Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“Where is Adriana, Papa?” Eddie asked, confused, when he saw her room completely empty.
“We found her a Mate. Your sister will be taken care of by her Alpha now.” Ramon said.

“Will I be able to visit her?”

“No mijo, she has her own life now. You need to let her go.”

Eddie felt a wave of emotions coming to him, he quickly escaped to his room. As he closed the door a few tears escaped and fell down his cheeks. He sat on the bed and soon after his father came to his room. As he came closer and saw the tears, he became very upset.

“Eddie, men don’t cry. Especially if you want to present as Alpha.” said Ramon and stormed out of Eddie’s room.

Eddie curled up to his bed and hugged his pillow as he tried to calm down. After some time he fell asleep.

—-

When Eddie woke up, he felt very sore and hot, every part of him ached and he felt like his skin was burning. He tried to stand up, just to fall down to the floor next to his bed. The sound of his fall seemed to notify his mother as she ran into the room. She helped him back to bed and promptly left again to alert his father. After what feels like ages, but was most likely a few minutes his father came to his room. He examined him briefly and then sighed loudly.

“My only son, and he’s fucking omega. I waited this long for nothing.” Ramon said and stood up from Eddie’s bed. “You are such a disappointment. I no longer have a son.” he said and while leaving he slammed the door.

Before Eddie could do anything, he fell back to sleep.

—

Eddie woke up to some loud noise. He used his knuckles to rub his eyes, as he opened his eyes a wave of panic rushed through him. He was locked in a cage inside the trunk of a car.
He was confused and scared.
What happened? Was he kidnapped? What happened to his family? He shed a tear at the thoughts.
After a while the car stopped. Eddie was getting more nervous with every step he heard outside of the car. He curled up to the back of the cage as if it would make any difference.

The trunk then opened, it was dark outside and Eddie was immediately focused on the man who opened the trunk. He was short and had silver hair and a beard.

“Where am I? What happened to my parents? Did you kidnap me?” Eddie blurred out after a brief examination of the man.

“Kidnap you? No kid. I own you now. I bought you from your parents.” the man said with a grin. “You are stuck with me.” he continued.

Eddie was stunned. He tried to recall the last thing he can remember before waking up in the car. He remembered his father’s words and his stomach turned.

“My name is Thomas by the way.” the man said. Eddie didn’t answer, just looked at him.
“Okay Hun, we still have a few hours on the road.” Thomas said. “Come closer so I can give you something to calm you down, okay?” he continued.
Eddie was still leaning to the back of the cage, not sure what to do.
“We can have it the good way, or the bad way. What will you choose?” Thomas said.
Eddie then came forward and Thomas gave him a shot to his shoulder, he even cleaned it with alcohol and put a bandaid on the spot afterwards. Eddie was wondering if Thomas was a doctor. But before he could finish that though he was asleep again.

—-

Eddie woke up in a white room, there was just a bed with white sheets and a white table across the room. When he looked behind him there was a small wardrobe, two doors and no windows. He tried to open the first door, which led to a small bathroom. As he tried to open the second one, it was locked. A few moments later Thomas unlocked the door and came inside the room.

“Hi Hun, do you like your room?” Thomas said.

“It’s kinda empty, but looks nice Sir.” Eddie responded cautiously.

“Well, well, well. Aren’t you a polite gentleman. Don’t worry Hun, I will give you something to keep you busy when I’m at work.”

“Thank you Sir.”

“But it will depend on your behavior. When you make me happy, I will make you happy.”

Eddie doesn't even want to think about what Thomas is implying. The thought makes him uneasy, so he shoves it away

“But I think you are hungry, aren’t you Hun? Let’s get you something to eat.” Thomas said and pointed at the door.
Eddie just nodded and followed him.

___

One week later

Eddie just went to his room after he cleaned the dishes after dinner. He sat on the bed, and looked at the new bookshelf Thomas bought him. There were just a few books and most of them were encyclopedias and one about drawing.
Eddie was still processing all the emotions he felt a week ago. The betrayal of his parents, the fact that he was omega, that he was owned by someone who could be his grandpa. He felt sadness when he thought of Adriana. Did she share the same fate as him?

But he was still confused by Thomas, he feared the worst, but he was nice to him, apart from locking him inside his room most of the day and not letting him outside the house. Eddie had no idea where the house was located. His room had no windows so he couldn’t determine by weather or the length of a day, nor if it’s day or night.
Thomas put a clock to his room two days ago. Which helped slightly as he was at least aware of the time.

Eddie started to read the book about drawing, mostly because he had nothing else to do but also he wanted to try drawing.
Thomas gave him a notepad, a few pencils, crayons and markers. So he figured he might as well do something with his time.

—-

Five weeks later

Eddie was feeling a little tired and dizzy today.

He was drawing a tree with one half beautiful full of life and color, the other was dark, dry, dead even. As he finished it and put it to his pile of artworks, he went to bed.

In the morning he felt sore and hot. Couldn’ move. Few moments later Thomas came into the room, with a smile on his face. Thomas then picked him up and carried him away. Next time Eddie opens his eyes he is tied to the bed by ropes and Thomas is approaching him.

“Finally, your first heat, Hun. But don’t worry you got your birth control shot when I brought you here.”
Eddie was so tired and sore. He passed out before Thomas even began.

When he woke up, he felt something hot inside him, and a moment later he felt empty.
“Oh, you are back Hun. That is sweet, you seem to have high resistance to those anesthetics then.” Thomas said. “It doesn’t matter though it was just so you wouldn't fight at first. You can be awake now and have some fun too.” He continued.

Eddie started to panic, he tried to move but he couldn’t, both his hands and legs were still tied.

“You are not going anywhere till your heat ends, Hun.” Thomas said with a grin.

Tears formed in Eddie’s eyes, one then rolled down his cheek.
Thomas licked the tear from his face and moaned. He then moved between Eddie’s thighs and he started to circle around Eddie’s rim with his cock.

—

three days later

Eddie woke up on his bed in his room. Everything was sore. His stomach hurt like he was stabbed over and over again.
He slowly stood up from his bed. And as he was going to the bathroom, he noticed the door to his room wasn't closed completely. He approached them and went to the hall. Then continued to the living room. It was light outside, most likely noon. Thomas must be at work then. He tried to search Thomas’s room but didn’t find much. Just around forty dollars, but there was nothing useful other than the money. He couldn’t find a phone, so he gave up, in hope he would ask someone outside.

Eddie then found the main door and went outside. He looked down on the clothes he was wearing. A white T-shirt and gray sweatpants.
After some thinking he continued through the path leading from the house. As he was closing the gate, he heard a car approaching, so he closed the gate and ran away.

Eddie got a few blocks away from that house. He was overwhelmed by everything and he was getting tired, he was just wearing slippers as well.
When he looked around him in search of help, he saw a police car at a nearby parking lot.

When Eddie approached the car, the two officers inside looked at him and one stepped out of the car.

“Hello, um sorry can you help me? I was kidnapped” Eddie blurted out

“Kidnapped? Are you okay? Who Kidnapped you?” the officer responded

“Um, I - uh his name is Thomas, I - I don’t know his last name.”

“And what is your name?”

“I’m Edmundo Diaz. May I ask which city we are in?”

“We are in Los Angeles. Where are you from?”

“El Paso, Texas, Sir,”

“Oh god, come on get in the car. You are safe now. Are you hurt?”

“I don’t know but my stomach still hurts.”

“We will get you to the hospital then.”

“Thank you.”

—-

The police officers escorted Eddie to the hospital and handed him to the doctors.
He was resting in the patient's room when someone walked in. It was Thomas.
Eddie’s eyes opened wide and he screamed but it was too late Thomas approached him and gave him a shot to his shoulder. Everything went dizzy and blurry and Eddie wanted to cry, instead his head dropped back on the pillow.

—-

When Eddie woke up tied to Thomas’s bed he started crying and tried to free himself.
His attempts were unsuccessful. And as Thomas approached the bed, he began to panic.

“I don’t like your behavior, young man. I think you need to be punished to understand what happens when you make me angry.” Thomas said, gazing into Eddie's eyes.
Eddie gulped and remained silent.

“Let’s see how long you can take it, when I don't hold myself back.” Thomas said with a smile.

Thomas then thrusted hard into Eddie, who started crying, which seemed to make Thomas even more horny.

—-

Eddie had no idea how long the ‘punishment’ took, it felt like days, weeks, months. Even though it was probably just a few hours.
He was devastated, crying curled in his bed. His stomach hurt so much more than before.
He felt broken. There was no one who could help him, his own parents did this to him, they sold him like a piece of meat, didn’t even say goodbye. The family that was supposed to protect him, gave him away to someone like Thomas.

Eddie spent most of his time lying in bed, curled in his blanket. He hated being so powerless, hated this bland room, only colors were the books in the bookshelf and his drawings.

He hated himself, he did everything his parents wanted but it still wasn’t enough, and just for being omega, they threw him away like thrash.

After going through all these things over and over, he felt numb, he felt nothing, he meant nothing. And most of all he is stuck in this room, most likely for the rest of his life.
That thought hit him like a truck.

What if this IS his life now.

Chapter Text

three months later

Eddie feels like a robot, no emotions, only pain. He wants all of this to end.

He was secretly taking pills from Thomas’s bathroom, just a one or two each day so he wouldn’t notice. Thomas let him walk around the house a little more as he began to trust him more. He was taking Eddie to his bathroom to shower together, so after the shower Thomas always dries quickly and storms out of the bathroom, which Eddie took advantage of.

Eddie had around twenty pills of different drugs. He was just waiting for Thomas to leave for work.

Thomas left around twenty minutes ago and Eddie was ready. He sat down on his bed and took all the pills he had hidden in his bathroom to his hand and started to swallow them while sipping water from the glass he had in the other hand.

It took around ten minutes before he swallowed all of them. Afterwards he lied back to his bed and waited. He was starting to get tired, when he heard a loud thud, and then Thomas was there, making him vomit and giving him some shots.

When Eddie woke up back in his bed, he started crying. When he wanted to put his palms over his face he couldn’t, he was handcuffed to the bed. After he realized that he can’t escape even by dying, he started to cry even more.

—-

five months later

Eddie had already given up on any attempt to escape or hurt himself. There was no point, everything he tried failed and he got punished more and more every time. He couldn’t stand it. And to make today even better, he woke up to his heat starting.

Eddie had no idea how Thomas always knew already that his heat started, he left that thought go, he’s too tired to think right now.

Thomas came to his room and picked him up, as usual. Carried him to Thomas’s bedroom and tied his hands and legs. Eddie didn’t fight him, It wasn’t worth it, he would just get tied up anyway and punished afterwards.

Eddie didn’t even cry when Thomas thrusted hard inside him, he felt like he had no tears left, he felt numb, hopeless.

After a few rounds, as Thomas was coming inside Eddie, after a few twitched thrust inside Thomas dropped on Eddie. Eddie was confused, Thomas had never done that before.

Eddie waited but Thomas was not moving. Eddie started to panic, did he pass out or what?

He tried to move but he was still tied and pinned by Thomas. As he tried to calm down, he remembered that Thomas leaves his phone on the bedside table, because he likes to film the act.

Eddie then tries, slightly hesitant. “Hey Siri?” After he hears the ding sound he quickly continues.”Call 911.”
He almost starts crying as he hears; “Calling 911.”

“911, what is your emergency?”

“Um - Uh, I need help.”

“Can you tell me your location?”

“I - I don’t know the address, I only left the house once. I only know that I’m in Los Angeles.” he said, almost crying.

“Okay, I’ll try to locate you. Can you tell me your name?”

“M - my name is Eddie.”

“And how old are you Eddie?”

“I’m eighteen, I think.”

“You are not sure?”

“I have no idea what the date is and I don’t remember when he took me, I’m sorry.”

“Don’t worry about that Eddie. Tell me, someone kidnapped you?”

“In a way I guess. My parents sold me to him.”

“Ehm, okay and are you in danger now? I’m sending the police to your location. Are you hurt?”

“Well just a little I don’t feel anything, but Thomas is still on top of me and I don’t think he’s breathing.”

“Is Thomas the man that kidnapped you? Can you do CPR?”

“Yes, that is him. I – can’t do anything. I’m tied to the bed, and he’s lying on top of me and—inside me.” he said at the end more like a whisper.

“Okay, I’ll send paramedics to your location.”

“Thank you, I thought I would spend the rest of my life with him.” he said while crying.

“Help is almost there Eddie, everything’s gonna be fine.”

“I don’t know, I have nowhere to go. I can’t go back to my parents in El Paso, they hate me for being omega. That was the reason they got rid of me.”

The dispatcher didn’t say anything, just what sounded like quiet cries was heard and then loud thud from the main door.

The paramedics looked at him, with sad faces, came closer and went to take Thomas off of him.

“Hi I’m Hen, and this is Buck. I will take a look at you okay?
“Okay.” Eddie said shyly.

After a quick examination the police officers asked a few questions.

“Can you tell me your name?”

“I’m Edmundo Diaz.”

“You are Diaz? Oh, we need to call Athena that is her case.”

“What? What case?”

“You disappeared from a hospital eight months ago.”

“Oh, you know about that? He said he made sure no one was looking for me.”

“Don’t worry about that right now, we will take you to hospital and we will talk more when you are better.”

“B - But I have nowhere to go, I can’t go back to my parents. They sold me to this monster.” Eddie said and started crying.

Everything was blurry from the tears and sobs, but then someone was hugging him.
And Eddie felt such relief, he immediately hugged back the person and didn’t let go.
He just couldn’t, he finally felt safe after all this time, maybe the safest in his life.

The person picked him up and let him be on their lap back in the ambulance.
Eddie was not brave enough to open his eyes to look the person in the eyes.

He started shaking a little, someone put a blanket over him, and the person holding him stroked his hair softly. The shaking slowly faded away as they approached the hospital.

There were a lot of bright lights, as Eddie opened his eyes he saw he was still being carried by a man, he closed his eyes and fell asleep.
—-

When he woke up, there was a man sitting on his right and holding his hand. He must have noticed Eddie woke up, because he quickly pulled his hand away and moved his chair closer to the bed.

“Thank you.” Eddie said

“You’re welcome Eddie.”

“I’m sorry I didn’t let go of you. I - Uh, I just felt safe, for the first time in a long while.”
The other man frowned, looking like his heart was shattered by those words.

“Ehm, I’m Buck by the way.” he said finally

“I’m Eddie, but I guess you know that already.”

Buck chuckled slightly “Well maybe, but I’m happy to meet you Eddie.”
Eddie held back tears and smiled slightly.

Few moments later a police officer came to his room.
“Hi Eddie, I’m Athena. Would you mind if I ask some questions?”
“Okay, b - but c- can Buck stay, please?”

Athena looked at Buck, Buck just nodded.
“Of course sweetheart.”

—-

“So you are from El Paso?” Athena asked.

“Yes ma'am.” Eddie responded

“And your parents still live there?”

“I think so, But I can’t go back there.”

“Why sweetheart?”

“They hate me, they sold me to Thomas after they found out I’m omega. What if they would do that again? They most likely did the same to my sister Adriana.” Eddie said with tears running down his cheeks.

Buck took his hand and squeezed slightly.

“When will they release me from the hospital?” Eddie asked nervously.

“Probably tomorrow morning, all tests seem fine.”

“I have no idea where I will go after they release me.” Eddie said quietly
Before Athena could say anything Buck started “You could stay with me at my place.”

“I can’t ask for that.” Eddie said quietly.

“You are not asking, I’m offering.”

Athena looked at Buck with a stern face, which then turned to soft.

“I would take that offer Eddie.” she said finally. “Buck won’t let anything bad happen to you. But I would ask him for a pinkie promise, he never broke one.” she continued with a smile and left the room

“I - uh, I will keep you safe and won’t let anything happen to you. Pinkie promise?” Buck said immediately.

“Okay, pinkie promise.” Eddie said.

Chapter Text

When Eddie woke up, and turned to his right, Buck was sleeping on the uncomfortable plastic chair. He was changed to more civil clothes, he probably went home to change. After a few minutes, as he was watching Buck sleep, a nurse came in.

The nurse looked slightly amused as she looked towards Buck.
“Everything seems fine, you should rest for a few days, but you will be fine.” she said quietly and smiled.

“Thank you.” Eddie responded quietly.
She smiled, looked at both of them and left.

Eddie turned back to his right and continued watching Buck in his sleep.

After a few minutes Buck woke up. “Hey Eddie,how long are you up?”

Buck looked towards the door and back to Eddie. “Did the nurse say when they will release you?”

“She was there a few minutes ago, and said I’m free to go.”

“Great, I'll go talk to them and we will be on our way.”

“Okay, Buck. Thank you.”

“So sweet.” Buck said as he left the room with a smile.
Eddie’s face turned pink.

—-

When Buck was escorting Eddie from the hospital, Eddie got lost in his thoughts. He has nothing but the clothes Buck brought him to the hospital. Without Buck he would be practically naked now. What will happen now, will Buck just let him live at his place? What will he want in return? Oh no, not again. Eddie started panicking as they approached the parking lot. Buck brought him into a hug. “ Hey, Eddie, look at me. breathe with me okay.”
Eddie tried to copy Buck’s breathing and it helped a little.

“Okay, now tell me what’s going inside your head please.”

“I—I, I don’t understand w—why would you help me. What do you get out of it?” Eddie said quietly.

Buck’s eyes went wide as he looked back at Eddie. “Oh wait, you don’t think that I—uh that I would hurt you?”
Eddie just shrugged.

“Oh god, I’m so sorry you feel this way, I—I didn’t think of that. Can I do something to earn your trust?”

“I—I don’t know, sorry, I’m so useless.” Eddie said quietly, as he felt overwhelmed.

“Look at me Eds, you are not useless. U are strong and brave you survived hell Eddie. That doesn’t sound useless to me.” Buck replied with a slight smile.

“What about I give you my phone and wallet. Phone so you can call for help if you felt threatened, and my wallet to show you that I trust you.” Buck continued.

“O—Okay, sounds fair I guess.” Eddie replied with an attempted smile.

“Don’t worry Eds, I have a phone for you ready at home, okay? Your own phone.”

“You got me a phone? why? I hope It wasn’t expensive.” Eddie said, surprised.

“Well, so you can call me or text me, when I’m on my shift. Besides, everyone has a phone nowadays.”

“Fair enough.”

“Now let’s go Eds you must be starving.” Buck looked down on Eddie as they walked to Buck’s car.

They approached Buck’s jeep, both got inside and closed the doors.
As Buck sat down at the driver's seat he handed his phone and wallet to Eddie, who looked surprised like he already forgot about their agreement. Buck smiled as Eddie took it and put it on his lap and buckled up his seatbelt.

“Keep those safe for me.” Buck said softly.

Buck then started the car and they slowly rolled out of the parking lot.

Slightly awkward silence loomed over them as they were leaving the hospital
Eddie was looking to his lap at the phone and wallet Buck left him with.

Buck noticed Eddie’s fascination with his belongings and said; “I mean, If you are curious you can look through the wallet, don’t think there is much interesting stuff other than a few bucks, though.” he smiled and continued; “Or you can look into my phone, my pin is four zeros.” he finished and threw a quick glance at Eddie and then back to the road.

“There is no way you have a pin like that on your phone.” Eddie said, chuckling slightly.

“Try it then, hm? Why would I even tell you the wrong pin, Eddie?” Buck said with a big smile.

“I don’t know Buck, maybe coz you aren’t supposed to tell people your pin code, duh.”

“But you aren’t people, you are Eddie. And I trust you okay?”

“Oh, I’m Eddie? Okay that changes everything then.” Eddie said with a smirk.

“Okay, so we got a comedian here. I’ll remember that.” Buck said, chuckling. “Don’t worry I mean It, you can look into my phone, just don’t send any incriminating photos to anyone, maybe except you when you get your phone.” Buck said teasingly.

“Okay then, but I won’t look at your gallery, I’m scared I would see something that was not meant for me.” Eddie teased back.

