Lucas Baird

Retired Military | Rancher Mod is over 18

[lucas-baird]

Y’need somethin?

File: Lucas J. Baird

Basic Information

Name: Lucas James Baird

Age: 35

Birthday: April 16, 1990

Height: 5’11”

YOS: 16

Status: Retired

Appearance

Eyes: Brown

Notable marks: Burn scar, down to gums, left side of face. Tattoos on arms, chest, and back.

Hair: Grown to a mullet, stubble on most of jaw.

Scent: pine, cigars, whiskey

Past relations: one divorce, no notable contact with parents. Five year old daughter

pets: multiple horses and cattle, german shepherd named bjorn

hi, it’s sharky. i don’t tolerate AI, stealing others work, or hate. i will block ya if i feel like it

smooches

[lt-artificer-lazarus]

coughs super loud and so kindly

Lucas thought it’d be an average grocery outing. Getting the necessities and heading back home. In and out. Though what he didn’t expect was to see a familiar 6’11” man in the aisle he was about to step into.

Part of him wanted to just loop around, come back, though the other part of him wanted to stay.

It had been almost a year since Lucas retired, packed up his things and headed back to the ranch for good. So to see Lazarus stood before him, minding his own business, somehow caused a tight feeling in Lucas’ chest.

He took a deep breath and stepped forward. Going about his shopping as if he hadn’t seen the other. Though “accidentally” bumping into Lazarus. Mumbling a quick ‘sorry,’ adjusting his hat, before moving on.

@lucas-baird

's alright-

The automatic response died in his throat as he turned, eyes catching on the familiar profile already moving away.

Lucas?

The name escaped before he could stop it, the name feeling rough and uncertain on his tongue like it was an foreign word. Lazarus's hand had already started to reach out before he caught himself, fingers curling back against his palm.

Christ... didn't expect t' see ya here. How ya been?

It's been nearly a year since he'd gotten back from that mission to find Lucas gone. Retired, or so he had heard from asking around. No forwarding address, no way to reach him, nothing. Not that he exactly blamed the man, Lucas deserved that peace of getting to go to a home instead of waiting for the one mission that would make sure he wouldn't wake up. But Christ, it hadn't stopped the ache of it.

[lucas-baird]

The moment Lazarus said his name, he tensed.

It had been far too long since he heard his name fall from Lazarus’ lips with such ease, to cause the familiar ache in his chest. Maybe it was nostalgia, or a sense of familiarity. Regardless, it had him turning around.

“Been fine, jus’ quiet.”

Lucas stared at Lazarus for a moment, his words coming out softer than he intended. Glancing away with a sigh, fixing his hat.

“Y’been alrigh’?”

With a deep breath, he straightened himself out slightly. Looking back up to the man before him. Concern rested on his face in the moment, eyes looking around Lazarus to look for anything out of the normal on the man.

Lucas wasn’t sure how much he missed. He had been sent on retirement while Lazarus was gone. No chance to give a proper goodbye, no time to leave an address, nothing. He’d be lying if he said he didn’t miss seeing everyone, especially Laz.

[lt-artificer-lazarus]

Yeah, I'm alright. Same as always, really.

The lie came easy. Same way he'd always kept that line between the workshop and the job he told no one about, kept the messy parts of the job separate from the quiet moments they'd carved out together in the empty workshop he came back to.

But Lucas was looking at him now with that concerned expression, eyes doing that careful sweep Lazarus remembered too well, and he had to resist the urge to turn his head, to hide the new thin white line that cut across his jaw. He was just hoping the man would believe a lie that it was the blade of a machine instead of the blade of a target

Been keepin' busy with projects mostly. That antimaterial rifle finally came together, actually. Weight distribution was the trick it turns out.

Lazarus shifted his weight, acutely aware of the distance between them even as every part of him wanted to close it. His fingers flexed at his side before he shoved his hands into his pockets.

Ranch treatin' ya well? Still got that temperamental colt tossin' ya around?

The question came out softer than he intended, nostalgia from a past conversation bleeding into his words

[lucas-baird]

Lucas continued looking over Lazarus while he spoke, taking note of new marks or scars. Huffing lightly at the sight of a new scar across Lazarus’ jaw. He didn’t know where it came from, or what caused it, but seeing more marks across the other man’s face made his stomach twist just slightly.

He stopped himself from reaching up to see the mark better, curling his fingers into his palm instead.

At the mention of the colt that used to throw him around on leave, he snorted. Shaking his head at the memory of coming back to base all sore.

“Nah… sold ‘im a while back. Made a damn good reinin’ horse.”

As the aisle they were standing in started to have more come and go, Lucas stepped closer to Lazarus. Easier to talk, but also kept himself out of the way of everyone else.

Not that he’d really complain to be closer to Lazarus again.

“Nice t’hear ‘bout tha’ rifle though. Was hopin’ you’d figure it out, was excited t’hear ’bout it.”

[lt-artificer-lazarus]

As Lazarus felt the shift when Lucas moved closer, that familiar pull Lazarus felt towards Lucas only grew. The mention of the colt being sold off brought a ghost of a smile to his face, something in his chest tightening at the casual way Lucas said it. Lazarus truly was a selfish man being so jealous of the moments that passed him by without him.

Glad ya managed t' find someone t' take care of him then.

