Work Text:
Buck looked at Tommy. Lacing their fingers together as they walked through the Christmas tree lot. Buck trying to spot the perfect tree.
"Are you serious, you never had a tree growing up?" Buck asked Tommy. Shocked by this revelation.
"Never. My parents didn't see it as necessary. It was just another way for people to waste money on a made-up holiday."
"Thomas Kinard, that is quite possibly the saddest thing I have ever heard come out of that sexy mouth of yours." Buck said before giving Tommy a quick kiss.
Tommy laughed, eyes crinkling. "So, you're telling me, you had a tree every year?"
"Yeah of course. I mean, yeah, my parents were messed up, and things were never perfect. But at Christmas time I always remember the way my mom would deck the halls. And Christmas day, that was one of the best days we ever had growing up."
"Okay, now who's saying sad things."
"Don't believe me? Ask Maddie. She was there. I haven't had a tree up in years though. I'm always working. Even the one Christmas I spent with Taylor; I didn't have a tree."
"So, why are we here Evan? We both work Christmas day."
"Because it's special, Tommy. Our first Christmas together. I want to celebrate that. Even at nine a clock at night when your shift is over."
"Yeah, about that." Tommy started.
"No, Tommy. Come on, really?"
"Yeah, got the confirmed schedule. I'll be on a forty-eight starting six am Christmas eve."
Buck looked like he could burst into tears. Tommy hated that look of disappointment on his face.
“Hey, come here.” Tommy whispered, pulling Buck into his arms. “I’m sorry Evan. I tried. Too many people requested the day off several months ago. I didn’t know I would be here with you. I never take the holidays off.”
“I get it. It’s fine. I’ll be fine.” Buck pulled back from his embrace and tried to smile.
“I hate how disappointed you look right now. I don’t ever want to disappoint you Evan.”
“I’m not. I’m just a little sad. I promise I’ll be fine Tommy. Come on, let’s go get lunch or something.” Buck went to start walking away and Tommy grabbed hold of his hand and pulled him back.
“No. We’re here. I’m buying my boyfriend a tree and all the decorations for us to decorate it together for our first Christmas together.” Tommy kissed the frown Buck had on his face.
“You don’t have to do that. It’ll just go to was….”
Tommy placed his fingers under Buck’s chin and brought him in for another kiss.
“You know, you can’t just keep stopping me from talking by kiss…” Tommy did it again.
“Seriously, Tommy. You can’t keep doing that when I’m upse….” And again. Tommy laughing against Buck’s lips. Buck finally responding and taking Tommy by surprise, lacing his fingers into Tommy’s hair, and resting a hand on Tommy’s waist pulling their bodies closer together.
Tommy moaned into the kiss. “Two can play that game Kinard.” Buck smirked when they broke apart.
“Will you just let me buy you a damn tree now Evan?”
Buck shrugged his shoulders and nodded his head. Finally conceding to Tommy’s request to buy the tree. “If you insist.”
They continued their walk through the tree lot, Buck spotting the perfect tree for the loft. He excitedly stood by Tommy as he paid for it and loaded it on top of Buck’s jeep.
On the drive back to Buck’s loft, he couldn’t stop staring at Tommy as he drove them home.
“What?” Asked Tommy, smiling.
“You’re sexy as fuck. And that, back there, watching you load the tree…” Buck placed his hand against Tommy’s thigh not being afraid to slowly inch his way up little by little. “How long do you think the tree can last without being in water?”
“I don’t know. I’ll just carry it upstairs when we get there. Maybe tease you a little bit more.”
Buck moaned and closed his eyes. “That, let’s do that. Yes.”
Buck sat in the 118 kitchen the next morning waiting for his shift to start. His mind drifting back the previous night. They decorated the tree, eventually. And Tommy even marked the occasion by taking pictures of them together in front of it. Buck sat scrolling through the pictures as he remembered.
“What’s eating you this morning Buck?” Hen asked as she made her way into the kitchen area.
“Oh, not what. Who.” Eddie said indicating to Buck’s phone as it sat on a picture of them kissing in front of their tree.
Hen, walked over to look. “Oh, nope. Nope I don’t want to know. You keep your sex life to yourself this time Buck. We’ve gotten plenty of it in the past.”
“Oh, don’t you worry. This is one time I feel more than happy to keep it to myself.” Eddie and Hen looked at each other in shock.
Eddie placed his hand on Buck’s forehead like he would a sick child. “You feeling ok buddy?”
Buck smacked his hand away. “I’m feeling fine. Better than fine actually. I know I’ve blasted my sex life all over the station in the past. But sex with woman, especially back then, was just that. Just Sex. With Tommy, It’s different. It’s special. And I’m not talking like, because it’s with a guy. I am not ashamed to talk about it. But it’s so different and special and it somehow means more than past experiences.”
“Wow, Buck. That’s very mature of you.”
“Hey, what can I say? I finally found what I’ve been looking for I guess.”
