#mlmam

Sorry for the delay, a lot has come up recently! Enjoy some sweetness.

Dennis had never shared a bed before tonight. Well, that was a lie, he had shared a bed with his brothers before, his parents, but never someone he was interested in; let alone a boyfriend. He was nervous, but it felt.. comfortable. Jack had been checking emails on his phone, laying there like it was perfectly normal behavior for them. Though now it would be. He wore reading glasses, swearing he only really needed them at night when his eyes got tired, but he found they looked handsome on him. It was still surreal, he felt like this was all a dream and that he was going delusional, because he was always the awkward one out. Jack rolled on his side a bit, scooping the younger man to bring him in.  To ease his nerves, Jack spoke up.

“So tell me about your family. Back home.”

“You wanna know about Broken Bow?” His face twisted in doubting interest. Jack just shrugged and nodded.

“Never been out that way, curious.”

“Well..” He started to talk about home. About his parents farm and what they did, which was primarily crops and processing cows and chickens for meat along with a few milking bovine. Herding cattle with the horses with is dad and brothers. The Bone Yard Creation Museum where they would go a lot as a kid, how beautiful Tomahawk Park was, that there were too many churches in one town than really needed. “It’s quaint, but can be a bit boring. We kind are out in the middle of nowhere.” He mused, his head on Jacks muscular shoulder.

He nodded along to everything he said, it was cute to think of a younger him running around the farm, and even for a place out in the middle of god knows where it did seem like a pretty little place to visit. “Seems like the perfect place to getaway to when you’re done with the city. Do you usually go home for holidays?”

Dennis shook his head. “It’s not that I don’t want to, just finances you know? I’m just lucky Santos gave me her spare room so I can save more of my money than I was before.” He chuckled sheepishly, not going to admit yet about him living in the abandoned wing whilst just starting.

“Do your parent’s support you?”

“Huh?”

He nodded towards him. “You know, your sexuality.”

He blushed for a minute at his confusion as he cleared his throat. “They do, my mom said she always kind of knew, my dad doesn’t understand it but he is trying his best to. My brothers are just… brothers.” He chuckled, snuggling in a little more. “What about you..well just in general. I didn’t clock you being.. well.”

“I won’t lie, you were the first I’ve had interest in that’s a man..” He admitted, and it was true. Something about the kid had him falling apart at the seems, almost wrapped around his finger. Dennis looked shocked, blushing as he chewed his lip. Something he noticed that he did when he was searching his head for a reply, or when he was showing some self restraint.

“Really??” He mused finally, his expression sheepish but he could tell that there was a little giddiness underneath it. “What did you like about me..?”

“Mmmm, You have a lot more confidence now, your eyes, the passion and dedication you put into your patients, your bratty attitude.”

“I’m not bratty” he huffed.

“You just proved it.”

A few moments passed in comfortable silence, before he looked up at the older man. “Tell me about your wife.. what was she like?”

Jack was taken aback for a moment. He didn’t expect his wife to even be a topic at the moment nor did he expect for her to be brought up. He looked down at the ring on his finger for a moment, mulling over his thoughts for a moment before he cleared his throat. “She was.. a tenacious but sweet woman. We met back in high school, I was kind of a dink back then so I was surprised she paid any attention to me.” He shook his head with a soft chuckle. “I had to catch up for a class, needed help not because I couldn’t do it, I was just a bit of a procrastinator in my youth if I wasn’t invested in the subject.”

“I feel like that’s anyone though, I slacked a bit in social history.”

She came up to my desk after class, didn’t give me much a choice on taking her help or not. I admired her boldness, and compassion for her community. We met twice a week in the library for a few hours after school, then it started to be in her living room, the next moment I just know I was head over heels for her.” He hadn’t really spoke about this in quite a long time. “She really enjoyed having people over for dinner, going to the beach, gardening. She was one of the most supportive in my life when I joined the military. She ended up being a school teacher while I was deployed, and she loved gushing about her students. Took good care of me after I lost my leg but when she got cancer…it was hard.” There was a small bout of silence. “But she was one hell of a fighter, she gave it her best shot. I’m just glad she isn’t in pain anymore, I just haven’t been able to take the ring off..”

Dennis listened, nodding. He could tell it was a tough subject, but he smiled. The way he spoke about her was endearing, it warmed his heart. He took that moment to snuggle in a little more as he rested his head on his chest. “It doesn’t bother me that you wear it, I think it’s sweet to be honest.” A small yawn snuck out, the exhaustion of their shift starting to creep up on him.

Jack lost himself in thought at his comment, looking down to the ring on his finger. He wasn’t ever sure if he would ever be able to take it off. It wasn’t the healthiest according to some, but it was one of the only ways he felt close to her anymore. Usually, a new partner would hold some sort of hostility towards still wearing the ring of your widows; but Dennis was different. Very different. He felt like it was kind of all a dream to be honest. “You sure?” He finally spoke up, his own voice gruff from the settling exhaustion.

“Honest.” He held up his hand, extending a pinky. Pinky promise, childish? Maybe, but it was one thing that people still held a lot of superstition or unspoken trust. Jack emitted a small huff of amusement, lips cocked in half smirk as he wrapped his pinky around his snugly. He adjusted the curtains to block out the bright rays trying to peek through and light the room as seven a.m crept upon them. By the time he was done fighting with them to keep the room dark for them he heard the soft noises of sleep, Dennis sleeping soundly with his face pressed into his muscular chest. He smiled, watching him sweetly as he slept, rubbing his back. It had been so long since he had someone in the same bed, let alone sleeping next to him in his arms. Sure he had a hookup once or twice in the past years, but he was intoxicated every time, and it never felt good the morning after. Felt wrong. But with this he felt so comfortable, at ease, to the point before he knew it he was asleep, cuddled up to him in his arms

3 p.m

The sound of both of their phones going off made Dennis jump, nearing rolling out of bed as Beastie Boys blared on his phone. His hand fumbled, snatching his phone off the nightstand so he could turn it off. At the same time Jack was grumbling a little from sleep, tapping his phone as he rubbed sleep from his face. He moved to sit up on his elbows, a guilty Dennis looking at him.

