Title: A simple handshake
Characters: Donna, Ed.
Word Count: 400.
Rating: PG.
Warnings: None.
Spoilers: 2x10 - Remote Control.
Summary: Ed has a few things to say to Donna before she goes.
Written for: flashpoint_sru, prompt #8 Chance.
Disclaimer: I don't own Flashpoint.
Betas: The lovely AnaklusmostRiptide from FF and the great lillyg.

XxX

A simple handshake

She'd noticed that she hadn't been welcomed greatly to Team One, but she didn't really complain. Donna was a strong woman who didn't need any favors. She could perfectly stand up on her own fit and survive the selection process.

On her way out of the women's locker room, she remembered the first she'd entered the place and how excited she'd feel to work with a group of fine professionals. She'd seen the shadow in everyone's eyes when she'd taken Jules' place. She knew that they didn't mean not to like her, but she was also aware that the previous cop meant family to them. Even if she didn't want to replace her in any way, simply being the woman in the team was some kind of threat to the others. Especially to the guy named Sam.

"Donna," someone called behind her, and when she turned around, Ed was walking towards her. "Can I talk to you for a moment?"

"Sure," she responded, waiting for him. "What is it?"

Ed was very clear. "You were incredible out there. Everyone acknowledges that. I really hope the job is yours because your ability to negotiate, your strategy training… We'd be very lucky to have you."

It felt good to hear that her work was appreciated, even if she already knew she was doing an excellent job. It was a shame that she wouldn't stay in the team. "Thank you."

"For what?"

"For… supporting me. Even if we all knew I'd be out when Jules was ready to come back to the field."

"Donna, you're…" Ed muttered.

"It's okay, Ed. The spot belonged to her anyway. From what I've heard, she's a very capable woman and an outstanding cop."

"You are, too."

Donna took a deep breath before giving him an answer. She wanted to stay positive no matter what. "I had a chance. Now I have another one."

"Really?"

"Yeah. Team Three. That spot's mine. One hundred percent."

The smile in Ed's face didn't surprise her. She'd figured him out from the very beginning. He was a good man. "Team Three is great. I can tell you'll fit right in."

She smiled back and offered him her hand. To her, some gestures of politeness were stronger than compliments. She preferred them over people telling her how good she was.

Ed nodded and reciprocated. A handshake meant more than a thousand welcoming words.

The End.

XxX