Someone pushed past with a shopping cart, forcing them even closer together for a moment. Lazarus didn't step back when they passed staying right where he was in Lucas's orbit, like some part of him was afraid that if he gave ground Lucas might disappear before his eyes.

Look, know ya probably got shoppin' t' finish, but… well would ya want t' grab coffee or somethin'? No pressure if ya'd rather not I just—

I missed you

—it'd be good t' hear how ya've been. Plus, don't have it with me but could tell ya how I managed t' figure the rifle out

[lucas-baird]

As they were pushed even closer, Lucas let out a breath. Shoulders dropping just enough to relax more than before. Staring up at the man like there weren’t other people around them shopping.

The mention of going for coffee had Lucas completely forgetting about the groceries he needed. Surely he could just come back afterward. He didn’t want to lose the opportunity to catch up with Lazarus, let alone let the man walk away from him.

“No no I—”

Don’t fuck up now.

“We coul’ go f’r coffee ‘r… th’ranch ain’t that far—“

Lucas huffed, glancing away with an awkward hand on his neck, rubbing up and down. Shrugging after a second, somewhat brushing off his own comment.

Inviting someone to your home that you hadn’t seen in months? Good job, dumbass.

“Don’t ‘ave t’go… coffee shop works.”

[lt-artificer-lazarus]

Ranch sounds good. Brilliant, even.

The words tumbled out faster than Lazarus could stop them, too eager, too honest. He tried to rein it back and clear his throat, but it was impossible with the way hope had already leaked into his voice.

If yer sure, I mean. Don't want t' impose or nothin'.

But even as he said it, there was no hiding the way his whole posture had shifted, the tension draining from his shoulders. Laz's fingers had finally uncurled in his pockets, and he was already half-turned toward Lucas like his body had made the decision before his brain caught up. The grocery shopping felt utterly irrelevant now, he could always come back later. None of it mattered compared to this.

Been wonderin' what the place looked like, actually. Always wished I could see it when ya used t' talk about it back in the workshop.

[lucas-baird]

A sigh of relief left Lucas at Lazarus’ words. The way the other seemed to answer without hesitation, agreeing to come to the ranch. A hint of a smile was starting to form, skin bunching up by his eyes and showing off his crows feet.

“Y’ain’t imposin’, ‘m happy y’want t’see th’ranch.”

For the first time in a while, Lucas was excited. He didn’t get to show people the ranch often, especially not old friends. He was proud of his home in ways he couldn’t express.

“Coul’ go after y’get done with shoppin’? I don’ want t’interrupt ya.”

[lt-artificer-lazarus]

Shoppin' can wait. Nothin' I need that can't be grabbed later.

The words coming out without hesitation. Lazarus pulled his hands from his pockets finally, one coming up to run through his hair to soothe the boyish nervousness that was building in his chest. Not that he could really help it, there was something about the man in front of him that soothed him like no other.

Lead the way, ayy? Can follow in my bike unless you've got things ya need t' grab first.

There was something hopeful in his expression now, unguarded in a way Lazarus rarely allowed himself to be. Like he was afraid if they didn't leave now, the moment might dissolve, and he'd find himself alone in the grocery aisle wondering if this had all been some daydream.

[lucas-baird]

“Shit ‘ere can wait.”

Lucas didn’t hesitate to leave his groceries behind, brushing a hand against Laz’s as he began to walk back to the front of the store. He wasn’t going to wait another moment.

The whole idea of Lazarus coming to his ranch had him excited and being excited wasn’t something he had felt in a long while.

As they approached the front sliding doors of the store, he turned around to face the other. One, to make sure Lazarus was there and actually following, but to also ask him a question.

“Y’want t’ride ‘n th’truck? Didn’t know wha’ y’were feelin’.”

[lt-artificer-lazarus]

Lazarus felt the brief contact of Lucas's hand against his, that fleeting touch sending a jolt through him that he tried not to show on his face. His fingers twitched with the urge to reach back, but he held himself in check as he followed without hesitation. Long strides easily keeping pace as they headed toward the front of the store. When Lucas turned to face him, Lazarus didn't even have to think about his answer.

Got the bike parked out front, but honestly? Rather ride with ya. Can text a friend nearby t' pick it up, don't even need t' wait.

The words came out easy, honest. None of that mattered compared to this. there was a moment's hesitation before his hand reached forward to catch Lucas's properly this time. Fingers wrapping around the other man's hand with a firm grip.

I'm not lettin' ya outta my sight now that I found ya again. So ya just lead the way, and I'll be right there with ya.

He said it with a slight grin, trying to play it off as lighthearted, but there was an unmistakable edge of sincerity underneath. His thumb brushed absently against Lucas's knuckles, a familiar gesture from all those times in the workshop when touch had been easier than words.

[lucas-baird]

Lucas froze when a hand wrapped with his own. Turning his head to look up at the man next to him. A deep weight of uncertainty being taken off of his shoulders, allowing him to breathe.

“To th’truck then.”

With a gentle tug, he pulled the other out to the parking lot.

As they approached the truck, he made sure he was walking in front of Lazarus. Rounding their strides over to the passenger side. Reaching in his pocket to unlock the truck, then opening the passenger door and turning to face Lazarus.

“In ya go.”

Giving the other man’s hand a squeeze, he let go. Letting Laz get into the truck and adjust seating if needed. Waiting until he knew the other was settled before shutting the passenger door. Making his way to the driver side and pulling himself in.

