Those three little words

by niamsagram

Summary:

Chenford + three different little words/phrases they use everyday

Notes:

I thought of this idea while writing another fic. This is going to be a multi chapter—it will be based on three word phrases.

I forgive you
I love you
I miss you.

It will be loosely related and it will all tie together. And I am starting off with the obvious. ‘I forgive you.’ I’m not sure how many chapters it will be so I will start out a a number and go from there.

This is also my 1000th fic. So thank you to everyone who has supported me and encouraged me to keep writing 🩷

Chapter 1: I forgive you

Summary:

Lucy utters an important phrase.

Notes:

This takes place between 7x11 + 7x12 (April Fool’s day)

[Verb. To forgive- stop feeling angry or resentful toward (someone) for an offense, flaw, or mistake.] 

***

“Tim?” Lucy says without looking up from the book that was in front of her. She hears him shift on the stool, and feels his eyes on her.

“Hmm?” He says. Lucy takes a deep breath and finally looks up. He’s watching her closely as if trying to figure out her next move.

Lucy opens her mouth to speak and then shuts it. She wants to tell him something, she wants to say the three words that she knows he’s been waiting for but he can’t quite get them out. 

“I—uh can we stop for the night?” She says deflating a little. Her shoulders fall and Tim turns on the stool to face her. He has concern written all over his face, and she hates that she’s the one that put it there. 

“Sure.” He says and he shuts the book in front of him. “Are you okay?” Lucy nods and shuts her own book. To be fair, they had been studying non stop for the last three hours. Lucy wanted to get in as much as possible.

“I’m just tired.” She says. Tim hums softly and stands up and offers his hand out to her. She takes it and he leads her over to the couch. They both sit down and Lucy instantly gravitates towards Tim. She lays her head on his chest and sighs softly. 

“That’s understandable.” Tim says. “But there’s something else bothering you.” Lucy blows out a breath and picks at some lint on his shirt. Tim knows her like the back of his hand, of course he would know something was wrong. 

The thing was there wasn’t anything wrong—not really. She wants to say the three words that were on. The tip of her tongue.

She did—

She just couldn’t get them out.

I forgive you. 

Why couldn’t she get those simple words out. 

“It’s just studying for a exam like this is a lot. And what if it’s all for nothing?” Lucy asks. “What if there’s an unknown force that will—”

“Stop.” Tim says. “You are going to pass Lucy and you are going to be an amazing sergeant.” 

“You are just saying that because you love me.” Lucy says before she can stop herself. Tim freezes and she looks up at him. She knows she’s not wrong. She loves him too—those were three other words she hasn’t said to him yet. 

“True.” He says. “But I’m not saying it just because of that. Im saying it because you deserve this and you have worked hard to get to where you are. And I can’t wait to see you grow as a sergeant.”

“Mmm.” Lucy hums softly cuddling more into Tim. “You have a lot confidence in me.”

“Of course I do.” He mutters. “I always have.” Lucy smiles to herself knowing that is true and Tim’s love and support has never wavered. 

Maybe he got lost for a little bit. Maybe he broke up with her because he thought she deserved better.

But she knows his love would never waver. It would never falter. Even if they were apart for some time.

“Thank you.” She says softly. Tim hums softly and presses a kiss to the top of her head. She has so much more to say to him. She just didn’t quite have the words yet. 

But she would—one day. 

***

Lucy looks up from her book and sees Tim’s eyes on her. She ducks her head down for a few seconds before she’s looking back at him.

“What?” 

“Nothing.” He says and then shakes his head. “You are going to be a great sergeant you know that right?”

“Why because I like bossing people around?” She asks teasingly. Tim rolls his eyes and reaches over to shut her book. She’s about to protest but he cuts her off with a kiss.

“Yes and you are a great cop. You are a great leader and you know how to lead and teach.” Tim says softly. 

“I didn’t do it with Ridley.” Lucy says shuddering a little. The memory of Seth flashing in her mind and it’s something she wants to forget. 

“Ridley is an outlier.” Tim says. “He was hopeless from the beginning but that’s not on you. He made it hard for himself. He chose to lie and take advantage of you.”

“Still.” Lucy says. “He was under my command and I-I didn’t see it.” Tim sighs softly and lifts her chin to look at him.

“It’s still not your fault Luce.” He says. “You gave him chance after chance.” Lucy sighs and turns away from Tim for a moment her eyes going to the book and then back to Tim. 

“Did you ever think I would fail? As a rookie?” She asks. Tim straightens up a bit and then scoots closer to her.

“No.”

“Not even once? Weren’t you about to wash me out?” She asks. She remembers her training with Tim quite well. She remembers it all even the parts she wants to forget. Because despite everything—he did help mold her into the cop she was today and she would forever be thankful for that. 

“Yes. But I didn’t actually want to. You-you were growing on me.” Tim says avoiding Lucy’s eyes. “You somehow worked your way into my life and as hesitant as I was.” He trails off, and Lucy gets a warm feeling deep inside of her. She always respected Tim no matter what but to know he believed in her back then. 

“Do you regret it? Training me?” She asks. “Don’t you wish you could have had Jackson or—”

“Do I regret you?” Tim asks. “Never. I wouldn’t change our story for anything. We hit a few rough patches but—”

“We made it through.” She finishes for him. He nods his head and tucks some hair behind her ear. 

“Do you regret it? Me?” He asks and he actually sounds nervous—like he really thinks Lucy will say yes. But she doesn’t regret him or anything that happened. Because it was their story. It was what made them—them.

“Never.” Lucy mutters and once again those three little words. The ones that would heal them, the one that would stitch the last broken part are on the tip of her tongue.

I forgive you. 

I forgive you. 

“That’s good.” Tim says. “I’m sorry for everything I put you through. I’m sorry for breaking your heart.”

“You don’t have to do this.” Lucy says feeling her heart pounding in her chest. “I know—”

“I do.” Tim says. “I put you through so much Lucy. I made you believe I didn’t want to be with you when—that’s all I want. I was so up in my head.”

“I know that Tim.” Lucy says gently. “Stop being so hard on yourself babe. You have been working hard and I have seen all the progress.” 

“I still hate what I did to you.” Tim says hanging his head a little. “That will never go away. At least for awhile.” 

Lucy swallows down all the words she wants to say including the ones she knows will heal Tim inside and out. And hopefully will make him stop regretting everything, hopefully it will make him want to move forward and not backwards.

“Well.” She says and she lifts his head up so he’s looking at him. “We are on our back right? You have stitched us back together.”

“I tried. I don’t ever want to live without you Lucy. My life is better when you are around.” He says. “It always has been.” 

“You are an amazing man Tim Bradford.” Lucy says sliding closer to him so she’s practically in his lap. He puts his arms around her and tightens his hold. 

“You are pretty amazing too.” He mutters. She sighs happily—she really didn’t think she would ever have this again. Ever. 

And especially with Tim but—

I forgive you. I forgive you. 

“Hey Tim?” She says softly because she will say those words. She’s getting closer and closer to saying them.

“Hmm?”

“Take me to bed.” She mutters and maybe it’s a risky move falling back into bed with Tim but—

Tim stands up and pulls her with him and doesn’t waste a second leading her back to the bedroom. 

Those words would come. And she would say them and it would be perfect. But for right now—

Tim’s lips find hers and he kicks the door shut. 

This was all she needed. 

***

“Tim.” Lucy says and she pokes at his shoulder. He’s lounging on the couch watching a rerun of a baseball game. The volume is low so she could focus on studying but— 

“What?” Tim says not taking his eyes off of the tv. “Do you need help?”

“No.” 

“Then what’s wrong?” Tim takes his eyes off the tv to look at her. She takes a deep breath and rolls back her shoulders.

“You know how I said I hadn’t completely forgiven you yet?” She asks. Tim raises his eyebrows and nods his head.

“Sure.”

“And you have been helping me study, and we— you know act like a couple.” She says. “At least when we are alone.”

“Sure.” Tim says again looking more and more confused. “Do you want to stop—”

“No!” She says quickly. “I just have something to tell you.” Tim doesn’t say anything at first but he turns turn his whole body to look at her.

“What?” 

“You mean everything to me and I appreciate how hard you have been working to get my trust back. I appreciate you.” Lucy says. “And I will forever be grateful for you.”

“Okay.” Tim says his face falling a little. “Where are you going with this Lucy?” Lucy takes another deep breath and then lets it out. She’s about to say three little words that will be the missing puzzle piece. 

“I forgive you.” She says and the smile that lights up Tim’s face she knows everything will be okay. They will be patched up and stitched back together. 

I forgive you. 

I forgive you. 

I forgive you. 

Notes:

Up next: three familiar words

Chapter 2: I love you

Summary:

Tim and Lucy say three familiar words.

Notes:

I am working on making a chapter index of each chapter with a short description of the chapter. It’s just to help you (and me) especially with the timeline. This takes place post 711 and on.

I hope you are enjoying! There’s more to come! 💙

[Noun. To love- an intense feeling of deep affection.]

***

Tim rolls over and reaches out for Lucy but he only gets an empty spot. He sits up and looks around but the bedroom is dark as well as the bathroom. Tim sighs and swings his legs out of bed. This happens often—he would wake up expecting Lucy to be next to him but she never was.   He makes his way to the kitchen and sees Lucy sitting at the counter with her books open in front of her.

“Luce.” Tim says softly walking up to her. “Why are you up?” Lucy doesn’t answer right away nor does she turn to face him. 

“I couldn’t sleep.” She finally says. “The test is in two days and I just need to study.”

Tim sighs softly and sits down next to her. He gently turns her around so she is facing him. “You need to take a break.” He says. “You have been studying for days. You are going to ace this exam.”

“You are only saying that because you love me.” She says and then freezes a little. Tim freezes too and he’s not quite sure what to say. Because he does love her, he tries to show her everyday just how much he loves her. He wants to say it out loud as well but they just got back on track. They just got back into the grove of things—he didn’t want to scare her off.

“I do.” He agrees and Lucy looks up at him vulnerability written all over her face. “But I also believe in you Luce. And I know without a doubt you are going to succeed.” 

Lucy’s jaw drops a little and she looks like she wants to say something. She looks like she wants to say those three little words back to him. 

 “Have I ever told you how much I appreciate you?” She asks leaning in closer to him so their noses brush. “Because I do.” 

“I know.” Tim says and he presses a kiss to her forehead and then her lips. “I know you do Luce.”

And maybe they couldn’t quite say the words right now but—they would.

One day.

***

“You know you don’t have to wait with me.” Lucy says. “Who knows when the results are going up.” Tim turns to look at her and he can tell that she’s stressed. He can tell that she’s been thinking of this moment all day. But there’s no place he would rather be than right here with Lucy. And he loves her and he would do anything to support her. 

“I know.” He says softly as Lucy starts to pace in front of him. He grabs her arm gently and pulls her to a stop. “But there’s no place I would rather be. You were there for me when I got my results.”

“Right.” Lucy says with a knowing glint in her eyes. “I was so proud of you.” Tim grins at her and steps back a little.

“You are going to pass.” He says. “And we are going to celebrate because you deserve that.”

“Oh?” Lucy says raising her eyebrows. He watches as her eyes goes towards Grey’s office and then back to him. “And what do you have planned?” 

“That’s a surprise.” He says although he knows exactly what he plans to do. He plans to take her out to dinner, and if they can even last that long he plans on taking her home. And celebrating her in his own way.

“And what if I don’t pass? All those celebration plans will go out the window.” She says and she starts pacing again. Tim stops himself from reaching out for her again. He knows the pressure of waiting for the exam results and he knows she was disappointed last time.

“You will pass Lucy.” He says. “Just take a deep breath.” Lucy doesn’t say anything and continues to pace in front of Tim. 

“Officer Chen!” A voice calls from across the station. Lucy stops pacing and Tim looks up too and sees Grey motioning them towards his office.

“Oh.” Lucy says and she hurries ahead of Tim. Tim follows behind her, and steps inside of a grey’s office just behind her.

“Officer Chen.” Grey says and then looks at Tim. “Sergeant Bradford.” 

“I want him here.” Lucy says and it takes everything in Tim to not reach out for her. Grey nods and he has a knowing look on his face like he didn’t expect anything less.

“Okay.” Grey says. “I have good news Officer Chen. The sergeant exam results are in.” Lucy turns to look at Tim who just gives her a soft smile.

“Yes sir.” Lucy says standing up straight. Grey looks between them and Tim has a feeling Grey knows there’s something more going on between them.

“You are number 5 out of 140.” Grey says. Tim turns to look at Lucy who has a stunned look on her face. 

“Number 5?” She says softly. “So I passed? I did it?” Grey nods and smiles at her and it’s a proud smile. 

“Congratulations Sergeant Chen.” He says. Lucy makes a soft noise before turning to look at Tim who is watching her in awe.

God he loves her.

He loves her so damn much. And he’s going to tell her that for the rest of his life. 

He’s going to make sure that he tells her because she deserves that just like she deserves to be sergeant.

“Thank you sir.” Lucy says. “I won’t let you down. I—” She turns to look at Tim who just gives her a soft smile. 

“I know.” Grey says. “I have a feeling I will have two of the best sergeants around. You deserve this sergeant Chen.” 

Lucy grins and Grey just gives them a nod. Tim turns around to leave the office first and hears Lucy behind him.

He leads her to the hallway—and then turns to face her with a big grin on his face. 

“Congratulations Sergeant Chen.” He says and he loves how naturally it rolls off his tongue. “I knew you could do it.” Lucy doesn’t say anything just stands on her toes to kiss him. 

“Thank you. Thank you for everything Tim.” She says and her voice shakes a little but she’s smiling. “I couldn’t have done this without you.”

“Of course.” He says. “You deserve this more than anyone Luce. I love you.” Lucy freezes and stares at him a little. 

“You love me?” She asks like she doesn’t quite believe it. Even though he knows deep down she knows it.

“Of course I do.” Tim says. “Don’t act so surprised.” Lucy shakes her head, a small smile on her face.

“I’m not surprised.” She says. “I just—” She pauses and he takes her hand pulling her into his old metro office. He shuts the door behind her and then turns to face her. She bites her lip nervously and then steps closer to him.

“You just what?” He asks. He honked this is a lot for her, getting her results and feeling the adrenaline from that.

“You have been so supportive of me. You never said if I pass only when I pass. You have been patient with me and I am so thankful for you.” She says putting a hand on his cheek. 

“I’m thankful for you too Luce.” He says. He takes her hand off his cheek and presses a kiss to it. “You have been so patient with me.”

Lucy sighs softly and presses her body against his and looks up at him with a smile. “I love you Tim. I’m sorry I didn’t say it before because you deserve to hear it.” 

Tim’s heart beats harder in his chest and he feels like he could float, he feels like he’s weightless and it’s the best feeling in the world. It feels like a second chance, it feels like they are going to make it this time. 

He knows it’s going to be different and he’s not going to walk away again because they have one thing stronger than anything.

Love. 

She loves him.

She loves him.

He loves her. 

He loves her.

“I love you too Lucy.” He says and she grins at him standing on her toes to kiss him. 

I love you. 

I love you. 

 

Notes:

Up next: Tim and Lucy struggle with being apart.

Chapter 3: I miss you

Summary:

Tim and Lucy adapt to her new schedule and they utter three more words.

Notes:

I hope you are enjoying this story so far 🩵

This one is a little longer 💙

[Verb. to miss someone. To feel sad that a person or a thing is not present] 

***

Lucy sighs as she shuffles the papers on the desk. She glances at her phone and taps the screen. 

9:48pm.

It was late and she was still at work, shuffling through paperwork and hoping a call came in. A few days after she had made sergeant, Grey had reluctantly told her that she would need to be on night duty at least for the first few months. And since she was the rookie sergeant she got the pleasure of being the night sergeant on duty.

She loves being sergeant—she loves being in charge and making the tough calls and she knew she would have to adjust to some changes but—

She misses Tim. She misses being able to walk through his door and he’s not getting ready to leave for work.

She misses seeing him around the station and giving him a smile that only he gets. She misses slipping into bed with him and getting as close to him as possible. 

She just misses him so much.

She taps her phone again and bites her lip before she’s opening her phone and tapping on his name. He answers on the first ring like she knew he would.

“Hey.” He says and she hears rustling of the covers on the other end of the line. “What’s up?” Lucy sighs and leans back in the chair, she was going to leave to go on patrol pretty soon but the station was empty and she has a feeling she would be getting much action tonight.

“Nothing.” She says blowing out a breath. “I’m just—you aren’t asleep yet?” Tim lets out a soft laugh, and Lucy smiles a little.

“I’m about to go to sleep.” Tim says. “But it’s hard to sleep when you aren’t next to me.” 

“Yeah.” Lucy says. She picks up a pen absentmindedly, and taps it on the paper in front of her. “I miss you.” 

“You saw me this morning Luce.” Tim says. “And a few hours ago.” Lucy sighs and drops her pen. It’s not the same. She would see Tim everyday before they started dating but—

“It’s not the same.” She tells him. “I miss you and I miss being on the same schedule as you seeing you for two seconds isn’t the same.” 

She hears Tim blow out a breath and she knows he feels the same way no matter the front he tries to put on. He tried to fight keeping her off night duty as much as he could. 

“I know Luce.” He says quietly. “I miss you too. Like I said I can’t sleep without you.” 

“I guess this is just part of being a rookie again huh?” Lucy asks. “I get the night shift and—”

“It’s only temporary Lucy.” Tim says and oh how she wishes she could be next to him. She could just feel him and smell him. “You will be back on the day shift before you know it. But until then—”

“We have to adapt.” Lucy finishes for him. “I know. It just sucks. We finally get back together and this huge thing happens.”

“I’m so proud of you.” He says. She smiles and leans back in her seat. She’s so grateful to have Tim by her side, her constant and steady supporter no matter what. The constant love and support that she always wanted but never got from her parents or anyone else. 

Until Tim. 

He never wavered from his support of her. He always told her she would pass and it was never if with him. It was always when—he never faltered from that. He was always by her side even when he was in bed and she was at work.

“I love you.” She says. “And I miss you. I know this is temporary but it still sucks.” Tim hums quietly and she hears more rustling.

“Are you going on patrol soon?” Tim asks. Lucy looks around and then stands up pushing the chair in. 

“Yes.” She says. “Hopefully there’s some action.” Tim chuckles and she smiles as she walks to get the war bags. 

“Just be safe Lucy.” He says and she hears the hint of worry in his voice. “Once you are on the road you will forget you miss me.”

“I don’t think that’s possible.” Lucy says. “But I do need some distractions.” Tim hums again and Lucy feels herself lighten up a bit. 

She could do this. 

She could do this. 

“I love you Lucy.” He says. “Just stay safe okay? I will see you in the morning.” Lucy sighs and she doesn’t want to hang up with him. There was something about having Tim’s voice in her ear that brought her comfort.

“Yeah see you in the morning babe.” She says. “Sleep tight.” She hears Tim laugh a little and then the call ends.

She could do this.

She could do this.

***

Tim: Meet me at the food trucks 

Lucy: Now? 

Tim: Yes.

Lucy sighs and looks around but like every other night the station is empty and quiet. She gets up and heads outside towards the food trucks. It’s dark and the only light is the dim street lights in the distance. She looks around and sees Tim sitting at a table with a brown bag in front of him. She makes her ways towards him feeling a little pep in her step as she gets closer.

“Hey.” She says. Tim looks up and smiles at her. He motions her to sit down in the chair across from him. She does and then waits for him to explain what’s going on.

“How’s your night going?” He asks leaning forward. She shrugs her shoulders, she went out for a little bit made an arrest and then came back to do paperwork. 

“It’s fine.” She says. “What’s going on? Why are you here?” Tim leans forward some more and pushes the bag towards her.

“I brought you lunch. Or dinner.” He says. “I thought you could use the company.” 

“Tim, it’s almost midnight.” She says but he just shrugs. “You should be in bed.” 

“I told you.” He says. “I can’t sleep without you next to me. And I miss you.” 

“Mmm.” Lucy hums pulling the bag closer and pulling out the contents inside. “I miss you too.” She pulls out what looks like a veggie burger and fries. 

“Oh you are the sweetest.” She says. “You drove all the way here just to give me this?” Tim nods and leans back in his seat. 

“Yes.” 

“I love you.” She says. She puts the burger down and leans across the table to give him a kiss. “Thank you.” 

“Of course.” He says. “I’m sorry you are stuck on the night shift Luce but it will get better.”

“I know.” She mutters and she sits back down and takes a bite of her burger. She feels Tim’s eyes on her as she eats but she doesn’t mind. 

She has the man she loves in front of her, and she has a good job. And for the first time in a long time. 

She’s happy. 

And for right now she’s okay with that. 

***

“This isn’t a good idea.” Lucy mutters to Tim. Tim just looks down at her and grins a little. He has found himself missing Lucy like he did every night she was working and got in his truck and drove to the station. He found her and then dragged her to his old metro office and well—

“Maybe not.” He mutters against her lips. “But I really miss you and talking on the phone isn’t enough.” 

“Mmm. I miss you too babe.” She says and he captures her lips again pulling her close. He knows they don’t have a lot of time. He knows Lucy is at work and she should be working but he can’t help it. This is the longest he has seen her in weeks and just to be with her for a little bit is better than nothing. 

“When you get off the night shift—we are going to have 24 hours just you and me.” He says. Lucy raises her eyebrows looking amused.

“Really?”

“Yes.” Tim says and he already has this planned out in his head. “Just you and me. No interruptions. No work stress.” 

A smile twitches on her lips and she leans forward. “That sounds perfect Tim.” She says. “I can’t wait.”

Tim smiles and he’s not sure how much longer Lucy will be on the night shift. He’s not sure how much longer he can go without her at night. 

“That sounds perfect Tim.” She says smiling at him. “Thank you for my dinner and coming here tonight.” 

“You’re welcome.” Tim says. And he would do this every night if he could—if it meant seeing Lucy and making her happy.

Lucy stands up and walks over to him, she bends down and gives him a kiss. “I have to go but I will see you later?”

“Yeah.” Tim stands up too and gathers her in his arms. He doesn’t want to leave her yet but he knows he has to let her go. “Be safe.” 

“I love you.” Lucy says and he reluctantly lets her go. “Go to sleep when you get home okay?” Tim nods and gives her another kiss. 

“Bye Luce.” He says. Lucy gives him another kiss and then she gathers her garbage and walks off. 

He sighs softly but turns around to go to his truck. He might not be able get a lot of sleep tonight but at least he got to see Lucy. 

And that he could live with. 

***

Tim wakes up to his phone buzzing next to him. He blindly reaches for it and answers it without looking to see who it is.

“Hello?”

“I’m calling for Tim Bradford.” A female voice says over the phone. Tim sits up a little and pulls the phone away to check the time.

2:45am  

“This is Tim Bradford.” He says. There is a sigh of the phone and Tim sits up even more. 

“I’m calling from St. Stephen’s hospital.” The woman says. “You are on Lucy Chen’s emergency contact list.”

“What happened?” Tim asks scrambling out of bed. “Is she okay?” He feels his heart pounding in his chest. 

“She just got into a accident.” The woman says. “Minor injuries but we do need someone to come pick her up and you were the first name.”

Tim is already out of his bedroom and slipping on his shoes. He grabs his keys and wallet and heads out the door.

“I’m on my way.” He says. “Can you tell her I’m on my way.” 

“Of course.” The woman says. “We will see you soon.” Tim hands up and climbs into his truck. He hates this—he hates that Lucy got hurt and he wasn’t there to help her. He hates that she’s in the hospital for any reason. 

He just wants to get to her. He just wants to see her and see that she’s okay for himself. It’s bad enough they barely see each other. He misses her beyond measure.

Tim gets to the hospital in 15 minutes and as soon as he’s through the doors a nurse is leading him to Lucy’s bed. She looks up when he steps inside the room.

“Hi.” She mutters as he walks closer and then he’s bending down to hug her. “You came.”

“Of course I did.” Tim mutters. “What happened?” Lucy blows out a breath as Tim pulls back.

“I was chasing a suspect.” Lucy says rubbing her arm a little. “And he ran me off the road. The shop flipped and I was trapped for a little bit.” 

“Son of a bitch.” Tim mumbles. “Was he caught?” Lucy nods and Tim blows out a breath of relief. 

“He ran himself off the road.” She says. “I was just about to call you and then I realized what time it was.”

“I would have picked up.” He says. Lucy smiles at him and looks down at the blankets on the bed.

“Does it get any easier?” She asks. “Being away from the person you love. I just miss you Tim and you are so close but I—”

“I know baby.” He says because he feels the same way. He has Lucy back and it’s not like when they were broken up. She is his again fully and completely but—she’s still gone. And he still misses her.

“I miss you too.” He says. “But this is not forever. We will be back on the same schedule soon.” Lucy nods and leans into him. Tim sits on the edge of the bed, and pulls her close. It’s not perfect, and they were still figuring out their schedules. They were still figuring themselves out as well. 

But for right now this was everything he needed.  

***

“Hey.” Lucy says over the phone. She comes to a stop a red light. “You are still up?”

“I’m about to go to bed.” Tim replies. “Just wanted to say goodnight.” Lucy’s heart flutters in her chest. This man—her man who would do anything for her. Who loved her beyond measure even when they were constantly missing each other.

“You are sweet.” She says and she takes her foot off the brake as the light turns green. “I miss you.” 

“I miss you too.” Tim says and Lucy realizes it might never get easier. “How much longer did Grey say?”

“Two weeks if I’m lucky.” Lucy says. “But I’m pretty confident it will be over soon.” 

“Me too baby.” Tim says and she hears him yawn. “I can’t wait for that day. Remember we need to celebrate.”

“How could I forget.” Lucy says smiling to herself. “And I do believe I owe you.”

“You do.” Tim confirms. “I’m looking forward to it.” 

“Good.” Lucy says and she turns on her blinker. “I love and miss you. I will talk to you later.” 

“I love you too. Have a good shift.” Tim says. “Please stay safe.” 

“Of course.” She says. “Bye Tim.” Tim mutters a goodbye and she hangs up. Just two more weeks. She could do this. She could do this. 

Two more weeks. I miss you. 

Two more weeks. I miss you. 

Two more weeks. I miss you.

Notes:

Up next: A celebration and a debt is owed.

Chapter 4: I owe you

Summary:

‼️Chapter RATED M! For sex and smut and everything in between!‼️

Lucy owes Tim and they have a whole 24 hours to themselves

Notes:

‼️RATED M!For sex and smut and everything in between!‼️

I had to change the rating. I’m not sure if this will be the only smut chapter or not but enjoy!

[verb. Owe. to need to pay or give something to someone because they have lent money to you, or in exchange for something they have done for you.]

***

“Congratulations Sergeant Chen you are officially off the night shift.” Grey says. “Thank you for taking one for the team.”

“Of course sir.” Lucy says and she looks over at Tim who is trying to keep a neutral expression on his face. “Happy to do it but I’m glad I am done with it.”

“Take a day off.” Grey says. “You deserve it.” Lucy bites her lip and looks over at Tim who is still trying not to smile. 

“Thank you sir.” Lucy says. Grey nods and Lucy turns to leave but Tim’s voice stops her.

“Sir.” Tim says. “I’m taking a personal day tomorrow.” Lucy stares at him in wonder, in awe because she knows exactly what he has planned.

“You are?” Grey says looking between them. “That would mean both of my sergeant’s would be out.” 

“One day sir.” Tim says. Grey sighs but finally nods his head  small smile appearing on his face.

“Fine.” He says. “Go. I will see you both in two days.” Lucy nods and follows Tim out of the office.

“You are sneaky Bradford.” Lucy says when they are out of earshot. Tim hums softly, and pulls her to the side. 

“Let me finish up and then we will go home.” Tim says. “Wait for me?” Lucy nods and watches him hurry off. She had come in for her shift just as Tim was finishing up and Grey had called her into his office.

And now she was free of the night shift.

And she was going home with Tim.

Tim emerges again this time in plain clothes and she grins at him. “So what do you have planned for tonight?” She asks. 

“Well.” Tim says as they exit the station. “Dinner. And I believe you owe me.” Lucy pauses and pulls him to a stop.

“You are still on that?” She asks teasingly just to rile Tim up. Tim rolls his eyes at her, pulling her closer.

“I helped you host a very awkward and disastrous dinner party.” He says. “Or did you forget?” 

“Wow Tim.” She says standing on her toes to kiss him and then she pulls back. “Are you just using me to get that physical intimacy.” 

Tim rolls his eyes again and takes her hand leading her to her car. She stands in front of it looking up at him.

“No.” He says. “Meet me at my house in twenty minutes?” Lucy nods and opens her car door and pauses before getting in. 

“You know I love you right?” She asks Tim. A small smile lights up Tim’s face and he leans in to give her one last kiss.

“Absolutely.” He says. “I love you too.” 

***

Lucy beats Tim to his house but she has a key and lets herself in. She puts all her stuff down and looks around. She loves Tim’s house because even before she started staying here all the time it just felt like home.

It felt like it was exactly where she was suppose to be.  

And maybe it was because of the person living here—maybe it was because Tim always made her feel safe and wanted no matter what. 

It was even better now that they were officially back together. She didn’t have to worry about showing up at his house wondering if he would let her in. Now she could make herself at home and think about the next 24 hours.

And she does owe him after all. She grins a little to herself when she hears the door opening. She turns to see Tim carrying two plastic bags. 

“Hey.” She says going over to greet him. “You got dinner.” Tim hums softly as she takes a bag from him.

“I did.” He says. “This is the first time in two months that we can sit down and eat and not worry about work.” 

“I like the way you think.” She says as she goes to sit down at the table. “I owe you.” Tim just grins at her as he goes to sit down next to her.

“Yeah you do.” He says. “But there’s plenty of time for that. Right now you need to eat.” Lucy hums softly and pulls out the food containers. It’s from her favorite Chinese restaurant, and her mouth practically waters as she takes it all out. 

He really does know her. 

“This is nice.” Lucy says leaning back against the sofa. “Not being at work. And being able to enjoy my dinner.” Tim hums softly as he leans back too.

“I’m just glad you are off the night shift. I didn’t like not seeing you at work.” He says. Lucy hums in agreement and takes a bite of her food. There’s a long stretch of silence where they are just eating. But it’s comfortable and there’s no tension in the air. She loves that it’s just her and Tim now.

“So.” She says putting her container aside. “What now?” Tim puts his down as well and pulls her into his side. 

“We have 24 hours to do nothing.” He says. “We can do whatever you want to do baby.” Lucy sighs happily and rolls over so she can climb into his lap. 

“You.” She says cupping his face in her hands. “You are at the top of my do list.” 

“Good to know.” He says pulling her into for a kiss. “Because we are on the same page.” She giggles and she can’t believe how happy Tim makes her. Even after being apart for months and even after having to restrain themselves she still feels the same away about him.

Completely and utterly in love with him.

“I owe you.” She reminds him. He grins and she slides off his lap. She holds out her hand and pulls him up. “I love you.” 

Tim takes over and leads her to the bedroom never taking his eyes off of her. “It’s just you and me Luce.” He says his voice low and sexy. Her skin stands up a little on her arms. He knows exactly how to turn her on. 

“Just you and me.” She says tugging at his shirt. He pulls it off and throws it aside and then does the same with her.

“How did we go this long without doing this?” Lucy asks as his lips find her neck. Tim mumbles something she can’t understand and then she’s falling onto the bed and he’s crawling up in between her legs.

“I missed you.” He says tugging on her leggings. He pulls them off and then hovers over her. “Every single day we were apart. And you—what we did on Valentine’s day. It was the first time I felt like everything was going to be okay.”

“Really?” Lucy asks staring up at him. Tim nods as she reaches for his belt and then pauses. “Is that why you wanted to talk and I just—”

“I don’t blame you. I understand it was a rash decision both of us made.” He says. “I don’t regret it.”

“Neither do I.” Lucy says. “It was just so surreal being with you in that way.” Tim nods a look of understanding on his face. 

“I thought I messed everything up because you said it was just Valentine’s Day ex sex.” He says and Lucy looks away from him for a few moments. The truth was in the moment she panicked. She didn’t know what to do or say. She didn’t want to mess anything up even more. 

And she’s the one who started it—she hates that Tim blames himself.

“You didn’t mess anything up Tim.” She says softly reaching up to touch his cheek. “We both did it. We both participated. And neither of us regret it.”

“True.” Tim mutters swooping down to kiss her. “I just wish I said more. It was more than just ex sex to me.”

“It meant something to me too.” She says. “I just was in the moment. I didn’t know what to say.” Tim smiles down at her. He keeps his eyes on her as he finishes taking off his pants and tossing them aside. 

“And now how do you feel?” Tim asks her. He’s still hovering above her, and she can’t wait to feel him inside of her. 

“I love you.” She says confidently. “I’m in love with you and this isn’t a one time thing.” Tim smiles down and lowers himself on top of her. 

“I love you too Lucy.” He says reaching and down and pulling at her underwear. “It’s you and me.”

Lucy sighs happily feeling his fingers brush on the inside of her thigh. 

Oh how she missed this.

She didn’t just miss Tim but she missed this physical intimacy of being with him. She tugs down his boxers and he doesn’t waste a minute sliding inside of her. She groans her fingers digging into his skin as he lowers himself down. 

“Fuck.” She mutters as he starts moving inside of her. Tim grins but continues to move kissing her up and down her body.

She moans in pleasure because even though this is an old dance they are doing—but she will never get tired of it. She moves herself in rhythm with Tim, as he has his lips everywhere he can reach.

“God I love you.” He mutters into her skin. “And I’m so proud of you.” Lucy moans a little as he hits a sensitive spot.

“I love you too.” She mutters a little breathless. “I’m  so glad that I owed you.” Tim laughs sucking lightly on her skin.

“This would have happened either way baby.” He mutters. “I’m kind of in love with you.” Lucy sighs happily as he continues to move inside of her. She doesn’t know how much longer she will last but it doesn’t matter.

She’s with Tim and that is all that matters. 

She feels Tim slowing down and she knows this won’t be their last time for the night. They have a lot to make up for and she’s going to make sure they do make up for it.

Tim reaches down to rub her clit, and then leans down to whisper in her ear. She feels a little dizzy and like she’s on another planet as she falls over the edge. She comes with a shout of his name. 

She helps him find his own release and then he’s pulling out and flopping down next to her. He pulls her in and he smells like sweat, sex and her. She nuzzles into him feeling completely at peace.

“We are definitely doing that again.” He mutters into her neck. “You owe me.” Lucy rolls her eyes but she can’t help but smile. 

“You are right.” She whispers and slots her leg between his. “I owe you.” Tim grins at her and kisses her nice and slow. And she realizes there is no place she would rather be than right here in Tim’s arms.

***

Lucy wakes up to an empty spot next to her. It’s cold to the touch like he hadn’t been there for awhile. She sighs softly and grabs Tim’s shirt off the floor before tip toeing out of the bedroom. She finds Tim in the kitchen with pots and pans and food all around him.

“What are you doing?” She asks. He turns around and smiles when he sees her. He still looks sleepy, his hair isn’t perfect and his pants are hanging low.

“Making you breakfast.” He says. “You are going to need that fuel for later.” Lucy walks towards him and wraps herself around him.

“It’s five in the morning Tim.” She mutters. Tim gives her a look and she presses a kiss to his chest.

“Right. I forgot who I was talking to.” She says. “Well thank you.” Tim hums softly and untangles himself from her.

“It’s almost ready.” He says. “Just have to finish up a few more things.” Lucy watches him as he flips the pancakes and then moves over to finish the eggs.

“You are the sweetest.” Lucy says leaning against the counter. Tim looks over at her and grins a little.

“You deserve this.” He says. “I know it’s been a crazy few months with not seeing one another.” 

“Mmm.” Lucy says and she heads back over to him. “We deserve this break. You deserve it. You went through a lot too.” 

Tim pauses to look over at her, and the walks over to her pressing a kiss to the top of her head. “This is our fresh start Luce.” He says. “You and me. We got this. Together.” 

“Together.” She agrees and she feels a rush of warmth and joy. 

“Go sit.” He says. “Breakfast is almost ready.” Lucy shakes her head and goes to sit down at the counter. 

It might be a little too early for breakfast and they would probably find themselves back in bed after this but—

She smiles as Tim puts down a plate of food in front of her. 

But for now—

This was absolutely perfect. 

***

“Trashy tv or that new true crime documentary I have been waiting to watch?” Lucy asks as she sits down next to Tim. Tim looks over at her and then back at the tv. It was now later morning and after breakfast they had gone back to bed. And then woken up and showered and now—

“Why not both?” Tim asks. Lucy scoots closer to him and he pulls her in. “We have all day.” 

“Mmm.” Lucy hums. Tim presses a kiss to the top of her head, and then turns on the tv. Lucy curls up more into him and he never wants this to end. He never wants to get away from this cocoon of warmth. 

Tim puts on some trashy reality show that he probably won’t pay attention to. He is just soaking in the moment knowing it won’t last forever.

“You are so warm.” Lucy mutters. Tim smiles to himself and pulls her even closer. “I want to stay like this forever.” 

“Me too.” Tim mutters feeling happier than he has in a long time. “Me too.” 

***

“Twenty four hours is not enough.” Tim says to Lucy when she walks into the room. She is once again in just his shirt like she was this morning. Tim had thrown in a few loads of laundry but she told him she still preferred to wear his shirt and he didn’t mind one bit.

“I agree.” Lucy says sliding into the bed and rolling over so she’s facing him. “But today was nice.” Tim nods and pulls her closer—it was nice. They had lunch, watched tv and then didn’t watch tv because they were so focused on each other.

“It was nice.” He agrees. “Your debt is paid by the way. Until next time.” Lucy rolls her eyes at him but there’s a smile on her face.

“I liked owing you.” She says. “I would do it again by the way.” 

“Good to know.” He mutters into her hair feeling completely at peace. He knows moments and days like these were rare. 

But he was so grateful he could spend it with the woman he loves more than anything. 

Because despite all the highs and lows, despite everything he knows they would get through anything together.

Together. 

Just him and Lucy.

And this all started with an I owe you and he wouldn’t have it any other way. 

Notes:

Up next: Changes happen both in themselves & in their everyday life and they realize it’s okay.

Chapter 5: Change is good

Summary:

Tim and Lucy go through some changes in their personal lives, on the job and with them selves.

Notes:

⚠️CW: Mention of child abuse.⚠️

This is a little shorter as the last two chapters were monster of chapters (2k+ each). I didn’t know where I was going with this chapter but I liked how it turned out.

Anyway I hope you are enjoying this story :)

[Change in all things is sweet - Aristotle]

***

“Sergeant Chen why don’t you come up and do roll call?” Grey says. Lucy looks over at Tim who just gives her a small shrug of his shoulders. This was her first day back on her normal schedule. Tim had told her that she might do roll call one of these days. 

Lucy stands up and walks to the front and Tim leans forward watching her closely. She looks like she’s confident, she looks like she knows what she’s doing but he knows how everything could get to her head.

Lucy reaches the front of the room, and turns to face everyone. She keeps her eyes on him for a few seconds before scanning the room.

“Last night there was a rash of break ins downtown.” She says. “We need patrol to be down today. We think the suspects are casing it out in the day time so they can break in at night.” Tim smiles and leans back in his seat. 

“Officer Penn and Sergeant Bradford.” Lucy continues. Tim glances over at his rookie who is watching Lucy closely. “You take the west side and Officer Juarez and I will take the east side.”

“Yes ma’am.” Miles says and he glances over at Tim who just gives him a short nod.  

It was a nice change to not have to be up there ordering people around. He knows Lucy likes to be in charge, and she is good at it.

“Okay dismissed.” Lucy says as everyone gets up. Tim stands seated for a few minutes before Lucy is making her way towards him.

“How did I do?” She asks. “Was I too bossy?” Tim rolls his eyes and stands up resisting the urge to reach out for her. 

And he was right 24 hours alone with Lucy would never be enough. 

“You know you like bossing people around.” Tim says teasingly. Lucy raises her hand and then drops it to her side. 

“And you like it.” She says. He rolls his eyes but she’s not wrong, he loves when she takes charge. He loves seeing her in charge and he knows she’s going to a good job as a sergeant. 

“Absolutely Sergeant Chen.” He says. “It was a nice change not being up there.” Lucy smiles at him, and opens her mouth to say something else but Celina clears her throat behind her. 

“We better get going.” Lucy says. “Duty calls. Have a good shift Sergeant Bradford.” Tim gives her a small nod. 

“You too Sergeant Chen.” He says. Lucy gives him a soft smile before she’s leaving the roll call room. It’s going to be weird to not work directly side by side with Lucy anymore. He’s so used to being able to ride with her. He’s so going to miss but it’s not like they won’t run into each other. So maybe just maybe—

This change is good. 

***

“We need a change.” Lucy says suddenly. Tim looks over at her a little confused. 

“What do you mean?” He asks. “What kind of change?” Lucy looks around the restaurant—her favorite sushi restaurant in her neighborhood. It was the one they always came to when they didn’t have anywhere else to go. 

“We need to change up date night.” She says and then reaches for his hands and squeezes them. “I love our date nights. But we always end up at this restaurant.” 

“I thought you liked it.” Tim says furrowing his eyebrows at her. “This is your favorite place right? Unless it’s changed and—”

“No. No.” Lucy says still holding onto his hands. “I love it and I love you but I need something different.”

“Like what?” Tim asks because he would do anything for Lucy. He would do anything to keep her happy and by his side.

“I don’t know.” She says. “It just seems like we always try to change it up but end up here.” Tim tilts his head at her, and well she’s not wrong. It just seems like this was the easiest place to get to and order at it. It was low key and it never disappointed.

“There’s this new Chinese place around the corner.” Tim says. Lucy perks up immediately a smile appearing on her face. “We could check it out and there’s a ice cream place next door to it.”  

Lucy stands up and leans over to kiss him. “You know me so well.” She mutters against his lips. “That sounds perfect.” 

Tim nods and stands up, Lucy does the same and luckily they hadn’t ordered yet. They walk out of the restaurant hand in hand.

“Change is good.” Lucy says as they walk down the street. “For both of us.” Tim looks over at her, and pulls her to a stop.

“I agree.” He says. “Sometimes we both need it.” Lucy nods and they continue walking still holding hands.

“We have gone through a lot of changes recently.” Lucy says. “My job, our relationship.” She pauses and he looks at her curiously. 

“Is that a bad thing?” He asks. “I thought we were doing pretty good.” Lucy nods as the pause in front of the restaurant doors.  

“It’s not a bad thing at all.” She says. “I’m proud of us for making the changes.” Tim smiles at her before he’s bending down to kiss her. She soaks it in because if there is one thing that hasn’t changed, and would never change is her love for Tim. 

“I love you.” She says softly looking up at him. “That will never change.” He smiles down at her, and takes her hand again. 

“Good.” He says and he opens the door and pulls her through. She keeps her hand in his as they enter the restaurant and approach the podium. “Because I love you too and that will never change.” 

Change is good. It’s very good and she knows they have a lot more change in the future. 

But one thing will always remain the same—unwavering, and steady.

Their love for one another. And really that’s all that matters.

***

“You better not shut me out again.” Tim hears Lucy say. “Not again.” Tim looks up to see her standing in front of him. She looks frustrated but concerned all in one. And he realizes she has been talking and he has just been sitting there. His mind was fuzzy, and he was trying to block out all the noise.

“I’m not shutting you out.” He mutters. “Just thinking.” He hears Lucy sigh and feels the sofa move a little bit. 

“Tim.” She says slowly and cautiously. “I don’t want to push you but you disappeared and now you are back and haven’t said a word.” Tim closes his eyes and then opens finally turning to look at Lucy. She still has concern on her face but it’s softer like she’s trying to understand. 

And she’s not wrong—he did disappear for a few hours after work the day before. He didn’t call or tell Lucy where he was going. 

He just disappeared like last time. Lucy had tried to call but like last time he didn’t reply and it’s not like he was trying to keep her out. 

He just needed to think. 

But he hates that he made her worried and frustrated. He hates that all the work he has put in, all the changes he has made has resorted to going right back to where he was before.

“I just needed to think.” He says. “It was a tough case.” Lucy hums softly and reaches for his hands and gives them a squeeze. 

“I know.” 

“I didn’t want to disappear or shut you out. That’s the last thing I wanted to do.” Tim says. “I just needed to think.” 

Lucy hums sympathetically before scooting closer to him. “You have grown and changed so much Tim. Not in a bad way.” She says. “It’s not going to be perfect all the time and you will mess up but then you keep going. You pick yourself up and keep going.” 

“I know.” Tim says sucking in a breath. “I get too in my head sometimes.” Lucy hums and rubs his arm up and down and then lays her head down on his shoulder.

“Then I will be here to help you through whatever it is. But I can’t help you if you don’t talk to me.” She says. “You have done so good Tim.”

“The case,” Tim says. “It was this family—the dad was a piece of work. Abusive. A drunk and there was a little boy.” He swallows thinking of the young boy’s face, him pleading with his dad to stop. He thinks of the little boy who reminded him so much of himself that it caused him to take a step back.

“Oh Tim,” Lucy mutters. She lifts her head to look at him and he swallows again and continues.

“The little boy—he was so desperate to get out but he didn’t want to upset his dad.” Tim says. “We got him out and he’s safe but—”

“He reminded you of you.” Lucy says softly. Tim nods his head feeling like his heart was going to beat out of his chest.

“Yes.” Tim says. “I didn’t have anyone to get me out not until I left on my own.” He watches as tears fill Lucy’s eyes and she lays her head back down. 

“You did get out.” She mutters and he runs his fingers through her hair. “You did get out and you got help.”

“I pushed it all down.” He says. “Isabel. My dad. The army. I never talked about it. I just pushed it aside. And I punished myself because of it. I lost you because I thought I needed to be punished.”

“I know.” Lucy says her voice shaky. “But you don’t need to punish yourself anymore Tim. You have changed and you are changing. And I’m so proud of you.”

“You helped me.” He says and it’s true because despite everything. Despite pushing her away—Lucy was always there right next to him. 

“I will continue to help you.” She says. “You deserve to be happy Tim. You deserve peace and I want you to have that.” Tim presses a kiss to the top of her head, and she sighs happily. 

“Thank you.” He says because he has so much to say to her. So much gratitude for her.

“Of course.” Lucy says softly. “I’m so proud of you. You have come so far.” 

“Change is good.” Tim says softly. Lucy smiles at him and pulls him down for a kiss. 

“I agree.” She mutters. “We will get through this Tim. Whatever you need.” 

“I know.” He says and it’s true—through hell or high waters he knows he will get through this. He knows whatever changes happen, they will get through them. They will do it together because change is good, change is sweet. And with Lucy by his side that’s all he could ever ask for. 

Change is good.

Change is good. 

Notes:

Up next: Tim & Lucy realize what they want.

Chapter 6: I want you

Summary:

Tim & Lucy realize what they want in more ways than one.

Notes:

I hope you enjoy! This one is a little shorter but next chapter is exciting! 😌🫶🏻

[I want you, I need you, oh God]

***

“I want you.” Lucy says as soon as she steps through the door. Tim looks up from where he’s sitting on the couch and tilts his head at her. 

“What?” 

“I want you.” She repeats stepping into the living room. “Now.” She makes her way towards him, and he stands up meeting her in the middle.

“What brought this on?” He asks. She steps towards him and tilts her chin to look up at him. 

“I ran into someone.” She says shuddering a little. She ran into someone she never thought she would again. Someone who she thought was completely in the past.

Chris Sanford.

She had been coming out of the courthouse after a long day and wasn’t paying attention to where she was going and ran into him.

Literally. 

“Someone?” Tim questions. “Who exactly?” He looks a little nervous but Lucy gives him a kiss to reassure him.

“Chris.” 

“Sanford?” Tim asks looking aghast. “He’s still around?” Lucy snorts and grins at him a little. She knows Tim wasn’t Chris’s biggest fan. He’s the one that told her to break up with and how to break up with him.

“Apparently.” Lucy says. “He just started talking to me and I don’t know if it was out of pettiness or he was still hurt from the breakup but—”

“What?”

“I guess he wanted to show me how good his life was. Good job, steady girlfriend. It made me realize that I just want you. I want us. And no matter what happens it will always be you and me.” 

Tim stares at her looking a little perplexed. “That was just from seeing your ex boyfriend?” He asks. She hits him on the arm, and rolls her eyes to the ceiling and then looks back at him. 

“No.” She says. “Okay maybe but the point is Tim I only want you and I will only ever want you.” 

“I’m glad.” Tim says although he still looks a little bewildered. “I want you too.” Lucy lets out a soft sigh and he pulls her into him. 

“Good. I’m glad we are on the same page.” He says pressing a kiss to the top of her head. Lucy lets out a breath and holds onto Tim. It’s not like she doubted that Tim wanted this, she knows he does and he’s not going to walk away again. But it is nice to hear it out loud, it is nice to know she’s not going to have to lose him again. 

“Yeah.” She says softly and she knows it’s always been Tim and it always would be Tim. 

Always.

“Me too. Me too.”

***

“You are so annoying.” Lucy grumbles at Tim who just grins at her and pulls her into his side and presses a kiss to the top of her head. They are laying in bed, completely worn out after a long day. 

“You love me.” He says a teasing lilt to his voice. “You can’t take that back.” Lucy rolls her eyes at him.

“God only knows why.” She says but she curls more into his side. “But yes I love you.” Tim hum softly and presses another kiss to the top of her head. It’s so subtle and sweet—she feels like she can’t breathe sometimes. 

Tim is everything she wants and more. He’s the first thing she wants to see when she wakes up and the last thing when she falls asleep. 

“Good.” Tim says and he wraps his arm around her middle. Lucy hums softly and he might be infuriating but he’s the best thing that has ever happened to her. 

Through the good and bad.

“I want this.” Lucy says softly. She turns around in his arms and finds him looking down at her. She reaches up to put a hand on his cheek. 

“Want what?” Tim questions her. He covers her hand with his own and his eyes are sparkling. 

“You.” She says and it’s not the first time she has told him this but she just wants him to know that she’s all in. “Us. This.” She gestures between them and their nearly intertwined bodies.

“I do too.” He says and a pressure in her chest that she didn’t realize was there released. 

“You want all of it?” She asks. “The good, the bad, the simple.”

“All of it.” He confirms. “I will tell you this everyday if I have to Lucy but I’m in it for the long haul. I’m not leaving or walking away. I love you. I want you.”

Lucy chews on her bottom lip and then rolls over so she’s hovering above him. “I want you too.” She says but she lowers her voice and looks down at him. He seems to get it because he just gives her a soft smile and she swoops down to kiss him.

And it might not always be perfect but she has Tim for the long run and that’s all that matters.

***

“God Lucy.” Tim says as he approaches her. She’s standing still and a little hunch over but she seems to be fine. There’s a cut across her face, and her hands are shaking slightly as he pulls her into his arms. “What the hell happened?”

Lucy doesn’t answer right away, her hands still shaking as she pushes back from him and doesn’t look him in the eyes. “A lot.” She says. “Long story short we got the bad guy.”

