31st October- Canary Islands, Spain
Brian and Mia’s beach house
Leon’s POV
I was holding Ava as she intently watched Alexis who was on Brian’s lap. It was quite a funny site the two of them; Ava had never really been around another baby before. The ten month old was happily sitting on my lap, every now and again reaching out to touch the other little girl’s hand. Everyone was watching the two while we sat around talking.
“So what are your plans?” Mia asked smiling as Ava laughed loudly at Alexis.
“I’m not sure, I have to speak with Letty.” I said quietly.
“Ava seems smitten with Lexie, and vice versa.” Gisele said smiling.
“They look very similar…” Mia trailed off eyeing me.
“Do they? I hadn’t noticed.” I lied as I place Ava on the ground sitting up. She looked up at me smiling cheekily, I raised an eyebrow at her look; nothing ever good came from it.
“Where are you going miss?” I asked as she leant forward starting to crawl away.
“Mama.” She giggled before Roman got down on the floor to play with her.
“Mama?” Mia asked as I forced myself to look away.
“Come on Leon we’re not stupid, she’s either Ana’s or Letty’s.” Brian said as he placed Alexis stomach down on the ground. Almost immediately Ava crawled over to have a closer look.
“Given that she looks a lot like Alexis, I’d bet anything that she’s Dom’s.” I just shrugged and said nothing as I passed a ball to Ava to play with.
“Well?” I looked up at Mia as everyone waited for an answer.
“She’s mine.” Everyone all looked up startled at Dom’s voice. He was coming through the door, Letty hot on his heels behind him. He was glaring at me angrily and I knew by the look on her face, and his, all hell was about to break loose.
“Dom wait…” I pleaded as I quickly stood up , Brian quickly picking Alexis up off the floor as Dom started towards me. Ava squealed loudly as Roman picked her up and stepped out of the way.
“Dom what’s wrong?” Mia asked as she fled to her brother’s side. I stepped forward a bit but Dom swung forward landing a punch to the face. I stumbled back and everyone was left staring wide eyed at us, except Letty who was yelling at Dom to stop. By the look on his face he had no plans to stop, instead we both went crashing to the floor, throwing punches. I got a few good ones in, pleased I was able to get him back a little after everything he had done to Letty and the team.
Roman, Brian and Tej were finally able to pull us apart, Brian pushing Dom backwards as I picked myself up.
“Dominic for fucks sake.” Letty yelled as he tried to get around Brian to punch me again. Letty’s yell had set Ava off into quiet sobs, the little girl reaching out for her mother. Mia kept her out of the way as she tried to soothe her.
“What’s wrong? What’s not wrong? I thought we were mates Leon. Or did everything in LA mean nothing to you?” He demanded. I chanced a glance at Letty, seeing her apologetic look as she tried to pull Dom away.
“We are mates.” I tried as I looked back at Dom.
“Really? I wasn’t aware that ‘mates’ slept with their friend’s girlfriend.” He roared as everyone stopped and stared between us.
“Hang on a second just everybody calm down for a minute, we’re not going to get anywhere with yelling. Explain what’s going on?” Brian said stepping in between me and Dom.
“I was right about them.” Dom spat as he shot me a raging look. Taking a deep breath I shook my head.
“It just happened Dom, it was unexpected to both of us.” I explained.
“And that’s supposed to make it okay? Just because it was never planned?” He asked yelling once more as I flinched a little.
“You can’t really be mad man, you slept with Elena…we’ve seen the pictures. That’s how the whole thing started in the first place.” I said quietly.
“Pictures?” Brian asked confused but Dom wasn’t listening.
“The fucking point Leon is that I thought she was dead- gone and never coming back. You both knew where to find me and yet you slept together. You promised me nothing would ever happen between you two.”
“I don’t know what to say Dom other then I’m sorry.” I said quietly.
“Sorry? Yeah, yeah I bet you are Leon, I bet you’re real sorry.” He yelled shaking his head.
“Back off Dominic it’s as much my fault as it is his.” Letty stated as he turned on her.
“Do you honestly hate me that much Letty that you had to get me back by sleeping with a friend, someone you once thought of as a brother?” I frowned, starting forward again at his tone.
“Don’t speak to her like that.” I snapped as he turned his attention back to me.
“Was it just the once?” He asked suddenly. I stayed silent not knowing what to say and letty stayed silent as well, telling him all he needed to know. Almost immediately everyone took a step forward ready to hold Dom off yet again as his face showed his anger.
“You promised, back in LA you promised me you’d never make a move.” He spoke deathly quiet.
“I’m sorry. I can’t say it enough.” I said sadly.
“No you’re damn fucking right you can’t.” He boomed so loud I swear the house rattled. Before anyone else could say another word a loud wail rang out, startling Alexis into tears as well.
I calmed down significantly as Letty immediately took Ava from Mia as she bawled. She stared over at me as she rocked the little girl, who was clearly upset by the way she was clinging to Letty. Ava buried her head in Letty’s shoulder as her cries echoed loudly through the room.
“I think we’re done for today; unless you have more plans to upset your daughter?” Letty hissed quietly at Dom who stood looking between Letty and Ava.
“I’m sorry; I didn’t mean to upset her. I’m just…can’t you understand where I’m coming from? Was this some sort of pay back?” He asked lowering his voice.
