13 Chapter 13 Bucks pov

Buck wakes up to his phone alarm and knows instantly he is in Eddie's bed. The smell of Eddie surrounds him and as he opens his eyes and he sees the familiar room. The draws, the lighting, the window. It was just as he remembered it.

It was not a dream.

It was all real.

Until Buck rolls to look at Eddie and he is not there. Buck sits up and turns his alarm off. He remembers that he sent pictures to Maddie but forgot to say not to tell Chim. The last thing he and Eddie want today is snickering and rumors, so he sends a quick message to Maddie.

Buck: 'Hey, forgot to say don't tell Chim about the date. I don't know where we stand, and I don't want people butting in and maybe scaring him off.'

Buck contemplates that and sends the same kind of message to Athena and Bobby asking them to keep it to themselves for now.

He sends the messages and gets up. He goes to his bag, grabs some clean clothes, and heads to Eddie's ensuite quickly showering. When he comes out Eddie was sitting on the bed with a tray containing what looks to be breakfast.

"I was going to surprise you." Eddie says smiling.

"Well, sorry Romeo. But my alarm went off, so thought I would get ready and make you breakfast whilst you got ready. But seems like you beat me to it." Buck chuckles and moves closer to the bed.

"That I did. So, eat this and I will get ready, then we can drive in together if you want. Carla will be here shortly." Eddie says standing up and leaving the tray in the bedside draw.

"Yeah, that be great. Oh, and I told Maddie not to say anything to anyone as well as Bobby and Athena." Buck explains.

"Oh, so you are embarrassed by us are you?" Eddie says.

"No! No, nothing like th…" Buck is cut off.

"Buck, it's fine. I get it. I was going to do the same you just beat me to it. We need to be able to figure this all out without people barging in. So, I was thinking while we are at work… You know…" Eddie says, and Buck can tell Eddie is struggling with his words.

"Eddie, it's ok. I understand. While we are at work, we will be professional. I promise I will be the perfect gentleman, but obviously act like our normal selves. Otherwise, Hen will sniff out that we're hiding something." Buck chuckles

"True, she is good at finding stuff out by just subtle things. Right, you eat. I will get changed; Chris is getting ready. So, if you hear the door it's most likely Carla." Eddie says. Buck watches as Eddie walks past and places a quick peck on Buck's cheek.

Buck can sense how red he has gone. He sits on the bed and he can't believe how lucky he has been. He wanted to ask Eddie out as his boyfriend, but he knew it may be too soon for that. He would have to work slow as not to ruin this. Buck looked at the breakfast Eddie made and started to eat it while listening to the shower water running and a faint sound of singing coming from the shower.

'Eddie singing, no!' Buck thinks to himself surprised that he is singing.

He picks a piece of toast and slowly moves to the bathroom door to listen in, and sure enough, he can hear Eddie singing. His deep voice vibrating through the walls and sets a sexy and happy tone.

'You make my heart feel like it's summer

When the rain is pouring down

You make my whole world feel so right when it's wrong

That's how I know you are the one

That's why I know you are the one'

Buck lets a smile out. He knew that he would have to find that song to surprise Eddie one day. Buck quickly moved back and continued to eat his breakfast he feels his phone go and looks at it.

Maddie: 'Of course! I will keep it a secret just remember Christmas day ' and Buck chuckles.

Buck: 'Maybe, I might have an idea where we both can win on that day, I'll talk to you after my shift'

Then he sees another one-off Bobby.

Bobby: 'Me and Athena agreed after you left that we wouldn't say anything. But remember, I need to know where you two stand as there are the forms. Until then it is ok as long as it remains professional at work, talking of which I will see you both shortly.'

Buck: 'We both talked but we haven't spoken about us yet but agreed to keep it secret at work and work professionally. To be honest, I think Eddie wouldn't feel comfortable yet being out to everyone. I think he just wants us to think about us and not worry about anyone else, see you soon cap.'

As Buck puts his phone down and starts to eat again he hears the door open and see's Eddie all dressed looking smart. Buck must control himself not to jump Eddie there and then. Buck looks up at Eddie and sees him smiling.

"What?" Buck says with food still in his mouth.

"You, I know what you're thinking and, no, we don't have time." Eddie chuckles and Buck nearly chokes on the food. He forcefully swallows it down and playfully raises his hands as if to punch him.

"Now who's a pig?"

Buck watches as Eddie shakes his head and sits next to him. Buck passes a piece of toast and they both sit there smiling at each other, then the bedroom door flings open.

"Bucky, you're still here!" Chris says as he wanders over and hugs Buck.

"Of course, superman." Buck says as he hugs Chris back.

"I'm sorry I lied about last night to you. Dad made me promise not to tell you." Chris says as he hugs tighter.

"Superman it's fine I understand why you did it, and it was the best surprise ever. I'm glad you are ok with me dating your dad." Buck says breaking the hug.

He watches as Chris hugs his dad and Eddie places him on his lap

"So, are you and dad boyfriends now, and will move in? Does that mean you can be my second dad?" Chris asks and Buck's heart fills with joy at that prospect, but he knows it's way too soon for any talk like that.

"Christopher, it is too soon be talking like that. Me and Buck haven't decided anything yet, but when we do, you will be the first to know I promise." Eddie says.

"Yeah, Chris you will be first to know. As adults, we have talk things through and make sure everything is ok."

"Ok, as long as you promise."

"I pinkie promise." Buck says holding his pinkie out.

Chris loops his pinkie around Buck's and they both look at Eddie who rolls his eyes and joins his pinkie to them and they shake with their pinkies. Buck jumps at a flash of light and looks at the door. But it was only Carla holding her phone out.

"Oh, that was way too sweet, and I couldn't resist." She says smiling at them and chuckles.

"Carla, I didn't hear you come in." Eddie says.

"Too busy in the family world eh?" She says smirking.

"We were just talking." Buck says.

"Oh right, about what?" Carla says.

