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Chapter Text

Buck took a sip of the drink Nico had served him and pulled the mug back, blinking in surprise at it. The brown surface with bubbles looked like your average hot chocolate. But it sure didn't taste like it. He brought the glass to his nose and sniffed. It didn't smell like it either. Under the sweet and dark aroma of chocolate and milk was something else that teased at his senses but he couldn't pinpoint it. He tilted the cup a bit and flicked his tongue out to lick at the liquid, his taste buds humming at the flavor.

His gaze shifted up to look at the man calmly leaning against his balcony railing. He took in the bare feet that felt strangely sexy to him, traveled up the black trousers that fit him just right, up what he knew to be a flat stomach, the dusting of dark hair on his chest peeking through thanks to his shirt being unbuttoned halfway, up the taut neck brushed with a day's stubble, up that sharp jawline that he dreamed of BITING, to those full pink lips that were spread with that familiar amused smirk he seemed to wear often and WELL, up further over that regal nose to meet those dark sexy eyes that... Were staring right at him.

Buck cleared his throat and shifted.

“Ice on the eye, Buckley.”

Buck shivered as that amused deep voice felt like fingers trailing up his back. He wanted to ask if Nico had ever considered quitting his lucrative career in finance and marketing and becoming an erotic book reader instead. If coupled with one of his sexy Instagram thirst traps he would mint money hand over fist while people used their hands and fists to… he pressed his lips together and shook his head wincing at the sharp pain that sent through his head and face.

“What’s in this?” He asked to distract himself from his intensely horny thoughts about his neighbor. When he was operating at 100% he could easily behave himself and treat Nico like a bro but anything below 95% and he began flirting by degrees. And considering Nico seemed to flirt as he breathed, but with his eyes and brows and not his mouth, well it was just too easy to make a crap day better by indulging in some shameless flirtation and eye fuckery with the man.

Buck swallowed another sip as Nico spread his arms on the railing and tilted his head up to the sky. 

“What does it taste like?”

Buck's tongue flicked out to drag across his bottom lip. “Fire,” he breathed.

Nico lowered his head and stared straight at him. “Yup.” A slow smile spread across his lips.

Buck's lips parted, pure WANT zipping and sliding through him like melted chocolate. “What?” He croaked.

“Chili chocolate,” Nico said softly. 

Buck blinked rapidly trying to focus on Nico’s words and not on his overall Nico-ness. “Chili chocolate. You put chili in chocolate ?”

“I put Chili chocolate in your hot chocolate.”

“Chili chocolate is a thing that exists in the world?” Buck asked wondering if Nico was fucking with him or if the drugs the hospital had given him were working a little too well.

He watched Nico take a sip out of his cup, the glint of his damp lips doing things to Buck that he'd really rather not think about just then. Those thoughts belonged in the shower with him or in his bed. At this point, he was long past being ashamed of the hard-on lust he carried for his neighbor.

“It does.” Nico tilted his head, “Would you like a taste?”

“Of you?” Buck murmured, touched that Nico felt so bad for him that he wanted to reward him with him. He blinked. That didn't sound right. From any angle. “Um.”  

Nico threw his head back and laughed, the sound making Buck want to weep and worship at the altar of this man. Why oh why was this happening to him?! Why today?! He swallowed when Nico straightened up and closed the distance between them in two steps. 

He took another sip of his fascinating hot chocolate and hoped like hell that it gave his current Windows brain time to reboot into something Apple rapid functional. He cautiously told himself to suck it up and looked at Nico. Then told himself to stop thinking of sucking Nico. “Of it?” He offered tentatively as he met those eyes that looked more delicious than the chili chocolate goodness sliding down his throat.

Gentle fingers touched his jaw, and a slight pressure was used to tilt his head up. “You have no right to be this goddamn adorable while hopped up on pain pills, Buck.” He pulled the mug from Buck’s unresisting fingers, “Come on, we're going inside. I don’t trust you out here in your current state.” 

Buck just stared dumbly at him. Was Nico taking him home with him? He'd go anywhere with Nico. Follow him everywhere. And adorable? What the fuck? Here he was lusting on main and being utterly fucking obvious thank you very much about his hard-core long-term crush on the man and he dared call it adorable? People thought Buck of as hot, and sexy, a himbo, huggable biceps, and an ass that didn't quit but Nico thought him adorable ? He tried not to sulk but was probably unsuccessful.

He stared at the hand held out to him. He slipped his hand into Nico’s and stood up, following him inside.

“Are you taking me home?”

Nico turned to look at him over his shoulder, “You are home.” 

Buck frowned and looked around. That’s right. This was his home. With Nico in it. Nico was in his home. Posing around like the hot model he should be. He could be a finance model. Was that a thing? All sharp suits and sexy shirts unbuttoned to hint at his chest.

“You should be a model,” he blurted out.

“ Ay Dios ,” he heard muttered from somewhere.

Nico smiled that little smile of his that Buck adored and led him to the couch, “Should I?”

“You should,” Buck insisted. “You wear all the clothes so well.” He allowed Nico to make him sit on the couch. He blinked as those hands gently placed the cup of fire-liquid-happiness back in his hands. 

“You hold this properly, Buck. It’s hot.”

“You’re hot,” he mumbled and brought the cup close. He heard a whisper, ' Cosa ne farò di te?' Why was his inner voice speaking different languages today? 

“What should Nico model, Buck?”

Buck reared back slightly. That was Eddie’s voice. When did Eddie get there?

A sigh, “I’ve been here the entire time.”

Buck took another lick of his drink. “Underwear.”

He squinted when two sets of dark eyes focused on him. He was sure he wasn’t seeing double. The eyes were different. One looked like caramel cocoa beans and the other looked like dark-chocolate-brandy-velvet-liquid-sin.

“You’re wearing underwear,” Eddie said slowly. He looked at Nico, “You’re clearly dark-chocolate-brandy-velvet-liquid-sin.”

“I’ll be sure to change your contact in my phone, Mr. Caramel cocoa beans.”

Buck loved Nico’s flat tone. It said so much without saying so much.

“Yes, I say it best when I say nothing at all,” Nico said.

Buck blinked and nodded. “Brow speak.”

Eddie laughed, “Your murder brows scared the heck out of that nurse.”

“Not my proudest moment intimidating someone just doing their job.”

“Yeah, you seemed distraught,” Eddie rolled his eyes.

Nico shrugged, “It got the job done and we got access to him, didn’t we?”

“You should be a model. Like with Calvin Klein,” Buck declared, wanting Nico’s attention back on him. He took another sip of his liquid sin, “Or Armani.” he peered at Nico, “Which underwear do you wear?”

Eddie snickered, “Buck, stop.”

Buck shook his head slightly, “No, he wears this particular brand and then stands out on the balcony on the phone while wearing it.”

“And you know this how?” Eddie asked curiously.

Nico smacked Eddie’s arm with the back of his hand, “Stop encouraging him, he’s floating on the happy pills.”

“What?” Eddie smacked him back, “He’s my best friend, I’m allowed.”

“Insta,” Buck said sagely. “I know you’re like allergic to technology, Eds, but insta is a world of gold.” He whispered, “Nico posts the most delicious thirst traps I don’t even know for who on there. In one of them he was standing in these deep dark boxer briefs and an open white shirt out on the balcony just lounging,” he trailed off and sighed dreamily.

A sudden thought occurred to him and he sniffed, “You’re so pretty Nico. I hope you know that.” His eyes met the dark-eyed stare, “I hope someone tells you often that you’re beautiful and you’re so smart and kind and nice. People shouldn’t look past your marshmallow ness just because you have Resting Murder Face.”

“Marshmallowness?” Eddie asked curiously, glancing at Nico.

Buck leaned forward, “Nico has a marshmallow core. All soft and squishy and gooey and sweet.” And then his thoughts put on a pair of skis and took right off down a slope named ridiculous, “And you can toast it and roast it and make it gooier and more suckable and -”

Gentle fingers pressed against his lips. Buck blinked and looked at Nico now sitting beside him.

“That’s enough for now, Buck,” Nico said gently. 

“Why?” Buck mumbled from behind his fingers.

“Yeah, why? This has been getting better and better,” Eddie chimed in.

“Bite me, Diaz,” Nico muttered. 

Buck pouted. Nico wanted Eddie to bite him.

Nico’s fingers slid off his lips to cup his jaw, “How about we save your thoughts for when you aren’t under the effects of medication? Does that sound acceptable to you, Evan?”

Buck leaned into Nico’s touch, “Why don’t you want me to bite you?” He ignored Eddie’s laughter.

“What?”

“You told Eddie to bite you. Why don’t you want me to bite you? I don’t think I can handle being your friend-zoned friend if you’re going to let my best friend bite you. I’m not that good of a friend or human.” He looked at Eddie then winced as the movement hurt his head and then at Nico, “I have to break up with both of you if you hook up. Or date. Or bite.” He grabbed Nico’s hand and slotted his face back against his fingers. “I know that’s not right but I’m human and flawed. A flawed human with squishy feelings.” He winced at the dull ache in his head and eye, “And a squishy face.”

“I’m sad Christopher is missing this entertainment. It’s not age appropriate for him which is the only thing making me feel better about it.” Amusement oozed out of Eddie’s tone.

“ No me jodas ahora mismo ,” Nico muttered.

“I knew you understood what I was saying that day,” Eddie hissed.

“Focus,” Nico hissed back. He looked at Buck, “Eddie and I are not dating, not planning to date, or hook up. I -”

“Or bite each other?” Buck asked hopefully.

Nico sighed, “Or bite each other. I promise you, there is not enough money in the world to make me hook up with that man.” He glanced at Eddie, “No offense, brother.”

Eddie nodded, “None taken, brother. And ditto.” He glanced over Nico, “Well, maybe some money would have but none since my bestie is all about you.”

“Be still my heart,” Nico muttered deadpan, making Eddie laugh.

Buck felt better hearing it from them both. He shivered when a gentle thumb brushed along his cheek. 

“Can we please have this conversation when you’re not hurting?”

“As long as we have it,” Buck mumbled. 

“Drink your milk, Buck,” Nico murmured. “And you, don’t just lounge there enjoying the show. Come hold the ice pack on his face. He clearly isn’t interested in doing it himself.”

“Me?” Eddie asked even as he moved and sat down beside Buck. “Why can’t you do it?”

“Best friend privileges,” Nico said flatly. 

Buck took a sip of his fire chocolate and sighed as it went down his throat smoothly just as Eddie pressed the ice pack to his face, “Fire and ice.”

Nico looking on as Buck rambles on in the most adorable fashion

Eddie having given up on stopping Buck rambling on at Nico. He tried. He's tired ok? And it's amusing.

Chapter Text

Buck whimpered. Eddie who was following Buck out the door did not expect him to have suddenly stopped and grumbled as he bumped into him. 

“Dude,” he shoved him. Eddie loved his best friend, don’t get him wrong, but Buck using his frustration over 2020 to bulk up and up had made it difficult for Eddie to shove and tug him around. He wished he didn’t have to. But one look at the man standing braced by the elevator casually chatting away told him it was a shove-and-tug kinda day. “Evan Buckley you move your ass right now,” he growled lowly.

Buck sighed longingly and began trudging toward the elevator. Now that Eddie was paying attention he could see why the man posed like a supermodel at the elevator had reduced his friend to a lust-love-drenched fool.

Nico Rossi stood there dressed in running shorts, his tank top glued to his body with sweat. Eddie was secure enough to admit that he almost wanted Nico to shake his head out in slow-mo so he could watch the man’s sweaty hair do the sexy shake thing. ‘Enough, Diaz, one idiot between you two is enough.’ 

“Nico,” he said pleasantly.

Those beautiful eyes with that intense stare turned to look at them. “Hello gentlemen, these lovely ladies were generous enough to hold the elevator for you two.”

Eddie knew he wasn’t imagining it when Nico’s eyes perused Buck from head to toe and back. 

“Hi,” Buck sighed. 

Eddie refrained from facepalming and dug his elbow into Buck’s back. Could he sound any more lust-love drunk? Knowing Buck, he absolutely could, and if Buck wanted to pretend and hold onto his straight bro-to-bro friendship with Nico he needed to snap out of it.

Nico stepped back several steps to let them move into the elevator. His eyes locked on Buck’s. “Thank you, ladies, for being patient enough to allow LAFD’s finest to saunter in.”

Both the women laughed and waved at Nico who waved back as the doors began to close.

Eddie couldn’t be the only one who noticed that Nico had not taken his eyes off Buck. He blew out a relieved breath, they were safe. 

“Bye Nico!” Buck blurted out unnecessarily loudly considering the man was right there.

“Bye, Buck,” Nico’s voice carried to them through the closed doors.

Eddie closed his eyes and refrained from pinching the bridge of his nose as Buck swooned. This no-touching self thing was getting old. How was he meant to express his exasperation with his boy’s behavior?!

“He looked so good,” Buck gushed softly. “That stubble,” he trailed off with a sigh.

Eddie saw the women exchange a look. “He was wearing a mask, bud, you didn’t see any stubble,” he pointed out wondering if this was a ‘Buck will listen to sense and snap out of it’ kinda day or a ‘Buck is in the zone of his hot neighbor and will lust-love over his beauty’ all day.

“He just had that look that felt like a stubble day,” Buck said seriously. "It can't be a beard day since he shaved the day before."

When the women exchanged another look, Eddie looked at them, wanting in on the action of silently mocking his best friend. One of the women tilted her head toward Buck and raised her eyebrows. Eddie shrugged and lifted his arms in a ‘what can you do’ motion.

“And he was wearing black.”

Here we go. “It’s Nico, he’s worn black like 90% of the time we’ve seen him in casual clothes,” Eddie pointed out. Probably unnecessarily. Cause lustlove mode had been turned on.

“I’d wear black all the time too if I made it look as good as he did,” Buck murmured.

The women looked at him in what he assumed was open-mouthed surprise behind her mask. ‘OMG,’ he assumed the blonde had mouthed at him while moving her hands.

‘I know right?!’ Eddie mouthed back hoping his hands conveyed his emotions.

“Eddie!”

Eddie snapped to the left and found Buck standing in the lobby. He realized the elevator had stopped and he was just standing there with the ladies.

“Uh, bye!” He said and hurried out and across the lobby.

“OMGeeee!” Beth squealed as they watched the hot firefighters walk away.

Lyly smacked Beth’s arms, “Keep it down!” she hissed even though Beth’s voice had been somewhat muffled by the mask she had on. She was relieved the two guys hadn’t heard Beth. She looked at her, “Aren’t we a bit old to be using OMG as OMG?”

Beth frowned, “What’s wrong with OMG? We’re Gen Z, it's our time in this universe given right!”

Lyly tilted her head, “I think we got OMG from the millennials? Didn’t we like see it in that movie Mean Girls?” 

Beth blinked her big blue eyes up at Lyly, “Does it matter? Why are we talking about O-M-G rather than what caused the O-M-G?”

Lyly blinked and shook her head, “You are, of course, right as usual, baby.”

Beth smiled and leaned into her, “Who would believe we finally fell in years after only knowing each other all of our 21 years?”

Lyly pressed her head against Beth’s, “Literally everyone in our hometown?” she suggested dryly.

Beth nudged her, “For a woman named Lyly, pronounced Lily, spelled L-y-l-y, you really shouldn’t be this,” she waved her hand, “this,” she waved her hand faster.

“Judgy? Dry? Exasperated with life? Constantly questioning the human race and how we’ve survived thus far when we’re surrounded by idiots?” Lyly offered.

Beth began giggling and gently shoved her, “The English language word evades me at the moment but as long as you got what I meant!” She tugged her close again, “We need to talk about the hot firefighter from 3B. He’s totally into the hot guy from 3C!”

“Blondie-brown hair is 3B, right? I thought the exasperated-looking brunette with him was his boyfriend,” Lyly said with a frown.

Beth frowned at her, “No,” she said slowly, “exasperated cutie is his best friend. They work at the same house.”

“Station. It’s called a Fire station,” Lyly said.

“I thought it was Fire House?” Beth said confused.

“Should we google it?” Lyly asked.

Beth threw up her hands, “OH EM Gee, babe, should we google what the spot that holds the Fire trucks the hot firemen ride around in and pose for sexy calendars in front of and wash in wet t-shirt contests is called or should we discuss how to help the sexy fireman who lives in our building get the hot broody guy who has THE MOST gorgeous brows and makes delicious pesto so that broody brows can feed sexy fireman pesto?!”

Lyly rapidly blinked her eyes to process her best friend turned girlfriend’s rant. “Have you been watching firemen porn again?” she asked suspiciously.

“No,” Beth said immediately. “I’ve been watching cookery porn. And let me tell you how sexy food porn is. Like I have to introduce you to Nigella Lawson. She sometimes cooks like Jamie Oliver levels of dumb but OMGeeeee, the woman could film a thirty-minute episode just eating a jar of peanut butter and moaning and I’d watch it. The world would fucking watch it! The world DESERVES IT!”

Lyly sighed and patted the top of Beth’s head, “Breathe, baby, it’s okay. I only asked cause like you know the firemen don’t sit having wet tee contests in the firehouse, right?”

Beth sighed deeply, “Sorry, 2020 got me.” She frowned, “I thought you said it was a fire station?”

Lyly heaved a deep sigh.

Beth pouted, “You were right. Let’s just google it and get it over with.”

Lyly pulled out her phone and Googled it. They put their heads together and read it. 

“Huh. Okay then. We were both right,” Lyly said pleased. She took a deep breath and exhaled, “Okay, now I’m ready to focus on 3B with 3C.”

Beth snickered, “Fire hose. That would be a great name for a firefighter on a hook-up app.”

Lyly couldn’t help but giggle. “You’re so stupid. Focus!”

“Uh, excuse me,” a tall man said as he slowly approached them, “I didn’t mean to eavesdrop but y’all weren’t exactly soft. And I’m nosy. Cause 2020.” They exchanged a nod, they were all so done with fucking 2020. “What’s this about 3B with 3C?”

Lyly and Beth exchanged a look. 

“Um, well we don’t wanna be telling tales, ya know?” Lyly said hesitantly.

“Is this about 3B’s epic crush, major UST, bro lusting over 3C?” the man prompted.

They looked at each other then at the man and raised their eyebrows in unison.

The man shook his head, “I’m 4B. I spend a lot of my time out on my balcony and 3B is not exactly soft when he’s whining dramatically to, I wanna say his bestie? about 3C’s 3Cness.” He sighed, “I’m Damian. We gotta do something about those two. I swear to you 3C is flirting back! But 3B is not catching ANY of the clues! And this cannot be good for exasperated bestie. All the man does is sigh and groan. It cannot be an after-work relaxing experience to be caught between 3B and 3C.”

The women perked up and took a step closer to him. “I’m Beth and this is Lyly, we’re 5C and can hear when 3C plays the guitar. I thought for sure when he played and SANG that old song, I can’t help falling in love with you, that he was sending a message to 3B that he’s open for it!”

Damian groaned, “You guys! We gotta do something. I mean 3B’s a firefighter, out on the front lines, had a probably shittier year than we have, it feels like our duty to give him something good in return.”

“Something good being 3C. With his full consent of course,” Lyly added quickly.

“Of course,” Damian agreed firmly.

“So what shall we do?” Beth asked eagerly.

Lyly smiled, “How do you guys feel about mistletoe?”

—

<Time what time 2020 had no judge-able time later>

“This is it, all our planning comes down to this.”

“Why are you whispering?”

“Why do you want me to be loud?”

“Just curious.”

“I can’t see anything.”

“I’m 5 feet nothing compared to your 6 foot something. It’s real disappointing to me that your world up there is as boring as mine down here right now.”

“We’re peering through the same damn crack in the door, Lyly. How did your parents even name you Lily spelled with two ys? Like is that why you’re this 5 feet nothing of sass, sarcasm, and caffeine?”

Beth giggled, “Oh, Damian, I’m so glad we found you. We’ll be keeping you for further shenanigans, buddy.”

Damian gently patted Beth’s head, “Ditto, B. You’re my new bestie.”

“And what am I?” Lyly asked curiously.

“You’re bestie’s tiny boo,” Damian cooed.

Lyly rolled her eyes, “You pat my head, Dame and you die.”

Damian snatched his hand back. “You’re extra stabby today.”

“She met 3C in the elevator. He had a cup of coffee in hand. His coffee smelled more dangerous than her coffee. She’s upset to be drinking substandard coffee now that she knows there’s something better out there,” Beth gleefully tattled.

There was a moment of silence, “Isn’t Lyl’s coffee like from that deep, dark, undrinkable without a fuck ton of syrup or sugar stuff her parents send her from Europe?” Damian asked in a hushed whisper.

“Yup,” Beth whispered back. “So you can imagine her stabbity rage that the Prince of Darkness has deeper, darker nectar.”

“Did we land firm on Prince of Darkness?” Damian asked. 

“Well, we had to use something and POD works. We couldn’t keep calling him 3C after 1A overheard us while she was lusting over 3C,” Beth said.

“Oh, right. I forgot about 1A. 1A is scary. I thought she was lusting over 3B. What did we land on for 3B?”

“LD,” Lyly said. “ Lust Drunk ,” she giggled.

Damian snickered, “I feel bad for him but dude really needs to do something. Poor EBF.”

“Exasperated Best Friend is pretty cute,” Beth hummed. “I wish they brought Pixie Barbie along. I haven’t seen her in a while.”

Damian sighed, “Pixie Barbie is gorgeous .”

“You think maybe we’ve lost our minds at this point and probably need a hobby? One that’s not about turning our fellow residents into a hobby?” Lyly asked.

“Shh, here they come!” Beth whispered.

The three of them peered out eagerly from the gap in the lobby storage closet door as Nico came in from his run.

Beth sighed as he pulled his tank top from where it had been tucked into the band of his shorts, wiped his face, and then pulled it on. “It should be considered a sin for him to put ON the tank top.”

Lyly lightly kicked her.

Nico pulled out his mask from his pocket and put it on. 

Damian sighed, “It should be a sin for him to cover that jaw and those lips up. But I admire his continued caution.”

Lyly rolled her eyes and kicked him too. She didn’t know if she was kicking them for whispering and risking alerting the drinker of better nectar than her or for crushing on the man. Or both. She nodded, both were good.

“Here we go!” Damian whisper cheered as the door opened and Buck walked in. 

“It cannot be a coincidence that POD times his return from his run to when LD returns from work,” Lyly whispered.

“No fucking way,” Damian agreed. “It’s past 9 am. By this time POD should be sitting chained to his desk like a good little solider of the corporate world. This is deliberate.”

They weren’t close enough to clearly hear all of what was being said but they watched the two stand closer than they would if they were just bros, chit-chatting. 

“Look up,” Beth whispered.

“Look up,” Damian whispered.

“We obviously need the power of three,” Lyly whispered. “Prue, Piper, all together now.”

“Look up!” they whispered together. And had to promptly cover their mouths when POD looked around.

“Did you hear that?” Nico asked as he glanced around.

“The buzzing sound?” Buck asked as he too glanced around.

“Yeah. It is weird, I have been hearing it for a few weeks now.”

“What?” Buck asked concerned. “Are you feeling okay?” He instinctively reached out and touched Nico’s cheek, then pressed the back of his hand on his forehead. “You’re your normal hot.”

“My normal hot?” Nico asked dryly.

“Yeah, you run hot,” Buck laughed and pulled his hand back. “But seriously, are you feeling okay?”

“I feel fine. It is just the buzzing. I feel like it has been following me at times when I move around,” Nico said. “Do not look so worried, Evan, I am fine.”

“I worry. I’m a worrier. It’s what I do,” Buck admitted.

“I promise, I feel fine. Where is Diaz today?”

“He went home. Our shift is in the clear again and he tested negative so he went home.”

“Ah, to his son. Good for him. So your loft is all yours again? Or is that brother-in-law still lurking?”

Buck rolled his eyes, “My sister’s boyfriend. He’s not my brother-in-law. Yet. He left too, thank fuck ,” he said relieved. “I’m happy for my sister and her baby-to-be. I’m even happy for the guy but his fretting was,” he trailed off with a huff.

Nico raised his eyebrows, “His fretting was getting on my goddamn nerves and I did not even have to live with him, just next door to his 2 am fretting on the phone.”

“Well don’t celebrate just yet,” Buck grumbled. “He’s gone and his brother is coming to stay in his place.”

“What the fuck for?” Nico asked irritated.

And Buck was grateful for the irritation. At least someone was irritated on his behalf. How on earth was he meant to flirt and spend time with and maybe get somewhere with Nico if people were constantly coming to stay with him?

“Chimney lives in a one-bedroom. They want some privacy so he,” Buck grimaced, “convinced me to take Albert in for a bit.”

“Convinced with that man sounds like he demanded, threw the ‘your sister is pregnant’ and got his own way,” Nico said unimpressed.

Buck sighed, “You got it. And you know what ‘for a bit’ means.”

“Months. Weeks at minimum.” Nico’s tone was unforgiving.

Buck groaned and stretched his neck, “Yup,” he said tilting his head back. “Um. What’s that?”

Nico tilted his head back and looked up. “I want to say mistletoe,” he said slowly.

Lyly, Beth, and Damian clutched each other’s hands in excitement. 

“Why is there mistletoe in the lobby?” Buck looked around, “I don’t see any placed anywhere else.”

Nico laughed, “It is placed all the way back to the elevator. It is November.”

“Someone wanted Seasonal cheer early. I can’t blame them 'cause,” Buck said and looked at Nico.

“2020,” they said together.

“Isn’t it bad luck to let a mistletoe go unfulfilled?” Buck bullshitted casually.

“Hmm, I think I too have heard that,” Nico agreed.

“Those two are so smooth,” Beth whispered.

“And so into each other,” Damian agreed.

“Friends do the mistletoe thing,” Buck said as he pulled his mask down.

“They sure do,” Nico agreed as he pulled his mask down.

Their heads slowly moved closer, their eyes locked.

“This is it,” Lyla whispered. “Maybe we shouldn’t be watching.”

“We should be taking video and claiming this love story,” Beth whispered.

“Got you covered, my loves,” Damian whispered.

“Oh, mistletoe!” a voice rang out loudly in the lobby causing all of them to jerk in surprise.

“FUCK!” Lyla hissed. “It’s 1A!”

“We’re screwed,” Damian moaned.

Buck and Nico pulled back and stared at one another.

“It’s my lucky day to find myself under the mistletoe with two handsome men,” 1A purred as she sauntered close.

Buck aimed his deer caught in headlights wide-eyed Bambi look at Nico. 

Nico’s lips twisted into a small smile as he leaned in and pressed his lips against Buck’s jaw. Buck whimpered when he pulled away.

“The mistletoe rule is one kiss and then you are out,” Nico said confidently.

“It is?” 1A asked with a frown.

Buck cleared his throat, “YES!” he smiled awkwardly, “Yes. One kiss. Then the mistletoe ends for you. It’s uh, bad luck to kiss under it again. And I already got my kiss.” He looked at Nico, “You’re late for work. Like really late. Come on, Rossi.”

Lyly, Beth, and Damian watched as 3B yanked on 3C’s arm, both of them pulling their masks back into position as they moved toward the elevator leaving 1A behind looking utterly confused.

“Goddamn, 3B is smooth when he wants to be. And possessive as fuck,” Damian whispered. 

“Do you think we have time to make it up before they discover the mistletoe in their floor hallway?” Beth asked.

Lyly snickered, “No, we don’t. And we have to take these ones down before Arthur sees it and decides to fine us for altering the lobby.”

“You gotta admit we make a good team,” Damian said as they carefully slipped out of the closet.

Lyly and Beth smiled at him, “Yes, we do,” they chorused happily.

Eddie watching Buck sit just out of sight and listen to Nico play [and anytime Buck is reduced to lustlove ness]
He despairs that his best friend has no game when it comes to Nico. 

Chapter Text

“This doesn’t taste… wrong.”

“It doesn’t taste right .”

“How would we know what right is? We’re eating it for the first time.”

“This can’t be it. The world raves about this…this… flat dish?”

A deep sigh, “Where did we go wrong?”

“Now you have me curious enough to ask what food you two are so disappointed in.”

Blue eyes met brown as they slowly blinked at each other. 

Eddie pointed at Buck, ‘Be cool!’ He rolled his eyes at the offended pout Buck aimed his way. He face palmed, ‘Answer him!!!’ he waved his hands rapidly to convey how done he was with Buck’s ways.

Buck quickly sat up and pressed his head against the balcony railing, “Fondue.”

“Cheese fondue?”

Eddie saw the way Buck perked up and covered his eyes with his hand.

“Is there another kind?” Buck asked curiously.

“There are four commonly prepared ones - cheese, chocolate, oil fondue which is also known as meat fondue, and a broth fondue.”

Eddie dragged his hand down his face and looked up at the sky. He asked the good Lord Jesus to tell him what he had done to earn this. Buck’s inner nerd had a friend.

Buck grinned gleefully at him. He cleared his throat, “We attempted, we thought successfully, a cheese fondue. But it kinda doesn’t taste, well it doesn’t taste wrong but it also doesn’t taste right .”

“Or we’re just Americans who don’t appreciate Fondue,” Eddie muttered.

Buck kicked Eddie’s foot, “Don’t say that! We loved the chicken tikka masala we managed to make.”

“That just says we like flavor and spice. And this is just bland,” Eddie huffed and stared in betrayal at the Fondue innocently bubbling away that they had slaved over for hours .

“It does depend on the recipe you follow. A classic Fondue is meant to taste like a combination of the cheese you use, while some enhance it with flavors.

“I’m pretty sure we made a classic version,” Buck said grabbing for his phone to pull up the recipe.

“There is no a classic version there is just the classic version,” the voice said ominously. “Which cheese did you use?”

“Gruyère and Emmental,” Buck replied promptly.

“Were they pre-shredded cheese?” The voice sounded stern as if just daring them to say they had.

Eddie swallowed as he recalled spending a solid twenty minutes on the drive to the store convincing Buck to buy pre-shredded and Buck having insisted on buying the blocks.

Buck pointed accusingly at Eddie. “No, we grated it ourselves. With a lot of love.”

“Good.” The voice sounded relaxed and pleased. “With your biceps pre-shredded is a sin.”

“I try,” Buck said with fake modesty. He glanced at his bicep, raised an eyebrow at Eddie as he flexed, then leaned to kiss his popping muscle.

Eddie rolled his eyes even as he took a quick picture.

“Did you brush the inside of the pot with a sliced garlic clove?”

“Yes,” Buck said firmly. 

“And then discarded it?”

Buck wriggled his eyebrows at Eddie, “Eddie didn’t want to but the recipe said to brush and discard so that’s what I did.”

Eddie narrowed his eyes and pointed accusingly at Buck, ‘Tell the TRUTH!’

Buck winced, “Well I didn’t exactly discard it in the literal sense. I saved it to use later as I wasn’t comfortable with the waste.”

There was a moment of silence. Buck looked wide-eyed at Eddie and chewed on his bottom lip. Eddie stuck out his lower lip and made a heart shape with his hands at Buck.

“That is rather sweet. I too am not comfortable with wastage in this manner.”

Buck brightened up like the sweet puppy he was. Eddie couldn’t help but grin.

“Did you add Kirsch?”

“Kirsch?” Buck repeated. "There was no Kirsch mentioned." He looked at Eddie, ‘What’s Kirsch?!’ he mouthed while waving his hand frantically.

Eddie stared at him bewildered and mouthed back, ‘WHY would I know?’ Seriously? He cooked simple, basic foods. How on earth was Buck expecting this level of fooding from him? He made grilled cheese with nice, good, solid, American cheese. Buck made grilled cheese with two different types of cheese and pear . That’s exactly what he had made and taken over to his neighbor as a welcome to the building meal.

“Kirsch is a clear brandy made from cherries. It is used in Fondue because its fruity flavor complements the two cheeses you used. And it helps prevent the cheese from becoming a clumpy mess which is then not ideal for dipping into.” 

Buck and Eddie peered at the pot where the golden liquid was gently bubbling. “Well,” Buck said slowly, “it’s not clumpy yet but I can see it’s beginning to head in that direction.”

A sigh. “Hold on.”

Buck stared at Eddie as he dragged his hand up his neck in front of his face while mouthing, ‘OMG his VOICE.’ He tapped on his phone and turned the screen to show Eddie.

Eddie rolled his eyes at the gif of an ice cube rapidly melting. With how often Buck used it, it was just favorited at this point.

“Here.”

They looked to the side to see a tanned arm covered in a crisp dusting of dark hair extended around the barrier between their balconies. The hand held a bottle. 

“Kirsch. Add one and a half tablespoons of it and stir.”

Buck tossed his phone to Eddie who fumbled to catch it as Buck rushed to stand up and get the bottle. 

“Black pepper. Give it two twists, stir, then taste. Add more if required.”

Buck accepted the pepper mill.

“Nutmeg. Add a sprinkle. Stir.”

Buck accepted the small bottle. “Thanks, Nico. Let’s do this and see how we go.” 

Eddie was impressed Buck managed to return to where the pot was bubbling and not stand there staring at his neighbor’s arm. The last time Buck was overtired he had mumbled for a solid twelve minutes about the man’s arm hair and how interesting he found it.

Eddie took the bottle of Kirsch, “One and a half teaspoon,” he said out loud and added it to the cheese.

“One and a half table spoons of Kirsch,” Nico said.

Eddie winced and looked at Buck who was doing his best Bambi puppy impression again. “Um...”

“Add three more teaspoons. Go wild.”

Eddie bit his lip and at Buck’s encouraging nod added it in. Buck stirred it gently then twisted in the pepper.

“Two twists of black pepper,” he said out loud and smiled sweetly as he stirred it.

Eddie rolled his eyes, ‘Suck up,’ he mouthed.

Buck wriggled his eyebrows at him. “Taste,” he scooped up a small spoonful and offered it to Eddie.

“I’m not tasting it,” Eddie protested.

“Why not?” Buck demanded.

“I had not even heard of this dish before y'all came up with the idea of making it. I shouldn’t be the one taste-testing it and inviting bad karma if I offend some Swiss person.”

Buck blinked slowly at him. “You believe in karma now?” he finally asked.

Eddie flushed, “I might. 2020. Shut up. You taste it.”

“I’m the cook. My food doesn’t tell me much about it,” Buck protested.

They turned as one to the side.

“Nico,” Buck began sweetly, “will you taste?”

Nico’s sigh sounded fond to Eddie. “Sure, Buck.”

Buck’s head whipped around, ‘OMG,’ he mouthed at Eddie. He grinned and grabbed a fresh fork, stabbed a piece of bread, and dipped it in the cheese, coating it well before tapping the excess off and rushing off to the side.

Eddie shook his head as Buck held his arm across. 

“A fork.”

“The Fondue pot I looked up online did say it came with skewers but as this may be the only time I make it I didn’t want to be that type of consumer. So I used a pot I had and forks,” Buck said seriously.

Eddie smiled proudly, glad that Buck held firm to his beliefs in the face of his epic bro crush on his neighbor.

“I admire that. Hmmm, it tastes good. You guys did a good job with it.”

Eddie shook his head at the man generously giving him credit. All he had done was eat the cheese Buck grated. Well, he had also sprinkled it over crackers and force-fed Buck. He told himself keeping his chef fed made him worthy of the credit.

“Two more twists of pepper and a big pinch of the nutmeg should do the trick. And let me know if you decide to make it again. I’m happy to lend you my fondue pot and skewers.”

“Aww, thanks, that’s kind of you.” Buck spun around and aimed his thumb at the divider and mouthed, ‘So NICE!!!’ at Eddie.

Eddie gave Buck a big smile, then added in the pepper. “A big pinch of nutmeg is just a big pinch?” he asked toward the divider.

“Reach your fingers into the jar, pinch, retract, release over pot.”

Buck covered his mouth and shook with silent laughter, his eyes sparkling. Eddie stuck his tongue out at him, he could laugh all he wanted but Eddie appreciated Nico explaining that.

“The nutmeg is yours to keep, Buck. You can use it on mac and cheese.”

“Thanks, Nico!” Buck sang happily.

They looked at each other as they grabbed their forks and carefully dipped bread in. Blowing gently on it, they tasted it, humming appreciatively at the change in flavor. 

“This is good and now tastes right,” Buck declared.

“It does,” Eddie agreed.

Buck raised his eyebrows at Eddie and tilted his head to the side. Eddie nodded quickly and flashed him a thumbs up.

“Hey Nico, do you want to come over and share this with us? We’ve been tested and cleared at work and there’s enough space for us to keep some distance,” Buck offered with his fingers crossed.

Buck gnawed on his lip at the silence. 

“I would like that. I will be over in a minute.”

Buck sighed in relief and beamed at Eddie. 

Eddie silently slow clapped. Finally, he thought.

Chapter Text

“Do you ever wish life was a fairytale?”

“Is that not what we are living in right now?” 

Buck blinked, “Huh?” He mentally smacked himself for that generic dumb response. But he was so fucking tired!

“Some would say 2020 is a Grimms' Fairy tale.” The tone was amused and dry. 

“Grimms',” Buck murmured. “Should I be knowing know what that means?”

A rustling sound. Buck looked over as if he could see Nico moving on the other side of the divider between their balconies.

“A regular fairy tale can be stupid enough. A Grimms' version can be downright terrifying.” A pause, “Or make you cackle gleefully when you discover it cause the Disney tale left a lot to be desired by your nine-year-old heart.”

Buck blinked rapidly. “You did not go seeking darker fairy tales at NINE years old, Rossi.”

“If it makes you feel better to believe so,” came the light reply. 

Buck told himself he did not have the time for this. He had to attempt to sleep in an hour. He could not indulge in a proper research session about this and the risk of it spiraling into a multi wiki link search was too great to ignore the risk. His eyes head turned to the left, he had just enough time to enjoy a chat about it though.

He smiled, “Okay tough guy, hit me with why the little mermaid left a lot to be desired.”

“Ariel wanted Eric. That is it. The contract she signed with Ursula said she had three days to get Eric to fall truly in love with her. That itself was a what the fuck in that then she could not pass him a note to tell him that she is the girl who saved him who he is infatuated with. That entire relationship sounded like a toxic mess in the making. Was there fine print to this contract that said the way Eric kissed her had to be TRUE LOVE’s kiss and could anything negate the TRUE LOVE factor? Who was the decider of if it was horny love, infatuated love, momentary love, love love, or true love? Ariel wanted Eric without knowing him and changed her life, her entire life, around just to have this stranger. She decided she loved him and wanted him and nothing else seemed to matter.”

Buck realized he was staring at the divider screen, his jaw open. He snapped it shut. “There is no way you were so jaded at nine to be thinking that!” He protested.

“Jaded?” Came the amused reply, “Hardly jaded. My papa taught me early that one does not sign a contract without reading it twice and questioning the fine print like you are about to be put on a stand and asked to swear an oath to it." 

Buck blinked, “That's a fair point,” he conceded grudgingly. He didn't want to dwell on that further ‘cause that would mean Nico probably didn't believe in the mystery magic of lustlove at first sight and would not fall for him like he had fallen for Nico. And he didn’t trust his feelings cause 2020.

“Though I do not know if Ariel qualifies as a fairy tale.”

Buck hums curiously, “Okay, what about Cinderella?”

“Well, in the soft fairytale version the Prince takes the shoe Cinderella left behind - is it gold? A glass slipper? A gorgeous beaded number? I leave that to your imagination. But I imagine it as a glass slipper.”

“I would have thought some fancy beaded number would be more your thing,” Buck murmured. He had spent several pleasant hours in bed just scrolling the man’s Instagram and had learned how well traveled and fancy he was. He had also enjoyed how fucking gorgeous his neighbor was. And a pretty poser. A pretty, pretty poser. He shivered as Nico’s rich laughter filled the air and brought him out of his dreamy thoughts of Nico posing in bed with a cigarette in hand. Smoking was a terrible habit but ugh, hot.

“Oh, you will see why. In the Grimm version, one stepsister cuts off her toe to fit into the shoe and fool the prince. It still does not fit. The other stepsister cuts off her heel to fit. It does not fit. Blood is discovered. Now do you see why I prefer the glass version?”

Buck laughed, “Because you imagine it being washed and sanitized before Cinderella wore it?” He knew his guess was correct. 

“Yes,” Nico said simply. 

Buck preened, the simple word held weight and said so much without saying much at all. “Okay, what's the scariest fairy tale you know of?”

“Scariest?” Nico asked softly. Silkily. “Sure you wanna know about that one softBuckley, the man who cried over Gremlins?”

Buck flushed, “In my defense, I had had a long day and I found the Mogwai to be cute. Them turning into Gremlins when others didn't follow the rules of the care and feeding of them and then these awful humans hunting them down as if they were to blame for merely eating, was a lot !” He face palmed himself when he finished his little passioned speech and consoled himself that at least Eddie wasn’t around to shake his head in disappointment at him.

Nico's rich laughter made him close his eyes and soak in the tone. “This world is too terrible for you, Evan.”

Buck fanned his face, for once thankful that he and Nico couldn't see each other. “Come on then, tell me any scary fairy tale.”

“If you insist,” Nico said lowly.

Buck shivered as Nico began speaking.

“A poor countryman has three daughters. One day…”

He wraps his arms around himself and swallows as the story comes to an end.

“...them all to death.” There was a moment of silence. “In one version of Cinderella, the evil stepmother convinces her daughters to let her cut off bits of their foot to fit the slipper, telling them that once they are a princess they will have no need to walk anywhere. There are birds that sit above Cinderella's mother's grave. As the Prince takes the first sister whose foot fits into the shoe away the birds sing to alert him of blood in the shoe. So he takes sister one back. Then, the mother cuts off daughter two’s heel so she fits into the shoe. As the Prince takes her away the birds sing of blood again. He returns sister two too.”

“Damn, and I thought my mom was bad for not being invested much in me,” Buck murmured. “I'll take that over this.” He rubbed his arms to rid himself of the chill that had caught onto him. 

“A balance is always good in life and relationships. Here.”

Buck blinked as something soft landed on him. “What?” His voice was muffled by the fabric. He smiled at how soft it was and quickly pulled it off his head to discover it was a couch blanket. 

“You were chilled.”

Buck hid his smile in the blanket as he wrapped it around him. He was chilled and there was no one here to see him smile like a dork.

“Thanks,” he said softly. He took a deep breath and snuggled into the blanket. “Tell me the sweetest fairy tale that you like.”

“There was a girl named Danielle. Her widowed father loved her very much. One day he brought home a wife and with her her two daughters…”

“You're telling me the tale of Cinderella again,” Buck said confused.

“I'm telling you a version of Cinderella that I adore,” Nico corrected. 

Buck tilted his head and turned to face the divider between their balconies, “Okay, go on.”

“Danielle was overjoyed to have a mother and sisters. But they kept her at a distance. Shortly after he brought them home, the father died. His wife took over the estate and let it go to ruin. The staff consisting of a husband and wife and a lady stayed on for their love of Danielle."

"She grew up to be a wonderful young lady, full of life and spirit. She worked tirelessly to maintain her property, which her stepmother let fall to ruin. She worked hard for the family and all she wanted was a bit of kindness and love from them. Sadly, she never received any. But she did not allow bitterness to spread through her heart. Instead, she invited wonder to fill it. The wondrous feeling of floating in a river. Trying out a new invention. Life was more than duty, life was wonder and joy and friendship and love. One day she saw someone steal one of her horses. She threw an apple at him to stop him…”

Buck sat enthralled with Nico's voice and the tale he weaved of Danielle and Prince Henry's budding love story. 

“And so, Prince Henry rode out to save Danielle but when he arrived he saw he was too late.”

Buck sat up, “Nico? Please don't tell me she died or,” he swallowed hard, “the guy did anything to her,” he pleaded softly.

There was a rustling sound, then that too-attractive face peered around the divider to stare at Buck.

“Prince Henry was too late because Danielle had already saved herself. Her father was an excellent swordsman and had taught her well. “ Nico smiled, “She did not need a man to save her. She did not need anyone to save her for she was enough. What she sought was acceptance and love.”

Buck stared at the man for a moment then stood up, holding the blanket around him, and moved to lean on the railing standing as close to Nico as he could.

“And then they lived happily ever after?” He asked softly.

Hazel eyes sparkled as they met blue. “The point, Evan,” Nico whispered, “is that they lived. ”

Buck pressed his lips together and blinked back happy tears. This was so stupid. It was really so silly for him to be pleased with a random story Nico made up. But with the way this year had already shaped up, every bit of happiness was worth it. And everything that brought joy was appreciated.

“I should have recorded you,” he said softly “I'd love to experience this story again on a dark day.” He felt very seen by those eyes.

“You could watch it,” Nico offered softly.

“Watch it?” Buck asked.

Nico smiled, “Ever After: A Cinderella story starring Drew Barrymore. I will send you the link.”

“It exists?” Buck leaned closer. “I thought you were making it up!” He said joyfully.

Nico laughed and shook his head, “I am not that creative, Buck. At least not yet. By the time my brother's baby comes along, I am sure I will have a better grasp at stories for my little darling.”

“I'd pay to see that. You with a little baby cuddled to you,” Buck said dreamily. Then stiffened as he realized what he had admitted. He relaxed when Nico merely smiled.

That night Buck went to bed sleep wrapped in Nico's blanket. The next morning he rushed off to work, the blanket neatly folded at the foot of his bed. During a lull at work, everyone in the loft heard a deep voice say ‘Ever After: A Cinderella Story. There was a girl named Danielle,’ before Buck silenced his phone, a bright smile on his face.

Chapter Text

“This is good.”

Eddie opened his eyes a sliver to see Buck waving the glass back and forth. He sighed and closed his eyes.

“This is really good.”

Eddie's eyes fluttered open to see Buck’s shoulders moving slightly with the glass. Probably all the energy he could muster, he thought. 

“This is really really good!” Buck declared.

Eddie's eyes opened wide as Buck raised his arm, held the glass, the very expensive looking and feeling glass over the railing to wave it about.

“NICO!” Buck shouted.

Eddie bit back a groan and slid down in his seat, covering his eyes in preparation for the secondhand embarrassment that was likely to come his way. He moved his hand off one eye so he could still see what Buck was doing. And what he was doing was tapping the expensive crystal glass on the railing.

“Yes, Evan?”

Eddie saw Buck visibly shiver at that. For some oddly interesting reason, Buck's neighbor referred to him, more often than not, as Evan. With Nico possessing a voice that Buck had described as the best liquid sliding down your throat to pool comfortingly in a tingle in your stomach, which was nice, but then he'd followed it up with, a voice that’s made to speak porn to you, - he loved tipsy Buck and he loved open Buck who described his bros in any manner he saw fit regardless of gender - Eddie got the appeal of Nico Rossi uttering Buck's given name in his porn speak worthy Italian accented tone.

“Nico,” Buck cooed, “you're here!”

“Yes, I am, for you summoned me.”

Eddie looked up in time to see Nico's arms appear on the railing close to the divider between the two balconies, his too-attractive face followed as he leaned on the railing and peered around at them.

“I did? Am I a witch?”

Eddie blinked rapidly at his friend's words. A witch?

“Or would I be a wizard?” Buck brought his arm down and tilted his head like a cute golden puppy at Nico.

“Hmmm.” Nico shifted and leaned his elbow on the railing, resting his face in the palm of his hand as he regarded Buck. “In Rowling's world, it is called the school of witchcraft and wizardry which to me meant the genders have been separated. But in other stories, your witchy powers have nothing to do with your gender.”

Eddie shook his head and smiled fondly. He had only met Nico once before but he appreciated and loved just how he indulged Buck and matched Buck in his conversational meanderings.

“I prefer the latter. A man more in tune with his feminine energy could be a witch?” Nico offered.

Eddie pressed his lips together to hold back his smile at the way Buck melted at Nico’s explanation. 

“That's sweet,” Buck said. 

Eddie wasn't sure if he should be worried here. Buck was overtired. They both were. And tipsy. Was that a combination that he as a good friend should allow Buck to talk to Nico in? Buck may not have admitted it but it was clear to Eddie that he had a bro crush on Nico. A man crush? He tilted his head, he’d have to look up man-crush later.

“Why are you dressed?”

Eddie took a gulp of the very nice amber liquid and very carefully set the expensive glass aside. 

“You prefer me naked?" Nico lifted a perfectly arched eyebrow, "Would you like me to strip for you?"

Eddie took in what he could see of Nico's attire which was a crisp white shirt with the top several buttons unbuttoned and the sleeves folded.

“I could turn on some music,” Buck offered sweetly.

Eddie swallowed, Oh dear. Danger, danger, danger! His mind screamed at him.

“Sure.” Nico glanced at his watch, “How about at 5 pm?”

“Okay,” Buck agreed, his eyes glued to Nico. “Here?”

Nico's eyes flicked to Eddie and back to Buck, “How about we spare Eddie? You come over here. “

“I will,” Buck promised. “At five.”

“At five,” Nico confirmed. He glanced at Buck’s glass, “Would you like a refill, Evan?”

Buck clutched the glass in both palms and sweetly held out his arms, “Yes please.”

Nico smiled and disappeared.

“Buck,” Eddie hissed wondering what had just happened and what he should address first! “This is really expensive whisky and really expensive glasses.” When they had decided that after the shift they had had they deserved a drink, Eddie had come out of the shower to find the two glasses. He hadn’t questioned where they had come from. He should have. 

Buck blinked at him, “Of course it is. It's Nico, he likes nice things. The whisky is Japanese and costs more than I would be comfortable drinking, which is why he never tells me the name of it and the glasses are…” He trailed off and turned to look at his outstretched arms. “NICO! Which glasses are these?

“Buck!” Eddie hissed.

Buck brought his palms close and peered at the glass “I think this is Modernism…”

Eddie's heart was in his throat at the way Buck’s nose gently touched the glass as he examined it. Please don't knock over the very expensive glass containing the very expensive whisky, Buck.  

“You summoned again?”

Eddie looked up to see Nico leaning over with another filled glass for Buck. 

“Eddie, can I interest you in a refill?”

Eddie wanted to refuse. It wasn't right of him to enjoy the very expensive, smooth, delicious liquid that probably cost as much as his monthly grocery bill just because he was here with Buck. 

“How about just a finger?” Nico offered. 

Eddie nodded and watched as Nico traded Buck’s glass for a fresh one, disappeared, then reappeared in a moment handing Buck another glass for Eddie.

“Evan take this,” Nico handed over a bag. “Eat.”

“But I'll still see you at five?” Buck asked hopefully.

“Yes, come over at five.”

Eddie blinked, unsure how to handle this. His supposedly straight friend had gone a step further in his bromance with his neighbor and had made plans to go over for a… strip show? These two had a strange friendship. He looked at the wrapped thing Buck held out to him. 

“What's this?” he asked curiously and accepted the wrapped… sandwich? He pressed gently on it and figured it was a firm sandwich or wrap of some kind.

“Food.” Buck yawned as he gently set a glass down beside Eddie. 

Eddie saw the paper bore his name. He picked up the glass which had a tiny sip left which he proceeded to tip into his mouth, humming at how smoothly it went down. 

“He even put my name on it,” he murmured.

“Oh yeah, 'cause I don't like it spicy but I mentioned you like spice,” Buck said distractedly.

Eddie's brows scrunched together as he looked at Buck, “He feeds you often?”

“Yeah like three-four times a week sometimes,” Buck said as he unwrapped his sandwich and bit into it.

“Why?” Eddie was genuinely confused. “I guess maybe it’s the whole thankful for the first responders thing?”

Buck lifted one shoulder in a shrug, “I'd think so too but he's been my provider of food since he moved in.” He tilted his head, “I suppose I started it. When he moved in -” 

“When you helped him move in,” Eddie corrected.

“When I lifted his suitcases and flexed my muscles at him,” Buck winked. “I also made him those walnut fudge brownies with almond slivers and almond dust. He didn't have food but he did have alcohol, good alcohol, so we sat eating brownies from the pan while drinking his amazing booze. Well, the next time he invited me over for a Thai crunch salad that honestly made me weep, and beer. Well I retaliated with burgers from Gratitude - "

“And turned it into a competition?” Eddie asked with a laugh.

Buck rolled his eyes, “ - which he refused to believe was Vegan. Then he retaliated with a sizzler. He made me a steak. By that point we were spending a decent amount of time together. Well then I brought Bobby's Chili into play and we turned it into -”

“A competition?” Eddie offered again.

Buck grinned “Not exactly. I brought the Chili so he decided to be the provider of margaritas to go with it. So what could have become a competition became a ‘let's see what you bring and how I can match it and who wins the night,’ and that led to us just sharing a meal like one or two times a week.”

Eddie sat considering that as he bit into his sandwich. He wasn’t proud of the sound that came out of his mouth but he also didn't mind it. What was this magic?

“Right?” Buck asked. “Nico has a magical touch with sandwiches. I don't even know how he does it but since the whole work-from-home thing began he's been leaving me the most amazing sandwiches several times a week. “

Eddie swallowed his bite and inhaled the sandwich. It smelled as delicious as it tasted. Complex. Rich. Made with care. 

“Buck,” he said softly, “have you been dating your neighbor? Cause what you're describing sure sounds like dates bud. I think you need to be careful that you don't break his heart.”

Buck blinked and stared at him as he chewed the bite in his mouth. “Why would I break his heart?” he asked once he had swallowed.

Eddie shifted nervously, “Well cause, I mean, you're not gay obviously so you probably need to consider this situation -”

Buck frowned, “I'm not gay,” he confirmed firmly.

Eddie nodded, ready to tell his best friend that there was nothing wrong with being gay which he knew Buck already knew. Hell Buck was very relaxed when men hit on him and flirted back just enough to take the sting out of turning them down. But -

“I'm bi.”

Eddie’s brain screeched to a halt. He stared at his best friend and took another bite of the amazing better-than-sex sandwich as he considered what had been revealed to him.

“I'm proud of you for living your truth,” he said gently, as he uttered the words he had memorized in case Christopher ever came out to him. He didn't want to assume heteronormativity with his son but for some reason he had assumed so with his best friend. 

“Thanks, Eddie,” Buck said sweetly.

They finished eating before Eddie realized what Buck had set himself up for. “Buck,” he whispered, “do you think it's a wise decision to go over to Nico’s?”

“Yes,” Buck said slowly.

“Buck,” Eddie said gently, “you're newly out and this thing between you two has obviously been budding for a few months but is this the best time to take the next step? You're tipsy and tired and we had a hellish thirty-hour shift.”

Buck’s jaw dropped open. 

Eddie worried he had overstepped but he couldn't help it! Make good choices, Evan! the dad in him shouted.

“Eddie,” Buck said softly, “I've known I was bi since I was fourteen.” He smiled gently, “I was in a year-long relationship with a man when I was twenty. I just haven't been with men since my relationship with J ended. No guy was measuring up.” He grinned, “Meeting Nico is how I got my bi back,” he said with a laugh. 

Chapter Text

Buck got home and opened up his balcony doors to get the air circulating. He tilted his head and frowned at the music he could hear floating across. Had someone broken into Nico's apartment? He rolled his eyes at himself, were thieves that ballsy to break in and play music? Though it was 2020, anything could happen.

He stood close to the divider and stuck his head around it. “Nico?” He called out, body tense and ready to go confront any thief. 

“What's up, Buck?” 

He swallowed as a shirtless Nico Rossi came out onto the balcony and leaned by the divider. The other man was so close Buck could touch him. Do not touch him, Buck, he sternly told himself. He’d wonder later why his inner voice sounded suspiciously like Eddie.

“Uh, weren't you supposed to be in Aspen by now? Snow? Skiing? Ridiculously expensive fancy cabin?”

Nico rubbed his eye, “Winter Storm. Flights into Aspen are grounded.” He met Buck’s eyes, “I don't miss my family enough to spend hours at the airport and risk Covid or being rerouted elsewhere. Or both.”

Buck couldn't help but laugh. He loved Nico’s honesty. It was blunt without being cruel. And his dry sense of humor. And his sarcasm. God, he hoped his heart eyes were not on display right now. “How'd they take it when you told them you don't miss them?”

Nico's lips quirked into his small smile, “They threatened to cry. Papa offered to buy me a new car if I’d like to drive there or send me a private plane.”

Buck shook his head. Nico’s family was something else. “What a life, Mr. Richie Rich,” he teased. 

Nico brushed his hand against Buck’s, “Yeah, yeah. Are you headed to your sister and her baby daddy?”

“You can call him Chimney or Howard you know?”

“No.” Nico’s voice was flat and final.

Chimney and Nico had gotten off on the wrong foot immediately when Chimney had come to stay with Buck. Chimney's middle-of-the-night balcony fretting had disturbed Nico enough for him to shout at him to shut the fuck up. The duration of Chimney’s stay with him had included them shouting back and forth at each other. Buck had for the most part stayed safely out of it until their neighbors above and below had begun encouraging Nico and shouting at Chimney too for being disruptive.

Buck sighed, yeah, Chimney had not made any friends while he had stayed with him. “Not going over to theirs. I'm working tomorrow.”

Nico frowned, “Your shift is off tomorrow.”

Buck froze then smiled a slow big smile, “Nico,” he purred, “have you been keeping track of my shifts?” He kept his eyes firmly on the man's gorgeous face which is why he noticed the slight widening of his eyes. Oh yeah, Nico’s micro-expressions often told him everything he needed to know.

“Once you explained the twenty-four on, twenty-four off into three followed by four off, it was easy to know when you're working. It,” Nico hesitated for a moment but his eyes didn't waver from Buck’s, “it makes me feel better in these times to know you're home and safe when you're meant to be. But that's a me thing so we can stop talking about it now.”

Buck found the contrast between the stern, severe way Nico could come across versus how honest and comfortable he was expressing himself and his emotions to be rather lovely. The man was a giant marshmallow at the best of times. He made Buck melt.

His insides felt like warm goo. Melty warm chocolatey gooey goo. He moved his arm and let the back of his hand brush against Nico’s, “I love that. It's nice to know someone cares, Nico.” ‘I love that you care and so freely express it, Nico, and I wish I could tell you that I like you so damn much.’ He told his internal heart eyes to shut up before he outwardly began heart-eyeing the man in too obvious a fashion.

Nico gently pressed the back of his hand against Buck’s, “That's good to know. In the interest of being honest, you should also know I worry that you aren't eating enough for your current size and sleeping well when you take in your strays.”

Buck splattered out a laugh. “Nico!” he reprimanded gently. Nico had been referring to the people Buck had been allowing to stay with him, his coworkers, as his strays. “You are such an asshole,” he said fondly. 

Nico just smiled that little content smile as if he took being called an asshole as a compliment. Having gotten to know him the past year he would say he DID take it as one. 

“So,” he said brightly, his hand pressed against Nico's, “What shall we do for our first Christmas Eve together?” 

He kept his tone light and teasing but in his heart, he wanted this. He felt like he had fallen in love with Nico. Was almost sure of it. But didn't trust his feelings with the year they had had. Intimacy had built up quickly between them, quiet moments sitting out here together, talking about the most random of topics, passing food back and forth, telling each other their life stories. One memorable week Nico had even done his laundry. Which is how he had discovered Nico steam-ironed his clothes! And liked folding things. And hadn’t that been a delightfully weird surprise to come home to. His hoodies neatly folded as if ready to be displayed, his t-shirts without a wrinkle on them.

Nico hooked his finger around Buck’s and tugged gently, “I think it's time you came over so I can cook for you properly again.” His eyes dipped to Buck’s lips and back up to his eyes. 

Buck wet his lips, “Yeah? And what shall I do to contribute besides watching you?” 

“You can be dessert…” Nico said softly then smirked, “…the dessert maker.”

Buck tugged on Nico’s finger as he swallowed, “You’re awful,” he whispered.

Nico winked. “You wish you didn't love it?”

“Never,” Buck promised.

Buck folding up his sleeve ready to throw it down if anyone has broken into Nico's apartment.

Nico sat around looking at Buck with these soulful eyes as he cooked them dinner until Buck begged him to put on a shirt. His excuse was he didn't want Nico to get burned. Through his apron. It was a weak excuse. Nico didn't buy it. But he put on a shirt.

Chapter Text

Buck slumped across the kitchen island and yawned for what felt like the hundredth time that afternoon but was probably only the tenth. He huffed and turned to rest his head on his arm.

“Did one of us wake him up?” A soft, gentle voice asked.

“He woke himself up,” another voice whispered. “He set an alarm.”

Buck winced, there was a wealth of judgment in that tone. He opened his mouth to protest when his jaw decided to stretch into another yawn instead.

A chuckle, “Well at least the little Gremlin didn’t wake him.”

Buck opened his mouth again to protest the Gremlin remark and another yawn came out.

“My little angel is over at Carmen’s being ridiculously indulged. Again.”

“Have I told you how much I love that you don’t do the usual parent thing of passing ownership of our angel to me when he does something gremlinish?” The voice sounded incredibly fond.

“That’s so,” Buck paused to yawn, “cute. You two all parenting in lovey-dovey mode.”

“Evan Buckley, if you were not twenty-eight years old I would send you to your room to take a nap!”

“I’m just so,” he paused to yawn again, Jesus, what the hell? “ tired.”

Gentle fingers began carding through his hair, “Why on earth did you foolishly set an alarm and wake up?”

Buck sighed and relaxed. Tristan was such a dad with his brand of care. “I’d fuck up my sleep schedule if I napped on any later,” he admitted. “And I wanted to spend time with EJ.”

“You of all people should be calling him Evan , Evan.”

Buck squinted his eyes open and shifted his head to try and locate his friend. He waved his hand and smiled when Jason dutifully shifted into view. “You said he was going by EJ now.”

Jason rolled his eyes and poked his finger against Buck’s forehead, “Not with family.”

“Which you are,” Tristan, Jason’s husband helpfully added.

“If we have to tell the man we named our son after that he’s family to us then I’ve lost all hope for this world,” Jason muttered.

Tristan laughed when Buck yawned again, “Babe, don’t be mean. The poor guy can’t even protest right now he’s in such rough shape.”

“Listen to your husband,” Buck muttered and lifted his arm to clumsily pat Tristan’s arm.

“Hot chocolate or tea?” Jason asked.

Buck took that as J being nice and smiled. “Hot chocolate?” 

“I have mint, gingerbread, and berry,” Jason offered.

“Pick the berry,” Tristan whispered.

“The berry,” Buck said immediately.

For the next few minutes, gentle sounds filled the space - the beeps of the stove turning on, liquid being poured into a pan,a whisking sound. When combined with Tristan still running gentle fingers through his hair, well it nearly lulled Buck back into a relaxed enough state to fall asleep.

“Love, you want to tell Carmen to send Ev back?” Jason suggested.

“He should be back any minute. Nico was working from there with Tonio and had said he’d take Ev to play some basketball. But he’d have him up at four.”

‘Hmm, Nico,’ Buck thought. ‘Nico playing basketball.’ He internally wondered at the idea of his Nico with his solemn ways of interacting with a child and made a mental note to ask Nico how he was with children. ‘BUCK, snap out of it,’ his inner voice, which sounded a lot like Eddie when Buck was in dreamy Nico mode, scolded him. 

Buck’s eyes opened. “Nico?” he asked curiously. 

“Hmm? Oh, my cousin next door? Her brother-in-law,” Tristan said easily.

“Nico short for Nicholas?” Buck asked quickly. 

The silence told him he was incorrect. And had aroused their curiosity. He just knew Tristan and J were having a silent conversation that all well-in-tuned couples seemed to be able to do.

“Nico short for Nicodemus,” Jason said. 

Buck’s head snapped up as he stared between them in horror. “Nicodemus Rossi?” he asked to confirm what he was hearing.

“Yes,” Tristan confirmed.

Jason leaned back against the counter and folded his arms across his chest, “Something you wanna tell me, Ev?” he asked casually.

“Nicodemus Rossi is my neighbor. THD!” Buck hissed at Jason as he frantically checked himself over. He began patting his hair to smoothen it down, “Oh my God, this cannot be happening to me.”

Tristan looked between Jason whose mouth had dropped open and Buck who now looked very awake. “What am I missing?” he asked curiously.

Jason snapped his mouth shut and pointed a finger at Buck, “This is karma because you wouldn’t tell me his name.” He yanked on Tristan’s arm, “Carmen and I tried to introduce Evan and Nico back in January when Nico moved to the city!”

“Set up,” Buck muttered from where he was peering at himself in the back of a spatula.

“Introduce,” Jason corrected him. “Neither of them showed up,” he told Tristan.

Tristan’s jaw dropped open. He turned to stare at Buck. “So your THD - The Hot Dude - who you have been keeping completely under wraps from us — ”

“Who he baked brownies for as a welcome to the building,” Jason added helpfully.

“ — Who you baked for, who you’ve been hanging out-spending time-whatever you young people are referring to it as, for the past ten months, was the guy we tried to introduce you to.”

Buck couldn’t help but smile at Tristan even though he felt frazzled, “It’s so cute how quickly you got on board with J’s plan of setting me up that you knew nothing about.”

Jason laughed, “Introduce! It was not a setup. Tris did know. And you blew us off introducing you to a friend only to spend the evening with the guy we wanted to introduce you to!”

Buck glared at them as they leaned into each other laughing and clutching the other. “Yeah, yeah, laugh it up!” 

Front door unlocked, an automated voice sounded.

Buck hurriedly stood up, “He can’t see me like this!”

“Put me down!” Evan screeched from the entryway.

“You look cute! All soft and sweet,” Tristan protested softly.

“I’m dressed in plaid! Plaid pajamas,” Buck protested. “That is not the hot guy image I have painstakingly worked to cultivate in THD’s head!”

