Shooting Stars

TWENTY FIVE

Aria stood there, her eyes fixed on Mark and Lexie as Izzie had orchestrated a day of fun for the interns. She couldn't help but observe their interactions closely, her protective instincts kicking in. As Lexie walked away, Aria couldn't contain her frustration any longer. "How long have you been messing around with my sister?" she muttered, her gaze piercing into Mark's.

Mark seemed taken aback, his usual confidence faltering as he met Aria's intense stare. "Aria, it's not like that," he responded, his voice quiet and almost pleading. He looked at the eldest Grey, hoping she would understand.

Aria shook her head, her protective instincts flaring up even more. "Isn't it? So she's not just another intern or nurse you wanted to have a fling with?" Her words dripped with a mix of anger and concern for her sister, her voice laced with disappointment.

Mark's expression softened, his eyes searching for understanding. "That's not how I see it. I genuinely care about her," he tried to reason, hoping Aria would see his sincerity.

But Aria had reached her limit, tired of hearing about this complicated situation. "Just stay away from her, Mark," she mumbled, her voice filled with a mix of warning and exhaustion. With that, she turned and walked away, leaving Mark to contemplate her words.
~
Aria hurried to catch up to George just as he was about to turn his attention to Izzie and Alex, who were standing beside Webber. "Thank you!" George exclaimed, his voice filled with gratitude. "They just received the symptoms from their final patients. We need to get to the finish line quickly. It's going to be a close race."

As Aria observed Izzie closely, she couldn't shake the feeling that something was off with her. Alex seemed to notice it too, judging by the expression on his face. The three interns sprinted towards the residents and the chief, their determination evident. "Let's go, Grey!" Aria clapped her hands, cheering on her sister with enthusiasm.

Amidst the tension, George announced a surprising three-way tie. However, it was Izzie who called out the final question, and to everyone's delight, Lexie ended up answering it correctly. "Definitely a Grey," Aria proudly exclaimed, earning curious looks from the other residents. She simply shrugged them off, her smile directed at her little sister, who was joyfully celebrating her well-deserved victory.
~
Aria finished her rounds at the hospital, making sure all her patients were taken care of. As she walked down the corridor, she noticed Lexie hurrying towards her, a worried look on her face.

"Hey, Lexie. What's up?" Aria asked, her voice filled with genuine concern.

Lexie took a deep breath before blurting out, "Have I done something wrong? You've been ignoring me for the last three days."

Aria's brows furrowed in confusion as she looked at her little sister. "How long has this thing between you and Mark being going on?" Aria asked before Lexie looked slightly taken back.

"How do you know about us?" She looked at her older sister before Aria scoffed lightly.

"You two aren't exactly subtle with your flirting and all the time you've spent on his service. Why didn't you tell me sooner?" Aria questioned watching her sister expression closely.

Lexie's shoulders slumped slightly, a hint of sadness in her eyes. " I didn't tell you sooner because I didn't know how you would react. Mark is your friend, and I didn't want to upset you or make things awkward between us."

Aria's expression softened, her concern for her sister shining through. She reached out and gently placed a hand on Lexie's shoulder. "Hey, Mark maybe my friend but you're my sister, and your happiness means everything to me."

Lexie's eyes filled with gratitude as she looked at her sister. "I know, Aria. And I appreciate that. I truly believe that Mark is different. He's shown me so much care and support, and I feel really special when I'm with him."

Aria nodded, finally understanding her sister's perspective. "Well, if he makes you feel that way, then maybe I should give him a chance. I just want you to be happy, Lexie."

Lexie smiled, a sense of relief washing over her. "Thank you, Aria." The two sister continued to catch up spending some quality time together.
~
Aria's eyes widened as she watched the chaotic scene unfold before her. Mark and Derek, their faces flushed with anger, exchanged fierce blows, their fists connecting with loud thuds. The air crackled with tension as onlookers gasped and shouted in disbelief.

With each punch, the room seemed to vibrate with the force of their rage. The sound of grunts and heavy breathing filled the space, creating an atmosphere of raw intensity. Aria went to check on Mark while Meredith ran towards her boyfriend.

Aria gently wiped the blood off Mark's face, her touch careful yet firm. She looked at him, a mix of concern and amusement in her eyes. "Well, Mark Sloan, you always know how to surprise me," she said, a playful tone in her voice.

Mark grinned, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "Hey, I thought you'd give me a harder time about Lexie," he teased, trying to lighten the mood.

Aria paused for a moment, studying Mark's face. "You know what, Mark? Seeing Lexie happy is what matters to me. Just remember, if you ever hurt her, Derek won't be the only one you'll have to worry about," she warned, a hint of protectiveness in her voice.

Mark's smile softened, a genuine appreciation in his eyes. "Thanks, Aria. I know I can count on you. We're good?" he asked, seeking reassurance.

Aria nodded, a warm smile spreading across her face. "Of course, we're good. But you owe me one. I want in on your service next week," she playfully demanded.

Mark chuckled, his laughter echoing through the room. "Deal! You'll be the best assistant I've ever had," he agreed, knowing that their friendship would make the experience even more enjoyable.

Looking at Aria, Mark's expression turned sincere. "You're not just a good sister, Aria Grey. You're an incredible friend. I'm lucky to have you," he said, his voice filled with gratitude.

Aria's eyes softened, reflecting the depth of their bond. "I'll always be there for the people I care about," she replied, her voice filled with determination. "Especially Meredith, Lexie, and maybe even Karev now," she added with a mischievous grin, hinting at the evolving dynamics of their friend group.

With a final smile, Aria continued cleaning up Mark's face, their unspoken understanding and support weaving a stronger thread in their friendship.