Covert affairs all chapters one place!

NTS: Zeke
A/N:
Disclaimer:
TITLE
You wanted to see me? Auggie asked, sticking his head around the door.
Auggie! Joan exclaimed with a bit of surprise in her voice; there was a sound of shuffling papers and a
pen being clicked closed, Yes, she rose from her seat, Come in, have a seat, she gestured to one of
the chairs in front of her desk, despite the fact she knew he couldnt see her.
Auggies eyebrows rose as he moved around the door and entered the office, his laser cane swinging
back and forth as he approached the chairs, So its going to be one of those meetings is it? he joked,
reaching a hand out to find the back of the chair in front of him before sliding easily into the seat.
Joan smiled, That depends on what you mean by one of those meetings, she replied, moving around
the desk to take the seat next to him.
Auggie smirked and tilted his head in a quick movement, You know, those meetings where you know
Im not going to like what you have to say; one of those meetings.
Well Im not sure about how you will take what Im going to say, but before we get to that, Joan
shifted in her seat a little, causing Auggies eyebrows to furrow for a moment as he turned his unseeing
gaze to look in her direction, How is Annie doing? she asked finally, deciding there was no covert way
of asking the question shed been asking herself for the past three months since Annie had returned
from her six months of medical leave.
Now Auggie couldnt resist the small smile that reached his lips; he was one of few who knew firsthand
how much Joan Campbell cared about her people. He also knew how much she hated to show her
emotions in front of people who worked for her, so for her to ask him a question like this showed just
how concerned she was, Have you asked her? he asked before he gave his answer.
Joan gave a sigh and rose from her chair to pace over to the window, You think she would answer?
she asked, sounding resigned to the large crevice that had grown between herself and her best
operative, Ever since she returned from working for Lena, she silently applauded herself for the
normal tone in which she spoke the traitors name, she and I havent exactly been able to see eye to
eye.
Well that could have something to do with the fact that neither of you will stop to take the time to talk
to each other, Auggie replied, Just thought Id throw that out there.
As it was intended his offhanded comment made Joans lips twitch upwards. She gave a sigh, I want to
know if shes ready to return to the field, turning around she folded her arms as she faced the man she
had come to think of as a younger brother of sorts, I know if I ask her, her answer will be yes, Joan
resisted the urge to roll her eyes, any normal field operatives answer would be, but I need to know the
truth.
And you think I have all the answers? Auggie smiled.
Now it was Joans turn to raise an eyebrow in Auggies direction, Im not exactly blind to the
relationship you two have formed over the years, she stated sardonically, amusement clear in her
voice, If theres anyone who knows the answer to my question as well as or better than Annie herself
its you, Auggie.
Auggie blinked, unsure of how to respond to this blunt statement, he contemplated all sorts of retorts
before finally deciding to choose a CIA agents favorite solution to difficult questions, he ignored and
deflected, I think she is doing well all things considered, he briefly ran a hand over his face, memories
of that day months ago still haunting his mind, If we hadnt gotten there when we did he trailed off
and shook his head, And knowing that Lena is still alive, Auggie wasnt quite as good at masking the
distain in his voice when he said Lenas name, even if she is in CIA custody, well its not exactly helping
her sleep at night.
Joan nodded and took a few steps closer to Auggie, moving to rest her hip on the edge of her desk, I
know she was expecting to be returned to the field immediately upon her return to work, she nodded,
But I wasnt sure that was such a good idea
And I agree, Auggie interrupted with a nod, But I think Annie took you placing her on desk duty as
some sort of punishment.
But it wasnt, the urge to throw her hands up in frustration was nearly overwhelming, but Joan had
trained herself better than that, I just wanted to give her some time to adjust to working again before I
sent her back into the line of fire. You know as well as I that she is a magnet for trouble. Most operatives
go nearly their whole careers without seeing a single bullet, but in the three short years shes been here
shes more than seen her fair share of danger and espionage. I just wanted to give her a break from
that.
Never before had Auggies blank stare bother her as much as it did just then when it was directed
silently at her, And have you told her that? he eventually responded, repeating his earlier question,
Because from what I can tell, and forgive me if Im wrong and if Im overstepping, he smirked a little,
But you seem to be frustrated that she wont talk to you, when you are just as guilty of not
communicating as she is.
Youre right, Joan eventually agreed, with a frustrated sigh, But you do think shes ready to return to
the field? she clarified after a moment of contemplation.
Auggie smirked and gave a small snort of amusement, Physically she was ready to return three months
ago, mentally she was ready two months ago, now? he couldnt stop the shake of his head, Im sure
she is more than ready to return to active status.
Joan gave a short huff of breath before nodding once, Okay then, she stated moving around her desk
to shuffle a few things around as if she were searching for something.
Auggie remained where he was seated, silently listening to the noise Joan was making in confusion,
While this conversation wasnt exactly a walk in the park, it still wasnt bad enough for me to warrant
the chair, he vaguely gestured to where he sat, So what else is on your mind?
I received a call this morning, Joan muttered vaguely, her mind clearly focused on something else.
And? Auggie urged her on, after a few minutes of hurried scribbling sounds.
The scribbling continued for a few more seconds before it came to a stop and Joan looked up as she
placed her pen down on the paper shed been writing a quick note to herself on, And, she replied
more clearly, her attention returned to the man across from her, It seems your grandmother is turning
82 next week and someone wanted to make a point to have you there at her party.
Auggie, having leant forward in anxiousness to hear what it was Joan had to say, collapsed against the
back of the chair with a loud sigh of frustration, Really? Whos the person who pulled those strings? he
demanded, Has someone been calling my NOC phone to the point of annoying some higher up?
Auggie, Joan tried to interrupt but Auggie continued as if he hadnt heard her.
I thought agents were supposed to keep their personal and professional lives separate? he was really
getting worked up over this, and had she been anyone else Joan would have been surprised. But unlike
anyone else, Joan was actually privy to the buried emotions surrounding Auggies family, so she just
gave a silent sigh and sat back to let him rant, I mean, if I wanted to go I would have told you, but
clearly I didnt and I dont so Im not going.
Silence. Then, Are you done? Joan asked, watching the man frown and close his eyes as he tried to
calm himself down, And what about your high school reunion? she inquired, fully prepared for the
explosion this time.
Are you serious? he exclaimed, Do you have someone keeping tabs on me or something? he
demanded to know, rising from his seat angrily.
Joan raised an eyebrow, I dont, no, she answered, But someone else does, she held up a hand,
despite the lack of good it would do, and before you ask, no neither does Arthur.
Taking a deep breath Auggie turned around from where hed begun pacing to look in her direction, Do
you know who?
Who is following you? Joan asked in return, Or who is having you followed?
Auggies frown deepened, Pick one, he snapped.
Joan rose from her desk to move to sit on the front corner facing him, No I dont know who, if anyone,
is following you, but I am pretty sure I know who is having you followed.
The fact that Joan was unconcerned did nothing to ease his frustration and Auggie barely managed to
contain the frustrated growl that was rising in his throat, Well? he pressed, wanting to know.
Folding her arms and crossing one ankle over the other Joan felt her lips twitch, I once asked you what
made you want to be a spy, and you told me that you had once been convinced as a child that your
grandfather was a spy, she paused, Well, guess what Auggie.
Youre kidding, Auggie forcefully replied, his eyes squinting as he shook his head, even as he
contemplated the truth of what Joan was saying, He would have told me
Like you told your family? Joan retorted with a smirk, He said he was tired of waiting for you to figure
it out yourself, and that he wanted me to read you in so that you would come to your grandmothers
birthday party.
Auggie nodded sarcastically, Right, because nothing screams family bonding like finding out your
grandfather was a spy, he sighed, his anger slowly receding. He moved back towards the chair hed
been sitting in earlier, his hand felt around its back before he was able to find the seat and sit down.
After a few minutes he looked up to where he thought Joan was, ending up looking a few inches from
her shoulder, I dont suppose you know whether or not Nana was a spy too do you? he asked with a
half hearted smile.
Who do you think taught me everything I know? Joan decided it was best to take the bull by the horns
on that question.
The silence was heavy as Auggie tried to decide if she was joking or not, Are you serious? he finally
just asked her, I cant tell, he lifted a hand to wave it in front of his unseeing eyes as if too make a
point.
Joan shrugged and with a reminiscent smile, She retired three years after I joined, she was my mentor
and my handler. So yeah, Im serious.
Auggie took a deep breath and in an action reminiscent of his earlier movements he allowed himself to
slump back fully into the chair he was sitting in. Rubbing his hands over his face he shook his head, I
guess Im not really surprised, but how did my grandfather even know I worked for the Agency?
Scoffing Joan uncrossed her ankles and arms and moved to pat Auggie on the shoulder as she passed
him on her way to a small table by her door, He was an agent himself, he has connections. And I may or
may not have kept contact with Iyla and Christopher over the years, she admitted, So when I say I
need you to go to Iylas birthday celebration, I mean it, and not just for yourself, she turned around to
find Auggie had risen to his feet and was following her, But I need you to give this to her, she gently
thrust a small box into Auggies chest, causing his hand to automatically come up to catch whatever it
was shed given him, Consider yourself a messenger for me if you have to, she paused and narrowed
her eyes teasingly at him, But youre going.
Fingering the box in his hands Auggies expression became one of concentration as he tried to figure out
what it was, Is this a present? he asked incredulously.
Yes, from myself and Arthur, Joan answered, her voice indicating that shed moved back towards her
desk, I dont really care one way or another if you go to your high school reunion or not, he could
practically feel her pointed stare on his face, But you will be in Glencoe, Illinois come Saturday if I have
to tie you up and send you in a box myself.
Following her voice Auggie headed in the direction Joan now stood in, coming to a stop in front of her
and next to the window, Joan, he started, his voice quieter than it had been before, You know why I
cant go back.
Joan looked at him, noting the hurt he was trying to bury in his eyes, I know why you wont go back,
she acquiesced, But the only reason why you cant go back is because you wont let yourself.
Pride, Auggie sighed, running a hand through the hair on the side of his head, Its an Anderson
curse.
Reaching out and hand to grab his shoulder, Joan shook her head, Well I know for a fact that your
grandparents want you home, and your mother. What about that brother you read in?
Zeke calls, Auggie stated vaguely, remembering all the times Zeke had nearly begged for him to come
home.
And that little sister you used to never stop talking about? she didnt need to say it, but it had always
been clear to her that his two younger siblings were important to him, more so than any of his other
siblings.
Auggies head fell back as he felt himself wavering, hed avoided going home for nearly five years now.
He and his father didnt have the best of relationships, and his mother always did what his father told
her to, then his older brothers still found their game of Pick-On-Little-Auggie the most amusing game to
play despite the fact that he was no longer little, or able to see to defend himself for that matter. The
only appealing thing about heading home was the chance to get to see his younger siblings, Zeke and
Elizabeth, and his grandparents.
Fine, he groaned a few minutes later, Ill go, he turned to head back to the door, But I will blame
you if this all goes south, he pointed the gift in her direction.
Joan smiled, And your reunion? she asked as she moved to return to her seat behind her desk.
Auggie just shook his head, Im not even going to consider it, he insisted, his hand reaching for the
door handle, Ill see you around Joan, he smirked, Well, you know what I mean.
Oh and Auggie? Joan called just as he was about to leave the office, Maybe you could consider taking
Annie with you.
Auggie froze where he stood half turned in Joans direction, his gaze fixed on the door in front of him, Is
it that obvious? he sighed, bending his head forward to rest on the door and tilting his face to look in
Joans general direction.
Joan couldnt stop the smirk even if shed wanted to, Only to someone who knows you as well as I do.
Tell her its one last vacation before I return her to active field duty.
Well, Auggies head rose and bent to the side in a quick movement, At least theres that, turning one
last time he exited the office, pretending not to hear Joan calling out to tell him to consider the reunion
idea.
On autopilot Auggie stepped forward and down the few stairs to the bull pit, laser cane flitting back and
forth as he headed for his office. The sudden click clack of a familiar pair of shoes alerted him to the
return of Annie from a meeting he hadnt been invited to, Auggie! she called as the click-clacking sped
up until it reached his side and he felt arms wrap themselves around his arm.