“No, it wasn’t; it just happened. Believe it or not I can understand because I’m sure it’s the exact same way I felt when I found out about you and the cop. The pictures say everything.”
“What pictures?” Brian asked again confused.
“Leon we need to leave.” She said ignoring Brian again and I nodded, moving forward.
“Like hell, Letty we just spoke about this outside.” Dom cried out in anger.
“I’m not leaving the island Dominic, I’m leaving the house. I told you what I had to do.”
“Then you can stay at my place tonight.” He ordered while she shot him a look that could kill.
“I don’t think so.” She snapped.
“I don’t mean with me, I usually stay here with Mia and Brian. It’s just until tomorrow.” He assumed.
“I don’t think it’s wise Dom.” I said quietly.
“Of course you wouldn’t. Would that make it hard for you, trying to sleep with my girlfriend in my house?” I scowled at Dom.
“Oh shut up the pair of you.”
“I’m not your girlfriend.” Both Letty and Mia snapped at the same time making everyone stop shocked. Whether it be from Mia yelling or Letty’s words I wasn’t sure.
“Letty and Leon you’re staying at Dom’s tonight no arguments. Han and Gisele you can stay there too, the rest can stay here with us. Dom you can spend the night at your place as well... where’s Elena by the way?” Brian asked looking around for the blond.
“She’s gone to get Rosa and Nico, they’ll have to stay close by until we can track down where Hobbs is.” Dom explained. Letty traded looks with me but we kept silent, now wasn’t the time to offer any ideas.
“Fine.” Letty said. The silence in the air was thick as Letty patted Ava on the back, before she repositioned her so she was laying in her arms.
31st October- Canary Islands, Spain
Brian and Mia’s beach house
Letty’s POV
“So this is my niece huh?” Mia asked breaking the tense silence.
“Yeah... Mia, Dominic meet Ava.” I said quietly as she lay in my arms, one hand gripping my shirt in her tiny fist as she continued to whimper. The tears slowly rolled down her little face as she settled.
“She and Lexie got on quite well.”
“Really? She’s never been around another baby before.” I spoke quietly eyeing Alexis who was now asleep.
“Well that will soon change, after all you are planning on staying aren’t you?” Mia demanded.
“For now yes.” I agreed quietly.
“For now?” Dom questioned but I didn’t answer.
“Does she have a middle name?” Dom probed after another bout of silence.
“Lee, Ava Lee Toretto.” I said eyeing Dom wearily. He looked at me with surprise as I slowly said her last name.
“We might go and get started on lunch and stuff…” Brian coughed as everyone agreed leaving the room quickly. Leon was the only one left as he eyed me wearily, sighing I nodded once and he left after one last glance at Dom.
“I’m sorry I upset her, it was never my intention.” He whispered watching as Ava lay sleepily in my arms.
“She doesn’t like fighting, loud noises that type of thing.” I offered as I watched Dom take a step forward, peering down at Ava with concern and wonder.
“Ava there’s someone I want you to meet. This is daddy Ava.” She peered sleepily up at me as I adjusted her, looking at Dom as I passed her over.
“Hello Ava.” I took a step back, watching with interest as he went and sat down on the lounge with her.
31st October- Canary Islands, Spain
Brian and Mia’s beach house
Dom’s POV
The minute Ava was passed over to me I felt quite emotional. Holding Lexie for the first time had been special, but this was different. My chest tightened, and I knew I had to sit before I buckled. Cradling the little girl, my baby girl, close to me I couldn’t help but stare at her.
She had brown eyes and brown hair immediately made me think of Letty, but her facial features were mine. She peered up at me in question before breaking out into a big smile, letting out a laugh. I smiled back at her as she began to babble in conversation while looking up at me curiously.
“When was she born?” I questioned quietly, silently wondering how much Letty would tell me.
“Eleventh of January; after being in labour for nearly three days she was born at two thirty-three in the morning. She was three weeks early.” She offered quietly.
“Three days?” I questioned in shocked. I saw what Mia went through with her labour, so I felt horrible for Letty and what she must have gone through. Then to make things worse I hadn’t been there either.
“Yeah there were a few complications but she got here okay in the end.” I frowned at her words not understanding.
‘Complications? What did that mean?’ I thought silently, watching as she sat down on the opposite lounge.
“What kind of complications?” I asked concerned.
“She was going on three months old when she first smiled, giggled for the first time a week later. By the time she was four months old she babbled constantly and had learned to roll. At six months the chewing started, and she started eating solids properly. By seven months she was crawling; she was a handful at first, got into everything. She learned to sit up by herself about eight months.” She explained said ignoring my question. I sighed heavily before nodding, smiling down at Ava as she yawned, before looking up at me again questioningly.
“I noticed she said mama before…” I trailed off.
“Yeah she started that a couple of weeks ago; it’s the only thing she’s said so far.”
“Walking or standing?” She shook her head.
“No, but she can stand if she’s holding your hands though once you let go she falls down.” I watched her for a moment and caught her yawn.
“Have you slept?” I asked upset.
“A little, I’ll need to feed her soon then put her down for a nap.” She murmured as she eyed the time.
“I can show you to my place if you like, so that you can both sleep.” She eyed me, and for a moment I thought she was going to say no but instead she nodded.
“That would be nice if you don’t mind. I’d feed her here but-” I nodded understanding what she meant.