“Buckaroo growing up so fast.” Chim said as he came into the room.
“I hate every single one of you.”
They all laughed, and to Buck’s relief the conversation moved on.
“What is everyone doing for Christmas?” Chim asked.
“You mean after work? Or did you forget my family will be at your family’s house that morning? Mara is so excited to see Jee and Maddie.”
“No, I didn’t. I was just asking in general.”
“Tommy has to work a forty-eight starting Christmas eve. I don’t know what we are going to do. Probably just have Christmas the day after since we should both be off.”
“Damn, Buck. That sucks. I’m sorry. Your first Christmas together too.”
“Perks of the job, right? We knew what we were signing up for both being firefighters.”
“Yeah, but still. You were so excited for this.”
“I still am, it’ll just be a little different than I had originally planned that’s all.” Buck said. Wistfully thinking about what he could do to make the day special.
Buck was on his way home after his shift ended. Still trying to think of how to make Christmas special for him and Tommy. He was pulled from his thoughts by his phone ringing and Tommy’s name being announced over the cars Bluetooth.
Still a little distracted, he hit the answer button. “Hello?”
“Evan? What’s wrong?”
“Nothing. Just driving home. How was your day?”
“I’m glad it’s over. I missed you today.”
“Yeah. Uh, missed you too.”
“That sounds convincing. Are you okay?”
“Yeah. I’m good babe. Just ready to get home. Long day.”
“Hmm, are you hungry? I have dinner in the oven.”
“Sounds good. Be home soon.” Buck heard Tommy mummer his goodbye and Buck disconnected the phone a plan finally formulating, Buck got a bit excited.
Pulling into his apartment complex, Buck pulled his phone from the holder and pulled up his texts. Selecting the names, he started a new group text message.
Buck- I need your help! Tommy has to work a 48 on Christmas Eve/Day. I want to surprise him on shift. Do either of you work on Christmas day?
Lucy- Only working Christmas eve. What do you have in mind Buck?
Styles- Not working at all. I was supposed to be going to my family’s place in Minnesota, but plans changed. I’m so down for helping. What do you need bro?
Buck- I want to decorate Harbor, how are the decorations now? What will we need? I also want to cook dinner. I’ll get Bobby to help me there. Tell me how many people are on shift that day so I can plan accordingly.
Lucy- Decorations are shit. We may have an old piece of garland that has been used since the 1800’s.
Styles- I have a ton of shit I can bring over. My mom bought me stuff to decorate my apartment, but she got way too much.
Buck- Okay. Great! Luce, can you check the schedule. I’ll talk to Bobby. Styles, you can get decorations. I want the biggest damn tree you can find. But I don’t want to get it until it is closer to Christmas day. Thoughts on that?
Styles- I’ll get one from the lot and set it up. Keep it watered until we’re ready to move it. I got you bro.
Lucy- Ohhhh, this is a plan. So, what are we calling this? Operation Buck/Tommy Christmas?
Lucy- Oh no! A very merry Kinley Christmas?
Styles- No! Operation Firefly Christmas
Lucy- Not bad. No, I got it. Operation Merry Christmas Tevan?’
Lucy-What are your thoughts, Buck?
Buck- Those are all ridiculous. I don’t even understand what is happening right now. I have to go before Tommy sends out a search party. Talk soon.
Buck put his phone in his pocket while climbing out of the car. He looked up and saw Tommy standing at the entrance to the building.
“I was just about to come find you. Or call 9-1-1. What were you doing?”
Buck walked to Tommy and kissed him. “I was looking at your Christmas gift.” He wasn’t lying. Not really.
“Ah, you don’t have to get me anything, Evan.”
“So, you keep saying. But I’m still doing it anyway.”
“Well in that case. What’d you get me?”
“Nice try Thomas, I am very good at keeping secrets. I can take them to my grave if I need to.”
Tommy made a faux disappointed face. “Fine. Are you hungry?”
“Starving.” Buck kissed Tommy again. Moving, they begin walking into his apartment together. “What’d you get me?”
Tommy laughed, shaking his head. “I will give you a run for your money on secrets, Evan.” Tommy winked at him.
Tommy stood and peered at the selection in front of him. He had to take a deep breath, because this was about to be the most important purchase of his life.
He had to make sure it was the right choice. There was one that kept catching his eye, going back to it, he picked it up and inspected it further. Smiling, he could definitely see Evan’s face when he gave it to him on Christmas.
Looking up he smiled and handed it over to the salesman. “This one.”
“Oh, excellent choice. She’s going to love it on you.” The older man said.
“Uh, He. And it’s for him. I’m going to propose to my boyfriend on Christmas day.” Tommy smiled as he was checked out.
“Well, son, for what it’s worth hold onto that love for those of us who lost or never had it.” The older man said, winking at Tommy with a small wishful smile on his face.
“Yes sir, I intend to do just that.” The older man handed Tommy his bag and Tommy turned and walked out of the jewelry store. His heart content with this decision. He had never thought this was something he would be allowed to have. So, Tommy had every intention to grab it with both hands and not let it go.
