cool again

finneas caspar austen. phd student. future therapist.

[finnausten]

jacexlopez​:

“I think we could definitely need some of that rain here, yeah, but you know, fires are kinda what helps me bring home the bread and butter!” Jace shrugged one shoulder as he made a point, the LAFD shirt he was wearing damped in sweat sticking to his back to prove it. “You get used to it. Then again, I’m from Texas so what do I know!” He never knew a different weather, and he didn’t really know if he could get used to anything much colder. He needed winter jackets when the temperature dropped from the mid 70s as it is. “Just think about it, I guess. LA market is ridiculous and I have a room if you don’t get something before your cousin has to move out. I’m not home much anyway.” Jace’s work schedule was already unique, and he took a lot of overtime just because he really didn’t have much else to kill the time. Then there was West’s custody situation. He only got to have the kid nights and two days in total a month. “West won’t mind. And he can crash with me when he’s over until you find your place.” Jace didn’t foresee it being too long but his door was open. He liked Finn. He trusted him despite their rocky beginnings at the station. He steps away from the punching bag with a snort, rolling his eyes playfully at Finn’s little jab at him. “Tired? I want to see you do something for a change, come on. Let’s break a sweat, Austen.” 

"True.” Finn snorts, reaching up to brush his damp curls out of his face. Before meeting Jace, he pretty sure he had never worked out this hard in his life. Not that he wasn’t in shape, because he was, but these workouts were definitely kicking his ass a bit. “I will. And thank you for offering. I really do appreciate it.” Jace offering his home to him meant a lot. He knew it was a place he shared with West, and Finn didn’t want to get in the way of that in any way. He would be perfectly happy sleeping on the firefighter’s couch. He had certainly slept in more uncomfortable places. “Please. I wouldn’t want to kick West out of his own room. I could always take the couch when it’s his weekends.” Finn suggests as he moves to switch places with Jace, shrugging lightly. “Alright, alright. But I’m definitely complaining to you tomorrow when I can’t feel my arms. Just giving you some fair warning.” He says teasingly, swinging at the punching bag once Jace is in position. “Also I’m definitely going to require a smoothie or something when we’re done. I don’t think I’ve ever sweat this much in my life.”

[finnausten]

jacexlopez​:

The jabs come rhythmically, unfazed by the distraction. It was a routine exercise and an activity they both were getting more and more used to, having conversations at the punching bag. “What, you don’t want to be the third wheel?” Jace joked, tilting his head in understanding before the next blow, letting out a breathy laugh. “Yeah, that’s prime location. I couldn’t afford that place even if I had three jobs. The view seems nice, though, but definitely not worth killing myself to pay rent.” Being a firefighter provided a steady income but definitely not enough to allow himself such luxuries. And even if he didn’t have to pay child support, he still had a child he was semi responsible for. Extracurriculars often came out of his pocket, as did most of the clothing and other needs for school because he was still somehow the main contact for West’s teachers. He didn’t mind it. Holding the punching bag still with both gloves as he tries to catch his breath. “Because you get anything other than rain season in England?” He smirks, shrugging as he looks back at his friend. “When do you have to move out, then? I mean, we can ask around. Craigslist is pretty okay, too, if all you’re looking for is a room in the meantime. Sure, you can end up rooming with a serial killer…” He was kidding, of course, but not entirely. “I’m sure your cousin won’t just leave you on the street but, if you need, I have an extra room you can crash in until you figure it out. West comes over for a weekend every other week, though, and might want to claim it back for those few days, and I’m barely home, really, work… and you’ll find something soon. It’s just better to take the time to look than desperately sign up for a bad lease so just think about it.” He wiped some sweat off his forehead with his forearm, hands being tied in the gloves, and shrugged. “You want to give this a go or are you giving up?” 

"I definitely do not. I love Nick and Duncan, but I don’t want to be their roommate.” Finn chuckles, shaking his head. He definitely didn’t want to be in their way, especially not now. Their relationship was still new and Finn didn’t want to put a damper on their honeymoon phase. “I happen to quite like the rain. Maybe if California got a little more, there wouldn’t be so many fires! Honestly, it’s too warm here. I thought it’d grow on me, but I’m not too sure. I miss my sweaters.” Finn’s mostly teasing. though he definitely wouldn’t mind if the weather got cool enough every so often for a cozy knit sweater. “No, no. Nick would never. It’s very kind of him to offer me his old flat...and his couch at his.” The blonde says, shaking his head. Jace’s offer catches him by surprise though, pursing his lips slightly at the thought. “That’s awfully kind of you, mate. Are you sure West won’t mind if I borrow his room? I mean, obviously I would take the couch on his weekends, I wouldn’t want to impose. Just until there’s something more affordable available.” He adds, stepping out from behind the punching bag to switch positions with Jace. “You getting tired? Let me let you take a break.” 