“Apologize for calling me a cheater you sore little loser,” a deep voice Buck knew very well even when muffled said.

“Daddy!” Evan wriggled his arms towards his father from where he was dangling upside down from Nico's arms, “Save me!”

Buck for a moment forgot his plight and snickered at the deeply conflicted expression on Tristan’s face. Do as his son wanted or allow this scenario to play out so Evan could face the consequences of his words.

“Evan.”

Buck swallowed hard and met hazel eyes. “Nico,” he said with forced calm as if he wasn’t standing there wearing soft blue plaid pajamas that thankfully still fit him without being indecent after the way he had been bulking up. He shivered as he felt the heat of those eyes trailing down his body.

“You look… sweet. I did not know you owned pajamas.”

“I, ah,” Buck flushed, his plan of wandering around in his threadbare sweatpants and clingy shorts had been a great one and he hoped Nico did not mention it around present company. 

“It was a Christmas present from me last year,” Evan piped up. “So we’d all have matchy.”

“I do see where you get your wicked ways from if this is the Evan you are named after.”

Buck tried not to laugh at the rich amusement in Nico’s voice and pretended he couldn’t see the way Tristan and Jason were looking between them.

“Evan’s not wicked!” Evan protested.

“Have you begun referring to yourself in the third person again or are you talking about big Evan?” Nico asked seriously.

“In the third person?” Buck asked hesitantly.

“I went through a phase,” Evan said honestly from where he was hanging upside down from Nico’s arms. He sighed with all the dramatics of an eight-year-old and lifted his arms toward Nico, “I’m sorry I called you a cheater.”

“And did you lose fair and square?” Nico asked sternly.

Evan pouted, “I did.”

Nico gently lifted Evan up.

Buck smiled at the interaction as Evan wrapped his arms around Nico’s neck. He hoped to God his heart eyes hadn’t made an appearance but decided to absolve himself if they were. Seeing the man he had been crushing hard on and was half convinced he was in love with on such friendly terms with his godson was causing him to descend rapidly into melty goo goo mode.

“I’d like a rematch,” Evan demanded.

“Next week,” Nico promised. “Until then you keep practicing.” He began to set Evan down only for him to cling on. He took two steps forward and offered him to Tristan only for Evan to cling on tighter. “What now, mi ragazzino ?”

“I want to go to Evan,” Evan declared.

Buck appreciated that Nico first looked at Tristan and only once he nodded did he close the distance between them.

“I believe this package would like to be delivered to you,” Nico said amused.

Buck smiled and gathered Evan out of Nico’s arms, allowing himself to inhale his cologne as he pulled back and settled his godson comfortably in his arms. “Package received,” he said in his most official tone, making Evan giggle.

Evan wrapped his arms around Buck’s neck. “Hi Evan,” he said sweetly. “Papa said I wasn’t allowed to wake you.”

Buck wanted desperately to tell the boy he could always wake him. His eyes flicked to J, a pleading expression on his face. When J rolled his eyes and sighed with a nod he grinned and looked at the little darling in his arms. “You can always wake me up, Evan. That’s godfather-godson privilege.”

Big blue eyes widened in surprise, “Really? Anytime?” he asked curiously as he rubbed his fingers against the collar of Buck’s pajamas.

“Anytime,” Buck promised. “You need me, you want to talk, you want to hang out, you want someone to take you out to play some ball or build sand castles, or go cloud gazing, or just skip down the street with, you can call me. If I can, I’ll always be there.”

To Buck's horror, Evan sniffed, his eyes filling with tears. He tucked his face into Buck’s shoulder and began crying. 

Buck’s eyes darted between Tristan and Jason in alarm as the little boy in his arms shook with the force of his emotions. He was surprised when Nico stepped closer, caught his hand, and guided him to gently rub Evan’s back. He nodded and moved to the couch sitting down with Evan in his lap and gently rubbing his back. 

Jason leaned over the back of the couch and gently ran his fingers through his son’s hair. “Sweetheart, you want to explain to your Evan why you’re crying? He’s confused,” he said softly.

Evan began speaking in a small voice, “When Daddy said we were moving here and it had you and beaches and Disney and would be a fun place to live and my school would be really nice, I was excited. But I didn’t get any of that.” He sniffed, “I only got to go to school for two months, and then it was all just remote learning and no friends and no Disney and no surfing and Papa was living at a distance so no hugs even. And I’m not saying Daddy’s not been trying his best for me but Daddy’s hugs are different from Papa’s and I need both and I like yours too.”

“Oh, buddy,” Buck squeezed Evan in a hug. “I’m sorry this has been such an exhausting experience.” Buck rubbed Evan’s back, “Moving itself is not an easy thing and you had to deal with a pandemic soon after. You’ve handled this with such amazing grace, Evan. Now that things are a tiny bit safer, maybe we could plan a day out on the beach?”

Evan sniffed, “I’d like that.” He slowly sat up and went to wipe his face.

Buck gently caught his wrist, “Did you wash your hands after you played ball?”

Evan nodded, “Nico made me. He has a whole process and everything.”

Buck nodded, he was well aware of Nico’s process of washing his hands. One he had been used to doing before the pandemic. He used his sleeves to carefully wipe Evan’s tears away. “That’s good. Are you feeling better for having cried it out?”

Evan nodded, “Tears are an outlet for my emotions.”

Buck smiled, the child was clearly repeating what someone had told him. “Yes, they are.”

Evan sniffed and lifted his arms toward Jason standing behind Buck, “Papa.”

Buck loosened his hold on Evan as Jason leaned in and effortlessly lifted his son up and out of Buck’s lap.

“Come here, my little love. I made berry hot chocolate for Evan. Would you like a cup too?” 

Buck shifted and watched as Jason kissed his son’s hair as he took him out of the room. He looked questioningly at Tristan who set a tray with four steaming cups on the coffee table. 

“Jason will just get his face washed. Maybe a little chat if Ev has more to say,” Tristan said softly. “You were good with him.”

Buck leaned forward and rested his elbows on his thighs, “Really? I felt like I was floundering.”

Tristan reached out and patted Buck’s knee, “You’re good.”

Buck looked around, “Where’s Nico?” He’d been so focused on Evan that he had missed where the man had gone.

“He left to give Ev a little privacy. This is not the first upset he’s seen him go through,” he admitted. Tristan smiled, “And I guess he took your nervous energy over him with him,” he teased. “So, Nico huh?”

“Don’t start,” Buck groaned and looked behind him to make sure the coast was clear.

“Oh come on, you’ve had him all to yourself for months. We should be allowed to have a little fun now.”

Buck couldn’t help but smile, “You’re so smitten. Everything with both of you is a “we”. It’s so cute.”

“That’s what happens I guess,” Tristan said fondly. “You have to admit it's funny that he turned out to be the guy we wanted you to meet.”

Buck groaned when Tristan just smiled his sweet soft warm puppy smile at him. He leaned forward, “Wait, he's not related to you, is he?”

Tristan tilted his head, “Would it matter?”

Buck took a moment to consider that. Would it matter if the guy he had been instantly fascinated with, was crushing hard on, was sure he was falling in love with, was related to his ex? He mentally poked himself. No, Jason wasn’t an ex. At least not just an ex. Jason, Tristan and Evan were his family. His friends like family. His chosen family, who had chosen him, claimed him and wouldn’t let him run away from them when he thought himself a burden.

“No,” he cleared his throat, “no it doesn’t matter,” he said confidently.

Tristan smiled, “Good.” He patted Buck’s knee again, “I've seen Nico grow up through pictures and stories and such. I met him a few times when he was a young child. He is my mom's sister’s daughter's brother-in-law.”

Buck appreciated the explanation. “So your first cousin’s brother-in-law," he said slowly. He nodded, “Got it.”

“That dinner earlier this year wasn't a setup right?” Buck asked.

Tristan immediately shook his head. “We wouldn't do that to you. Nico had recently moved here and we thought you two being close in age, two single guys, maybe you'd find a friend in the other.” He smiled, “Turns out you both were already ahead of us there.”

Buck smiled, “Not ahead of you exactly as we only met that night. But yeah it's been,” he sighed, “it's been really good.He's made the horror of this year a lot easier to bear just by being him.”

Tristan's face softened, “That's good. He's a really nice guy, one just has to look past the stern demeanor.”

“You mean his Resting Murder Face?” Buck asked with a laugh. “I like the contrast,” he admitted. He quickly continued on before Tristan would call him on it. “I see he's friendly with Evan?”

Tristan’s smile told him he had caught on to Buck but was letting it go. “He is. They've met infrequently over the years. Nico sends him presents ignoring anything we say. What Evan wants Evan gets as a yearly gift.”

Buck laughed, “That sort of adult, huh?”

Tristan raised his eyebrows, “Like you're any better on the gift front. Since we moved here he has been around. When he's here visiting Carmen and Tony he always makes it a point to come chat with Evan and give him the in person interaction he craves. They go play.” He sighed heavily, “It makes me feel like less of a garbage parent for moving my baby here.”

“Tris,” Buck said gently, his hand catching Tristan’s arm and squeezing, “it's a pandemic. You couldn't have known that. And don't think I don't know you tried to move back. It's unfortunate, but it is also just life. And Evan strikes me as the kind of little human who understands that this is just life being life once you explain it to him.”

“Yeah.” Tristan took a deep breath and released it while nodding. “Yeah, he gets it. His therapist said at times he's just overwhelmed and needs to cry it out.”

“Has he not made friends in school?” Buck winced, “As much as you can over a screen during class I guess.”

Tristan shrugged, “He has a few. But the time they have together is so limited. Taking him back to Vermont for the summer to have more outdoor spaces to run around in and be around family was a good decision but maybe we should have worked toward meeting up with some of his classmates.”

“For what it's worth I think you made the right decision to go. He needed a break from the city.” Buck looked around, “And to come back to this apartment and his papa in the same space even if you have to distance within? He told me he was happy.” Buck said softly. “I mean we spent two hours on a video call with him wandering the building to show me around.”

“I can ask my friend, Eddie, you know he has a son that’s a little older than Evan, if you guys can meet? It’ll be nice to have some people to meet in person even with a little social distancing, wouldn’t it? Christopher is a wonderful kid and I think he and Evan would do well sharing their thirst for knowledge.”

Tristan nodded, “That would be pretty perfect. I’d be happy to drive the boys to wherever, have Christopher over here, or take Evan over to theirs.” He sighed, “Just whatever works to give my baby some human interaction with humans close to his age that’s not via a screen.”

“Daddy!” 

Tristan quickly straightened up and smiled as Evan came near skipping into the room and launched himself at his father. 

Tristan caught him with a soft oof, “You're getting heavier. Must be all that fruit Carmen feeds you.”

Evan giggled and kissed Tristan’s cheek. “Today was grapes and blue cheese bites.” He slid down to sit on the floor. He reached for the cups and neatly moved them onto coasters, the green cup in front of Buck, the two red ones in front of Tristan and Jason, and the white one for himself. He pulled a tin of biscuits from somewhere under the coffee table and used a pair of tweezers to neatly set two shortbread biscuits on small plates that he set by each cup.

Buck met Tristan’s eyes and raised his eyebrows. Tristan shook his head.

“We're ready for afternoon tea,” Evan declared.

“Thank you, Ev. These cookies look nice,” Buck said, deliberately knowing exactly what J’s son would think of calling them cookies.

Evan opened his mouth and then closed it again. 

“In our family, these aren't called cookies, Evan, we call them shortbread biscuits ,” Jason said as he joined them. He looked at his son, “Isn't that right, sweetheart?”

Evan smiled shyly and reached out to fist his hand in the leg of Jason's pants as he sat down. “I can tell Evan about them?” he asked softly.

Jason reached out and caressed Evan’s cheek, “You can tell Evan all about them. Maybe he'll have some biscuit facts to share in return,” he said encouragingly. 

Buck smiled and listened attentively as his godson launched into an eager explanation of the difference between cookies and biscuits and why he preferred biscuits but still really liked chocolate chip cookies.

[There, surrounded by his chosen family, Buck finally felt at peace and like he belonged somewhere. To people.]

Chapter Text

“Gosh, it smells just lovely out here.”

Buck looked up from where he was washing spinach leaves to see CJ standing on the balcony with her arms spread wide taking deep breaths. He shook his hands dry, grabbed his phone, and snapped a picture of his friend.

“Fresh air?” he asked with a laugh as he picked up the colander containing the spinach leaves, vigorously shook off the excess water, and set it by the stove where Aaron was cooking.

CJ swung her head around, her strawberry blonde high ponytail swinging with her to stare at him with her big brown eyes. “Mint!”

Buck frowned, “Mint?”

CJ nodded, “Mint.”

“I don't have any Mint.” He exchanged a worried look with Aaron and wiped his hands on a kitchen towel before grabbing his phone again.

“New symptoms that include smelling things that aren't there?” Aaron offered.

CJ huffed, “I can smell just fine and what I am smelling is Mint.”

Buck stepped out onto the balcony, closed his eyes, and took a deep breath. His brows furrowed in confusion. He could smell Mint too.

He looked around baffled. “What is that?” There wasn't anything on his balcony. Slowly his head turned to the right and stared at the divider screen between his apartment and his neighbor’s apartment.

“It is coming from over there. I guess your neighbor got some Mint,” CJ said easily. She took another deep breath and sighed, “It smells so good. Gee, I miss my Mint tea.”

“Most of the time you open your mouth it's all normal. Then like 10% of the time it's all fuck this and fuck that. And then there are times when you're at your blondie daddy and mommy's princess best with your gosh, gee , and lovely ,” Buck teased as he gently tugged on the ends of her ponytail.

CJ grinned, “It’d be fucking lovely if one of you finally helped me cut my hair.”

Buck knew his face reflected just how much he didn't want to do that. “Ceej,” he began.

“No,” CJ interrupted him, her voice rising slightly in volume, “you have to cut it. I cannot deal with this. It's gotten to a point where it's intruding on my mental health. I just don't have it in me to maintain the length and take care of it anymore.” She took a deep breath, “You or Aaron do it, find someone who will or I'm sorry to go with this reference but I will Britney my head hair.”

Aaron gasped as he joined them, “You cannot Britney! Your parents will kill me.”

Buck took a small step back hoping the two best friends could bicker it out and leave him out of it.

“Then cut it! I have straight hair. What are you even worried about?” CJ demanded. “Everyone is getting pandemic haircuts but me!”

Buck took several steps back.

“I hear you have brought home more strays,” a deep voice said softly.

Buck smiled and leaned on the railing close to the divider. “My friends CJ and Aaron from C shift. The building they live in has some issue. They'll be here this week. Both are really nice. Like Malibu Barbie and Ken dolls come alive.”

A chuckle, “Good to know. And where did the fretter go?” 

Buck winced. Chimney and Nico had not gotten on to the point he hadn't even introduced Hen and Chimney to him.

“He went to Hen's. But he'll be back at some point,” he warned. “I'm sorry, I wish I could say no but…”

“But he is your sister's baby daddy and you are too nice to say no,” Nico drawled. 

“I agree. You are too nice for your own good. This world will eat you up, Buckley,” CJ said.

Buck turned his head to look at her and rolled his eyes. “Says Malibu Barbie.”

Aaron laughed and tugged on CJ's ponytail. “Brunch in ten. Are we eating outside?”

“Ohhh, may we?” CJ asked. “The sun feels great and the Mint smells happy.”

Buck laughed, “Sure.” He cleared his throat, “Nico, CJ loves your Mint. Whatever that is.”

“Nico?” CJ asked curiously as she came closer. 

Buck pointed his thumb to the side, “Nico, my neighbor.” 

‘THE HOT DUDE?’ CJ mouthed.

Buck nodded rapidly. He blinked as Nico's hand came around the divider, a small pot sitting on his palm. 

“You can have custody of my mini Mint while your guests are over since its aroma is appreciated.”

Buck smiled and gently lifted the pot, “Thank you.” He set it down on the window ledge.

“Thank you, Nico,” CJ said. “What do we do for the care and feeding of it?” 

“I watered it this morning so it should be good to go without for a day. Touch the soil, if it feels dry the day after you can spritz it down to moisten the soil,” Nico explained immediately.

“We'll take good care of it,” CJ promised.

“Good. Enjoy it.”

“You're so sweet, Nico,” Buck said, pressing his lips together.

There was a long moment of silence. Buck shook his head and waved away CJ’s inquiring look.

“Are we cutting my hair after we eat? I need a hair transformation.”

Buck sighed, “Okay, fine, we'll look up some tutorials. We're just cutting a straight line right?”

CJ sighed, “I suppose. I'd really like to go shorter. Have some fun hair for this ridiculous time in our lives.”

Buck held up his hands, “I'm not touching fun hair. I can handle being the most hated man in the LAFD for cutting your hair shorter because it’s your hair and your choice and you don’t have to look like a long-haired Barbie for anyone. But I will not be the one who not only cuts Malibu Barbie’s hair short but makes a mess of it while doing so!”

“But you cut and buzzed your own hair!” CJ protested. “It's almost the same,” she coaxed.

“Almost the same isn't the same as the same,” Buck defended. “And I didn't buzz mine, Nico did it for me and Eddie.”

CJ's head immediately swung around nearly smacking Buck with her ponytail. “Nico!” She called out.

Buck stared wide-eyed at her back. Trust Barbie to be ballsy. Or 2020 had just driven them to abandon all sense.

“He probably went inside and can't hear you,” Buck offered, explaining Nico’s lack of response.

“Can you call him? Or text? Whatever you think is least bothersome to his day,” CJ requested politely. 

Buck couldn't even deny her. She was just so nice . 

Buck quickly texted Nico. 

Buck - Can you come back out if you have a moment? CJ’s requesting.

“I texted him. He's not bubbling back.”

“That's fine. I don't want to intrude on his day. But if he does reply can you ask him if he'll buzz my hair for me?” CJ asked eagerly. “We've tested negative and everything.” She frowned, “He's a sensible man right? Not like out risking himself and others?”

“He's very sensible and doesn't go out risking himself or others,” Buck promised.

“How may I assist you, CJ?”

Buck and CJ both turned to look to the side. It was times like these that made him very aware of Nico's accent.

CJ bounced up and down on her toes eagerly. “I hope I didn’t disturb you, Nico. Buck said you cut his hair for him and I realize I am massively overstepping but I wondered if I could request you to cut my hair? I tested negative at work. And I'm happy to pay you for it.”

There was a moment of silence before Nico spoke. “I do not claim to be even an amateur at this. Do you have any sort of tutorial we could follow? I follow instructions very well.”

Buck shivered and wet his bottom lip at the idea of Nico following instructions very well. Get your mind out of the gutter, Buckley, he told himself sternly.

“You're amazing! Thank you, Nico. I'll just eat and find tutorials. I'll be here for the next week so hopefully, we can coordinate this. I just really would like this hair to go. “

“Find me the tutorials or picture references, CJ. Let us try and get this done for you today .”

Buck wanted to coo at how sweet and warm Nico sounded.

CJ clutched Buck’s arm, “You’re the best,” she whispered. She cleared her throat, “You're the best, Nico, thank you!” she said louder.

Buck pressed his lips together and slung his arm around CJ when faced with her teary eyes. He was torn between wanting to tear up in solidarity of her teary eyes and laughter at Nico being complimented. He knew the other man felt uncomfortable responding to them.

“I try,” Nico said haltingly.

“Ceej, Buck, food!” Aaron called out. 

“Can I make you a loaded bagel, Nico?” Buck called out. 

“Thank you, Evan, I'm on my smoothie. See you later.”

“Bye,” Buck and CJ chorused.

Buck smiled fondly at CJ who was bouncing onto her toes in excitement. 

“What's got you so giddy?” Aaron asked as he brought the plates out.

Buck grabbed two of the plates from him and set them down on the small table.

“Will we be disturbing Nico by eating here?” CJ asked softly.

Buck shook his head, “He'll be working inside at his table. He usually comes out for a smoke break.”

CJ made a face at him.

“He's trying to quit,” Buck offered.

“Good for him,” she praised. She went near the Mint plant pot and took a deep breath, her eyes closing in pleasure.

Buck shook his head and smiled at the picture she made standing there in the sunshine, appreciating a plant. His eyes flicked to the divider screen, counting down the days until he was alone again so that Nico would come sit outside and spend time with him. He smiled and went inside to help Aaron with their drinks.

__

Buck watched CJ standing out on his balcony by the divider. She had been chatting with Nico, with them passing her phone back and forth between them for the past twenty minutes. He shoved aside the sting of jealousy that was winding its way through him and told himself sternly to cut it out. He consoled his feelings by telling himself that Nico hadn't offered his number to CJ and was instead accepting her phone to check out the tutorials and reference images she had gathered. Only Buck had his number. Which Nico had readily offered to him the day they had met. He suppressed a pleased smile from popping up.

“I'm scared of what she's planning.”

Buck looked at Aaron whose eyes were glued to CJ. “I'm glad you don't deny your feelings?” He shrugged when Aaron looked at him, “I'm not sure what to say but saying it's quite manly of you to admit to your fear seems meh.”

Aaron nodded, “Makes sense. Aren't you scared of this?” He waved his hand toward CJ.

“I mean it is her hair. And she's been bitching about her long hair from the time I've met her. It’s also more than that, she’s been truly unhappy with her hair. I can't even imagine how much she pays for its upkeep.”

“Her parents send her the money for hair upkeep,” Aaron confessed. 

Buck raised his eyebrows.

“Her mom pleaded with her not to cut it so she told her she didn’t want to keep spending money on its maintenance. Their solution was to immediately provide her with a generous hair allowance.”

Buck tilted his head to the side, “Is that how she treated us for that fancy mani-pedi?”

Aaron laughed, “Yeah. She rakes up points getting the hair spa done which gets her free services or like half off.”

Buck smiled, “Sweet.” CJ had dragged him along twice in the last year for a mani-pedi and head massage while he was recovering from injuries. 

“How well do you know this Nico guy?”

Buck eyed Aaron, wondering if he detected a hint of jealousy in his tone or expression. CJ and Aaron had grown up together and followed each other into this career. Which had come as a shock to both their parents.

“He moved into the building on Jan 1st. I'd vouch for him. He's my friend,” Buck said confidently. 

Aaron nodded.

Buck decided to ask. “Are you ever going to ask her out or is there truly nothing there?”

Aaron chewed on his lip for a long moment. “We've been dating since Jan,” he admitted softly.

Buck's jaw dropped open, his eyes widening in surprise. 

“We haven't told anyone.” Aaron gave Buck a look, “Well, now I've told you.”

“Why is it a secret?” Buck asked gently.

Aaron lifted one shoulder in a shrug, “We wanted to be sure. Not raise our parent's expectations. Not raise anyone's expectations.” He blew out a breath, “And then 2020 happened, and the time to tell just hasn't felt right.”

Buck nodded. “Well, congratulations, man. Thanks for trusting me with this, I'll keep my mouth shut.”

Aaron smiled, “Thanks, Buck. I know you will. I would've told you a while ago but,”

“2020,” they chorused together with a laugh.

Buck sighed, “Your Malibu Barbie with short hair is actually a really cute idea.”

“I'll miss brushing out her hair. But I'm excited for her. She's wanted this for a long time.”

“A weight is literally going to be lifted off her head!”

“I have some pink and orange wash-out hair color stashed at home for her too,” Aaron confessed.

Buck smiled, “Dude, you're such a sap. I love it.” He was utterly charmed to see his friend blush.

__

“You are sure you do not want the lob? If we cut below the hair tie we will have enough hair. Cutting above is that tight bob,” Nico asked CJ.

CJ held up her phone, “I'm sure. Let's try for the shaggy pixie. The worst that happens is it doesn't look great. You can then buzz it shorter right?”

“Yes.” Nico lowered his arms, “Okay, so first we are cutting the ponytail off."

"It should be braided to make it easier to donate," CJ informed him. "Then we can follow the tutorial.” She swung her head to the side and looked at Aaron, "Do you want to braid it for me?"

Aaron perked up, “Yeah, I'll do it.” 

Buck watched Nico effortlessly stand up off the floor and move so Aaron could take his space. He smiled and patted the space next to him, pleased when Nico dropped down next to him.

“It’s really sweet of you to do this for her,” he said softly and completely sincerely. He quickly followed it up with, “You don’t have to say anything.” He knew Nico found it difficult to accept compliments. He was working on it but too much too often frazzled him.

Nico pressed their shoulders together, “It is really sweet of you to be taking in all your strays,” he said softly.

Buck sighed at the welcome human contact. He missed being hugged so badly. “I’m sorry about the constant traffic in and out of here.”

“In these unprecedented times for our generation, it is difficult to hold you being such a kind soul against you, Evan.”

“Otherwise you would?” Buck teased.

“I would,” Nico agreed and smiled at him.

At least Buck was sure he was smiling behind his mask. Nico said a lot with his eyes and tone when he was speaking.

“How is Eddie’s son doing?”

Buck shrugged, “He’s okay. Struggling. It’s a lonely time for a lot of people but especially the little ones.”

Nico sighed, “Understandable.”

Buck’s thoughts went to Evan. His Evan. Evan Richardson. His sweet godson didn’t deserve a pandemic as his welcome to LA. He gave Tristan all the credit for handling his job and the complete care of his and Jason’s son. He thanked the universe once again for giving that sweet boy parents who were so very invested in his happiness and well-being. He missed the kid and hoped he got to squish him in a hug soon.

“Done.”

Buck blinked out of his thoughts as Nico stood up and changed places with Aaron again. He grinned, CJ was fairly vibrating with excitement. He smiled encouragingly at Nico and flashed him a thumbs-up when the man glanced at him.

Aaron began filming, which Nico had agreed to as long as they kept him out of focus. Buck couldn’t help but film Nico and CJ from the angle he was sitting at. He figured what he was filming wasn’t something he’d share with anyone but Nico. He focused his camera entirely on his hot neighbor dude.

The low buzzing sound was the only sound in the loft as Nico neatly used the buzzer to slice CJ’s braid off.

“Wow.” CJ carefully rotated her neck, “Oh my heavens! ”

Nico waved the braid at Buck then extended his arm to CJ. CJ took it carefully from him and held it in one hand, running gentle fingers down her hair. 

“This is great.” CJ sounded choked up and on the verge of tears. 

“Cass?” Aaron said worriedly.

Nico’s gaze flicked to Buck, his eyes wide enough to tell Buck the man was worried.

“Ceej, you okay?” Buck asked quickly.

CJ heaved a sigh and sniffed, “I’m great ! I promise.” She turned and looked at Nico, “Please know that this means so much to me.” She swung her head and giggled at the way her short hair moved.

“You’re welcome,” Nico said gently.

Buck felt ridiculously proud of Nico for his response. He sighed at the shitty timing of the damn pandemic again. Not that there would have ever been a good time for one. But if not for the pandemic he was sure he would have been dating this man already. ‘Don’t start down this road,’ he told himself. He knew if he started dwelling on all the things he had lost out on the past four months he would work himself into a state. And that was the last thing he wanted to do when he had guests. And more importantly, when it seemed like Nico himself was having a low day. He didn’t know why exactly he felt that. But some days he just knew Nico wasn’t having the best day and he worked to make his friend smile with a meme or a joke that day. He longed for the day he’d be able to offer Nico a hug on a day like this.

Snip

“Careful.”

Snip

Buck shook himself out of his thoughts and refocused on what was going on in front of him. The snip snip snip of the scissors was honestly pretty soothing.

“Careful!”

He winced, Aaron’s nerves however were decidedly not.

Nico’s eyes remained focused on what he was doing. “How about I promise to continue being careful while I have scissors, a razor, and your ragazza's precious hair in my control, Aaron.”

Aaron sighed, “I'm sorry. I'm just really nervous.”

“Understandable,” Nico said in his normal flat tone.

Buck glanced at Aaron hoping he hadn't taken it negatively but the man just nodded.

“Who's been cutting your hair, Nico?” CJ asked in a friendly tone.

“I have been tending to it myself.”

“Really?” Aaron tilted his head, “It looks so neat. Are you a stylist?”

Buck watched Nico comb out a neat section, holding it securely as he snipped off a little at a time.

“No. But I use a razor efficiently.”

Buck shivered as he watched Nico’s fingers move elegantly as he ran them down the back of CJ’s head. He sternly told himself to behave and not get turned on by the man’s long fingers. 

He grabbed his phone and took another picture of Nico. The slight lifting of Nico's eyebrow and quick glance told him he had been caught. Good. He wasn't trying to be subtle. It was all kinds of wrong to hope that Nico didn't date and waited for him. But he hoped for it anyway. He wanted this man. Wanted to get to know more of him. Wanted him as his own. He felt it would be completely unfair to tell Nico that. To ask him to wait and see if things between them could go where he felt they could. Where they had been going before 2020 had thrown a wrench in the time they spent together. His job was high risk and he couldn’t ask that of Nico. He had enough self-awareness and therapy to know that as well.

His eyes caught on Nico's fingers again, moving so elegantly, lifting CJ's hair so gently, the snipping sound of the scissors adding to the grace of it all. He sighed and lost himself in the memory of how it had felt when Nico had buzzed his hair, the feel of the man's hands on him, and shivered. He had it bad. So bad.

Evan Buckley, you cut this shit out right now. He told the little Eddie angel on his shoulder to hush.

"I feel this is it," Nico said with one last snip of the scissors. 

CJ held up her phone and turned her head from side to side taking herself in, a wide grin on her face. "This is so weird!" she squealed.

Nico glanced at Buck, "Is weird preferred?"

CJ snapped her mask into place, turned and patted Nico's knee, "The lack of weight on my head, my neck, the lack of hair against my skin, seeing my face without all that hair defining it? It's weird and VERY COOL!" She ran her fingers through her hair and attempted to spike it up, "I can run my fingers through my hair without worrying about tangles!" 

"I am pleased for you," Nico said sincerely. He lifted his head, "You will need some styling product if you want to spike it up or style it. But I would not recommend you get into the habit of it right now. My mask strap pulled against the wax I had used and it hurt."

CJ nodded rapidly, "Solid advice, thanks! I'll wash it a couple of times and see how it's behaving. My hair is quite straight so it'll probably just lay flat."

Nico eyed her hair, "Your hair was quite straight as the weight of it pulled it straight and flat," he corrected carefully."Your hair may just jump and have some texture now. A little like mine." He glanced at Buck,

"You look so cute, Ceej," Buck complimented. "I have a bunch of hair products in my bathroom. Feel free to root around and try them out when you’re home and maskless." He looked at Aaron, "You do know how to use them, right?"

"Ah, not really," Aaron said slowly. "My hair just stays in place. I don't need to use anything but shampoo conditioner.”

Buck’s eyes flit over Aaron’s straight, thick hair. “Lucky you.” He turned to CJ, ”I'll help you," he promised.

"You guys are the best!" CJ extended her arms, "Air hugs all around."

Buck grinned and extended his arms, "Air hugs back." He looked at Nico and flapped his arms at him expectantly. 

Nico rolled his eyes, "No." 

Buck pouted at him.

Nico sighed, “The things I do for you Buckley," he muttered and extended his arms a few inches away from his body.

"That's not an air hug," Aaron protested, his arms extended. "That's like a pat.”

"That's true. That's a pat," CJ agreed. She flapped her arms like Buck, "This is a hug."

Nico looked at all three of them flapping their arms and scooted back. "Are you all on something?"

“Yes,” Buck said seriously. He grinned, "It's called being overtired and touch starved."

"You have been cleared at work though so why can't you hug each other?" Nico asked curiously. 

"Can't fall back into the habit of hugs and touches," CJ said frankly.

"I'm starving. Touch starved,” Buck moaned. He flapped his arms again, "Hug." He knew, just knew Nico was fighting off a smile at his antics.

Nico shot him a look then sighed and extended his arms, his eyes locked on Buck’s, "Hug."

Nico's tone was dry bordering on dull, but to Buck who had begun speaking Nico's language of brow speak and flat tones, it felt like a squishy hug.

Chapter Text

[Sent 16:55] Do you want smores?

[Sent 17:25] What is smores?
[Sent 17:27] Internet says it is marshmallow burnt with chocolate and biscuit 

[Sent 17:29] Marshmallow roasted and placed on a slab of chocolate with a graham cracker.

[Sent 17:30] And graham cracker is not a biscuit?

[Sent 17:30] Wait are we talking Southern biscuits or British biscuits?

[Sent 17:31] I have never eaten what Google tells me is Southern biscuit. Barring America the rest of the world refers to biscuits as biscuits.  

[Sent 17:31] I’m shocked you didn’t go with your favorite gif.
[Sent 17:31] Fuck!
[Sent 17:31] Nico! No!

[Sent 17:32] <gif Americans - Jonathan Carnahan from The Mummy (1999) saying Americans>

[Sent 17:32] Evil

[Sent 17:32] You wish you did not like it

[Sent 17:33] <gif - Marie from Aristocats sighing>

[Sent 17:33] I would like a smore to taste
[Sent 17:33] The internet tells me it is spelt s’more

[Sent 17:33] The internet would be right. 
[Sent 17:34] I’m lazy.
[Sent 17:34] Come outside in 5.

[Sent 17:34] Shall I bring coffee?

[Sent 17:34] Ohh yes please <smiley face emoji>

Buck smiled at the click click click he heard that indicated Nico was opening up the screen divider between their apartments. The grill would still be in place but it had wide enough gaps for them to effortlessly pass things back and forth. The fact that the divider could be separated was a secret that Buck and Nico kept between them. He hadn’t even told Eddie about it.

“Well hello, Mr. Rossi,” Buck whistled as he took in Nico’s attire.

“I just got out of a meeting,” Nico said easily as he began unbuttoning his shirt.

“Would you like me to play some music?” Buck teased.

Nico paused from where he was tugging his shirt out of his trousers and stared right at Buck. Their eyes locked and held as Nico slowly unbuttoned his shirt all the way and parted it to reveal his firm chest. Buck swallowed hard and wet his lips as he took in the dusting of hair on Nico’s chest. God , he wanted to touch so bad. He sighed as Nico lowered his arms to let the shirt slide off.

Nico leaned in and braced his arm on the grill, “We can try it to music at the next opportunity.”

Buck whimpered as Nico’s soft, deep voice felt like velvet being dragged up his spine. “You promised me that before,” he rasped out. “I came over all prepared and everything.”

Nico smiled, a slow pleased smile, “You came over mostly asleep and allowed me to tuck you into my bed.”

Buck groaned, “I can’t believe I was so tired I did that. Crawled right into your bed and fell asleep.”

“Crawled right into my bed, shamelessly sprawled out, and allowed me to tuck you in,” Nico agreed.

“Eddie refuses to believe nothing happened,” Buck grumbled.

Nico reached out through the grill and gently dragged his finger from Buck’s cheek to his chin, “It’s good to misdirect your best friend. Collect the ammunition to surprise him with at some other time.”

Buck shivered at the gentle touch and closed his eyes. He was so fucking touch-starved that he could cry at Nico’s simple touch. Nico held the side of his face, his thumb moving back and forth in a soothing caress under Buck’s eyes.

Buck leaned into his hand, “I don’t like you taking this risk. I don’t know if I’m safe.”

“Shall I stop?” Nico whispered.

“No. I need a minute,” he admitted softly.

“You may have it, Evan.”

Buck took a shuddering breath and turned his head, his lips ghosting gently over Nico’s wrist. He kept his eyes closed as Nico’s hand gently ran down his cheek before he pulled away. He felt him move away and only when he felt he was alone did he open his eyes.

He busied himself bringing the boxes of s’mores he had made over to the divider, tossed down a floor pillow, and plopped himself down. He looked up when he heard movement and sighed at the picture Nico made. Gray trousers that he knew cost a pretty penny, and a tank top that… he tilted his head and eyed it.

“Where’s your tank top from?”

Nico bent down and set down the tray holding two cups of coffee and two glasses of water, then smoothed his hand down his chest. “Hanes, I got it for nineteen dollars at Walmart.”

Buck blinked as he took in Nico’s pleased little smile. “You’re wearing what have to be a thousand euro trousers with a nineteen dollar tank top.”

Nico waved his hand carelessly, “The trousers are over a year old.” He passed Buck the cup and saucer of coffee.

“You’d carry it off even if it was brand new,” Buck pointed out.

Nico shrugged, “I would.”

“My supermodel,” Buck said fondly.

“Well, I would strip it off too but your audience is back and I do try not to be caught stripping on camera anymore,” Nico said easily.

Buck blinked rapidly trying to bring his brain back online. “Any more?” he croaked out. There was video of Nico stripping?! Would it be awful of him to look for it? And save it in his special Nico folder? He groaned as he watched Nico poke his finger at the melted chocolate before sucking the chocolate off his finger. “You’re awful! Don’t do that,” he scolded.

Hazel eyes flicked up to meet his, “I wash my hands better than half of America.”

Buck pointed at him, “Don’t.”

One shoulder lifted in a negligent shrug, “I do not have my phone on me to gif you.” He straightened up, “But as you get the gif reference,” he spread his arms, “Americans.”

Buck spluttered out a laugh. He sighed, “You’re hilarious. What coffee did you whip up for us today?”

“Cosi. It is mild and delicate. I would not want a more intense one to interfere with your rest tonight.”

Buck smiled, “You’re the sweetest.” He waited and watched as Nico clenched and released his hands a few times.

“Thank you,” he finally said.

Buck’s smile widened. He took a picture of the coffee with the s’mores then picked up the cup and sniffed at it. “Smells nice, thanks.”

“Pleasure. Thank you for my first s’more,” Nico said as he picked up the s’more and began examining it. 

“You’re welcome.” Buck hummed as he sipped the coffee. 

“The internet said this is a campfire dish.”

“Campfire? Oh, camping. Yes, I suppose it is. I was craving it and I had the ingredients so I just made it in the oven,” Buck explained. He bit back a moan as Nico's tongue came out to delicately lick at the marshmallow. “It’s uh it’s not gooey until you get through the top.” 

He pressed his lips together as Nico’s eyes met his then focused back on the s’more he was holding. Buck watched Nico prod the marshmallow with his tongue and asked himself why he put himself through this hell of introducing Nicodemus Rossi to new foods. Nico always tasted the elements separately and more often than not his tongue featured heavily during it and added to Buck’s mental spank bank. You are going to hell for jerking off to your neighbor-friend-man-you-are-almost-maybe-kinda-dating-and-you-so-adore.

He grabbed his phone and took a picture of Nico biting into the s’more and shivered at the pleased hum.

Nico flicked his tongue over his upper lip, “This is nice.”

Buck sighed, “Very nice.” He grabbed his own s’more and shoved it in his mouth to keep from passing a suggestive comment. Something Nico said finally penetrated through his haze of want . “What did you mean by anymore? Caught stripping on camera anymore? ”

Nico sucked the last bit of chocolate off his thumb, “Your audience has returned.”

Buck’s head whipped to the left to look at the building on the opposite side of the street. The women that lived in one of the upper apartments had been filming a daily pandemic vlog and for some reason focused on their balconies. Often . He looked at Nico, trailing his eyes in an obvious fashion down and up his body, “ My audience?”

“They have been filming your workouts.”

“Only because you workout indoors. They film you lounging about sunning yourself like a cat out here,” Buck accused.

Nico smirked, “Are you comparing me to a sweet harmless kitten, Evan?”

Buck laughed, “I am comparing you to a great big jungle cat all sleek and powerful, Nico.”

Nico stretched his arms above his head and groaned, “That fits.”

“Shoulder still hurting?” Buck asked sympathetically.

Nico sighed, “Shoulder and neck.” He lowered his arms and rotated his neck.

“I thought the yoga class was helping?” Buck drained the coffee and hummed satisfied with the snack.

“It was. Is.” Nico shrugged, “I am still not getting into the rhythm of it online in a group session. And the only one on one session she can offer me is at 11 am. It is fine. As they say, it is what it is.”

Buck leaned his head against the railing, “And how are English lessons going?” Nico had begun bi-weekly sessions with a tutor for English since he had shifted to work from home in early March in his quest to not sound as formal as he did. Buck personally thought that as someone who spoke English as a fourth language and was currently learning a fifth, Nico’s command over the language was excellent.

Nico sighed, “This week we do not say do not we say don’t .” He met Buck’s eyes, “So far it's not going good.”

Buck smiled, “I think you do just fine without contractions.”

Nico pulled his knees up and rested his arms on them, resting his cheek on his arm, “But it sounds stilted and formal, no?”

“I’ve never thought so. You sound like you. I have not for one moment thought of you as stilted, Nico. Formal at times perhaps. But that’s not a bad thing.”

“I may decide to move to the next on her agenda then.” His eyes flicked behind Buck for a moment before meeting his eyes again, “No strays this week?”

Buck chewed on his lip and drummed his fingers on his knee. “My sister’s pregnant,” he finally said. “Chimney is the father. He’ll be coming to stay next week for a bit.”

Nico blinked, “What is a Chimney?”

Buck laughed, “Howard Han,” he explained.

Nico made a face, “The fretter? Oh dear Lord, is that man coming to fret here again? Is that what you are telling me, Evan?”

Buck winced, “Yes, yes, and yes. I’m sorry, Nico. I mean he was fretting before but refused to explain it beyond he didn’t want to risk Maddie and she didn’t explain it either. But now that they’ve revealed the pregnancy it makes sense.” He shook his head, “Well no, his behavior was rude but,” he trailed off and shrugged.

“But you are too nice not to give him a roof over his head while he frets and is rude to you in your own home,” Nico said sagely. He turned his head and pressed his forehead to his arm, “I was hoping not to have to put the divider back up.”

Buck reached out and ran tentative fingers through Nico’s hair, “I was too. I’m sorry,” he said softly. Every time he allowed himself to hope his time to stop pining was finally here, life threw around wrench in the way. He took advantage of Nico’s bent head and continued stroking his hair.

“I suppose we shall make the best of it and tolerate your sister’s baby daddy so that you may get a bambino out of it.”

Buck stared aghast at Nico’s bent head, his fingers gently clutching at his hair, “Where on earth did you learn baby daddy from?”

“Porn, AO3, television, take your pick.” Nico turned his head a little and met Buck’s eyes.

“No way you watch porn that mentions baby daddy,” Buck said firmly. 

“I read porn that mentions baby daddy.”

The slow, hot smile Nico aimed at him made Buck want to tighten his hold on Nico’s hair and do things. All the damn things to this man. Ugh!

Chapter Text

November 2020

[Sent 13:55] Don't be alarmed but I tested positive
[Sent 13:55] As did J like two days ago
[Sent 13:56] We're quarantining at mine together

[Sent 14:14] Thank you for letting me know
[Sent 14:14] What can I do to help?

[Sent 17:01] My instinct is to ask you to stay far away

[Sent 17:03] <thumbs down emoji>
[Sent 17:03] Symptoms?

[Sent 17:05] Flu ish. Both of us are running a fever. We just woke up from our outdoor naps

[Sent 17:06] <hug emoji>
[Sent 17:06] We shall get through this together my friends

“Are you sure you're okay with the air mattress?”

Jason's head lolled to the side as he lay propped up against the balcony railing on a big soft pillow. “How many more times are you going to ask me that?”

Buck fidgeted, rotating his neck, “Probably a couple more times.” He sighed, “I feel like I should offer you my bed.” 

“And have you been offering your other strays your bed?” Jason asked with a little smile.

Buck laughed, “Don't you start too, J with the strays?” He stretched his neck to the side and met Jason’s eyes. He sighed, “I guess I feel I should offer for you to share my bed. Eddie was sharing my bed.”

Jason smiled tiredly at him, “Evan, I’m very okay with the air mattress, but thank you for the offer. To be honest, the thought of climbing up the stairs exhausts me.”

Buck made a face, “Confession, me too.”

Jason laughed, “Well then feel free to share the air mattress with me.”

Click click click

Buck looked up and smiled as the privacy screen was lifted away and Nico appeared.

Jason made to move back when Nico stopped him with a hand gesture. 

“Stay Jason, I shall move back to keep the distance,” Nico said gently. He looked them over, “You both look… flushed. Symptoms?”

Buck pointed his thumb at himself, “Fever, sore throat, body pain.” He pointed his finger at Jason, “Fever, cold, cough, body pain, fatigue.”

Nico sighed, “I suppose it is a miracle you both made it to November without it catching you.”

“True,” Jason agreed. He groaned, “God, my body hurts. I hope to just pass out and use this time to stock up on sleep.”

Nico inclined his head, “I do not believe the human body functions in this manner but the rest will do you good.” He lifted his arm and looked at the time.

Buck took in how GOOD Nico looked in his dark blue trousers and white polo. He got all dressed up for work from home and Buck loved that. 

He sighed, “You look so handsome.”

“Thank you, Evan," Nico said in what seemed to be his default deadpan manner.

“Oh no. Noooo!” Buck groaned and hauled his body up from where he was sprawled, ignoring his aching muscles, “Nico tell me that wasn't your compliment of the day! Tell me I didn't do it again!”

Jason slowly looked between them as if watching the world's slowest tennis match.

Nico’s lips quirked in a little smile, “Evan, you did not do it again.”

“Truly?”

“Truly.”

“You're not just saying that?” Buck pleaded.

“I am not just saying that,” Nico said gently.

Jason was now looking between them with a little smile on his face.

“It is 17:20. Shall I make you both something to eat so you may begin the sleep stocking-up process?”

“You don't have to feed us, Nico,” Buck protested blearily.

“He's a Rossi. They feed people. And provide care. And love. It’s what they do,” Jason said fondly.

Nico nodded, “Allow me to do my duty to my name, Evan. Soup? Simple to eat. With a sandwich? Or I have ravioli for that soup you pinned the recipe to the time-what-time ago.”

Buck bit down on his lip, utterly charmed with Nico. At Jason’s raised eyebrows he shook his head.

“I’m honestly craving that roasted pepper pasta but without the pasta,” Buck said.

Jason shook his head, “So you’re craving roasted pepper pasta sauce to drink?”

Buck laughed, “Yeah.” He looked at Nico, “Sorry, I know that was super unhelpful.”

Nico inclined his head, “I shall convert sauce to soup.” He looked at Jason, “And what would you like?” 

Jason smiled, “I’m good with the same. Thanks, Nico.”

“I will get started on it.” Nico tapped the grill divider gently then turned and walked inside.

“Have you spoken to Evan again?” Buck asked a short while later. They had both zoned out, Buck with his eyes closed and Jason staring at the clouds in the sky.

“No. He had a distance meet-up and picnic with Christopher. I didn’t want to risk affecting his mood seeing me obviously sick. He’ll call at bedtime.”

“No chance of just a voice call?” 

“Nope. That sweet Gremlin will want to see how I look. And I promised him since this all began that I wouldn’t hide anything from him.”

“He’ll worry,” Buck said, his heart going out to his godson.

“He will. Knowing you’re sick too will add to his worry.” Jason met his eyes, “Worrying for the people you love is a part of life. I trust Tris to help him express his emotions over it.”

Buck smiled, “Y'all are just the nicest team.” He yawned and shivered. “That’s nice for them, the boys meeting up. Are they getting along?”

“Yes. It’s been nice. They speak most days on the phone now. Or have their cams on while doing homework or reading. Just having another child’s company even through the screen has done wonders for Evan. And Eddie said Christopher seemed happier too.” Jason smiled at him, “Thank you for thinking of it and introducing them.”

Buck smiled, “Anything for my god baby.”

Jason laughed, “He sometimes pouts at Tris for calling him his baby but with you? He’s all about being your god baby.”

Buck’s face softened, “I’m all about being his godfather. I really am so damn happy you guys moved here. I’m sorry it’s been tough on Evan with the pandemic and being back in Vermont would have been easier for him at this point. But I can’t regret you guys being so close.”

Jason nodded, “I get it. And no matter what, I’m happy about being closer to my family.”

Buck didn’t even have a single doubt that J meant him. He was J’s family. His chosen family. And J was part of his. And now the two children of his heart had met which meant that at some point after this pandemic ended, he would get the opportunity to gather both his boys in a hug and spend time with them. He was looking forward to it.

He noticed Jason’s gaze shift to Nico’s balcony. “J,” he began carefully, then stopped, unsure what to say to him.

“Hmmm?” Jason hummed distractedly.

“Don’t,” he said gently. “Please.” He knew if Jason asked, he wouldn’t be able to keep from telling him every single thing he felt about Nico. And he wasn’t ready for that. 

Jason turned his head to look at him, his brows furrowed in confusion. “I’m sorry, what?”

Buck frowned, J did look genuinely confused. “Why were you looking at Nico’s balcony?” he asked curiously.

“He put up the swing. It looks even nicer in person. I’m glad it worked out for him. He sent me pictures but it’s nice to see it in person. He meant to finish doing the place up and then have a housewarming party. That obviously, sadly, did not end up happening.”

Buck’s gaze flicked to the swing and back to Jason. When he had seen the swing he had assumed it was just part of Nico’s ongoing designing project for his apartment.

“Why wouldn’t the swing have worked out for him?”

Jason curled up in the nest of sheets he was laying on. “That swing was meant to go in my bedroom balcony. But then we turned the primary bedroom into Evan’s room and there was no way I was keeping a swing for that little Gremlin there. To prevent a long discussion with Evan about it, Carmen suggested it would be perfect for Nico’s balcony and Nico graciously went along with it.”

Buck nodded, “Tricking your own son with his love for Nico. I like it.”

Jason laughed, “Ah, parenting.”

“So you weren’t looking there out of curiosity?” Buck waved his finger back and forth to signify him and Nico.

Jason frowned, “Of course not. I mean, I am curious. But when there’s something to tell,” he paused and shook his head, “or rather when you want to share, you will.”

“Just like that?” Buck asked softly.

“Evan, there was a lot I wanted to say when Abby was enjoying you as her boy toy. There was a lot I wanted to say when you hooked up with that reporter. There was a hell of a lot I wanted to say when you decided to get this place that your very new girlfriend liked as her hot firefighter boyfriend pad. Did I?” Jason asked seriously.

“No,” Buck admitted. “And I know you wanted to.”

“I didn’t because it wasn’t my place. And it still isn’t. Not unless you ask for my opinion. You weren’t doing anything illegal or risking your health or life which are about the only things I would have spoken up about.”

“But you’re my friend. My dearest friend. My family.”

Jason slowly pushed himself up into a seated position, “And you’re mine. That doesn’t give me the right to insert myself into your business and pass any sort of judgment. If you asked for my opinion I would offer it.” He smiled, “Just like you didn’t offer any opinions on me disrupting my career to follow my husband here. I could see on your too-expressive face just what you thought of me having to go through the certification process again and jump through all the hoops I had to.”

Buck hummed as he thought Jason’s words over. His friend, as usual, made a lot of sense. “What if I was doing something morally reprehensible?” he challenged.

Jason jut his chin out in a manner that screamed challenge accepted. “If you came to me and told me you were doing something that was morally reprehensible to you, I would insist we go to a doctor and have you checked out.”

Buck grinned, “What if I was doing something that was fine with me but morally reprehensible to you?”

“That would be my issue for me to deal with. If you didn’t see a problem with it, then I would find a way to deal with it.” Jason paused then continued, “I think the way the world is turning right now, it is easy to want everyone to conform to what one may feel is the right way and that that way is the only way. I guess I’m going to remain old-fashioned in this and say I can and will love you even if I completely disagree with something you’re doing differently than me. Be it political or,” he trailed off and shrugged.

Buck sighed heavily, “J, I hope you know that you’re a damn unicorn, and if I had the energy I would crawl over to you and smush your face.”

Jason laughed and lifted his own hands to his cheeks, pressing them lightly, “I consider myself smushed.”

Buck scoffed, “That is not a smush. That is, well I don’t know what that is but it isn’t a smush.”

“You’re ridiculous. Cease being so adorable immediately,” Jason said seriously.

Buck lifted his chin and said with all the haughtiness of Emily from The Devil Wears Prada, “No, shan’t.”

Jason burst out laughing, which suddenly turned into a vicious coughing fit that had Buck scrambling, half stumbling, half crawling over to rub his back. He wrapped his arm around Jason and held his friend steady as he continued coughing. It took several minutes for the cough to taper off. 

Jason sagged back into Buck’s hold with a sigh, rubbing his chest.

“That sounded brutal.”

Buck looked up from where he was checking Jason’s pulse to find Nico setting down a mug through the grill.

“It is hot water, lemon, ginger, and honey. Drink, Jason,” Nico said.

Buck observed Nico as he snagged the mug and handed it to Jason. Nico's face was expressionless but his hands clenched into fists beside him told Buck that he was worried. 

He smiled reassuringly, “He’s okay.”

Jason nodded, “I’m okay.” He looked at the contents of the mug and then at Nico.

“You always drink something Tristan makes for you between meals. I asked him how to make it,” Nico admitted.

Buck sincerely hoped his heart eyes hadn’t activated because his feelings had gone into melty goo goo mode. Nico’s brand of care was a lot of show and Buck loved it. For him to have made Jason’s comfort drink without being told to, or asked to meant a lot to Buck. He was only 1% jealous that Nico hadn’t made him anything.

“I am making you gingerbread hot chocolate. Would you like a mug now or later?” Nico asked.

Buck pointed at himself and mouthed, ‘Me?’ then winced as his inner voice, that sounded suspiciously like Eddie, told him off. Yes, YOU, you idiot. Who else will he be making hot chocolate for?!  Jason’s little snicker told him he was amused.

“Yes,” Nico said slowly, “you, Evan Buckley.”

Buck smiled widely, “I’d love some now. Thank you, Nico!”

“I shall bring it.”

Buck watched Nico walk across the balcony and head inside.

“You have no game whatsoever where that man is concerned,” Jason whispered.

“None,” Buck agreed. “I try. God,” he groaned, “I fucking try so hard, J, and sometimes I succeed and sometimes I just,” he covered his face with his hand.

“Sometimes you’re like an excited puppy for him.”

Buck nudged Jason, “Don’t be mean to me.”

Jason gently nudged him back, “I’m hardly being mean, Ev. It’s a compliment. It’s nice to see you happy and genuine with your feelings. I’m doubly pleased by the fact that these feelings are inspired by a genuinely nice man like Nico.”

“Yeah?” Buck asked softly as he moved his hand and met Jason’s eyes.

Jason smiled, “Yeah.” He nudged Buck again, “And, he didn’t have to ask anyone what drink to make for you. He knows exactly what you’ll enjoy.”

A slow smile spread across Buck’s face, “Yeah,” he whispered, “he does.”

Chapter Text

Buck watched Nico sitting on a floor pillow, his hands pressed together, eyes sparkling with pleasure as he surveyed the food spread across his coffee table. ‘Snap out of it,’ he told himself sternly. ‘Eyes don’t sparkle! Nico is not Dumbledore! Or Edward Cullen.’

Nico rubbed his hands together, “I am so excited to finally have this.” His eyes flicked to Buck and back to the food, “Talk to me more about it?”

Buck smiled, “Right. This,” he pointed to a box of chicken, “is Tandoori chicken. It’s chicken marinated in yogurt and spices and then barbecued. The spicier version of this would be chicken tikka. I got mint and mango sauces called chutney for you to dip with. Both are mild so they’ll help with the spice.”

“What’s that?”

Buck gently tapped the small box, “This is heat. Fried green chili pepper. They always send it as a side unless you ask them not to. I always do but since we ordered at yours it’s not in the system.”

Nico nodded. “So we can eat this with our fingers.”

Buck nodded even though Nico hadn’t framed it as a question. “We can also use a fork. No judgment here.” He smiled and picked up a piece of chicken, “I just use my fingers.”

Buck watched Nico delicately pick up a piece, holding it between his pointer finger and thumb as he examined it. His mouth went dry as Nico brought it closer, his eyes closing as he inhaled. Why is he so handsome? He bit into the chicken he was holding and told himself he could swoon over the man later when said man wasn’t sitting right in front of his face.

“This smells so… different than anything I have encountered before.” Nico opened his eyes and eyed the sauces in front of him then looked at Buck.

“I’m surprised you haven’t sought any out when you’ve traveled to London. It’s pretty popular there.” He popped the rest of the piece in his mouth and watched Nico take a small bite. “Well?” he asked, trying not to seem too eager. He figured it was a lost cause after the flirty texts they had exchanged while Nico was away but he had to at least attempt to be cool.

Nico smiled his small smile, “I like it.” He ate the rest of the piece he was holding with a pleased hum.

Buck smiled, “Good.”

“How do we eat the sauce if we are to eat out of boxes?”

It was things like this that made Buck wonder at the seemingly different worlds they came from. But since Nico seemed relaxed and happy to follow his lead he decided to nudge him along like he had with Eddie.

“Well if you’re okay with us sharing, we just dip right into the boxes. Else we get bowls or plates and split it,” he explained.

“I would like to stick my finger in them.”

Buck blinked and raised his eyebrows at Nico whose entire focus was on the two boxes of chutneys. “Stick your finger in it?”

Nico raised his eyes up to meet Buck’s then focused back on the chutneys, “Yes. And lick. To taste.”

Buck wondered what he had done to piss off the universe. Or please the universe, depending on how this could go, that he was being blessed or cursed with getting to watch Nico lick his fingers for the second time in a week.

“Go for it. I trust you. And your fingers and tongue.” He cleared his throat when Nico smirked at him, “The amount you wash your hands and the way you do, it’d be hard not to trust your fingers, Nico.”

“Sure.” Nico met his eyes and smiled then gently dipped his middle finger in the mint chutney. He quickly brought his finger to his mouth.

Buck shifted, cursing himself for matching Nico’s loungewear of sweatpants with his own which didn’t leave much to the imagination. He could not afford to get hard here. He swallowed hard as Nico’s eyes fell shut as he hummed around his finger. Those soft lips wrapped around his finger was an image he wasn’t going to forget anytime soon.

“Verdict?” he asked hoarsely. 

“Delizioso.” Nico opened his eyes and shook his head, “Delicious. What an interesting flavor.” He held up his pointer finger and waved it at Buck, “Fresh finger for my licking needs.”

Buck grinned, “Go on.” He put his lusty self in the corner and focused on enjoying Nico’s delightful reaction to the food.

Nico hummed around his finger again, “Tart yet sweet.” He met Buck’s eyes, “That is how it is supposed to be?”

Buck nodded as he dipped his finger in the mango chutney and licked it, “Yes. What do you think?”

Nico’s eyes moved from Buck’s eyes down to his lips and back up, “Quite delicious.”

They stared at each other for a long moment until a random shout from the street interrupted the moment. 

“Let’s have you try the mains,” Buck said quickly. “This is Saag, it’s puréed spinach cooked with ginger, garlic, onions, and spices. As we discussed the other day, I ordered us the Paneer option.” He tapped the other box, “This is Butter Chicken. It’s a classic so we had to get it. It’s tandoori cooked chicken, so similar to the tandoori chicken but the marinade is different. The sauce is a tomato cream sauce with a blend of spices.” He opened up a foil-wrapped package, “These are Naans to eat it with. I ordered the garlic, cheese, and onion so you can try a mix.”

“Thank you for this, Evan. Moving here, I had hoped to try new things and you have greatly helped with the experience,” Nico said.

Buck smiled at his friend’s sincerity, “It’s my pleasure, Nico.”

“Let us do this,” Nico declared. 

Buck watched him carefully break a piece of the garlic naan and take a bite. When he nodded, Buck figured he liked it. He was ready to show Nico how to eat with his fingers but as he watched Nico neatly wrapped the naan around a piece of paneer and saag and ate it. He smiled, yeah, his friend was going to do just fine here.

They were halfway through the meal, both eating easily around each other's hands as they dug into the boxes and Buck was feeling flushed thanks to the spices. He focused closer on Nico and found him looking like his usual relaxed self. 

“Could you pass me the chili box?”

Buck glanced at the box and then at Nico, “Really?” He slid it across the table to him. “It’s hot,” he cautioned again. “My friend Eddie thought he’d be good with it but he found it to be a bit much.”

Nico opened up the box, “I want the full experience,” he said as he examined the contents. “How hot could it be?”

“Um, pretty damn hot, Nico.” Buck was entirely sure he was talking about the chili Nico had picked up and not about him. He was a solid 65% sure he was not talking about Nico.

He watched apprehensively as Nico dipped a piece of naan in the gravy of the butter chicken, and then ate it. He wet his lower lip as Nico met his eyes and bit down on the chili. He had expected the man to reach for the ice water sitting beside him. But Nico just sat there chewing leisurely. Nico then surprised him by eating a piece of the tandoori chicken and then biting into the chili. Buck was getting nervous the longer Nico went without feeling the heat rush through him. Nico met his eyes then shrugged and bit down on the chili by itself.

“Nico, no!” Buck reached out a hand as if to pull the chili away from Nico. He pulled his hand back uncertainly when Nico hummed and flicked his tongue out to drag back and forth along his upper lip.

“I love it. It tingles.”

Buck blinked, his eyes flitting over Nico’s face to find him looking and sounding entirely relaxed. “You love it,” he said, confused.

“I love it,” Nico said pleasantly. “It’s got such a lovely mild kick to it.”

“Lovely, mild kick,” Buck repeated, feeling faint. “I felt like my head was going to blow off the one and only time I tried the chili. And you find it to be lovely and mild.”

“Perhaps you got a stronger batch of chili? Do you want to try one?” Nico offered him the box.

Buck reared back, “NO!” He cleared his throat embarrassed, “No,” he repeated pleasantly, “no thank you. You can keep that away, far away from me.”

Nico shrugged, “I will enjoy it,” he said simply.

“Maybe you’re so hot it cancels out the heat you eat,” Buck muttered. He flushed, he had not meant to say that.

“That is good to know,” Nico said with a laugh. “Unless you would like me to pretend I did not hear that.”

“I swear I do have a brain-to-mouth filter,” Buck insisted.

“So what I am to understand is that you lose the filter when it concerns me?” Nico asked with a smirk.

Buck rolled his eyes and sighed, “Yes.”

“That is quite acceptable to me, Evan.”

Nico smiled at him and grabbed his phone, taking pictures of his fingers holding the naan, and then dipping the naan into the butter chicken. Buck smiled back and relaxed. Everything was fine. Things between them were progressing nicely, they had a steady friendship going. They had all the time in the world to develop this feeling between them further.

Chapter Text

“I appreciate you putting me up, kid,” Bobby said tiredly as he took a seat at Buck’s table.

“You're welcome, Bobby,” Buck flashed him a smile as he quickly texted on his phone.

“You've done this a lot, putting various people up. You're a kind man, Buck,” Bobby said gently.

Buck flushed and nodded. “I could, so I did. I became a firefighter because I wanted to serve my community.” He looked at Bobby, “I fought with you because I wanted back on my job to serve my community in the best way I knew I could manage. I'm doing what I can.”

Bobby smiled and nodded. His heart hurt at Buck’s comment about them fighting. He had been wrong, so damn wrong with how he had displayed and expressed his worry over Buck post his surgeries. He was glad Buck had given him another chance in his life.

“And now I can feed you after all the times you’ve fed me,” Buck said with a bright smile. “What do you feel like eating?

"I honestly wouldn't mind a sandwich. No meat.”

Buck tilted his head and considered that. “How does an eggplant, roasted red pepper, and mozzarella sandwich sound?”

Bobby felt his mouth fill with saliva. "Delicious. And healthy."

“It is healthy. I just need the pesto to go with it. I'll grab that in a bit.”

“Which brand of pesto have you been buying?” Bobby asked curiously as he watched Buck prep the ingredients.

Buck flashed him a smile, “I grow my own basil and make my pesto. No more store-bought for me," he stated proudly.

Bobby smiled warmly, his heart full at how far Buck had come from the young man who only ate steamed and roasted vegetables with grilled meat to one who was now making his own pesto. With basil he grew himself!

“I'm amazed and doubly so that you've managed to keep your plant alive considering the number of double and random shifts you've been pulling." Bobby hoped his admiration was clear in his voice. "My basil plants sadly didn't survive my schedule.”

"Oh, my neighbor shares custody of them with me. So mine have survived and are thriving." His phone buzzed at that moment. He glanced at it, a smile lighting up his face, and nodded. "Good timing," he murmured and headed outside to the balcony.

Bobby watched him go and wondered at that smile. Buck's smile had changed when he'd read whatever had come through on his phone.

"Here we go," Buck set a jar down on the table. 

"You keep your pesto outside?" Bobby asked confused. "Did you get a mini fridge or something?"

Buck laughed and shook his head as he lay strips of eggplant in a pan to cook.

"Nico, my neighbor, had custody of the jar just in case I didn't return today. We aim to finish the batch we make within five days."

Nico. Bobby registered the name in his head and added it to his mental file on Buck. Chimney nor Hen had mentioned a name and had referred to Buck’s neighbor as just Buck’s neighbor or ‘that guy’. Which made Bobby believe they didn't know his name.

From what Bobby had heard from Hen and Chimney, Buck's neighbor was a jerk who had been quite disruptive toward their stay. But as it was a tale told by Hen and Chimney, he had taken it with a grain of salt. 

“Sounds like a good neighbor to have,” Bobby murmured.

“Definitely. Nico’s the best,” Buck said easily. 

Bobby watched him assemble the sandwich and layer on a generous helping of pesto. He took a deep breath, his eyes falling shut as the smell hit him. It smelled fantastic!

“That smells so good,” he said appreciatively as he opened his eyes.

Buck smiled at him, “It does. This is our batch done with a mortar and pestle and honestly, I don’t know if we’ll ever be able to go back to making it in the blender. This also has a mix of walnuts and pine nuts.” He gently pressed the sandwich closed, sliced it diagonally, and pushed the plate in front of Bobby. “Tuck in. You can eat here, on the couch, or outside. Whatever you want.”