[lt-artificer-lazarus]

Lazarus let himself be pulled along, that grip on his hand feeling more solid and real than anything had in months. The parking lot, the other shoppers, the world around them. Well it all faded to background noise. There was just Lucas's hand in his and the certainty that he was following him home.

When they reached the truck and Lucas rounded to the passenger side, Lazarus felt a flicker of amusement cut through the tangle of emotions in his chest. The way Lucas opened the door for him, it was so him that Lazarus couldn't help the small huff of a amusement that escaped.

Such a gentleman

He teased lightly, unable to hide the affection in his voice. Lazarus climbed into the truck, his large frame folding into the passenger seat with some effort. As he settled in, adjusting the seat back to accommodate his height, Lazarus pulled out his phone. Already pulling up his contacts to shoot off a quick text about the bike. When Lucas pulled himself into the driver's seat, Lazarus pocketed his phone and turned to face him properly. 

Bike's handled. 

A pause, and then a small grinned formed on Lazarus’s face that was soft yet sharpened by his scars all the same

So take me home, cowboy.

[lucas-baird]

The truck rumbled down the gravel driveway and got thrown into park once they reached the ranch. Lucas turned to look at Lazarus from the drivers seat, a small grin on his face.

“Well, tha’s it.”

His hand gestured towards the windshield, noting the land and buildings before the two of them. A log cabin-like farm house, a spare garage, a barn, and land before it all.

“Know it ain’t e’eryones cup of tea.”

A shrugged lightly, giving the other a light tap on the thigh before exiting the truck. He looked back, though, hoping that Lazarus would follow suite. Wanting nothing more than to show his little home to the other. Especially after all this time.

[lt-artificer-lazarus]

Lazarus stared out the windshield, his eyes sweeping across the property with an intensity that bordered on reverence.

Ya kiddin’? This is...

The light tap on his thigh cut him off, and he felt the warmth of it linger even after Lucas pulled away. He watched the other man exit the truck, that familiar ease in his movements, and Lazarus didn't hesitate.

The truck door opened as he unfolded himself from the passenger seat, his boots hitting the gravel with a crunch as he took a moment to really take it in. The smell of earth and grass, the kind of quiet that only came from being far enough from the city. It was peaceful in a way that made his chest ache.

This is perfect.

Lazarus said it quietly, coming to stand beside Lucas. His fingers ghosted against the back of Lucas’s hand, lingering there in silent invitation.

Can see why ya came back here. Why ya stayed.

He paused, glancing down at Lucas with something soft in his expression

Show me around, won’t ya darl?

[lucas-baird]

Lucas stopped and stood as a hand brushed his own. A deep breath leaving his lips and his shoulders finally dropping.

At the mention of showing Laz around, he nodded. It was mindless, really. Taking a moment to realize what was said. Clearing his throat as he began to speak.

“Righ’… showin’ y’round…”

Hesitating for a minute before walking forward and hoping Lazarus would follow. Leading the man to the barn first, not the house.

Stepping into the aisle, he spun on his heel to look up at the other man. Then, dropping his eyes to glance around the barn he spent most of his days in.

“This th’barn. Ain’t nothin’ special, really. Down ‘ere leads t’th’ pastures.”

A hand gestured out to the other door, a glimpse of land was able to be seen beyond. No telling how far it would go.

[lucas-baird]

Uhhhh, can I have Big Mac and a mcflurry

Uh— y’can ‘ave a burger I guess?

[lucas-baird]

For the au oc asks, S and J‼️

game

J. (J)RPG. What kind of hero would your OC be in a JRPG (or any other RPG). Would they have any special skills, weapons, or finishing moves? What tier character would they be?

as funny as it is, a weapon of his would be a lasso. i think he’d hogtie his opponent before doing any sort of special move to stun them temporarily!

that’s all my brain can think

—————

S. star wars au. What would your OC be like in a Star Wars AU? What era would they be in: sequel, prequel, original trilogy, old republic? Would they be Force sensitive?

lucas would for sure be in the trilogy, i just don’t know where! he really could go on either side, if im honest. as for being force sensitive though? i think that’d make him too powerful

[lucas-baird]

V. vigilante au. What would your OC's superpower be? Would they be a hero or a villain? Do they believe that with great power comes great responsibility?

—owo—

oc ask game

as much as i’d want to say lucas would be either, i genuinely think he’d be an anti-hero. no matter the au, the basis of his story does remain. he is not a good guy, at all, but at the same time he’d help people.

it’s complicated

[lucas-baird]

W. werewolves (& vampires). Is your OC more of a vampire or a werewolf? How would they feel about being turned into a creature of the night? Would they be part of a clan, a pack, a coven?

oc ask link

i’ve actually had this conversation with many people, but lucas could definitely lean either way. my mind can never make up what it wants him to be.

on one hand, he’d be one evil mf if he was a vampire, but he also has the personality of a dog which would make a werewolf easier to write.

so short answer, idk he could go both ways!

[lucas-baird]

K. kids. Does your OC have kids? What are their kids like? If they don't have kids, would they? What would they be like as a parent?

oc ask link

funny enough, lucas has a daughter normally. he has a five year old little girl named cordelia baird! she’s honestly a splitting image of her daddy, attitude and all. the relationship is complicated due to the ex-wife, but he loves her dearly!

