Sofie walked into the Leverage headquarters and saw Nate sitting in the corner sipping on a soft drink. He was slumped heavily in a leather armchair, staring out of the window. His face, reflected in the glass, was blank, exhaustion etching deep lines at the corners of the eyes. His hair was unkempt and he hadn't bothered to shave. She doubted he was seeing the glorious view this office afforded. As she approached he spoke without even turning to look at her. "It's just Coke, so you don't have to worry."

She still took the can from his hand and gave it a sniff. He didn't even attempt to argue with her. He thoroughly deserved her suspicion, and they both knew it.

When she was satisfied that it was indeed just Coke she gave the can back to him. She then noticed the ice pack he had on his other hand. "What happened to your hand?" She asked with genuine concern in her voice.

"I punched the wall." Nate answered, finally turning to face her. "I saw Sterling and I punched the wall."

"Sterling was there?" Sofie asked, concerned. That guy was beginning to show up too often.

"No, he wasn't really there. I just imagined him." Nate said as he removed the ice pack from his hand, shaking his hand to try and get rid of the stiffness.

Sofie saw a row of bruises going across his knuckles along with a small line of cuts. "I know this must have been hard on you." She began softly. "I just want to say that I am proud of you for doing it."

"I didn't mean to be a burden on you. I'm sorry." Nate said and Sofie could see clarity in his eyes though the fatigue. "Thank you for not giving up on me."

Sofie smiled. "That's what friends are for."

"Only friends?" Nate asked as a mischievous smile cracked through his exhausted expession.

Sofie's smile couldn't help but widen at that. "Get some rest Nate. You deserve it." She reached out and put her hand on his shoulder as she stood to leave.

Nate watched her go. He was happy to see her turn around at look at him once before she left.