Chapter Forty-Seven – Last Lunch Break

"Fuck, I don't feel ready for this." Gavin sighed as they entered the bullpen. It was Tuesday morning and they were finally ready for the operation. Theoretically. They'd tested out Nines' GPS and backup to ensure they worked, along with his improved communications device. Elijah had assured them both that Nines' casing could now withstand a substantial amount of abuse. Gavin had also spent a few hours learning as much about Nines' internal workings as possible. He still wouldn't be able to do much, but Elijah had at least been able to tell him how to bypass the flow of thirium to certain parts, so if he got badly injured in the shoulder or leg he could bypass the limb to save thirium. He'd also been shown how to perform an emergency reboot by disconnecting and reconnecting the main flow valve that ran between his core and thirium pump. It wouldn't work for all malfunctions, but it was a good start.

"What's this?" Hank asked as Nines handed him a neatly folded piece of expensive looking paper. Gavin watched curiously as the old man opened it with a frown. "Are you fucking kidding me?" He grumbled, handing the paper to a curious Connor, who appeared at his shoulder as if summoned. He'd always show up when Hank was in a bad mood. He was the only one who could calm the old man down. He quietly asked what it was all about as he looked down at the paper, his LED spinning yellow once before he lowered the paper and looked up at Nines.

"Mr Kamski acquired your schematics?" He asked seriously, as if troubled.

"He did. I believe he has been in contact with Markus. That was how he was able to repair the damage done to my outer shell, as well as fully upgrading my internal systems." Nines replied, offering his hand to interface with his brother and allowing him to assess the changes himself. Connor accepted the exchange, their LEDs flashing yellow as a sign they were linked as they both froze in place. "Elijah believes he will be able to upgrade your body also, should you desire it. His offer is sincere." The younger android assured. Connor's expression was filled with distrust, but not for Nines. It made Gavin curious as to just what shit his brother had pulled in the past.

"Are we ready for the final rundown?" Hank asked as they headed into the small meeting room they'd been working in. Gavin nodded silently, finding himself too pent up to answer out loud. It was just the four of them. They would also have Tina and Ben in a cruiser, but they wouldn't be coming in until later. They didn't want to risk a marked car near the abduction point. Hank stood while the other three sat. Connor was upright and attentive, totally untroubled on the outside. Gavin was slouched in his chair, staring at Hank but not really seeing him. He was too worried to focus. He already knew the plan inside out anyway. Nines was listening attentively, but his eyes would often stray to Gavin, offering a reassuring smile.

The plan was set. They would be going to the second drop point. It was in an alley close to the Eden Club, which was a popular abduction spot. Nines and Gavin would go into the alley and start looking around as if investigating, then Gavin would leave Nines as if he were going to search for more witnesses. Nines would remain in the alley, alone. Hank and Connor would watch his signal from their car a street over and Nines would remain connected to Connor in a call. They'd settled on the early evening. It was early enough that it was believable for detectives to be working on a case, but late enough for the Eden Club to be open. Gavin would go inside and question witnesses until Hank called to either chase after Nines or call it off for the night. There was no guarantee this was going to work.

In the event Nines got taken Hank would set off immediately and call Gavin on the way. Gavin would get in his own car to follow, and if they had an exact location they'd call in Tina and Ben for backup, more if the area seemed particularly busy. They'd wait for backup, burst in, arrest the suspects and free Nines. If Nines got in hot water before then they'd have no choice but to move in early. Gavin had made it clear that Nines was not expendable, not that Hank or Connor had ever suggested otherwise.

Gavin felt a deep pit in his stomach, a deep sense of foreboding. He could tell himself it would be fine as much as he liked. He could reassure himself that Nines knew what he was doing. He could remind himself that Hank and Connor would be right there with him. He could even consider that if the worst happened Elijah would be ready to step in and help as much as he could. No matter his thoughts, he couldn't deny the fact he was fucking terrified. Fuck! Don't be selfish now. If I'm scared then what the fuck is Nines going through? He wondered as he looked at his partner.

