Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

May rushes into the house, hand holding onto her phone in a tight grip. She slams the door closed, rushing forward searching the house. She doesn't even remember if her mom is here or not. She just knows she has to tell her.

She also hopes Bobby isn't here. She loves him, he's stepped in the stepfather role for her nicely. It took a while to get there but they did. Though she knows as much as anyone Buck disappearance hurt him. Not immediately but after a few months of no contact it hit him. She always knew those two were father and son even if they weren't blood related, May also knows her mother thinks so too. Her mom also sees Buck as a son. It hurt her too. She was so worried but she couldn't find anything for him. Almost like he just stopped existing. Fell off the face of the earth.

No one heard anything. Calls and Text went unanswered.

Three months after, it was time for everyone to confess. They all knew Buck was treated horribly. They made it worse, and didn't help. It then became something they could understand why he did it. He just wanted his job back, a job that Bobby didn't let him have. Athena was mad at Bobby for a while but after a long time they smoothed it over. Athena was no better. She took Bobby's side in the beginning. After all was said and done she did nothing. She talked to Buck but that wasn't enough.

And they haven't seen him since. May also has missed him. He was kind. Funny. Goofy. He was a good older brother. He listened to her drama, which is funny because all she had was high school girl drama but Buck never made it seem like she was being dramatic like most people do. She missed that. Especially now that she has work drama from the dispatch center.

But she may have found him. Lucky that she was on Instagram scrolling through during her lunch break. She's been waiting for work to end all day. She wants to tell her mom, she knows her mom hasn't given up her search. There's just no leads. Until now.

She catches her mom on the patio, sitting on a lounge chair with a glass of water. "Mom!" she screams rushing out the back door to the backyard, her jacket still on, and her backpack hanging off one shoulder. Athena looks up worried and on alert.

"May, what wrong?" She asks. May looks around. She must look crazy.

"Is Bobby here?" May asks serious and low in case he is here.

"No, he's still at work why?" Athena sits up, putting the book in her hand to the side.

"I found him." May fall to sit with her mother.

"Found who?" Athena wonders taking a look over her daughter to make sure she isn't hurt.

"Buck. He's okay." May shows her phone. Athena looks skeptical but takes it. It's the post May just saw. Posted three days ago. It's a picture of Buck, curls free next to a house by the beach. A small boy in his arms both smiling at the camera. The tag is just a hashtag full of having fun. Enjoying the beach. Sunny day. Love. With a lot of red hearts. No words just hashtags.

May wipes a tear. They all have been worried.

Athena lets out a breath. He's okay. Then, she looks closer going into detective mode. Analyzing every inch of the photo. Athena doesn't know if it's purposefully but there's not much to go on. Buck is still Buck, though it's obvious his body has changed. He's wearing tropical decorated swim shorts, and a thick strap tank top with a dog on it. His hand is around the child's side who is dressed similarly as Buck. The child though has curly dark brown hair with blue eyes. Both are smiling at the camera. They are in front of what looks like a ranch style house. There is a gap they are in, from the side of the house to the fence showing off the back, a small bush on the side, but Athena can make out the beach on the back of the house instead of a backyard. To the side, what looks like a front patio there is a table with drinks. Three of them.

There's nothing much to go off with this. Athena then goes to Buck's profile to see what else he may have posted. And it's nothing. He stopped posting just a little before the fire truck bombing. And there's nothing until this post. Athena let's out a huff.

"What are you going to do?" May asks knowing her mom isn't going to just let this be. Even if it is to just get an answer she's going to find him.

Athena hands the phone back. "I'm going to find him."

"What about Bobby?" May asks taking her phone.

"Don't speak about this to him." Athena says. May nods. She had no intention to. But she doesn't know who she is doing it for. Buck who obviously doesn't want to be around them or Bobby who was so stuck in grief they never thought he'd recover until Athena gave him the wake up call. Bobby has been better but they don't want to remind him. It's sort of been a silent agreement to never mention Buck. Not in front of Bobby.

But after everyone has expressed how they miss him, there wasn't much to talk about. Sure, sometimes they guess what he might be doing. Other times they reminisce. Eddie gets the saddest when they do that. Talking about a Buck Eddie doesn't know, reminding him they no longer have Buck.

Honestly it's thanks to Athena that everyone hasn't broken down. Not completely.

So Athena gets to work. Using the picture she asks around at work for someone to help identify where he may be. Where the ranch style house is at. She feels guilty about keeping it a secret from Bobby but the last thing she wants is to give him false hope.

Plus, she knows Buck would not be happy about seeing Bobby. One for the reason the lawsuit happened in the first place, and two he left without saying goodbye, he obviously didn't want to see them. They turned their backs on him so he turned his back on them.

For now she needs to get answers. See what's going on. Then depending on what she sees and hears she'll drag him back. By the ear if she has too. Of course she knows not to push.

Athena sighs. She takes a look around. And she thought LA is hot. She looks at the house in front of her. It looks exactly like the one she saw in the post. Her eyes land on the familiar jeep parked in the driveway. Athena looks around to see it's a cute street. Though don't ask her the name, she does not know Spanish.

She's a little cranky, after all in order to get here she took an eight to nine hour long flight with a two hour layover just to get here.

She knew Buck use to live here, right before going to LA but she never really understood just how far Peru is from the states. Buck was so young when she met him, she can not imagine him, younger still, traveling all the way down here in a jeep. Her heart aches at the idea of Harry or even May coming all the way here without anyone really knowing. Sure Maddie knew but as far as Buck knew she never got those postcards. And what would that do? If something happened it's such a far trip to Peru from the states. And Maddie was in Boston. That's way further.

Athena walks up to the small gate, undoing it to get to the door. That boy better let her stay. She spend almost a week waiting for the results and even after learning he's most likely in Peru, they needed to find a way to get specifically where. That took another three days, after long calls and putting in favors she found his address. Then she had to come up with an excuse, get the tickets and pack then leave. May is the only one who knows what she's doing.

She had a five hour flight from LA to El Salvador, the stayed there for two hours before finally coming to Lima, Peru. The capital of Peru. She doesn't know if this is exactly where he was while Buck was bartending but that's where he is now. She's tired and hungry. But now that she's here she wants answers. And she will get them.

With her suitcase next to her she knocks on the door. It's still morning, the light already in. Barely the morning and it's already hot.

"Abuela," Buck's voice says happy with a slight chuckle. Athena pauses, she didn't know how much she missed him until now. Of course she missed him. Her boy. But hearing his voice really driving in that point. "No están despiertos to-Athena!"(They aren't wake ye- Athena?) Buck's door is fully open. He stands there staring at her with wide eyes. "Athena?" Buck questions, not believing she's here.

"Hey, Buckaroo." Athena smiles. He's obviously grown. Especially his muscles. Though that can be because the last time she saw him he hasn't been working so he wasn't bulked up. Still tall, muscles on his biceps, though his waist has also grown. He was always slim around his waist and hips. That doesn't seem to be the case anymore. He's healthy though, with a glow she can't imagine he ever really had.

"What are you-?" He starts not able to asks. He looks scared. Which is something he should never look at her like. "How did you find me?" Buck wonders.

"May saw the post you put up on Instagram." Athena answers calmly. "Don't worry only the two of us know about it." Athena adds knowing that must be why he is apprehensive of her. Buck shoulder loosen, he nods.

"Come on in." Buck steps to the side to let her in. Athena reaches over for her suitcase but Buck stops her. "I got it." He says with a small smile, it was tight. Not his loose and deeply happy smiles he usually gives her. She'd take his mischievous one than whatever that tight smile of his he just gave her was.

"Thank you." Athena nods. She walks in taking in the house. It's... so different from his loft. The loft was always clean and sparkling. Fake. Not really lived in. But this house is. It's still clean and sparkling. That might just be Buck. He isn't really a messy person. But this house is lived in. There's a quilt over the couch. A t.v. Coffee table. Children's toys are out but not in the way and are not a hazard. Every surface is covered with picture frames. Most are of Buck and a baby boy. Or girl? There's even some with some people she doesn't know of.

On the wall of the dining area there's a picture of him and the firehouse family of 118. Buck smile large, with everyone else. Karen, Denny, Chris and Maddie are also there. She takes a look around to see this is the only picture he has of LA. The others are of his two years in Peru. He looks happy in them all. He's made a life for himself here.

Buck walks past her. "Would you like something to drink?" Buck asks kindly.

"Just water." She says sitting at the dining table. It's large with a dark wood, easily seat ten people. A flower arrangement in the middle. What stands out the most are the two high chairs.

Buck is quick to get that for her. As she drinks her water, not realizing how thirsty she is, she smells food. He must have been cooking breakfast. "So... what are you doing here?" Buck asks, he sets down a plate of scrambled eggs.

"For you. You just disappeared." Athena says. She sees the shrug Buck gives as he goes back into the kitchen. 

"Everyone said I was better gone. So I left." Buck says setting down two children's plates on the high table.

"Buck, you don't have to listen to those people. They aren't you're family." Athena looks at him sincerely. Angry at the asshole who told him that. When she finds out who... there will be hell to pay.

"Chim told me that." Buck says looking into her eyes.

"What?" Athena's eyes widen. Buck turns around to go back into the kitchen.

"Chim told me everything was better before I joined. Said it's been quiet without me there and that I should have stayed away." He explains. He walks back with two small cups. "Said it was better with me gone."

"He was just angry." Athena says, though she's getting angry.

"It doesn't matter anymore." Buck says with another shrug, putting the small cups on the high chair.

"Everyone misses you." Athena says, making sure he knows. Watching as he once again moves to the kitchen.

"I... I really don't believe that." He says softly. 

"Buck, you know me. I don't lie. We do miss you." Athena tells him firmly. Unsure how to prove that to him.

"I didn't feel like you all cared. But thanks for not telling anyone. I am glad to see you." Buck gives her a smile. A real one.

"I know it's a stupid question but... do you plan to go back?" Athena wonders watching as he goes into the kitchen again.

"No. Not anytime soon. My work is here and..." Buck lets out a sigh, "my life is here. And until something happens here then I'll be here." He comes out with two plates, one full of hashbrowns and another of sausages.

Athena can only sit in silence as she drinks her water. Watching Buck move to set the table, then going back in to grab a plate of waffles. He sets it at the table, he pauses. Fingers fiddling with the edge of each plate. Nervous.

"How... how is everyone?" Buck asks, seems more like a nervous child than an adult.

"Living. We missed you Buck. I'm not lying. We almost broke down without you." Buck gives her a doubtful looks and she can't fault him for that. Obviously he was being bullied verbally. "We know we messed up. We treated you horribly. We just wanted to know if you are okay."

"I'm okay." Buck tells her, a small smile on his face again but this one isn't tight and forced like the other one.

"I know now. Would have been nice to tell me two years ago." Athena gives him a look. He return his own sheepish look.

"No one seemed to want to take my calls or text. I gave up." Buck says going back to the kitchen.

"Yeah, we all talked. Told everyone Bobby kept you from working, told everyone that you dropped the lawsuit. They all felt guilty as they thought Bobby won and they still let you work with them. Hen knew though."

"I know. She was the only one that welcomed me back." Buck comes back with two sets of children's utensils. "How is she and Karen? Denny?" Buck wonders once again back in the kitchen.

"Good. Karen and Hen were hoping to have another baby but it didn't work out. They are looking to adopt instead." Athena says. Buck beams at that.

"Are you hungry?" Buck asks.

"Yes." Athena answers instantly causing Buck to laugh.

Buck sets the table up. "The others?" Putting the plates in the middle. Moving a place mat for him and Athena.

"Eddie and Chris are... having problems. Chris wants to see you, but we had to tell him the truth. We don't know where you are. And Chris had begged Eddie to contact you but it didn't work. Then he overheard us talking about being mean to you. Learning Eddie was mean to you he got mad. He threw a big tantrum. It doesn't help that... Ana, she's Eddie new girlfriend, Chris doesn't like her. He wants to be where you are. Eddie seems to be at the end of his rope." Athena tells him. Buck nods and he looks guilty pausing in his setting up the table. "Hey, Chris loves you but you aren't his parent. That's not your responsibility."

"I know. But I wish Chris didn't get stuck in the middle of this." Buck says setting a plate for her and him.

"We all do. But Eddie made that choice so it's his problem to deal with." Athena informs him. As much as those two are good at parenting together, Buck doesn't have any legal ground towards Chris.

"What else?" Buck wonders, wanting to think about something else.

"Bobby and I are well. Nothing really changed. I don't think you want to hear much about him." Athena looks at him calmly.

"I'm glad he's well. And you too." Buck looks back. He may not be happy about Bobby but that doesn't mean he wants something bad to happen to him. He truthfully is happy to hear that Bobby is good. It shows in his small smile.

"May is working as a dispatcher." Athena smiles. Proud of her daughter.

"Really?" Buck straightens. He didn't think she'd be interested in that.

"She's taking a gap year before she goes into her studies." Buck nods.

"I hope she enjoys it." Buck means it.

"And Chim and Maddie..." Athena looks at the high chair. She wonders if she should say anything. Then again she hasn't heard much from either. "I don't have much to say about them. Maddie was very sad about you disappearing. But a few months ago she gave birth."

"She got pregnant?" Buck's eyes widen.

"Yes. Her and Chim welcomed a baby girl. Jee-yun."

"I wish I knew." Buck says wishfully. A little bit regretful.

"It's just as well. Maddie left." Athena says sadly.

"What?" Buck eyes widen. She left her baby?

"Yeah. She left Chim with Jee. Chim went after her. It's been a few months now. Jee should be five, six months now. We haven't heard any news." Athena shakes her head.

"Well, let me know when they get back or if you hear anything." Buck says hoping they are okay. He would love to meet his niece. But before that he just hopes they are okay.

"What about you? Should I be congratulating you? Kids and a wife." Athena says with a grin on her face. The boy found a family. A dream come true.

"What?" Buck look at her questioningly.

"The high chair and you have a tan line for a ring on you finger." Athena looks to his hand, confused. Buck does too.

"Oh." Buck then laughs. "No. I'm not married. I use a ring during work to not get bothered." Buck says rubbing it. He never noticed a tan line being there. As soon as he gets off work he takes it off leaving it in his jeep.

"Mama!" Two voices call. Two young figures come rushing towards them. Athena watches as two kids, a boy from the picture and a girl, who look identical come running to Buck. Buck smiles opening his arms.

"Mis bebes." He hugs them tight causing them to laugh. Athena isn't shocked. She thought maybe the boy from the Instagram post was just a kid he knew. That went away when she saw the pictures, even more at the high chairs. She knew at that point he's a parent. But 'mama'. He's the mother? How? Who's the father? Buck smiles at Athena, bringing her back to reality. Buck easily stands up with them in his arms. Smoothly he puts them in their chairs. "Turns out I'm a carrier." Buck says, focus on getting his twins in their seats for breakfast.    

"Parents never tested you." Athena points out annoyed. They truly never cared.

"Nope. They have a lot of secret it turns out." Buck says just as annoyed.

"Okay, so you're not married. You have twins who are..." Athena looks at them. They can't be more than two years old. He was pregnant when he left or got pregnant after he left. "Their father?" Athena asks, Buck's face pinches. Not wanting to tell her. He sets their plates up. Two small waffles for them, some scrambled eggs, a sausage and hashbrown. "Buck?" Athena calls.

Buck silently moves to the kitchen. "Eddie." Athena hears him says.

"Eddie?" Athena asks shocked.

Buck comes in with some orange juice. He sits at the table. "Yeah. Before the lawsuit we were somewhat in a relationship. I felt like it was always leading there. After the firetruck him and Chris were always there. Then the embolism happened. That's when we confessed. The tsunami happened. Before the lawsuit we had a moment. Obviously." Buck looks at the twins. He looks back at Athena. "I... didn't tell him about the lawsuit. Obviously he was mad, but I thought he'd take my side. Instead he went with Bobby. I quit and was traveling down here again. I didn't know I was pregnant until months after. I wanted to be away from everyone and everything. I learned about the twin. I thought there was one baby, but the closer we got it was off. Then we learned there are two. I've been here ever since." Buck explains as he puts food on his plate. Athena following him.

"He doesn't know?" Athena asks. She has to even if it's obvious.

"No. After I learned I thought it didn't matter. He was so mad. All of you were. What was the point? Plus, I could take care of them myself." Buck says looking at the twins with a soft smile on his face watching as they eat. Athena looks at them again. They have Buck's eyes but Eddie's hair color but both have Buck's curls. They even have Eddie mole under their eye. Though their smile is Bucks'. And they have tan skin. Though so does Buck. Theirs seems natural though. Buck's tan is obviously from being out in the sun too long.

"Buck... how about coming back with me?" Athena asks watching them. Buck turns to her but she keeps her eyes on the twins.

"Athena... I can't just leave. I have work. Which I need to leave for in two hours." Buck says.

"No, not permanently. Just a vacation with the twins. Just so everyone can see you." Athena knows she can't just convince him to live in LA, but a visit should be possible.

"I don't know. The only people I really want to see is Hen, Karen, Denny and Chris." Buck says. He was never sure it was worth it. He also was unsure if they'd be happy to see him, what was the point? So he stayed away.

"Why not Maddie?" Athena raises an eyebrow.

"During the lawsuit, she was also mad with me. Said somethings. Went with Chimney. I would love to meet Jee one day but I don't think so any time soon." Buck tells her.

"I'll be here for a couple days, I have enough time to convince you." Athena says, it's a fact, but it sounds like a threat.

"Athena, I don't want to be anywhere close to Bobby. I especially don't want the twins around him either." Buck says firmly. He's putting his foot down.

"Mad at him?"

"I just wanted my job back. Wanted my family. I love Eddie and Chris but you guys were my family before them. Was that so wrong?" Buck looks at Athena with sadness in his blue eyes.

"Okay." Athena says calmly. It would do no good to push here. "What are the twins names?" Athena wonders changing the topic.

"Damian and Isabel Diaz." Buck answers the twins look up questioningly.

"Not Buckley?"

"Didn't want them to have my last name, one I don't really like." Buck explains. Athena nods.

Athena sits on the patio. She sits there just watching the empty street. There are some cars parked but it's very quiet here. Peaceful.

She had spend the whole day, after Buck went to work, to explore. Lima is a city. Like any other. This showed her she's not much of a tourist by herself. She's sure Bobby would love to explore. She did try some food. Walked around. She got bored instantly.

So here she is, sitting at the patio to Buck's house. The twins over at his neighbors. An older lady who lives alone. From what Athena gathered she is always babysitting the twins when he's at work. He even gave her his spare key so she can come in and out without worry. Though now she's getting worried. The sun is setting and Buck still isn't at home. The day before he left in what he's wearing and a duffel bag. Athena can guess what he's doing but that doesn't matter.

What has her worried is the fact that she's running out of time, she didn't get enough time off. Already she has lost two days. She still needs to talk to Buck.

"Perdóname."(Pardon me.) Athena looks over, the older women, Esperanza Tapia is her name, is standing on her lawn, separated with a fence and flowers. The women gives her a kind smile. "Would you like to join us. Buckito would be home soon." She wonders, her accent is thick.

"Sure." Athena says getting up. She walks around to join her. As she follows Esperanza in her home she see her talking in full Spanish to the twins. They give Athena a toothy smile, before nodding and going off.

"I hope you have enjoyed your visit." She tells Athena as she goes into the kitchen.

"I came to talk to Buck." Athena says at the table, taking a look around.

"Oh. May I asks why?" Esperanza wonders, sounding sad. Athena takes in the old walls, and picture frames.

"The family he made in Los Angeles miss him. I came here to talk to him and see about visiting. They are all worried." Athena says, noting the toys are a mix of old and new.

"He'd agree." Esperanza nods.

"How do you know?" Athena looks towards the kitchen.

"I do. It doesn't take long to see what type of boy he is. He's kind. An Angel. He wouldn't want to worry anyone." Esperanza says coming into view.

"How has his life been here?" Athena asks looking around, no twins. They must be further into the house.

"I don't know how he was is Los Angeles, but I think he's doing well. Buck has made a community here. We love him. And the twins." She answers. Athena doesn't doubt that. Buck will find a way, he doesn't give up.

Athena helps the twins set the plates down. As they are finishing up she hears a car pull into the driveway. Going to the window, looking over she sees it's Buck. She watches him walk into his house.

"Mama!" The twins shout joining Athena at the window.

"Careful! Careful! You're mama will join us." Esperanza tells the twins.

"Have you two washed your hands?" Athena asks them.

"Hands?" Damian wonders.

"Manos limpias?"(Clean hands?) Isabel shows him her hands, translating it seems.

"Espera!"(Wait!) They both shout rushing off. Athena smiles. She moves over to join them at the table, helping serve the food onto everyone's plate.

"Huele bien." (Smells good.) Buck says announcing his presence. He closes the door behind him. Dressed in a t-shirt and sweats. Hair damp.

"Bienvenido a casa. Buen día en el trabajo."(Welcome home. Good day at work?) Esperanza goes forward to hug him. Pinching his cheeks.

"Buen día."(Good day.) Buck smiles. "Hi Athena." Buck turns his smile to her.

"Hey Buckaroo." Athena smiles.

"Mama!!" The twins shout running to Buck. He engulfs them in hugs. Laying kisses on their heads or anywhere he can reach. It's cute. No one ever doubted Buck would be a wonderful parent.

Athena joins them in eating. The food is good. Buck of course eats two full plates.

It's after that Buck helps Esperanza clean up. While they wait the twins fall asleep. Buck carries one while Athena carries the other. Carefully drop them off onto their beds. The twins sharing a room. Buck kisses them good night, even though they are way past sleeping.

Athena follows him to the living room. Both sitting on the couch.

"I've thought about it." Buck says, jumping right into it. He knows Athena doesn't like sugar coating or dancing around the issue so he's just going to start talking. It's a shock for Athena, she thought she'd have to start this.

"And?"

"I don't know Athena. I want to go. I'd love to see Hen and Chris. But with the twin... I also have work."

"But you do want to go eventually right?" Athena asks, as long as she can get Buck to visit, even in the future, that's enough.

"I do." Buck says seriously. He does but he's been scared.

"Then we start there. When do you have time off. I can help coordinate a time. A schedule. I'll help you see the people you want to see." Athena says.

"Okay." Buck says. He missed Athena. It's good to see her.

Chapter Text

Athena takes a deep breath in then out.

Her eyes are up, looking at the airport signs. Looking for where she has to go. Thinking about what to do next. She also has to get to her car. It was hectic getting here, back home, and it's just begun. She wanted to stay with Buck but she had to come back. Luckily they made a plan.

Feeling something tugging on her hand Athena looks down. One of the twin, Isabel, is pulling on it. Athena sighs. Buck had warned her. She didn't believe him. When packing Buck insisted Athena attach the leash for the twin's backpacks. Warning her they will wonder off. At first she thought Buck was questioning her, she can handle two kids. She does have two kids.

Twin are not the same!!

It's a whole new ballpark. If one doesn't need something the other does. And they both listen to her about the same. She promised Buck to use them and immediately it was proven why. Buck had dropped her off with the twins at the airport. And Damian had started to wander off. Lucky for Athena a simple whistle from Buck had Damian rushing back. Athena put the leashes on the backpacks then. No need to wait and risk it.

She knew it wasn't going to be easy right then and there. And it wasn't. Lucky for her Buck gave her all the tips and tricks. And the trip back to LA she learned that Isabel is very much like Buck; loud, talkative, and curious. Damian on the other hand is much like Eddie; shy, quiet, and not trusting, oh and follows his sister. Athena never got the chance to ask who is older.

It was a rush to get things in order so they can travel. Apparently Buck already had their passports made. Buck has said he wanted to visit but there was never a push so they had their passports but were never used.

Now they need to go to luggage claim. Buck had just used a luggage for an adult for the twins. Stuffing their things inside. Buck trust Athena so she's doing everything she can to not break that trust. If she does something he doesn't like they may never see him. They'll have to go down to him to see.

She would much rather not have to travel so far, but it's going to take a lot more planning and convincing (maybe even a lot of groveling) for Buck to decided to live in LA again. It's going to be expensive to move his house from Peru to LA. It'll take some time. But it starts here.

So with the twins following her they make their way to luggage claim. The bag is full of clothes they may need and extra. Buck went momma mode and made sure they had everything and more. Athena did not say anything, she isn't much better. She's glad he did. The twins will be staying with her at a hotel for three days before Buck joins them. He had a shift and after he wanted to get the house prepared and Esperanza settled without them for a couple days. Days because Buck never said how long they were planning on staying.

Athena grabs the luggage while she rolls her own carry on. They make their way to the cars, finding her own, a man already there to help put in the rental car seats. She watches as the man does so. She doesn't mind. Then her hand starts to vibrate. She's getting a call. She sees who it is.

"Hello?" Athena says looking down at the twins. Staring at everything.

"Athena, it's Pepa. We are here."

"Thank you for listening to my strange request." Athena says. The man done. He gives Athena a ticket. She takes it.

"It's no problem, we were just shocked. We are happy to help, though we would like to know with what."

"I'll explain when I'm there. I'll see you soon." Athena says her goodbye and hangs up. She quickly gets the twins inside. With that she puts the luggage in the trunk. Then gets herself in the driver's seat. She takes a picture of the twins. She sends a quick message to Buck that they made it in one piece. He may not get it because of the time difference but he'll see it when he has time. Athena gets out of the parking lot, paying the fee and getting on the highway to get to Eddie's house where they are meeting the older Isabel Diaz and Pepa.

Buck had decided to just let everyone know. Buck didn't want Athena and by extension May, to keep a secret from everyone so he gave her permission to tell everyone. When it comes to the twin's father Buck said Eddie should know. There was no real hiding it but Athena has decided that that truth is for Buck to tell Eddie. But Buck wants Pepa or Isabel to be the one to look after the twin when Athena can't. They speak Spanish so it's a no brainer. And traveling with them Athena can see why. The twins talk a lot to each other in Spanish. From what she has seen in the last two years Buck has learned a lot of Spanish himself. Esperanza most likely helping him.

On the layover Athena had called and text Pepa about helping her. She didn't tell them what specifically just to meet at Eddie's house, and that hopefully he's not there. To also not tell Eddie. She also texted Chim about finding Buck. Athena knows Maddie was worried sick. Buck may not want to see them but that doesn't mean they can't know.

She rolls up to Eddie's house, because she knows where it is. As soon as she comes to a stop the door opens to the two older women walking out. Both wanting answers.

Athena hops out. "Thank you again for helping." Athena says going to the back door to open. Hand on the car door handle.

"We are happy to help. You have taken care of our Edmundo." Pepa says getting closer.

"It would be good to know what we are helping with." Isabel wonders walking with her daughter.

"I found Buck." Athena says opening the door.

"Buckito!!!!" Isabel shouts almost excited. Guess it wasn't just the fire family wishing for Buck's safety.

"He's okay?" Pepa wonders getting closer.

"Yeah he's fine." Athena smile to reassure them.

"Where is he?" Isabel wonders looking around as if he's hiding himself.

"He is in Peru at the moment. And I need help for them." Athena takes Damian out first, cause he's closest.

"Who is this cutie?" Isabel sr. wonders.

"Buck's son." Athena says steadily. She doesn't want to let the truth slip. Not from her. That's for Buck and Eddie to talk about.

"Buck's son!?" The two adults look at Athena alarmed.

"And daughter." Athena says rushing to the other side. She takes Isabel Jr out carrying her to the ladies as well. There's a lot of cooing and pinching. She can see the twins smiling.

"He has a family." Pepa looks at Athena for answers. She knew the feelings her nephew had, may still have for him. And Chris she knows he's still upset with his father.

"Not married, just the twins. I would like to stay but I have to go. I also need to get to work." Athena explains as she grabs the twins backpacks and leashes.

"Didn't you just come back?" Pepa asks looking at Athena confused. Athena hands them over.

"Yes, and I'm cutting it real close. I didn't think it would take us this long. Call if you need anything or if the twins do." Athena says rushing back into her car. She drives out. She would have called one or the other but with twin she thought two is better than one. Athena hurries to the hotel to get their room and then she has to make her way to her house to get changed for work.

"Let's get you two inside." Pepa says holding Isabel Jr hand.

"Agua?" Damian wonders softly. The two women blink.

"¿Tienes sed?"(Are you thirsty?) Isabel senior wonders. Heart filling with warmth, the little boy reminding her of her grandson. So soft spoken.

"Si." Damian nods his head softly.

"¡Yo también!"(Me too!) Isabel exclaims. With a smile the women go to the kitchen to get two cups of water. Dropping their back packs on the couch.

They help the twins into a seat. Watching as they drink their water. As they drink a thought comes to Pepa. She doesn't know their names and Athena was to much in a rush to let them know of it.

"¿Cuáles son sus nombres?"(What are your names?) She asks.

"Isabel Diaz." Isabel Jr says with a giant smile on her face, her small pointer finger directed at herself.

"Isabel Diaz?" Pepa parrots looking at her mother who is equally as confused.

"Si." Isabel Jr nods with a smile, her cute curls bouncing in her pigtails. She looks at her brother expecting him to also respond. He looks at her. He shakes his head. "Su nombre es Damian Diaz."(His name is Damian Diaz.) She points to her brother.

"¿Quién es tu mamá?"(Who is your mama?) Pepa wonders because if their father is Buck then who is their mama? From what she knows both Sophia and Adrianna are in Texas still. And Buck has never meet them. Nor does he know what they look like.

"Mama?" Isabel Jr looks at them questioningly. Her nose scrunching up, similar to how Christopher does it.

"Si. Mama?" Isabel Sr wonders.

"Mama." Isabel Jr points. Looking they see she's pointing to the wall where a picture is. Pepa goes to it.

"¿Este?"(This one?) She wonders. Isabel Jr nods. Pepa hands over the frame. In it is Buck, Eddie and Chris smiling at the camera.

"Mama." Isabel puts her finger on Buck. "Papa." She puts her finger on Eddie. "¿Quién?"(Who?) She points to Chris looking at them in question. Pepa looks over to her mother. Both of their eyes are wide. Seeing their reaction Isabel Jr look at her brother who is drinking his water peacefully.

"Edmundo tiene preguntas que responder."(Edmundo has questions to answer.) Isabel Sr growls angrily.

Athena walks up the loft. She had barely made it to work. And she has the hotel room for her and the twins. It's just two beds, Buck had set it up. He said that's all they need.

She catches Hen and Eddie sitting at the table doing their own thing, Bobby in the kitchen working. Looks like he's cleaning up. Then they just ate.

"Hey Athena?" Hen says looking up from her book. Athena gives her a smile. Bobby twist around.

"Hey." He smiles walking to her. She gives him a quick kiss. "How was your work trip?" He asks.

Athena looks at Hen and Eddie. She wish Chim were also here so she can explain it straight away but this is as right a time as she can get. There's no waiting for him. Plus she already sent him a text.

"I'm sorry, I lied." Athena says. Eddie snaps his head up, because Athena doesn't lie. Hen stands up worried. Bobby eyes are wide. "It wasn't at a work trip." She tells them, taking it slow so they can hear everything she has to say.

"If you wanted to go on vacation all you had to do was say so." Bobby says. Athena shakes her head.

"It wasn't a vacation either. I... I found Buck." Athena says.

"You did?" Hen asks getting closer.

"Is he okay?" Eddie stands up joining them. Athena looks at Eddie. Buck had told her he didn't care he is dating but she knows it hurts him. Can't be shocked though. His anger with the lawsuit and add in the two years it's been. He moved on. But has Buck moved on? Athena doesn't think so. Not romantically anyway. Again it's not her place.

"He's fine. I went to see him." Athena says.

"Where did you find him?" Hen wonders. Athena look over at Bobby to see him staring.

"Technically May found him." Athena says. She pulls out her phone, she pulls up a picture of them both that Esperanza took of them, she wont show them the true picture but this should be proof enough that she saw him. "He posted on his Instagram and May saw it. I did a lot of digging and found out where he lives."

"And?" Hen wonders taking a quick look at the picture. Eddie takes it to look at it. He's taking in all the changes.

"He's in Peru again." Athena answers.

"All the way down there?!" Hen asks shocked.

"Yes. He felt tired of the treatment, Buck... didn't want to be around us anymore." Athena takes a look at Bobby to see how he's taken it he's calm so far.

"Is this his house?" Eddie asks motioning to the picture.

"Yes. It's very beautiful and the backyard opens to the ocean, a beach." Athena tells him.

"Why didn't you say anything?" Bobby finally says something.

"Buck left us, what about that makes you think he'd be happy to see us? I didn't want to hurt you. Plus I wasn't sure what would happen. So I went to his house. We talked." Athena says sternly.

"Is he coming back?" Hen asks hopeful. It's been quiet around here. Without Buck and Chim it's sad. No one to brighten the mood. And no one to crack jokes.

"No." Athena says, all three of their faces fall sadly. "He's made a life there... it wouldn't be fair to try and force him to come back." Hen nods at that. Eddie just frowns. Bobby looks sad. "I did get him to come and visit us." Athena says. Bobby and Eddie look at her.

"Really?" Bobby and Eddie look happy.

"Not everyone. He just wants to visit some of you." Athena says not happy about having to tell them who.

"Which ones of us?" Hen wonders.

"Hen, Karen, Denny, Chris, May and Harry." Athena lists, which seem like a longer list in her head.

"That's it?" Eddie asks very hurt.

"He said we are the only ones who weren't horrible to him. I don't know how long he'll stay but from what I've gathered it's at least a week. That's if he wants, he could cut his visit short." Athena points out.

"Should you be telling us?" Hen asks worried, can't imagine Athena telling them about Buck would sit well with the man himself.

"He said it was okay to tell you guys. He didn't want me or May to keep him a secret, didn't want us keeping secrets from you all." Athena answers.

"Sounds like him. Wouldn't want you to keep a secret for his sake." Hen smiles.

"Buck will be here in three days." Athena announces. "I just came to let you all know. I have to get to work." She says. She gives Bobby a kiss on the cheek, knowing he's hurting but they hurt Buck and now they are dealing with the consequences. She gives Eddie a look, seeing him upset. Hen placing a hand on his shoulder to calm him down.

She goes down the stairs. She's given them a warning about when he would be here. That's plenty of time to come up with way to apologize. She could always relay them to Buck. It's in their hands now.

Eddie parks his truck in front of his house. Turning the ignition off. He sits there. Eyes on the house.

Buck is okay.

And his head is filled with so many emotions he doesn't know which one to stay focused on. He's mad that Buck just left. Upset with himself because he was once again the cause for someone leaving (though he knows it wasn't just his fault, everyone played a part in this case). It's his fault someone left Chris again. Happy to hear that Buck is safe. Worried about the life Athena has said he built for himself over there. Annoyed Buck is just visiting and not permanently staying.

The feelings he had for Buck are not any better. He loved (loves?) Buck and was so mad at him for what he did with the stupid lawsuit but after a year of nothing he gave up on that. But should he? It wouldn't be fair to Ana. He likes her. She's perfect, even his parents approve of her. Their relationship is going really well, if not slowly, but he actually prefers it go slow. On the other hand... it's Buck.

With Chris in mind he wants to get on Buck's good side. Apologize. He knows where Buck is coming from. Bobby let his feelings get in the way so Buck went the legal way. Eddie blamed Buck without listening to his side. He knows he was mean. But he was frustrated. Buck apologized but Eddie would have liked it if the lawsuit never happened at all. But it did. Buck was in the right. Buck didn't take the money. And Buck doesn't want to see him but would like to see Chris.

That hurts.

All that love they had for each other gone. Eddie did that first with his attitude. He didn't even let Buck see Chris once. Buck saves his kid from a fucking tsunami and Eddie is mad at him for a lawsuit.

It sounds ridiculous.

What's more ridiculous is that Eddie knows if he asked Buck would have been there for Chris when he got nightmares again, fuck the rules, Buck never really followed them anyways.

And now he'll be here in three days. Enough to think about an apology and to tell Chris that. To warn him. If push comes to shove Eddie will ask Hen to take Chris to Buck when she sees him. Or Athena. He just wants Chris to be less angry at him. He doesn't tell him anything. Doesn't ask for anything besides Buck. He doesn't listen. Abuela and Pepa have been there to help. They use Buck's name to get Chris to listen. Eddie can't use Buck name like they can. He tried once and Chris got so mad, blamed him for Buck leaving. And Eddie couldn't deny that. He blames himself too.

Staying in the car does nothing though so he needs to collect himself and get out of here.

He grabs his duffel and exits his car. He sees the light from the living room, knowing Chris and Carla must still be up. It's getting darker, he was in his head in the car for a long while.

As he gets closer he hears a child squealing. He's heard Chris squeal before (with Buck) it didn't sound like that. Confused he makes his way to the door. He opens it easily knowing they would be waiting for him so it's not locked. He pauses at the living room, duffel dropping onto the floor. There Chris lay on the floor with two kids playing with him. One a girl and the other a boy.

The girl has on a cute dress. The boy in a shirt and shorts.

He stares confused. Where did these kids come from? And why are they in his house? He closes the door and makes his way to the kitchen to find Carla. His eyes are on the kids as they dogpile Chris who is laughing. It's good to see his son laughing. Looks like he's having fun.

He turns to pause once again, at the dining table is Carla, Abuela and Pepa. All three looks serious. "What's going on?" Eddie asks. Whatever the three ladies were speaking is cut and they all look at him. Eddie only stares like an idiot because he can't read their faces. Abuela looks mad but he can't tell. Pepa looks disappointed, but not really. And Carla is in between the two. Or maybe she's mad. He's never seen these women like this so he doesn't know. "What?"

"Don't what us." Pepa says standing up to cross her arms.

"What'd I do?" Eddie asks confused, not liking the attitude his aunt is giving him. It's making him feel like a child again, he doesn't like it. Plus she's never been like this with him. Pepa shakes her head.

"Kids." Abuela calls. Immediately all three kids come to her.

"Si?" The little girl wonders. "¿Qué pasa, abuela?"(What wrong abuela?) She asks tilting her head, similar to Chris. Actually the other two follow her. Now all three are tilting their heads to the same side. Eddie blinks because when did a family member have kids and he didn't know. How distant are they? But still why are they in his house?

"Preséntate."(Introduce yourself.) Pepa motion with her head to Eddie. The three look in sync towards him. Chris just stares at him. The other two look up at him then look shocked.

"Papa?" The girls calls him. The boy gets behind the girl. Eddie reels back. Papa? Who? Him? How?

"¿Cuál es tu nombre, princesa?"(Your name princess?) Pepa urges them.

The girls smiles wide. "Soy Isabel Díaz."(I am Isabel Diaz.) She introduces. Eddie eyes widen. Who? Maybe it's just a coincidence.

"Soy Damian Diaz."(I am Damian Diaz.) The boy says softly. If it wasn't quiet Eddie wouldn't have heard it. At this point Chris also looks as confused as him.

"She has the same name as you bisabuela." Chris says. Abuela smiles.

"I know mijo." Abuela lets out a chuckle.

"Muestra a papá a tu mamá."(Show papa your mama.) Pepa says sweetly at them. Isabela Jr nods, she runs back to the living room coming to them with a picture in hand.

"Mama." She says holding a picture up to him. Gently taking it, he looks at it. It's a picture of both kids and Buck. Seeing them all together he can see it. They have his eyes, nose and curls. All three look so happy.

"What?" Eddie asks breathless. Though what good is asking children? He hands Isabel Jr's photo back. She takes it with a grin, the same one as Buck. He feels like a building is falling on top of him.

"You tell us Edmundo." Abuela says crossing her arms, still seated but threatening.

"I... I'll be right back." Eddie says twisting around and going back out the door.

"Eddie, where-?" Carla starts but he doesn't stay long, he runs to his truck. He needs answers and he knows who has them. Why didn't she say it?

Bobby and Hen were there so it makes sense why she wouldn't. Still a heads up would have been nice. As fast as he can he goes through security and rushes to Athena's desk. He finds her sitting there working on paperwork. He comes to a stop heaving.

"Why didn't you tell me?" He shouts way too loud. Something he did not mean to do. Everyone looks at them. Athena looks at him. "The twins. Why didn't you say anything!"

"Edmundo Diaz you better calm down and not take that tone with me." Athena says firmly, more cop than motherly. Eddie paces as he takes a breath. He's too wired for this. His and Buck's children, they were out there the whole time. Buck was pregnant alone wasn't he? Oh shit, the twins have a life with Buck in Peru. Far away from them. Buck did this all alone?

"Fuck." Eddie grumbles. He takes a seat across from Athena who is watching him. It happened again. The mother to his kid was left to take care of them alone.

"Calm?" Athena asks.

"Yeah. Sorry. I just got home and they were there playing with Chris." Eddie says dragging a hand down his face.

"Sorry. I thought you worked later. I was going to pick them up after work." Athena says, that has Eddie looking at her.

"What?" He asks curiously, unsure what she is doing.

"Buck doesn't trust any of you so he wants me to take care of the twins till he gets here." Athena says pointed. And if that doesn't stab his heart.

"Where is he?" Eddie wonders, now unsure if Buck is really not here.

"Peru. Should still be working. I think. If not he's getting the house ready to be empty for a while." Athena answers honestly.

"Is he really staying a week?" Eddie asks because he's questioning everything now.

"He booked the hotel I'll be staying with the twin at. They said it was reserved for a week. I'm guessing that's how long he plans to stay with the twins." Athena tells him.

"He didn't say anything about them." Eddie points out, unsure if she knew that. He didn't know either.

"Eddie..." Athena let's out a huff. "I really was hoping this conversation would be for you and Buck to have not me." Athena says shaking her head.

"Well it's hard when my daughter," and if that isn't interesting to say out loud now, "has the same name as my abuela." Eddie says.

"Ah, I always know your grandma as abuela. It's sweet Buck named his daughter after her." Athena smiles. Eddie smiles that goofy smile he only does for Buck. "Should have thought something like that would happen. Kids are too honest sometimes."

"Yeah." Eddie smiles, then shakes out of it. "Why didn't he tell me?" He asks her, as if she would know.

Athena huffs, she turns her head to her computer. "I am only telling you what Buck told me so don't ask too much, I don't have all the answers." She gives him a pointed look. Eddie nods. "Buck didn't know he's a carrier."

"Fuck the Buckley's." Eddie says. Athena let's out a snort.

"My thoughts as well." Athena agrees. "He didn't know, and by the time he did he was gone. I don't think he was in the states when it happened. Plus how could he tell us? Eddie, you ignored him. Hell, you wouldn't let him see Chris who at this point is his first kid. Both of yours." She says. Eddie blushes.

"I was mad." Eddie tries to defend himself.

"We all were. But Buck apologized. And for us that wasn't enough. We can only hope our apologies are enough for him. Plus... Eddie whose side were you on? Your lover or captains?" Athena asks.

"Whose side were you on?" Eddie asks back. It's not like he's the only one who chose a side.

"My husbands. Without a doubt but in this case I should have chosen my son." Athena says sincerely. Eddie stares at her.

"Yeah." Eddie says defeated.

"I'm sorry. I thought I'd be done with work before you got off work. I wanted Buck to be the one to tell you. He said he didn't care if you knew about the twins, said it was time for you to know." Athena says watching him.

"Why didn't he call?" Eddie wonders.

"Chickened out. It's why I'm here with the twins. It was his idea. He said if he waited for the three days with the twins he knows he'd chicken out on getting those tickets. Make up an excuse." Eddie snorts at that, Athena gives him a smile. They all know Buck can't lie. He's too easy to read. Plus he doesn't like to lie. "He already had the twins passports he just never got the courage to do it. Before me going there he thought we all hated him. There was nothing really pulling him to us." Athena says sadly.

"I do not hate him." Eddie sits up looking at her.

"We never gave him something to show we weren't. With me taking the twins there's no excuse to not come here now. He's got to take the twin back with him right?" Athena raises an eyebrow at him.

"Three days."

"Three days." Athena nods.

"Thank for telling me. Sorry about my outburst." Eddie says getting up.

"Watch yourself next time." Athena threatens. Eddie nods. "I'll be here for an hour more, but I plan to get some clean clothes before I get the twins. I'll get the twins after."

"You're really staying at a hotel?" Eddie raises an eyebrow at that.

"Yeah. Buck booked it for him and the twins. He also doesn't want Bobby around them." Athena says.