[cityandking]

oc asks: AU ABCs

Same characters, different worlds! Send a letter to learn about an alternate universe.

A. alternate universe. What kind of AU is your OC best suited to? Are there any AUs they're in already? What are they?

B. band au. What is your OC like in a band AU? Are they a performer or a groupie? What instrument would they play? What's their relationship with their bandmates and/or the group(s) they follow?

C. coffee shop au. What would your OC be like in a classic coffee shop AU? Are they at all suited for the barista lifestyle? What's their go-to coffee order?

D. duplicate. How would your OC react to meeting their clone or doppelganger? What if they were a clone or doppelganger? How would they feel about that?

E. education. What would your OC be like in a high school and/or college AU? What would their major be? What would they teach if they were an educator?

F. fey. What kind of fey or fairy creature would your OC be? Would they be in a spooky, intense fairy world or a playful, lighthearted fairy world?

G. gods. What would your OC be the god of? If they were a demi-god, who would their divine parent be?

H. horror. Would your OC survive in a horror situation? What would their role be? How would they deal with being tossed in a horror scenario?

I. intellectual property. Are there any popular series or franchises that your OC is well-suited for? Which 'verse(s) and what makes them so well-suited?

J. (J)RPG. What kind of hero would your OC be in a JRPG (or any other RPG). Would they have any special skills, weapons, or finishing moves? What tier character would they be?

K. kids. Does your OC have kids? What are their kids like? If they don't have kids, would they? What would they be like as a parent?

L. lovers. Does your OC have different partners in different AUs? What might their love life be like in an AU? How would they do in a romance genre, like romantasy or a romcom?

M. multiverse. Are there any points in your OC's life where things could have gone differently? Where else might they have ended up? How would your OC react to crossing the multiverse and meeting another version of themself?

N. normal. What's your OC's normal world like? Are they in a fantasy setting, a sci-fi setting, the modern world? Share a little about your character's normal life.

O. omegaverse. What’s their subgender? What's their scent? How do they feel about it?

P. pacific rim au. What is your OC doing in a Pacific Rim AU? Are they drift compatible with anyone? What would their jaeger be called?

Q. quiet. What would a quiet and peaceful life look like for your OC? Would they enjoy living a simple life or would they get bored?

R. royalty au. How would your OC handle being royalty? If they're already royalty, how would they deal with being a commoner? What kind of royal would your character be?

S. star wars au. What would your OC be like in a Star Wars AU? What era would they be in: sequel, prequel, original trilogy, old republic? Would they be Force sensitive?

T. (star) trek au. What would your OC's role be in a Star Trek AU? Are they part of Starfleet? Another organization?

U. underworld. How would your OC deal with being part of a criminal underworld? Would they be a thief, a spy, a conman? Something else?

V. vigilante au. What would your OC's superpower be? Would they be a hero or a villain? Do they believe that with great power comes great responsibility?

W. werewolves (& vampires). Is your OC more of a vampire or a werewolf? How would they feel about being turned into a creature of the night? Would they be part of a clan, a pack, a coven?

X. (e)xtra. Is there an AU missing from this list? Share something about it! What would your OC be like in that new world, story or scenario?

Y. YA. How would your OC fare in a popular YA franchise (e.g. Hunger Games, Divergent, Maze Runner, etc)? Would they buy into the system? Fight against it? What would their district/faction/house/etc. be?

Z. zootopia. What animal would your OC be if they were an anthropomorphic animal? Would your OC be a furry? What would their fursona be?

[lucas-baird]

.・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜.・。.・゜✭・. .・。.・✫

The little things had been catching his eye.

Cornelia’s tire swing, the kitchen curtains, the porch swing that rocked with the wind.

All the things of her.

It had been almost six years since the divorce. Six years since his whole life up and left. Leaving him to do nothing but sit and stare when time slowed.

He could go and rekindle a flame with an old mate, get off the ranch and have some fun. Yet every text he meant to send got deleted before it was too late. Resigning himself to that spot by the sink and staring at the memories she left behind.

He wouldn’t dare sit on that side of the porch again, or change the kitchen curtains. He wouldn’t move that swing, only ensuring it was secure every so often.

He let himself dream of the memories as the sun rose and coffee filled the air. Knowing that once he stepped out for the day, it was only a matter of time before the cycle repeated.

[lt-artificer-lazarus]

coughs super loud and so kindly

Lucas thought it’d be an average grocery outing. Getting the necessities and heading back home. In and out. Though what he didn’t expect was to see a familiar 6’11” man in the aisle he was about to step into.

Part of him wanted to just loop around, come back, though the other part of him wanted to stay.

It had been almost a year since Lucas retired, packed up his things and headed back to the ranch for good. So to see Lazarus stood before him, minding his own business, somehow caused a tight feeling in Lucas’ chest.

He took a deep breath and stepped forward. Going about his shopping as if he hadn’t seen the other. Though “accidentally” bumping into Lazarus. Mumbling a quick ‘sorry,’ adjusting his hat, before moving on.

@lucas-baird

's alright-

The automatic response died in his throat as he turned, eyes catching on the familiar profile already moving away.

Lucas?

The name escaped before he could stop it, the name feeling rough and uncertain on his tongue like it was an foreign word. Lazarus's hand had already started to reach out before he caught himself, fingers curling back against his palm.

