The ARC, London

[itsananomaly]

A few more days had passed and the press weren't letting up on the stories and a few of them had started to run with the university investigating him for misconduct so he was staying away from anything to do with the news. Now that there didn't seem to be an a possible date for them to return to Fandom, Connor and Cutter had ended up moving to the break room - the office was starting to feel too small, like a jail cell and eventually they had stopped caring. They hadn't showered or changed since the day with the phone call from the university and while Cutter was at least making an effort to eat, it seemed Connor wasn't really even interested in that. They hadn't spoken much at all in the last few days, there didn't really seem to be much they could say that hadn't already been said ... everything was just terrible and until they could get back to Fandom, they were stuck both literally and figuratively. That day Cutter had woken up at lunchtime, which was something that had been happening more frequently these last few days and he'd helped himself to a bowl of cereal that was in the break room, he glanced over to where Connor was still sleeping and had been doing a lot more lately as well, and he wished there something he could do for Connor to help him but he didn't know what. [preplayed with the amazing anomaly_research_nerd. CW for mentions of trauma and grief and depression. NFB for distance but OOC welcome]}

Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor was still asleep on the cot he had set up in the far corner of the break room. He had made the mistake of looking at the new reports the other day and it had just sent his mood spiraling as Christine had been pushing more stories about Cutter but also several about him as well. Somehow she had dug into his past enough to be pushing fairly believable stories that painted him as the broken student, desperate for attention, infatuated with his professor, and willing to do anything for him- even commit treason. There was nothing to say to say to anyone that hadn't already been said and there wasn't anything even to do but wait till it was safe to try and leave to go back to Fandom. Every day the ARC felt more and more like a prison and Connor found himself losing any and all desire to do much of anything. It was only the protesting ache of his back in response to laying on the cot for so long that finally forced him to wake up enough to sit up. Though even that was feeling like a chore right about then.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter wondered if he should try to wake Connor up but then what was the point of waking Connor up when there really was nothing that they could do until they could get back to Fandom. He finished his bowl of cereal and then went to make a cup of coffee but as he went to start making it, he knocked over his coffee cup and it went flying to the ground and smashed in several pieces loudly. He jumped, "shit," he groaned. This was just what he needed right now.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor was still in a mostly asleep daze when the break room echoed with the sound of the breaking mug. He jumped slightly as he looked over at Cutter. "You ok Nick?" he asked as he started to stand, wanting to make sure he wasn't hurt or anything.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	"I ... I'm fine, I didn't cut myself or anything just made a mess," Cutter managed, wincing a little at the mess at his feet, "sorry, I didn't mean to wake you," he said softly as he went to hand a dust pan and broom to clean up all the pieces.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"I needed to get up anyway... can't sleep all day, tempting as it may be" Connor said with a small sigh as he stood and walked over, surveying the damage. At least it had broken and not absolutely shattered. "Here, let me help" he offered as he took the broom, letting Cutter manage the dustpan as he started to sweep the pieces together. It was at least something he could do to be useful, for a few minutes anyway.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter gave a smile smile as Connor took the broom and began to clean it up, he held the dustpan in place as Connor swept up the pieces. "Thank you," he said softly, "not exactly how I planned to spend my morning ... well lunchtime really," he admitted sheepishly, "I slept a bit longer than usual as well,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor gave a faint smile and shrugged. "Gotta be good for something eh?" he said with a dry laugh. Once everything was swept up, he put the broom away and made his way back towards the cot. "I... I'm gonna lay back down for a bit longer..." Had he already been asleep for a while? Yes. Did he feel like doing anything? No. Did he care? Again No and he slumped down onto the cot and ran his hands through his hair.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter sadly watched Connor head back towards the cot, he honestly didn't blame Connor for wanting to go back and sleep, "did you want me to get you something to eat?" he tried, already having a feeling that he knew what the answer would be but he felt he had to ask at least, "there's still some cereal in the cupboard," Because they all knew what a disaster it would be if Cutter attempted to cook something and well the only he had been eating these last few days had been cereal.