"Really?" Eddie asks shocked.

"He's mad at Bobby." Athena says looking at the computer.

"He has a right to."

"I know. What Bobby did is unfair. Especially the treatment he received afterwards. Bobby has a lot to apologize for, but that's for Bobby to figure out." Athena looks at him from the corner of her eyes.

"Did you apologize?" Eddie wonders.

"Of course. I stayed at Buck's house for four days." Athena turns a head so he can see her eyes.

"Any tips on how to apologize?" Eddie asks hopeful.

"Nope. He wasn't that mad at me anyways. You and Bobby are different." Athena says looking back at her computer. Eddie grimaces.

"Thank anyways." Eddie says.

"Get home safely." She tells him over her shoulder.

Eddie nods and walks out the station much more calmly. Now he has to talk to his abuela and Pepa. Carla is also there. He shivers. That's not going to pleasant.

Thanks to traffic he get the time to think over what he's going to say. When he gets home he's ready for what is coming to him.

He walks in the house to see the kids watching a movie. There's a scent of dinner in the air. They must have just finished eating or they are waiting for it. He walks to see all three women setting the table up. So dinner is getting ready.

"So?" Abuela wonders seeing him first, her hip jutted and a hand placed on her hip.

"What do you want to know? I don't know everything so I may not have the answers." He warns them.

"The babies?" Pepa wonders first.

"Are mine." Eddie answer confidently, there's no way Buck would lie to Athena. Or lie in general about the twins father.

"We didn't know you and Buck were together." Abuela points out.

"We started a relationship after the firetruck. We never put a label to it though. We know we love each other. We weren't really telling people." Eddie explains.

"Buck is the mama?" Pepa wonders.

"Yes. Apparently he's a carrier." Eddie answers.

"Did not know before?" Carla looks confused.

"No. His parents never cared about him. They never gave him the time of day." Eddie frowns just at the thought of the Buckley's.

"Horrible." Carla shakes her head.

"Why is he gone?" Pepa questions.

"Well you know about the firetruck. Bobby, our captain didn't let him come back to work. Buck sued him. He won. But he didn't want money. He made a deal to return. We weren't nice to him." Eddie shortens.

"You too?" Abuela asks him, looking straight in his eyes. He knows there is no lying to her. Not that he would.

"Me too." Eddie nods, he can feel the heat of all three women. "I was mean to him. Tired of being treated that way Buck left. I guess he headed down to Peru. He learned he was pregnant. Has been living there since." Eddie summarizes.

"So... what are you going to do?" Pepa asks.

"About?" Eddie asks back.

"Ana. Are you going to tell her about the twins?" Pepa wonders.

"What about Buckito? Do you still love him?" Abuela questions. Eddie just stare at her because what is he going to do? Does he tell Ana about the twins? Does he still love Buck?

"Is Buckaroo okay?" Carla asks.

"He's fine. Speaking of," Eddie turns around to see Chris watching the movie with the twins. "Chris come over here." He calls. Chris stares at him for a long moment. Eventually he gets up from his siblings and walks to the adults. Chris stands next to Carla. "Buck will be here in three days." He announces.

"He will?" Carla questions.

"Bucky will come back." Chris stares at Eddie with those brown eyes.

"No." He doesn't want to give Chris false hope. "He's just visiting. He had work so he sent the twins before him." Eddie tells Chris. And his son is not happy. "Buck did tell Athena he wants to see you." Eddie adds hoping that will make him feel better.

"What about you?" Chris wonders.

"Buck doesn't want to see me. He's mad at me." Eddie says. Chris nods, as if agreeing with that decision.

"I can see Buck though?" Chris asks after a moment.

"Yeah. I'll talk to Hen and Athena about it." Eddie says.

"Thank dad." Chris smiles at him. A truly happy one. He rushes off to join the twins.

"Edmundo, what are you going to do?" Abuela wonders. The three women watching him.

And that's the question isn't it.

What does Chris understand of what happening? Does he know those two are his younger sibling? What will happen when Buck comes back and all his focus is on the twin? When he leaves back home?

It doesn't help that Buck doesn't want to talk to him.

Chapter Text

Chim watches from afar.

He's rooted in place. Nervous. It's been a long journey. Trying to find Maddie and there she is. Sitting at the beach. She doesn't seem to be here to have fun. She's just sitting there, eyes on the ocean. The sound of the waves crashing loud.

Chim shakes his head. He can't let fear hold him back. Especially after all this time. Now or never. He walks on the sand, joining her. Slowly he sits down.

They sit in silence. Just watching the ocean, the sun going lower. The words are stuck in his throat. Wanting to say everything but having nothing to say at the same time.

"You found me." Maddie says.

"I wasn't going to give up that easily." Chim says finding his voice. It helps she started it.

"I didn't think you'd be looking?" Maddie holds herself closer.

"Why not?" Chim looks confused.

"I hurt Jee."

"But you didn't."

"But she... I almost..."

"I was told you got her to the hospital to get checked. She was fine."

"Still I... I hurt her."

"But you didn't." Chim watches Maddie looking down, that's obviously going to go in circles. Chim let's out a breath. "I... care Maddie. A lot. I love you. I'm happy to start a family with you. I came to look for you, to talk and figure this out with you. But not anymore. I came in search to tell you..." Chim takes a deep breath. He sort of doesn't believe it himself. "Athena found Buck." That has Maddie turn to him. Her watery eyes searching. Looking to see if he's telling her the truth.

"Is he okay? Where'd she find him?" Maddie asks him. Chim shrugs his shoulder, he tilts his body to get his phone.

"Athena just sent a text saying she found him. There wasn't any other information." Chim answers opening his phone. He goes to the message only to pause, he has a text from Hen. He checks it out considering Buck has been found. "Buck will be there in three days." He reads out loud. Does that mean Buck wasn't in CA? Also how fast can he drive there. Then he spots the time stamp. She sent the text yesterday. "Oh, two days!" Chim exclaims getting to his feet. "I thought you should know about Buck. I'm going back to see him. Hopefully." Chim tell Maddie.

"Wait." Maddie stands with him. "I'll go with you." Maddie says.

"Really?"

"Yes. I know we have a lot to talk about but I also want to see Buck."

"Well we have a long road ahead head of us, we have the time. Let's go see Buck." Chim says with a smile. Maddie smiles back. Chim doesn't care that Maddie is only joining him for Buck, it doesn't change the fact they will talk about this. Though he doesn't know how she'll react to Jee being with them.

He hopes they make it in time.

Hen looks down at the picnic blanket she and Karen had set up. Denny off playing at the park. Karen fidgeting over the snacks they brought. Like Buck is one to be picky. But Hen is no better. It's been two years since they have spoken to him. He's like their younger brother. They should have acted like it. It should never have gotten to this point.

It's exciting though. They are seeing him again after so long. There will be so much to talk about. Both women know there is going to be a lot of laughing.

Hen takes a look around, trying to spot Athena car. She knows Athena will be here because the cop said she would. Glad about it because Bobby was odd the day before. He didn't say anything. Eddie as clueless as she is but something else has the army man's head. At that point she concluded it was Buck coming back. Those two have to rehearse their apologies.

She assumes Athena would be the one picking Buck up from the air port. Wonders how he's doing? He look healthy in the picture but she wants to know if his life, personal life, private as well is doing okay. How about mentally?

"You two found a good spot." Athena calls from behind them making the two jump and twist to look around. The spot is indeed good as they found a spot in the shade. The sun is not a problem. So they get a good look at Athena. Wearing a nice blouse and jeans.

"Who is this?" Karen asks seeing the leach Athena is holding. She follows it to a baby girl. Said girl is looking around.

"Isabel is her name. And this Damian." Athena points to the boy behind her. Karen and Hen tilt their bodies to see, only able to spot a mop of curly brown hair.

"How cute. Would you like a juice?" Karen asks the girl, obviously the boy is shy. The girl shakes her head.

"¿Jugar?" (Play?) Isabel points to the playground, big blue eyes on Athena.

"Go a head sweetie. But no wondering off." Athena says sternly. She unclips the leash for both her and her brother. Isabel grabs hold of her brother's arm and takes off. The three women watch the two go play. Eyes spotting Denny.

"Athena what are you doing with random kids?" Hen asks as Athena moves to join them on the blanket.

"Not random." Athena moves the backpack she had on, that neither of the two other women noticed, setting it aside. "The twins are Bucks'" Athena says.

"What?" Hen asks eyes growing the size of saucers. Eyebrows up over her glasses.

"You're kidding!" Karen says leaning forward, eyes wide.

"What about Buck?" Hen wonders looking around.

"He'll be here. I told him." Athena reassure them.

"Twins... wait, why are they here before Buck?" Hen wonders.

"Buck sent them with me. A bait if you will."

"You've been watching them?" Karen wonders.

"Yeah. Bobby doesn't know about them. I think we should keep it that way." Athena looks at them seriously.

"I thought Buck said no secrets?" Hen raises an eyebrow.

"That's one I'm keeping. Buck doesn't care but I don't want Bobby to know. It's enough to know Buck is here and doesn't want to see him. Also Buck doesn't want the twins near him anyway." Athena says looking at the twins.

"Oh. A double rejection." Karen says wincing in sympathy.

"If Buck doesn't want Bobby around them where have you been staying?" Hen looks at her friend.

"Bucks' hotel." Athena says.

"With the twins?" Hen asks, just in case she's understanding this wrong.

"Just until he gets here." Athena says looking around.

"That's why he's been weird at work." Hen connects. He must not know why Athena is gone. But what's up with Eddie? Is it Buck or something else. Maybe it's both. The same can be said for Bobby.

"I told him I have some errands to do for Buck. He doesn't question more." Athena says.

"Have you told Chim?" Karen wonders.

"Just a simple text. There's no need to tell him or Maddie anything more." Athena says.

"Sounds like a story." Hen points out.

"Not much of a story. Buck doesn't care but does not want to be around Chim or Maddie either."

"Even his sister?" Karen wonders.

"Why?" Hen asks because they all know Buck loves his sister. Talks about her all the time. They all know he doesn't hide anything from her. The two siblings are very close.

"Chim told him he's better gone and Maddie took Chim side during the lawsuit. I don't think they were welcoming after he dropped the lawsuit." Athena says.

"Yeah, I wouldn't be so forgiving either." Karen says, a frown on her face.

"Umm... I texted Chim Buck will be in LA today." Hen says worried.

"I don't think that matters. He would have been on his way after my text or he's looking for Maddie to tell her." Athena considers.

"I hope Buck doesn't get mad." Hen says worried. She doesn't want to upset Buck when he's just gotten back.

After a long pause of watching the kids play it's broken. "So who is the baby momma?" Karen wonders, looking at the twins playing. Hen snaps her attention to her.

"Karen." Hen calls her wife.

"They are so cute I want to know." Karen explains herself.

"Thanks." Buck says. The three women scream turning their bodies to face him. He's squatting there with aviator sunglasses. He's in dark jeans and a white short sleeved button up. Buck throws his head back, giving the loudest laugh any woman has heard from him in a while. "That was amazing." Buck cackles. He takes his shoes off in order to crawl to sit on the blanket with them.

"Buck!" Hen screams his name.

"Hello Hen. Hi Karen." Buck smiles at them. He then takes off the sunglasses. Revealing those ocean blue eyes of his.

"We've missed you." Karen pulls him into a hug. She holds onto him lightly, rubbing his back. Buck tightens his hold on her. It's been so long he's going to relish in it. Then Hen pulls him into one. Again he holds on tightly. Hen pulls back to get a good look at him.

"How have you been?" Hen asks.

"I'm good. Really good." Buck smiles.

"Buck we hope you know how sorry we are." Karen says truthfully. Her eyebrows furrowed together.

"No need. You guys were the nicest. You didn't do anything." Buck shakes his head.

"Nicest. What did people do?" Athena questions him.

"Just some childish bullying." Buck shrugs.

"Like?" Athena wonders with a raised eyebrow.

"Mama!" Two shouts cut him off. He looks over to see the twins running towards him. Buck opens his arms, like expected they jump to him. He pulls them tight. A large smile on his face.

"Mis bebes." He kisses their heads. Then he moves to look at them. "¿Fuiste bueno para Atenea?" (Were you good for Athena?) They both nod in unison. Ignoring the stunned looks from the couple.

"Muy."Isabel nods.

"Mucho." Damian says. Both of them smiling. Karen and Hen coo at the adorableness of them.

"Did they behave?" Buck wonders looking at Athena for confirmation. Athena smiles.

"Like most toddlers." She says.

"Were they too much?" Buck wonders.

"Buck there's two. That's double the trouble." Athena says. Buck laughs. Doesn't he know it.

"Buck?" Denny asks coming closer slowly. Like Buck is sleeping lion.

"Hey Denny. You've grown." Buck says. Denny smiles getting closer.

"I'm trying to get taller than my mom's." Denny says standing as straight as he can get.

"I'd say you're getting there." Buck says watching amused.

"Are these your babies?" Denny wonders looking down at the twins.

"Yup." Buck nods, a proud smile on his face.

"Hola!" Isabel happily says and loud.

"Hola." Damian says more silent. Pressing himself closer to Buck.

"Would you like to play with me?" Denny asks.

"¡Yo lo hago!"(I do!) Isabel raises her hand, then looks at her brother.

"Quédate con mamá."(Stay with mama.) Damian answers.

Isabel just nods, turning back to Denny. "¿Puedes- swing?"(Can you swing?)

"Uh... do you want me to push you on the swing?" Denny guesses.

"Si!" Isabel smiles.

After the two go far enough Damian jumps into Buck arms. "Extraño a mamá."(I miss mama.) Damian says rubbing his face into Buck chest. Tiny arms wrapping around Buck shoulders. Legs wrapped around Buck hips even though he's sitting. Buck holds him close.

"Yo también te extrañé. Y a Isabel."(I missed you too. And Isabel.) Buck kisses the top of his head.

"Should have guessed, you live in Peru." Hen says, wondering why she didn't think he'd know Spanish.

"So you're the mom?" Karen asks.

"Carrier." Buck points to himself with one hand, the other rubbing Damian's back.

"Ah, so who is the baby daddy?" Karen wonders. Hen looks at Buck curiously. Buck smiles. Unsure if he should says.

"Eddie knows." Athena tells him. Buck turns to her. Karen and Hen also look at Athena.

"He does?" Buck asks stupidly.

"Abuela and Pepa were watching them for me. Eddie got home earlier than I did. He stormed my desk for answers." Buck cringes as Athena explains casually.

"Was he mad?"

"He was a lot of things. He just learned he has twins, the same day he learned you're okay." Athena says.

"Is... he still mad?" Buck wonders.

"No. He just has a lot of feelings." Athena says.

"Wait Eddie is the baby daddy?" Karen wonders.

"Yeah." Buck answers honestly.

"When?" Hen asks.

"Fire truck bombing. Lawsuit ruined that." Buck says. "I don't think I'm ready to see him." Buck shakes his head. Just thinking about it makes him want to cry and go in a cold sweat. Athena sees the way his hands tremble.

"No one's going to force you." Athena reassures him.

"I'm owed some money." Hen says. Buck looks at Hen. He sees her serious face. He smiles rolling his eyes. Of course they made a bet. In retrospect they were not subtle, it just took a while for themselves to see it.

"Does it still count if we're not together?" Buck wonders. Hen takes a moment to think it over.

"Yes. The bet is when you got together. It's not like we bet how long the relationship will last." Hen says seriously. She will get her money.

"Chris wants to see you." Athena says, having waited.

"And Eddie is okay... with that?" Buck checks.

"He is. Chris wants to see you so he asked if we can talk to you about it." Hen adds.

"Just tell me where to go and I'll be there." Buck then looks at Athena. "Does Chris know about the twins?"

"He met them." Athena tells him. Buck shakes his head.

"No I mean, does he know they are his siblings?" Buck ask again.

"I want to say he does but I'm unsure if that's the case." Athena answers.

"We can always ask for you. It's not like you are meeting him today." Karen calm him down.

Then they move on to more interesting topics.

Eddie stares at his phone, his leg thumbing impatiently, as he wait. He doesn't know why he's nervous, it's not like he's meeting Buck but still... today Chris will be seeing him.

It all came together nicely. The day Buck was there Chris was antsy. Wanting to go see him. But Eddie didn't even know where Buck is. And they both knew Buck is mad at him so it wouldn't do any good to just show up. He text Hen about it.

With her help they set the date. For today, the next day. It works out because he's at work and Chris has no school. Abuela has been staying with him. During the wait for Buck Athena dropped the twins off with Abuela because she had work. Eddie had been there to help watch them.

His heart squeeze looking at them. They are like the perfect mix of both him and Buck. It makes him think. If Buck didn't leave? If Eddie wasn't an asshole? He also is amazed Buck has taken care of them by himself. Twins are a handful.

So now he sat at the firehouse loft, at the table waiting. Abuela is with Chris. Buck will be showing up to the house to visit him. Abuela was very happy to wait with Chris, giving Carla a break. But Carla showed up anyway. She also wanted to see him.

Before leaving all three were happy and excited as they wait. Eddie smiled as he left for work but sitting here now he's nervous and he doesn't know why. He's happy that Chris was so smiling in the morning. And Abuela even promised that she'd send him a video. Why the nerves?

Hen walk towards him. She can see it all on his face. "What's got you so nervous?" She wonders sitting down.

"Don't know just am." Eddie answers with a shake of his head. He can feels his hands clamming up. He's been wanting Buck to see Chris for so long why is he this jittery?

Hen takes a look around. Most of the others are lounging around, she doesn't care about them, who she does care is Bobby. Standing in the kitchen getting their breakfast done. Hen leans closer to Eddie. "I saw the twins. You and Buck make beautiful kids." she whispers. Eddie whole body freezes.

"You know?" Eddie whispers back looking at Bobby facing his back towards them. Hen nods.

"Buck isn't hiding it. Neither is your daughter." Hen smirks at him. Eddie gives a small smile back. Then he sits up remembering something.

"You saw him right?" Eddie asks in a normal volume.

"Yeah. The three of us saw him." Hen says.

"And?"

"I don't know what to say." Hen looks away with a shrug. "He's good. Glowing. He's happy. He hasn't changed."

"He's made his life." Eddie says remembering Athena mentioning that.

"Yup." Hen agrees. Neither knowing that Bobby had listened in when they started talking in normal volume.

Eddie think about that. Buck is happy without them. Buck always finds a way doesn't he? He lost his family so he found another one. He started one. Didn't look back. Nothing much to look back at.

His phone blinks and Eddie picks it up without thinking twice. This is what he was waiting for. Buck is there.

It's a video. Like abuela told him. He opens it.

It starts with the door, and it's getting closer. Opening the door reveals the twins. Smiling at abuela. They give their greeting. Abuela moves to the side to let them in. She moves the camera to show Buck walking up the three steps to them. Abuela calls for him causing him to light up. They give their hugs and catches up. In Spanish. Then she moves the camera around leading him in as she closes the door. Then she rushes forward around him to get the front of Buck. He stands by watching the twins and Chris interact. Buck watches them with soft eyes, love in them. Eddie wonders if it's because of the twins or because the twins are with Chris. Then Chris looks over to pause. His whole body freezing. Then the loudest "Bucky!" comes from his phone speaker. Chris runs to him and Buck is opening his arms. He's jumping in his arms. And Buck catches him. Holding him tight, kissing his hair and swaying gently with him. Chris is wrapping his small body around Buck as much as he can. The video ends with the twins walking up to them. He watches as Damian raises his arms up wanting to be carried. Then the video starts again.

Eddie takes a deep breath as he sets his phone down. His eyes watery. Hen sits back, having leaned forward to watch as well. Eddie rests his head down on the table, the cold wood calming his nerves. "Fuck." Eddie grumbles into the wood.

Hen only pats his shoulders.

"Did we-!" someone shouts. Eddie sits up, all attention goes to the stairs and they hear banging, someone is stomping their way up. Not long Maddie and Chim appear, Jee in his arms. The two are looking around. They look like they are in a rush. Which they are. "Where is he?" Chim wonders.

"Did we miss him?" Maddie asks impatiently.

Hen shrugs her shoulders. "I don't know where he is."

"You said he'd visit." Chim says confused.

"And he is. He's here, in Cali. I just don't know where he is at the moment." Hen says, stilted and a bit standoffish. Eddie looks at Hen questioningly. Buck's at his house? What?

"Have you seen him? Is he okay?" Maddie wonders.

"I have and he's good." Hen answers simply. Maddie looks at Eddie.

Eddie shakes his head. "He doesn't want to see me." Maddie gives him a sympathetic face. Eddie does catch the way Hen eyebrow twitches as that.

"How are you both?" Hen asks.

"We talked on our way here." Chim says.

"I have PPD. I've been getting it taken care of." Maddie tells them. 

"Good, maybe now you'd stop running away." Hen says staring at her. Maddie eyes widen.

"Hen." Chim calls but it's drowned out by the alarm ringing.

They all run to get their turnouts then jumping into the engine. As they are seated and driving off. Eddie looks Hen. "What was that about?" Eddie wonders.

"Had a long talk with Buck yesterday. We talked about Chim and Maddie. Buck doesn't want to see them. Or go near them." Hen says.

"But didn't Buck run away?" Ravi wonders.

"Buck didn't run away, we drove him away." Hen glares at Ravi. "Plus Maddie has a habit of running off. When we told him he wasn't shocked. Though Athena had already told him. He shrugged it off. Said he's use to her leaving him. It happened when he was young, then when he got older. He said she never chooses him. He doesn't want to see either of them." Hen explains. She stares at Eddie for a long moment before taking her phone out. Not a second later does Eddie's phone vibrate. He checks it to see it's Hen. He opens it.

Hen: Buck also said he doesn't want the twins to meet her. 

Eddie stares at the message for a long while. That's shocking.

Eddie: Why? 

Eddie text back. 

"Doesn't he want to meet Jee?" Eddie asks.

"He does, but not at the moment. He's focusing on himself." Hen says. Eddie nods. Himself and the twins she means.

After a moment of silence she asks, "have you worked on your apology?" She asks Eddie.

"Still am. It's hard when he doesn't even want to see me." Eddie says.

"For Chris, you better work on it." Hen tells him.

Hen: And the twins. Hen texts, then adds more. What are you going to do about them when Buck goes back?

"I know. He was very happy about it this morning. But I don't know what to do. I can apologize to Buck and we can talk again but what is that going to change? Buck lives in Peru. By the end of this week he'll be gone." Eddie says.

By the time they get back the two are gone. Chim and Maddie must be in a hotel themselves. it had been months since he went to follow Maddie so no one expects him to still have his apartment. Eddie is happy they are gone. He may not have pleasant. Hen isn't any better. Eddie caught the way she looked around as if making sure those two are gone. Hen relayed to them, openly, about what Buck has been told. It wasn't all Chim but the man's words hurt to hear.

The more he hears the more he understands why Buck left.

As the day goes by abuela sends him pictures. Chris is having the time of his life. His smile is so bright. So happy. Eyes bright as he look at Buck. And Buck is looking back just as happy and bright. His eyes never loosing the love. It grows when he is watching Chris playing with twins. They seem to be filling the day. Cooking lunch. Going to the playground. Arcade. Movie. Trying to make up for the last two years.

The few videos he gets are enough to make him cry. He shows Hen some. Who shows her own picture she's taken from the park. Eddie gets overwhelmed.

And as he lays down in his bunk his mind wont relax. All he can think about is his family, yes his family. Buck had become his family as soon as he meet Christopher. More so when he introduce Carla to him. Buck has been by his side through everything. And he couldn't be there for Buck. He wasn't there for him. He's making the same mistakes.

Eddie finds himself in the loft. Sitting on the couch. Eyes looking down at Buck Instagram. There's two pictures. The most recent is a picture of the LA skyline. With a caption of 'visiting home'. The one before that is the first post in two years. The one May must have found. There are two pictures. One with Buck and Damian. The second is with Buck and Isabel. All three are smiling into the camera.

"Can't sleep?" Hen asks. Eddie looks at her. She nods. His face says it all. She walks to him.

"I miss him too." Eddie says looking at the pictures. Eddie taking note of the fact Buck profile is now set to private. Hen takes a seat next to him. Angling her body to face him.

"We know he's okay." Hen says. To reassure him. After two years it's not unbelieving to start thinking the worst.

"It's not the same." Eddie shakes his head. His eyes start watering. Taking a deep breath he starts talking, "I promised I'd do better. Try harder. Shannon... she wanted a divorce. When she came back I promised to try. Be there like she wanted. Buck helped me. And then she asked for a divorce after a pregnancy scare. I was ready. This time I was ready." Eddie takes a breath. Rubbing his shaky hands onto his pants.

"Then the accident." Hen points out.

"Yeah. I was a mess. Buck helped again. Like he always does." Eddie smiles, a soft thing at the memory of a soft but determined Buck taking care of both Eddie and Chris. "I... deep down, after talking more with Shannon, I knew, we both did. Our marriage was broken, and I don't think a therapist or counseling would have fixed it. We were to young and moved too fast. I was mad at her. She was going to leave again. But Buck was there and I felt like if he was there everything will be okay. He handled Chris way better than I could, than I do." Eddie shakes his head. At the time he couldn't believe it.

"Well you are the strict parent while Buck is the emotional one." Hen says with a smile. Eddie chuckles.

"True." Eddie smiles. "He is so good at talking to Chris, getting him to open up. And listening."

"He's like that with you too." Hen tells him. Eddie doesn't deny it.

"Yeah. He is. It's thanks to him I didn't break down after Shannon. I was mad at her, for the divorce, for leaving us in the first place, for trying to leave again. Then she died and I... I couldn't be mad at a dead women. Especially one people thought was still my wife. The papers were signed just never processed. A day more and it would have been official. I was also sad. Our love... it stopped being romantic long before Chris was born but she was still important to me."

"She's Chris mother, she always will be." Hen tells him.

"Buck was there through it all, smiling away. The bombing helped open my eyes. The way he lay there still. I thought I lost him. I was scared, it was so different from seeing Shannon. With her I didn't want her to leave, with Buck I was scared about living a life with out him." Eddie clenches his hands, the memory of it has him shaking. He wanted to do something but there wasn't anything he could do.

"You knew then." Hen looks at Eddie. To find out you love someone like that after already loosing someone, the emotions Eddie had at the time must have been hard to navigate through.

"I didn't know what to do about it. Then Buck moved and I was relieved. He's alive but do I tell him? I didn't know what to do. But he needed to focus on recovering so I kept shut. Then he coughed up blood and I couldn't keep it in. The thought of loosing him scared the shit out of me." Eddie quickly wipes a tear.

"Did Buck say it back?" Hen knows something happened. The twins are proof. Buck didn't talk about it and they didn't ask. They didn't want to upset him.

"Yeah. His smile... I'd never seen it like that. Then he cried of happiness." Hen laughs at that. "It was the same day of the tsunami." Hen sucks in a breath. "I thought I'd lost them both. When they were cleared Buck came home with me. I needed to feel him."

"I get that. Some calls are... I need Karen's touch." Hen pats his shoulder.

"Buck was afraid after, not just about water but about being left with Chris. He blamed himself as if he caused the tsunami. I made sure to tell him it's not and Chris is the safest with him. I still believe that. It took a while for Buck to get that. It felt nice, Buck was always the one telling me I'm a good father so it felt nice giving back." Eddie lays back in the couch. Nice to talk about it, he couldn't as no one knew about him and Buck and no one asked.

"Every parent feels like that Eddie. Me and Karen do too. It's bad when we feel it at the same time. But we love Denny too much to give him up and we love him as much to try." Hen shifts to sit comfortably on the couch. Mirroring Eddie.

"Thanks. I honestly don't know what to do when Buck leaves. I don't know what I'm going to do when I get back home tomorrow... or later today?" Eddie frowns. Chris might not be happy about seeing him come back home.

"Your apology? Write a letter so Athena can give it to him." Hen nudges him.

" 'ts a good idea, but I don't know what to say." Eddie rests his head back on the couch. Eyes closing. "I have so much of it. I said some horrible shit at the grocery store. I didn't treat him any better when he came back. I was so mad. I ruined what was the best relationship, platonic or romantic, and I don't know what to say."

"Tell him everything then. Two years ago, one thing after the other happened. Neither of you had gotten a moment to process. Tell him what you are doing now to fix it. Maybe talk to Frank."

"I will. I might asks to change our next appointment to sometime earlier."

"You've been seeing him?" Hen looks over to him, stunned.

"Yeah. After we learned Buck was gone. I was already going after Bobby told me but I decided to stick with it. Athena makes sure I go too."

"I thought you had been to open during this talk. Has it helped?" Hen turns her eyes to the ceiling of the firehouse.

"More than I thought it would. He helped me understand why I blew up the way I did. Why I was so mad at Buck."

"Why were you?"

"I was mad at Shannon but didn't want to be, not at a dead women, so I locked that anger away. Then the lawsuit happened and I couldn't talk to Buck, Chris was having nightmares again and that anger I locked away was channeled to him."

"I'm glad you're seeing Frank. Buck doesn't deserve that."

"I know."

"I think, you don't have to listen to me it's just a thought, but get an appointment with Frank as soon as you can. Sooner the better. Maybe ask Frank for help in your apology."

"That sounds like a good idea."

"Of course. Now do you have any other pictures?" Hen wonders.

"Is that why you came up to me?" Eddie teases with a smile but he still pulls out his phone.

"50/50." Hen shrugs. "Karen is obsessed with them. She is in love with little Isabel." Hen says.

"She is adorable."

"You're biased."

"And for good reason." Eddie grins. Hen shakes her head. A smile growing on her face.

Chapter Text

Eddie thumbs his thumb against the steering wheel.

Besides him sat Ana. Dressed nicely. In a blue sun dress and matching flats. She had done her hair in a half updo. It won't be the first time she's meeting his family, but this is a family gathering so more extended family will be here. She has met his abuela and tia Pepa. Once. it was a short greeting. Then she talked to his parents. She talked to them most of the time. They seem to like each other.

"Where's Chris?" Ana wonders, Eddie jumping in his seat at her breaking the silence.

"Oh, I dropped him off at abuela's first." Eddie answers keeping his eyes on the road.

"The twins?" She asks looking into the back. Not seeing any signs of the car seats.

"What about them?" Eddie asks confused.

"How have they been?" Ana asks.

"Good." Eddie answers, thinking the twins are very happy to be with their mom again. Athena had mentioned they were antsy about Buck not being there. He understands why they would be, this might be the first time they have been away from him for so long.

"And Chris has been okay? I know when children all of a sudden have a sibling they get emotional. I'm sure it's tricky with two siblings at once." Ana points out, sounding worried.

"Ah... no actually." Eddie blinks. He did not know that. But he knows it does happen. He can see that might happen with Chris, especially since he's use to having Buck to himself. Lucky for him that is not the case here. "Chris seems really taken with them. He's happy." Eddie says, thinking about the videos abuela had sent a few days ago. Chris misses Buck and he enjoyed having the twins around. Even more excited after learning the twins are his siblings. Eddie had a sit down with Chris to make sure he understood what that meant. By the end Chris was looking at Eddie like he was the child who didn't understand anything. Chris did wonder how Buck is the mommy. Eddie didn't mind explaining it in a child friendly way, it's the most they've talked in two years. It felt good.

"Oh. I didn't... he seems so... unhappy, I thought he'd be unhappy with this new change as well." Ana looks at him confused. Eddie cringes. Eddie knows Chris' problem is with him, and he's taken it out on anyone Eddie brings in. Eddie knows Chris does not like being around Ana. Eddie has been hoping he'd come around. Still it hasn't happened. He does not let Chris stay alone with Ana.

"No. Chris is usually very happy. He's just upset with me. Hopefully it gets better soon." Eddie says it like he's praying. He wants Chris to be like he was. It's like he's got a teenager. A teenager in their rebellious phase, that sill likes cookies and coloring. Chris just stares at him and Ana. His arms are always crossed as well.

Not long after they are turning to the street abuela's house is on. They pass by, catching the front door wide open, cars parked around and as close as they can get. Eddie finds a spot, they will have to walk up the street to get to abuela's. He helps Ana out. Leading her forward. A hand on her lower back.

They walk in to smell food being cooked. They can hear music being played, drowned out by people talking. Eddie leads her to the kitchen where he knows his abuela is. And just like he thought she is making something on the stove.

"Abuela." Eddie calls loud enough to be heard, her head snapping to him. She gives him a smile.

"Eddito!" She calls happily, showing her dirty hands, not able to hug him. He smiles walking over to kiss her cheek. Knowing his abuela is a hugger. A kiss from him though is good enough.

"Hola señorita." Ana smiles, stepping up next to Eddie. Abuela stares at her. Then at Eddie, who is also staring at her. Abuela looks at her again.

"Hello." Abuela deadpan, turning back to the stove. The women knows she speaks English. They met before. She is more than willing to speak English.

The silence turns awkward, and it stretches. Though Abuela does not care. Eddie looks at his grandmother then at Ana. Unsure what to do.

"Abuela, I got the ice!" A voice calls from the front door. A shiver goes down Eddie spine. He hasn't heard that voice in so long. it helps it's not coming from a video, he's actually hearing it in person and not through his phones shitty speakers. His head turns to Buck who walks past them. He's wearing jeans, a light pink short sleeve polo, one bag of ice over his shoulder the other held at his hip. He walks pass without giving them a look.

Eddie stares, and he knows he is because it's Buck in the flesh. His skin has a slight tan to it. His curls are out, looking soft. Eyes are as blue as he remembers. Eddie can see how pregnancy has widen his hips, cinching his waist a bit. And his chest, those buttons are straining. His biceps are large, he's obviously been working out. His legs are as long as he remembers, though his thighs have meat on them. His mind placing who he remembers over the Buck in the present. Two years is long.

And he knows Buck has changed. He saw the picture Athena had of them together. The shorts and tank top Buck wore. A smile on his face. It's different seeing it in person. There's no trick. What he sees is reality.

A hand on his bicep takes him out of whatever his mind was doing. He looks over to see Ana looking visibly confused. Eddie looks back to see Buck and abuela have gone from English to Spanish. Talking a bit on the fast side thanks to their enthusiasm. He catches something about food. His abuela smiling at Buck. Eddie knew his grandmother had taken to Buck. He just hasn't seen how much. She's as happy as Chris is.

"BUCKY!" Chris screams rings out, but it doesn't stop the talking in the background. Buck snaps his head towards the back door. Chris already walking as fast as he can, crutches clanking against the floor loud. Seeing the young boy Buck beams, moving to meet him halfway. Arms open wide. Eddie steps a bit back to let them have their moment. He didn't think Buck would be here, not with him being here. When he had dropped off Chris, he told his abuela he'd be back. He didn't see who was here.

"Superman!" Buck calls, Chris throwing himself into Buck arms. Smile large and wide. Buck twirls him around as Chris giggles, wrapping himself around Buck once again. Chris looking like he's trying to merge himself with Buck. The other man doesn't seem to mind. Buck holds him close. Laying kisses on his head. Chris leans into them. Chris looking content with the affection. Or he's just happy Buck is there.

He had talked to Chris about not seeing Buck as much. Eddie doesn't know what Buck has planned for the rest of his stay here, he didn't want Chris to get his hopes up either.

Ana snaps her head to Eddie, about to ask who he is and point out the worry she has only for the words to die in her throat. Eddie staring with the softest eyes she's ever seen on him, gentle smile on lips. Abuela face looking about the same. Both silently watching with smiles on the two face. Even Chris is happy something she's never seen on the boy. He hardly interacts with either of them. Always staying in his room. She is a bit worried about that but right now he seems fine. Like his age.

"Now, go." Abuela pushes Buck, happy. "Don't forget the ice." She reminds him. Buck looks at her, Chris still in his arms.

"Okay." Buck smiles, picking up one bag of ice, the other arm supporting Chris. Buck looks over to Eddie giving the man a silent nod, face calm, smile gone but otherwise he doesn't talk. His face neutral. Eddie watches him leave out the back door. Chris staring at him, deadpan, something Eddie has gotten use to. Eddie lets out a sigh. Both of them are not happy with him. He really needs to fix that.

"Hola Buck!" Someone calls.

"Buck you're back!"

"It's good to see you Buck!" Eddie smiles to himself. Before the lawsuit Eddie had brought Buck around to a lot of his family gatherings so they know him. They had asked about him. Buck fit in so well with his family. But that could just be Buck. That man gets along with everyone. The opposite of Eddie. Buck likes getting along with everyone. Eddie doesn't care.

Abuela smile turned serious. She stares at Eddie. "Eddito, help me with the ice." Abuela orders and Eddie instantly picks the other bag off the floor, though he questions the sudden mood change. With Buck and Chris is was all bubbly and sunshine. Abuela turns the stove off, finished with what she's doing. Eddie walks up to her. "You leave Buckito alone, understood?" She warns him staring up into his eyes, voice low. Brown meeting brown. They stare at each other.

"Yes Abuela." Eddie answers, knowing that tone. She's warning him. She doesn't need to though, he knows he shouldn't get close to Buck. After all Eddie hasn't apologized to the other man. He also didn't look like he wanted to talk to Eddie. He is not going to push. Eddie is in no place to.

"Good. Now put the ice in the sink." She orders. Eddie doing as told.

"Can I ask-?" Eddie starts, curious to what Buck is doing here.

"I asked him to come here." She says as a matter of fact. Eddie doesn't question further. He doesn't need to. His grandma wanted Buck here and Buck is here. Which makes butterflies fill his stomach. If Buck is here then so are the twins. Which must be why Buck came. For the twins to be around and meet family. Or for Chris. Eddie doesn't care either way, the fact is Buck is here.

After filling the sink with ice, then adding beers Eddie leaves. Ana already gone. He finds her talking to some family. Easily his attention goes to Buck who still has Chris in his arms. His son happily talking about something his small hands moving around. It hits Eddie like a brick that Chris talks like Buck. Tilts his head like Buck. Scrunches his nose like Buck.

Eddie had no clue. Was Buck that ingrained in their life? Yes. That's why he fell in love with the man in the first place.

One of the things he fell in love with is Buck kindness. They had not gotten off on the wrong foot but instantly after Buck went far and beyond to help him. Helping him talk to Bobby and letting Chris hang with them. Then introducing him to Carla. She has saved him more than once. All thanks to Buck.

But he's also kind to strangers. That kindness shows his compassion. Especially with people they meet on calls. How he calms them down. Reassures them. How far he's willing to go to help and save them. The way he talks to them, all sweet and soft.

The way he interacts with kids always makes a warmth grow in his gut. He never talks down to kids. It was shocking to see when he meet Chris. He thought about the weird and goofy questions Chris asked. Even answering the question seriously. He also listens to Chris. Buck also never treated his son any differently.

He's also goofy. Most adult are afraid, he's included in that, to be childish or goofy. Buck doesn't care. He cracks jokes with Chris. He orders milkshakes. Like eating candy. Gets just as excited about things as Chris does. Whether that be something they are doing together or watching a movie. Then Buck talks about it with Chris for hours.

Like now, making Chris smiles and laugh by blowing into his stomach, rocking him back and forth. Damian raising his arms to get held up. Buck doesn't let Chris go, just letting Damian join them. Eddie even spots Isabel jr running to them. Easily climbing up Buck back like a tree. Buck says something to Chris who nods. Buck lets Chris go but he holds on, Buck reaches behind himself to grab Isabel. Holding all three kids in his arms.

Screams of laughter and giggles escape them, even Buck. Everyone gives the four smiles but continue their talks.

And Chris sticks to Buck. Not leaving his side. Not even as Buck gets some food for himself and the twins. He just gets a plate for Chris too. The twins playing with some of the other kids. Still Chris stays with Buck. The whole time the two are talking.

And he doesn't stop. Not even as he eats. Buck having to remind him to eat as he watch the twins eat. Buck doesn't eat until after the twins are fed. Once done the two run back. Well, Isabel does, Damian is dragged away.

Even when Buck is talking to others Chris is hanging out with him. Stuck to his side. Chris doesn't want to let him go. And he knows Buck won't be here long. He can't fault his son for his actions. He'd be the same as well.

Eddie also spends the whole time he's there talking for a while. If he's not catching up with family members answering their questions about the twins, he's watching Buck and the kids. Isabel Jr does come over to him. Happily calling him 'papa'. He's a bit prideful at everyone cooing at her. With her cute pink outfit. Her large round blue eyes and curly brown hair pulled into a ponytail that's come undone with all her running around. Staring at others with a large smile. Greeting everyone with said smile. She's also talkative. Even if she does say some words wrong in Spanish. Even mixing English in there. His daughter is adorable.

Damian is the opposite but no less adorable. He's very quiet and soft spoken. Sticking to Buck. Or plays nice with the other kids. He doesn't talk a lot but he does play along well with them. He gets very shy around the adults. Hiding behind Buck or abuela. He's got equally as large blue eyes. His curls are exactly the same style as Bucks but the same light brown as his sister. Matching with his sister, and Buck, a pink shirt and jeans.

Soon, or maybe not considering they all stay for hours, it starts getting dark. The sun setting. Chris trading with Damian. Buck carrying him in his arms. Damian resting his head on Buck shoulder, hand fisting the shirt. Chris playing with his sister.

Eddie stays away from Buck, like he was warned.

Eddie feels like he looks away for just a second, though he's didn't expect it to happen at all either. Talking to family member about his parents and sister. He's about to say something when a cry catches their ears.

"¡Suéltame! ¡Bruja! ¡Pervertido!" (Let go! Witch! Pervert!) Hearing the voice cry in Spanish loudly Eddie twists his whole body, ready to jump in at his daughter's cry. Eddie pauses, mouth open is stunned silence. Eddie doesn't know what he's looking at.

Ana stood there struggling to hold Isabel Jr, the baby girl twisting, kicking and swinging her arms. The ponytail now gone, fully fallen off letting her curly hair free. Ana looking overwhelmed. Eddie pales when he sees Isabel kick Ana in the chest. For a second worried Isabel will be dropped. Ana holds tight.

Eddie rushes forward looking around for Buck. Everyone is starting to stare and Isabel is crying. "Ana!" He calls, she looks at him hopeful. "What are you doing?" He asks reaching to take hold of his daughter who wants to get away from her.

"I thought I could gather the children. It's getting late so I thought I'd get them to the car, to go home." Ana says wincing as Isabel pulls on a lock of hair, crying louder. Eddie pauses.

What? Why would she do that? And why Isabel? Plus it's not late why would they leave now?

"MAMA!" Isabel screeches as loud as a banshee. It's silent.

"Isa!" Buck shouts. Eddie turns to see him running towards them. Damian hanging in Buck arm, his back against Buck front. Buck arm wrapped around his middle. Damian arms held out and wet. Buck must have been helping him in the bathroom.

"¡Mamá! ¡La bruja! ¡La bruja! ¡Ayuda!"(Mama! The witch! The witch! Help!) Isabel holds her arms out, face red and large tears falling. Buck reaches immediately with his free hand out to take her, his face worried. She clings to him, face into his neck. Cries turning into hiccups. Buck watch his baby girl before turning his attention to Ana. Blue eyes cold. Eddie shivers.

"What happened?" Buck demands. Abuela coming up next to him. She rubs circles in the little girls arms soothing her.

"I... you're the mother?" Ana asks, eyes wide.

"Yeah, what did you do?" Buck eyes narrow dangerously.

"I..." she looks to Eddie then back at Buck. "I thought... I picked her up."

"Mmm." Buck hums staring her down. He doesn't say anything more, he does give Eddie a look. A silent warning. Eddie can do nothing but swallow the lump in his throat. It's been two years but that look, Eddie can easily read that look. Keep her away! Buck is also very pissed. Buck then faces abuela. "I think we should go." Buck informs her, not leaving any room for argument. Abuela can only nod in understanding. Buck turns around with the twins in his arms. Abuela places her hand on his back. She looks over her shoulder, giving Ana a glare.

And shrinks in on herself. Damian having been glaring at her the whole time. She recognize the look. It's the same as Eddie. And now she knows it's a family trait. The Diaz glare.

"Dad." Chris tugs on Eddie shirt pulling him from his shock. Eddie looks at his son. "Can I go with them?" He asks.

"What?" Eddie says turning fully to him.