“I can take you now if you like?” She nodded, standing up as I too did the same, hugging Ava close to me under Letty’s watchful gaze.
“I’ll just go tell Leon.” She said before turning towards the kitchen not waiting to see the look on my face as she mentioned it. It was best that way.
31st October- Canary Islands, Spain
En route to Dom's beach house
Letty’s POV
“Let.” Leon spoke as he saw me.
“I’m leaving for the house, meet me there later?”
“They’re planning a barbeque for dinner, I’ll come and get you when it’s time.” I frowned but nodded, smiling at everyone tensely before I left the room again.
“I’ll have to take Brian’s car I gave mine to…um” He stopped after realising what he was saying.
“I know.” I watched as Dom put Ava in the car seat. He was a pro at doing it but I suspected he had a lot of practice with Alexis. The entire ride was silent but there was a question in the back of my mind that was bugging me and I had to know.
“Is she staying?” He didn’t have to ask who I meant he just shifted uncomfortably in his seat.
“Yes, she can’t go back. They’re after her now too now that Hobbs knows she’s helped us, she was a cop so if she goes back pretending like nothing happened who knows what they’ll do. She’s become family to us as well, I can’t just throw her to the side and leave her to fend for herself.” He said quietly.
“And you and her, are continuing what you had?” I probed tensely.
“I thought you didn’t care? After all you made it clear back there we weren’t together.” He snapped angrily as he turned to look my way.
“I don’t, it was just a question. Sorry I asked.” I snapped back as we fell silent again.
“I can help you find a house if you like, I know of a few that are near mine and one or two near Mia’s.” He offered after a while. I took that as his means of an apology for before but I shrugged it off.
“I already have it covered.” I indicated. His head turned my way slightly in confusion and curiosity but he never spoke, so again the conversation stopped.
We pulled up at a house on the beach, Dom stopping the engine as we sat there in silence.
“I’m sorry, for before. I just can’t understand why you would do that, why he would do that.”
“We were drunk Dominic, it was the night I found out about you and her.”
“I thought you were dead Letty; it was you’re decision to keep away and let me think that. Was I supposed to be alone for the rest of my life?” I slammed my eyes shut.
“You’ve never been alone.” I snapped before jumping in again before he could speak.
“Leon was just always there, we just happened.” I finished quietly.
“Why didn’t you tell me Letty? I would have done anything to make things work, I never would have left you again. After you died I…I went back to the states, I watched them bury you. I retraced your steps, eventually teamed up with Brian and we brought down Braga. I killed Fenix because I thought he killed you. Eventually the cops caught up to us and because Brian was a cop and he brought down Braga, he got off but I got sent to life in prison. Brian, Mia, Tego and Rico busted me out on the way to Lompoc.” I sat silently stunned.
“I didn’t know that.” I said shakily as he turned to look at me confused.
“What do you mean you didn’t know? Leon said you’ve been tracking us so you must have known.” I shook my head.
“The tracking started not long after you got to Rio. I didn’t know about anything before that.” I explained quietly. I felt Dom’s stare before he shifted, moving closer as he took my face in his hands. Dom’s thumbs wiping away the tears I didn’t even know I’d let slip.
“Let, baby please…I want to help you, please let me do that and tell me what happened to you?” I shut my eyes tightly, trembling at his touch but I shook my head.
“I can’t, I’m sorry I can’t.” I whispered as I ripped my face away from his hands, getting out of the car quickly. Shakily I shut the door and opened the back one, reaching in to get Ava. I hugged her tightly as she babbled sleepily, her fist tightening around my shirt once more.
“I’ll just go and check the place out first. You can never be too careful.” Dom said gently as he stood on the other side of the car, staring across at me. I nodded as Ava started to fuss and cry, gently moving her so she was lying down in my arms as I rocked her. I had to smile as she nuzzled her head into my breast looking for food; I shifted her a bit so she was a bit higher. The last thing I needed was a wet patch on my shirt.
“Hang on baby, mummy will feed you in a minute.” I spoke softly, looking up as I heard footsteps coming towards me. Dom paused in front of me, gazing at Ava before his eyes met mine.
“It’s fine, you can go in.” I nodded slightly, following him inside the house. Looking around you could see he rarely stayed here, the house was almost untouched.
“You can use my room if you want; I haven’t made up the guest beds yet. You and Ava and Leon… can stay in mine tonight, I’ll take one of the guest beds.” I noted Leon’s name had been forced out as I raised an eyebrow at him.
“We don’t usually stay in the same bed Dominic, only if there’s no other option. Leon will be fine to sleep on the couch.” I said quietly.
“Sorry I just assumed. He can use the other spare room then. Um Mia’s got a travel cot sort of thing I’ll have to go and get for Ava.”
“Don’t worry about it for now, I’ll just put her to sleep between two pillows. She’ll be fine.” He nodded, pointing towards the room up the hall.
“It’s just that one, I’ll just go and make up the other beds.” He explained before he walked away.
I sat down on the edge of Dom’s bed, grabbing a pillow as I placed it on my lap before situating Ava on top of it. She started fussing again knowing what she was about to get and I had to shake my head at her as she latched on quickly.
“Sorry baby I know it’s a little late.” I whispered softly stroking her cheek, as she rested her hand on my chest. I looked around the room noticing a small picture frame on top of the draws. It was of me and Dom back in LA; we looked happy and I found myself missing that part of my life. Shaking my head I turned away, looking around the rest of the room. There weren’t any female items which led me to believe Elena wasn’t here much and if she was she left nothing here. If I was being honest to myself, it was a comforting thought.
