Mikey

@stream-fire

X Men OC RP blog

607 posts

Name: Mikey Carl Strathbon

Birth Name: Jace Erik Lehnsherr-Cameron

Born: April 19th, 2000

Birth Mother: @mutantontheloose

Birth Father: Davis Cameron

Stepdad: @justawhitewolf

Adoptive Parents: James and Kai Strathbon (deceased)

Family: @just-a-fucking-civilian @they-call-me-birdsong @they-call-me-ricochet @themagneticbarnes @poor-lost-leo

Boyfriend: @marvel-medic

Powers: Energy manipulation and teleportation

Hobbies: surfing, music, true crime podcasts, cooking

Hey, I’m Mikey! I’ve just found my family!

I used to live in San Diego with my adoptive parents, until they died and I went looking for my birth mother.

Admin

Face claim: Charlie Rowe

Unless stated, all images are not mine

This blog is a rp blog for entertainment purposes only, hate will not be tolerated

#oc rp #oc intro post #x men oc #xmen oc #oc #pinned post #rp #banner and moodboard made by me #original character #original images not mine #x men

A few days after their lunch, Beau gets a text message from Em. He doesn’t recall giving her his number, before remembering that Mikey put them in a chat, so she evidently got it from there

Hey, Beau, it’s em! Ca va?

I wanted to offer if you want to come over for the afternoon? I get if it feels weird since Mikey’s busy so you’d be on your own probably, but Luna had a half day at work and Olive with school, and I figured I’d offer

Bonus, we have fresh cookies

Xoxo

@just-a-fucking-civilian

Beau gets the message on the way home from his shift. He smiles, and some nerves bubble up.

He takes a breath and types a reply.

Oui, ca va. Et toi? I’d love to come over, just let me run home and shower. Would you like me to bring anything?

Xoxo

He saves Em’s number properly, as he reaches the apartment building.

just-a-fucking-civilian

Tres bien, merci! And no need at all, we just did some shopping so everything is fully provisioned!

Em lives in a nice building, upper middle class easily. Beau can remember his fiance mentioning that her ex is wealthy, and left her in possibly an even more favorable situation. It’s got a doorman, and he passes nice amenities. Em lives in the penthouse of the lovely brick and glass building, and it’s impressive.

As he arrives he can hear laughter from inside, and the sounds of a familiar nursery rhyme, a baby bouncing song from France his mother used to sing

He smiles, the familiar song making him feel a little more relaxed. He knocks patiently, rocking back on his heels a little.

Despite what Em said, he picked up some chocolate and candy on his trip over.

A young woman opens the door with a smile, with wavy brown hair down her back and bright lavender eyes, smiling warmly.

“You must be Uncle Mikey’s dreamer boy?” She swings the door open, and the little girl on Em’s lap jumps up. She must be about three, racing up and hiding behind the younger woman’s leg, head peaking out curiously as Em smiles lovingly.

“Beau! It’s so good to see you — meet my eldest, our lovely Luna, my baby, Lucie.” She smiles proudly. “Olive said she wants to meet you, but she doesn’t get home for a bit”

“Uhh, well yeah, I guess I am.” He smiles at Luna.

“I’m Beau.”

He steps in a little and waves to Em.

“Hey, nice to see you too. That’s alright, I’d love to meet her too.”

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“I’m Luna,” she smiles. “Come in? We have tea and coffee and-”

“Luna, honey, it’s okay,” Em cuts in, gently touching her daughter’s shoulder. “Trust me, lovey. You aren’t with them anyone, remember? You can offer things but I promise, you don’t have to do any of that, okay? It’s okay to be nervous but you don’t have to panic, promise,” she murmurs, as Luna nods shyly

Beau smiles softly, shifting his body language.

“That’s kind of you to offer Luna. I had a coffee not long before the end of my shift. Would you like a chocolate?” He holds out the bag of treats, keeping a respectful distance of Luna’s space.

Luna softens, relaxing slowly. “I’d love one, thank you. What do you do for work?” She asks curiously, as they all move over to the couches

Beau sits carefully, after everyone else has sat.

“I’m a surgeon.” He smiles, “I specialised in cardio thoracic, I transferred to Metro-General.”

“That is… a lot of big words,” she smiles. “So, heart stuff? That’s pretty cool””

“Yes, sorry, heart stuff, lung stuff, chest stuff.” He smiles.

He places the chocolates on the coffee table.

“You do tattoos, yeah?”

CW: Child Abuse

“Like the people who fixed Lucie’s lung after The Reverend collapsed it by accident,” Luna hums, cuddling her little sister

“Yeah! I’ve been learning since I was twelve but I was just apprenticed, I got my license a few months ago”

“And is it okay now?” Beau asks, giving Lucie a smile.

“That’s awesome. Mikey said you’d done a couple of his, they’re amazing.”

“It is,” Luna confirms, grinning as Lucie comes up to Beau shyly and holds out a tangle toy she’d been messing with

“I did, we had a really fun time I think. I liked getting the chance to just chat and stuff, and I’m really proud. There some of my best work, I think”

Beau smiles at the little girl.

“Wow, that’s a cool tangle.” He speaks softly and gently.

“You should be really proud.” He smiles at Luna.

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As Lucie grins, the front door opens, and a teenage girl with warm brown skin appears, hands stuffed in a hoodie as she carefully puts her shoes away

When she spots Beau, she takes a deep breath and gives a little wave, then walks into the kitchen, giving little glances out of the open area above the counter while she finds a snack

Beau smiles and waves to her, returning to playing with Lucie.

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“How’s your new job been?” Em asks with a smile

“Busy, but I’m aiming for head of the department one day.” He smiles, as Lucie hands him a doll and he makes it dance for her.

“It’s definitely different living here.”

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“You’ll do amazing,” Em assured him, laughing softly as Lucie grins. “Yeah, it’s a unique kind of crazy here”

“Mmm, not surfing after a shift is probably what I miss most.”

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“We’ll go to New Jersey when it warms up, you can there,” Em smiles. “I grew up in Boston, but it’s still odd how different it is only a few hours away”

“It’s crazy.” He smiles back.

“Mikey’s trying to decorate the apartment and wedding plan. Still haven’t set a date but we’ve got a better idea of when at least. I’m trying to convince him to just do one thing at a time.”

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“Yeah, honestly with the genes in there I don’t think it’ll work,” Em chuckles. “I moved to New York for college, adopted two kids barely after graduating while in the middle of the chaotic start to my first serious and good relationship, running two theater programs and getting Leo through rehab with Mom and Dad. I think we’re incapable of picking one thing at a time”

“Wow, okay then. You’re as bad as each other.” He teases gently.

just-a-fucking-civilian

Em laughs. “Trust me, I know”

“Thank you, for inviting me over.”

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“Of course, I’m glad you decided to come.” She smiles as the girl from the kitchen wanders over tentatively, slowly sitting down next to Em

“Mikey said your aunt moved in next door to your parents?” He waits for the girl to initiate any contact, not wanting to make her uncomfortable.

“She sounds lovely.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“She did, she’s amazing. She’s sort of a variant of dad, she’s a blast. Both four to five times my age and also about my age, depending,” Em chuckles

“The super soldier thing really messes with age I guess.” He shrugs.

“So she’s both older than me and younger than me?”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“That and cryofreeze on and off for roughly a century,” she nods. “Yeah, basically”

“That’s going to take a while to wrap my head around.” He shakes his head a little.

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“Yeah, it does,” em chuckles

“People can be weird about age.”

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“And it’s definitely weirder when someone has two ages at once”

“Yeah, the cryo stuff came up a lot at medical school.” Beau still twirls the doll in his hands as Lucie scampers off looking for something.

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“What was medical school like?” The teen asks quietly, her voice tentative, as if she’s worried to make too much sound

“Hectic. A lot of the stereotypes are true, I lived off coffee and scrambled egg bagels most of the time. If anyone was asking for advice, I’d say it’s important that it’s something you are passionate about, have hobbies and things you enjoy away from study, and try to find a good mentor.”

He gives her a small smile, keeps his body language calm and open, speaks in a gentle, soothing tone.

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Olive nods quietly. “I think about being a nurse sometimes. Maybe pediatrics”

“Yeah? It’s an interesting part of medicine, and working with kids is a whole different experience. Sometimes I get called in to help.”

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“Yeah? Kids tend to be crazy… I remember I always was at the doctor’s, when I was able to go”

“There’s that, but also the medical and biological aspects are a little different too. Things can change so much faster.” Beau explains.

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“Yeah?”

“Yeah.” He smiles at her again.

“You know, there’s a work experience program if you’re ever interested.”

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Olive perks up. “Really?”

“Yeah! Obviously for privacy reasons there’s some things you can’t be involved in. But it’s a lot of behind the scenes stuff, how the hospital runs, what different jobs are.”

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Olive nods. “That sounds really interesting”

“How about I send Em the information and the supervisor’s contact details?” He offers.

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“Really? That would be amazing!”

“Not a problem, I can write your entry reference if you need.”

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“You… you probably shouldn’t. It’ll look bad for you when they get my background check,” Olive says softly

“The offer’s there if you need it.” He says gently, not pushing.

“I can grab the info on my next shift.” He smiles to Em, “I’ll text it to you.”

gladstone-girl-again

“Thank you,” she says softly.

When a timer goes off in the kitchen, she smiles. “My tea’s steeped… I’ll be right back”

He returns the smile warmly.

“Sure thing.”

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When she steps away, Em breaks into a grin. “You’re a magician, I swear,” she says softly. “That’s the most she’s talked all week”

“No magic, just practice I guess.” Beau smiles back.

“She seems like a great kid.”

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“Also I think just… everyone here knows where she came from. You talked with her. I think it helps,” Em smiles. “She is, she’s my cousin. Hitchhiked here from Arizona. She’s doing so well here”

“Wow, that’s a long way!” He blinks a little.

His phone buzzes and he smiles when he sees Mikey’s name.

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Yeah, she. Well, she approved the version I’m about to tel you, the rest is all her. She grew up in a trap house, with one of my aunts and an uncle and god knows who else. Her record is a mess because she was stealing food to eat and has a list of misdemeanors long enough to make Lucie into a mummy. She was born with a lot of vulnerabilities due to her mom’s addictions, and her past is something we have to fight every step,” Em explains

“But she’s also obviously more. She’s brilliant, if we can get around the record she could probably go to an ivy. She loves kids and wants to be a nurse or councilor, she loves drawing. She and Luna are thick as thieves, they’re practically sharing a room even though Olive has her own, but it’s more her own den. Shes amazing”

“I’m glad she has you guys.” He nods.

“I think she can do it, I think she’s a lot stronger than she believes.”

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“I think so too,” Em agrees. “She’s getting used to normal life, I think she’s loving having a big family. Especially since we encourage her to come and go as she likes”

“Independence and freedom of choice are so important.” Beau agrees.

His phone buzzes again.

“Mikes wants to know if you guys would like him to bring takeout over for dinner?”

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“As you can see, she’s definitely benefiting. She tends to come in and out or sit nearby whenever there’s people around. Honestly it makes me proud, that she’s learning to listen to herself.”

Em grins. “Yes, absolutely. Indian, maybe?”

“It’s awesome, and you should be proud of yourself too.” He smiles.

“I could absolutely smash a chicken madras.” He grins back and texts Mikey back.

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Aww, thank you”

Em smiles. “Lunita! Lucie! Olive! What do you want for Indian?” She calls out

Beau opens his notes app to type in all the orders to send to Mikey.

He grins as the girls come in, Lucie barrelling straight for Em’s legs.

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Em grins and squeals, picking Lucie up and air-planing her over her head as the toddler kicks and squeals happily. “Do you want samosas baby?” She coos. “You wanna have some samosas with us? And cheesy na’an?”

As Luna and Olive politely ask for their picks, Em adds on one or two appetizers to split amongst the group, grinning as Lucie climbs all over her

Beau grins, noting everything down.

“Alright, last call before I send it to Mikey!”

He watches Em and Lucie with a soft smile, something twisting in his chest.

“That’s everything, I think,” Luna grins, dragging Olive down onto the couch to tickle her

“Awesome!” He sends the list to Mikey, it buzzes shortly after.

“ETA one hour!” He grins.

“Want to play a board game?” Luna offers. “I just got one that I think could be fun”

“Sure!” He nods.

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Em sits down with them, pulling Lucie into her lap as they all go over the rules

Beau listens carefully, sitting between Luna and Em.

He takes his phone off vibrate in case he misses a call from Mikey.

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When Mikey arrives, he arrives to laughter, with his fiance laughing with his family as Em and Beau playfully bicker in French about a captured piece, and Luna and Olive giggle conspiratorially

“Hmm, my chaos senses are tingling!” Mikey grins, arms full of takeout bags.

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Em laughs, as Lucie runs at him eagerly she takes some of the bags off his hands. “Hey there, mon frere,” she smiles. “Come join?”

“Hey sis.” He smiles, watching Lucie carefully.

“What’s the game?”

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“Some sort of fantasy combat game where we’re all golems trying to protect our territory,” Em replies. “Which will now have to be put on hold” she adds intentionally, with a tone that sounds so much like Lina it’s impressive

The similarity strikes Mikey and he hides a snicker as the girls respond.

Beau gets up and helps Mikey with the food.

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Em smiles fondly, helping to set food out on the table as they all settle in

Mikey sits next to Beau and instinctively Beau leans over and kisses Mikey’s forehead.

Mikey goes a little pink and clears his throat.

“So, umm, everyone have a good day?”

Luna grins softly, whispering something to Olive that makes the younger girl blush a bit.

“I did, I had the day off so it was pretty calm”

“That’s good.” He nods, passing some rice along and helping Lucie get some samosas.

gladstone-girl-again

“And Mr. Kleiss told me about an internship program at the hospital,” Olive adds softly

“Just Beau is fine, Olive.” Beau smiles gently.

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“Okay, Mr- Beau,” Olive corrects shyly, smiling a little

Beau smiles and offers Olive the rice.

Mikey has a few bites of his food then asks Em.

“What do you think I should put in groomsmen boxes for Leo and Wyatt? I’ve looked online but it’s all alcohol based stuff.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

Em considers. “Mini Lego sets, maybe? They both like puzzles or making things, or if you wanted something a little nicer or more practical you could do like cufflinks or a lapel pin? That they can use at the wedding?”

“Yeah…good idea.” Mikey grins, tearing some na’an.

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Alternatively, you can just give them both nerf guns, say they’re your groomsmen, and let them loose in the yard?”

Mikey grins mischievously.

“Ooh that works!”

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Em laughs. “Look, I have no idea what they’d be fighting for but I say go for it either way”

Beau grins and casually wraps an arm around Mikey’s shoulders.

“Your family sounds wonderful.”

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“The are,” Olive replies softly

Beau smiles.

“I’m glad.”

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She reaches for a pitcher of water, refilling her glass and then Luna’s when she notices it’s empty. “Do you like cats?”

“I like animals.” He nods, “We have a puppy.”

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“Really? What kind?”

She grins shyly as a large cat walks into the room, a Mane Coon who is soon up on her lap and lazily purring, very much pleased. “This is my cat”

“Hey kitty.” Beau coos to the cat.

“Puddles is a cocker spaniel.”

gladstone-girl-again

The cat winds over, nudging at his hand. “This is EmmaL

Beau scratches behind the cat’s ears and coos lovingly in French.

“Uncle Mikey, does Babacia know you’re engaged yet?” Luna asks curiously

Mikey unconsciously shifts closer to Beau, and chews his lip.

“Not exactly.”

Luna nods. “Okay, I won’t say anything then”

Mikey gives her an appreciative smile, as Beau leans closer and kisses Mikey’s forehead again.

“You do need to talk to her, mon cœur.” He says gently.

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“She’ll be happy, don’t worry,” em murmurs. “Whenever you do it, she’ll be over the moon”

Mikey nods, twisting and fiddling with his fingers.

“Dunno why I’m nervy.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Hey, I get it. I was that way both with my engagement and my divorce,” Em smiles comfortingly, reaching for his hand. “Take all the time you need; we won’t snitch. I won’t even tell Leo”

“Thanks sis.” Mikey squeezes her hand with a smile.

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“Of course. You’re always safe here,” em smiles warmly

Wordlessly, Beau pulls a spiky turtle fidget from his pocket and puts it in Mikey’s hand. And Mikey digs his fingers in the spikes sighing a little in relief.

Beau rubs Mikey’s shoulders comfortingly.

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Wordlessly, Olive nudges over a weighted lap blanket that’s been sitting near where she’s sitting

Mikey curls closer to Beau, and pulls the blanket into his lap. He shoots Olive a grateful look.

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“Would you like me to talk, reassure, hug you, or just let it be a quiet moment?” Em asks gently

“Maybe a hug?” Mikey says softly

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“That I can do,” Em replies, standing and coming to hug him close

Mikey clings to her, curling in.

“I guess…I guess I don’t want Momma to think I’m leaving her? If that makes sense?” He mumbles into Em’s shoulder.

just-a-fucking-civilian

“I get it,” she assures him. “But Mikey… I promise, she won’t. You won’t magically stop seeing her because you’re getting married. You’ll still be at family dinners and stopping by and she’ll still come to important stuff”

He nods.

“Yeah…yeah I know.” He cuddles in a little more. “Thanks fox.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Always,” she smiles, cuddling in alongside him

“I have a question…” Beau says quietly.

“What’s the animal thing?”

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“Yeah?” Em asks

She chuckles softly. “Mama nicknamed us all after different animals in Polish. I’m her little fox, Leo is mouse, and so on. Usually whatever animal we remind her of most; for me and Leo it’s whatever we were most like when they met us. Leo was very timid, for example”

“Ohh, I understand.” He nods.

“I think your mama and my mémé would get along.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Yeah?” Em smiles

“They sound very similar, giant hearts, fiercely protective, always trying to feed their family.” He smiles back.

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“That’s a solid description for sure,” Em chuckles

Mikey smiles.

“Does sound like momma.”

After a family Sunday lunch, where Mikey had brought Beau and officially announced their engagement, Mikey catches Leo on the porch.

“Hey lil brother.” Mikey grins, squeezing him into a hug.

“I have something for you.”

@stream-fire

“Hey, Mikey- and congrats again,” Leo smiles, hugging him back. “Yeah?”

Mikey hands him a box. Inside is a vintage looking lapel pin.

“I’d really love for you to be my best man Leo.”

Leo gasps, grinning as he takes it. “It’s- you- oh I’d love to! I’ll do the best job, I’m so happy for you! And your fiance is so great!”

He grins, squeezing Leo’s shoulder.

“Thanks Lo.”

Mikey looks over to where Novie has locked Beau into an intense discussion about med school, a lovesick smile washes over him.

“Yeah, he’s pretty special.”

“Always,” he smiles

“You’re adorable. And I can tell,” Leo chuckles

Mikey blushes a little.

After a family Sunday lunch, where Mikey had brought Beau and officially announced their engagement, Mikey catches Leo on the porch.

“Hey lil brother.” Mikey grins, squeezing him into a hug.

“I have something for you.”

@stream-fire

“Hey, Mikey- and congrats again,” Leo smiles, hugging him back. “Yeah?”

Mikey hands him a box. Inside is a vintage looking lapel pin.

“I’d really love for you to be my best man Leo.”

Leo gasps, grinning as he takes it. “It’s- you- oh I’d love to! I’ll do the best job, I’m so happy for you! And your fiance is so great!”

He grins, squeezing Leo’s shoulder.

“Thanks Lo.”

Mikey looks over to where Novie has locked Beau into an intense discussion about med school, a lovesick smile washes over him.

“Yeah, he’s pretty special.”

After a family Sunday lunch, where Mikey had brought Beau and officially announced their engagement, Mikey catches Leo on the porch.

“Hey lil brother.” Mikey grins, squeezing him into a hug.

“I have something for you.”

@stream-fire

“Hey, Mikey- and congrats again,” Leo smiles, hugging him back. “Yeah?”

Mikey hands him a box. Inside is a vintage looking lapel pin.

“I’d really love for you to be my best man Leo.”

A few days after their lunch, Beau gets a text message from Em. He doesn’t recall giving her his number, before remembering that Mikey put them in a chat, so she evidently got it from there

Hey, Beau, it’s em! Ca va?

I wanted to offer if you want to come over for the afternoon? I get if it feels weird since Mikey’s busy so you’d be on your own probably, but Luna had a half day at work and Olive with school, and I figured I’d offer

Bonus, we have fresh cookies

Xoxo

@just-a-fucking-civilian

Beau gets the message on the way home from his shift. He smiles, and some nerves bubble up.

He takes a breath and types a reply.

Oui, ca va. Et toi? I’d love to come over, just let me run home and shower. Would you like me to bring anything?

Xoxo

He saves Em’s number properly, as he reaches the apartment building.

just-a-fucking-civilian

Tres bien, merci! And no need at all, we just did some shopping so everything is fully provisioned!

Em lives in a nice building, upper middle class easily. Beau can remember his fiance mentioning that her ex is wealthy, and left her in possibly an even more favorable situation. It’s got a doorman, and he passes nice amenities. Em lives in the penthouse of the lovely brick and glass building, and it’s impressive.

As he arrives he can hear laughter from inside, and the sounds of a familiar nursery rhyme, a baby bouncing song from France his mother used to sing

He smiles, the familiar song making him feel a little more relaxed. He knocks patiently, rocking back on his heels a little.

Despite what Em said, he picked up some chocolate and candy on his trip over.

A young woman opens the door with a smile, with wavy brown hair down her back and bright lavender eyes, smiling warmly.

“You must be Uncle Mikey’s dreamer boy?” She swings the door open, and the little girl on Em’s lap jumps up. She must be about three, racing up and hiding behind the younger woman’s leg, head peaking out curiously as Em smiles lovingly.

“Beau! It’s so good to see you — meet my eldest, our lovely Luna, my baby, Lucie.” She smiles proudly. “Olive said she wants to meet you, but she doesn’t get home for a bit”

“Uhh, well yeah, I guess I am.” He smiles at Luna.

“I’m Beau.”

He steps in a little and waves to Em.

“Hey, nice to see you too. That’s alright, I’d love to meet her too.”

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“I’m Luna,” she smiles. “Come in? We have tea and coffee and-”

“Luna, honey, it’s okay,” Em cuts in, gently touching her daughter’s shoulder. “Trust me, lovey. You aren’t with them anyone, remember? You can offer things but I promise, you don’t have to do any of that, okay? It’s okay to be nervous but you don’t have to panic, promise,” she murmurs, as Luna nods shyly

Beau smiles softly, shifting his body language.

“That’s kind of you to offer Luna. I had a coffee not long before the end of my shift. Would you like a chocolate?” He holds out the bag of treats, keeping a respectful distance of Luna’s space.

Luna softens, relaxing slowly. “I’d love one, thank you. What do you do for work?” She asks curiously, as they all move over to the couches

Beau sits carefully, after everyone else has sat.

“I’m a surgeon.” He smiles, “I specialised in cardio thoracic, I transferred to Metro-General.”

“That is… a lot of big words,” she smiles. “So, heart stuff? That’s pretty cool””

“Yes, sorry, heart stuff, lung stuff, chest stuff.” He smiles.

He places the chocolates on the coffee table.

“You do tattoos, yeah?”

CW: Child Abuse

“Like the people who fixed Lucie’s lung after The Reverend collapsed it by accident,” Luna hums, cuddling her little sister

“Yeah! I’ve been learning since I was twelve but I was just apprenticed, I got my license a few months ago”

“And is it okay now?” Beau asks, giving Lucie a smile.

“That’s awesome. Mikey said you’d done a couple of his, they’re amazing.”

“It is,” Luna confirms, grinning as Lucie comes up to Beau shyly and holds out a tangle toy she’d been messing with

“I did, we had a really fun time I think. I liked getting the chance to just chat and stuff, and I’m really proud. There some of my best work, I think”

Beau smiles at the little girl.

“Wow, that’s a cool tangle.” He speaks softly and gently.

“You should be really proud.” He smiles at Luna.