“I’m sorry if that woke you,”

“Dennis, honey my alarm went off too.” He chuckled, voice gruff and deep from sleep. That was hot, Dennis found that very hot. But now was not the time to get too excited and embarrass himself. He would rather die.

“Oh, yeah.” He scratched his head, but before he could overthink he was pulled to front by the peck on his lips before the older man swung his legs over the bed, grabbing his leg as he slid it on, standing up. 

“Let’s go make coffee and whatever we want for food.”

Dennis perked, nodding as he checked his phone notifications. One from Robby was on the screen, his heart dropping for a moment as he read the text.

/ checking in, how is the house treating you? /

He scoffed, swiping it away. Now of all times to check in, a whole month later. Not the times he had a few questions about how things he couldn’t find or figure out. He just placed his phone in his pocket, shuffling out as he rubbed sleep from his eyes as he trailed after Jack like a little puppy. He was proud of himself, he didn’t feel an inch worked up or anxious from the text.

“Lunch or breakfast food?” Jack piped, opening up the fridge as the smell of fresh brewing coffee filled the kitchen, causing Dennis to groan under his breath at how good it smelled. 

“Lunch” He murmured as he fought back another yawn, sitting patiently at the kitchen table. Jack couldn’t help but smirk slightly. The kid was capable of independently fixing his coffee while he looked for something appetizing and not too lengthy to make, but he was waiting for hit to be handed to him like a little spoiled brat. Though, that was his own fault, he set himself up for that one the past month and a quarter making sure he was taking care of himself and fed. He preheated the oven to prepare on throwing in a frozen pizza, something effortless which was rare for him, but every once in a while. After going to make a cup of coffee for him, shaking his head and smiling to himself as he walked over, setting the cup down in front of him. 

“Here you go, love.”

Lilia deciphered the look in her eyes instantly and sighed with her whole body. “Oh, my God. You didn’t. Did you?”

“I did,” Rio said, nodding into her hand.

Alice and Jen turned their heads to Rio.

They turned their heads back to Lilia.

“You did not.” Lilia sprung to her feet, her hands firm on her hips. “Oh, Rio. What did I tell you?” Rio didn’t protest.

“Does one of you want to chime in and tell me what exactly Rio did?” Alice quipped.

Lilia ignored her and continued her rant. “She’s not your friend, Rio. I mean, you’ve talked to her and been in her house—and you even said so yourself—she’s rude, entitled, unhinged, kinda violent.”

“I know,” Rio whined. “We got into it the other day. She threatened me with a bat.”

“Wait, is this about Agatha?” Jen asked, her eyes widening.

✿ᴗ͈ˬᴗ͈)　✦˚　nothing in the world belongs to me,

✿ᴗ͈ˬᴗ͈)　✦˚　but my love, mine, all mine, all mine

Chapter 6 Domestic Huckleabbot 👌

“What is it you eat anyways? Like actually enjoy eating.” Jack mused as Dennis grabbed a cart, pushing it as they started to wander in a direction to get out of the way of traffic. He knew old people and their grocery shopping; it was serious business and not to get in the way. He had to think on that, genuinely until Trinity he lived off of the free sandwiches at work he would sneak every once in a while, and whatever the warming centers had offered. He was a first generation college graduate, let alone doctor in his family, and they didn’t come from anything more than meager means; you cut costs where you can.

‘Oh.. uh..Ramen -“

“I’m stopping you right there, do you realize how much sodium is in that and junk carbs?” Jack quipped, starting to lead the way down an aisle.

Dennis found himself pouting, he knew it wasn’t good for him, but it was cheap and what he got him though college; and somewhat a comfort item. He followed with the carriage, finding him coming back to the cart holding up a couple packs; protein ramen. That was something he hadn’t really seen before.

“Still isn’t the best, but better than that cheap shit. Cook up some meat and throw in an egg and some vegetables and it’ll be more sustainable and better on your body. You like chicken right?”

Dennis stood there for a moment, baby doll blues blinking as he listened to the man speak, not hearing really much of the conversation at he was too focused on the fact that the man was not only wanted to know what he liked to eat, but also cared enough to make sure he could keep his body properly nourished and fueled to even exist. When his sentence ended in a question, he perked a bit and came to, nodding. He liked chicken, beef was his favorite but he wasn’t picky, food was food.

“Yeah, chicken is great.” He mused, as the man placed them in the cart as he lead the way again, towards the cooler area on the other side of the aisle they were in. “Uhm, I do like eating eggs. We used to have an abundance because our hens were happy girls, they laid a lot.” He rambled a moment, looking towards the eggs like lost puppy before he grabbed the organic, farm raised ones. The processed eggs didn’t even taste like real eggs to him; a spoilt palette. At this point the older man had taken control of the cart, the blonde aimlessly wandering in the fresh section for veggies, to the meat section to pick a couple cheap meats where when he wandered away Jack slipped a couple more things he would use to make dinner. In fact, everytime the younger mans eyes lingered on something he put it in the cart, he was skin and bones and he needed the food, and hopefully some of it was comfort foods to help ease it. The only line he drew was the occasional energy drinks he seen him pound down during a long shift. And the fact the man was a diabetic.

“I think I’m all set.”

