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Eddie watched as Shannon walked towards the airport. Christopher waved from the window and she waved back.
Shannon asked Eddie for a divorce a few months after he got back from Afghanistan. That was eight months ago. Now she is moving to California to take care of her mom. Eddie got back into the car and pulled away from the terminal.
“When is mama coming back?” Chris asked, looking towards his father.
“I'm not sure how long it will be, buddy. She's going to take care of grandma Janet since she's sick.” Eddie replied, looking at him in the rearview mirror. Chris continued to look out the window as Eddie drove to his parents. He tried to ignore the little sniffles coming from his son.
“He fell asleep,” Eddie said as he walked into his parents' living room. They had dinner and spent the evening with his parents before Chris fell asleep. “I'm gonna go out for a little bit. clear my mind” Eddie said quietly as he grabbed his jacket.
“Be careful, we'll watch him” His mom said as she pulled him into a hug.
Eddie sat in his truck for a few minutes as he looked up at the sky as it started to turn hues of pink and orange. With a sigh he began his drive into town. As he drove down the dirt road he frowned at a tall figure walking along the side with a bag. The man stopped and turned towards the truck as the glow of a sunset shined down on him.
Eddie should know better than to stop and roll his window down for a complete stranger. But the poor guy looks terrified. The guy looked into the truck as Eddie rolled the window down.
“You know it's not very safe to just be walking along the road like this, it's starting to get dark.” He said as he looked at the man. He leaned his arms on the door and leaned into the truck slightly.
“I um, I was trying to get to town.” He said with a chuckle. “You know how to get there from here? my phone is dead so I can't really call anyone.” He doesn't know what he was thinking when he did it, but Eddie hit the unlock button and watched as the man straightened. He threw his duffle bag into the back seat and got in.
“The names Eddie, I can take you into town”
“Evan” He replied and looked at him with a raised eyebrow. “Do you often pick up random people on the side of the road?” He asked as Eddie put the car into drive.
“Nope, so hopefully you're not some kind of serial killer” He said with a smirk. Evan shook his head. “So why do you need to get to town? and why are you walking at night instead of in a car?” Eddie asked, looking towards him.
“I ran out of gas and couldn't make it to a gas station so I started walking to try and find one” He explained looking towards the road. “I was hoping I could either get it towed or maybe find a gas jug to take back to my car or something.’
“How did you run out of gas? you should've topped it off at the last one, stores and gas stations aren’t close together out here”.
“Lesson learned I guess. What about you? you look pretty tired to be out here driving.”
“I had a long day” was all he said in return. Evan hummed, nodding slowly. “My ex wife left for California” Eddie wasn't sure why he was telling this man this information. “My son cried himself to sleep because his mom left, and I just needed some time to breathe about it I guess” Evan stayed quiet.
“You have a son?” Was what he decided to ask. Eddie looked at him as he turned down another dirt road.
“Um yeah, he's 6” He said quietly.
“Oh I love kids!” Evan said excitedly with a huge grin on his face.
“I love this one,” Eddie replied with a small smile pulling down the visor and pointing at a picture of his smiling son. “he's got cp, it doesn't slow him down though” he added with a fond smile pulling to a stop at a red light.
“He looks like a sweet kid,” Evan replied, looking at Eddie. Eddie looked back at him as Evan's face was lit up by the traffic light. His breath hitched as he took in the man's features. Evan didn't notice and looked back out the window.
I don't want to drop him off
Eddie thought to himself. Looked out the window and watched Evan as he watched the gas station go past.
“You went past a gas station, do they not have gas jugs or something? You're not actually kidnapping me are you? is your son not actually your son?” Evan started rambling. Eddie chuckled and shook his head, taking a turn to head back out of town.
“No I'm not kidnapping you, and yes my son is really my son” Eddie said looking at him with raised eyebrows. Evan had an adorable blush on his cheeks. “Just figured the night’s still young and your car will still be there in the morning.” He gave Eddie a shocked look before smirking.
“Wow me.” He said as Eddie looked back at the road. As they drove down the deserted road Evan gasped. “Oh I love this song!” He grabbed the dial and turned the volume up and began to sing a long. Eddie looked down at the radio.
That's My Kinda Night by Luke Byran
“All them other boys wanna wind you up and take you downtown, but you like the kind that likes to take it way out!” Evan looked at Eddie as he continued singing. He put his hand out the window to feel the wind as he continued singing all the songs that played. One after another Evan was singing.
“How do you know all of this? you don't really strike me as a country man” Eddie asked, turning the music down a little.
“Well I did spend some time working on a dude ranch in Oregon, I was on my way to California from Peru when I came through here. But I listened to some country, before traveling. and yeah I'm from Pennsylvania, not really the country” He said chuckling.
“A dude ranch?” Eddie asked with a quirked eyebrow. Evan smirked at him and turned the volume back up.
Make Me Wanna by Thomas Rhett started playing louder through the speakers.
“Just me and you and the man on the moon, cruisin’ down some old back road” Eddie watched him as Evan unbuckled his seat belt and stuck half his body out the window. He gasped and grabbed his arm pulling him back in. Evan pouted then let out a laugh. Buckling his seat belt again.
Eddie’s hand moved down to Evan's thigh.
“You make me wanna pull this truck to the side of the road, slide on over, let me hold you close” They both sang together. Evan watched as Eddie looked at his dash then put on the cruise control and quickly looked away as he turned towards him.
They'd been driving for a while now. Evan still had one hand out the window, the other resting on Eddie's arm. Eddie looked at the clock on the dash and saw that it read 3:35. He then looked at the gas gauge. There's still plenty left. He looked back over at Evan as the man leaned his head against the headrest with his eyes closed. A small smile across his face.
Eddie looked around and realized he had no idea where they were. He turned the cruise control off and looked around for any indication of they're location. Once he realized he took a right turn and pulled over to a familiar clearing and turned the truck off.
