Shane

Shane visited Markayla at the hospital during the few days that they kept her. A counselor came to see her but she simply smiled and insisted that she would be fine. Shane was quick to offer to help with anything she needed, including prepping her house to put on the market. “Where are you going to stay in the meantime?” he asked her. “Will you stay in town or will you go back to New Mexico?” Markayla shrugged. “I haven't thought much about it yet. I suppose the only thing I can do at this point is to just go home and try to develop a new life there.” Shane cleared his throat and then he hesitantly began to speak. “Of course, it has to be up to you, but would it be asking too much if I asked you to stay with me for a little while? Like maybe until the house sells?” Markayla smiled. “Are you sure you wouldn't mind having me around? I seem to have caused you enough trouble as it is.” He knew she was referring to him having to shoot her would-be killer, but that was part of the job. That's what he did. He arrested most killers and he shot the few that needed to be shot. It wasn't exactly something he was proud of, but he had no problem with doing what needed to be done to save the lives of innocent people. “It’s no problem, ma’am. I would say you're definitely worth it.” Markayla smiled again. “I just don't want to push you to do anything you might not feel comfortable doing, especially so soon after all the drama you've been through.” “I appreciate that, and I'm flattered that you’d like me to stay with you.” Shane smiled shyly and said, “Well, you can take your time and let me know.” “What's to let you know?” Markayla asked. “Well, when you decide, I mean,” Shane blushed. “There's nothing to decide. I can't promise anything as I certainly don’t know what the future may hold, but I would love to stay with you.” Shane smiled, showing his well-maintained teeth. “Great. Great then. I guess I can pick you up when they release you tomorrow morning?” Markayla laughed. “That would be a great idea, Agent Casseri. It would definitely be better than taking a cab, though I could ask a neighbor or a friend if I had to, now that my whereabouts no longer has to be a secret. But yes, I would prefer it if my driver were you. So after I have one more of the shittiest breakfasts I've ever had in my life, I'll be good to go.” “Skip the shitty breakfast,” Shane said with a wave of his hand. “We can either stop on the way to my place, or I can fix something when we get there. Which would you prefer?” Markayla looked into his sparkling, bright eyes. “Surprise me.”