Welcome To My Little Slice Of The Web

It had been a few weeks since that box arrived, and you had no idea that your mystery man had been watching you. Just like the day the box arrived, you had to work both shifts that day. So when you were about to leave your first job and head to your second, you were surprised to have a delivery. At your job. “Y/N? There’s a delivery guy here for you. Whatever he has smells amazing.” Your coworker told you as you grabbed your purse from the break room. 

“I’ll be right there. Thanks.” Did Kat order you lunch again? There had been a couple times over the past couple years where she had a really good tipper and surprised you with lunch. “Hi, you have a delivery for me?” 

The delivery man smiled at you. “Here you go.” He handed you the drink and bag of food, stopping you when he saw you reach for your purse. “No tip needed, it’s been taken care of. Enjoy.” Judging by his tone it had been a very good tip. No delivery person was that happy in New York. 

Sipping your drink, you headed out the front door. You’d eat on the way. Once you were at the bus stop you were able to pull out the half sub from the bag, and spotted fries, as well. The food did smell amazing. And when you unwrapped the sub you knew it had been pricy. It looked like it cost more than what you would be able to pay for a single food item. Your stomach grumbled as you took that first bite. If you hadn’t been given this you wouldn’t have eaten until you got home that night. 

Bucky was at your second job when you walked in. He watched as you smiled at another waitress, wiggling your fingers in a wave. He wasn’t in your section, having already been served, but this was a good way to be able to watch you. Moments later you disappeared into the back to change. He wondered if you liked your sub. Finding out your favorite foods wasn’t an easy task. You rarely posted food on social media, so he couldn’t go off that. It was slightly frustrating. He did enjoy seeing your life that way, however. You had a few friends it seemed, and your smile was bright in every picture you posted that you were in. From your Instagram he gathered that you had a very big personality.

Maybe 10 minutes later you were back out and getting to work. He could tell you were tired but you didn’t let that affect your work. At least he had stopped you from trying to work more. Getting another job would send you straight into burnout. 

When you got home that evening, you saw Kat and Hux cuddled up on the couch. “Your mystery man struck again.” She told you, eyes never leaving the television. “There’s pizza on the counter and a box on your bed.” 

Hux looked at you. “You aren’t creeped out?” He asked, furrowing his brows. “Because most women would hate things like this. It’s creepy.” 

You shrugged. “There’s nothing I can really do about it.” You pointed out. “What, should I go to the cops and tell them some guy is sending me food and gifts?” In what universe would that lead to anything happening? They’d likely laugh you right out of the station. And then they would likely randomly joke about the woman who had been worried about receiving money, food, and gifts. You did have to admit, that wallet was super cute.

He nodded with a look on his face that said he didn’t like it. “True. Well, let me know if you ever need help. I have some uncles that my mother pretends don’t exist who would be happy to help.” 

That made you pause, eyebrows shooting up. “Uh, thanks?” You chuckled. “I’ll keep that in mind.” You agreed. “And you guys are more than welcome to help me eat this pizza. I won’t eat the whole thing.” Having them benefit from this worked out. They were your friends and you wanted them to be treated nicely, too. 

“Thanks!” They both said at the same time as you opened the pizza box, making you laugh.

Pizza in hand you made your way to your bedroom. You were beyond curious to see what he had sent this time. That thought made you pause. You assumed it was a ‘he’ based on that handwriting, but you could be way off. What if it was a woman who simply had rough handwriting? There was no rule that women needed neat handwriting. There were so many questions just simply piling up and no way to get answers. 

Sitting on the side of your bed, you noted it was a smaller box. With no postage or even your address. Just your name. That told you that it was hand delivered. Why did that feel more off putting than having it mailed? “Let’s do this.” You muttered around a bite of pizza. Licking your lips you ripped open the box to find a credit card with your name on it, a note, and a new cellphone. 

Cut back the hours on one of your jobs and use this. It’s covered. Also, my number is already in the new phone. Anything you need…text me. 