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As Lucie grins, the front door opens, and a teenage girl with warm brown skin appears, hands stuffed in a hoodie as she carefully puts her shoes away

When she spots Beau, she takes a deep breath and gives a little wave, then walks into the kitchen, giving little glances out of the open area above the counter while she finds a snack

Beau smiles and waves to her, returning to playing with Lucie.

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“How’s your new job been?” Em asks with a smile

“Busy, but I’m aiming for head of the department one day.” He smiles, as Lucie hands him a doll and he makes it dance for her.

“It’s definitely different living here.”

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“You’ll do amazing,” Em assured him, laughing softly as Lucie grins. “Yeah, it’s a unique kind of crazy here”

“Mmm, not surfing after a shift is probably what I miss most.”

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“We’ll go to New Jersey when it warms up, you can there,” Em smiles. “I grew up in Boston, but it’s still odd how different it is only a few hours away”

“It’s crazy.” He smiles back.

“Mikey’s trying to decorate the apartment and wedding plan. Still haven’t set a date but we’ve got a better idea of when at least. I’m trying to convince him to just do one thing at a time.”

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“Yeah, honestly with the genes in there I don’t think it’ll work,” Em chuckles. “I moved to New York for college, adopted two kids barely after graduating while in the middle of the chaotic start to my first serious and good relationship, running two theater programs and getting Leo through rehab with Mom and Dad. I think we’re incapable of picking one thing at a time”

“Wow, okay then. You’re as bad as each other.” He teases gently.

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Em laughs. “Trust me, I know”

“Thank you, for inviting me over.”

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“Of course, I’m glad you decided to come.” She smiles as the girl from the kitchen wanders over tentatively, slowly sitting down next to Em

“Mikey said your aunt moved in next door to your parents?” He waits for the girl to initiate any contact, not wanting to make her uncomfortable.

“She sounds lovely.”

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“She did, she’s amazing. She’s sort of a variant of dad, she’s a blast. Both four to five times my age and also about my age, depending,” Em chuckles

“The super soldier thing really messes with age I guess.” He shrugs.

“So she’s both older than me and younger than me?”

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“That and cryofreeze on and off for roughly a century,” she nods. “Yeah, basically”

“That’s going to take a while to wrap my head around.” He shakes his head a little.

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“Yeah, it does,” em chuckles

“People can be weird about age.”

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“And it’s definitely weirder when someone has two ages at once”

“Yeah, the cryo stuff came up a lot at medical school.” Beau still twirls the doll in his hands as Lucie scampers off looking for something.

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“What was medical school like?” The teen asks quietly, her voice tentative, as if she’s worried to make too much sound

“Hectic. A lot of the stereotypes are true, I lived off coffee and scrambled egg bagels most of the time. If anyone was asking for advice, I’d say it’s important that it’s something you are passionate about, have hobbies and things you enjoy away from study, and try to find a good mentor.”

He gives her a small smile, keeps his body language calm and open, speaks in a gentle, soothing tone.

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Olive nods quietly. “I think about being a nurse sometimes. Maybe pediatrics”

“Yeah? It’s an interesting part of medicine, and working with kids is a whole different experience. Sometimes I get called in to help.”

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“Yeah? Kids tend to be crazy… I remember I always was at the doctor’s, when I was able to go”

“There’s that, but also the medical and biological aspects are a little different too. Things can change so much faster.” Beau explains.

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“Yeah?”

“Yeah.” He smiles at her again.

“You know, there’s a work experience program if you’re ever interested.”

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Olive perks up. “Really?”

“Yeah! Obviously for privacy reasons there’s some things you can’t be involved in. But it’s a lot of behind the scenes stuff, how the hospital runs, what different jobs are.”

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Olive nods. “That sounds really interesting”

“How about I send Em the information and the supervisor’s contact details?” He offers.

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“Really? That would be amazing!”

“Not a problem, I can write your entry reference if you need.”

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“You… you probably shouldn’t. It’ll look bad for you when they get my background check,” Olive says softly

“The offer’s there if you need it.” He says gently, not pushing.

“I can grab the info on my next shift.” He smiles to Em, “I’ll text it to you.”

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“Thank you,” she says softly.

When a timer goes off in the kitchen, she smiles. “My tea’s steeped… I’ll be right back”

He returns the smile warmly.

“Sure thing.”

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When she steps away, Em breaks into a grin. “You’re a magician, I swear,” she says softly. “That’s the most she’s talked all week”

“No magic, just practice I guess.” Beau smiles back.

“She seems like a great kid.”

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“Also I think just… everyone here knows where she came from. You talked with her. I think it helps,” Em smiles. “She is, she’s my cousin. Hitchhiked here from Arizona. She’s doing so well here”

“Wow, that’s a long way!” He blinks a little.

His phone buzzes and he smiles when he sees Mikey’s name.

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“Yeah, she. Well, she approved the version I’m about to tel you, the rest is all her. She grew up in a trap house, with one of my aunts and an uncle and god knows who else. Her record is a mess because she was stealing food to eat and has a list of misdemeanors long enough to make Lucie into a mummy. She was born with a lot of vulnerabilities due to her mom’s addictions, and her past is something we have to fight every step,” Em explains

“But she’s also obviously more. She’s brilliant, if we can get around the record she could probably go to an ivy. She loves kids and wants to be a nurse or councilor, she loves drawing. She and Luna are thick as thieves, they’re practically sharing a room even though Olive has her own, but it’s more her own den. Shes amazing”

“I’m glad she has you guys.” He nods.

“I think she can do it, I think she’s a lot stronger than she believes.”

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“I think so too,” Em agrees. “She’s getting used to normal life, I think she’s loving having a big family. Especially since we encourage her to come and go as she likes”

“Independence and freedom of choice are so important.” Beau agrees.

His phone buzzes again.

“Mikes wants to know if you guys would like him to bring takeout over for dinner?”

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“As you can see, she’s definitely benefiting. She tends to come in and out or sit nearby whenever there’s people around. Honestly it makes me proud, that she’s learning to listen to herself.”

Em grins. “Yes, absolutely. Indian, maybe?”

“It’s awesome, and you should be proud of yourself too.” He smiles.

“I could absolutely smash a chicken madras.” He grins back and texts Mikey back.

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“Aww, thank you”

Em smiles. “Lunita! Lucie! Olive! What do you want for Indian?” She calls out

Beau opens his notes app to type in all the orders to send to Mikey.

He grins as the girls come in, Lucie barrelling straight for Em’s legs.

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Em grins and squeals, picking Lucie up and air-planing her over her head as the toddler kicks and squeals happily. “Do you want samosas baby?” She coos. “You wanna have some samosas with us? And cheesy na’an?”

As Luna and Olive politely ask for their picks, Em adds on one or two appetizers to split amongst the group, grinning as Lucie climbs all over her

Beau grins, noting everything down.

“Alright, last call before I send it to Mikey!”

He watches Em and Lucie with a soft smile, something twisting in his chest.

“That’s everything, I think,” Luna grins, dragging Olive down onto the couch to tickle her

“Awesome!” He sends the list to Mikey, it buzzes shortly after.

“ETA one hour!” He grins.

“Want to play a board game?” Luna offers. “I just got one that I think could be fun”

“Sure!” He nods.

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Em sits down with them, pulling Lucie into her lap as they all go over the rules

Beau listens carefully, sitting between Luna and Em.

He takes his phone off vibrate in case he misses a call from Mikey.

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When Mikey arrives, he arrives to laughter, with his fiance laughing with his family as Em and Beau playfully bicker in French about a captured piece, and Luna and Olive giggle conspiratorially

“Hmm, my chaos senses are tingling!” Mikey grins, arms full of takeout bags.

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Em laughs, as Lucie runs at him eagerly she takes some of the bags off his hands. “Hey there, mon frere,” she smiles. “Come join?”

“Hey sis.” He smiles, watching Lucie carefully.

“What’s the game?”

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“Some sort of fantasy combat game where we’re all golems trying to protect our territory,” Em replies. “Which will now have to be put on hold” she adds intentionally, with a tone that sounds so much like Lina it’s impressive

The similarity strikes Mikey and he hides a snicker as the girls respond.

Beau gets up and helps Mikey with the food.

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Em smiles fondly, helping to set food out on the table as they all settle in

Mikey sits next to Beau and instinctively Beau leans over and kisses Mikey’s forehead.

Mikey goes a little pink and clears his throat.

“So, umm, everyone have a good day?”

Luna grins softly, whispering something to Olive that makes the younger girl blush a bit.

“I did, I had the day off so it was pretty calm”

“That’s good.” He nods, passing some rice along and helping Lucie get some samosas.

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“And Mr. Kleiss told me about an internship program at the hospital,” Olive adds softly

“Just Beau is fine, Olive.” Beau smiles gently.

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“Okay, Mr- Beau,” Olive corrects shyly, smiling a little

Beau smiles and offers Olive the rice.

Mikey has a few bites of his food then asks Em.

“What do you think I should put in groomsmen boxes for Leo and Wyatt? I’ve looked online but it’s all alcohol based stuff.”

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Em considers. “Mini Lego sets, maybe? They both like puzzles or making things, or if you wanted something a little nicer or more practical you could do like cufflinks or a lapel pin? That they can use at the wedding?”

“Yeah…good idea.” Mikey grins, tearing some na’an.

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“Alternatively, you can just give them both nerf guns, say they’re your groomsmen, and let them loose in the yard?”

Mikey grins mischievously.

“Ooh that works!”

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Em laughs. “Look, I have no idea what they’d be fighting for but I say go for it either way”

Beau grins and casually wraps an arm around Mikey’s shoulders.

“Your family sounds wonderful.”

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“The are,” Olive replies softly

Beau smiles.

“I’m glad.”

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She reaches for a pitcher of water, refilling her glass and then Luna’s when she notices it’s empty. “Do you like cats?”

“I like animals.” He nods, “We have a puppy.”

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“Really? What kind?”

She grins shyly as a large cat walks into the room, a Mane Coon who is soon up on her lap and lazily purring, very much pleased. “This is my cat”

“Hey kitty.” Beau coos to the cat.

“Puddles is a cocker spaniel.”

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The cat winds over, nudging at his hand. “This is EmmaL

Beau scratches behind the cat’s ears and coos lovingly in French.

“Uncle Mikey, does Babacia know you’re engaged yet?” Luna asks curiously

Mikey unconsciously shifts closer to Beau, and chews his lip.

“Not exactly.”

Luna nods. “Okay, I won’t say anything then”

Mikey gives her an appreciative smile, as Beau leans closer and kisses Mikey’s forehead again.

“You do need to talk to her, mon cœur.” He says gently.

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“She’ll be happy, don’t worry,” em murmurs. “Whenever you do it, she’ll be over the moon”

Mikey nods, twisting and fiddling with his fingers.

“Dunno why I’m nervy.”

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“Hey, I get it. I was that way both with my engagement and my divorce,” Em smiles comfortingly, reaching for his hand. “Take all the time you need; we won’t snitch. I won’t even tell Leo”

“Thanks sis.” Mikey squeezes her hand with a smile.

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“Of course. You’re always safe here,” em smiles warmly

Wordlessly, Beau pulls a spiky turtle fidget from his pocket and puts it in Mikey’s hand. And Mikey digs his fingers in the spikes sighing a little in relief.

Beau rubs Mikey’s shoulders comfortingly.

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Wordlessly, Olive nudges over a weighted lap blanket that’s been sitting near where she’s sitting

Mikey curls closer to Beau, and pulls the blanket into his lap. He shoots Olive a grateful look.

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“Would you like me to talk, reassure, hug you, or just let it be a quiet moment?” Em asks gently

“Maybe a hug?” Mikey says softly

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“That I can do,” Em replies, standing and coming to hug him close

Mikey clings to her, curling in.

“I guess…I guess I don’t want Momma to think I’m leaving her? If that makes sense?” He mumbles into Em’s shoulder.

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“I get it,” she assures him. “But Mikey… I promise, she won’t. You won’t magically stop seeing her because you’re getting married. You’ll still be at family dinners and stopping by and she’ll still come to important stuff”

He nods.

“Yeah…yeah I know.” He cuddles in a little more. “Thanks fox.”

A few days after their lunch, Beau gets a text message from Em. He doesn’t recall giving her his number, before remembering that Mikey put them in a chat, so she evidently got it from there

Hey, Beau, it’s em! Ca va?

I wanted to offer if you want to come over for the afternoon? I get if it feels weird since Mikey’s busy so you’d be on your own probably, but Luna had a half day at work and Olive with school, and I figured I’d offer

Bonus, we have fresh cookies

Xoxo

@just-a-fucking-civilian

Beau gets the message on the way home from his shift. He smiles, and some nerves bubble up.

He takes a breath and types a reply.

Oui, ca va. Et toi? I’d love to come over, just let me run home and shower. Would you like me to bring anything?

Xoxo

He saves Em’s number properly, as he reaches the apartment building.

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Tres bien, merci! And no need at all, we just did some shopping so everything is fully provisioned!

Em lives in a nice building, upper middle class easily. Beau can remember his fiance mentioning that her ex is wealthy, and left her in possibly an even more favorable situation. It’s got a doorman, and he passes nice amenities. Em lives in the penthouse of the lovely brick and glass building, and it’s impressive.

As he arrives he can hear laughter from inside, and the sounds of a familiar nursery rhyme, a baby bouncing song from France his mother used to sing

He smiles, the familiar song making him feel a little more relaxed. He knocks patiently, rocking back on his heels a little.

Despite what Em said, he picked up some chocolate and candy on his trip over.

A young woman opens the door with a smile, with wavy brown hair down her back and bright lavender eyes, smiling warmly.

“You must be Uncle Mikey’s dreamer boy?” She swings the door open, and the little girl on Em’s lap jumps up. She must be about three, racing up and hiding behind the younger woman’s leg, head peaking out curiously as Em smiles lovingly.

“Beau! It’s so good to see you — meet my eldest, our lovely Luna, my baby, Lucie.” She smiles proudly. “Olive said she wants to meet you, but she doesn’t get home for a bit”

“Uhh, well yeah, I guess I am.” He smiles at Luna.

“I’m Beau.”

He steps in a little and waves to Em.

“Hey, nice to see you too. That’s alright, I’d love to meet her too.”

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“I’m Luna,” she smiles. “Come in? We have tea and coffee and-”

“Luna, honey, it’s okay,” Em cuts in, gently touching her daughter’s shoulder. “Trust me, lovey. You aren’t with them anyone, remember? You can offer things but I promise, you don’t have to do any of that, okay? It’s okay to be nervous but you don’t have to panic, promise,” she murmurs, as Luna nods shyly

Beau smiles softly, shifting his body language.

“That’s kind of you to offer Luna. I had a coffee not long before the end of my shift. Would you like a chocolate?” He holds out the bag of treats, keeping a respectful distance of Luna’s space.

Luna softens, relaxing slowly. “I’d love one, thank you. What do you do for work?” She asks curiously, as they all move over to the couches

Beau sits carefully, after everyone else has sat.

“I’m a surgeon.” He smiles, “I specialised in cardio thoracic, I transferred to Metro-General.”

“That is… a lot of big words,” she smiles. “So, heart stuff? That’s pretty cool””

“Yes, sorry, heart stuff, lung stuff, chest stuff.” He smiles.

He places the chocolates on the coffee table.

“You do tattoos, yeah?”

CW: Child Abuse

“Like the people who fixed Lucie’s lung after The Reverend collapsed it by accident,” Luna hums, cuddling her little sister

“Yeah! I’ve been learning since I was twelve but I was just apprenticed, I got my license a few months ago”

“And is it okay now?” Beau asks, giving Lucie a smile.

“That’s awesome. Mikey said you’d done a couple of his, they’re amazing.”

“It is,” Luna confirms, grinning as Lucie comes up to Beau shyly and holds out a tangle toy she’d been messing with

“I did, we had a really fun time I think. I liked getting the chance to just chat and stuff, and I’m really proud. There some of my best work, I think”

Beau smiles at the little girl.

“Wow, that’s a cool tangle.” He speaks softly and gently.

“You should be really proud.” He smiles at Luna.

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As Lucie grins, the front door opens, and a teenage girl with warm brown skin appears, hands stuffed in a hoodie as she carefully puts her shoes away

When she spots Beau, she takes a deep breath and gives a little wave, then walks into the kitchen, giving little glances out of the open area above the counter while she finds a snack

Beau smiles and waves to her, returning to playing with Lucie.

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“How’s your new job been?” Em asks with a smile

“Busy, but I’m aiming for head of the department one day.” He smiles, as Lucie hands him a doll and he makes it dance for her.

“It’s definitely different living here.”

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“You’ll do amazing,” Em assured him, laughing softly as Lucie grins. “Yeah, it’s a unique kind of crazy here”

“Mmm, not surfing after a shift is probably what I miss most.”

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“We’ll go to New Jersey when it warms up, you can there,” Em smiles. “I grew up in Boston, but it’s still odd how different it is only a few hours away”

“It’s crazy.” He smiles back.

“Mikey’s trying to decorate the apartment and wedding plan. Still haven’t set a date but we’ve got a better idea of when at least. I’m trying to convince him to just do one thing at a time.”

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“Yeah, honestly with the genes in there I don’t think it’ll work,” Em chuckles. “I moved to New York for college, adopted two kids barely after graduating while in the middle of the chaotic start to my first serious and good relationship, running two theater programs and getting Leo through rehab with Mom and Dad. I think we’re incapable of picking one thing at a time”

“Wow, okay then. You’re as bad as each other.” He teases gently.

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Em laughs. “Trust me, I know”

“Thank you, for inviting me over.”

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“Of course, I’m glad you decided to come.” She smiles as the girl from the kitchen wanders over tentatively, slowly sitting down next to Em

“Mikey said your aunt moved in next door to your parents?” He waits for the girl to initiate any contact, not wanting to make her uncomfortable.

“She sounds lovely.”

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“She did, she’s amazing. She’s sort of a variant of dad, she’s a blast. Both four to five times my age and also about my age, depending,” Em chuckles

“The super soldier thing really messes with age I guess.” He shrugs.

“So she’s both older than me and younger than me?”

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“That and cryofreeze on and off for roughly a century,” she nods. “Yeah, basically”

“That’s going to take a while to wrap my head around.” He shakes his head a little.

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“Yeah, it does,” em chuckles

“People can be weird about age.”

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“And it’s definitely weirder when someone has two ages at once”

“Yeah, the cryo stuff came up a lot at medical school.” Beau still twirls the doll in his hands as Lucie scampers off looking for something.

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“What was medical school like?” The teen asks quietly, her voice tentative, as if she’s worried to make too much sound

“Hectic. A lot of the stereotypes are true, I lived off coffee and scrambled egg bagels most of the time. If anyone was asking for advice, I’d say it’s important that it’s something you are passionate about, have hobbies and things you enjoy away from study, and try to find a good mentor.”

He gives her a small smile, keeps his body language calm and open, speaks in a gentle, soothing tone.

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Olive nods quietly. “I think about being a nurse sometimes. Maybe pediatrics”

“Yeah? It’s an interesting part of medicine, and working with kids is a whole different experience. Sometimes I get called in to help.”

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“Yeah? Kids tend to be crazy… I remember I always was at the doctor’s, when I was able to go”

“There’s that, but also the medical and biological aspects are a little different too. Things can change so much faster.” Beau explains.

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“Yeah?”

“Yeah.” He smiles at her again.

“You know, there’s a work experience program if you’re ever interested.”

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Olive perks up. “Really?”

“Yeah! Obviously for privacy reasons there’s some things you can’t be involved in. But it’s a lot of behind the scenes stuff, how the hospital runs, what different jobs are.”

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Olive nods. “That sounds really interesting”

“How about I send Em the information and the supervisor’s contact details?” He offers.

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“Really? That would be amazing!”

“Not a problem, I can write your entry reference if you need.”

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“You… you probably shouldn’t. It’ll look bad for you when they get my background check,” Olive says softly

“The offer’s there if you need it.” He says gently, not pushing.

“I can grab the info on my next shift.” He smiles to Em, “I’ll text it to you.”

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“Thank you,” she says softly.

When a timer goes off in the kitchen, she smiles. “My tea’s steeped… I’ll be right back”

He returns the smile warmly.

“Sure thing.”

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When she steps away, Em breaks into a grin. “You’re a magician, I swear,” she says softly. “That’s the most she’s talked all week”

“No magic, just practice I guess.” Beau smiles back.

“She seems like a great kid.”

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“Also I think just… everyone here knows where she came from. You talked with her. I think it helps,” Em smiles. “She is, she’s my cousin. Hitchhiked here from Arizona. She’s doing so well here”

“Wow, that’s a long way!” He blinks a little.

His phone buzzes and he smiles when he sees Mikey’s name.

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“Yeah, she. Well, she approved the version I’m about to tel you, the rest is all her. She grew up in a trap house, with one of my aunts and an uncle and god knows who else. Her record is a mess because she was stealing food to eat and has a list of misdemeanors long enough to make Lucie into a mummy. She was born with a lot of vulnerabilities due to her mom’s addictions, and her past is something we have to fight every step,” Em explains

“But she’s also obviously more. She’s brilliant, if we can get around the record she could probably go to an ivy. She loves kids and wants to be a nurse or councilor, she loves drawing. She and Luna are thick as thieves, they’re practically sharing a room even though Olive has her own, but it’s more her own den. Shes amazing”

“I’m glad she has you guys.” He nods.

“I think she can do it, I think she’s a lot stronger than she believes.”

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“I think so too,” Em agrees. “She’s getting used to normal life, I think she’s loving having a big family. Especially since we encourage her to come and go as she likes”

“Independence and freedom of choice are so important.” Beau agrees.

His phone buzzes again.

“Mikes wants to know if you guys would like him to bring takeout over for dinner?”

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“As you can see, she’s definitely benefiting. She tends to come in and out or sit nearby whenever there’s people around. Honestly it makes me proud, that she’s learning to listen to herself.”

Em grins. “Yes, absolutely. Indian, maybe?”

“It’s awesome, and you should be proud of yourself too.” He smiles.

“I could absolutely smash a chicken madras.” He grins back and texts Mikey back.

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“Aww, thank you”

Em smiles. “Lunita! Lucie! Olive! What do you want for Indian?” She calls out

Beau opens his notes app to type in all the orders to send to Mikey.

He grins as the girls come in, Lucie barrelling straight for Em’s legs.

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Em grins and squeals, picking Lucie up and air-planing her over her head as the toddler kicks and squeals happily. “Do you want samosas baby?” She coos. “You wanna have some samosas with us? And cheesy na’an?”

As Luna and Olive politely ask for their picks, Em adds on one or two appetizers to split amongst the group, grinning as Lucie climbs all over her

Beau grins, noting everything down.

“Alright, last call before I send it to Mikey!”

He watches Em and Lucie with a soft smile, something twisting in his chest.

“That’s everything, I think,” Luna grins, dragging Olive down onto the couch to tickle her

“Awesome!” He sends the list to Mikey, it buzzes shortly after.

“ETA one hour!” He grins.

“Want to play a board game?” Luna offers. “I just got one that I think could be fun”

“Sure!” He nods.

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Em sits down with them, pulling Lucie into her lap as they all go over the rules

Beau listens carefully, sitting between Luna and Em.

He takes his phone off vibrate in case he misses a call from Mikey.

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When Mikey arrives, he arrives to laughter, with his fiance laughing with his family as Em and Beau playfully bicker in French about a captured piece, and Luna and Olive giggle conspiratorially

“Hmm, my chaos senses are tingling!” Mikey grins, arms full of takeout bags.

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Em laughs, as Lucie runs at him eagerly she takes some of the bags off his hands. “Hey there, mon frere,” she smiles. “Come join?”

“Hey sis.” He smiles, watching Lucie carefully.

“What’s the game?”

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“Some sort of fantasy combat game where we’re all golems trying to protect our territory,” Em replies. “Which will now have to be put on hold” she adds intentionally, with a tone that sounds so much like Lina it’s impressive

The similarity strikes Mikey and he hides a snicker as the girls respond.

Beau gets up and helps Mikey with the food.

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Em smiles fondly, helping to set food out on the table as they all settle in

Mikey sits next to Beau and instinctively Beau leans over and kisses Mikey’s forehead.