"That dad and Buck would tell me first when they become boyfriends." Chris giggles and Eddie looks at Chris.

"Chris, you're not meant to tell anyone!" Eddie says.

"About time you do." Carla laughs.

"Sorry, dad." Chris says with a sad tone and Buck feels bad.

"Look buddy it's fine. Carla would have worked it out anyway with or without you telling her. Don't be sad, just make sure you keep it to yourself from now on ok?" Buck says giving Chris a quick hug but also making sure his hand rubs Eddie's stomach as he hugs Chris.

"Will do." Chris says.

Buck breaks the hug and Chris gets off his dads' knee and walks towards Carla.

"Right I'll get this one to school, and I'll see you later Eddie or will it be both?" She says with a smirk.

"We will see, but same to you it's hush-hush. We don't even know where we stand yet." Eddie says and cups his neck.

"Of course, my lips are sealed." Carla says as she walks off with Chris.

"Well, that could have gone better." Buck chuckles.

"You think?" Eddie laughs.

"Come on, let's head off so we are not late." Buck says.

"Yeah, into the lion's den." Eddie says

"It will be fine; Remember I text Bobby and he will be keeping quiet so is Athena and Maddie hasn't told Chim so it's all good. Remember behave like normal." Buck says and quickly presses a kiss to Eddie's cheek and walks off down the hall smiling at his cheeky action.

As he walks down the hall, he sees Carla and Chris at the table eating breakfast. He smiles and waves and he heads to the front door slipping his trainers on and his jacket. He decided they would go in Bucks jeep as he was out front and blocking Eddie's truck. He stood there spinning his keys around his finger while he waited for Eddie. Eventually, he sees Eddie walking down the hall with the tray and goes into the kitchen. Two minutes later he walks towards Buck and quickly puts his shoes on and jacket then smiles at Buck.

"You ready now?" Buck jokes.

"Just get a move on will you?" Eddie says, and Buck feels Eddie gently push him to the door.

They walk to Bucks jeep and set off. The first bit of the ride was quiet, and Buck starts to panic. Something is wrong. Normally when they drive in together there's laughter and chatter, but not today. He glances over at Eddie who is looking at him, he does not know what to say so he blurts out the most random thing he could think of.

"Thethree traditional colours of most Christmas decorations are red, green, and gold. Red symbolizes the blood of Christ, green symbolized life and rebirth, and gold represents light, royalty, and wealth." Buck says and curses his research binge.

"Where did that come from?" Eddie asks and in the corner of Buck's eye, he sees Eddie smiling.

"It's too quiet and I panicked." Buck says looking forward.

He feels a hand land on his leg and lets a smile out.

"I understand, everything is changing and we both don't know how to cope. How about we just focus on surviving the day and talk later if you want?" Eddie says.

"That'd be good. Let us figure out what we should do next, plus I know you like to be organized." Buck jokes feeling more at ease.

"Yeah, well when you have a kid you have no choice. You too will understand that soon." Eddie says and Buck focuses on the soon bit. Was Eddie hinting at something long term? Was he saying that he would let him be Chris' dad? Buck was unsure but was excited by the thought.

"Yeah, I guess it can be. I'll know one day, hopefully." Buck smiles.

They laugh and joke the rest of the drive and Buck feels so much more at ease. When he looks at Eddie so does Eddie. Buck pulls up just before the station, he needed to do something. He doesn't know if it would cross the line, but he had to do it to survive the day.

"Why'd we stop?" Eddie asks.

"Because, right… I know we haven't made any decisions but before we go in. I was wondering if maybe I could get a kiss?" Buck says and then Eddie looked shellshocked, "I will understand if you don't wan…" Buck is cut off as Eddie pulls him in for a kiss, it lasts a few seconds but to Buck? It felt like forever.

"That answers that. I was hoping I would get to do that again after last night, but that's your lot for the day. We have work, so let's go." Eddie says smiling.

"Y.. yeh lets…" Buck says still in shock from the kiss.

Buck drives around the corner and pulls in a parking spot. They both get out and look at each other and start laughing.

"What you two laughing about? It's never a good sign when you two are laughing." Chim asks.

"Nothing, just wondering who makes a better elf you or Jones." Buck quickly thinks.

"First, that would be Jones, and second, I'm sure you would make a great Rudolph." Chim chuckles and Buck looks at Eddie who he can see is hiding a laugh.

"Don't you laugh Diaz; we all know you definitely would be the grinch." Buck says sticking his tongue out and walks off.

"Wait, no I am not!" Buck hears behind him as he heads to the lockers.

He gets in and starts to get change, he wanted to be quick, so he did not get distracted by Eddie. By the time he had his trousers off Eddie walks in.

"Well now, you're just teasing." Eddie says.

"Oi, professional! This is why I tried to get changed quickly, so we wouldn't get distracted. Just turn round so I can change." Buck says knowing he is going red.

Buck quickly changes and once dressed turns to see Eddie in just his boxers.

"Eddie, what are you doing?" Buck questions.

"I'm getting dressed but can't get to my locker because you're in the way. And you said not to distract you." Eddie says smiling.

"You are the worst! I'll see you upstairs." Buck says walking past him making sure he looked Eddie up and down once more before he left the room shaking his head.

"Buckley, my office, now!" Bobby shouts as he walks towards the stirs.

"OOOOOO!" Hen says as she walks past and snaps her fingers.

"What have I done now?" Buck asks looking at Hen.

"Not sure," Hen says "Hey Diaz! Put some clothes on your fancy woman isn't around." Hen chuckles.

"He still seeing her?" Buck questions knowing full well Hen knows about Eddie liking Buck, but not knowing about Buck and him going on a date. He wanted to play a game with her.

"Yeah, I think he is going to call it off." Hen says.

"Why?" Buck asks.

"He likes someone else." She says.

"Who? He hasn't mentioned anything to me." Buck says.

"Ask him. Got to go anyway. Plus, Bobby wants you in his office remember." Hen says.