-B 

Your eyes darted to the phone just in time to see it light up with a text message. It was a much nicer phone than you could have ever bought yourself, that was for damn sure. Lifting it from the box you unlocked it and read the text. 

Sleep well. 

The contact name was simply ‘B’. “Who are you?” Your voice was just above a whisper. While you could just call him, you had a feeling that he wouldn’t pick up. 

Your fingers hovered above the keyboard as you tried to figure out what the hell to write back. Finally, you quickly wrote out Uh, thanks? But who are you and why are you doing all this? Now you had to hope he would even answer you. Until you had proof otherwise, you would be referring to this person as ‘he’. 

You had the phone between your ear and shoulder as you patted Cheyenne’s back, pacing around the room you shared with her. Letting out a soft sigh, you listened to ring after ring before Dean picked up. “Hello?”

“Hey, on your way home can you pick up some baby Tylenol, and maybe a teether?”

“Is she okay? Do I need to come home?” He asked, sounding worried.

You chuckled lightly. “She’s teething, Dean. That’s all. You don’t have to leave work early.” You assured him.

Her first birthday was bittersweet. You didn’t have a party, but you did have a small cake, and presents. The older she got, the more she looked like Daryl. She smashed the cake with her small hands before cramming it into her mouth. Dean laughed, shaking his head.

“She definitely has a Winchester appetite.” Sam spoke through his laughter, you were making sure to take lots of pictures, not wanting to miss a single moment.

“Nah, she just sees how Dean shovels in food and decided to copy.” You smirked. Dean began to laugh, until he realised you had just insulted him.

“Hey!” Dean cried, reaching out quickly before hiding it behind his back.

You looked at him suspiciously. “Dean what have you got?”

“Oh nothing much, just a nice slice of revenge for momma!” Dean pulled out a handful of smashed cake from behind his back, smushing it into your startled face. You stood there for a moment, cake dropping off your face. You went to grab so food, determined to get him back.

“Momma!!” You all stopped, turning to face Cheyenne.

“What was that sweetie?” You asked softly.

“Momma!!” She squealed, pointing at your cake smeared face.

“Yes baby girl, that’s right! That’s your Momma.” Sam rushed forward, picking Cheyenne up. “Can you believe it? Her first word.”

“Told you I was gonna be her favourite.” You smiled at Dean. Joy filled you, your daughter was growing up so fast.

He didn’t care about your joking insult anymore, too happy that Cheyenne said her first word. “Just until she can say Uncle Dean.” He teased you.

“Come on, guys.” You groaned, crossing your arms. “Why? Why now?” Your eyes shot between them. “She’s nearly a year and a half. He wasn’t there last time, why would he be there now?”

Once again, they were hell bent on looking for Daryl. All because she picked up the word ‘Dada’ at the park. Sam sighed. “It’s just a day trip.” He told her. “We all pile in the car, stop for a bite to eat. You and Cheyenne can play at a local park and we’ll check the bar.”

Your eyes were begging him to stop this. “I’ve accepted that I’ll never see him again. Why can’t you?!”

“She looks just like him.” Dean said gently. “That’s gotta be rough.”

Sitting in the back with Cheyenne, you refused to speak to either of them. It was just after dinner, and you were heading home. Once again, nothing. At this point you were just angry, you knew he wouldn’t be there. The chances of him being there were insane but they had still insisted.

You looked over at Cheyenne, you wanted her to meet him, you really did. You just didn’t want her to get her hopes up later on in life. While she was this young, fine, she just knew we were going for a day out. But what about when she got older, how would you be able to explain going to search for your one night stand. You knew Sam and Dean were just trying to help, they just wanted the best for Cheyenne but it still hurt.

“We are about ten minutes away from home, okay guys?” Dean broke the silence. “You okay, girls?”

Cheyenne startled at his voice. She had started to drift off to sleep, due to the relaxing motion of the car. You would have probably drifted off too if you hadn’t of been so mad. Sam looked back at the two of you. “Look I’m sorry Y/N. We had to try. Even if just this once.”

