Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Trent can’t really believe that Richmond finally won against Everton after a losing streak of 60 years. And with Ted Lasso , of all people, as manager.

He meant what he wrote about rooting for the man. But he also meant what he wrote about genuinely believing he would fail. For once, it’s actually nice to have been wrong.

Given the historical win, he figured a little bit of extra time wouldn’t be uncalled for. Meaning that he’s staking out the hotel lobby hoping for a quote to add to his already mostly finished article. If pressed, he might even admit that he’s hoping for an opportunity to congratulate Coach Lasso in person. Thankfully, no one has pressed him.

And it’s not like he’s being creepy, okay? He just happens to be staying at the same hotel. And he just happens to be reading in the lobby before he goes up to his room. And if a Richmond player (or maybe a coach) happens to walk by on their way upstairs, then he’d be remiss not to ask for a quick quote.

Nothing unsavory. 

He’s been waiting in the lobby for a couple hours and has started to contemplate giving up on the whole thing when the man himself walks in.

“Coach Lasso!” He calls, springing to his feet. But, as he approaches Lasso, it becomes abundantly clear that something is wrong. He instantly gives up on the quote. “Are you okay?” He asks instead.

“Trent Crimm.” Lasso responds with possibly the fakest smile Trent has ever seen. Trent waits for him to follow it up, but he doesn’t say anything else.

“The Independent.” Trent finishes for him, his concern growing. “Are you okay?” He asks again.

Lasso looks down. “I’m afraid I don’t have a comment for readers today, Trent.”

Trent follows his gaze and settles on the open notebook in his hand. “Fuck. No.” He puts the notebook away. “Off the record, Ted.”

“Off the record?” Ted raises an eyebrow.

Trent studies his face for a moment before making a decision. “Listen, you look like you could use a friendly ear, yeah? I understand if you don’t trust me, of course. But I’m offering.”

Ted gives him a small but sincere smile. “I appreciate that, Trent.”

“Tell you what, let me buy you a drink.” He points to the bar. “And feel free to lie the whole time, so you know I can’t publish anything you say.”

Ted smiles just a little bit brighter. “I might just take you up on that, Mr. Crimm.” 

Trent leads him to the bar and finds them a table before walking up to the counter and ordering two glasses of scotch. 

“You know I have six toes?” Ted says when Trent returns with the drinks. Trent rolls his eyes. “But only on my left foot. Makes it real hard to balance, let me tell you. This one time I was running away from a Werewolf and–”

“I get it.” Trent’s laughing freely. “Six toes.” He shakes his head fondly. “I should have known better than telling you to lie.”

“It could be true, you know.” Ted laughs over the rim of his glass. “Happens all the time.”

“I’m sure it does.” Trent takes a sip of his drink, composing himself again. “Are you alright, Ted?”

Ted’s silent for a few moments, staring at his drink. “Are you married, Trent?” 

It could be just a Ted Lasso non-sequitur, but Trent has the feeling that this is the real deal. His heart goes out to the man in front of him.

“Not anymore.” He answers truthfully.

Ted looks up at him. “I’m sorry to hear that.”

“Don’t be.” Trent shrugs. 

“Oh. I’m… Happy for you?”

Trent snorts softly. “Thank you, Ted.”

Ted takes a long sip of his drink before saying “I don’t think I’ll be married for much longer either.”

“I’m sorry to hear that.” 

Ted raises an eyebrow. “Not happy for me?”

Trent shakes his head. “I have a feeling that our situations are not quite the same.”

“How so?”

Trent takes only a second to make his choice. Normally, he’d not disclose his sexuality to the manager of the team he’s covering, that’s just asking for trouble. But… It’s Ted Lasso. He can’t imagine the man being anything other than accepting. Not to mention that, if he’s going to ask Ted about whatever it is that’s plaguing him tonight, a bit of honesty is probably the way to go.

“My marriage ended because I told my wife I was attracted to men.”

“She left you for that?” Ted’s eyes have grown huge. “That’s awful, Trent. I’m real sorry.”

Trent stares blankly at him for a long moment. “Exclusively to men.” He amends slowly. “Ted, I’m gay.” He adds for good measure.

“Oh.” Ted leans back. “Yeah, no. I can see why your wife would take issue with that, actually.”

“So can I.” Trent chuckles. “I take it that’s not your situation?”

“No, sir. Michelle never said a word about me being attracted to men.” Trent blinks at this revelation, but Ted doesn’t seem to notice. “Although I think being attracted to women as well makes some difference there.”

“That would make all the difference, yes.”

“No. She just… Isn’t happy anymore.” Ted swallows the last of his drink in one go. “I gotta let her go.”

“I’m sorry, Ted.” Trent doesn’t really know anything else he can say about that, so he points at Ted’s empty glass. “Can I get you another one?”

Ted’s silent for a moment. “I shouldn’t.”

“Of course.”

“I got the papers upstairs.” Ted says abruptly. “Michelle has been on me to sign them already. But it’s… Hard.”

“It’s always hard to say goodbye.” Trent cringes at his own empty platitude, but he’s out of his depth. What was he thinking when he started this conversation? “Is there  anything I can do to help?” He asks finally. 

“Can you come up with me?” Trent’s taken by surprise, his eyebrows furrowing. “Maybe it’s not as hard if I’m not alone.” Ted explains.

Trent nods and stands up. “Lead the way.”

He follows Ted up to his room and stands awkwardly by the door once he lets them in.

“You want a drink?” Ted offers.

“I shouldn't,” Trent echoes.

“I should just do this then, right?” Ted sits down at the desk where Trent can see the papers already opened to the signing page. “Just sign my name. Nothing to it. I’ve done it a thousand times. You know, I used to only sign my name with this—”

Trent rests his hand on Ted’s back and feels the man relax with a deep breath, the rambling dying at his mouth as he picks up the pen. He waits patiently as Ted signs the papers and takes a picture of them on his phone. As Ted looks up at himself in the mirror, Trent squeezes his shoulder and pulls his hand away.

Ted catches his eyes through the mirror and gives him a sad smile. Trent’s heart breaks a little.

“Can I give you a hug?” He asks. It’s what he’d have wanted in this situation, he thinks.

Ted stands up and hugs him in no time. A real bear hug and a little clingy to boot. Trent feels himself melt into it. But this isn’t about him, so he tries to give as good as he gets.

“Thank you, Trent.” Ted says into his neck.

“I didn’t do anything.” 

“Now, we both know that’s just not true.” Ted gives him a squeeze before letting him go.

When Ted pulls away, Trent has no idea what to do. This whole interaction has been an exercise in improvisation and he’s never been any good at improvisation. He glances at the door.

“I should–”

“Stay?” Ted offers a tad desperately.

Trent cocks his head, not knowing what to make of the invitation. He doesn’t think Ted’s coming on to him, but loneliness makes people do stupid things. He should know.

“Nothing funny!” Ted is quick to reassure. “Would you like to stay and watch cartoons with me?” He asks sheepishly. “I realize it’s a weird offer and, now that I think about it, we don’t really not each other all that well and I have imposed on you enough tonight so I understand if—”

“Yes.” Trent interrupts him, placing a hand on his arm. “I’d love to stay and watch cartoons. It’s no imposition, Ted.”

Ted leads them to the bed where they sit up against the headboard with a respectable foot of space between them. Ted opens some hotel TV streaming service and starts browsing around.

“I like that one.” Trent points out when Ted stops on Bluey . Ted gives him a quizzical look. “I have a soon-to-be-3-year-old at home,” Trent explains, “I know what cartoons are the least annoying to parents.”

Ted smiles brightly at him before pressing play on the show and asking Trent about his daughter.

They talk about Beatriz and Henry and cartoons and birthday parties. By the time the first episode is over, Ted’s resting his head comfortably on Trent’s shoulder and Trent has his arm around Ted’s back. He’s not entirely sure how this happened, but he’s certainly not complaining.

Trent’s gently dozing off by the third episode. Sometime after that, he hears a knock on the door. His eyes snap open in a near panic.

“Hey, don’t you worry.” Ted says quietly before getting out of bed. “It’s probably just Beard checking up on me. I won’t tell anyone you’re here, okay?”

Trent nods slowly and lets his eyes slip closed again. Without Ted to keep him upright, he slides down the bed before he notices.

There are voices at the door, but they’re so very far away, Trent can’t make out what they’re saying.

He’s asleep before Ted returns.

Chapter Text

Ted wakes up to the morning light. His pillow is deliciously warm, so he snuggles closer to it and closes his eyes to try and sleep some more.

The pillow sighs happily.

Oh.

Not a pillow, apparently. A person.

But not Michelle, that’s over now. He signed the papers yesterday. With… Trent!

He’s asleep on Trent Crimm (The Independent). Well, he was . Now he’s just awake with his head resting very comfortably on Trent’s chest and an arm thrown over his waist. And, judging by the previous sigh, he’s not the only one who’s no longer sleeping. 

“Good morning, Lisa Loring.” He says quietly, without moving an inch.

“Good morning, Ted.” Trent sounds a little spooked, but he’s made no move to unwrap the arm he has around Ted’s back, so it’s probably okay. Trent hasn’t moved away, so neither will he. He can play cuddle chicken, he’s good at it even.

“What time is it?”

Trent reaches for his phone with his free arm and reads out the time. “6:48”

“I should get up soon,” Ted says ruefully, “team bus leaves at 9:00. You can go back to sleep, though, I can get you a late check out.”

“That’s really generous, Ted.” Trent sounds more at ease now. Good. “But I actually wanted to leave by 9:00 as well. I’m taking Bea shopping for a birthday outfit this afternoon and—” Trent cut’s himself off with a sigh. “Ted. Is the whole team on this floor as well?”

“Yes, sir.” He says automatically, before realizing why that’s relevant. “Oh. You can’t get out of the room, can you?”

“Probably best if I’m not seen leaving your hotel room in the morning, yes.” Trent brings his phone up again. “I should tell Carol I might be late for pick up.” 

“No, you don’t.” Ted takes the phone from his hand and sets it down on the bed.

“Ted—”

“No, you don’t.” He repeats. “Here’s what we’re gonna do instead: I’m gonna call down for breakfast and we’re gonna eat up here where no one can see you. Then you’re gonna get ready to go as I herd the boys and I’ll let you know when you’re good to go. You’ll be out of this room before 9AM and that’s a Ted Lasso guarantee.”

He hears Trent take in a relieved breath before tightening his hold on him. 

“Thank you, Ted.”

Ted smiles to himself. “It’s my pleasure.” 

He allows himself to bask in their closeness for another few moments before sitting up and reaching for the phone. He orders enough food for two and turns around to where Trent’s now sitting up against the headboard. Before he can double guess himself, he pulls his knees up and cuddles up to Trent’s side again.

He almost falls over when Trent leans forward, but Trent quickly leans back again and brings his arm around Ted, so he can rest his head on Trent’s shoulder.

“You actually do have six toes on your left foot.” Trent chuckles.

Ted smirks. “Did you think I was lying?”

“You were talking about werewolves, Ted.” Ted can hear the eyeroll in his voice.

“Halloween of ‘83.” Ted explains. “That little rascal Tony Brown chased me for 3 blocks before I tripped over my own feet and then he stole all my candy.”

“He sounds like a little shit.”

Ted hums, it’s not untrue. “You said it.”

Ted’s mind wanders back to little Tony. He’s a teacher now, Ted thinks. What was it? P.E.? Those poor kids. Then again, it’s been over 30 years. One would hope their childhood bullies aren’t bullies anymore—

“How are you today, Ted?” 

Ted’s brought back to the present by Trent’s concerned eyes looking at him. He takes stock of himself. 

“Better.” He says finally. “I appreciate you staying with me last night, Trent.” He takes Trent’s free hand and gives it a squeeze. “Thank you.”

“No need to thank me.” Trent squeezes his hand back. “I’m glad I came up here. And I actually had fun. With the cartoons, at least.”

“That was fun.” Ted agrees. “I’ll have to finish that show when—”

There’s a knock at the door and Ted gets up to collect their breakfast. They eat in bed, chatting easily about Bluey and other cartoons.

After breakfast, Ted gets up to change and pack his stuff. By 7:50 he’s ready to go, so he sits down on the edge of the bed and hands Trent his phone.

“I’ll text you when everyone’s on the bus, okay?”

“Thank you, Ted.” Trent gives him a small smile before typing in his number. “By the way,” he says as he returns the phone, “congratulations on the win. I never got the chance to tell you last night.”

Ted can’t help his smile. “Thanks, Trent.” Then he squares his shoulder and brings out his cheery press voice. “It’s always a good day when the boys’ efforts pay off and a win like yesterday’s? There ain’t no feeling like it. But I gotta say, that was all Nate the Great, he gave a killer pre-match talk. Kid’s going places, I tell you.”

He can see the journalist interest building up on Trent’s face, but he visibly shakes it away. “I wasn’t fishing for a quote, you know.”

“I know.” Ted winks at him. “That was a freebie.”

“While I appreciate it,” Trent chuckles, shaking his head, “I’m not in the habit of taking quotes from sources while I’m still in their bed.”

“Fair enough.” Ted laughs. “You can ask all those follow up questions the next time we meet, then.”

Trent smirks. “I’ll write them down.”

Ted loses himself looking at Trent for a few long moments before breaking out of it and pulling him into a hug.

“Thank you, Trent.” He says into that glorious hair.

Trent tuts. “We’ve had this conversation already.” 

“I meant for letting me have the last piece of bacon.” He lies, making Trent laugh.

“You’re welcome, Ted.”

He pulls away and takes in the look on Trent's face. Suddenly, Ted’s taken by a strange urge to kiss him. He blinks and it’s gone. 

“Goodbye, Trent.” He says at last. “I’ll see you around.”

“Goodbye, Ted.”

By 8:45, the bus is full and everyone accounted for. Ted pulls out his phone to text Trent.

Coast is clears, Britney Spears.

  I’ll run out of this room like it’s Toxic, shall I?

I’m sorry you have to sneak out like a Crimminal.

All part of the fun.

Thank you again for getting them out of the way.

‘Twas the least I could do.

Ted’s smiling goofily to himself as he puts the phone away.

Later that day, Ted’s zoning out while leaning back on his chair with his feet up on the desk.

“You okay there, coach?” Beard startles him out of his thoughts.

“Fine and dandy, coach.” He answers without opening his eyes. “Why do you ask?”

“You’re awful quiet, you know.” Beard explains, soundly vaguely concerned. “And don’t think I didn’t see you smiling at your phone this morning. That wasn’t your Henry smile. Have you been talking to Michelle again?”

Ted sits up to look at Beard, which is when he notices Higgins and Nate are at the office as well.

“Did you call reinforcements because you thought I was talking to Michelle?” He teases, but Beard only shrugs. “It wasn’t her. I signed the papers last night.”

“And you’re not freaking out.” Beard narrows his eyes.

Ted shrugs. “I had a good night.”

“With the person you were texting.” It’s not a question. Beard can read him too well to need to ask.

“Maybe.” Ted concedes. Then he’s hit by doubt like he hadn’t been yet. “Is that weird? That I got divorced and immediately spent the night with someone else? We didn’t even do anything, we fell asleep watching cartoons.” He frowns. “I can’t tell if that makes it more or less weird.”

“It’s not weird, Ted.” Higgins reassures. “You needed comfort, that’s only natural.” 

“Right.” Ted points at him and nods. “And if I kinda wanted to kiss him this morning that’s… Not a big deal, right?”

The others engage in a brief staring contest that ends with Beard shrugging, Higgins nodding in understanding and Nate asking “is this a sexuality crisis?” Into the bin he’s been holding in case he pukes. He does not look well.

“Nah.” Ted waves the question away. “I haven’t had one of those since Gary Martin kissed me the summer before my sophomore year. Side note: a stable? Not the ideal setting for a first kiss.” He wrinkles his nose. “I can still smell it.”

“It’s not a big deal, coach.” Beard brings them back to the topic at hand. “Unless you want it to be. Are you seeing him again?”

“Not romantically.” Ted shakes his head. “I don’t think I’m ready for that just yet.”

“That’s not a big deal either.” Higgins says softly. “You’re ready when you’re ready, Ted.” 

“I must say, this is lovely.” Nate cuts in dreamily. Or maybe he’s too sick to filter what he says. “Ever since I was little I always used to dream about sitting down with a bunch of mates talking about the complex dynamics of human relationships.” 

Ted wiggles his head in consideration, but ends up shrugging. “I’ll make us T-Shirts.”

And so the Diamond Dogs are born.

Chapter Text

Since the Everton game a week ago, Trent has been trying to keep things separate in his head: Coach Lasso is the subject of his articles and Ted is the man who needed someone to hold him after getting a divorce. Unfortunately, whenever the man opens his mouth both worlds collide. It’s making it very difficult for Trent to do his job, but he’s nothing if not a professional.

At the next Richmond press conference, Trent asks Coach Lasso about Nathan Shelley’s role within the team and Ted smiles knowingly at him before singing Nate the Great’s praises. 

Afterwards, Trent sticks around the press room a little longer to try and talk to Ted. He could have texted him, but he didn’t know what to say. Not that this is any better, of course. 

“Howdy, Trent.” 

Trent’s head snaps up from where he’s gotten lost on his notes to find Ted leaning against the doorway with his hands in his pockets. He hadn’t noticed that everyone else had already left. 

“Hello, Ted.” He smiles and puts his notebook away.

“Did you have more questions for me?” Ted cocks his head curiously.

Trent shakes his head. “Only those of the personal variety, if that’s okay.”

“Off the record?” Ted asks cheekily. “Ask me anything you want.” He nods towards the exit. “C’mon, I’ll walk you to your car.”

Trent follows Ted out of the room, so they’re walking side by side down the hallway. He turns his head to study the other man’s profile. 

“How are you doing, Ted?” He asks softly.

“Fine as rain, Trenty Train.” Ted sounds sincere, if overly cheery.

“Can’t say I’ve been called that before.” Trent remarks.

“Wouldn’t want you to get bored, now, would I?.” Ted teases, before asking more seriously. “How are you?”

“Oh, you know.” Trent gives a put-upon sigh. “Sleep deprived, exhausted.” He does a dramatic pause before finishing. “Happy.”

Ted chuckles. “The joys of parenthood.”

“Indeed.”

“How’s the party coming along?”

“Can you believe Carol wants us to bake the cake ourselves?” Trent’s still bitter about that. “This kind of stuff is why we’re divorced.”

“You don’t like baking?” Ted sounds surprised. 

“It’s just a lot of work, you know?” He makes a face. “Especially for a birthday cake.”

Ted hums noncommittally, causing Trent to narrow his eyes at him.

“You bake?”

Ted turns to give him an enigmatic smirk. “Now, that would be telling.”

They’ve reached Trent’s car now, he feels the awkwardness grow as he fiddles with his keys.

“Listen, I wanted to tell you.” He forces himself to meet Ted’s eyes. “You still have my number, right? Call me if you need anything?”

“Yeah, of course.” Ted smiles softly, reaching out to place a hand on Trent’s arm. “But phones work both ways, you know?”

Trent nods, his lips curling on a small smile as well. “I’ll keep that in mind.”

“Coach!” He and Ted are both startled by Coach Beard calling from the club house door.

“Ah. Duty calls. ” Ted squeezes his arm before letting go. “See you later, alligator.” He turns to walk away.

“In a while, crocodile.” Trent replies mindlessly.

Ted turns on the spot, an ecstatic look on his face, but seems to change his mind halfway through, so he ends up spinning the full 360 degrees. He raises his arm victoriously as he walks away, like he’s in The Breakfast Club.

Trent and Carol get together to work on Bea’s cake the morning before her birthday. It hasn’t collapsed yet, so he’s feeling pretty good about it. 

Trent’s opening the butter for the purple buttercream frosting when his phone pings.

“Since when do you text Ted Lasso?” Carol asks from across the kitchen.

“I don’t.” He responds automatically before realizing what just happened. “Wait, was that from him?”