“I’ll eat here. Honestly, I’m just so tired. We barely got any sleep during the last shift. I want to eat and sleep. Or at least lay down for a bit,” Bobby admitted.

Bobby picked up the sandwich and took a bite, humming in pleasure. This was exactly what he'd been imagining a good veggie sandwich to be. "Buck, this is amazing!" 

Buck smiled and sat down with a sandwich of his own. "I'm glad you like it. Using good quality ingredients has been such a game changer." 

"Where did you buy the bread from?" Bobby asked curiously. The baguette was perfectly crusty and delicious. 

"You know I think that's either from my friend Beth's pandemic baking spree or Nico got it. He did my shopping over the weekend and stocked me up. I’m not sure. I’ll ask.” 

Bobby smiled at Buck freely filling him in about his personal life. He absolutely considered allowing trusting someone to buy his groceries as personal. Food was important. It was an entire love language. He watched Buck hold his sandwich in one hand while rapidly texting with the other. He shook his head, he was used to all his kids being attached to their phones.

"So, tell me how it's been hosting different people?" Bobby asked gently. "It's a kindness you've bestowed upon people giving offering them a safe space. But how have you been doing with the lack of privacy? It's not easy to go from living alone to having people who aren't a significant other in your space." He realized he had sounded quite paternal with his questions but from the sweet smile Buck flashed his way it didn't seem like he minded. 

"It has been an adjustment but for the most part, it's been a good time. I can't say I would ever want Eddie to be separated from his son but since he had to be we decided to make the best of it." Buck grinned, "Aaron and CJ staying over was a grand time! We watched horror movies and ate junk food.” 

“And CJ finally got her pandemic haircut!" Bobby said enthusiastically. "She looks happy with the short hair." He looked over Buck's hair, "It was nice of you to do that for her. You've been doing such a neat job with your own." He ran his fingers through his hair, "I feel like a mess in comparison."

 “Oh, I didn't do it for her. Nico did. He's been cutting mine as well," Buck offered freely. 

There was that name again. Bobby took it as an offer to ask more questions. "Nico? So he's a friend and a neighbor?" 

Buck nodded, "Friendly neighbor for sure. But he’s more than that. He's my friend. He moved in, in January of this year and we just clicked. It's been really nice having someone my age who I have been able to build a solid relationship with." 

"That's nice for you, Buck," Bobby said warmly. 

“Do you want a haircut while you’re here? I could ask Nico if he’s up for it,” Buck offered. 

Bobby hesitated. He didn’t want to take advantage of Buck’s friend. Or make either of them feel like they had to be obligated to do so. But he felt like a right mess and a haircut would go a long way toward giving him a sense of control again. “I would appreciate it. But only if Nico feels up to it and is comfortable coming around us.”

Buck waved his hand, “We have a solid routine on that front now. I’ll ask him.”

Bobby watched Buck again text with one hand and eat with the other, shaking his head at how comfortable this generation was with a phone attached to their hand. 

Buck polished off his half sandwich a lot quicker than Bobby did and set his phone down.

“Okay, so Nico said he can’t do it today. And we’re working tomorrow. He’ll fix a time with us for the day after for your haircut.” Buck glanced over Bobby’s head, “I told him you’d like to maintain the same shape so just shorten and neaten everything up.” He paused, “Unless you want a change?” he offered hesitantly.

Bobby laughed, “No, kid, I’m happy with this, just shorter and neater would be great. I don’t require a pandemic change.”

Buck smiled, “Cool.” He stood up and set his plate in the sink, “I’m just going to make up my bed for you.”

Bobby protested, “Buck, no! I don’t want to kick you out of your bed.”

Buck shook his head, “You’re not. I’m volunteering. In fact I’m insisting,” he said calmly. “There’s just no way I’m letting you sleep on the air mattress, Bobby.”

“But,” Bobby began.

Buck put his hands on his hips, “You’re under my roof, young man and you’ll do as you’re told.” He grinned when Bobby spluttered and started laughing. He patted Bobby’s shoulder and headed up.

—

“Well it’s a good thing we didn’t carpool,” Buck said cheerfully forty hours later as he stood sorting out ingredients on the counter in the 118’s kitchen. “You head on home and relax, Bobby.”

“I’ll stay and help you, Buck,” Bobby protested.

“I’ve got this, Bobby. You go get some rest. Aaron and I will knock this out real quick,” Buck assured him.

Captain Glen Marchson nodded at Bobby, “We won’t keep Buck long, Bobby. He smiled at Buck, “I really appreciate you volunteering to keep us fed, Evan.”

Buck smiled back, “You’re welcome. I don’t mind the opportunity to show off the skills Bobby’s taught me.” He pulled a set of keys out of his pocket and waved them. “Door access and my apartment.” He tossed the keys at Bobby who caught them with a deft hand.

Bobby still lingered, “If you’re sure?” He really was so tired but didn’t want to leave Buck to cook breakfast and dinner for the entire of C-shift.

Buck nodded firmly, “I’m very sure, Cap.”

Bobby nodded again and turned to head down and out. He gathered his things and made his way out to his car and on the drive home reflected at the fact that at least the drive wasn’t tedious. Traffic hadn’t been as bad thanks to a lot of jobs being in work-from-home mode. 

In short order, he had parked in the visitor spot in Buck’s building parking and made his way up to Buck’s floor. Unlocking the door he went inside and through the routine Buck had shown him to put his things away and wash up. He decided he would make a plan for lunch and dinner since Buck was already cooking a fair bit that day. 

Pulling the refrigerator door open he glanced over the neatly organized contents and blinked. He was sure this was not how the fridge had looked yesterday morning. The shelves were full and organized in a particular manner. He took a step back and glanced at the door of the fridge. All the jars of sauces, bottle of milk, sodas, and beer were organized with the labels facing neatly out. His eyes flicked to the shelves again and examined the gap between the containers of fruit and vegetables. Everything seemed to be properly spaced. Too proper for it to be a casual thing. His eyes caught on the post-it note stuck on a baking dish on the second shelf.

‘Eat me. First, heat me at 200 for 10-15 minutes. Take me out once the cheese bubbles.’

He opened the chiller tray and wasn’t surprised to find the butter and cheese organized in the same neatly spaced manner. With more product in there than there had been yesterday. He drew the correct and only conclusion. Someone had shopped for Buck. And put his food away in a very precise manner. He recalled Buck mentioning that Nico had done his shopping over the weekend. Had the friendly neighbor done it again?

He shut the fridge door and looked around the rest of the apartment. Nothing looked amiss. He was quite curious as to who had shopped for Buck. Deciding to empty the dishwasher and put the dishes away as something he could do as a good house guest. He made his way over to it and pulled it open then stared at the empty dishwasher. He was SURE he had left a cup and plate in there. And Buck had filled it up with dishes before they left for their shift yesterday. Did Buck have someone employed to take care of his apartment?

With nothing left to do in there, Bobby decided to at least fill Buck’s little spritz bottle so he could come home and water his plants. He reached for the bottle kept on the window ledge and stopped. It was full. He sighed. There really was nothing else left to do but sit down and relax as Buck had told him to.

—

Bobby rubbed his face as he walked down three hours later. He had needed that nap. He paused and looked around. The loft was silent around him and it didn’t seem like Buck was around. He looked to the left and relaxed when he saw Buck standing out on the balcony leaning on the railing. He so wished Buck would back away from there. He headed outside to laughter. The laughter of two people.

“Hey, Buck, get C-shift all squared away?”

Bobby was aware of the sudden silence.

Buck turned and smiled at him. “Yeah, all good. I made a big pot of pasta in just garlic and oil. Aaron has a pot of tomato sauce going that people can doctor to their liking with black pepper or paprika. We made loaded omelets for breakfast.”

“And this is why you’re the favorite of Captains Marchson, Hoskins,” he smiled widely, “and Nash.” He was charmed to notice the flush spreading across Buck’s face.

“That’s charming.”

Bobby was startled to hear the deep voice even as he noticed Buck’s flush deepen. 

“Nico,” Buck murmured.

“It is nice that you are valued and appreciated for your contributions, Evan.”

‘Evan,’ Bobby mouthed to himself as Buck turned and leaned on the railing, extending his body out to look around the partition. He bit back his plea for Buck to be careful. 

‘You cannot tell a grown man that in his own home, Bobby,’ a voice that sounded suspiciously like Michael’s echoed in his mind. He frowned, why oh why was his conscience sounding like Michael here?

Bobby strained his ears to try and understand the soft conversation taking place but was not successful. When Buck began to turn he loosened his stance so he didn’t look as nosy as he felt.

“Uh, Bobby, this,” Buck cocked his thumb to the right, “is my neighbor and friend, Nico.” He raised his voice a bit, “Nico, this is Bobby Nash, my captain.”

Bobby felt a tiny bit disheartened that he was only Buck’s captain to him. He forced a smile on his face.

Buck smiled at him, “And my mentor.”

Bobby brightened up and smiled widely at Buck. “Hi, Nico.”

“Hello, Bobby.”

Bobby took note of the accented tone that accompanied the deep voice.

“I can do the haircut this afternoon at three, if that is acceptable to you, Bobby.”

Bobby moved closer to the divider and leaned on the railing next to Buck. “That’s perfect, Nico. Thank you, I appreciate it. Should I wash my hair for it?”

“If it is not sweaty then it is not necessary for me. You could wash it after and get any stray hair off you.”

“I’m looking forward to it,” Bobby said with a smile.

Buck smiled at him then leaned to look around the divider again. “I’ll keep everything ready for you,” he promised.

“Much appreciated. I shall see you in a short while.”

Bobby waited until he heard a door snick shut before he raised his eyebrows at Buck. “He seems nice.”

Buck smiled as he straightened up, “He is.” He tugged his phone out of his pocket as it pinged, “Nico’s the nicest.” He stared at his screen and huffed. “And just made a 90 point word against me in Words with Friends. Nico is also a jerk,” he pouted.

“A smart one who challenges you,” Bobby pointed out.

Buck laughed, “Yeah. He’s not a jerk. Nico’s the best.” He sighed, “Somedays he’s all that stands between me and rage rant posting on social media calling out assholes.”

Bobby spluttered out a laugh, “Oh? How so?”

Buck looked over his shoulder, then faced Bobby and lowered his voice, “I tell myself I wouldn’t be able to handle him judging me and finding me lacking.”

Bobby patted Buck’s shoulder, “It’s sweet that now you have two such friends. Eddie has already been it for you.”

Buck widened his eyes, “I know right?! Can you imagine them both teaming up to judge and mock me?” He shuddered, “Just no!”

Bobby laughed as they moved inside. He remembered what he had discovered when he arrived and waved his hand toward the refrigerator. “I don’t know if we still need to get groceries. Your fridge is pretty full. And there are a few bake-and-eat meals with notes on them.”

Buck nodded, “Yeah, Nico went shopping yesterday and stocked me up too.”

“And the food?” Bobby asked curiously.

Buck’s lips twisted in unhappiness, “He works odd hours or non traditional hours as he refers to them and struggles with sleep. Which results in me getting to eat the fruits of his awake hours.” He waved his hand at the corner of the counter where the breadbox was sitting. “He’s also bored. His pandemic thing the past two months has been to bake bread. You don’t even know the way Eddie and I feast like Carby Kings some days, Bobby. His rosemary and sea salt focaccia nearly made me cry.”

Bobby raised his eyebrows, “That good?”

“That good,” Buck promised. “Let me warm up a few slices for us to eat now with an olive oil and balsamic mix and a salad. We’ll pull out the lasagna he’s also left for dinner.”

“That sounds lovely.” Bobby sat down at the counter and watched Buck efficiently bring a delicious snack together. Yeah, he was very glad he had moved in here rather than accepted Hen’s invitation to move in with her family. Learning more about Buck and his life was always a blessing.

—

Bobby wasn’t sure what to expect but the tall man with hazel eyes and long dark lashes, masked up and dressed in dark blue trousers with caramel pinstripes and a white polo was not it. Had the man gotten dressed up just to come cut his hair?

“Really?” Buck asked as he eyed the man up and down.

Bobby took note of how FOND Buck sounded.

“Truly,” came the dry response making Bobby suppress a laugh.

“You’re going to get hair on your nice clothes,” Buck protested.

An impressive eyebrow went up, “I do not own not nice clothes. What would be the point of that?” 

Buck sighed, “Yes, yes, all your clothes are very nice.”

“I am lost as to your point then, Evan. I am not cutting hair naked.”

Buck spluttered, “I didn’t say you had to be naked!”

“In underwear then. It is not happening. These clothes are ready for the wash.” Nico raised his eyebrow again, “If you require naked or underwear, we can discuss that when your next haircut is due.”

“Nico!” Buck protested.

Nico caught Buck’s hand and pressed it against Buck’s neck, “I believe you are meant to accompany that with the clutches pretend pearls gesture for it to have much effect.”

“You are so bad,” Buck said with a laugh.

“It is fortunate for me that you love it,” Nico said bluntly.

“It really is,” Buck agreed.

Bobby watched fascinated as the two friends chatted and teased each other seemingly having forgotten that he was standing there. Suddenly they turned as one and focused on Bobby.

“Nico,” Buck extended his arm toward Bobby, “Bobby. Bobby, Nico.”

Bobby smiled, “Hi Nico.”

“Hello.”

“I’ll just grab a mask,” Bobby said.

Nico held up a hand, “You are cleared at work and I am masked up. That is sufficient, no?” he looked at Buck.

“Yeah, that should be fine.” Buck looked at Bobby, “If that’s okay with you, Bobby?”

Bobby nodded, “That’s fine with me.” He took in how utterly still Nico seemed to be while Buck in contrast was always in micro-movement mode.

“The chair like how you do mine?” Buck asked Nico.

“Yes, exactly how I do you,” Nico said seriously.

Bobby was charmed to see Buck flush at that. There was something quite adorable about this friendship and he was, as May had taught him to say, here for it .

Buck smiled at Bobby and grabbed a chair from the dining table, setting it down on the plastic sheet he had set down. 

“We are to just neaten it all up, Bobby?” Nico asked politely.

“Yes,” Bobby confirmed. He glanced at Buck’s hair, “I don’t mind going as short as Buck’s on the sides and back and a little longer on the top.”

“Oh, that is easy. Have a seat. This will not take long.” 

And it didn’t. The sounds of the buzzer, the snick of the scissors, the gentle touch on his head, and the extremely soothing vibe that Nico seemed to bring with him lulled Bobby into closing his eyes and enjoyed how the mundane experience of a haircut just relaxed him. He was never taking this for granted again.

Soft bristles running along the nape of his neck coaxed a yawn out of him. 

“That was so soothing,” he said softly as he met Buck’s eyes.

Buck smiled, “Yeah, you kinda dozed off.”

“I am so sorry, Nico,” Bobby quickly apologized.

“It is not required, Bobby. It is an honor to have someone relax this way.” 

Bobby heard the velcro of the cape Nico had put around him open up. Buck stood up and closed the distance between them, catching the cape as Nico let go. He took a step to the side and gently shook any clinging hair free of the cape onto the plastic sheet.

“I’ll sanitize everything, Nico,” Buck said as Bobby stood up.

“You are sure?” Nico asked.

“Yes. Day off, remember?” Buck said with a friendly smile. “And thanks for the food. Sure you won’t eat with us?”

“You are welcome. And I am sure. I will eat soon and go to bed.” 

Bobby turned and smiled at Nico, “Thank you, Nico.” He ran his hand over his head, “I feel a lot better.”

“Never underestimate the power of a haircut,” Nico said firmly. He glanced at Buck who nodded encouragingly. “You are welcome.” He took a step back, “I will take your leave now.”

“Bye, take care,” Bobby said gently. He really liked the young man.

“Bye, Nico, text you later,” Buck called out. 

Nico waved from the door, “Be safe, Bobby. I shall reply when I am awake, Evan.”

Bobby looked at Buck who was watching the door with a sweet little smile on his face. The moment Buck turned to look at him Bobby adopted an oblivious expression. “I’ll just take a quick shower and shampoo any stray hair off.”

Buck nodded, “Okay. I’ll be out on the balcony getting a workout and fresh air in.”

—

Twenty minutes later Bobby was sitting out on Buck's balcony enjoying the sun shining down on him while he did a crossword. Buck was in the corner working out. He had gotten tired just looking at the young man go through what he called a 'light' workout.

He glanced at his phone and smiled to see Athena Face-timing him. He answered the call quickly, "Hi."

"Hi honey, " Athena said warmly. "How are you doing?” She peered closer, “Did you get a haircut?”

“Yes, I did!” Bobby smiled, “Buck’s neighbor who has been cutting his hair did it for me. How are you and the kids?"

“That’s lovely. He did a good job,” Athena praised. “I’m alright. The kids are," she made a face, “miserable. But so far it just looks like the flu. I've got my fingers crossed there." She looked behind him, "Where are you?" Her eyes rover over the screen. 

"That's good. I'm in Buck’s balcony. Hang on I'll show you." He turned his hand and moved the camera around before remembering that he should have just flipped the camera as he showed her Buck’s balcony. 

"And there's Buck being very twenty-eight right now" he moved the camera to where Buck was standing doing bicep curls. 

Buck laughed and waved, “Hey, Athena!"

"Hi Buck. I must say you've turned the space into a lovely lounge area.”

Buck glanced around and nodded, "Yeah this space has become a major part of my days off."

Bobby took the space in again. A comfortable bench with soft cushions at the table, floor cushions neatly stacked, small pots of herbs that made the area smell just lovely, and little fairy lights draped all over the place. He took a breath, his eyes closing as the smell of fresh herbs soothed his senses.

“Michael’s asking if we can get you guys some food? Stock you up?”

Bobby turned the phone to face him again and shook his head. “Thanks, hun, but we’re all set. Buck’s neighbor friend even stocked up the groceries and shared his delicious bread with us.” He raised his eyebrows and nodded when Athena raised her own eyebrows back at him. Yeah, they’d definitely gossip about that at some point. Probably with Michael over some hot cocoa.

“Okay then, I’ll let you go. Enjoy your day off.”

“Thanks. Say hi to Michael and the kids and let me know if you need anything,” Bobby said. 

Bobby enjoyed his evening watching Buck efficiently adult around. Then enjoyed a lovely dinner with him which contrary to the things Chimney had said did not involve an easy meal on the couch with the TV on. Buck laid the table with proper table mats and cutlery, heated the lasagna perfectly, and served them perfect squares of it while they chatted about the shows and movies they had been watching. 

He promised himself to continue taking Chimney and Hen’s teasing and silly remarks with a grain of salt and remember how welcomed and comfortable Buck had made him feel in his home. He also made another note to remind himself to defend Buck’s Nico the next time Chimney went off about him while remembering that Chimney did not know the young man’s name. There was no need to allow that sort of toxic commentary to spread. Nico had been nothing but kind to him and seemed to share a warm and healthy relationship with Buck. Bobby was going to do everything he could to ensure Buck’s relationship thrived. That’s just what one did when one soul came across another that felt like family and adopted that young man as one’s soul son.

Chapter Text

[Sent 4:20] Heads up, two other co-workers heard Eddie is staying with me and invited themselves to join in.

[Sent 5:11]  <thumbs up emoji>  

[Sent 5:13] I will confess that when I saw ‘heads up’ I took it literally and lifted my head up

[Sent 5:21] Aww, Nico, that made me <smiley face emoji>   

[Sent 5:22] I figured it would <smiley face emoji>

__ 

“SHUT THE FUCK UP!”

Buck’s eyes snapped open at the deep thundering tone. He turned his head to look at Eddie who was looking back at him. Wide eyed they sat up in bed.

“What did you say to me?” Chimney demanded loudly.

“Oh no,” Buck moaned as he scrambled out of bed and rushed downstairs.

“You are not hard of hearing but I will repeat myself since it brings me much joy to say this to you - SHUT. THE. FUCK. UP,” Nico repeated slowly.

“Oh nooo,” Buck muttered as he rushed past where Hen was getting off the air mattress. He pushed open the balcony door and stepped outside. “What’s going on?”

Chimney huffed, “Some rando just went psycho on me yelling away!” 

Buck winced.

“Yes because some rando guest in my building has spent the past ten days talking loudly on the telephone at night time! Even after I requested several times for the volume to be lowered.”

Buck was silently proud of Nico for quickly understanding what rando meant and utilizing it in his response. He opened his mouth, then looked between Chimney and the divider privacy screen between his balcony and Nico’s, then shut his mouth. He was pretty sure if he began to placate Nico Chimney was going to take it quite badly and he honestly, deeply, madly, truly, did NOT want to placate Chimney. His behavior as a guest since he and Hen had decided to follow Eddie and move in had been severely lacking in good manners. He didn’t know what was going on between Maddie and Chimney but he was over the secrets already.

Chimney stared at him and threw up his hands at Buck’s continued silence. He turned his head to the left, “Some of us don’t have the luxury to be sitting safe in our apartments while the world burns around us!”

Buck’s mouth dropped open. What the hell? That was some presumption on Chimney’s part. He wasn’t wrong in that Nico was safe at home but to throw that at him was unfair. They had chosen to be first responders and it came with its own sacrifices.

“Oh fuck off with that off your high horse. Your career choice is your business. You are making your career and your lack of manners my business by disrupting my rest on a nightly basis and that is not acceptable.”

Buck shut his mouth that had gone dry and swallowed as Nico’s voice got softer and sounded closer. God, his voice felt like J’s amazing hot chocolate sliding down his throat and he wanted that voice to read porn to him. Hell, Nico could read a recipe for potato salad to him and he figured he could get off on it. Nico’s voice was magic. Porn for the senses magical.

He blinked out of his sleepy haze of Nico reading to him about whipping potatoes and butter by a nudge behind him. He didn’t need to know it was Eddie having come to stand at his shoulder. 

“— Long shifts and this is the only time I have to talk to her!”

Oh, right, this was still going on. Stop the horny, Buck, and attempt to adult! He told himself sternly.

“That is your problem. Where you are making it my problem is when you stand out here talking at decibels ill-suited for three in the morning. Even the Lord wouldn’t appreciate prayers at this hour, much less your fretting. Figure out where you dropped your manners and common sense and fit them back into you.”

Eddie snorted behind him and nudged his arm.

“Are you going to let him talk to me like that?” Chimney demanded.

Buck stared befuddled at Chimney. Was he being serious about this? Eddie nudged him from behind again reminding him that he hadn’t said a word this entire time. He cleared his throat, “What do you suggest I do? Put him in the corner in timeout?” he said dryly.

He knew, just knew Eddie was hella amused behind him.

“Nobody puts Baby in a corner.”

Chimney squawked in outrage.

Eddie burst out laughing.

Buck tried, he really did, but he failed, or some would say succeeded, and joined Eddie in laughter.

Hen pushed them both to the side and quickly began placating Chimney as she herded him inside.

As Buck and Eddie leaned into each other, he could admit part of their laughter was pure hysteria. It was a scary time they found themselves in. People’s terror, fear, stress, nerves, and anxieties were released in strange ways. He found laughter to be safe enough as a release.

He patted Eddie’s chest and moved close to the divider. “Sorry, Nico,” he said softly.

“I do not require you to apologize for other's behavior, Evan.”

Buck softened at Nico’s words. 

“Still. The only reason he’s here, disturbing you, is because I brought him here.” He lowered his voice to a whisper, “I’m sorry, but I can’t ask him to leave.”

There was a moment of silence before Nico spoke equally as softly, his deep voice wrapping around Buck like a weighted blanket. “It is only because he is your guest, invited or not, wanted or not, obligation or not, that I have tolerated his behavior for all these days. I do apologize that this is going to affect you but I will not tolerate it and stay silent any longer. Your fretter has courted war with the one you share a wall with.”

Buck shouldn’t have found the idea of Nico sounding so serious so damn hot. He sighed like a Disney Princess at Nico’s words, he was just so nice!

“May each day fill you with enthusiasm to face the challenges and adversaries in your path,” Buck said sweetly.

Eddie nudged Buck gently, “Chim’s an adversary now?” he asked softly.

Buck pressed his lips together and shook his head. He hoped Nico got the joke. Last month Buck and Neil had been discussing greetings from around the world and disagreed over Italian greetings. It had been a friendly conversation until Chimney had jumped into it and taken on a tone with him that had rankled him enough that he had texted Nico for assistance in proving Chimney was wrong. ‘It is my pleasure to assist you in thwarting your adversaries Evan,’ was what Nico had replied to his text with. 

“He is in the correct category.”

Buck smiled, yeah, Nico got it . He cleared his throat, “Nico, you remember Eddie?”

“The best friend,” came the prompt reply. “Cia-Hello Eddie.”

Buck shook his head at Nico correcting himself and speaking only English. He looked at Eddie, “Eddie, you remember Nico?”

Eddie smiled, “The not-so-new neighbor who you’ve become friends with. Hi Nico.”

“You are well?”

“We’re okay,” Buck confirmed. “Sorry, my phone died earlier so I haven’t seen any of my messages.”

“That is alright. Eddie, ¿están bien tu hijo y tu abuela?”

Eddie smiled softly at Buck, ‘He’s nice,’ he mouthed. “Están bien, gracias Nico. ¿Cómo están ustedes?”

“Estoy bien.” Nico sighed, “I bid you goodnight. I shall go make some coffee.”

“Have a good day, Nico,” Buck said softly.

“Goodnight,” Eddie said while staring at Buck. “Coffee?” he asked Buck softly as soon as they heard Nico’s balcony door snick shut.

Buck blew out a breath, “Nico works with that side of the word,” he waved his arm. “And from what I’ve noticed he has trouble sleeping. Chimney disturbed what little rest he must have been getting.”

Eddie winced.

Buck pinched the bridge of his nose and then dragged his hand down his face. Eddie had moved in with him three weeks ago. When Hen and Chimney had heard, they had followed. The difference was that Buck had invited Eddie and the other two had just expected they were welcome so that they could protect their families. While Buck didn’t exactly mind, Chimney’s attitude and overall behavior were severely lacking as a guest. He didn’t even know why Maddie had foolishly chosen now to move into Chimney’s one-bedroom apartment with Albert rather than keep to her own place. His question to her about it had gone unanswered. Ignored , his mind provided, she ignored you questioning her decision.

Eddie rubbed Buck’s back, “Let’s go back to bed, man. We need the sleep.”

Buck sighed, “Yeah.” He spent a minute putting the space to rights. He put the floor pillows back in their place, gathered the bottle and cups Chimney had brought outside, and took them in, depositing them on the counter and in the sink to deal with in the morning. He ignored Hen and Chimney sitting at the table, Hen rubbing Chimney’s back.

“Guys,” Hen began.

Buck stiffened up at her tone, that big sisterly tone. He was not in the mood for a lecture of any kind. This was his home, god dammit and he didn’t deserve that tone in his own space.

“I’m going to bed.” 

“We have to talk about this,” Hen said quickly.

He ignored her and began walking up the stairs.

“Buck!” Chimney said sharply.

Buck paused and turned to stare at Chimney, “You want to talk about this, Hen. It’s three am. We, Eddie and I, want to sleep. As do my neighbors, so keep it down. And Chim? Don’t ever take that tone with me while standing as a guest in my home.” He credited his good manners for not calling them what they were, uninvited guests in his home.

__

“STOP IT!”

Buck’s eyes snapped open at the whining tone. He turned his head to look at Eddie who was looking back at him. Wide eyed they sat up in bed, a sense of deja vu hitting hard.

“STOP!”

“Ugh,” Buck groaned as he rolled out of bed and trudged downstairs.

“STOP. IT!” Chimney demanded loudly.

“Did no one ever teach him indoor voice,” Buck muttered as he made his way out to the balcony.

“Technically, he is outdoors,” Eddie supplied unhelpfully from behind him.

“Keep your dirty logic to yourself, Diaz,” Buck muttered, making Eddie laugh.

“Buck!”

Sound of - Mario jump! Mario jump! Mario jump!

Buck stopped and blinked rapidly.

“Buck, you have to tell him to cut it out!”

Sound of - Super Mario death sound 

Buck tilted his head, “What is that?” 

There was silence. He looked at Eddie who had come to stand beside him.

“Chim?” Maddie’s voice sounded from Chimney’s phone.

Sound of - Mario jump! Mario jump! Mario jump! 

Buck’s head snapped to look beyond Eddie to the pretty stained glass effect privacy divider between his apartment and Nico’s.

“I’m here, Maddie,” Chimney said quickly.

Sound of - YAHOO! YAHOO! YAHOO! 

Buck glanced at the little of his sister that he could see on Chimney’s video call, then looked at Eddie who had pressed his lips together, his eyes bright with glee. To Buck, it looked like malicious glee and he sincerely hoped it was so that he had company in his wicked amusement.

“Buck! Make him cut it out!”

Sound of - Mario fall! Mario fall! Mario fall! 

“That’s Mario Kart,” Eddie said conversationally.

Sound of - Mario coin sound!

Buck’s eyes lit up, “That’s right! I guess I couldn’t place it out of context.”

“You mean out of context of my living room where you and Christopher play it and mercilessly mock each other and me?” Eddie asked dryly.

Sound of - Mario’s laughter! 

“That would be it,” Buck said sweetly.

Sound of - YAHOO!

“That would be Luigi,” Eddie said, squeezing Buck’s shoulder once the sound stopped.

“Buckley, focus!” Chimney snapped.

Buck’s head snapped to the side, his mouth open to tell Chimney off even if it would upset Maddie to hear him speak to her boyfriend rudely, Eddie’s hand gripping his shoulder when - 

Sound of - Mario, 'Oh No!'

Sound of - Danger alarm

They all winced at the sharp sound.

Buck reached up and patted Eddie’s hand. He appreciated his friend’s attempt to de-escalate the situation but it wasn’t one Buck was escalating. This was all Howard Han’s bullshit.

“Alright, guys, can we all take a deep breath?”

And here came Mother Hen. He winced at his uncharitable thought.

Sound of - Mario Falling Waaaa!

“Okay, what we’re going to do,” Buck began in his most authoritative tone, “is go inside to continue whatever this is,” he waved his hand between them all.

“But I’m still talking to Maddie,” Chimney protested.

Sound of - Mario Dead!

“We’ll talk later, Howie,” Maddie said gently. “In the morning when I get home or at some point in the day.”

“But,” Chimney began only to get interrupted.

Sound of - Mario Yipee! Mario Yipee! Mario Yipee! 

Eddie began laughing behind him. Buck couldn’t help but notice that Hen merely gave him a look, whereas he was sure if he joined in the laughter she’d send him the disappointed big sisterly look. He rolled his eyes, he had one big sister whose disappointed looks he didn’t care for, and was working to shed the weight of her expectations, he wasn’t allowing another to take her place.

Sound of - Mario sleeping sound - nighty night, ha spaghetti, ha ravioli, ha mamma mia!

Buck moved a step to the side forcing Eddie to move with him and pointed sternly to the door, knowing the expression worked because he used it at work. Hen and Chimney shuffled past him while Eddie pressed his head on Buck’s shoulder and shook with silent laughter. 

“Ah, amigo mío, eso fue maravilloso/My friend, that was wonderful,” Eddie said with a happy sigh.

Sound of - Mario jump 200 sound 

“Mi objetivo es complacer/I am to please. Buenas noches, amigos/Good night, friends.”

“Buenas noches/Goodnight,” Eddie said as he nudged Buck.

“Goodnight,” Buck said softly and walked inside.

He faced Hen and Chimney. Hen looked somewhat amused while Chimney looked irritated. Good, Buck thought, I hope he stews in it the rest of the night! He nodded when he wasn’t immediately flooded with guilt.

“Stop this, Chimney,” Buck said carefully. “My neighbors don’t deserve you aggravating them in the middle of the night.”

“That guy is psycho!” Chimney said.

Buck ignored his agitation and defended Nico. “He is no psycho. What he is, is fucking tired. And an insomniac. Which makes you the asshole disturbing what little rest he manages to get before he has to wake up very early to work.”

Hen winced and to Chimney’s credit, his expression lost its angry edge too.

“I didn’t know that,” Chimney still defended himself.

“Why would you?” Eddie asked. “Do you need to know details about the world around you before you behave appropriately?”

“Eddie, that's not fair,” Hen said softly.

Eddie waved his hand, “What’s not fair is that it’s past one in the morning and we have been woken up again. But we have the rest of the night to sleep and the day head. But what’s truly unfair is that that man was probably woken up by Chimney’s conversation and will now sit at his desk drinking coffee to get through his day.”

“I’m sorry but I had to talk to Maddie and see that she was okay,” Chimney said meekly. “I couldn’t do it in here, it would disturb all of you. I can’t go out into the hallway thanks to the rules of Buck’s building,” he aimed a mild glare Buck’s way.

And Buck was done.

“Then leave if my space and its rules aren’t something you can follow,” he said gently. “I’m getting complaints, Chim and I don’t deserve that. Nor do my neighbors deserve to be disturbed.”

He walked past them and went up the stairs. He was done with this day.

—

Sound of - Lord of the Rings drum

Buck tilted his head to the side, why was he hearing drums?

“WHAT NOW?!”

Buck’s eyes snapped open and met Eddie’s who was stretched out on the mat opposite him as they went through their stretching routine. 

“THIS IS NOT FUNNY!”

“Dios,” Eddie grumbled.

“If Dios didn’t come to save us from the Resident Evil video game we've descended into, it ain’t coming to save us from a grown man’s caterwauling,” Buck muttered. As much as he wanted to ignore Chimney and leave him to the mercy of Nico’s latest shenanigans, his conscience wouldn’t allow it. And he kinda wanted to know what fresh mischief Nico had begun retaliating with. He stood up from the mat and made his way out onto the balcony.

Sound of - Gimli's Laugh

“IT’S NOT NIGHT TIME! I’m allowed to talk on the phone!” Chimney protested. Loudly. 

Sound of - Discurso de Théoden

“Buck,” Chimney growled, “tell them I am allowed to sit out here and talk to Maddie during the day!” He waved his phone as he spoke.

Sound of - Smeagol cooing, ‘My Precioussss!’

Eddie didn’t even try to control himself or hide his mirth and just burst out laughing. He waved away Chimney’s growing ire and moved to stand closer to the privacy divider.

Buck tilted his head and waved at his sister as Chimney moved his arms. She waved back. His phone buzzed in his hand. He lifted it up and immediately pressed his lips together at the new message.

[Sent 16:11] He reminds me of the angry bird game the way he is doing the arm flapping

[Sent 16:11] I’m not even going to ask how you can see him.  
[Sent 16:11] Also, I fucking adore you, you giant troll!!! 

[Sent 16:12] I see you too. I like what the shorts do to your <peach emoji>

[Sent 16:12] <peach emoji> <hand waving emoji> <wink emoji>

[Sent 16:12] <biting lip emoji>

Buck smiled.

“BUCK!”

He reared back having for a moment forgotten about Chimney.

Sound of - Haradrim Horn
Sound of - Gandalf saying, 'Prepare for battle.'

Eddie burst out laughing again. Buck bit the inside of his cheek and looked at his best friend who looked thoroughly entertained.

“What, Chim?” Buck spread his arms, “I can’t control what anyone does. I can’t even control you. All I could do was request you to keep your voice down at night and stop disturbing my neighbors. Maybe your being out here is disturbing those working from home. I have no clue.”

Sound of - Gollum saying, ‘Oui'

Eddie snickered.

Chimney glared at him before focusing back on Buck, “Can’t you ask?” he demanded.

“Ask… how? Go door to door during a pandemic and ask which of them have a problem with you? Write notes, turn them into paper planes, and throw them at their windows from here?” He looked at Eddie, “Maybe balled-up paper will travel better?” No way was he admitting that he was on a formal group chat with the entire building and several informal ones with groups of them.

Eddie made finger gun motions at him.

“Buck,” Maddie finally said through the phone, “Howie and I just really do need to talk.”

“Why Maddie? Why do you two have to talk several times a day in secret? What’s going on?”

When Maddie said nothing and Chimney just shook his head, Buck threw up his hands and opened his mouth.

Sound of - Frodo saying, ‘Alright then, keep your secrets.’

Eddie lost it and began laughing so hard he had to sit down. 

“Look what you’ve done, Signore/Sir , you’ve reduced my best friend to hysterical laughter!” Buck said dramatically while pointing at Eddie. From Chimney’s perplexed expression, he knew he didn’t get it but he hoped the man it was meant for did get it.

Sound of - ‘For Gondor! For Gondor!’

As Chimney brushed past him and stormed off indoors, Buck moved over to Eddie, slid down beside him, and covered his eyes with his hand as he joined him in hysterical laughter. Every time they thought they were done and settled, they looked at each other and set each other off into laughter again. It was freeing and wonderful.

“Victory of the people,” Buck said with a pleased sigh once he had regained control of himself.

“God is gracious,” Nico said softly.

“Is this an if you know you know situation?” Eddie asked curiously.

Buck opened his mouth to explain, then decided against it and shut his mouth. He smiled, happy for this to remain between him and his friend-man-he-had-a-crush-on. “Yeah,” he said softly, “it is.” 

Chapter Text

[Sent 11:01] Hey, are you around? 
[Sent 11:01] Free?
[Sent 11:01] I'm outside.

[Sent 11:11] Hello Evan. I shall pop out. Would you like a drink?

[Sent 11:11] It's too early for alcohol and late for coffee.

[Sent 11:11] It is always time for alcohol somewhere

Buck smiled fondly and shook his head. He should be alarmed at some of the things Nico said but having gotten to know him he knew the man was joking.

"With the hours I work, technically it is time for me to drink all the alcohol."

Buck looked up, mouth open to retort, and promptly forgot how to speak. He stared wide-eyed at Nico strolling toward him dressed in just a shirt. He stared up at his bare feet, those sun-kissed strong legs covered in hair that Buck desperately wanted to feel sliding against his. He wanted to run his hands up Nico’s legs as he did things to this man. Delicious, pleasurable things. He swallowed hard as his eyes went over strong thighs and wanted to glare at the shirt that covered what he'd love to see. And touch. And taste. Moving up his eyes flit over the dusting of hair visible through the unbuttoned shirt, up to that gorgeous face covered in stubble, and met amused pretty hazel eyes.

Gentle fingers came through the gap in the grill and pressed against his chin. Buck realized his mouth was still open and shut it with a snap. He watched Nico grab a cushion off his deck chair and drop it down before settling elegantly down on it. 

"Cacao coconut milk smoothie?" Nico offered pleasantly.

Buck forced himself to look away from Nico's shirt. If he shifted even a bit Buck would be able to see a nipple. He was honest enough with himself to admit that he wanted to see nipples.

He accepted the bottle Nico offered through the gap and finally found his words. 

"What are you wearing?"

"A shirt," Nico replied blandly.

"I can almost see nipple," Buck blurted out and winced.

Nico raised one perfectly arched thick eyebrow and made a show of moving his shirt back into place to cover up.

"No!" Buck protested and squeezed his eyes shut. He wished Eddie was there to keep him from being his usual thirsty self for Nico.

Nico met his eyes and smoothly unbuttoned his shirt, parting it to reveal his chest. "Is that better?"

Buck huffed but couldn't deny that it was better. He swallowed hard and gazed at the male specimen in front of him. He loved that Nico didn't shave his chest and shivered at the idea of Nico's chest brushing against his. He wondered how it would feel. He told himself not to look down at Nico's briefs but failed.

He sighed, "Why are you dressed like a Calvin Klein model, Nicodemus?"

"It is laundry day," Nico said simply.

Buck raised his eyebrows, “And you, who enjoys laundry and folding, Marie Kondo's happiest student, didn't have enough clothes to wear while your laundry gets done?"

"That would be a lie and you know it." Nico leaned back on his hands and raised his face to the sun, “It is too nice a day to sit around indoors wearing clothes.”

"You're outdoors now," Buck pointed out.

Nico lowered his head and met Buck's eyes, "I did not think you would mind my being underdressed."

No. Buck did not mind. At all. Nope. He wet his lips and sighed at the little smile playing about Nico’s mouth. "You're trouble, Rossi."

Nico slowly straightened up and bent his right leg, clasping his hands around his leg and resting his chin on his knee. “I am harmless,” he assured. "You are the one who gives me the power, Evan."

Their eyes met and held, plenty being said without words. Buck still remembered the feel of Nico's body against his. The way they had hugged on their first and only date. The press of Nico's firm body against his, the brush of his stubble against Buck's, the softest single kiss they had exchanged that had felt like promises they really shouldn't have been making each other at that point in time. The way they had stood, forehead to forehead under the moonlight, hands gripping the other's hips, still as the world rapidly changed around them. 

Buck was unable to resist, he didn't WANT to contain himself anymore and reached out through the grill, running gentle fingers over Nico's hair, brushing back the lock of hair that was hanging over his forehead. He trailed his fingers down Nico's cheek and gently caught his jaw. He rubbed his thumb against Nico’s chin, enjoying the stubble that had no right to feel as soft and delicious as it did.

"Tell me I'm overstepping," he whispered, his eyes locked on Nico's.

Nico continued to hold his gaze and gently lowered his head, brushing Buck's thumb with his lips, kissing it softly. "You are very welcome in my space, Evan."

Buck was torn between sliding his hand down and caressing Nico's body and just sitting there staring sappily at him. It was a pleasant hardship to have after the agonizing months that had past them by.

“BUCK!”

Buck sighed heavily at the excited shout.

"Oh look, your fan club is back."

Nico's voice was at its driest best. 

"NICO!"

Buck snickered, "Right, my fan club."

Nico caught Buck's hand and pressed his lips against Buck's wrist.

"At least they aren't filming us anymore," Buck muttered.

The three young women who shared an apartment across the street had taken to filming a pandemic vlog and part of it had featured Buck working out on his balcony and Nico lounging about like a model on his. Their followers had quickly discovered Buck’s open Instagram account that the LAFD had urged him to keep after the whole ladder truck situation had gone national. People had flocked to it to keep up with his recovery. They had discovered who Nico was thanks to Nico commenting on the blog and requesting that they cease filming him without his permission. Thankfully it hadn't led to any hurt feelings. They had come to an agreement that they could film him when he agreed to it. Thus began their relationship where they filmed Nico when he sat around looking all handsome for them to include in certain vlogs. Vlogs where he was featured watering his plants or just sitting outside reading racked up the hits and comments.

They turned as one and waved to the women who squealed and waved eagerly back.

"Come spend the day? When does baby daddy return?"

Buck frowned and poked his finger into Nico’s cheek, “Stop calling him baby daddy, Nico. It sends my mind places it is way too delicate for,” he protested.

Nico laughed, "Aww, Evan," he cooed, "what do you think the fretter does when he goes for the day to visit his baby mama?"

Buck narrowed his eyes at Nico, “He frets there and paces around her instead of doing it around me.”

Nico shook with laughter and finally threw his head back and laughed, loud and unrestrained. "You are so adorable, like a, a," he waved his hand, "the roll food." 

Buck sighed, "Which roll food?" he asked huffily, ready to do his duty as a good neighbor-friend-luster of Nico and assist him in finding the English word even if it was to his detriment so Nico could tease him.

Nico leaned in, “The roll with the," he moved his finger in a circle, "and cinnamon and melted sugar.”

"Cinnamon roll," Buck said with a pout.

Nico snapped his fingers, “That is it!" He reached out and cupped Buck’s cheek, “You are adorable and sweet as a cinnamon roll, Evan."

Buck rolled his eyes even as he felt his face flush. "Where did you even learn that?"

"Ao3, where else? There is the tag x character is a cinnamon roll. If I were to write fiction about you Evan I would write, ‘Evan Buckley is a cinnamon roll,’ as my tag,” Nico said firmly.

"I am not a cinnamon roll,” Buck protested sulkily.

"You are my cinnamon roll,” Nico said warmly as he trailed his fingers down Buck’s cheek.

Buck swallowed, “Then you should write it as ‘Evan Buckley is a cinnamon roll 'cause Nico Rossi says so,’” he whispered.

“That is acceptable, my cinnamon roll,” Nico agreed with his sweet little smile.

Buck melted. He nuzzled his cheek against Nico's touch, “Your cinnamon roll," he whispered.

Nico rubbed his thumb under Buck’s eye, “Tough shift?"

Buck suppressed a yawn, “Busy shift."

"Are you going to sleep?"

"Not sleep, maybe rest."

“Would you like to come rest at mine? We can watch that White Collar show you wanted to,” Nico coaxed.

"Hmm, Matt Bomer has the most beautiful blue eyes," Buck murmured, Nico’s touch soothing him.

Nico raised an eyebrow, "Mr. Bomer also has the most beautifully clad ass to go with his pretty beautiful eyes.”

Buck laughed, "Oh? You’ve noticed, have you?"

Nico scoffed, “Like you haven’t.” 

"Did you watch him in Magic Mike? He plays a stripper."

"No." Nico shrugged, "I prefer his clothed behind."

"Yeah. Clothed behinds do it for me," Buck said with a smirk.

Nico trailed his thumb down and rubbed it against Buck’s lower lip, "I know." He pulled his hand back. "Come on, come over."

Buck wet his lips as he watched Nico smoothly stand up, glance to the right, and wave to their audience before he sauntered inside to shouts of, ‘Bye Nico!’ The last view Buck had of Nico was his shirt sliding down his shoulders and hanging off his arms.

He shifted, telling his dick to settle down, and hauled himself up. He waved to the girls, grabbed the smoothie bottle, and went inside, shutting the doors behind him. He allowed himself a moment to lean back against the doors and swoon like the smitten kitten he was.

If Chimney just stayed with Maddie or at Hen’s and left him be, he could finally make some significant progress with Nico instead of this inching-along business they had been stuck in for the past seven months.

He was so ready for it.

Chapter Text

Buck's head lulled to the side at the loud knock on his front door.

“Evan.”

He clenched his fists. It was taking everything in him not to respond to that voice. But he couldn't. He didn't have the emotional energy to hurry down and invite Nico in so he could bask in his attention and genuine affection. His phone battery had died hours ago and he hadn't bothered to charge it. A charged phone meant Maddie could continue badgering him. When she stopped Chimney would start badgering him for ignoring Maddie. Unfortunately, a dead phone also meant no Nico but he'd decided that he could skip his Nico interaction for a day if it meant peace from Maddie and Chimney. He’d already reassured J he was okay. As long as he checked in in twenty-four hours J would give him a pass on this.

He blinked as he heard keys in his door. 

"Evan, it is me. If you do not want me to come in tell me so now."

He swallowed, "I'm up here,” he croaked then winced at how dry his throat was. When was the last time he had drunk water?

The door shut and soft footsteps came up the stairs. Buck allowed himself to look his fill of him. Bare legs covered in a dusting of hair that he knew felt soft to the touch, black shorts, and a loose tank top in a fetching shade of sage that brought out the green in Nico’s pretty hazel eyes. 

"Shorts?" he whispered.

"It is Saturday,” Nico said simply. 

Saturday. Buck shook his head. Had he been lying there since he came home on Thursday after Maddie dropped that bomb upon him? Where had Friday gone?

"I think I lost a day,” he admitted in a whisper.

"Yes," Nico agreed softly. He crouched down beside the bed and gently tipped Buck’s chin up to meet his eyes, "What do you need, Evan?"

Buck took a shuddering breath, "I need to be allowed to have my thoughts and spiral.”

“Then you shall have it,” Nico said easily. "But you will not be allowed to deteriorate while doing so. Agreed?"

Buck nodded. 

Nico shifted his hand and cupped Buck’s cheek for a moment before gently pulling back. He grabbed Buck’s empty bottle of water and went downstairs with it. Buck closed his eyes as he heard the sound of water being poured and swallowed around his dry throat. He was suddenly so thirsty.

When Nico walked back up with his refilled bottle of water and a glass of water Buck sat up and reached for the glass. It had been charming to discover that Nico didn't like to drink water out of a bottle when at home. 

"I put the electrolyte sachet you drink in it.”

Buck nodded and drank the glass thirstily down. When Nico offered the bottle he nodded and tightened his hold on the glass as Nico filled it back up. After he had drunk it, Nico plucked the glass and set it on the table along with the bottle. 

"Do you think you would like some food?"

Buck tried to smile, “You're always feeding me.” He flopped back on the bed and sighed, “I don't feel like eating,” he admitted.

“Okay.”

As he stared at the ceiling he felt Nico sit on the corner of his bed. A few minutes later he blinked at a soft crunching sound and turned his head to see Nico popping something into his mouth. 

"What's that?” he asked curiously.

"Chocolate. Maltesers to be specific."

Buck felt his mouth fill with saliva. He loved Maltesers. "Share?"

Immediately the red packet was extended to him.

Buck plucked one out and dropped it in his mouth. 

"The way you are doing so while lying down is a choking hazard," Nico pointed out. 

“Been there, done that,” Buck said dryly.

“Oh?”

Buck took another piece and ate it a little more carefully. “I choked on some bread once. On Valentine's Day.” 

Nico raised an eyebrow. 

“I’m Buck. I learn after making the same mistake several times,” Buck said self-deprecatingly.

“As long as you learn it and the mistake does not become a habit,” Nico said easily. He pulled another packet of Maltesers out of his pocket and opened it. He ate one and then offered the packet to Buck. 

“Did you come armed with chocolate 'cause you knew I would refuse food?” Buck asked suspiciously as he plucked out a piece and popped it in his mouth.

“Yes.”

Buck blinked in surprise. “Yes?”

Nico laughed, “No. But I brought it on the chance that you do not feel up for food. It is the first time you have refused my offer of food, Evan. That tells me you find yourself in a deeply upsetting situation. I am here if you wish a ear. Or silent company.”

“Can we watch a movie and close out the world for today?” Buck asked softly. They had watched several movies. Some together while social distancing. Some as a shared watch party. And a rare few while giving into the need to be close when Buck was in the clear from work.

Nico inclined his head, “Certainly.”

“At yours,” Buck said quickly.

Nico stood up and held out his hand, “Come.”

Buck looked at Nico’s hand and then at his face. “We shouldn't be doing this,” he said even as he sat up, slid his hand into Nico’s, and allowed himself to be tugged out of bed.

“You were cleared at work and I am fed up of all this distance, as terrible as that sounds. We will sit primly at a distance and wear masks if it pleases you.”

Buck tightened his fingers around Nico's and followed him down the stairs. 

At the bottom of the stairs, Nico turned to him. “Do you wish to take anything from here?” Nico’s gaze flicked to Buck’s phone on the counter.

Buck groaned and thumped his head on Nico’s shoulder. “I don't want to,” he said petulantly.

Nico squeezed his hand, “Then let's go.”

Buck lifted his head, “Seriously?”

Nico lifted one shoulder in a shrug, “You do not want to and I do not care to judge you for it.” He squeezed Buck’s hand, “What I will do is text Eddie and Jason back that you are with me and taking a break for the day.”

“They told you?” Buck asked softly.

“Eddie asked if I had had contact with you. Jason asked if I would not mind popping in to do a check on you. Regardless of the prompting, I had planned to come check on you as my messages to you had not gone through since yesterday night.”

“You were worried about me,” Buck said breathlessly.

“I was worried about you,” Nico confirmed. “It is unlike you to be out of contact.” He met Buck’s eyes, “With me.”

And God , Buck adored him for how easily he admitted to what he was feeling. There was zero pretense with Nico. It wasn't a what you see is what you get but it was a what Nico said Buck believed. Nico said only what he truly wanted to say.

His breath caught at the first gentle brush of Nico’s thumb against his. He looked down at their hands, the whisper-soft touch brushing along his skin went a long way toward distracting him from the hurt raging within him. 

“If I may make a suggestion?” 

Buck blinked and focused on Nico. He nodded when he realized Nico was waiting for him to agree or disagree. God , this polite man, how he adored him so!

“We take the phone and plug it in. And leave it. The phone will be charged and ready for when you go to bed tonight as you do use it for your alarm.”

Buck tilted his head, “And what do you use for an alarm, Nico?”

“I have an alarm clock for when I sleep in my bed,” Nico said easily.

“Seriously?” Buck asked. He wasn't even sure why he was surprised. Of course , Nico would be different and wouldn't use his phone as his alarm.

“Why would I jest about an alarm?" Nico asked blandly. “There are much better things to make a joke about.”

Buck sighed and reached out, gently tapping Nico’s chin, “You are so cute I want to smush your face, Nicodemus.” His mouth dropped open when Nico slowly leaned in as if offering his face. “Seriously?” Buck demanded.

“You are upset. If smushing my face makes you feel better then I am willing to be smushed, Evan.”

Buck was reluctant to let go of Nico’s hand but he did not want to let the chance of smushing go by. He gently cupped Nico’s face, their eyes locked, and pressed his hands. 

“Smush,” he whispered.

“Smushed,” Nico said softly with his little smile. After a moment he pulled back. “Come now, let us go. I will allow you to smush me again later.”

Buck groaned and gently dragged his hands down Nico’s face before slowly letting go. Trust Nico to make smushing sound like fucking. He loved Nico’s voice that felt like velvet being dragged up his spine. And his tone when he spoke to Buck just felt indulgent and fond to his senses.

He grabbed Nico’s hand and tugged him along to the counter, grabbed his phone, and nodded. “Let’s go.”

Nico squeezed his hand and led him away from his apartment.

Buck was relieved the moment he crossed the threshold into Nico’s apartment and closed the door behind him. Even if Maddie came by insisting on talking to him, there would be no one to answer her buzzing. He shoved away the guilt that threatened to flood over him at the thought of making his pregnant sister stand outside but consoled himself with the fact that Maddie had to learn that she couldn't just keep invading his privacy and space and demanding he talk to her whether he wanted to or not, was ready to or not. He needed and deserved to have the time and space to process his feelings. She couldn’t keep policing her boundaries while obliterating his.

He glanced around Nico’s apartment as the man tugged him to the very comfortable couch that dominated the living area in front of the massive television and sighed. He missed just lounging around with Nico.

He eyed the tray of food set up on the coffee table and gave Nico a betrayed look. “I don’t want to eat.”

Nico squeezed Buck’s hand and let go then pushed him gently so he flopped back on the couch. "I," he sat down beside Buck, "want to nibble through a film." He lounged back on the couch, propped his legs up on the coffee table, and grabbed the remote. “If you feel so inclined you may nibble with me."

"I'd rather nibble on you," Buck muttered and dragged his hand down his face. Nico's soft laugh told him he hadn't been as soft as he'd thought or the man just had excellent auditory powers.

He slouched down and resisted the urge to nestle his head on Nico's shoulder. He snickered when he saw the movie title. "Die Hard? Seriously?"

"Die Hard Part Two. I am disappointed it is not titled Die Harder. I must know more about this chaotic, unwashed human being." Nico said seriously.

Buck laughed, “Unwashed?"

Nico turned to stare at Buck. “He brought a teddy bear on a plane and put it unwrapped in the overhead bin. Who buys such a gift for a child? And for just one child. Is his other child undeserving of a gift? You buy such a large gift to annoy your co-parent or sibling, and so on. Then he shows up at his wife's work party, oozing attitude and body odor and displaying an appalling lack of manners. He took his shoes off in someone else’s bathroom! Along with his shirt…,” Nico trailed off with a shudder.

"Shh shh," Buck said soothingly and ran his hand up and down Nico’s thigh. “You know John McClane riles you up, so don't focus on his unwashed, bare feetie ways, okay?” 

Nico had issues with germs cleanliness and right angles. Watching Die Hard had been an exercise in patience for him. But it had been hilarious and an amazing experience for Buck and Eddie to watch Nico get more and more frazzled as John had run around without shoes. He had spent most of the movie with his arms crossed over his chest, Resting Murder Brows in full effect as he glared at the screen. They had lost it at Nico demanding to know why John hadn't been in too much pain from his feet being cut up to move. And at his epic sulk over Hans Gruber falling.

Nico sighed resting his hand on Buck’s and lacing their fingers together. 

"Huh," Nico said as John McClane came on screen, “I guess Mr. McClane didn't lose a foot to infection from the first film."

Buck snorted, “You are so bloodthirsty."

Nico rested his head against the couch and turned to look at him, "It amuses you," he said confidently.

Buck nodded, “It does." He glanced at the tray neatly set up on the table and sighed, "What'd you make me?"

Nico waved his hand elegantly over the table, his eyes still on Buck, “Fox nuts flavored with ghee and turmeric, garlic kale chips, cayenne spiced peanuts and cashews, chocolate pretzels and popcorn flavored with white pepper, truffle salt, and butter because I felt naughty."

Buck ran his tongue along his bottom lip, "You shouldn't be allowed to utter the word naughty ."

Nico's eyes dipped down to Buck’s mouth then flicked back up, “And if I do?" He lowered his voice, “If I were to get naughtier and utter those words over and over again?"

Buck groaned and gently shoved Nico’s shoulder. A slow smile spread across Nico’s face as he allowed himself to be pushed.

"I'm having a day. A week. It's so mean of you to tease me," Buck grumbled.

Nico straightened up and clasped Buck’s thigh, “I am sorry, Evan.” He pressed their shoulders together, “I promise to be a very good boy for you."

"You're horrible, just horrible," Buck muttered. Nico’s touch felt like a band of heat on his bare skin.

"I just said I would be good, very good," Nico protested. "It is unlike you to be quite so distrustful."

"This is not fair!" Buck protested. "I can't stay mad and upset with you around!"

Nico ran his hand down Buck's thigh, “And you would rather be in an upset mood than, insert other emotion of your choice, here?"

Buck swallowed hard as Nico’s hand moved comfortingly up and down his thigh. "No," he whispered. "I'd rather not be mad and upset and hurt. Not when I’m with you.”

"There you go, my friend. I have done my part as your friend,” Nico said sincerely. He squeezed Buck's thigh. “It is difficult to see you upset Evan but if that is something you need to be, the emotion you wish to sit with, you must let me know so I sit in silence with you so you may," he cocked his head to the side and trailed off. “I am at a loss for the English word.”

"Sulk?" Buck offered. He smiled at Nico’s unimpressed stare. "Pout?" He grinned at Nico’s impressive eyebrow rising up. "Stew," he finally offered.

"Stew is the word."

"I'd much rather be quiet with you," Buck confessed. “It's difficult to stew with you when I could be present in this moment instead.”

Nico squeezed Buck’s thigh and nodded. "I enjoy being quiet with you as well."

They settled into watching the movie. Buck stayed in the moment as much as he could, Nico's touch on his thigh working to ground him in the present rather than on the shit show the week had been culminating in his sister telling him that they had a brother who had died as a child. He kept yanking his mind away from Maddie's betrayal. She had known how disconnected their parents had been from him and hadn't told him why. The realization that he had been brought into this world to provide the perfect spare parts for Margaret and Philip’s much-wanted son was hard to process and get past. No wonder they didn't care much for him. He had failed the only reason he had been created for. He winced away from that thought and clamped his hand down on Nico’s.

"Evan?" Nico said very gently.

Buck swallowed hard and shifted closer to Nico, turning and tucking his face on his friend’s shoulder. “I’m fine,” he whispered, trying hard to convince himself, knowing he wouldn’t convince Nico.

“You’ll be fine,” Nico said softly. “It will take some time but you will be fine, my friend.”

And Buck? He believed him. Nico had not lied to him. Not even over silly little things. Buck believed in his own strength too. He knew he would be fine. He had not allowed life to break him and he wasn’t about to start now. He had got past his parents and his sister’s bullshit once, he’d do it again.

—

Buck woke slowly and floated in the comforting warmth around him. He ran his hand down the blanket covering him, his thoughts reaching out for the terrible memory of dinner with his parents. Of Maddie telling him about her dead brother. The boy he had been created in a lab to provide parts for. The boy he had failed. The beloved boy a family had lost. Parents who had been stuck with him, a child they had only created to fix the one they had loved and wanted. 

His thoughts flicked to wondering if Maddie had finally given up on him when she had left home because he wasn't worth keeping in touch with. Or would she have done the same to Daniel and near ghosted him too, cutting him out of her life once she went away to college and got entangled in Doug? 

After finding out what he had, he had no intention of feeling guilty about ever ignoring his parents again. He laughed bitterly not that they cared. He hadn't heard from them in years other than an obligatory call on Christmas. It had always been him calling first. He'd stopped those as well after they hadn't gotten in touch with him after he had nearly died in the ladder truck accident.

He shifted onto his back and stared up at the ceiling. Philip and Margaret were only back in his life now because Maddie had decided they should be. And had not cared for his consent in the matter. He sat up and pressed his palms against his eyes. Hell, Maddie hadn’t even had the courtesy to give him a day to work through his feelings about the Daniel reveal before she’d shown up at his workplace to tell him he was fucking up by being at work. She’d also seen fit to send her parents to his workplace. As if Buck gave a fuck about their approval. And she had entrusted Howard fucking Han with her secret about her dead brother. Who had made no bones about the fact that he had a secret he needed to blurt out. Who had proceeded to spill said secret on a call. To a deranged bomber.

Buck clenched his hands into fists, bringing them to his forehead as he worked to tamp down the rage that had erupted within him again.

He took a few minutes to focus on his breath and do some box breathing as he worked through his thoughts. Her parents. That’s what Philip and Margaret were and had been to him for a long time. Maddie’s parents. If she wanted them in her life, in her child’s life, she was welcome to them. He was not going to be the pity attachment to the family she was building that for some reason required biological grandparents in the mix. He shook his head, he hoped Maddie’s need for biological grandparents didn’t extend to her contacting Chimney’s father. The man may be a dick to him, but he didn’t deserve to have his absent father back in his life just so Maddie could play cookie-cutter textbook, happy families.

Maddie. His sister. Who hadn’t even given him the courtesy of dealing with the massive blow she’d dealt to his worldview before demanding he cope quickly as per the schedule she had set so that she could make his upset all about herself. He winced and yanked his thoughts away from his bitter line of thinking. Going down that path of thinking lay betrayal and rage and could make him break away from his sister. His selfish sister who had main character syndrome written all over her. His sister who used her ability to cry easily to manipulate people.

He sat up, pressing his hand against his mouth as bile rose up at his ugly thoughts. He was ashamed at how cruelly he felt toward his sister who had been there for him when he was young. Logically he knew that her being a part of his life when he was young was her choice. He squeezed his eyes shut and yanked his thoughts away from Maddie. He couldn’t do this. Not here. Not now.

His thoughts floated to the love families he had all around him. People chosen through friendship and bound by respect and love. Jason, Tristan, and little Evan were his family and he dared anyone to claim otherwise. Eddie and Christopher were his family and he’d die for them. He’d also live for them. He thought of Eddie’s growing friendship with Tristan and Jason and hoped they created a sweet little friendslikefamily situation of their own. He thought of Karen and wondered if that wasn’t what she was doing with Tristan and J - creating her own friends like family with them. He kept out of that situation as much as he could since he didn’t care to be involved with Hen outside of work. Her temper had gotten shorter ever since she had begun medical school and he for one had no interest in being her verbal punching bag.

He slowly stood up and began folding the blanket that had been lovingly tucked around him as he thought of the man sitting behind the softly lit glass doors right now. Nico. His Nico. He hoped and prayed to the universe that he was gifted the life to see this thing with Nico through. That they continued to be blessed with the opportunity to be more for each other. To be their own version of friends like family. Until they became a family unit. 

He swallowed and wet his lips. Turning to the left he looked out onto the balcony that was slowly brightening up as dawn arrived to tuck the night into bed. He made a little wish for he had heard once a long time ago that dawn wishes came true - were heard by the angels - “I hope Nico becomes my family - formally.” He smiled shyly to himself, hope blossoming within him and gently beginning to carry the burden Maddie had callously thrown upon him.

He lay the blanket on the couch and lifted the glass of water beside his phone. After drinking it down, he set it beside the sink and came back to grab his phone. Turning off the alarm before it could ring, he shoved it in his pocket and moved to the area where Nico had his home office. 

He knocked gently and slid the door open to find Nico already turning to look at him. “I’m going to take off and get ready,” he whispered.

“Un momento,” Nico said and tugged his headphones off. He covered the distance between them in three large steps, his hands settling gently on Buck’s hips. “You are better to work?”

Buck smiled as he always did when Nico just spoke freely to him without attempting to speak grammatically correctly. He easily settled his own hands on Nico’s hips and tugged him closer, “I’m okay.” He tilted his head, “Okay to work. And I will make my peace with it. Soon.”

Nico nodded once, “You will. And I am in your corner with an ear if you require it.”

Buck took a moment to look into Nico’s captivating eyes. “Can I be absolutely honest?” he asked softly.

“I prefer it.”

Buck squeezed Nico’s hips, “I’d rather speak to my therapist and get my head sorted out and work through this. When I’m with you, when we’re talking, there’s the whole world to talk about. There’s so much to discover with you, I don’t want to waste time on crap I’d rather just deal with and let go.”

“Whatever you feel is better, Evan. You always also have my ear when you wish to complain that I have forever ruined you for Bobby’s chili,” Nico said with a little smirk.

Buck groaned and tugged Nico closer, “You’re terrible. Both of you won’t tell me the secret ingredient!”

“There is a secret ingredient?” Nico asked innocently.

“There is not an innocent bone in your body, Nicodemus,” Buck growled.

Nico laughed and pushed Buck gently, “Go away. You have to get ready. I have left you two boxes on the counter. Take them. The beige is breakfast and the other beige is second breakfast.”

Buck laughed, “Other beige? Second breakfast?”

“One is shade Bone, the other is Oat. Do let me know if you can tell the difference, Evan,” Nico said airily. “And you insisted on us taking the quiz. A Hobbit is a perfectly delightful being. Do not protest or judge my celebrating our Hobbity ways.”