You looked between him and Cheyenne and knew his was right. “I know Sammy, I’m sorry for being so mad. I just didn’t want to be disappointed again.”

Dean nodded. “I doubt we’ll ever stop looking. Even if it’s just me and Sam.” He admitted. “Just who we are.”

“You’ll go back to hunting one day, Dean. And then you’ll have other things to think about.” You shrugged. They had been there for you and Cheyenne, but when she was older? It wouldn’t be as hard.

“He’s lucky I don’t hunt humans.” Dean murmured. You sent him a chastising look. “You know what I mean.”

“Look if you wanna go searching for him fine, but I don’t know if I can anymore.” You looked down. “It’s just too hard.” You knew it was selfish but you couldn’t keep putting yourself through it.

“Okay sis, whatever you want.” Dean smiled at you.

The closest mall was a couple hours away, so you decided to make a family day of it. You wanted to bring her to Build-a-Bear, to get some soft serve, and maybe check the sales at the toy store. Cheyenne would be two in a month, so Sam suggested you make it her birthday ‘celebration’. You thought it was a good idea, and figured you’d buy her a special outfit just for that. It would also be a good time to get family pictures done, much to Dean’s dismay.

The four of you were walking through the mall, Cheyenne on your hip so that she wouldn’t run off and get lost. The first place you wanted to stop was a children’s clothing store, you had an idea of what you wanted for her to wear for the family pictures, you just weren’t sure they would stock them.

“Right boys, meet back in here in thirty minutes. I am gonna see what they have for this cutie. You two go amuse yourselves.” You ordered them away with a smile on your face. It would be nice for the two of them to go out and have some boy time, if only for a short while.

Laurel and Tommy watched Oliver walk out with Maggie, and then looked at each other. “Under different circumstances I’d say he’s doing good in the father figure department.” Tommy told her. "I'm gonna go check on Clay, though." He kissed her cheek. 

She sighed once she was alone and shook her head. She just hoped things worked out for everyone. As long as you were supported. 

Blinking, you rolled over to look at the clock. It was nearly four in the morning, so you decided to go check on the kids. You peeked in to where Maggie slept and your heart melted. Oliver was on his back, and Maggie was in his arms. The two of them made you feel warm inside. Moving towards them, you gently covered them up. 

You smiled at them once more before going to check on Clay. He was sprawled out, making you chuckle. He always had the most comfortable positions. You kissed his cheek and went to get yourself a glass of water. The quiet was nice. It gave you a moment to think about things. You'd hoped one day for a handful of kids, but that had gone out the window years ago. And this certainly wasn't how you'd hoped it would happen. You also couldn’t help but be sad that you didn’t have a husband to share the pregnancy with. You wouldn’t have someone to help name them, to feel them kicking, to help pick out baby furniture, or cut the cord. You wiped your eyes at that thought. Shaking your head, you knew you had to just accept that this was how things were. You’d be okay. You had to be. The most important people in your life depended on you.

You sat on the table and just focused on your breathing while you held your glass. “Can’t sleep?” Came Oliver’s voice, making you jump.

You held a hand on your chest before shaking your head. “Not anymore after I woke up.” You shrugged. “Figured I’d check on the kids, and get some water.” You sighed. “You seemed comfortable.” You chuckled lightly.

He smiled shyly. “Didn’t mean to fall asleep with her. One second I was checking for monsters and then I was out.” He explained. “I tried to tell her they won’t go after Arrow’s biggest fan, but she wasn’t buying it.”

You smirked. “She’s stubborn.” You agreed. “And once she attaches herself to someone, that’s it. I’m surprised she didn’t curl up with Laurel.”

“I am honored.” Oliver grinned and sat beside you. “She said she ‘loves’ Laurel, but she’s not the same as me. Whatever that means.” He chuckled. 

