STARFISH|Mini Series | Drabble 3

“Fish, it was an accident. Stop beating yourself up.” Santi keeps his voice low, watching Little retreat into the house to look for you half an hour after you had gone inside to rest after your fall.

You hadn’t returned, and he was concerned that you were in pain or more injured than you let on. Little had rolled her eyes before stating she was going to check on you, giving Frankie a pointed look he didn’t understand before heading to shore.

Frankie and Santi were sitting together at the end of the dock now. Will and Benny were in the water with Rosie, taking turns at attempting to teach her how to swim. He turns back to watch them, nods to confirm to Santi friend that he heard him, but makes no reply.

He’d just admitted, quietly as Little moved out of ear shot, that he’d lost his grip on Rosie’s hand because he’d been absolutely blown away by how gorgeous you looked. She was a good kid, usually stayed close to Frankie, but the sight of the ocean seemed to have overwhelmed her and she’d taken advantage of his loosened hold to rip away, teetering dangerously close to the edge of the dock.

If it hadn’t been for your quick thinking, he doesn’t know what would have happened.

Frankie was hard on himself—everyone agreed, and told him as much. Always reminding him that he’s an amazing single father and doing more than his best. But if that were true, why was Elena so eager to leave? He knew it wasn’t love that they shared, but once Rosie was born he was smitten, ready to commit to her for life in order to stay with his little girl.

It was clear very quickly after bringing the baby home that she didn’t want to be with him, and had no illusions that they would make it work. He tried to transition things as amicably as possible, biting his tongue every time she flounced away on a girls weekend or didn’t answer his calls after forgetting to pick Rosie up for her scheduled visits.

Elena had been too generous when it came to dividing the parental rights, and it had been Little who had reviewed the paperwork and pointed it out to Frankie. He’d been elated to be the primary caregiver, and hadn’t put too much thought into what that really meant. And then the months started going by and she became even less involved in Rosie’s life, weening her from breast milk and cancelling her weekends completely at the last minute.

But Frankie had held out hope all that time that she would get through the phase and want to be Rosie’s mother. Until the day that she sent over the final papers, releasing her from all parental rights.

He’d seen it coming…but it had been a huge blow, nonetheless. And while he still mourned the loss for Rosie’s sake, he was much happier with her no longer in the picture. It had taken time, but then Little and Santi got engaged and he found himself growing closer and closer to you.

“I don’t know about you man, but seeing a person completely disregard their own well-being to save a kid…I mean, she didn’t even hesitate,” Santi smacks his hands together loudly, “I thought she’d broken something until you pulled her out of the water.”

Frankie grunted, “So what’s your point? I know I can never repay Star for what she did.”

Santi shakes his head, his gaze settling on Frankie. “I just mean, holding yourself back from a good person—I did that for years Frankie. I’ve loved Little for years and the whole time you tried to convince me to just admit it to her. Well, now it’s my turn to say the same thing to you.”

“Not everyone gets that happy ending, Pope. Even if Star did like me,” Frankie sighs roughly, glancing around to ensure no one was listening, “I’m a recovered addict, PTSD ridden old man with a toddler. She’s young and talented and her family is fucking loaded. What would that look like? I’d be saddling her down with far too much baggage.”

Santi is silent for a minute, just long enough that Frankie hopes he made his point but when his friend finally speaks again it’s clear he has a lot more to say.

“You can’t keep punishing yourself for Elena’s failings. She never deserved either of you, and you didn’t do anything wrong. You deserve to be happy and Rosie deserves to grow up with a father who finds joy in life,” Santi’s hand stretches out to pat Frankie’s leg, “Star might not be the one—although I have good money on a bet that she is. But closing yourself off from these things, it ages you. Makes you tired and resentful. Just think about it, Frankie. You deserve to be happy.”

touched by his friends openness, Frankie reaches down and briefly grips his hand. When he pulls away and looks back out to watch Rosie in the water, she’s giggling so hard it makes them all laugh, and he feels something inside of him chip away. Like a last fragment of guilt, blowing away into the wind.

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STARFISH | Part One ⭐️

Summary: Star is content to spend time alone relaxing (and daydreaming about Frankie) after Little and Santi’s destination wedding. But toddler Rosie Morales ensures that’s not how the vacation goes…

Warnings: Language, adult themes, injury, mention of blood, (eventual smut).

A/N: Here we go, part one of the follow up to my Little mini series! Can’t wait to hear your thoughts!!

You dreamt of Frankie Morales when you went to sleep. The way his eyes fixed on you as you sang with Santi on the beach, his gaze warm and kind. How he had looked in his suit, and then how handsomely disheveled he became as the night wore on until he was rid of his tie, a few buttons undone, revealing the tan, hair-speckled chest beneath. How gently he’d held you as you danced together, as though he thought you were delicate and his large hands had to be extra careful.

The sunshine woke you late the morning after the wedding, golden rays filtering through the California shutters you forgot to properly close in your haste to fall face-first into bed when the reception had wrapped up. You were naked, save for your underwear, and a quick pass of your hand over your face reminded you that you had managed to wash away the makeup before going to bed. When you finally rise from the luxurious sheets and pad to the en-suite bathroom, you see your pretty dress pooled on the floor, a set of false lashes next to it, and your heels kicked against the nearest wall.

It looked as though you had evaporated, and you laughed to yourself before freshening up. You took time to hang your dress, then changed into a comfortable lounge set. You stared at yourself in the mirror for a few minutes, eyes drawn to your chest.

You had promised yourself that this week was a vacation, where you were staying among friends, and that meant you didn’t need to wear your usual bras. You could get away with wearing this looser, insanely comfortable sports bra. But as you gazed at your reflection, you felt that twist of self-consciousness that always arrived just before you were to be around others. Your chest had been the biggest, in every sense, target for bullies growing up. And now as an adult woman, it was all the men seemed to find interesting about you.

Usually, once they stopped admiring your tits, they didn’t stick around much longer.

This was one of the many reasons that had brought Little and you close when you went to school together. She was beautiful, curvy and busty and unapologetic—you adored her confidence, her determination to ignore the ‘standards’ and just be herself. And she sensed your anxieties pretty quickly, promptly spending the formative four years of university encouraging you to love yourself, pulling you out of your comfort zone at times. And she was just there for you, supporting and loving you no matter what.

But her confidence only rubbed off so much, and while you looked at yourself now and saw a gorgeous figure, you still cared too much about what others thought when they looked at you. It was impossible to completely ignore the intrusive thoughts, especially when, time after time, men usually proved to be thinking exactly what you suspected them of. You had been ‘accidentally’ groped or brushed against too many times to count, which was why you had formed the habit of wearing constricting bras and avoiding low-cut shirts. You wanted to fully love yourself, but sometimes you thought it would just be easier to get a reduction and slink into the background.