“3 new texts from Ted Lasso.” She tuts. “You’ve been holding out on me, Tren.”

Trent quickly washes his hands so he can check his new messages.

Can you hang around for a little bit after the press conference tonight?

I’ve got something for you.

Well, it’s for Bea. But I need a messenger.

“He has something for Bea.” Trent explains as he types out his response.

Curiouser and curiouser.

I’ll wait in the press room.

Carol raises an eyebrow. “Does he even know Bea?”

“He does not.” Trent smiles to himself as he goes back to putting the ingredients together.

“But he knows it’s her birthday?”

“He does.” Trent turns on the mixer.

“ Tren.” She raises her voice over the noise. “What happened with you two?”

Trent sighs and turns to face her again. “I might have told him about my personal life.”

“Obviously.” She rolls her eyes.

“In Liverpool.” He explains “He was in a bad place emotionally and I just happened to be there. We connected.” He pauses for a moment before adding casually. “I fell asleep on his bed.”

“You slept with him!?” She squeals.

“That’s not what I said!” Trent defends. “There was no sex. We just slept on the same bed. We were watching Bluey, for fuck’s sake.”

“Trent.” She glares at him, but there’s no heat behind it. “You left me for this man, why was there no sex?”

“First of all, I did not leave you for him.” Trent’s quick to correct her. “I was gay before I met him, I just didn’t have the guts to tell you. You know that, Kay. And second of all, he was in a bad place emotionally. He literally signed his divorce that night. I’m not gonna make a move. We’re friends.”

Her accusing tone gives way to something more concerned. “And you’re okay with that?”

“I am.” He says sincerely. “He got Bea a birthday present, apparently. He’s a good friend. I’m lucky to have him.”

She studies him doubtfully before shrugging. “Whatever you say, Tren.”

“Funny story,” Ted drops down on the seat next to Trent’s at the empty press room, “I gave away Bea’s gift.”

“Now, that’s just rude. She’s expecting it now, you know.” He watches delightedly as Ted’s eyes grow huge. He gives it a few moments before nudging Ted’s shoulder. “I’m messing with you, Ted. She has no idea. It’s fine.”

“I have a backup at home,” Ted says anyway, “I can bring it to you tonight. Or tomorrow. Whatever works for you.”

“You really don’t have to do that, Ted. She’s spoiled rotten as it is.”

“I want to.” Ted looks eagerly at him. How’s this man even real? “And it’s no trouble, really. The cookies are already baked, I just need to give them to you.”

“So you do bake.” Trent smirks.

“I like it.” Ted leans back on his chair. “It’s just following the recipe, you know? Everything makes sense and you don’t need to think about it too hard. And at the end you get a treat! Plus, you can share it with your friends. It’s a win-win-win if I’ve ever seen one.”

“When you put it like that, I can certainly see why you would like it.”

Ted shrugs. “It’s not for everyone. So, can I drop Bea’s beautiful birthday biscuits by your place tonight?”

“Sure.” Trent responds before he can double guess himself. “I’ll text you the address.”

“Thanks, Trent.” Ted squeezes his knee before standing up to leave.

Wait. Why’s Ted thanking him for allowing Ted to give Bea a birthday gift? 

“Ted.” Trent calls out when Ted’s at the door. “Did you give away my daughter’s birthday biscuits so I’d invite you over to my house?”

Ted smiles and leaves the room.

Chapter Text

Ted got on a plane to Kansas the minute the season was over. He’s proud of the work he’s doing at Richmond, despite the result, but he misses Henry terribly. 

Now that he’s here, though, he feels more alone than ever. Most days, he gets to hang out with Henry and he wouldn’t change that for the world. But, come night, he can’t sleep.

Maybe it’s the house. Sleeping in his childhood home is definitely messing him up, especially with the memories of what happened here. But when Michelle offered him the guest bedroom he knew instantly that it wasn’t an option at all. Next time he’ll stay at a hotel, he decides. Or, better yet, an AirBnb with an extra room for Henry.

It’s currently 1AM and he can’t fall asleep to save his life. Usually, he’d get up and bake something, but he’s a guest here and it’d be rude to wake up his mom with his insomnia. He does the mental math to figure out its 7AM in London before he remembers that Beard’s unreachable for the week on a deep jungle camping trip with Jane. He could try Rebecca, but she’d skin him alive for calling before 9. 

Well, we can always try…

You up?

You do realize that’s universally accepted as a booty call invitation, right?

Now, why would people just assume that?

Can’t I ask a friend if he is available before starting a conversation?

You can.

You just can’t ask it like that.

Are you available, Trent?

Yes

Can I call you?

He smiles when the phone rings in his hand.

“Trent Crimm of the Independent!” He answers cheerfully.

Trent chuckles. “When you call me before I’ve had my breakfast it’s just ‘Trent’, Ted.”

“Howdy, Trent.”

“Hi, Ted. Are you okay?” Trent sounds concerned, which yeah, that’s fair. Ted appreciates his concern, truely, but he really wishes it wasn’t called for.

“Fine as a Summer’s day, Micheal Bay.” He keeps up the cheery attitude.

“More like a Summer’s night.” Trent observes. “Isn’t it witching hour over there?”

“Don’t let Coach Beard hear you say that.” Ted lies down on his back, staring at the ceiling. “He’s adamant that witching hour is at 3AM, it’s not even 2 right now.”

“Do you usually call your friends at 2 in the morning?” Trent asks curiously.

“I have to say I haven’t done this in a while.” Ted thinks back. “It’s always a gamble calling Coach Beard in the middle of the night. Especially at witching hour! Some things I’m better off not knowing, you know?”

“Did something happen tonight, then?” Trent guesses. “Or am I just special?”

“Of course you are special, Trent Crimm.” Ted huffs. “What a silly question.”

“Ted.” Trent says softly. “Why did you call me?”

Why did he call Trent? He’s not entirely sure, to be honest. Because he couldn’t take being alone any more? Or it could be because this twin bed with superman sheets is giving him the creeps. Maybe it’s because he misses Richmond.

“Something occurred to me.” He says instead of any of that.

“Oh?”

“Yeah. I never asked you how you are doing.” This actually did occur to him a couple of days ago, on another sleepless night.

Trent lets out a confused sound. “You ask me how I am every time we talk.”

“No, I mean when we met in Liverpool.” Ted clarifies. “Bea wasn’t even 3 yet, so you couldn’t have been divorced for that long and I never asked how you felt about that. I was so caught up on my own stuff.”

“It was a big night for you, Ted, of course you got caught up.”

That might be true, but Ted’s never been one to take kindness from others and give nothing in return.

“How are you, Trent?” He asks.

Trent doesn’t answer immediately, so Ted just listens to his breathing. It’s comforting in its own way. “Do you really want to hear the gory details of my divorce?” He asks uncertainly.

“I’d love nothing more.” He smiles to himself.

Trent takes a deep breath before speaking. “When did you first realize you were attracted to men?”

“Ah.” Ted nods in understanding despite knowing that Trent can’t see him. “Summer of ‘91. His name was Gary Martin and when he kissed me I knew I could happily spend the rest of my life with another boy.”

“You never questioned it?” He can hear Trent moving around. Maybe he’s lying down as well.

“What’s to question?” He shrugs. “I knew what I felt.”

“Oh, wow.” Trent exhales. “I wish I had that. I was in denial for so long , Ted. I didn’t want it to be true, so I just pretended it wasn’t. I tried so hard to like women. I just wanted to be normal, you know? I got married despite not really feeling any attraction. I love Carol, don’t get me wrong. But deep down I always knew it wasn’t quite what I was making it out to be. You know what I told her on our wedding day?”

“What did you tell her?” Ted asks quietly, not wanting to disturb this moment.

“I said I couldn’t do it. It was the first time I came out to her. To anyone, really. But she didn’t believe it, not that I blame her, she shrugged it off as cold feet.”

Ted distantly regrets starting this conversation over the phone, rather than being able to give Trent a hug. Mostly, though, he’s just glad that Trent’s letting him in at all.

“I’m sorry that happened to you, Trent.” 

“Yeah.” Trent seems to get lost in thought before asking suddenly. “You wanna know what’s crazy, though?”

“What?” Ted asks dutifully.

“You remember when I wrote that profile on you? When we went to your friend’s family’s Indian place.”

“Yeah, of course.” Ted smiles at the memory. “You bailed and left me to eat that spicy poison by myself.”

“I got home that night and came out to Carol again. I must have been more convincing, because this time she actually believed me.”

Ted forgets how to breathe for a moment. He got so invested in Trent's story, but he never imagined that he might feature in it himself.

“Trent.” He murmurs quietly. “What changed?”

“I mean, it was a long time coming.” Trent says in a slightly forced casual tone. “But the tipping point? It was you, Ted. You were so fucking inspiring. The whole country was waiting for you to fail and you didn’t falter for one second. How could I go back to living my lie after that?”

“Gosh, Trent.” Ted breathes out.

“You asked.” He can picture Trent shrugging.

“Well,” Ted lets out a quiet laugh, “I wasn’t expecting this .”

There’s silence at the other end of the line. “Is it okay?” Trent asks finally.

“Yeah. Gosh.” He needs to pull himself together, the last thing he wants to do is to spook Trent. “Of course it’s okay, Trent. Thank you for telling me.”

Trent lets out a relieved sigh. “Thank you for asking.”

Ted smiles to himself. “That wasn’t an answer to my question, though.”

“What was the question?”

“How are you, Trent?” He repeats.

Trent chuckles quietly. “I’m doing really well, Ted. I hadn’t realized how much that secret was suffocating me, all that time. I feel like I can breathe now.” He makes a pause before continuing more sadly. “And it’s hard too, like I’m just now hitting puberty. But it’s worth it.”

Ted is silent for a long time as he takes that in. Their situations are as different as can be, but something about Trent’s story hits so close to home. “I think I can breathe now too.” He says finally.

“Yeah?” Trent asks in a small voice.

“I was trying so hard to keep us together towards the end.” Ted turns on his side, curling up around himself. His voice comes out as a little more than a whisper. “Like pushing a boulder up a hill, but every morning I’d wake up back at the bottom.”

“I’m glad you don’t feel that way anymore.” Trent matches his tone.

“Me too.”

“Ted?” Trent asks quietly. “Why did you call me?”

Ted sighs. “I should be happy to be here, shouldn’t I?”

“Aren’t you?” There’s no accusation in Trent’s tone. Ted hadn’t realized how scared he was there would be, but Trent’s voice carries nothing but kindness and maybe a little confusion.

“When I’m with Henry? Heck yeah, I’m happy as a clam.” Ted shares. “But then he’ll go to a friend’s house or he’ll go to his room to play video games or it’s nighttime and I just don’t know what to do with myself. It’s like I don’t fit here anymore. I’m in my childhood bedroom, Trent. I’m currently looking at a poster of Freddie Mercury.”

“You really were comfortable with your sexuality, weren’t you?” Trent sounds vaguely amazed.

Ted snorts softly and shrugs. “He made good music.”

“I’m sorry you feel like you don’t fit there anymore, Ted.” Trent’s voice is serious again, despite the gentleness. “For what it’s worth, I think you’ve carved a place for yourself in Richmond. You fit here.”

Warmth floods Ted’s chest at the declaration. Somehow, it was exactly what he needed to hear.

“That’s worth a whole bunch to me, Trent. Thank you.”

“I wish there was something I could do to help.” Trent says ruefully. “Wait. Is there anything I can do to help?”

Ted smiles to himself. “You’re doing it. This helps a lot, actually.”

“Good.” Trent lets out a relieved breath. “I’m glad, Ted.”

Ted thinks about what else would help, but there’s only really one thing he wants.

“Can you stay on the phone a little longer? Maybe talk about something lighter.”

“I’d love to.” Trent pauses, probably waiting for Ted to suggest a subject, but he’s got nothing, so Trent comes up with something himself. “How’s Henry?”

Chapter Text

Soon after the season starts again, Ted takes to texting Trent links to his own articles with notes or commentary. These range from wrong corrections to his spelling to compliments to the writing to questions about his opinion on the strategy of both Richmond or other teams.

Whenever Trent gets one of those texts, it makes his day. Not to mention that they make for great conversation starters.

Richmond’s tie streak shows no sign of slowing down.

Ouch, Trent.

This one is harsher than the weather at the Sahara.

Is that a complaint?

Never.

It’s a good article and every word is true.

One of these days we’re gonna win a game, you’ll see.

I can’t wait to read what you’ll write then.

One of these days better be soon, Ted.

I’ve had that draft ready for weeks.

You’re kidding me.

Do you have drafts ready in case we lose too?

Never.

Careful there, Trent.

It almost sounds like you’re saying that you have faith we’re gonna win soon.

Ted.

Why would you ever I don’t?

“And though I believe that Ted Lasso will fail here and Richmond will suffer the embarrassment of relegation, I won’t gloat when it happens.”

Did you have that ready to go?

Maybe yes, maybe no.

Maybe I’m good at remembering quotes on the go.

Maybe now I’ll never know.

YES!!

Good one.

But you know that’s not true anymore, right?

I meant it when I wrote it.

But that was last season.

This season you’ve got Richmond set up to succeed.

You really think so?

Of course.

Aw, thank you, Trent.

Now you just need to win a fucking match.

I didn’t think it could get any harsher, yet here we are.

Trent, in return, gets in the habit of waiting for Ted at the press room after the conferences. Sometimes Ted sits down with him and sometimes they walk together, but he always shows up. 

After the away game against Cardiff City, Trent’s so encompassed on his phone he doesn’t notice Ted sitting next to him until the man speaks up.

“Trent?”

Trent startles, dropping his phone and bringing a hand up to his chest. “Jesus, Ted. Make a noise, will you?”

“I walked in here louder than an elephant on a trampoline, Trent.” Ted gives him a concerned look. “Is something wrong?”

Trent runs his hands over his face. “Sorry. I’m fine, I’m just in my own head a bit.”

“Do you wanna talk about it?”

Trent sighs and leans back on his chair. “Carol’s visiting her parents in Brazil this week, so Bea’s staying with my parents tonight.” He explains, staring at the ceiling. “It always freaks me out when she stays with them. I know they’re good with her.” 

Ted places a comforting hand on his shoulder and Trent can’t help but lean on it.

“My father doesn’t even say anything too bad to me anymore, you know? But I just can’t get over the fear of her going through the same shit that I went through in that house.”

“It was bad, huh?”

Trent snorts. “People with well adjusted families don’t lie to themselves for 40 years, Ted.”

“No, I don’t suppose they do.” Ted squeezes his shoulder in support. “But hey, they’re not Bea’s parents. You are.” 

“Yeah.” Trent smiles softly. “And that’s better, right?”

“That’s a lot better, Trent.” Ted returns his smile. “You’re an amazing dad.”

“Thank you, Ted.” Trent rests his hand on top of Ted’s. “We’re all just doing our best, aren’t we?”

“Yeah, we are.” Ted squeezes his shoulder again before letting go. “Tell you what, you doing anything tonight?”

Trent chuckles. “I have an article to write, Ted.”

“Oh, yeah.” Ted giggles too. “Forgot about that for a second. What about after that? Can I buy you dinner? Dads missing their kids club.”

That’s the best thing Trent’s heard all day. He smiles brightly.

“That sounds great.”

“I gotta go back to the team.” Ted gives nods towards the door before standing up. “Text me when you’re free?”

“Yeah.” Trent follows him out of the press room and turns to go in the opposite direction. “I’ll see you later, Ted.”

What are your thoughts on therapy?

Yes.

What do you mean ‘Yes’?

Yes to therapy.

I’ve been going since my divorce.

I had a lot I needed to deal with. (Still do.)

Therapy really helps.

Isn’t it weird? Spilling your guts to a stranger?

A bit, yeah.

But they’re only a stranger in the beginning.

After a while you’re just spilling your guts to your therapist.

And that’s better?

You get used to it.

I never got used to it.

It was like pulling teeth every week.

Did you try different therapists?

I’m told that sometimes it takes a while to find a match.

I just tried the one.

He was Michelle’s therapist first, then he became our couple’s therapist.

I always felt like they were ganging up on me.

That’s awful, Ted.

I’m sorry that happened to you.

That’s not what therapy’s supposed to be.

What’s it like for you?

It’s just talking about how I feel.

It helps me realize why I feel that way.

 And sometimes they have suggestions about what I can do to get better.

I mean, when you put it like that it sounds reasonable.

But isn’t that what friends are for?

Sometimes.

But it’s not the same.

My friends have their own stuff they need to deal with.

I can’t keep piling up my stuff on top of theirs.

I’m happy to hear about your stuff.

I know, Ted.

I’m happy to hear about your stuff too.

But you don’t tell me everything, do you?

Touché, Timothée Chalamet.

“That was a good one, huh?” Ted says as he walks into the press room at Nelson Road.

“I thought we agreed you needed a win.” Trent says with a smirk.

Ted shrugs as he sits down next to Trent. “Some things are more important than winning or losing.”

“Yes, they are.” Trent’s smirks turns into a fond smile

“Beer?” Ted offers the bottle in his left hand.

Trent shakes his head. “I’ve got to drive home.”

“Soda, then.” Ted gives him the bottle in his right hand and raises the other one up for a toast.

“What’s the occasion?”

“We broke the tie streak,” Ted smiles, “there’s a party going on in the locker room.”

“I’ll drink to that.” Trent clinks their bottles togethers before taking a sip. “Tell me, Coach Lasso, do you feel that having a party after a loss sends the right message?”

“Heck yeah!” Ted laughs. “But I’ll have you know, I didn’t even organize this one. The boys did it all on their own.”

“Ah.” Trent nods. “The Lasso Way in action. You throw them a loss party once and they learn to do it by themselves from then on.”

“I’m a proud Papa Bear, Trent.” Ted says over the rim of his bottle.

“As you should be.” Trent takes another sip of his drink. “Why aren’t you there with them?”

“I’ll go back soon, they won’t even miss me.”

He’s all that: Is Roy Kent the makeover that Richmond needs?

TRENT CRIMM!

This is the greatest thing I’ve read since Jenna McAllen wrote me a love letter in 8th grade.

How did you know about the RomCom motif?

Are you asking me to give up my source, Coach Lasso?

Scandalous.

Please?

I’m baking biscuits, I’ll take some for you tomorrow.

I can’t be bribed, Ted.

I’m offended you’re even offering.

Aw, shoot.

It was worth a try.

Did you really speak in RomCom references all week?

If you love a reference, you say it, you say it right then, out loud. Otherwise, the moment just passes you by.

I don’t know why I expected anything different.

Trent’s watching the FA quarter finals from the press box. Somehow, Richmond is winning. Trent’s trying not to get ahead of himself, but he can’t deny his excitement.

Suddenly, he sees Ted running out of the pitch. He freezes for a moment just watching the man before he reaches for his phone and sends a text.

Everything okay, Ted?

He’s still looking down when the stadium booms around him. Tottenham scored a goal, but he can’t bring himself to care.

Chapter Text

Ted wakes up still exhausted. 

He passed out without checking his phone the night before, so now he has texts from all of his friends that he needs to respond to. Including Trent’s.

Everything okay, Ted?

I hear it’s food poisoning.

I hope you get better soon.

Let me know if there’s anything you need.

I’m better today.

I appreciate your concern, though.

I’m glad to hear it.

Congratulations on yesterday’s win.

We missed you at the press conference.

Thank you, Trent.

♥️

♥️

Well, that wasn’t a lie. He does feel better today. And it’s better to let everyone believe he had food poisoning, anyway.

“So you had food poisoning and you are fit as a fiddle now…”

“Exactamundo, Dikembe Mutombo.”

Trent puts away his notebook and looks Ted in the eye. “And off the record?”

Ted’s hit by a strong sense of déjà vu. “Off the record?” He blinks.

“I understand that you don’t want the truth to be published, whatever it is.” Trent says gently, taking a step closer. “But I’m now asking as your friend.”

