Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Honey

I knew I loved you before I met you
I think I dreamed you into life
I knew I loved you before I met you
I have been waiting all my life

- I Knew I Loved You by Savage Garden 

Luca's Bachelor Pad 

Luca POV

Luca was currently laying on the floor of his unfinished bathroom scrolling through his phone knowing his hips and back would be killing him later. He started his morning bright and early, determined to get the tile completely removed by noon then removing the moldy bathroom cabinets this afternoon. Four days off was not a common occurrence for him and he was determined to make some headway on his house. Two hours into this endeavor, the bathroom tile was up, and his motivation was down.

I need coffee. And to eat something. I also need to run to the hardware store and pick up the new cabinets and to walk Duke… but I need coffee or none of this shit is happening.

Frustrated he began scrolling through his phone searching for nearby shops - Maggie’s Mocha and Music… interesting. Slowly, Luca sat up and looked down at his clothes; he looked like a train wreck in old cargo pants and SWAT t shirt, but decided he wasn’t bothering to change just to get messy again. With a groan he got to his feet and whistled for Duke who met him by the door. After harnessing him, Luca and Duke went for a quick walk before Dom left him in the AC and started his walk to the coffee shop.

—--

Maggie's Mocha and Music

Luca walked inside the shop and was hit with the familiar smell of coffee and Dream On by Aerosmith playing softly in the background. Looking around inside, guitars and music equipment lined the wall on the left, with a stage at the back corner, to the right, stood a bakery display case full of assorted goods, and a large menu filled with music referenced coffee drinks. Swiveling his head back to the woman behind the counter, she was wiping down the counter, bobbing her head to the song causing her hair to bounce with her.

When the door closed the bells on the door chimed, causing her to look up at him, her smile was bright and flirty “Well come on in, haven’t seen you in here before.”

Dom smiled back at the woman and came up to the counter “This place is amazing! I haven’t been here before, I just moved to the neighborhood. What do you recommend?”

“In that case, welcome to Maggie's Mocha and Music shop, I’m Maggie. Before I make you something, I need more information to come to a decision. How do you like your coffee?”

“It’s nice to meet you Maggie, my name is Dominique, but my friends call me Luca.”

“Well Luca, How do you like your coffee?”

“I usually drink it black-”

“Yes but how do you like your coffee?”

He laughed, “something sweeter, but strong”

She looked up at her menu thinking when another chime came from the door. He looked over and had the breath knocked out of him. Standing with the sunlight coming in around her, was the girl of Luca’s dreams. Her brown hair was tied back, revealing a round face and black and gold butterfly earrings. She was wearing a black pencil skirt with a white button down, while carrying the largest purse Luca has ever seen, hooked over one arm.

“Harper! I was starting to worry, you’re later than usual.”

Harper Luca committed it to memory.

Harper gave a sheepish smile to Maggie “I had a late night yesterday, I decided to sleep in for a bit. Can I get my usual? And a scone?”

“We could use your assistance” Maggie jerked her head towards Dom, “Dominique Luca here needs something strong and sweet.” Harper's eyes locked onto Luca’s God; her eyes looked like honey too. “What do you think Harper?”

Without taking her eyes off him, she replied “The Stevie Nicks- that’s got a good kick to it”

“Of course, Luca: do you want your drink hot, iced, or frozen?”

Luca raised an eyebrow at Harper, smiling like an idiot “any preference there?” Harper’s eyes filled with mirth, before shaking her head no. “Then I’ll take it iced, thank you Maggie.”

“You’re so welcome” and with that, Maggie turned to start on the coffee.

Luca broke eye contact first to look back to Maggie, “how much do I owe you? And can I pay for Harper’s as well?”

“These are on me - you two go sit down and chat. I’ll let ya know when they’re ready”

Harper narrowed her eyes at the back of Maggie’s head before looking up at Luca, “wanna sit down?”

Like I could ever say no “yes.”

They sat down at a high-top table closer to the front windows, side by side, Dom looking around again “I’ve never seen a double store like this, it’s awesome”

“I agree, I love coming here, it’s the best coffee in East Hollywood, Maggie is also my best friend so I might have some bias.”

He laughed at that, “so you live in the area too?”

“Yea - I have for the last 10 years. You?”

“I just moved into my house. I’m currently renovating which is why I look like this” gesturing to his clothes.

She laughed looking at what he was wearing. “I’m not one to judge. What are you currently working on?”

“My bathroom, I removed all of the old tile work this morning, I’m hoping I can finish most of it today”

“You’ve got ambition. I did a lot of my remodeling myself too, the bathroom was the hardest for me to deal with- but it's my fault for wanting a clawfoot tub in there. It was such a pain getting that sucker in the house- I almost gave up and put it in the kitchen.”

Luca threw his head back and laughed just thinking about that. “That’s impressive. I shouldn’t be surprised, you look like someone who is amazing at anything you try.”

Harper giggled “that is absolutely NOT true”

“Oh yea? Name one thing you’re bad at”

“I - uh.. Oh God you put me on the spot, I-”

“So I’m right”

“No -”

“Clock is ticking -”

“Well tell this metaphorical clock to stop”

Luca chuckled and shook his head. Watching her bite the inside of her cheek in thought before her eyes lit up, “oh I know! I’m a terrible skater”

“Like skateboarding?”

“I’m not sure about that, but considering how bad I am at roller skating, I’ll loop skateboarding into that as well. I went to a 70s themed roller skating party with Maggie and our friends Jess and Rashida a few years ago, I busted my chin open and broke my wrist.” She tilted her chin back to show a very faint scar under her chin.

Luca took a closer look and winced “Ok ya got me there… Wait, it was 70s themed? Were you all dressed up?”

Harper chuckled, her face heating up in embarrassment at retelling this story “Yea… four tipsy, terribly dressed hippies in the hospital waiting room… the doctors were not amused.”

A cough from the counter signaled him that their drinks and Harper’s scone were ready. He quickly got up and grabbed everything and brought it back to the table for them. “So I gotta ask, what is your usual?”

“Thank you, it’s the Eartha Kitt with a drizzle of honey”

“Sounds delicious” he took a sip of his own before groaning “God I needed this, this is fantastic.”

She looked at his shirt “LAPD?”

“Yea- I serve in the Metro SWAT division. What about yourself?”

“I'm the CEO for a Nonprofit organization. Do you know Jessica Cortez?”

“She’s the Captain of our team! You run a Nonprofit? That’s amazing but sounds terrifyingly busy. How do you know Captain Cortez?”

“It is busy, but very rewarding. She and I are friends, we met in undergrad. I don’t see her often because of work. It’s a small world”

He gave her a wide smile, “I’m glad it is. Wait, is that the Jess from your story?”

Harper laughed and nodded her head yes, “I’d show you pictures but I value my life too much.” Her phone pinged and she turned to dig through her bag, “shit that’s my cue” hearing her phone chime again before she looked at who was texting her, shooting Luca an apologetic smile. “I’m sorry, I have to get going or I’ll be late to my meetings… I um, I really enjoyed talking with you.” She packed her scone that was wrapped in parchment into her bag before slinging it high on her shoulder before standing up.

Luca stood up with her and blurted out “canigetyournumber?” She looked back at him quizzically. He coughed and repeated himself “Could I get your number? I would love to see you again. Maybe we could grab dinner sometime?”

She looked surprised but quietly slid her purse from her shoulder, borrowing through it to find a pen. She used Luca’s unused napkin to write down her name and number. “Um - this is my personal phone, so if I don’t answer right away it’s probably because I’m in meetings or with a guest.” She handed him the napkin “I’ll be waiting.”

Luca took the napkin from her, grazing his fingers along her hand, “you won’t be waiting long.”

Her cheeks warmed at that and nodded at him before making her way towards the door, saying a quick goodbye to Maggie and walking down the street.

Luca quickly made his way up to the counter after the door closed “Maggie.” She was pretending to clean a cup not facing him. “Maggie, I want to pay for our drinks, please.”

She turned to face him, cocking her head to the side, trying her damndest to keep her face neutral, “why?”

“Maggie. I think you know why.”

“I wanna hear you say it”

“Maggie”

She gave him a look as if to tell him she’s waiting.

He sighed and looked down at the counter top he was leaning against “whether it was your intentions or not, you just set me up with the most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen. While I don’t believe paying you would be enough, I think it would be a great place to start.”

She gave him a wide smile “she’s one of my best friends. You better treat her right, cause there will be a line of very violent-when-angry people waiting for you if you mess with her.”

He laughed “is one of those people my captain?”

“No, but she is our alibi”

“I’ll keep that in mind,” Dom took out a 20 dollar bill and put it in the tip jar. “I’m going to do my best not to mess this up. But seriously Maggie, thank you.”

—----

The Baddest Bitches Groupchat

Mags: Sent a photo

Mags: Boy is laying on the CHARM

Shida: GURL

Shida: HUNK
Shida: OH
Shida: MY
Jess: Could we please not talk about someone I work with 😢 this is killing me
Shida: GOD
Shida: Did you have to ruin my text chain? 💔💔💔💔💔
Shida: YOU WORK WITH HIM!!!
Mags: Give us the lowdown pleaseeeeeee
Shida: I’ll bring you lunch after I pick up the boys if you spill some teaaaaaaaaa
Jess: Why isn’t H responding?
Mags: She’s still talking with him, if he doesn’t ask for her number after this Ima 🔪🔪🔪🔪🔪 I set the both of them up perfectly 
Jess:

Shida: STOP DEFLECTING JESSICA CORTEZ 

Jess: I brought my own lunch today

Mags: JESS 

Jess: you two are killing me - He’s a good guy, name is Dominique Luca, he’s third generation SWAT. A bit goofy, but loyal. 

Shida: He best be good for our girl - ima fight him otherwise 

Mags: Rashida Stronghold, you will do no such thing. I refuse to take in your boys when you inevitably end up in prison 

Shida: I’m telling them you said that 

Mags: Don’t you fucking dare

Mags: Besides, that man looks like he could bench press you 🤤🤤🤤

Shida: Well maybe he'll bench press our Harper 🤤🤤🤤

Jess: You are both disgusting.

Jess: Maggie, what’s happening with Luca and Harper now?? 

Mags: oh NOW you wanna know 

Jess: no 

Shida: YES

Mags: I just gave them their drinks, they’re talking about his current renovations he’s doing on his house, and about skating? Idk, will it be too obvious if I turn down the music a little? 

Mags: OMG he’s making her laugh 💖💖💖💖

Mags: She’s going to kill us when she sees these messages 

Shida: 

Jess: 

Mags: Y’all are traitors 

Mags: HE ASKED FOR HER NUMBER

Shida: IS SHE GIVING IT??

Mags: YES 

Shida: 

Jess: Atta girl 

-----

HOMe Helps Headquarters

Harper POV

20 minutes had passed by the time Harper made it to the parking lot of her building. She was smiling when she entered the font doors of HOMe, and greeted the two young girls working the front counters before heading to the elevator. Anxiously she opened her personal phone to see if anyone had texted her to find a long ass text thread in her friend group chat, two missed calls from Jess, three text from Jess, two from Rashida, and one from an unknown number. Rolling her eyes she scrolled through the Baddest Bitches Groupchat and plotted Maggie's murder. She quickly started typing back to the traitors. 

 The Baddest Bitches Groupchat 

H: YOU MOTHER FUCKERS 

H: Magnolia LadyDay Brown I’m going to murder you 

H: I am very disappointed in all of you 

Shida: Babe we just want you get get LAID 

Jess: to be fair, I wanted no part of this 

Mags: He’s so cute Harper! Has he texted you yet????

H: Like I’ll tell you hoes anything after you eavesdropped on our conversation 

Mags: 

Scoffing she looked at her other text messages from Jess, asking her if she wanted any info about Luca, she texted her back asking to meet up for dinner tonight at their favorite sushi place and got a thumbs up as a reply. She then switched to the text from the unknown number. 

Maybe: Luca: Hi Harper. This is Luca from the coffee shop. I know your a busy lady, but I can't wait to see you again. Have a good day at work 

Harper quickly saved his number before replying 

Harper: Thank you, I will :) Today isn't terribly busy which will be nice. Good luck with the bathroom renovations today. I'll text you later 

Dominique Luca: I'll be waiting 

The Baddest Bitches Groupchat

H: … yes he has texted me 😏

Shida: 

Shida: THAT'S OUR BABY 

Mags: You better let us know how good that dick is 👀👀👀👀👀

Jess: I’m going to barf. Please don’t 

H: I’m blocking all of you istg 

Chapter Text

Talk 

Yours was the first face that I saw
I think I was blind before I met you
And I don't know where I am, I don't know where I've been
But I know where I want to go

- First Day of My Life by Bright Eyes

HOME Headquarters (around 3 pm)

Harper POV 

Harper's afternoon meetings with her board of directors went better than expected, but then received news that she had been scheduled for a breakfast meeting with one of the nonprofits' larger donors. She all but collapsed face first onto the comfy couch in her office (that she has slept on more than she’d like to admit) and let out a groan. 

Fucking Mark O’Toole and his ego and gigantic checkbook. She didn’t usually mind meeting with donors, but Golden Boy Mark felt like Harper owed him her time to make him feel extra special about him being charitable. 

She felt her personal phone vibrate and dug through her purse to find it. 

Dominique Luca: Good news - I’ve successfully installed my bathroom counter and cabinets. Bad news- I dropped my new bowl sink bringing it into the bathroom and it shattered 😭

Harper chuckled and before she could reply, received another message 

Dominique Luca: How did your meetings go? 

Harper: 😂 Oh god that's so bad- hopefully they have more at the store? 

Harper: They went well! I met with my board of directors and we’ve just filled all of our open positions so things are looking good! 

Dominique Luca: That’s fantastic Harper! I’m hoping they do too.

Dominique Luca: So what type of nonprofit are you the CEO of? 

Harper: It’s a social advocacy nonprofit. We’re called HOME Helps, we support victims of domestic violence and sexual assault and offer a ton of services within our organization to people seeking our help and the community at large 

Harper: I feel like I just gave you a sales pitch 

Dominique Luca: That is amazing Harper, I’ve heard of HOME before, we’ve had training with someone from there in the past. 

Harper: Oh yea? Maybe it was me who presented it to you. We work with local law enforcement offices on letting them know of our general resources. 

Dominique Luca: No way. Trust me, I would have recognized your beautiful face in a heartbeat. 😏

Harper: Such a sweet talker 😏

Harper: So after the bathroom, what all will you have left to do? 

Dominique Luca: everything - there's at least one thing in every room that needs fixed. I have to talk with my teammate Chris about asking her Uncle to help check the room for leaks - and to help with the kitchen. 

Harper: My place was the same - it’ll feel great when it’s all done

She looked at the clock on the wall and sighed

Harper: I should get back to work - tons of stuff to get through 🙃

Dominique Luca: same here- back to the hardware store I go. I’ll text you later? 

Harper: I’ll be waiting 🥰

She allowed herself to have two minutes of deep breathing exercises before getting up and sitting in her office chair attempting to catch up on the never ending strain of emails. After responding to the more urgent emails, she called to check in with her EA to make sure things were ready for her morning meeting. When she looked at her watch she saw it was already past five, and she wanted to get a run in before heading to dinner with Jess at 7. She went to her filing cabinet and opened the bottom drawer, revealing a full toiletry kit, extra dress clothes, and workout gear. After quickly changing she walked down a few floors to the building's gym and ran for a half hour before showering and driving to dinner. 

—--

Zumi’s

Jess had already snagged them a booth by the time Harper arrived. After giving each other a quick hug they sat down and ordered drinks, looking over what sushi rolls and sides they wanted to order. 

“So, Dominique Luca?” Harper glanced up at Jess, who was smirking at her. 

“So, David Arias?” She shot back and laughed as Jess choked on her drink. “Did you think I wouldn’t find out? I met with him last week to talk about an event with the boys and girls club and he saw our picture together in my office. I played it off, you’re welcome by the way, but he’s a nice guy. Smoking hot and smart - so perfect for you.” 

Jess had her head in her hands by the time Harper was done speaking. “He’s … He’s a great guy, I don’t want to say much. But you’re right, he is a nice guy.” 

“But he’s not like the hot cop that you had to break things off with.” 

“You know it’s not that simple” 

“So I’ve gathered. I might not understand Jess, but I love you and I’ll respect whatever you think is best for you. You were just a lot happier with the hot cop.” 

She sighed at that, “well, we broke it off. It would have negatively impacted our careers if we didn’t. Mine especially.” 

Harper hummed in thought before looking up to see Jess staring at her expectantly. I don’t know why I thought I’d get out of talking about him.  

“I don’t know J, he seems very sweet. But I’m so busy with work, it wouldn’t be fair to him if I try to start something with him when my first priority will always be HOME.” 

Jess let out an exasperated breath, “You two haven’t even been on a date yet and you are already planning for this potential relationship's demise?” 

She shrugged, “three steps ahead, you know me.” 

“Well take three steps back. What was it like when you talked with him this morning?” 

Harper smiled thinking back to it, “it was fun… and it was easy talking to him. He’s got these beautiful, intense blue eyes - they were the first thing I noticed about him. And when he's talking to you you know all his attention is on you. You know?” Jess nodded for her to keep going, sipping her martini. “He’s a babe - I know not your type but fuck he's attractive. On top of that, he’s funny. I don’t remember genuinely laughing that much with a guy in a very long time. He’s probably got girls lining down the block that can give him the kind of attention he deserves.” 

Jess rolled her eyes “have you two texted at all today?” 

Harper nodded and pulled out her phone, “I mean - not a lot, it was after my board meeting then I got busy answering emails.” 

Jess held out her hand for Harper's phone before she warily handed it over. She scrolled through the brief text exchange they had and gave a pointed look to Harper “for someone with three degrees you are so dumb at times. He’s obviously flirting and trying to get to know you, H. Why not give it a shot?” 

“Won’t it be weird for you? Your best friend with someone you work with?” 

“Why would it? Luca and I can keep it professional at work, you’ve been by the office before, I’m honestly surprised you two haven’t ran into each other before. And if that’s the best excuse you’ve got, that was lame.” 

Harper started squeezing the tips of her fingers one at a time, looking down at the table top thinking. She knew it was a lame excuse, but that didn’t stop her mind from flashing red with all the reasons it could go wrong. “Jess, how would this be worth it for someone like him?” 

“How would a relationship with you be worth something to Luca?” If Harper would have been looking at Jess, she would have seen a pained look cross her face before closing her eyes. Taking a deep breath she answered, “you let me in, you let Rashida in, you let Maggie and Parker in, and others. Why can’t Luca be let in? Why are you so against trying at something solid?” 

She stopped wringing her hands and looked up at Jess, “ok”

“‘Ok’ what?” 

It was Harper's turn to roll her eyes “as in: ‘ok you’re right’, happy?” 

Jess lifted her drink for a fake toast, laughing, “very.” 

—----- 

Luca’s House (later that evening) 

Luca POV

I wonder if she made it home yet..

After finishing what he wanted to for the day, Luca washed up, ordered take-out and was relaxing on the couch with Duke beside him thinking about Harper. I need to figure out what we could do for a first date. I want to see her again. Just before he was going to text her goodnight and head to bed, his phone chimed. 

Harper: What are your plans for tomorrow? Specifically around lunchtime? 

Luca furrowed his eyebrows in thought. Tomorrow he was going to start on his bedroom walls. He still needed to patch some serious holes, and Chris’s uncle was going to look at the roof. Before he could formulate a reply he received another message. 

Harper: I understand if you’re busy. But I wanted to see if you were able to grab lunch with me? I have an hour and a half free 

He smiled and shot back a reply 

Dominique Luca: Are you preventing me from planning our first date together? 

Harper: Funny, I don’t remember receiving an invitation to this “first date”. Are you texting the right girl? 😏

Dominique Luca: There's only one beautiful woman on my mind recently. She’s something special, I want to make sure I get this right. 

Harper: Very smooth Dom. 

Harper: You don’t count coffee as our first date? 

Dominique Luca: I try my best 

Dominique Luca: And no I don’t. Dates usually have to last more than 30 minutes for them to count. 

Harper: I must have missed that rule in the dating class I took in undergrad 🤔

Dominique Luca: lol alright, we’re getting off track. Yes to lunch. Would you like me to meet you at your office? And what time? 

Harper: Yes to the office, and can you be there at 12:30? Here’s the address 

Dominique Luca: Yes I’ll be there. 

Harper: I have a weird request for you- but it’s just protocol for our office 

Dominique Luca: Anything Harper what is it? 

Harper: Can you send me a picture of you? It’s just more me to give to the front desk assistants 

Dominique Luca: No that’s fine 

Dominique Luca: Sent a photo 

Dominique Luca: This work ok? 

Harper: Oh wow in uniform? Be still my heart 😍

Dominique Luca: alright alright I get it 😏

Harper: The photo works perfectly. Thank you 😘

Dominique Luca: my turn though. Can I get a picture of you? 

Harper: You want a picture of me? 

Dominique Luca: Of course I do 

Harper: Why? 

Dominique Luca: I have three main reasons. 1: so when you call or text me I get to see your beautiful face smiling at me 

Harper: Cute, but I'm not sure I’m convinced 

Dominique Luca: 2, I want to be able to show you off to my teammates on Monday. And there's no way in hell they’ll believe that I snagged the most beautiful girl in LA without proof. 

Dominique Luca: 3, I don’t know if you’re aware of this, but you have the most beautiful eyes I’ve ever seen, and I’m a lucky enough guy to be able to even get your attention. And I want to be able to look at them more than when I see you 

Harper: Way to make a girl blush. Alright you’ve convinced me 

Luca waits for the next chime and is immediately blindsided with how radiant she is. It’s a picture of her curled up on the couch, her curly hair loose around her shoulders and shining in the sunlight. Perched on her knees in a thick book that has all her attention. 

Dominique Luca: God damn you’re a dream 

Harper: Thank you, it’s pretty common to find me curled up with a book- I love to read 

Dominique Luca: What are you currently reading? 

Harper: The Good Earth. Can’t decide if I like it or not. I usually give it 100 pages before I decide if it’s worth finishing. 

Harper: I need to get to bed - I have a breakfast meeting in the morning. I’ll see you at 12:30 for our date? 

Dominique Luca: Wouldn’t miss it for the world. Sweet dreams Harper 

Harper: Sweet dreams Dominique 

—--- 

Petit-Déjeuner (Friday Morning) 

Harper POV 

It was nearing 9 am when Harper let Mark O’Toole know that she had ‘another meeting’ to run to and had to end their breakfast gathering. And if he keeps talking about his stupid fucking yatch I’m going to end up in a holding cell with murder charges.

“So how about holding a fundraiser on the Saudade?” 

You weren’t even born in Ireland you pretentious fuck. Smiling politely Harper tried to reason with the man “as wonderful as that sounds, we always try to choose a common ground place to hold such events and, last I spoke with our special events coordinator, she has already scouted several locations for this year's gala. But I will be sure to mention it to her.

He smiled, seeming appeased enough for that. “Even if it’s not meant to be, I would love to show it to you someday.” 

Before she could formulate a way to say no without hurting his pride her phone began to ring. Saved by the fucking bell. The bell being her EA, Devin, who she had scheduled to call her if she hadn’t texted her by 8:55. She stood up and shot a text to Devin letting her know she’s on her way. “I’m sorry, that’ll be my next meeting. As always Mr. O’Toole, it was wonderful to see you. Please tell your mother I said ‘hello’. I look forward to seeing her at next months Women Empower Women event.” 

She reached out to shake his hand, which he clasped with both hands “Please, call me Mark. It's always such a delight to see you Harper. Remember what I said about The Saudade. You just say the word.” 

She smiled and waved as she quickly moved through the outside seating area to the valet to pick up her car and make the drive back to headquarters. 

—------ 

Luca’s Bachelor Pad 

Luca’s POV 

Chris was currently over at Luca’s with her Uncle Sarzo and cousin Tomas, who both started working on the roof repairs while the two talked. “So, you’re panicking over what to do for your first date… even though you two are having your first date today?” 

Luca groaned “the first date that I plan, yes. She asked me to lunch. I want it to be special, and I want her to have a good time.” 

“What is she like?” 

“She's smart, loves to read in her free time. She is the CEO of a nonprofit that helps survivors of domestic and seuxal violence - which is so badass. She moved to East Hollywood ten years ago and did almost all of her house renovations. And she's drop dead gorgeous.” 

“Can I see a picture?” 

He gave her a serious look, “this is trusted information and she’s spoken for Chris.” 

She rolled her eyes “I’d like to remind you that I’m in a relationship with not one, but TWO people. Trust me, I don’t need a third.” Luca showed her Harper’s photo “Oh FUCK Luca.” 

He smirked, “I know right?” 

“She’s very pretty - not the type you usually go for. She’s got some serious curves to her-” 

Dom snatched his phone back “So are you going to help me or not?” 

“Do you know if she’s been to the Last Bookstore? That seems up her alley. It’s downtown, so afterwards you could grab some food, and that’ll be a little bit of the ‘fun and different’ but also traditional not-first/first-dateness about it.” 

He smiled and fist bumped Chris. “You’re the real one. I have to go grab some things before I go meet Harper. Will you all be ok locking up?” 

“Yea yea just leave already” 

—----- 

HOME Headquarters (12:15) 

Harper POV 

After another less than pleasant breakfast meeting, Harper was inundated with work emails and returning phone calls to even notice the time. She was pacing the room looking out the window while on the phone with her HR Director when she faintly heard her office door open. 

Turning towards the door she saw Dominique with a vase of flowers in one hand and a togo cup from Maggie’s coffee in the other. “Uh - Lou I like the idea a lot - run with your gut, I um- I gotta let you go.” 

He smiled brightly at her, “cute crocs.” 

She looked down at her light blue crocs before twirling “why thank you, they match the outfit.” 

Dom nodded, before walking over to her and handing her the coffee cup. “For the beautiful lady, the Eartha Kitt with a drizzle of honey. You had an early morning, I figured you could use the pick-me-up.” 

She greedily took three huge gulps before coming up for air, beaming a smile at him, “you have no idea how much I needed this. Thank you Dom.” 

He smiled, lifting the vase full of blue hydrangeas up a bit, “I had a little help with the flowers, Maggie said you liked the color blue?” 

“They’re beautiful” she set her coffee on her desk before taking the vase from his hands and setting it on the coffee table in front of her couch. “Thank you - you really are winning brownie points today.” 

“This is still childs play, just wait until we go on our first date-” 

“Second date good sir, we are about to go on our first.” 

“My bad - the first date that I plan. Are you ready for lunch?” 

“Let me change into my actual shoes then I’ll be ready” 

“No crocs for lunch?” 

“Maybe next time,” she laughed, slipping on her nude heels before grabbing her two phones and wallet. “Are you picky with your food?” 

“No - I’ll eat anything” 

“Are you up for Mediterranean?” 

“Always,” he held out his hand for her to take, which she did. Leading him out into the lobby towards the elevators. 

She stopped and spoke a few words to her EA, Devin, before taking the elevator down to the main floor. “You didn’t have any trouble coming in right?” 

“No, they asked who I was here to see then Devin met me down here to take me up to you - she’s really nice.” 

“She’s very smart too - this place wouldn’t be half of what it is without her. I wanted to give her a director position but she likes the EA gig.” 

He squeezed her hand, “how has your day been?” 

Harper bit the inside of her cheek, “it was alright. I met with a donor, which I usually don’t mind, but he just does it for the ego boost.” 

“Oh so it was an ass-kissing breakfast?” 

She grimaced “more or less. One of the less than savory parts of the job, but it needs to be done.” 

“I would not be any good at that, specifically those doing it for the ego boost. Do you have many of those types?” 

“Nah - maybe two or three. And it’s not that bad, you seem good at talking with people, you would be fine at it with some practice.” She nudged his shoulder when he laughed. “So this place I’m taking you to, it’s called Dionysus, the guy who owns it, Dio, is a sweet older guy. I come here at least once a week. He might give you some shit since you’re with me.” 

“Why’s that?” 

“Since my parents aren’t around anymore he says he’s taken me in, he ‘already has seven daughters so what's another one’” 

Dom laughed and rubbed his thumb over her knuckles as they approached the entrance to Dionysus, “it’s good you have people looking out for you though. I can’t wait to meet him.” 

“We’ll see if he’s working or if it’s one of the girls,” she said, pushing the door open and hearing the bells ring as the door closed behind them. 

The place was moderately packed for a Friday afternoon, behind the counter stood a dark haired girl no older than 20 ready to greet them. “Καλωσόρισμα, Drea! You brought a friend, Μπαμπάς will be happy to hear” 

“Dimitra, it’s good to see you. This is Dominique Luca he’s-” 

“Boyfriend?” 

Harper’s cheeks warmed and looked up at Dom who just smiled before answering, “This is our first date Dimitra, but I’m hoping she’ll have me.” 

He gave Harper’s hand another squeeze as Dimitra smirked at the two of them before yelling to the back “Daphne! έφερε ένα αγόρι!” 

“Dimitra, you better not be calling all of the girls down.” She was still trying to process what Dom just admitted to her to have to deal with all of the boisterous girls. 

Dimitra just rolled her eyes, “Dysis and Daria are at college today Drea, no worries there, the other three are still in school. Order something already before the line builds again.” 

After quickly ordering they took a seat at the end of the bar. A younger girl, Dom is assuming Daphne, came out with their drinks before disappearing to the back again. “Why did she call you Drea?” 

Harper took a sip of her water before answering, “it’s what Dio calls me- so I have a Greek name to go with the rest of his girls. I’m surprised there's any Greek names that being with ‘D’ left after Dorothea was born” 

Dom chuckled and nudged her shoulder, “I think it’s wonderful Harper.” Their orders arrived and they started to eat. After a while Dom spoke again, “So how long have your parent’s been gone?” 

She spun her fork around a few times, “my baba- my dad died when I was six. And mom when I was 15. Are your parents still around?” 

“I’m sorry to hear that, Harper. My mom and dad are still around - they live in Simi valley, that’s where I grew up. Where did you grow up?”

Harper bit her lip, “I was born in Wisconsin, but moved to Sacramento with my mom after dad died, then moved down to LA for school.” 

“Where did you attend?” 

“UCLA for all three.”

Dom almost spit out his drink, “three??” 

“Um, yea. I double majored in Business admin and social work, before going back for a masters in Public Admin and then another one in counseling… It was a lot, and more than I ever thought I would do. But they were what I needed for HOME to be successful.” 

“Wait, you started HOME? I just thought you ran it?” 

“I did, yea - it’s a long story.” 

“That’s - wow Harper that’s incredible. That must have taken forever, you have a lot of dedication.” 

She smiled up at him, “It was worth every minute. I’m sure you feel the same about SWAT. Jess has told me how hard the process is.” 

“It was a lot- they push you hard cause you need to be the best. I kind of got the brunt of it when I was going through.” 

“Why?” 

“They didn’t want me thinking just because my pops and grandpa were SWAT that I was a shoo in. They wanted to see if I was worthy just like everyone else going through it.”  

“That sucks but it makes sense. Was it what you’ve always wanted to do?” 

“Oh yea, since I was little.” 

Dimitra walked over to them refilling their drinks, “do you two want anything else?” 

Harper looked up at Dom who shook his head, “just the check please.” 

Before Harper could react Dom had his card in Dimitra's hand “this was amazing, thank you.” 

After Dimitra walked away Harper turned to look at him. “Dom, I was going to pay. I asked you to lunch.” 

He just smirked at her, “better luck next time." Dimitra came back with Dom's card. After the two of them rose and started for the exit. "Speaking of next time, are you free tomorrow?” 

“I just have plans tomorrow night with the girls- but I’m free before that.” She looked up at him questioningly, “what are you plotting?” 

“Have you ever been to the Last Bookstore?” 

Her eyes lit up, “no - I’ve always wanted to go though.” 

“Good- I’ll pick you up tomorrow around 10, that way we get there when it opens. Then we can grab lunch afterwards.” He grabbed her hand again as they started walking back to her building. 

"I'll send you my address later- you might have to remind me." 

Before they reached Harper's building, Dom stopped causing her to look up at him. Oh fuck he's going to-

"Can I kiss you?" the hand that wasn't holding hers cupped her neck, brushing his thumb along her jaw. 

Finally. She nodded gripping the front of his shirt as he leaned down grazing his lips against hers, making her melt. He let go of her hand and wrapped it around her waist pulling her closer. Allowing Harper to put her now free hand up on his bicep. I've been wanting to touch these since yesterday. 

Too soon he pulled away looking down at her, "fuck I've wanted to do that since I walked into your office." 

Harper chuckled, "I would've let you." 

He gave her another chaste kiss before letting her go, "I'll let you get back to work. But I'll be at your place at 10 tomorrow for our date." 

She smirked, "I'll be waiting." 

Chapter Text

Saturday Sun

I fell (I fell)

So fast (so fast)

Can’t hold myself back (back, back)

High heels (high heels)

Red dress (red dress)

All by yourself

Gotta catch my breath

- Burnin’ up by Jonas Brothers

Harper’s House (9:55 AM) 

Dom’s POV 

Dominique rolled up to a well kept front lawn that had blue and pink flowers decorating the walkway to her front door. In the window he could see a fluffy gray cat lounging in the window sill - paying no attention to him. Dom smiled, I wonder if she likes dogs too . 

He took the next two steps to the front door and knocked. He heard a faint “just a minute” from inside - he stepped back from the door and took in the fact that it was reinforced steel he tilted his head in thought. Why would she need this? Ok Luca - she works in domestic violence right? So could– 

His mind quickly changed topics when she opened the door - the smell of birchwood and vanilla hit him first. She had her curly hair down, which reached just past her shoulders. 

Oh DAMN , he thought.

 Dom was under the impression that Harper in business clothes was his vice. But her in this red summer dress? He was going to die of a heart attack, if his lack of breathing normally didn’t take him out first.

“Hi” she laughed, smiling up at him. Whatever face he was making must have been amusing.

He stepped forward wrapping his arms around her waist, “hi yourself. You’re stunning.” 

She wrapped her arms up around his neck tugging his head down, brushing her lips to his. He held her tight against him moving one of his hands up her back to grip the back of her neck. Dom ran his tongue along her bottom lip, which she opened for him. He groaned, her hands going into his hair. She tastes like coffee, of course. 

“Harper,” he rasped, resting his head against hers. 

“Dominique,” she answered, panting lightly. 

He chuckled, squeezing her hip before tilting his head and kissing her again softly. “Are you ready to go?” 

“Yea,” she stepped back inside, grabbed her purse, and armed her security system before locking the door behind her. 

“You’ve got quite the set up,” he said, knocking on the door as she put her keys away. 

“You think so?” She stepped back to look at the door before looking up to see him still checking out her front door. “I’ve had one or two former partners of people who have sought out help with HOME come here to give me their two cents. They don’t make it past the door.” 

Dom’s head whipped to look at her “You're serious?” 

She squeezed his hand as they walked to his truck, “yea, but like I said, over the last ten years it’s only happened once or twice.” He stopped beside the truck, having the look of bewilderment on his face. “It’s not as bad as it sounds.” 

He huffed out a breath before opening her door, “Why can’t they take the hint?” 

She chuckled, “Thank you. You’re really going to tell me you haven’t faced down criminals who can’t take the hint?” 

Dom got in the cab and looked over at her, “yea, you’re right, I just don’t like it.” Starting the car, he backed out of her driveway and started heading towards the Historical Core. “So, you have a cat?” 

“Oh yea, that’s my old man Ernie. Maggie and Rashida kept bugging me that I needed a man, so I adopted one.” 

Dom cackled and reached for her hand again, “I’m sure they loved that.” 

“He’s the perfect man! Takes care of himself, pees in a box, occasionally likes to snuggle, and he’s good with kids,” she said laughing. 

“What more could a girl want?” He laughed, rubbing her knuckles. 

She squeezed his hand, “A guy who makes me laugh and brings me coffee when he knows I’ve had a long day is a pretty good start.” 

“So what, I’m on the same level as Ernie?” he brought the hand he was holding to his lips.

“Nah - you’re like three below,” Dom playfully bit the ball of her palm making her squeal and try to pull her hand away. “Alright! Alright! Only one below Ernie.” 

He kissed where he nipped her, “I’ll take that.” 

She chortled, “sure you will.” She leaned over and kissed his cheek, “this is a really nice truck by the way, I love the color.” 

“1968 Chevy Cheyenne. It was my grandads, it came to me when he passed.” 

“I’m sorry to hear that Dom. That’s not easy.” 

“It’s alright, it was over a year ago now. Do you have any grandparents still around?” 

She played with his fingers while he drove through traffic, “technically yes. My dad’s parents died when I was a baby so I never really got to know them. My mom’s parents disowned her when she married my dad. He was half black, they didn’t like that.” 

Dom huffed out a breath gripping the steering wheel tighter, “you can’t be serious.” 

Harper shrugged, biting the inside of her cheek, “It’s the way it was in their time. It’s the way some people still think.” 

“Doesn’t make it right.” 

“No, it doesn’t,” She sighed looking over at him. “Can we talk about anything else? Do you have any pets?”

“Of course, Honey. Yea I have a retired police dog named Duke- I’ve only had him for six months but he’s my buddy. Definitely ranks above you.” 

She let out a fake gasp of hurt “oh, make it make sense!” She laughed and looked over at him, “I love dogs, I can’t wait to meet him.” 

Dom kissed her hand again, chuckling, “you will. Now some real questions: You’ve been in LA for over ten years, including school right?” 

