Archive of Our Own ^beta

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“You like her… Don’t you?” She accuses with playful intent with a subtle lift of her eyebrows. It isn’t out of the ordinary or an adulterous act for him to form a likeness toward another woman though she does want a say in the choice. She enjoys the aspect of having multiple lovers. Still, she must admit that his hidden attraction toward someone off-limits can compromise things, making it extremely easy to blur the lines between servicing and helping. 

His hands pause on the keys of his laptop as his eyes lift to hers. “Who?” His eyebrows knit together, confused by her sudden change in demeanor. She does this often, questioning whether his actions match his motives. He doesn’t mind her bluntness or sometimes exaggerated observations. He finds it sexy. Her ability to read people, to read him without a word spoken. However, they’ve never discussed their personal affairs in a professional setting as they work through piles of folders on her desk. He’ll oblige her for now. “Are you referring to Lauren from last night?” He smirks as he mimics her posture, crossing his knee over the other. Lauren is a fun time. She’s also a regular so it was nothing too exciting for him. 

“No,” She says simply, eye contact never wavering. “Though she is a guaranteed good time. You did have fun last night right?” She asks only out of curiosity and not obligation. She indeed had a great time. A romantic, desire-driven night for three. She’s mainly the observer but last night he did most of the watching while she explored the realms of sexual hunger. It isn’t odd for them to switch roles but it is peculiar that he didn’t participate in the act. 

“Yes,” he answers straightforwardly. “I had an amazing time Ms. Koriand’r.” He responds with flirty intent. He is a lucky man that thrives off of greed. He doesn’t need anything but his wants are limitless. His partner. His boss. His lady allows him to explore the forbidden, to flourish in wanting things that are off limits to others. No consenting woman is inaccessible to him though his favorite is the fairytale type. The one that follows her heart, desperately believing in the construct of monogamy though she easily bends to the urges of temptation. It’s sinful but he isn’t the sinner. 

“But…” She lingers, wanting him to read her mind. 

“But?” He repeats in puzzlement, wanting her to express her motives.  

“Oh, come on Dominic. Let’s not start acting like these newbies.” She sighs smartly. “I know you…” She stands, walking toward him with a feminine stride. “I know what you like…” Her voice reeks of seduction as she slowly walks behind his chair and leans down. “And I know your type.” She whispers, lips brushing against his earlobe. Her companion. Her assistant. Her man is smart, savvy, and progressive but he isn’t very clever. He has a specific appetite for things that can ruin his health. A taste for things that could leave a lot of homes a broken mess. 

He turns his head, lips almost brushing hers as his lips spread in a taunting smile. “My type?” She’s grilling him, testing him, wanting to know who has caught his eye this month.

Dominic must admit… He is a hopeless romantic. A lover that fancies the idea of having multiple soulmates. And though no one has captivated his heart quite like Star. That doesn’t stop his constant search. 

“Oh, yes.” She agrees as she squeezes his shoulders, messaging roughly. “She’s sharp, quick-witted in her line of work though she’s a rookie, needing someone’s guidance to take her to the next level. She’s boring, and predictable, needing someone to pull her out of her comfort zone. She’s modish, and elegant though she can be quite salacious. She’s passive, sometimes submissive, unable to realize how complacent she is. She’s content, believing a structured life equates to happiness… But yet finds herself having urges, uncontrollable desires.”  

Dominic is emotionally intelligent. He’s empathic, communicates effectively, and can understand and manage his emotions. But he does not use these tools for good. His thirst to defuse conflict… His craving for a challenge causes him to thrive off of a woman’s most embedded fantasy. Dominic has a hero complex, wanting to be the victor, saving the poor woman from failure. Saving the unsure woman from a life of complacency and boredom.

“You know…” Her nails drag along his shoulder blades as she rounds his chair, hopping onto her desk, causing her skirt to rise. “The gorgeous, ambitious type.” Her eyes pierce his as the words slowly roll off her tongue.

He doesn’t utter a word as he flexes his jaw, eyeing her toned legs as he licks his lips. “That she is…” He says casually as he stands, pressing his hips between her tight skirt. “She is strikingly stunning.” He says honestly with a hint of flirtation as he leans in, kissing her soft lips. 

“Mm, so you do like her?” She mutters against his lips, intrigued with arousal. She expects Dominic to be honest and he will be but… He isn’t piercingly candid like she is. He’s patient and always even-tempered. He never speaks until he’s fully processed and thought an answer through. His words are coded, laced with particular sensibility and sincerity. But instead of his earnestness, she wants candor.

He pauses for a few beats before uttering… “No,” 

“No?” She questions casually though she is surprised by his answer. Yes, Star understands the difference between desirability and likeness… But does this woman not fit his criteria?

“No,” He curtly shakes his head. “Though I must admit she reminds me a lot of you when we first met.” Dominic has known Star for a long time. Their families are connected through business though they’ve never been anything more than acquaintances. That is until... 

“Oh, you mean when we first officially met… at my engagement party.” Yes, Star was once engaged and at the time thought she was happy. But there was always a nagging in the pit of her stomach. She was always pausing, stopping, and wondering if she was making the right decision… 

To be with one man for the rest of her life. Have his children, making her hips spread and her breast hang. Expanding her life with a new house, and a new car while balancing unruly teenagers and sickly parents. Go through the seven-year itch while she’s dealing with finding herself again and he’s going through a midlife crisis. Then trying to overcome infidelity that might result in a bastard child. Trust is broken and being in love is now a passing memory, realizing that divorce is now her only option. 

Now she’s single, retired, and in her fifties. She’s lonely and alone. Her parents have passed, her kids have moved out and her ex has moved on. She believes she’s too old to start over though that’s a silly phrase she tells herself… She’s scared of rejection, scared of falling again. Grasping the fact that she’s either never finding her true love or worse… Finding them when decades of her life were wasted on someone else. 

“Yes,” He answers with a smirk as he reminisces on their first interaction. “I remember you being so uncomfortable like you couldn’t breathe.” He rasps as he loosens the top button of her blouse. “Your shoulders… Sooo tense.” He drags his fingers across her exposed collarbone, leading up to her shoulder. “Your smile with almost a hint of discomfort.” He drags his thumb across her bottom lip slowly, causing her breath to hitch. “You look so bored, unsatisfied in his arms… But in my arms that same night…” He pauses as he smooths his hands up her tone legs. “You became the most powerful and desired woman in that place.” 

Dominic is a man of many lovers. No, this isn’t a game or conquest. No, he does not find delight in conquering women. No, he doesn’t seek to command dominance or seek validation from offering what’s inside his pants. He simply wants to add value. To add romance. To enhance. To fulfill what their men are unaware of and incapable of. Dominic is a mender, fixing what is broken. 

“So, what are you saying…” She glides her hands up his arms, resting her arms on his shoulders as her hands connect behind his head. 

“I’m saying that though you two are alike and she fits my criteria…” He gives her a knowing look, agreeing with her assumptions. “And though she is one of the most gorgeous women I’ve ever seen… She’s messy.” 

“Messy…” She pauses in disbelief. “How so?” She inquires though his thoughts coincide with hers. 

“She…” He pauses, pulling from her embrace as he thinks of the right words. “She is so talented. Her idea for this magazine is brilliant. Her writing is top tier and the public is obsessed with her.” He says matter of factly as he folds his arms. “Yet she has no layers. She’s one-dimensional, so desperate to put on this fake perfectionist act. And she is terrible at it…” He chuckles dryly as he starts to pace with Star watching him silently. “As soon as she walks into a room… Her guilt. Her burdens. Her sadness and anger walk in with her.” Dominic quickly notices how hard Iris tries not to be noticed. She is a broken mess and while he loves repairing things that are broken into tiny fragments…. “And what’s funny is she doesn’t even realize that the man standing beside her is the only reason for her suffering.”

“You mean the cutie? Barry Allen, her boyfriend?” She asks nonchalantly as she eyes her nails though her ears are paying close attention to the distinctness in his voice. 

“Yes, him.” His tone is clipped as his jaw clenches and he swallows deeply. “It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to know that he’s an addict… To what? I don’t know yet. But why would a woman of her caliber want to be with someone like that? It’s not a good look. It’s toxic.” 

“An addiction? Oh, please continue darling.” She questions, acting interested in things she already knows. She also knows that he is jealous, not of her compliment but of Mr. Allen’s proximity to the only woman that is untouchable. Dominic’s words are honest. He does not like Ms. West but he’s forcing it, making his actions disagree with his words as he continues to ramble about the woman he refers to as gorgeous, toxic, talented, and messy. 

“Yes, it could be drugs….” He says randomly as he tries to decipher Barry’s character. “He has these little nervous ticks, always touching his neck, scratching his thigh, and fidgeting with his hands. He’s awkward as hell. He’s extremely territorial and has a bit of an anger problem. I can sense it...” He lets his words linger as he ponders for more incriminating information that will justify his beliefs while he continues to pace Star’s office. “You know what?” He turns, facing Star. “You’re right… She is my type but I am not hers.” He says honestly as he holds his finger up, looking at the time on his watch before proceeding with the conversation. “My chivalry and eclectic personality may tempt Ms. West but the difference between her, you, and every other woman is… She believes that her messy life and toxic love are real.” He laughs boisterously as he busies himself with packing his things. “She chooses to trust an addict with her heart. She has faith in an insecure man…”

“You believe she’s settling.” She continues to sit confidently on her desk as she watches him scatter and rush to put his things away and pack his laptop.

“I most certainly do.” He nods vigorously as he walks to the coat hanger, sliding on his blazer. 

“Hmm, why is that?” Dominic is so predictable. He’s trapped in the weakest web of Iris West and doesn’t even realize it. And while yes, it’s inappropriate and goes against her one rule. It also could be rather fun to see Dominic squirm, getting a taste of his own medicine as he fights against his urges. 

“Simple.” He pauses, fiddling with his cufflinks, wanting to look his best for yet another job interview. “Ms. West does not think she’s the prize. She does not believe she is of value. But that Mr. Allen… The addict, the victim will give her value and meaning. And that he is the prize possession. He is her one true north.” He chuckles with a shake of his head as he pulls out his phone, calling an uber. “Though you and I both know there is no such thing.” 

*Knock, knock* “Sorry to interrupt boss but Iris West is here.” The assistant is soft-spoken with her head peeking through the gap of the door. 

“Great, bring her right in.” She says offhandedly, watching Dominic cast his eyes down as his jaw tightens, forcing himself to not react to the sound of her name. Iris might have a bigger effect on him than Star is aware of. 

“And that’s my cue,” he mumbles. He’s leaving. No, not because of Ms. West’s monthly ongoing meetings with Star. He has a work engagement. Some freelance work and possibly a job interview. He is slightly relieved to be absent from this meeting, ecstatic to be working in his line of profession … But he must admit being in a room with two gorgeous women discussing their passion is quite alluring. 

“Will you be back after you finish?”  She purposefully questions just to prolong his stay as she beckons him over with the motion of two fingers. 

He obliged her, knowing she’ll want to fix something that isn’t out of place. “No, but I’ll make sure to have your bath running and dinner prepared before you get home.” 

“Good,” She wraps her hands around his tie, pushing and pulling to make it tighter as the knot presses against his adam’s apple. “And call Paris and Todd tonight.” She caresses his cheek with one hand as she presses her lips against his. She purposefully lingers as she hears the bolts of the door squeak. 

“Will do.” He kisses her lips once more before turning around. He halts all movement as he sees her. She’s standing awkwardly, biting on her bottom lip as her eyes focus on her heels. She looks expensive and well-rested. “Ms. West.” He nods in her direction with a tight smile as he walks to the door, awkwardly slipping past her without another word. 

Though he hears a faint… “Mr. Lance.” That causes his jaw to clench, forcing his lips not to tug upward as he walks to the elevators. 

“Hm,” Star hums under her breath though she purposely avoids the revealing exchange between her beau and her client as she hops off her desk and opens her file cabinet. 

Iris West is tempted. The subtly. The lingering. Dominic might very well have her client in quite a dilemma. But that dilemma will be an uphill battle. Iris West and she have quite a few things in common. Resilience, dedication, and stubbornness. Star left her fiancé at her engagement party to be with Dominic because she was not complacent, unable to settle for normal. Iris is the same, thriving in the madness of her troubled life. Though she is complacent, unaware of the problems following her and the large load of baggage she carries. She’s also oblivious to the reasoning behind her suffering though Star is sure Dominic will make her aware… But Iris West’s enlightenment will come at a price. Dominic’s heart and Barry’s faith and ultimately it will end in two men being heartbroken but only one true north will prevail. 

“Star…” She breathes excitingly, wanting to dilute the awkward moment from before with her cheery personality. “Hi, how’s everything? How are you?” She rattles off as she takes a seat, placing her purse in the empty seat next to her. 

Star turns with a folder in hand and a smirk. “Iris… were not friends. No need for pleasantries. We can get right to business.” She sits down, opens the file, and turns it toward Iris. 

“Oh, right.” She swallows. Star is right they aren’t friends but success has made Iris a bit friendly. Positive remarks from the media, engagement being up 30% plus the following to back it, and a hand full of sponsor and endorsement deals waiting for her signature. Business has been good. Life is good and Star Koriand’r lengthy experience has played a major part in Iris’s success but Barry Allen has played an even bigger role in life’s victories. “So, what is this that I’m looking at?” Her eyes skim the first page. Her brows lower in confusion as she reads… “West-Allen’s Island?” 

“I know it’s corny.” She laughs with a cringe. “But this is the first installment contract for your spin-off show.” She turns the page, showing Iris the official contract.

“Wow,” Her fingers outline her name being attached to different positions revolving around the show. “Co-producer and co-director?” She reads with uncertainty though her eyes light up and a small smile crosses her face. 

“Yes, but don’t get too excited. I’m sure there are several things in small print that need to be negotiated and revised, including that title name.” She jokes. 

“Right,” she sighs a chuckle. “But trust me I’m not all that excited.” Iris guesses from Star’s lowered brows and the slight lean of her head that she wants an explanation. “It’s just…” She twists her lips to one side, scrunching up her mouth. “I’m a little pessimistic about this. There has been a lot of talk about me, about my relationship. And people have not been so kind…” She smiles but the slow exhales of breath that she takes reveal remnants of hurt that she’s been holding onto. 

“Hmm,” Star hums under her breath, realizing she’s… “You’re scared.” Iris nods solemnly. “Trust, I get it. Success is terrifying. Obtaining, achieving, progressing…” She sighs. “It’s a lot. And sadly it will always be a constant, nagging pressure to sustain that success and accomplish more. But failing is much worse. Do you know why?” Iris opens her mouth to answer but no words pass through, causing her to shake her head slowly. “Because it’s easy. It doesn’t require much effort or allow us…” She points back and forth between them. “To produce or work outside of our comfort zones. And though failure has great teachable moments.” Star leans forward, elbows on her desk with her hands clasped together. “Nobody will care unless it ends in triumph.” 

“Right, of course…” Iris nods slowly. “It’s just I’ve never done so little but been given so much.” Her experience with her mother and Scott has forced her into the role of a giver, and she’s adapted to the supporting role quite efficiently. So it’s odd to receive so much when she feels so little. “It feels good yet so oddly unsatisfying to see all this growth that I haven’t contributed to… Weirdly, everything is alining without much effort yet I am still so far from my final destination.” 

“It’s called luck, Iris. The constant shift of chance…” She pauses for dramatic effect as Iris sits unmoved. “Don’t ever question success or probe through the layers of your life to find reasoning. It never works because the scales will always be uneven, constantly tipping to the left and then to the right. Same with relationships… Like you and Barry. I’m sure one of you is giving more than the other. That scale is unbalanced yet it won’t tip over because you have learned the balance of give and take.” Star is certain that Barry is the supporting cast member of his own story, contributing to Iris, the protagonist of their relationship. But just like the scale, it will constantly be shifting. So, just like Iris has learned to balance her once rocky relationship… She must learn how to relax and have equal footing in the chaos of failure and success. 

“Yeah… “ Iris sighs in understanding. 

*Knock, Knock* The assistant knocks before peeking her head through the door. “Sorry to interrupt again boss but you have a conference meeting in five.” The assistant leaves without a response, quickly closing the door back. 

“Well, I guess that’s my time,” Iris says lightly with a quick tug of her lips as she stands, grabbing her purse. 

“Some friendly advice…” She stands, grabs the folder, and extends it toward Iris. Iris grabs the contract but Star doesn’t release her grip, causing Iris to pause as their eyes meet. “Therapy.” It’s not a command but a simple request. One that can benefit the longevity of Ms. West’s career and maybe save the inevitable outcome of her public relationship. 

Iris pauses with a perplexed look on her face. “Hm, I thought we weren’t friends.” Iris uses Star’s words against her, using the tools she taught to get out of this useless conversation on therapy. Iris may be stubborn but she knows that therapy will never be her cure… only a reminder of her failure. 

Star smirks, knowing how this conversation will end. “We aren’t.” 

“Good, then there is no need for any friendly advice.” She tips the folder with a matching smirk as she turns on her heels and leaves. 

“Hmm,” She hums in amusement. Iris West is learning and adapting at an alarming rate. Her ability to be sharp-witted and charming will always keep her from being infamous or a heel in the public eye. But her inability to solve her woes will cause her private life to bleed through the public if she’s not careful. But until then… “Well played Ms. West. Well played.” 

TALKS WITH KEYSHIA

“I don’t care about any of these recent excuses she’s been making… I am not buying it.” She gruffs as she steps out of her car with her shoulder pressing her phone to her ear. 

Iris is a little frustrated with her bestie from college. Linda and Iris have been friends for years and never has Linda been unavailable to her. While Iris can easily forgive for the lack of workmanship Linda has been putting in for The Citizen… She’s finding it hard to forgive the unanswered phone calls, late texts, and no-shows during the holidays. Iris is taken aback by her friend’s sudden absence from her life. It’s so not like Linda to be so inaccessible.

“Come on Iris. Don’t be like that…” Iris rolls her eyes at the serious tone of her cousin’s voice as she slams the door shut with her hip. “Linda could possibly be going through some relationship stuff with Wally and doesn’t want to concern you with it. You did say that you didn’t want to be put in the middle of their bullshit.” Iris grumbles under her breath as she grabs her purse from the back seat. 

Correct, Iris does not want to be involved in whatever is going on with her best friend and her brother because it isn’t real. They are just two people that have some underlining attraction toward each other and had a drunken night together. Iris has done this a few times and it never resulted in anything remotely sincere. Their relationship is purely driven by sexual desire and nothing more. 

“Oh, you wanna get an attitude? Fine, let’s talk some real shit then.” Iris’s head falls back and her eyes close as she mopes, knowing her cousin is about to rip her a new one. “Let’s not act like a ginger-headed bird bitch hasn’t gone mia because of some man before. Actually, this same cute little bird bitch went missing from her girls all summer except for one drunken night in September when this flat-foot ass bird begged me to call her ex so she could fuck him and then have no recollection of it the next day. Then six months later the same bird moves in with the same man she was just crying over and buys a house in some fancy residential area with a fireplace, a damn swimming pool, and a hammock… And doesn’t even invite a bitch to the housewarming party. That’s sad.” 

“Keyshia…” She says her name plainly.

“What?” Keyshia answers smartly. 

“You were invited.” Iris’s tone is unenthused as she walks to the front door of her house. 

“Oh…I was?”

“Yes,” She drags as she aimlessly digs into her purse for her keys. “You would know that if you check our family group chat.” Iris switches her phone to the opposite shoulder, pressing it to her ear as she pushes her key into the lock, turning until it clicks open.

“Girl, I don’t check them bible verses and old-ass holiday posters. I got that shit on Do Not Disturb.” 

Iris would usually laugh at her cousin’s bluntness but she can’t seem to form words as her mouth falls open and her legs are unable to move forward. “Uhh, Keyshia, let me call you back.” She says slowly as her mouth never closes and her eyes follow the trail of rose petals leading into the empty living room. 

“Why? I’m not done being mean to you.” She mumbles. “Why are you so quiet? Tsk, Barry’s naked ain’t he? Showing off that long meat huh-” Iris hangs up as she slowly walks into the open living room, heels stepping on the crisp petals.

“...” She gasps silently, lips spreading into a blushing smile as she sees Barry standing in front of an intimately decorated round table with a flute in his hand. “Honey…” She says breathlessly, unable to articulate the overwhelming emotion of gratitude as her heart swells with love. 

He stands so confidently tall with his hair gelled back, his oxford shoes shining, his shirt ironed, and his pants pleated with a chef’s apron wrapped around his waist. The lights are dim with a single candle burning on the table, giving off a soft glow. And the mixture smells of wine and pasta whiffing through the air. 

“This is for you.” He murmurs with a charming smile as he hands her a glass filled with her favorite wine. 

“Babe…” She whines, happily taking the tall glass of Moscato and taking a much-needed sip. Iris is unable to say much else, watching him with soft eyes as he grabs her phone and purse. He then walks behind her, sliding her blazer off her shoulders and placing them neatly on one of the boxes in the corner of the room. “What is all this?” She questions breathlessly as she is in awe of the romantic setting. 

He shrugs innocently with a small smile as he pulls the chair out for her. “I just didn’t want you to second guess.” Barry can read Iris like the back of his hand, but he still can’t quite gauge her true feelings about this house. Francine did everything and more. She found the listing, toured the place with him, negotiated an offer, and even put his house up for rent so he can have an extra stream of income. Francine was quick and efficient. But Iris was docile and swift with the process without much collaboration. This is his home but is it truly Iris’s? 

“Barr,” She sighs, ignoring his gentlemanly gestures as she set her glass on the table. She then grabs his wrist, turning him to face her. “I love our place… Any place with you and DJ is home to me. Now, what is this all about, huh?” She wraps her arms around his waist, pulling his pelvis to her as she looks into his soft eyes. 

He shrugs one shoulder, feeling fervor and timid under her questioning gaze. “I don’t know… I just want to give you the home you deserve.” His hands squeeze her arms, rubbing against the silk fabric of her blouse. 

“And I do.” She reassures. “I have everything I need.” She says softly before lifting onto the soles of her feet and pressing her lips to his in a sweet kiss. 

“Promise?” He whispers against her lips with his eyes still closed, basking in the sweet fragrance of her perfume. 

“I promise.” She breathes as she hugs him, leaving soft kisses on both cheeks. “Now, what is all this, honey? You put all the kitchenware away, broke down boxes, and cooked?” She expresses with much gratitude, looking around the sparkling clean kitchen except for a few pots and pans on the stove. 

Iris has to be completely honest with herself. She may never forgive Francine. She may never speak to Francine. She may not even utter her name again. But she will not let her mother’s work go in vain. She will not let their strained relationship taint her home. This is the home she shares with the love of her life and their child and she will not let outside feelings tarnish that. 

“Well, it is Wednesday. DJ and Zoë are at my mom’s.” He utters with charm with a gentle hand on the small of her back, guiding her into her seat. “And I wanted to do something special for my lady.” He leans down and she lifts her chin as he pecks her lips. 

“Hm,” She smiles against his lips, smitten by his affection. “So, what does this special night intel?” She says softly with flirty eyes. 

“Well, first we’ll have dinner prepared by yours truly. Then dessert, of course, one of your favorites. And then we will end the night binge-watching a show of your choosing and a foot rub.” 

“Wow, I’m impressed, Mr. Allen. You sure do know how to keep a girl happy.” She teases though also wonders what she can do for him. What does she do? How can she compete? How can she contribute? Is there love equal? Is Star right? Are the scales of their relationship unbalanced? 

He chuckles. “Anything to make you happy, baby.” He squeezes her shoulder before walking to the kitchen. “Besides, we both have been so stressed with work… So, I decided to take a half day.” Truthfully and surprisingly
Barry isn’t burnt out … But Iris is. She’s taking a mental beating from fans, her mother, and herself. Funny, how Iris is so quick to forgive others but never herself, making it impossible to move past the hurt that still lingers in her smile, in her eyes, in her aura. Which also makes it impossible for Barry to look past it. 

And while this intimate dinner is a genuine gesture it is also used as a guise for a secret agenda. This strategic plan is to get Iris to agree to therapy again. Second time’s a charm right? 

“Oh?” She perks up with raised brows. 

“Yeah, the kids had a field trip today so I didn’t have much to do once they left after nutrition.” He says offhandedly with his back turned toward her though he is sweating bullets. 

“Oh…” She tips her glass to her lips but hesitates as a thought crosses her mind. “Then who closed the school? Don’t you usually do that?” 

He walks toward the table with two plates in his hands. “Mmm,” He sucks his lips into his mouth as he gulps. “Yup.” His lips make a popping noise as he sets the plate before her. “But um, Ms. Mcculloch offered to close the school for me.” Iris doesn’t respond she only blinks. “She’s usually there super late anyways. So, it wasn’t that big of a deal. Just a platonic favor between co-workers.” Barry is always awkward in conversations about Eva with Iris, knowing it has the potential to make her uncomfortable or worse… Jealous. 

“Wow, nice of her.” She says with sarcasm though she doesn’t mean to be sarcastic. It’s not that Iris doesn’t like Eva per se… It’s the title she has a problem with. Eva is an ex, a co-worker, and a friend. And that slightly gets under Iris’ skin, knowing Barry doesn’t have the best track record with any of his exes or ex-flings. 

He slowly drops into his seat. “Yeeeaaahhh,” He croaks with a cringe. “So, anyways enough about her. Let’s talk about something interesting… Like this food that I put my foot in as Grandma Esther would say.” He laughs goofily but quickly catches on to Iris’s unmoved demeanor as the smile falls from his face. 

Iris puts her elbows on the table with her intertwined fingers under her chin as she follows Barry with her eyes, watching as he slumps in his seat. “So, you guys are talking again?” No, Iris is not jealous. She’s just concerned, worried about getting burnt again by a crazy ex. Surprisingly, Patty has been rather quiet on social media, but talks of her hiring private security for the reunion speak volumes. And Marlize… Well, she’s been rather corruptive… This makes Iris a tad uneasy, knowing just a few months ago she had so many concerns about DJ’s whereabouts. 

“Umm, yes…” He mumbles with his lips twisted to one side. “Is that a problem?” He asks, leaning his head slightly to the left to gauge her response. 

“No,” She says simply. “I was just wondering when she started being so friendly again. I mean you do have some crazy exes.” She teases, biting her bottom lip to hold in a smile. 

He laughs. “That I do…” Then gives her a pointed look with raised eyebrows. 

“Ahh,” She gawks with her mouth open. “I am not crazy…” 

“No, no you aren’t crazy.” He picks up his fork, shuffling around his food. “You just have some unhinged tendencies.” He mumbles. 

“Unhinged Barry, really?” She gasps with her hand over her heart. 

“I mean you did call me pissy drunk at three in the morning for a booty call and then the next day had no recollection of it and broke up with me… Again… Then some months later you showed up at my job-” 

“Well, you burst out a declaration of love in the middle of a heated argument after your little situation showed up uninvited.” She counters with a point of her fork. “Oh, and let’s not forget how you showed up at my apartment unannounced, demanding I leave you alone. It seems you got some craze moments of passion too my dear.” She says smartly with a smirk.

Barry’s lips spread into a warm smile before raising his glass of water toward Iris. “Touche,” He clinks his glass to hers before they both take a sip. “Now can we focus on us, babe? I spent hours on this dinner.”

“Yes, of course, sorry.” She reaches her hand across the table, opening her palm. He places his hand in hers, squeezing gently. “So, tell me what I’ll be eating this evening Chef Allen.” 

“I’m glad you asked Ms. West… This is a creamy Tuscan salmon with lobster ravioli.” He says proudly, watching as she takes her first bite and moans. 

“Mmm,” She moans, taking another bite.

“It’s good right?” He inquires with excitement. 

“Mhmm,” She nods in agreement with her mouth full and her eyes closed. “This is so good. Thank you, baby.” 

“You’re welcome.” Barry thinks this is the perfect moment to breach the conversation about therapy as he watches Iris indulge, enjoying her meal. He has to be casual and calm. He doesn’t want to push too hard or force. He just wants her to be relaxed enough to understand his views but also comfortable enough to express her true disdain for outside help. “So…” He drags, pushing around his food with his eyes cast down. “How are you?” He asks casually but instantly regrets the simplicity of the question. 

“How am I?” She asks in confusion, watching as Barry nods while cutting through his salmon. “I’m fine.” She says plainly with a hump of her shoulder. “How are you?”

“Good, good. All of me is good.” He answers through bites of food. “How was work? Didn’t you have your monthly meeting with Star today?” Good, progression Barry. Stay casual. Nice, easy, and slow. Don’t freak her out and don’t reveal the plan too quickly. 

“Work was blah.” She says nonchalantly. “I got a few articles up today. And do you know Linda hasn’t uploaded on The Citizen since last year before we even got on the show?!” 