Ted cocks his head as he studies Trent for a long moment. No one else has called him out on the food poisoning lie. He’s pretty sure Beard knows it’s bullshit, but he seems to be giving Ted time to figure himself out. He feels put on the spot by it, but also warmed by the care Trent’s showing.

He looks around the pub. Mae’s still close enough to hear what they’re saying. Jeremy, Paul and Baz are on the other end of the bar, but he knows from experience that they might cut into his conversation at any point.

“Can we go somewhere less… Exposed?” He asks tentatively. 

Trent nods decisively and points towards the door. “I’m here with a friend—”

“Shoot.” Ted backtracks. “Some other time?”

“It’s fine, Ted.” Trent waves his concern away. “We’re done with dinner already, I’m just gonna need a couple of minutes to say goodbye.” 

“Oh.” Ted’s eyes wander towards the door before looking back at Trent. “Okay. I’m gonna settle up with Mae and I’ll meet you outside?”

Trent smiles at him before walking away. 

Ted calls Mae over and ignores her knowing look as he taps his card. He steps out of the pub and into the chilly night, burying his hands in his pockets.

Trent’s waiting just outside, leaning against the wall.

“I live 5 minutes from here,” Ted nods in the direction of his apartment, “if that’s okay?”

Trent gestures ahead of him. “Lead the way.”

They walk side by side, arms almost touching. Ted asks about Bea’s current unicorn obsession and Trent’s happy to update him on the new plushies she got from her grandparents.

“You want a drink?” Ted asks once they get inside, closing the door after him.

“Sure.” Trent takes off his jacket.

Trent stands awkwardly by the door, so Ted gestures towards the living room before going into the kitchen. He gets the bottle of scotch and two glasses and brings them to the living room. Trent’s already sitting on the couch, so Ted pours the drinks and hands one over before sitting down next to him.

They drink in silence.

“So.” Trent says after it becomes clear that Ted isn’t going to lead this conversation. “Food poisoning?”

Ted laughs humorlessly. “Not food poisoning.”

“What, then?” Trent turns to look at him, one leg folded on the couch.

Ted takes a fortifying breath. “I’m told they’re called panic attacks.” He says, turning the glass in his hand before setting it down on the coffee table.

Trent takes his hand. “Has that been going on long?” He asks quietly.

Ted looks down at their joined hands. “Since Liverpool.”

“Oh.”

“I thought it was a one time thing, you know?” Ted fiddles with Trent’s hand. “Evidently, it is not.”

“That must be scary.”

Ted looks up and sees the compassion in Trent’s face. He responds with a rueful smile.

“It’s terrifying, Trent.”

Trent scoots closer to pull him into a hug. “I’m so sorry, Ted.” 

“It’s not your fault.” Ted says into his hair.

Trent snorts softly. “I’m still sorry.” 

Ted clings to him for a long time until Trent pulls away enough to look at his face. 

“Does anyone know?” Trent tilts his head.

“Rebecca.” Ted nods. “She saw it happen in Liverpool. And Doctor Sharon knows now.”

Trent’s lips curl into a small smile. “The team psychologist?”

“I went to her office after I left the pitch.” Ted responds with a sad smile of his own. “I’m getting help now.”

“That’s great, Ted.” Trent nudges playfully at his shoulder. “I see I managed to change your mind about therapy.” He smirks.

Ted laughs. “You made a very compelling point.” 

“Is it helping?” Trent’s expression’s turned serious again, he rests his hand on Ted’s shoulder.

“I ran away from the first two sessions, but I stayed for the third!” He jokes weakly.

“I’m proud of you, Ted.” Trent squeezes his shoulder.

“I had to do it.” Ted shakes his head in embarrassment. “I mean, breaking down outside a karaoke joint in Liverpool is one thing, but breaking down during a critical game is something else entirely.” He looks down. “We almost lost because of me.”

Trent leans down, catching his eyes again.

“It wasn’t your fault, Ted.” He says softly.

Ted gives him an unimpressed look. “Really, Trent?”

“Really.” Trent’s voice has gone serious again, steely under its softness. “Listen to me, Coach Lasso. Was it Kent’s fault when his knee gave out on him? Was it his fault Richmond got relegated?”

Ted dry swallows and shakes his head. “No, it wasn’t.” He barely gets out.

“How is this any different?” Trent asks quietly.

“It just is.” Ted shrugs. “Roy had no control over his injuries, he got hurt out on the field.”

“And you have total control over your panic attacks, right?” Trent’s tone is still kind, despite the sarcastic sting. “You chose to leave that match.”

“Of course not.” Ted huffs.

Trent simply raises an eyebrow and Ted begrudgingly nods.

“I see your point.”

Trent sits back with his arm up on the back of the couch. Ted looks from Trent’s face to his arm and back to his face, where he notices a little smile. He smiles back and sits closer, resting his head on Trent’s shoulder.

“Hey, Ted?” Trent brings his arm around Ted’s shoulders. “Now that I know, you can call me if it happens again, okay? It isn’t much, but I think it helped a bit in Liverpool, right?”

“It helped a lot, Trent.” Ted brings his knees up, curling up around himself. “I’ll keep that in mind.”

They stay silent like that. After a while Trent starts running his hand up and down Ted’s arm. Ted melts a bit more.

“You wanna put on some cartoons?” Ted asks at last.

“I’d like that.” Trent squeezes his shoulder.

They watch Bluey again, talking about everything and nothing. 

After a few episodes, Ted notices that Trent has been silent for a while. He looks up to see the man fast asleep. Ted smiles to himself.

“Trent?” He whispers, but there’s no response.

He waits for another episode before checking again, only to get the same result. He turns off the TV and maneuvers Trent so that he’s lying down on the couch, then brings over a blanket and a pillow to set him up comfortably. 

“Goodnight, Trent.” He whispers.

He looks at the man peacefully asleep on his couch and is taken by the urge to kiss his forehead. 

Well, what’s to stop him?

Ted wakes up the next morning to the smell of frying bacon. He smiles into his pillow when he remembers Trent falling asleep on his couch.

Leaving the bedroom, he finds Trent making breakfast in his kitchen, his hair up in a cute little manbun. He smiles at the sight. 

Wait. 

When did he start to think of Trent as cute? 

He’ll have to revisit that question later.

“Good morning, Lisa Loring.” Ted calls from the doorway.

“Oh, wow.” Trent turns around, his head tilted. “The illusion fades straight away after the second night, doesn’t it?”

Ted’s browns furrow.

“You’ve used that one on me already.” Trent explains.

“Oh.” Ted chuckles. “Good morning, Danny Doring?”

“Good morning, Ted.” Trent smiles and points at the coffee pot before turning back to the pans he’s managing. “I made some fresh coffee, if you want it.”

Ted pours a cup for himself and sits at the counter. “None of that garbage water you Brits like so much?”

“Not this early in the morning.” Trent laughs. “Coffee's for waking up, Tea is for getting through the day.”

“Whatever you say, Daisy May.” Ted takes a sip of his coffee. “Hey, Trent?”

“Hmm?”

“I should have asked you yesterday.” He fiddles with the mug in his hand. “But the man you were with last night. That wasn’t a date, was it?”

Trent gives him a raised eyebrow over his shoulder. “Why do you ask?”

“Uh. No reason.” Ted feels his face heat up. “It’s just. I wouldn’t want to interrupt if it was a date, you know?”

“It wasn’t a date.” Trent turns his attention back to the food. “Paul’s a friend. I actually met him on Bantr, but there wasn’t much of a spark when we met in person. It’s nice to have queer friends, though.”

“That it is.” Ted says with forced cheerfulness. “So you’re on Bantr, then?”

“Not anymore. I gave up after a while. It just wasn’t working for me, I guess.” Trent turns off the stove. “Are you?”

“Nah. After Michelle I just… Haven’t been ready to get back out there.”

“Of course.” Trent faces him again, leaning against the counter. “There’s no timeline on post-divorce adjustments.”

“No,” Ted smiles, “I don’t suppose there is.”

Trent points with a thumb over his shoulder.

“Breakfast is ready.”

Chapter Text

Trent goes from Ted’s place straight to Carol’s to pick up Bea. He was planning to stop at home and change, but he lost track of time during breakfast. Unfortunately, his lovely ex-wife and best friend notices it as soon as she opens the door.

“I see you decided to give Paul a chance after all.” She looks him up and down.

“I don’t know what you mean.” He slips past her and into the house. “Where’s my daughter?”

“Oh, please!” She snorts. “You show up here in yesterday’s wrinkled clothes and you think I don’t know where you were all night?” Trent gives her an unimpressed look. “She’s still asleep.” She waves her hand dismissively.

Trent blinks. “It’s 10 in the morning.”

“She had a bit of a fever last night.” Trent’s about to ask more when Carol cuts him off. “She’s fine, Trent. Let her sleep it off.”

Trent nods uncertainly and moves towards the living room. He sits down sideways on the couch and resumes their previous topic. “You don’t know where I was all night, actually.”

“You weren’t with Paul?” She sits down next to him, pulling his feet onto her lap. “Now you have to tell me.”

Trent can’t suppress the dreamy smile on his face. “I was at Ted’s.”

“Finally!” Carol honest to God fist pumps.

“I slept on the couch, Kay.” Trent laughs. “Nothing happened.”

She scrunches her nose. “Rude of him to make you sleep on the couch.”

“Kay—” Trent shakes his head.

“I’m just saying!” She holds her arms up in surrender. “You’re basically dating him already, you just haven’t had sex yet.”

“I’m not dating Ted Lasso.” Trent snorts at the ridiculous notion.

“Yeah, sure.” She rolls her eyes. “And what were you doing on his couch?”

“We were watching Bluey again.” He says sheepishly. “I fell asleep.”

“Hmm.” She pokes at his foot. “And was he on the couch with you?”

“He…” Shit. There’s no way to spin this, is there? “We were cuddling.” Trent says grudgingly.

“One last question,” She smiles enigmatically, “why didn’t you want to date Paul?”

“Because…” Trent doesn’t have an acceptable response to that. Except for: “I’m dating Ted Lasso.” He hangs his head. “Fuck.”

She pats his shoulder. “There you go, Tren.”

“I don’t think he sees it that way, though.” Trent sighs, picking his head back up. “He was telling me just this morning that he doesn’t think he’s ready to get back into dating yet.”

“Then you wait until he’s ready.” Carol shrugs. “You like what you have now, right? You look happy today.”

“I do like it.” Trent smiles. 

“You know what they say, don’t mess with a team that’s winning.”

He furrows his brows. “No one says that, Kay.”

“Oh. I guess it doesn’t translate well.” She says thoughtfully. After a beat she snaps her fingers and points at him. “If it ain’t broke don’t fix it!” 

Well, it definitely ain’t broke.

The Richmond dream comes to an end.

This is beautifully written, Trent.

Thank you, Ted.

It was a hard one to write.

And a hard match to watch.

You don’t know the half of it, Brad Pitt.

Anything you want to share?

Nothing worth talking about.

Just some locker room drama.

I thought you liked your locker room the way you like your mum’s swimming suit.

In one piece?

I do.

But that only works until some outsider barges in and starts insulting my players.

What the fuck?

How did they get in?

He knew one of the players.

Unfortunately.

Did you get him out?

Yes, sir.

Coach Beard kicked him right out of there.

Good man.

Is everyone okay?

Mostly.

Are you okay?

Mostly.

Tell you what, me and Bea are at the playground in Richmond Green.

You want to join us?

I wouldn’t want to impose on your father-daughter time.

Just come over, Ted.

I’ll bring cookies.

Trent’s sitting on a bench, watching Bea play on the monkey bars, when he sees Ted walking towards them. He raises his hand so Ted can spot him too.

“Hey there, Bob Sinclair.” Ted says cheerfully as he approaches.

Trent stands up to greet him with a hug. He’s decided that if he’s dating Ted Lasso, he might as well date Ted Lasso. 

“Hi Ted.”

“Oh boy.” Ted laughs in his ear. “I don’t know what changed, but I like it. More hugs, I say.”

Trent lets him go to sit back down and Ted follows him. They sit side by side on the bench, pressed together from shoulders to thighs.

“Which one is yours?” Ted looks around the playground.

“That little hurricane.” Trent points to where Bea is hanging by her knees on the monkey bars, face flushed and dark hair falling out of her ponytail.

“She’s a real cutie patootie, Trent.” Ted nudges his shoulder. “And wowza! Look at that head of hair!”

“Yes. If she had to inherit anything from me, I’m glad it was the hair.” Trent responds drily.

“Now, that’s just negative thinking.” Ted shakes his head. “There’s loads of great things I hope she’s inherited from you!” He holds up a finger for each item on the list. “The hair, of course. The wit. The talent with words. The caring personality. The—”

Ted’s interrupted by Bea running towards them and throwing herself against Trent’s legs. Trent can’t help but wonder for how long he would have gone on for if left to his own devices.

“Who’s this, daddy?” Bea hides her face behind his leg, torn between jealousy and shyness.

Trent brings his hands to her hair and sets out to carefully redo her ponytail. 

“This is Coach Lasso, Bee.” He answers with a smile. “He’s the one who sent you those pretty biscuits on your birthday. Do you remember?”

She shakes her head, making his work harder. Thankfully, he’s just about done with the ponytail.

“Maybe this will refresh your memory.” Ted takes a pink box from his backpack and opens it to reveal 3 shortbread biscuits covered in pink and purple icing.

Bea’s eyes go huge looking at them, but she looks up at Trent before reaching for one. “Daddy, can I?”

“Yes, sweetpea.” He pats her head before taking his hand back. “You can have one, then I’ll have one and Coach Lasso will have one. How about that?”

She nods enthusiastically and takes a biscuit from the box. Trent takes one as well and Ted takes the last one before putting the box back into his bag.

“What do we say to Coach Lasso?” Trent prompts.

“Thank you, Coach Lasso.” She recites dutifully around a mouthful of biscuit.

Trent nods at her before turning to Ted as well. “Yes. Thank you, Ted.”

Ted winks at him before focusing his attention on Bea.

“You’re welcome, little Miss Crimm.” He offers her his free hand. “And you can call me Ted.”

She takes it shyly. “I’m Bea.”

“Bea? That’s a beautiful name for a beautiful girl.” Ted actually leans down to kiss her hand before letting it go.

Bea giggles. “It’s short for Beatriz.”

“That’s an even beautifuller name.” Ted replies seriously.  

“I have a Brazilian name ‘cause my mamãe’s from Brazil.” Bea explains.

“Brazil, huh?” Ted finishes his biscuit and gets off the bench to sit cross legged on the ground. “I’ve never been to Brazil. Is it nice?”

She nods enthusiastically. “My vovó has a big house with a big yard and lots of trees to climb and my vovô built me a house in one of the trees!”

“You have your own house!?” Ted asks with over the top enthusiasm, making her giggle even harder.

And it hits Trent all at once, the last nail on his coffin.

He’s in love with Ted Lasso.

Chapter Text

Ted considers texting Trent after leaving Rebecca’s dad’s funeral, but the taxi’s pulling up before he can think of what to say. He rings the bell and fidgets with his tie as he fights the urge to run away. 

Who pops up at people’s houses unannounced anymore? 

He should have texted. 

Trent opens the door a few moments later. He looks extremely cuddly in sweatpants and a fuzzy hoodie.

His eyes go wide in surprise. “Ted?”

“I should have texted.” Is all Ted can think to say.

“Ted.” Trent repeats in a concerned voice, he steps forward and takes Ted in a hug. He melts into it instantly, burying his face into Trent’s neck. “You don’t need to text before you come over.” Trent says quietly, bringing a hand to the back of Ted’s head, holding him in place.

“Can I hang out for a while?” Ted whispers out, still clinging to Trent after what must have been at least a couple of minutes.

“Of course.” Trent replies easily. “Bea’s here, though. Is that alright?”

“It’s her home, Trent.” He jokes weakly, finally letting go of Trent and taking a half step back. “Thank you for this. I appreciate it.”

“It’s my pleasure, Ted.” Trent smiles and nods towards the living room. “Come on in, we’re watching Encanto.”

“I love Encanto.” Ted smiles and follows him down the hallway. 

“Bee, Coach Lasso is here.” Trent calls as he enters the room, but Bea doesn’t look up from where she’s laying down on the rug. “I’m going to switch the movie to English, okay?”

“But, Daddy!” She cries at the same time as Ted exclaims “Hold on there, Trent!”

“Ted doesn’t speak Portuguese, sweetpea.” Trent explains.

“And I ain’t ever gonna learn if I don’t practice, will I?” Ted argues. “I’ve always wanted to learn a new language.”

Trent chuckles and shakes his head fondly. He sits down on the middle of the couch and Ted sits next to him, automatically pressing close to his side. Trent brings an arm around his shoulders and, in what has now become a familiar position, Ted rests his head on Trent’s shoulder.

Unfamiliarly, Trent turns his head slightly and presses a kiss to the top of Ted’s head. Ted can’t help the happy sigh he lets out.

He knew coming here was the right thing to do.

Bea looks back at the noise and frowns. She gets off the floor to sit between Ted and Trent.

“Aren’t you a jealous one?” Trent laughs, but he scoots away from Ted so Bea can sit comfortably. He had to move his hand from Ted’s shoulder, but he doesn’t take it away all together, instead bringing it up to play with Ted’s hair. Ted smiles at him over Bea’s head getting a matching smile in return.

He can follow the movie well enough, despite not understanding the language. He sings in English under her breath as Bea screams it in Portuguese at the top of his lungs. After a couple of songs, though, her energy starts to flag and by the end of the movie, she’s asleep on Trent’s chest.

“I’m gonna take her to bed.” Trent tells him softly and Ted smiles as he watches Trent pick his daughter up and carry her away.

He lounges on the couch as he waits for Trent to come back. 

He expected to come over and spend some time with Trent, which would have been lovely. But getting to spend family time with Trent and Bea was exactly what he didn’t know he needed. It makes him miss Henry like crazy, but it’s also good. He’ll call Henry tomorrow, when he’ll have the mental energy to actually talk with his son. And he’s seeing Henry in the Summer.

He smiles at the thought.

“You look happy.” Trent calls from the doorway.

Ted looks up at him. “Thinking about seeing Henry.” He explains.

“Of course.” Trent smiles. “You’ll go visit him in a few weeks, right?”

“As soon as the season is over, yeah.” Ted beams.

“That’s great, Ted.” Trent says sincerely. “I’m happy for you.” 

“Thanks, Trent. And thank you for this.” Ted gestures around himself. “I really do appreciate it.”

“Don’t mention it.” Trent smiles. “Do you want to stay here tonight?”

“Is that okay?” Ted asks hopefully.

“Yeah, it’s okay.” Trent walks up to Ted and holds out his hand. “C’mon, let’s find you some pajamas. That suit’s entirely too nice to sleep in.”

Ted lets himself be led by the hand into Trent’s bedroom. He waits by the door as Trent digs around the dresser and comes back with a set of PJs.

“Bathroom’s over there.” Trent points to the other door in the room. “There should be a spare toothbrush in the cabinet.”

“Thanks, Trent.” 

Ted goes into the bathroom to change and get ready to sleep. He comes back a few minutes later to find Trent in pajamas as well.

“You want me to set up the couch for you? You can just stay here, if you want.” Trent offers. “It’s not like we haven’t done it before.”

“Yeah.” Ted smiles sheepishly. “Here would be nice.”

Trent pats his shoulder on his way to the bathroom. Once he’s gone, Ted looks aimlessly around the room, finally deciding to sit down on the bed to wait.

After a few minutes, Trent comes back out and settles in under the covers, holding them open for Ted to slip in as well.

Trent’s lying down on his back, so Ted places his head on Trent’s chest. He feels Trent wrap his arms around him and responds by throwing an arm over Trent’s waist. Trent kisses his hair again.

“That’s nice.” Ted confesses quietly.

“I think so too.” Trent matches his tone.

They hold onto each other for long minutes before Trent breaks the silence.