You hummed. “Could mean anything. Maybe you’re more squishy.” You teased. “I don’t know.” You sipped your water. 

He laughed. “I see how it is.” He shook his head. “Either way I’m glad I could be here for her. For all of you.” He said easily. He let them sit in silence, neither of you really finding it uncomfortable. 

You leaned into him after a while, closing your eyes. He shifted to put his arm around you. You hummed and nuzzled to him. “Yup. I see why Maggie likes it.” You whispered. “You’re warm.” You told him.

“Well, like Maggie, I don’t mind cuddling until you fall asleep.” He offered. “If you need it.” He said honestly. “Although, I probably won’t fall asleep. I’m wide awake now.” He chuckled.

You bit your lip. “Just laying there would be nice. If you’re comfortable.” You were kinda glad he wouldn’t fall asleep. The last thing you needed was the kids finding you asleep together. Maggie would likely get the wrong idea.

“I wouldn’t mind at all.” He promised, standing. “Let’s try.” He offered his hand. You took it, setting your drink on the table. “How’re you feeling?” He asked as the two of you walked towards your room.

“A bit down.” You said honestly. “Physically just tired.” You shrugged a shoulder. “But, I need to get used to that.” You’d be napping whenever you could. You’d been really tired when you were pregnant with Maggie, mostly because you were also entertaining a four year old. Now you’d be working, and taking care of two kids.

He nodded. “Let me know when you need a work break.” He laid down first and opened his arms. 

You shyly got comfortable and shook your head. “I don’t want to stop working until I have to.” 

“Okay.” He smiled and kissed your head. “Try to get some sleep. I’m sure the kids will be up and ready to play in no time.” He said softly.

You nodded and closed your eyes, listening to his heart beat. It was oddly soothing, and your breathing soon evened out.

Oliver felt some panic as he knew he was catching feelings. He knew he’d have to do something to combat this, or he’d be screwed. It was only Thursday, so he’d go out to have some fun to distract himself the next night. Wasn’t like this was even possible. This was something that would never, ever happen. Even he fell for you, it couldn’t. He stayed staring at the ceiling as a thought and knew he had to distant himself just slightly. 

When your alarm went off, you rolled over to your back. Oliver was gone, but you weren’t surprised. That wasn’t something you needed to get used to. It wasn’t the time. You rushed to take a quick shower before getting the kids ready for the day. Clay needed to get to school, and Maggie needed to get to daycare. 

Laurel had begun breakfast for the kids, smiling to herself as she felt this was something she could get used to. When you came out, Maggie was in your arms, and Clay was yawning behind you. She looked up and chuckled.  “Morning. Coffee is running and this should be done in a few.” She told you. “How’d you sleep?” She hoped to start your morning off on a good note.

“Actually, not too bad. I think I was so exhausted.” You sat Maggie down. "Woke up once, but it didn't take long to get back to sleep."

“Glad to hear it.” She smiled. "What time did Oliver leave?" 

“Uh, probably 6 maybe?” You blushed. “He was gone by the time I woke up, though, so I can’t be sure. Looked like Maggie was comfy cuddling him last night.” You tapped your daughter’s nose.

“He’s the bestest cuddle person!” She announced. “And he made sure there were noooooo monsters!” She smiled up at you. 

You grinned. “He is a good person to catch monsters.” You agreed. “But he can’t be here all the time to check, remember that. Okay?” 

She pouted. “Why?” She asked, not liking that. 

“Because he doesn’t live here, stupid.” Clay yawned.

Maggie frowned at him. “I not stupid! You are!” She shot back. “And so mean!” She pouted. 

“Guys, stop.” You sighed. “Oliver doesn’t live here, and I can check under your bed for monsters. Clay, you’re sister isn’t stupid.”  

Clay rolled his eyes and laid his head on the table. 

“Why can’t he live here?” Maggie asked. “It’d be so much fun.” She looked up at you innocently. Laurel thought it was adorable, and simply plated breakfast. “He could sleep in my room! Or yours, mommy!” She grinned.