“What?” He expresses dramatically, hoping he can somehow use her writer’s block to somehow prompt the conversation on therapy. 

“Yeah,” She grumbles as she chews her food. “And honestly, I don’t care if she doesn’t write on the website. Nobody is really reading for health and fitness anyway.” She mutters as digs her fork between the raviolo, scraping it against the glass plate. “But what’s bothering me is she hasn’t talked to me or seen me since Thanksgiving.”

“No,” He exaggerates.  

“Yes,” She nods excessively. “I called her. It goes to voicemail. I text her and she doesn’t answer till hours later. I call Wally and he’s constantly making excuses for her. She’s either asleep, away somewhere, or at her parent’s. It’s just so not like her.” She stresses. 

Iris just really misses her friend. Linda is just as much of a sister and best friend as Keyshia. Iris understands Linda is in a committed relationship with Wally and this is all new for her. But this life is new for Iris too. Iris can balance work, family, friends, and being a girlfriend and stepmother. So, why can’t Linda? Why isn’t Linda Park available? 

“Well, you know Linda isn’t my favorite person… But maybe she’s just busy.” He shrugs one shoulder. “I mean this is both Wally and Linda’s first committed relationship and maybe friends and family are some kind of distraction for them. Kinda like with us… How we needed time away from Central City to reconnect.” Linda is not Barry’s favorite person but it is odd for her and Iris not to talk for this long. Everything was fine the day they went to the salon. Then after that Linda started acting wishy-washy. 

“I guess.” She says under her breath.

“She’ll come around… I promise.” He hopes. “But enough about her. How was your meeting with Star?” He asks before taking a sip of his water. 

“Umm…” She drags, leaning her head to the side as she looks up at the ceiling. “Enlightening?” She says with confusion written all over her face, wondering if that’s the right way to describe her meeting with Ms. Koriand’r. 

“Enlightening? How so?” 

“Yeah, she just had a lot of opinions and advice?” She chuckles, letting her words linger with uncertainty. 

“About what?” He asks lightly though desperately hoping Star’s advice doesn’t interfere with his agenda. 

“Mainly about me… My success, my failure, luck, and how scales will always be tipping.” Iris sees the puzzlement on Barry’s face. “Yeah, I don’t really know what she was talking about.” But she does. Iris’s constant fear is people’s ability to see her. To see her constant doubt. To see her constant failures. To see her constant imperfections. And Star’s advice only amplified those fears. And Star’s depiction of Iris and Barry’s relationship constantly tipping in Iris’s favor will only increase the number of burdens she’ll be willing to carry to even those scales. “But one valuable thing did come out of the meeting.” She rushes out of her seat with renewed happiness as she walks toward her purse, pulling out the Love Island Production contract. “Here.” She expresses cheerily as she stands over him, pushing the stack of paper into his personal space. 

“Oh.” He grabs the contract, slowly scanning through the pages. 

“What’d you think?” She asks gently, clasped hands at her mouth as she nibbles on her knuckles. 

He looks up at her bursting with nervous energy. “Uh…” He makes a throaty sound as he scratches the back of his neck, unsure of how to breach such a sensitive topic. “Well, um…” He tries again but only awkward noises fall from his mouth. “You know this is…” He stutters. “This is great… But um.” He gulps, running his finger through his hair.

Iris’s eyebrows knit as she watches him struggle through his sentence. “What is it, babe? Do you not want to do this?” She asks softly with a hint of disappointment. 

“No, no it’s not that. It’s just…” He pauses with his mouth slightly open. “I don’t think we’re prepared for this.” Barry wants this for Iris. He wants her to succeed. But the show, the media already interfered in their relationship once and he does want the same to happen again.

“What’d you mean?” Her brows lower as she folds her arms over her chest.

“I mean that maybe we should give this therapy thing another chance.” 

“Barry,” She sighs his name with an irritated huff. “I already told you how I felt about therapy. It’s not for me! All that woman did was write a couple of notes in her notepad and give me some generic advice that I could find on a hallmark card.” She says smartly with her hands on the back of her waist. 

“I know. I know. But just hear me out for a second.” He gently grabs the back of her leg, pulling her closer to him. “I want what’s best for you. And this show is what’s best for your career. But I don’t want it to come at the expense of our relationship.”

Iris takes a seat on his lap sideways as she cradles his jaw with both hands. “Babe, that’s not gonna happen. I promise.” She hopes.

“Then you shouldn’t have a problem doing this one thing for me.” No, Barry is not keeping track of the many things he does for Iris. But he is keeping track of the many obligations he must meet in order to keep Love Island Production interested in Iris. And though this show will be a positive light for Iris’s career… It may not be for their relationship. He is just trying to prevent a disconnect from deteriorating their bond. 

“Barry…” She sighs exhaustedly, lifting from his lap. 

He grabs her thigh gently, not allowing her to walk away. “Iris, I just want to be prepared.” 

“Prepared for what?!” She whines with a dramatic stomp of her foot. Barry then goes silent with his tongue roaming around his teeth as he turns back to his food. “Ughh,” Iris forces out of her lungs. “Okay, okay, okay.” She rushes as she reluctantly straddles his lap, giving him her undivided attention. 

“Thank you. Now listen to me… The reunion is coming up soon and we’ll be traveling to a different state just to be asked ridiculous questions and be judged by our answers. Then in a few months, we’ll potentially be under contract again with the same people that tried to break us apart.” He stresses calmly and Iris listens intently though her eyes focus on his shirt, fingers fidgeting with his buttons. “We are going to be constantly reminded and reliving some of the worse moments between us for clicks and views. We will be sitting across from people that we consider enemies. We will be ridiculed for what we do and bashed for what we don’t. Then Star wants us to put on a believable fairytale facade when we could just be ourselves…” He lifts her chin, forcing her to make eye contact. “We can just be Barry and Iris.” His lips lift in a smile, causing her to timidly blush as her hands continue to fiddle with the buttons of his shirt. 

Barry continues. “I know how you feel about therapy. I don’t want to reflect or relive some of our worst moments either.” He grabs her wrist, placing her hands around his neck. “But maybe it’ll be beneficial, helping us rediscover or remember our failures in a different light. And who knows… We might even discover new things about each other.” Barry cannot change the past but he can change his reactions toward it. He wants to use therapy as a calmness before the storm. He doesn’t want anything to trouble their peace. No unreleased footage. No blind-siding information. No popup. Nothing. Nothing will get Barry to react as he did the night of his son’s birthday. And he hopes with therapy that nothing will cause Iris to believe that she has to carry more burdens of guilt that were never hers to bear. 

Iris softens under his steady gaze before meekly mumbling… “Okay,” Maybe Barry is right… Of course, he’s right. This reunion is about rehashing some of her worst moments. Moments that she wishes she could forget. And while Iris’s dislike for therapy is valid… It doesn’t mean she can’t compromise for the man she loves. 

“Really?” He’s taken aback. 

“Yeah…” She says softly as her thumb smooths down the hairs of his eyebrow. 

“Just like that?” He inquires with slight disbelief though he’s grinning from ear to ear.  

Her mouth falls open. “Um, yes…” She hits him with the back of her hand. “I do listen to you sometimes.” 

“That hasn’t been my experience.” He counters with playful intent. 

Iris snots with a roll of her eyes. “Shut up.” She grabs his chin, pecking his lips. 

“Thank you, babe.” His hands rub her thighs as he leans in for another kiss but Iris stops him with a hand on his chest.

“Wait, what do I get for participating in this anticlimactic test treatment?” She says smartly, locking her hands behind his head. 

He rubs his chin in thought. “Mmm, some dessert?” He wiggles his eyebrows goofily. 

“Ooo, what is it?” She whispers against his lips seductively as her nails scratch along the hairs on his neck. “Is it in the freezer? Some mint chocolate chip?” She bounces in his lap excitedly.

He licks his lips as his eyes shift from her eyes to her glossy lips. “Umm, yes…” He rasps before abruptly standing, as he balances her in his arms with his hands under her bottom. Iris gasps breathlessly as she giggles and clings to his body with her arms wrapped tightly around his neck. “And some hot, steamy dessert in our bedroom.” He flirts as he carries her upstairs, getting an early start on their weekly adult activities. 

THERAPY 

“Mm, hm, mmm, hmm…” He’s humming, vocal cords purring as his Chuck Taylors tap against the plain-colored carpet. He licks his thumb, making it damp before turning the page of the sports magazine he’s reading. His eyes scan over the athletic images as his brows raise then knit while reading the latest news on his favorite players. Barry is patient and contently waiting.

Iris on the other hand is fidgety. Her bright-colored nails rap against the stiff couch that is making her ass numb with the lack of proper cushioning. “...” She sighs, exhaling harshly, and groaning under her breath as she watches the time tick away on the desk clock that’s three minutes behind. She’s gnawing, grinding her teeth together as she chews the sweetness out of the fourth piece of gum she’s had in the span of two minutes. She then shifts in her seat for the fifth time since the desk clerk called them into this stuffy room as she crosses her knee over the other, forcing her boots to knock against the stiff couch. She’s hoping to throw off Barry’s peaceful reading and annoying humming as she is painfully impatient and hates waiting. 

Unluckily, her silent complaining doesn’t work as the humming and page-turning continues. Iris rolls her eyes and huff, hating that she agreed to this session at such late notice. “Barr, who is this person we’re supposed to be seeing again?” She says with a lackluster attitude. 

“My family therapist, Dr. Finkel.” He murmurs out of the side of his mouth as he focuses all his attention on reading. 

“Family therapist?” She inquires with raised brows, placing her hand over the magazine to have his full attention.

“Yeah,” He says casually before maneuvering the magazine over her hand and flipping to the next page.

“You didn’t tell me this person has previous knowledge about you, babe.” Her voice lifts with concern as she shifts sideways toward him before placing her hand over the magazine again and pressing it down onto his lap. 

He exhales with a roll of his neck. “I didn’t think it was a big deal.” He truly believes that it isn’t. Doctor Sharon Finkel has been counseling him and his mother from his junior year in high school till his sophomore year in college. She helped him mature a lot… Kind of. Doctor Finkel is forthcoming and honest and he trusts her judgment. He also believes that Iris will have a better experience with Dr. Finkel than with the previous one, allowing this secession to go much smoother than her first experience. 

“Barry, you know this person.” She stresses. “You two have history, rapport with one another.” Her chewing becomes more intense as she gnaws on her gum.

“Baby, what does that matter?” He stresses, countering her remark.

“Because now we are not on equal footing.” Subconsciously, Iris is trying to find any reason to leave. Her impatience. Any loose information. Her boyfriend’s comfort. She’ll use anything to use as a scapegoat. “I’ll be going through the vetting process while you two just will be catching up.” 

He doesn’t respond but only gives her a knowing look. “I hope you know that I know what you’re doing.”

Her eyebrows knit. “What am I doing?” Her voice reeks of faux innocents. 

“You are trying to sabotage.” He smirks, lifting her dainty hand off his magazine. Iris looks dumbfounded though she tries to conceal it by biting down on her bottom lip. “I already know these little games you’re playing, girl.” He wags his finger in her face, playfully. “Like that little stunt you pulled in the car, putting your hands in places it doesn’t belong…” Iris rolls her tongue over her teeth, trying to hide her blush. “And that’s why I made sure to get us here fifteen minutes early.” He says smartly before focusing back on his magazine. 

She smirks with a roll of her eyes. “Smart ass…” She mumbles under her breath.

“I’m sorry, what was that? I couldn’t quite hear you.” He teases, leaning into her personal space as he taps his ear.

She laughs, nudging him out of her space. “Shut up.” She chuckles before spitting her sweet-less gum into the old wrapper. 

The front door suddenly opens. “Hi Barry, so good to see you again.” Iris gulps and instantly straightens as the therapist walks through the door. Iris gives her a once-over and quickly notices that this Dr. Sharon Finkel looks the usual. Flowy clothes, inviting smiles, warm presence, and hand-made trinkets as jewelry… But she doesn’t have the infamous notebook. Is this a social call or are they in a professional therapy session? “God, it’s been ages.” Dr. Finkel squeezes Barry’s shoulder with friendly intent. “Oh, and where are my manners? You must be Iris.” She outstretches her hand for Iris to shake. 

“Yes, hi…” She smiles politely, shaking the woman’s hand. 

“Wow, she is just as beautiful as you described, Barry.” Finkel compliments, winking at Barry. 

Barry looks at Iris with a bright smile. “Yes, she is…” 

Iris blushes timidly. “Thank you.” She tilts her head in appreciation toward the doctor. 

“I am so sorry I kept you waiting.” Finkel walks to her desk, grabbing a notepad and two pens. 

“...” Iris inhales harshly as she eyes the pesky and judgmental notepad. Her shoulder stiffens and her stomach tightens as she reverses her knee over the other. 

“Oh, no, no it’s fine.” Barry waves off. “Thank you for squeezing us in. I know how limited your time is with your busy schedule.” He puts the magazine back on the coffee table. 

“Oh, well you made it sound so urgent over the phone,” Finkel says offhandedly, taking a seat in the chair before them.  

Iris’s brows lift. “Urgent?” She questions, looking at Barry knowingly. 

Barry’s eyes widen and his heart skips a beat. “Nooooo…” He laughs hysterically. “No, not urgent. I’m just excited…” He pats Iris’s knee. “To dive in.” He smiles gleefully. “Right, honey?” He looks at Iris but her fiery glare causes him to gulp as he scratches the back of his neck.

Iris then quickly turns her attention toward the doctor. “Oh, absolutely… I love therapy.” She says with faux cheeriness though thankfully only Barry can see through the fake smile and positive attitude. 

“Oh, have you been before?” Finkel asks as she clicks the tip of the pen, ready to write down Iris’s response. 

Iris subtly rolls her eyes. “Once.” She answers curtly. 

“Hmm, do you mind me asking why? Was it for medical reasons…” She lingers though she can guess by the tightness in Iris’s jaw that her observation is correct.

Iris pauses, nibbling on her inner cheek as she mulls over her options. Does this doctor deserve the truth or the correct answer? “Ummm…” Iris abruptly stops, feeling Barry’s hand on her lower back. His warmth. The softness of his hand grounds her, easing her into telling the truth. “Yes. I had a false pregnancy.” Thankfully, she was able to say it without getting choked up. 

“Ohh, a pseudocyesis pregnancy,” Finkel mumbles as she writes it down on her notepad.

Iris swallows hard, hating the remnant feelings about being judged. “But I’m okay with it.” She quickly catches onto how her words sound. “I mean I’m not okay with it, obviously. I mean I’d prefer to have my five-month-old belly, swollen ankles, increased appetite, and tender breasts.” She rattles off with a forced widened smile. “I just meant that I’ve already dealt with it. So, I don’t think it’s worth writing down.” She rushes through with a casual shrug. 

Finkel smiles and nods before responding. “Oh, these are just for me.” She waves off. “Just to get a sense of who you are. Trust me, I am not judging you. I only want to get to know you, Iris as I have Barry. This secession is about you as much as it is about him. Is that okay?”

Barry holds his breath, hoping she’ll agree. 

“Yeah,” Iris agrees, feeling just a tad less tense. 

“Good, now I want to start this process with a little exercise instead of just diving into the seriousness head-on.” Finkel rips a sheet of paper in half. “You two are here together but might want to discuss two different things that might have two different outcomes.” She stands, handing Barry and Iris a pen and paper. “So I want you to write anything you want but it can not be more than ten words.” Barry’s brows knit and Iris’s mouth opens to interject. “Yes, you have a word limit so be specific and direct.” Finkel watches as Barry taps his pen against his lips and Iris nibbles on hers. 

This exercise isn’t about harping on the past or future. It’s about learning how to listen first and react last. This isn’t about fixing but maintaining. Barry and Iris must master how to study the other’s body language and thoughts, reading each other’s minds without having to utter a word.  

Barry finishes first, handing the doctor his paper and pen as Iris reluctantly does the same. Dr. Finkel skims each paper and quickly notices a topic missing from both sheets. “Okay, here are the rules. Only I am allowed to ask the questions. You can only answer and you are not allowed to speak for each other. If the question is for Barry, only he can answer. Also if I ask a question that bothers either of you in any way, for whatever reason you can choose not to answer by simply being silent. This exercise is about listening… So, any questions?” Barry and Iris shake their heads no. “Great, now before we start I did notice that neither of you put sex on your list. Is that a touchy subject or an off-limits topic?” She guesses. 

Barry brightens as he sits up straight, hyper-focused on the topic at hand. “No, no, no it’s not off-limits at all.” His body language is nonchalant though his eyes are wide and his neck has turned red. 

Iris perks up as she slips out of her jacket, craving the opportunity to dive into the dry-spell sex topic. “Oh, yeah…” She waves off nonchalantly. “You most definitely can ask us anything about sex.” She almost pleads. 

Finkel quickly catches onto the desperation. “These questions are simple but your answer does not have to be.” Barry and Iris nod. “So, Iris do you enjoy having sex with Barry?” 

Iris blushes and happily answers the question. “I do.” She looks at him and he smirks. “I enjoy being intimate with him…” She tugs on his neck, playfully. Then she suddenly has the urge to express more. “He honestly makes me feel safe and desired and loved. And I don’t think I’ve ever felt those three things until I met Barry.” He scratches along his beard, trying to hide his blushing smile. “He knows me. He knows my body and that makes me feel secure.” She expresses honestly. 

Finkel moves on to Barry's question which is a little more complex. “Barry, what is sex like with Iris versus with previous partners.” Iris clears her throat with her fist over her mouth, trying to hide her discomfort. 

Dr. Finkel can always tell when a person is bothered by their partner’s past. Whether the past has been dealt with or not it’s always good to revisit certain situations just to see if there are any lingering issues there. Obviously, there are since this was Iris’s topic of choice. 

Barry thinks as his eyes drift toward the ceiling. “Don’t think. Just express yourself freely.” Finkel corrects. 

He nods, agreeing with her. “Mmm, making love with Iris is timeless. Being intimate with her is paramount. It’s trust. It’s passionate. It’s honest. It’s emotional and faithful. It’s love.” Iris listens intently, hanging on his every word. “Before Iris, sex was always about seeking validation. Praise was my selfish requirement from past partners. Hell, even Iris in moments when I was feeling less than.” 

Iris didn’t realize until now that sex was an ongoing inner battle for him. An insecurity that she reaped the benefits of. 

“I became so consumed by my insecurities that I tricked myself into believing I was a selfless lover. When really there was no difference… I was the same self-loathing man with toxic emotional ran behaviors and misogynistic thoughts all while trying to be Iris's perfect match. Her only match.” He’s ashamed of his past behaviors as he lowers his head in shame. “And weirdly enough I think us breaking up made me better… Made me realize that I wasn’t as whole as I thought. It also made me realize that Iris has me in ways that I could never share with another woman.” Barry licks his lips, feeling his eyes gloss over with tears. 

“Man, being with Iris…” He sniffs. “Being with her makes it easy to forgive. To forgive myself. She makes it easy to smile, to laugh. She makes it easy to love…” He turns to her with tears in his eyes. Iris then curls her finger, wiping a tear that threatens to fall from his eye. “Iris, loving you is so overwhelming and consuming. Being intimate… though it is not frequent.” Barry jokes, making Iris laugh as Finkel watches the couple happily. “It is less about me and more about us. No matter if it’s a race or a marathon. No matter the position. No matter the rhythm or tempo...” Iris subtly licks her lips, aroused as her eyes dilate. “It’s about our needs, our pleasures, our fulfillments. It’s about us connecting. It’s about us enjoying ourselves without any outside noise or thoughts. It’s about making each other feel intense pleasure while chasing our deepest desires.” Iris’ breath becomes shallow and her cheeks flush under his loving gaze as she looks into his piercing green eyes. “And to think I was afraid of this…” He gestures between the two of them. “I was so scared of intimacy to the point where sex was conditional and required limited access to my thoughts and my commitment…” He turns his body fully toward Iris as he grabs her hands, rubbing his thumbs against her knuckles. “But you, Iris, you have all of me. You’re my safe place, my peace. You’re my home.”

Her eyes gleam as her lips spread into a smile. “I love you.” She mouths.

“I love you.” He repeats before turning his attention back to the grinning doctor. “Sorry, Doctor Finkel…”

“No, need to apologize.” She waves off. “These answers will get quite complex if you allow it…” She smiles before turning her attention to Iris. “Iris, how is your mother?” Finkel asks simply, trying to guess her experiences from her reaction. 

Iris’ heart skips a beat. “Um… which one?” She quips, hoping to disguise her discomfort with a joke. 

“Oh, you have two mom,” Finkel mumbles as she writes in her notes. “Do you mind giving a little insight on that?” 

Iris is flustered. She’s not here to talk about her mom. She doesn’t want to talk about her mom. It is too soon. It’s way too soon, right?

Dr. Finkel waits, watching Iris silently struggle with her inner thoughts. Finkel respects her silence. Iris isn’t ready for this simple question that needs a complicated answer. Iris is trying and that is good enough. So, Finkel graciously moves on. “So, Barry how is your mother-”

“I love my mom but I don’t like her…” Iris interjects softly. “She is my polar opposite and I hate that we don’t get along.” She picks at her nails, afraid to look up as she hears the pen ink across the notepad. “She never wanted children. Yet here I am…” She motions over herself as a self-deprecating joke. “She told me that on the day of my surprise birthday party. She selfishly chose my day to tell her truth about never wanting me to exist.” Iris pauses as her lips tremble and her eyes well up with tears. “Funny thing about it is… I already knew. I also knew and had been living with it for the past twenty years. What’s even funnier is… I got an abortion, killing my chances of being a mother because I was so terrified of being anything like her.” Iris closes her eyes for a brief moment, letting that truth wash over her as the tears start flowing. 

Barry hates seeing Iris like this as he moves closer toward her, massaging her shoulders. He hates that he can’t mend this relationship. He also hates that Iris may never want to. Though Francine doesn’t know how to be a mother… He believes she still wants to be in Iris’s life. 

“I resent her so much… I resent her for making me believe the fantasy, believing that she truly loved my dad.” She roughly wipes the heavy tear that falls down her face. “I remember as a little girl I would sit on the staircase with my head through the bars, clutching them as I watched my parents’ slow dance for hours. It was beautiful…” She smiles, reminiscing on the memory. “And I always dreamed of having a love-” She stops mid sentences, sucking in her bottom lip between her teeth. “But it was fake. All of it. She was fulfilling an obligation that her mother demanded from her. And when I was old enough she started doing the same to me, wanting me to live up to her commands and requirements. But I had already fallen in love with the facade she performed… And she detest the fact that I love everything she once hated about herself.” She pauses, swallowing down tears. “But back to your questions. Yeah, my mom is fine.” She lifts one shoulder with a nonchalant attitude. “Actually, she’s ecstatic. She and her partner moved back to Central City. They bought a health rehabilitation center on the outskirts and live about twenty minutes from my family home. So, she is a happy camper.” Her lips stretch into a fake smile as she dries all her tears with the back of her hand. 

“Thank you for the insight. It definitely gave me some clarity.” Clarity, that a heartbroken child makes a broken adult and that storyline will be a generational curse if Iris doesn’t break it. “Barry, do Iris and your mother get along?” 

He scrunches his lips up. “Um, I think they’re better. You two are pretty cordial, right?” He looks to Iris for an answer and she nods in agreement. “Yeah, much better than a couple of months ago.” 

“Iris how would you feel….” She pauses, needing to reword her questions. “And this is a guesstimation.” She raises her hands, making direct eye contact with Iris before making her point. “How do you feel knowing that your family treats Barry with kindness and love and accepts him as a part of the family but his mother doesn’t do the same for you? How does that feel? And how would you feel if his mother never wants a relationship with you outside of pleasantries? How does that affect you and how does that affect your relationship with Barry?” Finkel asks these bloated questions so that Barry can comprehend the complex answer. 

Her eyes widen as her brows rise into her hairline. “Wow, that, that’s some big questions huh?” She breathlessly chuckles through her sentence. “Umm…” She scratches her jaw, twisting her lips to one side of her face. “Honestly, I think I would be heartbroken. I would be jealous because my family loves Barry, especially my dad. My father thinks so highly of him and respects him on so many different levels. So yeah, it would be hard for me not to be envious of that.” She expresses herself with hand movements and gestures as she continues to explain her feelings. “And I get it. I understand her apprehensiveness completely. She loves her son and is sometimes hard on him because she wants him to make better choices… But aren’t I the better choice? Hell, even the best choice.” She stresses with her hand on her heart. “I would hate not having a personal relationship with Nora but I don’t think the lack of relationship with her would ever be harmful or affect our home in any way.” She expresses simply, gesturing between them. “But it would definitely hurt my feelings, yes.” 

“Okay, thank you for explaining. Now, do we need to ask any more questions regarding mothers?” Finkel questions, watching Iris and Barry shake their heads, motioning for her to move on. “Great, Iris…” She lingers, looking down at her notepad for the next question. “Ah, Iris, do you blame Barry for your false pregnancy?” Finkel purposefully saved the most recent topic for last, knowing that most of her new clients are on edge. Iris was so tense and stiff, uneasy and fidgety. Now she’s more relaxed, making it easy for her to express every opinion and passing thoughts.  

Barry gulps, feeling his chest getting tight as he licks his dry lips. But Iris doesn’t allow that narrative to even set in as she rushes to say… “No, absolutely not.” She shakes her head with much conviction. “I could never blame Barry for my desperation. We’ve been through a lot. Both of us made terrible mistakes which led to us breaking up…” She takes a breath as she swallows down her sorrows of the past. “But I just couldn’t stay away from him… And I tried. I really did try.” Barry snorts a chuckle while she laughs through her emotions. “And I really wanted a baby. I desperately wanted to have HIS baby. I wanted to give US both the experience that was taken from us.” Barry puts his hand on her knee, comforting her as he squeezes. Iris reciprocates the gestures, placing her hand on top of his as she gets teary-eyed. “It just wasn’t our time. It wasn’t the right moment.” She forces a teary smile. “But I am sure that our moment will come at the perfect time.” 

Finkel digs into her pocket, handing Iris a clean tissue. “I couldn’t agree more, Iris.” Iris nods a thank you as she dabs the corners of her eyes. “All you need is time. Time to process and heal this open wound. Together.” She demonstrates, interlocking her hands as she looks from Barry to Iris. 

“Together,” Barry repeats, nodding understandingly as he interlocks his hands with Iris. 

“Together,” Iris repeats softly, squeezing his hand affirmingly. 

“Good, now final questions. Barry?” He looks up at Dr. Finkel with expecting brows. “How did you feel when Iris told you she was pregnant? Then how did you feel when you found out she wasn’t? How did you process that information? And how have you been coping with the loss of another opportunity to have a child?” 

He wasn’t expecting this line of questions as his throat tightens and his heart sinks, burning at the pit of his stomach. “...” He opens his mouth but no words pass through but a shallow breath as his lips start to tremble. He twists and squeezes and kneads his hands as his foot starts to rapidly bounce. This is triggering for him as his eyes blur with tears. He desperately wants to suppress his feelings, desperately wanting to bury his emotions for Iris’s sake. 

“It’s quite alright Barry,” Finkel assures, worried that he’ll go into a panic state if she doesn’t reel him back in. “We’ll resume this session another time-”

Barry halts her closing remarks with a raise of his finger. “I’m gonna answer. I just need a minute.” He says raspily, throat hoarse from trying to fight back the tears that now spill down his face. He lowers his head and closes his eyes, letting sadness wash over him. He’s been concealing his pain, trying to be strong for Iris. But he can’t hold it in anymore as the dam of his heart breaks completely open. He then starts to sob, weeping into the palms of his hand. 

Iris gently wraps her arm loosely around his lower back, not allowing herself to watch him suffer alone as she whispers into his ear, saying… “Shh, it’s okay, babe.” She knows that her presence will calm him as she kisses the shell of his ear. His painful sadness causes silent tears to fall from her eyes as she presses her forehead into the side of his head. Barry is her hero but sometimes heroes need saving too. And she will not allow him to suffer though this heart-aching pain as she continues to comfort him, rubbing his back in circular motions before whispering… “Just say how your feeling, honey.” She strokes his head, smoothing down his hair. 

He removes his hand from his face though he keeps his head low as he nods solemnly. Iris gently grabs his chin, lifting his head as she dabs against his reddened face with her used tissue. “Thanks, babe.” He mumbles hoarsely. 

“I am so sorry if my questions upset you in any way, Barry.” Finkel apologies though she’s getting more than enough information just from watching Barry and Iris interact with such passion and gentleness. 