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor paused for a minute and looked over at Cutter, almost as if he was going to take him up on that offer. But he shook his head. "Naww... not really hungry. I... I'll get something later, Nick." Which is exactly what he had said for the last few days. And as he less than gracefully flopped over onto the cot and tried to ignore the throbbing in his head he knew he really should eat. He just couldn't bring himself to do it just then.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter nodded, "okay," he said as he carefully got a new mug so he could make his coffee again, "just ... let me know if you change your mind," he said softly. Once his coffee had been made and he'd managed to not knock over the mug this time, he made his way back to the table and sat down, slumping down in the chair as he did
Becker(thearcfamily)	A short time later there was a soft knock on the door before it opened and Becker walked in. "Hey guys" he said with a soft smile, the concern on his face evident despite his best effort to act like this was just a random, off the cuff pop-in. "I... got a few things for ya. figure you'd want them sooner rather than later..." he said as he walked in. Becker glanced at Cutter sitting at the table and then over to Connor who was laying on the cot. He bit his lip, trying to fight back the tick of fear he felt rising up inside as he realized how bad the two of them were really getting these last few days.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	“Oh …” Cutter had barely heard Becker come in and he looked up to stare at him, he felt his stomach twist enviously at the thought that Becker got to leave and he slumped even further in his chair, “that’s … that’s nice,” he said rather glumly, he wished he sounded more grateful but he couldn’t even bring himself to be excited that Becker had gone outside and brought things for them.
Becker(thearcfamily)	Becker bit his lip slightly as he walked over to the table and started emptying the bag he had with him. He pulled out a few magazines and set them down on the table in front of Cutter. "Got a few things for you Nick.... and Connor..." he said picking up the other small stack and walking over to the cot, "I got some of the newest issues from the comic shop for you." At first, there was no response, and Connor didn't even make an attempt to move, keeping his back to Becker as he lay there on the cot. Eventually he sighed as he felt his eyes start to fill with tears once again. "Must be nice... getting to go out" he muttered coldly. "Good to know some of us aren't prisoners here." It was harsh and unfair, he knew that deep down, but at that moment Connor couldn't help it and he lashed out at Becker. "Surprised you even bothered to come back."
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Normally Cutter would have tried to say something, come to Becker's defence ... it wasn't Becker's fault that he was the one who got to leave the ARC but it was hard, seeing what he had been able to get while he was out and it had been nearly a week of not being able to even go outside and all of this was reminding him of being in the hospital. He fidgeted as he gaze dropped to the magazines but he couldn't bring himself to pick them up, instead he just sighed and stared down at his coffee mug.
Becker(thearcfamily)	Becker stood there in shock, blinking in surprise at Connor who still kept his back to him. Then with a sad sigh he walked over and set the comics down on the end of the cot. "I'll always come back for you and Nick, Connor" he said softly, trying to keep the hurt and the sting out of his voice. He gave another sigh when there was no response from Connor. "Well, the comics are there if you want them at some point. Guy at the comic shop said some of the best meta for X-Men comics to come out lately are in there so...." Becker trailed off when Connor still didn't move, other than the trembling of his shoulders as he lay there on the cot.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor barely nodded and just pulled his arms around himself tightly and curled up on the cot. He knew he wasn't being fair to Becker but he just couldn't right now. The tears were falling and everything just felt helpless, he was so tired, and all he wanted was to go home. The one thing that didn't seem possible.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter kept staring down at his mug, wishing he could muster up even some kind of energy …he did feel bad for Becker, who was trying to help them but he just wanted to leave and go back to Fandom …where they could at least go outside and go to their jobs and not worried about all these stories in the press.
Becker(thearcfamily)	Becker sighed as he looked from Cutter to Connor and then back over at Cutter. "Right. I can take the hint" he said softly. "I'll let you two be. Just... let me know if you need anything, ok?" He couldn't really blame them for being upset and for Connor lashing out. But it still hurt, and it still scared him a bit just how bad they were taking things. And he was pretty sure neither of them knew about the newest stories that had come out just that morning about him and about Lester. Becker knew they had to find a way to get them back to Fandom, and soon. With one last glance over at Connor and a small nod to Cutter, Becker turned for the door and slipped out into the hallway, closing the door behind him. He needed to find Lester. He needed to talk to him.... now!