“And you—” He pauses thinking of Lucy calling him telling him she was at the hospital. She didn’t say why but she sounded like she needed him. And he would always come when she called.

“I’m fine.” She says softly. He eyes the cut on her cheek and she must know because she gives him a small smile. 

“It’s not as bad as it looks.” She reassures him. “Not deep at all. No stitches.” Tim breathes a sigh of relief.

“Thank god.” He says. “What do you need me to do?” She looks away from him and then a few seconds later looks at him.

“I want you to take me home so I can forget this day even happened.” She says. Tim studies her for a second and then wraps his arms around her shoulders. 

“Okay.” He says and he starts walking her out of the hospital. “I can do that.” Lucy just cuddles into his side. And he’s not sure how he can make this better for her but he’s going to try. 

She wants him.

He wants her. 

And that he could live with.

***

“Tim!” Lucy giggles when she sees him. “Hi!” Tim looks at her in amusement as she approaches the front porch of his house. 

“Hi.” He says stepping closer to her and pulling her in. “Are you drunk?” Lucy snorts and shakes her head reaching out for him.

“No.” She says sounding almost indignant. “I’m tipsy.” Tim rolls his eyes at her. It had been a rare night where she could go out with Angela, Celina and Nyla. It didn’t happen often with their schedules and Tim encouraged her to go.

“Is there a difference?” He asks. She hits him on the arm and then smirks at him. 

“Doesn’t matter. I want you.” She says and she tries to pull up his shirt. Tim stops her and takes her hand leading her into the house.

“You are drunk.” He says. Lucy tuts at him, and she tries to pull up his shirt once again. 

“Tipsy.” She corrects him. “And I want you. Don’t you want me?” Tim shakes his head a little at the absurdity of the question. He always wants Lucy, ever second and every minute of the day.

“Always.” He says trying to keep his voice level. “But I want you to have a clear mind.” Lucy’s eyes instantly fill with tears and she clings on to Tim even harder. 

“You are so sweet.” She mutters. “And you suck because it makes me want you more.”  Tim lets out a soft laugh, and pulls her further into the house and towards his bedroom.

“I’m glad you want me baby.” He mutters. “Even when you are dru—tipsy.” He corrects himself when he sees her face.

“Then put a baby in me.” She says. Tim nearly chokes on his tongue and now he knows she is drunk. 

“I’m sorry?” He says. But Lucy doesn’t reply just rests her head on his chest. 

“You are warm.” She mutters. “Take me to bed.” 

“That I can do.” He mutters into her hair. “I’m going to take care of you Lucy.” Lucy mutters something incoherent and Tim sighs softly. They would have to talk about this in the morning but he doesn’t mind. He still gets Lucy, even if she won’t remember anything and that’s okay with him. 

***

Lucy wakes up with a groan and opens her eyes slowly. Her head is pounding and she feels like she just got run over by a truck. She opens one eye and then the other and turns her head to see Tim looking at her.

“Good morning.” He says softly. “How are you feeling?” Lucy groans again  and shuts her eyes again trying to remember what happened last night.

“What happened?” She asks. Tim grins at her, and scoots in closer. 

“You got a little drunk or tipsy like you kept insisting.” He says. “And then you tried to undress me.”

“Oh god.” Lucy groans. “What else happened?” 

“You asked me to put a baby in you.” Tim says a smile twitching at his lips. Lucy groans again and flips over burying her face into the pillow. 

“I’m sorry.” She says her voice muffled by the pillow. She lifts her head to see Tim grinning at her. “I think drunk me is unfiltered.” 

“You are.” He confirms. “But it makes me love and want you more.” Lucy groans again and Tim pulls her into his side.

“I—I think it’s too soon to think about having a baby.” She says. Tim kisses her on the forehead and then pulls back to look at her.

“It is.” He says. “But maybe one day right?” Lucy nods and curls more into him. 

“Yeah maybe one day. We can come back to this—maybe we need to do something else first.”

“Like?” Tim questions. Lucy reaches up to touch his face, and she wants nothing more than to just soak in this moment with the love of her life.

“Maybe not use my apartment as a storage space anymore.” She says hoping Tim would get the hint. “So Celina will stop questioning me when I’m coming home.” She sees the realization hint Tim and then a smile lights up his face.

“I guess that’s something we will have to talk about huh?” Tim says softly. “But just for the record Luce. I want you. I want you everyday, in my space and everyday.” 

“Yeah.” Lucy whispers softly feeling like she was the luckiest person. “Me too.” 

They were still talking it step by step. They would start building the rest of there lives together. 

Step by step.

Little by little.

I want you. I need you. 

I want you. I need you. 

Notes:

Up next: Tim & Lucy take a big next step.

Chapter 7: Let’s move in

Summary:

Tim and Lucy take the next step with one another.

Notes:

This one is a little shorter but it’s a big step for them 🙂‍↔️

[ To move. intransitive verb. to occupy a dwelling or place of work.]

***

“Oh you are home.” Celina says when Lucy walks through the door. Lucy pauses and looks at her and then drops her bag on the counter.

“I live here.” Lucy says. “Of course I’m home.” Celina rolls her eyes and then shoots Lucy a grin. 

“Do you live here? Or do you live with your boyfriend?” She asks. Lucy glowers at her a little and while it’s true she hasn’t been home to the apartment in some time. It’s not like she’s living full time with Tim.

“I’m not living with Tim.” She protests but it’s weak. They had talked about it the other morning and she had given a hint but it hadn’t come up since. 

And she didn’t want to push Tim, she wanted to make sure he was ready for this next big step.

“Right.” Celina says. “Have you even talked about it with him? I mean you guys are in a good place right?”

“We are.” Lucy confirms. “But it’s not—this is a big step for us. We just got back on track and—”

“Hey.” Celina says a small smile on her face. “You two love each other. You are going to be together forever right?”

“That’s the plan.” Lucy says. Celina gives her a look and Lucy blows out a breath. Maybe Celina did have a point. 

Maybe it was time to talk about her moving in. It made sense—she didn’t want to spend a night away from Tim anyway. She was here to pick up some more clothes, and some other miscellaneous items.

“Then just talk to him about it.” Celina says with an encouraging smile. “It might turn out better than you think.”

Lucy sighs just as her phone buzzes. It’s a message from Tim: 

Tim: You good? 

Lucy: I’m fine. I will be down in a little bit. We need to talk about something. 

Tim: ? 

Lucy: It’s not bad.

There’s a knock on the door a few minutes later and Celina walks over to open it. Lucy peers around to see Tim standing at the door.

“Hey.” Lucy says. “I told you I would be down in a little bit.” Tim steps into the apartment with his hands shoved in his pockets looking a little apprehensive.

“You had me worried.” He says. “What do we need to talk about?” Celina looks between them and then slowly backs towards her room.

“Good luck!” She calls as she closes the door behind her. Tim raises his eyebrows and steps towards Lucy. She meets him in the middle and then peers up at him.

“Remember when I said that I use this place as a storage unit?” She asks. “And the fact that I came here to pick up more of my stuff.”

“Sure.” Tim says slowly looking confused. “What about it?” Lucy sighs and pulls Tim closer to her.

“I think..we should.” She says and then pauses and looks away from Tim. 

“What?” 

“Let’s move in.” She blurts out and then adds: “Together.” 

“Oh?” Tim says. “You want to live with me?” Lucy hits him on the chest and then nods her head. Her boyfriend is infuriating as hell but she loves him. 

She wants him. 

And she wants to live with him.

Take the next step with him.

“Yes.” She says. “I don’t come here anyway. And we are in a good place right? The next logical step would be to move in.” 

“Right.” Tim says and he has mischievous smirk on his face. Lucy wants to smack him again and then a thought occurs to her.

“Unless you don’t want me to move in with you and that’s totally fine. I get it if you aren’t ready or—” She stops when she sees the look on Tim’s face.

“I do want you to move in.” He says. “Of course I do Luce. And you are right—it is the next logical step.”

“Oh thank god.” Lucy says in relief. “I didn’t want to push you.” Tim leans in to kiss her, and it’s soft and sweet. She pulls him in closer, never wanting him to leave her side. 

“Good.” Lucy says. “So it’s set then? I am going to move in with you?” Tim opens his mouth to reply but another voice interrupts him.

“Finally!” They both turn to see Celina standing at her doorway. “Don’t get me wrong Lucy you are an amazing roommate. But you deserve to be happy and not have the obligation of a apartment.”

Lucy gapes at her a little. “So you are trying to get rid of me?” She asks. Tim lets out and Lucy elbows him in the stomach.

“Of course not.” Celina says. “But you clearly are happier when you are with Tim.” Lucy looks up at Tim and he smiles at her. It’s true—she is happier. Tim is her safe place, her refuge and her home.

“True.” Lucy says and then turns back to Celina. “Are you sure you are okay with this?”

“Yes.” Celina says. “I hear Miles might be looking for a place to live and someone will have to take over the lease so…” She smiles at Lucy, and she feels immediate relief.

“Okay.” She says turning back to Tim. “Then it’s official. Let’s move in.”

“Yeah. Let’s move in.” Tim replies and then adds: “Together.”

***

“I think that’s it.” Tim says coming back into Lucy’s empty room. He spots her sitting on her bed looking around. “Are you okay?” 

“I’m fine.” Lucy says looking over at him and standing up. He watches as she makes her way towards him. “This is real.”

“Yep.” He replies and sometimes he can’t believe it himself. Lucy is moving in with him, they are going to live together.

For real.

“It is real.” He says softly. “Are you still okay with it?” Lucy peers up at him with wonderment in her eyes. 

“Absolutely.” She says moving in closer to him. “I want to do this. This is our next step for our future.”

“Our future.” Tim says and he presses a kiss to the top of her head. He thinks of the bright future of ahead of them.

Moving in.

Getting engaged. 

Getting married.

Having kids one day.

“Yeah.” Lucy says softly. “Out future—we are going to make it this time. The whole nine yards.” 

“I agree.” Tim says. “It’s going to be different. I promise Luce. No more walking away or shutting you out.” 

“Good.” She says grinning up at him her eyes bright. “Now let’s go so we can start unpacking everything.” Tim tries not to groan as Lucy takes his hand and pulls him from her room. 

The thought of unpacking all Lucy’s stuff was daunting but at least they were together and their future was bright. 

Together.

***

“Let’s unpack later.” Lucy says as she stares at all the boxes now in the house. “Come here.” She takes Tim’s hand and he follows her willingly. She flops down on the couch pulling him with her. She settles against him and lets out a loud but happy sigh.

“We will have to unpack at some point you know.” He says resting his chin on her head. She knows he’s right and she knows it will eventually get done but for now—

“I know.” She says softly. “But I’m good right here for now.” Tim chuckles and she feels him press a kiss to the top of her head. 

“Okay fine.” He says. “We can just sit here for awhile. You do have a lot of stuff.” He has a teasing lilt to his voice and she rolls her eyes and slaps his leg.

“Shut up.” She says. “You wanted me to move in.” Tim laughs and pulls her closer until she was snuggled into his side. It’s quiet for a few minutes, before Tim speaks again. 

“Hey Lucy.” Tim mutters and she turns to look up at him. 

“Yeah?” 

“Welcome home.” He mutters. She wants to tell him he is her home. He is her safe place to land, her refuge.

No matter the place. No matter where they are. He is her home. 

“You’re my home.” She mutters and she feels Tim press another kiss to the top of her head.

“You are my home too.” He whispers. “Always. I’m glad you are here with me.” 

“Me too.” She says and she feels so overwhelmed with happiness. “Me too.” 

Let’s move in. One step forward.

Let’s move in. One step forward.

Let’s move in. One step forward.

Notes:

Up next: Some tough calls, a little jealously but one thing remains.

Chapter 8: I trust you

Summary:

Tim and Lucy realize they trust one another. And that’s not going away.

Notes:

I hope you enjoy! 💙

[to trust. noun. firm belief in the reliability, truth, ability, or strength of someone or something.] 

***

“I need to tell you something.” Is the first thing Tim says to Lucy when he steps through the door. He drops all his stuff, and then feels Lucy take his hand and leads him to the couch. 

“What’s going on babe?” She asks. Tim sighs softly and then turns to face her. She’s looking at him with concern in her eyes and he realizes this is a lot to drop on someone after they both had long days.

“I ran into Ashley.” He says and Lucy’s eyebrows raise high into her hairline looking surprised. He doesn’t blame her, he was surprised to see Ashley at the station waiting for him apparently. She was trying to flirt with him, win him back and it didn’t work but he felt like there was a rock in his stomach.

He felt guilty.

“You did? Where?” Lucy asks sounding a little hesitant. He never told her everything that went down with Ashley. And it didn’t really matter, Ashley was the past and Lucy was the future. 

His future.

“She was waiting for me at my truck.” He says and Lucy’s eyes widen as she turns to face him fully. “She was flirty and she wanted to try again. I said no of course but—”

“Tim.” Lucy says with a small smile on her face. She scoots closer to him and leans in. “I trust you.” 

Tim reels back a little and it’s not like he expected her to be jealous or anything. They were both very secure in the relationship. They knew where the other stood and really that was all that mattered. But still he knows how Lucy felt about Ashley and the fact she wasn’t her biggest fan. And besides the fact that he just got her trust back, he just got her back. 

“What?” He asks sounding bewildered. Lucy rolls her eyes but she has a big grin on her face. 

“I trust you.” She says. “I know you love me. I know you wouldn’t do anything to betray me. And Ashley is in the past right?” Tim nods and reaches for her, she goes willingly and falls into his arms.

“Yes.” He says. “She absolutely is in the past. You are my future.” Lucy snuggles into him and he presses a kiss to the top of her head feeling a little more content than before.

“Good.” Lucy says. “Did she really think she could win you back by just showing up?”

“I don’t know what her game plan was.” He says. “But it didn’t work.”

“If she shows up again—call me.” Lucy says lifting her head to look up at him. There’s a mischievous look in her eyes that he loves. “I will make sure she stays away.” 

“God I love you.” He mutters. He never felt this way with Ashley, he never wanted to build a life with her like he is doing with Lucy. 

“Mmm.” Lucy mumbles. “I love you too Tim.” 

*** 

“You made the right call.” A voice says. Lucy sucks in a deep breath before she’s turning around. “You did the right thing.” Tim stands behind her looking concern but his face is soft.

“Did I?” Lucy asks. “I-I shot someone Tim. Again. It just feels like the same thing all over again. I feel like I’m drowning.” 

“Come here.” Tim says stepping closer to her. Lucy hesitates for a few seconds and then falls into Tim’s arms as soon as he’s close enough. He holds her for a few seconds not saying a word, and she feels the tension and anxiety slowly melt away. 

“I trust you.” He mutters and she looks up at him confused but he continues. “I trust that you made the right decision Luce.”

“How do you have that much confidence in me?” She asks. Tim looks down at her, and he has a sparkle in his eyes that she would never tire of. It was one that was for her and for her only. 

“Because I know you are a good cop, you are a good sergeant and leader.” He says and her stomach swoops a little. “You have to make tough decisions but that’s part of the job. The man was going to hurt you if you hadn’t—” He pauses and takes a deep breath. 

“I know.” She whispers and she realizes Tim must have heard over the radio. She couldn’t imagine hearing Tim was in the middle of gunfire. 

“You’re a good sergeant.” He says. “And you made the right call.” Lucy blows out a breath and looks up at him.

“I wish there was more we could have done.” She says. “Calmed him down or something.” Tim nods in understanding and she realizes that not everything will work out the way she thought or hoped.

“You trusted your gut and your instincts.” Tim says softly. “And I trust you. You just need to believe that you made the right decision and trust yourself.” 

“I’m trying.” She mutters because she knows this won’t be just a fix with Tim’s words. He’s right—she’s going to have to trust herself that she made the right call. 

“I will help you through this.” Tim mutters putting a hand on her cheek. “Okay? We will get through this.

“Okay.” She mutters and she feels him press another kiss to the top of her head. She might be unsure right now but she has Tim by her side and that’s all that matters.

***

“You trust me right?” Tim asks Lucy one day as they drive to work. They drive to work together most days and Tim loves it. He loves being able to start his day with Lucy and end it with her. They had been living together for over two months and it was the best decision that he has ever made. It wasn’t always perfect, and they had their arguments here and there. 

But they were under the same roof, they were together and he couldn’t want anything more.

“Of course I trust you.” She says looking over at him. “Why?” Tim shrugs his shoulders and focuses back on the road trying to think of the right thing to say. 

“I know I broke your heart and your trust.” He says still not looking at her and he feels her eyes on him. 

“You did.” She agrees. “But you also put it back together and you worked so I could trust yourself again.” Tim takes his eyes off the road to look at her.

“I hate that I did it.” He says. “I hurt you. The one person who trusted me and never gave up on me. I never wanted to hurt you Lucy.”

“I know that Tim.” Lucy says gently. She reaches for his hand and laces her fingers through it. “I was hurt and angry but I know deep down you never meant to hurt me.” 

“Yeah.”

“Where is this all coming from?” She asks. Tim doesn’t answer right away just pulls into the parking lot. He parks and then turns to face her. 

“I’m still going to therapy.” He says even though Lucy knows this. She has gone with him and waited for him more than a few times.

“I know.” She says. “I’m so proud of you for that.” Tim ducks his head down and Lucy gives his hand a squeeze. 

“I thought we had built something up before Valentine’s Day and I thought I was getting that trust back.” He says. “But then we—”

“It was both of us.” Lucy reminds him, her eyes searching his face. “I started it.” 

“I know.” He says. “But I also felt like it was crumbling a little. And then the fire—” He pauses a little the thought of losing Lucy plaguing his mind.

“I trusted you to protect me.” She says softly. Tim sighs softly because he only had one thought that day: one priority and that was to protect Lucy. To make sure she got out of there. Alive.

“You were my priority.” He says. He takes his eyes off of her and looks around. They should be getting inside. But he needs a few more minutes with Lucy.

“I know.” Lucy says. “I don’t know what’s going through your head Tim but I do trust you okay? It might have been broken but you made it right. I trust you won’t walk away again. I trust that you will let me in.”

“I will.” He says. Lucy smiles at him and leans over to kiss him. He responds eagerly pulling her as close as he can. “And I’m never walking away again.”

“Good.” Lucy says patting his chest. “I will hold you to that Bradford.”  He cracks a smile and gives her another kiss. He’s not going to let down again, he can’t lose her again because of his own stupid actions. 

“Come on.” Lucy says leaning back and opening the door. “Let’s go and we can continue this later.” 

Tim smiles and opens his own door. It might not be perfect and he might still have those voices saying he messed up but he knows Lucy trusts and loves him and he can live with that right now. 

***

“This is silly.” Tim grumbles as they stay in line for the Ferris wheel. Lucy chuckles softly and looks over at him. He’s scowling but she knows him and she knows he’s not serious. He’s just grumpy, which is one of the many reasons she loves him.

“It’s not silly.” She says leaning into him. “It’s romantic.” Tim rolls his eyes and reaches for her hand giving it a squeeze.

“But why the Ferris wheel?” He asks. “Isn’t there something less high up?” 

“Do you trust me?” She asks. Tim looks over at her, a soft expression now on his face. 

“Of course I do.” He says. She smiles at him and pulls him as they move up in the line.

“Then let it all go.” She says. “Just enjoy the moment.” Tim sighs but doesn’t say anything as the line continues to move. They finally get up to the front and wait until the everyone clears out and then they are put in one of the gondolas. 

The attendant tells them to buckle up and then he locks them in. And they start to move up as more people get on. 

“Isn’t it beautiful?” Lucy says leaning into him. Tim is staring out the window watching as they go higher and higher. 

“It’s LA.” He says. Lucy scoffs and hits him on the arm. 

“It’s more than that.” She says. “Trust me. When we get to the top you will see what I mean.” The gondola goes higher and higher and finally they are at the top. 

“We are very high.” Tim says. Lucy just lays her head down on his shoulder and takes his hand laying them down in their laps. “But it does seem prettier from up here.” 

“See?” Lucy says turning away to look for herself. “You just had to trust me.” She turns to look at Tim who is gazing at her with such affection and love.

“I do trust you Luce.” He says leaning into to kiss her. “And I always will.” Lucy smiles and turns to look out again. 

“I trust you too.” She says. She feels a soft kiss to the top of her head. And no matter what—whether they were up on top or on solid ground. They were in this together. 

And she trusts that will last until the end.

I trust you.

I trust you.

I trust you. 

Notes:

Up next: some physical touch

Chapter 9: Take my hand

Summary:

Some physical touch for Tim & Lucy

Notes:

I hoped you enjoyed this chapter! 🫶🏻

[Take my hand, now and forever]

***

“Take my hand.” Lucy says to Tim as they walk across the very rickety bridge. Tim immediately laces his fingers through hers and she feels an instant set of relief. Just having Tim’s hand in hers makes her feel like she can walk across this death trap without falling.

“Are you okay?” Tim asks looking at her as they both take tentative steps towards the end. “You look like you are about to faint.”

“I’m fine.” She says. She doesn’t look at him but rather at the end of the bridge, she’s not sure what made her want to do this but—

They were going for a hike. That’s it. It was something they hadn’t done for a long time and they both had the day off and she wanted to take advantage of it. It was one of those rare days she knows doesn’t come along often.

“Lucy.” Tim says and he pulls her to a stop. She nearly yelps in surprise but manages to bite her tongue. “What’s going on?” 

“Nothing.” She says. “Let’s keep walking.” She tugs on him and he follows her his hand still in hers.

They finally reach the end and Lucy feels like she can breathe again but she doesn’t let go of his hand. She just squeezes it as she she pulls him away from the bridge. 

“Lucy.” Tim says and pulls her to another stop. He searches her face for a few minutes before he’s speaking again. “You good?”

“Yeah.” She says and then leans up to give him a kiss. “Can I be honest?” Tim gives her a long look that tells her she should already know the answer.

“Of course.”

“I was nervous.” She says looking back at the bridge and then at Tim. “But then you took my hand and it’s—”

“What?”

“You make me feel safe. Like I can get through the most challenging things.” She says and she feels a little silly saying all this but—it’s true. And it always would be true. Sometimes she just felt like she needed the extra support.

“Oh.”

“You never doubted me when I was studying for the sergeant’s exam. You always said when not if.” She pauses and takes a deep breath. “I love you.” 

Tim does let go of her hand but he pulls her in close. He presses his body against her and holds her tight and then looks down at her like she hung the moon. 

“I love you too.” He mutters and his voice shakes a bit. “And I will always be here to support you.” 

Lucy smiles and glances back at the bridge knowing they have to go over it again to get back but—

With Tim holding her hand, she knows she will be fine.

***

“Hey.” Lucy says softly. Tim takes his eyes off the road and looks over at her, she’s looking at him with a familiar look in her eyes.

One full of love and awe.

“Hmm?” He mutters tearing his eyes away from her so he can focus on the road. He lets his arm rest on the console and keeps on hand on the steering wheel.

“Take my hand.” She says. He doesn’t hesitate, or even think about it. He reaches for her hand and she gives it to him willingly. 

“You good?” He asks her. She nods but doesn’t say anything instead lets her head rest against the headrest. 

“Do you ever think about where we would be if we never met? If Grey hadn’t paired us up?” She asks. Tim comes to a stop at a red light and glances over at her. He has thought of it especially after they broke up. He thought about how different his life would be without her in it.

And he didn’t like it.

He didn’t like it one bit.

Lucy broke down his walls, she helped pull him from the deepest depths of depravity. His biggest regret was letting her go. And not having her in his arms, in his space those few months was torture. 

So thinking about not knowing her at all— was something he didn’t want to think about. He didn’t even want his mind to entertain it.

“I have.” He admits. “And I am forever thankful that I do get to know you. And we are sharing this life together.”

“Me too.” Lucy says. “I just wondered if we—I don’t know maybe I would have washed out.” Tim shakes his head at her because he knows even without him she would be a good cop.

“No.” He says. “You would be a great cop even without me.” 

“You made me a great cop.” Lucy says. “You helped me become the cop—the sergeant I am today.” She squeezes his hand, and he squeezes it back.

“You did it too Luce. You pushed yourself and you never gave up. You are amazing.” He says. “Absolutely amazing.”

Tim brings her hand up to his mouth and presses a kiss there and then another one. “You are amazing too Tim.” She says. “And my life wouldn’t be the same without you.”

Tim just squeezes her hand and he smiles a little. He’s grateful he will never have to know life without Lucy.

“Thank you for always being there for me.” Lucy says after a few minutes of silence. 

“Always.” Tim says. “Always.”

***

Tim pushes the door open to his old office and steps inside. Lucy is sitting behind the empty desk wrapped up in one of his hoodies. 

“Hey.” He says softly so he doesn’t startle her. She looks up and a small smile spreads across her face. “Are you okay?” 

He had heard over the radio, there was an incident and even though it was clear he knew Lucy was involved. He rushed back to the station, only to find out Lucy wasn’t hurt just a little shaken up.

“I’m okay.” She says. “I just needed a minute to think.” To nods and walks over to stand in front of her. 

“I get it.” He says and then holds out his hand to her. Lucy stares at it blankly. She blinks at it and then up at him.

“Take my hand.” He says. She doesn’t move for a few seconds and then she takes his hand and he pulls her up into him. He wraps his arms around her and holds her for a few minutes without saying a word. He feels her shaking, but he just rubs her back up and down to call her down.

“I’m okay.” She says pulling back to look up at him. She still looks worried but he can tell she’s more relaxed. 

Tim doesn’t quite believe her but he doesn’t want to push her. They can talk when they get home, when they are alone and together. “Okay.” He says softly and Lucy gives him a grateful smile. He plays with one of the strings on the hoody, and then gives Lucy a curious look. “Where did you get this anyway?” He asks knowing the last time he saw this hoody was in his closet.

“I may or may not have raided your closet.” She says. “I wanted something to put in my locker.” Tim makes a soft noise and pulls her towards him again.

“God I love you.” He mutters pressing a kiss to the top of her head. Lucy makes a soft noise and pulls back to look at him.

“There’s at least two shirts and another sweater in my locker.” She says shrugging. “I can’t help it.”

“What’s mine is yours baby.” He says and he steps back and holds out his hand again. She takes it immediately and he can feel her relaxing a little. “Come on. Let’s get out of here.” He pulls her from the office his hand still in hers. 

They would talk later, they would work through whatever they needed to but for right now with Lucy’s hand in his—he feels like it’s going to be okay. 

***

“Are you nervous?” Tim asks Lucy as they walk up to the restaurant. Lucy glances over at him and gives him a long look. And then back at the restaurant where she knows her mother is waiting.

Her mom had reached out to her quite unexpectedly and asked to meet for lunch. Lucy wasn’t sure if this was a trap to make Lucy feel bad about all the choices she has made or what. She’s not sure how this lunch was going to go. All she knows is she wants her mom to know how well she’s doing. She has a job, a boyfriend and a comfortable home. She has a good life. No matter if her mother approved of it or not.

“No—” She says looking up at Tim. She had insisted Tim come along with only to calm her down if need be. “I’m not but it’s my mom—”

“Take my hand.”” Tim says holding his hand out to her. She takes it and he gives it a squeeze. “It’s going to be okay Lucy.”

Lucy nods and they start walking towards the restaurant again. Tim opens the door and Lucy goes in first and she looks around. She doesn’t see her mom right away which is odd because she figured her mom would be here first. 

“She’s not here.” Lucy says still looking around. “I should have known this was too good to be true.” 

“She says will show up.” Tim says squeezing her hand. “She was the one who asked you to meet her Luce.”

“You don’t know my mother.” Lucy says and she’s actually happy about that. The last thing she needed was for her mom to insult Tim. 

“Still.” Tim says. “She’s the one who reached out. Why wouldn’t she show up?” Lucy shrugs her shoulders. She stopped asking why her mother did the things she did years ago. It was just easier that way. 

“I don’t know.” Lucy says. She sits down in one of the chairs and Tim sits next to her. “I thought she actually wanted to do this. To make amends. I should have known.” Tim makes a soft noise, and pulls her towards him. 

“What do you want to do?” He asks. She looks over at Tim, and she feels bad that she dragged him here. 

“Let’s wait here for a few minutes.” She says. “And then we can leave.” Tim nods and reaches out to take her hand. 

“I’m here for you Luce.” He says softly. “Whether she shows up or not. I’m here.” Lucy blinks back the tears in her eyes feeling grateful for him.

“I know.” She mumbles. “I can’t believe I got stood up by my own mother.” She hears Tim let out a soft noise and then he’s pulling her up and leading her out of the restaurant. 

“Where are we going?” She asks as he continues to watch. He looks at her, his eyes sparkling a little.

“Just trust me.” He says. “I’m going to get your mind off of this.” Lucy can’t help but smile because she knows Tim and he has his ways of distracting her. 

He did it a lot. 

And she doesn’t mind one bit. 

“Okay.” She says as they approach the truck. Tim grins at her but doesn’t let go of her hand. And she’s not sure what Tim has planned but she knows with his hand in hers—everything will be okay. 

As long as she can take his hand now and forever—it would be alright. 

Notes:

Up next: Tim & Lucy have a little fun.

Chapter 10: Drunk on you

Summary:

Tim & Lucy have a little fun after a tough day.

Notes:

This is just a fluffy and funny chapter before the angst in the next chapter. Enjoy!

And yes the Bennie and The Jets scene is loosely (very loosely) based on the scene from 27 dresses.

[Hey, I'm a little drunk on you. And high on summertime.]

***

“Hey.” Lucy says when she sees Tim at his truck waiting for her. “Rough day?” Tim nods his head and leans down to kiss her. 

“You wouldn’t believe it if I told you.” He says standing up straight. “You?” Lucy snorts and rolls her eyes. She loves being a sergeant—she loves being in charge but sometimes she just wants to scream at everyone who is not doing their jobs properly. 

“Terrible.” She says. “Let’s get drunk.” Tim’s eyes widen a little and he looks utterly perplexed. 

“What?”

“Let’s blow off some steam. Let’s have some fun.” Lucy says sidling up to him. “You are really good at distracting me.”

“I can think of a hundred different ways to distract you.” He says a smirk on his face. “You really want to get drunk?”

“No.” Lucy says. “Maybe not—just enough to blow off some steam.” Tim hesitates but she can see he’s warming up to the idea. He loves to sit back and have a beer after work, and whether it’s one or two she knows he’s relaxes him. 

He never lets it get to the point where he’s drunk. And she wouldn’t want him too—she knows how much that affected him when his dad got drunk and she knows he never wants to be his dad.

“Okay.” Tim says. “One or two would be okay.” Lucy grins at him and leans up to kiss him.

“Sounds good to me.” She says and releases him so he can go over to the driver’s side. Lucy climbs in the passenger side and closes the door.

One or two drinks to blow off some steam with the man she loves. 

Sounds good to her.

***

Tim sits at the bar next to Lucy as she twirls her shot glass across the counter. She has had two shots of tequila and just ordered another one. He was still working on his first beer, although he really didn’t mind.

Lucy deserves to relax after a hard day. She deserves to have a shot or three after a long hard day.    He knows it was a rough day for both of them and really he just wanted to go home and curl up on the couch together. 

But—

“You should do a shot babe.” Lucy says leaning over into him. She snatches his beer from him and takes a sip ignoring the scowl he gives her.

“I’m good.” He says taking the beer back. “I don’t do shots.” Lucy gives him a long look before she’s scooting in closer.

“You also didn’t let anyone boss you around in bed until me.” She says. Tim nearly chokes on his beer. “You never tried new things until I came around.” She nudges his side, and he looks over at her to see she has a grin on her face.

“Right.” He says taking a sip of his beer and then setting it down. “You bring it out in me I guess.” Lucy keeps grinning at him, and then leans over to press a kiss to his cheek.

“I bet I can make you do something you have never done before.” She says. Tim raises his eyebrows at her knowing this could only end badly for him.

“What’s that?”

“Karaoke.” She says a huge grin on her face. It doesn’t falter even when he frowns at her. “Or at the very least me doing karaoke to you.” She hops up and pulls him with her and leads them on stage.

“Lucy.” He says but then he sees the look on her face and he knows he can’t deny her anything really. 

Ever. 

“Come on.” She says. “I will let you pick the song.” He stares at her, and then shrugs his shoulders.

“Bennie and The Jets ?” He says before he can stop himself. 

“God I love you.” Lucy says and she leans up to kiss him before going to the DJ and whispering the song in his ear.

The music starts playing and Tim knows the song but it’s like everything freezes as he watches Lucy start to sing.

Oh but they're so spaced out, Be-Be-Bennie and the Jets

Oh but they're weird and wonderful

Oh Bennie she's really clean

She's got electric boots, a Mohair suit

You know I read it in a magazine, ooh ho

Be-Be-Bennie and the Jets

She has a nice voice and it carries throughout the bar. Lucy doesn’t take her eyes off of him as she continues to sing the chorus. There are cheers in the crowd, bo doubt drunk men probably trying to get her attention. 

He’s not worried although it would be nice to see these men squirm when they realize she is very much not single.

Lucy continues to sing and Tim continues to watch her completely memorized by her. She takes his breath away in the best way possible. 

She looks over at him, and maybe it’s the alcohol talking. Maybe it’s the fact that he knows what he wants for the rest of his life. 

Lucy.

It would always be Lucy. 

Always. 

But he knows he’s going to marry her one day, have babies with her and make their lives theirs. They are going to have these let’s get drunk nights and nights at home.

“Babe.” Tim snaps out of his thoughts and turns to see Lucy looking at him. “You okay?” 

“Yeah .” He says and he takes her hand leading her off the stage. “Why don’t we give someone else a shot?” Lucy grins at him as he pulls her closer and they start to sway on the dance floor.

“What were you thinking about?” She asks her lips pressed against his cheek. 

“You. Us. Our future.” He says and he has never been so sure of something in his life. He knows Lucy is it for him.

“Yeah?” Lucy asks as they continue to sway. “What about it?” Tim swallows and presses a kiss to her forehead. 

“I know it’s a long ways off but marriage, kids and building our lives together.” He says and maybe he’s just drunk on her, drunk on Lucy right now but he just wants her to know how much he loves her. 

“If better not be too far off Bradford.” She says a mischievous glint in her eyes. “You can’t make a girl wait forever.”

“I won’t.” He promises. “Trust me.” He presses a kiss to her forehead and twirls her around.

“Good.” Lucy says smiling up at him, and he knows he’s not drunk on the alcohol. Lucy’s not even that drunk. 

But he’s drunk on her. 

They are drunk on each other. 

And he wouldn’t have it any other way. 

***

Lucy wakes up to a pounding head, and Tim wrapped around her. She shifts a little and feels Tim’s lips press into her shoulder and then she’s turning around to face him.

“Good morning.” He mutters. “How do you feel?” Lucy closes her eyes trying to think of last night and what happened.

She remembers taking a shot or three. She remembers karaoke, and dancing with Tim. She remembers feeling the adrenaline of being in love. Of being drunk on Tim. 

But she’s not even sure how they got home or how she ended up in bed. 

“I’m fine.” She mutters. “Did we do karaoke last night?” 

“You did.” Tim confirms. “You sang to me.”

“Oh god. What did I sing?” 

“Bennie and The Jets.” Tim says. Lucy rubs at her temples and closes her eyes briefly before she’s opening them again.

“That’s a good song.” She says a little absentmindedly. “And then we danced?” Tim nods his head and Lucy runs her hands down her face. 

“Yes.” He says softly. “And then you had a few more shots and I took you home. 

“Oh.”

“It was fun.” Tim says. “Watching you sing and let loose it was nice.” Lucy smiles and she loves that she has Tim by her side. 

Always.

“Yeah?”

“You have a nice voice.” He says. “I could listen to it all day long.” Lucy sighs softly, singing was something she never did in front of people. Something she kept to herself like her own secret talent. She didn’t mind that Tim heard her, she didn’t mind at all.

“You weren’t drunk?” Lucy asks. Tim shakes his head still smiling as he pulls her closer.

“I needed to get us home somehow.” He says. Lucy slots her legs in between his. “And besides I was drunk. On you.” Lucy just shakes her head a little, but she gets it. She gets being completely in love with someone that it almost feels like she’s spinning. 

Lucy leans in to kiss brushing her nose against his. “Thank you.” She says softly. “I needed last night even if it’s a little bit of a blur.”

“I know. I did too.” Tim admits. “It was nice to just let go.” Lucy hums softly, and rests her head on his chest. 

“I think I was a little drunk on you too.” She says. “I was thinking about how we almost didn’t have this. And now look at us.”

Tim swallows hard, and she feels his heart under her cheek. “We are living together, we are in love.” 

“Drunk on love.” Lucy says. Tim hums in agreement and god she wishes she could stay like this forever.

Just her and Tim in bed, drunk on love and each other. 

“Well hopefully today will be a better day for the both of us.” Tim says. “And we can come home and complain about it.”

Lucy laughs and curls up into him, that sounds perfect to her. Anytime with Tim, no matter where they were or what they were doing.

It would be perfect. 

They were drunk on love. They were drunk on each other and it was perfect. 

Drunk on love.

Drunk on you. 

Notes:

Up next: Tim gets hurt and Lucy says three desperate words to him.

Chapter 11: Don’t leave me

Summary:

Tim gets hurt in an accident and Lucy sits by his side and says three desperate words.

Notes:

This is a longer, angsty chapter. And it’s all in Lucy’s POV since Tim is hurt 😔. Also yes the whole case will be solved in the next chapter! I’m not going to just leave it 🫣🙂‍↔️

I hope you enjoy!

[Can you hear me screaming, ”Please don’t leave me!?”

Hold on, I still want you. Come back, I still need you.]

***

Lucy wakes up to her phone buzzing next to her. She groans softly but reaches over to grab it. She keeps her eyes closed as she answers wondering who in God’s name would be calling her this late at night. There was no reason for anyone to be calling, Tim had come home with her. They had done their whole routine that night.. together. 

“Hello?” She says sleepily not even bothering to sit up. There’s a noise over the phone and then a woman’s voice.

“Is this Lucy Chen?” The woman asks. Lucy sits up a little, her heart pounding. She reaches over for Tim but his spot is empty and cold. 

“Yes this is she.” Lucy says. The woman sighs and now Lucy hears beeping in the background. She glances over where Tim should be but he’s not. 

This makes Lucy sit up even straighter and she feels a little sick. Where was Tim? Why wasn’t he in bed? 

“I’m calling from St. Stephen’s hospital.” The woman says. “Tim Bradford was involved in a accident and he’s being treated here.” 

“Oh my god.” Lucy says scrambling to get out of bed. “Is he okay? What the hell happened?” 

“He’s unconscious and in a medically induced coma.” The woman says. “He suffered a broken leg and broken ribs. The doctor is worried about his head, and his body needs rest.” 

Lucy feels sick to her stomach, she feels like she could fall over at any moment. But she balances herself and manages to get out of the bedroom. She grabs her keys, her purse and slips on her shoes before she’s hurrying out the door.

“Ma’am?” The woman says and Lucy pauses just as she reaches her car. “Are you still there?”

“I’m on my way.” Lucy says feeling dizzy. She opens the car door, and then hangs up the phone and tosses it in the passenger seat. 

Don’t leave me. She thinks desperately to herself. She’s not sure why Tim was out this late at night and safe in bed with her. She’s not sure how they ended the night completely wrapped up in one another. But she knows one thing—she can’t lose Tim. She can’t lose him. 

Don’t leave me. 

***

Lucy gets to the hospital in fifteen minutes. She rushes into the emergency room, and a nurse leads her back to a room. She stops short when she sees Tim on the bed with wires everywhere. He has a cast on his leg, and he’s laying on his back with his eyes closed.

“His vitals are good.” The nurse says to her as she steps into the room. “His body went through a trauma and he needs rest.”

“Okay.” Lucy whispers never taking her eyes off of him. She walks over and sit down in a chair and grabs his hand.

“Hi babe.” She says. “Why the hell were you out at night? And without me?” She watches as his chest rises and falls. 

“I think those phone calls terrify me the most.” She says. “You are hurt and I’m not with you.” She brings his hand up to her mouth and presses a kiss there. 

“Keep talking to him.” The nurse says kindly. “It will help heal him faster.” Lucy nods and rubs her hand up and down his arm. 

“I love you.” She mutters. “Don’t leave me. Please don’t leave me. I need you Tim.” She glances over at the screen and sees he has a steady heartbeat. 

“Don’t leave me.” She mutters. “Please don’t leave me.”

***

“How long have you been sitting here?” A voice asks from the doorway. Lucy turns to look and sees Angela.

“All night.” Lucy says looking back at Tim. “Since they called me and I rushed to get here.” 

“You need a break.” Angela says. “Go stretch your legs or something.” But Lucy shakes her head and squeezes Tim’s hand.

“I’m okay.” She says. “I’m not leaving his side.” Angela makes a soft noise and Lucy feels her next to her.

“You need to take care of yourself Lucy. Do you think Tim would be happy that you are just sitting here staring at him.” She asks. Lucy doesn’t tear her eyes away from Tim, she’s not sure she could if she tried.

“He looks peaceful.” She mutters. “He’s resting.” 

“Lucy.” Angela says. “I will stay with him until you get back but this is not healthy and I really don’t want your boyfriend angry with me when he wakes up.”

Lucy doesn’t move from her spot until Angela is tugging her up and pushing her towards the door. “Go to the bathroom. Get a drink of water. He’s not going anywhere.” Angela says. Lucy shoots her a look but Angela ignores it.

“Okay fine.” Lucy mutters. She gives one more look at Tim before she’s leaving the room. She goes to the bathroom, gets a drink of water and then paces the waiting room for a few minutes. 

Why was Tim out at night? 

What was he doing? 

Was he hiding something from her again? 

Did something happen at work he didn’t want to tell her about? 

“Sergeant Chen!” Lucy looks up to see Miles running towards her with concern all over his face. 

“Miles.” Lucy says and maybe Tim’s rookie would know something about why Tim was out so late. 

“Is Sergeant Bradford okay?” Miles asks. “Grey called me and told me he was in an accident but—”

“Do you know why he was out?” Lucy blurts out. Miles’s furrows his eyebrows at her. “Has he said anything to you.”

“No—” Miles starts. “We busted a drug smuggling ring today. But we caught them all.” Lucy nods because Tim had told her about that. It was a good bust.

“You caught everyone?” Lucy asks. Miles’s hesitates for a minute and Lucy feels like she could scream and throw something at a wall.

“Sergeant Bradford was convinced there was one more person out there. The real ring leader.” He pauses and Lucy looks at him curiously. 

“You don’t think there is?” Lucy asks. Miles shrugs his shoulders, looking at the ground and then back at Lucy.

“It was a clean capture. They didn’t even fight us.” Miles says. Lucy frowns at that, it seemed like it was easy. 

Too easy.

“So it was too easy?” Lucy asks. Miles hesitates but nods his head. Lucy blows out a breath—it was adding up in her head but why—

“Do you think Sergeant Bradford got a message or something?” Miles asks her bringing her out of her thoughts. 

“That’s my guess.” Lucy says closing her eyes and then she’s pacing again. Why didn’t Tim tell her? Why did he always feel the need to protect her? Why couldn’t he just let her in. 

“Is—is Sergeant Bradford okay?” Miles asks. Lucy shuffles her feet, she really wants to get back to Tim.

“He’s—in a medically induced coma.” Lucy replies. “Angela is back with him now. Can you do me a favor and look—”

“Yes.” Miles says without hesitation. “I will get to the bottom of this Sergeant Chen.” Lucy nods her head and motions him to follow her. They get to Tim’s room and Angela stands up and meets them at the doorway. 

Miles fills her in and Lucy can see the concern flash across her face. “So we think Tim got a message?” Angela asks. “Where is his phone?” Lucy looks around her, and sees a bag of Tim’s belongings sitting on the bedside table. She hurries over and grabs the phone punching in the passcode and then takes a deep breath. 

“Lucy.” Angela says. Lucy makes her way back to Angela and Miles. She hands the phone to Angela who studies the screen for a few minutes her face unreadable.

“What does it say?” Lucy asks. 

“He got a message.” Angela says. “Whoever this is—threatened you and him.”

“I could have helped him.” Lucy says looking over at Tim. “Why does he always have to be the god damn hero?”

“It’s in his nature to protect you Lucy. You know that.” Angela says. Lucy just shakes her head and goes to sit back down. She reaches for Tim’s hand again and squeezes it.

“You have a lot of explaining to do.” Lucy mutters. “Don’t leave me. Please don’t leave me.” 

***

Lucy doesn’t move from her spot again until Genny comes and makes her walk around some more. She hates leaving Tim’s side, she feels like she’s drowning when she’s not around him. 

“Go take care of yourself Lucy.” Genny says gently. “Please.”  Lucy just slumps out of the room, and outside. She leans against the wall and looks up at the sky. It’s evening time—she’s not sure what time or how long she has been here. 

The doctor’s said Tim was doing good and they would start to week him off the medication in a few days. His head CT scan had come back fine much to Lucy’s relief. 

And now he just needed to wake up. 

She misses him even if he was right there. She misses his voice, his touch and everything else that she loves about him. 

She just wants him back with her, just to know she would still get her forever with him. She wants to know why he didn’t wake her up so she could help him. 

“Lucy.” A voice says in front of her. She looks up to see Angela standing in front of her. 

“Hi.” She says looking down at the ground. She closes her eyes and sucks in a breath. 

“Are you okay?” Angela asks. “Why are you out here?”

“Genny kicked me out for a little bit.” Lucy replies finally looking up at Angela. “I needed fresh air. Why are you here?”

“I have an update.” Angela says and Lucy immediately straightens up. “It looks like Tim was going through a green light and he was T-boned by whoever hit him. The traffic cameras caught it.”

“Did they catch the other car?” Lucy asks sounding hopeful but knowing she would be disappointed.

“Partial license plate.” Angela says. “But it didn’t go anywhere. We also traced the number that messaged Tim.” Lucy heart sinks to the ground and she feels nauseous. 

“And?”

“It’s the best lead we have gotten. It was a disposable phone however we think we could track it.” Angela says. 

“What about the other men?” Lucy asks. “Maybe they would talk.” 

“I don’t think so. I think I they are loyal.” Angela says. “But Miles’s has the same thought so we might try it.”

“Right.” Lucy mutters her mouth feeling dry. “What can I do?” 

“You can wait for Tim to wake up and take care of yourself.” Angela says. “Lets us handle this okay?”

It’s not like Lucy would leave Tim’s side for long—only when she needed to. But if she could catch the son of a bitch who threatened them and caused the accident—

She would.

She glances back at the hospital doors knowing Tim was behind them and she needed to get back.

Don’t leave me.

Please don’t leave me.

She sighs softly and glances back at Angela, and then back down at her feet. She just has to wait—and it was the hardest thing for her to do. 

***

Lucy sits in the chair next to Tim’s bed feeling utterly exhausted. She grabs Tim’s hand and squeezes it.

“This really sucks being without you.” She says. “You are here but not here. I just need you to come back to me.”

Lucy blinks at Tim and then rubs his arm carefully to avoid the IV. “I’m not mad at you. I’m just confused and hurt. I need you to open up Tim. I know you were trying to protect me but—”

“Ms Chen.” Lucy looks up to see Tim’s doctor walk through. He smiles at her as he checks all Tim’s vitals.

“He’s a tough one.” The doctor says. “He looks good. We are going to start weening him off the medication so he can wake up. It will take a few hours and he might be a little groggy and confused at first.”

“But he’s going to be okay?” Lucy asks tears in her eyes. The doctor nods and gives her a smile. 

“Yes.” He says. “He has a rough road ahead of him with his leg. But he’s going to be just fine.” Lucy nods and turns to look at Tim.

“I love you.” She mutters. “Thank you for not leaving me.”

***

Lucy is just drifting off to sleep when she hears a rustle from the bed. Her head shoots up and she sees Tim slowly opening his eyes. She has to hold in the gasp of relief and stands up. He turns to look at her, and he looks confused at first and then—

“Lucy?” He croaks. His voice is rough, but Lucy nearly falls over. 

“I’m here baby.” She mutters leaning over to give him a kiss. “I’m here.” Tim nods and Lucy sits back down reaching for his hand.

“What happened?” He asks. “I remember I was out—”

“A car t-boned you.” Lucy says softly. “Someone from the case you and Miles just worked.” Tim closes his eyes for a few seconds.

“I remember I got a message and they said—”

“They threatened me.” Lucy finishes for him. Tim grimaces but nods his head. Lucy leans forward some more. “Why didn’t you wake me up? I would have helped you.”

“That’s the thing.” Tim says and he closes his eyes again. “I was coming back home. And I started to send you a message. I was going to tell you everything but then everything went black.”

Lucy feels like she could cry, he was coming back home, he was going to open up. “You were coming back home?” She asks. Tim nods and reaches for her to come closer.

“I realized it was stupid I was going this alone. And I knew I wasn’t going to make the same mistake again.” He says. “I’m not perfect Lucy. But I’m going to try my best to not go back to that person.” 

“I know baby.” She mutters. “I was so confused when I got the call—”

“I know. I’m sorry.” Tim says. “I never meant to worry you. But the message—”

“I know I read it. They are trying to find the man who sent it.” She says. She reaches up to put a hand on his cheek. “I was really worried about you. It’s been two days of hell. I didn’t know if I would ever—”

“I’m okay.” He says softly. “I’m okay. I’m here.” Lucy just shakes her head and presses a kiss to his hand. 

“Don’t leave me.” She mutters. “I’m not sure I would survive.” Tim blinks at her, and then squeezes her hand.

“I’m not going anywhere.” He says. “But you would survive. You are the strongest person I know.”  Lucy shakes her head, because she has been through a lot. Caleb. Losing Jackson. The breakup. And she did survive it, she did. And she was proud of herself for doing that.

But there was one common denominator—and that was Tim. He always supported her, he always loved on her and he always knew what to say.

“Yeah.” She says softly. “But I wouldn’t want to live my life without you.” 

“Me neither.” Tim says. “And I am so sorry Lucy. I should have told you from the start.” 

“It’s okay.” She says leaning up to press her forehead against his. “I get it. I do. This isn’t going to be a linear journey Tim. It’s going to take time.”

“Have I told you how much I love you?” He mutters. She smiles and sits back down and holds onto his hand. 

“I have a pretty good idea.” She says. “I love you too.” Tim smiles at her, and despite all the wires. Despite the pain he must be in—she knows it’s going to be okay.

They will be okay.

***

Angela comes to visit a few hours after Tim wakes up. He’s moving around more and he’s more alert. The doctor said he was healing great and would be released in a few days. 

“Glad to see you are awake.” She says looking between them. Lucy sits up straight knowing Angela has an update on the case or more bad news.

“Have you—found out anything more?” She asks her. Angela sighs and takes a seat on the other side of the bed. She leans back and then leans forward on her elbows.

“Yes and no.” She says and then turns to look at Tim. “What was going through your head when you got this message?”