“Yea, with school it’s been around 15.” 

“How have you lived here for 15 years and haven’t made it out to the one place in LA that is a bookworm’s dream come true?” 

“I’ve been busy!” She giggled, “I’m really, really excited though. It’s been something on my bucket list.”

“What else is on your bucket list?” 

Harper hummed in thought, “See the seven wonders, go swimming with those jelly fish that don’t sting, help 200,000 people through HOME, start a family, travel back to Madison to visit my dad and grandparents graves and our old home. Those are the only ones I can think of, I have them written down at home.” 

“Those are all good ones. How many people have you helped so far?” 

“Last year we were just under 140,000. We announce it at our annual gala, then it goes into our yearly financial report. What about you? What’s on your bucket list?” 

He smiled looking over at her, “do a road trip along the whole California coast- I haven’t decided if I want to go North to South or South to North. Help out my friends whenever I can and however I can, fix up my house, and start a family as well.” 

“Those are great ones Dom.” She fiddled with his fingers again and watched out the window, “so you want kids?” 

“Yes I do. Like two or three. What about you?” 

She chuckled, “you’re going to think I’m crazy.” 

“Oh boy, how many?” he laughed. 

“Ok it’s not that bad! I want five. Like I want to adopt, and have some if I can.” 

“Ok, that’s not that bad. I thought you were going to say something completely crazy. Like Duggar level crazy.” 

She cackled, “absolutely not. No, but I see people like Rashida and Maggie with their boys, or Dio and Naomi with their girls, I want something like that. Not all the D names, but you get where I’m going.” 

“I do. We’re almost there.” Dom let go of her hand so he could parallel park into a spot, “game plan: we’ve got about 20 minutes until they open, Wanna grab a coffee and then wait in line?” 

“Sounds good to me.” 

He put the car in park and unbuckled his seatbelt before he turned to look over at Harper who was smiling at him. Her eyes are so gorgeous, he thought to himself, not for the first time. His eyes trailed down taking in the sight of her in his truck, thanking whatever deity was looking out of him two days ago. Dom’s eyes trailed back up her neck and landed on her lips, then he reached for her, “come here, Harper.” 

She unbuckled her seatbelt and slid over the bench seat to his arms without hesitation. Wrapping her arms around his neck she purred, “you know, we could just make out for 20 minutes then get in line?” 

He ghosted his lips over hers, putting one of his hands on her knee where her dress ended and used his other to wrap his arm around her waist, “you’re saying ‘no’ to coffee just to make out?” 

She pecked his lips, “maybe.” 

Dom smiled and pecked her lips back, “don’t have to ask me twice.” He said before crashing his lips against hers. She wiggled trying to get closer to him as he explored the inside of her mouth with his tongue. He moved his hand up to cup her cheek, leaning her head up to kiss her deeper. 

She moaned against his mouth carding her fingers through his hair before pulling away to breath. “You’re really good at that,” she said, giggling softly. 

“You’re not so bad yourself,” he mumbled against her lips, smiling. Dom trailed kisses along her jaw before going back to her mouth. He was about to deepen the kiss again when he suddenly had a knock on his windshield. He whipped his head around to see a very smug looking police officer staring at him. “Ah fuck me”, he muttered rolling his window down. 

The officer stepped closer looking between Dom, who looked annoyed and Harper, who looked flustered, “Officer Luca.” 

“Officer DeSoto. Is there a problem?” 

The officer shook his head, smirking before replying dryly, “no, of course not Luca, just wanted to make sure no one needed medical attention.” Harper gaped, catching his overtone.

Dom looked confused, “why woul-” 

“Dom don’t-” Harper tried to interrupt. 

“It looked like you were checking her for tonsillitis with your tongue,” he said before doubling over laughing. 

Harper buried her face in Dom’s shoulder, mortified at being caught making out like a teenager AND being made fun of for it. 

“I can’t wait to tell everyone at the station that I caught you canoodling.” 

Dom groaned, “Rick, this is Harper. Harper, Officer Rick DeSoto. I used to patrol with him when I started out.” 

Harper’s face was still on fire when she gave a wave to the officer, “it’s nice to meet you.” 

Rick’s grin grew like the Cheshire cat’s, “how long have you been seeing dear Luca?” 

Like hell was she letting him embarrass her or Dom more, she stood her ground. “Not that it’s any of your business, but this is our second date.” Harper sassed.

He seemed to find that amusing. “What’s your last name?” 

She smirked, “you wanna see my license? I’m sure that’ll make things quicker for you.” She felt Dom’s body rumble as he tried not to laugh at their exchange.

Rick barked out a quick laugh, “you’ve got a live one there Luca,” he said while backing away, “no more making out in the car you two. Have a good day.” 

After Dom rolled up his window he looked over at Harper who was still right next to him trying to suppress her laughter. He started to chuckle as she covered her face with her hands, “that was so embarrassing.” 

Dom started laughing hysterically at her admission, “oh god, everyone is going to know within the hour.” 

This caused Harper to crack up with him, “they’re going to give you so much grief on Monday. Poor Dominique.” She leaned over and kissed his cheek once the worst of the laughter was gone. 

“You think they’ll wait till Monday? I’m going to need plenty of kisses to make it through that.” 

She giggled and kissed him lightly, “Sure thing. But maybe not somewhere we can get charged with public indecency?” 

Dom chuckled, nipping at her lips before opening his door. “Come on, let's get in line before I change my mind about getting cited for that.” 

She slid over to exit out of his door, “well we could make out while in line ya know? Get a write up that way.” 

He groaned, caging her between the door and himself, “you’re going to be the death of me.” 

She had the gall to smile up at him like she was accepting that as a challenge, “I could say the same thing about you.” Harper pecked his lips once more before sliding out so her feet touched the pavement, “come on, I do actually want to see more than the outside of this place.” 

Dom laughed and locked the truck, following her to the sidewalk and taking her hand in his again. 

The Last Bookstore 

Harper’s POV

The sheer size of this place was overwhelming, but in the best way possible. For the last two hours, Harper tugged Dom along the different floors of the bookstore, taking pictures and commenting on the set up, before starting a second lap around. 

“Are you actually going to look for books this time?” Dom teased 

She bumped his shoulder, “yea I am, then we will hit the merch section.” She leaned up and kissed his cheek, “thank you for bringing me here. This is amazing.” 

He smiled down at her, “I’d gladly walk around this place as many times as you want to keep you smiling like this.” 

 “Such a sap,” she teased, feeling her cheeks warm at his admission. 

Harper only ended up picking up three books that have been on her reading list for some time and a tote bag with the famous book archway printed on the side. Then got in line to wait for the checkout. 

“Are you not going to buy anything?” 

He fiddled with the sleeves of his jacket, “nah, I’m not much of a reader. I have dyslexia, I wasn’t diagnosed until I was 14 so I always struggled, but even after we figured it out I never found any that could keep my attention like other things.”

“Everyone has their things they enjoy. What do you like to do for fun?” 

“Lot’s of things- playing video games, working out, hanging out with my friends, going exploring, trying different food trucks.” 

They reached the front of the line and Harper already had her card out knowing that Dom would try and pull a fast one again. When they walked out he pouted and muttered something about how he wanted to pay. Which made her laugh before replying “better luck next time.” 

He smiled softly at her, reaching for her hand again to wander down the street. “I want a lot of those.” 

Harper’s eyebrows furrower and looked at him, “a lot of what?” 

He winked at her, “next times.” 

She tipped her head back and cackled, “that was so cheesy,” she teased, squeezing his hand. “So do I.” 

Chapter Text

I Saw Her Standing There 

But I could get used to this

The way we talk and all you give

I could get used to this (I could get used to this)

The way I feel when we kiss

I could get used to this (I could get used to this)

- I Could Get Used to This by Becky Hill 

Hernandez’s Taco Truck 

Dom POV 

How the hell is she holding her plate AND coke with one hand?

They were currently standing under an awning waiting for a table to clear for them. Harper was holding her bottle of coke between her pointer and middle finger, all the while her other fingers were hooked around the paper boat holding her tacos. Her other hand, the one not performing magic, was holding a taco. She was solely focused on making sure the taco makes it to its designated target, her mouth. 

Harper must have felt him staring, because she looked up at him. “Do I have something on my face?” 

“How are your fingers not breaking from how you hold your stuff? I can hold your drink for you, or we can sit it on the window sill.” 

She just smiled, “it’s a gift all women possess. Since barely any of our clothes have pockets, or barely a pocket, we’ve adapted to carrying several things with our hands while performing tasks.” 

He shakes his head, chuckling, “is that why you have that massive brown bag that you had when I first met you? Because of a lack of pockets?” 

She finished her first taco and took a swig of her drink. “No, that’s my ‘office’ for when I’m not in my office. It holds everything in there, laptop, water, snacks, business cards, journal –” 

“Three small children?” 

Harper rolled her eyes at him, “I probably could. I do have a pair of crocs usually in there, especially if I’m wearing heels that day.” 

“How many do you own?” 

“Probably around 10? My staff likes to get them for me for my birthday and holidays. Or they get gibits to put on them. So I keep some at the office and at home.”

“When is your birthday?”

“April 29th. You?” 

“That’s coming up soon. Mine is July 13th. What do you like to do for your birthday?” 

She took another bite of her last taco, the plate stayed hovering under her chin. “I usually have dinner with the girls and their families, some years Dio, Naomi and their girls join in, that’s about it-” her eyes caught movement over his shoulder, “table opening up let’s move .” she quickly weaved between tables to snag the open seat, Dom laughing behind her trying to keep up.

Harper was grinning victoriously as she set down her drink and plate. “It's your turn, what’s something you do everyday?” 

“I keep a journal, it was something my grandpa instilled in me that I still keep to.” 

“Interesting, what all do you write?” 

“Anything and everything really; what happened that day, who I talked to, my thoughts, a case I worked on, things like that.” 

“That’s wonderful. Takes some dedication.” 

“Do you keep a journal?” 

She fiddled with her fingers. “I did when I was younger, now it’s mostly me making to do lists. Who’s your celebrity crush?” 

“Beyoncé,” he answered with no hesitation. 

She tipped her head back and laughed, “that was so fast.” 

He chuckled and shrugged, “her music speaks to me. And she’s just amazing.” 

Harper smiled at him, “I can agree with that, what’s your favorite song?” 

“That's tough, but it's gotta be ‘Halo’. That’s the one I can sing along to the best anyways. Do you have a favorite song from her?”

“Probably ‘Start Over’, it’s also hard for me, I love a lot of Destiny’s Child songs too.” 

He rubbed his hands trying to think of a question. "What’s your favorite part about running HOME?” 

“I mean, the simple answer is I love helping people, which is the obvious answer. But I love sneaking down to our daycare center to goof off. I have to be sneaky though, cause Devin gets mad when she can’t find me in the building.” 

Dom chuckled at that, “So if I visit and can’t find you?” 

She shook her head, “you wouldn’t be able to get up there for security reasons. Devin would have to come and drag me back.” 

“That would be a sight to see,” he snickered. He took both of their empty plates and tossed them into the trash while she took care of their drinks. “That was really good. Wanna get some desert?” 

“Oh heck yea. Let's do some research,” she pulled out her phone and started tapping away. 

“What are you doing?” 

“Looking at the food truck app, I want to see what desert trucks are nearby.” 

“You have the app?” 

She looked up at him like he was crazy, “you don’t? It’s frickin awesome.” 

She was busy staring down at her phone to notice the smile on his face.

Oh 

So this is what it feels like to find your person

He moved to be right next to her and leaned in to look at her phone, “what are our options?” 

—---- 

Later that afternoon 

Harper POV 

Harper’s stomach hurt from laughing as they drove back to her place. The two of them were singing along to Destiny's Child. Terribly.

“I like them boys up top from the BK” 

“BK!” shouted Dom, causing Harper to start cackling again, he had been singing the antiphony in every song they’ve played so far. 

“It’s a good thing you didn’t try singing to Beyoncé when you met her.” 

He chuckled, “it’s probably for the best, I don’t think I would like being on tour.” 

She shook her head at his disillusionment, “riiiigghhht.” 

“Like could you imagine being on the road like that? No thank you - not the way I wanna travel.” 

“I can agree with you, I’d miss everyone too much to be gone for that long.” 

He reached for her hand again and used it as a microphone, “If your status ain’t hood -”

“I ain't checkin' for him -” 

“Better be street if he lookin' at me - I NEED A SOLDIER” he squealed out in a terrible attempt to hit the high note, causing another round of hysterical laughter from both of them. 

“So you have plans with ‘the girls’ tonight?” 

“Yea, monthly girls night. Rashida and Maggie get baby sitters and we go have some fun. Maggie chose this time, so we’re going to a club that plays 90’s and early 2000’s R&B.” 

“That sounds like so much fun.” 

“They love to dance. I mean I do too, but I act more as the babysitter so they can get a little wild.” 

“Do you ever let loose?” 

She looked out the windshield, seeing the familiar houses of her neighborhood, “I mean, yes, just not usually to the degree that others do. I like to be aware when I’m in public I guess.” 

He squeezed the hand he was still holding, “I get that.” 

The conversation died down once they reached her driveway, slowly pulling in before parking. She sighed as she opened her door, Dom came around the cab of the truck to help her out. 

“I had a lot of fun today Harper.” 

“I did too Dom, thank you for taking me.” 

“When can I see you again?” 

She smiled, happy that he wanted to see her more. “I should be free on Wednesday night. Do you work?” 

“I’m on call, but as long as I don't get called on that day it should be fine. Do you want to grab dinner?” 

“That sounds like fun,” she turned to him when they reached her front door, “you’re still going to text me between now and then right?” 

“Like I would ever want to go that long without talking to you.” He moved closer to her cupping her face with one of his hands. 

She snaked her arms around his shoulders, “you’re such a sap, I like it.” 

Dom chuckled and he wrapped his free arm around her waist, pulling her close, “is that all you like?” His lips were so close to hers she felt his breath on her lips. 

She shook her head, “not even close to the only thing.” She went on her toes slightly to peck his lips. “And I feel the list will continue to grow the more I know you.” 

She could feel him smiling more than she could see it, their faces were so close together. He tilted her face up and kissed her deeply. This felt different than when they were in his truck, this kiss is a promise for more. 

I like the feeling of this. I like what he’s making me feel.  Harper sighed into the kiss, running her tongue along his when a booming voice broke broke them apart -

“OH OK HARPER YOU. GET. IT. GURRLLLL.” Followed by a sexy whistle and another female voice joining in on the cheering. 

Harper pushed Dom back and covered her mouth, her face was burning.

Not again! 

“This cannot be fucking happening again,” she mumbled through her hand. 

Dom just chuckled, turning towards the voices that were yelling from across the street. He saw Maggie standing next to another woman he did not recognize. Keeping an arm around Harper, he waved at them, “hello ladies.” 

Maggie rolled her eyes, waving back, “hey there! This loud mouth is Rashida” 

“Hi Dominique,” said Rashida in a teasing tone. 

“It’s nice to meet you Rashida” 

Harper nudged his side, “I should take a nap before we head out for the night. I’ll talk to you later?” 

“You better believe it.” He kissed her one last time, prompting another round of cheering from the girls, before he turned and started walking for his truck, “ladies, have fun tonight.”

They all waved as he drove off.

Harper was the first to speak. “Did you HAVE to do that?” 

“Yes.” they replied in unison. 

Harper huffed out a breath before turning toward her front door, wanting to get a two hour nap before she started getting ready for girls night.

Feel like I’m going to need it tonight. 

Chapter Text

Where the Party At 

The Baddest Bitches have a set of rules that they try to stick to when they are out. 

1. Two girls together at all times. Or at least in eyesight of each other.

Jess made the rule (shocker, I know), but the only ones who consistently follow this rule are Jess and Harper, which subsequently puts them on babysitting duty with Maggie and Rashida.

2. No dancing with men who are ‘beneath’ you

             2.1 If someone does not like whoever they are currently dancing with, it is the other members responsibility to snatch them away from whoever they are with. 

Rashida’s rules. She is usually the one who will snatch other girls away when someone fits these requirements.

3. If a boy offers to buy you a drink you go get the drink 

Another Jess rule that everyone has followed since the beginning of time. Perks of being a girl.

4. Always leave with everyone you came with

5. Absolutely no pictures posted to socials of them out 

This was mainly for Harper and Jess, but applied to all four of them.

While their are more rules (the girls sometimes liked to bend the those), they always stuck to these five. 

---- 

Harper felt good, knew she looked good too- not that the girls would let her leave the house looking less than a 10.

Rashida convinced her to wear tight stonewashed jeans paired with a lace bodysuit that made her waist look snatched and an open flannel over it. She wasn’t going to be picking up anyone tonight, she was just here to be with her girls. Looking to her right, she spotted Rashida who was dancing her way to a free round of drinks. Jess and Maggie were dancing together and singing along to the song. She smiled, it had been 10 months since all four of them were able to come out to a bar like this and she missed it. 

Harper ran her hands down her body swaying to Baby Boy playing on the speakers when Rashida grabbed her wrist and tugged her to the bar. “How the fuck does Maggie find these places? This is such a throwback. I swear to god if they play DMX I’m going to lose my shit.” Rashida looked like she came straight out of an Aailyah music video - low rise cargo pants, cropped shirt, and a do rag. 

Harper laughed, “I agree, the music has been on point tonight. I’ll lose MY shit if they play blackstreet.” She looked back to Jess and Maggie signaling to them to ask if they wanted drinks, both nodded yes. Rashida pushed her way to the bar and worked her charm.

Jess and Maggie made their way to the side of the dance floor and took their drinks. Jess turned to Harper “you didn’t say how your date went!” 

She knew she was smiling like a loon but she was too happy to care. The whole date was carefree and fun, unlike any previous dates she’s tried to go on over the years. “He took me to the Last Bookstore! Then we went to a few food trucks. We talked a lot. We have another date on Wednesday. It was perfect.” 

“I mean besides Mags and I catching you making out on your front steps?” 

Her face heated up “god- that was the second time we were interrupted when trying to make out! It was so embarrassing.“ 

Shida howled with laughter. “What was the first time?” 

“One of his cop friends caught us kissing in his truck!” Jess smiled, taking a sip of her drink but not saying anything. Harper narrowed her eyes. “You already heard about it.” 

The girls laughed when Jess shrugged, “ Everyone has heard about it. I can’t wait to see him at HQ on Monday getting teased.” Harper groaned as they started talking about the gossip network known as LAPDs grapevine and how (to Harper’s further embarrassment) Jess had heard about the ‘Luca canoodling incident’ before her and Dom were even done exploring the bookstore.

Thankfully, a new song started up through the speakers, causing Maggie, Jess, and Harper’s heads to snap towards Rashida. Ruff Ryders’ Anthem started to play. Rashida was already making her way towards the middle of the dancefloor “LETS GOOOOO GIRLS”. 

The night continued just like that, hit after hit played, they danced with each other and strangers but kept to their rules. By midnight Jess and Harper were sitting at the bar taking a break and nursing waters. Jess nudged her shoulder, smiling “good thing you gave Luca a chance right?” 

Harper rolled her eyes, “yea it is. But it’s still early though. We’re both in demanding jobs, I’ll be interested to see how it’ll work long term.” 

Jess sat her empty glass down for the bartender to take, “I won’t lie and say it’s easy because it isn’t. It takes work, but it can be worth it if you try.” 

Do I want to try? 

Harper thought back to the last few days. Talking with him was easy, laughing and making jabs at each other was like second nature. She liked his flirty texting, and random updates throughout the day. She felt a calmness with him that she hadn’t felt in a long time, she could start to see outlines of happiness. 

Yea. I want to try. 

—-

By 2 am they were all piled into an Uber and heading back to Rashida’s for the night. All of them had a good buzz going but were ready to get back home and in their sweatpants. Rashida’s house was always where they would go after nights out. She had enough beds for everyone and a spare bathroom, a blessing for four girls in one house. 

After washing off the sweat and booze they piled onto the couch, Keeping Up With the Kardashians playing softly on the TV. Harper looked at each of her best friends, “I’m so glad I have you three.” 

Maggie just rolled her eyes, “bitch please, like you could get rid of us.” 

Rashida wrapped her in a tight hug, “I love buzzed Harper, she’s always so lovey dovey.” 

“Guys I’m being serious, I don’t know what I’d do without you all.” 

Jess reached over and squeezed her hand. “You would have been fine. Probably not as fun, but you would have made it H. Of that I have no doubt.” 

Harper smiled and leaned on Rashida. 

Maggie broke the silence. “So we going to give this blond boy a chance or what, H?” 

She laughed, “yes Mags, I already had a talk with Jess at the club, I’m going to try and see if it works.” 

 Rashida hummed, “romantic relationships are a lot of work but worth it for the right person. You’ve got to be willing to try and compromise and talk things out.” 

Harper tilted her head back to look at Rashida, “Why did you say ‘ compromise’ like that? I know how to do that” 

Jess let out a short laugh, “oh please, you’re as stubborn as they come. And you hate being wrong.” 

“Well, yea. But I’m usually right” 

“Except when you’re not,” Maggie retorted.

“Which isn’t often!” Harper whined, pouting at Maggie.

Rashida piped in, “that is beside the point. What we’re trying to say is when you have problems or something doesn’t feel right, instead of you just deciding to peace the scene, you need to talk it out and try to make it right with him.” 

Harper pursed her lips in thought,  “how do you all make it work?” 

Jess shrugged. “We talk, we say what’s wrong and what’s bothering us. Obviously I can’t get too detailed with cases and everything that happens at work. But he listens and takes note.”

Maggie nodded, “your problem is that you don’t like to talk about things that are bothering you. You like to just breeze through things then struggle on your own.” 

She fiddled with the strings of her sweats, before nodding. “So talk about what’s bothering me.” 

Shida nodded, “and tell him about yourself. Share the good and the bad.” 

Harper made a noncommittal sound in the back of her throat. The girls continued to talk, catching up on a month’s worth of escapades that couldn’t be said over the group chat. Before they all decided to head to their predestined beds for the night. Harper stayed awake for a while after that thinking of their conversation. 

The good and the bad

Harper twisted around in the bed and sighed. 

This is going to get interesting

Chapter Text

Wonderwall

So everyday I spend my time

Drinking wine, feeling fine

Waiting here to find the sign

That I should take it slow (here I go)

- Everyday by A$AP Rocky 

Monday Morning

Maggie’s Mocha and Music 

Harper POV 

“So what are the plans for Wednesday?” 

Harper sighed looking at Maggie, who was currently holding her coffee and scone hostage until she answered her questions. “We’re just getting dinner Mags, we have narrowed it down to Thai food, but that’s about it.” 

“ Just ‘dinner’?” 

“Yes Magnolia, now can I please have my coffee? I’m really sleepy.” 

“Well if ya didn’t stay up all night texting prince charming we wouldn’t have this issue.” 

“I wasn’t up that late. It’s not like I can ever sleep anyways.” 

Mags handed her items over, “have a good day babe. I’ll see you on Wednesday.” 

“Love you Mags, I’ll see you then.” 

She hustled to her car and checked her phone before she started her commute

Dom 💙: Found a pic of Duke from his working days 

Harper: ❤️❤️❤️ Precious baby. Is he at home today? 

Dom💙: Today he is, I’ll sometimes have someone watch him or just bring him into work with me, but he was being lazy today. 

Harper: I feel that - I usually function on little sleep, but maybe we shouldn’t stay up until 2 AM on the phone. I’m too old for that 

Dom 💙: Knock that off - you’re younger than me by like 10 years

Harper: I don’t feel like it today lol. Good luck with your team today 😘 stay safe

Dom 💙: such a supportive girlfriend 😒😂

Dom 💙: You have a good day, I’ll call you later 😙

SWAT Headquarters 

Luca POV 

It happened as soon as Luca came in the main doors. The egging, the teasing, all good natured and he didn’t care cause at the end of it, he still has Harper. The worst of the ribbing happened when he got into the locker room, where some of the 20-David squad was getting ready for the day. 

Tan started it off, “Luca, anything fun or illegal happened during our long weekend?” 

He huffed a laugh trying to hide his blush while changing, “I had a few fun things happen this weekend.” 

Deacon turned around to look at him, “so the canoodling is true?” 

Luca looked over at Deac, “why are we using the word canoodling?” 

Tan crossed his arms, “you’re deflecting. Means you’re guilty.” 

Chris came barreling into the locker room followed closely by Street, she pointed her finger at Luca  “I set you up with the best date idea and you get caught sucking face in your car? Really?” 

Now it’s sucking face? He sat down on the bench to lace up his boots smiling to himself. 

Tan looked over to Chris, “What do you know about this?” 

Chris smirked, “My information is not free, Tan.” Tan threw two of her favorite protein bars her way as payment. Chris let out a gleeful ‘yessss’ for she began, “Her name is Har-” 

“Chris, let our man Luca share this information. ‘Cause you better believe we all need to hear this from the source.” Hondo was rubbing his hands together in anticipation as he sat down on the bench. 

Luca stood up to face everyone. “There’s no way I’m getting out of this, right?” 

Hondo laughed, “absolutely not. Come on now Luca, share with the class.” 

He pulled out his phone, “I feel like this is a press release or something.” Dom lit up his lock screen to show everyone a picture of the two of them he took on their second date. Luca had his arm wrapped around Harper and she had her head on his shoulder, both smiling at the camera. “Her name is Harper Murapi, we’ve been on two dates so far. She’s crazy smart and fun to be around. We met at a coffee shop in East Hollywood. I will now be taking questions.” 

Chris’s hand shot up, “did she like the date I planned out for you?” 

“Yes Chris, she loved it.” 

Street looked at Chris, “Wait, have you met this girl?” Chris shook her head no. Then he turned his head to Luca. “Luca, she's already your screen saver - has she moved in already?” 

That caused a chorus of laughter amongst the team. Dom rolled his eyes at Street, “nah man it’s not like that. She has her own house like three blocks away. She’s been there for ten years-  besides we’re gonna take things slow.” 

Tan raised his hand, then acted like a reporter, using his hand as a mic, “there’s a rumor going around about you and this ‘Harper’ woman having relations in a Chevy Cheyenne. Care to elaborate?” his hand ‘mic’ pointed toward Luca. Chris and Street snickered.

Annnnndd there it is. Luca smiled and puffed his chest out “yes, on Saturday around 1100, I was caught making out with Harper in my truck by Officer DeSoto, and I’d do it again.” 

The team wolf whistled and cackled at Luca’s honesty. his phone was still being passed around before Hondo had it in his hand. “Oh hold up hold up. You’re seeing THIS Harper?”    

He cocked his head, “you know her?” 

He shook his head, and started tapping away on his phone before showing Luca a photo. “my man, she was a winner in LAs 30 under 30 a few years back. My mama knows her through volunteering. She ranted and raved about her for months after this win.” 

“No way, let me see! She hasn’t told me about that.” The photo was just a headshot, but it gave him a glance of the ‘I mean business’ side of Harper. She had her hair wrapped up in a purple and blue headscarf with those same butterfly earrings he was when he first met her. Why isn’t she smiling? 

Deacon broke the silence “30 under 30? For what?” 

Hondo handed his phone to Decs, “social impact I think, she runs a domestic abuse shelter right? Mama says she’s a very sweet girl Luca” He looked over to Luca. 

“She’s amazing. And yea, she’s been running it for like ten years? She’s really built it up, the building it’s in -“ 

An alert came in on all their phones prompting Hondo to stand, “Alright. Interrogation is over for now. Let’s roll out.” 

Luca came up to Hondo as they were heading to Black Betty “can you send me that article? I want to read that later.” 

“Sure thing Luca.” 

Black Betty 

Chris POV 

Chris leaned forward to whisper to the group “Is anyone going to check her out?” 

Tan leaned forward with her, “I don’t think Luca would like that very much. And besides, we don't do that unless it’s serious. Like marriage serious” 

“He already made her his lock screen. He never does that!” Chris whisper yelled to them. 

Deacon shook his head and murmured “she’s got a good head on her shoulders if she’s running a nonprofit like you said. What else did he tell you about her?” He glanced over to the driver's seat where Luca was weaving between traffic. 

Chris shrugged, “she likes to read, she's lived in East Hollywood for a few years now. I don’t know- introductory stuff.” Chris looked to the front seats at Luca then at Street “I just don’t want him to get his hopes up again you know?” 

Hondo shook his head at them, “He’s got a big heart I know. But he’s a big boy, he'll figure it out Chris. Just let it lay.” 

“One minute out!” Luca shouted 

 “Besides, we’ve got bigger fish to fry now.” 

HOME Headquarters 

Harpers POV 

Harper shifted her hips again trying to get comfortable on the floor of the playroom. She currently had three girls around her playing make believe scenarios with their barbies. She felt her work phone ping for the third time without looking to see who it was. She already knew. 

  Devin is going to be pissed. 

“Miss Harper, is that your phone?” 

“Yes sweetie, it is. Someone is probably wondering where I am, can I tell you a secret?” She nodded and scooted closer to Harper, “I snuck down here to play with you guys.” 

She gasped like she couldn’t believe what Harper just said, “won’t you get in trouble with your boss?” 

Harper shook her head, “I don’t have a boss really, but my assistant will be wondering where I ran off too again.” 

“No, She knows where you are,” Harper whipped her head around to see Devin with her hands on her hips, “your assistant is pretty smart. She shared your phone location with her, so she knows when you run off to play.” 

“Ruh roh. Busted.” The young girls started laughing at Harper for getting ‘in trouble’. With a groan she stretched her legs out before getting a hand from Devin to get back on her feet. “Sorry girls, I’ll try and play with y’all later ok?” 

They all waved at her as Devin and Harper made their way to the elevator. “You have like three missed calls - I was sending them to your office thinking you were in there! I haven’t even left my desk for the past three hours, how did you sneak away?” 

“Sorry Dev - it’s a secret. But the girls asked me earlier if I could play and you know I can’t say no to them.” 

Devin sighed and looked over to her before handing Harper’s bag over “you’ll get better at it when you’re a mom, trust me.” 

Harper just shook her head smiling. “I saw the emails while I was heading down here - we have three more properties lined up? Have you had a chance to look at them? Is that where we’re going?” 

“No, I’m heading out to do that now. You need to leave too, we’ve got a big case coming in that will need your attention.” 

“Where do you need me to go?” 

“The mayor will meet you at LA General Hospital.” 

That’s not a good sign. “I’ll need to change my shoes.” She looked down at her crocs, pink today, with sparkly gibits. 

“Heels are in your bag.” 

Harper squeezed Devin’s shoulder before exiting the elevator, “girl, I don’t know what I’d do without you.” 

She let out a huff of air, “only the Lord knows what would become of you. Now get going.” 

LA General Hospital 

Harper POV 

In for four 

Hold for four 

Out for for 

Hold for four 

The elevator was slowly making its way up to the seventh floor. Devin had sent over the details she was able to retrieve, giving Harper some guidance on what she was about to walk into.

In for four

Will I ever get used to hospitals? 

Out for four

When the doors opened, Harper was met with the Mayor’s security detail, who escorted her into an empty private suite. Mayor Barrett had her arms crossed and was staring out the window when Harper walked in. Not one for waiting to be introduced, Harper made her way over to the woman. “Mayor Barrett, I’m Harper Murapi.”

“Ms. Murapi, I wish we were meeting under different circumstances.” 

She chuckled, her chest and arm prickled - she wanted to itch at them. “I can’t imagine a lot of city officials would find joy in meeting me ma’am. But I’m here to help. What can you tell me about this case?” 

Hold for four

Chapter Text

Boys Are Back In Town

She said, "Call me now, baby"
I'd come a-runnin'
She said, "Call me now, baby"
And I'd come a-runnin'
If you'd call me now, baby
Then I'd come a-runnin'

On Call by Kings of Leon

Monday Night

SWAT Headquarters 

Luca POV 

Luca was scrambling to get everything shoved back into his bag before he left the locker room, he looked around the weight area before heading outside. 

God I hope he gives me a chance to make this right. 

He rushed out to the motor pool and looked around the lot before he found who he was looking for. “Hey Street! Wait up”

Street turned around right before he got to his motorcycle, “Hey, yo, some fancy driving today.” 

Luca jogged to catch up to him. “Yea, thanks to you” He takes a deep breath. “Hey, so, you know, what we were talking about earlier, water under the bridge and all of that?” 

“Look, everyone was pissed at me. For good reason, I get it.” 

“No- I wasn’t pissed.” Street gave him a look, “ok yea I was pissed. But that’s not why I was so hard on you in the academy. Ok- you might think because of who my dad and granddad were- that they were in SWAT- that I was a shoo in. But the truth is- the instructors were harder on me than they were on anyone else. Ok- they didn’t want anybody in SWAT because of who their dad was. So they needed to see that I wanted it more than anyone else. That’s what I needed to see from you.” 

Street nodded at him, “I appreciate the second chance, man” 

Luca smiled at him, “so we're gonna bunk together again or what, man? I mean, look- I got this new house in East Hollywood, right? I’m still fixing it up. It’s a two bedroom, I’m only using one. You helped me out when I needed a place so… just don’t say no, man. Come on, just -” 

“Stop, stop… You had me at… whatever the first word in that sentence was.” 

They both chuckled, Luca reached over and gave Street a bear hug. “The boys are back! Alright man, let’s go grab your stuff and get you settled in. There’s still a lot of work that needs to be done. Fair warning.” 

Street rolled his eyes, “I’m sure it’s still better than a couch. Just follow me.” 

—----- 

The Boys House (Formerly Luca’s Bachelor pad) 

Luca POV 

They had just sat down from moving all of Street’s things in and setting up his bed for the night, Pizza and beer were teetering on a rickety fold out table as the guys toasted to living together again. 

“Man, I’m just not sure what to do with my Mom. I don’t want her to go back to prison, but the people she’s hanging around and.. I don’t know Luca.” 

“I don’t know either Street. This is difficult territory even without all the added layers of the shit you’ve been through. I think it’s good to give yourself and her some space. You know you spent so much time not living together then to be brought back all of a sudden… That’s a lot. I’ve got your six on whatever you decide to do.” 

“Thanks, Luca. I’m glad we’re back like this again.” 

“Me too, man. We can finally finish that Call of Duty campaign. I got my player two back!” 

Street smiled, “so, where are we going to start in this place? You weren't kidding when you said it’s a lot of work.” 

“Dude- be happy that the bathroom is fixed up. And the roof. I might ask Chris’s Uncle to help with the floors, I had one bust out on me in my room. Scared the shit out of me.” 

He laughed, “alright, we could put a high top dining table in here, TV, Xbox, and PlayStation set up in the front room” 

“Hell yea man, we have to patch all the walls first, I was thinking we could do that Wednesday morning as long as we’re not called in.” 

“Do you know what wall color you want?” 

“What wall color do we want? This is our house Street, I want your input in this too ok? But no, I haven't picked yet. I have a color book I can grab for you to look at. I marked the ones I like so far, but a second opinion would be helpful.” 

“Sure thing man… So, this chick -” 

“Harper” 

“Yea, Harper. When are you going to see her again?” 

“Wednesday. But we’ve been talking almost every night. We stayed up kind of late yesterday talking on the phone. But I haven’t heard from her since noon.” 

“What do you guys even talk about for that long? I never understood that in relationships.” 

“Man- we talk about everything. We spent a lot of time yesterday talking about work outs we both like to do. We’re going to do some boxing soon.” 

Luca’s phone pinged on the table, “that’s probably her.”

Harper: heading home now, do you still want to talk? I’m sorry it’s late 

Luca looked at the time- 10:30 PM. The two of them were getting ready to call it a night anyways. Why was she at work that late?

“What’s up? Why do you have that look on your face?” 

Luca looked up at Street, “she’s just now heading home from work.”

Street checked his watch “Jesus, I thought we were the workaholics” 

“I’m going to call her, you ok cleaning up?”

“Yea man, don’t worry about it. Tell her I said hi”

He smiled and went towards his room dialing her number 

“Hey” 

“Why are you just now heading home?” 

He heard her sigh, “I honestly lost track of time. I had a meeting with a client that ran later than I expected. Then I went back to the office to catch up on work.”

“Have you eaten anything for dinner?” He put her on speaker phone and set her down on his bed while he changed into some joggers he liked wearing to bed. 

“Rashida put leftovers in my fridge.” 

“ I thought Rashida lived across the street?” 

“That’s correct, but I usually have dinner with her and the kids a few times a week. I can’t cook a lot of dishes and she’s better at it anyways. And Ernie isn’t much company when I’m eating.” 

“Yea I get that. I don’t like eating alone either.” 

A loud banging comes from the kitchen “I’m good! We need a new floorboard!” 

“Son of a-“ 

“What the hell was that?” 

“My buddy Street, he moved in with me today. Hang on Honey I gotta check on him.” Luca grabbed his phone and came out to the kitchen. Street was on the floor staring at a floorboard that collapsed under him. He sighed, “I’ll add that onto the ‘to be fixed’ list. Are you ok?” 

“I thought you were on the phone” 

He held his phone up “I am. You good?” 

“Yea I’m fine. Scared the shit out of me.” 

“What happened?” 

“Street fell through the floor. Now I have a hole in my kitchen” 

“Hi Harper” 

“Hi… did you say Street?” 

“It’s my last name, first name is Jim, but you can call me yours if it’s easier” 

Harper started cackling on the phone as Luca pushed Street over with his foot and pinned him to the floor with it, “no flirting with my girl.” 