"I want to go with Bucky. Please?" Chris pleads. Eyes large and lips pouty. Chris is using his puppy eyes. Eddie heart breaks.

"Let me ask Buck first." Eddie says.

"Okay." Chris lets go, looking down.

"I just want to make sure he's okay with three kids by himself. Wait a second." Eddie informed his son who nods. He rushes off to hurry and catch them. He almost told Chris okay. He knew Buck would love it, always did. Never said no. But that was before the twins. He doesn't want to overwhelm Buck. The three are in a hotel so Buck doesn't have space. He needs to make sure.

Chris sits down to wait. Ana stands there. Head down as whispers start.

Eddie catches up to the them. Abuela talking to Isabel as Buck buckles Damian in. "¡La bruja me llevó! ¡Quería comerme!"(The witch took me! She wanted to eat me!) Isabel cries hair crazy with her curls free, eyes red, cheeks pink. Abuela laughs as Buck bites his lips to keep from doing the same.

"Estoy seguro de que serías delicioso."(I'm sure you'd be delicious.) Abuela teases.

"¡No quiero ser comido!"(I don't want to be eaten!) Isabel says looking worried they'd let the witch take her away.

"No! Isa!" Damian cries reaching for his sister.

"Nadie será devorado mientras yo esté aquí."(No one's getting eaten while I'm around.) Buck tells them. He gives Isabel Jr a smile. Isabel beams back. "Vamos al hotel."(Let's go to the hotel.)

"Okay!" The twins agree. Both wanting to get away from the witch. Buck smile at them sweetly.

"Wait!" Eddie comes closer. Buck closes the door but quickly rounds it to meet Eddie. "Sorry!" Eddie says though he's so sorry for so many things. "Chris wants to go with you. I don't mind but I wanted to make sure before I just told him." Eddie says. He wanted to say more but it is not the time. Buck stares at him for the longest time.

"Okay." Buck agrees.

Eddie smiles. "I'll be right back." Eddie says turning to run off to the house.

Chris is waiting in the living room when he gets back, instead of the backyard. Chris sits up. "Can I?" Chris asks.

"Yeah. Come on." Eddie says motioning for his son to follow him. After two years Chris happily does so.

Eddie leads them back to Buck rental. Buck smiles at Chris who walks faster.

"I'll meet you at the house. You have the key right?" Eddie watches as Buck helps Chris inside. Helping move his crutches.

"No. I gave that back." Buck answers.

"Oh." Eddie says. Having forgotten that. It was in his mailbox. "Ah, then just use the spare one. It's in the same spot." Eddie says.

"Kay." Buck says. He closes the door once Chris is buckled in. "I'll see you then." Buck says turning to go around to the driver's seat. Abuela and Eddie watch as Buck pulls out.

They watch as he pulls away. Disappearing down the street.

Eddie leans on his elbow, the other on the steering wheel. His mind so far. Unable to believe that just happened.

A bit nervous about Buck at his house. Most likely waiting. He wonders how Buck will react. Hoping he won't blame him for someone else's action.

Then there's Abuela. This did not let her have the best opinion of Ana. Ana who is currently sinking into the passenger seat. Abuela practically kicked her out and banned her from the house. Having to leave anyway Eddie went to find her. She hid herself in the bathroom. Where else was she supposed to go when everyone was staring at her judging.

"I'm so sorry." Ana says into the silence, her voice a whisper.

"For?" Because Eddie thinks she has a lot to be sorry for.

"I... didn't mean for that... I thought... the twins are yours?" She asks. Eddie hands grips the steering wheel.

"Yes. Why?" Eddie wonders a bit more harshly than intended. Ana is not affected by that.

"I... my mistake. I thought they live with you." Ana says, more than glad he's driving so they won't have to look at each other.

"No. They don't." Eddie says unsure where this is going.

"You had said their mother wasn't here." Ana looks down at her hands.

"Because he wasn't. Buck use to live here. He doesn't anymore. He was out of state. He wasn't even in the country." Eddie explains.

"I see. I just assumed... well, I assumed their mother had passed away." Ana answers honestly.

"What?" Eddie freezes at the thought of Buck passing away. His mind bringing the fire truck bombing. Seeing Buck face first into the gravel. It was like something from a horror film. Fire everywhere. And the hopelessness he felt. Or how about the tsunami?

"The wording... the way you worded it." Ana defends herself. Eddie can see that.

"So you made my daughter cry?" Eddie raises an eyebrow though he's focusing on the road. Wanting to hurry and drop her off. It's understandable she would think he'd have custody of his kids, especially if she thought Buck had died.

"I didn't mean to. Like I said I wanted to get the kids ready to leave. I couldn't find Damian so I thought I'd start with Isabel." Ana explains fast. Eddie can hear the desperation in her voice.

"How did you not see Buck with them?" Eddie asks because they were hanging around Buck, he was kissing them. It should have been obvious.

"Well, I saw him with Chris so I thought he was just like that with kids." Ana shrugs her shoulders.

"He fed them." Eddie points out. Buck was feeding the twins like a mommy bird.

"I did think it was weird but Chris was with him so..." Ana ends the talk because really she should have pieced it all together. Especially Damian who is too shy. Buck was very nice to everyone, even the kids but no other children were hanging around him that much.

Eddie lets out a sigh. He wants to ask why she didn't just let Isabel down when she was obviously upset with being picked up. But he doesn't really want to hear it. He wants to hurry and drop her off so he can head home and hopefully talk to Buck.

"Is Chris...?" Ana starts.

"With Buck." Eddie says.

"And you're okay with that?" She asks shocked.

"Why wouldn't I be?" Eddie says a bit defensive for Buck, defensive of himself too. Why is she questioning his decisions with his son?

"Chris needs the attention, with the twins Buck wouldn't be able to." She points out.

"Buck has taken care of Chris before. He knows what to do. I trust Chris with Buck." Eddie says firmly.

"Who is... Buck?" Ana asks slowly. She feels like she's missing something. "I mean obviously he's not Chris' mother." Ana knows Chris' mother's name is Shannon. "But Chris was very attached to him."

"Buck... is Buck." Eddie says not sure how to describe him. "We worked together. He helped me with Chris." Eddie says. He doesn't know how to tell Ana just who Buck is. It's more than coworkers. More than just raising Chris.

Ana lets it go, he obviously doesn't want to say anything else.

Eddie walks in to his house to see Buck sitting on the couch with the twins, both curled up next to him on either side. They look tired. Eddie smiles at that. Heart warming. Until his eyes meet Buck glare.

"Where's your girlfriend?" Buck says, not happy it seems.

"I dropped her off at home." Eddie says.

"I don't want her anywhere near the twins." Buck tells him. Drawing a line in the dirt.

"It was a mistake." Eddie says, wanting to defend Ana a bit as it was a mistake.

"A mistake? She left marks in Isa's arms." Buck says holding his daughter closer. Buck glares.

"What?" Eddie asks eyes wide. "Oh. Isabel kicked her. They must have been from Ana holding on." Eddie explains.

"Why was she even holding Isa long enough to be kicked? It wasn't a mistake. I know Isa. So like I said I don't want your girlfriend anywhere near Isabel. Got it?" Buck tells him firmly. Eddie nods. Not going to fight this.

"I got it." Eddie says. Buck nods. "Where's Chris?" Eddie asks looking around. It shouldn't be taking this long for Chris to get his things for a night over.

"Packing. Though I don't know how long he thinks he'll be staying." Buck says turning to look back in the direction of Chris' room. Buck then looks at Eddie. Eyes serious. "Chris asked for a day with just the two of us." Buck says.

"No twins?" Eddie isn't surprised. As much as he loves his siblings, Buck's attention won't be on him 100 percent with the twins there. It's a fact.

"Yeah. I don't mind. If you want you can have the twins tomorrow. We can switch kids for the day." Buck suggests. "Unless you have work." Buck adds on.

Eddie shakes his head. "No, that's fine." Eddie says looking down at the twins. "I... that's fine. But I have something to do tomorrow. I don't think I'll be able to take them with me. It's not with Ana." Eddie quickly says seeing Buck face.

"Then take them to abuela's. She wants to spend time with them." Buck says.

"Sounds like a plan." Eddie nods.

Eddie smiles looking down at the twins. Playing happily in the living room to abuela's house. Eddie does catch the marks from Ana on Isabel's arm. It look like it hurts. It does make him wonder why Buck thinks it wasn't a mistake. Buck won't say anything more to him though.

He can't really blame Buck. Eddie hasn't apologized yet. Still doesn't know what to say. His mind is a mess.

He's just glad Chris is having a good time. With the twins asleep it was just them two. Able to talk as long as they want. Chris having to share Buck's bed. Chris did not mind. They had breakfast together.

It sort of hurt. It felt like they were a family. It felt like it did two years ago. Before the lawsuit. The timing wasn't right to start laying it out. Not in front of the kids. Though even if they weren't there Eddie wouldn't have said anything.

"Eddito, you're going to be late." Abuela calls walking into the living room. Eddie looks to the clock seeing it's true. He stands up.

"I'll be back." Eddie says kissing his grandmother on the cheek. Getting down to his knees to hug the twins.

"Más tarde, papá."(Later papa.) Isabel gives him a smile then looks back down at the puzzle she's trying to solve.

"Bye." Damian says focusing on the same thing, a puzzle but a different one from Isabel. Eddie smiles at them.

Eddie looks at his grandmother, giving her a smile before getting up and rushing to his truck. As he sits his phone rings. He answers it and puts it on speaker, getting his belt on.

"Edmundo." Ana voice has him pausing.

"Ana?" Eddie questions. Didn't think she'd call. She was silent the rest of the drive to her apartment.

"I wanted to see if we can do something. I want to apologize to the twins as well." She sounds sincere about that.

"No." Eddie says starting his car. He puts it in reverse.

"What?" She sounds shocked.

"No. The twins are with my grandmother at the moment, I have to do something, but even then you aren't allowed close to the twins or my grandmother." Eddie lays it on thick, not seeing a reason to hide this fact.

"I... really?"

"Yes. Buck doesn't want you near the twins and my grandmother doesn't want you near her home, after the disturbance you caused." Eddie explains, driving forward.

"Oh. Well, can you ask Buck? I'd like to apologize to Isabel."

"Which one?" Eddie asks.

"Which one what?"

"Isabel. Which one? My abuela or my daughter?" Eddie wonders.

"Both?"

"No. My grandmother does not like you and neither does Buck." Eddie says. There is silence on the other end. "Ana, tell me the truth. What happened with Isabel?"

"I really only did pick her up!"

"Buck doesn't think so." Eddie says.

"Wha-" Ana starts, surprised by Eddie's words. "Well... I did tell her to get ready to go home. She said no. She kept saying no so I lifted her up. That's when she started crying."

"You... that was wrong Ana. You left marks in Isabel's arm." Eddie says frustrated.

"I didn't mean to Edmundo! She didn't listen."

"Yeah, because she wasn't going home with me. She knew she'd be going with Buck. You're a stranger to her, why would she listen to you?" Eddie wonders.

"Edmund-"

"I have to go." Eddie says sharply. He ends the call. Eddie takes a deep breath.

It's a good things he's going to therapy. Frank squeezed him in for today. He was more than happy to take it. Taking Hen's suggestion. He needs the help.

He wonders how Buck knew. He's now got to apologize for Ana. Buck is right it wasn't a mistake. Ana was trying to force her.

What a mess.

He never thought he'd see Buck so mad. Though someone made his baby cry. Eddie would be just as pissed.

He can only hope Buck isn't so mad about this. He still let him see the twins so he can't be.

Though, now he agrees. He doesn't want Ana around them either. Not like it would be a problem. Buck isn't staying.

He'll be gone any day now.

Chapter Text

Eddie thumbs his head on the table.

Then again.

He's the only person up here so he doesn't care. He can hear someone walking up to the stairs into the loft. He doesn't care who it is. He is letting the mild pain numb his brain, his thoughts.

"Rough weekend?" Hen wonders.

Eddie just lets out a groan.

"That bad?" Hen asks, he can hear her in the kitchen. Most likely getting some tea for herself. She sits next to him. It's early enough that there aren't a lot of people in yet.

She sits with him in silence. Drinking her tea as she watch him. Eddie knows he'll tell her. He wont keep it in. He needs someone to talk to about this. He talked to Frank, about his feelings about Buck being back. Even went as far as make his apology letter. He didn't give it to Buck. He was too nervous to. Abuela was there. The kids were there. He was there. Eddie did not want to be there, in the room, area, or even the same state as Buck when he reads it.

He's never had to write an apology letter before. He took it seriously, which is something he talked to Frank with as they wrote it. He made sure to add that to the letter. So Buck knows. Frank mentioned adding that help Buck understand that the letter isn't fake or made so they talk again.

The letter is currently in his truck. In the glove box. He had the opportunity to give it to Buck but he chickened out. To stand there watching Buck read his letter, that would put pressure on the other man. He didn't want to do that. Buck is very much open with his emotions no way would he be able to hide whatever he's feeling when reading his letter.

Now he doesn't know what to do, or how to get it to Buck.

"So?" Hen starts. Eddie looks up, there are a lot more people up here. Even Bobby is going through the kitchen, most likely trying to plan what they should eat.

"Huh?" Eddie wonders.

She huffs setting her now empty cup down. "What happened? You've been pressing your face into the table for an hour now."

"It's only been an hour?" Eddie looks over to the clock. It felt longer.

Hen chuckles. "Want to talk about it?" Hen asks.

"Yes. It's Buck." Eddie says.

"What happened?" Hen wonders, sitting to angle herself towards him. She looks worried.

"My abuela invited him to the latest family gathering." Eddie grimaces at the memory.

"Didn't end well?" Hen asks, knowing it didn't considering Eddie's action.

"Fuck no. It was bad Hen." Eddie groans, laying his face back on the table.

"That's a lot of noise Diaz." Chim says with a smile, coming up the stairs with them. Eddie and Hen just stare at him.

"First shift back?" Eddie asks seeing Chim in his uniform but unsure if this is his first one back.

"Yup. So any new gossip?" Chim asks sitting down. Eddie and Hen look at each other. Besides Buck there isn't much.

"Nope." The two say at the same time.

"So... Buck." Chim starts staring at them all, even looking at Bobby who had gotten closer to them.

"Yeah?" Hen says raising an eyebrow at him.

"Maddie has been trying to get into contact with him but so far nothing. I was wondering if either of you heard anything." Chim says leaning forward.

"Can't help." Hen shrugs his shoulders.

"What? But we were hoping to introduce him to Jee. I'm sure he'd love that. Maddie misses him." Chim says.

"Like she said, can't help. Buck will talk to those he wants to." Eddie says, leaning his head on his hand, elbow on the table.

"What is that suppose to mean?" Chim says looking at them both.

"It means Buck is his own person. If he doesn't want to see you then he won't see you." Hen says firmly. She stands up. "Come on Eddie we have to restock the ambulance." She says moving to set her cup in the sink. Eddie walks ahead of her moving to the ambulance to restock and most likely talk. Can't really go into depth about what happened in front of Bobby or Chim.

Eddie and Hen get as far as opening the back and start sitting in it to start restocking when an angry and serious Athena gets close. And she has her eyes set on Eddie. "You." She says darkly.

"Me?" Eddie asks pointing to himself.

"Yes, what did you do? I talked to Buck this morning. Something happened, what did you do?" Athena crosses her arms.

"I didn't do anything." Eddie stresses. Then he spots Bobby and Chim coming up behind the other two. "We have work Athena." Eddie says giving a look behind them then turning his eyes to Athena. Her eyes narrows at it. She turns to Hen, moving her head to get a look. She can spot the two in the corner of her eyes.

"Follow me you two." Athena orders. She leads them to her car. She stands there facing the two. Hen and Eddie have their back faced to the the firehouse bay. Athena eyes narrow spotting Bobby and Chim standing there. "Explain." She demands.

"Right. Um..."Eddie takes a second to think about where to start. "Remember, the day before Buck landed, you had to work so you left the twins with me and abuela?" Eddie asks. Athena nods, Hen watches silently. "While we were watching them, Ana showed up. I told her the truth. About the twins. They are mine. She didn't seem to mind."

"Okay." Athena nods, though she's still waiting for the punchline.

"Like I told Hen. Abuela had put a get together with family. I didn't know she invited Buck."

"He was there." Hen points out.

"He was, with the twins. I had dropped of Chris before going to get Ana." Eddie tells them, both nod knowing Chris does not like Ana. "Well, I guess Buck had also gotten back from getting some bags of ice. Abuela... I don't think she likes Ana. Anyway, no words were said between Buck. Abuela also warned me so I kept my distance."

"Chris was happy wasn't he?" Hen says knowing Chris has been wanting his Bucky back.

"Yeah." Eddie smiles. "He stuck to Buck like glue. He was more attached than the twin were."

"How were the twins?" Athena wonders.

"Good. They had fun. I think. Buck seem to enjoy it too. Everything was going well."

"Until," Hen stresses wanting to get to the juicy part. Eddie lets out a groan.

"Ana." Eddie says.

"What did she do?" Athena says once again serious.

"She didn't catch on that Buck is the twins... mother. She thought Buck was gone, dead, she misunderstood what I was told her. She thought the twins live with me. When it started getting dark she wanted to get the kids ready to leave. Isabel was first. Damian was getting clingy with Buck so he took him to the bathroom. Ana meanwhile, told Isabel to get ready to leave."

"I can't imagine that going well." Hen says. Eddie gives a humorless laugh.

"It did not. According to Ana, Isabel wasn't taking shit from her. Kept telling her no. So Ana picked her up, and Isabel screamed and cried. I was so shocked. Buck came running, took Isabel out of Ana's arms." Eddie explains, sliding his hands down his face. "Buck was pissed. I've never seen him like that."

"Yeah. I asked how his days have been, it went well till he mentioned you." Athena says.

"She just... picked Isabel up?" Hen asks.

"I know. Buck has banned her from being around the twins. Buck said she left marks on Isabel." Eddie says looking a bit frustrated.

"She did not." Athena says threateningly.

"She did. I saw them."

"Okay now I understand why Buck is mad. I would be too." Hen says crossing her arms over her chest.

"Buck new instantly something was wrong." Eddie points out, still amazed by that fact.

"Well yeah. I taught Buck that method." Athena says crossing her arms over her chest.

"What do you mean?" Hen asks.

"Years ago there had been a situation with someone taking children. Buck once asked me what a good way to make sure that never happens. It's good to teach children the two one. If someone asks or tells you to do something you don't want to tell them so loudly, twice. If they grab, yell as loud as they can. I suggested yelling pervert or mom. It grabs people's attention, especially when a child yells it." Athena tells them.

"Oh, I'll teach that to Denny as well." Hen says.

"Isabel did call Ana a pervert in Spanish." Eddie says. "Besides calling her a witch." Eddie adds.

Hen and Athena let out a laugh.

"I wouldn't be surprised if Buck taught Chris that as well." Athena says.

"I'm sure." Eddie has no doubt about that.

"Alright. Thank you for telling me." Athena nods. Eddie gets an idea.

"Uh... can you do something for me?" Eddie asks.

"What?" Athena raises her eyebrow at him.

"My apology letter." Eddie says.

"You saw Frank?" Hen asks.

"Yeah, he helped me. I was hoping you'd give it to him." Eddie looks at Athena with hope.

"I will." Athena nods.

"It's in my car. Just a moment." Eddie smiles, he rushes forward, to get his locker to get his car keys.

"How's Buck?" Hen wonders.

"Still not wanting to see Bobby, Chim or Maddie." Athena states.

"Think it will ever happen?" Hen tilts her head to the cop.

"Don't know. There's not a lot of time left."

"He's leaving already?" Hen eyes widen.

"Yeah. I don't know when he'll be back. Not anytime soon. I know his schedule is not normal." Athena says. Eddie coming jogging with a letter in hand.

"It sucks. We found him but he's not staying." Hen says slightly frustrated.

"Is he leaving today?" Eddie asks handing the letter to Athena, face sad, he looks over at Hen.

"No. And he's actually planning to take the twins to Colorado. He wants to let them experience snow for the first time." Athena tells them.

"Oh, we need pictures of that." Hen says with a smile.

"I'll let him know. Or you could ask him yourself. I want to plan a goodbye dinner with him. The day he leaves, I think he said it's a late flight so he has time. Why don't we all have lunch or something before he leaves." Athena suggests.

"Sounds cool." Eddie says.

"Sounds fun. Karen would love to do that."

"Chris would like to say goodbye." Eddie adds.

"How has he been doing?" Athena wonders.

"Less grumpy. The only thing he's talked to me recently has been about Buck." Eddie shrugs. Both women give him a look of sympathy. Neither women know what to say. He knew he screwed up but it must suck getting punished in such a way by his son.

"I'll let you to get to work." Athena says. She gives them both a nods before turning to her police cruiser. Hen and Eddie watch as Athena pulls away. When she's gone they turn around to go back to the firehouse. Hen pats Eddie's shoulder. She never knows what to say when he talks about Chris.

"What was that about?" Chim wonders. "The letter."

"It's my apology letter." Eddie says.

"For?" Chim wonders. Eddie looks at Chim confused, he can't be serious can he?

Eddie looks at Hen then looks at Chim. "For how I treated Buck."

"Oh." Chim says.

"You wrote it?" Bobby asks.

"I got Frank to help." Eddie says. Bobby nods but doesn't say anything. He can imagine it hurts, his wife has not told him anything. She doesn't talk about Buck in front of him.

"Did you write him?" Chim asks Hen.

"No, but I wasn't a bully." Hen says pointed.

"Has he... told you?" Chim eyes widen.

"What you said? Yes." Hen says with a frown.

The alarm rings before anyone can say anything.

Dear Buck,

I am going to come out and say that I'm currently writing this in Frank's office and this version is the fifteenth time I've written this letter. I'm glad Frank is helping me. I had been wracking my brain about what to say. I've never had to apologize before. Just saying 'I'm sorry' wasn't enough. I am sorry. Truly.

Yelling at you at the grocery store wasn't professional. Especially not in front of co-workers. I was filled with so many emotions, and I didn't have a heathy outlet for it so I took it out on you. When I shouldn't have. Especially when my frustration wasn't fully on you. I was mad at Shannon for leaving in the first place, for wanting to leave again and it seemed like she wanted to forget about Chris. As you know I signed the papers but I couldn't, didn't want to, find a way to tell Chris about her. I never got to say it all to her face before she died. It felt wrong to be mad at her after. It also felt wrong to tell Chris about the truth. So I shoved away those feelings.

Then you got caught in the fire engine bombing. It wasn't about me it was about you getting better. I'm so glad you did. I could not loose you Buck. Still can't.

I was stupid. I should have given you a chance to explain yourself. I should have wondered why. I regret not doing that. I regret a lot. Especially not welcoming you back.

I understand why you did what you did. After learning Bobby was keeping you from work I was so mad. I blamed him for everything. I am still upset but it wasn't all on Bobby. I could have been there, by your side but I wasn't.

I do wish you told me about it.

Everything came together in a violent tornado. I took it out on you. I'm sorry for the things I said to you. About being exhausting. I didn't mean it. I just wanted to hurt you so I found the words too. I regret that.

You don't have to forgive me. I'm not asking for that. I'm asking you to let me talk to you, for Chris. He wants you around. I know that would be impossible with you in Peru but just a call or text would be good. You are important to him.

Can I ask the same thing with the twins? I want to be able to see them. Chris would too. It's all up to you. I will respect your wishes.

Thank you for even reading my letter. I know you didn't have to.

Sincerely, Eddie

Eddie lays on his bed. Night stand lamp on.

Chris was okay. He listened. No attitude. Not grumpy. But he did ask to see Buck. Eddie hurt because he wasn't sure if that was possible. He did not know how to tell Chris that. He also didn't want to bother Hen in doing it for him.

Eddie hopes Buck got his letter. But who knows if Athena got it to him. She might work late. So he might get the letter tomorrow. All he can do is wait.

A ping gets his attention. He moves his head from staring at the ceiling to his night stand, reaching for his phone. Ana has been very persistent in trying to apologize even though he highly doubts an apology would work.

To his surprise it's not Ana. It's an unknown number.

Reading furthered he learns who it is.

It's Buck!

Eddie sits up, giving himself whiplash. He blinks at his screen. Buck sent him a text! Eddie heart is pounding. Eddie gets up to pace him room. Taking deep breaths. This is a good sign. Buck made first contact. In a way he's unblocked.

But what did he say?

With a huff Eddie sits down to grab his phone that he abandoned. He takes deep breaths, ignoring his shaky hands.

I read your letter. The text says. So he did get it.

Eddie: I meant it. Eddie texts back.

I know. I'm also sorry. For not getting into contact with you earlier about the twins. I was mad at you.

Eddie: I get that. And Eddie does.

I sill am. A bit.

Eddie: You're talking to me?

I may be mad but I still love you. I still love Chris and I don't want to separate you from the twins.

Eddie: Thank you. Buck doesn't know how much that means to him. Of course he does and that's why he's doing this.

Can we talk? Like on a call?

Sure. Eddie sends and not a second later does Buck's new number pop up. "Hello." Eddie calls, louder than a whisper but more silent than his normal voice.

"Is Christopher not asleep?"

"He is I just don't want to risk it. The twins?"

"Sleeping. I took them to an amusement park today. They weren't old enough for a lot but I think they had fun." Eddie can tell he's looking at them with love, a grin on his face.

"Sounds nice. Can I get pictures?" Eddie asks tentatively. He wasn't sure if that was crossing a line.

"I'll send them." Eddie can hear the smile in his voice. At some point Eddie had laid down, eyes on the ceiling again.

"Buck." Eddie calls his name.

"Mmm?"

"Why didn't you tell me about Bobby?" Eddie asks, finally. He's been wanting to know. Was he untrustworthy? Did Buck think Eddie wouldn't understand?

Buck sighs. "I guess... it was because I'm so used to doing things myself. I never had... a partner before. I didn't think too."

"Oh." How can Eddie be upset at that? Most of Buck's life he was alone. More often alone than not Eddie knew about Abby and Ali. Even in relationships with them, it wasn't a partnership. Abby left and Ali traveled. Once again Buck was alone. Buck didn't know any better. How could he? Eddie isn't any better. "I'm sorry. I left you to take care of the twins by yourself."

"Don't apologize for that. It was my choice to keep it hidden. That isn't your fault."

"I wish I was there."

"I do to. I... wish a lot of things were different. But it's not."

"Yeah. How are you? I know how, everyone's said you're doing good but I just want to hear it from you."

"I'm okay. Better than I was before."

"How is Peru?"

"Fun. Amazing. Different than I remember but then again I was a bartender. I'm not serving drinks, flirting with everyone, or getting waisted."

"I'm glad." Eddie is not glad. He sort of wish Buck hated it there. But what's not to like? Buck has been there before.

"Thanks. There's a couple museums that they have here, I'm waiting for the twins to get older so I can take them. I hope they like it..." Eddie smiles, just listening to Buck talk. Eyes drifting closed. It's almost like he's right there, next him. "Eddie!" The man jumps at his name looking around.

"What?"

"Did you fall asleep?" Buck sounds amused.

"I... think." Eddie says because he doesn't remember doing that. He also doesn't remember much of what Buck was saying so he must have gone to sleep at some point.

"If you're tired you could have told me. Are you on shift tomorrow?"

"No. It should be my day off." Eddie rubs at his eyes.

"Good. Can the twins and I come over? It's the week end so Chris should be home as well."

"That's fine."

"Good. We're leaving the day after tomorrow."

"That soon?" Eddie perks. It feels like he was barely here at all.

"I didn't get that long off as vacation. Plus, I thought since we're here in the states we can do something else."

"Athena said you plan to go to Colorado."

"Yeah. The slopes are open so I wanted to take them there. I think I'd be fun."

"I'm sure it would be."

"I better let you sleep. See you tomorrow."

"Goodnight Buck."

"Good night Eddie." with that Buck ends the call.

It doesn't take long for Eddie to find sleep. Happily. With good dreams.

When Eddie wakes up he lays in bed, the sun beaming into the room. Once again he stares at the ceiling. His mind replaying what happened. He half thinks it's a dream. But it's too good to be a dream.

Curious, he reaches over to check the time on his phone. He is mildly surprised he's up so early. He hasn't felt rested in so long. Quickly he goes to Buck contact seeing the text from last night. It's real.

Eddie feels himself smile. He doesn't know if Buck forgives him but Buck is talking to him, and that's what matters.

Eddie sits up, moving to hurry and go start the day. Breakfast and then start cleaning, because when was the last time he deep cleaned the house?

Chris is eating his cereal, watching his father run around. It was the vacuum going that woke him up. When walking out he comes face to face with the living room upside down. His father takes a second to make a bowl of cereal for him. Now his father is cleaning the floors. As soon as Eddie finishes he puts the living room back. He takes the bowl away. Cleaning it. Then back to cleaning the house. Scrubbing clean every surface of dust and sanitizing the surface. Who knew everything was sticky?

Chris watched as his father started to clean the walls. Finally when he's had enough Chris steps up to his father to ask what's going on. He's never seen his dad this crazy. And he hopes it's not because of Ana. He needs to know so he can prepare. Using the wall as support he steps up.

"Dad, what are you doing?" Chris asks.

"Cleaning mijo," Eddie says on his knees scrubbing the baseboards. "The house hasn't been cleaned, we need to get ready-" Eddie takes a deep breath, snapping his head to his son. "Mijo, can you get my phone?" Eddie asks desperately. How long has he been cleaning?

"Okay." Chris nods going to the kitchen to the table. He grabs the phone and turns back to walk to his dad who is scrubbing at a certain spot, "here dad." Chris hands over the phone. Eddie takes it. He looks shocked and frowns.

"Have you brushed your teeth?" Eddie asks seriously.

"No."

"Go. Go. Go." Eddie motions for him to go. Chris rolls his eyes. But he goes to brush his teeth. When he comes back his dad has moved to the kitchen. Cleaning the counter and sink.

"Dad," Chris whines. "What is going on?" Chris asks but Eddie continues to clean. "You've never been this... serious about cleaning." Chris points out.

"I know. Everything is dirty. Buck and the twins will be here soon so no mess." Eddie tells him. Chris jumps at the mention of Buck and his siblings.

"Bucky is coming over!" Chris asks getting closer.

"Yes." Eddie pauses, a gasp as he pauses. "I need to clean the bathroom." Eddie reminds himself.

"I can help!" Chris shouts. Wanting to help his dad. He's right. When was the last time they cleaned the house? Buck and his siblings can't be here if the house isn't clean.

They are in the middle of cleaning the tub when they hear a knock on the door. The two pause, looking at each other. "Dad." Chris says both knowing who it must be. Jumping up Eddie runs forward to the door. Ripping it open to Buck, wearing a back pack. Buck nose wrinkles.

"You smell heavily like cleaner." Buck says moving a hand to cover his nose.

"Just some cleaning." Eddie says taking a deep breath. Still not moving.

"Okay." Buck looks down at the twins. "Can we come in?" Buck looks back at Eddie.

"Right. Of course." Eddie takes a step back letting them in. The twins run in. Buck moves forward with a smile on his face. Nose still scrunching at the smell. Maybe Eddie went too far. He opens the window. Listening at the sound of the twins greeting Chris happily. Chris greeting them back. Isabel and Damian helping Chris move to the living room. Buck goes to sit down on the couch taking the back pack off. Eddie watches Chris hug Buck, who hugs him back.

Eddie hurries to the bathroom to finish and put everything away. As he finishes Buck stands at the door way. Leaning against it.

"Eddie, is everything okay?" Buck asks, concerned in his voice and on his face.

"Yeah, why?" Eddie says washing the tub. Water going down the drain. Revealing a sparkling tub.

"Chris just told me you turned into a cleaning maniac." Buck points with his thumb over his shoulder though Eddie isn't looking at him. "Are you okay?"

"I'm okay. It had just been a while since the house was cleaned." Eddie says gathering the cleaning supplies.

"Oh, if you're busy we could have said so." Buck tells him.

"No! I just... it's okay. You are leaving soon." Eddie says out loud. He hates saying it. He bites his lips because he needs to keep calm. He doesn't want to see them leave. But he has no say, they live in Peru. Who knows what else Buck life in Peru is like. He should stop thinking about it.

"Athena wants to get together tomorrow. Our flight is at 2 so we are getting together to have lunch together. Do you want to come?" Buck asks.

"Yeah. I can bring Chris right?" Eddie walks pass him. Putting things away.

"Of course. Denny, May and Harry will be there too." Buck says following him.

Eddie finishes, putting things away. Buck still watches him.

"When do you think..." Eddie takes a deep breath, "you'll be back? Visiting again?" Eddie asks.

"I don't know." Buck says, rubbing the back of his neck, "my schedule isn't simple, I'm shocked I got so many days off. We will have to talk about it but I'm sure we can figure it out. I want the twins to see Chris more. So do I." Buck says with a small smile.

"If you need anything don't hesitate to ask." finally Eddie looks at Buck.

"I will." Buck smiles. "If Chris wants to talk send me a text. I'll call as soon as I can." Buck says nervously. Hoping he's not over stepping.

"Thank you." Eddie says, hoping Chris attitude gets better, more calm. "Let's go to the kids." Eddie says ignoring the happy flutter his heart does.

Buck nods.

The day is spend playing. Laughing. Having fun. Making memories as a family. The five of them. Eddie makes sure to stare as he tries to memorize everything about this moment. The little mannerism of the twins. The way Buck smiles. The dimples. Blue eyes shine. The sound of all three kids. And god. All three kids laugh like Buck. Throwing their heads back and opening their mouth.

And watching Buck with the three kids Eddie realizes Buck came up with all the fun things. Eddie never really knows what to do. Guess he's like his dad in that aspect. All work no play.

He doesn't know if he can handle Buck going away again. Going home.

Chapter Text

Eddie takes a deep breath. Eyes on the diner.

"Eddito? What's wrong?" Abuela moves around to face him. Eddie looks at her, then angles his head to see Tia Pepa helping Chris get out the car. He looks back down at his grand mother.

"Buck, he read my letter." Eddie tells her with his head down.

"He forgave you?" She asks excitedly.

"No. We talked yesterday. He just wants me to have a relationship with the twins, and for the kids to get along." Eddie says sadly. They had gotten a moment when the kids had tired themselves out enough for a nap. They had talked. Buck told him he didn't forgive Eddie for what he'd done. Eddie was mean and petty. His words hurt Buck deeply and it was on purpose. They weren't even accidental. Buck did not appreciate Eddie taking his anger out on him. His attitude after the lawsuit was also not okay. Especially when Buck had done all he could to apologize and receive forgiveness. Did Eddie really think a letter was all it took? Buck did more than that and they all stomped on it. After all that and he thought a letter would be enough to fix it.

Being told that by Buck was like getting frozen water dumped on his head. It was a good wake up call.

"Oh. He's leaving today." Abuela points out, eyebrows furrowed sadly.

"I know." Eddie almost whispers his head bowed down.

"It's not the end. The communication is open." Abuela points out seriously. And she does make sense. Two years ago Buck disappeared and didn't answer a text or call. Now he knows Buck will call for Chris.

"Thanks Abuela." Eddie smiles. It still hurts though.

"What are you all doing just standing there?" Hen wonders. Karen and Denny besides her.

"We just got here." Eddie answers, Pepa and Chris standing next to him. He gives a smile to the family of three. His problems are his. He doesn't want to ruin the goodbye dinner.

"Do you know if Buck is here already?" Karen wonders.

"Ahh..." Eddie turns around looking for a Jeep but then remembering Buck must have gotten a rental. He doesn't see it, though he's not sure what his rental looks like. The last time he saw it, it was dark and his focus was not on the car.

"What's everyone doing out here?" Athena asks, May and Harry with her.

"Just got here." Eddie and Hen say at the same time.

"Let's go in." Athena says leading the group in the diner. In no mood to stand and chat, wasting precious time.

The group make small talk as they get to the door. Taking it slow as they walk in. Athena walks to the stand, no one there. Eddie, like he has some sort of Buck radar, turns to find Buck talking over the menu with the twins.

"Welcome, a table for how many?" A waitress comes up to them with a smile that does not quiet reach her eyes.

"We're with him." Eddie motions to Buck who hasn't noticed them. Everyone turning to see.

"Buck!" Chris shouts rushing forward. Hearing his name Buck jumps then turns to see them all.

"You guys made it." Buck smiles at them. Eyes then go to Chris as he sprints his way forward. They join Chris in walking towards the large table. Buck is sitting on the end of one side of the large table. The twins on his right in their high chairs. Chris takes the seat on Buck left. Across from Isabel Jr, Tia Pepa taking a seat next to Damian. Isabel Sr next to her. Then Karen. Hen. Athena at the other end. May. Harry. Denny. Lastly Eddie who sat next to Chris.

They greet each other. Making small conversation as the waitress walks around to get their drinks. Going around to end with Chris. Who of course orders for himself. Buck smiles watching Chris. Not watching Eddie looking at him. All the woman giving each other knowing looks.

"Mama, leche." Isabel Jr says slapping Buck elbow, Buck listening to Chris story. Who acts like they didn't spend the day before together. But two years is a long time.

"Leche." Damian watches, reaching forward but his short arms not reaching his mom like his sister can.

"No. No more milk." Buck says firmly then turning again to Chris. Letting Isabel Jr, who can reach, touch his arm as much as she wants.

"No leche?" Isabel and Damian repeat, both looking heart broken. Big blue eyes looking larger.

"Why not just give them milk?" Karen asks looking confused, a bit sorry for interrupting Chris but having seen Buck and the twins she couldn't help but ask. Buck looks over to see them all looking at him.

"Oh." Buck blinks. His cheeks turning pink, reaching to the tip of his ears. "Um..." Buck looks away, using his hand to rub the back of his neck. "They don't mean cows milk they- ah- they want..." Buck voice fades. His face is burning.

"You mean you breastfed?" Hen asks. She shouldn't be surprised though, most carriers produce milk just like any non breeder. It's still a shock to hear it happening to Buck. Some women and carriers don't produce enough milk and therefore rely on formula. Seems Buck is not one.

"Yes." Buck hides his face in his hands. He's absolutely mortified. He knows it's natural, breastfeeding, he just didn't want it to be announced to people he hasn't seen in over two years.

"Leche please." Isabel Jr asks reaching over to get carried.

"No leche. There's no more." Buck explains. Everyone watches as the twins frown. The twins eyes going to Buck chest. Very obvious in what they want. Buck covers his chest. If anything it brings more attention to his breast with how tight he always has his shirts.

"No more?" Damian ask sadly. Most women at the table coo, even some from other tables.

"Yes. All gone." Buck explains, trying very hard to convince the twins to drop it. That causes the table to start snickering. Buck takes a chance to look at Eddie, he's looking intensely at Buck chest. Buck blushes looking away. Eyes catching the waitress. He sits up seeing a perfect distraction.

It works on the twins. They got distracted by their juice, which Buck is thankful for.

"How is your health Buck? Especially after the birth of twins?" Pepa wonders. Buck watches the twins drink their juice, happily forgetting about what they had wanted.

Buck looks at her, "It wasn't bad, just taxing on my body." Pepa nods, if pushing one kid is tiring she can't imagine having to push another not long after.

"How was taking them home for the first time?" Hen wonders. Who did he have there to help? How did he not break being alone?

"Nerve wracking." Buck says with a sweet smile. He'll never forget the day he took them home. "I felt like I wasn't prepared but I had read the books. I... never took care of a baby before and there I was responsible for two."

"Esperanza helped didn't she?" Athena wonders.

"Esperanza?" Abuela repeats, looking at Athena then at Buck.

"My neighbor. She lets us call her Abuela. She practically lived with me while I recovered and helped me take care of the twins." Buck explains with a smile. 

They talk some more. Laughing. Eating. Buck watches as the twins are passed around.

They spend a couple hours after finishing eating to talk. Buck getting asked about stories of raising the twins. Everyone forgetting there's a time limit.

Buck of course set a timer. Reluctantly he gets up, everyone curious until he announces it's time to go. He pays for them all without question. They join Buck to his rental. Watch as Buck buckles them in. All of them agreeing to see Buck and the twins off at the airport.

He ends up meeting them near drop off, rental and car seats given back. He gives a hug to everyone. Saying his goodbye because who knows when he'll see them again. He'd love to see them often but they all know how unrealistic that is.

He hugs Athena tightly. Eyes watery. "Thank you." He whispers into her ear. "I wouldn't have been able to do this without you." Taking in her lavender scent.

"Thank you for listening. I'm glad you decided to visit. You have a beautiful family." She says rubbing circles into his back. Buck holds her close. Eyes clamped shut to keep from crying.

"Thank you." Buck says because Athena has no clue how much he would regret never visiting. He already was feeling bad about never reaching out, and about keeping Eddie in the dark with the twins. He takes a couple breaths to keep his emotions in check. He doesn't want to cry.

He pulls back, giving Athena a smile. She reaches up to place a hand on his cheek. She reaches higher to place her thumb against his birthmark. Athena gives him a smile as he tilts his head in to her hand.

They both take a breath. "Be careful out there." She tells him.

"I will." Buck says, and she believes it. He's got two beautiful kids waiting at home for him.

Buck turns, eyes looking around until he catches Chris. Buck smiles, but Chris doesn't return it. He walks to Chris, getting down onto his knees. "Do you have to leave?" Chris asks sadly. It breaks Buck hearts but there's nothing he can do.

"The twins and I don't live here Chris. We have to go home." Buck says, Chris only frowns more. Buck reaches up, slowly in case Chris rejects his touch. He doesn't. Chris leans into it. Buck pulls Chris into a bone crushing hug, one Chris returns. Wrapping his arms around Buck neck, pushing his face into his neck. Buck kisses Chris head, his curls. "Just know I will always love you." He whispers into his ear. Chris pulls back. Tears in his eyes.

"I don't want you to disappear." his voice cracks and his lips wobble.

"I'm not. Call me when ever you want. I might not answer because of work but I promise to try to answer as fast as I can." Buck says looking straight into Chris eyes so he knows it's all the truth.

"Promise?" Chris asks.

"Promise." Buck holds his pinky out. Chris wraps his own around Buck larger one. A small smile on his lips. Everyone staring because they all know that as the Buckley promise. Buck pulls Chris into a hug once again. "I love you, don't ever forget." Buck whispers.

"I love you too." Chris says back.

No one disturbs them. Silently watching as the two hug. Chris lets go first, turning to hug his siblings. Who happily give him a hug. Neither seem to fully understand what's going on.

With one more wave goodbye they all watch Buck leave, a backpack on him and the twins, holding the twins hands as he walks forward. The crowd stand there as he disappears into the masses. It takes a while cause he's so tall.

Eddie stands there the longest having to watch half his family walk away. If he didn't have his Abuela and Tia with him, he knows he and Chris would have been standing there for hours. Waiting for a miracle that wont come.

Athena sits on her lounge chair. Just staring out at the garden. The same garden Buck has laughed a billion times in, the same one he coughed blood in, that being the last time he ever stepped foot in this garden. She wants nothing more than for the twins to step foot in here one day.

She doesn't move as May joins her.

Then the two are left sitting in silence. Neither saying a word. What was there to say? He's not even gone for 8 hours and they miss him. Miss the twins. Miss seeing the way his eyes light up at them. The way his smile grows so wide his dimples show. The sound of his voice. The way he cares for his two babies. The way he cares and listens to them.

A knock on the glass shocks them both, jumping in their skin as they turn to see who it is. Bobby. Looks like he got back from work. Hen and Eddie had taken the day off. "He's gone?" Bobby asks, face sad.

"Yes. Though he's taking a detour to Colorado." Athena says.

"I can't imagine how Eddie feels." May says looking down. Athena looks at her daughter, then thinks about it. Half his family left. He must be feeling a lot of things. Then there's Christopher.

"We may never know." Knowing that man is very good at locking his emotions in. "But I can imagine he's not happy about it." 

"Why would...?" Bobby asks raising an eyebrow to them. Athena raises hers back.

"I know for a fact my husband is more perceptive than that." Athena points outs as she gets up.

"It's pretty obvious Bobby." May says one step behind her mother.

"Buck and Eddie?" Bobby asks after them.

May and Athena nod. "We've seen the proof too." May mutters under her breath.