“It threatened me and Lucy.” He says turning to look at Lucy. “I had a feeling there was someone else out there. Someone who wanted to stay hidden. I just didn’t have the proof until—”

“The message.” Angela finishes. “We talked to some of the men you arrested. Some of them were helpful but most were not talking. We did get a name. Ian Ramos. Everyone is looking in to it now.”

“Thank god.” Lucy mutters because at least there was a name, at least they had something. 

“You two cannot go near this.” Angela says standing up. “This guy is already out for revenge and we want him behind bars.”

Tim and Lucy exchange looks and then they both nod. Lucy wants this guy caught but she also wants Tim to heal. She wants to make sure he’s okay. And she’s going to do her best to get him through this.

***

Tim is released from the hospital two days later and Lucy drives him home. She keeps on her eyes on the road, but his hand is in hers the entire time. 

“I’m sorry.” Tim says as they come to a stop at a red light. “For everything I put you through—again.”

Lucy squeezes his hand, and turns to look at him briefly. “You said you were on the way home right?” 

“I was.” He says. “I wasn’t that far actually and then—” Lucy turns back to the road and despite everything this could have been so much worse.

“I’m just happy you are alive Tim.” Lucy says. She presses on the gas when the light turns green. “No body’s perfect and I know that. But we will get through this together.” 

Tim squeezes her hand and she pulls onto their street and then into their driveway before she puts it in park and turns to him. 

“I need you Tim. I want you. You can’t leave me yet or every? Okay?” She says. “Please don’t leave me.”

Tim leans over so he can kiss her but winces a little. It doesn’t stop him through, he leans in and kisses her. “I wasn’t planning on it Luce.” He says softly. “I’m not going anywhere. And we will get through this okay?” 

“Okay.” 

“You can’t leave me either though.” He says cupping her face. “You are kind of stuck with me.”

“Good.” She whispers. “Because you are stuck with me too. Forever and always.” Tim’s face light up a little bit.

She knows this is going to be a long road ahead of them but she has confidence that he won’t leave her. She has confidence that they would get through this together.

But only together. 

Only together. 

Notes:

Up next: Tim and Lucy remind each other to get some sleep.

Chapter 12: You need sleep

Summary:

Tim and Lucy remind each other to sleep.

Notes:

Enjoy!! 🩷

[“Even a soul submerged in sleep is hard at work and helps make something of the world.” — Heraclitus, Greek Philosopher.]

***

“Tim.” Lucy says coming into the living room where her boyfriend is sitting at the table staring at the papers in front of him. “What are you doing?” Tim barely looks and he mumbles something Lucy can’t understand.

She makes her way over to him and stands next to him looking down at the papers. “I’m just seeing what they have on Ramos.” He says. Lucy sighs and sits next to him. “If I could find something—”

“That’s not your responsibility.” Lucy says softly. “Angela even said we both need to stay away from this.”

“And I have been.” Tim says and gestures to his leg which was still in a cast. His leg was healing and while it was in a full cast anymore he was still off the job for a few more weeks. “But there has to be something—just to point us towards him.” 

“Babe.” Lucy says and as much as she wants to catch this guy too she knows obsessing over it won’t help. “You can’t obsess over this okay? Obsessing over it won’t solve this any faster.” Tim sighs and pushes the papers away and then turns to look at her.

“Then what do you suggest I do?” He asks. Lucy stands up and pulls him up with her. She hands him one of his crutches and then pulls him to follow her. 

“There’s nothing we can do right now.” She says and she pauses looking at him up and down. He looks exhausted and she knows exactly what he needs. “You need sleep.” 

“So we go to bed?” Tim asks sounding doubtful as if he doesn’t believe that will help but she knows it’s exactly what he needs. At least for now. 

“Yes.” She says leaning up to give him a kiss. “Get some sleep and refresh your mind.” 

“Fine.” He says softly. “I guess I am a little tired.” He lets out a little yawn as if proving both their points.

“Good.” She says as they get to the bedroom. “I know this is hard Tim being off from work and not being in the loop but Angela is handling it.”

“I know.” He says. “I just don’t want anyone else to get hurt. Especially you.” 

“I will be okay.” She says. “I’m worried about you.” Tim sighs and puts the crutch aside. 

“I’m sorry for worrying you.” He says. “This whole thing was a mess.” Lucy nods as Tim sits on the bed and Lucy helps him get into it. It has been stressful but they were working through it together. And that’s all that matters to her.

“It has been.” She says leaning down go give him a kiss. “But we got this. They will catch Ramos and this will all be over.” Tim nods and she moves around the bed to join him. 

“I love you.” She says cuddling into his side. She loves the feeling of him pressed against her. It makes her feel safe. 

“I love you too.” 

***

“You need sleep.” Tim says to Lucy. She looks like she’s barely keeping her eyes open as she slumps into the kitchen for some coffee.

“I know.” She mumbles putting her head on the counter. “But we are so close to catching Ramos and Angela finally let me on. And we have been working all night—”

“I know.” Tim says coming over to wrap himself around her and kissing her neck. “I miss you in bed next to me.” 

Lucy turns around to face him, and he sees the lines under her eyes. “I’m sorry. But if I can catch the son of bitch who hurt you I will. I’m not going to stop.” She says fiercely and Tim believes her. 

“Thank you baby.” He mutters. He brings her up to kiss him and they stay like that for a little. He knows if someone hurt Lucy, he would go out of his mind trying to find the person. He would never give up. 

She was trying to find Ramos for him and it was especially hard because he couldn’t be with her. He still had a week at home, his leg was out of a cast and just in a brace but still—

“Of course.” She says. “That’s what you do for the person you love. You fight for them no matter what.”

“God.” He mutters and he’s not sure he’s ever loved her more than in this moment. “I love you so much.”

“I love you too Tim.” She says softly. “Now what did you say about sleep?” Tim laughs and pulls her towards the bedroom.

“You need sleep. I need sleep.” He says. “Let’s get some sleep.” Tim pulls her closer and gives her a kiss on the top of her head.

He’s not sure when this whole thing will be put to rest but they are getting there and for right now with Lucy by his side he can live with that.

***

“Tim.” Lucy says a little breathless into the phone. “Guess what?” She hears some rustling over the line and then Tim speaks. 

“What’s going on?” He asks. Lucy bounces on her toes feeling like she is floating on air. 

“We got Ramos.” She says. “We caught him Tim. It’s over.” She hears Tim suck in a small breath and then let it out.

“Really?” Tim asks and he sounds just as excited and she can picture the small smile that was no doubt on his face. “You got him?”

“Technically Angela caught him.” Lucy says still feeling like she’s floating. “But it was a team effort. But he’s in prison along with all the other lowlifes.”

“This is great.” He says. “Amazing.” Lucy giggles a little and she wishes she was next to Tim right now so she can hug him.

It’s over.

It’s over. 

“I know.” Lucy says. “I will be home soon and then we can celebrate.” 

“Mmm.” Tim says and she starts walking towards the locker room. “I have some good news too. Do you want it now or when you get home?”

Lucy pauses and leans against the wall. “Do tell.” She says. Tim lets out a laugh and she continues to walk waiting for him to speak.

“My doctor cleared me to go back to work.” He says. “As soon as tomorrow. As long as I take it easy.”

“That’s amazing Tim.” She says. And she hurries to her locker. She wants to get home now, she wants to be in Tim’s presence. “I’m so proud of you. You have come so far.”

“It hasn’t been easy.” He admits. “Frustrating and disappointing but you helped me through it.”

“You are amazing.” She says and she thinks about how hard it had been for Tim. He knew he had to heal, but he wanted nothing more than to be on the job. “You didn’t the work yourself.” 

Tim is silent for a few seconds before he speaks again. “Just get home to me safely okay?” Tim says. “And then we can celebrate.” Lucy lets out a laugh because that sounds perfect to her.

Absolutely perfect.

***

“Luce.” Tim says as he comes out into the living room. Lucy is slumped over some books in front of her and she looks like she could topple over at any minute. “What are you doing?” She barely looks up at him.

“Nothing.” She mumbles. “Just some reading.” Tim looks at the microwave clock and sees it’s barely 2am.

“At 2am?” He asks sitting down next to her. “What’s going on?” Lucy does look up at him this time. She chews on her bottom lip and then leans forward on her elbows.

“Now that Ramos is caught—I feel like I’m at a standstill. It was all I was focused on for weeks. You and Ramos. And I feel like I need to focus on something else.” 

Tim raises his eyebrows at her and closes one of the books in front of her. Gardening for dummies. 

“And you thought this was the best plan?” He asks a little amused. 

“I didn’t say it was a good idea.” She mumbles. “I just need a distraction.” 

“Why didn’t you just say so?” Tim asks smirking at her. He is a master distractor and she knows it and loves it.

“You were asleep and you need sleep.” She says yawning. “Besides it’s not the kind of distraction that I needed.” 

“Hmm.” Tim says moving closer to her. “It usually works.” Lucy turns to face him and brings him in for a kiss.

“I love when you distract me.” She mutters pressing her forehead against his. “I just need to go back to work I guess and get back into the groove of things.” 

“You will.” Tim reassures her. “You’re an amazing sergeant. You helped get Ramos. You never gave up on it. You never gave up on me. And I know whatever comes next you will excel at it.” 

Tim wraps himself around Lucy when she doesn’t reply pressing a kiss into her hair. “Yeah.” She mutters and lets out another yawn. 

“You need sleep.” Tim says tugging her up and into him. “Let’s get some sleep.” Lucy follows him without question. 

They get to the bedroom and they both settle into bed. Tim pulls Lucy closer to him and she curls up into him. 

It’s silent for a few minutes and he hears her breathing even out. He gives her another kiss and then he speaks again. 

“Get some sleep.” He mutters. “You need it.” Lucy doesn’t reply for a few seconds and he almost thinks she fell asleep and then:

“Goodnight Tim.” 

“Goodnight Lucy.”

 

Notes:

Up next: Tim and Lucy wonder where the other is.

Chapter 13: Where are you?

Summary:

RATED T just in case

Tim and Lucy asking where the other is.

Notes:

RATED T just in case

Sorry this took a few days to update! I do hope everyone is still enjoying this story! 🩷

[I exist in two places, here, and where you are.– Margaret Atwood.]

***

“Where are you?” Lucy asks running her fingers through her hair. She runs her hand across her sweaty forehead and gives a loud cough. 

“I’m at the store.” Tim says. “I wanted to pick up a few things. How do you feel?” 

“Awful.” She mutters. “And I miss you.” She hears Tim chuckle and the sound of the grocery basket going down an aisle. 

“I’m getting you a few things to hopefully make you feel better.” He says. “Some soup, some tea. Anything else?” Lucy closes her eyes because both those things sounded both wonderful and awful at the same time.

“Ice cream.” She says. “Anything they have. Lactose free.” 

“Lucy. We are trying to get you better.” Tim says but she already knows he’s headed to the ice cream aisle. 

“Ice cream will make me feel better.” She says. “And you. I wanted you too.” Tim chuckles and she hears a door close.

“I will be home soon baby.” He says. “Just stay put.” Lucy burrows further into the couch, she has no desire to move from this spot. Not until Tim forces her to move anyway.

“Okay.” She says sleepily. “I will see you soon.” They say goodbye and Lucy tosses her phone aside. She feels her eyes slowly closing, and she pulls the blanket up more. She was just going to rest her eyes for a little bit. 

She just needs to rest and Tim.

***

Tim comes home to Lucy passed out on the sofa. She has kicked the blanket off and it’s on the floor all wadded up. He sigh softly and picks it up and then puts it aside. And then gently shakes her awake. It takes a few seconds for her to come to but then she’s looking up at him blinking sleepily.

“Hi.” She mumbles her voice. “You are home.” Tim nods and presses a kiss to her forehead grimacing when he feels it’s still warm.

“I am.” He mutters. “Do you feel any better?” Lucy sits up a bit and then shakes her head.

“No.” She says. “But I could use some cuddles.” Tim smiles and sits down on the couch motioning her towards him. She goes right away and curls into him. 

“Better?” He asks.

“A little bit.” She mutters. “Thank you for taking care of me.”

“I will always take care of you.” He mutters. “I hate that you are sick but I will always take care of you.” 

“I like the sound of that.” She mutters. “You are the best.” Tim hums softly and pulls her more into his side.

“You are the best too Luce.” He mutters. “Now get some sleep baby. I will be here when you wake up okay?”

“Okay.” She mumbles. He waits for her breathing to even out and soon she’s fast asleep in his arms. 

And maybe everything would be okay because wherever Lucy was, he knows he would be right there.

***

Tim paces in front of the station’s doors willing Lucy to walk through them. There had been a call on the radio, it was Lucy asking for backup. And then it went silent for way longer than Tim liked and then Lucy came back over the radio and it was all clear. 

Tim had sighed in relief knowing Lucy was okay and he wasn’t on his way to the hospital. And he thought it was over.

Except.

She wasn’t back yet and it made him anxious. Why wasn’t she back? Did something else happen? Where was she?

He pulls out his phone and presses on her name, his heart nearly in his stomach. She answers on the first ring which does little to calm his nerves.

“Where are you?” He asks before she can say anything. Lucy takes a deep breath over the phone and then lets it out.

“The hospital but—”

“Are you okay? Why are you—” He says in a rush. He feels like the ground is about to come and swallow him whole.

“I’m fine.” Lucy says reassuringly. “I just wanted to make sure the victims were okay. They were shaken up.”

Tim lets out a relieved breath. “That’s good.” He says softly. “You are a good sergeant Lucy.”

“Just doing my job.” She says. “I’m sorry I worried you but I should be back soon.” 

“Okay.” Tim says and he runs his fingers through his hair and closes his eyes briefly. 

“I’ll see you soon.” He says and he can’t help but add: “I love you.”

Lucy lets out a sigh, a happy sigh. “I love you too.”

***

Lucy gets back to the station fifteen minutes after the phone call with Tim. She finds him right away and drags him to the empty metro office. 

“Are you okay?” He asks as she paces around the small space. He stops her and she looks up at him blinking a few times. 

“It was a close call.” She says thinking how she was the one who almost ended up in the hospital. “I thought about how you were going to get the call and—” she stops and shakes her head a little.

Tim takes a step forward and suddenly he’s crowding her space but it’s exactly what she needs. “I know.” He says softly. “It wasn’t fun for me either. I’m just glad you are okay.”

“Yeah.” She says and she’s grateful that she has Tim to come home to. She has Tim who was waiting with open arms. 

“You are okay right?” Tim asks her. She nods and he pulls her into his embrace. She’s still a little shaken up but she’s okay. 

“I’m okay.” She reassures him. Tim makes a soft noise and presses a kiss to the top of her head. “I’m okay.” 

She will be okay and that’s all that matters. 

***

“Where are you?” Lucy mutters as she paces in front of the door. “And why the hell aren’t you answering the phone.”

Tim was gone at some training for a few days, and while it had been hard. Lucy distracted herself with work and stuff that needed to be done at the house. She took Kojo for walks, she cleaned up every room of the house and once she had done all that—

It just felt empty without Tim, she felt empty without Tim. It felt like there a missing piece to her puzzle that she needed.

She takes her phone out and presses on his name. It rings and rings and then—

“Hello?” 

“Where are you?” Lucy asks. “You were suppose to be home—”

“Look behind you.” Tim says. Lucy freezes and then turns on her heels almost dropping her phone when she sees Tim behind her.

“Oh my god.” She says walking towards him. He sweeps her up into his arms and she buries her face into his chest. “How did you—”

“Backdoor.” Tim says and Lucy looks up to see the backdoor open slightly. “I wanted to surprise you when you got home but you got home before me.”

“Sorry.” She mutters looking up at him . “I’m happy you are home.” Tim smiles at her and backs her towards the couch. He takes her phone and hangs up on himself and then tosses both their phones aside.

“I know. Me too.” He says. “You are coming with me next time. The trainings are very informative and there’s a lot of downtime.” 

“Oh?” Lucy asks raising her eyebrows. “That sounds fun.” Tim hums softly and they fall on the couch together.

“I missed you.” He says. “I’m sorry I was gone so long.” Lucy shakes her head because it’s not his fault. He was just doing his job, and she was so proud of him for being leader he was.

“It’s not your fault Tim.” She says. “I just don’t like being apart.” 

“Me neither baby.” He says and he pulls her in close. She curls up around him and sighs happily. She’s grateful to have him at her side again, grateful she won’t be going to bed alone tonight. There’s a long stretch of silence before Tim speaks.

“What do you want to do now?” He asks. Lucy shifts in his arms because this right here was perfect for her.

“This is good.” She says. “Just being here with you.” Tim shifts too and she feels him press a kiss to the top of her head.

“Okay.” He says softly. “This will do for now.” Lucy nods and slowly closes her eyes. They would have to get up at some point but for now this was perfect.

Because wherever Tim was she knows she would be okay. 

***

“Lucy?” Tim calls from the front door. He pauses and drops all his tiff in the entryway and then steps further into the house. “Where are you?” There’s a beat of silence and then he hears her voice from the bedroom.

“Come here!” She calls. Tim hurries towards the bedroom and pauses at the doorway when he sees Lucy. She’s laying on the bed in nothing but a lacy bra and panties. His jaw drops a little as he steps forward into the room. He’s surprised he can even move.

“What is this? What are you doing?” He asks. Lucy stands up and slides off the bed walking towards him with a smile on her face.

“Waiting for you.” She says as she approaches him. She reaches out for him and pulls him in. 

“Oh.” He says giving her a once over and then bringing his eyes to her face. “You look amazing.” 

Lucy grins at him, and brings him down for a kiss. “Do I?” She asks and there’s still a smirk on her face. “Do you want to show me how amazing I look?” Tim swallows hard this time bending down to kiss her. He runs his hand down her bare back and pulls her closer.

“Sure.” He mutters against her lips. “Only if I get to take this off of you.” Lucy gives him a look and he doesn’t waste a second more. He backs her towards the bed and she falls down on it, he crawls up with her and then hovers over. 

“Amazing.” He mutters as he swoops down to kiss her. “Amazing.” Lucy hums against his lips and he feels a rush of overwhelming want wash over him. 

He wants this—he wants her for the rest of his life. As long as she will have him and he hopes it’s forever. 

He wants this. 

He wants her.

He needs her.

“You are amazing.” Lucy mutters as he kisses her down her body. “I love you. No matter where you are.” 

“I love you too.” He says pausing to look up at her. “No matter where you are.” Lucy pulls him down into a kiss and wraps her legs around him. 

And he knows this will be a very good night with Lucy by his side.

Notes:

Up next: Tim & Lucy and the kisses between them.

Chapter 14: Let’s just kiss

Summary:

Kisses shared between Tim and Lucy

Notes:

This is just a sweet little chapter. Very fluffy 😌🥰

[This kiss, this kiss. Unstoppable.This kiss, this kiss.]

***

“How was your—” Tim starts but before he can finish Lucy is kissing him. She backs him into his truck. Her arms go around his neck and he knows he’s trapped. 

Not that he minds.

“It was fine.” Lucy says tugging him down. “Let’s just kiss.” Tim reels back a little but doesn’t argue with her. He’s not sure he would be able to if he tried because kissing Lucy was like getting oxygen over and over again.

“That’s good.” He mutters as she continues to kiss him. It’s soft and sweet and he knows she could take it further but she won’t. Not until they get home at least.

“How was your day?” She asks pulling back. Her cheeks are flushed, her lips swollen and she has a soft smile on her face.

“It was fine… and then you did this.” He says gesturing between them. Lucy raises her eyebrows at him. 

“Are you complaining?” She asks smirking at him a little. “Because we can stop—”

“No!” Tim says quickly. “I’m not complaining!” Lucy laughs and pulls him down for another kiss.

“Okay then.” Lucy says smiling at him. “Let’s just kiss.” Tim feels his heart swell a little and he swoops down to kiss her again.

And it was oh so good.

***

Lucy wakes up to Tim shuffling around the bed and she groans as she rolls over. “What are you doing?” She asks as she watches him kick the blanket off. “You aren’t leaving me are you?” Tim turns to look at her, his eyebrows raised. 

“I’m going to make you some coffee.” He says. Lucy blows out a unsatisfied breath.

“Come here.” She says. Tim doesn’t move for a minute but then moves in closer to her. She pulls him in when he’s close enough and kisses him. He seems surprised at first and then he kisses her back.

“What was that for?” He asks pressing his forehead against hers. He pulls her in closer to him, and she slots her leg in between his.

“I don’t know.” She says. She draws a line down his chest. “I just wanted to kiss you.” 

“Oh?” Tim asks raising his eyebrows. “What about coffee?” Lucy shakes her head and while she would love some of Tim’s coffee because it woke her up and kept her energized. She just wants to stay in bed with Tim for the time being. 

“Let’s just kiss.” Lucy says. “Kiss now, coffee later.” Tim chuckles and pulls her in closer.

“I like the sound of that.” He mutters softly. “Let’s just kiss.” They would have to get up at some point and get ready for the day but for now—

This was perfect— kissing Tim, being tangled up in Tim. This is all she wanted for the rest of her life.

***

“Lucy.” Tim says softly as he walks into the bedroom. Lucy is curled up underneath the sheets. “Baby, are you—”

“I’m fine.” Lucy says her voice muffled. Tim sighs and sits on the edge of the bed. He waits a minute knowing Lucy would eventually talk to him. 

“What are you doing then?” He asks. Lucy sits up and looks at him. She looks exhausted like she hadn’t slept in days which was probably accurate. Grey had asked her to run the night shift team again but only for a few days. Apparently the dream team was making life difficult for the new night sergeant and Grey thought Lucy could whip them into shape. 

“Sleeping.” She mutters. “Or trying to.” Tim hums sympathetically and makes his way up to her. 

“What do you need baby?” He asks gently. She doesn’t answer for a few minutes before she finally turns to look at him. 

“You.” She says and she pulls him down to her level. “Let’s just kiss.” Tim doesn’t have time to question her before she’s pulling him into a kiss. He instantly melts into it and he feels some of her tension melt away. 

He pulls back first and she gives him a wounded look. “I thought you were tired.” He mumbles brushing his fingers through her hair.

“I am.” She says. “I just needed a little pick me up.” Tim raises his eyebrows at her as a grin spreads across her face.

“Really?”

“Yes.” She says. “So can we go back to kissing please?” He doesn’t waste another second before he’s kissing her again. This time they don’t pull back for a while until it’s necessary to breath. Lucy pulls back this time and Tim reaches to tuck some hair behind her ear.

“You are going to get through this Lucy. I know this isn’t the easiest job.” He says. “But you are a great leader.”

“Wish I could be a leader on the day shift.” She mutters. Tim laughs and presses a kiss to her forehead. 

“Me too. I miss you during the day.” He says. “But it’s only a few more nights right?” Lucy nods and pulls away from 

“Two more nights.” She says. Tim sighs and brings her closer, pressing a kiss to the top of her head. 

“It’s going to get better Luce. But for now let’s just—”

“Kiss?” She finishes for him. Tim nods and she kisses him first this time. 

Let’s just kiss. 

***

“You are infuriating.” Lucy snaps at Tim as she glares at him for across the table. “Infuriating.” Tim rolls her eyes at her and she lets out a frustrated breath as he puts down a card.

“Why?” He asks. “Because I keep winning at Uno? It’s not that hard Luce.” Lucy rolls her eyes and puts down another card.

“No because you keep changing the color and making me pick up cards. I was this close to wining Bradford.”

“Better luck next time.” He says teasingly. “I guess you just don’t have my skill level.” Now Lucy rolls her eyes, and she wants to wipe the smug look off his face. 

This has started like any other night at home. They made dinner, watched TV and then Lucy had found the Uno cards and suggested that they play. 

So it was really her fault. 

They were both competitive and Lucy knew that.

“You better get that smug look off your face.” She mutters slapping down a card. “Or—”

“Or what Luce?” Tim asks. She looks up just as he puts down a draw four card.

“Green.” He says smirking at her. Lucy mutters something under her breath and draws four cards.

“You suck.” 

“You love me.” He says. And Lord knows that’s true. No matter how frustrated she got at Tim, no matter how annoying he was. She loves him more than anything. 

“I do.” She says. “For now. But if you keep making me draw four—” She pauses and looks up to see Tim just staring at her a fond look on his face. 

“What?”

“Come here.” He says. Lucy doesn’t move for a few minutes. “Lucy.” She finally gets up and makes her way over to Tim. 

“What?”

Tim stands up and pulls her close. She immediately melts into his embrace because she can’t help it. 

He kisses her first and she melts even more into his touch. He pulls back with a smirk on his face and he speaks before she can say anything. “Let’s just kiss.” He says and she he kisses her again forgetting about the frustrating uno game and completely being at Tim’s will.

Lucy pulls back and shakes her head at him, he really did know how to sweeten her up. 

Not that she minds. 

Not that she minds at all.

“What?” Tim asks grinning at her. “Did you not like that?” Lucy rolls her eyes and pulls him back in for a kiss.

“What do you think?” She asks. Tim laughs but doesn’t move in to kiss her again. Instead he just smirks at her and she’s tempted to hit his chest.

“I don’t think you liked it.” He teases her. She does hit him in the chest this time and he catches her hands and holds them.

“Shut up and kiss me.” She says and Tim leans in to kiss her and it’s like everything is right in the world. Everything is balanced and it’s perfect. 

Tim might be infuriating and annoying but she wouldn’t trade him for the world. He was what kept her balanced and stable. And he was everything and more.

And so were his kisses—they kept her world spinning. And gets him and his kisses for the rest of her life.

Let’s just kiss.

Let’s just kiss. 

Notes:

Up next: The respect Tim and Lucy have for each other. Past & present.

Chapter 15: I respect you

Summary:

The respect Lucy and Tim have for each other. Past and present.

Notes:

Halfway through? (Maybe— if I don’t add anymore chapters lol)

I hope everyone is still enjoying!

[Respect is one of the greatest expressions of love." — Don Miguel Ruiz]

***

“I respect you.” Lucy says to Tim as she enters the kitchen. Tim is at the counter with a box of chocolate croissants in front of him. Lucy’s mouth waters at the mere sight of them. 

Damn Tim and how well he knows her. And loves her. 

Damn him.

“Good to know.” Tim says grinning as he pushes a cup of tea in front of her. She grabs it and holds it on tight as she glances at the box of croissants. 

“But damn you.” She says as she sits down in front of the box of croissants. “Why did you get these?”

Tim raises his eyebrows at her but shrugs his shoulders. “I wanted to get you a treat. You deserve it.” Lucy raises her eyebrows at him this time feeling a little like he was trying to make up for something. 

“Still.” She reaches in and grabs a croissant out of the box. She takes a bite of it and she’s not sure she’s loved Tim more than right now. “Have I told you I love and respect you?” She asks. “Because I do. I really do.” Tim laughs as she continues to eat, and she’s feels her heart swell up a little. 

She never thought she would ever have this with someone. And the absolute joy of having it with the man she loves more than anything was just a cherry on top. 

“Hey.” Tim nudges her with a soft smile on his face. “You good?” Lucy chews on her bottom lip , and then leans across the counter to press a kiss to his lips. She has never been happier than she is right now with Tim. She has her man, she has a job she loves and a a house she can call—home.

It’s perfect.

“Absolutely.” She mutters. “Absolutely.” 

***

“Do what you have to do.” Tim tells Lucy who is pacing his old office. “If you need to punish him then do it.”

“But he’s your rookie.” Lucy says coming to a stop in front of him. “Do I even have a right to punish him?” 

“I respect you.” Tim says. “I trust you and it is well in your right Lucy. You are a sergeant and he was riding with you.” 

Tim had some training so he had asked her to take Miles for the day. He figured it would be good for both of them. It would give Miles a break from him, and it would give Lucy a chance to practice being a leader.

“Okay but—” Lucy pauses And Tim can practically see the wheels turning in her hand. “He’s a good cop.”

“He will be a good cop.” Tim confirms. “And he’s doing a good job right now but it doesn’t mean he can’t make mistakes.” 

Lucy shakes her head, and starts pacing the officer again. Tim reaches out to stop her, she looks up at him a worried look in her eyes.

“Whatever you decide Sergeant Chen.” He pauses and he sees a smile twitch on her lips. “I will stand behind you and I will respect it.”

“Okay.” She says and once again he can see the wheels turning in her head. He knows she’s wrestling with being empathetic and being stern. He knows it’s a hard decision for her to make. “Thank you.” 

He nods just as Miles comes walking up to them. He looks nervous as his eyes go between Lucy and Tim. 

“Sergeant Chen you wanted to see me?” He asks. Tim backs off a little knowing this was Lucy’s thing.

“You are a good cop.” Lucy says standing up straight her eyes on Miles’s face. “But you need to think before you make a move. What happened today could have gotten you hurt or worse.”

“Yes ma’am.” miles says and his eyes dart to Tim but then goes back to Lucy as if he knows Tim won’t help him. “I am sorry. I just thought—”

“You didn’t think.” Lucy says. “You did what you thought was the right move but the man had a gun Officer Penn.”

“Yes ma’am.” Miles says hanging his head. “I will do better.” Lucy nods and turns to look at Tim who gives her an encouraging smile.

“I’m not letting this slide completely.” Lucy says. “You will be doing all the paperwork that comes across my desk for a couple of days.”

“Yes ma’am.” 

“You can go now.” Lucy says. Miles doesn’t waste any time, he turns and walks away as fast as he can.

“Too lenient? Too harsh?” Lucy asks Tim as soon as Miles is out of sight. Tim shakes his head and steps closer.

“He has to learn.” Tim says. “And we all have different training methods. One isn’t better than the other. I think him doing your paperwork is perfect.” Lucy smiles at him and he wants to kiss her but they are at work. 

And they have to at least act professional.

“Good to know.” She says.  Tim does step closer and reaches out to touch her shoulder. He gives it a squeeze and she looks up at him.

“Like I said Lucy.” He says trying to keep his voice soft. “I respect you. You are a good Sergeant. And Penn respects you too. Just do what you think is best. I will always be here to help you.”

Lucy nods and gives him a smile. 

“Thank you.” She says again and he can only hope she knows how much he respects and loves her. 

No matter what.

They might have their ups and downs but as long as that love and respect was there they could get through anything.

***

“Tim.” Lucy says shaking him a little. “Are you awake?” Tim groans a little and rolls over to face her.

“I am now.” He grumbles. “It’s not 5am yet. Why are you awake?” Lucy rolls her eyes and scoots closer to him. She is only in his shirt that he threw on the floor last night. Her hair is tousled from him running his fingers through it and she looks pretty wide awake for having a pretty active night.

“I wanted to ask you something.” She says. Tim raises his eyebrows at her and she slots her leg between his so he wouldn’t move. 

“What?”

“You know how you said you respect me the other day with the whole Miles’s situation?” She asks. Tim nods giving her a weird look. 

“Sure.” He says. Lucy scoots even closer and he can feel the fabric of the shirt against his bare skin. He can’t help but move his hands up underneath the shirt and spreading his hand across her belly. 

She looks a little stunned for a minute but then she gets a look of determination on her face. “Did you respect me as a rookie?” She asks and Tim freezes as he looks up at her. “Did you trust me?” He furrows his brows wondering where this came from. He always had a respect for Lucy, whether it was big or little. She was the one who broke down his wall little by little. She was the one who stopped him from ruining his career because of Isabel. 

She barely knew him. 

And maybe it wasn’t like the respect he had for her today. But he still respected her back then the more he got to know her. 

“Yes.” He says. “It took awhile but yes Lucy. You were different. You never gave up on me. You pushed through even when I pushed you away.” Lucy blinks at him as if she was expecting a different answer.

“Really?”

“I know I never showed it.” He says. “But you earned my respect and trust. I know you will always have my back.”

“Always at your six.” She says softly reaching out to touch his cheek. “Always.” 

“Did you respect me?” He asks and he’s a little nervous. He knows how he treated her when she was a rookie and he’s not always proud of it but—

“Yes.” Lucy says. “I complained about you—a lot. But I know you were just training me to be a good cop. And after awhile I realized it wasn’t to punish me but to help me.” 

“Yeah.” He mumbles. “And look at you now. You are a sergeant.” Lucy grins at him and pulls him down for a kiss.

“Are you trying to take credit for me Bradford?” She asks teasingly. Tim trails his hands up higher. 

“Maybe.” He says and he feels her shiver when his finger brushes her nipple. “Maybe I am.” Lucy moans softly as he pushes the shirt up and then flips over so he’s hovering above her.

“Maybe you should take credit for making us late to work.” She says as he swoops down to kiss her. 

Tim pushes the shirt all the way up and soon it’s on the floor once again. 

“I have no problem with that.” He says softly. Lucy just pulls him down to kiss her again and he knows it’s going to be a very fun morning indeed.

***

“Why are we doing this again?” Tim grumbles as he pulls into the restaurant parking lot. Lucy looks over at him with an amused look on her face.

“Rodge just got back from tour.” Lucy says. “Celina wanted to do a double date since we are back together.”

“We have been back together for months.” Tim says. “We live together…” Lucy rolls her eyes and reaches out to grab his hand.

“I know babe.” Lucy says. “But it’s one night and it might be fun. Rodge has been all over the world… sort of.” 

Tim sighs but Lucy knows he’s going to go along no matter what because she knows he loves and respects her.

“I respect you.” Tim says. “And I love you. But I swear if he pulls out his guitar.” Lucy laughs and leans over to kiss him. 

“I will find us a way out.” She says. “I promise.” Tim studies her for a minute and she sees a smile playing on his lips.

“You better.” He says And then he gets a soft smile on his face. “You know I love you right? And I wouldn’t do this with anyone else.”

“I know.” She says softly. “Thank you for doing this with me.” Tim nods and leans over to give her a kiss. 

“Of course.” He says softly and even though she knows this isn’t his first choice. He would do anything for her. 

Because love and respect went hand in hand and Lucy would do anything for Tim too. 

Tim climbs out of the truck and Lucy follows. She meets him around the front of the truck and she takes his hand. 

“Ready?” Lucy asks him. Tim shrugs his shoulders and they start making their way to the restaurant. 

And maybe this wouldn’t be so bad after all.

I love you. I respect you. 

I love you. I respect you. 

Notes:

Tim and Lucy get into some fights. And they both say three important words.

Chapter 16: I am sorry

Summary:

Tim and Lucy get in a fight and makeup. Three important words are said.

Notes:

This one is a little longer and has a little angst but nonetheless I hope you enjoy! 💙

[I love you, I’m sorry.]

“Do you not trust me?” Lucy says her voice low and full of warning. “I know my limits.” Tim takes a step forward and then a step back when he sees the look on Lucy’s face. 

“I do trust you Lucy.” He says his voice full of conviction and he hopes she believes him. It had been a hard day all around for both of them. There was a prisoner escape and Lucy was put in charge but then she got hurt and Tim took over thinking she would take a step back and sit out for the rest of the day. 

But he was wrong.

And when he tried to reason with her, tried to tell her to take a break it had turned into a full blown argument that led them to not talking for the rest of the day

And now they were at home—and they were talking but it wasn’t going anywhere.

“Then why do you always insist on protecting me? When I can do things on my own? I know how to handle it Tim.” She says. “I was in charge and—” She shakes her head and pushes past him to go into the kitchen.

“I was trying to help you out Lucy.” He says keeping his voice level. “I wanted you to rest and not push yourself. You fractured your foot. You can’t just jump back into work.” 

“We were on a time crunch.” Lucy says slamming a glass down on the counter. “I wasn’t going to let a fractured foot slow me down especially when I could have prevented it.”

Tim sighs and shakes his head as he watches her pour water into the glass. It wasn’t Lucy’s fault, it wasn’t anyone ones fault she got hurt. It was a freak accident and as much as it pained him to see her in pain he knows making her sit out was for the best. 

“It’s not your fault Luce.” He says. Lucy doesn’t seem to hear him, she just takes a sip of the water and slams it back down.

“Well you didn’t need to bench me. I was just trying to do my damn job.” She says. She pushes past him again and he follows her. She has her back turned to him but he can see her slipping on her shoes and grabbing her keys and bag.

“Where are you going?” He asks his stomach flipping over a little. “Lucy—”

“I’m going to stay at the apartment.” She says. “I can’t do this right now.” Tim’s heart sinks a little and he feels nauseous as he watches her unlock the door.

“Lucy.” He says hoping he doesn’t sound like he’s pleading. “Don’t leave. We can work this out.” 

“I’ll call you later.” She says taking a deep breath. “I just need a minute to breath Tim.” Tim doesn’t say anything as he watches her walk through the door. The door closes behind her, and it feels like he has had the wind knocked out of him. He didn’t mean for it to get this far, he didn’t mean to make it seem like she couldn’t do her job. 

I am sorry. I am sorry. 

***

Lucy sighs as she lays out on the couch and she hears Celina bustling around in the kitchen. She just wanted this day to be over and she wanted to start over tomorrow. 

And usually when she had a bad day she would go to Tim but he was the one person she felt like she couldn’t go to right now because she messed everything up.

“You know I don’t mind you staying here.” Celina says. Lucy looks up and sees her standing above her. “But I think you should go home and talk with Tim.”

“We did talk.” She mutters. “But all I did was yell at him and he just stood there.”

“Well maybe you should try and not yell.” Celina suggests. Lucy shoots her a look and then pulls a pillow over her face. 

“It just felt like he was trying to undermine me.” She says. “He’s always trying to protect me when he knows I can handle it.” Celina comes around and sit down on the sofa next to where her foot is propped up.

“He loves you.” She says. Lucy looks at her, and Celina just shrugs. “Maybe he was right to bench you or maybe not. But he was looking after you Lucy.” 

“He’s stubborn.” She says and puts the pillow back over her face. 

“So are you.” Celina says. “Are you not going to talk to him because you know he’s right or—?” Lucy pulls the pillow away from her and closes her eyes. She knows deep down Tim wasn’t trying to hurt her, or undermine her in anyway. She knows he was worried about her and pushing herself too hard but—

She was determined to get the job done—whether she has a fractured foot or not. She didn’t want anything to slow her down even though something was quite literally slowing her down.

“I don’t know.” She mutters. “Maybe it is stupid but—” She’s interrupted by her phone buzzing and she picks it up to see it’s Tim calling. She hits reject and throws her phone down and covers her face again.

She knows she will have to go home at some point and work this out with Tim. She wasn’t going to run away from her problems forever.

“Just talk to him Lucy.” Celina says. “It’s better than not talking. You two have come a long ways. Don’t mess it up now.” Lucy sighs and she knows Celina is right. Tim worked so hard on opening up to her, he worked so hard on not being closed off and it was so much better for them. 

And now—

She sits up and grabs her phone. She has the missed call from Tim but nothing else. She presses his name and she can only hope he answers. He picks up on the first ring. 

“Lucy.” He says and she breathes a sigh of relief. “Are you okay?” Lucy rubs at her temple. Of course he’s still worried about her.

“I’m fine.” She says. “I just needed time to think.” There’s a long pause and Lucy doesn’t hear him for several seconds.

“And?” He says finally. Lucy blows out a breath and looks over to see Celina has disappeared. 

“I don’t want to do this over the phone.” She says. “I want to talk and not yell.”

“Okay.” Tim says. “I will be right over.” Lucy sits up a bit feeling a little confused. 

“I was going to come home—” She starts but Tim cuts her off. 

“How’s your foot?” He asks. She looks down and sees her foot is swollen and it’s throbbing. She’s been so focused on being mad at Tim she barely noticed. 

“It hurts.” She admits. “But I—” 

“I’m coming over.” Tim says his voice firm and she doesn’t have the energy to argue. 

“Okay.” She mutters. “I love you.” She hears Tim blow out a breath and she closes her eyes wondering if she really did mess it all up.

“I love you too.” He says. “Always.” Lucy breathes a sigh of relief and her shoulders relax a little. 

It was going to be okay. 

It was going to be okay.

***

Tim is at the apartment in less than fifteen minutes and he hopes Celina is home so Lucy doesn’t have to get up. The door opens and Celina just steps aside to let him in. Tim goes over to the couch where Lucy is laid out snd his eyes go to her foot immediately. It’s swollen just like he thought it would be.

He bends down and gives her a kiss and then hurries to the kitchen and opens the freezer pulling out a ice pack. He goes back to the couch and sits down pulling Lucy’s leg on top of his lap and then putting the ice pack on her foot.

“Thank you.” She mutters. He nods and adjusts the ice pack and then looks over at her. 

“Lucy.” He starts but she cuts him off with a shake of her head.

“I am sorry.” She says. “I was so focused on getting the job done and being able to do it myself. I didn’t realized you were just worried about me.”

“I was.” He says and he massages her foot a little bit. “I wasn’t trying to undermine you or take over your case.”

“I know that.” Lucy says and she looks a little defeated. “I know. I just was so close and then—”

“Accidents happen Lucy.” He says. “And sometimes they are out of our control. Sometimes you have to let things go. And let others help you out once in awhile.” 

“I know.” Lucy says and she runs her hand over her face. “I am sorry Tim. I didn’t mean for this to get out of hand.”

“I am sorry.” He says. “I shouldn’t have come on so strongly. I know you are capable of doing it.” 

“You have nothing to apologize for.” Lucy says sitting up a little bit. She winces when her foot moves and Tim readjusts the ice pack. “You were looking out for me. I never should have walked on this foot.”

Tim hums softly and smiles at her. “I will always look after you. I will always want to protect you And I don’t think I will ever stop.” 

“Good.” Lucy says. “I do appreciate it Tim. I do.” Tim massages her foot again but doesn’t say anything for a few minutes. 

“Can you walk or do we need to stay here for awhile longer?” Tim asks. Lucy gives him a soft smile and sits up even further. 

“Are you going to keep taking care of me?” She asks. Tim moves her leg and leans forward a little. 

“Absolutely.” He says and he watches as her smile grows and he feels a little bit of the weight being lifted off his shoulders. 

“Yes.” She says softly. “Let’s go home then.” 

***

“I am sorry.” Tim says as soon as he walks through the door. Lucy is sitting in the living room and looks up at him curiously. 

“What did you do?” Lucy asks standing up to meet him halfway. He frowns at her, but she reaches out to take his hands.

“What makes you think I did something?” He asks. He realizes coming in and saying he’s sorry is not something he does everyday.

“You said you were sorry.” Lucy points out. “So are you sleeping on the couch or—” Tim lets out a small laugh but shakes his head. 

“No.” He says. “I just want to apologize for everything I have put you through. Then and now. I am sorry for not opening up to you. I am sorry for not trusting you.” Lucy tilts her head at him looking throughly confused.

“Tim.” She starts but Tim cuts her off before she can continue. He wants to get this out the best he can. Before he can’t and he loses his nerve.

He realizes he has already apologized for everything but doesn’t think it would ever be enough. He just wants Lucy to know how important, how loved and how amazing she is. And he would always regret hurting her and letting her go. 

“Listen.” He says. “You were and have been so patient with me. You never gave up on me. You pulled me out of the darkness.” 

Lucy squeezes his hands and then pulls him closer. She rests her chin on his chest and looks up at him. “I will never give up on you Tim.”

“You are amazing.” He says. “Absolutely amazing. I don’t deserve you.” 

“Well you are stuck with me.” She says something unfamiliar flashing over her face. “Okay?”  Tim nods and quite honestly he wouldn’t want to be with anyone else. 

“I know.” He says softly. “I’m not going anywhere. You better not either.” Lucy studies him, a smile playing on her lips. 

“I wouldn’t dream of it.” Lucy whispers. “I am sorry too.” Tim pulls back and looks at her curiously. Lucy reaches out to put a hand on his cheek, and drags it down before she’s leaning in to kiss him.

“Why are you apologizing?” He asks. “You—”

“You always tell me how amazing I have been. But you have been so patient, you haven’t pushed me or anything. You have been so supportive and loving.” She says. “And I feel like I—when we were under the fire shelter. I didn’t say—”

“It’s okay Lucy.” Tim says. “It was high stress situation.” But Lucy shakes her head, and he wonders what’s going on in her mind.

“You deserved to hear it Tim. You deserved to know you are loved no matter what. And I couldn’t even—I am sorry. I love you.” 

“I know that baby.” Tim whispers. “I love you too.” Lucy leans in and gives him another kiss. 

“We are doing pretty good despite everything.” She says. “Being open and all that.” Tim nods and pulls her in close.

“I’m proud of us.” He whispers and he knows they can only grow from here. They can only get stronger and better. 

And he couldn’t want anything more. 

Notes:

Up next: Tim and Lucy look after one another.

Chapter 17: Look after you

Summary:

Tim and Lucy look after each other.

Notes:

This was kind of an add on chapter because I’m so obsessed with the end Chenford scene in the finale 🫠🫠. He was such a husband in that scene!

[Be my baby. I'll look after you.]

***

Lucy hears Tim coughing rom the bedroom, she frowns but makes her way to the bedroom and peeks her head in.

“Are you okay?” She asks. Tim is sitting on the bed his head down. “You have been coughing a lot.”

“I’m fine—” Tim starts to say but he coughs again this one lasting longer. Lucy watches as he shakily reaches for the bottle of water on his bedside table. Lucy walks further into the room, and sits down next to him.

“You don’t sound fine.” She says. Tim looks over at her and she realizes how exhausted he looks. He has bags under his eyes, he looks paler than usual. He runs his fingers through his hair and shakes his head. 

“I’m fine. I think it’s just a cold.” He says but his voice sounds scratchy too. Lucy stands up and motions for him to lay down.

“Lucy.” He protests. “I need to get ready for work.” But Lucy isn’t having it, he already looks like he’s going to tip over at any moment. 

“You are sick Tim. You look exhausted and I don’t think you should be out on patrol feeling like shit.” She says her voice soft but firm. “Lay down.” Tim hesitates for a few minutes and then finally lays down.

Lucy comes closer and puts her hand on his forehead. It feels warm and sweaty, and she hates that he most likely has been feeling sick for a while but didn’t say anything.

“You know I will look after you.” She says. “When you are sick. You don’t have to hide it.” 

Tim coughs again, and then winces a little. “I hate being sick.” He says closing his eyes before he’s opening them and looking at her. “I didn’t want to burden you on your day off.”

Lucy presses a kiss to his sweaty forehead, she hates when she has a day off and Tim doesn’t. She feels like she goes a little stir crazy and ends up just cleaning the house and not actually getting anything done. 

“Well considering my plan was to do chores and errands today.” She says. “This doesn’t seem too bad. At least I’m not alone.” Tim gives her a ghost of a smile and she leans down to kiss him again. 

“I will make you some soup.” She says. “Call me if you need anything.” Tim nods but doesn’t say anything and she can tell he is finally accepting this is the way it will be today.

She smiles and then slowly tiptoes out of the room but Tim’s voice stops her.

“Hey.” She turns around and looks at him. He sitting up a little, his blue eyes searching her face.

“Thank you for looking after me.” He says. She doesn’t say anything for a minute. She just knows she will always look after and take care of Tim. 

Just like he does for her.

“I will always look after you Tim. Just like you look after me.” She says. “Always.” 

“Good.” Tim says and she watches as his eyes slowly close. She smiles and turns around closing the door behind her.

He was going to be just fine.

***

“How do you feel?” Lucy asks coming into the room and balancing the hot bowl of soup. She sees Tim move around a little and then he sits up. 

“My head hurts still.” He says his voice still rough. “And my throat.” Lucy hums softly and brings the soup over to him. She hands it to him, and then sits next to him. 

“This should help.” She says. “I will get you some Tylenol and water. You just need to stay hydrated.” 

“Thanks baby.” Tim mumbles as he takes a spoonful of the soup. “I guess being sick isn’t so bad after all.” Lucy rolls her eyes at him, and reaches over to rub her hand up and down his arm.

“You can count on me.” She says. “I don’t like when you are sick.” Tim doesn’t reply just continues to eat his soup and she’s grateful he’s eating. She knows when she is sick, eating is the last thing she wants to do. 

Tim pauses and puts the bowl aside, and then looks at Lucy who is still sitting on the bed next to him. She scoots closer, and he reaches out to take her hands. 

“You made this day a little better.” He says squeezing her hand. “Hopefully I’m better tomorrow.” 

“Hopefully.” Lucy says as she lets go of his hand. “But you won’t be if you don’t get some rest and keep taking care of yourself. Okay?” She stands up and kisses him on the forehead.

“Just rest Tim.” She says. “I will take care of everything else.” Tim just studies her and then he sinks down back into the sheets.

She gives him another kiss and then tiptoes out of the room. This wasn’t how she planned on spending her day but she didn’t mind. She would always want to look after Tim. 

Always.

***

Tim watches the door carefully as he prepares all the food. He moves around the kitchen easily as he gets together all Lucy’s favorite things.

Chocolate croissants.

Veggie burgers.

Sea bass.

He keeps his eyes on the door, and then puts some croutons in the salad and mixes it up. Lucy has been at a training all night and Tim knows she will be exhausted the minute she walks through that door and hungry. So he decided to make all her favorites and give her some options.

Tim hears the door open, and he looks over to see Lucy dragging herself into the house. She drops all her things and then heads into the living room. She doesn’t see him at first, and then she looks up and freezes.

“Hi.” He says. “Good morning.” Lucy comes over to the counter and peers at all the food on it. 

“Good morning.” She says yawning a little. “What are you doing?” Tim puts down the knife he was holding and comes around the counter. He pulls her into a hug, and he feels her melt into him immediately.

“I cooked some of your favorite things.” He says. “I knew you would be tired and hungry so—” Lucy looks at him and then back at the food on the counter. 

“You did this for me?” She asks. She turns back to him gripping his shirt. “Why?” 

“To look after you.” He says. “I know it’s hard adjusting to the sergeant roll. It takes a little bit of time to get used to it and everything that comes with it.”

“True.” Lucy says biting her bottom lip and then turning to look at the food again. “But you didn’t have to do this Tim. It was one night.” 

“I know.” He says. “But I love you and I’m looking after you. Just like you do for me.” 

“Well that’s a given.” Lucy says. “I will always be there to look after you even when you are a little dramatic.” Tim rolls his eyes but pulls her into for a kiss.

“Ditto.” He says. “Now go sit down and rest. I will bring you some food in a minute.” Lucy doesn’t move from her spot for a few seconds just looks at him like he hung the moon and the stars.

She finally moves and he watches as she goes to sit down on the couch. He busies himself by fixing her up a plate. 

“You know you are a really good sergeant right?” He asks. “And you are doing this all on your own. You amaze me every single day Luce.” He pauses and then walks towards the couch.

“I know we already live together and we have taken that next step. And I think we are doing pretty darn good.” He says. “So I think it’s time to start thinking about—” He freezes when he sees Lucy passed out on the couch. He smiles and shakes his head, and leans down to give her a kiss.

“It’s okay.” He whispers and grabs a blanket to cover her up. “I will ask another time.” It might not be perfect or the right time but it’s okay. It would be okay because he knows he would always be there to look after Lucy. They would always look after each other. And the right time would come when he could ask the question.

***

“Tim?” Tim looks up to see Lucy standing in front of him. She still looks exhausted but a little more rested than when she came home a few hours ago.

