When I got the text from Chasity, something came over me. I literally sat in my truck fighting with myself whether to go or not.

The longer one won out and here I am sitting next to Athena in the restaurant. Their laughter is something that is like music to my ears. I kept wanting to hear more of it.

Sure, my reaction to Athena's hair being cut let it be shown with how I am feeling. I truly enjoy seeing how they are with that part in what they do.

I always believed it is important to do what you enjoy. These ladies have that and it makes me happy.

If only I can figure this case out. Stop just one hour, that is what I need to give myself to relax and enjoy company.

Over the last four days, we have not got any closer on knowing anything. The only thing is we found out is it the exact same suspect from seven years ago. That alone is based off of the same burn phone that pings between different towers with the setup and the words being the same threats.

The talk was going great but then fell off some with Dason arriving. From what I can tell he is Bethany's long term boyfriend, that just hasn't popped the marriage question. What gets me is how Athena and Chasity seem to calm down a lot.

"What type of work do you do, Dason?" I ask, trying to get the conversation back going.

"Oh, I have two jobs."

Plain answer. Now the detective side of me is wanting to kick in.

"What do you do?" He looks at me and I notice the hard exterior but on the inside he is looking me over.

"I am a detective."

"That has to be hard. Bet you see a lot of things."

"That I do." I nod.

"It has to be hard having two jobs." I press.

"No kidding. Dason is not home much at all with how his hours are."

"I travel back and forth. One has me doing satellite work and desk job, then I work as a uber off to the side. Got to make sure my sweet plum here is well taken care of."

Athena snorts but coughs a moment later.

"I have said many times there isn't a need for two jobs. I make excellent money." Bethany whines some.

That explains Athena's reaction.

"I know, but I can't just sit around much either." Dason canters back.

Now this just got good. Our food arrives and there is more eating than there is chatting. It feels right sitting here next to Athena.

At one point I purposely move my leg and it brushes hers. Athena glances over to me with a small smile and it warms my heart.

There is a need to just touch her and feel her after seeing her scared. That is why I have been working so hard too just to help ease her and make her feel safe by solving this case.

I finish up my plate and look around the table. Chasity catches my eye, as she smirks looking between Athena and me. She is up to no good trying to play match maker. This time though, a part of me doesn't think it is a bad idea.

The only thing keeping me from it is how scared I have seen Athena. So I don't want to stress her out. Not to mention I am not sure what she would think of me either. We have touched a few times, but she seems to shy in that area.

The waitress comes by and starts collecting the dishes, until Athena waves her over. Athena whispers to the waitress and I can't hear what is being said. The one thing I hate, can't blame it on the detective side of me because I always hated surprises.

When the waitress leaves, Athena smiles.

"What are you up too?" I can't help but ask.

"You will see." Athena kind of sings out.

I just fell for her even more.

The check book gets brought over and straight in Athena's hands. She pulls our her wallet and is quick to throw the cash in.

"Keep the change as your tip."

"Thank you ma'am so much. I hope you all enjoy the rest of the night." The waitress smiles and walks off.

"Girlie, I was supposed to help with the bill." Bethany laughs.

"I got it tonight. My treat." Athena smiles and Chasity gets up to hug her.

We all stand and I notice Dason is watching Bethany closely, but I can't tell if his eyes are a wondering or not.

"It was nice meeting you." Dason steps over.

"You as well." I force a smile.

I watch as he and Bethany walk out of the restaurant. Leaving Chasity, Athena and myself.

Chasity takes ahold of Athena's arm and they walk outside together. I follow in behind them looking around.

"So what are you doing tonight?" Chasity looks back to me.

"Just going over work."

"Are you getting anywhere in the case?" Athena's voice comes out soft.

I rub my neck, not knowing how much to tell her and not worry her.

"We still really only know that it's texts have been through a burn phone. The suspect knows the cameras because nothing shows up from the window break or the last threat."

"What about the other?" Chasity looks at me.

"So, it is believed the seven year old cold case we had. It is the same suspect."

"Cold case?" Athena raises her eyebrow.

"Yeah, same numbers and wording matches from that cold case."

"This just got even more interesting. Here I thought my life would be quiet and boring." Athena huffs.

"I am sorry. There still doesn't seem to be a connection as to why you were targeted."

"As long as he can be caught. Guess it should be me. I mean I am not much at all, not even to look at."

My hands go to her shoulders faster than I can think, as I gently hold her.

"Don't say that, Athena. You are a very beautiful woman and from what small time of knowing you also sweet and kind."

The words spill out of my mouth, but I notice how she blushes and relaxing with my touch. I just couldn't stand the sound of her downgrading herself.

A/N---
Hey Hey Guys!!!

Sparks are flying and things being said between the two! The pull to each other is strong.

Zack seems to have issues turning off his detective side but that could be a good thing?

Thoughts on how the dinner finished?