Christ... didn't expect t' see ya here. How ya been?

It's been nearly a year since he'd gotten back from that mission to find Lucas gone. Retired, or so he had heard from asking around. No forwarding address, no way to reach him, nothing. Not that he exactly blamed the man, Lucas deserved that peace of getting to go to a home instead of waiting for the one mission that would make sure he wouldn't wake up. But Christ, it hadn't stopped the ache of it.

[lucas-baird]

The moment Lazarus said his name, he tensed.

It had been far too long since he heard his name fall from Lazarus’ lips with such ease, to cause the familiar ache in his chest. Maybe it was nostalgia, or a sense of familiarity. Regardless, it had him turning around.

“Been fine, jus’ quiet.”

Lucas stared at Lazarus for a moment, his words coming out softer than he intended. Glancing away with a sigh, fixing his hat.

“Y’been alrigh’?”

With a deep breath, he straightened himself out slightly. Looking back up to the man before him. Concern rested on his face in the moment, eyes looking around Lazarus to look for anything out of the normal on the man.

Lucas wasn’t sure how much he missed. He had been sent on retirement while Lazarus was gone. No chance to give a proper goodbye, no time to leave an address, nothing. He’d be lying if he said he didn’t miss seeing everyone, especially Laz.

[lt-artificer-lazarus]

Yeah, I'm alright. Same as always, really.

The lie came easy. Same way he'd always kept that line between the workshop and the job he told no one about, kept the messy parts of the job separate from the quiet moments they'd carved out together in the empty workshop he came back to.

But Lucas was looking at him now with that concerned expression, eyes doing that careful sweep Lazarus remembered too well, and he had to resist the urge to turn his head, to hide the new thin white line that cut across his jaw. He was just hoping the man would believe a lie that it was the blade of a machine instead of the blade of a target

Been keepin' busy with projects mostly. That antimaterial rifle finally came together, actually. Weight distribution was the trick it turns out.

Lazarus shifted his weight, acutely aware of the distance between them even as every part of him wanted to close it. His fingers flexed at his side before he shoved his hands into his pockets.

Ranch treatin' ya well? Still got that temperamental colt tossin' ya around?

The question came out softer than he intended, nostalgia from a past conversation bleeding into his words

[lucas-baird]

Lucas continued looking over Lazarus while he spoke, taking note of new marks or scars. Huffing lightly at the sight of a new scar across Lazarus’ jaw. He didn’t know where it came from, or what caused it, but seeing more marks across the other man’s face made his stomach twist just slightly.

He stopped himself from reaching up to see the mark better, curling his fingers into his palm instead.

At the mention of the colt that used to throw him around on leave, he snorted. Shaking his head at the memory of coming back to base all sore.

“Nah… sold ‘im a while back. Made a damn good reinin’ horse.”

As the aisle they were standing in started to have more come and go, Lucas stepped closer to Lazarus. Easier to talk, but also kept himself out of the way of everyone else.

Not that he’d really complain to be closer to Lazarus again.

“Nice t’hear ‘bout tha’ rifle though. Was hopin’ you’d figure it out, was excited t’hear ’bout it.”

[lt-artificer-lazarus]

As Lazarus felt the shift when Lucas moved closer, that familiar pull Lazarus felt towards Lucas only grew. The mention of the colt being sold off brought a ghost of a smile to his face, something in his chest tightening at the casual way Lucas said it. Lazarus truly was a selfish man being so jealous of the moments that passed him by without him.

Glad ya managed t' find someone t' take care of him then.

Someone pushed past with a shopping cart, forcing them even closer together for a moment. Lazarus didn't step back when they passed staying right where he was in Lucas's orbit, like some part of him was afraid that if he gave ground Lucas might disappear before his eyes.

Look, know ya probably got shoppin' t' finish, but… well would ya want t' grab coffee or somethin'? No pressure if ya'd rather not I just—

I missed you

—it'd be good t' hear how ya've been. Plus, don't have it with me but could tell ya how I managed t' figure the rifle out

[lucas-baird]

As they were pushed even closer, Lucas let out a breath. Shoulders dropping just enough to relax more than before. Staring up at the man like there weren’t other people around them shopping.

The mention of going for coffee had Lucas completely forgetting about the groceries he needed. Surely he could just come back afterward. He didn’t want to lose the opportunity to catch up with Lazarus, let alone let the man walk away from him.

“No no I—”

Don’t fuck up now.

“We coul’ go f’r coffee ‘r… th’ranch ain’t that far—“

Lucas huffed, glancing away with an awkward hand on his neck, rubbing up and down. Shrugging after a second, somewhat brushing off his own comment.

Inviting someone to your home that you hadn’t seen in months? Good job, dumbass.

“Don’t ‘ave t’go… coffee shop works.”

[lt-artificer-lazarus]

Ranch sounds good. Brilliant, even.

The words tumbled out faster than Lazarus could stop them, too eager, too honest. He tried to rein it back and clear his throat, but it was impossible with the way hope had already leaked into his voice.

If yer sure, I mean. Don't want t' impose or nothin'.

But even as he said it, there was no hiding the way his whole posture had shifted, the tension draining from his shoulders. Laz's fingers had finally uncurled in his pockets, and he was already half-turned toward Lucas like his body had made the decision before his brain caught up. The grocery shopping felt utterly irrelevant now, he could always come back later. None of it mattered compared to this.