I sighed tiredly, looking down at Ava as I felt the sucking stop. Gently stroking her cheek and it immediately started again. Poor baby was so tired she was falling asleep but I knew if she didn’t feed enough now she’d be awake in an hour for more.
“Do you need anything?” I looked up to the doorway noticing Dom leaning on it as he watched intently.
“Not at the moment but thanks.” I said quietly. He stayed where he was just watching Ava feed, and though it was slightly uncomfortable, I took the time to look him over.
He was more or less just as I remembered him to be. Tall, big muscled and hot as hell. I turned my face away after I saw his smile, continuing to watch me and our daughter.
“You can come and sit down if you want to.” I said quietly as he immediately pushed away from the door, coming to sit next to me. Ava opened her eyes when the bed shifted as Dom sat down, tilting her head backwards to see who it. Her face showed a small recognition before she settled back down, but she still watched Dom as she drank. I watched amused as her eyes started closing but then she’d open them again to make sure he hadn’t left. After the fourth time she did it I felt Dom’s hand move as he brushed it against her head, making her eyes shut for good as he kept going. After her suckling stopped for good, I turned to look at Dom.
“Can you take her for a moment?” I asked quietly and he nodded, taking her gently as I fixed myself up. I sat there for a moment, watching as she slept quietly in his arms before I stood carefully taking two pillows placing them in the middle of the bed.
“You can put her down if you like.” I offered quietly once I finished. Dom nodded, gently standing up with her before he placed her down on the bed.
“I’ve got a blanket, I’ll go and get it.” Dom spoke, his voice thick as he spoke before walking out of the room. I watched on as our little girl slept but stepped back a bit as Dom came back in covering her over with the blanket. We stayed quiet as I watched him watching her.
“Letty.” He whispered turning his head my way.
“What?” I whispered back.
“I’m going to do everything in my power to prove to you that you can trust me again. I love you Letty, I never stopped and I’m not going to give up on us. I want us to be a family, the three of us together.” His eyes were serious as they met mine, and I caught sight of the emotion his eyes held.
“What if I don’t want that?” I struggled to speak under his gaze.
“If you can look me in the eye, right now, and say you don’t have any feelings left for me then I’ll let you go. We’ll work together for Ava’s sake, co-parent to the best we can. But if you can’t say that then I’m not going to give up without a fight.” I stood still in front of him, so shocked by his words that I couldn’t say anything.
“That’s what I thought.” He murmured before I could put two words together. I was left staring at him as he moved away slightly, reaching for something on the bed.
“Here, I figured you might want a shower and something to change into.” He said as he handed me clothes I hadn’t seen him bring in.
“There Mia’s.” He added as he saw my hesitance, nodding I took them from him, careful not to touch him in any way.
“Thanks.” I mumbled.
“I’ll head back to Mia’s when you’re finished, leave you two to sleep. The bathroom’s through there.” He pointed to the door behind me; I nodded before taking one last look at Ava. Part of me, the emotionally and physically hurt part, didn’t want to let her out of my sight. I didn’t trust Dom and right now that’s exactly what I had to do, trust him to watch over her and not take off with her while my back was turned. A deeper piece of me, one that had been locked away, knew he wouldn’t take her or hurt her but a lot had changed since then. Anything was possible. If he saw my reluctance he didn’t say anything just turned back to the bed as he sat. Rocking back and forth for a moment I slowly turned and entered the bathroom before shutting and locking the door.
“Fuck.” I swore as I leant against the closed door. Wanting to get back to Ava as soon as possible, I quickly stripped down, dumping my dirty clothes on the floor. Just before we hit the German border I had changed out of my blood soaked clothes and dumped them on the side of the road, but I had yet to shower.
Stepping under the spray, it felt like heaven. The hot water felt so good against my tired and tense body. I washed myself quickly, sighing when I realised I wasn’t going to be able to wash my hair. Two familiar bottles caught my attention though and I frowned. Picking up one of the bottles I caught my smile as I registered it was my favourite shampoo from back in LA. Seeing as there was nothing here of Elena’s, I could only speculate this here for Dom as a reminder of me, seeing as it hadn’t been used. I washed my hair quickly too before rinsing off and stepping out of the shower. There was only one towel, which was obviously his, but I picked it up anyway. Wrapping it around my body, I immediately caught his scent.
I dried off and picked up the clothes he had handed me. Frowning slightly as I looked at the singlet top and shorts, I sighed thinking I had no choice but to put them on. I pulled on my underwear again and then the clean clothes, trying to avoid looking in the mirror. These clothes hid nothing, my scars on show for everyone to see. I would have to hunt down a hoodie or something later. Tidying up the bathroom, I unlocked the door pausing as I took in Dom and Ava asleep on the bed together. The relief that flooded through me was calming. I was glad to see Ava was still here and unharmed, just the way I had left her. Finally taking notice of my tired body, I didn’t think twice before I walked around to the other side of the bed. Making sure I didn’t shift the bed too much I lay down, close to Ava as I pulled her protectively to me. Spreading the blanket over myself, I eyed Dom wearily, who lay asleep on the other side of Ava, for a moment before closing my eyes letting sleep take me immediately.