Mikey goes a little pink and clears his throat.

“So, umm, everyone have a good day?”

Luna grins softly, whispering something to Olive that makes the younger girl blush a bit.

“I did, I had the day off so it was pretty calm”

“That’s good.” He nods, passing some rice along and helping Lucie get some samosas.

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“And Mr. Kleiss told me about an internship program at the hospital,” Olive adds softly

“Just Beau is fine, Olive.” Beau smiles gently.

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“Okay, Mr- Beau,” Olive corrects shyly, smiling a little

Beau smiles and offers Olive the rice.

Mikey has a few bites of his food then asks Em.

“What do you think I should put in groomsmen boxes for Leo and Wyatt? I’ve looked online but it’s all alcohol based stuff.”

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Em considers. “Mini Lego sets, maybe? They both like puzzles or making things, or if you wanted something a little nicer or more practical you could do like cufflinks or a lapel pin? That they can use at the wedding?”

“Yeah…good idea.” Mikey grins, tearing some na’an.

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“Alternatively, you can just give them both nerf guns, say they’re your groomsmen, and let them loose in the yard?”

Mikey grins mischievously.

“Ooh that works!”

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Em laughs. “Look, I have no idea what they’d be fighting for but I say go for it either way”

Beau grins and casually wraps an arm around Mikey’s shoulders.

“Your family sounds wonderful.”

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“The are,” Olive replies softly

Beau smiles.

“I’m glad.”

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She reaches for a pitcher of water, refilling her glass and then Luna’s when she notices it’s empty. “Do you like cats?”

“I like animals.” He nods, “We have a puppy.”

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“Really? What kind?”

She grins shyly as a large cat walks into the room, a Mane Coon who is soon up on her lap and lazily purring, very much pleased. “This is my cat”

“Hey kitty.” Beau coos to the cat.

“Puddles is a cocker spaniel.”

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The cat winds over, nudging at his hand. “This is EmmaL

Beau scratches behind the cat’s ears and coos lovingly in French.

“Uncle Mikey, does Babacia know you’re engaged yet?” Luna asks curiously

Mikey unconsciously shifts closer to Beau, and chews his lip.

“Not exactly.”

Luna nods. “Okay, I won’t say anything then”

Mikey gives her an appreciative smile, as Beau leans closer and kisses Mikey’s forehead again.

“You do need to talk to her, mon cœur.” He says gently.

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“She’ll be happy, don’t worry,” em murmurs. “Whenever you do it, she’ll be over the moon”

Mikey nods, twisting and fiddling with his fingers.

“Dunno why I’m nervy.”

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“Hey, I get it. I was that way both with my engagement and my divorce,” Em smiles comfortingly, reaching for his hand. “Take all the time you need; we won’t snitch. I won’t even tell Leo”

“Thanks sis.” Mikey squeezes her hand with a smile.

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“Of course. You’re always safe here,” em smiles warmly

Wordlessly, Beau pulls a spiky turtle fidget from his pocket and puts it in Mikey’s hand. And Mikey digs his fingers in the spikes sighing a little in relief.

Beau rubs Mikey’s shoulders comfortingly.

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Wordlessly, Olive nudges over a weighted lap blanket that’s been sitting near where she’s sitting

Mikey curls closer to Beau, and pulls the blanket into his lap. He shoots Olive a grateful look.

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“Would you like me to talk, reassure, hug you, or just let it be a quiet moment?” Em asks gently

“Maybe a hug?” Mikey says softly

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“That I can do,” Em replies, standing and coming to hug him close

Mikey clings to her, curling in.

“I guess…I guess I don’t want Momma to think I’m leaving her? If that makes sense?” He mumbles into Em’s shoulder.

A few days after their lunch, Beau gets a text message from Em. He doesn’t recall giving her his number, before remembering that Mikey put them in a chat, so she evidently got it from there

Hey, Beau, it’s em! Ca va?

I wanted to offer if you want to come over for the afternoon? I get if it feels weird since Mikey’s busy so you’d be on your own probably, but Luna had a half day at work and Olive with school, and I figured I’d offer

Bonus, we have fresh cookies

Xoxo

@just-a-fucking-civilian

Beau gets the message on the way home from his shift. He smiles, and some nerves bubble up.

He takes a breath and types a reply.

Oui, ca va. Et toi? I’d love to come over, just let me run home and shower. Would you like me to bring anything?

Xoxo

He saves Em’s number properly, as he reaches the apartment building.

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Tres bien, merci! And no need at all, we just did some shopping so everything is fully provisioned!

Em lives in a nice building, upper middle class easily. Beau can remember his fiance mentioning that her ex is wealthy, and left her in possibly an even more favorable situation. It’s got a doorman, and he passes nice amenities. Em lives in the penthouse of the lovely brick and glass building, and it’s impressive.

As he arrives he can hear laughter from inside, and the sounds of a familiar nursery rhyme, a baby bouncing song from France his mother used to sing

He smiles, the familiar song making him feel a little more relaxed. He knocks patiently, rocking back on his heels a little.

Despite what Em said, he picked up some chocolate and candy on his trip over.

A young woman opens the door with a smile, with wavy brown hair down her back and bright lavender eyes, smiling warmly.

“You must be Uncle Mikey’s dreamer boy?” She swings the door open, and the little girl on Em’s lap jumps up. She must be about three, racing up and hiding behind the younger woman’s leg, head peaking out curiously as Em smiles lovingly.

“Beau! It’s so good to see you — meet my eldest, our lovely Luna, my baby, Lucie.” She smiles proudly. “Olive said she wants to meet you, but she doesn’t get home for a bit”

“Uhh, well yeah, I guess I am.” He smiles at Luna.

“I’m Beau.”

He steps in a little and waves to Em.

“Hey, nice to see you too. That’s alright, I’d love to meet her too.”

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“I’m Luna,” she smiles. “Come in? We have tea and coffee and-”

“Luna, honey, it’s okay,” Em cuts in, gently touching her daughter’s shoulder. “Trust me, lovey. You aren’t with them anyone, remember? You can offer things but I promise, you don’t have to do any of that, okay? It’s okay to be nervous but you don’t have to panic, promise,” she murmurs, as Luna nods shyly

Beau smiles softly, shifting his body language.

“That’s kind of you to offer Luna. I had a coffee not long before the end of my shift. Would you like a chocolate?” He holds out the bag of treats, keeping a respectful distance of Luna’s space.

Luna softens, relaxing slowly. “I’d love one, thank you. What do you do for work?” She asks curiously, as they all move over to the couches

Beau sits carefully, after everyone else has sat.

“I’m a surgeon.” He smiles, “I specialised in cardio thoracic, I transferred to Metro-General.”

“That is… a lot of big words,” she smiles. “So, heart stuff? That’s pretty cool””

“Yes, sorry, heart stuff, lung stuff, chest stuff.” He smiles.

He places the chocolates on the coffee table.

“You do tattoos, yeah?”

CW: Child Abuse

“Like the people who fixed Lucie’s lung after The Reverend collapsed it by accident,” Luna hums, cuddling her little sister

“Yeah! I’ve been learning since I was twelve but I was just apprenticed, I got my license a few months ago”

“And is it okay now?” Beau asks, giving Lucie a smile.

“That’s awesome. Mikey said you’d done a couple of his, they’re amazing.”

“It is,” Luna confirms, grinning as Lucie comes up to Beau shyly and holds out a tangle toy she’d been messing with

“I did, we had a really fun time I think. I liked getting the chance to just chat and stuff, and I’m really proud. There some of my best work, I think”

Beau smiles at the little girl.

“Wow, that’s a cool tangle.” He speaks softly and gently.

“You should be really proud.” He smiles at Luna.

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As Lucie grins, the front door opens, and a teenage girl with warm brown skin appears, hands stuffed in a hoodie as she carefully puts her shoes away

When she spots Beau, she takes a deep breath and gives a little wave, then walks into the kitchen, giving little glances out of the open area above the counter while she finds a snack

Beau smiles and waves to her, returning to playing with Lucie.

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“How’s your new job been?” Em asks with a smile

“Busy, but I’m aiming for head of the department one day.” He smiles, as Lucie hands him a doll and he makes it dance for her.

“It’s definitely different living here.”

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“You’ll do amazing,” Em assured him, laughing softly as Lucie grins. “Yeah, it’s a unique kind of crazy here”

“Mmm, not surfing after a shift is probably what I miss most.”

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“We’ll go to New Jersey when it warms up, you can there,” Em smiles. “I grew up in Boston, but it’s still odd how different it is only a few hours away”

“It’s crazy.” He smiles back.

“Mikey’s trying to decorate the apartment and wedding plan. Still haven’t set a date but we’ve got a better idea of when at least. I’m trying to convince him to just do one thing at a time.”

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“Yeah, honestly with the genes in there I don’t think it’ll work,” Em chuckles. “I moved to New York for college, adopted two kids barely after graduating while in the middle of the chaotic start to my first serious and good relationship, running two theater programs and getting Leo through rehab with Mom and Dad. I think we’re incapable of picking one thing at a time”

“Wow, okay then. You’re as bad as each other.” He teases gently.

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Em laughs. “Trust me, I know”

“Thank you, for inviting me over.”

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“Of course, I’m glad you decided to come.” She smiles as the girl from the kitchen wanders over tentatively, slowly sitting down next to Em

“Mikey said your aunt moved in next door to your parents?” He waits for the girl to initiate any contact, not wanting to make her uncomfortable.

“She sounds lovely.”

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“She did, she’s amazing. She’s sort of a variant of dad, she’s a blast. Both four to five times my age and also about my age, depending,” Em chuckles

“The super soldier thing really messes with age I guess.” He shrugs.

“So she’s both older than me and younger than me?”

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“That and cryofreeze on and off for roughly a century,” she nods. “Yeah, basically”

“That’s going to take a while to wrap my head around.” He shakes his head a little.

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“Yeah, it does,” em chuckles

“People can be weird about age.”

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“And it’s definitely weirder when someone has two ages at once”

“Yeah, the cryo stuff came up a lot at medical school.” Beau still twirls the doll in his hands as Lucie scampers off looking for something.

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“What was medical school like?” The teen asks quietly, her voice tentative, as if she’s worried to make too much sound

“Hectic. A lot of the stereotypes are true, I lived off coffee and scrambled egg bagels most of the time. If anyone was asking for advice, I’d say it’s important that it’s something you are passionate about, have hobbies and things you enjoy away from study, and try to find a good mentor.”

He gives her a small smile, keeps his body language calm and open, speaks in a gentle, soothing tone.

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Olive nods quietly. “I think about being a nurse sometimes. Maybe pediatrics”

“Yeah? It’s an interesting part of medicine, and working with kids is a whole different experience. Sometimes I get called in to help.”

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“Yeah? Kids tend to be crazy… I remember I always was at the doctor’s, when I was able to go”

“There’s that, but also the medical and biological aspects are a little different too. Things can change so much faster.” Beau explains.

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“Yeah?”

“Yeah.” He smiles at her again.

“You know, there’s a work experience program if you’re ever interested.”

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Olive perks up. “Really?”

“Yeah! Obviously for privacy reasons there’s some things you can’t be involved in. But it’s a lot of behind the scenes stuff, how the hospital runs, what different jobs are.”

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Olive nods. “That sounds really interesting”

“How about I send Em the information and the supervisor’s contact details?” He offers.

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“Really? That would be amazing!”

“Not a problem, I can write your entry reference if you need.”

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“You… you probably shouldn’t. It’ll look bad for you when they get my background check,” Olive says softly

“The offer’s there if you need it.” He says gently, not pushing.

“I can grab the info on my next shift.” He smiles to Em, “I’ll text it to you.”

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“Thank you,” she says softly.

When a timer goes off in the kitchen, she smiles. “My tea’s steeped… I’ll be right back”

He returns the smile warmly.

“Sure thing.”

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When she steps away, Em breaks into a grin. “You’re a magician, I swear,” she says softly. “That’s the most she’s talked all week”

“No magic, just practice I guess.” Beau smiles back.

“She seems like a great kid.”

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“Also I think just… everyone here knows where she came from. You talked with her. I think it helps,” Em smiles. “She is, she’s my cousin. Hitchhiked here from Arizona. She’s doing so well here”

“Wow, that’s a long way!” He blinks a little.

His phone buzzes and he smiles when he sees Mikey’s name.

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“Yeah, she. Well, she approved the version I’m about to tel you, the rest is all her. She grew up in a trap house, with one of my aunts and an uncle and god knows who else. Her record is a mess because she was stealing food to eat and has a list of misdemeanors long enough to make Lucie into a mummy. She was born with a lot of vulnerabilities due to her mom’s addictions, and her past is something we have to fight every step,” Em explains

“But she’s also obviously more. She’s brilliant, if we can get around the record she could probably go to an ivy. She loves kids and wants to be a nurse or councilor, she loves drawing. She and Luna are thick as thieves, they’re practically sharing a room even though Olive has her own, but it’s more her own den. Shes amazing”

“I’m glad she has you guys.” He nods.

“I think she can do it, I think she’s a lot stronger than she believes.”

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“I think so too,” Em agrees. “She’s getting used to normal life, I think she’s loving having a big family. Especially since we encourage her to come and go as she likes”

“Independence and freedom of choice are so important.” Beau agrees.

His phone buzzes again.

“Mikes wants to know if you guys would like him to bring takeout over for dinner?”

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“As you can see, she’s definitely benefiting. She tends to come in and out or sit nearby whenever there’s people around. Honestly it makes me proud, that she’s learning to listen to herself.”

Em grins. “Yes, absolutely. Indian, maybe?”

“It’s awesome, and you should be proud of yourself too.” He smiles.

“I could absolutely smash a chicken madras.” He grins back and texts Mikey back.

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“Aww, thank you”

Em smiles. “Lunita! Lucie! Olive! What do you want for Indian?” She calls out

Beau opens his notes app to type in all the orders to send to Mikey.

He grins as the girls come in, Lucie barrelling straight for Em’s legs.

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Em grins and squeals, picking Lucie up and air-planing her over her head as the toddler kicks and squeals happily. “Do you want samosas baby?” She coos. “You wanna have some samosas with us? And cheesy na’an?”

As Luna and Olive politely ask for their picks, Em adds on one or two appetizers to split amongst the group, grinning as Lucie climbs all over her

Beau grins, noting everything down.

“Alright, last call before I send it to Mikey!”

He watches Em and Lucie with a soft smile, something twisting in his chest.

“That’s everything, I think,” Luna grins, dragging Olive down onto the couch to tickle her

“Awesome!” He sends the list to Mikey, it buzzes shortly after.

“ETA one hour!” He grins.

“Want to play a board game?” Luna offers. “I just got one that I think could be fun”

“Sure!” He nods.

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Em sits down with them, pulling Lucie into her lap as they all go over the rules

Beau listens carefully, sitting between Luna and Em.

He takes his phone off vibrate in case he misses a call from Mikey.

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When Mikey arrives, he arrives to laughter, with his fiance laughing with his family as Em and Beau playfully bicker in French about a captured piece, and Luna and Olive giggle conspiratorially

“Hmm, my chaos senses are tingling!” Mikey grins, arms full of takeout bags.

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Em laughs, as Lucie runs at him eagerly she takes some of the bags off his hands. “Hey there, mon frere,” she smiles. “Come join?”

“Hey sis.” He smiles, watching Lucie carefully.

“What’s the game?”

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“Some sort of fantasy combat game where we’re all golems trying to protect our territory,” Em replies. “Which will now have to be put on hold” she adds intentionally, with a tone that sounds so much like Lina it’s impressive

The similarity strikes Mikey and he hides a snicker as the girls respond.

Beau gets up and helps Mikey with the food.

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Em smiles fondly, helping to set food out on the table as they all settle in

Mikey sits next to Beau and instinctively Beau leans over and kisses Mikey’s forehead.

Mikey goes a little pink and clears his throat.

“So, umm, everyone have a good day?”

Luna grins softly, whispering something to Olive that makes the younger girl blush a bit.

“I did, I had the day off so it was pretty calm”

“That’s good.” He nods, passing some rice along and helping Lucie get some samosas.

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“And Mr. Kleiss told me about an internship program at the hospital,” Olive adds softly

“Just Beau is fine, Olive.” Beau smiles gently.

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“Okay, Mr- Beau,” Olive corrects shyly, smiling a little

Beau smiles and offers Olive the rice.

Mikey has a few bites of his food then asks Em.

“What do you think I should put in groomsmen boxes for Leo and Wyatt? I’ve looked online but it’s all alcohol based stuff.”

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Em considers. “Mini Lego sets, maybe? They both like puzzles or making things, or if you wanted something a little nicer or more practical you could do like cufflinks or a lapel pin? That they can use at the wedding?”

“Yeah…good idea.” Mikey grins, tearing some na’an.

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“Alternatively, you can just give them both nerf guns, say they’re your groomsmen, and let them loose in the yard?”

Mikey grins mischievously.

“Ooh that works!”

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Em laughs. “Look, I have no idea what they’d be fighting for but I say go for it either way”

Beau grins and casually wraps an arm around Mikey’s shoulders.

“Your family sounds wonderful.”

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“The are,” Olive replies softly

Beau smiles.

“I’m glad.”

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She reaches for a pitcher of water, refilling her glass and then Luna’s when she notices it’s empty. “Do you like cats?”

“I like animals.” He nods, “We have a puppy.”

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“Really? What kind?”

She grins shyly as a large cat walks into the room, a Mane Coon who is soon up on her lap and lazily purring, very much pleased. “This is my cat”

“Hey kitty.” Beau coos to the cat.

“Puddles is a cocker spaniel.”

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The cat winds over, nudging at his hand. “This is EmmaL

Beau scratches behind the cat’s ears and coos lovingly in French.

“Uncle Mikey, does Babacia know you’re engaged yet?” Luna asks curiously

Mikey unconsciously shifts closer to Beau, and chews his lip.

“Not exactly.”

Luna nods. “Okay, I won’t say anything then”

Mikey gives her an appreciative smile, as Beau leans closer and kisses Mikey’s forehead again.

“You do need to talk to her, mon cœur.” He says gently.

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“She’ll be happy, don’t worry,” em murmurs. “Whenever you do it, she’ll be over the moon”

Mikey nods, twisting and fiddling with his fingers.

“Dunno why I’m nervy.”

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“Hey, I get it. I was that way both with my engagement and my divorce,” Em smiles comfortingly, reaching for his hand. “Take all the time you need; we won’t snitch. I won’t even tell Leo”

“Thanks sis.” Mikey squeezes her hand with a smile.

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“Of course. You’re always safe here,” em smiles warmly

Wordlessly, Beau pulls a spiky turtle fidget from his pocket and puts it in Mikey’s hand. And Mikey digs his fingers in the spikes sighing a little in relief.

Beau rubs Mikey’s shoulders comfortingly.

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Wordlessly, Olive nudges over a weighted lap blanket that’s been sitting near where she’s sitting

Mikey curls closer to Beau, and pulls the blanket into his lap. He shoots Olive a grateful look.

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“Would you like me to talk, reassure, hug you, or just let it be a quiet moment?” Em asks gently

“Maybe a hug?” Mikey says softly

A few days after their lunch, Beau gets a text message from Em. He doesn’t recall giving her his number, before remembering that Mikey put them in a chat, so she evidently got it from there

Hey, Beau, it’s em! Ca va?

I wanted to offer if you want to come over for the afternoon? I get if it feels weird since Mikey’s busy so you’d be on your own probably, but Luna had a half day at work and Olive with school, and I figured I’d offer

Bonus, we have fresh cookies

Xoxo

@just-a-fucking-civilian

Beau gets the message on the way home from his shift. He smiles, and some nerves bubble up.

He takes a breath and types a reply.

Oui, ca va. Et toi? I’d love to come over, just let me run home and shower. Would you like me to bring anything?

Xoxo

He saves Em’s number properly, as he reaches the apartment building.

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Tres bien, merci! And no need at all, we just did some shopping so everything is fully provisioned!

Em lives in a nice building, upper middle class easily. Beau can remember his fiance mentioning that her ex is wealthy, and left her in possibly an even more favorable situation. It’s got a doorman, and he passes nice amenities. Em lives in the penthouse of the lovely brick and glass building, and it’s impressive.

As he arrives he can hear laughter from inside, and the sounds of a familiar nursery rhyme, a baby bouncing song from France his mother used to sing

He smiles, the familiar song making him feel a little more relaxed. He knocks patiently, rocking back on his heels a little.

Despite what Em said, he picked up some chocolate and candy on his trip over.

A young woman opens the door with a smile, with wavy brown hair down her back and bright lavender eyes, smiling warmly.

“You must be Uncle Mikey’s dreamer boy?” She swings the door open, and the little girl on Em’s lap jumps up. She must be about three, racing up and hiding behind the younger woman’s leg, head peaking out curiously as Em smiles lovingly.

“Beau! It’s so good to see you — meet my eldest, our lovely Luna, my baby, Lucie.” She smiles proudly. “Olive said she wants to meet you, but she doesn’t get home for a bit”

“Uhh, well yeah, I guess I am.” He smiles at Luna.

“I’m Beau.”

He steps in a little and waves to Em.

“Hey, nice to see you too. That’s alright, I’d love to meet her too.”

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“I’m Luna,” she smiles. “Come in? We have tea and coffee and-”

“Luna, honey, it’s okay,” Em cuts in, gently touching her daughter’s shoulder. “Trust me, lovey. You aren’t with them anyone, remember? You can offer things but I promise, you don’t have to do any of that, okay? It’s okay to be nervous but you don’t have to panic, promise,” she murmurs, as Luna nods shyly

Beau smiles softly, shifting his body language.

“That’s kind of you to offer Luna. I had a coffee not long before the end of my shift. Would you like a chocolate?” He holds out the bag of treats, keeping a respectful distance of Luna’s space.

Luna softens, relaxing slowly. “I’d love one, thank you. What do you do for work?” She asks curiously, as they all move over to the couches

Beau sits carefully, after everyone else has sat.

“I’m a surgeon.” He smiles, “I specialised in cardio thoracic, I transferred to Metro-General.”

“That is… a lot of big words,” she smiles. “So, heart stuff? That’s pretty cool””

“Yes, sorry, heart stuff, lung stuff, chest stuff.” He smiles.

He places the chocolates on the coffee table.

“You do tattoos, yeah?”

CW: Child Abuse

“Like the people who fixed Lucie’s lung after The Reverend collapsed it by accident,” Luna hums, cuddling her little sister

“Yeah! I’ve been learning since I was twelve but I was just apprenticed, I got my license a few months ago”

“And is it okay now?” Beau asks, giving Lucie a smile.

“That’s awesome. Mikey said you’d done a couple of his, they’re amazing.”

“It is,” Luna confirms, grinning as Lucie comes up to Beau shyly and holds out a tangle toy she’d been messing with

“I did, we had a really fun time I think. I liked getting the chance to just chat and stuff, and I’m really proud. There some of my best work, I think”

Beau smiles at the little girl.

“Wow, that’s a cool tangle.” He speaks softly and gently.

“You should be really proud.” He smiles at Luna.

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As Lucie grins, the front door opens, and a teenage girl with warm brown skin appears, hands stuffed in a hoodie as she carefully puts her shoes away

When she spots Beau, she takes a deep breath and gives a little wave, then walks into the kitchen, giving little glances out of the open area above the counter while she finds a snack

Beau smiles and waves to her, returning to playing with Lucie.

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“How’s your new job been?” Em asks with a smile

“Busy, but I’m aiming for head of the department one day.” He smiles, as Lucie hands him a doll and he makes it dance for her.

“It’s definitely different living here.”

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“You’ll do amazing,” Em assured him, laughing softly as Lucie grins. “Yeah, it’s a unique kind of crazy here”

“Mmm, not surfing after a shift is probably what I miss most.”

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“We’ll go to New Jersey when it warms up, you can there,” Em smiles. “I grew up in Boston, but it’s still odd how different it is only a few hours away”

“It’s crazy.” He smiles back.

“Mikey’s trying to decorate the apartment and wedding plan. Still haven’t set a date but we’ve got a better idea of when at least. I’m trying to convince him to just do one thing at a time.”