Bobby blinks then shakes his head. There's not much he can do now. Though he can't say he's shocked. "Are you both hungry?"

"Maybe something small. Lunch with Buck was filling." Athena tells her husband.

"Me too. It was nice of Buck to pay for us. Can't imagine that have been cheap." May frowns.

"The hotel he booked was also very nice." Athena points out loud. "And the fact he booked a vacation with no problem." Athena adds.

"Is Buck secretly rich?" May asks them. Athena looks at Bobby who looks at her.

It doesn't really matter.

Bobby looks down. He'd miss his chance. Honestly he wasn't sure what to say. Or how to say it. Did things go too far? Yes. They did and it was all his fault. He was worried and scared. The man he thinks of as a son (he still does) was hurt because of his past. His decision. He'd already lost his family once because of his choices he couldn't loose another. Then Buck had the embolism. Seeing Buck all cut up and caked in dirt, eyes tired after the tsunami, learning Buck happen to be there with Chris when the wave hit, it hurt him. All his worries and fears came back.

If he could he would wrap Buck in bubble wrap. Place him somewhere safe. He never wanted Buck to be hurt and seeing him being the marshal felt one hundred percent safer. For Bobby heart as well. He couldn't see Buck hurt again.

The lawsuit hurt, it made Bobby mad. Another reckless action. Buck won, which hurt more. Like yelling in his face he's wrong. Which he was. He shouldn't have kept Buck away. Learning Buck dropped the lawsuit didn't help. Learning Buck left did.

Hurt again but now sad. He just left. Left because of him (them).

He got an earful from Athena. She understands where Bobby is coming from. Harry almost got blown up by the same person. Athena also wanted to wrap Harry in bubble wrap and never let him go. She sort of did. She had an eye on both May and Harry for the longest time. After a while, and a talking from both kids and Michael she let up. She mentioned that Bobby had missed important milestones as a father. He lost his kids young, then he's given Buck, an adult son. He wasn't able to grow into seeing his son grow. As default he tried babying Buck. Of course it didn't work.

It ended up blowing up in his face. After Buck left they all had a sitting down. Athena revealed the truth. No one was happy with him. His only saving grace was the fact no one could find Buck, and there wasn't a clue to where he'd gone. What point was there in being mad at him? At that point it was all water under the bridge.

Days passed. Then weeks. Turning into months. After a year. Lastly two had past.

The guilt grew until it almost threatened to consume him. But his family was there. And Buck memory. Hen talked about how worried Buck was the last time. He wanted Buck to be proud of him. He got some therapy sessions as well.

And now he's stuck. Hurt Buck doesn't want to see him but understanding in why. The guilt is also back. He doesn't know where to start.

"Good morning captain." Bobby looks at Sonia, a firefighter he often sees at the office. He gives her a warm smile.

"Good morning." he says back.

"I dropped off some paperwork for you." She says with a kind smile on her face.

"Thank you. I'll get to it."

"I'd appreciate it. And congratulations." She smiles at him. He looks at her confused but she continues to walk. Bobby just stands there. He's missing something. But he doesn't know what.

Bobby continues forward to switch with captain Mehta. He's not missing an anniversary. It's not his birthday. He hasn't done anything that warranted congrats. Maybe she got something mixed up? Though that doesn't seem like her, she's got an amazing memory. So maybe it's him?

"You're a bit early." Bobby looks up to see Mehta standing there.

"Wanted to finish up some reports." Bobby answers, the other captain nods in understanding.

"You should have the office to yourself." Mehta motions with a cup of coffee to the office. Bobby nods, liking that he can get paperwork done before his shift. It is more efficient than wallowing at home. "Oh, I hear congratulation are in order." Mehta smiles at him though he can see the tired in the other's eyes. Bobby looks at his fellow captain more confused than before.

It's really him! What is he missing? "For?" Bobby decides to ask, knowing he won't be able to figure it out himself.

"Well, everyone knows Buckley is your kid, blood or not."

"Okay?" Bobby only raises a confused eyebrow at him. He knows he hasn't been subtle in his parental favoritism with Buck. Sure he didn't think every one would know but what does Buck have to do with any of this?

"He's got a kid, that makes you a grandpa."

"What?" Bobby's eyes widen.

"We all heard Buckley is around, we've all seen him with a kid. Even I did. He was having a meal with your wife. She was very close to the baby girl. Congrats on being a grandpa." Mehta smiles, the hand not holding his mug reaching over to slap a hand on Bobby shoulder, though Bobby can only stare wide eyed. Mouth hitting the floor. Before anything can be said the damn bell rings.

Mehta and his crew running to the engines. Bobby is left standing there. Only coming out as he sees he dropped his coffee, handle hanging from his hand now by his side.

Quickly he cleans up then goes to the office. Wanting to just lock himself in there, and he can until his shift starts or the crew comes back.

After sitting he realizes he won't be able to work.

He's not so sure he believes it but then again why would the other captain lie? They are very cordial, so Bobby doesn't expect Mehta to want to mess with him. He also can't imagine Sonia being in on it. This is no prank.

But things are making more sense. His wife had been very secretive about Buck. Never telling him more than needed. He knows Hen and Eddie must know. The pair had seen him during his visit. So why not say anything?

Buck doesn't want to see him.

Of course Buck wouldn't want him to be around his baby, a daughter from what the captain said, not after everything he'd done. He understands, he truly does but it hurts. He would stay away, he did, but he would have liked to know how Buck is doing down in Peru. Where does he live? What does he do? How old is his daughter? What's his new family like?

All Bobby knows is he's happy. That's good to hear, still he would love to know more.

Now what does he do with this information?

Nothing. He decides. He'll act like he knows nothing.

He's preparing the chicken they will be having for lunch when Chim joins them in the loft. He watches silently as he walks to Hen and Eddie on the couch. The two have been sad since the start of their shift. Bobby knows it's because they had all said goodbye to Buck. Athena and May said a little bit about it. Which means May and Harry know about Bucks baby girl. Does Chim know?

He can't possibly, Buck doesn't want to see him either.

"Okay, where's Buck?" Chim demands. Bobby takes a moment to look up. Eddie and Hen look at each other.

"Why?" Hen wonders arms crossing over her chest.

"For Maddie. She's been trying to contact him, to talk but he's not picking up. We'd like him to know about Jee. Maybe even for them to meet. She's family." He says frustrated obviously. Bobby catches the way Eddie and Hen look at each other. He can't tell what got them looking like that but he can guess.

Buck must be more focused on his own baby than his niece. It must not help he's mad at both of them.

"Buck knows about Jee. We've told him." Hen tells him.

"He does?" Chim calms down at that. "Then why not talk to us? Doesn't he want to meet her?" Chim wonders, unbelieving that Buck would be cruel. Once again Bobby sees Hen and Eddie give each other looks.

"Why would he when you both haven't apologized to him?" Eddie says sharply, giving Chim a cold stare. Chim blinks. "And what's with that family bullshit?" Eddie crosses his arms over his chest. "You're the one who told him to leave, that we were better off without him. Maddie was also the one who sided with you. If you were really family wouldn't you have been there for him? Was Maddie there?"

A loud splat is heard. Looking over they see Bobby staring at Chim with wide eyes. Hands hovering over the bowl of the chicken he was seasoning.

"You said that to him?" Bobby asks. He was mad at Buck but he never told him something cruel.

"We were all mad at him." Chim says to his defense.

"I really wasn't." Hen raises her eyebrow.

"Eddie said stuff too." Chim says.

"I've owned up to it. What to you think I was apologizing for?" Eddie huffs.

"You and Maddie should have written letters like Eddie did. It's too late now, Buck left." Hen shrugs her shoulders.

"What! When?"

"Like a day ago. We sent him off. Had a big lunch and everything." Hen tells him dryly.

"He was just visiting." Eddie adds. That must have been obvious.

"Where's he gone?" Chim asks looking at them both.

"Colorado for the rest of his vacation. But he lives in Peru. Try asking Athena for his address." Hen tells him, but hearing Athena has Buck address has Chim shiver at the idea of trying to get it.

Chim excuses himself, not looking at anyone.

Bobby looks down to finish. This conversation did confirm one thing. Chim does not know, and neither does Maddie.

Bobby lets out a small sigh.

He misses his son.

"So," Hen sets down her drink on the coaster. Eyes on her coworker, the only one she can tolerate at the moment. "Want to talk about what's got you in the worst of moods?" She eyes Eddie who has been wearing a frown on his face since Chim explosion. Who was silent the rest of their shift. "I'll add I'm shocked you joined me."

At that Eddie looks at her. "Chris is with abuela for the night. They plan to face call Buck." Eddie looks back at his beer.

"Mmm, and that upsets you?" Hen prods. Knowing he didn't come here to just drink.

"No. I'm happy. Chris has been in a better mood, though he was upset after saying goodbye to Buck. The promise of calls made him feel better." Eddie smiles then frowns.

"So why the frown?" Hen eyes him. Trying to read everything. Even after two years of being partnered and she's still no better than Buck.

Eddie lets out a deep sigh. "Buck read my letter."

"Congrats." Hen says but Eddie gives her a glare that says otherwise. "Or not."

"He's still mad at me. I told him the truth. I think I hurt him more. Buck had apologized so much and I wouldn't give yet here I was giving him a letter and expecting everything to be okay." Eddie says looking at the beer bottle. Glaring at it.

"Makes sense. Doesn't help he left." Hen gets a drink of her own bear.

"I can't show him how sorry I am, I'm just glad he came back for Chris. He's not taking it out on Chris." Eddie says, expression happy for a second.

"Buck would never. He's got a big heart. He loves all three of his kids equally." Hen knows what she's seen. Those eyes Buck gave Chris, it's the same he gives the twin. Only now Hen knows it's a parental love look, one Buck always gave Chris. He's had it since way before the tsunami.

"Chris really is his kid." Eddie says sadly. Knowing he'd kept them apart. Eddie can only imagine what it'd be like to not be able to see his son.

"We all saw it." Hen says. No doubt in her mind everyone knows.

"I'm... upset with myself. I don't know what to do." Eddie is back to glaring at his beer bottle. All Hen can do is stare. Trying to make him feel better but not wanting to tell him some lie and give him false hope. At the same time she has no clue how to help. She doesn't see a way to fix this not with Buck more than half way down the world.

"Hey Diaz, Wilson." Lena interrupts getting closer with a smile her face. She waves at them as she gets closer to their table.

"It's been a while." Hen says with a nod as greeting. She isn't very close to this fellow firefighter then again they barely interacted with each other. Even after these years. Hen will say she's not a bad person.

"It has." Lena smiles then turn to Eddie, "congrats Diaz." she slaps his shoulder roughly.

"For?" Eddie raises an eyebrow at her. Hunching over the table.

"The kids?" Lena raises an eyebrow. Her eyes go to Hen, who is staring at her. Lena can't stop the fear of her maybe exposing something she shouldn't have.

"What?" Eddie eyes grow wide, back straightening.

"Are they not? I bumped into Buckley, the twins looked a bit like you so I just assumed. Was I wrong?" Lena asks, scared she may have caused a problem.

"No. You're right. I didn't think it'd be obvious." Eddie says threading a hand through his hair.

"It wasn't, I just know you and Buckley were pretty close, and the twins looked like you. Baby boy glares like you too. I just pieced it together." Lena shrugs, glad to hear he knows and it's no problem.

"Thanks." Eddie goes back to hunching, bringing the opening of the beer bottle to his lips. Back to being upset.

"Did you talk to Buck?" Hen asks.

"Just for a bit. I saw how you guys treated him. It made me uncomfortable the way you taped my name over his. I wanted to set things straight." Lena attention goes to the other.

"It was really bad huh?" Hen says.

"It was but he seems to have grown, says he's made his peace. Says he lives in Peru now. Though no one seems to know that part." Lena says looking back to the group she is with.

"What do you mean?" Eddie tunes in, frowning in his confusion.

"About?" Lena turns to look at him.

"No one's knows what part?" Eddie asks.

"Who's no one?" Hen adds.

"Oh, you guys..." Lena looks between them, "Buckley return is what everyone's talking about and his kids. Well kid. I don't think anyone knows he has twins."

"Everyone?" Eddie eyebrows jump to his hairline.

"Yeah everyone. It was talked about a lot when he disappeared. Now he's magically shown up again. People are talking about it like crazy. You know all of us firefighters are gossips." Lena once again looks at the two, obviously they do not know.

"You don't think...?" Eddie looks over to Hen, face full of concern.

"Chim had Maddie and Jee to deal with. But Bobby... maybe." Hen thinks out loud.

Hen and Eddie stare at each other.

If it's gossip how long would it take to reach Bobby?

Chapter Text

It's a bit embarrassing but Bobby last a week.

It's hard not to think about it when he catches Athena and May cooing over something cute on the phone, happily showing each other then he walks in and they both go stone cold. Acting like what happen didn't.

Eddie and Hen are the same way. They'd he talking to each other then he gets close and they start talking stilted while texting. It hurts to see. His family is hiding something from him and it's on purpose.

He's gathered some information from just listening. He knows Buck is a carrier. The baby is Buck and Eddie. Chris loves his sibling. And lastly, Chris talks to Buck often. He knows Buck sends everyone pictures. He can tell when Eddie gets a picture. His lips crack into a small sad smile. Sometimes he grabs his earbuds to watch a video. Hen can tell easily as well because she asks to see.

Bobby knows he's got a lot to say sorry for to Buck but he would very much love just a picture. Just to see the baby. He's a grandfather. He understands Buck not wanting to see him, and he respects that choice but he would like a picture. He knows for a fact Athena has some saved on her phone.

So he sets dinner up for them both. Just them as May is out with her brother and father. As he is getting the table set he thinks about the way he should go about it. He shouldn't hold off as Athena will clock in that something is wrong immediately. But he doesn't want to jump into it.

"You've got something on your mind?" Bobby jumps turning to see Athena leaning against the shelf that divides the kitchen and living room. Bobby smiles, knowing she'd read him. Might as well get to it. Trying to brush it off will make it worse.

Bobby turns, going back into the kitchen to get their drinks. "I know. About Buck and his baby." Bobby says slow. Saying this out loud is so odd. He's known but he hasn't had anyone talk to him about it. Everyone has been congratulating him of course but no one says more than that. Saying it aloud makes it more real. It's no longer a fairy tale.

He turns back setting their drinks down, turning to see Athena watching him calmly. She doesn't seem to be surprised that he knows. "How long?" Athena asks moving forward to sit at her seat.

"A week and some days." Bobby says sitting himself.

"How did you learn?" Athena takes in the spread of food. Most are her favorite.

"Mehta congratulated me, when I asked he told me." Bobby answers honestly.

Athena just nods as she plates her food. "We knew this would happen. All the firefighters and even some cops have been talking about Buck." Athena says.

"Is it true?" Bobby voice cracks. Suddenly worried maybe it was fake.

"Which part?" Athena looks at her husband. Hands resting on the table as he stare down at his empty plate.

"Buck... has a baby girl?" Bobby turns to see Athena watching him.

After a while Athena speaks, "yes." she doesn't look away nor does she look guilty.

"And the father is Eddie?"

"Yes."

"Why didn't you tell me?" Bobby lets the hurt show in his voice.

"Bobby, I know Buck leaving hurt you. I also know Buck is mad at you. I didn't want to tell you he doesn't want you near... the baby. Both of them." Athena reaches over to place her hand on top of Bobby.

"Two?!" Bobby shouts looking at her wide eyed.

"He had twins."

"Both girls?"

"No. A boy and girl." Athena rubs her thumb over his knuckles.

"And he doesn't want me to see them." Bobby looks down. Sad once again.

"He doesn't. I know you feel bad already that he didn't want to see you, I knew this would hurt more." Athena continues stroking his knuckles with her thumb.

"It does but I understand." Bobby looks up to his wife's eyes. Showing her he's telling the truth.

"It's going to take some time. I know through Hen that Buck is still upset with Eddie but he's letting Eddie in for the twins and Chris." Athena tells Bobby hoping to make him feel better.

"Yeah, that sounds like Buck." Bobby says out loud taking a breath. "How is he really?"

"He's okay. The twins are well taken care of, he's got help where lives and he's happy." Athena says watching Bobby who stare at his plate. He's very glad his son has found happiness but hearing that is like a sucker punch to the gut. He can't help but wonder if Buck is happier in Peru. Which is a childish thought. He can't help it though. His son doesn't want to see him, or let him see his grandchildren.

"Can I ask more about them?" Bobby asks hopeful.

Athena watches him for a moment before smiling. "What do you want to know?"

"How old?" Bobby wonders plating food himself.

"A year and six months."

"Who do they look like?"

"A mix. Buck curly hair but in Eddie brown color. Blue eyes. Tan skin. They are adorable. And speak a lot in Spanish." Athena says. Bobby raises an eyebrow at that. "They love their mama very much." Athena smiles.

"Are they... like Buck?"

"Isabel is. Baby girl runs around and talks like no tomorrow. Damian is more like Eddie quiet and watching. He will do what he wants and will wonder off. Learned that the hard way." Athena smiles fondly.

"You must have spend a lot of time with him."

"I did but I brought them with me when I came back." Athena answers.

"But Buc-" Bobby pauses looking at his wife questioningly.

"Followed us. Three days later. He had work and had to make sure the house was good and his neighbor." Athena interrupts knowing what he'll ask.

"That's why you stayed away." Bobby eyes widen in understanding.

"I was watching them in Buck hotel room."

"Can you tell Buck I'm sorry." Bobby says, eyes pleading to his wife.

"I will." Athena sees Bobby face, they both know it's not enough but "it's a start." Athena reassures him.

Athena then hears a ping come from her phone. Looking at it her face twists. "Everything okay?"

"Nothing is wrong it's Eddie aunt. She wants to meet tomorrow." Athena types out a response, she has work but can schedule to see her during her break.

"Is it serious?"

"I don't think it is. They are most likely going to ask about the twins." Athena says says putting her phone after sending the message.

"They know?" Bobby looks stunned. He didn't think she would know.

"Eddie whole family knows. Eddie aunt and grandmother babysat while I was at work."

The rest of dinner is about the twins. Listening to Athena talk about them. Sadly no pictures. But it was nice to hear about them.

Eddie is cleaning his house. Fully deep cleaning, not the frenzy cleaning he did before. He got some music playing as he moves back the furniture in the living room. With one last move everything is back in place. He's about to admire his work with both hands on his hips when there is a knock on his door. He goes to open it, peaking to see who it is. His heart leaping into his throat at the sight of Athena in uniform.

Eddie frowns, sure he hasn't done anything wrong. "Uh, hi Athena." He greets opening the door more.

"Your aunt told me to meet her here." Athena smiles as she takes off her sun glasses.

"What! Why?" Eddie asks stepping aside to let her in.

"Said that she wanted to talk." Athena answers as Eddie closes his door. Turns around to see Athena looking around. When she's seen enough she turns to Eddie with a raised eyebrow. Eddie smiles sheepishly.

"I was slacking after Buck left." He answers walking to the couch. Athena gives him a smile. Understanding in her eyes. "Why are you meeting here? I'm sure Tia could give you her address." Eddie wonders walking to his couch.

"She wanted to meet here. Either she has news about Buck or she wants to talk about him." Athena says.

"Sure but I haven't heard anything about it." Eddie says raising his feet to rest on the coffee table. Only for it to fall right back to the to the floor. The coffee table to far. Eddie frowns sitting up. Looking down to see the table. It's exactly where it should be. Before he can contemplate about it the door is once again knocked on. Eddie gets up to answer the door. Taking a look over his shoulder.

"Eddito." His Abuela voice brings his attention to her and his tia standing there.

"Abuela. Tia Pepa." He gives both women a hug. They of course hug him and kiss his cheek. He steps aside to let them in. Once they catch Athena in the living room they rush to her, Eddie seemingly forgotten. He closes the door then joins them.

"It's good to see you both, but let's skip the pleasantries." Athena says kindly. Both older women nod, sitting down on the couch. Athena across from them on the coffee table.

"We know it's not your place." Tia Pepa starts looking hopeful.

"Buckito is mad at Eddito, and that he's private." Abuela adds looking just as hopeful.

"Yes. But we were wondering if you could perhaps give us his address." Tia finishes.

"You guys are going to Peru?" Eddie steps up. Dumbfounded they would want to. It's a long travel. He knows these two love Buck but... this seems a bit excessive.

"We talked about it and we want to go." Pepa places a hand on her mother's. Eyes on Athena who is only watching them.

"Okay but why?" Eddie wonders joining Athena on the coffee table.

"You and Buck may not be together anymore but he's family, more now that he had the twins." Tia pepa says with a small grin on her face, finally turning her gaze to her nephew.

"Él es más familia que esa mujer Shannon. Esa forastera nunca pensó en conocernos." (He's more family than that women Shannon. That outsider never thought to get to know us.) Abuela hisses in Spanish. Athena looks to Eddie for answers, not needing to know the language to pick up her hateful tone, who just shakes his head. Not blindsided by his grandmothers hate of Shannon. She never made an effort to get to know his family. And he knows why. They weren't together long, romantically, before she got pregnant. Then they were forced to be a family. He can see she never wanted that. Getting to know her before her death Eddie can now say Shannon was a free sprit. She shouldn't have been tied down. He doesn't blame her for keeping his family at an arms length. She didn't care for his family and obviously his family picked that up and threw it back.

"Eddito, we love him. We want to see him again and the twins. His visit wasn't enough." Pepa says with a smile.

"And that women Ana ruined my family gathering!" Abuela adds still very upset about that.

Eddie sighs out. "I knew Buck was your favorite." Eddie heart burst with a fond smile.

"Buckito is very charming. Like an angel." Abuela nods with a smile.

"He's also very handsome." Tia Pepa winks at Eddie who flushes.

"Tia!" Eddie screeches. Both older women laugh at him. Eddie covered his burning face.

"When do you plan to go?" Athena wonders.

"You'll give it to us?" Abuela wonders happily.

"I'll do you one better. I'll show you where he lives." Athena says.

"What about Bobby?" Eddie wonders looking at Athena. She just got back not that long ago and yet she wants to go again? He can't really fault her, Buck is her boy, they didn't know where he was or if he was okay for two whole years. The whole two years she tried to find him as well.

"It will be okay. He knows about the twins." Athena looks at him.

"Ah." Eddie nods in understanding. With how many gossips are in the fire department it's no wonder Bobby heard. "How did he take it?" Eddie can't imagine Bobby face when learning the man he thinks of as a son is a parent. Not to mention he didn't want to show the kids off to him.

"Better than we all thought. He understands why Buck doesn't want to see him or introduce him to the twins." Athena says, Eddie nods.

"We were waiting to hear what you said before we set a date." Pepa says knowing their conversation is over.

"We asks to meet here for you Eddito. We didn't want to go behind you back. This is your family." Abuela says staring at him. He didn't like it. It's like she can see something he can't. He doesn't know what though.

"I have to go but keep me informed. I'd like to be the one to show you where he lives." Athena stands with a smile. Eddie sits there watching as they say their goodbyes and thanks.

"Eddie."

"Eddie."

"Eddie."

"Diaz." That makes Eddie jump, turning to see Hen watching a bit worried to his side. Coffee cold in front of him. "I tried calling you for almost an hour, you okay?" Hen asks drinking her own mug of coffee.

"Sorry." Eddie shifts in his seat. "I'm just thinking."

"About?" Hen watches as Eddie looks around the loft. Seeing as Chim isn't here he looks back to Hen.

"My aunt and grandmother want to see Buck and the twins in Peru." He answers easily.

"Edd-" Hen jumps looking at Bobby at the other end of the table.

"He knows." Eddie interrupts moving to take a drink of his own cold coffee.

"Oh." She relaxes. "You do cap?" She asks looking at him. Bobby looks up.

"I do. I also know Athena volunteered to go with them." He says moving some papers to another stack.

"She's going again?" Hen looks at Bobby then Eddie.

"Abuela and Tia said it wasn't enough time. They want to see them again." Eddie says.

"Athena said the same thing." Bobby tells them, not looking up.

"I'm... thinking about joining them." Eddie says looking down at his cup.

"You haven't decided?" Hen wonders.

Eddie shakes his head. "I'd love to see them again. It'd even give me time to properly talk to Buck. I'd really like that and too see the twins but..." Eddie tilts his head, gaze on the floor.

"But?" Hen stresses the word.

"Chris." Eddie breathes out. "I know he'd want to come with us but I think it'd be best for him to stay. I mean he has school and... it's selfish but if he were there he'd monopolize Buck. Give him excuse to not talk to me." Eddie frowns, at himself, knowing how it sounds. "He also has school but it's mostly the other reason."

"That's reasonable." Hen says. "I can see that. I also agree, we didn't get nearly long enough with Buck."

"I've been stressing about it since. I want to go but if I did I wouldn't have someone watching Chris. I don't want to ask Carla. I know she'd do it, but she already takes care of us. I don't want to ask more of her."

"I'd offer but I kind of want to join you." Hen says.

"If you both do make sure to tell me so I can find subs." Bobby says.

"Really?" Hen asks. Bobby nods looking up at them.

"You both have been working hard for the last two years. With Buck leaving then Chim, and not being able to find a permanent replacement for either you both have stepped up. You deserve it." Bobby answers.

"Yay! Vacation." Hen smiles.

"And Eddie, if you're okay with it I can watch Christopher for you." Bobby looks at Eddie. 

"Are you sure? He'd be cranky about not being able to go." Eddie wonders to make sure.

Bobby shrugs, "then we have something to bond over."

"Thanks Bobby." Eddie says sincerely. Bobby gives Eddie a nod.

"Though it's getting late have either of you done your chores?" Bobby looks at them. Both freezes.

"Hen what have you gotten?" Eddie asks.

"Why?" Hen narrows her eyes.

"I'll trade you."

"What do you have?" Hen wonders leaning forward.

"I have a very rare video of two adorable toddlers drinking hot chocolate for the first time." Eddie says sly.

"Is it that adorable?" Her interest is peaked.

"Very. Just one is already cute, multiply that by two? Cuteness overload." Eddie says. Bobby smiles going back to his work. He'd take the deal.

"You're an evil man Diaz." Hen says, thinking really hard. Eddie smirks with a shrug of his shoulder.

"I'll add in a video of them seeing snow for the first time." Eddie adds. Hen gasps. Now she knows that must be cute. Hen can imagine all three wearing matching outfits. Something she noticed when seeing Buck and the twins.

"Deal." Hen says, knowing her and Karen will be gushing over the cuteness. Eddie smiles. Bobby shakes his head, smile still on his face.

"What deal?" Chim says joining them from the stairs.

"Nothing." Both of them say, getting up. Bobby stays silent watching them walk down the stairs. Chim only frowns. Bobby can see the hurt. He's upset about what Chim had said to Buck but he's not really in a place to criticize anyone. He greets the man as he slumps in his seat.

"Still mad?" Chim wonders.

"I guess." Bobby answers. "But it could be that they've gotten closer." Bobby adds because it's true. They have gotten close. Bobby has been told to not tell anyone, at this point it's just Chim and Maddie who don't know.

"I know it's because of what I said to Buck. He's still mad right?"

"We haven't done anything to show we're sorry. No apologies. And that is not enough. He's still mad at Eddie but putting it aside for Chris." Bobby answers.

"Shouldn't he do that for Maddie?"

Bobby shakes his head. "It's different. She's not a child."

"Jee is though."

Bobby shakes his head again. "It's still different. Buck didn't spend three or so years raising her with you and Maddie." Bobby tells him.

"I get it." Chim says.

After Christmas. After news year and a week after Valentines it's their trip.

What started out to be a three person trip turned into a six person trip. With Eddie ultimately deciding to go. And Karen wanting to as well. As much as Karen loves Buck and the twins she just wanted to go on vacation. So Denny is set in to stay with his grandmother for the nine days they'd he gone. With all that effort it took to get passports they wanted to make it last.

For Chris, Eddie decided to take Bobby on his offer. So here he is, at the Grant-Nash household. Eddie knocks, then looks over to a very grumpy Chris. He'd talked to Chris about it after making a decision, and with the date set, he sat down with his son and Carla. Chris of course asked to go. Eddie tried, really hard he may add, to let Chris down gently and calm. He used school as the main excuse, then Chris pushed and Eddie slammed his foot down. The answer is no and that's final. Chris of course was mad but soon it was forgotten about. Especially with calls to Buck.

Until this morning, where Eddie woke his son up at the crack of dawn to get ready. Chris, still in his pajamas, questioned what is going on. Eddie reminded him. At the reminder Chris mood came back. Trying to be stubborn he sat on his bed unmoving. Arms crossed and frown on his face. Eddie didn't argue with him, just got his own packed suitcase in the car then grabbed Chris packed suitcase, the one Carla knew to pack for him. Eddie is planning to bring a souvenir for her. Before finishing up Eddie goes back taking Chris shoes and some electronics with him so he's entertained a bit, putting them in the car. With their luggage's packed Eddie wordlessly picked Chris up and his crutches, walked them to the car. Still being stubborn, Eddie buckles him in. Eddie does give him a firm look to stay. He's not playing. After locking the house he runs back to his truck.

The drive of course is quiet.

Bobby answers the door. Eddie smiles while Chris frowns. Bobby smiles. "Come on in." Bobby steps to the side. With a loud huff Chris walks in. Bobby smiles because he knows where the attitude comes from.

"Sorry, he shouldn't be rude but call me if he does." Eddie says wheeling in Chris' suitcase with a backpack over his shoulder.

"I'll keep that in mind." Bobby says closing the door.

"He might fall back to sleep in a bit, maybe once he's calmed down. Carla has a spare so if you need anything from the house she'll be able to let you in." Eddie tells him as he sets the luggage near the couch. The backpack on the couch where Chris now sat. "Carla has you number right?" Eddie asks.

"Yes. We talked it over. I send her my schedule." Bobby answers watching Eddie. It is no secret that Eddie is a very good father but it's not often they see dad Eddie. Bobby himself is use to seeing firefighter Eddie.

"Just in time. Do you want to take my car or yours?" Athena asks walking out with her luggage. Eddie and Bobby stare. Athena stood with her sunglasses, a large straw sunhat on top of her head. A loose white blouse and stretchy ankle pants and sneakers.

"You look comfy." Bobby smiles.

"Learned from the first time." Athena says pushing her luggage forward.

"We'll take yours." Eddie says. Tuning away from the couple as they say their goodbyes. He focus on Chris. Eddie lets out a sigh. He catches the word 'letter' and 'Buck' from Bobby so he figures Bobby has made one himself. Eddie gets on one knee, facing Chris. "I know you want to come and I want to bring you but this trip is for us adults. Be good and I promise we'll go together some other time. Just us." Eddie says.

"Really?" Chris asks through his glasses.

"Yeah. But first we'd need to get you a passport. Then we can go as many times as you want." Eddie says.

"Promise?" Chris tilts his head as he stare at his father.

"Promise." Eddie holds his pinky up. Chris takes it with smile.

"Eddie." Athena calls his name. Eddie knows it's time to go.

"I love you mijo." Eddie hugs him, kissing his head. "I'll be back before you know it."

"Tell Bucky I love him, and I miss him."

"I will." Eddie presses one last kiss before getting up and following Athena.

Bobby waves at them before going to Chris who still looks upset. "Hey Chris, do you want breakfast?" Bobby wonders.

"Why can't I go?" Chris wonders looking up at Bobby.

"I want to go too but Buck is mad at me." Bobby smiles down at him.

"Like daddy?"

"Yes." Bobby is slightly shocked he picked it up, but kids are more perceptive than people think. Buck and Eddie must not be interacting like they use to. Which makes sense. "Your dad wants to fix it but he can't if you are there. Buck would only talk to you. He loves you and your dad wouldn't say anything. Why don't we let him try to fix it?"

"Okay. I want him and Bucky to be happy like they were."

"I do too." Bobby agrees. "Do you want breakfast?" Bobby asks but as an answer all he gets is a yawn. "Why don't we get you set up. Harry has allowed you to use his room." Bobby smiles getting up.

Chris nods as his eyes droop. Bobby smiles watching as Chris gets up. Making sure he won't get hurt.

Eddie and Athena walk forward looking around the busy airport for the rest of their entourage. They have thirty minutes before the flight gets seated. Athena and Eddie having eaten breakfast on the drive over.

It was... a new experience. As neither really have moments together. They do not really talk to each other. Even at scenes or during the Grant- Nash family BBQ. Eddie of course is polite but there's nothing. It was also odd being the passenger princess to someone other than Buck. He was both scared and felt like he was a child. Luckily on the way back both will be too tired to care. At least Eddie knows for him it would be.

Eddie catches sight of his grandmother. "Abuela." he calls with a smile. As they get closer he sees his aunt sitting next to her, both waiting by the gate. They look at him with a smile. "You both got here early."

"We are both very excited." Tia Pepa says. Eddie nods, as excited as he is he's actually also very nervous. Without Chris Buck wont be happy to see him.

"Oh lord. Not you too." Turning around then spot Hen and Karen. Hen is looking at Athena like she can't believe it. Seeing Karen they see why. Large straw hat, larger than Athena. Sunglasses. Thick strap tank top and stretchy ankle pants as well. Athena and Karen seem to have been sharing the same brain cell.

"I don't make the same mistakes." Athena answers.

"I'm just being prepared." Karen says.

"So is Buck picking us up?" Hen wonders setting her things down. Karen joining her, handing her wife a wrapped meal and water bottle.

The silence stretches.

"Buck does know we're coming?" Hen wonders.

"I thought someone told him." Athena looks to Eddie knowing he's in contact with Buck, for Chris.

Eddie blinks then looks at his Abuela and Tia. He thought they would. It was their idea.

Abuela looks at Athena. She knows where he lives.

"I don't think he'd be to upset with a surprise." Karen points out.

"Maybe not but I was hoping he'd booked a hotel for us considering he lives there." Hen points out.

"We can always ask when we get there." Karen says.

"Won't he be at work?" Eddie says.

"I don't think so." Athena says, but who knows how his schedule is. "I guess we'll see." Athena says.

"What does Buckito do?" Pepa wonders.

"He never did say." Abuela adds.

Chapter Text

After what feels like the longest plane ride ever, the group of six are in a car driving to Buck's house. The anticipation is thick in the air. Karen the most excited of them all.

It all works out, three Spanish speakers with three non-Spanish speakers. Eddie is driving behind Athena, both able to rent cars. In his car are his aunt and grandmother. Hen and Karen with Athena. Eddie can't help the way his thumb continues to thump against the steering wheel. He has no clue how this will go. Now more nervous than before considering they are surprising Buck. He hardly thinks Buck would welcome him in as a surprise. He was also less nervous before cause they weren't in Peru yet. Now he is. He can only hope for the best.

"Eddito, it will be okay." Abuela says from where she's sitting next to him. Eddie smiles but keeps his eyes on the road. Eye on the car in front of them. Athena's rental. He takes a look around the streets. And he has to agree with Athena. Honestly it's just like any other city. Streets. Buildings. Trees. Houses. There's mountains. The sky is blue and the grass is green. Though even Eddie can see the bright colors of the very tightly packed houses on the mountains with their bright red, blues and yellows.

They pass a small plaza, that seems packed. Turning onto a street, as they do Eddie takes a look behind them in the rearview mirror seeing the flashing lights of a bright red fire engine, turning to the plaza. Then they turn down another street.

Athena parks in between two houses, Eddie parking behind her, being mindful of the driveway to the garage of the house. Everyone exits the cars. They all watch Athena. She takes a look around, sunglasses on her face hiding where she's looking. Then she closes the door, walking around the car. They follow her of course, stopping when she steps up to short fence, undoing the small gate and walking up the walkway to the door. The group stop, staring at the house.

"Athena." Karen calls her name. "This is where Buck lives?" Voice nervous and eyes widening to take it all in.

"Yes. And it seems he's not here. His jeep isn't in the driveway." Athena says walking back to them after trying to peek inside. "He's either at work or out with the twins." Athena can only guess.

"Athena, this house is huge." Karen points.

"And it's the only big one on the block. Every house around has been... normal?" Hen says looking around to the smaller houses.

"Don't ask me. I don't know. All I know is this is Buck's house. He was here when I last came." Athena tells them. They take a step back to get a good look at the house. It's a mix of old and modern. The roof is tiled with light brownish red tiles. With white washed walls. It's ranch style but large, with an overhang and wooden poles to hold it up. A fence lining the property, stopping at the drive way to the large garage. There's flower bushes and trees, with a green front lawn. The front door is a dark reddish brown. It's a very beautiful house.

"Pardon me." A young woman calls to them, looking at them suspiciously. Her voice young, she looks like a teenager. "Can I help you?" She wonders eyeing them.

"Ah, we're visiting the person who lives here but it seems like he's at work." Athena answers. 

"We are family." Abuela steps up. The young lady nods her head.

"Buck is at work." She answers easily, they can hear the stilted tone in her voice. She doesn't like them. And she obviously knows Buck considering she called him Buck and not by his birth name.

"The twins?" Hen wonders.

"One moment." The women jogs to the neighbors house. She knocks loudly. "Abuela!" she shouts. She check if the door is open seeing it is she pokes her head inside looking around for a while before stepping over to the side of the house to see into the back yard. Stepping forward before coming to them. "I think Abuela took them to the plaza." She says. She gives them all a look over. They can feel the judgement in her eyes. "Welcome to Lima Peru." She says with a lot of sarcasm. She continues to walk forward, pulling out her phone.

"Wait!" Eddie calls. "When does Buck get off work?"

"Don't know. Ask abuela." She shouts not stopping or turning around as she continues to walk.

"And where are you going?" Pepa wonders with a raised eyebrow.

"The plaza." She answers. They all jerk forward rushing to catch up to her. She doesn't look back, nor does she talk to them. It makes Karen and Hen frustrated but at the same time they can't say anything.

The plaza isn't far, they did drive by it but no one really paid attention to it as they were driving to Buck's home. It's full, like they saw but they don't get a chance to take it all in when the teenager keeps walking forward, obviously knowing where to go. They watch as she leads them to a juice bar. Like a tiki hut but with no straw. It's wooden with an almost dark blue color that fading. Coconuts and melons hang from the overhang. There's glasses of liquor inside, with juices, blenders and a large horizontal fridge, the white faded and a logo coming off. There isn't even a name to the bar. Sitting at the counter are two toddlers and an older women happily talking to the worker, an older man.

They watch as the teenager sneaks up behind the twins. She scares them, causing them to shout and jump almost falling off the high stool. The old women and teenager holding them to make sure they don't. Both twins look at her with glares as she laughs. She greets them all with a smile. There's a familiarity in her tone. The twins going back to drinking out of their tropical juice.

"Supongo que están contigo." (I'm guessing they're with you.) The older man wonders motioning to them with a nod to his head.

The teenager nods. "Están aquí por Buck." (They are here for Buck.) She says. The man hums looking at them like they don't like them already.

"Athena, it's good to see you." Esperanza greets with a smile.

"You too, Esperanza. I hope you all had a wonderful holiday." Athena walks forward.

"I did. I hope you had a good one as well. I heard all about the twins adventure with you." Esper grins taking a look at the twins who are looking at something else. 

"I'm sure you did." Athena smiles, knowing Isabel would have talked her ear off.

"How long are you staying this time?" Esper asks taking a look at the others.

"Nine days."

"Buck doesn't know you are here does he?" she wonders looking at them all with a knowing smile. Buck would have told her.

"He does not. There might have been a slight error in our communication." Athena smiles.

"Mija did you tell them about Buck?" Esperanza looks over at the teenager.

"Yes. He's at work." She answers leaning against the bar counter, bored and looking meanly at the guest. Esperanza gives her a look, one she turns to look away from.

"Sorry about her. This is Faustina. Her and her mother live further up the street than us. She's close to Buck." Esper says with a shake of her head.

"Of course, he's-" She starts.

"Mama!" the twins shout at the same time.

"Where?" Faustina asks getting down to their eye level looking around.

"There." Isabel Jr points. All eyes go to the bright red Engine. An ambulance door is closed as two firefighters in bright orange turnouts and black boots walk to the engine. Talking to each other as they walk to the fire engine. "¡Abajo! ¡Por favor!" (Down! Please!) Isabel Jr whines arms up to get down. Big blue eyes pleading to be let down in the stool. Faustina gets her hand under either armpit and lifts her up and down onto her white ankle wrapped sandals with a white flowers.

"Por favor." (Please.) Damian asks softly, also raising his arms up. Esperanza sets him down. He lands on his thereabouts brown flow strap sandals. Both twins wearing green shorts and and yellow tops. Damian a boy tank top, an embroidered dinosaur on it, while Isabel wore a thick strap top with the neckline having frills, the hem having small green flowers. The twins run forward, Faustina and Esperanza following behind them.

The group watch carefully as the twins run to the firefighters doubling as traffic cones. One facing them as he talk to the other with his back towards them.

"Mama!" Isabel shouts happily and excited.

"Mama!" Damian shouts more desperate but equally as happy.

The firefighter facing them tilts his head. He smiles, looking at the man he's talking to. He says something to the other fighter with a smile on his face. The firefighter with his back facing them twists immediately. His gaze going down to the two toddlers running to him. The brightest grin lights his face as he gets on his knees, opening his arms as the twins jump into them. The twins happily jump into them. He stands up kissing them causing them to smile and laugh, kissing him back.

Esperanza gets closer so them. Buck greet her, leaning over so she pinches his cheek. Damian playing with his helmet. Buck says something back. He sets them down, placing his helmet on Damian who giggles. Buck coworker plays and talks to Isabel, placing his helmet on her. Then proceeds to lift her up, who giggles as she is lifted by her arms. He sets her feet down, she bends her knees, ready to jump up, the man lifting her high. Damian clings to Buck pants as he watch.

Faustina frowns coming into the talk with her arms crossed. Buck smiles, petting her hair messing it up. She swats at his hands causing Buck to grin.

Eddie watches as Buck co worker tilts towards Buck to say something to him, Buck answers back. The man smiles shoving Buck with his elbow. Buck shoves back. Eddie feels a pang in his chest. That use to be him and Buck. BuckandEddie. That's who they were. Now they are Buck and Eddie. Two separate people. Almost worlds away.

He can't even blame the lawsuit for that because they hadn't been like that since... well before. It's been since the fire truck bombing. All because of that kid, Freddie if Eddie remembers. Buck wanted to be like that again, and Eddie had to be an asshole about it. He misses it so bad.

Someone comes from the other side of the engine, with the air around him they can assume he's the captain. He tells the two something before getting down to the twins level to say something to them. Damian gets closer to Buck but still talks. The captain burst with laughter at something Isabel says. He reaches into his pockets pulling out candies. He gives one to Damian and the other to Isabel. Buck tells them something to which they agree.

He tells something to Esper, then gives a look to Faustina. She doesn't look happy about whatever he has to say but she nods. Buck squats to give kisses and hugs to the twins. He and his co worker take back their helmets. Esper grabs hold of one of their hands pulling them back so Buck can finish working.

The group watch as Buck and the other firefighters move to get the truck packed. Esper, Faustina and the twins walk back to the juice bar. With everything packed Buck joins the other in getting inside. "See you at home cousin!" Faustina yells. Buck turns around eyes on her. He smiles with a nod. Jumping into the cabin, ready to get to the fire station.

Eddie and his family are confused by the cousin declaration but choose not to voice their confusion. Does it matter? No.

The twins turn, finally seeing the group. But their eyes land on a certain someone. Their eyes widen. They rush forward, Esper letting them go, "Papa!" They shout running to Eddie. His heart pounds. They are so cute, and he'll never get tired of them calling him papa. As he gets down on his knees to hug them, he feels the glare and ire from one of the eyes on him. He doesn't need to look to know who it's from. She really seems to hate him. He sort of hates himself as well.

"¿Por qué no terminan su jugo y luego nos vamos a casa a cenar?" (Why don't you two finish your juice then we'll go home for dinner.) Esper says. The twins nod. Easily agreeing. Eddie sets the twins back on the stool to finish.

"¿Cuándo termina Buck el trabajo?" (When does Buck finish work?) Eddie asks eyes on the twins racing to see who can finish first. He smiles at them.

"Dijo que llegará un poco tarde hoy." (He said he'll be a little late today.) Esper says.

"¿Siempre los cuidas?" (Do you always watch over them?) Abuela asks.

