“Stay away from him.” Oscar says capturing the attention of Nicholas.

“Why? Did you find something?” He asks.

“That’s not for you to know.” Oscar replies coldly.

“He’s right.” Ann says. “I have the same question; did you find something?” Oscar looks at Ann who stares at him strongly.

“No…” Oscar mutters. “The crime scene is almost spotless. The only thing we found is a footprint of a size 8 shoe.” Nicholas and Ann look at him, as he continues. “You know Benjamin's shoe size is 8.”

“A lot of guy’s shoe size is 8.” Ann replies.

“My shoe size is 8.” Nicholas adds.

“Right…” Oscar says in a soft voice.

“Look Oz. No one can be in two places at once. He was sleeping in my room that night, he did not go anywhere nor could he.” As Ann says these words Nicholas turns away and continues doing the dishes.

“I know. We even checked the security footage; he was here.” Oscar says as he lets out a sign. “I just don’t want you in danger…ok. So please don’t get involved anymore.”

“Ok…” Ann replies swiftly.

“Great…” Oscar says surprised at her response. “Now that that’s over with. What are you two up to?” He asks as Nicholas lets out a mischievous smile and Ann looks at him annoyed.

“We just had dinner.” Nicholas replies.

“Great…” Oscar says. “Ann can you make me some tea?”

“No…” Ann replies causing Nicholas to laugh. “If this is all you want to say, you can go now…”

“Why?” Oscar says as Ann tries to get him to leave. “Oh come on! I will even help cleaning up…” He says as he approaches and stands next to Nicholas and notices something on his arm. “What’s that?”

“It’s a tattoo…” Nicholas says pulling up his sleeve. “Amazing, respectful, and talented.”

“Looks weird, especially the way it’s put…one on top of the other.” Oscar says as he takes a closer look. “Can’t read the whole thing, just the first letter’s all big and kind of just looks like ‘art’.” Oscar comments.

“Thought it was a good idea in college.” Nicholas replies.

“I think it's unique.” Ann replies smiling as she takes a cup out of Oscar's hand. “Don’t you have work to do…”

“No…” Oscar says hoping to stay.

“Well, we do.” Ann says dragging him out of the kitchen. “We will talk later and next time, please call before you just show up.”

“Wait…” Oscar says as he looks at Ann who has now opened the door. “Is something going on between you two?” Oscar asks and Ann looks at him annoyed.

“That is none of your business.” She whispers as she forces him to leave. “Good night!” She says as she closes the door. She knows her brother is very protective of her and can get over-involved in her relationships. Of course, he means well, but the fact he is a cop and owns a gun has scared off many men, which is why she rarely keeps him informed about her love life. She goes back to the kitchen to see Nicholas with a bright smile. “What?”

“It was nice seeing you like that.” He says. “Your quite different around your brother.” Ann looks a little concerned at these words. “Hey, don’t give me that look.”

“I just hope you don’t think I am faking or something…” Ann replies.

“Faking what?”

“You know; the way I act.” Ann says as she looks at Nicholas. “I am used to my brother so another side just comes out of me.”

“Of course.” Nicholas says. “We all act differently with different people.” He takes a few steps forward and stands beside her. “I just hope one day you will be that comfortable with me… like in the way you communicate not the throwing me out of your house part.” He says as Ann chuckles as well.

“He gets nosy sometimes.” Ann says.

“I can see that.” Nicholas says. “And I don’t mean to overstep but… why was Benjamin at your house?” Nicholas asks as Ann realizes she should tell him the truth. She tells him about how they met and their conversation when he was drunk. About how he admitted he needed help and he told her he remembered everything. “Well… Isn’t that something.” Nicholas says sighing.

“It is.” Ann says.

“I do agree with your brother though.” Nicholas says. “It's best you keep away from him. Especially after what he did to you…”

“I know.” Ann says strongly. “I won’t force him; he must first be ready to get help.”