Brian and Mia’s beach house
Leon’s POV
I was holding Ava as she intently watched Alexis who was on Brian’s lap. It was quite a funny site the two of them; Ava had never really been around another baby before. The ten month old was happily sitting on my lap, every now and again reaching out to touch the other little girl’s hand. Everyone was watching the two while we sat around talking.
“So what are your plans?” Mia asked smiling as Ava laughed loudly at Alexis.
“I’m not sure, I have to speak with Letty.” I said quietly.
“Ava seems smitten with Lexie, and vice versa.” Gisele said smiling.
“They look very similar…” Mia trailed off eyeing me.
“Do they? I hadn’t noticed.” I lied as I place Ava on the ground sitting up. She looked up at me smiling cheekily, I raised an eyebrow at her look; nothing ever good came from it.
“Where are you going miss?” I asked as she leant forward starting to crawl away.
“Mama.” She giggled before Roman got down on the floor to play with her.
“Mama?” Mia asked as I forced myself to look away.
“Come on Leon we’re not stupid, she’s either Ana’s or Letty’s.” Brian said as he placed Alexis stomach down on the ground. Almost immediately Ava crawled over to have a closer look.
“Given that she looks a lot like Alexis, I’d bet anything that she’s Dom’s.” I just shrugged and said nothing as I passed a ball to Ava to play with.
“Well?” I looked up at Mia as everyone waited for an answer.
“She’s mine.” Everyone all looked up startled at Dom’s voice. He was coming through the door, Letty hot on his heels behind him. He was glaring at me angrily and I knew by the look on her face, and his, all hell was about to break loose.
“Dom wait…” I pleaded as I quickly stood up , Brian quickly picking Alexis up off the floor as Dom started towards me. Ava squealed loudly as Roman picked her up and stepped out of the way.
“Dom what’s wrong?” Mia asked as she fled to her brother’s side. I stepped forward a bit but Dom swung forward landing a punch to the face. I stumbled back and everyone was left staring wide eyed at us, except Letty who was yelling at Dom to stop. By the look on his face he had no plans to stop, instead we both went crashing to the floor, throwing punches. I got a few good ones in, pleased I was able to get him back a little after everything he had done to Letty and the team.
Roman, Brian and Tej were finally able to pull us apart, Brian pushing Dom backwards as I picked myself up.
“Dominic for fucks sake.” Letty yelled as he tried to get around Brian to punch me again. Letty’s yell had set Ava off into quiet sobs, the little girl reaching out for her mother. Mia kept her out of the way as she tried to soothe her.
“What’s wrong? What’s not wrong? I thought we were mates Leon. Or did everything in LA mean nothing to you?” He demanded. I chanced a glance at Letty, seeing her apologetic look as she tried to pull Dom away.
“We are mates.” I tried as I looked back at Dom.
“Really? I wasn’t aware that ‘mates’ slept with their friend’s girlfriend.” He roared as everyone stopped and stared between us.
“Hang on a second just everybody calm down for a minute, we’re not going to get anywhere with yelling. Explain what’s going on?” Brian said stepping in between me and Dom.
“I was right about them.” Dom spat as he shot me a raging look. Taking a deep breath I shook my head.
“It just happened Dom, it was unexpected to both of us.” I explained.
“And that’s supposed to make it okay? Just because it was never planned?” He asked yelling once more as I flinched a little.
“You can’t really be mad man, you slept with Elena…we’ve seen the pictures. That’s how the whole thing started in the first place.” I said quietly.
“Pictures?” Brian asked confused but Dom wasn’t listening.
“The fucking point Leon is that I thought she was dead- gone and never coming back. You both knew where to find me and yet you slept together. You promised me nothing would ever happen between you two.”
“I don’t know what to say Dom other then I’m sorry.” I said quietly.
“Sorry? Yeah, yeah I bet you are Leon, I bet you’re real sorry.” He yelled shaking his head.
“Back off Dominic it’s as much my fault as it is his.” Letty stated as he turned on her.
“Do you honestly hate me that much Letty that you had to get me back by sleeping with a friend, someone you once thought of as a brother?” I frowned, starting forward again at his tone.
“Don’t speak to her like that.” I snapped as he turned his attention back to me.
“Was it just the once?” He asked suddenly. I stayed silent not knowing what to say and letty stayed silent as well, telling him all he needed to know. Almost immediately everyone took a step forward ready to hold Dom off yet again as his face showed his anger.
“You promised, back in LA you promised me you’d never make a move.” He spoke deathly quiet.
“I’m sorry. I can’t say it enough.” I said sadly.
“No you’re damn fucking right you can’t.” He boomed so loud I swear the house rattled. Before anyone else could say another word a loud wail rang out, startling Alexis into tears as well.
I calmed down significantly as Letty immediately took Ava from Mia as she bawled. She stared over at me as she rocked the little girl, who was clearly upset by the way she was clinging to Letty. Ava buried her head in Letty’s shoulder as her cries echoed loudly through the room.
“I think we’re done for today; unless you have more plans to upset your daughter?” Letty hissed quietly at Dom who stood looking between Letty and Ava.
“I’m sorry; I didn’t mean to upset her. I’m just…can’t you understand where I’m coming from? Was this some sort of pay back?” He asked lowering his voice.