Barry waves off with a shake of his head. “No need for an apology. I was just um…” He sniffs. “I was just a little caught off guard I guess.” He licks his dry lips as he wipes the wetness from under his nose with the back of his sleeve. “All of it caught me off guard, honestly… We were broken up. I had moved on with someone else.” Iris gulps down her jealousy as she shifts closer to him, rubbing his thigh. “Then she showed up at my job and hours later I showed up at her apartment because we couldn’t stay away from each other. We started to argue and she just blurted it out accidentally.” He snorts though slow tears fall from his eyes while Iris stays clinging to his side. “All I remember is instantly panicking. I couldn’t even speak and yet I couldn’t have been happier…” He smiles sadly. “I had other obligations that were owed to someone else that night but Iris begged me to stay… And honestly, I wouldn’t have left her side if she asked. Iris calmed my soul that night. She catered to me. She held me.” He roughly rubs his teary eyes with the back of his knuckles. “But I didn’t sleep that night. I was up most hours just watching, watching her breath… It brought me so much joy just to be next to her… Just to be next to our baby.” 

He takes a ragged breath. “But like always my peace always turns into chaos…” He sighs defeatedly. “She wasn’t pregnant. There was never a baby.” Iris stuffs her lips into her mouth, forcing herself not to wail. “Iris spent months believing she was pregnant because of me…” He points to himself, digging his sharp finger into his chest. “Because of my lies, because of my terrible decisions. My mistakes were a ripple effect, leading us to a dark moment where the woman I love was carrying my burdens. My emotional baggage put an extreme amount of pressure and stress on her…” He roughly rakes his fingers through his hair. “All Iris ever wanted was a family and I couldn’t give her that one thing… and I’m afraid that I never will.” 

Hmm? Iris’s brows knit and her posture straightens. What does he mean? She wonders, confused yet unable to speak. Is he saying… She inwardly gasps, watching as his eyes beg for her forgiveness. But why? He’s fine. He’s healthy. He’s… She pauses as a nagging realization washes over her. She was never pregnant. She was never pregnant by him. Because he can’t…

He can’t look her in the eyes as he lowers his head in shame. “I’m sorry, Iris.” He cries. “It’s always been a nagging thought in the back of my mind. Before it didn’t bother me. All I ever needed was DJ…” He turns fully toward her, grabbing her hands. “But then I met you. So strikingly beautiful, captivating, and full of contagious happiness. You made it too easy for me to fall in love.” He catches her tears with his thumb. “You’ve also made it more than clear from the beginning about your wants for a family. And though I’ve always been apprehensive and fearful… I can honestly say that I now desperately want those same things. I want to marry you. I want to have babies with you. But I am not sure if I can.” His voice breaks as his puff eyes well up with tears. “DJ isn’t my son. I’ve never gotten any late texts or calls. And then you and I stopped using contraceptives so early on in our relationship but never…” His head lowers as his heart drops, realizing that his fear might be true. “Like I told you at the doctor’s office. Nothing is wrong with you. You’re perfect…  It’s me. I’m the problem and I am so sorry, Iris.” He apologizes with a trembling voice and tears staining his face.  

Iris rushes to say… “No, you don’t know that.” She objects firmly. “Look at me.” She grabs his chin, forcing him to look into her eyes. “You don’t know that. Okay?” 

He nods solemnly. 

“She’s right,” Finkel interjects. “You don’t know that for sure, Barry. But I suggest you find out soon.” Though Finkel suggests she hopes Barry takes it as a command. “You two are in love and communicate far better than most couples but regardless things will continue to pop up in your relationship. And it’s up to you BOTH to handle the situation head on TOGETHER.” Finkel demonstrates again, clasping her hands together.

Iris holds her hand out. “Together?” 

He interlocks their hands. “Together, always.”

THE SHOP

Barry leans forward, squinting his eyes with furrowed brows, checking to see if his eyes are deceiving him. He then swiftly turns his head to the left and right, wondering why they just parked in a busy shopping center. “Uhhh, Keyshia…” He drags confusingly. “This isn’t the grocery store.” He mumbles slowly, unsure if he should unfasten his seatbelt. 

Iris asked Barry last minute if he could pick up some ice from the store before the housewarming party started. But that was about twenty minutes ago since Keyshia insisted on going and driving. 

“I know that. We’re just making a little detour.” She turns off her car, removing the key from the ignition. “And look at you being all aware of your surroundings and shit.” She compliments, slapping his arm playfully. “Come on bestie I’ll be quick.” She slides out of the car, closing the door behind her before walking toward the storefront. 

“Ouch.” He winches quietly as he massages his arm. “Damn, she’s heavy-handed.” He murmurs before following suit. Barry squints again as he looks up at the fancy sign. “Cupid’s Closet?” He questions confusingly. “Are we…” He pauses, swiftly looking around the shopping center at the many people eyeing him, probably recognizing him. “Are we at a sex shop?” He whispers hotly with widened eyes. 

“Yeah,” Keyshia answers nonchalantly before walking toward the front door. But Barry quickly grabs her arm, stopping her from entering. “Damn, so rough. Is this how you manhandle, Iris.” She teases with a big grin as she wiggles her eyebrows. 

Barry’s astound. “What?! No, no…” He rushes though trying not to blush. “Keyshia, why are we here? The party probably has already started and Iris will kill me if we’re not back before the food is done.” He explains. 

“Correct, she will kill you. She ain’t touching me. I do the bitch hair.” She counters with an attitude. 

“Keyshia.” Barry reprimands her with his hands on his waist.

She sighs. “Fine. I may have looked through a couple of y’all gifts.” Keyshia quickly gestures for Barry not to interrupt her by making her hand into a mouth and closing it. “Wally got Iris a coffee machine. Your brother got you one of those fancy air diffusers. Rene, Shanice, and Keshia bought Iris a new printer and a little file organizer. Luke, sexy ass got you a new book rack for your den. Kelli, Tiffany, and Derek went three-way on some fancy wine dispenser thingy. And Aunt Cecile and Uncle Joe got you guys a gift basket filled with different cheeses and wines.” She spiels with an exhausted huff. “And I…” She lingers, avoiding eye contact as she fiddles with her hair. “I might have bought you guys a fake plant.” She mumbles out of the side of her mouth, causing Barry to chuckle as he shakes his head. “It isn’t funny, okay? Iris killed my cactus plant named Toto when she was twelve. That girl can’t keep a plant alive if her life depended on it.” 

Barry snorts, forcing his lips into his mouth. “You, had a cactus plant named Toto?” 

“Don’t judge me.” She points. “I am a plant enthusiast, okay. Now let’s go inside before I change my mind and not get y’all raggedy asses nothing.” She says smartly as she opens the door, walking into the dim-lighted establishment.

Barry follows behind her. “Why couldn’t you just get us a regular housewarming gift? Like dishes, or decorative towels.” He rattles off, cautious not to touch anything. “Better yet why didn’t you just come alone?” He can feel his phone vibrating in his pocket.

She huffs, rolling her neck. “Because there’s a discount for bringing new customers.” She glides her finger along the product, searching for a specific item.

“And you decided to bring me and not Iris?” He questions, noticing that he’s the only man in the store. 

“I would have brought Iris if she didn’t drag me here last week.” She mutters, sorting through the row of items. 

He blinks rapidly. “Wait, Iris brought you here? To this sex shop? For sex toys? To use on herself? Or did she want something partner friendly? Does it vibrate? Did she want me to use it on her? Did she pick something out already? Is it on a wishlist or something?” He rushes through his questions, waiting with bated breath for her to answer.

Her mouth falls open. “Ooo, I knew you were a freak.” Truth be told Iris only dragged Keyshia here for fun. She didn’t buy anything though her eyes kept lingering on one vibrating toy in particular. So, Keyshia is here to buy it for them… She knows all about their suffering sex life and maybe this little, powerful machine will liven things up. “You kinky motherfucka. You wearing a thong underneath those pants, nasty?” She teases, tugging on his belt as she laughs.

He flinches out of her grasp. “I do not…” And wouldn’t… Well, he doesn’t think he would. “Just get whatever Iris wanted so we can go.” He rushes before walking toward the exit, fishing for his phone. “I gotta take this call.” He raises the phone in the air before exiting the store.

Keyshia sucks her teeth. “He lying. He knows he’s a freak. Sucking toes and eating ass and shit…” She mutters under her breath as she continues her search. 

Barry answers his phone, knowing Iris is calling. “Hey, babe I’ll be home in a few-” 

“Babe? Well, that’s something I haven’t been on the receiving end of in years. I’m quite surprised that you even answered.” Barry rolls his eyes at the sophisticated voice on the other end of the phone.

“What do you want, Marlize? You never call unless you want something.” He leans against the building with the phone pressed to his ear. 

“You know me so well. I actually do want something. I want you to tell your girlfriend to keep my son off the internet.” 

He’s taken aback as his brow knit. “What are you talking about, Marlize?”

“I’m talking about Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and Facebook. She has him plastered all over the internet, forcing him to call her mommy. Really, Barry?” 

Barry lowers his head as he rolls his eyes closed. He had a feeling that Marlize would somehow conjure up feelings regarding someone doing a better job at mothering than she can. Though he must admit Marlize has every right to be jealous but she does not have a right to dictate who his son loves. “First of all nobody is forcing my son-”

“Our son.” She corrects smartly.

Barry huffs. “Is he our son?” He questions meanly. “Because last time I checked you haven’t seen him in months.” 

“That’s your doing. You’re the one stopping me from having access to him.” She argues. 

“I’m not stopping you from doing shit!” He shouts. “Aren’t you tired of having this same argument over and over again Marlize? You chose this, remember? You begged me to take him, granting me full custody. So, no… I will never let him spend the night with you, your husband, and his teenage kids. It’s not happening. It will never happen. You can come see him whenever you want under my supervision. That’s it.” 

She’s silent though he can hear her heavy breathing. “Don’t make me do this, Barry.” 

“Do what?” He answers huskily. 

She sighs. “Just tell Iris to stop posting my son and I better not hear a word about me at this little reunion you’re doing or there will be consequences.” 

He scoffs. “Are you threatening me?” 

“No, it’s a promise.” 

He laughs sinisterly “You must be out of your fucking mind if you think you’ll ever get my son. Not like you care about him anyway… You cared more about my dad’s death anniversary than the child you birthed. What kinda mother is that-” 

Marlize cuts him off. “One more word and we’ll see how much you really care about Scott’s son.” 

He bites down on his bottom lip, trying to conceal the anger burning inside of him. Marlize is a lot of things but she’s mostly a liar and a cheat. And her type will never get grace from him as he bitterly says… “Fuck you.” 

SIBLING RIVALRY 

“Let me guess… You still haven’t packed for New York yet.” He teases.

“Shut up.” Iris laughs, opening the door of the bedroom. “And no I have not but I can guarantee that Barry and I will not miss our morning departure.” She enunciates as she ushers her brother through the door.

His eyes expand. “Wow, so this is the master bedroom.” He’s impressed as he walks around the spacious room. 

Iris leans against the door frame with her arms folded. “Yup, this is where all the magic happened.” She jokes, giggling. 

“Eww, dude come on.” He scrunches his face in disgust while laughing. 

“What?” She laughs, raising her hands in defense. “You and Keyshia joke about sex all the time.”

“See, but Keyshia and I are joking about past anonymous lovers. I don’t wanna hear about my sister and my brother from another mister and misses getting it on. That’s just nasty.” He shivers in disgust though he’s just teasing. 

She rolls her eyes. “Whatever, I’m just glad you and Barry are getting along.”

He sobers. “Me too. He’s like a much older brother now.” He jokes but Iris doesn’t laugh.

“Wish I could say the same.” She gruffs before sitting on the ottoman stationed before the bed. Iris is happy, truly. But she is feeling a little indifferent about her old friend’s third absence. And she’s sure Linda Park has yet another excuse. 

He snorts awkwardly. “Um, you won’t believe this but Linda accidentally-” 

Iris raises her hand, stopping him. “It’s fine. I’m sure she didn’t miss my housewarming on purpose and sends her love, right?” She questions sweetly, though she clenches her jaw tight. 

“Right, of course,” He rushes to assure her as he takes a seat next to her. “But hey, I’m here.” He places his hand on his chest with sincere intent. “And I’ve missed you, Ann.” His sister may not like Linda’s absences and his excuses but it’s all for the betterment of her well-being. 

The corners of her mouth tug upward. “I missed you too baby brother.” She pokes his stomach. 

Wally snorts before sobering again. “I’m sorry about the pregnancy thing. That should have never happened. I mean out of all the people in the world…” He lowers his head in shame. “It just should have never happened to you.” Wally knows better than anyone how much motherhood means to Iris. It’s all she’s ever wanted and still does not have. But he does… Her best friend and brother are living her dream. How is he supposed to tell her? How will he beg for her empathy? 

“Thanks,” She smiles weakly. “I didn’t have a baby but hey, I got a son.” Iris will take motherhood in any form. But she will still pray for the chance to create life with the only man she’ll ever love. 

“Wow,” He utters in disbelief. “My sister is a mother. Fuck, I’m an uncle. Damn, mom and dad are grandparents and grandma is now great-grandma.” He rambles in total shock as his eyes widened. His sister is a mother and soon their roles will reverse. 

“I know. It is crazy, right.” She sighs, happily. “And you should see dad, Wall. He is nothing like how he was with us.” She expresses. “Dad lets DJ grill with him.”

Wally gasp. “What?! Dad never let us go near that thing.” 

“I know…” She agrees. “He says DJ is his grill master partner.” She uses air quotes. “Dad lets DJ eat in the living room. DJ got to pick the film for movie night three weeks in a row. Dad allows DJ to sit in his recliner. Oh, and he even called off work early just to watch the football game with DJ. 

His mouth hangs open. “No…” 

She nods. “Mhmm, and that’s not even the crazy part…” Iris checks the door, making sure her dad doesn’t randomly pop up, knowing he’ll lie about the incident. “Last week we had family game night and Jenna and DJ were playing in the living room.” Iris takes another exaggerated peek at the door. “Tell me why DJ accidentally bumped into dad’s Melvin & The Blue Notes collection and Joe West didn’t even bat an eye.” 

“What?!” He exclaims as his eyes and mouth expand. “I’m dead.” He falls against the bed, acting as if he passed out.

Iris laughs hysterically. “I damn near died too when it happened. I almost voluntarily asked for an ass-whooping just to spare my kid.” She jokes, causing her brother to cackle uncontrollably. 

“Not Joseph Bernard No Nonsense West getting soft? I remember I was grounded for three weeks just for standing near his blues collection.” He exclaims bewilderedly. 

Iris catches her breath before saying… “Dad has changed bro. He is now officially a grandpa and spoils DJ rotten with loose change and candy. Oh, and don’t let me get started on how he treats Barry like the perfect child he never had.” She scoffs, rolling her eyes though she secretly enjoys their new dynamic.  

“Damn, everything is moving so fast.” Iris agrees with a nod. “Next thing you know I’ll be a dad.” He laughs awkwardly. 

“Wally, you're always touring and traveling nonstop. Since when did you want to stop and be a dad.” She questions sarcastically as her brows furrow. 

What has gotten into her brother? Wally has never been the settling-down type. She’s honestly shocked that Linda and Wally have lasted this long, seeing as they’re both drifters. 

“I don’t know…” He shrugs. “It’s just Linda and I have been talking-”

“About what?” She questions as she holds her breath though not knowing why. 

Wally looks into his sister’s eyes and knows she isn’t ready. Too many people in their family have broken Iris’s heart or trust but he has too much respect for her to do the same. Lying is no better but it’s what’s best. “Moving in together,” Wally responds as Iris exhales. “I mean she’s been searching for a new place anyways after you didn’t renew the lease of the old apartment. So, I thought what the hell, we've been together almost a year… Might as well try and live together.” 

Iris nods, taking in all the information. “Okay, but what about finishing your last semester at LCU? Classes have already started for the spring. Unless you want to take summer classes.” 

He sighs. “I dropped out.” 

“Wally,” She stresses. 

He stands abruptly. “I know. I know…” He whines. “Your baby brother fucked up. I messed up, Iris. But please, please don’t be disappointed in me.” He pleads, knowing that she will eventually be disappointed and may even hate him. 

Iris stands, grabbing his hands. “I will never be disappointed in you. I’m not mom, Wally. I’ll support you no matter what.” 

He nods, solemnly. “Thank you-”

“But you’re lying to me…” She cuts him off. 

He gulps. “I could never lie to you, Iris.” He says seriously though it’s breaking his heart. “Linda and I just want to be together. She has my full attention. She needs me…” He explains then quickly backtracks, rephrasing his sentence… “We need each other. We’re in love… We already found an apartment close to CCU. That’s where I’ll be enrolling this summer. And I already got a part-time job working for Uncle Nino in his shop.” 

Iris silently studies her brother. His anxious disposition has her questioning his every word. He’s lying. But about what? What could he possibly be hiding from her? “Wally, I love you and I know you all too well. You don’t think that I don’t know when you’re lonely, depressed, or lost.” She grabs the back of his neck, pulling him into a tight embrace. 

She continues. “You think I wouldn’t know when you’ve done something wrong. When you’ve done something irreversible that will change your life forever.” She shuts her eyes tight, praying that he hasn’t… That he couldn’t… “I’m your sister. I’m your protector. You should never feel like you have to protect yourself from me…” She pauses, gulping down tears. “I’ve always supported you, Wally. I’ve always pushed you to do things that I been too afraid to do myself.” She pulls back, looking deep into his eyes. 

“So, tell me.” She begs. “Help me understand.” She pleads. “What are you hiding from me?” She whispers, watching as a single tear falls from his face. 

He licks his lips, breathing ragged. “Iris, Linda, and I…”

“Mommy,” DJ calls as he burst through the room. He clumsily runs into Iris’ side with Zoë roaming behind him. “I have to tell you something.” He whispers excitingly.

Iris laughs. “Okay, but first apologize to Uncle Wally for interrupting.” She orders softly. 

“Sorry,” He whines with a pout.

“Awe, it’s alright little Don.” Wally ruffles his little nephew’s curls. “I got the same issue of being the most important character in everyone’s world too.” He jokes but only Iris gets it as she rolls her eyes. 

DJ scratches the back of his neck. “Okay,”

“What did you wanna say, honey?” Iris asks while wiping crumbs off of his mouth. Seems that her father has been sneaking her child some dessert, causing Iris to wonder if leaving DJ with her parents for a few days will backfire into multiple dentist appointments. 

“Daddy just got home and he’s helping grandma into your office. And she told me to tell you that she would like to chat…” He cups his hands over his mouth. “In privates.” He drags while whispering. 

“Great,” She forces a smile. “Tell her I would love to and I will be right down.” She cringes. 

“Okay, come on Zoë.” He commands as he bounces out of the room with the dog prancing behind him. 

Iris turns to her brother. “Sorry, I gotta talk to Barry’s mother real quick but I’ll be right back-”

“No, need.” He waves off. “This is your day. We’ll talk later… Maybe after the reunion when the dust settles.” He suggests, thankful for his little nephew’s interruption. He honestly could have ruined his sister’s special day. She’ll inevitably be mad, definitely jealous. But he rather her hate him later than now. 

“Okay, I’ll be downstairs.” She kisses his cheek platonically before heading towards the door.

“Alright, I’m gonna go freshen up. You don’t mind if I use your bathroom?” He thumbs towards the restroom. 

“I don’t mind. Go ahead.” She motions with her hand before exiting the room with the same thought on her mind… What is he hiding?

   THE HOUSEWARMING

“Keyshia, I missed you.” Iris rushes down the stairs, hugging her cousin from behind and squeezing tight. Iris knows her cousin despises random outbursts of affection. This is payback for forcing her housewarming to start an hour behind schedule for just a couple of bags of ice. Besides, Iris needs to stall. She does not want to talk to mother dearest. 

Her shoulders slump as she rolls her eyes. “Iris, girl…” She complains, shimmying out of her cousin’s embrace. “You're in my space. You're smothering me while I’m trying to set the table for your dinner.” She exaggerates, placing silverware on the squared table. 

Iris gawks. “Sorry, gosh… Why are you so uptight? Not getting any dick, girl?” Iris teases, knowing her cousin will go on for hours just to refute an outlandish remark. Which will just give Iris more time to stall. 

“Pssh, don’t worry about me… I get plenty of dick.” She voices with an attitude. “Matter of fact I got two dicks. One outside and one at home with his momma, waiting on my call. Shit, you talking about me but got in-house dick and ain’t getting none on the regular. Mmm, how sad.” She mopes, sticking her bottom lip out. 

Iris gasps. “Well, I’ll have you know that I am feeling quite chipper, seeing as I just got some this morning in the shower. Mmm, steamy hot shower with two bodies pressed up against each other, making sweet, passionate love… Oh, and she, her, me…” She points to herself. “Came twice.” She smirks. 

Keyshia purses her lips. “Oooo, having sex before the baby wakes up. That takes dedication, coffee, and a well-balanced breakfast. I’m impressed, cousin. Seems like you two don’t need my little present after all.” She teases. 

She squints. “What present?”

“Not telling you. It’s a surprise.” It’s a surprise that might not be appropriate for this family-friendly setting. “That you might wanna open once everyone leaves. But just know…” Keyshia gets into Iris’s personal space, whispering. “Miss thang is little yet powerful and will not disappoint.” She grins wide. 

Iris’ eyes widened. She then grabs her cousin by the elbow, forcing the silverware to fall on the table before pulling her toward the living room, away from her guest outside. “Keyshia, did you buy me a vibrator?” She yells in a whisper. 

“Well, yeah.” She shrugs innocently, blinking twice. 

“Oh, my god…” Iris sighs.

“Trust me I thought it would be weird too but Barry and I just clicked. He’s like a second best friend. He gets me. He understands me.” She explains with her hand over her heart. “And boy did we have a ball in that little sex shop. I bought some things… He bought a couple of things.” She wiggles her eyebrows. 

“You took my man to a sex shop.” Iris’s voice is monotone though her face is in disbelief. 

“Yes, sure did. It was entertaining and educational. We learned so much, being immersed in the realms of erotic intimacy and sensuality. The mini-seminar was amazing… Just amazing.” She sighs dramatically. 

Iris stares at her cousin, unmoved and speechless. “....” 

“Yeah, and you’ll be speechless just like that when in-house dick shows you some of his new tricks.” She laughs. 

Wally jogs down the steps, overhearing the girl’s conversation. “Eww, stop having inappropriate conversations. My ears…” He teases. 

“AHAHA.” Iris sarcastically laughs, rolling her eyes.

Keyshia laughs loudly. “Yeah, that’s so funny, Wallace. Now, where’s Linda? Heffa couldn’t come to her best friend’s housewarming, hmm?” 

He gulps. “Linda, see Linda, she’s um…” He swallows. “Well, there is a perfect excuse for her absence.” He chuckles awkwardly. “She’s hmmm…” He lingers, looking up at the ceiling as he taps his chin. 

“Just shut up and go outside,” Iris commands, pointing toward the backyard.

“Yeah, take your lying ass outside with the kids and old folks.” Keyshia flings her hand toward the sliding door, watching as her cousin rushes through it. “Girl, that little boy is hiding something.” She can easily tell. Her little cousin isn’t much of a liar. He’s a drifter, never staying in one place for too long. Yet he’s been in Central City with Linda for months. Something real fishy is going on. She just hopes that whatever it is doesn’t affect their family dynamic. 

“Yeah, who you tellin’?” She gruffs, folding her hand over her chest. Then a weird feeling washes over her, forcing a nagging question to spill out of her mouth. “Do you think she’s pregnant?” Iris holds her breath. 

“Linda…” She questions with knitted brows. “Nah, she’s ways too selfish. Linda can hardly take care of herself. Besides, no one in our group wants children except for you and Tiff.” She stresses. “Linda isn’t pregnant. She would never do that to you.” She hopes. Linda being pregnant before Iris would be an absolute horror. Her cousin would never recover. And it will ultimately change the dynamic of Linda and Iris’s friendship forever. 

“You right.” She exhales. Iris’s cousin always seems to sound right. Even when she’s wrong. Iris just isn’t capable of letting Keyshia’s answer suffice. “What do you think it is then… I don’t understand, what is she hiding?” 

Keyshia hates seeing the hurt in her cousin’s eyes. Linda’s absence is bothering Iris. They are all friends but Linda and Iris have a bond that none could ever explain. Keyshia is pissed and frustrated that Linda has been an unavailable friend yet she wants to be a part of the family. Linda Park has some big issues on her hands if she thinks she can date her cousin and ignore the other. So, again what is she hiding? “Honesty, don’t know and don’t care and you shouldn’t either.” Her tone is serious as Iris listens intently. “You’re letting all this outside noise interfere with your housewarming. Francine, Linda, Nora, you’re letting all that ruin your special day.” Keyshia places her hands on Iris’s shoulders. “I know this is gonna sound mean but… Fuck Linda.” Iris is taken aback, covering her reaction with a hand over her mouth. “Fuck Linda, Wally, and their lies. Fuck Francine and her abusive behavior. And fuck those nerves that are preventing you from talking to that kind-faced redhead woman in your office.” She stresses with a bit of teasing. 

Iris sobers. “How long have you noticed me stalling?” 

“Since you startled me from behind.” She says matter of factly. “And I am so glad that you took up writing and not acting because the performance was mid.” She laughs. 

“Shut up.” She chuckles.

“But seriously Iris. For once let things be about you.” Her cousin, Iris west has never been selfish. Iris is always doing more for others, more than she’s ever done for herself. But this time Iris has found someone that wants nothing but the best for her. He loves her. His son loves her. This is the life Iris West has always dreamed of having and Keyshia will not allow Iris’s pesky doubt to mess it up. “Let that kind-faced redheaded lady say whatever she wants but remember… She’s in your house. Respects your elders but also make your opinions known.” She loops her arm through Iris’s, walking toward the room with laughter floating out of it. Iris cringes as she drags her feet toward the room. “Dinner will be starting soon anyways. Just speak your peace and be out.” Keyshia whispers out of the side of her mouth as they enter the room. 

Cisco notices Iris first as he stands from the sofa. “Iris hey, so good to see you.” He greets her, hugging her. 

“Hey, you too.” She hugs him back. “Haven’t seen you in forever.” 

“I know right.” He pulls back, holding onto her hands. 

“So where is this new girlfriend I’m hearing so much about?” She questions, playfully bumping his arm. 

“Um, she couldn’t make it today. But you’ll see her at the reunion. I’ll remember to introduce you.” Cisco Ramon has found the one, again. Kamilla Hwang is his perfect match. Though he still carries lingering feelings for Gypsy that romance has sailed. “So when are you guys leaving? Tonight or…” He questions, pointing from Iris to Barry, who leans against Iris’s desk with his arms folded. 

“Leaving tomorrow morning.” He answers though his eyes follow Iris’s movements, watching as she greets Luna. His girlfriend looks absolutely gorgeous. From her simple cocktail dress, down to her shiny stiletto heels. Man, how did he get so lucky? 

Keyshia casually walks over to Barry, whispering…“Pick your bottom lip up. You’re drooling bestie.” Damn, this boy is in love. 

“Sorry, I can’t help it sometimes.” He whispers back out of the side of his mouth without once taking his eyes off of Iris. 

Barry hates to use this phrase but things have been pretty perfect. Yeah, he still works a lot. And yes, Iris is still kinda struggling with her writing. But their relationship and their family are perfect. He couldn’t ask for much else. Well, except for his little surprise to go off without a hitch once they land in New York.

Iris pulls away from Luna’s embrace. “No need to thank me. We’re all family here.” Family might be a stretch but it sounds nice. “I just wish Dante could have made it.” 

Luna sighs. “Yeah, he’s always working… But I promise he will make the engagement party. When are you popping the questions again, Mijo? Next month?” She teases, winking at Barry on the other side of the room. Luna loves seeing all her sons happy, Barry especially. He’s come so far from his multiple setbacks and failures. But he has ended up in the right place with the right person. Someone who doesn’t just love him but also respects him. 

“Mmm,” Barry coughs, surprised by Luna’s remarks.

“I know that’s right,” Keyshia says proudly.

Cisco only laughs, watching his brother turn red. 

Nora tenses, sitting silently by her son, wondering how her interaction with Iris will play out. 

Iris catches onto Luna’s teasing way, wanting to play along. “Engagement…” She questions, turning toward Barry. “We’ve never talked about getting engaged this soon.” Iris walks up to him, smoothing out the wrinkles of his sweater. “Something you’ve been hiding, honey?” Her tone is light and sophisticated as she leans her head slightly to the left.

Luna wants to add more fuel to the fire but stays silent, liking that Iris is adapting to the family teasing and banter.

Cisco sits, covering his mouth to hide his laughter. 

Keyshia takes a couple of steps back, enjoying whatever is happening. 

Nora on the other hand hates the teasing. She’s also hating that Iris has yet to greet her. 

Barry gulps. “Pssh, no…” He answers, chuckling nervously. 

“Oh, so you don’t want to get married?” She leans her head to the other side. 

“Yes!” He shouts excitingly. Then suddenly gets confused. “I mean no…”

“No…” Iris questions, folding her arms over her chest. 

