Good friends

"A'ite," Pete gave Ron a quick wave. "I'll be back in a bit then, and you can fill me in on whatever's going on since... I apparently am out of the loop." 

Making his way out of the building, he wandered to his car and just sat for a moment or two. He didn't usually let his emotional face show at work - it was reserved for when he was alone or with Nikki. And right now, he was alone... and his slumped shoulders proved it. The whole thing with Gunner bothered him more than anyone knew. The changes at the Elite also bothered him more than he'd said. He was just tired and needed to accomplish something - anything - to feel better. Maybe working on a case with Ron would be a good thing.

He was back within fifteen minutes, coffee in hand. Back inside, he found Ron in one of the previously empty cubicles. "Don't get too comfortable," he mused. "I'm sure you know we're gonna be moving." He took a sip of his coffee and leaned on the short wall. "So. What's this all about a vigilante?" He really had no idea what was going on, and though a little miffed that the newcomer was in the loop more than he was, but even more so, he wanted something else to focus on. 


"Me? Yeah, I'm alright." Hal rubbed the side of his hand where he'd caught himself going down earlier. "Little road rash from the parking lot, but I'll survive." 

He tried to concentrate on other work, but his mind kept replaying that little episode. "Do you really think Aaron meant to protect you or... do you think he knew something like this would happen once he was outside, and it's just a tactic so we'll trust him?"


Watching Ryan out of the corner of his eye, Clint grinned. He didn't want her to feel uncomfortable, but it looked like she had things well under control with Dara. If a baby couldn't bring a smile to her face, nothing could.

"Hmm?" Distracted, he glanced at Wendy, returning her light kiss. "Oh yeah. Sure." He handed the stirring over to her and went to grab some plates and utensils. 

It didn't take long to get the table all set, and soon they were able to enjoy the meal. Clint took the first bite of his sloppy joe and murmured with a sigh. "Yup... still my favorite." He nodded to Ryan and grinned. "I like Becky's cooking, but sometimes this is why I'd rather just eat at home." He thought for a moment. "So... you and Hunter seem like pretty good friends for two people who compete against each other all the time."


"Get ditched?" Mick set down his plate next to Hunter at one of the tables.

Hunter chuckled and nodded as he took a bite of chicken. "Yeah. She got a better offer. Which...isn't too hard."

Mick just rolled his eyes. "She seems to be smiling more."

Hunter thought for a moment before nodding slowly. "Yeah...yeah, she does. Kinda seen a bit of the old Ryan the last couple days. It's been nice." He looked up as Rosetta and BJ joined them, and smiled. He was about to say more, when he was surprised by Dylan's appearance as well. 

Dylan motioned to the extra chair between Hunter and Rosetta. "Anybody care?" 

Hunter shook his head. "Nope. Park yourself."

Dylan grinned a little and joined them.

Mick's eyebrows rose slightly and he caught Rosetta's eye. Dylan never sat with them at supper unless they specifically invited him over to the house. Was it just because Hunter was here, or was he finally, finally loosening up?