Mark was sitting in his office, his leg shaking with nervous anticipation. His eyes were locked onto his phone, waiting for Brian to call. Mark finally relented and called him the next day after talking with Barry and had agreed, begrudgingly, to work with them on this. He had to hold back the snark at Brian's over enthusiastic response. He told Mark to give them three days to mobilize a team and plan of attack. It was the evening of the third day and Mark was not so patiently awaiting for Brians call. Never thought hed be wanting the man to call him.

The phone lit up and Mark answered before the first ring had even finished.

Whats happening?

Do you have any manners?

Brian.

Log onto the network. Were going to be infiltrating St. Germaine hospital in the next ten minutes. Ill get you up to speed.

Mark logged in and was re directed to another site. His laptop had multiple video feeds, one taking up most of the screen along with six smaller ones bordering it. Mark clicked through each one, all on stand by. His desktop had four more feeds, presumably security feeds of the buildings entrances and exits along with a secure line directly to Brian in OPs. He hung up his phone and put on his headphones as Brian continued.

We have six operatives going in. Three as a distraction while the other three will infiltrate, gather information, then evacuate.

The feeds sprang to life, each video a different operatives camera. In the corner of each video feed was an image of the agent along with name, title and classification; H or V. There were six vampires and one human.

What is the distraction?

Colbert and Hill are going to bring Sigurdson into the hospital with a knife wound. While the staff treat him, Colbert and Hill are going to create a commotion in the waiting area; Ive left it up to them to decide on the show-

Its going to be my best performance. Mark heard a man's voice through his headphones along with another mans laughter.

Meanwhile, Brian continued, The other three, Manchez, Weiss and Harrell, will sneak in through different points of entry while the staff and security are occupied.

So make sure you guys put up a believable performance. I want this to be quick and easy. A woman's voice spoke up.

Dont worry Harrell, quick and easy is what I do best.

And even then.

Alright everyone. Were go in two.

Mark watched the feeds. He clicked on Sigurdsons, expanding it and watched as one of the men - Colbert - approached him with a knife.

Woah, whats he doing with the knife?

Brian spoke to Mark in a patient tone. We need the injury to be believable in order to give the others enough time to gather what information they can. This wouldnt last more than a few minutes otherwise.

Are you crazy? Youre just going to stab one of your men? And why arent you stabbing a vamp? At least they will heal from it relatively soon and won't do any permanent damage.

Again, if anyone on the medical team is part of Esmas group they will likely call it all out before they even get a chance to cauterize the wound. Mark began to protest again but Brian cut him off. Mark, Sigurdson volunteered for this, knowing full well what was going to happen. Its not like we are going to stab the man in the chest. It will be serious but not fatal if treated quickly. This is a top priority mission and we need to keep the risks to a minimum.

Mark was ready to retort again when another voice spoke up. I appreciate the concern, Mr. Fischbach, but I am on board with the mission. We need to know what Esmas plans are.

Mark wanted to argue this but he knew there was no point and there was a bigger issue at hand. This plan was crazy but he didnt exactly have any authority here. Okay, Im sorry. Carry on.

Thank you for your permission. Mark was glad the line to Brian was only audio. Alright agents, you have your objectives. Proceed.

Mark winced as Sigurdson was stabbed in his lower abdomen, around where the appendix was located. He grabbed at his stomach, Colbert and Hill immediately supporting him. They asked if he was good before putting his arms around either man's shoulders and they made their way to the entrance.

Wont they see the surveillance equipment when they take him into emergency?

The cameras they have are in the form of contact lenses and the communicators are ear buds half the size of your pinky nail. They have a self destruct of sorts built in, that, when remotely activated, will dissolve both pieces and are absorbed into the body.

That sounds safe.

If its being used, safety isnt much of a concern anymore.

You guys have made quite the.. advancements in the years.

More than you know.

Mark watched as they burst into the doors, yelling for help. The staff rushed in asking what happened and taking Sigurdson into emergency while the other two stayed back answering there questions. Hill and Colbert started arguing, both blaming the other for the accident. They escalated it, started pushing and shoving. Hill went as far as to throw a chair at Colbert.

Someone has some pent up rage. Mark was a little surprised at the amount of aggression coming from Hill, but it was certainly doing the job. Security had come in to separate the two men.

Youve never wanted to throw a chair across a room before? Alright, Manchez, you guys are good to go. Youve only got a few minutes.