“I mean yes. Yes, of course, we will get married. Just not at this moment…” He lingers, searching for words to put together. 

“Barry,” Luna calls. “She’s teasing…” Luna starts to cackle. 

Cisco and Keyshia burst into laughter while Nora continues to watch quietly, noticing that no one is paying much attention to her. 

Barry falls into Iris’s embrace, wrapping his arms around her neck as he hides his face. “Ughh, don’t do that.” He whines. “You all should know that Iris’s dad had her in training since she was ten. I was scared for my life.” He jokes, wiping the sweat from his forehead. 

Iris rubs his back. “I’m sorry, baby.” 

“Don’t worry. I’m gonna you back.” He whispers. 

“But seriously, Barry. You have to marry this one. I like her.” Luna expresses with a point. 

“Will do…” He responds, wrapping his arm loosely around Iris’s hip.

“Ma is two for two.” Cisco high-fives his mother. “She was just teasing him about baby names before you two walked in.” 

“Awe, really?” She looks up at Barry.

“Yeah, we were just talking about how many times my name was changed as a baby. And Luna started joking, saying how much more popular I would have been if my parents stuck with the name Barrington instead of letting my grandfather name me.” He explains. 

“Barrington…” She lets the name roll off her tongue. It’s quite similar to Bartholomew and yet so different. “I like it.” 

He pulls her closer to his side. “Yeah?” 

She nods bashfully, teeth scraping her bottom lip.  

Keyshia thinks her cousin and future husband are so cute she could just throw up. She wants to bask in the romance of newfound love but the pretty-faced redhead is turning redder than her hair. “Awe shit…” She mutters under her breath, knowing this lady is seconds from exploding in three, two, one…

“Can, Iris, and I have the room.” She interjects, projecting her voice. “Please.” It’s more of a command than a question though her lips spread into a thin smile. 

“Sure…” Cisco stands first, casually walking out of the room. He’s oblivious to the tension between the two most important women in his brother’s life. 

Luna looks at Nora knowing. Nora bows her head, promising that she’ll be respectful. “I’ll leave you too to it then.” Luna follows her son out of the room. 

Barry can feel the heat and panic radiating off of Iris’s body. “You’ll be fine.” He squeezes her hip and kisses her forehead. “I promise…” He walks toward the door, pulling Keyshia with him by the arm.

“Uhn uhn, this my cousin’s house. I’m not leaving unless she wants me to.” She says matter of factly, excited to watch this long overdue battle. 

“It’s fine Keyshia. This won’t be long.” She assures with a confident smile. 

Barry is a little uneasy but trusts that this conversation will go well.

Keyshia mopes, reluctantly walking out of the room behind Barry.  

“So…” Iris rounds her desk, sitting in her chair. “I’m here. What do you want to discuss Mrs. Allen?” She says with faux politeness. Her posture is of a businesswoman. Her shoulders squared, eyebrows arched and fingers intertwined on her desk. 

“Call me Nora…” She twists the wheel of her chair to face Iris. 

“No…” She drags, shaking her head. “I think Mrs. Allen is a clear depiction of where we stand.” Nora has never been rude to Iris. At least not to her face…

Nora sighs. “I’m sorry, Iris.” 

“Thanks…” She smiles politely before standing from her seat. “Should I call Barry to help you into the dining area?” 

Nora reaches across the desk, grasping Iris’s wrist. “Wait, Iris…” She breathes. Iris slowly falls back into her seat, tongue roaming her cheek as she avoids eye contact. “Please accept my apology.”

Iris pulls her hand out of Nora’s grasp. “Do you even know why you're apologizing? Or did Barry and Luna suggest that it was wise for you to express forgiveness?” 

“Yes, they did advise.” Iris scoffs. “But-”

“Just keep it.” Iris cuts her off. “Keep your phony apology. Because we both know you don’t mean it.” Nora purses her lips. “Honestly, Nora did you truly believe that all the terrible things you’ve said about me wouldn’t get back to me?” She questions though not wanting Nora to say a word until she’s finished. “Donovan is my son now. Everything you say he repeats back to me.” Though Nora’s Christmas gesture was nice, helping DJ with his letter. It still came with backhanded compliments and negative rhetoric. Donovan may be young but he’s always listening and repeating what he hears. “As well as Barry… He might not tell me everything you say now since I was the one pushing him to talk to you during the holidays. But I know your constant, overbearing judgment has not stopped.” She stresses, determined to speak her truth without any interruptions. 

Iris sighs. “Honestly Nora, why don’t you like me? What have I done?” Nora swallows harshly as she lowers her head. “Do I not cook or clean enough for you? Do I work too much? Am I not submissive enough? Am I not polished enough to your liking? Am I not the right shade of color? Am I too aggressive, too hardened, or too strong?” She expresses with vigor. “Do I not mother good enough for you? Am I not a good enough example? Am I not good enough for your son? Do I not love him enough or the way you see fit?” She pauses, not waiting for an answer but for an honest reaction. But Nora is silent and this frustrates Iris. “Tell me? Why don’t you like me? Why am I not good enough? Aren’t I better than his past?” 

“You aren’t.” She answers, causing Iris to pause. “You are much worse.” Iris hardens as her shoulders tighten and her jaw clenches. “Barry’s love for you is far greater than his love ever was for Marlize. His love for you is only a percentage less than the love he has for his son. And that terrifies me, Iris.” 

Nora breathes harshly. “Donovan’s mother was Barry’s everything. His one and only as he use to say…” She snorts at the ridiculousness. “That is until we found out she was a pathological liar and a cheat-”

“I am nothing like her,” Iris stresses, cutting Nora off.

“No…” She pauses for dramatic effect. “But you have the potential to be.” Nora means no harm. She’s just fearful. She knows her son’s demon and is scared that if this newfound love fails he’ll never recover. “Barry doesn’t know this but… Marlize told me the truth last year and it has been the reason why we argue constantly. She and DJ’s biological father weren’t having an ongoing affair.” 

“Yes, they were. I caught them.” Iris counter-smartly. 

“DJ’s father may have been having an affair, cheating on you… But Marlize met him first.” 

Iris’s brows furrow. “What do you mean?” 

“Marlize and your ex were dating. She was with him way before Barry was even in the picture.” 

Iris is taken aback. She and Scott were together for six years… But Marlize and Barry were only together about three or four. Marlize is five years older than her and Scott is two years older. The math makes sense. The timeline for Iris’s relationship with Scott does not change. He was still having an ongoing affair with Marlize and other women. But Marlize wasn’t having an affair on Barry? 

“Marlize broke up with him a few weeks after meeting Barry. They fell fast and were so in love. At the time she was the best thing that ever happened to him… Sadly, her parents did not have the same sentiment. They did not approve, saying Barry’s inabilities will hold Marlize back as well as his financial status.” She remembers off of the top of her head.  

Weirdly enough Iris kinda empathizes with Malize a little. Iris still does not condone her past actions. But she understands, seeing as Marlize’s parents are familiar with some of the same teachings as her mother’s 

Nora continues. “Of course, she chose him, making the honorable choice though she ended up resenting him for it…” Nora places her clasped hands on the desk. “Marlize didn’t work, she wasn’t so keen on manual labor. She hated school, dropping out several times. She had the luxury of being irresponsible because her parents paid for everything… But they stopped once she made that noble choice and instantly regretted it when things got a little tough.” Iris listens intently though wishes she wasn’t so intrigued. 

“Barry was working as a TA and going for his masters and taking care of me. So of course, the arguing began. It went from little petty disagreements to non-stop fighting. Marlize then suggested they take a break and Barry agreed reluctantly…” She shakes her head in disapproval. “They were only apart for two weeks… It took her only weeks to defile her character and break my son’s heart.”  

“Why are you telling me this…” She breathes. “I’m sure you don’t want me repeating this to Barry.” 

“Heaven no.” Nora wouldn’t dare subject him to more damage than he can handle. “I tell you this information about Marlize because she blindsided me. She too was great, smart, and beautiful. We all loved her. But she made a choice that fractured this family. Luckily, Barry finally is himself again. He’s smiling, he’s laughing, and he’s loving wholeheartedly. I contribute all that to you…” She says seriously, looking right into Iris’ eyes. “Iris, you make him better. He now depends on you for happiness and that frightens me.” 

Iris must agree that she’s right but is that so wrong? 

 “I’m sure you know Barry’s an alcoholic. He’s been drinking for fifteen years, starting when he was twelve.” Iris gulps as her heart sinks. “Though miraculously he’s been sober for months now. But I know he didn’t stop for the betterment of his health. He stops for you… He chose you. He trusts you. He loves you even more than his mother.” She expresses. “So, please accept my sincerest apologies for not presenting myself in the best light. My comments and passive-aggressiveness were purely out of fear. You have to understand my apprehensiveness. Barry was once broken before…” Nora knows without a doubt that if this relationship fails her son will relapse. He will also collapse, toppling over everything good, including his son. And she’ll have the impossible task of breaking her son’s fall to save her grandson. “Promise me you’ll never break his heart. Promise, you’ll never stop loving him.” 

“I can’t…” Iris says plainly. “I accept your apology. However, the liberty to demand requests is off-limits to you. We will grow from this and learn to love each other but you will never be owed any commitments from me. So, I can not nor will I ever promise you anything…” Nora nods solemnly, accepting Iris’s response. “Though I will assure you that I will always love your son. You just have to be okay with however that love looks.” 

“Okay, okay…” Nora can accept that. It’s not a promise but it’s going to have to be enough for now. 

THE DINNER

He sits at the head of the table, watching. His lips spread into a warm smile as he admires his family. All the laughter. All the smiles. All the love. He’s a proud father. He’s also an elated grandfather. His oldest has a son. Some months ago he believed he was too young to be a grandfather. He believes his daughter was too young to start a family. He also believed that his precious daughter deserved nothing less than perfection. 

Well, perfection is unattainable. His daughter’s life will always be flawed. But she has something far better than perfection. Of course, love and happiness… But also she has peace and grace. And he is so honored to be Iris’ father and Donovan’s grandfather. 

Cecile nudges his arm. “You wanna say something don’t you?” She whispers with a teasing smirk.

He nods, embarrassed that his wife caught him staring. 

“Go ahead and speak your piece, Pops.” Cecile teases. 

Joe rolls his eyes, laughing. He then stands with a knife in one hand and a flute in the other. He lightly taps his knife against the glass, grasping everyone’s attention. “Excuse me, everyone. I would like to say a few words before we feast over this delicious dinner handcrafted by my lovely wife, Cecile.” He squeezes her shoulder, looking down at her lovingly. 

“Awe, that’s so sweet.” Shanice comments.

“Yeah, it is,” Tiffany responds, placing her hand on top of her husband’s. 

“Keep it short Uncle Joe.” Keyshia jokes, making everyone chuckle. 

“Will do. I’ll keep it as short as your attendance at church.” He counters with a smart remark. 

“Ha!” Wally laughs loudly, pointing at Keyshia. 

“Shut up.” She mumbles, smacking her cousin’s hand. 

“And even shorter than Wally’s attendance… Well, his attendance anywhere.” He jokes again. 

Cecile’s mouth drops, not wanting to laugh.

Barry blinks rapidly from the other end of the table and Iris purses her lips in approval. 

Cisco cups his hands around his mouth, yelling. “Roasted.” 

“Haha!” Keyshia laughs in Wally’s ear. 

“At least I came to the dinner,” Wally grumbles under his breath.

“Anyways, just wants to say a few words about home. Home is more than this…” He gestures, flinging his hands about. “Home is more than bricks and mortar. It’s a feeling. It’s what we are all feeling right now at this table.” Joe scans the many faces along the large table. “Feeling safe. Feeling refuge and peace. Feeling loved. So much love… And it’s radiating off of you two.” He smiles at Barry and Iris fondly. “Thank you, baby girl, for proving me wrong. And thank you, son, for just being her home. Thank you both for showing those who don’t understand so much grace.” 

Barry nods with a timid grin. 

Iris’s lips tug upward into a tight smile, heart filling with gratitude.  

Nora’s heart warms with renewed spirits as she lifts her glass, cheering. “To Barry and Iris…”

“To Barry and Iris.” Everyone repeats with cheer and applause. 

“To us…” Barry murmurs with a charming smile as he clinks his glass against hers. 

“To us…” Iris repeats then press her lips against his. 

“Hey, what about me?” DJ whines, wanting to be involved in the speech.

“Right,” Joe raises his glass again. “And also let’s toast to the new addition of the West family. The first grandchild, my grandson, Donovan Henry Allen the second.” 

“To DJ…” Everyone cheers even louder.

“To our son.” Iris wraps an arm around his torso, squeezing him tight.

“To our beautiful boy.” Barry kisses his cheek and Iris kisses the other. 

Donovan smiles brightly, feeling the warmth and love from his parents. And also feeling the presence of home. 

THE NIGHT BEFORE DEPARTURE

Barry pulls the covers over his son’s body, tucking him in. “You sure about staying with Grandma Cecile and Poppa Joe?” He’s feeling a little apprehensive about this trip. Love Island was only hours away but New York is miles away. So, Barry has separation anxiety. What can he say? He loves his kid. 

“Yes, I’m excited.” He answers surly with a bright smile. “Poppa Joe says I’m going to work with him. I’ll be captain of the police station and I also get to wear a badge.” He explains with stars in his eyes. 

Donovan is bursting through the seam with excitement. He’ll be inside a real police station with real cops. He’ll also get to ride around in a police mobile. He’s so thrilled he can barely contain himself.

“Hopefully you’ll have a better time than I did,” Barry mutters, remembering the overbearing Chester and the high-speed chase. He’s still randomly having flashbacks of the jockstrap chafing against his balls. 

“Hmm?” DJ’s brows raise in question. 

Barry waves off. “Nothing, nothing…” He then softens as he sits on the edge of the bed. “Daddy’s just gonna miss you baby.” Barry doesn’t want to leave his son again. He’s never been this far away from his little guy. 

“I’m gonna miss you too daddy,” DJ responds though he’s too delighted to spend time with his grandparents and Jenna that the revelation hasn’t set in yet. 

Barry caresses his son dimpled cheeks. “Alright, well I’ll let you get some sleep. We have an early day tomorrow. Do you want the television on?”

“Yes, please. Come here, Zoë.” He pats the space beside him, watching as the little dog hops onto the bed, curling until she’s comfortable enough to lie. 

“Okay,” Barry stands turning on the timed tv. “I love you, beautiful boy.” He leans over and kisses both of his son’s cheeks and forehead. 

“I love you too daddy.” He giggles before turning onto his side. 

Barry turns off the lights before gently closing the door, whispering. “Goodnight son.” He then strolls down the hallways, turning off all the lights as he walks toward the master bedroom. He opens the door, saying… “Hey, I put DJ to bed.” 

Iris’s head suddenly snaps up from her computer screen. Her eyes widened as roughly put her finger over her lips. “Babe, on the phone.” She mouths

He quickly covers his mouth. “Sorry,” He whispers cringingly with his shoulder to his neck as he gently closes the door behind him. 

“My apologies Star. Continue…” Iris places the phone on speaker so she can type down the important information on her laptop. 

“Wait, is that the handsome, Barry Allen?” 

Barry rolls his eyes at the sound of the annoying sophisticated voice of Star Koriand'r on the receiving end of the phone. Barry has nothing against this woman. She’s great though she can also be quite weird. 

“Yes, it is…” Iris answers politely though she gives Barry a look. 

“Sorry,” He mouths, emphasizing his apology before walking to the bathroom for his nightly routine. 

“So, how is that going? Everything good?” 

“Everything is great,” Iris responds truthfully, crossing her feet at the ankle with her back against the headboard.

“Even better. How was the housewarming?” She inquires, not that she cares but the media does. 

“Amazing, thanks for the flowers by the way. The flowers are gorgeous.” Iris received blooming flowers at her front door. There was no card or note. It was anonymous but Iris doesn’t know anyone who would spend over a hundred dollars on a custom-made bouquet except Star. 

“Oh, those were from Dominic. He thought it would be nice to express gratitude for our new clients. Hope you like them.” 

“Yup, of course,” She lies. Great, now she has to throw them away. 

“Anyways, did your mother ever get to look over the contract?” 

Barry walks back into the bedroom in his pajamas. He then climbs into the bed under the cover, wrapping his arm around her waist with his face pressed into her backside. 

“Yes…” Iris rolls her eyes. Her boyfriend is such a baby. Yet she finds herself lifting his shirt as she rubs his back. “Let me find the email.” She lingers, opening the email with one hand while the other tends to her boyfriend. “We found a few things that need changing… When is the meeting with the executives again? 

“Iris, I am your publicist, not your assistant,” Star explains while Iris gruffs under her breath. “Publicist makes you look good. The assistant makes sure you are good.”

He rolls his eyes. “Publicist makes you look good. The assistant makes sure you are good.” Barry mimics silently, causing Iris to laugh as she covers her mouth.

“Of course, Star. I’ll make sure to hire one.” She responds smartly. Remember Iris, she is not your friend. You are her client. You hired her services. 

“Hm, how about Dominic? He’s always looking for some extra work.” She suggests though instantly thinks against it since their last conversation where he confessed his true feelings for Ms. West.

Barry snaps up with a serious look on his face. He then grabs the phone. “Hey, Star we’re gonna have to call you back. Yeah, Iris and I are so busy packing right now. You know we have an early flight and early check-in. Thank you for the unwanted recommendation though. We’ll take it with a grain of salt. Goodnight.” He hangs up, tossing the phone on the bed.

Iris gawks. “Babe…” 

He shrugs nonchalantly. “Don’t care. She needs to mind the business we pay her to mind.” 

Iris laughs as her cheeks grow hot with arousal. “You’ve never been sexier.” 

He licks his lips, charmingly saying. “I know…” 

There’s a moment of silence between them as their eyes lock hotly. He leans in first, kissing her lips. He then crowds her, pressing her body into the mattress as he lays on top of her. “Mmm,” He moans into her mouth at the feel of her hands roaming through his hair. He’s intoxicated by her scent, by her kisses as he grinds his pelvis against hers.

Iris’s legs instantly open as her feet graze his legs. Her heart starts to race at the feel of their tongue mingling together and the weight of his chest pressed against her, causing her nipples to harden. “Barry…” She whines a giggle as he trails kisses down to her sweet spot and his hands ride up her oversized t-shirt. 

Iris loves when he kisses her special spot, knowing it’ll get her in the mood. But sadly, that’s when she remembers… “Babe, we can’t get caught up again. We have to pack.” 

“Ughh,” He groans, head falling into the crook of her neck. “I rather sleep.” He rolls off her and onto his side. “We can just pack tomorrow.” He mumbles.

Iris sits up. “You said the same thing this morning, remember?” 

“Hm, don’t recall.” He pulls the covers over his head, hiding from the mundane responsibility. 

“You don’t recall seducing me into the shower instead of preparing for our trip that is less than thirteen hours away.” She pokes his side, finger digging into his ribs. 

“I was trying to save water.” He laughs, flinching away from her touch. 

She rolls her eyes though she laughs. “Barr, get out of bed. 

“Let’s just pack tomorrow. I promise I’ll get up extra early.” He promises while snuggling into his pillow with his eyes closed. 

Iris gets out of bed, rounding the bed toward his side. “Bartholomew Henry Allen get out of this bed and help me before I spank you.” She yanks the covers off of his body. 

He sits up, planting his feet on the floor. “Oooo, you promise.” He smirks, pulling her between his legs by her shirt. 

She licks her lips, holding in laughter as she smacks his hand away. “Get out of this bed and help your girlfriend now.” 

“Fine,” He sighs, getting out of bed. He then grabs the suitcases out of the closet and puts them on the bed. “So…” He drags, breaching this subject gently. “How’d the conversation go with my mom? 

“Mm, I think it went as expected. We came to an understanding and that was it.” Iris will eventually tell him about this new information regarding Marlize. This just isn’t the right moment. Besides, this trip, this reunion is way more important. 

“Good,” He is so glad. “What about Wally? Did he seem kinda off to you?” He questions while taking his undergarments out of the drawer and folding them. 

Iris walks to her closet, grabbing clothing off the hanger. “Yeah, he’s lying about something. He and Linda both. But for the life of me, I can’t figure out what.” She sighs, dropping her pile of clothes onto the bed. 

Iris doesn’t know what her brother and best friend are hiding but she sure as hell will find out. 

“Well, what did he say?” He eyes the many clothes she has, watching as she starts folding. 

“He said he’s moving back to Central City to be with Linda.” She scoffs. 

“Okay, what’s wrong with that?” He continues to fold his clothes, packing them into the suitcase. 

She huffs. “It’s nothing wrong with it. It’s just not like him to stick around unless…” She pauses, feeling a knot form in the pit of her stomach. “Do you think Linda’s pregnant?” She hates asking but she needs to know. She needs to know that what she’s thinking is completely wrong.

“No…” He says simply. He notices that his simple answer isn’t enough so he stops packing. He then pulls her to sit on the edge of the bed with him. “She would never do that to you. Besides, Wally is way too young, and doesn’t Linda hate kids?”  

“Linda doesn’t hate kids. She’s just…” Iris lingers, not wanting to say something so negative about her old friend. 

“Selfish.” He answers for her.

“Yeah,” She reluctantly agrees. 

“Yeah,” He nods. 

Then an awkward silence falls upon them as a huge elephant enters the room. “Wanna talk about it?” She asks gently. 

He sighs heavily. “Not really.” He doesn’t want to offend but he’s just not in the mood. He wants these next few days to be nothing but bliss. He doesn’t want to have to worry about his reproductive health. “But I did schedule an appointment for next month.”  

 “Can I come with you?” Her fingers rub against the hair of his beard, caressing his cheek. 

“Of course, you can.” He kisses her palm then her lips. “You know I’m hopeless without you.” 

“I guess that includes packing your clothes as well huh?” She jokes, cringing at the crime scene of wrinkled shirts and messily folded pants. 

His mouth falls open. “Hey…” He says in offense. “I’ll have you know I was trying my hardest.” 

“You were…” Barry deadpans her. “Okay, okay. How about I fold and you pack.” 

“Fine.” He stands. “And um, babe you do know we’re only gonna be there for a few days.” He eyes the many clothes she has spread across the bed. “It’s not like you’ll be wearing much of anything when we’re alone anyways.” He winks.

“What do you have up your sleeve, Mr. Allen?” She squints playfully as she folds his clothes while stationed in the middle of the bed. 

“Me?” He points to himself. “Nothing, nothing…” He shakes his head vigorously. He hates withholding things from Iris but this lie is beneficial for both parties involved. 

“You do know that Keyshia told me where you two went earlier today.” She looks at him knowingly. 

His brows raise. “Did she now.” Iris nods. “Well, what did she say?” 

“She said that you bought a couple of things and learned a few things.” She says causally though her eyebrows imply something else. 

“I did.” He nods confidently while packing their things. “Learned so much. Did you know that when a woman squirts it’s mostly glands and pee?” He motions like his head just exploded. 

“Um, yes…” She drags, looking at him like he’s insane for not knowing this common information.

He pauses with a folded shirt in hand. “Wow, and all this time I thought she orgasmed…” He shakes his head in disappointment. “I mean she could have but then again she is a compulsive liar. So, really she just peed on me… Multiple times too. This whole time just peeing on me.” He’s shocked by this new information. That’s what he gets for reading Reddit comments instead of reading up on real women’s anatomy. He was so sure that squirting was the ultimate sign of orgasm. He just believed Iris was incapable of doing it… Because boy does she cum.

Iris blinks rapidly. “Excuse me?” 

“Awe, babe come on. We can talk about this. We can talk about past relations with other partners.” He continues to stuff the suitcase with clothes. “We are in a committed, monogamous relationship. No need to be jealous.” 

“Okay,” She folds her arms over her chest, sitting up on her knees… “So do you want to hear about how other men have made me cum?” She expresses so effortlessly with a hint of sassiness and a cocked eyebrow. 

Barry bites his tongue. “Mhm,” He squeals with a strained smile that looks like it hurts. 

“Great, so there was this guy, Rashawn with the biggest tongue-” 

“Okay, okay, okay…” He cuts her off, pressing his hands to his ears and closing his eyes tight. “Please spare me the details about Rashawn with the oversized tongue.” Iris giggles as she continues to fold and organize their clothes on the bed. “I just wanted to share with you all I've learned.” He responds innocently with potty lips 

She responds smartly with… “Well, I would rather you show me than tell me.” He smirks, climbing onto the bed with a heated stare. “Nope,” She presses her hand into his chest, stopping him from pouncing on her. “Pack now sex later.” She orders. 

“Fine,” He mopes as he goes back to stuffing the rest of their clothes into the suitcase. “So, you excited about this trip?” 

“Mm, not as excited as you…” She teases, causing him to scrunch his face. “Don’t give me that face. I saw you sneak up here after dinner, trying to hide whatever is in that velvet box.” Iris is kinda more excited to find out what’s in the small, rectangle box than she is for the reunion. 

“I don’t have the faintest idea of what you're talking about dear.” He zips the full suitcase closed, placing it by the door. 

Iris’s brows furrow. “Mhmm.” 

“Don’t give me that look, Ann.”

She stares openly.

“Baby, come on. It’s supposed to be a surprise.” Hopefully, one she’ll never forget. 

“Fine,” She gives up, throwing her hands up. 

“I like when you listen to me.” He grins.

“Don’t get used to it.” She says smartly, zipping the other suitcase closed, and pushing it toward him. 

He laughs as he grabs the heavy suitcase, placing it next to the other. He then climbs on the bed, collapsing across it. Iris folds her arms on his chest, laying her head against it. “How are you feeling? Tell me.” She asks softly, knowing that his mind is quickly activated with millions of thoughts. 

“Feeling kinda indifferent.” He mutters, looking up at the ceiling. 

She sits up, crossing her legs. “Why?” 

“I don’t know.” He hums, barely opening his mouth as he shrugs. “I’m not nervous or anxious about anything. We’re prepared for anything the host, the cast or the execs throw our way.” Iris nods in agreement. “It’s just… I don’t know. I feel weird about leaving DJ again.” Barry doesn’t feel like his destination to New York is final nor is he worried about Marlize. He’s just gonna miss his little guy. 

Iris puts his head in her lap. “Babe, we’re not leaving him. Just think of this trip as a job. The reunion, our meeting with the exec, and the wrap party. All of it is work.” 

“I know.” He sighs. “It’s just that last time I was only hours away from him. Now I’ll be thousands of miles away.”

“The trip is only for a few days, honey.” She soothes, running her fingers through his hair. “Besides, DJ is so excited…” 

THE NEXT DAY…

Joe opens the door to the untouched bedroom. “And this is where you’ll be sleeping, little one.” He expresses with excitement, arms stretched wide as he shows off his daughter’s old room with a smile. 

DJ cautiously walks into the bedroom, scanning around the large room with Zoë sniffing behind him. This room is so big and quite cold. 

“He’ll have his own bed and bathroom.” Joe points, hoping his grandson will like the space he prepared.

Iris enters the room. “Uhh dad, DJ doesn’t take showers yet.” 

“Yeah, he’s kinda scared of the tall showerhead.” Barry places DJ's belongings on the bed. His son was super excited about today. He barely got any sleep and was up before him and Iris. He actually kept them on schedule, rushing them out of the door. But now he looks kinda apprehensive and timid as he stands quietly in the middle of the room.

Cecile leans against the entryway of the door. “That’s fine. He can bathe in the guest bathroom.” 

Barry and Iris look at each other, remembering the time they spent in the guest bathroom. 

“Yeah, grandpa will help you during bath time.” Joe smiles down at his beautiful grandson. “But in the meantime. Look, buddy…” He gets DJ’s attention, placing his hand on DJ’s shoulder. “You’ll have your own tv. Your nightlight will go on this shelf. You can put your toys anywhere you want… But the dog has to sleep downstairs.” Joe has been quite lenient as a grandfather but the dog upstairs, in the bed is a no-go. 

“So, I’ll be sleeping here alone.” DJ’s eyes water as his knees starts to buckle in fear. He was very excited to spend time with his grandparents and Jenna but now he’s thinking otherwise. 

“Yeah, you’ll have this room all to yourself,” Joe says proudly. 

DJ’s bottom lip trembles and his eyes blur with tears as he forces out a harsh cry. His throat clogs with stuttered whimpers as he covers his face with his hands, embarrassed by his outburst. 

“Excuse us.” Barry’s fatherly instincts kick in as he picks DJ up, carries him to the bathroom, and closes the door behind him. 

“Was it something that I said…” Joe cringes.

“Maybe.” Cecile cringes. 

“Definitely.” Iris nods with a cringe also. 

Barry sits DJ on the counter of the sink. “Hey, what’s wrong?”

“I don’t want to be here anymore…” He stutters with tears streaming down his face. 

“Do you wanna go to grandma’s house?” Barry grabs the tissue off of the roll, drying his son’s eyes. 