You were pulled from your thoughts when you heard some laughter filter in from outside your open windows and promptly pushed away your concerns—it was vacation. You weren’t looking at a normal bra for seven more days.

Based on the direction of the laughter and voices, you guessed there was a larger group in the kitchen and dining room now. Santi had done a great job on securing this place because it came with everything—even a large staff dedicated to attending to all the guests’ needs. You had poured over the online brochure for the AirBnB during the flight to Hawaii, and know that there was a number you could text for room service. You found the number, already saved into your phone, and ordered a light breakfast and dark coffee. When it arrived, you happily wheeled the cute breakfast cart out onto your private balcony and relaxed with a podcast as you ate and watched the earlier risers settle in on the beach.

The balcony had dividers between it and the rooms on either side, but they didn’t fully extend so you could, in theory, walk next door. But Little, in all her match-making efforts, put your room right next to Frankie’s, stating it was ideal for the best man and maid of honour to be close to one another. And while she wasn’t technically, wrong, you still knew her well enough to know that wasn’t her primary motive.

She had sensed the chemistry between you and her friend straight away, but you denied it at first. You’d almost walked into a wall when you had first seen him at the wedding of a mutual friend he, Santi and the Millers had also attended, but you knew immediately who he was and that he was certainly not going to be interested in a much younger woman. He had a kid, for fuck’s sakes. But the more you got to know Frankie, the harder it became to deny that there was something there between you. And the harder you had fallen.

It hadn’t helped that, for the last six or so months, you’d been helping her plan her wedding. Which meant that you and Frankie saw a lot of one another. Eventually, you had started texting on the regular—always about the wedding, even if sometimes it evolved into sending memes back and forth or making jokes at your engaged friend’s expense. And you might have sent him a dozen-ish photos of your rescue pit bulls, Anna and Elsa, while he sent cute shots of Rosie being adorable.

You were friends, it was normal banter really. Even if every time he messaged you, a warm sensation would fill your belly it was entirely platonic.

You’re sipping on the final dregs of your coffee when Little appears below, holding a large mug in hand and appearing to be speaking. You pull your AirPods out and stand, catching her eye.

She grins up at you, “Morning, Star!”

“Oh, good morning Mrs. Garcia!”

She giggles at this, and Santi steps into view and spins to look up at you, his grin an extension of Little’s. You don’t miss the way his hand secures to her lower back. “That’s the first time today anyone has said that! I love the sound of it.”

Little rolls her eyes at her husband, then adds to you, “We’re going to relax at our little cabana on the beach, come join us whenever okay?” She gestures over her shoulder, where a small, mint-painted beach cabana sits among the spattering of shaded loungers.

“You’ll see me once I’ve had my second cup of coffee. I’m still recovering.”

Little and Santi laugh, send you friendly waves and make their way along the path, away from the concrete and grass surrounding the infinity pool and into the sand. You watch them with a small smile, your heart swelling with happiness at the sight. Little had been in love with Santa for a very long time, and when she’d called to tell you they had gotten together because she’d overheard him admitting his feelings over the phone—to Frankie, no less— you had been over the moon for them both. Helping her plan this wedding was one of the great honours you could have been given.

You contemplate the rest of your morning because in reality there is a lot to do. Or a great number of places to go ahead and do nothing, including a tranquillity room, movie theatre, onsite RMT, steam room, private beach, pool and hot tub—the list went on. It was paradise, and you were momentarily overwhelmed with all of the options laid out before you. You had to remind yourself that you had seven days left to enjoy this place, so you didn’t need to get all of your relaxing squished into one day. You decide to make your way down for another coffee, changing so that your bathing suit is on under your lounge set, the green of the suit peeking out from beneath your peach-coloured shirt and shorts. You pack a bag with the essentials, including a book, water bottle and sunglasses, and head for the kitchen.

You give your room a final once over, ensuring you haven’t left a big mess for the housekeeper. It is a beautiful room, filled with rattan furniture and live plants, soft white linens and orange accents throughout. The bathroom is open to the bedroom area, the only thing hidden behind a door was the toilet itself, so you could see the large soaker tub and tiled shower, and couldn’t wait to take advantage of both later that day.

As you wander downstairs, happy that you can’t hear any voices, you think of Anna and Elsa. This was the first trip you’d taken since rescuing them two years before, and though you trusted your veterinarian parents to care for them perfectly, you still ached for them and wished they could understand why you had left, that you’d be back before they knew it.

When your turn the corner at the bottom of the stairs, you barely take two steps before slamming into a wall. The wall grunts, hands shooting out to steady you as you reel back in surprise, and you look up to find a tousle-haired Frankie standing before you.

Oh, Christ. He looks good.

“Shit, sorry Frankie!”

He smiles at you shyly, a hand reaching to rub the back of his neck. “No worries. How are you?”

He still hasn’t taken a step back, though neither had you for that matter, and you catch his masculine scent now; an intoxicating blend of freshly mown grass and cedar. “I was worried that Rosie wouldn’t sleep well, being in a new place,” He replies, his smile widening, “But she’s taken to it fine, which means I’m sleeping well. So I’m great, how are you?”

You laugh, happy for him because, with all he had been through with his ex, you knew he deserved to relax more than anyone. You remember suddenly what you’re wearing and blanch because your figure is more accentuated in this outfit, but his eyes haven’t strayed from your face for even a beat. Whether he finds you attractive or not, you appreciate how Frankie was a true gentleman.

“I’m really good, thanks. Slept like the dead, now I’m going for another coffee to take down to the beach.”

“I’ll see you there in a little bit. My mom and Rosie are on the same nap schedule,” He lowers his voice teasingly, and you giggle. You try not to notice how his eyes brighten. “I’m just going to wake them up, and then I want to take Ro swimming.”

You nod, “Sounds like a plan. I’ll see you soon, in that case.” You part ways from him and resist turning to watch him make his way up the stairs. It wasn’t about checking him out; you just really liked looking at Frankie, memorizing the ways he moved, the expressions on his face, what made him laugh.

Yes, you had it bad for the man.

You’re relaxing in your lounger, grateful for the shaded canopy and enormously comfortable cushions, reading one of several books you’d brought on the trip. Others filter by, most saying hello but giving you your space. Recognizing that as maid of honour, you were more than due for a good rest.

