Pit Stop [for Gibbs]

[too_late4tom]

Tom has spent the last few days on Shell Beach, trying to get his memories in order. It hasn't been easy, but long walks on the boardwalk have helped. Part of him misses his sister, knowing she's just a few streets away, but most of him relishes this time alone

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[tictoctictoc]

Another young man stands by the fence, shivering coatless in the chilly autumn wind. Where he just came from, the weather is tropical, and he forgot the City has seasons. There's a backpack at his feet, but his fingers are hooked into the chainlink fence, and he peers into the empty construction site, frowning spacily.

Gibbs can't feel the machines the way John can, but he's seen them, and he can imagine them now, ticking away slowly beneath his feet. He left without Melinda this time, not because she's currently a vampire, but because at some point he has to face this alone, and now seemed as good a time as any. He left a note for her on the bed, and he currently wears a PINpoint around his wrist.

It's the smell of cigarette smoke that gets his attention, more than any sound Tom makes. He twitches slightly and looks over at the approaching man. "...who are you?"

City people aren't supposed to be here. He's a little surprised anyone got past the eerie feel of the place.

[too_late4tom]

Tom blinks, a little startled. He had zoned out a little, as well. "My name's Tom," he replies, looking Cornelius over. "Tom Bailey." There's a slight pause in his introduction; he has another name, but he doesn't remember being called that since he moved to the City.

He gets the impression that the other man didn't expect him to be here. "I was just out for a walk," he explains. "Kinda chilly out, huh?"

Then he notices the PINpoint on Gibb's wrist. Most city dwellers would pass that off as some fancy-pants watch, but Tom knows better. His eyebrows go up but he doesn't comment.

[tictoctictoc]

"Heh, very chilly." Gibbs smiles sheepishly. He really wishes he'd brought a coat.

"Cornelius Gibbs." He offers a handshake. "I didn't mean to be rude, it's just...this site's supposed to be off-limits to, uh, pretty much everyone. I was surprised to see someone here."

He's not sure how to interpret the glance at his PINpoint. Does Tom know what it is, or does he just think it looks weird.

[too_late4tom]

Tom returns the handshake. "Nice to meet you, Cornelius." He smiles. "No offense taken. Looks like they don't want any trespassers around here." He glances at the PINpoint again. "What brings you by, then?" He hopes that doesn't sound accusatory. Is Cornelius a visitor from the Nexus, or is he one of the few people who really does know the truth about the City?