A/N: Season 4 premiered last night and all I can say is that was some start to the season. I decided to free write after watching the episode and this is what came of it. Missing scene between Pete and Artie post-show. This is my first foray into the Warehouse world so reviews are appreciated. They make me smile. Enjoy.
Spoilers: 4x01 A New Hope
Disclaimer: I wish I owned a warehouse of my own. I think it would be cool. But alas, I don't own anything of the sort. Nor do I own anything related to Warehouse 13.
Weight of the World
"Hey."
Artie glances up, immediately spotting Pete standing in the doorway.
"Any word from Claudia?" Pete asks.
"No. Not yet."
"She'll be back."
Pete's unwavering optimism puts a small smile on Artie's face.
"Yeah, she will be."
"Artie, are you okay?"
The question hangs in the air for quite some time.
"I'm fine."
"No, you're not. What gives? Myka said you were acting weird earlier, even by Artie standards."
Sighing, Artie runs a hand across his face.
I watched you die. You died in my arms and there was nothing I could do about it.
"It's just been a long day," Artie replies wearily.
"Well, if you want to talk about it…"
"I know where to find you."
Although Pete doesn't push the matter further, Artie can see the skepticism in the younger man's eyes.
"You should try to get some sleep," Artie suggests, deftly changing the subject.
"Uh, kettle, pot."
"Yeah, yeah, I'm heading to bed soon too."
"Okay. Night, Artie."
"Good night."
Pete doesn't even have time to turn around.
"Uh, Pete?"
"Yeah?"
"You're a good agent. Better than good, actually."
Artie swallows hard, fighting back the tears threatening to spill.
"Artie, you're scaring me," Pete says worriedly. "Are you sick?"
"No! No, I'm not sick. You know what, never mind, just go to bed."
"You're sure you're not sick?"
"Yes, Pete, I'm sure," Artie answers bristly. "Go."
"But if you were sick…"
"Go!" Artie snaps.
"Okay, okay," Pete concedes, throwing his hands up. "I'm going."
Pete leaves only to reappear seconds later.
"Pete…"
"You're better than good too, Artie."
Pete grins before bounding up the stairs to his room. Artie is unable to look away from the now empty doorway as a single tear escapes his eye.
Fin for now...