“Where are we?” Evan asked as Eddie unbuckled.
“Follow me” He said as he got out of the truck. Evan unbuckled and quickly opened the door. He ran after Eddie who grabbed his hand and pulled him towards the woods. They walked through the woods using a flashlight that Evan never noticed the other man grab.
Which, he should really be paying more attention to what is happening around him. Evan doesn't know why he trusts this man as much as he does but he's having a good time so oh well.
They break through a line of trees to see a lake. There's nobody else around. Eddie pulls him towards the water.
“Come on!” Is all he says before he's pulling off his shirt and dropping it by the dock. He kicks his shoes off and then takes off his jeans. Evan watches with wide eyes as Eddie runs down the dock and jumps into the water. He watches as he comes up and runs his fingers through his hair to get it out of his face. “You gonna join?” Eddie asked.
Evan's heart rate picked up at the Texans accent and smirk. He toed off his shoes, and took his shirt and pants off, dropping them next to Eddie's. He smirked at the other man and ran down the dock just like he did. As Evan came back up Eddie smiled and then swam away.
He followed after him and splashed some water at him.
“Oh it's on!” He yelled splashing water back at him. This continued for a few minutes until they were a bit tired. The laughing continued as Evan leaned in closer.
They smiled softly at each other as Eddie’s hands found their way to Evan's waist. Evan loosely wrapped his arms around Eddie’s neck. He looked from his blue eyes to his lips and back up. He watched as his face turned a light shade of red in the moonlight. Eddie closed the distance.
If someone told Eddie he'd be spending a night out with a complete stranger, a random man he saw on the side of the road, the same night his wife left, he'd call them insane. Yet here he is kissing a random man. It's unreal, or it should feel unreal.
But he doesn't feel random. He feels so much more real than anyone he's ever met. This entire night doesn't feel random.
The kiss itself is simple. Evan's lips are soft against Eddie’s slightly chapped ones. They pull away, foreheads resting together.
“I really don't want this night to end” Eddie whispered, breaking the silence. Evan straightened up and looked into Eddie’s amber eyes. He shook his head and gave him a small smile.
“It's getting pretty late.” He said softly.
Eddie knows once it's truly morning they'll have to say goodbye and go back to their lives.
“Just a little while longer? Please?” He practically begged as he pulled Evan towards the dock. He pulled himself up onto it and stood up. Holding his hand out he helped Evan up. “Come on, I got some towels in the truck.”
Once they were dried off he pulled a blanket out that he kept for Christopher.
A few minutes later the two men find themselves laying in the bed of the truck on top of the blanket. It's nowhere close to being comfortable, but their shoulders are pushed together and their fingers are interlocked as they look up at the stars.
Evan points at the constellations, explaining their meanings and stories.
“You seem to know a lot about the stars,” Eddie voices quietly. He feels the other man shrug slightly.
“They've always interested me. Every constellation has a different story. They all have a name and a meaning. Most of the time when people think of them, they think of the zodiacs. But there are so many more. Not to mention how cool they are in general. I mean space is so big and there's still so much to discover” He continued to ramble on and Eddie watched him with a fond smile.
“Sorry, I didn't mean to talk so much about them,” Evan said with a shy chuckle. Eddie shook his head.
“It was interesting, I don't mind,” He replied softly. Evan smiled at him and then looked back up at the sky.
“I think the stars are something I'm gonna miss the most when I get to where I'm going.” Eddie looked at him confused.
“What do you mean?” Eddie asked, sitting up. Evan followed and sat up with him.
“You can't see the stars in the city. Too much light pollution. The street lights, neon's on bars and restaurants. Headlights from all the cars. There's just too much man made light. It overpowers the moon and stars.” He explained looking at Eddie sadly. “It's something I've grown to love traveling so much. When I left Pennsylvania, I was driving through all these states that were just trees and mountains, then through the states with fields going on for miles. I fell in love with the quiet, the moonlight, the stars. But I also love being in the city too. I mean I had a lot of fun meeting new people, bar hopping, and karaoke. Going to concerts. Exploring different job opportunities, just trying to figure myself out. But man it's hard to beat the fresh air and sounds of crickets.”
“I will not miss the humidity here though, I can tell you that much” He said laughing as he leaned into Eddie’s space. “What about you, pretty boy? What are you gonna do now that you're single?” Eddie frowned slightly as he wrapped his arms around Evan and held him close. He rested his chin on top of Evan's head.
“Focus on Chris. He needs surgery so I'm gonna have to find another job just to try and save some more, he's my top priority now.” Eddie replied softly. Evan gently rubbed Eddie’s arm and hummed.
“Just remember to take care of yourself too.” Eddie nodded slightly against him. They found themselves laying down again. Evan's head laid on Eddie's chest. They talked for a while before they eventually fell asleep with nothing but crickets chirping around them.
Eddie woke up first. He watched Evan in silence, gently stroking his arm. He turned to the sky and watched as the sun slowly began to rise.
Evan stirred, taking in a deep breath he opened his eyes and sat up slightly.
“Ah,” He chuckled lightly, a soft smile playing on his lips, and a sad look in his eyes, “and this is when the night becomes day, and this” He paused, gesturing between himself and Eddie. “comes to an end” Evan finished, as he slowly sat up. He gently rested his hand against Eddie’s cheek. He leaned into the touch. Evan leaned in and pressed a soft kiss to his lips. “It was nice while it lasted, yeah?” Eddie nodded as he also sat up. He pulled Evan into another kiss.
“Come on cowboy, let's go get you to your car.”
Hand in hand they left the clearing and were back on the road. They sat in a comfortable silence for most of the drive to the gas station. Eddie pulled up to a pump and turned the truck off.
“I got a couple gallon gas jugs in the bed, we can fill them then take them to your car. Then you can take your car back here to fill the tank before you head out.” Evan nodded in return, afraid to speak.
