Vala had only been in Washington a week, and was already bored. She relished the time when Daniel was home with her. That is why his announcement of leaving her alone for the evening, was just inconceivable to her.

"But I know how to play poker, Daniel." She said her bottom lip pouting.

"Guys night Vala." He said to her as he walked into the bedroom they were sharing. "So no, you're not coming."

"But, I am so bored!" She said throwing her hands up in the air to emphasize the point. "Please Daniel?"

He turned to her, a softness to his eyes, "I know. But I haven't seen Jack since Sam left. The last time I talked to him, he was better, but not good. Next time. I promise." He walked to her and kissed her on the cheek, and headed towards the door of their hotel room.

"Well, I'm ordering room service …and a pay-per-view!" she said to the closing door.

-o-o-o-

The apartment was far more elegant than Daniel would have imagined for Jack.

"It came this way." Jack said when he caught the look on Daniel's face.

"Yeah…" Daniel nodded his head ever so slightly.

Jack handed him a beer and they walked into the living room.

"How are you Jack?" Daniel asked; concern laced the edges of his voice.

"I'm good Daniel."

Daniel raised his eyebrow at him, "Good?"

"I'm good." Jack shot a small smile at his friend. "Listen, finish that up. We have to meet George at eight."

-o-o-o-

When a very drunk Daniel Jackson made his way back to his hotel room early in the morning, Vala was up waiting for him.

"So what did you boys talk about?" Vala asked him, as she helped him get undressed.

"Candy stores." Daniel slurred, trying to hold back a laugh.

"Candy stores?" Vala asked.

"And how you are the owner of mine, so you have to come with us next time." Daniel smiled and pulled her towards him.

"And what else? Daniel, please. I am starved for attention here!" Vala said desperately.

"We talked about Sam. We talked about you." He shot her another smile, and kissed her.

As Vala lay in their bed, Daniel sound asleep next to her, she made a mental note to ask Sam about 'candy stores'. That still confused her.

TBC

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