“Hm?” He looked up from reading the nutrition facts on the label.

“oh, sorry I didn’t mean to interrupt.”

“You’re good kid, I just need a few more things and then we will be all set.” He mused gruffly, as he lead them down aisles to get a couple things. They made their way to the checkout, Dennis heading into it first so he could help load the groceries, going to get the divider before a hand swatted at him, taking it and putting it back.

“I told you I was buying.”

“Jack you really don’t have to”

“I want to, and you’re not going to change my answer.” He shooed him up with the cart, heading to the pin pad as she rang everything up. He noticed a small glance between the three of them, raising a brow before he slipped his card in the chip reader to pay for everything.

“Your total is $327.86”

Dennis went to say something, eyes wide as saucers as the older man gave his shoulder a squeeze, taking the receipt with a small smile as they wheeled out.

“Given our shit economy we got more than you would think for the money. It’s no big deal, it’s about what I spend every three weeks, I usually meal prep. Which is what I’m going to be teaching you today so that you don’t live off of vending machine and stale cafeteria food that looks like it could give you e-coli.”

“I.. I mean you really aren’t wrong about the cafeteria.” He shuddered, remembering his last encounter in desperation. He was basically sleeping in the bathroom at him and Trinitys apartment. “Gonna be a busy day I suppose.” He joked with a sheepish smile, picking up bags once the back of Jacks car was open, transferring the bags to the trunk.

“It’ll be good for you, create a good habit and you’ll thank yourself on long nights when you won’t have the energy to cook for yourself. Hell knows I don’t.” He chuckled, returning the cart to the corral and climbing into the car with a grunt. “Did you need to hit the pharmacy at all while we are out? Have enough insulin?”

“Are you asking as a doctor or as a friend”

“Both, actually.”

“I do for maybe another week and I’ll be paid by then” He shrugged, making note of having Trin drop off some of his pump supplies from home or bring them to work tomorrow.

“If you need a ride don’t hesitate, I know Santos would too but sometimes she gets caught up in charting. Or you could switch to the hospitals pharmacy and make It easier.”

“….”

“Dennis?” He looked over to him, the kid looking dumbfounded as he chuckled.

“I don’t even know why I didn’t even think of that. That’s kinda embarrassing actually.” He chuckled, the rest of the way they conversed about the forms to transfer, the discount program for staff, and what tomorrows shift might hold. He had one night shift this schedule, and it would be good practice to have under your belt. They pulled up to the townhome, his heart dropping a little once more before he got out, making his way to unlock the door so they could bring his groceries in. Jack just had an arm full of groceries, the case of drinks under his other arm. He was a one trip man, fuck that. He tapped his car with his foot, triggering the hands free closing mechanism as he made his way to the door.

“Jack!” Dennis stumbled, taking the case from under his arm. “I could have grabbed some things.”

“No need, I’m the king of one trip, or one trip bitch as you kids say now a days?”

Dennis almost rolled his eyes, catching himself as he was on his best behavior of course, he was a good boy. “Does Robby even have Tupperware for meal prepping?”

“I’m sure, I gifted him a set a while back and yet to see a single one so I bet…” He opened up a cabinet, scoffing with a smirk as he pulled out the still packaged Tupperware set. “Yup, right here.”

“Yeah, he didn’t really seem like the meal prep kinda guy, more like a beer and takeout.”

“Bingo, and that’s why he’s got a gut forming. Unlike me.” He gloated, unintentionally being flirty as he gave him a shit eating grin. The same grin that Dennis would sneak glances of in the hall like taboo secrets. The man was over confident, cocky but not in a pretentious way. Just secure in himself,  and he admired and wanted to achieve that in himself as well.

“Okay, well leave these bags alone, we are going to use these ingredients to prep your meals for the week.” He lifted them to the counter, helping him put the rest away before opening a drawer, grabbing a knife and cutting board. Dennis knew better than to fight back at this point, nodding as he joined him after he rinsed off the Tupperware and leaving them to dry since they were brand new.

“Is there anything you need me to do?”

“Don’t worry that pretty little head about it.” He mused, testing the waters a little, go big or go home as they say.

Dennis blushed at the abrupt compliment, nearly choking on his own saliva as baby blues darted towards the counter of ingredients laid out, trying to quickly assign himself a job to spare his humility. Jack could definitely tell, nudging a few peppers and some spinach his way. 

“Wash these for me?”

“Y-Yes sir.” Smooth Dennis, really smooth, just like your brain right now. He silently cursed himself as he scooped up the veggies in his arms, carrying them over to the sink as he placed them in a strainer, running water over them and using his hand to scrub them gently so they were fully clean.

“So, we are gonna pre cook that chicken for you to have for your ramen, one breast should be fine and we can freeze the rest or tomorrow we can make something with the rest tomorrow before our shift to bring.”

“We?” The question was genuine and innocent, carrying over the washed vegetables and placing them on the nice marbled wood cutting board. He was shooed away from the board as the other man started to chop up the bell peppers first.

“Yeah, that is if you want me to go, I can go. I didn’t know how long you’d want me to stay.” He gave a half shrug, looking up briefly from his task.

He could feel his cheeks tinge pink, searching the cabinet for a wok as he got it out, setting it on the nice gas stove. He hadn’t thought about that, he figured he’d rush out by now and forget this ever happened; not willing to give up his own time and stay at his whim.

“Oh, uhm.. I don’t want to be a burden.. I already feel like I am keeping you away from your personal life.”

“What personal life?” He chuckled, transferring the peppers into the wok as he worked on chopping up a scallion, then a chive on the side for garnish. Was he going a little overboard to impress the kid? Maybe. Shamelessly actually. “I eat breathe and sleep the hospital, though occasionally when I have the time I read.” Dennis perked, not pegging Jack for the reading type if it wasn’t something involving medicine or his patients care. Looks can be deceiving, that was for certain.