Benny stops by on his way to tease Little and Santi, who are swimming in the blue ocean water, and you end up having a fun conversation with him. You’re retelling one another the best moments of the night before, and agreeing on the parts you hope made it onto the wedding video—and the ones you hoped didn’t. You’ve always really liked Benny, he seemed to sense the type of person you were in that same way that Little had, and he had a way of making you feel normal. Where you and Will had a friendly enough relationship, Benny felt more like a brother. Protective and encouraging and just really nice.

When Will comes along, he says hi to you before Benny—who gives you a quick hug—leaps to his feet and bounds towards his brother, ready to wrestle in the water. You laugh, watching them dunk one another, then a large splash hits Little and Santi jumps into the tussle, and your friend makes her way out of the water shaking her head in exasperation. When she plops down next to you on the lounger, you’re both snorting with laughter.

“It’s like they’re twelve. Santi literally said ‘don’t be a butthead’ to Benny,” Little giggles, and you both watch them for another minute before she turns to you and lowers her voice. “So, how are you doing today?”

“I’m supposed to ask you that, Mrs. Newlywed.”

Little doesn’t take the bait, and you never expected she would. “You know what I mean, Star. Are you having fun? Can I do anything for you?” This was the thing about Little. She was not just a good friend, she was a thoughtful and caring one, the kind that you could call at midnight and ask to move a body and she’d show up with shovels. Which was basically what had cemented your friendship several years before, though you weren’t going to think about that right now. You were on vacation.

You lean in and press your forehead to hers briefly, “This place is incredible, I’m extremely happy. Please stop worrying.”

“I just…I know you never get time for yourself. Or to have some fun and unwind,” She takes hold of your hand and applies light pressure, “I know you have busy shifts with the rescue, long hours. I just want this week to give you the break you deserve—the wedding was absolutely perfect and that’s in great part because of you, Star.” At this, you sigh softly and pull her in for a proper hug.

She was right that you barely had time for yourself, you worked a lot at the rescue as a vet tech, a job you loved and wouldn’t change for anything. You were hoping to get a couple of new techs hired and trained so that you could reduce your hours in the next year or so, but it wasn’t an urgent thing. You just wanted a little more free time, because currently, you were operating on hardly any, always either working, sleeping or making your way to and from work. Around the time that Little had asked you to be her maid of honour, you had made the permanent switch to daytime shifts, and your life had greatly improved with the steady routine.

But you still had a dismal social life, only occasionally going out with Little or spending time with your parents. And dating? You literally would have to give up sleep to bother with it, and since you were hung up on a man completely out of your league, that wasn’t happening anytime soon either. So you understood her concerns entirely.

“Little,” You pull back from the hug and give her an encouraging smile, “You don’t need to be so worried, I’m having fun. I’ll try to socialize, I promise.”

She grins back at you, then glances down at your outfit, “Is that the swimsuit we picked out together?” She’s beaming with pride that you’ve worn it, and you shrug with a smirk pulling at your lips.

Little coaxes you into the water, and after applying another layer of sunscreen and ridding yourself of your clothing, you follow her into the cool ocean. You love the water and sink into it quickly as you glance back toward the beach, instinctively seeking out who might have seen you in your swimsuit. Will and Benny are sitting in beach chairs in the shallow water, deep in discussion, while Santi is back at the cabana, cracking open a drink. His eyes are on Little in that rapturous, protective way that makes your heart swell with joy for them. They were perfect for each other, there was no way around that.

You spend a good half an hour swimming and chatting with Little, who tells you about the new woman in Benny’s life that he’s insisted is just a friend, but she suspects there may be more to it. And when it came to Benny, both of you knew that if he was feeling something for someone, he would deny it. He liked to be the bachelor, the ladies man because he was afraid of commitment. You tell Little that he just needs to find the person he won’t be afraid of doing anything for.

Eventually, her brothers grow bored and begin taking turns jumping off the end of the dock situated at one end of the beach. You aren’t surprised when Little takes your hand and leads you out of the water, eager to join in on the fun. You let her pull you along, happy to break out of your comfort zone and, other than her brothers and Santi, no one else is around. You glance back to see if he’s coming to join in and almost stumble in the sand.

Frankie is standing with Santi, his eyes locked on you as he speaks with his friend. Rosie is in his arms in a cute little one-piece swimsuit that has the Little Mermaid on the front, and she’s craning her neck to look towards the noise the boys are making on the dock. But all you can focus on is how Frankie watches you, even as you meet his gaze, and you feel heat flood your cheeks. “Jesus,’ You turn away as you speak, and Little looks at you, eyes searching your face before she looks back.

“Oh,man, Frankie looks like he got hit over the head. You realize that you look like a goddess right now, Star?” She slows her pace so that she can keep her voice quiet, her head leaning closer to yours.

You scoff, “Please, Little,” But she cuts off your protests before you can even begin.

“He looks at you like that all of the time. Like you hung the moon,” You glance back at him again, trying not to look too obvious, and find that he is making his way over to the dock now too, being tugged along by a giggling Rosie, her little feet sinking into the sand. Looking away, you smile to yourself, but you can feel Frankie’s eyes on you, your senses in overdrive, and you wish you could be brave enough to just look around and smile at him. Toss a flirty wink, just like Little would do with Santi.

But you were no Little (Miller) Garcia. And Frankie Morales was most definitely not interested in you. You try to ignore the swell of misery within—Frankie was the perfect man. The universe seemed to enjoy dangling him in front of you, showing you everything you wished you could have was just out of reach.

The Miller brothers make more noise at the end of the dock as you and Little step onto the warm wood, drawing your attention their way as they do elaborate jumps into the water. You gaze along the side of the dock, into the shallow water, where you can see several large rocks piled. There’s a little sign on one of the dock posts here, advising to walk along this first section, and you can see an orange line painted across the dock just ahead, the indicator that the water deepens and clears starting there. You’re so focused on the line that you lose track of your feet and stub your toe on a slightly raised plank, hissing in pain.

You pause and bend to inspect it, ensuring there are no slivers. “All good?” Little says, patting your arm with concern, and you smile at her, opening your mouth to respond.

When Frankie’s panic-stricken voice cuts through the air, you both turn in alarm. He’s at the end of the dock, now rushing forward because Rosie had pulled from his grip and was darting toward Little happily, her giggles in stark contrast to the horror on Frankie’s face. She’s not much of a runner at her age, so Rosie teeters back and forth in a way that would be adorable if it weren’t for how close she was to the edge that drop into the rocky shallows.

“Rosie stop!” Frankie’s voice is strained in an effort not to sound too scary to his daughter as he yells, but she glances backward anyway, her legs still moving, and you react before you think. It’s probably because you’d spent years dodging kicks and bites and swats from your animal patients, that your reflexes work the way they do.

