Here I am again, throwing myself out there in another fandom. This story is a direct follow up to The Beautiful Lie. There is direct reference from it so…you might want to read it first if you haven't. Sorry for the inconvenience but I think it's necessary to kinda merge the two stories. My Addison or the personality I created for her was so big that I finally felt she needed her own story. There will be some Rizzles. This is also AU Grey's Anatomy. Assume some things but just to let you know there is no Izzie, George, Little Grey or annoying other residents…oh yeah, and no Zoila or baby for Derek/Meredith. This is my first Grey's fic so be gently if my version of the cast doesn't fit exactly that's because are my derivations as well. Thanks as always to MSonya for the beta and all the other shit she shoves down my throat.

Addison Montgomery sat in the rented BMW and peered out at the sea of cars in the second floor Seattle Grace parking structure. A long sigh escaped. Many things had changed in the past few weeks and Addison was intent on keeping it that way. It was past time to acknowledge and confront the loneliness that had been dancing just under her skin. One night stands had become useless, resulting in a numbness that completely defeated the purpose.

Her thoughts whirled toward Jane and Maura. It was cliché. They had both overcome so much and were stronger than ever. It filled her with a hope, a four letter word that had damned her so many times before. Addison couldn't shake it. The feeling grew as if something inside her had made her fertile to the concept. Still, this hope warred at times with her own innate practicality, making it fragile at best.

Addison was unlikely to find any resolution in Seattle, but she made the trip nonetheless knowing that she was to be confronted yet again by elements from her past. Her marriage had been a lifetime ago. Nonetheless, just like with Maura, there were parts of her that were still tender. To complicate matters even more, Addison was vulnerable, torn between wanting the happiness Jane and Maura shared and the belief fostered by sheer pragmatism and years of disappointment that she just wasn't capable of it. This was not the best place to be in her current state. Seattle Grace was full of sharks. They would smell the blood. Addison was still unsure why she had agreed to come, but she was determined to make the most of it.

Addison held her head high, deeming herself impervious to the never ending melodrama that surrounded this place. Meddling had always been her forte, but now, she hadn't the slightest inkling to do so. She wanted her feet on more solid ground. Addison was tired of flailing. Her heels clacked against the concrete as she walked, adding to the echo of other footsteps.

Even though it was muffled, a distinctive chime came from her Prada handbag. Addison paused to sift through it. Removing her cell phone, she studied it as she resumed her trek to the elevators. Full lips curled upward. It was a text from Jane

U were supposed to text when you got in last night.

Addison's fingers flew over the keys. It was late. I was sure you'd be wrappd around Maura by then.Went to bed.

Alone? Jane asked a few seconds later.

The doctor smiled at the other staff as they piled into the elevator. Some were even gracious enough to use their words in greeting, which Addison returned. She moved toward the back as her phone sounded a reminder.

Addison bit the inside of her cheek as she stared at the text. She had to be careful with her reply. She was the last thing Jane should be concerned about. The elevator dinged loudly as it traversed floors.

Yes, I can't be ON all the time. You're up early.

A reply came a few seconds later. Working. Haven't been to sleep. Frost is about to shit himself cuz he knows I'm talking to you. He says he'd stll drink bath water.

The doctor laughed out loud. Heads turned in her direction. Addison held up her phone. It seemed to be enough explanation. Their attention waned almost immediately. Where do you find these ppl?

I always attract the strange ones.

The doctor shook her head. Sometimes Jane left herself wide open.We do all flock to you. Must be that magic tongue.

The detective's reply was quick. Rolls eyes. Gutter bunny.

One of the best.Addison added. Listening to the dings, she still glanced up toward the highlighted numbers as the elevator ascended then stopped at the third floor. The doors opened some people exited while others got on. She waved at a couple of nurses.

I wouldn't know. U got to look plenty but not touch. ;)

Ask your girlfriend then. She has plenty of stories from med school.The doctor just couldn't resist.

Asshole.

Uh huh. Fuck you very much. The doctor continued. Two more chimes. This was her stop. Addison didn't look up from her phone as she moved forward, bumping into the people in front of her. "Sorry about that!" She gently pushed her way through.

