Zaid was unprepared for how peaceful this place seemed. From the small refurbished church in the center of town to the quaint little school they passed when they'd first arrived, this place was picture perfect. He and Petra pulled up to what appeared to be Haven's only hotel. While they unloaded their bags from the trunk both were looking around professionally. Signs of life were everywhere; the town was waking up. Zaid felt a momentary pang of guilt for the commotion he and his partner were about to cause.
A big black man, almost as large as Zaid himself, stood at the front desk. He watched as the pair drew nearer but remained silent until they reached his counter.
We'll need two rooms, joined preferably, Petra began. We'll pay for a week upfront, but we may be staying longer.
The man nodded and produced the keys. That's a lot of luggage for a weeks stay.
Zaid looked over his shoulder at the boxes of weapons, inhibitor collars, and various other tools of their trade. We've been on the road for quite a while. He shrugged.
And what brings you to Haven? The big man seemed faintly suspicious.
Just passing through, Petra lied smoothly. We just wanted someplace quiet to relax a bit before moving on.
Finally he nodded. Welcome to Haven. My name's Bishop. If there's anything you need, just ask.
Petra flashed him a smile. It surprised Zaid how good she was with people. Sometimes he wondered at her choice of careers. ~What choice did you leave her with?~ his conscience screamed.
Ignoring his guilt and Bishop, who was still giving him that suspicious look, Zaid led the way up to their rooms. They still had much to do before they could complete their job.
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Bishop watched till the two newcomers had found their rooms before walking into the hotel's small restaurant. His wife's melodious laugh, along with Lex's softer chuckle filled the room. Both women smiled at him as he entered.
Good morning Bishop. Lex pushed a chair out with her foot, inviting her to join them.
Giving June a quick kiss, Bishop took the seat gladly. He helped himself to the leftover fruit salad on the table before speaking. We've got a couple of visitors.
Imagine that, June teased him. Visitors in a hotel. I know it doesn't happen all that often around here but it's hardly earthshaking news.
Bishop tossed a grape at her. They're an odd pair. Both about as big as me, a man and a woman. They had an awful lot of luggage to be innocent travelers.
Lex's gray-green eyes narrowed thoughtfully. I trust your instincts, Bish. It won't hurt to be cautious around them... at least until we know more about them.
More about who? a faintly accented voice cut through their conversation.
Morning Gabe, Bishop greeted the mechanic, seeing that Lex was not about to answer.
Gabriel chose a seat between Bishop and the redhead, his blue eyes locked on her smoky ones before turning his attention back to his friend. I notice we've got some visitors.
It's nothing to get excited about, Lex interjected before Bishop could speak. We're perfectly fine here.
Never said you weren't, Gabe answered in his quiet voice. Just thought I'd come see how you were doing this mornin'.
Lex's smoky eyes were as hard as flint. No. Admit it, you thought you'd come check up on us. She rose to leave the table.
Gabe gave a low growl, refusing to fight with her... this time. Bishop, you'll let me know if these strangers cause any problems, right?
Bishop nodded gravely. Out of the corner of his eye he noticed June fetching a large picture of water. Good. Things had a way of bursting into flames after Lex had talked with Gabe.
The tall mechanic had also risen. Ya'll have a good day. I'll see you around Bishop, June... Lex.
Bishop struggled to hide his smile as he watched his friend leave. Those two weren't fooling anyone, except maybe themselves. Suddenly he caught the smell of smoke.
Sure enough, three of the tables near Lex had caught fire. She was still glaring after Gabe, fists clenched. The nerve, she raged. Thinking he needs to check up on me!
Calm down, June chided, pouring water on the nearest blaze. You're going through tablecloths faster than I can purchase them. You've got to stop letting him get to you.
With a faintly embarrassed look, Lex quickly began helping extinguish the fires. The three were so intent on containing the damage they didn't even notice the big figure watching them intently from the doorway.