“Hi.” Tim says standing up and making his way over to her. “How did you sleep?” Lucy yawns but reaches out to pull him in.

“Good.” She says. “But I’m starving. And I seem to remember you made me a whole buffet.” Tim laughs and takes her hand leading her to the kitchen. She sits down on one of the stools and he busies himself with heating up some of the food.

“You know I appreciate you right?” Lucy asks. Tim pauses and turns around to look at her. “And I love you. I’m glad we are a team.” Tim smiles and then turns back around, he puts a chocolate croissant on a plate and puts it in front of her. 

“I love you too.” He says leaning forward to press a kiss to her lips. “And I will always look after you no matter what.”

“Good.” Lucy says grinning and settling back down. “Because I expect more of this.” Tim huffs out a laugh but he knows he would do this again and again if it meant keeping Lucy happy. 

It was worth it. Every single time.

And he knows they will always look after each other and that’s all that matters. 

Look after you.

Look after you. 

Notes:

Up next: Three words that are familiar to Tim and Lucy.

Chapter 18: You’re worth it

Summary:

Tim and Lucy realize the other is worth it.

Notes:

Peep the quote at the beginning 🙂‍↔️😌

I always say these are going to be short and then they turn out longer 🫠🫣.

[You deserve someone who is worth the effort—Tim Bradford]  

***

“Is this worth it?” Lucy asks looking around the furniture store. “We have a perfectly good couch.” 

“This was your idea.” Tim points out. “You said we needed to get a new couch to make it ours.” Lucy sighs heavily, because yes she had said that only because after living with Tim for about 4 months it didn’t feel like theirs. It felt like she was coming home to his house. She had of course put her touches here and there and Tim told her to do whatever she needed to make it feel like her home but—

“Yeah but—” She pauses as she sees a simple leather brown couch. It was pretty big and it would fit perfectly in their living room. “Is it really worth it? Do you want to get a new couch?” 

“You’re worth it.” Tim says. “And I want my home to feel like your home. You live there. You deserve to make it feel like home and if a new couch is the answer than so be it.”

“Okay.” Lucy says and she feels so grateful that Tim is willing to work this out with her. “What about that one?” She points to the brown leather couch. Tim raises his eyebrows and goes to sit down on it.

“It’s a little stiff.” He says moving around. Lucy lets out a laugh, and goes to sit next to him. 

“I’m sure we will break it in.” She says laying her head on his shoulder. Tim hums softly, and presses a kiss to the top of her head.

“This one is in the running.” He says. “Let’s look around some more.” Lucy nods and Tim gets up pulling her with him. 

They browse the store some more, but Lucy can’t decide on anything and she’s not sure why. “How about this.” Tim says pulling her to a stop. She studies him for a moment and realizes he doesn’t look frustrated or anything. He looks like he wants to help her make a decision. “How about we start small and get a chair.”

“A chair?” Lucy questions. “Like an armchair?” Tim nods and points to a chair that matches his current couch perfectly. 

“Yes.” He says. “That way it’s not replacing the couch but just adding to the living room.” 

“You want a chair?” She asks. Tim really was a minimalist and didn’t have much in his house. He didn’t even have salad forks, and adding a piece of furniture was kind of a big deal.

“I want you to feel comfortable Luce. This is your home too whether you realize it or not.” He says. Lucy blows out a breath and goes to sit down in the chair Tim pointed out. It’s comfortable and roomy and they could definitely break it in. 

And it would definitely be worth it.

“Let’s do it!” Lucy says. Tim grins at her, and comes over to stand in between her legs. 

“Yeah?”

“It’s perfect Tim.” She says. Tim pulls her up into his chest and presses a kiss to the top of her head and she feels at peace.

“You’re worth it.” He says. “Chair and all.” Lucy rolls her eyes but stands on her toes to give him a kiss.

“You’re worth it too.” She says. “Thanks for picking out a chair with me.” Tim grins at her, and looks around to find someone to help them.

“Anytime Luce.” He says grinning at her. “Anytime.”

***

“You know you are worth it right?” Lucy asks as Tim paces the room. “No matter what. No matter what happens. You will always be worth it.” Tim pauses and looks up at her, he feels a little dizzy and light headed. He feels like he could topple over at anytime. 

“Even after everything I put you through?” He asks topping to stand in front of her. Lucy reaches out to balance him as if she knows that’s exactly what he needs. 

He needs her. 

Always.

It has been a hard day, full of mistakes and preventable accidents. He snapped at Miles more times than he probably should have. And on top of all that he had a therapy session and usually those calmed him down a bit but this one just riled him up. And now he was feeling like he wasn’t worth anything. 

“Yes.” Lucy says. “Because you have proven yourself time and time again Tim. You have proven to me that you love me and you will fight for us.”

“I will.” Tim says his voice a little shaky because no matter what they go through. No matter if they argue or not. He would always fight for Lucy, he wasn’t going to make the same mistake twice because he knows if he did he would lose her for good. 

“I know babe.” Lucy says. Tim finally pulls her in and his hands are shaky as he does it but he likes having her close. It calms his nerves little by little. 

“Remember when you told me that I deserve someone worth the effort?” Lucy asks. Tim nods, he remembers that day vividly the day he finally decided to ask Lucy out. It was a day full of stress, and bombs and Chris Sanford being  ignorant but—

“You do deserve someone worth the effort Lucy.” He says. Lucy smiles and leans in to kiss him. 

“Well that’s you.” She says softly. “I know it was a hard day today Tim but you are worth it. And I don’t want anyone else.”

“Even on the hard days?” He asks.

“Especially on the hard days.” She confirms. “I wouldn’t want anyone else by my side.” Tim sighs softly but he could feel the tension melting away. 

“Me neither.” He mutters. “You are worth it.” Lucy pulls him in close and kisses him long and hard. 

It’s everything.

“So are you.” She says back. He smiles at her and backs her into the armchair they bought a few weeks ago. “Are you good now?” 

“I will be.” He says stepping in between her legs. “I will be.” He bends down to kiss her and he realizes there’s nothing better than this. 

***

“How is living with Tim going?” Celina asks. Lucy moves her wine glass around watching as the liquid sloshes on the side of the glass.  

“We have been living together for four months.” She says smiling a little. “It’s been great.” Celina takes a sip of her wine and then puts the glass down in front of her. 

“I’m happy for you.” Celina says. “I was rooting for you to get back together and to make it work.” 

Lucy chews on her bottom lip just thinking of the last few months with Tim. Just thinking about how no matter what—he was worth it. No matter what they went through, no matter how hard it was. They would get through it, and they had their fair share of ups and downs.

But it was worth the effort. 

“Tim is worth it.” Lucy says and she takes a sip of her wine. “He always has been. He just needed to see it himself.”

“So you two are in it for the long run?” Celina asks. Lucy smiles and they haven’t exactly talked that far into the future.

Marriage.

Kids.

Growing old together.

But she knows it’s going to happen, she knows her future with Tim is set in stone and he is it for her. She’s not sure when everything will happen but—

“Yes.” Lucy says. “We both know what we want and we both want it with each other.”

“That’s good.” Celina says looking a little wistful. Lucy tilts her head at her.

“Is everything okay with you and Rodge?” She asks knowing Celina’s boyfriend was still on tour. 

“Yeah.” Celina says. “I really like him and I know he likes me but it’s hard being away from him.” 

Lucy hums sympathetically because she gets it. She gets the struggle being away from the man she loves even if it was by choice. She remembers after the breakup and just laying in bed wishing and wondering what she could have done differently with Tim. Even if there was nothing she could do about it. 

And in the end after everything—it was worth it. 

“I get it.” Lucy says softly. “I do but if you really like him then it will be worth it in the end.” Celina sighs softly but smiles at her.

“Yeah I guess you are right.” She says. Lucy takes another sip of her wine, grateful that she could go home to the man she loves. 

Because he was worth it.

***

Lucy gets home later that night and tip toes to the bedroom. Tim had told her he would stay up for her. But when she enters the bedroom, she sees he’s passed out on the bed. She smiles and walks over to his side and presses a kiss to his forehead. 

He would always be worth the wait. 

Always.

“You’re worth it.” She mutters before she’s stripping down. She pulls on Tim’s discarded shirt and the tiptoes to her side of the bed. 

Worth it. 

Always worth it.

***

“When are you going to ask Lucy to marry you?” Angela asks Tim. Tim pauses and turns to look at her.

“What?” He asks a little dumbfounded. “What—”

“Lucy.” Angela says. “You are going to propose aren’t you?” Tim puts down the bottle opener he’s holding and then takes a deep breath. 

Yes, he’s is going to propose—one day. He just needs a ring and a plan.

“Of course.” Tim says. He picks up the bottle opener again and opens the two beers in front of him and then pushes one towards Angela.

“I have to get a ring first and a plan.” He says. He needs his proposal to Lucy to be perfect, because she deserves the best.

“I’m sure whatever you do Lucy will love it.” Angela says. “You two are doing good?” 

Tim nods because even if they have ups and downs sometimes. Even if they fight and argue. They are in this together. 

Lucy is worth the effort and he is not giving up this time.

“Definitely.” He says. “She is worth it and she always will be. I’m not going to just walk away again.” 

“Good.” Angela says. “You do know you won’t find another one like her.” 

“I know.” Tim says. “She’s the love of my life. There’s no one but her.” Angela smiles at him and takes a sip of her beer.

“I’m happy for you Tim. You deserve to be happy.” She says. Tim smiles and ducks his head down, some days he thinks he doesn’t deserve her but then she’s right by his side and he’s knows it’s worth it.

The good, the bad and the ugly. 

All of it.

Lucy is worth it.

Always.  

***

“Hey.” Lucy says coming into the kitchen as Tim is cleaning it up. “Angela was here?” 

“Just left.” He says. Lucy comes into the kitchen and wraps her arms around his neck. They sway for a minute and Tim can’t help but kiss her. He loves her so much, and when he finally gets that ring and gets on one knee he knows it will all be worth it.

“Mmm.” Lucy hums. “I’m sorry I missed her. But I’m glad it’s just the two of us.” 

“Me too.” Tim says softly brushing some hair out of her face. “I love you.” 

“I love you too.” She says a smile lighting up her face. It’s amazing how they got to this point again. One hundred percent in love and on the same page.

“You’re worth it.” Tim says. “You’re worth the effort. I know I put you through a lot and we have been through a lot but—”

“You’re worth it too.” She says. “And you always will be.” Tim lets out a breath he didn’t know he was holding. 

He was going to propose to Lucy, and it would be worth the wait. 

Because she was worth it. They were worth the effort. 

Always. 

You’re worth it. You’re worth it. 

Notes:

Up next: Lucy thinks she failed but Tim makes her realize it’s not the end.

Chapter 19: Persist through failure

Summary:

Tim encourages Lucy, and she realizes she can learn from her mistakes.

Notes:

Just a sweet chapter but next chapter is a big one 🤭

I had this particular chapter planned out in my head for awhile ever since I found this phrase.

I hope you enjoy!! 🩷

[Fall seven times and stand up eight. –Japanese Proverb]

***

Tim rolls over reaching out for Lucy but her side is cold and empty. He opens his eyes and sits up looking around the dark room. He sighs softly and rolls out of bed, and walks towards the door. He tiptoes out to the living room where he finds Lucy at the kitchen counter bent over some books. 

Her hair is in a messy bun, and she has one of his shirts on. She doesn’t look up when he approaches not even when he slides onto the seat next to her.

“Lucy.” He says softly. “Why are you up at 2am?” Lucy doesn’t replies but she does shift a little away from him.

“Luce.” He says again his voice softer this time. He looks at the books in front of her and he realizes they are the books he gave her to help her study for the sergeant’s exam. “What’s going on?”

“I failed.” Lucy says not looking at him. “At being a sergeant so—” 

“You did not fail at being a sergeant Lucy.” Tim says. And he suddenly knows what this is all about—and his heart breaks a little. 

“I did.” Lucy says still not looking at him. Her eyes are on the book but he can tell she’s not focused. “I put an innocent man in jail despite everyone telling me—”

“Lucy—” Tim starts as he turns her around forcing her away from the book. “He wasn’t completely innocent and you did what you thought was right.”

“Which turned out to be wrong.” Lucy says finally looking up at him. “Celina, Nolan and Miles all told me he— but I didn’t listen to them.”

“If I had told you he was innocent would you have listened?” Tim asks. Lucy shrugs her shoulders but he knows her well enough to know her answer.

“No. Yes. I don’t know Tim.” She says hanging her head. “I just know because of me an innocent man is in jail and that—”

“He was an accomplice in a murder Luce. He’s not innocent.” Tim says. Lucy looks up at him, and her eyes are bloodshot and red. 

“His partner is still out there.” She says glumly. “And he—”

“Is where he belongs.” Tim says reaching out to rub her shoulders a little. He just wants her to know she didn’t fail. And she wasn’t a failure, she did her job exactly the way it needed to be done. And there were a few bumps in the road but she didn’t fail.

Lucy turns away from him and her eyes go back to the books in front of her. “Still.” She says. “If  I had just listened to everyone instead of just ignoring.” 

“Lucy.” Tim starts and he’s not sure what to say. He’s not sure how to convince her she didn’t do anything wrong. 

“What?” 

“What are you doing? How is looking at these books going to help you?” He asks. Lucy does look at him with a frown.

“I’m clearly not cut out to be a sergeant Tim.” She says her voice gruff. “So I’m studying—”

“Lucy, you made sergeant for a reason. You were ready and you passed with flying colors.” He says. “Studying these books isn’t going to change anything. They won’t tell you how to fix real life issues.” 

“Then what do you suggest I do?” Lucy asks. Tim reaches out to wipe a tear from her face, and then leaves his hand on her cheek.

“You push through.” Tim says. “Persist through failure. You fall down and you get up again.” 

“But how can I—” Lucy says leaning forward a little. “It’s constantly on my mind. It just nags at me over and over again.”

“You just have to try again. And keep trying. You just strive to do better.” Tim says softly. 

“You—never mess up.” Lucy says. “You are always so confident in your decisions. You are an amazing leader.”

“I mess up all the time.” Tim says scooting closer to her. “You know better than anyone that I close myself off when I mess up. I got kicked out of metro because I went rouge.”

“Okay but—”

“I messed up when I walked away from you. It took me awhile to even admit it that I was doing it because I didn’t feel like I was worthy enough to be with you.” He says. “You don’t think you are worthy enough to be a sergeant.”

“I don’t think I am.” She admits and Tim’s heart breaks a little more just hearing her confess that.he hates that she’s feeling this way.

“I know the feeling. Sometimes I don’t know what I did to to be loved by you.” Tim says. “I’m not perfect Lucy. But you deserve to be sergeant. You deserve to be in the position no matter what.” 

“You deserve to be loved.” Lucy says and she leans forward to kiss him. Tim rests his forehead against hers.

“See?” He says softly. “You lift me up even when I don’t deserve it. You keep me balanced Lucy. And I’m going to do the same for you.” 

Lucy sits up straight and a single tear leaks out of her eye and down her cheek. “You keep me balanced too.” She says. “So I just push forward?”

“Yes.” Tim says. “Persist through failure. Don’t give up Lucy. It won’t get you anywhere.” 

“Easier said than done.” She mutters. Tim doesn’t say anything just stands up and pulls her with him. He keeps her close, and they sway a little bit. 

“I know baby.” He mutters. “But you will get through this okay?” She nods and lays her head on his chest.

“Now what?” She asks. Tim lets out a small laugh and she lifts her head to look at him. 

“Now we go back to bed and you get some sleep. There is no point on dwelling on this right now.” He says softly. 

“Okay.” Lucy says and he feels her relax a little. “Let’s go to bed.” Tim pulls her along and he knows there is more to talk about. He knows Lucy will get through this and she will regain her confidence. He would be right by her side, encouraging her no matter what. 

And that’s all that matters.

***

Lucy finds herself in the kitchen at 2am again. She has a cup of tea in front of her and some notes that she wrote up the day before. She knows Tim would be out here soon but she just needed to think. 

Persist through failure.

Don’t give up. 

Tim’s words swirl through her head, but she can’t get the thought out of her head that she did something wrong. 

That she failed at being a sergeant no matter what Tim said.

Lucy sighs and closes her eyes thinking of all the things she could have done differently with this case. 

Listen to her coworkers who were just trying to help. Listen to the voice in the back of her head that was telling her something was off.

“Lucy.” Tim’s voice interrupts her thoughts and she looks up to see Tim walking into the kitchen. He’s shirtless and his pants are hanging low and any other time Lucy would probably be jumping him. 

“You found me.” She says dully. She knows this will be like the other night where Tim says all the right things and then leads her back to bed. 

“It’s hard to sleep when you aren’t next to me.” Tim says sitting down next to her. She turns in her seat and looks at him. 

“I couldn’t sleep.” She admits. Tim hums sympathetically and scoots forward so his knees are touching hers.

“Are you still thinking about that arrest?” Tim asks. Lucy nods and pulls the cup of tea towards her.

“His partner is still out there.” She says hanging her head a little. “And he’s still sitting in a jail cell.”

“As he should be.” Tim says. “He’s not completely innocent Luce. You can’t keep dwelling on this. You are going to drive yourself crazy.”

“Too late for that.” Lucy says. “Let’s say he is where he belongs. I still can’t help but think I could have done somethings differently.”

“Of course.” Tim says. “You will always feel like there was something you could have done differently. But it’s not the end of the world. You just keep going. You persist through failure.” 

“I want to stop thinking about it.” Lucy says. “But I just keep going over it in my head—”

“Luce.” Tim says reaching out for her hands. “I can’t make you stop thinking about it. I can only tell you it’s not all your fault. And you didn’t fail as a sergeant. The fact that you keep going over it because you want to do better says a lot about you.” 

Lucy blinks at him willing the tears not to fall out of her eyes. “You always know what to say.” Lucy says softly. Tim squeezes her hands, and then leans forward to kiss her softly. 

“I’m sorry you are going through this Luce.” He says. “But I’m going to keep saying what I have been: persist through failure and keep going. You can only learn from your mistakes.” 

“I know.” Lucy says softly. “I know.” Tim stands up and pulls her with him. 

“There’s nothing you can do right now.” He says. “And losing sleep over this will not help.” Tim pulls her along and she follows him quietly. 

“I’m sorry for leaving you in bed alone.” She says. Tim pauses just as they get to the bedroom door. 

“It’s okay.” He says. “But you know you can wake me up if you are having trouble sleeping.” Lucy lets out a sigh and pulls him down for a kiss.

“Thank you.” 

“For what?” Tim asks raising his eyebrows at her. Lucy sighs and puts her hands on his chest. 

“For always believing in me and encouraging me.” She says. Tim looks at her, and then kisses her. It lasts longer and she never wants it to stop. 

“Always.” Tim says softly. “I will always believe in you Lucy. No matter what.” Lucy smiles at him, and for the first time in a few days she relaxes. 

She can do this with Tim by her side. 

She can do this. She can learn from her mistakes. 

Persist through failure.

Persist through failure. 

Notes:

Up next: Tim has a question for Lucy.

Chapter 20: Marry me now

Summary:

Tim has a question for Lucy but there are some bumps and an ex along the way.

Notes:

Think Mondler proposal and Jake & Amy from B99 proposal. (How he decided he was going to propose!) (Two of my favorite ships lol).

Also I incorporated the phrase a little later on but I couldn’t do will you marry me because it’s not three words which is the whole point of this fic! But I do think the phrase I choose works!

[Hey, baby, I think I wanna marry you]

***

“Angela, I need your help.” Tim says the minute he sees his friend. Angela raises her eyebrows at him, and his eyes dart around the station. He doesn’t want anyone to hear what he is about to say.  

Especially Lucy.

“What do you need help with?” Angela asks. Tim takes a deep breath and then lets it out.

“I’m going to propose to—” He pauses and he looks around the station again. He’s pretty sure Lucy has already gone home, they had come to work separately today. But he just wanted to make sure. “I’m going to propose to Lucy but I need help.”

“Oh my god.” Angela says looking at with excitement dancing in her eyes. “Do you have a ring?”

Tim shakes his head, and he feels a little flushed. He decided he was going to propose to Lucy last night while they were lying in bed. It was sudden thought—he just looked over at her and he just knew it was time. 

But the thing was—he didn’t have a ring or a plan. He didn’t have a clue what he was going to do or how he was going to do it.

He just knows he wants to spend forever with her and this was just another step forward for them. 

“No. I just decided last night and I—” He pauses again and looks at Angela. “I love her and I want this. I just don’t know how to go about it.” 

“I know.” Angela says. “The first step would be getting a ring. And then we go from there.” Tim nods because that sounded simple enough. 

Ring.

Plan.

Propose.

He could do this.

Will you marry me?

Marry me now.

***

“It has to be perfect.” Tim says looking at all the rings. There were so many to choose from but he hadn’t seen the perfect one. The one that he wanted to slide onto Lucy’s finger after she says yes. 

“Lucy will love whatever you pick out for her.” Angela says peering down at the rings. “She loves you Tim and it will be from you.” 

Tim nods but he barely hears her as he moves down looking at the shapes of rings, the size of the diamonds. 

He knows Angela is right, Lucy would love whatever he picked out but—

“Can I see that one?” He asks the girl who had been silently watching him. He points to one in the middle of the case. It’s a decent size diamond, and the cut is beautiful. It reminds him of Lucy’s moonstone ring.

The one she dropped so he could find her. 

The one he carried around in his pockets for weeks. 

The one he clung to because it reminded him how close he was to losing her even if she wasn’t his to lose.

“Of course sir.” The girl says pulling it out. “An excellent choice.” She sets it in front of him and he stares at it. 

It’s perfect.

“It’s beautiful Tim.” Angela says coming over to stand next to him. “I think Lucy will love it.” Tim nods and picks it up holding it in his hand. 

“Lucy is your girl?” The girl asks. Tim tears his eyes away from the ring to look at her.

“She is.” 

“It’s a beautiful ring sir. I think your Lucy will love it.” She says. “It’s tough and strong. But it also shows the femininity.” 

Tim looks over at Angela who just raises her eyebrows at him and gives him a slight nod. “I’ll take it.” He says. “A size 7.” He puts it back down and the girl takes it and walks away. 

“It’s good right?” He asks Angela who just smiles at him. She gives him a smile and he feels himself relax a little. He was grateful that he has someone like Angela in his life. The one who encouraged him to talk to Lucy before they got back together. Who told him Lucy was the best thing that had ever happened to him. 

Which she was and he planned on making sure she knew it for the rest of their lives.

The girl comes back with ring in the box, and opens it up to show Tim. “It’s perfect.” He says. He pulls his money clip out and hands the girl his card. 

“Now you have the ring.” Angela says. “How are you going to propose?” Tim feels himself tense up a bit because he hasn’t thought that far ahead. He wanted to get the ring first and then—

“I don’t know.” He says. “But it has to be perfect.” Angela hums softly as the girl comes back with Tim’s card and the bag with the ring.

“Don’t think too hard on it Tim or you will drive yourself crazy.” Angela says. “Wesley surprised me and it wasn’t even fancy. Just go with your heart.” 

Tim sighs softly because it was easier said than done. This was the beginning of the rest of their lives.

This ring was the start of their forever and he just needed it to be perfect. Because Lucy deserved that and nothing less.

***

“This is beautiful babe.” Lucy says looking around the restaurant. “How did you get us in?” Tim looks around too and it is a little fancier than they normally go for but—

He felt for the ring box in his pocket, and took a deep breath. Lucy deserved the best and nothing less. 

And he was going to give it to her. 

“I have my ways.” He says. “I’m glad you like it because there is something that—” But a voice interrupts him before he can get anything out. 

“Lucy?” A familiar voice says. They both turn to see Emmett staring at them, there’s a young blonde woman by his side looking between all of them.

“Emmett?” Lucy says looking at Tim and then back at Emmett. Tim hadn’t seen Emmett for years not after he broke up with Lucy by text. 

She deserved better than that. She deserved so much better. And Tim knew even back then Emmett wasn’t the right guy for her.

He was an idiot for letting her go, and Tim knew that from experience. He knows what it’s like to have Lucy and then lose her. He’s just grateful he got a second chance.

Emmett looks at Tim and gives him a small nod and then turns to look at Lucy again. “What are you doing here?” He asks. Tim reaches for Lucy’s hand under the table and she slides hers into his. 

“Probably the same thing you are.” Lucy says. “Just having dinner.” Emmett’s eyes go to Tim again and he holds his gaze. 

“With Tim?” He asks. “You two are together?” Lucy exchanges a look with Tim and he knows Lucy probably complained about him while she was dating Emmett and he doesn’t blame her one bit. He knows how he treated her when she was his rookie and how Emmett saw some of it.

“Yes.” Lucy says. “And yes. We have been together for awhile.” Emmett doesn’t say anything but he doesn’t really look too surprised. 

“That’s great.” Emmett says and his gaze lingers on Lucy for longer than Tim likes. His other hand goes to the ring box again and then his eyes go back to Emmett. His date makes an noise and nudges Emmett a little in the side. Emmett straightens up and gives them both a smile. “It was nice to see you both.”

Tim doesn’t say anything and neither does Lucy. They both just watch Emmett and his date walk away. 

There’s a heavy silence and suddenly the ring box in Tim’s pocket feels like it weighs 20 pounds. It feels like it’s weighing him down and he’s frozen to his seat.

He can’t ask her now. 

Not tonight.

Not after that.

Not after the ran into Lucy’s ex like in the damn movies. 

“Are you okay?” Lucy asks him squeezing his hand. “You look like you have seen a ghost.” 

“I think I did.” He says. “I never thought we would ever see him again.” Lucy is silent for a few seconds before she’s pulling him in.

“Me neither.” Lucy says. “I thought about him a lot and wondered where he was and how he was doing.” 

“Yeah?” Tim asks and he suddenly feels like something is lodged in his throat. “Do you regret not going after him?”

“No.” Lucy says softly. “He wasn’t the right guy for me remember?” Tim cracks a smile and he lets his shoulders relax a little.

He’s not worried Lucy will leave him, he’s confident in their relationship but Tim did leave her. He did walk away from her and that was something he would always regret. And he would spend the rest of his life making up for it. 

“And I am the right guy?” Tim asks. Lucy shrugs her shoulders and leans in so her lips are touch his.

“I think you are.” She says. Tim smiles and kisses her pulling her in close. He might not be able to propose tonight but he has her close and that’s all that matters.

***

“Lucy.” A familiar voice says and Tim freezes outside the bathroom hallway. “It was really nice seeing you.” 

“You too Emmett.” Lucy says. Tim inches closer and he feels his heart pounding in his chest. They had finished dinner, and Lucy had gotten up to go to the bathroom and Tim followed her but it seemed Emmett had beat him to it. 

“I wanted to catch you before you left. Maybe we can catch up sometime.” He says. There’s a short silence.

“You do realize I’m with Tim right? It’s not just — we live together and we love each other.” Lucy says and Tim feels a little proud. 

“It’s serious?” Emmett asks. “With Bradford? It’s that serious?” 

“Yes.” She says. “I love him. I don’t want to be with anyone else.”  There’s another stretch of silence and Tim fidgets a little. 

“Can he give you everything you want? Marriage and—”

“That’s not really any of your business.” Lucy says a little snappily. “We have talked about it.” But even she sounds unsure and Tim hates it. 

“Then why aren’t you married if it’s serious? Why do you only live together? Bradford doesn’t exactly have a clean record when it comes to marriages.” 

Tim clenches his fists and he feels like he’s being punched in the gut. Emmett is basically saying everything he knows already. He has been married before, he’s damaged and he’s not perfect.

What if—

“You don’t know him like I do.” Lucy says her voice cool. “He’s the most honorable man. And he loves me. I’m sure he will ask me when he’s ready.” Tim closes his eyes and he is suddenly wishing he had proposed. 

“Right.” Emmett says but he sounds doubtful. “Well good luck with that.”

“You broke up with me by text Emmett. I’m not sure why you think I could trust you after that.” There’s another long silence and then a door opening and closing. Tim is about to step away when Lucy appears around the corner.

“Oh.” She says her face falling. “How much did you hear?”

“All of it.” He says. Lucy takes his hand and leads him through the dining room and then out of the restaurant. 

They don’t say anything until they reach his truck and they are both inside. “I’m sorry.” Lucy says. “I don’t know—I never thought he would say anything like that.”

“It’s not your fault baby.” Tim says. “He’s the one who let you go. He made that choice.” 

“I did like him.” She admits. “But I love you. You worked to get my trust back and I love you.”

“You said that twice.” Tim says. Lucy shrugs and leans over to give him a kiss. 

“I just wanted to let you know.” She says. “It’s you and only you. When you—want to ask.” She trails off a little. She has a smile on her face but it looks like it’s a little strained. 

“Right.” He says and the ring box feels heavy again. “I love you too.” He knows he has to ask her, and he has to do it right. 

Because she deserves that.

***

“Do you want to get married again?” Lucy asks Tim a few days after their date and he freezes a little. Tim had been carrying around the ring box wherever he went. And now it was tucked safely in his sock drawer, underneath all his socks. It’s the one drawer Lucy never really went through. 

“What?”

“Do you want to get married again?” She asks. “You have already been married once and it—”

“Where is this coming from?” Tim asks her. “Is this because of what Emmett said?” Lucy shakes her head, and gets up from the chair and walks towards him.

“No. Not really.” She says. Tim gives her a look and she stops short. “Maybe a little. But it didn’t work out with Isabel. And I just thought maybe you didn’t want to try again.”

“Isabel choose drugs over our marriage Lucy.” Tim says. “She left me and no matter how hard I tried to help her she refused it.” 

“I know Tim but—”

“You are different Lucy. I know you aren’t going to walk away. I know you love me no matter what.” He says. “And you aren’t Isabel. You are the love of my life. You fixed me even when it wasn’t your mess to fix.” 

Lucy stares at him with tears in her eyes, and he can feel himself getting a little emotional. He loved Isabel at one time, but he never felt for her the way he felt for Lucy. The love he has for Lucy he knows only happens once. 

“You still didn’t answer my question.” She says. “Do you want to get married again?” 

“Yes.” He says and waits a minute. “Eventually.” Lucy face falls a little, and he knows he’s going to have to propose soon. 

“To me?” She asks. 

“Obviously.” He says trying to lighten the mood a little. “It will always be you.” 

“Okay.” She says softly. “That’s good to know.” Tim opens his mouth to reply but Lucy just steps closer and presses a kiss to his cheek. And then she walks off without another word.

***

“You are an idiot.” Angela says to Tim the minute he steps out of his truck. He frowns and looks around wondering what he could have done this early in the morning.

“How so?” He asks. Angela rolls her eyes at him, and steps in front of him so he can’t move. 

“Are you ever going to propose to Lucy?” She asks. “Or is that ring just going to go to waste?” 

“I am going to propose.” He says a little defiantly. “I’m just waiting—”

“Waiting for what Tim? You have the ring. You want to propose. It doesn’t have to be perfect. But the longer you make her wait.” Angela says shaking her head at him and he really is an idiot. He had the perfect opportunity the other night and he didn’t do anything about it. 

“She knows I want to marry her.” Tim says. “But she deserves a perfect proposal and I’m not just going to half ass it.” 

“Tim.” Angela says sounding exasperated. “You are asking Lucy to marry you. She loves you and whatever you do is going to be perfect.”

Tim sighs but he knows Angela is right, he just has to do it. He has to just get the ring out and get down on one knee and ask her to marry him. 

He’s done making her wait, he’s done being nervous about it. He’s going to just ask and he hopes to god she says yes.

Tonight.

He’s going to ask tonight.

Marry me now. 

Marry me now.

***

“Luce?” Tim calls out when he steps inside the house. “I’m home. I was thinking—” He frowns when he doesn’t hear anything and it’s dark. 

Too dark.

“Lucy?” He calls out again. “Where are you?” He steps into the hallway leading to the bedroom and pushes the door open and stops short when he sees Lucy in the middle of the room surrounded by candles.

“Um.” He says stepping forward. “What is happening?” Lucy looks up, and gives him a half smile. 

“You said you want to marry me.” She says. “But you haven’t given any indication on when that will happen. And maybe I’m just being impatient and—” Tim steps forward a little his eyes darting to his sock drawer. 

“What?” He asks softly. He keeps his eyes on Lucy as she pulls something from behind her back. It’s the ring box, and he swallows hard. 

“And then I found this.” She says. “You have a ring but you haven’t asked and so I thought I should just do it.” 

“Do what Lucy?” He asks. Lucy shifts to one knee and he moves forward and bends down in front of her.

“Tim, I love you and—” She pauses and he sees tears filling her eyes. “God, I thought I could do this.” 

Tim laughs and little and scoots closer to her. “Do you want me to do it?” He asks. 

“Please do.” She mutters. Tim smiles and takes the ring box from her. He gets on one knee and takes a deep breath.

“I’ve been waiting to do this. I wanted it to be perfect because you deserve that. I didn’t mean to make you wait. I love you Lucy, and I want to spend the rest of my life with you. Now and forever. Marry me now. Marry me now so we can spend the rest of our lives together.” He says. He opens the box, and Lucy eyes go to it and then back to his face. 

“Ask the question Tim.” She says a soft smile on her face.

“Lucy, will you marry me? This is it for me. You are it for me. And I want forever with you.” He says. Lucy takes a deep breath and then wipes at the tears falling down her face.

“Yes.” She says softly. “Yes, I will marry you Tim.” Tim feels the instant sense of relief, as he pulls out the ring and slips it on her finger. 

“It’s beautiful Tim.” She mutters looking down at her finger. “I can’t wait to marry you.” Tim just leans in to kiss her. 

“I cant wait marry you Luce.” He says resting his forehead against hers. “Marry me now.”

“Right now?” She asks smiling at him. 

“No. We have a wedding to plan.” He says and even just saying it gives him butterflies. 

“Hell yeah we do.” She mutters. She puts her hand on his cheek and he feels the cool metal of her ring against his cheek. “I love you.” 

“I love you too.” 

Marry me now. 

Marry me now. 

Notes:

Up next: Tim and Lucy realize home is more than a place.

Chapter 21: You’re my home

Summary:

Tim and Lucy realize a home is more than just a place.

Notes:

This is just a sweet little chapter. The next three-ish chapters will be longer.

[Home isn’t where you’re from, it’s where you find light when all grows dark.― Pierce Brown]

***

“Hi baby.” Tim greets Lucy as she stumbles inside the house. He steadies her and then shuts the door behind her. “Did you have fun?” Lucy kicks off her shoes, and then looks up at him. Her cheeks are flushed, but she’s smiling at him. 

“I did.” She says. “Angela insisted that we finally celebrate you getting your head out of your ass and asking me to marry you.” Tim rolls his eyes and pulls her towards the living room. Angela, Nyla and Celina had all taken Lucy out to celebrate their engagement. Tim would have gone but Angela told him they would celebrate both of them another night. 

Eventually. 

Tim didn’t really mind and he had to finish up some paperwork anyway. He was grateful Lucy got to go because she did deserve a night out. 

“I did ask.” He says and he picks up her hand where her engagement  ring rests. “It took awhile but it was worth it.” 

“It was.” She agrees. “It was also nice smack talking you tonight.” Tim narrows his eyes at her, but she just grins at him. 

“I’m going to ignore that.” He says. “I’m happy you are home.” Lucy hums softly and rests her hand on his cheek.

“You’re my home.” She says softly. Tim’s heart pounds in his chest and he pulls her closer. “I missed you tonight.”

Tim leans in to kiss her, and pulls her closer. “You’re my home too.” He says softly. Lucy cuddles into him and Tim feels completely at peace just holding her. 

And he knows he will get this for the rest of his life. 

***

Lucy paces the living room back and forth it. Back and forth it. She feels Kojo’s eyes on her and she knows the dog is probably getting a little anxious too but—

She sighs softly and she should feel grateful that she’s at home and safe after a long, horrifying day but the thing is there is someone missing. A piece of her heart, a piece of this home that makes it home. 

Tim.

The house doesn’t feel complete without him. It feels empty and cold and she hates that feeling. She just wants Tim next to her, by her side. She looks down and sees her engagement ring sparkling despite everything. 

He’s going to come home. 

He’s going to come home.  

Tim was okay as far as she knew. He was just at the station giving his statement. She wanted to wait for him but he told her to go home. She had been through a lot too and he would be awhile. She hated leaving him behind especially with how they were feeling but—

She hears the door open and looks up to see Tim walking through it. He looks rough and tired and beaten down. She makes her way towards him before he can even say anything and wraps herself in his arms.

“Are you okay?” She asks him. She feels him press a kiss to the top of her head. 

“I am now.” He replies and she looks up at him. “I’m sorry it took so long.” Lucy shakes her head, and leans up to kiss him. And it feels like the missing puzzle piece is slotted into place.

Because she’s finally home.

She’s with the one person who makes her feel safe, wanted and loved all in one. Their house wasn’t a home until they were both in it.

“I’m just happy you are home.” She says. Tim nods and bends down to kiss her pulling her up in his arms.

“Me too.” He says and she feels him visibly relax. She rubs her hands up and down his back and then pulls away for a moment. 

“You’re my home.” She says softly. “It doesn’t feel right without you here. Especially on a day like today.”

Tim nods in agreement. “I know baby.” He says. “What do you want to do to put this day behind us?” 

“We can go through the wedding count.” She suggests looking over at the table that holds all their wedding planning stuff. There is a stack of envelopes that holds all the yeses and nos. 

“Okay.” Tim says and takes her hand leading over to the table. They both take a seat and she hands him a stack of envelopes and they start opening them one by one. 

Their wedding was in just a few months—a June wedding in a sweet little venue Lucy had found one day. They got lucky and were able to book it for the beginning of June.

It wasn’t going to be a big wedding just their family and friends who loved and cared about them. 

Lucy pauses and watches as Tim opens another envelope and then writes something down on the paper in front of him. 

And she’s so grateful that he is her home.

Always. 

***

“To Lucy and Tim.” Angela says holding out her glass. Tim looks over at Lucy who is grinning from ear to ear and she might be a little more tipsy than he is right now. “You finally got your shit together and are getting married.” Tim rolls his eyes but he clinks his bottle with Angela’s.

“To be fair.” Lucy says reaching over to pick up Tim’s beer. She takes a sip and then puts it back down and leans into him. “I had to give him the push.” 

“So did I.” Angela says shaking her head at Tim. Tim rolls his eyes again and wraps his arm around Lucy’s shoulder. She looks up at him with nothing but love in her eyes. 

Two weeks and they would be married.

Two weeks and they would be husband and wife.  

It couldn’t come soon enough because wedding planning was stressful. And even though they did have help from their friends. They were doing everything for the most part. The flowers, the cake, the food. 

And he knows at the end of the day the only thing that would matter was getting to marry Lucy. To saying I do and promising to love her forever and always. 

“I was planning on it for awhile.” Tim says looking down at Lucy who is now curled up into his side. “I didn’t need anyone to tell me. I knew I was going to do it.”

“Didn’t Lucy almost propose to you?” Angela asks looking amused. Lucy lets out a laugh and puts her hand on his knee.

“I almost did it.” She admits. “But he took over pretty quickly.” Tim just smiled a little, the proposal wasn’t exactly what he had planned but it turned out better than he thought. 

It was special and it was something he would never forget.

Exactly how it should be.

Tim presses a kiss to the top of Lucy’s head, leaving his lips there for a few seconds and breathing her in. 

She is and always would be his safe place to land, the person who loves him through the ups and downs. The one person who he knows would be by his side no matter what.

She is his home. 

Even when they weren’t home—even when they were out at a bar. He had his home right by his side. 

“I’m going to get another drink.” Angela says standing up. “You two need anything?” They both shake their heads and Tim waits for her to disappear before Lucy is pulling away from him.

“You good?” Tim asks. Lucy nods and she has a soft smile on her face. She reaches out to touch his cheek.

“What’s on your mind?” Lucy asks softly. Tim brings her hand down and squeezes it. And then takes a deep breath before he’s letting it out. He has told her this before, he has told her it many times but he just wants her to know. 

“I’m just happy.” He says and he realizes he has never said that out loud. “You’re my home Luce. And I can’t wait to marry you.” 

“You are amazing.” Lucy says her eyes sparkling but they are wet with unshed tears. “I love you so much Tim. You’re my home too.” 

Tim just smiles at her, and brings her in for a kiss. And he felt like he was home, he was with his favorite person in the world. 

And in two weeks this would be forever.

***

“Are you ready to go?” Lucy asks coming up next to Tim. Tim reaches for her hand and gives it a squeeze. 

“Yeah.” He says softly. They walk through the hallway not saying a word but it’s a comfortable silence. “I’m ready.”

They get to his truck and Tim pauses outside of it. She looks up at him curiously wondering why he suddenly stopped.

“Everything okay?” She asks. Tim nods and he is smiling a little. He puts his hand on her cheek and then leans down to kiss her.

“We are getting married in a week.” He says. Lucy’s heart starts to race a little at his words. 

A week.

One week and they would be husband and wife.  

“I know.” She says. “I can’t believe it’s only a week away.” Tim smiles and he thinks of all the planning they had done. All the blood, sweat and tears they put in this wedding. It was all coming together in one week. 

And he couldn’t wait.

He couldn’t wait to marry her, and go on their honeymoon and then just go home to the place they made their own. To each other. 

“I can’t wait.” Tim says softly and presses his lips against her ear. “I love you.” He hears Lucy sigh happily, and he leans back a little.

“I’m glad you’re my home.” Lucy says. “Speaking of—do you want to get out of here?” Tim nods and takes her hand pulling her up. 

“Let’s go home.” He says. And she nods as she climbs into his truck and he goes to the other side to get in. 

Because they are each other’s home. Because sometimes a home isn’t just a place but a person. The person that makes you feel safe and loved. 

And that’s all that Tim could want. 

You’re my home.

You’re my home. 

Notes:

Up Next: Tim and Lucy’s big day!

Chapter 22: Take my name

Summary:

Tim and Lucy’s big day.

Notes:

I hope you enjoy this chapter! 🩵

[Take my name and make it yours]

***

“Are you ready?” Angela asks as Lucy looks in the mirror. She already has her dress on, her hair and makeup are done. She turns her head to look at Angela who technically was supposed to be with Tim but she had been running back and forth between the two of them all day. Lucy also has a feeling Tim sent her to check on Lucy. 

“Yes.” She says and she steps back to look at Angela. “How is he? Is he—”

“He’s great.” Angela says. “He’s ready to do this.” Lucy smiles and turns back to look at herself in the mirror. She hadn’t seen Tim since last night at the rehearsal dinner. They had decided to sleep apart and even though it was hard. She hasn’t spent a night apart from Tim in a long time and it just didn’t feel right not having him next to her.

“Good.” Lucy says. “I’m ready too. Can you—” She pauses when she sees the door open and Celina walks through it. Her eyes light up when she sees Lucy, a knowing smile on her face.

“You look beautiful Lucy.” She says. “Are we going to see Tim cry?” Lucy just shakes her head at her friend and then turns to Angela.

“Can you check up on him? Tell him I love him.” She says. Angela raises her eyebrows at her but she starts walking towards the door.

“I think he knows that Lucy.” She says. “You do look beautiful by the way.” Lucy smiles and looks back in the mirror.

In less than an hour she would be standing in front of Tim. 

They would be saying their vows to one another.

And she would be taking his last name. 

Oh she couldn’t wait. 

***

Tim hears a knock at the door and he barely has time to say come in before Angela is walking through it.

“Hey.” She says. Tim doesn’t turn around at first, he’s looking at himself in the mirror picturing Lucy in front of him. It seemed like the last few hours had dragged on and all he wanted was to see her. To pull her into his arms. 

Soon she would be his wife. Soon she would take his name and they would be husband and wife. 

At last.

“Hi.” Tim says finally turning around to face Angela. He’s grateful that she agreed to stand by his side but was also going out of her way to make sure Lucy was okay. “Everything good?” 

“If you mean Lucy then yes.” Angela says giving him a smile. “She sent me back in to check on you and she says she loves you.” Tim smiles and plays with his cuffs a little. He never thought he would be getting married again. 

Especially after Isabel.

It wasn’t because Isabel was his great love because she wasn’t. In hindsight, it was a whirlwind romance and while at a time they were in love—it wasn’t nothing compared to what he felt for Lucy. 

He never thought he would be married again because of the trauma, the fear of it not working out. The fear that he was just too damaged. 

Until Lucy.

The minute they started talk in about grandkids on their redo first date—he knew. Lucy was it for him, and even if it got complicated in the middle and he lost her. 

He got her again. They found each other again.

And now—

She was going to be standing in front of him and he was going to do his best to not cry because this was everything he wanted.

“Tim?” Tim turns to sees Genny in front of him. He had been so lost in his thoughts he hadn’t heard her come in. “Are you ready?” Tim nods and he starts to follow Angela and Genny out of the room. 

They line up one by one. Angela’s kids are the ring bearer and flower girl with Tim’s nephews helping them out. Angela and Aaron are standing up with Tim while Celina and Nyla are standing with Lucy. 

Tim makes his way out to the alter, feeling a little jittery. 

This is it.

The day they had both been waiting for. 

It was happening.

The music starts and Tim holds his breath as he sees Lucy and Grey walking down the aisle. Lucy’s parents hadn’t returned a RSVP, and even though she tried not to show he knew she was disappointed and frustrated. And then Tim had an idea— and he didn’t know if Lucy would go for it but—

Grey had been there for them both. Through the good and the bad and the ups and downs. He was like a father to both Lucy and Tim. And he was honored when Lucy asked him to walk her down the aisle. 

And officiate the wedding.

Tim keeps his eyes on Lucy as they approach and he can tell he’s going to be emotional through this whole thing. 

Lucy approaches and gives Grey a hug, Tim reaches out to shake his hand and then pulls Lucy up. Grey takes his position in front of them and it begins. 

“We are gathered here today—” Grey starts but Tim barely hears it. He is focused on Lucy who is watching him with a soft smile on her face. He hears Grey speaking in the distance but all he sees is Lucy.

“Tim?” Grey’s voice does bring him out of his daze and he tears his eyes away from Lucy to look at him. “Your vows.” 

Right.

He feels Angela nudge him and he looks back to see her handing him a piece of paper. He takes and unfolds it and looks at Lucy. He spent hours on his vows, writing down and erasing everything he wanted to say. He got it to a full page front and back. 

“Lucy.” He starts his voice a little shaky. “I love you. You’re my best friend. You saved me even when I didn’t deserve it. You bring the best out of me and make me want to be better.” He pauses to look at her and she has tears in her eyes. He continues looking down at the paper. 

“I know our story hasn’t been the easiest. We have hit bumps and I messed up. I know I am not perfect but I also know you don’t expect me to be. You encourage me, you love me through it all and I will always be thankful for you.” He says. “I never expected to fall in love with you but I did and I will always love you. You are the best part of me. I can’t wait for our new chapter. It’s just you and me. And I wouldn’t want to do it with anyone else. I can’t wait for you to take my name. I can’t wait to see what our future brings.” 

Lucy sniffs and he squeezes her hand a little looking around at everyone. “I love you Lucy. Always and forever. I am right here. Always.” His hands shake as he turns the paper over. 

“Just know I will always be with you to support and encourage you. Not just because I love you because you deserve that. You deserve that support and love. I will be there for you for better and for worst. And being your husband will be the greatest honor. I love you.” He looks at her and then over his shoulder at Angela. 

“Angela once told me that you were the best thing that has ever happened to me. And if I ever got you back I better say a prayer of gratitude every night. And she was right. You are the best thing that has ever happened to me. And I am so thankful for you.” 

He folds the paper up and puts it in his pocket. Lucy pauses for a minute and then Celina is handing her a piece of paper. Tim watches as Lucy takes a deep breath and unfolds the piece of paper. 

“Tim.” She starts her voice uneven. “You are my best friend. You have always been there for me no matter what. You never gave up on me. We got lost along the way, and things fell apart but you made it right.” She pauses and she has to take a deep breath before she continues. Tim does too because he knows he won’t be able to control himself if he doesn’t take deep breaths now.

“You always believe in me. You put aside your own feelings to encourage me. You always put me first and I know you love me hard because I love you just as much. You are everything and if I don’t say it enough you are worth it. Every single day. You make everyday better, and you deserve love. And I will tell you that for the rest of your life.” She pauses again and wipes a tear from her eyes. 

“You are always saying I saved your life and I fixed you but—the truth is you also saved my life. You found me when I was in that barrel and you pulled me out. ” She takes a deep breath and lets it out and then wipes the tears from her eyes. “You saved me over and over in ways you don’t even know. You lifted me up when I needed it and you walked through hell with me. I don’t think I say it enough but: I love you. Now and forever. Forever and always. I cannot wait for this chapter of our lives to begin. I know our future is going to be amazing and I can’t wait to see it unfold.” She pauses again and looks around too before her eyes find him again 

“There aren’t enough words to tell you how much I love you. But I do. Always. I cannot wait to take your name and to begin this life with you. I love you.” She folds the paper back up and Tim feels like all the air has left him. 

He’s going to remember this day for the rest of his life—he wants to remember it for the rest of his life. 

“Tim.” Grey says again. “Do you take Lucy to be your lawfully wedded wife? To honor, and cherish through sickness and health. Will you honor her through joys and pains and whatever life may throw at you? Till death do you part.” Tim nods and looks at Lucy who has tears streaming down her face.

“I do.” 

“Lucy.” Grey says turning to look at her. “Do you take Tim to be your lawfully wedded husband? To honor and cherish through sickness and health. Will you honor him through joys and pains and whatever life may throw at you? Till death do you part.” Lucy reaches out for Tim’s hand and squeezes it.

“I do.” 

“Now we are going to exchange the rings.” Grey says. Celina hands Lucy Tim’s ring and Tyler hands Tim Lucy’s ring. 

Grey starts talking again but Tim can only see Lucy. And then they are sliding the rings on each other’s fingers. 

“Now repeat after me Tim.” Grey says. I promise to love you and commit to you my whole life. I promise to be there for you when you need me, to be honest with you, to be faithful to you and you alone, and to walk through the valleys of life together, just as we will stand atop mountains together, too.”

Tim repeats the words never taking his eyes off of Lucy. Grey turns to Lucy and she repeats them too.

“It is a great honor to have been able to officiate this wedding. These two have been through hell and back but they have always managed to come back together.” Grey says. “It’s been a honor watching them grow. I know you both can get through anything together.” He pauses and Tim smiles at him gratefully. 

“I know pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride.” He says. Tim doesn’t hesitate, he just pulls Lucy into his arms and kisses her. He hears the crowd in the background but it’s like it’s only Lucy. 

She hold on to him as he kisses her and she is smiling as he pulls back. “We did it.” She mutters. “We’re married.”

“Yeah.” He mutters pressing a kiss to her forehead. “Thanks for marrying me.” 

“Thanks for asking.” She says grinning at him. “I love you Bradford.” 

Tim smiles at her and he can’t help it. “I love you too Bradford.” He says and the smile that breaks across face is worth everything. 