Frankie isn’t as fast as you, and you have the advantage because she’s moving towards you and Little—you shoot forward as fast as you can, and just as she sees her dad chasing her and loses her footing at the edge, you drop down and shove your arms out, catching her in the chest so that she’s knocked toward Frankie.

You see him catch her, hear her confused whimper, but the momentum you created darting toward her so quickly gives you no ability to correct yourself, and you skitter, then plunge right off the dock, falling face down into the water.

You hear the way your leg smacks off of a pointed rock, and then pain is lancing through your face as it glances off of another one. You’re dazed, but still aware enough to feel the splinter of pain in your thigh, and you cry out—only you’re underwater, so it’s garbled and you push your hands out to try and get your bearings and raise yourself—

“Mi amor estas bien?” Frankie’s rumbling voice fills your ears as he lifts you, turning you in the water before pulling you up and into his arms, and you don’t even register what he said, really, but you lock onto the fierce concern in his expression and the words begin to sink in. “Cariño? Jesus Christ, Santi get the first aid kit!” He yells, and you feel him moving out of the water and tilt your head, looking down your body.

You can see the brutal gash on your leg, and immediately recognize it’s not as bad as it could have been—but it gushes a decent amount of blood, and it stings from the saltwater and you whimper again.

“F-Frankie—is Rosie-?”

“Cariño, she’s perfect thanks to you,” You look at him again, surprised at the strain in his voice. He sounds wrecked, and you want to ask him if he’s okay but you don’t know how, and something about the way he’s holding you as he carries you—your instincts say that he’s not okay, and to let him take charge here. He reaches a lounger and begins to lower you down carefully, but your leg is jostled and the pain peaks; you start to cry, short sobs that you try to hide—Frankie makes a noise in his throat, and then his hands are cupping your face gently. “Mi amor, I’ve got you, I’ll take care of you. Please don’t cry.”

You stare at Frankie because this time, the words smack you right in the face and you can see that he means them. That he called you his love, twice now, and as you realize this, you see understanding flash in his expression and he doesn’t correct himself or try to deny it. Instead, he presses a soft kiss to your forehead, and then the others are surrounding you and a first aid kit appears and you can only slump back and cover your face.

The man of your dreams just said something that might change your life, but you couldn’t do shit about it right now. And then realization sets in that you just fell off a dock in front of him, and you want to die of humiliation.

You tilt your head to look away and your eyes land on Little, who has Rosie in her arms and one hand over her mouth—but you recognize the way she’s trying to hide her smug smile, and you glare at your friend. Her expression changes, and even though she doesn’t speak, you know exactly what she’s saying.

‘I told you Frankie loved you, didn’t I?’

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STARFISHMini-SeriesDrabble Two

The phone rang and rang with no answer, and you were about to give up until finally Little’s voice cut through the shrill ringing.

“Star, hey! What’s up?”

You clutched your iPhone closer, keeping your voice low as you sat in the staff room of the rescue. No one was around, but you liked to be cautious. “Little, oh my god—“

“Shit, did you kidnap anoth—”

“No,” you hastily interrupt her, flames on your cheeks, “Jesus you always bring that up every chance you get.”

Little’s contagious laugh makes you—reluctantly—smile at the memory.

“It’s just fun to mention the most badass thing you’ve ever done whenever I can,” She giggles, then you hear her shuffle and realize she must be lounging at home. “So what’s the tea?”

“Well I sort of met Frankie the other day when I was leaving your place…”

“Iwondered if you two had crossed paths.”

“Uh huh, well,” you pause, trying to find the right words. But then you remember who you’re talking to and decide to just be aggressively honest. “I can’t get him out of my head, Little. He seemed so sweet, and genuine. Am I insane for liking him when—”

“If you mention the action gap I’ll drive over and punch you,” She grumbled, and you realize you’ve inadvertently stumbled on a sore spot for her. You know she’s got it bad for Santi, who she now lives with as a roommate. You’re not sure how she does it.

“Sorry, I know. I mean, there’s the whole evil-ex-and-adorable-child angle. Or the fact that he saw my car.”

“Are you seriously saying that he won’t like you because your rich?” Little’s question doesn’t throw you—you’d expected her arguments.

“We’re not rich, Little. Just very lucky.”

“That’s exactly what a rich person would say,” You join in laughing now, dropping your head into your free hand and sighing. “Star, none of those things really matter. If you like him, you’ll have to get to know him better. There’s no reason to rush—I promise you, his ex is out of the picture. She’s coming back to town this weekend actually and I think she may be giving Frankie the papers releasing herself from parental rights with Rosie.”

You were at a loss for words at this news, and it took a few moments to recover. Sadness for Rosie and Frankie swept over you. ‘God, then it’s not exactly a good time to be bothering him.”

“Just give him a bit of time, I know you two would be a great match,” Little sighs softly, “And before you think it—be definitely won’t judge you for what you did.”

“You can’t know that for sure,” You reply, pinching the bridge of your nose. You remember the faces of the couple who mistreated their three dogs, vividly even after all the time that had passed. “He might look at kidnapping and forging fake papers as a big red flag.”

Little snorts into the phone, “Star! You took those abused dogs out of an unlocked car and brought them to safety. You cared for them. They are living happy lives with that dentist couple over in Fort Lauderdale because of you.”

You shake your head, more to yourself considering your friend can’t see you. “I still technically broke the law—”

“Uh huh, and you got a stern warning from that detective. No one wanted to punish you for intervening and Frankie is not going to either!”

“You keep saying ‘you’, Little Miller, but I distinctly remember it was your Jeep that transported the dogs,” You say, smiling as your friend laughs again, “Maybe you should tell Santi what a rebel you are. He might like a bad girl.”

“Yeah, that’s not happening—oh, he’s just home now, I’ve got to go!”

“Bye, Rebel!”

“Talk soon, dognapper!”

Want to request a scene, moment, etc? Submit your asks now for the STARFISH series drabbles!

Thanks to @mermaidxatxheart for this request!

@idreamofboobear@nicolethered@evyiione@mermaidxatxheart@paintballkid711@ladydmalfoy@hnt-escape@wyofabdoms

Meant to Be

Masterlist

Summary: Frankie was always the one who got away but when you learn that he’s retired from the army and has moved back home. Your life falls apart.

Relationships: Reader x Original ‘Male’ Character, Reader x Frankie Morales

Warnings: Like A03, I chose to give none. 18+

Your husband wasn’t a cruel man. But as time had gone on you’d come to learn he wasn’t a good one either.