Evan hates goodbyes. He hates that this isn't one of those see you later.
He watched in silence as Eddie filled the jugs. Once filled he secured them and they climbed back into the truck. Eddie didn't hesitate to grab Evan's hand again. They were once again sitting in silence.
“There it is.” 20 minutes later Evan was breaking the silence. Pointing at a black jeep. Eddie did a quick u-turn and parked behind the jeep. They both climbed out and grabbed a jug. Once the gas was emptied into the tank they walked back to the truck together. Evan watched as Eddie put the jugs in the bed of the truck, then turned back to him.
“You can um, follow me back into town and fill the rest of your tank” Evan nodded in return and they split up into their own vehicles. He turned the Jeep on and put it into drive. He took a deep breath as Eddie pulled out in front of him and started down the road.
“I guess this is goodbye” They stood next to the Jeep. Their hands interlocked between them.
“Could it be a see you later?” Evan asked sadly. Eddie leaned forward, leaning their foreheads together. Pressing a soft kiss to his lips he shook his head.
“Unfortunately, I don't think that's how it's gonna go,” He replied. “It was fun while it lasted. Probably the best night I've had in a long time. But I think it'll be better for the both of us if this is goodbye. I mean we'll probably never actually see each other again. You'll forget me as soon as you get to the city” He finished with a chuckle, trying to lighten the mood even a little. It didn't work, obviously.
“I'll never forget you,” Evan replied with a frown. Eddie nodded.
“Yeah, me either” He said as he leaned in for one final kiss. He went to pull away, but before he could, Evan grabbed the back of his neck and pulled him back in, deepening the kiss. Eddie gasped and Evan took the chance to push his tongue in. They pulled away both breathing heavily.
“Gotta kiss you like I mean it, really give you a reason to remember me” Eddie looked at him dazed.
“Definitely won't be forgetting that” Eddie replied with a red face. His jeans are definitely tighter after that.
“Goodbye Eddie” Evan whispered as he opened the door to his jeep. Eddie stepped to the side and waved at him as he started the Jeep.
Evan refused to look back at him as he drove away.
The 11 hour drive from El Paso to Los Angeles was the hardest drive since he left Pennsylvania.
In Los Angeles
Buck stood in line with eight other people waiting to find out what station they'll be assigned to.
It's been about six months since Evan Buckley got to LA. After bartending again for a while, he decided to become a firefighter. There were three other Evan's in his class so he decided to go by Buck.
“Evan Buckley. You have been assigned to station 118” The instructor said pointing him towards the side. With a grin he walked over and stood while the instructor continued assigning everyone else. Once they were dismissed he decided to get some lunch.
His first shift is tomorrow so he'll take the rest of the day to relax.
Buck parks outside of the firehouse and steps out. He grabs his duffle bag and makes his way inside. He walks up the stairs to the loft to see everyone eating at a long table. Everyone turns to him.
“Um, I'm supposed to report to Captain Nash?”
“Captain Nash?” The man at the end of the table asked him before turning to the people next to him. “Do you know Captain Nash?” The first person shook their head. “Do you?” He asked the next person and then turned back to Buck.
“Uh” Buck said quietly pulling the shoulder strap of his bag closer to himself.
“I'm just kidding, welcome to the 118 Evan have a seat” The man said with a smile as he grabbed a plate and started loading it with food. Buck relaxed and let out a small laugh. He set his bag down and started taking a seat.
“Buck, everyone calls me Buck. Is it always like this?” He asked, looking towards a woman with glasses who sat across from him.
“Always,” She replied with a smile.
“As long as Bobby is captain that is” The man next to her said, patting the captain on the shoulder. “I'm Chimney by the way, and this is Hen” He added pointing at the woman with the glasses. Chimney continued to introduce everyone else at the table.
“How did Chimney happen?” Buck asked, confused looking between everyone. Hen gave Chimney a look and started laughing.
“Well what happened was-
In El Paso
Eddie sat at the table helping Christopher with some of his homework. Or he would be if he wasn't spacing out thinking about Evan.
“Daddy, I need help with this problem” Eddie snapped out of it to look at the paper. It was just simple additions and subtraction problems. They just started to learn how to add and subtract single digit numbers, so Chris is still trying to get the hang of it.
After he showed him how to do it, he finished the paper easily.
“Good job buddy! Since you're finished, why don't you go ask grandma for a snack since she's in the kitchen.” Christopher nodded eagerly and grabbed his crutches, quickly making his way towards the kitchen. Eddie watched him fondly.
“You sure do space out quite a lot lately.” Eddie turned to see his sisters walking into the dinning room. Adriana was the one who talked first.
“Yeah, ever since Shannon left you've been so spacy” Sophia added as they both sat down. Eddie rolled his eyes before taking a drink from his water. “And something tells me it has nothing to do about Shannon.”
“I do think I remember mom and dad being upset with you for staying out all night that day” Adriana said with a smirk. “So tell us dear brother, what happened nine months ago that's got you acting so weird. Who's the girl?” She finished with raised eyebrows, as both girls leaned in closer to him.
He looked over the glass of water. With raised eyebrows he looked between the two of them. He smirked and stood up. He downed the glass and set it on the table.
“Who said it was a girl?” He said before he walked away. He let out a laugh as they yelled after him.
“What!” Adriana yelled.
“What the shit Eddie?” Sophia yelled at the same time as they ran after him.
Later that night Eddie sat on the back patio with his sister.
“Okay it's time for you to explain” Eddie looked up at his sister from where he was watching Christopher making smores with his parents by the bonfire.
“I don't know what you're talking about Adri” Eddie replied with a slight smirk.
“Bullshit” Sophia said with a glare. “What did you mean when you said ‘who says it was a girl’, time to spill brother” She added putting air quotes around what Eddie said earlier.
Eddie stayed quiet for a few seconds as he thought about the night he spent with Buck.
