Nikki stood on the patio, a drink in her hand, staring upward

AN: So every once in a while I let Sebby out of his cage. Tonight is the once in a while. This will be a multi chappy story but I make NO guarantee as to how long between chapters.

MN: Ha! I win. Multi chappy fluff! She is SO mad at me right now. That’s so great. Um, so, yeah. Please review for me.

Thanks: Thanks to Pedro for the Beta and some name help.

Nikki stood on the patio, a drink in her hand, staring upward. The night sky was clear and full of stars. She breathed deeply and could feel herself relax a bit more.

“Penny for your thoughts.”

Nikki smiled and turned toward her friend. “I’m trying not to have any. Been a rough week.”

“Which would be why you haven’t wanted to talk to me all week. Why don’t you tell me what’s going on?”

“Mostly just a bunch of little things. Torn jeans, caught in the rain, asshole boss, allergies, flat tire and…” She trailed off and turned back away from Patrick.

“And what? I haven’t seen you in a funk like this since that whole thing with…” Realization dawned on the man.

“This has something to do with Brett doesn’t it?”

Nikki nodded. “Yep. Bastard got himself in trouble again and his attorney has decided I’d make a good character witness. Something about my experience with him being non-violent.”

Patrick forced her to turn toward him. “Let me know when the court date is. I’ll be right there with you. And you’ll make that lawyer regret that particular decision.”

“You live an hour away. It’d cost you an entire day of work. This is my problem not yours.”

“My brother will understand. You’re not going to this alone.” He wrapped her in a hug.

Nikki leaned in to him. “Thanks Pat.” She pushed back. “Now, I do believe it’s shot time.”

“Shot time it is. I’m thinking José.”

Nikki laughed. “Just remember, this is my party. You’re responsible for getting me home.”

“Have I ever let you down Princess?”

“No Cowboy. You haven’t.”