Take my name and make it yours. 

Tim takes her hand and leads her down the aisle. They have a long night in front of them with their friends and family but right now—

They could just be husband and wife for a few minutes and that’s all he could ever want.

***

“Have you seen my husband?” Lucy asks Miles. Tim’s rookie turns to look at her with a soft smile on his face. Lucy was actually the one who insisted that Tim should invite Miles to the wedding. And he did with little to no argument. The rookie had made a bigger impact in Tim’s life and she knows he’s thankful for him.

“I think he was just looking for you.” Miles says. “He was grumbling about something.” Lucy rolls her eyes a little. 

Because no matter what or how grumpy her husband was—

God how her husband—she would never get used to that. 

“There you are.” A voice says from behind her. She turns on heels and sees Tim standing behind her. His suit and tie is surprising still intact. He’s holding a beer in one hand and what looks like tequila in the other. 

“Hi.” She says stepping closer to him. “I lost you.” Tim hums softly and hands her the glass. 

“I can’t leave you alone for a second can I?” He asks. He wraps his free arm around her waist and they sway a little. 

“Please don’t.” She says softly. “I kind of like you.” Tim chuckles softly and then he kisses her gently and softly.

“I kind of like you too.” He says. “A lot. You look beautiful.” Lucy’s heart racing as she leans up to kiss her husband. 

“You don’t look too bad yourself Bradford.” She mutters and she knows what he’s going to say before he opens his mouth. 

“Okay Bradford.” He says taking her drink from her and putting it aside along with his beer. “What do you want to do now?”

There are a lot of things Lucy would like to do. Like take Tim up to their hotel room and have him get her out of her dress. Or just take him to a corner and tell him how much she loves him. 

But they couldn’t do that right now—this was their wedding after all and Lucy wanted to soak it in as much as possible.

They did have tonight and their honeymoon was just days away.

“How about we dance?” Lucy asks. “I seem to remember you have some moves.”

“Oh yeah?” He asks. He takes her hand and leads her to the dance floor. He pulls her in close and she looks up at him. 

“Hi.” She mutters and she’s still in awe. She’s still amazed that she has a husband. 

“Hi.” He says back and he looks equally amazed and in awe. “How are you doing?”

“Pretty good.” She says. “I am a Bradford now.” Tim spins her around and then pulls her back in and she knows people are watching them but it’s like they are the only two in the room.

“How does it feel?” He asks. She lays her head on his chest as they sway. She’s not even sure of the song in the background. She just wants to be near Tim. 

“Pretty good.” She says. “How are you feeling?” She waits for his answer as they sway.

“I’m happy.” He says and Lucy believes him. She’s not sure she has ever seen him this happy. “I’m glad you took my name.”

“Me too.” Lucy says. “Now it’s both of ours.” Tim nods and she feels a soft kiss to the top of her head.

“Take my name and make it yours.” Tim says softly and he spins her around again. “I’m yours.” Lucy nearly melts at his words. She has known this for awhile but it’s good to know it’s true. 

“I’m yours too.” She whispers. She’s leans in closer to his ear so only he can hear. “And I can’t wait for you to get me out of this dress.” 

He makes a soft noise, and then brings her up to kiss him. “Lucy.” He mutters but he doesn’t say anything else and he doesn’t have to. 

They will get up to their room eventually. 

But for now this is perfect. 

***

Tim loses sight of Lucy for the second time that night. They had been dancing and then someone had pulled her away from him much to his dismay and now he couldn’t find her in the crowd.

“Hey.” A voice says behind him. Tim turns quickly only to see Angela behind him. She has Emmy on her hip, and she is smiling big. 

“Hey.” He says looking over her shoulder hoping to see Lucy. “Have you seen—” Angela doesn’t seem to hear him because she is suddenly putting Emmy in his arms. 

“I will be right back.” She tells him. “I think Jack got away from Wesley.” Tim rolls his eyes but bounces the baby on his hip.

“Well I guess I have a buddy to help me find Lucy huh.” Tim says. Emmy just laughs and rests her head on his shoulder. 

Tim goes through the crowd past Miles and Aaron who are somehow hitting it off and then—

“There you are!” Lucy says walking towards him. “Oh and you have someone new.” Tim hums softly and leans forward to kiss her.

“Emmy wanted to help find her aunt Lucy huh?” Tim bounces the little girl who looks up and reaches out for Lucy. Lucy takes her and settles her on her hip. 

“Well you found me.” She says looking over at Tim. “Just stick by me okay? I don’t want to lose you again.” 

“You got it baby.” He says. He puts his hand on her lower back and leads her through the crowd. He watches as Lucy bounces Emmy a little making her giggle and he thinks of Lucy with their baby sometime in the future.

He thinks of the chapter that they are about to embark on. And the future ahead of them looks so good.

“You good.” Lucy asks moving closer to him. Emmy reaches out for him and he takes the baby from Lucy. She curls up into Tim, and he swears he sees Lucy swoon a little. 

“What?” He asks curiously. Lucy shrugs but she keeps her eyes on Emmy and Tim.

“Just thinking about you and our baby one day.” She says. She reaches over to brush some hair out of the baby’s face. “You are going to be an amazing dad.” 

“And you will be an amazing mom.” He says. He looks around and sees Angela walking towards them with Jack by her side. He gives Emmy to her when she reaches them and then he pulls Lucy in closer.

“One day.” Lucy says. Tim nods and they sway a little. “But for now—”

“Yes?” 

“Let’s enjoy it being just the two of us.” She says. “We have tonight and our honeymoon…” She trails off and he can’t help the smile that spreads across his face.

They have a lot to look forward to in the future but for now—

It’s just the two of them and he’s going to take full advantage of it. 

And he can’t wait to get their married life started.  

Notes:

Up next: The wedding night.

Chapter 23: Do not disturb

Summary:

‼️CHAPTER RATED M! For sex and smut and all that good stuff! ‼️

Tim and Lucy’s wedding night

Notes:

‼️CHAPTER RATED M! For sex and smut and all that good stuff! ‼️

I hope everyone is enjoying this story! 💙

And yes I upped the chapter count again 🫣

[phrase. Do not disturb. used to show a desire for no interruptions]

***

“I can’t believe we are married.” Lucy says as they step into the elevator to go up to their room. Their honeymoon suite that Tim insisted they get for the night. “Can you believe it?” She peers up at her husband who is holding her close to him. His cheeks are a little flushed probably from the alcohol and the adrenaline of getting married. His shirt is halfway unbuttoned and his tie is now around his neck. 

He looks as tired as she feels but also happy. 

“It feels like I just proposed to you. Tim mutters. He looks at her and then reaches to press the button for their floor. 

“Yeah.” Lucy says leaning into him. She wavers a bit on her heels and he pulls her up so she doesn’t fall. 

“Love you.” She mutters. Tim turns her around backing her into the back of the elevator. Her eyes go to the top of the elevator where it’s slowing making its way up. They had about 8 more floors to go.

“I love you.” Tim says his breath warm against her skin. She sighs happily, and she wonders if she will ever get used to this. 

Her husband.

She puts her finger under his chin and tilts it up gently so she can look at him. “What does my husband have planned for tonight?” She smirks at the look on his face, and she realizes he’s probably not used to being called a husband. “I was thinking maybe we should sleep since—”

Tim lowers his hands down to her lower back and plans with the ties there. She knows he won’t undo them until they are in the room but he likes to tease. And he will do it for as long as he can until it drives her up the wall. 

It’s one of the many things she loves about him. He takes his time with her—every single time. 

“Oh there will be no sleeping tonight.” He mutters. “I’m going to worship my wife exactly the way she deserves.” 

“Tim.” She whispers hoarsely as a shiver goes down her spine. Tim just smiles at her and kisses her. She moans a little when it goes a little harder than she thought he would. “Fuck.”

“We will get there.” He says just as the doors open. He spins her around and walks her out of the elevator. She giggles as he attaches his lips to her neck and walks her backwards. They had done this a million times before. They get to their room, and Tim pulls out the key and taps it against the door but he never takes his eyes off of her.

He opens the door and they both stumble through it. He tosses the card aside and then pauses as he takes her face in his hand and brings her down for a kiss. He pulls back suddenly and she protests trying to pull him back desperate for his lips on hers again.

“Just a second.” He mutters and he backs away going the few feet back to the door and taking something off the handle. He turns around and shows Lucy a grin on his face.

Do not disturb. 

Oh.

Right. 

“Smart.” She says. Tim turns back around and unlocks the door and puts it on the outside and then shuts and locks the door again. And then he’s back in her space in two big steps and she’s feeling a little dizzy again.

“Now where were we?” He asks his voice low. His hands trails down her back and to the tie she knows he’s been itching to untie the whole day. 

“I believe you were about to take me to bed.” She says. He hums softly but doesn’t say another word as he unties her dress and then backs her towards the bed.

“You are so damn beautiful.” He mutters. Lucy flushes a little and she’s not sure if it’s because of the way Tim is touching her or the fact that she knows this is about to be the best damn night of her life.

“You aren’t so bad yourself.” She says looking up at him. She has always known Tim is handsome even back when she was a rookie and she couldn’t think of him that way. And as their relationship developed and they got together it became more evident just how handsome he was. 

She reaches out to trace a line along his cheek, and then traces his lips. 

Tim grins at her looking a little smug and then his face softens. “You’re all mine.” He says tightening his grip on her. “I actually get you for the rest of my life?” He poses it as a question and Lucy quickly gives him her answer.

“Yes.” She says pulling him down into a kiss. “For the rest of your life.” Tim pushes the thin straps off her shoulders making the dress fall a little. He dips his head down and presses a kiss in between her breasts. 

“Thank god.” He mutters. He pushes the dress down more and it falls at her feet. She steps out of it and she’s about to tell Tim to just leave it when he gathers it up and carries it to the closet and hangs it up carefully. 

She watches him as he turns back around and heads towards her. “I don’t want it to get ruined.” He says shrugging. 

“Come here.” Lucy says and he steps towards her. It’s quick after that, soon Tim is standing in just his boxers staring at her like she hung the moon and the stars.

“Easy to take off.” He says his eyes on her breasts. She had worn a strapless bra and it was just barely holding her breasts in. 

“Mmm.” Lucy says as Tim moves the bra down. “Just for you.” Tim gives her a look that says he better be the only one to take everything off of her.

He backs her into the bed and she falls down on her bottom while he falls to his knees. She imagined what their wedding night would be like. And she has a feeling it’s going to be everything she imagined and more. 

“God Luce.” He mutters his face in between her thighs. “God I love you.” She runs her fingers through his hair, her ring sparkling as she rests her hand against the back of his head. He pulls her underwear down and she tips her head back her fingers gripping his shoulders. 

She feels him teasing her, feels his mouth everyone except where she needs it.

“Tim.”

“Patience baby.” Tim says softly not looking up but she can only imagine his face is smug. “We have all night.”

Lucy moans as Tim gently pushes her down so she’s on her back and he crawls up in between her legs. 

“All night.” She mutters. Tim hums softly as he gets back to work. He buries his face into her thigh and then moves his mouth over to where she needs him. 

He starts his dirty work, and she groans trying not to move as he hits all the right spots, all the sensitive spots. 

She grips the comforter and rises a little off the bed. “Fuck Tim.” She moans. Tim doesn’t say anything just reaches to rub her clit. She comes soon after that and she groans when Tim easily lifts her and moves her so she’s against the pillows.

“Thank you.” Tim mutters as he hovers over her. “Thank you for loving me. Thank your for marrying me.” 

Lucy pulls him down for a kiss and it’s dirty and long. Lucy pulls away a little breathless and then studies him. 

Their wedding was everything she dreamed of and more. It went smoothly, and she got to marry the love of her life. 

“It’s just you and me Tim.” She says her hands moving to his boxers. “Now and forever.” 

“Always.” He says. He finishes tugging down his boxers and kicks them off and then he lowers himself down and slides inside her easily. She moans gripping at his shoulders. He starts to move but his movements are slow.

It feels so good, it feels like he’s meant to be inside of her. He picks up his pace as he moves inside of her. She moves up to meet his hips and the moves back down and closes her eyes as he leans in to kiss her.

I love you. 

I love you.

I love you. 

She moans as Tim licks into her mouth and then moves it down licking between her breasts. 

“Fuck Tim.” She moans. “God keep going.” Tim just grins at her and keeps moving. She can feel herself getting tired and slipping a little. Tim must realize that too because he presses his lips against her ear.

“Are you getting tired baby?” He whispers his voice low and sexy. “We can’t have that.” 

“Not tired Tim.” She says softly. “My husband just went to work right away.” Tim hums softly and slows down his movements.

“I’m worshipping my wife the way she deserves.” He says. “We have all night baby.” 

All night.

Do not disturb. 

They did have all night and the best part was no one would disturb them. It was just her and Tim. And they were being connected as one, they were coming together. As one.

Husband and wife.

“Keep going.” She urges him gently as he kisses her up and down her body. “Like you said we have all night.” 

“You got that right Mrs. Bradford.” Tim mutters. Lucy comes  at that and Tim grins at her as he helps her come down from it.

Fuck.

She helps him find his own release although she knows this won’t be the last time for the night. Tim pulls out and falls on the bed next to her and then gathers her in his arms. He presses a kiss to the top of her head.

“How do you feel Mrs. Bradford?” He mutters. “Do you think you can go another round or are you too tired?”

“Always for you.” She mutters moving even closer to him. “Always for my husband.” Tim makes satisfied noise and she knows this will be one of the best nights of her life.

***

Tim wakes up and feels for Lucy but her spot is empty. He sighs and gets up and grabs some sweats from his bag and then moves around the room looking for his wife.

His wife. 

He finds her on the balcony in one of his sweaters with her legs pulled up underneath her. And he thanks the heavens for getting the honeymoon suite. It was a splurge especially since they had their two week honeymoon coming up but he knew it was going to be worth it.

“Hi.” He says bending down to press a kiss to the top of her head. She turns her head to look at him and a soft smile spreads across her face. 

“Hi baby.” She mutters. “What are you doing?” Tim sits down in the chair next to her and turns to face her.

“I could ask you the same thing.” He says. “Why are you out here and not in bed with me?” Lucy chews on her bottom lip and turns in her seat. 

“I just needed some fresh air.” She says. “I have a feeling we are going to be in our room on the honeymoon.”

“Probably.” He agrees. “Are you okay?” Lucy nods and reaches out to touch his face. Her ring is cool against his skin.

“I’m more than okay Tim.” She says. “We are married and we just had an amazing night together where no one interrupted us.” 

“Do not disturb.” He says grinning a little. Lucy smiles at him nodding and leaning forward some more. 

“Exactly.” She says. “I just needed to breathe a little. It’s a little overwhelming.” 

“I understand.” He says. “You could always wake me.”  

“I love you so damn much Tim.” She says. “I will go anywhere and do anything with you.” 

“Good.” Tim says and he stands up and pulls her up with him. “Then come back to bed with me.”

“Are we going to go another round?” Lucy asks and he grins at her sliding his hands underneath the sweatshirt. 

“If you want.” He says. 

“I want.” She whispers. “We still have a few hours.” Tim nods in agreement and backs her back inside the room. He closes the door and then pulls her towards the bed. He pushes her down and she falls down and grins up at him.

“Thank god for that do not disturb sign.” She mutters as he pushes the sweatshirt up and pulls it off of her. 

“Yeah.” He mutters. “Thank god.” This is just the beginning of their forever and they still had their honeymoon to go.

But for right now—

This is all he needs—just him and Lucy and the do not disturb sign hanging on the door. 

Do not disturb.

Do not disturb.  

Notes:

Up next: Their honeymoon

Chapter 24: Our honeymoon begins

Summary:

Tim and Lucy go on their honeymoon

Notes:

This turned out a little longer than I thought. Shoutout to the people who helped me come up with a place for their honeymoon

[Fancy is free but are we who are bound to each other by love.To each other by love.]

***

“Are you ready?” Lucy asks Tim as they wait to load the plane. “Two whole weeks of just us.” Tim smiles over at her, and pulls her closer to his side. 

“I’m wondering why we didn’t do this sooner.” He says. He looks out the window and sees the plane has arrived and it would only be a matter of time before they were boarding and taking off.

“Me too.” Lucy says. “And we get to go to Italy. I don’t know if I will ever come back.” Tim looks over at her in amusement and then takes her hand in his and gives it a squeeze.

It had taken them some time to actually decide where to go. Lucy went as far as making up a spreadsheet and doing the pros and cons of each place. They had gone back and forth it for weeks and at one point Tim was sure they weren’t going to decide. 

Until Italy.

It just seemed right and it checked both their boxes. And really Tim would go anywhere with Lucy no matter what.

“Well if you don’t come back then I guess I won’t either.” Tim says shrugging. He has told Lucy this many times: where she is, he would be right there next to her. 

“Good.” She says laying her head on his shoulder. “I would miss you too much.” Tim huffs out a laugh as a comfortable silence falls over them. 

“This is going to be a long day.” He says. Lucy looks up and her eyes are sparkling a little.

“Worth it.” She says. “It’s going to be worth it.” 

And he can’t really argue with that. 

***

“Our honeymoon begins.” Lucy says as she puts down her stuff and looks around the villa that Tim had rented for them. It was right on the beach, something he knew Lucy would want and it had everything they needed. 

A full kitchen. A bathroom. A living room and an extra spacious bed that he knows will get a lot of use.

Tim hums softly as he watches her walk around the living room and then she goes out onto the balcony. Tim puts his stuff down and follows behind her. He wraps his arms around her and she falls back into him.

“It’s beautiful.” She mutters looking up at him and then out where the sandy beach meets the blue water.

“I did a lot of research.” He says. “The Amalfi coast just seemed perfect. And there’s so much other stuff to do and explore.” 

Lucy turns in his arms looking up at him in awe and wonder and he hopes she always looks at him like that. “This is perfect baby.” She says. “I think I would have gone anywhere but—”

“I know.” Tim says. “Now do you want to go sunbathe or do you want to do some exploring?” He takes his eyes off of Lucy and looks towards the bedroom and then back at her. She seems to know what he means because she takes his hand and pulls him back inside and well that was an easy decision.

***

Lucy sighs happily as she stretches out on the chair. She sees Tim at the bar ordering them drinks, his shirt is half buttoned and he has the sunglasses on she bought him before the trip. They had spent the day they arrived  in bed and tangled up in the sheets together. And then they went to get a small meal. And they went back to bed, once again tangled up in the sheets. Lucy wouldn’t want it any other way but there was no way she was not going to go to the beach and wear the bikini she bought specifically for this trip.

For Tim.

He hadn’t even seen it yet. She had covered up and as soon as they got to the beach he went to get drinks. She keeps her eyes on her husband as he makes his way back to her. He stops short when he sees her, his jaw dropping a little.

“Lucy.” He breathes when he gets closer to her. He hands her her drink and then stands next to her. 

“Do you like?” She asks. Tim takes his sunglasses off and puts them on his head and then leans down to kiss her.

“I don’t think there’s a part of you that I don’t like.” He mutters. She grins at him and pulls him down for a kiss. “Yes. I love it.” 

Lucy hums in satisfaction as Tim takes a seat next to her. He puts his sunglasses back on and opens the rest of the buttons on his shirt. Lucy licks her lips and stares at his chest. 

“Do you like what you see?” Tim asks a smug look on his face. Lucy nods and she’s not ashamed of staring. She has run her hands down that chest many, many times and it never gets old. 

“Always.” She says. She scoots her chair closer to Tim’s and he turns a little to face her.

“This is nice.” Tim says his eyes dart to her chest and then back up to her face. “It’s just us.”

“I know.” She says as Tim’s eyes dart back to her chest again. She grins and lays her back down. She got the most revealing but yet still modest bikini. It was barely holding her in but she figured it would be easy for Tim to take off.

“You know I love you right?” Tim asks. 

“I had a feeling.” She says. “You married me after all.” Tim just smiles at her and picks up his drinks he takes a sip of it and puts it back down.

“I love you too.” She says. She pinks up her drink and take a sip of it. She feels Tim’s eyes on her as she puts it back down.

“What?” She asks feeling herself blush a little. The intensity of his gaze was evident. 

“Nothing.” He says. “Come here.” He pats a spot in between his legs and she gets up and moves over to sit between them. She leans back against his chest feeling the immediate warmth of him.

He wraps his arms around her, and lays back against the chair. It’s silent for a few minutes and then—

“I never thought I would have a honeymoon.” He says softly into her hair. “Especially in Italy.” Lucy hums softly and picks up his hand looking at his wedding ring. She hasn’t taken hers off since they got married and neither had he. 

“Me neither.” She says. “You came up with Italy. Great choice by the way.” 

“I wanted it to be perfect for you.” He says. “You deserve this.” Lucy hums again and plays with his fingers. She twists the wedding ring on his finger, around and around.

“So do you. When was the last time you had a vacation?” She asks. 

“Does being on leave count?” Tim asks. Lucy snorts but shakes her head and looks up at him. 

“No.”

“Then I have no idea.” He says. “God that’s kind of sad isn’t it?” Lucy just looks up at him with a smile on her face.

“Well I’m glad your first vacation in a long time is with me.” She says. “On our honeymoon.”

“No place I would rather be.” He says. He moves his hands down and settles them on her belly. Lucy sighs happily and if she could stay right here forever she would. 

“How did you hide this from me?” Tim asks and she feels him playing with the string on the back of the top. 

“I have some other stuff you haven’t seen.” She says thinking of all the new lingerie she bought for this trip. She hadn’t even put it on yet but she knows she has time.

“Oh god.” Tim mutters. She turns her head to look at him. “All for me? You’re trying to kill me huh?” 

“Oh definitely.” She says. “And some of its really easy to take off.” Tim groans and she laughs turning around again as his grip on her tightens. 

And it was amazing that they were on their honeymoon in Italy. And they were married. 

Husband and wife.

Oh she never wants this to end. This bliss of being with the man she loves away from everything and a chance to just be them.

She has a feeling this is going to be one trip she never forgets.

***

Tim watches Lucy from across the restaurant as he waits for their drinks. She had even traded her bikini for a low cut dress. The back was open and it hugged her in all the right places. He had traded his beach attire for nicer pants and a shirt, that Lucy picked out for him because it matched her dress.

It had been a perfect day at the beach and then they went back to the villa and went through all the brochures on what to do next. Tim found a fancy restaurant and told Lucy to get dressed up and he luckily managed to get a reservation. 

And now—

He looks over at the bartender but he’s still making their drinks and then back at his wife who is now blocked by a man. Tim frowns and pushes himself off the counter, and watches them. He watches as the man moves out of the way and looks over at him. Lucy looks annoyed and Tim frowns even more. He walks towards them and stops next to Lucy’s chair. 

“Well you know where to find me.” The man says looking at Tim and then at Lucy. “When you get bored.”

“Not going to happen.” Lucy says drily. She looks up at Tim and reaches for his hand. He laces his fingers through hers and stares at the man until he slowly backs off.

“Asshole.” Lucy mutters. “He said he felt bad for me because I was all alone.” Tim hums softly and bends down to kiss her. 

“I will be right back baby.” He says and hurries off to get the drinks. He grabs them and then comes back to the table and slides Lucy’s at her.

“Thanks babe.” She says. Tim nods and leans back in his seat, studying Lucy in the low light. She is always beautiful and he tells her every single day but— 

She is glowing. 

It could be the alcohol or the fact that they are on their honeymoon but whatever it is he loves it and he loves her more for it.

“You’re beautiful.” He says leaning forward. Lucy tilts her head at him and gives him a bright smile. “I just wanted to let you know.”

“Thanks baby.” She says. “Are you having fun?” Tim nods and looks around the restaurant and it’s fairly busy and there’s a buzz in the air.

“Always with you.” He says. 

“I was thinking we can go wine tasting tomorrow. There’s a winery down the road from here.”

“Sounds good.” Tim says. “Whatever you want.”

“I have another bikini I can wear too.” She says with a smirk. Tim groans and he knows one day she’s going to be the death of him. 

In the best way possible.

“And your lingerie.” Tim says. Lucy grins at him, and he wonders what’s underneath her dress. 

“That too.” She agrees. She scoots forward in her chair and takes a sip of her wine. She holds up her glass and Tim picks up his. He has never felt this free before like the weight of the world isn’t on his shoulders anymore. 

“To us.” Lucy says. Tim clinks her glass with his. 

“To us.” 

***

“This is beautiful.” Lucy says cuddling into Tim. They are sitting on the porch of their villa watching as the sunsets. “We don’t get this at home.” 

“It is pretty.” Tim says looking over at her. He wraps his arms around her and pulls her into him. “All the city lights, the smog and everything blocking the beauty.”

“I don’t know.” Lucy says softly. “LA can be pretty. You just have to look for it.” Tim presses a kiss to the top of her head. 

“This has been an amazing trip Luce. There’s no one I would want to do this with other than you.” He says. “Only you.” 

“Our honeymoon ends.” Lucy says sadly and she wonders how two weeks went by so fast. They had done so much from just staying in bed to wine tasting to a hot ballon ride over the vineyards to just lounging on the beach to driving the Italian countryside to eating amazing food. 

She couldn’t believe it was over and they had to go back to their reality. 

“Yes but look at all the memories we created.” Tim says. “Besides this isn’t the end. This is just the start of you and me.” 

“Husband and wife.” Lucy says. Tim nods and she feels another kiss to the top of her head. “I love you and I can’t wait for all our adventures.” 

“Me neither.” Tim says. Lucy sighs softly and even though she’s sad the honeymoon is ending, Tim is right it’s not the end of them.

It’s only the beginning of a new chapter and she can’t wait to get started. 

Notes:

Up next: Tim and Lucy have crushes on each other.

Chapter 25: Crushing on you

Summary:

Tim and Lucy have crushes on each other.

Notes:

I’m pretty sure you can tell what the next chapter is 🤣

This chapter is dedicated to Jocelyn. Thank you for the idea and thank you for always being there for me 💜

This is just a fluffy, sweet chapter 🩵

[ A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person.— Mignon McLaughlin]

***

“Hi.” Lucy says coming through the door. Tim is waiting for her, a small smile on his face as she puts everything down and turns to look at him. She wraps her arms around his neck and kisses him. “Were you waiting for me?” Tim doesn’t reply right away instead he just kisses her again.

“Yes.” He says softly resting his forehead against hers. “I missed you today.” Lucy hums in understanding. It was a rare day, that Tim got off and she didn’t. It was weird getting out of bed and getting ready without him next to her. It was weird driving into work without him by her side.

“I know I missed you too.” She says. She untangles herself from him and he takes her hand leading her into the living room. “I can get more stuff done without you distracting me though.” Tim gives her an unimpressed look as they fall down on the sofa. He brings his hand to her cheek, and she feels his wedding band pressed against her skin.

They had been married for five months, five glorious months that made her heart beat every time. She still wasn’t used to the fact that Tim was her husband, they were married and she had his last name and she loved every minute of it. She still used Chen at work so it didn’t get confusing considering they were both sergeants but—

She was still Bradford through and through. 

“You are the one who distracts me.” He grumbles pulling her out of her thoughts. Lucy rolls her eyes and pulls him down for a kiss. 

“You don’t stop me.” She mumbles against his lips. She pulls back to study him closely. His blue eyes are bright, his face is soft as he watches her. She keeps her eyes on his face, and she realizes with a start. 

She has a crush on him. 

She is crushing on her husband and falling more and more in love with him. Every single day.

“Why are you looking at me like that?” Tim asks raising his eyebrows at her. “Are you okay?”

“Yes. I’m fine. I’m just—” She pauses and looks at him. “Crushing on you.” Tim raises his eyebrows even further looking perplexed.

“I’m sorry—”

“I have a crush on you and I know you are my husband and we are married. But I really, really like you. Well I love you but—”

“You have a crush on me?” Tim asks looking smug. “You have a crush on me?” 

“Don’t be smug Tim.” She says looking away from him. “Is it really that surprising?” 

“I mean it’s a good thing you love me.” He says. “We are married after all. But a crush?” He has a shit eating grin on his face that makes Lucy want to hit him and kiss him at the same time. 

“Don’t make me regret telling you.” Lucy grumbles. Tim just grins at her and pulls her in for a kiss. 

“You like me. You have a crush on me.” He says teasingly. Lucy groans and hits his chest but she’s not mad. Her husband was absolutely infuriating 

“You are infuriating.” Lucy mutters. She hears Tim laugh and a soft kiss to the top of her head. “But god I love you.”

“And you have a crush on me.” He teases her. Lucy rolls her eyes and pulls him down for a kiss. She gets this for the rest of her life, she gets to come home with or to her husband and she wouldn’t want it any other way.

***

“Why are you looking at me like that?” Lucy asks Tim. They are sitting on the couch, she has her phone out and the game is on but Tim can’t keep his eyes off of her for some reason. He loves looking at her, he loves watching her work or cook. He loves being able to do it without feeling like he can’t. And he’s used to looking at her this way—like she’s the only person that matters. And quite honestly most of the time she is the only person that matters. His heart beats for her and she keeps his world spinning every day. 

God he loves her.

And he has a crush on her. 

And he’s married to her, and he keeps falling for her every single day. 

“Like what?” He asks feigning innocence. “I can’t look at you?” Lucy puts her phone down and turns to look at him.

“You can. But you are looking at me like there is something—” She trails off and shakes her head a little. “Like there is something wrong.” 

“Nothing is wrong.” He reassures her. “I just like you.” Lucy raises her eyebrows at him, and there’s a small grin on her face.

“You like me? Tim, do you have a crush on me?” She asks her voice teasing as she leans in closer. 

“Yes. I’m crushing on you.” He says. Lucy grins at him and leans in further. 

“My husband is crushing on me.” She says her eyes lighting up. “That’s exciting.” Tim rolls his eyes and maybe it’s a little silly but—

He does fall in love with Lucy more and more every single day. And quite honestly he hopes he keeps falling in love with her.

Every single day. 

“If I remember correctly you have a crush on me too.” Lucy says. “So we are even.” 

“And I have no problem admitting it.” He says simply. “I will always have a crush on you.” 

“That’s good.” Lucy says and she’s grinning at him in a way he will never tire of. 

“So are you just going to admit that you have a crush on me to everyone?” She asks. 

“Yes.” He says softly moving closer to her. “I’m not ashamed to admit I have a crush on you baby.”

“I know.” 

“Remember all that lingerie you brought on our honeymoon?” He asks suddenly getting an idea. He saw her tuck it away when they got back from Italy and he hadn’t seen it since which was a shame.

“Yes.” She says. “I do.” Tim pulls her so she sitting on his lap. She wraps her arms around his neck. 

“Maybe you could bring them out again.” He says. “You know to help my crush.” 

“Are you using me Tim Bradford?” She asks leaning forward to kiss him. Tim gives her a wolfish grin and kisses her.

“Maybe.”

“Use away.” She says softly but her voice is full of promise. “If you are good…” Tim rolls his eyes and bops her nose.

“No promises Bradford. I’m not sure I can keep my hands to my myself.” He says grinning at her. She moves on his lap and he groans holding her so she stays still. 

“Call me that again.” She whispers. Tim grins at her and leans loving how close they were. 

“Bradford.” He whispers. “Bradford. Bradford.” Lucy groans as she leans forward to kiss him. 

“I am so happy I have a crush on you.” She says. “At least I know I will get lucky tonight.”

“Agreed. And you will definitely get lucky.” Tim mutters and he stands up and she slides off his lap. He pulls her to the bedroom and god he is lucky. 

So so lucky to have a crush on Lucy. 

***

Lucy finds the first sticky note on her pillow. She wakes up but Tim isn’t next to her, she groans and rolls over hearing a soft noise underneath her cheek. She sits up a little and looks down at her pillow.

It’s a sticky note and she blinks a few times before she picks it up and reads: I love you. I had to go in early. I made coffee for you. I will see you at work.

Lucy grins as she puts the note aside and slides out of bed. She is definitely benefitting from having a crush on Tim.

She goes into the kitchen and finds the coffee all ready to go she just has to warm it up. There’s a sticky by the coffee pot too. It only has a sentence on it but she loves it all the same.

This is because I’m crushing on you. 

She grins and pours the coffee and feeling luckier than ever to have Tim in her life. Maybe it’s because she’s still feeling the bliss of being married to him and she is still stuck in that phase but whatever it is. 

She loves it. 

She loves him. 

She’s crushing on him. 

And she’s perfectly okay with that.

***

Tim finds a sticky note on his bedside table one morning. He looks around for Lucy but she’s nowhere to be found. He knows sometimes when she can’t fall back asleep she will go for a quick run around the neighborhood. And sometimes she wakes him up to do the run with her but not all the time. 

And he gets it because he’s done the same thing. Sometimes she needs to clear her head,

He looks down at the sticky note and reads: I love you. I will be back soon. 

He smiles and puts the note aside, and slides out of bed. He goes into the bathroom, but iust as he’s about to turn on the shower the bathroom door opens.

“Hey.” Tim turns around to see Lucy holding a white box. “I got donuts.” Tim steps back and walks towards her.

“You went and got donuts?” He asks. She nods and he follows her out of the bathroom and into the bedroom. “Why?” 

“Because I’m crushing on you.” She says. “And I’ve been craving donuts. Maybe my period is coming or something.” Tim raises his eyebrows at her, as she puts the box down on the dresser and opens the box. It wasn’t unusual for them to have donuts or something sweet but he was usually the one who went and got it. 

“Do you want one?” She asks already picking one up and taking a bite of it. He nods and she hands him one. He studies her closely waiting for her to ask why he’s looking at her but she’s eating her donut not paying him any mind.

“Thanks baby.” He says. “Are you feeling okay?” 

“I’m fine. Why?” She asks. He shrugs his shoulders and takes a bite of the donut. 

“You got up early to go get donuts. You have been a little more tired lately and not able to sleep.” He says. 

“I’m fine.” Lucy says and then pauses as she finishes her donut and walks towards the bathroom. “I have to pee.” Tim watches her go and finishes his own donut. Lucy comes out a few minutes later with a smile on her face.

“It pays off having me as a crush huh?” She asks stepping towards him. Tim meets her halfway and as soon as her lips land on his he forgets about everything. 

“Definitely.”  He mutters against her lips. “I love crushing on you.” Lucy grins at him and he backs her towards their bed. He pushes her gently on to it and she lands on it bouncing a little. 

He was so so in love and crushing on his wife. 

He’s not sure how it could get better than that. 

Crushing on you. 

Crushing on you. 

Notes:

Up next: Lucy has something big to tell Tim.

Chapter 26: I am pregnant

Summary:

Lucy has big news for Tim and they have big news to share.

Notes:

I think everyone was waiting for this chapter 🤣. The funny thing is, I started writing this chapter weeks ago along with a few other ones. This one has just been sitting in the document ready to be published.

Anyway I hope you enjoy 🙂‍↔️

[I remember when I first heard your heartbeat. It had only been eight weeks.] 

***

“Lucy?” Tim calls the minute he walks through the door. “I’m home.” He pauses to put his stuff down but the house is silent. He frowns as he walks further into the house, a little uneasy at the silence. 

This was not normal for it to be so quiet especially when he knows Lucy is home. 

“Luce?” He calls out again. He gets to the bedroom and sees the bathroom door is halfway closed and the light is on. “Babe?” He pushes the door open and sees Lucy sitting on the toilet with her head down. He frowns some more and walks over to her feeling a little uneasy. 

“Lucy?” He says softly and she looks up, there are tears in her eyes which she wipes at furiously. 

“Hi.” She says her voice quiet. “I didn’t know you were home.” Tim frowns even deeper now, and looks down at her hands. She’s clutching something in them but he can’t tell what it is. 

“I was calling out for you.” He replies still looking at her. “What’s going on?” Lucy sighs softly and looks up at him there are unshed tears in her eyes. 

“I have something to tell you.” She says and she stands up putting her arms behind her back. 

“What’s that?” He asks curiously feeling more concerned than anything. It wasn’t often he came home to her upset and crying. She usually greeted him at the door, and pulled him inside so she could get him a beer.

It was a routine that he would always want with Lucy.  

“I am pregnant.” She says and she pulls out her arms from behind her back. She holds out the pregnancy test and he stares at it like it’s some mystical object. 

“What?” He asks feeling a little bewildered. They had only been married six months—the best six months of his life. And it’s not like they hadn’t discussed having kids because they had but they were still in their honeymoon period. “You—we are having a baby?” Lucy nods and he picks up the pregnancy test staring at the positive sign.

“I have been feeling off for the last month.” Lucy says. “And I went to get these tests thinking there’s no way I’m pregnant. I know we haven’t really discussed it and it’s a little unexpected but—” Tim stares at her a little not knowing what to say. 

Lucy had been extra tired lately, and craving stuff in the middle of the night or early in the morning. He questioned her but she just brushed it off and he didn’t really know how to keep pushing it but it made sense now. 

She was pregnant and they had no idea—

They were having a baby.

“I—We are having a baby?” He asks again looking down at the pregnancy test again. 

“Yes.” She mutters. “We are having a baby.” Tim shakes his head and stares at his wife. He was getting everything he has ever wanted. He has ever dreamed of, the woman he loves, a job he loves and now a baby. Now he was going to be a dad.

A dad. 

“Oh my god.” He mutters and he’s sweeping Lucy into his arms. His mind feels a little fuzzy from all this. He didn’t expect to come home to this news.

This wonderful, wonderful news. 

 “Why were you crying?” Lucy pulls back and there are more tears streaming down her face.

“Happy tears Tim.” She mutters. “I just took it on a whim and I didn’t expect it—I have a doctor’s appointment tomorrow to confirm.” 

“Oh my god.” He says again. “We are having a baby.” Lucy lets out a wet laugh and buries herself into him.

They were having a baby. He was going to be a dad. This was actually happening. 

“Are you happy?” Lucy asks pulling him from his thoughts. He looks down at her, wondering if he could even answer that without feeling like he was about to break down. 

The answer is yes, absolutely yes. He’s not sure he’s ever been happier except when they said I do six months ago. And they started their new forever. 

“Yes.” He says and watches as her face lights up. “I am so happy Lucy.” He says lifting her chin up. “We are having a baby. We are starting our family.” Lucy lets out a sob, and Tim just pulls her close.

It’s a little overwhelming. He’s not quite sure how to put it into words or feelings at the moment. 

“I love you.” She mutters looking up at him. “I’m glad you are my baby daddy.” Tim grins and he’s not sure how it could get better than this. 

“Me too.” He says softly still feeling overwhelmed but happy. “Me too.”

***

“There’s the heartbeat.” The nurse says running the doppler over Lucy’s stomach. Tim leans in and he’s hears the steady heartbeat. He reaches for Lucy’s hand and gives it a squeeze. 

“That’s amazing.” He mutters staring up at the screen. The baby—their baby isn’t much more than a grey blob but it’s there and it’s growing. 

With a steady heartbeat. 

Their baby.

“Healthy heartbeat.” The nurse says smiling at them both. “You are about 8 weeks along.” Tim watches as Lucy turns to look at the screen and then back at Tim.

“That’s our baby.” She says. Tim nods and leans down to kiss her on her forehead. 

And oh this was amazing—their baby. It was getting real for them. 

“That’s our baby.” Tim whispers back. The nurse smiles at them and then wipes the goo off Lucy and hands her the ultrasound pictures. 

“Congratulations.” She says. Lucy sits up and Tim helps her down and they walk out of the room hand in hand.

“It’s amazing.” Lucy says staring at the ultrasound pictures before she’s looking up at him. “We made this. We did this.” Tim smiles down at their baby, the one they would be meeting in 7 months. The one that would make him a dad and Lucy a mom. The one that would make him an even better person. 

This baby wasn’t even born yet and he loves it so much already. 

“Hey.” Lucy nudges him and he looks over realizing they haven’t moved. “Are you ready to go?” Tim nods and takes her hand as they leave the office. 

“Now what?” Tim asks because now it feels real. They have to start planning for their baby, they have to tell everyone they are having a baby—

“Now we go home and we start planning for our baby’s future.” Lucy says squeezing his hand. “It won’t be just you and me anymore.”

“I’m okay with that.” Tim says as they approach his truck. “I wouldn’t want it any other way.” Lucy gives his hand another squeeze before she’s standing on her toes to kiss him. 

“Me neither.” She says putting a hand on his cheek. “Me neither.” 

***

“I’m pregnant.” Lucy says to the room full of their friends and family. There are a few excited mummers around the room but nobody looks surprised. Tim raises his eyebrows at Angela who is grinning from ear to ear.

“Aren’t you surprised? Tim asks her wrapping his arm around Lucy’s waist. He loves being near her, he loves pulling her close and resting his hand on her stomach where their baby grows. 

“No.” Angela says looking over at Nyla who is grinning too. “Lucy was showing all the signs weeks ago and you two have been so secretive lately. I knew something was up.” Tim just rolls his eyes and pulls Lucy close to him. It was true they were keeping it a secret for a few weeks before they decided to tell everybody. 

“We weren’t being secretive.” Lucy says looking up at Tim. “We just wanted to keep it between us for a few weeks.” 

“Well congratulations.” Angela says and she looks between them. “Being a parent is the best thing you will ever do. It’s hard but I know you two can do it and you are going to be amazing parents.” 

“Thanks Angela.” Tim says drawing Lucy close to his side. It’s been a few weeks since they found out but he’s still trying to wrap his head around the fact that they are having a baby. 

He’s going to be a dad to a tiny human. 

A dad to someone who loves and trusts him. 

“Your heart is going to grow about 100 times bigger.” Angela says. “Being a parent changes you—for the better.” 

Tim just presses a kiss to the top of Lucy’s head feeling overwhelmed and happy at the same time. 

“We can’t wait.” Tim says softly putting a hand on Lucy’s stomach. Lucy turns to look up at him and her eyes are bright. 

“This is going to be our greatest adventure huh?” Lucy asks putting a hand over Tim’s. “Our baby.”

Tim can’t help but feel absolutely giddy and excited. Their baby. They were having a baby—together.

All his dreams that he never thought would happen were unfolding in front of him. He was married to his best friend, the love of his life. They both were happy with their jobs and were creating a life—together. 

And now they were having a baby.

He’s not sure how it could get better than this but he knows it will and he can’t wait to see everything else unfold.

***

“Can you believe it?” Tim asks later that night as they lay in bed. Lucy hums and turns to face him. She’s in nothing but  his shirt, and he loves it. 

“What?”

“We are having a baby.” He says. “We are going to be parents.” Lucy looks up at him and there’s a soft smile on her face. 

“I know.” She says. “It’s so real now—everybody knows and—” She trails off and brings her hand down to her stomach. Tim puts his hand over hers and he knows it will be awhile before he will feel any movement but—

There’s a baby in there. Growing and he can’t wait to meet them. 

“I love you.” He says softly and presses a kiss to Lucy forehead and then leads down to press a kiss to her stomach. “I love you baby.”

“We love you too daddy.” Lucy whispers back her fingers going through his hair and he knows this will be their greatest adventure and he can’t wait for it to get started. 

Notes:

Up next: Tim has some doubts about becoming a dad but Lucy reassures him.

Chapter 27: You’re not him

Summary:

Tim has some doubts of becoming a dad but Lucy reassures him.

Notes:

Peep the quote at the beginning.

I thought of this one randomly and thought it would be nice to add in. This one is more emotional and from *mostly* Tim’s pov. I hope you enjoy!

Also this is officially my longest story (word count wise) 🫣

[You’re nothing like him— Lucy Chen]

***

Tim stares at the ultrasound on the refrigerator—it had been there for a few weeks and he couldn’t stop staring at it. It still felt surreal that they were pregnant, that they were having a baby. 

Together. This wasn’t some dream he had dreamt up. 

He takes it off the refrigerator and holds it in his hands. His baby. Their baby. Made out of love. Half him and half Lucy. 

He loves the feeling that he is going to be a dad, he loves the anticipation of meeting his child but—

There’s also a feeling of doubt. There’s also his father in the back of his mind telling him he’s going to be a terrible dad. He’s going to be just like his father. 

He tries to shake it off, he tries to leave it behind but he just can’t. 

“Hey.” A voice says behind him. He turns on his heels to see Lucy standing there. She looks like she’s half asleep with her hair in a messy bun and his shirt. And he realizes he just got out of bed and wondered into the kitchen without a word. He couldn’t sleep though, and Lucy needed her sleep. “What are you doing?” 

“Just looking at our baby.” He says. He puts the ultrasound back on the refrigerator making sure it’s straight. “And I was just thinking—”

He moves in front of her and pulls her into a hug. “Yeah?” Lucy asks. “What were you thinking?”

“About my dad.” He says softly. Lucy makes a soft noise and pulls back to look up at him. “Remember when I said some people should never be parents?”

“Tim—”

“I have done everything to separate myself from my father.” Tim says. “He wasn’t a father in my eyes no matter what.”

“Babe—” Lucy tries again but Tim is on a roll and he needs to get this out before he can’t. This had been eating at him, and he knows himself he would hide from it and it would explode in his face. He didn’t want what he learned in therapy to go to waste. 

Talk about it. Don’t hold it in. 

“I just can’t help but think what if—what if I’m not meant to be a father? What if I’m just like him?” He says dipping his head down but Lucy puts her fingers under his chin forcing him to look at her.

“You. Are. Not. Your. Dad.” Lucy says firmly. “You are nothing like him. You are loving, and amazing.” Tim blinks at her, and she leans in closer and presses a kiss to his lips.

“Our baby is going to be so lucky to have you as their dad.” Lucy says when he doesn’t say anything. 

“It’s just—” He takes a deep breath and looks back at the ultrasound and then at Lucy. “What if I mess up?”

“Then you fix it.” She says. “But that doesn’t mean you are going to be your dad.” 

“You’re going to be an amazing mom.” He whispers. Lucy smiles at him, and he hates that he has these doubts but—

“And you are going to be an amazing dad.” She says. “I know that for a fact and I’m not just saying that because I love you. You’re not him. And you never will be.” Tim sighs softly and Lucy pulls him in for a hug. He buries himself into her, holding her and feeling every bit of her. He loves Lucy for trying to reassure him. He loves that he is having a baby with her. 

But—

His father’s voice was always there. It was always there telling him that he was who he was because of his father despite what Tim told him.

I am who I am in spite of you.

You’re nothing like him. 

You’re not him.

“I love you.” He mutters into her neck because it’s the only thing he can say right now. Lucy must understand because she doesn’t say anything She just holds him tighter and that’s all he needs right now.

***

Lucy finds Tim in the kitchen again staring at the ultrasound. It’s a few days after she first found him and she thought she got through to him that he was not his father.

He wasn’t even close to bring his father. The fact that he was worried about it told her everything she needed to know. 

He was going to love their baby more than anything. She wasn’t kidding when she said he would be the best dad. 

“Hey.” She says softly hoping she doesn’t startle him. He jumps a little and then turns to face her. He looks exhausted and she’s not sure if that’s from work or something else. “What are you doing?”

“How many weeks are you?” He asks his eyes darting to her stomach and then back up at her. “12 weeks?”

“And a few days.” She says. “Why?” Tim taps the ultrasound and he has a soft smile on his face. 

“Our baby is bigger now.” He says. “Even from this ultrasound.” Lucy smiles and nods and moves closer to him.

“According to the pregnancy app I have. It’s the size of a lime.” She says. She had been keeping track of the baby’s growth because she was still amazed that she was growing a tiny baby. 

“Oh?” Tim says. He bends down and presses a kiss to her barely there bump. “Hi baby lime.” Lucy lets out a soft laugh and he looks up at her.

“You’re going to be an amazing dad Tim. No matter what that voice in your head is saying. You are going to be amazing.” She says. “You love this baby so much already.” 

“I do.” He confirms. “It’s just my dad—he said he made me into the man I was today.” 

“Tim, your father was an alcoholic monster.” Lucy says and even she never got the pleasure of meeting Tom Bradford she heard enough about him to hate him. 

“I told him I was who I was in spite of him.” Tim says. “But what if I turn into him.” Lucy sighs softly, and makes her way to the refrigerator and pulls the ultrasound off.

“You’re not him.” She says her voice firm. “You will never turn into him because you know what is right and you always stay on the right side of the line. You don’t sway even if you sometimes try to make yourself seem like you will.” She holds the ultrasound up and Tim looks at it.

“This baby was made out of love Tim. Half you. Half me. All love. Your dad was never meant to be a parent. But you are. I know you want this baby right?”

Tim furrows his eyebrows and nods his head. “Of course.” He says. “Of course I want this baby.” 

“Then you are already several steps ahead of him babe.” She says. She reaches up and wraps her arms around his neck. “You want to be a dad despite all the doubts you have. And despite those doubts you are going to be an amazing dad.” 

“Have I told you I love you lately?” Tim mutters. “Because I do.” Lucy grins at him and they sway a little in the middle of the kitchen. 

“I love you too baby.” She says. “And we are both going to mess up but this baby will know nothing but love.”

“Agreed.” He says. “I’m sorry.” 

“Don’t apologize Tim.” Lucy says softly. “You are so amazing. And I wouldn’t want to have a baby with anyone else.” 

“Good.” Tim says swooping down to kiss her. “That’s good.” Lucy nods and she can only hope she has convinced him he will be an amazing dad—despite who his dad is. 

She can’t wait to see him with their baby, and she can’t wait to see their hearts grow when the baby is born.

This is going to be their greatest adventure.

***

“I love you baby lime.” Tim mutters later that night as they lay in bed. He puts his hand on her stomach and leans in a little closer. “I am your daddy and I’m going to love you so much.” 

He feels Lucy’s fingers in his hair but she doesn’t say anything so he continues. 

“You’re going to feel nothing but love from me baby.” He whispers. Lucy sucks in a breath and he looks up at her. 

“You’re already an amazing dad. Loving this baby and me.” Lucy says. “I know there are still doubts but you’re going to be amazing Tim. And I will be right there next to you.” 

“Good.” He mutters. He kisses her belly and then her. “Thank you.” Lucy makes a soft noise and runs her fingers through his hair.

“For what?”

“Always supporting me. Loving me. And telling me—”

“You’re not him.” Lucy says as if she knew what he was about to say. “You are so much better and so much more than him.”

Tim just lays there feeling overwhelmed but grateful. He knows these doubts and thoughts won’t go away right away. But he has Lucy to get him through and that’s all that matters to him. 

You’re not him.

You’re not him. 

Notes:

Up next: Tim and Lucy find out the gender of the baby… or do they?

Chapter 28: It’s a… baby

Summary:

Tim and Lucy find out the gender of their baby.

Notes:

I hope you enjoy this :)

Just a heads up: this may be the last chapter for a few days. I am going out of town and may not have time to write. Chapter 29 is started but not finished. So please be patient 🥹

[But, look at her, baby girl. And you'll learn how to be a lady.]

***

“We don’t want to know the sex of the baby.” Lucy tells the ultrasound tech and then looks over at Tim. “Right?” 

“It’s up to you Luce.” He says looking at her with a small smile. They had discussed this and Lucy was going back and forth it between knowing and not knowing. She knows knowing has its perks but not knowing and letting it be a surprise sounds kind of exciting. 