"Ok, see you shortly and I'll get it out of you, you know that. Full-on annoying Buck mode will start." Buck chuckles as he walked to Bobby's office.

As he enters the office he sees Bobby standing there and is pulled into a hug.

"Wanted do that, but obviously out of sight so people didn't question. So I see you both came in together. It's all going well I hope?" Bobby asks.

"Yeah, like I said we haven't figured anything out, and we will be professional." Buck says.

"That's fine, and what about the nightmares?" Bobby asks.

"Fine, not had many. I have been focused on Eddie and it has helped. I think. But we will see." Buck says.

"As long as we don't have any more cutting accidents when you are distracted I'm ok with keeping it on the down-low. But once you two decide to make it official I have the paperwork ready." Bobby says.

"I know dad." Buck jokes.

"Well, we will see what Eddie says when I speak to him later." Bobby says.

"Later." Buck questions.

"Yeah, I'll call him in later so people don't question why I have you in and the Eddie straight after. Come on, let's get ready for the day," Bobby says and they leave his office.

They walk up the stairs and Buck looks around and sees Hen sitting with Eddie. He puts a smile on his face and thinks it is time to wind up Hen some more.

"So, Hen, do you think Ana is right for Eddie? Personally, I think dating your kid's teacher is a bit weird." Buck says scrunching his face and notices Eddie looking at him funny.

"Buck, be quiet will you?" Hen says looking pissed.

"Ok." Buck says and turns to walk over to where Chim was stood talking to Bobby.

"Buckaroo, so what happened last night?" Chim asks.

"What you mean?" Buck asks.

"Well. Maddie lit up like a Christmas tree when you texted her last night and would not say what it was. She said it was a surprise." Chim says and Buck can see Bobby trying to keep a straight face

"Oh, yeah. I was planning your Christmas present, then we got on to other things." Buck explains smiling.

"That reminds me," Bobby says "Everyone take a seat! I need to speak to you all." Bobby shouts to everyone and Buck feels something in his stomach turn this can only mean bad things.

"How bad is it?" Buck asks.

"Well, I know I promised people we would have Christmas off. But the department higher-ups have squashed it, so we are all working Christmas day. Now before you all moan it is a part of our jobs and we know this, but on that note, I'm not cooking so we need to pick a choice of takeout." Bobby says.

"Takeout? But it's Christmas day we got to have turkey with all the trimmings." Buck protests.

"Fine, we will have a vote later and we will decide. Either, takeout or turkey." Bobby says as the alarm goes off. Buck heads down to the truck with everyone else and gently bumps Eddie as he passes by and knows he cannot turn round to look but smiles as he enters the cab, and once Eddie gets in he takes his seat next to Buck and Buck feels Eddie's knee bump his and they smile at each other which Buck knew was a normal thing they did so could get away with it, but now it felt so much more personal to him.

The rest of the day goes by quickly. Mainly due to call after call, the Christmas build-up had started. Buck noticed how much busier the shops had become with lines outside and people rushing around with multiple bags, he was glad he did most of his shopping earlier to avoid the chaos that was Christmas. By the time they rolled in before they finished everyone slowly made their way up the stairs while Buck stayed back. He just wanted to relax. The last call had hit him more than he would like to let on and didn't want to worry the team so kept it to himself. He knew Bobby and Eddie would be both mad that he hadn't said anything but he thought he could push through it but the sound of the waves hit him again and the whole call flashed back to him

They had to rescue someone who had got stuck in a car that had gone off the edge of a hill, but the sounds of the waves hitting the cliff bottom reminded Buck of the way the tsunami sounded as crashed around him and Chris which carried them apart. It hit Buck deep and he knew he couldn't break it as the last thing he would want was to be benched for the rest of the shift, so he fought through it. As he sat in the cab he thinks back on Eddie singing earlier. He thought to try and find out what song he was singing and does a quick google search. Buck found it, he grabbed his earphones and decided to listen in for a while, holding back the tears as the lyrics register on his mind. He feels a hand on his leg and looks up and sees Eddie. Buck turns his screen so Eddie cannot see what Buck was playing and stops the music and removes his earphones.

"Hey, it's ok. I'm here." Eddie says as he takes a seat and pulls Buck over, he then panicked thinking someone may see them, and it would make Eddie run.

"We can't Eddie it's too much of a risk." Buck says not wanting to move.

"It's fine. Bobby has taken everyone up, we all noticed how you were, and we know why. So I said I'd sit with you." Eddie says and Buck can feel the tightness of Eddies hug and he falls in more.

"I'm sorry, I thought I was over it." Buck says, knowing he must sound weak

"It's ok no need for sorry. Everyone is fine with it. When you're ready, we will head up to vote and head home. But I have a question I need to ask you."

Buck didn't answer. He sat there thinking; is this it? Is this where Eddie says if he doesn't get his act together Eddie doesn't want him?

"Go on." Buck says hesitantly

"Well, I was wondering if on the 20th, would you do me the honor of going on a proper date? Dress up in suits and everything?" Eddie asks and Buck sees Eddie blush and it was the most adorable thing Buck had seen today.

Buck did not know what to say. This was not what he was expecting. This is something he always thought of, a proper date at a restaurant with the man he loves.

"Yes, yes, of course, I will." Buck says as he looks up and meets Eddie's eyes and can tell he's happy.

Buck thinks fuck it and quickly kisses Eddie on the lips. He pulls back realizing he may have overstepped.

"Why you stop?" Eddie asks with a grin.

"We can't, not here."

"I know, come on let's go."

They head up and everyone looks over to them. Buck can see Hen's sad smile; he paints a smile on and walks forward. As Buck grabs a piece of paper and writes turkey he places it in the hat. He then sits next to Hen and he watches Eddie write. At least he knows two people would vote turkey with Eddie seeing how much Buck wanted turkey.

"You okay?" Hen asks patting his back.

"Yeah, just the last call got to me a bit, but Eddie helped me through it." Buck says.