“What do you mean? Wait. Oh no don’t worry I - uh, have an album for that.”

“No way, you have so many that you have an album for that?” Eddie said while chuckling.

“Well I had a phase around a year ago. I’m no longer into that though.”

“So you are looking for something serious hm?”

“Yeah, but it’s hard for me, you know. In every serious relationship I was in, I was left behind. Feeling like I’m not enough for them to stay.” Buck said and his smile disappeared.

Eddie tried the pin and it unlocked Buck’s phone, then he looked at his wallpaper.

“Who is that lady on your home screen?” Eddie asked curiously.

“That’s my sister, Maddie. She’s a 911 dispatcher.”Buck responded with a slight smile.

“She took your call.” he continued and his smile disappeared.

“She’s beautiful, and has a nice voice.” Eddie said.

“Yeah, that sounds like Maddie.” Buck said quietly.

Eddie locked the phone and looked outside the car window. They were arriving at Walmart.

“Are we going shopping?” Eddie asked with a slightly confused tone.

“Well we will grab some food, and I think you need some clothes, mister.” Buck said with a smirk.

“I’m kinda hungry, but I have some clothes though.” Eddie responded.

“Yeah sure, the one I gave you in the hospital.”

“Um, yeah all I’ll ever need.”

“You think you will survive with one T-shirt, sweatpants, one pair of socks and one pair of boxers?” Buck said with a smirk. “You may survive, but I won’t survive the smell, if you will wear the same clothes nonstop.” He continued with a small chuckle.

“Fair enough. But I don’t want to trouble you, or make you spend money on me.”

“Don’t worry about that, okay? Let me take care of you.”

“O–okay Buck, thank you.” Eddie said and his cheeks turned pink.

“You deserve it Eddie.” Buck said and left the car. Eddie opened the car door and followed him.

—-

Buck’s POV

The morning before

Buck groaned as he reached out to the nightstand to stop the annoying alarm. He dropped back to bed and looked at the white ceiling before finally getting up.

At least he got a shift in a few hours, better than being stuck here, alone, again.

He brushed his teeth and took a quick shower. He applied his scent blockers right after, no one needs to know how he feels right now. He would have to apply them anyway to calls so nobody will be thinking anything of it.

Buck arrived in the firehouse, heading straight to the lockers, trying to avoid everyone, not really in a mood for talk. But as he opened his locker, he was blessed by Chim’s presence.

“Hey Buck, How are you?” Chim asked as he looked him up and down.

“Hey Chim, I’m fine.” Buck replied and attempted a fake smile.

Chimney looked at him reluctantly and left. Buck sighed and changed into his uniform.

He walked up to the loft and he was greeted by Hen just as he left the stairs.

Okay this will be a long shift.

Hen led him to the table with two mugs, “C’mon, let’s catch up.” Hen said as she pointed at the empty chair.

Buck knows she means well but all he wants to do right now is sleep or work, not particularly interested in the talking part. There was not really much to talk about.

Not with the last year filled with chaos. Everything is fine.

At least that’s what he keeps telling himself.

Shoving the memories deep down to bottle it up.

He felt so alone after Abby left, not even giving him closure after leaving to find herself again. Buck understood, but that doesn’t mean it didn’t hurt, his first real relationship where he felt something was there, not only a meaningless hookups. He opened up, only to be left alone again.

Then Maddie came back to his life, only to almost leave forever after Doug found her. He almost lost his sister and Chim to this bastard. He got a fair share of nightmares, not being able to save either of them.

Then their parents came to see Maddie after she was out of the hospital. Because, “You know we are not good with hospitals.” Their mothers words leave a sour taste in his mouth.

When people get to know him, they tend to leave. Maybe he’s just too much, hell even his own parents didn’t show interest in him. But his parents didn’t really leave him, they would have to be there in the first place.

It stung when his parents came to see Maddie, while never visiting Buck after he was in hospital, they didn't even call once he left their house. He only got mail from their lawyer about his trust fund, like money would magically solve everything.

He talked about all this with Frank last week, Bobby may have dragged him there screaming and kicking, but it may be helping a little.

But that doesn’t mean he will talk about it now.

“So how are you really?” Hen asked with a soft look.

“I’m fine.” Buck responded and grabbed the mug and drank up.

“You sure? You know you can tell us anything.” Hen continued.

Buck sighed, “Yes I’m sure, thank you for the coffee.” he said and stood up to move to the kitchen.

It was too late when he realized that’s where Bobby was making breakfast.

“Hey Buck, would you mind giving me a hand?” Bobby asked.

“Sure.” Buck said with a fake smile, bracing for impact.

They prepared pancakes in silence, and Buck was slowly losing it. Bracing for Bobby’s question, that didn’t come.

“If you ever want to talk, I’m here.” Bobby said as they finished the last pancake.

“I know thank you.” Buck replied and went to bring the pancakes to the table.

At least Bobby won’t interrogate him today, Buck takes that as a win.

He was halfway through his pancakes when the siren blared.

All of them sighed and went to put on their gear.

—***(TW)

They came to the station after a few hours and two more emergencies. Buck dropped onto the couch as he completely ignored the fact that he still has his breakfast on the table, exhausted from the last call. To his benefit, Hen and Chim stopped prying answers from him, only giving him a concerned look here and there.

Buck only closed his eyes for a second, just to hear the siren again. He sighed and got up to run back downstairs.

“We got a case of kidnapping.” Bobby announced into the radio.

Everybody frowned.

“The victim is trapped under the perpetrator, tied to the bed.” Bobby continued, with his voice breaking. Can't really blame him, what heinous stuff was going on there?

They arrived at the scene and Buck sprinted towards the house, kicking the door open. He’s filled with rage.

How could someone do something like that? So cruel.

When he got to the bedroom with Hen right behind him, he was stunned.

Poor soul.

So beautiful.

He looked into the teary brown eyes, filled with fear, pain and maybe relief. Those eyes met his for a moment before they turned to Hen.

He heard Hen say something to the guy, and after a brief check up, police officers asked him a few questions.

But then he broke into tears, and Buck went and pulled him into a hug.
It felt so right, holding him, Eddie, he overheard from the questioning.

Sudden urge to protect him ran through his veins, ready to do anything to protect him.
Eddie shivered when they sat down together in the ambulance, so he pulled a blanket over him.
Hen shot him a knowing look before she closed the door.
***(TW end)
When Buck let the nurses take Eddie, he felt the need to stay and make sure he’s okay.

Eddie dozed after the check up and tests, and Buck stayed there by his side. Bobby let him go for the rest of the shift.

Athena stepped inside the room, “How is he?” she whispered.

“He should be fine, he just needs to rest.” he whispered back.

She nodded, “You really care about him, hmm?” she whispered.

“I do.” he blurted out quietly, without hesitation.

She smiled, “You know you could get him some clothes, at least for him to leave the hospital, I'll stay with him.” she said quietly.

“Okay.” Buck replied quietly.

He left the room and headed for his Jeep. He felt like someone was tearing his heart out of his chest. He headed to his apartment to find something for Eddie to wear. He changed from his uniform to something more civil, he went with jeans and shirt, too focused on already heading back.

When he arrived back, he felt immediate relief wash over him. Athena was with him and he was safe.

I will keep him safe.

Athena smiled at him and left the room most likely to get some fine hospital coffee.

Nurse came by, explaining that Eddie will stay here overnight, to make sure everything is fine but tomorrow he will be released.

Buck sat down on the horribly uncomfortable plastic chair and watched Eddie. He looked peaceful, his beautiful golden skin in contrast with the white hospital bedding.

Buck was so tired after his shift and everything that happened, sleep took him a few minutes after.

Chapter Text

Eddie POV

First they went for some clothes, Eddie picked multiple T-shirts, underwear, socks, two pairs of shorts and one more pair of sweatpants. And they were heading to get him some jeans and a sweatshirt.

They end up with one pair of jeans and a black hoodie.

“Would you like anything else?” Buck asked.

“I think it’s enough clothes.” Eddie responded

“Okay then, that will do for now. Let’s get some food too, I’m starving.”

“That would be nice.”

“What would you like for dinner?” Buck asked.

“I don’t know. But something to eat would be nice.” Eddie said teasingly.

“Okay smartass, that’s not helpful. Isn’t there something you would like? Or your favorite food?”

“Well, I don’t think you know how to make tamales, but something like pizza would be nice.”

“Okay, pizza it is. But I will order it when we get home. I think you deserve better than frozen pizza.” Buck said. “Would you like some ice cream?” Buck continued.

“Maybe? I don’t remember the last time I had Ice cream.” Eddie said.

“Let’s fix that then, go pick a few, don’t be shy.”

“I’ll try, what flavor should I take?”

“That’s up to you, I like all ice cream equally.” Buck answered with a smile.

Eddie went to the ice cream aisle, while Buck was waiting nearby looking at something on his phone.

Eddie came back with two packs of ice cream.

“So what did you pick?” Buck asked as he put his phone to his pocket.

“Chocolate and caramel.” Eddie said, shyly as he put the ice cream in their shopping cart.

“Good choices.” Buck said and grabbed the shopping cart. “Would you mind if my sister visited us tomorrow?” he continued.

“No it’s fine.” Eddie answered, nervously.

“I can tell her that you should first get comfortable in your new home before having visitors.”

“Well It’s your place so It should be up to you.”

“Okay, I’ll tell her to give us at least one more day, to get you settled.”

“Thank you, Buck. I’m sorry, I just - I don’t think I'm ready to meet new people.”

“That’s okay Eds.” Buck said as he pushed the shopping cart to the checkout. “Let’s go pay for all of this and go home.” Buck said with a smile.

—

After they put all the food and clothes in the back of the Jeep, Buck went to return the shopping cart, and Eddie sat in the passenger seat. Eddie looked to his lap as he put Buck's wallet and keys to the Jeep.

Buck came back a few moments later. As he sat in the driver's seat, Eddie was already handing him the car keys.

“Okay, trade?” he said back with a smile as he took the car keys with one hand, and gave Eddie his phone with the other.
Eddie felt silly but went with it. “Trade.”
—

When Buck opened the door to his apartment, they went inside with all the bags.
Buck put them beside the kitchen island and took his phone.

“So which kind of pizza should I order?” Buck asked

“I don’t care, I have only one condition, no pineapple.” Eddie responded with a chuckle.

“Oh, okay party pooper, would you like one salami and one cheese pizza then?”

“Yeah that sounds like pizza.” Eddie smirked.

“Fine, It should be here in forty minutes. Let’s get you settled then.”

After they sorted the groceries, they cut the tags from the clothes and folded it on the kitchen island.
Buck looked at the clothes and said; “Wait, I forgot to buy you some shoes. Well, we will get some tomorrow then.”

“Well It’s fine I’m fine with -”

“Don’t you dare to say you don’t need shoes. You got only your slippers, not very practical you know.”

“I mean, It’s not like I’m going anywhere.”

“Well, but you can leave the apartment, you know. I only have one condition. You text me or call me when you go somewhere, or if you don't mind, you could share your location with me.”

“You want my location? Are you scared I’m gonna run or something?” Eddie said teasingly.

“Um, I just want to know you’re safe, I will share my location with you anyway, it was just a suggestion. You know, It’s not very safe out there for not mated omega.” Buck said with a frown.

“Fine Buck, just uh, you will have to show me how.” Eddie said and scratched the back of his neck.

“Oh, sorry, I almost forgot to give you your new phone,here you go. There should already be a few numbers saved, mainly mine and Athena’s, but also my sister’s and others from the firehouse.”

“Okay that’s nice, thank you.”

“You can set the phone up, before the pizza is here, still about twenty minutes.”

“Okay, hm, may I ask what’s the wifi password?”

“Sure, It should be ‘Firehose123’ with capital F.” Buck said and his cheeks flushed for a moment. “God, I have to change that.” He mumbled.

“Okay, thanks. You really like fire hoses It seems.” Eddie teased.

“Well It was my- you know, I’ll tell you some other time, It’s not even interesting, just embarrassing.”

“Okay but now I need to know.” Eddie chuckled.

“Ugh, fine. It was my nickname on dating apps. But I deleted all of them like a year ago.”

“Hm, so It’s supposed to show that you are a firefighter or?”

“Well, not exactly. But I don’t think you need to know. When I came up with it I thought it was the perfect nickname, now I’m just embarrassed.” Buck continued.

“Wait, why would that be embarrassing? Maybe if you meant it like- oh.”Eddie said and his face went pink.

Buck’s eyes went wide, and he was opening his mouth to say something but was cut off by knocking on the door. He went to the door, and It was the pizza delivery.

Buck came back with two pizza boxes and put them at the coffee table.

“Take a seat, I’ll grab the plates.” Buck ordered.

Eddie went and sat on the couch, waiting for Buck to bring the plates.
Buck came a few moments later and sat down next to him. Eddie gladly took a plate and put one slice of each on it.
Buck found the tv remote and shuffled through the different channels. They settled on some reality show.

—-

As Eddie finished his last slice of pizza, Buck picked up the empty boxes and went to the kitchen. Eddie picked up their plates and followed Buck. He then awkwardly stood in the kitchen with the plates in his hands.

Buck put the boxes next to the trash can and looked at Eddie. “You can put them in the sink, I’ll wash them. Go take a shower, the towels are on the left.”

“Okay, thanks.” Eddie said and went to grab a T-shirt and shorts from the kitchen island.

“And also, when you want to brush your teeth, take a new toothbrush behind the mirror.”

“Sure, thanks Buck.” Eddie said and went to the bathroom.

Eddie looked to the left and took a gray towel from the wall cabinet. He then stripped his clothes and stepped inside the shower, pulled the shower curtain behind him and let the water fall. When he adjusted the temperature to his liking, he stepped under the stream of water. He felt like all the bad feelings were slowly washing away with the water. Then he looked for a body wash, stepped out of the stream of water and put a little of the body wash in his hand. It smelled like caramel. He started rubbing it on his body, and the thought of him smelling like Buck made him blush, he quickly shook off the thought and continued applying the body wash. Then he looked at a matching shampoo and put it in his hair. After stepping back under the stream of water, he smelled the caramel scent rushing around him. When he washed everything away, he stopped the shower and dried himself with a towel.
Eddie put his new shorts and T-shirt on and went outside the bathroom.

Buck was just drying the plates, when he came out of the bathroom and approached the kitchen island.

Buck put the plates to the wall cabinet and walked towards the bathroom.
“Now’s my turn. In the meantime, make yourself at home .” Buck said with a smile and went to the bathroom.

Eddie took his phone and went to sit on the couch. He first set up his face ID as his phone wouldn’t shut up until it was done. Then he set up pin code, Eddie wasn’t feeling very creative so he went with four zeros.

As Eddie was looking to download some apps, Buck came and sat next to him.

“Mhm, you smell nice. Oh I forgot to buy you body wash and shampoo you would like.”

“No, I like this one, if you don’t mind I would be using yours.” Eddie said, and his cheeks flushed.

“Okay, that’s fine, If you don’t mind that you will smell like me.” Buck said teasingly.

“I don’t mind that.” Eddie responded shyly.

Buck smiled at him. “ Would you mind if I hug you?”

“That would be nice.” Eddie said hesitantly.

Buck wrapped arm around Eddie and rested his chin on top of Eddie’s head. Eddie put his head between Buck’s shoulder and neck. He inhaled the scent of caramel from Buck’s body wash.
“You really like that caramel smell huh?” Buck said quietly.

“It’s nice.” Eddie said shyly.

Buck pulled Eddie slightly closer, and started drawing circles around Eddie's back.
After a few minutes Eddie said quietly; “I’m kinda tired.”
“Of course, let’s get you to bed.” Buck replied.

They let go of the hug and Eddie followed Buck to the stairs leading to the loft.
When they got up to the loft, Buck pointed at the bed and said; “You will sleep here, I’ll take the couch.”

“I can take the couch Buck, I don’t mind.”

“That’s sweet, but I won’t let you take the couch, so make yourself comfortable.”

“Okay boss.” Eddie replied teasingly as he got into the bed and put his phone on the nightstand.

“If you need anything, I’m downstairs okay?”

“Okay. Goodnight Buck.”

“Goodnight Eddie.”

Buck went downstairs, and Eddie turned to his side and fell asleep a few moments later.

Chapter Text

Buck’s POV

Buck suddenly woke up, It was still dark outside. He was about to roll over and try to go back to sleep again, but he heard some noise upstairs, so he got up and went to investigate. As he approached the bed, he saw Eddie kicked off his blanket and was trembling.
Buck slowly put a hand on Eddie’s shoulder.

“Hey Eddie, It’s okay, It’s just a bad dream.” Buck whispered as he saw Eddie open his eyes.

“I—I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to wake you up.” Eddie said quietly, holding back tears.

“Don’t worry about that.” Buck said and lied next to Eddie. “C’mere.” he said and opened his arms.

Eddie hummed and moved into the hug. He pressed his head into Buck’s neck and put his left hand on Buck’s back. Buck pulled him into embrace. “You are safe now.” Buck whispered. Eddie just hummed and tightened his grip on Buck.

“Would you like me to stay with you tonight?” Buck whispered.

Eddie just nodded nervously.

“Okay, I’ll stay.” Buck said and slowly stroked Eddie’s back. “You wanna talk about it?” he continued.

Eddie shaked his head and buried it in Buck's neck.

“Okay, try to get some sleep then.” Buck said and pulled the blanket over them.

—***

“You can’t run away from me Hun. It will only result in more punishment, to make sure you know where you belong.” Thomas said with a grin.

Eddie opened his eyes and looked around, he was tied in Thomas’s bed. He started crying as Thomas approached. “Let’s see how long till you pass out.” Thomas said while approaching him. Thomas was reaching to grab Eddie’s legs, but as he put hands around Eddie’s ankles…

Eddie woke up.
Eddie was relieved to see Buck’s face with the little light appearing from downstairs.

As Buck pulled him to his embrace, Eddie felt relieved and safe.

Why would someone care so much for him? Someone he met a few days ago cared more than his own parents? Tears rolled down his face at the thought. He felt them soak into Buck's shirt, and drifted off.

—*

Eddie woke up, still in Buck’s embrace. He didn't want to move so he wouldn't wake him up.
He closed his eyes and inhaled the scent of caramel, they shared. He felt like he could stay that way forever. Feeling safe and protected, like he matters.

Did he ever feel safer than in Buck’s embrace?
Held by those big muscular arms, snuggled into Buck’s chest.

Since the first time Buck held him and carried him to the hospital, It just felt right to trust Buck. Like there was a voice in the back of his head whispering ‘Buck safe Buck safe’ over and over.

Eddie never liked to show weakness or ask for help, as his father was always scolding him for not acting like a man. To never show his feelings, to have a guard up constantly. But in Buck’s embrace, all the walls he had built crumbled down. It feels like he found something that he was missing his whole life, without even knowing. It’s almost too good to be true.

Why would someone even care this much, let alone someone who knows me for just about three days. He thought to himself.

What if Buck will find out how broken and useless I am and throw me away just like my parents did. As this thought sank in Eddie’s mind, tears emerged in his eyes, he tried to hold them, but the more he tried, the more he just wanted to cry more.

—

Buck woke up, as he felt something wet on his neck. When he slowly opened his eyes, he remembered he fell asleep soothing Eddie from having nightmares. He didn’t know why, but it calmed him down too. Buck had nightmares too, not so often anymore at least. Even though he didn’t sleep all night, It felt like the best sleep he had in a long time.

But then he heard a few quiet sobs and pieced those two things together. He pulled slightly away, just to get a look at Eddie. When he saw Eddie’s face, eyes closed and red from crying, he almost started crying too. He felt like he failed Eddie, tight in his embrace, protected and safe, yet still sad.

“Good morning, are you okay, Hun?” Buck said quietly.

Eddie’s eyes shot open and he started trembling. “ N—no, please!” he almost shouted, “P–please don’t—call me that.” he said when he looked at Buck’s face. Eddie then shoved his head to Buck’s chest.

