AN: Just a little fluff/missing scene for this ep. Also, I'm not a bow tie expert, so if I got it wrong please let me know since I strive to be as accurate as possible in my writing.
This story isn't slash, but could be misconstrued if you're squinting really hard.
After Shaw strode out the door, Reese hurriedly attempted the knot again only to pull the fabric apart with a frustrated sigh.
"Mr. Reese, if I may?" Harold asked, limping forward.
"Fine," was the curt response. John dropped his hands to his side and obediently lifted his chin, feeling for all the world like a helpless teenager going to his first dance.
"While field-stripping a .45 in the dark is undoubtedly an impressive skill, might I suggest a few minutes of practice with different knots?" Harold pointedly ignored John's glare as he skillfully turned the fabric into a perfect butterfly. "I'm certain this won't be the last black tie event you'll have to attend." Stepping back, Finch admired his handiwork.
Looking in the mirror, John couldn't deny Finch's knot was impeccable. Giving a final tug on his cuffs and jacket, he turned towards the door. "Let's not keep Shaw waiting," he said.
POI POI POI
After checking in at the event, Reese abruptly stepped away to continue scanning the crowd, leaving Finch to smooth things over with the redhead. Fortunately, Harold didn't need to say anything.
"Oh my, he's gorgeous," she low voiced.
A mere raised eyebrows and slight nod were all Harold needed to easily walk away. He couldn't help but smile to himself. John's skills made him a formidable adversary and cunning ally, a chameleon in any situation, yet he had been foiled less than half an hour ago by a mere 35 inches of silk. The smile vanished as he stepped up next to Reese.
"Fancy stuff," Reese commented.