Inhaling the scent of Jo Malone Grapefruit, Auggie didnt even bother tried to stop the smile from sliding
across his face, Annie, he returned, his voice less excited than hers had been.
So what was that all about? Annie asked as they entered the glass encased tech office, her voice
indicating her curiosity, causing his grin to widen. Annie was nothing if not predictable when it came to
mysteries.
Once shed released his arm he moved towards his chair, collapsing in a smooth movement that showed
the frequency with which the move was made. Placing his hands behind his head as he spun his chair to
face her where he knew she now rested against the edge of his desk, Well arent you a curious little
bee? he teased her.
Auggie, she replied in a tone that clearly indicated to him that she was rolling her eyes, Im rolling my
eyes, she informed him, and he smiled to himself at how well he knew her. Her knee reached out to
bump his and he didnt try and stop his own eyes from rolling at her antics.
I know, he told her, That was about a certain invitation that arrived about a month ago that I wasnt
going to RSVP to until Joan decided to make it an order.
There was a pause as Annie tried to figure out what he meant, What invitation? she finally settled on
asking, which considering all the questions he knew to be running through her mind was a considerably
lesser evil.
He sighed and lowered his arms, My grandmother is turning 80 next Saturday and my family, in typical
fashion has decided to throw her a birthday party in celebration.
Another long pause as Auggie waited for the question he knew would come next, And you dont want
to go? she finally asked, playing her part well.
That is quite possibly the understatement of the century, Auggie agreed with her statement, And
before you ask why, he stopped her next question before she could ask it, How about we just agree to
discuss it at a later time and place.
Annie paused before nodding, Okay, she said with a small sigh, Later then.
Auggie waited for a few moments for her to get up and leave, or to even try to continue their
conversation, but when the silence stretched on and he could still sense her sitting on the edge of his
desk, he turned to look up at her, Whats on your mind Walker? he asked with amusement.
A deep breath followed his question and then a long sigh, Okay, so apparently Danielle has been trying
to find someone to buy the house while theyve been living in California, and someone finally decided to
take a chance on them and their house, so she, Michael, her kids and my mother are in town for a few
days to show this new couple the house and sign the paperwork and whatever, the long pause that
followed Annies short spiel told Auggie she wasnt done.
And? he pressed, Do you have to move out again?
Annie sighed again, letting him know hed hit the nail on the head, Yes, but that isnt exactly whats
bothering me. I mean, yeah, I have to go find a new place, but I can just stay at my safehouse for a few
days until I find somewhere, so that isnt really all that big of a deal, and to be perfectly honest I never
really unpacked quite a few things, so moving really isnt the issue either.
Then what is? she had him truly confused now, and he couldnt help but be concerned about
whatever it was that had her rambling.
Danielle wants you to go out to dinner with our family tonight, Annie finally just blurted out in a rush,
I know its short notice, and you dont have to go if you dont want to, I mean I wouldnt be going if my
mother hadnt insisted, but it wont hurt my feelings if you decide that you dont want to go. I already
tried to convince Daniellebut she told our mother about you and now mom wants to meet you so they
both demanded that I invite you, so
Realizing Annie wasnt actually going to pause to breathe any time soon, Auggie decided to just speak
up, Sounds like fun, he interrupted, smirking when Annie continued rambling for a few more
sentences before she stumbled over her words as she comprehended what hed said, Wherere we
going?
Obviously hed shocked her into silence and it took her a moment to recover, Ah, she paused, The
park, it sounded like a question, Danielle wants to have a picnic in the park and then theres supposed
to be this carnival in town that they want to go toshe trailed off as she noticed the expression on his
face, You really want to go? she asked.
Auggie shrugged, Sure, why not? he replied, Im not exactly a huge fan of crowds, but if youll be
there to lead me around I think it could work, he grinned, When and where, Ill meet you there.
Well, I was thinking, if you decided to go, I could take you home, you could change into something
more comfortable, and then wed make a quick stop at my place so I can grab some new clothes and a
few other things, then wed meet Danielle and company at the part, Annie sounded a bit more sure of
herself now that she seemed to have found her footing in the conversation, Would that be alright with
you?
Turning to face his computer, he sent her a quick smile, Is what Im wearing not good enough? he
joked.
It is, Annie reached out to smooth some invisible wrinkle from his shoulder, But its not exactly
conductive to playing in a park, she grinned at him and straightened, So Ill swing by here after work
then?
Auggie nodded as he placed his headphones over his head, Sounds suspiciously like a plan Walker, he
laughed.
Oh har har, Annie scoffed as she moved towards the door, sliding out of Tech ops and heading
towards her desk and the never ending mountains of paperwork and research.
NTS: *Make him find out about it
A/N:
Disclaimer:
Chapter 2:
Annie let out a quiet sigh of relief when she noticed it was quitting time. It had been a long day of boring
paperwork and research to be done for agents who werent in Joans dog house; actually it had been a
long three months of boring paperwork and research to be done for agents who werent in Joans dog
house. Of course, she couldnt really say she blamed the older agent, the last few months had been full
of nothing but bad calls on her part. First she chose to listen to Lena over Joan, just because Lena was so
relaxed about the rules and regulations; shed allowed herself to join Lena in her relaxing of policies and
protocol that were meant to keep agents safe.
Then shed gone and gotten herself tangled up in Simon Fishers web. It had been nice, she thought at
the time, to have someone care about her the way Simon did. Shed had her heart broken too many
times over the last few years, first by Ben, then a little by Jai, even if nothing had really ever happened
between them, and then by Auggie. Her Auggie; best friend, Id-commit-treason-for-you Auggie. In his
defense he hadnt known that he was breaking her heart by choosing Parker over her; he probably
didnt even realize that there had been a silent one sided war being waged by her to keep him all to
herself. But his oblivious and unknowing rejection had unintentionally sent her spiraling.
Shed thought that at least she would have Jai, or Joan, or even her sister to still lean on a bit, not that
she was ever a big leaner, but still. But then Jai was killed, and Annie was transferred, and her sister had
to move for Michaels new job, and suddenly shed had nowhere to turn. When Lena had set her on
Simon, hed unintentionally become the new normal, the one thing she could rely on. Simon was bad, he
was probably always going to be bad, and he chose her, but he was just as likely to get bored of her in
an instant as decide he wanted a different flavor of ice cream the next time they went out. In the end
Simon had turned out not to be so bad, kind of, and she had been intrigued and even a little eager to
take his offer of running away together; but then Auggie had effortlessly managed to slip his way back
into her lifenot that shed ever tried to keep him outand she woke up and realized what was going
on.
She couldnt leave her sister, her nieces, her brother-in-law, her motherheck not even her fatherbut
most of all she couldnt leave Auggie. Despite the hurt hed unintentionally caused her, something she
was determined he would never find out about*, he was still her best friend, still the one she wanted to
talk about, still the only person she had ever met who could call her on her bluff and cut through the
crap to get to the heart of the matter in a manner of seconds; he was still the man she loved with every
piece of her heart, the man she would do anything for. So when he asked her to come in, that was what
she was going to do.
But then Lena had shown up and it had all been shot to hell, literally. Her dreams while at the hospital
were vague and blurry, and she didnt remember much of them. But there was one dream she
remembered, one about Auggie, a mission, and something about a dance. Well dance again Walker,
but not until the musics right, words that had been echoing through her mind since shed first heard
them, they were driving her crazy, what did they mean, was it just in her head?
When she woke up she found things with Auggie quickly returning to the way they once were. They
talked and shared everything, they laughed and joked, and even flirted a little; she hadnt really realized
the full extent of how much she missed him until she finally had him back. Now if only her professional
life could return to normal as quickly; if only she could return to active field duty, even if it was
something as small as a simple brush pass, Annie would be more than content.
When Danielle had called two nights ago to inform her of her surprising news that someone had made
an offer on the house Annie hadnt even known was for sale, she had to admit shed felt a momentary
flashback to a few months ago when her life was so up in the air she didnt know which way to turn. But
then Danielle, unaware of Annies inner turmoil had not-so-casually asked after how Auggie was doing,
and suddenly her world had righted itself, and shed found herself coming up with plans and back up
plans for how the next few months in her personal life would go as far as living arrangements went.
It wasnt much longer after that before Danielle let slip that she may have kinda-sorta told their mom
about Annies little crush on Auggie. So now, Danielle went on to say, their mom was insisting that they
invite Auggie to the next family outing they would all have together, which, as Danielle then went on to
inform her, was going to be tonight, at the neighborhood park, at seven, bring Auggie. The bring Auggie
part was essential, Danielle had informed her seriously. So Annie had found herself in the awkward
position of asking her best friend to meet her family. Technically hed already met Danielle, Chloe and
Katia, but now her mother wanted to meet him. In her mind that was like throwing him to the sharks
and expecting him to swim; every man for himself after all, especially where her mother was concerned.
Giving one last sigh as she decided not to put off the inevitable, Annie pushed back from her desk and
rose to her feet. She grabbed her purse and keys and switched off her monitor before turning and
heading determinedly towards Auggies office. She paused right outside the open sliding door and
watched him for a moment. Taking the rare moment to just take her friend in, watching as his eyes
watched his computer screen even though he couldnt see it, noticing how his hair was nearly in need of
a trim, watching his fingers trace over his Braille keyboard before they moved to type some more at
lightning fast speeds Annie could hardly comprehend.
You know, Ive been told its rude to stare, Auggies amused voice startled her from her thoughts, and
Annie looked at his face to see the smile she knew was there.
Her eyebrows furrowed a bit as she moved to enter the room, How did you know I was here? she
asked, she knew she asked the question a lot, but he never ceased to fascinate her with the way he
could always tell exactly who was where in the office.
Well you werent exactly quiet on your approach, Auggie informed her as he rose to his feet. His
shoulders were still hunched over as he bent to lock his computer, That and you still smell like your
perfume, he added with a smirk as he turned in her direction, Ready to go? he asked.
Arent I supposed to be the one asking that question? Annie retorted with a grin of her own as she
reached her hand out to bump his so he could locate her arm. Once his hand had located its familiar
position just above her elbow she turned and easily guided them both out of the office. They conversed
as they normally would as they took the elevator to the ground floor and then exited the building. Once
theyd reached her car she led him to the passengers seat before taking her own seat on the drivers
side, Last chance, she started, as she turned on the car and pulled out of her parking space.
Auggie shot her a confused look that soon morphed into one of amusement, If you dont want me to
meet your family Walker, just say so, he returned with a small chuckle as he felt her turn onto the
freeway.
Its not that, Annie was quick to disagree, Its just, well, last I checked you werent exactly fond of
third graders and
Choles not in third grade anymore, Auggie informed her, looking pleased with himself for this little bit
of knowledge.
Chancing a quick look in his direction Annie saw his expression and couldnt stop herself from giving him
a small grin as she shook her head, Okay, but shes still a little girl.
Auggie sent her a look she couldnt quite decipher in the split seconds she stole from looking at the
road, Are there going to be multitudes of little girls at this shindig? he asked her rhetorically, No?
Then everything will be fine. Its just escorting millions of overactive little school children that I have a
problem with, not a few kids. I actually like kids.
Really, the look she shot him was disbelieving.
He chuckled and his head turned to look out the window, Really, he replied, his grin widening a little at
the surprise and disbelief in her voice, I was actually really close with my two youngest siblings, they
are about nine years younger than I am, give or take a few months, but I was closer to them than any of
my older brothers who were closer to my age.
Slightly shocked that Auggie had offered up anything about his family, it took Annie a few seconds to
respond, I didnt know you had any younger siblings, she stated, attempting to sound nonchalant and
distracted as she pretended to focus on switching lanes and heading towards the exit that lead to
Auggies apartment.
I dont really like to talk about my family, Auggie admitted.
I couldnt tell, Annie muttered sarcastically with a grin, Its like pulling teeth to get personal
information out of you sometimes, she lightly shoved his shoulder as they waited for a red light to
change.
Auggies head swayed to look in her direction as he shrugged, My family iscomplicated, he sighed,
Zeke and Lizzy are the only ones I even talk to anymore.
