#SurreraCountdownFanfic. The start of a new journey, hope you'll like it!
There's this saying that you can meet your soulmate in all but one look. Andy has heard the statement quite a lot throughout her life, despite not being one to believe this. She has never believed in fairytales since her childhood dreams got crushed, and if this made her a hopeless romantic, then so be it. Having a family or anything serious outside of her job was far-fetched. The universe finally had other plans for her though.
3 Months Ago
Vic and Ripley had finally decided to tie the knot and everyone was excited. It was no small feat to get where they were today, and it made everyone's heart swell seeing their love prevail and how happy they were together.
"Andy, you know you're a bridesmaid right?" Vic echoed as they were all in the locker room after shift.
"Vic! We went over this...you know I'm not into all that wedding fiasco and all the dressing up."
Shooting her a death stare, Vic went on to comment, "So this is how you treat a friend, huh? On what is supposed to be my special day Andy! This is what it comes to?"
With all eyes on her and guilt now racking up, Andy had no choice but to give in. "Jeez, no need to get dramatic...I'll do it."
Giggling could be heard from the others as Vic grabbed her bag and headed off smiling. "Guess there's no backing out now," Maya whispered as she ran past Andy. She earned a grimace look which said all the words Andy didn't need to say out loud.
In truth and fact, Andy was beyond elated for Vic. Seeing her happy was a blessing and she wanted her to have a great time. The thing was, weddings were never her thing. She has seen the after-effects of losing/being apart from the one you love; with her dad when her mom died and then best friend Ryan when his parents broke up. She could never make that commitment and going to a ceremony to celebrate what sometimes seemed trivial to her wasn't appealing. This was Vic though, one of her good friends and her love story was truly one to celebrate. Andy would've preferred being out of the limelight but with no choice, she made it her aim to at least look pleasurable to the eyes. Without a doubt, she wouldn't be going to another wedding anytime soon.
Present Day
Things had progressed smoothly, everything was in place and it was almost the day. For the past few days, everyone had seen Vic turn into a typical bride — overflowing with joy, wanting everything to be perfect, and keeping everyone on their toes about not messing up her day. Today she reminded the team about the arrangements and rehearsal dinner later that evening at 5 pm.
Ripley had pulled some strings to get the team off for the weekend. Seeing that they were Vic's closest friends, he knew the pressure they were under. In reality, it was hard to say no to Vic; she could be quite persuasive.
Andy used the off day to first catch up on some much-needed sleep. Having already set appointments starting at midday to get glammed up for the activities of the next day, she only got in 3 hours. Her next move was to get ready and head out. After rallying around for a bit she had less than 30 mins to get going. Grabbing her keys, she sped off with a plan in motion; she would get her manicure and pedicure done, followed by her hair appointment.
Since Vic had all her friends from work and Luke needed people too. He had called his best friend Robert and his sister Jennifer to be there. Robert was elated and accepted his offer to be his best man. With Robert and Luke, they have always had the conversation of who would find his true love. Considering Robert could be a hard shell to crack, it was expected that Luke would succeed first. Robert admitted he didn't even understand how Luke of all people fell for his subordinate but he was just glad to see the best person he knew finally have some happiness.
Taking some time off to visit from Montana since everything was in Seattle proved to be a task for Robert since he was a workaholic. With the flight being a short one, he had booked it for today and was now waiting for Luke to pick him up at the airport. As Luke approached him, he got up. "Look at you! About to be a married man," excitement clear in his voice while he pulled him in for a hug.
"Glad to see you too, Sully. We need to catch up on so much."
Chatting the entire drive to Luke's house they had some good laughs. 30 minutes later the car was being unloaded and Luke got Robert settled in. Taking in the surroundings by walking around a bit, Robert was pleased. Walking in the living area, he said, "This is a good place, Luke!"
"Yes, that was my first thought when I saw it," he replied.
"So what's up with you Sully? No lover? What are you waiting for man?"