He shakes his head. 

“Well, what do you wanna do baby?” Barry isn’t sure if he should ask this question, knowing that the answer might break his heart. 

“I wanna go with you.” He whines, whipping along his nose. DJ isn’t feeling so thrilled about being in a new place without his parents. He doesn’t want to sleep by himself, especially without Zoë. 

Barry sighs sadly. “I’m sorry baby but you can’t come with me. Daddy is going to be so busy and this trip is no place for kids.” He hates this feeling. The feeling of remorse and regret. He doesn’t want his son to feel sad, or worse… neglected. It’s just this trip is not a good environment for a child. 

“I promise I’ll be good…” He whimpers with a pouty face.

“Awe, I know. I know.” He kisses the top of his son’s head, wishing there he could take his son’s sadness away. He then cups DJ’s face, saying…“You’re always good. You, Donovan, are everything good in my life.” 

DJ blushes though tears still fall down his pouty face. 

Barry grabs more tissue, placing it on his nose, instructing him to. “Blow,” DJ blows long and hard. “Again,” He instructs and DJ blows as hard as he can until his nose way clears. Barry then throws the messy tissues away. “Listen to me. Maybe we can ask grandpa if you can sleep in the room with Jenna. You wanna do that?” 

“Yes, daddy.” He nods. 

“Then that way you won’t feel so alone. I don’t ever want you to feel alone.” Barry wets his thumb, wiping the tear stains off DJ’s cheeks. “So, how about this… Mommy and I will be gone for four nights. That’s one, two, three, four bedtimes that we’ll be gone.” He counts the days on DJ’s hand as he continues to explain. “Then on the fifth day, you’ll be back in your own bed with both me and mommy tucking you in. And then later in the week, we’ll go to your favorite beach and the school fair is next month.. Now how does that sound?” 

DJ’s face lights up. “It sounds fun. I love the beach.” He bounces, wanting to be picked up. Barry picks him up, holding him close. 

“Good.” Barry picks him up, holding him close. “Daddy’s gonna miss you, baby.” 

DJ wraps his arms around his father, laying against his shoulders as he closes his eyes, whispering… “I’m gonna miss you too, daddy. 

NEW YORK

Iris enters the lavish hotel room with Barry dragging their many bags behind them. “Oh… My… God…” He eyes widened and her mouth falls open as she awes the grand room. High ceilings, expensive aromas, and lavish curtains with large windows giving off the vibe of expensive. “Babe, look at this place. I guess being on LI payroll isn’t so bad after all.” She jokes as her fingers glide along the fabric of the bed. She then spots a note on the mattress. She folds her leg under her bottom as she sits, opening the note, reading… “Welcome West-Allen, it’s such a pleasure having you two here with us. Feel free to the complimentary amenities and don’t be shy about calling the front desk for anything. Enjoy your stay.” Hmm, Iris is starting to like her name attached to him. She never saw herself hyphenating but Iris Ann West-Allen sure does have a nice ring to it. 

“Damn,” He drags, scoping out the place. “This place is noice.” He exaggerates, leaving their luggage by the door. “I’m kinda not mad anymore about the long flight and crazy paparazzi following us.” He admires the expensive details of the master suite. The king-size bed. The plush sofa. The bathroom to the left with dual sinks, a jacuzzi tub, and a rainfall shower. Then he turns to his right, noticing a hidden room that intrigues him. He takes a quick peek, seeing a nice entertainment room with a round sofa and bar. “Shit…” He whispers to himself. 

“Pssh, tell me about it.” Iris mumbles, getting comfortable on the bed as her body subconsciously weakens under the plush comforter. She falls back, moaning as her head hits the fluffy pillow. Her eyes instantly close as she snuggles into it. 

“What are you over here moaning about?” He then sees her on her side, snuggling with her pillow. “Iris, we just got here.” He whines, slapping his hands against his sides. He knows the flight was long but she spent most of the time keeping him awake with the loud tappings of her laptop and odd requests for different nuts. 

“I know baby…” She moans. “But this bed is calling my name, begging for me to stay.” She snuggles deeper into the cushion of the pillow. Iris was up the whole flight creating a schedule for their entire stay. Kinda sucks that she’s in this irresistibly comfortable bed, putting them hours behind on their shopping schedule. 

“You promised you’d be calling my name.” He whimpers, standing at the end of the bed with a pout and folded arms. 

Iris opens one eye, giving him a look. 

“Joking, joking.” He pleads with raised hands. “I’ll let you sleep. Want me to take your hoodie off?” He asks though he’s already raising the hoodie over her head. “What about your jeans?” He flings his hoodie that she was wearing onto the sofa across the room. 

“No, just my sock and shoes.” She mutters while on the brink of slumber. 

He sits on the edge of the bed, slipping off her socks and shoes one by one. He then grabs her barefoot, and kisses from ankle to toe. 

Iris starts laughing uncontrollably. 

His brows crease. “What?” 

“You so have a foot fetish.” Iris doesn’t mind it at all but he’s so in denial about it. 

“I do not.” He answers in offense. Barry does not have a foot fetish. He just likes to kiss odd parts of her body. 

Iris stares, pursing her lips. 

He snorts. “Fine, I may dabble in the enjoyment of your nicely pedicured feet and want to put them in my mouth on occasion.” He rolls his eyes with a smirk. 

“See, now was that so hard.” She flirts, outlining his arm with her toes. 

“Shut up,” He laughs, playfully pushing her feet away before he stands. “I’m gonna go in the other room and call your dad. Hopefully, he hasn’t put DJ to sleep yet.” 

“Okay,” She murmurs as she turns on her stomach, drifting into the realm of slumber. 

He goes into the closed-off room to the right, plopping onto the sofa as he digs into his sweats for his phone. He rushes to facetime Joe. Thankfully, he answers. “Hey Joe, is DJ still up?”

“Oh, no I just put him and Jenna down to sleep. Sorry, Barr.” He says apologetically. 

Fucking timezone difference. “It’s cool I’ll just call tomorrow.” 

“I’m sure he’ll be looking forward to it.”

“Hey, Joe…” He says with a lingerness in his voice. 

“Yeah, Barr?” 

“Thank you… For everything. You’ve made me and DJ feel so welcome. It means so much to me. I appreciate your family’s kindness.” Barry expresses his gratitude. All Barry’s ever wanted for his son is a family. Now his son has so many people to love. So many people that care. 

“I’ll accept this appreciation today but never thank me again.” He responds seriously. “Iris is my heart and she chooses you, meaning you are now an extension of her. You are my family. You, Barry, are my son. And Donovan is my grandson. So, there should never be another need for thanks just for being family.”

“I…” Barry is speechless, heart swelling with such love. 

Joe just smiles warmly. “You get some sleep. I’ll make sure to call you tomorrow. Goodnight son.” 

“Goodnight.” He breathes.

  LATER THAT NIGHT

Iris wakes in a darken room. She rolls onto her back, finding her phone on the bed. It’s midnight. He let her sleep through the whole day. “Babe,” She calls groggily. 

“In here.” He answers from the bathroom. 

Iris yawns, stretching her limbs as she gets out of bed. She walks toward the bathroom while getting the sleep out of her eyes. Iris then blinks away the sleep as she notices a glow of lights bouncing off the walls in the bathroom. “...” She gasps, looking up to see him yet again standing before her with a romantic setting behind him. “Baby,” 

“Being with you makes me want to do stuff like this…” He charms, answering before she can question. He then holds out his hand and she takes it willingly. 

Iris looks around the room. Candles sprinkled around the bathroom. An aroma lamp, glowing the many shades of purple and red. The bathtub filled to the brim with petals and him in nothing but a towel. How romantic. “Why do you do so much for me?” Her voice a hushed whisper.

“Cause you’re everything to me.” His finger drags along her face. 

Those words sound so familiar to how he once felt about Marlize, causing her to utter. “Your one and only?” 

“No,” He shakes his head. “The one that will give me many.” He so, so desperately hopes. 

Iris is smitten, blushing under his gaze. No words can express how whole his words make her feel. So instead she gently pulls on his towel, letting it fall to the floor. Her hands then glide up his stomach, easing up his shoulders and into his hair as she presses her lips to his. 

“Mmm,” He groans against her lips as his hands smooth around the front of her waist, lifting her shirt. “We haven’t taken a bath together in some time.” He rasps, sending chills down her spine.

She smiles. “Your right. We haven’t.” 

He helps her strip, fingers lingering over her naked body. She grabs his hand as she steps into the tub and sits, submerging her body into the streaming water. 

“Feels good?” He breathes as he slides into the bath behind her. 

She lays against his chest, closing her eyes. “Mmhm, yes. Thank you, baby.” 

“You’re welcome.” He kisses her neck up to her ear.

Iris finds such comfort being surrounded by him. His hands on her hips. His lips on her pulse. And his breath on her neck. He is her peace. He is her calm in the storm. “Mmm,” She exhales, letting his touch, his presence engulf her. 

“Something wrong? You sighed.” He asks softly, lips never leaving her skin. 

“Just thinking…” She sighs again. “About us…” She turns her neck to look at him. “We’ve come such a long way, Barr."

He pecks her lips. “Yes, we have. And I don’t regret a single thing.”

“Not even sleeping with my dad.” She teases. 

He laughs. “Oh, don’t remind me. Ugh, that whole week was crazy.”

“Yeah with your ugly sweater and hives.” 

“Ohh,” He chuckles into her hair. “Let’s not forget your dad thinking I was a crossdresser for most of the visit.” 

Iris giggles, throwing her head back into his chest. “Right, and then my grandma’s loud singing all morning.” 

“Oh god, that singing.” He groans and laughs. “Between you constantly trying to jump my bones and her singing I could barely get any sleep.” 

Iris turns fully in his lap. “I guess some things never change.” She whispers against his lips.  

“I hope they never…” Her eyes are so beautiful but he’s distracted. He’s tempted by her silky skin. Her pouty lips. Her breast and hardened nipples press against his chest. God, she’s making him so hard. 

“I can feel you, ya know…” She teases as she bites her lip. She’s so hot for him. His brazen eyes. His chiseled jawline. His warm chest and big hands and his hardened dick against her stomach, teasing her. 

“Well, why don’t you come sit on it then.” 

She blushes. “You are so nasty.” 

“You love it.” He kisses her lips hotly, causing her to grind against him. “Ooo, I love when you do that.” He grunts. “You’re so sexy.” He squeezes her hips, forcing her to grind harder. 

She smirks. “I know…” Her lips tease his. She tastes his top lip and then sucks on the bottom, pulling until it pops back in place. She cradles his jaw with one hand and plays in his hair with the other. She controls the kiss and he controls her body, roughly digging his hands into her ass. “You just couldn’t wait for me to fuck you like this again huh?” She flirts, feeling his penis pulsating against her stomach. 

“Oh, please fuck me…” He groans desperately. 

She grabs his dick. “I love hearing you beg daddy.” She then lifts her hips, positioning him at her entrance, and lowers. “Mmm,” Her lip gets caught between her teeth as her head rolls back. 

“Hsss,” He hisses as his hips thrust upward involuntarily. He can’t control himself when he’s inside of her. His hand digs and drags along her back. His lips capture hers, loving the sounds she breathes into his mouth. His knees bend, and his hips push, fucking her in a steady motion. 

“Barry…” She slurs his name. His name, a constant on her lips. Her flesh burns for him. “Fuck, baby…” She cries, clenching around his slow thrust. 

His powerful thrust. His whisper grunts. It creates a roaring mixture of passion and lust inside her loins. The desire for him alone creeps up her spine and into her brain, causing her to say. “Don’t stop. Don’t stop.” She whines. Her arms then lock around his shoulders as she buries her face into his neck. God, does he fuck her so good.

The hot water follows their motion. It eases up her back, steaming against her hot skin. It then reverses, slapping against the other side. His force creates a storm of waves as his thrust becomes faster, untamed. Ripples of moving water slap against the rim, threatening to topple over. But neither seem to care. 

He’s almost there. He feels his balls tightening. His abs contracting. He could bust right now. He could cum just at the mere thought of her. But he wants to see her. He needs to see her beautiful face. “Hey, look at me. Baby, look at me.” He commands breathlessly. 

Iris lazily pulls back, lips parted as she looks into his hazy eyes. She can tell he’s about to come. The veins in his neck. His clenched jaw. His bitten lips. He’s so sexy, causing her to feel a sweeping tug in her stomach. God, she’s so close. 

His trust slows to a stop. He then puts his arms on the rim of the tub. “Fuck me.” He orders with a devilish stare. “I wanna watch you cum.” 

Chills curve up her spine as she locks eyes with him. “You just wanna watch?” She questions as her hands roam up his chest. 

He nods with a cocky smile. “Mhmm,” 

“Good…” She kisses him. “So good…” Her tongue glides over his bottom lip before catching the top as her hips start to move. She grabs his mouth, tongue kissing him messily as she fucks him. 

The water starts to spill over as she bounces, not caring about the mess she makes but only the mess he’ll make of her. Her nails dig into his shoulders and her eyes roll close as she chases her release. “I’m close. So damn close.” Her body is on fire, watching him as he watches her with much desire. Her bouncing becomes rough grinding, a fluid motion of erratic whining. 

He studies her. Her skin of silk, glowing in the moonlight with red rose petals sticking to her body. Her luscious lips calling his name and her breast begging for his mouth. “I know baby.” He licks her hard nipple. “I know.” He whines, tongue rotating over the other. 

“Barry,” She whimpers, hands clawing through his hair. “Ooo, fuck!” She screams and then cums.

He continues to watch, mesmerized as she falls apart in his arms. “Beautiful.” He whispers. “Always beautiful.” He praises. 

    THE NEXT DAY

Iris wakes from the sunlight pouring into the room. “Mmm,” She groans, squirting her eyes in discomfort. She then rolls away from the bright lights, subconsciously snuggling into her boyfriend’s side. 

Her mind is hazy and her eyes are heavy as she slowly blinks into consciousness. Her vision clears. Her heart warms and her lips spread into a smile. He’s so pretty. Her sleeping beau. 

His hair is messy, pulled in different directions. The hairstyle is some of her finest works. His chest is riddled with beauty moles and tattoos that she’s counted on multiple occasions. And her favorite thing… “Mmm,” Iris licks her lips, eyeing the only thing she’ll gulp down besides coffee in the morning. 

His proud penis stands at attention, teasing her from under the sheets. His morning wood is calling her name, begging for her mouth. She then takes a quick look up at her sleeping beau, making sure that he is indeed sleeping. Once satisfied she stealthy slides under the covers. She then carefully crawls between his legs and…

He feels something. Something warm. Something soft. “...” His breath hitches and his closed eyelids flicker. What is that? “Mmm,” He hums in almost a whisper as his penis twitches. It feels so good. It feels so right. It feels so wet… “Oh my fucking god.” He moans with his lips parted and his arm covering his face. 

“Fuck!” He shouts, veins popping out his neck as his eyes snap open. He then looks below him, seeing the sheet boobing recklessly. God, he’s gonna cum. “Iris,” He strains, lifting the sheets. 

She looks up and winks with his penis in his hand. “Good morning handsome.” 

“...” He opens his mouth but nothing but air passes through. His eyes then enlarge as she licks the upside of his dick. She then deep throats his penis, causing his head to flop against the pillow and his eye roll close. “Shit, shit, shit, shit…” He croaks, holding his breath. 

She giggles around his dick as she tongues the tip and kisses along the shaft. Iris enjoys sucking his dick. It makes her feel sexy and confident, knowing she’s the only woman that’ll have his hip bucking and his toes curling. Knowing that she’s the only woman he’ll ever plead to for release. 

“Iris…” He pleads, squeezing his eyes tight as his hip follows her movement. He’s about to cum. He always signals his release, gripping her shoulder and she always does the same… Ignoring him. “I’m cumming. I’m cumming. I’m cumming…” He whimpers, shooting into her mouth uncontrollably as his hip levitates off the bed. 

Iris chuckles, wiping his essence off her mouth. She then crawls up his body, straddling his waist. “I said good morning handsome.” Her tone is deep and devilish but her smile is teasing. 

He snorts with a shy smile. “Good morning, love.” 

Iris leans down, pressing her full lips to his, moaning against them. He kisses her back with much passion. “Okay, time to get up.” She pulls back, patting his chest but he’s too busy obsessing over her naked body. Iris tilts his chin up with one finger. “Hi…”

“Hey,” He says breathlessly with a crooked smile. 

“Scheduled meeting. Time to get ready.” She hops off of him, switching toward the shower and he watches her every move, mesmerized. “Coming,” She calls, with a turn of her head as she enters the shower. 

“You ain’t gotta ask me twice.” He mumbles, sprinting out of bed toward her. 

THE MEETING

“These are the official contracts.” Gideon slides the paperwork toward them on the other side of the desk. “All I need is your signature on the last three pages.” She informs, placing a pen on each contract. 

Iris leans forward, scanning the contract. “Hmm,” She hums, not that she reads anything she’s displeased with. She’s purposefully using tiny gestures and limiting her vocabulary to get what she wants. “Mm,” She moans disapprovingly as she leans back in her seat, crossing her knee over the other like the businesswoman she is. 

Gideon’s brows furrow. “Is something wrong?” 

Iris smirks. “Nothing at all.” Iris didn’t have a plan coming into this meeting. But Gideon’s slight hesitation means there is room for negotiation. “We would just like to negotiate a few things.” 

Gideon gulps. “Like what?” 

Barry stands, buttoning his suit jacket. “We want to meet you, boss.” 

Gideon pauses. 

“Will that be a problem?” Iris stands as well. 

Gideon rushes, lifting from her seat. “No, not at all. Right, this way.” She directs, leading them out of the room. 

Barry and Iris didn’t come up with a plan, more of an agreement. The scheduling, the topics, the cast, and the shooting times. And they knew Gideon was merely just a face. She cannot negotiate anything. They need the higher up. The overseer. The person in charge of the narrative. The person responsible for their image. 

Gideon walks them onto the set, the reunion stage. Iris’s eyes sparkle as she looks around the grand hall of lights, cameras, crew members, and a stage. It’s all quite overwhelming in the best way. Barry on the other hand isn’t impressed as he stuffs his hands in his pockets. 

Gideon spots her boss, sitting in the host chair onstage. “Harrison, West-Allen is here to see you.” 

Iris blushes at their names being presented together as she follows Gideon up onto the stage with Barry’s assistance. 

Harrison looks up from his clipboard as he stands. “Barry, Iris, nice to finally meet you.” He greets them, shaking Iris then Barry’s hand. “Did you two get around to signing the contract?” He inquires. 

“No,” Iris answers with a fake smile. 

Harrison looks at Gideon. “They wanted to meet you first Harrison.” She explains. 

“Harrison? Wait, are you HR?” Barry asks with knitted brows. 

Harrison gestures for everyone to sit. “Nope, that is my twin brother and Gideon here is my wife.” 

Iris blinks. 

Barry’s lips part. “Oh.”

Gideon smiles, leaning into her husband. 

“Yeah, we always get that reaction… Gideon’s image is to appear single. It’s better for viewership.” He explains. “So, West-Allen what is preventing you two from sighing?” He asks simply, placing his clipboard out as a random crew member quickly takes it, running off stage. 

Iris’s interest is peaked. Harrison Wells just performed the subtlest power move, showing his dominance. He’s quite clever but she’s smart. Mr. Wells must remember that he needs them not the other way around. “Information,” Iris answers simply. 

Harrison snorts and smirks. “In exchange for?” 

Barry tightens his jaw. “Negotiations.” Harrison Wells is not Barry’s favorite person. This person is responsible for airing most of Barry’s downfalls. But he’s useful. Iris needs him… for now. Though in due time Harrison will need Iris. 

Harrison is impressed as he pushes up his glasses. “Carry on…” 

There’s a twinkle in Iris’s eyes. “Well first the title name must go… West-Allen’s Island is awful.” 

Harrison nods. “I agree.” 

Gideon subtly rolls her eyes. She came up with the name. 

“Good,” Iris is delighted. “Oh, we also revised the schedule… Your crew will have six hours for four different scenes to create thirty minutes of magic.  There will absolutely be no filming upstairs in any location nor will there be scheduled shoots on Wednesdays. Also, our son will only be allowed in four out of ten episodes which means you must follow the child labor laws in regard to filming hours.” Iris explains as Harrison listens. “During the six hours of filming one of those hours will go toward confessionals. You or whoever may ask whatever you want. But if Barry or I decide not to answer then you must cut it from the show… Our relationship will be a storyline obviously but we need something as individuals. Barry’s individual storyline will revolve around his work with his children. Mine will be embarking on motherhood and establishing myself as a mogul.” 

Harrison is quiet, pondering his next move. 

“Also, Scott Evans will not be attending the wrap party or the reunion. We want hair, makeup, and wardrobe for the reunion. And absolutely no paparazzi. Only exclusive photographer.” Barry rattles off his demands. 

“Those are some valid demands…” Gideon response.

“Demands that will be granted. You need us, remember.” Iris gives Harrison a knowing look. “Which is why you’re going to tell us…”

“Tell you what?” Gideon asks. 

“He knows…” Barry responds with an unmoved stare. 

“Yes, he does.” Iris agrees. 

“I do.” He turns, focusing solely on Iris. “But what do I get?” 

Iris folds her arms. “Anything in the confines of this trip.” 

“Okay, deal…” Harrison likes her. He likes this version of her. The one that knows her worth. The boss. “I am not at liberty to name names but there are two couples. One is getting engaged during the closing remark and the other will announce that they are expecting. Both will distract and overshadow… How are you gonna stop them from upstaging you?” 

Iris’ eyes pierce with anger. She could care less about anyone upstaging her. She’s more concerned about this news about her brother and old friend.

She knew. She fucking knew it.

  LATER THAT DAY

Iris: Dear Linda Park, you are fired. I, Iris West, are releasing you of all best friend duties. Due to your lack of appearances and LIES… We can no longer be friends. Iris West will also relieve you of any duties regarding The Citizen. Hope you have a great life being friendless, you liar and deceiver. 

Iris: From your ex-friend and ex-boss, Iris West. 

Iris: P.S. congratulations on the-

Barry grabs her phone, pocketing it. 

“Hey,” Iris complains. “I was only congratulating her.” 

“Babe,” He warns. 

“Fine,” She huffs, folding her arms. Iris was just simply doing the right thing. She was doing the moral thing. The professional thing. She’s cutting all ties with Linda Park. Then she’s going to kill Wallace West. 

Barry squeezes her thigh. “You’re pouting.” 

Iris frowns. “Well, I’m allowed to pout…” Her feelings are hurt. She’s furious, angry, and sad. 

“That you are… But we don’t need the photographers capturing this cute little pout of yours.” He taps her nose. 

Barry doesn’t like the news about Linda and Wally either but they have work to do. He and Iris made a deal with the devil, Harrison Wells. He wants them to make an appearance at this fancy restaurant to promote the reunion. This Harrison Wells is ruining Barry’s plans. This dinner will put them an hour behind schedule. 

Iris tries not to smile but fails. “Whatever…” 

Honestly, Iris does not want to go to this pre-planned dinner. She much rather be in her hotel, stuffing her face with room service. But she must admit that she is loving being chauffeured around in a luxury vehicle. She can thank her deal with Harrison Wells for that. 

“George, what’s the ETA?” Barry asks, looking at the time on his watch. 

“Three minutes sir.” The driver answers. 

Iris’s brows knit. “Babe, what’s going on? We’re not in a rush.”

“I know. I’m just…” He moves closer, shoulder to shoulder as he whispers. “Starving.” His eyes roam over her body like a starving man as he licks his lips. His fingers then graze over her knee, slowly crawling up her tight dress. 

“Baby,” She squeezes her legs closed. “We’re not alone.” She says through clenched teeth, pointing toward the driver with her head.

“You know how to be quiet.” He charms. 

Iris inwardly moans as her teeth scrap against her lip. She can’t find the words to respond so she just slowly opens her legs. 

Barry takes the quickest peek at the driver, making sure his eyes are on the road. He then presses his lips against hers as his hand creeps up her dress. He feels the fabric of her panties, soft and silky. “Iris, are these the panties I bought you?” He murmurs against her lips.

“Yeah,” She blushes. 

“Babe, it suppose to be a surprise.” 

“Surprise.” She sings in a whisper. Iris got curious and snooped through his luggage. She found these sexy pair of underwear and choose to test them out. 

He stares lustfully then directors her to… “Come closer and wrap your hands around my arm.” He wonders how much she knows about the panties. Does she know that they vibrate? Does she know that he can control the panties with just a touch of a button? 

Iris moves closer, locking both hands and arms around his. 

“Don’t look at me. Keep your eyes straight ahead.” He whispers, acting causal. “You’ll need to scream. You can just yell into my arm.” His hand is meticulous and slow, inching toward her core. 

“Please…” She purrs breathily as her heart beats outside of her chest. Her body is on fire, hot for his touch. 

“Hush, pretty. You have to be quiet.” He kneads with his knuckles, stroking along the seam of her panties. He can feel her heartbeat from her core as it pulsates against his hand. He then moves her panties to the side and grunts at how wet she is. “Damn, pretty.” He rasps as his dominant fingers stroke her lips. 

Iris’s head falls against his shoulder. “Mmm,” She bites her lip, nails digging into his arm. He then parts her lips, teasing the outline of her clitoris. Iris has no control. Her senses are going into overdrive as his digit tap against her overly stimulated clit. It’s so erotic and yet so stressful as she tries to stay quiet. 

Barry kisses her head, whispering. “Shh, pretty.” He uses his two fingers, stroking and adding repeated pressure. He then picks up the pace, rubbing roughly, creating hot friction. 

“Ughh,” She bites his arm and squeezes her eyes closed. Her lower regions spark with electricity. She’s close and on the brink of losing her mind. Just one more upward drag of his fingers and…

“We have arrived, sir,” George announces. 

And it’s gone. “Fuck!” She shouts unexpectedly. 

Barry’s brows raise to his hairline as he blushes red at her abrupt yelling. 

“Is something wrong ma’am?” George asks, looking into the review mirror. 

“No,” She waves off with a laugh as she stealthily removes Barry’s hand from between her legs. “Everything’s perfect. I’m just so hungry.” She expresses with faux cheeriness. She then swiftly exits the car, speeding toward the restaurant. 

“Thanks, George.” Barry thanked him before exiting the car. He then rounds towards the driver’s side, pulling money out of his pocket. “Oh, and keep the engine running. We shouldn’t be long.” He tips and then follows Iris into the restaurant, wiping his hand off on his pants. 

    THE RESTAURANT 

Iris scans the menu but her other senses are distracted. She then licks her lips and shifts in her seat as she feels his heated gaze. “Barry?” 

“Hmm?” He hums in response with his menu in viewpoint though he can’t seem to focus on anything else but her. Besides his attention on his beautiful girlfriend is great publicity as he sees photographers snapping pictures out of the corner of his eye. 

“You’re staring.” She blushes with flirty eyes. 

“Sorry, I can’t help it. You’re so beautiful.” He allures.

Iris rolls her eyes though her lips spread into a warm smile. He stares at her with so much passion. His gaze is full of love though the slight glance he makes at her lips is quite seductive. And if it wasn’t for all these people packed into this glamorous restaurant she would fuck him right here and now. 

“Bonjour madame et monsieur.” The waiter nods in both directions. “Welcome to La Grande Boucherie, my name is Louis and I will be your waiter for this evening.” He smiles, pulling his notepad and pen out of his pocket. “Can I start you off with some drinks? We have signature cocktails, wines, and beers.” 

“Uhh,” Iris glances over the menu. “I will have a glass of your sparkling rosé please.” 

“Good choice madame.” He then turns towards Barry. “And for you monsieur?” Barry continues to stare at Iris with stars in his eyes. “Monsieur?” He calls again. 

“Babe,” Iris calls, tapping his foot from under the table. 

He clears his throat. “Yes, um…” He snaps out of his loving gaze. “Yes, I’ll just have water. Thank you.” 

“Great,” The waiter cringes. “I’ll bring those drinks out right away.” 

Iris forces a smile, watching as the poor waiter rushes away. She then kicks Barry’s leg. 

“Hey…” He frowns, rubbing his knee. 

“Well, stop embarrassing me. You’ll have everyone thinking you’re some love-struck teenager with your constant glaring.” She teases though loving every second. And it also seems that those who recognize them love it as well as a few patrons snap photos of them. 

“But I am a love-struck teenager.” He says with a goofy voice and smile. 

Iris laughs. “Hm, I wonder how it would be to date you during your mysterious bad boy teen years. I mean could you imagine-” 

“I can imagine a couple of things.” He bites his lip, tempted by the way her tight dress clings to her body. Her spaghetti straps entice him, threatening to fall off her shoulder. Her gold necklace shines around her neck. And the silk fabric of her dress draped low, showing off her cleavage that he is dying to lick. 