Nines' expression was unreadable for the most part, besides the soft assuring looks he kept sending Reed's way. His expression told him not to worry, that everything would work out alright. He couldn't know that. They couldn't guarantee that. What was Nines really feeling? His LED was spinning yellow, a sign that all was not quite right, but his expression gave away nothing. When he thought about it it was possible that all those years of abuse had given Nines an inner strength that none of them could fathom. At the same time he remembered how scared Nines had been at their first meeting, the innocent blue eyes peering up in terror from beneath a cold metal table. Nines was still that android on some level. He was uncertain in love, timid in nature, and easily scared when it came to Gavin's safety. But what about his own? Is he worried they'll hurt him? Is he scared right now?

"Alright, have some lunch and get yourselves ready for tonight." Hank sighed in conclusion, signalling an end to the meeting. Gavin's lips thinned as he looked across at his partner, who was currently facing Connor. Their LEDs were spinning a lazy yellow, telling him they were having some sort of silent conversation. "Were you even listening?" The older man sighed as he leaned on the table. He knew damn well that Gavin had been on another planet during his briefing. He'd expected better from the two androids.

"Of course, we are more than capable of completing multiple tasks simultaneously." Connor replied as if he were offended by the very idea. Nines nodded his silent agreement, his face still an unreadable mask that only softened as he met Gavin's worried shades of green. The quad parted into its usual pairs, each heading off for lunch to continue planning or take a break. From the grumble Connor was sending Hank Gavin could guess where the older man was dragging him. Connor had been trying relentlessly to get his human to abandon the greasy health hazard that was the Chicken Feed, without success. On the plus side he had at least won the older man around to home cooked dinners and healthy breakfasts. From the increase in muscle mass it seemed he'd also coaxed him into morning jogs and evening walks too, perhaps even the odd gym session.

"We should get a hobby…" Gavin reflected thoughtlessly, not realising the words had left his mouth until he noticed that Nines had fallen behind. His chest fuzzed at the idea, leading to a stammering objection leaving his lips. "I-I mean-I didn't-we don't…" He shut his mouth before he made an even bigger fool out of himself. As if he had time for hobbies. They worked too much. It was a dumb idea.

We already have one. There is still a lot I could teach you. Nines replied with his hands, a small smile crossing Gavin's lips as he remembered. He'd started off with his tutor and Connor, but since he was partnered with Nines he'd also picked up a lot from the android himself. It was bound to happen. Gavin was basically lower intermediate, so there were a lot of words he still didn't recognise. Whenever they came up Nines would either explain them or message him what the sign meant.

Fuck, it's been too long since we've done this. Gavin replied, feeling rusty even though it had only been a few days. They'd just been so caught up in the case that they hadn't thought to resort to sign language. It didn't help the Gavin's arm had been stuck in a sling for a few days either. Nines stepped closer as they walked, their shoulders almost brushing in the wide corridor.

I like it…It is our own secret language that few others can understand. Nines admitted, which was one of the reasons Gavin enjoyed it so much. He'd watched other officers eyeing them curiously, wondering what they were talking about. Hank did it too sometimes, scowling as he looked between them as if he might be the topic of conversation. The only one he knew that could definitely read them was Connor, and he'd even join them on occasion, but strictly on case related topics. If he read something personal he would politely turn his head, though whether that meant he was no longer reading what was said he wasn't sure. The turn of the head and pretending he wasn't listening was polite though. Hell, it's Connor. He probably isn't listening in, he'd think it bad mannered.

Yeah, me too…What sort of hobby could we even take up with the hours we work? Gavin joked dismissively, knowing it was impractical for them to join any sort of club. Their shifts were never constant, and they did a ridiculous amount of overtime. Hell, overtime is my fucking hobby! He'd never considered turning down an extra shift or saying he needed a break. Fowler and Hank were the ones who kept an eye on him and made sure he took breaks at all. Even Connor had taken an active interest in his state of mind. Until Nines came along.

There are many things. We could make something, or complete a puzzle, or make use of the gymnasium together. Nines suggested with more enthusiasm than Gavin had expected. He scoffed lightly, unwilling to shoot down the ideas without further investigation. They were detectives after all. Maybe it would be nice, building a cabinet or something. Completing a jigsaw seemed dumb, but maybe it would be fun, unless Nines scanned all of the pieces and figured out how to do it within a few seconds. The gymnasium was something he should have thought up sooner, but that could wait until his damn shoulder healed.