"C'mon brother, you know me, I just haven't met the right woman to settle down with. Plus with work, you know it isn't easy. You won the lottery in finding the love of your life at work. I haven't been that fortunate, so here I am."
"Ahh Sully, you still gotta put yourself out there...either way, everything will work out in due time."
If Robert didn't know his best friend, he'd have convinced himself Luke was trying to set him up in some way.
Being back with him to enjoy their friendship was really enjoyable, he had missed having someone to talk to like this. The boys continued having some deep conversations, drank a few beers, and watched a game. Robert got himself a cat nap before the nights' activities.
Getting ready hours later, he found himself getting somewhat tense. Tonight he would be meeting Vic's friends and he was nervous. If he hates anything, it's being in a crowded space; which was unusual as being a firefighter, a captain, he was often in crowds. He prayed things would go smoothly and with Luke assuring him they were the coolest people, he felt a bit of ease. The dinner was at Vic's house, so both made their way over.
Arriving early, only Vic was home. Vic and Robert exchanged greetings and he told her how happy he was that Luke found her. After their conversation ended, Vic and Luke left him in the living area. He looked around admiring her set up and made a note of the faces in the photographs. He eventually found himself getting comfortable on the couch.
The loud noises 10 minutes later gave him the signal that the others were now arriving. As expected from the team at 19, they could be loud more often than not. After all, they were always filled with energy especially when celebrating and there was so much laughter. 'No wonder Luke likes them' Robert thought. Those who arrived all stayed near the entrance chatting so they didn't see that someone else was there, which Robert didn't mind.
Rehearsal dinner was at 5 and with only 30 mins left, Andy rushed through the door to head over to Vic's apartment.
Pulling up and stepping inside realizing everyone was just relaxing gave her a sense of relief. The entire team was there since everyone was a part of the bridal party. As Andy walked in, she saw everyone's eye on her. "Guys, what? Can you stop looking at me like that!"
"Damn Andy, I thought you weren't into all that girly stuff," Maya said, breaking the group's silence.
"I'm not, you know this! Still, it doesn't mean I want to look shabby for Vic's big day."
The increase in voices told Robert someone else had joined the party, and it seemed this person was the favorite. He was tempted to go take a peek. As if Luke read his mind, he saw him coming over to him. "So now is where you get out of your shell Sully, everyone is here."
Hesitantly walking alongside Luke, he heard Vic speaking. "Well Ms. Herrera, I'm proud of you. I think we can agree that you've found quite an exquisite dress. Are you sure that one was always in your closet?"
"Ughh, I'm tired of all of you. Never letting you make me wear a dress again," Andy joked.
"I'm shocked it wasn't bedazzled sequins," Travis added which tipped the iceberg of laughter.
"Quit it! We do not speak of that," Andy rebutted while poking Travis in the side. They all continued chatting completely blinded to the fact that there were 2 other souls in the house.
"See Sully, they aren't bad. You'll mesh with them, if anything they'll pull you out from that little macho man persona you have going on" gesturing to his physique.
"You never quit do you, Luke? Fine, I'll go after I get myself a drink."
Robert had seen the Latina Vic spoke to earlier head off so he took the opportunity to go in after her.
It seems they both needed something to calm their nerves because while walking into the kitchen, Robert saw her pouring from a bottle of wine with what seemed to be no intention of stopping. He had spent the time fully admiring her, she looked more beautiful outside of the pictures he had seen earlier. Her side profile alone showed off just enough for him to know this was one heavenly woman. The way she wore that outfit also grabbed his attention. Deciding to make his presence known, he questioned, "Don't you think that's enough for one glass?"
The unfamiliar bass tone voice had sent an unexpected shiver through Andy's spine. "Umm, after the week I had, I'd say I deserve it. Plus I'm exhausted from today and I need it," she said while turning to see him.