"Yeah, we would have all stayed but Bobby said only one to avoid crowding you. But if you need to talk, I'm here." She says as she places a hand on his leg and Buck smiles at her.

"So, let's get this done so we can go." Bobby says.

"So, we have one vote for turkey rest is takeout, sorry Buck." Bobby says.

"What?" Buck said in disbelief.

Buck was annoyed at that. So many wanted takeout, but he was more pissed Eddie hadn't backed him. Everyone went down and Buck slowly made his way down. He felt betrayed but it was not like he had asked Eddie to vote turkey. Otherwise, he knew Eddie would have voted turkey instead. As he got to the bottom of the stairs, most people were pretty much done and leaving. He could see Eddie talking to Chim when he felt a hand on his shoulder.

"Sorry about the vote, but you must have known which way it would go." Bobby says.

"Yeah, just annoyed." Buck says as he looks over at Eddie again.

"Why? Didn't he talk to you the cab after that last call?" Bobby asks, and Buck felt on edge. Would he sound mad if he explained to Bobby he felt betrayed?

"It's just… I made it obvious I wanted Turkey and I do not know. I just feel betrayed Eddie didn't vote for turkey that's all am I mad? I mean I didn't ask him to, but I just thought with me voicing my desire for a traditional turkey dinner he would." Buck says and looks at Bobby who is smiling.

"You have it bad don't you? Look, even if he did vote you would not have won, and as you said, you didn't ask Eddie vote for turkey. As you know he would have if you asked. Maybe he didn't think it through, but then I thought you two hadn't decided what you want. But for me? it sounds like you have." Bobby says looking at Buck like a dad.

"I know what I want, and he is over there but at the same time, I know there is a lot for Eddie to get his head round. So, I said we would take it slow. I mean he asked me on a date on the 20th and to be all dressed up in suits. So, I'm guessing he's slowly getting there, but I'm going ask him out Christmas day." Buck says.

"But you are going out on the 20th?" Bobby says

"Ugh, old people. I meant to ask him to be my boyfriend at Christmas." Buck says smiling.

"Oh ok. If that's what you want then go for it, I think you two can make better versions of yourselves together so go for it." Bobby says.

"Go for what?" Chim says.

"Me making sure we get something good to eat on Christmas." Buck chuckles.

"Sorry, you lost. We are having takeout, anyway, I'll see you both tomorrow." Chim says as he walks off.

"Later Chim." Buck shouts and starts towards the lockers as Eddie exits looking at Buck.

"Diaz, you have a minute?" Bobby shouts and Buck smiles as Eddie looks like someone who is about to get shouted at.

"Good luck." Buck chuckles as he passes Eddie.

"Don't forget to wait for me." Eddie says.

"Like I would go without you." Buck says as he enters the lockers.

He knows he has time whilst Eddie talks to Bobby, so he quickly changes and calls Athena. She would help him.

"What's happened?" Athena says.

"Nothing, why?" Buck asks.

"You're calling, just as your shift ends. What else do you think I'm thinking?" She says sounding annoyed.

"No, I'm sorry, just alone. I need to speak to you."

"About what?"

"About your husband not wanting a Christmas dinner on Christmas day as we're working on Christmas day, it's not right that we are not having turkey and all the trimmings on Christmas day."

"Well, I don't blame him. Can't exactly cook a whole dinner in between calls, so what you are thinking? I know you."

"Erm, considering we all have work, and everyone has family at home. I was wondering if we arrange with everyone's partners and when we are on a call you and everyone else could come in to set up a Christmas meal party. As a surprise. That way people get spend some time with their loved ones on the day."

He listens as the line goes quiet which is weird as Athena is never quiet, which then puts Buck on the edge. Had he crossed the line or said something to upset her? He started panicking and started picking at his finger as he waits.

"Boy, just when I think you can't surprise me you go do it. Ok, I'll arrange the rest and start a group chat, when is your next day off?"

"It is on the 9th, working extra to save up."

"Ok, I'm free in the morning. I'll arrange to meet somewhere with everyone else and we will plan ok?"

"Brilliant, can we have code names?"

"I'll talk to you later Buck."

Buck smiles one way or another he was getting his turkey; he heads out and walks to his jeep just as Eddie catches him up.

"So, you had the 'talk,' have you?" Buck chuckles.

"Yup, just like you." Eddie laughs.

"So, what you are planning tonight?" Eddie asks.

"I'm thinking maybe I will go home, spend some time at my place you know, gives us time to think about what we want. Plus, I'll see you at work tomorrow." Buck says.

"Ok, that sounds fair. Just say bye to Chris, you know he is going to think you're moving in." Eddie says.

"I know. Which is why I think me staying away most nights might help. I mean I'll call but less pressure on us from your son." Buck says with a grin, to be honest, if Eddie asked him to move in Buck would gladly do it, he hated his apartment he pays so much for it a month and is rarely there.

"That's fine as long as you promise me that when you have any nightmare, you call me." Eddie says.

"Deal." Buck responds.

They get in the jeep and laugh and joke talking about some of the scenes they saw today avoiding the one that upset Buck, it felt normal but Buck knew it could all be taken away with one silly move from either of them. As they near Eddie's Buck still feels a bit betrayed and he knows he shouldn't, but he needs to ask about the whole vote thing before he drives himself mad over it.

"It might sound silly, and I know it does, but why didn't you vote turkey when you know that's what I wanted?" Buck asks instantly regretting asking and by the look on Eddie's face, he was not pleased with that question.

'Great one already blew the relationship before it started' Buck thinks to himself

"What? Did you want me to vote turkey? Why didn't you say so? I would have." Eddie says and Buck could feel his nerves disappear a bit, Eddie was not mad at him.

"I know, I just thought as we were you know… Getting close you might have just done it. Forget I said anything it just me being silly." Buck says focusing on the road, wanting to forget the whole thing, he felt an idiot for questioning Eddie and his decision.

