On Wednesday, when the site was no longer a crime scene, the group agreed to meet at the collective. They gathered in the parking lot; all were solemn.
“It feels weird being back here,” Scarlet said.
“Very weird,” Juliet put in.
Daisy sighed heavily. “Will things ever be the same?”
“Never,” Heath announced. “But this is our place and we need to embrace it.”
“Wow,” Oliver commented. “That’s not like you.”
“I know. But we do. So let’s not cower out here.”
“I agree.” Finn took Juliet’s hand and she clasped her other one with Oliver. Daisy took Heath’s and Scarlet’s. “Let’s check out our offices and then meet in the common area.”
They went up to the building, gave each other encouraging looks then separated and went to their individual studios.
Oliver was surprised to see Finn follow him inside.
“Do you need something Finn?”
“A minute of your time.
Oliver leaned up against the wall. “Sounds serious.”
“It is.”
“Hmm.”
“Elise and I would like you to stand up with us at our wedding on Saturday.”
Oliver’s jaw dropped. “You’re getting married?”
“Yeah. Only you and Fiona and Elise’s director are invited.”
“Wow. I knew you’d been getting close, but I didn’t realize it went this far.”
“There’s more. It’s not why I asked her to marry me, but she’s nearly a month pregnant.”
“Hey, this is great.” A big smile. He playfully socked Finn’s shoulder. “You’re gonna be a dad. I’m so jealous.”
“Like I’ve been telling you, you gotta find a girl.”
“I probably will, after this.” He clapped Finn on the shoulder. “Congrats, buddy.”
Along with the others, Oliver worked all day, scrubbing the door from his practice to the common area, and helping Juliet, who was closest to the bomb. Heath pitched in on Daisy’s rooms.
Leaving his door open, Oliver went inside his studio. Juliet came to the door. He looked around. “You’d never know the police had dusted for prints in here and scoured the carpets for evidence. Even the windows were sparkling.”
“I don’t think my practice has ever been this clean.”
He smiled at her. “I read that the U.S. forensic cleaners are the best in world.” He studied her. “How are you?”
“As good as can be expected.” She looked at him.
“Do you think Heath’s right? That things will never be the same here?”
“No. You know him, the ultimate pessimist. And even if he was right, maybe we’ll appreciate all this more.”