Christmas couldn’t come soon enough. All Tommy had to do now was figure out a way to get Evan to Harbor so he was able to actually purpose on Christmas day. Because he didn’t want to wait a minute longer than he had to.
Sitting in his truck, Tommy pulled out his phone and pulled up his text messages.
Tommy- Hey, are you working on Christmas day?
Eddie- No. But I heard you are. Bro, not a good move.
Tommy- Yeah, except I accepted this shift long before Evan was around, so not a move I could have avoided. Look, I need some help. Hang on, I’m adding Hen in here.
Tommy- Hen, I need your and Eddie’s help.
Tommy snapped a picture of the ring and sent it to the new group chat he created.
Hen- What? OMG TOMMY!
Eddie- No way. Are you serious?
Tommy- I am so serious. I need help getting him to the station on Christmas day. I wanted to do it at the loft, but I won’t be off until the 26th. I know, Eddie, not a good move. Can you guys just help me out?
Hen- We’ll figure it out.
Eddie- We got you. No worries.
Tommy released the breath he didn’t know he had been holding. He could count on Hen and Eddie to get Evan there. And Tommy already knew his Captain would give him some time to do it, even if a call came in.
‘Two days Kinard. You got two days.’ Tommy said to himself. Tommy opened the canter console and unlocked the compartment inside, placing the ring box in he closed and locked it up once again. Away from prying boyfriends, he thought and laughed as he started the truck and pulled out. Heading to finish purchasing Evan’s other Christmas gifts.
Tommy collapsed on his bed as soon as he got home. Hearing a very distinct chuckle coming from in front of him. Tommy turned his head and caught sight of the most beautiful person he could imagine.
“Evan? When did you get here? I thought you were working today?”
“I’ve been here for an hour. Today was a twelve. Tomorrow is the twenty-four.”
“When did you get Christmas Eve off?”
Evan chuckled, “Bobby needed me to cover b shift. Traded me Christmas Eve for it.”
“I hate you, golden boy Buckley.” Tommy joked and looked up at Evan. “Are you still off at six on Christmas? Are you going to Maddie’s?”
“Yeah, I’ll be off at six. No. They are going to Hen and Karen’s. I’ll probably just come home and watch Christmas Movies. Eddie and Chris are doing a quiet Christmas too.”
“That’s very holiday spirit of you, Evan. Are you going to see your sister at all?” Tommy said burying his face in his pillow.
“Going to spend Christmas Eve with them now. What were you doing all day.”
“Ah, guess that worked out for you. And I braved the mall.” Evan laughed and ran his fingers through Tommy’s hair.
“Two days before Christmas, I’m surprised you made it out alive.” Tommy scoffed.
“So am I. This is why I shop online.” Tommy said as he moved further onto his bed so he could rest his head in Evan’s lap from where he now sat.
“Hi.” Tommy whispered snuggling closely in his boyfriends lap.
“Hi. Are you hungry?” Evan asked, continuing to run his fingers thorough Tommy’s hair.
“No. I grabbed something eat while I was there. But I am done Christmas shopping.”
“That’s good. What’d you get.”
Tommy opened his mouth to answer, and clamped it shut. “Nice try Buckley.”
Evan laughed. “Hey, can’t blame a guy for trying right?”
“I guess not. Are you staying over tonight?”
“Nah, I figured I’d wait until you got home then head out.” Evan said, as much seriousness in his voice as he could muster. Tommy turned his head up and glared at him.
“You’re funny.”
“I know, right?” Evan said, leaning down to kiss Tommy. Tommy held Evan close, deepening the kiss. Savoring the last few hours of Evan being his boyfriend before he becomes his fiancé.
Buck was restless. It was Christmas Eve and even though his plan was going perfectly, he still missed Tommy. He really had wanted to share some of his Christmas Eve traditions with Tommy.
Like, what Buck was doing now. Making Christmas cookies. Jee was with him as he gathered his ingredients.
“Uncle Buck, can we make special helicopter cookies for Tommy?” Jee asked in her sweet voice.
Buck smiled and squeezed her little knees “I think that’s the best idea ever. Tommy will love them.” Jee clapped her hands with excitement.
“Uncle Buck, do you love Uncle Tommy.?” Buck stopped moving for a minute, feeling a warmth spread through his chest at Jee’s use of Uncle Tommy.
“Uh, y-yeah, I do. I love him a lot. Do you love him?”
Jee nodded her head. “He plays tea party with me. And fly’s me like an airplane.”
Buck laughed and nodded. “Yeah, he loves when he gets to play tea party with you too.”
Buck’s phone started to ring, and he pulled it from his pocket. “It’s Eddie, should we answer?”
Jee nodded her head. “Is Chris with him?” she asked sweetly, and nope, that was not happening. Jee did not have a crush on his best friends way older son.
“Maybe. Let’s see. Hello.”