"Buck, you aren't silly. Maybe I should have thought a bit better, but I knew they were all voting takeout. So, it wouldn't have mattered and to be honest? I was going to surprise you with a turkey dinner while we had takeout." Eddie says smiling.

Buck could not believe what Eddie just said. He was going to surprise him with a turkey dinner.

"What, really?" Buck asks he had to be sure he heard right.

"Yes." Eddie says smiling.

"So, don't look so gloomy, it would have worked out." Eddie says.

Buck smiles and pulls up at Eddie's, he knew explaining to Chris would be hard as Chris wanted them living together and married and Buck was not even sure where he and Eddie stood at the moment. They get out and head in and Chris hugs them both, Buck kneels to talk to Chris.

"Right superman, I'm off home I need sort some things out, but I'll be round again soon ok?" Buck says.

"But, I thought you and dad would live together?" Chris asks looking sad, Buck smiled to himself he knew this was going happen he looks at Chris

"We may do when we get together. But for now, we have not decided. Remember, when we do you're first to know." Buck says, holding his pinkie up to remind Chris they made a promise

"We need time sort things out Chris, there are lots to think about." Eddie adds.

"Ok, but can you call still?" Chris asks.

"Always." Buck says and hugs him.

"Now behave for your dad or Santa won't come." Buck says giving Eddie a smirk.

"You still taking me to see him though, aren't you?" Chris asks.

"Yes, I'll arrange it with your dad, and we will go." Buck explains.

He hugs Chris once more and watches him go to his room.

"Thank you for that." Eddie says.

"No problem, I'll text when I'm home. You be good or Santa won't come to you either." Buck jokes as he heads to the door.

"Wait!" Eddie says.

"What?" Buck says and is met with Eddie kissing him eventually they break the kiss.

"Wow, wasn't expecting that." Buck says, but deep down he wished it would lead to more but he did not want to push, not yet anyway.

"Well, may not get do it for a while, so you know." Eddie says.

"Well, on that note. I'll speak later." Buck says as he leaves.

Once home he texts Eddie and sees he has been put in a Christmas group where they spend the night bouncing ideas off for the surprise meal. Bucks idea for code names gets turned down again but he notices that Athena had changed his to turkey drumstick and he laughed at it and left it at that at least it was a code name even if it was just for him and no one else, They all agreed that on the 9th, they will come to Buck's to make the final plans ready for the big day itself. He heads to bed and messages Eddie and eventually sleeps.

Over the next few days, work flies on quickly. Buck focuses on getting the Christmas group up to speed with his ideas and making sure everyone is still set for Monday. He spends time with Eddie and Chris but does not stay overnight, only on some nights stating to Eddie it is still too early and neither has decided what they want to do. Eventually, Monday comes and all the families pile into Buck's apartment which is unusual for Buck to see his apartment so full. He had brought snacks, drinks, and notepads for everyone so they could all write down the information of what was happening and who was doing it. Buck felt bad as he would be working, so he really had no job but to let them know when they had left. After several hours it was all planned and arranged. Maddie will organize a fake call out to give them time set up and Buck will go with the team so there was no suspicion of what he had planned. Eventually, they all go off and Buck is left with tiding the mess and packing things away his thoughts travel to the next thing he must plan for which is the date with Eddie.

He heads to his cupboard and looks for something to wear. He didn't like to have much in there as he was rarely here and didn't like to take too much time off which meant he didn't have much of a selection when it came to clothes. As he looked through the ones he had he pulled them out and put them back as none of the suits pleased him or felt right. The only one he does like was the one he wore when he went on a date with Abby. And that was a big no, it was cursed because he ended up choking on a piece of goddam bread last time he wore it. So there was no chance he was taking that risk. He knew he had the day off before the date, but also agreed to see Santa that day with Chris. So, he decided he could do both see Santa in the evening and get a suit in the day.

During the next few days at work was manic making the days go by so quickly. But he managed to get Eddie a present and before he knew what day it was, it was already the day he was taking Chris to see Santa. So, he got up early and headed to the shops: suit hunting. He eventually settled on one, it was a navy colored suit with a crosshatch pattern. He also picked a white shirt and a bright blue tie to go with it. He loved it, he only hoped Eddie would be too. He quickly tried it on, and it fit perfectly, he took it off and paid for it and headed home quickly dropping it off and hanging it up before he went to pick Eddie and Chris. On the way to Eddie's Buck started to feel nervous, and he did not know why. He had been out with them both before but now? The potential that this could be a permanent thing where maybe one day Chris will call him dad?

"Don't think like that, it could be taken away." He says out loud.

He focuses on driving and picks up Eddie and Chris. The whole way there Chris is talking about Christmas and what he hopes he will get. Buck and Eddie share a look, both knowing Buck had got whatever Eddie could not. When they arrive, they follow Chris to the line and stay with him until he got to the front. They sit at the same fountain they sat at last year again. The same place Buck thinks to himself that the lady said he and Eddie had an adorable son, he loved that moment. He watches as Chris walks over with the elf.

"Your son is very polite; you both must be proud dads." The lady says and Buck goes to correct her not wanting to scare Eddie.

"Why thank you, we do our best." Eddie says with a smile, Buck is left gobsmacked that was the last thing he expected to come out of Eddie's mouth.

They start to walk off and Buck is still in shock at what Eddie just did. Why would Eddie do that? They had not even confirmed they were together.

"Eddie, what was that?" Buck asks he needs to know what it means for him for them.

"Shit, was that too much? Sorry. I just didn't want to correct her; I was just in the moment, sorry." Eddie says, and Buck feels guilty.

"No, it was ok. Just wasn't expecting you to be so forward." Buck says as they head to the stalls, Buck fancied a hot chocolate, so they made their way there.

As they walked through the stalls looking for the hot chocolate stand, Buck could see people glancing over and smiling seeing Chris in Eddie's arms as it was busy and he didn't want Chris to get hurt. They were walking close to each other so their shoulders bumped, people must think they are a family and Buck loved it. Walking around with the man he loves, a kid he adores, and people looking over at them and smiling. He could get used to this.

