A Man from U.N.C.L.E. Story
by Darklady
Chapter Forty-Five: No Expectations
Rated: PG-13
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David has the table set in the dining room when we come down. It is very cheerful, with pink and orange napkins and bright paper flowers, but it is still indoors. I say nothing, as they will say nothing... but it marks the trouble we have brought into their lives. Not that the risk of innocents is anything new, but thinking of *Mark* as innocent? That is so strange I am not certain even now I quite manage. But... I miss the patio.
Napoleon has his Monday night suit, but with the Russian tie. Chosen for it's color, no doubt. I think he would rather burn it, but after leaving the other on the floor all night, that suit is in need of more then just a quick steaming. I am also wearing black. Not from diplomacy. Those are merely the clothes I have left. Perhaps when this is over we should both go shopping.
"Sit down, guys." Mark comes in with a pitcher of juice. "Since you picked up berries, we get waffles today. I was hoping for blini, but the health police..."
David follows with a wrapped basket. "You want a heart attack? Get one." He places the basket in front of Mark, right between the honey and the raspberries. "But not in my kitchen." Then he vanishes back into the kitchen.
"Did you hear that?" Mark takes his seat and spears a golden waffle still steaming from the iron. "Don't kid yourself about relationships. They are never equal. It's our house, but it's *his* kitchen."
David comes in on that, but says nothing. I fact, from the looks he gives Mark I would suspect he agrees. "The white bowl is creme fraiche with vanilla." He places the bowl between myself and Napoleon before taking his seat. "And Mark, you go easy on that."
Mark ignores him, loading his waffle with berries and creme. "So Illya ...Napoleon . What do you plan to do today?"
Napoleon takes a deep sip of juice before preparing his own waffle. "Find a new car?"
I take a waffle, and Mark passes the berries. "Did April get the first one patched yet?"
Napoleon shrugs. "I haven't checked the messages this morning." Then he turns to me. "I think we'd best go down to headquarters - wherever that is - and have a talk with the local people. Three times is definitely enemy action."
I say nothing. He is too obviously right to require a response.
Mark nods. "Take my car." Pulling out a heavy chain he removes two keys. "It's been in the garage. With the other outside? Odds are mine is clean. Really." He exchanges a look with his partner. "Less chance of it being spotted, and I'd prefer to ride in with David."
That brings a snort from David. "You? Let me drive?"
Mark ostentatiously pulls his boot pistol, checking the clip before handing it to David. "You drive better then you shoot. Besides, if something goes down April will walk me for her own sake."
END CHAPTER FORTY-FIVE