#Tarlos Fanfiction One-shots

Unyielding Love

The 126 was buzzing with activity as they prepared to host four firefighters from the 128. A plumbing incident—a burst pipe that flooded their station—had rendered the 128 firehouse unusable for at least a week. TK didn't mind the temporary guests. More people meant more resources during calls, and everyone they'd met so far seemed friendly enough. The four newcomers were Jacob, a tall and seemingly charismatic guy; Alyssa, a confident and kind woman; and two others, Mike and Terry, who quickly blended into the 126's camaraderie.

The first few days went smoothly, with everyone adjusting to the new dynamic. But everything changed on a quiet Sunday when TK and Carlos visited the farmer's market together. Carlos had his arm draped over TK's shoulder as they strolled through the stalls, teasing each other about who had picked the better fruits. TK was laughing at Carlos's attempt to justify overpaying for mangoes when Carlos leaned in and kissed his temple. "You're too adorable for your own good," Carlos murmured, grinning.

TK rolled his eyes but smiled, nudging Carlos playfully. "You're just saying that because you're losing this argument."

The moment was light and easy, until TK noticed someone staring at them from a few feet away. It was Jacob, one of the firefighters from the 128. TK waved politely, greeting him. Jacob nodded back but quickly turned and walked away, and TK didn't miss the brief flash of disgust on his face. TK and Carlos exchanged a glance, both puzzled, but ultimately shrugged it off. They didn't know what to make of it, so they didn't let it ruin their day.

When TK returned to the firehouse for his next shift, he quickly realized the farmer's market wasn't an isolated incident. Jacob's gaze lingered on him whenever he was in sight, the same look of disdain from that Sunday now a regular occurrence. Paul, ever observant, noticed and leaned over to whisper to TK during a lull in activity. "What's going on with Jacob? He keeps glaring at you like you kicked his dog."

TK sighed, lowering his voice. "I don't know. I ran into him at the farmer's market with Carlos, and he seemed... weird. I think he might've seen us together."

Paul's eyebrows shot up. "Seriously? That's it?"

TK shrugged. "I think so. I mean, what else could it be?"

Paul shook his head in disbelief. "In this day and age, and we're still dealing with that crap? Unbelievable."

"Yeah, well, I don't have the time or energy for people like that," TK replied, trying to brush it off. "I'll just ignore him."

Paul nodded but looked unconvinced. "Just let me know if he crosses a line."

TK intended to do just that—ignore Jacob and let the week pass without incident. But Jacob made it harder with every shift. The snide remarks started subtly, often disguised as offhand comments. "Didn't think they'd let pretty boys like you in the firehouse," Jacob sneered one day. Another time, he muttered, "Guess standards are dropping these days."

The rest of the 128 repeatedly reprimanded Jacob for his behavior, clearly embarrassed by his actions, but Jacob didn't let up. The 126 overheard enough to be concerned, but TK waved them off. "They'll be gone in a week," he insisted. "It's not worth it."

When TK confided in Carlos about the remarks, Carlos was furious. "He said what? And you're just letting it slide?" Carlos asked, his voice tight with anger.

"I'm not letting it slide," TK replied. "I'm ignoring it because that's the best way to handle guys like him. He's trying to get a reaction out of me, and I'm not giving him the satisfaction."