Been wonderin' what the place looked like, actually. Always wished I could see it when ya used t' talk about it back in the workshop.

[lucas-baird]

A sigh of relief left Lucas at Lazarus’ words. The way the other seemed to answer without hesitation, agreeing to come to the ranch. A hint of a smile was starting to form, skin bunching up by his eyes and showing off his crows feet.

“Y’ain’t imposin’, ‘m happy y’want t’see th’ranch.”

For the first time in a while, Lucas was excited. He didn’t get to show people the ranch often, especially not old friends. He was proud of his home in ways he couldn’t express.

“Coul’ go after y’get done with shoppin’? I don’ want t’interrupt ya.”

[lt-artificer-lazarus]

Shoppin' can wait. Nothin' I need that can't be grabbed later.

The words coming out without hesitation. Lazarus pulled his hands from his pockets finally, one coming up to run through his hair to soothe the boyish nervousness that was building in his chest. Not that he could really help it, there was something about the man in front of him that soothed him like no other.

Lead the way, ayy? Can follow in my bike unless you've got things ya need t' grab first.

There was something hopeful in his expression now, unguarded in a way Lazarus rarely allowed himself to be. Like he was afraid if they didn't leave now, the moment might dissolve, and he'd find himself alone in the grocery aisle wondering if this had all been some daydream.

[lucas-baird]

“Shit ‘ere can wait.”

Lucas didn’t hesitate to leave his groceries behind, brushing a hand against Laz’s as he began to walk back to the front of the store. He wasn’t going to wait another moment.

The whole idea of Lazarus coming to his ranch had him excited and being excited wasn’t something he had felt in a long while.

As they approached the front sliding doors of the store, he turned around to face the other. One, to make sure Lazarus was there and actually following, but to also ask him a question.

“Y’want t’ride ‘n th’truck? Didn’t know wha’ y’were feelin’.”

[lt-artificer-lazarus]

Lazarus felt the brief contact of Lucas's hand against his, that fleeting touch sending a jolt through him that he tried not to show on his face. His fingers twitched with the urge to reach back, but he held himself in check as he followed without hesitation. Long strides easily keeping pace as they headed toward the front of the store. When Lucas turned to face him, Lazarus didn't even have to think about his answer.

Got the bike parked out front, but honestly? Rather ride with ya. Can text a friend nearby t' pick it up, don't even need t' wait.

The words came out easy, honest. None of that mattered compared to this. there was a moment's hesitation before his hand reached forward to catch Lucas's properly this time. Fingers wrapping around the other man's hand with a firm grip.

I'm not lettin' ya outta my sight now that I found ya again. So ya just lead the way, and I'll be right there with ya.

He said it with a slight grin, trying to play it off as lighthearted, but there was an unmistakable edge of sincerity underneath. His thumb brushed absently against Lucas's knuckles, a familiar gesture from all those times in the workshop when touch had been easier than words.

[lucas-baird]

Lucas froze when a hand wrapped with his own. Turning his head to look up at the man next to him. A deep weight of uncertainty being taken off of his shoulders, allowing him to breathe.

“To th’truck then.”

With a gentle tug, he pulled the other out to the parking lot.

As they approached the truck, he made sure he was walking in front of Lazarus. Rounding their strides over to the passenger side. Reaching in his pocket to unlock the truck, then opening the passenger door and turning to face Lazarus.

“In ya go.”

Giving the other man’s hand a squeeze, he let go. Letting Laz get into the truck and adjust seating if needed. Waiting until he knew the other was settled before shutting the passenger door. Making his way to the driver side and pulling himself in.

[lt-artificer-lazarus]

Lazarus let himself be pulled along, that grip on his hand feeling more solid and real than anything had in months. The parking lot, the other shoppers, the world around them. Well it all faded to background noise. There was just Lucas's hand in his and the certainty that he was following him home.

When they reached the truck and Lucas rounded to the passenger side, Lazarus felt a flicker of amusement cut through the tangle of emotions in his chest. The way Lucas opened the door for him, it was so him that Lazarus couldn't help the small huff of a amusement that escaped.

Such a gentleman

He teased lightly, unable to hide the affection in his voice. Lazarus climbed into the truck, his large frame folding into the passenger seat with some effort. As he settled in, adjusting the seat back to accommodate his height, Lazarus pulled out his phone. Already pulling up his contacts to shoot off a quick text about the bike. When Lucas pulled himself into the driver's seat, Lazarus pocketed his phone and turned to face him properly. 

Bike's handled. 

A pause, and then a small grinned formed on Lazarus’s face that was soft yet sharpened by his scars all the same

So take me home, cowboy.

[lucas-baird]

The truck rumbled down the gravel driveway and got thrown into park once they reached the ranch. Lucas turned to look at Lazarus from the drivers seat, a small grin on his face.

“Well, tha’s it.”

His hand gestured towards the windshield, noting the land and buildings before the two of them. A log cabin-like farm house, a spare garage, a barn, and land before it all.

“Know it ain’t e’eryones cup of tea.”

A shrugged lightly, giving the other a light tap on the thigh before exiting the truck. He looked back, though, hoping that Lazarus would follow suite. Wanting nothing more than to show his little home to the other. Especially after all this time.