Mark watched as the other three infiltrated the building. Mark was chewing on his lip to the point where it had started to bleed. There was a lot riding on this. Colbert and Hill continued to keep the guards and staff occupied as the other three made their way through the building. Manchez and Weiss scoured the building, looking for anything out of the ordinary while Harrell made her way into an office and onto a computer.

Mark opened up Weisss camera as the agent was standing in front of a door that looked to be under tight lock and key. I found an area that wasnt on the blueprints of the building and its locked down tight. Facial rec and fingerprint locks.

Im in the morgue and its completely empty. That was Manchez. Shouldn't there be at least some bodies here? It looks like it hasnt been touched in awhile.

I think I know why. Harrell grabbed everyone's attention. The hospital, its being used to collect test subject. When someones is brought in with fatal or near fatal wounds, they fake their death and then transport them for testing.

Colbert, Hill, get Sigurdson out of there now. Machez ordered. Mark pulled up Sigurdsons screen immediately. He was still in emergency, nurses and doctors huddled around him working on his wound.

Stand down. Brian ordered them. We can't jeopardize this Manchez. If we try to extract him, it will blow our cover.

We cant just leave him! Theyll use him for there damn experiments whatever it may be. Weiss sounded astounded, and Mark couldnt blame him.

Seriously Brian, this is too far. Mark spoke up in agreeance. They got the information. Sigurdson didnt need to be left behind, subjected to whatever the hell they were doing.

The mission takes precedence. We can not allow Esma to know we are on to her.

Sir-

Rosemarie.

Everyone paused at Sigurdsons voice. It was quiet, obviously trying to avoid being heard by the staff.

What? What does that mean? Mark asked.

Matt, come on. Manchez pleaded.

Rosemarie. He repeated.

You heard him. Brians voice was firm. Finish with the files then get out. Colbert, Hill, time to go.

Mark watched as they all systematically made there way out of the building. He kept Sigurdsons camera on screen, watching as a nurse approached him with a syringe in hand, and inserting it into his IV. He slowly lost consciousness, and then the feed lost connection. The self destruct mechanism most likely. Once everyone was out all connections were cut off except the line to Brian.

Once we have all the data downloaded and have gone through it we will pass it on to you and plan our next move-

You just condemned that man to God knows what Brian.

Mark heard him sigh. I dont expect you to understand Mark, but it had to be done. The name Sigurdson said is a codeword. It means that you have been caught or compromised and that theyre to be left behind, no question. He knew what the risks were when he volunteered. They all did.

There could have been another way. A way to save him-

What's done is done Mark. He will be remembered for his sacrifice. There was almost no emotion to his voice as he spoke.

Do you even care?

There was a long pause, and Mark started to feel uncomfortable. Brian finally spoke up, voice still level, but there was an edge to it.

Ive lost many people in my lifetime Mark, and its been a long life. Ive grown accustom to it. But do not mistake that with apathy. Brain paused again before continuing. We will contact you when we have the information. The line dropped and Mark was left staring at two blank screens.

Mark stayed the night in Felixs room.

After the call ended, Mark spent the rest of the evening finding all the information he could about Sigurdson. Matthew Jon Sigurdson, age thirty-two. Unmarried and no kids, parents deceased and no siblings. He didn't seem to have any family to speak of. There didnt seem to be any trace of him in any type of social media either. Mark wasnt a hacker of any sort, but he had picked up a thing or two over the years and from what he could see the man barely existed. Most of the information was found through his work files. Mark figured Brian would rather have agents that have no strings attached.

He told Felix about it, and Felix comforted him. Mark never took unnecessary death well. Though as torn up as he was about the fate of Matt, he couldnt deny the success. They had managed to get important intel that would hopefully give them a leg up.

He couldnt bring himself to say it was worth it.

The next morning Mark was sitting in the living room, brooding. He was still irritated with Brian, though there was some guilt at how their conversation ended, and after trying to get a couple hours of sleep he had ended up dreaming about Sean and Ethan being on a date. So his mind had had free range on all kinds of scenarios to depict for him. None of which went down any kind of path he wanted. He looked like a mopey child but he could care less at the moment.

Felix came thumping down the stairs, calling out to Mark. Hey, Im going into the shop to get a couple touch ups down. You coming? He didnt wait for a reply, going over to the front door and putting his shoes on.

Mark considered saying no and continuing to brood, but then the previous images of Sean and Ethan flitted back into his mind and he got up off the couch to join Felix. Both of them should be working today.

