Hawk silently studied the group in front of him. They had just briefed him about their trip to Las Vegas and although they hadn't told him anything he hadn't already heard from Lady Jaye, he was letting it all soak in.

He already knew he was going to send them to Atlantic City, in the same personas Allie had created for them, but he wasn't sure of a few things.

For one, Flint was looking decidedly uncomfortable. He wondered what his warrant officer was thinking. Gung Ho, on the other hand, looked downright cheerful.

Lady Jaye was trying to catch his attention. She made a few slight gestures he took to mean she wanted to speak to him. Alone. He gave a slight nod, and cleared his throat, knowing all eyes were on him.

"I'll let you know my decision about Atlantic City, and whether we're going to actively pursue it, by this evening. For now, get some rest."

The others left the room with this dismissal, leaving Lady Jaye and Hawk alone.

"What's on your mind?" he asked her as she closed the door behind them.

She bit her lip, wondering just how free she was to discuss what she was thinking.

Hawk nodded, reading her dilemma. "I always expect you to be honest with me and give me your opinion, Allie," he told her, indicating the chair in front of him. "That will never change, whether I'm your CO or just your friend."

She gave a quick smile and sat down. Leaning forward, she began.

"The team did well in Vegas, they really did."

Hawk sensed a "but" in there somewhere. He sat back and waited.

She sighed. "Some took better to the assignment than others. Not that they didn't do a good job and what was asked of them, without complaint," she explained quickly. "It's just that, comfort-wise…."

"You'd rather take a smaller contingent to Atlantic City," Hawk finished for her.

She nodded, smiling, relieved that he understood what she was saying.

"Gung Ho was a natural and we did a good job establishing a sound cover. I'd find them to be more interested in checking out this new casino than the spoiled heiress that Shana played."

Hawk steepled his fingers, thinking. "So, you're saying you and Gung Ho should infiltrate the Cobra casino only."

"With backup nearby, yes. Just not covertly so," she explained quickly, glad that Hawk seemed to be considering her request. "I think it would seem too suspicious if all five of us showed up again."

Hawk nodded, settling back in his chair. "I have a few things to consider, and then I'll let you know with the others tonight. I will definitely take into consideration what you just suggested."

Knowing he couldn't give her a definite answer without discussing it with the others, she nodded, getting up to leave.

"Allie," Hawk said, making her pause with her hand on the doorknob.

"Yes?" she said, glancing over her shoulder.

"Good job," he said simply, the two words having a world of meaning for her.

She gave him a genuine smile. "Thanks," she replied, then left.