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“Yeah, honestly with the genes in there I don’t think it’ll work,” Em chuckles. “I moved to New York for college, adopted two kids barely after graduating while in the middle of the chaotic start to my first serious and good relationship, running two theater programs and getting Leo through rehab with Mom and Dad. I think we’re incapable of picking one thing at a time”

“Wow, okay then. You’re as bad as each other.” He teases gently.

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Em laughs. “Trust me, I know”

“Thank you, for inviting me over.”

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“Of course, I’m glad you decided to come.” She smiles as the girl from the kitchen wanders over tentatively, slowly sitting down next to Em

“Mikey said your aunt moved in next door to your parents?” He waits for the girl to initiate any contact, not wanting to make her uncomfortable.

“She sounds lovely.”

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“She did, she’s amazing. She’s sort of a variant of dad, she’s a blast. Both four to five times my age and also about my age, depending,” Em chuckles

“The super soldier thing really messes with age I guess.” He shrugs.

“So she’s both older than me and younger than me?”

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“That and cryofreeze on and off for roughly a century,” she nods. “Yeah, basically”

“That’s going to take a while to wrap my head around.” He shakes his head a little.

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“Yeah, it does,” em chuckles

“People can be weird about age.”

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“And it’s definitely weirder when someone has two ages at once”

“Yeah, the cryo stuff came up a lot at medical school.” Beau still twirls the doll in his hands as Lucie scampers off looking for something.

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“What was medical school like?” The teen asks quietly, her voice tentative, as if she’s worried to make too much sound

“Hectic. A lot of the stereotypes are true, I lived off coffee and scrambled egg bagels most of the time. If anyone was asking for advice, I’d say it’s important that it’s something you are passionate about, have hobbies and things you enjoy away from study, and try to find a good mentor.”

He gives her a small smile, keeps his body language calm and open, speaks in a gentle, soothing tone.

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Olive nods quietly. “I think about being a nurse sometimes. Maybe pediatrics”

“Yeah? It’s an interesting part of medicine, and working with kids is a whole different experience. Sometimes I get called in to help.”

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“Yeah? Kids tend to be crazy… I remember I always was at the doctor’s, when I was able to go”

“There’s that, but also the medical and biological aspects are a little different too. Things can change so much faster.” Beau explains.

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“Yeah?”

“Yeah.” He smiles at her again.

“You know, there’s a work experience program if you’re ever interested.”

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Olive perks up. “Really?”

“Yeah! Obviously for privacy reasons there’s some things you can’t be involved in. But it’s a lot of behind the scenes stuff, how the hospital runs, what different jobs are.”

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Olive nods. “That sounds really interesting”

“How about I send Em the information and the supervisor’s contact details?” He offers.

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“Really? That would be amazing!”

“Not a problem, I can write your entry reference if you need.”

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“You… you probably shouldn’t. It’ll look bad for you when they get my background check,” Olive says softly

“The offer’s there if you need it.” He says gently, not pushing.

“I can grab the info on my next shift.” He smiles to Em, “I’ll text it to you.”

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“Thank you,” she says softly.

When a timer goes off in the kitchen, she smiles. “My tea’s steeped… I’ll be right back”

He returns the smile warmly.

“Sure thing.”

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When she steps away, Em breaks into a grin. “You’re a magician, I swear,” she says softly. “That’s the most she’s talked all week”

“No magic, just practice I guess.” Beau smiles back.

“She seems like a great kid.”

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“Also I think just… everyone here knows where she came from. You talked with her. I think it helps,” Em smiles. “She is, she’s my cousin. Hitchhiked here from Arizona. She’s doing so well here”

“Wow, that’s a long way!” He blinks a little.

His phone buzzes and he smiles when he sees Mikey’s name.

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“Yeah, she. Well, she approved the version I’m about to tel you, the rest is all her. She grew up in a trap house, with one of my aunts and an uncle and god knows who else. Her record is a mess because she was stealing food to eat and has a list of misdemeanors long enough to make Lucie into a mummy. She was born with a lot of vulnerabilities due to her mom’s addictions, and her past is something we have to fight every step,” Em explains

“But she’s also obviously more. She’s brilliant, if we can get around the record she could probably go to an ivy. She loves kids and wants to be a nurse or councilor, she loves drawing. She and Luna are thick as thieves, they’re practically sharing a room even though Olive has her own, but it’s more her own den. Shes amazing”

“I’m glad she has you guys.” He nods.

“I think she can do it, I think she’s a lot stronger than she believes.”

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“I think so too,” Em agrees. “She’s getting used to normal life, I think she’s loving having a big family. Especially since we encourage her to come and go as she likes”

“Independence and freedom of choice are so important.” Beau agrees.

His phone buzzes again.

“Mikes wants to know if you guys would like him to bring takeout over for dinner?”

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“As you can see, she’s definitely benefiting. She tends to come in and out or sit nearby whenever there’s people around. Honestly it makes me proud, that she’s learning to listen to herself.”

Em grins. “Yes, absolutely. Indian, maybe?”

“It’s awesome, and you should be proud of yourself too.” He smiles.

“I could absolutely smash a chicken madras.” He grins back and texts Mikey back.

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“Aww, thank you”

Em smiles. “Lunita! Lucie! Olive! What do you want for Indian?” She calls out

Beau opens his notes app to type in all the orders to send to Mikey.

He grins as the girls come in, Lucie barrelling straight for Em’s legs.

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Em grins and squeals, picking Lucie up and air-planing her over her head as the toddler kicks and squeals happily. “Do you want samosas baby?” She coos. “You wanna have some samosas with us? And cheesy na’an?”

As Luna and Olive politely ask for their picks, Em adds on one or two appetizers to split amongst the group, grinning as Lucie climbs all over her

Beau grins, noting everything down.

“Alright, last call before I send it to Mikey!”

He watches Em and Lucie with a soft smile, something twisting in his chest.

“That’s everything, I think,” Luna grins, dragging Olive down onto the couch to tickle her

“Awesome!” He sends the list to Mikey, it buzzes shortly after.

“ETA one hour!” He grins.

“Want to play a board game?” Luna offers. “I just got one that I think could be fun”

“Sure!” He nods.

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Em sits down with them, pulling Lucie into her lap as they all go over the rules

Beau listens carefully, sitting between Luna and Em.

He takes his phone off vibrate in case he misses a call from Mikey.

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When Mikey arrives, he arrives to laughter, with his fiance laughing with his family as Em and Beau playfully bicker in French about a captured piece, and Luna and Olive giggle conspiratorially

“Hmm, my chaos senses are tingling!” Mikey grins, arms full of takeout bags.

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Em laughs, as Lucie runs at him eagerly she takes some of the bags off his hands. “Hey there, mon frere,” she smiles. “Come join?”

“Hey sis.” He smiles, watching Lucie carefully.

“What’s the game?”

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“Some sort of fantasy combat game where we’re all golems trying to protect our territory,” Em replies. “Which will now have to be put on hold” she adds intentionally, with a tone that sounds so much like Lina it’s impressive

The similarity strikes Mikey and he hides a snicker as the girls respond.

Beau gets up and helps Mikey with the food.

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Em smiles fondly, helping to set food out on the table as they all settle in

Mikey sits next to Beau and instinctively Beau leans over and kisses Mikey’s forehead.

Mikey goes a little pink and clears his throat.

“So, umm, everyone have a good day?”

Luna grins softly, whispering something to Olive that makes the younger girl blush a bit.

“I did, I had the day off so it was pretty calm”

“That’s good.” He nods, passing some rice along and helping Lucie get some samosas.

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“And Mr. Kleiss told me about an internship program at the hospital,” Olive adds softly

“Just Beau is fine, Olive.” Beau smiles gently.

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“Okay, Mr- Beau,” Olive corrects shyly, smiling a little

Beau smiles and offers Olive the rice.

Mikey has a few bites of his food then asks Em.

“What do you think I should put in groomsmen boxes for Leo and Wyatt? I’ve looked online but it’s all alcohol based stuff.”

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Em considers. “Mini Lego sets, maybe? They both like puzzles or making things, or if you wanted something a little nicer or more practical you could do like cufflinks or a lapel pin? That they can use at the wedding?”

“Yeah…good idea.” Mikey grins, tearing some na’an.

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“Alternatively, you can just give them both nerf guns, say they’re your groomsmen, and let them loose in the yard?”

Mikey grins mischievously.

“Ooh that works!”

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Em laughs. “Look, I have no idea what they’d be fighting for but I say go for it either way”

Beau grins and casually wraps an arm around Mikey’s shoulders.

“Your family sounds wonderful.”

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“The are,” Olive replies softly

Beau smiles.

“I’m glad.”

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She reaches for a pitcher of water, refilling her glass and then Luna’s when she notices it’s empty. “Do you like cats?”

“I like animals.” He nods, “We have a puppy.”

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“Really? What kind?”

She grins shyly as a large cat walks into the room, a Mane Coon who is soon up on her lap and lazily purring, very much pleased. “This is my cat”

“Hey kitty.” Beau coos to the cat.

“Puddles is a cocker spaniel.”

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The cat winds over, nudging at his hand. “This is EmmaL

Beau scratches behind the cat’s ears and coos lovingly in French.

“Uncle Mikey, does Babacia know you’re engaged yet?” Luna asks curiously

Mikey unconsciously shifts closer to Beau, and chews his lip.

“Not exactly.”

Luna nods. “Okay, I won’t say anything then”

Mikey gives her an appreciative smile, as Beau leans closer and kisses Mikey’s forehead again.

“You do need to talk to her, mon cœur.” He says gently.

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“She’ll be happy, don’t worry,” em murmurs. “Whenever you do it, she’ll be over the moon”

Mikey nods, twisting and fiddling with his fingers.

“Dunno why I’m nervy.”

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“Hey, I get it. I was that way both with my engagement and my divorce,” Em smiles comfortingly, reaching for his hand. “Take all the time you need; we won’t snitch. I won’t even tell Leo”

“Thanks sis.” Mikey squeezes her hand with a smile.

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“Of course. You’re always safe here,” em smiles warmly

Wordlessly, Beau pulls a spiky turtle fidget from his pocket and puts it in Mikey’s hand. And Mikey digs his fingers in the spikes sighing a little in relief.

Beau rubs Mikey’s shoulders comfortingly.

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Wordlessly, Olive nudges over a weighted lap blanket that’s been sitting near where she’s sitting

Mikey curls closer to Beau, and pulls the blanket into his lap. He shoots Olive a grateful look.

A few days after their lunch, Beau gets a text message from Em. He doesn’t recall giving her his number, before remembering that Mikey put them in a chat, so she evidently got it from there

Hey, Beau, it’s em! Ca va?

I wanted to offer if you want to come over for the afternoon? I get if it feels weird since Mikey’s busy so you’d be on your own probably, but Luna had a half day at work and Olive with school, and I figured I’d offer

Bonus, we have fresh cookies

Xoxo

@just-a-fucking-civilian

Beau gets the message on the way home from his shift. He smiles, and some nerves bubble up.

He takes a breath and types a reply.

Oui, ca va. Et toi? I’d love to come over, just let me run home and shower. Would you like me to bring anything?

Xoxo

He saves Em’s number properly, as he reaches the apartment building.

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Tres bien, merci! And no need at all, we just did some shopping so everything is fully provisioned!

Em lives in a nice building, upper middle class easily. Beau can remember his fiance mentioning that her ex is wealthy, and left her in possibly an even more favorable situation. It’s got a doorman, and he passes nice amenities. Em lives in the penthouse of the lovely brick and glass building, and it’s impressive.

As he arrives he can hear laughter from inside, and the sounds of a familiar nursery rhyme, a baby bouncing song from France his mother used to sing

He smiles, the familiar song making him feel a little more relaxed. He knocks patiently, rocking back on his heels a little.

Despite what Em said, he picked up some chocolate and candy on his trip over.

A young woman opens the door with a smile, with wavy brown hair down her back and bright lavender eyes, smiling warmly.

“You must be Uncle Mikey’s dreamer boy?” She swings the door open, and the little girl on Em’s lap jumps up. She must be about three, racing up and hiding behind the younger woman’s leg, head peaking out curiously as Em smiles lovingly.

“Beau! It’s so good to see you — meet my eldest, our lovely Luna, my baby, Lucie.” She smiles proudly. “Olive said she wants to meet you, but she doesn’t get home for a bit”

“Uhh, well yeah, I guess I am.” He smiles at Luna.

“I’m Beau.”

He steps in a little and waves to Em.

“Hey, nice to see you too. That’s alright, I’d love to meet her too.”

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“I’m Luna,” she smiles. “Come in? We have tea and coffee and-”

“Luna, honey, it’s okay,” Em cuts in, gently touching her daughter’s shoulder. “Trust me, lovey. You aren’t with them anyone, remember? You can offer things but I promise, you don’t have to do any of that, okay? It’s okay to be nervous but you don’t have to panic, promise,” she murmurs, as Luna nods shyly

Beau smiles softly, shifting his body language.

“That’s kind of you to offer Luna. I had a coffee not long before the end of my shift. Would you like a chocolate?” He holds out the bag of treats, keeping a respectful distance of Luna’s space.

Luna softens, relaxing slowly. “I’d love one, thank you. What do you do for work?” She asks curiously, as they all move over to the couches

Beau sits carefully, after everyone else has sat.

“I’m a surgeon.” He smiles, “I specialised in cardio thoracic, I transferred to Metro-General.”

“That is… a lot of big words,” she smiles. “So, heart stuff? That’s pretty cool””

“Yes, sorry, heart stuff, lung stuff, chest stuff.” He smiles.

He places the chocolates on the coffee table.

“You do tattoos, yeah?”

CW: Child Abuse

“Like the people who fixed Lucie’s lung after The Reverend collapsed it by accident,” Luna hums, cuddling her little sister

“Yeah! I’ve been learning since I was twelve but I was just apprenticed, I got my license a few months ago”

“And is it okay now?” Beau asks, giving Lucie a smile.

“That’s awesome. Mikey said you’d done a couple of his, they’re amazing.”

“It is,” Luna confirms, grinning as Lucie comes up to Beau shyly and holds out a tangle toy she’d been messing with

“I did, we had a really fun time I think. I liked getting the chance to just chat and stuff, and I’m really proud. There some of my best work, I think”

Beau smiles at the little girl.

“Wow, that’s a cool tangle.” He speaks softly and gently.

“You should be really proud.” He smiles at Luna.

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As Lucie grins, the front door opens, and a teenage girl with warm brown skin appears, hands stuffed in a hoodie as she carefully puts her shoes away

When she spots Beau, she takes a deep breath and gives a little wave, then walks into the kitchen, giving little glances out of the open area above the counter while she finds a snack

Beau smiles and waves to her, returning to playing with Lucie.

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“How’s your new job been?” Em asks with a smile

“Busy, but I’m aiming for head of the department one day.” He smiles, as Lucie hands him a doll and he makes it dance for her.

“It’s definitely different living here.”

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“You’ll do amazing,” Em assured him, laughing softly as Lucie grins. “Yeah, it’s a unique kind of crazy here”

“Mmm, not surfing after a shift is probably what I miss most.”

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“We’ll go to New Jersey when it warms up, you can there,” Em smiles. “I grew up in Boston, but it’s still odd how different it is only a few hours away”

“It’s crazy.” He smiles back.

“Mikey’s trying to decorate the apartment and wedding plan. Still haven’t set a date but we’ve got a better idea of when at least. I’m trying to convince him to just do one thing at a time.”

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“Yeah, honestly with the genes in there I don’t think it’ll work,” Em chuckles. “I moved to New York for college, adopted two kids barely after graduating while in the middle of the chaotic start to my first serious and good relationship, running two theater programs and getting Leo through rehab with Mom and Dad. I think we’re incapable of picking one thing at a time”

“Wow, okay then. You’re as bad as each other.” He teases gently.

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Em laughs. “Trust me, I know”

“Thank you, for inviting me over.”

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“Of course, I’m glad you decided to come.” She smiles as the girl from the kitchen wanders over tentatively, slowly sitting down next to Em

“Mikey said your aunt moved in next door to your parents?” He waits for the girl to initiate any contact, not wanting to make her uncomfortable.

“She sounds lovely.”

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“She did, she’s amazing. She’s sort of a variant of dad, she’s a blast. Both four to five times my age and also about my age, depending,” Em chuckles

“The super soldier thing really messes with age I guess.” He shrugs.

“So she’s both older than me and younger than me?”

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“That and cryofreeze on and off for roughly a century,” she nods. “Yeah, basically”

“That’s going to take a while to wrap my head around.” He shakes his head a little.

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“Yeah, it does,” em chuckles

“People can be weird about age.”

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“And it’s definitely weirder when someone has two ages at once”

“Yeah, the cryo stuff came up a lot at medical school.” Beau still twirls the doll in his hands as Lucie scampers off looking for something.

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“What was medical school like?” The teen asks quietly, her voice tentative, as if she’s worried to make too much sound

“Hectic. A lot of the stereotypes are true, I lived off coffee and scrambled egg bagels most of the time. If anyone was asking for advice, I’d say it’s important that it’s something you are passionate about, have hobbies and things you enjoy away from study, and try to find a good mentor.”

He gives her a small smile, keeps his body language calm and open, speaks in a gentle, soothing tone.

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Olive nods quietly. “I think about being a nurse sometimes. Maybe pediatrics”

“Yeah? It’s an interesting part of medicine, and working with kids is a whole different experience. Sometimes I get called in to help.”

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“Yeah? Kids tend to be crazy… I remember I always was at the doctor’s, when I was able to go”

“There’s that, but also the medical and biological aspects are a little different too. Things can change so much faster.” Beau explains.

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“Yeah?”

“Yeah.” He smiles at her again.

“You know, there’s a work experience program if you’re ever interested.”

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Olive perks up. “Really?”

“Yeah! Obviously for privacy reasons there’s some things you can’t be involved in. But it’s a lot of behind the scenes stuff, how the hospital runs, what different jobs are.”

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Olive nods. “That sounds really interesting”

“How about I send Em the information and the supervisor’s contact details?” He offers.

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“Really? That would be amazing!”

“Not a problem, I can write your entry reference if you need.”

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“You… you probably shouldn’t. It’ll look bad for you when they get my background check,” Olive says softly

“The offer’s there if you need it.” He says gently, not pushing.

“I can grab the info on my next shift.” He smiles to Em, “I’ll text it to you.”

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“Thank you,” she says softly.

When a timer goes off in the kitchen, she smiles. “My tea’s steeped… I’ll be right back”

He returns the smile warmly.

“Sure thing.”

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When she steps away, Em breaks into a grin. “You’re a magician, I swear,” she says softly. “That’s the most she’s talked all week”

“No magic, just practice I guess.” Beau smiles back.

“She seems like a great kid.”

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“Also I think just… everyone here knows where she came from. You talked with her. I think it helps,” Em smiles. “She is, she’s my cousin. Hitchhiked here from Arizona. She’s doing so well here”

“Wow, that’s a long way!” He blinks a little.

His phone buzzes and he smiles when he sees Mikey’s name.

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“Yeah, she. Well, she approved the version I’m about to tel you, the rest is all her. She grew up in a trap house, with one of my aunts and an uncle and god knows who else. Her record is a mess because she was stealing food to eat and has a list of misdemeanors long enough to make Lucie into a mummy. She was born with a lot of vulnerabilities due to her mom’s addictions, and her past is something we have to fight every step,” Em explains

“But she’s also obviously more. She’s brilliant, if we can get around the record she could probably go to an ivy. She loves kids and wants to be a nurse or councilor, she loves drawing. She and Luna are thick as thieves, they’re practically sharing a room even though Olive has her own, but it’s more her own den. Shes amazing”

“I’m glad she has you guys.” He nods.

“I think she can do it, I think she’s a lot stronger than she believes.”

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“I think so too,” Em agrees. “She’s getting used to normal life, I think she’s loving having a big family. Especially since we encourage her to come and go as she likes”

“Independence and freedom of choice are so important.” Beau agrees.

His phone buzzes again.

“Mikes wants to know if you guys would like him to bring takeout over for dinner?”

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“As you can see, she’s definitely benefiting. She tends to come in and out or sit nearby whenever there’s people around. Honestly it makes me proud, that she’s learning to listen to herself.”

Em grins. “Yes, absolutely. Indian, maybe?”

“It’s awesome, and you should be proud of yourself too.” He smiles.

“I could absolutely smash a chicken madras.” He grins back and texts Mikey back.

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“Aww, thank you”

Em smiles. “Lunita! Lucie! Olive! What do you want for Indian?” She calls out

Beau opens his notes app to type in all the orders to send to Mikey.

He grins as the girls come in, Lucie barrelling straight for Em’s legs.

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Em grins and squeals, picking Lucie up and air-planing her over her head as the toddler kicks and squeals happily. “Do you want samosas baby?” She coos. “You wanna have some samosas with us? And cheesy na’an?”

As Luna and Olive politely ask for their picks, Em adds on one or two appetizers to split amongst the group, grinning as Lucie climbs all over her

Beau grins, noting everything down.

“Alright, last call before I send it to Mikey!”

He watches Em and Lucie with a soft smile, something twisting in his chest.

“That’s everything, I think,” Luna grins, dragging Olive down onto the couch to tickle her

“Awesome!” He sends the list to Mikey, it buzzes shortly after.

“ETA one hour!” He grins.

“Want to play a board game?” Luna offers. “I just got one that I think could be fun”

“Sure!” He nods.

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Em sits down with them, pulling Lucie into her lap as they all go over the rules

Beau listens carefully, sitting between Luna and Em.

He takes his phone off vibrate in case he misses a call from Mikey.

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When Mikey arrives, he arrives to laughter, with his fiance laughing with his family as Em and Beau playfully bicker in French about a captured piece, and Luna and Olive giggle conspiratorially

“Hmm, my chaos senses are tingling!” Mikey grins, arms full of takeout bags.

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Em laughs, as Lucie runs at him eagerly she takes some of the bags off his hands. “Hey there, mon frere,” she smiles. “Come join?”

“Hey sis.” He smiles, watching Lucie carefully.

“What’s the game?”

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“Some sort of fantasy combat game where we’re all golems trying to protect our territory,” Em replies. “Which will now have to be put on hold” she adds intentionally, with a tone that sounds so much like Lina it’s impressive

The similarity strikes Mikey and he hides a snicker as the girls respond.

Beau gets up and helps Mikey with the food.

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Em smiles fondly, helping to set food out on the table as they all settle in

Mikey sits next to Beau and instinctively Beau leans over and kisses Mikey’s forehead.

Mikey goes a little pink and clears his throat.

“So, umm, everyone have a good day?”

Luna grins softly, whispering something to Olive that makes the younger girl blush a bit.

“I did, I had the day off so it was pretty calm”

“That’s good.” He nods, passing some rice along and helping Lucie get some samosas.

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“And Mr. Kleiss told me about an internship program at the hospital,” Olive adds softly

“Just Beau is fine, Olive.” Beau smiles gently.

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“Okay, Mr- Beau,” Olive corrects shyly, smiling a little

Beau smiles and offers Olive the rice.

Mikey has a few bites of his food then asks Em.

“What do you think I should put in groomsmen boxes for Leo and Wyatt? I’ve looked online but it’s all alcohol based stuff.”

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Em considers. “Mini Lego sets, maybe? They both like puzzles or making things, or if you wanted something a little nicer or more practical you could do like cufflinks or a lapel pin? That they can use at the wedding?”

“Yeah…good idea.” Mikey grins, tearing some na’an.

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“Alternatively, you can just give them both nerf guns, say they’re your groomsmen, and let them loose in the yard?”

Mikey grins mischievously.

“Ooh that works!”

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Em laughs. “Look, I have no idea what they’d be fighting for but I say go for it either way”

Beau grins and casually wraps an arm around Mikey’s shoulders.

“Your family sounds wonderful.”

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“The are,” Olive replies softly

Beau smiles.

“I’m glad.”

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She reaches for a pitcher of water, refilling her glass and then Luna’s when she notices it’s empty. “Do you like cats?”