Iris knows that look. “Baby, we’re in public.” 

“And…” He answers cockily. 

Iris is speechless and quite turned on. She could fuck him right on this table. His broad shoulder that fills out his suede jacket. His gold watch that adores his wrist. The same wrist that has disappeared under her dress several times. His cashmere sweater that melts to his chest. And his pants that she knows are growing tighter as he shifts. 

“Don’t move…” His voice is low and rugged as he pulls out his phone, keeping it below the table, out of her viewpoint. He then opens the app and turns the vibration on the lowest setting. 

“Oh my…” She yells then quickly covers her mouth. Her eyes widened, looking at him for an explanation but he only smirks. “You fucking…” She tries but the repeated feeling of vibrations rubbing against her clit keeps her docile. 

“What was that baby? Didn’t quite get that.” He teases as his thumb creates patterns of vibrations on his phone as it signals to her panties. 

Iris’s eyes turn brazen as she heaves, desperate to fight the urge to scream. 

The waiter then approaches. “Here is your sparkling rosé madame and your water monsieur.” He places their drinks on the table. “Now, what would you like? We have a lovely roast beef au jus or maybe a pièce du Boucher.” 

“The check please.” His eyes never leave Iris’s nor does his finger stop its circling motion.

Iris grips the tablecloth. “Yes, check please.” 

                                   PARTITION (play me)

Iris rushes toward the car with Barry following closely behind her. She then crawls into the backseat with haste. “Back to the hotel George, thank you.” 

“You got it, ma’am.” He nods, putting the car in drive. 

“Oh and George pull up the partition please.” Yes, he knew this luxury car had a partition. It’s one of his many surprises. 

Iris’s mouth falls open. She can’t believe he knew this the whole time.

“As you wish sir.” George presses the button as the tinted glass rises.

Iris squints. “You are in so much trouble.”

He grins seductively. “Just shut up and kiss me.”   

 BACK AT THE HOTEL

The elevator goes up but Iris’s eyes roll back as her head falls against the elevator wall. She holds him tight, one hand gripping his wrist and the other wrapped around his arm with her nails digging into his skin. “Barr…” She slurs in a hushed tone, remembering that she must stay quiet as they stand behind the crowd of people stuffed into this small elevator. But fuck does the sensation of low vibrations feel so good against her clit. 

His jaw clenches, feeling her nails pierce his skin and her weight leaning against him. He wants to just grab her and kiss her but the elevator full of people is preventing that. So he keeps his eyes front, watching the numbers rise as Iris’s grip gets tighter and her legs get wobblier. “Come on, come on.” He murmurs with his hand in his pocket, threatening to up the vibrations. Just one more stop before they’re at the penthouse sweet.  

The elevator doors open. “Oh thank god,” Iris grumbles as everyone ushers out of the elevator. Iris holds her breath, watching as the doors slowly close. 

“Fucking finally.” He breathes as he presses Iris’ body into the elevator wall. He attacks her lips with his hands on her ass and his lower regions rammed against hers. 

“Kiss me. Fuck me.” Iris groans with both hands on his jaw as her tongue slides into his mouth. 

He kisses her hotly. “I will…” He grabs her wrists with one hand, placing them above her head as he nibbles on her neck. His other hand then digs into his pocket, upping the vibrations.

“Ooo, shit…” She purrs, bucking and thrusting her hips. Her lipstick makes a mess of his mouth as their tongues tangle for dominance. Iris giggles into his mouth as she hears the steel walls squeaking from them dry humping against it. Though sadly, she doesn’t hear the timely peep of their arrival at the top floor. 

The elevator doors open. “Well well well, if it isn’t Mr. Barry Allen and of course, the popular, the wonderful, the gorgeous, Iris West.” She’s been knocking on their door for over three minutes. But it seems that they’ve been too busy knocking boots in the elevator. 

Iris spins Barry behind her, hiding his imprinted bulge. “Gypsy, hey,” Iris says cheerfully. “What are you doing here?” She asks with surprise as she fixes her dress and hair.  

Barry does the same, holding Iris by the waist to prevent embarrassment as he digs in his pocket, stopping her panties from vibrating.

Gypsy holds the elevator door open, preventing it from closing. “I came here to talk to you. The girls wanted to go out tonight…” Gypsy knows that her friend will decline this outing, seeing as something more fun was about to pop off here. “But I see that you’re busy. So, how about brunch tomorrow?” She points, waiting on an answer. 

“Sure,” Iris walks out of the elevator with Barry close behind, hiding the front of his pants. “And next time please just text.”

Gypsy enters the elevator. “I most definitely will… Oh and Barry?” 

Barry’s brows raise expectantly. “Hm?” 

“Got a little rosy red on your lips.” She laughs as the doors close. 

He wipes his mouth roughly. “She’s mean.”

Iris unlocks the door to their suite. “Come on.” She grabs his wrist, pulling him toward the bed. “Now where were we?” 

He grins following her until she falls on the bed. He watches as she shimmies her dress up, exposing her damp panties. “Iris, you are so pretty.” He rasps, making direct eye contact with her panties. He then pulls out his phone and without looking away from her he turns the vibration back on. 

“Mmm,” She grunts, hips levitating off of the bed. Her eyes close and her teeth bite her bottom lip as a little machine inside her panties stimulates her clit. 

Honestly, Iris didn’t know. She just thought they were a cute pair of underwear that her boyfriend would be taking off later. She didn’t know about this little gadget that was slipped inside the tiniest slit of her underwear nor did she feel it until now. 

“Yeah?” He asks such a familiar question, loving hearing her response of…

“Yes, yes, more, more…” She whines as her nails dig into the sheets, pulling them from the corners. Her hips undulate, following the motion of the vibrations as the speed rises. Her head is thrashing. Her hips are grinding and her toes curling in her heels. It’s too much. It’s all too much but not enough at the same time. “I need more. I need you.” She whimpers. 

“You need me, baby?” He questions just wanting to see her beg as he stands directly between her trembling legs. He then starts creating patterns into the app. His fingers circle, tap and spell out his name into the control panel, watching as she screams for him. 

“Yes…” She whines desperately. 

He then crawls on top of her, positioning his crotch against her core. “Fuck,” He hisses, feeling the vibration against his hard dick. His hips start to hump uncontrollably.

She holds his neck with both hands, lips inches apart from his as she whispers. “Make me cum, Barry.” 

He bites his lip as tiny particles of static crawl up his spine. “Fuck…” His lips mold to her, kissing her with much passion as his hands dig into her thighs. He continues to grind, dragging his hips along hers. His lips then drag along her cheek, her jaw, and then the center of her neck until he sees her nipples protruding through the sheer fabric. He pulls down her dress, eyeing her breast with pure desperation. He then kisses one sloppily as he squeezes the other. 

Her legs wrap around him as her heels dig into his ass. “Barry, Barry, Barry, Barry…” She chants his name, nails raking through his hair at the feel of his tongue circling her nipple and the vibration jolting her clit. It’s too much, causing her limbs to clench and shake violently. 

“Cum baby. Let it all out.” He breathes as he continues to hump and his tongue continues to worship her breast. He then turns off the toy.

Iris slowly comes down from the high of orgasm as her limb twitches from the overflow of energy coursing through her veins. “That was…” She can hardly speak, trying to catch her breath. “That was amazing.” She says exhaustingly. 

“You're amazing.” He worships, kissing across her chest. 

Then there’s a sudden knock at the door. 

Iris huffs, knowing her limbs are still immobile. “Who is that?” 

Barry jolts up. “I’ll get it.'' His scheduled surprise is right on time. And to think they almost missed this to do some publicity for Harrison Wells. 

Barry opens the door. “Hey, is this everything?” 

“Yes, sir.” The bellhop answers as he pushes the rolling tray of an assortment of edible things toward Barry.

“Great, thanks.” Barry digs into his pocket. “And here’s a tip.” He hands the bellhop money. 

“Thank you, sir. You have a lovely time.” The bellhop nods before walking away. 

“Oh, I will…” He murmurs as he closes the door. He then pushes the tray into the bedroom. But he pauses as his mouth drops and his pupils dilate. 

Iris sits on her knees, naked in the middle of the bed. “Hi, handsome. You got something for me?” She flirts. 

He smiles goofily. “Um, uh yeah…” He starts removing the tops from the plates. “I got us fruit, french fries, brownies, mint chocolate chip ice cream, your favorite…”

“My favorite.” She bounces with glee.

He’s hypnotized by her breast bounces but continues on. “Um, I got random chocolates, mini sliders, champagne… and some edible body oil.” He mutters the last phrase with a smile. 

“Mmm, all sound delicious.” She says with her eyes only on him. 

He chuckles nervously. “Okay, so do you want any of this…” He points to the variety of different foods. 

“Um yes…” She crawls toward him, yanking on his tie. “And some of the food too.” She murmurs before pulling him by the lapels onto the bed. 

 MINUTES LATER

“Ooo,” Her eyes close, stuffing her face into the pillow. “Oh, my god.” She cries as her back arches. “Yes, Barry, right there. Right there.” She whimpers, biting her pillow as her body melts from his touch. 

He’s focused, beads of sweat collecting at his temples as he kneads the tight muscles of her shoulder blades. He sits, straddling her lower back in only boxers as he squeezes more oil into his hands. He then presses the scented oil into her silky skin, loosening her stiff muscles. Barry wants Iris to be relaxed. He wants her to be as loose and as laid back as possible for this upcoming reunion. 

He then moves down her back toward her ass, pushing the meaty tissue up and around. He grasps, kneads, and squeezes her ass, making it giggle as he stares lustfully. “Mmm,” Her ass, his favorite part of her body. It’s luscious. It’s round and cups ever so slightly, giving her the perfect hourglass shape. He loves it. He’s tempted by it. He gives it extra attention, gripping and rubbing it until it shines like gold. He then kisses both cheeks and nibbles a little before moving down to her thighs. 

He gets off the bed and pours more oil into his hands, rubbing them together. He presses his first into her thighs, kneading until he gets to her legs. He then ventures down, grabbing her foot as he presses his thumb into the sole. 

“Mm, Barry I love you. Your hands feel so good.” Iris can’t compete in this bubble of love. No, it’s not a competition but he’s definitely winning. How can she compete? 

He abruptly stops, causing Iris’s brows to furrow. “You’re done?” She questions, turning to look at him. 

He takes off his boxers. “Oh, I am nowhere near done with you.” He crawls onto the bed, back against the headboard as he instructs. “Bring that ass here and put it in my face.” He curls his finger, motioning for her. 

Iris’s smile is alluring as she straddles his legs and arches her back, giving him a full view of her ass and pussy. 

“Mm, so pretty.” He licks his lips and then starts to feast. His hands spread her open as his tongue swirls around her butthole. She grunts, face planting into the pillow as he pushes his tongue deeper. It’s an odd sensation that she isn’t used to but god does it feel so good. 

“Jesus, Barry…” She strains, nails clawing at the sheets. Iris is overwhelmed. She can hardly breathe, hardly move. Her vision is hazy and her limb is tense. Her skin is slick with a mixture of oils and sweat as he switches from his tongue to his thumb, making circular motions. She can’t take the pressure as her asshole tightens. 

His penis is throbbing, hardening at the taste of her. “I need to be inside you.” He rasps as he gets onto his knees and aligns his pulsating penis toward her sopping pussy. “Fuck, Iris…” He hisses as he enters her. She’s warm, inviting, and gripping him so tight as his pelvis slaps against her ass. “Iris…” He moans her name. He can’t control the moans that spill out of his mouth nor can he describe the euphoric sensation of being inside of her. “Iris…” He whines, hands gripping her ass as he watches his dick slide in and out of her. 

“Mmh,” She grunts as her body collapses against the bed. His weight falls onto her, hitting her at a slightly different angle that causes her eyes to roll close and her lips to part. 

“You feel so good, baby.” He slurs into her ear with one hand interlocking with hers and the other gripping her hip bone. His hips pound, skin slapping against the skin as his lips press to the junction between her jaw and ear. He then places his face against her, wanting to hear her shallow breathing and connect on a deeper level.

“You feel good. You make me feel so good.” She purrs with her hand pulling his hair, loving the pressure of his weight on top of her and his dick pushing into her warm pussy. Iris is receiving an immense amount of pleasure. So much pleasure that her pussy is dripping, her clit is throbbing and her thighs are quaking. “Barry…” She whimpers, hoping he understands the desperation in her voice. 

“I know baby. I know.” He moans against her lips as he starts to grind, rotating his hips the way that drives her crazy. “Gimme a kiss.” He mutters a command.

Iris closes her eyes tight as she kisses his lips. Her mouth opens and his tongue slides in. Their tongues make love, slipping and sliding and teasing the other as his hip continues to thrust. Their mouths are hot, passionately kissing as Barry continues to push and pull, enter and retract, shove, and remove, making her scream incoherently with need. “Baby…” She whimpers, feeling a powerful energy building in her lower regions. 

His hips move fast, feeling her pussy tightening and releasing over and over again. “You cumming? You cumming? Tell me. Tell, daddy.” He’s close too. He just needs a few more seconds, waiting for her to cum. 

“Yes!” She cries, moisture collecting under her eyelids as her thighs shiver and she gasps for air. Her orgasm is strong, more powerful than ever before as sparks of electricity pop at each corner of her pussy, causing her whole body to clench and her hand to fist, pulling Barry’s hair. 

He’s trying to hold it in as his abs tighten and his toes curl. “Fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck…” He closes his eyes, praying for his hips to stop fucking her. But his hip, his dick doesn’t listen as he spills his cum into her warm pussy. “Ooo, I love you. I love you…” He worships as his thrusting slows and his kisses become more romantic, tasting the sweetness of her lips. 

“I love you.” She slurs between passionate kisses. 

HOURS LATER

Iris finishes off her last brownie. “Mmm, that hit the spot.” She moans, licking her fingers. She’s on her back, laying next to him with her feet against the headboard, enjoying his presence and her full stomach. 

He rests against the headboard. “Mhm,” He hums as he tilts his head back, swallowing the last of his fruit cup. He was starving for food though now he’s kinda starving for something else as he watches the rise and fall of her chest. 

Iris presses her foot into his chest, forcing him to make eye contact as she too has the same hunger in her eyes. “Wanna fuck me?” 

He smiles wide. “Yes, ma’am.” He tackles her into the mattress. 

Iris giggles as their mouths and bodies melt into one. 

THE NEXT MORNING

He watches in amusement as she rushes from one side of the room to the other. He sits on the couch in shorts with his leg on the opposite knee and his hair a fluffy mess. Boy, did they have a time last night? His jaw and balls are pleasantly sore. Could he have gotten her pregnant? Maybe. 

“Daddy…” DJ whines. “You’re not paying attention.” 

Barry lifts the phone. “Sorry, son. I was just watching mommy. She’s rushing again.” He winks at his son through the phone. 

Iris plops onto the couch next to Barry. “I’m not rushing. I’m just moving quite swiftly. Mommy has a brunch to attend in five minutes.” She explains to her beautiful son. Iris misses DJ but keeping him in Central City was for the best. 

“So, rushing…” Barry teases, causing DJ to laugh and Iris to hit his arm before she jolts up, continuing to get ready. “What have you been up to Donnie?” 

DJ smiles. “Oh, I’m helping Poppa Joe build Jenna a playhouse and he gave me a badge of honor yesterday. Jenna and I play outside a lot with Zoë. Oh, and Zoë sleeps upstairs with us now.” He smiles proudly. 

“Wow,” Barry’s surprised as his brows raise. 

“Figures,” Iris grumbles as she tucks her shirt into her jeans. She’s not bitter.

“Yeah, well that’s all. I’ll talk to you tomorrow, daddy.” DJ runs to give the phone back to Poppa Joe.

Barry sits up. “Hey, wait… I miss you, buddy.” 

“I miss you too but GG Esther just made cookies.” He licks his dry lips. 

He sighs. “Okay, I’ll talk to you later. Love you.” 

“Love you, Poppa,” Iris yells with cheery intent. 

“Love you too.” DJ then hangs up.

Iris sits beside him, putting on her shoes. “You okay?” 

He fixes her flyaways. “Yeah, just miss him.” Barry’s feeling quite indifferent. He wants his son to have a great time with the other side of his family but… It’s just been him and DJ for so long. He might just have separation anxiety. 

“Well, we’ll be back in a couple of days. This is work, remember?” She pecks his lips. 

The doorbell rings. 

“Yeah,” He sighs. “I guess it’s time for your little brunch.” He teases with a girly voice and a roll of his eyes. 

“Stop,” She laughs as she hits his chest. “I’ll only be gone a couple of hours.” She stands, grabbing her purse off the bed. 

He stands, walking her to the front door. “Alright, just don’t come back here drunk, trying to take my virginity.” He jokes. 

Iris rolls her eyes though she laughs. “Shut up.” She then opens the door, seeing her friends and Linda standing on the other side. “Give me a minute guys.” 

Barry waves at all the girls, including Linda who rolls her eyes in disgust. He then does the same then Iris yanks his chin to look at her. “Sorry, do you have your wallet?”

“Yes,” Iris checks. 

“Your charger?”

“Yes,”

“Your lipgloss and makeup wipes?” He knows what his lady needs to have a successful outing.

“Yes and yes.” She looks through her purse. 

“Okay, have fun.” He kisses her lips. “But not too much fun. We have work tomorrow.”

“I know.” She lifts her chin, kissing him again. “Love you, bye.” 

“Love you too.” He says before closing the door. He then slouches onto the couch, scrolling through social media on his phone. 

Then there’s a sudden knock at the door. 

Barry abruptly stands as he remembers… “Right, her phone in my jacket pocket from yesterday.” He searches through his suit jacket on the floor, grabbing the phone. “Coming babe…” He rushes to open the door and…

BRUNCH AT TIFFANY’S

Linda is silent, surfing through the menu. Iris is quiet though grumbling under her breath as she sips from her glass of rosé. Gypsy is trying to be hopeful though hating this moment of silence as she rolls her eyes. Kamilla is just happy to be apart though it’s severely awkward at this round table. 

Linda speaks up. “So, Kamilla-”

“Yes,” Kamilla perks up, cutting Linda off. “Sorry,” 

“It’s cool.” She waves off. “I’m just being nosy-”

“As always…” Iris mutters through her sip of wine. 

Linda gives Iris a look from across the table.“Excuse me?” Linda has made many mistakes this past month but it was all for the betterment of her friendship with Iris. But somehow Iris knows the truth. And has been sending very mean texts since yesterday about it. 

“Oh, nothing. Absolutely nothing.” Iris smiles with fake delight.

Linda sighs. “Anyways Kamilla, is it awkward being here with your boyfriend’s ex?” 

“Don’t you think that’s a little inappropriate? It’s kinda personal.” Iris chimes in, giving her two cents. 

“No…” Linda responds curtly. “We’re all friends here.” 

“We are… Hmm, I didn’t know that.” Iris says with much sarcasm.

Linda stands abruptly. “You know what? I can’t do this anymore. I can’t keep trying to spare your feelings. I have a life too you know? It’s not always about Iris West…” She stresses. “Either way you’ll be jealous.” 

“Jealous, me jealous.” She stands, palms on the table. “Jealous of who? Jealous of you?” Iris laughs hysterically, hand on her belly. “That’s comical Linda…” 

“Bullshit.” Linda expresses. “I can barely tell you anything without you comparing it to yours and your precious little Barry Allen.” 

Iris’ nose flares with anger. “Linda, you wouldn’t have a job if it wasn’t for me. You barely pay rent and it’s never on time. You don’t have any goals or ambitions. You don’t have any standards though lucked up and got with my brother. You’re selfish as fuck… Oh, and let’s not forget that you are a fucking liar.” She says seriously with venom reeking through her vocal cords. 

Linda swallows, holding back tears. “Fuck you, Iris.” 

Iris grabs her purse. “Fuck you, Linda.” 

“Iris wait…” Gyspy stands with her hands raised. 

Iris walks toward the door. “Peace, see you at the reunion girls.” Iris throws up the peace sign before exiting. She feels vindicated in her action. Though her heart just sunk to the pit of her stomach. 

“Well, this was fun…” Kamilla cringes, praying that the reunion is nothing like this. 

   BACK AT THE HOTEL

Iris enters the suite with shopping bags in each hand. “Babe, you won’t believe the day I had. Can you believe that Linda…” She suddenly stops when she doesn’t see him on the bed or in the bathroom. She then throws her bags onto the bed. “Babe…” Iris calls but he doesn’t answer. Her brows then knit in confusion as she slowly walks into the entertainment room. 

She sees him sitting on the sofa with a blank stare. Instantly she knows something is wrong. “Barry, what’s going on?” She then sees the glass filled with dark liquid on the table. “Barry, please tell me you haven’t been drinking?” She desperately hopes and begs that he hasn’t. 

He shakes his head. “No… But I want to.” He can’t believe what’s happening. He can’t believe what she’s done. 

Iris sits beside him, nails running through his hair. “Babe, tell me. Talk to me.” Iris then spots some papers on the coffee table. 

He doesn’t utter a word. He simply grabs the stack of paper and hands it to her. He’s speechless. He can’t believe she would take things this far. She’s evil and extremely asinine if she thinks…

Iris scans through the documents. Her brows then raise as she blinks, hoping her eyes are deceiving her. “Marlize’s threatening to sue if we talk about her or DJ at the reunion,” Iris says in disbelief. 

He nods. “It’s a cease and desist letter. She had someone hand deliver it to me earlier today.” 

Iris’ eyes expand. “At our door!” She raises her voice but notices that Barry’s energy isn’t the same. What’s wrong with him? Noted she’s never seen him drink but… “You sure you haven’t been drinking?” 

He gives her a look as his jaw tightens. “No,” 

Barry understands. His girlfriend, the love of his life, his everything is worried about him. He has no doubt in his mind that she doesn’t trust him… It’s just this is different. It feels different. 

Iris exhales. “I’m sorry.” She rubs his back. “I know you wouldn’t… I shouldn’t have asked.” She kisses his neck. 

“It’s fine.” He desperately wants to drink though. Just a taste. He just wants to feel the tingle on his tongue. The burning of his throat. The warmness that generates from his body and the hazy mind so he can’t think. He wants that feeling so badly. But Iris… But DJ…

Iris stands, rushing toward her purse for her phone. “You know what? I’m gonna call my mom and get her to draft something up real quick. Marlize will not ruin our trip and will not ruin our life.” She then notices him standing, walking out of the room. “Where are you going?” 

He needs a moment of solitude. He needs a moment of nothingness. And he can’t do that here. He needs to be alone, just for a moment. So he slides into his coat and heads toward the door, purposely forgetting his phone. 

Iris chases him toward the door. “Baby…” She calls with tears building behind her eyes. 

“I’ll be back.” He hangs his head low, knowing he’ll burst into tears if he looks at her. “I just…” He swallows hard. “I just need a minute.” He then exits, not wanting to hear her beg because he knows he’ll stay. He’ll always stay for her. 

Iris stands there alone, wanting to chase after him but also wanting to respect his wishes. She’s saddened that things keep popping up, getting in the way of their happiness. She’s also disheartened, knowing that he’ll be blaming himself for others’ misbehaviors.

 From his knowledge he’ll be gone for minutes though, in reality, it’ll be hours. But he comes back. He always comes back to her. He’ll just be a tad bit closer to his breaking point. 

  LOVE ISLAND WRAP PARTY

He walks into the party. He stays in the shadows, not wanting to be seen as he sits alone in the back. He’s been walking, thinking for hours, letting his legs work on autopilot as his brain overthinks. 

He thought she was bluffing. He swore she was. Her words are always laced with puffs of air and untruths. But now, he’s not so sure. Perhaps this time her threats are promises. Perhaps. But he can’t take that chance. Not with his son.

He sees Iris sitting in the front, looking as beautiful as always. She’s sitting while in conversation with his brother. She shouldn’t have to keep going through this because of him. He doesn’t deserve her. 

Iris sees Barry, bruting in the back. “Can you talk to him?” She asks Cisco, more like begging. He’s been gone for hours and she knows he’s just been coasting but she worries. She’s always worrying about him. 

“Of course,” Cisco reassures. 

Iris pushes her drink toward him with a knowing look. 

Cisco nods in agreement as he stands, walking toward the back. Iris didn’t tell him much. She was pretty vague but he’s sure it’s nothing nice. He can tell just by looking at his brother. He’s dressed to the nines in a three-piece suit but looks like the devil himself. This information must be bad. This information must be about little Donovan. “Here. Drink.” He pushes the drink toward Barry. 

Barry’s movements are stiff with a permanent scowl on his face as he gulps down the drink. Then his eyes suddenly widen as the burning sensation pierces his throat. It’s too late. He can’t spit it out as he swallows. “Cisco, what the fuck… Why’d you give me alcohol?” He grunts hoarsely though secretly loving the buzz rumbling through his veins. 

 “I didn’t. She did.” Cisco nods over to Iris staring from the front of the room as she sits alone. 

Iris understands that feeding into his vice will do more harm than good. But she also knows that he’s useless without his son. He’s been away from him for some days and he’s struggling. Iris is just trying to prevent the biggest disaster with the tiniest bit of temptation until they return to Central City. That’s all. 

“Hey,” Cisco grasp his brother’s attention with a snap of his fingers, stopping his longing stare. “DJ’s mother is full of shit. She is manipulative and a liar. You know that better than anyone.” Barry’s jaw clenches. “So stop letting her control your life. Don’t let her or this…” He gestures toward the empty glass. “Dictate your emotions. Don’t let her ruin what you’ve built with Iris. You know she’s jealous. You know she wants what she can’t have. So stop feeding into it.” He stresses. “DJ and Iris are your family, your home. Marlize and this drinking are the past. So stop letting the old and forgotten destroy what’s right in front of you, waiting and wanting your attention and love.” His brother has never had a love so honest before and Cisco won’t allow him to ruin it. “Now go over there, kiss your lady, and apologize for leaving her alone for hours.” He nudges Barry to stand. 

Barry then stands without another word. His lips tighten into an inch of a smile as he looks into her longing eyes. He then gestures with a nod of his head for her to meet him in the back of the room. 

Iris understands as she quickly stands, rushing to the back of the room, away from prying eyes. Iris then comes face to face with the love of her life. 

“Hi, beautiful.” He caresses her cheek and her eyes fall close, basking in his warmth. God, does he love her. She is everything and more. 

She then opens her eyes and smiles. “Hi, handsome.” Her finger interlocked behind his back with a warm embrace. “I missed you.” She whispers into his chest. 

“I’m sorry.” He whispers into her hair. “Sorry that I left you alone.” He kisses her head.

“But you came back.” She smiles, hugging him tighter. 

He pulls back. “Of course, I’ll always come back to you.” He grabs her chin, kissing her softly. “But listen to me.” He turns severely serious, looking deep into her soul. “Don’t ever do that again.” He knows that she knows what he means. Her eyes soften as she nods. “I don’t need it. The alcohol does nothing but cause chaos and makes me someone that I hate and that you don’t recognize… All I’ll ever need is you.” 

Iris is smitten as she melts into him. But she’s still worried. “You love me?” She asks only to hear him say… 

“More than anything.” He’s sincere more than he’s ever been. “You’re my life and only future.” 

“You’re mine too.” Iris presses her lips to his. She’s lost in the passion of his kisses and his hands on her hips. “Let’s get out of here. I need you alone.” She purrs against his lips with alluring eyes. 

“You read my mind, Ms. West…” 

BACK AT THE HOTEL

His eyes are fixed on her and her eyes are focused on him. He stands at the end of the bed, taking his time with his clothes. He loosened each button. He kicks off his shoes and socks. He slips off his coat and shirt and pushes down his pants and briefs. He stands bare in front of her, teasing her as his penis jumps with pride. 

“Stop teasing me, baby…” She voices with a soft whisper. Her bottom lip gets caught between her teeth as she lusts over his body. His gorgeous, toned frame and proud penis pointed at her. She lays on the bed, naked with her elbows propping her up and pushing up her breast. 

“You know me.” He boasts, flexing his muscles. “You know how I play.” He crawls onto the bed and grabs her feet. He then yanks her by the ankles and she gasps as he pulls her to the middle of the bed. 

“Well, you don’t play fair.” She cocks an eyebrow with a sexy stare. 

He kisses her toe. “Never…” Then sucks on the others. 

“You really like doing that don’t you?” He is such a freak and she likes it. 

“You are enjoying it aren’t you?” He counters with a smart attitude. 

“Maybe.” She responds with the same tone.

“Then maybe I like having them in my mouth.” He sits on his knees as his lips worship her feet, kisses, and sucking. “But not as much as I love having your pussy on my tongue.” He opens her legs and then nestles his head between her thick thighs. His pupils dilate and his mouth salivates as he stares at her pussy. “God, you are so pretty.” 

She blushes. “I know.”

