Hello, all. I do apologize for the long delay. I hate not being a person of my word. I won't make excuses. I'll just let you know that there was an epic battle against a lawn mower. Also, like many and most others, school has started. I will try to update when I can. The story is already written in my head. Committing it to paper is another thing entirely. I halfway considered taking it down, but since at least two of you are interested, I'll try and keep it going to the end. Long chapter up ahead. Pace may be slow, but it will all pick up soon. Please enjoy.~~~SimpliRay


Barry made short work of the moving process. Late Thursday morning Barry, Joe, and Wally packed all of Barry's most important items and clothes in various boxes. The mood was calm, lighthearted, and hopeful. They took a break and had an early lunch of Big Belly Burger. That afternoon Barry declined any further assistance with moving. He sped over all his things into his new place. Barry couldn't help but let out a relieved sigh. This was his new home, and it was pretty perfect

Barry took time to unpack his few things. Upon opening the first box he was surprised to see it filled with several carefully wrapped picture frames and a photo album. He didn't remember packing this one, and the three of them failed to mark which boxes were which. He brought the box over to the couch setting it down on the cherry wood coffee table that was before him. He took a seat and carefully began picking through the items. He found a note inside with a very familiar script of writing that he instantly recognized. Iris.

'I came by to see if I could help, but you guys were already out. I checked your things to make sure you had everything you needed and noticed that there was something missing. Something important that I didn't want you to leave behind. So here it is. I packed all our favorite pictures of us together over the years. You and me at the Central City Park, You and Dad at graduation, and you with your Mom and Dad. I know you are moving to start something new, but I want you to remember the family that has always in every way loved and supported you. You better take good care of yourself Barry...or I will find you and bring you home.

Love,

Iris '

Barry smiled warmly at the letter ending on threat for better living. That was just like her. He looked through the photos she sent him unwrapping them one at a time. He laid them all out on the coffee table and stared at them. He saw himself in the many different phases of his life. The innocent child with his loving parents. Bright eyes and full of smiles. Him and Joe. Proud smiles full of accomplishment. Him and Iris. Loving smiles. Whether it was from friendship then or apparently something more that grew stronger over the years, he wasn't sure. These pictures painted a beautiful story, but didn't show the dark times in between. His mother's murder. Father's false conviction. The strained relationship with Joe at the beginning. The psych visits and therapy during those harsh middle and and high school days. Eddie's death. Ronnie's death. His dad. He wondered if he would ever smile like that again. Would he ever feel that way again. I hope so.

Barry hopped off the couch leaving the pictures in place on the table. He did his best to refocus on unpacking, leaving the negative thoughts behind. He ventured deeper into the apartment exploring the bedroom and bathroom. Both were large and spacious. A large window took up half of the back wall stopping midway down in the bedroom. Light poured into the space bouncing off the white walls. A mid sized desk with upper cabinets was tucked neatly in the corner on the left side of the room. The built in desk lamp could be accessed by the small chain beneath the cabinets. There was a king sized bed with a mix of black and white sheets and covers next to the desk. A night stand was on the other side of the bed. There was a nice size dresser and what he assumed was the walk in closet door on the right hand side. The bathroom was large with a double sink, bathtub, and shower stall. Everything was so clean there wasn't even any dirt or grout in the molding of the shower tiles. The whole place felt like the first time you check into your room at a hotel. The place seemed made to suit the comfort of anyone.

Barry took his time unpacking his things and finding appropriate places for them. It was kind of exciting having so many options to choose from. After everything was unpacked, he found himself arranging and rearranging things at super speed until it all settled into feeling like home. He smiled at his accomplishment sitting on the arm of the plush couch. He left for a while to do some shopping. Food, soap, and all the other necessities. He came back and after putting everything away decided to take a hot shower. He realized that he had forgotten to buy towels but was relieved when he had opened the cabinets. There were several towels already stocked. He took the longest shower of his life the feel of the hot water washing over him. He stepped out on the soft rug wrapping his towel around his waist and towel drying his damp hair. He wiped away the fog on the mirror and for the first time noticed the light but thickening stubble around his chin. He decided to take the time and trim up shaving himself back to the Barry he remembered. After a long while he exited the bathroom and crossed into his bedroom. He padded over to his dresser slipping out some light pajamas for the night. Boxers. Light sweats. A worn S.T.A.R. Labs t-shirt. Barry walked over to his bed pulling back the white comforter and slipped between the dark sheets. It was surprisingly comfortable and the whole house was quiet. He leaned back against the soft pillows and pulled the sheets up to his chest. He was tired from the day, but still a little anxious. Rarely for the past month had he been able to sleep fully through the night without waking up in panicked screams or soundless tears. Barry didn't know what to expect tonight. New place. Alone. Barry tried to shake off the negative thoughts. Change is good, he thought to himself. My first step towards sanity, he repeated Cameron's words beginning to take deep even breaths.