Hesitating for a minute as she shifted gears Annie tried to figure out exactly what she was allowed to ask
about his family situation, You want to talk about it? she decided to just ask, figuring Auggie would tell
her if she was being too nosy.
Not right now, he responded as he exhaled deeply, But maybe some other time. I mean it would be
only fair right? You always tell me about your family drama after all, he grinned at her but she didnt
see it as she turned into the parking lot behind his apartment building.
Maybe a little too much, Annie admitted a little sheepish, Well, she put the emergency break on and
took her keys out of the ignition while unbuckling her buckle in one smooth move, Were here, she
stated unnecessarily.
Eyes squinting in amusement Auggie nodded a little, I can see that, he paused, Figuratively of
course.
Uh-huh, Annie replied with a roll of her eyes as she waited at the front of her car for him to meet her.
Once hed found his way to the front of the car she took a step towards him and wrapped her arms
around his free arm, leaving the other hand free to use his cane.
So what kind of dress code are we looking at here? Auggie asked a few minutes later as he set his keys
down on a small desk next to his door inside his apartment.
Already heading towards his kitchen area to grab a quick glass of water Annie paused, Casual? she
sounded a little unsure, Just whatever you would feel comfortable wearing to a park and carnival, she
added with a nod, sounding more certain that time.
Right, he dragged out, turning and heading for his room, unbuttoning his shirt as he did so, Thats
helpful.
A few minutes and a full glass of cold water later Auggie reappeared with his hands holding the corners
of his black leather bomber jacket out, Hows this? he asked, giving a quick spin with a smirk showing
off the dark green t-shirt and close fitting dark blue jeans.
There are only 10 kinds of people in the world, Annie read from the front of his shirt with an amused
expression, Those who understand binary and those who dont, she paused and gave him a humorous
look, A little techie humor Auggie? she teased.
Auggie gave her a look she wasnt sure she understood, Do you get it? he asked sounding as if he
wasnt sure he was ready to believe that she did.
Im sure theres a joke in there somewhere, Annie replied passively, Well, she placed her now empty
glass in the dishwasher where she knew he always placed his glasses, Are you ready to go? she pulled
her keys out of her purse in preparation to leave.
Auggie seemed to be looking for something in the living area however, leading to a halt in her
movements, Just a second, he called to her, finally reaching a closet in the far corner. Pulling open the
door he reached up to grab a box. Now curious Annie moved closer to see what he was getting, and was
surprised to see three different kite packages being pulled out of the box, followed by a Frisbee that
looked as if it lit up in the dark.
Auggie? she questioned, What are those?
Grabbing the three kites and the Frisbee Auggie turned to her with a smile, The last time I was at your
house Chloe and Katia were nearly in tears because Danielle wouldnt take them kite flying. I told them
how much I used to love flying kites when I was a kid, and they somehow mistook it as a sign that I
would take them kite flying. Unfortunately I had to tell them that I couldnt take them that day, but I did
tell them that one day I would. So, he lifted the kites, This is me making good on my promise.
And the Frisbee? she asked, reaching out to take the Frisbee from his hands to turn it over in her own,
sure enough, there were batteries on the bottom and lights all around the rim.
Auggie shrugged, his lips twitching in an attempt to keep from smiling, I was a bit of a Frisbee buff back
in high school, he admitted, It was something Zeke, Lizzy and I loved to do, and whenever we were out
playing it other kids in the neighborhood would come out to play with us. I guess Ive just always had a
Frisbee, but now, he waved a hand in front of his face, It would be a little hard to catch a Frisbee
coming my way dont you think? Might as well give it to some kids who might appreciate it.
Stunned once more by the man in front of her, all Annie could do was stare at him in silence for several
seconds before reaching out to hug him, Thank you Auggie, she murmured.
For what? he asked in confusion once shed pulled away, his hands trailing down her arms slowly the
further she went from him.
Annie tried to think of a word that would encompass everything she wanted to say, but ultimately she
ended up just saying, For being so amazing. The girls are going to love it.
Thats what Im going for, Auggie winked at her, Theyll never accept any other man you date after
tonight, he called over his shoulder as he headed towards the door. He waited there at the door for a
few seconds waiting to hear the sound of her coming after him, when they didnt come he grew a little
concerned hed crossed some sort of line with his last comment, Coming? he asked her, hopefully
startling her into action.
His plan worked and Annie rushed to catch up to him, Yeah, sorry, she sounded a little off, but he
couldnt pinpoint why, so he let it go.
On the ride over to her place Annie mulled over what Auggie had said about wanting to win her nieces
over, it was sweet and funny, but what did he mean? Did he want to be the only man her family
approved of? Did that mean he wanted her like she wanted him? Or was he just joking around like
usual?
Ultimately deciding the millions of questions were going to have to wait until later Annie forced them
out of her mind and started a conversation about something shed heard in the office earlier today. The
conversation made the rest of the ride go faster and she soon found them both standing outside her
apartment as she unlocked the door and slid it open, Um, make yourself at home, she commented as
she led him over to a small loveseat, Ill be right back.
Were on the clock Walker! she heard him call after her jokingly.
Yeah yeah, she replied, in a normal tone, not really caring if he heard her or not. Sliding of her suit
jacket she moved to hang it up, followed quickly by her light pink blouse and her work pants. Pulling
open the drawer that held her infrequently used jeans and shorts, she pulled out a pair of faded dark
blue capris and pulled them on before moving back to her closet to pull out a black slashed sleeve t-
shirt. Pulling the top on she moved towards the bathroom, pulling her hair up into a high ponytail as she
did so. Finally finding a hair band to wrap around her hair she pulled it tight and quickly fixed her
makeup. Grabbing a silver bracelet she slipped it on over her wrist before picking out a pair of silver
butterfly earrings with faux diamonds dangling from thin silver strands of different lengths.
Seven minutes after abandoning Auggie on her small couch she reappeared, still putting on her earrings,
Okay, ready to go? she asked breathlessly.
Ive been ready for awhile now, Auggie joked, Youre the one whos taking forever, he added as he
rose to his feet. Taking a deep breath through his nose he smiled a little at her, You smell good, he
informed her, Im sure the mosquitoes will love you for it.
Rolling her eyes, Annie grabbed her purse and keys, Ill be fine, she responded with a grin of her own,
Come on; were late.
Auggies eyebrows rose, Well thats not my fault, considering I didnt even know what time we were
supposed to be there in the first place, he gave her what he hoped was a pointed look.
Come on, Annie sighed, choosing to ignore his teasing in favor of rushing them to the car, though the
grin she always seemed to wear when Auggie was around never dimmed.






you look nice,
Thx, I wasnt sure what tohey!
His head swayed
NTS:
A/N:
Disclaimer:
Auggie! was the first thing they heard after theyd pulled into a shady parking space and exited the
car.
Brace yourself, Annie warned him as she saw her two nieces racing towards them.
Auggie listened and waited for the collision that he was sure was coming; soon enough two small forms
collided with his leg and side and arms wrapped around him, Hey there girls! he responded eagerly,
Long time no see!
Chloe pulled away from his side giggling, You cant see Auggie! she informed him with a laugh.
Youre silly, Katia agreed, reluctantly removing herself from his leg.
Annie smiled and gave a small laugh of her own, That he is, she agreed, moving forward and bumping
her hand against Auggies, letting him know where her arm was, Wheres your mom and Nona? she
asked though she could clearly already see them and the two men with them.
Over there, Katia pointed to a table a little ways away, Daddy and Pappy are there too, she
proclaimed excitedly before tugging on Chloes hand to pull her along behind her as she ran back to the
red and white checkered table.
Pappy? Auggie repeated, looking at Annie with a bit of accusation in his eyes, but a smirk still in place.
Annie shrugged, knowing he would feel the movement in her arm that he now held, Apparently my dad
is here too, she sounded as surprised as Auggie felt.
Your dad was in the Army right? he asked as they headed in the direction he assumed her family was
in.
Annie nodded, Yeah, a colonel, she added, sounding distracted.
Auggie remained quiet for a minute before asking the question on his mind, Are you okay?
Huh? she startled at his voice before translating them in her head into full words, Oh, yeah, Im fine.
Its just been a few years since I last saw my parents is all.
Now curious Auggie shot her a look, Something bad happen between the three of you? he asked,
wondering if maybe her home life was more similar to his own than he had originally thought.
No, Annie shot his ideas down, They just lived in California and I was too busy traveling and then
Agency stuff came up and we just kind of lost track of each other, she sounded saddened by this, I
email my mom every few weeks, but my dad and I havent kept in contact except for calls on birthdays
and holidays if Im in town.
Annie! Danielle exclaimed once they were closer, rising from her seat at the table to come give her a
hug, squeezing tightly, Oh I missed you!
Closing her eyes and trying not to imagine how difficult it was going to be living in Virginia without her
sister nearby now that she was officially not moving back, Annie hugged her back, I missed you to
Dani, she replied, Now can you let go? I feel like youre trying to suffocate me!
Oh! Im sorry, Danielle let go immediately, Hey Auggie, she turned to the man in question slyly,
Thank you for coming today. I hope were not keeping you from anything.
Not at all Danielle, Auggie disagreed with a smile sent in her general direction, It was going to be just
another long night of scrabble with a girl in Brazil and endless Mingus records.
Annie, dear, isnt Charles Mingus that instrumentalist you love so much? an unfamiliar voice spoke,
causing Auggies head to turn to look in the direction it came from.
Annie nodded once shed released her mother from another tight hug, before reaching out to place her
hand on Auggies back, Auggie this is my mother Sharise, Mom, this is myAuggie, this is Auggie.
Auggie sent her an amused grin before holding his hand out for Sharise to shake, Nice to meet you Mrs.
Walker, he stated, waiting until he felt the older womans hand in his before shaking her hand firmly,
Im Annies Auggie, he gave a short laugh as he felt Annie nudge him sharply in the side and his joke.
Please Auggie, call me Sharise, the woman smiled, though she seemed to feel a little awkward about
Auggies obvious blindness.
Hi Daddy, a soft voice that Auggie was unfamiliar with hearing Annie use sounded from his side
causing him to look at her in surprise. His gaze followed the sounds of her movement as she moved to
embrace the older man, Daddy this is Auggie. Auggie, my dad.
Again Auggie held his hand out, Nice to meet you Colonel, sir, he spoke formally, not really surprised
when the hand that gripped his held strong and tight, You have two amazing daughters, he added as if
extra flattery would do him any good.
I wish I could say Ive heard a lot about you, a deep voice answered his greeting, But Annie hardly
ever stays in contact with me, and not once has she mentioned her blind best friend.
Daddy! Annie admonished, moving quickly to stand next to Auggie and wrap her arms around his.
Auggie could practically feel the surprise radiating off of Danielle and Sharise so he figured this wasnt
normal behavior for Annies father, Im sorry to hear that sir, he replied, straightening his posture a
little to show he wasnt intimidated by the older mans show of bravado, I guess Ill just have to make
sure our Annie keeps in touch from now on wont I?
There was a pause where Auggie could almost literally feel the former colonels eyes search his face and
person for any hint of the man beneath before Annies dad spoke up again, If you manage that, son, I
think you and I will get along just fine.
Yes sir, Auggie agreed, nodding his head and smiling a little, I agree sir.
There was a small pause in the conversation as the colonel once again found himself studying Auggie,
Were you in the military son? he finally asked, noting the formality with which Auggie seemed to be
greeting him.
Yes sir, Auggie replied, Captain August Anderson, United States Army Special Forces.
Annie hid her smile as she noticed her fathers moderately impressed expression, Well isnt that
impressive, Sharise interrupted before her husband could interrogate Auggie anymore, Its nice to
meet you Auggie, and were so glad you could come spend some time with our family; arent we
James? her voice was pointed as she pinched the colonels arm.
Yes, James agreed with a quick glare at his wife, It is nice to meet you Captain.
Well Im starving, Danielle intercepted the increasingly tense situation, What about you Annie?
