Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Smoke was everywhere, thick, burning, suffocating.

Buck moved blindly, mask in place, heart pounding like a jackhammer. He couldn’t see a thing, like being trapped in a dense fog, and he knew the ceiling wouldn’t hold much longer. The walls groaned; the structure creaked like it was seconds from collapsing.

And Bobby was shouting orders he couldn’t quite make out.

The day had started like any other in sunny Los Angeles. Buck, still nursing a broken heart after Abby left, was bored out of his mind at the station. He’d been tempted to say the cursed word just to stir up some action, but held back.

Once had been enough.

Then the alarm sounded, fire in North Hills, a high-end residential building going up in flames. The team rushed out, but by the time they arrived, the fire had already engulfed two floors, and someone screamed that residents were still trapped inside. Buck didn’t wait; he never did. He ran in.

Abby would’ve hated that.

She’d said it often, how he always rushed in without thinking, how he never considered the consequences. She wanted him to protect himself, to slow down, to change. And he, poor idiot that he was, had tried. Really tried. He thought she loved the real him, deep down. But she’d left, left for the other side of the world, promising to come back someday. Four months later, she wasn’t even replying to his texts.

She had moved on. And he’d decided he would too.

He’d spent hours writing a letter, pouring out his feelings, only to realize she never really gave him that same courtesy. So, he’d scrapped it and sent a simple: Take care, Abby. Be happy. He thought he’d feel relieved, but instead he’d been a nervous wreck, pacing in front of the mailbox, wondering if he should actually send it.

Then he took a breath, dropped the letter in, and ran back to the firehouse for his shift. He’d spent the early part of the day stewing, wondering what the hell his life would be like now. Not that he had it bad, he had a job he loved, coworkers who were more like family (especially since his real one had abandoned him, just one more pattern in his life), and he’d just gotten the keys to a gorgeous loft close to work (so long, Abby’s apartment). Proof he was moving forward.

A loud crack yanked him back to the present.

“Firefighter Buckley, do you copy?” his radio crackled.

Buck exhaled and keyed his mic, then paused. A small voice called out faintly through the roar of the fire. He followed the sound, turning off his radio to hear better. He turned the corner and spotted a small figure on the floor, trying to drag a motionless body.

He rushed over, it was a boy, maybe seven or eight, curled up beside an older woman, probably his grandmother. He was coughing, eyes red, frozen in place, choking on the smoke and his own sobs.

“Hey, I’m a firefighter. I’m getting you out of here.”

“That’s my grandma. She won’t wake up.”

“Okay. What’s your name?”

“Christopher.”

“All right, Christopher. I’m Buck. I’ll take care of your grandma, okay?”

He gently tapped the old woman’s cheek until she suddenly stirred, panicked, gasping for air that didn’t exist in this furnace. Still, closer to the floor there was more than where she’d been.

“Bisabuela!” Christopher cried, before coughing violently.

This was bad. Really bad. Buck turned his radio back on, trying to tune out the chaos on the other end. It was madness outside, too.

“Firefighter Buckley to Captain Nash. I’ve got two civilians with major smoke inhalation. Third floor, north-northeast quadrant, hallway, no windows in sight.”

“Buck, you need to get out now. Part of the roof’s about to come down.”

“I can’t get them out alone, I need help, Cap!”

“Buckley, that’s an order!”

“Goddamn bullshit order.” he muttered.

“Please, get my bisnieto out.” the woman begged. “He’s what matters. Please.”

“I’m sorry, ma’am. I’m getting both of you out. That’s my job.”

She tried to argue, but a fit of coughing stopped her. Buck yanked off his helmet and mask, pressing it over her face. He adjusted it so she could breathe, then grabbed his neck gaiter, poured what was left of his water bottle onto it, and wrapped it around the kid’s face. He opened his jacket, scooped the boy up like a koala, and zipped the jacket shut around him to shield him.

Then he helped the woman to her feet, arm wrapped around her to support her weight.

No backup was coming. He knew that.

The fire was out of control, and Cap couldn’t risk sending more people in. So Buck had to go to them. Once outside, someone would take over.

Each step felt like a lifetime.

He could feel the heat burning through his gear, the floor unsteady beneath his boots. Every breath scorched his lungs, pierced his eardrums. It was hell, but Buck kept going. He wouldn’t stop until they were out. He reached the stairwell just as part of the ceiling crashed down behind them.

One more second…

Outside, the fresh air hit him like a punch in the gut. Sirens, shouting, medics rushing in all directions, his team still battling the monster of fire swallowing the building whole. Judging by the chaos, it had hit five-alarm level.

No wonder Cap was losing his mind.

Chimney and Hen ran over and Buck lowered the woman into their arms. Then he unzipped his jacket, releasing the boy, who was immediately taken by medics. The old woman gripped Buck’s hands, repeating over and over:

“You saved us… Dios, you saved us…”

He wanted to smile but was too exhausted to manage it.

He accepted the water bottle Hen handed him and chugged half of it. He screwed the cap back on, trying to slow his ragged breathing just as Bobby grabbed his arm.

“What the hell were you thinking, Buck? You could’ve died! You weren’t even supposed to go in alone!”

“They were going to die.”

“And so were you! You think you’re invincible? You think you can take on anything? You’re dead wrong. I should write you up for taking off your oxygen mask. You know the rules: never endanger yourself, assess the situation.”

“I know the goddamn rules.” he growled. “And I’d make the same choice again.”

“Do you really value your life that little?”

“Honestly, Cap? Between a couple of innocent lives and mine… I made my choice a long time ago.”

“I don’t even recognize you anymore, Buck. You’ve always been a bit of a wild card, but this? This is reckless. When we’re back, you’re off duty for the rest of the day.”

“Cap!” he protested.

“Not up for debate.”

Buck watched him walk off toward the truck.

He’d screwed up.

Again.

And if Bobby fired him this time, he wouldn’t take him back. This job was all he had left; he couldn’t lose it.

How had his life fallen apart so completely?

“Dad!” a voice shouted, and Buck barely had time to see a man drop to his knees and pull the boy into a fierce hug.

He’d found his dad. Buck was glad, at least he wouldn’t have to deliver the news that the man’s son and grandmother had died. That was something.

That was a win.

He coughed again. His throat itched like it used to during those damn pollen allergies when he was a kid. His eyes burned too, smoke. No wonder they weren’t allowed to take their masks off. Christopher and his grandmother had been on the ground, so they were spared the worst. But Buck had taken the full blast. He’d get over it.

He always did.

He headed to the back of the truck, trying to catch his breath. If Bobby suspected smoke inhalation, he’d bench him for longer than expected.

He took a few slow, deep breaths.

His heart pounded in his ears. The air refused to fill his lungs. Pain pulsed in every joint. His head spun, and then a violent coughing fit overtook him.

“Shit.” someone cursed beside him as he staggered.

Strong arms caught him, and he leaned into the warmth of the body holding him up, unable to see anymore.

When had he closed his eyes?

He was so tired.