“I didn’t peg you for a reading guy, honestly I do enjoy reading myself if I ever have the free time anymore.” He mused, moving around the kitchen to get things Jack needed, taking dishes to the sink to wash as they went along so they didn’t leave a big mess, almost… domestic things.

“Well I do have quite the collection, though most probably before your time.” He teased, seasoning the beef strips as he sautéed the vegetables. “Robby has some decent literature as well, he has an office down the hall. Most of it is medical though, but if you haven’t seen greys anatomy in person before it’s definitely worth a look.” He mused, looking down at him. His pouty lips honestly drawing his attention more than he needed it to be. Wondering what they would feel like against his, how their bodies would fit together..not sexually of course; just cuddling, holding hands, sweet things. Getting too lost in his head again he cleared his throat, nodding over his shoulder for him to get the Tupperware, wild rice done in the pot next to him as he walked him through the prep, nutritional facts and all. The next few hours were caught up in conversation as they finished the prepping, cleaning, and by the time they were done it was time to start dinner. The line started to blur a little once the wine was introduced, finding himself delivering intimate gestures In the form of guidance. His hand on his lower back to move him to the right place, hands over his to help cut the spaghetti squash in half due to its stubborn build.

“I don’t understand,” Jack murmured as he squinted at the tv; “How in the fuck can someone just eat their husband like he is what.. fucking fun dip?”

Dennis almost had his wine come out his nose as he took his final sip, choking a bit as he laughed, genuinely laughed. “I don’t know either but there are some crazy cases on here. Someone genuinely into balloons and inflatable pool floats, the works.” He rambled, he didn’t know when he had gotten so close to the man on the couch, but his head was fuzzy and he was getting a little sleepy from the spirits and he absolutely had no concept of personal space when it came to being buzzed; it was something Trinity can attest to.

Jack made an absurd face he assumed by the look on the blondes face, he thought they saw it all, fucked up cases rolled into the ED everyday to the point he was desensitized from the stupidity; apparently not. “Some guy gets it off from an inflatable balloon animal?”

“Yuppers.” He stifled another yawn, tucking his legs under him on the cushion. Jack rose a brow just slightly, the boy was fighting back sleep; it was honestly adorable. Slowly but surely the conversation grew quiet from him being sleepy, fighting sleep as his head ended up on his shoulder again,  then to his lap.

“Hh sorry” he murmured, going to move as Jacks large hand held him by his side gently. 

“Don’t be, take a nap while I finish this episode then we can call it a night.”

“Mmnf no” Brat, but of course he could barely keep his eyes open so he already knew who was going to win this conversation.

“Dennis, just get some sleep, I’ll wake you up when it’s over.” That was a lie, he would damn right carry him to bed and tuck him in bed again; like the spoiled brat he was, and was going to become at this rate. Dennis couldn’t fight it anymore as his eyes started to drift shut.

Chapter 2

---------------

A few weeks in, and he found himself constantly having eyes on the kid.  He said he was fine and doing well but Jack could smell bullshit from a mile away. Now, nothing effected his job or his ability to be a competent doctor, he was still flying colours actually. But he could tell he was just a little thinner, the bags under his eyes slightly more prominent than before, and most importantly his lack of socializing with his peers. He was a shy person sure, but he was fairly chatty with some of his colleagues; to be fair Santos wouldn’t allow it, even if she had to push his buttons. Sometimes his in his free time he would catch him with his eyes glued to his phone screen, like he was waiting for a text or call any minute now… and man did he feel terrible for it.

/This is strictly checking up on the property for your friend, and offering his hand to the kid if anything didn’t work, break or any questions in case Robby didn’t text back in a timely manner Jack. Don’t get emotionally involved./ And at this point he hadn’t even texted him back which was concerning on its own. He was snapped back to reality when another trauma rolled in, a lawn mower incident, guy got his foot ran over by a push mower while his son was mowing the lawn.

“Thomas Davids, 48, got into an argument with his son while he was mowing the lawn.” The paramedic motioned down to the mangled extremity.

“Yikes,” Santos mused, flocking to the action as they wheeled the kid into trauma 2.

“Okay, on my count.” He looked around, making sure everyone had a grip and was on the same page. “One, two, three.”

They successfully lifted the board, transferring him over to the hospital bed, the EMT’s making they way out to give them all more space to work on the patient. The man was writhing, and rightfully so. Anyone would too if their foot was barely in tact.

“Mr Davids my name is Dr Abbot and I’m going to be taking care of you okay?” Gentle but a little firmness to his voice, old habit from being in the military. “We are going to give you some medicine for the pain and we will exam okay?”

The man nodded, unable to form a coherent word. In no time Whitaker was in, and between himself and Santos they pushed pain medication to try and make Mr Davids more comfortable.

“Pushing 2 milligrams of Morphine” the nurse mused, twisting the syringe onto the iv line and injecting the pain medication. It took a few moments but slowly it washed over the mans body, giving him at least a decent edge off the pain so they could better assess the wound.

“Mmn, what do you think?” His eyes looked up, right at the two young doctors.

“Control bleeding, scans, and call ortho?”

“Sounds good, If anything changes come find me.” He walked out, tossing his gloves and gown into the designated bin and back into the bustling hall of Pittsburgh Trauma Medical Center. Same shit differently, though in good news Baby Jane Doe finally had a placement. Social services would be there any moment, and she was clear of most symptoms of the illness. He reached out, snagging his water bottle off his station he camped out on this shift, keeping himself hydrated. He couldn’t help but find his eyes once again, subtly focused on the kid. He hadn’t once ever seen the kid take a break, and where that was Robby’s style it surely wasn’t his, and he seemed like he genuinely needed it.

