The continuous rapping of rain that tore across the roof did nothing to distract the occupants of Hooks and Ladder No. 8 from their thoughts. The firehouse was stocked to the brim with well intentions, but it did nothing to dispel the palpable tension that existed in the empty space.

It had been three weeks since Holtzmann had upped and left in the middle of lunch, only to return 24 hours later emotionally withdrawn and completely un-Holtzmann like. Since then, there have been no impromptu dance parties, no poofs of any size- even micro poofs, and DeBarge had been replaced with the soundtrack to Schindler's List.

Abby, Patty and Erin had each tried talking to Holtz only to be met with casual dismissal of their concerns and swift changes of the subject.

The sudden apparition of lightning provided a dramatic effect to the inner cacophony of thoughts and emotions running rampage through Holtz.

'Do I tell them? Can I tell them? Can I get away with only telling them a little?' She obsessed over her options as she continued to weld the frame of a 5th proton pack.

Her thoughts were brought to a screeching halt when Erin's normally timbered voice screeched out, "AGHH!"

"Everything alright over there?" Holtzmann questioned looking at a frustrated Erin staring down a whiteboard.

Erin scoffed. "If fine is what you would call staring at the same problem for 4 hours with no progress than yes everything is fine."

'Sassy' Holtz sighed to herself as she returned to her welding.

"Hey Holtz?" Erin questioned

Holtz looked up to see Erin staring straight at her, back to the whiteboard, with an inquisitive look on her face.

"Uh, yes Er?" Holtz replied tensing up preparing for the worst.

Erin took a step closer, than another and another, until she was finally in front of Holtzmann. She reached out, took Holtz's hand in hers, and stated, "I know the last few weeks have been difficult for you. And, I also know you have not wanted to talk about it. But, I want you to know I am here for you...the whole team is here for you. When you are ready we will be here to listen."

Holtz gripped Erin's hand firmly as if believing a less tense grip would allow it to disappear.

Looking away, unable to directly face her friend, Holtz replied "Maybe that day is today."