Buck smiled and abruptly tugged Nico into a hug. “Thank you. For you,” he whispered in his ear. 

Nico slid his hand up the back of Buck’s hair, grasping the strands for a moment before sliding his hand down and massaging the nape of his neck. “Thank you for you too, Evan.”

Chapter Text

[Sent 15:11] There is an unknown woman in your apartment

[Sent 15:13] Elaborate???

[Sent 15:14] Correction -  There is an unknown to me woman in your apartment

[Sent 15:16] More info please!

[Sent 15:17] I was returning from an errand and I saw her go into your apartment. Your... guest opened the door to her. I do not know if he has your permission to have guests over
[Sent 15:17] You may consider this me tattling

[Sent 15:17] He has not asked for my permission.
[Sent 15:18] < grimace face emoji> If he had I would have refused.
[Sent 15:18] Please always feel free to tattle to me.

[Sent 15:18] The offer for you to use my spare bed continues to be available

[Sent 15:18] But not your bed?
[Sent 15:19] Sorry!
[Sent 15:19] That was inappropriate.
[Sent 15:19] I don't regret it.
[Sent 15:19] But it was inappropriate.

[Sent 15:19] Not my bed as I keep ridiculous hours and would feel guilty for disturbing your rest
[Sent 15:20] And you sleep starfish when tired. There will be no place for me

[Sent 15:20] I would make a conscious effort to make space for you!
[Sent 15:20] All the space!

[Sent 15:20] Noted

[Sent 15:20] <smiley face emoji>

[Sent 15:20] <smiley face emoji>

[Sent 15:21] I'm not taking you up on it cause then Albert will just feel free to completely make himself at home at mine.

[Sent 15:21] More at home than bringing stranger's about?

[Sent 15:22] Yes.

[Sent 15:22] I suggest you consider changing your sheets and doing a thorough cleaning before you sleep in your bed 

[Sent 15:22] Omg!!!
[Sent 15:22] He would not dare to fuck in my bed!!!

[Sent 15:22] And your couch. And kitchen counter. The whole apartment

[Sent 15:23] Nico!!!
[Sent 15:23] <gif whining sulking> 

[Sent 15:23] <gif - Sheldon Cooper from The Big Bang Theory patting Leonard Hofstadter’s shoulder, ‘There there’>

[Sent 15:23] Don't there there me <sobbing face emoji>

[Sent 15:24] <picture of Nico’s kitchen counter with a loaf of bread>
[Sent 15:24] Would sourdough with flavoured butter help aid in improving your mood?

[Sent 15:24] Perhaps...
[Sent 15:25] You made sourdough??? 
[Sent 15:25] I thought the starter was still a no go?
[Sent 15:25] Bobby is going to be hella jealous over the sourdough.

[Sent 15:26] You are such an American with the Hella
[Sent 15:26] And no I have not succeeded with sourdough but Betty’s boyfriend has and she traded me tiramisu for it

[Sent 15:26] Whose Betty???

[Sent 15:27] Betty. Across the street. She is part of your fanclub

[Sent 15:27] OUR fanclub!
[Sent 15:27] But more yours!
[Sent 15:27] Cause she’s not trading me sourdough!

[Sent 15:27] She correctly deduced I would share with you

[Sent 15:27] <smiley face emoji>
[Sent 15:28] When are you feeding me?

[Sent 15:28] I suggest you come after your shift. Eat. Rest. And then patiently go speak to your... guest

[Sent 15:28] You always have the best ideas Nico.

[Sent 15:28] I enjoy when you state the obvious

[Sent 15:29] <smiley face emoji>

[Sent 15:29] <smiley face emoji>

Buck didn’t want know what his face was doing while he was texting with Nico but he assumed he went through a range of emotions because Eddie was watching him with an expectant look on his face when he put his phone down.

“Nico?” Eddie asked fondly.

“Nico,” Buck confirmed. He sighed, “Albert has invited someone over to my apartment.”

Eddie’s eyebrows went up, “I’m going to assume he didn’t ask if he could.”

“Nope,” Buck said, popping the p.

Bobby who was sitting at the table doing some paperwork looked up. “That’s not okay,” he said slowly.

Buck sighed, “No, it’s not.” His eyes flicked to Chimney sitting at the other end of the loft, “I already anticipate an uncomfortable conversation if not an argument in my future.”

“Has Albert been a good houseguest other than this?” Bobby asked curiously.

Buck shook his head, “Not really. He eats off my fridge shelf when I’ve given him his own, helps himself to my leftovers or pre-portioned food without asking and he’s woken me up a couple of times because he forgets I’m asleep.”

“It’s been two weeks, right?” Eddie asked carefully. “Time for Chim and Albert to figure out other housing plans.”

“That’s going to be an exciting discussion,” Buck said with a roll of his eyes.

“I suggest you inform Albert of a date he must move out by,” Bobby said.

Buck smiled at him, “And what do I do when Chim comes to argue about it?”

Bobby shrugged, “Play dumb. Be sweet golden retriever Buck. He asked you to put his brother up temporarily and now you’d like your space back.”

Buck tilted his head as he considered that.

“Bobby’s right,” Eddie agreed. “Just inform and if he gets all huffy about it, inform him that you assumed it was a week to ten days max and it’s been more than that. You aren’t looking for a roommate. You already put up with Chimney overstaying his welcome. Not that he was an invited guest in the first place.” He shrugged at the look Bobby shot him, “What? He did overstay and he wasn’t invited!”

Bobby sighed and inclined his head, “I can’t deny that.”

“Good points.” Buck looked from Eddie to Bobby, “Thanks.”

Bobby nodded, “You got this, kid. Time to start standing up for yourself.”

Buck nodded. It was past time he began standing up for himself.

Bobby propped his chin up on his hand, “So, Nico, huh?”

Buck blushed and covered his eyes with his hand as Eddie burst out laughing.

__

Buck smiled at Nico when opened the door. He looked absolutely gorgeous. As always. He sighed dreamily and took in his brown lounge pants and brown t-shirt.

“Look at you all matchy,” he said. And handsome. So handsome, he thought.

Nico smoothened his hand down his chest with a little smile as he stepped back to let Buck in. “You like? I shall order you a set.”

“I don’t need clothes, Nico,” Buck said fondly. He appreciated that Nico had only taken a small step back so he had to brush past him to step through. He grabbed the opportunity provided and took a deep breath as he passed Nico, his eyes falling shut at the scent that he knew to be Oud, warm, rich, slightly sweet, and complex, that clung to the man. He took off his shoes and neatly lined them up in the entryway.

He glanced at the multiple dishes set up at the wall table seating then turned to walk backward as he looked at Nico, “You made a feast.”

Nico waved his hand elegantly, "It is by no means a feast, Evan. It is flavored butter, jam, cheese, and toasty bread.”

Buck stopped, turned around, and grabbed onto Nico's hips, "You, are a delight."

Nico's lips spread into a slow smile, "It is good to have confirmation." He placed his hand on Buck's hip and slid it up his side. "Come, sit and eat and taste my butter."

Buck tightened his grip on Nico's hips as he restrained his aching need to pull him closer. It was a genuine ache to keep him at a distance.

“I want to lick your butter.” Buck squeezed Nico’s hips again and slowly let go. "He ate the peanut noodles I had made for us," he said to distract himself from his feelings. And from wanting to tuck his face against Nico’s neck to sniff him. And lick.

"He has been in America long enough for me to use the Americans GIF for him, no?" Nico's lips quirked in a slight smile.

Buck laughed, "Eh, 50-50 I guess. I'm going to wash up." 

He headed for the bathroom and thoroughly washed his hands. He made his way to the wall seating, settling down on the comfortable padded bench with a pleased hum. He watched Nico bring a tray to the table and didn't offer to help. By now he knew that Nico had a system and he'd ask for assistance when he required it.

"This is," Buck sighed deeply, "lovely." He smiled at Nico, "Thank you."

Nico inclined his head as he sat down next to Buck, "My pleasure." He lifted a mug off the tray and placed it in front ofBuck. "That Moroccan mint tea you enjoy."

Buck nodded and eyed Nico's cup, "Which cup of coffee is that? Your eight for the day?"

Nico shook his head, "You greatly exaggerate the amount of coffee I consume." He met Buck’s eyes, "This is number four.” 

Buck opened his mouth to protest four coffees by ten in the morning when Nico took the wind out of his sails.

"And it is decaf."

Buck snapped his mouth shut as he stared at his friend-crush-man-he-adored, trying to read if he was joking with him. Damn your Resting Murder Face, Nico!

Nico reached out and gently rubbed his finger between Buck’s eyebrows, "You may believe me. I am truly drinking flavored water."

Buck laughed, "Decaf is not flavored water "

"It is to me," Nico said flatly. He picked up his mug and inhaled, "At least it smells a minuscule bit like real coffee."

Buck picked up his mug of tea and inhaled, his eyes fluttering shut as the mint teased his senses. "This is the good stuff. You could switch to tea?" He suggested for what felt like the hundredth time.

Nico shook his head, "I cannot do the tea before noon. It feels like I am giving up on life and betraying my nectar."

Buck snickered at Nico’s serious tone. "You and your coffee, Rossi."

"I have long made my peace with it and celebrate my lust affair with coffee," Nico said with a sweet little smile.

"Lust affair. You adorable soul.” Buck smiled and took a sip of his tea, "Hmmm good stuff." He glanced between the mugs, "Are these new?"

"Not new. But I had not seen a need for them until recently." Nico sighed, "I cannot put the decaf coffee in the coffee mug, Evan. It felt like bordering on infidelity.” He rested his cheek on his fist, “I know how it sounds. I have reached that overthinking hysterical stage of 2020."

Buck pressed his lips together to keep from cooing and smushing Nico's face. Why was he so damn cute?! He swallowed hard and told himself to cut it out and be a good friend to Nico while his friend went through this emotional crisis. 

"Well you made it all the way to December before reaching that stage so congratulations there." He patted Nico's shoulder, "And honestly the different mugs thing is very you. You don't even drink soda out of your water glass. It’s fine. It’s quirky. Like you."

"Quirky?" Nico asked. "I do not know if I am pleased or appalled to be considered such."

"Mull it over,” Buck suggested. 

"I shall," Nico agreed.

Buck picked up the neatly sliced sourdough and bit into it. "Hmmmm," he closed his eyes and moaned appreciatively. As he chewed he enjoyed the texture of the sourdough, its unique flavor and the deliciousness of the butter that had sunk into it. He opened his eyes to find Nico watching him with his sweet little smile on his face. “Cinnamon butter?" He asked.

“Cinnamon butter,” Nico confirmed. "You do not have to try the jam and cheese combination. It is something my brother made me since I was little and I still enjoy it. It is raspberry jam and brie if you are curious.”

Buck smiled, ”Are you kidding? I love the cheese and jam combo. Evan made me try it a couple of years ago and it was..." he trailed off and sat up. “So you're the one who introduced Evan to it?” He asked curiously.

"In my defense, I was pulled in as a last resort for Evan sitting. With all the instructions I was given regarding minding the child not one mentioned not to feed the Gremlin after midnight,” Nico said in his usual bland manner.

Buck stared at Nico for a moment then burst out laughing. "Are you also the reason my precious perfect godson got the nickname Gremlin?" he demanded.

"That was my doing and I am proud of it. You will not diminish my pride over it,” Nico said seriously. "Your godson at age four was a Gremlin and he is no better at age eight.”

Buck wagged his finger, "My Evan is perfect, Nico."

Nico tapped his finger against Buck’s as if they were sword fighting, "A perfect Gremlin-Mogwai hybrid, yes."

Buck shook his head, wrapping his finger around Nico's and tugging gently, "I can cast all my life’s worries aside when I’m with you.“

Nico smiled "I am pleased with the power you assign me, Evan."

Buck picked up another piece of sourdough and ate it while observing Nico. "You don't want to know what I've decided to do about, Albert?"

Nico inclined his head, "I will always listen if you wish to share.”

"But?” Buck rested his head on his fist, “I do hear a but there."

"But I do not care what happens to a man I have not met and most likely will not meet and one who does not bring you joy," Nico said simply. "I do not require you to spend our limited in-person time together explaining your handling of your sister’s baby daddy’s ill-mannered brother."

Buck appreciated Nico's blunt honesty. And he valued their in-person time as much as Buck did. He instinctively wanted to play down Albert’s behavior and tamped down on the instinct when his justification was going to be that Albert is YOUNG. His age didn’t excuse him for behaving like a terrible house guest. And during a pandemic no less. 

"The Marie Kondo speak shouldn't be this sexy, Nico,” Buck insisted.

Nico smirked at him, “I am confident I can spark a fair amount of joy and fire in you, Evan."

Buck smiled, "Yeah. You can. And do.”

A soft ping sounded. Nico tapped the table, "Time for me to settle back at my desk. You are welcome to stay as long as you wish.”

Buck settled back with another slice of sourdough and his mug of tea, "Thanks." He tilted his head toward the plates, "I'll stack them in the dishwasher before I leave?"

"That would be acceptable, thank you." Nico stood up and reached out, slowly dragging his finger tip in a very deliberate manner from Buck’s ear down his jaw to his chin which he gently tapped.

As Nico walked off with his coffee mug Buck watched him go with a fond smile on his face and his heart full withunspoken feelings.
 

—

When he went home from Nico’s Albert wasn’t around. Buck sighed and decided to let it go for now. He groaned when he recalled Nico’s suggestion to change his sheets and clean the space since Albert had had someone over. Great , he thought as he put his hands on his hips and surveyed his loft. Even if Albert had been around, he wouldn’t have trusted him if he had said he had not done anything untoward in his loft. He had had a person over without Buck’s permission. As far as he was concerned, that was untoward enough.

He stretched his arms above his head as he mentally made a cleaning plan. He decided to start by wiping all the loft’s surfaces down for his own peace of mind.

When Albert texted at 8pm to tell Buck he would be home late Buck just rolled his eyes and reminded Albert to be quiet coming in. Not that it mattered. Buck had not adapted to someone being in his space in this manner and woke up when he heard the door click shut. Turning over in bed he settled back down and was promptly woken up by Albert’s phone ringing.

Yeah, he has to go, Buck thought to himself.

—

The next morning Buck glanced at Albert who was fast asleep on the air mattress and decided to text him later about moving out. However, once he actually pulled out his phone to text him he talked himself out of it by saying it was a conversation better had in person. He called himself a coward for his hatred of confrontation and love of overthinking situations. There was not going to be a confrontation. Albert didn’t need to make being asked to move out into one.

He narrowed his eyes at Chimney who was sitting on the couch with Hen. He had not asked Albert to move in nor had heoffered for Albert to move in. Chimney had in a strange combination of begging and demanding, convinced him to let Albert come stay for some time so that Chimney and Maddie could enjoy this time alone. He was the idiot for not asking how long was ‘some time.’ 

He huffed and grabbed his phone, fingers flying across the keys.

[Sent 15:06] Distract me?

[Sent 15:07] Cinnamon butter goat cheese ravioli. Thoughts?

Buck sighed in relief and smiled at his phone. Nico always came through.

[Sent 15:07] Like brown butter? I can see it.

[Sent 15:08] Exactly. Now we elevate it with candied nuts, walnuts or almonds or both

[Sent 15:08] That sounds delicious!
[Sent 15:08] I’m sold!

[15:08] Lovely. You will tell me which day to make the ravioli

[15:09] <smiley face emoji> You spoil me so much

[15:09] I indulge you a reasonable amount

[15:09] Thank you <hug emoji>
[15:09] I’m good with a meal any day this week.

[Sent 15:10] I shall make it for the weekend. I leave the meal choice to you

[Sent 15:10] Lunch? We can spend the day together if you’re free?

[Sent 15:11] I am free and that is acceptable <smiley face emoji>

[Sent 15:11] <smiley face emoji> Thanks Nico. For always being my much wanted distraction.

[Sent 15:12] I am happy to forever be your much wanted distraction Evan

When the call rang out for them to suit up Buck smiled at his phone and stood up. His head was back where it should be and he was ready to work.

—

Buck trudged down his hallway. Coming home unexpectedly thanks to a blow to the head had not been something he expected but it was what it was. He slowed down as he approached his door and stared longingly at Nico’s door. He wanted Nico’s touch, his hug, his gentle fingers on his face. He closed his eyes and stood there, wrapping his arms around himself. He wanted Nico to take care of him and make him feel better. To soothe the damn throbbing in his head. He sighed and shook his head, at 11 pm it was far too late to disturb Nico. Even if he was sure the man would not mind being disturbed by him one bit.

He unlocked his apartment and went inside, frowning immediately at how dim the space was. He gently shut the door in case Albert was already asleep and took his shoes off, lining them up neatly on the side. As he moved in he slowed down when he saw the glow from the TV and heard the soft sounds. Maybe he would have the time to go talk with Albert now then. But first, he wanted to get into some comfortable clothes. 

He went up a step and then stopped, staring at the fabric draped across his railing. His eyes took it in but his brain wasn’t processing what he was seeing. A bra, that’s a bra, his mind told him sternly. Taking a step to the side, he turned on the lights and moved to lean against the dining table as he watched Albert jump off the couch. He averted his eyes as a topless woman came into view. 

“Buck! Man, what are you doing here?”

Buck winced as Albert’s loud tone felt like an ice pick piercing his head. “I live here,” he said softly, his eyes fixed firmly out the balcony doors. 

“Yeah, no,” Albert laughed awkwardly. “I meant home now.”

“I live here,” Buck repeated. He saw no need to explain his medical situation when there was a stranger around.

“Uh, this is Veronica. Veronica, this is Buck, my roommate.”

Buck felt his eyebrows go up at the introduction. Since when was Albert his roommate? There was no room to have a roommate! 

He clenched his jaw and turned his head to nod politely at the woman who had thankfully gotten dressed.

“Hi Buck,” Veronica said with a friendly smile. She glanced at Albert, “Um, let’s just go to mine?”

“Uh, yeah. Yeah, let’s do that!” Albert agreed quickly. He smiled at Buck, “See you later, dude.”

Buck nodded and kept silent until they had left. He glanced at the couch and shook his head as Nico’s words about cleaning floated through his mind. At least he’d caught them on the couch and not in his bed. 

He sighed and made his way up the stairs. It was time to sleep. He needed the throbbing in his head to stop. He could figure out the rest later.

—

The next morning Buck ignored the mild throbbing in his head and began cleaning the entire loft. He went downstairs and surveyed the bathroom. He decided to leave it as Albert was the only one using it and just deep-clean it once he was gone.He shoved aside the thought that Albert’s guest may have also used the bathroom. My uninvited guest feels comfortable inviting guests over, he thought hysterically. How awesome a host am I! He shoved aside the touch of hysteria and got to work on the loft. 

He had wiped down the surfaces - kitchen counters, tables, chairs then moved on to clearing out the sink of dishes Albert had left built up. He opened the dishwasher to stack them in and stared at the clean dishes just sitting in there that Albert had not bothered to empty. He thought of the most zen human he knew - Nico - and imagined him standing behind him, hands on Buck’s hips, whispering Breathe into his ear. He squeezed his eyes shut, savored the pleasure that brought him, and got to work. 

He wasn’t loud about the dishes. He wished he could be, just bang things about to express his displeasure and wake Albert up, but he was not on board with such a level of assholery. And he did not want to make his head worse. He had emptied the dishwasher, stacked it again, set it to run, and was putting the clean dishes away when he heard movement behind him.

“Morning, Buck. Ah, I was gonna do the dishwasher but I wasn’t sure where things go.”

Buck stared down at the mugs and rolled his eyes. He grabbed them and used deliberate movements to open the cupboard wide open to display the cups and glasses as he put them away. 

He shut the door and turned to look at Albert, “So just emptying it and leaving it neatly on the counter and stacking the next lot wasn’t a workable plan to you?” he asked blandly.

Albert smiled sheepishly and rubbed the back of his head. He looked around, “Um, what’re you doing?”

“Cleaning,” Buck said, making sure his tone remained polite and bland. 

“The place looks clean to me,” Albert said with an awkward laugh.

“Yeah, well, one, Covid is still a thing and two, you had someone I don’t know in here. I’d rather just clean the space up,” Buck said flatly. 

“Um, yeah, about that,” Albert began.

Buck looked at him expectantly and waited to hear whatever explanation Albert came up with. When he just continued to stand there portraying his discomfort and awkwardness Buck decided he was done waiting. Albert could talk when he was ready.

He grabbed his vacuum cleaner and proceeded to vacuum the entire loft while Albert wandered off to the bathroom. He was mopping the floor by the time Albert came back out. He was glad to see the man had some common sense and didn’t walk all over the wet floor. He wasn’t sure what he would have done if Albert had dared pull that stunt.

He squeezed his eyes shut against the throbbing in his head that had quickly built up from mild to intense as he had been moving around. He told himself it was fine. Hen had said no intense activities and cleaning his loft was hardly an intense activity. 

He put his cleaning supplies away and then glanced at Albert who was lounging on the couch on his phone. Buck hadn’t cleaned that area and had no intention of stepping in there until Albert was no longer a guest in his space. He was not cleaning and maintaining that space for him. He winced at the loud sounds that suddenly poured out of Albert’s phone. He was done.

He tugged his phone out of his pocket and typed out a quick message.

[Sent 09:59] Hey, can I come hide in your zen space for a few hours? I need a quiet space.

He made his way upstairs and into the shower. He was getting dressed after his shower when his phone pinged with Nico’s message tone.

[Sent 10:09] You are most welcome to it Evan. Use your key

Buck smiled and shoved his phone and keys in his pocket before making his way down the stairs. He put his flip-flops on and headed out. He knocked twice on Nico’s door and waited a moment before unlocking it and going inside. He took his flip flops off and took a deep breath, closing his eyes as his senses gently filled with the scent of what immediately told him he was in Nico’s space - a little sweet, spicy, musky scent wrapped in a strong woody vibe. He knew after a short while he’d smell more of the notes and the scent would turn even more pleasing with added notes of soft, creamy, and smooth. It had taken him some time to understand how the scent teased through his senses. He took another deep breath, pleased when it smelled right. It had been disconcerting to smell nothing when he had had Covid. 

He smiled and took two steps toward Nico’s home office, then paused when he heard Nico’s voice. He nodded when it sounded like his friend-crush-lust-love was having an animated conversation with someone in Italian and turned to head up to his loft space where Nico had created his Zen space.

Buck lay down on his back on the floor bed and allowed himself to relax. There was no one in his space here, it was quiet and his head appreciated the lack of movement. He focused on his breathing and allowed himself to drift off into a much-needed nap.

—

When Buck woke up, he spent a long moment just floating in the embrace of the peace he felt. It was quiet, the space was shadowed and he was comfortable. He ran his hand down his chest, opening his eyes when he realized he was covered in the soft quilt that had sat on the foot of the bed. Nico . He smiled and rubbed his hand over the quilt. 

After some time he grabbed his phone from the floor where he’d set it down and ran a cursory eye over his messages. He replied to Bobby and Eddie checking in about his injury and rolled his eyes at the lack of a message from Chimney or Albert. Why would Chimney tell his brother that Buck had been injured? Why would Chimney himself care to check in on him? After all, he was just a means to an end. Chimney cared because Maddie cared but only to an extent. He rolled his eyes again just because he could do so now that his head wasn’t throbbing. 

He was over both the Han brothers and wanted his space back. He glanced at the time - 15:34 and blinked. He’d slept for over five hours. For now, he wanted his Nico fix.

Sitting up, he waited a moment to ensure his head wouldn’t start pounding again. When his head felt fine, he stood up and neatly folded the quilt setting it down on the end of the bed. Grabbing his phone he went downstairs and looked around for Nico, finding him standing at the stove doing something. He made his way to the bathroom. Splashing his face with water, he grabbed the beige hand towel that he knew was meant for guests and wiped his face dry. Looking at himself in the mirror he nodded. He looked better than he had last night and today after his shower. 

Making his way outside he slowly approached Nico. He told himself it was okay, things were safer now, and he was tested regularly. He was safe. Safe for Nico.

“Hi,” he said softly.

Nico looked over his shoulder, “Ciao, Evan. Did you have a good rest?”

Buck inhaled at the sizzle he heard, the smell of spices enveloping him. “I did. Thanks.” His eyes locked on Nico’s face, “Thanks for sharing your space with me.”

Nico turned and leaned on the counter, “You are always welcome in my space.”

Buck clenched his hands. It would be so easy to take four steps forward and touch Nico, to settle in his space. As he watched, Nico’s body language became even more welcoming, a small genuine smile on his face, his arms spread on the counter behind him, and his feet crossed casually in front of the other.

“Nico,” he pleaded softly.

Nico tilted his head slightly, “Evan.” 

They stood staring at each other. Buck tried hard and failed not to think that the air between them was crackling. He had just decided to move forward when a loud crackle from the pan had Nico breaking eye contact and looking to the right.Buck closed his eyes, calling himself an idiot in every language he knew it in - idiot, estúpido, idiota, bevakoof - and sighed. 

“You’re eating with me.”

Buck stared at Nico’s back, “I am?” he asked with a smile.

“You are.” Nico looked over his shoulder and smiled at Buck.

Buck smiled, “What are you feeding me?”

Nico turned back to the pan, “Broccoli steak.”

“Broccoli? Is this the recipe we were looking at?” Buck asked curiously. They had been sending recipes back and forth and one of them had been for a vegetable steak. But that had been cauliflower.

“Yes. The cauliflower recipe. But I thought to go with broccoli as I am well familiar with Evan’s current relationship with cauliflower. I was not sure if the cauli hatred was universal to both the Evans in my life.”

Buck felt his face flush. “I uh don’t hate it.”

Nico laughed, “But you do not enjoy it, the white bland trees,” he stated.

Buck answered anyway, “No, I don’t. Honestly, how did you know though?”

“You make this face when you so much as smell cauliflower in my fridge.”

Buck blinked rapidly, “What face?” he asked, taking two steps forward.

Nico turned around, Buck close enough that their chests touched lightly. He raised his hand and gently tapped Buck’s nose, “You wrinkle your nose in the cutest fashion,” he said solemnly.

Buck’s mouth dropped open, “I do not!” he protested.

“You do,” Nico assured him. “It is quite ridiculous. And adorable.”

Buck was torn between protesting and reveling in Nico finding him adorable. “Nico,” he nearly whined.

Nico smiled and tapped Buck’s nose again then trailed his finger down Buck’s face, pressing against his lower lip, slowly tugging to pull on his lip. He raised an eyebrow and turned around putting the food together. Buck flicked his tongue along his lower lip, sure that he could taste Nico on his lip.

“You’re terrible,” Buck muttered.

“I know,” Nico said easily. “You wish you did not enjoy it?”

Buck pressed his hand against Nico’s back, “Nope. I enjoy every bit of you.” 

“Good. I am worth it.”

Buck smiled widely, “You are.”

Nico turned with two plates in hand and looked at Buck, “Where would you like to eat?”

“The table,” Buck said immediately. Sitting beside Nico at the wall seating was what he wanted.

He followed Nico to the table and slid in onto the bench next to him. “Wow.” He took in the plate Nico had set in front of him. Roasted broccoli lay on a bed of what looked like hummus with dollops of sauce.

“Roasted broccoli with red pepper hummus topped with chimichurri,” Nico said as he moved his plate back and forth taking it in. 

“This looks and smells amazing. Are you going to make Evan eat cauliflower?" Buck asked as they both continued to reposition their plates and take pictures. 

Posting pictures of the awesome meals they ate together had been their thing throughout this year. Buck's followers on Instagram had shot up, a large number coming in just for the food porn he posted. They tagged each other over the food but Buck was the one who had gained followers as his account was public while Nico's was private.

Privately Buck was grateful it was private cause he couldn't imagine how crazy it would be if Nico opened his Instagram up with the kind of stories and images he posted. He glanced at Nico and tried hard not to think about the number of posts he had on there just casually lounging in his underwear or variations of half to mostly undressed.

I do not make him eat anything. Either of my Evans," Nico said flatly.

Buck turned and raised his eyebrows at Nico. "You totally hide cauliflower in the foods you feed me!" He accused.

Nico raised an eyebrow, "You started it by hiding beetroot in the burger you got me when we had known each other barely a week, in hopes I would be ok with it hidden."

"And I was right," Buck declared.

Nico inclined his head, "And I was right about cauliflower."

Buck huffed, "True. But Evan doesn't like cauliflower."

Nico closed his eyes and looked upward, his lips moving silently before he opened his eyes and looked at Buck. "It is painful to me, genuinely painful how delightful I find you referring to Evan. It reminds me of that child spending several weeks with me speaking of Evan and me thinking he is referring to himself in the third person." He groaned and dragged his hand down his face, "And then he spent some time recently speaking of himself in third person.”

Buck laughed, "My godson is a delight!" he declared. 

"He is a shining star," Nico agreed. "And he should not make bets with me. But he does. And Jason requested if I could work cauliflower into my wins."

Buck's jaw dropped open. "J asked you to do that?" he demanded.

"Sì. He wants to make sure the cauli aversion is genuine and not just a," he flicked his fingers toward Buck, "borrowed dislike from you."

Buck pouted briefly, "I would never want to be a bad influence on him."

Nico tapped Buck's chin, "You are an influence. That is what humans do when we like another human. We allow ourselves to be influenced."

"Oh yeah? What did you influence him into? He adores you,” Buck asked curiously.

"Last summer he went through an aversion for clothing and love of salads thanks to me," Nico said easily. 

Buck blinked rapidly. "Yeah I'm gonna need more details."

Nico laughed, "Last summer he came to my family home for a visit and I happened to be there. He would go swimming with me, and spend most of the day with me. If I stripped my shirt off he would follow and we would spend the day out with the sun warming us. He would eat what I ate and what I enjoy eating at home in the summers are fresh salads so he ate the same. I would drink Aperol Spritz so he would want the same which we made him without the alcohol. Tristan said it carried on when they returned home."

Buck sighed fondly. That sounded incredibly cute. And now the pictures Tristan had sent him of Evan lounging artfully by the pool made more sense. He had been imitating Nico. 

"I want to smush," Buck declared.

Nico sighed as if put upon and leaned forward. 

Buck grinned and gently cupped Nico's face, pressing his cheeks, "Smush," he whispered.

Their eyes were locked together and they were close, so close. Buck just needed to lean forward and they would be kissing. It would be so easy. He swallowed and wet his lower lip, ready to lean forward when his phone began buzzing startling him. 

"Someone had rotten timing," he muttered.

"Atrocious timing," Nico agreed with a sigh. 

Buck gently dragged his hands down Nico's cheeks and let go. He turned his phone over and frowned when he saw Maddie calling. He showed Nico the screen then accepted the call and held the phone to his ear.

“Hey, Maddie.” 

Things between them were frosty. At least according to him. Maddie seemed to be pretending that all was okay.

“Hey. Where are you?”

His eyebrows went up at her question. He picked up the fork and cut into his broccoli nodding at Nico and mouthing, ‘perfect’ at him. “At a friend’s. Why?” 

He scooped up a piece with a portion of the hummus and chimichurri sauce and ate it. He closed his eyes and pressed his lips together to swallow back a moan of pleasure. It tasted so good!

“Oh we invited Albert and you over for dinner but he said you weren’t home.”

He looked at Nico who was drizzling chili oil on his plate, because of course he was, and shook his head. 

“Well, I’m actually just eating an early dinner with a friend. Thanks.” 

When Nico playfully offered him the chili oil he pulled his plate back and narrowed his eyes at him.

“ Oh. Well, it’s still early. Why don’t you come over with Albert around six and we can eat together? You’ll be ready for another meal by then.”

He smiled when Nico took his first bite, his eyes fluttering shut in pleasure. There was his foodie all cute.

“I already have plans,” he said carefully. It would be easy, too easy to be curt with his sister. As angry-upset-irritated-disappointed-fed up as he was with his sister, he wanted to work through his feelings with his therapist and not just unleash his feelings on her.

“Oh.”

He decided he did not want to do this. Not now. Now while eating. And not now during the limited time he got to have Nico’s company in person.

“I’m eating dinner so I guess I’ll talk to you later. Bye Maddie.”

“Oh okay. Bye, Evan.”

Buck's stomach tightened on hearing her call him Evan. While he didn’t hate his name, he preferred she refer to him as Buck. He had no interest in hearing the wealth of disappointment his family could infuse into his name. But that was a boundary battle for another day. 

He set his phone down and pointed his fork at the plate, “This, is excellent! Evan would love it.”

Nico smiled, “I shall share the recipe with Tristan.”

Buck smiled and gently pressed his foot against Nico’s, “Thanks. For always feeding me, for keeping me company whenever I need it, for bartering for bread for us, for letting me use your Zen space, for covering me with your nonna’s quilt, for being my normal this year.”

Buck’s breath caught when Nico gently rubbed his toe against Buck’s. There was something ridiculously intimate about them sitting there fully clothed but with bare feet. Bare feet that were gently brushing against each other’s. 

“You are welcome, my friend. I would return the thanks. For assisting me in moving in, for being my friend, for helping me lower my dependency on cigarettes, for hiding and holding onto them for me, for wanting me safe and keeping me so by buying my groceries for months.” Nico smiled, “For being my shining star in my world.”

Buck shook his head, finding it a lot to believe that he, Evan Buckley, was a shining star in someone’s world. Not just someone’s. Nico’s. He brightened Nico’s life. A part of him wanted to question Nico. To ask him how dare he just so casually, so effortlessly state such a thing. How did he find it so easy to say what he felt? To make Buck feel like he was worthy of a man like Nico’s attention.

A warm hand on his arm brought him out of his thoughts. “The look on your face, the sense of turmoil tells me that you need a talk with your therapist about this. But I am also willing if you would like my ear, Evan.” 

Buck shivered as Nico brushed his thumb back and forth along his skin. “I’ll talk to my therapist,” he said with a sigh. 

“Good man,” Nico said with an affectionate pat on his arm. He sat back, “I do have ice cream for dessert if you would like some. I ordered that dairy-free one that Carmen went on and on and on about.”

Buck took the opportunity and rested his hand over Nico’s, rubbing his own thumb along Nico’s skin, drawing a small smile out of the man. 

“Did you get that pecan flavor she is in love with?” Buck asked curiously. From what he had been able to tell Nico kept a rigid watch over the sugar he consumed. Dessert had to be worth it to him or he wouldn’t eat it.

Nico rolled his eyes, “No. It was described as a pie in a pint. If I want a pie I will eat the pie. Why would I have the deconstructed pie in the pint?”

“That’s all it said?” 

Nico sighed and cleared his throat, “Gooey caramel pecan pie consists of a creamy vanilla scoop with rivers of maple caramel swirl, spiced dough pieces, and pecans. It’s like a pie in a pint.”

Buck grinned hearing Nico recite the description in his blandest, flattest tone. “And what offends you so about that?”

“I would say less offend more turn off. Not just vanilla but creamy vanilla, rivers of not just caramel but maple caramel, not just dough pieces but spiced dough. It is trying very hard. One must try hard and put in one’s all for an orgasm, not toward ice cream. I want ice cream, I do not want you to sell me a fantasy. I have my Ao3 for that.”

Buck choked on his laughter, throwing his head back and laughing freely at how flat, bland, and dangerous Nico sounded the more irritated he got. Usually over food. It was such an interesting, fascinating tone. It had been a delightful discovery a few months ago and his delight over it hadn’t wavered in the months since.

“Ah, Nicodemus, you are adorable!” Buck declared. “I need to smush you again.” He reluctantly pulled his arms away from Nico and looked at him. 

When Nico sighed and leaned his face slightly forward, he grinned and gently cupped his face. Stroking his thumbs along Nico’s cheeks, he enjoyed the feel of his facial hair. The more he stroked the more relaxed Nico got. 

“Smush,” he whispered, their eyes locked together. 

“Smushed,” Nico accepted.

Their heads slowly moved closer. Nico’s hands settled lightly on Buck’s thighs. Their lips were just about to touch when Buck’s phone began buzzing.

Buck sighed and pressed his forehead against Nico’s. “I’m going to throw my phone out the window,” Buck whispered.

“Then you will have to stay here with me forever for I cannot go without contact with you,” Nico said softly. He lowered his eyes, his eyelashes brushing Buck’s cheek as he dragged his top lip along Buck’s lower lip and kissed him just under his lower lip before pulling back. 

Buck sat there frozen, confused as to why that spot felt so intimate that he was shivering. He sighed and gently dragged his hands down Nico’s face. He groaned when his phone began buzzing again. He snatched it up and glared at Albert’s name flashing on the screen. Beside him, Nico huffed and pressed his head briefly against Buck’s chest before straightening up.

“Yes, Albert?” He didn’t care that his voice was a bit curt with the man. He had brought a stranger into Buck’s apartment while he himself was an uninvited guest. And now he was ruining his romantic moment! Buck didn’t owe him anything.

“Hey, Buck! Can I borrow your car? I’m going to Howie’s for dinner.”

Buck raised his eyes upward at Albert’s casual tone. He rolled his eyes at himself when he realized it was a mannerism he had picked up from Nico. Albert had not apologized for bringing a stranger over, had not helped him clean after bringing said stranger over, and now wanted to borrow his car.

“I’m not comfortable with that,” Buck said as politely as he could. He decided against suggesting Albert take an Uber or the bus. He was uncomfortable at the idea of Albert riding around on public transportation and then being around Maddie but he also wasn’t comfortable with Albert then coming into his home. Suck it up, he thought to himself.

“But why? Howie and Maddie let me borrow their cars.”

Buck clenched his hand into a fist, reminding himself of his therapist’s words. He did not need to over-explain or even simply explain himself in order to make other people comfortable. Or make them back off. He had to just hold his line. 

“I’m not comfortable with it,” he repeated.

There was a long moment of silence before Albert spoke up. 

“Man, it’ll be expensive to Uber there and back, Buck.”

Buck squeezed his eyes shut and shook his head. No. He was not going to lend Howard Han’s brother any money. He did not want to sink any further into a relationship there. He opened his eyes and found Nico staring at him. He pointed at the phone and waved his hand. Nico raised an unimpressed brow at him and pointed his finger at him, mouthing ‘No,’ sternly enough that Buck nodded.

“That’s something you need to discuss with your brother, Albert.”

“Oh.” There was a long moment of silence. “Okay.” Another few seconds of silence. “Bye?”

“Bye,” Buck said politely and disconnected the call. 

He sagged back and stared at Nico. “I did it,” he whispered. “I didn’t over-explain myself and I held my ground.”

A slow smile spread over Nico’s face, “I am proud of you and happy for you, Evan.” He leaned in and brushed a soft kiss against Buck’s brow. “You have earned all the good things.” 

When he stood up Buck immediately stood up too and moved around the table, crowding Nico back against the wall.

“So, what have I earned exactly?” Buck asked, now more at ease with getting into Nico’s space.

“All The Good Things,” Nico repeated, amused.

Buck tilted his head at what he heard in Nico’s tone, slight though it was as he slid his hands onto Nico’s hips and squeezed gently. “Explain?”

“All The Good Things consists of creamy caramel ice cream, I gave the creamy a pass, meets ribbons of chocolate and chunks of fudge, acceptable, accented with perfect peanut butter chips. You like peanut butter so I generously overlooked them arrogantly declaring the perfection of it.” Nico pressed his hand against Buck’s heart, “You deserve all the good things.”

Buck smiled shyly, “Yeah. I’m starting to believe that.”

—

The next morning Buck heard a message pop in with Nico’s text tone while he was driving. He resisted the urge to check it during a red light and forced himself to wait until he had parked at work. It was way too easy to get carried away chatting with Nico. Not a risk he wanted to take while driving. Half of Los Angeles seemed to have forgotten how to drive after months home. As a result, the streets were filled with idiots.

He disconnected his phone from the car and opened Nico’s message.

[Sent 07:05] I found out that the person miniFret invited into your apartment is 3E

Buck blinked at the message and tried to make sense of it. 

[Sent 07:17] I’m stumped as to why he would invite 3E into my apartment to make out or more on my couch.

He put his mask on, got out of the car and grabbed his things. By the time he was walking into the 118 Nico had texted back. 

[Sent 07:19] So the lack of manners is a shared familial trait

[Sent 07:20] Lol! 
[Sent 07:20] I can’t even deny that.
[Sent 07:20] I don’t get why he had to invite her to mine though instead of going to hers.

[Sent 07:21] 3E may have a roommate situation. Please note the literal part of me is at odds with this as 3E is like your loft in that there is no bedroom for a roommate

[Sent 07:21] Smushes to your literal self!!!
[Sent 07:21] Oh! 
[Sent 07:21] That’s another thing! 
[Sent 07:21] Albert referred to me as his roommate when he introduced us.

[Sent 07:22] Are you certain that is not the case? 

Buck’s jaw dropped open behind his mask as he read Nico’s message while entering the locker room. His thumbs flew across the keys.

[Sent 07:22] MiniFret is not my roommate!

[Sent 07:23] He felt welcome to have an undressed stranger in your loft. I cannot seem to move past this. You have not had undressed strangers in your loft in 12 months

Buck dumped his bag onto the bench and sat down to continue texting. The only undressed person he had wanted in his loft was Nico. Undressed. With him.

[Sent 07:23] 18 months.

[Sent 07:23] You poor dear

[Sent 07:23] BY CHOICE!!!

[Sent 07:24] <smiley face emoji>

[Sent 07:24] <smiley face emoji> 
[Sent 07:24] I have to go now and earn my living.
[Sent 07:24] And adult up about this BS.

[Sent 07:25] <gif Star Wars - May the force be with you>

[Sent 07:25]  Be safe Evan

[Sent 07:25] Thank you <hug emoji>  

He put his phone in his pocket and put his things away. He had already come dressed for work so all he had to do was either wait until C shift cleared out or see if he could help with breakfast since he was early. He left the locker room and looked up at the loft.

“Captain Marchson! It’s Buckley! You need help with breakfast?” he called out.

A cheer of “Buck!” rang out from the loft.

“Buck! Come on up!”

He smiled when he recognized CJ’s voice and headed toward the stairs. He felt his phone buzz again and checked it, his smile widening to see a message from Nico.

[Sent 07:28] < gif - Mochi hug>

He waved at the cheer and chorus of ‘Hey Buck’ that greeted him when he walked through the loft. He waved as he walked and returned the hellos. 

“You’re smiling.”

Buck raised his eyebrows, “Why did you make smiling sound like an accusation?”

“You were smiling at your phone,” CJ said easily.

Buck observed her. Her grown-out pixie had been trimmed up from the sides and back but she had left the top to grow out and braided it back into three elaborate braids. “Who did your hair?” he asked and wriggled his eyebrows knowing she wouldn’t want to say.

CJ sighed heavily and rolled her eyes, “Fine! I won’t ask questions. Come make us loaded hash browns?”

“Loaded hash browns?” Captain Marchson looked up from his cup of coffee. “You taking advantage of Buckley, CJ?”

“Cap, he wants to be taken advantage of,” Kyle said eagerly. He held up his hands, “Okay, that sounded so wrong. I’m sorry, Buck!”

Buck waved his hand as he put an apron on. He understood what Kyle meant.

“Buck makes THE best-loaded hash browns and he has made them for A and B shift often enough that B shift has been mocking us.” CJ put her hands on her hips, “We need the hash browns.”

Marchson shook his head at them and looked at Buck, “Don’t let any of them take advantage of your cooking skills. Your shift included.”

Buck smiled behind his mask, “I won’t, Cap. Now let me feed you guys so you can all head off home.” He quickly directed CJ and Anthony to help him with the hash browns while Kyle cooked the bacon.

—

Several hours later they were settling back after a call. Buck walked over to where Hen and Chimney were stocking the truck. 

“Hey Chim, let’s work on having Albert moved out of mine in the next three days.” Buck turned and walked backward, “That’s enough time right? Let me know if you need any help,” he said in his friendliest tone. He turned back and walked up to the loft.

He had settled in at the table to watch Bobby do his daily paperwork when Chimney came charging up the stairs.

“Buck! Why do you want Albert to move out?” Chimney asked loudly causing several heads to turn toward them.

Buck swallowed and rubbed his hand on his thigh. He could do this. He just had to be golden retriever Buck and not let this descend into a confrontation.

Buck tilted his head, “You said you wanted some privacy for a few days to reconnect with Maddie. It’s been fourteen days. I need my space back,” he said politely.

“We hardly have the space, Buck. He’d be stuck on the couch,” Chimney said.

Buck blinked, “He’s on my air mattress but yeah it’s pretty much the same thing, isn’t it? I don’t even have access to my couch cause he’s set up in that area. He’s welcome to take the air mattress to yours if you don’t have one,” he offered politely.

“But it’d be three of us in a one-bedroom,” Chimney implored.

Buck rubbed the back of his neck, his other hand clenching and releasing on his thigh. “Uh,” he let out an embarrassed laugh, “Chim, Albert’s inviting strangers over to my apartment and getting it on on my couch, man. I’m not cool with walking in on that.”

Chimney let out an awkward laugh, “You know he brought some rando chick over to mine last year soon after he had moved here and they were going at it on the couch when we walked in on them?”

Buck winced in horror and was glad to see others were paying attention to the conversation. No way in hell was he allowing Chimney to talk him into or more likely whine him into keeping Albert.

Eddie joined them at the table. “That’s disrespectful,” he said as he sat down.

Buck was relieved to have the support.

“Youth, right?” Chimney said with a shrug.

“That’s disrespectful,” Eddie repeated.

Buck glanced at Eddie who nodded at him. “Yeah, that doesn’t work for me. I live in a loft and am not looking for a roommate, Chim.”

“Buck,” Chimney’s tone softened, “Maddie doesn’t need this stress. She’s pregnant.”

“What stress?” Buck asked innocently.

Chimney waved his hands, “Now that the city has opened back up Albert wants to be out doing things.”

“Doing people,” someone muttered loudly.

Chimney frowned around and focused back on Buck. “He wants to be out being twenty. I can’t have him going out and partying and then coming home to her. You remember what it was like to be that young, right?” he asked with a laugh.

“Yeah,” Buck said slowly, “I was working two jobs. We really didn’t have the same twenties. I don’t need or want a roommate.”

EMS being called out on a call helped bring the conversation to an end. Once Chimney had left the loft Buck looked at Eddie and raised his eyebrows.

“You did good,” Eddie assured him. “If he finds fault with this then he’s just looking to find fault with you.”

“I agree,” Bobby said softly. “You did just fine, kid.” He clapped Buck on the arm.

“Make sure when his brother moves out that you check your spare keys and change any codes he had,” Carter said from the couch. “You don’t want the lad sneaking back in when you’re not home to use your couch for further hook ups.”

Buck made a face, repulsed at the idea of anyone sneaking into his space to have sex. “That’s gross. I didn’t even think of it. Thanks, I’ll do that.”

Carter nodded, “What’s my wisdom for if not to be shared.”

Bobby laughed, “Too right.”

—

Buck had managed to avoid Chimney for the rest of the shift. Mainly by Eddie gluing himself to his side and both of them following Carter around. It may be cowardly but to Buck avoiding confrontation by any means was still a win.

He was at his car dumping his bag in when he heard Chimney’s voice behind him. 

“Buck, man, help me out here and let Albert stay for a couple of weeks?”

He closed his eyes and sighed, so close . He turned around and opened the car door to slide in. 

“Chim, man, your brother brought a woman over to mine. Not once, but twice that I know of. One woman he brought over lives in the building. On the same floor as me in fact yet Albert thought it better to invite her over to undress on my couch. I don’t need the disrespect or stress of finding strangers in my home. He’s your brother, you deal with him.” He kept his tone gentle and polite but he knew Chimney didn’t like his words.

“I get what you mean,” Chimney said tightly. “I was furious when he brought a woman over to my apartment. But he’s young. I remember not too long ago when you were young and on my couch, man.”

Buck swallowed hard and forced the words out, “Yeah. I remember too. I was on your couch and irritated you so you threw me out and I ended up on my sister’s couch.” He sighed, “I feel for you, man. I said it before and I’m saying it again, if you and Maddie wanted to move in together why didn’t you move into Maddie’s with Albert? Her apartment was more spacious.”

Chimney waved his hand, “That’s irrelevant now.”

As had been the case for months, Howard Han did not want to discuss this which meant the topic was closed. Well, he was done indulging this bullshit. He had a relationship to pursue which was not going to happen with people messing with his Zen.

Buck shrugged and began sliding into his car. “I’m sure you guys will figure something out,” he said with a friendly smile and shut the door to end the conversation. 

—

Buck glanced at Nico’s door as he unlocked his own and decided to seek him out at a more appropriate hour. It wouldn’t be right to keep disturbing him during his work day. He walked in and went through his post-being-out-in-the-world routine of lining his shoes up by the door, wiping his bag down, and then thoroughly washing his hands.

He glanced around the bathroom and nodded. It looked like Albert had at least picked up and cleaned up after himself. He moved further into the apartment and saw Albert sitting on the couch. 

“Hey, man.” He offered Albert a friendly smile when he looked up.

“Hey bro,” Albert said awkwardly. He hurriedly stood up and came forward. “Um, Howie said you wanted me to move out? Dude, I’m sorry! I didn’t expect you to come home unexpectedly or I wouldn’t have had Veronica over.”

Buck frowned, “Albert,” he said patiently, “you shouldn’t have had anyone over here without asking me.”

Albert crossed his arms over his chest, “Why?”

Buck blinked, “Why? Cause you’re a guest and guests don’t have the liberty to just invite people over and fornicate on people’s couches or more.”

Albert lowered his arms. “Fornicate?” he asked confused.

“Fuck,” Buck said bluntly. 

Albert had the grace to look embarrassed. “Dude, you can’t put such restrictions on your roommate. That’s weird.”

It was Buck’s turn to be confused. “Roommate?”

“Yeah. I mean yeah you aren’t taking rent from me but that’s your choice,” Albert said with a frown.

“Rent?” Buck couldn’t process what he was hearing.

“I offered and you refused,” Albert reminded him.

Buck blinked rapidly and shook his head. “Hold up,” he held up his hand. “What do you mean roommate? Howard asked me to put you up as a guest for a few days so he and Maddie could have some time together.”

Albert stared at Buck, his face a picture of surprise. “He told me I was moving in with you.”

Buck swallowed back every unkind thought that wanted to spew out of his mouth about Howard Han and his lying liar ways. 

“Obviously there’s been some misunderstanding,” he said as kindly as he could. “I had people stay with me when they needed to this year but I was not and never have been in the market for a roommate since I moved in here.” He spread his arms, “What room anyway? There’s no privacy to be had. And charging someone rent to stay on an air mattress and have zero privacy would be an assholish move. And I am not an asshole.” He took a deep breath, “Look, Albert, if you ever need a break from Howard and Maddie and just need a day or night away, you’re welcome to come crash here.” He stared him down, “What you’re not welcome to do is have people, hookups, friends, whatever, over here,” he said sternly.

Albert winced and fidgeted awkwardly. “Man, I’m sorry. That was a dumb thing to do.”

Buck decided to go ahead and ask the question he had been curious about. “Why did you invite that Veronica girl over here instead of going over to hers?”

Albert shrugged, “It was her idea. We matched on an app and were surprised that not only were we in the same building but also the same floor.”

Buck figured they had matched on Tinder but didn’t ask. It was none of his business. He just nodded.

“I’ll pack my things,” Albert said softly. “I uh can be out of here today.”

Buck sighed heavily as he looked at the sad picture Albert made. He remembered looking this young, this vulnerable, and like he didn’t belong anywhere. His mind flashed to his sister giving him the keys to her Jeep, the keys to freedom, to adventures, to growth. Pass on the kindness, he thought to himself.

“Look, you don’t have to rush off,” Buck said gently. “I told Howard three days. Why don’t we take today to go out and do stuff? Have you been hiking?”

Albert slowly brightened up, “I haven’t been hiking. I’d like to try that.”

Buck nodded, “Okay, then. Let’s go hiking.” He smiled, “Let me show you LA. The LA that’s more than bars and clubs.” He gave Albert a look, “Which you shouldn’t even be in considering your age.” 

“Um,” Albert fidgeted.

Buck laughed, “Relax. I remember what it was like to be twenty and flying high on being wild and free too.” He nodded, “Come on, go get changed. Let’s go hiking and grab some food. I have the next three off, we can work on getting the air mattress moved to your brother’s so you aren’t sleeping on the couch.”

Albert groaned, “My back and I will love you forever for it. I can’t believe I’ve spent months on that couch already.”

—

After several hours spent hiking around Griffith Park, they had moved to <area> and settled down with cheeseburgers and fries from a food truck. Buck was appalled that Chimney had not introduced Albert to food trucks in the time he had been there pre-pandemic.

“Where were you living before anyway?” Buck asked curiously as they ate.

“I’d found an apartment to rent with three others. My father was going to pay the rent. But Howie insisted with the pandemic that I stay with him so Maddie wasn’t alone.”

Buck shook his head and sighed. “Okay, and what’s your plan now?”

Albert shrugged and dipped his fry in mayo, “I don’t really know.” He sighed, “And yeah I get that that’s bad, lack of ambition and all that. I don’t need a lecture please,” he snapped then looked guilty.

“Dude, I’ve been where you are. I didn’t know what I wanted to do. What I did know was college at the time wasn’t for me. Maddie gave me the opportunity to flit around and find out what I may want to do. She gave me the means to go exploring.” When Albert straightened up and leaned forward displaying his interest Buck nodded and continued speaking. “I drove around, found jobs, and tried different things out.” He gentled his tone, “I don’t mean to be mean with this, Albert, but you gotta do something right? The pandemic has extended your holiday so either you go back or stay on and plan your life.”

“I thought I’d get a job,” Albert said eagerly. “Maddie was talking to me about the work she did at dispatch and I liked the idea of helping people.”

Buck shook his head, “I’m pretty sure you can’t work here on a tourist visa.”

“I’m on a student visa.”

Buck blinked and set his burger down. “A student visa?” he asked, surprised.

“Uh, yeah. I wanted to stay on and a tourist visa only allowed me to stay ninety days. So my dad’s lawyer suggested I apply to a university here and they got the visa converted for me,” Albert explained.

“Where do you study?” Buck wondered why this was the first he was hearing of this. Then figured it didn’t concern him so why would Maddie have mentioned it to him?

“Uh, Los Angeles Pacific University. I’m getting a BBA. Um, Bachelor of Business Administration,” Albert said hesitantly.

Buck blinked rapidly. “Dude.” He sat back and sighed heavily, “Dude. Why did you think moving in with me was a good idea when you’re in university? You don’t want to live in a dorm or with other people your age?”

Albert shrugged and fiddled with a French fry, “I figured living with you would be better than living with Howie and Maddie. No offense, I didn’t mind staying with Maddie and being helpful all these months but it’s been a lot for me too.”

Buck nodded, “I’m sure it has been. You’ve kept Maddie safe while also having to deal with the pandemic yourself.” He hesitated then continued, “And Howard fretting on top of it all.”

Albert groaned and thumped his elbows on the table, “DUDE, the fretting!” He huffed, “I am so tired of all of his fretting!”

Buck laughed tiredly and forced himself not to rub his face. This no-touching thing had gotten so old . “Okay, so look, I can’t have you living with me. So short term yeah you’ll have to move back in with your brother. Long term why don’t you start looking for a place? I’m happy to help you look. Your dad’s willing to pay the rent so you’re good there. Look for a place close to uni so you don’t have a crazy time commuting and then build your life in that area. You need a break, you wanna come this side and hang out, you’re welcome to come to mine.”

Albert smiled, “You mean it, Buck?” He frowned, “Howie won’t like that. All these months he’s been telling me he’s counting on me to help Maddie.”

Buck hoped his utter irritation over Howard Han and his manipulative ways wasn’t shining through his very being. “Albert, man, he’s with Maddie now and sent you off to me. So clearly he doesn’t need that level of help from you anymore. Time to live for yourself now.” He smiled encouragingly, “Let’s start looking to get you into a place of your own. And when you find one, I’ll help you move in, stock your place up, and all that good stuff.”

“I’d love that! Howie won’t feel bad we aren’t asking him for help?”

Buck wanted to pat Albert’s head, the kid was so naive. “Your brother has enough on his plate with a baby on the way, right? Let’s leave him to handle his life and I’m happy to help you with yours. And when you’re all moved in and set up you can invite them over for a meal or something.”

Albert smiled widely, “I like that idea. Let’s do it!” He held out his elbow.

Buck laughed and tapped his elbow against Albert’s since fist bumps were a no. He was relieved this had worked out as decently as it had without alienating Albert. 

And finally, hopefully, he could begin working toward a relationship with Nico that extended beyond tiny in-person moments together.

Chapter Text

Buck parked his car and took in the U-haul parked in the spot beside his. He raised his eyebrows when he saw a man he assumed to be the driver, a well-dressed one at that in black pants and a black polo sitting in the back beside several suitcases scrolling on his phone. Who was moving with suitcases? Seeing that the U-haul was parked in 3C’s slot, he guessed his neighbor whose apartment had been under minor renovations was finally moving in.

He headed upstairs, taking the stairs as usual, and walked down the hallway, stopping beside 3C’s open door. He knocked on the door while standing outside. “Hello?” he called out his eyes roving around the sun-drenched loft, noting how the sun shone and reflected off the glass-paneled spaces.

“Hello.”

Buck swallowed at the deep voice, his eyes widening in surprise when a vision of a man sauntered toward him. Long legs encased in fitted black jeans with a silky dark green shirt tucked into it. His shirt was unbuttoned enough to show off a dusting of dark chest hair. A sharp jaw covered in stubble, plump pink lips, and eyes that he noticed as beautifully hazel as the man came to stand in front of him. And really, was that what he was wearing to move and unpack in? Buck felt a tad underdressed in his blue chinos and white t-shirt.

“Uh, hi,” he croaked out, then winced and cleared his dry throat. Who knew instant lust caused one's throat to go dry?

“Hi,” the man parroted him, an amused note coming through his voice. “Would you like some water?”

“Uh, no. Thanks. I live just here,” Buck indicated his apartment door. “I’m Evan Buckley, your neighbor in 3B.”

The man held out his hand, “Hello, Evan Buckley of 3B. I am Nicodemus Rossi. You may call me Nico if you wish to.”

Buck smiled and clasped the man’s, Nicodemus Rossi’s hand, shaking it. “It’s nice to meet you, Nico.”

Nico stared at him, “Is it nice?”

“It is,” Buck said firmly. “It’s always nice to meet people. And we’re neighbors, it’d be nice to be friendly and get along.”

Those lips quirked in an amused smile that transformed Nico’s face from gorgeously stern to beautifully warm. “Ah, how fortunate am I to gain a optimist for a neighbor.” He squeezed Buck’s hand and released it. “I apologize if the noise of the interior work has been a hindrance," he paused and shook his head, "a disturbance to your day. I was assured that the work was done within the hours allotted and care was taken not to disturb the neighbors and residents around.”

Buck shook his head, “It’s been fine. The work was quiet after the first few days.” He glanced over Nico’s shoulder, “Your loft is huge. I didn’t get a chance to check out the corner larger ones when I was looking at the lofts here.”

“It is good to know I did not hire liars.” Nico waved his hand, “It is a two-bedroom down here in addition to the loft space. Feel free to stay and look around. I must go back down to retrieve more of my belongings.”

Buck found it sweet that the man trusted so easily. He decided he was going to be a good neighbor to him. “Do you need any help?”

Nico’s eyes slowly assessed him all the way from his feet up his thighs, his torso to his shoulders before he nodded. Buck felt very seen.

“You look like you could handle suitcases.” He inclined his head, “If you are free I would not mind the aid.”

“I’m free,” Buck confirmed. 

Nico waved his hand toward the hallway, “Then please do assist me, Evan Buckley of 3B.”

Buck smiled as they got into the stairwell and walked down. “Um, should you be so trusting to have invited me to roam around your loft alone?”

Nico looked at him, “Is that a hint that I should not trust you?”

“No!” Buck said immediately. He took in the way the man’s lips quirked in a tiny approximation of a smile and shook his head with a laugh. “I wouldn’t want you to come back to your things missing. This is a good building but one never knows human nature and what someone is capable of.”

Nico nodded, “That is true. I would care if I did not have a camera aimed at my door and if my home contained anything more than furniture, apples, and suitcases containing clothing and linen.”

Buck blinked, “Apples?”

“Apples,” Nico confirmed as they walked outside. “I like apples.”

Buck smiled, “Noted, neighbor. I make an interesting apple grilled cheese.”

Nico paused at the truck and turned to give Buck his full attention. He tilted his head, “Apple grilled cheese?” he asked curiously.

“I’ll make it for you one day soon,” Buck promised.

Buck would swear the man’s eyes twinkled. “I look forward to it.”

“Still don’t want me to help you, Mr. Rossi?” the driver asked.

Nico nodded at him, “I am certain, Paul, grazie. This is Evan Buckley, my neighbor. He wished to help and I have accepted.”

Paul smiled, “You made a friend, that’s great.” He nodded at Buck, “Hi Evan.”

Buck smiled, a bit confused at the interplay. “Hi, Paul.” 

“The silvers are heavy but durable, the black are heavy and delicate,” Nico pointed out the five suitcases in the U-haul. “The small silver suitcases are books. Heavy and necessary.”

“The red are kitchen,” Paul added. 

“Kitchen?” Buck asked curiously as he took in the two small red suitcases.

“Spices and such. Pantry items,” Paul said.

“Ah, nice.” Buck wondered why Nico’s belongings were packed in suitcases and not boxes and decided he’d ask since the man seemed friendly. First, he was ready to get the next lot going.

Paul passed them the three silver suitcases and Buck and Nico efficiently lifted them down. 

“You’re okay with both?” Buck asked as Nico maneuvered them toward the door.

“Yes,” Nico confirmed.

“Okay, then wait, let me take another. Paul, can you slide the red one?” Buck asked.

Paul looked at Nico and at his nod, he shifted the red suitcase forward. “Certainly.”

Buck grabbed it and nodded at Nico, “Let’s go.”

They scanned their IDs and went in, smoothly walking with the suitcases toward the elevator.

“How come you’re moving with suitcases rather than boxes, if you don’t mind me asking,” Buck asked as they got into the elevator.

“Because I had access to the suitcases. It seemed unnecessary to purchase boxes. If I fell short I could always reuse the suitcases,” Nico said simply.

Buck nodded, “That’s a super idea, actually. I’m going to keep it in mind if I ever have to move again,” he said as they exited the elevator and moved toward their apartments.

“The luggage is also low effort to move around. Boxes require more effort.”

“You’re right. And there’s a risk of dropping a box or it moving around in the truck.” Buck gently knocked on the hard-top suitcase, “No risk with these.”

“Of course, I will admit I had access to the suitcases which is why I utilized this option over the boxes. I am pleased to not be lifting boxes,” Nico said as he neatly stacked the suitcases next to the two others already there. “Just here is fine, Evan.”

Buck lined his suitcases up where Nico indicated and looked at Nico. “Right, next round?”

“Next round,” Nico confirmed.

They moved toward the stairs. 

“Tell me something about you?” Nico asked as they walked down.

“I’m six foot two inches,” Buck said. “Your turn.”

Nico raised an eyebrow, “I am impressed. A great majority of people, of Americans, answer that with their profession. I am six foot two and a half inches.”

“That bodes well for me because I feel like it takes a lot to impress you, Nico,” Buck said as he watched Nico walk out the door. The man’s jeans really did a lot for him. All of him.

Nico looked over his shoulder and smiled, his smile stinging in the sweetest way like ice being dragged down his spine. 

“You are already ahead of the rest of Los Angeles as far as impressions go..”

Buck bit his lip, unusually pleased, “Lucky, lucky me.”

“Paul, I would like the black ones, please.”

“Sure, but let me help you get them down,” Paul said.

“Delicate right? Don’t wanna slam them down?” Buck asked as he stood by the truck.

Nico nodded, “Precisely.”

“We’ve got it together,” Buck said as Paul brought it to the edge. He grabbed the handle and a side of it, watching Nico do the same. “On three?”

“On two?” Nico countered. “We could manage on two.”

Buck laughed, “We could.” He nodded, “One, two!” They lifted the bag down and then repeated the process with the second bag. “Let’s get just these two up and then do the smaller ones.”

“Sì. I would prefer to be careful getting these up.” Nico nodded at Paul, “We shall return unless Evan has grown tired of me.”

Buck raised his eyebrows at Nico then nodded at Paul, “We shall return.”

Buck allowed the silence to reign between them until they entered the elevator. He figured he might as well be his usual self and figure out early if Nico could handle his friendly personality or not. 

“So, tell me something else about you. One you aren’t inspired by me to tell,” Buck said with a challenging lilt to his tone.

“I do not like it when people tell me to smile.”

Buck stared at Nico who was facing him straight on. His tone had been casual but Buck felt there was a lot more to it. “You could audition for a male Wednesday Addams. I think that’s cool.” He felt like he had scored a point when Nico’s lips quirked in that little smile of his again. It was barely there and he figured maybe people missed it. But Buck could read micro-expressions well.

“I will consider dressing as such for Halloween,” Nico said smoothly as he left the elevator.

Buck smiled and followed.

“Your turn,” Nico said as he moved the suitcase into the apartment and set it neatly in a spot.

Buck realized he had placed each bag in a different spot at precise angles. He glanced at Nico to find the man watching him. He nodded and brought the black bag over to sit by the bag Nico had placed and fixed the angle. That eyebrow going slightly up told Buck that he had surprised the man.

“I have been dabbling in the stock market,” Buck said as they left the apartment.