What r u doing anyway?

Just got to the hospital.Addison answered.

So all you did last night was sleep?

The doctor cringed. She knew it was coming. Just me and a couple of shots of Jameson.

U ok? Because that's just weird. The detective asked.

I'm fine. Y? Knowing she was going to be interrupted if she just hung out in the hallway, Addison headed for the cafeteria. Coffee was in order.

Yeah, sure u r. I'm on to u but will let u go. I'll let Maura know we talked last I saw of her she was elbow deep in some guys chest.

Addison ignored the blatant sarcasm. Refusing to take Jane's bait, she added a little of her own. She's always been good with her hands.

Goodbye Addison!

LOLz

Addison slipped her phone back into her purse.

Addison brought the large plastic cup to her lips and sipped at the coffee inside. She continued to peer at the skyline. The morning fog seemed to dissipate before her very eyes, leaving a breathtaking view of Seattle in its wake. The clean lines of numerous buildings loomed over the water. It was made even more poignant by her vantage point on the roof.

"I always wanted to know if you were a screamer."

Addison whipped her head around in surprise, nearly losing her coffee in the process.

Callie Torres grinned. The curvy dark haired Latina moved closer. "Let me push you off the side and see. I deserve a little revenge. You don't call. You don't write. I haven't heard from you in almost two months."

"Time got away from me, I think. Plus, I've been busy."

"Stirring somebody's pot?"

"I-"

"Don't even go there. It's what you do."

Addison smirked. "It always turns out well in the end. Speaking of which, how's Arizona?"

Callie's eyes narrowed. "Great," she growled.

"After all this time, it's still hard to admit that I was right about you and women?" The doctor chuckled.

"I refuse to admit that you're right about anything…ever."

Addison snorted. "How the fuck does she deal with all that stubbornness?"

Callie's smile completely transformed her face.

"That's disgusting." Addison muttered jokingly. Her stomach fluttered. It was just another reminder of what she did not have but sorely wanted.

"I didn't say anything!"

"You didn't have to it's oozing out of you."

"That's disgusting." Callie admitted.

"That's what I said!"

When Callie stopped laughing, she murmured. "I can't believe Grey of all people convinced you to come here."

Addison shrugged. "She didn't really. I don't even know why I came."

Callie stared.

"What?"

"Something's going on with you. I can tell."

Addison waved away her suspicion. "I'm fine."

Callie glared.

"I am!"

Callie's glare intensified.

"Fuck you!"

The dark haired doctor smirked. "No thank you."

Needing to divert, Addison murmured, "You never wondered about it?"

Callie's eyes widened and she shoved a finger in Addison's face. "Stop it!"

The red headed doctor raised her coffee cup and free hand into the air. "What? I didn't—"

"You're doing that thing."

"What thing?" Addison asked.

"That thing you do when things get too personal…you know, run?" Callie added smugly.

It was Addison's turn to glower. "I was talking about sex!"

"That's your way of running."

A little flustered at getting caught, Addison decided that humor was the best recourse. "I don't need your kind of negativity in my life."

Callie blinked. "Wha?" Then, a chuckle escaped. "Did you slip something in your coffee this morning?"

Addison snorted indelicately, "Don't I have to in order to stay sane in this place? It's like a Shakespearian play."

"True…it is."

"And then there's the mega couple at the center of it all. I just don't get it."

"Mmm, well there's trouble in paradise."

"I heard. Meredith told me."

"Oh really?" A dark brow rose.

Addison rolled her eyes. "Yes, really. She called me while I was in Boston, but that's so not the point."

"Uh huh. Well, they're barely speak-"

Addison held up a hand to interrupt. "I don't want to know. I'm just here to work and catch up with some friends. I don't want to be a part of anybody's drama."

Callie paused. "You're really not okay."

Addison looked away. It was odd. Only the people who knew her best could sense that something was off. Heaviness infused her, evaporating her good humor. "Can we just drop it?"

The quiet stretched between them.

Callie nodded.

Addison took a long pull of now tepid coffee.