You ran a hand through her hair. “Because Oliver has his own house with his own family.” You told her. “Okay?” You told her. “He has his own life.” 

That night, Oliver smiled as he walked into the club, his eyes wandering. He eyed people as they passed him, looking for someone to catch his eye. Anything that would distract him for the night, and hopefully start him pushing down these feelings. 

He saw a flash of skin and immediately followed onto the dance floor. He smiled at her as she began to dance with him. He inhaled the scent of her shampoo and shook his head as it reminded him of you. His jaw clenched for just a moment. He told himself to pull himself together and pulled the girl closer. He enjoyed how her body reacted to his. It would be a good night. 

Tommy watched from where he was standing at the bar, sipping on something. He was leaning on his elbow, letting out a sigh. He was glad that he didn’t think you were into Oliver with how his friend was acting. He really hoped your feelings stayed that way. He didn’t want you more hurt than you already were. Downing the last of his drink, he set his glass down and went to mingle. 

Oliver woke the next morning, hugging the person he was holding. Half asleep, he groaned. Forcing his eyes open, he looked down at the brunette in his arms. Hearing his phone, he reached over and grabbed it. It was a text from Laurel. 

We’re all going to the county fair. You want in? We leave in an hour. 

He tapped his chest. He could make it. Yeah, okay. I’ll go. He replied quickly. 

You had caved when Laurel mentioned the fair, and both kids begged to go. Neither of them had ever been before, and you knew that wasn’t fair. She didn’t mention that she’d invited Oliver, however. So, the moment Maggie saw him, she squealed and ran to him. “Oliver! Oliver!” She lifted her arms and nearly launched herself into his hold. He chuckled and lifted her, swallowing. “I didn’t know you were coming.” She said excitedly.

“Surprise.” Oliver hugged her and smiled over at you. You smiled back and he looked back to Maggie. “Excited for the rides?” He asked.

“Yes!” She cheered. “And cottonandy.” She combined the words. “It’s yummy!” She smiled.

“Then we gotta get the princess some cotton candy.” He grinned.

After the two of you hung up, he was torn about what he was thinking. He really felt he was attracted to you at first sight. But he felt bad for even thinking that. Especially with what you were going through with Mark. He truly hated the man but knew if he did anything else as Arrow, you’d catch on. More than you already had. Which was slightly impressive.

He also didn’t mean to make you nervous for work and wondered if he should show. But, he also wanted to make sure the other workers were being respectful. He felt you were very attractive no matter how you thought of yourself and knew guys would be looking. Sighing, he decided he’d go, and try to keep out of your sight.

He felt himself dressing up just slightly and before he knew it, he was standing on one of the stairs, eyeing the empty club right before opening. He heard Tommy showing you around and stayed in the shadows. He listened to you ask questions, clearly wanting to make sure you got things right. He had a feeling you’d be a good worker. Most just did it for the money or the name. He leaned against the railing and watched you, smiling softly as you laughed. 

When Laurel arrived at 7, the kids had already eaten dinner, and cleaned up. She smiled as Maggie had set up all of her toys and few polishes. “Party time?” Laurel chuckled. Maggie eagerly nodded, making Laurel smile. “First I’m gonna help your mom get ready for work, okay?”

“Okay! I wait.” She kicked happily. She played with some toys while Laurel went to your room with you. 

“I brought a few things so that you can mix and match for the next couple weeks until you can get some stuff you’d like.” She smiled. 

You widened your eyes as she took the stuff out. “I’m glad I managed to shave.” You mumbled. “Are you sure that will even fit me?” You asked, blushing. She was still fit, as you were sure she went to the gym. You had that mom body.

“I’m sure. I also brought shape wear just in case you wanted that. But I think you’ll look amazing.” She smiled. “I love shapewear.” She shrugged. “Hey, you stress eat an entire pizza before a party and not need it.” She teased when you looked at her in disbelief.

