(Untitled)

[frustrated_asst]

Natalie wanders down to the bar, settles in at a table, and orders dinner. She decides upon spaghetti and meatballs, with a small side salad, and a good red wine paired with the meal.

She would not be adverse to some company while she eats, though.

Comments

[slightlymonkish]

Someone is now sitting next to her, straightening out her napkin.

Who could it possibly be?

[frustrated_asst]

"Hello, Mr. Monk." She smiles at her boss. "How are you?"

[slightlymonkish]

"Okay," he answers honestly, distractedly poking at the napkin dispenser across from them. "Still trying to clear my head."

[frustrated_asst]

She nods. "Can I help?" she asks, looking over at him.

[slightlymonkish]

"No," he says, shaking his head. "I just... need some time. I'll get my groove back soon enough."

He thinks he's cool.

[frustrated_asst]

She hides a smile as she takes a drink.

"I'm here if you need me, Mr. Monk."

[slightlymonkish]

"I know."

His own smile is a very tired-looking one.

"Have you been given the grand tour of the grounds yet?"

[frustrated_asst]

She shakes her head. "I've been too busy meeting people!"

[slightlymonkish]

"We could go for a walk later, uh, if you want."

Monk's been taking a lot of walks, lately.

[frustrated_asst]

"That would be nice." She smiles. "What is beyond the bar?"

[slightlymonkish]

"A lake, a forest filled with demon bunnies, some mountains, a tropical inlet."

[frustrated_asst]

.....

"Demon bunnies?"

[slightlymonkish]

"Yeah. Nasty little things -- but they don't really bother you unless you get too close or give them a reason to."

Beat.

"I never go in the forest anyway, so I don't have to worry!"

But she already knew that!

[frustrated_asst]

...............

........

"Right."

[slightlymonkish]

"... yeah. Don't worry."

He will protect you, Natalie!

[frustrated_asst]

"I won't." She smiles at him.

At least, she won't worry about herself. Worrying about Monk, however, is second nature by now...