AN: Y'all, I never expected to grow so attached to Kate's team and their dynamic with the Pearl Team but ever since I wrote "All Comes Crashing," I've been in love with them. What once started as a one-off way to deal with Kacy angst has brought me so much joy and I hope it has made you smile a bit in the process. I thought I was done after "For Me, It's You," but here we are with another sequel. Without further ado, here's "False Dichotomy". The title is inspired by the new song by Metric. I hope you enjoy!

Chapter 1

The moment she was finally in her car and heading home from the FBI Headquarters, Kate was able to relax. It hadn't been the most difficult week. In fact, their current case relied more on them coordinating with other agencies and comparing notes, but she was ready to relax and spend time with her fiancée. It had been almost a year since she proposed to Lucy and the wedding day was approaching. The long conversations with their parents had been negotiated, invitations had been sent out, RSVPs received, and every detail of the wedding had been planned and set in motion. It was almost time for the big day. Kate knew once the week of the wedding arrived, she and Lucy would have very little time together, so she planned on enjoying the last weeks of their usual routine they had left before all the guests arrived and the hustle and bustle of a wedding commenced. The couple had fallen into a blissful routine. Sometimes, their teams worked cases together, but often, they worked separately and didn't need interagency collaboration. Kate and her task force were currently locked in on tracking down an arms dealer and assisting Interpol and the DIA with the case. It allowed for the team to be assets instead of leads and after successfully placing trackers on several shipments that would arrive in different ports all over the world, the team was given the green light to focus on some other work. That meant her weekend would be free and all she wanted to do was enjoy some time away from work. She giggled when she saw who was calling her and immediately answered it. Julie's voice echoed through the car and her excitement was evident.

"Hey," said Kate.

"You were right! My dress is even better now," exclaimed Julie.

"I told you that adding the bow would be a nice touch. So, does that mean you are happy with it?"

"Gold star," said Julie, which made Kate laugh.

"Gold star, indeed."

"Are you and Aunt Lucy coming over this weekend?"

"I haven't had a chance to talk to your mom about it yet, but maybe on Sunday."

"Will you make us brunch again? I want your special French toast."

"Always trying to put me to work."

"Please," begged Julie. Kate could practically see her pouting face through the phone.

"Fine, but only because I love you."

"I love you too, Aunt Kate. Tell Maya and Zeinab to come too."

"I'll see what I can do. They did mention wanting to hang out with you again soon. I think they want an update on the Max situation."

"Oh, I'm totally over Max. Maya was right. Total superiority complex and a dweeb."

"Julie," laughed Kate.

"What, he is!"

"Pretty sure Maya didn't call him a dweeb."

"No, I added that because it's true."

"Well, I'm sure she would love to hear all about how you came to that conclusion, so I will invite her and Zeinab when I see them tonight."

"Cool! Have fun on your date," she practically sang.

"Thanks, I'll see you soon."

"Love you!"

"I love you too, Julie. Bye," said Kate as she smiled even more and Julie hung up. She pulled into the driveway of her and Lucy's house and let out a sigh of relief. It was good to be home and she couldn't wait to spend time with her fiancée. She walked in, tossed her keys into the bowl by the door, and beamed with happiness when she saw Lucy happily walking over to greet her with a kiss. They wrapped one another in their arms and held each other close.

"How long you been home?" asked Kate as she nuzzled her neck.

"Just a few minutes, I stayed a bit longer to finish up some paperwork so I could be all yours this weekend. Do you get to be all mine?" Kate giggled at her cheeky grin and nodded.

"Yes, date night is a go. Maya and Zeinab are excited too. Work hasn't exactly made our Friday date nights the easiest to schedule but the case is out of our hands now and I'm all yours."

"Good, then how about we go shower and get ready for the night? It would only be practical and punctual of us to shower together of course," suggested Lucy as she pulled her toward their bedroom with a seductive smile.