"Sí. Buck me ayuda en mi casa, así que cuido a sus hijos. Pero hay ocasiones en las que Faustina los cuida por Buck." (Yes. Buck helps me around my house so I babysit for him. But there are time Faustina watches them for Buck.) Esper looks at Faustina watching the twins race.

"We all help Buck where we can. He's helped us." She says giving a side eye to Eddie.

"¡Gano!" (I win!) Damian celebrates happily.

"Oh. Otra vez." (Oh. Again.) Isabel demands getting a crease in her eyebrows, the similar face of a determined Buck.

"No. It's time to go home." Esperanza says firmly, leaving no argument.

"Kay." The twins say at the same time. Damian happily but Isabel dejected. Eddie gives a goodbye to the older man running the juice bar who just gives him a look.

Yeah, no one who knows Buck is going to like the baby daddy who left Buck with twins. He's a deadbeat in their eyes. He knows it wasn't Buck who put those thoughts in their head. They must have come to that conclusion themselves.

He'll be here for nine days so maybe that will change.

He can only hope and pray, something he hasn't done in so long.

Eddie is walking in front of the group, the twins walking hand in hand in front of him. Esperanza and abuela are talking. Getting to know each other. And he wont tell anyone, maybe he will Buck just to see him laugh, but his grandmother felt a little threatened by Esperanza. He heard it from Tia Pepa that she wanted to see the 'women who is taking care of her little munchkins.' He also heard it in the car, her ranting about what this women must be like. Her hate for Ana increased, blaming her for the twins leaving. And Eddie can not argue that because it's true. The twins don't have enough stories of her to tell.

All Eddie can think is 'oh this is where I get my possessiveness from.'

Tia Pepa is talking to both Hen and Karen. And the tail is Faustina who is glaring at Eddie. Her eyes are burning a hole into the back of his head. As much as he wants the people Buck has in his life to like him he also doesn't give a damn. She doesn't know him. She can kiss his ass for all he cares. She doesn't know the truth. He's here for Buck and the twins not her or anyone else.

Eddie slows in his steps as Isabel Jr stops walking. Damian stopping as they are holding hands. "¿Qué pasa?" (What's wrong?) Eddie gets down to see her face, it scrunched up.

"¡Necesito orinar!" (I need to pee!) She looks up at Eddie with her blue eyes, they look wet. Ready to cry.

"Can you hold it?" Esperanza asks.

"Baby daddy can take her. He's a firefighter right?" Faustina says. All eyes on her. She rolls her eyes at them. "Abuela's door is open just go in there."

Eddie watches her, she looking neutral at him, like she doesn't care about him. But of course they'd don't want Isabel to cry. Eddie nods. "Sorry for intruding. Thanks." Eddie carries Isabel in his arms and runs forward. He runs the rest of they way down the street then turns. He runs past Buck's house to Esperanza's house. Rushing in, not caring about his shoes, walking in trying to find the bathroom.

"Bwah." Isabel lets out as she goes. Eddie on his knees getting in a breath.

"¿Mejor?" (Better?) He asks her. She smiles at him with a nod.

"Need help?" Eddie asks. She just shakes her head as she swings her legs. "I'll be outside."

"Kay."

Eddie walks out closing the door but leaving it cracked open so he can still hear. He takes deep breaths in. Now that he's not in a rush and with a single goal he takes a look around.

The simple two room house. There are pictures of people he's never seen before. He walks until he's at the front door, where by the door is a picture frame of Buck and the twin when they are younger.

"Papa!" Isabel yells at him. With a grin he goes to her. He opens the door to see her wet hands trying to reach the towel. Eddie gets it for her. "Gracias." (Thank you.) She smiles.

Once her hands are clean Eddie picks her up, walking to the door unsure if they should still be here. He feels very uncomfortable standing in someone house, especially one he doesn't know and they aren't here. He does hear the sound of people talking so he decides to walk out. Seeing the group stopping in front of Buck's house.

Esperanza spots him coming out of her house. "Made it in time?" She asks as she unlocks the door, a smile on her face.

"All good." Eddie says walking around the fence with Isabel in his arms.

He's at the back of the group as they slowly shuffle into the house.

"Wow!" Karen stares in awe at the space of the living room. An off white blue wallpaper. Pictures lay everywhere. A nice couch, a single recliner, a dark wooden coffee table. Dark hardwood floors covered by a large greenish rug. They take time to look at each picture. Eddie sees his abuela breath and grab a picture frame. Curious he goes over to see what has her eyes teary. Getting closer he sees why. Buck has a picture of Abuela, Pepa and the twins up. He looks around to see there are some of him and Chris, Chris and the twins. There's even one of him in it.

Eddie sets Isabel down, as she was squirming, to get a look at the other pictures. Taking a look at the house. It feels like Buck. Like his family. One that doesn't include him, barely includes Chris.

"This is a large kitchen." Hen says standing by the separated kitchen and dining room. The dining room has a sliding door to close it off from the living room. The kitchen having two entrances. There's even a foyer for the back door. The curtains open showing off the beach. The back patio is a dark wood to match the floorboards.

"Very spacious." Abuela says.

"I kind of don't want to go to a hotel." Karen says looking at Hen with a smile.

"How did Buck afford this? He dropped the lawsuit. Right?" Hen looks at Athena.

Athena and Eddie catch the way Esperanza and Faustina look at each other. "I never got to asks so I'm not sure. But you both seem to know something." Athena points out. The two stare at each other, communicating through their eyes.

Faustina huff looking at them, eyes on Athena, eyeing them like they are all idiots. "Buck own the land this house is built on, including the beach. Don't asks us more. Talk to Buck."

"It's not our place." Esperanza adds. "Now enough of that. We have to make dinner and then the twins have to get to bed. I'll also get your room set up if you want." Esperanza says with a smile. Faustina sits down at the dining table, a smile on her face.

"What are you making?" She asks excited.

"Is your mom working?" Esperanza wonders getting an apron on.

"Yes. Some big project for important clients."  Faustina say with a slight frown on her face.

"I see. Didn't want to be home alone?" Esperanza moves in the kitchen, it being open for the dining room.

"Yeah. My school work is done too." Faustina says leaning over the table.

"Then why don't you busy yourself with getting the guest some drinks." Esperanza says giving her a side eye.

"Of course abuela." She huffs getting up. She turns to the group. "What do you guys want to drink?" She doesn't sound happy about asking them.

"I'll just have a water." Athena says. 

"Juice?" Karen wonders.

They all join at the table. Giving her their drink choice. Eyes going to the twins playing in the living room. They watch as the two move around the kitchen fluidly. Obvious that they are here a lot. More than a lot. Faustina comes back with a tray of their drinks. She places a coaster for them all. Then hands them their drink. After getting the first sip of the ice cold drink they felt a relief they didn't know they needed. Traveling most of the day has left them thirsty and hungry. Their tummies rumbling as the scent of food wafts through the air. It all smelling so good. They make small talk. Abuela moving to help.

When the food is close to getting done Esper gets the twins to go wash their hands. Then she gets them in their high chairs. Faustina sets down the placemats, Athena standing to help. Handing out the placemats. Faustina then sets down the plates. Next the utensils. Esper gets the twins their own plates and utensils. Karen can't help but coo at them.

Abuela finishes the cooking. Faustina and Pepa helping. Esper and abuela on either side of the twins, plating the food for them. Then the adults get fed. Clatter is filled in the room. Happy groans and moans. The food delicious.

Even after the plates are wiped clean, they sit to talk. The pitchers that held juice, lemonade, and some fruit punch are now half empty. Abuela catching the twins yawning.

Seeing the sun has gone down, the outside dark. It's time to get ready for bed. Abuela and Pepa get the twins into the bath and dressed, Esper pointing out where to go. Eddie joins to watch the twins bath time. The bath is large. With cartoon stickers littering the tiles around the tub with toys.

Esperanza moves around the rest of the house getting the rooms ready for guests. Faustina in the kitchen with Athena doing the dishes. Karen and Hen on the couch.

Eddie watches with a smile as the twins are swaddled with goofy towels. One corner of the towel has a hood with a face. An animal face. Damian has a lion while Isabel has a purple frog. Both are wrapped in the towel enough that the only thing seen is their face, the hood over their hair. Large smiles plastered on their face. Abuela and Pepa giggling at them. He joins them in getting the twins dry, lotion, hair blow dried and dressed. Tia does Isabel Jr hair. Cute buns on either side of her head.

The twins put up a fight, wanting to stay awake to see Buck home. The fight tires them out some more. Eddie looks around taking in their room, the love put into the room. The olive green wallpaper, the toys, toy chest. Decorations. Books. Their beds are low, the bed frame is on the floor. If they fall they wont get hurt. Their beds are apart but not too far.

The twins fall asleep as soon as they get comfortable. Eddie stays to watch them. He hasn't got to do this. Athena always came to pick them up before he can do or see bedtime. After feeling he's watched enough Eddie gets up, walking out. Closing the door just a slit. He goes into the living room to see abuela, Pepa and Esper are talking in the living room. Faustina is sitting by the window.

"Where are the others?" Eddie wonders.

"In their rooms." Pepa says.

"Are you guys not tired?" Eddie wonders seeing they don't seem ready to go to bed.

"We're waiting for Buck." Faustina answers not turning around.

"I'd like to get him some food before I leave." Esperanza says. Eddie nods. Carla does the same with him. She leaves when she knows he's fed.

"How long has he been a firefighter?" Eddie asks, knowing he should have known. Buck loves firefighting. Of course he found a way to get back to it. Found a new family.

"A year?" Esper says looking at Faustina for a second opinion.

"Two months after the twins were born he started firefighting." Faustina answers without looking away.

"He's been working since." Esperanza says. A bit proud of Buck but there's a sadness in her eyes.

Faustina sits up. "He's home." She says excited.

"I'll get his plate ready." Esper goes into the kitchen.

They wait for a couple minutes before the door opens and in comes Buck. He looks a bit tired but not drained. He smiles at everyone. Then pauses when his eyes land on Eddie. He blinks his surprise. After a long minute he gives a nod.

Faustina gives him a long side hug. He hugs back as he sets his duffel to the side. Toes off his shoes. After getting enough hugs she lets go and goes to the kitchen.

"Are the twins asleep?" He asks looking at them.

"Yeah Buckito, welcome home." Abuela says, Buck beams at her.

"Are you all set up?" Buck asks, caring like always.

"We will be staying with Esperanza instead." Pepa answers.

"You're not staying here?" Eddie asks his grandmother and aunt. That's news to him.

"We thought it best, there are already so any people here." Abuela says.

"Would you like me to get your luggage in Abuela house?" Buck says.

"No need. Eddito will do it." Tia Pepa says.

Eddie smiles. "I need to get my own luggage anyway." Eddie says. Buck nods, and Eddie can't read the look on Buck face. He's just staring. And it's weird. He should be able to perfectly read Buck, understand what's going on his head. It's all wrong. As if the sky turned green and grass is orange.

"Buck come eat." Faustina calls him.

"Right, let me check the twins first." Buck says.

"We should get ready for bed." Pepa says to her mother.

"Aye yes. I think the others fell asleep already." Abuela stands up from the couch.

Eddie goes with them to get their luggage. He helps them inside, that's as far as he goes before they shoo him away. Giving him a short pep talk about talking to Buck. He shakes his head, giving them kisses on the cheek before getting his own luggage. On his way inside he meets Esper who tells him where his room would be. On his way there he catches Buck inhaling his food while Faustina talks to him. Eddie decides to get ready for bed. Finding his room to have a small full bathroom. A toilet, sink, and shower. There's no tub and everything is tight. But he doesn't need a lot of space.

Eddie decides to use it. Hopefully he'll have a chance to talk to Buck one on one after his shower.

Chapter Text

Eddie rubs the towel in his hair, drying his hair. It has gotten longer in the last two years. Not too long, can't with him being a firefighter.

He sets the towel on his bed, making his way out to the kitchen, hoping to find Buck there. He'll use the excuse of getting some water before he falls asleep.

The shower he had was nice and relaxing. The water pressure was just right. And the space is nice. It may look tight from a glance but it's doesn't feel claustrophobic. It's nice.

He walks out, only pausing for a second when he sees that it's dark. There is no light, especially not from the kitchen. But he doesn't hear anymore noises. He walks more towards the dining room, only to stop in front of the back door. The curtains pulled back, and one small light is turned on. The glass sliding door is open half way. The screen curtain blowing with the sound of the waves.

In the distance he can see two figures. Both sitting on the sand. They are very close to the shore. One figure he clocks in instantly as Buck. The other is Faustina. He's too far away to hear or see much but he can see Faustina punch Buck in the arm. And he catches Buck pulling his head back in laughter. Curious Eddie walks out.

He doesn't get that far out before Buck and Faustina are turning and looking at him. At the same time they stand up. Eddie continues to them.

"I'm going to get ready for bed." Is what Buck tells them, but he faces Faustina.

"I'll see you tomorrow cousin." She waves him off. They both watch him go into the house. Eddie stands there watching. Unsure what to do. He takes a look at Faustina, wondering if he should walk her home, he's not an asshole even if he doesn't care for her. At the same time he doesn't think she would appreciate him being with her. "How frustrating." Is all he hears before a fist comes flying to him.

It hits him square in the chest. He blinks because... well... it didn't hurt. It was like having a pillow thrown at him. Which he would expect, her arms are like that of a noodle. She hits him again. And again. She looks like a child giving him a tantrum. Because she is. She's only sixteen. There's so much a head of her.

"It's frustrating." She sniffs. Eddie freezes. Because what does he do. He hardly knows her. And Buck cares for her. He doesn't want Buck to think he made her cry. Eddie gets a flashback of the grocery store.

"What is frustrating?" Eddie wonders not moving from her fist pounding his chest.

"You! Buck's so called family. You are all nice so how can you do that to Buck? Leave Buck too..." She bites her lip, looking away as she finally pulls back. Using both hands to wipe her tears away.

"We know we fucked up. It's why we don't want to let him go." Eddie says watching her. Still not sure she wants Eddie close or to comfort her.

"What's most frustrating is..." she lets out a sob, "if you guys didn't push him away Buck never would have saved me." She stares right at Eddie. Grieve plain as day on her face, but there's also gratitude. Eddie is obviously confused, and it must be obvious on his face. "I hate that you guys hurt Buck but I'm glad you did because he was there for me." Faustina sinks to the floor, knees digging into the sand.

Slowly, Eddie slowly sits down next to her. Watching as she wipes her face. "What happened?" He asks because he's noisy and curious. And when it comes to Buck he wants to know everything there is to know about him.

"It was two years ago. During the holidays." Faustina pulls her knees to her chest, wrapping her arms around her knees. "My dad left me and mom for another women when I was ten. After that she decided to dust off some degree she had before my parents married. It was hard. For her. Going from a stay at home mom to working while taking care of me. I know she did her best, but we needed the money which meant she was working." Faustina takes a deep breath in then out. "All the time. It hurt, my mom who was always there wasn't. So two years ago, I got fed up. It was holidays. Everyone had their families. But me. A couple of my friends, well, not friends anymore. I joined the wrong crowd an purpose. There was no one at home anyway." Eddie frowns. That can't have been good. Still doesn't know where Buck comes in but he'll let her talk. "We went to the beach. It was dark, like it is now. But we weren't the only ones there. Buck sat away from us. We ignored him. And he ignored us. We were loud. Buck just kept sitting there. Shoes neatly set by his side. It was odd, he didn't look like he was there to swim, and he looked... off. Anyway," she shakes her head, "I was dared to go into the water. I knew it was a bad idea but... I didn't care. Or I thought I didn't. I went in the water and... I got caught by some seaweed. I was getting dragged down, I tried calling for help. I don't know what happened. One moment I was watching them start to gather their things and then darkness. The cold, the crushing weight. When I woke up I was in the hospital."

"Buck saved you." Eddie says proud but his mind is on her describing Buck alone on the beach. It couldn't have been okay for him considering at the time he and Chris were not completely over the tsunami. Why was he there?

"He did. And he stayed with me in the hospital. Stayed all night with me, until I woke up." Faustina then smiles. "When the doctors asked who he was to me he blurted out cousin." Eddie chuckles. Of course he'd help her until he knew she is safe. "He stayed with me until the doctors said I was okay, but they wanted to watch me. Overnight stay. I tried to deny that and get home. I didn't want mom to deal with the hospital bill. I was already there I didn't want to add to it. He told me to rest, he'll take care of me, after all that's what cousins do." The smile on Faustina's face is fond. "I laughed so hard my stomach hurt. I haven't been cared for in a long time. So I let him do it. It was selfish but he didn't seem to mind. But I can tell he wasn't fully there. Then he threw up and about passed out in my hospital room. I was freaking out. Thinking somehow I killed him. I was hysterical." She gives a huff with a shake of her head. "I kept yelling 'my cousin! Is he hurt? My cousin!' We ended up switching spots. Him on the bed with me on the chair next to it. That's... that's when the doctor told him he's pregnant. A carrier. He was as shocked as I was. We looked at each other, as if asking one another if we just heard that correctly. The doctor told him he was twenty three, almost twenty four weeks pregnant. Buck face turned red, he was holding in his emotions so hard. It's funny to think about now. After I was released he took me back to his car, the jeep. He drove me to the plaza and practically kicked me out."

"What?" Eddie doesn't believe her.

"It felt like it. I told him I lived nearby and he parked. I asked him why, he looked at me as if I was crazy. Told me it was dangerous to tell strangers, especially day old cousins, my address. I laughed again, it felt like we knew each other for so long that I forgot. I did leave. Got halfway home before I turned back, hoping he'd still be at the plaza. I don't know what I was hoping for. Guess I didn't want to be alone again." Faustina shrugs.

"Did you find him?" Eddie wonders.

"Not at first. I went around hoping to find him until I did, sitting at the juice bar. Drinking a smoothie. I came up to him to talk. I'm sure he needed to let something off his chest, plus he just learned he is a carrier, I wanted to be a shoulder for him to lean on. I'm sure be paid for my hospital bill. Jose, the juice bar owner, you saw him." She says to which Eddie nods. "gave us drinks and we talked. Buck talked a lot. About how he didn't know he is a carrier, about the baby, his stupid parents, then he cried over you guys. The people he calls family. Jose and I just looked at each other. We had no clue how to make him feel better. So we listened. We had smoothies and juice, then we has some food from a truck near by. It was fun. Even if it was emotional. For a moment I forgot about home. But then it got late." Faustina lays back, eyes on the stars. "I went home and didn't see him after that. I thought maybe he went back to the states. Then, imagine my surprise coming home one day to see him on the same street. I called out to him. He looked happier. Learned he'd bought this house. He was talking to someone about reconstructing it. I came by almost every day to see him. Because of him we got to know abuela. She needed help with something so we volunteered. And now we're here." She says.

"Does your mom still not know?" Eddie asked worried they might get in trouble or something.

"She does. After Buck's house was completed I went over, I had not noticed my mom was home that day. She followed me. Abuela was helping plant some flowers. Obviously I joined and we were just talking and laughing when my mom stepped up. I told her about what had happened, how Buck stayed with me, that he now lives here. Mom had a talking with me when we got home but after that it's been us."

"Was Buck showing? The twins?" Eddie wonders.

"No, sure he has no abs like he does now, but he wasn't round. He was just muscled with pudge around his middle. We went with him to one of his ultrasounds. That's when we learned he was having twins. He was scared of course. He's never had to take care of a baby before and now he's got two. But abuela promised to be there for him. I said I'd help. Once he got into the third trimester, he popped. He was... large." She whispers. Eddie smiles out to the sea. As much as he would have loved to be there he wasn't, and it's frustrating but it's nice to hear about it.

At least Buck didn't go through it alone. He has a support system.

Eddie groans as he opens his eyes. He reaches over with squinted eyes for his phone. He sees the time and his eyes snap open, pushing the covers off his body to get up. Only to pause at the room. First off it's not his. Second, he's not at home. He sags where he sits.

He pulls his phone up to see what time it is in the states. Chris is at school. It's a wonder he slept in. Eddie takes a breath. Taking a listen for his surroundings. He doesn't hear anything. He gets up deciding to get something to eat and maybe find Buck so they can talk. Out in the hallway he hears some shuffling around. Someone's here. He follows the sound to the kitchen where he finds Buck moving around.

"Here's the thing we started out friends, it was cool, but it was all pretend." Eddie smiles getting closer as Buck sings, he's off key with a voice too deep but Eddie sort of misses it. All they need is Chris giggling from the dining table and it'll be like no time at all has past.

"But since you've been gone! I can breathe for the first time, I'm so moving on, Yeah! Ye-AHHH!" Buck screams as he catches Eddie there. He places a hand over his heart while the other holds himself up on the counter. "Fuck, Eddie." Buck breaths as Eddie holds in a laugh. "Jesus you almost gave me a heart attack."

"Sorry. It's just... been a while." Eddie says looking around. Buck doesn't say anything. "Where is everyone else?"

"Karen and Hen went to sightsee, abuela and... abuela," Buck frowns, because that's a little confusing. "They went to some... old people gathering. Athena and Pepa have the twins and are going to have fun with them." Buck says. "You hungry? You slept through breakfast." Buck looks at Eddie who hasn't looked away from Buck since he started talking.

"Yes." Eddie says, then his stomach rumbles. "Please." He adds on.

He watches as Buck hums to the rest of the song. Moving around the kitchen. "I'm sorry." Eddie says. Buck's movements slow down but he doesn't stop.

"I know. You said that in your letter." Buck states.

"I'm also seeing a therapist." Eddie adds. Buck frowns, taking a second to look at him, then looks back at his hands.

"I know. That was also in your letter." Buck reminds Eddie. Who feels the back of his neck heat up. He's happy to get the chance to talk but what does he say? Everything he wanted to say was in the letter.

"I don't know what to do to make you forgive me." Eddie decides to go with honesty. He had a talk with Frank before leaving. Honesty and listen, understand, then react. He can do that.

"Mmm, sucks doesn't it." Buck says, sarcasm heavy.

"You are mad." Eddie points out. Buck doesn't deny it so he guesses that's true. "For someone mad you are being nice." Eddie eyes the way he moves in the kitchen to feed him.

"I can still be mad even if I still care and love you." Buck says. Eddie feels his hearts skip a beat, but he pushes that aside. There's not much to say after that. But he doesn't want to stop talking. Apologizing doesn't seem to be doing anything, so what else is there? 

It's been on his mind since the night before. Something Faustina said. He can't get it out of his head.

"Buck... can I ask, I just want to know, what were you doing that night you saved Faustina?" Eddie asks softly, he's not going to push, he thinks he knows, he just wants Buck to confirm it or not. He'd be really happy to know he's not right, that this gut feeling is wrong. But he knows Buck, maybe he can't read his face any longer but that doesn't mean he can't understand how he thinks. Hopefully.

"She told you?" Buck doesn't sound mad, and he's not. It's not really a secret. Him being there, her drowning. But what Eddie doesn't know is that Buck and Faustina don't talk about that night. She never asked what he was doing there. He never brought it up. Sure they've talked about their feelings but he's never gone into that.

"She really hated me, us." Eddie points out. Buck lets out a sigh.

But he doesn't say anything. He just continues to move around his kitchen. Eddie thinks he's not going to get anything until Buck lets out another sigh.

"I was going to... kill myself." Buck confesses slowly.

Eddie's whole body gets cold. His mind blank. His gut was right. Buck wanted to end his own life. Cheerful, happy, sunny Buck wanted to kill himself. That's what they all, what he, drove Buck to. Suicide. Eddie can see him, see Buck just walking out to sea to end it all. To never be found.

"Wh-" Eddie voice starts, but it comes out wobbled and rough. There's a lump stuck in his throat and he can't clear it cause his mind is on an image of Buck drowning. Drowning with the twins in him. He lets out a shuddering breath.

If Buck hears it he doesn't care because he keeps going, "I was thinking what was the point? The voice in my head, sounded like my dad's. Wondering what was there for me. I was too much again. I fucked up like I always do. How long will people leave me behind?"

"You weren't-" Eddie stops when Buck gives him a glare. A full heated glare.

"So you being... a big bully... an asshole wasn't you leaving me behind? Then what was it Eddie?" Buck asks sharply.

"I..." Eddie looks down, ashamed of his own actions. "I made a mistake." Eddie confesses. That's what it all was. A mistake, he needed someone to push the blame on, someone alive and he made the mistake of choosing Buck. The one who was in front of him. "I shouldn't have turned my grief and anger on you. I just... wished you were there." Eddie tells him.

"And I wished you were on my side. Instead I'm the villain."

"You aren't." Eddie reminds him.

"You all made me feel that way."

"We understand now. Bobby didn't let you back, I would have fought to keep my job to. My family. I know how much they mean to you. How we mean to you. Sorry we didn't understand. Sorry we drove you way. I'm sorry I drove you away." Eddie looks back up to see Buck fixing a plate now.

Eddie waits with bated breath for an answer, or some sort of sound, a nod maybe? Buck instead turns to Eddie with a fixed plate. He walks to Eddie who watches. Buck sets the plate on a placemat. Eddie goes to sit down. "Thanks for the words." Buck says.

"No. I should thank you. For Chris, for seeing him and loving him." Eddie says looking down at the food. Oh it looks so good. He's got a good night's rest and now he's eating a delicious meal. "Thank you for letting me see the twins."

"They are yours Eddie, I wouldn't do that to you."

"I know. But thanks anyway."

Buck looks away. "They saved me." Buck says sitting down in the chair next to Eddie.

"I thought Faustina did that." Eddie voices his confusion.

"No." Buck shakes his head, eyes on the dark wood on the table. "I saved Faustina because she was was screaming and the people with her ran away scared. I can hear it. I knew what it's like being under water like that so I saved her. When I got her to the hospital I wanted to make sure she was okay, maybe get her home and to a scared parent. But I was thinking of doing it again, after I knew she was safe."

"What?" Eddie asks, fork close to his mouth, head turned to Buck. Who still is not looking at him.

"I thought I'd save one more person before I go. And I had a lot of time to think about it. I know I never talked about it much but I did enjoy my time in Peru, so I thought I'd get away from everyone, and kill myself here. This far away the news wouldn't reach anyone, and my body would be long lost. As I was waiting for Faustina to wake up I thought I'd wait for night again and try a second time. But then... well Faustina had to stay the night at the hospital and then... well I learned I was pregnant." Buck says a small curl to the corner of his lips. The memory leading up to that revelation is sad and Buck doesn't openly announce it but learning it, now, it's rather funny.

"I..." Eddie is speechless. He doesn't like the images popping in his mind. Doesn't like the idea of him losing Buck. Of Chris losing Buck. Would they have ever known? Probably not. Chris would grow to hate him. And Eddie would be miserable. Eddie doesn't like the thought of some imaginary future, a future where he doesn't have Buck or the twins. Full of emotions Eddie pulls Buck into a tight hug. Tears stinging his eyes.

Buck gasps in surprise but after a while he hugs Eddie back. Both holding each other tight. Eddie can feel the way Buck body trembles. But he makes no sounds. It's something Eddie hates. How quiet Buck is when he cries. He knows why, it doesn't take a genius.

They stay holding each other. Eddie doesn't care about his food turning cold.

Bright smiles. Blue eyes. Dimples. Glowing hair. A laugh that vibrates.

It's a wonder someone like that wanted to end their own life. An angel wanting to no longer be around. Eddie never once thought Buck would be someone who would want to end their life. He loves everything, loves to learn, cook, read, animals, plants, science, parks, zoos, aquariums, picnics, parks, his job, family. He loves so much. And Eddie has always liked that about Buck. Found that amazing.

It is the total opposite of Eddie. He doesn't have the capacity to like or love everything. Eddie has a circle and stays in it but Buck, he loves going out of his circle and making it larger.

For someone with such a big heart to would want to have it stop. It's so wrong. So very wrong. And Eddie hates that that happened. It happened and Eddie wouldn't have been around to stop it. But the twins did. And he loves them all the more for it.

"Jeez. Can you stop glaring? You're scaring the locals." Buck teases with a grin, setting the tote bag in the shopping cart.

"Sorry." Eddie looks away as Buck finishes paying. Rubbing his hand down his face to smooth it over. He's getting into his head. Not able to forget what they had talked about two hours ago- fuck, has it only been two hours?- and now they are here. Buck having made a shopping list as Eddie ate.

They talked some more, about Chris mostly but they talked. And it felt good to talk to Buck again. Like they always did. Knowing Buck would listen and he won't judge. He'd add his opinions sometimes and he'd ask Eddie good questions that help him but he would never force him to feel a certain way, never belittle him, or tell him he's feeling wrong. Or that he shouldn't be feeling at all.

So when Buck had said he needed to go shopping for more food, since they have more guests, Eddie volunteered to help. And by help it was by pushing the cart and giving Buck company.

Eddie follows Buck to his jeep. He doesn't expect Buck to forgive him now, but he thinks Buck isn't as mad as he was. That's a win, a colossal win in Eddie's book. He helps Buck load the back of his jeep. Afterwards Eddie once again takes his place in the passenger side. Feeling nostalgic about being here like this.

"I've been meaning to asks, but I never did, how did Bobby take the news?" Buck wonders starting the car.

"About what? Athena finding you or the twins?" Eddie asks back looking at Buck questioningly.

"Both?" Buck shrugs with one shoulder, carefully pulling out the parking spot.

"Well, Athena told us she found you at the same time. All of us, minus Chim, were at the firehouse. I was shocked so I wasn't really paying attention to Bobby. He was silent though. And he heard through the grapevine that you have a kid. From what Athena said Bobby tried holding it in but he snapped and asked her about it."

"You guys kept it a secret? I told Athena I didn't mind you all knowing, I just didn't want Bobby or Chim around. I definitely don't want Maddie around." Buck says his sisters name with a lot of venom. He knows there's something there but they aren't close enough for him to asks about it. Eddie doesn't think they are, and he doesn't want to cross a line.

"Athena thought it was best not to tell him. She didn't want to hurt his feelings, he was pretty bad after learning you left. I was too. Of course hearing you had twins shocked him, from what Athena told us. We haven't shown him any pictures though. At this point we are curious to what he'd do."

"That's a bit mean." Buck says but he's smiling.

"It's not like we are really hiding it but for Hen and I it's kind of revenge for what he did."

"What did he do?" Buck tilts his head but continues to drive.

"For what he did to you Buck." Eddie looks at Buck like he's gone crazy.

"You guys don't have to do that to Bobby."

"Let us. Things got bad because Bobby kept you from work. Then he wasn't honest about it. By the time we learned the truth it was already too late. And being mad at him for it seemed like a waste of time. Now we can get our revenge." Eddie says darkly. "Why do you ask?" Eddie wonders calming down, remembering Buck brought the man up.

"I read Bobby's letter this morning so I was curious."

"Athena gave it to you huh." Eddie says.

"Before she left with Pepa."

"And?"

"I'm curious if you and Bobby see the same therapist?" Buck says seriously.

"What?"

"Both your letters are very similar but yours is 'I'm mad at my soon to be ex-wife who died' while Bobby's is 'I was scared because my family died.'"

"Is that all?"

"Some sentences were the same as well."

"What about what came next? How do you feel? Still mad or...?" Eddie questions.

"I'm frustrated. Because I always admire Bobby, even after I knew about the fire. I know that fire isn't his fault and I can see it hurts him. It's sad that he lost his family, and I never want to make him feel like that but... he's not my dad. I would love if that were case. And I know he treats me like that is the case but this was not that. He kept me from my job. He always talks to me about being emotional on the job but it sounds like he was pretty emotional himself. I get it's different, it is, I know that but it sucks. He treats me like a child, like his son but this, it was a slap in the face that he's not my dad and to know just how easy it is for him to take that away from me." Buck rambles. Eddie watches the emotions flicking through the others face. He saw rage, but it was nothing compared to the hurt on Buck's face. "So easy for him to be captain Robert Nash."

Eddie doesn't want to imagine how Buck looked when he came to the realization that Bobby isn't his father. They can act like it but there hasn't really been something to set it in stone. Eddie knows Buck loves Bobby as a father, Buck always told him he knows what a bad father is like and Bobby is a good one.

"I'm sorry." That's the only thing Eddie can think to say.

"It's not your fault." Buck takes a shuddering breath. "I'm use to love being like that. Taken away so easily."

Eddie opens his mouth to say that's not true but something in his brain told him to stay quiet. So he does. He should enjoy the rest of his time here. To once again show Buck that love that was taken away so cruelly.

Chapter Text

Laughs are had. Sad goodbyes are said.

Buck watches as the twins hug everyone goodbye. Especially Damian. At first he was wary of them all now he's smiling and talking just as much as his sister.

He's going to miss them. Half of his family is leaving. Including Isabel Sr and Tia Pepa. These nine days were so full and exciting. He wishes they can stay longer but he knows that's not possible. He lives here and they live in LA.

"Buck." He turns to see Eddie standing there. He's less mad at the other man, these last nine days he's made sure to show how sorry he is. He wont deny he miss Eddie. His friend, his best friend (other than Christopher).

"Hey Eds." Buck smiles at him. Eddie gives a smile back. Then he looks away.

"I'm sorry. Again. I know my words mean nothing after what I did but... I just want you to know I regret taking my anger on you. And thanks for... thanks for everything." Eddie smiles at him, his eyes warm and soft. Buck can see how true those words are from him.

Buck nods. "You've apologized enough." Buck says because at this point it's a bit moot to be angry at him. He's the father of his children, they will be talking to each other, a lot more now that he knows about them, and there's Chris. It's crazy but Chris will always be his first kid. His first baby boy. Though he keeps that to himself, he's unsure how Eddie will like that. "Just let it go." Buck whispers to him.

"But you're still mad." Eddie eyebrows furrow, he wants Buck to no longer be mad at him.

"And I always will be, it's never truly going to go away, I'm not going to just forget. Just remembering it get me frustrated but it's in the past now. You've apologized more than enough. It's getting a bit annoying." Buck smiles, a teasing tilt to his lips. Eddie just huffs.

"Okay. Chris will be wanting to talk a lot when I get back." Eddie relaxes. A playful smile on his lips.

"That's fine. I'm sure the twins will be happy to see him too." Buck smiles. So happy he can talk to Chris again.

"Remember... I'll be back with Chris." Eddie reminds. They had talked about it for a bit. Nothing is set in stone yet.

"I remember. I can't wait. But this time text me about you're coming. I don't want to be blindsided." Buck teases with a smirk. 

"I swear." Eddie smiles.

"Bye Eddie." Buck says with a smile.

"Bye Buck." Eddie smiles back, but they both just stand around. Both unsure what to do. Do they handshake? Hug? Bump fist?

Buck moves, patting Eddie on the shoulder. Then walking to Isabel Sr, saying goodbye once more before they get further into the airport. Buck hugs the older women tightly. He deeply cares for her. She has such a kind heart. Buck has always believed Eddie is very lucky to be her grandson.

Eddie watches as Buck holds his abuela, hugging her so easily. Buck says something which causes his abuela to laugh. She places her hand on his cheek, she tells him something which causes Buck's face to soften. Buck nods. Then he turns to Tia Pepa. The interaction is about the same. He turns to her with a tight hugs.

Lastly Buck moves to Athena. Hugging her. They talk for a bit, before they hug once more.

Esperanza, Buck, Isabel Jr, and Damian watch as the group walk away. Going further and further into the airport.

Eddie watches the familiar city, skyline and street go by. It's weird. It was just nine days but it feels longer. Buck had to go to work two of those days, still it feels like they were there forever. Almost like that was home. Of course he missed Chris. He talked to him as much as he can but he was mostly focused on Buck and the twins. Which is what he wanted.

He needs to go back with Chris. It would be better.

"How was it for you?" Athena asks, driving them back to her home.

"Good. I'm glad I went." Eddie smiles as he keeps his eyes out the window. "Why did you come with us?" Eddie wonders, he's been curious since she volunteered.

"I love Buck. He's my son. Of course I'd see him and the twins." Athena answers easily. Eddie tilts his head onto the glass window. "Worried?" Athena asks. Reading him easily. But he's sure she can get a read on anyone. It's her job.

"Yeah. They are so far away. What if something happens? Buck is a firefighter, I know it's hypocritical, but Buck has an old women and a teen as back up. Let's add in said teens workaholic mother." Eddie says sitting up.

"I'm worried about that too. But there's nothing we can do about that." Athena says. Eddie nods.

"That makes it worse though." Eddie tells her. Half his family is too far from him. Which Eddie can see the irony in the fact that he once was deployed. But this is different. It wasn't a choice this time. Not his choice at least. He's not running away.

"The only good grace we have is the fact Buck is talking to us again." Athena adds. Eddie lets out a breath.

They can only hope that if something were to happen Buck would contact them. Contact him. Though knowing Buck it is not a reassurance.

It doesn't take long for them to reach Athena's home.

They walk in to Bobby preparing dinner with Chris. Athena and Eddie watch them for a while. Both look happy, probably comforting each other about not being able to go.

They watch for a bit.

"Mijo." Eddie calls, Chris snapping his head to him. Eddie watches as his eyes widen.

"Dad!" Chris shouts happily. Eddie smiles as he watches Chris scramble down to the floor from the chair and rushes to him. It feels good to have Chris in his arms again after so long. Still his heart is torn. He knows this is going to be hard from now on.

"Hey mijo did you have fun?" Eddie asks.

"Yeah. And the food is better." Chris answers with a smile. Eddie chuckles, hearing Athena and Bobby chortle. "How was Bucky?" Chris wonders.

"Good. So are the twins. Oh and Buck got you a cool toy." Eddie says.

"Really? Where is it? Can I play with it?" Chris asks.

"When we get home." Eddie says.

"Would you like to stay for dinner?" Bobby wonders.

"Ah," Eddie looks down at Chris sure he'd like to taste what he was helping make. "Sure. Thank you." Eddie says. Bobby shakes his head.

"How was it?" Bobby asks looking at Athena then Eddie.

"Fun but hot." Athena says. "I will say it's cool Buck lives by the ocean. It's like a private beach. Hen and Karen sure enjoyed that."

"Bucky lives by the beach?" Chris looks at his father.

"Don't you remember, we facetimed and I was on the beach, it was Buck's backyard." Eddie smiles. Helping Athena set the table for them.

"I thought you all went to the beach." Chris says out loud.

"Technically we did, it's just we walked ten feet and it's there." Eddie says. Chris gives Eddie an unimpressed looked.

"Do you know if Buck read my letter?" Bobby asks hopefully but trying not to let it show.

"He did." Athena and Eddie answer at the same time.

"He... say anything about it?" Bobby wonders. This time Athena and Eddie look at each other. Eddie knows he's talked about it with Buck, so he's not sure Athena has done the same. He has to assume. Then, there is the fact about telling Bobby about it. This seems like something Buck and Bobby should talk about. Themselves.

"He may have mentioned it." Athena says. "But it's not my place to tell you. You can always ask yourself."

"He's still mad." Bobby says.

"Of course he is." Athena says honestly. Bobby looks down.

"I'm sure if you show your regret he'll come around." Eddie says, wanting to help the man. He can understand what his captain is feeling. Not like he's scott free. He's just lucky to be sharing kids with each other.

"Thank you." Bobby says.

"I'm more curious about what has him upset with Chimney and Maddie. Did he say anything to you?" Athena wonders looking at Eddie, sitting down as they wait for Bobby to finish.

"I know he's mad at Chimney for what he said. But for Maddie... I got the feeling it's more than just following Chimney." Eddie rubs the back of his neck. Honestly can say he never cared. They were not in the forefront of his mind.

"He never said what though?" Athena wonders.

"Nope. I think it's serious though." Eddie says.

The next shift in Eddie and Hen walk in with smiles and relaxed shoulders. Not able to see the stress they were under until they were gone. A nine day vacation was just what they needed.

"Fun vacation?" Chim asks sarcastically, looking haggard.

"Yeah, what happened to you?" Hen sizes him up. Eddie takes him in as he makes his way to the kitchen.

"The floaters they send to replace you two... not up to par." Chim frowns into his own cup. Hen makes a face at him. She can understand that. Hen enjoys being partnered with Eddie but she's not energized enough to get him out of his shell. Buck and Chim are the jokesters and light hearted one's (though Buck is the sun powering everything he touches, Chim is just funny and sarcastic) and Hen and Eddie are the opposite. Sure they can crack jokes but both are no nonsense. And their personalities are very much similar. It's why they work well with their partners. They work well with each other for the most part. There's a learning curve.

"They were not use to the chaos firehouse 118 gets." Bobby answers, getting things ready in the kitchen. Breakfast is already passed but that doesn't mean he can't get a head start on lunch. At that Hen and Eddie nod. Not every house has the same calls. Because they are deep into the city it's chaos compared to a house on the outer city.

"Yup. They were bringing the team down." Chim says. Sure that they had some very busy days the floaters couldn't keep up with.

"That explains why everyone was so happy to see us." Hen says. A smile on her face at the memory of the others welcoming them too enthusiastically.

"So," Chim asks looking at Hen sitting with her traveling mug and Eddie joining them at the table, "how was Buck? And where ever he lives now?"

"Peru." Eddie says raising an eyebrow at that.

"Yeah. How was it?" Chim wonders, most likely fishing for information on Buck. Information he will easily share with Maddie.

"From what I heard, Hen and Karen spend the days in Buck's backyard." Bobby chimes in. Chim sputters.

"What?" Chim looks at his friend (maybe) curiously. Hen rolls her eyes with a smile. Eddie smirks.

"Buck lives by the ocean so his backyard is a beach." Hen explains knowing how weird that sounded.

"Wow. That sounds expensive." Chim says.

"I don't think it is." Hen says looking at Eddie for a second opinion. Eddie just shrugs.

"He did house us all." Eddie adds.

"All! Weren't there six of you?" Chim eyes bug out their sockets.

"Yeah, but my abuela and tia decided to go with the neighbor." Eddie says without looking up.

"Did he not have space?" Chim wonders.

"No he did. They just chose to go." Hen says.

"How can he afford that?" Chim wonders face scrunching up at the thought, he can barely afford a cup of coffee.

"He does work." Eddie points out.

"What does he do? To be able to afford a house that can house all of you." Chim says in wonder.

"A firefighter." Hen says looking from the corner of her eye at Bobby, who snaps his head up, hands still mixing the sauce in the bowl. Eddie gives a look to Hen. He's not sure if they should have talked about that fact or kept it hidden. Buck doesn't really seem to care who knows, it's not a secret. If it's not a secret to Bobby then it's not to Chim. Maybe.

"No like now. In Peru." Chim clarifies.

"That's what he's doing. He's a firefighter in Peru." Eddie says.

"I have a picture of him in his turnouts." Hen snickers pulling out her phone.

"I do too." Eddie says pulling his own out. Though his has Buck with the twins so he'll only show Hen his own some other time. Bobby comes over to take a look. Obviously curious.

In Hen picture it's of Buck at an angle looking off screen, but they can clearly see his face and body. In full on orange turnouts. They can see his blue eyes and birthmark easily. Chim and Bobby stare at it.

"Geez, can he look ugly in something?" Chim teases sitting back. Bobby steps up to continue looking at the picture. It's the only thing he's seen of Buck recently. He's obviously changed but it's good to see him.

"Our Buckaroo?" Hen smiles letting Bobby have his fill.

"Did you do anything fun?" Chim wonders.

"What wasn't fun?" Hen smiles. "It was like having a private beach. Buck and his neighbor can cook so we were enjoying a lot of Peruvian dishes. The night life is fun. We even went hiking." At that Eddie chokes on his drink in laughter.

"Karen." Is all he says as he breaths but it's to much.

"What happened?" Chim wonders looking at them both intrigued.

"Like I said we went hiking, but... you know they have jungles, like actual jungles. Karen kept stepping in spider webs, bugs and... other things. She wasn't having the best time. By the end of it she was messy and mad." Hen says with a grin.

"It was made up with Buck making her ice cream." Eddie adds a smile on his lips at the memory. The twins were having fun, a 180 from Karen who look ready to murder. By the end she was tired and nasty. "Handmade ice cream." Eddie clarifies.

"Oh! Right. His ice cream was so good. He had like a whole ice cream bar set up. It was so good." Hen sighs remembering it. "What was it called again?" She looks at Eddie.