[finnausten]

jacexlopez​:

Jace wasn’t sure how or why he had dragged Finn to the gym with him the first time but it was pretty common to find them between there and Mulligans any given day. He needed to stay in shape not because he wanted to look good but because other people’s lives depended on him to be able to carry them to safety at the most perilous circumstances. “Did your cousin sort out the whole moving thing yet?” He asked between jabs at the punching bag, sweat dampening his hair and dripping slowly down his face and arms. His eyes were focused on the target but it was obvious who he was talking to. Finn had told him about Nick and Duncan’s decision and he knew he had been looking for places. Apartment hunting in LA was no fun, he knew that well enough himself. “How’s your search going?”

@finnausten​

Keeping is grip on the bag Jace is currently punching, Finn shrugs, biting his tongue for a moment. He was in a bit of a tricky situation, really. His lease was ending soon and he had originally planned to stay with Nick, but now his cousin was moving in with his boyfriend. And while he was thrilled for Nick and Duncan, it didn’t exactly help his finding a place to live situation. “Ah, well...he’s definitely moving in with his boyfriend...and while I adore them both, I’m not too keen on sleeping on their couch. They’re still in their honeymoon phase, if you catch my drift...” Shaking his head, he scrunches his nose, not wanting to think about what the two of them did in their alone time. “Nick said I could have the flat his job provided for him, but it’s a little pricey...and it’s not very close to campus. It’d do in a pinch and obviously I appreciate the offer, but I’m still looking. I’ll be here for at least a couple more years, so I need a flat of my own. Remind me why California real estate is so expensive? It’s so hot and you don’t get any seasons!” 

[finnausten]

jacexlopez​:

“You don’t need to but… it’s fun.” Jace tilted his beer as he made his point, pursing his lips playfully. It was a rough night. A rough day. Fuck it, a rough year, if he was honest, and he felt bad that he had, somehow and to some extent, ruined Finn’s night along the way despite of what the other was saying. “I really can’t talk much either. I mean, at the end of the day, I go from work to the gym to Mulligans, here and back again. Kacey can be fun but she’s also a big pain in my ass!” Since his divorce, Jace had picked up more than one too many over time shifts to make up for the cost of the lawyers and finding his own place and trying to survive, really. It was a lot but at least it kept him busy, his mind on other things than the complete disaster that was his personal life which could be lethal in his line of work. When he laughed, it wasn’t really because he found Finn’s words funny but highly arguable. “I hope that your version of decently good looking with brains is the British equivalent to what most of us Americans would call a fucking catch.” Jace wasn’t even trying to hit on Finn, he just meant it and he wanted Finn to hear it, too, as friends. If he didn’t think Finn deserved so much better than all of his shit, Jace would’ve probably tried something earlier on, before they cross that line. Now it was too late. He didn’t want to jeopardize that. This. “I’m sorry if I was out of place asking that, man. There’s so much I would’ve done differently when I was younger if i had the chance, I don’t know. I guess I just trying to understand why you willingly chose to be here instead than anywhere else. We waste so much time on people who don’t deserve it. It’s time you can never get back.” He wasn’t talking about them, really, mostly his time with Craig. There was a lot he regretted, just not West. 

"I’m gonna tell Kacey you said that!” Finn snorts, shaking his head at Jace. He’s kidding, of course, but it’s nice that they’re both laughing about it. It felt needed. Jace could be so serious sometimes. Finn often found himself wondering what the other man was thinking. The firefighter’s next words aren’t lost on him either, feeling his cheeks and ears burn slightly at the compliment. A fucking catch, eh? The response sits on the tip of his tongue for a few moments before he washes them away with a sip of his beer, shaking his head slightly. “Thanks, mate.” Finn says instead, appreciative of the compliment. “It’s alright. I know you didn’t mean it badly.” He adds, pausing for a moment. “You do deserve it, though. I like spending time with you, Jace. You’re a good guy.” Finn’s not entirely sure they’re still talking about themselves though, hesitating for a moment before be bumps Jace’s shoulder reassuringly with his. “We can’t change the past. All we can do is focus on making the future better.”