“Oh that was rich. I’ll stick to Jim if it’s all the same.” 

Luca chuckled, “are you almost home?” 

“Yea, I’m about ten minutes away.” 

Street swatted Luca’s foot off of him and groaned as he got up, “I would’ve stuck to hopping couches if this was the treatment I’m going to get.” 

“ Dom behave” 

“Yea Dom behave.” Jim sassed.

Luca rolled his eyes and walked back to his room, “I’m back in my room now.” 

“Sorry to hear about your floors, hopefully it’s an easy fix.” 

“Have you dealt with bad floor boards?” 

“Yea, but I paid someone to do that, mine were rotting out in some places and it was cheaper to get them professionally done. I’d at least have someone look at it and do an assessment.” 

He sighed, “yea I’ll see if Chris’s Uncle can come take a look at them.” 

“Might be a good idea,” she snickered, “man am I ready to get home. I’m so tired.”

“I believe it. You’ve been working for over 15 hours. Is it like that often?” 

“Not everyday. Sometimes when I can’t sleep I’ll go in and get some work done. Usually it’s not deadlines or anything I have to catch up on, just my inability to get a full night's rest.” 

“Why do you have trouble sleeping at night?” 

“You’re telling me nothing keeps you up at night in your job?” 

“Touché.” 

He heard her laugh again, “five more blocks.”

“Good. A teammate told me something interesting about you today.” 

“Oh boy - that doesn’t sound good.” 

“No, no, it’s nothing bad! The Captain of our squad, Hondo, showed me the article about your 30 under 30 win.” 

“Oh god I hate that picture of me.” 

Luca couldn’t believe what he was hearing, “are you kidding? Harper, you look like a badass in that photo, babe. You give off real girl boss vibes. I love it.” 

“I am a girl boss.. It was a very unexpected win, and it was a great way to spotlight HOME.. I just don’t like being the only face behind the organization, if that makes any sense.” 

“No I can get that - but you are the brains behind it, you’re the one who started all of it. It’s good that your hard work gets recognized by people.” 

She hummed in agreement. “How was work for you today?” 

“It was eventful, I got to do some sick moves with Black Betty.” 

“You and that car.” Her teasing tone made him smile.

“Babe, it's so much more than a car and I know you know that.” 

“If I come visit while you’re there… Can I turn on the sirens?” 

He thought Hicks would maybe sign off on that. “Maybe, it’ll cost ya though.” 

“Oh really?” 

“A few kisses should do the trick” 

“Hmmmmm. How much would it cost for me to drive it one day?” 

He paused, trying to think this through. Several very inappropriate, very creative images crossed his mind. But he didn’t want to scare her off if he was moving too fast, he could wait, probably. “One uninterrupted make-out session.” 

“That can hopefully be arranged. Our friends seem to have an unearthly ability to catch us being naughty.”  

He groaned, burning his face into his pillow thinking back to Saturday. “Nosey nellys is more appropriate.” Luca heard the jingling of her car keys, “are you home?” 

“Yes, finally,” he listened to her open her front door, reset her alarm, and set down all her things with a sigh. 

“Try and get a decent amount of sleep tonight, alright?” 

“Officers orders?” 

Don’t say it don’t say it don’t fucking say it. “I would hate to have to book you for failure to obey a police officer's order.” God dammit, Luca pull it together!

“Oh nooooo, how awful. Would that happen to include a pat-down, officer?” 

Luca was going to pass out from all the blood rushing away from his head. I'm just going to go for it. “Might require a strip search. That can be arranged at any time.” 

“That could be fun. I’ll keep that in mind”  

He adjusted his pants groaning, “you’re killing me Harper.” 

She giggled, "You'll live.” Luca heard her shifting around, probably getting ready for bed. “ Thanks for keeping me company on my drive. It’s something I’ve been looking forward to at night.” 

“I’ll take this when we can’t see each other. But I’m looking forward to Wednesday.” 

“ Me too. It’s going to feel like forever until then.” 

“I know. Would you maybe want to do dinner and a movie? I could pick you up from your place, wine and dine you, maybe make out in the truck again?” 

“ You are REALLY trying to get written up for public indecency are you?” 

“You’d be worth it.” 

“Oh you sap. We can look up shows and debate tomorrow.”

“Sounds like a plan. I’ll let you eat and everything. Get some sleep tonight ok?” 

“I’ll try. You get some sleep tonight too. See you soon, Dom.”

Chapter Text

Hey Yeah! 

I get around, but I want you to show me how

How to lay my heart out on the line

Should I finally mean it this time?

What is it about you and the way you move?

You can groove to the beat of my heart

Maybe Cupid's just doing his part

'Cause I know that I'm yours

Dance With Me by Sir, Please

Tuesday night

The Boys House

Lucas POV 

They were fighting. 

Not really fighting. It was dumb. They both admitted it was dumb. But they refused to back down. 

Street and Luca were currently patching the holes in Street’s room, while also on the phone with Harper. Street was slowly descending into madness.

“Listen, if we go see Us, you can just hold onto me and close your eyes, you’ll be fine.” 

“Dominique, the reason people go to the movies is to WATCH the movie. And why not Five Feet Apart? The book was amazing.” 

“So you can see me cry on our third date? No thank you.” 

“Crying does not make you any less of a man, it is a very justified response to what will happen in that movie. But that doesn’t matter. I won't be able to see you crying because I will also be crying.” 

“I know it’s ok for guys to cry- I just don’t like purposefully watching sad movies.” He sighed, “ok, so far we have Captain Marvel, the Lego Movie, and Captive State.” 

“Also, We Die Young.” 

“You just want to watch Jean Claude Van Damme.” 

“I’m failing to see the problem with this. The man has aged like fine wine.” 

“He had a coke problem” 

“Of course he had a coke problem, it was Hollywood in the 90s! Who didn’t have a coke problem?”

Street had finally had enough of listening to this. “For fuck sakes just go see the Lego Movie! this is killing me.” 

“...So we have one vote for the Lego Movie.” 

Street groaned and got up from where he was patching, “I’m going to make a snack. You two continue arguing.” 

Harper laughed , “sorry Street.” 

“Sorry Street. Will you make me something too?” 

He rolled his eyes, “Sure thing man, just let her pick the movie if it’s going to cause this much chaos.” 

Harper giggled, “ Yea Dom, just let me pick the movie” 

“We are not arguing, we’re debating our choices. Like rational adults.” 

“You are the farthest thing from rational, you literally just want to watch a scary movie so you can put the moves on me.” 

“I’m failing to see the problem with this.” 

“Don’t use my words against me.” 

“I’d rather have something else against you.” 

“I CAN HEAR YOU” Street yelled from the kitchen. 

They both laughed, “ I think we’re giving Street gray hairs.” 

“The first of many.” 

“Alright, so the Lego Movie?” 

“Are you sure? I know it’s a kids movie.” 

“I gotta stay current on kids' culture. There’s so much new slang out there that I am still trying to figure out what half of it means.” 

He laughed, “Oh really, like what?” 

“You know what sus means? Or stan?” 

“Stan? like the name?” 

“No. It means… fuck what does it mean? Like you’re a die hard fan. Like Blackstreet? I stan them, even though they’ve faded into obscurity. Beyonce? I know you stan her.” 

“How… what?” 

“I don’t know Dom, I learned it at work from some of the kids. God half of the shows are shit compared to what Molly and I watched. The 90s were peak cartoons ” 

“Oh I don’t know about that, the 80s had some good ones… Wait, who’s Molly?” There was silence on the other end, he picked up the phone to see if the call dropped, it didn’t. “Harper, you there?” 

“Yea I’m here… Molly was my sister.”

His head was spinning, trying to find a question to an answer he knew wasn’t great. She definitely told me she doesn’t have any family left. Fuck, how do I ask this? 

“Back to what we were talking about, Lego Movie showings: There’s a 6:30 and 7:45 showing at the AMC like 10 minutes from us. Unless you wanted to go somewhere else? Where were we planning on going to dinner?” 

Well that’s the end of that conversation it seems. “Let’s go to the IMAX on 28th and DaPere- that’s a lot closer to the Thai place Hondo suggested.”

“Sounds good to me. Do you want to ride together?” 

“Of course I do. Will you look up times? I’m going to wash this plaster off my hands.” 

“I’ll be here when you get back” she snickered 

He took a moment when he was gone to think about what she just told him. It was very obvious she didn’t want to discuss that further. No wonder the girls are so protective. They’re her family. Just like the team. He thought about Deacon and his kids, how they call him Uncle Luca, she’s built that too. He sighed, another lock on the safe that is Harper. 

When he got back to Street’s room, she told him showtimes for the IMAX theater and made their plans. He would pick her up from work and go from there. 

“You never told me how your day went.” 

She sighed, “I was at court today supporting some guests and their families. Court days are always hard for me. I don’t like that they have to face the people that hurt them again.” 

“That can’t be easy, but they got help right? They’re seeking justice, that's good.” 

“It is… it doesn’t erase what has already been done. But justice is a good first step if the convictions go our way.” 

“You should’ve gotten a law degree along with your other ones.” 

She laughed, “oh god no, I have no patience for liars and people who hurt others. I’d call them out of their bullshit and I would not be civil and orderly about it.” 

“You’d probably get detained every hearing.” 

“Probably. I just give them the glare and bite my tongue. At least until court is adjourned.” 

“I don’t know how you do it Harper.” 

Harper was quiet for a minute, but he could almost hear her gears turning, “I’m sure there’s parts of the job that you do that you wish were different. This is one of mine.” 

He sighed, “I know what you mean.” He cleaned up the mess him and Street made. “So you said you enjoy painting?” 

“Yea, it was my favorite part of finishing my house… Why are you going to let me paint your place?” 

“What? No way, I won’t ask you to do that Harper. That’s not right.” 

“Think of it as a stress reliever for me. I literally just zone out and paint. I’m really good at trimming.” 

Street walked back in with a plate of sandwiches and a drink in his other “why won’t you let her paint?” 

“Street, it’s not right to ask her to do manual labor.” 

“First of all, I'm all but begging you, second, it’s free labor. And third… Are you saying you don’t want me to see the bachelor pad? Is it a ‘boys only’ type situation?” 

“What??? No that is not-” 

“Jim! what’s the password for entry!”

“ ‘I love Sofie Taylor’ ” 

You’ve got to be kidding me. “Seriously Street?!” 

“The pornstar?” Harper asked 

Street almost spat out his drink “You know who that is?????” 

“Yes Street I know who that is.” 

Luca was trying not to self combust at this conversation. “Harper there’s no password- don’t believe a word this kid says.” He turned to Street, “could you not??” 

He shrugged, “it’s less painting I have to do if she helps.” 

Luca groaned, pinching the bridge of his nose. That’s not the part he has a problem with. “Harper, I don’t want you to feel obligated to help out with my house just because we’re dating.” 

“Well it’s a good thing that’s not the case. I’m serious, give me a bottle of wine and some good music and I’ll do all the painting in the house. That’s how Maggie and I got the music store done.” 

He thought it over, it didn’t sound like a half bad idea, it was more time they could hang out and be with each other. Ah fuck it. “Fine babe, I’ll get you wine and you can help us paint in a few weeks. Floors need to be fixed first.”

“I can’t wait.” 

He was munching on his sandwich when his and Street’s phone beeped with an alert. He hustled back to his room to change into another shirt with his phone in hand. “Shit, Harper I gotta go, I’ll talk to you soon ok? Will you text me on your way home?” 

“Luca I got your keys!” Street yelled as he grabbed their bags, hustling to the truck.

“Be safe, both of you. And I will.”  

SWAT HQ

Luca POV 

Luca was considering what he needed to get ready for their date tomorrow. Flowers again? Was that too basic? Maybe I should ask Street what I could wear, or Alexander if he’s free.  When he looked up to see Hondo staring at him. “My man, what’s on your mind?”

He smiled, “just trying to plan out what I’m doing tomorrow with my girl.” 

“Oh ho ho, you locked that down?” 

Luca laughed, “sure did Cap.” he leaned forward rubbing his hands together. “You know, it’s been a minute since I’ve been out-” 

It was Hondo’s turn to laugh, “Luca, this past stint was the longest I’ve seen you go without dating anyone in the ten plus years I’ve known you. It was a pretty impressive streak you had going.” 

“Alright alright. I get it. But the time has made me think… I don’t want to just half ass something you know? Like, SWAT will always be first, there’s no doubt about it. But I know I could prioritize other things as well.” 

“And she’s one of those priorities?” 

“I want her to be - yea.” 

Hondo smiled at him and shrugged, “then show her that Luca. Show her what that is.”

Wednesday night 

Harper’s House  

Harper’s POV

Harper felt light on her feet, partly due to the fact that Dom was basically holding her up against her front door, the other part being that she was light headed from the lack of air.

“We’re going to get caught by Rashida again,” Harper panted out in between kisses. “She’ll wake up the whole block with her hollerin’.”

Dom chuckled against her neck, it sent an excited shiver down her spine. He kissed along her neck while squeezing her thigh and moving his hand to her ass to hoist her up more. “Is that a challenge?” She giggled as he adjusted his grip on her legs before covering her lips with his again. 

When they broke apart they were both breathing heavily, “you need to be up early tomorrow.” 

“So do you,” he smiled looking at her flushed face. Dom brushed a flyaway hair from her cheek before kissing her softly. “I can’t get enough of you.” 

She smiled up at him, “I can’t either.” She pulled him in for another kiss. “You need to go babe.” 

He stole another, then got a good look at her. She was looking a bit disheveled, her lips were swollen from their ministrations, and her sweater was falling off her right shoulder to reveal the outer lines of a tattoo, “You’ve got ink?” 

She winked at him, “I’ve got several. Maybe I’ll show them to you one day if you behave.” 

“I have been the perfect gentleman.” 

“Your hands are on my ass.”

Dom gave her a squeeze, “just supporting my girl.” 

Harper laughed, “such a gentleman. My hero.”

He smiled but set her back down on her feet, moving his hands up to her hips. “Get some sleep alright?” 

“I’ll do my best.” 

“What keeps my pretty girl up?” 

She leaned her head against her door staring up at him. The good and the bad. “It’s a long list.” 

“I’d like to hear it one day.” 

Harper nodded, biting the inside of her cheek, come on say something. “My sister keeps me up most nights.” 

He squeezed her hips, “why?” 

“… you know, as much as you hate to think about it, one day you’ll lose your parents, it's a given right?” He nodded for her to continue, she gulped back the pain in her throat, “you never think about your siblings dying.” 

“I’m sorry you had to go through that Harper.” Dom pulled her into his arms again cradling her head.

She shook her head against his chest, “it was a long time ago.” 

“That doesn’t make it any better.” 

“You’re right.” 

“Thank you for sharing that with me.” 

She hummed against his chest. She didn't know how long they were standing there, holding each other under her automatic porch light, but it didn’t matter. “It’s not easy to share that stuff. It’ll take me some time Dom.”

He nodded, kissing the top of her head. “Look- I’m not expecting your entire life story any time soon. Ok? I plan on sticking around. So you just tell me when you’re ready.” 

“I can do that.” 

He pulled back so he could look at her face, “I really want to make this work Harper, I’m going to mess things up, but I want to try.” 

Holy moley this guy. “I want that too… I haven’t dated a lot Dom, I’m terrible at sharing when things are going on, the girls hate it. My work has been my main priority all of my adult life, But I want more than just that.” 

“We’ll figure it out.” He said it like it was the simplest thing in the world. And she was starting to believe him. “We’ll figure it out and keep going.” 

She kissed him one last time before finally opening her door. “Sweet dreams Dom.”

“Sweet dreams Harper.” 

Chapter Text

End Game

I wanna bring her 'round to meet ya

I think you'd like her kind demeanor

I know that Grandma would've loved her

Like she was her own

She makes me feel at home, ooh

Do you think I'm being foolish if I don't rush in?

Beyond - Leon Bridges 

Stuffed Bun 

Dom POV

“So Dom, are you still seeing that girl?” His dad was still looking down at the menu, reading glasses perched on the end of his nose. 

What the hell.  He smiles and gives his dad a look. “I am actually. I thought you knew?”

His mom smacked his dad in the chest “I told you he was! He told me a week ago when we were on the phone!.” She smiled brightly at Dom, “have you guys been ‘hanging out’? Is that what they’re calling dating these days?” She put air quotes around the phrase, it made him laugh, he missed his family.

“Rosilin he’s a grown ass man - he better be dating,” he turned to look back at Dom, “unless you’re still screwing around.” 

Well that was fast. “Nah pops- not screwing around with Harper, she’s too good for that.” He pulled at his sleeves, trying to word this right. “I’d uh- you know I’d actually like you to meet her, maybe sometime next month.” 

His mom let out the most god-awful squeal of joy. If Carl’s lower mandible could detach, it would’ve been on the floor. “This is serious then?” 

“Yes Dad, I’m serious.” 

Carl’s brows scrunched together, “We haven’t met any of your girlfriends since the senior prom.” 

His mom was practically vibrating in excitement. “Oh I can’t wait to meet her. Would she want to come have dinner with us? Or maybe we can drive into town, somewhere closer.” She was already pulling out her day book, old school as ever, to look at dates that worked for both of them. 

“I have to clear it with her first, don’t get ahead of yourself Ma.” 

“And you’ve only been seeing this girl a month?” Carl had taken off his glasses to look Dom in the eyes. He could tell what his dad was thinking, how could he already know? 

He nodded, “yea I know - she had me when she walked through that door. But I like her for more than that.” 

His dad held his hand out expectantly, “show me a photo of her.” 

Dom rolled his eyes but tapped on his phone to pull up pictures from their last date at the Santa Monica pier.  “I’ve posted them on my instagram, I made you and mom an account so you could see what I’m up to.”

Carl scrolled through the photos muttering “If I wanted to know I’d call and ask.” 

Rosilin looked over his shoulder looking at the photos, “she’s very pretty Dommy, you weren’t lying there and she’s smart!” She looked over at his father, “do you remember me telling you about that honey?” 

“Yes dear.” Carl chirped, still scrolling through Dom’s instagram. “She knows what you do for a living right?” 

“Yes dad, we’ve already had the work discussion.” 

“And she’s fine with it? Being with a cop is hard work, and with you being in SWAT just like your dad… It was hard at times.” His mom smiled sadly at him, he knew it was hard on her, he saw what it would do to her when dad was gone for days at a time. He got it better than most.

He pointed at the pair of them. “You two made it work.” 

Carl patted his mom's hand lovingly, “it takes a lot of practiced patience, and a fair share of sweet talking.” 

He nodded, “I told her I’m committed to SWAT - and she’s committed to her work too. But it takes compromising to make this work, and making each other a priority as well.” 

“And how has that been going?” 

Dom sat back in thought. They’ve had to cancel or change their plans pretty frequently because of work, but they always made time to see each other - at least for a few minutes. And they call every night, it’s become part of their night routine. “We’re making it work in our own way, it’s not perfect, but we’re working through it.”

Rosilin was beaming at him, “I am very excited to meet her. You never told us about anyone else you dated, so we knew this was really something when you called.” 

He smiled, “we get along in a way I never thought mattered. Never looked for it. Like, we’re both people who take action when something’s going on. She settles me, like- I don’t know how to put it. And she makes me want to try more. Like try to be a better person- and I already thought I’m a good person, you know? I want to be with her all the time. Even if it’s us doing nothing, I don’t care.” 

His dad just softly smiled and squeezed his shoulder in affection. “I’m happy for you, son.”

Next Day

HOME HQ 

Luca POV

Devin had warned him that she was out at a meeting off site when he arrived. But now Luca had been waiting in Harper’s office for 15 minutes and he really tried not to peek around, but what else was he supposed to do? The first few minutes he sat on the couch and checked his phone before he started getting antsy. Devin had popped her head in saying she had to leave for the day but that Harper would be back soon. 

It was the first time he was in here without Harper or Devin preoccupying him, he realized he never actually looked around her office. Looking around now, it was a very professional looking office, which didn’t suit her in the slightest. 

This was the girl who loves trinkets and festivals and reading curled up with her cat. This office feels… sterile. 

He got up and moved along the wall, she had her degrees framed on her bookshelf and some academic looking books but only two photos- one of her and what he assumed were coworkers and one of her in front of the building they’re currently in with the keys. 

This is weird. Every time they hung out she took at least one picture, usually of the two of them, sometimes of scenery. She had the highest storage on her phone for all the photos she had. 

His eyebrows furrowed as he moved closer to her desk, her actual desk was the fake wood used at a lot of office places, Luca shook his head at seeing the pile of crocs hidden under her desk. a metal filing cabinet had a lot of children's drawings on it. He chuckled at a few of their attempts at drawing Harper, then moved on to her desk. Luca spun around in her chair once then noticed one more photo. This one was older and discolored slightly, and pinned to her corkboard behind her monitor. Leaning in, he could see Harper in between two others.  

An older woman was holding her from behind, wild auburn hair and the same eyes as Harper. Her mom, he assumed. In Harper’s arms was a little girl, no older than five if he had to guess. He carefully unpinned the picture to have a closer look, same eyes again. He flipped the picture over to see if there was a date or anything. Instead, he found a note. 

To my Sunshine, we will always find home within each other.

Love Mom 

Orla, Harper, Molly - October 2000

He re-pinned the picture where he found it, sat back in the chair and sighed. 

He heard the elevator ping and shuffling from outside her office door, Luca stood up and moved towards the door when it swung open. Harper had a frown on her face as she kicked her heels off and groaned as she bent over to pick them up. She noticed him when she stood upright, “fuck Dom! You scared me.” 

He laughed, “I thought I’d surprise you, was going to hide and jump out at you but I didn’t want to get decked in the face.” 

“I definitely would’ve punched you if you did that.” she smiled, chucking her shoes and bag on the couch before closing the distance between them. Luca wrapped his arms around her waist and kissed her gently. When they pulled away she laid her head against his chest,  “how long have you been here? I’m sorry I was at a meeting.” 

He swayed them back and forth lightly rubbing her back, “I haven’t been here too long Honey, I wanted to surprise you - I guess that’s what I get for not checking in beforehand. Devin told me to call her next time so I can plan my surprises a little better.” 

She giggled and leaned up to kiss him again, “I’m so glad I get to see you. This is the best surprise. How long do I have you?” 

“I’m all yours baby.” 

She hummed in contentment relishing in the silence before she moved away, “I have like… five ish emails to send, maybe six. Then I’m calling it for the day.” 

He rubbed her arms lovingly, enjoying being close to her again. “How did your meeting go? You looked a little frustrated when you came in.” He felt her tense then. She looked down at her hands, pulling at her finger joints before shrugging. He noticed she did that when she was nervous. He cupped her hands in his to stop her from popping her knuckles - knowing it’s not good for her. 

Those honey brown eyes were staring right at him now, “I met with a client’s mother… I can’t really share a lot with you, Dom. She’s just frustrated and I get her frustration. But certain cases are just harder to build, and I told her I’ll do what I can. Or who she can reach out to for more resources, but her daughter is against it.” 

“And you have to respect the clients wishes?” 

She sighed, “yes and no. It’s complicated. As is everything.” still holding onto her, she led him over towards her desk, “I promise, seven emails then I’m done.” 

He tisk-ed at her, they’ve played this game before. “No ma’am, you said five or six.” 

“Are we sure it wasn’t eight? Could’ve sworn I said eight.” Her smile gave her away.

Dom shook his head at her antics and pinched her side, “come on boss lady, six emails then you’re taking me out to dinner.” 

“Oh I’m taking YOU out? Prepared to be swept off your feet Dominique Luca.” She went around to her desk chair and fired up her monitor. He leaned against her desk, knowing she’d keep her word but wanting to be close while she worked. “Did you snoop around my desk?” 

He turned his head towards her, “I looked around your office, yea. I was bored.” 

She smiled and tilted her head towards the cork board whilst still typing away, “picture is on straight, it’s always crooked.” 

“Are you mad?” 

“No I’m not. It’s pretty boring here, I know.” 

“It definitely doesn’t feel like ‘you’ you know?” 

She paused her typing and looked around her office before looking up at him. “I used to live here. When we first got this place… I didn’t see the point of having a house or an apartment, you know? I’d stop working when I got tired, shower, then sleep on the couch, wake up a few hours later and kept pushing. It felt like my only purpose was making this place successful.” Harper looked back at her screen and started typing again. “I did that for a while before the house across from Rashida went on sale. I still end up sleeping on that couch more than I care to admit, but I know now more than I knew then that that’s not healthy. That having separation is important. So this space doesn’t feel like me. I don’t want to feel at peace here, because this isn’t my home. This is where I help people and be that boss lady, then I can go home and rest.” 

Dom nodded his head but didn’t respond. There were a lot of emotions going through him. Pride and amazement in what she’s done, but his chest felt heavy and ached at how she accomplished it all. 

Her only purpose? How could she have believed that!   How lonely were you Harper? He knows she had the girls, but they also had their own lives to think about after they left college. 

Their own families too. 

He looked over at the picture on the cork. He never asked, and she never shared what happened. 

She’ll tell me when she’s ready. 

Looking back down at Harper he smiled watching her work, she looks so cute and serious when she’s focused , eyes squinting at the screen. Whenever she paused in her typing, her pointer fingers tapped on the F and J keys in thought before she would start up again. “I can feel you staring.” She said, eyes still focused on what she was typing. 

“Just admiring the view, and making sure you don’t do more than five.” 

“You said six.” 

Luca smirked, “did I? Could’ve sworn I said five.”

She rolled her eyes and kept typing away, but her smile was back. “This is my last one. Then dinner.” 

When they packed her up to head out for the day Luca looked around her office again. He was sure it’s changed a lot in the years HOME has been functioning, but he still doesn’t like it- and he can’t see himself changing that opinion. I want to burn that couch. He realized. For what it represented. 

He slung an arm around her shoulders as they walked to her car, Harper was rambling off some restaurants she had in mind, he didn’t care. He tugged her close to kiss her temple quickly before opening her door for her. 

As they drove to dinner, both of them badly singing along to a Dirty Heads song, he thought about all he knew and all he wanted to know. Her opening up has been a slow and rewarding process for him. He always reminded her that he was sticking around, and he meant it. 

You won’t be lonely anymore Harper.

Chapter Text

Don't Turn Off The Lights

I'm saying, come over here sit next to me
We can see where things go naturally
Just say the word and I'll part the sea
Just come over here and sit next to me

- Sit Next to Me by Foster The People

Hoover Street Farmer’s Market

Harper POV 

If Harper didn’t spend as much time as she did staring at Dom, she probably wouldn’t have noticed the tension in his shoulders, or how his eyes were constantly scanning the crowd. He was on edge. She wasn’t sure what the main cause was, but it didn’t matter at the moment. She’s seen it before with Jess and knew the longer they stayed where they currently were, the worse it would get. 

Luckily, they arrived at the market early, and had shopped around for a bit before she really started to notice something was off. He had told her he was tired when she arrived at his house- but he didn’t say much else. He had been mostly quiet as they traveled around.

At one of the stalls, they’re handed kimchi to sample. Harper tried a small bite before handing it to Dom. He gave her a weird look, “you don’t like kimchi?” 

She pouted, she hated that she was picky on kimchi- it goes against her code of being a foodie. “I don’t know why I don’t like kimchi. I like other fermented foods.”

“Is there anything else you don’t like?”

“Liars and parallel parking,” she replied.

Dom chuckled at that, “I knew about the parking - the one time I let you drive, you parked a mile away from the restaurant.” 

Her cheeks warmed as she gave him a shrug, well aware that her efforts to dodge parallel parking have made her late to several events and meetings. “What are things you don’t like?”

“That’s a long list.”

“Is one of them on your mind currently?”

He stilled at that, “what do you mean?”

Now or never. She turned to face him, and waited for him to make eye contact before speaking, “I noticed that you’ve been quiet… and you’ve been rubbing your hands more than you usually do. Those are the big signs. It seems like your brain is elsewhere right now.” 

He sighed, shoving his hands in his hoodie pocket, “I’m sorry Harper, I -”

“No! No Dom I didn’t bring it up because I wanted an apology for anything. You’ve done nothing wrong.” Harper smoothed her hands up and down his arms, “I just want to make sure you’re ok.”

Luca nodded, taking a minute to think before responding. “Just a rough day yesterday, you know? And I didn’t sleep well.” 

She nodded, of course she understood he was talking to the Captain of TNS (Team No Sleep). ”I get it Dom. Why don't we get out of here? We can go somewhere less crowded. Maybe your place?”

He shook his head, “I want you to be able to look around some more Harper - I don’t want to ruin your day.”

Harper pinched his side, shaking her head, “I want to spend time with you and make sure you’re comfortable too. Which is not here.” She took his arm and started leading them towards the exit. “So let's get out of here.”

He let himself be tugged along back to his car, she asked him if she would like her to drive and he quickly shook his head - he liked being behind the wheel.

Now, as they made their way back to East Hollywood, she worked her thumbs along his wrist and arm in practiced motions she was all too familiar with.

“Where did you learn that?” 

“Where did I learn what?” 

“The signs.” 

Trauma responses. She thought to herself. She didn’t stop rubbing his arm as she spoke, “I have experience with it.” 

He nodded and shifted in his seat, “what about the messaging?” 

“I have muscle and tendon damage. So I got massages a lot.” 

“But I don’t have muscle or tendon damage.” 

“They’re good for arthritis and carpal tunnel too.”

“Is that a jab at me being old?”

She saw him smirk out of the corner of her eyes, she was glad he could still joke with her, but knew he was still on edge. “You’re not that old, Dom.” 

“I’m older than you.”

“So is the queen of England. Your point?” She wanted to razz him a little - to see if he would banter back. 

She smiled when he gasped at her in faux pain, “did you just compare me to a 100 year old woman?” 

If he wants to avoid it for now, fine. I’ll play this game for now. “Yes your majesty,” she giggled, “you have many years before I can start telling people I’m dating a silver fox.” 

He shook his head and parked the car in the driveway. She had only been over one other time, which was to help him and James pick a paint color when they couldn’t make a decision. 

Walking in now, the place was a bit unorganized. All the furniture they had started to purchase was moved to one side of the room as the new floors had just been placed. He didn’t say anything as he locked the door and came to stand beside her.

“I’m glad you decided on the darker wood, it’ll go better with the blue we picked out.” 

“Yea.” 

She looked up at him, his eyes were stuck on the far wall. “How about we move the stuff how we’d like it - and watch a movie?” 

She felt him relax at that suggestion, and mumbled a yes. She thought that giving him a task that they could accomplish together would be a good start, and it would be a good physical activity for them to do. There were only a few pieces they had purchased, the TV stand, a coffee table, and a couch with matching arm chairs. And after arranging them in a way that Luca decided would be good for now, Harper went to their dining area and started bringing over their game consoles. 

“What are you doing?” 

“Just take a seat Dom, I’m going to set up your TV.” 

He tentatively sat down on the couch, watching her kneel in front of the tv stand and place the counsels on the shelf. “You know how to hook those up?” 

She nodded looking back at him, “I have an Xbox and a Wii at home.” His eyes lit up - he definitely did NOT know that. Oh right, he hasn’t actually been inside my house yet. She knew that would change soon enough. Only a few people have ever been to her house since she moved in, but Harper wanted him there. She thought he’d get a kick out of her place. “I don’t play a lot, but it’s fun, especially when Rocky and Jack come over.”

Harper turned the TV a bit so she could see where to plug the HDMI and other cords in, then switched everything on to test connect them to their wifi. Slowly, she got off the floor and sat beside him on the couch, handing over the Xbox controller so he could sign into his accounts. He was still quiet as he deftly entered his information into the apps he used. “Jim will be happy we got this all hooked up again. I remember you telling me about the new game that came out. The little trailer you showed me looked cool.”

After a few minutes he spoke, “you don’t need to do all this Harper. You’re not my therapist.” 

Deep breaths, you did the same shit Harper. “Was there something I did that you didn’t like?” 

“No. Like - you know. You don’t need to check on me like this. I just had a rough night.”

She turned so she was facing him, he was still looking at the screen but his focus was elsewhere. “I know I’m not your therapist, and you don’t make me feel like I have to do anything. I know what it feels like to go through shit alone - and I don’t want that for you. I want to check in on you, I want to make sure you’re ok.” She reached for his arm and rubbed him gently. “So how are you feeling? Honestly.” 

He stared at her hands for a few moments before taking in a deep breath and releasing it through his nose. “I couldn’t sleep last night.” She just nodded, encouraging him to keep going. “Jim wasn’t here - and like… it was just too quiet.” 

“I understand.” 

He shook his head. “It’s stupid.” 

“No it’s not, Dom. What you’re feeling is not stupid. You’re used to the noise - you haven’t been here for very long. It’s still new.” 

“You live alone.” 

Who would I live with?  She sighed, thinking through her response, “it took a while to get used to. There’s still some nights I wish I still lived with the girls like I did in college.” He nodded his head. “You said you had a rough day yesterday?” 

Harper felt him tense up slightly. Before taking another deep breath. Good - controlled breathing, he’s had to do this before. “Just a rough call.” 

“I know you can’t really talk about everything that goes on at work with me… but is there someone at SWAT you can talk to about it?” 

“Yea - Wendy. She’s cool. We usually play 2K and talk.” She felt better by hearing that. Glad that he had someone he’s sought out before for the hard days. “I just don’t want to bring it back to you - like you deal with crap all the time in your job too.” 

“And I see a therapist for it. We deal with wild shit in our jobs. It’s unreasonable and impossible to compartmentalize all of that - that’s not how humans work.” He held her hands in his, she could see his mind working behind his eyes. “You do so much, and I hate that you think you have to always be happy and positive around me.” 

He opened his mouth like he was going to say something, but didn’t. She waited patiently, knowing that this wasn’t easy for him. “I don’t want to bother you.” he whispered. 

She sucked in a pained breath before cupping his face so he had to look into her eyes. “Dominique Luca. You are never a bother. You are NOT a burden. You’re the one who’s always telling me that you’re sticking around. Now it’s my turn. It’s not going to be sunny everyday. I don’t want just that side of you. I want it all. And I don’t want you to feel like you have to hide it from me.” He grabbed her and pulled her into his chest, holding her tightly. “Because I care about you,” she whispered against his neck, kissing his pulse. 

He sniffed and wiped at his eyes before pulling back to look at her again. “Thank you. I… I needed that.”

She smiled and nodded in agreement. His eyes were still misty, but she could feel him start to relax again. “How about you try getting some sleep?” 

He nodded at that suggestion. She stood up and made an attempt to pull Dom to his feet but he resisted for a moment. “Will you stay?” 

Harper leaned down to peck his lips, “of course.” 

Fifteen minutes later, Dom had settled in bed on his side with Duke settled in the living room on the couch. Harper came back with a glass of water and put it on his night stand before taking off her jacket and crawling into bed with him. 

She was trying to think of the last time she had slept next to someone - she really couldn’t think of it. Harper had only ever dated one other person, and it lasted three weeks before the guy got tired of her schedule and dipped. All her other encounters were just quick hook ups - and she never stuck around after. So this was new territory.

He yawned and pulled her impossibly close. All she could smell was his cologne - it was something light and citrusy, she absolutely loved it. She was stiff when he first wrapped his arms around her. “Are you ok?” he mumbled, rubbing a hand up and down her back.

She slowly relaxed in his hold. “I’m ok.” She was trying not to overthink this whole thing - which was proving impossible. She kissed his cheek once before getting comfortable. “Try and get some sleep. I’ll be right here.” 

Not even a minute passed before his breathing evened out. She had turned the lights off when she came in, but the natural light coming through the blinds made his face visible for her. He looked so peaceful, the lines on his face were softened, and from this close - she could see the lightest smudge of freckles scattered on his cheekbones. She smiled at that wondering if they got darker after a day out in the sun. She couldn’t wait to find out. 

This was all so new to her. She’s thought about how much Dom has seeped his way into her life; the nightly calls, the flirty texts, the random visits to her office. She chuckled and thought she should try surprising him at work. She wants to meet the rest of his team, after hearing everyone's life story at this point, she could probably figure out who’s who on sight. 

With April coming up soon, she knew she would be busy with cases - but she wanted to step away from case work and focus on just being the CEO. Her therapist didn’t think it was good for her mental health to keep being a direct advocate and contact at her work - and that her altruistic side sends her spiraling when she’s unable to help clients to the degree she would like. 

If she was being honest, she was more than ready for that change. And while she knew she could do it on her own, having Dom around has made it that much easier. 

She snuggled in close to him and breathed in the citrus smell more. I’ll have to look in his bathroom to figure out what he uses, this is intoxicating. Her eyes slowly closed, and just let herself completely relax against him. 

Dom POV

When Luca woke up, he was completely wrapped around Harper, who was absentmindedly running her hand along his back while answering emails on her phone. “What time is it?” his voice was gravely and if he were honest, he could fall back asleep any second. 

She spoke softly to him, “It's noon. You only slept for like… three hours? Maybe four.” 

He squeezed her waist, “did you sleep at all?” 

“I nodded off for a while.” she put her phone down and turned to face him fully, “how are you feeling?” 

“Much better.” He carefully carded a hand into her hair to pull her in for a kiss. “Thank you… for you know - staying.” 

“Of course Dom. It was… it was actually kind of nice. I didn’t think I'd like cuddling.” 

“And now?” 

She giggled, “it’s not so bad when it’s with you.” 

“Saaappppp.” he teased, kissing her neck.