Your life revolved around him. His wants and needs and never your own. But he supplied you with a safe, comfortable life and that’s all you could have really hoped for. You’d loved him once and you were sure he had to but as the years had passed childlessly, your once blossoming romance had fizzled into something sour. You knew he resented you for not giving him a child. Blamed you for it and you blamed yourself to a degree but as the months blended into years, you found you blamed yourself less and came to terms with the fact that your having kids wasn’t meant to be.

You’d imagined your life differently as a younger woman. You’d imagined it with a different man if you were being honest with yourself. You thought you’d met the one as a teenager but, like most childhood sweethearts, he got away. Francisco Morales. The man of your dreams had shipped out to the army as soon as he’d graduated and your relationship had lasted another year after that before you’d called it quits and broken the man’s heart. Something you’d regretted to this day and had never imagined you’d see him again. How wrong you’d turn out to be.

“Did you hear the news?” Your best friend Sally asked as the two of you browsed through the sale rail of your favourite clothing store.

Your obvious look of confusion was all the answer she needed to know that you were oblivious to the latest gossip to spread around town.

“Morales moved back.” She elaborated and your breath caught in your throat “Retired from the forces and decided to kick out the tenants renting his folk’s old place and moved in himself.” She finished, shrugging her shoulders as she pulled out a sweater she liked the look of.

“Oh.” Was your reply, suddenly completely disinterested in shopping anymore.

“Think you’ll see him?” She asked and this grabbed your full attention.

“Why would I see him?” You questioned, eliciting a snigger from your friend.

“We all know you never go over him.” She stated and you felt your heart start to race and your cheeks grow hot “Thought you’d be all over, seeing him.”

“I’m married, Sally.” You warned and she scoffed.

“Yeah to a man that barely looks at you and who’s definitely shagging his assistant.” She grumbled and you felt a sting at her last statement.

“You don’t know that.” You choke and her demeanour changed upon hearing the crack in your voice.

“I’m sorry babe.” She started as she threw a hand around your shoulder “I shouldn’t have said that but you deserve better than the life you have.”

“I’m fine.” You replied with a shrug “He keeps a roof over my head, clothes on my back and food in my belly. What more can I ask for?”

“Happiness?” She shrieks “Love, passion, excitement… to name a few. He’s an asshole and you need to leave him.”

“It’s not that easy Sally.” You snapped “Where would I go? I have no job, no money.”

“Your divorce would sort that out.”

“Sally-”

“You can’t keep living like this.” She interrupted, taking your hand in hers and boring into you with her serious gaze “Waiting to die or for him to leave you.”

“This is my life now.” You said, your tone defeated and your heart heavy “I’ve made my bed.”

Sally decided it was futile to argue any further. You weren’t going to accept that you deserved better and she was tired of trying to convince you of the fact. So you finished off your shopping trip and turned down her invites for drinks that evening at your once favourite watering hole.

No way Joe would let you go.

Despite having little interest in sharing any sort of physical relationship with you he hated the idea of you having a social life outside of him. So going out for drinks with your girlfriends was not something you were able to attend anymore. You were limited to shopping trips and coffee. How dull your life had become.

Walking through your front door and placing your sparse shopping bags down on the polished marble floor, you announced your arrival as you toed off your shoes and hung up your coat. Not expecting the arms that wrapped around your middle and or the lips that found your neck.

He did this sometimes. Showed a fleeting interest in you and you took what you could get. For all his faults he wasn’t a selfish lover.

He turned you in his arms and dropped to his knees before he pushed your underwear to one side and placed a teasing lick on your clit. You felt a jolt of pleasure surge through you and the moan that slipped past your lips was all the invitation your husband needed to continue. Credit where credit was due, he knew how to fuck with his tongue and it didn’t take him long to have you cumming. Your legs then gave out and you were in his arms as he threw you down on the couch and pulled out his throbbing erection for the confines of his slacks. His lips returned to your neck as he lowered himself between your open legs and once again pushed your underwear to the side. Your eyes locked for a moment and you thought you saw a flicker of love in his eyes. Something you’d not seen for what felt like an eternity but then he was pushing inside of you and you weren’t able to keep your eyes open then.

Sex with Joe was always good. Whether you wanted to admit it or not your husband could fuck but these sparse sessions only hurt more. You missed the way he used to worship the ground you walked on. How he’d not be able to get enough of you but then again, you were trying to get pregnant back then. This was now him looking for a release and that’s all you were to him now.

A release.

He fucked into you expertly and you were cumming again in no time at all, moaning loudly as he continued his assault on that spongy spot inside of you that had your toes curling. He hooked one of your legs around his waist and the new angle started to stir another orgasm down in your loins. It took half a dozen more thrusts for the two of you to cum together and leaving you a sated mess on your couch.

“What was that for?” You asked between laboured breaths and Joe shrugged before slipping out of you and pulling his slacks back up again.

“I’ve got to go away for work for a few days.” He stated simply “Should be back by Wednesday.”

“Oh.” You replied as you manoeuvred into a sitting position “Short notice.”

“Tell me about it.” He grumbled before grabbing the suitcase situated by the couch that you’d not noticed before “I’ll call you tomorrow.” He said, pecking your lips.

“You’re leaving now?” You asked as you followed him out to the lobby and watched as he slipped on some shoes and grabbed his keys.

“Need to or I’ll miss my flight.”

“Well, safe trip.” You said, receiving one last kiss before he disappeared out of the door and left you standing in the lobby.

You weren’t sure how long passed before you slipped out your phone and dialled the number at the top of your caller list.

“Sally.” You said simply as you let out a shaky breath “Count me in for tonight.”

…

“I’m so happy you’re here.” Squealed Sophia as she pulled you into a tight hug “What changed your mind?”

“Husband’s fucked off on a work trip.” You said as you downed another apple sour shot “So I thought I would spend my evening seeing my girls.” You finished as you woo'ed with your friends.

“It’s been too long.” Said Lacey as she placed a tray of drinks down on the table and handed you your triple gin and tonic.

“That it has.” You agreed as you took a sip of your drink.

…

Frankie hadn’t been in the mood for drinks but Benny was determined. So that’s how he’d found himself sitting in a bar he’d only ever walked past as a teenager. What made the situation worse was that he was designated drive which meant not even the buzz of alcohol was a possible distraction.

His reason for being in such a foul mood was the information he’d learned upon moving back. He’d only been back a few weeks but when at the supermarket the previous afternoon he’d bumped into your school best friend and he’d learned through her that you were married. He wasn’t sure why he was upset about it. You’d dumped him at the first sign of trouble but there had been a small part of him that had held out hope that there was still a chance for you both.

“Come on Fish.” Ben groaned “You need to cheer the fuck up dude.”

“Ben.” His older brother warned but Benny waved him off.

