Morning

Smiling again, Hunter shifted down a little further to kiss her lips, letting it gently linger for several long moments. Drawing back, his smile returned. "And I'll have the best cheering section out of the whole lot." He paused. "Until you decide you can't stand to see me win any longer and try to kick my butt yourself."

Chuckling, he gave her a squeeze before finally releasing her. "Goodnight, Ryan. I'll see you bright and early." They'd stay long enough for breakfast, but then would leave. He had to work the day after next, and couldn't afford to take the leisurely route back home.

The night didn't last long enough. Despite being tired and needing sleep, Hunter's mind was far too busy. He missed Ryan's company but knew it was a good sign that she hadn't shown up. He hoped it was the start of a new pattern for her - one without nightmares. By morning, he'd gotten a few hours of sleep... enough to function and drive. So, rising, he showered and packed his things before going outside and walking next door to Ryan's bunk. Stopping at the door, he stifled a yawn and knocked. "Hey, partner," he called lightly. "Want some coffee?"


Levi laughed at Karla's statement, his eyes twinkling. Being no more than friends was just fine with him. She made him feel good and wanted, even if he did act like a dork. "At least somebody likes it," he teased. "It's probably good you're around the office now because before, it was just me and Dad and I'm thinking I may have driven him crazy a time or two. Maybe more than that. Constantly maybe." He grinned again. "But hey... business is booming, right?" It really wasn't going too badly for their small business. They were still trying to grow, for sure, but nobody would be able to tell Levi that Karla wasn't already a very important part of the team. 


The park near the university wasn't a typical favorite spot, but since it wasn't too far from the current Elite building, and since he was actually allowed time to clear his head, it was Jamison's new first pick. Sitting at one of the picnic tables, he took a bite out of his apple and turned the page in the book he'd been reading on ancient civilizations. Totally unrelated to work, it gave his mind something else to think about at least for a little while.

The hair on the back of his neck bristled and he looked up and scanned the area. Strange. He didn't see anyone watching. But the odd feeling remained. Now just remaining alert, he turned his eyes back to his book and chewed another bite of apple.