Eventually, they make it to the stand, and Buck orders Eddie and Chris normal hot chocolates but Buck sees a gingerbread flavor hot chocolate so he gives it a try. As they take a seat at a table and watch people go by Buck enjoys his drink and then he hears Chris laughing.

"What are you laughing at superman?" Buck questions.

"Look at dad." Chris laughs more and Buck looks over and Eddie has cream on his nose.

"What is it?" Eddie asks.

"Come here." Buck says pulling Eddie closer as he cleans off his nose.

"Why thank you, can't be seen walking around with white stuff on my nose." Eddie whispers and winks at Buck which makes Buck go red.

"Eddie, not in front of Chris." Buck whispers back as he sits back.

"Can we go to the toy stall please?" Chris asks.

"Don't you think you have asked for enough already?" Eddie says.

"Yeah, but it's nice to look at what toys they have, and it is early." Chris says pulling a face.

"Ok superman, we will spend 10 minutes looking then we need to get back." Buck says knowing Eddie won't be happy that they're going to another stall but he knows Eddie can't resist that pout on Chris.

"Ugh, ok. 10 minutes, ok?" Eddie says.

"Yay!" Chris says.

"You can carry him." Eddie says to Buck.

"My pleasure, you can carry the bags." Buck smirks.

"What bags?" Eddie asks.

"The ones we will no doubt end up getting in a min." Buck smiles.

"No more toys." Eddie says again.

Buck shakes his head and they wander through the busy street. Buck does his best to avoid people. One of the many perks of being is tall he can see over everyone to find gaps. They eventually get to the stall and he places Chris down and watches him as he looks at all the toys. Eddie stands next to him and someone bumps Eddie who knocks into Buck and Buck looks at Eddie. He can tell he is about to flip so he grabs Eddie's hand quickly.

"It's ok, I don't mind you got bumped into me. Let it go, there was no harm done." Buck whispers.

"I know it's just people are so damn rude." Eddie says glaring at the man.

"I know, but it is Christmas and we know how bad it can be. Let's just watch Chris and leave ok?" Buck says and sees Eddie's shoulder relax for a bit.

Buck turns to watch Chris. He was staring at an action figure and he can see Eddie was already getting his wallet out. Buck presses his hand on the wallet and gets his own out handing the woman the money and he looks at Eddie who didn't look impressed.

"What?" Buck asks

"Why'd you do that?" Eddie asks.

"I wanted to, ok? There's no harm." Buck replies and he puts his wallet back.

"Yes, I love it! Thanks, Bucky." Chris says as he hugs him and picks him up again.

"It's fine, now to the decoration stall." Buck says and looks at Eddie who just stares.

"We said 10 minutes." Eddie says.

"Yeah, and it's just a little over 6, so I have 4 minutes to get some decorations." Buck turns and smiles at Eddie.

They get to the decoration stall and Buck picks loads of random decorations and pays for them. The man goes on to hand the bags to Buck and Eddie takes them. They start to head out, as they do they see a lady with a reindeer and Buck walks over to them.

"Would you like to pet him?" The lady asks Chris.

"Can I. dad?" Chris asks looking at Eddie.

"Sure, just be gentle." Eddie says.

Buck places Chris on the ground and the lady hands Chris a carrot which he holds to the reindeer who eats out of his hand and Buck smiles as he listens to Chris giggle.

"Well done, here this is to wash your hands." The lady says and Buck watches as she spays some gel on his hands and Chris mixes it in.

"Thank you." Chris says.

"Oh, so polite. You must be proud." The lady says looking between Eddie and Buck.

"Thank you, have a good night." Eddie says.

They walk towards the jeep and Buck stops and looks at Eddie.

"Why didn't you correct her? He is your son I just happen to be dating his dad and I have no influence on Chris." Buck says. He is worried Chris might get the wrong idea with people saying there his dad's not that Chris needs much to think that.

"Well, it's true. Chris is so polite, and most are down to me but a big chunk of who Chris has become is from you, Buck. Come one you must notice he follows your examples. I do not show my feelings and Chris does and he defiantly got it from you. So, whether you like it or not you have helped my son grow, thank you." Eddie says.

"Thank you." Buck says pulling Eddie into a hug.

"It's fine Buck." Eddie says.

They get to the jeep and Buck drops them off at his.

"Till tomorrow. I'll pick you up at 7 pm, be ready." Eddie says.

"I will be, see ya, superman." Buck shouts and drives home.

Once in, he spends a few hours making sure everything is lined and ready for tomorrow. Nothing was going to ruin this date. He made sure that everything was washed and ironed, his overnight bag was packed, and after all that he settled down and fell asleep.

The next day he spends the morning at the gym doing what he could and focusing on the weights, trying to keep his mind from the date that would take place at dinner he got so nervous when he thought about it. He had a quick light meal as he didn't want to be that person who didn't eat at the meal and a quick nap he wakes at 5, he showers, and starts getting ready. Soon enough 7 pm arrives and there is a knock at the door. Buck can feel his nerves getting the best of him as he slowly opens the door and is greeted by Eddies' smiling face.

"Hey." Buck says knowing he is blushing.

"Hey, these are for you." Eddie says and Buck looks down and sees a bouquet of roses and he takes them off Eddie. He can see Eddie is well dressed in his Blue suit with a white shirt and a black tie. Buck signals for Eddie to enter and walks to the kitchen to put the roses in the sink with some water that should last till tomorrow.

"Ready?" Eddie asks.

"Always." Buck smiles and they head out and to Eddie's truck.

"Where are we going?" Buck asks.

"You will see just be patient." Eddie says with a smile.

Buck looks at him and cannot believe how lucky he is to have Eddie and how fit he is looking. But he wants to know where they are going, he hates being surprised. The drive feels like an eternity but eventually, they pulled up at the location. It was Bona Vista, the revolving restaurant and Buck looked at Eddie and smiled.