“You want to talk about it?”

“You told me to call if it happened again.” Ted replies simply.

“This is better than a call.” Trent says into his hair.

“Yeah.” Ted agrees. “I think so too.”

Ted wakes up to the most annoying alarm he’s ever heard.

“Whatizit?” he slurs.

“Sorry, Ted.” A nice voice replies. Very nice, actually.

Ted slowly takes stock of his surroundings. He’s lying down on his side with Trent’s back against his chest. He tightens his hold. 

“I’ve got to get up, Ted.” Trent laughs.

“Don’t leave me.” He whines childishly and sleepily presses a kiss to the back of Trent’s neck.

“I’ve got a kid I need to get for nursery school.” Trent squeezes his hand.

Ted sighs and loosens his hold. “Too early for your reasonable arguments.” He grumbles.

“Carol’s picking her up in an hour.” Trent says as he slips away. “I’ll come back, okay?”

“Mmkay.” Ted smiles dreamily.

Ted wakes up again to Trent getting back into bed. He snuggles closer, resting his head on Trent’s shoulder.

“What time is it?” He asks softly.

“Just past 7:30.” Trent answers as he brings his arms around him.

“What time do you leave for work?”

“About 8:30?” He moves one hand into Ted’s hair and plays around with it

Ted lets out a sigh and says. “Works for me, Bruce Lee.”

“We should get up.” Trent says without moving to do so.

“Another 5 minutes?” Ted compromises.

Trent laughs. “Yeah, okay.”

He hears Trent take his phone with his free hand, but he doesn’t particularly mind as long as the hand on his hair doesn’t stop.

“Huh.” Trent exclaims after a couple of minutes, stilling the hand in Ted’s hair.

“Don’t stop!” Ted complains.

“Sorry.” He resumes moving. “I just got an email from Coach Shelley.”

“Nate?” Ted asks distantly.

“Yeah. He has something he wants to talk to me about, apparently. On the record. Any idea what it might be?”

“I dunno.” Ted snuggles closer. “But you should meet with him. He comes up with most of our strategies, you know. Kid deserves some recognition.”

“I’ll set something up for later this week.” Trent kisses his hair. “We really should get up.”

“Do I have to?” Ted whines.

“There’s work to do, Coach Lasso.” Trent pats his back. “Promotions to earn.”

Ted sighs and sits up. “I’ll make you breakfast.” He calls over his shoulder as he leaves the room.

Trent walks into the kitchen about 15 minutes later, dressed for work but his hair still messy from bed. He looks beautiful. Ted’s just placed the two plates of pancakes on the table.

“Do you really speak Portuguese?” He asks after they’ve sat down to eat.

“Not really.” Trent laughs. “I know enough to understand Bea most of the time. And I’ve watched Encanto enough times both in English and Portuguese, so it doesn’t really bother me.”

“Can you say something in Portuguese?” He asks excitedly.

Trent tilts his head thoughtfully before speaking in a heavy accent. “Bom dia, flor do dia.”

Ted beams. “That’s nice. What does it mean?”

“It’s a ‘good morning’ rhyme.”

“They say good morning with rhymes? I like this language already.”

Trent chuckles. “I thought you might.”

Later, when they’re at the door and ready to leave, Ted wraps his arms snuggly around Trent. 

“Thank you for taking me in last night.” He says into Trent’s hair.

“I’m glad you came over, Ted.” Trent holds on just as tightly.

Ted tilts his head to press a lingering kiss to Trent’s temple. “I’ll text you, okay?”

“Yeah.” Trent steps back and opens the door. “Goodbye, Ted.”

Chapter Text

Trent stares blankly at Nathan Shelley’s back as the man walks away from the table and out of the café. Once the coach is completely out of sight, he hangs his head and buries it in his hands.

What the fuck is he going to do now?

He ponders the question for a good long while without moving. He doesn’t want to write this. But he might not have a choice. But he doesn’t want to hurt Ted. But he might not have a choice…

Fuck.

Fuck fuck fuck.

He’s not sure how much time passes as he spirals by himself before he calls Carol.

“Ex-husband!” She answers cheerfully. “Are you finally going to tell me about your very special guest last Sunday? Because let me tell you, Bea loves him. I mean, she’s super jealous, but—”

“Kay.” Trent cuts her off. “I’m fucked.”

Her tone turns serious instantly. “What happened, Tren?”

“I just got a scoop.” He stares at his notes from the meeting with Coach Shelley.

“It’s about Lasso, isn’t it?” She quickly pieces together. There’s a reason Trent married her, after all.

“It’s really bad, Kay.” He sighs. “It’s something he trusted me with. I can’t write it.” He closes the notebook with a vengeance, he can’t look at it anymore.

“Then don’t write it.” She offers simply.

“Then someone else will.” He throws his head back to stare at the ceiling. “And they’ll destroy him, Kay. I have to do it.”

“Then… Write it?”

“He’ll hate me.” He whispers, closing his eyes.

“I don’t think he will, Tren.” She says gently. “I can tell from Bea’s stories alone that he likes you just as much as you like him. If you tell him the truth I’m sure he’ll believe you.”

He laughs hysterically. “And fuck journalistic integrity, right?” 

“You’ve got to do what you can live with, Tren.” She offers wisely. “They’re shit options, but they’re the ones you’ve got. It’s your choice.”

“That’s the thing, Kay, I really don’t think it is.” He sighs again. “I have to go deal with this. Thank you for the pep talk.”

“Good luck, Tren.” Her voice goes a little bit cheerful again. “I know you’ll figure it out. I love you, yeah?”

“I love you too, Kay.” He smiles slightly. “I’ll call you tomorrow.”

He hangs up and fetches his things to go home.

He has work to do.

There’s no answer when Trent presses the buzzer to Ted’s apartment. For a moment, he’s taken by the overwhelming fear that Ted already hates him, but then reason catches up to him. Ted’s probably not home. He should have texted before coming over. 

He takes out his phone.

Are you home?

Trent leans against the wall to wait, constantly checking his phone for news from Ted, but the man himself shows up before too long.

“Trent?” Ted approaches him with a look of confusion. “Is everything alright?”

Trent shakes his head. “I have something I need to tell you.”

“Okay.” Ted nods uncertainly and moves past Trent to unlock the door. “Come on up, we can talk inside.”

Trent follows him up and goes straight for the kitchen table, opening his laptop in front of one of the chairs, but not sitting down.

“I gotta say, Trent.” Ted studies Trent’s face carefully. “You’re worrying me a bit.”

“I met with Coach Shelley today.” Trent gets out at once, ripping off the bandaid. He takes a deep breath before continuing. “He told me about the panic attack at the FA match.”

Ted gazes at the laptop before looking back at Trent. “But you already knew about that.”

“Yes. But he didn’t know I knew. He was…” Trent pauses. How is he supposed to say this? “I’m so sorry, Ted.” He says gently before he squares his shoulders, drawing courage to say what he needs to say. “He was vicious. He was adamant that you’re unfit to coach because of your mental health. He expects me to publish it. I have no doubt that he’ll find someone else if I don’t.”

Ted drops onto the chair like a puppet whose strings just got cut. “Shoot.” He says weakly.

“I’m so sorry, Ted.” He repeats.

Ted shakes his head. “It’s not your fault.” He reaches out with one arm and Trent breathes a relieved sigh. He steps forward so Ted’s arm is around his waist and hugs Ted’s shoulders. Ted leans his head against his belly and Trent leans down so his face is buried on Ted’s hair.

“I’m so fucking sorry.” He whispers.

Ted squeezes his waist reassuringly. “What are we gonna do about it?” 

“Right.” Trent pulls away and sits on the chair next to Ted’s. He takes Ted’s hands over the table. “You’ve got options, okay? I’ll be honest, they’re shit options. But they’re yours and you get to choose.”

“Okay.” Ted takes a deep breath. “What are my options?”

“Option 1: I wrote an article.” Trent nods at the computer. “You can read it. Option 1 is I send it in and it’ll be in the print edition tomorrow morning.”

Ted’s eyes stray to the laptop in front of him. “I gotta say I don’t love that option, Trent.”

“Option 2: we do nothing.” Trent continues. “I really do think Nate will find someone else to publish it, but this would buy you some time to prepare. Maybe it’ll even hold until after the season, although I doubt it.”

“That’s not any better.” Ted scrunches his nose.

“Option 3: I write another article.” Trent squeezes Ted’s hand. “I have about 2 hours before the print deadline. If you want to go on the record and tell your side of the story, I’ll write it. Anyway you want.”

Ted hangs his head. “Any other options?”

“None that I can think of.” Trent shakes his head. “I really am sorry, Ted.”

“You really need to stop saying that.” Ted squeezes his hand. They hold hands in silence for a long while. “Can I read this article of yours, then?” Ted says at last, nodding towards the laptop.

Trent opens the document with his free hand and watches Ted’s face as he reads it. He mostly sees hurt, but at some points Ted gives little smiles or nods in agreement.

“Gosh, Trent.” Ted says at the end. “This… This is amazing. It’s barely about me at all. The way you talk about the team bringing on Doctor Sharon? I had no idea no other club in the league was doing that. I was so opposed to bringing her on at first, I wish I’d known about all of this. I think…” Ted turns his face to look at Trent. “I think you need to publish it.”

“I don’t need to do anything, Ted.” Trent shakes his head. “We’ll do what you need to do.”

“I need you to send it in.” Ted nods decisively.

“Are you sure?” Trent squeezes his hand.

Ted gives him a small smile. “Send it in, Trent.”

Trent lets go of Ted’s hand to focus on the laptop and go through the motions of handing in the article.

“Done.” He says finally.

Ted gets up and steps next to Trent, holding him in a mirrored way of how he was holding Ted before.

“I’m so sorry, Ted.” Trent clings to Ted’s waist.

“What are you sorry for?” Ted asks gently. “You ain’t done nothing wrong.”

Trent pulls his head away to look up at Ted. “I did everything wrong, Ted. Why do you think Shelley came to me with this? I’ve built a career out of tearing people down like this. I’m really sorry you got hurt because of it.”

“You weren’t the one to hurt me, Trent. Maybe you’ve hurt those other folks and you should make amends for that.” He runs a hand through Trent’s hair. “But you and I? We’re good. You did what you had to do and you did it well. I’m not angry at you, okay? Not even a little bit.” He leans down to kiss Trent’s forehead.

“Okay.” Trent breathes out before pressing his head back to Ted’s belly. 

“Can you stay here tonight?” Ted says into his hair. 

Trent shakes his head ruefully. “I don’t think that’s a good idea.”

“Oh.” Ted makes to move away.

“No!” Trent holds him in place. “I want to.” He assures. “But you’ll be in the spotlight in the morning. If there are reporters outside, we won’t want to add fuel to the fire by having to explain what I was doing here all night.”

“Right. Of course.” Ted tightens his hold on Trent before letting go. “Stay for a little while, though? I was gonna bake Bea’s beautiful birthday biscuits tonight. If you stay you can just take them with you.”

Trent gives a genuine smile at that. “I’d love that.”

He offers to help with the baking, but Ted declines, so he ends up seated at the counter watching Ted move around the kitchen as they chat. His only contribution is stopping Ted before he adds a full cup of salt to the mixer, but they agree that it was essential to the biscuits turning out alright.

Two hours later, Trent’s by the door with a golden box of green and purple biscuits.

He puts them away momentarily to hug Ted goodbye.

“Thank you for coming over, Trent.” Ted says softly.

Trent kisses his cheek. “Good luck tomorrow. Call me if you need anything.”

Ted smiles at him. “I’ll see you at the match.”

Chapter Text

Coach Lasso suffered panic attack during FA Cup match says anonymous source.

This is some of your best work to date.

I’m honored that’s my name on the title.

You’re too kind for your own good.

Anyone ever tell you that?

No such thing as “too kind.”

And yes, all the time.

Don’t ever listen to them.

You’re one of a kind, Ted Lasso.

Right back at ya, Trent Crimm.

I’m going to leave the apartment now, wish me luck.

You’ve got this, Ted.

And if maybe you don’t, you know where to find me.

♥️

♥️

“Coach, you keep trying to hold all this in, I’m afraid your mustache is gonna pop off.”

“Then I’ll look like that fella from the Hangover”

“Bradley Cooper?”

“You’re too good to me.”

They eat their chips in silence before Beard asks. “What about Crimm?” 

“What about Trent?” Ted cocks his head.

Beard gives him an unimpressed look. “Has he come to you?”

“He has, actually.” Ted smiles into his beer. “He apologized profusely, even though he did nothing wrong.”

“Good man.” Beard nods.

Ted blinks. “You really think that, huh?”

Beard shrugs. “You look content whenever you’ve been hanging out with him.”

“How do you know I’ve been hanging out with him?” Ted raises an eyebrow.

“Because you look content.” Beard repeats as if it’s obvious. “Ever since Liverpool.”

“He’s good to me.” Ted says simply.

“Good man.” Beard repeats.

Ted can’t think of a higher compliment.

“But hey, you know what this makes you now, though, right?”

“Trent Crimm. Independent.”

“We’re gonna miss you a whole lot around here, Trent Crimm, independent.” Ted’s smile takes on a sad edge.

Trent looks over his shoulder at the club house. “I’ll miss this place too.” He confesses. “I won’t miss you , though.”

Ted blinks in surprise. “Well, that’s me told, then.”

“Because I’ll still see you all the time.” He smiles. After Ted doesn’t respond for a few moments, Trent nervously adds “Right?”

Ted snaps out of it, his smile growing bright again. “Couldn’t get rid of me if you tried.”

Trent looks relieved as he smiles back. “You want a ride?” He points at his car.

Ted doesn’t. But he wants to walk away from Trent even less. “Sure thing, Dave Bing.” He replies gleefully.

Trent digs into his pocket for the car key, but comes up empty. He pats his other pockets and looks into the car. “Shit.”

“Did you lock your keys inside your car?” Ted teases.

“It seems so, yes.” He sighs as he stares at the keys still in the ignition. “I’m sorry, Ted, I think I’ll have to rescind that offer.”

“Nah,” Ted replies cheerfully, this is even better than a ride, “I’ll wait with you.”

“I’ll text Carol.” Trent takes out his phone. “She can bring me the spare keys.” He reports. And, after a moment, “in about 3 hours.” He hangs his head.

Ted laughs. “It’ll be fun.” He pats Trent’s back as he walks past him. He takes off his backpack and places it on the floor before leaning against the hood of Trent’s car.

Trent chuckles and joins him, shoulders touching. “Congratulations on the promotion, by the way.” He nudges Ted’s shoulder. “I knew you could do it.”

“Thanks, Trent.” Ted says in a well practiced voice. “The boys played their hearts out on the pitch today, I’m just glad it worked out for them.”

Trent gives him a questioning look. “You know you don’t have to give me sound bites anymore, right?”

“Old habits, I guess.” Ted laughs.

Trent chuckles as well before changing the subject. “When are you leaving for Kansas?”

“Tomorrow.” Ted says excitedly. “I can’t wait, Trent.”

“I’m happy for you, Ted.” He says sincerely, but Ted hears a sad undertone in his voice. He turns his face towards Trent with a frown. “I’ll miss you.” He admits, still facing forward.

Ted’s face goes soft. He brings his arm around Trent’s back, gently guiding his head to Ted’s shoulder. “I’ll miss you too.” He kisses Trent’s hair. “It’s only a few weeks. And there are phones.”

“Yeah.” Trent wraps his arm around Ted’s waist. “Of course.”

Ted rests his head on top of Trent’s. “What are you gonna do now?”

“I have no idea.” Trent giggles. “I have enough savings to get by for a while. Guess I’ll just… Look for inspiration.”

“I’m sure you’re gonna find it.”

Right then, the club house door opens and Coach Beard walks out. Ted and Trent lift their heads, but don't otherwise move. 

“Trent here locked his keys inside his car.” Ted explains and laughs at Trent’s answering groan.

Beard raises an eyebrow, which Ted easily translates to ‘You know I can get that car open in two minutes, right?’

Ted tilts his head towards Trent almost imperceptibly, his face reading ‘Come on, Coach. Let me have this.’

Beard smirks. “That’s unfortunate.” He says in a high pitched drawl. “That was a good article you wrote about my friend.” He says to Trent.

“Thank you, Coach Beard.” Trent nods gratefully.

“It’s a good thing too.” Beard continues in a tone that Ted can’t be sure if is joking or serious. “I might have had to kill you otherwise.” 

“I’d hate to put you in that position.” Trent responds drily.

Beard nods approvingly. “I’ll see you when you get back, Coach.” He turns to walk away.

“Have fun in Egypt, Coach.” Ted calls after him. “He’s going to look for curses to break.” He explains to Trent as they watch Beards retreating back.

Trent places his head back on Ted's shoulder. “I noticed Coach Shelley didn’t look too happy at the match today.” He says carefully.

Ted sighs. “I think I really hurt him, Trent.”

Trent’s head snaps up. “ You hurt him ?” 

“He’s lashing out.” Ted shrugs. “Hurt people hurt people.”

“Too kind.” Trent shakes his head fondly.

“He called me a fucking joke.” He adds as an afterthought.

“Now, why would anyone ever do that?” Trent smirks. But when Ted turns his head to face him, Trent’s face’s gone soft. “You’re not, you know. You never were. I was wrong.”

Ted’s breath hitches when he notices how close their faces are. Trent looks so lovely. Ted’s eyes stray down to his lips. His soft, soft lips. Maybe he should just lean in and—

You need to give her space, Ted. 

He tears his eyes away, facing forward again. “Thank you, Trent.” He squeezes Trent’s shoulders almost apologetically. “Do you and Bea have plans for the Summer?” He changes the subject.

Like a coward.

They only pull away from each other to stand up when Carol shows up a couple of hours later.

“Locked your keys inside your car again, huh?” She smirks at Trent as she steps out of her car. “What’s this? Third time this year?”

“It’s not funny.” Trent grumbles.

“Of course not.” Carol giggles. “It’s bloody hilarious.” She hands Trent a set of keys before turning to Ted. “Hi.” She offers him her hand. “I’m Carol.”

“Hi, Carol.” He takes her hand. “Meu nome é Ted.” He frowns in concentration. “É um prazer.”

She raises an impressed eyebrow. “O prazer é todo meu.”

“I don’t actually know what that means.” He says sheepishly. “I haven’t gotten that far on Duolingo yet.”

She laughs and lets go of his hand. “It means the pleasure’s all mine, Ted.”

“Since when have you been learning Portuguese?” Trent looks at him curiously.

“Since we watched Encanto.” Ted puts his hands in his pockets. “I thought that next time it might be nice to understand something.” He shrugs.

Trent smiles brightly at him before giving Carol a significant look Ted can’t read.

(Carol, however, can read it just fine. It screams ‘DO YOU SEE WHY I’M IN LOVE WITH THIS MAN?’ 

She does see it, she nods discreetly.)

“I’ll leave you to it, I’ve got to pick Bea up from her playdate.” She walks back to her car. “I’ll see you later, Tren.”

“Thank you, Kay.” Trent calls after her before he turns to Ted holding up the car keys. “What about that ride, then?” 

“Nah.” Ted shakes his head. “I prefer to walk, but I appreciate it.”

Trent frowns. “You waited for over 2 hours to walk home anyway?”

Ted shrugs. “It was fun.”

Trent studies him for a long moment before pulling him into a thigh hug. 

“Have a safe flight, Ted. Text me when you get there, okay?”

“Of course.” Ted hugs back just as fiercely. “I’ll see you when I get back.”

He kisses Trent’s cheek before turning and walking away.

Chapter Text

The idea comes to Trent on a Friday night while Bea’s with Carol on vacation in Brazil. All things considered, he should have known that it would always have come down to Ted. Ted has been inspiring him ever since he landed in England. 

And Trent wouldn’t have it any other way.

At about 9PM he sits down at his desk with a mug of tea to plan out what he wants to do.