It took Buck a second to figure out why he wouldn’t want to be called that.
Oh my god, did the kidnaper call him that? Buck froze for a moment.

“I’m so sorry Eddie, I didn’t know.” Buck’s voice cracked.” I—uh, I’m so bad at this, I can’t even soothe you without making you cry again.” Buck said with hurt in his voice.

While Buck was holding back tears, Eddie moved his head back and looked up to him.

“It’s okay Buck, there was no way for you to know that he called me that. Don’t worry about it.” Eddie said while looking in Buck’s eyes.

“I—uh, I guess, but I’m sorry anyway.” Buck said, “But you were crying before that, would you like to talk about that?” he continued with a soft voice.

“Um, sorry, I—maybe later, okay? I’m not good with words an-and I don’t want to say something bad.” Eddie said as he broke eye contact.

“Take your time, that’s fine. I just want you to know that you can tell me anything, okay? There is nothing that would make me mad at you or leave you.” Buck said as he rubbed Eddie’s back.

Anything? Does he mean that? In the end, there’s nothing else to lose anyway. Eddie thought to himself.

“Um sorry, I was just thinking before.” Eddie said hesitantly.
Buck hummed and kept rubbing Eddie’s back.

“I just, you know, was thinking why would you even help me.” Eddie continued.

“Well, how could I not. Um, I know how it feels to have no one and nowhere to go.” Buck said with a soft voice, “I know what that did to me. If Athena hadn’t found me in time, I wouldn’t be here.” Buck said and frowned. “From now on you are part of my family, If that’s okay with you.”

“I—I would like that.” Eddie said and put his head back to Buck’s chest. “And sorry for crying earlier. I just felt like, once you find out how broken and useless I am, you would leave me, just like my parents.” Eddie said and dug deeper to Buck’s chest.

“You are not broken or useless Eddie.” Buck said softly, “ You were hurt, and you need to heal, not just physically, but mentally too. Which reminds me, I talked to our department terapist, If he would have time for you.” He said, “Are you okay with talking to a therapist?”

“I guess I can try.” Eddie said quietly.

“Glad to hear that.” Buck whispered.

“We should get some breakfast, You can stay here and I'll make something.” Buck said as he slowly sat up. “ Would you like pancakes?”

“Yeah, that sounds nice.” Eddie said shyly.

“Great, I ‘ll call you when it's done.” Buck replied. “ Or you know, you can come down before that. Make yourself at home.” he continued as he stood up from the bed and went slowly down the stairs.

Eddie turned around in bed and grabbed his phone from the nightstand. There was a message from Athena.

Athena: Hi Eddie, It’s Athena. How are you?

Eddie is hesitant to answer back, but he remembered talking to her in the hospital and she was nice to him. It would be rude to ignore her text.

Eddie: Hi, I think I’m fine. Thank you for helping me.

He was about to put the phone down, when he got a new message.

Athena: Don’t thank me, Buck was the one who took the charge. I don’t want to ruin the surprise, I’m sure he will tell you soon enough.

Athena: How’s bonding with Buck? I hope your first day with him wasn’t too overwhelming. He just cares a lot. But don’t be scared to push back if you don’t like something, okay.

Eddie read through the two texts and started typing the reply, feeling more confident.

Eddie: Buck’s nice and kind. He bought me some clothes, as I had literally nothing. Even got me this phone.

Eddie: The first day wasn’t overwhelming, I think It was the happiest day I had in a while. Having someone to care so much about me. I’m not really used to that.

As Eddie sent the replies, Buck was calling him downstairs for breakfast.

Eddie took his phone and got up from bed, stretched his arms and went downstairs.

“Oh hello sleepy.” Buck said teasingly as he was putting the pancakes on plates.

“Mhm, I’m sorry I woke you up last night.” Eddie said shyly.

“Don’t worry about that Eds, It’s fine. I slept pretty well honestly.” Buck replied.

“Well I guess the bed is more comfortable than the couch.” Eddie teased.

“Yes that’s true but you will still keep the bed. The couch is way better than the bunk beds at the station.”

“I get that you won’t let me sleep on the couch.” Eddie said and looked away, “You know, we could—um, share the bed.” Eddie said hesitantly, “Um—I, I don’t want to be alone at night, at least for a few nights if you don’t mind.” he quickly continued, looking at the ground.

“Of course Eds, anything you need.” Buck said and smiled. “Now let’s eat.”

Eddie smiled and sat down.

—

“Thank you Buck, those pancakes were amazing.” Eddie said as he stood up from the chair.

“I’m glad you liked It.” Buck replied as he picked the plates and put them to sink.

“Athena texted me earlier.” Eddie blurred out.

“And what did she say?” Buck asked with a smile as he was cleaning the mess he made in the kitchen preparing the breakfast.

“She asked how I was doing and If I wasn’t overwhelmed by your care.” Eddie said and chuckled slightly.

“Oh, a—and what did you reply?” Buck said hesitantly.

“That is a private conversation Buck!” Eddie said teasingly.

“Um, okay, sorry.” Buck said and started filling the sink to wash the dishes.

“I’m joking Buck, I said I’m fine and that I’m not overwhelmed by you.” he said and came next to Buck, “I said that yesterday was probably one of the best days I had in a while.” he said shyly.

“Really? Aw, I’m glad to hear that.” Buck said with a smile.

“Thank you Buck.”

“For what?”

“For not giving up on me.”

“Eddie, I will never give up on you.” Buck said and stopped the water, “C’mere.” he said and pulled Eddie into a hug.

—

Buck’s POV

After they finished the dishes, Buck was cleaning them and Eddie was drying them with a towel, Buck was holding his excitement.

“Um, I have something like a surprise for you.” Buck said with a wide smile.

“Oh, and what is it? Athena said you’re planning something.” Eddie said with a teasing smile.

“Really? Already ganging up on me hm?” Buck teased,

“What? I did nothing, she told me! Not what the surprise is, just that there is one.” Eddie said dramatically and started laughing afterwards.

“Hm, okay, I believe you.” Buck said and rolled his eyes, “So I made some calls when you were in hospital…” he trailed off, “ And first I need to ask you something.”

“Okay, what is it?”

“Would you mind having my address as your place of residence? It would be listed as your home address more or less.” Buck said hesitantly.

“I—I don’t have a problem with that, If that would be okay with you.” Eddie replied.

“If I had a problem with that, I wouldn’t be offering this to you.” Buck said softly.

“So It’s yes then.” Eddie said and smiled.

“Great, but that isn’t a surprise yet.” Buck said and went to grab something from a drawer in the kitchen.

Buck then came back, “ Show me your hands please.” he said softly.

Eddie complied and held out his hands, palms facing up.
Buck smiled and put keys to Eddie’s left and a black wallet to Eddie’s right hand.

“These are the keys to this apartment, and this may be your wallet, but if you don’t like it I’ll get you–” he was cut off by Eddie, “No no, I like It, thank you.” Eddie said with a smile.

“Well, I know It feels empty right now, but that’s why I made those calls. You will get your new ID and your driver’s license In a week, and don’t worry, I’ll give you some cash too.” he teased at the end.

“I—I don’t know what to say. Thank you Buck.” Eddie said and a few tears escaped his eyes.

“Oh Eds, c’mere. I just want you to have everything you need and anything you want.” Buck said and squeezed Eddie in a hug.

Eddie accepted the hug, buried his head to Buck’s chest, and wiped his tears to Buck’s T-shirt.

“Excuse me? Do I look like a tissue to you?” Buck said teasingly.

“I’m sowy.” Eddie said teasingly.

“Hm, are you really? You are lucky you are so sweet.”

“Mhm?” Eddie giggled.

“So cute.” Buck whispered, and rested his chin on top of Eddie’s head.

“Using you as a napkin is cute?” Eddie blurred out and started laughing into Buck’s chest.

Buck tensed, “Um, I—uh, well -” Buck trailed off.

Eddie tightened his embrace, “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to startle you.” he said teasingly to Buck’s chest.

Buck’s muscles stiffened, not moving and didn’t answer.

“Well you were cute when you weren't so tense. I didn’t mean to make you uncomfortable.” Eddie said softly, and was about to let go of Buck, but Buck pulled him back. “I’m sorry, I just, I didn’t mean to say that out loud.” Buck said apologetically, his cheeks flushed red.

“I don’t mind Buck, It’s fine.” Eddie said softly. He then inhaled deeply and blew the air through his mouth to Buck’s chest.

“Hey! What do you think you are doing sir?” Buck said dramatically, and chuckled slightly.

“Nothing sir.” Eddie said teasingly.

Buck’s body relaxed, “For your sake, I hope you’re not ticklish.” Buck said teasingly.

“Oh, so that’s how it is. You're gonna punish me for teasing by more teasing. Hm, so grown up from you.” Eddie said teasingly.

“Well, you still didn’t answer the question.” Buck said and slowly started moving his hands from Eddie’s lower back to his hips.

“Wait, that’s not fair!” Eddie almost screamed, “You are taking advantage of a helpless little Omega.” Eddie laughed and moved his hands to Buck’s hips and started to move them up.

“Mhm, you don’t seem very helpless, you are already fighting back.” Buck said and started moving his hands up slowly too.

“I don’t think it will make any difference though.” Eddie said numbly, and stopped moving his hands.

Buck stopped his hands as well, and moved them back to Eddie’s back, one to his lower back and the other over his shoulder blades. He started to stroke Eddie’s upper back.

“Of course It makes a difference, If you don’t like something, then do something about it, talk about it.” Buck said softly.

“I wouldn’t have a chance against you.” Eddie said quietly, his forehead resting on Buck’s chest.

“Of course you would Eds.” Buck tried to reassure, “Because I would never hurt you. Never.” he said softly.

“I trust you, or at least I’m trying to.” Eddie said, his body stiffened, “I mean, Thomas was kind of nice in the beginning too.” Eddie said quietly, his voice breaking at the end.

Buck was stunned. He was filled with anger, he hated Thomas even more now. Anger changed to sadness and he felt powerless.

Will Eddie ever trust me? he thought to himself.

He was brought back from thinking, “A—are you okay?” Eddie asked hesitantly, looking up at him.

“I–”his voice cracked. He was crying. “Uh I’m sorry, I’m fine.” Buck said and brought his hand from Eddie’s back to wipe his face. “I’m sorry, I—I should have let you choose.” Buck said, with sadness in his voice.

“W—what do you mean? It’s okay. I’m fine.” Eddie said, still looking up at Buck.

“I should have let you choose where you would want to stay. You could have stayed with Athena or we could have found something else out, somewhere you would feel safe.” Buck said, with a broken and tired voice.
Buck was about to let go of the hug, but Eddie stopped him this time.

“Buck, stop, please.” Eddie tightened his grasp, “I feel safe with you and I will trust you, I just need a little time for that.” he smiled as he was looking up to Bucks eyes, “I’m not saying you are him, I would choose you anyway.” he said softly, “Thank you for choosing me Buck.”he said and burrowed his head back to Buck’s chest.

“I will always choose you Eddie.” Buck said with a calmer voice.

“Then just give me time to get used to that.” Eddie said softly.

“Anything you need.” Buck said and stroked Eddie’s back.

“I think we should get some air, what about the beach?” Buck said softly.

“I think I have never been to one, that would be nice.” Eddie said happily.

“Okay, go get changed, and I will prepare a snack to take with us.”

“Um, I don’t have a swimsuit.” Eddie said hesitantly.

“Oh, don’t worry I should have spare swim shorts, or we can buy them on the way there.” Buck said with a smile.

“Thanks Buck.”

Buck went upstairs to his cupboard and took three pairs of swim shorts out, one azure blue, second was red with white stripes on the sides, and the third was rainbow colored with unicorns.

“Try them on and if they fit, you can keep them, but we can still buy you new ones next time.” Buck said with a smile and went downstairs.

—

Eddie’s POV

Eddie tried the azure ones, and they were too big. He sighed and giggled slightly and put them on the side. When he tried the second one he was still giggling and they were still too big for him to wear. He was pretty sure the last one won’t fit either, but tried them anyway. Eddie wasn’t surprised when they wouldn't fit either. He put them all aside and put his shorts back on.
He went hesitantly downstairs, he heard Buck saying goodbye to Athena, so he quietly approached.

“Um, all of them are too big.” Eddie said with a smirk.

“Okay we will buy them on the way there then, you will at least be able to choose the ones you would like.” Buck said and picked his phone, keys and wallet, “Are you ready to go?”

“I will just grab my phone.” Eddie said and went to go upstairs, but Buck stopped him,” It’s here on the kitchen island.”

“Oh, thanks.” Eddie said and went to the door.”

“Take these flip flops.” Buck said and put them down before Eddie.

“Thanks.”

Eddie put them on and followed Buck out of the door.

—

The drive to the store was quiet, only interrupted by Buck’s Spotify playlist, but It wasn’t uncomfortable, It was calm, and Eddie liked the songs playing, humming to them. Buck was smiling and broke the ‘silence’, “I can get you Spotify on your phone, if you’d like.”

“I’ll think about it.” Eddie said and started singing along quietly.

Buck looked at him as they stopped at the red light, and smiled.

The rest of the drive to the store was filled with both of them singing along and giggling.

—

When they arrived at the parking lot, they got out of the car, still giggling, on their way to the clothing store.

They went straight to the section with swim shorts. Eddie was going through the different options. He settled on simple pastel pink shorts, and went to try them on in the changing room. He came happily back to Buck, “I like these.” he said with a smile.

“Good choice, let’s go then.” Buck said, took the shorts and went to pay for them.

Chapter Text

Buck’s POV

They were on their way to the beach. They sang along to the songs playing, having fun singing a few duets. 

As they parked near the beach, they finished singing the song, “I’ll need to change into shorts.” Eddie said.

“You can change in the backseat, I’ll wait outside.” Buck said with a smile.

Eddie nodded, and got in the backseat. 

Buck was looking through the bag he brought with food and drinks, and put his phone and wallet inside.

Eddie came back from the car in the new shorts, “ How do I look?” he said with a smile.

“You look handsome, those were a good choice.” Buck said and smiled.

“Aww, thank you, you’re sweet.” Eddie said and his cheeks flushed pink. 

Buck’s face flushed pink, “Don’t flatter me while acting this cute, I’m not sure I can handle that.” 

Eddie laughed and put his phone and wallet to the bag Buck was holding, “I’ll try, but I can’t promise anything.” he said with a smirk. 

“Okay you tease, you can act cute and tease me at the beach, let’s go.” Buck said and started walking towards the beach. 

“Mhm, I’ll think about it.” Eddie smirked and followed Buck.

They arrived at the beach, Buck took a blanket out of the bag, and spread it out. He put the bag on the blanket, and put towels from the bag next to it. 

Eddie took his phone from the bag and took a picture of the sea, then he turned back, “Smile for the camera please.” 

Buck sighed, “Just coz, you’re asking so nicely.” he said and smiled.

Eddie snapped a few photos, and then flipped the camera, sat next to Buck and snapped a few selfies with Buck. Buck started making faces after the first few serious ones and Eddie was giggling at them.

“Okay, wanna go for a swim?” Buck asked after they stopped giggling.

“Sure, let’s go.” Eddie replied eagerly.

They both got up and Eddie ran towards the sea, Buck chuckled and followed him, keeping an eye on their belongings.

Eddie got his feet wet and continued onward, after a few steps the water reached his calves. He looked so happy. Buck had a wide smile looking at him. As Eddie moved further and water reached his thighs, he stopped moving, “Uh, Why is it so cold all of a sudden?” he blurted out.

“You mean at the bottom?” Buck said as he chuckled. 

“Yeah. Mhm, you laughing at me?” Eddie teased and splashed a little water at Buck.

“No, I’m just happy. And because It’s your first time here, I’ll give you a chance to surrender.” Buck smirked.

Eddie looked him in the eyes and splashed water at him.

Buck looked at him dramatically, “Okay, I see you’ve chosen, WAR!” Buck said and moved towards him.

Eddie giggled and tried to run away, but Buck caught up to him, hugged him from behind, “Breathe in!” Buck shouted and dragged him underwater. Buck turned Eddie around and quickly got his head above water.

Eddie spat out water and opened his eyes, Buck was looking at him while he was holding him. He got Eddie's legs around his lower back and he was holding Eddie with his arms.

“It almost seems like you like holding me.” Eddie said with a smirk as he wiped his eyes.

“Well, you don’t seem to mind either.” Buck smirked.

Eddie blushed, and Buck chuckled, “I take that as a yes.” he said.

Eddie tried to hide in Buck’s chest, but that made Buck laugh.

“Okay shy boy, how about we eat something?” Buck said softly.

Eddie just hummed. “Okay, would you like me to carry you there?” Buck said teasingly.

“Yup.” Eddie said and chuckled.

Buck laughed, “Okay Boss.” he teased and started moving out of the sea to their blanket. 

As Buck got to their blanket, he wanted to lay Eddie on one of the towels, but Eddie wouldn’t let go of him. 

“What’s up? My shy boy is too shy to sit on his own?” Buck teased, and sat down with Eddie in his lap on one of the towels, then took the second and pulled it over Eddie’s back.

“Maybe I just enjoy cuddling.” Eddie said hesitantly.

“Oh, I noticed.” Buck chuckled and started stroking Eddie’s back through the towel, “I almost forgot, we have to apply sunscreen.” Buck said and turned to their bag and took the sunscreen.

“Do you want me to do it, or you will be a big boy and do it yourself?” Buck teased.

“Mhm, you can do it.” Eddie said and looked up to Buck’s eyes with a smirk.

“Hm, not so shy anymore, I see.” he said and put a sunscreen to his hand, “As you wish.” he said and massaged the cream to Eddie’s face, carefully avoiding his eyes.

When he was done, he put down the towel and put more sunscreen to his hands and rubbed it onto Eddie’s back, chest and stomach. He continued like this and applied the sunscreen to Eddie’s arms and legs as well. 

When he wanted to apply some to himself, Eddie stopped him, “Okay, now is my turn to take care of you.” he said and took the sunscreen from Buck.

“Oh thank you.” Buck said and lay down.

Eddie then applied the sunscreen in the same order Buck did.

When he was done, Buck took sandwiches and ice tea from the bag.

After finishing the snack, Eddie took his phone and snapped a few more pictures.

As Eddie was taking some more pictures, he smelled a light nice smell. It was getting stronger, a nice vanilla scent with a musky end, It smelled nice, almost calming.

“Something smells nice here.” he said with a smile.

“What? I can’t smell anything.” Buck said, confused, “Oh—wait, fuck.” Buck blurted out.

“I forgot to take scent blockers.” Buck said hesitantly.

“Like, for your scent glands?” Eddie asked curiously.

“Yeah, I used them a lot since I became a firefighter, but I stopped using them after others found out that I’m an Alpha.” Buck said hesitantly, “I - I didn’t want anyone to know, I didn’t want to be treated differently.”

“And you started taking them again? Why?” 

“Um, I—I just didn’t want your first impression of me…” he trailed off.

“Being an Alpha.” Eddie finished. 

Buck nodded and looked to his lap, “I—uh, when you described your experience, being an Omega, I just didn’t want to make you uncomfortable by my scent.” he said hesitantly, “ I wanted to tell you about it in a few days, when we get to know each other better.” he continued.

“Mhm, I get it Buck, you were trying to protect me.” Eddie said softly, “I didn’t really pay attention to scents before I presented as omega.”

“I should have told you anyway, I don’t want to have secrets from you.” Buck said, still looking at his lap.

“Don’t worry about it Buck, I feel safe with you, you being an Alpha doesn’t change that.” Eddie said and hugged Buck from behind.

Buck hummed, “I also would have asked you If you would like to use those suppressants.”

“Um, I never thought about my scent.” Eddie said.

“Y—yeah, you smell nice.” Buck said and blushed.

“How do I smell?” Eddie asked.

“Normally you smell like honey.” Buck said, still blushing.

“Normally? Does it change?”

“Yeah, It depends on your mood.” he said hesitantly.

“Oh so you can scent my mood?”