"How did you know I wanted to come here?" Buck asks.

"Well, when Maddie mentioned where Chim took her I saw your face and I guessed that it was maybe somewhere you would like to go. So here we are." Eddie explains as he gets out, Buck watches as Eddie runs round the truck and opens the door for Buck.

Buck felt so special. Eddie was treating him so nicely, he hoped that the rest of the evening would go without any incident. He heard his phone go off and saw it was the group chat he looked at Eddie and felt bad.

"Look, phones off, and don't worry, I won't ask you to do the same. I know you have Chris, just you and me." Buck says with a smile.

They head in and Eddie says his name on the reception desk, and they were taken up to a window-side seat. Buck sits and Eddie goes round to the other side.

"Any drinks while you look at the menu?" The waiter asks.

"A bottle of red please?" Eddie asks.

"Very good, I recommend this one," the waiter says, and Buck looks as the waiter points.

"Yeah, that's fine." Eddie says.

"Eddie, that bottle was $200. That is way too expensive for you to pay. I hope you know I'm paying half." Buck whispers over.

"Oh, I thought the one who asks the other out pays with your logic?" Eddie smirks.

Buck feels his cheeks go red; the fact Eddie is quoting back his own stupid line.

"It was a stupid comment, I know. But seriously Eddie, we split the bill ok?" Buck says.

"Fine, but only because you look so nice in that suit. You clean up well Evan." Eddie says.

"You don't look too bad yourself Edmundo." Buck says with a smirk.

They laugh and joke as the meal was served. Everything went off without a hitch. Buck makes sure he breaks the bread off into smaller pieces as memories of his last fancy meal hit him, but he pushes them aside and looks at Eddie who has finished his meal and is watching LA's skyline go by. They move around according to the rotating floor. Eventually, they are all done and was ordering dessert. Buck wants to ask where they stand in hopes that Eddie says he does not know yet, so come Christmas day Buck can ask Eddie to be his boyfriend. He knows it's a long shot as that's in five days, but it was worth a go.

"So, what are we? We still dating or… "Buck stops.

"I think, I'm happy with just dating at the moment." Eddie replies, and Buck's hearts stop. He doesn't want that, but this works to his advantage.

"That is fine, we have plenty of time. Anyway, am I still getting turkey dinner off you on Christmas day?" Buck asks changing the subject knowing full well he is either way.

"Maybe, depends if my Abuela has made it in time." Eddie says smiling.

"Edmundo, you did not, ask her to make it? Did you?" Buck questions he loved the thought but not at the expense of Abuela, even though she was making dessert for the Christmas meal at the station. He hopes she doesn't let slip to Eddie about the surprise.

"Well, do you want it to be edible? We both know if I cooked the turkey, it wouldn't." Eddie laughs.

"True, I'll let you off on that one." Buck chuckles.

Their dessert arrives and they finish up eating. They split the bill and head off. Eddie walks Buck to his apartment door and they stop.

"Fancy a coffee?" Buck asks.

"I would, but promised I'd get Chris after this. I'm trying to be with him as much as possible especially, after the Christmas day tantrum." Eddie said.

"He's still sulking that we're both working Christmas?" Buck asks.

"Yeah, he knew tonight was special, but I said I'd come home. So, I best be off." Eddie says.

"Ok, thank you for tonight, it was perfect, you are perfect." Buck says as he grabs Eddie's hand.

"So are you, just remember that." Eddie says, and Buck pulls him closer.

Buck leans in and kisses Eddie just as his phone goes off.

"It's Abuela I best go, goodnight." Eddie says and kisses Buck's cheek.

Buck watches Eddie as he answers the phone and gets in the elevator, he waves to Buck, and Buck waves back at him. He heads back into his apartment; he turns his phone on and heads upstairs to change and comes back down to look at the messages. He sends his apologies as he was busy too, which he got questioned what he was doing. He said he would explain soon. He puts his phone down to make a drink and it rings he knew straight away it be Maddie wanting details, so he picks up after while making his drink.

"Where did he take you?" She says and Buck chuckles.

"Hello to you too, and that would be the restaurant you and Chim went to. He saw how I reacted when you mentioned you went there and got us a table. It was great." Buck says.

"And did anything else happen?" She asks and Buck swears he can see Maddie grinning like the Cheshire Cat.

"No, we're taking it slow. I did, questioned him what we are we, and we are apparently still in the dating phase. But I am going to be asking him to be my boyfriend on Christmas day at work, so we shall see." Buck explains.

"Ok, well it's late and I need to be early tomorrow. Speak soon." Maddie says.

"Will do, bye." Buck says.

Buck hangs up, gets his drink, and heads to bed. He knew Christmas day could be a happy or sad day. He prayed to the universe that he was owed a good one by now. The next few days fly by with work filling in most of his time and LA being the city of idiots around Christmas. It kept everyone busy so busy that when the morning of Christmas day came Buck knew everyone was tired because he too was tired. Buck woke up sending a message to the group to make sure it was all prepared. He got dressed and grabbed the bag of presents to take to Eddie's. He was dropping them off and picking Eddie up so he could see Chris even for a bit. Though Buck knew what was going to happen later. He got to Eddie's in record time perks of working on Christmas, not much traffic, and Chris was at the door with Abuela behind him.

"Bucky!" Chris shouts.

"Merry Christmas Superman and Merry Christmas too Abuela!" Buck says.

"Merry Christmas, come in Eddie, is nearly ready." She says and Buck walks in and goes to the living room. Where he unloads the presents, moving Eddies to one side.

"They all for me?" Chris asks.

"Yeah, but it can wait till later ok?" Buck smiles.

"I will do." Chris says as he grabs Buck for a hug.

"Where's mine then?" Eddie says as he walks in.

"Here, but it's for later. How about we let Chris open one before we go? I'm sure we can be late for 5 minutes." Buck says and hopes that Bobby will not roast them for that.

