A/N It's been years, but why not…. I had a few notes saved in my computer.

Chapter 3: Presentations & Disappearing

Melinda was pleased with herself and the board with how the conference was progressing. Friday was a success with the meet and greet mixer and opening dinner session. Strong presentations were planned throughout the day, and she knew no matter which panels or workshops participants attended they would get useful knowledge for their specific field of work.

"Mel... Earth to Melinda," Fin said in a sing-song voice. "You need to eat your breakfast. What are you thinking about?"

"I'm glad that the conference is going well so far. I don't know if I'll be able to eat. I feel too excited and nervous about my presentation this morning."

"Aw babe, you know you're going to kill it!"

"Holly, I love you, but If I have to hear that presentation one more time with all those giant words I do not understand, I swear my head will explode," Gail exclaimed.

"I just want to make sure it's perfect."

"It is perfect. You're perfect. You are going to be great."

Holly gave Gail her crooked smile and replied, "Nothing and no one is perfect, but I appreciate the sentiment."

"Slow down Jane, no one is going to take your food from you."

"Maura, these muffins are so damn good!"

"Well I'm glad you're eating for the both of us. I don't have much of an appetite I'm afraid."

"I can think of another muffin, I'd rather be eating," Jane smirked.

"Jane Clementine Rizzoli, how dare you try to distract me."

"What? I'm not trying to distract you. I'm trying to de-stress you."

"As appealing as that sounds, I don't have time. There are some really cool presentations I want to check out before I speak at lunch."

"Oh come on. Just give me 5 minutes," Jane grinned coyly.

Maura busted out laughing, "It will not just be 5 minutes, and you know that."

Maura and Jane attended Melinda and Holly's morning sessions. Maura was impressed with their experience and research while Jane felt bored to death. Jane figured after she watched Maura give the plenary presentation at lunch, she would plan her line of escape. Once they entered the hotel ballroom where lunch was being served, Jane spotted Gail and headed over to chat.

"Are you having as much fun as I am," Jane asked sarcastically.

Gail rolled her eyes and replied, "I am bored to tears."

"I have to watch my partner present, but after that, Sayonara, suckas!"

"I actually planned on sneaking out of here myself to play video games. You're welcome to hang."

"And no math geeks will be present?"

"Nope."

"Sounds good to me!"

"What sounds good?" Maura asked.

"Um, the wonderful afternoon schedule sounds good," Jane replied.

Gail added, "As a matter of fact, Jane and I saw some presentations that are more fitting for cops. So maybe we should split up while you all go with your doctor friends."

"I'm glad you found something that interests you," Holly told Gail.

During Maura's presentation, Fin got a text.

Amanda: Any chance you're free for a zombie ass kickin?

Fin: Sure! Text me when you're here.

Once Maura finished and people were applauding, Fin excused himself. He figured Melinda would be busy moderating questions from the audience and chatting with colleagues afterwards. He went back to his hotel room to meet Amanda.

"I brought double chocolate cookies this time."

"Yes—you're the best!"

Fin noticed the private chat notification.

BlondieZombieKilla83: "What's up? Want to play another round? But to warn you, my buddy here is new to the game."

BigFinBigFlipper67: "My partner is back here with me, so it'll be an even match. Lol"

BlondieZombieKilla83: "We can play as a team. I'm just glad to get away from this boring af conference. I don't even care if we win."

BigFinBigFlipper67: "Oh yeah, I'm at a conference, too. I'm here to support my girlfriend. She's an ME."

BlondieZombieKilla83: "Wait…Whaaaaaaaaat? Which conference are you at? My girlfriend is an ME, too!"

BigFinBigFlipper67: "The one in NY."

BlondieZombieKilla83: "Dude! That's where we are! What's your room number?"

BigFinBigFlipper67: "Oh bet! We're in rm 646."

BlondieZombieKilla83: "See you soon."