"And you know I'm all about being practical and punctual," teased Kate with a wink. She followed her fiancée into their bedroom and they made their way into the shower, kissing and caressing as they allowed themselves to get lost in one another. Both were happy to take their time letting the hot water wash over them as they explored one another. Lucy's eyes slid shut and her back arched as Kate's lips lavished kisses on her neck and collarbone. They didn't get to spend much together during the weeks when they were not on the same cases, having to settle for late-night dinners and sleepily cuddling up in bed after, so both were more than happy to finally be back in one another's warm embrace.

After a steamy shower and stealing kisses while they got dressed, they managed to head out for the night and meet up with Maya and Zeinab at the place Lucy chose. They each took turns deciding what to do on their date nights together and Lucy already knew Maya would tease her about her selection the moment they arrived and were in their lane and booths.

"Okay yes, it's just bowling, but it isn't much different from the arcade you love so much and it's a great time," defended Lucy.

"The arcade has different games and go karts…that's what this is really about. You're mad because you lost in go karts," accused Maya as Kate and Zeinab watched in amusement.

"No! And I didn't lose. Kate distracted me, so it doesn't count," reminded Lucy.

"I winked at you as I drove by," reminded Kate.

"Which is distracting! Look, that's in the past either way and Rock N Bowl is awesome. It's bowling and who doesn't love bowling? Simple, fun bowling, nothing more, nothing less, so no trying to analyze what it means about me, Maya."

"Yeah, what could it possibly mean that you gravitate toward something you deem simplistic and basic," said Maya.

"I never said basic," said Lucy.

"I mean besides the fact it shows that you go out of your way to embrace things you know your parents wouldn't approve of, probably as an attempt to put your middle finger in the air even more at your upbringing and the life they tried to force upon you, but that's just an educated guess of course. I'm sure plenty of the Taras spend their Friday nights as socialites hitting up Rock N Bowl." Lucy's jaw dropped and Zeinab cleared her throat to stop from laughing at her girlfriend's observation. Kate pinched the bridge of her nose.

"Maya, we've talked about this. No analyzing friends, analyzing friends is bad," recited Kate. Maya waved her off and scoffed.

"First off, what do you mean by bad? I need you to sit with that for a moment. Second, Lucy isn't a friend. She's family now and as someone who takes such a title very seriously, I'll analyze her all I want."

"Aw, that's so sweet. You think of me as family? Does that mean you no longer consider me a Daddy?" asked Lucy with a mischievous grin.

"Of course I do, you're still the daddiest, and stop doing that. Trying to distract and deflect by using your charm and adorable smile will not work on me. And third…" Started Maya as Kate shook her head in disbelief.

"Of course there's a third," grumbled Kate.

"…are we not going to talk about the fact her parents will be here in a few weeks and none of them have resolved their deeply rooted issues over money and status? How exactly is that going to work at the rehearsal dinner? I personally appreciate conflicts that arise in hopes of settling rifts, but even I'm not looking forward to that," explained Maya. Zeinab sighed dreamily at her girlfriend and wrapped an arm around her.

"Don't you just love how her brain works?" Zeinab asked as she practically melted on the spot.

"No!" exclaimed Kate.

"Liar," said Maya with a wink. Lucy shook her head in amusement.

"I will have you know that things have actually been a bit better. I don't agree with my parents about most things and they certainly still have issues with my career path and the fact I even have one in the first place, but they are excited about the wedding, especially my mother," explained Lucy. Maya smiled slyly.

"Aw yes, Lillian Tara, socialite and matriarch of the Tara Family. She exudes the epitome of poise and class. It will be fun to see if you get your vault-like behavior from her or your father….or maybe both," said Maya.

"I knew you Googled me," said Lucy.

"No need for Google. I Carlos-ed you. He is far more efficient. In what world would I have not Carlos-ed you the moment we found out our boss was willing to drop everything to come help you? I feel like that was clear. Was that not clear?" asked Maya.