“Um, you have to learn the changes first, I know that your scent gets sweeter when you are happy, and when you are scared It was thick and bitter. But I haven’t connected with other emotions yet.”

“Will I be able to scent yours?” 

“If you don't mind my scent, I can stop taking the blockers If you want. You can ask me how I feel when you scent a change.”

“I would like that.” Eddie said and smiled. Then took his phone and took a photo of them while hugging Buck from behind.

Once both of them felt tired and their shorts were dry,they packed their stuff and headed to the car. 

Buck put their bag to the backseat and they were on their way.

After a few songs they sang along to, Eddie smelled a change in Buck’s scent, “And what are you feeling now?” Eddie asked hesitantly.

“I’m very happy right now.” Buck said without hesitation.

—-

Eddie POV

After arriving in the apartment, Buck started to take things out of their bag, “You can go to the shower first, wash that salt and sand off.” he said and continued to take things out of the bag.

“Yeah, okay.” Eddie said and went to take some clothes to change to and went to shower.

After the shower, he dressed in his sweatshirt and a purple T-shirt and went out of the bathroom.

Buck smiled at him and went to the bathroom.

Eddie took his phone and looked at the pictures he took at the beach. While scrolling and smiling, he came across a selfie with Buck, him hugging Buck from behind and his head on Buck’s shoulders, both smiling. He smiled and without thinking made it his phone wallpaper.

After a few minutes of more scrolling, his phone dramatically told him that the battery was low. He sighed and went upstairs to the loft, he put it on the charger on the nightstand and laid down on the bed.

After a few minutes, he heard Buck open the bathroom door and then a few moments later Buck walked to bed, “Are you tired?” Buck said, looking at Eddie sprawled out on the bed. 

“Mhm, a little maybe but It’s fine.” Eddie replied and turned to him.

“We could play a game or we could watch tv. But we can just rest.” Buck said and smiled.

“What game would we play?” 

“You can choose, I have a few.” 

“Okay we can play.” Eddie said with a smile

Buck smiled, “Sure, let’s go downstairs.”

They were choosing a game to play, and one game caught Eddie’s eye, it was a 2D fighting game.

“Okay let’s try it, but don’t think I’ll be holding back just because you’re playing it for the first time.” Buck said with a smirk. 

“Let’s see then.” Eddie said with a smirk.

—

After a few games, It was around five pm. Buck put the controller down, “What would you like for dinner?”he asked.

“I don’t know, why don’t you choose?”Eddie replied.

“Mhm, okay, what about Thai food?” 

“Okay sounds good.”

Buck took his phone from the coffee table and opened the menu of his favorite Thai restaurant, “Take a look and pick what you would like.” Buck said and handed Eddie his phone.

Once they both picked a meal, Buck ordered it and they went back to playing. 

In the middle of their fight they heard knocking, Buck went to open the door and Eddie put down the controller. Buck came back with their food, turned the game off, and opened Netflix.

They picked a movie and started eating. Eddie was struggling with the chopsticks, but Buck taught him how to use them.

When the movie ended, they picked one more and Buck made them ice cream bowls.

After the second movie ended, Eddie was tired, “I’m gonna get ready for bed I think.” he said and yawned.

“Sure, I’ll clean the dishes and join you in bed…if you still want that.” Buck asked a little hesitantly.

“Yes, please.” Eddie practically whined.

“Okay.” Buck said with a smile, picked the bowls from the coffee table and went to the kitchen.

Eddie went to the bathroom to brush his teeth and get changed to a new T-shirt and shorts.

Afterwards he went to bed, he took his phone from the charger and looked at the photo of him and Buck, he must have applied it also to the lock screen. He smiled and put the phone back to the night stand.

Buck came a few minutes later, he tried to approach the bed quietly.

“I’m not asleep.” Eddie said teasingly.

Buck jumped slightly, startled and got quickly to bed. 

Eddie moved to him and put arms around him.

Buck hummed and put his arms around Eddie.

They both fell asleep a few minutes later.

Chapter Text

“Where do you think you’re going Evan? You have nowhere to go.” 

“I don’t care, I can’t stay here any longer.”

“We are your parents Evan.”

“It doesn’t feel like it.”

“How dare you say that. You always act like this and expect us to love you.”

YOU ARE UNLOVABLE.

“I—I” Buck trailed off and tried to run. But in the main doors was someone blocking the way.

“Eddie? What -” Buck was cut off. 

“I hate you Buck, I will never love you, you pathetic liar.”Eddie yelled and left.

Buck dropped to his knees and started crying.

He woke up, still in Eddie’s embrace. He slowly calmed down and fell back to sleep.

—-

“Eddie? Are you ready?” Ramon said

“For what?” Eddie said, confused.

“To meet your new owner, silly.” Helen said.

“What?” Eddie said and his hands were trembling.

“Let’s go, He’s a good Alpha for you, and paid well to get his hands on you.” Ramon said with a smile.

Eddie wanted to run, but he couldn’t, he looked down to his legs and they were shackled as well as his hands.

“Come on in, Buck, meet your new toy.”Ramon said towards the door.

Eddie felt like he was hit by a bus when he heard that name. He dropped to his knees.

A hand pulled his chin up, “That's a good start, looks like I will have a lot of fun, using you.” Buck said, and licked Eddie’s face. 

Eddie woke up in Buck’s embrace, and panicked. He pulled himself away and ran down the stairs. He sat on a couch and started crying. He fell asleep after a few minutes.

—

“Oh, hello Hun, I missed you.”

“What? Where am I?”

“Somewhere not even your new boyfriend will be able to find it.” Thomas said and laughed.

“I don’t have a boyfriend.” 

“Haha, if you say so. It doesn’t matter…I killed him.”

“You what?” Eddie said and started crying.

“I mean, he stole you from me. And you didn’t even like him, I had to save you.”

“He was the one that saved me, you monster.” Eddie yelled. “I HATE YOU. I will K-” Eddie was cut off.

Eddie woke up on the couch and Buck was holding him in embrace. 

Eddie didn’t know if he wanted to run away from Buck or hug him tighter.

“Everything is fine Eddie, I got you.” Buck said softly as he stroked Eddies back.

“I - I’m sorry, I had a nightmare, two actually.”Eddie said quietly.

“Wanna talk about it?”

“I don’t know.”

“That’s fine.” Buck said softly, “I had a nightmare too.”

“Wanna talk about it?”

“Mhm, no, maybe in the morning.”

“Okay.”Eddie whispered.

“We should get some more sleep, I will call Frank in the morning, if he could have a session with you today.”

Eddie hummed.

“Let’s get you to bed.” Buck said and picked Eddie and carried him upstairs.

Buck laid Eddie down to bed, “Do you still want me here?” Buck said hesitantly.

“Sure.” Eddie said quietly and moved more to his side of the bed.

Buck hummed. and laid down to his side, facing away from Eddie.

Eddie smelled a difference in Buck’s smell, It was heavy and bitter. Eddie was hesitant to ask Buck what he’s feeling, “Um, and what are you feeling now?” he blurted out quietly. 

Buck sighed, “I don’t know, It’s a mix. Mix of scared, sad, angry and heartbroken. That nightmare was—a lot.”

Eddie felt bad, Buck must have noticed a change in his scent because he continued, “Don’t worry, I will sleep it off…like I always do.”

Eddie would cry again, if he had any tears left to cry, he fell asleep soon after.

—

Eddie woke up, his forehead buried to Buck’s back, he carefully moved to get his phone, and looked at the time. 

Buck slowly turned to him, “Hello, Eds.” Buck said hoarsely.

“Hi Buck.” Eddie said softly.

Buck cleared his throat, “Would you mind scrambled eggs for breakfast?” Buck asked as he slowly got out of bed.

“Yeah, sure.” Eddie said with a small smile.

“Okay I will call Frank and make breakfast.” Buck said and went downstairs.

Eddie hummed and looked back to his phone. He looked through the App store, looking at what he could Install. He ended up installing Spotify and about two games that looked interesting. After a few minutes of more scrolling Buck called him for breakfast. 

Eddie went downstairs and they ate the scrambled eggs in silence.

Buck eventually broke the silence, “You will have a session with Frank at two pm.”

“Okay.” Eddie said hesitantly.

“You have nothing to worry about, okay, I’ll take you there and wait for you in the waiting room.” Buck said with a smile.

Eddie hummed, took his plate and put it to the sink, “Thank you for the breakfast.” he said and went to sit on the couch. 

Buck joined him and they watched a movie in silence. Almost like they were more focused at their scents changing, and trying to keep calm and not let the other know how they feel.

After the movie ended, Buck stood up,” I’ll make us lunch, how about chicken strips and fries?”

“Mhm.”Eddie responds.

Buck frowned, “Mm, okay” he said quietly and went to the kitchen.

Eddie watched some reality show in the meantime, not paying that much attention, his mind was all over the place.

Am I scared of Buck? Will he hurt me the same way Thomas did? Why did I feel like I was dying when Thomas told me he killed Buck? 

Buck brought him back to reality, when he brought the food and put it on the coffee table in front of him. 

Buck sat down on the opposite side of the couch, as far as he could. didn’t say anything and started eating.

Eddie didn’t need to analyze Buck’s scent to know something is off, Buck looked sad. He didn’t say anything and started eating. 

They ate in silence again, watching some cooking reality show. 

but neither of them really followed what was happening on TV. Both of them were stuck in their heads, only snapped back by the show ending. 

Buck looked at his phone, it was almost one pm. “Okay we should get ready, It’s about a thirty minute drive.” he said.

“Okay, I’ll go get changed.” Eddie said and went upstairs.

Buck went to the bathroom and changed into a black T-shirt and jeans.

Eddie changed into a white T-shirt and jeans, and went downstairs, where Buck was waiting for him.

“I'm ready.” Eddie said.

“Great, let's go.” Buck said and opened the doors.

The drive was silent, except that Buck’s Spotify playlist was playing. No singing along with the songs, no chatting, both still stuck with their thoughts.

Buck accompanied Eddie to the waiting room, and then Eddie was brought to the Franks office.

—

Everything in the room was so bland, and minimalistic, almost no colors, almost everything white. Eddie sat down on the chair and looked at Frank for the first time.

“Hello, my name is Frank.” Frank said after Eddie met his eyes.

“Hi, I’m Eddie.” he said hesitantly.

“How are you today?”

“Um, I don’t know, I'm a little nervous I guess.”

“That’s okay Eddie, what would you like to talk about?”

“I—I don’t know.” he said and looked outside a window to his left.

After a few moments of silence and Eddie looking to his lap, Frank tried to help.

“Buck told me you have been having nightmares, would you tell me about them?” Frank asked.

“Mhm, I think so.” Eddie said hesitantly.

Frank just nodded. 

“I—I, saw Thomas in my nightmares.” he said and looked to the ground, “The first time he wanted to punish me for trying to escape, he was going to use me.”

“You mean sexually?”

“Um, yes, he always used me in my heat, he really enjoyed that.”

“But you didn’t” said Frank, more like a statement than a question.

“No, it hurt a lot.”Eddie said, holding back tears.

“Okay, and what happened next in the nightmare?” 

“He was coming near me while I was tied in his bed, but I woke up before he came too close. Buck woke me up and stayed with me for the rest of the night. I fell asleep in his embrace.”

“And you haven’t got another nightmare afterwards?”

“Not that night, I felt safe.”

“And yesterday you had any nightmares?”

“I had two.”

“And can you tell me about them?”

“Um, I—I was with Buck in bed again, I felt safer with him there.”

Frank nodded, urging him to continue.

“I was at home with my parents and they told me they found a new owner for me.” Eddie said, sobs threatening to escape. “The new owner was Buck.” he blurted out and couldn’t hold back tears anymore, “I woke up and panicked, I ran from the bed downstairs and fell asleep on the couch.” 

“So you are scared of Buck?”

“No, I—I don’t know.” Eddie said hesitantly, “He’s kind, nice and always asks me what I want. I don’t think anyone cared this much about me, not even my parents.”

“But?”

“B—but Thomas was nice too in the beginning, It lasted until my heat.”

“So you are scared Buck will do the same?” 

“I don’t know.” Eddie said looking to his lap, fidgeting with his fingers, “There is part of me that knows he wouldn’t do that, but I don’t know if it’s the omega in me trying to please Alpha or something.”

“Are you scared of him because he’s Alpha?”

“Maybe, I don’t know, maybe it’s because of Thomas.”

“Why do you think that?”

“He used me only for one thing, and never let me do anything on my own. He had all the power.”

“And you feel powerless with Buck?”

Eddie thought about it for a second.

“Um, not really, he’s honest about everything, he asks every time if I’m comfortable doing something, when he holds me I feel safe.”

Frank wrote something down to his notepad, “Hm, okay, can we go back to the second nightmare? That happened on the couch?”

“Uh, yes, I didn’t know where I was, and then Thomas told me that I will never be safe and he will make sure of that. He said, ‘Not even your new boyfriend won’t protect you’.”

“By boyfriend he ment Buck?” 

“Yes, he did.” Eddie said and a few tears escaped his eyes, “He said he killed him.”he said sobbing, “I felt like I was dying, I felt so powerless.” he swiped his tears, “Buck woke me up, and carried me back to bed, when I refused to cuddle, he respected it, but his scent changed.”

“Changed how?”

“Um, he was teaching me how the scent and mood are connected, he said I can ask any time what he’s feeling, so I asked him in bed.” Eddie said and looked briefly at Frank, then back to his lap, “He said he was scared, sad, angry and heartbroken. He said it was coz of the nightmare he had that night.”

“Did he tell you what was in his nightmare?” 

“He said he wasn’t ready to talk about it.”

“Okay, I think that’s enough for our first session.” Frank said and put his notepad to his lap, “Would you tell Buck to come here and you wait outside please?”

“Um, okay.” Eddie said and left the office.

“Um, Frank wants to speak with you now.” Eddie said hesitantly and sat down on a chair.

Buck nodded and went to the office.

—-

Buck’s POV

“So what do you want to talk about?” Buck said politely.

“We can start with the nightmares.” Frank proposed.

“Yeah, Eddie had two last night.”

“I meant your nightmares Buck.”

“I—uh, Eddie told you?”

“He mentioned you told him about it before going to sleep. Was he not supposed to?”

“No, I don’t have a problem with that, I told him I wasn’t ready to talk about it.”

“So you will tell him eventually.”

“Maybe, I don’t know.”

“Is it because of what happened in the dream?”

“I - yes, um, my parents were yelling at me for wanting to move out, saying im unlovable and stuff.” he said and looked outside a window, “And when I tried to run away, Eddie was standing in the doors and said he hates me, he will never love me, and that I’m pathetic liar.” Buck said and looked down to his lap.

“Why do you think he would say that?”

“I - I didn’t tell him I’m alpha, I took suppressants to hide my scent. He found out yesterday when I forgot to take it.”

“So you didn’t want him to know.”

“Not at first I guess. People treated me differently before, and I didn’t want him to be scared of me because of it. And I think he is now.” Buck said and put hands to his face.

“ You mean because of Thomas? But Thomas was beta.”

“He was? I didn’t know that.”

“I found out today when I asked for his file.” Frank said, “Eddie said you felt multiple emotions, after you carried him to bed and laid down.”

“Yeah I told him I was scared, sad, angry and heartbroken, he can ask anytime, to understand the scents better, to practically know my emotions.” Buck said and started fidgeting with his T-shirt, “Eddie then hugged me from behind, all those emotions disappeared in an instant.”

“So you care about him?”

“A lot, and the thought that he hates me or that he’s scared of me is eating me inside.”  

“I - I can’t fall in love with him, it’s not fair to him. I will protect him at all costs, even from me.”

“Do you think you would hurt him?”

“I don’t want to hurt him, I like he would want an Alpha anyway, not after what he’d been through. And I’m not ready to be left behind again, he needs a friend now.”

Frank writes something to his notepad, “Okay I think that’s all for today, I will see you both next week.”

“Okay, thank you.” Buck said and went out of the office.

As Buck came back to the waiting room, “Are you ready to go home?” Buck asked Eddie.

“Yeah, sure.” Eddie said.

Chapter Text

Buck’s POV

On the drive back home Eddie hummed to the songs playing and Buck felt a little calmer hearing that.

When they arrived at the apartment, Buck felt a little better, Eddie looked a little tired from the therapy but also a little more relaxed.

“Would you like Spotify on your phone, as well?”

“That would be nice, thanks.” Eddie said and handed Buck his phone.

When Buck saw the photo, he felt heat swell in his stomach, watching the phone in awe for a moment before snapping out of it.

“It’s locked.” Buck said and offered the phone back to Eddie.

“Same pin as yours.” Eddie said and went upstairs, trying to hide his blushing.

“Oh, okay, may I?” Buck asked, fidgeting with the phone.

“Of course Buck, I wouldn’t tell you the pin otherwise.” Eddie said from the loft.

“Okay, just making sure.” he said and put the pin in and the phone unlocked, he logged to spotify and added Eddie to the plan, “You have it all set up” Buck said louder towards the loft.

“Thank you Buck.” Eddie responded.

Buck went to the stairs, “May I come upstairs, to give you your phone?”

“You don’t have to ask Buck.” Eddie groaned.

“I wasn’t sure if you weren’t changing or something. I think I will have to find a bigger apartment, or maybe a house, to give you more privacy…”

“Calm down Buck, It’s okay…I don’t want to be a burden.”

“You will never be a burden okay? I thought about moving to something a little bigger for quite some time, I just didn’t see a point when I was alone.” Buck said and handed Eddie his phone.

“You are too nice.” Eddie said blushing slightly.

“If you want some space, I can -”

“No Buck it’s fine, I feel safe with you. Okay?”

“Okay” Buck said and smiled.

“I’m just a little tired after all that talking.”Eddie said and dramatically dropped to bed.

“That means it’s working.”Buck said with a smile, “We can watch tv here and rest for the rest of the day.”

“Mhm sure, I don’t think I have energy to do anything else.” Eddie said, “Come and join me, I will need the cuddles right now.” he added and pulled the covers over his head.

“Oh, Is that so? You seemed almost scared of me in the morning.”Buck said with a frown.

“I’m sorry…in one of the nightmares…my parents sold me again after what happened with Thomas. They—they sold me to you and I–I panicked.” Eddie said as he hid his face in the covers.

Bucks Eyes went wide and he bit his lower lip, “ I–is that how you feel about this?” he said and stopped approaching the bed.

“No, I talked about it with Frank, I know you wouldn’t hurt me.” Eddie said, frowning, “It’s just… that Thomas was nice too in the beginning, until…my first heat started.”

“I’m sorry…I never thought about that.” Buck said, looking to the ground, “We–we can get you heat suppressants, you can delay heat up to 6 months safely, if you would like.”he continued hesitantly, “Otherwise, since you aren’t mated it shouldn’t be that bad without an Alpha, you’ll just have to lie in bed...”

“Okay, I’ll think about it.” Eddie said, interrupting Buck’s monologue , “But I really could use a hug right now.”

Buck looked at him, not able to deny him anything, he went to bed next to Eddie, “Anything you need.” he said softly as he put his arms around him.

Eddie put his arms around Buck and buried his head to his chest, “Thank you Buck.”

“Always.” Buck said softly, and turned on the tv.

After one episode of some reality show, Buck took his phone and did something on it for a few minutes.

“What would you like for dinner?” Buck asked as he was still on his phone.

Eddie murmured something to Buck’s chest, then chuckled lightly.

“I don’t understand you cuddle monster, can you say it in english for me, please?” Buck teased.

Eddie chuckled and looked up at Buck's face, “I will show you cuddle monster!” he said teasingly, “Mhm, I don’t know, maybe food would be nice.” he said and chuckled.

“Oh, why didn’t I think of that.” Buck said and looked into Eddie’s eyes, “May I ask you to be more specific please?” he said with a smirk.

“Ugh, maybe a burger or something.” Eddie said, rolling his eyes.

“Thank you, you can go back to sleep now.” Buck teased.

“I’m just enjoying the cuddles.”Eddie said and buried his head back in Buck's chest.