A woody, spicy scent wrapped around him, something warm and raw, leather and fire, almost animalistic. Buck felt his legs give out as the intoxicating fragrance, a clever mix of black pepper, vetiver, and smoked cedar, slid into him like a caress.

It was comforting.

“Stay with me.” he whispered as he collapsed completely onto him. We need a medic! a voice yelled. A medic, over here! Come on, stay with me!"

Buck wanted to reach for the voice, probably Bobby, but his ears were ringing.

Lack of oxygen, his brain uselessly supplied, just before he sank into unconsciousness.

Chapter Text

The silence was heavy.

He paced his apartment, still cluttered with boxes. A place that didn’t smell like him yet, it didn’t feel like home.

Had he ever truly felt at home anywhere?

He’d spent so much time running that the idea of putting down roots scared the hell out of him. Like the moment he tried to settle, to actually live, everything would just fall apart. And that’s what it felt like when he stopped and looked around: his life, everything that kept him going each day, was slipping away.

Decreased lung capacity.

Rehab was too slow. It was driving him crazy. He wanted to go back to work, do something, get out of here, anything to avoid the reality that his life felt completely meaningless. He was going to blow his brains out.

Not literally, his security deposit was way too high to risk losing it over blood and brain matter on the wall. But still, he was going insane.

He’d tried putting his furniture together, unpacking boxes, but the silence left too much room for his mind to spiral.

He’d dumped the pill bottle onto the table without touching a single one. He wanted to go back to work, but deep down he knew it was hopeless.

The fridge was full of meals he never touched. Just thinking about food made him nauseous.

Three weeks.

Three weeks since he got back.

Three weeks dragging himself through the days like a shell of a man, faking it, answering “I’m fine” with no conviction, secretly hoping someone would see through it and realize, no, he wasn’t fine at all.

Bobby showed up unannounced, arms full of bags, wearing that look caught between worry and patience, like always. Buck felt that familiar tightness in his chest. A weird mix of relief and shame.

He was so sick of those pitying looks, but at least Bobby never hit him with the I told you so.

“You don’t have to do this, you know?” Buck reminded him as Bobby started stuffing new Tupperware into the fridge.

“I know. Have you eaten anything since yesterday?” he asked, frowning.

“A little.” Buck lied, without much effort. “It doesn’t really go down.”

“Buck, I know staying here sucks, but you need this to heal.”

“But will I heal?”

“Why not?”

“I burned my lungs. It takes me an hour to catch my breath after climbing those damn stairs. It’s over.”

“It’s only over if you give up. But if you fight for it, you’ve still got a shot.”

Buck shook his head, trying to blink back tears. Partly out of pride, partly because he didn’t want to say something he’d regret. He was so fucking angry at himself.

“You don’t have to carry this alone.” Bobby continued. “You’ve got a family now. We’re here.”

Buck laughed. A dry, joyless sound. Bitter. It even scared him.

“A family, huh? For how long? Abby’s off on her Eat, Pray, Love bullshit halfway across the planet. My sister’s living her life and can’t even be bothered to reply to a text. And my parents? What a joke, they were thrilled to finally be rid of me when I ran away at seventeen. And you… you just haven’t figured it out yet. Everyone leaves me.”

Silence fell. Bobby blinked, staring at him like Buck had just punched him in the gut.

“One day, I needed help and you were there.” Bobby said quietly, heading for the door.

“Don’t expect me to walk away when it’s your turn.”

“You don’t owe me anything.” Buck muttered.

“See you tomorrow, Buck.” Bobby said, leaving him alone with his regrets.

Shit.

---

He felt it before he saw him.

A shiver. A draft at his back. A silence thickening around him like the world was holding its breath.

Buck looked up from his beer, surprised to find his heart pounding a little harder than a second ago.

He knew he wasn’t supposed to drink, but he wasn’t really taking his meds either, so what did it matter at this point?

Being around people, even alone in a crowd, helped him forget how lonely he really was. For a couple of hours, at least.

And then he locked eyes with a pair of black ones.

Straight posture, broad shoulders, a predator’s stare. Lurking in the shadows, watching, waiting for his next move.

A stranger stared at him with a smirk tugging at his lips. He radiated presence, the kind that made people look twice but think twice about getting close.

Not that Buck was bold or anything, but he usually went for someone a little more... feminine.
And honestly, he’d been celibate since Abby left. Not by choice exactly, but because he’d been too busy crying over his pathetic life to worry about finding connection.

The man held his gaze. Buck didn’t look away. He refused to be the first to blink.
Big mistake.

The man looked amused. He picked up his drink and walked over.

Buck’s breathing hitched as he watched those muscles shift under his clothes and, fuck, he was already half-hard in his jeans.

Buck had never spent much time thinking about his attraction to men.

It had always been shoved in some locked-up box in his head. He’d focused on women, period.

He forced himself to stay cool, even though his palms were getting sweaty.

“You always stare at people like that, or am I just special?” the deep voice asked, settling beside him.

Buck shrugged, trying for a casual smile.

“I’m just guessing what guys with too much confidence drink. Lemme guess, scotch?”

The man laughed, low and rough, the kind of sound that vibrated in your chest.
Buck got goosebumps. His stomach clenched with excitement that went straight to his cock.

That damn traitor.

“Wrong.” the man said. “Tequila.”

Buck turned his head slightly and locked eyes with those mischievous, dangerous brown eyes. That look was dark with desire, and Buck had just as much trouble meeting it as he did keeping his hands to himself.

“You want a consolation prize?” the man asked, ordering two drinks without consulting him, with the kind of confidence only people used to being obeyed had.

Buck took a sip from his still half-full glass, eyes fixed on him.

“Is this your thing? Controlling the conversation, picking the drinks, owning the night?”

It came out aggressive, but bravado was all he had left to keep himself together. He was one step away from dragging the guy into the bathroom and getting fucked.
How could a stranger make him feel like this?

“Does it bother you?” he shot back without flinching, leaning in slightly.

His breath brushed Buck’s skin, and his gaze lingered on Buck’s full, pink lips, begging to be kissed. Buck wanted it so badly and hated how easily he was losing control. Fuck, he wasn’t going back to being that guy from before Abby, the one who used to fuck everything that moved.
He wasn’t that guy anymore. He didn’t want to be.

“No.” he said. “But I hate when people decide things for me. My drink’s enough.”

The stranger raised an amused eyebrow and took a sip from his glass, never looking away.

Buck squirmed, trying to make room in his jeans. He just hoped no one could see his little problem. The man smirked knowingly, and Buck flushed from head to toe.

“I just think you need more than a beer to forget your problems.”

"No thanks. Tequila’s... not my thing. And who says I have problems?”

He just smiled and downed his drink in one go.

Buck watched his Adam’s apple bob and barely held back a groan. How was he supposed to calm down if this guy kept turning up the heat like that?

“Just a feeling. And… your face, you’ve got that weird look, like someone just kicked your puppy.”

“Yeah, well, maybe you’d have the same look if your whole world was falling apart.” he snapped, pissed that the guy was mocking him like that.

“Oh, and moping is gonna fix that?”