"Lucuma ice cream. It's a fruit. From what Buck mentioned it pairs with a lot of fruits and other toppings." Eddie tells them.

"Buck made mine and Karen's. What did he add on top? I never got to ask." Hen wonders.

"Probably dulce de leche. I had mine with caramel." Eddie says.

"You had more than one." Hen gives him a look.

"One with caramel and the other with dulce de leche." Eddie cheeks heat.

"Are you planning on going again?" Hen questions Eddie.

"Yeah. During the summer so I can take Chris. He was upset about not going with us." Eddie says.

"Have you talked to Buck since being back?" Hen asks.

"Yeah. Of course. Keeping me up to date." Eddie says vaguely. Chim just looks at Hen who understood what Eddie meant, then back at Eddie. "We trade pictures." Eddie gives a smile.

"So how have you and Maddie been?" Hen wonders turning her attention to Chim. He blinks at them.

"Good. Though it's a bit hard with all three of us living in a one bedroom apartment." Chim say with a slight frown to his eyebrows.

"If you needed space why get something so small?" Hen wonders.

"We were living in a hotel for a while when we got back we jumped at it. Plus both our saving are almost run dry. We couldn't afford something more." Chim sags in his seat.

"The only advice I have now is save then search." Hen says.

"What are you guys looking for? A larger apartment or house?" Eddie asks.

"We actually want a house, for Jee." Chim says.

"How big of a house?" Eddie asks.

"We haven't thought about it, yet. For now we're just saving. Or trying to." Chim says.

For everyone life goes on.

From February to March. From March to April. The days continued.

Eddie of course kept in contact the most with Buck and everyone knows. Hen and Bobby would ask what funny or cute thing that happened. And they know something did because Eddie always walk into work with a smile on his face. Grinning from ear to ear.

As April came to an end, the day started like any other. The crew either sat in the loft or did their chores waiting for their next call. All morning they'd gotten quick short calls. Ones that did not require them all.

All attention turns to the stomping up the stairs. Determined, almost frantic stomping. Coming closer until they come into view. Athena who, by the look on her face means business, shows. She takes a moment at the top of the stairs to survey the loft.

"Bobby is in his office." Johnson tells her.

"I'm not here for-" she stops when her eyes land on her target. "Eddie did you hear?" She asks stepping closer to him. Eddie looks at her confused.

"Hear what?" Eddie raises an eyebrow at her.

"The storm." Athena answers like it's obvious. Everyone tilts their head to see the sunny day outside. Easily seen with the bay doors open.

"No?" Eddie is still confused.

"Peru, Eddie, Peru. There's a storm where Buck lives. Have you heard anything from him?" Athena explains frustrated. Eddies eyes widen open. Stomach dropping. Memories of the tsunami pouring into his mind. No. Buck and the twins. He feels like he can't breathe. His chest feeling tight. Ears ringing.

He pulls out his phone with shaky hands to call Buck. But there's no answers. Eddie stares at the screen. A scream threatening to escape his throat. "Athena how do you know?" Hen asks for Eddie. They can see his worry.

"I've been keeping track of Peruvian weather, just to keep an eye out." She says with a shrug.

"What's the storm?" Hen wonders.

"It's not hurricane destruction but I got a flooding warning so it's not good." Athena answers looking away worried.

"Flooding and earthquakes are common in Peru." Eddie says trying again, feeling eyes on his face. With the air silent he looks up. He shrugs. "I can do research too." Eddie says.

"Eddito! Nieto! Nieto!" Shouts and stomping come from the stairs once again. All heads turn to the stairs to who see who they already know as Eddie grandmother is rushing up. At the top she take in oxygen and tries to find her grandson. Once her eyes land on him she rushes forward. "Buckito! Evito! Bebes!" She shouts.

"He's not answering." Eddie looks at them worried. Not that anyone has noticed Bobby comes out hearing the commotion.

"¿Sabes sobre la tormenta?" (You know about the storm?) Isabel asks.

"Athena just informed me." Eddie nods at her.

"He's not answering my calls either." Abuela says worried.

"You both are on it." Hen says impressed with their (Athena and abuela) forward thinking and care.

"What's going on?" Bobby wonders.

"A storm hit Peru. It's flooding." Chim gives him the cliff notes.

"Shit!" Eddie shouts his hands on his face, leg thumbing. "We tried to call him but he said he was busy." Eddie tells them.

"You didn't asks why?" Hen looks at him as if he's stupid, which makes him glare at her.

"I did, he just said he's preparing for his next shift. He didn't say anything about an incoming storm." Eddie says, an angry lit to his voice.

"Maybe he's on shift?" Chim asks.

"I asked the day before my shift started." Eddie says clenching his phone in both hands, elbows on his shaking knees. Which was almost three days ago. Their shift is almost over. Anything could have happened in that time. The fact that they can't get a hold of him does not bode confidence.

"Is there a way-" Hen gets cut off by the bell ringing. Eddie looks up freezing. They all do. The others rushing a head. Eddie moves first. He gets to his feet and rushes over to the stairs to run down. The rest behind him.

"We'll see you after work." Athena shouts to them.

He gets his turnouts on, grabs his helmet and gets in the engine.

Bobby turns but not able to see Eddie as they are back to back. "Eddie," Bobby calls his name gently, like he's trying to calm a wild animal.

"Bobby." Eddie says back sharply. "Let's not jump to conclusion. Buck survived a tsunami, he'll make sure everyone is safe." Eddie tells more himself than them but they needed to hear that. What helps is that it's true. Buck survived a tsunami. Buck saved Chris. But Buck collapsed afterwards. He was cold, cut and bruised. Now there's the twins.

And now Buck is over multiple countries away. On a whole different continent. He has no way of making sure they are okay.

"Do you think you can work?" Bobby asks.

"If you can so can I." Eddie says sharply. He's worried, of course he is but he's got a job to do and he's going to do it. He'll spiral afterwards.

The call is a restaurant fire that got out of control. It was a great distraction. For them all. Worry about saving the few stuck in the building then get the fire out. Not think about the person who they currently can't contact. Their lone family member.

It becomes overtime.

As they are packing up Bobby comes to him. Eddie braces himself for some words. Maybe that he didn't do his job right or he was too emotional. Instead he gets "Athena is waiting at the house." Then he leaves to do what ever captains do.

Eddie does his job and gets back in the engine. He and the others take their showers. As Eddie gets in the car he calls Carla who answered worried. She also heard about the storm in Peru. Eddie tells her he's going to be with Athena for information. Both sure the Sargent can easily get it. Carla says she'll stay with Chris till he's back. He thanks her profusely but she reminds him of his wonderful gift he got her. Buck picked it out but he bought it. She loves the wonderful silk scarf.

He parks haphazardly, not that it matters they are the last house anyway. Once his car is parked, he turns the ignition off and jumps out. He vaguely spots familiar cars. He rushes in not knocking and barely remembering to close the door. He finds the TV on the newscaster talking going on and on. Who is talking in Spanish (duh). Athena is making a call. Hen is pacing also on her phone. Abuela and Tia Pepa are on the couch watching the TV, holding each other's hand. He can hear Bobby in the kitchen.

"What do you know?" Eddie asks standing next to them.

"Es malo, Eddito. Hay muertes." (It's bad, Eddito. There are deaths.) Abuela says, sadness in her eyes.

"Dijeron que toda la costa está inundada. La mayoría de las casas están sumergidas." (They said the whole coast is flooded. Most houses are submerged.) Tia Pepa informs him.

Eyes turn to the screen as footage play of the wild winds, water running down the street high like a river. Things are being thrown around, houses flooded, everything is getting destroyed. Mother Nature is not to be messed with.

"There's not going to be much word up here until it's over." Athena says hanging up the phone and turning to them.

"How long do these storms usually last?" Hen wonders, hanging up on her phone. Eddie catches the name Karen on hers. Must be updating her wife about the situation and why she's not at home yet.

"Long. It's been going on for two days nows." Tia Pepa says, sadness and worried.

"It doesn't seem like it's going to end either." Eddie adds listening to the news anchor.

"Still no word?" Hen asks.

"No. We tried while waiting for you." Pepa eyes on the screen. More footage of the storm showing.

The silence stretches.

The only thing heard is from the tv.

No one says a thing.

No one says their thoughts out loud.

All they can do is silently believe that Buck and the twins are alright.

Athena phone blares into the silence. Athena takes a look at her screen. Jumping in her skin when she sees the name. Her eyes almost water with relief. Tension in her shoulders releases.

"Buck?" Athena voice cracks as she puts her phone on speaker and sets it on the table. On the other line it's noisy. All eyes are on the phone. Even Bobby has emerged from the kitchen, what ever he's doing put on hold.

"Hey Athena." Buck says through the speaker, they can see him giving her his 'I did something that you may not like' smile.

"Evan you had all of us worried." Athena says, sounding like a worried mother. Which she is.

"Sorry. I just got time to rest and recharge." He says sounding exhausted.

"Mama!" A shrill voice cries.

"Shshsh, mamá está aquí. Está bien." (Ssshh, mama is right here. It's okay.) Buck says soothingly, though half of them have no clue what he said. Bobby is just happy to hear his voice, and curious to which of the twins is that. Still haven't seen pictures of them. They hear more talking in Spanish from Buck and someone else. They seem to having a distant conversation. With a deep sigh Buck is back, "sorry. I know this is sudden but I was wondering if you can do me a favor?" Buck wonders clearly.

"Sure." Athena agrees easily.

"Can you find and rent an Airbnb for me and the twins." Buck tells her which has everyone blinking in confusion.

"Sure but why?" Athena questions because that's what she least expected.

"I don't know how my house is, I did what I could to prepare but..." Buck trails off for a second. There's only so much you can prepare for something. Plans sometime never go right no matter what. "Anyway, I would be here but clean up is going to take a while and people need jobs so I'm going back to LA until everything is settled."

"What do you mean people need jobs?" Hen wonders.

"Hen?" He voices his confusion but decides not to address it. "Ah... well, I know it's just one firefighter position but with me gone one local has a job. I already talked to my captain about it. I'll be in LA until things are semi back to normal." Buck answers.

"You can stay with me." Eddie pipes up.

"Eds? You're there too? Where are you at? Is this a party?" Bucks asks worried.

"No it's not. They are at my house but it's just us." Athena calms him. They hear Buck take a deep breath.

"So?" Eddie wonders.

"What? Oh right. Um... sure. I'll stay with you Eds." Buck agrees and Eddie wants to fist the air in victory.

"Are the twins okay?" Abuela asks.

"Abuela?" Buck calls confused.

"And Pepa." Tia says.

"This is really starting to sound like a party." Buck mutters into the phone.

"Buck how long are you planning to stay?" Athena wonders.

"Two months give or take. It depends on the damage. Oh and the twins are just fine. Hold on." Buck says and they can tell when he turns on speaker. It's sounds like they are in a shelter of some kind. "Di hola." (Say hello.) Buck says.

"Hola?" One says confused. Those who know the twins can tell it's Isabel Jr who talked.

"¿Princesa, estás bien? ¿Qué pasa con tu hermano?" (Princess are you okay? What about your brother?) Abuela calls moving towards the phone.

"Abuela!" The voices shout at the same time.

"¡Fue aterrador!" (It was scary!) Isabel cries.

"¡Y alto!"(And loud!) Damian cries.

"¡Y mamá se había ido!" (And mama was gone!) Isabel shouts. They hear a giggles.

"Yo estaba trabajando." (I was working.) Buck informs them.

"Buck, ¿estás seguro de que todavía no tienes hambre?"(Buck are you sure you're not hungry still?) Esperanza asks.

"Ya tuve suficiente. El resto debería guardarse para ustedes." (I had my fill. The rest should be saved for you all.) Buck says.

"Eres el bombero. Deberías comer para tener energía." (You're the firefighter. You should eat for energy.) Faustina says worried.

"Faustina, está bien." (Faustina, it's okay.) Buck says gently. They can hear the smile on his face.

"Creo que deberías comer más." (I think you should eat more.) Faustina says grumpily.

A loud crackling sounds is over heard. Then a large boom. The sounds of panicked people echo. Then very loud and close two children whining. "Mama!" The twins cry.

"Estoy aquí, estoy aquí." (I'm here, I'm here.) Buck reminds them. They can hear him kissing them. They know he's hugging them tightly. Buck then sighs. "Creo que mi descanso ha terminado." (I think my break is over.) He says not to them.

"Ten cuidado allá afuera." (Be careful out there.) Esperanza says.

"Mantente a salvo." (Stay safe.) Faustina says.

"Yo lo haré." (I will.) Buck says after some movement Buck speaks again. "Los quiero a ambos. Escuchen a Abuela y al primo, ¿de acuerdo? Los veré a ambos después del trabajo." (I love you both. Listen to Abuela and cousin okay. I'll see you both after work.)

"No hay permiso." (No leave.) Isabel cries.

"Mamá queda." (Mama stay.) Damian cries.

"Los quiero mucho a los dos, pero tengo que ir a trabajar." (I love you both so much, but I have to go to work.) Buck says sadly, they can hear it in his voice. "Por favor, cuídalos." (Please take care of them.)

"Por supuesto." (Of course.) Esperanza says.

They hear more shuffling. What they can only assume are tight hugs. A couple more kisses. Some sobs and whines. Then the sound of heavy boots walking.

"Buck!" Athena shouts.

"Oh, I forgot I was on speaker." Buck says, he must be walking around as sounds are getting close then far.

"When will you be here?" Athena asks.

"After my last shift. Maybe two days. I'll text when we're on our way." Buck says.

"Buckley!" A loud voice carries.

"I have to go. Bye." Buck says quickly ending the call.

Once again there is silence.

"He's okay." Hen says into the silence. The tension now gone. Everyone feeling the relief.

"And he'll be staying with Eddie." Pepa says with a glint in her eye.

"Do you have the room?" Abuela questions with a curve to her eyebrow.

"Yes. It's been set up as a closet..." Eddie says frowning because that won't do.

"We'll help clean it." Abuela says, a finality to her tone.

"Thank you." Eddie says.

The next day Abuela and Pepa are at his door ready to get the extra room ready.

Chapter Text

Bobby sat nervously.

And he knows he really shouldn't be nervous. He and Buck text, as much as they can. He is less mad but like Eddie that feelings isn't going to just disappear completely. But now he's seeing the man he thinks of as a son after what feels like forever. It's been two years and some months at this point.

Athena sat next to him in the car. Her eyes are darting as wildly as his are. LAX is always so busy, so many people it's hard to find the ones they are here for.

"Did he say what he's wearing?" Bobby wonders, driving forward slowly. Then finding an area to park near the curb. 

"Just that he is going to stand out." Athena says turning her head to look behind them. From her tone she doesn't seem shocked or confused, like she knows what to expect. "Oh. There." Athena says opening the door. She closes it behind her. "Buck!" She yells, her arm raised looking ahead. Bobby turns his eyes to find who she's looking at.

"Athena!" Buck yells back but Bobby still can't see him. Which is odd given his size. Athena walks forward, more like sprints. As she gets closer he spots him. Buck in a bright red short sleeve jumpsuit with black boots. Patches over the jumpsuit. Bobby catches sight of the number 99 on the patch on his chest. Athena talks to him as she grabs hold of the two large suitcases that stand next to him. Buck smiles as he follows Athena.

Bobby has been waiting for this for three days. He told Athena he was going to go with her. She didn't argue or say anything. She was worried and wanted Buck in her sight.

"Are you all hungry? Need anything?" Athena asks, he can hear her as they get closer.

"No. Just want to get to Eddie's." Buck says sounding tired. Bobby spots in his arms is one of the twins with wild crazy brown curly hair. Hanging from his leg is the other twin. Both are wearing bright blue sweats with a sweater. No shoes just white socks.

Bobby watches silently as Athena goes to the trunk to put the luggage away. Buck opens the back doors. He sets one twin into the already there car seat. Buckling them up. Then he bends over to grab the other one who was hugging his leg like a koala hanging on a branch. Buck bends over to set her as close to the other car seat as he can. "Entra." (Get in.) He tells the twin who obeys. Buck then takes off a backpack and sets it on the floor. Before climbing in, as much as his large body will allow. "Perdóname." (Pardon me.) He says to them. Bobby can see the twins watching Buck as he moves to sit in between them. Athena comes over to close the door behind Buck. Then goes to her seat beside Bobby. Buck sits down. Not able to comfortably get the seat belt around himself. Athena turns as she puts on her seatbelt to see Buck putting the seatbelt on the other twin.

"Ready?" Bobby asks.

"Yeah." Buck nods getting comfortable, as much as he can. He slumps in his seat, one arm over one twin, the other over the other twin. Both twins holding onto Buck.

Not long into the car ride do the two in front hear snores. Athena twists to see Buck knocked out, the twins along with him. Bobby takes a peak in the rearview mirror. Buck is resting his head back, the twins leaning against the headrest closes to Buck.

"Must have been tiring." Athena says taking her phone out to get a picture.

"Traveling with twins, I'm sure it wasn't." Bobby says back.

"It's not easy. But I meant his uniform. He must have just gotten off work. He didn't change." Athena says sitting back. "He looks okay." Athena says.

"He looks like he's got scratches." Bobby points out. Buck's curls wild, as wild as both his kids. After traveling the whole day it's understandable they aren't presentable. Though one twin has a blue bow in her hair trying to keep it up, but there's a lot of stray hairs coming out and curling.

The drive to Eddie's isn't long enough for the family of three to get a proper rest but it's long enough for a good nap. Bobby parks on Eddie's drive way, getting close to the door. Bobby turn the ignition off, turning with Athena to look at their passengers.

"Should we wake them?" Bobby asks sort of not wanting to.

"It's better they get inside." Athena says moving forward to shake Buck awake. "Buckaroo." Athena calls. "Buck." Athena says a little louder. "Buck." Athena calls again this time waking Buck who jerks up looking at them wildly. Then turning his attention to the twins who are still asleep. Buck takes a deep breath as he slumps back down.

"Where?" Buck voice croaks, he blinks as he looks around seeing that they are at Eddie's. He looks tired though.

"Come on. Let's get you inside. Eddie should be home." Athena says opening the door.

"We just got off our shift." Bobby tells him. Buck makes a face at that. Feeling a bit bad about showing up now but it was as fast as a he could get here. "I'll get your luggage." Bobby says opening the trunk. Buck unbuckles the twins. One door opening. Athena moves to get one twin in her arm. Buck moves out the other door, stretching his legs and back.

After getting a good stretch he moves, taking the other twin into his arms, then grabs the backpack. He close the door, moving with Athena to the front door. Bobby behind them. As they get closer the door rips open. Abuela at the door waiting for them.

"Evito." She calls him happily. Buck gives her a tired smile. "¿Princesa y príncipe pequeño?"(Princess and little prince?) She asks.

"Sleeping." Buck says casually. Abuela rushes to the living room moving things around for a place the twins can sleep. Buck and Athena careful in setting them down. Buck stares at them for a bit. Bobby setting his luggage by the door.

"Are you hungry?" Abuela wonders.

"Yes please." Buck says standing up, setting the backpack on the couch.

"Abuela we're finished-" Eddie calls walking into view from further in the house. He pauses at the sight of Buck. Buck smiles at him. Stepping around the twins.

"Thanks for letting me stay." Buck says. Eddie doesn't answer. He just rushes forward, pulling the other into a tight hug.

"I'm glad you're safe." Eddie says.

In answer Buck groans. Eddie pulls back to look at Buck, seeing his face twist in displeasure.

"Are you hurt?" Eddie asks looking down.

"Relax. I was checked out already. Just sore and scratched up." Buck says holding a hand up to calm the other.

"Evito, come eat." Abuela says, Pepa with her. Buck moves fast, the smell of cooked food hitting his nostrils causing his stomach to growl, sounding almost like an animal call.

"Thank you." Buck says sounding close to crying. He sits down and starts to eat. 

They watch as he stuffs his face. Joining him at the table. "Have you eaten?" Athena asks worried.

Buck shakes his head. "There wasn't enough time when I got off. Then we were moving."

"What happened?" Pepa asks. Buck just gives her a questioning look. "The beginning to now?" She asks.

"Oh. We got the storm warning and so I was busy getting my house and abuela's house ready for the storm. She and Faustina packed for me and the twins. Once we were done the storm was starting so we got into my jeep and left for the shelter. It had gotten late so the twins were asleep by then. Once they were settled I left for work."

"I'm sure it was hard work." Pepa says.

"More tiring. There were a lot of people who got stuck. Then once I got a break I ate, checked up on everyone then called you." Buck looks over at Athena. "Then I worked. Until I got off. One of the medics gave me a look over then sent me off. I got the twins and left."

"I'm sure the plane ride was tiring." Athena points out, all looking at the blond in sympathy.

"It was. We had to take a ferry up to Central America. Cause the airport was closed. It had been flooded. Then we got to the airport. It was busy so I could barely get the twins something to eat. They were restless the whole time." Buck explains with a sigh.

"A ferry?" Pepa asks.

"Yeah, we had to travel the back way. From west coast to the east coast, then get a ferry up the east coast. Then travel to the airport to get here." Buck explains.

"Is the storm still going?" Eddie asks.

"When we left yeah." Buck answers.

"Esperanza and Faustina?" Abuela asks.

"They'll be living together, Faustina mother, Maria will be joining them when she can. Our homes are at the coast so it's a coin toss on if it's okay." Buck says.

"What if it's not?" Athena asks.

"I'll get it reconstructed. When it's safe of course." Buck shrugs like it's no big deal. But they all (besides Bobby) have seen his house, it doesn't seem easy or cheap to get it rebuilt.

They watch him eat some more. Pepa getting up to get him some water and juice to drink. He happily takes it. Buck doesn't even care they are watching him like some sort of zoo animal. Especially Bobby. He's just happy to be here. Safe. Warm.

"Mama!" A cry brings their attention to the living room. "Mama!" Another cry gets closer.

"Aquí." (Over here.) Buck says calmly. The patter of feet is heard and in comes one of the twins. The one without a bow. His blue eyes go to Buck. He rushes to his mom, arms raised. Buck doesn't think twice about picking him up. Damian shoves his face into Buck neck, holding him tight and close.

"Have they been sticky?" Abuela asks.

"Yeah. I heard they were crying for me." Buck answers kissing the top of Damian's head, his tiny fist holding onto the jumpsuit tightly.

"Pequeño príncipe, ¿tienes hambre?" (Little prince, are you hungry?) abuela asks, eye soft as she watch him.

Damian shakes his head. "Solo mamá." (Just mama.) Buck smiles as he continues to eat. One hand holding his fork the other rubbing his back, soothing him.

"Dami?" A soft voice calls. Turning they spot Isabel Jr standing rubbing her tired eyes. Her eyes go to her brother in their mother's arms then she spots the others. Her eyes landing on her father. "Papa!" She says happily rushing to him with a smile.

Eddie smiles back as he grabs her, pulling her into his lap. Buck sets his fork down to slip the hair tie out of her hair. Not like it's holding much at this point. "How's my princess?" Eddie asks, watching her look back and forth. Her wild long curly hair springing with the action.

"¿Dónde está Chrissy?" (Where's Chrissy?) She asks, at that Damian raises his head smacking Buck who doesn't react much besides a small grunt. They give him a sympathetic look. Sure that didn't feel good. Pepa holds her hand out, Buck setting the hair tie on her hand.

"En la escuela." (At school.) Eddie says, angling so Pepa can put her hair back up.

"¿Para siempre?" (Forever?) She asks looking sad. They all laugh, besides Athena and Bobby.

"No. Él volverá pronto." (No. He'll be back soon.) Eddie says with a grin on his face.

"Oof, qué pelo loco." (Oof, what crazy hair.) Pepa says with a smile, trying to get her hair tamed. Buck grins. Good luck with that.

"Como mamá." (Like mama.) Isabel Jr smiles tilting her head back. Eddie resting his full open palm on her back so she doesn't fall. Pepa gives her a chuckle, giving a look to Buck's free wild curls finishing up up his plate.

"Just like your mama." Pepa says softly. Buck focus on his food. Not paying attention to the way Damian is moving.

"¿Quién es ese?" (Who is that?) Isabel Jr asks pointing to Bobby. A new face. Eddie looks at Buck, giving a quick glance back with a shrug.

"That is Bobby. Athena's husband." Eddie answers in English.

"Hello." Bobby says with a nervous smile.

"Hello." She mimics him with a smile and a tilt to her head as she watches him. And Bobby heart melts. She smiles just like Buck.

That's when Damian elbows Buck, who loses his breath, dropping his fork and leaning forward with a small almost unheard cry.

"Buck." Eddie calls, attention on him now. "Let me see." Eddie demands, in medic mode.

"Shit." Buck breathes between clenched teeth. He moves Damian, unbuttoning the jumpsuit revealing a white wife beater underneath. He pulls it up showing of his pale skin. But their eyes all land on the large bruise forming on his side. Buck moves to twist his body to get a look at himself but not able to. Eddie steps up, holding Isabel tight to get a look.

"How'd that happen?" Eddie wonders leaning over to get a look and touch. Buck hissing at him, smacking his hand away.

"It must have happened when we saved someone from their home. We had to get in through the roof. It turns out it was a whole family. The dad got stuck so I dived down to help get him out. I guess what bumped into me was a lot harder than I thought. It wasn't like that when we left." Buck says though he knows he was working on barely there fumes and adrenaline.

"How bad?" Eddie says.

"Well now I can feel it." Buck says pulling his shirt down.

"Mamá. Lo siento." (Mama. I'm sorry.) Damian cries. Buck gives him a smile.

"Not your fault. I'm okay." Buck says pulling him close into a hug.

"¿Trabajo?" (Work?) Damian wonders.

"Yes. Work." Buck kissing his head rocking him.

"Here, I'll take him so you can finish eating." Abuela says holding her hands out to get him.

"Thank you." Buck says handing him over.

"I'll check on it once you're done." Eddie says with a pointed look. He's not backing down.

"I'd like to shower first." Buck says knowing it's no use to argue with Eddie. To just let him look over the bruise, see for himself it's okay.

"Are you going to rest after?" Athena wonders.

"I'd like to." Buck says focus on his food once again.

Athena nods, "then we'll go. Maybe see you tomorrow." Athena says standing. Bobby joins her.

"See ya 'thena." Buck says with a nonsense wave as she and Bobby walk to the front door. Bobby keeps his eyes on them though. Until the door closes behind them.

Buck finishes eating. Drinks his water and juice. Then goes to his luggage to some clothes to change into. A grey version of what the twins are wearing. When he gets out Eddie shows up to check on the bruise. Luckily nothing is broken, which Buck knew.

After getting dressed Buck goes to the room he'll be sharing with the twins. A large bed in the middle with a fence on the edge for the twins. Buck knows for a fact that's new, along with the dresser. Both his luggage and the twins are in the room near the closet, along with the backpack.

Buck falls onto the bed, getting comfortable so he can sleep. And falling asleep so easily.

The next time he wakes up it's sunny and he can hear the birds chirping. Buck takes a moment to get his bearings. Remember what happened before he woke up. All of last night. Buck takes a breath. He was wracked with nerves the whole time. Now he can breath.

Slowly he gets up, taking note of the twins who are resting against him. He wonder how long they've been asleep.

He moves slowly, getting away from them. Not wanting to wake them up just yet. He sits up and looks around. He needs his phone and other things. He moves to the backpack, opening it to get his phone, wallet, and charger. His phone is dead. Understandable.

He puts it to charge, setting his wallet down next to it on the bedside table. Then he goes over to the luggage's, seeing the twins backpacks hooked to the luggage. He takes them off, and sets them on top of the dresser. Moving the leashes next to them.

Then he notices a small stair steps for the twins to get on and off the bed easily. He'll do the rest when the twins are awake. Buck sees the door is closed. Opening it he's hit with silence. How early did he wake? He fell asleep as soon as he hit the pillow so it's understandable he is up this early. He wonders how long he slept? He can imagine hours.

He walks into the kitchen looking around to see the time over the oven. Wow, it's around five. He slept for fifteen hours. He does feel rested.

He moves over to the very old coffee maker of Eddie's. He's shocked it hasn't broken down. He's moving around getting a cup of coffee in him. He hears shuffling behind him, Buck smiles expecting one of the twins to have followed him.

"Buck." A voice says softly. Buck twist to see Chris staring at him with wide eyes.

"Hey superman. You're up early." Buck smiles. The Diaz boys are not really early risers. They like their sleep. Silently Chris runs to him. Hugging his leg. Buck lifts him in his arms, where Chris wraps himself around Buck. His head resting on Buck shoulder.

"You're here." His voice is soft, sounding like he's on the verge of tears.

"Yup. We're going to be staying a while." Buck answers, using one arm to fix his coffee.

"Here?" Chris leans back to get a look at Buck.

"Yeah." Buck answers with a smile, giving Chris a quick look.

"Where are the twins?" Chris wonders looking around. Buck smiles. He's so glad the kids get along. One of the many things he worried about when he first visited.

"Sleeping."

"Are you going to make breakfast?" Chris asks resting his head back on Buck shoulder.

"Of course. What do you want?" Buck smiles already knowing his answer.

"Pancakes." Chris smiles at him.

"Let's see if we have everything first." Buck says moving around with Chris in his arms. He's gotten use to doing this with the twins. Damian especially like being carried by him. Though it's a bit different with Chris being so big.

He moves around the kitchen effortless. Muscle memory coming back. Getting the flour, eggs and milk. He spots some fruit, bananas specifically and adds that. He sets Chris down so he can go and get changed for school. Multitasking on watching Chris get ready and the pancakes. Checking on the twins and getting his phone on. He even cuts up some more fruit for a fruit salad, with some sausages. When Chris comes walking in Buck already has a plate set for him. Chris beams at it.

Buck gets the other pancakes made, setting up a plate for Eddie. Which is a good move because he hears Eddie wake up and proceed to freak out about getting Chris up and ready for school. "Chris!" Eddie calls as he rushes to his son's room to get him up. Pausing when he finds the room empty. He takes in the scent of food and sprints to the kitchen spotting Chris at the table eating and Buck looking at him amused.

"Morning." Buck says setting his plate down.

"Morning. Thanks." Eddie says sitting down.

"No problem. It's the least I can do since you're letting us stay here. Just let me know if you need anything, okay." Buck says sliding the plate to him.

"Buck you don't have to."

"Eddie-"

"Buck. I want you here and the twins." Eddie interrupts, voice seriously. Buck opens his mouth to add to it but two feet shuffling have them all turning to see the twins walking in holding hands and rubbing their eyes. Buck smiles at their crazy hair, not dissimilar to his own hair at the moment and a welt on their cheek from where they were sleeping. All three having not gone under the covers.

"Mama?" Damian calls.

"Sleep good?" Buck asks picking both of them up. "Hungry?" He asks.

"Sí." Damian nods as he rest his head on Buck's shoulder.

"Please." Isabel pleads staring at the plates.

"They followed you to sleep, they did play a little." Eddie explains getting up.

"Do you know if they woke up?" Buck asks watching Eddie. He doesn't remember waking up, or them waking him up.

"No they were asleep the whole time." Eddie says, having gone to a small closet. "I was home all day yesterday." Eddie says coming into view with two high chairs. Buck stares wide eyes.

"Eddie!" Buck says looking at the high chair then at Eddie.

"Abuela and tia got them. And they got them plates and utensil. They insisted after seeing them in Peru." He explains.

"You know you didn't have to." Buck says staring at Eddie, not wanting to seem like he's taking advantage of them.

"Buck." Eddie gives him a look. Buck knows it's useless to argue. Especially when it was abuela and Pepa's idea. He sighs, knowing he's lost. Eddie grins proudly. He gets the plates and bowls for the twins. Buck sets the twins in the high chair moving them so it's comfortable.

With them in Buck joins Eddie in the kitchen getting their plates filled, even little cute cups for the twins. Moving around effortlessly. Once everything is set, Chris is mostly done with his plate and is drinking his orange juice. The rest start eating. It's silent at they eat.

Until Chris asks, "how long are you staying?"

"Um... for a while." Buck answers. Chris narrows his eyes. Buck grins. "I'm not sure how long but I've planned for two months at most." Buck says. Chris nods.

"Then you're going back?" Chris wonders looking at his mostly done pancakes.

"Yes." Chris frowns at that. But then smiles. Two months is still a long time.

"What are you going to do?" Eddie asks. "I have to get to work later." Eddie says.

"I wanted to get the room set up, put our clothes away. I don't think that would take too long. I can drop off Chris and pick him up." Buck says. Eddie gives him a look, knowing he's going above and beyond as payback.

"You can talk to Carla about that. She's suppose to pick him up. I have a twelve hour shift today." Eddie says. Buck nods.

"Can the twins come when you drop me off. I want to introduce my friends to them." Chis wonders.

"¿Ir con Chrissy?" (Go with Chrissy?) Isabel asks looking at them wide eyed.

Buck looks at Eddie. Who raises an eyebrow at back. "That sounds nice." Eddie says.

"I guess we're all going." Buck says with a smile. Unsure how the other parents will react to him. They must know Eddie is dating Ana so wouldn't it look bad?

Though who cares when all three kids look excited. Excited for school!

Hen looks up to see Eddie smile. The smile is large, his eyes bright, with a small skip to his step. Hen raises an eyebrow. He's not seen like this much. Not since Buck left. And a little after coming back from vacation did his mood sour. She thinks she knows why but hasn't made a comment on it. After all it's not her place.

But this she will call out. Because she knows what's got him this excited, it could only be one of two things. Buck or his kids. "What's got you so happy?" she asks. A knowing glint in her eye.

Eddie just smiles more as he sits at the table joining her, his tumbler in his hand. "Buck dropped Chris off with the twins this morning. He send me the video." Eddie smiles. Hen gives him a smile back, happy to see him so happy.

She opens her mouth to tease him about it until she freezes, his words registering. "Buck is here!" She almost screams, it's close though. She looks at him stunned by the news.

"Yesterday." Eddie nods.

"Athena and I picked them up from the airport." Bobby says looking at his clipboard, standing by the railing overseeing the bay. They can hear him scribbling something down.

"And? Is he okay?" Hen looks between the two

"Got some bruises and scratches but nothing dangerous." Eddie answers.

"What about that big one on his side?" Bobby wonders turning to look at them.

"I checked it when he and the twins got back this morning. It's going to be there for a while but nothing is broken." Eddie says.

"The twins?" Hen wonders.

"Clingy." Bobby and Eddie say at the same time.

"I'm sure. It must have been scary for them." Hen feels for them.

"Did Buck sleep after we left?" Bobby wonders.

"Yeah. The twins played a bit before they joined Buck. Sleeping for a full fifteen hours. It gave time for Abuela to get some other things for the twins." Eddie twists to look over his shoulder to his captain.

"You said they went crazy right?" Hen smirks at him. Eddie shakes his head at the memory, but he smiles at it.

"It's not until seeing Damian all over Buck yesterday that we realized I don't have any high chairs for them. So they went to get some. They may have also gotten the twins some clothes they spotted, and some stuffed animals. I wish I went with them." Eddie let's out a sigh.

"Why didn't you?" Hen questions with a raised eyebrow.

"They insisted I stay to watch over Buck and the twins." Eddie answers.

"Was Chris surprised?" Hen asks.

"This morning, yeah, Buck said he didn't let go. Only when Buck told him to get ready for school." Eddie smiles, wishing he'd seen it.

"You truly are a family man Eddie. You look like you are in your element." Hen says. Eddie blinks at her. It's not something he would think about himself but maybe she's not wrong.

"If Buck needs anything make sure he knows to ask us." Bobby says. "I know Athena will be there as fast as she can be." Bobby adds with a smirk, as if he won't be the same.

"I'll remind Buck." Eddie makes a mental note to remind Buck. Wanting Buck to be reminded of how loved he is. And he always will be.

"What does Buck plan to do? I mean he's staying for a while right? Does he plan to be a stay at home mom?" Hen asks.

"I don't know he hasn't said anything. Though I think the storm really scared the twins so maybe he'll keep close." Eddie shrugs bringing his tumbler up to his lips.

"But it's Buck." Bobby points out. They know the man will get tired of being home doing nothing. Raising the twins isn't nothing but they are sure Buck has it locked in by now. There's a routine. Routines are boring.

"When it comes to it we'll talk about it." Eddie shrugs.

Both Bobby and Hen stare at the man. The casualness of it, the way the word 'we' rolled off his tongue. Buck and Eddie have always been close, enough they always seemed like a married couple. Especially with the way they co-parent Chris. It has gotten worse now that they now share kids.

Of course neither point it out or comment about it.

"Sorry! Sorry!" Chim runs up the stairs. Bobby looks down at his watch.

"You're fifteen minutes late."

"I know sorry cap, Jee had a diaper emergency then she threw up." Chim quickly explains. Bobby gives him a nod. Going back to his clipboard.

"Are you and Maddie okay, this is the third time you're late." Hen asks with a raised eyebrow, mouth thin.

"Yeah, it's just been work on both ends, Jee and bills. Then Maddie is still worried about Buck. It's all coming together." Chim shakes his head.

"Buck is fine." Hen points out.

"He's safe." Bobby adds. Eddie nods taking a drink from his tumbler.

"He is? Maddie and I have been trying to call him."

"His phone died." Eddie says.

"And I'm sure he is just not talking to you both." Hen adds.

"I've been trying to apologize but he won't answer. He's blocked us on social media as well."

"Why not give your letter to Athena?" Bobby suggests.

"I don't have a letter I was hoping to talk to him face to face." Chim says.

"Tell Athena that. I'm sure she'll relay the message." Eddie says.

"You're really not going to help me?" Chim wonders.

"Did you help me?" Eddie raises an eyebrow at him.

"No."

"Then no. That's between you and Buck." Eddie says coldly.

Before anything else can be said the bell rings. Everyone getting up and rushing.

Chim doesn't say much after that.

Chapter Text

Buck takes a deep breath. Nerves lighting his body. He can feel it at the very tips of his toes and fingers. He takes a deep breath in then out. The palms of his hands sweaty. He can even feel his knees shake even though he's sitting.

"Buck." Eddie says from beside him. "We don't have to go. We could stay home." Home. He says. As if they aren't staying for only two months. A week has already passed. A full seven days of staying with the Diaz boys.

Buck doesn't even bring up the fact that Eddie doesn't mention going himself with Chris. They both know that if Buck doesn't go then the twins don't go. If they don't go then Chris wont want to go. And if Chris doesn't want to go then what's the point of Eddie going?

"I'm just nervous." Buck says flexing his fingers.

"I can see that. We aren't pressuring you Buck." Eddie reminds him kindly.

"I know. I know. It's just... it's been a while. You're sure Chimney and my sister won't be there?" Buck asks looking at Eddie. To Eddie he looks scared. The older man doesn't like it.

"Yes. It's just going to be Athena, Bobby and the kids. The Wilson family. Ravi. Michael and his boyfriend. I think Albert." Eddie answers easily. No secret Buck doesn't want to see his sister or Chim.

"Who's Albert?" Buck says confused, nose scrunching in confusion. Eddie doesn't allow himself to think more about why it's cute.

"Chimney half brother." Eddie watches Buck blink.

"Since when?" Buck eyes almost pop out their sockets. Buck angles his body to face the other man. 

"Since almost a year ago. He's been training to become a firefighter. It was a lot of family drama from Chim honestly." Eddie lets himself grin a bit. Trying to be casual and comforting.

"But no one else right?" Buck is back to his scared and worried look. The grin falling from Eddie face instantly. Eddie has never been the one to comfort other so he knows he's no good at this. But he's trying real hard to comfort Buck, he doesn't think it's working. Maybe a different approach will work. 

"No one else. Besides us. If we ever leave the drive way." Eddie teases. All five buckled and waiting. Have been sitting here for ten minutes at least. Athena giving them the car seats.

Buck takes a deep breath. "Okay." Buck sits back facing forward.

"Okay?" Eddie raises an eyebrow in question.

"Yeah." Buck nods. "I shouldn't cower. It's just I haven't been there since..." Buck trails off slowly and low, the kids in the back watching Chris play some game on his tablet. "It feels weird. Then there's Bobby. I know we have to talk more. I just don't want to." Buck puts his hands on the steering wheel.

"No one said you have to talk to him now. You can just pretend for the night. Enjoying the evening, eat Bobby's food." Eddie knows that Bobby is going all out tonight. Bobby had been asking about the food they ate in Peru. Eddie tried to reassure Bobby that it's okay and he doesn't have to make any Peruvian dishes, not that Eddie knows any. But nothing he said worked. There was a fire in his eyes.

"When did you get so wise?" Buck wonders lightly with a small hint of a tease.

"Maybe it's all that therapy." Eddie smiles. Buck gives his boyish smirk.

"Or you're just getting old." Buck says. Eddie squawks at him.

"I'm not that much older than you." Eddie frowns though the corner of his lips twitch. Buck lets out a giggle. Finally smiling.

"Okay. Okay." Buck takes a breath in then out. "What will happen will happen." He says. Finally starting the car. Eddie's truck. Buck back them up. Driving them to Athena's for a get together.

It's one thing to see Bobby and not have to interact with him considering the circumstance. It's a whole other thing to go to the place he lives for a social gathering. He's just torn about going. He wants to enjoy his time. He's missed these. Before he left, he'd missed a couple. Obviously cause he wasn't invited. That hurt the most. Knowing he wasn't welcomed there anymore.

Now he is only because he was gone and they all felt guilty.

A small part of him feels like he's abusing their guilt. He knows it's not like that. Athena half owns the house (actually she does own the house, Michael gave it to her for the kids), and he's forgiven her. He wasn't mad at her at all.

"You've talked to Bobby right?" Eddie asks.

"We texted a bit." Buck thumps his fingers against the wheel.

"Not even on the drive from the airport?" Eddie watches the side of Buck face.

"No I slept the whole car ride." Buck blushes at that.

Eddie reaches over to place a calming hand on Buck thigh. "Relax. Bobby is just happy you're letting him in a bit." Eddie reassures having seen Buck tense.

Buck takes a quick glance down. "I got it." Buck says, reaching one hand down to grab Eddie wrist. Forcing the hand off his thigh, and back on Eddie lap where it belongs. Buck focus on the road.

Eddie keeps to himself. Hurt, but knowing he shouldn't be. Realizing Buck doesn't allow him close at all recently. The once touchy feely man now keeping to himself. Maybe a hand on the taller man's lower back when he passes him in the kitchen but that's it. They aren't as close as they once were. Not tactile with each other. Eddie doesn't like it. But he knows he can't really bring it up.

When they make it Buck parks and sits. Staring at the house. It looks the same. But why would it have changed? What would have changed?

"Buck?" Eddie calls, door open with his seatbelt unbuckled.

Buck lets out a breath, "let's go." He says unbuckling his seat belt. They exit together, working wordlessly in getting the kids out one parent on either side. With Buck on the side walk he gets two kids. Eddie grabs the twin who sat behind him. Quickly making his way around to join Buck. Reaching over to hold the other twins hand as Buck gets the backpack and helps Chris out.

After locking the car, Buck carries the other twin as Eddie hold the other. Chris walking in front of them.

At first each step made Buck's legs tremble. Knees shaking. His hands becoming clammy. But as he gets closer the familiarity of it all settles him. His mind reminding itself that he's been here before. A calm washing over him. His brain making fun of itself for being cautious. As they walk through the door Buck is smacked with nostalgia. Buck can't help the smile that grows on his face. How this use to be his favorite place besides firehouse 118.

As they go down the steps they hear voices. Sounds like they are the last ones there. Which makes sense. Buck procrastinated every step of the way.

"You made it!" May shouts happily. She goes up to give Buck a hug. Having to go with a side hug with the twin in his arm.

"We almost didn't." Eddie says walking forward. May gives Buck a look of understanding.

"The drinks are set up and Bobby is just finishing up grilling the last of the food." May points out for them.

"I'm going to go find Denny." Chris says walking to the sliding door to the backyard.

"Don't forget to say hi to everyone." Eddie calls. Chris just continues to walk forward.

"How have you been?" Buck wonders.

"Good. I'm thinking about what to do since my gap year is almost over." May smiles.

"What are you thinking?" Buck asks.

"I'm not clear but I like helping people, so something like that." May smiles at them.

