Nathan & John | Friday Afternoon

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'Irritability is immaturity of character. You're thinking too much of yourself. After all, your feelings are not the most important things in this world.' -Anonymous-


The guest house in the southern village had been a pleasant place to stay, but the one in Kanda was downright palatial. They'd even been provided with some office-type facilities, and that was where Nathan found John, photocopying some of the papers Bashenga had provided. The document had details on potential resettlement sites, as well as a surprisingly well-organized proposal as to the support the Wakandan government was prepared to provide.

"I can't believe they drew this up so quickly," Nathan said, picking up one stack of papers and leafing through it. "I think T'Challa's mother must have some major pull."

John nodded. "Wakanda's very own Minister of Education." He closed the lid on the machine. "Guess we shouldn't expect any less in terms of contacts and paperwork."

"Well, I'm not looking a gift horse in the mouth." Nathan winced as his back protested, and went over to sit down, muttering under his breath. "I'm getting too old for this."

He glanced over at Nathan, looking slightly amused. "Rumor has is that a roof fell on you last night?"

Nathan's eyes narrowed. "Who's telling tales? I need to drop something on their heads." He gave John one of those slightly manic smiles. "Sorry you weren't there last night?"

"Well, I was kept rather busy sitting at the kids table so..." John shrugged, flipped the page and started another round of photocopying. "How's Rahne doing?" He hadn't bothered to check up on her, having chosen to play the part of the unconcerned bastard.

"Well as can be expected, given that she got shot this week. I was really hoping that none of you were going to experience the fun that is gunshot wounds," Nathan muttered, but then shook his head.

"I highly doubt anyone's gonna be stupid enough to break your record." He flicked a glance at the older man. "I'm sure it's impressive. Admirable even."

Nathan eyed the younger man. "Are you annoyed that you weren't along last night, or are you just having fun?" he inquired, blandly.

"What, am I supposed to edit myself now?" He turned to look at Nathan. "I really couldn't care less -- so yeah." He nodded. "I must be having fun then."

Nathan's lips were twitching suspiciously. "Oh. I'm glad, then." He turned his attention back to the papers, skimming through them. It was a sign of how tired he was, still, that he wasn't reading them as quickly as he might have under other circumstances.

That's great, Allerdyce. Always a good idea to act like a fifteen year old in front of your boss, he thought with a slight shake of his head, before he quickly went back to the business of photocopying the rest of the documents and rearranging them in order.

"I'm going to pack these up for the trip back," John said, breaking the silence after a good ten minutes. "Anything else that you need?"

"Mmm... no, not right now." He gave John a thoughtful look. "Are you staying for the party, or going back with Angelo?" He let the smile out this time, although it was a bit wry. "T'Challa promised lots of opportunities to meet helpful people."

"Gee, between heading back to New York for what's going to be a surprise party for Angelo and staying back to attend a party right here--" John raised his eyebrows slightly. "I don't know. I'm kinda spoiled for choice." He picked the files and folders up. "Guess I'll take the time to weigh the pros and cons for a couple of hours before I let you know," he said. "Or hey, you can always just tap into my mind and figure it out for yourself, right?"

"I shouldn't get in the habit of reading my employees' minds," Nathan said with a perfectly straight face. "I'll wind up finding out what they really think of me as a boss."

"Good thing I can't be held accountable for my unspoken thoughts," he said. "Unless of course, I somehow missed out on reading the fine print on the contract."

"Mmm," Nathan said again. "Good work this week, John," he said, before the younger man could turn away. "I think you all need bonuses."

"Just so we're clear, you're not going to be able to influence my conduct and behavior with a bribe." John managed a smirk. "But I'll be sure to remind you about that bonus anyways."