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester was in his office, where he’d been since this morning trying to arrange an injunction on the stories about him and Becker that had started appearing. His lawyers were arguing that due to them being special ops, it couldn’t legally be published but it seemed Christine had prepared for this and was fighting back. He personally didn’t care what was written about him but if those damn reporters started sniffing around his family and his girls, , he wasn’t sure he’d be responsible for his actions.
Becker(thearcfamily)	Becker had the newest tabloid clenched in his fist by the time he had made it to Lester's office. He had read it just before going in to see Cutter and Connor and against his better judgment, he had read it again and also seen the same paper had a story about Lester as well. So, by the time he reached Lester's door he was feeling a conflicted jumble of anger, worry, and disgust. With a sigh he hesitated a moment, tried to reign in those emotions, and gave a knock on the door. "Letser? It's Becker."
Lester(thearcfamily)	“Come in Captain,” Lester glanced up from the latest story he had been reading, “I take it. you’ve read this garbage that’s been printed today?” he noticed Becker had a magazine clenched in his hand, “what does this one say?”
Becker(thearcfamily)	Becker walked in and stood by the desk, glancing down at the magazine still crumpled in his hand. He didn't need to read the stories, he remembered each glaring detail all too painfully well. "Claiming 'Captain Becker was engaged in nefarious activities that put his mission at risk and ended up costing the lives of the men under his command," among other loads of nonsense Christine is trying to spin to the media. She really is trying to make good on that threat of destroying the ARC isn't she?"
Lester(thearcfamily)	"I'm afraid so," Lester sighed, "I've been trying to get an injunction in place to stop the stories related to our time in special ops being published but Christine also has really good lawyers, I don't think we're going to be able to win this round," he paused, "has Nick or Connor seen these stories," he nodded towards the magazine.
Becker(thearcfamily)	Becker sighed. He had really been hoping that the special ops angle would be enough to shut the press up and buy them some breathing room. He looked over at Lester as he crumpled the magazine up more and then tossed it into the waste can by the desk. "NO, I don't think they have. Which is a good thing. They... they are not handling things as they are very well right now, Lester. I... took that quick run out we had discussed, trying to get as few things to take their mind off things..." Becker sank into the chair and rubbed his head. "That just blew up in my face. Cutter barely acknowledged I was even there and Connor...he was pissed that I had left the ARC and acted surprised i had come back."
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester looked a little deflated at that and then quickly resumed his normal neutral expression, "I had hoped that would work, I know how much Connor loves those comics, even recommended a few for my eldest," he drummed his fingers on the desk, "have they tried to eat anything at all in the last few days?"
Becker(thearcfamily)	"I know Nick has been eating some... mostly the cereal in the breakroom. There was an empty bowl on the table when I stopped by just a little while ago and he was drinking coffee..." not the best but at least it was something. "But Connor... I'm not sure if he's eaten anything the last few days since the University called. I'm not even sure he's gotten off the cot much even." Becker slumped back in the chair and looked at Lester, the worry clear on his face. "I know neither of them have left the breakroom since they moved there from the office... neither of them have changed or showered either. I... I'm worried about them James..." Becker said, a rare moment of informality sneaking through as that concern and frustration finally got to be too much in that moment.
