>>5857358>>5857390>>5857392>>5857406>>5857426>>5857453You consider saying something about SIM, but bite your tongue. It would be too risky, not only for you since Banks involvement could reveal your progress to SIM but also a risk to Banks. If things were to go poorly his fears of a ruined career would be the best possible outcome.
"When you find something, let me know if you need help. I have your back."
He smiles and stands up, letting the paper float down to his bed. You both clasp hands and shake firmly.
"Thanks, Mark. Really, I don't have a ton of friends in the department so it's nice to know I have someone other than Kimble looking out for me."
"Anytime, Banks."
"The same goes to you, if anything comes up just let me know and I'll be there."
You swallow.
"I'll do that." You lie.
-----
Heading out of the hospital you get to your car. Banks and you shared some more small talk but ultimately his PT had worn him out, you figured it best to let the man get his rest. Approaching your car you get a buzz on your phone. A text from Hawthorne.
"Your friends agree?"
"Yes." You reply, tapping out a quick message. You sigh and stuff your phone in your pocket. You take a deep breath and climb behind the wheel after checking your rear seats, a new habit acquired by working with Question, you start up the car and make the drive. You wonder what it'll be like, having Question and Hawthorne meet, you wonder if Huntress will even come. Only one way to find out. Pulling up to pizza palace, your usual haunt for clandestine meetings for some reason, you decide to park a block down and walk the rest of the way. You're not playing any games any longer with precautions, you keep your mind sharp and listen to every rustle and twitch of shivers. As you round the corner you see a familiar trench coat and hat.
"Officer." Question says quietly as you approach, he sits cross legged on top of a dumpster. His hands resting on his grease stained slacks.
"Question, digging in the garbage again?" You ask gesturing to his pants.
"Not here I haven't, I've uncovered everything I could here. I wouldn't order my pizza with sausage if I were you."
Before you can ask why the clicking of thick boots grabs both of your attention. Hawthorne rounds the corner in a black jacket, jeans, and skull cap. Hard to be inconspicuous at his size but you appreciate the effort.
"Rook." He says giving you a nod. He looks to Question and scowls.
Question stares back, his blank face leaving his thoughts a mystery. You can't lie you feel a little excited to finally see him truly.
"Where's the woman?" Hawthorne asks
"Which one?" Question challenges, his voice calm but with an undertone of mocking ignorance.
"The murdering one." Hawthorne growls back.
Question hops from the dumpster to his feet.
"You should be careful."
"Take your own advice."