“I don’t know what’s got your knickers all knotted up but we’re out dude. We’re free from all that shit now.”

“I’m fine,” Frankie grumbled, his eyes drifting to a rowdy table across the bar.

He realised quickly that he knew the girls, they’d all been in your year at school and he was fairly sure that you were friends with them. Ho noted Sally, the one who’d told him just yesterday about your marital status and Sophia who’d been attached to your hip once. Movement in the corner of his eye then grabbed his attention and that’s when he saw you with a tray of drinks in hand. You were just as beautiful as the day he’d kissed you goodbye in the airport when he was 19. More so if that was even possible.

“She’s hot.” Ben teased, dragging the older man from his thoughts.

“She’s my ex.” Frankie grumbled, his attention returning to the one beer of the night he was able to drink.

“Shit, really?” Benny exclaimed and Frankie nodded “She’s smoking Fish., Is she single?”

“No.” He replied simply, his tone grabbing Will’s attention “She’d married.”

“Sound a little sour about that Catfish?” Will questioned, “Something still there?”

“She broke my heart twenty years ago.” He growled, “Nothing there Will.”

“Well, you got me convinced.” Benny snorted and Frankie felt his temper growing even shorter.

“Believe what you want.” He snapped as he pushed himself to his feet “I need a piss.”

He stormed off, leaving two amused Miller brothers in his wake. He hated how seeing you had stirred up all those feelings he’d thought he had buried all those years ago. He went to the bathroom, took a breather and left a few minutes later, only to collide with a soft body.

“Shit, I’m sorry I wasn’t looking where I was going.” He said as shook his head and turned to look at the innocent person he’d just barged into.

“Frankie?” You questioned and his eyes grew wide as your name fell from his lips “Shit.” You said as you let out a shocked breath “Wow, how are you? You look… You look good.”

“You too.” He replied and he swore he saw you blush.

“How are you?” You asked again and he shrugged.

“Good as can be expected.” He replied and you nodded.

“I hear you’re married.” He said and your stomach twisted “Congrats.”

“We’ve been married a few years now.” You said, your face dropped “Nothing to congratulate.”

“You happy?” He asked and you were rendered speechless.

You’d never been able to lie to this man and twenty years on that was still that case. So all you could do was shrug and Frankie couldn’t help but frown at that.

“Looks like my party has made some new friends.” You said as your eyes drifted to your table, Frankie’s eyes following yours.

“Those would be my friends.” He sighed as he scraped a hand over his face.

“Guess we should make sure they’re not getting into trouble.”

“Sure.”

“Chica, look at these two dreamboats we met.” Screeched Sally as you made your way over to the table “This is Will and Benny… They’re brothers and -”

“Complete trouble.” Interrupted Frankie as he came to stop beside you.

“Francisco Morales… Fancy seeing you here.” Said Sally as she pulled him into a sideways hug “You know these two.”

“Sadly.” He replied with a smirk and Benny gave him the finger as your friends chuckled.

You all stayed together then. The girls cooed over the boys and you sat there awkwardly with Frankie as you watched. The conversation got more and more personal as more drink was consumed and you were glad you were drunk when you and Frank became the subject matters’.

“So Francisco.” Sally started as she sipped on her cocktail “No wife and kids to speak of?”

“Nope.” He replied, popping the 'p’ before sipping his soda.

“Don’t get him wrong.” Benny started and Frankie instantly cringed “This guy is the pussy king!” He gushed and you felt sick.

Of course, there had been others since you. It wasn’t like you were it for him and he was to remain alone for the rest of his life but to hear it out loud still stung.

“Shared a bunk with him for years and some of the women he managed to sneak back…”

“How’s married life?” Will asked, changing the subject when he noted both yours and Frankie’s uncomfortable demeanours “No kids?”

Your shoulders sank and your face dropped. Sally noticed it straight away and went to speak but you beat her to the punch, the alcohol giving you a false sense of confidence.

“We tried.” You said with a shrug, your posture changing completely “Never happened for us and now he despises me for it.” You finished with a false laugh and the whole table fell silent.

“I’m sorry,” Will said after a few tense moments of silence and you shrugged again.

“It wasn’t meant to be I guess.” You replied with a shrug, noting out of the corner of your eye how Frankie was looking at you with those sad brown eyes. The ones that let you to fall for him in the first place.

Frankie couldn’t believe what he was hearing. It explained your reaction earlier when he’d asked if you were happy. He could see it now. How haunted you were and his heart broke for you. He’s always hoped that you’d end up happy. Sure he’d prayed it would be with him but as the years had gone on he had come to terms with the fact that it wouldn’t be.

A few more drinks were consumed before the night came to an end. Sally left with Will and Sophie with Ben who had left you alone with Frankie and stood on the sidewalk outside the bar in awkward silence.

“How are you getting home?” He asked as you fiddled with your hands.

“Well I have gotten a taxi with Sally but she’s gone home with your friend so… I guess I’ll get a cab on my own.” You chuckled nervously.

“I can give you a ride?” He suggested and you looked up at him with wide eyes “I was designated driver but guess I got ditched too.” She chuckled and that made you smile “I don’t like the idea of you getting a cab home alone. Please… let me give you a ride.”

“Sure.” You said after a few moments of silence and Frankie nodded, motioning for you to follow him as he lead you to his truck.

He opened the passenger door for you and helped you inside before closing it and making his way around to the driver’s side. Jumping in his was fast to start it up and peel away, driving you home with your quiet directions. It felt like it had all those decades ago. Him driving you somewhere quiet so you could steal perfect moments together before he had to get you home. You couldn’t stop yourself from glancing at him every now and then as he drove you in stoic silence.

When he pulled up in front of your large house his eyes grew wide and you smirked at his reaction to your home. You sat there in tense silence for a few moments before you plucked up the courage to speak.

“Do you want to come in?” You asked, eyes hopeful as you looked at him.

“Are you sure?” He asked, smiling at the nervous nod you gave him.

He opened your door for you and followed silently as you led him to the front door, watching as you shakily pushed your key into the lock. Stepping inside he copied you as you toed off your shoes and before he followed you to a large, modern, kitchen that put his to shame.

“Drink?” You asked and he nodded “Just water’s fine.”

“Just water?” You chuckled “I have beer?”

“I shouldn’t.” He replied shyly “Got to drive and all that.”

“Sure… right, of course.” You said, shaking your head and grabbing a glass from the cupboard.

After pouring him the beverage from the fridge, you handed him the glass and went about pouring yourself a glass of wine. The silence that hung over you both then for a short while was suffocating. You’d not thought this far ahead. All you’d thought about was how you didn’t want him to leave just yet, you wanted him to stay just a little longer.