“I like animals.” He nods, “We have a puppy.”

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“Really? What kind?”

She grins shyly as a large cat walks into the room, a Mane Coon who is soon up on her lap and lazily purring, very much pleased. “This is my cat”

“Hey kitty.” Beau coos to the cat.

“Puddles is a cocker spaniel.”

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The cat winds over, nudging at his hand. “This is EmmaL

Beau scratches behind the cat’s ears and coos lovingly in French.

“Uncle Mikey, does Babacia know you’re engaged yet?” Luna asks curiously

Mikey unconsciously shifts closer to Beau, and chews his lip.

“Not exactly.”

Luna nods. “Okay, I won’t say anything then”

Mikey gives her an appreciative smile, as Beau leans closer and kisses Mikey’s forehead again.

“You do need to talk to her, mon cœur.” He says gently.

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“She’ll be happy, don’t worry,” em murmurs. “Whenever you do it, she’ll be over the moon”

Mikey nods, twisting and fiddling with his fingers.

“Dunno why I’m nervy.”

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“Hey, I get it. I was that way both with my engagement and my divorce,” Em smiles comfortingly, reaching for his hand. “Take all the time you need; we won’t snitch. I won’t even tell Leo”

“Thanks sis.” Mikey squeezes her hand with a smile.

A few days after their lunch, Beau gets a text message from Em. He doesn’t recall giving her his number, before remembering that Mikey put them in a chat, so she evidently got it from there

Hey, Beau, it’s em! Ca va?

I wanted to offer if you want to come over for the afternoon? I get if it feels weird since Mikey’s busy so you’d be on your own probably, but Luna had a half day at work and Olive with school, and I figured I’d offer

Bonus, we have fresh cookies

Xoxo

@just-a-fucking-civilian

Beau gets the message on the way home from his shift. He smiles, and some nerves bubble up.

He takes a breath and types a reply.

Oui, ca va. Et toi? I’d love to come over, just let me run home and shower. Would you like me to bring anything?

Xoxo

He saves Em’s number properly, as he reaches the apartment building.

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Tres bien, merci! And no need at all, we just did some shopping so everything is fully provisioned!

Em lives in a nice building, upper middle class easily. Beau can remember his fiance mentioning that her ex is wealthy, and left her in possibly an even more favorable situation. It’s got a doorman, and he passes nice amenities. Em lives in the penthouse of the lovely brick and glass building, and it’s impressive.

As he arrives he can hear laughter from inside, and the sounds of a familiar nursery rhyme, a baby bouncing song from France his mother used to sing

He smiles, the familiar song making him feel a little more relaxed. He knocks patiently, rocking back on his heels a little.

Despite what Em said, he picked up some chocolate and candy on his trip over.

A young woman opens the door with a smile, with wavy brown hair down her back and bright lavender eyes, smiling warmly.

“You must be Uncle Mikey’s dreamer boy?” She swings the door open, and the little girl on Em’s lap jumps up. She must be about three, racing up and hiding behind the younger woman’s leg, head peaking out curiously as Em smiles lovingly.

“Beau! It’s so good to see you — meet my eldest, our lovely Luna, my baby, Lucie.” She smiles proudly. “Olive said she wants to meet you, but she doesn’t get home for a bit”

“Uhh, well yeah, I guess I am.” He smiles at Luna.

“I’m Beau.”

He steps in a little and waves to Em.

“Hey, nice to see you too. That’s alright, I’d love to meet her too.”

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“I’m Luna,” she smiles. “Come in? We have tea and coffee and-”

“Luna, honey, it’s okay,” Em cuts in, gently touching her daughter’s shoulder. “Trust me, lovey. You aren’t with them anyone, remember? You can offer things but I promise, you don’t have to do any of that, okay? It’s okay to be nervous but you don’t have to panic, promise,” she murmurs, as Luna nods shyly

Beau smiles softly, shifting his body language.

“That’s kind of you to offer Luna. I had a coffee not long before the end of my shift. Would you like a chocolate?” He holds out the bag of treats, keeping a respectful distance of Luna’s space.

Luna softens, relaxing slowly. “I’d love one, thank you. What do you do for work?” She asks curiously, as they all move over to the couches

Beau sits carefully, after everyone else has sat.

“I’m a surgeon.” He smiles, “I specialised in cardio thoracic, I transferred to Metro-General.”

“That is… a lot of big words,” she smiles. “So, heart stuff? That’s pretty cool””

“Yes, sorry, heart stuff, lung stuff, chest stuff.” He smiles.

He places the chocolates on the coffee table.

“You do tattoos, yeah?”

CW: Child Abuse

“Like the people who fixed Lucie’s lung after The Reverend collapsed it by accident,” Luna hums, cuddling her little sister

“Yeah! I’ve been learning since I was twelve but I was just apprenticed, I got my license a few months ago”

“And is it okay now?” Beau asks, giving Lucie a smile.

“That’s awesome. Mikey said you’d done a couple of his, they’re amazing.”

“It is,” Luna confirms, grinning as Lucie comes up to Beau shyly and holds out a tangle toy she’d been messing with

“I did, we had a really fun time I think. I liked getting the chance to just chat and stuff, and I’m really proud. There some of my best work, I think”

Beau smiles at the little girl.

“Wow, that’s a cool tangle.” He speaks softly and gently.

“You should be really proud.” He smiles at Luna.

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As Lucie grins, the front door opens, and a teenage girl with warm brown skin appears, hands stuffed in a hoodie as she carefully puts her shoes away

When she spots Beau, she takes a deep breath and gives a little wave, then walks into the kitchen, giving little glances out of the open area above the counter while she finds a snack

Beau smiles and waves to her, returning to playing with Lucie.

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“How’s your new job been?” Em asks with a smile

“Busy, but I’m aiming for head of the department one day.” He smiles, as Lucie hands him a doll and he makes it dance for her.

“It’s definitely different living here.”

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“You’ll do amazing,” Em assured him, laughing softly as Lucie grins. “Yeah, it’s a unique kind of crazy here”

“Mmm, not surfing after a shift is probably what I miss most.”

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“We’ll go to New Jersey when it warms up, you can there,” Em smiles. “I grew up in Boston, but it’s still odd how different it is only a few hours away”

“It’s crazy.” He smiles back.

“Mikey’s trying to decorate the apartment and wedding plan. Still haven’t set a date but we’ve got a better idea of when at least. I’m trying to convince him to just do one thing at a time.”

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“Yeah, honestly with the genes in there I don’t think it’ll work,” Em chuckles. “I moved to New York for college, adopted two kids barely after graduating while in the middle of the chaotic start to my first serious and good relationship, running two theater programs and getting Leo through rehab with Mom and Dad. I think we’re incapable of picking one thing at a time”

“Wow, okay then. You’re as bad as each other.” He teases gently.

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Em laughs. “Trust me, I know”

“Thank you, for inviting me over.”

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“Of course, I’m glad you decided to come.” She smiles as the girl from the kitchen wanders over tentatively, slowly sitting down next to Em

“Mikey said your aunt moved in next door to your parents?” He waits for the girl to initiate any contact, not wanting to make her uncomfortable.

“She sounds lovely.”

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“She did, she’s amazing. She’s sort of a variant of dad, she’s a blast. Both four to five times my age and also about my age, depending,” Em chuckles

“The super soldier thing really messes with age I guess.” He shrugs.

“So she’s both older than me and younger than me?”

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“That and cryofreeze on and off for roughly a century,” she nods. “Yeah, basically”

“That’s going to take a while to wrap my head around.” He shakes his head a little.

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“Yeah, it does,” em chuckles

“People can be weird about age.”

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“And it’s definitely weirder when someone has two ages at once”

“Yeah, the cryo stuff came up a lot at medical school.” Beau still twirls the doll in his hands as Lucie scampers off looking for something.

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“What was medical school like?” The teen asks quietly, her voice tentative, as if she’s worried to make too much sound

“Hectic. A lot of the stereotypes are true, I lived off coffee and scrambled egg bagels most of the time. If anyone was asking for advice, I’d say it’s important that it’s something you are passionate about, have hobbies and things you enjoy away from study, and try to find a good mentor.”

He gives her a small smile, keeps his body language calm and open, speaks in a gentle, soothing tone.

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Olive nods quietly. “I think about being a nurse sometimes. Maybe pediatrics”

“Yeah? It’s an interesting part of medicine, and working with kids is a whole different experience. Sometimes I get called in to help.”

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“Yeah? Kids tend to be crazy… I remember I always was at the doctor’s, when I was able to go”

“There’s that, but also the medical and biological aspects are a little different too. Things can change so much faster.” Beau explains.

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“Yeah?”

“Yeah.” He smiles at her again.

“You know, there’s a work experience program if you’re ever interested.”

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Olive perks up. “Really?”

“Yeah! Obviously for privacy reasons there’s some things you can’t be involved in. But it’s a lot of behind the scenes stuff, how the hospital runs, what different jobs are.”

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Olive nods. “That sounds really interesting”

“How about I send Em the information and the supervisor’s contact details?” He offers.

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“Really? That would be amazing!”

“Not a problem, I can write your entry reference if you need.”

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“You… you probably shouldn’t. It’ll look bad for you when they get my background check,” Olive says softly

“The offer’s there if you need it.” He says gently, not pushing.

“I can grab the info on my next shift.” He smiles to Em, “I’ll text it to you.”

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“Thank you,” she says softly.

When a timer goes off in the kitchen, she smiles. “My tea’s steeped… I’ll be right back”

He returns the smile warmly.

“Sure thing.”

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When she steps away, Em breaks into a grin. “You’re a magician, I swear,” she says softly. “That’s the most she’s talked all week”

“No magic, just practice I guess.” Beau smiles back.

“She seems like a great kid.”

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“Also I think just… everyone here knows where she came from. You talked with her. I think it helps,” Em smiles. “She is, she’s my cousin. Hitchhiked here from Arizona. She’s doing so well here”

“Wow, that’s a long way!” He blinks a little.

His phone buzzes and he smiles when he sees Mikey’s name.

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“Yeah, she. Well, she approved the version I’m about to tel you, the rest is all her. She grew up in a trap house, with one of my aunts and an uncle and god knows who else. Her record is a mess because she was stealing food to eat and has a list of misdemeanors long enough to make Lucie into a mummy. She was born with a lot of vulnerabilities due to her mom’s addictions, and her past is something we have to fight every step,” Em explains

“But she’s also obviously more. She’s brilliant, if we can get around the record she could probably go to an ivy. She loves kids and wants to be a nurse or councilor, she loves drawing. She and Luna are thick as thieves, they’re practically sharing a room even though Olive has her own, but it’s more her own den. Shes amazing”

“I’m glad she has you guys.” He nods.

“I think she can do it, I think she’s a lot stronger than she believes.”

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“I think so too,” Em agrees. “She’s getting used to normal life, I think she’s loving having a big family. Especially since we encourage her to come and go as she likes”

“Independence and freedom of choice are so important.” Beau agrees.

His phone buzzes again.

“Mikes wants to know if you guys would like him to bring takeout over for dinner?”

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“As you can see, she’s definitely benefiting. She tends to come in and out or sit nearby whenever there’s people around. Honestly it makes me proud, that she’s learning to listen to herself.”

Em grins. “Yes, absolutely. Indian, maybe?”

“It’s awesome, and you should be proud of yourself too.” He smiles.

“I could absolutely smash a chicken madras.” He grins back and texts Mikey back.

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“Aww, thank you”

Em smiles. “Lunita! Lucie! Olive! What do you want for Indian?” She calls out

Beau opens his notes app to type in all the orders to send to Mikey.

He grins as the girls come in, Lucie barrelling straight for Em’s legs.

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Em grins and squeals, picking Lucie up and air-planing her over her head as the toddler kicks and squeals happily. “Do you want samosas baby?” She coos. “You wanna have some samosas with us? And cheesy na’an?”

As Luna and Olive politely ask for their picks, Em adds on one or two appetizers to split amongst the group, grinning as Lucie climbs all over her

Beau grins, noting everything down.

“Alright, last call before I send it to Mikey!”

He watches Em and Lucie with a soft smile, something twisting in his chest.

“That’s everything, I think,” Luna grins, dragging Olive down onto the couch to tickle her

“Awesome!” He sends the list to Mikey, it buzzes shortly after.

“ETA one hour!” He grins.

“Want to play a board game?” Luna offers. “I just got one that I think could be fun”

“Sure!” He nods.

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Em sits down with them, pulling Lucie into her lap as they all go over the rules

Beau listens carefully, sitting between Luna and Em.

He takes his phone off vibrate in case he misses a call from Mikey.

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When Mikey arrives, he arrives to laughter, with his fiance laughing with his family as Em and Beau playfully bicker in French about a captured piece, and Luna and Olive giggle conspiratorially

“Hmm, my chaos senses are tingling!” Mikey grins, arms full of takeout bags.

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Em laughs, as Lucie runs at him eagerly she takes some of the bags off his hands. “Hey there, mon frere,” she smiles. “Come join?”

“Hey sis.” He smiles, watching Lucie carefully.

“What’s the game?”

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“Some sort of fantasy combat game where we’re all golems trying to protect our territory,” Em replies. “Which will now have to be put on hold” she adds intentionally, with a tone that sounds so much like Lina it’s impressive

The similarity strikes Mikey and he hides a snicker as the girls respond.

Beau gets up and helps Mikey with the food.

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Em smiles fondly, helping to set food out on the table as they all settle in

Mikey sits next to Beau and instinctively Beau leans over and kisses Mikey’s forehead.

Mikey goes a little pink and clears his throat.

“So, umm, everyone have a good day?”

Luna grins softly, whispering something to Olive that makes the younger girl blush a bit.

“I did, I had the day off so it was pretty calm”

“That’s good.” He nods, passing some rice along and helping Lucie get some samosas.

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“And Mr. Kleiss told me about an internship program at the hospital,” Olive adds softly

“Just Beau is fine, Olive.” Beau smiles gently.

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“Okay, Mr- Beau,” Olive corrects shyly, smiling a little

Beau smiles and offers Olive the rice.

Mikey has a few bites of his food then asks Em.

“What do you think I should put in groomsmen boxes for Leo and Wyatt? I’ve looked online but it’s all alcohol based stuff.”

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Em considers. “Mini Lego sets, maybe? They both like puzzles or making things, or if you wanted something a little nicer or more practical you could do like cufflinks or a lapel pin? That they can use at the wedding?”

“Yeah…good idea.” Mikey grins, tearing some na’an.

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“Alternatively, you can just give them both nerf guns, say they’re your groomsmen, and let them loose in the yard?”

Mikey grins mischievously.

“Ooh that works!”

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Em laughs. “Look, I have no idea what they’d be fighting for but I say go for it either way”

Beau grins and casually wraps an arm around Mikey’s shoulders.

“Your family sounds wonderful.”

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“The are,” Olive replies softly

Beau smiles.

“I’m glad.”

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She reaches for a pitcher of water, refilling her glass and then Luna’s when she notices it’s empty. “Do you like cats?”

“I like animals.” He nods, “We have a puppy.”

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“Really? What kind?”

She grins shyly as a large cat walks into the room, a Mane Coon who is soon up on her lap and lazily purring, very much pleased. “This is my cat”

“Hey kitty.” Beau coos to the cat.

“Puddles is a cocker spaniel.”

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The cat winds over, nudging at his hand. “This is EmmaL

Beau scratches behind the cat’s ears and coos lovingly in French.

“Uncle Mikey, does Babacia know you’re engaged yet?” Luna asks curiously

Mikey unconsciously shifts closer to Beau, and chews his lip.

“Not exactly.”

Luna nods. “Okay, I won’t say anything then”

Mikey gives her an appreciative smile, as Beau leans closer and kisses Mikey’s forehead again.

“You do need to talk to her, mon cœur.” He says gently.

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“She’ll be happy, don’t worry,” em murmurs. “Whenever you do it, she’ll be over the moon”

Mikey nods, twisting and fiddling with his fingers.

“Dunno why I’m nervy.”

A few days after their lunch, Beau gets a text message from Em. He doesn’t recall giving her his number, before remembering that Mikey put them in a chat, so she evidently got it from there

Hey, Beau, it’s em! Ca va?

I wanted to offer if you want to come over for the afternoon? I get if it feels weird since Mikey’s busy so you’d be on your own probably, but Luna had a half day at work and Olive with school, and I figured I’d offer

Bonus, we have fresh cookies

Xoxo

@just-a-fucking-civilian

Beau gets the message on the way home from his shift. He smiles, and some nerves bubble up.

He takes a breath and types a reply.

Oui, ca va. Et toi? I’d love to come over, just let me run home and shower. Would you like me to bring anything?

Xoxo

He saves Em’s number properly, as he reaches the apartment building.

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Tres bien, merci! And no need at all, we just did some shopping so everything is fully provisioned!

Em lives in a nice building, upper middle class easily. Beau can remember his fiance mentioning that her ex is wealthy, and left her in possibly an even more favorable situation. It’s got a doorman, and he passes nice amenities. Em lives in the penthouse of the lovely brick and glass building, and it’s impressive.

As he arrives he can hear laughter from inside, and the sounds of a familiar nursery rhyme, a baby bouncing song from France his mother used to sing

He smiles, the familiar song making him feel a little more relaxed. He knocks patiently, rocking back on his heels a little.

Despite what Em said, he picked up some chocolate and candy on his trip over.

A young woman opens the door with a smile, with wavy brown hair down her back and bright lavender eyes, smiling warmly.

“You must be Uncle Mikey’s dreamer boy?” She swings the door open, and the little girl on Em’s lap jumps up. She must be about three, racing up and hiding behind the younger woman’s leg, head peaking out curiously as Em smiles lovingly.

“Beau! It’s so good to see you — meet my eldest, our lovely Luna, my baby, Lucie.” She smiles proudly. “Olive said she wants to meet you, but she doesn’t get home for a bit”

“Uhh, well yeah, I guess I am.” He smiles at Luna.

“I’m Beau.”

He steps in a little and waves to Em.

“Hey, nice to see you too. That’s alright, I’d love to meet her too.”

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“I’m Luna,” she smiles. “Come in? We have tea and coffee and-”

“Luna, honey, it’s okay,” Em cuts in, gently touching her daughter’s shoulder. “Trust me, lovey. You aren’t with them anyone, remember? You can offer things but I promise, you don’t have to do any of that, okay? It’s okay to be nervous but you don’t have to panic, promise,” she murmurs, as Luna nods shyly

Beau smiles softly, shifting his body language.

“That’s kind of you to offer Luna. I had a coffee not long before the end of my shift. Would you like a chocolate?” He holds out the bag of treats, keeping a respectful distance of Luna’s space.

Luna softens, relaxing slowly. “I’d love one, thank you. What do you do for work?” She asks curiously, as they all move over to the couches

Beau sits carefully, after everyone else has sat.

“I’m a surgeon.” He smiles, “I specialised in cardio thoracic, I transferred to Metro-General.”

“That is… a lot of big words,” she smiles. “So, heart stuff? That’s pretty cool””

“Yes, sorry, heart stuff, lung stuff, chest stuff.” He smiles.

He places the chocolates on the coffee table.

“You do tattoos, yeah?”

CW: Child Abuse

“Like the people who fixed Lucie’s lung after The Reverend collapsed it by accident,” Luna hums, cuddling her little sister

“Yeah! I’ve been learning since I was twelve but I was just apprenticed, I got my license a few months ago”

“And is it okay now?” Beau asks, giving Lucie a smile.

“That’s awesome. Mikey said you’d done a couple of his, they’re amazing.”

“It is,” Luna confirms, grinning as Lucie comes up to Beau shyly and holds out a tangle toy she’d been messing with

“I did, we had a really fun time I think. I liked getting the chance to just chat and stuff, and I’m really proud. There some of my best work, I think”

Beau smiles at the little girl.

“Wow, that’s a cool tangle.” He speaks softly and gently.

“You should be really proud.” He smiles at Luna.

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As Lucie grins, the front door opens, and a teenage girl with warm brown skin appears, hands stuffed in a hoodie as she carefully puts her shoes away

When she spots Beau, she takes a deep breath and gives a little wave, then walks into the kitchen, giving little glances out of the open area above the counter while she finds a snack

Beau smiles and waves to her, returning to playing with Lucie.

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“How’s your new job been?” Em asks with a smile

“Busy, but I’m aiming for head of the department one day.” He smiles, as Lucie hands him a doll and he makes it dance for her.

“It’s definitely different living here.”

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“You’ll do amazing,” Em assured him, laughing softly as Lucie grins. “Yeah, it’s a unique kind of crazy here”

“Mmm, not surfing after a shift is probably what I miss most.”

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“We’ll go to New Jersey when it warms up, you can there,” Em smiles. “I grew up in Boston, but it’s still odd how different it is only a few hours away”

“It’s crazy.” He smiles back.

“Mikey’s trying to decorate the apartment and wedding plan. Still haven’t set a date but we’ve got a better idea of when at least. I’m trying to convince him to just do one thing at a time.”

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“Yeah, honestly with the genes in there I don’t think it’ll work,” Em chuckles. “I moved to New York for college, adopted two kids barely after graduating while in the middle of the chaotic start to my first serious and good relationship, running two theater programs and getting Leo through rehab with Mom and Dad. I think we’re incapable of picking one thing at a time”

“Wow, okay then. You’re as bad as each other.” He teases gently.

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Em laughs. “Trust me, I know”

“Thank you, for inviting me over.”

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“Of course, I’m glad you decided to come.” She smiles as the girl from the kitchen wanders over tentatively, slowly sitting down next to Em

“Mikey said your aunt moved in next door to your parents?” He waits for the girl to initiate any contact, not wanting to make her uncomfortable.

“She sounds lovely.”

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“She did, she’s amazing. She’s sort of a variant of dad, she’s a blast. Both four to five times my age and also about my age, depending,” Em chuckles

“The super soldier thing really messes with age I guess.” He shrugs.

“So she’s both older than me and younger than me?”

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“That and cryofreeze on and off for roughly a century,” she nods. “Yeah, basically”

“That’s going to take a while to wrap my head around.” He shakes his head a little.

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“Yeah, it does,” em chuckles

“People can be weird about age.”

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“And it’s definitely weirder when someone has two ages at once”

“Yeah, the cryo stuff came up a lot at medical school.” Beau still twirls the doll in his hands as Lucie scampers off looking for something.

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“What was medical school like?” The teen asks quietly, her voice tentative, as if she’s worried to make too much sound

“Hectic. A lot of the stereotypes are true, I lived off coffee and scrambled egg bagels most of the time. If anyone was asking for advice, I’d say it’s important that it’s something you are passionate about, have hobbies and things you enjoy away from study, and try to find a good mentor.”

He gives her a small smile, keeps his body language calm and open, speaks in a gentle, soothing tone.

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Olive nods quietly. “I think about being a nurse sometimes. Maybe pediatrics”

“Yeah? It’s an interesting part of medicine, and working with kids is a whole different experience. Sometimes I get called in to help.”

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“Yeah? Kids tend to be crazy… I remember I always was at the doctor’s, when I was able to go”

“There’s that, but also the medical and biological aspects are a little different too. Things can change so much faster.” Beau explains.

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“Yeah?”

“Yeah.” He smiles at her again.

“You know, there’s a work experience program if you’re ever interested.”

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Olive perks up. “Really?”

“Yeah! Obviously for privacy reasons there’s some things you can’t be involved in. But it’s a lot of behind the scenes stuff, how the hospital runs, what different jobs are.”

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Olive nods. “That sounds really interesting”

“How about I send Em the information and the supervisor’s contact details?” He offers.

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“Really? That would be amazing!”

“Not a problem, I can write your entry reference if you need.”

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“You… you probably shouldn’t. It’ll look bad for you when they get my background check,” Olive says softly

“The offer’s there if you need it.” He says gently, not pushing.

“I can grab the info on my next shift.” He smiles to Em, “I’ll text it to you.”

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“Thank you,” she says softly.

When a timer goes off in the kitchen, she smiles. “My tea’s steeped… I’ll be right back”

He returns the smile warmly.

“Sure thing.”