“Whitaker, Come here.” He quipped, the meek young man looking surprised, but closing the distance quickly.

“Uh yes Dr Abbot?” 

Those eyes were wide like a doe, the softest shade of blue. Somehow just full of innocence. He cleared his throat, putting a hand on his shoulder for a moment, the way he seen Robby do. Get it together Jack, fuck.

“Have you taken a break yet? There is a small ‘lull’ right now, go take one if you didn’t.”

“Oh I’ll be okay Dr Abbot, honest” He swore up and down, but unfortunately his stomach gave him away as it emitted the tiniest growl which left the mans cheeks dusted a rosey shade of pink.

“Go take 30, that’s an order. Go get something to eat and I won’t let you back any moment sooner.” He said firmly, he would be a liability and. Useless to him if he wasn’t taking care of himself.

Dennis opened his mouth to reply before he nodded, giving a yes sir as he ducked off down the hallway, heading into the break room. There was some leftover food from a corporate meeting earlier, as he stole himself a small wrapped up sub and grabbing a water. He was hungry… he just really didn’t notice until he was stopped and not occupied by his patients. Sitting down, he sighed softly, it felt nice to get off his feet for a minute, and this sub was really smelling good, even if he wasn’t particularly fond of Italian subs; food was food at this point. He nearly moaned into the bite, anything tasted good currently and could tell his blood sugar was low with the small tremor in his hand. Dr Abbot was right, he could have been a liability.

The silence of the break room left him to his own thoughts as he chewed his food, scrolling his phone aimlessly as he mulled over what he was going to do for dinner. It almost felt illegal to even touch a single thing in the house, almost like it would disturb a ghost that not yet haunt it. Cursed if you do, damned. By the time he got back and showered he probably would be too tired to anyways and would crash in the guest bed. Finishing up, he sucked down his bottle of water before he shoved his phone back on silent and in his pocket, washing his hands and heading back out onto the floor.

7 p.m

“Bad news Huckleberry, you’re gonna have to either wait for me, or get your own ride home” Trinity mused, leaning back in her chair at the nurses station as she emitted a groan. She swore that would be the death of her, the charting or disdain for it. It was inconvenient, but it didn’t bother him. The fact that she still drove him when their apartment was in the opposite direction was already a miracle and kind for her.

“No yeah.. it’s okay I can grab an uber or something.” He shrugged his bag onto his shoulder, fumbling his pockets to grab his phone before he heard a familiar voice again.

“No need, I’ll take you. You’re on the way it’s not a big deal.” It was Jack, the admittedly handsome boss. It flustered him a bit, he didn’t want to impose, and seem like he just expected for the man to just give him a ride on any whim.

“It’s okay Dr Abbot, I don’t mind Ubering. I don’t want to be an inconvenience.”

“That’s nonsense, I’m the one that offered.”

“Bu-“

“That’s not up for debate, let’s go.” He mused, looking at the man and giving a quick half smile as he started to walk towards the door. Trinity rose her brow and gave him a look where he only had time to shrug back before he was nearly tripping over his feet to catch up and follow him out.

“T-thanks for the ride.” He spoke, taking occupancy in the passengers seat once more as he buckled in for his safety. The man tossed his bag in the back seat with a thud before coming around to the drivers side. He always seemed to pack like he had to be ready for any potential moment, it was amusing.

“It’s no sweat off my back. It’s not out of my way.” He turned the key, the car purring to life as he got himself all buckled in. If he had to remind the kid to eat and even slow down for just a minute at work, was he even eating when he got back to Robbys? He seemed to lose a few inches in his waist, his pants were tied tighter and he was pulling them up more often then prior. He could curse til he was blue in the face for Robbys erratic behavior and decisions. He couldn’t see how it was effecting others, to someone he basically set up and vanished and was a slowly rotting mess from it. It had been nearly a month, just one more week and it would and the bastard couldn’t be damned to answer one damned text. “I just have a stop if you don’t mind that is.”

“No no, not at all. I’m alright with that Dr Abbot”

“We’re out of work kid, you can call me Jack” He corrected in a more gentle tone, looking over for a moment before they pulled out of the parking lot. He was going to make sure Dennis was fed. He didn’t have a shift tomorrow so it’s not like he could subtly keep tabs that way, and if he left whatever was leftover he had no excuse to say there wasn’t anything to eat. It was silent between them once more, just the soft hum of the radio quietly between them, swinging into the parking lot to the small  parking lot of Mineos, parking the car in a spot out front. “I’ll be just a minute, usually they’re quick.” He hopped out, heading into the restaurant.

{We stopped at Mineos?? I guess he might be picking up dinner on his way home}

{Maybe, or maybe he is trying to wine and dine you ;)}

He nearly choked on his own saliva, fingers aggressively tapping at the screen. {Haha, very funny Trin.} 

As soon as he hit send, he heard the door to the drivers side open, and in a moment he was handed two pizzas, lap warm from how fresh they were as the older man buckled up, pulling out. “Thanks for that” Dennis nodded, holding them for the rest of the ride as they approached the house. Instead of pulling up outside, he parked in the driveway, parking the car and killing the engine. The younger man was confused, had he intended on coming in? He didn’t remember him saying anything about it, but just got out once he did, grabbing his bag as he took the pizzas and lead the way.

“Dr Ab- I mean Jack?” He pressed gently, the man already having his key in the lock on the door, twisting and opening as he held the door open.

He looked over his shoulder and down at him “Yeah Dennis?”