“Yes? Are you enjoying it?” Nico asked as they started down the stairs.

“I haven’t made any major loss and doubled my initial investment,” Buck admitted with a hint of pride in his tone.

“That is wonderful for you, Evan. Well done,” Nico said flatly.

Buck glanced sharply at him, then relaxed. The man’s tone was flat but there was that little smile again. He wondered if Nico just had more of a flat countenance most of the time.

“Thank you, Nico,” he said warmly, hoping Nico realized that Buck was accepting of him as he was so far. “Your turn.”

Paul had already unloaded the four smaller silver bags. “I can bring the red and we’ll be done. If you want,” he offered carefully.

Buck glanced at Nico when the man remained silent for a long moment. He glanced at Paul who was entirely focused on Nico. He relaxed when Nico nodded after what felt like an age.

“Sì, per favore, gazie, Paul.” 

Nico caught hold of the two silver ones and Buck quickly followed leaving Paul with the red one. They were silent as they rode the elevator up and made their way into the apartment.

“You will let me know when to come pick up the bags?” Paul asked.

Buck noticed the way the man carefully lined the bag up next to the other red one. He himself followed Nico’s lead and lined the two suitcases he had next to Nico’s.

“Sì. I appreciate your assistance and patience, Paul,” Nico said seriously.

Paul nodded with a smile, “Happy to help, Si-Nico.”

Buck tilted his head at that. Had Paul been about to refer to Nico as ‘sir’? 

“It was nice to meet you, Evan,” Paul waved as he moved toward the door.

“Likewise, Paul,” Buck said with a friendly smile.

 Buck hovered, waiting for Nico to politely thank and dismiss him too and wishing he would ask him to stay.

“I have a… thing… about angles and germs.”

Buck blinked and looked up to find Nico leaning against the wall, his long legs on perfect display, arms hanging relaxed by his sides. 

Buck nodded in acknowledgment. “How does that work? The germs? Would you like me to wash my hands before touching your belongings or your space?” He kept his tone gentle.

Nico stared at him for a long moment and Buck stared right back.

“I wash my hands. Often. Thoroughly. I do not require anyone else to cater to my need,” Nico said slowly. He slowly straightened up, “I shall go wash my hands now. Then begin the joyous task of unpacking.”

“I’m free and happy to help. Or keep you company,” Buck offered.

“I would enjoy that,” Nico said softly then walked away.

Buck refused to sigh dreamily over Nico’s deep voice. He refused. He could NOT get a crush on his neighbor and lust after the man’s voice.

Buck took the opportunity to look around. Nico’s apartment was more than double the size of his breath-wise and a little longer in length. And their styles were completely different. While Buck’s was open plan and tones of white, Nico’s was warm-toned which completely transformed the space. His looked to be an open plan for the most part. The living room with its couches dominated the space, there was a cozy wall seating as the dining space and a more spacious kitchen area. When he glanced up at the loft space he found light curtains encasing the space.

"I love what you've done with the place," Buck said when Nico returned. "There's plenty of seating space. The colors are nice.” He turned to the massive television that dominated the living room wall, "This is just dreamy."

Nico inclined his head, "Thank you. With the amount of natural light, I was thrilled to introduce the beige brown tones with the white and greens."

"Is someone going to come live with you?" Buck asked. "Seeing that there are two bedrooms and the loft."

"Ah, no. My brother and sister-in-law had thought to move in here but then they found a space they would rather call home. I liked the space for myself.”

“That was convenient. And it is nice to have the space,” Buck said with a smile. "Shall we start unpacking?"

"You do not have to aid with the unpacking, Evan. You may just keep me company if you wish to,” Nico said seriously.

Buck was a bit startled and a lot pleased to already be able to tell Nico's tones apart. "I'd like to keep you company and since I am I'd also prefer to help," he said just as seriously.

Nico inclined his head, "Then let us get the delicate out of the way,” he said and led the way to the black suitcases.

Buck was eager to see what items a man like Nico would define as delicate. Nico knelt down and carefully laid the bag flat, then unzipped it. Buck leaned in and lifted the top laying it gently on its back. When Nico began unzipping the cover on his side Buck went ahead and unzipped the other. Then stared wide-eyed at the contents.

Bottles upon bottles of alcohol and bubble-wrapped little packages that he was going to assume were glasses. Bubblewrap had been stuffed between the bottles for travel.

“Wow." Buck looked at Nico, "This is quite the selection!"

Nico nodded, "Housewarming gifts from family and friends."

Buck blinked, "Forgive me, I assumed by your accent that you had recently moved to the US."

Nico's Italian accent clung to every word of English that he spoke. And he spoke as if he was weighing his words. Or mentally translating them into English.

"You are not wrong. I arrived two days ago." Nico shook his head with a little laugh, "My family is not one I would refer to as sensible about such things as delivering the gift after I settle in. It is done with much love so I accept it."

Buck grinned, charmed by this man's attitude toward his family. It spoke of love, a lot of love and care and acceptance. "That's nice of them." He looked over the selection, "Okay then, let's get this done. Where are we setting it up?"

Nico smoothly stood up and lightly pushed against a wall panel then slid the wall aside to reveal a concealed space with shelves. 

"Nice!" Buck stared at the shelves which had lit up when revealed. "How about I pass you each bottle and you put it in the order you prefer?" He offered. He had no doubt a man who organized his belongings in the areas they went into had a plan for how his alcohol and glasses would be placed. Nico's little quirking of his lips told him he was right.

"That shall work." Nico accepted the first bottle Buck handed him. "It is your turn."

Buck cocked his head to the side and decided to go with the professional conversation. "I am a Firefighter with the LAFD."

Nico turned and accepted another bottle. "How very interesting. You are the first firefighter I have met in my life in a social manner.” He used a finger to push the bottle he had placed on the shelf and adjust it. He turned around and accepted another bottle. ”Watching Bollywood films is something I have begun enjoying over the past year.” He placed the bottle and turned around.

Buck tilted his head, "Do you understand the language?"

Nico accepted another bottle. ”Not yet. But I have had enough of the subtitles, some are misleading, some are outright lies and they just do not do anything for nuance so I shall use this year to begin learning," Nico said casually.

“That’s awesome. Do you know any other languages besides English and Italian?” Buck asked curiously. He gently tapped the bubble-wrapped little packages, “Should I unwrap these?”

Nico glanced at him and nodded his head, “Yes. They are glasses stacked into each other. I speak French, Spanish, and Mandarin.”

Buck smiled, “Oh fantástico. Yo también lo hablo,” he said slowly. [Oh fantastic. I speak it too.]

Nico paused, adjusted a bottle, and turned to look at him, “Sigues siendo una sorpresa, Evan.” [You’re still a surprise, Evan.] He accepted another bottle from Buck and turned to place it.

Buck smiled back, pleased at Nico’s reaction. He looked down at the glasses and gently circled the rim of the topmost one. “Okay, these look and feel really expensive.”

“If one can, one must consume good quality liquor in good quality glass. Those glasses are my present to myself last year for accomplishing something.”

Buck carefully held them up to Nico, “That’s nice. If you can afford it, yeah, you should totally enjoy the best you can get for yourself in life.”

“I have a sister,” he said as his turn in the next something about himself bit.

“I work as a Financial Officer. Words and people do not always make sense but numbers are always a friend,” Nico said slowly.

Buck smiled, he loved the way the man spoke. Slow and methodical in that deep timber was a soothing combination.

“I left home at nineteen and went off exploring and fending for myself.”

Nico turned fully to look at him. “That is interesting. And quite,” he paused and tilted his head then lifted his hand, moving his fingers back and forth as if seeking the word.

Buck waited patiently. He was not jumping in to offer suggestions unless asked.

“Brave,” Nico finally said. He met Buck’s eyes, “It takes courage to venture out into the unknown world and to treat it as an adventure.”

Buck smiled shyly, he supposed it was brave. All he had thought at the time was getting away from his parents and the stifling relationship they shared. As bad as it was, he wished he hadn’t sought Maddie out before he left. His leaving the way he had, his postcards where he only wrote funny little tidbits for her, and his flighty, fun persona, had made it so that she just didn’t take him seriously and treated him as a damn teenager. Or worse, a child.

“You went away somewhere, Evan. Come back.” 

Buck’s eyes flew up to meet Nico’s.

“I only mention because it does not seem you went into good memories,” Nico said gently.

Buck bit his lip and nodded, “Thanks. They weren’t bad thoughts but not great ones,” he said softly.

“I have traveled the world but never alone. I have never gone offline, disconnected, and disappeared for a time.”

Buck wondered at the wistful tone Nico’s words held. “What’s holding you back from doing so?” he asked gently.

“My family. They worry,” Nico said simply.

Buck cocked his head to the side, “What if you inform them and then disappear?” He could see he had confused him if the slight narrowing of his eyes was anything to go by. Which to Buck, it was.

“Would that not defeat the purpose?” Nico asked slowly.

Buck smiled slightly and explained, “You inform them, or even a single point of contact who could pass the news on that you are choosing to disconnect for a period of time and then you do so. Even if what you choose to do is lock your doors and sit at home enjoying your space. And maybe you let them know you will check back in by a certain date.”

Nico nodded slowly, “Boundaries. Information shared and boundary created. This idea has much merit. I must think on it.” He smiled suddenly, “Thank you, Evan.”

Buck’s breath hitched at being rewarded by the full force of Nico’s smile. The man was gorgeous. “You’re welcome,” he said softly. He forced himself to look away from Nico to the bar now set up behind him. He lifted his chin to indicate the area, “It looks fantastic.”

“It does,” Nico said with a pleased little hum.

Buck glanced at him and was surprised to find Nico looking at him. He smiled at him and told the part of his feelings that had been bruised by Ali dumping him soon after his life-threatening injury to not get too excited at a gorgeous man being kinda flirty, kinda warm with him. When Nico continued to confidently maintain eye contact he decided to hell with it, he was going to enjoy every bit of the excitement this man’s attention brought him.

“I had my leg crushed under a firetruck over a year ago.”

Hazel eyes bore into his, making Buck again feel very seen and leaving him impressed that Nico hadn’t looked at his leg. 

“You have recovered,” Nico stated.

Buck nodded, even though Nico’s words sounded like a statement and not a question.

“That is amazing. It takes courage to not just go through the recovery but return to the profession you have, Evan,” Nico said softly.

Buck swallowed and wet his lips. The people around him had been so focused on keeping him away from the profession that he felt was his calling in life. People like Bobby who had allowed his own guilt to rule him, Maddie with her constant pleas of how dangerous his profession was, Hen asking him to take it easy, but none of them had realized how much of a toll it had taken on him, how hard he had worked mentally put his uniform back on. To be able to walk back into the firehouse. To get back into the truck. To feel the power of it moving under him as he sat in it and focused on his destination, on the call they were headed to rather than on all that power and weight resting on him. Crushing him. Killinghim. He blinked rapidly and nodded.

“You’re the first person who has expressed that,” he admitted softly.

Nico observed him silently for a moment then slightly arched one eyebrow, “I shall note this as another example that I human on a superior level.”

Buck laughed and shook his head, “I love your confidence, Nico.”

Nico gently inclined his head, a small smile on his lips, as their eyes met and held. Buck told himself he was imagining the energy fairly crackling between them. He wet his lips and knew there was no lying to himself about this. It had been a while since he had been with men, but this man was one he could sink right into.

He cleared his throat. “Let’s do the other delicate bag?” he asked hoarsely, then cleared his throat again.

“It will go that way,” Nico indicated the kitchen area. 

They moved the bag to the kitchen and crouched down to open it up. Buck grabbed the top of the bag from Nico and gently set it down. Opening up the cover he blinked. 

“Oil?” 

“Truffle oil.”

“And truffle salt.” Buck’s eyes flit over the contents of the bag as he began reading out loud, “Extra virgin olive oil with black truffle. Extra virgin olive oil with white truffle. Summer truffle mustard, seasoning made with dehydrated summer truffle and mushroom powder, summer truffle ketchup, truffle dust, truffle hot sauce, white truffle honey.” He lifted his head and stared at Nico, “So you love truffle.” He grinned at the flat expression on Nico’s face and laughed as that impressive eyebrow slowly went up. “Let me guess, you expressed an interest in truffle and your family decided to heap it upon you?”

“You win the truffle award. I hope you are not allergic to truffle so I may share it with you, neighbor,” Nico said dryly.

“I’ve eaten it twice and loved it. But this,” Buck waved his hand over Nico’s collection, “is something else.”

“It will be good to use it when I have some actual food ingredients in here to use it on.”

“Do you cook?” Buck asked casually as he began handing Nico the bottles to put away into his pantry.

“I do. I enjoy it. Do you?” Nico asked.

“I do. I used to survive on takeaway or steamed and grilled food. But my Captain at work began teaching me how to cook and then I got myself some cookbooks and took a few classes. I’d say I’m a decent cook,” Buck said proudly.

“That is good, Evan. Food is a love of its own. It is good to know how to love with it.”

“I’ve heard that, that food is a love language. I haven’t really experienced it though,” Buck said.

Nico accepted the last bottle from Buck and looked into his eyes, “Making love to someone by way of feeding them is a beautiful type of love. I wish for you to experience it in your lifetime. Often.”

The combination of Nico’s words, the expression on his face and his deep tone sent a jolt of pleasure down Buck’s spine making him shiver.

“Thanks,” he whispered. He wet his lips when Nico continued to look into his eyes.

“My pleasure,” Nico said softly as he straightened up.

The moment Nico turned his back on him Buck waved his hand in front of his face with the hope to cool his undoubtedly flushed face down. He dropped his hand and focused on the rest of the contents of the bag when Nico began to turn around.

“Plates!” he said brightly then winced. Who gets this excited about plates, he scolded himself.

“Plates,” Nico acknowledged with that little quirk of his lips.

Buck took in the beautiful pattern of the plates and bowls Nico had unwrapped then looked up at him. “Tell me these are all wildly expensive.”

“These are not wildly expensive and are dishwasher friendly,” Nico said firmly.

“What about microwave friendly?” Buck asked curiously as he gently rubbed his finger along the edge of a plate, then held up six plates to Nico.

“They do not need to be microwave-friendly,” Nico said as he accepted the plates and added them neatly to a shelf above the sink.

Buck looked around Nico’s kitchen and frowned. “Where’s your microwave?” he asked as he held up a stack of matching bowls to Nico.

Nico accepted the bowls, “I do not own one.”

Buck’s mouth dropped open as he watched Nico set the bowls down next to the plates. He shut his mouth with a little click. “How do you manage without it?” He held up the quarter plates to Nico.

“I have never owned one,” Nico said easily as he accepted the plates from Buck.

“Never owned one. Are you having me on, Nico?” Buck demanded.

Nico turned and rested his hand on the counter, then leaned in a manner akin to a model posing for maximum sensual effect. Buck took a mental photograph of Nico right then and there to recall fondly later. He patted himself on the back for not feeling an ounce of shame over it.

“Am I having you on… me?” Nico queried softly, a little smirk playing about his lips. “I am not opposed, Evan.”

Buck swallowed hard as his brain broke a little at that. The little twinkle he swore he could see in Nico’s eyes had him convinced the man was joking. Mostly. He decided to risk it.

“Not before a date you’re not,” he said firmly.

Nico inclined his head, “I shall keep that in mind.” He straightened up and spread his arms, “Alas, I have no food to cook to turn this into a date.”

Buck grinned, “What do you feel like eating?”

“Milk chocolate,” Nico said immediately. He lowered his voice, “It is a secret pleasure.”

“Well,” Buck smirked, “if you’re okay with us skipping straight to dessert, I will bake you milk chocolate brownies that will blow your mind and make your taste buds dance with pleasure.”

“That is the kind of self-confidence in one’s skill that delights me but I would require proof,” Nico said seriously. “Let us jump to dessert, Evan Buckley. I am ready for you to make me dance.” He held out his hand to Buck.

Buck smiled and grabbed Nico’s hand, using it to haul himself up even though he didn’t need the assistance. He was pleased when they both used the opportunity to move closer together. “Let’s dance, Nico.”

Chapter Text

[Sent 11:42] Hey Nico, how’s your day going?

[Sent 11:45] It is being a day of issues. How is your day going?

[Sent 11:45] I’m sorry your day isn’t a smooth one.

[Sent 11:45] Mine’s going ok.

[Sent 11:51] Do you maybe wanna get dinner tonight?

[Sent 11:51] Or late afternoon? Whatever time you’re eating today.

[Sent 12:03] I am sorry I was on a call. Yes dinner would be lovely. Can you come over at 1630?

[Sent 12:03] Oh I don’t mean for you to cook Nico. I was planning to grab take away.

[Sent 12:04] We can walk down or drive down together and bring something back

[Sent 12:04] Your lack of punctuation is making me wonder if you’re asking or stating.

[Sent 12:04] I am stating.

[Sent 12:05] You’re so bossy!

[Sent 12:05] Yes, I love it <smiley face emoji>

[Sent 12:05] <winking face emoji>

__

Buck smoothened his hand down his chest as he stared at himself in the mirror.

This is not a date, he thought.

When he had not managed to convince himself he decided to try again.

‘This is not a date,’ he mouthed to himself. Then, he rolled his eyes when he remembered he was home alone and didn’t actually have to censor himself.

"This," he said out loud, "is not a date." That had worked. A little bit.

He sighed and nodded. "This," he pointed at his reflection, "is not a date! You're just going to hang with your bud and take a stroll around to pick up some food. To celebrate your birthday. Because your sister bailed on you. When you didn't want to celebrate your birthday anyway! But she kept on you that we should celebrate and then fucking bailed!"

He glared at himself and ran shaking hands down his face. He was just so disappointed in Maddie right now. 

He shook his hands out and took a few steadying breaths until he felt himself begin to calm down. Nodding he continued the focused breathing. He felt better after a couple of minutes. He looked at himself in the mirror again and smiled. Figuring it was as genuine as it was going to get he turned off the bathroom light and headed outside. 

He was thrilled to be having dinner with Nico, but he was also sad at the state of his relationship with his sister. He grabbed his keys and shoved them in his pocket as he slipped into his sneakers. Picking up his face mask and phone, he paused at the vibration he felt.

Tapping the screen awake he saw a missed call from Maddie along with several messages.

"What now?" He muttered and thumbed the message thread open.

Maddie 
[Sent 16:15] I’m sorry Evan. Howie was just being overprotective about my health. 
[Sent 16:15] And I overreacted too.
[Sent 16:15] Come over. I'm making spaghetti with cut up hot dogs for you.
[Sent 16:15] Remember that? You loved it as a kid!
[Sent 16:15] I’ll see you at 6!

He blinked at the messages wondering when his sister had begun thinking that she would command him to jump and he would do so without even asking how high.

He had not made plans with anyone else today because Maddie had insisted on these plans a week ago. She had canceled on him this morning and had now decided he should just trot on over?

He looked at the time and winced. 16:36. He wrenched open the apartment door and replied to Maddie as he walked out and shut and locked the door behind him.

Buck
[Sent 16:36] Hey, I'm glad you're feeling better. 
[Sent 16:36] I made other plans so I'll see you another day.

He locked his phone and slipped it into his pocket then stood in front of Nico’s door and took a deep breath as he focused on just how much he was looking forward to spending time with Nico.

He exhaled, smiled, and knocked on the door then took a step back.

The door opened in seconds. "Evan."

Buck felt his mouth dry up at the sight of Nico in a snug royal blue polo with well-fitted faded black jeans that looked so soft and pettable. He was barefoot as he usually preferred to be when at home. He trailed his eyes back up Nico's body, his mouth filling with saliva at the sharp little points of Nico's nipples clearly outlined by his top. He swallowed hard and forced himself to stop objectifying his friend. As he met Nico's eyes he eagerly took in that handsome face and noticed that Nico's hair was curled charmingly over his forehead rather than pushed back.

"Would you like to come in?" Nico's tone was amused, his little smile playing about his mouth.

Buck licked his lips to wet them as he nodded and stepped forward as Nico stepped back.

"I assume we would maintain the distance as is the usual now?" 

Buck sighed and nodded. "Yeah, we should. It's the responsible thing to do."

"I suppose we must continue to be good," Nico said as he walked further into his apartment. He looked over his shoulder, "I miss being bad.”

Buck choked at the thought of Nico being bad. Of being bad with Nico. He shut the door and leaned back against it. Goddamn, he was thirsty. So damn thirsty for this man. He groaned and toed off his sneakers then followed Nico. On the way, he fished out his keys from his pocket and hung them on the hook beside Nico's.

"What did you have in mind for food? I know you eat around now. I wish you'd let me just bring dinner Nico," Buck said as he followed Nico and walked out onto the balcony.

He stopped short as he took in the set table, the plates, and glasses. “These are not your everyday plates,” he said slowly."We didn't even unpack these because you said you had no use for them.” 

He looked at Nico to find the man observing him with a small smile on his face. 

"I found use for them.” He took a small step to the side drawing Buck's eyes to what was sitting on the table. 

"Happy Birthday, Evan."

Buck shivered at Nico’s soft voice. He took a step closer, his eyes glued to the small white cake sitting on a cake stand. The cake was minimally decorated with yellow bits that looked like lemon zest.

"This is," he took another step closer. "Is this?" He asked hesitantly.

"A lemon and lavender cake that you insisted would be a wonderful combination?"

Buck's eyes flew up to meet Nicos. 

"Yes, it is."

Buck watched Nico pick up a plate where two candles had been stuck. Nico produced a lighter from somewhere and lit the candles. 

"I am sorry the candles are not on the cake. I was certain you would lecture me on it with the situation being what it is. But one must blow candles and make a wish on one’s birthday. I refuse to let 2020 take that away.”

Buck bit down hard on his lower lip as Nico stepped closer holding out the plate to him, his phone in his other hand.

"Why two candles?" He rasped out, his throat tight with emotions.

"One for your birthday and one for good luck. Make a wish, Evan."

Buck smiled at Nico and held his gaze as he made a wish and blew out the candles.

"Are you going to sing happy birthday to me?" Buck teased as he swallowed back all the things he wanted to say but knew he probably shouldn't. Not at this time at least.

"As you wish it so shall it be," Nico said easily.

Buck's jaw dropped as Nico set the plate down, backed up to lean against the railing, and picked up his guitar.

"Oh my god, you planned this," Buck whispered excitedly. He was finally going to hear Nico play in person!

A gentle strum of the guitar as Nico smiled and met Buck's eyes. 

"Tanti auguri a te, tanti auguri a te,"

Buck shivered as Nico's deep rich voice caressed his senses like a lover's kiss.

"Tanti auguri a te caro Evan, tanti auguri a te," Nico's voice lowered down to a whisper as he ended the song. 

He set the guitar down with care and took two steps forward to close the distance between them. 

"As you are learning my language I felt it fitting for you to have our birthday song." Nico smiled and gently touched Buck's chin with his knuckle. 

Buck swallowed hard, his hands drifting to grasp Nico's hips.

Nico slowly leaned into Buck’s side, and pressed his lips against Buck's brow. “Ti auguro tanto amore e felicità." He slowly pulled back. "I wish you a lot of love and happiness.” He smiled, "Now let us see about dinner unless you would prefer dessert first.”

Buck shuddered as Nico's stubble brushed against his cheek. He was ready to jerk off over the man kissing his brow. This was ridiculous! He wanted dessert first if Nico was his dessert.

He realized while he was simmering in his horny thoughts Nico had pulled away and disappeared back into the apartment. He cleared his throat, forced the haze of arousal down, and hurried inside after him. 

"What shall we get?" He asked. Then stopped and blinked at Nico standing in the kitchen stirring something. "Nico," he asked patiently, "what did you do?"

"I cooked you a birthday meal," Nico said casually. "Tomato risotto with capers and olives, rosemary and sea salt focaccia, and a simple spinach salad.”

Buck shook his head, "I invited you to dinner!" He protested. "I didn't want you to cook."

Nico turned and leaned against the counter folding his arms across his impressive chest. "Are you saying you do not like my cooking?" he demanded in a low voice.

Buck swallowed as the tone fed his arousal. He saved Nico’s growly voice in his mental spank bank Nico folder, told himself he was totally not going to hell for it, and licked his lips.

"I love your cooking!" I love you. I love everything about you! "But I wanted to take you out on my birthday," he paused and shook his head. "Or treat you out.” 

Nico lifted one shoulder in a negligent shrug, "This is better, no? You love my cooking. I know you do. So I cooked for you for your special day."

“I didn't want you to go through any trouble for me,” Buck admitted softly.

"It is my choice to. And one I would choose to do again." Nico lifted one eyebrow, "Do not argue with me after I finally gave in and asked my aunt for her focaccia recipe. You do not know what I will be facing in my family group chat for this."

Buck grinned immediately. "You asked your zia for a recipe for me?"

Nico nodded, “For you."

"You're willing to be teased by your entire family for me,” Buck said in awe.

Nico sighed, “For you." He spread his arms, “Let me feed you, Evan Buckley."

Buck hugged himself, utterly besotted with this man. "Feed me, Nico." Feed me. Love me.

—

[Sent 21:45] Grazie mille Nico

[Sent 21:45] Sei un buon amico [You are a good friend]

[Sent 21:47] Google?

[Sent 21:47] Me <smiley face emoji>

[Sent 21:47] <smiley face emoji> Buon compleanno caro. Grazie di esistere   [Happy Birthday dear. Thank you for being born]

[Sent 21:48] I’m going to have to google that. 

[Sent 21:48] I should probably wait until I reach that part of my lessons. But I really want to know what you said.

[Sent 21:50] Nico…

[Sent 21:50] <gif - Schitt’s Creek - David and Patrick hugging>

[Sent 21:50] Thank you for choosing me to spend your birthday with. It has been my honour

[Sent 21:51] Thank you for celebrating me the way you have. For cooking for me. For making me feel so special <hug emoji>

[Sent 21:51] You are special which makes it normal to do so <hug emoji>

[Sent 21:52] Buona notte Nico

[Sent 21:52] Buonanotte Evan

Chapter Text

Buck looked up, eyes trailing over those long legs, the strong chest, to the beautiful face covered in stubble. "Didn't feel like getting all dressed up today?" He took in Nico's dark green cotton drawstring pants and white polo with a little smile. The man dressing up in a dressed-down version of his work wear claiming it made him feel like he was getting into the spirit of work had been a cute little fact to add to his mental Nico folder. His current attire was considered his casual wear. Home casual wear.

Nico ran a hand through his hair and squeezed his eyes shut for a moment. He opened his eyes and sighed, “I had a meeting today with a new mother who has returned to work. I feel it frazzles her to see me,” he waved his hand elegantly down his body, “as I am. So I fixed it.” He grabbed a box and held it around the grill, "Put it in the refrigerator."

Buck eagerly accepted the box. Discovering that Nico cooked and baked like a dream when bored had been a revelation and a highlight of this damn pandemic. 

"Are people still grumbling about you dressing up for work?" He asked as he opened the box. "What are these?"

"Protein cacao balls. Ingredients - Almond meal because I was lazy to make the flour, dates, protein powder, I used yours, cacao nibs, sea salt, rolled in coconut flakes. I have a bigger batch setting, I shall top you up once it is done.” Nico grabbed a cushion and dropped it onto the floor, then folded himself smoothly down onto it. “And if by people grumbling you mean my brother, then yes. I plan to tell him it is a," he hesitated and met Buck's eyes, "not a me problem."

Buck's head snapped up from where he had been taking pictures of the cacao balls to stare at Nico. "Aww," he cooed, "you're doing so well!"

Nico smiled, one of his not exactly rare but not frequent bright smiles, "Grazie, Evan."

"Be sure to tell your brother it's ‘not a me problem it's a you problem’,” Buck suggested gently. He watched Nico mouth the words as if committing them to memory and nod. 

He lifted up the box a little, "I appreciate you keeping me stocked in snacks and food and groceries."

Nico inclined his head, "I am being a good neighbor and friend while you are out keeping the citizens of Los Angeles safe. And returning all the grocery kindness you did me last year.”

Buck smiled, "When did you take an interest in cooking?" he asked curiously.

Nico took a sip of his glass of water. "From young. My mama, decided from when my brother was young that no son of hers was going out in the world with no knowledge of how to feed himself. My grandmamas, aunties, they all respected her decision and taught us how to make selective family recipes. My brother, he is a good cook for Italian food and can make the Spanish dishes Carmen loves the most but has no passion to learn more. I enjoy it."

Buck leaned in, then remembered he wasn’t supposed to and sat back. "Why did your mother have that stance? I feel there's a story there." He winced at how that had come out. "I mean if you want to share of course!" he added hastily.

A small smile played about Nico's mouth. And god, he loved that Nico was so expressive around him a good chunk of the time. He filed it away that talking about his family got Nico smiley.

Nico sighed with a little laugh, "When my father was," he paused as if seeking the word he wanted, "COURTING my mother, she asked him if he knew to cook. Papa said he knew to provide," he said with a flourish of his hand, the most restrained Italian Buck had ever met, "and would always provide for her. She said no provide, but COOK with the ingredients he provided. He did not." Nico smiled broadly making Buck's stomach clench at how beautiful this man was. "Her condition of accepting to consider his proposal was for Papa to be able to bake her a cake."

Buck blinked, "A cake."

"A cake," Nico confirmed. "Her mama liked this cake called Torta caprese . Mama was learning to make Sfogliatelle that his mama liked so he should make her mama a cake. I cannot even explain to you what Sfogliatelle is. You must look it up.” He shuddered, “I tried several times and did not succeed completely at it.”

“You like succeeding,” Buck said softly. He grinned, "How long did it take him to learn?"

"Papa lets no challenge go by so he accepted of course."

Buck inclined his head, ”Of course.” He was fascinated by the way the early evening sun made Nico’s eyes sparkle.

"He asked around and decided to cook Mama's mama and papa’s favorite meal. Food before dessert as is the way.” Nico dug his teeth into his lower lip, his face lit with amusement.

Buck's mouth dropped open, "So this man, your papa, who couldn’t cook at all?"

"At all."

"Decided he would make his future in-laws a full meal AND dessert in order to woo your mama?"

Nico smiled serenely. "The Rossi men go big in love, Evan."

Buck blushed and called himself all kinds of idiot for it. “What did he cook?" He asked eagerly. “Tell me the story!” he begged.

Nico laughed. “He did the fried zucchini blossoms stuffed with mozzarella and prosciutto and a tomato bruschetta with the bread he made himself for the antipasti. He made the choice of gnocchi for the Primi , the first course, just so he could show off the skill of making it fresh and a pasta carbonara.”

“With pasta from scratch in that too?” Buck asked, completely hooked on this story.

Nico raised an eyebrow at him, “Always fresh when fresh is the option, Evan.”

Buck grinned. He so adored that sexy little eyebrow lift. “What’s next?”

Nico cleared his throat, “ Secondo is the main course, typically we have meat or fish here. He chose venison rolls stuffed with mushrooms and a red wine sauce. Now this would be quite at home as a Christmas dish so it did showcase his honest intent. He was treating the dinner as special as Christmas.”

Buck folded his legs and hugged them in delight. “And then is Dolci . He made the,” he hesitated and spoke slowly and carefully, “ Torta Caprese .”

Nico inclined his head, “ Molto bene .”

“That’s amazing. He put on a full spread.”

“Yes. And it only took him six months to learn,” Nico said casually.

Buck's mouth dropped open again, "Only six months! That's half a year, Nico!"

“Well, he also had work. So the time to cook was left to the weekend. He also used the weekend to spend time with Mama.”

“But six months!” Buck said, still surprised.

Hazel eyes locked onto blue, "Love is worth six months no?" He smiled his sweet little smile, ”Is love not worth waiting and working for to have?"

Buck swallowed hard and blinked back tears. They had been waiting. He hoped it was a they and he hadn’t been reading Nico completely wrong. Yeah, love was worth waiting for. And working toward.

He cleared his throat, ”So he cooked the perfect meal and won your mother over.” 

“He cooked the perfect meal, asked if he could have the honor of calling her mama and papa his mama and papa too, and dropped down on his knee to propose to her... with her favorite dolci , tiramisù .”

Nico’s voice was incredibly fond.

Buck couldn’t control his tears this time and quickly wiped his eyes. He pressed his hand against his heart, ”Ugh. That is so sweet."

"It is. Thus food began as a love language in our family. Tonio proposed to Carmen with churros he learned from her abuela , and a lemon ricotta pie he learned from her nonna."

Buck internally squealed at how adorable these people were. "So I should know something special is up if you bake me a pie or make me gnocchi?” he blurted out. His eyes widened. He had not meant to say that! He swallowed at the intense expression on Nico’s face.

"No. I would not produce a pie for you, Evan. And I have already made you gnocchi,”’ Nico said casually.

Buck felt like someone had grabbed his heart and squeezed it in their fist. He had ruined this by overstepping.

"I have already baked you a pie too.” Nico met Buck’s eyes, “I would find something more significant."

Buck’s eyes widened. Had he heard right? Were they really on the same page here? They had had one sort of date just before the world locked down. That had been a year ago. More recently they had spent Christmas Eve together and then a breakfast together on New Year’s Eve before Buck had headed off to work. 

On the first of the year, he had decided to celebrate a year of them knowing each other by bringing over Indian food for them to share and donuts to indulge Nico’s sweet tooth that he usually kept under tight wraps. They had been building an intimate non sexual, non physical relationship for over a YEAR! Nico was going to kill him with this. He was just going to die. But what a way to go.

"I'm looking forward to it," he whispered.

They sat staring at each other for some time, hope building that with the world opening back up, they could spend time next to each other at the same table frequently. Sit on the same couch close together without worrying. Hug each other. Breathe each other in without worrying that it could cause harm. Just be together. Buck knew safety was just an illusion. But there wasn't much he could do about that and there was only so much he could control.

Nico slowly straightened up, "For now, I have an eggplant lasagna in the oven. Come over in five minutes for Linner."

Buck groaned, "You are so cute!”

Little Evan had informed Nico that the early dinner he tended to eat thanks to his strange working hours was called Linner. The meal between lunch and dinner. And Nico had taken right to it. 

"You are quite cute yourself Evan,” Nico said as he stood up and reached through the grill to ruffle Buck’s hair.

Buck protested, "Not the hair Nico!"

"The curls must be set free," Nico sang as he turned away.

Buck rested his face on his folded arms and with a dreamy sigh watched Nico saunter indoors. Yeah, he adored this guy. His guy. And finally, their time had come. He crossed his fingers and hid his smile against his arm.

Chapter Text

Buck brushed his foot against Nico’s as he watched Nico who was sitting opposite him out on Nico's balcony. He shivered when Nico brushed his toes against his. When those gorgeous eyes turned to look at them he smiled and carefully lined up his foot, pressing their feet together slowly from heel to toe.

They were both pleasantly sleepy after spending the evening playing scrabble against each other on their phones while sitting opposite each other. Their reluctance to be parted had led to cooking dinner together and sharing a meal. Buck had made Nico stay seated while he took care of cleaning the kitchen and loading the dishwasher. Then he had settled back opposite Nico to continue their game.

“When’s your birthday?” Buck asked curiously. “I feel like that's something I should know but I don’t." He frowned, “Why don't I know when your birthday is?” He sat up, pressing his foot firmly against Nico's, “I missed your birthday!” He was aware he had gone from zero to ninety with this but that’s just how he was at times and he trusted Nico was used to it.

Nico stretched his arms above his head and groaned, his foot pressing firmly right back against Buck's, his shirt lifting up to reveal a hint of his firm stomach.

Buck swallowed and resisted the urge to lean in and slide his hands under Nico’s shirt and up his ribs. He swore to himself that that was a life goal for him. To feel that golden, warm skin under his hands. He shook his head and exited out of love-lust mode. He had decided from this year that it was now love-lust mode rather than lust-love mode. Yay, 2021.

“Let me know when I may speak,” Nico said, then yawned and lowered his arms.

Buck softened, “I should let you go to bed.”

Nico's eyes were barely open, “Are you going to tuck me into bed, Evan?”

Buck smirked, “I’d love to tuck you into bed if you’d like me to.”

Nico inclined his head a little, his eyelashes looking lushly long and dark framing his eyes. “Your bed or mine?”

“Whatever you want, Nico,” Buck said softly.

Nico smiled sleepily and rubbed his foot against Buck’s. “You did not miss my birthday.”

“I didn’t?" Buck asked, confused.

“You made me brownies on my birthday. And got me Indian food.”

“Brownies,” Buck repeated, mentally recalling how often he had made Nico brownies. And Indian food? They had had Indian food several times together. Last year pre pandemic. Then during. And once this year already to celebrate New Year's Day. So that still left his question unanswered, when was Nico’s birthday?

“Yes. The fudgy walnut brownies with almond shavings,” Nico rubbed his fingers together as if to explain the texture to Buck. 

Buck’s jaw dropped open. He had only made that particular kind of brownie once for Nico. He leaned forward, “Are you telling me we met on your birthday last year? You moved in here on your birthday?” he demanded.

“Yes,” Nico said simply. “I got a fresh beginning on my birthday.”

“But,” Buck rested his hand on Nico's foot, rubbing his thumb against his ankle, “you were meant to have dinner with Antonio and Carmen and J and Tris that night,” he said softly, confused. He remembered Jason inviting him over to meet their friends for dinner and mentioning that the friends were bringing their brother along. He had said he’d consider it but it had felt like too much of a set up and he had happily spent his day and night with Nico instead.

“I did not agree to that dinner, Evan. And it was not a birthday dinner event. Jason had invited me over if I felt up to it and suggested I could meet his friend too. At the time I did not know the friend was to be you.”

“You chose to spend your birthday with me,” Buck whispered. He blinked. “Indian food. I brought us Indian food on your birthday this year.”

“Yes. And donuts. And we had us a wonderful day together,” Nico murmured.

“Why didn’t you tell me?” Buck asked gently. He watched Nico sink his teeth into his lower lip and work his teeth back and forth, a gesture he had seen Nico do when he was sorting himself out mentally. “Hey,” he said softly, “it’s just me. And you know you don’t have to tell me.” 

Nico nodded minutely and let go of his lip. “I am still working through the birthday situation. In therapy,” he explained slowly. “I enjoyed how I spent it last year. And your lovely food surprise brought me great pleasure this year.” He smiled, “Your company, in person, right here was the best gift too. Donuts came a close second.”

Buck smiled and slid his hand up under Nico's trousers, cupping Nico's calf. “I want to take you somewhere for your birthday celebration this year. You've not seen much of LA. Is there something you want to do or see? Go to the beach or hiking?”

Nico looked at him for a long moment then nodded. “I would like to go to Disney. Whenever it reopens.”

Buck blinked in surprise, “You want to go to Disney?”

“Yes. I would like to ride all the roller coasters, and eat all the food I rarely allow myself to eat without thinking through it and to not be tethered to my phone.”

Buck’s smile slowly widened as Nico spoke. The man was just ridiculously charming and a wonderful surprise with his choice of Disney. “Just the two of us?”

“Sì. Just you and me.”

Buck squeezed Nico’s calf, “It’s a date,” he whispered.

Nico smiled, “A date.”

Chapter Text

“Buck, what did you do for Valentine’s Day last year when the world was a safe place to go out without masks and having to remember not to touch all the things?"

Buck looked away from the movie they were paused on to Christopher, then flicked his gaze to Eddie and raised his eyebrows. At Eddie's bemused expression and shrug, he focused back on Christoper. 

"I uh had a Friendtine dinner date."

Christopher tilted his head, "Friendtine?"

Eddie raised his eyebrows at him then wriggled them, "Friendtine?"

Buck rolled his eyes at Eddie. Like he'd mention THAT kind of date to Christopher. 

"Like a Valentine with your friend?" Christopher asked.

Buck smiled, "Yes, exactly. Though my friend said we could just call it Valentine's as he believes loving someone and liking someone don’t have to be limited to a romantic kind of love.” 

Christopher propped his chin up on his fist, "That's cute."

Eddie followed suit and propped his chin up on his fist, "Yeah Buck that's cute. Who's the friend?"

"Are you asking him to be your Friendtine-Valentine again this year?"

Buck blinked as father and son spoke over each other then looked at each other and grinned. Curiosity was a genetic trait in the Diaz family.

Buck avoided Eddie's eyes. "His name is Nico and I hadn't thought about Valentines yet this year. We’re working on the day anyway.”

"Ohhh Nico! I met him on video call that one time right?" Christopher asked eagerly. "The one who got me the fancy white chocolate?"

“Yeah,” Eddie smirked, “ohhh Nico.”

Buck decided he was going to ignore his best friend. He smiled at Christopher, "Yes, that Nico."

When Nico had traveled to Milan last year in February he had brought back Venchi chocolates for Buck. And handed him a slab of salted white chocolate stating it was for Christopher. Buck had been touched that the man had remembered Christopher when Buck had only mentioned him once.

"Well now we're talking about Valentine's so are you going to ask him?”

Buck raised his eyebrows at Eddie for poking at him. 

"Ohh yes, you should! Someone should get to do something fun even if I'm stuck here," Christopher teased.

Buck and Eddie looked at each other and relaxed at Christopher's teasing demeanor. Buck had introduced Christopher and Evan a couple of months ago. With the situation as high risk as it was for Christopher they hadn't been able to go out but Tristan brought Evan over once a week for the boys to hang out outside at a distance and just sit chatting with each other.And as and when the parents could, the boys went out together to safe, outdoor spots. With Eddie and Jason working different shifts, it left one of them available to take Christopher and Evan out if Tristan was working. The two boys also spoke on the phone, gamed together, and chatted online through their days. Once the Richardson’s had moved into The Towers complex, it had led to more opportunities for Christopher and Evan to socialize together. Just spending time together on a regular basis had done a lot toward easing both boy's loneliness and anxieties.

"Maybe all three of us can do a Friendtine-Valentine this year?" Buck suggested. "It is after all a day in our busy lives to celebrate love of all kinds."

Christopher smiled and shook his head. "That's nice but nooo. Evan and I have a picnic planned with our friends for the 13th. Everyone agreed to do it a day earlier and everything so we could hang out later with it being a Saturday. And I like this idea of Friendtine so I'm going to ask Evan to be my Friendtine!" He patted Eddie's leg, “Dad, you’re going to be home right?"

"Yes I'll be home,” Eddie ran a gentle hand through Christopher's hair.

Both Diaz boys focused on Buck.

“So, you should ask Nico out,” Eddie said.

“We’re working on Valentine’s,” Buck repeated.

“Pre-Valentine’s on the 13th,” Eddie said easily.

Christopher clapped, ”Ohh do it now! I can say hi to him on video call."

Buck blinked, "Ah, bud, I'll ask him later."

"Why can't I say hi to your friend?" Christopher asked with a pout.

Buck tried to hold out and not give in, in the face of Christopher's pout. He tried, okay? The kid had been deploying it pretty regularly over the past few months to get what he wanted. And Buck in his guilt that Christopher was stuck at home gave in fairly regularly. He did the same with Evan but at this point Jason had given up on expecting Buck to not do exactly what his godson wanted.

Buck folded like a cheap paper napkin, "Of course you can.”

'So weak,’ Eddie mouthed at him. 

While tugging his phone out of his pocket Buck rubbed his middle finger against his brow. Eddie’s snicker told him he had gotten the message. 

[Sent 19:09] Hey, are you free? I'm at Eddie's and Christopher 

wants to say hi

"Well?" Christopher asked eagerly.

"Ah, just waiting for him to reply. I wouldn't want to disturb him if he's in a meeting or sleeping."

"At this hour?" Eddie asked innocently.

“He’s working with LA, Japan, and Milan this week. His work hours are all over the place," Buck shot back and narrowed his eyes. He was going to change Eddie's name in his contacts to Sassmonster Diaz!

"How does that work, Buck? He works Japan hours?" Christopher asked curiously.

Buck smiled, "Sometimes he starts his day very early. Or he'll start, take a break, and then shift his hours or work late into the night.”

"That sounds like a long day." Christopher tilted his head, "Or maybe a fun day where you get a break. Does he have a panna cotta hobby?”

That was another thing Christopher’s friendship with Evan had brought. They referred to the pandemic as everything but the pandemic. Evan had read about it online and shared it with Christopher. Pannacotta being their latest thing.

Just then Buck's phone rang with a video call from Nico. He showed Christopher the screen then turned it around and answered the call.

"Hey," he said softly as soon as Nico was on screen. He felt his mouth go dry at how GOOD the man looked with his tousled hair.

"Ciao, Evan. How are you today?"

"I'm good. Spending the day with my two favorite guys is always a delightful time." 

Nico's lips turned up in a small smile, “I am saddened to know I am not your favorite guy."

Buck swallowed hard at Nico's teasing tone. A quick glance told him Eddie was grinning at him and was not going to let him hear the end of this.

"Ah, Nico, you're my sixth favorite guy," he said honestly.

He noticed Eddie facepalming out of the corner of his eye and picked up a pillow to throw at him.

"That pleases me. You were my sixth but I recently upgraded you to fifth.”

Buck's smile widened. He knew exactly which four rated above him. "I love that."

He could see Christopher waving his arms from the corner of his eye and nodded. 

"Someone wants to say hi to you." He stood up and handed Christopher his phone, then moved behind him to lean on the back of the couch so both of them could be on screen.

"Hi," Christopher said brightly.

"Hello Christopher, how are you today?"

"I'm well, school was interesting today. How are you?"

"I am well too. The day has been pleasant. What made your day interesting?"

Buck wanted to coo at how smoothly Nico was interacting with Christopher. He wasn't surprised after having seen the way he interacted with Evan.

"My teacher's kitten kept jumping in the way of her laptop today in Math class. It was just really cute!"

"Ah, that does sound rather adorable."

"What's the most interesting thing that happened to you today?"

Nico smiled, one of his small, warm smiles that sent Buck into melty goo goo mode as Jason called it. Or as Eddie called it, heart eyes activated mode.

"This chat with you has been the most interesting and nicest part of my day today, Christopher."

"Really?" Christopher asked shyly.

"Truly," Nico replied gently.

“You’re really nice,” Christopher said happily.

Nico tilted his head, “Thank you. You are as well. How are you spending your evening?”

“We’re watching a movie. The first Hobbit one. Have you watched it?” Christopher turned the phone to show Nico the TV then turned it so Eddie could wave hello and moved it back to bring himself and Buck in frame.

“Ah, yes I have. It was lovely and made me cry.” Nico’s eyes flicked up to Buck and back to Christopher.

Christopher frowned, “Cry? Why?”

Eddie quickly stood up and moved to lean over the back of the couch beside Buck. “Yeah, why?”

Buck leaned in, “Good cry or bad cry?”

“Bucky cried after Lord of the Rings: Return of the King,” Christopher filled Nico in.

Eddie laughed and nudged Buck. “Buck cried after each Lord of the Rings.”

Buck shrugged, “It was an emotional series!”

Nico’s expression could only be described as soft and fond. It startled Buck to see Nico seem so easy and free. He figured maybe Nico was freer with his smiles around children.

Nico whispered, “Christopher, I suggest you keep some handkerchiefs ready, for it is likely that your Buck is going to shed tears with The Hobbit series as well. There may be sobbing.”

Christopher giggled, “I don’t have handkerchiefs. Will paper napkins do?”

“I don’t see why not. But I will get you some handkerchiefs. Buck, do remember to hydrate after you cry,” Nico said pleasantly.

Buck pressed his lips together to hide his smile while Eddie shook beside him with muffled laughter.

“Oh! The reason we called. Buck wanted to ask you about Valentine’s Day!” Christopher announced.

“Bud!” Buck protested.

“ Mijo! ” Eddie said with a laugh. He nudged Buck, “This is all on you for spoiling and indulging him.”

Buck huffed, “That’s my entire job as the friend.”

“Ignore them,” Christopher announced, “they can do this for a long time.”

Nico laughed and moved. The camera shifted for a moment and then Nico was back in frame. Buck realized he had moved to sit on his swing.

“Buck said you celebrated Friendtine-Valentine’s Day together last year! Are you going to celebrate together this year too?” Christopher asked eagerly.

Eddie gently took the phone out of Christopher’s hand, “And that’s enough.” He smiled at Nico, “Don’t answer that, Nico. You can discuss it directly with Buck without this curious little son of mine directing the conversation.”

Buck reached for the phone with a grin as Christopher protested that he was merely gathering information. He moved to the kitchen and leaned on the counter. 

“Hey.”

Nico slung his arm behind his head and rested his head back. “Hey.”

Buck took in his soft, sleepy eyes, the tousled hair, the tank top and realized Nico was ready for bed. “Did I wake you?”

“No. You texted me right as I got out of the shower. I got dressed to speak to you as my usual sleep attire of nothing would have been inappropriate.”

Buck’s mouth dried up at the thought of Nico having read his text damp and naked out of the shower. Of Nico sleeping naked. “Nico,” he whispered.

“Evan,” Nico said sweetly. He raised his eyebrow, “I was not joking about The Hobbit. I cried a river at the end. I do not know how Christopher may tolerate it. Though I suppose I should be more worried about your reaction.”

Buck sighed, “We’re already nearly through the first one. We’re committed now.” He smiled, “I guess you’ll just have to console me.”

“Oh? You shall give me the privilege of kissing your tears away?”

Buck smiled, “You are so charming. I’m working on the 14th but will you spend Valentine’s Day with me on the 13th?”

“Not Friendtine like last year?” Nico asked softly.

“No,” Buck said firmly. “Valentine’s. A wonderful man told me that it is after all a day in our busy lives to celebrate love of all kinds."

Nico’s eyes shone as he sunk his teeth into his lower lip for a brief moment. “That does indeed sound charming.”

“So?” Buck pressed.

Nico smiled, slow and sweet, “Yes, Evan, I would love to be your Valentine.”

“It’s a date,” Buck said softly.

“It’s a date,” Nico confirmed.

—

Buck had just finished his post workout shower routine and was eyeing his bed while trying to resist the urge to nap . He knew if he did he’d ruin himself for sleep tonight. 

He blinked as he heard music. Someone was playing the guitar. Nico was outside playing his guitar. He went downstairs and grabbed his bottle of water off the counter, then wandered out onto the balcony sipping his water. He smiled when he saw Nico lounging on his balcony couch strumming his guitar. As his eyes took in what the man was wearing he promptly choked and began coughing.

"Evan!"

Buck waved the bottle to indicate he was okay as he smacked his chest and got his breath back. A minute later he set the bottle down, took a slow deep breath, and looked up. Wide-eyed hazel eyes were watching him, open concern on Nico's face, long fingers wrapped around the grill.

" What is that ?" Buck gasped out.

Those strong eyebrows scrunched in confusion, "That?"

"That!" Buck waved his hand along to indicate Nico's body.

"This is when the Americans gif would be deployed, Evan," Nico said blandly.

Buck snickered. He sighed deeply as he took a step forward and reached through the gap in the grill to press his hand against Nico's chest. "This. What is this?" He rubbed his hand against the ribbed and mesh tank top Nico was wearing.

"Oh," Nico's expression cleared. “It is nice, no? It is my cousin’s. I liked it so he got his use out of it and sent it to me."

Buck gave in to the temptation to rub his finger in the little gap and touch Nico's skin. "How are you as hot, if not hotter, in this than when you sit here shirtless lounging like a big cat?” He gently curled his fingers into the little gaps, utterly shameless in the way he was feeling Nico up. “How are you not cold?” He let his nail rub against Nico’s nipple.

"You tell me," Nico said pleasantly. He reached through the grill and gripped Buck's hip, “Am I to take it as a compliment or complaint? We have been over the weather conversation you delicate Angeleno. I refuse to have it again.”

Buck sighed and trailed his other hand up, his fingers gently sliding up Nico's neck to cup his jaw. "Always a compliment, Nico. Everything about you is a beautiful compliment to this world."

He watched delightedly as Nico smiled his little smile and averted his eyes. He dragged his thumb along the neatly trimmed stubble enjoying the soft rasp against his skin.

"Come over?" He asked softly.

"In a short while," Nico promised softly. "I am awaiting a call from my parents. As soon as it is done.”

Buck couldn't resist the urge to trail his thumb up and rub it along Nico's lower lip. He swallowed hard as those beautiful eyes snapped up to meet his. A moment later Nico parted his lips and gently closed his mouth on Buck's thumb. Buck shuddered as Nico's tongue flicked against his thumb.

"You're terrible," he whispered.

"You started it," Nico murmured around this thumb then sucked gently on the digit.

Buck whimpered as Nico's hand fisted on his t-shirt, his tongue dragging against his thumb. "I have the best ideas," he agreed.

They groaned as Nico's phone chose that moment to ring. Buck huffed and reluctantly dragged his thumb away from Nico’s tongue, taking a second to caress his lower lip.

"Best ideas but with terrible timing," Nico sulked. He tightened his fist in Buck's t-shirt, "Do not go anywhere. I will be over within the hour."

"Yes sir, Mr. Rossi," Buck murmured.

Nico raised an eyebrow at him and reluctantly pulled away. "So obedient."

__

Buck paced the length of his loft as he waited for Nico to arrive. They flirted, man did they flirt! They flirted on text, they flirted when they talked on the phone, they flirted in the little moments they got in person together. And now they had flirted physically. Again. 

Could he do it? Could he take a risk with Nico's health and do what they both wanted? Had wanted to do for a year? Touch and kiss and drag their hands over the other's body. 

He braced his arm against the wall and squeezed his eyes shut as he imagined how good it would feel to strip Nico's clothes off. To press their naked bodies together. To feel another man, to feel NICO against him. On him. Under him. In him. He swallowed hard as his cock hardened, reminding him of how long it had been since he had felt the intimate touch of another. Even longer since he had felt a man's touch. He palmed himself, he had shamelessly had a year of orgasms with only Nico on his mind. 

He stopped touching himself and stood with his fists clenched taking deep breaths. It would be fine. It would be great! This wasn't just about sex. Well, it was. It was about sex. He really wanted to have sex. But only with Nico. They had built a foundation here. They were ready to take the next step. Several steps. To be intimate physically. To date. Officially. To be with each other. He was certain they were on the same page here. They were serious. This wasn’t just some pandemic brought on intimacy. They both wanted this. And only with each other.

Buck shook his head and smiled. This was a good thing. He had built a solid foundation with Nico. They deserved this. And Buck had already had the first dose of the vaccine. He was tested regularly at work. He was in the clear. It was a risk he felt safe taking if Nico felt it was worth it as well. He could allow himself this. They could allow themselves to have this. All he wanted was to wrap his arms around Nicodemus Rossi and get a second kiss. If it led to more, that was just how it was meant to be.

__

He had moved his pacing over to the door and had reduced the range of his pacing to move back and forth by the door. He didn’t even care that he was going to look this eager to spend time with Nico. He was. He didn’t care to pretend otherwise. He wasn’t expecting sex. He was expecting to get to be close to him and go jerk himself off after. 

He heard a knock on his door and there was no other word for it, he twirled mid-stride and lunged at the door, yanking it open, a smile on his face. A smile which changed to one of confusion as his eyes dropped from the empty space where he had expected his tall man, to take in who actually stood at his door.

“Christopher?” He asked, confused. He looked behind the young boy in the empty hallway then immediately stepped aside to welcome him in. “Hey, bud, come on in.”

Christopher stared at Buck for a long moment. “Hey Buck,” he said softly as he walked past Buck. “You don’t look happy to see me.”

Buck shook his head even though Christopher couldn’t see his face. “No, kiddo, I’m always happy to see you. I’m just surprised.” He glanced out into the hallway again then turned to the young boy. “Where’s your dad?”

Christopher paused and turned to stare at Buck.

Buck took in the guilty expression on that too-expressive, sweet face, dread rapidly quietening the happiness he had been flying high on. “Chris,” he said gently, “where’s your dad?”

“I ran away from home,” Christopher whispered. He thumped his crutch against the floor, “Well I Ubered away. Dad doesn’t know.”

“ Christopher Diaz, ” Buck whispered, aghast. He closed the distance between them and squatted down, gently cupping Christopher’s little face, “Are you okay?”

Christopher’s lower lip trembled, “I’m upset. I’m not hurt. Physically. My feelings are hurt.” He shrugged one shoulder, “I’m just so upset.”

“Oh, my dude, you being just upset is a big enough deal for me as you being physically injured.” Buck sighed and spread his arms, “Want a hug?”

Christopher’s face crumpled as he sagged against Buck and tucked his face against Buck’s shoulder. Buck wrapped his arms around Christopher and squeezed comfortingly. 

After a long moment, Buck pulled back and patted Christopher’s cheek, gently brushing his tears away. 

“Come wash your hands and face and let’s get you settled on the couch with a snack. I’m going to give your dad a call, okay?” Buck suggested gently.

Christopher nodded, misery radiating off him.

While Christopher was in the bathroom Buck tugged his phone out of his pocket and called Eddie.

“Buck? You gotta help me. Christopher,” Eddie said quickly when he answered the phone.

Buck interrupted Eddie, “Is here. He used your phone to call an Uber.” He nodded at Eddie’s sigh of relief.

“Alright, I’ll be over there in a second.”

“Sure. Drive safe,” Buck said gently.

He had just disconnected the call when he heard a knock on his door. He closed his eyes and sighed. Nico.

"That was fast. Did Dad already know I had left?" 

Buck looked at Christopher leaning against the bathroom doorway and shook his head.

"Ah, no, kiddo. Your dad knew you were gone and sounded frantic. He's on his way. That's probably Nico. He was coming over to hang out," Buck said as he moved to the door and opened it.

He trailed his eyes over Nico dressed in a fitted brown t-shirt and brown cotton lounge pants and sighed at how good he looked. "You changed," he observed softly. He loved it when Nico matched shades with his loungewear. It made him look extra snuggle-worthy. And gorgeous.

He opened the door wider so that Nico could see Christopher. "I have an unexpected but very welcome guest." He looked over his shoulder and smiled at Christopher who smiled back.

He was pleased that Nico's facial expression remained as pleasantly flat as ever with no disappointment to be seen. He didn’t want Christopher to feel he was interrupting their time together.

"Christopher, hello.” Nico’s usual flat tone changed to the pleasantly flat one that he used with his Evans. 

Buck smiled and stepped aside.

"Hi Nico," Christopher said with a little wave. "Buck said you were coming to hang out with him."

"That was the plan. But it is fine if you require Buck time instead. We," Nico's eyes flicked to Buck's, "can spend time another day."

"Will you still hang out?" Christopher asked eagerly.

Nico glanced at Buck who nodded. He smiled his small smile, "I would be most pleased to spend time with you, Christopher.”

Christopher smiled and began making his way to the couch.

Buck stepped aside and ran his hand down Nico's back as he walked past him. "You changed," he murmured.

Nico smirked, "I was not going to wear what my cousin deemed his slutty tank to speak with my parents."

Buck took the chance of wrapping his arm around Nico's waist from behind and tugging him close. "So slutty tank was just for me?" he murmured against Nico’s ear.

Nico rested his hand on Buck's arm and turned his head, "And me. Perhaps I shall wear it on my second date."

Buck sighed and squeezed Nico then let go. "Terrible."

"You love it," Nico said over his shoulder as he walked off toward the couch.

Buck swallowed back the urge to blurt out, 'I love you.' Eddie would never let him hear the end of it, J would probably be appalled and Tristan would be amused. And happy for him. Tristan was awesome like that. 

He was pleased to see Nico had grabbed a pillow and settled himself a distance away from Christopher. He didn't suggest Nico grab a chair. From what he had observed, more often than not Nico seemed to like sitting close to the ground.

“Do you wanna play a video game?” Christopher asked Nico.

Nico inclined his head, “We could. Or we could try a game where you are not on the screen again.”

“Oh? What kinda game? I’m too grown up for x and o’s,” Christopher said quickly.

“I believe one is never too grown up for x and o’s,” Nico said amused. “The game I suggest is called ‘Name, Place, Animal, Thing.”

“Evan taught me that game!” Christopher said excitedly. 

"So you know to play the game,” Nico observed. 

"Yes," Christopher said with a smile. "Evan and I have played it together."

"Great, let us play then." Nico looked at Buck, "We will need a sheet of paper and pen for Christopher. I will play on my phone."

Buck nodded, "Coming right up." He looked at Christopher, "You hungry for a snack, bud?"

"Uh, crackers?" Christopher asked.

"I happen to have cheddar shortbread biscuits. You wanna try?" Buck asked as he began backing away to the kitchen.

"Shortbread biscuits that aren’t sweet?" Christopher called out. "Okay?" He sounded uncertain.

"Nico made them," Buck said as he moved around gathering a notepad from the drawer and a pen. “Evan loves them.” He’d learned that telling a kid a friend liked the same food or activity was an easy way to convince them to give it a try.

“Really? If Evan loves them they have to be good. He said he’s a picky eater.” Christopher turned to Nico, “You know how to cook, Nico?"

Buck smiled as he heard Nico's gentle rumbling tone but not the exact words. He adored how soft-spoken Nico was most of the time. It contrasted beautifully with how boldly beautiful the man looked and the alpha male vibe he exuded damn near all the time.

He handed Christopher a notepad and pen. "Here you go."

"Are you playing with us, Buck?"

Buck smiled at that wide-eyed sweet face and gently brushed Christopher's hair back off his forehead. "You guys start and I'll join in a bit."

Christopher smiled at him and then looked at Nico. "Is that allowed?"

Nico nodded, "Sure, if you want Buck to play he can play. We will make an exception for him."

Buck smiled and wriggled his eyebrows at Nico before he went to put together a little snack and water tray for them. It was almost dinner time for Christopher and he didn't know if Nico had already eaten. But he knew once Eddie arrived food was not going to be immediately consumed so it was best to get a snack into the kid. 

When Eddie arrived, Buck and Nico had moved outside to the balcony to give father and son some privacy to talk.

Buck smiled at the weight he felt against his shoulder as Nico leaned on him. 

“Tired?” he asked softly.

“Hmm,” Nico agreed. 

“I make for a good pillow,” he hinted. He shivered when soft stubble brushed against his arm. 

“I shall test it. It has been a while since you were last my pillow.” Nico pressed his cheek against Buck's arm and relaxed. “Shall I go so you can speak with Eddie?”

“I want you to stay right here and relax,” Buck said firmly as he settled his hand on Nico’s thigh. As much as he wanted to be there for Eddie, he had no intention of neglecting Nico by sending him away. He and Eddie could talk another day if Eddie didn't want to speak in front of Nico. He needed to, wanted to start putting Nico first. His end goal was to be with Nico and he had to prioritize the man and put in the effort required in a relationship.

“As you wish,” Nico said softly. He slung his arm across Buck's chest and settled in against him.

Buck rested his hand on Nico's arm and wondered if this was the position they would have ended up in if they had gone ahead with the vibe they had going earlier. Would they have had sex and Nico snuggled into him for a nap after? He stroked Nico’s arm with his thumb, marveling at the soft skin covered in a dusting of hair. Nico exuded alpha male, from the way he looked to the way he sounded, to the way he carried himself. But he was also so soft and gentle and sweet. He shoved away the toxic interpretations of what a man should be and decided what Nico was, was perfect. He smiled and rested his head back against the railing.

He didn't have any regrets over Christopher coming over. He wished the boy had called him to come get him rather than risk an Uber. He was debating reporting the Uber driver for picking up an unaccompanied minor when Eddie stepped out onto the balcony.

His eyes flicked to Nico then back at Buck. “Christopher was worn out from the conversation and is taking a power nap.”

Buck nodded, “Cool. Did you guys talk it out?”

“Yeah,” Eddie winced and rubbed the nape of his neck. “Shouldn’t you wake him and put him to sleep in an actual bed?" he murmured as he sat down opposite Buck and Nico. "Your bed in fact is right here."

Buck glanced down at Nico who was slouched beside him seemingly asleep with his head on Buck's arm. "He's fine."

“He looks exhausted," Eddie pointed out.

"He's Nico, he's always operating on less than an optimal amount of sleep," Buck said. "Which means that when he is asleep or napping I leave him be. A few weeks ago at J's, he fell asleep on the floor. We just left him be and he got a solid hour-long nap out of it."

Eddie frowned, "Why was he on the floor?"

"He was doing a puzzle," Buck said while running a gentle hand up down Nico's arm.

"With Evan?" Eddie asked.

"No. Evan and I were playing Xbox."

Eddie laughed softly, "He has his own puzzles at Evan's?"

"I think his brother got him a new one. It's ridiculously cute that Antonio and Carmen buy their adult baby gifts,” Buck said fondly.

"Yeah," Eddie said softly.

"You'll finally meet them at the Friendtine picnic dinner next week."

Eddie winced, "Yeah, about that," he trailed off and sighed. He glanced behind him, looking in on Christopher then turned and met Buck’s eyes. “I kinda sorta made plans. For after,” he added hurriedly. He sagged back, “I’d kinda need to leave a bit early to get there.”

Buck trailed his fingers up Nico's arm. "Oh?" He raised his eyebrows. “And I guess you told Chris about it which is why he’s upset?”

Eddie nodded and sighed deeply. “I have a date,” he said reluctantly.

“You have a date,” Buck repeated. “With whom?”

”Ana asked me out," Eddie said slowly.

"Ana who?" Buck asked curiously. 

Eddie shifted, “Um, Ana Flores. I met her during the shift with the Q word that we do not speak of.”

Ana, Ana, Ana, why was that name so familiar? A face flashed forward from memory. He blinked. 

"Wait! Not Ana of the skateboard, Ana? Ana of the Chris can write a novel, Ana?" he demanded as he leaned forward.

Nico shifted and made a mild sound of distress when Buck moved as he spoke. Buck immediately settled and whispered, “Shhh,” against the top of Nico’s head.