“You know what? Go fuck yourself.”

The man stared at him for a long moment; eyes dark. The desire was gone, replaced with something angrier, something that made Buck almost scared. Then he stood up, threw some bills on the table, and walked away without another word.

Buck just sat there, dumb as a rock.

The heat of the night vanished in an instant, unfortunately, his erection didn’t, and frustration clung to him like sweat after a fire. He finished his drink, irritated by the tension crawling under his skin, and made his way through the crowd to the restroom.

If he didn’t let off some steam right now, he’d end up picking up a random guy and fucking all night long. And he wasn’t sure that wouldn’t do more harm than good.

He nearly jumped back when he saw the silhouette leaning against the wall just past the door.

“Jesus.” he hissed.

“Watch your mouth.” the man chided, shoving him gently against the wall.

Buck flattened himself against the tiles, trying to stay as far away as possible, even though every cell in his body was straining toward him. He was just inches away, close enough for Buck to feel the heat radiating off him, but still not touching.

“You thought I’d just let you walk away like that?” he said.

Buck felt his fingers brush his arm, sliding slowly down to his wrist, barely a caress, like a warning. He stayed frozen, torn between the instinct to pull back and the burning need to close the distance, to dive into a game he didn’t know the rules to but desperately wanted to play.

“What is this?” he panted, voice rougher than he wanted.

The man tilted his head, that smirk still there.

“Bet you like pushing your limits.”

Buck didn’t answer.

His breathing was shallow, and not from the chill of the tiled wall. His heart slammed against his ribs, too fast, too hard, like his body had already decided for him.

He held his gaze, even with the storm inside him.

“And you? Who the hell are you? Some guy who shows up, fucks with people’s heads, then vanishes laughing?”

The man moved closer, until their breaths mingled. Buck didn’t move. Couldn’t.

“Did I shake you up?” he teased.

Buck opened his mouth, but no sound came out.

Then he felt fingers graze his arm and suddenly yank him forward. Their bodies pressed together and Buck froze, his erection crashing right into the other man’s.

At that point, he wasn’t even sure he was still breathing.

“Interesting.” the man breathed against his lips. “First time with a guy, huh?”

Buck raised his chin, then let out a half-laugh, half-panic sound. He wasn’t sure if he wanted his first time with a man to happen in a bar bathroom, but his body was screaming yes.

“Maybe. So what? Gets you off being the initiator?”

The man laughed, genuine this time, more real than anything else he’d said. He raised a hand, and without touching him, traced an invisible line between their bodies, a cruel, fragile barrier.

“If I taught you… you’d never let another man touch you again.”

The words cracked like a whip in the air.

It was like a threat, dark and arousing, and something twisted inside Buck, coiled tight in his gut. Not just desire, but dizziness. Fucking vertigo. And he wanted it, god, so bad it hurt.

He should’ve stopped there, should’ve backed off. But what did he have to lose?

So, he stepped forward, just enough to close the space and feel the heat of that hard body again.

“Try me.” he whispered.

The man slammed him back against the wall, pressing his body flush against his.

He reached up, fingers sliding under Buck’s collar, grazing the skin just beneath his ear. He let his nose trail along Buck’s jaw and Buck bit his lip to keep from moaning.

“If I taught you.” he murmured, "you wouldn’t let any other man touch you again, just me.”

It was a promise. And Buck wanted it more than anything, even if it was only once in his life.

He closed his eyes as the man’s tongue flicked over the tight strip of skin between his jaw and neck before biting down.

Holy. Fucking. Shit.

It was slow. Deliberate. Almost possessive. Buck’s head tipped back, and a shiver ran through him. He nearly lost his balance and a desperate moan escaped before he could stop it.

Then, just as fast, the man pulled back. His face was different now, colder, closed off, somehow even hotter.

“Here’s some advice.” he whispered. “Don’t try to find me again. You might regret it.”

And then he was gone, just like that, leaving Buck breathless and aching.

He stayed frozen for a few more minutes, heart pounding, a delicious and unbearable tension crawling under his skin, trying to figure out what the hell had just happened and if he’d already screwed it all up.

He was so damn fucked.

Chapter Text

He hadn’t planned to take that street.

Or even to go shopping, really. But there was something comforting about wandering through the aisles, comparing vegetable prices as if his life depended on it. Besides, it gave him a reason to get out, to try and take back control of his life.

The past month had left him drained, exhausted, but oddly calmer. He had stopped wallowing in self-pity that night, the night when dark, burning eyes had locked with his, when a deep voice had brushed his skin like a promise.

That night, when he got home, he’d made the decision to fight.

For two weeks now, breathing had been a little easier, and he could start working out again, lightly. He’d been tempted to push harder, to test his limits, but when Hen told him it would undo all the progress he’d made, he let go of the stupid idea. So, he was trying to be patient, hanging out at the station during A-shift duty with his crew, his family, following his rehab program to the letter and walking around the rest of the time.

Anything to avoid being alone with his thoughts, and thinking again about that man who had scrambled his senses.

Even though nothing had actually happened between them. Not really.

But Buck couldn’t sleep without replaying that scene, without thinking about the heat of that body so close to his own, without reaching for the mark on his neck that had now faded.

He was obsessed.

He was about to head to the checkout when he heard a little voice calling him.

“Mr. Buck! Mr. Buck!”

Buck turned and immediately recognized the child.

He couldn’t help but smile and crouched down as the kid came toward him as fast as his crutches would allow. He was about to ask if he’d had an accident when he realized that wasn’t it, and he shut his mouth to avoid making him sad.

The kid had a disability, and Buck hadn’t even noticed when he pulled him out of there. Not that he’d had time to focus on that kind of detail. Christopher, that was his name, he remembered now, wasn’t defined by his disability. He actually seemed like the sweetest kid Buck had ever met.

Not that he spent a lot of time around kids, but he loved them, and they seemed to love him back.

“Hey champ.” he said. “What’s up?”

“Abuela and I came to buy stuff for lunch. She says Tommy doesn’t know how to pick vegetables.”

“And I still stand by that.” said the older woman as she joined them.

Buck stood up and offered his hand, but she waved it away like every grandmother does, and gave him a hug. Buck leaned into it, a little surprised but more than willing.

“Oh, okay.” he smiled.

How long had it been since someone had just held him, no agenda, no pity? It felt so good just to be seen. He pulled away and put on his bravest smile.

“I’m glad to see you both. You look like you’re doing well.”

“Thanks to you.” the older woman said.

“I was just doing my job.” he replied modestly.

“And you almost lost yours.” she reminded him.

“My captain always says it’s our role to risk our lives to go where no one else can.”

“But your captain wanted you out way earlier, and you stayed. That’s what saved us.

From now on, Buck, you’re in my heart... forever.”

“Please, ma’am…” he started, a little embarrassed.

“Not ma’am, she scolded him. For you, I’m Abuela. You’re family now, nieto.”

Buck’s eyes welled up again.