"It's nice to see that the roof is still your favorite place." Callie murmured softly.

Addison turned back toward her friend. Her attempt to smile was feeble at best, still, she hoped it was enough to relay gratitude. The few people in her life who really counted had spoiled her with their loyalty, acceptance and understanding. Calliope Torres was among them.

Meredith pressed the heel of her hands against her eyes, willing the fatigue to evaporate. She was starting to learn that tequila and insomnia were not a good mix. She peered blearily at the board. "Thank goodness." She was on Bailey's rotation today. It usually meant charting first which translated to the possibility of sleep.

A ridiculously large coffee cup appeared on the counter in front of her.

"Your usual with three extra shots."

Meredith groaned as she reached for her drink. "You really do love me." The words lacked inflection. "At least somebody does." She added sharpening her tone with sarcasm and blatant irritation.

She could almost hear Christiana rolling her eyes. "It'll feel like you don't have eyelids after drinking that."

Meredith murmured in thanks. She leaned against the nursing station, taking the first sip.

"Am I staying at your place again tonight?" Yang asked.

"Owen's not getting offended?"

Christina scoffed. "He knows better than that."

"Nice to know he's so well trained."

"Yeah, maybe he can offer some pointers to Mr. Hair."

Meredith grumbled unable and unwilling to hide her grown exasperation. "How did I miss it? I mean, if had seen what an arrogant prick he could be I probably wouldn't have-"

"Yeah you would." Christina interrupted.

Meredith sighed and pushed away from the counter. "You're right." They walked slowly down the hall.

Yang's lips curled upward. "I always am."

"He's not even trying to fix this. I think he honestly believes that it's my fault. I can't begin to tell you how tired I am of being treated like shit." Just the statement alone, left her floundering. She didn't feel like she was in control of anything anymore outside of the OR. Rumors bombarded her at every turn, and then there was Derek…this complete and utter mess with Derek.

"Mer."

"What?" The word came out more prickly than she intended.

"You keep repeating the same questions and making the same statements over and over again. Has it helped?" Thankfully Christina ignored the snippiness.

"Well…no."

"Then try something different."

"Such as?" Meredith asked.

"Like do you really want an arrogant prick in your life who's trying to hold you back?"

Meredith stopped walking. "Interesting question."

"I know." Dark eyes twinkled.

"We'll talk about it over drinks. No tequila though I need a clear head. Maybe we should try something from Skinny Girl."

Yang's nose scrunched. "Is that like Boone's Farm?"

"Noo, it's kinda like light beer but with wine and cocktails."

Her nose stayed scrunched. "So, like diet Boone's Farm?"

"Christ…just bring beer."

"That, I can do."

A pager beeped. They both looked down.

"That was me," Christina announced. "I'll catch up to you later."

Meredith nodded and watched her go. She took a deep sip from her high octane coffee, hoping it would help. She was familiar with physical, mental and emotional exhaustion but to wrestle with all three simultaneously left her hanging on by a thread. Then, there was the anger, the frustration and the hurt. These emotions were commonplace, but Meredith thought for once there was going to be a reprieve.

There was none.

The doctor was sure she'd earned the right to have a little light in her life, but Christina and surgery remained the only constants. Meredith blinked, realizing she had drifted inside her own head. When she became aware of her surroundings once more, a familiar form appeared in her line of sight.

With confidence, Addison Montgomery weaved around the people meandering in the hallway. A bolt of envy shot through her. There was something about this woman. Meredith had always felt almost childlike in her wake. Meredith was no slouch as a surgeon, as a doctor, but Addison-

Refusing to tumble further into habitual hero worship, she yanked herself from her reverie. This wasn't going to be a pleasant conversation. They almost never were. Meredith's defenses crept upward, and she reached out with what protected her the most snark and humor.

Addison barely made eye contact, but it was enough.

"Nice to know I have so much influence over you." Meredith stated with faux sweetness.

"Don't flatter yourself. It's a challenging case. I still don't get why you were the one calling me."

Meredith shrugged. "I was doing a rotation in obstetrics. Everyone in the department is new, so I thought it would be better to hear from someone you're familiar with."