“So how long have you been married?” He asked, finally breaking the silence between you.

“6 years this August.” You replied, your eyes unconsciously drifting to the silver bands on your left hand.

“He a good guy?” He asked and you sighed, feeling your throat tighten.

“He was amazing at first.” You confessed, eyes drifting to the glass in your hands “But when we discovered we couldn’t have kids he got sour.”

“I’m sorry.” He said sadly as his eyes captured yours “You would have been an amazing mum.”

You let out a sad chuckle at that. You’d always liked to think you would be but as time had gone on you’d started to wonder how good a parent Joe would have been.

“I guess the universe thought differently.” You joked, eliciting a sympathetic smile from him “Just wasn’t meant to be I guess.”

“You can’t seriously believe that?” He asked and you sighed.

“Well I’ve not been blessed with children so to be the evidence is pretty conclusive.” You said with a shrug, trying hard to fight the tears that were threatening to spill.

Silence fell over the two of you again for a while as you sipped at your wine and him, his water. It felt oddly normal to have him there with you yet tense that you were standing in the kitchen of the house you share with your husband, with the man you knew you were still in love with.

“You know I always hoped you’d find happiness.” Frankie uttered after a little while “Despite you breaking my heart I always routed for you to have the best life possible.”

“I always wanted that for you too.” You stated and he scoffed at that “Did you not?”

“I killed people for a living for almost half my life.” He replied shortly “What do you think?”

You winced at his reply and he instantly regretted his tone “I had to do a lot of unforgivable things, all in the name of my country.” He confessed after a short pause “I don’t deserve a good life for what I’ve done.”

“You deserve the best life has to offer Frankie.” You said softly “I’ve always regretted ending things with you.” You sobbed “Truth be told you were the one man I could picture spending my life with and I let you go.”

“Why did you?” His question took you by surprise but you didn’t hesitate to answer it. He deserved the truth.

“Because the thought of losing you was too much to bear.” You confessed, “I thought if I broke it off, it would ease the pain of knowing you could die at any point but all it did was break my heart and leave me hollow.” You sobbed, not holding back the tears now “You were the love of my life and I lost you.”

Frankie could help what he did next. Knowing that you’d regretted breaking things off with him, selfishly, was all he’d ever wanted to hear. Grabbing the back of your head he pulled you into a biting kiss that made your toes curl and your core ache.

Before you knew it your underwear was pushed to one side and he was buried to the hilt, thrusting hard and deep as he swallowed your moans. Your nails dug into the muscles on his back, clinging on for dear life as he tore several orgasms out of you before succumbing to his own release and then he collapsed over you as he caught his breath, practically purring as you run your nails through his hair.

“Shit.” He breathed after a short while and you chuckled at his statement “That was…”

“Perfect?” You finished for him as you smiled down at him “We shouldn’t have done that but I’m having a hard time regretting it.” You confessed after a short pause, moaning when he pulled himself out of your heat and tucked himself into his jeans.

“I’m sorry.” He sighed as he scraped a hand over his face and you suddenly panicked at his change of demeanour.

“I should go.”

“No, please… Don’t-”

“I have to.” He interrupted as he grabbed his keys and made his way to the front door, you were hot on his heels “It was nice to see you again.” He said without looking at you and then he was out of the door and you were left there to sob over what had been the best thing to happen to you in years.

~

2 Months Later…

Your hands shook as you held that stick of plastic in your hand. You felt sick. How, after all those years of trying, were you now looking at the second positive pregnancy test you’d taken that afternoon.

How was this happening?

You slowly started to panic the longer you stared at it. It was a disaster and you didn’t even know where to start in terms of how to deal with it. You knew you had to tell your husband and you knew he was going to be excited but you also had to tell Frankie.

There was a chance it was his too.

Grabbing the tests and shoving them in your pocket you made your way to the front door and grabbed your keys and bag. Slipping your shoes on, you made your way to your car and, after taking a steadying breath you got in. Driving to Frankies, you were relieved to see that his truck was on the drive and after parking up behind it, you hopped out of the car and briskly walked to his front door.

It didn’t take him long to answer after you knocked but his shock at seeing you stook there made your stomach twist into painful knots.

“What are you doing here?” He asked and you thought you were going to cry at that alone.

Instead, you let out a steadying breath before you answered him.

“We need to talk.” You said firmly “Can I come in?”

He said nothing, just opened the door wider so that you could enter. You looked back when you heard the door slam behind you and then you made your way to his kitchen, sitting at his table, you waited for him to join you.

“What do you want to talk about?” He asked plainly and you felt your nerves come to a head. God, you could be sick.

“Well uh… I need to talk about that night.”

“Why?” He groaned “It was a mistake. You’re married. We need to move on.”

“Yeah well, I wish it were that simple.” You snapped and his expression changed.

“Why isn’t it?”

“Because I’m pregnant Francisco.” You growled, slamming the two positive tests on the table.

That stopped him dead in his tracks. He started at the two tests, both saying 6 - 7 weeks along. He’s regretted that night since it happened. Not because of what happened but because you had been drunk and he’d taken advantage of that. So now to see that from that night, he was facing the possibility of being a father, he regretted it even more.

“Is it mine or?…”

“Fifty per cent chance.” You confessed “But let’s be realistic. I try for five years to get pregnant with my husband and then I fuck you one time and bam… Baby.”

“What are you going to do?” He asked and you sighed “Are you…”

“Going to keep it?”

He nodded.

“Yes, I am going to keep it.” You scoffed “But I need to tell my husband I am pregnant and there’s only a fifty per cent chance it’s his.”

“Shit.” He breathed and you nodded in agreement.

“I only came here to tell you because you have a right to know.” You stated plainly “I don’t expect anything from you and if turns out to be yours well… You only have to be involved if you want to be.”

Frankie nodded. He was numb and completely at a loss for words. It was his lack of reaction that had you scoffing before you scooped up the tests and grabbed your bag, barely saying goodbye before you were out the door and halfway to your car.

When he realised you were gone, he ran out after you. Only to find he was too late and you were gone. He groaned in frustration at his reaction to your news. He’s just been so shocked by it. Seeing you at his door, that had not been what he’d expected when you’d said you needed to talk to him.

Now you were gone and he was completely lost.

…

At home, you’d just finished up the dishes when you’re husband had called to say he was going to be working late. So you started on dinner for yourself, something that he could reheat when he got home and then sat to watch TV whilst it cooked in the oven. Joe’s iPad lighting up a short while later caught your attention. It was unusual for him to leave it laying around and so you couldn’t help your curiosity. Noticing it was a text, you tapped on the notification and what you saw made you sick.