Annie didnt bother trying to hide her grin this time, I sure am. Its been forever since Ive had any of
your gourmet food, she exaggerated, tugging on Auggies arm to pull him closer to the table where she
guided his free hand to the table top so he could find his way to the seat, Need any help with
anything? she asked, studying the impressive layout of homemade hoagies, homemade pie, chips, a
fruit and a pasta salad, and a glass pitcher of lemonade.
We were just waiting for your ever-late self to arrive, Danielle declined sweetly, before turning to
where Chloe and Katia were playing on the grass not too far off, Girls, time to eat! she called, waving a
hand to summon them closer.
I get to sit by Auggie! Chloe declared, abruptly turning from her game with Katia to come running at
full speed towards the table.
Auggie grinned as he felt and heard the ten year old scramble into the seat on his left, Careful kiddo,
he commented, reaching out a hand to steady the young girls movements waiting until she was
balanced before removing his hand from her back.
Thanks Auggie, Chloe giggled.
Annie smiled to herself as she moved to sit on Auggies other side, Looks like someone has a crush,
she murmured close to Auggies ear so that only he could hear.
Auggie grinned back at her, Im flattered Annie, really, he joked.
Rolling her eyes, despite the fluttering in her chest, Annie moved away to retrieve the two plastic
wrapped hoagies Danielle was offering her. Salads were passed around and Annie subconsciously found
herself serving both herself and Auggie, quietly describing the location of the various foods on his plate.
Once everyone began to dig in Auggie lifted his sandwich to his mouth and took a bite. Surprise lit his
face as he recognized the familiar blend of flavors, Annie? he asked, unintentionally catching
everyones attention, Care to explain to me how this sandwich not only tastes similar to my favorite
sandwich, but better? he shot her what he hoped was an incredulous and amused look.
Well Danielle called, Annie started out sheepishly, She wanted to know what kind of sub you liked
best so I told her and well, she gestured to the sandwich in his hands, she made it.
I hope it tastes okay, Danielle interjected, I know its not the same as what Daves deli makes, but I
did my best to replicate it.
Auggie took another bite and chewed slowly savoring it, It tastes amazing Danielle, he told her with a
smile once hed swallowed, Thank you. Though I do believe I will never be able to have one of these
from Daves ever again without remembering your masterful reproduction.
Danielles face colored and Annie grinned at her knowingly, cooking was something Danielle always
derived a great amount of pleasure from, and compliments on her cooking were just about the best
thing in her mind. Though Annie did find it funny that no matter how often Danielle was complimented
on her gift she still became embarrassed.
Well Im glad you like it, Danielle replied, before taking an overly large bite of her own hoagie.
They ate in silence for a few moments before Sharise spoke up, So Annie, she started, Tell us what its
like working at the Smithsonian.
Danielle and Annie shared a quick look and James looked up from his study of the ingredients on the bag
of chips to watch his youngest daughter curiously, Well, Annie started off but was interrupted by
Danielle.
You should hear how Auggie describes it, the older sister stated with a nod as she lifted a carrot to her
lips, Annie is out protecting art, she lowered her voice a little as she imitated Auggies voice, art that
is under attack, she said seriously before taking a bite out of her carrot stick.
What? Annie sent her sister an incredulous look, where did that come from?
Auggie gave her a sheepish grin, I may have explained your job to be a little more exciting than you
normally let on, Auggie explained with a small shrug before going on to tell everyone at the table about
Annie being on the front lines in the war against art.
Annie stared silently at him as he spun his tale of a war shed never heard of and her part in fighting it. It
never ceased to amaze her just how easily Auggie managed to win people over, her nieces were
obviously in love with him, her sister adored him, Michael actually felt like he could hold an intelligent
conversation with him and from the look of things, her mother was just as enthralled with him as
Danielle was. The only one who seemed to be having a harder time accepting Auggie was her father who
seemed to be giving both her and Auggie suspicious glances between bites.
Once the food was all eaten and repacked Auggie nudged Annie who smiled at him and rose from her
seat with a wink at Katia who moved quickly to take Annies seat on the other side of Auggie. She
headed off to her car where she reached into the back seat and pulled out the three kites and Frisbee
Auggie had brought with him.
Upon nearing her family she heard Auggie begin to speak, So Chloe, Katia, do you remember the last
time we saw each other and I made you a promise?
The girls were quiet as they tried to think back, Oh yeah! Chloe exclaimed moving to sit on top of the
table to look at Auggie better, We wanted to go kite flying!
But you said no!Katia added sadly shaking her head and bending her head down.
But I did promise to take you some other time didnt I? Auggie encouraged them to remember the
rest of the story.
Katias face brightened, Oh Yeah! she echoed her sisters earlier exclamation.
Auggie felt Annie appear behind him, Well I thought Id make good on that promise tonight, does that
sound okay? he listened to their eager affirmatives, but was more interested in seeing if hed bothered
their parents with his offer.
That sounds great Auggie! Danielles answer dissipated his small concerns, causing him to grin.
Well then, he started, turning on the bench to face Annie, Aunt Annie here has three kites; a blue
one, a pink one and a black one. The black one is for me, he felt Annie press said kite into his hands,
and smiled his thanks, The blue one is for Princess Chloe and the pink one is for Kitty-Kat, he smiled to
his left where Katia sat. He listened silently with a smile as both girls gasped as Annie handed each of
them their kites, Now well probably need some help assembling the kites, but after that it should be
smooth sailing.
Thank you Auggie! both girls exclaimed at once, Katia moving towards his side to hug him tightly
around the neck before jerking back, Daddy will you help me with mine? she asked eagerly already
moving around the table to where her dad sat watching with a small grin at the smiles and expressions
on his daughters faces.
You betcha, Michael answered, reaching his hand to grab the blue case Chloe was handing him.
Pappy, you help me! Katia exclaimed, waving her kite at her grandfather in movements that nearly
swiped him across the face a few times.
Sure princess, James answered, giving Auggie another indiscernible look before he grabbed the small
case being thrust in his direction to help assemble the product.
Auggie shot Annie a joking expression, Annie will you help me? he asked innocently holding up his
own kite case.
Rolling her eyes and shaking her head at his antics Annie swiped the kite case from his hands and
opened it. A few minutes later she couldnt stop herself from laughing as she noticed that the kite was a
large black diamond with the batman insignia in yellow and grey in the middle, Really Auggie?
Batman? she teased him.
Why not? Auggie shrugged with a not-so-innocent grin, Bats are blind, he waved a hand in front of
his face, Im blind, and Batman is pretty awesome.
Annie stared at him silently for a minute, I was just going to say your nerdiness was showing, she told
him, But what you had to say was nice too, she patted him on the head patronizingly as she looked
over to see the kites her nieces had received had been fully assembled, Auggie, she gasped as she
noticed the kites werent just some cheap things that could be bought at the dollar store. They were
nearly identical with the exception of the colors, while Katias was a rainbow of pink and bright yellow
with a little blue and green, with similarly colored streamers, Chloes was blue, white and black with
purple streamers. They looked professional.
What? Auggie looked up at her, his voice worried, Do they not like them? he asked in concern.
Realizing shed worried him Annie shook her head and placed her and on his shoulder, No, they love
them, she quickly assured him, But those couldnt have been cheap! You shouldnt have bought such
expensive kites for such young girls, now she was the one who sounded worried, They might ruin
them!
Letting out a small breath hed been holding at her exclamation, Auggie relaxed once more, If they do
at least theyll have had fun; mostly I figured we could fly them today, and when they get home they
could hang them on their walls as a decoration; thats what my sister did with the one I bought her years
ago.
Oh Auggie, thats a brilliant plan! Danielle agreed, startling both of them as neither of them had
known she was listening, And they will go so great in their rooms too! How did you know what their
favorite colors were?
Auggie shrugged, I took a guess, he answered, Im glad I was right, he smiled and turned to where
he could hear the girls giggling and squealing to each other about their kites, Alright girls, you ready to
try these babies out? he asked as he rose from his seat, taping his cane on the ground once to make
sure it was locked in place.
Mines not a baby! Katia told him seriously, Her name is Princess Kat and her voice quieted as they
got further and further away.
Annie watched as they reached a clear space, silently wondering to herself how Auggie knew when to
stop, You like him, she heard her mother say teasingly, causing her to look over at the older woman.
You have no idea mom, Danielle agreed, Her voice changes when shes on the phone with him, she
talks about him all the time and she actually brings him around to meet our family, Danielle gave her a
pointed look after her last comment.
Annie looked back and forth between two of the most important women in her life and sighed, Yeah, I
like him, she decided it wasnt worth denying, she wasnt exactly trying to hide what she felt. She was
just lucky Auggie was blind and couldnt see the obvious expressions on her face every time she was
near him.
Danielle studied her sisters profile as she watched Auggie with the girls, He likes you too you know,
Danielle told her, One doesnt just agree to meet someone elses family without liking that someone
else first.
Of course he likes me, Annie hissed with a frown, Were best friends, but thats as far as it goes on his
part.
Danielle rolled her eyes, Then youre even more blind than he is, she stated placing a hand on her hip.
Danielle Rose! Sharise scolded, sounding scandalized, That was significantly inappropriate.
And yet very applicable, Danielle defended herself, If she cant see the way he looks at her she
Their discussion was cut short by a call from Auggie, Hey Walker! Get yourself over here! We need
some help! Annie gave her mother and sister one last look before she headed off towards where
Auggie was waving her closer, already giving her instructions on how to help Chloe.
Half an hour later the kites had lost their charm for the girls whod soon decided they wanted to have a
go at playing with the Frisbee. So Auggie helped Annie return the kites to their small containers as Chloe
and Katia dragged the other adults away from the table to toss the Frisbee around. They sat in silence
for awhile while Annie watched her family play with the Frisbee, but after a few minutes she gave a
contemplative Hmm, before she reached over, grabbed Auggies hand and pulled him towards the
action.
Annie what are you doing? Auggie asked, not at all disagreeable to having her hold his hand while they
walked, but curious as to where they were going. It sounded an awful lot like they were headed towards
the game of Frisbee, You realize Im blind right? he asked her rhetorically, I cant exactly play a game
with flying disks.
Annie rolled her eyes, You hardly ever let your blindness get in the way of you doing anything, she
scoffed at him, I think your Frisbee actually makes noise too, her voice trailed off distractedly as they
neared the game, Hey guys! she called, Can I see the Frisbee for a second?
A few seconds later Auggie heard a sound like Annie had caught the Frisbee, she fiddled with it for a
minute before an eerie sound started to come from where she stood, Whats that? Auggie asked,
tilting his head in order to hear better.
That is the sound of a UFO that the frisbee came with as a cool perk, like the lights, Annie informed
him with a grin, confusing him a little as her voice grew more distant as if there were more space
between them, Auggie at your eleven oclock, catch! she called, lightly tossing the Frisbee in his
direction, hoping the sound would help him better associate in his mind where the Frisbee was. To her
surprise and relief he actually managed to catch it.
Feeling the slight crash of the disk hitting his hands, Auggie looked down at the Frisbee as if he couldnt
believe he was holding it. Hed never thought hed be able to play Frisbee again, yet unintentionally hed
bought what was probably the one Frisbee in the store that had both lights and a cool sound. Annie?
he called, unsure.
At your twelve oclock, she called to him causing him to turn in her direction. He hesitated a second
before he turned the Frisbee in a familiar move and let it fly, seconds later he heard the sound of plastic
hitting flesh and Annie laughing, Nice throw Anderson! she exclaimed moving a bit before shouting
her position to him again, Your two oclock, catch!
He turned appropriately and listened as the Frisbee neared him, much higher than it had been last time.
He let his cane remain where it had fallen on the ground when hed moved to catch the last throw and
waited for another second before reaching up and snagging the Frisbee out of the air. A wide grin lit his
face as he realized what had just happened, You are a miracle worker Annie Walker, he told her
shaking his head.
I just dragged you out here, she told him, sounding much closer this time, You did the rest, try
Danielle at your one oclock about twelve feet away, she instructed, wanting to see if he could throw it
as well a second time.
Auggie nodded, Danielle! he called, waiting until he heard her answering Yeah? before he tossed the
Frisbee in her direction and grinning when the Frisbee reached her.