Laying eyes on him, she clearly lost composure. Completely mesmerized by his features, but more so his eyes. On the other hand, her voice caught Robert off guard - it was soothing. A smile had unknowingly formed by her lips and he was in awe, her beauty was out of this world. One could say the heat in the room had heightened and they both got love struck; now understanding the whole concept of love at first sight.
"You're spilling the wine on yourself," Robert said as he was quick in tracing his fingers across Andy's finger while he snatched the wine glass from her hand.
She snapped back to reality and shouted, "Damn it!" when she saw the stain imprint on her skirt. 'Come on Andy, really smooth' she thought as she glanced up to face the stranger in front of her. She left him standing alone and dashed past the others going straight through the door. Heading to her car, she grabbed a dress she had luckily stored as a backup for critical moments and this was definitely one.
Robert realized he barely knew her, he now didn't know if he should be worried she ran off like that, possibly ruining Vic's night. He walked towards the others into the passage to see if at least one of her friends had gotten hold of her. Sadly, Andy had already gone out and everyone was clueless about what was going on.
It didn't take long before they all saw her return with what seemed to be a change of outfit in hand. Turning to see she had drawn attention to herself, her eye caught the stranger who was the root cause.
"Andy, you good?" Maya quickly inquired.
"Oh, yea...just a small mishap. Gonna change, you guys can start without me".
They were all confused, and Andy just ran off without an explanation. 'Well at least I know her name,' Robert thought to himself.
A sense of worry filled the others as this was strange; she was just laughing with them minutes ago. Glimpsing back, Dean was the first one to see a strange face.
"Hey man," Dean called out, switching attention now to Robert.
"Hi, sorry, I'm Robert...here for Ripley. I'm not a fan of large gatherings so I was waiting until everything started before I introduced myself."
'Ohs' and 'nice to meet you' flooded the room. They then each introduced themselves.
"Any idea what that was about?" Ben asked.
"She's okay, she just spilled some wine on her skirt in the kitchen."
Relief filled the faces of the guys, meanwhile, Maya seemed to have been intrigued by the whole scenario which didn't go unnoticed by Robert.
"Guys, I'm going to check on Andy."
Robert wondered if there was some cryptic meaning behind her behavior; they seemed close enough to have one.
Meanwhile, in the bathroom, Andy cursed under her breath as she took off the skirt to quickly get rid of the stain. 'The one time I decided to wear something other than jeans.' Opening cupboards and shutting them coherently, Andy eventually found what she was looking for - bleach and detergent. She lathered out the skirt and then gave it a proper wash ensuring the stain wouldn't be permanent. Hearing a knock on the door, Andy ignored it.
"Andy, it's Maya, let me in."
Hearing the voice, Andy made her way over to the door letting Maya in.
"So you spilled wine on yourself huh? Is there a story there?" Maya questioned while smirking.
Shrugging her shoulders, Andy went back to focusing on the issue at hand, her new skirt that was on the verge of being ruined.
"Oh, so there is? I bet it has to do with the fine gentleman outside," Maya continued.
Andy turned to Maya, rolling her eyes. "I see I hit a nerve...Well, Robert," there was a certain emphasis placed on his name, "he told us that you spilled your drink. Now I know Andy Herrera and you're not a clumsy person. For someone who can also be such a neat freak, a stain on that skirt must be driving you nuts. So what in the world could make you like this? You better give me details."
The only thing Andy heard from that conversation was his name 'Robert' but she still had to maintain composure. "Maya!" Andy whisper shouted "Chill, ok...We were talking and it just happened I didn't even realize. Anyways can you let me focus on other things right now?" She asked while motioning to the skirt in front of her. "Can we actually do this later when I'm not so exhausted?"
A frown formed on Maya's face, but realizing Andy was tired and clearly, out of it, she figured it would be best if she waited.