“Um, yeah, that Ana,” Eddie agreed reluctantly.

Buck raised his eyebrows higher at Eddie's continued reluctance. "Okay," he stretched out the word. "You only just met her and she's asked you out for Valentine's Day. And you accepted . That's not alarming at all ."

Eddie winced, “Technically it’s pre-Valentine’s Day. She said it's not about Valentine's Day and that's just the only day she has available with her workload and stuff.”

Buck waved that away as an excuse, “It’s only pre-Valentine’s Day because we’re working on the day.”

He took a moment to process his thoughts as he continued gently petting and caressing Nico's arm. 

"Can I ask what you think you're doing going on a date with this woman, a former teacher of Chris' who you didn't even like, on an evening when you already have plans instead of spending the day with your son and our friends at a get together meticulously planned so that the boys get some feeling of normalcy?" He knew he sounded, well he didn't sound supportive but he wasn't sure he could be supportive with this. Eddie always put Christopher first. For him not to worried Buck. He stared at Eddie, “They all planned to have the get-together the day before Valentine’s just to work with our schedule because you were sad about missing out on this with him.” He didn’t add that Jason was missing out on Friendtine with it being a day earlier since he would be on shift.

Eddie winced and rubbed his arm. "Way to strike a blow, Buck."

Buck shrugged, "Who will if I don't?"

Eddie rubbed his face. "It's not good timing. I get that. But maybe it's time to put myself out there? I’m being repeatedly told it’s time to move on. And,” he said hurriedly, “the date is for after the Friendtine picnic. So it’s not like I’d be missing it! Just a bit of it. But I thought I’d push the dinner with Ana back and be there the entire time.”

"I think you can safely toss out that advice about putting yourself out there while we're still in a pandemic, Eds," Buck said softly. He blew out a breath, "If this, companionship, is what you need and want I'm on board. But you know she's not in our bubble which we're maintaining for the kid's sake."

Eddie sat up and leaned forward, "That's just it! She can be. Chris liked Ana. We’ve had our first dose of the vaccine. So now she can be part of our bubble and give him a little more company. We could do things together."

Buck stared wide-eyed at Eddie, his hand tightening on Nico's arm until Nico made a soft sound. He winced, quickly let go, and began gently petting him again.

"Sorry," he whispered.

With a soft moan, Nico ran his hand down Buck’s side and then braced himself on Buck's thigh as he slowly sat up. He rested his head back against the wall and elegantly waved his hand. "Carry on."

Buck swallowed as Nico's sleepy rumbly voice felt like rich hot chocolate sliding down his throat, heat pooling comfortingly low in his belly. He wondered when he had developed a whole kink over Nico’s voice and if he’d enjoy temperature play if Nico was the one doing it and talking him through it.

He forced himself to get out of what Eddie referred to as his love-lust drunk mode as he forced his eyes away from where Nico was slowly waking up to Eddie who was staring between them with a fond look on his face.

Stop it, he mouthed at Eddie. He cleared his throat. "I think what Christopher wants is to spend more time with Evan, Rashid, Kelly, and Sawyer. Not more adults."

"Christopher loves hanging out with Tristan!" Eddie protested. "I'm not even including you in the adults Buck 'cause you're just you. He adores you and you him."

Buck smiled as he always did when Eddie freely expressed how Buck was part of their lives. Then decided to talk some sense into him. ”Eds, Chris likes Tristan 'cause he's his friend's dad. And a cool dad at that."

"Are you certain Christopher does not like Tristan because he is a golden retriever in human form like Evan-Buck is?" 

Eddie and Buck looked at Nico who was stretching his arms above his head humming serenely.

"You know," Eddie said slowly, "now I can't unsee it. Tristan is so like you Buck but like more refined, more grown up, more Dad. Jason clearly has a type."

Buck raised his eyebrows, ”Not sure I'm loving this take that Tristan is a grown dog and I'm a puppy,” he muttered.

Nico took a deep breath and settled down. He trailed his hand up Buck’s thigh, "I am more cat person but I would take you home if you were a puppy."

Buck bit back his instinct to offer to follow Nico home while assuring him he'd make a very good puppy for him. Really,what was wrong with him?! He glared at Eddie's muffled laughter.

Nico bent his legs and rested his chin on his knee, trailing his fingertips along Buck’s thigh. "A first date on Valentine's weekend?" he asked Eddie. 

Eddie sighed, "It's the only evening she has free that week. And technically it’s pre-Valentine’s Day so not really a Valentine’s thing.”

“She is a teacher who is working from home,” Buck chimed in.

“Uh, no, she is a Vice Principal now,” Eddie informed Buck.

“Where are you taking her? Or her taking you?” Nico paused and waved his hand, “She taking you.” 

"She said every place would be Valentiny so she'd cook for us instead."

Nico blinked once then turned his head to look at Buck, "You are both puppies. Novices. Lacking in hope. Do not give each other dating advice."

Buck and Eddie both protested. 

"I've been married!"

"What did I do?"

They looked at each other and glared, then turned as one to stare at Nico.

"You," Nico ran his fingers down Buck's cheek, "did not ask the correct and relevant questions.” He patted Buck’s cheek and turned to look at Eddie. “And you were married young and did not date after. The lady is playing you, Eddie."

"She's not playing me!" Eddie protested. "She's Christopher’s teacher."

"Former teacher," Buck said helpfully.

"He liked her!”

"He got on a skateboard that should not have been at the school and fell off it on her watch," Buck tattled.

Eddie winced. "She tried to explain his limitations to me," he said slowly.

Buck made a face to express what he thought of that whole conversation when Eddie had told him about it.

Nico squeezed Buck’s thigh. "There is a line between explaining as an adult to your growing son that his medical condition does have limitations, mental or physical, and discovering what those may be with him without squashing his spirit and courage as he discovers what his personal limit is, correct? To have a teacher who is in a trusted position in one's life limit him already at nine years or younger? And without parental approval? That is not optimal."

"Maybe she's changed," Eddie said softly.

"Maybe she has," Nico agreed. He looked right at Eddie, "Are you dating her for you or for your son?"

Eddie and Buck both opened their mouth, looked at each other then shut it.

Nico squeezed Buck's thigh again then smoothly stood up. "I'm hungry. Do you have any cucumbers?” he asked as he made his way inside.

Buck forced himself to look away from Nico's ass, "You can't eat cucumbers for dinner!" 

Eddie groaned, "Damn it." He tilted his head back and covered his face. "What do I do?" He asked in a muffled tone.

"I guess go on the date and see if there is anything there."

Eddie lowered his hands and stared at Buck. "I can't go on the date now after Nico's little reality check!"

"You are welcome,” Nico called from inside where he stood at the sink. He waved a cucumber at Buck.

Buck laughed as he stood up. "Look, go on the date. And then be honest with yourself if you want to date her. Don't lie to yourself that this is for Christopher." He stepped forward and patted Eddie's shoulder, "And if it is for you, give yourself a break man. You're living through a pandemic too. You're allowed to feel lonely and want somebody."

"But Chris," Eddie swallowed and trailed off.

"Chris may get upset that you get to have a friend who you can be close to and he still has to be careful and social distance but that is also reality and life as we find ourselves in right now. Just don't throw it in his face that you get to go out and he doesn't and don't make it out that you're dating for him. He doesn't deserve the burden of that and neither do you. You’re maybe looking for a friend or girlfriend for you. Not a friend or mother for him.” He squeezed Eddie’s shoulder, "I'm going to go dissuade that one from eating cucumbers for dinner. Pasta in marinara sauce okay with you? It’s the mild one Chris and I like.”

Eddie placed his hand over Buck’s and squeezed, "Thanks. Pasta sounds good."

Buck smiled gently at Eddie, "It'll be okay, Eds. You'll see.”

—

Buck sighed heavily in a deeply dramatic, drawn-out, heartfelt fashion as he watched Nico sitting on the grass in Eddie's yard listening attentively to what Evan and Kelly were talking to him about.

"How is this my life?" he asked with a pout as he slumped against Tristan.

Tristan laughed and wrapped his arm around Buck's shoulders,  "Friendtine was your idea."

"Yeah, to ask Nico out," Buck sulked. “And it had already progressed into a date.”

Tristan rubbed Buck's shoulder, "Sorry it backfired and you’re now part of the kid-sitting crew cause you want to help your friend go on a date?"

Buck gently elbowed Tristan, "You could try not to sound quite so amused, Tris."

"I could. But I won't. I have to do something to make my husband proud,” Tristan said sweetly.

Buck rolled his eyes but couldn't help but laugh, "Of course, your husband would be proud of you mocking me."

"Teasing you," Tristan corrected immediately. He slid his hand up and ruffled Buck's hair, "Teasing with much love."

Buck squawked and pulled away, hurriedly patting his hair back into place. "Not the hair man!" 

"Show Nico the sweet little curls!" Tristan extended his arm as if to ruffle Buck's hair again causing Buck to take rapid steps back.

"He's seen the sweet little curls. Hell, he’s grabbed them," Buck muttered without giving it much thought. 

At Tristan's wide-eyed look, he hastily said, "He cuts my hair! So! Curls."

"Okay," Tristan said slowly. "Not that there's any harm in you two... friends with benefitting? Or whatever you young people are calling it these days. "

Buck raised his eyebrows at Tristan, “You're 35,” he said incredulously.

"And I've been with the same man, in love with the same man, ever since I understood what romantic love is. I’m a dinosaur," Tristan said primly making Buck laugh. 

"You adorable unicorn," Buck said and grabbed Tristan’s face smushing his cheeks. 

Tristan smiled and patted Buck's hands.

"We haven't you know," Buck said a moment later. “Friends with those kinda sexual benefits. We flirt. Man,” he sighed happily, “do we flirt. And we almost began sexting, kinda, sorta, but didn't get all the way there.”

There was no way he was admitting the kind of pictures they often sent each other. 

He looked at Tristan out of the corner of his eye, "Sexting is defined as the activity of sending text messages that are sexual in nature or intended to sexually excite someone. They may contain sexually explicit photographs, videos, voice messages, emoticons, and so on."

Tristan laughed and lightly shoved Buck’s arm, "I know what sexting is!"

Buck held up his hands, "Just making sure, you sweet innocent dinosaur."

Tristan rolled his eyes, "Sexting has got me and my wonderful husband through last year, thank you very much."

Buck scrunched his nose, “It’s always sweet to know how smushy in love you guys are. But this is kinda weird. It feels like I'm hearing about my parent's sex life." He cocked his head to the side, “Or maybe a sibling. Which is also very weird considering J and my history."

Tristan stared at him in open-mouthed surprise for a long moment before he burst out laughing.

"That is a happy sound," Nico commented as he joined them.

"Buck said hearing about Jason and my sex life is akin to hearing about his parent’s or sibling's sex life,” Tristan immediately shared.

Nico looked between them and then slowly nodded, "I see. It is sweet that you traumatize each other with such affection.”

Buck and Tristan grinned at each other. Nico tugged his phone out of his pocket and blew out a breath when he saw who was calling. He held up his finger and drew a circle in the air. At Buck’s nod, he walked a few steps away to take the call. Buck knew that gesture to mean Nico would be back momentarily.

"Spend some time together while I start feeding those four.” Tristan glanced at his watch, “I guess Karen and family aren’t coming."

Buck just shrugged. It had been surprising to find out that Tristan and Karen worked together. And that they considered themselves friends outside of work. He hadn’t been looking forward to spending time with Hen socially but had kept his thoughts to himself about it. He was disappointed for Tristan’s sake that his friend hadn’t shown up.

Buck spent a long moment just watching Tristan gain the children's attention. He smiled as they eagerly spoke over one another to tell him some story, each child open in their affection and regard for the man. To Buck, it was the mark of a good parent. It told him that Tristan had earned the trust of these sweet young souls and they in turn thrived under his genuine attention and affection. He admitted to himself that he himself had thrived under the man's attention from the very first time they met. Tristan had never felt like a rival for Jason's attention and love. He smiled and shook his head.

"You look very fond," a low voice murmured. "Thinking good thoughts about good people?"

Buck blinked and was startled to realize Nico had come up beside him without him realizing while he had been lost in his thoughts.

He smiled at his friend-crush-lust-love-Friendtine-Valentine. "Just thinking that Tristan is a wonderful human being."

Nico nodded, "He is. He makes me feel I can achieve anything I want. It felt strange and peaceful when I met him the first time at age seven and the feeling has only deepened."

Buck tilted his head with interest, "You met him that young?"

"My brother met Carmen at school when he studied here in the States. Through her, he met her cousin, Tristan. My parents brought me along in the summer to pick Tonio up after school and took all of us to Disney in Orlando.” He smiled his little smile at Buck, “There is a picture of Tristan and me on a children’s ride which he happily came with me on. Carmen and Tristan also visited us in the summer once. I have seen him as family for a long time.”

Nico's tone shifted into a fond one surprising Buck. The man's tone usually did not indicate his feelings. "Tristan and Carmen, it is interesting that both are so very..." he trailed off as if seeking the word he wanted, "family-oriented perhaps but that doesn't feel like the right word." 

He waved his hand, "There is something most safe and inviting about them. It has always felt to me they both radiate comfort, safety, love, and care." He smiled freely as he watched Tristan talking to Evan, "I was most pleased when the universe gifted Tristan the opportunity to be a father to his own and he accepted it. That he has made this wonderful family with Jason,” he looked at Buck, "with you, is among the loveliest discoveries of my life."

Buck blinked back tears, profoundly touched by Nico including him in Tristan and Jason's family. And in complete agreement about everything he had said about Tristan. 

"I agree. And for me, that's J. I've never encountered anyone who cares the way he does, who has touched my soul with his care the way he does." He looked at Nico, “I believe J is the greatest blessing of my life." he admitted softly.

Nico smiled slowly, "I am very pleased for you, Evan."

It was at that moment that Buck knew he was in love. Nicodemus Rossi was who he wanted for the last of his days if he would have him.

"People talk about finding the love of their life. Their person. But few talk about finding their people. Their chosen family. The people who will see them through life. Who make life better. Who make you feel so loved that you begin to understand your worth and your place in this world. Who teach you how amazing it is to love yourself,” Buck said softly, a tremble in his voice that had everything to do with what he had just realized. He swallowed hard and took a moment to tuck it away so he could enjoy the wonder of it later when Nico wasn’t staring right at him.

"Jason is your person," Nico said confidently.

Buck nodded, "Jason is my person. My chosen family. He showed me that I was worth loving exactly as I am. And that helped me grow into a man I can be proud of." He took a deep breath and turned to look at Nico, meeting his eyes. "I am very pleased life brought us together, Nico." He hoped Nico understood what he meant. The words he wasn't ready to say but felt with all his heart and soul.

Nico stared at him for a long moment. But Buck didn't feel nervous. He never felt anything but happy and content around Nico. Buck’s breath caught when Nico suddenly smiled widely, wide enough that Buck would swear his eyes were sparkling.

“I too share your pleasure, Evan. One could say the universe gifted me with you for I got you for my birthday.”

Buck melted at Nico’s perfect words. It told him pretty clearly that he was loved in return. In a perfect world, this would have been the perfect moment for them to kiss. The perfect romantic kiss. But maybe such moments belonged in fairy tales and had no place in reality. For they both knew they could not kiss. Not now. Not here around the children. They couldn't break the distance rule by kissing. 

Buck sighed, "Can I still say fuck 2020 over this?"

Nico waved his hand in an elegant gesture, "2021 deserves its due as well."

"Fuck 2021," Buck said with a pout and folded his arms across his chest so he wouldn't be tempted to touch Nico in front of everyone.

"Fuck 2021," Nico murmured.

Buck shivered as that delicious voice caressed his senses. They would get their timing right. He was sure of it. He could wait. They had all the time in the world.

Chapter Text

January 1, 2020 - Wednesday

[Contact created: Nicodemus Rossi 3C]

[Sent 23:30] Hey, this is Evan. 

[Contact created: Evan Buckley 3B Neighbor]

[Sent 23:42] Hello. Thank you for all your assistance moving in and advice regarding the area.
[Sent 23:45] And the brownies. It was the most delicious thing I have put in my mouth in some time

[Sent 23:46] Wow, what a compliment! 
[Sent 23:46] You're welcome. 

[Sent 23:46] You shall allow me to return the treat? 

[Sent 23:46] Sure!

[Sent 23:47] How do you feel about sharing a salad lunch this weekend?

[Sent 23:47] Sounds good to me. 
[Sent 23:47] I'm working Saturday so it would have to be on Sunday if that works for you?

[Sent 23:48] It does. Come over at 1300

[Sent 23:48] See you then!

—

January 3, 2020 - Friday

[Sent 15:20] Hello Evan, do you have any allergies I should know of? Or dislikes?

[Sent 16:01] Hey Nico. 
[Sent 16:01] Food wise? No. Rest of life wise, I don't LIKE beetroot but I eat it cause it's good for me.

[Sent 16:08] Noted

[Sent 16:09] Do you have any allergies or dislikes I should know about?

[Sent 16:10] I have never eaten beetroot. It looks odd and I was wary of it on first sight 

[Sent 16:11] Got it <thumbs up emoji>

[Contact edited: Nico [Nicodemus] Rossi 3C]

—

January 5, 2020 - Sunday

[Sent 20:22] I have to confess, when you said a salad lunch I was expecting to head home ready for a meal after.
[Sent 20:22] But that was just <weeping with joy emoji>

[Sent 20:25] I am pleased you enjoyed it. It is one of my favourites

[Sent 20:26] And thank you for the biscotti. And coffee. And the lasagna.  
[Sent 20:26] You just fed me all day.

[Sent 20:27] I am pleased you were available to share it with me. Lasagna tastes better when shared. You unpacked the cups and plates with me. You deserved to be the first guest in my home to utilize them

[Sent 20:27] <smiley face emoji>

—

January 8, 2020 - Wednesday

[Sent 19:01] Hey Nico, you mentioned wanting to try new foods. I'm at one of my favorite spots. If you haven't eaten shall I pick us up some burgers?

[Sent 19:05] Ciao Evan, that would be welcome. Thank you

[Sent 19:01] <thumbs up emoji> <smiley face emoji> See you in 20!

—

January 9, 2020 - Thursday

[Sent 08:49] Ciao Evan, It is not that I distrust you but I still did feel a need to look up last night’s burger from Gratitude.
[Sent 08:50] I like the name of the place. And I am still amazed I ate beetroot. And enjoyed it.
[Sent 08:50] Thank you for the experience

[Sent 09:35] It was genuinely my pleasure, Nico! 
[Sent 09:35] I get the beetroot thing but I am able to eat it when disguised so I figured you may be fine with it too.
[Sent 09:35] Hope it didn't feel like I was trying to trick you.

[Sent 10:01] You made a good decision. I did not feel deceived but taken care of.

[Sent 10:16] <smiley face emoji>

—

January 10, 2020 - Friday 

[Sent 07:31] Ciao Evan, do note - water pressure is at a low. Something something reason I did not wholly understand.

[Sent 08:08] Thanks for the heads up, Nico! I will shower at work after my shift.
[Sent 08:36] There was an issue in 7A. It was on the building chat. 
[Sent 08:45] Which I just checked and you aren't on. Can I ask the admin to add you?

[Sent 09:17] Yes. Thank you.

—

January 12, 2020 - Sunday

[Sent 11:35] <picture - a hot plate>
[Sent 11:35] I am attempting to build a sizzler. 90% chance of success.
[Sent 11:37] I have entirely too much for myself. Would you care to share a meal in two hours?

[Sent 11:39] That looks and sounds interesting! I'm game. 
[Sent 11:39] Do you need any help?

[Sent 11:40] I have it all in hand. See you at 1300

[Sent 11:40] <thumbs up emoji>

[Sent 11:43] You may arrive earlier if you are free and wish to… I dislike the term ‘hang out’ but fraternize, socialise, mingle do not fit the vibe I am attempting. 

[Sent 11:44] I’d love to come hang out/fraternize/socialize/mingle/chill/watch you cook, Nico <smiley face emoji>

—

January 13, 2020 - Monday

[Sent 13:46] I was telling my Captain about the sizzler and he couldn't picture it. 
[Sent 13:47] I'm so glad we took all those pictures and videos!
[Sent 13:47] Tell me the sauce you used again?

[Sent 14:00] It was labour intensive but delicious enough to be worth it.
[Sent 14:01] Pepper sauce. My family uses this sauce for steak sandwich/steak. Which it also pairs wonderfully with

[Sent 15:20] Bobby [my Cap] is asking if you'd mind sharing the sizzler and sauce recipe. He'd like to make it for his wife. 

[Sent 15:24] Certainly 
[Sent 15:31] I have extra sauce made. If he would like it is his

[Sent 15:33] That's so sweet of you! Thank you!
[Sent 15:34] Bobby says yes and thank you <smiley face emoji>

[Sent 15:35] Bobby is welcome
[Sent 15:36] Come by and pick it up any time after 1900  

[Sent 15:36] I’m working today. Can I pick it up tomorrow?

[Sent 15:37] Certainly. 

—

January 15, 2020 - Wednesday

[Sent 11:11] Hey Nico, there is a delivery for you. Cami down at the desk said it has to be refrigerated.
[Sent 11:20] I'm not snooping. I just happened to have walked in with the delivery guy. 

[Sent 11:24] The courgette! 
[Sent 11:24] Evan could I bother you to refrigerate them at yours for me? I won't be home until 2100 today 

[Sent 11:24] Of course! I just put the entire box in?

[Sent 11:25] No that would be unhygienic. I shall trouble you to open the box and refrigerate the contents

[Sent 11:26] Will do!
[Sent 11:26] You just need to call the front desk and authorize me to take your package for you.

[Sent 11:27] Many thanks, Evan. I will call Cami and let her know you may accept my package

[Sent 11:44] <picture - courgettes sitting on a shelf in the fridge>
[Sent 11:44] You're welcome, Nico <smiley face emoji>

—

January 16, 2020 - Thursday 

[Sent 07:56] <picture - courgette flowers stuffed with cheese drizzled with hot honey>
[Sent 07:56] What the courgette were utilised for. I stole you one to taste if you would like to

[Sent 09:05] Wow, that looks awesome! 
[Sent 09:05] Yes please I'd love to. 
[Sent 09:05] Tell me when you're home I'll come by?

[Sent 09:09] Anytime after 1800
[Sent 09:10] I also have rum

[Sent 9:11] <thumbs up emoji> <glasses clinking emoji>

—

January 17, 2020 - Friday

[Sent 14:02] So don't take this the wrong way and I don't mean to intrude
[Sent 14:02] But I've noticed you seen uncomfortable when complimented. 
[Sent 14:03] Is there something I should be aware of?

[Sent 14:22] A bad experience has made it difficult.
[Sent 14:25] I am working on unlearning what it taught me but it is slow going. 
[Sent 14:44] I apologize if I have made you uncomfortable with my lack of acceptance or come across as ungrateful. 
[Sent 14:45] Please know that is certainly not my intention.

[Sent 15:01] I'm so sorry you went through that <hug emoji>
[Sent 15:02] And I'm not uncomfortable at all. I only asked because I was worried I was making you uncomfortable.
[Sent 15:03] It's great that you're working on it! 
[Sent 15:03] If there's anything I can do to assist please don't hesitate to let me know Nico

[Draft saved 15:05 – message not sent] <hug emoji>
[Sent 15:08] I appreciate your words Evan
[Sent 15:11] My therapist currently has me working to try to accept one compliment a day. I have been succeeding

[Sent 15:12] That’s great <smiley face emoji>
[Sent 15:12] So who complimented you yesterday before I did?
[Sent 15:12] If you don’t mind me asking
[Sent 15:13] And it’s good to know you get complimented daily!

[Sent 15:14] My brother
[Sent 15:14] I bought him a cookie

[Sent 15:14] That’s sweet <smiley face emoji>

—

January 19, 2020 - Sunday

[Sent 08:08] I saw you jogging this morning. How were you not cold! 
[Sent 08:08] It's freezing!

[Sent 08:09] It is 12 degrees

[Sent 08:10] It's 55 degrees

[Sent 08:10] 12C

[Sent 08:11] 55F

[Sent 08:11] <gif - Jonathan Carnahan from The Mummy (1999) saying “Americans”>
[Sent 08:11] This time last year I was living in Milano. It was 6C/44F. 15C/55F is a beautiful spring weather

[Sent 08:12] You offered me hot buttered rum with the courgette.

[Sent 08:12] I like rum. And you looked like Elsa had been twirling around you

[Sent 08:13] Elsa?

[Sent 08:14] <gif - Disney’s Frozen>

[Sent 08:14] LMAO! How do you know who Elsa is?

[Sent 08:14] I watched Frozen. 

[Sent 08:14] Awwww! Are you a Disney fan?

[Sent 08:15] Yes. 
[Sent 08:15] Of the songs.
[Sent 08:15] And the parks.
[Sent 08:15] And the films.

[Sent 08:15] Please know it is taking everything in me not to squeal at how cute I find this Disney discovery to be.

[Sent 08:15] Noted.
[Sent 08:15] I am also able to play the songs on guitar & piano.

[Sent 08:16] <gif of person whining>
[Sent 08:16] Nico!!!

[Sent 08:17] <gif - evil laughter>

[Sent 08:17] <gif - pouting>

—

January 20, 2020 - Monday

[Sent 11:11] My brother bet me no meat free dairy free burger tastes good
[Sent 11:11] I would like to give winning my best go 
[Sent 11:11] Is a burger from Gratitude my best option?

[Sent 11:55] <gif - its time to win> 
[Sent 11:56] Yes, Gratitude would be your best option. I have tasted others and enjoyed them but gravitate back to it. 
[Sent 11:57] Get him dessert as well. The walnut chocolate chunk cookie is delicious!

[Sent 11:59] Thank you! 
[Sent 12:00] Yes, a cookie bonus point sounds good. 

—

January 21, 2020 - Tuesday 

[Sent 10:45] I won the bet. 
[Sent 10:46] Thank you for your assistance Evan
[Sent 10:47] I used my winnings to buy steak. Would you like to share dinner with me tonight? I feel half the winning does belong to you for introducing me to Gratitude.

[Sent 11:11] Aww you don’t have to share, Nico 
[Sent 11:11] But I’m happy you want to <smiley face emoji>
[Sent 11:12] I’d be happy to join you for dinner. I’ll make dessert

[Sent 11:14] Lovely. See you at ? Anytime post 1730

[Sent 11:15] 1800.

[Sent 11:15] <thumbs up emoji>

—

January 22, 2020 - Wednesday

[Sent 16:01] Have you been complimented today?

[Sent 16:30] No

[Sent 16:36] I'm still in foodie heaven thanks to last night’s steak. The herb garlic butter you made to go with it was so good I could go down on my knees for you. You are so talented, Nico!

[Draft saved 16:37 – message not sent] You drive me a tad crazy
[Draft saved 16:38 – message not sent] I would welcome you on your knees for me. Or have the opportunity to be on my knees for you
[Sent 16:40] Evan

[Sent 16:41] Nico <angel emoji>
[Sent 16:41] You can just reply with a <smiley face emoji> if it is easier

[Sent 16:44] Noted <smiley face emoji>

[Sent 16:44] <smiley face emoji>

[Sent 16:46] And you are cruel to say such things when I am at work

[Sent 16:47] I am at work too

[Sent 16:47] You work in loose pants

[Sent 16:47] You do know I don’t work in the clothes you see me leave or return in, right?

[Sent 16:48] I have seen enough fireman porn to have an idea of what you wear at work.

[Sent 16:49] Nico! <laugh crying emoji>
[Sent 16:49] <gif - sighing>
[Sent 16:49] You work in gorgeously fitted trousers. 

[Sent 16:50] I wish my brother was not sitting in front of my face.

[Sent 16:50] Oops. 
[Sent 16:50] But
[Sent 16:51] #noregrets
[Sent 16:51] I said what I said

[Sent 16:52] I did not mind it
[Sent 16:52] I will stop replying now before he takes any more interest in what I am doing

[Sent 16:52] Noted <smiley face emoji>

—

January 24, 2020 - Friday

[Sent 08:40] My abs hurt.
[Sent 08:40] This is your fault.

[Sent 09:01] I am to accept blame for inspiring you?
[Sent 09:01] What has this world come to 
[Sent 09:02] <smiley face emoji>

[Sent 9:05] The only reason I am not paying your abs and core strength a compliment right now is that I hope you receive a better one at some point in the day and accept it

[Sent 9:06] I deserve to be complimented for my abs and core. 

[Sent 9:07] You deserve to be complimented for more than your body

[Sent 9:08] I work hard on them.
[Sent 9:08] <picture - Nico shirtless holding his phone and looking sideways with his firm chest on display> 

[Sent 9:09] Jesus Nico
[Sent 9:010] <a row of fire emoji>
[Sent 9:10] I am so conflicted. 

[Sent 9:11] <gif - pouting>

[Sent 9:12] Ugh! FINE!
[Sent 9:12] You’re so fucking HOT, Nico! 
[Sent 9:12] I want to line pieces of chocolate on your abs
[Draft saved 9:12 – message not sent] And lick them up then lick you

[Draft saved 9:13 – message not sent] That is so evil to do this to me while I am at work
[Draft saved 9:14 – message not sent] Is it too soon to ask you out? I thought this be friends first was the correct way but you are too fucking adorable and hot Evan. But I do not want to repeat mistakes of the past. 
[Sent 9:15] <smiley face emoji>

[Sent 17:40] Do your abs allow you pizza?
[Sent 17:40] I have a craving 

[Sent 17:52] I am the boss of them
[Sent 17:53] I have not eaten American pizza as yet. Will it become a topic I will need to address in therapy?

[Sent 17:53] <gif - huh>
[Sent 17:53] Omg DON’T SAY IT!

[Sent 17:54] <gif - Americans>

[Sent 17:54] <gif - groans>

[Sent 17:55] <smiley face emoji>
[Sent 17:56] Would you like me to pick up the American pizza from a particular spot? I am leaving work in 15 

[Sent 17:56] Nah, it’s close by. I’ll order and hop to pick it up.
[Sent 17:56] Does 7pm work?

[Sent 17:57] 1900 <thumbs up emoji> We shall break open the truffle oil with it

—

January 25, 2020 - Saturday

[Sent 10:10] I have to mention that I find the way you wash your hands very interesting.
[Sent 10:10] So thorough. 
[Sent 10:10] The attention to detail is <chefs kiss emoji>

[Sent 10:16] I had a situation as a child with germs. 
[Sent 10:16] Life habit by this point
[Sent 10:17]  I haven't felt the need to modify it. I am happy my neurotic tendency impresses you

[Sent 10:18] I am trying very hard to not call you adorable over this as I realize that is not the right way. 

[Sent 10:19] I appreciate your care and control Evan
[Sent 10:19] Speaking of the germs, if you see someone coughing around you step away from them  
[Sent 10:19] With haste

[Sent 10:20] Is this about the news coming out of China?

[Sent 10:20] The news trickling out of Wuhan is not untrue. This is going to be massive

[Sent 10:21] We haven't been briefed. I asked Bobby this morning and word is still not officially coming to us.

[Sent 10:24] I have a friend who is from Hong Kong but has family in Wuhan. He said things are much worse than being reported. 
[Sent 10:25] This is going to have far reaching consequences Evan. 
[Sent 10:25] A situation.
[Sent 10:26] WHO did declare evidence has been found of human to human transmission.

[Sent 10:26] <thumbs up emoji> I will be cautious.

—

January 26, 2020 - Sunday

[Sent 10:10] Sorry in advance if you hear some screaming. 
[Sent 10:10] My best friend and his son are coming over for lunch and a we get loud with the ps4.

[Sent 10:24] Noted

[Sent 10:28] If you're free feel free to come over
[Sent 10:28] For lunch or just to hang out/fraternize/socialize/mingle/chill
[Sent 10:28] Meet some new people
[Sent 10:29] It's just my friend Eddie and his son Christopher, the world's sweetest 8 year old
[Sent 10:29] I'm making mac and cheese

[Sent 10:32] Thank you for the invite. It is tempting
[Sent 10:32] But I have plans with my SIL
[Sent 10:33] She will accept no excuses
[Sent 10:33] Enjoy your day
[Sent 10:40] I would not refuse if you save me a taste of your mac and cheese. I don't believe I have ever eaten it before

[Sent 10:41] Dude
[Sent 10:41] How!
[Sent 10:41] I am honored you want my mac and cheese to be the first one that graces taste buds
[Sent 10:41] Saving you a portion <smiley face emoji>

[Sent 10:42] Thank you Evan
[Sent 10:42] My taste buds are excited already to taste and swallow you
[Sent 10:42] Your mac and cheese

[Sent 10:43] Nico
[Sent 10:43] <gif - person whining>

[Sent 10:44] <gif - angel smile>

—

January 27, 2020 - Monday

[Sent 13:11] <picture - Nico's blissed out face, eyes closed, box of mac and cheese in front of him>
[Sent 13:12] My brother took this
[Sent 13:12] He said to mention to you your mac and cheese is 'divine'

[Sent 14:40] <smiley face emoji>
[Sent 14:40] I am in awe to have inspired such a reaction out of you! <smiling hearts emoji> 
[Sent 14:41] Tell your brother I'm happy he enjoyed it! 
[Sent 14:41] I would have given you a bigger portion if I knew you were sharing
[Sent 14:41] Usually your food is portioned

[Sent 14:43] I understood you portioned the portion for me
[Sent 14:43] But I did not mind sharing
[Sent 14:44] Antonio asked if you take orders. A little one in his life would love this

[Sent 14:45] I haven't before but I am happy to make one for his little one <smiley face emoji> Let me know when

[Sent 14:46] For the weekend? Whichever day is convenient to you. He will plan his luncheon invite accordingly

[Sent 14:47] Sure! For how many people? I'm off on Saturday and Sunday this week.

[Sent 14:50] 5 for Saturday

[Sent 14:51] Done <smiley face emoji> 
[Sent 14:51] I'll give it to you by 11am?

[Sent 14:52] That is acceptable. Thank you Evan

[Sent 14:52] You're welcome, Nico!

[Draft saved 20:53 – message not sent] Evan, I am leaving on a trip today. Can we have a meal together when I return?

—

January 28, 2020 - Tuesday

[Sent 17:50] Hey Nico, I'm picking up North Indian food for dinner. You had mentioned wanting to try it.
[Sent 17:50] Wanna share?

—

January 29, 2020 - Wednesday 

[Sent 6:11] Apologies for the late reply Evan. I am away for work. I hope you enjoyed your meal

[Sent 22:13] <picture - palak paneer and garlic naan>
[Sent 22:13] It was delicious! 

[Sent 6:13] Now I am upset I missed out again. I must rectify as soon as I am back.
[Sent 6:14] You will tell me what to order?
[Sent 6:14] Or perhaps you would like to join me for a meal if you do not mind eating it again so soon?

[Sent 22:15] I'll walk you through the menu and eat it with you <smiley face emoji>

[Sent 06:16] <smiley face emoji>
[Sent 06:17] <picture - Nico’s reflection in a window with The London Eye recognizable in the background>

[Sent 22:17] You’re in London. That’s quite cool.
[Sent 22:17] When did you leave?

[Sent 6:17] Monday night. It is a sudden trip. I will return on 3 Feb

[Sent 22:18] Ah ok. Have a good trip.

[Sent 6:18] Thank you

[Sent 22:18] Work or pleasure?
[Sent 22:20] Unless I'm overstepping then ignore that

[Sent 6:20] Work
[Draft saved 06:20 – message not sent] And you are not overstepping

[Sent 22:21] Have you been there before?

[Sent 6:21] Yes. Several times. I go to Milano on Friday to see family

[Sent 22:22] That's nice <smiley face emoji>
[Sent 22:22 ] Try and eat some interesting or new to you food there?

[Sent 6:23] I shall try

[Sent 22:23] I need to get into bed now. Have a good day!

[Sent 6:23] Thank you. May sleep welcome you with ease

[Sent 22:24] <smiley face emoji>

—

January 31, 2020 - Friday

[Sent 15:15] Ciao Evan, my brother will have the mac and cheese picked up tomorrow at 11. You can leave it at reception for pick up if that is convenient to you or his pick up person will come to your door if you are comfortable with that

[Sent 6:15] Hey Nico, that’s fine. I’ll have it ready and down for pick up at 11am.

[Sent 15:16] Thank you 

[Sent 6:16] You’re welcome! 

[Sent 13:00] Did you hear? WHO has reached a consensus that the situation now constitutes a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.
[Sent 13:01] The Novel Coronavirus Outbreak (2019-nCoV) is now a PHEIC.

[Sent 22:05] I am just reading about it
[Sent 22:05] Not a pleasurable topic to be spending time on in bed 
[Sent 22:06] <gif - FRIENDS TV show, “Welcome to the real world. It sucks. You’re gonna love it”> 

[Sent 13:07] I would have loved to take your mind off it onto more pleasurable topics

[Sent 22:07] I sense a but coming instead of a butt

[Sent 13:08] <gif - sighing>
[Sent 13:08] Alas I am at work

[Sent 22:09] <gif - sighing>
[Sent 22:10] I suppose there is always fireman porn

[Sent 13:11] <gif - licking lips>

[Sent 22:12] <gif - blowing a kiss> 
[Sent 22:12] Have a good day Evan

[Sent 13:12]  <smiley face emoji>
[Sent 13:12] Goodnight Nico

Chapter Text

“Fuck!” Buck hissed as he poked the needle into his finger again as it slipped out of his grip.

“May I ask why you are poking yourself with a needle? Surely there are better ways to self-pleasure in semi-public.”

"Nico!" Buck took a deep breath, let go of his irritation, and smiled at the handsome man watching him from his balcony door. "You can come closer; I don't bite," he teased. He took in his attire of black pants and a white shirt that was still crisp and crease free at the end of the day and wondered how the man still managed to look so put together at the end of his work day.

“No, but you may poke," Nico smirked, making Buck flush. He gamely approached the grill and dropped a cushion on the floor before smoothly settling himself down to sit.

Buck waved his hands at the t-shirts and shirts on the floor around him. “I’ve put off fixing loose and broken buttons and rips for so long that I'm running short of clothes." He waved his hand up, “With the sun setting I'm running out of time and figured it would be easier to do this in the natural light."

Nico's eyes flicked from Bucks to the controlled chaos around him. "I shall watch and supervise, yes? We cannot have LAFD's finest injured by the way of poking."

Buck shivered at the way Nico sounded. At the way he made innocent words made dirty dirty thoughts dance across Buck’s mind. He swallowed hard and licked his dry lips. "Yeah," he croaked. He cleared his throat and once again tried to carefully push the thread into the eye of the needle.

"Fuuuck!" He moaned in disappointment as the thread went in and promptly slid back out when he tried to catch the other end.

"Would you like some assistance? As entertaining as I feel this will be for me as it continues I would not want you stewing in your frustration.”

Buck sighed heavily and nodded. "Yes please." He extended his hand and held the needle out to Nico. The expression on Nico's face told him the way he had done it was not the Nico way of doing it.

Nico delicately accepted the needle and brought it close to examine it. Buck was baffled when Nico easily wove the needle through his shirt sleeve. 

“I shall be back momentarily,” Nico said as he stood up and headed back into his apartment.

Buck shrugged and rested back. He’d wait around as long as the man wanted since he was offering to help him and because he just wanted to. He enjoyed their time together. He smiled when Nico returned with a bag and glass of water. He loved how the man was always on point with his hydration needs.

Nico sat back down and unrolled the bag, carefully laying it open. Buck leaned in and took in the neat wheel containing needles, and rows of different colored threads. 

“What is this?” Buck asked, surprised.

“This is how one mends clothing, Evan,” Nico said calmly. He spun the wheel and let a needle drop into his palm. 

“Careful!” Buck watched in open-mouthed surprise as the needle slid smoothly out to rest in Nico’s palm instead of poking him. “You didn’t get poked,” he said, his voice filled with awe.

Hazel eyes flicked up and met Buck’s, “I only get poked when I allow it.”

Buck dug his teeth into his lower lip, that little smile on Nico’s face did such delicious things to him. “I’ll remember that,” he said huskily.

Nico dipped his head in acknowledgment. He held the needle up and extended his arm to Buck. “You see the eye is longer?”

“Yeah,” Buck said in wonderment. “I didn’t know these existed! The YouTube tutorial I watched had the same little eye so I ordered the same.”

Nico spent a moment just looking at him. “Is this your first time doing the mending?”

“Mending?” Buck asked.

Nico moved the needle to demonstrate a sewing motion. “The mending of clothing,” he said slowly as he withdrew his arm.

“Uh, yeah.”

“You have made it into your twenties without the requirement for mending coming up? That is a feat, Evan.”

Buck winced. “Well, no. But when I lived with roommates I bartered another chore for one of them if he would do my mending for me.”

Nico looked from Buck to the clothing all around him, then back at Buck. “You feel comfortable and ready to do this for your clothes?”

Buck immediately shook his head, “No. But it has to be done and I don’t want to spend money on having it done outside.”

Nico nodded. “Gather all your clothing and come over. I shall help you.”

“No, Nico! It’s okay, I don’t want to take up your time, your free time with my work,” Buck protested even though he really wanted to spend more time with Nico. He wanted to spend all his time with Nico. Really, the speed at which he had developed a crush on his neighbor was all kinds of ridiculous. His first crush since he was a teenager!

“You would not wish to spend time with me?”

“No! I mean yes!” He shook his head, “I DO want to spend time with you!” Smooth . Buck mentally facepalmed himself. 

Nico crooked his finger at Buck. “Come here.”

It sounded more like a demand than a request and Buck was all for it. He quickly stacked his clothes up and stood up. “See you in a second!” He wasn’t a hundred percent sure but he thought he heard Nico mutter, Americans as he rushed inside.

An hour later they had relocated inside and were settled on Nico’s couch. Buck finished fixing the button on his shirt and smoothened it down. He felt accomplished. Nico had shown him how to fix his shirt buttons and had taken over fixing the rips in Buck’s t-shirts and sweatshirt. 

Buck glanced at Nico efficiently mending the rip in the collar of his sweatshirt. He loved that word. It sounded so much nicer than stitch . He decided to ask all his questions and satisfy his curiosity satisfied.

“Why do you refer to it as mending and not stitching?”

“It is the way, no? We are mending this clothing by use of stitching.”

Buck turned and folded his right leg on the couch so he could settle in and observe Nico. “So why not just say we are stitching?”

Nico glanced at him. “To mend is to fix, no?” At Buck’s nod, he continued, “We mend what is undone or broken. And the method chosen to do the mending is the stitching. Rammendo e cuciture .” He lifted one shoulder in a negligent shrug, “I do not make the English language rules, my friend.”

“You don’t speak American English,” Buck pointed out slowly. Nico messaged him using British English spellings. He was fascinated when Nico visibly shuddered delicately. He was seriously the most restrained and precise Italian Buck had come across in his life.

“ Oh Dio, no .” Nico continued moving the needle smoothly as he spoke. “I would say no offense meant but that would be a lie. Full offense meant, I speak, as my tutor would say, Queen’s English. The wanna, gonna, is beyond me. And do not get me started on the spellings. And do not ever get me started on your imperial system of measurement. I will not be converted.”

Buck pressed his lips together, utterly charmed and amused and fascinated by Nico’s little rant. And the way his accent was stronger when he seemed to get snippy about things. “You are such a snob!” he burst out, unable to hold in his glee.

Nico glanced at him, “I am. And and lacking in shame regarding it.”

Buck grinned, “It’s cute.” And hot!

“I am pleased you find my ways to be cute.” 

Buck could see Nico’s little smile and wanted to coo at how damn cute he was. He found Nico’s awareness and acceptance of himself to be a major turn-on. Add to that how utterly gorgeous the man was, how smart and talented, well he was the whole package. He was sure that within another month he was going to ask Nico out, cause he was totally sure he was reading him right, and date the heck out of this man.

Chapter Text

Friday 

[Sent 05:09] Hey Nico, just fyi I'm going to stay at J's for the next four days and will go to work from there.

[Sent 05:011] Thank you for letting me know. Have a good time Evan with Evan
[Sent 05:11] <smiley face emoji>

[Sent 05:12] <smiley face emoji>

—

Buck stared at his phone, just a little text smiley face from Nico made him happy.

"You're doing it again."

Buck looked away from his phone up at Eddie, "What now?"

"Staring sappily at your phone," Eddie said with a smirk.

Buck made a face at him. He turned his phone to allow Eddie to read the screen. 

Eddie's face softened, "This two Evan's thing is never going to get old. Or be cute."

"Right?" Buck grinned.

“How's it been since Valentine's?" Eddie asked softly. "Which, again I am extremely sorry Christopher turned your date into a group event.”

Buck smiled and shook his head, "Don't worry about it, Eddie. I didn't mind. And he definitely didn't mind."

Eddie sighed, "I don't know what I was thinking with that."

Buck squeezed Eddie's shoulder, "You were maybe lonely? Maybe a familiar face struck something in you?" He shrugged, "The important thing is that you were there for Chris, and the party went off well. The kids and adults came away happy with the socialization. And you got to go on a date too.” He shrugged, “And you realized Ana was maybe a tiny bit manipulative to get you into her home, so you’re aware of that as you date. Which you can without involving Chris in it.” He smirked, “And hey," he lightened his tone, "if math porn and teacher roleplay is your thing, go for it. No judgment, bud," he teased.

Eddie nudged him with his elbow, "You are such an asshole," he grumped. "It's cute you found the whole math thing horrifying but when Nico is mental mathing you sit there like it's the best kinda porn."

Buck shrugged and winked, "I like what I like, and what I like is Nico."

"Nico mental mathing," Eddie prompted.

"Nico mental mathing, Nico lounging in the sunshine like a sleek jungle cat, Nico wearing a four-hundred-dollar shirt and cooking, Nico holding my godson upside down and arguing with him, Nico being an utter snob about American chocolates, Nico being a snob in general about so much.” He sighed dreamily, "I like Nico. Nico being Nico.”

If his like sounded like love, well, there was nothing he could do about it. There was nothing he cared to do about it.

Eddie smiled, "You are so gone.”

"Did I hear something about math porn?" Chimney asked as he and Hen joined them on the couch.

Eddie widened his eyes at Buck. Buck understood it to mean that he did NOT want to discuss Ana and his date with them. Or Christopher ran away from home in an Uber straight to Buck's.

"I've been texting with someone and it turned into a math porn thing," Buck said breezily to cover up for Eddie.

"Math porn thing?" Hen asked incredulously. 

"Is that like sexting?" Carters asked them as he walked by.

Buck laughed and pointed at the man.

"You're sexting with people?"

Buck looked at Hen. Her expression and tone reflected some distaste and a lot of judgment. 'What else is new there?' he thought.

"Person. Singular,” he said easily, unwilling to accept the judgment she seemed ready to dole out.

"But why?" Hen asked.

"I'm single. So why not? It's not like I'm going to go out and hook up with someone in a pandemic," Buck said in a relaxed tone. What he wanted to tell her was to mind her own business.

"He's right, Hen," Chimney chimed in. "As long as he's not bringing rando chicks home, it's all good." He looked at Buck, “And no rando chicks around my baby,” he said sternly.

There was a shocked silence. Buck had wondered how long Howard Han’s happiness over being a dad would last. And it was nice to see him happy and not his usual snarky self. Chimney seemed to be an enthusiastic, happy father, but his excitement over ‘Uncle Buck' had fizzled out already.

"Who I bring into my own home is my business," Buck said evenly. "And if Albert wasn't laid up recovering, it seems you'd have to worry about your brother on that front. It's his habit to bring random chicks into other people’s homes and proceed to bang them on other people's couches."

"Buck!" Hen said sharply.

Buck raised his eyebrows at her, then shifted his gaze to Chimney, "Is anything I've said a lie?”

"No," Chimney said grudgingly.

Buck rolled his eyes.

"Still,” Hen insisted, “Albert is recovering from a terrible accident. There’s no need to talk about him in this manner."

Buck laughed at her scolding tone. "I nearly died. Three times in one year. And had to fight for my job. You sure as hell have no problem talking trash about me after all I have been through. So let's not do this or we're going to have a fight." He kept his tone non-confrontational but firm.

Eddie slung his arm around Buck’s shoulders, "I'm on team Buck if we're fighting.” 

"What?" Hen looked between them in shock.

Buck patted Eddie's arm, “I had no doubt about it, bud, but thanks for confirming.”

"C shift is in! A-shift start moving out," Bobby called out.

Buck and Eddie stood up together as one and began moving toward the stairs to head down. A shift would clear the station completely before C would enter. 80% of A-shift had been vaccinated with at least the first dose, so they had continued with protocols until they reached 100%. Or more likely until 100% of the 118 were vaccinated.

"That was… a lot," Eddie said softly after they had grabbed their bags and walked out.

"He shouldn't have made that comment, and you know it. Guess he's still bitter I didn’t let Albert stay. And she just needs to stop with the damn judgment. Both behave as if they are virtues of purity when we both know how they've conducted themselves in the past," Buck kept his tone soft. 

Unlike others, he didn't want to air out Chimney and Hen’s private business and embarrass them.

Eddie sighed, "Agreed. She probably had another argument at home. It reflects at work."

Buck nodded. He was happy for Chimney and Maddie, he was happy for Hen enrolling in medical school, but there was no way he was being anyone's punching bag.

"Have a good time with the family," Eddie said.

"Thanks," Buck said brightly. “We’re still on for the beach tomorrow, right?”

“Yup. Christopher is very excited for time in the outdoors with Evan. I already got a list of snacks to bring from Tristan.”

“Awesome. See you!” Buck waved and got into his car.

—

As he drove away, he reflected on the past twelve days since Valentine’s Day. Or well, pre-Valentine’s Day at Eddie’s. He knew something had changed since that week between him and Nico. While they hadn’t had much in-person time together, when they did have it, it now had an added layer of comfort and intimacy to it. 

Even at the end of the picnic when Nico was leaving, Buck had drawn him into a firm hug and all Nico had done was hug back tighter and hold on for a long moment with his face tucked against Buck’s neck.

He was also worried for his… friend. He tagged on a mental reminder to himself that he really needed a new title for Nico. An upgrade. Because referring to him as his friend just no longer worked for him. My love was a term that repeatedly came to mind, and he gently nudged it away as it made him blush each time it happened. While it felt right and resonated beautifully within his soul, it was a lot, and he didn’t want to jump at Nico with it. 

He shook his head. He was worried about Nico, who had been unusually tired the past week and had had a sudden bout of surprising what seemed like allergic reactions. Surprising in that Nico said he did not know he was allergic to anything. But each time he walked through the hallways and especially the lobby of their building, he felt ‘not right’ as he had described it. Itchy eyes and sneezing. Those sounded like allergies to Buck.

Buck smiled as he drove through the gates of The Towers, the luxury apartment complex Tristan, Jason, and Evan lived in. And Carmen and Antonio Rossi, he mentally added. Nico’s brother and sister-in-law being J’s neighbors, Carmen being related to Tristan, it had all just worked out in his favor by bringing more friendly people into his life.

He glanced at the time and debated calling Nico for a little chat for a few minutes as he parked and made his way up. He didn’t want to disturb Nico during his day. Shaking his head, he decided to stop second-guessing himself and just call. If Nico was busy, he’d send his call to voicemail with no hard feelings on either of their parts. He tapped on his favorites and called Nico.

“ Ciao , Evan.”

“ Ciao , Nico,” Buck said, a smile on his face just hearing Nico’s voice. “I’m not disturbing you, am I?”

“You know I would not answer if it were an issue. Have you reached T2?”

“I know, I know. I still like asking. Yes, I’m just parking. How are you feeling?”

“The lethargy persists. My throat too feels strange. And I have begun sneezing again. I did check if anything had been changed, and Amy, the maintenance manager, said they had a new citrus disinfectant. My mama said I had such reaction to citrus as a child, but it passed as I grew.”

“Hmmm,” Buck hummed, “feverish?” He pulled into the assigned parking spot for the Richardson’s guests and turned off his car.

“I do not feel so,” Nico said slowly.

“That sounds like an allergy then. Have you taken an antihistamine?” 

“I, too, feel the culprit is an allergy.” Nico yawned. “Excuse me. I do not own antihistamine.”

“Oh. Right. Okay. If you go into my apartment, you’ll find Claritin in the drawer where I keep my First Aid box. You should take one. And take the bottle with you. It’s the non-drowsy kind, but it may send you off to sleep since you’re already tired.”

There was a moment of silence before Nico spoke. “Are you certain you wish me to go rummage through your personal space?” 

“I am absolutely certain I am comfortable with you in every personal space of mine, Nico,” Buck said carefully.

There was another moment of silence before Nico sighed, “You are quite charming, Evan.”

Buck smiled, “Only for you.”

“All mine,” Nico said softly. 

Buck frowned as the sound was suddenly muffled, as Nico began coughing on the other end. “Baby, are you okay?” He winced when he realized what he’d said and hoped Nico hadn’t heard him.

Nico cleared his throat. “I will go help myself to the medicine. Please repeat the name.”

“Claritin. It’s a small blue bottle with a white lid. I can send you a picture of it,” Buck offered quickly.

“Thank you, I googled. How often may I take it?”

“You can take one every twenty-four hours. Let me know you’ve taken it and how you feel after? You may need a stronger, fast-acting one instead of this.”

“I shall text.”

“Eat something. Drink something, too. Not coffee. If you want, I have juice in my fridge.” Buck got out of the car and grabbed his bag as he heard Nico moving around.

“I have been drinking the things. I shall eat too.”

Buck locked his car and walked toward the exit for the parking level. “Do you have a busy day on?”

“Busy enough considering the work is piling with me operating at less than optimum.”

Buck laughed, “You make yourself sound like a robot.”

“I would make for a splendid robot,” Nico said in his usual flat tone.

“You’d make for a splendid everything,” Buck said softly.

“You are biased.”

“So?” Buck challenged.

“Merely an observation, Evan. I am pleased by your bias toward me.”

Buck smiled as he pressed his access band against the scanner, and it flashed ‘EB30D’. Having his initials in the access list instead of a generic ‘guest’ warmed him. He was part of this family.

“I am pleased by your pleasure, Nico,” Buck said sweetly. He waited by the elevators, not wanting to step in and potentially lose network until he was done talking to Nico.

“I have found it. I shall take one now with a bite to eat."

“Okay. Message me. Later. Whenever. We’re going to the beach tomorrow with Eddie and Chris, if you want to join us?” 

“I shall let you know. Thank you.”

“Okay,” Buck said softly. He waited for Nico to disconnect. He heard a door shut and another open and shut. He figured Nico was now back in his apartment. “Nico?” he said after more than ten seconds had gone by. 

“Yes, Evan?”

“Aren’t you going to hang up?”

“There is nothing I am holding I can hang up.”

Buck grinned. “Disconnect then.”

“You disconnect,” Nico replied immediately.

“You first,” Buck said and pressed his lips together, amused beyond belief.

“You. We do not have a Rachel to disconnect for us,” Nico said blandly.

Buck laughed, “And they did use the word hang up even though there was no device that had to be hung up.” They had been binge-watching the TV show Friends together, and the ‘hang up’ conversation had made Nico’s sense of literal twitch. Which had then led to him muttering about how strange the English language was.

“You disconnect, or I shall watch the rest without you.”

Buck’s mouth dropped open in surprise. “You’re threatening me?” he demanded.

“Yes.”

Buck pouted, “Mean.”

“One, I never claimed nice. Two, you love my mean.”

Buck grinned freely since Eddie wasn’t around to see it and tease him, “I do love your mean.” I love you. He raised his eyebrows at the soft huff and sigh that came through. “What are you doing?” he asked, intrigued.

“Stripping.”

Buck choked on his breath and coughed to clear his throat. “When I’m not there to see it?” He winced. “Um, I mean, excuse me?”

“I seek a nap. I cannot nap in my work clothes.”

“You sleep naked, but you have napping clothes,” Buck said slowly.

“I do if I am napping outdoors. Or on the couch. I also have sleeping clothes.”

“ Are you planning to nap outdoors?” Buck asked.

“No.”

“On the couch?”

“No.”

Buck pinched the bridge of his nose and squeezed his eyes shut as images of Nico’s bare chest and strong thighs flashed through his head. “Nico,” he whined as he heard a rustling sound.

“Evan.”

Nico’s voice sounded sweet. And amused. That had been another discovery. Nico didn’t always speak in his flat tone. He just controlled how he spoke most of the time.

Buck sighed, “Don’t forget to take the pill.”

“Yes, sir, Mr. Buckley.”

Buck licked his lips. His man’s voice was made for porn. Or to just talk. About anything. He forced himself to stop thinking with his dick as he shifted and forced his brain and concern back into play.

“You said you’d eat,” he reminded Nico.

Nico yawned. "In some time. I am quite tired.”

“Text me when you wake up and eat so I know you did it,” Buck said sternly.

“Yes, sir.”

Buck pressed his lips together, surprised at how much he liked the idea of Nico teasing him with this. “Sleep well, Nicodemus,” he whispered and disconnected the phone.

He shook his head and pulled his mask off his wrist, putting it on his face before he got into the elevator and scanned his access band against the elevator scanner. EB30D. He blinked as his phone buzzed and saw a message from Nico.

[Sent 09:29] <smiley face emoji>

[Sent 09:29] <hug emoji><kiss emoji>

He grinned and forced himself to put his phone away in his pocket so that he didn’t reply to any further messages.

—

Buck looked around as he always did when he walked out of the elevator. Floor 30 had lounge space for the floor between the apartments. He knew two of the apartments on this floor were larger than Tristan and J’s. Though he couldn’t imagine what larger than theirs could be like. The place screamed elegant wealth, and it still boggled his mind that Tristan’s family came from this sort of money that he could afford a place like this. Heck, he also earned enough at his job to maintain a place like this.

Shaking his head, he walked up to 30D and knocked on the door before tapping his band to unlock it.

He took off his shoes, lined them up in the corner, and left his bag in the entryway to grab his things out of later. Moving to the bathroom across from the door, he took off his mask and put it in his pocket, then washed his hands thoroughly before making his way further into the apartment.

“Still knocking,” Tristan observed from where he was standing in the currently open-plan kitchen. 

Buck rolled his eyes, “I am not walking into your home unannounced, Tris.” He glanced at the slim panels that he knew could be pulled out to close off the kitchen. He loved this place.

Tristan rolled his eyes right back. “There’s fruit cut in the fridge. Help yourself to coffee. I’ll have brunch on the table in a minute.”

“Great timing, I’m starving,” Buck said as he grabbed the bowl of fruit from the fridge and sat down.

“It would have been a few minutes, but you took longer to get up here than I expected.”

Buck smiled, “I was talking to Nico.”

Tristan smiled and set a plate down in front of Buck. He took in the portion of baked beans, an omelette, a slice of sourdough toast, roasted mushrooms, sliced avocado, and spinach. 

“Wow, Tris, this looks amazing! Thank you. You really didn’t have to go through all this effort.”

“It was no problem at all. Carmen made the baked beans, I made the mushrooms. Tonio was craving a fry-up.”

Buck smiled, “It’s so nice that you guys work so well together.”

“Family,” Tristan said softly. “At this point, I don’t know what we’d do without each other. We’re probably a tad codependent thanks to 2020. I can’t find it in myself to care.”

Buck nodded. Tristan’s family, all of them, were awesome. “Ev in class?” he glanced around the living area.

“Yeah. I put him in his bedroom so we didn’t have to whisper. He’s super excited you’re here. So expect to be clung to the entire time. Maybe you’ll finally learn how to carve out some space for yourself,” Tristan teased.

Buck gave him a look like he couldn’t believe what he was hearing, “Why would I want space from my awesome godson?”

Tristan smirked as he put together another plate, “Oh, I don’t know, to get some private time to chit-chat and flirt with Nico maybe?”

And Buck tried, but couldn’t control the way he blushed at that. He laughed and shook his head, “Point.”

“You should consider using a nickname or something for him if you don’t want Evan finding out,” Jason said as he joined them.

“That’s a good point. Ev’s not nosy, but he’s been picking up on everything we say if we’re not careful.” Tristan set a plate down next to Buck.

“Thanks, sweetheart,” Jason said appreciatively as he slid onto a chair beside Buck. He pressed his shoulder against Buck’s, “Hey.”

Buck smiled and pressed his shoulder back against Jason’s. “Hey. I hate that I’m going to be here doing fun stuff with Ev, and you’ll be at work.”

Jason sighed and dropped his head briefly to rest on Buck’s shoulder. “Nothing has opened up on A-shift. I’m still on the waitlist. So we’ll just have to divide and conquer Evan’s enjoyment.”

Buck sighed and settled down to eat.

“I don’t mind it,” Tristan said carefully. He shrugged when they looked at him. “It would be great for all of us to be together. But this way Ev’s still getting time with both of you. He doesn’t have to worry about splitting his attention.”

“Your ability to spin a situation into the best case scenario is never not going to be delightful, babe,” Jason said warmly.

Tristan smiled and leaned in, pressing a firm kiss against Jason’s mouth.

“Kissing? Really?” Buck asked even as he smiled at how sweet they were.

“I got my second shot,” Jason pointed out.

“Yeah, but it just feels too soon,” Buck admitted softly.

“Sooo,” Jason exchanged a glance with Tristan, “I don’t have to overstep and ask if you and YouKnowWho have kissed since you just answered that.”

Buck nudged Jason gently, “No, Voldemort and I haven’t kissed,” he imitated Nico’s flat tone perfectly.

Jason choked and started coughing as he laughed. Buck quickly patted his back and told himself not to apologize while Tristan laughed loudly, unrestrained in his joy.

“Definitely don’t call him Voldemort. Evan will be all up in that,” Jason wheezed out. 

Tristan snickered and ran his fingers through Jason’s hair, “There is no lie there.” He patted Jason’s cheek, “Eat, darling.”

Buck shook his head as he chewed. Jason and Tristan were definitely that couple. One who always had a sweet term of endearment for the other. And it suited them. 

“What about RMF?” Buck asked slowly. 

“You know about RMF,” Tristan said with raised eyebrows.

“Yeah.” Buck shrugged, “He said it’s a family joke and he doesn’t deny it.”

Tristan and Jason exchanged looks and indulged in the kind of non-verbal communication Buck enjoyed watching between people who knew each other well and communicated beautifully.

“That should work. Evan will eventually catch on, but there’s not much we can do about that,” Jason said.

“Yeah, not much you can do about your son being an above-average, emotionally secure smarty pants,” Buck teased.

They laughed and continued eating and planning Buck’s time off with them.

“I’m going to log into work,” Tristan said a couple of minutes later. “There’s Thai curry for lunch. Evan and Ev’s is in the big glass container. Jase, you’ll just have to pop in on Ev every thirty minutes if he’s staying in his room or make him come out here.”

“I’ll pop in on him every thirty minutes,” Jason acknowledged. “Should I disturb you for lunch?”

Tristan nodded, “Perfect.” He pressed a kiss against Jason’s brow, “I’ll help myself to lunch when I take a break.”

Once they were alone, Jason gently pressed his shoulder against Buck’s. “It was really sweet of you to give up your Valentine’s Day plans for the kids. Was RMF disappointed or amused?” he asked softly.

Buck relaxed against Jason. “It’s so interesting that you mention amused as an option, cause that’s what he was - amused. He looked at me like I was a puppy he’d take home. And he’s a cat person.”

There was a moment of silence where Jason was still against him, then his shoulders started shaking. Buck grinned as Jason leaned down and dropped his head on his arm on the table in silent laughter.

Jason turned his head and looked up at Buck, “You totally are a puppy.”

Buck rolled his eyes, “Yeah, yeah. Apparently, Tristan is a golden retriever in human form, and I’m a puppy cause you have a type, J.”

Jason pressed his forehead to his arm, “I do have a type,” he said as he laughed. He sighed as he sat up and looked at Buck. “I do have a type, exceptionally kind and good men.” He smiled and patted Buck’s cheek as Buck blushed with pleasure.

“You always know what to say,” Buck said softly.

Jason patted Buck’s cheek again, “I feel confident in saying that RMF would describe you the same way, Ev.” 

Buck smiled and leaned in, pressing his forehead briefly against Jason’s.

“You don’t want to take advantage of your four off to get in a date?” Jason asked as they began clearing their dishes.

“I was actually thinking that maybe you guys want to get in an early date night tonight or one of the nights I’m here?” Buck offered. From the way Jason’s eyes widened, he knew he had made the right decision by offering.

“That would actually be great. If we do date night tonight, then you can plan a date night on my off, and Tris can get some alone time too,” Jason mused.

“Oh no, hey,” Buck protested, “I don’t want any time off from Evan. I want all my four with him as promised. RMF and I haven’t discussed anything, and I don’t think he’s up for a date right now anyway. He’s had an allergic reaction set in to some new disinfectant they’ve been using in the communal areas of our building. And he’s been working his odd time zones again, which means his sleep pattern is all over the place. We were watching a movie the other day, and he just fell asleep.”

Jason frowned at him, “He does tend to just take his odd power naps.”

Buck shook his head, “No, not a nap. He slept. For a solid two hours. Woke up just enough for me to tuck him into the couch and then slept through.”

“If he has a sudden allergy raging through him, the tiredness is normal. Has he taken anything for it, though?” 

Buck nodded, “He took a Claritin and went right to bed a bit ago. I told him to text when he wakes up from it.”

“Citrus scented disinfectant?” Jason asked.

“Yeah,” Buck said slowly, “citrus. Lucky guess?”