He kisses the left thigh and bites the right. “And taste so good.”

“I know.” She licks her lips timidly as she watches him from below. Her mouth then falls open as moans escape from her lips. She feels his lips kiss along her slit then his tongue parts her lips as he makes out with her pussy. 

“Mm, mm, mm…” He purrs, loving how she tastes as the tip of his tongue circles her clit. He can feel it enlarge and beat against his tongue. Oh, she’s close and so soon. “Already baby, I just started.” He murmurs between kisses and sucks. 

Her mouth opens to say something smart, something flirty but only moans and heavy air passes through. His tongue is so powerful, more skillful than before. What did he learn and who must she thank? He’s been different this trip. His words are still loving but more sensual. His thrust is more proficient like he’s unlocked some master cheat code that can instantly make her orgasm in minutes. And his mouth… God, his mouth is sinful. The ways he kisses her. The way his tongue worships her. It’s overwhelming. It’s… It’s… “Barry…” She yells as her ass levitates off the bed and her eyes squeeze shut. 

He sucks hard, feeling the heartbeat of her clit pounding against his tongue. His hands dig into the meat of her thighs, keeping her grounded as she quakes and shivers in orgasmic bliss. 

“Fuck…” She breathes, coming down from her high. 

Barry kisses up her body. His teeth and tongue nibble on her sweet skin. He then comes face to face with her, adorning her beauty as he nestles between her legs. 

“You like what you see?” She teases.

“I love it.” He loves her more than himself, more than life. His son and his girlfriend are his world and he will never allow anything to take him away from them. 

Iris then sober, hands on his jaw. “I love you, Barry. I am in love with you.” 

His cheeks redden as he blushes. His next statement might sound crazy and ill-timed but he so desperately wants to ask… “Do you want to have my babies?” He teases his penis against her slick pussy, grinding against her. 

He is no longer affected by any of the outside noise. He once let it destroy him but never again. Marlize can say or do whatever she wants. He is no longer focused on it or her. He only wants his family. He only wants Iris. 

“More than anything…” 

THE REUNION 

He fiddles with his cufflinks. He bites the inside of his cheek. He cracks his knuckles. He continuously taps his black oxfords against the luxury vinyl. Barry’s on edge, standing at the end of a line of cast members, waiting to be called by the host. 

Cisco turns, hearing his brother’s constant sighing. “Hey,” Cisco grasp his attention with a hand on his shoulder. He can tell Barry’s nervous, constantly going over the what-ifs. “She’s bluffing, man. She’s bluffing.” Marlize will lie and scheme just to get her way. She doesn’t want DJ. She wants Barry’s attention. 

“I know.” He assures. “Thanks, Cisco.” He daps up his brother as their fist knocks against each other. 

“Anytime,” He then looks over at Iris standing beside Barry. “Iris, looking stylish as always.” 

“I try. I try.” She poses with a stunning smile. 

Then a dazzling voice booms over the intercom. “Now introducing the laughable, the loveable, Cisco Ramon and his perfect match, Kamilla Hwang.” 

“Duty calls.” He grabs Kamilla’s hand before walking through the curtain. 

The rush of excitement rushes through Iris’s veins as she hears the crowd of people cheering. Iris is excited, ready to burst at the seams but then she notices… “You look handsome, sexy.” Her nails drag along his freshly cut beard. 

“Thank you.” He flushes. “You look…” His eyes wander over her silhouette. He’s aroused by her silky skin and legs for days. “You look absolutely stunning, extraordinarily beautiful, perfectly gorgeous and so out of my league.” He can tell that he may have gone a little overboard as her smile stretches. “Too much?” 

Iris cringes. “It was a bit much.”

“Sorry,” He apologizes, scratching the back of his neck. 

She smacks his arm. “No, no, don’t apologize. I love getting compliments from my man. I loved the sentiment.” She lifts on her toes and kisses his cheek as her nails graze the other side of his face. “Are you ready for this?” 

His lips spread into a smile and then he interlocks their hands. “Ready for anything as long as we do it together.” 

She blushes. “Together.” 

“Last but definitely not least let’s present to our live audience and the millions watching at home the new faces of this franchise. She is our darling of Central City and he was just named the sexiest man for the month of February. This couple is the ultimate perfect match and melts our hearts with their love. Let us give a roaring round of applause for Barry Allen and Iris West or better known as West-Allen”

Barry and Iris walk out hand in hand and the crowd lifts onto their feet, applauding with a standing ovation. Iris is overwhelmed by the praise as she waves and smiles at the many people in the audience. Barry on the other hand is stiff, uncomfortable with the amount of attention as the women in the crowd gawk over him. 

He then leads Iris up onto the stage, helping her up the stairs. Iris takes her seat closest to the host and Barry sits beside her. 

The host stands. “I am your host, Leanna Aguilera and I would like to welcome you all to the Love Island Reunion.” 

The audience cheers loudly and the cast applauds. 

Leanna then sits. “Well, hello everyone.” She looks around the stage, greeting the cast. 

“Hello,” Ronnie and Caitlin greet.

 Cisco solutes and Kamilla smiles.

“Hi,” Patty greets from the end of the stage, sitting in a plush pink dress with security standing behind her. Patricia Spoivot does not want to be here but she is under contract. So, she will speak her peace and be out, going back to her single life. 

Barry then becomes aware of Patrica’s presence. Sadly, for the second time, he’s forgotten about her. But she looks okay, healthy. Either than that he has no feelings or thoughts in regard to her. 

“Linda Park, how are you?” Leanna asks. 

“A little tired but good,” Linda answers, sitting opposite Iris. 

“Oh, nonsense. You look great and glowing.” 

Wally panics, tugging on his collar. 

Linda doesn’t respond, only waving off the compliment bashfully. She does not want to bring unwanted attention toward herself or her flowy dress.
“Ronnie and Caitlin, looking like the fairytale couple as usual.” Leanna compliments. 

Ronnie smiles and Caitlin says. “Thank you,” 

Iris’s lips spread into a small smile. She’s happy for Caitlin and Ronnie. Though she wishes she had some surprising news to tell that she could bask in. It will all come in due time. She believes that and Barry’s upcoming appointment will prove it. 

Leanna’s brows raise, surprised by this person’s attendance. “Eddie’s surprised that you made it to the reunion stage after all the backlash you received.” 

Eddie cringes. “Yeah, well I thought it would be for the best to show my face and give my deepest apologies to both Barry and Iris for my behavior that night on the island.” Just like Patricia, Eddie did not want to come but Harrison Wells had other plans and gave him handwritten notes to remember. 

“We accept your apology, Eddie,” Iris responds.

“Yeah, no hard feelings.” Barry doesn’t remember him anyways.

Eddie’s thankful for their acceptance. Maybe now the public can stop hating him. 

“How did everyone feel about that night of Eddie and Barry’s altercation?” 

“Confused,” Wally answers.

“Very confusing.” Cisco snort. “The men had a good night out then Eddie kinda just started drama out of nowhere.” 

“Yeah, it was a lame and cowardly move in my opinion.” Gypsy cocks an eyebrow at Eddie. 

“I agree.” Linda nods. “There was already so much going on with Iris, Barry, and Patty… It kinda seemed like Eddie had ulterior motives to get Barry kicked out of the island.” 

Eddie sighs because it’s true. Harrison Wells wrote the script and he followed it, thinking he would end up being the fan favorite in the end. “Again, my sincerest apologies to all of you.” 

“Now Eddie you received a lot of backlash from this season as well as Ralph Dibny, Allegra Garica, Becky Cooper-Stein, and Scott Evans.” 

Barry's hands ball into a fist at the mention of the real coward's name.

“But you seem to be the only one to show up and apologize for your mistakes.” The host acknowledges. 

Eddie’s lips lift quickly. 

“But who needs those antagonists when you have these beauties, Cynthia, Kamilla, and Iris? How are you girls doing?” 

“Great, just glad to be here.” Kamilla leans into Cisco. 

Gypsy swallows down her jealousy. “I’m great as well though I would prefer to be called Gypsy.” 

“Gypsy it is.” The host then turns towards Iris. “And Iris my god, look at you. You look amazing and you seem to be glowing as well. What do you attribute that to?” 

“Mmm,” Iris taps her chin. “I would say money and mind-blowing sex.” She smiles as her tongue glides over her teeth. Iris is getting the hang of this business. This reunion is about being liked and it seems to be working as the crowd abrupts into gasps and applause.  

Barry’s tongue roams over his cheek with a smirk. 

While Patty rolls her eyes. 

“Come on Iris.” Wally gruffs under his breath. He does not want to hear about his sister’s sex life. 

The host’s brows raise. “I like that. We will have to get more into that later. But for now, let’s answer some fan questions.” Leana pulls out her notecards. “This question is from Flawed_Beautifully03. Cisco, you sure did move on quickly from Gypsy. Is Kamilla a rebound?” 

Cisco panic. “Uh, I don’t believe so…” He doesn’t elaborate because he doesn’t know what else to say. 

Kamilla and Gypsy both notice that fact. 

“SillySheyra asks will Cisco and Gypsy get back together in the near future.” 

Cisco starts to sweat at the temples. 

“No, I think that ship has sealed. Cisco is happy and I am happy for him.” Gypsy answers the best she knows how trying to help her ex save face. 

“Thank you.” Cisco mouths and Gypsy nods. 

“Michelle116 asks Ronnie if Caitlin has experienced the big “O”

“Um, maybe you should ask her.” Ronnie smiles.

Caitlin blushes. “I can happily say that I did.” 

Iris starts clapping, proudly. 

“Good for you girl.” Linda jokes, making the crowd laugh.  

“Next question is for Iris from NaviahBritton. How does it feel to be the baddest bitch alive!” 

Iris stands from her seat and struts to the middle of the stage. She poses and shows off her outfit as the audience cheers her on. “It feels amazing…”

Barry cups his hands around his mouth, shouting. “Woooo,” 

“Work, bitch.” Gypsy praises. 

“That you are.” Leanna joins in on the praise. 

Iris then sits. “Thank you.” 

“Linda, this question is for you. How did you know that Barry would be Iris’s perfect match and is that the reason why you pushed for Iris to mingle with him during the first few episodes.” 

“I didn’t. I didn’t know at all. All I wanted was for my best friend to have fun.” Linda answers honestly. “Iris had a rough two years and Barry was just so different. He has random tattoos and a rough exterior yet he came off as clumsy and shy at the first meet. He’s nerdy on some occasions but charming during most. He’s rough around the edges and can be quite mysterious but then so gentle in his approach… Honestly, I just picked the person that was the polar opposite of her ex. Little did I know that Barry was a diamond in the rough.” 

Linda may still hold lingering feelings regarding Barry’s mistreatment of Iris. But it’s kinda hard to be angry with him when Iris’s smile is so angelic. 

Iris dabs at the corners of her eyes. Her old friend expressed some kind words. Iris is still very much upset with Linda but that was nice of her to say. 

“Thanks, Linda.” Barry appreciates the compliment. 

“Cisco you kinda had the same agenda in regard to pushing your brother to pursue Iris. Give me a reason why you chose Iris and not any of the other women on the island.” 

“Oh, that was all Barry. He did all the choosing and couldn’t keep his eyes off of her.”

The crowd gushes. 

Barry turns toward Iris and smile. She then grabs his face, squishing his lips as she kisses him. 

Patty gawks in disgust. 

Cisco continues. “And I believe the reason he was so charmed by her is because honestly, Iris is the kindest person out of all of us on this stage and probably in this room.” 

Gypsy and Wally agree. 

Iris blushes, smitten by his words. 

“Iris is pure grace and the true embodiment and essence of understanding and love. She is everything that Barry needs… Iris is his perfect match.” Cisco knows that Iris being his brother’s perfect fit is the simplest revelation he’s ever had. Cisco knows his brother all too well and knows that Iris is everything Barry needs and so, so much more. 

Leanna is smitten as well. “That was really nice. Barry, would you agree?” 

“He took the words right out of my mouth.” Barry intertwines his hand with Iris’s. 

The audience awes and melts. 

Linda’s lips thin into a small smile, now understanding just how perfect Barry is for Iris. 

Patty on the other hand is clueless and doesn’t understand as she rolls her eyes and scoffs. 

“Patty, you seem to be mumbling over there. Do you have something you would like to say?” The host asks. 

Everyone’s attention turns toward her.

 “This whole thing is just laughable to me. Are we really gonna act like Iris is the princess that needs saving and Barry is prince charming?” Patty is irritated and so frustrated. “This guy was literally a certified fuck-boy less than a year ago!” She yells waving her hands about. 

The audience reacts, shocked by the information. 

Cisco disapproves, shaking his head. 

Barry ignores her, refusing to give her the attention she wants.

“He lied! He lied to her multiple times.” She stresses. “He refused to tell her the name of his ex. That’s a red flag. He miraculously forgot all about me and whoever else he was fucking back in Central City. That’s another red flag. Then he shows up at my place after, after…” 

Iris can’t take this anymore. “I think that’s enough. I think you have said more than enough.” Iris makes direct eye contact with the woman that wants to be her enemy. “All of us, me especially, know he isn’t perfect and best believe I am no one’s princess in distress.” 

Patty leans forward in her seat. “Well, you could have fooled me.” 

The room is silent and everyone's attention is on the two women that have nothing in common but their knowledge of Barry Allen. 

“I’d heavily advised that you keep my girlfriend’s name out of your mouth.” Barry’s dead serious as he looks at his old friend for the first time and feels absolutely nothing. Not even hate. Just nothing…

“Or what?” She challenges.

“It’s okay, honey. I got this.” Iris calms Barry with a gentle hand on his thigh. She then leans forward just like the woman in pink. “What is this? Why is this a thing for you?” She questions with the motion of her hands. “Aren't you tired, Patty… You must be exhausted with people always comparing you to me. You must be sick of being invited onto shows just to discuss me. You must be so worn out, having to use the likeness of me for camera time. You must be so drained and angry.” Iris pouts sarcastically. “It’s all over your face… But you might not want to frown too much. It ages you, gives you wrinkles.” Iris has never been a fighter. She much rather kill someone with her words… and this read was a knockout as Patty stares, speechless.

Patty’s brows furrow in anger, causing her forehead to crease. “Aren’t you tired, Iris… You must be sick of having to cover for him. You must be drained from taking care of someone else's kid. You must be burnt out from keeping up that fake facade.” She then stands with every eye on her. “You must be so sad…” She mopes, poking her bottom lip out. 

Iris fist balls and Barry’s jaw tightens. 

Patty continues. “We all know about the records. Your health records. Seems that he had you fouled too huh?” Patty once thought she was pregnant too. But it seems that her old friend is still having the same health issues.

“Bitch, sit your ass down.” Linda gruffs. 

“It’s okay, Lin.” Iris then stands. “You know I never thought I’d meet a woman like you.” She then takes a step closer. 

Patty becomes weary but keeps her stance. “A woman like what?” 

Iris snorts as she cracks the smallest smile. 

Wally swallows deeply, knowing his sister is about to rip this woman apart. 

While Barry watches silently, hating this Iris has to continue to fight his battles. But it’s a battle that she takes personally. 

“A woman that is so desperate. So, miserable. So, afraid.” Iris takes another step. “You, Patty are ignorant. You are dangerous and you are just a lousy excuse for a woman.” Iris looks into Patty’s fearful eyes, standing toe to toe with her. “I feel sorry for you. The fact that you would hate on me just because of who I'm attached to is laughable. You, Patty, are a joke.”  

Security then appears from the back but they stay out of sight, anticipating what happens next. 

Patty holds her breath and her legs tremble though she keeps face. “Get out of face. What are you gonna do? Hit me?” 

Iris snorts. “No, I don’t need to put my hands on you to get my point across. I use my words… But it seems that you are kinda fearful of me, seeing as you hired security.” Iris then turns her attention to the hired bodyguard in the back. “Hi, Roy…” She waves and he reluctantly waves back. 

Patty blinks rapidly, unable to move. 

The crowd gasps.

While Cisco and Linda enjoy the show. 

“Yeah, my cousin knows quite a few people back in Central City, including the agency you hired from. See, you never win when you play dirty. Besides, I would never put my hands on some weak-ass, bitch ass Karen like you anyways. I wouldn’t want to mess up my expensive full-set that my man paid for.” 

The audience abrupts in gasps and laughter. 

Cisco stands, applauding loudly. 

Iris high-fives Linda as she sashays back to her seat. 

Barry smirks, tongue rolling over his teeth. 

The host is stunned speechless as she watches Patty run backstage. “Uhh…” Leanna presses her finger to her ear as Gideon’s voice booms through her earpiece. “Okay um, it is definitely time for our commercial break. Love Island Reunion will be right back after a quick message from HR.” 

The stage goes dark and the cast is ushered off the stage for a new segment. HR stands in the corner, under a single spotlight. 

HR: Hello, it’s HR, your favorite speaker in a box. Did you miss me? No, not even a little? Okay anyways, let’s talk about the first half of this reunion. It got quite spicy up on that stage or should I say steaming hot because Iris West set it aflame. She read BA’s former friend to shreds and left no crumbs behind. And I am quite sure that she is far from done. But in the meantime let’s announce our host, Leanna Aguilera back onto the stage to introduce our next segment.  

“Hello, everyone and welcome back to Love Island Reunion. We chose to change things up a little bit, giving some of our cast members a break backstage. So, here we have Linda, Gypsy, and Iris.” 

The crowd cheers and the girls waves from the shared spaces on one sofa. 

“Hello ladies, are you ready for some fun and spicy questions?” The host wasn’t given specific notes. But Gideon did insist on a more lighthearted segment that would balance the intensity of the first. 

“Yess, wooo.” Linda cheers from the end of the sofa. 

“Yay,” Gypsy cringes from the middle and Iris just nods happily from the seat closest to the host. 

“Earlier on in the season while picking your perfect matches, who was the first person that stood out to you?”

Gypsy answers first. “I would have to say Cisco. Yeah, I was into the long hair and jokester attitude from the jump.”

“This is weird for me but I was into Cisco as well.” Iris cringes, remembering how willing she was to match with anyone besides Scott.

“I was just there for moral support,” Linda answers. 

“You most definitely did Ms. Park. Why were you pushing for Iris to have a good time and not a long time if you know what I mean?” 

“Um, because Iris hadn’t had the best luck with men… Well, besides that one guy Reshawn.” Linda teases.

“Linda…” Iris reprimand though she’s laughing on the insides, knowing Barry is gruffing in the back. 

“Who is this Reshawn?” The host questions.

Linda opens her mouth but Iris interjects. “Nobody, let’s move on to the next question.” 

“It must have been good,” Gypsy mumbles under her breath as she laughs. 

Iris simply shoulder-checks her friend, wanting her to shut up though her lips tremble with laughter.

“So, out of you three, who got the wildest on the island?”

“Gypsy.” Iris and Linda say simultaneously while laughing.

Iris is supposed to be mad at Linda but her old friend is making it so hard. 

“... and don’t regret a single thing,” Gypsy says smartly. 

“Who had the most fights?”

Linda huffs. “Oh good lord, Cisco, and Gypsy argued at least once a day.”

“... and don’t regret that either.” Because the making-up was insane. 

“... and who said the big “L” word first?”

“Of course, Barry…” Iris answers proudly.

“I did…” Linda answers as well.

“Um, Cisco did.” Sadly, she was never able to say it back. 

“Who became instantly attached to their perfect match?”

Linda and Gyspy point at Iris. 

Iris shrugs. “I’m a hopeless romantic.” 

“Hm, so what happened in Vegas?”  

“What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas,” Iris says and the crowd boos. 

Linda interjects. “Our suite became a whore house.” 

“I disagree with the whore house thing. There was none of the sort going on in my room.” Iris says with faux innocent. 

“Yeah, nothing that required you to get on your knee.” Gypsy teases. 

Linda burst into laughter. “It’s true.” 

Iris’s mouth falls open. “Shut up.” 

The host then centers on Iris. “I think we all want to know what went on behind close doors between you two.” 

“Ummm…” She drags while blushing. “You know? We did what most young couples do…” She lingers, scratching the side of her neck. 

“Which is?” Gypsy wants her to elaborate. 

“Fine, we got a little handsy and Barry’s a really good kisser.”

“And what parts did he kiss?” Linda interjects again. 

“Linda…” Iris warns playfully. 

“The audience wants to know right?” Linda amps up the crowd.

The crowd then cheers loudly. 

Iris rolls her neck back. “Barry and I shared an intimate transaction.” 

“So, everything up until the tip.” Gypsy teases. 

The crowd goes crazy with laughter as well as the host. 

“I hate you guys so much.” Iris hides her laughter. 

“We love you.” Gypsy leans her head against Iris’s shoulder. 

“Yeah, and she loves us.” Linda expresses. 

“Ugh, I love seeing this.” The host gushes. “Ladies, tell us how you forged this friendship?”

“Well, Iris and I were already friends.” Iris agrees with a lift of her lips, still contemplating if she wants to be mad or not. “We met in college and we just instantly clicked and it was the same with Gypsy.”  

“You girls do have quite the friendship. Tell me what made it click instantly for you three?” 

Iris purposefully stays quiet. 

Linda sucks her bottom lip into he mouth.

“Because we’re honest,” Gypsy says matter of factly. “Neither of us is afraid of judgment or afraid to show our flaws to one another.” 

“Tell us some of those honest moments… If you don’t mind.” 

“Mm, I remember telling Iris about Becky showing her goodies to Barry. And though they were going through a little rough spot I think Iris appreciated knowing what ole girl was doing behind all the girls’ back.” 

“I did indeed appreciate it.” Iris wasn’t surprised at all. She expected that behavior from Becky. But what she didn’t expect was Becky to be married before the end of the year and actually help her and Barry escape her packed reception. 

“I think my honest moment was telling Linda and my brother that I was okay with them being together.” It’s somewhat true. “Like I could have easily been selfish because…” Iris pauses as she twists her lips to one side, feeling moisture pierce her tear ducts. “Because I don’t want to lose either of them and I don’t want to have to choose my friend over my brother or vice versa…” 

Leanna passes Iris a tissue while Linda, herself tries not to get choked up. 

Iris dabs the corners of her eyes, careful not to mess up her makeup. “But I have learned that it’s not about me. And they just want to be together and happy and I have to accept however that looks… I have to be okay with it.” Iris is just scared. Linda and Wally are moving so fast and she constantly wonders what’s the rush. But it’s not her life nor her relationship. She has to learn how to just be happy for them without an opinion or judgment just like she would like from them in regard to hers. 

Iris continues. “I am so sorry, Lin. I don’t want to fight with you. I just hate that you felt like you had to lie to me. That you had to hide life-changing information from me…” One tear falls from her eye. “Just please let me be happy for you.”  

Linda reaches her hand across Gypsy, grasping Iris’s. “I will…” She nods with tears in her eyes. “And I am so sorry too. I should have never lied to you. I just didn’t want to crush you.” Linda’s biggest fear is coming true. But somehow it has turned into her miracle but Iris’s disaster. Linda was sure Iris wouldn’t know how to handle this news but somehow she does. Somehow… “You're my best friend and I love you. I only ever want what's best for you and at the time I didn’t think this news would bring any hope to your life.” 

Gypsy’s brow creases in confusion. But she stays quiet. This isn’t her moment as she sits between two best friends apologizing to each other. 

Iris is confused as well but continues on… “Congratulations, Lin. You guys will be great together.” 

“Thanks and same with you and Barry.” Linda stands, gesturing to her friends to stand with her. Linda then wraps her arms around them as they enter a group hug, laughing and embracing. 

The host smiles. “Besides, the romance and matchmaking there is also room for friendship on Love Island.” The stage then dims as the spotlight glows on HR. 

HR: THAT WAS THE NICEST THING I HAVE EVER SEEN! I AM GUSHING FROM EAR TO EAR! I LOVE IRIS WEST POSSIBLY SOON-TO-BE ALLEN.

HR: This segment had the right amount of spice and seriousness and I loved it. Loved the sincere apologies exchange for reasons I know nothing about. Oh, and also congratulations to Linda Park for… Well for… Okay, I have absolutely no idea what there could be to celebrate but congrats to Linda and Wally. I guess… Now, back to our scheduled program. 

HR: Wait, hold on… I’m getting something in my earpiece. Hmm, it seems that we’re having a little trouble between castmates backstage. It appears that one of them refuses to join the other onstage for this upcoming segment. Luckily, we do have cameras in the cast's breakroom. The footage might be a little wonky but the audio is crystal clear. Everyone please turn your attention to the overhead projector and watch. 

He watches her from across the room with a furious glare. His brows crease, making him frown. His knuckles pale from gripping the leather of his chair so tight and his jawbone tightens as tension builds in the thin air.  

He can’t believe he once called her friend. He can’t imagine the fact that she was almost his. His stare then becomes more irate, watching as she has an animated argument with Gideon. She flings her arms, cocks her neck, and snaps her fingers as if she’s the one calling the shots. Though it is the total opposite. She’s an embarrassment and he feels not an ounce of sympathy for her kind. 

“Just get the fuck out of my way Gideon.” She shouts with mascara stains smeared down her face. Patty is fed up and sick to her stomach. She’s tired of dealing with the backlash and embarrassment. She’s only human and what makes matters worse… The one person she once called friend won’t even help redeem her character as he sits, pouting in the corner, waiting for his girlfriend in hair and makeup. 

“Patricia, calm down,” Gideon advises with her hands raised to keep this employee calm. “Let’s talk in your dressing room.” She motions for security to open the door. Patty and Harrison and HR and Kamilla have been working Gideon’s last nerve. Kamilla is used to being behind the camera and not in front so she’s panicking every fifteen minutes. HR is overselling his reactions. Harrison is being Harrison and Patricia is being a total diva. 

“No…” She shouts with a stomp of her foot. “I am not staying at this dumb-ass reunion. You got your material. You got your footage and money shot of little miss damsel in distress throwing unwarranted insults my way… I mean what more do you want from me?” Patricia turns red with anger. 

But she isn’t the only one as Barry burns with rage. He grinds his teeth, desperate to stop his angry outburst but… “Patty, I’m serious. Stop speaking on my girlfriend.” 

She breathes heavily. “... or what?” 

“Simple, cease and desist.” He lifts his leg onto the other with a sophisticated aura. 

Patty’s chin trembles. She’s seconds from bursting with rage, saying… “You are so mean to me! This attitude and rage of yours, where does that come from? Do you hate me that much…” She stresses with mascara staining her dress. 

He rolls his eyes. 

“You roll your eyes but it’s true.” 

“Yeah, that’s your truth so, believe it.” Barry stays calm and casual because this person no longer matters or moves him in any way. 

“I… You…” Patty stutters. She doesn't know how to argue by herself. His passive aggressiveness irks her but also saddens her. He’s not the same person as before. What happened to his fight and emotional rage? He’s totally different. Does she contribute that to Iris? It is always about her. 

Patty then turns red with envy. Her inhale is sharp as she pushes out. “You made me a promise. You promised me that you would come back. You promised, Barry that this was secure, that I was safe to trust you.” 

Gideon pleads with clasped hands, wanting this to be in front of a live audience with expensive cameras. 

But Barry ignores her. He is not discussing past relationships period. It’s a form of disrespect to the woman he’s with. Though he will confront this situation backstage in front of staff and security. “I did promise and meant every word.” 

Patty’s tears dry and her anger subsides. 

“But then I met Iris…”  

Her shoulder slump as she plops into the empty seat across from him. “I’m afraid to ask. But what was it about her that made you forget me?” 

He lights up, remembering the exact moment. “It was the moment she made me smile.” 

“Damn, I think I’m playing the wrong game. I’m coming off as such a nerd.” 

“An adorable nerd.” Iris winks.

“She then made me blush…” 

 “Wow, you have an excellent pallet and good taste.” 

“Yeah, I have good taste in a lot of things.” Iris flirts. 

“Iris, made me laugh, almost choking actually…”

“Oh, so you like black girls.” 

He starts coughing profusely, choking… 

“She made me feel hopeful.” 

“Where did you come from Iris West?” He’s lost in her eyes.

“I’ve always been here Barry Allen.” And she’s lost in his. 

His lips then thin into a wide smile. “... and lastly, she made my heart smile.” 

“I want to be with you, Barry, and would never purposely hurt you.” 

“Patty, it was never my intention to fall in love. I just did.” He shrugs. “... and this may come off rude but I can no longer apologize for it. Iris and our son are my life and I don’t need much else.” 

The entire cast except Iris has been ushered into the break room, and ordered to silent bypassers while the conversation continues. 

Gideon subtly directs the staff to leave so the security cameras can get better angles. 

“Our son??” She inquires.

“Yeah,” he nods. 

Patty then understands how serious he is. “I guess…” She lingers, trying to muster up the courage to say. “But what if she didn’t exist.” 

He sighs. Patty still isn’t getting it but he’ll oblige. “Then yeah, we would be together.” 