He’s 10 pages deep into a book proposal and overview when he reaches for his coffee and realizes it’s empty. He takes the cup and heads to the kitchen for a refill. That’s when he catches a glance at the clock and sees it’s now 3AM. He smiles to himself, it’s been a long time since he’s been inspired enough to lose track of time like that.

Instead of fetching more coffee, he places the mug on the sink and takes out his phone to call Ted on facetime as he walks to his bedroom.

“Look who can’t sleep now.” Ted teases when he answers the phone. He’s sitting down in bed wearing soft pajamas. He looks warm and soft, Trent wants to cozy up to him more than anything.

“I assure you, I’m only awake due to copious amounts of caffeine.” He responds drily.

Ted furrows his eyebrows. “What are you doing drinking coffee at 3 in the morning?”

“I found my inspiration.” Trent says around a yawn.

“That’s great, Trent!” Ted cheers. “What is it?”

“I want to write a book.” Trent replies simply as he sits down against the headboard on his bed.

“Well, sign me up, buttercup.” Ted winks at him. “I’ll be first in line to buy it.”

Trent looks down and fiddles with his comforter. “I might need your help writing it, actually.”

“Of course.” Ted replies promptly. “I haven’t written anything since that creative writing class in college and, let me tell you, that was a bust. Suffice to say, I don’t have your talent with the written word. I believe the word ‘verbose’ was thrown around quite a bit.”

“I can’t imagine why anyone would ever say that.” Trent chuckles. “I don’t want you to write anything, Ted. I want to write about you. Well, about Richmond. Since you took over management.”

Ted doesn’t say anything immediately. For a moment, Trent thinks he might actually have shocked him into silence. “You want to write a book about us?” He says at last.

“I think there’s a story there.” Trent says softly. “Last season was one of the best I’ve ever seen Richmond play. And I think you have the potential to do something truly amazing this upcoming season.”

“You really think so?” Ted asks, his eyes shining with hope and affection.

Trent smiles. “I know so.”

“Jeez Louise, Trent.” Ted whistles, impressed. “You keep talking like that and people are gonna think you’re picking favorites.”

“I picked a favorite a long time ago, Ted.” He says sincerely. “And I don’t have to pretend I haven’t anymore.”

Ted smiles brightly. “Why do you need my help, then?”

“Well, most of all, I need your blessing.” Trent explains. “I won’t write it if you don’t want me to.”

“You’ve got it.” Ted nods at once. “I’ve always loved to read what you write about us.”

Trent feels warm and fuzzy inside. “Thank you, Ted.”

“What else?” Ted cocks his head.

“Would you be open to telling me about what your time in Richmond has been like?” He asks uncertainly.

Ted raises an eyebrow. “Ain’t that what we do all the time?”

Trent shakes his head. “You know that nothing you’ve told me out of the press room has been on the record.”

“Right. So we’ll just do what we do and you’ll write it down.” Ted shrugs. “Sounds like a great time to me.”

Trent laughs. “It does sound like fun.”

“And hey,” Ted says excitedly, “you can see first hand how we do things this upcoming season!”

“Really?” Trent blinks. “You think the team won’t mind?”

“Good point, we should probably check with them. But I’ll vouch for you if it comes to that.” Ted smiles softly. “It’d be nice to have you around.”

“It’d be nice to be around.” Trent smiles back.

“Try chatting with Rebecca after the season starts.” Ted suggests. “I’m sure we’ll figure something out.”

“You really think it’s gonna work out?” Trent asks nervously. “I only just had the idea tonight and I’ve been writing the proposal for the past few hours. I’m really excited,” he confesses, “but I don’t want to get ahead of myself.”

“I think it’s worth pursuing, Trent. I like that you’re passionate about it, that’s when you do your best work.”

“How would you know that?” Trent raises an eyebrow.

“It shines through.” Ted says like it’s obvious. “Like that article about mental health. You were so passionate about it, it turned out amazing. It’s like night and day from some of your other work last season. Except for the Richmond articles. Hey, maybe you did have a favorite!”

“Do you actually read everything I write?” Trent asks in surprise.

“Of course!”

“My parents don’t even read everything I write.” Trent points out.

“They should.” Ted shrugs. “It’s good stuff.”

Trent just stares at him, not sure what to say. Even after all this time, he still can’t quite believe Ted’s real sometimes. After long enough in silence, he realizes Ted doesn’t have anything else to add either, so he lies down on his side, propping the phone on a pillow and watches as Ted does the same.

“How’s Kansas?” He asks, unwilling to let Ted go just yet.

“It’s great.” Ted replies unconvincingly. 

Trent curls in on himself. “But…?”

“It’s not home.” Ted says quietly. “Is that weird?”

“Not at all, Ted.” Trent smiles softly. “Is it like last year?”

“It’s different.” Ted sighs. “Last year was like trying to fit back into a mold I’ve outgrown, but this time it’s like I’m taking a nice vacation. I like it here, I love how much time I get to spend with Henry. But it’s a break from my real life in Richmond.”

“It’s funny,” Trent says slowly, “Carol once told me the same thing about Brazil. She said she loves it there as a place to visit, but she wouldn’t want to live there anymore. Like she’s free to be herself here, but there she’s always bound by other people’s expectations.”

He can tell he’s hit a nerve because Ted turns to lie on his back so that Trent’s stuck looking at his profile.

“Is that how you feel?” Trent asks gently.

“I’m not sure I have a choice, Trent.” Ted tells the ceiling. “Does it matter where I want to live if Henry lives here?”

“What you want matters.” Trent says firmly.

Ted shakes his head. “We all make sacrifices for our kids, Trent.”

“Yes, we do.” Trent agrees. “But sometimes the sacrifices we’re ready to make are not the ones they need.”

Ted turns to face him again. “What do you mean?”

“I thought I was making this great sacrifice for Bea, staying closeted.” Trent shares. “I thought she needed her parents to be together, so I had to deny my own needs. Turns out that’s not what she needed at all. She needed her parents to be healthy and happy, not together. Not only am I happier now that I’ve let go of that secret, but Carol’s happier, Bea’s happier.”

“I’m not sure it’s the same, Trent.” Ted closes his eyes and Trent yearns to touch him, hold him, run his fingers through his hair.

“I’m just saying,” he says softly, “if you’re going to deny your wants and feelings, you should at least make sure that that’s what Henry needs from you.”

Ted opens his eyes to stare at him sadly. “And how do I do that?”

“Well, unlike Bea, Henry’s old enough to actually tell you how he feels.” Trent says wisely. “Maybe you can start there.”

“That’s not bad advice, Trent.” Ted gives him a rueful smile.

“I’m wounded that you expected bad advice from me.” Trent replies drily.

Ted gasps. “I would never .”

Trent laughs, but it’s quickly drowned by a yawn. “I should turn in.”

Ted goes uncharacteristically quiet.

“Ted?”

“I miss you.” He says suddenly. “Can I come over when I get there?”

Trent’s heart breaks a little. “Please do.” he smiles encouragingly. “I mean it, Ted. I miss you too. So fucking much.”

“Yeah.” Ted sighs in understanding.

“Good night, Ted.” Trent says quietly.

“Good night, Trent.” Ted whispers back. “Sweet dreams.”

Chapter Text

After Ted comes back to Richmond, he and Trent fall into an easy pattern of seeing each other every weekend. If Trent has Bea, Ted will go over to their house. Otherwise, Trent will come over to his place. 

While Henry’s there with him, he’s happy to tag along, which is how they quickly find out that he and Bea get along like a house on fire. After Henry returns to Kansas, these meetings turn into sleepovers more often than not. Those are Ted’s favorites, holding on to Trent at night is the only thing that beats seeing him everyday at work. 

On the other hand, when they wake up early in the morning it’s when Ted has the hardest time keeping himself from kissing Trent. It’s becoming a bit of a problem, if he’s being honest. But Trent hasn’t made a move, so Ted can respect his space.

He’s only distracted from it when he calls Michelle’s house one day and Dr. Jacob picks up the phone.

“Are you okay?” Trent asks him when they’re alone in the parking lot after Zava’s first game. “You looked a bit queasy for a second out there today.”

Ted just stares at him for a long time. “Buy me a drink, I’ll tell you everything about it.” He says at last.

Trent nods and leads them to his car. “This better not be about your freaky sixth toe.”

“I wish.” Ted chuckles.

They end up in a hole in the wall pub two streets down from Trent’s house, where no one will recognize the manager of AFC Richmond. Trent buys him a pint and Ted tells him about the phone call.

“They didn’t even tell me, is the worst part.” Ted plays with the condensation on his glass. “He’s been hanging out around Henry for weeks and they didn’t tell me.”

“That’s not okay, Ted.” Trent rubs his back.

Ted looks at him over his shoulder. “You really think so?”

“I think they knew that it’d hurt you to hear about it, so they put off telling you until you found out on your own.” Trent says gently. “That’s not okay.”

“He was our couple’s therapist, Trent.” Ted shakes his head in defeat.

“That’s fucked up.” Trent bites off. “Is it even legal? Surely it’s unethical.”

“Does it make a difference?” Ted shrugs. “They’re together now. I can’t bring a darn ethics committee into it. What would that do to our family?”

“I’m sorry, Ted.” Trent scoots closer and brings an arm around Ted’s back.

Ted smiles dully at him. “I appreciate ya, Trent.”

Trent guides Ted’s head so it’s resting on Trent’s shoulder and drops a sweet kiss on his hair.

It helps a little.

The phone call sticks with him for much longer than he would have wanted. Maybe it’s the fact that there’s a new man in Henry’s life. Maybe it’s the fact that it’s Dr. Jacob. Maybe it’s the fact that Dr. Jacob always sided with Michelle over him. Maybe it’s all of it together.

Whatever it is, Ted can’t seem to get over it.

“What say we get out of here?” Ted’s brought back to the present by Rebecca’s friend Sassy touching his arm.

He blinks. “Oh. I have a…” wife his mind supplies. But that’s not true, is it? His ex-wife is moving on with Dr. Jacob, maybe he should do the same. But not with Dr. Jacob. Just the moving on bit. The idea of moving on with Rebecca’s friend Sassy is immediately discarded, though. It just seems wrong, it’s not what he wants at all. 

“Someone.” He says at last. And as it leaves his mouth, he realizes how true it is. If he’ll allow himself to move on, he has someone he wants to move on to. Maybe even someone he’s already moved on to. “I have someone.” He repeats as he glances at the door, where Trent’s stepping out of the restaurant. In a split moment, he makes his decision. “If you’ll excuse me.” He nods at Sassy.

He catches up with Trent just outside the door.

“Didn’t I just say goodbye to you?” Trent asks, amused.

“Changed my mind.” Ted shrugs. “Can I walk you home?”

Trent looks surprised, but not taken aback. “Sure.”

He starts walking and Ted keeps up at his side. Ted wants to take his hand, but that’s not something they’ve done before. If he’s reading this right, though, Trent wants this too. After a moment of hesitation, he takes his hand. Trent turns his head to look at him with a confused sort of smile, but he doesn’t comment on it.

Ted’s still basking on the contact when Trent freezes a few steps later. Following Trent’s gaze, he sees Colin making out with another man against an alley wall. He feels uncomfortable watching, so he pulls on Trent’s hand to get them moving again.

“You okay there, Trent?” Ted asks when they’re far enough away.

Trent shakes his head. “What the fuck was he doing?”

“Well,” Ted nudges his shoulder, “looked to me like they were having a good time.”

Trent gives him an intensely unimpressed look. “That boy’s deeply closeted, Ted. I heard him making ‘I’m not gay’ jokes in the locker room this morning . He can’t go around kissing his boyfriend on the street.”

“No one’s gonna see him, Trent.” Ted reassures.

“ We saw him.”

“And we’re not gonna tell anyone.” Ted squeezes his hand. “Everything is fine.”

“The next person might tell.” Trent shakes his head furiously. “The next person might have a camera , Ted.”

“Hey.” Ted stops walking and turns to him. “This is really messing with you, huh?”

Trent shrugs and looks down. “I don’t want him to get outed.”

Ted takes him in a tight hug. “He’s gonna be okay.” He says into Trent’s hair. “You and I know now. We’ll help him through it, won’t we?”

“Yeah.” Trent melts into his arms. “We can help.”

“We can help.” Ted repeats. He kisses Trent’s temple before pulling away and taking his hand again.

They walk in silence for some time before Ted starts conversation about Zava and the team. It’s a pleasant chat while walking down London streets with Trent.

“Thanks for walking me home.” Trent turns to face him when they stop by his door. He doesn’t hesitate before wrapping his arms around Ted’s shoulders and holding him tight. “It was nice.”

Ted brings his arms around Trent’s waist, clinging to him as well. He takes a deep breath before admitting. “I might have had an ulterior motive.”

Trent pulls back just enough to look him in the eye, an eyebrow raised. “And what’s that?”

Ted’s eyes stray down to Trent’s lips and, for the first time, he allows himself to get lost in it. He takes a moment to study Trent’s face. His eyes, his nose, his lips, the stubble on his jaw. Everything about him is beautiful and Ted’s spent too long pretending he didn’t care. He leans in, pressing the foreheads together, mouths half an inch apart.

“You see, there’s this theory I wanted to put to the test.” He whispers.

“Okay.” Trent breathes out.

Ted finally, finally brings their lips together. He feels Trent sigh into his mouth and pull him closer by tightening his hold on Ted’s shoulders. He gladly takes the opportunity to deepen the kiss and hold on to Trent’s waist like someone might try and take him away. 

They kiss slowly for long moments before Ted pulls away to breathe, but stays close enough to feel Trent’s breath on his lips. He opens his eyes to see Trent looking at him with a dazed look.

“What theory did that prove?” He asks breathlessly as he lays his head down on Ted’s shoulder.

“You and I,” Ted brings a hand up to play with Trent’s soft hair, “we’ve been dating for the past few months.”

Trent snorts. “What gave it away?”

“Other than the weekly sleepovers?” Ted laughs and then scrunches his nose. “Rebecca’s friend Sassy propositioned me. I said I have someone,” he turns his face to kiss Trent’s hair, “and then I realized, I do have someone.”

Trent brings his head up to kiss him again. And again. And again. Until they’re full on making out on the street. Ted breaks the kiss laughing.

“Ain’t this what you were just upset at Colin for doing?”

“But we’re not closeted.” Trent whines playfully, but his expression quickly evolves into something more anxious. “Are we?”

“Not even a little bit.” Ted smiles and kisses once more.

Trent pulls away, keeping their foreheads pressed together. “You want to come inside?”

“I’d love to.” Ted smirks. “If you have a condom.”

Trent barks a laugh so loud that he actually has to stifle it into Ted’s neck as he continues to giggle. “It’s that easy, huh?” He says at last, not moving away from Ted's neck, but instead places a series of little kisses there. “One kiss and you turn into dirty Ted?”

“That was a lot more than one kiss, Trent.” Ted smiles delightedly, moving his head to give Trent better access. “And you’ve unlocked a whole new set of jokes now. So many things that’d be too inappropriate for my friend Trent Crimm. My boyfriend Trent Crimm, on the other hand…”

Trent’s head snaps back up. “Your boyfriend?” He asks hopefully.

“Unless you prefer ‘partner’?” Ted tilts his head.

“Either.” Trent kisses him quickly. “Both.” Another kiss. “Call me whatever you want.”

“Sweetheart.” Ted winks at him.

He notices the great effort Trent puts into stepping away from him and taking his hand again. “Let’s go inside.”

Chapter Text

Trent wakes up to something tickling his cheek. Wait, it’s on his forehead now. His other cheek, his nose, his chin. 

Oh! It’s a mustache! It’s Ted’s soft mustache as he places fluttering kisses on Trent’s jaw, his temple, his eyes…

“Ted.” He sighs happily.

Next thing he knows, Ted’s lips are on his and he opens up to take Ted’s tongue in his mouth. He moans into the kiss. Ted tastes sweet and minty. Trent himself probably has terrible morning breath, but Ted doesn’t seem to care. Trent brings a hand up to Ted’s hair, holding him in place.

“Good morning.” He whispers as Ted pulls his head away, still lying half on top of Trent.

“Bom dia, Freddy García.” Ted kisses the tip of his nose.

Trent opens his eyes to frown at him.

Ted laughs. “I was running out of names that rhyme with ‘morning’.” He shrugs.

Trent has to kiss him again. How could he not? Trent’s in love with a dork. 

He pulls Ted down by the hand on his hair, wrapping his other arm around Ted’s waist and pressing them close together. Ted has one hand on his cheek and the other on his hair. Trent doesn’t ever want to move again.

After a few moments, Ted moves on to pressing soft kisses all over Trent’s face again. Trent slowly melts into the mattress. 

“I’ve wanted to do this for weeks.” Ted says between kisses. “Every time I’ve woken up with you.” 

“Why haven’t you?” Trent asks, dazed. Had him been thinking, he might have avoided asking Ted to explain himself, no matter how curious he is.

“I’m not sure.” Ted stops the kissing and Trent misses him acutely. He lets out a little whine and Ted gives him a peck to the lips before lying on his side next to Trent. Trent turns to look at him as well. “I thought I was giving you space, but…” He trails off.

“But I never asked you for space.” Trent finishes for him, gently moving the hand on Ted’s hair to frame his face.

Ted turns slightly to kiss Trent’s palm. “I guess I was scared.” He shares quietly. “I wasn’t ready to move on.” He tucks a strand of Trent’s hair behind his ear. “I’m sorry I’m such a mess.”

“We’re all messes, Ted.” Trent shakes his head. “ Carol had to tell me you and I were dating. And your mess…” Trent swipes his thumb over Ted’s cheek. “It’s beautiful. It makes you, you. And you, Ted Lasso, you are exquisite.”

“Exquisite, he says.” Ted chuckles softly. “Ain’t that a 10$ word.” He kisses Trent softly. “I suppose it’s what I get for dating a writer. Hey!” He pulls away abruptly. “We should go out on a date! Like a real one, where we get dressed up to the nines and I take you to dinner out on the town. Maybe even the theater. How do you feel about musicals?”

Trent frowns. “Depends on the musical.”

“Anything you want to see.” Ted offers cheerfully.

Trent thinks about it for a long minute. “Wicked.” He says at last.

“Good choice.” Ted gives him another quick kiss to the lips. “I’ll wear pink and you can wear green and we’ll go great together. How’s Sunday? You’ll have Bea from Monday onwards, right?”

“Sunday’s perfect, Ted.” Trent moves closer, so their noses are touching. “I’d like that very much.” He says quietly

“It’s a date.” Ted breaths out and kisses him deeply. Trent gets so lost in it that he loses track of time.  “We should get up soon.” Ted whispers against his lips at last.

“Don’t want to.” Trent kisses him again.

Ted giggles as he pulls away this time. “We can stay a bit longer if we save time by showering together after.” He wiggles his eyebrows comically.

Trent snorts. “We’re too old to be kneeling on bathroom floor tiles, Ted.”

“Oh wow,” Ted exclaims in that overdramatic way of his, “your mind went right there huh? I meant I’d like to wash your hair. It seems my boyfriend has an one track mind.”

Trent laughs loudly. “You’re full of shit, Coach Lasso. Don’t pretend like that isn’t exactly what you meant.”

“I do want to wash your hair, though. We should take that shower.” Ted runs his fingers slowly through Trent’s hair. “Can I suck you off in bed, then?”

Trent kisses Ted’s wrist where it’s propped near his face. “Only if I can do you after.”

“Oh, sweetheart.” Ted kisses his cheek. “You can do me anytime.”

It’s not until they’re having breakfast after an extremely pleasant shared shower that Trent brings it up.

“What are we going to do about this Colin situation?” He says as he spreads jam on his toast. “We can’t just tell him we saw him, we’re gonna scare him off.”

“We should make sure he knows the club house is a safe space.” Ted takes a bite of his toast.

“I have just the thing!” Trent stands up excitedly to get his Snoopy mug from the cabinet.

