Buddie: Partners in Fire

Chapter 19

Scene: Buck and Eddie's Living Room, Morning, A Month Later

The sun streams through the windows, casting a warm glow over the living room where Buck and Eddie sit, sipping their morning coffee. Christopher is still asleep upstairs, giving them a rare moment of quiet. Today is a big day. They’ve decided to start sharing their news with their friends and family, beginning with Bobby and Athena.

Eddie: "Are you ready for this?"

Buck takes a deep breath, his fingers nervously tapping against his coffee mug.

Buck: "I think so. I'm just... I guess I'm a little nervous. Bobby and Athena have been like parents to me. I don’t want to disappoint them."

Eddie reaches over, placing a comforting hand on Buck’s arm.

Eddie: "You won’t. They love you, Buck. They’ll be happy for us."

Buck nods, feeling a bit more reassured by Eddie’s confidence. They finish their coffee in companionable silence, knowing that the first step is always the hardest.

Scene: Bobby and Athena’s House, Later That Morning

Buck and Eddie stand on the porch, exchanging nervous glances as they gather their courage. Buck’s heart races, his palms slightly sweaty. He can feel the weight of the moment pressing down on him, but Eddie’s steady presence beside him is a comforting anchor.

Buck: "Ready?"

Eddie: "Ready."

Buck takes a deep breath and knocks on the door. It opens almost immediately to Bobby’s warm smile.

Bobby: "Hey, you two! Come on in."

They step inside, and Athena joins them in the living room, offering drinks and settling into the comfortable armchairs. There’s a cozy, familiar feel to the room, but Buck’s nerves are still buzzing.

Athena: "So, what brings you guys over this morning?"

Eddie gives Buck an encouraging nod. This is his moment to speak. Buck swallows hard, then takes the plunge.

Buck: "We have some news. Something important we wanted to share with you both."

Bobby and Athena exchange curious looks, their expressions attentive and open. Buck feels a lump form in his throat, but he pushes through it, feeling Eddie’s supportive presence by his side.

Buck: "Eddie and I... well, we’ve realized that we have strong feelings for each other. We’re together now, as a couple."

There’s a moment of silence as Bobby and Athena process the news. Buck holds his breath, his heart pounding. Then, Bobby’s face breaks into a wide grin.

Bobby: "That’s wonderful news! I’m so happy for you guys."

Athena’s eyes shine with warmth and approval as she reaches out to squeeze Buck’s hand.

Athena: "Congratulations, you two. Love is a beautiful thing, and you both deserve all the happiness in the world."

Relief floods through Buck, and he lets out a breath he didn’t realize he was holding. He feels a swell of gratitude and love for Bobby and Athena, their support meaning everything to him. He’s about to thank them when he feels the need to explain further.

Buck: "Thank you. I was a bit nervous about telling you. You’ve both been like parents to me, and I didn’t want to disappoint you. Especially because... well, Eddie’s a guy."