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When she steps away, Em breaks into a grin. “You’re a magician, I swear,” she says softly. “That’s the most she’s talked all week”

“No magic, just practice I guess.” Beau smiles back.

“She seems like a great kid.”

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“Also I think just… everyone here knows where she came from. You talked with her. I think it helps,” Em smiles. “She is, she’s my cousin. Hitchhiked here from Arizona. She’s doing so well here”

“Wow, that’s a long way!” He blinks a little.

His phone buzzes and he smiles when he sees Mikey’s name.

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“Yeah, she. Well, she approved the version I’m about to tel you, the rest is all her. She grew up in a trap house, with one of my aunts and an uncle and god knows who else. Her record is a mess because she was stealing food to eat and has a list of misdemeanors long enough to make Lucie into a mummy. She was born with a lot of vulnerabilities due to her mom’s addictions, and her past is something we have to fight every step,” Em explains

“But she’s also obviously more. She’s brilliant, if we can get around the record she could probably go to an ivy. She loves kids and wants to be a nurse or councilor, she loves drawing. She and Luna are thick as thieves, they’re practically sharing a room even though Olive has her own, but it’s more her own den. Shes amazing”

“I’m glad she has you guys.” He nods.

“I think she can do it, I think she’s a lot stronger than she believes.”

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“I think so too,” Em agrees. “She’s getting used to normal life, I think she’s loving having a big family. Especially since we encourage her to come and go as she likes”

“Independence and freedom of choice are so important.” Beau agrees.

His phone buzzes again.

“Mikes wants to know if you guys would like him to bring takeout over for dinner?”

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“As you can see, she’s definitely benefiting. She tends to come in and out or sit nearby whenever there’s people around. Honestly it makes me proud, that she’s learning to listen to herself.”

Em grins. “Yes, absolutely. Indian, maybe?”

“It’s awesome, and you should be proud of yourself too.” He smiles.

“I could absolutely smash a chicken madras.” He grins back and texts Mikey back.

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“Aww, thank you”

Em smiles. “Lunita! Lucie! Olive! What do you want for Indian?” She calls out

Beau opens his notes app to type in all the orders to send to Mikey.

He grins as the girls come in, Lucie barrelling straight for Em’s legs.

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Em grins and squeals, picking Lucie up and air-planing her over her head as the toddler kicks and squeals happily. “Do you want samosas baby?” She coos. “You wanna have some samosas with us? And cheesy na’an?”

As Luna and Olive politely ask for their picks, Em adds on one or two appetizers to split amongst the group, grinning as Lucie climbs all over her

Beau grins, noting everything down.

“Alright, last call before I send it to Mikey!”

He watches Em and Lucie with a soft smile, something twisting in his chest.

“That’s everything, I think,” Luna grins, dragging Olive down onto the couch to tickle her

“Awesome!” He sends the list to Mikey, it buzzes shortly after.

“ETA one hour!” He grins.

“Want to play a board game?” Luna offers. “I just got one that I think could be fun”

“Sure!” He nods.

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Em sits down with them, pulling Lucie into her lap as they all go over the rules

Beau listens carefully, sitting between Luna and Em.

He takes his phone off vibrate in case he misses a call from Mikey.

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When Mikey arrives, he arrives to laughter, with his fiance laughing with his family as Em and Beau playfully bicker in French about a captured piece, and Luna and Olive giggle conspiratorially

“Hmm, my chaos senses are tingling!” Mikey grins, arms full of takeout bags.

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Em laughs, as Lucie runs at him eagerly she takes some of the bags off his hands. “Hey there, mon frere,” she smiles. “Come join?”

“Hey sis.” He smiles, watching Lucie carefully.

“What’s the game?”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Some sort of fantasy combat game where we’re all golems trying to protect our territory,” Em replies. “Which will now have to be put on hold” she adds intentionally, with a tone that sounds so much like Lina it’s impressive

The similarity strikes Mikey and he hides a snicker as the girls respond.

Beau gets up and helps Mikey with the food.

just-a-fucking-civilian

Em smiles fondly, helping to set food out on the table as they all settle in

Mikey sits next to Beau and instinctively Beau leans over and kisses Mikey’s forehead.

Mikey goes a little pink and clears his throat.

“So, umm, everyone have a good day?”

Luna grins softly, whispering something to Olive that makes the younger girl blush a bit.

“I did, I had the day off so it was pretty calm”

“That’s good.” He nods, passing some rice along and helping Lucie get some samosas.

gladstone-girl-again

“And Mr. Kleiss told me about an internship program at the hospital,” Olive adds softly

“Just Beau is fine, Olive.” Beau smiles gently.

gladstone-girl-again

“Okay, Mr- Beau,” Olive corrects shyly, smiling a little

Beau smiles and offers Olive the rice.

Mikey has a few bites of his food then asks Em.

“What do you think I should put in groomsmen boxes for Leo and Wyatt? I’ve looked online but it’s all alcohol based stuff.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

Em considers. “Mini Lego sets, maybe? They both like puzzles or making things, or if you wanted something a little nicer or more practical you could do like cufflinks or a lapel pin? That they can use at the wedding?”

“Yeah…good idea.” Mikey grins, tearing some na’an.

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Alternatively, you can just give them both nerf guns, say they’re your groomsmen, and let them loose in the yard?”

Mikey grins mischievously.

“Ooh that works!”

just-a-fucking-civilian

Em laughs. “Look, I have no idea what they’d be fighting for but I say go for it either way”

Beau grins and casually wraps an arm around Mikey’s shoulders.

“Your family sounds wonderful.”

gladstone-girl-again

“The are,” Olive replies softly

Beau smiles.

“I’m glad.”

gladstone-girl-again

She reaches for a pitcher of water, refilling her glass and then Luna’s when she notices it’s empty. “Do you like cats?”

“I like animals.” He nods, “We have a puppy.”

gladstone-girl-again

“Really? What kind?”

She grins shyly as a large cat walks into the room, a Mane Coon who is soon up on her lap and lazily purring, very much pleased. “This is my cat”

“Hey kitty.” Beau coos to the cat.

“Puddles is a cocker spaniel.”

gladstone-girl-again

The cat winds over, nudging at his hand. “This is EmmaL

Beau scratches behind the cat’s ears and coos lovingly in French.

“Uncle Mikey, does Babacia know you’re engaged yet?” Luna asks curiously

Mikey unconsciously shifts closer to Beau, and chews his lip.

“Not exactly.”

A few days after their lunch, Beau gets a text message from Em. He doesn’t recall giving her his number, before remembering that Mikey put them in a chat, so she evidently got it from there

Hey, Beau, it’s em! Ca va?

I wanted to offer if you want to come over for the afternoon? I get if it feels weird since Mikey’s busy so you’d be on your own probably, but Luna had a half day at work and Olive with school, and I figured I’d offer

Bonus, we have fresh cookies

Xoxo

@just-a-fucking-civilian

Beau gets the message on the way home from his shift. He smiles, and some nerves bubble up.

He takes a breath and types a reply.

Oui, ca va. Et toi? I’d love to come over, just let me run home and shower. Would you like me to bring anything?

Xoxo

He saves Em’s number properly, as he reaches the apartment building.

just-a-fucking-civilian

Tres bien, merci! And no need at all, we just did some shopping so everything is fully provisioned!

Em lives in a nice building, upper middle class easily. Beau can remember his fiance mentioning that her ex is wealthy, and left her in possibly an even more favorable situation. It’s got a doorman, and he passes nice amenities. Em lives in the penthouse of the lovely brick and glass building, and it’s impressive.

As he arrives he can hear laughter from inside, and the sounds of a familiar nursery rhyme, a baby bouncing song from France his mother used to sing

He smiles, the familiar song making him feel a little more relaxed. He knocks patiently, rocking back on his heels a little.

Despite what Em said, he picked up some chocolate and candy on his trip over.

A young woman opens the door with a smile, with wavy brown hair down her back and bright lavender eyes, smiling warmly.

“You must be Uncle Mikey’s dreamer boy?” She swings the door open, and the little girl on Em’s lap jumps up. She must be about three, racing up and hiding behind the younger woman’s leg, head peaking out curiously as Em smiles lovingly.

“Beau! It’s so good to see you — meet my eldest, our lovely Luna, my baby, Lucie.” She smiles proudly. “Olive said she wants to meet you, but she doesn’t get home for a bit”

“Uhh, well yeah, I guess I am.” He smiles at Luna.

“I’m Beau.”

He steps in a little and waves to Em.

“Hey, nice to see you too. That’s alright, I’d love to meet her too.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“I’m Luna,” she smiles. “Come in? We have tea and coffee and-”

“Luna, honey, it’s okay,” Em cuts in, gently touching her daughter’s shoulder. “Trust me, lovey. You aren’t with them anyone, remember? You can offer things but I promise, you don’t have to do any of that, okay? It’s okay to be nervous but you don’t have to panic, promise,” she murmurs, as Luna nods shyly

Beau smiles softly, shifting his body language.

“That’s kind of you to offer Luna. I had a coffee not long before the end of my shift. Would you like a chocolate?” He holds out the bag of treats, keeping a respectful distance of Luna’s space.

Luna softens, relaxing slowly. “I’d love one, thank you. What do you do for work?” She asks curiously, as they all move over to the couches

Beau sits carefully, after everyone else has sat.

“I’m a surgeon.” He smiles, “I specialised in cardio thoracic, I transferred to Metro-General.”

“That is… a lot of big words,” she smiles. “So, heart stuff? That’s pretty cool””

“Yes, sorry, heart stuff, lung stuff, chest stuff.” He smiles.

He places the chocolates on the coffee table.

“You do tattoos, yeah?”

CW: Child Abuse

“Like the people who fixed Lucie’s lung after The Reverend collapsed it by accident,” Luna hums, cuddling her little sister

“Yeah! I’ve been learning since I was twelve but I was just apprenticed, I got my license a few months ago”

“And is it okay now?” Beau asks, giving Lucie a smile.

“That’s awesome. Mikey said you’d done a couple of his, they’re amazing.”

“It is,” Luna confirms, grinning as Lucie comes up to Beau shyly and holds out a tangle toy she’d been messing with

“I did, we had a really fun time I think. I liked getting the chance to just chat and stuff, and I’m really proud. There some of my best work, I think”

Beau smiles at the little girl.

“Wow, that’s a cool tangle.” He speaks softly and gently.

“You should be really proud.” He smiles at Luna.

gladstone-girl-again

As Lucie grins, the front door opens, and a teenage girl with warm brown skin appears, hands stuffed in a hoodie as she carefully puts her shoes away

When she spots Beau, she takes a deep breath and gives a little wave, then walks into the kitchen, giving little glances out of the open area above the counter while she finds a snack

Beau smiles and waves to her, returning to playing with Lucie.

just-a-fucking-civilian

“How’s your new job been?” Em asks with a smile

“Busy, but I’m aiming for head of the department one day.” He smiles, as Lucie hands him a doll and he makes it dance for her.

“It’s definitely different living here.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“You’ll do amazing,” Em assured him, laughing softly as Lucie grins. “Yeah, it’s a unique kind of crazy here”

“Mmm, not surfing after a shift is probably what I miss most.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“We’ll go to New Jersey when it warms up, you can there,” Em smiles. “I grew up in Boston, but it’s still odd how different it is only a few hours away”

“It’s crazy.” He smiles back.

“Mikey’s trying to decorate the apartment and wedding plan. Still haven’t set a date but we’ve got a better idea of when at least. I’m trying to convince him to just do one thing at a time.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Yeah, honestly with the genes in there I don’t think it’ll work,” Em chuckles. “I moved to New York for college, adopted two kids barely after graduating while in the middle of the chaotic start to my first serious and good relationship, running two theater programs and getting Leo through rehab with Mom and Dad. I think we’re incapable of picking one thing at a time”

“Wow, okay then. You’re as bad as each other.” He teases gently.

just-a-fucking-civilian

Em laughs. “Trust me, I know”

“Thank you, for inviting me over.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Of course, I’m glad you decided to come.” She smiles as the girl from the kitchen wanders over tentatively, slowly sitting down next to Em

“Mikey said your aunt moved in next door to your parents?” He waits for the girl to initiate any contact, not wanting to make her uncomfortable.

“She sounds lovely.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“She did, she’s amazing. She’s sort of a variant of dad, she’s a blast. Both four to five times my age and also about my age, depending,” Em chuckles

“The super soldier thing really messes with age I guess.” He shrugs.

“So she’s both older than me and younger than me?”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“That and cryofreeze on and off for roughly a century,” she nods. “Yeah, basically”

“That’s going to take a while to wrap my head around.” He shakes his head a little.

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Yeah, it does,” em chuckles

“People can be weird about age.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“And it’s definitely weirder when someone has two ages at once”

“Yeah, the cryo stuff came up a lot at medical school.” Beau still twirls the doll in his hands as Lucie scampers off looking for something.

gladstone-girl-again

“What was medical school like?” The teen asks quietly, her voice tentative, as if she’s worried to make too much sound

“Hectic. A lot of the stereotypes are true, I lived off coffee and scrambled egg bagels most of the time. If anyone was asking for advice, I’d say it’s important that it’s something you are passionate about, have hobbies and things you enjoy away from study, and try to find a good mentor.”

He gives her a small smile, keeps his body language calm and open, speaks in a gentle, soothing tone.

gladstone-girl-again

Olive nods quietly. “I think about being a nurse sometimes. Maybe pediatrics”

“Yeah? It’s an interesting part of medicine, and working with kids is a whole different experience. Sometimes I get called in to help.”

gladstone-girl-again

“Yeah? Kids tend to be crazy… I remember I always was at the doctor’s, when I was able to go”

“There’s that, but also the medical and biological aspects are a little different too. Things can change so much faster.” Beau explains.

gladstone-girl-again

“Yeah?”

“Yeah.” He smiles at her again.

“You know, there’s a work experience program if you’re ever interested.”

gladstone-girl-again

Olive perks up. “Really?”

“Yeah! Obviously for privacy reasons there’s some things you can’t be involved in. But it’s a lot of behind the scenes stuff, how the hospital runs, what different jobs are.”

gladstone-girl-again

Olive nods. “That sounds really interesting”

“How about I send Em the information and the supervisor’s contact details?” He offers.

gladstone-girl-again

“Really? That would be amazing!”

“Not a problem, I can write your entry reference if you need.”

gladstone-girl-again

“You… you probably shouldn’t. It’ll look bad for you when they get my background check,” Olive says softly

“The offer’s there if you need it.” He says gently, not pushing.

“I can grab the info on my next shift.” He smiles to Em, “I’ll text it to you.”

gladstone-girl-again

“Thank you,” she says softly.

When a timer goes off in the kitchen, she smiles. “My tea’s steeped… I’ll be right back”

He returns the smile warmly.

“Sure thing.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

When she steps away, Em breaks into a grin. “You’re a magician, I swear,” she says softly. “That’s the most she’s talked all week”

“No magic, just practice I guess.” Beau smiles back.

“She seems like a great kid.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Also I think just… everyone here knows where she came from. You talked with her. I think it helps,” Em smiles. “She is, she’s my cousin. Hitchhiked here from Arizona. She’s doing so well here”

“Wow, that’s a long way!” He blinks a little.

His phone buzzes and he smiles when he sees Mikey’s name.

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Yeah, she. Well, she approved the version I’m about to tel you, the rest is all her. She grew up in a trap house, with one of my aunts and an uncle and god knows who else. Her record is a mess because she was stealing food to eat and has a list of misdemeanors long enough to make Lucie into a mummy. She was born with a lot of vulnerabilities due to her mom’s addictions, and her past is something we have to fight every step,” Em explains

“But she’s also obviously more. She’s brilliant, if we can get around the record she could probably go to an ivy. She loves kids and wants to be a nurse or councilor, she loves drawing. She and Luna are thick as thieves, they’re practically sharing a room even though Olive has her own, but it’s more her own den. Shes amazing”

“I’m glad she has you guys.” He nods.

“I think she can do it, I think she’s a lot stronger than she believes.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“I think so too,” Em agrees. “She’s getting used to normal life, I think she’s loving having a big family. Especially since we encourage her to come and go as she likes”

“Independence and freedom of choice are so important.” Beau agrees.

His phone buzzes again.

“Mikes wants to know if you guys would like him to bring takeout over for dinner?”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“As you can see, she’s definitely benefiting. She tends to come in and out or sit nearby whenever there’s people around. Honestly it makes me proud, that she’s learning to listen to herself.”

Em grins. “Yes, absolutely. Indian, maybe?”

“It’s awesome, and you should be proud of yourself too.” He smiles.

“I could absolutely smash a chicken madras.” He grins back and texts Mikey back.

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Aww, thank you”

Em smiles. “Lunita! Lucie! Olive! What do you want for Indian?” She calls out

Beau opens his notes app to type in all the orders to send to Mikey.

He grins as the girls come in, Lucie barrelling straight for Em’s legs.

just-a-fucking-civilian

Em grins and squeals, picking Lucie up and air-planing her over her head as the toddler kicks and squeals happily. “Do you want samosas baby?” She coos. “You wanna have some samosas with us? And cheesy na’an?”

As Luna and Olive politely ask for their picks, Em adds on one or two appetizers to split amongst the group, grinning as Lucie climbs all over her

Beau grins, noting everything down.

“Alright, last call before I send it to Mikey!”

He watches Em and Lucie with a soft smile, something twisting in his chest.

“That’s everything, I think,” Luna grins, dragging Olive down onto the couch to tickle her

“Awesome!” He sends the list to Mikey, it buzzes shortly after.

“ETA one hour!” He grins.

“Want to play a board game?” Luna offers. “I just got one that I think could be fun”

“Sure!” He nods.

just-a-fucking-civilian

Em sits down with them, pulling Lucie into her lap as they all go over the rules

Beau listens carefully, sitting between Luna and Em.

He takes his phone off vibrate in case he misses a call from Mikey.

just-a-fucking-civilian

When Mikey arrives, he arrives to laughter, with his fiance laughing with his family as Em and Beau playfully bicker in French about a captured piece, and Luna and Olive giggle conspiratorially

“Hmm, my chaos senses are tingling!” Mikey grins, arms full of takeout bags.

just-a-fucking-civilian

Em laughs, as Lucie runs at him eagerly she takes some of the bags off his hands. “Hey there, mon frere,” she smiles. “Come join?”

“Hey sis.” He smiles, watching Lucie carefully.

“What’s the game?”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Some sort of fantasy combat game where we’re all golems trying to protect our territory,” Em replies. “Which will now have to be put on hold” she adds intentionally, with a tone that sounds so much like Lina it’s impressive

The similarity strikes Mikey and he hides a snicker as the girls respond.

Beau gets up and helps Mikey with the food.

just-a-fucking-civilian

Em smiles fondly, helping to set food out on the table as they all settle in

Mikey sits next to Beau and instinctively Beau leans over and kisses Mikey’s forehead.

Mikey goes a little pink and clears his throat.

“So, umm, everyone have a good day?”

Luna grins softly, whispering something to Olive that makes the younger girl blush a bit.

“I did, I had the day off so it was pretty calm”

“That’s good.” He nods, passing some rice along and helping Lucie get some samosas.

gladstone-girl-again

“And Mr. Kleiss told me about an internship program at the hospital,” Olive adds softly

“Just Beau is fine, Olive.” Beau smiles gently.

gladstone-girl-again

“Okay, Mr- Beau,” Olive corrects shyly, smiling a little

Beau smiles and offers Olive the rice.

Mikey has a few bites of his food then asks Em.

“What do you think I should put in groomsmen boxes for Leo and Wyatt? I’ve looked online but it’s all alcohol based stuff.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

Em considers. “Mini Lego sets, maybe? They both like puzzles or making things, or if you wanted something a little nicer or more practical you could do like cufflinks or a lapel pin? That they can use at the wedding?”

“Yeah…good idea.” Mikey grins, tearing some na’an.

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Alternatively, you can just give them both nerf guns, say they’re your groomsmen, and let them loose in the yard?”

Mikey grins mischievously.

“Ooh that works!”

A few days after their lunch, Beau gets a text message from Em. He doesn’t recall giving her his number, before remembering that Mikey put them in a chat, so she evidently got it from there

Hey, Beau, it’s em! Ca va?

I wanted to offer if you want to come over for the afternoon? I get if it feels weird since Mikey’s busy so you’d be on your own probably, but Luna had a half day at work and Olive with school, and I figured I’d offer

Bonus, we have fresh cookies

Xoxo

@just-a-fucking-civilian

Beau gets the message on the way home from his shift. He smiles, and some nerves bubble up.

He takes a breath and types a reply.

Oui, ca va. Et toi? I’d love to come over, just let me run home and shower. Would you like me to bring anything?

Xoxo

He saves Em’s number properly, as he reaches the apartment building.

just-a-fucking-civilian

Tres bien, merci! And no need at all, we just did some shopping so everything is fully provisioned!

Em lives in a nice building, upper middle class easily. Beau can remember his fiance mentioning that her ex is wealthy, and left her in possibly an even more favorable situation. It’s got a doorman, and he passes nice amenities. Em lives in the penthouse of the lovely brick and glass building, and it’s impressive.

As he arrives he can hear laughter from inside, and the sounds of a familiar nursery rhyme, a baby bouncing song from France his mother used to sing

He smiles, the familiar song making him feel a little more relaxed. He knocks patiently, rocking back on his heels a little.

Despite what Em said, he picked up some chocolate and candy on his trip over.

A young woman opens the door with a smile, with wavy brown hair down her back and bright lavender eyes, smiling warmly.

“You must be Uncle Mikey’s dreamer boy?” She swings the door open, and the little girl on Em’s lap jumps up. She must be about three, racing up and hiding behind the younger woman’s leg, head peaking out curiously as Em smiles lovingly.

“Beau! It’s so good to see you — meet my eldest, our lovely Luna, my baby, Lucie.” She smiles proudly. “Olive said she wants to meet you, but she doesn’t get home for a bit”

“Uhh, well yeah, I guess I am.” He smiles at Luna.

“I’m Beau.”

He steps in a little and waves to Em.

“Hey, nice to see you too. That’s alright, I’d love to meet her too.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“I’m Luna,” she smiles. “Come in? We have tea and coffee and-”

“Luna, honey, it’s okay,” Em cuts in, gently touching her daughter’s shoulder. “Trust me, lovey. You aren’t with them anyone, remember? You can offer things but I promise, you don’t have to do any of that, okay? It’s okay to be nervous but you don’t have to panic, promise,” she murmurs, as Luna nods shyly

Beau smiles softly, shifting his body language.

“That’s kind of you to offer Luna. I had a coffee not long before the end of my shift. Would you like a chocolate?” He holds out the bag of treats, keeping a respectful distance of Luna’s space.

Luna softens, relaxing slowly. “I’d love one, thank you. What do you do for work?” She asks curiously, as they all move over to the couches

Beau sits carefully, after everyone else has sat.

“I’m a surgeon.” He smiles, “I specialised in cardio thoracic, I transferred to Metro-General.”

“That is… a lot of big words,” she smiles. “So, heart stuff? That’s pretty cool””

“Yes, sorry, heart stuff, lung stuff, chest stuff.” He smiles.

He places the chocolates on the coffee table.

“You do tattoos, yeah?”

CW: Child Abuse

“Like the people who fixed Lucie’s lung after The Reverend collapsed it by accident,” Luna hums, cuddling her little sister

“Yeah! I’ve been learning since I was twelve but I was just apprenticed, I got my license a few months ago”

“And is it okay now?” Beau asks, giving Lucie a smile.

“That’s awesome. Mikey said you’d done a couple of his, they’re amazing.”

“It is,” Luna confirms, grinning as Lucie comes up to Beau shyly and holds out a tangle toy she’d been messing with

“I did, we had a really fun time I think. I liked getting the chance to just chat and stuff, and I’m really proud. There some of my best work, I think”

Beau smiles at the little girl.

“Wow, that’s a cool tangle.” He speaks softly and gently.