Back in the living area, the others had made themselves comfortable in the couches available and continued conversation. Luke and Vic were missing for some time so the boys used it as an opportunity to debate about a football game that was coming up. Robert sat listening in and a minute later saw Maya heading in his general direction. Not seeing Andy following, he assumed she was still getting changed.
"Don't worry about her, she's good" Maya mouthed to Robert as she was near him.
Vic came back, lighting up the room with a wide smile. Glancing around she realized Andy was missing. After giving everyone hugs, she pulled Maya aside asking for her. "She's in the bathroom, she had a little accident but she will be out in a sec," Maya answered. Vic gave her a look which led Maya to whisper "We'll go in detail later," a smirk present as the words left her mouth.
"Oh?" was all Vic managed to let out as they walked to join up with the others.
It took Andy a lot of arm work, but the skirt was back to normal and so she was pleased. She hung it up to dry, changed into her dress - a floral dress that was tightly latched to her body, leaving little to none of her curves to the imagination. This was a dress she had gotten for a special occasion and has only worn it once. This wasn't ideal for tonight since she was with the team and she was sure the undue attention and teasing would flood the table. Taking a deep breath, she walked towards the living area.
Ripley had returned just before Andy and joined in on the conversation which he moved to the table.
"I'm back..fire put out. No need to worry," sass evident in her voice. All eyes were now on her especially Robert as she pulled up a chair beside Maya. She was stunning earlier, but now she was breathtaking, which surely left her friends speechless. Across the table, Robert was struggling to keep his eyes off her and hoping the others weren't aware of how much he was staring.
"Herrera, guess we should talk about this new look...after," Vic stated with a smile across her face.
Knowing they'd be teasing Andy for some time if he doesn't step in, Ripley started welcoming everyone and started the night's treat.
The night was filled with laughter and fun. If there was one thing about 19, they sure knew how to have the time of their lives when celebrating. This was one thing Luke had grown accustomed to, the family dinners and the loud chatter. They brought life to any surroundings once together.
Robert tried his best to try not to focus too much on Andy throughout the night which was a challenge. There was no dimming her beauty and that laugh of hers was contagious. Despite his tries to subside how often his eyes were on her, Andy could feel him staring and she confirmed this when their eyes met twice.
With the team probing Robert with questions, Andy was able to relax and just enjoy the company. She was successful in avoiding any deep conversations until Maya decided she wanted to stir things up. "So Andy, when are we getting invited to your wedding?"
A flabbergasted Andy, still quite stunned by that comment could only chuckle. Laughter had already erupted at the table considering everyone knew Andy wasn't for marriage and this was an internal joke. Clearly, Maya was trying to play some game and Andy knew exactly why.
"Yea Andy, I can be your patron of honor" Travis chimed in with way too much excitement.
Robert was the only one clueless about the entire conversation. Was she already with someone? Was she engaged? He's positive he never saw a ring. He decided to tame his curiosity by taking a chance to dig for answers.
"So, you should be getting married too?" Robert inquired.
"Hah, very funny guys! I think we all know by now that's not for me, especially you Maya. It's more likely you'll all get married before me. Staying single but having fun occasionally is my way...I mean we aren't all as blessed as the bride to be; she is helluva lucky!" Cheers had erupted as the team all agreed with Andy spinning the attention back on the soon-to-be bride and groom.
Hearing that, Robert's wheels had already started turning to wonder why Andy was against marriage. He was already drawn to her by some invisible, irresistible force and he'd like to think he could have a future with her.
The chatter continued as toasts were made, champagnes popped, everyone eating and having a grand time. Some teasing began now and again throughout the dinner; the true embodiment of a family.
After dinner, they put on some chill music and just relaxed. Seeing that Andy was alone Robert walked over to her.
"So, Andy?"
She acknowledged him, "Robert...guess that first impression will be lodged into your mind."
"Naturally yes, but it's unique. Either way, that's already forgotten and I'm glad things worked out okay for you. I'm surprised you had another outfit just waiting in your car."
