Snippet #2654210

"Yeah, inside..." the detective said, smoothing a hand through his hair as he ascended into the foyer. As Casey retreated into the kitchen, Randin took the opportunity to center himself. He focused on the details of her home, marveling at the close-fitting luxury of it all. It was perfect for her; modest and humble, replete with opened windows, fresh sunlight and the company of growing, green plants. He spent a moment admiring the gorgeous view of the coast before his attention shifted to the architecture of a particularly well-made pillow fort. If there were eyes peering out from the mess of blankets and cushions, they might have seen the slight but warm smile spread over Randin's jaw. Of course Casey was fostering a child, especially one from such a troubled background. It was her nature - to fix broken things, to heal.

Casey came back into the room, tray in hand. With the shock of seeing her abating, Randin concentrated on the details. He marked the circumference she gave him, the effort she took to eliminate the possibility of even accidental contact. It didn't bother him nearly as much as what she said after sitting down. “Sorry he had to trick you into coming, Randin." Did she honestly think that he didn't want to be here?

"And I didn't trick him because I thought he would refuse to come, I did it because I wanted it to be a surprise, for both of you."

"Well we're certainly surprised, Jimmy," Randin nodded at his friend, unsure if he should be smiling or scowling. While he knew that McKenna was only trying to help, Randin would have appreciated some warning before being walked into the home of his ex-girlfriend. He approached the tray and took up the pot, pouring himself a mug of steaming joe which he lifted to his lips without sugar or cream.

"He's right though, Case," Randin's eyes lingered on the cup before flitting suddenly up to hers. "I would have come, had I known." His eyes softened for a moment, brows coming undone. He nearly told her the whole truth right there - that he had missed the ever-living hell out of her, that he was just happy to be looking at her again - but held back. Too much at once, Randin. Put the brakes on and talk to her like a normal human being. That's what people did after not seeing each other for a while, right?

"The Empire, though," he grinned, taking another sip, "not gonna lie, last place I would'a looked for you." He gave Jim a double-take. "Ministry of... what, 'public harmony' or something? Sounded important, whatever it was." Back to Casey. A nod, a soft smile. "You're doing good for yourself. Damn good."