“I don’t want to know.” She says feeling confident with her answer and then she falters a little. “Or do I?” She sees Tim raise his eyebrows at her, and then she looks at the ultrasound tech who is waiting patiently. 

“I want to know.” She says. The tech smiles at her and lowers the Doppler on her stomach. “Wait! I don’t want to know.”

“Lucy.” Tim says softly and he comes to stand next to her but she ignores him. She has a million thoughts going through her head but none of them are helpful. 

“I think we should find out ya know? So we are prepared—and we don’t have to go scrambling for a name or anything.” She says. The ultrasound tech looks between them.

“So that’s a yes? You do want to know?” She asks. Lucy hesitates but nods her head.

“Yes.” 

“All right then.” The tech sounds finally lowering the Doppler to her stomach. Lucy looks over at Tim who is smiling at the screen. He reaches for her hand and gives it a squeeze. 

“Nice steady heartbeat, and looks active too.” The tech says. “Let me just get a good angle.” She moves it around and then stops a little bit. Lucy sees their baby on the screen looking a little bigger than last time.

“It looks like you are having a—” 

“Wait!” Lucy says suddenly. “I don’t want to know. I want it to be a surprise. Right?” She turns to look at her husband who is still looking at the screen.

“Sure babe.” Tim says turning to look at her. “I will be happy with a boy or a girl.” Lucy nods her head and the ultrasound tech blows out a breath.

“So you don’t want to know?” She asks. Lucy shakes her head and the ultrasound tech removes the Doppler.

“I’m sorry.” Lucy says. “I thought I wanted to know but—and maybe I do.” The tech looks at Tim who just shrugs.

“She’s been a little unsure of things lately.” He explains squeezing her hand. The tech gives him an understanding nod.

“How about this.. I print out a picture with the gender and put it in a sealed envelope. You can open it or not. And you can do it on your time.” She says not unkindly. 

“That sounds good.” Lucy says. The tech nods and puts the Doppler back on her stomach and moves it around. Lucy turns to look at Tim who is now looking anywhere but the screen.  Lucy keeps her eyes on her husband. His eyes are closed and he’s squeezing her hand tightly. 

“All right.” Says the tech and suddenly the lights are back on and she is cleaning off Lucy’s stomach. Lucy sits up and sees she’s writing something on an envelope. She seals it and then hands it to Lucy.

“It’s there. Open it or not but you have a very healthy baby.” She says smiling at them both. “Good luck.” 

Tim helps Lucy off the table and she clutches the envelope tightly in her hands. She could do this, she could wait. Sure she wants to know what to buy and she wants to pick out a name. 

But—

She could do this. 

They make it to the truck and Lucy presses the envelope into Tim’s hands. “Do you want me to open it?” He asks looking down at it.

“No. Yes. I don’t know. You decide.” She says hanging her head a little. She knows how difficult she’s being but she can’t help it. She just wishes she could make up her mind. 

“I’m not going to open it without you Luce. This is something we do together.” He says. Lucy nods and presses a kiss to his cheek.

“Keep it safe.” She whispers. “That’s our baby.” Tim studies her and then bends down to kiss her small bump. Their son or their daughter. It didn’t matter because it was theirs.

“I will.” He says fiercely and she knows that he means it. “I will.”

***

The envelope sits on the counter for a week until Lucy moves it to one of Tim’s drawers so she would stop being tempted to grab it every time she walked by it. 

And then Tim moved it to the coffee table after he decided to clean one of the drawers. Lucy then moved it back to the counter and soon it got lost in the mail. But once that was clear—

“Baby, just open it if you want to.” Tim says a few weeks after the ultrasound. “If you want to know just open it.”

“Do you want to know?” Lucy asks. “What do you think it is.” Tim hesitates a little a weird look washing over his face like he wants to say something but doesn’t want to at the same time. 

“I’m not good at that stuff Lucy.” He says. “I will be happy with a boy or girl.” Lucy blows out a breath and picks the envelope and flips it over.

She wants to know—she wants to know because she will love this baby no matter what. It doesn’t matter when they find out. This was their baby that they made out of love. The one that would make them a mom and a dad. 

She starts to open the envelope and Tim comes closer and then she stops. “You do it.” She says handing it to him. “I want you to see it first.” Tim shakes his head at her but continues to open it. He pulls the ultrasound out and his jaw drops a little.

“I knew it!” He says in one breath. “Oh my god.” Lucy frowns at him, she thought he said he wasn’t good at guessing.

“What is it?” She asks. “A boy? A girl?” Tim doesn’t respond nor does he look at her. 

“Tim!” She says feeling jittery. “What is it? Is it a dog?” Her husband still doesn’t respond, and she makes a frustrated noise and steps closer to him and peers down at the ultrasound. She blinks a few times and then she sees it and her heart nearly leaps out of her chest.

It’s a girl.

“Oh my god.” She whispers and it’s like her whole world just changed now that she knows. 

It’s a girl.

“Yeah.” Tim whispers and she looks up at him startled to see tears in his eyes. “We are having a baby girl.” Lucy nods unable to speak as Tim gathers her in his arms.

“A baby girl.” She mutters. She can’t wait to meet their daughter, to love her unconditionally and tell her how much they love her.

“A baby girl.” Tim mutters pressing a kiss to the top of her head. “I hope she looks like you.” Lucy giggles and smiles up at him and then she remembers something.

“What do you mean you knew?” She asks. “Did you see?” Tim turns away from her and she sees a red flush on his cheek. 

“It’s more of what I didn’t see.” He says turning back to her his cheeks a little red. “I just looked up briefly and it caught my eye—”

“So you knew this entire time and you have been watching me go crazy for weeks?” She asks aghast. Tim rolls her eyes and pulls her close again.

“Baby, you made yourself crazy not me. And I didn’t know for sure. I mean it could have been hidden?” But he even sounds unsure and she has a feeling he really did know but he was being respectful of her wishes. 

And she really loves him for it. 

“Oh my god.” Lucy says hitting him on the chest feeling all sort of emotions now that she knows she’s having a girl. She’s getting a daughter. “I’m pretty sure the absence of a pe—”

“Yes. I know.”  Tim says quickly. “I’m just saying Luce. I didn’t want to get my hopes up. I  thought I would always have a girl first.” 

Lucy’s mouth twitches into smile and she peers up at him. “You are officially a girl dad.” She says. “How does it feel?” Tim bends down to kiss her bump, and leaves his lips there for a few minutes. 

“It feels amazing.” He mutters. “Amazing and nerve wracking. God.” He rests his forehead there and she runs her fingers through his hair. She gets it, she feels pretty overwhelmed too. 

“You are going to be an amazing dad.” She mutters because it’s true and she can’t wait to see it unfold. Tim looks up at her and then stands up at his full height.

“You are going to be an amazing mom.” He says. He pushes some hair out of her face, and she just smiles at her. “I love you.” 

“I love you too.” She mutters and she can’t wait to be a family of three. Just her, Tim and their baby girl. Their daughter. 

“I love you baby girl.” Tim whispers bending back to her bump. “I’m your daddy and you are going to know nothing but love from me and your mama.” He kisses her bump and then stands back up and gathers her in his arms again.

“My girls.” He mutters into her skin and she feels a single tear hit her skin. His words ringing in her mind.

My girls. 

My girls.

Oh she likes the sound of that. She really likes the sound of that. 

“It’s a girl.” She whispers looking up at her husband with such awe that she gets to raise a daughter with him. 

It’s a girl.

It’s a girl.  

Notes:

Up next: Tim and Lucy prepare to be parents to be with a trip and a baby shower and the other important things.

Chapter 29: Parents to be

Summary:

Tim and Lucy go on a baby moon, talk baby stuff and get a baby shower.

Notes:

Sorry for the lack of updates! I was in Texas visiting my family and this chapter wasn’t quite done! I finished it on the plane, and I think it turned out pretty good!

I do already have the name picked out 🙂‍↔️. But I thought it would be fun to guess which one I picked 😌

Enjoy :)

[We are about to embark on the greatest adventure of our lives—parenthood.]

***

“A baby moon?” Tim asks giving Lucy a weird look. “A baby moon? Like a honeymoon but—”

“It’s just a chance to get away before the baby comes.” Lucy says. “It’s just a little get away.” Tim shifts in his chair, and he’s not quite sure what to say to that. On one hand, it sounded nice because they probably wouldn’t be able to get away after their daughter was born. They wouldn’t have time and she would be a newborn. But on the other hand, it sounded a little extra and Tim wasn’t sure how he felt about it.

“It sounds—where would we go?” He asks thinking maybe this wasn’t the best idea since she was pregnant. She was only in her second trimester but still—

“There’s this nice hotel on Catalina island.” Lucy says. “It has a lot of stuff to do and stuff I can do.” She puts her hand on her belly where their baby girl grows. 

“You would be okay?” Tim asks and he’s still a little hesitant. It does sound nice and it would be a nice getaway for them both.

“I would be more than fine.” Lucy says. “Come on baby. We need this. We are parents to be and we deserve it.” 

“Okay.” Tim finally says although that was probably his answer all along. “Let’s go on a baby moon.” Lucy grins at him, and he relaxes a little. This was going to make Lucy happy and he would do whatever it took to make her happy. 

Always.

***

Lucy books the trip but Tim researches it just like he did for their honeymoon. Lucy finds her husband at the dining room table with her laptop in front of him. There are papers scattered around all with his neat handwriting.

“What are you doing?” Lucy asks coming around to sit next to him. Tim glances over at her, and then back at the laptop. 

“You were right.” He says. “There’s tons of stuff to do here. And I found our hotel has a spa.” Lucy raises her eyebrows at him.

“A spa?” She asks. “But I—”

“There’s a option for a prenatal massage.” Tim says. Lucy gapes at him, her mouth falling open a little.

“Really?” She asks. “You did all this research?” Tim nods and turns in his seat so he’s facing her.

“You wanted this baby moon.” He says. “And I am going to make sure it’s amazing and relaxing. You deserve it. Baby girl deserves it.” Lucy can’t help the smile that spreads across her face nor can she help leaning forward and kissing Tim.

“You deserve some relaxation too Tim.” She says. “You’re a dad to be.” Tim’s face softens a little and he smiles turning the laptop towards her.

“There’s plenty for me to do while you get your massage. And then there’s plenty for us to do.” He says.

“You put a lot of thought into this.” She says. Tim shrugs his shoulders and starts gathering up the papers.

“We are parents to be.” He says. “This could be our last trip with just the two of us for awhile.” 

“Right.” Lucy says and she realizes once their daughter is born, it won’t be just the two of them. It will always be three.

“Go big or go home right?” Tim asks. Lucy stands up and bends down to kiss him.

“Right.” She says. “Thank you for doing this.” Tim puts his hand on her belly, and looks up at her.

“I would do anything for you and—” He pauses and taps her stomach. “And her.” Lucy smiles up at him and she believes him. He was always going out of his way to make sure she was comfortable. He never complained, he just took care of her. 

“I know you would.” She says softly. “And I love you for it.” Tim kisses her softly and then he goes back to the laptop. 

She sighs happily leaning back in her chair, she has a feeling this would be a really good baby moon.

***

“This is beautiful.” Lucy says looking around the room. Tim watches as she goes over to the window and looks out. They had arrived at Catalina island a few hours ago but just managed to get into their hotel room. There was so much to do and explore. Their hotel looked out over the water.

“It’s nice.” Tim says. He has spent a lot of time and energy trying to find the perfect place. The hotel he choose, seemed to have everything from the spa to the sports bar to the fancy restaurant. And much to Lucy’s delight there was a beach just down the road. 

“This is amazing Tim.” Lucy says turning to face him. “I can’t believe you found this.”

“Only the best for my girls.” He says. Lucy grins at him, and he wraps himself around her. “What do you want to do now?”

“I’m starving.” She says. “And so is baby girl. Let’s go eat.” Tim nods, presses a kiss to the top of her head and releases her. 

“That sounds perfect.” He says and he knows this trip is only for a few days but he’s going to make sure it’s the best one yet.

It was him and Lucy for now. Parents to be. 

***

“Baby girl and I will see you later.” Lucy says standing on her toes to kiss Tim. “We have a massage to get.” Tim grins at her, and pulls her close to him. 

“We really need to pick out a name for her.” He says. “She can’t be baby girl forever.” Lucy sighs softly. They hadn’t really discussed names since they found out they were having a girl. They had been busy with work, and then planning the trip plus starting to plan for the baby. They had only gotten a handful of stuff. But they still needed to put her nursery together.

“We will find the perfect name.” Lucy reassures him. “But right it’s time for us to relax. And focus on us.” Tim hums silently because she’s right as that was the whole point of this trip. 

To get away and relax before all the big stuff.

“Have fun at your massage.” Tim says. “Call me when you are done.” Lucy nods and he watches her go. 

He waits a few minutes and then walks down the street to the sports bar. They hadn’t wondered in here yet since Lucy couldn’t drink and they were busy doing other things. 

Tim takes a seat and orders a beer and looks up to see there’s a baseball game on. He grins and settles back into his chair. 

This was perfect. 

***

Lucy calls Tim once her massage is over, and he’s there in five minutes. Her legs feel like jello and like she could have been on the massage table all day long. She was in absolute heaven, and never had felt so relaxed.

“How was it?” Tim asks as he approaches her. Lucy moves towards him and he gathers her in his arms.

“Surreal.” She says. “It felt so good. I think it was the best massage I have ever gotten.” Tim frowns at her and she rolls her eyes pushing at his shoulders.

“Your massage led to this.” She says gesturing to her bump. Tim rolls his eyes and takes her hand leading her out of the lobby.

“Now what?” He asks. Lucy pulls him to a stop and looks up at him. He looks relaxed like he did on their honeymoon. 

“What did you do?” She asks. 

“Went to the bar and watched a baseball game.” He says. “The Dodgers lost because I didn’t have my good luck charm.” 

Lucy grins at him. “Is that right?” She asks. Tim shakes his head and his eyes go to her bump and then back to her face.

“I meant our baby.” He says. “It seems whenever I watch a game and you are next to me my team wins.”

“Then—”

“It started after we found out you were pregnant.” He says. “So—”

“You suck.” Lucy grumbles. Tim laughs and he kisses her forehead softly. 

“You’re my good luck charm too baby.” He says. Lucy rolls her eyes and he’s lucky she loves him.

“You are lucky I love you.” She says. “Or I would be leaving you right here.” Tim grins at her like he doesn’t believe her.

“I love you too Luce.” 

***

Tim wakes up and reaches for Lucy but she’s not there. It’s not weird or unusual—it’s been harder for her to sleep ever since she hit her second trimester. He rolls out of bed and wonders into the room’s living room and sees Lucy sitting on the balcony much like he found her when they were on their honeymoon. He smiles and makes his way out onto the balcony. He stops short when he sees a cup of coffee in her hands.

“Lucy—”

“It’s decaf babe relax.” Lucy says without turning to look at him. Tim hums pressing a kiss to the top of her head and sits next to her.

“Can’t sleep?” He asks. Lucy turns to look at him, and he sees she’s in one of his sweatshirts. She always seems to swipe his stuff when they are away—not that he minds.

“Something like that.” She says. “I was thinking about her name.” Tim raises his eyebrows at her. They hadn’t really discussed names yet, although he knew it was coming.

“What about it?” Tim asks. Lucy takes a sip of her coffee and then sets it aside. 

“We need to pick one out.” She says. “We have so much to do and naming her is just one of those things.”

“Okay.” Tim says slowly. He knows she’s right but he wanted the perfect name for his daughter. Something strong but feminine that she could carry with her. “What are you thinking?” Lucy is quiet for a minute.

“I want Mei to be her middle name. It means plum in Chinese.” Lucy says. “And it’s a symbol of resistance and endurance.” 

“It’s pretty.” Tim says. “What about a first name?” Lucy is silent again and she looks like she’s pondering it.

“I have two names.” She says. “I just don’t know which one I like more.” 

“Okay.” Tim says and he’s surprised she has even thought about this. “What are they?”

“Cora and Elsie.” Lucy says. “I like them both. I just—” Tim hums softly and scoots closer to her.

“They are beautiful.” He says. “I hadn’t really thought of any names.” 

“I know.” Lucy says. “And maybe neither of those—maybe we have to wait until she’s born.” Tim is silent this time and Lucy moves towards him a little bit.

“Whatever we choose it’s going to be perfect because it’s her name.” Tim says. “We can choose when she’s born.”

“I know.” Lucy says. “I know. We have so much to do Tim. And Genny wants to throw me a baby shower. We have to set up her nursery.”

“Lucy relax.” Tim says. “We will do it all okay? We still have time. We are on this trip to relax not worry about all the stuff we have to do.” 

“It’s a lot of stuff.” Lucy points out. Tim just shakes his head at her. 

“This trip was your idea. A baby moon. And you deserve to relax babe. You work so hard and you are carrying our daughter.” Tim says. 

“Right.” Lucy says. “You’re right. I deserve to relax.” Tim nods and he leans in to kiss her. 

“I love you.” 

“I love you too.” 

***

“Do we have to go back?” Lucy says sadly. “This was so nice.” Tim looks up from his bag and walks over to her. She’s feels him wrap his arms around her. 

“It was nice huh?”

“Very.” She agrees. “It was just nice to be able to be away from everything.” Tim puts his hands on her belly and rests his chin on her shoulder. 

“I agree.” He says. “But now we get to go home and plan for our daughter. That’s pretty exciting too.” 

“It is.” Lucy agrees looking up at him. “I love you.” Tim blows out a breath and comes around so he’s facing her.

“I love you too.” He says. It might be chaotic but they were going home to plan for their daughter, and that was okay with him.

***

“What’s the theme to the baby shower?” Tim asks looking between his wife and sister who were both grinning a little too much for his liking. “Why are you grinning like that?”

“What we can’t smile?” Lucy asks coming over to stand by him. She leans on him and he can’t help but wrap his arms around her. 

“What’s the theme?” He asks again looking at his sister this time. Genny is still grinning at him. 

“A new rookie.” Lucy says before she can say anything. “A new boot.”

Oh.

“That’s creative.” He says. Lucy grins at him and leans up to kiss him. “But should we really refer to our daughter as the new boot?”

“Yes.” Lucy says. “It’s time to pass it on. It’s only fitting it’s our daughter.” 

“Hmm.” Tim says and he has to admit he doesn’t hate it. It’s very on brand for the both of them, and while Genny was planning this whole thing he has a feeling Lucy came up with the idea.

“Speaking of.” Genny says. “Lucy, you had a present for Tim.” Tim raises his eyebrows at her and she grins and walks over to the kitchen and bends down. He looks at his sister who just shrugs and then watches as Lucy comes back up with a small bag. 

“Here.” She says. “I meant to give this to you earlier but—” Tim takes the bag and looks inside. He pulls the tissue paper out and reaches inside pulling out a pair of tiny boots. 

“Funny.” He says and he looks in the bag and pulls out a pink onesie. It has in white flowy writing: Daddy’s girl and on the back it says Bradford with two zero’s underneath the name. 

“Fitting isn’t it?” Lucy asks. “She’s already a daddy’s girl.” 

“I love it.” He says putting the bag down and pulling Lucy in for a kiss. “She’s gonna love her mama too.”

“Mmm.” Lucy hums. She gives him another kiss and then turns to Genny. “Everything is set right?”

“Yes.” Genny says. “Don’t worry about a thing Lucy. I got it okay?” Lucy nods and Tim turns to look at his sister again.

“When is the party?” 

“It’s not a party Tim.” Genny says. “It’s a baby shower and it’s in four days. You better be there.” Tim rolls his eyes and looks at Lucy who is grinning at him.

“I wouldn’t miss it.” Tim says. And even though a baby shower really isn’t his thing. He was doing it for Lucy and his baby girl. 

And he wouldn’t have it any other way.

***

Lucy wonders around the yard making sure everything was in place. There were a few people here already but she felt like nothing was ready. She felt like Genny and Tim had just started setting up and then people started showing up.

“Luce.” She feels a tug on her arm and then she’s face to face with Tim. “You need to relax. You’re here to enjoy not to stress.” 

“I know but—”

“Lucy. This is your baby shower.” Tim says. “Genny planned it. Go around and talk to people.” 

“You were helping set up.” She argues but she knows it’s weak. Tim rolls his eyes and leans in to kiss her.

“Go have fun baby.” He says. “You’re the mom to be.” Lucy blows out a breath and then nods her head. 

She was the mom to be and Tim was the dad to be. They were the parents to be. She could relax. She could enjoy this.

This was for her baby girl. She looks around the yard and grins. Genny really did a good job with decorations. 

It was on theme with The New Rookie but it was also girly and pink. Exactly what she wanted.

“This is a perfect party.” Angela says coming up next to her. “My goddaughter deserves the best.” 

“Your what?” Lucy asks raising her eyebrows although she already knows what she is going to say next. Tim and her had this discussion before they even knew they were having a girl. Angela would be their kids godmother.

No matter what.

“My goddaughter.” Angela says grinning. “I am the only choice.” 

“Talk to Tim.” Lucy says smiling at her and walking away but not before looking over her shoulder. Tim is watching her leaning against the bar counter, he has a glass of rum in his hand but he straightens up as Angela approaches him. 

Everything was going to be just fine. She couldn’t wait for them to be parents to be. 

***

“We got a lot of stuff today.” Tim says staring at the pile of stuff in front of him. “She’s going to have enough clothes for a few years.” Lucy laughs and picks up a tiny outfit from the pile. 

“Look at this.” Lucy says. “It’s so tiny. I can’t believe she’s going to be this small.” Tim hums softly and takes the outfit from her. 

“I can’t believe I’m just a few months she’s going to be here and wearing this.” Tim says. He looks over at Lucy who is smiling softly. He thought he was prepared and then they had a baby shower and he realizes how real it was. 

“Me neither.” She says. “We’re going to be parents to be.”

“Yeah we are.” Tim says. “I can’t wait.” Lucy sighs softly and leans against Tim. She couldn’t believe how fast time was going it felt like they just got married and now they were about to have a baby.

“I love you. You know that right?” Tim asks softly pressing a kiss to the top of her head. She sighs quietly because she is unsure of a lot of things but she is never unsure of Tim’s love for her.  And she knows it’s just as strong for their daughter. 

“I know. I love you too. I can’t wait to see you be a dad.” She says. Tim hums softly and pulls her closer.

“I can’t wait to see you be a mom. Our little girl is the luckiest little girl.” He says. 

“I agree.” Lucy says looking up at him and she knows what ever comes their way—they will handle it together. They were partners, husband and wife, best friends and most of all—

Parents to be.

Notes:

Up next: Tim is worried about Lucy and begs her to take it easy.

Chapter 30: Take it easy

Summary:

Tim begs for Lucy to take it easy at work.

Notes:

This chapter was pre written for awhile lol. I also have 31-32 already written (mostly) and I’m currently working on chapter 33! I hope you are still enjoying this story!

[Take it easy, take it easy. Don't let the sound of your own wheels make you crazy.]

***

Tim watches Lucy shuffle around the desk holding a folder in her hands. She pauses a minute to talk to an officer. And then she moves on and shuffles out of the bullpen and out of sight.

“Why are you watching your wife from a distance?” A voice asks from behind him. Tim jumps a little and sees Angela staring at him.

“I think she’s pushing herself too hard.” Tim says. “She’s extra tired when she comes home and I know she’s pregnant and that is part of it but—”

“Have you talked to her?” Angela asks raising her eyebrows at him. 

“Yes but she will either hit me or threaten me with divorce.” Tim says shaking his head. “I think she has threatened me with divorce at least three times this month.”

Angela laughs a little and Tim looks around and sees Lucy coming back into the bullpen. “Look—she’s just going through some changes and she doesn’t mean it.”

“I know that.” Tim says. “I just wish I could help her in some way. Make it easier for her. I want her to take it easy.” 

“Just be there for her Tim.” Angela says gently but not unkindly. “She’s bringing your daughter into the world.” Tim smiles at the thought of their daughter. Their baby girl they will have in their arms in a few months.

“Hey.” Says another voice and Tim jumps again. He turns slightly to see Lucy standing behind him.

“Hi.” He says looking her up and down and then his eyes settle on her face. “How are you feeling?”

Lucy raises her eyebrows at him, and looks down at her growing bump. She’s six months pregnant now and he’s amazed how fast it’s going. “I’m feel fine. Why?” She asks. Tim shrugs his shoulders at her and she narrows her eyes.

“I just think—” He pauses and looks around to see Angela is still there and watching them. Wonderful. 

“What?”

“You need to slow down a little.” He says quickly. “Take it easy.” Lucy’s eyes narrow at him some more and if he doesn’t wrap this up quick he’s going to be sleeping on the couch.

“I’m pregnant Tim. She says. “Not helpless. You did this by the way.” Tim groans silently looking up at the ceiling.

“I never said you were helpless Luce or incapable of doing your job. I just don’t want you to overwork yourself okay? It’s okay to slow down a little.” He says. Lucy crosses her arms over her chest and looks at Angela who just shrugs.

“He’s not wrong Lucy.” Angela says. “You don’t have to do everything at once. Just take a breath.” 

Lucy opens her mouth to speak and then shuts it and walks off without another word. He watches her leave and then turns to Angela feeling a little helpless.

“See? She’s stubborn and I’m just trying to look out for her.” He says. “She just needs to take it easy and—”

“She’s fine.” Angela says. “She knows what her limits are Tim. Go and check on her but I think she will be okay.”

Tim nods and heads in the direction Lucy went but she’s nowhere to be seen. He’s just about to walk away when the bathroom door opens and Lucy emerges.

“Hey.” He says hurrying over to her and he doesn’t mean to sound so desperate but he can’t help it. Not when it’s Lucy and his baby girl involved. “You good? You just walked away and—”

“I had to go pee.” She grumbles. “Your daughter is sitting right on my bladder and—”

“Oh.” Tim says. “Okay.” Lucy rolls her eyes at him, and takes his hand leading him further into the hall.

“I’m okay.” Lucy says and then she chews on her bottom lip and looks around. “But I do think I need to slow it down a little. And I will. I just don’t want to stop working because—”

“I know baby.” He mutters. “I just worry about you.” Lucy smiles up at him and he feels a sense eps relief.

“I appreciate it Tim but I’m going to work until I can’t okay?” She says. Tim blows out a breath knowing he won’t be able to convince her yet but at least she was agreeing to slowing it down a little. 

“Can you do one thing for me?” He asks. 

“What?”

“Take it easy.” He says. “For me. For our daughter. Please.” Lucy studies him for a second and then finally nods.

“Okay.” She says and puts her hand on her belly and gives him a small smile. “For you. For her.”

“Thank you.” He says. “I love you.” Lucy studies him for a second before leaning up to give him a kiss on the cheek.

“I love you too.”

***

Tim gets the call that he was dreading when Lucy hit the third trimester. He knows she shouldn’t be out on the street as much and she probably knows it too but—

“We need a RA unit to our location. We have a sergeant down.” Comes a voice over the radio. Tim freezes and turns to look at the radio. He sees Miles out of the corner of his eyes looking tense.

“This is 7-A-100 what’s your location?” Tim asks calmly. He has a bad feeling at the pit of his stomach that he knows who it is. And they aren’t saying it over the radio for his sake. And maybe a little bit of his sanity. 

Anyone who knows Tim and Lucy knows they will go to hell and back for each other. 

The officer says a location over the radio and they sound a little nervous. “We don’t need backup sir—”

“Too bad.” Tim snaps and there is nothing stopping him from getting to Lucy. “What is the condition of the Sergeant?” There’s silence over the radio and Tim looks at Miles who looks like he wants to say something himself. Tim presses on the gas as they wait.

“She passed out after going after a suspect.” The officer says. Tim blows out a breath, and he knows his worst fear is coming true.

He told Lucy just this morning she needs to slow it down even more. Maybe stay at the desk for the time being. 

She had been a little off the last couple of days but she had told him she was just tired and just needed some rest. But Tim had a funny feeling it was more than that. There was something she wasn’t telling him. 

“Sir, you don’t know it’s—” Miles starts but Tim shoots him a look because he knows Lucy better than he knows himself. He knows she would go after a suspect even if she didn’t feel well enough to do it. 

“It’s her.” Tim says as they get closer to the scene. He sees the ambulance is already there and there are several cop cars blocking the street. “I know her and she wants to keep working until she can’t.” 

Miles just shakes his head as they Tim comes to a stop and he jumps out of the shop. He spots Lucy right away. She’s on a gurney with a towel on her head and blood pressure cuff on her arm. Tim approaches her slowly knowing she’s going to be happy to see him or not.

“Lucy.” He says when he finally gets to her side. She sits up a little the towel falling into her lap. “What happened?”

“I got a little too excited to get the suspect.” She says shaking her head. “And I passed out. I’m fine.” 

“Her blood pressure was high.” The paramedic says. Tim gives Lucy a look and shakes his head a little. “It’s nothing to be too concerned about. But you do need to take a breath once in awhile Sergeant Chen. Take it easy.” 

“The baby is okay?” Tim asks reaching to take Lucy’s hand. The paramedic nods and then looks at the blood pressure monitor.

“The baby is fine. I would go to the hospital to check to make sure everything is okay.” He says. “Your blood pressure is going back to normal.” 

Lucy nods and Tim thanks the paramedic before he’s leaning over to kiss her on the forehead. “Luce.” He says. Lucy pushes him away but it’s gentle and loving. 

“I know Tim.” She says. “I felt fine and then I didn’t and—” She shakes her head, her eyes filling with tears a little.

“I’m sorry. I thought I could do this but—” She trails off and Tim squeezes her hand gently. 

“I’m not one to tell you can’t do something Lucy.” He says. “I would never do that but when it comes to the health and safety of you and our baby.”

“I know.” Lucy says. “I know. I already made the decision to ride the desk until my maternity leave starts. I’m not going to put our daughter in danger because I want to keep working.”

Tim studies her closely. “Are you sure?” He asks trying not to sound too relieved. His blood pressure went up every time he saw Lucy leave the station recently. 

“It’s my decision.” She says. “And I realized I wasn’t being fair to you. You were just worried about me.” 

“I will always worry about you.” He says. “And now our baby girl.” Lucy hums softly looking thoughtful as she looks up at him.

“I love you.” She says. Tim bends down to press a kiss to her forehead. 

“I love you too. He says. “Now just take it easy okay?” Lucy nods and sits up even more. 

“I promise.” She says. Tim nods and gives her one last kiss before they are loading her up. 

“Thank you.” Tim says to the paramedic knowing they are taking her to the hospital to be safe. 

“Of course.” The paramedic says. Tim watches him go to the ambulance and get in and then it’s driving off.

“To the hospital sir?” Miles asks coming up next to him. Tim looks at him and then the disappearing ambulance. 

“Yes.” He says. “To the hospital.” He knows Lucy will be okay and their baby girl is okay. He just hopes Lucy takes this as a wake up call to take it easy.

For her sake and their daughter’s sake.

***

Tim gets to the hospital just after Lucy and he’s led to her bed. The nurse is already surrounding her and checking her. 

“You chased a suspect?” The nurse asks her. Tim moves over to Lucy’s side and grabs her hand but Lucy looks away from him.

“I didn’t really chase.” Lucy says. “I ran after and then—” She shakes her head and then looks at Tim who just leans down to press a kiss to her forehead.

“Lucy.” 

“It was stupid but it’s not like I can go very fast.” She says. The nurse looks at Tim who is still looking at Lucy in concern.

“Did you at least catch the suspect?” The nurse asks. Lucy cracks a smile and nods. 

“I did.” She says looking proud. “I think he was a little afraid of me.” Tim can’t help but laugh a little and he does feel proud despite everything.

“Well everything looks good.” The nurse says. “Your baby is very active. I think she liked the action.”

“That’s my girl.” Lucy says putting a hand on her belly. 

“She’s already giving us a run for our money.” Tim says softly looking up at his wife. He already knows his baby girl will be just as stubborn as her mama. And quite honestly he doesn’t mind. He’s going to love them both even harder. 

The nurse just smiles at them and then leaves the room. Lucy looks down at her hands and then back at Tim. 

“I’m sorry for worrying you.” She says. “I just thought I could do this until—but clearly not.” Tim sighs and pulls Lucy up into him. 

“I just want you to take it easy Lucy. Not because I don’t think you can’t do your job or anything like that. You are even more badass. But sometimes it’s okay to slow down and take a breath. This baby.” He puts his hand on her stomach. “And you are my entire world and I don’t know what I would do if something happened to you.” 

“I know.” Lucy says. “I’m on desk duty until my maternity leave starts. I promise.”

“Good.” He says and he feels relieved that she won’t be on the streets anymore. He keeps his hand on her stomach and he feels his daughter kick a little.

“Baby girl agrees.” Tim says. “Mama needs to take a break.” 

“Already teaming against me huh?” Lucy asks but she’s grinning. “Is she a daddy’s girl already?” 

“Of course.” He says. “Take it easy on your mama baby girl. She needs the rest.” Lucy stands on her toes to kiss him and he pulls back resting his forehead against hers. 

“You and this baby girl are my entire world Lucy.” Tim says. “I will spend everyday worrying about you even if I try not to.”

“I know that baby.” Lucy says softly. “And I’m sorry.” But Tim shakes his head, he knows Lucy didn’t mean any harm. 

“It’s okay.” He mutters. “Just take it easy from now on.” 

“Okay.” She says. “I will take it easy.” Tim smiles and he lets out a soft sigh.

Take it easy.

Take it easy. 

Take it easy. 

Notes:

Up next: The birth of their daughter but there are some complications.

Chapter 31: Let’s do this!

Summary:

The birth of their daughter but there are some complications.

Notes:

‼️this is a traumatic birth experience. Just a forewarning. It’s a heavy chapter! ‼️

[You and me. We’re in this together now None of them can stop us now We will make it through somehow]

***

Tim feels Lucy shift around in bed, she turns to one side and not seconds later she turns to the other.

He sighs softly and then rolls on his side, Lucy’s back is facing him but he gently tugs on her shoulder so she faces him.

She turns around again, and blinks at him slowly. “What?” She asks. She sounds tired, and she looks like she hadn’t slept in days. He couldn’t blame her, it was hot, she was nine months pregnant and just weeks away from giving birth. She had been restless before but this was something different. 

“Are you okay?” He asks gently. “You seem restless.” Lucy sighs running her hands down her face and then looking at him.

“I’m fine.” She mumbles.

“Lucy.” He says. She shakes her head at him, and reaches for the extra pillow and puts it over her face. Tim gently removes it and she scowls at him.

“I’m done being pregnant.” She says. “It’s the hottest part of summer, I can’t see my feet or do anything—I’m bored. I just want to meet our baby.” Tim hum sympathetically and pulls her closer even if her bump makes it a little harder.

“Me too Lucy.” He says softly rubbing his hand up and down her arm. “But we are so close to meeting her.” 

“I loved being pregnant.” She says. “Don’t get me wrong but I hate this part. Just waiting. I want her here.  You’re so lucky you get to be at work still.” Tim sighs a little, he is actually relieved Lucy is now at home and not at work but he hates that he can’t be with her. His leave doesn’t start for another few weeks and he’s always worrying she’s going to go into labor and he can’t get to her.

“Once she’s here you won’t be thinking of that.” Tim says leaning over to kiss her. “I know it’s hard sweetie but you can do this.”

Lucy sighs softly and Tim puts his hand on her belly where he feels his daughter give a small kick. And like Lucy he is impatient for her to come so he can meet her.

His baby girl.

His daughter.

Their daughter.

He knows once their baby girl is here— everything else will come together. 

Just like it always does.

“She can’t sleep either.” Lucy says quietly. Tim leans down and presses a kiss to her belly.

“Go easy on your mama baby girl. Let her sleep.” He whispers. “Do it for daddy.” 

“Daddy’s girl already huh?” Lucy asks. Tim looks up at her and she’s smiling. “Can’t say I blame her.” 

“I wouldn’t expect anything less. But I hope she looks like you.” He says. Lucy tilts her head at him.

“You do?” 

“Yes.” He says. “Absolutely.” Lucy hums softly and cuddles into Tim. And he feels at peace— he can’t wait for his baby girl to be here but just laying here with Lucy was all he needed right now.

***

Lucy shifts uncomfortably on the bed, of course she had to go into labor when Tim was at work and not answering his phone. 

“Come on.” She mutters as if it will will her husband into picking up. “Pick up the phone.” But it goes to voicemail again. She sighs impatiently and dials Miles’s number. He might not be a rookie anymore but he seemed to know where Tim was during the day.

“Lucy?” Miles says when he answers. “What’s wrong?” Lucy closes her eyes as another contraction hits. At least she hopes it’s that and not a Braxton hicks which she had been experiencing for weeks.

“Where is my husband?” She grits out. “And why isn’t he answering his damn phone.” There’s silence over the phone for a few seconds and Lucy shifts uncomfortably in the chair. She needs to get to the hospital and she would drive herself but Tim would probably lose it. And there’s no way she’s going to do this without her husband by her side. 

“He’s not answering his phone?” Miles asks. “He’s on patrol. I just talked to him. Hold on.” There’s a beep and then more silence and then Miles comes back on the line.

“I will get in touch with him.” He says. “Just hang tight.” Lucy doesn’t reply just closes her eyes and wonder what the hell was going on. Tim had been on call with her for weeks. He actually called her several times during the day. She loves him for it, she loves how worried and protective he was but she was fine. 

Up until now. 

And the one day she actually needs him to answer his phone. 

She just hopes Miles can get in touch with him or she’s going to lose it herself. 

***

Tim is getting into the shop when his radio goes off. “Sergeant Bradford?” It’s Miles. Tim frowns but picks the radio up. 

“Officer Penn? What do you need?” Tim asks. He reaches for his phone to do his daily check on Lucy but it’s not there. He looks around the shop and then in the floor but—

Fuck.

He left it at the station and—

“It’s your wife sir.” Miles says and Tim’s heart plummets to the ground. “She—I’m not sure what’s wrong but—” 

Tim is already pulling out to the street and racing towards the station. He feels a little nauseous, the one day he forgets his damn phone and—

“Officer Penn. I left my phone at the station. On Detective Lopez’s desk.” Tim says. “God damnit.” 

“Do you want me to call her?” Miles asks. “She sounded upset. And—” 

“I’m on my way.” Tim says and he’s not sure how he’s ever going to make this up to Lucy. “I’m almost there. Just meet when I park so I can call her.”

“Yes sir.” Miles says and Tim has no doubt he will be waiting for him.  Tim presses on the gas and he feels like he’s having an out of body experience. He just wants to get to Lucy as soon as possible.

He makes it to the station and Miles is waiting for him. He turns off the shop and Miles is pressing his phone into his hand before he can say anything. He presses her name and he hopes she answers. 

“Tim.” She says when she picks up. “What the hell—”

“I’m sorry baby.” He says. “I left my phone at the station. What’s going on?” Lucy doesn’t answer for a good while. Tim clutches his phone looking at Miles who looks like he’s ready to jump into action. 

“Lucy!” Tim says almost desperately. “Are you okay?” He has a feeling of unease rush over him. Lucy hadn’t been calling him often because when she did Tim would go into panic mode thinking she was in labor. She would text him instead so it didn’t alert him as much. The fact that she had called him willingly and was trying to get ahold of him. 

“I think I’m in labor.” Lucy says. Tim closes his eyes and then hopes out of the shop, he tosses his truck keys to Miles. 

“Follow me home.” He says sharply. Miles nods and he must know what’s going on because he walks away quickly.

“Lucy.” Tim says softly. “How long?” 

“I don’t know.” Lucy says. “It’s been going on all day and I was trying to call you.” Tim gets back in the shop and turns it on. 

He has to get to Lucy no matter what. 

“I’m on my way Luce.” Tim says gently. “Just take a deep breath. I’m on my way.” He braces himself thinking Lucy will snap at him but she doesn’t.

“Okay.” Lucy says. “I was going to drive myself but I knew you would have a cow so—”

“You know me so well.” Tim mutters and he shudders at the thought of Lucy driving herself to the hospital. He presses on the gas and he looks to see his truck behind him.

Good.

His only thought is getting to Lucy as fast as he can. They are going to meet their baby girl soon. They were going to be a family of three soon. Everything they had been prepping and planning for had come down to this.

And they were finally going to meet her. 

Tim makes it to the house in less than 25 minutes. He parks the shop haphazardly and gets out. He barely see Miles pull into the driveway because he’s so focused on getting inside to Lucy. 

“Lucy?” He calls when he gets inside. He sees the baby’s bag and their bags by the front door. Tim had insisted on doing it this way so they were ready. “Lucy? Where are you?” There’s no answer but Tim hurries back to the bedroom where he finds Lucy sitting on the edge of the bed with her head between her knees.

He hurries over and sits down next to her rubbing her back soothingly. “Luce,” He starts. She looks up and her face relaxes a little.

“Thank god.” She says. Tim gets up and bends down in front of her. Lucy lets her head drop into his chest and he pulls her up. 

“You’re still in your uniform.” She mutters.

“Didn’t have time to change.” Tim says and he realizes he left the station without a word to anyone.  Hopefully Miles would be able to explain. “I was kind of in a hurry.” 

“Change.” Lucy says. “I can’t move that fast anyway.” Tim hesitates but he knows he needs to. He sits Lucy back down and heads to the closet to pull out some clothes. He goes into the bathroom to change and then he’s pulling her up again and leading her out the door.

He pauses to grab the bags and then pulls her out the door. Miles is waiting by the truck and Tim tosses him the shop keys. 

“Uh good luck Sergeant Chen.” Miles says. Lucy barely looks up. 

“Thanks Miles. Thanks for answering my call.” She says. She looks up at Tim and he shakes his head a little.

“I’m sorry Luce.” He says. He helps her in and she lays her head back against the seat.

“Thank you Officer Penn.” Tim says. “Can you—”

“I got it sir.” Miles says. “Congratulations.” Tim nods and heads around the truck to get inside. He starts it and then looks over at Lucy who is watching him with a soft smile.

“What?” 

“We are having a baby.” She says. “We are about to meet our daughter.” Tim grins at her and leans over to kiss her.

“Let’s do this!” He says. “Let’s have this baby.” He reaches for Lucy’s hand and she slips it into his. 

Let’s do this! 

***

Lucy squirms uncomfortably on the bed, they had been here for two hours and she was all hooked up but she was only 4cm dilated. 

“I thought I would be farther along.” She says looking over at Tim who is in the chair watching the baby’s heart rate. 

“I know baby.” He says scooting forward and pushing some hair out of her face. “You’re doing so good.”

Lucy sighs softly, she knew this wasn’t going to be easy and maybe she was just impatient because she wanted to meet her baby girl.

Tim takes her hand and squeezes it gently. She watches as his eyes go back to the baby’s heart monitor.

“You keep looking at the heart monitor.” She says. “What—”

“It’s nothing.” Tim says and he pauses for a minute. “It keeps going down. Her heartbeat has been steady but—”

Lucy glances over too and he’s right. The baby’s heart rate goes up and then way down. Lucy takes a deep breath, and she feels a little shaky. 

“I don’t like that.” She says. “I don’t like that at all.” Tim stands up and presses a kiss to the top of her head.

“I’ll go get a nurse.” He says. “I will be right back.” Lucy watches her husband go and she’s thankful he has a clear mind right now because she sure doesn’t. 

“Come on baby girl.” She mutters. “Its going to be okay.” There’s a stretch of silence and then Tim comes back into the room with a nurse behind him. She studies the baby’s heart monitor and then Lucy’s.

“It looks like yours is pretty low too.” The nurse says. “Just breathe.” Lucy sucks in a breath and then lets it out.

Tim sits back down and grabs her hand again and squeezes it again. “We will keep an eye on it.” The nurse says. “Let me check you.” 

She checks Lucy and Lucy holds her breath hoping she has progressed a little. “6cm.” The nurse says. “You are moving along fine. Try and relax.” 

Lucy nods and closes her eyes and sucks in a breath. Relax. Relax. Relax.

The nurse leaves and Lucy closes her eyes again, they had a birth plan in place and it didn’t include their daughter’s heart rate being low. She just wants her baby here and healthy no matter what.

“It’s going up.” Tim says. “You are doing good Luce.” Lucy turns to face him and she wonders how she would have gotten through this without Tim.

“I love you.” She says. “I can’t wait to see you be a dad.” Tim smiles a little, and she squeezes his hand.

“I love you too Lucy.” He says. “And baby girl.” Lucy hums softly, and lays her head back on the pillow.

They would be meeting their daughter soon. And she couldn’t wait—she couldn’t wait to hold her and love on her. 

The nurse comes back in followed by Lucy’s doctor who looks at the heart monitor machine. There’s a concerned look on his face.

“She’s giving you a run for your money already huh?” He asks gently. Lucy chances a glance at the screen and sees her daughter’s heart rate is really high. 

“What’s going on?” Tim asks sounding worried. “Why—”

“It could be anything.” The doctor says. “It does look like she’s a little stressed out for whatever reason.” 

“What’s going to happen?” Lucy asks feeling shaking. Tim scoots closer and she breathes out a little from him just being close. 

“We are going to monitor you.” The doctor says. “But I think a c-section is going to be our best bet. We don’t want her to be in too much distress.” 

Lucy’s eyes fill with tears because this wasn’t how she thought it was going to go. 

“Is—she okay?” Lucy asks. “Is she going to be okay?” The doctor smiles at her but it does nothing to calm down Lucy’s nerves.

“As far as I can tell she is going to be healthy. Her heart is just giving us some concern right now.” He says. “I know you passed out from high blood pressure a few months ago.”

“Yes.” Lucy says. Tim squeezes her hand. Take it easy he had said and she went out and chased a suspect when she didn’t feel well in the first place. “Did I—”

“The baby was okay when you got checked out.” He tells her reassuringly. “The end of a pregnancy can be pretty stressful for you and the baby. We are going to do everything we can to make sure she’s okay.”

“Okay.” Lucy says. Tim looks at her and then the doctor and gives him a small nod. 

“We are going to monitor you for about another hour.” He says. “If her heart is still going up and down we are going to get you in for a c-section.”

“Okay.” Lucy mumbles. She doesn’t know what to do or say. She feels numb like she could have prevented this even if there wasn’t anything she could have done. 

“I will be back in a little bit to check on you.” The doctor says. Tim thanks him and it’s silent until he leaves the room.

“She has to be okay.” Lucy mutters. “What if—”

“Don’t go there.” Tim says his voice firm. “The doctor said she’s going to be okay. And besides she is strong like her mama.” Lucy wipes at the tears that threaten to leak out of her eyes. She shifts a little as a contraction hits and the heart monitor goes off a little. Lucy glances over at the baby’s heart monitor and sees it went down and then spiked back up.

“Breathe baby.” Tim mutters into her hair. “Just breathe. You got this.” Tim squeezes her hand, and she takes deep breaths.

She’s got this.

Her baby girl was going to be okay.

She’s got this.

***

“Something isn’t right.” Lucy mutters. Tim glances over at her, and she has her hand on her belly. He glances up at the heart monitor and sees the baby’s heart rate has gone dangerously high. 

The nurse comes in followed by the doctor and he knows what is going to happen. “Your baby is in distress.” The doctor says and the nurse is already getting Lucy ready to move. “We need to get her out.” Lucy doesn’t say a word just falls back on her pillows and Tim watches helplessly as the roll her away.

This wasn’t happening.

This wasn’t happening. 

This couldn’t be happening.

“You can come back in just a little bit.” The nurse says. Tim nods and follows them out and watches as they wheel her into the ER. 

He’s handed a gown and a hat, and then he’s led back to the OR. He sits by Lucy’s head feeling a little sick to his stomach. 

He knows this isn’t what Lucy had in mind. He knows this wasn’t her plan. “We are about to meet our daughter.” He whispers. She looks up at him, tears in her eyes. “Let’s do this!” 

“Let’s do this.” She mutters. Tim looks away from her as the doctor’s work on her. 

“She’s almost here Luce.” Tim says. “She’s almost here.” There’s silence except for the doctor’s talking and Lucy’s soft breathing next to him and then—

“She’s here.” Lucy’s doctor says but the baby is silent. 

“Is she okay?” Lucy asks. “Why isn’t she crying? Tim—” Tim turns silently and sees the nurses surrounding his daughter. He feels like the ground could crumble beneath him and swallow him up whole. 

“Why isn’t she crying?” Lucy asks almost desperately. Tim tears his eyes away and looks at Lucy who looks like she’s about to have a panic attack. 

“I don’t—” Tim starts but he’s interrupted by a loud echoing cry. “Thank god.” He looks at his wife who is sobbing silently. He bends down to kiss her, feeling relieved and panicked all at once. 

“She’s having trouble breathing.” A nurse says. “We are going to take her to the NICU.” He hears Lucy suck in a breath and his heart breaks she won’t even be able to hold their baby. 

“Can I see her?” Tim asks standing up and making his way over. His daughter is laid out, hiccuping a little. Her eyes are barely open and she looks like she is struggling to take a breath. But she’s absolutely beautiful. She is everything he dreamed of. 

“You can come see her soon.” The nurse reassures him. “She just needs to be monitored.” Tim nods and the nurse wheels his daughter away. 

“She’s perfect.” He mutters turning back to Lucy. “She’s perfect. You did so good baby.” Lucy is silent and Tim presses a kiss to her forehead and continues because he would do anything to make this right. 

“It’s going to be okay Luce. She’s going to be okay. She’s strong like her mama.” He says and then adds: “She’s going to be okay.” 

“I just want to see her.” Lucy mutters. “I just want to see her.” Tim heart breaks a little and all he can do is lean in and kiss her. 

***

Lucy is exhausted and in pain but as soon as she can she demands to see her daughter. She hates that she didn’t even see a glance of her before they took her away. Tim helps her in the wheelchair without argument and wheels her to the NICU.

There’s a nurse at her daughter’s station and she steps back so Lucy can get closer. She’s perfect and beautiful just like Tim had said. She was fast asleep with wires connected to her. Her little chest rose and fell with every breath she took.

“Do we have a name?” The nurse asks. “She’s just Baby girl Bradford right now.” Lucy tears her eyes away from her daughter to look up at her and then at Tim who is staring at her too.

“Cora Mei Chen- Bradford.” Lucy whispers. “Cora.” Tim looks at her with a soft smile and she knows she made the right choice. 

“It’s beautiful.” The nurse says. “She’s doing better already. She will probably be with you by tomorrow.” 

“Thank you.” Lucy says looking over at her daughter again. “She’s tough already.” The nurse smiles at her as Cora shifts slightly and opens one eye and then the other. Tim reaches for her hand and squeezes it. She’s glad she has Tim with her because she’s not sure she would survive it without her. 

“Hi baby.” Lucy whispers. “Mommy and daddy are here. You are perfect.” Lucy looks her baby girl up and down and sees the little sign they made for her.

Baby girl Bradford 

August 20th

4:36pm 

7lbs 4oz 21 inches long

“We did it.” Lucy whispers reaching in to stroke her baby girl’s tiny cheek. She’s looks up at Tim who smiles at her. 