"A girl has always got to be prepared...but...I think luck was definitely on my side tonight."
As Robert took note of the woman who stood before him, he could feel his innate nature betraying him. He's not one to say things out of place or throw himself at someone, but right now as he admired Andy, there was an internal war going on about whether to kiss her right here and now. That would be bad right? Regardless, fate led him here and he knew it! She already had this immense pull on him that he couldn't escape and there was no other explanation.
With Robert thinking silently and Andy off in her own world thinking the same thoughts, there was silence between them. Without giving much thought, Robert was asking her on the dance floor and not taking time to process the words, Andy was already agreeing.
Andy and Robert took the dance floor and to say they were both left surprised is an understatement. This woman left Robert speechless, the way she gracefully moved across the room and her body in sync with him and the music. Captivated by her performance, he was a different man on the dance floor. Their routine had caught the eye of the others and loud applause could be heard across the room. Andy too was super impressed by his moves; she expected him to dance but the way he perfected every move and kept in tune with her, she was in awe. Ending on a high note facing each other, their lips mere inches apart, Andy quickly remembered they had an audience and pulled away smiling at Robert.
They genuinely both did have a great time. Andy was now more exhausted which led to her saying her goodbyes to the others. The guys soon followed suit.
Since Andy had left, Maya and Vic caught up on their earlier conversation. "So what's up with Andy?" Vic probed.
"I think she may actually like Robert. First, she spilled wine on herself, almost ruined her skirt and we know how she is about her clothes. Then there were some glances she probably thought no one saw and did you see that dance?!" Maya responded.
"Wow, she finally might be interested in someone after all this time. Robert is a good guy, but he doesn't live here and from what Luke has told me, he has no intention of moving to Seattle which poses a challenge. I'm not sure it's the best move for her right now."
"Well, she can just have fun...no harm in that. Andy doesn't need to fall in love."
Vic eyed her, "Maya, I think we both know this is Andy...and once she's intrigued, she may do more than just fun."
"Well yeah. I'm assuming this means we give her a little talk?"
"We should. I'll talk to Robert and see how he feels."
Both girls continued their convo and later said their goodbyes.
Robert was still at the apartment since he was staying with Luke, and of course, Luke needed to stay with his bride to be a little longer before he leaves. Passing by the living area Vic saw that Robert was deep in thought so she went over to prod him into admitting how he felt.
"So what do you think of the guys? I mean apart from Andy...Seems like you had fun tonight."
With a knitted brow, Robert looked up confused but proceeded to respond. "I guess they're okay. They seem like good people and they sure know how to have fun."
"Yeah, they are. We're a family and we can be very protective of each other. Just a tip though, Andy is a free spirit because she hasn't found real love and she's protecting herself from getting hurt again. So you better not do anything stupid! I have my eyes on you." Vic remarked while smirking.
Robert was surprised by Vic's statement, he could understand she was her very close friend but she was going along with a hunch. He wasn't even sure what exactly was happening to him in terms of Andy. "Vic, I'm sure you're reading into things here. What would make you think I have eyes on Andy?"
"Oh deny it all you want Robert, I have eyes and ears around the place...plus you don't pull that dance card out to anyone. All I'm saying is don't hurt her, if you're gonna just leave and it won't work then don't start anything." Vic quickly ushered off without giving him a chance to respond.
As he sunk deeper into the couch, he immediately started thinking and Vic did have point; he was going to leave and he had no intentions of moving or doing a long-distance relationship. Realizing things just got somewhat complicated, he had some contemplating to do and get his act together.
Concurrently, Andy had gotten home and her thoughts were occupied. She admitted to herself that she was definitely intrigued by Robert and she had this deep desire to know more about him. He was Ripley's best friend though and he wasn't from Seattle which was even more reason for her to not fall for him. She has always managed to stay clear from relationships for the past 5 years and now when this may not work, she would remain firm in her resolve. She would not fall for Robert.