“Buck, what are you doing?” Eddie asked
“I’m hanging with Jee, making Christmas cookies. What are you up to?”
“We’re making helicopter cookies for Tommy.” Jee shouted into the phone.
“Helicopter cookies? That sounds fun. Are you going to bring them to him tomorrow?” Eddie was now talking to Jee.
“No. Uncle Buck says he works. Uncle Buck is sad.”
“Yeah, I’m sure he is. Buck, you should bring them over to him tomorrow. Just because he works doesn’t mean you can’t see him.”
“Yeah, maybe. We’ll see.” Little did Eddie know; Buck was going to make sure he brought Jee’s cookies to Tommy while he surprised him with everything else.
“Alright, well you let me know if you want to go. Chris will be asleep until at least noon. But he’ll probably want to go see Tommy too.”
“Alright. Did you need something?” Buck asked suspiciously.
“No. I was just checking on my friend who has been pouting all week because he doesn’t get to spend his first Christmas Eve and Day with his boyfriend.”
“Oh, well thanks. But I’m fine. I’m with my favorite girl. And I’m sure I’ll talk to Tommy later.”
“Yeah, okay. I don’t want to know what you’ll talk to Tommy about later. I gotta go, we’re headed to mass. We’ll talk tomorrow. Good night. Bye Jee.” Buck heard Chris yell through the phone.
“Bye.” Jee giggled. And Buck hung up just as a knock came on the door and Maddie walked in. “Merry Christmas, how’s my girl?” She asked looking at the mess around them.
“Uncle Buck and I are making helicopter cookies for Tommy.” Jee said excitedly.
Buck smiled and looked at Maddie. “Care to join us? We haven’t actually made Christmas cookies together in, how long now?” He asked.
“Oh, god I don’t even know. I would love to help. Can mama help Jee-bug?”
“Yes!” Jee said excitedly and they all got to work on their forgotten tradition.
Later that night after Jee and Maddie had gone home, and Buck had gotten the loft cleaned up. He curled up on the couch with a cold glass of eggnog. Wrapped in his most comfy sweats, and Tommy’s hoodie. The only light in the room was the Christmas tree they had decorated two weeks ago. He missed Tommy. This wasn’t the way the holiday was supposed to go.
As the thought hit him again, he pulled his phone out and sent a quick message to the group.
Buck- We all set for tomorrow? Luce, you’re keeping your ears on the calls?
Lucy- I’m on it Buckley. I know people at dispatch too. They promised to let me know when harbor will be on calls
Buck- Okay. Thanks guys. I’ll see you both tomorrow.
Buck smiled and opened his camera, snapping a picture he sent it to Tommy.
Buck- Missing my warm and cozy boyfriend on this unusually cold LA Christmas eve
Tommy- Breath taking. I am missing you too baby. I am sorry that I can’t spend Christmas with you. I really wanted to.
Buck- I understand. We’ll have our Christmas. Besides, the tree is full of gifts that need someone to open them.
Tommy- As long as the first gift I get to open is my sexy boyfriend, I’ll sit and open anything.
Buck- Tommy Kinard, you are at work. But, yes, I will be in nothing but a bow, baby.
Tommy- Looked forward to it. Get some sleep. I’m going to try too while it’s q-word. Good night, Evan.
Buck- Good night, Tommy.
Buck rested his head back on the couch, closing his eyes, he drifted off to sleep. Not caring that the couch was not the most comfortable of places to fall asleep.
It was finally Christmas day. Tommy’s heart was pounding in his chest. He was out on a call, that was taking entirely too long. Eddie had texted him telling him to expect Evan to bring him cookies. Tommy had smiled at that. He would ask him when he did that. Tommy was excited. But he was also nervous.
He had no doubt in his mind Evan would say yes. He was ready to start this next chapter with Evan.
Finally getting back to Harbor Tommy wanted to go take a quick shower and be ready for when Evan arrived, he didn’t want to miss his moment.
He walked into the station and Tommy stood in awe of what was before him. So many Christmas decorations that hadn’t been there before they left on their call. And that smell? God was it heavenly.
“You know, you should always watch where you’re standing during a Christmas party. You never know who’s waiting there to kiss you.” Tommy looked above his head recognizing the hand holding the mistletoe there. Turning slowly toward his boyfriend.
Evan kissed him quickly. “Merry Christmas Tommy.” He smiled.
“Merry Christmas Evan. What are you doing here? Who is making that amazing smelling food? And is that the tree from your loft?”