"It was always clear with you, Maya. By the way, I don't have vault-like behavior," assured Lucy. Her jaw dropped again when Kate smirked. Zeinab and Maya laughed.

"Hey, I don't have vault-like behavior," insisted Lucy. Kate sighed and kissed her fiancée's cheek before walking over to grab a bowling ball.

"I can't save you from this one, babe. Maya, be nice about it," warned Kate before turning her attention to the pins in front of her. Zeinab shook with mirth as Maya slid over to sit by Lucy and start her rant.

"Oh you are the worst when it comes to vault-like behavior. I surmise it has something to do with your upbringing, your family's need for privacy, and how appearances are of the utmost importance to the rich and powerful. You like it to appear as though you are an open book…"

"I am," assured Lucy.

"…but you never speak of your family. You are very good at saying a lot but saying nothing at all and you are an expert at using your charm, that impeccable smile, and classic deflection techniques when too much attention is on you."

"You think I'm charming, call me a daddy, and like my smile? Trying to tell me something, Maya?" teased Lucy. Maya motioned at her.

"Exhibit A, oh and we still don't really even know why you hate the ocean. Is it a phobia, an aversion, I've seen you near it, I know you've been in it, and yet, no reasonable explanation…vault-like behavior," announced Maya. Lucy huffed.

"Fine, ask me anything," conceded Lucy. Kate spun around in shock and Zeinab's eyes widened.

"What?" Zeinab and Kate exclaimed in unison.

"Ask me anything," repeated Lucy. Maya smiled slyly at her and sat back in her seat.

"Well this is a new approach. I'm intrigued," admitted Maya.

"No approach, no vault-like behavior, you're right. I don't open up often, but we're family so ask away. What do you want to know that Carlos wasn't able to tell you?" Kate sat down on the other side of her fiancée, suddenly very intrigued by the conversation. Maya glanced over at her and Zeinab, who both shrugged.

"Okay, fine, I know your parents have an ungodly amount of money and like to flaunt it in what they would deem subtle ways, but you never do. Why not?" asked Maya.

"Because money complicates things, relationships, lifestyles, the more you spend, the more you owe, someone, something. You're always beholden to it. It consumes you."

"So did they disown you or did you just choose to leave an entire fortune behind?"

"What, didn't have Carlos check out my financial records?"

"No, just your record and family's accumulated wealth. By the way, that was some rebellious phase in college," said Maya. Kate giggled and nodded.

"Yeah, I love it when you tell me stories about the college years," said Kate. Zeinab frowned in confusion.

"Rebellious phase in college?" questioned Zeinab.

"I got arrested for indecent exposure and public intoxication, but it was just a stupid dare to streak around campus. Wow, Carlos found that? Pretty sure that was expunged from my record," said Lucy.

"He's the best…don't tell Ernie I said that," said Maya.

"Oh I totally am telling him. I'm sure you'll hear from him all about it soon enough. But to answer your question, I wasn't disowned and I didn't leave it all behind. I still have my inheritance, but I find no need to flaunt it like my parents. I enjoy the finer, but simpler things in life, like amazing cuisine and good company. I tend to only splurge when I'm on vacation and I haven't had one of those in a long time. It's why I'm looking forward to our honeymoon. I will finally have some much-needed alone time with my gorgeous future wife and no work obligations hanging over our heads," explained Lucy as she laced her fingers with Kate's. Kate sweetly kissed her and gave her a wink.

"I can't wait for that too. There's still a lot to do for the wedding, but once it's over and I finally get to say I do, I'm looking forward to just being with the most amazing woman in the world in Switzerland," assured Kate as Lucy smiled adoringly at her.

"Such a marshmallow," whispered Maya to Zeinab.

"I heard that," said Kate and Maya giggled.

"So Switzerland, I was wondering what a honeymoon would look like for someone who hates the ocean," teased Maya.