Nice throw Auggie! Danielle sounded both surprised and amazed.
Annie smiled and called everyone to where they were, explaining the new rules of the game. She
explained each positions number to Chloe and Katia, knowing the adults already understood how that
worked, and when she told them about how he needed to hear where they were, Chloe made the
comment that it was like playing Marco Polo. She silently opted to stay near enough to Auggie to be
able to catch any stray Frisbees to keep them from hitting him unexpectedly, and the game began.
An hour later they were all laughing and having an enjoyable time when Michael spoke up from where
he stood, Its about a quarter to eight, he informed them, If we want to make it to the carnival before
the girls bedtime we should start heading over there.
The girls groaned for a second before fully understanding what their father had just said and cheering, I
want to go on the horsy ride, Katia declared as she ran for the car they had come in.
I want to go on the swing ride! Chloe was just as excited as her sister, racing towards the car, unaware
of the adults following at a much slower pace, loaded down with a picnic basket and stuff from dinner.
Annie laughed at their tenacity and turned to her sister, Well meet you over there, she said, guiding
Auggie to her own car with a quick wave.
Once they were both situated in the car Auggie turned to her with an expression she rarely saw him
wear, Thank you Annie, he murmured, You dont know what it means to me to have been able to
play with your family like that, he gestured vaguely to somewhere outside the car as she pulled away
from the curb.
Unsure of how to aknowlege his gratitude Annie gave a small laugh, Well the nights not over yet
Batman, she commented, Youll be so tired of my family by the time were done youll never want to
see them again.
Auggie rolled his eyes, I love your family, he stated firmly, And that wasnt what I meant and you
know it, he paused and looked forward for a minute, Most people see that Im blind and figure that I
cant do anything they can,even I am sometimes guilty of thinking that, but youve never been like that.
You trust me to know my limits and you expect me to push them. So thank you.
Annie was quiet for a minute before nodding, I just follow your lead you know, she told him, When
we first met, I thought you seemed capable of doing anything, and not once since then have you proved
me wrong, she gave him a quick glance before looking back at the road and the multiplying pedestrians
in it, Id do anything for you, you know that right?
Yeah, Auggie nodded, looking at her slowly, Yeah, I know that. Id do the same.
Giving him a sarcastic grin Annie laughed, I know, suddenly she honked her horn, Seriously? You
nearly hit that kid douche bag! she exclaimed, at some other driver whod been pulling out into the
road, simultaneously cutting her off and nearly hitting a little boy about four years old.
Moment over Auggie grinned at her, Good thing you were here to honk your horn at him. I dont know
if he will be able to live with himself, he gave a fake grimace as she reached over to lightly whack his
arm in consternation.
They were both quiet as she found a parking spot and turned off the car. Exiting she moved around the
car and grabbed his arm, This way, she told him, leading him in the direction of the ticket booth.
There are a lot of people here, Auggie noted, sounding a little uncomfortable.
Suddenly concerned Annie turned to look up at his expression, If you dont want to stay we can head
home, she told him, I dont want you to be uncomfortable.
Ill be fine Annie, he smiled at her, Youll just have to stick a little closer is all.
Giving Auggie a curious look Annie forced her expression into a smile, Oh really? she lightly flirted,
moving her arm out of his grip to wrap her arm through his and linking the fingers of her free hand with
her other hand, Hows this?
Thats better, he commented easily, not looking at her.
Oh, theres Daddy! Annie gently nudged Auggie in the right direction before she noticed the slight
mischievous twinkle in his eyes, What? she asked with a small laugh.
Auggie shook his head, pausing a moment before shrugging, I just didnt know you were such a Daddys
girl, he teased her; You never really seemed like the kind of girl to call her father Daddy.
Whats that supposed to mean? Annie exclaimed, not really offended.
Nothing, Auggie tried to force his smile down to no avail.
Seeing that they were nearing her family Annie sighed, This isnt over buddy, she poked his side, and
was surprised when he jerked away from her slightly, Huh, she commented moving to poke him once
more and getting the same reaction, Thats good to know, she told him.
You tell anyone ImDanielle! he cut himself off as he smelt the perfume hed come to associate with
Annies older sister, Fancy meeting you here!
Danielle grinned at him, We were just about to go buy tickets, she told them.
Auggie reached into his back pocket and pulled out his wallet, he handed Danielle two fifties, My
treat, he told her.
What? No, I cant let you
Auggie raised his hand to stop Danielle from refusing, You just fed me one of the best meals Ive had
since I moved away from home years ago, for free, he smiled at her, The least I can do is pay for
tickets.
Auggie, Annie tried to dissuade but was stopped by her father.
Let the man pay, James stated, If he wants to pay, let him pay, he repeated once his girls had
stopped talking.
Everyone looked towards the stern looking man in surprise at his sudden input, But Daddy, Annie
started, but was stopped by his look, Fine, thank you Auggie, she murmured, reaching up and kissing
him on the cheek, You really dont have to do this, but if you really want to, thank you.
Danielle slowly reached out to take the money, looking as if he was about to snatch it away at any
second, and half hopeful that he would, Yes, thank you Auggie, she turned to her girls who had been
staring stary-eyed at the bright lights and commotion before them, Girls, what do you say?
Thank you Auggie! they exclaimed with wide grins, each giving him a hug.
Auggie smiled, No problem kiddies, he replied, Thank you sir, he turned to where hed last heard
James speak from, I wasnt sure if that was a battle I could win on my own.
James just nodded his head and watched as Danielle returned from the surprisingly short line with a
wrist band for each of them. Minutes later they were entering the park, Annie never leaving Auggies
side. They walked from booth to booth, listening to the various venders calling out their deals and
challenges to play their games. There was a short conversation where they decided on going on the
rides before seeing if any of the vendors actually had anything worthwhile to offer.
Lets go on the pony ride first! Katia demanded, pointing in the direction of the carousel.
But I want to go on the swing ride! Chloe whined, tugging on her dads hand.
Danielle shared a look with her sister, unsure of what to do, but before she could answer her daughters
Sharise spoke up, How about we go on the carousel first and then the swing ride? she said in a way
that made it sound like both girls were winning.
Chloe gave Katia a suspicious look, but eventually shrugged her shoulders, I get to ride the
hummingbird! she stated, sounding satisfied with the arrangement.
I want to ride a unicorn! Katia pointed at the carousel again and tugged her parents a little faster.
Once theyd reached the line Auggie smiled as Annie refused to let go of his arm to let him go join
Michael and James where they sat on a nearby bench to wait while the girls in their lives went on the
ride, What, you want to ride a pony too?
Yes, Annie murmured back, Well, I always have a difficult time choosing between a pony and the
white tiger. But most of the time carousels dont have white tigers, so I generally go withoh look! A
white tiger!
Auggie couldnt help the grin that arose when he heard the childlike glee in Annies voice as she spotted
her favorite animal on the carousel ride, And what are you expecting me to ride? he asked with a not-
so-subtle roll of his eyes, A bunny?
Well there is a jackrabbit nearby, Annie joked, squeezing his arm to let him know she was kidding,
Actually I was thinking the dragon next to the tiger was more your thing, she shrugged, But if youd
rather ride the bunny she trailed off.
Dragon it is, Auggie answered, predictably, You know me too well Annie Walker.
Annie shot him a look, Not well enough, she murmured to herself seriously before fixing on a grin as
she showed the bored looking teenager at the gate their wristbands, Come on, she tugged Auggie in
the direction of the tiger and dragon trying to get there before anyone else. She let out a low groan a
few seconds later when the tiger came into site with a little boy already sitting on top of it with a wide
gleeful grin, Well I guess I wont be riding that tiger, she sighed. Quickly looking around she caught
sight of a fantastical decorated zebra right next to the dragon she was going to have Auggie ride, moving
quickly and silently she pulled him in the direction of the horse and dragon.
Dragon at your six oclock, she told him, And I will be right here, riding the second best animal on this
ride.
Auggie felt behind him until he found the pole the dragon was attached to and the seat that was near it,
carefully he pulled himself into the seat, feeling slightly ridiculous as he did so, And what animal would
that be? he asked sarcastically, A zebra?
Annie blinked at him in surprise from where she sat comfortably in the saddle on the zebra, Okay, how
do you do it? she demanded as they waited for the rest of the kids to pick their seats, You have to tell
me your secret!
Confused for a second Auggie just gave her a blank look, but then he realized what had happened,
Really? Youre riding a zebra?
Now Annie felt less inclined to fluff his ego, Maybe, she stated childishly facing forward as the ride
began.
You think zebras are the second best animal on this ride?Auggie went on, now sounding legitimately
curious.
Annie sighed, I really like horses, she stated, as if that was applicable to the conversation.
Auggie raised his eyebrows at her, You realize zebras arent technically horses right? he asked her
jokingly.
I know that! Annie snapped back with a slight grin and an almost roll of her eyes, But they are close,
she paused, And I like the way they look.
So you like horses? Auggie wondered absently how he hadnt known this before.
Nodding silently Annie grinned at him before realizing what she done, Im nodding, she told him, her
grin turning sheepish, Yes, I really like horses, she gave a small wistful sigh, When I was younger and
still moving from Army base to army base with my dad I made a friend at school who owned a bunch of
horses. Once shed discovered my love of all things horse related she invited me to go riding with her all
the time, Annie was quiet for a moment as she reminisced, I miss riding, she finally commented, The
freedom and excitement of it all, she gave a self depreciating laugh, Sorry, I must sound crazy.
He shook his head, Not crazy at all, he tried to assure her, I understand what you mean though,
Annie looked at him curiously, but instead of clarifying what he meant, Auggie turned to her more
purposefully, What would be your dream horse? he asked then, surprising her.
Caught a little off guard Annie floundered as she tried to answer his question, Um, she stuttered,
Mallory, my friend, she quickly explained, she had a few American Quarter horses, so they have been
my favorite kind of horse for years. If I could own a horse, she paused thinking, Id want a black
American Quarter horse with white socks I think, she trailed off as she thought about the imaginary
horse she had pictured in her head.
Auggie felt the ride begin to slow and eventually come to a stop, but Annie didnt move, Annie? he
called as he slid of the dragon hed been riding, Annie, he repeated reaching out and nudging her
shoulder, The rides done.
Annie jolted back to reality abruptly at his words, Well thats embarrassing, she muttered to herself,
not intending Auggie to hear her, and not noticing the smile he gave at her words. She climbed off the
zebra and grabbed Auggies arm in the position theyd previously been in and escorted him off the ride.
Auggie! Chloe and Katia both yelled once theyd caught sight of them, Were going to go on the ferris
wheel now! Chloe declared with a bright excited look on her face.
Ferris Wheel! Katia agreed with a nod of her head that made her curls bounce.
Auggie looked down at where their voices were coming from, I thought we were going on the swing
ride next, he sounded appropriately confused.
Chloe pointed in the ride in question, Its down for maintenance, she sounded unsure what that
meant, Pappy said to ride the ferris wheel first.
A look of understanding crossed Auggies face and he nodded, I see, he used the pun unintentionally,
Well you girls have fun with that, I think Ill just wait here until you get back, he waved his cane around
until it found the bench James and Michael had previously occupied and he moved towards it.
Where are you going? Annie asked with a small laugh in her words as she tugged him back, The ferris
wheel is this way, she began to guide him in the right direction.
Annie, he protested quietly, trying to still their progression, but Annie kept walking, unaware of the
slight tone of pleading in his voice, Annie, he tried again, this time digging his heels in a bit more to
catch her attention.
Finally realizing he was trying to stop walking Annie turned to face him in confusion, Whats wrong?
she inquired worriedly as she notice the unease in his expression, Auggie?
Auggie hesitated to tell her what was running through his head, he tried to force the words out a few
times but couldnt quite bring himself to say them, Nothing, he sighed eventually, Sorry, its nothing.
Eying him suspiciously Annie searched his face for answers, though she already knew she wasnt going
to find any, Alright, she replied slowly, This way then, she tugged him in the direction her family was
headed, catching up to them just as they joined the long line waiting for their turn on the ride.