For some reason him using his first name made him skip a beat, thrown off his train of thought momentarily before he collected himself. “I wasn’t aware you were gonna stay… I’m not complaining! Oh that came out wrong..”

He couldn’t help but chuckle, flipping the light on as he placed the boxes on the counter, heading to the cabinets to grab some plates. Subtly he looked around. Everything was clean, but untouched. Like nothing dared be touched, but it was obvious signs that he was right about his nutrition. “I figured we could have dinner, none of us probably want to cook.” He placed the plates down, heading to the fridge. There was nothing but a jug of water and a few condiments in the fridge but nothing more, the nail in the coffin that he was right. The blonde had removed his shoes, dropping his bag in the room by the bed as he wandered back out, offering a shy but agreeing smile.

“Yeah, that’s definitely not in my cards tonight, heh.” He grabbed himself two slices, sitting down as he started to eat. He nearly inhaled it, but he didn’t want to embarrass himself in front of him.

“You gotta eat kid.” He broke the silence

“I am eating..?” He mused after he swallowed, confused.

“I mean you have to keep up with it. You have to stay fed and hydrated to function properly, You were getting close to passing out earlier, and don’t think I haven’t noticed. Dana did too.” He mused, tone gentle but also coated in concern.

He could have lied, but he knew better. Jack could see through the bullshit, and he thought he was doing a pretty good job at masking all of how he was feeling and handling things well; but apparently not. He could feel his eyes sting from embarrassment, praying his eyes didn’t start to water.

“What he did isn’t fair on you, and anyone close. I can tell you’ve been basically existing here and not living. There aren’t any groceries, the only place that shows any sign of life is the bedroom you’re in and even then. You make the bed. Not a single thing unloaded from your suitcase,” he sighed, lips pursed in genuine concern. His face softened as he sat up in his chair. “He hasn’t answered a single text has he?”

It almost stung how accurate everything was. He didn’t think it was that noticeable that he was trying to keep busy more, avoiding any moment of rest where his brain could set sail and overthink till he hurt his own feelings. Unfortunately he has been a victim of that more than once. “U-uh.. I mean…no..” He managed to croak out. Why was he starting to feel more emotional? He could feel it building in his chest, a tight knot. “I haven’t really sent anything important that he has an obligation to respond anyways..”

“Me either, but it doesn’t matter what the message, it’s the fact of the silence speaks volumes, and his empathy has run dry.” He took another bite of pizza, watching as he fidgeted. “The point I’m trying to make is I’m here for you. And there are going to be changes that are non negotiable. Days we share same shifts I’m bringing you home, and we will make dinner and you will feed your body. Tomorrow I work overnight, so be ready in the evening and we are going to go get groceries because you’ll save money over that DoorDash shit.” He didn’t mean to ramble on, but he hoped a game plan would help keep the kid on track and not slip into the darkness a mind can produce; you never know what lurks in it.

“Yes sir.” He squeaked, fidgeting with the band of his watch as he finished his food. Jack had placed the rest of the pizza into the fridge to leave behind for him, cleaning what they used as he headed to the door, shrugging his jacket back on.

“Get some sleep Dennis.” He turned, his hand on the knob before the silence was broken with an impulsive and panicked “Jack?” The man turned around, but stumbled back a step once the younger kids arms were around him and his face was buried into his chest. He could feel a slight bit of heat to his cheeks, but not enough to give himself away.

Chapter 7 these two are so cute, i can't even. i was gonna make y'all wait another chapter but i decided a lil treat treat is due.

The rest of the month this became the routine, work, dinner, tv, bed. Jack was hardly even at his own house, mostly to just sleep but even then it was few and far in-between. Dennis couldn’t say he minded.. he really enjoyed the company and grew comfortable with Jacks presence, growing to know him more than how he presented himself at work. The Jack that liked fine wine more than beer which he only really drank socially, that was a really good cook, that liked to spoil him in little ways that even Trinity picked up on. Resistance with the man was futile, and Dennis surely wasn’t complaining about the treatment.

Part of him felt guilty though, for this was his prior interests home, his best friend, and the fact they inhabited it together like it was their own space, and not Robbys. But the selfish part of him didn’t care, he was doing what he had promised after all, he was taking care of the plants and keeping the house clean; and Robby didn’t say he couldn’t not have him over. He hadn’t realized he had been staring at a chart so long, lost in his own thought until he felt a hand on his shoulder giving him a small shake.

“Earth to space cadet, you In their Farmer Den?”

“Yeah sorry I was— wait what did you just call me?

Ellis leaned against the station as she grabbed a clipboard to read its contents, normal smirk tugging at her lips. “Farmer Den, you know like how your parents had a farm.. your name is-“

“Yes very creative, I get it thank you” He rolled his eyes with a sigh as she just laughed, strutting off proudly.  Jack rose a brow, placing a clipboard back in its organizer.

“Farmer Den?”

“Please don’t start”

Jack chuffed, shaking his head as he looked down at him. “I’m picking the movie tonight, and you’re staying awake til the end.” He gave him a knowing look, which was countered by Dennis batting his baby blues up at him.

“I have no idea what you’re talking about, actually.” He lied, finishing typing up the last few notes as he closed the chart. “But no promises, depends on how many glasses of wine and what crazy traumas the rest of the night.” And that was fair, totally fair.

“Yeah sure.” Jack chuckled. The two had become..domestic at this point. Conversations moved smoother and effortlessly, there wasn’t any pressure to please and they still remained professional at work, but at this point it was almost like they were in their own silent, little relationship. He wasn’t the only one thinking this, because Dennis was as well. In fact, he was trying to get up the nerve to even mention it.