Not a bad idea…We'll look into it, right? Gavin asked, silently seeking reassurance. They were making future plans. Plans for after this mission. Nines couldn't go and get himself killed, not when they had plans, right? Nines gave him that increasingly familiar smile, the one that said everything was going to be alright.

Of course…For now we should have lunch. He replied as he steered Gavin through the main doors and outside. They walked down the street to a small place that had become something of a regular lunch spot. It was one of the few places that had a few thirium options, so Nines could eat with him. Gavin opted for his usual chicken sandwich and chips while Nines ordered the thirium pasta. They sat in the same small window booth as before, their feet touching beneath the table. Gavin sipped a cola for a change while Nines drank a glass of thirium.

Are you worried? Gavin asked curiously, thinking it wise to keep their conversation as private as possible. Nines also tended to respond better to sign language with heavy topics, so he was more likely to get an honest response. Nines took his time, hands clutching his half empty glass as he thought about his response, probably trying to figure out how to be honest without worrying Gavin. I'm worried too. The human cut in.

I admit to feeling a certain amount of…apprehension. I will be putting myself in danger after all…I suppose I feel less afraid because I have you. Nines replied with a trusting look in his eyes, and Gavin knew he had to live up to that. Maybe that's why I feel more worried than usual…Usually I can keep it together for these missions, but with Nines…He still hadn't considered what he would do if something happened, if he lost the android. They'd only been partnered for just over three weeks. He didn't know how the android had gotten under his skin so quickly. Hell, I'd be lying if I said it was only after these three weeks. He had me from the moment I saw those sad blue eyes under that table.

I'll do my best for you Nines, I promise. Reed signed knowing that he couldn't, in good conscience, promise he'd definitely keep him safe. He didn't like to make promises he couldn't keep. He wanted to keep it. He wanted to be able to protect Nines and guarantee his safety, but he just couldn't.

I never doubted that Gavin. His partner replied with a soft look in his eyes. His lips spread into a small smile, one that most people wouldn't notice, but Gavin saw it. Whatever possessed Cyberlife to make him look so fucking adorable? He was way cuter than Connor, even if he did have one hell of a resting bitchface. He also wondered what kind of sickos had been working for Cyberlife, that they could torture him for hours on end when he looked so damn innocent and helpless. A small part of him hoped Nines' captors would be put off by his sweetness, but they'd already smashed up eight other androids. Eight other people who'd had friends and families hoping and praying for their safe return.

The pair fell silent as their food arrived, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the diner. It was relatively quiet. They'd gone on lunch later than usual, so most other diners would be back at work already. There were a few school kids in a booth across from theirs, leaning close together and giggling as they looked across, most likely at Nines. There was an old couple further off, holding hands across their small table in a way that told Gavin they'd been together a good many years. A server was walking around idly, wiping down tables and tidying up. A couple young men were just ordering at the counter, their clothes suggesting they worked in construction.

What is your favourite colour? Nines asked out of the blue, Gavin pausing with his sandwich half way to his mouth. He quirked an eyebrow. Really? You're doing this now? He thought, wondering what had come over his partner to ask something so mundane. I just…realised I didn't know… The android added uncertainly. Gavin huffed in amusement. If it made Nines happy he'd do this shit all day.

Blue. What's yours? He asked in response, thinking it fair to get an answer for an answer.

Green…but I am also partial to brown. Nines replied, which surprised Reed. He'd thought for sure his partner would opt for black, since a lot of his clothing was black. But then Nines would probably argue that black isn't a colour…What is your favourite animal? Nines asked, not even giving Gavin the chance for a breather.