“Do you want to hold her?” The nurse asks. Lucy nods eagerly, and she backs away a little. The nurse scoops her up and puts her in Lucy’s arms. The baby looks a little startled and then she looks up at Lucy and it’s like she just relaxes.

“Oh you are perfect.” Lucy mutters. She has darker hair like Lucy’s, her skin is tanned like hers but everything else is Tim. From her perfect lips to her nose. She’s a perfect mix of the two of them. She’s everything Lucy ever dreamed of.  “Mommy loves you so much Cora Mei.” She looks up at Tim who has tears in his eyes.

“Do you want to hold her?” She asks him but she knows the answer. Her husband looks like he’s about to snatch the baby from her. Tim nods and he goes to sit down in the chair, the nurse picks her up and carries her over to Tim. Lucy watches as Tim completely melts into the chair. He presses kisses to the top of her head. And rocks a little in the chair, Lucy wipes a tear away from her cheek as she watches them.

Her two favorite people—her husband who would do anything for her. And her baby girl who even though it has been a rough start she knows would be just fine. 

“Hey.” Tim looks up at her and gives her a smile. “We did it.” Lucy looks at Cora who is fast asleep in his arms. 

“Yeah.” Lucy mutters. “Now we get through the next few days and 18 years.” Tim gives her a big smile and presses a kiss to Cora’s forehead. The baby shifts a little but doesn’t wake, she seems perfectly content. 

And that’s all Lucy could ever want. That’s all she could ever need. 

Her husband.

Her daughter. 

“Let’s do this.” Tim says looking back down at their daughter. 

“Yeah. Let’s do this.” She says softly and she feels her spirit rise a little.

They have a daughter and new chapter of their lives to start. 

Let’s do this. 

Let’s do this. 

Notes:

Up next: Tim takes care of Lucy after the birth of their daughter. And he reassures her he is all in.

Chapter 32: I’m all in

Summary:

Tim takes care of Lucy after the birth and he’s all in.

Notes:

This is a light and fluffy chapter kind of the calm before the storm. The next chapter (chapter 33) is very heavy and angsty. I will add necessary tags and warnings but this is just a forewarning.

[This thing we’re doing here, you, me. I’m in. I am all in—Luke Danes]

***

“Tim?” Lucy says from the bed. Tim shoots up from the chair and makes his way over to her. 

“What’s wrong?” He asks bending down to press a kiss to her forehead. “What’s wrong do you need?”

“I need my baby.” Lucy mutters and Tim blows out a breath. Cora was still in the NICU and Lucy’s doctor wanted her to stay a few days longer to heal. It wasn’t easy not having their daughter next to them and having to go down to be able to see her. But Tim was doing his best to keep her spirits up.

“I know Luce.” Tim says softly. “She’s improving everyday. And the nurses love her. She’s a good baby.”

“I want to hold her.” Lucy says. “I just want my baby and I also have to pee.” Tim presses another kiss to her forehead. 

“We can see her today.” Tim says softly and then holds out his hand. “Let’s take care of you first.”

“You’re the best.” Lucy says as he helps her up. “Thank you.” Tim pauses and pulls her close—he wants her to know he’s all in. He all in to helping her and making sure she’s comfortable. He’s all in taking care of Cora in any way possible.

“I’m all in.” Tim tells her and they slowly move towards the bathroom. “In whatever way you need me baby. I’m all in.”

“I know.” Lucy says. “I just want to get my baby and go home.” Tim sighs and presses a kiss to the top of her head. This definitely wasn’t how he saw them spending the first few days after Cora was born. 

“I know sweetie.” He says. He lets go of Lucy as she makes her way inside the bathroom. She shuffles towards the toilet and sits down.

Tim watches her and then turns away when he hears the door open. He shuts the bathroom door and sees the nurse coming towards him.

“It looks like Miss Cora is going to be released from the NICU today.” She says. “Her oxygen levels have gone up and her heart rate is at a steady level.” 

“That’s great.” Tim says feeling relieved. The bathroom door opens and Lucy steps out. There’s a smile on her face and Tim can’t help but smile. 

“We can have her in here?” Lucy asks. The nurse nods and Tim pulls Lucy close to him. He knows this will be a little harder but they were going to be okay. 

They were going to be just fine. 

***

“Hi baby girl.” Tim coos at Cora who looks up at him with blue eyes. His eyes.  “Welcome to mommy and daddy’s room. I know the nurses were nice down there but we missed you.” He hears Lucy laugh behind him as he fastens her diaper on. She’s so tiny, so fragile he wants to be extra careful. 

“Do you want to eat?” He asks the baby who just blinks at him as if she’s confused. “Come on let’s go to mommy.” He scoops her up and brings her over to Lucy who takes her and lays her on her chest. This is the first time they are trying breastfeeding and Lucy was already worried she wouldn’t latch on. 

Cora looks up at her with tired eyes, Lucy pulls the gown down and the baby immediately latches on. Lucy breathes a sigh of relief that has Tim breathing a little easier too.

“See?” Tim says. “She knows her mommy.” Lucy looks up at him and then back down at Cora. 

“You were hungry huh baby?” She coos softly running her fingers through the baby’s soft hair. “You gave us quite a scare.” Tim bends down to give Lucy a kiss and then his daughter who doesn’t even seem to notice. She’s sucking happily, little tiny noises coming from her mouth. “Don’t ever do that again.”

Lucy laughs and Tim presses another kiss to Lucy’s forehead. “I don’t think that’s going to be possible.” She says. “We have a whole lifetime of scares ahead of us.” 

“I’m all in.” Tim says. “For everything that life throws at us. Even all the scares.” 

“Me too.” Lucy says. “Me too.”

***

“Tim!” Lucy calls. Tim appears from the bathroom and raises his eyebrows at her. He had just been washing up because Lucy was resting and Cora was resting. So he took the opportunity to clean up himself since he felt like he hadn’t in days. Lucy and Cora had been his number 1 priorities.

“Yes?” 

“I’m hungry.” Lucy says. Tim walks over to the bed and presses a kiss to her forehead. “Can you order me something?” 

“Of course.” Tim says picking up the menu and looking it over. “What are you in the mood for?” Lucy shrugs and plays with the blanket.

“I don’t know.” She says. “It’s the first time I have been actually hungry and—” Tim hums and looks down at the menu before he’s looking up at her.

“I got it babe.” He says. He pulls out his phone and turns away a little. He knows exactly what to order her.

Veggie burger with fries and extra pickles.

Her favorite.

He turns back around once the food is ordered and gives her a smile. “Food will be here in twenty five minutes.” He says. 

“You take good care of me.” She says. Tim steps closer and sits down on the bed and pulls her close.

“Always.” Tim says. “Like I said Lucy, I’m all in. And you are worth it. You both are.” He glances over at Cora still fast asleep.

“I love you.” She mutters. “Thank you for my veggie burger and fries.”

“How did you know that is what I ordered?” He asks. Lucy smiles at him and leans in to kiss him.

“I just know you so well.” She says. 

“I guess you do.” 

“Hey Tim?” Lucy asks. He glances at her and she looks away for a second before looking at him again.

“Yeah?” 

“I’m all in too.” She says without missing a beat. Tim smiles and cuddles down into her, grateful that she is okay. Grateful that she is here and most of all grateful that they are both all in.

***

“Good news Lucy.” Her doctor says coming into the room. “Cora is doing a lot better and has passed all her tests. You can go home today.” Lucy looks over at Tim who is rocking Cora in the chair.

“That’s great.” Lucy says shifting on the bed. She had about enough of the hospital. They had to stay not only because of Cora but because of Lucy. Her doctor wanted to make sure she was healed enough as well.

“I will get the nurse to get the release papers.” Her doctor says. “Congratulations.”

“Thank you.” Lucy says. Tim looks up and gives her a soft smile, she’s not even sure he was paying attention. 

The doctor leaves and Tim stands up still holding Cora in his arms. “Are you ready for this?” Tim asks. “Ready to bring her home and—”

“I’m all in.” Lucy says. “Are you?” Tim blinks at her and then looks down at Cora who is still sleeping in his arms. She has her first little outfit on, the one Lucy dreamed about putting on her after she was born. She had a tiny little bow in her hair and she looked completely at peace with the world. 

“Yes.” Tim says and he sits on the edge of the bed, Lucy stares at her daughter and then looks up at her husband completely in awe of him too. He had been taking care of her since the minute Cora was born and when she couldn’t go see her baby in the NICU because she was in so much pain. Tim would go and take pictures of her, and update her the best he could. He would help her go to the bathroom and shower. And ever since Cora got out of the NICU and moved to their room he would change her, and get up so she could feed her. 

He never complained—he never even argued. He just did it because that’s who he was. 

“You’re amazing you know that?” Lucy asks. Tim opens his mouth but she continues. “You are doing everything for me and Cora. I just appreciate you so much.” 

“You deserve to be taken care of Lucy. So does Cora.” He says. “And I will always take care of you baby. Always.”

“Good.” Lucy says and she settles back against the pillows. She knows she can count on Tim to take care of her and Cora. “I’m counting on it.”

Tim smiles and hands Cora to her, she takes her and the baby settles against her chest. This was perfect.

***

“Okay baby girl.” Tim says as he places Cora into her carrier. “We are going home and you are going to love it. So much better than this hospital.” 

Lucy laughs from the bed and he stands up to look at her. She slowly gets out of it and makes her way over to them. 

“You aren’t going to miss the room service or the nurses coming in every few hours?” She asks. She bends down but winced and stands back up.

“Be careful.” Tim says softly and he stands up too putting a hand on her back. “Please. You just had major surgery.”

“Four days ago.” Lucy says. Tim drops his hand and takes her face in his hands. 

“I don’t care if it’s four days, weeks or months.” He says his voice firm. “Please be careful.”

“I will.” She says. “As long as you take care of me.” 

“I’m all in.” He says. “Every single day and night Luce. I am all in.” Lucy smiles at him and then down at their daughter. 

All in. They were both all in.

***

“God my husband is hot. Don’t you think?” Lucy mutters as she watches Tim in front of her. He’s carrying Cora in the carrier and she’s behind him in a wheelchair. Tim is walking slowly and carefully as if he’s afraid something is going to jump out in front of him. But he looks so good doing it. 

“Excuse me?” The nurse asks amusement in her voice. Lucy glances up at her, and then turns away quickly her cheeks heating up.

“Uh. He looks good as a dad.” Lucy says. The nurse laughs but doesn’t say anything more as she continues to push Lucy down the hallway. Tim stops suddenly and turns to look at them eyebrows raised.

“What’s going on?” He asks. They are at the entrance now and Lucy carefully gets out of the wheelchair ignoring Tim’s protests. She shuffles over to Tim and lifts up the cover on the carrier. Cora is fast asleep unaware of the fact that she is finally going home. To the place where they were officially going to start their new chapter. 

“Baby.” Tim says leaning over to press a kiss to her head. “Don’t overwork yourself.” Lucy just shakes her head and gives him a hug. 

“I’m fine Tim. I just had major surgery, I had a baby. And I’m up walking. I’m fine.” She says. Tim gives her a sideways look as if he’s not quite sure but then he nods. 

“Okay.” He says. He takes her hand and leads her out the door where he has the truck waiting. “Let’s go home.” Lucy watches as he puts the carrier in the truck and makes sure it’s secure. They had practiced this before and he didn’t stop until he knew it was secure.

He checks Cora’s straps too and then leans down to give the baby a kiss before he’s stepping back and shutting the door.

“Are you still all in?” Lucy asks even though she knows the answer. “This is a big step for us. Bringing a baby home.” 

“I told you this before Luce.” Tim says opening the passenger door and helping her in. “I’m all in. I will always be all in.” 

“Good.” Lucy says settling back against the seat. “I’m all in too.” She sighs softly as Tim shuts the door and they might have their challenges but—they were both all in. And that’s all that mattered.

I’m all in.

I’m all in.

Notes:

Up next: Lucy suffers from postpartum depression but Tim tells her he will stand by her. No matter what.

Chapter 33: Stand by Me

Summary:

Lucy suffers from postpartum depression but Tim tells her he will stand by her no matter what.

Notes:

⚠️‼️CW: Lucy does suffer from postpartum depression, feeling of loneliness and disconnect from the baby. She has mastitis and she’s sad. There’s also an injury ⚠️‼️

I’m sorry this took so long I had to finish it and then I had to change something in it. This is the longest chapter (5k+). Please read the necessary tags as this is a very heavy chapter.

[So darlin', darlin', stand by me. Oh, stand by me.]

***

Tim doesn’t notice the changes in Lucy right away. He’s so focused on her and Cora and making sure they have everything they need. And really everything is fine for the first few weeks, they were both getting into the routine of having a newborn who constantly needs something. They were getting into the routine of learning Cora’s routine. 

Lucy seems to be healing good, and Cora is thriving despite all the problems she had at birth. She is healthy and gaining weight exactly as she should be. So Tim doesn’t think anything of it when Lucy starts to change. She starts to get lethargic even more so than normal. She stops eating and showering. He doesn’t realize that something is wrong until one day when she doesn’t get out of bed even when Cora is wailing. 

“Luce.” Tim says scooping Cora up and rocking her back and forth it trying to soothe her. She has been going through a sleep regression and neither of them had gotten a full 8 hours of sleep in weeks. “What’s wrong?” Lucy doesn’t answer, she just turns on her side and faces away from him.

Tim frowns but then he looks down at Cora who is slowly closing her eyes. He shakes his head a little and presses a kiss to the top of her head. 

“I think she’s hungry.” Tim says sitting on the edge of the bed ready to hand the baby over. “Maybe if she eats she will sleep a little more.” Lucy doesn’t answer for a good minute and then—

“I pumped and put it away.” She says and her voice sounds funny. Like she’s drained and she doesn’t want to talk. “Make her a bottle.” 

“You don’t want to nurse her?” Tim asks. Lucy shakes her head and finally turns over to face him. 

“No.” She says. “I’m not getting as much.” Tim frowns and continues to rock the baby. 

“I didn’t know that.” He says. Lucy usually got up with Cora to feed her at night, and Tim tried to stay awake the best he could. He had no idea she was having trouble nursing when it seemed to all be okay at first. 

“It hurts when she nurses.” She says. “I think—” She pauses and shakes her head, her cheeks flushing red.

“What?” 

“I think my body is failing me to do the most important thing. Feed my baby.” She says. “It was great. And then it wasn’t. And now I’m failing my own child.” 

“Baby, you aren’t failing her.” Tim says. “She’s perfectly healthy and she’s gaining weight.” 

Lucy is silent and she turns back around. Tim frowns and moves around the bed so he can look at her.

“Lucy.” He says. “What else is going on?” Lucy blinks up at him, and then her eyes go to Cora.

“I don’t know.” She admits. “I don’t feel right.” 

“You don’t feel well or—” Tim pauses. He had never see his wife like this, not even when Cora’s birth didn’t go the way she planned. 

“No. I mean maybe. But I don’t feel right. I don’t feel like myself.” She says. “I feel heavy. Sad. This should be the happiest time and—”

“Sweetheart. You had a baby four weeks ago. You are adjusting and you aren’t getting sleep.” Tim says although he has a feeling of unease that it’s more than just that. 

“I guess.” Lucy says and she finally sits up. “I just want to be able to provide for my baby and I can’t even do that.”

Tim takes a deep breath and joins her on the bed. Lucy curls up around him running a finger down Cora’s cheek. 

“We can call your doctor and see what’s going on.” Tim says softly. “I’m here for you baby. I’m going to stand by you.”

“Yeah? You’re going to stand by me?” She asks. Tim nods and looks down at his daughter and then back at his wife.

“Always.” He says. “Everyday. All day. I love you Lucy.” Lucy hums softly and he sighs. He’s not sure what is going on but he knows they can get through this together.

***

Lucy spikes a fever right before her doctor’s appointment. She lays in bed and Tim feels completely helpless. He calls her doctor, and they do a video call instead of having to go into the office.

“It’s like my milk completely stopped coming in.” Lucy says. Tim sits next to her, Cora is in her little bassinet fast asleep. “We had to start giving her formula.” Lucy’s doctor looks at her, a concerned look on his face.

“How do you feel?” He asks. Lucy looks over at Tim who gives her a slight nod, she needs to tell the doctor everything.

“Terrible. I have a fever, I’m tired. My breasts hurt. They are red and swollen and—” She trails off and ducks her head down a little. “It’s awful.”

“It sounds like you have mastitis.” Her doctor says. “I’m going to order you some antibiotics but in the meantime you need to get some rest and fluids. Put a warm compress there.”

“What about nursing?” Lucy asks and she sounds completely broken. Tim hates that she thinks she can’t provide for Cora when she’s doing the best she can. 

“It’s recommended you keep breastfeeding.” Her doctor says. “Or at least keep pumping.”

“Okay.” Lucy says dully. Tim rubs her back and she leans into his touch. 

“Anything else?” Her doctor asks kindly. “I know this is hard Lucy but you will get through this.”

“Okay.” Lucy says again turning away from the screen and looking at the wall. “There’s nothing else.” She presses end before he can say anything else and a silence fills the room.

“Luce.” Tim says softly. “Are you okay?” 

“I don’t know.” Lucy says honestly. She lays down and curls into herself. Tim can only lean down and give her a soft kiss. 

“I’m going to stand by you Luce.” He says softly but he feels helpless because he feels like no matter what he says it will never be good enough. “I’m going to stand by you.” 

***

Lucy’s behavior gets more concerning as the days go on. She takes the antibiotic and soon she’s able to pump a little bit. Tim thinks this will help her a little but it doesn’t. She withdraws from him, she withdraws from Cora. Tim doesn’t mind being the one to get up at night to feed and change her but it’s like Lucy doesn’t even move.

She doesn’t sleep either—he knows she just lies awake at night staring into space. She pushes him away any time he tries to get close. He tries his best to give her everything she needs and be makes her food but it always go untouched. 

He knows it’s going to be hard when he goes back to work and she’s home alone with the baby. The night before he goes back to work he sits down with her and tries to figure out what’s going on.

“Lucy.” He says gently. “I’m going back to work tomorrow. You will be home alone with the baby.” Lucy picks at her fingers and doesn’t look at him.

“I know.”

“Do you want me to stay home? I can go back another day.” He says. But Lucy shakes her head and looks up at him.

“No.” She says. “You have done enough. I will be fine.” You probably want to get away anyway.” 

That’s the last thing Tim wants. He wants to stay home with Lucy and Cora and make sure everything was okay. 

  But his leave is over and—

“I would stay with you and Cora forever if I needed to.” He says. Lucy snorts a little in disbelief and stands up completely avoiding him and walking over to the basinet.

“Really? You would stand by me even though I’m a mess?” Lucy asks him. Tim watches her closely as she leans down to press a kiss to Cora’s forehead. 

“You aren’t a mess Lucy. You had a baby six weeks ago. It was a traumatic birth. Our daughter was in the NICU.”

“I’m a mess.” Lucy says. “I thought this would be easy—just being home with Cora. Taking care of her but then I got mastitis and—”

“And you healed.” Tim reminds her. “Baby, that wasn’t your fault. You are a wonderful mom. You are giving Cora whatever she needs.”

“Am I?” Lucy asks. “It doesn’t feel like I am.” Tim sighs and walks over to her and gathers her in his arms. She is stiff and tense but he doesn’t let her push him away. 

Not this time.

He wants to show her that she is a wonderful mom and he would stand by her no matter what. 

“You are.” He says. He pulls back and cups her face in his hands. “There have been some bumps along the way but that doesn’t make you a bad mom. Cora loves you. I love you. And I know it feels like you are in the valley but you will get out of it.”

“Will I?” She asks. “It feels like I’m drowning Tim. But I know I have to keep my head above the water for her.” They both look down at Cora, who has her eyes open now. She has Tim’s eyes and it was one of the things that actually made Lucy smile. She told him she dreamed of a little girl with blue eyes like his. 

Their little Cora Mei. 

“You will rise above this Lucy.” Tim says pressing a kiss to her forehead again. “I will help you.” 

Lucy is silent for several minutes and then she finally gives him a half smile. 

“Okay.” She says and leans up to give him a kiss. “I love you.” Tim pulls her in close and gives her a hug. 

“I love you too.”

***

“Are you okay?” Tim turns around to see Angela looking at him. “It’s your first day back. Aren’t you excited?”

“I miss my daughter.” He says. It had been nice to be home with Cora these last six weeks and Lucy. And even though he was happy to be back in the action, he was worried about Lucy. She was still acting different. She had perked up a little after their talk last night but—

“I get it.” Angela says. “How is she doing?” Tim smiles and thinks of Cora this morning as he kissed her and Lucy goodbye.

“She’s great.” He says. “She’s growing and—she’s amazing.” 

“How is Lucy doing?” Angela asks. Tim sighs because that was a whole different story. He’s not even sure what to say.

“She’s fine.” He says but it sounds weak. “I’m worried about her. She isn’t herself.” 

“She’s six weeks postpartum.” Angela says. “She went through a lot of stuff and she’s probably still healing.”

“It’s more than that.” Tim says. “She doesn’t smile. She only interacts with Cora when she needs to. She just lays in bed all day and doesn’t talk.” 

Angela hums sympathetically, and gives his arm a squeeze. “Have you talked to her doctor?” She asks. “It sounds like she’s going through postpartum depression.” 

“Really?” Tim asks a feeling of dread setting in his stomach. “She’s depressed?”

“It’s just all the hormones and the stress Tim. She’s a new mom. She has all these feelings and I know the birth wasn’t the easiest.” Angela says. 

“It wasn’t.” He agrees. “Cora didn’t cry right away. She was in the NICU. I—” Just thinking of the whole situation and what Lucy must be going through makes him sick. 

“Talk to Lucy and then talk to her doctor Tim.” Angela says. Tim nods and watches as she walks off.

He would talk to Lucy later.

They would figure this out and he would stand by her.

No matter what.

***

Tim isn’t able to talk to Lucy after work. As soon as he gets home, he’s swept up into taking care of Cora to give Lucy a break. 

“How was she today?” Tim asks as he sits down with his daughter in his arms. Lucy shrugs and looks down at her lap.

“She’s a good baby.” She says. 

“She is.” Tim agrees. “When did she eat last?” Lucy shrugs her shoulders and picks at her skin. 

“A few hours ago I think.” She says. “I have a bottle ready for her.” 

“Okay.” Tim says standing up and heading towards the kitchen. He balances the baby in his arms as he grabs the bottle and then sets it in the warmer. “Listen Lucy. I am worried about you.” 

Lucy makes a noise from the couch and he assumes she is listening so he continues. “You aren’t yourself. You are always tired and withdrawn. It’s not—I know this hasn’t been easy. I know you feel like you are drowning a little.” He pauses and looks down at Cora who is looking up at him. “Just a minute baby. Daddy will have your bottle ready in a minute.” He looks back at the couch but he doesn’t see Lucy. He continues anyway, he wants to get this out. 

“I will stand by you no matter what Luce. I think we should go to the doctor and—” He makes his way over to the couch only to find Lucy fast asleep. He sighs softly and sits down next to her and gives Cora the bottle. He reaches over and pulls the blanket on top of her. 

“We will talk later okay Luce?” He says. “We will get through this.” There’s nothing but Cora sucking on her bottle and the heavy silence that fills the room is almost suffocating. 

He hates this. 

He just wants to make it better.

***

Tim taps the steering wheel nervously as he drives down the street. He looks at his phone and he’s itching to grab it. He doesn’t want to seem like the overbearing husband and call Lucy but he knows she’s not herself. He knows she’s been different and withdrawn and he should be at home with her. 

He almost called out today just to make sure she was okay. But he didn’t want to seem like he was hovering too much. 

“Sir are you okay?” Tim looks over to see Miles looking at him in concern. “You seem tense.”

“It’s—” Tim starts but a call interrupts him. Tim looks over at the radio instead, this was good he needed a call to distract him.

“7-A-100. We have a small house fire. There are two occupants. A woman and a infant. We need RA and backup.” 

“7-A-100 responding.” Miles says. “What’s the address?” The dispatcher rattles off an address and Tim’s entire body goes stiff when he hears it.

It was familiar. 

It was his address.

The woman and infant was Lucy and Cora.

“Dispatch are the occupants okay?” Tim barks as he steps on the gas. Miles looks at him and Tim sees that he realizes who it is too.

“We can’t get a hold of them.” The dispatcher says. “The woman called but—” Tim presses on the gas even harder. 

“Call my wife.” He barks at Miles who fumbles for his phone. “If she doesn’t pick up, keep calling.”

“Yes sir.” Miles says and he doesn’t even try to ask. He must know the severity of the situation. 

Tim feels like he’s going to be sick, he feels like the ground is opening underneath his feet and he’s going to fall to the abyss. 

Why was this happening? Why was there a house fire? 

“She’s not picking up sir.” Miles says. “I have tried five times. It goes straight to voicemail.” 

Fuck.

Tim goes even faster not caring that he’s breaking the law. He speeds past the stop sigh before his house and pulls up in front of it. He puts it in park and is out before Miles can say anything. The ambulances are already there na she sees a paramedic with Cora. He runs over completely out of breath and takes her from him.

“Sir—”

“I’m her father.” He snaps. He looks down at the baby. She has tear streaks down her cheeks and she smells a little like smoke but she looks fine otherwise.

Thank god. 

“She’s okay. We checked her out but she should be double checked. No burns and she was far enough away to not inhale the smoke.” The paramedic tells him. “Your wife got most of it.” Tim turns around and sees Lucy on a gurney. Her arm is already wrapped and she has her eyes closed. 

“Officer Penn!” Tim call out. Miles is by his side in a few seconds looking down at Cora and then at Tim.

“Yes sir?”

“Have you ever held a baby before?” Tim asks. Miles gapes at him a little, and normally Tim wouldn’t trust anyone with Cora. There were only a few people that he trusted to leave his baby girl with but—

“Um—” Miles says. “No—” Tim doesn’t hear him though, he puts Cora in his arms and then steps back giving him a stern look.

“I am going to call my sister to come get her. If one hair on her head is harmed—” 

“Don’t worry sir. I got her.” Miles says. Tim gives him a look and then hurries over to Lucy.

Lucy opens her eyes as he approaches but then turns away. “Lucy,” Tim says a little breathless. “What the hell happened?”

“I was trying to make something.” Lucy says a tear leaking out of her eye. “Cora was asleep and then she woke up. I went to get her and it just caught fire.” Tim stares at her, and then leans down to press a kiss to her forehead.

“You got burned.” He says softly. Lucy nods and a few more tears run down her face. 

“I was trying to protect Cora and it just—” she says. Tim wipes away the tears and gives her another kiss.

“I heard the call on the radio.” He says. “When they said our address.” 

“I’m sorry.” Lucy says her voice shaking. “I almost harmed our daughter. I almost caught our house on fire. I’m sorry.”

“Baby—”

“If something happened to Cora. It would have been my fault because I was careless.” Lucy says softly.  She pauses looking around a panicked look on her face. “Where is Cora? They took her—”

“Miles has her.” Tim says softly. “I’m going to call Genny to pick her up but she’s fine Lucy. She’s going to get checked at the hospital just in case.” 

“They just took her.” Lucy says. “Like when she was born and I didn’t even get to see her. They just took her.” 

Tim can’t do anything but pull her close and then he motions Miles to come over. Cora is fast asleep in his arms clearly tired from all the commotion. 

“Sergeant Chen.” Miles says. “Are you okay?” Lucy doesn’t answer and Tim looks at him giving him a short nod.

“My sister will come and get her.”  he tells Miles. “Until then this is the most important assignment you will ever have.”

“Yes sir.” Miles says. “She’s a good baby.” Lucy makes a noise and Tim just looks down at her

“Is the house clear?” Tim asks Miles. He nods and Tim looks towards his house. 

“The fire was mostly in the kitchen. Little damage.” He says. “They cleared it out.” 

“Good.” Tim says. “Go wait inside. Her diaper bag is by the door. It has everything in it so you don’t have to worry about that.”

Miles nods and he turns his attention to Lucy. “We have to get you to the hospital.” He says glancing at her arm. Lucy is silent and looks away from him. There’s a minute of silence and then—

“You are still going to stand by me?” She asks her voice shaky. “I put our daughter in danger—”

“You protected our daughter.” Tim says firmly. The paramedic comes over and Tim reluctantly steps aside.

“We need to get her to the hospital sir. Are you riding with us?” He asks. Tim nods and climbs up into the ambulance. 

“But she was in danger because of me.” Lucy says. “I just lost track—” Tim just grabs her hand and squeezes it.

“She’s safe.” He says. “Genny will come and get her and bring her to the hospital. Okay? The paramedics want her to be double checked since she’s so young.”

“Okay.” 

Tim wants to say something else but he doesn’t—instead he takes out of his phone and calls his sister. He explains what is going on and she tells him she would pick Cora up as soon as possible. 

“I’m sorry Tim.” Lucy mutters. “I understand if you want to—” Tim knows what she is about to say and he doesn’t want to hear it.

“Stop.” He says. “You have nothing to be sorry for Lucy. You made a mistake.”

“The kitchen is damaged.” She says. “I—”

“I can fix it.” He says. “Stuff can be replaced. You and Cora cannot be replaced.” 

“You are too good to me.” She mutters. Tim lifts her hand up and presses a kiss in the middle. 

“You’re important.” Tim says. “And I love you. And I will stand by you.” 

“You will stand by me.” She mutters. “Promise?” Tim nods because he knows that’s a promise he can keep.

“Promise.” He says. “I promise Luce.”

***

Genny gets to the hospital a little bit after they take Lucy back to clean her burn. Tim is in the waiting room and jumps up when he sees his sister walk through the door. She has Cora in the carrier and the diaper bag on her back.

“I forgot how much stuff you needed when you have a baby.” Genny says. Tim just bends down and gets Cora out of the carrier. 

“Is Lucy okay?” Genny asks. “Your rookie didn’t say much.” Tim rolls his eyes as he bounces the baby a little.

“She’s hanging in there.” He says. “I don’t know if she’s okay.” Genny gives Tim a knowing look as he walks up to one of the nurses. 

“My wife is getting treated for a burn.” He says. “I just want to make sure my daughter is okay. She was—”

“We got her.” The nurse says taking Cora from him. Tim follows her back and watches as they lay her down. Cora fusses a little but then quiets down when Tim comes to stand next to her.

The nurse gives her a once over, checks her heart and lungs. “She’s breathing fine.” The nurse says. “She doesn’t have a mark on her. I think she’s okay.” 

“Thank god.” Tim says breathing out a sigh of relief. The nurse moves aside so he can scoop the baby up. “Your mama is going to be relieved to hear that.” 

Tim makes his way back to the waiting room where Genny is. She stands up when she sees him a concerned look on her face.

“She’s fine.” Tim says. “But Lucy—”

“I got her Tim.” Genny says taking the carrier from him. “Just be with Lucy. I will take care of Cora.”

“Thanks.” He says quietly looking down at his daughter. He’s not sure what he would do if something happened to her and Lucy. They were what kept his world spinning even if it was a little off track these days.

“Of course.” Genny says. “Call me if you need anything.” Tim nods and watches her leave. This wasn’t ideal, but he knows they will get through this.

He will stand by Lucy no matter what.

***

“That’s quite a burn you got there Lucy.” Her doctor says as he examines the burn. It’s not too bad and they had already cleaned it up. “How do you feel?”

“It doesn’t hurt.” She says. “It’s a little—” But her doctor shakes his head, he glances at Tim and then back at Lucy.

“I mean how do you feel? Physically, emotionally. You have been through a lot.” He says. “You had an emergency c-section. You had mastitis. You have six week old.” Lucy swallows and Tim can tell she’s thinking.

“I’m fine.” She says. “This was an accident.” She motions to the burn and Tim’s heart clenches a little.

It could have been so much worse. 

“Of course.” He doctor says sitting down in front of her. “But like I said. You have been through a lot and your body has been through a lot. Are you eating? Are you getting enough sleep?”

Lucy gives him a look, and he laughs. “Other than having a newborn.” He says. “You have Tim to—”

“Tim went back to work.” Lucy says and Tim hears the words laced with bitterness. “I’m on my own.” Tim frowns a little, they had discussed him going back to work and she said she was fine with it. 

“Okay.” The doctor says. “You still haven’t answered my question Lucy. Are you just saying you are fine to make this go away or are you actually fine?”

There’s a long silence and Lucy looks down at her legs. “I feel like I’m drowning 24/7.” She admits. Tim’s heart breaks a little and he steps closer to her. “I’m tired. My mood changes constantly and I want to be happy because I have a baby and a husband who takes care of me but it’s just whatever I do.”

“Your hormones are all over the place.” Her doctor says. “It takes a minute for your body to readjust. You just had a baby. She’s what six weeks?”

“And a few days.” Lucy says. “I try to snap out of it but I can’t—”

“You are six weeks postpartum Lucy. It’s okay to feel all these things.” He says gently. “I think you have postpartum depression.”

Lucy swallows hard and Tim grabs her hand. “What do I do about it?” Lucy asks. “I want to be able to enjoy this time with my baby.” 

“There are a few options.” He says. “Medication and therapy are two I recommend. I would start with therapy and go from there.”

“Okay.” Lucy mutters. Tim squeezes her hand letting her know he’s still there. “Thank you.”

“Of course. I will set you up with a therapist who specializes in this. You are doing good Lucy.” He doctor says. 

Tim nods at him, and he leaves the room. It quiet for a few minutes before Lucy is lifting her head to look at him.

“You still want to be with me? I have postpartum depression—” She trails off when Tim leans in close. 

“I love you so much Lucy. Nothing will ever make me stop loving you. You are amazing partner, friend and mom.” He pauses and wipes a tear from her face. “This is just a bump in the road. We will get through it.”

“Right.” Lucy mutters. “You will stand by me.” Tim takes a deep breath and he knows they have a long road in front of them.

“Always.” He says. “Always.” 

***

Tim waits in the waiting room in the therapist office. Cora is in his arms fast asleep, she now has a thing where she fusses if someone isn’t holding her. She loves being on Tim or Lucy’s chest. It’s like she knows that’s her safe place and she can sleep there and not be disturbed.

Tim sighs softly shifting the baby in his arms, this was Lucy’s first therapy session and even if she told him he didn’t have to come he wanted to.

He doesn’t know what they are talking about and he doesn’t know if she will tell him but he just wants her to know she has support.

His support.

After they came home from the hospital after the fire—Lucy shut down again. She saw the damage in the kitchen and even through it wasn’t much. She still felt guilty and just went silent, Tim had Nolan come over to help him fix the counters and the ceiling. And when that was going on, Lucy retreated to the bedroom and didn’t come out until Nolan was gone.

It was hard—and she told him many times she felt like she was drowning. She felt like she had to be that perfect mother. The perfect wife and she messed up everything. 

But Tim stood by her, told her he wasn’t going to leave and in fact this made him love her more because she was so strong.

And she would get through this.

“Mr. Bradford?” A voice from the doorway asks. Tim glances up and sees the woman who had introduced herself as Lucy’s therapist earlier. “Can you come inside for just a minute?” Tim frowns but stands up and follows the woman into the room. Lucy is sitting on the sofa looking down at her lap.

Tim sits down next to her and she looks up at him giving him a weak smile. “Hi.” He says softly. 

“Hi.”

“I just wanted to get to know you both a little better.” The therapist says. “I’m Dr. Lowe.” Tim nods but doesn’t say anything. 

“Lucy says you have been nothing but supportive.” Dr. Lowe says. “I’m glad she has that support.”

“Of course.” Tim says he shifts Cora in his arms. “She deserves it.” Dr. Lowe nods and leans forward.

“I know this is new to both of you. I know you both have been through a lot and adding this stress on top of everything is not ideal.” She says. 

“It’s not.” Lucy agrees. “I just wanted to feel like myself again and enjoy my baby. But—”

“It’s okay Lucy. It’s okay to feel things.” Dr. Lowe says gently. “Your body has been through a lot. But that’s the great thing about our bodies is we were meant for this. We were designed to have babies and grow them. It might not always go as planned and your body is just taking a little more time to get back to normal.” 

“When will that happen?” Lucy asks and she sounds close to tears. “I feel like I’m letting Tim and my daughter down. I’m not being the mom and wife—”

“You’re more than just that Lucy.” Dr. Lowe says. “You are a human being. You are your own person. You are sergeant and a leader. You fell in love and you had a baby and it went a little sideways. It’s not always going to be linear.”

Tim watches as Lucy’s shoulders fall a little and then she starts sobbing. He moves closer to her and she falls into him.

“You need to feel Lucy. You need to let it out. You don’t always need to be this picture perfect person because you think you need to be.” Dr. Lowe says

“It’s so hard. I feel—” She pauses. “I feel helpless.” Dr. Lowe nods and turns to Tim. 

“I know you two have been through a lot even before the baby.” She says.

“We—” He pauses looking at Lucy. “We had a few rough patches. I went to therapy to better myself for Lucy and myself. We aren’t perfect but we always make it through.” He feels Lucy shift next to him and he wonders what is going through her mind. 

“That’s good.” Dr. Lowe says. “I have no doubt you will make it through this.” 

There’s a long silence and then Cora starts to fuss. Her cries get loud as Tim stands up and heads out of them room. 

“She’s hungry.” Lucy tells him. “That’s her hungry cry.” Tim looks back and gives her a smile. 

“I got it baby.” He says. “I will see you in a little bit.” Lucy nods and he steps out closing the door behind him. 

Tim sits down and pulls out Cora’s bottle. He smiles down at her and gives her the bottle. The baby makes a happy noise and sucks happily. 

Lucy comes out twenty minutes later and Cora is passed out in Tim’s arms. Tim stands up and puts the baby in the carrier and then steps towards Lucy.

“Hi.” He says. “How do you feel?” Lucy shrugs and it’s only been one session. 

“How am I suppose to feel?” She asks. Tim just pulls her into his arms rocking her a little. 

“It’s a step in the right direction Luce.” He says softly. “It’s going to be okay. And I’m right here.”

“You’re going to stand by me?” Lucy asks softly. “Right?” Tim pulls back so he can cup her face.

“Yes.” He says. “It’s you and me and Cora. Always.” I will always stand by you.”  Lucy cracks a bit of a smile and Tim does too. 

“I love and appreciate you so much Tim. More than you will ever know.” She says. “You have stood by me—”

“Because you are worth it. Cora is worth it. And this is just a bump in the road baby. We will get through it.”

Lucy nods and for the first time in a long time she looks hopeful, and somewhat happy. They would get through this.

He would stand by her when she was falling down like she would for him. 

Stand by me.

Stand by me. 

Notes:

Up next: Tim and Lucy introduce their little girl and talk about her.

Chapter 34: Our little girl

Summary:

Tim and Lucy introduce their little girl and admire her.

Notes:

A little bit of a lighter chapter after last chapter 😭😭. I hope you enjoy!

[Go on, take on this whole world But to me, you know you'll always be. My little girl]

***

Cora Mei Chen-Bradford 

Born: August 20th at 4:36pm 

7lbs 4oz 21 inches long 

Parents Tim and Lucy Bradford would like to thank everyone who has sent and been supportive on welcoming their little girl into the world.

***

“You know maybe I’m bias.” Lucy says staring down at Cora who was fast asleep after screaming for thirty minutes. “She’s pretty perfect.” Tim laughs and comes up behind her. She feels his lips on the back of her neck, and his arms around her waist.

“Even after all that screaming and all she wanted was us to hold her?” Tim asks. Lucy shrugs her shoulders. They were still in the routine of figuring this all out. They were figuring out her cries, her movements and when she should or should not be picked up. They were figuring out how to handle the blowouts that seemed to happen at the worst times. They weren’t perfect but Lucy knows no one expected them to be. 

“Yes.” Lucy says. “Even then.” Tim presses another kiss to the her neck and then reaches in the bassinet. He carefully smoothes out Cora’s hair and then turns Lucy around in his arms.

“Then I’m bias too.” He says. “Because I agree. She is perfect.” 

***

“I can’t believe she’s 8 weeks old.” Angela says bouncing Cora in her arms. The baby is awake and probably confused at all the commotion. Lucy smiles a little and wipes some hair out of her face.

“Time goes by too fast.” She agrees. She looks over at Tim who is chatting with Grey, he looks relaxed and happy and that’s all she could ever want.

Lucy looks around the living room at all their friends and family. Lucy had come up with a little welcoming party for Cora and she insisted that they have it at their house. She had been going to therapy for about a month now and even though she wasn’t completely back to herself she felt better.

She felt like she could do the little things and she wanted to feel normal again so—

“How do you feel?” Angela asks. “I know it’s been hard.” Lucy nods and twists the bottle of water in her hands.

“It has been.” She says. “But I’m getting there. Little by little. I couldn’t have done with Tim.” Tim looks over at her and smiles as if he knows they are talking about him. He walks over to them and wraps Lucy in a hug.

“Hi.” He says softly pressing a kiss to the top of her head. “How do you feel.” 

“I’m good.” She says reassuringly. She has said that many times but this time it’s actually the truth. 

She is good. She is getting better.

“Good.” He says. He looks at Cora still in Angela’s arms. “And how’s my baby girl?” Cora makes a soft noise as if she recognizes Tim’s voice and Angela hands her over to him. 

“Hi baby girl.” He coos. He looks at Lucy, and a soft smile appears on his face. One he only has for her and Cora.

“Our little girl.” She mutters leaning into him. “She’s perfect.” Tim hums in agreement And Lucy can’t help the butterflies that fill her stomach. 

She can’t help but feel happy, because of Cora. Their little girl who changed everything for them. 

“I never thought I could love someone this much.” Tim says. He runs a finger down Cora’s cheek. “And then I met you and then we had her.”

“I know.” Lucy says because she loves Tim, she loves him more than anything. She loves the way he loves her. She loves the way he makes her feel safe and comfortable. She just loves him. But with Cora it was a different kind of love. It was an overwhelming, all consuming love that took over her. She would do anything for her daughter and she knows Tim would too. 

Tim nudged her a little and they walk over to the kitchen where it’s quiet. She pauses and turns to face him a little confused. 

“What?”

“You’re feeling okay?” He asks. “I know this is a lot but—”

“This was also my idea Tim.” She says softly. “I’m good baby.” Tim hum softly and presses a kiss to her temple.

“Okay.” He says. “I’m proud of you Lucy. You really are incredible.” Lucy just gives him a kiss and then leans down to give Cora ones

“Do you want me to take her? I can—” She starts but Tim shakes his head. 

“No. Go enjoy the party. I got her.” He says. Lucy nods and heads out of the kitchen but not before looking over shoulder.

“Take care of our little girl.” She says. Tim gives her a look but he’s smiling and she has no doubt Cora is in the best hands possible.

Our little girl.

Their little girl. 

***

“I think she looks like you.” Lucy says later that night. She is curled up into Tim’s side and Cora is next to her in her bassinet. “Everyone kept saying she looks like me but—”

“I think she’s a good mix of both of us.” Tim replies. “She has your nose, eye shape and cheeks.”

“But your blue eyes.” Lucy says. She glances over at Cora, and sighs happily. “Our little girl is pretty amazing isn’t she?”

“She’s the best.” Tim agrees. “I might be bias but she’s the prettiest one out there.”

“Definitely.” Lucy agrees. There’s a moment of silence and Lucy settles down into bed a little more. 

“I’m proud of you Luce.” Tim says suddenly breaking the silence. “I know these past few months haven’t been easy.” Lucy looks up at him, he has a soft smile on his face. 

“It hasn’t been easy.” She admits.  “But it would have been a lot harder without you.” She puts her hand over his heart where she feels the steady beats. She’s not sure she would have been able to get through everything without Tim.

 “We have each other and our little girl.” Tim says. Lucy hums softly and in this moment she is so grateful for her little life. And Tim and everything that came with it. 

***

Lucy awakes to Cora crying and she groans a little. She’s not sure when she last had a full night’s sleep without waking up every few hours. She didn’t mind it really—she wanted to take care of her daughter and make sure she was okay. 

But still.

“I got her.” She hears Tim mutter and before she can say anything he is rolling out of bed and scooping the baby up. She sits up and it’s dark but she can see Tim walking around the room rocking her back and forth it. She hears Cora whimper a little and then it dies down but Tim still walks back and forth it.

“I could have gotten her you know.” Lucy says watching him closely. Tim pauses and looks over at her. 

“I know.” Tim says. “But she’s our little girl. And you have been getting up with her every single time. Let me help.” Lucy’s heart clenches a little and she slides out of bed and heads over to him.

“What are you doing?” He asks. “She’s almost asleep. I got her.” Lucy just lays her head on his arm.

“Like you said she’s our little girl.” Lucy says softly. “I wouldn’t be able to sleep anyway.” 

Tim hums softly and presses a kiss to the top of her head. It doesn’t seem real that this is their life, and they have a baby girl. And they are both up making sure she is comfortable and happy.

“She’s asleep.” Lucy says looking down at Cora who despite screaming just minutes ago seemed perfectly content in Tim’s arms. 

Tim slowly walks back to the bed and puts Cora in her basinet and then makes his way back to Lucy.

“She’s perfect.” Lucy says softly. Tim tugs on her hand and they get back into bed. Tim tugs her close and presses a kiss to her head.

“She’s our little girl.” Tim says. “Half you. Half me. She’s amazing.” Lucy huffs out a laugh and turns to look at him but she doesn’t disagree. It had been a long road to get to where they were but it got them to each other and their little girl and that’s all that matters. 

***

“How’s that little girl of yours?” Grey asks when Lucy steps inside his office. Cora is strapped to her chest fast asleep. Lucy smiles down at her and then back at Grey. She had just come by to drop Tim is lunch off. She knows she didn’t have to do it but she also knows her husband would be over the moon to see her and Cora

“She’s good.” Lucy says. “I might be bias but she’s pretty perfect.” Grey laughs and stands up from behind his desk.

“And how are you doing?” He asks. Lucy sighs and shifts the bag of food from one hand to the other. She was doing better, Therapy was definitely working and Tim being by her side helped. A lot.

“I’m doing better.” She says. She rubs Cora’s back a little to keep the baby asleep. Grey hums softly and then his eyes go above her head.

“Don’t distract him too much.” He says. “I need at least one of my sergeants.” Lucy laughs and turns around to see Tim approaching. He has his eyes on her, and then they dart down to Cora.

“Hi.” He says bending down to kiss her. “What are you doing here?” She holds out the bag and gives him a soft smile.

“I brought you lunch. It was Cora’s idea.” She says. Tim raises his eyebrows but takes the bag and bends down to kiss the baby. 

“Well thank you baby girl.” He mutters. “I appreciate it.” Tim takes Lucy’s hand and leads her out of Grey’s office and then out of the station. They sit down at the tables and Lucy watches him.

“Remember when you brought me dinner at midnight?” She asks. “When I was on the night shift and now—”

“You are bringing me lunch with our little girl.” Tim finishes for her. “The times have changed.” Lucy hums softly and reaches over to grab a fry.

“We are married, we have a baby.” She says. “But one thing hasn’t changed.” Tim tilts his head at her.

“Yeah? And what’s that?” He asks but she knows he knows. Their love for each other hasn’t changed even after everything they had been through. 

“Our love for each other.” She says. “It hasn’t changed.” Tim stares at her for a few minutes and then shakes his head.

“I disagree.” He says. Lucy frowns at him a little. Her stomach dropping because surely—. He must realize because he leans across the table to take her hands and squeezes them reassuringly. “My love for you has changed. It has gotten even stronger. There is nobody else for me Lucy. Just you. And our little girl.” Lucy blinks at him willing the tears not to fall out of her eyes. She carefully lifts Cora out of the wrap and Tim takes her. She snuggles against his chest not even opening her eyes because she must know she is still safe.

“Well in that case.” Lucy says smiling. “I guess my love for you has changed too. It has gotten stronger for me too.” 

Tim hums softly and presses a kiss to Cora’s head. Lucy loves watching him as a dad. It was the most rewarding thing watching the man she loves be a father to their little girl. To be the man that he doubted sometimes but she knew he was. 

“I love you.” She tells him. He looks up briefly and then back down at Cora. “A lot.”

“I love you too.” He says. He reaches for his food but never takes his eyes off their daughter. “And you baby girl. You’re the best thing that has ever happened to your mom and I.” 

Lucy makes a soft noise because it’s true. Cora is by far the best thing in their life. And despite everything Lucy had been through. Despite the postpartum depression, despite not being able to breastfeed her anymore. 

She was the best thing to ever happen to them. 

“Our little girl.” She mutters. Tim squeezes her hands and she looks at him, so proud of her little life.

Thankful.

Blessed.

Amazed. 

Our little girl.

Notes:

Up next: Tim and Lucy spend some quality time together for the first time since Cora was born.

Chapter 35: Quality time together

Summary:

Tim and Lucy have some quality time together for the first time after Cora is born.

Notes:

This was suppose to be completely different. I was going to do all five love languages but it just wasn’t turning out the way I wanted it to. So I decided to do quality time and I liked how it turned out!

[The few hours I spend with you are worth the thousand hours I spend without you.]

***

“When did you and Lucy go on a date last?” Angela asks Tim as soon as he steps into the station. Tim freezes and looks at his friend. He’s barely awake, Lucy had been up all night with Cora who decided sleep was for the weak. They switched off since they both were going to work in the morning. 

They might as well be equally as tired. 

“I don’t know. Last year maybe?” Tim says yawning. “Our honeymoon? When we got pregnant with Cora?” 

“Okay—” Angela says holding up a hand. “I get it. You haven’t been on a date in a long time.” 

“You asked.” He grumbles. He looks around the station and sees Lucy slumping in the door. Her hair is crazy, he is 99% sure she didn’t bother putting makeup on and she has two different shoes on.

“Is she okay?” Angela asks concern written all over her face. “She has two different shoes on.” 

“Cora didn’t sleep last night. We took shifts.” Tim explains. “It gets better right?” Angela just watches as Lucy approaches. She immediately leans into Tim and he pulls her close. 

“You two need date night.” Angela says. “How about I take Cora this weekend and you two go on a date.”

“You do not want that little gremlin for the night.” Lucy says shaking her head. “Trust me.” 

“I have two kids Lucy.” Angela says pointedly. “I know how it is. And it does get better. Let me do this for you.”

“I don’t know.” Lucy says chewing on her bottom lip. “We have never been away from her. She’s three months—”

“She’s at daycare right?” Angela asks. “She will be fine. Jack and Emmy would love to have a baby in the house. And you two need a night away.” 

“I don’t think—”

“Yes.” They both say at the same time and then they give each other a look.

“You want to leave our baby?” Lucy asks. “You?”

“You don’t want to get a full nights sleep?” Tim asks raising his eyebrows. “No middle of the night feedings, no diaper changes, no almost falling into the toilet.” 

“One time Tim.” Lucy says rolling her eyes. “That—does sound nice.” 

“Just one night.” Angela says. “Cora will be fine.” Lucy sighs but nods her head. Tim can see she’s still hesitant but he knows this will be good. For the both of them.