Felix spent the drive talking while Mark made sounds of affirmation. Halfway there Felix finally had enough of the one sided conversation.

Whats gotten into you? I know youre still upset about last night, but youve been moody since Saturday. Did something happen with Jack?

Mark shifted uncomfortably. After seeing the message that Ethan sent Sean, He couldn't get the images and thoughts of the two of them out of his head. Then the dream he had... He knew how ridiculous it was, considering its what he wanted, but no matter how he tried, the thoughts plagued him.

Mark kept his gaze forwards as he spoke. Im pretty sure Ethan and Sean had a date on Sunday.

Oh? What makes you think that?

I had, uh, seen a message flash across Seans phone on Saturday from Ethan, saying he couldnt wait to see him with a smiley face.

You looked through his phone?

Mark snapped his head to Felix. What? No! Id never invade his privacy like that. He turned back again. I just, he left his phone when he went to the washroom and while I was waiting I noticed the message flash across his screen.

Felix hummed. Did you ask Jack?

Sort of.

Felix quirked an eyebrow. Sort of?

Well, I invited him over Sunday and he said he was busy with errands and stuff.

Well arent you a mature adult.

Shut up.

They parked in front of the shop, turning the car off.

Maybe it was a miss text.

Mark just looked at Felix, who shrugged. Im just saying.

They exited the car and made their way into the store. Ken was at the desk and looked up as the door opened.

Well, if it isnt my favourite customer and favourite loiter.

I take offense to that, regardless of the accuracy.

Ken laughed and turning to Felix. Youre a little early, Ethan is just finishing up a consultation. Hell be doing your touch ups.

Sounds good. So how is it being a father?

Fucking wonderful and exhausting. I dont think Ive slept since Layla was born to be honest.

Mark rested his elbows on the counter. Hows Mary?

Shes doing pretty well, besides being about ten times more exhausted than me. Still trying to micromanage the store from home. I get messages for updates every other hour.

Sounds like Mary. Felix turned. Excuse me gentlemen, off to the little boys room. He announced, disappearing into the washroom. Mark and Ken continued to talk until Ethan and a woman walked up from the back.

You can make your appointment here with Ken. I dont have any availability until next week though. Ethan gestured to the front. The woman thanked Ethan with a smile and Mark moved out of the way for her.

Hey Mark, hows it going? Ethan smiled and Mark had to resist the irritation that bubbled forth, but immediately felt guilty for the reaction. Ethan hadnt done anything and he really did like the kid. He forced down his childish - and unprovoked - jealously and smiled back at Ethan, offering his hand.

Hey, Ive been good. What about you? Hows it been working here?

Ethan shook his hand his smile growing. Awh man, I love it here. Ive dreamt of this for years. Never thought it would ever happen, and its been better than I could have hoped. Mark practically melted at the enthusiasm and joy coming off of him. He couldnt help but smile at it, feeding off on the emotions he himself hadnt felt in years.

Thats really awesome. Its always important to strive for your dreams, no matter what. Not a lot of people have the ambition for it. Be proud

Ethan beamed at the praise. So wheres my client?

Hes in the washroom, he should be out soon.

Cool, cool.

Mark tried his best, he really did, but he couldnt help it. So, made any new friends since moving here?

Kind of. I know a couple people from online who live in the area back when I was in Maine. So its been cool getting to meet them. Besides that, just my co workers.

Mhm.

Ethan eyed Mark. Yea, theyve been really great. Especially Sean. Hes in a similar boat as me, except I only crossed a country. He crossed a country and an ocean.

Ha, yea. Im glad you guys can support each other. Mark did his best to keep his voice light. He was glad. Knowing from personal experience, moving to a new land by yourself can be terrifying and overwhelming. But it didnt mean he had to like it.

Thankfully, Felix chose that moment to exit the washroom, saving Mark from this conversation.

Hey, sorry. Marzia called me. Im all good to go.

Sweet. Ethan waved bye to Mark as the two disappeared into the back. Ken was on the phone so Mark took a seat in one of the chairs and pulled out his phone. He was just about to break his record in Happy Fall when he heard Seans laughter. He locked his phone, looking up as Sean and an older man who was covered in tattoos came out from the back.

Let us know if you need any other touch ups done.

I will, thanks. Hey Ken, Ken turned to the man. Youve got a fine artist here. Dont let him get snatched away from ya.