His own family had turned their back on him, and yet this woman wanted to take him in as her grandson. Buck hadn’t spent much time in Peru, but he spoke Spanish very well.
Abuela seemed to notice his silence and gently stroked his cheek with a kind smile.

“So, how about we head home for lunch?” she suggested, making Christopher beam.

“Mr. Buck, can you come with us?” he asked hopefully.

“It’s just Buck, champ. That’s my nickname, okay?”

“Oh, okay, I get it. But are you coming anyway?”

“Well…”

“Of course he’s coming.” Abuela cut in. “Look at how skinny he is. Abuela’s going to fatten you up, mijo. Plus, I want you to try my tamales. Everyone says they’re perfect, but you will be honest with me.”

Buck opened his mouth, then shut it again.

It wasn’t like he had anything better to do, anyway.

And if he could have a family for an hour or two, who was he to say no?

“Well, I can’t say no to that.” he gave in.

Buck took Abuela’s basket, it was way too heavy for someone her age.
He listened closely as she gave him tips on picking good vegetables. Buck loved food, but he didn’t know how to cook. He was too afraid of messing it up, so he stuck to ordering in, or benefiting from his captain’s culinary talents.

At the checkout, Buck tried to chip in, but Abuela refused, saying he was a guest and guests don’t pay.

Buck gave in, she may have been sweet, but she was clearly not someone you argued with.

He carried the groceries on the way to her house, which was very charming, though maybe a little big for someone living alone.

But it was probably a rental, her apartment had burned down a little over a month ago.

He was glad she’d found a new place so quickly.

Others weren’t so lucky.

“Can you help me unpack the bags, Nieto? Then you can go play that game

Christopher claims he’s unbeatable at.”

“Don’t you want help, Abuela?”

“Oh, you’re so sweet, Nieto, so helpful.” she said, patting his cheek. “Go play with Christopher. Have fun, enjoy yourself. Then we’ll eat, and you’ll tell me everything. I want to know it all.”

“There’s not much to tell.” he said, unloading the bags. “My life’s pretty boring, honestly.”

“I doubt that. Firefighters are heroes.”

Buck didn’t know what to say.

It was the first time someone really cared about him, not just what he could offer.
He swallowed his emotions. He wasn’t going to cry again in front of her like a kid.
But he was so unaccustomed to being accepted so easily.

Abuela was offering him a family.

It was all he’d ever wanted.

“Thank you, Abuela.” he whispered.

“You can thank me after your belly’s full.”

Buck smiled and looked around.

The kitchen smelled like cilantro and coffee.

He never would’ve thought he could feel so at home in a place he didn’t even know.

He watched Christopher playing video games, his feet tucked under him on the couch, while Abuela busied herself in the kitchen. She talked to Buck like she’d known him forever, and he let her.

He couldn’t remember the last time he’d felt this… at peace.

“Abuela.” a deep voice said, making him jump. “Why did you play that trick on Tommy? It’s his job to…”

The man froze at the same time he did.

Buck had trouble swallowing when he recognized him, those brown eyes locked onto his. He swallowed again, noticing the man’s gaze drop to his throat, then slide up over his lips before returning to his eyes.

“I didn’t know we had a guest.” the man finally said, regaining his composure.

“Buck’s the firefighter who saved our lives.” she reminded him. “Christopher’s and mine. We met at the supermarket.”

“A fortunate encounter.” he murmured, not taking his eyes off him. “I’m Eddie, Christopher’s father. Thank you for saving his life. And my grandmother’s.”

Buck shook the hand he offered, but Eddie didn’t let go. Instead, he pulled him a little closer and… Buck wasn’t small, okay? He was tall and strong. But this guy… Buck knew this guy could do whatever he wanted to him and he wouldn’t even complain.

“I… Buck. That’s… my name. I mean… It’s nothing. It’s my job.”

“Buck?” Eddie asked, stepping even closer. “What kind of name is that?”

“Edito!” Abuela scolded, smacking his shoulder with her wooden spoon. “Don’t be rude.”

Eddie let go with a smile.

“Sorry, I didn’t mean any disrespect.”

“It’s…” Buck swallowed. “Nothing. I… It’s a nickname. There were three Evans in my class at the academy and… they started calling me Buck, short for my last name, Buckley, and…”

And he doesn’t care, Buck! he mentally shouted at himself, giving his brain a well-deserved slap. What’s next, giving him your social security number?

“So yeah… it stuck. And I kinda like it.”

“Evan’s prettier.” Eddie replied.

Buck opened his mouth, but nothing came out when he realized Eddie’s eyes were locked on his lips and… this man was going to drive him absolutely insane.

“So?” Eddie asked. “I heard you got hurt in the fire?”

“Oh, uh… Nothing serious. Just some smoke inhalation.”

“But don’t you guys have oxygen masks or…?”

“Stop bothering him.” Abuela scolded again. “I told you, this boy saved us, and he’s fine now. That’s all that matters.”

“I’m just trying to get to know him, that’s all.” he defended, with all the innocence he could muster.

Buck could practically see the horns on his head. For some reason, imagining him as the devil made Buck feel hot all over, and he forced his thoughts back to safer ground.

“I… I had a lung collapse from the burning ash I inhaled, but I’m really fine now. The doctors cleared me to return to duty next shift.”

“A collapse?”

“It’s not that bad, I…”

Buck trailed off when Eddie’s eyes darkened. And even though he looked angry, Buck thought he looked sinfully good surrounded by that dark aura.

Eddie opened his mouth, but his son called out, and he quickly went to him. Buck watched him disappear and scoop his child into his arms. Then, he exhaled a breath he hadn’t realized he’d been holding.

He swallowed again, thinking this lunch was going to be long, really, really long.

Chapter Text

He had spent the entire meal watching him.

Not subtly, subtlety wasn’t really his thing, but not obviously either. Just enough not to seem rude or give himself away. Eddie laughed with his grandmother, cut up the vegetables on his son’s plate, answered questions about his job while staying vague, but always with that gentleness that made Buck want to cry.

There was nothing stiff about him, nothing calculated. Nothing of the man Buck had shared a moment of near-intimacy with. Nothing of that sexy seducer with predator eyes who had sent him spiraling into desire so intense, not a single night had passed since their meeting without Buck imagining those eyes on him, full of want.

There was only warmth, familial, soft, tender. It ran through Eddie’s veins like second nature. Something Buck never would’ve expected, a side of him he found achingly attractive, too. Beyond the smoldering magnetism that had his body burning like a wildfire, this domestic side pulled at something deeper. Buck wanted that. He could see himself by his side so clearly.

He was falling in love, and it was screwing everything up.

He’d told himself that night, their meeting at the bar, had been a mistake. A slip-up. A moment of weakness. Maybe even something Eddie regretted, a lapse in judgment that explained why he hadn’t seen him again afterward.

But all through dinner, Eddie kept throwing him dark, heated looks, so intense, they were almost feral. Looks that said: I want you. Every inch of your skin. Your taste. Your moans. Buck had felt heat bloom everywhere, his lower back, behind his knees, in his throat until he could barely swallow.