Ted rests his head on his hand to look dreamily at Trent. “Your genius plan to show Colin he can trust us is a Snoopy rainbow mug?”

“Yes.” Trent nods and shows it off. “It’s subtle enough not to spook him, and if anyone gives me trouble for it we can set them straight.” He scrunches his nose. “So to speak.”

“It’s great.” Ted chuckles fondly before sitting upright again. “I love it.”

Trent kisses him on the top of the head on his way to go sit back down. “Thank you.”

“And I don’t think anyone will give you trouble,” Ted says seriously, “but if they do you’ll let me know, yeah?”

Trent squares his jaw. “I can handle myself, Ted.”

“I know you can,” Ted’s voice turns soft, “but those boys are my responsibility. I need to know if we had these sorts of problems on my team. And you’re part of the team now.”

“Yeah.” Trent blinks. “Right. Of course.”

They eat in silence for the next few minutes. Trent can’t help stealing little glances at Ted, as if to prove to himself that this is really happening. Ted smiles back at him every single time.

“How do you feel about public displays of affection?” Trent asks suddenly.

“Yes please and thank you kindly.” Ted nods decisively but then cocks his head. “Why?”

“I’m not saying we should flaunt our relationship around the office.” Trent fiddles with his empty plate. “But we did agree we weren’t hiding. I guess I’m just wondering what that means.”

“PDA is okay.” Ted takes his hand and pulls it up to kiss Trent’s fingers. “I’ll let you know if it’s too much or if I don’t like something, yeah?”

“Yeah.” Trent smiles. “That sounds great. Me too.”

They end up walking into the club house hand in hand and when Ted lets go of him by the staircase, he gives Trent a kiss on the cheek.

“Biscuits with the boss.” He explains.

Trent furrows his eyebrows. “You don’t have any biscuits on you, Ted.”

“Oh, shoot.” He takes Trent’s hand again, resuming their walking. “I’ll have to step by my office for my back up biscuits.” 

“Of course you have back up biscuits.” Trent laughs. “How often do you need those?”

“Any time I spend the night with you.” Ted smiles at him. “Maybe I should increase my stash now, huh?” He nudges at Trent’s shoulder.

Trent can’t help the dopey smile that grows on his face. When they get to the offices, Trent’s the one to kiss Ted’s cheek.

“I’ll see you around.” He says quietly.

“Not if I see you first, Stardust.” Ted winks at him before entering the office.

Trent goes to the kitchen to make tea on his rainbow mug.

When Trent walks into his office the next day, Ted’s drinking coffee from a bisexual flag mug.

Trent loves him so fucking much.

Chapter Text

In the 7 weeks between the West Ham match and the Man City match, 7 people take notice of Ted and Trent’s relationship. Ted doesn’t know what he expected. It’s not like they’re being secretive, then again it’s not like they’ve made an announcement. He guesses he didn’t really think about the reactions from anyone but Colin.

The first one to notice is, of course, Beard. 

The morning after Ted walks Trent home from Ola’s, Beard looks him up and down as he enters the office.

“I’m happy for you, Coach.” He nods.

Another morning, Rebecca sends him away as soon as he walks into her office and tells him ‘don’t come back without Crimm.’

He waits at his office for about 10 minutes for Trent to show up.

Trent cocks his head when he spots Ted. “You’re usually with Rebecca when I get here.”

“Apparently you’re required for biscuits with the boss today.” Tend shrugs.

Trent’s eyes widen. “That can’t be good.”

“I’m sure it’s nothing.” Ted walks up to him. “Rebecca’s very fond of her so-called ‘girl talk’. I’m sure she just has some gossip she wants to share with us.” He takes Trent’s hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze. “You good to go?”

Trent places a gentle hand on Ted’s jaw and brings their lips together on a soft kiss. “Now I am.” He steps back. “Lead the way, darling.”

They walk into Rebecca’s office still holding hands and she lets out a triumphant sound.

“Aha! That’s why I needed you both.” She points at their joined hands. “What’s that about?”

They look at each other briefly before entering the office and letting go of each other to sit on the available chairs.

“We’re dating.” Ted offers.

“Obviously.” She rolls her eyes. “But since when?”

“Ah.” Ted leans back on his chair. “That seems to be the 64 thousand dollar question.”

“Either 2 weeks or 8 months,” Trent looks over at Ted, who responds with a nod, “it depends on how you count it.”

“When you put it like that it sounds like we’ve been messing around with time travel.” Ted laughs. “Although how cool would that be if we’d spent 8 months together on some other timeline?”

“Ted.” Rebecca brings him back to focus. “Which one is it?”

“You see, boss,” Ted points at Trent with his thumb, a besotted smile on his face, “Trent here has been hitting me with increasingly date-like behavior for the past 8 months and I only just noticed 2 weeks ago.”

“How does one not notice being dated for months?” She asks around a mouthful of biscuits.

Ted shrugs. “One doesn’t question the good things in one’s life.”

“Are we in trouble?” Trent speaks up. Ted hadn’t noticed how nervous Trent had gotten since the conversation started, but the man looks like he's been called into the principal’s office and his parents are gonna arrive at any moment. Ted places a comforting hand on Trent’s thigh and he seems to slow down a bit.

“What?” Rebecca looks between them, her eyebrows furrowing. “No, of course not. Why would you be in trouble?”

Trent lets out a relieved breath. “Why did you call us here?”

“I was curious.” She says simply. “You can go now.” She waves them off, but when they stand up to go she says, “not you, Ted.”

Trent shoots him a worried look, but Ted just smiles and sits down again. Trent squeezes his shoulder on his way out.

“Are you sure you can trust him?” Rebecca asks as soon as the door is closed.

“Yup.” Ted says without hesitation.

“I know you’re quick to forgive, Ted.” She leans forward. “But that article—”

“That article was not something I had to forgive him for.” Ted cuts her off firmly.

Rebecca gives him an unimpressed look. 

“I mean it.” Ted shakes his head in exasperation. “He could have ripped me to shreds, but he didn’t. He wrote something amazing instead. And, as great as it was, he wouldn’t have published it if I hadn’t told him to. And he quit his job over it.”

“Ted, he was fired.” She says as if she was giving him bad news.

Ted stares her down. “Exactly.”

It takes a moment for understanding to dawn on her face. “Nathan.” She says under her breath.

Ted nods. “I trust him.” He reiterates. 

“Well, in that case,” she raises her biscuit as if to propose a toast, “congratulations, Coach Lasso.”

Ted beams at her. “Thanks, boss.”

Keeley barges into the manager’s offices one day when only Ted and Trent are there.

“What is this I hear about you two being a couple?” She says without preamble, pointing between the two of them.

“Ah,” Trent turns on his chair to look at Ted, “we were not participants in girl talk.”

“We were the subject.” Ted nods.

“So?” She asks expectantly. “Is it true?”

“It is true!” Ted smiles widely. “Trent and I are dating.” 

“Ted!” She runs over to hug him. “That’s amazing! How did this happen?”

“Uh.” Ted looks at Trent over Keeley’s shoulder, but the other man doesn’t seem to have an answer either. “I had a panic attack outside a karaoke joint in Liverpool and Trent helped me out, I guess?”

Trent shrugs. “It’s as good a starting point as any.”

Keeley nods enthusiastically, but then she stops abruptly. “Wait. Karaoke?” She lets him go and steps back. “Was that when we won against Everton 2 seasons ago?”

“It sure was, Kate Moss.” Ted says gleefully.

“Oh, wow. But hey! Good for you, Ted!” She nudges his shoulder playfully. “And you, Trent Crimm,” she points at Trent, “I’ll gouge your eyes out if you hurt my friend, don’t think I won’t.” She gives him a menacing stare. “Is that clear?”

“Crystal.” Trent responds drily.

She nods once and walks out of the room.

They run into Higgins at the water cooler as they’re walking down the hallway.

“Ted, Trent,” he calls, “do you know why the girls are excited about you two all of a sudden? I was under the impression you two have been together for months?”

“Oh.” Ted blinks and stops walking. “We sort of have, yes.” 

“We’re more together now.” Trent explains.

“I see.” Higgins says like someone who very much does not see. “Well, Mazel tov.”

“I’m not saying this thing you’ve got going on with the mugs isn’t adorable,” Beard comments when Trent’s bringing Ted coffee on his bisexual pride mug, “but you know that Colin’s never gonna notice them, right?”

“You told him about Colin?” Trent asks Ted, his tone just a little bit betrayed.

Beard gives Trent an exasperated look which Ted translated out loud to “Coach Beard doesn’t need to be told things.”

Trent nods, taking it in stride. “I think people are noticing.” He says after a moment. “Isaac definitely noticed.”

“Has he said something?” Ted looks at him hopefully.

“No,” Trent takes a sip of his tea, “but he’s been giving me dirty looks.”

Ted can’t contain his surprise. “Why didn’t you tell me?”

“Not that kind of dirty look.” Trent waves his concern away. “I’m pretty sure he’ll kill me if I hurt you.”

“Oh, come on!” Ted slams the table playfully. “Why is no one threatening me ?”

Trent chuckles. “I’m pretty sure Carol can kick your ass if you hurt me.”

“I’ll kick your ass if you hurt him.” Beard offers.

“Thank you, Coach.” Ted says and offers his hand so they can do their special hand shake.

I’ve just been threatened with physical pain if I hurt you!

????

By whom?

He’s here.

He’s there.

He’s every fucking where.

You can’t be serious.

As a heart attack, Fleetwood Mac.

He’s exact words were ‘don’t fuck it up.’

But I think we can both agree that’s Roy-speak for ‘you break his heart and I’ll break your face.’

Jesus.

I’m sorry, Ted.

Why?

This is great.

I’m glad people here are seeing you as one of our own.

It is kind of great, actually.

And hey.

You know what this means, right?

What?

Don’t go breaking my heart, Ted Lasso.

Trent, sweetheart.

I couldn’t if I tried.

Trent walks into the office wearing his green pants (trousers?) and a bright yellow T-Shirt, his hair up in a manbun. Ted’s speechless for several seconds.

“You need help picking your jaw off the ground, Coach?” Beard smirks.

“Oh, hush your butt.” Ted waves him off as he stands up. He crosses the offices, taking Trent by the hand and leading him to the boot room. Trent follows without comment.

“Did something happen?” He asks when the door is closed behind them.

“You look gorgeous.” Ted blurts out, causing Trent to raise an eyebrow. “It’s the T-Shirt.” He explains. “Or maybe it’s the hair. Actually,” He looks Trent over. “I think it might just be you.”

Trent cocks his head. “You like the T-Shirt.” He muses.

“And the bun.” Ted nods.

“Both of which I’m only wearing because Bea spilled juice on me this morning.” Trent sounds vaguely amused.

“Remind me to send her a thank you note.” Ted runs his hands over Trent’s shoulders and back before bringing their bodies together in a hug. “You look beautiful.” He says into Trent’s hair.

“I look unprofessional.” Trent corrects him, but his arms are around Ted’s waist, holding him snugly. 

“Pfft. Unprofessional, shm-unprofessional.” He pulls back to look at Trent. “Have dinner with me tonight. Let’s go to that Italian place we liked.”

“I can’t.” Trent sighs. “Carol has a date tonight, so I’m keeping Bea for another day.”

“Then I’ll stop by the Italian place and go to yours.” Ted offers instead.

“Darling,” Trent squeezes his waist apologetically, “we agreed on no sex while Bea’s in the house.”

“I know that!” Ted protests. “What? You think that any time I think you look good I need to jump you? We’d never get anything done.”

Trent laughs, but then his face morphs into a confused expression. “Then what is it?”

Ted shrugs self-consciously. “You look nice and I like you a lot and it’s just silly that we spend so much time apart when we could be spending it together.”

“Yeah, okay.” Trent smiles softly. “I’ll give you a ride after work.”

Ted tuts. “We just agreed to keep it PG, Trent.”

“You’re incorrigible.” Trent’s still smiling when he kisses Ted.

It starts out chaste, but it quickly becomes hungry as Ted figures that, since they’re not doing anything tonight, he might as well get some of the heat out now. He brings his hands to Trent’s ass, simultaneously squeezing it and pulling him closer. Trent moans loudly in response.

Someone clears their throat.

Shoot.

Ted breaks the kiss and hides his face on Trent’s shoulder, still breathing hard. It takes him a few moments to remember to move his hands.

“I’m sorry about that, Will.” Trent says to the ceiling.

“Sorry, Will.” Ted repeats dutifully.

“No worries.” Will replies cheerfully from behind a pile of laundry. “Happens all the time.”

Ted actually turns to look at him, but he doesn’t have it in him to move away from Trent just yet. “This happens all the time?”

“Well, not the snogging part.” Will concedes. “But people coming in here to have private conversations, happens all the time.”

Ted finally pulls away from Trent, who’s still staring at the ceiling. He takes Trent’s hand and squeezes it once in apology, Trent looks at him and squeezes back with an embarrassed smile.

“For what it's worth,” Will offers, not noticing the exchange, “I think the two of you are really sweet together.”

Chapter Text

Trent left immediately after the Man City game to go pick up Bea from his parents’. Usually, Carol takes Bea on game days, but she’s also working today, so Trent had to make alternative engagements.

They’ve been home for a couple of hours and Bea’s playing in her room when Ted knocks on the door.

“I didn’t have a panic attack today!” He says as soon as Trent opens the door.

Trent blinks. “That’s great, Ted.” He shakes his head in confusion. “Wait. Why is that great? I thought that was most days lately?”

“But I almost had one today.” Ted explains. “I felt it coming and I fought it away.”

Trent’s lips curl into a small smile at that. “That’s amazing.” He steps forward to take Ted in a tight hug. “I’m so proud of you, darling.”

Ted hugs him back for a few long moments, but when he tries to let go Trent only holds on tighter. “What’s wrong, sweetheart?” Ted asks softly.

“It’s silly.” Trent continues to not let go.

“I bet ya it’s not.” Ted brings a hand up to his head, running it carefully through Trent’s hair. “What happened?”

Trent finally lets go so they can move on from the front door. He leads Ted to the living room and they sit down on the couch, side by side but Ted’s face is turned to look at Trent.

“Bea asked what ‘poof’ means today.” He says quietly.

Ted frowns. “Like…?” He mimes an explosion with his hands.

“That’s what I thought too.” Trent scoots closer, taking Ted’s hand and intertwining their fingers. “But no. As in ‘poofter’. Turns out my father was watching the game today and he saw it fit to yell homophobic slurs at your players.”

“That’s awful, Trent.” Ted squeezes his hand.

“I don’t even know why I’m upset.” Trent shakes his head. “He doesn’t say that at me anymore. I just wish Bea hadn’t heard it.”

“Of course you’re upset, Trent.” Ted lets go of his hand in favor of putting an arm around Trent’s shoulders. “It’s hate speech. It’s meant to hurt people like us, even if it’s not targeted specifically at you. I wouldn’t want Bea to hear it either. Especially from someone she looks up to.”

Trent straightens his head to look Ted in the eyes. “Say that again.” He asks, half plea and half dare.

“It’s okay to be upset.” Ted pulls him into a proper hug, one hand still on Trent’s shoulder and the other holding his head in place. “I’m upset too. He shouldn’t be saying that, most of all around Bea.”

“It’s okay I’m upset.” Trent repeats dumbly.

Ted kisses his temple. “It’s okay.”

“And it’s okay if I don’t want her to stay with him again.” He tries to convince himself.

“I completely understand if you don’t trust him with her.” Ted agrees.

Trent presses his face in the space between Ted’s shoulder and neck. “She loves him.”

“I’m so sorry, sweetheart.” Ted runs soothing fingers through his hair.

“I don’t know what to do.” Trent confesses.

“We’ll figure it out.” Ted pulls back, his hands now framing Trent’s face as he looks his boyfriend in the eyes. “Do you wanna hear my ideas?”

Trent’s still trying to figure out what to say when they’re interrupted.

“Daddy?”

“Bea,” Trent’s head snaps to look at her by the door, “Coach Teddy’s here.”

She runs and hugs him before sitting down on the couch between the two of them. Trent hugs Bea close, but he also gives Ted a broken look over her head.

“Hey Bumble bee,” Ted calls suddenly, “can you help me with a super important mission?”

Trent feels her move to look at Ted over Trent’s arm as she makes a mildly interested noise.

“I think your daddy deserves an extra special cuddle today, don’t you agree?” Ted asks conspiratorially. 

“Why?” Bea cock’s her head.

“Well, he takes real good care of you, doesn’t he? And he takes care of me as well. So I’m thinking that between the two of us,” Ted gestures between them before nodding towards Trent, “we might be able to take care of him, dontcha think?”

And, apparently, that’s all it takes to convince her. “Do you want an extra special cuddle, daddy?” She asks enthusiastically.

“Yeah, Sweetpea.” Trent kisses her hair. “That’d be lovely.”

“What do we do?” She asks Ted.

He responds by lifting her up and placing her on Trent’s lap, on the opposite side of the one Ted’s sitting at. Trent wraps an arm around her and she leans back against him. After a moment, Ted presses into his side. His arm goes around Trent and he gently guides Trent’s head down to his shoulder. Once he’s settled, he starts running his fingers through Trent’s hair. Trent melts into it. 

Ted was right: between him and Bea, they’ve got Trent taken care of.

“What are we watching, queen bee?” Ted asks, already reaching for the remote.

“Frozen!” She cheers.

Ted finds the movie and sets it to play. When Bea’s singing along to the first song, Trent lifts his head slightly to look at Ted. “Thank you.” He says quietly.

Ted kisses the top of his head. “I’ve got you, sweetheart.”

That night, Trent drapes himself over Ted in bed, his head on Ted’s chest and their legs intertwined.

“Tell me about your not-a-panic-attack.” He asks. He really is happy for Ted that he managed to avoid a panic attack all on his own, he just wishes he’d been in a state of mind to celebrate it properly.

“I’ve been anxious about this bullying thing with Henry, you know?” Ted runs a hand up and down Trent’s back.

“I know.” Trent kisses his chest.

“And today, with the pressure of the game, it just got a bit too much.” Ted squeezes him and Trent squeezes right back.

“But…?” He prompts.

Ted takes a deep breath, “But then I did the breathing exercises the Doc taught me and I reminded myself that Henry’s okay and it calmed me down again.”

Trent smiles to himself. “That’s amazing, darling.” He props himself up on an elbow to kiss Ted softly. “I’m so proud of you.”

“You know I actually managed to talk with him today?” Ted asks after Trent breaks the kiss and lies his head down on the pillow next to Ted’s. Ted’s head is turned to look at him as well. “He said that if he’d only listened to me, none of this would have happened.”

Trent smiles. “Because you’re a good dad.”

“Yeah.” Ted smiles back. “I suppose I am.”

They stay like that for a long time, simply gazing into each other’s eyes. Trent loves this man so much, he doesn’t know what to do with it. And Ted hasn’t pulled back yet. By some miracle, he hasn’t turned Trent down. Trent has no idea how he ever got so lucky.

He’s fighting to stay awake now, the day catching up to him. But he can fight a little bit longer if it means lying here on Ted’s arms. He’s never felt this warm and safe before.

“Do you really have ideas?” He asks at long last.

Ted swipes his thumb over Trent’s cheek. “I have suggestions.”

“Can I hear them?” He hides his face back on Ted’s chest.

“You can chaperone their meetings.” Ted offers. “I know she’ll miss him if they don’t see each other. This way they can still meet, but you’ll know he isn’t saying anything out of line.”

“I might have to miss some games if we don’t find a babysitter.” Trent says ruefully.

Ted shrugs. “Bring her along.”

“She can’t be in the press box with me, Ted.” Trent shakes his head.

“Then talk with the boss,” Ted starts playing with Trent’s hair again, “I’m sure she can fit you both in the owner’s box.”

“I can’t ask that of her.” Trent yawns.

“Well, I can always take Bea to the pitch with me.” He can picture Ted wiggling his eyebrows.  “I’m sure she’ll love that.”