As they waited Annie noticed Auggie growing increasingly fidgety, his eyes wouldnt stay focused on one
area for any extended period of time and he kept shifting his weight from one foot to the next. Hed
sometimes reach up to grab her hands one his arm then let them go a second later, and eventually, just
as their turn to get on the ride came, she realized she could feel his pulse rapidly pounding away. He
startled when the seat hit the back of his legs and Annie could feel him take a deep shuddering breath as
the bar was locked into place over their laps.
His hands reached out and tightly clasped the bar as the ride began and Annie suddenly realized what
was wrong, Auggie, she admonished quietly with a sigh, Why didnt you tell me you were afraid of
heights?
It never came up, Auggie muttered, sitting stiffly as he felt them rise higher and higher.
Annie rolled her eyes, You were going to tell me earlier werent you? she frowned, Why didnt you?
His fingers flexed on the bar, Not exactly something a guy wants to admit, a fear of heightsnot
exactly manly.
A small laugh escaped her, And you chose now to care about your image? she shifted slightly in her
seat to see him better, causing the seat to rock a little.
I didnt used to hate heights, Auggie ground out, But since I lost my sight, he tilted his head a little,
Its a little hard to grab something to hold onto to stop your fall when you cant see anything.
A loud squeal came from another cart that sounded suspiciously like Chloe that was soon echoed by
Katia. Annie gave a small grin at their eagerness, Im sorry, I didnt even think about it, she shifted
again so she could lift her hand to press it against his shoulder.
Could you stop moving please? he took a deep shuddering breath, Its rocking the seat a little too
much.
Right, Annie froze in place, Sorry, she winced apologetically.
Auggie nodded quickly, but said nothing. When the silence stretched on he forced himself to speak, Say
something, talk, ramble, distract me, please, he asked, refusing to admit the slight pleading in his own
voice.
Annie blinked as she tried to think of something to say, Um, she thought, When did you first discover
this fear of heights?
A bit incredulous at her choice of topic Auggie turned his head in her direction, Really bad distraction
Walker, he informed her with a small roll of his eyes.
Sorry, she gave a heavy sigh as she tried to think of something else to say.
My grandparents have a beach front property in Glencoe, Auggie forced himself to say, But the house
is a few yards above the beach so they have some steep stairs with several landings along the way. Just
after I returned from Iraq I went to visit my family and when I was walking down those stairs with my
sister I nearly walked straight off one of the landings. It would have been quite a drop if Lizzy hadnt
been there to help steady me. Naturally after that my grandparents put railings on all the landings, but
ever since Ive realized that heights and being blind dont exactly mix.
Annie studied his profile carefully as he told his story, noting the expressions in his eyes as he
remembered the spike in adrenaline that came with nearly falling, and the gratitude his sister had been
there to catch him before he hurt himself. A breeze came and tousled his hair causing some of it to be
misplaced and without much thought Annie reached up to comb it back into place with her fingers.
Much to her surprise she noticed Auggies eyes roll shut and his shoulders relax a bit as her fingers
combed through his hair.
Hmm, Auggie sighed, Nice distraction, his head slightly swayed as her fingers experimentally slid
through his hair once more.
A wide grin spread across Annies face as she comprehended what was happening; Auggie had a
weakness after all. From the look of his now nearly entirely relaxed posture it seemed her fingers
brushing through his brown hair was something that greatly distracted him. She slowly twisted in her
seat until she was practically facing him before she moved her hand to the back of his head to run her
fingers through the hair there, a soft smile turning her lips as she watched his expression of
contentment in that moment.
Auggie sighed again, silently deciding that maybe ferris wheels werent all bad, as long as he had Annie
by his side doing just what she was doing. He felt her turn to face him better and her hand slid softly into
the hair on the back of his head, gently tugging and twisting the strands between her fingers. The
fingers that had once held the bar in front of them in a death grip loosened and he felt his muscles relax
in response to her administrations. He knew someday he was going to regret letting her know how
sensitive his scalp was, but right now he couldnt even begin to fathom why he should care.
Eventually he became aware that her head had moved quite a bit closer, and his own head turned in
response, Annie? he whispered, wondering if maybe she was feeling the same thing he was at that
moment.
Just when he was sure they were about to kiss a loud scoff came from above them, Oh come on!
Theres children present! and a bunch of popcorn rained down on them.
Annie jerked back in surprise as she felt the popped corn landing in her hair and down her shirt, she
stared down at the kernels lying in her lap and let out a surprised laugh. Auggie did the same seconds
later, and what could have been a potentially awkward moment was lightened by the actions of the
teenagers above them.
Dude! a different guy next to the first whod dropped the popcorn, What is your problem? the
sound of flesh meeting flesh as one boy whacked the other was heard, They could be some crazy super
assasins or something for all you know!
You watch too many spy movies Ethan, the first boy scoffed.
Or spies! Ethan continued insistently, Im so sorry! he called down to them, switching tactics,
Conner just doesnt understand how normal people live and what they find socially acceptable.
Dude you make me sound like an alien or something! Conner whacked Ethan, sounding very insulted.
Or something! Ethan mocked.
Annie smiled up at them, Dont worry about it! she replied, with a wave and a quick shake of her head
that sent several kernels flying.
Auggie let out a chuckle as a few of the kernels hit him and fell down onto the poor unsuspecting riders
below him. This was definitely turning out to be one of the better experiences with heights hed had
since hed lost his sight. Not only was he covered in popcorn, but it came as a result of a near kiss
between him and Annie. At least now he had a little bit of an idea of how she might feel for him. Soon
enough he felt Annie reaching over to swipe some popcorn from his shirt and hair, giggling to herself all
the while.
He felt her shift to face forward once more and tried to dig out the calm that had been present just a
few moments ago, rather than panic and grab the bar in the death grip hed previously held it in. A few
seconds later, whether because shed sensed his returning unease or because she just wanted to be
close to him, he felt her wrap her arms around his and place her head on his shoulder.
Minutes later they began their final decent and Annie lifted her head to look at him, Well were finally
getting off this death trap, she joked, Sorry for making you get on in the first place.
They both rose from their seats and walked away from the platform to exit the ride. They reached a
short distance away and stopped, turning to wait for the rest of their party, Dont worry about it, he
assured her, It wasnt all that bad, he winked at her knowingly and she smiled back, resisiting the urge
to bury her face in his shoulder.
Aunt Annie! Auggie! the excited squeals of Chloe and Katia alerted them to the audience that drew
increasingly closer, Did you see how high we went? Katia sounded astonished, We were waaaay up
there! she jumped with her hands extended to the sky for emphasis, And then we came back down,
her hands shifted a little lower, And then back up again! she twirled around with a smile.
Katia, Chloe scolded, They were on the ride with us silly, she shook her head at her sister, But the
swing ride is fixed so now we can go on that one!
I get to ride with Auggie this time! Katia agreed rushing forward to grab onto Auggies leg possessively.
Annie giggled at the increasingly apparent crush-like fascination her nieces seemed to have on her best
friend, Actually sweetie, Annie released Auggies arm for a second to bend down to meet Katias eyes,
Auggie is going to sit this ride out with Pappy and Daddy okay?
Katia looked at her silently for a minute before staring up at Auggie with her famous puppy-dog look,
But why? she whined, tugging on his jeans a little.
Katia! Danielle moved forward to pull her youngest daughter from Auggies leg but she was stopped
by Auggie loosening the girls hands himself and bending down to be eye level with her.
He let out a small sigh as he tried to decide what to do, Ill go on the ride with you Kitty Kat, he told
her, But, he put a quick stop to the almost squeals that Katia let out, I have to warn you, Im not
much fun on rides that go really high.
Are you scared? Katia asked seriously, looking concerned for her new favorite friend.
Auggie hesitated for a moment, not entirely sure what the repercussions of telling a little girl he was
scared to go on a ride would be, but then he decided he had to lie to them enough about other things,
he could at least be honest about this, Yes, he replied just as seriously, Since I cant see, going up high
makes me nervous, he admitted.
Katia stared at him silently for a minute before she took her hands from where they currently resided in
his much larger hands and reached out to grab her sister, Then you should ride with Chloe, she told
him with all the seriousness and kindness an eight year old could muster, She makes everything less
scary for me.
Annie looked over at her sister to see Danielle watching the girls with her hands pressed to her mouth
and eyes that were suspiciously watery. There had once been a time, and still was, when Danielle had
been the one of them to help Annie overcome her fears.
Auggie placed a hand on Chloes shoulder as he rose to stand up once more, Okay then, he pasted on
a smile that only seemed forced to those who knew him as well as Annie did, What do you say Princess
Chloe? You up to helping me face my fears?
Chloe watched him carefully for a second before nodding slowly, Uh-huh, she sounded so serious that
Auggie couldnt help but give her shoulder a squeeze and grinning at her with a wink, The ride is this
way, she pointed but turned slowly, carefully making sure Auggies hand stayed on her shoulder.
The adults watched for a moment as Chloe led the way for Auggie while Katia danced around in front of
them, trying to look like she was just dancing crazy while walking backwards, but really she was trying to
subtly move people out of Auggies way, Youve raised some pretty great kids Dani, James
commented, wrapping his arm around Danielle shoulders and propelling her after Auggie and his two
granddaughters, And that man of yours is an interesting specimen, Annie Bananaie.
Daddy, Annie whined, sounding suspiciously like her younger self, I thought you said you wouldnt
call me that anymore! Im not five anymore.
James shot her a smile only a father could give his daughter, I have never said any such thing! he
proclaimed, seeming to lighten up for the first time that evening, Come on girls, or Auggie will be all by
himself with two little girls and a ride that hes terrified of.
Pappy! Pappy! Katia called as the adults joined them near the line for the ride, Will you ride with me
Pappy? she pleaded, grabbing James hand and tugging a little, Pleeeeaaaassssseeee?
James looked at Annie with a roll of his eyes, She gets it from you you know, he told her, following
Katia as she dragged him closer to the line, This way Captain, he called to Auggie as he passed him and
Chloe.
Danielle watched them reach the line before she grabbed Annies hand, Come on Annie, she
exclaimed, pulling her towards the line as well, You coming Mom? Michael?
Sharise shook her head, Nah, I need to use the little girls room, she decided waving them on, Ill be
here with Michael when youre done, she smiled at them with a wink; Go, have your sister bonding
time.
Shrugging Danielle tugged more insistently on Annies hand as she dragged them over to stand in line
several people behind Auggie, James, and the girls, So, Auggies great, Danielle stated knowingly, And
the two of you seem closer than ever before.
Not so loud! Annie looked sharply over Danielles shoulder to where Auggie and her father stood,
Auggie has the ears of a bat, she hissed.
Danielle rolled her eyes, Oh come on, I saw that almost kiss on the ferris wheel, her eyes were wide
and bright, He works with you right? He knows what you do? Is it against the rules to date other people
from the ASmithsonian?
Annie sighed, You know Im not supposed to talk about that kind of stuff, she told her sister quietly.
But your denial says it all, Danielle stated knowingly, Have you two gone out yet?
Resigning herself to the conversation Annie forced down a small sigh and shook her head, Im not even
entirely sure he likes me that way. I mean yeah, sometimes theres this look on his face, but
Look? What look? Danielles face lit up.
But Auggie never got to hear what look it was he got on his face as at that exact moment Chloe,
unaware of the importance of the conversation going on behind him, proceeded to drag him forward,
alerting him a millisecond before his foot ran into the first step that there were three stairs to get to the
platform. The colonel smirked knowingly to himself as Katia pulled him along behind them; hed known
what Auggie was listening to, hed been listening too, but he hadnt been a surprised by the motion
towards the ride as Auggie had been.
Chloe guided Auggie to the first swing she could find that held two people and held it steady and lifted
the bar while he sat down on it. She told him to lift the bar for her so she could sit next to him before
she clambered into the seat next to him excitedly. She sat there expectantly waiting for the ride to start,
watching as a teenage boy walked around from swing to swing for some reason, silly since they were
clearly already taken.
A few minutes later the teenager stopped in front of them, Sir, you need to buckle yourselves in, he
sounded bored.
Auggie looked up at him in surprise, Right, he replied, reaching a hand down and fishing around for
some sort of buckle.
