Surprise

Having Victoria sit on his lap, Garret wrapped his arms around her and hugged her tight. Why did he always have to say goodbye to her? Why could they never be together? It was as if destiny had decided they were never meant to be. It didn't matter which side Garret chose - he would always be without her. 

He rested his head against hers and just held her for the longest moment. His lips found her neck to kiss her softly several times before moving to her lips where he let his kiss linger, deepening at the same time his heart cracked. 

Finally, he let her go though, knowing that if he didn't now, he wasn't sure he could watch her walk away at all. "Come on," he coaxed. "I'll help you leave." 

Standing by the door, he looked up at the camera. "Hal, I know you're watching. Send in Nate. Please."

It was only a few moments and the door opened, but it wasn't Nate. It was Reese. 

Garret bristled, and put himself between Reese and Victoria. "I asked for Nate."

"So you did." Reese cocked his head. "Why? Because you can get your way with him?"

"Because he's the only one who trusts me."

"Mmhm...." Reese thought for a while, then shrugged. "Come with me." 

Garret took Victoria's hand as he followed Reese, half expecting to be led back downstairs. But instead, they aimed for the main floor. A lot of eyes stared at them as they walked through the cubicles - no less than normal. Maybe more. Especially since Reese hadn't restrained them - surprise number two. Number three came when they stopped at Nate's desk.

Reese cleared his throat. "Nate, Garret here wanted to see you. I'm going back to my office so...do whatever it is you have to do, and... I'll expect a report later." And turning his back, he walked away.

Garret knew Reese had heard the conversation in the interrogation room. Yet he was still leaving it up to Nate and not making a stink? His grip on Victoria's hand tightened and he glanced to Nate. "Victoria's not staying." Saying it out loud stung. "I'm asking that you allow her to walk. You have my word she won't sabotage the Elite after having been here. Please let her go." He knew full well no one could keep her here. But it sure would be nice to do his without a fight.


Susanne nodded and opened the door, letting Chuck in with her. She remained quiet - quieter than normal - as she fed and watered her birds, then started a pot of coffee. Joining Chuck on the couch, she leaned against him as the television comedy projected laughter which she did not feel.

It was a long span of silence before tears started to trickle down her face. Only a few at first, then as they became more, she started to tremble. Turning her face into Chuck's shoulder, her walls finally came tumbling down, leaving only her vulnerable fear which has gripped her so tightly as she'd been held captive.