[finnausten]

jacexlopez​:

It was hard for Jace to wrap his head around everything that was going on, especially when he was going through it alone. He kept a lot of the hardships related to his divorce from his parents if only to save himself the told you so’s from his family who hadn’t been too supportive to begin. While his parents were okay with his sexuality, they were also the kind of family that liked to keep things under wraps for ‘el qué dirán’, what would people say! It’s part of the reason why he moved away. He needed to break away from that. He needed to leave that cage so he could spread his wings, even at the risk of flying too close to the sun and getting burned like he had with Craig. Jace often liked to psychoanalyze himself, which is why he hated Finn doing it for him. Tonight, however, he didn’t have the strength to fight it and he was relieved to know Finn kept his end of the bargain and didn’t push it too much either. All he needed was the company. That alone helped more than anything else. 

Letting Finn into his apartment as he made his way getting the lights on on his way, Jace asked him to get comfortable. His apartment was both eerily organized while also looking very much like a bachelor’s pad with a box of crayons or toy trucks here and there. Pulling two beers from the fridge, he walked back towards Finn and offered one. “How come?” He asked, leaning against the counter as he watched Finn carefully. “Since I’ve met you, Finn, you’re either studying or working except when, somehow you agree to come grab a drink. You’re young. You’re, you know, good looking, and you’re smart. You definitely must have better Friday night plans than to deal with my mess.” Jace half laughed as he tried to make a point.

Finn quietly takes in Jace’s place, looking around and noting the small things that he now knew belonged to West. Jace’s place definitely looked like a single guy lived there minus the few kid’s things, though Finn couldn’t say much about it. His place looked very similar. “How come...I don’t go out a lot?” The blonde asks, slightly surprised by the question. Finn supposed he had always been a bit of a homebody. He didn’t have a lot of friends growing up and always preferred a night in reading a book or doing his homework and studying than going out to parties. It was kind of Nick and Duncan to include him in their places at times, but even in his younger years Finn knew they didn’t need him third wheeling on their dates. After moving to California, he had made a small group of friends with people in his classes, and he was happy with that. Sipping from his beer, Finn shrugs, lips pursed slightly in thought before he responds. “I don’t need to go out to have a good time. This...having a drink with a friend...I prefer it. I guess I never took to clubbing.” Finn shrugs at that, unsure if his answer will satisfy Jace. He feels a little lame, and maybe a touch defensive, washing it away with another sip from drink. “Besides, I’m only decently good looking. Not sure my brains are enough to reel anyone in.” Finn adds jokingly, a chuckle escaping his lips. 

[finnausten]

nickphillips​:

“Oh, fun!” Nick teased, laughing as he reached to squeeze his cousin’s shoulder. They had spent plenty of time wasting the day at the Tate when they were younger growing up in London. Nick was obsessed with the building’s architecture and Finn always had all the fun facts about every exhibition. At the time, their age difference was almost cute. It was marked even in their school uniforms with Finn wearing his shorts with a jacket and tie while he got to wear long trousers. Jon had already moved away for uni by then and Nick was more than happy to have Finn around so he didn’t have to deal with his parents by himself. The rub was, Finn knew him too well, which also meant, because they lived under the same roof through most of his relationship with Nick before graduation, he knew what it meant to him. It took him a moment to consider his options, looking at his cousin about to refute him but he couldn’t. The week after the wedding came rushing back to him and the weeks that followed where he found himself longing for the time they had spent together even if he kept trying to tell himself not to. “He has a book signing at this store in half an hour.” Pushing his phone towards Finn, Nick waited expectantly. “Do you think we can make it on time?” 

"You should’ve led with that!” Shaking his head at Nick, Finn lets out a laugh, peering at the address that was on his cousin’s phone screen. “If we leave now, we should be able to make it. I know that shop, it’s only a few blocks from here.” Moving to his feet, he reaches for his wallet, tossing a couple of bills onto the table. “Let’s go. I’m sure you can get a copy of the book there. I’ll browse around while you’re making eyes at Duncan...I mean, attending the reading. I promised West I’d get him a book. Just text me when you’re done, yeah?”