"I haven't been to Zermatt in years and I know Kate will love it. There's a beautiful resort and tons of shopping and Swiss chocolate is amazing. Plus, there are a couple of Michelin Star restaurants for us to check out and several that have scored highly on the Gault-Millau guide," explained Lucy.

"You know, you're pretty good at downplaying the whole heiress thing, but you always have one tell. You love fine dining and cuisine and it's clear you've had the best of the best," informed Maya. A sad smile crept onto Lucy's lips.

"It's one of the only things my father and I regularly did together. He loves food and he would take me to the best restaurants in any place we traveled to when I was younger. We didn't do a lot together, but we always did that. I learned how to appreciate the way food can become art, an expression of one's self, because of him," admitted Lucy. Kate kissed the top of her head. They'd spoken a great deal about their families after their engagement and she knew Lucy's father would always be a topic that brought a lot of strong emotions to the surface.

"Well, I'm looking forward to getting Lucy out on the slopes. Since she has assured me she will never catch a wave with me, skiing is the next best thing. I can't wait to see the Matterhorn too. It's going to be amazing," assured Kate as Lucy snuggled into her side. Maya smiled appreciatively at the junior special agent.

"Okay, since you've shared so much, ask me anything," offered Maya. Kate rubbed her hands together with a sly smile.

"A rare Maya Jamali offering of intel, choose wisely, Luce," said Kate as Lucy thought about what to ask.

"Fine, something simple then. I know you like to say it's because you are BAU, but why do you like analyzing people so much, even off the clock? And I want a real answer, not the smartass one you are thinking of giving right now," said Lucy. Maya playfully rolled her eyes and nodded.

"Fine," she conceded. Lucy noticed how Maya went to sit back by Zeinab across from them. She always noticed the way the BAU field agent tended to seek out Zeinab when she felt vulnerable.

"I had a really rough childhood and quite frankly, most of my life was spent with people letting me down. I became obsessed with analyzing human behavior because I wanted to understand it, but also because I wanted to protect myself from it. The more I know about a person, the more I understand how their mind works, the less likely I am to be disappointed by them," she informed.

"Well, now that we're family and all, if you ever want to know more, just ask. No need to analyze me," assured Lucy. Maya scoffed.

"What's the fun in that?" teased Maya and Kate shook her head in amusement.

"Alright, time to get serious. You three ready to lose at bowling?" asked Kate, but she eyed Zeinab carefully when the woman stood up to grab a ball.

"Friendly wager," suggested Zeinab. Maya laughed and Kate groaned as she hung her head in defeat.

"Okay, what am I missing?" asked Lucy.

"My girl only bets when she knows she will win," informed Maya. Before Lucy could question her, Zeinab bowled a ball and smiled smugly when she got a strike. Maya sighed dreamily at her girlfriend.

"Precision is her strength after all," reminded Maya. Zeinab gave her a sweet kiss as she sat back down and Maya winked at her. Kate took her turn next and giggled when her fiancée cheered her on. She never saw herself as someone who would be on a double date with members of her team, especially at Rock N Bowl, but she couldn't help but to feel downright euphoric at being with two of her favorite people and the love of her life.

After bowling, and Zeinab being just as formidable as they realized she would be, the couples headed to Wally's restaurant for dinner. They sat in their usual booth and waved at Wally from his position by the kitchen. Maya perused the menu and pointed at an item.

"Split it with me?" asked Maya. Zeinab kissed her cheek and nodded.

"Always," she assured.

"What are you going to do when you run out of new things to try on the menu?" asked Kate.

"Oh, I already know what my favorites are, but you gotta live a little, boss. I can't believe you get the same thing each time," said Maya.

"I like what I like. It's one of the reasons I'm happy Wally agreed to cater the wedding. That's one less thing we have to worry about. We already know the food will be amazing," said Kate.

"Yeah, that was definitely a negotiation with our parents though. I swear the more I tell my mom this wedding isn't about her, the more she finds a way to make it about her," said Lucy. Kate nodded in agreement.