The teenager watched him stupidly for a long while, ignoring the fact that Chloe had discovered the
chain beneath her seat and was struggling to click it into place, Whats the deal man? the teenager
grumbled.
Chloe stopped what she was doing and glared at the boy, Hes blind, she stated reaching her foot out
to connect it solidly with his shin, Jerk!
Chloe!
The girl in question sighed, of course her mother would be walking by at just that moment, He was
being rude! Chloe pointed to the boy in front of her as he bent over to rub his shin and glare at her,
Wimp, she pulled a face at him, Theres a chain underneath the seat, it goes between your legs and
somehow connects to a little loop on the bar in front of us, she informed Auggie, deciding to ignore the
boy as rudely as she could.
Trying desperately to hide his grin, Auggie bent forward to try and find the chain when his hand
connected with someone elses, Here, Annies familiar voice murmured, as she lifted the chain and
properly clicked it into place as Danielle did the same for Chloe.
Why thank you! he grinned up at where he hoped Annie was standing.
Annie grinned back, No problem, she replied before lowering her voice, You sure you want to go on
this ride? Theres still time to back out.
Auggie shook his head with a look of determination on his face, No, I said I would go, so I will.
Giving a small frustrated and sympathetic sigh Annie reached forward and smoothed some hair down,
hiding her grin when Auggies eyes slid shut at her motion, Okay then, Ill see you when its over, she
took a few steps away, deciding to take the swing just in front of them, Try and have some fun Auggie!
she called back to him, giggling a bit when the ride began, lifting them a few feet into the air.
Auggie took a deep breath, trying to find the calm hed had just a few seconds ago when Annie was
standing just in front of him. The sudden motion of the swing startled him and one hand automatically
reached for the chain nearest him holding them up while the other moved towards the bar in front of
them. Before his hand could reach it though he felt a small hand slip into his, Its okay Auggie, Chloe
giggled before lifting her hands, and his, into the air.
A little stunned at the change of position it took Auggie a few seconds to realize what was happening.
Slowly a grin spread across his face and he felt himself begin to relax as the ride began to speed up.
Chloe let out another giggle and shriek as the ride spun faster and faster, Yeah! she exclaimed.
A few swings away Auggie could hear Katia yelling, sounding a little unsure but excited all the same. Up
in front of him he heard the familiar sound of Annies laugh as they spun around and he couldnt help
himself from giving a small chuckle at the happy energy that seemed to be surrounding him. For a
minute he completely forgot about his fear of heights as he closed his eyes and just tried to enjoy the
wind and cool air that sped past him.
Soon enough the ride began to slow and lower and Auggie found himself opening his eyes in surprise.
Once they were completely still Auggie felt Chloe remove her hand from his and lean forward as she
struggled with the clip that held her in place. Slowly he felt his way across the bar until he reached the
clip that was loudly jangling around, feeling it carefully for a second he found the clasp and released it
moving his hands back to his own to do the same before lifting the bar for both of them to exit the seat.
Thank you Chloe, he knelt a little to meet the girls gaze, That was a lot more fun than I thought it
would be and I owe it all to you, he squeezed her shoulders and winked before rising to his full height
as he heard the unmistakable sound of Annie Walker approaching, Come to see if I survived Walker?
he turned his unseeing gaze in the direction of the footsteps hed heard.
There was silence and then Danielles astonished voice answered him instead, You were right Annie!
she sounded surprised, That is a little unnerving! How did you know it was her Auggie?
A little confused, but smiling anyway, Auggie looked in Danielle direction, Lucky guess, he stated,
jerking a little as Chloe grabbed his hand and turned to lead him off the ride.
Annie scoffed, It might have been a lucky guess if he didnt do it all the time.
I can hear your eyes rolling Walker, Auggie responded with a roll of his own eyes.
You could hear a cat breathe in Africa, Annie retorted, Doesnt mean youre right.
Auggie gave Danielle a knowing look, She rolled her eyes didnt she, he stated.
Danielle hesitated a moment, looking between her sister and her familys new found friend, The fact
that you know that is even more weird. In a good way! she hurried to add, holding a hand up as if to
stop him from getting the wrong idea, I meant that in the best possible way!
Auggie grinned at her, I knew what you meant, he assured her, stopping when Chloe did, assuming
theyd found their way back to Sharise and Michael.
Out of nowhere a small form collided with Auggies leg at high speed, Auggie! Auggie! Did you have
fun? Katia exclaimed loudly, sounding hopeful.
I did, Auggie nodded, You were right, your sister is very calming, he grinned mischievously, She
must get it from her aunt.
Sharise smiled at the affect Auggie had on her granddaughters, So, whats next girls? she asked,
deciding to try and save the poor man from the constant attention of the excited girls.
As the girls looked around at the chaos surrounding them, Annie moved towards Auggie and reached
her arms out to wrap them around his, How about the face painting booth? she suggested, pointing in
the direction of the booth in question, Dani and I used to love getting our faces painted.
Chloe and Katia immediately looked up pleadingly at their mother, Please mom? Chloe asked.
Please? Katia echoed.
Danielle pretended to think about it, Well, she dragged out, Okay, lets do it! she sounded excited
herself.
How about you girls go along and I and the men of this group will hang out here? James interrupted
the excitement for a second, trying to save himself, Michael and Auggie.
Michael looked between James and Auggie, and deciding that he really didnt want to be stuck in that
awkward conversation he stepped forward, Ill go with you girls, he smiled down at his daughters,
wrapping an arm around Chloes shoulders and following Danielle towards the booth.
Annie hesitated, realizing she would be leaving Auggie with her father whod seemed less than inviting
to her friend, Auggie? she asked quietly, unsure.
Lifting the arm wrapped in hers he smiled a relaxed smile at her, Go on, he urged her just as quietly,
knowing what was running through her mind, Ill be fine.
With one last unsure glance at her father Annie nodded and headed after the other girls and Michael,
leaving Auggie and James alone for the first time that night. Auggie turned in the direction the colonels
voice had come from, And then there were two, he hoped he sounded less awkward then he felt.
James studied the younger mans expression before turning and spotting a wooden bench a little out of
the way, Theres a bench a little ways away, do you want to go sit? he asked.
Auggie shrugged, Sure, he hesitated, Um, where exactly? his eyebrows furrowed, finding himself
feeling one of those less and less frequent moments when he resented his blindness. Hating appearing
so weak in front of the man who probably meant the most to Annie, he silently cursed the man whod
caused his blindness once more.
Moving forward James lifted Auggies hand to hold his arm, waiting for a second for Auggie to move his
hand to just above James elbow, This way, he took a step in the direction of the bench. Soon enough
the two men were seated comfortably on the bench. They sat in an almost awkward silence for a
moment before James cleared his throat and shifted.
Sir, no offence, Auggie started, But if you have something to ask, please just ask.
James turned a little in his seat to study Auggies profile seriously for a minute before deciding to do as
he asked and just voice the questions on his mind, Howd you lose your sight? he asked bluntly.
Licking his lower lip with a small smile at the frankness of the question Auggie shrugged, I was on a
mission in Iraq, he answered, An IED went off, and so did the lights up here, he pointed to his eyes.
And the rest of your unit? James questioned.
Dead, Auggie responded with equal frankness, I was the only one to survive, and it was true, as far
as he was concerned Nasir had died along with them, the terrorist he turned out to be wasnt the friend
Auggie had known.
James was quiet for a minute before he spoke again, Its a hard thing, losing your people, I lost all but
one of my men on a stint in Afghanistan, he paused, I have to say I really admire your ability to
continue living your life despite the curveball it threw you.
Auggie furrowed his brow a little, Thank you sir, he accepted the compliment for what it was, Annie
mentioned once that you were retired? he hoped the almost question was enough to open a more
comfortable conversation.
I retired about three years ago. Sharise and I had always wanted to live in California, so when the
opportunity presented itself we decided to move there, James shrugged, Tried to convince the girls to
move out there too so we could all be closer, but Annie has always had a mind of her own, and Danielle
has never been able to tell her no.
Auggie grinned leaning forward a little, She is quite a headstrong woman, he agreed, Lots of people
have a hard time telling her no.
Im guessing thats one reason the CIA accepted her into their ranks, James commented as if he were
speaking about the weather, Add that to her independent nature, self confidence, and language
capability and she probably seemed like the ideal candidate for the Farm.
Quickly schooling his features into a blank expression hed perfected during his time as an undercover
operative Auggie tried to relax the muscles in his back knowing they would give him away if he wasnt
careful, Sir? he tried to sound incredulously confused.
Dont worry, I get that you cant admit to anything, but Ive been around the block enough times to
know a cover story when I hear one, and that story you just spun about Annies job, while a well crafted
story, James allowed, was just that, a cover story. So dont insult me by trying to deny it.
Auggie starred off in the direction Annie had taken off to, suddenly wishing for the first time that he was
telepathic and could somehow call her back here to handle her fathers accusations and theories, Sir,
he tried to speak again but James stopped him.
Do you care about my daughter? James asked almost rhetorically, sitting back in his seat and
stretching an arm across the back of the bench with a slight twitch to his lips, Of course you do, he
answered for Auggie before he could get the chance, And while for some reason you two arent
together yet, Im almost completely certain that it will happen. Whether tonight or years from now you
two will find your way to one another, and as long as you promise youll protect her, you and I will get
along fine.
Auggie straightened and turned to the man sitting next to him, Did you just give me your permission to
date your daughter? he didnt have to try to sound incredulous this time.
James smiled at the surprise on the blind mans face, You can date her, marry her, or even knock her
up, he paused, Preferably in that order, he commented thoughtfully with a slight tilt to his head,
And you wont see much in the way of disappointment from me on the condition that you keep her
safe and happy.
Ill always protect her, Auggie was firm in his resolve, I will always do anything I can to keep her safe
and even happy.
James studied the man before him for a long time before nodding to himself, reaching out a hand he
slapped the younger man on the shoulder, Then you and I should get along just fine, he grip tightened
for a moment, But for the record, if you do hurt her, there wont be a place you can hideCIA agent or
notwhere I will not be able to find you.
Auggie blinked at the abrupt change of pace to the conversation, but before he could say anything to
reassure the colonel Annies voice interrupted them, Are you behaving Daddy? she demanded
suspiciously.
Automatically Auggie rose to his feet once he heard her voice, Annie, he grinned, We were just
talking, he moved a little closer to the agent and whispered, And you and I will be having a talk a little
later.
So you were getting along? Annie sounded as if she didnt believe him for a second.
Auggie shrugged, The Colonel isnt too bad once you get him to open up.
And what did you two buddies talk about may I ask? Annie glared suspiciously at her dad who just
gave her an innocent look.
Auggie lifted his arm in an invitation for her to take it, and she did, Apparently your dad has always
wanted to live in California, and now he does; and he wishes you would come and join them on the west
coast, though personally Im glad I get to keep you here on the east coast with me. And then we talked
about work and you.
Annie frowned, looking over Auggies shoulder at her dad who was following them as they walked,
Me? she asked.
Yep, you, Auggie nodded.
Her lips twisting into a pout, Annie glared playfully up at Auggie, And thats all Im getting isnt it? she
sighed.
Yep, Auggie squeezed her arm closer to his side, Im sure you can handle it Walker, he joked.
Annie freed one of her hands and poked him in the side where shed earlier discovered him to be
ticklish, Then you owe me a stuffed animal.
What? he was confused, he could hardly ride the rides, how did she expect him to win any games?
The girls are still getting their faces done, so you are going to play this game, she came to a stop in
front of booth, All you have to do is break a plate with a ball, she smiled up at him, And I know you
have a pretty good arm.
Sighing, already knowing he was going to give in Auggie shook his head, Alright, but for the record, I
think this is a bad idea
But Annie wasnt listening anymore, shed stepped up to the man at the booth and was about to pay
him before Auggie reached her and stopped her, Here, he handed the man enough money for three
rounds, Now for every plate I break I get a prize? he clarified.
Yeah, the man sounded dubious, but who was he to turn down a customer? Round one will begin
once youre ready, he told them.