[finnausten]

jacexlopez​:

The silence wasn’t uncomfortable between them, Jace noticed as they walked towards his apartment without really planning it. He appreciated it, too. The last thing he wanted to do was say the wrong thing and take out all his anger on Finn. It was hard to anyway, especially when Finn reassured him he was gay which only earned him a snort. “I had an idea.” He admits, shaking his head. He always hated having to define himself one way or another. There is a light grin playing on his lips hearing Finn calling his ex an arse, echoing the word himself but the mention of West just makes him sigh again, approaching the stoop to his place. “Divorce is shitty no matter who’s involved.” Jace, runs a hand down his face, waving it between them as he talks, as if the gesture will help his words make any sense. “I just don’t want him to think I bailed on him. I’m not—talking about the birthday party either but the whole thing. I moved out. I left him behind. Sometimes I don’t even know if I made the right choice.” Not that he wanted to get back together with Craig. Jace really didn’t want that at all. Craig was manipulative and controlling. He thought that, because he brought in most of the money, things would go his way, people would do his bidding. He had no voice, no say. He was miserable in their marriage since the moment the facade dropped and the honeymoon stage was over. He allowed himself to believe he could have it all only to realize it was just fake. He could be telling all of this to Finn but Jace didn’t want him to think he was just another fucked up guy who needed some help. “This is me.” He said, tilting his head towards the door. “Do you uh- wanna come in? I got some beer. I won’t be such a fucking drag, I promise. I just… needed to get out of there, you know, there were too many people, it was too loud.”

As bad as it might’ve sounded, Finn grew up wishing his parents had gotten divorced. They weren’t particularly happy together...or maybe they had just never been particularly happy with him. Parenting had never been their strong suit. His parents weren’t bad people, per se, just bad parents. “—yeah.” The blonde finally says, realizing he’s been quiet a few moments too long, nodding slowly. “I know it doesn’t seem like it now...but the very fact that you’re so worried about what West thinks of you only shows how much you haven’t bailed. If you didn’t still care, you wouldn’t be thinking about him. But you are, and you do...and he knows that. I’m sure he does.” Finn says reassuringly, giving Jace a light pat on the back. “You got yourself out of a bad situation. That’s always the right choice.” He adds, letting his words hang in the air between them. Before long they’re at Jace’s front door, hesitating for a moment before he nods at the offer. “I could go for another beer. You’re all good, mate. I’m happy to have a night in. I’m more of a homebody, in case you haven’t noticed by now.” 

[finnausten]

nickphillips​:

“Oh, it’s only a matter of time before my mum and dad decide to pay us a visit before I leave LA, I’m sure!” Nick knew just how much his parents loved and cared for Finn too so it really wasn’t just a matter of him being in California now but the chance to see two of their boys at once. Growing up there had never been a difference in treatment when it came to his brother and him, and Finn. “Right, well, at least I know I can make the meanest and crispiest Sunday roast potatoes. If anything else, we’ll have potatoes and that’s pretty much all we need in life!” He laughed, rising his glass for a toast before taking another sip from his beer, shaking his head when Finn calls himself a nerd when everyone had always had just considered him the smartest one of them all. “The one.” Nick wasn’t able to stop himself from blushing at the poking questions but he still tried, groaning playfully. “I’ve told you already about what happened at Elle’s wedding… and after…” It wasn’t a big secret, at least not between them, but Nick may have played things cool maybe. Now that they were face to face it was probably not going to work out well for him. It wasn’t already. It was written all over his face, just hearing his ex’s name, how it affected him. “We’re not. Not really. I don’t think so. We haven’t seen each other since. We’ve texted here and there.” He shrugged, running a hand through his hair. “I don’t know if it’s a good idea, Finn, look what happened the first time. It’s one thing to fool around no strings attached, but with Duncan? We both know I won’t be able to pull that off. Not with him. There’s too much history there. But to go through the same heartbreak again? I can’t do that either. I know I will fall like an utter fool and hit myself in the face.”