Buck chuckled and looked back to his phone, ordering some groceries for tomorrow and the requested burgers. Once he got everything ordered, he put the phone next to them on the bed, started stroking Eddie’s back and continued watching the tv.

Once Buck heard knocking on the main door, he carefully moved out of Eddie’s embrace and left to open the door. He thanked the delivery guy and prepared the burgers on plates. Then he placed them on the coffee table and went to get Eddie.

When he got to the bed Eddie was still asleep in the same position he left him in. He tried to wake him up, but he would only whine that he’s tired. Buck grabbed him and carried him downstairs, “You have to eat something, sleepy.” Buck said softly as he carried him downstairs.

Buck placed him on the couch, Eddie whined and opened his eyes, “Mhm, why are you waking me up?” Eddie said as he rubbed his eyes.

“So you can eat dinner.”Buck said and looked at him with a smile, “You can go back to sleep after dinner.” Buck said softly.

“Only if you will be there with me.” Eddie said with a smirk.

“Only if you are not scared of me.” Buck said with a frown and sat down next to him.

“I—I’m sorry Buck, I’m not scared of you, I just… panicked after that nightmare.” Eddie said and cleared his throat, “My parents were there, and – they said they found a new owner after what happened.” Eddie said and looked to his lap.

“It was me.” Buck said quietly.

Eddie noticed a change in Buck's scent, it was similar to the one he had after those nightmares.

“But that was only a nightmare, I talked about it with Frank.”Eddie tried to sooth him, “It was most likely, because Thomas was also nice in the beginning.” Eddie said and moved to Buck and clasped his arms around him, “But I trust you Buck, you are going out of your way to make me feel safe and to make me feel like I matter. I could never possibly hate you Buck.” Eddie said and squeezed him. 

Buck looked at Eddie, “In my nightmare I was running from my parents and you stood in the doors.”Buck said hoarsely and cleared his throat, “You–you said that you hate me and you will never lo– like me.” he continued and looked to his lap.

“Why would you think that?” Eddie said softly.

“I–I don’t know, I–I always do something that drives people away, people I care about, they leave, and I end up alone again.” Buck finished almost sobbing.

“I’m not gonna leave you Buck.”Eddie said softly, “You are my family now, my best friend, so get used to it.” he said and poked Buck’s hip.

Buck chuckled, “I would love that.” he said softly and took Eddie to his lap and hugged him, “So you better get used to my overprotectiveness.” Buck teased and stroked Eddie’s back. 

“I’ll try, but now… I’m hungry.” Eddie said and moved out of Buck’s lap and started eating.

“Yeah I could eat too.” Buck said and turned on the tv.

After finishing their meal, they turned the tv off and went to the kitchen. Buck put the plates to the sink and washed his hands, Eddie came afterwards and washed his hands too. Then they went to brush their teeth together. 

When they left the bathroom they went straight to bed, Eddie took his jeans and T-shirt off and took a new T-shirt and disappeared under the blanket.

Buck looked at him stunned, then took his jeans off and changed to a different T-shirt. When he was done he got to his side of bed and laid down.

Eddie practically launched at him and put his arms around him. 

Buck clasped his arms around him and started drawing circles with his fingers on Eddie’s shoulders.  

Buck turned on the tv and lowered the volume. 

He was watching some reality show, but he was more focused on Eddie sleeping on his chest. He looked at Eddie and realized that he was getting hard. 

His body tensed, he tried to ignore it.

This can’t be happening, we are best friends. Buck is screaming inside his head. 

I can’t lose him. He’s repeating to himself.

After a few minutes, he turned the tv off and tried to sleep, still thinking. He fell asleep after a few minutes.

Buck woke up when Eddie was trembling in his embrace, “Hey Eddie, you’re safe, I’m here.” he said softly and stroked Eddie’s back. 

Eddie hummed, “I’m sorry, I’m such a disappointment.” he said half asleep.

Buck kissed the top of his head, “You are not a disappointment, you’re mine.” Buck said, a little stunned about what he just said. Not mine Not mine.

But Eddie just hummed unbothered to his chest and drifted off back to sleep.

—-

Eddie woke up in Buck’s embrace, half asleep, “You are— , you’re mine .” Eddie heard and fell asleep again. 

You’re mine, You’re mine, You’re mine. Eddie kept hearing in his dream.

He put his hand to his chest, 

Yours, I’m yours, I'm yours. His heart kept repeating.

Suddenly a deafening silence took place, Eddie looked up and saw Buck, looking at him, “ I wanna be yours, I wanted you to be mine.” Buck said with an angelic voice.

“I want to give you all my love.” Eddie said.

Buck cupped his face and smiled.

Eddie was so happy, but suddenly everything turned to dust, darkness swallowed him.

You don't deserve him. You are worthless.

You are best friends, nothing more.

He will never want you.

When he finds out how useless you are, he will throw you away.

—-

They woke up in the morning, both tangled to each other. Buck wanted to move, but Eddie refused to let go of him.

“Please, I don’t wanna be alone.” Eddie said with a broken voice.

“Shh, hey…I will never leave you.” Buck said softly.

“I’m sorry, I just —” Eddie trailed off.

“It's okay Eddie.” Buck said, “I promise, I will never leave you.” he said and pulled out his pinkie finger, “Pinkie promise.”

Eddie looked at him and connected their pinkie fingers, “I promise I will never leave you too.”

They hugged and cuddled for half an hour, before they heard Eddie's stomach growling.

“Okay I think I should make something to eat.” Buck said and chuckled.

“Mhm, but you promised not to leave me.” Eddie teased.

He was startled when Buck picked him up.

“What? I won't leave you when I take you with me.” he said teasingly as he carried him downstairs.

Eddie hummed, “I bet you like it.” he said quietly.

“Like what?”

“Carrying me everywhere.” Eddie said and chuckled. 

“I don’t mind, but you seem to be enjoying this.” Buck teased, and placed Eddie on a chair next to the kitchen island.

“Mhm hey, I—it’s just comforting and impressive, you are carrying me around like I weigh nothing.” Eddie said with a smirk.

“I don’t know, I—”  It’s like I’m holding close to a part of me I lost and I’m feeling whole again. “ —It’s cute and I enjoy the company.” Buck said with a fake chuckle.

Eddie noticed the change in Buck’s scent, but refrained from asking him.

Buck put a bowl with cereal and milk and Eddie started eating immediately. Buck chuckled and started eating from his bowl.

After they finished breakfast, Buck was putting the bowls to the sink, when he heard knocking. Eddie tensed slightly, not ready for visitors. Buck went to the door and obtained a bag with groceries he ordered yesterday. Walking back to the kitchen with the bag, “I heard you like tamales, would you like to show me how it’s made?” Buck said with a smile.

Eddie looked at him in awe, “I helped Abuela a few times, I guess we could try.” he said with a wide smile.

“Let's get started.” Buck said with a wide smile.

—-

After a lot of giggling and laughing, they finished making it.

“Mhm, It looks delicious.” Buck said happily.

“It's almost as good as Abuela’s.” Eddie said with a frown.

“I'm sure it will taste amazing.” Buck said softly with a smile.

Eddie smiled and they both sat down to eat.

“Mhm, now I get why this is your favorite food.” Buck said grinning.

“I love food made with love.” Eddie said shyly.

“I can feel love in every bite.” Buck said with a soft smile.

Eddie smiled at him and blushed.

They finished their meals with smiles on their faces. 

“Maddie would love to meet you. Would you mind if she comes by tomorrow?” 

“Mhm so the tamales were just a bribe?” Eddie teased, “Smart move.”

“Did it work?” Buck said with a smirk.

“Mhm, I guess it did. I would like to meet her too.” Eddie said shyly.

“I’m glad to hear that.” Buck said with a smile, "I wouldn't want to force you into anything.”

“I know Buck.” 

“So how about tomorrow?” Buck asked hesitantly.

Eddie nodded, “Sure.” he said with a smile.

Both of them started to clean the kitchen, Buck was putting the dishes to the dishwasher, and Eddie cleaned the kitchen island and threw away trash to the bin.

“Did you think about what you would like to do?” Buck asked.

“I don’t know, I haven't been to a cinema in a while.” Eddie said shyly.

“Ehm, okay, we can do that, but I meant to ask what job would you like to do?”

“Job? Omegas can have jobs?” Eddie asked with a surprised look towards Buck.

“Um, of course. But you don’t have to —” Buck got cut off by Eddie, “No I want to, I just, my parents always told me that Omegas are only for one thing.” he said with a frown.

Buck came close and pulled him into a hug, “They are wrong, you can do anything. I can help you find a job.” 

“Thank you Buck.”

“And I would like to train you, if you would like.” 

“Train what? Like in the gym?”

“We can do that too, I would like to teach you some self defense.” Buck said and tightened the grip on Eddie.

“Self defense?” Eddie said, a little confused.

“I can’t protect you all the time and me hovering over you wouldn’t be enjoyable for you.” Buck said and cleared his throat, “ I want to give you independence, I don’t want you to ever feel powerless again.” he said sternly.

“Okay Buck I would like that, but you don’t have to prepare me for leaving, I’m not leaving anywhere.” Eddie looked up at Buck, “You are the only person who always treats me like a human, like an equal, why would I want to leave someone so kind and thoughtful.”

“I don’t know…I just want you to be safe Eddie.”Buck said and stroked Eddie’s back.

“Then let’s start with the self defense lessons.” Eddie smirked at him.

“Like right now?”

“Um, why not?”

“Uh okay, go change…and take some clothes to change into at the gym.” Buck said with a smile.

Eddie nodded and squeezed Buck one last time before breaking the hug and leaving upstairs.

He got upstairs and remembered one small detail.

“Um, I don’t have shoes.” Eddie shouted from the loft.

“Oh.” Buck said, “We will buy some on the way then.” he added.

Chapter Text

Buck’s POV

After a short stop at the mall, Eddie was a proud owner of two new pairs of shoes.

They left the locker room and approached the mat. Buck showed Eddie a few moves and they practiced them.

“Never give up an advantage when you’re defending yourself.” Buck said firmly, “ Use your full bodyweight to the moves…and don’t be afraid to run…if you feel overwhelmed.” he huffed.

Eddie nodded and put full force into the block and dodged Buck’s hand as he showed him before.

“Use their force against them just like this.” Buck said and smiled.

After around an hour of practice and a few small breaks, they called it a day.

They both took a shower at the gym to get rid of all the sweat. 

They were too tired to sing along in the car, Eddie just hummed to the songs, tiredly sunk in the passenger seat. Buck shot glances at him with a proud smile, Eddie was learning quickly and put everything into it. Eddie fell asleep in the passenger seat a few minutes before they arrived at the apartment building.

Buck took their bags and put them on his back, then he went and unbuckled Eddie’s seatbelt. He carefully took Eddie to his arms, putting Eddie’s hands around his neck and legs around his hips. Buck closed the car doors and locked the car. He then proceeded to carry him to the apartment, while Eddie murmured something into his shoulder.

After he unlocked the doors to the apartment, he kicked them closed behind him and went upstairs to put Eddie to bed. 

Buck laid Eddie on the bed and put the bags down. Subsequently he pulled Eddie’s shoes off and took off Eddie's shorts leaving him in boxers. Eddie hummed and turned over. Buck put a blanket over him and went downstairs. He began to  prepare some sandwiches for dinner, while leaving Eddie to rest.

As Buck was almost finished making dinner, Eddie came from upstairs, with messy hair, half asleep, and only in T-shirt and boxers.

Keep it together Evan, It’s only the cutest thing you have ever seen. Buck thought to himself.

“I’m hungry Buck.” Eddie said and looked at Buck.

Fuck, get your shit together, you are bestfriends, thats enough. Buck shook his head.

“Of course cutie, I’m almost done making sandwiches.” Buck teasingly said, stunned by his own words.

“Thank you, Buck.” Eddie said with a smile.

Buck smiled and put the plate with sandwiches in front of Eddie. And they ate in comfortable silence. 

After inhaling both sandwiches like Eddie’s life depended on it, “Can we watch that movie we saved to watch later?” Eddie said and looked at Buck with puppy eyes.

I’m gonna combust at this rate. Cuteness overload will be the end of me. 

Buck was brought back by Eddie’s dramatic coughing.

And Buck ignored the cute face Eddie was making and replied, “Sure Eds.” practically emotionless.

—

Eddie’s POV

Eddie looked him in the eyes, happiness turned slowly to confusion. He tried to smell Buck’s scent but it was normal , plain vanilla, almost like he felt nothing.

Eddie went to brush his teeth. 

Did I do something wrong? I thought he would be happy. That I make him happy. 

Maybe it’s time to finally realize WE ARE JUST FRIENDS.

Eddie stopped his thoughts and finished brushing his teeth.

Eddie went upstairs, and turned on the tv. Meanwhile Buck went to brush his teeth.

By the time Eddie found the film on Netflix, he heard Buck coming upstairs.

Eddie put the remote on the bed and moved more to his side of the bed. Buck approached his side of the bed and laid down. 

Few moments of awkward silence, broken by Eddie, “You sure you wanna watch it?” he said, without emotion.

Buck looked at him, “Yeah I don’t mind.”

Eddie was feeling like something was cracking inside. Just a few words but Eddie was just so confused, why Buck changed almost in an instant, did he do something wrong?

Eddie was feeling so sad all of a sudden, “ I – I will go to the bathroom, you can choose something that you would actually like.” he said and went to the bathroom.

He locked the doors and sat against them. His tears flooded his face.

No one will ever love you. You’re such a disappointment. You are not my son anymore.

Are you even friends? Who would want you as a friend?

Ramon’s voice ringing through his head.

—

Buck’s POV

Buck was confused by Eddie’s response, he wanted to watch the movie, he even said that. He was even more confused when Eddie was still not coming back from the bathroom, so he went downstairs. Eddie’s scent instantly invaded him, so bitter, so sad. 

What have I done? 

He knocked on the door, “Are you okay? Can I come in?”

“I’m fine, I’ll come back in a few minutes.” Eddie said numbly.

“May I please come in, I want to make sure you’re okay?”

“No, please leave.”

Buck felt like something just erupted in his chest shattering into pieces.

“Okay, I'm sorry.” Buck said with a broken voice, and left upstairs.

—

Eddie’s POV

Eddie felt like shit, used the rest of his strength to stand up, washed his face with water and walked out of the bathroom. He was hit with Buck’s scent, it was normal at first bat as he moved up the stairs it changed multiple times. When he saw the tv turned off and Buck asleep, he felt bad, he must have been there a long time, and Buck did what he asked him to. 

He laid down to his side, and stopped himself from going to Buck’s embrace. Turned himself away from Buck and fell asleep with a few tears coming down his face.

—

“You pathetic little bitch, you are so weak, so easy to deceive.”

“Just a stupid little omega, thought someone would actually like you, like you more than just a toy.”

“But you are nothing, you need to learn your place.” 

Eddie opened his eyes and saw Thomas with a whip. He was tied to a wall, naked.

he was about to panic, but he instead just gave up, with tears he surrendered to Thomas.

Thomas laughed, “Just like I said, you are just a little bitch, and I will show you.”

—

Buck’s POV

Buck woke up in the morning on his side of the bed, he felt numb and tired. He looked at Eddie still sleeping, he was red and sore around his eyes. It hurt to see him like this, so he rather went downstairs to prepare something for breakfast.

He prepared some sandwiches with the leftovers from yesterday, and went to the patio to call Maddie.

“Hello baby brother, you need something?” Maddie said with enthusiasm.

“Um, I don’t know, I think I did something wrong…a-and Eddie is now sad and won’t talk to me.” Buck said numbly.

“Uh okay, when did that happen?”

“Last night, I was trying to process something and afterwards he was acting weird.” As he said it he hit his head, “Oh, that must be it, I was acting weird and he probably felt bad about it.”

“Then tell him.”

“Um – I can’t.”

“Wait, is it about him?”

“I – yes, but we are just friends, and I can’t do this to him after what he went through.”

“But still, what if he feels the same?”

“I don’t want to scare him, I can’t lose him Mads.” Buck said desperately, “And you can’t ever tell him.”

“Okay, and should I come by later?”

“Yeah…that would be nice.”

—

Eddie’s POV

Eddie woke up, alone in bed. He went downstairs and headed to the bathroom, he saw Buck at the patio but he needed to clean his face like right now. He approached the wash basin and put water to his face, rubbing trying to make his crying less obvious, not particularly successful at it.  

He left the bathroom and Buck was sitting at the kitchen island, “Hi Buck.” Eddie said shyly.

“Hello, I made breakfast.” Buck said

“Um, I’m not hungry, I’ll eat later.” he said and left upstairs.

Buck went after him, “Hey, come here. What’s going on?”

“Nothing.” Eddie said immediately. 

Buck smelled the change in Eddie’s scent, “I thought we wouldn’t lie to each other.”

“Mhm, I just felt bad after yesterday, and I had a nightmare, okay? I don’t wanna burden you more than I have to.”

“You will never be a burden, I told you that already.” Buck said firmly, “And I’m sorry, I was just very tired yesterday, I won’t let that happen again.” he said with a smile

“I’m sorry…I–I thought I made you angry, but you just seemed so numb, I was confused.”

“And what about the nightmare?” 

“Um, just some Thomas nightmare stuff.” Eddie tried to joke.

Buck pulled him closer and looked him in the eyes, “And?”

“Ugh, he just kept telling me how easy it is to deceive me, and that I'm a pathetic little bitch.” Eddie paused, “I’m a stupid omega for thinking anyone would like me for more than just being their toy.” he said quietly.

Buck pulled him close, “I like you for you Eddie, you are my best friend.” he said softly.

Best friend 

“Thank you Buck.”

“And I would like you to mentally prepare to meet my sister…she will be here around three pm.”

“Mhm okay.” Eddie muttered.

“Don’t worry, she’s nice but can be nosy.” Buck added.

“Okay, so she’s just like you?” he teased.

“Well, she is my sister.” Buck giggled.

Eddie chuckled, broke the hug and went to lay in bed. Buck went downstairs to eat breakfast.

Eddie picked up his phone and looked through the pictures he took at the beach, a few he took at the gym, with a smile on his face. He looked through Spotify and added Buck’s playlist. After around half an hour his belly growled, so he stood up from the bed and went downstairs.

“Mhm, it’s on the kitchen island under the plastic bowl.” Buck called at him from the couch.

“So you read minds now, hm?” Eddie teased.

“I don’t need to, you are predictable.” Buck teased back as he came to the kitchen island.

“Am I supposed to take that personally?” Eddie chuckled.

“I think you should eat first.” Buck replied, as he looked into Eddie’s eyes as he tilted his head.

Eddie sat down to eat his sandwich while making faces at Buck. Buck chuckled and brought him orange juice from the fridge.

“Thank you Buck.” Eddie grumbled as he was eating the sandwich.

“You’re welcome, Eds.” Buck replied with a smile and sat across from him.

“Would you send me a few of the pictures you took at the beach, please?” Buck asked hesitantly.

“Sure Buck, we can look at them after I brush my teeth.” Eddie suggested as he was finishing the sandwich.

“Okay sure, I would like to see your picture taking skills.” Buck replied with a wide smile.

Eddie hummed and inhaled the rest of the sandwich. Buck looked at him in disbelief and chuckled.

Chapter Text

Eddie’s POV

After Eddie brushed his teeth, he went upstairs and changed to new clothes. When he was done he went downstairs with his phone, and joined Buck on the couch. 

“I mean I can just send you all of them.” Eddie suggested.

“Yeah I would like that, but we can still look at them, you can stream them on the tv.” Buck responded.

“Um sure.” Eddie agreed and gave his phone to Buck, “I just have no clue how.” he chuckled. 

“Don’t worry, I will show you, may I?” Buck asked.

“I literally gave you the phone.” he grumbled, casting a glance at him.

“Um okay, I just wanted to be sure, no need to bite my head off.” Buck teased and blew raspberries at him.

“Very adult behavior, do you know the pin?” he asked teasingly.