And every time Buck shifted in his seat, trying to make more room in his jeans, Jesus, thank God they were at the table, Eddie would flash that damn smirk, that predator gaze that made him blush to his toes.

When it was time to leave, Buck said goodbye to Christopher with a smile and headed into the kitchen to thank Abuela and Eddie.

Tommy can do the shopping, Abuela, Eddie scolded. That’s what he’s here for.

I prefer doing it myself, the old woman replied stubbornly.

Then at least let him come with you to carry the bags, instead of sending him across town to bring back something useless while you sneak off with Christopher.

Edmundo, she chided. I’m not senile yet.

I never said that. But you’re not as young as you used to be, Abuela.

And just how old do you think I am, you insolent boy?

Okay, okay. Sorry, Abuela. But let Tommy do his job, he’s getting paid for it.

She sighed deeply.

Hmm. I’ll think about it.

Eddie rubbed his face wearily before turning to Buck.

He jumped, clearly uneasy about being caught watching, but he straightened his shoulders quickly, trying to compose himself.

I’m back on shift tomorrow, so I’m heading home to get some rest. Thanks for having me, Abuela.

You’re welcome anytime, nieto. This is your home now too.

Thank you, Abuela. I’ll hold you to that. Your tamales are easily the best food I’ve ever had.

Charmer, she giggled.

Eddie, he nodded, ready to head out.

I’ll drive you, Eddie cut in, pressing a kiss to his grandmother’s temple.

It wasn’t a question or even a suggestion. It was almost a command, and Buck swallowed hard. He wanted to protest, say no, but his voice caught when Eddie looked at him with that, I dare you to challenge me expression.

I’ll be right back to tuck in Christopher; he told his grandmother.

He waved, and Buck followed him out.

They headed toward a brand-new car, where a man in a polo shirt approached with a professionalism that ruled out friendship.

Don’t let my grandmother drive you crazy, Eddie said.

That had to be Tommy, most likely Abuela’s home nurse.

One glance was enough for Buck to size him up. Tall, fit, and with a certain clean-cut charm. Safe. Respectable. Buck caught himself staring too long and looked away, cursing himself. Sure, the guy was attractive, but not with Eddie’s magnetic pull.

They exchanged a few more words, which Buck tried not to overhear, shifting nervously from foot to foot.

Then Eddie motioned for him to get in, and Buck climbed into the car, wound up tighter than a drum. Eddie pointed at the GPS, and Buck entered his address silently, his heart pounding in his throat. He was mere inches from the man who starred in every fantasy he’d had for weeks. He could still feel his tongue on his skin, his hands gripping his hips, the way his gaze had burned when desire rolled hot under Buck’s skin.

Being in such a small space with him, after holding himself back for two hours, was pure torture.

He pinched the inside of his thigh hard enough to leave a mark, trying not to get hard. He needed to calm the hell down. What happened at the bar wouldn’t happen again, and he couldn’t let himself hope. Eddie was just being polite.

The engine started, and a few minutes passed in silence before Eddie broke it.

Isn’t it a little soon to be back at work?

Buck blinked, caught off guard. He hadn’t expected a conversation, especially not this conversation.

It was none of his business, too.

What?

I mean… I was a military medic. A collapsed lung is serious.

The doctors cleared me. And I’m on light duty for now anyway.

Eddie nodded, as if half-satisfied with the answer.

Buck let himself glance at him from under his lashes. Beyond those dark, haunting eyes, Eddie had a sharp jaw and a determined look. Buck didn’t know who this guy really was, but now he knew he’d been a military medic, and he was tempted to ask more. But war was ugly, and most guys came back broken with some brutal PTSD.

He didn’t want to make things awkward, so he kept his mouth shut.

Thank you, Eddie said softly, breaking the silence again.

Buck frowned.

You already said that, he reminded him.

Eddie smiled faintly.

I never say thank you twice. This time, it’s not for saving the two most important people in my life. It’s for not worrying my grandmother about your health.

Buck said nothing.

He was starting to connect the dots. The two most important people in his life. His grandmother and his son. No woman in the picture. So Christopher’s mom wasn’t around anymore. Buck made a mental note not to ask about that either.

Not that he wanted to get to know Eddie, anyway.

What would be the point? Sure, he’d loved spending time with Christopher and Abuela. He could maybe arrange to see them again sometime. But he should stay away from Eddie. He couldn’t afford to fall in love. He didn’t want the pain.

But did he really have a choice? Whether he liked it or not, hope was already crawling under his skin like an itch he couldn’t scratch.

He shut his eyes.

Stop it, Buck. It was a fluke, too much booze, too much heartache. It didn’t even go that far. It won’t happen again.

The car stopped in front of his building.

Buck undid his seatbelt and murmured a thank you, ready to leave, but Eddie’s hand landed on his thigh to stop him. High. Way too high. And the heat surged through him again, his breath catching.

Buck froze.

“I… I tried.” Eddie murmured. “Tried not to look for you, to get you out of my head, to keep you out of my world.”

“Why?” Buck asked, voice tight.

Eddie looked away.

“Because I’m not sure you could handle it.”

“What?”

Eddie’s dark eyes locked onto his.

“You were supposed to stay away from me, Evan.”

Buck shivered.

He hated his first name, too many memories of parents who didn’t love him, but in Eddie’s mouth… it felt so intimate. Still, it was rejection. Clear, sharp. Eddie was asking him to stay away. Again. And Buck knew it would come to this. He didn’t deserve someone like Eddie, but the ache in his chest still clawed at him.

He clenched his fists.

“Don’t worry.” he said, voice cold. “Message received.”

He opened the door, slammed it behind him, and stormed into the lobby of his building.
He punched the elevator button, fury trembling in his fingers. He just wanted to go home, curl up on his bed, and cry himself to sleep. Rejected again. No one could ever love him, his parents had been right about that all along.

When the elevator doors opened, he stepped inside, holding back tears, and pressed the button for the fifth floor.

But before they could close, Eddie was there, right in his arms, pressing him against the wall and kissing him like his life depended on it.

Buck could’ve pushed him away. He should’ve. But he was weak, okay? Starved for his touch, desperate to be wanted, even if it was only for a moment.

Judge him all you want.

He wrapped his arms around him, gripped the back of his neck, and kissed him back, eagerly. It was rough, feverish, desperate, but full of fire. Buck felt his stomach twist with need.

By the time the elevator stopped, they were still kissing.

Eddie didn’t let go, dragging him along by the waist, all the way to his apartment. Kissing him like it was the last time, like, maybe, he hoped it was just the first of many.

Buck fumbled with his keys, while Eddie’s mouth was still devouring his, lips moving like he wanted to eat him alive. His hands gripped Buck’s ass in a possessive hold that made him dizzy.

Buck prayed he’d leave marks, something to prove this wasn’t a dream.

The door closed behind them, and Eddie shoved him up against it, hands already under his clothes, tongue exploring his mouth like he wanted to taste his soul.

Buck gasped.

He didn’t know where he was anymore. Nothing mattered but Eddie’s hot body pressed against his own. His sweatshirt slipped from his shoulders, Eddie giving him that dark, hungry grin before stepping back just enough to look him in the eyes.

