Sirius and Regulus stood outside the fire station, exchanging knowing glances. The late afternoon sun cast a warm glow over the bustling street, and the aroma of grilled food wafted from a nearby food truck. Both men, freshly back from a year on leave as military special operatives, were excited to pay a visit to their old friend and retired team member, Eddie Diaz.
Sirius adjusted the orange vest on his Belgian Malinois, Archive, who stood proudly beside him, red goggles perched on his snout. Archive's ears perked up, alert and eager, as Sirius chuckled at his enthusiastic energy. Regulus, equally proud, had Lucifer, his own Belgian Malinois, in an orange vest as well, though Lucifer sported green goggles that made him look particularly mischievous.
The brothers shared a relaxed demeanor as they approached the entrance, their hands resting casually on the guns holstered at their hips. It was a comforting weight, a reminder of the skills they had honed over the years. But today wasn't about work; it was about reconnecting with old friends.
As they walked inside, the familiar scent of smoke and fire soot filled the air, mingling with the laughter and chatter of the firefighters going about their day. Sirius spotted Eddie standing near the back, chatting with a few members of the team. The moment he laid eyes on him, a grin spread across his face.
"Look!" Sirius said, nudging Regulus with his elbow. "There's Eddie!"
Before they could make their way over, Archive and Lucifer bolted ahead, drawn by the familiar scent of their old friend. They darted behind Eddie, tugging at his pants with playful barks.
Eddie stumbled slightly, caught off guard as he turned around. His expression shifted from surprise to delight as he spotted the dogs, their tails wagging furiously. Archive and Lucifer had always been favorites of his, and they were excited to see him again.
"Hey, boys!" Eddie exclaimed, bending down to scratch both dogs behind their ears. "What are you doing here?"
Sirius and Regulus chuckled as they approached, hands resting on their hips. "Just paying a visit, old friend," Regulus replied, his smile wide.
Buck, a fellow firefighter, watched from a distance, an amused grin spreading across his face. As he caught sight of Archive, his expression shifted to one of determination. He spoke in rapid French, giving commands that instantly transformed Archive from a relaxed pup into a focused working dog. The sudden change caught the attention of the rest of the team, who looked on in surprise.
Sirius couldn't help but laugh, watching his husband take charge of Archive with such ease. "Looks like you've still got it, Buck," he called out, pride swelling in his chest.
Buck turned towards Sirius, a playful smirk on his face. "He's mine now," he declared, the teasing tone causing a few of the team members to exchange puzzled glances. They were used to Buck's playful banter but could never fully predict where it would lead.
Sirius's heart swelled as he watched Buck interact with Archive. He could see the genuine connection between them, the way Buck commanded respect from the dog while showering him with affection. Archive responded with enthusiasm, his eyes sparkling with excitement.
Buck strode over to Sirius, leaning down to plant a kiss on his lips. The simple gesture sent warmth coursing through Sirius's veins. As Buck pulled back, he brushed Sirius's hand against his slightly rounded stomach, a clear indication of the baby growing inside. "I love you, Buck," Sirius said softly, a smile spreading across his face as he rubbed Buck's belly gently.
The team members around them watched in astonishment, their earlier surprise now mixed with admiration. It wasn't often they witnessed such tender moments between their colleagues, especially not in the traditionally tough environment of the firehouse.
"Wow," one of the newer recruits finally spoke up, his voice tinged with awe. "I didn't know you two were… like that."
Sirius and Regulus exchanged amused glances, their expressions a mixture of pride and mischief. "Well, now you know," Regulus replied, crossing his arms as he leaned back against the wall.
Eddie chuckled, shaking his head in disbelief. "You two always did surprise me. But I have to admit, I'm happy for you both."
"Thanks, Eddie," Sirius said, his heart full. "We've been through a lot, but this is the best part."
As they settled into the comfortable chaos of the fire station, Sirius felt a sense of belonging wash over him. The laughter, the camaraderie, and the familiar banter filled the air, bringing back memories of their time together as a team. Archive and Lucifer began to play with each other, their tails wagging, embodying the joy of reunion.
"Alright, let's get some food before it's gone!" Buck declared, his enthusiasm infectious. "I think I saw some burgers grilling outside."
Sirius chuckled as he ruffled Archive's fur. "As long as they have enough for the dogs too, I'm in."
Regulus rolled his eyes playfully. "You always think with your stomach, Sirius. But I can't blame you; those burgers are legendary."
The group made their way toward the exit, laughter echoing behind them. The bonds they had forged over the years—through thick and thin—felt stronger than ever, and the joy of being together again was palpable.
As they stepped outside, the sun began to dip low on the horizon, casting a golden hue over everything. Sirius took a moment to soak it all in, feeling the warmth of the sun on his face and the love of his family surrounding him.
It was moments like these that made everything worth it—the sacrifices, the challenges, the fight. Surrounded by those who understood him, who had stood by him through the chaos, Sirius felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude. He knew that no matter what lay ahead, they would face it together, side by side, with their beloved dogs by their side.