“No, it wasn’t; it just happened. Believe it or not I can understand because I’m sure it’s the exact same way I felt when I found out about you and the cop. The pictures say everything.”
“What pictures?” Brian asked again confused.
“Leon we need to leave.” She said ignoring Brian again and I nodded, moving forward.
“Like hell, Letty we just spoke about this outside.” Dom cried out in anger.
“I’m not leaving the island Dominic, I’m leaving the house. I told you what I had to do.”
“Then you can stay at my place tonight.” He ordered while she shot him a look that could kill.
“I don’t think so.” She snapped.
“I don’t mean with me, I usually stay here with Mia and Brian. It’s just until tomorrow.” He assumed.
“I don’t think it’s wise Dom.” I said quietly.
“Of course you wouldn’t. Would that make it hard for you, trying to sleep with my girlfriend in my house?” I scowled at Dom.
“Oh shut up the pair of you.”
“I’m not your girlfriend.” Both Letty and Mia snapped at the same time making everyone stop shocked. Whether it be from Mia yelling or Letty’s words I wasn’t sure.
“Letty and Leon you’re staying at Dom’s tonight no arguments. Han and Gisele you can stay there too, the rest can stay here with us. Dom you can spend the night at your place as well... where’s Elena by the way?” Brian asked looking around for the blond.
“She’s gone to get Rosa and Nico, they’ll have to stay close by until we can track down where Hobbs is.” Dom explained. Letty traded looks with me but we kept silent, now wasn’t the time to offer any ideas.
“Fine.” Letty said. The silence in the air was thick as Letty patted Ava on the back, before she repositioned her so she was laying in her arms.
31st October- Canary Islands, Spain
Brian and Mia’s beach house
Letty’s POV
“So this is my niece huh?” Mia asked breaking the tense silence.
“Yeah... Mia, Dominic meet Ava.” I said quietly as she lay in my arms, one hand gripping my shirt in her tiny fist as she continued to whimper. The tears slowly rolled down her little face as she settled.
“She and Lexie got on quite well.”
“Really? She’s never been around another baby before.” I spoke quietly eyeing Alexis who was now asleep.
“Well that will soon change, after all you are planning on staying aren’t you?” Mia demanded.
“For now yes.” I agreed quietly.
“For now?” Dom questioned but I didn’t answer.
“Does she have a middle name?” Dom probed after another bout of silence.
“Lee, Ava Lee Toretto.” I said eyeing Dom wearily. He looked at me with surprise as I slowly said her last name.
“We might go and get started on lunch and stuff…” Brian coughed as everyone agreed leaving the room quickly. Leon was the only one left as he eyed me wearily, sighing I nodded once and he left after one last glance at Dom.
“I’m sorry I upset her, it was never my intention.” He whispered watching as Ava lay sleepily in my arms.
“She doesn’t like fighting, loud noises that type of thing.” I offered as I watched Dom take a step forward, peering down at Ava with concern and wonder.
“Ava there’s someone I want you to meet. This is daddy Ava.” She peered sleepily up at me as I adjusted her, looking at Dom as I passed her over.
“Hello Ava.” I took a step back, watching with interest as he went and sat down on the lounge with her.
31st October- Canary Islands, Spain
Brian and Mia’s beach house
Dom’s POV
The minute Ava was passed over to me I felt quite emotional. Holding Lexie for the first time had been special, but this was different. My chest tightened, and I knew I had to sit before I buckled. Cradling the little girl, my baby girl, close to me I couldn’t help but stare at her.
She had brown eyes and brown hair immediately made me think of Letty, but her facial features were mine. She peered up at me in question before breaking out into a big smile, letting out a laugh. I smiled back at her as she began to babble in conversation while looking up at me curiously.
“When was she born?” I questioned quietly, silently wondering how much Letty would tell me.
“Eleventh of January; after being in labour for nearly three days she was born at two thirty-three in the morning. She was three weeks early.” She offered quietly.
“Three days?” I questioned in shocked. I saw what Mia went through with her labour, so I felt horrible for Letty and what she must have gone through. Then to make things worse I hadn’t been there either.
“Yeah there were a few complications but she got here okay in the end.” I frowned at her words not understanding.
‘Complications? What did that mean?’ I thought silently, watching as she sat down on the opposite lounge.
“What kind of complications?” I asked concerned.
“She was going on three months old when she first smiled, giggled for the first time a week later. By the time she was four months old she babbled constantly and had learned to roll. At six months the chewing started, and she started eating solids properly. By seven months she was crawling; she was a handful at first, got into everything. She learned to sit up by herself about eight months.” She explained said ignoring my question. I sighed heavily before nodding, smiling down at Ava as she yawned, before looking up at me again questioningly.
“I noticed she said mama before…” I trailed off.
“Yeah she started that a couple of weeks ago; it’s the only thing she’s said so far.”
“Walking or standing?” She shook her head.
“No, but she can stand if she’s holding your hands though once you let go she falls down.” I watched her for a moment and caught her yawn.
“Have you slept?” I asked upset.
“A little, I’ll need to feed her soon then put her down for a nap.” She murmured as she eyed the time.
“I can show you to my place if you like, so that you can both sleep.” She eyed me, and for a moment I thought she was going to say no but instead she nodded.
“That would be nice if you don’t mind. I’d feed her here but-” I nodded understanding what she meant.