“Don’t be mean to me. Or I’ll get up.” 

His hold on her tightened, “fine - I’m sorry,” he mumbled against her skin, kissing his way up to her ear, knowing she was sensitive where the curve of her jaw met her neck. “What could I do to make it up to you?”

She shivered in delight, his whiskers rubbing against her neck was making her throb. “How about another kiss?” 

Like I could ever say no to you. “I think I can manage that.” 

He held nothing back when kissing her now, tilting her head and letting his tongue dive into her mouth. They had gotten carried away before, but haven’t had many chances to explore each other without interruptions - and he wasn’t about to let this opportunity be passed up. Gently, he moved him so he was settled above her, never breaking away from her lips. With both hands free, he ran them along the curves of her body, taking in every reaction he got from her. 

He toyed with the end of her shirt before slid a hand tentatively up her waist underneath, watching her face for any signs of discomfort. Her skin was soft and warm under his palm and he wanted to touch every inch to see if all of her was just as soft. He stopped just as he reached the lace that covered her breasts, she grabbed his hand and placed it on top of the lace. Luca groaned, leaning down he kissed along her neck and fondled her breast feeling her nipple harden under his hand. 

When he tweaked it with his fingers she moaned and arched into his rock hard dick, driving him wild. Harper moaned “fuckkkk. Don’t stop, please.” With that confirmation, he pushed her shirt up and tugged down her bralette so he could have a taste. Her fingers were wound into his hair - keeping his head in place as he nipped and sucked on her tits. She was breathing hard and he started to wonder if he could make her come from just this. But as he grinded his hips against hers, she started to beg for more. 

 “Tell me what you want Harper. I need to hear it.”

“I wanna come, I’m so close -” She spread her legs wide, needing the friction from his cock.

He cupped her pussy through her joggers and pressed his palm against her clit causing her to cry out. “Tell me what you want.” She bucked her hips against his hand wanting more contact but he pulled away. “Be a good girl and tell me what you want.” Leaning down he ghosted his lips against her nipples, he never thought he was into someone begging him - but having Harper like this? Oh boy - he was about to come in his pants. 

She gasped and he took her nipple into his mouth again, “please! Please, your- your hands -” He pushed his hand into her pants and felt his way along her folds - she was soaked. 

Slowly he pushed one finger into her channel. He groaned at the feeling of her clenching on his finger as she grinded against his hand. His other hand was busy toying with her nipples loving how her body reacted when he gave them a harsh tug or twist. She likes it a little rough - he could feel his control slipping every time she pleaded and moaned his name. He wasn’t going to last and neither was she. 

He quickly slipped two more fingers inside, stretching her more; she flooded his hand with her juices, and he licked his lips wanting a taste - but knew that would have to wait for another night. She cried out as he curled his fingers inside of her - relentlessly hitting her g-spot again and again. “Oh FUCK! Yes Dom right there! Please!” 

He kept up that pace as he continued to suck on her nipples leaving love bites as he moved from one to the other. She tried bucking her hips again to get him to touch her clit, but he used his other palm to hold her hips in place.

When her legs began to shake and her breathing became ragged, he firmly pushed his palm against her clit and watched her arch off the bed and scream his name. She came hard, her walls pulsing around his fingers. As she eased down from her high, he pulled out his hand from her now soaked pants. 

He sat back on his knees to get a good look at her, none of the times he had fantasized about her compared to what she looked like right now. She had a completely blissed out smile on her face, her nipples were still hard and wet and moved with every breath she took. I should've taken her shirt all the way off. He thought to himself and brought his fingers to his mouth, sucking her cum off of them. Harper moaned as she watched him suck on his fingers - keeping eye contact the whole time.  

As he moved down to kiss his way up her stomach, he whispered, “I can’t wait to taste you and watch you come all over my mouth. Will you beg for me to use my fingers again?” She whined as he lightly grazed a nipple with his teeth, “or will my tongue be enough?” Wanting to draw out more pleasure, he licked up the column of her neck, feeling her rapid heart beat under his tongue. He gave her other nipple a quick twist causing her to yelp, then pushed his aching erection against her core again. “Or maybe you’ll want my cock next time?” Before she could respond, he crashed his lips against hers, making her moan and wrap her arms around him- tasting herself on his tongue. 

“Holy shit.” she whispered, still a bit breathless.

Luca just chuckled, he’s never heard her swear more than he did these past twenty minutes.  He pecked at her lips before fixing her bra and shirt and moved to lay beside her. 

She snuggled into him, her thigh brushing against his erection. “Dom?” 

“Yea?” 

“Can I take care of this for you?” she smoothed a hand down his stomach to the waistband on his sweats. He shuddered as she kissed along his neck holy fuck. Don’t say - “Please, Dom?” 

He groaned out a yes as she shimmied her way down his body with an excited smile on her face. She tugged on his pants and he raised his hips and helped her push down his sweats and briefs.

“Holy shit.” 

He watched her run her hands up his thighs as she licked her lips - holy fuck did she like this? 

He’s had his dick sucked plenty of times - but none of the girls he’d been with had looked at him like this. Luca knew he was big; he knew that the joke about big shoes = big dick didn’t apply to everyone, but in his case it was true. And - FUCK if she kept stroking him like she was he was going to explode. He gasped and closed his eyes when she licked up the pre-cum that was leaking out of his tip, and used all of his willpower to not buck his hips as she wrapped her mouth around the head of his cock and began to suck. 

Luca was panting and trying to think of something - anything - to keep himself from blowing his load when she took him deeper into her mouth and pumped what couldn’t fit with her hand. But he was losing it - he was already close to finishing while he watched her fuck herself on his fingers. He looked down at her bobbing her head, staring as she took in more of his dick each time she moved down and swirling her tongue around the head when she pulled back - 

“Harper- Harper I’m going to come you gotta-” she gave him a hard suck on his tip before taking him deep in her mouth again. “Harper!” He came with a shout - thick ropes of cum shooting down her throat - she kept him deep in her mouth until he was done, slowly pulling him out with a pop from her lips. He was panting like he just sprinted a mile- and was pretty sure he blacked out for a moment. 

She wiped her mouth with the back of her hand and crawled back up to lay beside him again. He pulled her close and kissed her hard. He was still panting when he pulled away, “holy fuck - that was… Holy fuck.” 

She giggled snuggling in close to him after he pulled up his pants, “right back at ya, Dom. That was amazing.” 

“You - where the hell did you learn how to do that?” He genuinely wanted to know, because if it was one of her fantasy books she loved - he was going to personally write a thank you to the author.

She smiled and shook her head, trying not to laugh. 

He arched an eyebrow at her reaction to that. He quickly sat up and halfway leaned over her again, caging her in. “Oh now you have to tell me. Come on baby - what book did you read that in?” 

She tried to wiggle out of his grip - her whole body shaking from trying to hold in her laughter. He wasn’t letting her go until he got an answer out of her. After she took a deep breath to calm down, Harper looked him square in the eyes. 

“Sofie Taylor” 

Everyone walking down the 2200 block of East Hollywood at that moment could hear Dom howling in laughter.

The Boys House

Jim POV 

Jim had arrived home late in the afternoon to find Luca and Harper on the newly arranged furniture. Luca was playing COD while Harper was laying with her head on his lap. Hearing the door open, Luca paused the game and looked back at Jim smiling brightly like always. 

“My man! What’s up! 

“Yo! Hey Harper. Good to see you too.” 

“You as well, Jim,” Harper sat up and smiled at him, tucking a card into the book to keep her page. “We were just thinking about ordering pizza. What kind do you want?” 

He smiled at the two of them, “olives and mushrooms please.” 

“You two sit down and play, I’ll order.” She stood up and kissed Dom quickly before moving towards the bedrooms. 

“Have it be for delivery, H. And you can stay out here with us.”   Jim watched Luca’s eyes follow Harper as she walked into the kitchen.

God he had it bad.

She shook her head. “I’ve got to make a work call after I order. I’ll come back out once I'm done.” 

As she left the room Jim noticed an insignia the sweats Harper was wearing and smirked before sitting next to Luca - who was already chatting away and setting up so they both could play. 

After playing a few chapters of the game, Jim spoke, “So, what did you and Harper do today?” 

“Hm? Oh we went to a farmers market then came back here and hung out.” 

“That sounds like fun, man. Get anything cool at the market?”

“No - we didn’t stay too long. Harper got a few things. You should come along next time, they have a lot of free samples, and the vendors are really cool.” 

“Sure thing.” 

He gave Luca the side eye as they continued to play. Luca gave him a weird look. “What? Why are you looking at me like that?” 

“So you two just ‘hung out?’” 

Luca rolled his eyes, “yes Street - I told you we were taking things slow.” 

“Riighhhtt. Right, you DID mention that.” he exaggerated, trying to see if Luca could figure out how Street knew something happened.

He didn’t. Or he was doing a great job at hiding it. “Alright? Do you want to keep playing? Or?” 

“Come on man- you two fucked - or got a little freaky at least.” 

“We - Huh?? No we didn’t” 

“Then why is she wearing your pair of SWAT sweatpants?” 

Luca’s face went beet red - he tried to sputter out an excuse but Jim wasn’t hearing. 

Busted.

Jim chuckled as Luca made him swear to secrecy. 

Chris now owes Street 20 bucks.

Chapter Text

Let It Be 

This is our sanctuary

We can find shelter and peace

This is our sanctuary

You are, you are safe with me

- Sanctuary by Welshly Arms 

Maggie’s Mocha and Music

Dom POV 

“I know you think it’s cute - and it is, but I think you can do better.” Maggie counseled, arranging the freshly baked muffins in the display case. 

Luca had gotten to the shop early to talk with Maggie about birthday presents for Harper. He was running out of ideas; Maggie had shot down every single one he suggested. 

“Well, what are you getting her?” he whined, rocking DeMarco in his arms while she worked. He didn’t even care if he was sounding desperate now. He was. 

“I’m getting her a book from her wish list.” 

He was running out of ideas. And time. There were exactly four weeks left until her birthday. And if he needed to order something he needed to do it asap. “Where can I find her wish list?” 

She rolled her eyes and pulled up Harper’s good reads profile. Luca took note of a few of the books but didn’t want to settle for something everyone else would be getting her. “Is that all you guys ever give her?”

“No - she’s very easy to please. Rocky literally gave her a heart shaped rock last year and said that she was his favorite aunt - she cried.” Somehow Luca could believe that. She loved her nephews fiercely. 

“So why isn’t a first edition of her favorite book series a good idea?? You’re literally getting her a book. Or what about a spa day? We both know she could use it.” 

“She says and I quote ‘Why would I want an expensive copy of a book I already have?’ and trust me, she doesn’t need any extra copies. She has enough.” She stood up and looked at him, “and for the spa day for her birthday - like I said, it’s a good idea. But not for her birthday - she likes being around the people she cares about. I expect great things from you. And you can do much better than a book.” 

He ran a frustrated hand through his hair then looked down at the baby on his arm, “Marco- your mom is being mean to me.” The baby in his arms made happy babbling noises and rubbed his face against Luca’s shirt. “Come on Marco - tell your Mama to help me out.” 

The doors chimed, and in came Harper. She made her way over to Luca smiling softly. “Hi there, stranger,” she teased, kissing him quickly. 

He smirked, “you kiss every stranger you meet?” 

“Only the cute ones. Now let me see that baby.” 

Luca held Marco to his chest and turned away from her. “No thank you, we’re bonding.” 

“Dom! You’ve gotta share.” She pouted at him. He turned to get a good look at her. He knew that she got home at a decent time last night, and they didn’t stay up too late talking, knowing they would see each other this morning. But she looked exhausted, her eyes were half closed with dark bags underneath. 

So bossy in the mornings. The sleep deprivation probably isn’t helping. He kissed her pout and nodded towards the counter. “Get your coffee first, grumpy. Then I’ll let you hold him.” 

She nodded, walking towards the counter to grab her drink. She turned to Maggie, “Mags- how are you?” 

Maggie shrugged, “Parker was in the recording studio all night, so it was just me against the little monster.” She looked at Harper critically, “looks like you had a rough night.”

“Eh - same old same old.” Harper took a sip of her coffee and looked over at Luca, who was staring right at her while rocking the baby. Him holding Marco was an adorable sight to see, but she wanted to hold him.

She went back over and sat down at a table Luca was standing by and held out her arms expectantly. 

Luca rolled his eyes and handed over Marco who snuggled into her chest. He sat down at the table with her and fed her pieces of a muffin he’d bought. “Did you sleep at all last night? We got off the phone at like 9 PM.” 

She shook her head while taking another sip of her coffee. “Had a lot on my mind. I’ll be alright after I finish this.” 

Her attention turned to the baby in her arms as Luca stared at her worriedly. She had told him about some of the things that kept her up at night, besides her sister. The list was… daunting. And he knew there was more. 

Jim and her had bonded over not having the best parents growing up. Harper didn’t share a lot with him - besides saying her step dad was a piece of work. But he had a growing suspicion that it’s why she works with victims of domestic violence, if she was one herself. It made sense. But it worried him all the same. 

“So, Harper,” Luca started. 

She looked up at him smiling, “yes?” 

“What are you wanting to do for your birthday?” 

“Hmm.. Maybe something midday so the kids can be there? Just something fun, and casual.” 

He smiled and nodded at her suggestion. I can practically hear Maggie singing ‘I told you so’ in her head. “We’ll have to find a spot to do it. But that sounds fun.” 

She smiled but her eyes were zoned out. He could tell her mind was spinning but couldn’t figure out why. “Harper? Baby, you ok?” 

She blinked a few times before focusing on him. “Yea, I’m alright.” 

“Is something on your mind?” 

Harper smirked and tilted her head to the side in thought, “there's a lot going on up here.”

“I don’t doubt that. Anything you want to share?”

After gulping down the rest of her drink, she started to crack her knuckles again. Luca reached over to hold her hand. She took a deep breath and started to go on and on. “Do you think your friends would want to come to the party? I really want to meet them. And your parents too. Is it weird to invite them to that? But what if you guys are on call - or what if I get called. What if your parents don’t like me? Or-” 

“Hold up - pump the brakes. You want to meet the rest of the team?” 

After taking a calming breath, she nodded. “You’ve met all of my friends. I wanna meet the rest of yours.”

He smiled at that, He couldn’t wait for them to meet her. “I’ll put the word in. We’ll get it done. Second, we already talked about you meeting my parents. They’re excited to meet you. My mom has been ready to meet you since I first mentioned you, my dad - well, he hasn’t said anything negative, which means he likes you too.” 

She sighed sitting back in her seat then smirked at him. Oh boy here we go. 

“I know it was a long time ago for you, but what did you do for your 32nd birthday?” 

He rolled his eyes at her and shook his head, “I’ll have to verify with the museum- but I think that was the year a couple of buddies of mine went to Huntington Beach and surfed most of the day. Hit a few bars that night, but that was about it. Was hung over for dinner the next day with the family.” 

She giggled. “Surfing sounds fun. I’ve gone a couple of times.” 

“Wanna go with me sometime?” 

“When it’s a little warmer out. I’m not getting into the Pacific until the air is hot enough to warm me back up.” 

“Fine by me - can’t wait to see you in shorties.” he said, winking at her. 

“Oh back at ya big guy.” Her phone chimed, after reading the alert she groaned, “I gotta get going. But I’ll see you Monday, if not sooner. How did you score tickets to the Rhythm Room again?” 

“You know I know a guy.” He took Marco back from Harper and watched her pack up to leave. 

“Of course you do,” she snickered, leaning down to kiss him once. “I’ll call you tonight.” 

“I’ll be waiting.” 

Monday  Morning 

HOME Headquarters 

Harper POV

Harper was munching on her third cookie as they walked into her office with Ms. Harrelson. Charise was usually on the third floor volunteering with HOME’s teen mothers program, but she wanted to talk. “Charise, as always these cookies are delicious. Is there something I can help you with?” 

“I’ve got some questions about fostering. I know you’ve been approved.” 

She sat down at her desk, what a curveball. She knows she mentioned it a few times, but it was months ago. “I haven’t taken any kids in yet. I’ve been thinking of stepping away a bit more, getting someone to fill the Senior Director of Programs role for me. Before I start fostering.”

“That’s good. You need to live your life a little, I heard a little rumor that you’re dating someone from my son’s SWAT team.”

She arched an eyebrow, “who told you?” 

“Hondo, you know I was going to try to set the two of you up.” 

“You told me your son was a player.” 

“Well - he’s working on it. Needs the right person to help him through it, but you seem happier with your man, so I won’t be too sore at not getting you as a daughter-in-law.” 

Harper laughed at that, she would’ve loved to have Charise in her family, but she’ll take her as a friend. “I am.” and God does it feel good. 

Devin popped her head into her officer “Harper? Mark O’Toole is here again.”

“Fucckkkkkkk whyyyyy?” That was short lived.

“Harper - language.” Charise scolded. 

“Sorry Ms. Harrelson.” She gave her a sheepish smile. Maybe she was a bit of a mother figure for Harper after all. 

“He’s probably going to ask you to go on ‘The Saudade’ again to try to bone you.” Devin said in a terrible posh sounding accent. 

Charise shook her head. “He is still chasing your tail? He thinks the sun comes up just to hear him crow.” She scoffed, while straightening a few things in Harper's office that didn’t need it. 

Devin gave a sympathetic smile to Harper, “I’d tell him you’re not here, but he saw you walk in apparently.” 

She groaned again and put her head on her desk. There goes my 40 free minutes. “Can you tell him I died? Or that aliens abducted me? Or that -” 

“You have a ‘meeting’ in 15 minutes.” Devin said matter of factly. 

“I guess that is more believable than the aliens bit.” she sighed and leaned back in her chair, starting to feel a headache coming. I should call them my Mark headaches. “You can scan him up, Devin. Just let me know when my next ‘meeting’ is set to start. I’ll see you two in a bit.” 

After her less than thrilling talk with Mark, she sat with Charise and talked about the fostering process, giving her some websites and manuals to look over to further her understanding. And talked about the process to be approved for fostering. 

After she left, Harper spent three hours working with her Programs Associate, Josh, and Volunteer Coordinator, Emily, going over programs they had outlined for the next several months. They ran numbers, brought in their Ads Director to talk about advertisements. They talked about outreach opportunities in areas, which meant more people that Harper had to meet and build a connection with. 

Their strategies were working, which was amazing since it meant more people were seeking their help. But with that meant more work, she realized that she would need to talk to her other directors about bringing on additional staff and volunteers to help with the influx. 

Sophia, her off-sight Safe Housing Coordinator, came to give her updates on the new places they purchased. They needed to run numbers and discuss what contractors to bring in to make the necessary renovations. Harper considered asking Dom who he had working on his house, but thought it was best to keep this part of their relationship separate. She trusted him, and knew he wouldn’t share anything. 

Maybe I’ll ask him tonight, she thought to herself. Any contractors they brought on were never aware of exactly what they were working on. Just another place that needed fixing up. 

That was the way they liked to keep it. She scratched at her arm thinking about the work that needed done. But trusted everyone she worked with to get this done. If all she had to do after stepping back from Director of Programs was shake hands and get donations from donors, she’d breathe easier. 

But all of that work had her feeling like sludge the second half of the day. There was no other word for how worn out she was. Her feet ached from her heels, her eyes were burning from staring at the computer screen, and as much as she wanted to see Dom, she wanted to just melt into her couch. Maybe eat a pint of ice cream and soak her feet in epsom salt. 

She felt like an ass for canceling over text - but she knew he was still at work, maybe even out on a call. Before she could change her mind, she pushed send. 

Harper: Hey Dom, I’m sorry but I’m going to have to cancel tonight. 

She set her phone down to try and get more work done. Not even two minutes later, her phone started to vibrate with a call. Dom’s photo popped up on the screen.

“Hello?” 

“What’s going on?” 

Always straight to the point. She sighed, “I just… I’ve had a really long day. I feel gross, I’ve been running around all day to different meetings, my feet hurt, my hair is a mess… I just, I don’t feel like going out anywhere.” 

“Then we don’t have to go out.” 

“You wanted to see that band-” 

“Honey no, I want to see you. I don’t care what we do.”

She paused, “so you’re fine with doing nothing?”

“Are you ok with me coming over?” 

“Yes of course” She didn’t have to think about it, she trusted him. 

“Ok then how about this- you drive your gorgeous ass home, shower, change into some comfy clothes. Then I’ll bring over sushi and we’ll argue over which movie to watch after we eat. Sound good? I’ll call Maggie and see if she and Parker want to go instead. It’ll be good for those two to go out.” 

“You’re seriously fine with staying in?” 

“I just want to see more of you. So if that means eating take-out and watching whatever silly romance movie you want me to watch, cause lets face it, you’ll win the argument, I’ll do it. You can call me a sap or whatever you’d like, but that’s what we’re doing tonight.”  

She was stunned, trying hard to hold back tears. Holy moley this guy. She couldn’t even begin to describe all the emotions running through her, but she must have been silent for longer than she thought, “you still with me Harper?” 

“I’m here. I just… wow. I um.. ok yea. Let’s watch a movie and eat sushi on the couch.” 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

An hour later she was home cleaning up her place and waiting for Dom to get off work. Checking her phone for the 100th time, she finally had something.

Dom💙: I’ll be at your place in 30 minutes. I’ll eat all of the food on your porch if you aren’t ready for me 😘

  Harper: You wouldn’t dare. 

Dom💙: Don’t test me baby I’m starving. 

Harper: Ok, I just got done cleaning up. I’ll take a shower and wait for you to get here. 

She giggled and texted him back as she turned the shower on to let it heat up. Ernie was sitting on the counter staring at her, she rubbed behind his ears and listened to him purr. 

Dom💙: Better idea - you wait and we’ll shower together. I’ll wash your back if you wash mine 😏

Harper: As tempting as that is, maybe next time 😘😘I’ll see you soon. 

Harpers House 

Dom POV  

The blinds were closed when he walked up the front porch steps, but he could tell the lights were on. Ringing the doorbell, he stepped back waiting for her to disarm the door and open up for him. 

Harper’s feet were clad in white tube socks, which made the red-brown ochre color of her legs glow. He got an eyeful of her shapely legs that were on full display thanks to the skin tight biker shorts she was wearing. God bless whoever made biker shorts. 

“Hi” she smiled brightly at him.

“Hi yourself,” he took a step into her house and kissed her once before shutting the door behind him. “I didn’t know you were an Angels fan.” Tugging at the sweatshirt she had on.

She shrugged, “I’ve been to a few games, I’m taking Jack and Rocky to a game in July.” 

“Rocky plays right?” He kissed her forehead, stepping into the house,

“Yeah he does. Come on in.”

He moved more inside and had a look around, “holy shit.” 

Her living room had one wall that was completely a bookcase, piled with books, trinkets, and string lights. The other walls around the space had floating bookshelves mounted and were also stacked full of books. All the lights in the space were a warm, golden light that reminded him of candles. 

“I told you I read a lot.” 

“I believed you,” he walked around her living room. Her sectional was covered in throw pillows and soft blankets, a soft glow was coming from the TV - replaying a soccer game.. He chuckled, “but seeing it is a completely different thing.” Luca looked to the right and saw the kitchen, complete with an island and barstools, it looked barely used. 

She did say she doesn’t cook often. 

“Want a tour before we eat?” 

He smiled at her and set the bags of food down on the coffee table, “of course.” 

She took his hand and led him down the hall, “Obviously, there’s my kitchen, the door leads to the garage,” as they moved down the hall she opened a door to her right, “this is the spare room, when I babysit this is where the boys will sleep, besides that it’s storage.” The next door on that side was a closet, then the bathroom. 

“The famous clawfoot bathtub,” he chuckled. 

Harper just shrugged, “well worth it. A bottle of wine and some bubbles in that baby and I’m a happy camper.” 

“I’ll keep that in mind,” he said. She laughed and tugged him into the last room. Much like her living room, her bedroom was adorned with a bookshelves and soft lights. Not as full as the living room, but still impressive. The only word that could come to Luca’s mind to describe her house is cozy. 

“So what do you think?” 

He wrapped his arms around her, “I love it, Thank you for letting me in here.” He gently swayed her in his arms, perching his chin on the top of her head, “I think - on another timeline, you were a bookshop owner, or a librarian you know? Like your whole house is this little escape from reality. It’s beautiful, you've put in so much work to make it what it is now.” 

Harper’s eyes looked deep brown in this lighting, “I actually wanted to be a librarian growing up.” 

“No way? Really?” 

“Books were my escape growing up, they still are.” 

He smiled and kissed her forehead, “let’s get some food.” Luca turned to look at the other wall and saw a gallery. Photos were all adorned in frames, some were old and grainy, others were newer; cluttered in the spaces in between the frames were little notes, thank you cards, and children's drawings  “Wow Harper.” Luca moved closer reading some of the notes, mostly thank you’s, love notes, and funny messages, before moving on to the pictures. 

“This is my ‘reasons’ wall.” 

“Reasons why you do what you do?” 

She nodded, she went to fiddle with her hands but he squeezed the hand he was holding. rubbing his thumb along her knuckles, “they keep me going on the bad days.” 

He nodded, looking closer. “I recognize some of these people,” pointing to a group photo of her and the girls from their time at UCLA. “Who is everyone else?” 

She pointed to a group of older photos, taken on polaroids, “these two are my Dad’s parents, Lovey and Rudo. And then again with me when I was born.” She pointed next to a group photo, “this was at our first HOME annual gala, I threw up in the bathroom right before this picture was taken I was so nervous to present.” 

He laughed at that. She pointed to a picture of her holding two small boys on her shoulders, “Rocky and Jack. DeMarco, when he was born,” she moved down the wall, Luca stayed right beside her. “This was my mom and dad on their wedding day. And then this is after I was born.” 

He looked closely at the photos then at her. She was the perfect mix of both, she had her dad’s darker skin tone, but her mothers smile and eyes. Both pictures were candid of the couple, “You can tell how in love they were.” 

“Oh yea. Very much a ‘star-crossed lovers’ story. I’ll tell you one day.” 

Luca smiled and squeezed her hand, “who’s all in this?” pointing to a group shot taken around a Christmas tree.

“That’s me with all the Vitalis’ - Dio’s family.” 

“The guy with the slicked back hair in the corner?” 

“Yea, he has more gray now. One of my favorite Christmases.” 

Luca looked at the ones that were left, he saw one of Harper. It was just like the photo in her office, but of just her and the young girl. Molly.  

Harper must have been a teenager in the photo, they were both smiling at the camera. “Is that Molly?”

She nodded, “she would’ve been 22 this October.” 

His chest felt tight, “I’m so sorry Harper.” Luca didn’t know what he would do if he had lost both his parents and his brother, losing his grandpa made him feel lost and angry for a while. But everyone?… no.  

“It was a long time ago.” 

How? “I’m still sorry.” 

Harper turned to look up at him, “enough pictures for now. Come on, let's eat.” 

He pulled out all the food while Harper got them plates and drinks. He looked back at her in the kitchen - she looked more at ease here than he’s ever seen her.

This is her sanctuary. She let me into her sanctuary. 

Looking around the living room again he saw some of the photos they had taken together on a shelf. One was of the two of them sharing ramen in K town - his favorite picture. He got up and looked around at all the books she had, he could never imagine reading this many. 

He looked over at her again pouring water into glasses, “Babe - how do you have these organized?” 

She grimaced, “I don’t really have it organized. If it’s a series I tried putting them all together, but besides that, it’s in order of when I read them. Kind of.” 

He frowned at that. “Doesn’t seem like you. You have a system for everything.” 

She set the glasses on the coffee table then came over and wrapped her arms around his waist from behind. “This is the one place I feel like I don’t have to. So I don’t. Do I wish I could find certain copies of my books more easily? Yes. But it feels like too big of a project. I’d rather focus my energy elsewhere.” 

“Like picking what movie we’re going to watch?” 

Harper rested her head between his shoulder blades smiling. “We’re not watching a movie. We’re going to watch the Great British Bake Off and make bets on who’s going to win.” 

Luca chuckled, turning around to hold her properly, “oh is that right? And if I don’t want to place money on a tv show?” 

“Who said we were betting money?” Harper kissed his shoulder and slowly made her way up his neck, “we can bet whatever we want,” she purred in his ear. 

This baking show doesn't sound like a bad idea. 

Hours past of them yelling at the contestants, feeding each other sushi, and cuddling on the couch. For someone who didn’t like to be idle for too long, it came as a shock to Luca that he actually enjoyed this. He didn’t mind sitting around watching TV if it was with her. Their constant teasing and taunts were anything but boring. He couldn’t get enough.

Harper POV

She could smell coffee, and felt a warm hand running up and down her back. 

“Good morning sunshine,” Dom spoke softly, trying to coax her awake. 

She growled at him - too bad she’s actually a monster in the mornings. He chuckled and kissed along her forehead. Harper has told him several times how much she hates waking up early. 

She rolled onto her side to give him a death glare but he just smiled and kissed her again. “Come on grouch, I made you coffee. I have to leave soon.” 

She groaned while sitting up, her hair was frizzy from sleeping on the couch (and she was pretty sure Dom was running his fingers through her curls at some point). 

Rubbing the sleep out of her eyes seemed to help some - but the coffee mug that got placed in her hands helped more. She mumbled a thank you and stood up to follow him around. 

He washed his face and used an extra tooth brush she had- she brushed hers as well. How domestic of us. Dom was smiling at her through the mirror. She chuckled, “what are you looking at?” 

“You’re gorgeous, even when you're grouchy.” 

She rolled her eyes at his comment. Looking in the mirror, she knew today would have to be a hair scarf day, she had fly-aways poking out every which way. But as the coffee worked its way through her, she actually felt… rested? It was an odd feeling. 

They went back to the kitchen to fill up on more coffee and make something for Dom to take to work. She opened the fridge to look for something to make him. “What do you want for breakfast? I think I have eggs - “ 

She yelped in surprise at being grabbed around the waist. He lifted her up onto the counter - that smile - oh god that smile was dangerous. 

“If it’s alright with you… I would rather have you for breakfast”

Her face was on fire as she sat her coffee down beside her. He can’t be serious!  

He started kissing her hard, making her melt against him. She wrapped her arms and legs around him, pulling him close. His hands were touching and groping everywhere he could reach. After a few minutes, he cupped her through her shorts and licked his lips, gazing at her.

He was not -

“Can I taste you baby?” 

This was not how she was expecting her Tuesday morning to start. “You- you want to eat me out?” 

“Yes.” 

“Right now?” 

“Yes.” 

She frowned in thought. “On my kitchen island?” 

He chuckled, kissing down her neck and pushed his hand more firmly against her. “I can definitely move us to the couch or your bed if you’d be more comfortable there. But yes, I wanna eat you out. Right now.” 

She shuddered when he lightly sucked on her neck. “I’ve never.. I never really liked it when it was done to me. It didn’t feel good.” 

Dom pulled back to look at her, his hands rubbing at her sides. “How many times have you tried with someone?” 

“Like… twice?” 

He hummed in thought as he pulled her close again, and kissed her gently. “Can we try? If you don’t like it or aren’t turned on, we can stop and do something else.” 

She nodded her head moving in to kiss him again. “Can we go to my room?” He smiled and lifted her off the counter. She gasped, trying to put her legs down, but he had a firm grip on her thighs. “Dom! I’m too heavy, put me down!” 

He pinned her to the wall of her kitchen, like he’s done many times against her front door. His eyes were dark. “Let me make one thing clear. You are not too heavy for me to carry.” he pushed his hips into hers, she felt his dick against her, making her wet. “Having you in my arms like this is driving me fucking wild. I can’t wait to have you against a wall like this,” he breathed hard against her neck, before pulling her off the wall and continuing to carry her towards her bedroom, “but I’ve got plans for you this morning baby.”

Holy fucking fuck. Her vajayjay was doing backflips at the things he was saying to her. She felt her face would permanently feel this hot if he kept talking to her like that. Soon enough, she found herself being laid out on her mattress looking up into Dom’s eyes. 

He languidly made out with her, touching, caressing, grinding against her until she started to pant. “You gotta tell me what you’re feeling, if there’s something I do that you don't want - or if there’s something that feels really good, you gotta tell me. Ok?” 

“I will. I trust you, Dom.” He eventually settled his hands along her waistband and toyed with it - silently asking for permission. 

She nodded, and quickly found herself out of her shorts and panties. 

He had a firm grip on her thighs as he stared down at her. Why did he stop? 

Looking down at him he caught him staring at her legs. Oooh tattoo number one has been revealed. Three black butterflies took up her upper right thigh, floating their way up towards her hip. 

“I think butterflies are my favorite now.” He kissed each one - slowly leading closer and closer to her core.

She was trying to stay still as she felt him kiss her outer folds before pushing her legs further apart. His hot breath on her pussy made her want to clamp her legs together, but his firm grip on her prevented that. Slowly, he pushed his tongue inside and toyed with her - trying to learn what she liked. 

She gasped when he flicked his tongue softly over her clit, “yesssssss. Right there Dom.”

He kept a constant rhythm with his tongue, making her cry out again. One hand gripped her thigh, while the other roamed.

“Oh fuck!” She cried out, as he started to push a finger inside of her. 

She could barely think when he started to curl his finger just the way she liked, she ran her fingers through his hair, not sure if she wanted to push him closer or pull him away. The only sounds in the room were her breathing and his longue lapping at her.

Dom could tell she was close, and when he added another finger, she screamed his name. Her whole body trembled as she rode out her orgasm. Her whole body felt like jello, she could faintly feel him kissing her thighs before crawling up to kiss her. 

She moaned into the kiss, she was weirdly turned on by tasting herself on hip lips - but her brain was in no condition to work through that at the moment. When she opened her eyes Dom was staring down at her smiling softly. 

Harper started to move her hands down to his sweats, wanting to take care of him but was stopped by Dom. “I have to get going or I’m going to be late.” 

“But, you-” 

He silenced her with a kiss, “I’ll be fine babe. Now put some pants on so you can punch in your code- don’t want to wake the neighborhood by setting off the alarm.” 

She giggled and reached for her shorts to slip them back on. By the time she got to the hallway, Dom was zipping up his jacket and reaching for his keys. “Thank you for staying the night - even if it wasn’t planned.” 

He pulled her into his arms. “I liked it, maybe next time we can sleep in the bed? I woke up with pins and needles in my arms.” 

“I like the sound of that.” She kissed him before opening the door for him. “Be safe, ok? I’ll text you later.” 

“I will babe,” he started walking to his truck before turning back to her, “oh, Harper?” 

“Yea?” She was leaning against her door frame watching him leave. 

Dom gave her a wicked grin, “thanks for breakfast.” 

Chapter Text

Hit Me With Your Best Shot

And now we're slightly weathered, we're slightly worn

Our hands grip together, eye to eye through the storm, yet

I still believe in ever after with you, yeahhhhh

Cuz life is a pleasure with you by my side,

And there ain't no current in this river we can't ride

I still believe in ever after with you

Ever After by Bonnie Bailey 

HOME Headquarters 

Harper POV 

Her stomach hurt from laughing at him, she wiped away the tears that spilt over and looked again at his beet red face. He had just told her all the nonsense that he was subjected to at work today. Street had let it slip that he spent the night at her place the other night, and the team wouldn’t let him live it down. 

“You know you’re supposed to be with me, not against me on this.”

She looked over at him. He was sitting on her couch with his arms crossed over his chest. He was trying his best to look angry but it just made him look like he ate something sour. 

She came over and straddled his lap and kissed him lightly, “Is this better?”

His lip tilted up at the side, “no.” 

She kissed him again, wrapping her arms loosely around his neck. He groaned and pulled her closer, running a hand down the curve of her ass. “How about now?” She kissed his cheek twice before pulling back to look at his face. 

Dom shook his head, but he was smiling now. “One more, please.” 

Harper laughed, putting her forehead against his, “it’s never just one more with you. You know?” In two weeks, she would be turning 32, and she never thought she would have all that she had now. People she trusted, who she wanted in her life and who wanted her in it as well. It felt so good, she’s made a home, she made a family. And as he pulled her in closer, she felt safe. 

He moved and kissed her again, “I’m counting on it.” 

Dom POV

God she’s pretty. She had an old UCLA crew neck on and leggings that would be at the center stage of Lucas wet dreams for weeks to come. “Alright Honey, are you ready to show me your moves?” 

Harper laughed and did a quick juke move with her feet “I don’t think you’re ready for me baby.” 

“Alright alright, want me to help you wrap your hands?” 

She held up her purple hand wrapping “I’ll never turn down you holding my hands” 

Dom laughed “Oh and who's the sap now?” She shrugged and handed over the wraps then held out her hands to him, he turned and pushed up her sleeves so he could wrap easier, then turned her left hand to be palm up, “woah where did you get these?” he lightly traced the palm of her left hand. It was not very visible on the palm anymore, a lighter line starting between her thumb and pointer finger then went down past her wrist before disappearing under her sweatshirt. The scar on her arm was raised and bumpy. Knife wound? How did I not see this before?

“Kitchen knife, when I was a teenager.” 

Stay calm Luca, he started wrapping her hand, “so an accident or what?” He felt her stiffen, fuck.

“Not an accident.” 

He sucked in a breath and looked at her face. He knew it wasn’t an accident from the angle of the cut. Did she try to grab a knife from someone? She was looking down at her arm before looking up at him. “You don’t have to tell me right now if you don’t want to. Can’t imagine it’s an easy topic.” 