Evan laughed. “Uh, no. It’s not. That one will stay there until we can have our own Christmas. The smell is compliments of Boddy and myself. And I learned a few years ago that no matter what, everyone deserves to spend the holidays with their loved ones. You see, there was this Christmas all of the 118 had to work. And nobody was going to be able to spend it with their families. Chris was upset because Eddie and I had to work, it was going to be Chim and Maddie’s first Christmas since everything with Doug happened, it was even Bobby and Athena’s first Christmas after getting married. So, knowing all of this. I went to Athena and together we threw a surprise Christmas party. I didn’t have anyone that year to spend it with. But I had them. And I wanted to spend today with you. I have been looking for so long for something special, for that feeling I would get growing up during Christmas. And yeah, I spent the one Christmas with Taylor. But, Tommy, I didn’t find it until I found you. And I couldn’t pass up spending this Christmas with you, in any way I can.” Evan looked at Tommy. A smile on his face as he continued. Tommy never looking away, listening intently to every word.
“Every day with you has been so special. Every moment I have with you is better than the last. You’ve turned my whole word on its head in the best way possible.” Evan stopped and looked down for a moment. Gathering his nerve. Tommy gently placed his fingers under Evan’s chin and lifted his face back up, so their eyes met again.
“Don’t look away, please. I love looking into your eyes.” Tommy whispered to him.
“Tommy, I am going to say something. And please know that you don’t have to say it back at all. I just, I’ve felt this way for a while now, and I just, I can’t hold it in anymore. I had this whole plan to tell you at home, when it was just us. But, well, we both knew what we were signing up for when we got into this relationship. But Tommy… I-I, I’m falling in love with you. And Y-yeah, I know it’s only been seven months. But when you know you know. And I knew a while ago. I just didn’t want to scare you. I know what you’ve gone through in the past. So, I kept it in. And please don’t feel like you have to say anything back. I’m not telling you this so you will. I just wanted you to know. I am falling for you. So bad. You are this, strong, confident, handsome, fearless, sexy, hot as fuck firefighter, who for some reason wants to be with me. And I just, I don’t know, I just can’t imagine my life without you in it now….”
“Evan, shut up.” Tommy whispered kissing him. “I love you too.” Tommy confessed, smiling at him, eyes crinkling the way that Evan loved so much. Evan pulled Tommy close and brought their lips together in a crushing kiss. This Christmas was one of the best ones he has had in a long time.
Captain West had taken harbor offline for a couple of hours. Hours that Tommy got to spend with Evan, laughing and holding him close as Evan got to know the people around him. Looking at his watch, Tommy knew he had to give Evan his gift soon.
Tommy placed his hand on Evan’s thigh and kissed his cheek. “Come with me for a minute babe?”
Evan looked at Tommy curiously, “Yeah of course.”
Tommy grabbed his hand and pulled him along with him. “Where are we going?” Evan asked with a small laugh.
“I want to give you your Christmas gift. Just, come on.” Evan shut his mouth and followed behind Tommy.
They stopped when they got to the helicopter that Tommy had flown into the hurricane. Turning he looked at Evan and took both of his own.
“Are we flying into another hurricane?” Evan joked.
“Not that I am aware of. No. I just, I’ve been thinking a lot about how this all started. Trying to pinpoint the exact moment I had fallen in love with you. And I came to the conclusion that it was here. When you walked onto the tarmac, all long legs and bright blue eyes, and breath-taking smile. It’s then that I knew I might be in trouble, because even before I knew you were trying to get my attention, or even into me. I felt this pull to you and I tried to fight it for all of about 4 seconds.”
“Tommy, what’s going on? Are you okay? You’re shaking, baby.”
“I know. I’m fine. I just. Evan, I love you. I cannot imagine my life without you in it. I want all of our firsts together to be our lasts. I can’t imagine doing life without you. Evan Buckley…” Tommy pulled back slightly, pulling the ring box from his pocket and sinking down onto his knee in front of him. “Will you marry me?”
Evan brought his hand up to his mouth. Gasping. “Tommy, what? Are you serious?”
“Yes. I am serious. I know it’s only been seven months. But baby I love you. You’re my forever. I want to make you mine for the rest of our lives. Baby, why be apart when we can be together. Please, Evan marry me.”
Evan leaned down and kissed Tommy. “Yes. Yes. Oh my god, yes” Evan said against his lips.
Tommy smiled and pulled the ring from his box, sliding it onto Evan’s finger where it belonged. Rising from the ground he pulled Evan into his arms and kissed him again. A cheer could be heard in the background as the entire station just witnessed the proposal. Tommy kissed Evan again just as the bell rang and the call for air ops came over the speaker.
Tommy rushed back into the station pulling Evan along with him, he got into his flight suit. Kissing Evan again. “Stay? Wait here for me? I want to spend more time with you.”
Evan nodded, “Yeah, of course. I’m not going anywhere. I love you. Be safe, babe.”
Tommy turned and ran toward the helicopter. “I love you, baby. See you soon.”
Buck sat on the couch in the breakroom at Harbor waiting for Tommy to get back. He couldn’t stop smiling. This Christmas had turned out even better than he could imagine. He wanted to shout from the room top that he was engaged to the man of his dreams.
He had a plan when Tommy came back. So he waited to text anyone.
“Buck, so um that was wow. Didn’t see that coming.” Styles sat down next to Buck, and Buck beamed.