They drove for hours just listening to music. Eddie remembered watching Buck as he sang the songs playing with a huge grin on his face. Blue eyes shining under the moonlight. Then they laid under the stars and talked until it was almost morning.
He was pulled out of his thoughts when his sister nudged him.
“Well, as you know, the day Shannon left I was out all night.” They both nodded. “I didn't plan on being out all night. I was just gonna go on a drive and then come back. But as I was driving I saw someone walking on the side of the road. He ran out of gas and was trying to walk into town. I ended up giving him a ride.” Eddie told them and watched them for their reactions.
“Okay so you gave him a ride into town. That doesn't explain why you were out until the next morning.” Sophie said, rolling her eyes.
“Well I kinda decided as we came up to the gas station that I wasn't ready to say goodnight. I mean he seemed to be having fun with the windows down and the music playing. He had this huge smile and his bright blue eyes were shining, I wanted to continue seeing it for a little longer. So I drove past the gas station. At first he thought I was kidnapping him and lying about Chris being my son” Eddie explained with a chuckle. “We drove around for a while until I kinda got lost. But I realized we were near that lake everyone used to sneak off to when we were teens. So we went swimming for a little while before we laid down in the bed of my truck and stargazed and talked until early morning when we eventually fell asleep. Then the sun woke us up and we drove back to town to get gas for his jeep. We said goodbye and that was that” Eddie finished with a shrug. Adriana had a frown on her face and Sophia just looked annoyed.
“Edmundo Diaz. how could you be so stupid?” Sophie asked, crossing her arms. “You said goodbye and that was that? That's all you have to say? Did you at least get his number?” Eddie shook his head with a frown.
“It was one night Soph, and he was on his way to California. We were just two adults who randomly met and decided to hang out for a bit. It didn't mean anything.”
“I mean you spent the entire night with him. it had to mean something.” Adriana added. Sophia nodded aggressively in agreement with their sister. “Eddie, you deserve to be happy. I hope you know that. You and Shannon were forced into a marriage neither of you wanted. You don't have to hide the fact that her leaving hurt, and you also don't have to hide the fact that spending the night with this mystery man meant something to you. Saying it meant nothing kinda seems unfair, because it's obvious it meant something to you.”
“I mean how often do you purposely drive away with a stranger because you're ‘not ready to say goodbye’” Sophie said using air quotes.
“Why do you keep using air quotes?” Eddie mumbled, trying to change the subject.
“Don't change the subject” She snapped in return smacking his shoulder.
“Did you at least get his name?” Adriana questioned.
“Evan.” Eddie replied with a soft smile.
“Evan?” Sophia trailed off, gesturing for him to continue. Eddie looked at her confused. “Does he have a last name?” She asked slowly.
“Um probably, he only told me Evan, though.” Adriana facepalmed and Sophie threw her head back and groaned. Adriana stood up and started walking towards Christopher and their parents, mumbling something about Eddie being an idiot. Sophia followed and Eddie was alone once again.
Eddie leaned his head back and looked up at the stars. Eddie thought back to one of the conversations from that night.
“you can't see the stars in the city, too much light pollution”
“I'll look at them for you” Eddie whispered to himself as he continued to look at the stars.
Buck snuck up to the roof of the fire house and looked up at the sky. The moon was bright but the stars were few and dull. There were a couple bright ones but nowhere as many as he could see when he was in El Paso.
Buck had been thinking about that night a lot more the last few weeks. If he's being completely honest he's thought about it a lot since he drove away from that gas station.
He couldn't get Eddie out of his head. Often replaying the conversations in his head. Some were simple like what Eddie was short for.
“Oh come on, just tell me!” Evan said laughing, pushing Eddie's shoulder slightly. Eddie laughed lightly in return.
“No, I told you to guess”
“Fine. Edward?”
“No,” Eddie said with a smirk.
“Edwardo?”
“You can't just add an o to the end.”
“I suck at names, I give up.” Evan said, crossing his arms over his chest with a pout. Eddie smiled and propped himself up on one of his arms. He looked down at Evan before leaning in for a kiss.
“You look kinda cute when you pout.” Evan blushed and looked away.
He never did find out what Eddie was short for.
Some of the other conversations ended up being a little harder.
“I wish my name was a name that could have a nickname” Evan said sadly. Eddie looked at him confused.
“Why's that?”
“I never really liked my name. It's always been said with so much disappointment or annoyance behind it. Besides my sister. When she says it, it's filled with kindness. Filled with fondness. I haven't talked to her in two years.” He finished looking at the sky.
Evan could feel Eddie looking at him. He sighed quietly as Eddie reached over and stroked his cheek gently. He turned towards him again and leaned in, kissing him softly.
Buck looked out at the city lights, shining brightly. Car horns could be heard in the distance. Then the sounds of the alarm were going off. Dropping his head towards his chest and letting out a groan he ran downstairs as quick as he could.
Almost being left behind, he quickly jumped into the engine.
“You were almost late Buck, you have to be quicker” Bobby said, turning slightly to look at the younger man.
“Sorry cap, won't happen again.” Buck mumbled in return as he leaned his head against the window and ignored the concerned looks from everyone.
1 year later
Buck's shield ceremony was a tad depressing. It was just the 118 and Sargent Athena Grant present. Buck and Athena had a bumpy beginning but after Buck fucked around and learned a couple lessons their relationship changed for the better.
“I have to say Buck, your first few months made me question if we'd get here. but I'm proud of you and the growth you've shown” Hen said, patting his shoulder. Buck felt his face heat up and he smiled shyly back at her.
“Yeah, stealing the fire truck to hookup with someone, and hooking up with people you met on calls definitely wasn't the smartest thing to do, but I'm glad you learned your lesson and got to come back. You're a good firefighter” Chimney added.
“I've definitely learned my lesson” Buck replied as he looked at Bobby who had a proud smile on his face.