You smiled slightly at that. “True, I guess.” You went to get dressed. A little while later, you came out of the bathroom. “I don’t think I’ve even tried to wear something like this since before Clay.” You blushed brightly.

She beamed. “You look fantastic. Expect huge tips.” She winked, making your face heat up more. “Want me to do your makeup?” She offered.

“Oh, it’s already done.” You bit your lip, shaking your head. “But, yeah, you can fix it.”

She gave you a shy smile. “Sorry.” She went to look at your makeup and nodded. “I can work with this.” She assured you. 

“Okay.” You sat patiently. 

You were nervous as all hell when you pulled up to the club that night at 8. Your heels felt as if they were too loud as you stepped onto the sidewalk. Chewing on your lip, you blushed as Tommy came out, whistling at you. “Shut it.” You chuckled.

“If I wasn’t a happily taken man I’d get some thoughts.” He teased. “You look great.” He hugged you.

You playfully smacked his arm before hugging him back. “Yeah, yeah.” You chuckled. “Alright. Show me around, boss.” You teased.

He winked and led you in, getting into the basics. “You get two breaks, and a lunch.” He explained. “There’s usually food in the back, but if you want something ordered, that’s fine. Going out to grab something usually doesn’t work.” 

You nodded. “Takes too long, got it.” You let out a breath. “Will you be around during the night? Oliver said he comes sometimes, too.”

“Sometimes.” Tommy nodded. “We both like to check on things. But he just likes to socialize.” He chuckled. “You’ll barely notice he’s here.” 

You took a deep breath and nodded. “Okay.” You licked your lips. “I’m guessing now that the tour is over I need to fill out papers or something?” It’d been too long since you had a job.

“You’re ahead of the game.” He chuckled, leading you towards the back office. "So, how are the kids dealing with you being gone tonight? Getting home so late."

“I think Clay is happy.” You chuckled. “Maggie might cling to Laurel and never let you have her back.” You told him. "I left them playing princess spa."

He laughed. “I’m sure she doesn’t mind that.” 

Oliver had watched the pair of you head into the office and smiled to himself. He knew you’d fit right in and he couldn’t wait to talk to you again. Shoving his hands in his pockets, he made his way to another part of the building. He looked forward to seeing you work. He was curious to see what you were wearing, as he'd only caught a glimpse.

He eyed the floor as people began to file in and Tommy showed you how to take a few orders. He then introduced you to the other girls. He smiled to himself as he saw your outfit, knowing it was Laurels. In his opinion it looked better on you. 

It was an hour into your shift, and your nerves will still insane. You hadn’t been in a crowd this big in ages, and you weren’t sure where to focus. The music made it a million times harder for people to get your attention, which didn't help. When your break came, you rushed out to get a breath of air in one of the halls. Leaning your head back, you closed your eyes and focused.

Oliver came down the hall and wondered if to approach you. Would he make things worse? He cleared his throat. “I can pretend I didn’t see you and go to the office?” He asked. 

You jumped slightly and looked over at him. “Are you a ninja?” You asked.

He smiled. “Possibly.” He nodded. “You look nice.” He complimented. “You seem to be learning fast, as well.”

You blushed brightly. “Thank you.” You said softly. “How long have you been here?” You were curious.

“Couple hours.” He shrugged. “Just wanted to make sure you were okay.”

You sighed. “Overwhelmed, honestly.” You pushed off the wall that you were against. “It’s loud, crowded, and very attractive.” You chuckled. 

He smirked slightly. “That’s a really good explanation.” He nodded. “I’m sure you’ll get used to it. I mean, you wrangle the kids all the time, right?” He joked. 

You nodded. “Yeah, but I can lift one of them up to carry her to another room…” You smiled.

“Yeah, can’t say that works here.” He chuckled. “I mean, you could try, but I don’t think that would go over very well, honestly.”

You giggled. “No.” You agreed. “I better get back.” You motioned to the door you had come through. 