“Dom- I want to tell you. It's just-” 

He squeezed her hands so she would look at him. “That’s alright.” She let out a shaky breath. He moved onto wrapping her right hand, some scaring, but nothing like the left. “I do have one question that I want answered.” 

She shuffled her feet “...ok” 

“Whoever did this -” 

“He’s gone.” Harper said quickly. 

He’s gone. Luca visibly relaxed, then moved one of his hands to cup her cheek. “Ok. That’s all I need to know for now.” He kissed her, “now come on, show me those moves.” 

She grabbed the front of his shirt and kissed him again, “thanks for not pressing me.” 

There were a million questions running through his head. But he’s going to ignore it for now to focus on her.

He smiled softly at her, “I plan on sticking around Harper, ok? so just tell me when you’re ready.” please believe me Harp. You’ve gotta know that. 

She smiled back at him and let go of him to grab her gloves, “what combos do you want to start with?” 

“Oh no no put those bad boys down, we have to do some warm ups and stretches then we’ll glove up.” 

“This is going to be worse than working out with Jess,” she pouted, her lips still puffy from their makeout session in her office earlier. 

 “Come on babe work with me here. Five laps around the mats lets go!” 

She was panting hard after the drills, muscles she hadn’t worked in a while were throbbing, Luca had just started to break a sweat. Harper took a couple of swigs from her bottle, “is this payback from me laughing at you earlier?” 

He laughed at her and helped her to stand up. “Come on, time for gloves, then we’ll finish with takedowns.” 

He had her do a few simple combos, fixing her form as they went. She was more confident at disarming and take-downs than he thought she’d be. But Harper had mentioned that she used to do these a lot with Jess. But if she spent her time working with Jess, he knew there were some moves she could practice working with a partner that was a bigger build than people she’s practiced with. 

She struggled, but he was patient. They kept repeating the moves until she was actually able to land him flat on his back and her over him. Her bright smile made the later back pain worth it. He laughed when she faked punching his face, Luca grabbed her hands and placed them on his chest. 

“Man, I can get used to this view.” 

She rolled her eyes, still smiling as she leaned down and kissed him softly. “Thank you for doing this. This was so much fun.” 

“Oh you have no idea what I'd do to get a smile from you.” 

Harper shook her head. “It’s easy with you.” 

SWAT Headquarters 

Dom POV

Dom was standing in front of a monitor in the Ops room. He gave up on sleep around 6 AM and decided to come in. 

All he had to do was type in a name. He rubbed at his hands trying to think this through. He looked down at his running list in his journal that he had written late last night. His scrawl was hard for most to read, just how he liked it. 

H questions: 

Reinforced steel doors at house

 - said they were for protection from deranged partners from HOME - 

could be true, is there something else?

Windows also look like altered glass. BP? Take closer look next time

Dad died when she was 7 - she said it was heart failure.

Both her mom, [Orla, age unknown] and sister [Molly (6 or 7?)] died when she was a teenager - 

did not give any more info.                                                           ↳mom died - H was 15 y/o

23152? 

211? 

56? 

192.3?

List is endless.

She can’t sleep at night - 5 hours is ‘the highend’ for her. Said her job keeps her up. And her sister

What happened?

Jim said they got along because of their shitty dads - dad died when she was six? 

Step dad was a piece of work, mostly mental - would get physical when drunk. 

10-27: Both palms, left forearm. 

Looks like defensive

Had muscle and tendon damage 

Kitchen Knife - when she was a teenager ****** How old? Did not elaborate.

Is there more? - not visible 

Guy who did it is ‘gone’ - 

Jail? Dead? Disappeared?

Was it Step dad?

Who’s Molly’s dad?

His most recent addition to this list was giving him the most trouble 

He took a deep breath and rubbed at his eyes. 

“Luca, you're early.” Captain Cortez rounded the center table and came up beside him, “looking something up?” 

“No Cap. Just thinking is all.” 

“What’s on your mind?” 

He looked at his Captain and laughed, “I’ve got a lot going on up here,” tapping at his forehead with his pointer finger.

She smiled, shaking her head, “anything I can help with?”

He pulled at his shirt sleeves, he wasn’t ever going to look up Harper’s info. “How did Molly die?” 

Cortez looked taken back by his question. “Harper’s sister? She told you about Molly.” 

“Look, I don’t think she meant to- it was more of a slip. But then I asked without thinking and-” 

“And she’s not a liar.” Cortez looked around to see if anyone was there, “Look Luca, the fact that she’s told you anything, shows that she trusts you. A lot more than she trusted me when we first met.” 

“I- I saw the scars on her palms. A while back- she was asleep so I didn’t ask then. But when we were working out I saw her arm.” 

Her expression was unreadable as he eyed him up. “What did she tell you?” 

“That it was a kitchen knife, that  it wasn’t an accident- “ he sucked in a breath before continuing, “that  the guy who did that was ‘gone’.” he crossed his arms in frustration. 

“Are you concerned for her safety? Is that why you’re here?” 

“Of course I’m concerned, she’s my girlfriend. I love her and I want to keep her safe.” She raised her eyebrows at his admission, oh fuck. His face was beat red, “Look cap- I haven’t told her that part yet, I mean-” 

“The ‘I love you’ part? I know. I get too many updates about the two of you as is. I would have heard about that.” 

“I’m planning on telling her soon, but could you-” 

“Back to what we were talking about. She is not in any danger from that. Her job? The moderate amount that comes with it.” 

He sighed in relief at that. But his eyebrows were still drawn together, “I- I don’t want to push her. It’s just hard when you know something happened. But not what.” 

Cortez nodded her head, “when I first met her… I thought she was just another girl with a chip on her shoulder” She rocked back on her heels in thought before she continued. “She's a lot better now than she was when we first met. More sure of herself and her abilities.” She looked at the table and saw his notebook. 

He quickly closed it, “that’s easier said than done, though.” 

Jess readily agreed. “But she trusts you. That is a great place to be with her. Were you going to look anything up?” 

Luca shook his head. “I wouldn’t do that to her. I want her to tell me.” 

She nodded. “As her friend, I can tell you that that’s the easiest. As your captain, you know better than to look up things that aren’t related to any open cases.” 

He huffed out a breath. “Got it cap… thanks Jess.” 

Jess nodded, looking like she was going to say more but walked out of the ops room and over to Commander Hicks office. 

Luca looked down at his closed notebook again. Before packing it up and getting ready for his shift. He was frustrated, but felt better after talking with Jess. For now, he'll let it rest. Harper trusted him. He'll respect that. 

SWAT HQ

Dom POV 

Everyone was high on adrenaline in the locker room. They had just completely whipped out 50 David during exercises and it felt SO good to knock Rocker and Mumford down a few pegs. There was cheering all around as they started to change out of their Tac gear. 

“New SWAT record! We have celebrate!” Chris shouted. 

Street popped his head out from behind his locker door, “let’s go to Champs on Main. I’ve been craving their wings for weeks.” 

There was a round of shouts of agreements and excuses from everyone - Deacon had a moonlight gig, Tan would come as long as Bonnie was able to, Chris was in, which meant Street was in, Hondo was in- 

Street was flabbergasted. “What do you mean you’re out??  Luca! Timo is taking care of Duke right now, you said you were free earlier.” 

“Well Harper has the night off, so I was just going to go - “

“Do it some other time. I’ve been wanting to meet her.” Chris parked herself right beside Luca’s bag, “I still can’t believe she and Street are friends now too.” 

Luca rolled his eyes, at her antics. She has been on him for the last week now to bring her around for the team to meet. “What are you trying to say Chris? Street is a good guy when he wants to be. Harper wants to practice some more self defense training.” 

Street shut his locker, pulling on his flannel, “didn’t she have some guy come in last week harassing the front desk workers?” 

Luca grinded his teeth at that, he was pissed (read: worried) when he first heard about the incident - even though it turned out to be a little more than shouting from the guy. “Yeah she did. Their security handled it well, I guess.”

Hondo looked at him critically, “still doesn’t make things easy, was everyone ok?” 

He nodded, “yeah everyone was fine. She was obviously upset about it. She wants to keep everyone safe. I’ll ask her if she wants to go out instead - but you can’t be mad if she says no.” 

Chris nodded and watched as he texted her. “Why don’t you two just have the boxing date before work if it’s so hard to meet in the evenings?” 

“She’s always busy Chris- night and day. Besides, she doesn’t like waking up early unless there’s coffee involved.” he grumbled. “Oh hold up! Why aren’t Ty and Kira coming? We’ve been wanting to meet the rest of the throuple.” 

She shrugged. “Ty is working late and Kira is out of town visiting her Mom. I’ll bring them around soon enough.”

He nodded at that. If anyone could understand trying to plan things around hectic schedules it was Luca. Harper and him have a routine now. Monday and Wednesday mornings, they’d have coffee together at Maggies; Friday she would always try to leave work by four - which rarely happened (she was ‘working on it’). He wanted to see her all the time, but was happy they had something established. 

He opened his bag to continue packing away his stuff.

Tan gasped and snatched out the foreign object that was poking out of Luca’s bag, “are you READING?” He was holding the paperback like it could explode any second. 

Street just laughed, “oh yea, Harper is a major bookworm. She’s got me reading something too.” 

“I asked her if I could borrow this one, she read a bit of it outloud to me a few days ago -  and I like its style. After I finish it we’re going to watch the movie together.” 

Deacon was dumbfounded, “you hate when people try to force you into things you're not interested in.” 

He shrugged and pulled on his sleeves, Deacon had a fair point, “look I was never NOT into reading, I just never found a book that could keep my interest - especially when it wasn’t for work ya know?” He started packing again, “I don’t mind reading and studying for like- a CADRE certificate or anything like that.” 

“The Martian? Isn’t that the movie with Matt Walhberg in it?” Tan was flipping through the pages to see how far along he was. 

“Try Matt Damon, loser,” Chris snatched the book from Tan to put it back where they found it. 

Deacon was the first to finish packing up, “alright I’m off - gotta see my kids for a moment before heading out again.” 

There was a chorus of goodbyes as people turned back to focusing on changing. Tan got a message that Bonnie was down for wings and Luca checked his phone again to see if he got a response. It didn’t look like she had opened his message yet, and not wanting to hold up the gang, he decided to call her.

It rang for a while before she answered, “Dom? Is everything ok?” She was whispering, that put him on edge, and the team saw it.

“Why are you whispering?”

There was some rustling noise and the sound of children laughing close to her, “I’m playing hide and seek with some of the kids before dinner. Are you ok?” 

“Are you winning?” 

“Of course I am - I'm the reigning champion. You still haven’t answered my question. Are you ok?”  

He rolled his eyes, relaxing at her explanation, “yes I’m fine. Did you see my text? The team is going out to grab food and wanted to see if you could come.”

“No I haven’t seen it yet - It was probably while I was running to find a hiding spot. Where are y’all planning on going?” 

“Champs on Main.” 

“That sounds like fun - I haven’t been there before. I can be there in like 30 minutes.” 

“You’re going to lose a game of hide and seek for me?” 

She chuckled lightly, “there’s no honor in losing on purpose - but that doesn’t matter, I think they’ve found everyone else. Hang on.” He could hear kids yelling for her, then her popping out to scare them. They complained about her not playing fair and he snickered at hearing that. 

She does love to win. 

After a few moments of hearing her tell them goodbye she brought the phone back up to hear ear. “Are you still there?” 

“Champs - 30 minutes. You want me to order for you so it’s ready when you get there?”

“Ever the gentleman. And a sap. Yes please. Whatever food you’re getting and a Moscow mule.” 

“Only for you, Honey. I’ll be waiting.” 

When he hung up the phone he looked up to see his teammates staring at him. “What?” 

Tan just shook his head, “man, you’re whipped.” 

————

Champs

Hondo POV 

Being out with the team like this was soothing him more than he thought it would. Drinks were already flowing freely - Street and Bonnie were going light tonight so they could DD for the others. Meeting Bonnie was wonderful- she seemed to loosen Tan up which was good for him. All who was left to meet was Chris’s partners, Ty and Kira; and Luca’s girlfriend, Harper.

He knew that name sounded familiar, and while his mom had mentioned her a few times that’s not why he remembered her. Jessica had talked about her and their friends often. 

Jess. 

There was someone he was trying hard not to think about. They were both doing as good as expected. Her new relationship seemed serious, and his quick fling with Nia- well… It was fun while it lasted. He let out a frustrated breath as he tried to focus on what was in front of him. 

Daryl was on his mind a lot. And his dad. 

He took another sip of his beer and watched Chris and Luca play a game of pool. Luca, as always, was talking with his hands - Hondo could figure out what they were talking about from here. When those two were together it could get wild, both bringing out the energy in each other when they wanted to. It was honestly a friendship he didn’t see coming when Chris joined the team. 

Tan was in a heated discussion with Street and Bonnie while waiting at the bar for refills. Hondo wished Deacon and Annie were here. He still couldn’t believe they were having another baby- he remembers when Matthew was born. 

“Baby!” Luca shouted, he had his signature smile. Hondo had looked towards the door as Luca rushed over and scooped the woman up into his arms. 

Her picture really didn’t do her justice. 

Luca’s stunt made her laugh as he swung her around once before setting her back down and kissing her quickly. She looked out of place in her work clothes but she didn’t seem to notice or care, only focused on the man sliding his arm over her shoulder and leading her toward their table. 

“Cap! This is my girlfriend Harper. Harper, this is Hondo.” 

She held out her hand for them to shake, “It’s nice to meet you - Dom has told me a lot about you.” 

He clasped her hand in his, “good things I hope, same goes for you. The man won’t stop talking about you.” 

She shot a questioning look up to Luca who just smiled and shrugged at him, “of course I talk about her all the time - she’s amazing.” 

Chris was next, who pulled Harper in for a hug. “It’s so good to finally meet you.” 

She seemed shocked at first before quickly hugging her back. “You too, Chris.” She smiled warmly before getting a similar welcome from Tan and Bonnie. And a fist bump with Street. They were already good friends according to Street. Luca was ecstatic that the two of them got along. Chris pushed Street out of the way to claim the seat next to Harper that wasn’t occupied by Luca. 

Hondo laughed at their foolishness but didn’t miss the look in Street's eyes as he laughed with Chris. 

Oh boy. We’ll have to visit that later. 

They drank and swapped stories about the escapades they went though the last few weeks - filling Harper and Bonnie in on the not so bad sides of their work days. The conversations were easy, and lighthearted after the day they had. 

Hondo relaxed against the backrest of the booth. Chris and Harper were laughing to themselves about something - Luca’s arm was resting lightly over her shoulders and playing with the end of her curls subconsciously. Luca was talking to Tan and Bonnie about something - waving round his free arm to add to the story. 

Street was telling Hondo about their latest renovations - and how it was very close to being ready for a 20 Squad hangout. 

“We’re going to paint, then all head out to a food truck rally. Chris said her cousin’s truck will be there, and a few that Luca’s been wanting to try.” 

“Man, is food all you two ever think about? We’re literally about to get our wings.” 

He gave Hondo an incredulous look, “of course - guys gotta eat.” 

Hondo laughed at him, “well, I’m excited to see the place once it’s done - sounds like you two have put a lot of effort into it. So, it’s the four of you?” 

“As far as I know, yea.” he stole a glance towards Chris, which Hondo was pretending for now not to see. “You know, I wasn’t too sure of the place - when Luca and I first started really working on it. But you know how he is.” 

“Yea, gotta love that about him.” When he wants something, he’s all in. 

When the food arrived and everyone dug into their plates the conversation slowed but never stopped. Harper shared what happened on the phone with Luca had called -  that she had been frantically running to her hiding spot so much so that she ran out of her shoes. That made everyone laugh. 

“I have a reputation to uphold! I'm the reigning champion of hide and seek- and Mario Kart.” 

Luca nodded, “she’s cutthroat at any games we play. And she cheats at Mario Kart.” 

“You let her distract you at Mario Kart! You just can’t keep your head around her.” Street cut it, causing the whole table to laugh. Harper leaned up to kiss the pout off of Luca causing the man to blush even more. 

Another hour passed, the group split to the various pool tables and dart boards available. Bonnie and Tan were out on the dance floor, Luca was about to start another round of pool with Chris and Street. Hondo and Harper decided to challenge each other to a game of 301. 

“Hondo! Don’t go easy on her - and don’t let her distract you.” Luca was pointing an accusatory finger at Harper, who had the audacity to just smirk at him. 

He laughed at Luca’s accusation, and more at Harper not trying to deny that she cheated. 

She tilted her head at Luca, “I thought SWAT officers had to be ready for the unexpected?” 

Luca shook his head and grumbled about showing sportsmanship and walked towards his pool table. Oh this is going to be fun. “What did you do to him?” 

Harper laughed as she reached for the blue darts and handed him the red, “I put my ice cold toes on his side. Made him flinch so hard he fell to the floor - it was enough for me to push from third to first.” 

Hondo laughed, he couldn’t believe what he was hearing. “Oh that’s cold. Literally.” 

She weighed the darts in her hands, like that would help her. “Let’s see how good your aim is, Sargent.” 

“You play often?” 

“When I was younger, yea.” 

He smirked, “then let’s go.” 

This game was getting serious. They were tied, one to one. She had shrugged out of her blazer and put her hair up and out of her way. The first game he got lucky, the second game she smoked him. Now this was the tie breaker. And he wasn’t going to hold any punches. 

“You know- I wasn’t too sure what my opinion of you was before this.” Hondo mused as he lined up another shot. 

Harper looked at him confused, “what do you mean?”

Hondo threw his dart, hitting the twelve shot he wanted, “you know, my mama volunteers with you so I heard a lot from her. Now with Luca? He never shuts up about you.”

She rolled her eyes as she tried to line up a shot “he does not do that- please say you’re joking.”

“You miss the snow in Wisconsin, but not enough to move back. You have three nephews- hmmmm, let’s see if I can get this. Rocky, Marco, and Jack? Oh! How’s your cat Ernie doing?” She just gaped at him, not believing what she was hearing. He just laughed at her. “Like I was saying. I have heard a lot about you.” 

“Good lord - I never realized…” She nailed the treble 19 with ease. 

Really thought that would fluster her. New angle.

He shook his head, “it’s nice - we never heard a lot about “his other.. His past relationships. That’s how we knew this one was different.” 

“Well, us getting busted making out by one of his cop buddies didn’t help that either.” 

Hondo completely missed the board, causing Harper to laugh. “Dammit. Yea you got me there.” 

Harper went to pull the darts off the board for the both of them. “He’s amazing - as I’m sure you know. Makes me want more out of life than just my career. Don’t get me wrong, I love what I do- but it’s easier to see the bigger picture with him around.” 

“Yea - he’s like that.” 

“Ever the optimist.” She smiles and lines up to take another shot. “It’s good for my pessimistic heart.” 

“I wouldn’t take you for a pessimist. Mom always says you’ve got a smile on your face - a bright person to be around.”

She looked at him and arched an eyebrow, “what else did she tell you?” 

It was his turn to be confused, “nothing really - something I should know?” 

Her expression was unreadable, but she shook her head no and took her shot.

I don’t get her.

“So, why do what you do? Being Pessimistic in your work probably isn’t great.” 

“I can be optimistic - it's just something I have to put a lot of effort into. And the short answer… I want to help people - everyone I can.” 

“Is that all?” 

Her eyebrows pinched together, “you mean to say I must have an ulterior motive to help people who need it?” 

“That’s not what I’m saying at all. All I’m saying is there’s usually a reason people go into your line of work.” 

She rolled the dart around in her fingers for a moment, not responding to his question. “What about you? Charise told me you were in the Marines before becoming a cop, what got you into that? And why didn’t you just stay in?” 

That was a lot to work through- and he now understood why it wasn’t an easy answer for her. Just like his. There were so many reasons why he decided on becoming a police officer. How honest should I get? “Growing up - my pops told me if I wanted to see change I would have to make it.” 

Harper nodded, seeming to digest what he said. “Seems like a smart man. Not according to Charise, but I’ll withhold judgment for now.” 

Hondo laughed at that. “What about you?” 

She sighed, “I don’t have any blood relatives left. I was by myself by the time I hit 16. But I did have someone give me a lecture similar to your pops. I had the means, I had the motive, all I had to do was put in the work and make it happen.” 

He nodded and threw his darts, double fours, bullseye, and a single four. A bust. Hondo grimaced and looked over at her. “That can’t be easy.” 

She gave him a not impressed glance, “oh, and yours is just a walk in the park?” Before hitting the double fours - knocking  her score down to 0 - and winning this round. Smirking at him, she went to pull out the darts, “it’s not easy. But change has to start somewhere, right?” 

Why does it have to be us?

He didn’t speak on what he was thinking. “Good game. Guess I owe you another mule.” 

Harper shook her head, “nah - I’m done for the night. But I’ll take some water.” He nodded and started to make his way to the bar, “Hey Hondo?” 

He looked back at her. “Yea?” 

She rocked back on her heels, thinking through what she wanted to say. Jess does that too - Fuck STOP thinking about her. 

After a moment she spoke, “it’s not easy - it never was going to be. It’s not fun when it feels like you’re the only one fighting the good fight.” 

“What are you trying to say?”

Harper shrugged, “you’re not the only one in the ring. And you’ve got others to lean on if you’d open your eyes to it.” 

He huffed out a breath, “Didn’t peg you to be a therapist.” 

“I’ve got the degree. It comes in handy in my line of work.”

Hondo nodded and walked toward the bar. 

Not what I imagined at all. 

Harper POV

Tan, Chris and Dom got into the tequila shots battle until Tan puked. Chris won.  

Dom was drunk. Not black out, but way more than the good buzz that Harper was feeling. And as it turns out, he’s a spill-all-of-your-inner-thoughts type of drunk. 

Hondo helped Bonnie get Tan to her car - puke bag in hand. Chris skipped merrily towards Hondo’s passenger side door for her ride home. 

Harper and Jim had a very tippy Dom hanging off of their shoulders, walking towards Dom’s truck. He was trying to whisper into her ear (which ended up being his normal voice), things that were making Harper blush. 

“I can’t believe I’m dating you. How did I date you?” 

She chuckled at him, but stopped when he leaned heavily on her again. “Babe- You’ve gotta walk with me. I can’t carry you.” Her feet were already wobbly in her heels and uneven cement, Jim was trying to pull Dom to lean more on him but it wasn’t working.

He gave her a sloppy kiss on her cheek and hummed content. “God you’re so beautiful. Like really pretty, I like more than just your pretty.“ He then giggled and breathed in her ear, “though your ass is my favorite.”

Oh my god, please shut up.  She was purposefully avoiding Jim’s eyes as she opened the door to help Dom into the passenger seat. “Come on- into the seat.”

“You’re going to stay with me right?” He was weakly clutching onto her blazer, his eyes were already fighting to stay open as he rested his head against the seat.

“Yes babe. Jim is going to drive us. Buckle up.” She closed the door and looked over to see Hondo walking to his car, her face was on fire. “Thank you, it was great getting to know you.” 

He just chuckled and started his walk to his car. “Likewise - hope to see you around. I want a rematch at darts.” 

“Harper! We’ll hang out soon right?” Chris was all smiles while hanging out the car window.

She has no idea how the small woman could still be coherent after that much tequila - Harper was honestly impressed. “Yea Chris - Just text me later.” 

Harper moved to the driver's side door to scoot to the middle of the bench. Jim got in as well. “Do you want me to drop you off at home? I’m pretty sure I can get him into the house.” 

“No! She’s staying.” Dom mumbled, wrapping his arm around her shoulders. He then leaned into Harper again, “pretty please? Wanna hold you again.” 

Jim was trying his damndest to hold in his laughter, Harper covered her face with her hands but nodded yes. “Dom - yes I’ll stay.” She needed to keep him quiet or she was going to throw herself out of this truck. “Why don’t you rest a little? I’ll wake you up when we get there?” 

“Hmmmmm. That does sound nice - but I wanna look at you more. I don’t ever get to see you.” He would look more upset, if it wasn’t for the dopey smile on his face and half closed eyes trying to stare at her. 

“Oh my god, shoot me.” Jim whispered to whatever god would listen to him. 

She elbowed him in the side, “I don’t want to hear it James. I saw those eyes you were making at a certain someone at the bar.” 

Dom giggled, “oooooo Street has a cruusshhhh,” he tried to sing-song. 

Jim and her had wide eyes as they looked over at Dom. “Babe - who do you think Street was crushing on?” 

“I mean - obviously the waitress, she was shooting her shot. But my man’s a little lost when it comes to picking up women.” Harper sighed, and shot a relieved look over to Jim. “Oh - or maybe Chris. Street had a huuuuge crush on her when he first joined SWAT. She shot him down - it was soooo funny.” Dom giggled, nuzzling into her side. 

She slapped a hand over her mouth to keep from laughing. Poor Jim looked like he wanted the earth to open up and swallow him. She leaned to him and whispered,”‘no one can tell’ - right?” 

“I don’t need to hear it from you,” he sassed back.

“Two fools - both of you.” 

He nodded and focused on the road, ending the conversation. She felt a thump against her shoulder and looked down to find Dom snoring lightly against her.

After meeting Chris today, she could see why Jim likes her so much. But that could get messy. Jim’s track record was not great, Chris was in a relationship that she seemed to be enjoying… at least from what she told Harper. I’ll have to find out more from her when we hang out. 

Ray Charles could see the looks Jim gives her. Chris was better at hiding it than him, but it was there. Oh boy was it there. 

Jim helped Harper get Dom inside the house and into his bedroom before he told her he would go grab Duke then head to bed. Dom was semi awake and sitting on the edge of the bed looking at the two of them. 

After he left, Harper filled two glasses full of water and brought it back to Dom. “How about I help you put on something more comfortable? Here, take your sweatshirt off.” 

Dom chuckled, his lids were half closed still, teetering on the edge of sleep again. “Hmmmmm, can I undress you?” 

Harper shook her head, smiling at him, “not tonight Dom.” 

“You’re staying right?” He held his arms up for her to pull the sweatshirt over his head. 

“Said I would. ” She bent down to take off his shoes and socks. “Can you take off your pants by yourself?” 

He smiled, “I wanna say something inappropriate.” 

She laughed, “oh really? Can’t imagine why.” 

After she got him to drink a glass of water and settled in the bed, she threw his dirty clothes into his hamper. Say what you will, but Dom could sometimes keep his room clean. Opening up a few of his drawers, she pulled out a henley and some sweats before she started to change. 

A sleepy voice called to her. “I see more tattoos I wanna kiss.” 

She looked back at him, he was turned towards her, the comforter pulled up to his chin staring at her. Harper chuckled lightly, “maybe later, Dom.” She quickly pulled on the clothes she’d sleep in then crawled into bed next to him. He wrapped her up in his arms. 

“I missed sleeping with you.” 

She blushed and looked at his face, “sap.”

“I’m your sap. I know.” 

Harper kissed him lightly. “Go to sleep silly.” 

“You’ll get some sleep too, right? I don’t like you not sleeping.” 

“I’ll sleep babe. Close your eyes.” 

He did for her, that smile was still on his face. She snuggled into his arms, closing her eyes as well. 

“I love you”

Chapter Text

I Know You Know I Love You 

Just like the rain outside
Your body's sweating, dripping wet
And I just can't control myself, no, baby
Be my obsession, my possession
Baby, I got fine selection
This must be your lucky day, baby

- The Wolf by The Spencer Lee Band

The Boys House

Luca POV 

Luca was humming to himself as he mixed together another liquid IV to drink. He felt better than he deserved. But still not 100%. 

He woke up around 6 am, even after going hard with Tan and Chris last night his internal clock would not let him sleep. He snuck out of bed - wanting to let Harper sleep as long as possible. 

Of course, Jim was up, and teased him about the heavy flirting he was attempting to give Harper last night while they dragged his ass to the car. But he couldn’t be bothered - he does that when he’s sober too.

Jim had gone into the garage shortly after, wanting to work on his bike and Luca went back to snuggle with Harper some more. The early morning sun was coming into his room, giving him a good view of her - half her face buried into the pillow with her arms tucked into her chest. Duke had snuck in while Luca was gone and curled around the bend of her knees - already snoring again. That dog loved being with Harper. She spoiled him rotten with treats, toys, kisses, and tummy rubs whenever she was over. 

And as Luca crawled into bed next to her, brushing the curls away from her face, he let his mind drift back to everything that went on last night. The team's overall reaction to her was awesome. Chris had gushed about her in their group chat, genuinely thinking that Luca had finally found someone special. The rest of the team had added in their praise, and it felt good, knowing that the team had the same feelings about her that he did. She just fit. 

Then when he was drunk off his ass she took care of him. The usual treatment would be to toss him on a couch with a trash can by his head. Not that he ever blamed anyone for it - he was a lot to handle drunk, more so than when he was sober.

 He felt cherished with Harper. That’s the word for it . She laughed and blushed and sassed back like she usually did while getting him home. She gave him kisses, helped him into bed, spoke softly to him -  

Wait. 

Oh shit. 

She groaned. moving in his arms. “Baby stay still- trying to sleep.” 

He must have been fidgeting while his mind was scrambling. “Sorry.” Luca whispered. He moved so he was completely pressed against her. Loving when she wrapped an arm around him as well.

Harper squinted an eye open to look at his face. “How are you feeling?” 

“I feel good. Better than I deserve.” He kissed along the crown of her head, taking in the scent of her hair. “Thank you for taking care of me.” 

She smiled softly, tracing a hand down his face, “of course I’m going to take care of you. You take care of me all the time.” 

“It’s easy with you”

“It is with you too,” she wrinkled her nose in thought, “except I can’t carry you- that was difficult.” 

He chuckled, kissing her, “I'm so happy you stayed.” Her hand moved along his jaw and onto the base of his neck, rubbing the muscles there. Luca moaned at the relief he felt. “God you’re too good for me.”

She traced a hand down his chest, “do you want me to get you more water?” He shook his head, leaning into her touch. “What do you remember from last night?” 

Luca closed his eyes and put his forehead against hers, cradling her face with his hand. He had a decision to make. And knew Harper deserved nothing but the full truth. 

“Everything.” 

“Everything?” She sounded uncertain. 

“Yes, everything. I love you too.” 

She went still as she took in what he said, “yeah?” 

Luca knew she needed that reassurance, and was never afraid to give it to her. “Oh yea Harper. I love you.”

Harper kissed him hard, molding herself against him. He groaned into the kiss gripping her tightly.

She was panting by the time they pulled away to breathe. “I love you. I haven’t said that to any man that wasn’t family, Dom.”

He smiled, kissing her again lightly. “I’ve known for a while now - I thought I’d be the first to say it.”

She snickered, “Ya snooze you lose sucker.”

“Oh no no. I think I’m the winner here” he teased, running a hand underneath her shirt. She shivered as his hand grazed up her spine. “This ok?” 

She nodded and moved in to kiss him again. Quickly, he shifted so he was leaning over her, taking control of the kiss this time. His thumb brushed a hard nipple causing her to moan and arch into his hand.

“Fuck, I want to kiss you from head to toe.” 

 Luca tried to pull the shirt over her head but she stopped him. “What about Jim?” 

Fuck. He buried his head against her neck. 

The sexual frustrations of sharing a house. There was no way Street would let him live it down if he had sex within earshot. He was rock hard but knew they couldn’t do anything with him in the house. 

Thinking quickly, he moved off the bed pulling her up with him. “Come on - we’re going to your place.” 

Harper's House

Harper POV 

Harper was breathless by the time they got her front door shut. They had laughed the whole way to her place at them trying to sneak out of the house without Jimmy noticing. Dom was still smiling as he trailed kisses down her neck, pulling her close. 

“Condoms?” He murmured, needing to know what she needed from him before this went any further.

“I’m on birth control, and I’m clean. It’s your call Dom.” 

He shook his head, “I’m clean too - but it’s your decision.” He brushed a curl away from her flushed cheek, “I want you to feel safe with me.” 

She felt her eyes prickle with tears, “Dom,” she sighed pulling him in for another kiss. “I always feel safe with you. I just want you. Please.” Harper reached for the hem of his shirt, tugging it up. “Off.”

He grabbed at the hem and pulled it off. Holey moley this guy. Of course she knew he was well built - she’s felt him up plenty of times before, but seeing it was a different story. He wasn’t all bulging muscles - except for his arms - but he was solid and she loved it. Her hands skimmed up his chest before wrapping around his neck, pulling him down for another kiss. 

Dom grabbed her ass with both hands and hoisted her up causing her to yelp in surprise. Being a bigger girl her whole life meant never having anyone pick you up and carry you around! And he seemed to find joy in proving Harper wrong at every opportunity. He laughed at her as she clung onto him like a koala, moving them slowly towards her bedroom. 

“You’ll get used to me doing this.” 

She laughed, kissing along his jaw, “I seriously doubt that.” 

He flicked the light on as he entered her bedroom, “I wanna see you.” He murmured against her ear, making her shiver. 

Gently, he set her down at the edge of the bed, kneeling in front of her. “tit for tat, Harper.” He said, reaching for the hem of her (well, his) shirt.

Harper laughed again, “this is hardly considered even.” she complained as she lifted her arms to let him pull it over her head. 

She expected him to touch her immediately after the fabric was off. But was instead met with blue eyes staring at her upper chest and she immediately knew why. The scar there was a shade darker than her skin, it didn’t keloid like her others, but it was still visible. He reached for her again, lightly brushing a finger along her collarbone and she willed her body to not flinch away. 

She was worried it ruined the mood, and opened her mouth to say something - she wasn’t sure what she’d tell him. It doesn’t hurt anymore, I barely notice it. But before she could, he leaned down and trailed kisses along the jagged line - sternum to shoulder. 

It was the oddest feeling - having someone pay attention to them. Some days she barely remembered they were there. And having someone kiss them? It was a comfort she didn’t think she would feel from anyone. 

He had wrapped an arm around her to keep her close as he continued to trail kisses down her arms. She gasped when he lifted her hand up and did the same to the scars that lived there, paying special attention to her left. Harper had told him she had nerve damage, and feeling his lips against her forearm sent a muted warmth through her body. 

“I love you so much Harper.” he whispered against her neck. 

Harper wrapped her arms around his shoulders, “I love you too Dom.” 

Pulling his mouth to hers, she kissed him with everything she had. Trying to pour all the emotions she had bottled into him. He kissed her back with the same energy and it left her breathless. 

“Do you trust me?” he breathed against her lips. 

She didn’t need to think of her answer, “yes. Yes, I trust you.” 

Scooting her ass to the edge of the bed he started to trail kisses down her neck, she tipped her head back and pushed her hips towards his, wanting some friction. He kept up his path down her chest, completely bypassing her breasts much to her dismay. She huffed out a breath and pouted at him. Dom gave her a smirk and whispered for her to be patient. 

“I have never been described as patient, Dominique.”

He chuckled, coaxing her to lay back on the bed and pulled off the sweats she was wearing. Dom continued to kiss and suck his way down the curves of her stomach, his hands were busy brushing over her skin, avoiding the areas she desperately wanted him to touch. 

“If there’s something I do that you don’t like you tell me. Ok?” 

Fuck how was he able to still form sentences? “Yes! I will. Please Dom - touch me.” 

This was not how she expected their first time to go - painstakingly slow. But she wasn’t too mad about it. Her whole body felt hot as he spread her legs up and open, telling her to hold them there. Harper whimpered out his name as he kissed along the back of one thigh then moved over to the other, making sure he breathed over her pussy in the process. She was going to lose her mind if he didn’t take care of the ache between her legs soon. Feeling her wetness against her thighs and ass.

When he finally took pity on her and latched his mouth onto her clit, she screamed. Her hands let go of her legs and dug into his hair. He groaned against her pussy and took over holding her legs open as he continued to use his tongue just how she liked. She could feel the pressure slowly building inside her, “don’t stop,” she moaned out. It was starting to get hard to take in air as she got closer and closer, “oh fuck Dom, don’t stop!” Her whole body arched off the bed as her first orgasm wracked through her. 

Her head was spinning as Dom lifted and twisted her hips so she was flat on her stomach. She was trying to form a coherent thought when he gripped her hips again, “move to the middle of the bed. On your knees, Harper. Now.” 

She shuddered and did what she was told. She didn’t look back but could feel Dom crawling onto the bed with her. Stray fingers skimming her leg, her hip, her ass. Once she was where he wanted her, he spread her legs further apart so he could see everything. She felt him part her folds and push two fingers into her. She whimpered out his name still shaking as he started to build her up again. He kept a steady pace as he curled and pushed his fingers in and out, his other hand gripped her hip, having her rock back to meet his hand. 

She groaned as he pushed one more finger inside, she was absolutely soaked and was close to coming again. Dom knew it too, as he stroked her faster. Harper clung onto the sheets, trying to ground herself. She buried her face into the sheets crying out his name.

“Oh no you don’t,” With no preamble, he grasped her by the shoulder and pulled her so her elbows propped her head up. “I need to hear you.” 

“Oh God, YES.”

Her hips falter for a moment, then it’s there. Her orgasm ripped through her in waves, as she coated Dom’s hand in her climax. 

Dom had somehow flipped her onto her back and nestled himself between her legs kissing her deeply. She moaned when he slid his cock against her folds, teasing her clit before nudging her opening. “Can you give me one more baby?” 

Harper might have felt like she was on the edge of oblivion with that last orgasm, but there was no way in hell she was letting this man go. With what strength she had left, she wrapped her legs around his hips, trying to get him to enter her. “Please, please Dom.” 