“I can take you now if you like?” She nodded, standing up as I too did the same, hugging Ava close to me under Letty’s watchful gaze.
“I’ll just go tell Leon.” She said before turning towards the kitchen not waiting to see the look on my face as she mentioned it. It was best that way.
31st October- Canary Islands, Spain
En route to Dom's beach house
Letty’s POV
“Let.” Leon spoke as he saw me.
“I’m leaving for the house, meet me there later?”
“They’re planning a barbeque for dinner, I’ll come and get you when it’s time.” I frowned but nodded, smiling at everyone tensely before I left the room again.
“I’ll have to take Brian’s car I gave mine to…um” He stopped after realising what he was saying.
“I know.” I watched as Dom put Ava in the car seat. He was a pro at doing it but I suspected he had a lot of practice with Alexis. The entire ride was silent but there was a question in the back of my mind that was bugging me and I had to know.
“Is she staying?” He didn’t have to ask who I meant he just shifted uncomfortably in his seat.
“Yes, she can’t go back. They’re after her now too now that Hobbs knows she’s helped us, she was a cop so if she goes back pretending like nothing happened who knows what they’ll do. She’s become family to us as well, I can’t just throw her to the side and leave her to fend for herself.” He said quietly.
“And you and her, are continuing what you had?” I probed tensely.
“I thought you didn’t care? After all you made it clear back there we weren’t together.” He snapped angrily as he turned to look my way.
“I don’t, it was just a question. Sorry I asked.” I snapped back as we fell silent again.
“I can help you find a house if you like, I know of a few that are near mine and one or two near Mia’s.” He offered after a while. I took that as his means of an apology for before but I shrugged it off.
“I already have it covered.” I indicated. His head turned my way slightly in confusion and curiosity but he never spoke, so again the conversation stopped.
We pulled up at a house on the beach, Dom stopping the engine as we sat there in silence.
“I’m sorry, for before. I just can’t understand why you would do that, why he would do that.”
“We were drunk Dominic, it was the night I found out about you and her.”
“I thought you were dead Letty; it was you’re decision to keep away and let me think that. Was I supposed to be alone for the rest of my life?” I slammed my eyes shut.
“You’ve never been alone.” I snapped before jumping in again before he could speak.
“Leon was just always there, we just happened.” I finished quietly.
“Why didn’t you tell me Letty? I would have done anything to make things work, I never would have left you again. After you died I…I went back to the states, I watched them bury you. I retraced your steps, eventually teamed up with Brian and we brought down Braga. I killed Fenix because I thought he killed you. Eventually the cops caught up to us and because Brian was a cop and he brought down Braga, he got off but I got sent to life in prison. Brian, Mia, Tego and Rico busted me out on the way to Lompoc.” I sat silently stunned.
“I didn’t know that.” I said shakily as he turned to look at me confused.
“What do you mean you didn’t know? Leon said you’ve been tracking us so you must have known.” I shook my head.
“The tracking started not long after you got to Rio. I didn’t know about anything before that.” I explained quietly. I felt Dom’s stare before he shifted, moving closer as he took my face in his hands. Dom’s thumbs wiping away the tears I didn’t even know I’d let slip.
“Let, baby please…I want to help you, please let me do that and tell me what happened to you?” I shut my eyes tightly, trembling at his touch but I shook my head.
“I can’t, I’m sorry I can’t.” I whispered as I ripped my face away from his hands, getting out of the car quickly. Shakily I shut the door and opened the back one, reaching in to get Ava. I hugged her tightly as she babbled sleepily, her fist tightening around my shirt once more.
“I’ll just go and check the place out first. You can never be too careful.” Dom said gently as he stood on the other side of the car, staring across at me. I nodded as Ava started to fuss and cry, gently moving her so she was lying down in my arms as I rocked her. I had to smile as she nuzzled her head into my breast looking for food; I shifted her a bit so she was a bit higher. The last thing I needed was a wet patch on my shirt.
“Hang on baby, mummy will feed you in a minute.” I spoke softly, looking up as I heard footsteps coming towards me. Dom paused in front of me, gazing at Ava before his eyes met mine.
“It’s fine, you can go in.” I nodded slightly, following him inside the house. Looking around you could see he rarely stayed here, the house was almost untouched.
“You can use my room if you want; I haven’t made up the guest beds yet. You and Ava and Leon… can stay in mine tonight, I’ll take one of the guest beds.” I noted Leon’s name had been forced out as I raised an eyebrow at him.
“We don’t usually stay in the same bed Dominic, only if there’s no other option. Leon will be fine to sleep on the couch.” I said quietly.
“Sorry I just assumed. He can use the other spare room then. Um Mia’s got a travel cot sort of thing I’ll have to go and get for Ava.”
“Don’t worry about it for now, I’ll just put her to sleep between two pillows. She’ll be fine.” He nodded, pointing towards the room up the hall.
“It’s just that one, I’ll just go and make up the other beds.” He explained before he walked away.
I sat down on the edge of Dom’s bed, grabbing a pillow as I placed it on my lap before situating Ava on top of it. She started fussing again knowing what she was about to get and I had to shake my head at her as she latched on quickly.
“Sorry baby I know it’s a little late.” I whispered softly stroking her cheek, as she rested her hand on my chest. I looked around the room noticing a small picture frame on top of the draws. It was of me and Dom back in LA; we looked happy and I found myself missing that part of my life. Shaking my head I turned away, looking around the rest of the room. There weren’t any female items which led me to believe Elena wasn’t here much and if she was she left nothing here. If I was being honest to myself, it was a comforting thought.