“I'm sorry your ceremony isn't something bigger kid but we're all proud of you”
“Thanks cap, and thank you for the second chance, even though I really didn't deserve it.” Buck replied, scratching the back of his neck sheepishly.
The beginning of his probationary year was spent being reckless and hotheaded. He slept around with anyone who would give him the time. He stole the fire truck once to hook up with someone he met on a dating app. He snuck a girl from a call on the roof where Bobby caught them and then fired him.
After helping Athena catch a guy who was robbing a house and tried to hurt the little girl who was in the house, he got his job back. After that he started to calm down with the hook ups.
He knew they were stupid decisions. He just wanted a distraction.
A distraction from the soft brown eyes, and a smile that made his heart melt. The slight Texan accent. Eddie was such a constant thought in Buck's mind. He tried to find anything to just not think about the man.
Since his ceremony was so small they just had a small lunch and talked for a while before Bobby put them back online.
Eddie looked out at the front yard of his childhood home. Christopher was leaning against him.
“You want to go on an adventure with me?” Eddie asked, breaking the comfortable silence. Chris looked up at his father.
“What kind of adventure?”
“A big one, all the way in California” His eyes grew big and he had a huge smile plastered on his face.
“Can we see mom?”
“Maybe, I'll get a hold of her, try to make some plans.” Eddie answered honestly. He knows Shannon leaving wasn't just because of her mom being sick. The first few years of Christopher's life were hard on her. After his second tour and being sent home permanently, he tried to make up for it but they both realized it just wasn't working. Shannon filed for divorce and she gave Eddie custody. She just needed some time, is what she said.
A week later Eddie had all his stuff in a trailer with movers taking it to a small house in LA. He packed Chris into the back seat with some snacks before climbing into the front seat. He looked at his son in the rearview mirror.
“Ready buddy?” Chris nodded eagerly.
“Ready dad” Eddie smiled at him and put the truck in drive before he pulled away from his childhood home.
“I just don't understand why we need another member on the team,” Buck said, as he flopped down next to Hen. She rolled her eyes and handed him a controller as she set up a game.
“Bobby already told us why, we need one more person to complete the team” She replied as the game started.
“He's definitely trying to find a partner for you,” Chimney added as he sat in the chair next to the couch as he shoved a handful of popcorn I'm his mouth. “Plus it's been a few months since you graduated from being a probie, so it's only natural for Cap to want to look at the new candidates.”
The thought of someone new coming to the team makes Buck's skin crawl. Some random person coming in and changing the family dynamic the team already has. Changing his family dynamics. Buck can't take it. This team is all he has, his shield ceremony was proof of that.
“Yeah only natural” Buck muttered as he slouched more into the couch. Hen and Chim looked at each other confused. Hen paused the game and turned towards him.
“Okay what's your deal?” She asked with a raised eyebrow.
“I don't have a deal” He replied, refusing to look at either of them.
“Uh yeah you do.” Chim added as he set the bowl down on the coffee table. Buck stayed silent.
“I know it can be hard to trust people in this line of work. It's not easy, that's for sure. I don't blame you for not wanting a change like this, but Bobby isn't going to pick just anyone. You know that right Buck?” Hen asked gently, resting her hand on his shoulder. He looked over at her. “He's going to pick someone who will be a good addition. And it's okay not to trust newcomers immediately”
“Yeah you think we trusted you right away?” Chim asked with a smirk. Both Hen and Buck glared at him. “Okay, okay, I'm only joking. You were top of your class and immediately showed you were capable. but you're still young and definitely a little reckless, so we were a little against you at first. Plus the new recruits still have like three months before they get assigned. Just try to have an open mind about it man.” Buck sighed.
“I'll try I guess” He muttered before setting the controller on the table and walking to the kitchen. He tried his best to ignore the looks from his friends.
Buck walked into work a few months later to see Bobby, Hen, and Chim talking.
“-top of his class” He walked up to the group stopping to stand next to Chimney as Bobby continued. “He was a medic in the army, and was awarded a silver medal” Buck frowned.
“Who?” He asked, looking between all three of them. Chim and Hen gave each other looks.
“Our new probie, He likes to be called eight-pack” Bobby replied with a smile as he crossed his arms and looked towards the locker room.
“Oh damn, that's a beautiful man” Chim said
“Yeah, and I like girls,” Hen added with wide eyes. Buck slowly turned around and watched as the new guy pulled his t-shirt off to change into his uniform and- wait a minute.
Buck's heart started to beat faster. He felt his eyes grow wide.
I definitely know those abs
Buck thought to himself as he slowly looked up towards the man's face. He watched as he finished putting on his uniform.
“Eddie, come meet the team,” Bobby called out.
Eddie
oh god it's him, it's really him.
Buck turned towards the loft and ran away.
“What, where are you going?” He heard Chim yell as he ran up the stairs, taking two at a time. Buck listened to Bobby introduce everyone as he paced by the island counter. The few firefighters who were up there with him looked at him strangely.
“Not sure why Buck left but follow me I'll take you to meet him” Buck heard Bobby say as the group walked towards the stairs.
“Oh god” Buck said quietly as the panic really set in.
“I cant believe you trusted me enough to get in the truck” Evan looked at Eddie as he looked out at the open road. They were almost to the gas station. “I mean most people would see a truck pull up when it's getting dark out and try to run away. Or decline a ride. but you trusted me and slid right into my dusty seat and I ended up having one of the best nights of my life.” Eddie finally looked at him. “I really didn't want this night to end” He said sadly. They both looked towards the road. The gas station in view now. Evan reached over and grabbed Eddie's free hand.
“I didn't want it to end either” He whispered.
“Buck, come meet our newest member.” Bobby said with excitement laced in his voice. Buck's back was currently facing them. He slowly turned around and looked at Eddie.