Addison's smile was tight. "I don't know you Grey."

"No, but you know of me. That's enough…for now."

Their gazes met and held.

Addison leaned closer, invading her personal space. "That's enough for always."

In the face of everything that was going on, Meredith could not keep herself contained. "Why is it you don't like me? Not that I care. I'm just curious. I didn't steal Derek. He was already gone, and you didn't want him anyway."

"True, but that's not the point. I don't care if you're Ellis Grey's daughter. I'm not going to fall in line and worship you like everybody else does here." Addison growled.

Meredith was momentarily floored. Then, she laughed but sobered quickly. "You don't know a god damned thing about me." Slowly, she became aware of the many eyes watching them. This little spat would be all over the hospital in fifteen minutes.

"I don't-"

She grabbed Addison by the arm, pulling her into what she hoped was an empty on call room.

The red head sputtered. "What the f—"

"Despite what you believe I don't want my life broadcasted all over the hospital, and I'm sure you don't either."

They glared at each other.

"You're so fucking wrong about me." Meredith leaned against the door, blocking the exit.

"Why would you care, Grey? Is it some kind of ego thing? Everybody has to like you?"

Meredith had no idea why she was pushing the issue, but she did it anyway.

Addison closed her eyes and released a dramatic sigh. "Look, I don't want to fight with you. I don't want to fight with anybody. I don't have the energy for this. Boston was exhausting. I thought we were going to be like passing ships or whatever it was you said on the phone."

"You remembered that?" Meredith asked incredulously.

"Yes, consult, ex husband's an ass and passing ships not necessarily in that order. Now, can you get out of my way?" Addison closed the distance between them. Her face was red in obvious anger.

Meredith continued to hug the door. Her hands clenched into fists as her own aggravation began to rise once more. She wanted something to work out today. Why not this? "Look, can't we just—"

"No." Addison's reply was emphatic. She crossed her arms over her chest.

Feeling the situation spiral further, Meredith grasped onto it tighter. "You don't even know-"

"I'm not kissing your ass Grey!"

Something snapped. Meredith could literally feel it when it happened. The thin strip of tape that was holding her together gave way. "From what I've heard," she hissed. "You've kissed a shit load of them. You and Mark should be in competition as the hospital whore. So why not add mine to the list?!" While this had nothing to do with their present conversation, she was now invested. Meredith hurled the insults into the other doctor's face. She wasn't sure when she moved, but there was barely an inch between them at this point.

Addison's color darkened. "You whiny little-" She sputtered, tripping over her own words.

The air crackled around them, sparking with energy that only increased the volatility.

"Who do you think you-"

Meredith watched full lips move, but the words sounded distorted. She wanted it all to stop for a moment…the helplessness, the anger and everything else that had been living in her head. Meredith lashed out at it all, reaching out to control it in the basest way possible.

"Grey! Are you-"

She crashed her lips into Addison's.

The other doctor gasped and Meredith took it as an invitation. Her tongue stroked the inside of Addison's mouth. The other doctor stiffened, but Meredith was in no way prepared for her own reaction. Heat blazed its way down her chest and curled into her abdomen tying it into hard knots. When it all settled in liquid form between her thighs, Meredith moaned and pulled Addison closer, tangling a hand into her hair.

The red haired doctor seemed to melt into her. Then, the moment was over. Addison wrenched away and wiped the back of her hand across her mouth. Blue eyes were wide, accusing and stormy with other things Meredith couldn't decipher.

"What…the fuck?!"

Meredith looked away, feeling more listless than she had a few minutes before even as arousal snaked its way through her body.

"If that's not evidence that you've lost your damn mind! Don't you ever…." Addison growled. Her chest heaved. "Just get out of the way!"

Still refusing to meet the other doctor's eyes, Meredith stepped away from the door. Addison's presence hovered for a moment, infusing the area with her emotions. Seconds later, she was gone. Meredith blinked and tried to stave off the impending sense of drowning. "What was that?" She whispered.

Feedback is welcome. What do you think? Is it worth it?