“You’re so ridiculous.” Trent giggles and nuzzles Ted’s chest. “I love you so much.” It takes his brain a moment to catch up with the words out of his mouth. When it does, he slaps his mouth as if he could put the words back inside. “I didn’t mean…” He trails off.

Ted hasn’t as much as stopped playing with Trent’s hair. “Did you not mean it or did you not mean to say it?” He asks gently.

“I didn’t mean to say it.” Trent hides his face further into Ted’s chest, the words coming out muffled. “I don’t mean to pressure you. You don’t have to say it back. It’s too soon.”

“It’s not too soon, sweetheart.” Ted kisses his hair. “But you have to keep in mind, you’ve had a head start on this whole knowing we were dating thing. It’ll take me a while to get to where you are.”

When he puts it like that, it sounds perfectly reasonable. “Of course.”

“But I’m glad that’s how you feel.” Ted lets go of his hair in favor of bringing both arms around Trent and pressing their bodies as close together as they’ll go. “Thank you for telling me. I think I’ve been heading there myself for a while now.”

“Good.” Trent clings to him. “That’s good.”

I don’t think I will make it to Museumnacht.

I’m sorry.

Did something happen?

Colin said he wasn’t feeling well, but he sneaked out.

I’m following him.

I’m glad you didn’t ditch me to go be a creep.

I’m hoping he’ll take advantage of the anonymity and find a queer establishment.

Is that supposed to be less creepy?

Ted.

Good luck, sweetheart.

I hope you catch Colin in the act of being gay.

I hate you.

❤️

Trent and Colin ride up on the same elevator, drunkenly leaning on each other. They walk out together and Trent stops by the first door, patting his pockets for the keycard.

Colin laughs loudly at him. “That’s the gaffer's room, boyo.”

Trent giggles in response. “I know.” He winks at Colin just as the lock beeps allowing the door to open. “Good night, Colin.” He says at the footballer’s gaping face before stepping into the room.

Ted’s already asleep, so Trent quietly disrobes down to his pants and joins him in bed, quickly pressing himself to Ted’s back. Ted turns around in his arms, bringing their faces close together.

“You’re back.” He says sleepily.

Trent holds him close. “I’m back.”

“I had to go to bed alone.” Ted pouts.

“I’m sorry.” Trent kisses that adorable pout off his face. “But I think I solved our Colin situation.”

“I think I solved our not winning situation.” Ted mumbles back.

Trent smiles. “Then it’s been a productive night all around.”

“Mhmm.” Ted makes dreamily before burying his face on Trent’s shoulder.

After a few moments, Trent feels something sharp pressing gently onto his skin. 

“Ted.” He says amusedly. “Are you biting me?”

“Sorry.” Ted pulls away.

“No, no.” Trent guides Ted’s head back to where it was. “You don’t need to stop. I was just confused, it’s all.”

“I might still be a little high.” Ted says by way of explanation.

Trent doesn’t think Ted has ever gotten high a day in his life, but he’s adorably sleepy, which is arguably better.

“Sure.” He giggles. Maybe he’s the one who’s still drunk. “Bite away.”

He feels Ted’s teeth pressing onto his shoulder again. It’s weirdly comforting. He can’t help but hope there’ll be a mark in the morning.

Chapter Text

After the team has left for the pitch, Ted stands alone on the hallway and watches Sam and his dad disappear into the gym.

“I’ve always wanted that.” He turns to see Trent standing next to him, also looking at the gym door. Ted holds the back of Trent’s neck, bringing him in and kissing his temple. 

He’s all too aware of the turbulent relationship Trent has with his father and he wishes he could help. But the ugly truth is, there’s nothing anyone can really do about it. So he tries to provide comfort. It’s not much, but it’s something.

He turns to look at the door again. “My dad died when I was sixteen.” He shares suddenly. He’s been meaning to, but the moment was never right. Doc says sharing is caring, even when one is sharing one’s traumatic past.

From the corner of his eye he can see Trent’s now looking at him. “I’m sorry.” He says softly.

“I appreciate it, sweetheart.” Ted takes his hand and takes in a fortifying breath before saying, “He killed himself.”

He can’t make out Trent’s expression, but he feels his boyfriend squeeze his hand and stand on his tiptoes to kiss Ted’s temple.

Ted turns to look at him. “You have that, you know?” He nods towards the door.

Trent frowns in response.

“You and Bea.” Ted clarifies. “I’ve seen it. Many times.”

“I guess I do.” Trent’s lips curl into a small smile. “And you’ll be with Henry for a long time to come. We don’t have to be like our fathers, right?”

“Right you are, Bob Parr.” Ted smiles in return, simply taking in the man before him for a long moment before his eyes stray back to the door. “I should go get Sam.”

Trent nods. “I’ll see you out there.” He kisses Ted’s cheek before heading to the pitch.

“Henry’s coming to visit.” Ted announces over breakfast the next day.

Trent’s head snaps up. “That’s amazing, Ted!”

“Michelle and Dr. Jacob are doing a tour of the English countryside, so he’ll stay with me for a couple of days.” He explains further.

“I don’t like Dr. Jacob.” Trent scrunches his nose. “I mean, the English countryside is beautiful, but I wouldn’t travel all the way from Kansas just to see it.”

“You’re a good boyfriend.” Ted smiles dreamily at him. “Will you go with me to meet them?”

Trent furrows his eyebrows. “You want me to meet your ex-wife and her new boyfriend who was also your couple’s counselor?”

“I’ve met Carol.” Ted argues weakly.

“Carol’s my best friend” Trent argues back. “And you’ve only ever seen her in passing.”

Ted looks down to where he’s stirring his cereal aimlessly. “Maybe I just don’t want to go see them alone.” He admits quietly.

“Then I’ll go with you.” Trent takes his hand over the table. “And you should meet Carol properly, I’ll talk with her about inviting you to family dinner.”

They hold hands and eat in silence for the next several moments as Ted considers how he’s going to say what he knows he needs to say.

“I think I’ll talk to Henry.” He decides at last.

Trent cocks his head. “About family dinner?”

“About me staying here.” Ted clarifies. “About what he wants and what we’re gonna do next season.”

“I think this’ll be a great opportunity.” Trent smiles, but Ted can see an edge of worry.

“Trent.” He squeezes his boyfriend's hand. “What if he needs me to go back?”

Trent takes a deep breath. “Then you’ll go back.”

“Yeah.” Of course, there’d be no other choice. “But what about us?”

“I don’t know.” Trent traces shapes on the back of Ted’s hand on the table. “I do know this, though,” he looks up to meet Ted’s eyes, “whatever happens, I won’t regret a second that we spent together. It’s been wonderful. You’re wonderful, Ted.”

Ted smiles ruefully. “I’m sorry I got you into my mess.”

“I got myself into it, remember?” Trent smiles back. “I saw a handsome man having trouble on a lonely night in Liverpool and strong handed him into telling me what was wrong. And it has led to one of the most amazing experiences of my life, I wouldn't change it for the world.”

“I wish I could promise I’d stay for you.” Ted offers quietly.

Trent shakes his head. “You wouldn’t be the man I fell for if you did.” He stands up and crosses the kitchen, to hug Ted's head against his stomach. “We’ll figure it out.” He says before leaning down and kissing Ted’s hair.

“Slowly but surely building a club-wide culture of trust and support through thousands of imperceptible moments, all leading to their inevitable conclusion. Total Football.”

“Well, how about that?”

“It’s gonna work.”

Ted doesn’t even try to resist the urge to take Trent’s face in his hands and bring their mouths together on a searing kiss. He gets just a bit overexcited and ends up dipping Trent and earning them a catcall from Beard.

“What was that for?” Trent giggles as he pulls away.

I love you. It’s on the tip of Ted’s tongue, but he can’t quite say it. He promised Trent he’d wait until he was sure, so he refuses to say it in the heat of the moment. Even if, if only for this moment, he’s absolutely sure he loves Trent.

“Wanted to.” Ted shrugs instead.

Trent kisses him again, more tamely this time, before moving past Ted to the locker room door.

“Doesn’t even matter what number four is.” He calls before going through.

Ted exchanges pleased smiles with Beard just as Roy says “What a fucking dork.”

“Yeah.” Ted agrees dreamily. “But he’s our dork.”

My dork. He adds privately.

Chapter Text

“If it isn’t my ex-husband and his new flame.” Carol exclaims as she opens the door.

Trent kisses her cheek as he steps around her and into the house. “Good morning, Kay.”

“Howdy, Carol.” Ted smiles brightly and offers his hand. “Thanks for having us over.” He hands her a big box of biscuits when she lets go of his hand.

Carol laughs as she takes them. “Are you trying to buy into my good graces?”

“Is it working?” Ted smirks.

“I’ll let you know after I try them.” She leads them to the living room where Bea’s lying belly down, coloring.

“Daddy!” She yelps when she sees him at the doorway.

“Hello, Sweetpea.” Trent kneels to hug her. “Look who’s here.” He points over his shoulder.

“Coach Teddy!” She runs to Ted and holds her arms up.

“Hey there, Smellerbee!” Ted picks her up and spins her around. 

Trent and Carol move towards the table and Ted follows talking animatedly with Bea. Everything’s already set for brunch, so Trent pours himself some tea before sitting down and holding out his arms so Ted can drop his daughter on his lap.

“You want some tea, Ted?” Carol asks as she pours herself a cup as well. Trent chuckles before Ted even gets a chance to answer. 

“I can’t believe they’ve lured you into that scam as well.” Ted laughs as he sits down as well.

“Ted doesn’t believe in Tea.” Trent explains.

Ted nods. “Wouldn’t drink that tree piss if my mouth was on fire.”

Now, that’s just asking for it.

Trent takes a big sip of his tea and kisses Ted deeply, earning himself a surprised gasp.

When he pulls away, Ted opens his eyes dreamily. “I take it back.” He says quietly. “Delicious stuff.”

“You two are adorable.” Carol says from the other side of the table. Trent had almost forgotten she was there. “How about coffee, Ted?”

“Yes, please, Anne Louise.” Ted finally manages to tear his eyes away from Trent.

A few moments later Carol leans over where Trent’s cutting some melon for Bea to hand Ted a cup of coffee.

“Jesus, Trent.” She laughs. “I didn’t realize you were dating a vampire.”

He instinctively raises his hand to touch the bite mark on his neck. He looks at Ted and sees he’s gone a deep shade of red. He’s taken to biting Trent since that night in Amsterdam. Mostly nibbling on whatever patch of skin is closest, but sometimes, when Trent asks nicely, he bites down deeply enough to leave a mark. 

It’s glorious.

“Oh, please.” Trent snorts. “Like I didn’t notice the hickeys you had the other week. How’s Jack, by the way?”

“He’s good.” She shrugs with a shy smile and sits back down at her place. “We’re good. I’m thinking about introducing the two of you soon.”

Trent smiles at her over Bea’s head. “That’s great, Kay. I’m happy for you.”

“Thanks, Tren. Don’t think you can distract me though.” She points at him before turning to Ted. “Are you a vampire, Ted?”

“No, ma’am.” Ted shakes his head, red still strong on his cheeks.

“So you’re not the one leaving bite marks on my ex-husband?” Carol raises an eyebrow, clearly enjoying getting Ted flustered. Trent can relate. 

“A gentleman doesn’t kiss and tell.” Ted focuses on serving scrambled eggs onto his plate. “Or bite and tell, as it were.” 

“So you’ll just let the marks do the telling for you, huh?” She teases.

Ted smirks at her. “Yes, ma’am.”

“I can respect that.” She nods in approval. 

“How did you two meet?” Dr. Jacob asks when he gets back from washing his hands.

Ted looks supremely uncomfortable still, so Trent squeezes his hand under the table and answers for him. “I used to write about Richmond for The independent.” He looks dreamily at Ted. “First time I saw him at a press conference, I thought it was a joke.” He shrugs. “Joke’s on me, I guess.”

“I am hilarious.” Ted nudges his shoulder, making him chuckle.

“So you used to write about him?” Dr. Jacob raises an eyebrow. “Isn’t that inappropriate?”

Trent barks out a loud laugh, then slaps his hand over his mouth when he realizes no one else is laughing. Dr. Jacob looks confused, Michelle looks like she wants the floor to swallow her whole and Ted looks like he’s trying very hard not to join Trent.

“Sorry.” Trent says when he can breathe properly again. “That wasn’t funny.” He shakes his head to try and convince himself. “To answer your question: yes. It was inappropriate of me to get involved with a subject. When I realized I couldn’t be impartial anymore I had to give up my job.”

He says the last part a little pointedly, but he bravely resists the urge to add a jab about Dr. Jacob losing his job as well. Ted’s trying to maintain a respectful relationship with this man and Trent will be damned if he’s the reason it doesn’t work out. He keeps his mouth busy by sipping on his tea.

“Garbage water, if you ask me.” Ted says out of the blue. “I don’t know how you drink that stuff.”

Trent shoots him a confused look. Ted insulting tea is par for the course, but not usually unprovoked. Ted’s looking at him expectantly, though. It takes him a moment to get it: Ted’s asking for a kiss. Maybe he’s seeking comfort, or maybe he’s offering it. Either way, Trent’s game. He takes another long sip of his tea before leaning in and pressing a soft kiss to Ted’s lips.

“We’ll make a tea drinker out of you yet.” He smirks as he pulls away.

Conversation, although awkwardly, flows after that and Trent almost forgets about his little hiccup. Until they’re watching Henry say goodbye to Michelle and Dr. Jacob from a distance and Ted starts giggling.

“It was funny.” He says in between giggles.

Trent buries his face in Ted’s shoulder and loses the battle to giggles as well. “It was hilarious.’’ He gets his breathing under control. “I’m sorry I made it weird.”

“Wasn’t you, sweetheart.” Ted kisses his forehead.

“I really did think he’d be more self aware.” Trent lifts his head.

“Mhm.” Ted runs his fingers over his mustache. “Wouldn’t that be nice?”

Trent scrunches his nose. “I still don’t like him.”

“You’re a good boyfriend.” Ted leans in for a soft kiss

“So… “ Trent takes Ted’s hand, interlacing their fingers. “Paris?”

“She’s always wanted to go.” Ted sighs, looking back at Michelle and Dr. Jacob getting into a cab. “At first we were too broke, then we were too busy and then… I guess I always figured we’d have more time.”

“I’m so sorry Ted.” Trent presses a sweet kiss to his cheek.

“You’re not jealous?” Ted looks at him again. “I swear I don’t want to get back together with her. It’s just…”

“I know. You don’t need to want her back for it to hurt.” Trent shakes his head. “Hell, I still feel like I missed out on some things with Carol.”

“You really don’t care?” Ted looks at him uncertainly.

“I care a great deal that you’re hurting, Ted. But no, I don’t care that it’s over your ex-wife.” Trent shrugs. “Divorce is hard.” He says simply.

“That it is, Keanu Reeves.” Ted drops his head on Trent’s shoulder.

“I could take you to Paris.” Trent brings a hand up to Ted’s hair, holding him in place.

Ted scrunches his nose. “Please don’t.”

“I could take you to Rome.” Trent amends without missing a beat. “It’s a much better city anyway. Paris smells, you know. And all those French people.” He shudders theatrically. 

Ted laughs and lifts his head to kiss the corner of Trent’s mouth. “Thank you, sweetheart.”

“We’ll go on the off season.” Trent nods decisively. “It’s gonna be great.”

I just had the talk with Henry.

I think it went well.

Yeah?

What did he say?

He likes being here, maybe enough to move.

I’ll tell you more about it tomorrow.

He’s asleep now, I don’t want to wake him.

But it was good?

He’s okay?

Yeah, it was good.

Trent.

Sweetheart.

I think we might actually be able to make this work.

I never doubted that.

Never?

That you’d stay in Richmond? Sure.

That we’d make it work? Never.

And how would you propose we make it work if I don’t stay?

Hmmm.

The power of love?

Ah.

That’s a curious thing.

Stronger and harder than a bad girl’s dream.

Seriously?

The whole song, and you had to go for the dirty line?

What can I say?

You bring it out in me.

Sure I do.

Who’s the bad girl in this scenario?

I am, obviously.

You’re always strong and hard in my dreams.

You’re a dirty man, Ted Lasso.

That’s why you love me.

One of the many reasons.

I gotta turn in.

Good night, Ted.

Good night, sweetheart.

Chapter Text

“Stevie Jewel?” Trent asks with a smirk as they get ready for bed that night.

“I know.” Ted hangs his head. “On a scale of 1 to J.K. Rowling’s twitter, how offensive was that?”

Trent laughs. “Don’t worry, you’re nowhere near Rowling.” He pats Ted’s back. “If anything, you need your own scale: the Ted Lasso scale of well meaning yet offensive anecdotes and comparisons.”

“And how would this rate on that?” Ted lifts the comforter and slips in, sitting up against the headboard.

Trent snuggles up to his side, head on his shoulder.  “Oh, it’s a ten out of ten.”

“Yeah.” Ted drops his head on top of Trent’s “That sounds about right.”

“You got there in the end.” Trent rubs his knee. “Did you see how well Colin played today? He played like a free man. Like someone who’s free to be himself thanks to the welcoming environment you created.”

“ That had nothing to do with me.” Ted laughs. “I am incredibly proud of him, though.”

“As you should be.” Trent tilts his head up for a kiss, which Ted gladly gives him. 

“You know what’s worse?” Ted says after they’ve returned to their cozy positions. “Stevie actually was queer. Openly so. I could have just talked about that.”

Trent laughs softly. “ You’re queer, Ted. You could have talked about that. ”

“I didn’t want to make it about me!” Ted opens his arms, dislodging his boyfriend.

Trent moves away giggling behind his hand. “Of course you didn’t.”

At that moment, Trent’s phone pings and he reaches for it on the side table. Ted takes the opportunity to catch up with his own texts. He’s waiting to hear back from Michelle, but there's been no new notifications since the last time he checked.

“That was Colin.” Trent says as he puts his phone away and lies down facing towards Ted. “He and Isaac patched things up.”

“Great!” Ted says overenthusiastically. He can’t bring himself to look away from his phone or lie down as well. “That’s good. I’ve been worried about those two.”

“And yours?” Trent grounds him with a hand on his hip.

Ted throws his head back to stare at the ceiling. “Michelle.” He says simply. Trent knows enough to fill in the blanks from there.

“Lie down with me.” Trent opens his arms and Ted’s powerless to get between them. 

Their faces are just a few inches apart as they look at each other. Trent’s arms are around Ted’s waist and Ted pulls the comforter over their heads before bringing his arms around Trent as well.

“She’s still undecided about the whole moving the family to England thing.” He says softly. “Henry wants to come, but Dr. Jacob’s pushing hard for them to stay.”

“Good thing it’s not his call to make.” Trent scoots closer, pressing their foreheads together.

“Isn’t it, though?” Ted closes his eyes, not that it makes a difference in the dark. “He was the one who convinced me to move here in the first place. I’m just afraid that…”

“That he’s meddled once and he’ll do it again.” Trent finishes for him. Ted snuggles closer, hiding his face on Trent’s shoulder. “You won’t let him, will you?” He kisses Ted’s hair. “You, Henry and Michelle will choose what’s best for the three of you. No one else.”

“Not even you.” Ted whispers.

“Not even me.” Trent agrees as he slips a hand into Ted’s hair. “We’ll figure ourselves out after.”

Ted nods minutely. “After.” He echoes weakly.

“We’ll make it work, darling.” Trent promises.

Wrapped in each other’s arms in the dark, Ted has no choice but to believe him.

Carol wants us to bake Bea’s birthday cake again :( 

That sounds like fun!

Can I help?

You don’t have to.

I wasn’t actually fishing for an offer.

But I want to!

I never get to bake with other people anymore.

And it’s Bea’s birthday.

I want her cake to be perfect.

Are you saying Carol and I can’t make a perfect cake?

Trent.