“Take your pants off.” he whispered.

Buck obeyed; breath short. He’d barely undone the button before his legs trembled from anticipation. He yanked everything off in one go, his erection springing free, thick and flushed.

Eddie’s gaze lifted, slowly.

“Long and thick.” he murmured, biting his lip.

Buck’s heart exploded in his chest.

Literally.

He wasn’t even sure he was still breathing, and when Eddie’s hand wrapped around him, he moaned, a needy, humiliating sound. Eddie kissed him again, rough and deep, hands gripping his hips, guiding him toward the couch.

Buck’s shirt disappeared over his head, but Eddie used it like a makeshift restraint, binding his wrists with the soft, stretched fabric. He pushed him down to his knees and positioned himself behind him. Buck didn’t resist, he wanted this, wanted him, even if he’d regret it tomorrow.

Tonight, he wanted everything.

He wanted to be flipped, folded, broken, split in half if that’s what it took. He clung to the fabric twisted around his wrists and to the back of the couch, breath caught between desire and delirium. He moaned again as a finger slid in easily.

Fuck.

He took Eddie in like his body had been waiting for this all its life.

“Looks like someone’s been having some fun alone.” Eddie murmured, amusement and heat in his voice.

“Just… watching…” Buck panted. “Fuck.”

Eddie touched his prostate, and Buck saw stars.

“I like this.” Eddie whispered, pulling back after a few minutes of teasing him open, leaving him shaking with a mix of pleasure and need.

Buck whimpered at the loss, almost a sob. But then he heard Eddie’s belt buckle, and he was already praying, not sure to whom, to just be taken.

“I’m not gentle.” Eddie warned, positioning himself. “So, I need to know you’re okay with that.”

He knew what he was doing. And yeah, it might break him. But Buck wanted it.
For him.

To feel alive.

“I am.” he whispered. “Please.”

He didn’t let him hesitate.

He pushed in, and he wasn’t lying. The stretch was slow, deep, controlled… and lubed?

When had he done that?

Buck didn’t know, and he didn’t care. Not anymore. All he knew was that Eddie was hitting exactly where he needed, again and again and again. And it was everything he wanted.
He felt him deep inside, rough, unyielding, but Buck didn’t want tenderness. Not tonight. Not with this emptiness he needed filled. He’d regret it later. Probably. But he didn’t want him to stop, because right now, he wanted him more than he’d ever wanted anyone.

His moans filled the room, uncontrollable, almost shameful.

Eddie leaned over him, pushing even deeper, his hand pressing against Buck’s throat, not to threaten, but to control, to hold him up. Buck could hear his ragged breathing by his ear, his voice breaking from the pleasure, and he was about to lose it completely.
And when Eddie bit him, right where his neck met his shoulder, Buck came. Hard. Too hard.
His cry was rough, shattered by his labored breathing and the erratic pounding of his heart. He collapsed against the back of the couch, drained, almost boneless.

Eddie followed seconds later, breath choppy, then slowly pulled out. Buck whimpered at the loss and turned his head just in time to see Eddie removing a condom, one he hadn’t even realized he was wearing.

Fuck, this man was driving him insane.

But the hungry, desperate look in Eddie’s eyes was already gone. What was left was that unreadable mask again, the armor he always pulled back on, as if he hadn’t just given Buck the most intense orgasm of his life.

He dressed in silence and headed for the door.

"Will I see you again?” Buck couldn’t help but ask.

“We’re not supposed to.” Eddie said, without looking back.

And yeah, it hurt.

Being cast aside like that after something so powerful. Eddie was right. He would never let another man touch him again, not because he hadn’t loved it, but because no one else would ever measure up. He’d always be searching for Eddie in someone else’s hands.

“You have no idea what you’re walking into, Evan.” Eddie added, his voice cold, still facing away.

“And what if I still want to?” Buck asked, desperate, hating himself for it.

“Get some rest. Be careful tomorrow.”

Buck frowned.

He didn’t know if that meant he’d see him again or not. He hated feeling suspended like that, hanging by a thread over nothing. But the choice wasn’t his anymore. He’d have to wait, and hope.

Eddie left without another word.

Buck pulled the throw blanket over his naked body, the back of the couch still damp from his own forgotten release. It would leave a stain, but he didn’t have the energy to care tonight.

He was disappointed not to feel Eddie’s arms around him, disappointed he couldn’t feel loved, couldn’t feel safe, when he was still so raw and vulnerable.

All he wanted was a little love, but he knew he’d already gotten more than he deserved.
Shame washed over him, shame at having been used, and he never wanted to leave this place again, never wanted to remember that look or that touch. But deep down, he knew he wouldn’t be able to forget.

A few tears escaped as he called himself an idiot and finally fell asleep, exhausted.

Chapter Text

One week.

Seven days without a single message. Seven nights staring at the ceiling, replaying that last sentence on a loop: “I warned you not to get close.”

Eddie had vanished off the face of the Earth, and Buck was left feeling like an idiot, hard as a rock anytime he thought about those dark eyes or touched the fading mark Eddie had left on his shoulder. Thank God it was almost gone, he had no idea how he’d explain that to Chimney and Hen, the two biggest gossips at the station. So, he’d started changing at home.

He spent his free time obsessing over what he’d done wrong, trying to figure out what that man wanted from him, until his rational mind reminded him: If Eddie had wanted more than to bend him over, he would’ve stayed.

He got what he wanted, and now Buck didn’t interest him anymore.

Once again, Buck had been played. And he couldn’t understand why it always happened to him. A rhetorical question with no answer. There was only this suffocating void, and that burning ache in his gut he just couldn’t ease.

No matter how many times he touched himself, explored, tried everything, nothing satisfied him. It was driving him insane, wound up tight 24/7.

That morning, he arrived at the station earlier than usual. Not because he was motivated, but because he was going stir-crazy at home. And in the kitchen, surprise was waiting.

A big basket filled with golden pastries, stuffed waffles, honey-glazed brioche, neatly packed berries, freshly squeezed orange juice… And most of all, a small ivory card.

For Evan.

Buck shivered.

Evan.

Not Buck.

Never Buck.

Except for his parents and sister, both of whom he hadn’t heard from in forever, Eddie was the only one who called him that. His heart leapt in his chest. His fingers trembled as he traced his name on the card. Hope bloomed in his chest, hope that maybe he hadn’t just been another notch in the bedpost. That maybe, just maybe, he had meant something. That someone might actually want him for more than just one night.

Chimney and Hen weren’t far behind.

“Whoa, what is this, Christmas?” Chimney whistled. “What the hell is all this?”

“It was delivered for Buck this morning.” Bobby said as he walked in.

“You win some fancy food radio contest and forget to tell us?” Hen teased.

“Who’s the lovesick puppy sending you gourmet sweets from New York?” Chimney added.

Buck instinctively pulled the card against his chest as Chimney squinted, trying to read more.

“New York?” he echoed, confused.