Ill do my best. See ya around Greg. Greg waved at them both before exiting, another customer entering and going up to Ken. Sean noticed Mark sitting and he smiled, walking over and plopping down beside him.

Hey, whats up? Got an appointment?

Mark couldnt help the automatic smile that came to his face at Seans presence. Nah, Dont think you will ever catch me with tattoos. Im here with Felix. Hes getting some touch ups done with Ethan.

Never say never. At one point I said the same thing now look at me. He brought his arms up to showcase his point. Mark shrugged in agreeance, smiling. Sean brought his arms back down, rubbing his legs. So, I was planning to take my break now. There's a small park about five minutes from here, I usually go there on my break. Care to join me?

Sure, Ill message Felix, let him know.

Great! I just gotta clock out and grab my lunch. Be just a minute. Sean jumped up and went to the back. Mark messaged Felix, letting him know hed be home later. Sean came back out and they headed over to the park.

It was small and fenced in, picnic tables scattered around and a small play structure and swing set with a few kids playing on it, parents close by. It was lined in flower beds, with large cedar trees providing adequate shade over the tables. The small lush setting was very out of place, surrounded by skyscrapers and jam packed roadways. They walked in and Sean led them to a table seated near the back of the park nestled right under the largest tree there. On either side of the fencing were parking lots, both with only a couple cars parked in them. It felt almost separate from everything else, and Mark could almost shut out all the noise of the city.

I pass by here on my walk to work, and thought it would be a nice place to enjoy my lunch. I usually sit here and sketch. Its really relaxing. I find myself able to block out the various sounds of the city. Still not used to living in a city like this.

Mark sat across from Sean, turning to continue admiring the little green space. Its definitely a nice little nook here. Mark turned back to Sean. Do you miss home?

Sean let out a sigh. Everyday. I almost didnt come here to be honest. Didnt think I could do it, move halfway across the world. But I couldnt turn down this opportunity, and what it could mean for my future. Sean paused for a second before continuing. And as cheesy as it may sound, there was something that felt right about it. I had this pulling feeling, almost like something was telling me to go, that I needed to go. Sean snorted. God that sounds so much worse out loud.

Mark leveled his gaze at Sean. I dont think it sounds cheesy at all. There is a lot we cant explain and our path in life is one of those. Somethings are meant to happen, no matter what choices we make.

Sean met Mark's gaze. Ive always believe that we make our own way in life, but the last few months, its felt like someone else has been at the wheel.

That person is me and all Im going to do is make you crash and burn. I can understand that feeling.

Mhm. They kept eye contact for another moment before breaking it, Mark feeling the usual guilt at the ties Sean had to him, the ones that always lead to misery.

Hey, I wanted to ask, I finally found a new place to rent and can get the fuck out of the building I am in right now. If you guys are free on the twentieth, would you and Felix mind giving me a hand moving? There will be pizza.

Mark laughed. I dont see why not. Ill check with Fe, but hell probably be able to help too. Especially if you are offering food.

Awesome! I have a truck rented for the day. Itll be there around ten.

Sounds good.

They spent the rest of Sean break making small talk. They made plans to rehearse for Wades wedding. Mark had managed to get a drum set delivered to his place and he called Wade, telling him if anyone asks, that he rented it for the wedding, cutting the call before he could question why. They walked back to the shop and Mark was surprised to see that Felix was still there. He was chatting with Ethan who was sitting at the desk. Ken was probably with a client.

Ready to head back? Felix turned to Mark. Mark nodded, watching as Sean went behind the desk with Ethan. Ethan was filling him in before he took his own break, standing very close to Sean. Mark tried not leer at there proximity. He felt his earlier irritation build back up as Ethan placed his hand on Sean's bicep, smiling at him. His thoughts became possessive, images of him walking up and pulling Sean away, making it very clear that he was his.

The thought of mine had him backpedaling, some of the aggression ebbing. Those were unattractive thoughts to entertain over someone he was actively avoiding in any romantic sense, but they were inevitable. There was always a part of him the felt he had some claim over Sean, a more primal part of him, that he did his best to keep down. He knew it was best to try and avoid thoughts of Sean and Ethan, and to stop digging and poking at the beast but so far he was batting zero in his self control.

Mark felt his phone vibrate in his pocket. He pulled it out, seeing he had an email from Brian. The information from the raid.

At least he had something else for his mind to focus on for the evening.