[lucas-baird]

unc :3

Th’fuck tha’ mean?

[lucas-baird]

Happy birthday sir!!!!

‘s busy yesterday, but thanks.

[lt-artificer-lazarus]

coughs super loud and so kindly

Lucas thought it’d be an average grocery outing. Getting the necessities and heading back home. In and out. Though what he didn’t expect was to see a familiar 6’11” man in the aisle he was about to step into.

Part of him wanted to just loop around, come back, though the other part of him wanted to stay.

It had been almost a year since Lucas retired, packed up his things and headed back to the ranch for good. So to see Lazarus stood before him, minding his own business, somehow caused a tight feeling in Lucas’ chest.

He took a deep breath and stepped forward. Going about his shopping as if he hadn’t seen the other. Though “accidentally” bumping into Lazarus. Mumbling a quick ‘sorry,’ adjusting his hat, before moving on.

@lucas-baird

's alright-

The automatic response died in his throat as he turned, eyes catching on the familiar profile already moving away.

Lucas?

The name escaped before he could stop it, the name feeling rough and uncertain on his tongue like it was an foreign word. Lazarus's hand had already started to reach out before he caught himself, fingers curling back against his palm.

Christ... didn't expect t' see ya here. How ya been?

It's been nearly a year since he'd gotten back from that mission to find Lucas gone. Retired, or so he had heard from asking around. No forwarding address, no way to reach him, nothing. Not that he exactly blamed the man, Lucas deserved that peace of getting to go to a home instead of waiting for the one mission that would make sure he wouldn't wake up. But Christ, it hadn't stopped the ache of it.

[lucas-baird]

The moment Lazarus said his name, he tensed.

It had been far too long since he heard his name fall from Lazarus’ lips with such ease, to cause the familiar ache in his chest. Maybe it was nostalgia, or a sense of familiarity. Regardless, it had him turning around.

“Been fine, jus’ quiet.”

Lucas stared at Lazarus for a moment, his words coming out softer than he intended. Glancing away with a sigh, fixing his hat.

“Y’been alrigh’?”

With a deep breath, he straightened himself out slightly. Looking back up to the man before him. Concern rested on his face in the moment, eyes looking around Lazarus to look for anything out of the normal on the man.

Lucas wasn’t sure how much he missed. He had been sent on retirement while Lazarus was gone. No chance to give a proper goodbye, no time to leave an address, nothing. He’d be lying if he said he didn’t miss seeing everyone, especially Laz.

[lt-artificer-lazarus]

Yeah, I'm alright. Same as always, really.

The lie came easy. Same way he'd always kept that line between the workshop and the job he told no one about, kept the messy parts of the job separate from the quiet moments they'd carved out together in the empty workshop he came back to.

But Lucas was looking at him now with that concerned expression, eyes doing that careful sweep Lazarus remembered too well, and he had to resist the urge to turn his head, to hide the new thin white line that cut across his jaw. He was just hoping the man would believe a lie that it was the blade of a machine instead of the blade of a target

Been keepin' busy with projects mostly. That antimaterial rifle finally came together, actually. Weight distribution was the trick it turns out.

Lazarus shifted his weight, acutely aware of the distance between them even as every part of him wanted to close it. His fingers flexed at his side before he shoved his hands into his pockets.

Ranch treatin' ya well? Still got that temperamental colt tossin' ya around?

The question came out softer than he intended, nostalgia from a past conversation bleeding into his words

[lucas-baird]

Lucas continued looking over Lazarus while he spoke, taking note of new marks or scars. Huffing lightly at the sight of a new scar across Lazarus’ jaw. He didn’t know where it came from, or what caused it, but seeing more marks across the other man’s face made his stomach twist just slightly.

He stopped himself from reaching up to see the mark better, curling his fingers into his palm instead.

At the mention of the colt that used to throw him around on leave, he snorted. Shaking his head at the memory of coming back to base all sore.

“Nah… sold ‘im a while back. Made a damn good reinin’ horse.”

As the aisle they were standing in started to have more come and go, Lucas stepped closer to Lazarus. Easier to talk, but also kept himself out of the way of everyone else.

Not that he’d really complain to be closer to Lazarus again.

“Nice t’hear ‘bout tha’ rifle though. Was hopin’ you’d figure it out, was excited t’hear ’bout it.”

[lt-artificer-lazarus]

As Lazarus felt the shift when Lucas moved closer, that familiar pull Lazarus felt towards Lucas only grew. The mention of the colt being sold off brought a ghost of a smile to his face, something in his chest tightening at the casual way Lucas said it. Lazarus truly was a selfish man being so jealous of the moments that passed him by without him.

Glad ya managed t' find someone t' take care of him then.

Someone pushed past with a shopping cart, forcing them even closer together for a moment. Lazarus didn't step back when they passed staying right where he was in Lucas's orbit, like some part of him was afraid that if he gave ground Lucas might disappear before his eyes.

Look, know ya probably got shoppin' t' finish, but… well would ya want t' grab coffee or somethin'? No pressure if ya'd rather not I just—

I missed you

—it'd be good t' hear how ya've been. Plus, don't have it with me but could tell ya how I managed t' figure the rifle out

[lucas-baird]

As they were pushed even closer, Lucas let out a breath. Shoulders dropping just enough to relax more than before. Staring up at the man like there weren’t other people around them shopping.