“That pastry there, it’s the Rolls Royce of croissants.” Chimney said. “There’s like a year-long waitlist!”

“And it’s all the way across the country.” Hen added, raising an eyebrow.

Buck forced a smile.

“Probably my parents… trying to make up for… you know, being absent.”

They stared at him with raised eyebrows, clearly not buying a single word of it. Hell, he wouldn’t have believed himself either. But it was the only excuse he had.
And it sounded a lot better than: It’s from the guy who scrambled my brain and fucked me senseless last week.

“Help yourselves. It’s all yours.”

Hen arched a brow but didn’t push further.

Chimney was already inhaling waffles like he hadn’t eaten in days. Buck took the stairs two at a time and slipped into the truck, shutting the doors behind him for a shred of privacy.

His hands were shaking as he opened the card, heart pounding.

Eat. You’re too skinny.

Buck closed his eyes.

His stomach twisted.

He had no idea what Eddie was playing at. One minute he was screwing him until he forgot his own name, then radio silence for days, and now this? A gift that made no sense.

He didn’t need this. He didn’t need some half-assed reminder that Eddie had ghosted him without a single word, only to pop up again and play puppet master from afar.
And yet… a pang of desire clenched in his gut.

He fought it off, breathing slow and deep. He wasn’t a toy. And if this was Eddie’s way of saying he wanted to see him again, too bad, he wasn’t going to respond.
Besides, he didn’t know anything about the guy, aside from his abuela’s temporary address.

Buck jumped when Bobby opened the truck door.

“You okay?” Bobby asked gently. “You look shaken.”

Buck sighed.

“I don’t even know, Cap. This gift… I met someone, and I can’t figure out what he wants from me. We meet up and it’s… it’s really good, I feel good with him. But then he disappears without a word and… I’m lost.”

Bobby didn’t flinch. He just sat beside him.

“Mind if I give you some advice?”

“Go ahead. I wouldn’t have brought it up if I didn’t want your opinion.”

“Tell him how you feel. Make sure you know how he feels. Make sure you’re on the same page about whatever this relationship is.”

Yeah, they were definitely on the same page when it came to sex, that much was crystal clear. Buck wanted it all with him: rough, filthy, desperate. But the rest? The kisses, the tenderness, the intimacy? That was another story.

Buck ached inside, starving for the right to be loved properly. But he couldn’t ask for too much.

If Eddie agreed to this, to being with him like that, maybe that was already more than he deserved.

“It’s mostly physical between us, but we’re… in sync. I just wish he’d meet me halfway. A date, or even just some time together.”

“Then why don’t you ask him?”

“Because I’m scared he’ll walk away if he doesn’t want the same things.”

“What you’re describing, the way you feel, it sounds a lot like love.” Bobby said. “But be careful, Buck. Even if you care about him, you can’t carry the whole thing on your own.”

Buck let out a dry, bitter laugh.

“Knew you’d say that. And I know you’re right. I do want to be with him. But I’m tired of getting burned.”

He paused.

“I’m tired of picking up the pieces.”

“Then talk to him, Buck. Be clear about what you want.”

“Yeah… you’re right.” Buck admitted, fully aware he’d never find the courage.
There was just too much at stake.

“And… I’m sorry. About last time.”

“You don’t need to apologize.” Bobby said firmly. “You did the right thing by setting your boundaries.”

Buck nodded, grateful.

“There’s a building on Wilshire, Prime Media. Faulty detectors. You’re still on light duty, so this one’s for you.”

“Perfect.” Buck said, taking the address. “Sounds like just the distraction I need.”

---

The Prime Media building loomed like an ivory tower.

Thirty-one floors.

Buck felt suffocated before he even stepped into the elevator. He showed his badge at the security desk, stated the nature of his inspection, and was escorted by a blonde assistant who was as cold as she was arrogant. She led him into an office where a woman with a mane of fiery red hair was waiting.

She reminded him of Abby, but he quickly pushed that intrusive thought away.

She stood and walked over to him, flashing a perfect-toothed smile. She looked about his age, with flawless skin accentuated by light makeup. She wore a white blouse with a modest neckline, a tight black pencil skirt, and heels that were probably ridiculously expensive. Buck had never been into that type of woman, but he knew they were into him, and he had taken advantage of that in the past, back when he didn’t always know where his next meal was coming from.

He pushed the memory aside.

“I’m sorry, but you can’t go in. Mr. Diaz is busy and asked not to be disturbed under any circumstances.”

He blinked.

“I don’t get it. I was told to check the detectors within the hour.”

“Plans change.” she replied with a smile, placing her hand on his arm. “But you could check my detectors, if you want.”

Buck stepped back, trying to escape her touch, but she closed the distance between them, invading his space. His hands curled into fists. Every time he put on the uniform, women thought they could grope him, and while he’d played into it last year, that was before Abby. Now it just disgusted him that they thought they had a right to touch him without even asking.

He was about to politely but firmly ask her to back off when the door behind her opened. He jumped, then froze.

Eddie stood there in a dark, perfectly tailored suit, his eyes burning with intensity.
And fuck, Buck went hard instantly.

“I’m the one who reported the faulty detectors.” Eddie said with a smirk. “And I believe you have work to do, Miss Kelly. If our firefighter would be so kind as to come in…”

Buck walked in without a word.

He was torn between the overwhelming urge to punch Eddie square in his pretty face… and the even stronger urge to kiss him breathless. Eddie made the decision for him, he grabbed Buck by the belt, pulled him close, kissed him deeply, bit his lip, then tugged on the collar of his uniform shirt.

“It’s about time. The mark you left is almost gone.” Eddie murmured.

He gave him a fresh hickey.

Buck groaned. He was already reeling. Eddie, just by standing there, already had his mind twisted up and his body on fire.

“I’m supposed to be working.” Buck panted, just for show.

“I don’t care. That’s not why I had you come here.”

“You… you didn’t know it’d be me. You could’ve gotten anyone.”

Eddie straightened and looked him dead in the eye.

“I specifically asked for you, Evan.”

The name cracked like a caress, and Buck stepped back. What the hell was going on? What was Eddie even doing here, and who was he really? Did he have that much power?

“You… you can’t do that.”

Eddie smiled.

“I have power, Evan. And I’ll abuse it if that’s what it takes to bring you to me. I told you not to come near me. Now you won’t be able to get rid of me.”

“I don’t want to.” Buck breathed.

Eddie pulled him close and kissed him again, deeply, like he was trying to merge with him. Buck clung to him like he was the only thing holding him up. His stomach churned with desire and the fragile hope that maybe, just maybe, Eddie wanted him as a person, not just as a toy.

Eddie broke the kiss, still gripping his ass. He was so damn beautiful, so fucking hot, that Buck had to fight not to moan.

“I got you a present.” Eddie whispered.

Buck frowned, but Eddie took his hand and led him to the couch. Buck hadn’t had time to look around before, but the office was massive. A chocolate leather couch and two matching armchairs surrounded a coffee table, where a box was waiting.

Eddie motioned for him to sit and sat beside him, placing the box on his lap. Buck felt his excitement and hoped that was a good sign, though his hands trembled slightly.