Lester(thearcfamily)	"So am I Becker," Lester said softly, understanding the need to be informal in this situation, "I'd hoped them moving into the break room might have made things easier ... being out of Nick's office at least but I think it's just made it worse," he paused, "and we need to try and get Connor to eat something, I don't like the idea of Nick only eating cereal and having coffee but at least it's food ...it might be time to try and bring them something, see if we can try the milkshakes again,"
Becker(thearcfamily)	Becker nodded slowly, trying to think of what to do and how to try and fight the effect that Christine was having on all of them. "I... I'll go get the food. Don't want to risk you getting caught up by the press right now" Becker said. "I'll get them their milkshakes like before... maybe grab some burgers and chips too. See if we can get them both to eat... I'll grab the food and then you can take it in to them. I.. I don't think either of them are going to want to see me again right now" Becker said with a somewhat dejected sigh.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester nodded, "thank you Becker," he said softly and then he paused, "don't take it to personally, Nick and Connor don't mean it ... they both respect and trust you, they're just hurting a lot right now, we just have to be there to support them as much as we can,"
Becker(thearcfamily)	"I know..." Becker said with a weak smile. "Lord knows I was a pain in the arse over lesser things in the past. Guess it's time for me to pay my dues." Slowly he stood and glanced out the window in Lester's office and then turned to face him again. "Want me to make the run now? I'm really worried about Connor, so I think the sooner we can try and snap him out of this the better."
Lester(thearcfamily)	"If you wouldn't mind, I do agree that we need to step in now and try to help Connor ... I think this time round Nick's at least got somewhat of a handle on himself ... even if cereal and coffee isn't exactly the most healthiest of food groups," Lester sighed, "getting them to eat something different or in Connor's case eat something at all ...be careful Captain," he said softly, "we're starting to get noticed in the press now, I don't want you to get caught up in a media storm as well,"
Becker(thearcfamily)	"Aye, I will Sir" Becker said with an understanding nod. "I'll call in the order ahead of time so I'm not waiting around forever at the shop. and I'll be sure my men take the back roads so we don't draw any attention to the ARC if I am noticed by the press or anyone." And with that Becker made his way to the door, phone in hand. He paused by the door. "And I'll take two of my men with me, just so Christine doesn't get any ideas" he added before heading out.
Lester(thearcfamily)	After what felt like an eternity, Lester was waiting rather anxiously by the parking lot for Becker to return with his men ... Becker had called to say that he'd encountered a small mob and had managed to get away and shake off anyone who was tailing him but Lester was concerned with this latest development. It was bad enough that Christine had targeted Nick and Connor, now she was going after Becker ... he had to stop her from using the press to go after his team but after his injunction attempt had failed, he was at a loss. So now he was pacing back and forth in the parking lot as he waited for Becker to see that he was alright for himself.
Becker(thearcfamily)	After taking an alternate route back to the ARC to further ensure no one was following them, the black SUV pulled to a stop and Becker and his men got out. As he walked through he doors leading from the parking garage he sighed softly when he saw Lester standing there waiting. "Sir... I'm sorry about the run-in with he press..." he started to apologize as he walked over to Lester.
Lester(thearcfamily)	"This wasn't your fault, we knew there was a chance that this would happen, I had hoped it would be a while longer before it caught up to us," Lester said softly, "are you okay Becker?" he looked at him in concern.
Becker(thearcfamily)	There was a slight hesitation before Becker nodded slowly. Even with the higher profile story that his last mission had been, what with the AV mine explosion, his capture, the rescue, and the loss of his team, he had been spared most of the face to face media attention due to the nature of his mission at the time. So all this press pressure and attention was just as new for him as it was for Cutter and Connor. "Y-yeah... I'm good" he said probably not sounding or looking as convincing as he had hoped. "But I think... I might need to be on lock down for a bit myself at this point. The press recognized me easier than I had anticipated.... which means Christine has likely leaked photos of us as well as the stories."
Lester(thearcfamily)	“I think we may all need to go into lockdown,” Lester said softly, “I’m going to increase security at our homes, I wouldn’t put it past Christine to try and target us personally … if she tries to go after my girls I will not be responsible for my actions,” he growled and then his voice softened, “do you know how our Connor is doing? It’s not him that the stories are being written about but there’s enough similarities between the two Connor’s that it’s got to hurt, seeing those articles about another version of you,”
Becker(thearcfamily)	"I guess that is one good thing about not having any family outside of the team here" Becker said with a sad sigh. "I got no one Christine can use as collateral against me." Well aside from the team, which she was already doing to a surprising degree of success. Becker tilted his head slightly as he considered that question for a moment. "I know he's been spending a lot of his time with Abby so at least he's not along during all of this" Becker said thoughtfully. "I'll make sure to try and check in on him and Abby specifically later today."