That was all he needed to hear as he surged into her, holding her tightly, “so fucking good,” he choked out, barely holding on to his sanity. 

“So good” she panted, after his first firm thrust. 

They moved together slowly. Touching, kissing, feeling everything between them. It was overwhelming in the best possible way. When he felt Harper start to rally he picked up the pace, canting his hips against hers. He used one of his hands to tease a nipple and moaned her name as he watched her find her own release. She all but sobbed his name as he finished deep inside her.

After they both caught their breaths, Dom slowly slid from her and moved to lay beside her. Harper cuddled into him, feeling wrung out and sated. Content to just listen to his steady breathing and the feeling of his hand skimming along her spine. 

She felt herself start to nod off when he shifted back, “lets get under the covers, love. The last thing I need are your cold toes on me again.” 

Harper giggled and slowly crawled under the comforter as he went to turn off the light. Then moved to be in his arms again. They stared at each other until one of them started to chuckle that turned into both of them laughing and clinging to each other. She loved that they could have such intense and light moments with each other. 

“Dom - that was - I can’t even begin to describe it.” 

He kissed her soundly on the lips, “Harper, this was everything.”

Chapter Text

Fat bottomed girls 

Your hand fits in mine like it's made just for me

But bear this mind, it was meant to be

And I'm joining up the dots, with the freckles on your cheeks

And it all makes sense to me

Little Things - One Direction 

The Boys House

6 AM 

Luca POV

“Could you two stop kissing? God, we're never going to finish this house.” Chris groaned, catching the two of them making out. 

Again. 

Luca flipped her off while keeping his mouth molded to Harpers. He wouldn’t stop even if the Pope caught them going at it, he couldn’t get enough of her. She had been on her hands and knees painting the trim when he came into the room to see if she ‘needed help’ (and to refill her coffee). The cute little overalls she’s wearing showcased her fantastic ass and it made him think of last weekend when he had her bent over on her couch. And her bed. And her shower. 

What was he supposed to do? Ignore that temptation? Not in this lifetime. 

So that’s how Chris found them, two very obvious handprint marks over her ass and a paint trail dripping down the back of his shirt. Harper smiled sheepishly at Chris, backing away from him, “we’ll get it done.” She looked up at him, giving him that sweet, sweet smile. “Dom - behave.”  

He leaned his forehead against hers, “you love it when I misbehave.” 

That made her blush and push him back, “not now Dom Juan. Go help Jim get his room taped up and washed down so we can start there next.” 

“We’re all done in there.” 

“Then do your room and the kitchen.” 

He pouted but snagged a quick kiss before going to do what she asked. That girl was a workhorse when it came to renovations. They’d have this house done in no time. 

Chris just rolled her eyes at him, “do you actually want help here Harper? Or was that just Luca’s excuse to come out here and ‘help’?” She made an ass-grabbing gesture with both hands that had Harper twisting to see the handprints he had left there and groaned.

“Do you want to help me trim? Or should you stay with the two stooges to make sure they’re actually working?” 

Luca clutched at his chest in fake hurt. “Hey! We do some work on occasion.” Harper raised an eyebrow, not convinced. He huffed out a breath and grumbled as he made his way back to his room. 

Chris POV 

Chris decided that the boys could ‘prove’ themselves to get the other rooms ready for primer without supervision, and started to roll out the paint onto the wall. Harper was on a ladder now getting the top edges and chatting with her about music and family. It was hard not to just share everything with her, even last week when they met, it was an instant friendship. She could see why her and Street got along so well - who didn’t get along with her? 

She couldn't even be mad at Luca for how much he kissed Harper, she would be doing the same thing if the two of them were a thing. With Ty and Kira it was still hard to find the balance with the three of them. They made it sound so simple to find a balance - but as time went on she was finding it was getting harder instead of easier. Then she looked at Harper and Luca - they were literally the sunshine couple. Shit - Luca, who she’s known for years, who is always smiling, seems to be smiling even more ? If that was even possible. 

“Your family sounds like fun Chris. I can’t wait to meet them later!” 

“They’re gonna love you, I have no doubt about it. They’re loud and obnoxious and love to make fun of me.” 

She laughed, “that’s what they’re for. I’m sure you can hold your own with them.” 

Chris rolled her eyes, “you’re no fun.” 

They painted in relative silence for a while before Chris’s curiosity got the better of her. “I like your tattoos - I honestly didn’t expect someone like you to have any.” 

“Someone like me?” there was curiosity in Harper’s eyes, Chris was glad she didn’t take the question as harsh. 

“I just mean - I don’t know, you are in that business side of things - I know tattoos aren’t taboo anymore, but you still don’t see a lot of people who have to wear suits to work everyday with any.” 

She nodded along with Chris’s observation. “I guess you’re right. I don’t know, I always found them fascinating and beautiful, and a way to immortalize something. Things you can always carry with you.” 

Chris studied her arms, frowning. “So - flowers and Medusa?” 

Harper came back down the ladder and stood in front of Chris, “not just flowers, wildflowers.” She extended her arm for her to look at. A black and white cluster made its way from her forearm up to her shoulder. Chris could make out a few that her Tia loved, others she didn’t know. “There are 51. The ages of my mom and sister when they died.” 

Her eyes went to Harpers. Of course, Luca had mentioned it to Chris briefly, it was one of the reasons she was so keen on getting to know her. 

“Do you have any?” 

“Yea,” Chris pulled up at the collar of her shirt to reveal a handwritten ‘I love you’ over her heart in red ink. “My mom’s writing.” 

She felt the moment pass between them. They had both lost their moms as teens. They shared that deep ache that they couldn’t change. 

Harper squeezed her shoulder before continuing on with her explanation. “And Medusa - well,” her right arm went to cup the back of her upper left, where the tattoo was, “she was a bit indulgent. I like her Femme Fatale rebranding.” 

Chris smiled, “beautiful and dangerous. My favorite kind of woman.” 

“Please tell me you’re not flirting with Harper right now.” Street had popped his head into the room, water in hand, “Luca likes you Chris, but he is scary protective of his girl.” 

“Oh quit your whining. You’re just jealous she’s not ogling you.” Harper snarked back, but there was no heat to her words. She wrapped an arm around Chris, pulling her close.

Street hid his blush well, but Chris could tell it was there. She smiled but felt a small pang in her chest. She loved having him as a friend and cared for him deeply. That would never change. But they were both too much of a mess to even consider what was between them. Besides, she was in a relationship and he was a teammate. Both huge no-no’s in her book.

“Let’s get to painting. I have a good feeling we’ll finish priming the walls in time to order out for lunch.” 

Luca POV 10:30 AM

They were all working in his bedroom now, listening to Street’s latest dating disaster. The poor guy almost got his ass beat by the girl's apparent husband. He had the shittiest luck recently, and Chris and Harper were already badgering him for his phone to go through his dating profiles again. 

Street had looked to Luca for help, but he knew better than to get in between the two girls. “You’re better off just giving them your Street, they’ll probably be helpful. What do you have to lose?” 

Harper laughed, “his life apparently,” as she grabbed for Street’s arm so Chris could dig the phone out of his pants pocket. 

That made him yelp and try to back away from the two pests. “Careful with the merchandise!” 

They both let go when Chris had his phone in her hands and sat beside Harper on Luca’s bed, scrolling through the profile. Harper gave Street an unimpressed look, Luca sat down on the other side of her, leaning in to see what they were looking at.

“Jesus Christ, dude.” Luca had no sympathy for this kid. There was only one picture where he actually had a shirt on and that was the only one where he wasn’t giving his ‘fuck boy’ smile. 

“What?” 

“Your profile is awful,” Harper was blunt as ever. Swiping through pictures and wrinkling her nose at the captions. 

Chris shot Street a dirty look, “what happened to the profile I made you a while back?” 

Street shrugged, “I had deleted my apps for a while - nothing was saved when I went to log back in to them.” She groaned at his poor excuse. 

They took a little break, scrolling through his photos to choose new ones. That was a mistake, Harper threatened to put bleach in her eyes if there were any more ‘thirst traps’ that were stored in his phone. After the profile revamp and a lot of teasing, Street swiped his phone back, “alright. Let’s try and get this room done. You guys are awful.” 

“Awfully helpful!” Harper smiled at her little joke looking over at Luca, “right babe?” 

“Of course you’re right baby,” he quickly responded and groaned as he got up onto his feet. He pulled Harper up and kissed her quickly, before she moved over to the corner she was working on. 

12 PM

Luca POV 

Dom had his hands around Harper, holding her from behind. God he couldn’t wait to get her alone later. He leaned down and kissed along the nape of her neck, which he knew drove her crazy. “I love you so much.” 

She giggled and leaned against him tilting her head back to rest on his shoulder. Those golden eyes he loved so much staring up at him. “I love you too, you sap.” 

“You better believe it. Are you staying tonight?” 

“Like you’d let me leave.” 

He squeezed her waist “better believe it,” lightly nipping at her neck again, “think you can be quiet for me tonight?” she let out a breathless moan as Luca kissed his way to the nape of her neck

“I’m going to puke. You two need to stop.” Street groaned coming back into the kitchen to fill up another plateful of Chinese food. 

He wouldn’t apologize. He had waited a long time for this and he wouldn’t hold back how much he loved her. After their weekend they spent wrapped in Harper’s bedsheets, it was hard for him to leave Sunday night even if he did get to briefly see her again the next morning. But, the weekend did give him some inspiration for her birthday gift, which was worth its weight in gold.

He was thinking of asking her to sneak off to his room while Chris and Street were distracted when three phones started to beep, “nonono, fuck.” 

Chris sighed coming into the kitchen, “40 David needs back up.” 

Harper quickly stood up, “you three go. Be safe. I’ll finish here and hang out with Duke.” 

“Sorry Harp.” Street looked a little bummed that they’d be missing the rally. They all ran to different rooms to quickly change out of their paint clothes. 

Dom was the first to be done and kissed her hard. When he pulled back she was panting, “I love you. be safe please. I’ll see you when you’re back.” 

“I love you too honey.” He said before rushing to their vehicle. 

“Shit, do we get kisses too?” Chris smirked as she tugged on her tennis shoes, Jim not far behind. 

Harper rolled her eyes but hugged the two of them before they rushed out the door as well. 

Harper POV 2 PM

Dom 💙: It looks like it’s going to be a while yet. Please tell me you’re not still painting. 

Harper chuckled as she pushed back some curls that had come free from her bandana. 

Harper: Then I won’t tell you that I’m still painting 😀

Dom💙: 😠 !!!

Harper: Be safe, I love you ❤️

Dom💙: I love you too. But be a good girl, just wait until we’re back. We’ll finish it together.

Harper: I’ve told you before I love to paint. I’m just jamming to some music with Duke. If I want to stop, I’ll stop. 

Harper:  Plus you love it when I misbehave 💋💋💋💋

Dom💙: I’m going to get you for that one, you better be ready when I get back. 