“I think that was the point.”
“Yeah. I’m happy for you man. Tommy’s never been happier. I’m glad he found you.”
“Me too.” Buck was about to say more when he heard the chopper landing, and he got up walking to the hanger entrance.
Tommy was wincing as he grabbed his shoulder and Buck’s heart dropped. “What happened?” he asked as Tommy got closer. “Are you okay?”
“I’m fine. Patient was on hallucinogens and shoved me. Just landed on my shoulder wrong. Parks already checked me out. Come on. We need pictures, I have a fiancé and I want to show him off.” Tommy smiled at Buck and pulled him close and over to the Christmas Tree.
“See, you always know what I am thinking, that’s why I love you.”
Buck went willingly. Handing Tommy his phone, they positioned themselves in front of the tree. Bucks left hand rested against Tommy’s chest, his right arm wrapped around Tommy’s waist. Tommy’s Left arm wrapped around Bucks shoulders as his other reached out to take the picture.
Tommy took several. They were smiling at the camera, Tommy kissing Bucks temple. But the one Buck loved the most was the one Lucy posed them for.
She came over and took the phone from Tommy. Pulled Bucks hand from Tommys chest and had him hold it out just in front of the couple. “Now, Tommy kiss your man.” She said and Tommy didn’t have to be told twice. He pulled Buck to his lips and slid his hand along Buck’s arm, so Tommy was holding Bucks hand showing off the ring that rested on his finger. She snapped the picture and handed them the phone.
“Those others are cute. But this one, it’s the one. Trust me.” She said as she walked away.
“Kinard” West called. “Merry Christmas, go home. And don’t say I never gave you anything.”
“Uh-uh, the rest of my shift sir…”
“Will be covered. Get out of here Kinard before I change my mind.” Styles said, smiling at Buck.
Tommy laughed and nodded. Buck knew he wasn’t going to argue. They walked to the locker room together and Buck sat and watched Tommy change. Doing his best to impede Tommy’s progress as much as possible.
“You going to unwrap me when we get home?” Buck asked, pulling Tommy closer to him. Planting a heated kiss on Tommy’s lips.
“Very, slowly.” Tommy said against his lips.
“Get me out of here, Kinard. I have a fiancé to take to bed.”
“Oh you have no idea what it does to me to hear that word from these lips.” Tommy said kissing Buck again.
While Tommy drove them home. Buck brought up the picture Lucy took and smiled.
“I’m sending this to everyone. Do you like it?”
“I love it baby. Yes, send it. I want everyone to know. You’re mine forever.” Tommy lifted Buck’s hand to his lips and kissed his ring with a smile.
Buck- Best. Christmas. Ever.
Maddie- NO FREAKING WAY! TOMMY!!! AHHHHHHH!
Chim- About time someone made an honest man out of you, Buck.
Eddie- Bro, you’re engaged. I’m the best man, right?
Bobby- Congratulations, you two. Merry Christmas.
Hen- It’s about damn time! 118 Wedding in our future? Congratulations.
Karen- I NEED the full story. Drinks soon?
Athena- Buck! I am so happy for you, baby.
Buck read the replies coming in with a smile. “Everyone is so happy. They say congratulations.”
“I’m turning my phone off for the rest of the day.” Tommy joked as it kept ringing.
“No argument from me. I don’t know if I should tell my parents.” Buck turned his head to look at Tommy. Running his fingers through the hair on the back of his head.
“I’ll support whatever decision you make babe. If you’re asking for my opinion.”
“I always want your opinion, baby.”
Tommy smiled and rested his hand on Bucks thigh. “You need to tell them. I know things aren’t great. But they are still your parents, and this is a big moment in your life. Even if they decide not to support you or us. I think you should tell them.”
“Yeah?”
“Yeah. It doesn’t have to be some big announcement. Just send the picture in a text like you did. And it doesn’t have to be today. Let’s enjoy the rest of today. Just us. Nobody expects us to be at their house for dinner or anything right?”
“Right. I told Maddie I was spending Christmas at Harbor. She thought it was cute.”
“You were going to stay at harbor all day?”
“Of course I was. I wasn’t going to let our first Christmas be anything less than special. And unique.”
“Well, we succeeded, didn’t we?”
“I’d say so.” Buck smiled at Tommy as he pulled into the parking lot to the loft. “Although, I do think we should maybe talk about moving in together at some point.”
“Smart. See that’s why I’m marrying you. The lease is up in January. We have the entire month to pack and move you into the house. I got it planned, baby.” Tommy tapped the side of his head and got out of the car. Buck followed behind. Wrapping his arms around Tommy as they walked into the building. Buck had never been more content then he was that Christmas day.
One week later.
Tommy walked into Evans apartment. He had just gotten off his last shift of 2024 and all he wanted to do was curl up with his fiancé and make love to him into the new year. But what he saw as he opened the door almost brought Tommy to his knees.
