Buddie: Partners in Fire

Chapter 112

Scene : Buck and Eddie’s Living Room

A few weeks later, the golden afternoon sun spilled into Buck and Eddie’s living room, casting a comforting warmth over the room. The soft hum of the air conditioner blended with the sounds of Christopher happily humming to himself as he lay on the floor, crayons scattered around him. His latest masterpiece—a colorful rendition of Buck and Eddie’s wedding day—was coming to life on paper, complete with bright decorations and a very large sun in the corner.

On the couch, Buck sat with a notepad resting on his knee, his pen poised, ready to make the first mark. Eddie sat beside him, his arm casually draped over the back of the couch, watching Buck’s face closely.

Buck (murmuring): “Alright, first thing’s first—guest list.”

He tapped the pen against the notepad before writing.

Buck: “Obviously, Chris is number one. Then Carla.”

Hearing his name, Christopher beamed up at them from the floor, his grin wide as he waved his drawing at them.

Christopher (proudly): “I better be number one! I’m the most important part, right?”

Eddie (laughing): “That’s right, buddy. You’re the star of the show.”

Buck (teasing): “I don’t know if we could even get married without you. What do you think, Eddie? Should we make sure Chris is in charge of everything?”

Christopher giggled, the sound filling the room as he turned back to his drawing, clearly satisfied with his importance in their big day. Buck smiled fondly at him before turning back to the notepad, scribbling “Christopher” at the top of the list, underlining it twice. His pen paused for a moment before he looked over at Eddie, his expression shifting to something more thoughtful.

Buck (curious): “So... who from your side of the family?”

Eddie sighed softly, rubbing the back of his neck as he considered the question. His family had always been a complicated subject, but he already knew the answer.

Eddie (nodding): “Pepa. She’s really the only one from my family I want there. She’s been there for me and for Chris when we needed her. The rest... well, they don’t really understand us.”

Buck nodded, his heart aching for Eddie, knowing the complicated dynamics of his family. He placed his hand gently on Eddie’s, giving it a supportive squeeze. Eddie smiled softly in return, grateful for Buck’s understanding.

Buck (hesitating): “You know... I’ve been thinking about my parents, too.”

Eddie looked at him closely, sensing that this wasn’t an easy topic for Buck either. He waited quietly, giving Buck the space to express himself.

Buck (sighing): “I don’t want them there. I mean, they’ve never supported me—us—and this day... it’s supposed to be about love. I don’t want to deal with their issues on our wedding day. It’s supposed to be happy, about the people who matter.”

Eddie’s heart swelled with understanding. He knew how much Buck’s relationship with his parents had hurt him over the years. Without missing a beat, Eddie leaned over and took Buck’s hand in his, squeezing it gently.

Eddie (softly): “I feel the same way. Let’s make this day about us and the people who really love us. We don’t need anyone there who can’t celebrate us for who we are.”

Buck’s gaze softened as he looked at Eddie, grateful for the unwavering support. Leaning in, he kissed Eddie gently, the tension in his shoulders easing just a little.