Jason shook his head and squeezed Buck’s arm, “Keep an eye on that. He may need something stronger. His brother is wildly allergic to citrus scented products and barely tolerant of citrus in skin care products.”

“Nico’s eaten lemon with me.” Buck met Jason’s eyes, “So maybe a family allergy? He said his mother told him he had a similar allergy as a child, but he grew out of it.”

Jason nodded, “Yeah, I think it’s back. Definitely keep an eye on that. He probably wouldn’t even know the signs of an allergic reaction.”

Buck nodded, “I will. Poor guy, he loves lemon and lemon-flavored food. It’s possible his is just the citrus scented products.”

“Yeah, I wish you luck with that. The Rossis are stubborn. It took me ages to convince Tonio to limit his consumption of citrus in food.”

“Nico’s an angel,” Buck said immediately. “He doesn’t indulge in things that aren’t good for him.” He blushed when Jason raised his eyebrows at him, an amused smile on his face. “Well, he is!” he said defensively.

Jason grinned, “It’s adorable to see you this way. I’m looking forward to you being in a relationship. And with someone you really like.”

Buck wanted to pout, but all he could do was grin. Jason was his family. He was excited to bring Nico into this family he had built with Jason, Tristan, and Evan, and to be part of the family Nico himself had built with them.

—

“How’s Maddie?” Jason asked sometime later as they sat out on the beautiful balcony, basking in the sunshine.

Buck sighed, “I wish I knew.”

“Whose upset at whom now?”

Buck huffed, “She’s upset with me for being upset with her, cause how dare I need time to process the news that the only reason I was born was because the parents needed spare parts for the son they did want. How dare I not bend over and welcome parents who have wallowed in their grief for my entire life. For not going along with her bullshit reasoning that the Buckleys are good people but bad parents. And her baby daddy is upset with me for holding strong to my boundaries, for not rushing to tow the line of what Maddie wants, Maddie gets on an emotional level, for not wanting him as part of her and my issues, for not wanting to house his brother. It’s take your pick at this point.”

“That’s a lot,” Jason said slowly. “While your parents' grief is certainly understandable, it’s not something they can force you to deal with. It doesn’t take away from the fact that in their grief, they didn’t fulfill your emotional needs.” He looked at Buck, “We’ve discussed this previously, but I just again want to say that I’m glad you now have an answer for why you felt your parents were disconnected from you emotionally. It was never your imagination.”

Buck nodded, “Me too.”

“You’ve not been going over to see the baby?”

“I was invited over once. I asked to visit once after and was allowed. Since then, they’ve brushed me off with excuses. Maddie sends pictures and videos,” Buck said flatly. How to speak without infusing his emotions into his tone was one thing he had begun working on since he had met Nico. It was hit or miss most of the time, but Buck figured it was fine, he would rather continue it and be a work in progress.

“The baby is three months, and you’ve only seen her twice in person,” Jason stated softly. 

Buck shrugged, “The last time I asked Maddie cited the pandemic. Never mind that I’ve now had both my shots, and Han works the same job as I do.”

“Han works a different job than you do,” Jason pointed out gently. “He is around patients, injured or sick people.”

Buck blew out a breath. “You’re right. It’s like she doesn’t even realize that. I’m taking it for what it seems like, that she’s punishing me for not jumping to her tune. I’ve stopped asking because at the end of it all, she’s the parent and I have no right to ask to be in her baby’s life. If she doesn’t want me to be a part of this life she’s building with Howard Han, then it is what it is.”

Jason placed his hand on Buck’s knee, “Is it really Evan?” he asked gently.

Buck rested his hand over Jason’s. “It is. Which was a tough realization to swallow when I came to it. At the base of it, Maddie and I weren’t in touch at all for over five years, and not really close since she left home. Any chance of rebuilding a relationship with her went out the window for me when she began dating who she is. I just didn’t realize that until recently.”

“Why?” Jason asked curiously. “What’s wrong with the guy? I mean, besides the bullying and creepy, inappropriate behavior with women.” He blinked, “Wow, I can’t believe I’m even asking for what’s wrong with him besides all this,” he muttered.

Buck chuckled and rubbed his face, “Right? Besides these issues, Maddie burrows in when she’s in a relationship. It’s what she does. I mean, think about it, she went from her parents' house to living with Doug, then married him and carried on even when he was physically and emotionally abusing her. She finally left him and began dating Chimney pretty quickly after.”

“She doesn’t know how to be single and on her own,” Jason stated.

Buck nodded, “And my pointing it out did not go over well. She denied they were dating. So I’m not allowed to comment on her relationships or her life, but she feels free to be as scathing and rude as she’d like about my life. What I do personally is now reflecting in Han’s attitude toward me when he’s pissed off at me thanks to Maddie filling him in. When I do something at work, Han goes and tells Maddie all about it, and she thinks it’s her right to tell me what she thinks about my professional life.”

“It’s got the makings of a toxic cycle.”

Buck shook his head, “We’re into that already,” he admitted. He looked at Jason, “When the parents were coming into town last year? Maddie told Han about the Daniel secret and made him promise not to tell anyone.”

“What?” Jason exclaimed. “Hell, even I’ve heard that Howard Han can’t keep a secret to save his life!”

“Correction, Howard Han can’t keep anyone else’s secret to save his life. He holds strong to his own secrets.”

“What do you mean?”

“It’s interesting, isn’t it, that the secret of me being a savior sibling was something Han did his best to blurt out to people. He tried to tell his brother, and his brother literally ran away from him. He made it very obvious at work that he had a secret to tell, and we caught on that the secret was about me. Do you know who he told?” Buck laughed bitterly, “We were on this call with a suicide bomber, and Han blurted it out to him. Isn’t it fanfuckingtastic that my sister’s boyfriend finally got to lighten his load and told a dangerous wannabe killer all about my personal life and my name. The man called out my name when he was brought out on the scene, not Buckley, Buck, and I have to wonder if he wasn’t trying to tell me about it, but didn’t get the opportunity. Instead, he told the detective who interviewed him about it, and the detective did me a kindness and called me to give me a heads up about it. Course by then, Maddie had come clean.” 

He raised his eyebrows at Jason, “Han kept his mouth firmly shut about his and Maddie’s secret about the pregnancy. I didn’t deserve to know why my sister had left her apartment during a pandemic to bunk down with Han’s brother. Or why Han had invaded my apartment and made mine and my neighbors' lives hell for weeks while he fretted over Maddie. So he can clearly keep secrets when the secrets are his own.”

“Jesus fucking Christ,” Jason said in an explosive whisper. 

“Papa! You took the Lord’s name in vain!” Evan scolded as he popped out onto the balcony. 

Jason sighed, “That I did, baby. Were you eavesdropping?”

“I promise I was not dropping no eaves, Sir!” Evan said as he imitated Samwise Gamgee from The Lord of the Rings. With a bright smile, he crawled up on the couch beside Buck. “Hi Evan!”

Buck smiled and wrapped his arm around his godson. “Hi Evan!”

Evan giggled and flopped across Buck’s chest. “Hi Papa!”

“Hi, sweetheart. I’ll put a dollar in the swear jar,” Jason promised. He glanced at his watch, “Are you on a break?”

Evan nodded, “We have a ten-minute break. I came to say hi.” He slung his leg over Buck’s lap and slid over to lie on Buck, a position he had been climbing up into since he was a baby.

“Do you want a snack? You can eat your fruit or crackers, and cheese,” Jason offered.

“I’ll take my fruit with me.” Evan reached out, fisted a hand in Jason’s t-shirt, and turned to rest his chin on Buck’s chest. “Are you having a nice time catching up with your bestie?”

Buck laughed and ran gentle fingers through Evan’s hair, brushing the long, thick strands off his forehead. “I sure am. How’s your morning going?”

“It’s going,” Evan said in a tone that made Buck think he was imitating Tristan. He huffed, “Math is so boring.”

“Boring?” Buck asked casually as he twirled a lock of Evan’s hair around his finger. “How is it boring?”

“It’s all so easy. I thought the point of the big boy classes was that it’d be fun to do,” Evan said with a pout.

Buck rubbed the boy’s back. “What about your other classes? Are the other subjects boring too?”

“Eh,” Evan muttered, “I suppose science is not so bad. But I honestly kinda hate it all.”

Buck blinked. “Do you really hate it all, or do you find the lack of challenge boring?”

Evan blinked big blue eyes up at him, his head cocked to the side as he seemed to consider the question. “The latter, I guess.” He sighed and pressed his face against Buck’s chest.

Buck looked at Jason to find his friend looking pained. He raised his eyebrows and nodded when Jason shook his head.

“I’m sorry school is dull for you, Ev,” he said gently.

“Thank you. Dad and papa will fix it,” Evan mumbled against his chest.

Buck smiled down at Evan’s tousled hair and then looked at Jason. He was so pleased for this family, for this little boy’s confidence that his fathers would fix his troubles. A confidence that was completely based on fact. Jason and Tristan would find a solution to how unfulfilled their son felt in his current educational circumstances. Buck didn’t doubt it for even a moment.

“It’s time to rejoin class, sweetheart,” Jason said gently. “Come, let’s get you your snack. We’ll all eat lunch together, okay?”

Evan turned his head and pressed his cheek against Buck’s chest. “Dad too?”

“Well, maybe not dad. He has a lot he can get done today since I’m home. But Evan, you and I will eat together.”

“Cool.” Evan carefully sat up and back on Buck’s legs. “You’re not going anywhere without me, right?” he asked Buck.

“I have no plans to leave this apartment without you unless it’s an emergency,” Buck promised.

Evan smiled brightly. “We’re going to have the best time together after school!”

Jason laughed as he stood up and lifted Evan off Buck. “Your godfather is all yours for the next four days.” He kissed Evan’s cheek as he took his son inside.

Buck smiled as he lay back and gazed at the clouds, spending time with his sweet godson was just what he needed. A child who had been lovingly shared with him, whose emotional well-being he had been entrusted. It hurt that Maddie didn’t seem to want him in her life and her child’s life, but he figured it would hurt less now to not get to know that child at all than it would later if he allowed himself to fall in love with Jee-Yun and then Maddie decided she no longer wanted him in her life took her away from him.

His life wouldn’t lack in love and care if his sister decided she was done with him. It sent a pulse of guilt through him for knowing he would get over it pretty easily. Maddie pulled away. Maddie left. It was what she did.

—

Saturday

Buck sat out on the balcony watching his godson do yoga under Tristan’s guidance. He was greatly amused at the serious expression on Evan’s face as he carefully followed his father’s motions. He knew they urged Evan to do yoga to help him relax and slow down, as he was a fairly hyper child, and activities like yoga and calisthenics helped relax him. He had offered to go inside when they had rolled out their mats so as not to be a distraction, but Tristan had asked him to stay put.

He checked again that his phone was on silent mode before he ignored his messages and opened his WhatsApp chat with Nico. The previous evening, Nico had messaged him at 7 pm, but he hadn’t been able to talk to him so as to give Evan all his attention. When he had messaged Nico after putting Evan to bed, the man hadn’t replied. This morning’s message hadn’t been acknowledged yet either.

[Sent 07:01] Good morning Nico. I’m just checking in. How are you feeling?

He began typing a message and was surprised to see Nico also typing in the window.

[Sent 08:22] Ciao Evan I am feeling better but not 100%. I will take another pill yes?

Buck frowned, Nico’s symptoms should not have persisted the way they were unless…

[Sent 08:23] Did the sneezing stop? Did you go out?

[Sent 08:23] The sneezing stopped but began again when I stepped outside to collect my groceries. I slept a long time which was welcome

[Sent 08:23] That’s good! Sleep is the best healer here. Have the other symptoms subsided?

[Sent 08:23] The sneezing had stopped as did the teary eyes. My throat continues to feel irritated and I am tired. But as I have not slept much this week I cannot blame the tiredness on anything but the lack of sleep

[Sent 08:24] Fair enough. The medicine helped you sleep?

[Sent 08:24] Sì, very good sleep

[Sent 08:24] Have you been hydrating?

[Sent 08:24] Eating?

[Sent 08:24] I know you probably don't have much of an appetite but you have to eat and drink.

[Sent 08:25] <picture - cup of coffee>

[Sent 08:25] I did not mean coffee!

[Sent 08:25] Coffee is not hydration!

[Sent 08:26] <picture - selfie of Nico slumped shirtless across the kitchen counter cup of coffee in front of him looking sleepily at the camera>

[Sent 08:26] You will pry my coffee from my cold dead stiff hands and I still may zombie return to take it back

[Sent 08:26] I never should have introduced you to Resident Evil. This is the entirely the wrong thing to focus on but are you wandering your apartment naked with the curtains open?

[Sent 08:27] <picture - selfie of Nico taken from above showing him with a raised eyebrow at the camera, bare chested with his cotton sleep pants sitting obscenely low on his hips>

[Sent 08:27] You’re gorgeous

[Sent 08:27] Thank you

[Sent 08:27] Food? Don’t try and distract me with your gorgeous self it’s not going to work!

[Sent 08:28] Worth the try

[Sent 08:28] Nico!

[Sent 08:28] I am making toast stop scolding me <crying face emoji>

[Sent 08:28] Nico <sad face emoji><hug emoji>

[Sent 08:28] Toast with butter even and honey

[Sent 08:29] That’s good <smiley face emoji> 

[Sent 08:29] Do you feel up to joining us at the beach today? Maybe some time out in the fresh air would do you good? I believe your brother and Carmen maybe be joining us.

[Sent 08:30] I feel I would do better staying home and resting. Have a good time. You are welcome to send me shirtless pictures of you frolicking on the beach

Buck smiled. Yeah, he had totally planned to do that.

[Sent 08:30] Oh I’ll definitely do that <winking face emoji>

[Sent 08:30] <smiley face emoji> I look forward to it

“Who are you talking to? It has you all smiley.”

Buck's head jerked up to find his godson watching him from where he was sitting with his legs spread, bent forward with his chin in his palms.

“Are you supposed to be chit-chatting with me through this?” Buck asked.

Evan drummed his fingers on his cheeks, “There’s no rule that I have to sit quietly.”

Buck glanced at Tristan, who nodded, then focused back on Evan. “I’m talking to a friend. Just checking in, hi hello, the usual.”

“Is he funny? Cause he has you smiley.”

“Ev, point and flex your toes,” Tristan said.

Buck watched as Evan began pointing and flexing his toes. 

“He is funny. He does make me smile and laugh.”

“Is he Christopher’s dad?” Evan asked curiously.

“Ah, no. But Christopher’s dad also makes me smile and laugh.”

Evan nodded, “That’s nice. It’s nice to have friends who do that. Christopher and Kelly are my friends who make me smile and laugh.”

“What about Rashid?” Buck asked.

“Rashid is a solemn boy. We all three get together and make him laugh,” Evan informed Buck. He smiled at Buck, “We’re also nice friends to have.”

Buck smiled, “You know your worth, and that’s great, Evan. You’re a good boy.”

Evan grinned, “Of course I am. I’m named after you and you’re a good boy,” he said easily.

Buck’s throat felt tight with happiness at how easy this child made life sound. At how good this family made him feel. “I love you, kid, I hope you know that.”

Evan smiled and blew him a kiss, “I love you, Evan. And I do know it, but it’s always nice when you tell me so too.”

“I’ll tell you often,” Buck promised.

He glanced at Tristan, who just smiled fondly at him.

—

Buck observed Eddie for a moment before speaking, “You’re quiet.”

Eddie picked up a fistful of sand and let it gently fall out of his hand with a sigh. “Nico may have been right about Ana playing me.” He glanced at Tristan, “Ana’s the woman I had a date with.”

“The woman you had a date with on pre-Valentine's.” Tristan nodded, “Got it.”

Buck snickered and nudged Tristan. He raised his eyebrows at Eddie, “Do tell.”

Eddie groaned. “She called, saying she was in the area, and if she could join us at the beach!” he hissed softly. “Who does that?”

Buck’s jaw dropped open. He snapped it shut and began looking around, “Is she coming here?” he hissed back.

Eddie rolled his eyes and huffed, “Of course not! She called when I had left home. I guess she heard me mention 11 am at some point and called me at 9:30 to ask. But I had already left to drop abuela off at Pepa’s.”

Tristan wrinkled his nose, “That’s… yeah kinda weird.”

“Did she think it was just you and Christopher going to the beach?” Buck asked curiously.

“That’s the thing!” Eddie leaned forward, “I had mentioned this was a trip for Chris and his friends. Why on earth did she think it normal for me to bring her around my kid before I was ready, forget other people’s kids?”

“Didn’t you mention this woman is a teacher?” Tristan asked. “Quite a strange ask from an educator. I would think a teacher would have more sense about how people don’t want to just introduce anyone they are dating to children.”

“Worse,” Buck said, “she’s a Vice Principal. She has a shiny new doctorate and everything.”

“That’s worse, isn’t it?” Eddie asked Tristan.

Tristan nodded, “Worse.”

“What should I do?” Eddie asked, looking between them.

“What did you tell her?” Buck asked.

“That I had already left, and this day was about Christopher and his friends. She was agreeable and asked if we could get together at any point over the weekend. I said I’d let her know,” Eddie said honestly.

“Do you want to see her?” Tristan asked.

“That was the plan. But now I don’t know.”

“Okay, let us look at this a different way. She asked if she could join and accepted immediately when you refused,” Tristan began. At Eddie’s nod, he continued, “She’s asked to meet. And you had planned to meet her during your four off, right?” 

“Yeah, I’d planned to maybe ask her to meet her for lunch tomorrow if she was free,” Eddie said.

“So stick to that. And see how the date goes. Maybe there has been a miscommunication or misunderstanding somewhere.”

“I suppose you should listen to the optimistic grown-up between us,” Buck muttered.

Eddie laughed and gently poked Buck’s foot with his toes. He sighed, “Now let’s hope Chris doesn’t pitch a fit about me going out tomorrow.”

“Feel free to drop him off at ours. We’re going to be watching the Narnia series. Christopher is welcome to join us,” Tristan offered.

“Are you sure?” Eddie asked. He glanced between them, “I don’t want to take away from Evan’s time with Buck.”

Buck looked at Tristan.

Tristan shook his head. "Evan will be happy to have Chris over. In fact, why don’t you come over after your date? Hang out, watch a movie, eat some pizza. You need to relax a bit, too.”

“Dad! We need more water!” Christopher called out from where the two kids were seated away from them, creating sand art.

“I’ll get it,” Tristan said and stood up.

Eddie watched Tristan walk away, then looked at Buck. “Are you okay with this plan of us intruding on your time with your family?” he asked gently.

Buck smiled, appreciating Eddie’s care. “I’m good with both my families meeting and spending time together. Let me know if you want me to pick Chris up. I can bring Evan with me and treat the entire thing like an outing.”

Eddie smiled warmly, “Thanks, Buck.”

Buck smiled back, “Anything for my Diaz boys.”

“Let me know if I can do anything to return the favor.”

“Oh, you can,” Buck said immediately. “You can help me by taking a picture of me.”

“A picture,” Eddie said slowly.

“Uh huh,” Buck said innocently.

“A picture of you… doing what?”

Buck smirked, “A picture of me lounging in the sand with the waves kissing me. Maybe another of me kneeling in the sand, pouring water on myself. I need to send Nico a nice picture.”

Eddie’s jaw dropped open. He snapped it shut. “Evan Buckley, I cannot believe you want me to take your thirst traps for you!”

“He asked for one! I gotta make it memorable!” Buck shot back.

Eddie narrowed his eyes at Buck, “You’re messing with me.”

Buck laughed, “Your face right now, Eds.” He leaned back on his arms, “Don’t worry, Nico did ask for a picture, but I wouldn’t want to scandalize your delicate sensibilities by involving you in it.”

“You evil creature. Evan is a sweet angel, Nico should be calling you Gremlin instead.”

Buck just winked and laughed.

—

“So,” Buck said later that night as he dropped down on the couch opposite Tristan, “I thought we were going hiking tomorrow.”

Tristan glanced at the clock and raised his eyebrows, “You put him to sleep in under fifteen minutes? That’s a new record with the Evans.”

Buck laughed, “He was exhausted from the fresh air and eating two whole burgers. He said that he was tired from all the eating.”

Tristan smiled and slouched down. “I figured we’d help Eddie out. Ev won’t mind if you guys go hiking earlier in the morning and then spend the afternoon with Chris. This is why we told you not to plan the weekend out with him down to the details. If he doesn’t have an exact plan to fixate on he’s happy to go with the flow.”

Buck nodded, “I’ll keep that in mind for the future.”

“It’s a more recent thing with him. We’re hoping he relaxes back on the planning front as the world opens back up.” Tristan yawned and stretched, “I’m exhausted, and I’ve not even done anything much all day.”

“You sat outside in the fresh air and sunshine. And then kept jumping up to cater to the boys, slather them in sunblock, and mist them down. Relaxing isn’t as easy as it seems when you’re always on the go, Tris,” Buck said gently.

“I’m not always on the go,” Tristan protested.

Buck raised his eyebrows, “In the two hours we’ve been home, you showered, vacuumed, steam mopped the entryway, did a load of laundry, and prepped for tomorrow’s lunch.”

Tristan winced, “It had to be done,” he said weakly.

Buck pointed at Tristan, “Tomorrow you’re going to park your ass next to your husband’s on the couch and let me handle the boys. I’ll serve them and you food and drinks and clean up. No,” he held up his hands when Tristan began to speak, “I won’t entertain a word of protest Tristan James Richardson!”

Tristan laughed and held up his own hands, “Okay, okay, you win. You’re in charge tomorrow. If you want me to sloth, I’ll sloth.”

“Great!” He clapped his hands softly. “Want a hot chocolate or tea?”

“Want an ice cream sundae with brownies?” Tristan asked softly.

“J made fudge sauce?” Buck whispered with a glance toward the hallway.

Tristan smiled, “J made fudge sauce.”

They grinned at each other.

—

Once Buck settled into bed that night, he tapped his phone to open his chat with Nico and stared at Nico’s reply to the picture he had sent him. He had stood in the shallow waves and taken a selfie from above of himself, sun drenched with the sparkling water around him. In the end, he had decided to send Nico a sweet picture instead of the thirst trap he had originally been planning on.

[Sent 19:15] I long for the day I may wrap myself around you Evan

Nico’s sincere, sweet words made Buck smile. And worried him a little. But he didn’t know why.

[Sent 22:01] I hope that day is close <hug emoji> 

[Sent 22:01] We plan to watch the Narnia movie series tomorrow if you’d like to join us? Christopher is coming over and Eddie will join us later.

He went ahead and issued the invitation without asking Jason and Tristan. He knew if Nico chose to come, he would be welcome.

—

Sunday

Sunday morning, Buck woke up when he felt the bed dip and duvet shift as Evan crawled up into the bed and flopped onto his stomach. He turned his head and looked at the sweet little face watching him. 

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to wake you,” Evan whispered.

“I’m always happy to wake up to you, Ev,” Buck whispered.

Evan smiled shyly, crawled forward on his stomach, and rested his head on Buck’s stomach. Buck touched his cheek and then began running his fingers through Evan’s hair.

“Did you sleep well?”

“I slept the sleep of the righteous,” Evan declared.

Buck laughed, “Where did you learn that from?”

Evan grinned, “Papa. Did you sleep well?”

Buck continued caressing Evan’s hair, gently working open the knots from his thick hair. “I did. You guys wore me out yesterday.”

“We did not! We just sat there playing with our sand!” Evan protested.

Buck smoothened Evan’s hair back and cupped his cheek, marveling at how his little face fit into the palm of his hand.

“My angels,” he cooed.

Evan grinned and pressed his face into Buck’s hand. “What are we doing today?”

“Well, what do you think of inviting Christopher to join us for our Narnia watch party?” Buck asked carefully, hopeful that Evan’s large heart would be pleased to have his friend over.

“That’ll be nice! Tonio had said he would make us pizza dough for lunch. I’ll share mine with Chris.”

Buck melted at how sweet this boy is. “I’m sure there will be enough for both of you to eat your fill, Ev. It’s very sweet of you to want to share your food.”

“It’s what friends do,” Evan said softly.

“I was thinking that if you’re not tired, you and I could go for a hike and maybe grab breakfast somewhere,” Buck suggested.

Evan smiled, “Really? Just you and me?”

“Just you and me. I want to hang out with my favorite boy.”

“An Ev and Ev time!”

“Yup!” Buck patted Evan’s cheek, “You wanna go get ready? Shorts or sweats, full-sleeved tee, socks,  sneakers.”

“I have new hiking sneakers. Dad bought me a new pair when we went home for Christmas.” Evan frowned, “Is it okay if I don’t call LA home?”

“It’s okay, Ev. You’re allowed to feel what you do.”

“Yeah?” Evan asked uncertainly.

“Yeah,” Buck said gently.

“Is LA home for you?” Evan asked, grabbing Buck’s hand and lifting his hand to indicate he wanted his cheek patted.

Buck grinned and resumed patting Evan’s cheek. “LA is home right now. People are also home. Your dads and you are home for me.”

“Really?” Evan asked in wide-eyed surprise. 

“Really,” Buck promised.

Evan smiled brightly, “You’re my family and my home too.” He pushed himself up and threw himself at Buck.

Buck grinned and caught Evan in his arms, hugging his godson tight. They stayed hugging for a long moment before Evan stirred against him.

“Can we get French toast for breakfast? Or something with Nutella?” 

Buck, who had already gotten the okay from Tristan to feed Evan whatever he wanted this weekend, was happy to agree. “Sure. Let’s look for a French toast spot, and if we can’t find that, we’ll move on to searching for a Nutella spot.”

Evan sat up. “But we can’t tell Nico.”

Buck blinked, “Why?” he asked, confused.

Evan stared at Buck, “Nico hasn’t given you the Nutella lecture yet?” he asked wide-eyed.

“Um, no,” Buck said warily.

Evan patted Buck’s chest, “Try to avoid it.”

“How bad can it be?” Buck teased.

“Bad!” Evan waves his arms, “Like he talks with his hands and everything!”

Buck gasped, “No! He gets all Italian hands over it?”

“Yes!” Evan clapped his hands. “Oh, it was glorious! It just came out of nowhere when I innocently asked for Nutella. And then papa discovered that dad got me Nutella so then Nico and papa just banded together and began talking to,” he paused and tilted his head, “or maybe at each other and just discussing how terrible the ingredients are and this ingredient and that ingredient and,” he trailed off and blew out a breath. “It was a lot! In conclusion, we no longer have Nutella at home.”

Buck raised his eyebrows, “So you want me to get you Nutella, which you aren’t allowed?”

Evan shook his head, “No, no! I’m allowed when I go out to eat. You can double-check with dad.”

Buck tapped Evan’s chin, “Not that I don’t trust you, my sweet boy, but I will check just so that neither of us gets in trouble. Cause I do trust your parents to scold you if you eat something you know you’re not supposed to.”

Evan patted Buck’s chest, “Yup! I have to take ownership over my food and lifestyle choices.”

Buck grinned and grabbed Evan, lifting him up as he sat up. “Look at you parrotting your papa, you sweet baby.” He smacked a kiss on Evan’s cheek, then slid out of bed and settled Evan on his hip, “If it’s okay with you, I’m going to still treat you like my sweetie pie little Ev.” He smacked a kiss on Evan’s hair.

Evan grinned, “That is acceptable.” He wrapped his hand around Buck’s neck, “Would you like me to get you some coffee while you get ready?”

“You’re so sweet, thank you, Ev.” Buck carried Evan into his bedroom and over to his walk-in closet. “I’m good on the coffee front. I’ll get ready and meet you in the kitchen so we can get our bags ready. Do you need help picking out your outfit?”

“No, I know what I want to wear. Nico organized my closet back in January, so I have a very efficient system now.”

“He did?” Buck asked as he gently set Evan down.

“Yeah, he was bored and said he needed to get out of his head for a bit. So dad came in here and told me to throw all my clothes off the hangers and shelves so Nico could fold.” Evan waved his hands around the walk-in closet.

Buck looked around and nodded. The neatly folded, color-coordinated closet looked quite lovely. “Who's folding it all now?”

“I do! I liked how neat everything looked and how small Nico folded everything, so I asked him to show me how to do it. It looks nice,” Evan said happily as he went to a shelf and plucked a t-shirt off a shelf. “On this Sunday, I shall wear yellow!”

Buck smiled, “Yeah, yellow is perfect for hiking.”

“I’ll be ready in a minute!” Evan said excitedly. 

“Don’t forget your sunscreen!” Buck called out as Evan nearly skipped into the bathroom.

“Dad will supervise the first application!” Evan called out. 

Buck shook his head and headed back to the guest room. He looked around the quiet apartment and figured Jason wasn’t home yet. He had no idea what time it was. He glanced at his phone on the bedside table and decided to leave it and get ready first. His godson was a speedy little fellow and excited to go out. And he was determined to make sure Evan got the time out in the world that he deserved.

—

Buck didn't have a moment to himself for the rest of the day, and he was perfectly fine with that. His morning with Evan went off brilliantly. His godson was engaged, happy, and agreeable. And he was still small enough that Buck could carry him on his shoulders for a bit when the boy expressed an interest in seeing 'the whole world from up there.’

The good mood carried over into breakfast when they did manage to find a nice cafe for French toast with a big dollop of Nutella. 

When they got back home, he spent every minute present and focused on making sure Evan and Christopher had a good time and Tristan and Jason had space to just relax and be together. 

He and Jason made pizza, and the boys happily helped with their own toppings. They ate together at the table as was the family's preference.

Through the movie, he had resisted the urge to check his messages. He didn't for even a moment want Evan to think he wasn't thrilled to be here with them and present in every moment. And it worked out when Evan shifted to his other side so that both Christopher and Evan could use Buck as their pillow and flop against him as they watched.

Buck in that moment was utterly content to just stay put, settle in further, and play pillow for his favorite boys. 

It was only when he was settled in bed that night that he allowed himself to look at all the messages that had piled up through yesterday and today. He closed out the ones that he didn't deem pressing while looking for one that should have come in. With a frown, he tapped open WhatsApp and into his pinned chat with Nico. He stared in surprise at the single tick mark on the photos he had sent that day. His message from last night inviting Nico for the movie had been delivered, but the pictures he had sent throughout the day sat undelivered. 

Did Nico have his phone off? His eyes flicked up to take in the time, and decided 10 pm was not an hour to call. He worried his lower lip as he realized he didn't even know what hours Nico was working this week. He wasn't going to call and risk disturbing him until he knew.

[Sent 22:01] I missed you today.

He bit down harder on his lip, not wanting Nico to think he was trying to make him feel guilty for not coming, and quickly sent another message.

[Sent 22:02] Tonio made us pizza dough and sauce. I finally had a taste of your family’s pizza, and I have to say it was delicious <smiley face emoji>

He didn't expect the two ticks of delivered to show up, but the one tick still made him frown harder. He sighed deeply and set his phone down on the bedside table, and settled in to sleep. Maybe Nico just literally switched off for a bit by switching his phone off. No other scenario even entered his mind. Why would it?

—

Monday

The morning had been a peaceful one. Buck, after he had gone out for a run, had returned, eaten breakfast and showered had just sprawled out on the couch and read a book. A chilled out day today was the perfect way to wind down from the busy three days before he went back to work tomorrow. 

He had half a ear on Evan and Tristan’s conversation at the kitchen island.

“Nico isn't replying to my messages, dad.”

Buck looked up with a frown. While he found Evan’s huffy tone to be adorable, his words struck a cord of fear in him.

“Maybe he’s busy, sweetheart.”

“He didn't reply yesterday either. I don't like being ignored.”

Tristan ruffled Evan’s hair, “You are so spoiled.”

Evan giggled and batted at Tristan’s hand, “Indulged! And Nico never ignores me. He always replies!”

Buck couldn’t help but smile at their banter. Tristan and Jason would tell Evan he was spoiled, and Evan would reply that he was indulged. Something he had picked up from his parents, because when Tristan or Jason told each other that they were spoiling Evan, the other would claim they were indulging Evan.

“Well he ignores me sometimes. And ignores Tonio,” Tristan said easily.

Buck felt compelled to join the conversation. “He doesn't ignore me either. And he hasn't replied to my messages from yesterday.”

Evan turned and smiled at him, “Must be an Evan thing. Nico prefers his Evans.”

Buck smiled, “How could he not? His Evans are the best.”

He met Tristan’s eyes when Evan turned his attention back to his iPad and was relieved to find his worry reflected back. He tilted his head toward the balcony and Tristan nodded.

Tristan rested his hand on Evan’s head, “Put the iPad away and eat. You know the screen time rule."

Evan obediently pulled over the iPad cover and moved it away, grabbing his spoon to continue eating.

Buck began speaking as soon as Tristan stepped outside. “Okay, Nico and I text near daily. This is the longest he's gone in the year I've known him without responding."

Tristan looked out at the sky and blew out a breath. "So here's the thing, Nico at times goes silent on the communication front. He won’t reply, won't answer calls. If it's urgent then tough luck. Antonio can get through to him about work. So this could just be that."

Buck watched Tristan closely, “But you don't think this is that?”

Tristan met his eyes, “He doesn't ignore Evan.” He inclined his head, “His Evans. If you're telling me he's never left you on read or outright just turned his phone off on you in the past six months or so, then I’m officially worried."

Buck pulled his phone out of his pocket and called Nico. He stared at Tristan when the call went straight to voicemail.

“Hey, it’s Evan. I’m worried I haven’t heard from you. Can you call me back or text, please?”

—

Tuesday

“Hello, Evan.”

Buck looked up from where he was waiting for the elevator and smiled at Antonio, "Hey, Antonio. How are you?"

Antonio inclined his head, “I am well, and you?"

"I'm good. Had a good break staying over.” He paused then asked, "Hey, have you heard from Nico?"

"Not since Saturday.”

Buck frowned, "Yeah. Me too."

“Sometimes Nico," Antonio paused as if considering his words, then continued, "goes off the grid. A mental health break if you will. I would not worry."

“Okay,” Buck said slowly. He waved when the elevator arrived at the floor and stepped in to head down to the parking garage.

As he drove out of the building, he tapped his fingers on the wheel. In the fifteen months he had known and interacted with Nico, there had never been any such breaks. If he sent a message, Nico acknowledged it. Especially after he had told Nico he could acknowledge his messages with just an emoji.

The days had been so busy with Evan, Tristan, Jason, and Christopher that he hadn't worried too much about the fact that Nico hadn't acknowledged his messages or the pictures he had sent on Sunday. Or that his messages hadn’t been delivered. His phone could have run out of battery for a short time, but Nico was not the type to leave his phone be.

He bit his lip as he recalled a conversation they had had on the day they met. 

“I have traveled the world but never alone. I have never gone offline, disconnected, and disappeared for a time.”

Buck wondered at the wistful tone Nico’s words held. “What’s holding you back from doing so?” he asked gently.

“My family. They worry,” Nico said simply.

Buck cocked his head to the side, “What if you inform them and then disappear?” He could see he had confused him if the slight narrowing of his eyes was anything to go by. Which to Buck, it was.

“Would that not defeat the purpose?” Nico asked slowly.

Buck smiled slightly and explained, “You inform them, or even a single point of contact who could pass the news on that you are choosing to disconnect for a period of time and then you do so. Even if what you choose to do is lock your doors and sit at home enjoying your space. And maybe you let them know you will check back in by a certain date.”

Nico nodded slowly, “Boundaries. Information shared and boundary created. This idea has much merit. I must think on it.”

Had Nico begun doing so since last year but stayed in contact with Evan and Buck? Had he now reached a state where he felt comfortable taking a break from them as well? And if that was the case, and Buck didn’t begrudge Nico his mental health break, but why hadn’t he kept Buck in the loop like he did his family? Especially considering the relationship they were building.

—

[Sent 12:01] Hey, just checking in. I'm kinda worried I haven't heard from you.

Buck stared at the single tick mark on his previous messages and wondered why he had thought sending a new message would magically double tick them all.

He huffed in frustration and sent another message.

[Sent 12:02] Not kinda. I don't know why I said that. I AM worried, Nico. I just need you to know that.

He stared at Nico's solemn face on his profile picture. He had changed it from one of him smiling his little smile. Buck tapped the side of his phone as he remembered that conversation. He scrolled up his chat with Nico.

[Sent 18:09] Why did you change your dp? 

[Sent 18:09] Not that this one isn't <heart eyes emoji>

[Sent 18:11] I was on video call with the family and my aunt said twice I must shave and smile

[Sent 18:11] Ahhhh. Got it.

[Sent 18:11] For the record I adore this little smile of yours. One day I'm going to trace it with my fingers

[Sent 18:11] Is that so Evan? Tell me more

[Sent 18:11] <gif - Grease, “tell me more, tell me more”>

[Sent 18:12] I'll trace the curve of your lips with my finger, rubbing my finger in the corner of your mouth. Then I'll dip my thumb in chocolate and trail it along your lips

[Sent 18:12] Chocolate

[Sent 18:12] Milk chocolate

[Sent 18:12] Evan

[Sent 18:12] I said what I said

[Sent 18:12] I will make certain both of our homes are stocked with milk chocolate

[Sent 18:13] <smiley face emoji>

[Sent 18:13] <smiley face emoji>

Buck couldn't help but relax just rereading their flirtation. Their everyday mundaneness that felt so special to him. He took a deep breath and slowly blew it out. Nico was fine. He had just switched off like Tonio and Tristan had said. The way Buck had encouraged him to do. Like he had been doing for months, apparently, but this time had included both his Evans in the list and gone off grid completely. He had just forgotten to tell Buck about it.

Nico was fine. And Buck was ready to date the heck out of his man.

—

“You alright?” Eddie asked as he sidled up beside Buck at the kitchen counter. He grabbed a cloth to wipe down the dishes Buck was pulling out of the dishwasher. “You've been kinda antsy for a few hours now.”

Buck glanced at Eddie and sighed. "I'm going through Nico withdrawals.” He knew he sounded sullen, but he didn’t care to do anything about it.

Eddie blinked once, then rapidly several times before he laughed, startled, “What?”

“Nico's not replied to any of my messages for DAYS! I miss my Nico.” Buck stuck his lower lip out in an exaggerated pout that made Eddie laugh again.

Christopher had been in a bit of a mood when he had arrived on Sunday, and Eddie had been quiet when he had picked Christopher up. Buck figured that making his friend laugh and giving him an opportunity to tease Buck would relax Eddie.

“You two are so cute. I want to say it's icky, but," Eddie sighed, “It's just so cute.”

Buck fluttered his eyes at Eddie, making him grin and lightly shove Buck's shoulder. He set his own worry over Nico’s silence aside and focused on Eddie.

“How was your date?”

The corner of Eddie’s mouth twisted, telling Buck everything he needed to know.

“It was okay,” Eddie said slowly.

Buck nodded encouragingly.

Eddie sighed, “We met at that restaurant May posted about, and she just didn't seem into the food. I was excited to try it.”

“So she doesn't like fusion food, that's okay,” Buck said lightly. “You can enjoy that with us.” He said us effortlessly, meaning him and Nico, not even doubting that they were an us at this point. They had been an us for months now. Just not physically in the same space.

“We didn't have much to talk about,” Eddie said reluctantly.

Buck’s eyebrows went up involuntarily. “She's a teacher. An educator. I'm going to assume she's well-read and watches television. You’re well read, you watch TV, you even watch those telenovelas that you pretend are for Isabel, but even Nico knows it’s for you. Pull a topic from any of these to talk about?”

Eddie rolled his eyes, “Leave abuela’s telenovelas out of this.”

Buck snickered, “Sure.”

He stacked the dried plates. “What's the last real thing you and Nico talked about?”

Buck’s thoughts immediately jumped to the WhatsApp conversation he had been rereading. He bit back a smirk and decided to toss it at Eddie.

“We talked about him changing his WhatsApp display picture,” he said innocently.

Eddie paused from where he was sorting the cutlery, “Okay? Thrilling.”

Buck waited for Eddie to look away before he spoke. "And I told him I wanted to swipe melted chocolate over his lips." He flashed his best Bambi expression when Eddie fumbled the spoons in his hands and dropped some.

“You asshole,” Eddie hissed as he picked the spoons up.

Buck snickered, “You asked.”

Eddie gently shoved Buck’s shoulder. “Be serious,” he pleaded. “I’ve forgotten what it's like to make date conversation.”

“And you're asking me? The guy who has barely dated and just hooked up with people?” Buck asked dryly.

Eddie gave him a look that Buck branded his dad look. He brought it out when people were poking at his patience. "You and Nico have been dating, dating adjacent, for over a year. Ask anyone who knows you both, and they'll agree. So out with it.”

Buck smiled happily and leaned on the counter. He wasn't going to disagree with that. 

“The last thing we really messaged about was how he wasn't feeling good, thanks to a new disinfectant being used in the building. I suggested he take an antihistamine, and we chit chatted for a bit. Before that, I overheard him telling off a colleague for being too Japanese. I asked about it and if that wasn't offensive. He informed me that he has known the man since school and it’s their thing. He complains about the man being too Japanese, or not Japanese enough, the man complains about him being too restrained, an Italian, and also too Italian, and then they gang up on their American friend for being too American. Apparently, there’s no such thing as someone not being American enough. Then he informed me in that adorably snooty way of his that context and nuance matter and one must not be so quick to judge. Then he held up his phone and flashed the American's gif at me.”

Eddie was smiling by the end of it. “Well, one, Nico's right. And two,” he sighed, “that’s what I want. You two talk about anything and everything. You and I do the same. Hell, last week I had a ten-minute conversation with Jason about zucchini zoodles things. Neither of us could figure out how we got to that topic.” 

“But it was easy and smooth,” Buck said. “And that's what you're missing with Ana?”

“Yeah.” Eddie put the last of the cutlery away, shut the drawer, and leaned against the counter, folding his arms across his chest. “Nico was right, I suck at this.”

“Well, I believe he said you are a novice at this. Which means you just need more practice,” Buck said seriously.“Hmmm.” He gave it a moment’s thought. “Okay, how about you try this? Ask her to tell you something about herself. Nico and I did that the day we met. Just put out random information about ourselves to each other. You could also ask her more specific things, like asking her what’s the best thing that happened to her that day. Things like that. It gives her the opportunity to invite you into her day and life. And vice versa.”

Eddie nodded slowly. “I like this idea.” He sighed, “I guess I can give it another go.” He clasped Buck’s bicep and squeezed, “Thanks, bud.” 

Buck smiled, “I’m here for you, man.”

—

Sixteen hours into his twenty-four-hour shift, Buck was antsy. His messages to Nico continued to display one tick mark next to them. Sent but not delivered. It was Tuesday evening. He had last communicated with Nico on Saturday night. This was officially the longest they had gone without communicating in months. He felt uneasy. Almost like he needed his Nico fix to function optimally. 

He forced himself not to reach out to Antonio to ask if Nico had logged into work. He did not want to alarm the man since he had seemed quite relaxed this morning. Nico had to have logged into work yesterday for him to have been so relaxed. He was sure Nico didn’t randomly take days off work for a mental health break.

He nodded, that had to be it. Nico’s work phone was on, and he had worked, which was why there was no cause for Antonio to be worried about his brother. Buck had no cause to worry the man about his brother. Nico had just forgotten to tell Buck that he was taking a communication break. It was not a big deal, and he needed to calm down about this. And ask Nico to include him in whatever list about informing people that he was going off the grid.

He glanced at the time. Eight hours, and he'd be able to go home and check on Nico himself. 

—

Wednesday

“Hey, Buck.”

Buck looked up from where he was doing meal prep for the next shift. That was another change that had taken place in the firehouse. If they had the time, they meal prepped what they could for the incoming shift to help out. 

“Hey,” he said politely. He was grateful Bobby was with him, just so Chimney and he wouldn’t get into a snippy conversation.

“You wanna come over for breakfast? You can spend some time with Jee-Yun and Maddie,” Chimney offered.

“Oh?” Buck asked warily. He wanted to refuse. He wanted to go home and check on Nico. 

“Yeah,” Chimney said carefully. “Maddie misses you. And you haven’t gotten much of a chance to see the baby.”

Buck asked the universe for patience. He couldn’t very well refuse now. Now, when Chimney had worded it the way he had.

“Sure,” he forced himself to say. “That sounds great.” His need to try his best, his ingrained need to keep the peace, was going to be the death of him someday. He shoved that thought away and decided this was another thing he had to fix in therapy.

—

Three hours later, Buck was just unhappy. Unhappy that Maddie probably didn’t want to see him. But they were happy to use him as their errand boy. 

He had reached Chimney’s and had been offered a simple breakfast of bagels and cream cheese, which he had been fine with. Jee-Yun had been sleeping, but he had gotten to see her. Maddie had once again expressed her discomfort at him continuing therapy even after their parents had declined to join him for family therapy after two sessions. He personally didn’t count the two sessions they had joined him for as a waste of money. It had taught him enough that he was now firm on not wanting to seek out a relationship with them.

Maddie, after poking at him a bit about therapy and his life, had asked if he’d take Albert to his doctor’s appointment. And wait there with him for it. And then drop him back home so that Chimney could stay home with her and Jee-Yun. Not bring Albert back and come visit with them again, merely drop Albert off.

He had been paid to be an Uber in bagels. He had set his worry over Nico’s silence aside and quietly agreed while knowing in his heart that it was time to seriously begin distancing himself from his sister. There was nothing for him here, and he didn’t want further resentment to set in over the relationship he had with his sister.

Which brought him back to the present. Sitting outside in his car while Albert went through his appointment because, god forbid, Albert Han take an Uber. Guilt flooded him immediately. Albert was a friend. He himself was a lousy friend for thinking this way.

He took a moment to center himself and breathe. Inhale 1 2 3 4, Exhale 4 3 2 1. He repeated the sequence until he felt himself shedding the guilt.

He was a good friend. He was happy to be able to help Albert. But it wasn’t wrong of him to expect a heads-up when Howard needed his help. Even if Chimney weren’t in a relationship with Maddie, he would have agreed to help a colleague’s family out. He knew his worry over Nico was what had stirred everything up. He just wanted to see or hear from Nico and know that his man, the man, he winced and rubbed his face, his man was okay.

He glanced at his phone as it buzzed and nodded when he saw it was Albert informing him that he was coming out. He sighed in relief, he would get Albert home and then go straight to Nico. The worry was driving him out of his mind.

—

Once at his apartment, Buck dumped his bag and quickly sanitized his essentials as was his routine. He then took a quick shower and changed his clothes. Grabbing his phone, he texted Nico while rushing down the stairs.

[Sent 12:32] ? 

He stared at the one tick of sent but undelivered. He moved to stand outside his apartment door and pressed call. He took a deep breath when the call kicked straight to voicemail.

Buck knocked on the door. “Nico!” he called out loudly. He glanced at the time and waited a full minute before knocking and calling out again. “Nico!”

He waited thirty seconds, then began knocking repeatedly, “Nico! Please open the door!”

At the continued silence, Buck decided he could apologize later for intruding on Nico’s privacy. He went into his apartment and grabbed Nico's spare key from the drawer, attaching it to his own set and shutting his apartment door. 

He unlocked the door and stuck his head in. “Nico! I'm coming in,” he called out.

He paused when he stepped in. The apartment was dark. Nico loved sunlight and always had the curtains pulled open.

“Nico?” 

His eyes moved around the expansive open-plan areas of the apartment. He moved to the bedroom that served as Nico's home office and found it to be empty and dark. He moved to his glass-walled, encased bedroom and debated with himself whether disturbing Nico was the right move. But something pushed him to continue. 

“Nico?” He carefully slid the glass door open and stared in shock at his friend curled up on the edge of the bed, looking impossibly small for such a tall man. 

"Nico?" He kept his voice soft. When there was no movement, he made to step back, not wanting to wake him. But something made him move closer instead. He crouched down by the bed and spent a long moment observing his neighbor-friend-man-he-loved. Nico's skin looked pale, his hair in disarray, and fine tremors wracked his frame. His eyes ran down his long-sleeved t-shirt and sweats. Nico didn't sleep dressed this way. Buck knew for a fact that Nico wore pjs, actual proper pjs, to bed or slept naked.

He pressed a gentle hand against Nico's cheek and hissed at the heat emanating from his skin. 

Nico moaned softly and turned his head away from Buck’s hand. Buck figured his hand must feel like ice to Nico’s hot skin.

"Nico?" He moved his hand to Nico’s shoulder and shook him gently. "Open your eyes for me," he demanded softly. He glanced at the bedside table and saw the thermometer, and shook his head with a frown. He squeezed Nico’s shoulder, "I'm going to be right back, okay?"

He stood up and reluctantly left Nico’s side, rushing out through the apartment. He shut the door behind him and went into his own apartment. He grabbed his first aid box and headed back next door. Taking care to lock the doors behind him, he made his way to Nico’s bedroom, where the man had not moved.

Crouching back down, Buck opened up the first aid box, took out the no-touch thermometer, and turned it on. Holding it to Nico’s forehead, he waited for the beep.

103.5

He sucked in air between his teeth. Fuck. This was not good. This was so not good. 

He yanked his phone out of his pocket and spent a moment debating whether to call 911. 103.5 was bad. But the Tylenol extra strength on the bedside table told him Nico had probably, hopefully, been controlling the fever. Could he risk taking him to a hospital right now? When ERs were still flooded at max capacity and struggling? Could he risk exposing Nico to an emergency room in his current state?

Decision made he tapped open his favorites and dialed Jason, chewing on his lip as it rang a few times. He was mentally scrolling through who he knew over at the station where Jason worked and who was currently on shift at the 118 when the call was answered.

"Hey, Ev."

"J," he sighed in relief. "Nico's running a 103.5 fever. What should I do?"

"Since when?" Jason asked immediately.

"I don't know. I'm guessing he's been feeling poorly for days with that allergic reaction. He hadn't replied to me since Saturday night, so I’m guessing since then?”

"Is he responsive? What has he been taking for it?"

Buck glanced at Nico again. "No. I tried shaking him awake, but other than pulling away from my cold hand on his very hot face, he hasn't responded.”

“Okay, I know you already know this, but let's go over it.”

Buck relaxed at Jason’s authoritative tone and listened to his instructions.

“You wipe him down with tepid water. Forehead, wrists. If he tolerates it, wipe his face down. Recheck his temp in thirty minutes. If it stays at 103.5, you check again in thirty. If it goes up at all, he needs more help."

Buck took a deep breath, his gaze fixed on Nico’s face. “So I determine in thirty to an hour if he needs to go to the hospital.”

“Yes.”

Buck blew out a breath, “Okay. He's in a long-sleeved t-shirt and sweats. I'm going to start with his forehead and wrists and wipe and see.”

"Yes, do that. Don't give him any meds until he can tell when he last took a dose. Get water into him. Call me back in thirty. I can come over."

Buck shook his head, “I got him."

"Ev, he's a big guy himself. And if he’s unresponsive or sluggish, you'll need help," Jason said firmly.

Buck knew J was right. "I'll call you back," he promised. 

“Try your best to wake him and make him respond. Determine lucidity. Make sure there’s circulation in the room.”

Buck swallowed and nodded, “Yes, okay. Thanks." He disconnected and set his phone down on the table. He allowed himself to stare at Nico for a minute, and panic. Then shoved it away, hauled himself up, and adulted.

—

“Don’t do that,” Buck said for what felt like the hundredth time as Nico tried to brush the cloth of his forehead.

“Freddo.”

Buck nearly wept at hearing Nico finally respond verbally. He had been at this for two hours. Nico had become slowly responsive an hour in as his fever had come down to 102. Small movements, weak non-verbal protests, then trying to push his hands away, and now, finally, FINALLY a verbal response. It was soft and weak, but to Buck, it was the most beautiful sound.

“You’re running a high fever, Nico. You have to leave it on,” he said gently, grabbing Nico’s wrists and gently holding them in his hands.

Hazel eyes slowly opened, “Evan?” 

Nico’s voice sounded hoarse and pained.

Buck gently squeezed Nico’s wrists, “Yeah, Nico, it’s me.”

“Cosa stai facendo qui?” Nico tugged on his arms.

Buck quickly let go.

“Non dovresti essere qui, sono malato,” Nico squeezed his eyes shut and reached for the wash cloth again.

“Hey, hey, Nico, no, no, you have to let that be, okay? It’s helping. You have a very high fever.” Buck grabbed his wrists again and held them, grabbing his phone with the other hand. The words Nico had spoken were beyond his translating powers. He was pulling up Google Translate when Antonio’s call came through.

He answered it, “Antonio.”

“How is he?! Jason said Nico is very sick.”

Buck could hear the worry loud and clear. “He’s awake. Wait, hold on I’m putting you on speaker.” He put the phone on speaker and set it down near Nico. He cupped Nico’s cheek, stroking his skin gently with his thumb. He smiled tremulously when those beautiful eyes that he loved focused on him, “Hey.”

“Evan, non dovresti essere qui,” Nico repeated dully.

“Antonio, did you get that?” he asked. 

“Yes, I heard.”

“Tell me what it means,” Buck demanded.

“He said you should not be there, Evan,” Antonio said firmly.

Buck leaned closer to Nico, “What’s the rest, Nico? You said something else, too.”

“Sono malato. Non dovresti essere qui,” Nico repeated urgently.

“‘I am sick. You should not be here.’”’ Antonio repeated. “Nico, sto venendo da te.”

“NO!” Nico protested and began struggling. “Non puoi venire, Tonio.” 

“Non puoi essere solo, Nico!” 

To Buck’s ears, Antonio sounded concerned, but the way Nico was struggling and panicking, it didn’t sound like he was taking it that way. He grabbed the phone and took it off speaker, settling his hand on Nico’s cheek. 

“What did you say to him? He looks panicked and upset. What the hell, Antonio?”

“I told him I would come to him. He said I cannot come.”

Buck appreciated Antonio’s frustration and his love for his brother. At the same time, even sick, Nico was displaying his own love for his brother. 

Nico grabbed Buck’s arm, “Appointment. Must not come.”

“Did you hear that?” Buck asked. He gently began caressing Nico’s cheek with his thumb.

“Yeah, I did,” Antonio said softly. “Carmen and I have our IVF appointment in two days,” he admitted. 

Buck’s heart clenched. He felt for the man, he really did. “Antonio, I know you want to come -”

“No! Non può venire,” Nico interrupted.

“Shhh,” Buck caressed Nico’s cheek. “You’re just going to upset him by coming. So don’t. Stay home. Be safe. Go for the appointment and good luck with it,” he kept his tone steady and firm. “Is Nico allergic to any meds?”

“No. He prefers Tylenol for a fever.” Antonio began speaking rapidly, “He will only tolerate tea with milk when ill. Do not give him black tea, no matter how much he asks, he will throw up. And no caffeine, even if he cries for it. And he’s been known to cry for coffee when ill, don’t fall for it. Do not give him anything bitter, he will vomit. Milk, tea, pudding, anything and everything must have honey or sugar when he is unwell.”

Buck nodded as he registered the information being given to him. “Got it.”

“You call me if anything, Evan,” Antonio demanded. “Carmen will understand. In fact, she will be furious. Tell Nico Carmen will be furious if I don’t come.”

“Yeah, no, I’m not telling him that when he’s so clearly miserable. I’ll keep you updated. Hanging up now.” Buck disconnected the phone and set it down, his eyes locked on Nico’s.

“Non può,” Nico began, then squeezed his eyes shut, his hand tightening its hold on Buck. “Tonio cannot come,” he said haltingly. He opened his eyes and looked at Buck, “Promise me you will not allow it,” he whispered.

Buck cupped Nico’s jaw with his other hand and massaged gently, “I promise I’ll make him stay away until you are better.”

Nico relaxed at that. “You should not be here,” he whispered.

“There’s nowhere else I should be, Nico,” Buck whispered back.

“But -”

Buck shook his head and decided to start railroading Nico. “Have you taken any Tylenol?”

Nico blinked several times and seemed confused. “I-I took from the new bottle.”

Buck glanced at the bottle on the bedside table and nodded. “Do you know how many you took?” He could see Nico seemed lost at that. “Have you taken any today?”

“I… what day is it?” he whispered.

Fuck. Buck closed his eyes and prayed for strength. How long had Nico been lying there? He hadn’t even considered that it had been more than a few hours.

He grabbed his phone and called to update Jason again.

“Evan?” 

“So he’s awake, I wiped him down. He doesn’t remember when he took Tylenol last. He asked me what day it is.” Buck kept his eyes on Nico, who had closed his eyes, his face turned into Buck’s hand.

“Well fuck,” Jason sighed. “You can’t risk giving him another dose until two hours from now. Check his temperature every thirty. If it goes back up over 103, we have to get him to the ER.”

“There’s that we again,” Buck murmured as he took the washcloth off Nico’s forehead and set it back in the bowl of water. He picked up one that had been soaking in the water, squeezed it out, and gently laid it on Nico’s forehead.

Nico shivered and tried to yank it off. 

“No! Nicodemus Rossi, you stop that.”

He heard Jason chuckle. “Look at you breaking out the stern voice. I’m impressed. Now open the door.”

“J?”

“I’m outside Nico’s. I used the code to come up. Open the door.”

Buck sighed, “Coming you bossy creature.” He disconnected the call.

“Do not pretend you do not love it,” Nico whispered. He opened his eyes, “You love the bossy.”

Buck grinned and cupped Nico’s face, so damn pleased to hear him seem himself. “I do. I love the bossy, so you better get well soon so you can boss me around.” When Nico just nodded, Buck patted his cheek, “I’m going to go let Jason in, okay?”

“Okay,” he whispered.

Buck reluctantly left him and headed to the door. Pulling it open, he sighed in relief when he saw Jason standing there dressed in his LAFD uniform, armed with a bag. 

Jason stepped in and grabbed Buck up in a tight hug. “He’s going to be okay,” he whispered against his ear. “Let’s check him over, make him comfortable, and get him hydrated, okay?”

Buck nodded and squeezed Jason tight for a long moment before letting go. “Captain Kinsey, let you go?” he asked as he led Jason to the other bathroom so he could wash his hands.

“Yeah, I told him a close friend was ill. We have someone who is covering me. He said to assess, and if needed, we could ask for transport to the hospital,” Jason filled him in.

“I don’t know if it’s COVID,” Buck said honestly.

Jason sighed, “It doesn’t have to only be Covid to be a worry. That high a fever could be a sign of other problems.” He squeezed Buck’s shoulder, “Let’s not borrow trouble, okay? Let’s check him and see.”

“His voice is hoarse, and he seemed to feel better when I was massaging his jaw.”

Jason nodded. “Let’s do a temp check again, check vitals.” 

Buck’s eyes widened when he heard Nico coughing. He rushed into his room and found that he had pulled off the wash cloth again and was struggling to sit up.

“Hey, hey,” he rushed over and gently helped him sit up. 

“Hey, Nico,” Jason said gently.

“Jason,” Nico whispered.

“Is your throat hurting?” Jason sat down on the edge of the bed and opened up his bag.

“Just coughing,” Nico rubbed his chest and sagged back listlessly against the pillow.

“Okay. Do you remember when you started to feel poorly?” Jason asked gently as he checked Nico’s pulse.

Nico reached out and fisted his hand in Buck’s t-shirt. “The night Evan came to yours.” He looked at Buck. “The allergy?” he asked, seemingly confused.

“So six whole days ago?” Buck asked. He could see from the feverish sheen to Nico’s eyes that his question hadn’t been understood. Which was fair. Time had no meaning when one was sick. “Maybe you should check if his tonsils are inflamed?”

“He had a tonsillectomy when he was sixteen,” Jason said as he wrapped a blood pressure cuff around Nico’s arm. 

“Why do you know that?” Buck asked curiously.

“Because my son spent a summer obsessed with the horse Nico’s papa got him as a get-well soon present,” Jason said dryly.

Buck looked at Jason, then at Nico, “Seriously? A pony?”

“Allegro is a horse, not a pony.” Nico’s eyes opened, and he tried to yank his arm away as the cuff tightened around his arm.

Buck bit his lip as he saw Jason was already holding Nico’s arm steady.

“Evan would like a pony.” Nico’s eyes were barely open at this point. “Can I buy Evan a pony?” 

Buck blinked and looked between Nico and Jason. He had always been able to tell when Nico was referring to him or Evan, but at this moment, he couldn’t.

Jason removed the blood pressure cuff and picked up the stethoscope. “You’re not buying my Evan a pony,” he said, his tone dry as if they had had this discussion several times. His tone shifted to a fond one, “What you buy for your own Evan is between you two.”

“Hey!” Buck protested with a laugh.

Nico’s head lolled to the side, “You would not like a pony?”

“Why do I need a pony, Nico? I could ride your horse, couldn’t I?” Buck asked sweetly.

“Ev, sit beside him. He’s not going to like this against his skin,” Jason murmured.

Buck gently tugged Nico’s hand away from his chest and held it as he sat down beside him. He wrapped his arm around Nico and nodded.

“Papa will buy me something. He always buys me a gift when I am unwell or hurt,” Nico said tiredly, his head pressing back against the pillow.

“Nico, I’m sorry, but this is going to be uncomfortable,” Jason said gently. “I need you to breathe for me, okay?”

Buck and Jason looked at each other when Nico didn’t respond. Jason shook his head and lifted Nico’s t-shirt up with Buck’s help to slide the stethoscope under. Buck winced when Nico’s entire body seemed to jerk at the cold metal pressed against him. 

“I know, I know, it’s awful,” Buck turned his head and whispered against Nico’s brow. “I’m so sorry, just give it a minute.” He grabbed Nico’s hand and squeezed it. 

“Breathe, Nico, take a deep breath for me,” Jason instructed. He shook his head at Buck. 

They got through the rest of the check quickly, but it left Nico drained of what little energy he seemed to have.

Jason looked around the room, his eyes catching on the bottles of water. The full bottles of water on the bedside table. He looked from them to Buck and raised his eyebrows. Buck nodded.

“Nico,” Buck gently patted his cheek, “have you drunk any water today?”

“Today?” Nico asked tiredly.

“Today,” Buck confirmed and waited.

Nico opened his mouth, then turned away as his body went into a sudden, vicious coughing fit. Buck held him steady as Nico turned his head into his arm and coughed. And coughed. And coughed. Jason’s hand came up, gently rubbing Nico’s chest as he struggled to get his breath back.

Nico gasped tiredly and sagged back into Buck’s arms.

“I got you, I got you,” Buck crooned as he pressed his lips against Nico’s brow and rocked him gently.

“Let’s get him comfortable and then some fluids and food in him. If he’s unable to handle fluids, we’ll have to call a truck,” Jason said worriedly.

Buck pressed his cheek against Nico’s hair and looked at Jason, “Hospital?” he asked softly.

Jason shook his head, “IV fluids. Though if he doesn’t respond enough to that, then yes, hospital.”

Buck pressed his cheek against Nico’s hair and looked at Jason, “We can’t make him drink enough, can we?”

Jason shook his head. “His BP is already low. I can ask Captain Kinsey, but the 118 is closer.”

“C-Shift is on. I can ask CJ,” Buck said slowly. 

Jason gently touched Nico’s cheek, “He’s still quite hot. Hydration will make him more comfortable. We can wait a few hours and see.” He glanced at the Tylenol and water. “Let’s get this into him and a light snack.”

“Maybe toast and honey?” Buck offered. “Antonio said to give him sweet things.”

Jason nodded, “I’ll go make some.” He filled the glass on the table with water and held it out to Buck.

Buck accepted it and squeezed Nico to him. “Nico?” he gently pressed the rim of the glass against Nico’s lips, relieved when he sighed and began drinking the water. “Not a lot,” he cautioned softly. “You have to take Tylenol too.”

When Jason returned five minutes later, Buck had managed to get Tylenol and a glass of water into Nico. Then wiped his face down with the damp cloth and plumped up two pillows behind him to settle him more comfortably in bed to eat.

“Toast is ready. Let’s go. Or I can bring it here?” Jason offered carefully.

Buck raised his eyebrows at Jason. Nico was severely lacking in energy, and J was offering him a choice on where he would like to eat?

“No eating in bed,” Nico said.

Jason raised his eyebrows right back at Buck, who shrugged. Okay, so J knew some of Nico’s quirks better than Buck did. Between Buck and Jason, they had Nico standing and slowly moved out to the table. Once seated, Nico just stared at the slice of toast cut into neat little pieces. Buck looked from the toast to Jason, who shrugged.

“I cut toast into pieces for Tristan when he’s unwell,” Jason said lightly.

Buck smiled at that, then laughed when Nico extended his hand to Jason and curved his hand as if smushing his face.

“Have you eaten?” Jason asked Buck.

“A bagel with Maddie,” Buck muttered and shook his head at Jason. 

They watched Nico pick up a piece of toast and pop it into his mouth, chewing slowly. 

“Do you want more honey on it?” Jason asked.

Nico made a face as he chewed and swallowed. “More would imply you put any.”

Jason frowned, “I put a tablespoon of honey, Nico. That eucalyptus honey from your pantry.”

“I do not taste it,” Nico muttered and pushed the plate away from him. He froze and pulled the plate back, leaning in a little.

Buck stared at Jason in horror.

“Evan, I do not taste it,” Nico whispered. He wrapped his arms around himself and shivered. “You should not be there. Both of you.”

“Hey, hey, Nico,” Buck said quickly, “J and I have both been vaccinated. Both our shots, remember?”

“But,” Nico shook his head.

“Taste this.”

Nico looked up to see Jason offering him a little honey on a spoon. He reached out to take the spoon, his hand shaking enough that Jason refused to let go of the spoon and instead helped Nico taste the honey.

Nico shook his head, “I taste texture but not flavor,” he said hoarsely.