Harper: I’ll be waiting 😘

She tossed her phone to the couch and continued to paint the living room walls the gray/blue they decided to go with. Harper had on one of Maggie’s Spotify playlists playing through the TV as she worked. 

~~~~~~~~ 5 PM

“S o it's hard to find

Someone with that kind of intensity

You touched my hand, I played it cool

And you reached out your hand to me

But if our paths never cross

Well, no, I'm not sorr - “ 

A knock at the door broke through Harper’s singing. Duke let out a low woof then was up and waiting by the door, tail wagging. 

“Who do you think it is, Duke?” Harper wondered allowed, as she put the paint brush on top of the canister and rubbed her hands on her pants. There was another knock on the door as Harper opened it to reveal an older woman with a set of familiar blue eyes.

The woman in question was positively beaming at seeing her, and before she could react, had Harper in a bear hug. “oh you must be Harper! It’s so good to finally meet you.” 

For a small woman, she hugged with her whole body, and Harper could tell that it’s where Dom learned it. She quickly returned the embrace, praying she didn’t get paint on her, “I’m glad we were finally able to meet, I’m sorry, but Dom and Jim are out on a call.” 

Rosilin just winked and let herself into her son's house, having a good look around before rolling up her sleeves and staring at Harper, “golly, we’ve got a ways to go. How ‘bout I give you a hand? That way the two of us can work and chat.” 

Harper slowly nodded and shut the door again. “...ok - yea. What music do you want to listen to?” 

Luca Pov

9 PM

Luca pulled his car up to the house, him and Street were exhausted. While the call didn’t last too long, the interviews and off boarding process always took forever. He needed a shower, and Harper. Or Harper in the shower. That was always fun. He smirked to himself as he turned off the ignition. 

When he got out of the truck and turned to shut the door he looked across the street something was off. “Oh my god.” 

“What?” 

“That’s my mom’s car. Oh fuck that’s Mom’s car!” He pivoted and sprinted to the front door, Street on his heels. 

He was fumbling with his keys trying to get the door open when Jim stilled his hand. “Is it really that big of a deal she’s here? Wouldn’t Harper have texted or whatever if things weren't going good?”

He thought about that for a minute then heard giggles come from inside, he looked Jim in the eyes, “or they became best friends.” 

Luca swung the door open to find his mom and girlfriend on the couch hysterically laughing at whatever show they were watching on the TV. They didn’t turn around until Jim shut the door - alerting the two. 

When Harper’s eyes landed on him, she beamed and kneeled on the cushions so she was facing him more. “Dommy! You’re home!” She giggled holding her arms out for him to give her a hug.  

Of course his mom told her about that god awful nickname. 

“My baby! Dommy it’s so good to see you. And Jimmy, you look so good as always.” 

Moving over to her he quickly hugged and kissed Harper’s forehead before hugging his mom. “I didn’t know you were planning on coming over. We got called in.” He glanced at the coffee table and noticed three empty bottles of Sunstruck wine - his mom’s favorite. “You guys have fun?” 

Harper giggled again, her face was flushed and she had a silly grin on her face. oh my god my mom got her drunk. 

“She came over a little after you guys left. We finished painting! Do you wanna see?” She made to stand up but wobbly fell back onto the couch which caused her and mom to break out in another round of laughter. 

“Harper and I have been watching these funny videos - what did you call them sweetie?” 

“Vine compliments - Compilamentations - Compilations!” Harper finally got out. 

That sent them into a fit. Luca looked over at Jim - who still had a hand on the door knob like he was going to make a run for it. His eyes narrowed as if daring Street to try it. 

He sighed and muttered that he would be in the kitchen. His mom turned toward him. 

“Jimmy! Jimmy dear there’s leftovers in the fridge! I brought a casserole over for you guys, I know how hard you all have been working.” 

“Thanks Mrs. Luca.” 

“Now James you know to call me Rosilin. Or Rosie. None of that Mrs. Luca crap - that was my mother in law and she was a capital B - I - T - C - H.” 

Luca’s jaw was on the floor. He knew about how much Nana Luca hated his mom for marrying dad but his mom only ever talked smack when she was drunk. Which meant he had two drunk women on his hands. 

Luca watched as the two women started another conversation about a book they had both read. He made a quick march into the kitchen to find Street eating straight out of the casserole dish. Jim wordlessly handed Luca a fork to eat as well. 

“They’re both toasted aren’t they?” Jim whispered, listening to the two women giggling in the living room. 

He nodded and quickly put a call into his dad to come and get his wife. 

Carl just sighed on the phone, “I should’ve called and warned you. She was dead set on coming over today.” 

“Her and Harper got along great. Maybe a little too good. They’re both drunk off of wine and sitting on my couch.” 

His dad laughed at him and said he’d be there in a half hour.

He filled two glasses full of water to give to his mom and girlfriend and listened to them softly talk to each other, like they’ve been friends for years. 

His mom wrapped her arms around Harper pulling her close, “you’re such a sweetheart - isn’t she beautiful Dommy?” 

“She is mom. I’m a lucky guy.” causing Harper to blush and reach for him. He quickly moved to the couch and pulled her into his arms. 

Rosie pointed a finger at him, her face suddenly serious, “it isn’t just luck Dominique! You need to work to keep her happy.” She moved a finger to Harper next, “same goes for you young lady.”

Harper was laughing against his shoulder while he was getting an earful about the ‘important life lessons of how to make a relationship work’. She could've given a ted talk at this point. Street had come out with two more glasses of water for the girls (after Luca had sent him a frantic text for help), where he was promptly pulled in to get a lecture about his ‘tragedy of a love life’. 

“Don’t be too harsh on him mom - he’s going to start doing better. Right Jimmy? ” 

“We’re helping him out Rosie, don’t you worry.” Harper smiled, reaching up to kiss Luca’s cheek. 

A little while later, Luca was walking his mom out to his Dad's car. After a tearful goodbye between the girls, with promises of having brunch tomorrow and a ‘girls day’ after her birthday, he basically had to drag her out of the house. He was happy that the two of them got along so well, but he worried what Harper would think in the morning when she sobered up. He knew she didn’t like drinking heavily, and was worried that his mom being there might have pushed her a bit. 

Pops always told him he got all the ‘best parts’ of mom. Their eyes, smile, and personality were the same, but that was where most of the resemblance stopped. Looking down at his mom now, she was older, almost 70 now, but still living life to the fullest, and dragging others in on her fun along the way. 

“You going to be ok mom?” 

“I’m going to be fine - I don’t understand what you’re fussing about.” 

“Can’t a son look out for his mama?” 

She patted his arm and leaned her head against his shoulder. “She’s so good for you. And you’re just as good for her.” 

He chuckled as he helped her out to the sidewalk. “I know mom. I love her so much.” 

“Oh she loves you too baby. You’ll give me a bunch of grandbabies - you two will have such beautiful children. So help me you better keep her happy and safe.” 

He looked at his dad for help but only got a useless shrug. Thanks Dad. 

“Ma - slow down. There’s a few steps to take before we tackle parenthood.” 

His mother just laughed. “Oh I know. But she’s the one - I can feel it. ” 

Luca just shook his head in wonder as he watched his parents drive away. They would be back in the morning for brunch (and to pick up mom’s car). But now he had to take care of his girl. 

When he came back inside Harper was snuggled up with Duke on the couch. He knew she was truly tired when she didn’t put up a fight when he lifted her up and carried her to his room. She sighed into his shoulder, “I never thought I would have this.”

“Have what?” 

“Someone to love me like you do.” She snuggled into his chest more breathing deeply, 

He kissed her head as he set her down on the bed, “and now you’re stuck with me.” 

She giggled watching him as he went to grab clothes for the both of them out of his closet. 

“I love your mom.” 

He smiled, “I love her too. And she loves you by the sounds of it.” 

Harper giggled at that, “I hope so. I was nervous to meet her.” 

“I’m sorry I wasn’t there for you - but you seemed to handle it like a champ.” He unhooked her overalls and helped her stand up to take them off.

She smiled at him, “yea? I’m glad.” Harper was able to take the rest of her other clothes off with little problem, getting her dressed for bed was proving to be difficult. “She said she was ready for more grandbabies.” 

He groaned, kissing her head, “and what did you say to that?” 

“That we were just practicing for now. She thought that was the funniest thing ever.” 

“Got that right we are.” He sat her down on the bed and wrangled her into a pair of shorts and a muscle shirt, with a few kisses in between. “How about you take a nap, I’ll even take one with you.” 

With as little grace as you’d expect from a drunk individual, Harper got under the covers and snuggled into Luca’s side, humming in contentment. “I love you so much. Dommy.” 

He huffed out a breath, turning to face her, “you better not get used to calling me that.” 

Harper chuckled, keeping her eyes closed, “I think it’s cute. But I’ll save the embarrassing nicknames for your mom.” 

Luca rolled his eyes before leaning down to kiss her again, “I love you too.”

Chapter Text

Slow down (feat lucky daye) VanJess

Know this might be a mess but yes

'Cause, for me, you're the best

I don't want nothing less

Can't lie, I must confess

For me, you are the best

Know this might be a mess (yeah) 

- A Mess (Feat. Lucky Daye) - Ella Mae

SWAT HQ 

Luca 

Luca emptied another clip into the practice targets down range, off on the last one by a centimeter. He huffed out a frustrated breath before reloading. Work had been busy, they had handled a domestic assault threat that had ended better than it could have, but it was wearing on everyone's minds. So they broke off to work on individual tasks, perfecting imperfections, and processing what had happened in their own ways. 

Hondo seemed… off. Not that he had any room to compare or complain. He was feeling it too. Luca didn’t believe in the ‘planet alignments’ and shit like Chris and Tan do, but something was seriously off. They needed to blow off some steam, have a family reset. 

And he had the perfect plan for it. 

The house was finally done, painting had been the last big project they had to tackle. All that was left was upgrading their rickety fold out table for an actual dining set. God he never realized how expensive furniture and all that crap was until he bought a house. 

But he was already thinking of the next steps, plans for the next thing. Because as much of a pain in the ass it was, he loved being able to make something out of nothing. If anything else, it was a fun side hobby he would like to do. He shook his head in thought, home improvements were never something he had pictured himself enjoying, even for as much he liked to tinker with cars and other things. 

After proposing a hangout at the Boys House, and subsequently getting shot down with various excuses, he was left more frustrated than he had a right to be. And he knew it wasn’t just about the hang out, and it wasn’t just about the current suspects they were trying to take down, but they just added fuel to the fire. 

Now Jim was even saying he couldn’t hang out tonight. Luca ground his teeth and kept his gaze focused on the screen, Street didn’t deserve his frustration, so he’d keep it inside. 

“I’m sorry man, if we get out at a decent time, why don’t you see if Harp is free to hang out?” 

What Street proposed wasn’t a bad idea. A better word would be impossible. 

They hadn't seen each other for almost two weeks, Harper was doing what she and Devin referred to as "an early hell week”. Where she meets with potential donors all day every day. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and evening events. She even slept at her office the last few days instead of making the drive home, hoping to spend less time commuting. 

They still called each other every night, but even he could tell over the phone she was starting to unravel by day eight. Trying to keep her in good spirits while struggling himself wasn’t something he was used to. But he did what he could. Sent her flowers, pictures of Duke, told her the dumb stuff that Street did at any given time. 

And she would do things too. Pay for his coffee at Maggie’s, send him funny videos and “slang updates” she learned from the kids. His favorite thing would be her rating her food each day like a critic- even telling him a few places she wouldn’t mind going to with him. 

“As long as I don’t have to talk, that’s the deal.” She said one night over the phone. Her throat was sore from all the talking she had been doing. 

He laughed at that comment, “whatever you want, Harper.” 

He scrubbed his face with his hands, clearing his head. “She probably won’t be able to make it. I mean, I’ll text her, if we get off early enough, but she’s been busy. It’s not a big deal.” he let out a huff of breath, focusing on the screen in front of him again. 

“It obviously is Luca. Talk to me, what’s up?” 

SWAT Locker Rooms

Street 

One thing to understand about Street is that even after coming back onto SWAT, the whole ‘SWAT family’ was still weird. For so long he didn’t have this. Of course, Buck would check in with him occasionally, but a majority of the time, it was just him. He would like to think he understood it, he loved the friendships he formed with Luca and Tan, the annoying older brother vibes he would get from Hondo and Deacon, and Chris… well. 

After Luca, in starts and pauses, got out what was on his mind, it started to make sense to him. Luca grew up with this. He grew up with his family. Both parents, a brother, his father and grandfather’s ‘blue’ family. Had people he could laugh and celebrate the good days with, as well as people to sit and work through the bad days. Street already knew Luca didn’t like being alone, it was a big reason he and the others banded together to get him Duke. But a dog could only make up for so much company. 

He felt bad for making it seem like not that big of a deal that no one could hang out, wanting more than anything to take it back now. He was thinking of a fun way he could try and make it up to him in the coming days. They had the weekend off - if this maniac was caught in a timely manner. 

Pieces were coming together, and with some downtime, he decided to put his half-cocked idea into action, enlisting the help of someone he knew would go along with it if it meant getting a smile from Luca. 

Harper’s House 

Harper

Harper busied herself at home, hanging out with Ernie. God I missed him too. While he wasn’t much of a snuggler, he would humor her every once in a while, allowing himself to be carried around like a baby. She started the absolute massive amount of laundry she had accumulated over the past few weeks, sent her evening dresses to the dry cleaners, took a long ass shower and then completely crashed on the couch. 

She pulled a blanket off the back of the couch to cover her legs. Even wearing leggings and a hoodie she had ‘borrowed’ from Dom, she would find herself cold if she was sitting for too long. 

Her thumb hovered over Dom’s name in her contacts, but knew he was working today and decided against bugging him. She leaned towards her coffee table and nudged her book closer to the edge until she could grasp it. 

The Shadow of the Wind - She’d finish it in a day or two. Settling into the couch, Ernie in his spot on the window sill, and the soft sounds of the washer in the background, that’s how she spent the next few hours. 

Work was work, as it was the end of a lot of companies' fiscal years, it was prime time to get on people’s radar for their next cycle. Donors would always be her main focus, and she really had no problem with asking people to believe in the work her team was doing. Hell weeks though? Not her favorite. Harper loved to talk to people, loved building those relationships - but even she was feeling burnt out. This morning Devin had ordered her to go home after catching her still asleep on her office couch. 

“There’s nothing that can’t wait until Monday Harper. You have no meetings today, emails are sorted, get out of here.” The older woman smiled lovingly at Harper, all but dragging her up and towards the elevator. 

A few hours passed when her phone rattled on the coffee table, reaching over with her eyebrows arched as she read the text that came through. 

James (Luca’s Boy): IK uve been busy - but u up for a little mischief? 

Street

He was scanning through documents when his phone pinged, signaling a text coming through. Looking at it quickly he smiled at what it said.

Harper (Luca’s girl): Operation P is a-go 

Street: sweet. Lmk how much we owe u 

Street: will let u know when we leave 

Harper (Luca’s girl): grabbing goods now- Uncle Sarzo and I are going to break and enter. 

Street: I gave u keys?

Harper (Luca’s girl): Where's the fun in that?

Street: 😀📱 hello? 911? 

Harper (Luca’s girl): 🏃🏽🏃🏽 do that and I’ll take the dog 🐶 good luck explaining that to Dom. 

Street: 🙄 see ya later Harp ✌🏻 please don’t Dognap Duke 

Harper (Luca’s girl): no promises 😁 

The Boys House 

Harper

Harper supplied the goods: beer, snacks, pizza, and got everything set up for their fun night in. She even played a few rounds of pinball to make sure it worked fine!

It came as a complete surprise that Street had even thought to reach out to her for help. They texted occasionally, usually funny videos or memes. The request was weird, but very perfect for Dom. All it took to convince her was a brief phone call and she was out the door and heading to the dive bar Charlie’s to try to convince them to sell this random chick their pinball machine. 

Another bonus to this whole operation was her finally getting to meet some of Chris’s family. She absolutely loved her cousin Tomas. And uncle Sarzo didn’t even seem phased by the weird request from his niece. 

“This is one of her more tame requests. Trust me.” He huffed, pushing the machine against the front wall. 

She was dying to know details but they had to leave, he promised to share the next time, and she would hold him to that. 

She did some light cleaning around their house but it was honestly not that bad. Harper knew Jim liked a clean house, and was sure to keep Dom in line when it came to picking up after himself. 

Harper had packed an overnight bag, figuring she’d spend the night after their little hangout. Even being a little bold in packing a racier pajama set that she was sure Dom would enjoy. Her usual sleep attire revolves around a baggy shirt and booty shorts, which he loved. But she wanted to show him that she could be sexy too. It was still weird to her, how much she actually missed him. It was nice- of course it was, but it was still weird. 

Downtown LA

Street 

“So Luca, your place?” Tan said with a smirk. 

His eyes lit up, “wait… Seriously? But what about crossfit? And date night?” 

Chris smiled, “date night ended hours ago ,” 

“We just ran up 100 stairs, I don’t need another workout,” Tan added. 

“Deacon? Are you in?” 

He shook his head, “not tonight, I think I’m going to go home and see my family,” 

Luca nodded in understanding, then turned his head to the others. “Alright, four is a party. Let’s get going.” 

Chris clapped Luca on the shoulder, “and there’s one more surprise waiting at the house, Harper helped.”

Luca’s face went soft at the mention of her, “yea? Is she there?” 

Street smiled, “last I checked yea, got us beer and food too.” he just pushed Luca towards black Betty, “come on, we’ll show you at home.” 

And didn’t it feel great to call it that. 

The ride home was loud, as it usually was. Between the stereo blasting and the endless conversations, there weren’t many instances of quiet when they had days like today, ending on the high of a job well done, and the knowledge of there being food and good times ahead at home, who could complain? 

Chris had texted Harper that they were on their way, so when they pulled onto their block, she was out on the front porch with Duke beside her. He watched the immediate smile that enveloped Luca's face when he caught sight of her. She laughed as he scooped her up, spinning her around twice before planting a kiss on her lips. 

Street had to look away, they were too much most of the time. His eyes naturally drifted over to Chris before looking away, a pair of brown eyes already on him. Swallowing hard he put on a smile and waited for the two to be done. 

Harper's laugh was infectious, and helped bring Street back to the present. “I’m excited to see your reaction to your housewarming present,” she teased. 

Luca rolled his eyes, “you seriously didn’t-“ 

“It wasn’t just me, I had some co-conspirators,” she smiled looking behind Luca at Tan, Chris, and himself. After he raised his eyebrows in surprise she tugged him towards the front door. “Come on love, time to celebrate.

Street went in first, followed closely by Luca and the rest, his laugh and wide eyes were worth it. 

Luca touched the machine reverently, eyes blown wide in surprise “this- this is so sick! It looks just like the one from Charlie’s!” 

Tan laughed and clapped him on the back, “no Luca- this is the one from Charlie’s.” 

He let out a giddy laugh that had the others smiling, soaking in his delight for their gift. Street pulled out a roll of quarters and handed it over to Luca. “You want to show us how this bad boy works?” 

Luca nodded, breaking open the pack and putting in the money, a look of determination on his face. 

“Ten bucks Harper can beat you-“ Tan started to add.

“Don’t pin us against each other! Now she’s really gonna go in on this.” Luca shoved at him, even as Harper started to razz and laugh at all of it. 

She made her way around to the others, offering a hug and a nudge towards the kitchen, “there’s beer in the fridge and food on the kitchen island. Chris, do you think you could put some good tunes on for us?” 

Chris smiled, “of course I can,” and walked towards the stereo system to plug in her phone before walking into the kitchen to start in on the food. Celia Cruz filled the room along with the sounds of the pin ball bouncing off the bumpers. Street watched as Chris moved into the next room, and he naturally found himself following her. 

Chris

The girls were attempting to catch up with each other's lives, having become quick friends after their first hangout session without the boys around. The rest of the crew took up various spots in the front room/pinball machine to try and beat each other’s scores.

Chris was curious about Harper's “hell week” as the two of them took up a spot by the kitchen island (closest to the charcuterie board Harper had made up). She was finding it hard to believe anyone could be mad at Harper for ‘stealing’ donors. 

Harper just shrugged at her stunned expression. “You’d be surprised. I’ve pissed off my fair share of people over the years. This is the first time it’s happened from seeking donations though- it was new to me.” 

“Well, now you’ve got Luca and the rest of us watching your back - I’d love to see someone try and mess with you.” Chris cracked her knuckles and shadow boxed around her. Harper laughed at her, shoving a cube of cheese into Chris’s mouth.

“That will not be necessary,” She reasoned, moving back so Jim could move around them, reaching into the fridge for another beer. “It doesn’t happen that often. I mean - people get angry all the time, but I like the ‘negotiation’ approach compared to throwing’ hands - ya know?”

Street nodded, joining in. “You could hold your own from what I’ve heard. Luca said you’ve got some mad skills on the mats. You could take some bad guys on.” 

Harper rolled her eyes, “I’ll save that for the pros. It just never hurts to be prepared.” She winked at Chris, her eyes holding a mischief that she knew would be directed at Street, “and if that means I get to be manhandled by Dom every now and then for “practice” I’m a happy gal.” 

Street groaned, the arm he had dropped over Harper's shoulders pulled back like he’d been burned. “You were doing so well,” 

She laughed, poking his side “I live for your general discomfort.” 

Chris laughed at his disgusted face and high fived Harper’s waiting hand. Between the two of them, Harper was the annoying sibling that Street could never escape - the more he tried the more persistent she got. It was hilarious to watch. 

Street tried swatting her hands away, putting his hands up to defend himself, “God you’re awful,” he sidestepped her next light jab to his stomach and flicked her on the forehead. “Keep your hands up, your teacher hasn’t been doing too good of a job if you don’t know that.” 

Harper adjusted and tried striking again, “want me to tell you everything he’s been teaching me?” She wiggled her eyebrows at Street which immediately had him dropping his arms in exasperation - giving her the perfect opportunity to lightly tap his cheeks with her fist giggling all the while. 

“I’ll tell Luca you’re being mean to me again,” Street whined, he snatched her wrists to keep her from his face. 

Chris immediately noticed Harper tense up, “ow ow ow Jim -” 

He quickly let go, eyes going wide, “Shit - are you alright?” 

Harper took in a deep breath rubbing out her wrist, “I’m ok - the nerve there likes to work sometimes. Caught me by surprise ‘s all.” She looked up at him tapping his shoulder, “I’m alright, you didn’t know.” 

Chris saw him relax a bit, smiling lightly, “what happened there anyways?” He gestured vaguely to her arm, they’ve both seen plenty of times, but never asked. 

She chuckled while picking up her drink again, “that was one fight I definitely didn’t win.” 

Noise from the front room broke their conversation, Tan and Luca round the corner into the kitchen. 

“Baaaaby,” Luca started, smiling when his eyes landed on her, “it’s your turn to play pinball. I have the high score.” 

Harper smiled back at him, “for now at least.” 

Tan laughed, chanting for Harper to ‘avenge him’ as they made their way back out to the living room. 

Luca

He was pressed up right behind her. Chin tucked onto her shoulder as she shot the pinball back and forth in the machine.

“How are you so good at games like this?” 

“Me and Molly spent a lot of time at arcades, and playing games. And when- the incident happened. I was laid up in the hospital for a few months. Games kind of got me out of bed. Most days at least.” 

He hummed and squeezed her waist, she was opening up more. Baby steps at least. 

Another bell rang on the machine, the red and blue flashing lights mocking him now and she moved up up up. He lightly started kissing at her neck to try and distract her from the game. She was getting dangerously close to his score and he couldn’t have that in his house. 

She let out a breathy moan, “oh and who’s cheating now?” 

Luca chuckled, “maybe I want you to pay attention to me instead of the game. I’ve missed you ya know.” 

Harper pushed her hips back into his cause him to suck in a sharp breath. “Sap. And I’ll pay attention to you after I beat your score.” 

“We might have to leave so you can really pay attention to me.” 

She giggled and let the ball drop past the bumpers. She beat his high score by two points. That jerk. 

Luca spun her around and kissed her hard, backing her up against the front of the machine. He bit back the moan threatening to come out when her hands wound around his neck and made his way into his hair. 

Slowly they broke apart, “God I’m so glad you’re here.” He breathed out, kissing the top of her head. 

“I missed you so much. I’m so sor-“

“No. Don’t you dare,” he moved back down and kissed her again, “don’t apologize. You warned me. Told me how busy it could get. Just like I warned you.” 

She leaned into his touch, “it still sucked not being able to see you.” 

He hummed in agreement, not really knowing what to say. He agreed obviously. 

Smiling, she rubbed her hand along his cheek. 

Luca groaned, “I know- I’ll shave it later.” his face had a good amount of scruff on it, the last few days of work left him with little desire to do more than shower and brush his teeth. 

“I kinda like it,” he wrinkled his nose at her comment, she kissed him lightly and moved so she could whisper into his ear, “I do- makes me wonder what it feels like. Everywhere.” 

Dom chuckled, leaning down to kiss her again. Letting his hands wander a little. They were the only ones by the front door at the moment, so he didn’t feel too bad for copping a feel while no one was looking.

She gasped lightly when one of his hands made its way up her shirt, allowing his tongue to explore more of her mouth. He was two seconds away from telling everyone to get out when there was a knock at the door. He let Harper quickly fix her shirt before he opened the door, Tan and Chis popping their head in from the dining area, Street close behind them. 

“Hondo? Hey man it’s good to see you,” Luca tried his best to keep the surprise from his voice as he let his captain come into the house. 

He looked tired, the lines around his eyes more pronounced. Him and Luca were good pals, but it didn’t always translate to afterwork fun, especially now as the 20 David Captain. 

Harper had made her way into the other room, despite Luca trying to grab for her hand to keep her close. After Hondo started to apologize, his shoulders relaxed, it takes a lot to admit misplaced anger. It didn't mean the initial wrongdoings hurt less, but this was a start. There was a lot to work through, everyone gets it. 

Luca invited him to stay for food and drinks, wanting him to be included in this as much as the others. “Nah nah nah - you guys hang, the place is looking right Luca. I’m happy for you.” The smile didn’t reach his eyes. 

“Hondo - have you eaten yet?” Harper made her way around the corner, clearly having heard everything but ignoring the disappearing tension in the room. Plate of pizza and snacks in hand. 

Luca turned back to watch Hondo, he looked conflicted now. “I was going to gra-” 

“Plate ‘s already made Hondo, stay a spell.” with that she placed the plate on the dining table, avoiding the card game that was happening, and turned back into the kitchen.

Chris chuckled, smiling at the Captain, “looks like you're stuck with us now.” 

Hondo sighed smiling lightly, a real smile this time. Moving further into the house. Luca clapped a hand on his shoulder leading him over to the table. 

Tan

“She totally just pulled off the Abuela move.” Chris murmured, crossing her legs on the couch as Street loaded Mario Kart. 

“The what?” Street frowned as he watched Tan move to sit in the middle of the couch, closest to Chris. 

He was going to pretend not to notice and laughed at what Chris said, “My mom does it too, if you want to get the kids to stay for more than a few minutes, you have a plate of food already made so they can’t say no.” 

“Works every time with me,” Chris smiled, nudging his arm. 

Street rolled his eyes, taking the seat on the other side of the couch “You could never turn down food. Your stomach is a bottomless pit, Chirs.” 

He looked over into the kitchen, Luca, Harper, and Hondo were talking and playing cards by the looks of it. “What do you think they’re talking about?” 

“She’s probably getting his whole life story in there, she weaseled mine out of me the second time we hung out. She’d be a scary therapist to have.” Chris shared, picking Yoshi before Street could get him. He picked King Boo. 

Street leaned over, “ ‘cause she’d actually be worth the money?” 

“Exactly!” Chris laughed while picking the Flower Cup tracks for them to race. 

Harper

“Damn… I’m glad I didn’t have the news on today.” She was rubbing her fingers through his hair, scratching his scalp that had him melting against her. “I would have been so worried about all of you.” 

He hummed, holding her tight, “we took care of business. That’s all there is to it. It’s the best outcome we could have hoped for anyways.” 

They were silent for a good while. It was past two in the morning, just the two of them watching reruns of some soap opera. Chris, Hondo, and Tan had gone home, Jim was probably fast asleep by now. He was laying on her, soaking up all the physical contact he could. 

“I don’t ever want to have to go that long without seeing you again. I was about to steal you away sooner or later.” 

She laughed, believing him. “I fully support you stealing me anytime you want.” He hummed against her chest but didn’t speak. Sensing she had more she wanted to say. “You could… you could come with me? If you’d want to.” He moved back to look into her eyes, not fully understanding what she meant. His expression must have been enough cause she continued, “to the events, the socials… if you want to. They can be a bit stuffy at times.” 

“Wanna see me in a monkey suit?” 

Harper smirked, “we’ll, I love you in your birthday suit. So I’m sure it would be just as sexy. I’ve seen the beige one you have hidden in the back of your closet.” 

“Snooping through my clothes?” 

“Oh can it- I was looking for a hoodie then got distracted, then I started snooping.” 

Dom laughed, squeezing her waist, thinking it through. It would mean he’d get to see her dressed to the nines. He’s seen some photos of her in fancy dresses, she’s honestly gorgeous in anything. He’d get to see her in action, doing her thing, which would be fun. He had his doubts. 

“I don’t know if I could stand being in a room with a bunch of richie rich folks.” 

“They’re not all that bad. I know I usually complain to you about the bad ones- but there’s waaayy more of the good. They’re a blast to be around.” She kissed along his forehead, “a night away in a hotel, good food - usually anyways.” He chuckled at that, “it could be fun.” 

“When’s the next one?” 

“The Helpers Gala is at the beginning of November. Everything else I’ve already RSVP’d to- but I know the girl in charge. I might be able to get you in.” she teased, wigging underneath him.

He laughed, then suddenly got up, and went to the other room. She scrunched her brows together, missing his weight already. She sat up when she heard him rummaging around the front door. “Where are you going?” 

Dom turned back towards her, keys in hand, “I um, I have something for you.” He twisted the curved metal until a keyset came loose. She was beyond confused as he came back to the couch, she moved her legs to the side so he could sit back down next to her. “… so, here.” Harper watched as he held out his hand palm up. Showing her the plain silver key with a red surfboard charm attached to it. 

She picked it up and looked at him unsure. 

“I’m not asking you to give me one for your house I just-“ He pulled her legs back to him so she was across his lap now. “I absolutely loved you being here when I go home, I want you to be able to steal my hoodies whenever you want, or walk Duke if you’re bored and I’m not home,” 

She wrapped her arms tightly around him. Pulling him down and kissing him hard. “Dom, are you sure about this? This…” she looked down at the key in her hand, looped on one of her fingers. “This is a pretty big step.” 

“I plan on making a lot more with you.” He stood up, pulling her up with him, then lifted her into his arms. “How about we celebrate this in the bedroom?” 

Harper kissed along his jaw trying to keep her laughing to a minimum, not wanting to wake up Jim, “I like the sound of that.” 

Chapter Text

Sympathy for the Devil 

I've seen fire and I've seen rain

I've seen sunny days that I thought would never end

I've seen lonely times when I could not find a friend

But I always thought that I'd see you again

Fire and Rain By James Taylor

20 David: House Raid

Luca

The smell of permanent markers and bleach filled the small house, burning the inside of his nostrils. PCP paraphernalia was everywhere. Capsules, bottles, and needles littered the available surface. 

Luca and Street were near the back of the house, in the ‘kitchen’ area of the drug operation. Hondo came in from the side of the house through the backdoor, “what have we got?” 

Street circled the counter, “this is like the fifth that we’ve raided this week.” He grabbed a jug of the liquid, turning it to read the bottle, “an airplane. Same as the last two raids.” 

Luca sighed, looking around the space again, the airplane was a new brand to the area, from what the drug unit supplied, it started right here in LA, and has already resulted in a dozen of overdoses. This was the more unnerving part of the job, finding evidence of crime happening but not the bad guys to take down the whole thing. There was a reason he was in SWAT and not on the track to becoming a Detective. Kicking down doors, apprehending suspects, that’s what he was good at. This whole ‘questions without clear answers’ thing, the waiting was killing him. 

Hondo huffed out a breath, he was tired of it too. Everyone was tired of this. “I’m going to go check with Chris and Tan - meet out front in five.” 

Luca and Street both said their agreement and kept searching every available space for clues, anything to point them towards a name. He was down checking for loose floorboards when he heard a small cough. His head snapped to Street, hand tensing on his HK. 

“There’s no basement right?” Street’s eyes scanned the available area trying to listen for the noise again. 

He shook his head, “no, but there might be a crawl space under the house.” He opened the back door and moved to the yard, looking under the stairs to find a loose set of the wood lattice that could let someone under the foundation of the home. Luca could hear Street calling for support when they started to hear crying.

“Luca-“ his head snapped up, hearing the worry in Street's voice, “that’s a kid!” 

He pulled off his rifle, handing it to Street before ripping back the lattice wood and crawling under the steps, turning on a headlamp on his way. He didn’t have to go far. The first thing he saw was a pink arm cast and matching sneakers. Their little body curled in to shield them. 

He cleared his throat trying to get their attention, “hey. Hey it’s alright. We’re the good guys. We’re police officers.” He grunted as he reached down into his holster to pull his badge and glow sticks loose. 

The arm cast moved to show the little girl's face, caked with dust and dirt; she looked spooked, but relatively unharmed. “Hey there, my name's Luca. What’s your name?” 

She was squinting at him, “sorry is the light too bright?” Moving slowly so as to not scare her, he turned his headlamp off and cracked the sticks so they could still see. “Do you know who the police are?” That got him a nod from her, he held out his badge for her to see, “I’m a police officer, ok? I want to help you get out of here so we can get you home. How’s that sound?” He smiled at her holding out his free hand for the girl to take. 

Slowly moving so she was on her knees facing him, she reached out, eyes flicking from his hand to his face, as if watching for him to do something. When her small hand curled around a few of his fingers, he gave it a squeeze and lightly pulled her close to him. “It’s ok- I’m going to get you out of here.” He held her to his chest and slowly crawled his way back to the opening. “Street - call the RA on scene, I want to get her looked at.” 

SWAT Headquarters

Luca 

When she was getting checked out by EMTs, Luca tried everything he could to get the girl to talk but did not have any luck - she was scared of everyone, clutching on to her doll like she’d float away if she’d let go. 

Luca was watching now as Deacon tried to engage with the little girl from the workbench when Jessica approached him. “I’ve called in reinforcements - she should be here any minute” 

He looked quizzically at his Captain “social services? You said they wouldn’t be here for hours.” 

Hearing the elevator doors open caused the two to turn towards them - walking in stood Harper, clad in her usual business attire, black skirt, white blouse, and today, a bright floral blazer, office bag in tow. Her escort pointed her towards Jess and Luca, giving a small wave when she spotted the two. 

He didn’t wait for her to reach them, meeting her halfway to give her a bear hug, keeping PDA to a minimum since they were at work, “I thought you were in Sacramento?” 

She smiled lightly and shook her head, “I was about to leave. Like I was at the airport” Luca chuckled and led her back to where Jess was standing. Harper's brows creased as she looked at Jess “what’s going on? You were pretty cryptic on the phone.” 

Jess pulled her to where Harper could see Deacon with the little girl at the benches. She quickly turned her head back and looked between the two, questions forming behind her tired eyes. 

Luca broke first. “We found her hiding in a drug house during a raid, we can’t get her to talk to anyone, none of the people we apprehended knew she was even at the house… It looks like she was stowing away when we came in.” 

“So you want me to try talking to her.” She filled in the blank, staring at the both of them.

Jess rubbed at the back of her neck, “you think you can?” 

Harper thought it over, he knew she would agree, but was glad she was taking the implications into account before committing to it. “Is there a smaller room we could talk to her in? Maybe somewhere with a couch and a closing door?” 

“You can use my office.”

She looked back towards the little girl, “let me talk to her first. Could you get me two waters and have them waiting in there?” 

Luca answered “I’ll get them for you, Honey” Harper turned her attention back to him, giving his hand a quick squeeze before walking over to Deacon and the girl. 

—---- 

Deacon 

Deacon raised his head to see a young woman approaching, his eyes flitted to their Captain who was behind her. When Cortez gave him the nod, he stood up to greet her, “Sargent David Kay - they call me Deacon” 

Harper shook his outstretched hand, “it’s nice to officially meet you Deacon, Dom has told me a lot about you. My name is Harper Murapi, Captain Cortez would like me to talk with our little lady here if that is alright.”

Deacon smiled, “The famous Harper, it’s good to finally meet you. Please let me know if you need anything.” 

He backed off a bit but stayed nearby, wanting to be close in case she needed anything. Harper nodded and turned her attention to the little girl sitting on the bench, she was obviously paying attention to the conversation but pretending to fiddle with her doll's dress. He watched Harper take note of her right arm that was in a pink cast, her tattered looking jumper and drity blonde hair that had not been brushed in several days. Instead of kneeling in front of the girl like he had, she sat on the bench next to her, leaving enough space between the two to put her large bag down and started fumbling through it before producing two applesauce squeeze pouches and a granola bar along with crayons and a small coloring book. The girl took interest in the book and looked up at Harper. 

Harper smiled at her before speaking. “Would you like to color some pages with me? Maybe we can go somewhere a little more quiet and that has a table for us - it’s pretty noisy right here don’t you think?” The girl hesitantly nodded before standing. Harper handed over the book “Just follow me ok? If you want to hold my hand you may” The girl shook her head and backed up a bit. Harper nodded and grabbed her bag along with the food and crayons “Follow me” 

When Jess and Luca looked up from the table they were working at, they saw the little girl trailing behind Harper, who was slowly making their way to Captain Cortez’s office. Deacon turned to look at Luca “So that’s Harper? I can’t believe I haven’t met her ‘till now.” Dom smiled fondly, watching her every move as she walked towards the door. Harper must have sensed him, because she looked back over to him and gave him a quick smile before disappearing behind the door. “God you got it bad, Luca.” Deacon chuckled, he remembered when he first met Annie, he could feel her eyes on him from anywhere in a room - it’s still that way all these years later. 

Dom looked between Deacon and his Captain, “I love her, what can I say?” 

Jess just smiled and looked back over to the door “make sure you let her know that.” Deacon hummed in agreement. 

—-----

Jess 

She hated having to ask Harper for these kinds of favors. But she was the best at getting them to talk, they felt safe with her, she was the calmness and stability that everyone leaned on. But she wasn’t always like that. Jess remembers the shy, on edge girl who was ready to run at any given chance, who didn’t trust anyone. And god could you blame her? 

Harper had grown a lot. Hell, they all had. Fifteen long years will do that to you. Maggie and Rashida had kids now, Harper and Jess the only two holding on to their bachelorette status for as long as they could, not willing to hold back their goals to anyone who couldn't flow with them. 

She looked over to Luca who was looking at videos in the ops room, if she had known what good he would do for her bestfriend she would have dragged Harper to an event for them to meet years ago. What were the odds of those two working like they do? And meeting at our mutual friends' shop? Harper would roll her eyes and say it was because she gave up on the idea of having a family in the traditional sense, and that’s why he walked into her life. Rashida would say that it was fate, Maggie would brag that it was her coffee. Jess didn’t really give a shit what it was. Her friend was happy, so she was too. 

An hour passed before her phone pinged on the table - “we’ve got a first name and age, Emily. Harper says she’s four- almost five. Chris, I want you to pull missing persons from all over LA to see if there are any young girls matching her name and description–” another ping came through “she’s apparently hungry. Harper has made a list of things she would like us to bring for her.” 

Luca stepped forward, “I can grab them whatever they need” 

“She wants to get her some fresh clothes along with the food. She’s covered in dirt and dust from being under the house.” 

He nodded in understanding, “I’ve been shopping with her before for emergency cases - if she tells me sizes I can get whatever she needs” 

Deacon chimed in “I can go with him if you’d like Cap.” 

Jessica was busy texting Harper back but nodded “alright - I sent you the list Harper sent over to your cells. Be quick, she’ll get more out of her soon.” 

—-- 

Target Run - Deacon and Luca 

“So you’ve been shopping with her for little kids clothes before?” Deacon tossed in a pair of glittery tennis shoes into the cart before moving onto the clothing isles with Luca. 

“Yea, she wants all the people who come into the shelter to have a few things they would like, especially those who come with nothing but what they have on.” 

Deacon picks up a bag of socks and checks the sizing “She sounds like a saint, can’t believe I haven’t met her sooner.” 

Luca was busy looking through the pink shirts trying to find the sizes Harper had told them to grab. “Our schedules are crazy, and any time we have where we can see each other, I want to have her all to myself. It’s not for lack of trying, she was supposed to come to the last cookout we had at your place, but she got pulled into an emergency meeting. And she is a saint- at least to me. Like the care and just… thought she puts forward for the survivors who come into the shelter is - I don’t know man.” 

He shook his head in disbelief and moved over to the pants and started digging through and grabbing a couple of pairs before moving towards the health and beauty section of the store, “like, we were hanging out one night when a call came in - it was like when we are on call - responding. We were up and in the nearest store before I knew what was happening, she was on the phone with the mom, asking about the kids favorite colors, tv shows, if they could tie their laces yet. She moved through the store like a hurricane - it was incredible” 

“She doesn’t have any kids right? She wants us to grab a hair brush, hair ties, and wipes.”

Luca moved down the aisle, grabbing items from the list as he continued “No, we haven’t talked about it a lot - but she wants them, and so do I. I can’t not see her as a mom. Like, she's fantastic with every kid she meets. I mean, look what she's been able to do with Emily that we couldn’t do all day?” 

That stopped Deacon in his tracks, “this is really serious then?” 

“Of course it is.” 

“Luca, I know I haven’t met her - truly met her yet. But I know you put your heart and soul into things. Aren’t you worried you’re moving a little fast?” 

He quickly shook his head, “Nah man, we’re moving at a snail's pace. I’ve still got a lot of her to figure out, we’re still learning each other. She asked for slow, so that’s what we’re doing. Should’ve seen her reaction when I gave her a spare key to my place, I think she would’ve looked calmer with a live grenade.” Luca looked at his phone at the list again, “I think that’s everything. We should get back, Captain is probably wondering what’s taking us so long.” 

He knew Annie was it very early on, but there were still a lot of bumps in the road they worked through. Deacon could only pray that Luca and Harper could work through it like they did. One thing he knew for sure, he couldn’t wait to tell Annie when he got home tonight, this was the perfect team gossip that she loved. 

—-- 

SWAT Command Center 

Luca 

By the time Luca and Deacon returned, the rest of the crew was gathered around the table along with another woman who Luca assumed was from CPS. Chris filled them in while Deacon and Dom laid out pizza for the rest of the team. Keeping the box for Harper and Emily aside with the bags. “Harper was able to get more info out of her. It’s just her and her mom - she has no siblings or pets and her mom leaves her home a lot at night. She doesn’t know her address but gave us a general description of her apartment. We’re going to leave in a few to check the surrounding blocks to the house we found her at - she couldn’t have gone far. This is Mrs. Chavez from CPS, she’s here to document and help Harper as needed.” 

Dom looked around at the team, everyone had an assignment it seemed “I’ll take these into Harper and Emily then and see if she needs anything else. Mrs. Chavez, would you like to come with me?” 

Harper had a princess movie playing in the background when he quietly knocked on the door and popped his head in, “I’ve bought pizza for the two Princesses in here, and a few other things.” 

Harper turned her head and beamed at Dom, she looked gorgeous as ever - she had her legs tucked under her on the floor, heels and blazer off revealing part of her tattoo. “Hi Officer Luca - Emily this is who I was telling you about, this is one of the officers who you saw earlier at the house. And one of my friends, Mrs. Chavez. She works to help keep kids safe, she’s going to eat with us if that’s ok with you?” 

The little girl looked up at him and Mrs. Chavez, assessing them both before turning back to Harper’s computer. Harper just smiled and added “don’t worry, she likes princess movies too.”

Mrs. Chavez laughed, “especially Princess and the Pauper, that was my daughter’s favorite.” 

He took that as an ok to walk into the room. Harper got up to help Luca with the bags, giving him a quick peck on the cheek before turning back to Emily. “Emily, before we eat we should wash our hands and faces. How does that sound? We can pause the movie and start it again when we’re back. Our coloring and the food will still be here when we come back. And you can have as much as you want.” Emily looked between the food and the movie before nodding and standing up. 

Harper grabbed Dom’s shirt and tugged him towards the long way around the couch, farthest from Emily, “could you put the pizza on the desk? Thank you so much Officer Luca”. Harper went to the coffee table and paused the movie before holding her hand out to Emily, who grasped it before heading out to the bathrooms. 

—---------

When Dom popped his head back into the office an hour later, Emily was asleep on the couch with Harper’s blazer being used as a blanket. She looked up to see him before slowly standing and nodding to Ms. Chavez before exiting the room slowly. 

“Have you all found anything?” she whispered, looking up into Dom’s eyes. 

“We’re still trying to locate the house she described. Is she ok?” 

Harper bit the inside of her cheek, rubbing her hands up her arms, “She had been left alone for days in the house- that’s why she left, to go find food and her mom. She left yesterday afternoon to look for her, before hiding in the house you all went in this morning.” 

Dom took off his hoodie before wrapping it around Harper “We’ll find her. It’s just taking us longer than we hoped.” He tugged her close to zip it up for her, “what will happen to her in the meantime?” 

She pulled her arms through the holes and sighed at the warmth. “Thank you babe. She’ll be staying with me tonight. I took tomorrow off so I can help with this– “ 

“They’re just going to let you have her for the night? Isn’t there… like a process or something?” 

Harper started wringing her hands and was looking anywhere but at Dominique. “Well… I started the process for adopting or fostering long before I met and started dating you -  I know we haven’t talked about this - and I always thought - I always thought I would have to do adoption or other methods. I didn’t… think I'd ever have a partner I would have to consider these steps with. If that is something you don’t want I can understand - we haven’t even-” 

Dom cupped Harper's cheeks, forcing her to look up at him and stop her rambling, “Harper, Honey.. I know we haven’t talked about kids in detail or anything, and it is something I do want to discuss with you, that and other things, ok?” He kissed her, soft, chaste, before leaning his forehead against his, like his intent would be able to pass into that stubborn head of hers better this way. “I want to make one thing clear: I love you. If you would have had kids when we met, it would not have stopped me from asking the most beautiful girl I have ever met for her number that day.” 

Harper held on to Dom's forearms and breathed in and out slowly, trying to calm her rapidly beating heart. Dominique Luca is a man of action, but Harper needed the words, so that’s what she got. She felt her eyes start to burn before rapidly blinking the tears away. His thumbs rubbed along her cheekbones before he pulled her to his chest. His lips grazed her forehead before wrapping her in his arms. Harper held him tight around his middle before pulling back to look up at him. “I love you so much Dom. I never thought I would find someone like you.” 

“Good luck getting rid of me.” 

“Wouldn’t dream of it.”

—- 

SWAT Headquarters Chris and Street 

“Are you watching this right now???” Chris was happily gnawing on a pizza crust and watching Harper and Dom talking outside of Captain Cortez’s office. “This is better than cable” 

Street groaned, hiding his face in his hands, “only cause you don’t see it all the time - at least they keep it tame here.” 

She laughed, “I believe that, remember when we painted? How many times did we have to separate the two of them?” 

“Too many.” 

“Too many indeed.”

He shrugged, “I mean, I do think it’s sweet. They’re good for each other.” 

Chris hummed in agreement, watching the two continue to make heart eyes at each other, but could feel eyes watching her too. Her attention quickly turned to the guy beside her. She raised an eyebrow in question at Street. 

“I’m glad we’re.. You know, talking again,” his lips tilted up slightly at the corners and quickly looked back down at the paper in front of him, a real Jim Street(™) smile. It had been before ‘the incident’ that she last saw that smile. Even longer before then when she was the reason behind it. “It was rough, I understood why you needed that space. And it was a big boundary that we crossed.”

“Yea. Me too,” she bumped shoulders with him before turning to another uneasy topic, “you realize how bad today could have gone?” 

His shoulders sagged, hanging his head down, “if we had to use tear gas, or a flash grenade… one stray bullet, one stay anything-” He cut himself off before he could go down the dark dark rabbit hole of all the things that could’ve made a bad situation worse. 

“Do you think you would have heard her if you were both in a different room?” 

Street sighed, shaking his head, “no.” 

Chris reached for his hand and gave it a quick squeeze before letting go, her skin prickling from where they touched, “I’m glad we don’t have to worry about that.” 

He gave her another real smile, and that was all she needed. 

—---  

Harper’s House- Later that night 

She had done this only two other times before. Emergency fostering wasn’t what she wanted, but with her current schedule and overall lack of time, it was what she ended up doing. 

Emily was a gem. Settling into the couch with Harper, the Barbie YouTube channel playing on the screen for her while she finished heating up dinner. Dom had come over with Duke and ended up getting suckered into watching a princess movie before all of them went to bed for the night. Harper’s mind was reeling, sorting through information knowing she was missing something, but not sure of what. 

After a few hours of staring at the ceiling she slithered out of bed and went out to the couch so her moving around didn’t wake up Dom. There was no point in neither of them getting a good night's rest. She putzed around the kitchen, cutting the wildflower bouquet she was originally going to take with her to Sacramento this morning and put it in water. No use for them to die prematurely. 

She stared at the Johnny jump ups and poppies like they’d bite her if she leaned too close. They were her mom’s favorite. Something that Harper would bring to her gravestone twice a year, when she was able to. But it was looking like she wouldn’t make it this year. 

Sighing she reached into her carry-on bag she hadn’t bothered to unpack just yet, pulling out two more items. A black-pink stone, and a pink ribbon she was to put on Molly’s grave. Another gift that would have to wait. 

Next day 

SWAT HQ

Hondo POV 

“Jess.” 

Jess looked over to see Harper standing at the entrance to the room. Her arms were folded across her chest, she was wearing one of the compression sleeves she had gotten for her birthday, along with her usual business get up. 

“I know who her mother is,” 

“That’s great what-“ 

“No. Jess. I know who her mother is.” Harper tilted her head to the side, giving her the ‘think about it’ look. 

Hell yes finally a break - The look of Jess’s face told him otherwise. 

“Harper, can you give me a hint? Give us something.” She crossed her arms across her chest, staring at her best friend, the lines forming between her eyes, something he was used to seeing when she was frustrated. 

Biting at her cheek, Harper shrugged her shoulders. “I don’t know how I’m supposed to help. I’m trying to get it out of Emily but she’s too little. I’m sorry - I didn’t connect the dots sooner.” She shook her head in disbelief, a ringlet coming out of the bun she always wore. 

Hondo looked between the two girls not picking up on the convo. “What's going on?”

Harper looked conflicted, eyes flicking between Hondo and herself, “Emily’s mother has had services through HOME in the past. Since I know that I cannot share any personal information I have with her. If Emily knew more, or could say more, we’d be fine.” 

“There are laws protecting all victims who seek help through victim service agencies.” Jess added, rubbing at the back of her neck, trying to relieve the pressure there. 

Harper at least has the decency to look a little sorry for the situation they’re now in. 

Hondo sighed and went back to the table, “are we at least looking in the right direction?” 

She bit at her cheek again in thought before her eyes lit up. “Ask me another question.” 

“What was she seeing you for?” Hondo blurted out.

“Can’t answer that. Ask another.” 

Jess crossed her arms staring at the table in thought, Hondo piped up, “is what you’re doing right now legal Harper? I don’t want any of us doing this if it’s not by legal means.” 

“Trust me Hondo, I protect these laws with my life, I helped write and lobby three of the five current DV state laws.” He gaped at her and she stared right back, not very amused with being off topic, “ask me another question Jess.”

 “You said you know her mother, but you haven’t met Emily. You meet every child that comes through your doors.” 

Harper nodded her head in agreement, “that’s a fair assumption.” 

Hondo was picking up what she was putting down. “Did her mother come in with any others?” 

“Can’t answer that.” 

“You said through, not at.” Jess added.

Hondo was so fucking lost trying to keep up with these two. They were talking through their eyes more than with their mouths. But he couldn’t miss Harper’s smile and encouraging nod to Jess.

“Yes I did, Cortez. What does it mean?” 

Their Captain tapped her finger against the table before lighting up with clarity. “You only meet with clients or perspectives at the center or -” She snapped her fingers, pointing at Harper, “she was at a hospital.” Jess turned on her heel and moved towards the computers. “How long ago was it when you met Kara Davis?” 

“That’s not her last name. But it will be five months on the 30th.” 

Jess smirked at the computer as she found everything she needed. “Kara Summers. 24. I have an address, phone number, I’ll work on getting everything else.”

 Hondo came up beside Harper and squeezed her shoulder, “you’re a real one Harp. Thank you.” 

She didn’t respond to his remark, but was instead staring blankly at the screens their Captain was able to put up. Hondo went to ask if they were missing something when Jess spoke again. 

“No charges were filed for anyone? Nothing?” The strain in Jess’s voice had him turning towards the screen, “Half of her face is broken.” 

Harper sighed, “she wouldn’t give them a name. Because he was there.” 

Hondo pulled up the photos the investigator took and winced. 

Jess was busy looking at the report "Her brother… Jacq Summers. Brought her in. There’s no records for him, or that she has any siblings.” 

“I might have happened to have taken a picture of him. But I’m sure the investigator noted the tattoo too.” Harper reached into her pocket before pulling out a black and white photocopy of a man. He wasn’t directly looking at the camera, but it gave them a clean profile, and a clean shot of a recognizable gang tattoo on his neck. 

Hondo’s blood ran cold at the implications, “do you know what could have happened if he caught you taking this?” He pressed her, holding the picture in his hands. 

“Very.” She said coolly, staring at him but not rising to the bait. 

“And you still did it.” He shook his head before slapping the photo onto the table, “Harper there are worse things that can happen to you then a ‘random’ gang drive-by.” She didn’t look moved by his comment, not that he expected it, just.. Some type of reaction. Come on Harper, bite back. Fight me on this. 

She tilted her head looking back at the screen, the hospital room photos still pulled up, she wouldn’t look back at him, “there’s something else that’s bothering me. Emily said she was at a house. But on Kara’s license, it lists an apartment.” 

Hondo grinded his teeth together at her deflection but kept his mouth shut. The question was valid. Staring at the screens he nodded, “you’re right, that apartment is all the way in Alhambra, not near Hawthorne where the house was. There’s no way she could have walked that far.” He went up to an open screen and stared at the grid again.

Clearing her throat, Harper looked at Jess, “I’ll be in your office with Emily. Come get me if I’m needed. I’ll be working on my computer.” 

Turning on her heel she stalked towards her office, not even acknowledging Tan or Chirs when they passed. Both turned their heads in question towards the Ops room. 

Street POV 

SWAT HQ 

They got a break in the case later that day, Kara Summers, as it turns out, had been admitted to a hospital in downtown LA after being brought in for dehydration and malnutrition three days prior. She tried to run before the team could bring her in for questioning, only getting her to calm down when they told her they had found Emily. This was good. Hopefully. 

As it turns out, Street had a knack for finding people in crowded pictures, even grainy CCTV footage. With that, he was able to track “Jacq Summers” out of the Hospital, in a car and downtown, then got him using an ATM. Fucking bingo. 

Jack “High John” Blackwood, was a known name in what was thought to be a disbanded gang from the west side of the city. He had been arrested for small-time offenses, and was more of a handler than a drug lord. But, it seems that times have changed. After talking with some friends in VICE, Tan discovered he was slinging more than just drugs, women and other contrabands have been linked to him. And the list was only growing. 

What they couldn’t understand was how Jack and Kara were connected. Kara had never been arrested for anything, and seemed to have a steady work-from-home gig that provided enough for her and Emily. How did she get mixed up with Jack? 

These were all questions that Commander Hicks was going to ask until he came storming back out of the interrogation room, “Miss Summers will only talk to the police if Ms. Murapi is in the room as well.” Commander Hicks shot a look over towards Harper, she nodded her head in understanding but didn’t move as Hicks was still staring at her. 

“Why?” Street was confused, “no offense Harp, but we can’t have you in there spinning the narrative, we need answers. We’ve gotta find this piece of work before he hurts those other girls.” He hoped she didn’t take it the wrong way, he loved her and what she does for a living, but they needed to make this as clean of a case as possible. 

Harper cocked an eyebrow at him, “I understand that. But I was able to connect with her at the hospital, I think I can get her to open up more.” 

“Do you even know what kind of questions to ask?” Hondo pressed, Chris and Tan had told Street what they saw this morning in the Ops room, no one was sure what started the tension between the two, but they could cut it with a spoon. 

“Who do you think Jess studied with for her interrogation classes?” They all shot a look over to Jess who nodded, good enough for them. What about Hondo? 

Hondo shook his head, eyes hard set. He, Tan, and Deacon were geared up to follow up on another lead on the potential suspect, having an alias to track down. Luca and Chris were sitting with Emily for the moment. 

“I’ll go in with her, just for backup.” Jim bumped his elbow against Harper. “I was able to get her talking on the way here. And I can make sure Harper follows procedure.” 

Hondo didn’t look too convinced but after looking at Captain Cortez, nodded his approval, “fine.” Commander Hicks said, and pointed a finger at Harper, “one misstep and you’re out of there. Understand?” 

Nodding her rolled her shoulders, “I’ll follow procedures, I’ll let Jim lead.” 

One Hour Later. SWAT Interrogation Room #2

Jim had to fight back the bile that was slowly crawling up his throat as they exited the interrogation room, his stare was full of hurt and confusion, “Harper wh - “ 

“Dom doesn’t know yet. I would appreciate it if he heard it from me, Jim. Please.” She said quietly, looking up at him, god she needed his word right now, she needed him to understand. How could he not know? It was clear as day now. 

He scrubbed a hand down his face before nodding. “Of course. I just,” he took in a deep breath, releasing slowly, “I’m sorry.” He kept his voice quiet, worried someone would round the corner and happen upon their conversation. 

She shrugged, a half hearted smile gracing her face, “yea, me too.” Jess and Commander Hicks came out of the adjoining room, Jess pinning her with a look. “I’m fine J. go and find this guy.” 

Street and Jessica headed towards the ops room. Commander Hicks came to Harper’s side and guided her down the hall towards his office. “Sacramento, summer of 2002.” 

Of course he knew. “That’s correct.” 

“Always wondered what happened to you after the trial. Got a lot of money from the city.” 

She huffed out a breath, “I would have rather had my mother and sister alive than any money I got from the city or the Sinclair’s.” 

His eyebrows shot up, “I didn’t mean -” 

“No, I understand how it looks from the outside. I put officers in jail with my testimony.” 

“Ones that deserved it.” Dom had always described him as firm, but fair - even if it didn’t always seem that way. She saw understanding in his eyes, and she wanted to believe him. 

“Not everyone thinks that.” 

He scoffed and shrugged his shoulders, “People will believe whatever bullshit is fed to them. I read your impact statement. You had some balls to face him again.” 

She swallowed hard, holding back from shivering at the chill that coursed up her spine. She didn’t trust her voice at that moment, and decided to nod instead. 

“What did you do with all that money?” 

Harper took a breath and looked up at him again, “I invested all of it, and started HOME when I finished school.” 

He hummed in response, they both fixed their gazes fixed on the team in the ops room, all of them were back now, and gearing up to secure their target, provided by Kara. “Look at you now, helping police officers track down a high valued target.” 

If she didn’t feel so numb, she’d probably laugh at the irony of it all. “It’s fair to say I never saw this in my future. But then again, it was hard to picture a future for a while.”

“So Luca doesn’t know?” Commander Hick’s intense blue eyes were back on her now, eyebrows raised in waiting for an explanation from her. This wasn’t the cold stare he had set on her earlier, his face was more relaxed, it was a wonder to see how much tension he held in his face. She wondered what he’d look like with a genuine smile, then wondered how long it’s been since he’s had one. 

“Not yet, no.” she spun around the gear of her fidget ring, a well used birthday present that Dom had gotten her. “I don’t know how to tell him.” Harper bit at her cheek, mind racing with all of the scenarios that have plagued her mind. 

“And you’re worried he won’t take it well.” She nodded in agreement with Hicks. Her eyes landed on Dom, who was staring at her with a questioning look. Hicks turned and stepped in front of her, blocking the view of the Ops room. “I wouldn’t. If my Barb had gone through what you did,” he shook his head in disbelief, then set his hands on her shoulders, giving them a reassuring squeeze, “he is going to be mad when you tell him - pissed even. But it won’t be at you.” 

And with that, he walked into the Ops room, leaving Harper to stare after him. Not being able to face them just yet, ventured to the back stairwell to count to 100.

Street POV 

SWAT HQ Locker Room

“Is Harper ok?” 

Street did his best not to tense at the question. He didn’t want to lie to Luca, “what Kara talked about isn’t easy.” He nodded, but didn’t seem to relax at that, “what’s wrong man?” 

He watched as his best friend closed his eyes, face still set in hard lines as he took a deep breath, “I know- I know someone hurt her.” Luca rested his pointed finger against his head, working through his thoughts, “she talks about backing away from this side of victim services. And we put her in a situation yesterday where she couldn’t say no. wouldn’t say no.” 

Feeling his skin prickle like he’d been covered in vapor rub, he turned back to his locker, “I would talk it through with her, Luca. Last two days were rough on all of us. Go hang out with her, go surfing, go do something.” 

“Are you good, Street?” 

He gave him the best smile he could muster, “I’ll be alright man, as always. Let me know if you’ll be at our place or hers later will ya? I might bring pizza home.” 

Luca half smiled, not believing what Street was telling him, and brought him in for a hug before taking off, not wanting to keep Harper waiting for him in the lobby. 

—

Street sat on the bench to the locker room, everyone had left hours ago, he stayed to punch out his frustrations on the bags. His chest burned from the exertion, arms and legs shaking in relife that he was letting them rest. But his mind was still spinning. He put his head in his hands and closed his eyes, his afternoon on a constant loop.

Kara shifted nervously in her seat, eyes flitting between Harper and himself. “How would you know what this feels like? That man is a monster. Do you know what he would do to me? Do to Emily if I talk?” 

“I know, Kara. We know monsters. I see them every day with my work, and I know Office Street does as well,” Harper answered honestly, keeping eye contact with her. 

But Kara had some fight in her, he couldn’t blame her for biting back, it seemed to be the trend of the day, to fight with Harper, “but you’ve never had one coming for you though, have you?” 

Harper bit the inside of her cheek and looked over at Jim who was standing in the corner, eyes assessing. Something in his stomach started to churn, uneasiness seeping its way into his bones. He watched as she shrugged off her blazer, then extended her left arm palm up onto the table towards the woman. Showing the scarring that he’s seen dozens of times over the course of four months, scarring he has questioned her about. 

“ That was one fight I definitely didn’t win. ” She said it with such practice. A simple half truth that stalled people from prying open the Pandora box further than she was willing. 

He was all too familiar, half truths kept the pity out of people's eyes, kept the balancing act of normalcy… At least for a while. Why else would you do it? 

Then she opened the box, allowing Kara and by association, Jim, to peer inside. He wanted to be sick. This was his friend, his meme buddy, annoying older sister, and co-conspirator. And she had her own personal monster, just like him. 

“Growing up, my mom was in a less-than-stellar second marriage. When she tried to leave with me and my sister he found us. It was a few days before we could call for help. Mom died on the second night, my sister the third.” Harper waited for the woman to make eye contact with her again, while Jim was left reeling. “Kara, my answer still stands. I know monsters. I understand what you’re up against and we need your help with bringing him in.”  

Chapter Text

Eight - Sleeping at last 

And I remember being younger and my mother told me the truth

Find someone who grows flowers in the darkest parts of you

Take heed when things get hard and don't you ever turn around

You'll find someone, someday, somewhere that grows you to the clouds

Zach Bryan - Sun to Me

“... I honestly don’t know how to start this.” 

Luca

Harper had been a mess of nerves the whole drive, and it was worrying Luca to no end. She sat stone still in the passenger seat as they traveled back to her house, not that he was in much of a mood for talking. 

The case had been long and physically draining, but now he couldn’t shake the feeling that something bigger was going on in her head. While Dom did his best not to address her uneasiness in the car ride, it all came to a head when he asked about the items left on her kitchen counter. 

Talk to her 

“Never took you as a rock girl,” he picked up the small stone and brought it up to the light to see the deep pink hues brighten. 

“I’m not really ,” she stood at the end of the island stirring the honey into her chamomile tea, “It’s a rhodonite rock” 

He hummed and looked at the red and orange flowers sitting on her counter, not something he could see her buying for herself. Luca had learned, after much goading from Maggie and Jess, what her favorites were. While flower type didn’t matter, she had her set colors. Blue, green, and white. 

Then he spotted the pink grave ribbon. “You were going to visit them. Was that why you were flying to Sacramento for the day?” 

She nodded, but didn’t look up at him, “I always try to go on July 7th. Or sometime around that.” 

His head cocked to the side at hearing that, brows furrowing, “Molly’s birthday is in October. Mom's in April, right?” 

“It’s- well not really-“ she took a deep slow breath before letting it out through pursed lips. Harper dared to look up at him. She was just on the other side of the island, feeling both too close and too far away. And he couldn't take it any longer.

“Harper.” He gingerly laid his hands on top of hers, Luca hated seeing her like this. He knew this was important. That eventually he should know. It seemed like such a big secret that was kept between the girls. He had a feeling Street now knew, his eyes in the locker room reminded Luca of when he had told him about what happened with his parents, and it made the weight in his stomach ten times worse. “Honey, you don’t have to tell me right now. I mean- I know something happened. I didn’t look anything up at work - I just, when I first saw your arms - I figured you’d tell me when you were ready.” He cupped her face, tracing her cheekbones much like he did yesterday when he attempted to comfort her.

She pulled him into her arms, burying her head against his chest, “thank you.” she rasped out, “I need to tell you, and I’ve been putting it off for far too long.”  

He gently kissed her hairline, keeping a tight hold on her, “I said I’d wait as long as you needed baby, and I mean it. If you’re not ready yet.”

Harper shook her head pulling back slightly, “no. I’m - I’m as ready as I’ll ever be Dom.”

Luca nodded, running his hands down her neck and arms before clasping both hands, “come on, let’s go sit on the couch.” 

They held hands as they walked to the couch, Dom sat down first and turned to face her as she sat next to him. Harper started to fiddle with his fingers, it gave him something for his mind to focus on for a moment, saving him from catastrophizing his thoughts. 

They sat in silence until she took a breath. 

Harper.

How can a person feel cold and on fire at the same time? The worry was sitting right on her neck, making it difficult to raise her head to meet his gaze. “After my dad died, mom’s parents moved us out to Sacramento to be near them - we had no money, no family left-“ 

“Her mother was kind, for a time to me. She would at least talk to me from time to time. Her father was another story. He never overtly said anything… mean to me, but you just know when you’re not wanted, ya know?” 

“Your mom didn’t stop this?” 

Harper shook her head, “I didn’t tell her. I knew how close we were to living on the streets.” She shrugged, it didn’t matter, in the long term, that wasn’t the worst the Ó Dálaigh’s did to her or her family. “Then mom met and married my step dad. He was charming. Loaded… good family with even more money. It’s all they cared about. All that mattered. Mom got pregnant with Molly soon after they met, and married when they found out.”

Breathe. Breathe. Breathe. She was beginning to feel numbness work her way down from her cheeks and neck, making her cold all over. Pinching her nose in frustration she continued “It - I can look at it now and see everything for what it was. The early signs of - the manipulative behaviors, the uneasiness when it was just us with him versus when we were with others . ” 

Calloused hands continued to rub up along her sides as Harper paused to collect her thoughts, but Dom kept quiet. She couldn’t bring herself to meet his eyes yet but was sure they were still watching her.

“It wasn’t long after Molly was born that it turned physical. And I thought that was going to be my life from then on out. And for five years it was.” 

He noticed her freeze, of course he did, and squeezed her hands, tugging her onto his lap, “I’m so sorry baby,” he ran his hands up and down her back, she held onto him tightly. 

Harper didn’t know how long they sat there like that. She could feel him trying to form a question, but feeling a bout of bravery, continued talking, “I don’t know what made mom finally decide that enough was enough. I remember -  fuck - this euphoria of being away from him. It made me so unaware of what was happening around me, until we found him inside the safe house the Shelter had assigned us. He dragged us back home.”

Dom’s voice came out like gravel, but she still understood, “he did this.” His hand skimmed up to her chest, skimming the scar there before traveling down her arm again. She made a noise in the back of her throat, not trusting her voice anymore. Harper watched Dom’s brow furrow in thought, but he never let go of her, “Is he dead?” 

She let out a choked sound and shook her head until she finally grasped out, “prison.” 

His jaw ticked, “what’s his name, Harper.” 

Her throat was burning as she tried to keep her breathing steady. His hand that was not on her scar was rubbing her back in an attempt to comfort, even as she felt him shake. 

Swallowing down the ball in her throat she strained out “Reese Sinclair.”

She saw the exact moment understanding crossed his eyes. 

Then anger.  

Luca

 He should have known. He should have fucking known. 

The newsreels from that case came flooding back, conversions with his dad and grandad.

“No…” Her hand squeezed his arm that was still tracing the scars on her chest. 

FBI brought in to investigate the Sacramento Police Department 

LA Times: Corruption in Sacramento Police results in deaths of Mother (45) and child (6)

His pops muttering over beers at Charlie’s, “that police department is the reason people don’t call the police anymore. It's why there's so much distrust.”

The case was all over the news of months, police were called over 40 times in three years, there were no arrests, sanctions, warnings - no police reports 

CNN News Report: Real Estate Mogul, Reese Sinclair, charged with the vicious murder of his wife and one of his children, his other child, 15 is still in the ICU.

Dom was sitting at the dining room table with his dad and granddad having breakfast before work. Discussing the Sinclair case, it was all anyone talked about at work this past month “My buddy in the feds said the girl woke up- that police department is about to get buried” His pops had said. 

“Nothing less than they deserve.” his grandad sighed. 

Dom shook his head watching the updates play on their TV, “that poor girl.” 

He could faintly hear her speaking to him through the pounding in his ears, “Dom, it’s ok. Baby. I’m ok.” 

He let out a breath he didn’t know he was holding and hauled her against his chest, holding her there. She was murmuring soothing words to him while rubbing his back. He felt hot and rigid - thoughts running wild. How can she even stand to be near me? How could she stand to be near ANY cop? He squeezed her tight, a choked sob wracked through him. 

Luca remembered it all so clearly now. Her testimony put five police officers in prison as accessories to murder along with a slew of other charges. Sinclair - Her fucking stepfather - He reminded himself bitterly, had over 100 charges placed on him by the time the trial started. 

“Dom. Look at me please.” His eyes burned, she wiped away the tears that spilt over. She had unshed tears in her eyes, but she looked- she looked worried? “Are you ok?”

What? 

“How are you not angry?” 

She sighed and wiped at her eyes, “I’ve had my time Dom. I can’t let it consume me more than it already does.” 

“How can you even stand to be near cops? Be near me? Fuck Harper. I’m a cop and I can’t imagine it.” 

She leaned back so she had some distance to really look at him, he kept his hands on her hips, needing the connection. “Honestly, therapy… and Jess helped - validating a lot of shit. That there needs to be change. I also knew that I needed to be able to trust them if I wanted HOME to work. That alone was worth it to me to overcome the main negative feelings I have towards the police.”

Dom tried to even his breathing, his jaw ached from him grinding his teeth. “He took everything from you.”

She let out another shaky breath and cupped his face again. “I used to think that. It took years for me to start believing otherwise.” She ran her thumbs along his cheekbones, “no. He didn’t take everything. He certainly tried. I’m still here Dom. My voice, my love, everything I am given and everything I give. He cannot take that from me. I will not let him take that from me.” 

He took a deep breath still holding her tightly like she’d float away if he let go. All of it made sense. The extra security at her house, the protectiveness of her loved ones, the reluctance she had at telling him. 

The nightmares. 

He remembers the first night he was woken up to her having one. It scared the shit out of him thinking she was hurt before he realized she was still asleep. After shaking her awake she kept apologizing. He held her as she cried herself back to a dreamless sleep, he stayed awake. Watching to make sure she was fine. 

“Fuck Harper, I’m so sorry.” Dom pulled her back to him, kissing any part of her face he could reach, “I’m so so sorry baby.” 

She finally broke down, letting the big well of tears fall down her face, and he held her through it. “I was so worried you’d leave - when I told you. And I didn’t want to lose you.” 

Luca felt the words against his neck and pulled her back to grab her face in his palms, he could barely see her through his own tears, but it didn’t stop him “Never. Never ever Harper. I’m not fucking leaving.” 

And they stayed like that, for the rest of that afternoon and well into the night. She shared her demons, and in turned he shared his. 

Jess

Exhaustion didn’t seem to cover the heaviness that sat on the Captain's shoulders this morning. The knot in her neck was back, an old knee injury during her undercover days was flaring up, and her best friend had been radio silent for what was going to be two days. Don’t get her wrong, they didn’t text each other all day every day. But it was always something. Something from instagram, a reminder, an ‘i miss you we need sushi soon’. 

This morning she got her answer from Rashida, who had called her around 5 AM, speaking softly into the phone as she started getting the kids ready for their hour bus ride to school, “she told him.”

That explained a lot. 

It made her more prepared for when she finally made her way out of her office, and was met with a familiar sight. Luca was standing with his arms crossed staring at the screen in front of him when she came into the Ops room. The angry set in his brow had her more worried than anything. 

He wasn’t scheduled to come in today - “Luca?” she approached him hesitantly. Coming to see what was on the screen. When she saw a familiar name and mug shot displayed on the screen. Jess took in a deep breath before looking up at his face again. She has seen Luca worked up before, but honestly couldn’t remember ever seeing him like this. The vein in his temple was prominent, and his eyes were rimmed red - he’d been crying. 

“She told me everything.” he seethed through gritted teeth. Eyes still trained on the photo. 

Jessica closed her eyes, reliving the heartache she and the girls went through when Harper had told them the first time. She was 19 again. Staring at four empty bottles of cheap screw top moscato between the four of them on the living room floor of their first apartment. But she couldn’t cry anymore. 