Auggie nodded and moved to where the balls rested in a basket. His fingers trailed lightly over them and
he felt a familiar sense of competition come over him, Ready, he told the man as he picked up the first
ball. A few seconds later the round was over and hed managed to chip one plate. He shook out his arm
and rolled his shoulders before reaching for the balls again, Alright, ready, he called this time prepared
for the motion and patterns he now knew the plates to make, sure enough by the end of round two hed
managed to break three plates, Ive got one more round right? he asked, even though he knew he did.
Yeah, the man now sounded more dazed than doubtful and Auggie couldnt say as though he blamed
him; the game was clearly rigged so that very few people if any could break one plate let alone three.
Deciding to go easy on the man this time he only broke two plates in the next round. Annie was giggling
softly to herself at the astonished look on the booth workers face as James helped Auggie instruct the
man on which animals he wanted. A few minutes later Auggie turned around and reached a hand out to
Annie, extending a white tiger with bright blue eyes.
A wide grin spread across Annies lips as she retrieved the gift he offered her, Thank you! she
attempted to sound surprised that he would think to get something for her (even if it was her idea), but
she didnt succeed if the roll of her fathers eyes was anything to go by, I love him!
Are you going to name him? James asked helpfully, looking expectantly at her, Shes named every
single stuffed animal shes owned since she was three, James told Auggie seriously with a teasing wink
in her direction.
Annie studied the tiger as they walked towards the others, loaded down with stuffed animals, I think Ill
call him Elokuu, she stated finally as they reached the booth where both Chloe and Katia were just
finishing up.
Auggie snorted, Really? he laughed.
James looked between them curiously, Whats funny about that? Besides the way it sounds.
Its my name in Finnish, Auggie chuckled, seeming pleased that she had chosen to name the tiger after
him.
Annie looked up at him in surprise, I didnt know you speak Finnish, she commented.
I dont, Auggie squeezed her arm affectionately, I just figured out how to say my name in every
language I could by the time I was twelve. Finnish just happens to be one of the few that doesnt just
add an O to the end of August.
Any further comment from either of them was cut off by the now familiar sound of Chloe and Katia
calling Auggies name, I got a butterfly painted on my face! Chloe declared, Its blue and purple and
just like the kite you bought me!
I got a flower and twirly spiral thingys! Katia told him, In pink and silver and sparkles!
Chloe grinned up at Auggie, And mom got a fairy mask and Nona got a bunch of stars and a rainbow!
And what did Auntie Annie get? Auggie asked, honestly curious.
Rainbow butterfly wings! Katia exclaimed with a giggle.
What are those? Chloe asked curiously, her attention shifting as she pointed to the stuffed animals
Auggie and James carried.
Auggie turned to James, Well this blue monkey, he held still while Annie reached out to pull the blue
monkey from his arms instead of James Is for princess Chloe, he smiled as Chloe squealed and
snatched the monkey out of Annies hands before shed even managed to fully take the monkey from
Auggie, And the pink monkey is for Kitty Kat, he waited for Katia to snatch the monkey away, and sure
enough a few seconds later his hand was empty and Katia was squealing into the stomach of her
monkey to muffle the sound, though it didnt do much good.
Auggie then turned to James who had the remaining stuffed animals, The green frog is for Danielle, to
his surprise Danielle let out a small eep! As she reached out to grab the frog with a small crown, And
the stuffed giraffe is for Sharise.
Sharise reached for her giraffe and pressed a quick kiss to James lips, Ew! Katia moaned as she saw
this, Thats gross Nona! she declared.
Danielle rolled her eyes, Okay you guys, how about we pick on more ride to go on, but then its time to
head home for bed.
The girls moaned but decided something was better than nothing. They argued for a few minutes about
which ride to go on, but ultimately they decided to go on the kiddie rollercoaster a few yards away.
Annie reached out and retrieved the stuffed monkeys from the two girls before they managed to trot off
to the ride, leaving the adults, with the exception of Michael and Danielle who followed them, behind.
Come on Auggie, Annie propelled Auggie forward, despite the increase in stuffed animals they were
carrying, I saw a target shooting game over here that I wanted to try, they have a prize I really want to
win.
Auggie rolled his eyes as he followed Annies lead towards whatever booth it was she saw, still aware of
her parents following not far behind, You know the game is probably rigged right? he told her, The
guns sights wont be right, or the target will be indestructible, something will make the game
unbeatable.
And that is why it will be so awesome when I win anyway, Annie told him with a grin and a bump of
her hip against his. Eventually they came to a stop and Auggie moved to pay for the game, but Annie
grabbed his wrist before he could, So help me Auggie, if you try and pay for this game too, you will
never hear the end of it.
Auggie shook his head, but allowed her to pay for herself anyway, Whatever you say Walker, he
sighed in fake exasperation.
Keep that in mind will you? Annie commanded as she sauntered away towards the couple that ran the
booth. She paid them for a round, lifted the gun in her hands and shot at the moving targets in front of
her. Like it had with Auggie the first round was all about figuring out just where the rigging lay, when she
paid for a second round she was still figuring out the bugs, but on her third round she won big time.
James couldnt help his small sense of awe and pride as he noticed how good Annie was with the gun, as
rigged as it may have been. The third round she hit nearly every target, landing her the opportunity to
choose any stuffed animal she wanted. She thought about it for only a millisecond before she pointed to
the one she wanted, ignoring the astonishment on the couples faces and accepted the prize with a grin.
Here Auggie, she said, removing the two monkeys he held, This is for you, she shoved the stuffed
animal in his arms, Her name is Annabelle.
Auggie felt the soft fur on the animal, trying to figure out what it was, And does Annabelle have a
species? he asked, finally giving in and asking the question he was unable to answer.
Yes she does, Annie nodded with a large smile, Shes a St. Bernard!
There was a short pause where Auggie just blinked at her before a wide grin lit his face and he let out a
laugh, Its about time you got me that souvenir Walker, he joked, pulling Annie in for a hug, I love
her, he murmured into Annies hair.
Well thats good, Annie told him, Because I hope to see her resting proudly on your bed the next time
I come over.
Auggie nudged her as they led her parents back towards the area theyd told Michael and Danielle
theyd meet them at, Im not so sure that would be a hit with all the ladies, he teased her.
James moved forward towards Auggies free side, It would be with the one that matters, he muttered
knowingly to the younger man before pulling his wife ahead of them, leaving Auggie staring vacantly
after them as the colonels words sunk in.
They eventually reached the meeting place and a few minutes and a deep conversation about art
acquisitions laterduring which James kept giving Annie amused looksMichael and Danielle returned.
From the looks of things the girls had thoroughly worn themselves out as Katia was curled up tightly in
Michaels arms and Chloe was stumbling along just behind Danielle, their hands clasped tightly.
Here you go, Annie reached out and handed Chloe her monkey back, before handing Danielle the frog
shed set down to go help Michael with the kids. She moved towards Katia, and noticing that she was
mostly already asleep she wrapped the monkeys arms loosely around Katias neck and pressed the two
Velcro strips on each hand together, leaving the monkey hanging from her back.
Thank you so much for coming with us Auggie, Danielle said once theyd reached the point where
theyd have to go their separate ways to reach their cars, I know it meant a lot to the girls. And thank
you for all the gifts, the kites and the stuffed animals, and the tickets to get in, she hesitated a second,
You really shouldnt have done all of that, but thank you anyway.
Auggie smiled at her, It wasnt a problem, he shrugged, Thank you for inviting me to spend time with
your amazing family, and Im sorry I didnt get to spend more time with them before you all have to
move to California.
Danielle nodded her thanks at his compliment, Um, she started giving a quick glance at Annie before
deciding to go on with her original thought, We were all going to go out to breakfast tomorrow if you
wanted to come, she sounded sincere in her desire for him to be there, Im sure the girls would love a
chance to say goodbye before we leave, and it would be a chance to hang out one last time.
Auggie gave Annie a questioning look and she squeezed his arm, Well be there, she told her sister,
releasing Auggies arm to move to give Danielle a big hug, Im going to miss you so much, she stated
sadly.
Hey, were not gone yet, Danielle scolded, pulling back from the hug, Well still see you tomorrow,
she told them as she and Michael began leading Chloe away.
See you tomorrow! Annie agreed.
Sharise turned to face them once shed waved to Danielle, Well it was nice meeting you Auggie, she
said, surprising both Annie and Auggie when she reached out and pulled Auggie into a hug, Well see
you tomorrow!
James shook Auggies hand and gave Annie a hug, Take care of my girl Captain, he ordered with a grin
that Auggie couldnt see.
Yes sir, Auggie replied, pulling Annie just a little bit closer to him.
With that they all turned and headed towards their respective cars and headed home.
Disclaimer:
A/N:
TITLE
Well that wasinteresting, Annie murmured some time later as she escorted Auggie to his apartment.
Auggie shrugged, It was fun, he found the correct key and opened his loft-like door, Do you want to
come in for a few minutes? he asked, deciding now was as good a time as any to talk to her about his
meeting with Joan.
Already inside his apartment Annie gave a small smile to herself, Sure, she answered, And maybe it
was fun up until the moment I dragged you onto that steel death trap, she winced, Sorry about that by
the way.
Its fine, Auggie said with a roll of his eyes, Sorry for wimping out on you, he moved to sit on his
couch and reach out for the remote to his stereo system. Seconds later the apartment was filled with
the sounds of Charles Mingus.
Annie shook her head, Dont be, I completely understand what you meant, I should have thought it
through, she sat down next to him, and having kicked off her shoes by the door where her shoes always
went when she was over, she curled her feet up underneath her comfortably.
Thats the thing, Auggie sighed, a little frustrated, You always expect me to push my limits, he
turned his head to look in her direction, You never treat me like Im handicapped an incapable of taking
care of myself, or playing games like Frisbee, or playing carnival games or riding carnival rides. I
appreciate the fact that you do that.
But? Annie pressed once hed gone silent.
Auggie shook his head and grinned a little, There is no but, he chuckled, Im not upset that you didnt
think about how heights would affect me, in fact Im glad you didnt, that means you see me just like
everyone else.
Annies hand found his, You are just like everyone else.
He nodded, Except I cant see, he raised a hand to keep her from saying anything else, But all of this
is besides the point; the point is, he nodded his head along with his words, I am glad you invited me to
go out with your family. So thank you, I had fun.
Deciding to follow Auggies example and change the subject Annie shrugged, Im glad you could come,
she went quiet and they both trailed off into their own thoughts, the soothing sounds of Mingus flowing
over them both. A few minutes of companionable silence later Annie sighed, So are you ever going to
tell me whatever it is that is bothering you?
Auggie gave an amused sigh, I must be worse at hiding what Im thinking than I used to be, he shook
his head, reaching a hand up to scratch behind one ear, Over there on the side table theres an
envelope, he nodded in the direction of the door where a small glass and metal table rested with a
small bowl for his keys, and a stack of envelopes.
Um, theres a few envelopes over here Auggie, Annie told him once shed reached the table.
Its in the metal tray and its a smaller envelope, he directed her, waiting until he heard her find it,
That is just one of the things that has been bothering me today.
Annie fingered the opening of the letter curiously as she walked back to the couch to sit down facing
him, Do you want me to read it? she asked, unsure if that was his plan or not. When Auggie nodded
she gave the envelope one last curious glance before opening it and tugging the thicker cardstock
invitation out of the envelope.
Read it outloud, Auggie sighed, not really wanting to hear what the letter said again, but wanting to
know what she was seeing when she saw it, and hopefully hear some inflection in her voice that would
tell him what she was thinking.
Pulling out a royal purple card with raised gold lettering Annie briefly let her eyes take in the cards
heading, Raybird High School Class of 98, she read out loud, Its been fifteen years! she added some
fake excitement to her voice to try and get Auggie to smile; it worked a little, You are invited to Raybird
Highs class of 98s fifteenth reunion. When: Friday, June 16, 20 Annie looked up at him, Thats the
day after tomorrow, she accused.
Auggie nodded wearily, Go on, he urged her rather than answer her unspoken question of why he
hadnt said something sooner.
6:00 to midnight, Annie raised her eyebrows, Seems like a long time, she




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