“You have the same as me, copycat.” Buck teased and looked at him.

“Ugh, I just didn't want to memorize a new one.” Eddie whined.

Buck laughed and unlocked the phone with a smile as he stared at the wallpaper for a moment.

Eddie turned his eyes to the tv as it started showing the pictures.

Buck turned back to Eddie and gave him his phone, “Just scroll, It will show what’s on your phone.” Buck explained. 

“Okay, I get it.” Eddie responded, “Smartass.” he whispered.

“Ehm, what now? I didn’t hear you?” Buck teased.

“Mhm, nothing.” Eddie chuckled.

“You sure?” Buck asked, approaching his hips with his hands, “I would like to know.”

“I didn’t say anything!” Eddie groaned and tried to move away, “What are you doing.” he chuckled.

“Nothing, just asking if I heard right.” Buck teased, pulling Eddie close and tickling him.

“Hey—hey, stop—not—fair!” Eddie blurted out, laughing so hard he could barely breathe.

Buck stopped, “So tell me what did you say?” he asked with a grin.

“Are you serious?” Eddie responded after catching his breath.

Buck smirked and was moving his hands back, “No please, I can’t breathe.” Eddie mutered.

Buck pulled him into a hug instead, “Tell me then.” Buck insisted.

“Ugh, fine, I said you are a smartass.” Eddie groaned and rolled his eyes.

Buck chuckled, “Let’s look at the pictures.” he suggested.

Eddie hummed, still catching his breath.

They’ve gone through all the pictures, with a smile the whole time.

“Mhm, what would you like for lunch?” Buck asked, turning off the picture sharing.

“I don’t know, what would you like?” Eddie asked back.

Buck gazed at him, “Um have you ever had sushi?” he asked curiously.

“I don’t think so.” Eddie responded.

“And would you like to try?”

“Yeah, why not.” Eddie answered with a smile.

“Okay let’s pick some.” Buck suggested.

They picked multiple different sushi types to try them all and turned on some reality show on tv.

Eddie lay against Buck on the couch, listening to Buck as he commented on what’s happening on the screen. He likes to listen to Buck talking about anything, it’s just so calming and his cute face expressions will be the death of him. 

Before long the delivery guy knocked on the door and Buck went to answer.

Buck brought the food to the coffee table, and sat back next to Eddie.

Eddie was a little hesitant at first, but after the first bite he was pleased, “It’s soo good.” he blurted out. 

“I’m happy you like it.” Buck said with a smile.

Eddie just hummed in response with a full mouth.

A wide smile spread on Buck’s face as he watched Eddie try all the different variants of sushi in front of them. Eddie took a picture of the sushi before they started eating and Buck is so happy to see him so relaxed and happy. They ate the sushi in silence while watching a reality show, neither was paying much attention to it, Buck was more focused on watching Eddie happily munching the food. Eddie was very much focused on the different flavors and tastes of the different types. It's something so new, his parents never ordered in or went to restaurants with him. He grew up with mostly Mexican food, he loves it but now he wonders what he was missing out on.

Buck noticed a change in Eddie’s scent and a frown that appeared on his face.

“What’s up Eds, Is everything alright?” Buck asked hesitantly.

“Um, It’s nothing.” Eddie blurted out.

“You sure? You can talk to me about anything and everything.” Buck replied softly.

“I know, um it’s just that—It’s stupid.” Eddie stuttered, “I just wondered about what else have I been missing out on, my parents never let me do almost anything, not just… trying new food, but I never got to do sports I wanted, or paint, almost anything I wanted to try wasn’t… manly enough, so I just got to play baseball like my dad wanted and that was it.”he murmured.

Buck’s heart clenched in his chest as he heard Eddie’s words. He hates Eddie’s parents more day by day. 

“And what about friends from school?” Buck asked hesitantly.

“Mhm, I mean I made friends, but my parents didn’t let me hangout with them much. I had to sneak out to hangout with them and after my parents found out It was like I was in jail. I didn’t see that at that time, but I got used to it. I sneaked out only once after that a few months before I was… sold, I don’t think they knew.”

Buck was struggling to hold his composure, he would make them suffer for what they had done to Eddie.

“I’m sorry you had to endure that, but now you can do anything you want. We can do anything you want tomorrow… we can buy paint and canvas, we can go out and take photos, try something new, anything okay, your choice. Not just for tomorrow, If you would like to do something, I’ll do my best to help you with it.” Buck offered softly.

Eddie almost jumped at him and hugged him tight, “Thank you Buck.” Eddie whispered.

“Always Eds.” Buck whispered and stroked Eddie’s head.

—

Buck's POV

They stayed like that for some time, Eddie buried to Bucks neck and holding him tightly. Buck felt so calm and at peace holding him close, resting his chin on top of Eddie’s head. Buck is overwhelmed by everything, Eddie holding him close in tight grip. So when he takes a deep breath and Eddie’s sweet honey scent invades his nose, tears start to build up. Eddie takes deep breaths in the crook of his neck and that is what does it for him, Tears roll down his face, but he doesn’t clean his face, he continues to stroke Eddie’s back, wanting to keep this moment just for a little longer.

Eddie pulled slightly away from him as he felt his hair get wet, “Is everything okay Buck?” he asked with a worried frown.

“Um, everything is great Eds, don’t worry I just—I’m not used to feeling this— happy.”Buck blurted out.

Eddie noded and wiped Buck’s tears, dropping back to the crook of Buck’s neck.

“I'm happy you saved me.” he whispered softly and tightened his grip on Buck.

They stayed like this for a while longer, holding each other in tight embrace, too scared to let go.

It felt so right to hold Eddie close. They were stuck in their buble, in their moment, when they heard knocking on the main door, bursting their perfect peaceful moment.

Buck stood up with Eddie in his arms, made a few steps towards the door, only to remember he got something precious in his Mahold— or rather someone precious. He quickly walked back to the couch and gently put Eddie down, he quickly kissed Eddie’s forehead and went to the door.

Buck quickly opened the door, and saw Maddie with keys in her hand.

“I was getting worried, I almost let myself in.” Maddie hissed as she put her keys back to her purse.

“Sorry I— never mind, come in.” Buck replied and stepped to the side to let Maddie in.

Maddie dismissed the reply as she didn’t want to make her brother more uncomfortable.

“Okay, so I brought my homemade cookies as a bribe.” Maddie smirked and walked inside the apartment.

Eddie walked slowly towards them, “Hi.” he murmured shyly.

“Hello Eddie.” Maddie greeted softly and opened her arms for a hug.

Eddie hesitated for a moment before he accepted the hug. He seemed to trust Buck. He pulled away from the hug first and moved next to Buck. 

As Eddie looked to the ground for a moment, Maddie shot a teasing look at Buck as Eddie stood very close to him. Buck rolled his eyes and offered to take a seat at the kitchen island.

All three of them sat down, Eddie sat down next to Buck and Maddie opposite to them.

“Soo, is my brother taking good care of you?” Maddie asked softly. 

“Um… yeah, he is very nice.” Eddie responded hesitantly, “He even bought me a few things.” He continued and blushed slightly.

Maddie smiled and looked at Buck, “That’s nice to hear.” Maddie turned back to Eddie, “I hope he’s feeding you well too.”

“Yeah, we got sushi for lunch today, I tried it for the first time and it was delicious.” Eddie responded more confidently this time.

“I’m glad you got everything you need.” Maddie smiled, “So I was thinking if you would like to come to work with me, to see if you would like it.”

Eddie was curious about the job of a dispatcher so he nodded, “I would like that.” he answered with a smile.

“Great, I'll check with Sue and let you know when I can take you for a tour.” Maddie said with a smile.

“Don't worry my sister will take good care of you.” Buck whispered loud enough for both of them to hear. 

“Yeah, I don't bite. Well only if someone wants to be mean to my family that is. Which now includes you Eddie.” Maddie reassured with a smile.

Eddie blushed slightly, “You don’t even know me yet.” he stated and chuckled slightly.

“Well, you are my brother's family now. So naturally you are my family as well.” Maddie said softly.

Eddie looked at both siblings and nodded with a smile.

Buck smiled and turned towards Eddie, “That is if you are not already tired of me.” Buck teased with a smirk.

“How could I be, you are the first person who cared this much about me.” Eddie responded seriously and looked shyly down to his lap.

Maddie frowned, and looked at Buck. “Well… now both of you have someone… each other.” she smiled.

Buck turned to Eddie, and smiled. Eddie's words went straight to his heart, growing bigger while shattering moments later. He put his hand on Eddie’s shoulder.

“And I’ll make sure you know you deserve all the care, you deserve to be happy.” Buck insisted confidently and reached to squeeze Eddie’s shoulder.

Eddie looked into his eyes intently. Buck was getting lost in the brown chocolate eyes that looked at him like he hung the moon. A strange heat took place in his stomach.

Maddie was smiling as she witnessed the staring contest and looked at her phone.

“Oh, sorry guys but I need to go, Chimney is coming to my place and help me with my security system.” Maddie shared and stood up from her chair, “It was nice meeting you Eddie, I suggest you try some of the cookies I brought before my brother eats them all.” she smirked, went around the kitchen island and hugged Eddie briefly.

“Haha, you are funny.” Buck mocked, “Enjoy your date sis.” he teased.

“It’s not a date.” she hissed, “We are just friends.” she insisted.

“ Right .” Buck continued and rolled his eyes, “I think you should go, so you aren’t late for your date .” he smirked.

Maddie rolled her eyes and went towards the door, said her goodbyes and walked out of the door.

Buck turned back to Eddie, “So how are you feeling?” Buck asked softly.

“Um, I think it was fine, I think she likes me.” Eddie smirked.

“Yeah, it almost looks like she likes you more than me now.” Buck teased, “It’s the tour at the dispatch for sure.” he continued the teasing and smirked at Eddie.

“Well, I hope you can take second place then.” Eddie teased back.

“I think I can survive that, I mean I can’t blame her, it's the same for me.” Buck responded.

“So you like me more than your sister?” Eddie smirked.

“Well that depends on how many cuddles you’ll give me.” Buck teased

“Oh… so you only want me for cuddles?” Eddie teased back.

“Oops you got me.” Buck smirked and rolled his eyes, “I hope you know how special you are… and I definitely didn’t save you just to get cuddles.” Buck continued more seriously now.

Eddie blushed slightly, “Well I like our cuddles too don’t worry.”

They both moved back to the couch with the cookies Maddie brought them and Buck turned on the TV. They looked through multiple channels but nothing caught their eye.

Buck was about to open Netflix, when Eddie pleaded that they watch a movie upstairs. Buck didn’t need any more convincing as he was in a lazy mood after they devoured all the sushi before.

Eddie then went upstairs and jumped under the covers. Buck followed him and soon they were both in bed and looking through the movies to watch. After some consideration they settled on Scary Movie, as they can then watch all the sequels and stay in bed till evening. 

“I have never seen a horror movie before, my parents wanted me to focus on something more useful than watching stupid movies.” Eddie whispered with a frown.

“Oh, don’t worry I’m right here.” Buck smirked and moved closer to Eddie, “Besides this is more of a parody of horror movies than horror movie itself so don't worry.” he reassured Eddie.

Eddie shuffled closer to Buck and rested his head on Buck’s shoulder. Buck put his arm around Eddie and made sure they were both covered by the duvet. The movie was starting and they were in a comfortable embrace, everything felt so right. Eddie felt whole as he found someone who cares. Buck, so full of love to give, found someone who won’t leave him behind… hopefully.

The second movie ended and Buck was getting out of bed.

“Where are you going?” Eddie murmured as he was trying to hold onto Buck.

“Um, I think we will need something for dinner.” Buck reasoned with a smirk, “What, are you missing me already?” he teased.

“I’m not hungry.” Eddie whined.

“Well not right now but what about an hour or two  from now hmm?” Buck smirked and tilted his head to the side, “You can help me cook you know, you can be clingy all you want then.” he teased.

“Mhm okay, that’s fair.” Eddie smirked and got out of the bed. 

Buck waited for Eddie to get out of bed, Eddie then jumped at him and refused to let go.

Buck sighed, “At least let me pick you up properly.” he insisted.

Eddie then let go and let Buck pick him up properly, resting his arms around Buck’s neck and his legs around Buck’s hips. Buck slowly descended the stairs and walked to the kitchen. He stopped at the kitchen island and placed Eddie to sit there.

“Wait for me here, I will take a look at what we have.” Buck shared and went to look into the fridge. 

After a quick look he was wondering what they could possibly make with an almost empty fridge.

After inspecting all the goods, Buck figured that mac and cheese would be the best option… the only option.

“Would you mind mac and cheese?” Buck asked as he closed the fridge and turned back to Eddie.

“Yeah, that’s fine. Can I help you with it?” Eddie responded with a smile.

“You sure can.” Buck cheered and grabbed Eddie to help him down from the kitchen island. 

—

Eddie's POV

The meal was done and looked great. Eddie was setting the table and Buck took some drinks out of the fridge. And finally serve the mac and cheese.

They were about to sit to eat when Eddie’s phone rang upstairs. Eddie jogged there, saw ‘Athena’ on the screen and quickly picked up.

“Hello, Athena?” Eddie said hesitantly.

“Hi sweetheart, can I talk to you?”

“Of course.”

“Okay, we found some of your documents at the house you were kept at, possibly all of them, I’ll stop by tomorrow to give them to you. It took some time due to the search and investigation of the house.

“Oh okay that’s good, thank you.”

“That’s the least I can do sweetheart. I’ll see you guys tomorrow then, I’ll check with Buck.”

“Okay, Bye Athena”

“Bye Eddie.”

Eddie hung up and went back downstairs. He sat down back to his chair across Buck. Buck waited with the food for him. Eddie appreciated the gesture, and they started eating together.

“Athena called, she will come by tomorrow to give us my documents they found at Thomas's house.” Eddie said with a frown.

“That’s good news, even If we will get you new ones, a birth certificate would be nice to have.” Buck responded with a smile

Eddie hummed and continued eating.

Buck didn’t want Eddie to spiral again at the mention of Thomas, so he tried to sooth him a bit.

“I hope you know I won’t let anyone hurt you.” Buck tried to reassure. “And I don’t want you to feel powerless so if there is anything I can do to make sure you feel safer, just name it.”

Buck’s reassurance snapped him from thinking. Eddie was slowly getting lost in the memories he wanted to forget, and Buck was the light shining through the dark clouds.

“I know Buck, thank you.” Eddie murmured softly. 

Buck was pleased to see Eddie blushing rather than sad. They continued to eat their food in comfortable silence.

Buck picked up the dirty dishes afterwards and put them in the dishwasher. Eddie was in a slightly better mood then after the call from Athena so he was about to test the waters.

“So if I asked you to carry me back to bed, coz I would feel safer?” Eddie teased.

“Oh so that’s how you gonna abuse my promise hm?” Buck teased back.

Eddie chuckled and shyly looked down.

“Don’t worry, I have a soft spot for you.” Buck whispered softly as he carefully picked Eddie up.

Eddie hummed and let Buck pick him up. Buck walked slowly upstairs and gently put Eddie on bed and pulled the duvet over him. Buck joined him to his side of the bed. In a heartbeat Eddie was glued to his side. Buck smiled as he felt Eddie’s hand on his chest. They continued watching the next Scary movie in silence, only broken by their laughter. 

After finishing the fourth movie they were getting sleepy, so they took turns in the bathroom to shower and brush their teeth. Eddie went first, Buck went afterwards.

Eddie felt movement next to him, so he snuggled closer, dropping his head on Buck’s chest. Buck put his arm around Eddie’s back and stroked him gently before they both drifted to sleep.

Chapter Text

Buck's POV

Buck woke up to a beautiful sight, Eddie snuggled close to him with his back against Buck’s chest. Buck took in the sight so he could etch it into his memory. He wished he could wake up like this every day. In a way he can, but what about when they find a new place with more bedrooms. He won’t let this thought ruin this moment. After a few minutes of bathing at this moment, he couldn’t hold back any longer and planted a kiss on top of Eddie’s head. Eddie was sleeping like nothing happened and Buck went back to admiring the view.

—

Eddie's POV

Where am I?  

Eddie was confused, standing near a large familiar tree. He looked around, trying to figure out where he was. 

“Eddito, come help me with lunch please.” Familiar voice called from afar.

Abuela?

“I’m coming.” Eddie shouted back and ran towards the voice.

A house appeared before him, he immediately recognised it. Abuela’s house. He stepped inside but there was no one.

“My dear Eddito, I’m so sorry I couldn’t protect you.” Abuela’s voice, filled with sadness, ringed through the house.

Eddie was searching the house to find her. 

“You won’t find me here, I’m not here cariño.” 

Eddie ran outside and dropped to the ground. “Te echo mucho de menos abuela.” he murmured with tears flooding his face.

(I miss you so much abuela.)

“I know mi nieto, I’m so sorry I couldn’t stop them and let them take you away.” her voice was full of pain and sadness. 

Eddie looked up to the sky as the sun was shining brighter. He closed his eyes, the light caressed his cheeks and kissed the top of his head.

“He found you.” she cried in relief.

Eddie was embraced by the light, which slowly changed to resemble a human body. Eddie tried to open his eyes, but all he saw was pure light.

He found you.

He found you.

You found him.

He found me.

—

Buck’s POV

Buck was still watching Eddie peacefully asleep. Buck instantly frowned as he saw a tear slowly run across Eddie’s cheek while still asleep, with the same peaceful expression on his face. Buck ran his hand to wipe the tear softly without thinking. Eddie murmured something and grabbed Buck’s hand to keep it on his face. Buck smiled and used his thumb to draw circles on Eddie’s cheek.

Buck was in awe, the view turned even more beautiful. He could watch Eddie sleep like this for eternity, so peaceful and cute. After what felt like hours, Eddie let go of Buck’s hand, turned around and buried his face in Buck's chest. 

“You found me.” Eddie murmured to Buck’s chest. 

“Shh, everything is fine.” Buck tried to reassure.

“I know, because you found me.” Eddie murmured and looked up to meet Buck’s eyes.

“And I’m glad I did.” Buck whispered softly, knowing he would need to ask for context later.

Eddie hummed and buried his head back.

“So did you think about what you wanna do today, apart from Athena’s visit in the afternoon?” Buck asked while stroking Eddie’s back.

“I was thinking we could go training in self defense again. But I wouldn’t mind staying in bed all day.” he teased.

“Hmm, we can go to the gym and then we can buy you some more clothes.” Buck replied.

“More clothes? For what? I have enough clothes.” Eddie groaned. 

“You need more, you have the bare minimum amount. And you need other things too.”

“Like what?” Eddie murmured and dramatically blew air to Buck’s chest.

Buck chuckled, “Well, you need hygiene products like body wash or deodorant.”

“So I smell bad?” Eddie teased and poked Buck’s hip, “ Besides I like your body wash.”

Buck grabbed Eddie and turned on his back, putting Eddie to lie on top of him. 

“Then we can buy more of our body wash then. But that doesn’t mean you can just attack me like that. Not without consequences that is.” Buck replied and grabbed Eddie’s sides.

Eddie blushed slightly and moved his hands to Buck’s sides.

“Looks like we are even.” he smirked.

“Fine, I surrender.” Buck chuckled and put his hands in the air before putting them on Eddie’s back and stroking it.

Eddie chuckled and tickled Buck on his sides. Buck tensed and growled into laughter.

“Oh, so that’s how it is.” Buck chuckled, grabbed Eddie by hips and tickled him back.

Eddie laughed hysterically. Buck smirked and waited for Eddie to catch a breath.

“Hey, you—you told me to never give up an advantage.” Eddie blurted out.

“Well, sometimes an advantage is not enough.” Buck pointed out with a smirk.

Eddie lied down on Buck and threw the duvet over them, “Mhm, now I need a cuddle break.” Eddie mumbled under cover.

“Cuddle break? We should get up soon, we got a lot of plans today, Cuddle Monster ” Buck teased.