"Yes! There are plenty of museums, we can find one the whole family will enjoy.” Finn replies, grinning softly. When he did have a free day, he liked to go to museums. Honestly, Finn just loved to learn, no matter the subject. He isn’t about to let the conversation about Duncan go so easily either, raising a brow as he waits for an explanation from his cousin. Nick had told him about what happened at their friend’s wedding and how Duncan had gone back home with him. It had all been a bit surprising - and a bit romantic - but Finn was team Nick first and foremost. He was still a bit wary of Duncan reappearing in Nick’s life, but he also wanted to be supportive. “Well...I suppose the question is whether or not you want to see him again. Los Angeles is big enough that you don’t have to worry about running into him at the shops. But if there’s even a chance that you think things will be different this time around...then you shouldn’t deny yourself because if you do, you’ll be stuck wondering what if for the rest of your life.” 

[finnausten]

jacexlopez​:

Jace wasn’t sure why he hadn’t brought up West before. At first it made sense for him to keep that information to himself. Finn was just a guy he just met and happened to cross paths with a few times. Even if he didn’t quite know the extent of their friendship yet, the truth undeniable truth was that they were spending more and more time together. “I don’t know that, Finn. That’s the thing.” The firefighter sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose for a moment trying to calm himself. His exterior seemed mostly composed even if tense but, deep inside, he was this close to exploding and he didn’t want to take his anger and frustration with Craig on the man standing before him. Finn didn’t deserve that. Jace was about to stop him, to turn around and leave him behind before he could make a bigger fool of himself but for whatever reason, he stayed, waited for Finn to grab his things and walk down a few blocks without saying too much but appreciating the company after all. “I’m sorry.” He offered quietly, not really sure what to say or where to start. “Before I say anything else, thank you.” For the walk, he added with a shrug, for the company. It went unsaid, really, but Jace pressed his lips in a thin smile that didn’t quite reach his eyes. “My ex-husband—” Pausing almost as if worried about Finn’s reaction to that new shed of information, careful about people’s reactions to same-sex marriages. Not that it mattered but they hadn’t officially introduced each other and shared their sexual preference, even if they probably had an idea by now. “He travels a lot for work so it was mostly just his kid and I back home. When I divorced him, I did it selfishly. I did it because I needed to get away from him, but I never wanted to leave the kid behind.” That guilt still got to Jace and Craig knew just how to use it against him. “Now I can’t do anything about it. I’ve tried. I’m still trying. I just don’t know how let West know that I haven’t given up yet. He’s six. There’s only so much of this he can understand.”

"Okay.” Finn says softly, not wanting to upset Jace further by saying anything else. He didn’t know the situation with his ex and he certainly didn’t want to pretend that he did. Finn knew better than to push an already sensitive situation, and he didn’t need to be a therapist in training to tell how tense Jace was feeling. Giving the firefighter’s shoulder a reassuring squeeze, Finn offers him a smile, lips pursing slightly at the apology the other man offers. “It’s alright. You don’t have to thank me.” The Brit responds, shaking his head. That’s what friends were for, right? And they were certainly becoming friends. Or at least Finn thought that they were, especially given the fact that they were hanging out more and more lately. The admission that Jace’s ex is a man doesn’t make Finn pause, though he can tell that Jace is watching him for a reaction, simply nodding as he listens. It didn’t really matter to him what Jace’s sexuality was, whether he was straight or bi or gay wasn’t any of his business. Finn was glad he felt comfortable enough to tell him though, happy to get to know the other man a big better. "You know that I’m gay, right?” Finn points out after a minute, raising a brow over at Jace. “Your ex sounds like a prick though. I’m sorry he’s such an arse. He shouldn’t be using West as a bargaining chip.” The blonde sighs, shaking his head. “Not that you asked for my advice, but...just be honest with West as much as you can without trashing his dad. Children understand more than we give them credit for. He may be upset with you at first, but...he’ll come around.”

[finnausten]

nickphillips​:

“I’m sure I could expense the Uber.” Nick laughed, rolling his eyes at his cousin when Finn called him mr. Hotshot. He wasn’t, really, he was just a single man with nothing tying him to any one place which was very convenient for his employees. He was also more than happy to jump at the opportunity when it was offered knowing Finn was in LA. He just so happened to work at a wealthy company with money to spare, in his opinion, for both of their benefit, really. “Mum is already highly proud of you. The kitchen is still not my area of expertise. I’ll do okay to survive but don’t expect me to go all Jamie Oliver any time soon. Just please tell her I helped with the dishes. She’ll at least think that was nice of me.” The blonde grinned at his own expense, shrugging. “It has a bloody fine ring to it, Finn. I still don’t know how you do it, all the studying. I always knew you were the smart one out of the three of us.” His smiled turned tender, so very genuinely happy to see his cousin, to be in the same city for a few months at least. Nick loved Finn like a brother. “I’ve missed you too, mate. I’m happy to see you doing well, I mean it. I don’t know why it took us this long to have a proper outing. I still owe Duncan a visit, too. But now things are finally settled. I’ll be better. I promise.”