I thought you knew that one…Cats. Doesn't matter what size. Fucking love them.He replied, grinning as he thought back to the day he'd first visited his current house on a case. One of the owners had been horrifically mauled, and the blame was almost placed on the security cat. After a little digging Gavin had figured out that the murder had been committed by a disgruntled co-worker, and that they'd re-wired the feline model to attack the husband during his lunch break. After that the woman and her child had moved out. The house left too many bad memories, and they couldn't bear to even look at the android cat. He knew androids weren't supposed to feel anything, but fuck if that cat didn't look like the saddest creature in the world. They'd wanted the house gone as soon as possible, so Gavin had asked about the price. Since he'd helped them so much, solved the case and all, they offered it to him at a steal. Lynx and all.

I believe that Lynx is your favourite breed…You have an affinity for the tufts on his ears. Nines replied, having watched Gavin for hours on end. He'd always teased the black tufts when playing with Lynx's ears and stroking his jowls. Even when he'd been unable to see he'd still favoured teasing those small tufts, and Lynx had purred on his chest the whole time.

Maybe you're right. Lynx is certainly up there, but I love all cats, even the regular moggies. He replied, impressing Nines with the way he spelled out the final word. It wasn't one the android had come across, though he knew it had to mean some form of cat. The regular domestic cat…Your turn, favourite animal…Don't tell me. You take after your brother and you love dogs. The human continued teasingly, though he didn't hold it against Connor. Some people just had poor taste in animals.

I have to admit, I do find Sumo endearing. Nines admitted, watching Gavin nod his agreement.

Sumo is the exception. He doesn't even count as a dog! He's more like a bear. Gavin interrupted, having spent some time with the dog a few years back. Before Hank lost Cole. Back when they'd worked together pretty regularly and even met up outside of work.

I understand why you would make that comparison. His breed is above average in size…Endearing as he is I find my taste more aligned with yours. Felines are far superior…I believe I favour tigers. The white ones in particular have a certain…beauty. Nines replied thoughtfully, and Gavin wouldn't argue. Tigers were cool. It made sense that the android would like the white ones. They were like his soul animal. They shared both his black on white colour coding and his almost ethereal blue eyes. They also shared grace and poise, likely speed and strength too. Did you ever see a real white tiger? They were not yet extinct when you were a child. Nines asked curiously.

Sure, I went to Animal Kingdom when I was a kid…Wish I'd appreciated it more, paid more attention…Fuck, humans are trash. He replied, his mood dropping as he remembered seeing the park with his mum, back before she lost her job. She must have saved for months to afford those damn trips…He thought regretfully, wishing he'd had the chance to pay her back. It wouldn't be the same to go now, the original animals long replaced by android replicas. So many species lost. Polar bears, tigers, lions, elephants, rhinos, fuck even kangaroos. Humans had cleaned up since, but not in time to stop the wildlife dying out. Typical fucking humanity, looking out for number one…We're lucky there are even domestic animals left!

I disagree…Although some humans are cruel and selfish in nature I believe the majority are better than that. Nines replied, not reacting as Gavin scoffed. He couldn't blame Nines for thinking that. He'd been made by humans. It was probably something left over from his original programming. That was the only conclusion he could think of. How could he say that otherwise? After the way humans had treated him? You are better than that. He added in a way that made Gavin's heart pound.

Trust me Nines, if you'd met me last year you wouldn't have said that…Just ask your brother. The human objected, putting his empty plate aside as he finished his cola.

Last year…You have changed since then. Grown and improved. Nines replied simply, though Gavin had no idea how he knew. He'd probably had a sit down with Connor about it at some point. Someone had to have tried warning him what a terrible fucking idea it had been to partner up with him, not to mention signing Gavin up as his owner. Connor actually speaks rather highly of you. The android added almost smugly.

I think deviancy knocked one of your brother's screws loose…But then he always was a weirdo. Gavin replied with a huff, though Nines knew he was quietly pleased. It had been difficult not to notice the improvement between the pair. It was a process that had started before Nines' arrival, but even he'd picked up on it. Gavin was never disrespectful towards his brother. He'd even defer to him and seek him out for certain things. Had I not arrived…would Gavin have…liked Connor? Nines wondered hesitantly, unsure how he felt about that thought. You better not be thinking weird shit again…The human chided suspiciously. Nines shook his head. It didn't matter what might have been. Nines was there now, and he'd made his mark. Gavin is my human. He thought, levelling the brunette with a possessive stare that made him speechless.