Darkness settled over the Mid-Central City Technical Supply Warehouse. The parking lot was deserted except for a few worn down vehicles that had already been sitting there for ages. There were a few light poles scattered throughout the lot that cast a yellowish gleam here and there. The thin security that had already made its round for the night was already headed back to check on two other facilities that it was assigned. A hooded figure in a dark trench coat approached the facility crossing to the back of the large building to the large double garage doors. The figure stepped close to the building analyzing the intricate locking mechanism that controlled the doors. He took his time pacing from one end to the other taking note of the three access panels that controlled the lock. He paused and as if coming to a conclusion stepped back a few paces. He raised his finger-less gloved hands before him in the direction of the door and focused. Suddenly the three access panels lit up with a green lights emanating from the screens. The garage doors slid open pulling upward to the ceiling of the facility. The hooded figure smirked and paced his way inside.


Barry didn't know when he fell asleep. As he opened his eyes he could see the light rays of sunlight filtering in to signal the start of a new day. He gave a sigh looking over at his watch that was laying on the night stand. Seven A.M. Seven A.M? He couldn't believe it. He actually slept through the whole night. No nightmare. He wasn't sure if he even dreamed at all. He was up an hour early and had plenty of time to get ready for work. He smiled and tossed back the covers excitedly. If this could be his new normal, he could definitely live with that.

The CCPD Precinct was in an uproar when Barry walked in. There was another warehouse break in last night. This time there was video evidence of the crime. The first real lead they had since the mysterious break ins got started. Everyone had gathered around the small TV to watch the security footage. Singh was at the forefront of the group with Joe not too far off to the side. Barry's eyes locked with Joe's who motioned him to come closer. Barry strode over to stand beside Joe as the captain started to address the officers.

"O'kay guys. This security footage was taken last night at around eleven pm. It isn't much, but it does give us a pretty clear idea what we may be dealing with." With that Captain Singh pressed play on his remote and the grainy footage began to play. Security footage showed a person, presumably male by his size and gait, approaching the rear garage doors of the building. The suspect paced in front of the doors inspecting them. He took a few paces back and held up his hands before the building. Suddenly the garage door was opening and the figure slipped inside. Captain Singh fast forwarded the tape from 11:10 pm to 11:29 pm. The figure was seen emerging from the building with seemingly nothing in hand. The footage ended after the suspect exited the scene somewhere off camera. The officers erupted into questions.

"So are we dealing with another meta?"

"Did the facility report anything stolen?"

"The guy was in there for 20 minutes. He had to have gotten out of there with something."

Captain Singh signaled for everyone to calm down and be quiet so he could address everyone's inquiries. "It is still unclear if we are dealing with a meta or not, but from the looks of the footage, I'd say that it's highly likely. As of right now we don't have any documentation of anything that was actually stolen. Evidently there are a variety of things being stored in that warehouse. Mid-Central City Technical is in the process of doing a detailed inventory check to identify if anything was stolen, until then we don't have to much more to go on. As of right now we are looking for a male roughly between the ages of late twenties and early forties, possible meta, roughly between 150 to 200 lbs. It isn't much, but let's keep our eyes open and our mouths shut. None of the other warehouses had video security before. Mid-Central Tech just had theirs recently installed. It's possible the perp doesn't even think we have any leads. It's only a matter of time before this guy slips up, so no one needs to go blowing our only possible advantage here. Joe, I know she's your daughter, but let's not let the media get wind of this." Joe made a sign over his lips like they were zipped and sealed. Singh gave another nod. " Alright everyone. Back to work."

The officers dispersed to their various tasks. Barry headed up to his lab to get settled in for another busy day. It wasn't long before setting his bag down that he heard the door to his lab sliding further open. He glanced up to see Joe approaching his desk.

"So what do you think?" Joe asked curious to get his son's opinion.

"I don't really know. I mean it could be a meta like Singh says. Meta related crimes have been on the rise lately."

"Is there any way we can know for sure?"

"I could have Cisco take a look at the video. See if he sees anything or maybe vibe something off the guy."

"Sounds good." Joe studied Barry for a moment. "So how was your first night."

"It was good."

"It looks like it was good. YOU look good. Keep it up and you'll be earning your baby-face title back." Joe chuckled and was surprised to see Barry crack a smile back.

"The place is really cool. I already feel at home, and it was easier to settle into than I thought it would be."

"So where is this really cool place?" Joe was really curious. Barry had left in such hurry yesterday. He didn't even have his son's new address.

"It's in town. It's not too far," Barry answered vaguely. He turned is back to Joe seemingly looking for something in his bag. "Did they get any prints from the scene," Barry suddenly asked changing the subject.

"Uh no. Not yet. Sandy Snitchell from the Mid Central precinct is the one who took evidence from the scene. They're still processing making sure any prints lifted don't match any of the current employees." Joe didn't miss the subject change, but let it slide. The boy just moved. He'd give him time.

"I can head down there. See if I can help speed things along."

"Sounds good." Joe chuckled not missing the pun. Barry did seem a bit better. Maybe the move was just what he needed.

"Alright, let Singh know. I'm actually working. Not just taking off."

"I'll drop that tape off by Cisco and see what he can find."

"Ok call me if you get anything."