"I'm sure you'll find what suits you and is something you enjoy." Buck says looking out through the windows. "I better say hi to everyone." Buck motion with his head to where everyone is.

"Of course." May smiles turning to go somewhere. Eddie sets Isabel down, Buck holding his hand out for her to take.

"I'll get our drinks." Eddie says. Buck just nods, a tight smile on his face.

"Thanks." Buck says, holding onto the twin tightly but not enough to hurt. Eddie watches as he leaves.

Buck steps out taking a second to get a look at everyone. He's not so nervous anymore. Does he want to talk to Bobby? No. But he's excited to be here. Excited the twins will get to experience this.

"Buck!" Athena calls, standing next to Michael and another man. Michael staring wide eyed at him. Buck smiles walking to her, passing Bobby. He can see Chris, Harry and Denny talking.

"Hi Athena." Buck greets happily as he gets closer. Athena smiles.

"How are my babies?" She asks. Isabel and Damian smile at her. At the sight of strangers Damian holds onto Buck closer, shoving his face into Buck neck. The man coos as Michael smiles.

"Happy!" Isabel happily shouts. Karen coos in the back. Damian doesn't answers just turns his face into Buck neck so he wont see them.

"Hey Buck it's been a while." Michael says holding his hand out. Buck reaches forward to grab it. Giving a firm shake.

"It's nice to see you again, Michael." Buck smiles. Feeling a little guilty about forgetting him. Not once did the man cross his mind.

"May wouldn't stop talking about your twins." Michael says looking at Isabel happily talking to Athena who can only watch, as Isabel is talking in a mix of English and Spanish. Spanglish. "This is David my boyfriend." Michael motions to the man besides him.

"I'm Evan Buckley but please just call me Buck." Buck reaches over to shake his hand.

"It's nice to meet you. It's good to have a face to the name. Both May and Harry talk about you." David says with a smile of his own.

"Ah... good things I hope." Buck says.

"Recently all they've talked about are the twins. And a bit jealous how Athena visited you in Peru." He says.

"They are always welcome. After I see the damage the storm caused to my house, but after that you are welcome to." Buck smiles at them.

When Eddie joins them Buck is talking to Michael about construction cost and materials. David introducing himself to Isabel.

Buck goes around talking to everyone. Introducing himself to Ravi and Albert. By then Isabel was happily entertaining herself like the wild child she is, laughing loudly. Damian kept close to Buck or Eddie, but mostly Buck. He'd join his sister or his brother but always gravitated back to Buck.

Then the food is ready. Pulled pork, Bobby's famous Mac and cheese, potato salad, regular salad and grilled corn. Buck of course fills his plate. With an extra for the twins. Eddie getting Chris' and his own. They sit together with Karen. Everyone else surrounding them. Laughter echo. The soft murmur of conversation blanketing them.

After getting their fill everyone scattered again.

So lost in the atmosphere Buck walks up to Bobby. With a large smile on his face he asks, "hey Bobby what'd you marinate the pork in?" casually stepping close to him. Bobby stares owlishly. After being ignored most of the night he not once expected this.

"Uh... I can send you the recipe." Bobby answers staring at Buck.

"Thanks." Buck smiles, then slowly it falls. Buck looks away. Bobby heart breaks at the sight cause he did that. The awkward spreading.

"I'm glad you came." Bobby says, eyes on Buck. Who takes a short glance at Bobby.

"I'm glad I did." Buck says back. Eyes on the twins.

Silence again.

"I'm sorry I hurt you. I was trying to protect you the wrong way and selfishly." Bobby says lowly, but enough for the other to hear. This is more of a private conversation but he can't be picky.

"I understand why you did. I wish it didn't come to the lawsuit but I can't reverse time. But your actions after..." Buck eyes get teary but he holds it in. This conversation shouldn't be happening here but it is. Whatever happens happens, right? "It felt like you only care for me if I behave a certain way, if I behave how you like." Buck whispers. With how close they are he knows the other can hear it.

"It's not like that. Honestly. I didn't mean to make you feel like that. I truly see you like my son, it just got out of hand. Got out of my hands. I was mistaken." Bobby explains. Expression hurt. He made Buck feel like that.

"I..." Buck is speechless. He's happy to know and see Bobby is obviously regretful. How about the fact the older man sees him as a son. But does Buck forgive him?

"I'm truly sorry Buck."

"Are you going to be like Eddie and keep apologizing?" Buck asks staring at Bobby.

"Until you forgive me." Bobby says showing he's serious. He can be stubborn too. A huff escapes Buck lips.

"I think I can put this past me and forgive you. I have with Eddie. I hope you know I was mistaken with the lawsuit." Buck says.

"I know Buck. I let my emotions take control. I'm trying to do better." Bobby says.

"I am too." Buck says. Meeting half way.

"So the twins." Bobby says.

"Isabel and Damian." Buck says proudly, a large smile on his face.

Bobby smiles back. Feeling good now that Buck is back in his life again.

After two years and some months they have a lot to talk about.

And talk they did. Or more like Buck talked and Bobby listen. Pitching in his own commentary here and there. It feels good. His son is back.

"Evan!" A shrill cry echoes over the conversations, making everyone go silent. All eyes going to the voice.

A chill goes down Bucks' spine at his name being called. He twist his body towards the voice. His eyes grow at the sight of his sister rushing towards him. His heart pounds. Chimney rushing behind her, a baby in his arms. Maddie rushes closer. "Evan I'm so glad you-" Buck steps away from her, eyes narrowing. Shoulders squared up. She pauses blinking her surprise.

"Don't get closer." Buck warns her. "I don't want you near me." Buck tells her eyebrow furrowed, jaws tight.

"Why?" Maddie asks shocked by the response. Everyone silently watching.

"I don't like liars." Buck says which makes Maddie flinch back. Buck can't tell if it's in shock or because she's been caught. The observers eyes going to Maddie.

"What are you talking about?" Maddie says, visibly confused, a small shake to her head. Eyes going to Buck.

"Really? Have you ever been a hundred percent honest with me?" Buck asks.

"Yes." Maddie answers instantly.

"You just lied." Buck says, a dark unbelieving chuckle escaping his lips, which has Maddie shaking her head. In the corner of his eyes he spots Chimney looking uncomfortable. Turning his head he takes the man in. The way he looks away, not making eye contact. Guilty. But what does he have to be guilty about?

Buck blinks dumbfounded. He snaps his head to Maddie. "You told him?" Buck asks, feeling betrayed. Here she is lying to him. Her brother. But she's honest with him a man she barely knows for what three years? Four?

"Told him what?" Maddie asks, which makes Buck more furious with her. Is she trying to play dumb?

"You told Chim about Daniel. Didn't you?" Buck asks. Maddie eyes grow wide, face pale.

"How do you...?" Maddie stares at Buck. She doesn't deny it. And even Chim seems shocked he knows the truth. Which answers the question to if Chim knows.

"It's an easy fucking search. It's in our family history. Everything is recorded." Buck hisses at her, getting frustrated.

"Buck-" Chim starts but Buck turning his glare at him stops him.

"Don't you fucking dare." Buck glares at Chim.

"I'm sorry Evan, I promised Mom and Dad." Maddie says placating him.

"Don't use that stupid ass excuse. Twenty plus years Maddie. You could have told me any time. But no. History repeats with you." Buck says angrily. "Stay away from me and my family. I don't want liars around us." Buck walks around them going back to the glass door. Buck whistles. "Come on we're going." Buck orders.

"Mama!" The twins run to him. Easily picking them up. Without a look back Buck walks out.

"Chris!" Eddie shouts turning to his son.

"Coming." He says. Eddie follows after.

Athena clicks her tongue in annoyance before following after. Bobby, Hen and Karen after them. Catching up easily as Buck buckles one of the twins up.

"Buck." Eddie calls softly.

"You can stay." Buck says, angry. Not at him obviously.

"Nope. We're going with you." Eddie says.

"Buck, who is Daniel?" Athena asks.

"Ask Maddie. Seems it's only a secret to me." Buck grumbles. Helping Chris in. Eddie putting his crutches in. Buck closing the door a bit harder than he should.

"Hey, carino." Eddie says grabbing Buck, holding him softly by the shoulder having him face Eddie and the others behind him. "Who is Daniel?" Buck looks down at his feet, eyes watery and eyebrows knitted.

"My older brother." He confesses voice cracking.

"You have an older brother?" Karen asks as surprised as everyone else.

"Had." Buck corrects.

"Oh. I'm sorry Buck." Hen says getting closer.

"I never even met him." Buck shakes his head. "I wasn't even one when he passed away."

"How did he...?" Athena wonders.

"Juvenile leukemia." A tear falling over his cheek. Quickly he wipes it away. Feeling grounded by Eddie large warm hands on his shoulder. Thumb rubbing soothing circles over his shirt. The pad of his thumb finding its spot in the divot of his clavicle.

"Buck, why is that a secret?" Hen asks curious.

"I was born, no, created to be a savior sibling." Buck tells them. They all gasp.

"Don't talk about yourself like that." Eddie says frowning.

"I use to ask why our parent seemed to hate me, why they didn't care. Maddie always said she didn't know. Always told me they are good people just bad parents. What a load of crap." Buck growls out in frustration, his whole face mirroring his emotion. It was all coming out. The truth, the tears. His feelings. He didn't want to stop. He never told anyone this. Faustina knows the truth of him being a savior sibling but he never told her more. "She always said it was us versus them but it never was. It was them versus me. Promise after promise. Each broken. But the one promise she keeps is keeping me in the dark. The one promise she keeps is the one to our parents!" Buck reaches over to grip onto the edge of the truck bed. Knuckles white. "Lie after lie about being there for me but she always left! I'm sick of it!" Buck bangs his fist down hard. "Chance after chance to pick and it was never me. Who'd pick spare parts? Defective parts as it turns out."  Buck leans forward, resting his head on the cold metal. Taking deep breathes.

"Evan Buckley." Athena says sharply stepping up. "You are not spare parts. Nor are you defective. You are Buck. You're strong and resilient. Smart. Funny. Handsome. And you don't give up. You don't run away. That's who you are." Buck turns his head to her. Athena rest her hand on his cheek. "That's why we love you. Now you can pass those wonderful traits to your beautiful kids." Athena says staring into his eyes. Shiny with tears.

Buck pulls her into a hug. "Thank you." He whispers out with a sob. Holding her close. She hugs him close. Eddie rubbing circles in his back.

"We love you Buck." Karen says.

"You are ours Buck." Hen says.

"You're amazing." Bobby says.

He just hold Athena tightly.

"We should go. The kids are falling asleep." Eddie says.

"Thank you." Buck wipes his tears. He gives them all a smile.

"We love you." Athena says to remind him. Buck gives a shy nod.

"Want me to drive?" Eddie wonders.

"No. I will." Buck says.

The group watch as they leave. The truck driving down the street.

They turn to go back in.

Maddie and Chim still there talking with Albert.

"You both need to leave." Athena says sharply.

The two stare shocked. "What?"

"I said leave. You disrupted the gathering." Athena crosses her arms over her chest.

"Buck left his backpack." May points out holding said phthalo green backpack up.

"What's in it?" Karen wonders, if it's important someone might need to chase after them.

"Things for the twins." May says after a quick check.

"They forgot the twins sippy cup." Denny holds up both small cups. A blue one and purple one.

"I'll give it to Eddie when I see him on shift." Bobby says taking both.

"Evan... told you." Maddie points out.

"Out." Athena says firmly, giving them a look. "I'm not going to tell you again." She warns.

"Got it." Chim says grabbing hold of Maddie hand and walking out.

"How'd they know?" May wonders with a frown on her face. Everyone watching them leave.

"Sorry, that was my fault." Albert raises his hand. At the eyes on him he continues. "Chim was texting me, I mentioned being here. I mentioned Buck being here." He says.

"It's not your fault. You didn't know." Hen says. Ravi slaps his back in comfort.

"Sorry." Albert says again hunching in on himself.

As they turn onto the street home Eddie decides to asks. All three kids sleeping. "Buck, how did you learn this?" Eddie can't imagine Buck just getting curious about himself. Something prompted this. After all he spent most of his adult life not knowing. Unless he did. But that doesn't explain why Buck called her out now of all times. It means it's something he learned recently.

"After I learned I was pregnant." Buck doesn't look away from the road. He had a feeling Eddie has more questions.

"It was bad right?" Eddie knows it must have been and he doesn't like hearing about that period in Buck life but he knows it's important.

"Eds," Buck says as he pulls into the driveway. Buck turns the ignition off but neither move. "I was so wracked with guilt." Eddie looks at him confused. "I didn't know I was pregnant. I drank a lot Eds, especially after the lawsuit. I was so hurt. I drank." Buck rest his head on the steering wheel. "I hurt them." Buck tilts his head to show off his guilt to Eddie. Voice cracking

"You didn't know carino." Eddie says unbuckling his seatbelt. "They are fine. They are okay, you didn't hurt them." Eddie says staring into those gorgeous blue eyes.

"But it happened." Buck sobs out. "By the time I learned about them abortion wasn't an option, I wouldn't have done that anyways, but the option was taken from me. I wanted to do better for them." Buck follows in taking his own seatbelt off.

"You have." Eddie says hands aching to touch the other, but he's reminded of earlier in the car. He pulls his hand back.

"The doctors asked about my family history. I didn't know much. I didn't want to risk it so I made some calls and did my research. That's when I learned about Daniel. Everything just clicked. I spiraled again." Buck keep his eyes away from Eddie. Looking down at his lap.

Edie swallows thickly. "What did you... do?" Heart racing in his chest. Knowing for a fact he's not going to like this.

"I was tempted to... I was suicidal again." Buck looks down ashamed.

"Buck." The words are lodged in his throat. Eddie looks at him horrified.

"I talked to a therapist. Dr. Copeland. Since she knew me already. I don't have those thought anymore. I'm better." Buck reassured him.

"I'm sorry this all happened to you, I wish I was there for you." Eddie really wishes he was. That whole fucking year was after Buck. Their actions are what broke the camels back. But it seems things kept breaking.

"I do too. I wished someone was there. Someone who knew me. I felt so alone and overwhelmed I couldn't take it." Buck eyes water and his lips wobble.

"You did it." Eddie says. Eddie reaches forward hand on Buck neck, pulling the other into a hug. Awkward with how the center console is in the way. Buck lets out a gasp. "You're amazing Buck. You came out stronger." Eddie says as the taller man hugs him back. "The twins are healthy too." Large shoulder shaking with barely there sobs. Eddie holds him until Buck feels okay. One of Eddie hands go up to touch the short hairs on the back of his neck. Reaching further to stroke the back of Buck skull.

Eventually Buck cries his tear ducts dry. His eyes red rimmed, tear streaks on his cheeks. His curly hair already messy. They work in silence to get the kids in pajamas and in bed. The two joining after.

That night Eddie wish he could have Buck next to him. To comfort him. To hold him. To tell him more how proud he is of Buck. But that's not his life.

Eddie is on the couch eyes on his phone. Spending the free day with Buck and the kids before his shift began. A longer one this time. Deciding to go to the zoo as a family. It was nice, and a good way to forget the gathering. To forget seeing his sister and learning she told Chim.

But now Eddie is at work. Eddie takes a breath. Buck seemed better this morning. It must have helped getting all those feelings off his chest. Who knew how much he wanted to talk about it other than to his therapist?

"Is Buck okay?" Hen asks joining him. She finished the last of her chore. Eddie bulldozed through his as he wanted a break from thinking. And now he's here thinking.

"With?" Eddie asks. Hen gives him a looks, they both know what she's talking about.

"Everything? I'm sure he needs a moment." Hen says, knowing everyone stepped away from Buck to let him have some time alone with his family.

"He's hurt about it all. I can't imagine having a hidden brother." Eddie says face cringing at the idea.

"To think, a savior sibling." Hen says with a shake of her head. "Knowing you weren't wanted." Hen face scrunches.

"The worst part is... Buck knew Maddie would have kept it a secret." Eddie points out frowning.

"If Buck didn't know himself I'm sure. What else did she lie about, has lied about?" Hen says frowning.

"Buck already said it before, those Buckley promises. Them against their parents. Lie. She'd be there for Buck. Lie." Eddie says unhappy.

"Does he feel better after a day with the kids?"

"Yeah. I think he's been holding that truth too close to his chest and now that it's gone... he can breathe."

"Chris and the twins? I'm sure they sensed the mood."

"They did, but no one asked. Just watched Buck the whole day. It was broken when we decided to go the zoo."

"Please tell me you have pictures?" Hen ask hopeful.

"Of course. Buck needed that." Eddie says taking his phone out of his pocket.

He shows Hen some of the pictures, and a video of a snake scaring the twins. Damian keeping close to Buck. Isabel and Chris were being silly. Buck of course talked about all the facts he knows. Having to talk in English and Spanish. It was nice and funny. Helped forget, not that it needed to be forgotten but helped forget it for a while.

Hen and Eddie are laughing at a video of all three kids trying to catch some rabbits. The zoo had an area to pet animals. Most were closed for the animals to rest, but the rabbits were open.

"You both knew!" Hen and Eddie jump up turning to see Chim glaring at them.

"What?" Both look at him confused.

"About Buck and his kids. Why didn't you say anything?" Chim says accusing them.

"That was Buck's choice not mine." Hen says sternly standing to meet his eyes.

"After all the times I asked-"

"It wasn't about what you or Maddie wanted. Back off Chimney." Eddie glares stepping up.

"Why are you mad at me?"

"Because!" Eddie says grabbing his shirt, "you still haven't apologized to Buck about what you said which is one of the many reasons why Buck left. I lost two years of my kids life and didn't know! And yet here you are demanding why we didn't tell you anything. So far it's been all about you and Maddie." Eddie glares, Hen pulling him back by the arm.

"Hey," Bobby says walking to them. "Let him go Eddie." Bobby orders. Eddie lets him go not to kindly. Before Bobby can say anything more the bell rings.

The call is to a small restaurant fire, a waiter getting burned. The whole car ride was stilted. Eddie's mood obvious, no one wanted to poke the sleeping lion. Bobby was worried about Eddie's hostile mood but there was nothing to worry about. Eddie kept his professionalism, Chim kept to himself.

Bobby finds Eddie glaring as he put some of the equipment away. "Eddie." Bobby calls getting Eddie to look at him, his eyes narrowed still. "Do we need to talk?" Bobby asks like he would a child.

"Bobby," he says his name in warning.

"You're not in trouble but I just don't want you punching Chim. You might knock a tooth out." He says, half serious and half joking.

"I was tempted Bobby." Eddie says honestly. "You didn't see Buck afterwards." Eddie says.

"I'm guessing it was worse than what we saw."

"Yes. I want Buck to be happy, even if he is only here for two months. After learning... that..." Eddie gestures out randomly, "I don't want them near us." Eddie says.

"Okay. I'll talk to him." Bobby says with a nod. Knowing it's best to keep them away from each other, and make sure Chim doesn't try to talk to Eddie about anything personal.

They are on their way back to the firehouse when they get another call. A pile up on the freeway.

They get there, get out the engine, and walk to an officer to get an idea on what is going on. It just so happen to be Athena. "What do we got?" Bobby asks.

"Pile up. We're trying to find out what caused it but it seem to have happened fast. There should be another house on the other end." Athena answers, serious when in work mode.

"Then we're going to work until we meet in the middle." Bobby says knowing the drill at this point.

"If you need anything-" Athena says in work mode, but Eddie walks in between them. Eyes on something.

"Eddie?" Bobby calls.

"That's my truck!" Eddie shouts, eyes wide and heart racing.

Chapter Text

"Wait Eddie explain." Athena calls him.

"Buck wanted to do some errands today so I lent him my truck." Eddie looks back at them scared. He quickly turns back to his truck, now on it's side. A large dent on the side and back, caving it in. "Buck! Isabel! Damian!" Eddie shouts running to his truck. Blood thundering in his ears.

"Hen! Chim! Triage." Bobby orders with a stern look to Hen and Chim who look worried. "Everyone else go, get as many people out of those cars." He orders the rest quickly stepping to the engine for tools. He looks at Eddie climbing onto a car next to his truck to see into the truck. His truck on the larger side so stepping on this clown of a car doesn't help.

Bobby runs to Eddie to help get Buck and the twins. Athena behind them but not getting in the way. "Buck!" Eddie yells, looking in the front window to see inside. He doesn't spot Buck with the cracks of the windshield not helping. Bobby joins him.

"Here." Bobby hands over the axe, one of Buck's favorite. Taking it Eddie destroys his windshield exposing an empty car. 

It pauses them both. No car seat either. "Buck!" Eddie shouts, unless someone stole his truck he's going to say Buck is here. His eyes land on familiar shoes, following long legs down to Buck laying on the side window, said window broken and cracked. The sight so similar to Buck face down and pinned by the ladder truck. "Buck!" Eddie gets down, moving to get on Buck level. As soon as he's close enough Eddie puts two fingers on Buck neck.

He feels a pulse. He lets the tension release. "He's alive." Eddie looks up Bobby who is looking worried. He hands over the axe to Bobby who takes it, setting it down to help.

Eddie checks on him, worried that Buck hasn't moved but after a quick look over he doesn't find anything is broken. Eddie moves Buck, pulling him close, Buck face first into his chest, but it's hard as he's large and on the heavier side, with him not awake his whole body is lax, adding to the dead weight. 

It's a lot of grunting to get just his upper torso out through the windshield. Like trying to move a drunk friend. Or one sleeping. Bobby coming up behind him to help. Bobby holds Buck as Eddie moves to get the rest of Buck out. Checking him out as they get inch after inch of his long legs out. Once out the two move to hurry and get Buck to safety. Bobby carries Buck to triage.

Once Bobby gets Buck down, Eddie is on him. There's a cut on the side of his face, on his forehead, bleeding blood down.

"The twins?" Athena asks worried.

"They weren't in there." Bobby tells her. Athena lets out a breath.

"Is he okay?" Athena asks turning to Eddie.

"The worst thing I can see is the cut on his face." Eddie says moving to the rest of his body, he's got small cuts on his arms. Hen rushes to him with a med kit, Eddie taking it with a grateful look. She gives him a smile then rushes away knowing Eddie will take care of Buck.

"Mmm?" Buck mumbles.

"Buck, baby?" Athena moves to get into view. Looking at his eyes slowly open. Eddie moves to wipe away the blood to get to his cut. Buck hisses moving his head away.

"What-?" Buck croaks his eyes squinting. "Why?" Buck wonders looking at them confused. Eddie moves again. "Ow!" Buck cries.

"Stay still I need to clean the cut." Eddie orders.

"Cut?" Buck looks at Eddie confused and still disoriented.

"Buck what do you remember?" Athena asks worried.

"I was driving. I wanted... to get some food for..." Buck closes his eyes then opens them again, "the twins, they missed home. I was planning on making aji de gallina..." Buck winces at Eddie disinfecting the cut, lucky not deep and shouldn't scar over, "but I need to find a carniceria for the ingredients. I was on my way there when..." Buck closes his eyes again, "the car in front of me wasn't paying attention and hit the car in front of them." Buck opens his eyes. "I stopped, about to get out to see if they were okay but then someone rammed into me. Then I saw someone coming at me from the side so I jumped out of the driver seat to the passenger... I don't remember after that." Buck explains looking at Athena.

She nods. "Where are the twins?" She asks.

"Abuela. She has all the kids today." Buck says.

"Did you finish your errands?" Eddie wonders.

"Yeah, that's why I was going to the carniceria." Buck answers.

"Sorry." Eddie says before shining a light in Buck eyes. "No concussion." Eddie says.

"Oh good." Buck says sarcastically.

"How are you feeling?" Eddie says holding Buck's arms, getting some glass out of the small cuts.

"Sore. And now I really want to take a nap." Buck says looking around. "Where's my phone? I told abuela that I would call her." Buck says.

"I'll go see if I can find it." Athena says.

"You both good?" Bobby asks.

"Good." Buck and Eddie answer at the same time. Eddie doesn't look away from Buck. Buck watches Bobby rush away. More likely helping others. Buck lets out a sigh.

"Sorry." Buck says looking away from Eddie.

"For?" Eddie looks at the small wounds, takes a moment to look at him.

"Your car." Buck answers, a small hint of attitude.

"It's not your fault." Eddie says earnestly.

"Still feel bad about it." Buck says a small pout to his lips. "I'll get you a new one." Buck look at Eddie, blue eyes sincere.

"It's not your responsibility." Eddie tells him. Not wanting the other to feel responsible.

"How are you getting home after work?" Buck wonders one eyebrow raised in question.

"I'll asks Hen or Bobby." Eddie answers with a shrug. Both know it's not a good solution, as who will get the twins from abuela? What about the weekends? Chris? Chores, like groceries? The Diaz household needs a car.

"I can do it. Figure things out with your insurance. See if I can get a replacement for you." Buck suggest. They are going to need a car, especially if they want to do anything fun. With three kids in the household, their energy needs to go somewhere. And with Chris just walking to a park isn't an option.

"Buck you don't have to." Eddie looks at Buck.

"I want to. I feel guilty. You're letting me and the twins stay for free. Then I go and wreck your truck. Let me do this." Buck says seriously, looking at him with the same serious look on his face. Eddie stares at him.

"Okay." Eddie agrees. Letting Buck do this for him, he can do it himself but if Buck wants to he doesn't have the heart to say no. Not when Buck looks at him like that. Buck gives him a smile. Eddie can't help himself from smiling back. "Now take your shirt off. I need to check on the bruise and what else may have formed." Eddie says seriously.

Buck frowns. "Really?" Buck wonders.

"Really. Off." Eddie demands patting the other's arm. And Buck pouts, but does what he's told. Eddie takes a look over his body, ignoring the heat that it's causing him. The large bruise on Buck side its getting better but now there are some on his back from the impact.

Making sure Buck is okay that's what Eddie focuses on.

Buck sits on the couch in the firehouse loft with an icepack on his head. Having gained a small bump on his head.

Both Bobby and Eddie didn't want him out of their sight, with him not needing to go to the hospital, he was dragged with them. Athena saying she will pick him up after her shift which should be ending soon. Eddie still has a couple hours. He'll be coming home in the morning.

"Buck." Eddie calls setting a cup of water down with some pain killers. Buck takes it happily. Looking at Eddie Buck knows he's going to get a talking too.

"What?" Buck wonders, he can't have gotten in trouble he hasn't done anything, besides the whole truck tipped over. That wasn't his fault.

"You're limping." He points out sitting on the coffee table. "You said you weren't in pain." Eddie crosses his arms, face hard.

"You're not going to let it go?" Buck asks exasperated. He can spot Bobby making something and Hen hovering. Chim is no where near but Buck can't imagine he's far.

"No. Tell me. Do we need to take you to the hospital?" Eddie brown eyes taking in every inch of Buck, taking note of everything. To make sure the younger of the two isn't lying to him.

"No. I'm fine. It's just my bad leg." Buck says with a smile, hoping that calms his nerves.

"What-!" Eddie sits straighter eyes wide as he takes in Buck, who interrupts him with a hand raised. Hen getting closer and Bobby looking at them.

"It's just chronic pain. I almost lost it, the doctors told me I'll get side effects. It aches sometimes. More often than not. I'm fine." Buck explains to them. Forgetting for a second they don't know.

"What do you do for the pain?" Eddie asks, tension releasing from his shoulders, but face in a frown. He doesn't like the thought of Buck being in pain at all.

"Just some pain killers. That usually helps. If not a hot bath and a message. It hasn't been this bad for a while." Buck says reaching down to rub the knee on his bad leg. 

"Want me to give your leg a message?" Eddie volunteers.

"No." Buck says angling his knees away from Eddie, staring at Eddie with narrowed eyes.

"Are you sure?" Eddie asks, a small part of him is sad by the outright rejection. Eddie thought they were close again.

"Yes." Buck sits back, eyes closing. "Wake me when Athena is here." Buck says body relaxing. Hand not holding the icepack shooing him away. Eddie let's out a sigh.

He moves to get go down to the gym. Let off some steam.

Buck is woken up by Bobby to feed him. He doesn't talk to anyone but Hen, Bobby and Eddie.

After eating he calls Abuela again to check on the twins.

When Athena shows up Buck is ready to leave. Bobby remembering about the backpack. Buck leaves with a wave goodbye.

And not ten minutes after does Maddie walk in. Eddie ignores her, sure she came for Chimney anyway.

He's wrong.

"I actually came for you Eddie." Maddie turns to Eddie, answering Chim question. Eddie gives her a look after getting his water bottle. Eddie stares at her deadpan.

"No." Eddie tells her knowing what she's here for. Chim must have told her that he's the twins father.

"You don't even know what I'm going to say." Maddie frowns at being rejected out right. Arms crossing over her chest.

"I don't need to. The answer is no." Eddie shrugs his shoulder.

"Eddie please, I just want to talk to Buck." Maddie pleads stepping towards him.

"No is no." Eddie tells her with a hard look on his face. He's not backing down. He never really contacted or interacted with Maddie, but what he's heard recently he doesn't have the best opinion of her. Currently she's lumped with her parents.

"Please." Maddie pleads. Not backing down.

"Cap." Eddie turns to the man. Bobby lets out a sigh. Eddie will explode.

"Maddie," he calls her name soft but firm.

"Bobby please. I just want to talk to my brother." Maddie turns her pleading face towards him.

"Sorry Maddie but if you're going to disrupt my firefighters I can't let you in here." Bobby looks at Maddie in sympathy.

"Maddie, just wait for Buck." Chim says. The irony not lost on any of them.

"Buck has his own kids to focus on, he doesn't have time for you." Hen says harshly. Not liking the fact she came here, ambushing Eddie. Just to get her way. She ambushed Buck already. She's made her choices why can't she sit and deal with the consequences?

Maddie stays silent, slowly she turns. Head hung low in defeat.

Eddie gives a glare to Chim as he makes his way to the couch to relax.

Eddie changes, mind going on autopilot, anger gone. Chim following Bobby warning, and has kept him away. Not getting close to him. Which he likes.

Eddie moves, grabbing his cup and duffel ready to go home. His bed is calling for him. And what makes him happy is the thought that at home Buck has breakfast at home for him. The twins are going to come yelling for him, running with their tiny legs to him. He loves the feeling. It feels like his heart is going to explode. In a very good way.

As he steps out of the bay he pauses. Remembering he doesn't have a car. He's been in somewhat a daze because they got a call in the middle of the night, so no one has gotten enough sleep. He thinks about who might still be here. Bobby, but he stays a bit longer to finish some work and he doesn't want to wait on him. For Hen, he feels guilty. Just like him she just wants to get home to her family like him.

A honk gets his attention. Making him jump. He looks over to see Buck hanging his head and hand out a grey Subaru. Raising his eyebrow he walks forward. Buck is smiling at him which makes Eddie smile back.

"I was worried I didn't make in time." Buck says when the older man is closer to the car.

"What's with the car?" Eddie says.

"It's just a rental. I thought why rent a truck when you can try something else? We can try. I'm sort of liking it, maybe I'll trade my Jeep in for one." Buck happily explains. Eddie walking to the back seat door. Opening it he comes face first with the twins.

"Papa!" they both shout happily. He smiles at them. He sets his duffel down on the floor of the car.

"Hola princesa." (Hello princess.) Eddie smiles at Isabel who beams, he goes to kiss her, using his hand to tickle her stomach causing her to laugh and squirm in her seat, kicking her feet. "Hola mi pequeño príncipe." (Hello my little prince.) Eddie looks over to Damian who beams, also in his seat on the other side. His eyes then go over to Buck who is twisted in the drivers seat, elbow on the center console watching with adoration and a smile on his face. Eddie feels his heart about to explode.

Quickly Eddie steps back and closes the door and gets in the passenger side. Sliding his seat belt on. Mind thinking of what to say. "So the Subaru?" Eddie questions, his mind coming up with that. Eddie mentally slaps his forehead.

"Okay, so I lied." Buck locks the doors getting the car on. "This was the only thing they had left." Eddie shakes his head smile on his face. "I knew I couldn't be picky, though Athena did help me with your insurance." Buck says driving out the lot.

"And?"

"Someone slept behind the wheel, causing the accident. So your insurance will cover it but it's a coin toss on if it will be enough. We'll see what the estimate is. And the truck is totaled." Buck explains. Eddie nods.

"How long do you have the rental for?"

"Until a day after the estimate comes."

"Then I guess we'll wait." Eddie says, speaking of waiting. Eddie takes a look at Buck from the corner of his eye. Should he tell the other about Maddie? I don't like liars, is what Buck had said. Keeping the truth is what got Maddie into that mess, Eddie doesn't want to repeat it. "Oh, Maddie came by." Eddie catches the way Buck grimaces.

"Does she know I don't work there?" Buck wonders, twisting his grip on the wheel

"I think she does, she came looking for me? I shut her down though." Eddie makes sure to say, wanting Buck to know Eddie is on his side. From now on always.

"Thanks. Sorry I got you caught up in my drama."

"You've gotten caught in my drama, I'll say it's even." Eddie smirks at Buck, causing the taller man to chuckle. Eddie heart fluttering at the sound. "Chris?"

"At school. I dropped him off before coming here. There's breakfast at home for you. After dropping you off at home I was going to take the twins to the park." Buck explains. Eddie feeling all warm a gooey on the inside. Safe. Happy. Content.

Before he knows it he's asleep.

Chim doesn't say much or asks about Buck any longer.

But now that the cat is out of the bag Bobby, Hen and Eddie talk about the twins happily out loud, without sneaking glances. Hidden looks. Or even just being overly cautious on who is around.

Eddie can happily brag about the twins, how cute they are. How cute they are with Chris. He can even show them videos or pictures Buck sent him. Hen teases him about it. Eddie can only shrug his shoulders. He's happy and he loves his kids. Sue him.

Chim just sits back listening. He can relay anything he wants back to Maddie as long as they don't get near Buck again.

All are gathered on the couch or in Hen case playing games. Bobby walks out of his office with a smile on his face.

"What's got you so happy, captain?" Eric asks, a smug smile on his face. Everyone taking a quick look at him.

"Athena, my wonderful wife, has graciously volunteered to cook us lunch today." Bobby absolute beams.

"Oh, Athena is cooking." Hen says with a grin on her face, focuses on her game. Everyone else buzzing with excitement.

The bell rings before they get too excited. They all run to get their turnouts on then hopping into the engine. They are of course professional. This time happy at the thought they may have food waiting, depending on how long this call takes.

Not long it turns out.

When they get to the station, and up the loft they find Athena in the kitchen. She's in civilian clothes with an apron on. She moves around the kitchen with a seriousness any one would expect when she's doing her job. She notices them and smiles. "Welcome back!" She greets. Bobby moving to kiss her on her cheek, Athena leaning an inch towards him.

"Hope you prepared enough for all us hungry firefighters." Bobby smiles walking to sit on the counter, to watch.

"And more. I hope you don't mind I invited a guest to eat with us?" Athena says looking at Bobby. That has everyone looking at each other.

"I don't mind. But who?" Bobby asks, he doesn't mind, and he enjoys having guests at the firehouse. Of course Athena wouldn't bring someone dangerous but he would like to know who it is.

"I'm not late am I?" A voice calls for them, a familiar voice, feet rushing up the stairs. Coming in view is Buck.

"I'm almost done!" Athena calls back with a smile. "I called him to check on him, so I invited him, he said he was out anyway." She quickly explains.

Hen lets out a whistle. "You look so fancy." Hen smiles. All eyes going to Buck in his suit. A nice pressed solid navy blue blazer and trousers. Matching oxfords and tie, with a stripe of very light blue. His shirt the same off white blue as the stripe in his tie. A matching pocket square. And to add to it a silver tie clip. His hair jelled back but parted on the side covering the cut. His eyes seem to pop.

"Had some business to do today." Buck shrugs with a smile. He leans his back against the railing.

"The twins?" Eddie wonders. Buck raises an eyebrow at him.

"Carla is watching them." Buck tilts his head at Eddie. Eddie surrenders, he was just curious. Buck doesn't seem like the one to let them near strangers.

"What business do you have?" JJ wonders. Buck turns to him, blue eyes scanning him.

Buck gives a smile, "nothing a himbo like me could explain to you." Buck eyes are cold just like his voice.

The air is silent. Eyes turn to JJ. His face scrunching in displeasure. Cheeks a bit red. A phone chime catches most of the others attention. Turning they spot Buck pulling his phone out his pocket. Buck starts texting back.

The question is on the top of his tongue but Eddie is aware he shouldn't ask. It's not his place. Who Buck talks to is his business. They are just co-parents. Truly co-parents now.

"You're married!" A voice screams. But no one acknowledges it, even Buck who continues to stare down at his phone. "Buck, you're married?" Chim shouts again.

"Mm?" Buck looks up. Now people are paying attention to Buck, eyes going to his hand.

"You have a ring." Hen points out. Eddies eyes glaring at it.

Buck moves his hand to see. He lets out a chuckle, "no, this is just to get people to back off." Buck smiles at them then turns back to his phone. "I forgot to take it off."  Everyone including Bobby looks relieved at the news. Buck takes it off, slipping it into the blazer pocket.

"Umm... Buck can we talk for a second?" Chim asks getting closer.

"Sure." Buck lowers his phone, giving his attention to the short man.

"I mean in private." Chim says, eyes taking a glance at the others.

"No." Buck answers coldly.

"Please."

"You made fun of me and called me names while in private, so no." Buck says sharply. "If you want to say something do it in front of them all." Buck crosses his arms over his chest. Chim looks at them all staring. Athena is cooking but he knows she's listening.

"Then I'm sorry." Chim says looking at Buck.

"Okay." Buck says looking at his phone as it buzzes again.

"So you forgive me?" Chim face lights up.

"No." Buck answers texting something. "That was just a weak ass apology, but I'm not going to force a better one out of you." Buck tells him casually.

"Look Buck I'm sorry for being mad at you, for the things I said to you, for being mean too you. I was wrong, sorry." Chim says, looking desperate.

"Okay. But stay away from me, especially Maddie." Buck gives Chim a look.

"Still?" Chim eyes widen.

"You hurt me and you haven't shown anything about how sad you are about it. Why should I believe you. Or Maddie, I can't trust anything she says, by proxy you either." Buck answers calmly.

"I only knew about Daniel when your parents showed up for Maddie pregnancy. You weren't here." Chim justifies.

Buck nods, that's true "but the rest?" Buck asks staring at Chim. Chim can only stare back, mouth opening and closing like a fish.

He doesn't have an answer.

"Lunch is ready." Athena calls. Bobby moving to help put everything on the table.

"Yes. I'm starving." Buck smiles sliding his phone back into his pocket. He slides his hands to the buttons of his blazer, undoing them. He slides his blazer off, straightening it out to rest on the railing while he eats.

"Wow." Hen says sitting at the table. Eddie too, twisting back in his seat to get a look of Evan Buckley in a double breasted waistcoat. He's wearing a three piece suit! Eddie can't keep his eyes away. The trousers hugging his legs perfectly, not too tight but not loose and baggy. The vest hugging his hips and waist, showing off the cinch in his waist now. The button up hugging his biceps nicely, more like a second skin. Then Buck does something that makes Eddie brain short circuit. Buck pops the buttons on his sleeve to push them up. Exposing his forearm.

Eddie immediately turns away, facing a Cheshire grinning Hen. He glares at her. Buck sitting next to him, sandwiching in between Eddie and Bobby. Hen and Athena across from them. He feels himself warming up.

"Tell me the truth Buckaroo, what business?" Athena asks, the table already passing dishes back and forth. Buck smiles at Athena. Knowing the women worries.

"I help my friend manage his company, since I've been in Peru I usually contact them via emails but today I needed to go in person." Buck explains as he takes in the plates of food. Planning what to get.

"What friend?" Hen asks.

"An old SEAL buddy of mine." Buck answers casually passing the salad over. Everyone pausing.

"Uh, Buck, what?" Hen asks mouth in the floor.

"You were in BUD/S?" Eddie asks, looking at Buck seeing him in a whole new light.

"I almost graduated but as the day drew closer I couldn't stop thinking about how mindless and machine like, emotionless, they wanted me. I couldn't do it so I talked to my commander. They let me go. My buddy during training called me after his first tour to see if I could manage the company he wants to start while he's away. I agreed, since he helped plead my case to get out. I started the company, and now I just help manage it for the extra funds." Buck says getting a plate happily.

"Wait, doesn't that mean you co-own the business?" Chim asks frowning.

"Technically. If he wants full control he needs to buy me out." Buck answers looking down at his plate.

"Pay out is how much?" Athena wonders.

"Ah... I don't know..." Buck shrugs, "a couple million." The chokes echo around the table. Bobby is just frozen. Has been this whole time.

"Buck, you're a millionaire?" Eddie asks looking at him. Buck frowns.

"I'm not a millionaire." Buck shakes his head.

"Then what are you?" Athena asks. Buck blinks then turns to Chimney.

"Chim come on explain it to them." Buck pleads. Chim blinks his surprise.

"I don't know what you want me to say," Chim says not able to wrap his head around this. Buck eyes just widen.

"Um... Maddie didn't tell you?" Buck asks tensely.

Chim shifts in his seat, "tell me what?"

"That... we're trust fund babies." Buck slowly says.

"That's worse!" Hen points out.

"How?" Buck asks confused.

"That means you must have more money than we thought." Hen says.

"How are you a trust fund baby?" Chim wonders.

"Pennsylvania. It's one of the original thirteen states. Our family been around since like the first thanksgiving. Our grandparents on both sides had money. They were old money. As times changed they left money for us." Buck says in the duh tone.

"How come Maddie hasn't told me?" Chim sounds hurt. Buck cringes at that. Is he happy with Chim? No. But he didn't want to bring more secrets out especially if Maddie hasn't told Chim anything. The last thing he wants is to get in the middle of their relationship.

"Maddie might not have any left. I mean she was married to Doug for so long. I don't think she signed a prenup. Doug probably took the money." Buck shrugs. "I think." Buck doesn't want to assume.

"How are you so calm about this?" Eddie asks.

"Why are you all freaking out about it?" Buck counters.

"So...? How much money do you make?" Hen wonders.

"From? I don't touch my inheritance much so I don't know. The money I make from managing I half put into saving while I keep my paycheck from firefighting job in my account to use." Buck says. "I make the same as you all. Though it's different since I work in Peru. I work because I like to." Buck explains to them. Seeing now when Buck turned down the settlement it truly is because he just wants to work.

"We need to stop you're giving me a migraine." Athena says rubbing her forehead.

"You asked." Buck says feeling wronged, a pout on his face.

"I shouldn't have." Athena says regretting it. She didn't know she was opening Pandora's box.

"Did you use your inheritance for your house then?" Hen asks.

"No." Buck says, "I just use money in my regular bank account." He says like it's obvious.

"Then what's your inheritance for? You don't use it?" Chim asks.

"Of course I do, I just use it if I want to splurge on something. Plus I'm leaving that for Chris and the twins." Buck says with a smile.

"Really?" Eddie stares wide eyed at Buck, not able to hear what is coming out of his mouth.

"Yeah, I want to make sure if something were to happen to me they'd be covered." Buck says.

"Even Chris?" Eddie asks tensely.

"Of course, I love Chris." Buck tells him staring straight into those chocolate eyes. Eddie stares shocked. 

"All right you two let's finish this meal in peace." Athena says interrupted their moment.

Chapter Text

Eddie slowly walks out of the room, having put all the kids to bed with kisses. His heart feeling full. He walks into the living room, finding Buck with a book, and cup of juice. The one he made with the kids. It has Sprite, fruit punch and sherbet. The kids love it. Buck seems to enjoy it too.

Eddie joins Buck on the couch. Falling with all his weight on the seat next to Buck.

"Can I ask," Eddie starts Buck closing his book, setting it on his lap. Head and body turned to Eddie who sat on the other end. "Why include Chris in your will? I get the twins but..." Eddie knows he feels his heart fill with the idea that Buck did that but it's not his responsibility.

"I did it a long time ago. When I updated it after the twins were born I didn't want to erase him off it." Buck says, he drinks some from is cup, then sets it over on the coffee table.

"How long ago?" Eddie wonders.

"After the truck bombing." Buck looks down at the book in his lap. "I thought I was going to die. The first thing I thought of was Chris. I wanted Chris to be able to do what he wants, no matter the cost. He'll be able to find his career without worry. I knew you have been stressing about it." Eddie just watches Buck.