"I miss your mum. your whole family, really! Remind me again why I couldn’t have been born a Phillips?” Finn half-jokes, shaking his head. “So neither one of us are the next Gordon Ramsay. I’m sure we can manage to put together something edible. If not...well, I know a few good places we can order takeaway from!” Chuckling, he smiles back at his cousin, so happy to be seeing him face to face again. It had been far too long since they had been together in person. “Eh, we both know I’ve always been more into my books than anything else. The studying shouldn’t take you by too much surprise. I quite like it, all of the research and such. Even if it does make me seem quite nerdy.” Growing up, Finn spent most of his time at home with his books. Perhaps it has shaped him in ways he still couldn’t quite explain. Any thought about that leaves his mind when Duncan is brought up thought, raising a brow in the blonde’s direction. “Duncan? As in, Buchanan? Now this just got interesting. Are you two...?” Finn asks, unsure of quite how to phrase the question, gesturing vaguely instead. “Tell me everything!” 

[finnausten]

jacexlopez​:

Running his hand through his hair when Finn repeats himself, Jace scratches his eyebrow idly and shakes his head. He’s well aware about how little he’s shared to his new friend about his life which was quite a fit considering Finn was brought to the station with the main intention of having the firefighters open up to them. This, however, he wasn’t quite ready to share. He wasn’t yet either but as the phone blinked with another text that read from West but was really Craig, the firefighter had no other option. “West is my kid.” He said, voice sounding almost in defeat, replying to the text regardless. “Well, my ex’s kid.” He corrected himself. “I can’t see him but it was his birthday this weekend. My ex actually told him I was coming to the party to which I wasn’t invited and I still can’t go because there are legal court hearings we have coming up and I can’t do anything that could make my custody case even worse by showing up unannounced… but he waited for me and I never showed up.” That’s what hurt the most. How can you explain to a 6-year-old kid what’s going on? Jace closed his eyes, downing what was rest of his drink, which wasn’t much anymore but melted ice. Shaking his head, he pulled his wallet and dropped a couple of bucks on the bar. “Did I just ruin your one night out this week?” He offered a small apologetic smile. “Dinner’s on me to make up for it.”

Finn wasn’t really sure what he was expecting Jace to say, but it wasn’t the fact that he had a kid. He’s mostly surprised that it hasn’t come up before, but then again, they didn’t exactly know each other’s life stories. Their friendship was still pretty new, all things considering. He’s not upset, nodding slowly as he listens to Jace explain the situation. “I’m really sorry to hear that. I know it’s hard for him to understand now, but...I’m sure you’ll get a chance to explain.” Finn replies, trying to offer some advice without sounding like he was trying to therapize him in any way. “Just be honest with him. Kids...they understand more than we give them credit for.” Clearing his throat after that, Finn scratches the back of his neck, shaking his head when Jace mentions ruining his nice. “Nah, don’t worry about it. Let’s get some takeaway and head back to your place. You can tell me more about this kid of yours, if you’d like.” 

[finnausten]

nickphillips​:

“Between that and the fact that they drive on the wrong side of the street here, I won’t be owning a car here anytime soon.” The architect laughed but, in truth, his apartment building was right in the city center and walking distance from his office so there really was no need even if his company did offer if he were to change his mind. “I think I’ll miss the rain.” Nick said genuinely. Both his brother and cousin had moved away from England a few years back but it was only recently he had started taking international projects and he always found himself missing home after a while. California was different, maybe, in the fact that Finn was there. Everywhere else it was just him, working, navigating a new city on his own. He was excited to be reunited with his cousin. He was nervous to be in the same county as Duncan. For now, he was just trying to take it one day at a time, settling down. “You’re welcomed whenever, mate. It’s just me and a few boxes right now. I haven’t had the chance to unpack because of work but I’ll take a couple of days this week to get that done. If you’re looking for something to do, I could always use a hand.” It was a good excuse to claim some extra time with Finn but Nick also needed some help. Everything was new to him in LA. “How’s school? How’s life? Can you believe we’re both here now?” 