It was a long day of processing evidence even for a speedster. There were at least 150 employees working at Mid-Central City Technical. There were also several logs of who had clearance to where. The place wasn't just one big warehouse, but more like a series of small storage facilities each having their own designated list of individuals with access. Also they had to cross reference any prints that may have been left by whatever institution that was using the facility. It was all turning into one big headache. Barry decided to head over to S.T.A.R Labs to see if Cisco found anything new from the tape. As Barry entered the building, he didn't expect to see Iris heading in at the same time. His eyes locked onto her's remembering the kiss from the other night. The passion. The need. He felt his cheeks heat up at the thought. She smiled warmly at him.

"Hey Barr," Iris said sweetly falling in step beside him.

"Hey." Barry said heading over to the elevator. It wasn't long before the metal doors were sliding open before them and they entered together. Barry reached over punching the button that would take them to the Cortex.

"You look good, Barr. Did you shave, too," Iris asked reaching up to touch his cheek. She rubbed her thumb lightly over his jawline. Barry stilled at her touch. It was warm and comforting on his cheek. He wanted to melt into that touch. He wanted to bring her close. Hug her. Kiss her again. There was something still there though. Something was in his way. "Barr?" Her voice broke his thoughts and he realized he hadn't even responded.

"Yeah, last night. I kinda thought it was about time." She removed her hand stepping back to her side.

"So how was it?"

"It was great. Thanks for the pictures, by the way. It really warmed the place up."

"That's good. You know I was thinking. Maybe I could come over sometime? What are you doing tonight. We could cook dinner. I could see your place. Maybe watch a movie. It'd be nice, right? I can even cook all your favorites."

Barry wasn't sure he could make it through another night alone with Iris. A small part of him was happy that she finally felt for him the feelings that he had held for her so long. But things have changed. He has changed. Though, he has hopes that things will change back sooner rather than later, he knows he's nowhere near reciprocating her feelings. There was still a large part of him that felt tainted, dark, and empty. Pursuing a relationship with her now would be wrong. He would be using her to fill a void and would ultimately end up hurting her. He didn't want to go down that road. Not now. Not ever. "Ah. Maybe not tonight. I'm still getting settled in and there's a ton of work left to do on the Warehouse cases." The bell dinged signaling that they made it to their respective floor. Barry let Iris out first before stepping out himself. They rounded the long hallway in silence. They split off as they entered. Barry headed over to the computers to speak with Caitlin and Cisco. Iris headed over to where her father stood not too far behind.

"Did you guys get anything off the tape," Barry questioned not wasting any time.

"Like what? You literally brought us a tape of young Anakin Skywalker using the force to break in to some technical warehouse facility. There's not much else. It doesn't even look like he made it out with anything."

"Yeah they're still working through their inventory. They should have some idea by Tuesday next week."

"Sweet!" Cisco hopped out of his chair full of excitement. Barry and Caitlin shared a glance. "What? Look, the city has been quiet lately..."

"Relatively," Caitlin interrupted.

"I think it's the perfect time for us to take the weekend off."

"That's surprisingly irresponsible of you, Cisco." Caitlin smiled shaking her head resuming her work.

"All work and no play gives Cisco a bad Vibe. Look, we need some fun. Some action. We don't even have to go out really. We could spend the night in. Barry you've got a new place. Caitlin says it's awesome. How about a sleep over? You supply the pad and we'll supply the...cash? You know for snackage and stuff." Caitlin's eyebrows raised with question.

"Who's we?"

"Me and You?" Cisco signaled between him and Caitlin.

"Oh no. Don't volunteer my measly little paycheck. Everything I have is going into savings."

"What could you be possibly saving up for?"

"I don't think that's any of your business." She stated simply.

"Bet it's another absurd piece of equipment." Joe chuckled overhearing the two's bantering. Him and Iris had been speaking about the warehouse case. Her trying to gleam every possible piece of information from him. Fortunately he had nothing to offer that she could use. His eyes drifted over to Barry who seemed lost in his own thoughts. He had gone quiet listening to their back and forth. The banter between Cisco and Caitlin subsided ending on a question that Barry obviously hadn't heard. "Barry?" Cisco called to him.

"Sorry, what?"

"I said, what do you think, man?"

"Oh." Barry rubbed the back of his neck. "I just remembered I have some stuff to do, sorry. I should actually probably get going."

"That sucks." Cisco said obviously disappointed.

"I know, man. I'm sorry. I'll make it up to you." Barry's face was pleading, and Cisco relented.

"Fine, ok. Then you are buying the snacks."

"Sure."

There was a short pause and then Barry said his goodbyes to everyone. He was relieved when he made it through his front door. He hadn't realized just how much his anxiety had started to build while meeting with everyone. The dark calm of the house was welcoming. He exhaled slowly dropping his keys on the coffee table. He knew they'd be curious, and want to see his new place. He hadn't anticipated them being that curious. He had only spent one night, and they were already looking for an opportunity to come by. He hated keeping them at arms length on this, but this was the only place. This was the only place he had that didn't hold some memory or some connection to his father. It was the only place he could go right now that he felt free enough to breathe. Somehow the thought of his family and friends suddenly filling that place made him anxious and claustrophobic. He would invite them over at some point. Maybe even have a house warming party or something. He just needed more time to get better.