“Hey, I'm-” He paused as he looked at Buck. His eyes grew wide and his cheeks turned a light shade of red. “Eddie” He finished holding his hand out for him to shake.
“Buck” He replied softly, grabbing Eddie's hand and shaking slightly. Buck noticed the weird looks the other three were giving them and he pulled away. Buck stepped back. “I'm gonna um go clean the truck, yeah! I'll go clean the truck” He said loudly and rushed down the stairs.
Eddie stood in silence, his hand still out where Evan- no Buck, left it.
“Um what was that all about?” Chimney asked, confused. Eddie ignored him and pulled out his phone.
“Please excuse me” He replied as he turned away from them. The captain left to talk to Buck and Chimney and Hen looked at each other, before deciding to watch Eddie.
He ignored them both and opened the groupchat his sisters forced him into.
Eddie: You guys are never gonna believe what just happened.
Sophia: What?
Adriana: ????
Eddie: I just started at my new fire station right?
Well guess what
Sophia: Dude what!!!
Adriana: Bitch if you don't just say it I swear,
I'll come to LA to beat your ass
Sophia: ^^
Eddie: He's here
Sophia: He?
Adriana: Evan?
Sophia: OMG EVAN?? IS IT EVAN??
Eddie: YES HES FUCKING HERE
He works here
at this station
Adriana: Oh my god, Eddie!!!! this is great news!!!
Eddie had to leave the conversation there as the bell rang.
“Ready for your first call?” Chim asked as they all ran down stairs. Eddie was the last to climb into the truck. He found himself sitting across from Buck. Hen, Chimney, and Bobby were having a conversation but he wasn't paying attention, too busy looking at the man who's been on his mind for months.
He's really here. I finally get to see him again.
Eddie thinks to himself.
“What about you Eddie?” Eddie’s attention snapped to Chimney as he asked.
“What?”
“We were talking about our partners, do you have anyone special?” Hen asked him. Eddie looked back at Buck who is now looking at him. A questioning look in his eyes.
“I don't know” He paused. “Maybe” He added with a smirk as Buck's cheeks flushed a light red.
The conversation ended as they pulled up to the scene. Buck was out of the truck at light speed.
Their shift was quiet after that call, so everyone caught up on the chores that needed done. The engine was parked outside so it could be washed. Eddie looked out the big bay door as Buck scrubbed the side with soapy water.
He slowly approached the other man, stopping in front of him.
“Evan” He said as he stood in front of him. Buck glanced at him and continued cleaning. “I mean you go by Buck now.” Eddie quickly added as he awkwardly looked at the ground.
“What do you want, Eddie?” Buck asked as he continued scrubbing the firetruck.
“I want you to stop avoiding me” Eddie replied with a slight glare as he crossed his arms. Buck glanced behind Eddie to see Hen and Chim trying to spy. He rolled his eyes and walked around to the other side where no one could see. Eddie frowned and followed after him.
“I'm not avoiding you” Buck finally replied as he started scrubbing the other side. Eddie sighed in return.
“You saw me and ran away, and you've barely said a thing all shift.”
“I don't know what you expect me to do man.” Buck replied, refusing to look at him.
“I've had my tongue down your throat, don't call me man” Eddie said giving him an unimpressed look. Buck's cheeks grew a light shade of red.
“Would you stop?” He whispered and looked around to see if anyone was listening. “It was one night Eddie. And no one knows about it.” He added as he began rinsing all the soap off the engine. Eddie followed him as he walked around to get to the other side.
“Are you ashamed or something?” Eddie asked as his heart started beating faster.
“What? no it's not, it's not like that” Buck replied with a frown. “It's just-” He was cut off as the bell rang in the station. Chimney and Hen were running over with Buck and Eddie’s gear. They handed them their respective gear and climbed into the truck.
“Did that night mean anything to you?” Eddie asked as he finished putting his on and grabbed the handle to climb in. Buck looked at him shocked and watched him disappear into the firetruck.
“It meant everything” Buck whispered and quickly jumped in before the truck left.
They ignored each other for the rest of the shift, only talking when they absolutely had to. It was later in the day, they hadn't gotten a call in a few hours so everyone was relaxing. Hen and Chimney were playing Mario Kart on the couch. Eddie was watching from the chair eating some popcorn. Bobby was sitting on one of the bar stools at the island doing some paperwork.
Buck walked and grabbed the small speaker that they use on calm days when the only sounds in the station are video games or hushed conversations. He connected his phone and hit shuffle on a random Playlist. The music played softly as he wiped down the counters.
He was half way done loading the dishwasher when a tune started. He froze mid rinse on a bowl and listened as the song played.
“Used to spend my nights out in a bar a room, liquor was the only love I've know”
Buck looked over to where Eddie sat in the chair. He was sitting sideways. His legs swung over the side of the chair, a bowl of popcorn in his lap. His hand was frozen in front of his mouth with a handful of popcorn. His eyes met Bucks as the song continued. Buck thought back to the night they met in El Paso.
Evan and Eddie were laying in the bed of Eddie’s truck in a comfortable silence. They looked up at the stars, fingers intertwined. Music played softly from Eddie’s phone.
The familiar tune of ‘Tennessee Whiskey’ by Chris Stapleton began to play. Eddie looked over as a quiet gasp came from Evan's direction.
“I love this song” He said as he sat up. Evan made his way out of the truck and held his hand out to Eddie. “Come dance with me,” He said with a smile. His blue eyes almost sparked in the moonlight. The small lantern Eddie found in his back seat barely lighting up the area. Just enough that they could see in front of them. Eddie doesn't think he's ever been obsessed with anything in his life. But those bright blue eyes might just change that for him.
Eddie smiled back and got down from the truck. He stepped in front of Evan and grabbed one of his hands, his other hand landing on his waist. Evan laid his free hand on Eddie's shoulder. The two swayed together as the song continued.