"But you're okay." Eddie points out. He lived, and yet he still changed it.

"I know. It was originally going to be half and half, half goes to Chris and half is donated to St. Jude's or to others with CP. Ali broke up with me so I changed it." Buck shrugs his shoulders as if it's not a big deal.

"And now?" Eddie wonders.

"It should be split evenly between all three of them. I don't plan on having anymore kids but if for some reason I do, again it will be split evenly. The house goes to the twins and along with my share in the business."

"That's fair. You didn't even have to add Chris to your will."

"Eddie, I love Chris. Even though he's not mine... it feels like he is. I missed him these two years. I just didn't want to sneak behind your back or make him keep a secret from you." Buck says.

Eddie looks down in his lap. Teeth biting his lip. The urge to apologize is strong. Buck had said he's tired of hearing those words. It's no longer time for words but action. It just wrecks his heart with guilt. He had been mad that Buck didn't once contact Chris, it hurt Chris as well. To think he was forgotten again. But he wasn't. Buck just didn't want to put Chris is a tight spot. Eddie would have been mad at Buck for doing that. And yet he was mad Buck didn't do that.

Buck is too... lovable? Caring? Sincere?

But that's what draws people in. Eddie most of all.

Eddie stares at his phone. Sitting on the couch, hand on his mug of coffee the other holding his phone.

Hen watching him with Chim at his side.

His lips dipping down, his eyebrows lowers, and eyes narrowed. He looked more like he wanted to kill someone than whatever he's doing. He's looking more and more ready to snap. Wanting to save some lives Hen moves towards him. Sitting on the couch beside him.

"Is something wrong?" Hen asks a bit worried. Eddie face calms as he looks at her.

"What?" He looks at her confused.

"You've been glaring at your phone. Did something happen? Are Buck and the twins okay?" Hen is getting worried.

"No. They're fine." Eddie says raising his eyebrow. Curious to why she would think that. Hen calms but now she's more curious.

"Why are you staring at your phone like you were going to murder it?"

"... was I?" Eddie asks shocked.

"Yes, no one wanted to get close." Chim answers watching from a few feet away. Looking around Eddie sees the loft is empty.

"I'm just looking at cars." Eddie answers looking back at his phone screen.

"What about them?" Hen wonders.

"I don't want a truck again. Maybe something good for Chris and the twins. But I can't find one that I like." Eddie explains, face back to murder.

Hen stares at him as she takes a sip from her coffee. "They aren't going to be here long though." Hen points out softly. Eddie pauses. Face smoothing over at the realization.

"I know." Deep down Eddie does know. Truly but it just feels wrong not having them around. He knows he is jumping a head but he can't help it. Life is good.

Eddie continues to look, but with a saddened expression now. Hen feels bad about it. It's reality though.

Slowly some other come up the loft to relax. Bobby even coming out his office. Lunch is about to start so Bobby busies himself with it.

Eddie idly scrolls through his phone. It makes more sense that he would just get a truck again. He just really doesn't want to. It feels wrong. It's not right.

"Papa!" The voice echoes. Eddie sits up looking around until he spots running up the stairs first is Isabel. She looks around trying to find her papa. Eddie stands up quickly, rushing to her in a few strides. He picks her up, looking over to see Damian holding onto the rail, going one step at a time. Isabel giggles as she holds onto her dad.

Seeing no one else Eddie questions, "¿Dónde está mamá?" (where's mama?) Hen getting closer with a smile.

"Mamá habla con un hombre extraño." (Mama talk to strange man.) Isabel answers waving at Hen.

"What?" Eddie looks at her confused, and slightly worried. What strange man is Buck talking to? Is he in danger? Is that why the twins are here?

"Papa." Damian whines at him. "Mama." He points out, face sad. Eddie picks him up as well moving them over to the couches so he can go to Buck.

"Is something wrong?" Hen wonders seeing her friends worried faces.

"It's Buck, he is talking to a stranger. I'm going to go-" Eddie starts to explain but is cut off by Buck's boisterous laughing. All heads turn away from Eddie to the sound. Slowly walking up the stairs is Buck. A man around the same height behind him.

Buck gives them a smile as greeting. "Mama." Isabel shouts rushing forward. Buck instantly picks her up into his arms. Damian clings to Eddie, eyes on the man.

"Tommy." Hen says shocked. Buck blinks then looks over.

"Oh, you're that Tommy." Buck grins. Tommy blushing a bit.

"I'm guessing they told you about me." Tommy gives a small frown at that. Knowing what was said.

"Yeah, I did take your spot. If it's helpful, I wouldn't have been able to tell." Buck says with a kind smile. Tommy smiles back.

"What are you here for?" Chim wonders.

"I'm here for Evan." Tommy says motioning at Buck who blinks surprised. Isabel staring at the man.

"Me?" Buck wonders eyes wide.

"Yeah. I heard you were in town. I thought maybe you'd like to join my firehouse. We have a spot opened." Tommy faces Buck, with a smile and kind eyes.

"But... I'm not staying long." Buck tells him.

"That's fine. We just need someone to hold the spot until we can find a replacement." Tommy waves it off.

"How long would it be?" Buck tilts his head.

"I don't know a month or two. It could be less." Tommy shrugs.

"Can I think about it?" Buck wonders.

"Sure. But I need an answer by the end of the week." Tommy says.

"I will think about it then. But can I asks why me?" Buck asks shyly.

"Because you're a good firefighter from what I heard. Everyone has. Plus one of my buddies saw you in action. SEALs right?" Tommy wonders. Buck nods but looks at him suspiciously. "I'm still friends with my old buddies during my military time."

"Oh. Yeah I have SEALs training but I never went on a mission." Buck tells him to make sure he has a clear understanding.

"You still have the training right?" Tommy wonders. Buck nods. "Can I ask what other training you have?"

"Um... everything. I wasn't sure what sort of missions I should focus on. I was going to be put  on a secret team." Buck answers casually but Eddie chokes on air while Tommy goes rigid. Both set of eyes wide.

"I guess that explains why you are very proficient with the dangerous stuff." Tommy says no less shocked.

"Gotta keep calm under pressure." Buck says with a strained smile. "Focus on the goal." Buck says absently, eyes almost unseeing. Tommy decides to change the topic.

"Can I ask..." Tommy starts looking down at Isabel who has rested her head on Buck shoulder. "Are they...?" Taking in her features. He doesn't see himself but he does see Buck.

"No! They aren't yours." Buck shakes his head.

"Really?" Tommy looks up to Buck eyes. Buck smiles at his skeptical face.

"Yes. They aren't. When we got together, by the timeline, I was already pregnant." Buck smiles hoping that's enough to convince him.

"Are you sure?" Tommy asks. Buck can see why he doesn't believe it.

"Would you like a DNA test?" Buck asks tilting his head until his cheek rest on top of Isabel's head.

"I know it makes me sound like an asshole but-" Tommy says shifting on his feet.

"Don't worry I get it. Just want to be sure right?" Buck says waving him off. Tommy nods. "Would you like my number? Do you still have it?" Buck asks sliding his phone out.

"I think I do?" Tommy says pulling his own phone out. Buck leaning to get a look. "Is it the same?" Tommy wonders. Curious Isabel looks over, blocking their view.

"Isa." Buck calls her name affectionately. She looks up and in doing so smack Tommy into the face. Buck makes a face. Isabel looks at Tommy as she rub her own head. "I'm sorry about that." Buck says rubbing Isabel head too.

"It's fine. Is this it?" Tommy asks showing off his phone to Buck.

"No. That's my old phone number." Buck says handing his phone to Tommy so he can put his in. He sways with Isabel in his arms. Buck takes his phone back when Tommy hands it to him.

"I better go." Tommy says motioning to everyone who is watching them. Eddie glaring at him. "See you later." Tommy waves at Chim but the man is just staring at them with wide eyes. Hen's jaw is on the floor.

Quickly Buck sends a text to Tommy, hearing his phone ping a second later. "Got it." Tommy says.

"I'll text you." Buck says as Tommy turns to the stairs.

"I look forward to it." Tommy says with a smile back, and if Buck feels his cheeks heat then that's his business. It's silent as Tommy leaves. Buck watching him, disappearing behind the fire engine. Turning back he finds everyone eyes on him.

Damian runs to him. With the stranger gone he's safe. Buck picks him up.

Buck sniffs, frowning. "Something's burning." Buck points out looking at Bobby.

The captain turns around to the stove. "Oh shit." Bobby says.

Buck goes to the table to sit. He sets the twins down before taking the backpack off. He sets it on the table. Buck looks at Eddie. "You going to join?" He asks motioning to the empty seat beside him.

"Wait. Start from the beginning." Hen says joining them at the table, leaning both hands on top. Doesn't think she can sit just yet.

"I'm here to talk to Eddie. The check came in so I want to talk to him about the car." Buck answers taking out two toys for the twins to play with.

"No not that. Tommy. You slept with him?" Hen asks leaning closer. Eddie glare getting deeper. Hands clenching in a fist.

"To be fair I didn't know he was your Tommy. I didn't even recognize the name." Buck says looking at her.

"Fuck that. You slept with Tommy." Hen says again like she can't believe it.

"Yes. We've established that." Buck says unsure what she wants him to say.

"Well, how'd it happen?" Hen wonders.

"We met. We talked. Then had sex." Buck says taking a look to see the twins distracted. The toys being puzzle boxes for kids. He looks back at Hen to see she's not impressed.

"Nothing more?" she raises an eyebrow.

"I don't know what you want to hear. It was just a hook-up." Buck shrugs.

"Just a hook-up?" Hen raises her eyebrow, not believing that for a second. Their interaction seemed like more than just a hook-up.

"Okay, we saw each other a couple times. But it wasn't a relationship, more just friends with benefits. It was a mutual agreement." Buck tells her.

"You hooked up with him while pregnant?" Eddie finally finds his voice, and it's not happy. Buck glares at him.

"Is that judgement?" Buck asks, calming Eddie a bit. Still not happy. "First off, you weren't talking to me. No one was. Second off, I didn't know I was a carrier. Third off, aren't you dating someone. Don't give me shit for this." Buck hisses to Eddie. Eddie looks down, being put in his place.

"Sorry." Eddie says looking away. Buck is right. Honestly he forgot he was even dating someone at the moment. They aren't anything more than co-parents at the moment. It's like getting doused with cold water.

"Then just focus on the task. Your car." Buck says holding out an envelope for Eddie. He takes it, and opening it. It's the check for his car. "Have you found a car you want?" Buck asks.

"Still looking." Eddie says.

"Then, tell me when you do cause I was thinking, depending on the cost I can pay off the rest of it for you."

"You don't need to." Eddie says.

"I want to. I was the reason your car got wrecked."

"Buck, I told you it's not your fault. Plus you've helped me plenty today." Eddie tells him, trying to convey his feelings to Buck. He was out of line earlier. There's no reason for him to get so upset with Buck for seeing someone else. At the time they never put a label to it. Sure they confessed but nothing was said about it. Then the tsunami happened. Then the lawsuit. If they were in a relationship, his actions killed that. He doesn't own Buck.

"Find a car first." Buck says. "I know you've been looking." Buck tells him, amused.

"I have. I think I'd like something like the rental we have now." Eddie says looking away, almost embarrassed. He does like it. It feels like a family car, but it's not a minivan.

"The exact same one? I think they have it in black." Buck says. Eddie just hands his phone over to Buck who unlocks it easily.

"So... are you going to do it?" Chim asks.

"Do what?" Buck says typing in the car for Eddie.

"Take the job?" Chim asks. Eddie and Bobby perk at that.

"Don't know." Buck hands Eddie his phone back. "I have been getting bored, as much as I love the twins, there's only so many times going to park will be exciting. Even for them. Maybe I can find a short daycare for them." Buck says thinking about it, eyes on the twins. "I was reading recently that kids need to be around others their age so maybe that will be good for them. They need to be social."

"More than they already are?" Hen asks with a smile, knowing those two are social butterflies. Buck smiles back.

"Mamá, aquí." (Mama, here.) Isabel hands over the puzzle box. Most of it undone. Damian hands his over as well. Buck knowing they caught a snag in the puzzle. Buck reaches into the backpack for another toy. Cars. Two of them. He hands the blue one to Isa and the green one to Damian.

"Juega donde pueda ver." (Play where I can see.) Buck tells them. They both smile jumping off the chair. They don't go too far. Buck watches for a while, seeing they are okay Buck looks back at Hen. "The one I'm worried about is Damian." Buck tells her getting back on topic.

"Why?" Hen asks sitting down.

"Sure he's social, but that's if someone is with him. He trust me, Isa, Chris and Eddie. Unless one of us is there with him he doesn't go near them, and that is if he wants." Buck says reaching over to put Isabel's puzzle together again. "I know there are times where he doesn't leave my side. I've seen him even ignore others even though Isa is there with him." Buck moves to Damian puzzle. "I don't mind if he's like that but I just want to make sure he knows how to be social. So that he has the tools to socialize in the future." Buck then puts both boxes in the backpack.

"Do you know if Chris was ever like that?" Hen looks at Eddie who is staring at his phone but listening. Eddie takes a look at her for a second.

"No. He was social and independent since I can remember." Eddie says not mentioning that the only person he gets childlike around is Buck. He knows that's because he trust Buck the most. Not like Chris doesn't trust his own dad but there's a connection between Buck and Chris that transcends his own. He doesn't mind. "I think Damian might be like me. I wasn't all that social until my younger sisters were born. Then I hit ten and my dad goes on about being the man of the house." Eddie rolls his eyes at that. Knowing it's all bullshit. Because of that he can't do much like cook, he can do basic cleaning but he knows Buck does them better. "It forced me out of my bubble. I had to." Eddie says with a shrug.

"I can see that. Even now you aren't sociable." Hen says. Eddie just shrugs, he taps on Buck elbow handing over his phone.

"I don't think there's anything wrong if Damian doesn't want to talk to anyone but I'd rather he not feel embarrassed or like there's something wrong with himself if something were to happen later down the line." Buck explains.

"I mean it's smart." Hen says, Buck smiles at her.

"Thanks." Buck does something on Eddie's phone.

"Smarty pants." Eddie teases, kicking his boots against Buck's shoes.

"More of a smarty pants than you." Buck teases back.

"Then maybe you can tells me why I can't rest my feet against the coffee table." Eddie teases, a growing smirk on his face. Buck pauses, looking at Eddie with eyes slightly wide.

"Because the rug is the wrong way." Buck answers, looking at Eddie confused. Eddie sits up, now it's his turn to be shocked.

"What?" Eddie asks.

"What do you mean Eddie?" Hen wonders.

"I did some deep cleaning last year, and ever since I can't prop my feet up on the coffee table while I sit on the couch like I use to. It's been bothering me but I don't know what's wrong so I've sort of been ignoring it." Eddie shrugs, but his eyes are on Buck.

"I thought you were trying to be new? Try something different so I didn't mention it. Plus my legs reach the coffee table no problem." Buck shrugs handing the phone back.

"How do you know?" Chim asks.

"I was bored, I noticed that the rug is off. The design in the middle leans closer to one side." Buck says casually.

"Then how to you know the rug is the wrong way?" Hen asks.

"When Chris and Eddie got sick that one time, they threw up on the rug. I cleaned it, that's how I noticed something was wrong. Well, I cleaned as best I can but the small tassels on the side are frayed and messy compared to the rest of the rug." Buck says. The three just sit and stare. "Oh and did you know the bathroom door is slightly smaller than the other doors." Buck smiles.

"I did not." Eddie says insure how to feel about this. He hardly remembers a time since coming to LA where Buck wasn't involved in his life. In Chris' life.

"Buck, you and twins staying to eat?" Bobby wonders.

"We can leave if you want." Buck says. Bobby shakes his head.

"It's okay, you can join us." Bobby smiles at him Buck nods. Then Buck perks remembering something he looks to Eddie.

"Oh, I was going to asks, are you on shift the end of the month?" Buck wonders seriously.

"I don't think so why?" Eddie asks eyes on Buck. Buck takes a quick look at the twins to see them happily playing.

Buck leans in closer. "The twins birthday is then and I was going to plan a surprise party." Buck whispers. Eddie sits up, phone forgotten.

"Really." Eddie asks wide. It's a given he missed their first birthday.

"When exactly is it?" Hen wonders leaning closer.

"May 31st. We had everything planned back in Peru, lucky nothing was bought just yet. Anyway, I talked to them and they said to just celebrate here instead. I have to be on the look out for the twins gifts." Buck says with a smile on his face, his eyes sad about who will be missing the day.

"Is there a theme?" Hen wonders.

"I was thinking Disney. Chris has been watching those with them." Buck smiles.

"Food?" Buck grimaces at that.

"I was going to cook some Peruvian dishes I know but abuela got offended and saying she should do the cooking. It was a whole thing." Buck waves off, Eddie just staring at Buck, to think he got into it with his grandmother. "So that's on pause for now."

"Cake?" Hen wonders.

"I was going to do two mini cakes. Like I did last year." Buck answers.

"What did you do last year?" Eddie questions focus on his phone again.

"It wasn't much a party as it was a gathering. Just us and a few of my coworkers. I got two small cakes, one for each twin. They didn't understand what to do, but it was cute. I think they enjoyed the cake." Buck looks down a bit upset.

"What's wrong?" Hen asks worried.

"No it's just abuela, Esper, wanted to bake the cake for the twins birthday this year but seeing as she can't..." Buck lets out a sad sigh.

"Do you have an idea for the theme of the cake?" Hen wonders.

"I know Damian has been into the Cars franchise. So I was thinking Lightening McQueen. For Isa... I was planning to do a Disney princess but she doesn't seem to care about them."

"I know she likes the older movies." Eddie says. Buck nods.

"Yea but I can't decide which one, Aristocats or Lady And The Tramp?"

"Aristocats. She like that one cat, Marie? Maria? The white kitten." Eddie says.

"Oh. That's perfect." Buck says with a smile.

"So where is it going to be?" Chim wonders.

"Abuela wanted it to be at hers but I was thinking we'd just do it at Eddie's?" Buck says.

"I don't mind, but abuela's backyard is bigger." Eddie points out

"True, she also has a molcajete." Buck says, Eddie frowns at him.

"¡Mamá! ¡La bruja! ¡Bruja! ¡Me comió!" (Mama! The witch! Witch! She eat me!) Isabel shouts running to Buck, throwing herself at him. He picks her up but is looking just as confused at Eddie is. The others are clueless.

Then Damian comes running with a whine. Buck takes him in his arms as well.

Buck looks over to see their toy cars abandoned near the railing. Slowly Ana shows herself. Frown on her face, obviously hearing the twins.

"I am really sorry that happened." Ana says though Buck doesn't really care. He gives a deadpan look towards her, the twins holding him tightly, their tiny hands balling his shirt into their fist.

"What are you doing here?" Eddie wonders standing up.

"I thought it'd be good to spend some time with you." Ana attempts to give a smile but she steps closer and Damian whines.

"I don't think now is a good time." Eddie says cringing.

"I can see that." Ana says looking at the twins trying to fuse with Buck, the man staring at her. Watching if she's a threat, it's not a good look. Rather it's scary.

"Let's talk downstairs." Eddie says leading her back down.

Buck soothes the twins.

"Chim, Hen set the table." Bobby orders.

"Food?" Isabel looks at Buck. He gives her a nod.

"Comida. ¿Quieres un poco?" (Food. Want some?) Buck asks, was going to make her a plate anyway.

Isabel nods. "Mucha hambre." (Very hungry.)

"Yo también." (Me too.) Damian says, face still tucked away into Buck shoulder.

"Ambos van a tener que sentarse." (You both are going to have to sit.) Buck tells them. But they don't move. Bobby smiles as he sees the twins still holding onto him so he gets their plates. Buck nods his thank you.

Once Eddie comes back his face is neutral but Buck could tell something happened by the way the corner of his lips are tugging down. And there's a very barely noticeable crease in between his eyebrows. Buck doesn't ask about it. Buck doesn't bring it up. Just lets Eddie sit next to him. He also doesn't plan on asking.

It's not his place. He's nothing more than an old friend Eddie now shares kids with.

Does Buck miss when they were best friends? Yes. Of course he does.

But Buck doesn't know if he can handle them being just friends. So he's put a wall up.

Eddie walks back up the loft, after going with Buck and the twins to say goodbye. The car situation is taken care of. And by the time Buck picks him up tomorrow evening he should be in it.

At the top he finds Hen glaring at Chim. Eddie looks over to see Bobby frowning as well. "What-?" Eddie starts to asks but doesn't continue. Does it really have anything to do with him?

Hen looks at him then back at Chim. "Say that again, but to his face." Hen demands pointing at Eddie. Eddie raises an eyebrow at him. So maybe it does have something to do with him. Chim looks pale, eye going from Eddie to Hen.

"It's nothing bad. Maddie just wanted a picture. She's curious about the twins." Chim explains. Eddie glares.

"You took pictures of my kids?" Eddie asks back.

"When you say it like that-"

"But that's what you did. Buck and Eddie are their parents. They didn't give you consent to take pictures of their kids and send them off to someone." Hen glares.

"How'd you like it if I took pictures of Jee?" Eddie asks, crossing his arms. Chim frowns at that.

"Okay. I see what's wrong but I didn't think it would be a big deal." Chim says.

"Why wouldn't it? When has it ever been okay to take pictures of other people's kids. You and Maddie need to learn to stay in your lane." Hen says.

"She's curious?" Chim shrugs.

"And you don't think Buck wants to meet his niece?" Eddie asks back. "Of course he does but he knows it's wrong to ask people for pictures, or stalk them." Eddie takes a menacing step towards him.

"Stalk?" Chim wonders eyes wide.

"It was your car wasn't it? Parked outside of my house?" Eddie says.

"I wasn't-" Chim shakes his head.

"Really because I stepped outside and it drove off. Our neighbor got the license plate for suspicious behavior. Talked to Buck and I about it because they were worried, having seen the car park in front of my house multiple times." Eddie glares. The realization on it being Maddie hits them all. But it hits Chim the hardest.

"Chim, you need to stop feeding into Maddie's wants. I would suggest a couple therapist." Bobby suggest firmly. Not as a friend, but as a boss. Almost a father.

"Maddie's going to get in trouble. I told our neighbor to call the cops the next time they see it." Eddie says.

At his those words Chim nods. "Delete the pictures." Hen warns handing the phone back. They watch as Chim deletes the pictures of the twins smiling. As cute as they are it's weird.

Chim has something more serious to think about.

Chapter Text

Eddie closes the door. As soft as he can. Not wanting to wake anyone up.

He sets his duffel back down, taking his shoes off. As he walks forward he stretches. It's been a day, a shift. He's happy to be home, to decompress.

Chim said he got them a therapist, immediately, and had their first session. He said it wasn't good, not because of the therapist but Maddie. She wasn't happy about being there and she wasn't talkative. Not happy about being there and not compromising. But Chim felt better having talked about her leaving, feeling frustrated and telling their therapist what happened with Buck and taking pictures of the twins. Hearing that got her to react. Of course she got defensive at first. Chim said they had gone back and forth. Maddie feeling like Chim was blaming her. But he wasn't. He was following her, without thinking for himself. He just wanted her to be happy, to feel better.

It all comes back to her leaving. Running away.

Chim didn't want that to happen so he's been doing whatever she wants. Focusing on her. Following her. Still not blaming her for leaving her family behind. And Chim understands why she left, PPD isn't something to laugh at. He understands it's serious but she still left.

It was suggested they separate, live separately. Chim has been too focused on Maddie and her leaving that he forgot himself. Chim decided to leave, go with Albert. Jee going with him because he has primary custody at this point. And Maddie didn't trust herself. Not fully yet, not to be alone with Jee. Even if things have been going well.

For now they will see how things go.

Hearing that helped Eddie and Hen be around him. The shift was crazy, but easier now that he isn't so cold with Chim. Eddie still holds him away but it's not bad like it was. They can see Chim has changed as well. Being himself once again. Almost like it was before. Of course they know it hurts him, the scars are still there. Hope that things will get better is there though.

Eddie pauses at the sight that greats him. Buck on the kitchen table, papers and computer open on top. It's not that that has Eddie stopping in his tracks, it's the large square thick framed glasses on the other's face. Since when does Buck wear glasses? And why does he look hot? For Buck it's so easy to look good. And he looks good in everything.

"What are you wearing?" Eddie asks almost high pitched. His heart is going to jump out his chest. Wrong choice, as Buck stops looking at the computer to look at Eddie. Eddie now getting a full view of Buck in glasses. It's better like this.

"What?" Buck sounds confused, looking down at his sweater and sweats with his fuzzy socks. Something he's worn before.

"The glasses." Eddie says getting closer in a trance. Buck nods in understanding. He turns back to the screen.

"It's for my eyes, so they don't strain. Your plate is in the microwave." Buck says typing something. Eddie goes into the kitchen to get his plate. Needing something to do. To distract himself.

"Are you doing some work?" Eddie wonders opening the microwave. To see what was for dinner. Eddie smiles at the baked chicken Alfredo. He closes it to heat his plate up. Excited, knowing it's going to be good.

"Was. I finished. Now I'm just checking out daycares." Buck answers. Eddie can hear him typing.

"Are you planning on taking Tommy's offer?" Eddie steps into view. Leaning on the wall. Watching the other. That being the only reason to why Buck is looking at daycares.

"Yeah. It's weird living in someone else's house while not doing much." Buck answers focus on the screen.

"Buck I told you-" Eddie starts, Buck snaps his head to face Eddie has him stopping. Frowning behind his glasses.

"Eddie, I know. You don't mind but I do. For you you're helping an old friend, to me it's like charity. I don't want to feel like that." Buck voice is firm. The microwave beeping behind Eddie. He ignores that for a second. Putting himself in Buck shoes. If he was Buck, he would have been job searching day one. Of course Buck was making sure the twins were okay first.

"Okay. I can see where you're coming from." Eddie says. Buck relaxes. Giving Eddie a nod. The older of the two turns around. Getting his plate. Eddie comes back, sitting across from Buck. "Are... you doing the DNA test with Tommy?" Eddie wonders. If they are going to work together it's best to have everything on the table.

"Yup. We already set a date." Buck pauses looking at Eddie. "Would you like to do one too?" Buck asks, eyes on Eddie. Who sat paused, the fork hovering near his mouth. Eddie eyes go to him.

"No, I trust your word." Eddie says instantly. He truly does. Knowing Buck wouldn't lie. If he was unsure Buck would have found out. Eddie focus on diner.

"Okay."

"So daycare?" Eddie points out, just wants to hear his voice.

"I talked to Carla about it. She gave some recommendations I'm just going over them." Buck frowns, leaning forward.

"And?" Eddie raises an eyebrow at him.

"I want something good and secure, but affordable. Daycare is expensive though." Buck says moving forward, face getting closer.

"How expensive?" Eddie wonders.

"Really. Almost 2,ooo for one kid. That was like my rent for the loft. They aren't going to attend long." Buck says. "You know I think I'd have better luck starting my own daycare." Buck grumbles. Eddie snorts.

"So, going to ask Carla for more help?" Eddie stares at Buck. As the days pass he's able to read Buck like once before. Not fully. Buck still has things he hides and Eddie can't read. Eddie doesn't like it.

"Yup." Buck pops the P.

Eddie enjoys his dinner listening to Buck rant about these prices. When he's done he cleans his dish. Then going to take a shower and get ready for bed.

After his shower he finds the kitchen empty. Buck and the twins room mostly closed. Just slightly ajar. For Chris. He's not as decompressed as he would like. Still, he's good.

"It still upsets me he did that." Karen says looking upset. Hen and Buck look at each other.

"Eddie said he's seeing a couple therapist with her." Buck says focusing on his breakfast sandwich and orange juice.

"I'm glad. He's lost himself." Karen grumbles.

"And now he's got help. Both of them." Hen says to her wife. "Is there a point where you'll talk to Maddie again?" Hen turns to Buck.

Buck tilts his head to think and chew. He looks at Hen, eyes straight into her, he shakes his head. "I know she's not going to be accountable. Just more bullshit about they were mourning or to forgive them." Buck waves his hand, rolling his eyes.

"Mourning isn't an excuse." Karen frowns.

"Buck they emotionally abused you. It's not okay." Hen tells Buck seriously.

"I know. I'm aware. I've been seeing Dr. Copeland. For the twins too. I know what they did is wrong. It's why I don't want anything to do with my parents or Maddie. I haven't seen or talked to them since I left at eighteen anyways." Buck tells them. Hen reaching over to place her hand on top of his.

"You're strong Buck." Karen tells him, with her tone Buck believes her. So he gives her a smile.

"Thank you. I'm not sure about Chim though." Buck says squeezing her hand back.

"And you have a right to be." Hen says.

"For now I'm letting it be. I'm not staying long after all." Buck says, reminding himself also. He's loved being back. Being with his family. His place isn't here anymore. But it's been nice.

"And any news on your house?" Hen pulls her hand back. Reaching for her water.

"Nothing yet. I did hear that the water is receding." Buck grabs his own juice.

"That's good." Karen says.

"Yea, reconstruction has started for the areas that are dry. I'm just waiting for news at this point." Buck hopes it doesn't take too long. He feels like he's getting too comfortable here.

"Right I hear the twins birthday is getting close. Are you inviting everyone?" Karen asks excited, a smile on her face.

"Of course. I'll send you both the text." Buck beams at them excited himself.

"I don't feel sorry for Eddie. He's going to be around clipboard Buck." Hen teases with a smirk. Buck gives a smile and chuckle.

"I just want to give the twins what I didn't have." Buck tells them. Head down to look at his lap

"That's amazing." Karen says. Hen nodding her head. Both knowing Buck doesn't celebrate his own birthday.

"Thank you." Buck gives them a smile.

A phone alarm goes off. Hen sitting up knowing it's hers. "I better head to work." Hen gets up, moving to gather her things in her room. Buck finishes his sandwich. Hen walking out. Giving her wife a kiss goodbye. Giving Buck a hug because she doesn't know when she will see him again. Saying goodbye to the twins playing in the living room.

When the door is closed Buck and Karen move gathering the dishes and walking to the kitchen. Cleaning up their brunch. Buck is doing the dishes as Karen puts them away. Karen speaks first.

"So I heard you and Tommy." Karen grins. Buck smiles shaking his head. Not surprised.

"Okay not my finest moment. But like I told Hen I didn't know it was him. Plus Chim still talks to him." Buck points out

"I'm not judging I'm just curious. You and Eddie were in a relationship right?" Karen wonder taking a look at Buck. Focusing on his task of washing the dishes.

"We didn't talk about it but I thought we were." Buck shrugs. Trying to be nonchalant about it but the memory of it is a scar.

"Hen said he was a hook up right? With Tommy." Karen voice is careful and soft. Trying very hard not to offend Buck.

"Yeah. I was honest that I wasn't looking for more. Tommy accepted that. He also listened to me and since I had no one else, it felt good." Buck takes a breath at the memory.

"Can I ask about it? About that time." Karen takes a moment to watch Buck. The man wears his heart on his sleeves. She'll be able to read if she goes too far.

"I don't mind." Buck looks her in the eye, showing her he means it.

"Was Eddie not there?"

"No. I don't know if you know about the street fighting," Buck sees Karen nod her head, "he was doing that, and not letting me see Chris. No matter how much I asked." Buck turns away, head down at the sad memory.

"I can't imagine." Karen frowns. No secret the boy is Bucks in every way but blood. She can't imagine Hen not letting her see Denny.

"It is what it is but it hurt at the time. He didn't like talking to me, or being around me. He was very hostile."

"So was everyone else right?"

"Yeah. Hen seem to be okay with me. She got me a cupcake." Buck smiles at the memory, but the smiles fade a second later. "No one else was happy about me being there. Athena talked to me if we were on a scene together but nothing else."

"I've been curious, do you still love Eddie?"

"I'm..." Buck tilts his head. Unsure if he should be one hundred percent honest with her. "I don't think so." It's a lie. He still loves Eddie, he's just not doing anything about it. Making sure he stays behind his wall. He doesn't want to cross boundaries. "I knew Eddie was going to be my last. Just not in this way." Buck doesn't look up, focus on his task in hand. Buck never thought he'd love someone like Eddie. He was hurt when Ali broke up with him but it was also freeing. He couldn't continue being in a relationship he knew wouldn't last. The truck bombing was an eye opener. It's why he put Chris into his will.

It's a bit hypocritical to be upset that Eddie is dating but there was a small part that hoped Eddie hadn't moved on. Buck may be able to sleep with someone but his heart is with Eddie. Buck isn't upset about it. Their short lived relationship was amazing while it lasted. He felt loved. Felt like he belonged. He found home.

Now the voices saying 'he will never be loved, he's not meant to belong, he should be alone,' echo in his head. Of course he is seeing Dr. Copeland about it.

It is not easy though.

He didn't want to stay with Eddie but he wanted to be around Chris as much as he wants. The thought was selfish but he also wanted the twins to be around their dad. Though it's hard to move on. How can he when he sees Eddie playing with the twins. Kissing them good night. Smiling when they run towards him. Hugging them tightly after a rough shift. Everything reminds Buck about what made him fall in love with Eddie in the first place. Buck felt like he is falling in love again. Distance did in fact make the heart grow fonder. On one side.

I don't have loving qualities.

A phone ring brings Buck back. He pulls out his phone to see it's time, he should head to the clinic. "I have to go." He tells Karen. She looks at him sad but she doesn't say anything, which he's grateful for.

Eddie holds the twin in his arms, Damian looking upset. Eddie understanding the feeling. Buck is currently in his room getting dressed. A date.

Well, Buck never said it was one. Just said he's going to meet some one. Late. For dinner. Buck having cooked early for them. Buck never said it was a date but he took a shower. He's getting dressed.

Buck walks out the room dressed in a plain pink polo and jeans. Okay, so it's nothing fancy. But maybe it's a casual date. Which isn't better because Buck looks good all the time.

"Mama!" Damian cries. Buck turns to him.

"¿Qué ocurre?" (What's wrong?) Buck asks softly. Getting closer to him, Damian raises his arms, Buck takes him out of Eddie's arms. Buck holds him close. Swaying as he rubs Damian's back. Isabel running out of Chris room with him on her tail.

"¡Te vas!" (You leaving!) Damian cries. Buck smiles.

"Voy a volver." (I'm coming back.) Buck says.

"¿Promesa?" (Promise?) Isabel asks, eyes tearing up as well. Buck takes a breath. He knows this is a first for them.

"Promesa." (Promise.) Buck holds his pinky out for Isa then Damian. Then he places a kiss on Damian forehead, after he places Damian back on Eddie lap.

Eddie takes him. But his head is following Buck movement. Following Buck as he moves around, gathering his wallet and shoes. Once he's got those Buck looks around.

"Where...?" Buck looks around. "Oh." Buck reaches over to an envelope on the dresser by the door. There are two envelopes. Buck pockets one. "Here." Buck hands the white envelope to Eddie. He takes it curiously. Seeing the clinic name Eddie turns to Buck, it clicking.

"You... but I said no." Eddie stares at Buck.

"I know but I didn't want there to be a hint of doubt." Buck smiles.

"You've... seen it?" Eddie asks slowly. Eyes on Buck.

"Yeah. It didn't tell me anything I didn't know already." Buck smiles. Buck takes his phone out texting someone. His date.

Wait. Buck pocket the other envelope. There's only one reason for that. "You're seeing Tommy." Eddie points out, a heavy weight setting in his gut.

"Yeah. He just got off his shift. I want to give his envelope." Buck says pocketing his phone.

"Going on a date with Tommy." Eddie says mind far away.

"It's not a date." Buck says with a shake of his head.

"It sounds like one. When will you be... back?" Eddie says keeping his tone neutral. Face natural. Not showing the storm brewing within him.

"Don't know." Buck says. He moves over to kiss the twins goodbye. Hugging Chris. His phone pings, Buck takes it out. Buck looks at them. With a large smile. "I'll be back." Buck says. The twins look sad, giving sad waves goodbye. Eyes watery. Chris is just staring. Buck close the door behind him. Not long after they hear a car drive away.

Chris lets out a sigh. "I miss when it was after the tsunami." Chris mutters under his breath slumping on the couch with his arms crossed.

"What do you mean?" Eddie says comforting a very sad Damian.

"After the tsunami Buck was here all the time, we were all happy. Now there's Mrs. Flores," Chris says her name will an eye-roll and disgust, "Bucky isn't going to stay." Chris frowns sadly.

Eddie doesn't have much to say. Those days were great. And he was happy. They all were, even if they had nightmares.

Is he happy now?

Yes. Because Buck is here.

Will he be after later, when Buck takes the twins back to Peru?

He gets dinner for them all. Though, none of the kids are happy with Buck absence. Eddie can't say he is either. Eddie knows what Buck will most likely do. It's not a date but a hook up. That doesn't make Eddie feel better. But why should he feel better? He's dating Ana. Buck is single. He's got no commitments.

To help the kids feel better, and to distract himself he lets the kids watch two movies.

After putting them to bed he gets ready himself.

He doesn't sleep. He waits, ears straining for the door.

Waiting.

And waiting.

Eddie shuffles down the hallway. Eyes almost glued closed. He smells something good. He snaps his eyes open. Quickly he makes his way to the kitchen. Hope dies instantly. Carla stood making breakfast.

"Good morning. Where is your other half?" she asks with a smile. He shuffles into the kitchen for his coffee. Eddie doesn't hide his displeasure.

"He went out." Eddie growls out. Carla turns around to look at him.

"On a date?" The women asks with visible surprise

"He insisted not a date but he went out for dinner... and more. I don't know if he's home." Eddie grumbles out.

"Good for Buckaroo." Carla says smiling. Eddie looks at her, giving her a glare.

"What?" he asks betrayed. Carla rolls her eyes.

"Buck is a grown man, an adult, he could do what he wants even if that means getting some for one night." Carla answers. "Why are you mad about it?" Carla wonders. Eddie looks back, getting his coffee. "Eddie, I know I told you once. But now I have to ask, whose heart are you following? Yours, Christopher's, or your parents? I think you need to think about that." Carla suggest. Eddie just stands there.

What does his heart want?

The door opens. Buck walking in. "Good morning." Carla smiles turning Buck. Eddie frowns more. Buck's face... it's the 'I got thoroughly fucked' face. Eddie has seen it. Buck's hair is wild. He's got a smile on his face. A satisfied smirk on his face. His eyes glowing.

"Morning." Buck rasps a bit. Carla eyes go wide.

"You had a fun night." Carla giggles, Buck ducking his head blushing.

"I did." Buck agrees. Then he turns away to Eddie. "The twins."

"Sad but got two movies out of it." Eddie says looking away.

"Was this the first time you left them for a date?" Carla wonders. Knowing breaking routine for kids get them upset.

"Not a date," Buck reminds the room though he knows Carla doesn't know, "but yes and no." Carla and Eddie look confused.

"What do you mean?" Carla asks. Buck looks at Eddie then away.

"In Peru. I would go out as well, for a fun night, but I left right after shift and came home after I was done. I would talk to Esperanza, their babysitter, about it and she would usually tell them I am working late. Which isn't odd. So I never left them, for time myself. They always thought I was working." Buck explains. Eddie wanted to rage, he's holding his cup so hard he is stunned it hasn't shattered.

"You should do that more often. You shouldn't hide that from the twins." Carla says.

"I know but it was easier before." Buck says with a shrug.

Once again, Eddie knows he shouldn't be feeling like this.

Eddie knows he should talk to Ana.

He hasn't seen her much, even before Buck came, they talk but it's not right. It's easy with her but not in the way it was- is easy with Buck. He doesn't feel comfortable with her. Not like he should be. There's still a small part of him that feels like he has to perform. But for who? And why?

Obviously not Chris. He knows Chris doesn't like her much. He doesn't outright hate her but Chris isn't her biggest fan.

What about his parents? Is he doing this for them? Maybe. He's always wanted their approval. Always wanted them to be proud of him. Smile. Being told good job.

Is he happy?

Does he love Ana?

Buck opens his closet, hand around his towel. He'd come back from seeing the captain of 217. Even taking a walk around. He's sort of excited about it. It's mostly search and rescue. Which he doesn't mind. He enjoys trying new things. He spent long walking around and talking to the captain he would most likely be working under. Tommy's.

They will be able to work with each other. Of course they talked. Again. Buck still doesn't want to go into a relationship. It wouldn't be right. Plus Tommy has said he doesn't want kids. So he is not going to want to start a relationship with someone who has kid. Buck was very smug about the results. He knew Tommy wasn't the father. Still funny to see him be so scared as he open the envelope. Tommy was relieved he wasn't the father.

The sex is good. But it's not like Buck has bad sex. Not since he was a teen new to sex.

Buck agreed that if he got the job they will keep it professional. Buck doesn't want a repeat of Buck 1.0. After work is a different story.

So now he's buzzing in his skin. Hoping he's got the job. Carla helped him find a good daycare and affordable one. So they've been going. It has been a struggle with Damian. Isa is okay. So he hopes he's got the job. He'd like to be doing something. He doesn't mind being a stay at home mom but it's not his thing. He feels like it went well.

But he can understand the captain not wanting to hire him only for him to leave soon.

Buck shakes his head. Getting out of his head. All he can do is wait.

Buck reaches for a button up. A long sleeved white shirt with thin vertical stripes. He buttons the shirt up. He's in a very good mood. He saw Eddie and Carla huddle around the computer. They look very serious.

Buck walks out the room to see them still close together, but Eddie is standing leaning one hand onto the table. The other pointing to the screen. Buck knows that as his serious stance. When he's serious Eddie can't sit.

Buck gets closer. "What's going on?" Buck wonders.

The two look at him, both serious.

"How was it?" Carla asks kindly and polite, but Buck knows her real focus is what ever they were doing.

"I think it went well." Buck smiles, but it falls. "I'm just waiting for a call back. What are you both doing?" Blue eyes looking over them both trying to piece it together.

"It's about a call. Charlie." Eddie answers not looking up.

"I remember you talking about it. What's wrong?" Buck steps closer.

"His mom has been poisoning him." Eddie stares, frown on his face.

"What? How?" Buck blinks looking at Eddie then Carla for answers. A frown on his face.

"Eyedrops. There were so many of them." Eddie answers straightening up.

"She has so many Go Fund Me's." Carla says turning the computer to show Buck. Clicking through them.

"She's using him." Eddie says sounding both frustrated and desperate to help the kid. Buck understands.

"Okay so what's the plan? Have you called Athena?" Buck asks looking away from the computer.

"We haven't thought that far." Eddie admits.

"We just found this." Carla tells the taller man.

Buck nods. "Okay, so we'll call Athena and see what will happen."

"Will something happen?" Eddie says. Buck blinks shocked.

"What do you mean?" Buck frowns in his confusion.

"Buck, I know Athena is a good cop but what can she do? The mom does what she can to make sure he's hidden from everyone. She's covered her tracks. What can Athena do?" Eddie challenges.

"What can you?" Buck asks back, Eddie flinching back like he's been struck. "What's your plan? Kidnap him? Force him to the hospital? The police station? What then?" Buck wonders watching Eddie look away to think. They all know he's right. "You need to contact Athena. Give her all this and see what you can do." Buck says softly.

"Okay. I'm just worried." Eddie says.

"I know Eds. It's very sweet of you but if you do something wrong, like illegally, she can get away with it." Buck says.

"I know." Eddie nods taking a deep breath. He takes his phone out about to call the sergeant. But as he moves to her contact, his screen pauses. His phone showing a number he doesn't know. Curious he answers it. "Hello?" he answers.

Carla and Buck watch him. Eyes on him as his posture straightens. Eddie eyes grow wide. Eddie then snaps his head to them.

"Charlie?" Eddie calls him. "Wait slow down, what happened?" Buck steps closer to hear. "Okay just hold on." Eddie promises ending the call.

"I'm going with you." Buck says. Eddie sees the seriousness in his eyes. Eddie nods.

Together they rush to the car. Carla saying she's got the kids.

Buck takes the passenger seat as Eddie drives. Buck inching to comfort Eddie. But he's not sure how. Should he reach over? Would that be crossing a line? He's unsure.

He should focus on helping Charlie.