'Can’t wait for you to breed me later baby’

You read the first message and choked. It was, sure enough, from his secretary. What a fucking cliché.

'Make round with you baby J.’

Popped up another message a short while later.

You’d known deep down he was cheating. It was obvious. The late nights the secrecy. They had all been warning signs but to see it confirmed in writing hurt but that’s not what you were most angry about. No, you were angry that he was not fucking his assistant… but that he was trying to get her pregnant in the process. That made your blood boil. You may have slipped up but this was something completely different and you knew you had to leave.

Your bag was packed less than an hour later. You packed what you could into your car and you drove to the first place you could think of. Sally’s.

~

1 Month Later…

Frankie had been browsing the cereal aisle when he’d bumped into Sally. He’s desperately tried to sneak past but she had the eyes of a hawk and he was soon cornered by the Coco Pops.

“Haven’t seen you since that night out what… three months ago?” She asked and Frankie shrugged.

“About that yeah.” He confirmed, “How are you?”

“Oh, I’m fine.” She replied, “My girl on the other hand is a mess.” She stated and Frankie’s stomach sank “Girls 3 ½ months pregnant and in the middle of getting a divorce.”

“What?” He exclaimed, the last statement taking him by surprise “Why?”

“Fucker is shagging his assistant.” Sally revealed, “What’s worse if they’re trying for a kid together.” She continued “Well they were and then he found out she was pregnant and he’s been begging for her to forgive him.”

“Shit.”

“Turns out though that there’s a chance it’s not his.”

“Really?”

“Yeah.” She said with a nod “Had a weak moment a few months back and well… Kid might be the other guys but apparently he doesn’t want anything to do with it so-”

“I never said that.” Frankie expelled, eyes widening at his sudden confession.

“Wait what?” She practically yelled “She didn’t tell me who the other guy was… It’s you??”

“We uh… The night we met up, I took her home and we got to talking and one thing led to another-”

A hand impacting his face was not what he’d expected to happen to him whilst doing his weekly shop that day yet here he was, rubbing his cheek as your best friend glowered at him.

“She’s in pieces.” She scorned “She’s all alone, pregnant with a baby that could be yours.”

“I’ve been meaning to talk to her its just… Well, I didn’t know what to say.”

“Say that you’ll support her.” She shrieked “You’re a better man than Joe, I know that for a fact so step up and take responsibility! It takes two people to make a baby.”

“Where’s she staying?” He asked, knowing she was right and that he had to make this right.

“Mine.” She stated “I’m going to be out this evening if you wanted to talk to her alone.

He nodded and she sighed "Please don’t hurt my friend Frankie.” She pleaded “She’s suffered enough.”

…

You hadn’t been expecting a knock at the door that night. Sally was out on a double date with Sophia and the Miller brothers. She’d asked if you wanted her to stay but the truth was you just wanted some time alone to grieve. Your life as you knew it was over and you were facing bringing a baby into the world without the love and support of the man you knew was its daddy. Without a shadow of a doubt, you were certain.

You stiffly walked to the front door, not thinking to check who it was before you pulled it open but when you saw it was Frankie standing there your eyes grew to the size of saucers.

“Frank?” You all but whispered, “What are you doing here?”

“I came to talk.” He replied, “If that’s okay?”

You nodded. Opened the door and motioned for him to come in before closing it behind him. You led him to the lounge, muted the TV and motioned for him to sit as you plonked yourself back on the couch.

“How are you?” He asked although he knew that answer already.

“My life’s falling apart.” You scoffed “How do you think?”

“I’m sorry.” He replied, instantly regretting his question “How’s the baby?” He asked after a short pause and you sighed as you rubbed your now slightly swollen belly.

“They’re okay. Had my first scan and they were pleased with its progress so that’s positive.” You replied and he nodded “Why have you come here, Francisco?”

“I want to be a father to this baby.” He stated simply “If it’s mine and you want that.”

“Frankie I-”

“I reacted like a complete idiot when you told me but I was shocked.” He confessed “The last thing I’d been expecting you to tell me was that you were pregnant but I saw Sally today and she literally slapped sense into me and I… Well, baby, I love you and I want us to be a family but if just being a father is all you’re willing to give me then that’s fine.”

“And if we are a family and it turns out that it isn’t yours?”

“Then I will love it anyway.”

That was all you needed to hear. Next thing you knew you were on his lap and kissing him like you needed it to breathe. Finally pulling away to breathe you looked him in the eye and you smiled.

“Take that as a yes then.” He stated before you laughed and kissed him again.

It was definitely a yes.

~

6 Months Later…

“Well, shit that’s a cute kid.” Said Ben as he propped his head on Sally’s shoulder.

“He’s beautiful.” Sally gushed as she looked up at you and Frankie laying on the hospital bed.

“How are you feeling hun?” Ben asked as he came to stand beside you and place a sweet kiss on your brow.

“Exhausted.” You confessed and he chuckled “But I wouldn’t have been able to do it without Fishcakes here.”

“I thought we were past the nicknames.” He grumbled and you all chuckled.

“I just pushed your eight-pound baby out my vagina and now have stitches to prove it.” You scoffed “I can call you what I like.”

“Touchê.” He conceded and you chuckled.

“Did you have a paternity test done?” Ben asked and you both nodded

“I mean it’s obvious who his father is but Joe was adamant that we get it done. He wasn’t a happy bunny when the news was broken.” You stated.

“No, he was not.” Agreed Frankie as he rubbed his still sore jaw.

“You got a name yet?” Sally asked and you both shared a look before nodding.

“Luka.” You said in unison and the others gasped.

“Luka Morales.” Ben said, testing the name on his tongue “It suits you, little buddy.” He said as Sally handed him the baby.

As watched your best friend and Frankie’s coo over your newborn, a sense of peace washed over you. In the months that had followed, you discovered what true happiness felt like. The love and adoration Frank had showered you with had led you to realise that your life with Joe had never been good.

“You okay?” Frankie asked, quiet enough that only you could hear him.

“Yeah.” You replied as you rested your head on your shoulder “Tired but so fucking happy.”

“Me too.” He replied, kissing you sweetly before pulling away to look you in the eyes again “Marry me?” He asked and tears started to form in your tired eyes.

Frank instantly panicked “Or not… It was just an idea but if you don’t-”

“Yes.” You interrupted and he stopped dead in his tracks, eyes wide and you both stared at each other.

“Yes?”

“Yes Francisco Morales… Love of my life and father of my child.” You started, smiling at him sweetly “I will marry you.”

He kissed you deeply, stealing the air from your lungs before he broke it and rested his forehead against yours.

“Great.” He replied and you chuckled.

“Great.”

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