Eddie groaned dramatically and dropped his head to Buck’s chest, “Just ten minutes, please.” Eddie begged.

“Fine, but just because you are a cute Cuddle Monster.” Buck teased and stroked Eddie’s back under the covers. 

Buck caught a glimpse of Eddie's blushing face before he hid under the covers . Few moments later he pulled the blanket down and rested his head on Buck’s chest.

—

Eddie’s POV

Ten minutes passed and Eddie was pretending to be asleep. Buck was not buying it though. So after multiple attempts to wake him up, he got an idea. Eddie wasn't about to give up easily, but Buck was determined to wake him up. 

“This is your final warning, I will show no mercy after this.” Buck warned, and waited for a moment, “Fine, you made your decision.” Buck spoke up dramatically.

Buck slowly got up with Eddie in his arms and walked away from the bed. Eddie was confused about where they were going, but too scared to open his eyes, that would blow his cover.

Buck suddenly stopped, Eddie noticed Buck used only one hand to hold him. He was confused, but then it hit him.

“Wait, stop!” Eddie shouted, but a moment too late as Buck turned the water on.

“Oh, so you weren’t asleep?” Buck smirked, and turned the water off.

“That’s not fair now I’m drenched.” Eddie hissed, but laughing afterwards.

“Well now you are awake, and happy?” Buck chuckled. 

“I mean you are drenched too… it’s kinda funny.” Eddie teased.

Buck smirked and turned the water back on, still holding Eddie.

“Hey! I can’t escape.” Eddie chuckled, “ Buck , please, I’m sorry.” he begged, still chuckling.

Buck turned the water off, took a bath towel and pulled it around Eddie. Buck placed Eddie on the ground and went to grab a towel for himself.

Eddie dried himself in the shower and put the towel around his waist. Buck was already in sweatpants and handing him clothes to change into.

Eddie caught a glimpse of Buck’s Exposed upper body. He was then thinking about the image in his head the whole time he was getting dressed.

Buck applied scent blocker on Eddie’s neck and himself. It’s preferred to use them in the gym and they don’t want to use the pills this time, pills would block the scent for the whole day.

—

They arrived at the gym around nine am. The gym was practically empty, only for a few people scattered around. Both of them changed into gym clothes and moved to the ring.

After sparring for about an hour, Buck suggested training with some of the machines.

Eddie trained his arms this time. 

It was close to twelve o’clock when they were in lockers taking a shower. Eddie was exhausted and hungry. Before they left, they removed their scent blockers.

After a short drive they arrived at a mall. Not long after, they ate a pizza. Eddie inhaled the pizza like his life depended on it.

Clothes shopping went surprisingly well, Eddie got more shirts, socks, underwear and more.

“I assure you that you don’t need to care about the cost of the clothes.” Buck insisted.

“Um, so you are like a secret millionaire or what?” Eddie chuckled. 

Buck sighed and turned back to him, “Well, in a way kinda.” he mumbled.

Eddie turned his gaze to meet Buck’s eyes and nodded, to keep going.

“My parents didn’t care much about me when I was a kid, they acted like I wasn’t even there.” Buck said and took a deep breath, “ They tried to make up for it by expensive presents, but money can’t buy happiness.” Buck continued.

“I’m so sorry Buck.” Eddie whispered as he hugged Buck.

Buck smiled, “ When I left the house around eighteen, Maddie gave me a jeep and some money to start over.” 

Eddie pulled away from the hug just to look up at Buck.

“I traveled a lot, tried different jobs and never looked back. I was alone, until I entered the 118. And after my parents found out I work as a firefighter, they told me about my trust fund, most likely to steer me away from the job, by giving me money. I haven’t used any of that money… until now.”

“Oh, so you are spoiling me with your parents' money.” Eddie tried to lighten up the mood.

Buck chuckled, “ I mean, it’s my money now.” Buck smirked. 

Eddie smirked, “Okay but that still doesn’t mean you have to spend this much for me.”

“Eds, the money for your clothes will not make a dent in my bank account.” Buck said barely loud enough and looked away, “Ew, I sound like such a snob.”

Eddie chuckled, “Well technically…” he smirked.

Buck turned back to him, “Choose your words carefully, or we will go buy you a car tomorrow.” he smirked.

“Um, is that supposed to be a threat or promise?” Eddie chuckled.

Buck rolled his eyes, “Let’s pay for the clothes and head home.”

—

Buck was about to start the car when he saw Eddie’s face, deep in thought.

“What are you thinking about?” Buck turned to him with a smile.

“What? Um, just thinking about the dream I had.” Eddie replied honestly.

“What was it about? It wasn’t a nightmare I suppose, you were sleeping peacefully when I woke up.” Buck asked.

“You were watching me sleep?” Eddie teased with a smirk.

Buck blushed, “Um maybe? You were cute and I didn’t want to wake you up.” Buck tried to deflect.

“Uh huh.” Eddie smirked, “It was about my Abuela. She was talking to me, apologizing for not protecting me.” Eddie continued.

Buck waited for Eddie to continue.

“She was always nice to me, maybe the only one in my family not counting my sisters. So I was confused as to why she would apologize, my parents absolutely made sure she wouldn’t know about me leaving.” Eddie explained.

Buck frowned slightly, “She just misses you so much. She always wanted to protect you, and she thought she failed.” Buck frowned.

“But she didn’t do anything.” Eddie frowned.

“That can sometimes feel even worse.” Buck replied frowning, “What would you say to enchiladas for dinner?” Buck offered.

“Yeah, thank you Buck.” Eddie smiled.

“Just gonna make a quick stop for groceries then.” Buck said and started the jeep.

—

“Fine, do you know the ingredients needed?” Buck asked.

“Of course, I helped Abuela so many times.” Eddie cheered, “I’ll go find the spices.” Eddie said and ran off to find them.

Buck’s face broke into a wide smile, “Wait Eddie!” Buck shouted, but Eddie clearly didn’t hear him.

“I’m sorry, did you say Eddie?” said a voice behind Buck.

Buck turned around to face a nice older lady, “I’m so sorry, I didn’t mean to yell ma'am. I was calling Eddie to wait for me.” Buck explained and scratched the back of his neck.

“No don’t worry, I just—my grandson’s name is Eddie and I haven’t seen him for a while.” she replied.

Gears in Buck’s brain were turning.

“May I ask you something?” Buck said hesitantly.

“Of course, young man.” she replied politely.

“Is your grandson’s name Edmundo Diaz?”

Her eyes went wide, “ Yes, that is his name. Do you know him?” she said softly, with sadness resonating in her voice.

Buck was about to cry, “Would you wait with me? He should come back any time now with some spices.” Buck said softly and looked towards the isle where Eddie disappeared moments earlier.

“Hey Buck I found just the ones…” Eddie trailed off, “Abuela?” Eddie said, his voice breaking.

“Eddito.” 

Buck stood next to them as they hugged for a good few minutes, in awe as love radiated from them. Carefully took the spices Eddie dropped to the ground and put to their shopping cart.

Eddie broke the hug and wiped a tear from his face, “What are you doing here?” he said, his voice shaking.

“I couldn't stay in El Paso… not after what they did to you.” she responded softly.

Eddie frowned. Buck walked to him and hugged him from behind. 

“And who is this?” she asked and looked at Buck with a warm smile.

Buck looked down at Eddie.

“T-this is Buck, he… saved me.” Eddie smiled and looked up to meet Buck’s gaze.

Abuela smiled at them.

“Um, would you like to join us for dinner? I think you have a lot to talk about.” Buck offered, “But I don’t guarantee my enchiladas will be as good as yours I'm afraid.” he chuckled.

“I would love that.” she replied wholeheartedly.

After exchanging phone numbers, they continued shopping together.

At the cash register, Buck paid for both theirs and Abuela's groceries.

Abuela thanked him politely.

Both walked with Abuela to her car and said their goodbyes.

Eddie was beaming as he sat down in the passenger seat. Buck was happy to see him like this, but deep down a little afraid.

He knows he has no right to feel this way, Eddie can do whatever he wants… but he doesn’t need him anymore.

Buck shoved these thoughts away, he will deal with it later. He started the car to head home.

—

Both of them stumbled inside the apartment with the bags of groceries and their gym duffle bags.

Buck groaned, “We will look at some house listings and find something bigger.” he muttered and frowned.

“What?” Eddie asked.

“Nothing.” Buck lied.

“I can smell your scent Buck, tell me what’s going on.” Eddie groaned.

Buck frowned, “I just, I’m happy you found your family.”

“But that is not all of it is it?” Eddie asked, like he saw right through Buck.

“Um, just—If you want to leave now, I—I would understand.” Buck muttered and turned away.

“And why would I leave? You want me to…”

“No, I don’t.” Buck blurted out.

“So that settles it then. I’m staying with you Buck.” Eddie reassured.

“But…” 

“No But.” Eddie puts his foot down, “I feel safe with you , and I feel like I finally have someone who cares.” Eddie continues.

“Okay, I’m sorry.” Buck murmured.

“Don’t be, you did nothing wrong.” Eddie said honestly, “You care about me so much, let me care about you too.”

Buck was holding everything back, all the self doubt, not being enough for his parents, being unlovable, not being enough for people to stay. But maybe Eddie was different. Maybe Buck will be enough for Eddie.

Buck bursts into tears, “I’m sorry, I just—when you see how useless I can be, you will leave… like everyone else.” Buck murmured and dropped to the ground.

“Buck, you are the kindest person I ever met. You deserve so much better than to be left alone.” Eddie whispered softly as he hugged Buck on the floor, “I promise, I will never leave you.”

Buck hugs Eddie back, “I’m sorry.” Buck whispered.

“Shh, we got each other now. Everything will be okay.” Eddie whispered to Buck’s ear.

How could Buck not believe him, when he said it like that. Eddie wiped Buck’s face and walked him upstairs to put him to bed.

“I’ll be right back okay, just gonna put the food in the fridge.” Eddie said softly as he cupped Buck’s cheek.

Buck hummed in agreement.

—

Eddie’s POV

Eddie walked back to the kitchen and quickly put the groceries into the fridge. He was done after a few minutes, and ran up the stairs. Eddie joined Buck in bed and shuffled closer to him. When Buck noticed Eddie in bed, he immediately grabbed him and put him on top of him as he was lying on his back and Eddie now laid on his stomach. 

Eddie looked him in the eyes, Buck’s eyes glimmering with hope, but also uncertainty.

Eddie moved in and placed a kiss on Buck's forehead. 

Buck hummed in response.

“Let me take care of you too.” Eddie muttered.

Buck looked at him in awe. He was about to say something, but they were startled by the knocking on the main door. Buck left Eddie on the bed and went to the door.

Once Eddie heard Athena downstairs, he got up from bed and went downstairs.

Athena brought practically all of his documents, he put the ID and driving license to his wallet, to have something before he gets the new ones. Buck put the other papers and passport to a drawer where he got his own documents.

Athena stayed just for a quick coffee, she still needed to go back to the station.

“So, I think we should start making dinner, will you help me?” Buck asked.

“Sure.” Eddie replied with a smile.

Buck was following the recipe he found online for enchiladas, but Eddie kept interrupting and making small changes. Eddie wanted it to be perfect, and Buck was more than willing to make sure it was. 

They finished around twenty minutes before Abuela was supposed to arrive. She arrived ten minutes later anyway.

Buck stayed in the kitchen and set the table, while Eddie gave Abuela a quick tour of the apartment. 

They sat down to eat at the kitchen island and started eating. 

“It’s delicious, it tastes like home.” Abuela praised.

Buck blushed, “Thank you. Eddie made sure I followed your recipe.” he said and smiled 

Abuela turned to Eddie, “You made the right choice mi nieto.” she said with a smile.

“I know.” Eddie replied, knowing that she wasn’t talking about the recipe.

Once they finished eating, Eddie shared with Abuela what they were doing this week together. Buck skimmed off the table, put dishes to the dishwasher and started cleaning the kitchen.

Eddie’s smile fell once he started talking about the day Buck saved him, but the smile returned just as Buck came up in the story.

Abuela listened to her grandson the whole time, not interrupting, just nodding. Few tears ran down her face at the description of what Eddie went through.

“I’m so sorry, my Eddito.” Abuela said, holding back tears.

“No, my parents did this to me. You were always so nice to me, this is not your fault mi Abuela.” Eddie responded.

“You didn’t deserve that, but I’m glad you found your happiness in the end.” she said with a smile, “I’m glad you found each other.”

Abuela left soon afterwards, so she would be home before it’s dark outside. 

They cleaned the kitchen together, and put leftovers to a tupperware container.

Eddie went upstairs, took a shower, brushed his teeth and went to bed. Buck followed shortly after. They fell asleep in each other's arms.

Chapter Text

Buck’s POV

Buck woke up by some noise downstairs, he carefully extracted himself from Eddie’s embrace and put on gray shorts that were on the floor.

He wiped his eyes and moved to the stairs, slowly traversed them down, looking at his sister turned towards the open refrigerator. 

“Um, hi?” Buck said in a lower voice.

Maddie quickly turned around, “Oh, hi, sorry I didn’t mean to wake you up.” she said, startled and turned back.

“What are you doing here?” Buck asked. 

“Just brought you some groceries before my shift.” she replied and closed the fridge.

“And that’s it? Not to… check on me…on us?” he smirked.

“Noo, I just wanted to make sure you feed your boy.” she smirked and looked at Buck.

“Sure.” Buck said as he rolled his eyes.

Maddie’s smile turned wide, “And I see you sleep together.” she teased.

Buck blushed, “He… doesn’t want to sleep alone.” he stuttered and felt his cheeks heat up.

Maddie smirked, “I’m sure you sleep better too.” she smirked.

“Hey!” Buck grumbled.

“What? I’m glad to see you happy.” she said defensively.

“I am… since I met him. I just…” he trailed off.

“What?” Maddie asked, frowning.

“I don’t want to hurt him… I’m scared I’ll do something that will make him leave.” he frowned as his words turned into a whisper.

Maddie sighed, “Just make him and yourself happy Buck, trust him and trust yourself.” she replied firmly.

“I’m not leaving you, I told you yesterday, Buck!” came from upstairs.

Buck tensed, startled by Eddie.

“Sorry Eds, we didn’t mean to wake you up.” Buck said softly.

Eddie came down the stairs in just light blue shorts and white shirt.

“I don’t mind, and don’t change the subject.” Eddie grumbled.

Maddie shot a look at Eddie, she smiled, “I’ll leave you to it boys, I still gotta go to work.” she smirked and left the apartment.

Buck didn’t even manage to say goodbye and she was gone. 

“Sorry.” Buck said, frowning.

“For what?” Eddie asked, moving closer to Buck.

“I—I, uh…” Buck trailed off.

Eddie came closer and hugged Buck tight, “You got nothing to be sorry about.” he murmured into Buck's neck.

“I just—I never got good things for long, I—I just don’t want to mess this up.” Buck stuttered.

“But that will change with me, with us.” Eddie said and looked up to meet Buck’s eyes, “I’m not going anywhere.” he continued.

Buck hummed in response.

“I would like to go back to bed now, It’s only six am.” Eddie grumbled.

“Gladly.” Buck chuckled.

Eddie laughed and pulled Buck by his hand upstairs. 

They both crawled in bed, Eddie shuffled closer to Buck.

Buck’s body relaxed, all worries seemed to vanish into thin air when Eddie was safe in his arms.

They cuddled for about an hour, before Buck's phone buzzed. Buck pulled away to look who was texting him, it was Bobby.

Bobby: I have extended your leave for three extra weeks. Take good care of your boy.

Buck was slightly confused why but he won’t complain. It was a few more weeks with his Eddie.

Buck: Thanks

Buck turned back to Eddie and pulled him closer, Eddie grumbled and frowned at him as he was almost asleep. 

“Sorry, didn't mean to wake you.” Buck murmured. 

“Mhm.” Eddie grumbled.

“Will pancakes make up for it?” Buck smirked.

“Maybe.” Eddie mumbled.

Buck was pleased with himself, “I’ll come back with pancakes.” Buck offered.

Buck got up and went downstairs to the kitchen. He looked for all the ingredients and began making pancakes. 

He brought both of their plates to bed, on a platter. Eddie turned on the TV and picked a documentary about the Pacific ocean.

They ate their breakfast as they watched the TV. 

“I think we should stay in bed today.” Eddie suggested.

“Is that so?” Buck smirked, “I wouldn't be opposed to that.” Buck continued.

“But we still have to make something for lunch and we could look at some house listings afterwards.” Buck offered

Both of them finished eating, Buck put the platters away and they shuffled closer together.

They watched one more documentary, about sea monkeys.

Time of lunch was approaching, Buck took the platters downstairs and looked at the food Maddie brought. There was mostly groceries, but also a few leftovers in tupperware. And they still got the leftovers from enchiladas yesterday.

For lunch they ate the leftovers from Maddie, chicken with mashed potatoes. 

Buck cleaned the kitchen island, Eddie went back to bed after lunch and Buck followed him with his macbook. 

“How about we look at some of the houses?” Buck asked.

“Sure.” Eddie agreed.

Buck lay next to him on bed and opened the laptop. Eddie leaned his head to Buck’s side as Buck looked for the listings website.

“This one looks good.” Eddie mumbled.

“Mhm, It has three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a nice backyard. It looks nice.” Buck smiled, “I’ll send them an email to set up a visit.” 

“M’kay.” Eddie murmured and hugged Buck.

“And done.” Buck said, closed the macbook and placed it on the nightstand. 

Eddie dropped his head on Buck’s shoulder.

Buck’s smile went wide, he pulled the duvet over them and started caressing Eddie’s back.

Eddie enjoyed Buck’s attention, practically purring as Buck stroked his back. 

“Did you have any hobbies before—uh you know…” Buck said out of the blue, trailing off.

“Mhm, I did play baseball in highschool, nothing much other than that.” Eddie murmured.

“So nothing else you liked to do? I think you liked taking pictures.” Buck smiled.

“I–Uh, I drew and read books, when I was with um…” Eddie trailed off.

“Um, would you like to read and draw in the future? Or would you like to try something else?” Buck asked hesitantly.

“I think I could try drawing or maybe painting.” Eddie murmured.

“We will buy supplies for that next time then.” Buck replied and ran his hand through Eddie’s hair.

“You are so nice.” Eddie whispered.

You deserve the world. I will never let anything happen to you again.

“I just want you to be happy.” Buck said instead.

“I am, more than ever.” Eddie replied.

Buck hummed in response.

They lay in bed, Eddie in Buck’s arms, when Eddie’s phone buzzed, Eddie crawled to take a look, it was a message from Maddie.

Maddie: Hi Eddie, it’s Maddie. I just wanted to ask if you would like that tour, I could bring you along tomorrow.

Eddie climbed back to bed with his phone, “It’s from Maddie.” Eddie announced and showed Buck the message.

“Mhm, are you ready? You don’t have to work there immediately, or ever, just enjoy the tour okay.” Buck stated.

“I know, we will see.” Eddie murmured.

Eddie: That would be great.

Maddie replied a few minutes later.

Maddie: Okay, I'll pick you up tomorrow around 7 am.

Eddie: Okay

Eddie puts the phone back to the night stand and rolls back to face Buck.

“Maddie will pick me up at 7 am.” Eddie informed.

“Sure, I'll pick you up when your tour ends, just text me or call me.” Buck offered with a smile.

“Thank you.” Eddie responded and shuffled closer to Buck.

Buck lifted his arms and Eddie moved into his embrace. 

“Thank you for everything Buck, I owe you.” Eddie whispered shyly, his head resting on Buck's shoulder.

“You don't owe me anything Eddie.” Buck replied softly, “You are brave and strong, you survived.” Buck continued, “I understand that trusting someone is hard after what you have been through, so take your time.”

“I—I’m not brave nor strong, I—I tried to kill myself once there.” Eddie stuttered, shaking.

Buck's eyes were glossy in an instant, “Hey, hey. Shhh, I'm so sorry, but you are here with me now.” Buck tried to sooth, “Are you thinking about doing that again?” Buck asked, trying to stay composed.