~~~~~~~~~~

“I got to graduate high school, I got to celebrate birthdays, and college, and friendships, and - and being independent while they didn’t. I was supposed to be the fun older sister who would sneak her alcohol in undergrad and help her land a summer job. I shouldn’t have had to fucking burry her. She was the only reason I didn’t run away when I was younger. I couldn’t leave her behind, but I couldn’t fucking keep her safe either . What good was I in the end? How am I any different now? I don't want to do this without them.” 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

She took a deep breath before looking back at Luca, “how is she?” 

He finally looked over to her. He looks even worse head on. “We were up most of the night… I told her I had to do a few things. I’ll be going back there soon. I just- “ He looked back at the screen, she could see his jaw clench, “I needed to check.” 

She looked back at the photo, she knew what he was feeling. The anger and the helplessness of knowing there was nothing they could do. “He’s on Death row.” 

“Pardon my language Cap. But that doesn’t mean shit. There hasn’t been an execution since 2006.” 

“Either way- he’s not getting out of there.” 

He didn’t seem pleased with that answer. “What about the officers?” 

 “they’re all in for life as well.” 

He nodded but didn’t make a move to leave. She looked around to see who all was here before turning back to him “Luca - you should get back to Harper. I know Deacon and Chris are filling in today… and I don’t like the fact that she’s alone right now.” 

“Rashida’s with her. But you’re right… I don’t want them asking questions right now. And I need to get back to her.” 

She rubbed at the back of her neck in thought, “this is not easy to process, Luca. I know for damn sure it wasn’t for me. Take the time you need before you come back, alright?” 

“Thanks Cap - I’ll let you know about work later today or tomorrow. I’m… I’m also here to talk with Wendy before I go. She’s probably waiting for me.” 

Jess grabbed his arm as he started to walk towards the back offices, keeping her voice low and steady. “It will never stop hurting. I’ve known for almost two decades and it still eats me up inside. But it will get easier. I might stop by her place later to check on her if that’s ok?” 

Luca nodded again, eyes fixed straight ahead of him, “that would be good…” His stature relaxed a fraction, enough to turn his head to face her again, “Thank you. Jess. For everything.” 

She shrugged. “You’re dating my best friend. Outside of this role, I’d like to consider us friends as well. Now go.” 

````````````````````````````````

Hondo

“What do you mean Luca’s out today?” Chris said, staring at Street.

Jim wasn’t making eye contact with anyone, taking his time getting changed into his uniform. 

“I mean that he’s not coming in today - what about that is hard to believe?” 

“The part where he’s not coming in.” Chris countered.

“Street, what’s going on?” Tan asked, honestly concerned. 

Street shrugged his shoulders burying his head in his locker to reach for something, “I don't know. Him and Harper went up to Sacramento yesterday, he’ll be back tomorrow for our next rotation.” 

Hondo wasn’t buying it, he had reached out to Luca yesterday when he had heard he’d be out and received no answer, just a quick text saying he’s taking some personal time. Something didn’t sit right with him about it, and for the life of him he couldn’t figure out why. 

 In a last ditch effort to find some answers, Hondo decided to wait back for Jim. Street noticed what was going on immediately, face closing off like he used to when he first joined the team. 

Hondo held up his hands in open surrender, showing that he wasn’t looking for beef with him. “Street, what’s really going on?”

Street’s head shook once in answer to the question, but had a hard time holding eye contact with his squad leader, “Hondo - it’s not my place to share.” 

Taking a steading breath to keep his cool, he tried again, “It’s obviously serious if it means Luca is missing work. That man doesn’t just take time off like this.” Hondo took the seat right next to Street, staring him down before relaxing at the troubled look in Street’s face, “I’m worried, man.” 

Jim groaned, taking a long breath and letting it out through his teeth. “Hondo… I can’t. He’ll be back tomorrow. But I don’t think it’s something you need to bother him about. He’s allowed to take days, and he did." With that, he stood up, snatching his helmet and backpack, “If he’s home when I get there I’ll have him call you, alright?” 

Hondo sighed, nodding. It’d be good enough for now. 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

~ Same time as that ~

Harper

Dom hummed in thought as he looked around the property they were currently viewing. Harper smiled, eyeing him up as he checked for leaks in the kitchen area before moving to check the cupboards. 

“Are you checking me out right now?” He side eyed her as they moved towards the dining area. 

She smiled, not feeling ashamed at looking at her man, “Can ya blame a girl? You’re quite the looker.” 

He chuckled and pulled her into his side kissing her head. “So what do you think of this place?” 

Harper looked around once more before nodding her head, “I think it's nice. Doesn’t need too much work.” 

Dom nodded in agreement, moving through the room and looking out the windows to see what the view looked like, “are we going to put an offer in?” 

“You think we should?” 

Nodding his head he smiled at her again, this was his first time looking at houses with her, even if it wasn’t for them, it was for HOME, and he was honored that she trusted him like this part of her life. The last few days  for them were… difficult to put it lightly, but it solidified their commitment to each other in a way nothing else could. 

They continued to move through the house, doing a final walk through before finding the realtor. “Our house will be a lot bigger.” Dom looked around the master bedroom’s ceilings for damage, and was pleased when he found none. “I’m thinking… at least five bedrooms. And a yard of course.” She just stared at him as he continued to ramble. “And maybe a bedroom above the garage so Street can be a live-in uncle - he’d love that. And a library-slash- home office set up for you.” 

Harper went stone still as the air was pushed out of her lungs, “you’d give me a library?” 

He gave her an incredulous look, “of course I am. It probably wouldn’t be big enough for all of your books… but it’d be a space for you. I’ve been watching tik toks of a secret library in peoples houses, I’d do that for you if we can find a way to.” 

Her face heated painfully as she held back the fresh round of tears that threatened. She pretended to be fascinated with the curtains, trying to remember the lines to her favorite song to stave off from having a meltdown in the middle of an open house. 

When she found her voice again, Harper changed direction on the conversation. “Where would the pinball machine be?” 

“In the family room maybe? I’m not sure, we’d find the space for it somewhere.” She felt him brush a hand along her spine, making her turn to meet his worried expression, “you ok?” 

Harper nodded, tugging on his shirt till he got the hint to lean down for a quick kiss, keeping his face close. Her voice trembled as she spoke softly to him, “it’s hard to believe you’re real most days, then you go saying things like that and you have me pinching myself again.” 

Dom chuckled and pinched her cheek teasingly before cupping it and pulling her back in for a deeper kiss, when they broke apart his voice was that husky tone that made her toes curl, “only with you Harper, would the idea of you having your own library make this happy.” He chuckled, kissing her nose before letting her go and walking towards the hallway, “can’t imagine what you’ll be like when I ask you to marry me.” 

He did not. “Dom - what,” she made her way towards him only to have him laugh and jog down the hall to the backyard, ignoring her half finished questions, her brain refusing to function at full capacity after that little stunt, “Dominique Luca - get back here right now.” 

—----------------------------------

He waited. Until late that night to finally give in and call him himself. He had sat on the couch in his living room staring blankly at the black screen for much longer than he’d like to admit, before giving in and dialing Luca. 

He picked up on the second ring. “Hey Hondo, what’s up?” 

Faintly in the background, Hondo could hear music and laughter, wherever he was, it wasn’t the dark place that was building in his mind these past two days. “My man, Luca. We missed you at work today. I just wanted to check in and see how you were doing?” 

He was met with silence for a few moments on the phone, some faint shuffling and a soft click of a door had him sitting up in his seat to listen better. “I’m doing fine Hondo, thanks for asking. I’ll be back tomorrow alright?” 

“Is everything good? I’ve never seen this radio silence before.” 

“Nah - I’m good, man. Just wanted to take some days, ya know?”  

He stopped walking, closing his eyes tightly before he let the words slip out, “I’ve been worrying about you, man” 

He heard Luca sigh on the other end of the phone, “Look man, I appreciate it - I do - but I’m cool, I’m liquid. I’ll be back in full action for you bright and early tomorrow. How about we see who’s still got the best bench out of us? What do ya say to that?” Hondo could hear the all familiar teasing in Luca’s voice, it made him chuckle just hearing it. 

“Oh, you’re on man. You better be bringing it tomorrow. Hope you haven’t gone soft with those days off.” 

Luca laughed, clicking his tongue at the light barb being thrown his way, “I’ll see ya then, Hondo.”

The phone screen showed the total call time of less than two minutes, but to him it was better than nothing. He hated where his gut was going with this, and there was one person he wanted to talk to more than anything to see if he was on the right path. 

Staring down at the contact for another minute, he pressed ‘call’ and brought the phone back up to his ear, listening for the few rings till the line connected, waited until they greeted him, and laid his heart on the table once again, “I could really use your advice right now Mama.” 

Chapter Text

Healing - Fletcher

You said “I will listen, tell it all 

When you’re finished, we’ll talk more”

But I didn’t know how, so I took it in turns 

To my surprise we found my words. 

Ready now- Dodie

June - on the way to Dionysus 

Luca

Above Dionysus was, at one point, a series of three apartments. When Dio originally bought the ground floor for the restaurant, only two tenants still occupied the upstairs, with Dio and his four oldest living in the third. After some years passed, he met and married Naomi, they had more kids, bought up the rest of the small building, and converted the whole of the second floor into one large apartment. Which worked nicely for the family with seven daughters. Dio had given the spiel to Luca the first time he was over, going over the ins and outs of the renovations that he did. They connected well in that aspect. Dio loved food and doing things with his hands, and Luca loved to eat and anything that involved him not being confined to a desk. 

Harper and Luca had just parked at HOME to start their walk down the street to Dionysus when he started to get anxious again, “so… Naomi is like your aunt?” 

Harper’s nose crinkled and she tilted her head to the side, thinking it through, “I’d consider her that I guess. She was one of the agents on the case and kept tabs on me after.” 

“Why didn’t you - Oh,” this was the fourth time they’ve gone to the Vitalis for Sunday dinner, but the first time since everything got aired. 

He didn’t need her to clarify on what case she was talking about, but he pulled her into his side a little tighter anyways as they walked down the street. Until this point, Naomi had been away on assignments anytime Luca came with Harper. 

“I’m sorry,” Harper’s hand twitched and he could feel without looking that she was trying to pull into herself again. 

“No, don’t do that.” He quickly stopped her from an unneeded apology, again. Luca pulled her into a stop so he could face her, “if anything, it explains some of the graduation photos I saw on their walls, I thought you didn’t meet them till later.” 

Harper smiled lightly, she was less timid about discussing things like this now, but he knew it was going to be difficult for a while. “She was happy I told you. Dio already likes you. So do the girls.” 

Luca smiled, wrapping an arm around her shoulders as they started their walk again, “I like them a lot too. So, is she going to interrogate me?” 

From Harper’s description and the photos he’s seen of Naomi, the woman was taller than even Dio and had a face that just screamed Federal Agent. Harper looked up to her a lot. 

She chuckled and gave him a nod, “oh definitely. The girls have been gathering intel for her the last few times. But now it’s her night to get everything else.” 

He laughed, “can’t wait.” 

Upon entering the upstairs living area, Luca could already hear the muffled music and sounds of laughter, their big messy Vitali family. When Dorothea saw Luca and Harper she made a break for them, “Mama they’re there!” 

Harper scooped her up showering her in kisses, “hello hello little bug.” 

The tallest woman Luca has ever seen came from one of the bedrooms smiling at Harper and him, “it’s nice to finally meet you Dominique,” she reached out and shook his hand, squeezing a little more than necessary. 

“I’ve been looking forward to meeting you, I’ve heard nothing but great things from everyone.” 

She raised an eyebrow at that, glancing over at Harper before tugging him along in the hallway towards the living room, “I am happy to hear that, come let’s chat. Tell me, when you were stationed in the K-town street division, what community work did you do within the schools in the area? I couldn’t find a specific program your volunteer work was linked to, so I’m curious.” 

Luca shot a look over to Harper who gave him the three fingered Hunger Games salute and promptly went towards the kitchen to chat with Dio. Leaving him to fend for himself. He was prepared for Naomi’s probing, but she did her research, way more than he anticipated. Catching the smirk on her face, he knew he was in for an interesting night. And he smiled right back at her and dug in his heels, this woman was important to Harper, he was going to do everything he could to win her over as well.  

Above Dionysus - Later that evening

Harper POV

“That look on your face is quite telling Harper.” Naomi and Harper had taken up a post around the kitchen counter, drying dishes and getting away from the chaos of the living room. 

“What is it telling you?” Harper tried her best to school her face, but Naomi had always been able to see right through her. 

Naomi just raised an eyebrow and looked back to Dom being used as a living jungle gym for Dorothea and the twins. He was laughing at them trying to see who’d stay on the longest and found it hilarious when the older girls tried and failed to pull them off. 

“Should I be expecting grandchildren soon?” Naomi cut into her focus again and nudged Harper with her hip.

Harper rolled her eyes, “Dio would not be happy if I had a kid before I was married.”

The older woman scoffed, rolling her eyes, “don’t let him pretend to be a prude. The man is named after the god of wine and fertility. Do you really think we waited for the honeymoon?” 

That startled a full belly laugh out of Harper, this was not at all how she pictured this conversation going. Looking back up towards Dom and the girls, he was now doing push ups with the twins piled onto his back and Dorothea counting every time down came back up, Harper should really help her guy, but it had her thinking about it more and more. 

Naomi must have seen what she was staring at, and wrapped her arms around Harper, resting a chin on her shoulder. “So Harper? Are my observation skills correct?”

“Are they ever wrong?” 

She felt Naomi’s smile against her shoulder, “have you talked about it?” 

“Several times.” 

“And?” 

Dom’s Journal 

July 2

Spent night at Harper’s, though most of my things have seemed to migrate over to hers. Still find it hard to believe she gave me entry, key and passcode included. 

0600- went for a run this morning around the neighborhood. Waved hi to Marta and Rigoberta on their way to the corner store. Came home to shower and grab clothes before heading to work. 

This is where my day went wrong. 

I did not mean to eavesdrop. Street and I have bro code. He pretends not to hear me and Harper and I pretend to not hear him talking to some girl in the backyard. 

I BROKE BRO CODE

Why the hell would Street be talking to Chris at 0700 if not her spending the night? He would have told me- right? Saw her bike when I came up the street. Almost missed it, it being down the block away from the house. But I’d know that rocket anywhere. Is Operation Stris a thing? 

I couldn’t hear them too well. Without being obvious that I’m here. So I snuck back out the front before I got caught. I’ll just shower at HQ. 

July 2 

The Boys House

Street

Street had found solace in their little backyard. 

It was small, only fitting his and Lucas grill, a picnic table, and two lounge chairs that he had spent way over his budget on, but they got their use on early July mornings like this. Accompanied with only a book and his cheap shades, he took up his ‘spot’ in the backyard, Duke lounging lazily next to him, and continued where he’d left off more than a few days ago. 

The days were moving quickly, and it took him longer than he'd like to admit to realize why that was. Jim Street was actually happy. 

Not that he’d ever admit that. But he’d at least say he was content with where he was at in life. 29 years in the making, 

“What book do you have now?” 

In all honesty he shouldn’t be surprised by Chris’s visit, she did text him earlier asking where he was, but still, he’s man enough to admit he flinched a bit. “The Kite Runner - Harp thinks it’ll make me cry, but we’ll see. I'm not far.” 

Hearing shuffling and the creak of the chair next to his was noted faintly in the back of his head, but he was trying to focus on what was in front of him, even as he felt eyes on him. “Another recommendation?” 

He shrugged, “More like a forced recommendation, I can’t read the one I want until I read this.” 

“And you’re listening to her?” 

He smiled at that, Chris had a point, it’s very unlike him to listen to others opinions, for the most part, “yea I guess so.” 

There was a pause before she spoke up again, “what are you up to today?” 

“Was gonna do this, take Duke for a beach walk with Harper. Then work on the bike. Unless you have other ideas?” 

“Why are you going with Harper?” 

The tone of her question was sharp, for what he didn’t know. But he tried to ignore it for the time being. “Luca’s busy with academy prep and she asked if I wanted to go. You can come too if you want, we’ll probably grab food after.” Street gave her a sideways glance. 

Chris’s face did a complicated twist as she fidgeted in the chair, her one leg bouncing and hands held tightly together. “It’s not weird to you? Being close to your friend's girlfriend?” 

His eyebrows furrowed, as he fought back the hurt crossing his features, he moved his eyes back to the words in his book, even though he was the furthest away from paying attention to it. “Why would it be weird? It’s a different relationship Chris. But it’s good. It’s real.” 

“Do you like her?” 

“Ehh,” after a beat his eyebrows scrunched and he tore his eyes away from his book to actually look over at his- his friend, “wait- what are you asking?” 

Her eyes were hard and all of it was focused on him, “simple question Street. Do you like Harper in that way?” 

“What? No! Not like what you’re implying.” He closed the book and turned his full attention to Chris, sitting up in his chair so he was facing her, “no, it’s just… I didn’t have that growing up. She looks out for me, calls me out on my shit. She’s the sister I always wanted.” 

“I thought she annoyed you.” 

“Yeah she annoys the shit out of me. Still like her,” he was thinking that’d get at least a smirk out of her, but got nothing. 

Chris leaned back so they had some distance between them again. “You’ve been closer to Luca too recently-“ 

“Jesus, Chris, we LIVE together, what did you expect?” he ran a hand through his hair pulling at the ends. He needed to clear some things up, “we’re not… no, Chris. I don’t like either of them like that . They’re my friends and I do anything for them. But I’m not trying to get in between those two. Luca seems like the type to bite.” Again, the joke didn’t land with her. That humor usually got her keeling over in laughter by now. “What’s going on?” 

She muttered something under her breath that sounded close to forget it . And stood up to leave. 

Street quickly got up and reached for her, “wait Chris - I don’t understand what’s happening -“ 

“nothing. Forget it.” She snapped at him, heading towards the gate, “go spend time with Harper if she’s so important.”

“Chris. Wait. Chris!” He did grab for her this time, gently,  “Just talk to me. I’m not upset, I'm just confused at what you want. I’d rather us… stay as we are rather than cross a boundary again. But you have to tell me what’s up if this is going to work.” 

Her eyebrows creased, but she at least took her hand off the gate door and turned to face him again. 

“I understand that it’s what you needed Chris, we crossed a huge line, and we needed to reset, but it still hurt to have to go through. You’re still that amazing friend,” she shook her head clearly not believing him, but he kept pressing “you are, and I’m sorry I’m making you question that.” He sighed rubbing at his face, He didn’t know where to begin, “there was some fucked up stuff that happened with… just everything… and they helped me get through it. Supported my choices, helped me when they were the wrong ones.” 

“Why didn’t you tell me?” 

“It was… honestly it was why I wasn’t at the last get together. I was trying to figure some things out.” He shrugged, it’s when he found out his mom was missing her parole appointments and he was crushed. “But what’s going on Chris? You’re upset about something.” 

She clenched and unclenched her fists trying to steady herself before speaking, “I…” her voice cracked and she coughed to fix it, and made it worse, “I don’t know what to do Street.” She looked up at him, tears pooling in her eyes. 

“Chris…” he hugged her hard against his chest, she didn’t fight it, holding him tight as well. “Come on, let’s go inside and talk.” 

Whipping furiously at her eyes she chuckled, even if it came out a little hoarse, he could still hear the smile in her voice, “Only if you put a shirt on.” 

He scoffed, “you’re no fun.” He waited for her to pull away before letting go. And lead her inside the house to their living room. He sat on the couch and waited for her to sit as well. 

She stayed standing, but paced the space in front of their TV, “I love Kira.” Street just nodded for her to continue, “I love her. I don’t… I like Ty less. I honestly don’t know if I love him.” 

He sat back in the chair, eyebrows raised.,“Oh.” He let out a breath he didn’t realize he was holding, “Shit Chris.” 

“Yea.” 

“That complicates things. A lot.” 

She let out a heartless laugh, shaking her head, “That’s all you’ve got?” 

He scrubbed a hand down his face, “Chris, I’m going to be honest, I didn’t know what was up, but this was out of left field. So a while back when you made that off hand comment about the balancing this is what you were referring to?” 

“Yea. And what’s worse is that Ty called me out on it- kind of.” 

“Kind of?” he prodded. 

“He didn’t like how much time I was spending with Kira.” 

“But Kira ‘s your girlfriend too! Is he jealous?” 

The pacing started up again, “I don’t know Street. That’s- one of the things that’s bothering me. We weren’t even doing something he'd even like to help with. It just… and also Kira just has more time to spend as a couple, and she’s been spending it with me.”

Silence filled the room, Chris turned towards him again, “am I being irrational??”

Street immediately shook his head, “God no. I- fuck.” He ran his hand through his hair again, he had no idea what to think of this. 

“I don’t know what to do Street.”

He also had no fucking clue what to do. He sighed and leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees. “Perfect world, what would you like to happen?”

Chris shook her head, “That’s-”

“No, Chris. Come on.” He patted the couch next to him and she finally sat down.  

She was silent for a while, leg bouncing, “I.. Kira breaking off her engagement with Ty, and date, just be the two of us.”

Street nodded, “ok. How would you do that?”

Chris snorted, shaking her head again, “Obviously she’d pick Ty. She loves him enough to be getting married to him right? And also I’m starting to feel like the other woman here trying to get her to leave her fiance.” 

“Right…” sighing, he’d been doing that a lot today, “you think she feels what you feel though, right? Like you’re both feeling this deeper thing than you do with Ty.”

She quirked her head to the side thinking, “I mean I think so. It- it just feels so easy with her right? Like no effort, it’s just there . You know?” He just nodded along for her to continue. And she struggled to find words that encapsulated all she was feeling in the moment. “I just… I don’t want anyone to be hurt in this.”

“You’re currently the one hurting.”

Chris shook her head, “I’m no-”

He cut her off again, “You are. This is hurting you right now. Keeping all this in.”

She turned away from him, and he could tell this was getting to her a lot more than she wanted to let on. When she finally faced him again, her eyes were wet, “When did Jim street get so wise?”

Street chuckled, “Got hooked up with a good Therapist.”

Chris laughed, but it sounded wet, “Yea? She taking new clients? I can pay her with free tacos from the truck.”

Street smiled, patting her shoulder, “It’s actually not Harper. Wendy recommended someone. Cool dude. I can hook you up if you’re serious. He has a Wendy style approach. It’s nice.” He looked at his phone to check the time, “it’s almost time to head to her house. You in? I think you could use some friend time but I won’t push it. 

She sniffed, “Yea… yea I think I will.” 

Late July 

Pool Party at Deacon’s 

Jess 

It had been too long since the whole team got together like this. There was always something that stopped it from happening, but with the newest addition to the Kay family joining them early next year, they thought it was the perfect time to host a baby shower/pool party/’whatever’ get together. People brought gifts, dishes to pass around, and entertainment for all the littles and not-so-littles of their family. Jessica had even brought Amy along, knowing her sister needed a break, the same reason Harper brought Rocky and Jack. 

The party had mostly migrated to the pool, the kids all trying to see who could make the biggest cannonball splash. Street, Tan, and Hondo being the judges. Jess had made her way back into the kitchen to bring out the second bowl of antipasti and cut up fruit when Harper cornered her in the kitchen.  

“ Jessica Cortez .” Harper whispered in shock. 

Jess knew that face, and had a ball of dread sitting low in her stomach, “what? What’s up? Oh god I don’t like that face.”

“Hondo?” Harper asserted more than questioned. 

“What about him?” Ah yes Jessica, playing dumb has always worked out well for you. Not ever. 

“It was him! He’s hot cop” Harper poked at Jessica’s arm, still whispering but more sure of herself now based on Jess’s reaction. 

Still, Jess shook her hear, “N-no-”

Harper shook her head still smiling that devil smile, “You lying liar. Yes it was. Oh my god Jessica.”

She clamped a hand over Harper’s mouth, “Keep your voice down!” Harper licked her palm and Jess yanked her hand away even as Harper giggled, she chose to point at her friend instead, “Harper, stop. This cannot get out. You know that.”

She got serious, finally, “I know- holy shit Jess I know . But oh my god !” She bounced on her toes holding Jess’s arms, “How can I not freak out at figuring out the mystery man’s identity? And that he’s actually a hot cop. I thought you made up the handcuff story oh my gooodd.” She started fanning herself leaning against the counter. 

“shut the fuck up,“ Jessica hissed jabbing Harper in the arm, god, she act’s like she’s 17 and not approaching mid 30s more times than not. 

Harper smiled rolling her eyes but miming a zipped lip, “Ok. Ok I’m calm. I promise. I’m calm. You know I won’t tell anyone.”

“Not even Luca.” Jess felt the need to clarify.  

She scoffed, “Obviously never. That’s against girl code. He understands.”

Pool Party

Street

After the epic water gun battle where the SWAT teams was defeated by the 10 children gathered at the party, Street found himself gravitating naturally towards Chris. It’d been a week or so since she had moved out of the Boy’s house (™), and almost a month since she ghosted Ty and Kira. And he knew she was still hurting from it. 

“Hey- how are things going?” 

Chris sighed but shrugged all the same, “moved into Uncle Sarzo’s garage. It’ll do for now.” 

He nodded, “you could’ve stayed-“

“Oh hell no. Trust. I love you and Luca butttt…”

“Hey we keep it clean!” He held a hand to his chest in mock defense even as he smiled and shoulder checked Chris. 

She snorted, shaking her head, “it’s very much a bachelor pad.” 

“So? At least one of us is still a bachelor, unlike someone.” He made eyes in the general direction of Luca and Harper, who were currently cuddled up on one of the deck chairs. 

She fake gagged before it turned into a laugh, “when are they getting married?” 

Street groaned, she had no fucking idea how bad it was before she moved in, “Jesus, I hope soon cause I’m tired of hearing about it.” 

“Why haven’t we started a betting pool again?”

“‘cause Luca always finds out about them, then the data is skewed.” 

Tan, Deacon, and Hondo joined in with the two of them, Hondo slinging an arm around Chris, “do we happen to be discussing the love birds?” 

“And if we are?” Street smiled, not so innocently. 

Deacon shrugged, playing nonchalant, “a little birdy told me he’s already bought a ring.” 

Tan’s head whipped to Hondo, “dude no way-” 

Tan was interrupted by Luca’s yelling. “Street!”

Street (and in turn, all of them) turned to face the two still over on the deck chair, “what?”

Harper was sitting up more, but still very much in Luca’s arms, “pick a number: 5 or 7”

He didn’t even have to think that hard, “7”

“YES!” Luca whooped, wrapping his arms tightly around Harper again. Whatever he was answering, Luca looked like he won whatever discussion they were having. Harper didn’t look mad per se, more annoyed that her answer “lost” but still held a small smile for Lucas cheering.  

“JAMES!” Harper yelled in that mom voice she swears she doesn’t have but Street and everyone else fully agrees she has. 

He held up his arms in confusion, “What?! You’re the one that told me to pick!”

Harper scoffed, leaning towards him again, “why seven?”

“It’s a lucky number!”

“Ha!” Luca cheered again, fists pumping in the air. 

“What do you think that’s all about?” Deacon asked 

“God only knows with those two.”