They eventually headed back, continuing their exchange of useless information. Useless to Gavin at least, and he doubted he'd remember all of it. They talked about food, drink, clothes, and touch. Touch was an interesting topic. Gavin was quite sensory. He liked different materials, and they could make him feel different things. The feeling of thirium on his skin had weirded him out and almost sent him into a panic attack, though that was mostly because it had been Nines'. He loved soft things, especially fur, which explained why he liked Sumo despite not being a huge fan of dogs. Soft things were calming and soothing.

They why do you not wear soft things to work, like Connor? Nines asked curiously, knowing his brother always wore at least one soft item of clothing he could finger while working. Often it would be a woollen sweater vest, but more recently he'd opted for soft wool or cotton tops with long sleeves. He was especially fond of the creamy caramel top Gavin had gifted him.

Because I need to be alert at work. If I'm blissed out all the time I'll miss details. I work best when I'm slightly on edge. Gavin replied, though he certainly didn't wear anything uncomfortable. His woollen V-necks were a little rougher than Connor's, and he always wore jeans, but they were all worn in and comfortable. He just made sure he wasn't overly content. Nines found it curious because he didn't feel things quite the same way that Gavin did. He quietly wished that he could experience the true feeling of softness.

"Final countdown kids. Get yourselves ready." Hank hollered as they entered, Gavin's vitals immediately spiking at the news. He'd known it was coming. That didn't make it any easier to deal with. Nines and Gavin both approached their desks, where Nines removed his white leather jacket, leaving it almost lovingly over the back of his chair. From a bag beside his desk he pulled out his old Cyberlife jacket. If he was going to be abducted for being an android he may as well make it obvious. Gavin's eyes raked over him, surprised by his own feelings as he watched Nines slip into his old jacket.

"Gavin?" Nines questioned curiously as he noticed the spike of arousal. It was curious. Gavin had been the most vocal about getting him to remove his Cyberlife attire, and yet he was clearly experiencing arousal at the sight of him once more donning the stiff collared jacket. Gavin coughed awkwardly to cover his embarrassment. He checked his holster, opening up the chamber of his sidearm to check it before slipping the clip back into place with a click. He also had his phone and keys. Bullet proof vests were already stowed in the boot of his car for later. They were ready to go.

"Fuck, two minutes." Gavin said as he grabbed Nines and dragged him a little way down the hall and into the men's bathroom. Usually he'd be subtle about it, but they were literally heading for a life or death mission, so fuck it. Hank had sighed his impatience as they left while Connor spared them a look of understanding. As soon as the door shut Gavin pulled Nines down, not even checking to make sure the room was empty. They were damn lucky.

"Wait-Gavin-what?" Nines stammered as his lips were assaulted, barely able to get a word out between the needy insistent kisses. At any other time he would be happy to receive Gavin's affection, but right before their mission seemed a poor time. For Gavin it was the best time. Maybe Nines just didn't have the sensation of impending dread, the knowledge that this could be their last kiss. Despite his confusion Nines gave into the kisses, holding Gavin's waist as he allowed the human to tease his tongue.

"As soon as this mission is over we're going to go home. You're going to wear that jacket. You're going to bend me over the nearest available surface, and you're going to fuck me until I can't see straight. You got that?" Gavin demanded needily, their lips pink and wet as he drew back and stared up with wide green eyes. Nines' LED cycled through red and yellow at the heated demand, unable to prevent his preconstruction software already mapping out Gavin's apartment for the perfect surface that came within those specifications. The important part came to him as he noticed the tension in the fists bunched in his jacket. Once the mission is over…Once we are safe…Once I am safe.

"Understood." Nines agreed softly as he cupped Gavin's cheek with one hand, staring deep into his eyes with his usual steady confidence. He allowed their lips to meet in one final kiss, far more innocent than the last, before he drew back. "Lieutenant Anderson and Connor are waiting." He stated meaningfully, his eyes softening as he noted Gavin's reluctance to leave. He nodded assuringly and his human grasped the handle.