The mention of going for coffee had Lucas completely forgetting about the groceries he needed. Surely he could just come back afterward. He didn’t want to lose the opportunity to catch up with Lazarus, let alone let the man walk away from him.

“No no I—”

Don’t fuck up now.

“We coul’ go f’r coffee ‘r… th’ranch ain’t that far—“

Lucas huffed, glancing away with an awkward hand on his neck, rubbing up and down. Shrugging after a second, somewhat brushing off his own comment.

Inviting someone to your home that you hadn’t seen in months? Good job, dumbass.

“Don’t ‘ave t’go… coffee shop works.”

[lt-artificer-lazarus]

Ranch sounds good. Brilliant, even.

The words tumbled out faster than Lazarus could stop them, too eager, too honest. He tried to rein it back and clear his throat, but it was impossible with the way hope had already leaked into his voice.

If yer sure, I mean. Don't want t' impose or nothin'.

But even as he said it, there was no hiding the way his whole posture had shifted, the tension draining from his shoulders. Laz's fingers had finally uncurled in his pockets, and he was already half-turned toward Lucas like his body had made the decision before his brain caught up. The grocery shopping felt utterly irrelevant now, he could always come back later. None of it mattered compared to this.

Been wonderin' what the place looked like, actually. Always wished I could see it when ya used t' talk about it back in the workshop.

[lucas-baird]

A sigh of relief left Lucas at Lazarus’ words. The way the other seemed to answer without hesitation, agreeing to come to the ranch. A hint of a smile was starting to form, skin bunching up by his eyes and showing off his crows feet.

“Y’ain’t imposin’, ‘m happy y’want t’see th’ranch.”

For the first time in a while, Lucas was excited. He didn’t get to show people the ranch often, especially not old friends. He was proud of his home in ways he couldn’t express.

“Coul’ go after y’get done with shoppin’? I don’ want t’interrupt ya.”

[lt-artificer-lazarus]

Shoppin' can wait. Nothin' I need that can't be grabbed later.

The words coming out without hesitation. Lazarus pulled his hands from his pockets finally, one coming up to run through his hair to soothe the boyish nervousness that was building in his chest. Not that he could really help it, there was something about the man in front of him that soothed him like no other.

Lead the way, ayy? Can follow in my bike unless you've got things ya need t' grab first.

There was something hopeful in his expression now, unguarded in a way Lazarus rarely allowed himself to be. Like he was afraid if they didn't leave now, the moment might dissolve, and he'd find himself alone in the grocery aisle wondering if this had all been some daydream.

[lucas-baird]

“Shit ‘ere can wait.”

Lucas didn’t hesitate to leave his groceries behind, brushing a hand against Laz’s as he began to walk back to the front of the store. He wasn’t going to wait another moment.

The whole idea of Lazarus coming to his ranch had him excited and being excited wasn’t something he had felt in a long while.

As they approached the front sliding doors of the store, he turned around to face the other. One, to make sure Lazarus was there and actually following, but to also ask him a question.

“Y’want t’ride ‘n th’truck? Didn’t know wha’ y’were feelin’.”

[lt-artificer-lazarus]

Lazarus felt the brief contact of Lucas's hand against his, that fleeting touch sending a jolt through him that he tried not to show on his face. His fingers twitched with the urge to reach back, but he held himself in check as he followed without hesitation. Long strides easily keeping pace as they headed toward the front of the store. When Lucas turned to face him, Lazarus didn't even have to think about his answer.

Got the bike parked out front, but honestly? Rather ride with ya. Can text a friend nearby t' pick it up, don't even need t' wait.

The words came out easy, honest. None of that mattered compared to this. there was a moment's hesitation before his hand reached forward to catch Lucas's properly this time. Fingers wrapping around the other man's hand with a firm grip.

I'm not lettin' ya outta my sight now that I found ya again. So ya just lead the way, and I'll be right there with ya.

He said it with a slight grin, trying to play it off as lighthearted, but there was an unmistakable edge of sincerity underneath. His thumb brushed absently against Lucas's knuckles, a familiar gesture from all those times in the workshop when touch had been easier than words.

[lucas-baird]

Lucas froze when a hand wrapped with his own. Turning his head to look up at the man next to him. A deep weight of uncertainty being taken off of his shoulders, allowing him to breathe.

“To th’truck then.”

With a gentle tug, he pulled the other out to the parking lot.

As they approached the truck, he made sure he was walking in front of Lazarus. Rounding their strides over to the passenger side. Reaching in his pocket to unlock the truck, then opening the passenger door and turning to face Lazarus.

“In ya go.”

Giving the other man’s hand a squeeze, he let go. Letting Laz get into the truck and adjust seating if needed. Waiting until he knew the other was settled before shutting the passenger door. Making his way to the driver side and pulling himself in.

[lucas-baird]

[He materializes out of nowhere (did he sneak onto the ranch?) and holds out a wooden figure of a cowboy riding a horse.]

Now how did y’— wha’—?

[lucas-baird]

i’ll be yer farmhand, sir🥰

ain’t even gotta pay me

Now y’… mmh. What d’ya mean wit’ tha’…

[lucas-baird]

there’s so many ocs yall haven’t met and it eats at me cause i wanna throw them all at you all

[lucas-baird]

startin’ t’consider tha’ maybe I do need ranch hands…