“Okay lovebirds, i’m trying to do real work here.” Trinity said as she purposely walked between them, bumping Dennis on the way by. “Plus I need a second set of hands Huckleberry glove up.” 

Of course she did, she was very nosey and nudging..no more like shoving him into just ‘manning up’ and just kiss him already. It didn’t just work that way, did it? Probably worked for her since he has been witness on more than one occasion at the bar smooth talking the girl she would take home that night. He wasn’t sure if it worked like that on men, let alone one that was decades older than him. Jack just rolled his eyes and turned with a half smirk as he was whisked away on the case by an eager Santos. Since his confessions and situationship she had been dying to catch it live, see him embarrass himself. Striding down east, he turned the corner into the patient room. He should have known by Trinitys lack of knocking that there wasn’t a patient in this room that needed a second opinion; it was a trap that he fell for yet again. He should’ve known, he fell for it yet again, shame on him.

“Of course there isn’t a patient.”

“Shut up Huckleberry you are my patient, “ She rolled her eyes, guiding him to sit down on the chair as she handed him an apple juice. “Did you turn your notifications off or what?”

Oh, that was right; he had shared his dexcom readings with her when she found out he was diabetic. “You’re not dying in my house,” as she put it. He had been too caught up in everything with his internal romantic crisis and charting to realize his sugar was dipping low. He sipped the juice like a scorned child as he gave a small shrug. “I did earlier but I thought it was only for 15 minutes, it kept going off earlier when I had a low and corrected it and didn’t want to annoy half the ER.” That served a sour face in his direction as she slingshotted a glove at him.

“I’m gonna monitor my phone like a hawk til I see these numbers come up.” She did the eyes on you motion, heading for the door. “Sit here.”

“Trinity I am an adult I-“

“Be quiet and stay.” She didn’t leave much choice as she left, and the watchful eyes of Princess and Perlah meant that he wasn’t leaving the room behind her back; he knew better than to with how strong those little women were. He nearly chugged the whole bottle, going into his phone as he turned his alarms back on; the time creeping by ever so slowly. After 15 minutes the numbers started to rise, back into a healthy range as he hopped up from his chair, sliding back out into the chaos of the emergency department.

He wouldn’t lie, by the end of his shift his feet were dragging a bit and he was so ready to clock out and take a warm shower, eat, possibly cuddle the handsome older man he was going home with..the one he has been going home with. They had to talk about it tonight, he couldn’t beat around the bush any longer; he had to be a brave boy and initiate the conversation. Three am finally came as he eagerly swiped his badge to clock out, bag slung over his shoulder as he closed the distance between him and the waiting Jack, who was giving a final rundown of a patient to Shen.

“Ready to go?” Jack asked, you could tell he was tired from his voice, and with the few traumas they got last night it was understandingly so.

“Mhm, let’s head out.” He turned to wave to Trinity who was only making the lewd tongue to cheek gesture which ended in a middle finger from him. The bitch, but alas his bitchy best friend. Their paces matched, slight goosebumps to his skin at the slight chill to the air and a slight lingering of humidity from this mornings rain. Dennis climbed into the passengers seat and buckled up. He noticed that it always was at the right settings for him… untouched since the first time he entered the car. That made his heart thrum a little, placing his bag between his legs as Jack got into the car with a grunt, buckling as he turned the car on and headed on their way.

“How hungry are you?” Jack asked, trying to gauge the least prep and cook timed options. “Baked Haddock or Beef Stir Fry?”

“Which one is gonna be quicker?” He asked, a slight hint of impatience. “I’m wasting away.”

“Brat.” He snorted, shaking his head as Dennis sat there struggling not to blush. There was a small moment of silence between them before Dennis spoke up again. “Baked Haddock..”

“That’s what I was thinking, that way we can both shower and change.” He turned right onto the street, and a few houses down they were pulling into the driveway. Jack parked, getting out of the car as he fumbled through keys to get to his to Robbys house. Dennis trailing behind like a puppy as they entered the house, toeing shoes off. Jack nearly slipped as he cursed under his breath from his sock on the tile in the entryway.

“I told you, you should get a pair of the grippy socks from the hospital-“

“Absolutely not, we are not getting into this conversation again.” He threw his hands up, teasing though. He immediately went to the kitchen, getting to work on prepping dinner. “You shower first, I’ll get this started on dinner.”

He nodded, heading down the hall to grab his clothes as he ran the shower. Hot water rushing over his body caused him to sigh in relief. Washing away the gunk of his shift, sweat from working closely with others in a small environment of a trauma room. He couldn’t help but be curious, opening Jacks body wash and giving it a sniff. Rosewood and suede with just a hint of amber, which totally wasn’t now on his wash cloth and cleaning his body, he hoped he didn’t mind. He emerged not long after to the smell of the fish cooking, and his stomach grumbling in response.

“How much longer?” He asked as he padded into the living room. He opted for showering later it seemed as he was in pajamas already.

“About twenty,”

Dennis nodded, biting his lip as he sat down on the couch. He had to get his head out of his ass and just speak. “S-so… what is this..” He felt his heart in his throat as big, nervous eyes looked up at the older man, who was a little taken aback but admired at its boldness.

“What is what, Dennis?”

“Us..” He swallowed, fidgeting with his hands in his lap nervously.

He knew what he meant, and he was whatever he wanted it to be; it wasn’t his to put a label on. “It’s whatever you want it to be,”

His eyes widened, face growing red. “A-and if I want it to be more?”

“Then it would be mutual.” Jack mused, tone soft and sincere with his words. “Was just waiting for you to catch up, sweet prince.”

Dennis was a mess at that, blushing and stumbling over his words. “What do you mean catch up? You always felt..?”