“I have a test in my bag. Let’s just go ahead and confirm it,” Jason said and walked away.

“Do you want me to get you a sweatshirt?” Buck asked gently. “You’re shivering.”

“I would like to return to my bed,” Nico whispered.

Buck wrapped his arm around Nico and squeezed gently. “In a minute, okay? Let’s just do the test and then we’ll get you back to bed.” He sighed when he felt Nico stiffen at his touch. “I promise you, I want to be here, near you, with you, and I will be just fine,” he whispered. 

In short order, Jason had tested Nico. They left the test on the table and got Nico to the bathroom when he had insisted on brushing his teeth, and then back into bed. 

“Positive,” Jason said when Buck walked out of Nico’s bedroom and joined him a few minutes later.

“I can’t leave him,” Buck stated.

“I’m not asking or expecting you to,” Jason stated in return. He sighed, “Call your captain and let him know you’ve been unmasked around someone who tested positive. If he is good with having you on shift tomorrow, I’ll come over after my shift and check in on him. I can stay, too.”

“Yeah,” Buck sighed. “I don’t think he should be alone while he’s got a fever.” He dragged his hand over his face, “I wonder if the allergy was actually this?”

“It’s something to keep in mind once he’s better. That’s when you’ll know if it’s an allergy. But best we don’t give him any citrus in his food or drinks for now,” Jason acknowledged. He squeezed Buck’s arm, “I have to go. Keep me posted. Try and get him to drink water. And keep an eye on the fever.”

Buck nodded. He squeezed Jason’s arm, “Thanks for coming over, J.”

“Hey, he got us through it with treats and good food. We’ll get him through this with our brand of TLC, right?”

Buck smiled shakily, “Right.”

—

After Jason left, Buck popped back into Nico’s bedroom and found him curled up on his side, fast asleep. He grabbed Nico’s phone from the bedside table and looked around for a charger. Not seeing one, he took it outside and plugged it in in his office. 

He texted Bobby, asking to speak, and sat down on the couch. It had been an eventful three hours since he had arrived at Nico’s, and now he had to figure out how he would handle the week after he spoke to Bobby. Realistically, he knew it was just a high fever and cough. But it was scary considering it was COVID, which was still just such a mysterious virus. And it was Nico. He was more worried about Nico being sick than he had been when he himself had had it.

When his phone buzzed in his hand, he quickly answered the call.

“Hey, Bobby. Sorry to disturb you on your day off.”

“It’s okay, kid. What’s up? Is everything okay?”

Buck sighed, “Nico tested positive. I came to check on him and was around him without a mask on. I just wanted to know what I should do next.”

“Oh, the poor guy. Symptoms?” Bobby asked immediately. 

Buck sat back, relieved at Bobby’s immediate concern for Nico. He knew Nico and Bobby had exchanged contact information after Bobby had stayed with him. Nico had even cut his hair a couple more times, which he had only found out when he had run into Bobby coming out of Nico’s apartment a few weeks ago.

“High fever. It was 103.5, but it's down to 102 now. Cough, fatigue, and loss of taste. Not sure about smell,” Buck rattled off.

Bobby sighed. “He was due for his first shot soon, right?”

“Yes, this week.”

“That’s unfortunate. Okay, keep an eye on yourself. You’ve had both shots and are in the clear, so you should come to work if you’re feeling fine.”

“Okay.”

“Does Nico have anyone who can pop in to check on him?”

Yeah, me. Buck bit back his instinctive response. “I’m here with him now. Our friend Jason will come check in on him tomorrow after his shift and, if need be, will stay with him.”

“Jason, your paramedic firefighter friend on C with Captain Kinsey, who wants to transfer to A?” Bobby asked slowly.

“Yes.” Buck had asked Bobby to keep an eye on any openings on A-shift that Jason could transfer into. He blew out a breath, “Thanks, Bobby. I’ll see you tomorrow.”

“Take care, Buck. Let Nico know he’s in my thoughts.”

“I will.”

Buck tossed his phone onto the cushion and rested his head back. He had not been able to ask Bobby if he could take a few days off to be with Nico. He wasn’t ready for the scrutiny that would bring. He wasn’t ready for Bobby to ask him how he felt about Nico. He swallowed hard and told himself it was okay. Everything would be fine. Nico had a cough. Jason had had a cough, too. And J had been back on his feet and at work within two weeks. Everything would be fine. Nico was strong and healthy. He was going to sail through this. Buck would carry him through it on his optimism if need be.

—

By the time 6 pm rolled around, Nico’s fever had been holding steady at 102 for the past hour. Buck had managed to rouse him every hour to drink water. He had also continued the tepid water compress for him that Nico had repeatedly tried to pull off. Buck was half convinced that in his feverish state, Nico thought Buck was playing a game with him by troubling him by wiping his face down.

He was stroking Nico’s forehead, just gently rubbing his thumb over his skin in a comforting motion, when Nico’s eyes slowly opened.

“There you are,” Buck said softly. “Hi.”

“Hi,” Nico whispered.

“Hungry?”

“For you?” Nico asked, his lips twisting in a small smile.

Buck smiled, “Me and some soup?”

“Not hungry.”

“Pasta?”

Nico shook his head.

“Congee?” Buck waited when Nico seemed to think that over.

“No food,” Nico whispered, then turned his head as he began coughing.

Buck gently rubbed his back, gutted that there was nothing he could do to make Nico feel better here but just be with him. It took several minutes for the cough to settle down before Nico shifted onto his back and closed his eyes as if drained of what little energy he had.

“You told Tonio not to come?” he asked softly, then cleared his throat, his face reflecting how uncomfortable he found that to be.

“Yes. You spoke to him earlier, remember?” Buck asked carefully. With how high Nico’s fever was running, he wasn’t surprised that Nico didn’t even seem to know what day it was.

“Hmm.”

Buck grabbed the glass of water off Nico’s bedside table. “Let’s try a few sips of water.”

Nico opened his eyes and stared at Buck for a moment before nodding. He held out his hand for the glass.

“Sit up first,” Buck insisted. “You can’t drink lying down.”

Nico’s expression shifted into one of displeasure, which just fascinated Buck to see. “Just pour it on me, I will open my mouth and we will be done with it.”

A laugh burst out of Buck at that absurd demand. “Yeah, that’s so not happening, Nico. Once you get better, I’ll pour all the water you want on you as you shake your hair out like a sexy model.”

Nico sighed, “You promise?” 

Buck smiled sweetly. “I promise.”

Nico slowly pushed himself up on his arms, with Buck immediately slipping an arm around him to help take his weight. Buck held the glass with Nico and encouraged him to drink. Once he was done, Nico dropped back against his pillows and sighed tiredly. 

“Tired?” Buck asked, patting him over the duvet.

“Hmm. I must shower.” 

Buck nodded at that emphatic tone. He had been expecting this. He was even surprised it had taken the entire day for Nico to want a shower.

“Will you accept a sponge bath?” he asked carefully. He really didn't think Nico had it in him to stand in the shower right now, and no way in hell was he allowing the man to soak in the tub. Not on his watch.

Nico blinked tiredly at him, “A sponge bath by you.”

Buck couldn't help but smile. Nico's lack of punctuation while texting had been charming and amusing to learn, but the fact that he seemed to lose it now while speaking was adorable.

“Are you asking for one or informing me I am giving you a sponge bath, Nico?” Buck teased sweetly.

“I am uncertain,” Nico admitted with a small laugh. He sighed, “Alas, a sponge bath, even one given by you, will not do, Evan. For one, I do not have a sponge and for two,” he paused and grimaced, I need a water pouring over me bath.”

Buck shook his head, a fond smile on his face. “The sponge bath is not literally with a sponge, though that also works. I can use a hand towel. Hell, I don't even have to do anything. If you want, I can set it up for you, and you can wipe yourself down,” Buck quickly offered. “You really don't have the energy for a shower, Nico.”

“I need to be clean,” Nico said softly.

His tone was even but the way he was grimacing and avoiding touching his skin told Buck how distressing he found the entire situation. And Buck just wanted to make things better for him.

“Do you think a bath would do? I can fill the tub, put those oils of yours, and you can have a soak and then come right out,” Buck offered his next solution. He would hover right by the door if Nico was in the bath.

Buck watched Nico slowly push himself up into a seated position, his face expressing exactly how much toll the movement took out of him. 

Nico shuddered, “Stew in my own filth? No.” 

Buck's jaw dropped open before he laughed. “Stew in! Nico! You are not filthy!”

“My mind is plenty filthy when need be, and today my body feels it has joined hands with it,” Nico huffed.

Buck wanted to coo at Nico huffing of all things. He forced himself to focus.

“You love baths! You soak once a week and post sexy pictures of your legs and feet in the bath,” he protested.

Nico waved his hand, “I soak clean. I shower and get in the tub.”

Buck smiled, “You sweet man.” He sighed and rested his hand on Nico’s knee, “I’m worried you won't be able to stand through a shower. You've barely eaten in days.” He knew Nico hadn’t been eating. His dishwasher had been empty.

Nico sighed heavily and tossed the duvet off him. “Evan, you may monitor me or even climb into the shower with me, but I am going to shower.”

Buck watched Nico slowly press his feet onto the floor before he slowly pushed himself up with energy he didn’t have. Buck quickly moved forward and grabbed Nico’s upper arms to help him gain his balance. 

“I got you,” he murmured. “Take a moment to steady yourself. Are you dizzy?”

Nico’s hands gripped Buck’s sides. “I need a moment.” 

“Take all the time you need,” Buck murmured. 

Nico, for once, felt small in front of him. Buck was surprised to see just how much weight he seemed to have lost in just a few days. He frowned and calculated when he had last seen Nico properly and realized it had been ten days since they had actually spent any significant time together. Nico had been busy and tired.

“How long have you been feeling poorly?” he asked carefully. 

He let go of Nico’s arms and slid his hands gently down his sides. “You've lost weight.” 

“I have been dreaming of you feeling me up, and it has lived up to expectation.”

Buck chuckled and took the opportunity presented to wrap his arms around Nico, tugging him into a firm hug.

“We shouldn’t,” Nico whispered his body going rigid in Buck’s arms.

“I don't care anymore, Nico,” Buck whispered. “Please.”

Nico remained rigid for a long moment before melting against him, sliding his own arms around Buck and holding on. Buck squeezed Nico to him and held on.

When Nico began shivering, Buck decided it was time to let go. He squeezed Nico again and slowly released him. 

“Come on, let's get you clean and changed. Then you're sitting and attempting to eat.”

Nico nodded against his shoulder and pulled back. 

Buck wrapped his arm around Nico and walked him to the ensuite bathroom where he leaned him against the counter. 

“You're cool with me climbing in with you, right? Cause you don't seem like you can stand on your own for long,” Buck asked carefully.

“That is fine.” Nico nudged his chin toward the shower. “Or I could just sit and shower.”

“Sit?” Buck asked, surprised that Nico would voluntarily suggest sitting on the shower floor. He turned to look at the enclosed shower and blinked at the marble ledge attached to the wall. Perfect to sit and shower.

He looked and Nico and raised his eyebrows. “Is this how you've been showering?”

Nico nodded, his little smile on his face.

“You little troll,” Buck muttered. “No wonder you knew you'd be okay showering,” he said with a smile. “Alright then, in you go. A quick shower. Don’t bend. Keep the water room temp to warm but no cold water at all. I'll grab you a change of clothes. What do you want?”

“In the drawer right outside the door, you will find PJ sets. I would like the green one. Thank you.”

“You're welcome. Call out if you need me, okay? I'm right here.”

Nico nodded and began stripping off.

Buck turned away and grabbed a fresh towel from the linen closet in the bathroom and hung it up on the shower door. He left the bathroom when Nico began tugging his sweats off.

Pulling the door almost all the way shut, Buck eyed the bed and nodded. A change of sheets was in order. He opened the drawer and located the PJs Nico wanted. He paused, Nico had not mentioned underwear. He shrugged and moved on. His demanding darling would ask for a pair if he wanted it. 

Stripping off the bed, he tossed everything to the side to be washed. He knew Nico would feel better about sleeping on fresh sheets. Between the germs and sweat and chills of fever Buck figured Nico was uncomfortable enough and every little bit would help.

He eyed the stripped bed and decided against calling out and interrupting Nico’s shower to ask where he kept his bed linens. He could make the bed while Nico sat outside and ate. He grabbed the duvet and shook it out. Nico had been sleeping with a sheet between the duvet and himself, he figured that would make the duvet acceptable to go back on the bed.

“Evan!”

Buck dumped the duvet on the bed and rushed into the bathroom. “Nico?” He froze at the blurred sight of Nico with water flowing over him.

“Linen is in the bottom shelf from the PJs.”

Buck blinked. “How’d you know I needed sheets?”

Nico turned and looked at him, “I know you know me.”

Buck smiled slowly, his heart full of everything for this man. “I do know you,” he said, past the emotions filling his throat. He cleared his throat, “Start drying off.”

“I may like this.”

“This?” Buck asked curiously.

“You being the bossy one.”

Buck grinned and ducked back out of the bathroom. “I may like it too,” he called out.

He looked through Nico’s sheets, surprised and pleased to see the shades of color - sage green, midnight blue, lilac. The ones he had pulled off were a steel grey. He selected the green and efficiently made the bed. He added the top sheet, changed the pillowcases, and fluffed the pillows before draping the duvet over the bed. He stood back and surveyed the bed, then turned toward the bathroom only to find Nico leaning against the doorway, his arms crossed over his chest, dressed in his soft PJs, his damp hair slicked back from his face.

“Feeling better?” he asked.

“Hmm,” Nico hummed tiredly. “I must sit down,” he confessed. He took the few steps to his bed and sank down before Buck could reach him.

Nico scooted back a bit and remained seated, tugging his legs up and resting his head on his knee.

“You are sure you must be here?” 

“I am sure I am exactly where I should be,” Buck said firmly.

“I am scared to touch you,” Nico whispered. 

Buck carefully caught Nico’s wrist and tugged his hand away from where it was wrapped around his ankle. He tugged Nico’s hand into his own and rubbed his thumb against the back of his hand.

“The germs,” Nico protested, turning his head to look at Buck.

“It’s fine,” Buck assured him.

“It is really, truly not.”

“You wash your hands better than half of America, remember?” Buck teased. “I’m sure you washed your hands in your normal thorough fashion, Nico. And you had a shower so you’re all clean.” It was in fact only today that Buck had clued in that Nico’s hand washing was part of some coping mechanism and not just the ‘germs thing’ he had previously mentioned it to be, and that he washed his hands in the exact same manner even when completely lacking in energy.

“I did.”

“You did,” Buck reassured him even though he wasn’t sure if it was a question or statement. “You also ate half a toast with honey, remember that?”

Nico’s fingers curled against his. “Loss of taste.”

“Yes, loss of taste. Which I know isn’t encouraging you to want to eat. But you have to try eating something. Whatever you want, I’ll get it,” Buck tempted him.

“Biscuits. There is a tin of Cadbury biscuits in the coffee table.”

Buck blinked. “In the coffee table?” As far as he knew, Nico’s coffee table didn’t have any drawers.

Nico squeezed Buck’s fingers. “You lift the top and inside are my treasures. Purple tin of biscuits.”

Buck thought the chocolate could potentially irritate Nico’s throat, but wanted him to have whatever he was craving. 

“Biscuits and a glass of milk? Or tea?” Buck offered.

“Coffee?” Nico asked hopefully, his voice a mere whisper.

Buck trailed his fingers down Nico’s cheek, “You don’t like the sound of cold milk with biscuits?” When Nico just shrugged, Buck patted his cheek, “We’ll do cold milk and a cup of coffee. You drink whatever you like best, okay? Can I bring you a tray in here?”

Nico began worrying the corner of his lower lip with his teeth. “No eating in bed,” he said reluctantly.

Buck figured that was another rule that Nico wasn’t happy with, but hadn’t shed yet. He nodded. “Let’s go out then.” He patted Nico’s cheek and reluctantly pulled his hand away.

They moved slowly. Nico’s body seemed to have gotten stiff and sore in the few minutes he had been seated. Buck stood and held out his hands to Nico who after a moment of deliberation slid his hands into Buck’s and stood up. When he tried to tug his hands away, Buck refused to let go.

“Are we to hold hands and you walk backward?” Nico asked with a raised eyebrow.

Buck grinned to see it. “Yup! I’m awesome like that.”

Nico smiled his small smile and slowly walked with Buck, holding his hands and walking backward. He prayed he wouldn’t bump into anything but figured if he did, it would only serve to amuse Nico further, and he was very okay with that.

Once Nico was seated on the couch, which looked like it took a lot out of him, Buck turned to the large coffee table. He glanced at Nico, then leaned down and grabbed the edges and lifted. He frowned when it didn’t move and tried again. He glanced at Nico, who lifted his hand and pushed down, then turned his hand and moved it up. Looking back at the table, Buck gently pressed down and lifted up, smiling as it lifted up like a lid. He gently lifted it back on its hinges and crouched down, staring in surprise at the amount of treats hidden in there.

He noticed a lot of Cadbury boxes and assumed they were from Europe since Nico refused to touch American Cadbury.He found the purple tin and lifted it out.

“Do you want anything else from in here, or shall I close it?” He asked Nico.

Nico shook his head. “I will have need of my phone, please. I must charge it.”

Buck nodded and carefully placed the lid of the table back into place, pressing down gently and feeling it lock in. He set the biscuit tin on the table and focused on Nico. 

“Phone, Milk, coffee, and biscuits coming right up.”

Buck got Nico’s phone from his office, where he had put it to charge, and offered it to him. “I charged it for you.”

“Grazie mille.” Nico offered him a tired smile.

Buck ran his hand over Nico’s hair and headed to the kitchen. He had not forgotten Antonio’s advice about how Nico reacted to coffee and bitter food and liquid when unwell. He set the kettle to boil and poured out a small glass of milk, and added a small bit of milk to Nico’s decaf cup. He felt only a little uneasy, tricking him, but he figured that with Nico being unable to taste anyway, he could risk adding a little sugar to the coffee rather than risk him being able to taste it as is.

He set a tray with both the cups and a plate for the cookies down on the coffee table and settled down on the floor so he could easily pass the cups back and forth from the table without Nico needing to lean forward.

“Coffee.”

Buck handed Nico the cup and watched him inhale, their eyes locked together. Nico frowned and shook his head.

“The lack of taste is off-putting itself. Coupled with loss of smell, it is a horror-making,” Nico muttered.

Buck gently rubbed Nico’s knee. “My poor baby.” He hadn’t meant to say it, but at this point, his brain-to-mouth filter was glitching out of sheer worry.

Nico sighed, “This is not how I imagined becoming your baby.” He met Buck’s eyes, “Fuck 2021. It put Baby in the corner.”

Buck sighed and leaned in, resting his chin on Nico’s knee, “Fuck 2021. I’ll tug Baby back out of the corner. Or go into the corner with my Baby.”

Nico rested back against the couch and waved his hand at Buck, “Have a biscuit, Potter.”

Buck laughed, “Thank you, Professor.” He bent his head and kissed Nico’s knee. They would get through this together in their own silly, fun manner. He was sure of it.

—

Thursday

Buck's eyes opened, and he was rolling off the couch before he even processed it. He headed into Nico's bedroom and sank to his knees beside the bed, rubbing Nico’s back as the man went through another coughing fit. He slipped his other arm around him and rubbed Nico’s chest, hoping to soothe him.

He wasn’t sure what was more alarming to him, the fever that kept shooting up to 103 or the vicious cough that would suddenly come on and leave Nico choking and gasping for breath. 

“Should not be here,” Nico whispered as he sank back into the pillow and curled up.

That was another thing he had discovered. Nico got softer when he was sick. Or he was whispering because speaking in his normal soft tone brought on a coughing fit. Either way, it hurt Buck’s heart.

“I’m exactly where I need to be,” Buck said softly as he had the last several times Nico had said that. “Come on, sit up a little and drink some water. You’ll feel better for it.”

Nico sighed and shifted, slowly pushing himself up on one shaky arm. Buck immediately slipped his arm around him to hold him steady and held a glass of water to his lips. He felt Nico stiffen at his touch, but he drank the water down thirstily, which Buck was relieved by. He was worried that Nico seemed to be withdrawing from him physically; he held himself tight when Buck touched him, which was a drastic change from how free and comfortable they had been in each other’s physical space from the get go. He told himself it was just Nico’s worry over making Buck sick and nothing else. It couldn’t be anything else.

Nico shifted back to sit up against the pillows and sighed heavily. “What is the time?”

Buck gently rubbed Nico’s chest, “Just past 3 am.”

Nico met Buck’s eyes, “It is a work day for you?” At Buck’s nod, he gently touched Buck’s sleeve with his fingertips, “Then soon it is time for you to begin getting ready.”

“I don’t want to leave you,” Buck confessed.

“I would keep you with me forever, but you would be bored doing nothing.”

Buck smiled at the teasing tone. “I wouldn’t be bored. I’d just spend all my time staring at you and worshipping at the altar of Nicodemus.”

Nico stared at him and then started laughing. Which led to another coughing fit. Which led to Buck apologizing for making him laugh.

Nico waved his hand as the coughing fit subsided. “It is good to find joy in life even in trying times.” He patted Buck’s arm, “You must help yourself to my fridge and pantry. It is stocked. And do not worry so, Evan. It is just a fever.”

Buck stared at him, “And a vicious, vicious cough.”

Nico lifted one shoulder in a shrug, “So it is fussy flu.”

Buck shook his head, he knew Nico was downplaying it to make him feel better about leaving. Nico had been vigilant for over a year about COVID. Had treated it seriously and continued to be cautious. But he appreciated Nico wanting to make him feel better.

He brushed Nico’s hair back off his forehead and pressed his palm against his skin. He figured the fever was still lingering around 102.5 to 103, that it had been at last check.

“Will you eat something with me?” 

Nico had eaten two cookies last night and drank the milk, declaring him eating a waste of his biscuits since he couldn’t taste them. 

“What is the point without taste?”

“Energy for your body to fight off the fussy flu?” Buck offered.

Nico sighed heavily, “I suppose if you would be logical about it.”

Buck smiled, “I will be. All the levels of logical.”

—

As 6:30 am rolled around, Buck sat brushing Nico's hair off his forehead. They had both slept fitfully all night. Nico had sudden, intense bouts of coughing that left him gasping for breath and then drained of energy. Small mercies were that he drifted off to sleep soon after. He gently slid his hand down and pressed the back of his hand against Nico's forehead. He knew the thermometer was accurate, but he continued to be hopeful that the heat wasn't radiating out of his skin. He hurriedly pulled his hand away when Nico moaned in discomfort. He cupped his cheek, brushing his thumb gently under Nico's eye to soothe him.

He glanced at the time again and knew he was cutting it close. He had to leave. But he didn't want to leave Nico while he was asleep.

With great reluctance, he began patting his cheek. "Nico, baby, wake up." He winced. It seemed like now that he had called Nico his baby and hadn't been rejected for it, he couldn't stop.

Nico leaned his face into Buck's hand and slowly opened his eyes.

"I have to go to work," Buck whispered. "Can I bring your charger in here so you can charge your phone when the battery goes low?" 

Nico bit his bottom lip and began chewing on it. 

"Hey, hey, Nico, no," Buck said soothingly. When Nico didn't stop, he gently pressed his thumb against Nico's bottom lip, applying a little bit of pressure to get him to let go. He was loath to use the endearment as it felt a tad manipulative with the sweet way Nico was responding to it, but he had to use what worked right now.

"Baby, is there a reason your phone charger can't be in your bedroom?" He asked carefully. Nico's eyes widening told him he had asked the right question.

"I," Nico began, then trailed off. He swallowed hard and grabbed Buck's wrist, "No chargers in the bedroom, Evan," he pleaded.

"Okay, okay," Buck whispered. He jumped onto the next option. "How about a power bank? Can you have a power bank in your bedroom and use it to charge your phone? I'm going to check in with you every hour or so, and I'd worry if I can't get in touch with you." Yup, Buck was going to hell for manipulating the man he loved when he was unwell. And he was okay with that.

Nico nodded, "No rule about power bank."

"Great. I'll leave you mine. I just need you to do your best to see if the battery is dying and charge it, okay? Can you do that for me, baby?" Buck asked sweetly. When Nico nodded, he bent down and kissed his forehead. "Thank you."

Buck went and grabbed his power bank from his bag and brought it into Nico. He set it on the bed beside his phone within easy reach. He knew he was probably behaving like a lunatic and babying Nico, but the man's state yesterday had frightened him. He was terrified of losing his love when he had only just admitted to himself that he was in love. He was aware this was a him problem, but he didn’t have the mental and emotional energy to deal with it in his current situation.

“You must eat.”

The last thing Buck wanted was to eat. But he couldn’t admit that to Nico. 

“Will you eat with me?” he asked instead.

“I wish to sleep,” Nico whispered. “I ate the toast.”

Buck and Nico had eaten a snack of toast with avocado at 3 am. After which Nico had insisted on brushing his teeth. 

Nico touched his fingertips against Buck’s chest, “Be safe, Evan.”

As Nico’s eyes slipped closed, Buck tucked the duvet around him and allowed himself a minute to just sit and watch him.

—

“J.” Buck pressed his back against the wall and held his phone to his ear.

“So, fever was back to 103. He took a Tylenol, gave me that utterly unimpressed stare for bringing him waffles and bacon.He ate fruit, nearly drank a cup of coffee before I took it away and then threw me out.”

Buck raised his eyebrows, “He threw you out?”

“He asked me to leave. I quote, ‘Thank you for your aid. You may now leave.’ He then shut his bedroom door, which I took to be a further dismissal.”

“And you left?” Buck asked in disbelief. That was not the J he knew.

“Well, I cut up some more fruit for him and portioned all the food his brother sent for him. Switched off the dryer. And hid his coffee in your apartment. Then I left.”

Buck laughed, “That’s my J. And of course, Nico did laundry.” He sighed, “So he’s okay?”

“I wouldn’t say he’s okay. But he’s doing okay. He is a bit delirious when the fever is shooting up, and the cough is terrible, of course.”

“His blood pressure?”

“Low. But that’s expected,” Jason said gently.

“He didn’t wonder how you got in?” Buck asked cautiously. He had taken a major liberty by giving Jason the spare key he had for Nico and taking Nico’s key for himself.

“Oh, I called him and asked if I could let myself in,” Jason said easily.

“And he said yes,” Buck stated.

“And he said yes. I have seen the fussy, Rossi side of Nico, and I would not care to have that turned on me.”

“I really wanna hear that story. The Nico I know is always so… contained and even.”

“I’ll tell you the story another day,” Jason said, amused. “But what I will tell you now is that I have seen Nico when he is ill, and he’s following a new manner of wanting his space. He’s been smothered by his family for the past two years, Ev, with love, but still smothered. And hovering, too many people or even one hovering and pushing him to do what he doesn’t want to do, leads to him pulling away and closing himself out.”

Buck nodded, “So you’re treating him with care and space.”

“Yes. I told him if he doesn’t answer my call each time he’s awake, I’ll show up. And he knows me well enough to know that if he doesn’t call me and check in every time he’s awake, I’ll show up. So you focus on your job and I’ll take Nico check in duty. And we can switch tomorrow.”

“Thanks, J,” Buck said softly.

“I got your back, Ev. We’ll get Nico through this like he got us through it.”

—

“You’ve been quiet.”

Buck looked away from his phone at Bobby and just shrugged.

“How’s Nico?” he asked softly.

Buck appreciated the soft tone. He did not need anyone to overhear their conversation and use it as fodder to tease him. He waved his phone, “He’s awake and watching Resident Evil. Because watching a movie about a contagion is the thing to do when down with what he’s referring to as a fussy flu.”

Bobby laughed, “That’s charming, Buck.” He sighed, “You’re worried,” he stated.

“I am,” Buck admitted. He knew his feelings were safe with Bobby. But he wasn’t ready for this conversation to go further.

“Kid,” Bobby said gently, “you wanna go home?”

Buck looked sharply at Bobby and relaxed at seeing the affectionate expression on his face. The one he had dubbed the ‘Indulgent Dad’ look after seeing the same on Tristan and Jason’s faces all too often. “No.” He sighs, “Jason visited him and checked up on him. Fever dropped to 101. And eventually he insisted J go home to his family.”

“I know you probably don’t want to hear this, but it’s a good sign if he wants his space. He’s watching TV, getting to and from the bathroom on his own?” 

Buck nodded at Bobby’s question. “Yeah, he’s shaky, but he’s been going to the bathroom unaided and took a shower last night. He even did laundry today. I think he’s been sick for a few days and powered through quietly on his own.”

“There you go. He’s an independent man. But he doesn’t seem to me to be too proud to ask for help when he needs it. You worry because you care, but try and remember that he looks to be getting through this without any issues so far.”

Buck nodded and slouched back, folding his arms across his chest. “I know. I know.”

“Anything you want to tell me?” Bobby asked gently.

“No.” Buck felt his face flush and shook his head. “Not yet.”

Bobby squeezed Buck’s knee, “Okay, I’m here when you do. Do you want me to try and have your shifts covered this week if you want to stay home with Nico?”

Buck knew he should refuse. That things were still rough. He almost said yes, then shook his head. “No. I’m good to be here, I promise.”

“I trust you to tell me if you aren’t, Buck.”

Buck watched Bobby walk away and knew he had made the right decision. Unless the situation with Nico’s health changed drastically, he wouldn’t be able to justify staying home at this time. He just hoped the only changes to Nico’s health were favorable ones.

—

"Why are you wearing a mask?" Chimney asked as he leaned by the kitchen table. He was on dishwasher unloading duty, but so far had dawdled on it.

Buck wanted to snap back with a sarcastic response cause there were only so many reasons he could have been wearing a mask. Then decided to just be nice.

"I visited a friend yesterday who later tested positive," he said simply.

"WHAT?!" Chimney circled the counter, "And you didn't think to tell me? Tell Maddie? Jee-Yun? After you exposed us?" he demanded loudly.

Buck noticed Chimney didn't tack Albert on in that list, too. He stared at Chimney. "I met him yesterday," he said slowly, "after I dropped Albert home from doing you a last-minute favor by spending two hours of my day taking your brother to the doctor, waiting outside for him, and then dropping him home." He had raised his voice just enough that the curious crew who were watching them could hear his side, too. No way in hell was Han going to turn him into the bad guy here.

Chimney had the grace to look abashed. But continued blathering anyway. "Still," he insisted, "you should have told me." He spread his arms as if realizing he had an audience, “Told us!" 

"I'm not disclosing someone's medical condition just because you're nosy, Howard. I informed my Captain, and that's all that was required of me." Buck stared at Chimney, daring him to unload further on him. He had had enough of Howard Han's thoughts for the day.

"But," Chimney began.

"That's enough," Bobby said firmly as he joined them. He came and sat down next to Buck, which made people settle back into what they were doing. "Have you done your part of the kitchen chores?" 

"Not yet," Chimney admitted.

"Then get to it," Bobby said calmly.

Chimney stared at Buck for another moment, then turned and moved to the dishwasher. 

"That shouldn't have even been necessary," Buck muttered.

"I agree, it shouldn't have. But since it did happen, it's now done," Bobby said.

Buck sighed, slouched down, and crossed his arms over his chest, his phone clenched in his hand.

Bobby nudged Buck's shoulder. "You check in with him?"

Buck glanced at Bobby and nodded, "Yeah. He's been sleeping a lot. Fever spikes back up to 103, then Tylenol brings it down in about ninety minutes.”

"COVID is still so unknown, Buck. The high fever could be part of how his system is fighting through it."

Buck sighed heavily, "I know. I'm just worried. And I can't seem to turn it off."

"You're a good friend. A good person. Being worried for someone you love is not a bad thing," Bobby said gently.

Buck flushed. He didn't know why Bobby had used the word love, and he wasn't going to ask. He wasn't ready.

"Thanks, Pops," he said softly and relaxed when Bobby slung his arm around him.

—

Eddie sat down beside Buck.

“Nico’s mad at me.”

Buck blinked and looked away from his book to Eddie. “Um. Context?”

Eddie waved his phone at Buck.

“I recommended the Avengers series to him and now he’s pissed at me,” Eddie stated.

“Nico’s pissed at you. Over the Avengers,” Buck said slowly.

“He said they were violent, brutal, barbaric, and had no care for human life, with the scenes of prolonged destruction. And that I am no longer allowed to recommend media to him,” Eddie said grumpily.

Buck pressed his lips together and hoped the mask helped hide his amusement. 

“This isn’t funny, Buck!” Eddie snapped. 

“No, of course not,” Buck said soothingly. “Maybe it’s the fever,” he offered.

“I hope so!” Eddie shifted and turned to face him. “What does it say that the man who laughed at the Jurassic series, who found the dinosaurs eating people to be hilarious and karmic justice, finds the Avengers series so offensive?”

“Nico would most likely use the word off-putting instead of offensive.”

Eddie huffed, “Yeah, cause Nico’s posh language is what matters. I let my kid watch those movies, Buck!”

“Yeah,” Buck said slowly, “we all watched them together. And Chris and I are looking forward to watching the next Spider-Man when it releases.”

Eddie threw up his hands, “What if I’m damaging my sweet baby boy by letting him watch these violent, brutal, barbaric movies that have no care for human life?” he demanded. He smacked Buck’s knee, “This is not funny!”

Buck patted Eddie’s shoulder.

“Don’t there, there, me Evan!” Eddie said sternly.

Buck snickered, “Thanks, Eds, I needed this.” He sighed, “First, don’t refer to your son as your sweet baby boy. He’s growing up and sulks when you do it publicly. I’ve been looking for a way to bring this up with you, so thanks for the perfect moment. Second, your sweet baby boy enjoyed those movies for what they were, entertainment, and hasn’t once questioned the pure chaos of it. If he does, then yeah, it’s something to discuss with him. But otherwise, don’t borrow trouble, man.”

Eddie sighed, “Are you sure? Should I talk to him? Maybe mention it to his therapist?”

“What, so his therapist can ask him about the violent, barbaric movies you allow him to watch like most other kids his age?” Buck waved his hand toward Bobby, who was sitting at the table doing his paperwork. “Besides, why are you asking childless me? Shouldn’t you be asking someone like Bobby?”

Eddie rolled his eyes. “No, I asked the right person. The guy who is there for my kid every day. The guy who shows up and puts in the work. The guy whose opinion I respect, value, and invite.”

Buck blinked, “Aww, bud, don’t make me cry. I’m on the edge as is.”

Eddie patted Buck’s chest, “There, there,” he grinned.

“Asshole,” Buck said fondly.

Eddie winked, “Takes one to know one.”

Buck smiled and settled more comfortably against the couch. “Nico messaged you?” he asked softly.

“Yeah. He’s in bed watching the series. Said he felt poorly, so he figured it was time to watch the series. He’s kinda bitchy in an adorable way when he’s sick.”

Buck laughed, “He’s so adorable.”

“I won’t feel bad if you take his side like a traitor and hate on the Avengers,” Eddie promised.

“You better not. But also kinda offended that you think I’m that much of a suck up to him.”

“Uh huh. Tell me I’m wrong,” Eddie challenged.

Buck grinned and averted his eyes.

—

Friday

Buck told himself the entire drive home that he wouldn’t rush to Nico. That he would go to his apartment, put his things away and change out of his clothes, and then go over. But the moment the elevator opened to their floor, Buck strode over to Nico’s door and let himself in. 

“Nico?” He raised his voice a little, “It’s me.”

“We’re in here.”

Buck blinked at Jason’s voice. He dumped his bag, took off his shoes, and moved to Nico’s bedroom.

“Hi,” he said tentatively as he took in Jason sitting cross-legged on Nico’s bed. 

“I am being punished,” Nico whispered and waved his hand toward his forehead, where Jason had just placed a cold compress.

Buck stepped in and sank down on his knees by Nico’s bed. “Yeah? What are you being punished for?”

Nico’s eyes shifted to the side to look at Jason. 

“Go on,” Jason encouraged, “tell your Evan how you lied to me.”

“I uttered no lies,” Nico waved the accusation away. He looked at Buck, “I did eat.”

Buck smiled at him, “That’s good.”

“He neglected to tell me that he threw up. All day yesterday. After every single thing he ate.”

Buck winced internally. Jason’s tone was calm. His dad tone that invoked a ton of guilt. He could see Nico was not similarly affected.

“The deal was eat and hydrate. The deal was not report on such behavior from my body,” Nico said airily.

Buck couldn’t help but laugh. He shook his head at Jason’s raised eyebrows. “Sorry, but it’s true. We didn’t cover all our bases.”

“Evan.” Jason’s tone carried a mix of exasperation and humor.

Nico smiled smugly at Jason. Buck was glad his love was amused even while exhausted. 

“It is time to shower,” Nico stated firmly.

Jason sighed heavily, “Are you willing to sit on the bench and just let the water flow over you?”

“Soap,” was all Nico said.

“Soap, upper body, no bending,” Jason negotiated firmly.

“Deal,” Nico said simply.

Jason glanced at Buck, “Nico has a nice shower bench.”

“I know.” Buck raised his eyebrows at Jason, “How do you know this?”

“I’m familiar with his work,” Jason said with a little smile about his lips, the cause of which Buck had no hope of deciphering. It was his smile that said J would share the information when the time was right.

Buck shook his head at him and patted Nico’s leg. “Want me to get everything ready for you and set out your clothes?”

Nico nodded, “I would welcome that.”

“Give me a moment. I’ll just go wash my hands,” Buck said quickly. 

Buck returned in a minute after a thorough hand washing and found Nico slowly getting out of bed with Jason standing by ready to help him. Knowing J had that well in hand, he hurried into the bathroom and stopped when he saw Nico’s towel hanging neatly on the shower door bar. He made his way back out.

“Which PJ’s today, Nico?”

“You may decide for me,” Nico said tiredly.

Buck ran his fingers over the sets in the drawer and pulled out a baby blue set with its matching t-shirt. It was so damn cute that he had matching PJ sets in the softest cotton fabric. He set it down on the bathroom counter and smiled at Nico, who was walking into the bathroom. 

“Nico, I’m going to start making the pancakes. They’ll be on the table in twelve minutes,” Jason said. “Do you think you can try eating in bed?”

Nico stared straight ahead. He folded his arms across his chest and looked down. “No eating in bed.”

“Okay, see you outside,” Jason said easily.

Buck stared at the rigid manner Nico held himself in. He stepped up to him and gently rubbed his back. When Nico slowly relaxed, Buck gave in to the urge to hug him. He wrapped his arms around Nico from behind and squeezed. It took a moment before Nico leaned back into him, his arms falling by his sides.

“Want me to change your sheets?” Buck asked softly.

“It is not rational to do so.”

“But it’ll make you feel better.”

“It will make me feel better. But wasteful to the environment.”

Buck thought quickly for a solution. He nodded. “You’ve only been sleeping on one side, right?”

“Sì.”

“How about I turn the sheet? And swap the pillows?”

“I… that would be nice,” Nico said slowly. 

Buck squeezed Nico again. “I’ll go do that, then while you have a quick shower.”

“You have not offered to shower me or supervise me today.”

Buck grinned at Nico’s teasing through that flat tone of his. “Want me to come wash your hair for you? I give an excellent head massage.”

“I do too. Evan is my best client for having a hair wash in the kitchen sink.”

“I’ll take you up on it when you’re feeling better,” Buck said boldly. “I’ll totally wash your hair for you.”

“Today.”

“Today.” Buck probably shouldn’t find Nico’s utter lack of punctuation while speaking to be so charming. But it was. Even unwell, the man was everything for him.

“Sure.”

“Are you doubting me, Mr. Rossi?” 

“Sì.”

Buck let go of Nico and took a step back. By the time Nico had turned around, Buck was unbuttoning his shirt.

Nico folded his arms across his chest and looked at Buck, his little smile playing about his mouth. “Non sei serio.”

Buck blinked as he quickly translated that. You are not serious. He held Nico’s eyes as he unbuttoned his shirt all the way. “Sono serio.”

“Sei,” Nico began, then paused and shook his head. “You are a light in my life, Evan,” he said haltingly.

Buck felt tears fill his eyes at his man’s soft, wonderful words. “As you are mine,” he said shakily.

“I suppose for today I shall manage this shower on my own.”

Buck sniffed and nodded. “Okay. Call if you need me.”

“I always need you.” Nico smiled and turned toward the shower door, tugging his t-shirt off. 

Buck watched for a moment, then began backing away to the door and meeped when Nico dropped his sleep pants. He allowed himself a quick glimpse of his ass, which was gorgeous as expected and backed right out of the bathroom, pulling the door almost all the way closed.

“Stop it, Buckley,” he scolded to himself and took a moment to take a few steadying breaths. When he heard the shower turn on, he nodded and moved to remake Nico’s bed.

He wanted to linger in the bedroom and wait for Nico, but he also wanted to give the man his privacy. He made himself walk out. He wanted to find out more from Jason, and this would be the time to do it.

“I didn’t expect you today since I would be here for the day,” he said as he joined Jason. “You made pancake batter?”

“I brought pancake batter because Carmen made it for Nico.” Jason waved his hand, “Between her, Tonio, and Tris, the fridge is stocked with food Nico likes in hopes of getting him to eat it. There’s enough for both of you.” He glanced at Buck and paused, slowly running his eyes down Buck’s chest and back up. “Something you wanna tell me, Ev?”

Buck glanced down at himself and blushed. He hurriedly began doing up his buttons. “I was just joking with Nico.” It had definitely not been a joke.

Jason smirked, “Okay.”

“Seriously!” Buck huffed.

“I said okay,” Jason said serenely.

“You’re the worst!”

“I am.”

Buck laughed and relaxed against the counter. He lowered his voice, “Seriously, why are you here so early? Your non-work mornings are usually all about Evan and Tristan.”

“Nico was on a video call with his parents when he began gagging and tossed the phone aside to go throw up. It freaked them out and they then proceeded to freak Tonio out and after some mutual freaking out, here I am.” Jason slid the pancake off the pan and poured out more batter in a neat circle. “It’s no problem. Evan’s been most well-behaved since he found out Nico’s unwell. He demanded I report back to him on Nico’s condition and that he’d like a bagel as a treat.”

“Ev is always well-behaved. He’s an angel,” Buck said. “He’s my precious,” he said in his best Gollum voice.

Jason started laughing. “Okay, Gollum.”

“Nico hasn’t coughed. So that’s good, right?” Buck asked softly.

Jason lifted one shoulder in a shrug, “It is. But also not. He’s not coughing often. But when it comes on, it’s rough and leaves him very uneasy. The fever is still shooting up but controlled with OTC meds. It’s the nausea I’m now most worried about.” He looked at Buck, “He doesn’t have much energy left. He’s barely eating, has barely eaten for eight or so days now, and if what little he is eating is coming back up…” he trailed off and shook his head. 

“What about getting him an IV?” Buck suggested.

Jason nodded, “That’s the next option. For today, we’ll do electrolytes all day and see how it goes.”

Buck felt a shift in the energy of the room and turned, smiling when he saw Nico walking out of his bedroom. Even unwell, Nico’s energy radiated out like a force to Buck. It felt like a hug.

“You look so adorable in baby blue.” He blinked. He had not meant to blurt that out. He could feel Jason’s amusement.

Nico ran his hand down his chest. “Grazie. The blue reminds me of your eyes.”

Buck stared at Nico, surprised by the easy statement. He’d noticed Nico had begun wearing a fair amount of blues. Was that because of him?

“Jason, you will tell my parents I am not dying.”

Jason turned with a stack of pancakes on a plate. “I already did. Several times. Over the past two days.”

Nico sighed, “They did not believe you.”

“I don’t know how else to sell it, Nico. I told them the truth. That you’re unwell but taking care of yourself.”

Nico narrowed his eyes at Jason. “Truly?”

Jason looked at Nico, “Truly. You are taking care of yourself to the best of your ability. I truly believe you would be fine handling this without us. But I’m glad you don’t have to handle it alone.” He smiled, “Now come, try one pancake and an egg for me.”

“Perhaps Evan can speak to my parents.”

Buck looked between Nico and Jason, then pointed to himself. 

“You think that would help?” Jason asked as he beckoned Buck to the table and filled a plate for him.

“He is more…,” Nico cocked his head to the side and waved a fork around as he thought of the word he wanted, “earnest,” he stabbed his fork into the pancake, “than you and I put together.” 

“Why do you make earnest sound like a bad thing?” Buck protested.

“It is what makes you more puppy than cat, you know? The earnestness.” Nico frowned, “Is earnestness a word?”

“Yes, it is.” Jason eyed the pancake Nico was stabbing meticulous holes in to create a pattern, but not making any moves to actually cut into or eat. He grabbed a fork and neatly cut Nico’s pancake into bite-sized pieces. “And you’re right, Ev is quite earnest and believable. Puppy-like.”

“Puppy-like. Like your husband,” Buck shot back.

Jason just grinned.

“Now you are to cut my food. What is next, am I to be fed like you feed Evan?”

They looked at Nico, whose facial expression gave nothing away, but his tone had been kind of snippy to Buck, who found the entire thing fascinating. 

“I am happy to do so.” Jason forked up a piece of pancake and held it out to Nico.

Buck pressed his lips together, he didn’t want to admit he was very impressed at how easily Jason handled Nico’s mood and how comfortably moody Nico was with Jason.

Nico stared at Jason for a moment, while Jason’s hand didn’t waver before rolling his eyes and grabbing the fork and feeding himself.

Buck smiled, seeing Nico eat. Hopefully, things were now looking up.

—

Things were definitely not looking up. Not yet. Eleven hours later, Buck held Nico through another coughing fit. Nico had eaten a quarter of the pancakes and two bites of the egg before he had begun gagging and refused to eat more. Within twenty minutes, the nausea had kicked in hard and fast, leaving Nico nearly falling out of bed as he had rushed to the bathroom. It had taken a lot of convincing on Buck’s part for Nico to attempt a lunch of soup. They had both ignored the way Nico’s hand had shaken as he had attempted a few bites before pushing the bowl away, refusing more.

The fever had spiked back up as soon as the Tylenol began wearing off. Nico had gagged just trying to swallow the pills, which had left him more distressed. His hand washing routine had also gotten an upgrade wherein he did the entire routine twice, expelling energy he did not have over it. But Buck hadn’t discouraged it since it seemed to relax Nico.

By hour twelve, Buck decided to fuck everything and just climbed into bed with Nico, wrapping him up in his arms and letting the man lay against him as he struggled through another coughing fit, gasping for air between coughs that wracked his entire body.

“What if this is it. We missed our time,” Nico gasped.

Buck cupped Nico’s face, frightened to see the usually composed man so panicked. A fevered panic at that.

“You listen to me, Nico, there is no way the universe is so cruel that this is the extent of our story. Do you hear me?” He tilted Nico’s head until their eyes met and held. “There's so much more to us. We WILL get to officially be an US. I'm going to meet your parents. And you're going to meet my J and Tris and Evan as MINE.” He stroked his thumbs along Nico’s face, “We have all the time in the world, baby. This is just a chapter in our story, it’s not the end of our story,” he ended on a whisper.

Tears slid down Nico’s cheeks, running over Buck’s hands. Buck gently pulled him into his arms and held him, rocking him through his panic, humming softly, hoping to soothe him.

“We have time,” Buck promised Nico. "We have time, baby," he whispered as Nico blinked feverishly at him through tear-filled eyes. He pressed his lips against Nico's forehead, which was still hot with a fever. "I promise you, we have all the time in the world.”

“I’ve got you, baby, you’re going to be okay,” he continued whispering against Nico’s brow, chanting the same reassurance over and over again to make Nico believe him.

It was a long time later that Buck realized Nico had fallen asleep in his arms. He gently squeezed his precious man before settling him back down into bed. He brushed Nico’s hair back off his forehead, the flushed face already telling him the fever was high again, but the light touch to his forehead confirmed it. It was fine. He’d handle it.

—

“This is not the kind of sweaty I expected us to be. Of all the times I spent imagining us wrapped up together, sweaty in bed, the reasons were pleasurable.”

Buck nearly began weeping, he was so relieved to hear that dry, flat tone back in Nico's whispered voice.

"Yeah?" He hitched a breath and gently continued stroking Nico’s hair, “What did you imagine?"

"You want me to paint you a picture like you have not imagined the same.” Nico pushed weakly at Buck’s arm, “I feel disgusting stop touching.”

Well, the punctuation wasn’t back, but Buck decided to ignore that. 

"Yes, paint me a picture of how you imagined us getting sweaty, Nico. Use that voice for good,” Buck teased. "I'll stop if you don't want to be touched. As for disgusting, I'd never think that of you."

There was a long moment of silence before Nico pressed back against him. Buck smiled and resumed stroking Nico’s hair.

"Want me to give you a sponge bath?" Buck offered. He figured Nico would appreciate being clean. There was no way Nico had the energy for a shower right now. 

"I would greatly prefer shower." Nico turned his head and looked blearily at Buck, "Not that I do not want your hands on me."

Buck smiled at his man's honesty. "Well, a shower is possible as long as you let me hover in the bathroom with you. I promise I won’t look.” 

Nico turned onto his back and sighed tiredly, “There is not much you already have not seen."

Buck laughed and stroked Nico’s hair off his forehead. He loved how the thick strands just flopped all over. “Ah, but those are the important bits, aren't they?"

"If you say so.”

"I'd say your eyes are my favorite part of you,” Buck mused. “But there's also your voice." He trailed his finger down Nico’s cheek and tapped the corner of his mouth, “There’s also this mouth with its precious little smile." He trailed his hand down and tapped over Nico’s heart, “And this heart with its beautiful capacity for care." He stroked over Nico’s heart and met his eyes. "I guess I have seen all the important bits,” he declared softly.

"This is," Nico sighed and trailed off. "I would say we have terrible timing for the things we say and do, but,” he trailed off again. 

"But we've had terrible timing for over a year now, so maybe this is just us," Buck said with a little laugh. 

Nico waved his hand, “I refuse to discuss this any further while sick.” 

"Yes, sir.” He leaned in and kissed Nico’s brow, “Let’s get you showered and comfortable.”

—

Saturday

Gentle fingers carding through his hair drew Buck out of sleep. He tightened his arms around Nico and opened his eyes, meeting the blue ones sitting on the edge of the bed. 

“He needed the comfort, and so did I,” Buck admitted in a whisper, knowing Jason would understand why Buck was in bed with Nico.

Jason nodded and patted Buck’s cheek, brushing his thumb under Buck’s eye. "You haven't had much rest.”

"It's been hard to. Every time he woke up in a coughing fit, I rushed in. And when he was silent, I was straining to hear and come rushing." Buck fretted about the people he loved. It was just what he did. And this week, he had entirely and completely come to terms with the fact that he was completely in love with Nico.

“Not gonna pet Nico’s hair,” Buck teased as J pulled his hand back. 

Jason’s eyes said he was smiling. “I’m not sure my touch would be as physically reassuring to him as it is with you. But I think maybe that will change soon with the way things are going between you two,” he said softly.

Buck blushed and pressed his forehead against Nico's back. He was an open book to Jason.

“Have you eaten? I can see he hasn’t.”

Buck sighed and slowly and carefully let go of Nico and sat up. He froze when Nico let out a sound of discomfort, his head whipping to the side as panic rose within him for disturbing Nico’s rest.

Jason gently pulled the duvet up and tucked it under Nico’s chin. “Relax, Ev. He just got cold.”

Buck sighed and dragged his hands down his face. “He managed a few bites of soup and crackers before the nausea returned. I ate a sandwich.”

Jason nodded and grabbed the touch thermometer to check Nico’s temperature. 

“Should we be worried about the nausea now?”

Jason sighed, “It is a symptom. I’ll try crackers with him again. Biscuits. Break it into some milk and try that. If it stays down, I’ll try a few pieces of bread in milk. No caffeine, no hot chocolate.”

“No hot chocolate?” Buck asked, surprised.

“No stimulants.” Jason nodded, “Fever’s down. How’s the cough?”

“It’s,” Buck paused and yawned, “better? The same coughing fits where he gets flushed and out of breath and panicked, and then it settles and he's fine for a couple of hours.”

“That's good,” Jason said slowly. “He's got a strong immunity, he's getting better. If there are hours between the coughing, that’s a definite improvement.”

“He's already lost weight,” Buck said worriedly as he gazed at Nico. 

“He's a big, tall guy like you, Ev. Two weeks of eating less will show quickly. You know this,” Jason explained gently. “He just needs to stay hydrated to the best of his ability. I brought some juice boxes over, so those should help too.”

“I am not drinking Evan's juice boxes,” Nico muttered sleepily, his eyes still closed.

Buck laughed and squeezed Nico's arm.

Jason rolled his eyes. “Yes, you will. I know you have a thing about drinking out of a glass, so work with me on this, and you can have your glass back.” 

Nico turned onto his back and stared between them both with a sad face. Buck couldn’t stand to have Nico sad. 

“Or we can get the sipper glass cup from my apartment, and you can use that?” Buck offered quickly.”

“Or that,” Jason agreed.

Buck pretended his friend wasn’t oozing amusement at him. 

“Do you want to try eating or drinking something now, or try to sleep a little more?” Jason asked Nico.

“Sleep.” Nico looked at Buck, “Will you be here when I wake up?”

“I have to go to work today.” Buck hated having to admit that.

“Be safe, Evan.” Nico blinked and closed his eyes.

“Sleep sweet, Nico.” Buck bent down and pressed his lips against Nico’s forehead. He shifted and whispered against his ear, “I’m all yours for the next four off after, baby.”

“Mine,” Nico whispered as he fell asleep.

—

The day passed in a haze for Buck. He did his job to the best of his ability while out on calls. But once back at the station, his mind flipped firmly back on Nico.

Bobby and Eddie both checked in on him through the shift, with Eddie sticking close and Bobby putting food down in front of him and expecting him to eat. Which he did. He knew he couldn’t neglect himself. He’d be no help to Nico if he didn’t do so. He winced. That was not the right way to go about this. He had to take care of himself because that was what one did. He had to take care of himself for him. That’s how the saying went: put your own life jacket on first before you help someone else. And that’s what he would do. He wouldn’t start out their relationship by taking care of himself for Nico. He shook his head and put down a note in his phone notes to inform his therapist of the progress he had made on that front. A point for his healthy thought process.

As he ate a late lunch, he looked at his phone as it buzzed. Seeing a message from Nico, he tapped it open immediately.

—

[Sent 15:42] <picture - plate of potato slices with a sprinkling of black pepper>

[Sent 15:42] Trying

Buck let out a slow sigh of relief. Nico was trying to eat again after sleeping through most of the morning. At Eddie’s concerned expression, he flashed his phone at his friend. Eddie smiled and responded with a thumbs-up. 

He hesitated for only a moment before replying with exactly what he wanted to say.

[Sent 15:43] I’m so proud of you baby <heart emoji><fingers crossed emoji><hug emoji>

[Sent 15:43] Thank you for confirmation I did not dream the baby

Buck smiled. 

[Sent 15:44] Nope. You’re my baby <hug emoji><heart emoji><hug emoji><heart emoji><hug emoji><heart emoji><hug emoji><heart emoji>

[Sent 15:44] <gif - Gollum from Lord of the Rings, “My preciousssss.”>

Buck burst out laughing in relief, ignoring the way he startled some of his teammates. Yeah, his baby was getting better and going to be just fine.

—

Sunday

Eddie clasped Buck’s shoulder and squeezed. “You call me if you need anything. Food, groceries, whatever. Tell Nico Abuela wants to cook him soup whenever he’s ready for it.” 

Buck nodded. “Thanks. I think we’re sorted on food for now. His SIL and brother, and Tristan sent a lot of food. Not that he’s eating a whole lot, but hopefully things are looking up on that front.”

“The potatoes were a good meal. Settled his stomach,” Eddie said. 

“Put a little rice in broth or soup or even milk for him,” Bobby offered as he joined them. “Add a little sugar, cinnamon to the milk, and it’s a nice, comforting dish.”

“He can’t taste anything, but yeah, I’ve been adding sugar to everything I’ve given him since his brother was pretty firm about not giving him anything that wasn’t sweet.” Buck smiled at them through his mask, “Thanks for the support.”

“We’re here for you, kid. You need anything, you call. I’ve got no plans for our off and can help out with anything you need. Even if what you need is a little time off or company. I’ll happily sit with him.” Bobby drew Buck into a hug. “I’m proud of you.”

Buck blinked back tears. It felt so good to be able to touch again. To be held and hugged. And Bobby gave amazing hugs. He hugged back. “Thanks, Bobby.” The man’s words were a balm to his soul.

Bobby pulled back and patted Buck’s back. “Take care, both of you.”

“You too, Bobby,” Eddie said as Bobby waved and headed to his car. 

“What was that about?”

Eddie and Buck looked at each other at Chimney’s question, then turned to face him a he approached them.

“Could you be more specific?” Eddie asked.

Chimney rolled his eyes, “That.” He waved his hand in the direction Bobby had gone in. “Bobby and the hugging.”

Buck leaned back against his car, not in the mood to sate Chimney’s curiosity.

Eddie leaned back beside Buck. “Bobby adores Buck. It’s no secret.”

Buck swallowed back a smirk. If he had said that he was pretty damn sure Chimney would have snapped at him for it but Eddie simply received another eye roll.

“Are you free on Monday at 11 am?” Chimney asked Buck.

“No,” Buck said flatly.

Chimney looked taken aback. “No?”

“No,” Buck repeated.

“But,” Chimney paused and took a deep breath. “I need you to help me out and take Albert for his doctor’s appointment.”

“I can’t.” Buck could see Chimney didn’t like that answer.

“Why not?” Chimney near demanded.

“I have other plans already,” Buck said simply.

“Are your plans so important that you can’t reschedule them and help me out so that I can stay home with your sister and our baby?” Chimney now outright demanded.

Eddie stiffed beside him. “Why can’t Albert take an Uber? He’s back on his feet and mobile, right?”

Chimney looked between them, “Yes, but he shouldn’t have to take an Uber or go through this alone when he has family to help him out,” he said firmly.

Buck wanted to laugh in Chimney’s face and demand to know since when he was considered family. He certainly wasn’t last year. And he certainly hadn’t been when his niece had been born. He hadn’t been allowed to visit for weeks, visits kept getting canceled, and Maddie frequently ignored his calls and messages. But sure, he was family.

“I told you, my close friend is unwell. I’m going to be with him.”

Chimney rolled his eyes at Buck, “So your friend is more important to you than family.” He stared hard at Buck, “Your sister is going to be so disappointed to hear this.”

“Han, that’s pushing it,” Eddie snapped.

“Am I lying?” Chimney demanded.

“Tell me, how often have I seen this family of mine?” Buck asked slowly. He stared at Chimney, “Did this family apologize to me for sharing the secret of my conception with a psycho killer while out on a call?”

Chimney shifted, “That’s different. I had to tell someone, Buck! And it’s not safe to just have you around.”

“But it’s safe to have him come ferry your brother around?” Eddie demanded. “Make it make sense, Chim, cause your logic isn’t working, man.”

“Hey, Eds, how many months did Chim here manage to keep the secret that Maddie’s pregnant?” Buck asked casually.

And Eddie played his wingman perfectly. “Why, Evan, I believe it was for just over three months until Maddie was safely into her second trimester.” He tilted his head, “So clearly you can keep some secrets.”

Buck nodded, “The secrets that really matter to him,” he said sagely.

Chimney huffed, “None of that matters now! Will you or won’t you help me out?”

Buck stared straight at Chimney, “No.”

They stared at each other for a long, tense moment before Chimney nodded sharply. 

“I’ll remember this, Buckley. In the future, I’ll remember where your priorities lie.”

“That wasn’t ominous at all,” Eddie murmured as Chimney turned and strode away.

“The entire time he stayed with me, the attitude was one of superiority as if his age and his status as my sister’s baby daddy meant I should defer to him,” Buck murmured.

“Baby daddy?” Eddie asked, appalled.

Buck snorted, “Thank Nico for putting that in my head.”

Eddie scoffed, “No fucking way that posh, precise, most retrained Italian ever of yours uses terms like baby daddy.”

Buck raised his eyebrows at Eddie, “You wanna bet on it? He reads fanfiction and teases me that he watches fireman porn.”

Eddie stared at him for a moment. “All in that flat, soft little tone of his?”

Buck nodded, “Yup! With that little smile that plays about his mouth, too.”

Eddie heaved a sigh, “Trust you to fall in love with an, as abuela would say, Un principe malvado. An evil man, Buck. A handsome, sweet, soft-toned one who cooks the best pasta I have ever eaten.”

Buck put his hands on his hips, “Excuse me! Nico is NOT un principe malvado!” He smiled and pressed his hand against his heart, “Nico is un rey malvado. The King of my heart,” he declared grandly. He grinned as Eddie’s face contorted into an expression of disbelief before his friend burst out laughing.

Eddie shoved him lightly, “Fine. Go on then. Go home to your King.”

“I’m going to do just that,” Buck said with a pleased smile, content at having finally said it out loud. He had declared his feelings, even if Eddie may think he was just joking.

Chapter Text

February 1, 2020 - Saturday

[Sent 16:11] <picture - Nico's arm extended holding a slim cone with three layers of gelato on it>
[Sent 16:12] Venchi gelato. It is most famous. A true tourist visit.

[Sent 07:12] You no longer live there so you can enjoy it pretending to be a tourist.
[Sent 07:13] And that looks so good!
[Sent 07:13] Also why is your arm bare? It's 9C in Milan!

[Sent 16:13] Why do you know that?
[Sent 16:13] Have you been checking? 

[Sent 07:14] I just do 
[Sent 07:14] <gif - person looking everywhere but at the camera>

[Sent 16:14] <picture - selfie of Nico holding the gelato cone dressed in trousers, a fitted short sleeve shirt>
[Sent 16:14] It is pleasant

[Sent 07:14] I am shivering just looking at you

[Sent 16:15] <gif - smirking>

[Sent 07:15] Get your mind out of the gutter!

[Sent 16:15] I believe it is time to take your own advice Evan as you are the one shivering just looking at my picture

[Sent 07:15] Not like that

[Sent 16:16] Sure

[Sent 07:16] Seriously!

[Sent 16:16] Sure

[Sent 07:16] Nico

[Sent 16:16] I believe you

[Sent 07:16] No you don't

[Sent 16:16] No I do not

[Sent 16:17] <smiley face emoji>
[Sent 16:17] <picture - selfie of Nico licking the ice cream with his eyes closed>
[Sent 16:17] <picture - selfie of Nico licking the ice cream with his eyes open staring right at the camera>

[Sent 07:18] You’re going to kill me
[Sent 07:18] But what a way to go
[Sent 07:18] <gif - Nelly song it’s getting hot in here>

[Sent 16:18] I am merely being helpful as you mentioned shivering
[Sent 16:18] <gif - angel>

[Sent 07:18] <gif - sighing>
[Sent 10:50] <picture - a delicious tray of mac and cheese and a roll of garlic bread>
[Sent 11:05] Um
[Sent 11:06] <picture of edge of a cream envelope, open note with the words ‘Thank you, Evan, for being so very generous with your time and energy. Warm Regards, Antonio Rossi.’ A folded $100 bill beside it>
[Sent 11:06] <picture - selfie of Buck looking confused>
[Sent 11:06] ?

[Sent 20:45] That looks 
[Sent 20:45] <gif - licking lips>

[Sent 11:46] I’ll make you some when you return
[Sent 11:46] <smiley face emoji>

[Sent 20:46] I shall enjoy that

[Sent 11:46] Stop avoiding my question Nicodemus Rossi!

[Sent 20:47] <picture - selfie of Nico in the back of a car raising his eyebrow>
[Sent 20:47] You did not ask me a question Evan

[Sent 11:47] First, you look good! Is that silk?
[Sent 11:48] Second, I did ask! Stop distracting me with your handsome face

[Sent 20:48] <smiley face emoji>
[Sent 20:548] Did you? 
[Sent 20:48] Oh, I see!

[Sent 11:53] Nico DON’T!

[Sent 20:54] <gif - Americans>

[Sent 11:54] <sobbing emoji> <laugh crying emoji>
[Sent 11:54] I walked right into that one

[Sent 20:55] Indeed you did
[Sent 20:55] To answer your unasked question, you provided a service and were paid for it

[Sent 11:56] I didn’t expect it.

[Sent 20:56] Are you offended?

[Sent 11:56] Not offended… surprised? 
[Sent 11:56] I guess maybe I thought I was just doing a favor?

[Sent 20:57] I would think if you were doing it for me it could be a favour. Though I too would prefer to compensate you for your time and effort or at the very least the ingredients

[Sent 11:57] I suppose you’re right.

[Sent 20:58] We treat each other to food. It is a different relationship than you specifically doing someone else a favour and cooking for them no?

[Sent 11:58] That’s true. 
[Sent 11:59] Sorry I kinda dumped it on you? I overthought it.

[Sent 20:59] It is no problem
[Sent 21:01] If I may say something?

[Sent 12:01] You can say anything to me Nico.

[Sent 21:02] Please know I do not mean to offend
[Sent 21:04] <voice note - You must know your worth Evan. If someone cares to ask you for favour let them state it is a favour. Let them offer you a barter if they cannot afford financial compensation. Or let them be truthful and say they cannot afford to financially or otherwise compensate you. Then it is up to you to decide if you want to do a trade or offer for free as an act of kindness. Your energy, your time, your talent, your attention is valuable. I appreciate that you are a kind and generous man but there must be some limits so you don’t overextend yourself or be taken advantage of, no?