The short walk from the door to the balcony was lined with paper lanterns and rose peddles. The lights in the loft were dimmed to add to the effect. When he looked up Evan stood just inside where the table used to be, which was pushed off to the side as much as possible, dressed to the nines in a black suit.
“Hey, baby.” Evan whispered, reaching his hand out to him. Tommy took it gladly.
“Evan, what is all this?” Tommy asked a smile on his face as he walked closer and gave Evan a quick kiss.
“This.” Evan stopped and looked around. “This is our wedding. I want to start the new year off married. To you. So, I invited everyone over.” Evan indicated to the side, Tommy seeing other people for the first time since walking in.
“And Bobby has agreed to marry us. If this is what you want.”
Tommy threw his head back and blinked up at the ceiling, trying to keep the tears from falling. “Of course, Evan. I would have married you the same day if I could have.”
“I know. So, the plan is we’ll spend time with our family and friends. There is a suit for you to change into upstairs. And at eleven thirty the ceremony will start. We’ll have thirty minutes, so that at midnight, we are taking, not only our first news years together kiss but also our first new year’s kiss as husbands.”
Tommy squeezed the hand that he still held, smiling at Evan. “Evan, this is.” He looked around him quickly and then back to Evan. “This is perfect.”
“I had to top that proposal.” Evan winked at Tommy and Tommy laughed, bringing Evan in for a proper kiss.
“Go, change. It’s almost eleven.” Evan said when they broke apart.
Tommy nodded and moved away from Evan, stopping to say hello to a few people along the way with hugs and high-fives. Once upstairs, Tommy quickly changed, looking at himself in the mirror, he ran his fingers through his hair. Trying to release more of the product that held it in place. He was getting married tonight. The thought alone was enough to keep a smile on his face, and to give him the energy he hadn’t had when he walked through the door.
Quickly making his way back downstairs, Tommy spotted Evan talking to Eddie and Chim and walked over. Wrapping his arm around Evan’s waist he pulled him close. Kissing his temple. “Missed you, baby.” Tommy whispered.
“Missed you too.”
“You two are so sick. I can’t even stand it. You’re going to be insufferable at the fire house aren’t you, Buck?” Eddie asked.
“I have the right. And you wouldn’t have me any other way.”
“No, you’re right.” Eddie said, smiling at him.
“Hey, Howie. Last minute I know. But I am assuming, Eddie will be Evan’s best man?” Tommy looked at Evan who nodded his agreement. “Would you be mine? I would have done something so much bigger if I had any idea.”
“Hey, buy me a beer next time we go out, I’d be honored man.” Howie said as he reached out his hand to Tommy, and Tommy pulled him into a quick hug.
“Hey, guys, you ready?” Bobby asked coming up to Tommy and Evan.
Tommy looked at his watch and smiled at Evan. “So ready.” Tommy pulled Evan in for a quick hug. “Okay, where do I go?” He asked pulling away from Evan.
“Nothing special. We’re just going to open the balcony doors and we’ll be out there” Evan shrugged like it wasn’t a big deal. But Tommy knew better, this was the most important night of their lives, and he knew Evan had put so much thought into it in just a short amount of time.
They both walked behind Bobby as he moved to the balcony. Lucky for them it was a relatively warm Los Angeles New year’s eve.
Bobby stood outside against the railing. Buck on his right and Tommy to the left. Eddie and Chim standing against the doors just inside the loft.
Evan smiled at Tommy as they got settled and Evan grabbed both Tommy’s hands in his own.
“Good evening.” Bobby started. “We all know why we are here. So I think it’s safe to say we can skip that part. Tonight holds such significance for so many. New year’s eve is the final page in a three hundred- and sixty-five-page book. It’s a chance to reflect on what has led you to the moment you’re at right now. Buck and Tommy will now always have a special end to their book for years to come. With this all being thrown together so last minute, Tommy probably didn’t have to opportunity to write anything”
“Uh, no. I’ll just wing it.” Tommy shrugged and Evan laughed.
“Well, let’s move into that portion of things. Buck, why don’t you start.”
Evan took a deep breath and smiled at Tommy, squeezing his hands tighter. “Tommy, I sometimes feel like we’ve be together for years and not just months. You literally flew into my life in the middle of a hurricane and corrected my course. I-I think one of the reasons that I am so comfortable with you is-is ‘Cause you're so comfortable with you. And I know, you weren’t always that way. I do. And honestly, it... It just makes me love and admire you so much more.” Evan took another deep breath and looked at Tommy, tears clouding his eyes and a smile permanently affixed to his face. “On that coffee date redo, I wasn’t sure what I was ready for, but I was ready for something, and I have found that something with you. And I-I'm ready to... take this next step with you. To take every step with you for the rest of my life, because let’s face it with my track record yours will probably be longer.”
“Hey, shut up. I’m going first. No exceptions.” Evan laughed and nodded his head.