Eddie was pressed up against him, looking at him with worship in his eyes, and the heat between Buck’s thighs surged. He opened the box quickly and found a pair of black leather handcuffs with red velvet lining, sleek, elegant, strong.

He was speechless.

“They’ll look amazing on you.” Eddie whispered. “Do you like them?”

“I… do you want to tie me up?”

“If you think about it, I already have.” he chuckled. “Don’t you want that?”

“I… I don’t know.”

“It’s freeing to let go, you know? But if you’re not into it, I won’t force you.”

Buck looked up.

He swallowed hard. He wanted to let go with Eddie. He was ready to do anything to be with Eddie, but Bobby’s words echoed in his head. He couldn’t let himself get destroyed by another one-sided love again. He deserved better.

“What do you want from me, Eddie?”

Eddie smiled slowly, his gaze burning.

“I want everything, Evan. Absolutely everything.”

Buck’s heart swelled with love, and he crashed his mouth against Eddie’s. Eddie held him close, tongue pushing into his mouth, then pulled back, breathless.

“I’ll take that as a yes.”

Buck glanced at the cuffs again and reached for them with hesitant fingers. Eddie took his hand and gently placed it on the leather.

It was surprisingly soft, and Buck imagined wearing them while Eddie slid inside him. He barely suppressed a moan.

“So, Evan… do you want to play with me? Can I cuff you, touch you, fuck you until you forget your own name?”

“Yes.” Buck breathed. “Fuck yes.”

Eddie carefully fastened the cuffs around his wrists. Then he stood, tugged on the chain, and pulled Buck toward his mahogany desk, pushing him to lie back on it.

“You’re going to stay right at the edge, Evan.” he murmured, unzipping his pants. “And you’re not going to move.”

Buck obeyed, trembling with anticipation.

Eddie was going to fuck him on his desk.

And holy shit, everyone was going to hear just how much he loved it.

Moaning for Eddie wasn’t the problem, but knowing everyone else would know what they were doing? That was something else.

“Wait, Eddie, I… Everyone’s going to hear us.”

“I like hearing you.”

“I doubt your assistant feels the same way.”

“I don’t give a shit about that stuck-up cow. But if it makes you feel better, the office is soundproofed. Every little noise you make? Just for me.”

That time, the moan slipped out. How the hell could Eddie say things like that? It was so fucking hot. Eddie slid Buck’s pants down his long legs, caressing his bare skin, then, without warning, slapped him with a sharp smack.

“Ah!” Buck gasped, startled.

“Don’t pretend you don’t like it. Your body already answered.”

He spanked him again, making him yelp, and a familiar heat flooded through him. He was ashamed to admit it, but yes, he definitely liked it.

“Evan.” Eddie growled.

“Yes.” Buck whimpered. “Please.”

Eddie obeyed, spanking him at random across his ass and thighs in a delicious torment that promised he wouldn’t be able to sit down for the rest of the day.

He suddenly spread his cheeks, brushed against his skin, and murmured:

“Someone’s been having fun all by himself again…”

Buck flushed all the way to his toes.

How the hell could he know that? He didn’t have a damn sign on his ass saying Evan Buckley plays with his prostate every night!

At least… he hoped not.

“It’s… not forbidden, as far as I know…”

“As long as there’s no one else involved, I’m fine with it.”

“Jealous much?” he tried to tease.

Eddie grabbed a fistful of his hair and yanked his head back, leaning in close to his ear. Buck was almost sure he was about to bite him.

“I don’t share, Evan.” he growled low. “No one gets to touch you. I won’t allow it. You follow my rules, and I’ll take care of you.”

“Yeah.” Buck whispered.

“Yeah, who?”

“Yes, sir.”

Eddie let go of his hair, and Buck exhaled, trembling.

He wasn’t afraid of Eddie, not at all. In fact, it was insanely hot, the way he claimed him, not like he was giving orders, not in a twisted way, but more like he was saying… We’re in this together. Officially. Like a couple, sort of.

His ego really liked that.

“Relax.” Eddie breathed behind him.

Buck tensed when a cold finger slipped inside him, making him moan softly. Then a second finger joined, and then a third.

“Holy fuck… Eddie!” he choked out, forehead pressed against the desk.

“Breathe, Evan.” he soothed, stroking his back with his free hand. “You can take a lot more than that.”

He pressed against his prostate three times in a row. Buck literally saw stars and came with a muffled cry, forehead stuck to the mahogany, fingers desperately clawing at the edge of the desk.

A tiny voice in the back of his mind noted, uselessly, that at least this time he wouldn’t have to clean up his mess. He stayed there, panting, until Eddie pulled his fingers out. Buck let the aftershocks rock through him for another few minutes.

“I need a favor, Evan. I need you to hold onto something for me.” Eddie murmured, and Buck nodded, eyes still closed.

At this point, Eddie could’ve asked for the moon, and he’d try to bring it back. He felt something cold being pushed into him, it was smooth, heavy, and…

Did Eddie just put a silicone plug in his ass?

“Still on light shift?” Eddie asked, helping him up.

Buck nodded, breathless from the sensation.

“Good.” he smiled. “Then you’re going to keep that in all day, and you don’t touch yourself.”

Buck wasn’t sure it was smart to wear a plug during his shift, but he was still a little dazed from his orgasm and the plug was brushing perfectly against his prostate.

“I’ll come get you after your shift.” Eddie added, unlocking the handcuffs on his wrists.

Then he helped him get dressed, saying nothing more. Buck was already half-hard again, seconds away from begging Eddie to fuck him, to make him come again. God, it was going to be the longest shift of his life.

“You can’t just show up at the station like that…” Buck muttered.

Eddie cupped his chin and kissed him gently, effectively silencing him. When he pulled back, Buck leaned in again, chasing his lips. Yeah, he was already addicted to this man.

“Be safe.”

Buck groaned.

And this time, he rolled his eyes. Eddie responded to that bit of insolence by slapping his ass, making Buck jump.

“Fuck.” he hissed when the plug hit his prostate dead-on.

“You’ll need to watch that mouth.” Eddie mocked, squeezing his ass, drawing a sharp yelp from him.

“Sorry.” he whimpered.

“Good.” Eddie smiled. “You learn fast. I like that. I’ll take care of you. Now go back to work.”

Buck left the office, still shaking with pleasure and burning with desire. He was even a little disoriented. But damn, he felt so alive.

Eddie’s assistant gave him a knowing look with a smirk, and Buck looked down, red with shame at the thought she might’ve figured out what just happened in her boss’s office, judging by his appearance alone.

She jumped when her phone rang and answered the intercom.

“Yes, sir?” she asked.

“Miss Kelly, we need to have a little chat. Now.” Eddie’s voice echoed sharply.

Buck bit his lip to keep from laughing when she stood bolt upright and marched straight into Eddie’s office. Apparently, Eddie’s no-sharing policy extended to his assistant’s wandering hands.

And if Buck had to come back here… well, that didn’t sound so bad.