“Mhm. Always thought you could do better too.” He smirked a little at that, looking down at him. “You don’t like to feel cornered or pressured, so I extended my presence and let everything play at a pace you could control and not feel overwhelmed.” Jack mused softly as he gave his leg a squeeze.

“So we are together if I say?”

“If that’s what you want baby boy,”

“Then yes!” He blurted a little too eagerly, but before he could ramble off the older mans lips were against his, and he melted into them. Kiss after stolen kiss at some point he found himself tucked into Jacks side, his own hand moving to caress his face. It was sweet, light, not laced with any expectations than pure adoration. Only pulling away from surprise of the oven timer going off, causing Dennis to jump like a cat.

Chapter 3

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He had no idea how willingly and effortlessly the man gave into the kid. He was frozen in place a minute in shock, before the tension melted, and he wrapped his arms around the younger man just snug enough. A new burning started to course his body, one of feeling of needing to protect him.. something he hadn’t really experienced since he was with his late wife, rest her soul. Jack wouldn’t let it show, but maybe not being alone the night wasn’t such a bad idea, he couldn’t remember the last time someone co-inhabited the same space has him other than the rare occasional hookup; but that didn’t even count.

“Yeah, no problem. Let me just run to my car to get my bag.” He mused in a low tone, gentle. When the hell did that happen? Maybe he was a goner at how quick the kid was slowly settling himself inside a place in his heart. Maybe it was the big blue eyes that always held a hint of whimsy, his plump lips that he imagine would feel against his… stop it Jack. He crossed the threshold, assuring he would return.

Dennis stood there for a moment, his cheeks flushed as well as the tips of his ears. It always was easy to tell when he was flustered, he really didn’t have the skill to hide it. He was in disbelief with his own actions, did he just seriously put his hands on his boss? His face was borderline buried into the older ones pecs, soft but solid with muscle.He wasn’t sure what caused his erratic reaction; loneliness or the fact the boy was touch starved since Robby left. He didn’t think he would crave the touch, the praise the older man gave him but maybe he thrived off of it. Someone telling him he was doing a good job. Like some kind of dog. The younger man padded off into the kitchen, taking a glass from the cabinet as he filled it under the tap and took a drink. He hadn’t know when his mouth had gotten so dry, perhaps when he made a fool of himself.

It felt like years, when in reality it was only a couple moments before Jack opened the door, stepping in before locking up behind himself. It wasn’t too unfamiliar territory. Robby had stood with him for a while after his wife had passed, helping with arrangements and anything Jack was too numb to do in the grief. Between the PTSD from the war and then losing his wife he was a mess, the men found comfort in one another. He would admit, the men did share a bed, and stollen warmth of bodies pressed to each other platonically as good friends, working through such a hardship. Maybe it could be like that for the kid, totally platonic care for one of his residents. Maybe he could convince his brain of that. He tossed his bag on a chair in the living room, flipping the tv on as he nodded his head to sit on the couch; grunting slightly to motion the man to come sit.

“Not sure what you’re into watching but probably different than me. But I’m open to be shown something different.” He mused, watching the kid linger for a moment before he finally sat down on the couch. It was a small step even if he didn’t know it himself. “I’m just not into a lot of that reality tv garbage, like those dating shows.”

Those were a guilty pleasures if he was honest. They weren’t his most frequented media but he fell a sucker to watching people be more awkward than him, strange dynamics of heterosexual folk. Not that there was anything wrong with being straight, he was spiraling in his own thoughts for a moment before he cleared his throat, taking the remote as he moved through the menus. “I like to sometimes watch medical shows and judge inaccuracy…or i’ve been trying out that Yellowstone show.” He felt his cheeks get a little hot at admitting that. “But I grew up on a farm so…”

“Makes sense.” He mused, looking over at him as he lounged back into the sofa. “I like western and old army or action movies, show me that last one you said.” He responded, getting up off the couch. “Get it set up, I’m going to change into normal clothes, maybe you should do the same.”

It didn’t occur to him they were still in work clothes until he pointed it out, chuckling quietly. “Honestly I’m so used to wearing them I forgot.” Dennis set up the show, padding down the hall softly as he headed to the guest bedroom. Usually he was just in his boxers and a shirt given the house was usually vacant of other people but himself, but he reached into his bag, pulling out one of his only pairs of pajama pants as he shed his scrubs, changing into the soft flannel and grey t-shirt. Abbot was already back on the couch by the time he returned to the living room, in a snug military green shirt and a pair of dark grey sweatpants. He really did come prepared for any occasion, and noted internally he won a bet between him, Trinity and Mohan. He sat down on the couch, next to but trying to give him adequate space so he wasn’t intruding.

Jack noticed, he always noticed. He was very attentive to detail and his surroundings, but I guess that would come with the territory of being a veteran of war; old habits died hard. Made him a hell of a good doctor though, and he thrived in chaos so night shift was perfect. He gave the kid the space, cause after all it was just his intern, nothing more. At least Jack tried to tell himself that and regulate the fact his own heart was betraying him with the slightly faster pace. Slowly as the episodes went on, the younger man slowly was sliding down on the couch, swearing he was just resting his eyes for a moment. Soon he was out cold, head in the others lap where he internally cursed himself and lectured his body to not betray him now. The older man reached over, tapping the lamp twice to dim the light, he looked peaceful as he slept..those pouty lips, the soft sound of breathing.He left him there, finishing off the episode before he shut the tv off, maneuvering to easily scoop the man bridal style and carrying him off to the guest room. He had to give it to him because he slept like a rock, even when his prosthetic foot clipped the doorframe when he was pushing the door open the rest of the way with his hip. He placed him in bed gingerly, covering him and shutting the door behind him