“Tommy, I love you so much. And I promise from tonight and for the rest of our lives, together and apart, to hold you close to my heart. To love you, and fight for you, to honor you as my husband and partner in this life. I was once told, you don’t wish for a love like ours, you make it. And baby from this day forward I am committed to making it with you.” Evan brought Tommy’s hands up to his lips and kissed each one.
“This mother fuc…, How the hell am I supposed to follow that?” Tommy asked, gaining a laugh from everyone.
“I don’t know. But I'm confident you’ll figure it out. Speak from your heart.” Tommy took his own deep breath and looked at Evan.
“Evan, my love. You think I blew into your life? Well let me tell you what really happened. Here I was minding my own god damn business, when this gorgeous six foot two, blue eyed, beast of a man came walking into harbor station, all long legs and perfect as… uh, smile.” Tommy winked, looking down at Jee before looking back as Evan and mouthing “Ass” at him as he continued. “And knocked my world off its perfectly centered axis. I spent most of my life in hiding. Keeping to myself and not letting anyone in, just ask Hen and Howie. And here you came, pulling me out further. Giving me the family I’ve longed for. So many times before no matter how bad I’ve wanted to be I’ve never been anyone’s last. I’m always someone’s first, Or someone’s for right now. Just a steppingstone to their forever. But as I stand here, looking in your eyes, at this moment, I’ve finally found it. I’ve found my last. I used to be afraid that even though you wouldn’t mean to or even plan for it, you’d somehow end up breaking my heart. And that was always something I don’t think I could have delt with. But in these past seven mounts, you’ve gone out of your way to prove to me how wrong I was. Baby, you’ve put the broken pieces back together so perfectly you could never tell my heart had ever been broken.” Tommy felt the tear as it slowly fell from his eye and rolled down his cheek. Evan reached up and wiped it away, resting his hand against Tommy’s face and Tommy leaned into his touch.
“Evan Buckley, I love you so damn much sometimes it really hurts. You're an incredible guy. Big-hearted. Hot as hell. Funny. Impulsive.” Tommy laughed, indicating their surroundings and Evan laughed. “And what you're, what we’re feeling right now is... is new. And it's exciting, and... god, it finally feels like forever. And I am so grateful to get a front row seat, and to stand by your side as you continue to figure yourself out. And I can’t wait until we start to take these next steps together and figure out what it means for us. I promise from tonight and for the rest of our lives, together and apart, to hold you close to my heart. To love you, and fight for you, to honor you as my husband and partner in this life. And yes, I am aware I just stole the words you spoke. Sue me.” Tommy winked.
“Wow. You two know how to pack a punch don’t you. But did you have to go and make my wife cry? And your sister?, Come on guys.” Bobby laughed.
“I’d say sorry, but those two would have cried either way.” Evan replied.
“I pled the fifth. I don’t think there is any more I can say. And I don’t really have the time to do so. So, are there rings?”
Eddie stepped forward and placed Evan’s engagement ring and one Tommy didn’t recognize in Bobbys hand. “Thanks Eddie.” He said taking one he held it up.
“Look at this ring. It’s a perfect circle, no end. It represents eternity. As you both walk this life together it is your responsibility to never allow anyone to come in and break the bond that this ring will forge. Evan, take this ring and repeat after me.”
“I, Evan Buckley, pledge to you, Thomas Kinard, all that I am and all that I will ever be as your husband, your lover, your best friend and your greatest supporter. With this ring I the wed.” Evan was almost giddy with excitement as he finished pushing the ring onto Tommy’s figure.
“Tommy, take this ring and repeat after me.”
“I, Thomas Kinard, pledge to you, Evan Buckley, all that I am and all that I will ever be as your husband, your lover, your best friend and your greatest supporter. With this ring I the wed.”
“With the words spoken today, all that I have left to say to you both is, it is my honor to stand before you and these witnesses and by the power vested in me, by the state of California, I now pronounce you husbands. You can kiss your husband in… 10”
Everyone started the countdown together.
“9…8…7…6…5…” With each number Tommy pulled Evan closer and closer in anticipation “4…3…2…1…”
The noise around them seemed to fade and as Tommy pulled Evan to him and molded their lips together. He kissed his husband, and his husband kissed him back. Breaking apart momentarily, Tommy leaned in again and placed a string of quick little kisses on Evan’s lips, making Evan’s smile widen.
“My husband.” Evan said, wrapping his arms around Tommy tighter. “I love you, baby.”
“I love you.” Tommy said running his nose along Evan’s before diving in for another kiss.
Bobby spoke again briefly ending the ceremony with. “Everyone, I introduce to you for the first time as husbands Tommy and Evan Buck-“
“Kinard.” Evan jumped in, shocking Tommy. “I want to be a Kinard.” He said more to Tommy than anyone else. Tommy just pulled him into a hug, kissing him again.
“Well than, Tommy and Evan Kinard. Congratulations guys.”
Tommy and Evan knew that no matter what the next three hundred and sixty-five days brought their way, they had each other to get through it all.
For better or worse.
They had found their last.