“Um, no, I just—wanted to escape, by any means.” Eddie replied, his eyes shining.

“You did, you did escape, you are stronger than you think Eddie.” Buck reassured with a tear escaping and staining his face.

Eddie looked up, couldn't hold back any longer, he started crying. Buck held him tight in his embrace and caressed his back. Buck's dam broke, his face was drenched in tears, he let them quietly cover his face.

Eddie's sobs died down after a few minutes. They remained in their embrace a little longer.

“I didn't mean to make you sad.” Eddie murmured.

“I'm glad you felt like you could tell me.” Buck replied and wiped his face.

“I just—I felt powerless, and there was nothing I could do. I just got lucky his heart stopped.” Eddie mumbled.

“But you stayed strong and endured hell, long enough for that to happen.” Buck tried to argue, “You didn't give up, you tried everything… not everything was the best idea, but I can't imagine how bad it was, to even consider…” Buck trailed off, more tears escaped.

“I'm glad you saved me.” Eddie blurted out sobbing.

“No one will ever hurt you again, me included.” Buck said softly as he wiped his eyes again.

“You would never hurt me, I know you for about a week, but I can't help but trust you, even Abuela said you are my guardian angel.” Eddie chuckled slightly.

Buck was surprised, “I---uh no one ever put this much trust in me.” Buck frowned, “You don't know me.” Buck added.

Eddie pulled away slightly to look Buck in the eyes, “But I want to get to know you more.” Eddie said firmly, “You saw my worst and stayed, that's more than my parents did.” Eddie frowned.

“When I hugged you the first time, I—I just knew I had to keep you safe.” Buck mumbled, “I just felt like I found my purpose. I know it sounds silly…” Buck trailed off.

“No… I felt so safe in your embrace, I couldn't let go.” Eddie mumbled and blushed.

“I will never let you go, unless you want me to of course.” Buck added.

“I know.” Eddie replied and hugged Buck tighter.

Buck stroked Eddie's back, “Let's watch some garbage tv show to lift our mood.” Buck said with a smile.

Eddie hummed in response.

Buck turned on the TV and pulled Eddie closer, “You wanna pick something?” Buck asked with a smile.

“I don’t care… just…hold me, please.” Eddie replied quietly.

Buck hummed and caressed Eddie’s back as he looked through the channels.

—

Eddie’s POV

They stayed in embrace, not really paying attention to the reality show playing. Buck kept stroking Eddie’s back and brushing through his hair, Eddie was now feeling a little better, he felt safe, protected and almost like… loved?

Eddie was so content in this embrace. Buck froze as he heard Eddie’s stomach growl.

“I’ll heat some of the leftovers for dinner, I lost track of time, sorry.” Buck blurted out.

“Don’t leave, please.” Eddie whispered.

“I’m not… okay, I’ll take you with me.” Buck replied and carefully took Eddie into his arms.

Eddie hummed and clasped his arms around Buck’s neck. Buck took him downstairs and put him down on the kitchen island, “I’m still here Eds.” he reassured.

Eddie looked at him and gave him a small nod.

Buck looked into the refrigerator and took the leftover enchiladas, putting them into a baking dish and turned on the oven. He walked back to Eddie and stood close to him between Eddie’s legs. Buck hugged him and stroked Eddie’s back as he waited for the oven to heat up. 

Eddie was enjoying the attention Buck gave him, rubbing his back and holding him close. Buck seemed to zone out, ignoring beeping from the oven.

Eddie brought him back from thinking as he caressed Buck’s back with both hands and cleared his throat, “I think it’s ready.” Eddie chuckled. 

Buck looked at the beeping oven, “Yeah sorry, zoned out a little.” Buck said and scratched his neck.

“It’s fine.” Eddie said and smiled at Buck.

Buck put the baking dish in the oven and set the timer for 10 minutes and went back to Eddie.

“Shall we sit on the couch as we wait?” Buck asked.

“Okay.” Eddie replied, and was about to jump down when Buck gently stopped him, “I can carry you there if you would like.” Buck asked shyly.

“Mhm, Okay.” Eddie replied and clasped his hands around Buck’s neck. 

Buck smiled and picked Eddie up and walked to the couch.

He sat down with Eddie in his lap, “This okay?” Buck asked softly. 

Eddie hummed.

“I would like a verbal response, I don’t want you to be uncomfortable.” Buck added softly.

“Mhm, It’s okay.” Eddie blushed.

Buck noticed but didn’t say anything, he stroked Eddie’s back, “Just say the word and I’ll stop, anytime.” Buck said as he stroked Eddie’s back, “You are the boss.” he added with a smile.

Eddie chuckled, “How could I ever think you are like Thomas.” Eddie whispered and hid his teary eyes in the crook Buck's neck.

“No, hey shh. It’s okay, you were scared and had every reason not to trust me. I hope I will earn your trust over time.” Buck tried to reassure.

Eddie hugged him tighter, “I trust you, I told you already.” Eddie grumbled.

“I’m glad you trust me, but you should get to know me first.” Buck replied with a smile.

“And I'm looking forward to it.” Eddie murmured.

Buck chuckled, “Me too.” he mumbled.

They got startled by the timer, Buck jumped up with Eddie in his arms, he gently put him down on the couch.

“I'll be back in no time.” Buck reassured Eddie with a smile.

Eddie nodded, “I know,” he replied.

Buck ran to the oven and took the enchiladas out. He served it on plates and carried it to the coffee table. He went back to the kitchen for the cutlery and to bring something to drink. 

Buck sat down next to Eddie and turned on the TV.

They ate their food while watching a Cooking reality show, mostly in silence, comfortable silence.

The show ended and they already finished eating.

“I’m kinda tired, I’ll go upstairs.” Eddie murmured and yawned.

“Just wait a sec, I’ll put these into the dishwasher.” Buck offered and turned off the TV.

Buck went to the kitchen and put the dishes in the dishwasher. He came back and bent down in front of Eddie.

“You want a lift?” Buck asked with a smile.

“Mhm, If you don’t mind.” Eddie chuckled.

Buck picked him up, Eddie put his arms around Buck’s neck and his legs around Buck’s hips. They went upstairs, Buck then carefully put Eddie on the bed and joined him from his side of the bed. Eddie was immediately next to him and waiting for Buck to offer his embrace.

How could Buck deny him anything, he opened his arms and Eddie launched into his embrace. Buck smiled as he caressed Eddie’s back.

“Do you want to sleep or watch some more TV?” Buck asked softly.

“I like this.” Eddie murmured and started stroking Buck’s back.

Buck relaxed under his touch in an instant, he purred slightly and Eddie looked up to meet his eyes.

“Sorry, I should have asked.” Eddie mumbled.

“It’s okay, I like it.” Buck reassured with a smile, “I would tell you if I don’t like something don’t worry.” he added.

Eddie nodded and moved his face in the crook of Buck’s neck, inhaling his calming scent.

They stayed like this for a while, before they eventually drifted off to sleep.

Chapter Text

Buck’s POV

Buck woke up by his alarm at 6 am, he got up and turned it off. Eddie was still asleep, Buck looked at the peaceful sight of his Eddie. He went downstairs and prepared breakfast. He made scrambled eggs with bacon, served it on a plate and set it on the kitchen island.

He went back upstairs, Eddie still fast asleep. Buck came closer and stroked his back with one hand and brushed through his hair with the other.

“Hey sleepyhead, rise and shine.” Buck whispered, “I made breakfast.” Buck tried to bribe.

Eddie grumbled, “Mhm, do I have to?” he muttered.

“You got the tour today.” Buck tried to reason.

“Uh, fine.” Eddie grumbled.

“I promise it will be worth it. Be a good boy and I’ll make sure there will be a reward.” Buck teased with a chuckle.

“I'll take you up on that.” Eddie chuckled and got out of bed. He frowned and yawned, his hair was a mess. Buck chuckled as he watched him get out of bed.

“What's so funny?” Eddie frowned, making an angry face.

“Nothing, you are just cute that's all.” Buck replied hesitantly.

Eddie turned away to hide his red cheeks, “Haha, I bet I look like I got run over by a bulldozer.” Eddie chuckled.

“No way, you are just not a morning person, that’s all.” Buck replied with a smile, “Let’s eat, you need to be ready in forty minutes.” Buck added with a smile.

They went downstairs and sat down to eat. Eddie inhaled the breakfast, Buck laughed as he looked at him.

“Thanks Buck, It was delicious.” Eddie praised with a smile and ran up to the bathroom.

Buck chuckled, looking up towards the loft, lost in thought. He was startled by his sister nudging his shoulder.

“Hi, I came a little earlier, I was so excited.” she beamed.

“Yeah, no problem, Eddie will be here in no time, just went to get changed.” Buck replied.

“Mhm, You look…happy.” she looked at him with a smile, “You too getting along well then?”

“Yeah, I think so. I like him, he’s so sweet.” Buck mumbled, “I hope… he likes me too.” Buck continued with a fake smile.

Maddie was about to say something, when Eddie ran down the stairs.

“Hi, sorry, did I take too long?” Eddie blurted with panic in his eyes.

“No, don’t worry, I came earlier.” Maddie reassured.

“Oh, okay. Sorry I’ll just go grab my phone upstairs.” Eddie added and ran upstairs.

Maddie waited a little before speaking, “It’s gonna be fine.” she whispered to Buck.

Buck nodded and looked at her, “Keep him safe for me.” Buck murmured.

“Of course.” Maddie giggled.

Eddie ran back to join them with his belongings. 

“Did you apply a scent blocker?” Maddie asked.

“Not yet sorry I didn’t realize.” Eddie apologized.

“Don’t worry we have time, you can still apply one or take a pill.” she offered.

“Fine, I’ll be right back.” Eddie added and went to the bathroom upstairs.

Maddie turned to Buck, “Don’t worry,I'll take care of your Eddie.” she teased.

Buck rolled his eyes and sighed.

Eddie was finally ready and he left with Maddie.

—

Buck was a little tense, Eddie was safe at the dispatch with his sister, yet he still felt the need to… protect him. But now there was nothing he could do. 

Buck went to the mall to stop himself from spiraling.

He bought a lot of stuff for drawing and painting, even a canvas. Buck was worried he was overdoing it, but then he thought about one more thing. That would be absolutely over the top, but Buck wants to give Eddie everything.

Buck came back home and put all the stuff on the kitchen island, for Eddie to see his surprise right away. He then went upstairs and brought his macbook, watching some videos and checking email. The pair selling the house, scheduled their visit for tomorrow.

—

Eddie’s POV

Eddie is a little startled from all the people here, he never liked high volumes of people. He followed Maddie, she introduced him to Sue and Josh for start, later he met Linda.

Maddie brought him to her desk and after some basic introduction she took a first call, a man who fell from a ladder. The calls were sometimes quite bizarre, a lady calling 911 because her food was poisoned and she wanted a refund.

But then there was one that caught Eddie off guard, a young omega boy was sexually assaulted by multiple Alphas. Eddie was fuming with anger, but also sadness, he understood in a way, the pain in the boy's voice stabbed him over and over.

When the call was over Maddie took them to the break room.

“Are you doing okay? That was a rough call.” Maddie asked softly.

“It's okay, I just, It was a lot.” Eddie managed to say.

“Some calls can hit too close to home, but we can't let them get to us, we are a lifeline for the person on the other end of the line.” she said with a smile.

Eddie nodded, and looked Maddie in the eyes with a smile.

“I think it was a good enough introduction for today.” Maddie said with a smile, “We can arrange this again or we can talk about the job offer and stuff the next time I visit you guys.” she added.

“That would be great, I'll text Buck to pick me up.” Eddie replied.

Maddie nodded and left Eddie in the break room.

Eddie: Can you please pick me up?

Buck: On my way

Buck arrived around fifteen minutes later, they left the building together and headed to Buck’s Jeep.

“So how was it?” Buck asked as they sat down.

“It was nice, interesting, but there was a call from a young omega who was raped. It was… a lot.” Eddie frowned.

“I'm so sorry, it's sad that things like that happen.” Buck frowned. Not sure what to say to that.

Eddie turned to him, “It’s just—I don’t know, it made me sad and angry.” he mumbled.

“I hope my surprise at home will help your mood a little.” Buck said softly.

“What surprise?” Eddie looked at him with wide eyes.

“It wouldn’t be a surprise if I told you.” Buck chuckled.

“I would still act surprised.” Eddie tried to argue.

Buck laughed, “We are just five minutes away, hang in there.” he said with a smile.

Eddie frowned at him, “Then hurry up.” Eddie grumbled.

Buck chuckled as they arrived at the parking lot near their apartment.

—

Eddie ran into the apartment as soon as Buck unlocked the door, and his eyes instantly snapped towards the pile of crayons, papers and other stuff for painting. 

“That—that’s a lot.” Eddie blurted out.

Buck chuckled, “I know, but I wasn’t sure what to buy so I bought everything.” Buck said and scratched the back of his neck. 

“Thank you.” Eddie said and launched himself towards Buck. Buck hugged him back.

“You’re welcome, but there is one more thing…” Buck trailed off.

“What?” Eddie said and looked up to meet Buck’s eyes.

Buck walked around the kitchen island and took a bag from the floor. Eddie was curious what it was, but then he saw an Apple logo on the bag.

Buck gave him the bag and instructed to go sit at the coffee table with it.

Eddie looked inside, there was an Ipad, Apple pencil and a case for it. Eddie was out of words.

“I thought you could try drawing on a tablet.” Buck said hesitantly, “Sorry if it’s too much, I…” Buck trailed off.

“No, I just—thank you. No one ever cared this much.” Eddie mumbled.

Buck looked at him with a frown.

“I never got something I wanted, I always got things my parents thought were needed for me to present as Alpha.” Eddie added with his voice wavering.

“C’mere.” Buck offered.

Eddie placed the bag on the coffee table and hugged him.

“You are more than what you presented as. You are Eddie, brave, strong, sweet, kind, cute , and more.” Buck tried to reassure.

Eddie chuckled slightly, “Cute?” he teased.

“That’s all you got from it?” Buck chuckled.

Eddie laughed, and Buck would do anything to hear that laugh everyday.

“So, you can set up your Ipad and I’ll start making something for lunch, hm?” Buck proposed.

“Okay, thank you.” Eddie added.

Buck brushed a hand through Eddie’s hair and went to the kitchen.

Eddie turned on the Ipad, set up the basic stuff and downloaded some apps for drawing and went upstairs to put it on the charger. He came back downstairs and grabbed a piece of paper and pencil. He sat down at the kitchen island and started drawing. 

—

Buck’s POV

Buck finished cooking, serving the spaghetti on plates. He turned around and stood next to Eddie, watching him draw. There were outlines of a dog and a cat, it was just a sketch for now.

They went to eat lunch together on the couch, watching some terrible reality show, their guilty pleasure it seems.

Eddie then went back to drawing, Buck sat next to him and watched him.

“You can draw too, you know.” Eddie chuckled.

“I like watching you draw, don’t worry I’ll try drawing later.” Buck said with a smile.

Eddie hummed and continued drawing.

The picture was now more refined, resembling a cat lying next to a dog, the cat is sleeping and shuffled close to the dog who's still awake. 

Eddie later added color with crayons, black cat shuffled closer to a golden fur dog with blue eyes.The drawing was beautiful. 

Eddie looked at him, “Do you like it?” he asked hesitantly.

“It’s beautiful.” Buck replied softly.

“I like to draw things with a meaning behind it.” Eddie said and looked at the drawing, “And this is…” he trailed off.

Buck looked back at the picture and smiled, he felt tears build up, happy tears.

Eddie turned to look him in the eyes, “So you get it?” Eddie asked softly.

“I do, and I love it… you are talented.” Buck praised.

“I had time to practice.” Eddie frowned and shuffled closer to Buck.

“It’s over now…” Buck said as he brought Eddie into a hug, “You can draw your feelings, it may help you to express them.” Buck murmured softly.

“Mhm, I can try.” Eddie murmured.

“Take your time.” Buck replied.

Eddie continued drawing, Buck watched him for some time before he started drawing himself.

“We got a tour of the house we looked at yesterday.” Buck shared as their draw.

Eddie hummed in response and smiled.

They continued drawing, mostly in silence.

Buck finished his drawing of a tree in the middle of a field, with a slightly shorter and smaller tree next to it.

Eddie finished his, a stump and a fallen withered tree next to it. Buds sprouted from the stump.

Buck looked at Eddie’s drawing, seeing the meaning behind it, feeling sad, but also relieved. 

Eddie looked at Buck’s drawing and hummed after a few moments, before climbing into Buck’s embrace.

“We will heal together.” Eddie murmured.

“I’d like nothing more.” Buck mumbled.

—

Eddie’s POV

They went upstairs as Eddie was a little tired after waking up early. Buck joined him in bed and Eddie grabbed his new Ipad. He looked through the stuff on there and tried drawing on it. 

Eddie was mainly getting used to drawing on the tablet, trying colors, brushes and other settings.

Buck watched him in silence.

Eddie drew a few small sketches before putting the Ipad to the nightstand.

“Thank you.” Eddie murmured as he crawled back to Buck.

“I’m glad you like it.” Buck replied with a smile.

Eddie hummed and shuffled under the duvet. Buck joined him and pulled him in embrace, Eddie clinged to him tight.

“I’m sorry for being this clingy.” Eddie murmured.

“Don’t be, I’m enjoying it.” Buck responded with a smile. 

Eddie started stroking Buck’s back. Buck hummed in response and caressed Eddie’s back.

They lay there for a while, enjoying the peace and each other's company.

 Their bubble popped as soon as Eddie’s stomach growled. 

Buck chuckled, “I should make dinner.” he said with a smile.

Eddie hummed and clung tighter to Buck.

“But I can’t if you hold me.” Buck teased, “You can go downstairs with me you know.” he added.

“Fine.” Eddie grumbled.

Buck went down the stairs and Eddie tailed right behind him. 

Eddie patiently sat at the kitchen island and watched as Buck looked through all the food Maddie brought them. Buck then turned around with a tupperware box in his hands.

Buck opened the box, revealing a mac’n'cheese inside. He served it on two plates and put it in the microwave.

They munched the food in silence, both too hungry to talk.

Eddie finished eating first, he sighed and went to grab a drink to the fridge. Buck was pleased when Eddie poured him one too. 

“Thanks, Eds.” Buck said In between bites.

Eddie turned around to hide his blushing face, hoping Buck was too busy finishing his meal to notice.

Eddie waited for Buck to finish eating before he took the dishes and put them to the dishwasher.

Both of them went upstairs, Eddie took a shower and brushed his teeth. Buck followed shortly after.

They lay to bed, unconsciously meeting in the middle, holding each other. 

Eddie still wondered how he deserved all this care and protection from Buck, feeling so safe and something… he can't quite place.

Buck seemed to relax when Eddie climbed in his embrace, Eddie noticed a slight change in Buck’s scent.

“You smell nice.” Eddie murmured.

Buck’s breath hitched, “Yeah? I like your smell too.” Buck whispered hesitantly.

Eddie nuzzled Buck’s neck and took a deep breath, before he drifted away.

—

Buck’s POV

Buck was glad for the easy way out, calming down instantly. Having Eddie in his arms felt like home . He was overwhelmed by that feeling, he only ever felt that way with Maddie, but not to this extent. 

Will I be enough for him? To take care of him? Protect him? Love him?  

Enough for him to choose me ? To stay? Be the first one—to stay?

Buck was drowning in his mind, overthinking all the possibilities. He was brought back to reality, Eddie caressed his back and looked him in the eyes, Eddie's eyes shined in the minimal light coming from downstairs, eyes filled with worry and fear. 

“I'm so sorry, I just got lost in thought.” Buck whispered softly and stroked Eddie’s back.

“You smell strange… Wanna talk about it?” Eddie asked.

“Not now, let’s just sleep.” Buck replied quietly.

Eddie hummed and tightened his grip on Buck, as if he would ever leave him.

Both of them eventually fell asleep.