He nodded. “Thanks for chatting with me.” He opened the door for you. “And have a good rest of the night.”

You eyed him shyly. “Thank you, Oliver.” You stepped in, taking a deep breath. 

It was nearly three by the time that you got home. Your heels had been taken off as soon as you got into the car. You yawned as you walked into your apartment, groaning softly. You were thankful that you only did this two nights a week, but Maggie would be up in about 4 hours. Up and very energetic. You would need a lot of coffee.

You went to get Laurel and smiled as you saw she had fallen asleep with Maggie. "Laurel." You patted her leg, whispering.

She hummed as she began shifting and blinked awake. “Oh, hey.” She yawned, getting up to stretch. "What time is is?"

“Just about three.” You winced as you stretched as well. "Thought you'd wanna get home."

She nodded and hugged you. “Tell me all about it tomorrow, okay?” She grabbed her shoes from Maggie's floor.

You nodded. “Deal. I haven’t stayed up this late since teething season.” You chuckled. "See you tonight, technically."

She smiled and waved once she got everything going. You followed her out to make sure she got to her car. Waving as she pulled out, you felt you'd be okay. You gave one last yawn before rushing to change into pjs. Morning would come far too soon.

Maggie let you sleep a tiny bit later than you figured but she was soon poking you. "Mommyyyyy." She sang.

“No, Mags.” You whined. "Nap with me?"

“I just woke up mommy.” She cuddled to your side. "I'm hungry."

You sighed and rubbed your eyes. “Okay. Give me a sec.” You shifted to sit up.

She smiled and hugged a pillow as she looked up at you. "Laurel is fun!" She said finally.

“Is she?” You smiled. “Sounds like she had a blast.” You pulled her into your lap. "She'll be here again today." 

She hugged you. “Yay!” She said excitedly. "We played princess, and she made us snacks."

“Yummy snacks?” You gently tamed her hair with your fingers. "She looked comfy lying with you last night."

She nodded quickly. “Yummy snacks. And she watched shows with me before bed!” She told you, excitedly.

“Well she sounds like an amazing babysitter.” You carried her as you stood. "But I'll be only two nights a week."

She pouted. “Okay. Will Tommy come?” She asked, hopeful. "Or Oliver?!" She gasped.

You fought a wince. “You like Oliver?” You smiled instead. 

"A lot!" She nodded as you set her on the counter. 

“I’m sure he’d be happy to hear that.” You chuckled. "He likes you guys, too."

“Me more?” She grinned. "I'm cute!"

You laughed. “You sure are.” You began making them breakfast. Clay would probably wake up midmorning. It was fine with you for that particular day. Weekends were his days to sleep in.

Maggie swung her legs. “Work was fun?” She asked. 

"It was." You nodded. "And loud."

She gasped. “Like a party?” She asked, in awe. "Fun!!"

You chuckled. “I had to bring orders of drinks to people.” You explained. “It was very crowded. You know how Disney looks on tv?” She nodded. “Like that, but no kids, and it’s darker.” 

She scrunched her nose. “Sounds scary.” She muttered, no longer interested in it. “Can I play until it’s time to eat?” She asked. 

Chuckling, you nodded.

Sitting in your apartment that night after you got Willow to bed felt wrong. It didn’t feel like a home anymore. The love and life that had made it a home was dimmed. While, yes, you had your daughter, Eddie had brought so much light to it. Could you stay there? Glancing at the clock, you felt it was too early to go to bed. It was only 8. 

Hearing a knock at the door, you furrowed your brows and went to answer the door. There stood a sad looking Steve, Dustin, Lucas, Max, El, Mike, and Will. “We didn’t want you to be alone tonight.” Dustin told you and that was when you noticed it. Each of them had a sleeping bag and backpack. 

“Thank you.” You breathed, stepping aside to let them in. Once again you were brought to tears. 

“I brought over some brownies. My mom made them when she found out I was coming over.” Max told you. While you had only met her mother once, she had still been thoughtful enough to make brownies.