"Thank god for Uber and Lyft!” Finn laughs, shaking his head. He had been in California for a few years now and he still wasn’t used to it. At least the bus system wasn’t too bad. Public transportation in LA was decent enough. He managed to get where he needed to be, at least. “I’m sure your fancy new position has a driving service for you though. If not, you should ask for it! They seem to be pretty happy to give you whatever, Mr. Hotshot.” The blonde says teasingly, grinning back at his cousin. He was really happy for Nick and his new position, even if it was only temporary. “Let me know when you’re free. We’ll make dinner, break in your kitchen. A proper meal, nothing from a can. You mum would be so proud.” Taking a sip from his glass of water, Finn leans ack in his seat, shrugging at the question. “School’s good. I’m finishing up my coursework this year, and then onto my dissertation for the next couple of years, so that’s pretty exciting. Dr. Finneas Austen has a pretty nice ring to it, I must admit. Almost makes all of the student loan debt worth it. Kidding. We both know that it does.” Finn jokes, chuckling quietly at himself.  “It’s mad, isn’t it? That we’re both here. I’m glad that we are, though. I’ve missed you.”

[finnausten]

jacexlopez​:

Being around Finn was easy, refreshing. Jace could get away from the constant stress from work and fighting with Craig over West while hanging out with Finn, which had become a more regular thing after they met at the bar for drinks. Much to Kacey’s regret, and maybe a little of his, too, they had somehow come to a quiet agreement about it all, their friendship. Jace wasn’t in the right mind to even attempt hitting on Finn and, to be honest, he wasn’t even sure if that would be reciprocated. They sometimes met for dinner or a drink at Mulligan’s after a long shift or Finn’s study groups, like had been the case that night. Jace had almost ditched, though. It hadn’t been a good day. West had been calling him constantly. The kid was expecting Jace to pick him up but his dad had never really agreed. Jace was fighting the urge of just showing up regardless but he knew better. He couldn’t afford doing something that could hurt him in court and that was, perhaps, exactly what Craig was trying to do. He was a little jittery and not entirely there in the conversation, excusing himself more than once when his phone rang. It wasn’t the first time he had picked up a call from West around Finn, and he had always excused himself for some privacy, but this time it was different. It wasn’t just the fact that Finn could probably read him but also having spent so much time together lately, he was probably not going to have it as easy to pretend nothing was wrong. 

“I’m sorry.” The firefighter apologized after he had stepped out for the third or fourth time, his food practically untouched at the bar. “I just gotta take these. It’s um—” He just shrugged, pushing his plate away, grimacing at the taste of his now gone warm beer. “Complicated.”

Finn could tell that Jace was distracted. He wasn’t sure why - maybe a bad call or a long shift - but he didn’t have to be a psychology student to see that the man was on edge. Jace’s phone kept ringing, and even though Finn kept saying go ahead, answer it, he couldn’t help but feel a little...jealous? It was silly, really. Jace had other friends, maybe even a significant other. Finn knew that and was fine with it. Of course he was! That wasn’t the issue. There really wasn’t one, not really. Whatever was on Jace’s mind and whoever kept calling him was obviously important. 

“It’s alright.” Finn replies when Jace returns, offering the firefighter a small smile. “If you need to go, we can call it a night. This, uh, West seems pretty important.” He had caught the came on the caller ID once, not trying to snoop, looking mostly out of curiosity before he could stop himself. “Seriously. If someone needs you, you should go. No hard feelings.” 

[finnausten]

nickphillips​:​​

Nick had jumped at the opportunity to move to LA when the projected he would be working on was presented to him, looking forward to spend some time with Finn and just have a nice change of scenery for a bit. “Traffic is insufferable in this city, bloody hell!” Nick exhaled, his every feature beaming excitedly at the sight of his cousin. They had met a few times but they were yet pending a proper meeting since his arrival, in his opinion. “Me? Look at you. I thought you spent all your time at the library studying but you have that California glow.” Nick pointed out, taking a seat across from his cousin. He reached for the carafe, pouring some water on the empty glass in front of him, thirsty. He was always thirsty in this state. “It’s been mental with work and the move and, well, you know how it is. You should come check out the flat now that they’ve finished installing all the furniture, and you know, I’ve got a spare room.”  