She tries hiding the smallest smile. 

“But it would end just as fast and we would grow to hate each other.” 

Her smile fades. “Why, because you would cheat.” 

“No, but you would constantly think I was.” He then stands, walking toward her. “... and that doubt would drive us apart. Because you’ve only seen the worst parts of me. So, you couldn't possibly understand or appreciate me at my best.”

 “Wow…” Patty’s speechless because he’s right. She’s never seen him at his best and isn’t sure if she could learn how to differentiate the opposite sides of him. 

Barry holds out his hand to attain peace. 

Patty lifts from her seat and takes his hand. 

The cast continues to watch silently. 

He then places his other hand on top of hers. “Patty, I wish you nothing but the best in all your endeavors and hope you find happiness. You deserve it.” Though his old friend has done some horrible things he has not done the best by her either. So, he means every word. He hopes that she finds someone that’s nothing like him. Someone better than him. Her perfect match.

“Diddo…” She smiles. This is what she wanted. For him to be honest and acknowledge his wrongdoings. 

Iris walks into the room with fresh touchups to her hair and makeup. She doesn’t interrupt the conversation because she knows what it’s about. The finale and ending. 

“Hey and who knows, perhaps we could be friends sometime in the far future.” She shrugs with hope in her eyes. 

“Nah…” He shakes his head, releasing his hands from hers. “I could never be friends with a person who puts Iris and our son’s well-being in jeopardy.” No, he hasn’t forgotten about the time she withheld viable information from him in regard to his son. He understands her pettiness but the information she withheld could have changed the tragedy of that entire night. So, because of those facts alone, no he will never want to be friends. 

“Right…” She nods in understanding. “I apologize for that…” 

He cuts her off. “Goodbye Patty.” He then turns and spots Iris with a charmed smile on his face.

Patty swallows down sorrow and regret. “Yeah, I’m gonna go, Gideon.” 

Gideon got her money shot. She no longer needs Patricia’s services. “Sure…” She guides Patricia toward the exit with her hired bodyguard in tow.  

“You okay, handsome?” Iris asks with a gentle hand on his chest. 

“I am now that you’re here.” God, he loves her, and the fact that she can still make him blush. 

THE WEST-ALLEN SEGMENT

“Now introducing the couple of the hour, West-Allen!” The audience cheers with another standing ovation as West-Allen walks hand in hand onto the stage and shares the sofa together. “You guys are quite the pair and our fans relished in watching you two fall in love… and to think you, Iris almost missed out on your perfect match because of an almost disqualification.” 

“Yeah…” She drags with lightheartedness. “But I couldn’t do it. I had to refuse to sleep with a stranger.” She also refuses to sleep with her Scott. Though it is quite weird that not a soul has mentioned his name once. 

“Yet you slept in the bed with Barry on the first night.” 

Barry smirks, crossing his knee over the other. 

Iris rolls her eyes with playful intent. “I did but it was more of sharing a bed with my best friend rather than a stranger.”

“But you two did end up in each other arms, correct?” The host interrogates with the same playful behavior. 

Iris’s teeth scrape against his bottom lip, reluctantly saying… “Yes, we did.”

“She couldn’t keep her hands off of me, Leanna.” Barry teases and the crowd laughs. 

Iris half chuckles, wanting the teasing the turn onto Barry. “Ask him about the situation on the hammock.” 

“I was getting to that.” The host answers gleefully. “Bur first, Barry you seemed to fall head over heels in love after the first recoupling ceremony.” 

“Yeah, I did.” He agrees, knowing Iris is smiling. “I was dead set on picking her and then Eddie beat me to the punch.” 

“... and what can you say drew you to Iris?” 

“I mean look at her…” He gestures with his hand, motioning over her body and face. “Though honestly, Iris came off strong. She was very flirtatious but it was her smile and charming personality that drew me in.” 

“That’s what made her different from other girls? Because let’s be real you’ve been deemed as quite the ladies’ man before going rogue from the street of Central City.” 

“Well, that was a nice way of putting it. Thank you.” He appreciates the host’s wording choice. “But I think what made Iris different was her beauty in all aspects of the word. Which made it uncomfortable for me to pursue other women or let alone remember anyone from the city.” 

Iris’s stomach warms with butterflies as she watches him talk so highly of her. She finally got a good one. Iris will marry this man and have all his babies just like she’s always dreamed of. 

Iris then hears the answer to another question the host asked. “... yeah, it wasn’t on purpose and I know this will sound so rude and inconsiderate but… she was forgotten the moment I saw Iris. Yes, we were friends for seven years, and was trying to be more for two but Iris made it too easy to forget her.” He pauses, waiting for the crowd to go against him but it never comes as they listen intently. He then continues. “I never had to try with Iris. Everything between us was effortless and secure and safe. So, I fall hard, head over hills.” 

The audience melts as well as the host. 

Barry doesn’t like the attention, resulting in him laughing nervously. 

Iris helps as she tickles his kneecap, hoping to distract his nerves. Her man has recently started hating being the blueprint for the female gaze. He hates all the attention. 

“You indeed fell hard. So hard that you decided to blurt it out in the heat of an argument. What was going through your mind at the time?” The host questions. 

“Fear…” His answer is simple but holds so much weight. “It was apparent the moment it escaped from my lips and it horrified me… To be vulnerable with her, knowing her feelings for me were tainted. It terrified me because I felt like my heart was in danger… and I made it worse because I got so frustrated with her and myself. I hadn’t begged to be loved in so long… and my pride kept me from telling her sooner, in a more romantic way but my desperation made me needy for her to love me back.” 

Iris dabs the corners of her eye. The moment was intense but she never realized how raw and vulnerable the situation was. He was fighting against his insecurities and she was fighting against her feelings for him. But it all worked out in the end as she smiles while combing through the side of his hair. 

“... and what about you Iris? How were you feeling?” 

“Mmm, very indifferent.” She answers honestly. “I was already in love with the person he presented to me but then his friend showed up and described this person that I never met… It was all confusing for me because I felt that he was being honest but also withholding viable information.” So was she. “Which made me question his authenticity but then I forced myself to be open and understanding and then he showed me who he truly was…”   

“Which is??” The host inquires. 

Iris faces Barry. “The love of my life, of course.”

The audience simpers and Barry smiles wide. 

“I love you…” He mouths. 

“I love you…” She repeats. 

“Ugh, you guys are too cute.” She then looks at notecards. “Okay, so about this famous hammock, what went on during those nights on the swing?” 

 “Lots of kissing.” Barry quips. 

“Woo,” Cisco screams from the back. 

Iris then sees all the cast sitting in the back row watching.

Iris laughs. “I assure you, Leanna we did more than kissing… sometimes.” She cringes and Barry snickers. 

“Well just in case you guys forgot about those many clandestine meetings on the hammock. We have unseen footage of one revealing night. Everyone, please turn your attention toward the big screen. 

Iris’ gaze follows the outline of his tattoos.“Do these have a story?” Her hand roams up his arm. 

His skin flushes from her touch. “Um, random things… Quotes, memories, and names. Like this one…” He stands, stripping from his shirt.

Iris’s skin heats in the summer night as she subtly licks her lips. 

“Uh, this is my son’s name.” His fingers brush over Donovan’s full name. 

Iris then stands, soft fingertips outlining the name. “It’s beautiful.” 

He smiles. “Thanks, he thinks so too.” Man does he miss his son. 

“Do you plan on adding more?” She prays her question is as subtle as it sounded in her head. 

“Ummm…” It wasn’t subtle at all. “Someday, yeah.” 

She hopes she hadn’t scared him off. “You know I’ve always wanted to get a tattoo.” 

“Yeah?” He grabs her arms, putting them around his neck effortlessly. 

“Mhmm,” She blushes. 

“Of a significant other’s name, flowers, quotes, or future children?” 

Her fingers graze the nip of his neck. “All of the above.” 

His hands then smooth around her waist. “You know I do plan on adding more.”

“Yeah?” She questions with an unmovable smile. 

“Mmm, I would get all my children’s names all on one side of my chest, closes to my heart, and my wife’s full name right here, across my neck or collarbone.” He explains that… “My children will represent my heart and my wife represent the air that helps it beat… and the two will work and mesh together always.” 

Iris’s smile makes her eyes sparkle. “That was the corniest shit I’ve ever heard.” 

Barry burst out laughing as his face falls onto her shoulder. 

Iris then sobers. “But the sentiment was beautiful, Barry.” 

“Thank you, Iris.” He then kisses her sweetly. 

“Awe…” The viewer in the audience watches the scene in wonderment. 

“That was the sweetest and corniest thing ever.” Cisco cries with sniffles. 

“It so was…” Wally agrees, trying to hold in his emotions. 

The screen then goes black and the attention turns back to West-Allen. 

“Wow, that was so delightful to watch.” The host pouts. “Well Barry, Iris, do you plan on getting those tattoos anytime soon?” 

Iris does a nervous laugh. She wasn’t serious about getting a tattoo. She’s petrified of needles. Tattoos are just nice to look at and pleasant to kiss. 

Barry can feel the nerves radiating off of Iris. He knows she’ll punk out if the opportunity presented itself. “Mm, no time soon. Iris is not my wife.” He jokes. 

Iris laughs as well as the cast in the back. But the audience and the host don’t. “Is marriage something you both are looking toward?” 

“Yes,” He answers without an ounce of hesitation. 

“Yeah, I would love to marry this goof.” She elbows his ribs. “But I think it’s best for us to live in the present and look forward to the future.” 

“I agree.” Barry nods. “... and out of all the couples we have been together the shortest amount of time. So sharing a life together under one roof is a huge step for us and it gives us a chance to catch up to the other.” He explains. 

“Great answer.” The host then gets a question from Harrison Well in her earpiece. “Iris, I know this question is personal but how are you doing after the false pregnancy?” 

Barry’s teeth clench and hot air push out of his nostrils. Iris’s health is none of these people’s business. 

Iris places her hand on his knee, calming him. “I’m fine, no complaints.” 

“Do you mind-”

“She does mind…” Barry cuts her off with a tight-lipped smile. “... and if you don’t mind I would like you to move on to the next question.” He will not subject Iris to this prodding and scrutiny. 

The host pauses, listening to Harrison on the other end. “Sure thing… Do you mind if we talk about the breakup?” Leanna questions with gentle intent. 

“Sure,” Iris answers. She much rather talks about that.  

“Could you explain why you two broke up?” 

“I lied.” He answers plainly. “I lied straight to her face.” 

Barry wants those watching to know that he isn’t as perfect as the media makes him out to be. Iris is the real gem. 

“... and did this lie have anything to do with Patricia?” 

Iris has shut off all feelings regarding this situation. It’s the past. 

“Yeah, and it was the worst and best decision I made.” 

The host is speechless and the audience is taken aback. 

He raises his hands. “Yes, I know it sounds crazy. But those that watched the episode that night know it was intense and living it was a nightmare.” 

He’s just glad Scott Evan isn’t here or he’ll be living another nightmare. 

“It all happened so fast and I reacted… and no, I don’t care how aggressive or hostile it made me seem. That night threatened the well-being of my home. Iris and our son was terrified… Neither has seen me so combative before. But I don’t regret it.” Barry will never regret fighting to protect his home or his sanity. 

He sighs then continues. “What I do regret is not being able to come down from that high. I couldn’t control it so I left. I didn’t want to subject Iris or him to this violent side of me that had no control. So, I ran to the one place that I did.” He shrugs as moisture builds on the rims of his eyelids. “I went to Patty that night because I knew that I could get away with being reckless and that she wouldn't question it. I was rash and careless with Patty but I couldn’t do the same with Iris.” 

Iris doesn’t know how to feel or respond. So she just stays quiet. 

His lips twist to one side, desperate to hold in his emotions. “... and I told Patty that in so many words and she didn’t like that. So, we argued and it just riled me up even more. So by the time I got back…” Slow tears fall from his eyes. “Iris then experienced a side of me that was cold and toxic and riddles with pain.” He sniffs, wiping his tears roughly. “You know she didn’t deserve that and I was aware that I ruined the best thing that ever happened to me. And I tried to save it, to save us but it was too late and Iris then couldn’t see me in the same. So then I had to change while trying to move on because Iris was done with me.” 

“Wow…” The host is moved by his words as well as the audience. There isn’t a dry eye in sight. “... and Iris how’d you feel? How did you ultimately take him back?” 

The host hands Iris a tissue. “Thanks…” She daps the corners of her eyes. “Mmm, I felt kinda slighted. It was insulting because I’m his help mate. He should never need anyone else but me… and so, when he went to her I immediately thought the worst… and though the worst wasn’t as bad the realization of his action was still enough for me to leave.” 

Iris has forgiven Barry ten times over and yet she would never change the outcome of her actions. Which was leaving. 

“...and honestly, if I didn’t have the inkling of being pregnant then he and I would not be together.” Sadly, it’s the truth. Iris’s false pregnancy is what pushed them back together. “Barry and I had a few encounters and he knows how stubborn I am. So, regardless if we slept together, hung out, or saw each other in the city. Both of us would force ourselves to stay away from each other.” 

Barry curtly nods in agreement. If it wasn’t for Iris’s abrupt pregnancy he would still be with Eva. 

Iris then continues. “... him and I are together because neither of us hurt the other in a way that would cause more detrimental pain to our past.” 

“You mean cheating?” The host inquires. 

“Mhmm,” Iris nods. 

Iris has only one deal-breaking and that’s cheating.  

“I see…” The host then gets another question from her earpiece. “Would you say it’s hard raising a child that was created out of such pain and infidelity?” 

Iris stays silent. It isn’t her question to answer. 

“No, never.” He shakes his head. 

“Do you have full custody?” 

“Yes, and my name is on his birth certificate.” 

He doesn’t know what he was thinking. He was so frightened at even the thought of Marlize taking DJ away. But now he realizes her case will be a hard battle. Barry has legal guardianship and Marlize relinquished her rights. It’ll be quite hard for her to get them back. 

“... and how is that… living together while raising a toddler?” 

“It’s quite adventurous and revealing. The kid is super smart and curious about everything. He is witty and clumsy. He’s so attentive and a great helper.” She gladly explains. “... and he is so much like Barry. That is his son and twin.” 

He bumps knees affectionately with Iris. “Yeah, he’s everything good in the world. He makes it such a delight to be his parents.” Man does he miss his son. 

“Hm, our son has been a recurring phrase tonight. Iris, do you plan on adopting his son?” 

It’s crossed her mind but… “That’s not a question for me to answer. There must be multiple conversations and a consensus between the mother and child. But honestly, it’s something I do look forward to.” 

Barry beams, hopeful for the moment when mother and son share the same last name. Iris and Donovan West-Allen. 

“Speaking of things to look forward to what will West-Allen be getting into on Valentine’s Day tomorrow?”

Iris turns toward Barry expectantly. 

The audience laughs, including Leanna. 

“Well, if you must know we will be spending Valentine’s Day with the little one. We’ll be taking him to some of his favorite places then later that night Iris and I will be going to some writer’s museum in the downtown district. It’s gonna be a fun night.” It’s not as quite romantic but he knows Iris still struggles with her writing. So, perhaps looking at other famous writers’ work will help.

Iris’s lips tug upward though on the inside she’s feeling quite indifferent. 

“Awe, how romantic…” The host places her hand on her heart. “Iris, how do you keep up with this guy?” 

Yeah, that’s what she’s been failing to do. “Umm…” 

Barry can’t take this anymore. “Wait, hold on…” He lifts his hand, stopping this harmful rhetoric. “Iris, you do not need to answer such nonsense.” 

Iris nods solemnly as she releases a breath. 

He’s tired of this shit. “You all should know the truth about our relationship. There is no competition between us, if so, there is no room for me to compete. Iris does so much that you all don’t see or that some would perceive as small. But to me those little things make me the happiest.” His eyes burn as moisture pieces his eyes. 

Iris breathes, not wanting to burst into tears. 

The host purposefully keeps quiet though Harrison Wells advises against it. 

Barry then continues. “Iris has been watching me and inquiring about my mental and emotions because she knows how desperately I would much rather be at home with our kid. None have noticed her constant hand on my knee and chest and back, giving me those affirmative touches because she knows just how terrible yesterday was for me.” 

Cisco cries with a trembling chin as he sucks his bottom lip into his mouth. 

Gypsy reluctantly places her hand on Cisco's back but jolts back, realizing his girlfriend's hand is already there. Awkward. 

“Iris has granted you all access to certain aspects of our relationship because that’s what you all want to see. You want to see the fantasy that was produced for clicks and likes. You want to see the drama. You want to see Iris and the old friend I was involved with argue and fight over me. You want to see Iris cry and grovel over our false pregnancy. You want to see her as the damsel so then I can swoop in and save her.” He pauses for dramatic effect. “... but little do you know I’m the one that needs saving.”

“Iris has shown me such grace. She has been next to me through all the chaos that I caused and you all neglect to see… So yeah, I lavish Iris with gifts and romantic gestures because that’s what she wants and deserved… and because I fucking want to.” He means every word as the audience listens intently. 

“Iris deserves a love that is proud and rewarding. It helps her feel peace and respect… and I feel loved from her touches and embraces. Her kisses and caresses and her words of affirmation that heal those ramped insecurities and doubts that I have.” 

Barry's intention for this reunion was to be laid back and chill but the fake and phoniness causes him to go into protective mode, exposing things that he shouldn’t. “You all watching and those in the audience listening love me because of her. You all see the best in me because of her.” He places his hand on her knee. 

Iris becomes overwhelmed with emotions as tears fall from her eyes. 

Linda is crying as well. 

Barry smiles as he turns toward Iris. He then wipes her tears with his thumb. “Iris is great and talented and charismatic… and you all are so lucky because you’ll get to see exactly what I see in her on our show that will debut this summer.” He purposefully announces, knowing Harrison Wells is turning red with anger. It’s payback for all the chaos this show has caused. 

The audience roars with applause and positive chatter. 

Iris’s mouth falls open in shock at what he just did. HR was supposed to make the announcement but it seem that her boyfriend had other plans. She’s kinda glad that he did, seeing as Harrison Wells wanted to just exploit them for ratings. 

The host’s eyes widened as Harrison Wells’s voice intrusts her too. “Thank you, Barry, for those insightful and revealing words. Now, I think it’s time for some words from HR, our speaker in the box while the rest of the cast joins the stage for our closing statements. 

HR: (tears pouring down his face.) Thank you BA, I hadn’t realized how just amazing Iris West was. Please accept our apologies for not realizing how much of a darling Iris is. (takes a breath.) BA sure knows how to drop the hammer on these haters all while promoting his lady and their new show. Yes, ladies and gentlemen, West-Allen will get their own spin-off show that is produced by our darling, Iris West… and the show will be called: Honey, we’re not on Love Island anymore. (He geeks out.) ISN’T THAT CUTE?!!! Anyways, it’s a tale of family, business, and romance and will debut this summer on this network at 8/7 central. See you all there because I will be watching. Now back to our closing statements by our lovely host, Leanna Aguilera. 

The lights turn up and the stage goes bright as the audience applauds. “Welcome back to the final and closing statements of Love Island Reunion Special.” The host then turns her attention toward Iris. “So, Iris, you have an upcoming show coming out. Can you spoil us with some details?”

“Sadly, I can not spoil anything but I can promise that you will see less romantic drama and more romantic comedy.” Iris is excited about this new chapter in her life and also excited that her cousin and friends will experience it with her. 

“... and I’ll be looking forward to watching.” The host turns to her left. “Linda, you must have some surprising news or updates that you want to fill us in on…” 

“Nope…” She shakes her head. “This is top secret and our family’s business.” Linda winks at Iris from across the stage. 

Iris yet again is confused. She has no clue what her friend is speaking of. Her moving in with her brother is pretty public so…

Wally’s hand then rests on Linda’s stomach. 

Iris’s heart stops. 

“That’s fair.” The host acknowledged Linda’s privacy and then moves on. “Ronnie, please help me end this reunion off with a bang, seeing as the last two want to be spoiler free.” She teases. 

Ronnie blows out a puff of air. “Yeah, sure…” He then stands and immediately gets on one knee.

The crowd goes crazy with cheers. 

Barry’s jawbone tightens as he swallows down his jealousy. 

Iris on the other hand can not contain hers as her brows crease into a frown. Though her anger is not with this corny proposal.

Ronnie pulls out a squared box and starts his proposal. “Caitlin…” 

Iris can not hear a thing. Her eardrum refuses to listen as her vision becomes piercingly sharp. She eyes the couple across from her with such resentment.

Linda is shaken to her core. She’s never been on the receiving end of such hatred from her friend. Linda can tell from the glossy look in Iris’s eyes that she misunderstood. Iris thought she was getting engaged. “Iris, please forgive me…” She mouths with desperation written on her face. 

Wally is stunned speechless. Iris wasn’t supposed to find out like this. 

Barry is enraged as the pieces of Iris’s rehabilitation and strength crumble before his eyes. 

“Caitlin Danielle Snow, will you marry me?” Ronnie asks with most of the attention on him but the camera is directed at Iris. 

“Yes!” Caitlin leaps into his arms as the audience cheers. 

Iris’s hands somehow function as she claps for the boring couple. Her hands press together slowly. Her posture stiffens and her lips tighten. Her eyes are brazen and her perception changes within seconds. Linda Park is a liar, selfish bitch, and soon-to-be mother…and Iris knew all along. She fucking knew.

THE NIGHT BEFORE CENTRAL CITY

He sees her. He listens to her. He watches her stomp, fuss, and curse at the mirror as she brushes her teeth. Iris has been worked up since the reunion ended. She talked and cursed and rambled the whole car ride back to the hotel. He on the other hand hasn’t said a peep. He’s been in his head with thoughts of the past. Thoughts of the past that harm his future. 

“Ughh, fucking knew it…” Iris gruffs and then washes her mouth out. “She’s pregnant. She’s pregnant with my brother’s baby.” She tosses her teeth brushes onto the counter then grabs the mouthwash, gurgling it in her mouth. “Fucking bitch…” She mumbles incoherently. “... and, and…” She spits out the burning liquid. “... and that little brother of mine. Psh, he’s no better. Fuck him too.” The phone then beeps. It’s a reminder for her birth control. 

Iris suddenly stops fussing and pauses as the alarm continues. Her anger subsides and desire and greed wash over her. Then with swift motion, she stops the alarm from blaring through the suite. She does not want to disturb him or grant his attention from where he’s stationed on the couch working on his laptop. 

Iris grabs her pill out of the stale packaging. She can feel bile burning her throat as she debates the impossible. “Iris, don’t…” She reprimands into the mirror. “... don’t do this.” She whispers though her limbs reject the command from her lips as she rinses the pill down the drain. 

“....” Her heart is beating fast as shallow breaths push through her open mouth. Iris then turns with hesitancy, desperate with the hope that he did not just see the setback that she just made. “... woo.” She sighs as her hands press into the counter and her shoulder slump and her head fall. “...” She closes her eyes and takes another breath, glad that he didn’t see. He did not see her impulsiveness. The same impulse that caused her a strong belief in her false pregnancy.

But he did. He turned with sadness in his heart as he listened to her optimism and confidence be washed down the drain. Her sorrow is his fault. His inabilities caused this. “...” His breath is heavy, filled with despair. 

Iris walks into the room with renewed delight. “Handsome…”

He then straightens like nothing happened as he looks up from his laptop with raised brows. “Hmm?” 

She closes his laptop. “This is our last night alone and you choose to work instead of admiring this.” She twirls in her silk robe with an excited grin. 

“Sorry,” He smiles though his mind races. “What would you like to do for our last night, Iris Ann.” He teases. 

Iris’s smile turns seductive as she drops her robe. “Guess…”

His pupils dilate and his tongue slips through his lips, coating the bottom. His eyes then roam her glistening skin that’s scantily covered in lace. “No, tell me what you want.” he removes his laptop and then pulls her onto his lap. 

“... want to pin you to his sofa and fuck you.” 

His shorts get snug. “Mmm,” He moans with a cock of his eyebrow. “Your wish is my command, boss.” 

Iris breathes a laugh then presses her lips to his. Her hands in his hair and his on her ass, gripping and squeezing… and then with much grace, he unhooks her bra, letting it fall off. Her hands then rip his shirt over his head, flinging it behind her. 

He kisses her with much passion. 

She kisses him with much desperation. 

“I am so proud of you Iris.” He breathes against her lips. 

He loves her and only wants good things for her. But her hatred for Linda is causing her to slip and tamper with their happiness. 

Iris caresses his face. “... thank you, babe.” 

Iris can’t allow any more space for words or she’ll vomit. She’ll reveal her impulsive mistake, ruining their last night. Iris just needs this moment of passion before morning’s reality diminishes her growth. 

Iris then continues to kiss him, moaning at the feel of his tongue in her mouth. Her pelvis pushes forward and her nails dig into his neck, keeping his mouth pressed to hers. 

It feels like peace, getting lost in him. His hands on her hip bone and his hardened dick teasing her as she grinds. It’s rousing and mind-numbing as her body burns for him. “Baby…” She groans as his lips descend, sucking on her breast. 

“I love you, Iris.” He worships as his lips attach around her nipple. 

Iris’s smitten and her loins ignite with desire… and also something else that’s potent. It’s deep and heightens to the masses. Iris senses that it’s familiar and desperate. “Oh Barry, you are everything to me.” The impulse inside of her causes her to turn serious as her eyes pierce his. 

His kissing stops and his hands still.

Iris then smiles, pushing his hair off his forehead. “We are next you know…” 

His forehead creases. “... what’d you mean?” 

Iris shrugs innocently. “... you being a daddy again.” She then notices his confusion turns to disappointment. “Did I say something wrong…” 

“Iris… He sighs with sadness laced through his voice. 

She then jumps to conclusions. “Barr, she will not take DJ from us. I promise you, okay?” 

“It’s not about her…” His head lowers in despair. He’s upset, not with Iris but with the chaos that chases him. Linda’s truth just caused Iris months of progress. His wants still match hers. But now hers are filled with desperation and not optimism. 

“Then what?” Iris questions. “Tell me. Talk to me.” She holds his face and pleads. 

He has to ruin this night and tell her the truth. “Iris, I saw you.”

Her brows knit in confusion. 

“You…” He breathes suddenly. “You didn’t take your pill.” 

Iris panics and it shows on her face. It then changes to disbelief as she snorts. “What? No, no, no, I…” But she can’t lie to him. It’s not in her. 

Her eyes then gloss over with tears as she abruptly stands. “Yeah, you know what. It did slip my mind. I don’t know. It’s just been a crazy day. Let me go take it right now.” She thumbs toward the bathroom before turning on her heels. 

But then he stands and grabs her. He hugs her with his chest to her back. “There’s no point. It’s okay.” He whispers, holding her tight. He then feels her body shake with tears. “Hey, look at me.” He turns her to face him. “I’m not mad, baby. I understand your frustration.” 

Iris understands his lingering implication. “Barr, I will never be jealous.” 

“I know…” He also knows that it’s a lie. Iris isn’t aware of her subconscious protecting the truth. “But it must be hard, right? I mean it’s hard for me.” He must admit that he’s disappointed. This news stole the focus from Iris and has the potential of stealing from his son. Can the West split their love for their first real grandchild and the surrogate one? 

“Yeah…” Iris’s voice trembles as she falls into his chest and cries. 

He holds her tight, bare chest to bare chest. His eyes then brickle with tears as panic sets in. “It just makes me wonder… What else is coming? What more is coming.” He cries and plops onto the sofa with his head in his hands.

Iris senses his fear as she kneels before him. “Baby, please stop.” 

He listens and goes silent. 

Iris then lifts his head and brushes his hair back. “We are Barry and Iris, soulmates and nothing is taking our happiness. Not my doubt or your fear, okay?”

He nods solemnly. 

Iris kisses his lips. “You and me together.” 

“Together always…” Barry repeats with hope in his heart. 

Iris then wipes his tears. “Oh babe, our future is gonna be great. 

His lips then spread into a warm smile. “With you anything is possible.” 

Iris snorts at the cheesiness. “Now come make love to me.” 

He stands as fondness warms his heart. “Let’s make some babies.” 

Iris’s lips widened in delight. “I love you, Barry Allen. 

“... and I love you, Iris West.”   

NOT SO MUCH AN ENDING…

The Past: Whether the past has been dealt with or not it’s always good to revisit certain situations just to see if there are any lingering issues there.

The Present: But I think it’s best for us to live in the present and look forward to the future. 

The Future: You two are in love and communicate far better than most couples but regardless things will continue to pop up in your relationship. And it’s up to you BOTH to handle the situation head-on TOGETHER.

Barry and Iris’ love has surpassed most and outlasted all. Their compassion has healed their past. Their humility and intimacy have preserved their present and their friendship and forgiveness have sealed their future. West-Allen has no end, only a forever because honey, this isn't love island anymore.