Sweetheart.

When was the last time you baked anything?

…

Last year, on Bea’s birthday.

I rest my case.

Let me help.

Carol wants to make her traditional Brazilian frosting, you know.

Is it a secret recipe?

No.

Then I look forward to learning it.

…

It’s okay if you don’t want me to help.

No, I do.

I want your help.

I just don’t want you to think you have to.

I don’t have to.

When are we doing this?

Saturday, 10AM.

I’ll be there.

Thank you, darling.

❤️

Ted leaves the trampoline sweaty, worn out and in dire need of water. Not to mention incandescently happy.

“Boy, oh boy.” He comments to the older gentleman by the refreshments table. “She’s just an endless well of energy, ain’t she? Then again, it’s not every day a little girl turns five.” He laughs as he pours himself a glass of water. “I’m Ted, by the way.”

“Richard Crimm.” The man says curtly. Ted vaguely regrets starting conversation with Trent’s dad without Trent present. “So you’re Trent’s…” The man trails off, unwilling to finish the sentence.

“Boyfriend.” Ted finishes cheerfully. “Or partner, since neither of us is much of a boy anymore.” Ted offers his hand. “Ted Lasso. It’s a pleasure, Mr. Crimm.”

“Coach Lasso.” Mr. Crimm shakes his hand sternly. “I’ve heard a lot about you.”

“All good things I hope.” Ted chuckles.

“I read about you in the papers.” Mr. Crimm looks him up and down. “No one ever mentions you’re a poo– a homosexual.”

“Now, why would they mention that?. It don’t impact how I manage my team in the least.” Ted keeps up the gleeful attitude. “And I actually identify as bisexual.” He adds as an afterthought.

Mr. Crimm rolls his eyes. “They have so many new words nowadays.”

“Yes, sir, they do.” Ted nods with a bright smile.

“Tell me, Coach Lasso,” Mr. Crimm takes a half step closer, his posture menacing, “what have you done to my son?”

Ted’s smile doesn’t waver. “I’m not sure what you mean.”

“He was married before he met you.” Mr. Crimm accuses. “To a nice woman.”

“I know, I’ve met Carol.” Ted agrees easily. “She’s wonderful.”

“He had a good stable job.”

“And he was good at it,” Ted’s finding it harder to keep up the positivity now, but he’s not one to shy away from a challenge, “best writer in that press room.”

“Now he has nothing.” Mr. Crimm grits out.

“Hold your horses now.” Ted holds out his hands in a placating gesture. Unfortunately, it means he spills some of the water from the glass on his hand. “Trent has a lot. A happy kid, for starters. And a best friend who loves him. And a place on the team he loves writing a book he’s passionate about.”

“He doesn’t have a wife.” Mr. Crimm shakes his head disapprovingly. “Or an actual job.”

Ted raises an eyebrow. “And you think that’s my doing?”

“Isn’t it?” Mr. Crimm challenges.

“No, sir.” Ted replies truthfully. “I can’t take credit for the changes Trent made to his life. He was unhappy and he had the courage to change. You should be proud.”

“Proud?” Mr. Crimm blinks.

Ted looks over at the grass where Trent’s playing some approximation of football with Bea. They’re both terrible, but they look so happy Ted’s heart could burst. “He’s something else, your son.” He allows the love to shine clearly on his face and voice.

“I was proud of him before.” Mr. Crimm mumbles.

“Sir.” He looks back at Mr. Crimm. “If I may, Trent’s happier now. Isn’t that what matters in the end?” 

“He was happy before.” He snaps.

“Let me put it this way.” Ted’s voice grows more serious than at any point in the conversation, but he still doesn’t allow the friendly smile to slip from his face. “You love your son, right? That’s why you care so much about what he does with his life, ain’t it?” 

Mr. Crimm nods begrudgingly, which Ted takes as a win. 

“I love him too.” Ted smiles gently. “Now, we can argue over the right and wrong ways to love someone. Or we can both agree to love and support Trent as he is rather than demanding he becomes someone else.” Ted offers his hand again. “What do you say?”

“You told him not to leave Bea with me anymore.” Mr. Crimm says quietly, staring at the floor.

Oh.

That’s what this is about. It’s not really about Trent and it’s definitely not about Ted. It’s about Bea. The man misses his granddaughter. 

Now, that Ted can work with.

“I didn’t.” He says softly. “Trent decided on that by himself. It breaks his heart, you know. He knows you love her.”

“Then why won’t he let me see her?” Mr. Crimm looks up at him, his eyes pleading.

Ted gives him a rueful smile. “You know why, Mr. Crimm.”

He eyes Ted’s hand warily. “Will you tell him I’m trying?”

“Yes, sir. I will.” Ted nods easily, which is apparently enough to convince Mr. Crimm to shake his hand. “You know what they say, though. ‘Do. Or do not. There is no try’.”

Mr. Crimm nods uncertainly and takes his hand back. “I’ll do better than try.”

Ted smiles at him before he finishes his water and runs to join Trent and Bea on the pitch.

That night, Ted lies on his back and Trent lies with his head on Ted’s chest. Thankfully, Bea’s gone home with Carol, so the two men have no obligations other than resting on each other’s arms as they recover from the excitements of the day.

“I talked with your dad today.” Ted says quietly.

“I’m sorry.” Trent snuggles closer.

“It wasn’t bad, really.” Ted moves his hand up and down Trent’s back. “He asked me to tell you he’s trying.”

Trent sighs. “I know he is. Did he call you any names?”

“Almost.” Ted concedes. “He caught himself in time and ended up calling me a homosexual.”

“Which you’re not.” Trent points out.

“He didn’t know that.” Ted defends. 

He’s not sure why he’s doing it, but it feels important. Trent’s relationship with his dad is by no means mended and there’s a long road ahead before Trent feels comfortable thrusting him with Bea. But the man is trying. That’s not nothing. 

“It’s progress.” Ted explains. “He shook my hand, Trent. I told him that I love you and he still shook my hand.”

Trent’s head snaps up to look at him. “You told him what?”

“I know. I’m sorry.” Ted smiles guiltily. “I should have told you first, but I’ve been waiting to know for sure.” He tucks Trent’s hair behind his ear. “And he was going on and on about the changes you’ve made lately and you’re just so brave and I’m so proud and I just knew.”

“Then say it.” Trent breathes out.

Ted frames his face and kisses him, slow and deep. “I love you, Trent Crimm.” He whispers as he pulls away. “I’ll show you just how much when we’re not half asleep.”

Trent giggles. “I love you too.” He drops his head back on Ted’s chest, nuzzling the skin there. “So fucking much.”

Chapter Text

Trent wakes up naturally and he just knows it’ll be a while before his alarm goes off. Not that he minds: he’s ridiculously happy. But he can’t really remember why. He rolls over and his arm falls over Ted where he’s sleeping belly down.

And then it hits him.

Ted.

Ted said it last night. ‘I love you, Trent Crimm.’ Trent was 99% sure that that was the case already, but hearing him say it… Trent didn’t know five little words could make him this happy.

He kisses Ted’s shoulder where it’s closeset to him. He proceeds to press soft kisses down his shoulder and up his neck. Halfway through, he moves to straddle Ted’s thighs, resting part of his weight on him in a way he knows his boyfriend appreciates.

“Trent.” Ted sighs happily, still mostly asleep. 

“Good morning, darling.” Trent whispers in his ear.

“Hmm.” Ted turns his face so that Trent can just about kiss his lips. “Mornin’.”

“Say it again.” He presses a sloppy kiss to the sweet spot behind Ted’s ear and earns himself a soft moan.

Ted makes a confused sound. “Good morning?”

“No.” Trent chuckles. “The thing you said last night.”

“Oh.” Ted reaches behind his back to place a gentle hand on Trent’s hair. “I love you, sweetheart.”

Trent nuzzles his neck. “How much?”

“More than peanut butter.” Ted massages his scalp, his eye falling closed again.

Trent scoffs. “You can do better than that.”

“More than barbecue sauce.” He guides Trent’s head down to his shoulder and Trent knows what he’s asking for but he refuses to give in so easily.

He nibbles softly on Ted’s skin. “You’ll earn yourself a proper bite if you do better. You promised to show me just how much, remember?”

“I love you, Trent.” Ted whines. “More than I can describe.”

Trent bites down gently, but deeply enough to leave a mark. Ted sighs in response.

“Want to be inside you.” Trent whispers when he lets go. “Can I fuck you, Ted?” He runs his hands up and down Ted’s sides. He just needs to be close to Ted. As close as humanly possible. Closer, if he can.

“No.” Ted sighs.

“You want to take me instead?” Trent nuzzles his neck some more. He doesn’t think he could stop touching Ted if he tried.  “Give you anything you want.”

“Want you to make love to me.” Ted says dreamily.

Trent shivers. “God, you’re so corny.” He says in utter adoration. “I love you so much.”

“How much?” Ted teases.

Trent smirks. “More than tea.”

“Boooo.” Ted actually blows a raspberry. Trent bites him again, on his neck this time and not hard enough to leave a mark. He can’t help it, it’s like his affection has nowhere else to go.

“More than football.” He whispers against Ted’s skin.

That seems to give Ted pause. “Really?” He asks quietly.

“I love you.” Trent lays his head next to Ted’s on the pillow, far enough that he can’t look into his boyfriend’s eyes. “More than I ever thought was possible.” He confesses.

Ted kisses him then, hot and deep. The angle is awkward, but so worth it. Trent gets to kiss the man he loves. Because Ted loves him back. God, Trent’s so happy.

“You gonna love on me, sweetheart?” Ted says against his mouth. “I got some of that lube you liked.”

Trent smiles as he lightly touches Ted’s beautiful face, running his thumb through that gorgeous mustache. “Strawberry?”

“And chocolate, if you wanna try it.” Ted kisses his palm.

“Best boyfriend in the world.” Trent kisses him again before reaching for the side table and getting to work.

About 37 ‘I love you’s later, Trent’s holding Ted’s hand and smiling dopily at his boyfriend as he speaks to every single person in Richmond. Including, apparently, Ted’s Mom.

Ted tenses up as soon as he sees her, he hangs on to Trent’s hand like a lifeline. Ted introduces them stiltedly and by the time they’re back at the flat Trent has given up on trying to keep Ted calm by stroking his hand and has moved on to discreetly rubbing circles on his back.

Ted still looks like he’s about to blow.

“How about you just stay here for the rest of your trip, all right?” He’s saying to his mum.

“Only if I’m not a hassle.” She puts on a token protest 

Trent himself has to take a deep breath. It’s not her fault, he’s sure. She probably doesn’t realize how this riles Ted up. Or she doesn’t know how to stop it. Either way, all Trent can do is take a step closer to his boyfriend and redouble his efforts at comfort.

“You’re not a hassle, mom, okay?” Ted insists again. “Please stay here.”

Trent wants to protest, but he also doesn’t want to interfere. His indecision comes out as a high pitched noise.

“Do you have a problem with this?” Ted snaps at him, followed immediately by an apologetic look.

“Only that you’ve only got the one bed.” Trent says gently, making sure to broadcast that they’re okay.

“I know.” Ted sighs. “I’ll take the couch.”

“I’ve slept on your couch, darling.” Trent turns to Ted a bit more. Mrs. Lasso’s just watching them at this point, it’s making him self-conscious. “It’s not fit for a grown man to sleep on.”

Ted huffs and buries his face in his hands. “What do you suggest?”

“I have a guest bedroom. You’re both welcome to stay with me.”

“You don’t have to.” Ted looks at him gratefully, even as he protests. 

That’s one theory proven, then. Lassos just can’t help themselves with the over the top politeness.

“I’m well aware.” Trent rolls his eyes playfully. “Only if you two are comfortable, of course.” He turns to Mrs. Lasso as well. “And I don’t have to be there, we can trade homes for a bit if that’s better.”

“I’m not kicking you out of your home.” Ted scoffs.

Trent shrugs. “I was planning to stay here this week anyway. And Carol’s got Bea for the week. That’s my daughter,” He adds for Mrs. Lasso’s sake, “this is her week with her mum.”

“Mom,” Ted looks at her, “is that okay with you?”

“Yeah, Teddy.” She assures, looking curiously between them. “Whatever you think is best.”

“Okay. Good. We’re all staying at Trent’s, then.” Ted nods to himself. “Thank you, sweetheart. I appreciate it.” He gives Trent a soft kiss before turning back to his mum. “We’ve gotta get to work.”

Trent wakes up to the familiar sound of someone baking in his kitchen. He turns around in bed expecting to find it empty, but finds Ted fast asleep next to him. He panics for a moment before he remembers he currently has two Lassos staying at his home.

He checks the time: 5AM. It’s unlikely he’ll be able to fall asleep again, so he gets out of bed and goes downstairs.

“Good morning, Mrs. Lasso.” Trent says from the kitchen doorway. “I see that the early morning baking runs in the family.”

“Good morning, Trent.” She replies cheerfully. “What do you mean it runs in the family?”

“Oh, you know.” Trent shrugs and doesn’t register her reaction as he moves to the coffee maker. “I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve woken up to the smell of biscuits. Or cookies, as he calls them. Coffee?”

“Oh, if it’s no trouble.” She says sweetly. “I hope I didn’t wake you.” 

“I’m an early riser by nature.” Trent assures.

He makes his coffee in silence, watching from the corner of his eye as Mrs. Lasso gets the dough into the oven.

“So.” She says at last. “Ted tells me you’ve got a daughter?”

Trent blinks. He’s almost sure he told her that himself, but this is fine too. “Yes, ma’am.” He pours their coffees and brings them to the counter. “She just turned 5.”

“Oh, that’s a lovely age.” Mrs. Lasso smiles and sits down next to him. “You know my Ted’s got a son too?” She asks like there’s an actual chance that Trent doesn’t know it.

“Yeah.” He replies slowly. “I’ve met Henry. And Ted talks about him all the time.”

“Of course he does.” She takes a sip of her coffee. “So you know what it’s like.”

Trent has no earthly idea what she’s talking about.

“Parenthood?” He asks, and she nods in response. “I have some idea, yes.”

“So you know, right?” Trent does not. “That Teddy can’t stay here forever.”

It hits him like a knife to the chest. He knows this is a likely scenario, of course. He’s made his peace with it. But it’s 5AM and his coffee hasn’t even cooled enough to drink yet. He was not ready to have this conversation with his boyfriend’s mum.

“Excuse me?”

“A boy needs his dad.” She smiles kindly, it’s so much like Ted it actually scares Trent. “I’m sure you understand.”

“I have no intention of keeping Ted and Henry apart, ma’am.” Trent squares his shoulders, drawing courage from God knows where. “I love your son. As much as I want him to stay here for a long time, I’m not going to love him any less if that turns out to be impossible.”

She studies him for maybe half a second before nodding. “Okay.” She says simply and then changes the subject like this conversation never happened.

By the time the bread is ready, Trent’s questioning whether it happened at all.

Chapter Text

It’s past midnight when Ted gets back to his AirBnb after many, many hours of discussing future living arrangements with Michelle and Henry. He goes straight to bed, falling face first into the pillows as he gets out his phone.

“How did it go?” Trent picks up in the first ring, not bothering with a greeting.

“You should try baking.” Ted turns on his side, a smile on his face. “It’d help with that impatience of yours. I never would have been able to master macarons with an attitude like that, you know.”

“Good thing I have no dreams of making macarons, then.” Trent replies drily.

“C’mon, sweetheart.” Ted whines. “That’s not how this goes.”

“ This is silly.”

“You love silly.” Ted points out.

Trent’s silent for a few long moments and Ted can hear the gears turning on his mind until he finally admits: “I do.”

“Then be silly with me.” Ted feels the urge to nudge him, but he refrains.

“Fine.” Trent sighs. “Hello, Ted.”

“Howdy, Trent.” Ted answers cheerfully.

“Can’t sleep?” Trent asks quietly, suddenly changing the tone of the conversation. Ted turns off the lights to match the new mood.

“I just got back from Michelle’s.” Ted snuggles into his pillow. And if he’s imagining it’s Trent instead, that’s no one’s business but his own.

“I take it it was good?” Trent asks anxiously. “You wouldn’t keep me in suspense if it was bad.”

“It’s good.” Ted confirms.

“Good.” Trent takes a relieved breath. “Tell me how it went?”

“They’re moving to London.” Ted smiles in the dark. “And I’m asking Rebecca for a long term contract, so we won’t have to move again while Henry’s still in school.”

“You’re staying in Richmond?” Trent asks breathlessly, like he can’t quite believe it’s true.

“I’m staying in Richmond.” Ted repeats. “With company.” He adds gleefully.

“Fuck me,” Trent relaxes into the mattress. “I’m so happy.”

“Later, sweetheart,” Ted laughs, “talk first.”

“Oh, shut up.” Trent giggles as well.

“Whatever happened to ‘we’ll figure this out’, huh?” Ted teases. “You were so sure.”

“We would have figured it out if we had to.” Trent huffs, his tone turning serious. “I would have happily lived out of texts and holiday visits and phone sex. Doesn’t mean I’m not glad we don’t have to.”

Ted can’t argue with that. Not when he feels the exact same way. “I’m glad too.” He admits.

“What did they actually say, though?” Trent asks after a moment. “Why did Michelle change her mind?”

“She didn’t, really.” Ted shrugs. “She was always onboard, she knew it was part of the deal with me being a coach since before we got married. Dr. Jacob was the one pushing back. Turns out he’s not a factor anymore.”

“They split?” Trent asks, surprised.

“Yes, they did, Kevin McKidd.”

“About fucking time.” Trent cheers.

“Trent.” He chides.

“Sorry.” Trent apologizes half-heartedly.

Ted snorts. “No, you’re not.”

Trent chuckles in response. “Why did they break up?”

“Now,” Ted tuts, “you know I don’t like to gossip.”

“Ted.” Trent calls him out on his bullshit. Ted can’t help but smile at how well his partner knows him.

“Apparently, she didn’t like that he was acting like this was his choice to make.” Ted fiddles with the edge of his pillow. “She said something about it being too much like what he said about me moving to England while we were still in therapy.”

“That’s what you’ve been saying the whole time.” Trent offers softly.

Ted takes a deep breath. “Yeah.”

“You were right.”

Ted closes his eyes, finally allowing himself to believe it. “I was right.” He breathes out.

“How do you feel, darling?” Trent asks quietly.

“Tired.” He admits without hesitation. “Good tired, you know. Happy. But this whole moving discussion took so much out of me, sweetheart. I’m all hallowed out.”

“I know.” Trent replies gently. “It’s been a long road, but you got there, Ted. You can rest now.”

“I miss Home.” Ted curls around himself. With his eyes still closed, it’s easy to let the world be reduced to Trent’s voice in his ear.

“Home?” Trent asks, surprised and hopeful.

“Where you and I and Henry and Bea are all together.” He explains.

“Home.” Trent repeats wistfully. “We’ll be back there soon. In the meantime, I can help you with one of those things, at least.”

“Oh, yeah?” Ted responds innocently.

“Yeah.” Trent purrs. “Hang up the phone, love.” 

“I love you, sweetheart.” Ted says in place of goodbye, but Trent has already disconnected the call.

Before Ted’s had the opportunity to protest, Trent’s turning around and pressing his chest to Ted’s back. “I love you too, my darling.” He whispers in Ted’s ear.

Ted turns around in his arms. “You hung up on me.” He pouts.

Trent rolls his eyes. “I didn’t fly all the way to Kansas to talk with you on the phone , Ted . ”

“Thank you for coming with me, by the way.” Ted kisses him softly.

“Isn’t this what we do?” Trent asks against his lips. “We’re in this together.”

“Yeah.” Ted pulls away to look him in the eye. “Move in with me.”

Trent blinks. “Really?”

“Trent. Sweetheart.” Ted tucks a lock of hair behind his boyfriend’s ear. “Let’s build our Home, the four of us together.”

“I’d love nothing more.” Trent whispers before sealing it with a kiss.