"Ok." Eddie says as they sit down and Buck watches Abuela walk off to the kitchen.

"There you go, and there you go." Buck says handing a present to Chris and a card to Eddie.

"What's this?" Eddie asks.

"Open it." Buck replies and he can feel his heart pound.

He watches as Eddie opens the card and smiles at the font. Then opens It and puts it down and opens his mouth.

"Oh my God! This is amazing!" Chris shouts which distracts everyone.

"Come on you two, you will be late!" Abuela says walking in.

"Oh yeah, come on Buck let's go. I'll see you tonight." Eddie says and leads the way.

"Yeah, I'll see you later." Buck says but mouth in a few hours with a wink.

They get in Bucks jeep and drive off. There isn't much talk just random chat; Buck feels like he pushed the line with giving Chris those gifts and goes to talk when Eddie's phone goes off and he answers. Buck listens in.

"Yes, he is with Abuela." Eddie says.

"Well, we weren't told anything till this week, so there was no time to arrange you to come over." Eddie sounded annoyed.

"Look, I don't have time to talk. I'm with Buck." Eddie says and Buck watches as Eddie ends the call.

"Guessing they weren't happy?" Buck questions.

"When were they even?" Eddie smiles back.

The rest of the journey is silent, and Buck is thankful for that. When they get to work it was 9 am. Only a few hours until his surprise plan would start. They head in and get changed, the second they sit the alarm goes off and they did not get back till 11:45 am. They all sit and look at the takeout menus and Buck sends the message out. The next thing he knows the alarm goes to everyone's disappointment. They jump in the trucks and drives off and are more annoyed when the location is 30 minutes away. Which Buck knew gives everyone at the firehouse a good hour to be sorted. The trip back was filled with annoyance by the time they got there. Dispatch told them it was an error and to head back. As they get back and walk to the stairs Buck looks up and sees, Athena.

"Someone informed me you were having takeout on Christmas day, we decided that wasn't right." She says and everyone looked at Buck and he smiled.

"I told you, I wanted turkey." Buck chuckled and wandered upstairs.

"We…" Eddie said, and Buck turned at the top of the stairs to see his teammate's faces light up when they saw their families.

"You did all this?" Hen asks.

"Yeah, I messaged Athena. We made a group and got it sorted." Buck replies cupping his hands and smiles.

"Chris!" Eddie shouts and Buck watches as Eddie runs over and hugs Chris and his Abuela. Eddie looks towards Buck and walks over towards Buck and hugs him.

"I love you." Eddie whispers and breaks the hug and smiles at Buck.

Buck could not get anything out after that, he looked at Eddie, and then Bobby appeared.

"You ok?" He asks.

"Yeah, just filled with happiness." Buck replies.

"This… Well, you have outdone yourself." Bobby says pulling him in for a hug.

"Right let's eat before the alarm goes off." Athena shouts.

They all surround the table and eat. Buck looking at Eddie Chris in-between them, smiling the whole time. Once they were done people went off into their own groups and Buck watched as Eddie was playing pinball with Chris. He loved watching them, he then saw Eddie look over and talk to Chris. He thought this would be a perfect time. So, he took the fire truck he got Chris, so he wandered over and as he got close he saw Chris grinning.

"What's going on?" Buck asks.

"Nothing, just excited be here for Christmas." Chris says.

"Yeah, thank you. It means the world." Eddie says.

"It's fine. Christmas is family time, here I got you this." Buck says as he kneels.

"Help me open it," Chris asks, and Buck does gentling ripping the paper with Chris to show the fire truck.

"It's like the one me and your dad drive in." Buck says.

"I love it." Chris replies

"Why don't I take Chris?" Abuela says.

"Yeah thanks, Buck come with me." Eddie says and Buck notices the redness in Eddie's cheeks, maybe they were going talk about what Eddie said earlier.

"Ok." Buck says and follows Eddie and then Eddie suddenly stops.

"Buck?" Eddie says and Buck can feel all eyes on them.

"Eddie let's go somewhere more private." Buck says feeling a bit too exposed.

"No, I need to do this not for me, but for us." Eddie says.

"What are you on about?" Buck questions. He was confused now, and the nerves were getting worse.

"Look up." Eddie says and Buck looks up and sees the mistletoe.

"Buck, the answer to your question earlier is yes." Eddie says and pulls Buck in for a kiss.

Buck can hear the cheers around him, but he doesn't care. He leans in and enjoys being able to kiss Eddie with no worries. And now? He was now his boyfriend which made it all the better. They finally broke the kiss and looked into each other's eyes and smiled. They slowly turned and Buck could see people with phones out smiling. He felt whole and he felt the warm grip of Eddie's hand and then they were joined by Chris to which Buck picked up.

"Sorry, I broke my promise superman." Buck says.

"What promise?" Chris says.

"The one where we would tell you first when we became boyfriends." Buck explains.

"Oh, I knew that's what dad was telling me before you came over." Chris smiles and Buck looks at Eddie. The sweet man who kept his promises and loves Buck.

"Well, now it's all official why don't you both head home? we can cover the slack." Bobby says.

"Are you sure?" Buck asks.

"Yes go, let us face it now. You are official. That means both of you won't stop smooching all day" Hen jokes.

"In that case, let's go home, boys." Eddie says.

"Pay up people!" Maddie shouts.

"They betted on us?" Eddie says.

"Of course, they did." Buck laughs as he watches them all pay Maddie who then walks over and hugs them both.

"Right, let's go." Buck says and they walk down the stairs.

As they walk out, Buck still has a hold of Chris and takes Eddie's hand and smiles at him.

"What?" Eddie says.

"I didn't think I would get someone like you." Buck says.

"Well, you have your happy ending now, Buck so enjoy it." Eddie says.

"Don't you mean Appy ever after?" Buck smirks

"You are a dork." Eddie says.

"But I'm your dork." Buck says as they kiss.

They leave hand in hand with their future in front of them and Buck feels whole and complete he has finally found his place.