“You're as smooth as Tennessee Whiskey”
Evan moved his arm and wrapped it around Eddie’s shoulder. Pulling him closer.
Eddie moved his other hand to wrap around Evan's waist. They stood in a hug as they swayed slightly.
“You're as sweet as strawberry wine. You're as warm as a glass of brandy”
Buck looked away from Eddie and at the running water in the sink as the song continued.
“And honey, I stay stoned on your love, all the time”
Buck set the bowl into the dishwasher and shut off the water. He put soap in the dishwasher and started it. He then looked back at Eddie who was silently watching him while slowly eating his popcorn.
“I'm gonna go downstairs.” Was all he said as he grabbed his phone and disconnected the speaker. He heard Bobby say something about how he left clean dishes on the counter, but he just ignored him. Buck made his way to the in house gym and sat on one of the benches. He ran his hands through his hair letting out a long sigh.
“I think it's safe to assume that song reminded you of that night too.” Buck looked up to see Eddie standing next to the punching bag.
“It meant everything,” Was all Buck said. Completely ignoring what Eddie said, he continued. “Earlier, you asked if that night meant anything to me. It meant everything to me. It was the first time in so long I felt wanted. It felt like it could've been something. But I was going to LA and you had to go home to your son. And I was never supposed to see you again. I was supposed to sleep around until I forgot about you, or until I met someone to make me forget. But I couldn't. It never worked. And then you walked in here, like you owned the place. And suddenly that night came back full force, and I had to act like it didn't happen. But it did, and I think about it every fucking day. I can't get you out of my head. And you had the nerve to ask if it meant anything at all.” Buck stood up and stepped closer to Eddie. “Fuck Eddie it's all I've been thinking about for months. You're everything. It was one night and I felt like I've known you my entire life. I felt so free, so happy. I'd never felt that before. You made me feel alive, like I had nothing to worry about. It was one of the best nights of my life and I'd do anyth-”
Eddie moved quickly towards Buck. Grabbing him by the back of his neck, cutting him off with a rough kiss.
“I wished every day that you turned around, that you would have stayed,” Eddie whispered as he pulled away. Buck looked at him with furrowed eyebrows. He shook his head slightly.
“I wanted to, so bad. I almost did.” He replied, resting his forehead against Eddie’s. “I thought it would be easier to just walk away, but it wasn't. It was complete hell. You're all I could think about the entire drive to LA, all I've thought about for months.” He paused, brushing his nose against Eddie’s. “I honestly thought I'd never see you again.”
“Well you thought wrong apparently” Eddie chuckled as he pulled away to look into bright blue eyes. Buck laughed lightly in return and shook his head. “Let me take you on a date tonight.”
“I'd like that,” Buck replied with a smirk.
“I'm gonna have to see you two in my office.” Both men turned towards their captain's voice. Bobby stood between Hen and Chim with a smile on his face. Hen had her arms crossed with a smirk but gave them a thumbs up. Chimney rolled his eyes.
“What is even happening, they hated each other all day” Both men laughed at Chimney’s confusion. As they walked towards Bobby's office the bell rang.
“Saved by the bell?” Buck asked jokingly, shrugging his shoulders.
Eddie: so you were right
Sophia: ???
Adriana: Who was right?
Eddie: You, you said it was
great news that buck worked at the station
Sophia: Who the fuck is Buck??
Adriana: lmao, but yeah who is Buck?
Eddie: Buck is Evan, he goes by
Buck now. ANYWAY
we're going on a date!!
Sophia: WHAT??!
Adriana: Well that was quick
How'd you manage that?
Eddie: we had some down time
during our shift and we played
some music while he did the dishes.
Tennessee Whiskey started
playing and he left the room so
I followed and we talked about it.
Adriana: and what is the
significance of that song???
Sophia: yeah, why'd he leave
because of a song?
Eddie: we danced to it the
night we spent together
Sophia: omg
Adriana: damn Eddie,
you're living your own
romance movie 💀
Eddie: I'm insanely happy
right now, I never thought
I'd see him again
Adriana: we're happy for you bro
sophia: ^^
Eddie closed the group chat with his sisters, and turned his phone off. He looked towards his son as he worked on his homework.
“Hey buddy, are you ready to go spend the night with bisabuela?” Chris looked up at him with a wide smile, and nodded excitedly.
Eddie followed Chris to his room and helped him pack an overnight bag.
Once his bag was packed they made their way outside. After locking the door, Eddie helped Christopher into his truck.
“We had to take a reading test, so we took turns sitting with the teacher and reading a book to her.” Eddie looked at Chris through the rearview mirror while he talked about his day at school. “She said I'm reading above my grade level!” He added, excitedly with a huge grin.
“Really! that's so cool buddy, I'm proud of you” Eddie said equally excited as he pulled into Abuela's driveway. He turned the car off and walked around to help Chris out. Once he was out he excitedly ran towards his grandmother as fast as he could. She pulled him into a hug as they both smiled. Eddie walked up with his bag and followed them inside. “He's got pajamas and clothes for tomorrow. Some Legos and books” He put the backpack on the back of one of the kitchen chairs and turned back towards the door. “I'll get him tomorrow afternoon, just call if you need anything” Eddie quickly kissed Abuela's cheek and the top of Christopher's head and started walking towards the door.
“Edmundo? What's the hurry? stay for dinner.” Eddie smiled at her.
“Sorry Abuela, but I have a date. I'll stay for lunch tomorrow, promise.” She looked at him surprised but he ran out before she could question him any further.
The drive to Buck's apartment didn't take long. Traffic was on Eddie's side for once. He parked and turned off the engine. He stepped out and closed the door, locking it. He looked towards the apartment building, suddenly feeling nervous. He wiped his sweaty hands on his jeans and took a deep breath before making his way into the building.
He looked around the hallway as he knocked on the door. A grin broke out on his face as Buck opened the door.