“You should be really proud.” He smiles at Luna.

gladstone-girl-again

As Lucie grins, the front door opens, and a teenage girl with warm brown skin appears, hands stuffed in a hoodie as she carefully puts her shoes away

When she spots Beau, she takes a deep breath and gives a little wave, then walks into the kitchen, giving little glances out of the open area above the counter while she finds a snack

Beau smiles and waves to her, returning to playing with Lucie.

just-a-fucking-civilian

“How’s your new job been?” Em asks with a smile

“Busy, but I’m aiming for head of the department one day.” He smiles, as Lucie hands him a doll and he makes it dance for her.

“It’s definitely different living here.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“You’ll do amazing,” Em assured him, laughing softly as Lucie grins. “Yeah, it’s a unique kind of crazy here”

“Mmm, not surfing after a shift is probably what I miss most.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“We’ll go to New Jersey when it warms up, you can there,” Em smiles. “I grew up in Boston, but it’s still odd how different it is only a few hours away”

“It’s crazy.” He smiles back.

“Mikey’s trying to decorate the apartment and wedding plan. Still haven’t set a date but we’ve got a better idea of when at least. I’m trying to convince him to just do one thing at a time.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Yeah, honestly with the genes in there I don’t think it’ll work,” Em chuckles. “I moved to New York for college, adopted two kids barely after graduating while in the middle of the chaotic start to my first serious and good relationship, running two theater programs and getting Leo through rehab with Mom and Dad. I think we’re incapable of picking one thing at a time”

“Wow, okay then. You’re as bad as each other.” He teases gently.

just-a-fucking-civilian

Em laughs. “Trust me, I know”

“Thank you, for inviting me over.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Of course, I’m glad you decided to come.” She smiles as the girl from the kitchen wanders over tentatively, slowly sitting down next to Em

“Mikey said your aunt moved in next door to your parents?” He waits for the girl to initiate any contact, not wanting to make her uncomfortable.

“She sounds lovely.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“She did, she’s amazing. She’s sort of a variant of dad, she’s a blast. Both four to five times my age and also about my age, depending,” Em chuckles

“The super soldier thing really messes with age I guess.” He shrugs.

“So she’s both older than me and younger than me?”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“That and cryofreeze on and off for roughly a century,” she nods. “Yeah, basically”

“That’s going to take a while to wrap my head around.” He shakes his head a little.

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Yeah, it does,” em chuckles

“People can be weird about age.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“And it’s definitely weirder when someone has two ages at once”

“Yeah, the cryo stuff came up a lot at medical school.” Beau still twirls the doll in his hands as Lucie scampers off looking for something.

gladstone-girl-again

“What was medical school like?” The teen asks quietly, her voice tentative, as if she’s worried to make too much sound

“Hectic. A lot of the stereotypes are true, I lived off coffee and scrambled egg bagels most of the time. If anyone was asking for advice, I’d say it’s important that it’s something you are passionate about, have hobbies and things you enjoy away from study, and try to find a good mentor.”

He gives her a small smile, keeps his body language calm and open, speaks in a gentle, soothing tone.

gladstone-girl-again

Olive nods quietly. “I think about being a nurse sometimes. Maybe pediatrics”

“Yeah? It’s an interesting part of medicine, and working with kids is a whole different experience. Sometimes I get called in to help.”

gladstone-girl-again

“Yeah? Kids tend to be crazy… I remember I always was at the doctor’s, when I was able to go”

“There’s that, but also the medical and biological aspects are a little different too. Things can change so much faster.” Beau explains.

gladstone-girl-again

“Yeah?”

“Yeah.” He smiles at her again.

“You know, there’s a work experience program if you’re ever interested.”

gladstone-girl-again

Olive perks up. “Really?”

“Yeah! Obviously for privacy reasons there’s some things you can’t be involved in. But it’s a lot of behind the scenes stuff, how the hospital runs, what different jobs are.”

gladstone-girl-again

Olive nods. “That sounds really interesting”

“How about I send Em the information and the supervisor’s contact details?” He offers.

gladstone-girl-again

“Really? That would be amazing!”

“Not a problem, I can write your entry reference if you need.”

gladstone-girl-again

“You… you probably shouldn’t. It’ll look bad for you when they get my background check,” Olive says softly

“The offer’s there if you need it.” He says gently, not pushing.

“I can grab the info on my next shift.” He smiles to Em, “I’ll text it to you.”

gladstone-girl-again

“Thank you,” she says softly.

When a timer goes off in the kitchen, she smiles. “My tea’s steeped… I’ll be right back”

He returns the smile warmly.

“Sure thing.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

When she steps away, Em breaks into a grin. “You’re a magician, I swear,” she says softly. “That’s the most she’s talked all week”

“No magic, just practice I guess.” Beau smiles back.

“She seems like a great kid.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Also I think just… everyone here knows where she came from. You talked with her. I think it helps,” Em smiles. “She is, she’s my cousin. Hitchhiked here from Arizona. She’s doing so well here”

“Wow, that’s a long way!” He blinks a little.

His phone buzzes and he smiles when he sees Mikey’s name.

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Yeah, she. Well, she approved the version I’m about to tel you, the rest is all her. She grew up in a trap house, with one of my aunts and an uncle and god knows who else. Her record is a mess because she was stealing food to eat and has a list of misdemeanors long enough to make Lucie into a mummy. She was born with a lot of vulnerabilities due to her mom’s addictions, and her past is something we have to fight every step,” Em explains

“But she’s also obviously more. She’s brilliant, if we can get around the record she could probably go to an ivy. She loves kids and wants to be a nurse or councilor, she loves drawing. She and Luna are thick as thieves, they’re practically sharing a room even though Olive has her own, but it’s more her own den. Shes amazing”

“I’m glad she has you guys.” He nods.

“I think she can do it, I think she’s a lot stronger than she believes.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“I think so too,” Em agrees. “She’s getting used to normal life, I think she’s loving having a big family. Especially since we encourage her to come and go as she likes”

“Independence and freedom of choice are so important.” Beau agrees.

His phone buzzes again.

“Mikes wants to know if you guys would like him to bring takeout over for dinner?”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“As you can see, she’s definitely benefiting. She tends to come in and out or sit nearby whenever there’s people around. Honestly it makes me proud, that she’s learning to listen to herself.”

Em grins. “Yes, absolutely. Indian, maybe?”

“It’s awesome, and you should be proud of yourself too.” He smiles.

“I could absolutely smash a chicken madras.” He grins back and texts Mikey back.

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Aww, thank you”

Em smiles. “Lunita! Lucie! Olive! What do you want for Indian?” She calls out

Beau opens his notes app to type in all the orders to send to Mikey.

He grins as the girls come in, Lucie barrelling straight for Em’s legs.

just-a-fucking-civilian

Em grins and squeals, picking Lucie up and air-planing her over her head as the toddler kicks and squeals happily. “Do you want samosas baby?” She coos. “You wanna have some samosas with us? And cheesy na’an?”

As Luna and Olive politely ask for their picks, Em adds on one or two appetizers to split amongst the group, grinning as Lucie climbs all over her

Beau grins, noting everything down.

“Alright, last call before I send it to Mikey!”

He watches Em and Lucie with a soft smile, something twisting in his chest.

“That’s everything, I think,” Luna grins, dragging Olive down onto the couch to tickle her

“Awesome!” He sends the list to Mikey, it buzzes shortly after.

“ETA one hour!” He grins.

“Want to play a board game?” Luna offers. “I just got one that I think could be fun”

“Sure!” He nods.

just-a-fucking-civilian

Em sits down with them, pulling Lucie into her lap as they all go over the rules

Beau listens carefully, sitting between Luna and Em.

He takes his phone off vibrate in case he misses a call from Mikey.

just-a-fucking-civilian

When Mikey arrives, he arrives to laughter, with his fiance laughing with his family as Em and Beau playfully bicker in French about a captured piece, and Luna and Olive giggle conspiratorially

“Hmm, my chaos senses are tingling!” Mikey grins, arms full of takeout bags.

just-a-fucking-civilian

Em laughs, as Lucie runs at him eagerly she takes some of the bags off his hands. “Hey there, mon frere,” she smiles. “Come join?”

“Hey sis.” He smiles, watching Lucie carefully.

“What’s the game?”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Some sort of fantasy combat game where we’re all golems trying to protect our territory,” Em replies. “Which will now have to be put on hold” she adds intentionally, with a tone that sounds so much like Lina it’s impressive

The similarity strikes Mikey and he hides a snicker as the girls respond.

Beau gets up and helps Mikey with the food.

just-a-fucking-civilian

Em smiles fondly, helping to set food out on the table as they all settle in

Mikey sits next to Beau and instinctively Beau leans over and kisses Mikey’s forehead.

Mikey goes a little pink and clears his throat.

“So, umm, everyone have a good day?”

Luna grins softly, whispering something to Olive that makes the younger girl blush a bit.

“I did, I had the day off so it was pretty calm”

“That’s good.” He nods, passing some rice along and helping Lucie get some samosas.

gladstone-girl-again

“And Mr. Kleiss told me about an internship program at the hospital,” Olive adds softly

“Just Beau is fine, Olive.” Beau smiles gently.

gladstone-girl-again

“Okay, Mr- Beau,” Olive corrects shyly, smiling a little

Beau smiles and offers Olive the rice.

Mikey has a few bites of his food then asks Em.

“What do you think I should put in groomsmen boxes for Leo and Wyatt? I’ve looked online but it’s all alcohol based stuff.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

Em considers. “Mini Lego sets, maybe? They both like puzzles or making things, or if you wanted something a little nicer or more practical you could do like cufflinks or a lapel pin? That they can use at the wedding?”

“Yeah…good idea.” Mikey grins, tearing some na’an.

A few days after their lunch, Beau gets a text message from Em. He doesn’t recall giving her his number, before remembering that Mikey put them in a chat, so she evidently got it from there

Hey, Beau, it’s em! Ca va?

I wanted to offer if you want to come over for the afternoon? I get if it feels weird since Mikey’s busy so you’d be on your own probably, but Luna had a half day at work and Olive with school, and I figured I’d offer

Bonus, we have fresh cookies

Xoxo

@just-a-fucking-civilian

Beau gets the message on the way home from his shift. He smiles, and some nerves bubble up.

He takes a breath and types a reply.

Oui, ca va. Et toi? I’d love to come over, just let me run home and shower. Would you like me to bring anything?

Xoxo

He saves Em’s number properly, as he reaches the apartment building.

just-a-fucking-civilian

Tres bien, merci! And no need at all, we just did some shopping so everything is fully provisioned!

Em lives in a nice building, upper middle class easily. Beau can remember his fiance mentioning that her ex is wealthy, and left her in possibly an even more favorable situation. It’s got a doorman, and he passes nice amenities. Em lives in the penthouse of the lovely brick and glass building, and it’s impressive.

As he arrives he can hear laughter from inside, and the sounds of a familiar nursery rhyme, a baby bouncing song from France his mother used to sing

He smiles, the familiar song making him feel a little more relaxed. He knocks patiently, rocking back on his heels a little.

Despite what Em said, he picked up some chocolate and candy on his trip over.

A young woman opens the door with a smile, with wavy brown hair down her back and bright lavender eyes, smiling warmly.

“You must be Uncle Mikey’s dreamer boy?” She swings the door open, and the little girl on Em’s lap jumps up. She must be about three, racing up and hiding behind the younger woman’s leg, head peaking out curiously as Em smiles lovingly.

“Beau! It’s so good to see you — meet my eldest, our lovely Luna, my baby, Lucie.” She smiles proudly. “Olive said she wants to meet you, but she doesn’t get home for a bit”

“Uhh, well yeah, I guess I am.” He smiles at Luna.

“I’m Beau.”

He steps in a little and waves to Em.

“Hey, nice to see you too. That’s alright, I’d love to meet her too.”

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“I’m Luna,” she smiles. “Come in? We have tea and coffee and-”

“Luna, honey, it’s okay,” Em cuts in, gently touching her daughter’s shoulder. “Trust me, lovey. You aren’t with them anyone, remember? You can offer things but I promise, you don’t have to do any of that, okay? It’s okay to be nervous but you don’t have to panic, promise,” she murmurs, as Luna nods shyly

Beau smiles softly, shifting his body language.

“That’s kind of you to offer Luna. I had a coffee not long before the end of my shift. Would you like a chocolate?” He holds out the bag of treats, keeping a respectful distance of Luna’s space.

Luna softens, relaxing slowly. “I’d love one, thank you. What do you do for work?” She asks curiously, as they all move over to the couches

Beau sits carefully, after everyone else has sat.

“I’m a surgeon.” He smiles, “I specialised in cardio thoracic, I transferred to Metro-General.”

“That is… a lot of big words,” she smiles. “So, heart stuff? That’s pretty cool””

“Yes, sorry, heart stuff, lung stuff, chest stuff.” He smiles.

He places the chocolates on the coffee table.

“You do tattoos, yeah?”

CW: Child Abuse

“Like the people who fixed Lucie’s lung after The Reverend collapsed it by accident,” Luna hums, cuddling her little sister

“Yeah! I’ve been learning since I was twelve but I was just apprenticed, I got my license a few months ago”

“And is it okay now?” Beau asks, giving Lucie a smile.

“That’s awesome. Mikey said you’d done a couple of his, they’re amazing.”

“It is,” Luna confirms, grinning as Lucie comes up to Beau shyly and holds out a tangle toy she’d been messing with

“I did, we had a really fun time I think. I liked getting the chance to just chat and stuff, and I’m really proud. There some of my best work, I think”

Beau smiles at the little girl.

“Wow, that’s a cool tangle.” He speaks softly and gently.

“You should be really proud.” He smiles at Luna.

gladstone-girl-again

As Lucie grins, the front door opens, and a teenage girl with warm brown skin appears, hands stuffed in a hoodie as she carefully puts her shoes away

When she spots Beau, she takes a deep breath and gives a little wave, then walks into the kitchen, giving little glances out of the open area above the counter while she finds a snack

Beau smiles and waves to her, returning to playing with Lucie.

just-a-fucking-civilian

“How’s your new job been?” Em asks with a smile

“Busy, but I’m aiming for head of the department one day.” He smiles, as Lucie hands him a doll and he makes it dance for her.

“It’s definitely different living here.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“You’ll do amazing,” Em assured him, laughing softly as Lucie grins. “Yeah, it’s a unique kind of crazy here”

“Mmm, not surfing after a shift is probably what I miss most.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“We’ll go to New Jersey when it warms up, you can there,” Em smiles. “I grew up in Boston, but it’s still odd how different it is only a few hours away”

“It’s crazy.” He smiles back.

“Mikey’s trying to decorate the apartment and wedding plan. Still haven’t set a date but we’ve got a better idea of when at least. I’m trying to convince him to just do one thing at a time.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Yeah, honestly with the genes in there I don’t think it’ll work,” Em chuckles. “I moved to New York for college, adopted two kids barely after graduating while in the middle of the chaotic start to my first serious and good relationship, running two theater programs and getting Leo through rehab with Mom and Dad. I think we’re incapable of picking one thing at a time”

“Wow, okay then. You’re as bad as each other.” He teases gently.

just-a-fucking-civilian

Em laughs. “Trust me, I know”

“Thank you, for inviting me over.”

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“Of course, I’m glad you decided to come.” She smiles as the girl from the kitchen wanders over tentatively, slowly sitting down next to Em

“Mikey said your aunt moved in next door to your parents?” He waits for the girl to initiate any contact, not wanting to make her uncomfortable.

“She sounds lovely.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“She did, she’s amazing. She’s sort of a variant of dad, she’s a blast. Both four to five times my age and also about my age, depending,” Em chuckles

“The super soldier thing really messes with age I guess.” He shrugs.

“So she’s both older than me and younger than me?”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“That and cryofreeze on and off for roughly a century,” she nods. “Yeah, basically”

“That’s going to take a while to wrap my head around.” He shakes his head a little.

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Yeah, it does,” em chuckles

“People can be weird about age.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“And it’s definitely weirder when someone has two ages at once”

“Yeah, the cryo stuff came up a lot at medical school.” Beau still twirls the doll in his hands as Lucie scampers off looking for something.

gladstone-girl-again

“What was medical school like?” The teen asks quietly, her voice tentative, as if she’s worried to make too much sound

“Hectic. A lot of the stereotypes are true, I lived off coffee and scrambled egg bagels most of the time. If anyone was asking for advice, I’d say it’s important that it’s something you are passionate about, have hobbies and things you enjoy away from study, and try to find a good mentor.”

He gives her a small smile, keeps his body language calm and open, speaks in a gentle, soothing tone.

gladstone-girl-again

Olive nods quietly. “I think about being a nurse sometimes. Maybe pediatrics”

“Yeah? It’s an interesting part of medicine, and working with kids is a whole different experience. Sometimes I get called in to help.”

gladstone-girl-again

“Yeah? Kids tend to be crazy… I remember I always was at the doctor’s, when I was able to go”

“There’s that, but also the medical and biological aspects are a little different too. Things can change so much faster.” Beau explains.

gladstone-girl-again

“Yeah?”

“Yeah.” He smiles at her again.

“You know, there’s a work experience program if you’re ever interested.”

gladstone-girl-again

Olive perks up. “Really?”

“Yeah! Obviously for privacy reasons there’s some things you can’t be involved in. But it’s a lot of behind the scenes stuff, how the hospital runs, what different jobs are.”

gladstone-girl-again

Olive nods. “That sounds really interesting”

“How about I send Em the information and the supervisor’s contact details?” He offers.

gladstone-girl-again

“Really? That would be amazing!”

“Not a problem, I can write your entry reference if you need.”

gladstone-girl-again

“You… you probably shouldn’t. It’ll look bad for you when they get my background check,” Olive says softly

“The offer’s there if you need it.” He says gently, not pushing.

“I can grab the info on my next shift.” He smiles to Em, “I’ll text it to you.”

gladstone-girl-again

“Thank you,” she says softly.

When a timer goes off in the kitchen, she smiles. “My tea’s steeped… I’ll be right back”

He returns the smile warmly.

“Sure thing.”

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When she steps away, Em breaks into a grin. “You’re a magician, I swear,” she says softly. “That’s the most she’s talked all week”

“No magic, just practice I guess.” Beau smiles back.

“She seems like a great kid.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Also I think just… everyone here knows where she came from. You talked with her. I think it helps,” Em smiles. “She is, she’s my cousin. Hitchhiked here from Arizona. She’s doing so well here”

“Wow, that’s a long way!” He blinks a little.

His phone buzzes and he smiles when he sees Mikey’s name.

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Yeah, she. Well, she approved the version I’m about to tel you, the rest is all her. She grew up in a trap house, with one of my aunts and an uncle and god knows who else. Her record is a mess because she was stealing food to eat and has a list of misdemeanors long enough to make Lucie into a mummy. She was born with a lot of vulnerabilities due to her mom’s addictions, and her past is something we have to fight every step,” Em explains

“But she’s also obviously more. She’s brilliant, if we can get around the record she could probably go to an ivy. She loves kids and wants to be a nurse or councilor, she loves drawing. She and Luna are thick as thieves, they’re practically sharing a room even though Olive has her own, but it’s more her own den. Shes amazing”

“I’m glad she has you guys.” He nods.

“I think she can do it, I think she’s a lot stronger than she believes.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“I think so too,” Em agrees. “She’s getting used to normal life, I think she’s loving having a big family. Especially since we encourage her to come and go as she likes”

“Independence and freedom of choice are so important.” Beau agrees.

His phone buzzes again.

“Mikes wants to know if you guys would like him to bring takeout over for dinner?”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“As you can see, she’s definitely benefiting. She tends to come in and out or sit nearby whenever there’s people around. Honestly it makes me proud, that she’s learning to listen to herself.”

Em grins. “Yes, absolutely. Indian, maybe?”

“It’s awesome, and you should be proud of yourself too.” He smiles.

“I could absolutely smash a chicken madras.” He grins back and texts Mikey back.

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Aww, thank you”

Em smiles. “Lunita! Lucie! Olive! What do you want for Indian?” She calls out

Beau opens his notes app to type in all the orders to send to Mikey.

He grins as the girls come in, Lucie barrelling straight for Em’s legs.

just-a-fucking-civilian

Em grins and squeals, picking Lucie up and air-planing her over her head as the toddler kicks and squeals happily. “Do you want samosas baby?” She coos. “You wanna have some samosas with us? And cheesy na’an?”

As Luna and Olive politely ask for their picks, Em adds on one or two appetizers to split amongst the group, grinning as Lucie climbs all over her

Beau grins, noting everything down.

“Alright, last call before I send it to Mikey!”

He watches Em and Lucie with a soft smile, something twisting in his chest.

“That’s everything, I think,” Luna grins, dragging Olive down onto the couch to tickle her

“Awesome!” He sends the list to Mikey, it buzzes shortly after.

“ETA one hour!” He grins.

“Want to play a board game?” Luna offers. “I just got one that I think could be fun”

“Sure!” He nods.

just-a-fucking-civilian

Em sits down with them, pulling Lucie into her lap as they all go over the rules

Beau listens carefully, sitting between Luna and Em.

He takes his phone off vibrate in case he misses a call from Mikey.

just-a-fucking-civilian

When Mikey arrives, he arrives to laughter, with his fiance laughing with his family as Em and Beau playfully bicker in French about a captured piece, and Luna and Olive giggle conspiratorially

“Hmm, my chaos senses are tingling!” Mikey grins, arms full of takeout bags.

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Em laughs, as Lucie runs at him eagerly she takes some of the bags off his hands. “Hey there, mon frere,” she smiles. “Come join?”

“Hey sis.” He smiles, watching Lucie carefully.

“What’s the game?”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Some sort of fantasy combat game where we’re all golems trying to protect our territory,” Em replies. “Which will now have to be put on hold” she adds intentionally, with a tone that sounds so much like Lina it’s impressive

The similarity strikes Mikey and he hides a snicker as the girls respond.

Beau gets up and helps Mikey with the food.

just-a-fucking-civilian

Em smiles fondly, helping to set food out on the table as they all settle in

Mikey sits next to Beau and instinctively Beau leans over and kisses Mikey’s forehead.

Mikey goes a little pink and clears his throat.

“So, umm, everyone have a good day?”

Luna grins softly, whispering something to Olive that makes the younger girl blush a bit.

“I did, I had the day off so it was pretty calm”

“That’s good.” He nods, passing some rice along and helping Lucie get some samosas.

gladstone-girl-again

“And Mr. Kleiss told me about an internship program at the hospital,” Olive adds softly

“Just Beau is fine, Olive.” Beau smiles gently.

gladstone-girl-again

“Okay, Mr- Beau,” Olive corrects shyly, smiling a little

Beau smiles and offers Olive the rice.

Mikey has a few bites of his food then asks Em.

“What do you think I should put in groomsmen boxes for Leo and Wyatt? I’ve looked online but it’s all alcohol based stuff.”

A few days after their lunch, Beau gets a text message from Em. He doesn’t recall giving her his number, before remembering that Mikey put them in a chat, so she evidently got it from there

Hey, Beau, it’s em! Ca va?

I wanted to offer if you want to come over for the afternoon? I get if it feels weird since Mikey’s busy so you’d be on your own probably, but Luna had a half day at work and Olive with school, and I figured I’d offer

Bonus, we have fresh cookies

Xoxo

@just-a-fucking-civilian

Beau gets the message on the way home from his shift. He smiles, and some nerves bubble up.

He takes a breath and types a reply.

Oui, ca va. Et toi? I’d love to come over, just let me run home and shower. Would you like me to bring anything?

Xoxo

He saves Em’s number properly, as he reaches the apartment building.

just-a-fucking-civilian

Tres bien, merci! And no need at all, we just did some shopping so everything is fully provisioned!

Em lives in a nice building, upper middle class easily. Beau can remember his fiance mentioning that her ex is wealthy, and left her in possibly an even more favorable situation. It’s got a doorman, and he passes nice amenities. Em lives in the penthouse of the lovely brick and glass building, and it’s impressive.

As he arrives he can hear laughter from inside, and the sounds of a familiar nursery rhyme, a baby bouncing song from France his mother used to sing

He smiles, the familiar song making him feel a little more relaxed. He knocks patiently, rocking back on his heels a little.

Despite what Em said, he picked up some chocolate and candy on his trip over.