Will held up a ziplock baggie. “I made my trail mix.” He gave you a sad smile. 

“I brought Eggos.” El had three boxes in a grocery bag. 

“I brought beer. For us. Not them.” Steve shrugged. 

Knowing that you weren’t being left alone with your grief was a relief. “You guys didn’t have to, but I’m glad you did. Why don’t you guys put your stuff over there and we can find a movie to watch?” As they went to do that it hit you that you’d likely never play D&D again. It didn’t seem possible to play the game that had led you to who you saw as the love of your life. He was gone, and with it your desire to play. 

Waking up the next morning, you shuffled out to the kitchen with Willow on your hip. You were surprised to see Steve at your stove. “You’re up early.” You yawned, making him glance at you.

“I thought I’d make everyone crepes.” He shrugged like it was nothing. “Willow’s are in the fridge. I wanted to make sure they were cool enough whenever she got up.” 

“That was sweet, thank you.” You went to put her in her high chair before getting her a small sippy of milk and the plate Steve had made her. “Eat up.” You kissed the top of her head. “Grandma is coming to watch you today, mommy has to work.” 

“The day after the funeral?” Steve asked, appalled they didn’t give you more time off. 

You nodded with a sigh. “I’m the only one paying bills now. I might move, though.” You explained. “It’s not the same here without him, but at the same time this was where we brought home Willow and raised her so it would feel wrong to move. It’s confusing.” How the hell did you work through that? Hearing movement, you looked over to see El and Max coming in. “Morning. Steve’s making breakfast. 

Max blinked the sleep from her eyes. “Steve can cook?” She asked, a confused look on her face. 

“Yes, I can cook.” He raised an eyebrow at her. “There’s some on that plate there.” He motioned to the counter with a spatula. 

You smiled softly as Willow happily ate her breakfast, completely unaware of the sadness that permeated the apartment. “I think someone will want seconds.” You told Steve. “She can have mine, I’m not hungry.” Even the day before you’d run on coffee, half a sandwich, and one of Max’s brownies. You had no appetite whatsoever. 

After Steve put a couple more crepes on a plate in the fridge for Willow, he put two on a plate in front of you. With a pointed look, he went back to cooking. That look said what his mouth didn’t- you needed to eat. “What time do you work today?” He asked you. 

“Noon. I work until 6 today.” You’d be talking to your mom about possibly watching Willow more so you could up your hours. When Eddie had been covering half the bills part time was perfect. Now you needed to try to get full time.

El and Max sat at the table with you with their plates. “Do you need any help before work?” El asked before making a face at Willow who was staring at her. “Hi!” She waved. 

Willow giggled at that. “Hi!” She waved back. 

Your fork had been halfway to your mouth when she blurted that out. “Oh my God! Her first word.” Eddie had missed out by days. Had she said that less than a week ago? He would have heard his baby girl talk. It was the first of many things that he would miss, hitting you all over again that he was gone. Swallowing, you set your fork down and let out a breath. 

“Hey, it’ll be okay. I can’t imagine what you’re going through, but we’re all here.” Steve promised. “She’s got all of us.” 

“Even when we’re off at college.” Max nodded before taking a bite of her crepe. “Oh, maybe we can try to take turns calling every week to read to her before bed.” 

“You’ll all be busy with classes. Just promise to visit when you’re in town for breaks? If even for lunch?” It would give you something to look forward to. 

El held up her pinky for you. “Promise.” 

With a tearful smile, you looped your pinky with hers. Max did her best to add hers in, making you chuckle lightly. “I’d join in, but I’m over here playing chef.” Steve joked. “I’m mentally pinky promising.” 

Dustin yawned as he came in. “I smell something good.” He blinked the sleep from his eyes. “Sweet, crepes.” He grinned as Lucas, Will, and Mike started making their way into the kitchen, as well. Having a full kitchen was a bandaid on your heart.