“We need some quality time together.” He says. “Without the baby.”

“I know.” Lucy says smiling at him and then she looks over at Angela. “Don’t say we didn’t warn you. She’s a menace at night.” 

“I can handle it.” Angela reassures her. “You two get that quality time together and some rest.”

“We will try.”  Tim says and he really hopes that’s true. “We will try.”

***

“I can’t believe we are alone.” Lucy says looking around the restaurant. “Well I mean without Cora.” Tim hums softly and reaches for her hands and gives them a squeeze.

 “I know.” He says. He had gotten so used to Cora being right there next to them, it was like something was missing. 

“It’s nice.” Lucy says and she still looks exhausted but she looks more relaxed than before. “Getting out of the baby bubble.” Tim nods and gives her hands another squeeze before letting them go.

“I agree.” Tim says although he does miss their daughter. “It’s just the two of us.” 

“It’s quality time together.” She reminds him. Tim nods and gives her a smile. 

“We deserve this.” He says trying to sound confident like this was the right move for them. “We work hard.”

“And we don’t sleep.” Lucy reminds him. “Sleep is for the weak.” Tim huffs out a laugh and leans back in his seat. 

They did deserve this but— “I miss her.” Lucy says suddenly. “I’m so used to having attached to me.”

“I miss her too.” Tim says. “I know she hasn’t been sleeping but she’s cute.” 

Lucy’s smile widens and she pulls out her phone. Her Lock Screen is a picture of Cora and Tim. Tim is holding their daughter and she’s looking up at him. “Look what I got the other night.” Lucy says and she hands Tim her phone. It’s a video of Cora laying on the floor, she’s looking up with a small smile on her face. And the she starts laughing and it’s a beautiful sound. 

“God we made a good baby.” Tim says staring at the video and listening to the best sound in the world. “We did that.”

“Hell yeah we did.” Lucy says taking the phone back. “I love her so much. Even when she doesn’t sleep and she thinks everything is funny.” 

“I know.” Tim says and he’s wondering how Angela is doing with Cora. “She laughed at my face the other night or she had gas.” 

“Both?” Lucy asks she reaches forward to pick up her wine glass. “Look at us spending quality time together and we are talking about our baby.”

“I wouldn’t want to do it with anyone else.” Tim says. He picks up his own beer and takes a sip. “You’re worth it.”

“Ditto.” Lucy says. She holds out her wine glass. “To quality time together.” Tim smiles and hits his beer bottle with her glass.

“To quality time together.” 

***

“Hey.” Tim nudges Lucy a little and she makes a soft sound. “You fell asleep.” She shifts a little and then lifts her head from his shoulder. 

“I did?”

Tim huffs out a laugh, and nods his head. “Yeah. We were watching a movie and you fell asleep before it even started.” 

“Sorry.” Lucy mutters rubbing at her eyes. “Was it a good movie?” 

“I don’t know I fell asleep too.” He says. Lucy laughs and gives him a look before sitting all the way up. 

“Some date night huh?” She asks. “We both fell asleep.” Tim shakes his head a little, they did have an amazing dinner and then they decided to go home and just settle down for the night. They got some ice cream and decided to watch a movie and well—

“You needed the sleep Luce.” He mutters. “It’s been a great night so far.”

“You need your sleep too.” She says. “And I agree but any quality time spent with you is a good time.”

“Good.” Tim says. “Do you want to go to bed?” Lucy nods and she’s standing up before he can say anything more. She pulls him up and he takes over leading her to the bedroom. 

“It’s weird without Cora here huh? She would—” He pauses and looks over to see Lucy already in bed fast asleep. 

Of course. 

He smiles and covers her up and then gets in bed himself. It might not have been their typical date night but it was quality time together and that’s all that matters to him.

***

“How was she?” Lucy asks as she looks down at Cora who is wide awake and staring up at Lucy in her carrier. Tim has her bag on his back and the carrier in one hand. “If she kept you—”

“She slept all night.” Angela says grinning at them. “She was a perfect angel. I don’t know what you two were complaining about.”

Tim stares at Angela and then looks down at his daughter. “What do you mean she slept all night?” He asks. “Are you sure? You aren’t just hallucinating from no sleep?”

“She slept all night Tim.” Angela says still grinning. “She woke up at 6 and I gave her a bottle and changed her and then she went back to sleep.”

“You little menace.” Lucy says looking down at Cora who gives her a small smile. “Why do you sleep for others but not mommy and daddy?” 

Cora’s only response is a loud giggle and she kicks her feet a little. “How was your night?” Angela asks. 

“We slept all night too.” Tim replies looking over at Lucy. “I think that’s the first time in—”

“A long time.” Lucy says. “Thank you Angela we really appreciate it.” Angela nods and Tim starts to walk out the door.

“Anytime.” She says. “You guys deserve a good night’s sleep.” They say bye and walk out the door. Tim loads Cora in the truck and then turns to Lucy who just shakes her head.

“I can’t believe she slept all night long for Angela but won’t do it for us.” She says. “She’s trouble.”

“She’s three months old.” Tim points out. He steps closer to her and pulls her in. “And I think this just means she loves us and she doesn’t want us out of her sight.”

“Or to sleep.” Lucy grumbles. Tim laughs and presses a kiss to the top of her head.

“Even so.” He says. “We got quality time together and when she’s up all night we get quality time with her and that’s worth it.”

“True.” Lucy says. “She is worth it isn’t she?” Tim nods and gives her a kiss. Lucy is worth it. Cora is worth it. Their little family is worth it. 

Lucy opens up the truck passenger door but not before Tim is pulling her in for another kiss. “I love you Luce.” 

“Mmm.” Lucy hums softly. He kisses her again before she can say anything and he feels like he is on top of the world. 

He got quality time with the woman he loves, a full eight hours of sleep and now his baby girl is back with them. 

And that’s all he could ever want. Now and forever. With his girls. 

And some well deserved quality time together.

 

Notes:

Up next: Tim, Lucy and Cora and their little family. The next few months of Cora’s life.

Chapter 36: Our little family

Summary:

Tim and Lucy talk about and admire their little family.

Notes:

I am so sorry this took so long. I didn’t realize the last time I updated.

Anyway this is just a fluffy little chapter. It takes place when Cora is 4, 5 and 6 months old. The first section she’s 4 months, the second she’s 5 months and the third she’s 6 months.

Enjoy!

[Ohana means family. Family means nobody gets left behind or forgotten— Lilo and Stitch]

***

Tim wakes up to Cora crying but when he sits up he sees Lucy already has her. He watches as she sits back on down on the bed looking down at their daughter.

“Is she okay?” He asks still a little tired. Cora had gotten over her up all night phase but it still seemed like he was tired. He wasn’t sure if it was from working all day and then coming home and taking care of Cora or what. 

“She’s okay.” Lucy replies. “I think she’s a little hungry.” Tim hums softly and gets up so he can get out of bed.

“I’ll go make her a bottle.” He says. Lucy throws him a grateful look and he smiles back at her. They had gotten a routine down and even though it took a couple of months and a couple of tries to get it right—it was working for them. 

He was so proud of his little family and everything they had gone through. He was proud of Lucy for making it through despite everything. She went through a lot and even though she was still going to therapy she was getting better. 

He was proud of Cora—she was four months old now and she had been through a lot in her short four months. She was growing, and flourishing but most of all she was healthy. 

He was proud of everything they had accomplished and been through and they still managed to make it out alive. 

Tim goes to the kitchen and starts making Cora’s bottle. He never thought his house would be full of baby toys and products but he wouldn’t have it any other way.

He makes the bottle and then goes back to the bedroom where Lucy is still sitting with Cora. He hands her the bottle and she gives it to the baby who takes it eagerly.

“She was hungry.” He muses as he watches his daughter eat. Lucy looks up at him and the back down at the baby.

“She was huh.” Lucy says softly running a finger across the baby’s cheek. “Is that all you needed baby was just a bottle?” 

Cora blinks up at her and Tim can tell she’s already getting tired. Her eyes start to close and then she opens them again. “And she’s fighting sleep.” Tim grumbles. He knows this all too well, Cora would eat and then fight sleep for about twenty minutes before her body finally won and she would fall fast asleep.

“You know the routine.” Lucy says. “She will be asleep soon enough.” Tim nods and falls against the pillows ready to shut his eyes again.

“Hey.” He feels Lucy poke him and he opens one eye to look at her. “Are you really going back to sleep?”

“Yes.”

Lucy gives him an unimpressed look and shakes her head. “Why? You don’t want to hang out with me and Cora?” 

“Luce it’s—” He glances at the clock and then back at his wife and daughter. “It’s 2am.” 

“What are your dreams Tim? What do you inspire to be?” Lucy asks. She shifts Cora from her arms to her chest and starts patting her back. Tim takes the bottle and puts it aside.

“What?”

“Your dreams. You desires. What are they?” Lucy asks. Tim gives her a weird look and closes his eyes again.

“My dream is to go to sleep and my desire is to stay asleep.” Tim says. He feels Lucy poke him again and he groans before he’s sitting up and looking at her. 

“We are pretty lucky huh?” She asks. Tim relaxes a little and gives her a smile. “Our little family. Our little life.” 

“I am the luckiest man alive.” Tim says scooting closer to her. Cora is still fighting sleep, and he sees her looking at him. Her blue eyes wide as she stares at him. 

“I am so grateful for you.” Lucy says and she smiles as Tim carefully takes Cora from her and lays her on his chest. “You make this chaotic life so much easier. I love our little family.” 

“Me too.” Tim says and he looks down at Cora whose eyes are now slowly closing. “Me too.” 

***

“She is so cute.” Angela says looking down at Lucy’s phone. “She’s looking more like you everyday.” Lucy smiles and pulls the phone back to look at it herself. Cora was looking like her everyday much to Tim’s delight. He said he was happy she got Lucy’s features rather than his. Although Lucy disagreed, she would love if they had a mini Tim running around.

“She might look like me.” Lucy says. “But she is a total daddy’s girl. The other night I was trying to put her down for bed and she was fussing until he came in the room and she calmed down.” 

“There must be something about him.” Angela says. Lucy nods and looks around for her husband. She spots him right away walking towards them with a smile on his face. He might not show it but he was very proud their daughter was a daddy’s girl.

“I hear you have a daddy’s girl on your hands.” Angela says. Tim schools his face but Lucy can tell he’s happy.

“She loves her mom too.” Tim says shrugging. Lucy rolls her eyes a little and there were times Cora preferred her over Tim but the truth is she didn’t mind. She loves to watch Tim and Cora interact, she loves how Tim can go from being a hard ass at work to a softy at home for their daughter. She loves that he has a lot of pink, and tea parties in his future whether he likes it or not.

She loves their little family when they settle down for the night and it’s just them and no one else. 

“You guys are good parents.” Angela says. “Cora is a very lucky little girl.” Lucy smiles as she walks off and then turns to Tim.

“What are you thinking about?” He asks. She doesn’t answer right away, she just reaches out and squeezes his arm a little. 

“Our little family.” She says. “You, me and Cora. I know it’s too early to think about having another baby.”

“Cora is five months old Luce.”

“I know.” Lucy says. “But I’m just thinking about our future. And how our family will probably grow and it will just get better.”

“I agree.” Tim says. “You do want more kids right?” Lucy blows out a breath, she had always seen herself with at least two to three kids but after what happened with Cora and her postpartum depression.

“I’m not sure I’m ready to think about that yet.” She says truthfully. “I think yes I do want more kids but—”

“I get it Luce.” Tim says gently. “Our little family is perfect right now.” Lucy nods and blows out a breath. She was lucky to have Tim who was willing to compromise with her.

“How was she this morning at drop off?” Lucy asks him. They usually dropped her off together but Lucy had an appointment she needed to get to so Tim dropped her off.

“She was fine.” Tim says. “I kissed her goodbye and didn’t look back.” Lucy snorts a little, and smiles at him.

“So it was harder for you than for her.” She says

“Yes.” He replies. “So much harder.” Lucy laughs and Tim pulls out his phone. She peers over his shoulder and sees a new picture of Cora. She’s in her car seat and grinning at Tim.

“That’s new.” She says pointing at the picture. “She’s so cute.” 

“I took it this morning.” He says. “Right before she had a blow out.” Lucy winces but then she’s smiling again.

“She is still pretty damn cute.” She says. Tim rolls his eyes but she knows he agrees with her. 

“She is pretty damn cute huh?” Tim asks. He scrolls to another picture and she sees it’s a selfie she took of all three of them. They are both looking at Cora like she hung the stars and the moon for them. Her little family. Their little family was pretty damn cute too.

“Our little family is cute.” Lucy muses. Tim laughs as he puts away his phone. It was time to get to work, and do their jobs but it didn’t matter. At the end of the day Lucy would go home to their daughter and to Tim. 

And that’s all that really mattered.

***

“I need to talk to you about something.” Lucy says coming into their bedroom. Tim is laying on the bed with Cora fast asleep on his chest. And he looks like he was ready to pass out too. 

“Hmmm?” Tim hums as Lucy climbs up on the bed. “What’s that?” 

“Cora is six months old.” She says and she can’t even believe it. Her baby girl is half a year old. She’s not sure why time is going by so fast but she wants it to slow down.

“She is.” Tim agrees. “She’s growing up too fast.” 

“I agree.” Lucy says chewing on her bottom lip. “But I think it’s time she sleeps in her own room.”

“Why?”

“Because she needs to learn to sleep on her own.” Lucy says calmly. She knew this would be a difficult conversation to have with Tim. “And she can’t sleep with us forever.”

“But she’s so little.” Tim protests rubbing the baby’s back. “She’s only six months.” 

“Two minutes ago you were saying she was growing up too fast.” Lucy points out. “Look we can do it one step at a time. We will have the baby monitor up and we will know when she needs us. Let’s just try it for one night babe.” 

“I don’t know.” Tim says. “What if she needs us?”

“She is very good at letting us know what she needs.” Lucy says. “We can’t have her in here forever.”

Tim blows out a breath and she can see he’s still struggling. “Okay one night.” He says. “One night.” 

Lucy rolls her eyes at him and then leans over to give him a kiss. “You’re a good daddy.” She mutters. 

“I just love her so much.” Tim mutters. “I like when she’s close.” 

“Me too.” Lucy says softly running her fingers through his hair. “But it will be nice to have our room back and we can see her on the baby monitor.” 

“I guess.” He mumbles. “Can we do it tomorrow night? I’m not ready to let her go yet.”

“Sure babe.” Lucy says softly. “We can start tomorrow night.”  She hears him make a soft noise and she smiles.

“Our little family will sleep in the same room for one more night.” He says softly. Lucy smiles to herself.

She really loves her little family. 

***

“I’m not ready for this.” Tim says as he stares down at Cora in her crib. “Do you think she’s ready?”

“Baby, she’s sleeping in her own room.” Lucy says looking amused. “Not going off to college.” 

“I know but still.” Tim says. He looks down at his daughter and she’s already asleep. She looks so peaceful. 

“Look she’s already asleep.” Lucy says tugging on his arm. He reluctantly follows her, she pulls him all the way to their bedroom. Cora’s bassinet is still set up along with the makeshift changing table they made for the middle of the night changes. 

“Look.” Lucy says pointing at the baby monitor. Tim had made sure to set it up before they put her down for the night. “She’s still asleep. She doesn’t even know we aren’t in there.” 

“You must think I’m crazy.” Tim says. “Being so—” He trails off a little. 

“No you aren’t crazy Tim.” Lucy says. “You’re a dad. That is your baby girl.” She points to the screen. 

“True.” He says. “I do like when our little family is all together but I also like when we are alone.” He pulls Lucy towards the bed and they fall down on it. He rolls over so he’s hovering above her.

“Look at you looking on the bright side.” She teases him. She pulls him down for a kiss and he kisses her back. He’s not sure how far they will get but it doesn’t matter—he has the woman he loves in bed with him and his baby girl down the hall. And he has his little family in one house and really that’s all he can ask for. 

Notes:

Up next: Cora being a total daddy’s girl

Chapter 37: Daddy’s little girl

Summary:

Cora being a total daddy’s girl

Notes:

I am slowing down on the updates just because this story is about to end and I don’t want it to 😭😭😭. I hope you enjoy this chapter! 🩷

Oh and Cora is 7 months in this chapter

[He said, "You can be anything you want to in this great big world" But I'm always gonna be daddy's little girl.]

“D-dada.” Cora blabbers. “Dadada.” Tim’s eyes widen and he turns to look at Lucy who is in the kitchen getting Cora’s bottle ready. 

“Did you hear that?” He asks excitedly scooping his daughter up. “She said dada.” Lucy looks up at him and shakes her head.

“She’s doing baby talk Tim.” Lucy says. “Did you know that it’s easier for a baby to say dada than mama which is why their first word is usually dada.”

“No. I didn’t know that.” Tim says throwing Cora up in the air making her giggle loudly. “In my case it probably will be dada because she’s a daddy’s girl aren’t you baby?” Cora giggles some more as Tim tosses Cora in the air.

“Dadadaaa.” Cora squeals. “D-ddadada.” Tim looks over at Lucy giving her a pointed look. 

“See?” He says. “She’s definitely saying dada.” Lucy just shakes her head but she’s smiling as she walks over and hands Tim the bottle. 

“She’s a smart cookie.” Lucy says bending down to kiss Cora on the top of her head. “I wouldn’t be surprised if she did say dada or mama soon.”

“It will be dada.” 

“You never know it could be mama.” Lucy points out. Tim shakes his head and looks at the baby who is now chewing on her hands. Tim goes over to the essential basket Lucy had made for the livening room. It had everything from toys to teething toys. It had extra diapers, wipes and a few other things they would need right away.

He picks out a teething ring and hands it to the baby and then takes a seat on the sofa. Cora shoves the ring in her mouth and then takes it out. She hits Tim on the knee with and giggles loudly.

“You’re daddy’s little girl huh.” He coos. “And you will say dada first huh. Cora just shoves the ring back in her mouth.

“Don’t pressure her Tim.” Lucy says walking over to them and taking a seat next to Tim. “She will say her first word when she’s ready.” 

“I know.” Tim says and he’s not sure he’s ready for that milestone yet. Cora was already sleeping in her own room and it was going good. She was starting to roll over and scoot a little. And now she was babbling and her first word was bound to happen soon.

Time really needed to slow down. 

“She will always be daddy’s little girl though.” Lucy says looking at Cora. “Huh baby? You love your daddy. I don’t blame you.” 

“Really?” Tim asks smirking at her. “You love me?” Lucy rolls her eyes and leans over to give him a kiss. She brushes her lips against his and then pulls back.

“I do.” She says and he watches as her eyes light up. “I really, really do.” Tim smiles to himself because it didn’t matter what Cora’s first word was. He knows whatever it was would hold a special place in his heart no matter what. 

She would always be daddy’s little girl.

***

“Are you sure you will be fine with her all day?” Lucy asks reaching out to adjust the pacifier in Cora’s mouth. Cora just lays her head on Tim’s shoulder and lets out a soft sigh. Tim has the day off and Lucy didn’t. It was a good thing too because Cora was coming day with a cold or some kind of bug she caught from daycare.

“I’m sure baby.” Tim says. “Cora is going to be just fine and I will be fine. She is a daddy’s girl after all.”

“And she usually prefers me when she isn’t feeling well.” Lucy points out. Tim shakes his head and leans in to give Lucy a kiss.

“She loves you plenty Lucy. Sick or not. But don’t worry I will take good care of her.” He says. Lucy’s face softens a little, and she picks up her keys.

“I know you will.” She says. “Call me if you need anything.” Tim nods and Lucy walks out the door without another word.

“Well baby girl.” Tim says. “It’s just you and me today. What do you want to do?” Cora just looks at him with tired blue eyes and then buries her face in his shoulder.

“How about we rest?” Tim says. He walks over to the sofa and sits day laying Cora on his chest. He can hear her breathing is a little wheezy and stuffed up. He can feel it in her chest, and it breaks his heart that his baby girl is sick.

He rubs her back and she looks up at him. “You are daddy’s little girl huh?” He asks. “I wish I could make you feel better. “I really do.” 

Cora just stares at him like she trusts him to make her feel better. “I love you.” He says pressing a kiss to the top of her head and then rubbing her back. “You are going to be okay.”

“You are my sunshine.” He sings softly. He can’t sing not like Lucy can but he knows this calms Cora down. He has heard Lucy sing it to her many times. “My only sunshine. You make me happy when skies are grey.” 

Cora whimpers and buries her head in Tim’s chest. “I know I’m not mama.” He mutters. “And usually you are daddy’s little girl.” 

There’s a long silence and he hears Cora’s breathing even out but she’s not asleep. “How about I tell you a story?” He says. “How mama and daddy got together. Do you want the original or the sequel?” 

Cora blinks up at him looking tired. “Right let’s go with the sequel. It led us to you after all.” He says. “Mama and daddy were apart for awhile. It was daddy’s fault, I made the mistake of letting her go. I know I know.” He pauses and rubs Cora’s back. 

“Anyway. Daddy got help. He went to therapy, he went a veteran’s group. And mama seduced him a couple of times. Don’t tell her I told you that.” He says but he knows his 7 month old doesn’t understand a word he’s saying. “He got better and started opening up more. Mama forgave him and it was all uphill from there. We had some highs and lows. Our highest was when we got married and when we had you.” He pauses again and looks down at his daughter who is fast asleep now.

He sighs in relief and lays his own head back against the back of the sofa. He had switched off last night to make sure Cora was okay and breathing. 

So he was tired or he was getting sick. 

Either way.

He’s glad he can rest his eyes. 

***

Tim wakes up to someone shaking his shoulder. He opens his eyes slowly to see Lucy staring down at him. He blinks a couple of times before he’s sitting up and reaching for Cora but she’s not on his chest anymore.

“Cora—”

“She’s asleep.” Lucy reassures him and she sounds stuffed up too. 

“What are you doing home?” He asks standing up. He takes a good look at her and realizes she looks awful. 

“I was worried about Cora.” She says. “And Grey sent me home. I think I caught what Cora has.”

“Oh boy.” He mutters and he pulls her down onto the couch. She curls up into his side and sighs softly.

“You’re going to get sick.” She says. 

“I think I’m already there babe.” Tim says. “It’s fine. We can all be miserable together.” Lucy laughs and Tim presses a kiss to the top of her head.

“It might be the cold medicine I took but why does that sound like the best night ever?” She asks. Tim snorts and kisses her once and then twice. It’s not like he hasn’t already caught the sickness.

“I love you.” She mutters. “I’m sorry Cora got us sick.” Tim just closes his eyes again and takes a deep breath.

“I love you too and it’s okay.” He says. “I wouldn’t want to be sick with anyone else.” 

***

“How’s daddy’s little girl today?” Tim ask as he changes Cora into her outfit for the day. Lucy had laid something out but he went rouge and put on a cute little onesie that said: Daddy’s girl. “Are we going to go see mama at work?” 

Cora giggles loudly and kicks her little feet. “Can you say mama?” He coos as he buttons her up.  “Or dada?” Cora giggles again and he picks her up.

“You are the best daddy’s girl.” He says. He brushes some hair out of her face. “Don’t tell mama but you might just be my favorite.” 

“I heard that!” Lucy calls from the hallway and peaks her head into the nursery. “You are infuriating Tim Bradford.”

“I thought you already left.” Tim says grinning at her. “Look how cute she looks.” Lucy comes into the nursery and looks Cora over.

“Daddy’s girl?”

“She is.” Tim says. “But she does love her mama. As do I.” He hands Cora over to Lucy and the baby giggles and lays her head on Lucy’s shoulder.

“I would hope so.” Lucy says giving time a look. “Will I see you two later?” Tim nods and Lucy hands Cora back to him and then she leans in to kiss him.

“I do love you Tim.” 

“I know. I love you too.” He says. “Now go to work. I got this handled.” Lucy gives them one last look and then hurries away. 

“All right baby girl.” Tim says to Cora. “Let’s get some breakfast and then we will go see mama for lunch. How does that sound?” Cora giggles loudly and Tim can only guess that’s good.

***

“What happened to her outfit?” Lucy asks as they sit down at the tables outside the station. Tim sighs and drops the diaper bag on the ground. Cora has a blow out just before they were walking into the station so he had to change her. And ironically her clean onesie said: mama’s best friend.

“Blow out.” He says. “The little stinker.” Lucy laughs and bounces Cora on her lap.

“Are you being difficult for your daddy? I thought you were daddy’s little girl.” Lucy says. Cora reaches up to put her hand on Lucy’s chin.

“She is.” Tim says because despite having a very messy diaper—Cora remained happy and smiling throughout the whole ordeal.

Cora looks at Tim and a giant smile lights up her face. She giggles and kicks her feet a little. Tim gives Lucy a pointed look but she just rolls her eyes. 

“I see that.” Lucy says and then she pauses looking at Tim. “I don’t blame her. You are one of a kind.” Tim grins at her and leans forward to give her a kiss, Cora giggles and cuts in a little shoving Lucy away.

“Looks like I’ve been replaced.” Lucy says. Tim shakes his head and tries again. 

“You will never be replaced Luce.” He says. “You and Cora will always be my favorites.” The smile Lucy gives him is worth everything.

“Good.” She says. “That’s good.” Tim hopes Cora will always be a daddy’s little girl—he hopes that she would always rely on him no matter what. He hopes that no matter she knows she could go to both of them. 

And she would forever be daddy’s little girl. Always. 

Notes:

The closeness of Tim and Lucy.

Chapter 38: Keep me close

Summary:

The closeness of Tim & Lucy and them asking to keep the other close.

Notes:

I’m sorry this took so long! I really am trying to space this out so it doesn’t end too soon!

[If you are close to someone, you know them very well and like them a lot]

***

“Keep me close.” Lucy says one night as Tim is getting into bed. He looks over to check that Cora is still asleep in her crib. She is fast asleep just like she had been when they walked out of her room.

“What?” Tim asks looking over at her with raised eyebrows. Lucy knows it’s random but she just wants to feel Tim right now. She doesn’t necessarily need him in that way, she just wants to be close to him. She feels safer, more comfortable when she is in his arms. When his arms are around him. 

“Keep me close.” She says and she moves closer to him. He reaches out and pulls her close pressing a kiss to the top of her head. 

“Okay.” He says softly. “I can keep you close.” Lucy hums softly and breathes her husband in. He smells a little bit like Cora but he also smells like him. It’s fresh and clean and one of her favorites scents in the world.

It’s her home. 

He’s her home.

“Thank you.” She mutters and it’s so simple, it’s something they do every single day but it’s also something she will never take for granted. “I love you.”

“I love you too Luce.” He mutters. “Always.”

***

“Keep me close.” Tim mutters into Lucy’s ear. They are curled up by the fire in the cabin that Tim had spontaneously rented for the long weekend. Cora was asleep in the bedroom but they weren’t quite ready to make their way back there.

“Only if you keep me warm.” Lucy says tipping her back to look at him. “I’m cold.” Tim chuckles and presses a kiss to her lips. 

“Okay.” He mutters. “I can do that.” He rests his chin on top of her head, and maybe this was an out of the blue trip. Maybe they did just throw everything into his truck and drive to Tahoe. Maybe they forgot a few things but—

It was worth it. 

It was absolutely beautiful here and they spent the day by the lake. Cora was at the age where she was curious and even if she couldn’t quite walk yet—she had learned how to crawl and was crawling everywhere. It was amazing watching his daughter grow and hit all her milestones. Sometimes he still couldn’t believe he was living the life he always wanted and dreamed of. 

An amazing wife and daughter. 

An amazing job.

He was definitely living the life and he would definitely be keeping Lucy close. 

“Tim?” Lucy says and he turns his attention to her. “Thank you for bringing us here. It’s been fun.” Tim presses a kiss to her lips, and there’s no place he would rather be than right here with Lucy and Cora. 

Keeping them warm and safe.

It was perfect.

*** 

“Keep me close.” Lucy mutters to Tim one night as they are laying in bed. “All night please.” Tim moves over and gathers her up in his arms burying his nose into her hair. 

“What’s wrong?” He asks softly. It’s not unusual for Lucy to ask him to keep her close. It’s not unusual for them to be attached at the hip even in bed but she sounds different like something is wrong.

“Nothing—” She starts and then she pauses and he feels her take a deep breath and then let it out.  “I had a rough call today.” 

“Oh?” Tim says. Since they are both sergeants they are usually doing different calls with different people and they don’t normally see each other until the end of the day. And even then it’s just deciding who will pick up Cora if they didn’t come to work together. They tried not to bring their work home with them especially since they had Cora now. They tried to leave it all at the door. But sometimes—they needed to talk it out.

“I’m sorry I didn’t say anything.” Lucy says. Tim presses a kiss to the top of her head and waits for her to continue. “It’s just ever since becoming a mom I have been more aware of things. You know?” 

Tim hums softly in understanding because he was the same way. He was already suspicious of everyone but now he was doubly suspicious. Whenever he was out with Cora he always wanted to have his eyes on her. He didn’t want anyone to have a chance to get to her. 

He had cop eyes and dad eyes.

“I know what you mean.” He says. “I am extra cautious now too.” 

“You always have been.” Lucy says. “And since I have become a cop I am more so. But it’s like I suspect everyone now. Cora is my number one priority when we are out.”

“I get it Luce.” Tim says although he doesn’t know where he’s going with this or what this had to do with a tough call. “But what does this have to do with a tough call?”

Lucy sighs and he feels her heart beating a little faster. “We went into this house. It was filthy, dishes piled up, a dust everyone and it smelled.” She pauses and then continues. “There were two babies and a drunk dad. He didn’t care about the filth his children were living in.” 

“Oh Luce.” Tim says softly. And he could only imagine how hard it was to walk into that. “I’m sorry.” 

“I just noticed every single detail. The babies were filthy even. One was about Cora’s age and she didn’t have a clean diaper. Cora cries when her diaper needs changed and we do it.”

“Of course we do.” Tim says. “We are her parents and we take care of her. And live her. That dad was never meant to be a dad.”

“Yeah.” Lucy mutters. “It just sucks knowing there are parents and kids out there like that. Knowing that I helped those babies but there are so many more out there.” 

“That is why I wanted you to see that the world isn’t all good.” Tim says softly. “You needed to see the bad so you could deal with it.”

“I appreciate that.” Lucy says. “And I do use that. But knowing we have a little girl who is going to grow up in this world. This harsh world.” She trials off and Tim takes a deep breath too. It does scare him sometimes that they have a daughter he we who is so innocent and one is going to go out on her own. He knows they will both do their best to help her, love her and nourish her to be the best.

“I know it scares me too baby.” He mutters. “She’s so little and she’s so innocent.” 

“I just want to protect her. I want to keep her close all the time.” Lucy says. “But we can’t—” She glances at the baby monitor where Cora is sound asleep in her crib. 

“She’s safe. She will be safe with us always. And we will keep her close for as long as we can.” Tim says.

“I love her so much.” Lucy mutters. “It’s like when you are a cop and a mom it’s extra scary.” 

“I love her too.” Tim says. “And I get it being a daddy cop is hard.” Lucy freezes and turns to face him. She has a amused smile on her face.

“What did you just say?”

“Daddy cop—” He pauses and then groans. “I mean a daddy and a cop.” Lucy giggles and leans forward to kiss him.

“Arrest me but make it sexy.” She sings. Tim rolls his eyes but doesn’t let her go. He loves her warmness, he loves how close she is to him.

“Shhh.” He says. “Don’t make this weird.” Lucy giggles and kisses him again and again. 

“You are the one who said daddy cop.” She points out. “Is that a baton in your pocket or are you just happy to see me?”

“Lucy.” He groans and she giggles and despite everything he is happy to see there is a smile on her face.

“Sorry.” She says. “I needed that.” Tim tugs her closer and he gets it. Sometimes he needs the light heartedness too after a long day.

“It’s okay.” Tim says. “I’m sorry you had a rough day but I’m always here for you Lucy. I will always be here to keep you close.”

“Good.” She says softly. “Thank you for keeping me close.”

“Anytime Lucy.” He mutters. “Anytime.” He glances over at the baby monitor because he kept help it. Cora is stirring a little bit she remains fast asleep. He knows she’s only 8 months old but he was growing up fast and he would do everything and anything to protect her.

Always. 

He would keep both Lucy and Cora close always.

“Hey Tim?” 

“Yeah baby?” He says softly brushing some hair out of her face. 

“You are daddy cop.” She asks softly after a few minutes of silence. 

She says grinning at him. “And thank you for always keeping me close.” 

Keep me close.

Keep close.

Keep me close. 

 

Notes:

Up next: Tim & Lucy reflect

Chapter 39: All is good

Summary:

Tim and Lucy reflect on their life and relationship. The good and the bad.

Notes:

I’m sorry I never meant for it take this long to update but I guess I just got distracted. This story is almost done and hopefully chapter 40 doesn’t take too long. Thank you for the support on this story! I really enjoyed writing it!

Cora is 8, 9 and 10 months old in this

[reflection.noun. serious thought or consideration.]

***

“Good job Cora!” Lucy says clapping her hands as her daughter crawls over to her. “That my big girl.” Cora gives her a smile and Lucy sees the two little bottom teeth sticking out. It had been a long few nights and she knows it’s not over. Cora teething just the beginning and they were doing everything they could to keep her comfortable and not in too much pain.

Cora giggles and climbs up on Lucy’s lap and looks up at her. She really was a mini Lucy but she had Tim’s eye color and sometimes when Lucy looked at her she could see Tim looking back at her. 

And she loves that her daughter looks like him. She was after all half Lucy and half Tim. 

“What’s going on in here?” Tim asks coming into the room. Cora squeals and gets over Lucy’s lap to crawl over to Tim. 

She also was still a total daddy’s girl. 

“Hi baby girl.” Tim says scooping her up and throwing her in the air making her giggle loudly. “What are you doing?” Cora just giggles and lays her head on his shoulders. Lucy watches them in awe. 

She remembers when having a baby was a distant dream for both of them. She remembers when they just got back together and she was on the night shift. 

It seemed so long again, it seemed like it was all just another dream. 

“You good?” Tim asks coming over to her. Lucy stands up and smiles at him. She never thought this would be her life. 

Tim. Cora. Living a very comfortable life. She didn’t think it was in the realm of possibility. 

“I’m good.” She reassures him. Lucy looks at Cora who has her head on Tim’s shoulder but it’s looking at Lucy with a smile on her face. She loves her daddy, she giggles every time Tim walked into a room and if he left the room too quickly she would get upset. 

But there was something about the way Cora looked at Lucy like she trusts her with her entire little body. She knows Lucy is safe and would do anything for her. She knows when she is in Lucy’s arms she is comfortable.

“What are you thinking about?” Tim asks Lucy searching her face curiously. Lucy shrugs and reaches out to brush some hair from Cora’s face. She was getting enough hair so Lucy could put it in two little pigtails and it killed Tim every time she did. She’s not sure she ever heard her husband make a squeal like sound—ever.

“Us.” She says. “We have come so far. It seems like just yesterday we were talking about getting back together. I was on the night shift and never saw you.” Tim nods and his eyes are on her face as he takes her hand and pulls her closer. Cora shifts a little and lays her head on Tim’s chest. 

“I remember.” He says. “I missed you so much. And I was kicking myself because we could have had all and all this a lot sooner.”

“True.” Lucy says. “But we figured it out Tim. We made it work in our own way and now look.” They both look at Cora who is half asleep. 

“We have the best life.” Tim says. Lucy nods her head and Tim squeezes her hand. She thinks no matter how they happened it would have been good. And despite all the heart break, despite everything that happened in between she wouldn’t trade it for the world. They were where they were because they fought to make it happen.

“All is good.” She says and Tim nods leaning over to kiss her but he’s careful not to move Cora. 

“All is good.”  

***

“She is so cute.” Angela says to Lucy as they watch Cora crawl around on the ground. She pauses and picks up a toy and then throws making herself giggle.

“I mean I’m probably bias.” Lucy says as she watches Cora some more. “But I do think she’s the cutest baby.” 

Angela laughs a little and the nods her head. “How is she doing? She’s teething and crawling. Has she tried to say her first word?”

“Not yet.” Lucy says and she thinks about how her and Tim were in competition for Cora’s first word. She wants her to say mama because she already gravitated towards Tim. Tim on the other hand was certain her first word would be dada. And Lucy has a feeling he was right. It was easier for her to say and sometimes Lucy thought she was already saying it.  

“She will.” Angela says. “And even if it’s dada. Mama won’t be far behind.” Lucy nods and she knows Angela is right. They were letting Cora meet her milestones on her own time. They didn’t want to pressure the baby or have her rush through anything. She was only 9 months old, and she would only be this little for a little bit longer. Lucy was soaking it in as much as possible. 

“I remember how badly Tim wanted to be a dad.” Angela says thoughtfully looking at Lucy. She turns away from her daughter to look at her friend. “Before he met you and when Isabel was still around.”

“Yeah?”

“Tim is a private guy. It took him awhile to open up to me but I just knew.” Angela says. 

“He thought he would have kids with Isabel.” Lucy says. “At least three.” Angela nods and smiles at her.

“You are making him happy. Not just with Cora but this is everything he wanted from the beginning.” She says. “I know he’s not perfect and he messed up.”

“He did.” Lucy says. “But even back then I knew who he was. And I wouldn’t trade what happened for anything. We are happy and we have a beautiful life.” Angela nods and Lucy turns back to Cora who crawls over to her and sits at her feet. 

“Hi baby.” Lucy says lifting her up on her lap. She kisses the top of Cora’s head. This was the life and she was holding on tight. She has a beautiful daughter, she has an amazing husband. And that’s all that matters. 

***

“Say mama.” Lucy says to Cora who is in her high chair. “Say mama.” Cora just stares at her with a smile on her face. 

“You can’t force her to say it Luce.” Tim says coming up behind Lucy. “You just got to let her sound it out on her own.

“Oh like you don’t tell her to say dada.” Lucy grumbles. “We all know she will say it first.”

“I don’t.” Tim says but he looks guilty. “She will say what she is suppose to say.” Lucy rolls her eyes a little and then looks at Cora again.

“Your dada is annoying.” She says. “Say mama.” Cora just claps her hands and kicks her little feet and then makes the gesture for more food.

“You want more?” Lucy asks. She dips the spoon in the mash potatoes that she had made for her and brings it up to her mouth. Cora giggles loudly, and eats it without hesitation.

“Well we know she likes potatoes.” Lucy says turning to look at Tim. “Huh baby girl?” Cora claps her hands and Lucy feeds her some more.

“She’s a good baby.” Tim comments. “We are lucky huh?” Lucy nods and feed the baby more potatoes and then wipes up her face. 

“The luckiest.” She agrees. “You are okay too.” She says. Tim rolls his eyes and turns her around so she’s facing him. Lucy puts Cora’s spoon down and the loops her arms around his neck.

“Just okay?”

“Okay maybe a little more than okay.” She says. “You are my baby daddy after all.”

“Funny.” He says. “You think you are funny.” Lucy grins at him and pulls him down for a kiss. The fact that they can still tease each other like this after all these years is amazing. 

“I am.” She says. “You think I’m hilarious—” She’s cut off by something hitting Tim directly on the cheek.

“What—” Tim starts and they both look over to see Cora holding the spoon full of mash potatoes. She grins when she sees Tim and tosses it again. This time it hits Lucy. 

“Oh she thinks she’s funny too.” Tim grumbles. Cora picks up the potatoes with her tiny hands and throws.

“I think we have a softball player on our hands.” Lucy says as Tim ducks and then scoops up Cora in his arms. 

Cora giggles loudly kicking her feet and looking at Tim with nothing but love in her eyes. 

“Hey.” She says bumping her hip with his. “All is good.” He looks over at her and he is smiling. She loves when he smiles and when it’s because of genuine happiness. 

“Yeah.” He says and he bounces Cora a little. “All is good.” There is a short pause, and then a tiny voice breaks the silence. And it fills Lucy’s heart with such joy and love she could explode. It’s everything she has ever wanted, and dreamed of.

“Mama.” 

Lucy exchanges a look with Tim who looks a little stunned. A little like she feels, and then she looks at Cora who is smiling up at Tim. 

“Good job baby.” Lucy says softly. “I’m so proud of you.” Cora giggles and calls her hands. And all is good. All is good. 

Notes:

Up next: Forever and always with Tim and Lucy & Cora. (Final chapter)

Chapter 40: Forever and always

Summary:

Tim, Lucy and Cora’s forever and always.

Notes:

I am so sorry this took so long to update. I just inspiration for it after awhile. I still love it and it’s one of my longest fics that I have written!

I hope you enjoy the final chapter!!

[adverb. Forever. for all future time; for always. Adverb. Always. at all times; on all occasions.]

***

“She said mama first.” Tim grumbles at Lucy who is kneeled on the floor. “Little stinker.” Lucy looks over at him an amused look on her face.

“A little jealous Tim?” Lucy asks and Tim rolls his eyes. He wasn’t jealous, he wasn’t even a little jealous. 

Maybe he was at first. 

But he was actually happy that Cora said mama first. He loved the look on Lucy’s face when she said it. The way it lit up knowing that their baby girl said mama. 

“No.” He says and he kneels on the ground too and looks over to where Cora is playing with her toys. “But I think it would be nice if she took her first steps to me.” 

Lucy rolls her eyes and gives him a soft smile. “Well maybe she will. Or maybe she will say dada next.” 

Tim nods his head and looks over at his daughter who isn’t paying them any mind. She’s distracted by the toy Lucy had given her earlier. 

“She better.” He mumbles. Lucy grins at him and bumps her shoulder with his. 

“I thought you said to let her do her milestones at her own pace.” Lucy says. “You can’t force her to say dada.”

“No but—” Tim looks over at Cora who is now pushing herself up a little. “Look.” Lucy follows his gaze and her jaw drops a little. 

“Is she going to—”Lucy pauses. “Is she going to take her first steps?” Tim looks over at her and his heart is pounding hard in his chest. 

Their baby girl was growing up right before their eyes. 

It both broke his heart and filled Tim with pride. Their baby, their baby girl who was their pride and joy was almost a year old. Soon they would have a baby but a toddler, one that walked and talked.

“Maybe.” Tim says looking at Cora who is pulling herself up by the chair now. “Come on baby. Come to daddy.” Cora looks at him, her blue eyes so much like his on his face. 

“Mama.” She says and Tim sighs looking up at Lucy who is smiling. 

“I’m not mama.” Tim says. “I’m dada.” Cora looks at him and then giggles and falls on her bottom but she doesn’t cry she just giggles.

“Maybe another time.” Lucy says walking over to Cora and scooping her up and she presses a kiss to the top of her head. “Huh baby?” 

Tim sighs loudly but he knows Cora will walk on her own time. He didn’t want to push her too much. 

And she would say dada too… eventually. 

“We are going to have this forever huh?” Lucy asks bumping him with her hip. He looks over at her and gives her a smile. 

“Yes.” He says. “Forever and always.” 

***

“Dada.” Tim jumps a little bit and turns to look at his daughter who is sitting up in Lucy’s lap. She giggles when Tim looks at her and holds out her arms for him. “Dada.” 

“Oh my god.” Tim says and he immediately sweeps Cora up into his arms. Lucy says something but he doesn’t hear it as he holds onto his daughter. “She said dada.” He does turn to look at Lucy who has tears in her eyes. He didn’t realize Cora saying dada would get them this emotional.

“She did.” Lucy says. She stands up and comes over to Tim and wraps her arms around them both. “She did.” 

Tim is once again reminded that he gets this—he gets Lucy and Cora for the rest of his life. He gets all these firsts, he gets the fights and he gets the love and everything in between.

“I can’t believe how fast she’s growing up.” Tim says looking at his wife. He couldn’t wait for Cora to say dada but now it just reminds him she won’t be this little forever.

“She’s not going anywhere anytime soon.” Lucy says coming over to kiss Tim and then Cora. “We still get her for a little while.” Tim bounces Cora in his arms making the baby giggle. 

“Forever and always.” He says and then he tosses the baby up in the air and catches her easily. He glances over at Lucy who smiles at him.

“Yeah.” She says her eyes still on them. “Forever and always.” Tim’s not sure how it could get better than this. 

Than his wife and daughter. 

His baby girl saying dada. 

And growing up right in front of their eyes. 

He never thought he would get to this point in his life. And after he messed everything up with Lucy—he really didn’t think he would ever get here. 

But here they are. They have a whole life together, one Tim could only dream and hope for. And he would get this.

Forever and always.

***

“Lucy!” Tim calls from the living room. She is in the kitchen getting a snack for Cora and he was in the living room keeping his eyes on Cora who for the last five minutes was just standing and staring at Tim. She was holding onto the sofa and she was a little wobbly but she was standing. And he has a feeling she was going to start walking. “Come here!” Lucy hurries in holding a knife and looks at him.

“What?”

“She’s going to start walking.” Tim says pointing at Cora. “Watch.” He turns to look at his daughter who is looking between them. 

“Dada.” Cora says looking directly at Tim. Tim’s heart clenches a little like it always does when his baby girl said dada. “Dada!” Tim doesn’t take his eyes off of Cora, but he does pull out his phone.

“Come here baby.” He says softly. “Come to dada.” Cora looks at him and then takes a step forward. It’s tiny and a little hesitant but she let’s go of the sofa. Lucy makes a soft noise but Tim is already recording her. 

Cora takes another step.

And then another.

And then another.

Lucy is cheering her on and Tim drops the phone as soon as Cora reaches him and falls into his arms.

“She did it!” Lucy says and she falls to the ground next to them. “You did it baby girl.” Cora giggles and buries her face into Tim’s shoulder. 

“Heck yeah she did.” Tim says and he throws Cora up in the air making the baby giggle loudly. “God she’s growing up way too fast.” 

Lucy scoots closer to the both of them and lays her head on Tim’s shoulder. “Before you know it, she will be a year old. We will have a one year old.” 

“Don’t remind me.” Tim says softly. He then turns to look at her, and gives her a sly smile.

“I don’t like that smile.” She says poking at him. “What are you thinking?” Tim shifts Cora in his lap, and turns so he has his eyes on her.

“Do you want more kids?” He asks. He has been thinking about this for awhile, he knows Cora’s birth and postpartum were hard for Lucy and he in no way wants to pressure her. And Cora wasn’t even one yet. He’s not sure he wants kids that close together. They were enjoying Cora, and all her milestones. 

“Sure.” Lucy says and she runs her fingers through her hair looking at Cora. “This has been the biggest blessing. Cora has been the best thing to happen to us. Despite everything. I just don’t know if I want another one right now.”

Tim nods and that’s all he needs to know. They were on the same page and they would get there eventually. 

“Good.” He says. “I want more kids too but this one is pretty great.” He flips Cora upside down and blows on her belly making her giggle loudly. He feels Lucy’s eyes on him and when he has Cora back in his lap he tilts his head at her.

“You good?”

“Yeah.” She says and she scoots closer so she’s practically on his lap. “We get this forever huh?” 

“Forever and always.” He says softly. 

“Forever and always.” She says back. And he really is lucky.

***

“Happy birthday to you.” Lucy sings as she and Tim walk into the Cora’s room. The baby is standing up in her crib holding onto the side. “Happy birthday to you. Happy birthday dear Cora. Happy birthday to you.” 

Tim gets to the crib first and swoops down to pick Cora up. “Happy birthday Cora Mei.” Lucy says coming over to kiss Cora on the cheek. “I can’t believe you are a year old.” 

“I can’t believe we kept a baby alive for a full year.” Tim says he bounces Cora on his hip and she giggles pressing her face into his shoulder.

“Dada.”

“Yeah.” Tim says and he looks over at Lucy who looks like she’s about to cry. She spent last night emotional at the fact that their baby was turning one. “I’m your dada.”

“Come on.” Lucy says and he takes Cora from Tim’s arms and Tim follows her out of the room and to the kitchen. Lucy puts Cora in the high chair and puts her breakfast she made earlier in front of her.

“Big girl breakfast for a one year old.” Lucy says. Cora giggles and picks up the eggs and shoves them in her mouth.

“Very lady like Cora Mei.” Tim says shaking his head. Lucy rolls her eyes a little at him. 

“It’s her birthday.” She says. “Give her a break.” Tim just goes over to turn on the coffee pot, while Lucy helps Cora eat.

“Tim.” Lucy says and he turns to look at her. “We have a one year old.” 

“We do.” He says and he comes over to pull Lucy in his arms. “We have a one year old. We are married and happy. We both have good jobs.” 

“We have  beautiful daughter.” Lucy says. Tim nods and presses a kiss to the the side of her head. 

Oh he loves this little life. 

He loves Lucy and Cora.

He just loves he gets this—he gets them forever and always. 

No matter what.

“A one year old.” Tim says. “I love you Lucy.” 

“I love you too.” She says. “Forever and always.” 

“Forever and always.”

***

Tim comes home to a silent house and he gets a weird feeling. He makes his way to the bedroom. 

“Lucy?” He calls. “Baby?” He leaves the bedroom and peeks in Cora’s room where he sees the baby fast asleep. 

He goes to back to the bedroom and sees the bathroom light is on and the door is halfway open. He pushes it all the way open and sees Lucy on the edge of the bathtub. He sees Cora’s toys on the edge and her towel folded neatly on the other side. 

“Hi.” Lucy says without looking up. “I didn’t hear you come in.” 

“Its okay.” Tim says coming to sit next to her. “Whats going on?” 

“Nothing.” Lucy says and then she presses something in his hand. “Except I’m pregnant.” There’s a short silence as Tim stares down at the test.

“You—”

“We said we would wait.” She whispers. “Apparently your sperm didn’t get the message.” Tim huffs out a laugh. 

Cora is only 16 months old. And they did say they would wait. But they also had date night and that always ended with the very real possibility she could get pregnant.

“Oh my god Luce.” He says and his wife turns to look at him. “We are having another baby.” 

“We are.” Lucy says and this time a smile lights up her face. “We are having another baby.” Tim pulls her into a hug, and he can’t quite believe this. 

This is his life. This is the life that he always dreamed of. They were happy, and their daughter was thriving and they were having another baby. 

“Are you happy?” Tim asks. Lucy pulls away and gives him the biggest smile. He knows this isn’t what she had planned but it was okay. Cora would get a little best friend. They would have one more to love and cherish. 

“Absolutely.” She says softly. “Are you?” Tim takes a deep breath because it’s an easy answer. He almost didn’t have this—he almost let it all go and lost it forever. 

“Yes.” Tim says. “I am beyond happy Lucy. I love you. I love Cora and this little life we are building.”

“Together.” Lucy says and he nods. Together. Forever and always.

“Forever and always.” He says.

“Forever and always.” And he knows this is indeed a forever kind of thing. With Lucy. With Cora and with this new baby.

It’s a new chapter. 

Its their new chapter. And he can’t wait to get it started.

Forever and always.

Fin. 

Notes:

Thank you for reading this! I know the updates were slow and if anyone still read this I appreciate it!

Notes:

Thank you for reading! 🩵