"Right, should have warned you about that.” Finn chuckles, shrugging his shoulders a bit. “Ha, thanks. I do get out sometimes. The beaches can get a little crazy, but I do like doing my reading at the beach every so often. You’ll get some color in no time too, it hardly ever rains here!” California was the opposite of home, weather wise. It took some getting used to, that was for sure. “I bet. I’d love to come over once you’re ready for visitors though. How’s the new job? Are you settling in alright?”

[finnausten]

jacexlopez​:

“How about you?” Jace asked randomly. “Is it only temporary for you too?” He really had no ulterior motive for the question other than sheer curiosity. When he moved to LA he knew it wasn’t a temporary choice. He didn’t know it would be a permanent choice either, not back then, not before he met Craig. He would’ve probably considered moving after the divorce, though, a change of scenery, had it not been for West. Jace cleared his throat, washing his thoughts away with a gulp from his beer, practically choking on it at Finn’s teasing. “When have I been not nice?” He knew when, though. Their very own first encounter hadn’t been the friendliest. Jace was going through a rough patch and the last thing he needed was having someone trying to dig deep into things he wasn’t ready to share in the first place. The station was his safe place, his reaction to their presence had been defensive. “You know, maybe you shouldn’t really answer that. I’ll be nice, though. The way you’re talking about him makes him sound like a pretty cool guy. He’ll fit right in.”

"I don’t know. I suppose it depends on where the job offers come from.” Finn says honestly, shrugging a bit. He still had a few years left of school left before he had to make any major decisions. In all honesty, he would be perfectly happy not moving back home. His relationship with his parents wasn’t the best and he didn’t have many other connections there aside from Nick and his family. It’s a thought for another time, an amused laugh leaving the blonde’s lips when Jace tells him not to answer the question about his niceness, holding up his hands innocently. “Yeah? I’ll do that once he gets settled. His company’s renting him a flat, so at least he doesn’t have to worry about too much.” 

[finnausten]

It was a rare day that Finn had off from classes. After spending the afternoon doing some schoolwork, he leaves to go meet his cousin for dinner. Arriving at the spot, he waits for Nick to arrive, waving him over to their table once he spots him. “You look well. I guess LA has been kind to you, eh?” Finn asks after giving the other man a quick hug, squeezing his shoulder lightly. “You settling in alright?”

@nickphillips​​

[finnausten]

jacexlopez​:

Finn seems chill enough, Jace thinks, more so now that they’re not at the station and he’s not being psychoanalyzed. Jace knew it hadn’t been his fault or anyone else’s, really, but he wasn’t used to sharing his problems with anyone and that included how he felt and reacted to things that happened in his life, personal and professional. He had his own way of handling things. He didn’t exactly ignore his issues, he just rather do something about it than talk about them. Now that they had somewhat left that aside, at least for the time being, Jace could say he actually liked Finn, or at least, didn’t mind hanging out with him like this. He was easy to talk to and had somehow fit perfectly into his private space here at Mulligan’s, his hiding spot from the real world, like he called it. He wasn’t sure if it had been a smart idea to let him in like this but it was too late to take it back now and, to be fair, he saw no reason why he’d want to do that. “Is he moving here from England too? Why are y’all fleeing England? Our grass is definitely not greener here, I promise.” He teased but nodded, smiling with understanding. “My family is mostly in Texas though I have a couple of cousins down in San Diego too. It’s crazy I don’t get to visit often and they’re still close in comparison so I can imagine how excited you are about your cousin.” He did have some family in LA but that was complicated. Clearing his throat, he called at Kacey for another round for both of them. “You should bring him over when he’s here, your cousin. Kacey will be nice, I promise.”

Chuckling quietly at Jace’s question, Finn shakes his head, reaching for his beer to take another sip. “Nah. Nick’s work is sending him out here for a project. It’s only temporary, I think.” He wasn’t sure if his cousin was planning to go back home after, but Finn was happy to have him around for as long as he could have him. He had always looked up to Nick and Finn really did miss him now that there was so much distance between them. The differing time zones didn’t help either, so when he had heard Nick was coming out to LA for work, he was thrilled. “Yeah?” Smiling at the invitation to bring him to Mulligan’s, Finn nods, accepting the second beer as it comes from Kacey. “And what about you? Will you be nice?” He asks teasingly, smirking back at the firefighter.