"I don't know, Luce. My mom might have yours beat in that regard. She's been calling me nonstop about the décor and wanting to pay for both wedding dresses since your parents paid for the venue. I knew wedding planning would be stressful, but I think I rather interrogate suspects than to try to get our parents to negotiate," said Kate.

"Why don't you just pay for it so they don't have as much of a say?" suggested Maya.

"They insisted," Kate and Lucy grumbled in unison.

"Loudly," added Kate.

"I get where your mom is coming from though. My dad knew what he was doing when he assured them my family would cover the arrangements. It was totally a power play and I'm glad I'm marrying into a family that won't stand for that," said Lucy.

"I know, but I do think your parents were just trying to extend an olive branch to you. They haven't been supportive since you moved to the islands and I think they just want to make sure you know they are supportive of our marriage," suggested Kate.

"By flaunting and throwing around large sums of money at every turn," reminded Lucy.

"I never said they were doing it in a healthy manner," added Kate.

"So how do you get along with the parental units?" asked Zeinab.

"Actually, Lucy's mom loves me. Her dad can be all business but you know I have no problem with that approach," said Kate. Maya gasped dramatically.

"You? Okay with an all business approach? Shocker," teased Maya. Kate playfully glared at her.

"What about you, Lucy? How do you get along with Kate's parents?" asked Zeinab. Lucy smiled smugly as Kate rolled her eyes.

"They love me because I get her to actually touch base with them more often," said Lucy. Kate sighed but nodded.

"Yes, I'll admit I'm not the best with keeping in touch," conceded Kate.

"Her mom texts me all the time," added Lucy. Wally walked over to their table with a bright smile.

"Evening, ladies, good to see you haven't forgotten who loves you," teased Wally.

"Sorry we haven't been in a lot lately. Work has been hectic and wedding planning has been even more hectic," said Lucy.

"Well, don't you worry. I have everything arranged for the dinner and it is going to be delicious," he assured.

"The menu looks amazing," agreed Kate. Maya noticed the stress on the man's face.

"Everything okay?" asked Maya. He quickly nodded.

"Yeah, just a slower night than we expected. It's been like this for weeks. That new place at the end of the block is trying to put me out of business. I just know it. The regulars are always loyal, but there are a lot of new people moving to the islands and they like the shiny, new places a bit more. It'll be fine though. It always is. What can I get started for my favorite customers? Let's see, the usual for Kate."

"Thank you," said Kate.

"Short ribs for me," said Lucy.

"Lomi salmon for me," said Zeinab. Wally smiled at Maya.

"And what will it be this time, Maya?" he asked.

"Beef stew and an order of chicken long rice," said Maya.

"You got it. Be right out," said Wally.

After having an amazing dinner, Kate and Zeinab shook their heads in amusement as Lucy and Maya playfully bickered in the parking lot of the restaurant about why Rock N Bowl was better than the arcade Maya wanted to go to on their next double date. Kate sighed happily as she leaned against her car with Zeinab.

"You know, when Lucy first suggested we go on a double date with you two, I thought it would be awkward, but I'm glad we decided to do this on the regular now," admitted Kate.

"Oh that first time was definitely awkward, but you can't blame me and Maya for being a bit protective. We knew you loved her, but also that there had been a lot of hurt involved and we're always going to be protective of you. Maya is right though, you know? Lucy is family now."

"Speaking of family and loving people, anything you want to tell me about you and Maya?"

"Nice transition there," teased Zeinab. Kate scrunched up her nose.

"Yeah, not my best, but I see how you've been watching her all night. I know that look. I've had that look. Plus, you and I are a lot alike." Zeinab sighed and glanced over at Maya in the distance to make sure she was still occupied by her conversation with Lucy.

"It would be well after the wedding, but yes, I'm…I want to take the next step with her. I know it's a big one and I'm not even sure if she'll say yes, but…"

"She'll say yes. I knew you two were in love for a while, well longer than you've even been officially together. Don't doubt your feelings."