I sighed tiredly, looking down at Ava as I felt the sucking stop. Gently stroking her cheek and it immediately started again. Poor baby was so tired she was falling asleep but I knew if she didn’t feed enough now she’d be awake in an hour for more.
“Do you need anything?” I looked up to the doorway noticing Dom leaning on it as he watched intently.
“Not at the moment but thanks.” I said quietly. He stayed where he was just watching Ava feed, and though it was slightly uncomfortable, I took the time to look him over.
He was more or less just as I remembered him to be. Tall, big muscled and hot as hell. I turned my face away after I saw his smile, continuing to watch me and our daughter.
“You can come and sit down if you want to.” I said quietly as he immediately pushed away from the door, coming to sit next to me. Ava opened her eyes when the bed shifted as Dom sat down, tilting her head backwards to see who it. Her face showed a small recognition before she settled back down, but she still watched Dom as she drank. I watched amused as her eyes started closing but then she’d open them again to make sure he hadn’t left. After the fourth time she did it I felt Dom’s hand move as he brushed it against her head, making her eyes shut for good as he kept going. After her suckling stopped for good, I turned to look at Dom.
“Can you take her for a moment?” I asked quietly and he nodded, taking her gently as I fixed myself up. I sat there for a moment, watching as she slept quietly in his arms before I stood carefully taking two pillows placing them in the middle of the bed.
“You can put her down if you like.” I offered quietly once I finished. Dom nodded, gently standing up with her before he placed her down on the bed.
“I’ve got a blanket, I’ll go and get it.” Dom spoke, his voice thick as he spoke before walking out of the room. I watched on as our little girl slept but stepped back a bit as Dom came back in covering her over with the blanket. We stayed quiet as I watched him watching her.
“Letty.” He whispered turning his head my way.
“What?” I whispered back.
“I’m going to do everything in my power to prove to you that you can trust me again. I love you Letty, I never stopped and I’m not going to give up on us. I want us to be a family, the three of us together.” His eyes were serious as they met mine, and I caught sight of the emotion his eyes held.
“What if I don’t want that?” I struggled to speak under his gaze.
“If you can look me in the eye, right now, and say you don’t have any feelings left for me then I’ll let you go. We’ll work together for Ava’s sake, co-parent to the best we can. But if you can’t say that then I’m not going to give up without a fight.” I stood still in front of him, so shocked by his words that I couldn’t say anything.
“That’s what I thought.” He murmured before I could put two words together. I was left staring at him as he moved away slightly, reaching for something on the bed.
“Here, I figured you might want a shower and something to change into.” He said as he handed me clothes I hadn’t seen him bring in.
“There Mia’s.” He added as he saw my hesitance, nodding I took them from him, careful not to touch him in any way.
“Thanks.” I mumbled.
“I’ll head back to Mia’s when you’re finished, leave you two to sleep. The bathroom’s through there.” He pointed to the door behind me; I nodded before taking one last look at Ava. Part of me, the emotionally and physically hurt part, didn’t want to let her out of my sight. I didn’t trust Dom and right now that’s exactly what I had to do, trust him to watch over her and not take off with her while my back was turned. A deeper piece of me, one that had been locked away, knew he wouldn’t take her or hurt her but a lot had changed since then. Anything was possible. If he saw my reluctance he didn’t say anything just turned back to the bed as he sat. Rocking back and forth for a moment I slowly turned and entered the bathroom before shutting and locking the door.
“Fuck.” I swore as I leant against the closed door. Wanting to get back to Ava as soon as possible, I quickly stripped down, dumping my dirty clothes on the floor. Just before we hit the German border I had changed out of my blood soaked clothes and dumped them on the side of the road, but I had yet to shower.
Stepping under the spray, it felt like heaven. The hot water felt so good against my tired and tense body. I washed myself quickly, sighing when I realised I wasn’t going to be able to wash my hair. Two familiar bottles caught my attention though and I frowned. Picking up one of the bottles I caught my smile as I registered it was my favourite shampoo from back in LA. Seeing as there was nothing here of Elena’s, I could only speculate this here for Dom as a reminder of me, seeing as it hadn’t been used. I washed my hair quickly too before rinsing off and stepping out of the shower. There was only one towel, which was obviously his, but I picked it up anyway. Wrapping it around my body, I immediately caught his scent.
I dried off and picked up the clothes he had handed me. Frowning slightly as I looked at the singlet top and shorts, I sighed thinking I had no choice but to put them on. I pulled on my underwear again and then the clean clothes, trying to avoid looking in the mirror. These clothes hid nothing, my scars on show for everyone to see. I would have to hunt down a hoodie or something later. Tidying up the bathroom, I unlocked the door pausing as I took in Dom and Ava asleep on the bed together. The relief that flooded through me was calming. I was glad to see Ava was still here and unharmed, just the way I had left her. Finally taking notice of my tired body, I didn’t think twice before I walked around to the other side of the bed. Making sure I didn’t shift the bed too much I lay down, close to Ava as I pulled her protectively to me. Spreading the blanket over myself, I eyed Dom wearily, who lay asleep on the other side of Ava, for a moment before closing my eyes letting sleep take me immediately.