“Hi,” Buck said spftly as he stepped out. He closed the door and locked it. Eddie held his hand out and Buck grabbed it. They intertwined their fingers as they got onto the elevator.
“We got about a bit of a drive to the place but traffic isn't terrible right now so it shouldn’t take long.” Eddie said as the doors closed.
“Where are we going?” Buck asked, looking towards Eddie.
“That is a surprise” Eddie replied as the elevator stopped and the doors opened. He pulled Buck towards the exit and to his truck. He opened the passenger door for him and smiled as Buck looked at him, slightly shocked.
“What a gentleman.” Eddie walked around and got into the driver seat. He buckled up and started the engine.
A little over an hour later they arrived at Leo Carrillo State Park. Eddie parked in the designated parking.
“Looks like it's pretty empty today.” Eddie said as they both got out of the truck. Buck started walking towards the beach. “Where are you going pretty boy?” Eddie asked as he pulled the tailgate down and started to roll the bed cover up. He tied it off so it would stay out of the way. Buck turned around and his jaw dropped slightly as he saw the set up in the truck.
There was an air mattress with blankets and pillows. There were some battery powered fairy lights along the sides. He leaned over and turned them on before walking to the back seat and pulling out a small cooler. There were a couple beers and some water. As well as some sandwiches and snacks.
“When did you even do all of this?” Buck asked as they both climbed into the back.
“When we got off shift. I had some time before Chris got out of school. Kinda figured an air mattress would be a bit more comfortable than it was when we did this in El Paso. Although the park closes at 10 so we'll have to leave before then. But, we'll have enough time to watch the sunset, and look at the stars.” Eddie explained as he laid back, he laid on his side and leaned on his elbow looking up at Buck. Buck looked back at Eddie with wide eyes. Eddie smiled as he connected his phone to a speaker and hit play on a country playlist and let it play quietly in the background.
“Are you recreating the night we met?” He asked, chuckling. Eddie shrugged as he watched Buck lay down next to him. He leaned on his elbow facing Eddie.
“I remembered you saying how you were gonna miss seeing the stars. I didn't know if you found any places to go to. But I did a bunch of Google searches, while on shift so I could find places that were outside. This one was kinda close to where we live. I don't know, I thought you'd enjoy it.” Eddie replied looking down as he started to feel a little insecure. He felt Buck's hand gently on his cheeks as he made him look at him.
“I love it, Eds.” Buck said as he pulled Eddie into a kiss.
I Want Crazy by Hunter Hayes started playing softly as they continued talking.
“What are the odds that we met again so soon?” Buck asked as he played with the hair at the base of Eddie’s head.
“I never thought I'd see you. I mean I knew that you were heading to California. But I didn't know you were going to LA. I probably would have been more hopeful if I'd known where exactly in California you were going.”
“Oh yeah, your ex wife lives in LA right?” Eddie nodded in return as he looked at Buck. “I don't care about the odds, honestly. I'm just glad they were in our favor.” He added with a smile. Eddie smirked back and leaned into a kiss.
“I'm excited to see where this goes.” Eddie replied as they both turned to watch the sunset. They sat in a comfortable silence until the sky went dark and the stars began to come out. Eddie sat up and turned the fairy lights off before laying back down. He laid his head onto Buck's shoulder, and Buck wrapped his arm around Eddie. Buck started to point out different constellations and tell their story.
After a while Eddie sat up and opened the cooler. He grabbed two beers and the sandwiches. He handed one of each to Buck as he sat up.
“Thank you” He said quietly as he pulled the sandwich out of the baggy. They ate and listened to the music as it played softly. “We're not gonna drive around until 3 am again are we?” Eddie looked at Buck like he was insane.
“Just because the traffic was nice to us on the way here does not mean I want to test it until 3 am” Eddie replied, giving him a look of disbelief. Buck let out a laugh then took a drink of beer. After they finished their food and beer, they both drank some water and moved to sit on the tailgate. They watched as the last car left the parking lot.
Buck jumped down as the beginning of Die A Happy Man by Thomas Rhett started playing.
“Let's add another song to the list of ones we dance to” Eddie smiled and jumped down grabbing Buck's outstretched hand.
Buck chuckled as the song mentioned dancing under the stars just like they were doing.
Then we danced in the dark under September stars in the pourin' rain
And I know that I can't ever tell you enough
That all I need in this life is your crazy love
If I never get to see the Northern Lights
Or if I never get to see the Eiffel Tower at night
They swayed together by the truck as the song continued.
Oh if all I got is your hand in my hand
Buck held Eddie’s hand in his as he spun him around a little then pulled him back towards his chest.
Baby I could die a happy man
By the end of the song they were both high off the happiness of each other. The next song played as Buck leaned his forehead against Eddie’s.
“We should probably leave soon.” Buck whispered. Eddie nodded slightly before leaning in to a kiss. Buck reached up and wrapped one hand on the back of Eddie’s neck. The other hand rested on his cheek, kissing him deeper. Eddie’s hands rested on Buck's hips and he pulled him closer.
Buck pulled away enough to say “Okay let's really take this back to my place.” Eddie chuckled and pulled away fully. They packed up the truck and made the hour drive to Buck's loft.
Later when they're laying in Buck's bed in each other's arms, in nothing but their boxers, in a comfortable silence. Eddie breaks the silence.
“I'm so glad you trusted me to slide into my dusty truck. I mean a complete stranger at night and you got into my car like you knew me.” Eddie said, looking at Buck.
“If I'm being completely honest, you just felt safe. And I'm so glad I did. I feel like I've known you for years. I can't imagine life with you not in it now. I can't wait to see where this goes.” Eddie smiled as he moved to straddle Buck. He leaned down, kissing Buck for the millionth time that night.
“Ready for round two?” He asked as he pulled back. Buck flipped them over.
“Absolutely” He replied, leaning down till his lips met Eddie’s neck.