Disclaimer: No, Hawaii 5-0 doesn't belong to me. It does to CBS.

A/N: When the fifth wave hit me, I wasn't sure if I would pursue it. I did not like where it was going. Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts on what could have made Danny cried. It helped me moved on with the story.

This part and the next have been inspired by your comments and three conversations: One with my best friend, a marine biologist, about a fish tank; a second with a friend from Argentina I meet everyday at the bus stop; and a third with a Vietnam veteran, now acclaimed poet. As the former likes to say, "When it comes to writing, I am a thief." Well, so am I. Thank you all for sharing your inspiration and creativity.

Warning: The story has not been proof-read by a native English speaker. If you are not offended by possible typos and my broken English, please read on and enjoy!

000

ROLLING IN WAVES: Fifth Wave

12: The icebreaker

The day before…

Having hit a dead end in their current case, Steve and Danny were going back to their first witness for a second interview. Mariana Diaz, originally from Argentina, had moved to Hawaii with her husband and their six year-old boy, Miguel. Three years later, the hubby was now her ex and his dealings were turning out to be somewhat questionable. Arguing that when a child was involved nothing was clear cut between an ex-couple, Danny had proposed that they talk to Mariana again.

"At the next set of lights, make a right turn on Kahaloa Street," Danny told his partner.

From the driver's seat, Steve gave him an inquisitive glance. "What's on Kahaloa Street?"

"A pet store," replied Danny.

"What could you possibly want at a pet store?" asked Steve.

"A bone for you," said Danny deadpan.

"Funny," grumbled the driver. "We're going to a witness' house – a witness you suggested we re-interview. It isn't the best time to stop at a pet store."

"I know where we're going and it is the perfect time to stop at a pet store," said Danny, hands emphasis every words as always. "I can't possibly change the filter in the fish tank if I don't bring a filter in the first place, can I?"

"You want to go back to Mariana's to change the filter in her fish tank?" questioned Steve.

"Not specifically," answered Danny. "I want an opportunity to have a chat with Miguel while you talk with Mariana. It's an icebreaker. Stuff like that makes kids at ease. Considering how bad you are with children, I don't expect you to understand."

"Hey! I'm not bad with children," said Steve. "I'm good with Grace. Well, I'm good enough for you to let me close to her."

The father pondered his point for a few seconds. "Yes, you are good with Grace."

This straight and candid recognition from Danny warmed Steve's heart more than he ever thought it would. As much as his partner could rant and exaggerate, Danny was also fair and honest. Steve admired those qualities. "Thank you." he said on a tone that did not let on too much on the depth of his feelings. Doing so would just put the two partners ill at ease. "Changing the filter is very nice of you. I'm sure the fish's going to appreciate it."

"Well, the poor thing deserves to be saved, too."

And Danny has a huge heart, Steve added to his train of thoughts. "Had a fish tank when you were growing up?"

"More like 35," replied Danny. "Back in high school, I had a part time job in my Uncle Lane's pet store. I learned to clean fish tanks and a heck of lot of other things that make me glad Gracie doesn't bringing Mr. Hoppy when she comes over for the weekend."

Steve grinned. "I bet."

A few minutes later, the Camaro was parked in front of store. "Stay, I'll be right back," said Danny.

Steve was about to protest by making a barking sound, but thought otherwise. Danny was too capable of retaliating by buying him a dog bone. Something he liked a little less about his partner.

000

A/N: I hope you enjoyed. A third and final part to the fifth wave is coming.

(Jan. 2011)