A young woman opens the door with a smile, with wavy brown hair down her back and bright lavender eyes, smiling warmly.

“You must be Uncle Mikey’s dreamer boy?” She swings the door open, and the little girl on Em’s lap jumps up. She must be about three, racing up and hiding behind the younger woman’s leg, head peaking out curiously as Em smiles lovingly.

“Beau! It’s so good to see you — meet my eldest, our lovely Luna, my baby, Lucie.” She smiles proudly. “Olive said she wants to meet you, but she doesn’t get home for a bit”

“Uhh, well yeah, I guess I am.” He smiles at Luna.

“I’m Beau.”

He steps in a little and waves to Em.

“Hey, nice to see you too. That’s alright, I’d love to meet her too.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“I’m Luna,” she smiles. “Come in? We have tea and coffee and-”

“Luna, honey, it’s okay,” Em cuts in, gently touching her daughter’s shoulder. “Trust me, lovey. You aren’t with them anyone, remember? You can offer things but I promise, you don’t have to do any of that, okay? It’s okay to be nervous but you don’t have to panic, promise,” she murmurs, as Luna nods shyly

Beau smiles softly, shifting his body language.

“That’s kind of you to offer Luna. I had a coffee not long before the end of my shift. Would you like a chocolate?” He holds out the bag of treats, keeping a respectful distance of Luna’s space.

Luna softens, relaxing slowly. “I’d love one, thank you. What do you do for work?” She asks curiously, as they all move over to the couches

Beau sits carefully, after everyone else has sat.

“I’m a surgeon.” He smiles, “I specialised in cardio thoracic, I transferred to Metro-General.”

“That is… a lot of big words,” she smiles. “So, heart stuff? That’s pretty cool””

“Yes, sorry, heart stuff, lung stuff, chest stuff.” He smiles.

He places the chocolates on the coffee table.

“You do tattoos, yeah?”

CW: Child Abuse

“Like the people who fixed Lucie’s lung after The Reverend collapsed it by accident,” Luna hums, cuddling her little sister

“Yeah! I’ve been learning since I was twelve but I was just apprenticed, I got my license a few months ago”

“And is it okay now?” Beau asks, giving Lucie a smile.

“That’s awesome. Mikey said you’d done a couple of his, they’re amazing.”

“It is,” Luna confirms, grinning as Lucie comes up to Beau shyly and holds out a tangle toy she’d been messing with

“I did, we had a really fun time I think. I liked getting the chance to just chat and stuff, and I’m really proud. There some of my best work, I think”

Beau smiles at the little girl.

“Wow, that’s a cool tangle.” He speaks softly and gently.

“You should be really proud.” He smiles at Luna.

gladstone-girl-again

As Lucie grins, the front door opens, and a teenage girl with warm brown skin appears, hands stuffed in a hoodie as she carefully puts her shoes away

When she spots Beau, she takes a deep breath and gives a little wave, then walks into the kitchen, giving little glances out of the open area above the counter while she finds a snack

Beau smiles and waves to her, returning to playing with Lucie.

just-a-fucking-civilian

“How’s your new job been?” Em asks with a smile

“Busy, but I’m aiming for head of the department one day.” He smiles, as Lucie hands him a doll and he makes it dance for her.

“It’s definitely different living here.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“You’ll do amazing,” Em assured him, laughing softly as Lucie grins. “Yeah, it’s a unique kind of crazy here”

“Mmm, not surfing after a shift is probably what I miss most.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“We’ll go to New Jersey when it warms up, you can there,” Em smiles. “I grew up in Boston, but it’s still odd how different it is only a few hours away”

“It’s crazy.” He smiles back.

“Mikey’s trying to decorate the apartment and wedding plan. Still haven’t set a date but we’ve got a better idea of when at least. I’m trying to convince him to just do one thing at a time.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Yeah, honestly with the genes in there I don’t think it’ll work,” Em chuckles. “I moved to New York for college, adopted two kids barely after graduating while in the middle of the chaotic start to my first serious and good relationship, running two theater programs and getting Leo through rehab with Mom and Dad. I think we’re incapable of picking one thing at a time”

“Wow, okay then. You’re as bad as each other.” He teases gently.

just-a-fucking-civilian

Em laughs. “Trust me, I know”

“Thank you, for inviting me over.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Of course, I’m glad you decided to come.” She smiles as the girl from the kitchen wanders over tentatively, slowly sitting down next to Em

“Mikey said your aunt moved in next door to your parents?” He waits for the girl to initiate any contact, not wanting to make her uncomfortable.

“She sounds lovely.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“She did, she’s amazing. She’s sort of a variant of dad, she’s a blast. Both four to five times my age and also about my age, depending,” Em chuckles

“The super soldier thing really messes with age I guess.” He shrugs.

“So she’s both older than me and younger than me?”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“That and cryofreeze on and off for roughly a century,” she nods. “Yeah, basically”

“That’s going to take a while to wrap my head around.” He shakes his head a little.

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Yeah, it does,” em chuckles

“People can be weird about age.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“And it’s definitely weirder when someone has two ages at once”

“Yeah, the cryo stuff came up a lot at medical school.” Beau still twirls the doll in his hands as Lucie scampers off looking for something.

gladstone-girl-again

“What was medical school like?” The teen asks quietly, her voice tentative, as if she’s worried to make too much sound

“Hectic. A lot of the stereotypes are true, I lived off coffee and scrambled egg bagels most of the time. If anyone was asking for advice, I’d say it’s important that it’s something you are passionate about, have hobbies and things you enjoy away from study, and try to find a good mentor.”

He gives her a small smile, keeps his body language calm and open, speaks in a gentle, soothing tone.

gladstone-girl-again

Olive nods quietly. “I think about being a nurse sometimes. Maybe pediatrics”

“Yeah? It’s an interesting part of medicine, and working with kids is a whole different experience. Sometimes I get called in to help.”

gladstone-girl-again

“Yeah? Kids tend to be crazy… I remember I always was at the doctor’s, when I was able to go”

“There’s that, but also the medical and biological aspects are a little different too. Things can change so much faster.” Beau explains.

gladstone-girl-again

“Yeah?”

“Yeah.” He smiles at her again.

“You know, there’s a work experience program if you’re ever interested.”

gladstone-girl-again

Olive perks up. “Really?”

“Yeah! Obviously for privacy reasons there’s some things you can’t be involved in. But it’s a lot of behind the scenes stuff, how the hospital runs, what different jobs are.”

gladstone-girl-again

Olive nods. “That sounds really interesting”

“How about I send Em the information and the supervisor’s contact details?” He offers.

gladstone-girl-again

“Really? That would be amazing!”

“Not a problem, I can write your entry reference if you need.”

gladstone-girl-again

“You… you probably shouldn’t. It’ll look bad for you when they get my background check,” Olive says softly

“The offer’s there if you need it.” He says gently, not pushing.

“I can grab the info on my next shift.” He smiles to Em, “I’ll text it to you.”

gladstone-girl-again

“Thank you,” she says softly.

When a timer goes off in the kitchen, she smiles. “My tea’s steeped… I’ll be right back”

He returns the smile warmly.

“Sure thing.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

When she steps away, Em breaks into a grin. “You’re a magician, I swear,” she says softly. “That’s the most she’s talked all week”

“No magic, just practice I guess.” Beau smiles back.

“She seems like a great kid.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Also I think just… everyone here knows where she came from. You talked with her. I think it helps,” Em smiles. “She is, she’s my cousin. Hitchhiked here from Arizona. She’s doing so well here”

“Wow, that’s a long way!” He blinks a little.

His phone buzzes and he smiles when he sees Mikey’s name.

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Yeah, she. Well, she approved the version I’m about to tel you, the rest is all her. She grew up in a trap house, with one of my aunts and an uncle and god knows who else. Her record is a mess because she was stealing food to eat and has a list of misdemeanors long enough to make Lucie into a mummy. She was born with a lot of vulnerabilities due to her mom’s addictions, and her past is something we have to fight every step,” Em explains

“But she’s also obviously more. She’s brilliant, if we can get around the record she could probably go to an ivy. She loves kids and wants to be a nurse or councilor, she loves drawing. She and Luna are thick as thieves, they’re practically sharing a room even though Olive has her own, but it’s more her own den. Shes amazing”

“I’m glad she has you guys.” He nods.

“I think she can do it, I think she’s a lot stronger than she believes.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“I think so too,” Em agrees. “She’s getting used to normal life, I think she’s loving having a big family. Especially since we encourage her to come and go as she likes”

“Independence and freedom of choice are so important.” Beau agrees.

His phone buzzes again.

“Mikes wants to know if you guys would like him to bring takeout over for dinner?”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“As you can see, she’s definitely benefiting. She tends to come in and out or sit nearby whenever there’s people around. Honestly it makes me proud, that she’s learning to listen to herself.”

Em grins. “Yes, absolutely. Indian, maybe?”

“It’s awesome, and you should be proud of yourself too.” He smiles.

“I could absolutely smash a chicken madras.” He grins back and texts Mikey back.

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Aww, thank you”

Em smiles. “Lunita! Lucie! Olive! What do you want for Indian?” She calls out

Beau opens his notes app to type in all the orders to send to Mikey.

He grins as the girls come in, Lucie barrelling straight for Em’s legs.

just-a-fucking-civilian

Em grins and squeals, picking Lucie up and air-planing her over her head as the toddler kicks and squeals happily. “Do you want samosas baby?” She coos. “You wanna have some samosas with us? And cheesy na’an?”

As Luna and Olive politely ask for their picks, Em adds on one or two appetizers to split amongst the group, grinning as Lucie climbs all over her

Beau grins, noting everything down.

“Alright, last call before I send it to Mikey!”

He watches Em and Lucie with a soft smile, something twisting in his chest.

“That’s everything, I think,” Luna grins, dragging Olive down onto the couch to tickle her

“Awesome!” He sends the list to Mikey, it buzzes shortly after.

“ETA one hour!” He grins.

“Want to play a board game?” Luna offers. “I just got one that I think could be fun”

“Sure!” He nods.

just-a-fucking-civilian

Em sits down with them, pulling Lucie into her lap as they all go over the rules

Beau listens carefully, sitting between Luna and Em.

He takes his phone off vibrate in case he misses a call from Mikey.

just-a-fucking-civilian

When Mikey arrives, he arrives to laughter, with his fiance laughing with his family as Em and Beau playfully bicker in French about a captured piece, and Luna and Olive giggle conspiratorially

“Hmm, my chaos senses are tingling!” Mikey grins, arms full of takeout bags.

just-a-fucking-civilian

Em laughs, as Lucie runs at him eagerly she takes some of the bags off his hands. “Hey there, mon frere,” she smiles. “Come join?”

“Hey sis.” He smiles, watching Lucie carefully.

“What’s the game?”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Some sort of fantasy combat game where we’re all golems trying to protect our territory,” Em replies. “Which will now have to be put on hold” she adds intentionally, with a tone that sounds so much like Lina it’s impressive

The similarity strikes Mikey and he hides a snicker as the girls respond.

Beau gets up and helps Mikey with the food.

just-a-fucking-civilian

Em smiles fondly, helping to set food out on the table as they all settle in

Mikey sits next to Beau and instinctively Beau leans over and kisses Mikey’s forehead.

Mikey goes a little pink and clears his throat.

“So, umm, everyone have a good day?”

Luna grins softly, whispering something to Olive that makes the younger girl blush a bit.

“I did, I had the day off so it was pretty calm”

“That’s good.” He nods, passing some rice along and helping Lucie get some samosas.

A few days after their lunch, Beau gets a text message from Em. He doesn’t recall giving her his number, before remembering that Mikey put them in a chat, so she evidently got it from there

Hey, Beau, it’s em! Ca va?

I wanted to offer if you want to come over for the afternoon? I get if it feels weird since Mikey’s busy so you’d be on your own probably, but Luna had a half day at work and Olive with school, and I figured I’d offer

Bonus, we have fresh cookies

Xoxo

@just-a-fucking-civilian

Beau gets the message on the way home from his shift. He smiles, and some nerves bubble up.

He takes a breath and types a reply.

Oui, ca va. Et toi? I’d love to come over, just let me run home and shower. Would you like me to bring anything?

Xoxo

He saves Em’s number properly, as he reaches the apartment building.

just-a-fucking-civilian

Tres bien, merci! And no need at all, we just did some shopping so everything is fully provisioned!

Em lives in a nice building, upper middle class easily. Beau can remember his fiance mentioning that her ex is wealthy, and left her in possibly an even more favorable situation. It’s got a doorman, and he passes nice amenities. Em lives in the penthouse of the lovely brick and glass building, and it’s impressive.

As he arrives he can hear laughter from inside, and the sounds of a familiar nursery rhyme, a baby bouncing song from France his mother used to sing

He smiles, the familiar song making him feel a little more relaxed. He knocks patiently, rocking back on his heels a little.

Despite what Em said, he picked up some chocolate and candy on his trip over.

A young woman opens the door with a smile, with wavy brown hair down her back and bright lavender eyes, smiling warmly.

“You must be Uncle Mikey’s dreamer boy?” She swings the door open, and the little girl on Em’s lap jumps up. She must be about three, racing up and hiding behind the younger woman’s leg, head peaking out curiously as Em smiles lovingly.

“Beau! It’s so good to see you — meet my eldest, our lovely Luna, my baby, Lucie.” She smiles proudly. “Olive said she wants to meet you, but she doesn’t get home for a bit”

“Uhh, well yeah, I guess I am.” He smiles at Luna.

“I’m Beau.”

He steps in a little and waves to Em.

“Hey, nice to see you too. That’s alright, I’d love to meet her too.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“I’m Luna,” she smiles. “Come in? We have tea and coffee and-”

“Luna, honey, it’s okay,” Em cuts in, gently touching her daughter’s shoulder. “Trust me, lovey. You aren’t with them anyone, remember? You can offer things but I promise, you don’t have to do any of that, okay? It’s okay to be nervous but you don’t have to panic, promise,” she murmurs, as Luna nods shyly

Beau smiles softly, shifting his body language.

“That’s kind of you to offer Luna. I had a coffee not long before the end of my shift. Would you like a chocolate?” He holds out the bag of treats, keeping a respectful distance of Luna’s space.

Luna softens, relaxing slowly. “I’d love one, thank you. What do you do for work?” She asks curiously, as they all move over to the couches

Beau sits carefully, after everyone else has sat.

“I’m a surgeon.” He smiles, “I specialised in cardio thoracic, I transferred to Metro-General.”

“That is… a lot of big words,” she smiles. “So, heart stuff? That’s pretty cool””

“Yes, sorry, heart stuff, lung stuff, chest stuff.” He smiles.

He places the chocolates on the coffee table.

“You do tattoos, yeah?”

CW: Child Abuse

“Like the people who fixed Lucie’s lung after The Reverend collapsed it by accident,” Luna hums, cuddling her little sister

“Yeah! I’ve been learning since I was twelve but I was just apprenticed, I got my license a few months ago”

“And is it okay now?” Beau asks, giving Lucie a smile.

“That’s awesome. Mikey said you’d done a couple of his, they’re amazing.”

“It is,” Luna confirms, grinning as Lucie comes up to Beau shyly and holds out a tangle toy she’d been messing with

“I did, we had a really fun time I think. I liked getting the chance to just chat and stuff, and I’m really proud. There some of my best work, I think”

Beau smiles at the little girl.

“Wow, that’s a cool tangle.” He speaks softly and gently.

“You should be really proud.” He smiles at Luna.

gladstone-girl-again

As Lucie grins, the front door opens, and a teenage girl with warm brown skin appears, hands stuffed in a hoodie as she carefully puts her shoes away

When she spots Beau, she takes a deep breath and gives a little wave, then walks into the kitchen, giving little glances out of the open area above the counter while she finds a snack

Beau smiles and waves to her, returning to playing with Lucie.

just-a-fucking-civilian

“How’s your new job been?” Em asks with a smile

“Busy, but I’m aiming for head of the department one day.” He smiles, as Lucie hands him a doll and he makes it dance for her.

“It’s definitely different living here.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“You’ll do amazing,” Em assured him, laughing softly as Lucie grins. “Yeah, it’s a unique kind of crazy here”

“Mmm, not surfing after a shift is probably what I miss most.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“We’ll go to New Jersey when it warms up, you can there,” Em smiles. “I grew up in Boston, but it’s still odd how different it is only a few hours away”

“It’s crazy.” He smiles back.

“Mikey’s trying to decorate the apartment and wedding plan. Still haven’t set a date but we’ve got a better idea of when at least. I’m trying to convince him to just do one thing at a time.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Yeah, honestly with the genes in there I don’t think it’ll work,” Em chuckles. “I moved to New York for college, adopted two kids barely after graduating while in the middle of the chaotic start to my first serious and good relationship, running two theater programs and getting Leo through rehab with Mom and Dad. I think we’re incapable of picking one thing at a time”

“Wow, okay then. You’re as bad as each other.” He teases gently.

just-a-fucking-civilian

Em laughs. “Trust me, I know”

“Thank you, for inviting me over.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Of course, I’m glad you decided to come.” She smiles as the girl from the kitchen wanders over tentatively, slowly sitting down next to Em

“Mikey said your aunt moved in next door to your parents?” He waits for the girl to initiate any contact, not wanting to make her uncomfortable.

“She sounds lovely.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“She did, she’s amazing. She’s sort of a variant of dad, she’s a blast. Both four to five times my age and also about my age, depending,” Em chuckles

“The super soldier thing really messes with age I guess.” He shrugs.

“So she’s both older than me and younger than me?”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“That and cryofreeze on and off for roughly a century,” she nods. “Yeah, basically”

“That’s going to take a while to wrap my head around.” He shakes his head a little.

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Yeah, it does,” em chuckles

“People can be weird about age.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“And it’s definitely weirder when someone has two ages at once”

“Yeah, the cryo stuff came up a lot at medical school.” Beau still twirls the doll in his hands as Lucie scampers off looking for something.

gladstone-girl-again

“What was medical school like?” The teen asks quietly, her voice tentative, as if she’s worried to make too much sound

“Hectic. A lot of the stereotypes are true, I lived off coffee and scrambled egg bagels most of the time. If anyone was asking for advice, I’d say it’s important that it’s something you are passionate about, have hobbies and things you enjoy away from study, and try to find a good mentor.”

He gives her a small smile, keeps his body language calm and open, speaks in a gentle, soothing tone.

gladstone-girl-again

Olive nods quietly. “I think about being a nurse sometimes. Maybe pediatrics”

“Yeah? It’s an interesting part of medicine, and working with kids is a whole different experience. Sometimes I get called in to help.”

gladstone-girl-again

“Yeah? Kids tend to be crazy… I remember I always was at the doctor’s, when I was able to go”

“There’s that, but also the medical and biological aspects are a little different too. Things can change so much faster.” Beau explains.

gladstone-girl-again

“Yeah?”

“Yeah.” He smiles at her again.

“You know, there’s a work experience program if you’re ever interested.”

gladstone-girl-again

Olive perks up. “Really?”

“Yeah! Obviously for privacy reasons there’s some things you can’t be involved in. But it’s a lot of behind the scenes stuff, how the hospital runs, what different jobs are.”

gladstone-girl-again

Olive nods. “That sounds really interesting”

“How about I send Em the information and the supervisor’s contact details?” He offers.

gladstone-girl-again

“Really? That would be amazing!”

“Not a problem, I can write your entry reference if you need.”

gladstone-girl-again

“You… you probably shouldn’t. It’ll look bad for you when they get my background check,” Olive says softly

“The offer’s there if you need it.” He says gently, not pushing.

“I can grab the info on my next shift.” He smiles to Em, “I’ll text it to you.”

gladstone-girl-again

“Thank you,” she says softly.

When a timer goes off in the kitchen, she smiles. “My tea’s steeped… I’ll be right back”

He returns the smile warmly.

“Sure thing.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

When she steps away, Em breaks into a grin. “You’re a magician, I swear,” she says softly. “That’s the most she’s talked all week”

“No magic, just practice I guess.” Beau smiles back.

“She seems like a great kid.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Also I think just… everyone here knows where she came from. You talked with her. I think it helps,” Em smiles. “She is, she’s my cousin. Hitchhiked here from Arizona. She’s doing so well here”

“Wow, that’s a long way!” He blinks a little.

His phone buzzes and he smiles when he sees Mikey’s name.

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Yeah, she. Well, she approved the version I’m about to tel you, the rest is all her. She grew up in a trap house, with one of my aunts and an uncle and god knows who else. Her record is a mess because she was stealing food to eat and has a list of misdemeanors long enough to make Lucie into a mummy. She was born with a lot of vulnerabilities due to her mom’s addictions, and her past is something we have to fight every step,” Em explains

“But she’s also obviously more. She’s brilliant, if we can get around the record she could probably go to an ivy. She loves kids and wants to be a nurse or councilor, she loves drawing. She and Luna are thick as thieves, they’re practically sharing a room even though Olive has her own, but it’s more her own den. Shes amazing”

“I’m glad she has you guys.” He nods.

“I think she can do it, I think she’s a lot stronger than she believes.”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“I think so too,” Em agrees. “She’s getting used to normal life, I think she’s loving having a big family. Especially since we encourage her to come and go as she likes”

“Independence and freedom of choice are so important.” Beau agrees.

His phone buzzes again.

“Mikes wants to know if you guys would like him to bring takeout over for dinner?”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“As you can see, she’s definitely benefiting. She tends to come in and out or sit nearby whenever there’s people around. Honestly it makes me proud, that she’s learning to listen to herself.”

Em grins. “Yes, absolutely. Indian, maybe?”

“It’s awesome, and you should be proud of yourself too.” He smiles.

“I could absolutely smash a chicken madras.” He grins back and texts Mikey back.

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Aww, thank you”

Em smiles. “Lunita! Lucie! Olive! What do you want for Indian?” She calls out

Beau opens his notes app to type in all the orders to send to Mikey.

He grins as the girls come in, Lucie barrelling straight for Em’s legs.

just-a-fucking-civilian

Em grins and squeals, picking Lucie up and air-planing her over her head as the toddler kicks and squeals happily. “Do you want samosas baby?” She coos. “You wanna have some samosas with us? And cheesy na’an?”

As Luna and Olive politely ask for their picks, Em adds on one or two appetizers to split amongst the group, grinning as Lucie climbs all over her

Beau grins, noting everything down.

“Alright, last call before I send it to Mikey!”

He watches Em and Lucie with a soft smile, something twisting in his chest.

“That’s everything, I think,” Luna grins, dragging Olive down onto the couch to tickle her

“Awesome!” He sends the list to Mikey, it buzzes shortly after.

“ETA one hour!” He grins.

“Want to play a board game?” Luna offers. “I just got one that I think could be fun”

“Sure!” He nods.

just-a-fucking-civilian

Em sits down with them, pulling Lucie into her lap as they all go over the rules

Beau listens carefully, sitting between Luna and Em.

He takes his phone off vibrate in case he misses a call from Mikey.

just-a-fucking-civilian

When Mikey arrives, he arrives to laughter, with his fiance laughing with his family as Em and Beau playfully bicker in French about a captured piece, and Luna and Olive giggle conspiratorially

“Hmm, my chaos senses are tingling!” Mikey grins, arms full of takeout bags.

just-a-fucking-civilian

Em laughs, as Lucie runs at him eagerly she takes some of the bags off his hands. “Hey there, mon frere,” she smiles. “Come join?”

“Hey sis.” He smiles, watching Lucie carefully.

“What’s the game?”

just-a-fucking-civilian

“Some sort of fantasy combat game where we’re all golems trying to protect our territory,” Em replies. “Which will now have to be put on hold” she adds intentionally, with a tone that sounds so much like Lina it’s impressive

The similarity strikes Mikey and he hides a snicker as the girls respond.

Beau gets up and helps Mikey with the food.

just-a-fucking-civilian

Em smiles fondly, helping to set food out on the table as they all settle in

Mikey sits next to Beau and instinctively Beau leans over and kisses Mikey’s forehead.

Mikey goes a little pink and clears his throat.

“So, umm, everyone have a good day?”

Mikey @stream-fire - Tumblr Blog | Tumgag