Chapter 27- Dinner

A/N Sorry about the wait, I am working on the next chapter as well. Year 12 is rough, there is so much work and not enough free time, I really am trying but it's just hard to concentrate on this so be patient. But thanks for those continuing to read, and as always don't forget to review.

Nick drove Connor and Abby back to their flat, leaving Avery to get dropped off at her apartment by Ryan.

Realising it was getting late she sent a quick text to Michael; Hey I'm free tonight. Still feel like going out?

Yeah sure. I'll pick you up around five :)

Why so early?

You'll find out soon ;)

Oh and where something comfortable and practical.

Avery chuckled. He still wouldn't tell her the surprise.

"What are you laughing about?" Ryan asked at they neared her place.

"Oh, just something my boyfriend said."

"It that the same one I heared Nick telling Claudia about?"

"Yep. He's taking me out for dinner tonight."

"Well I hope you have a good night."

"Thanks Ryan, I'll see you tomorrow." She hopped out of the car and got inside. Changing quickly and putting on some eyeliner and lip gloss she settled down on the couch with a book. It would be an hour until Michael came.

When Michael arrived, she was confused when they drove up to a shooting gallery. "I thought we were going out to dinner?"

"We are. Just after, I wanted to give you your surprise now."

She gave him a hug and a quick kiss as they headed inside. "Thankyou."

Becker noticed Avery with someone as he walked into the shooting gallery. It was one of the only shooting places open this late.

"Hey Becker." Avery said as he approached a booth next to her. "How's the leg?"

"It's better now, I just have to be careful so I'm off missions for a little while." He said.

"Who's this Avery? And what was that about missions?" Her companion said.

"Michael this is Becker, Becker this is the boyfriend I told you about. Becker works at the same office I do. I told you I work at the home office as a secretary. Nothing special." Avery sent Becker a look, silently telling him Michael didn't know about her job. This made Becker even more curious about what she did, if she couldn't even tell her own boyfriend.

"Yeah. I've met her around the office. I didn't know you could shoot." Becker said to Avery, looking at the gun in her hand.

"Yeah, not only that I'm a great shot." She said with pride.

"Think you can beat me?"

"Yes."

"Prove it." Becker said crossing his arms and standing back. "Ladies first."

Avery stepped towards the booth and aimed her gun steadily at the target. With six quick shots, she hit the innermost circle of the chest.

She stood back and looked at Becker, gesturing for him to have a try.

Becker admired her shot for a quick moment before stepping forward, raising his gun to eye lever. He hit the middle of the target, the same as Avery.

Avery whistled. "I guess we're about the same."

"Yeah." Becker agreed turning towards her and placing the gun down. "Where did you learn to shoot like that?"

"My dad and his assistant Stephen. They usually use tranquilizers but sometimes they need something stronger."

"That's pretty good."

They stayed at the shooting gallery for a little longer, until Michael said it was time for dinner.

"It was nice meeting you Michael." Becker said gripping the shorter man's hand. "Maybe I'll see you aroud the office Avery?"

"Yeah sure. I have a feeling I'll be around there for a while." Avery said goodbye, then they headed towards the restaurant. It was a small Italian place; beautifully decorated.

"So how's work been going?" Michael asked as they sat at a small table on the balcony of the building. It was a surprisingly warm night, and the sounds of the town bustling beneath created a nice atmosphere.

"Same old." Avery said dismissing him.

"Well your working at the home office. There must be some interesting things going on there?"

"Not really." Avery said dismissively. "How have your courses been going?" Avery said trying to change the subject.

Michael sighed placing his fork down. "Why do you do that?"

"What?"

"Dismiss anything that comes up about work. And I saw the look you gave Becker. Why are you lying to me?" He pushed, standing up to face her.

"Just leave it please. I don't want to fight." Avery grabbed his hand, but he slipped it out of hers and got up.

"I can't. Just let me think about it for a few days. I'll call you." He turned, dropped some money on the table and left, not looking back.

Avery quickly paid the check and rushed out hoping to catch him. She saw him get into his car and drive away. Angry at his overreaction she hailed a cab home to her apartment.