"I know, but if you could tell, then you know she can tell. I just want everything to go perfectly. Carlos is going to help me with the ring shopping, but how am I going to keep this from her for several more weeks?" whispered Zeinab. Kate wrapped an arm around her.

"Don't."

"I don't want to do it before the wedding or…"

"No, I mean, don't keep it from her. Don't try to hide it. Just embrace that you're ready and if she asks, tell her the truth. You've just been thinking about your future together and that's been on your mind…make sure she knows you mean that in a good way though. You know how Lucy and I have been able to deflect from Maya's constant analyzing?"

"Repressing your emotions and refusing to deal with them on a regular basis?"

"What? No, Maya Jr., we just remind her we know she is analyzing us and it isn't something we want to talk about yet. Tell her the truth. The more you lie or hide, the more she'll press. Just tell her you're focused in on some things and you'll let her know when the time is right."

"I love her brain, but it makes it next to impossible to surprise her," grumbled Zeinab.

"Yeah, good thing you aren't very big on surprises," teased Kate as she clapped her on the back.

"What are you two whispering about over here?" asked Maya as she approached with Lucy. Zeinab gulped, but Kate smiled with ease.

"The seemingly all-knowing Maya Jamali and the best ways to get you to not analyze everything once all the guests arrive for the wedding," said Kate.

"Oh, well that's easy. Just accept that's not going to happen," assured Maya.

"Exactly," said Kate with a giggle.

"Same time next week?" asked Lucy. Maya nodded, but groaned.

"Yeah, but we'll have to bring the boys. You know they get all grumpy if they feel left out for too long. Carlos has been texting me all night about it," grumbled Maya.

"I'm sure Jane could use a night out as well. Joe won't be back in town until the wedding and she needs to get out a bit before everything gets hectic," agreed Kate.

"Alright, then how about next Friday night we all head to that arcade? It will give me a chance to assure Maya over here that Rock N Bowl is better," suggested Lucy.

"Sure, yeah, I love being able to prove you wrong. I'll mark it down on my calendar," said Maya. She laughed when Lucy playfully nudged her with her hip.

"Sounds like a date. See you on Monday," said Kate as she opened her car door.

"See you Monday, boss," called Maya with a wave as she followed Zeinab to their car. Zeinab glanced back at Kate and Kate gave her a wink. As soon as they were in the car, Lucy turned to Kate.

"Zeinab is going to propose to Maya and she is so excited about it. She's known for weeks," confessed Lucy.

"Yep, I figured," said Kate with a shake of her head in amusement.

"I told her to let Zeinab do it in her own way and she agreed, so at least that's something, right?"

"Yes and let's hope they take their time setting a date because after we tie the knot, I think we could all use a break from wedding planning."

"Are you, Kate Whistler, the ultimate planner, tired of planning? What have you done with my fiancée?"

"Trust me, I'm still right here. I also just want to actually get to our day and have it all go well. There are so many things that can go wrong and so many moving parts. You do realize that most of the members of our wedding party could be called in on a case in an instance, right?" Lucy cupped her cheek and gave her a comforting smile.

"Tennant has already assured me she got another team to cover for us and the same goes with your task force. We've already planned for this and there are a lot of people willing to step up if there's an emergency, okay?" Kate took in a deep breath and relaxed.

"I know you're right. I guess I just…Luce, you mean everything to me and I want our day to be everything you want and more."

"It will be because I get to marry you. That's all I need," assured Lucy before kissing her. Their lips meshed together and Kate leaned in to deepen the kiss. When they pulled away, their heads were swimming and bodies were buzzing with desire.

"Home, ASAP," said Lucy and Kate happily nodded.

"Definitely," agreed Kate, knowing both were on the same page about how they planned on spending the rest of the night.

AN: I wanted to start this one out nice and fluffy with some domestic Kacy and a bit of Maya and Zeinab for good measure. I hope you enjoyed. More soon.