Tom:Oh, the Broadmoor property? Yeah, I've run that down several times now with different agencies and it doesn't appear there are any living descendants with a claim on the property so I figure we can go forward without concern for a title dispute.
Shannon:That's great news and I'm actually appreciative of that update but it's not the topic I have in mind.
Tom:Well, don't keep me in suspense.
Shannon:You've been quietly collecting my brother-in-law from the house every Friday afternoon and returning him late Sunday night. The reason we're having this exchange about my brothers and their ability to function while I'm on leave is because you cut our meeting last Friday short.
Tom:And your concern is…I'm leaving the office early on Fridays?
Shannon:Oh my fucking god, Tom.
Shannon:No. No! My concern is not about the hours you spend in the office, which are extraordinary, but that you've taken to dating my brother-in-law without so much as a peep in my direction.
Shannon:…or a thank you, seeing as I was the one who sent you two on an excursion together.
Tom:If you want to think you're the reason this happened, then… okay. Go for it.
Shannon:So, you admit something has happened.
Tom:Yes. I'll admit that.
Shannon:And you admit you'd like it to continue happening.
Tom:I…I am enjoying the moment.
Shannon:I was like you once.
Tom:I love you but shut up.
Shannon:No, really, I was in your grossly expensive shoes once and I remember telling myself it was just for fun, just while he was on leave, just…whatever. It was whatever and I wouldn't let myself think about anything more than that.
Tom:Yes. I remember that as well. It was such a treat to arrange your travel to all those random locations and then fend off questions from Patrick and Sam about your whereabouts.
Shannon:It's funny how Matt and Riley never wondered where I went.
Tom:They did, they just let Patrick and Sam function as the lead interrogators.
Shannon:Let me ask you something. About your new friend.
Tom:I am going to regret every part of this conversation, aren't I?
Shannon:Don't be so dramatic.
Shannon:Is he bossy? I mean, seriously, *seriously* bossy?
Tom:So much. But also not at all. Does that make sense? He's always barking out orders and being more assertive than reasonable but he follows my lead and waits for my permission. He also breaks into my apartment like it's no big deal.
Shannon:The breaking in! I cannot believe I'd forgotten about that, yes! What is it with the breaking in?
Tom:It's the thrill of it. I'm sure. He's just so satisfied with himself when I come home and he's there, kicked back on the sofa like a happy little pirate.
Shannon:I know exactly the expression you're talking about. I've always wondered whether it's a SEAL thing, a Halsted thing, or a this-is-just-who-Will-is thing.
Tom:I can tell you it's not just Will.
Shannon:I'm sure you know you're welcome to stay at the house together. You don't have to flee the premises. I can't imagine you're enjoying the commute.
Tom:While that is very kind and thoughtful, have you even seen the accommodations you've provided him? Because they're not what I'd expect of Shannon Walsh-Halsted.