Lester(thearcfamily)	"We're all going to have to be careful ...I know Abby has a younger brother and even though I know he's making progress with therapy, Nick does still care about Helen ..." Lester rubbed his nose and sighed, "why I'll never know even though Christine's welcome to that mess if she thinks she get target Helen to get to Nick ...maybe we'll get lucky and Helen will bump Christine off," he said darkly. He tried to straighten his shoulders, "that would be good if you could check on Connor and Abby, now ... I think it might be time to see Connor and Nick ... hopefully milkshakes and burgers will cheer them up," If they didn't, he wasn't sure what they would do.
Becker(thearcfamily)	"I will go see Connor and Abby now" Becker said with a nod. "I'm pretty sure Connor has been working on that anomaly-locking device of his the last few days. Abby's probably with him still too." Becker gave a small nod and squared his shoulders the best he could and tried to get back that professional and in-control demeanor. "I will see you in a few hours for an update report. Good luck Sir." And with that Becker turned and made his way toward the lab, his men following behind.
Lester(thearcfamily)	"Thank you Captain," Lester nodded and taking a deep breath, holding the milkshakes and bag with the hamburgers, he headed back to the break room, not really sure what he was going to expect when he got there. He peered into the break room, trying to see where Nick and Connor were. He noticed Cutter was at the kitchen counter, pouring another cup of coffee, he wondered how many cups that had been for Nick already that day, he entered the room. "I have something that you both might be interested in" he announced.
Connor(thearcfamily)	Connor hadn't moved much at all really, still laying on the cot, back to most of the breakroom. He heard someone come in and when he heard Lester's voice he turned slightly to see, as if to make sure it really was him. But he didn't make any move to get up or really acknowledge him. He was just so tired. Everything hurt. All he wanted to do was be left alone so he could sleep. Why did that seem like such an impossible thing for anyone to understand?
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester was careful to keep his expression neutral but he was worried at Connor's non reaction, Becker had been right to be concerned and he should have kept a closer eye on Connor. He walked over to the table in the break room, Nick turned to face Lester, mug of coffee in his hand as he watched both Nick and Connor. "I was able to get milkshakes for you," he said, continuing as he started to get everything ready, "pineapple and mango and chocolate and peanut butter I believe are particular favourites and there's hamburgers as well," he looked between Connor and Nick, waiting for a reaction.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	It took a couple of minutes before Connor registered that his stomach was actually growling quite persistently just then. Slowly he managed to roll over and even sit up as he looked across the break room at Cutter and then over at Lester. His body was fighting itself just then. The thought of eating anything made him feel a bit sick to his stomach but at the same time his body was yelling at him to actually eat something. "Milkshake might be tolerable...." he said at last, his voice sounding softer and weaker than he had expected it to. "Can't let it melt and go to waste after all..."
Lester(thearcfamily)	The relief Lester felt that that seemed to get a reaction was instant but he was careful to not show it and instead he nodded at Connor, "it would be a shame to let these go to waste," he agreed, he didn't want to tell them about the trouble that Becker had trying to get them and his run in with the press, Nick and Connor had enough worries right then. Cutter put down his coffee as he went over to the table, looking at his milkshake and burger and then his stomach growled loudly, he'd only been eating cereal and he knew he should eat something else. Lester went and got a couple of plates, he handed one to Nick and then he put a burger on a plate and then took Connor's milkshake and burger over to him, "you don't have to rush this," he said gently as he put it on the table that was by the cot, "you can take as much time as you need to eat this,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor looked at Lester and then over to the food. His stomach flipped slightly at the thought of the burger... but the milkshake should be manageable. "Thanks..." he whispered as he reached over for the milkshake. He hesitated a moment then took a slow sip. It really did taste good.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester watched Connor take a sip of the milkshake ... it wasn't much but at least it was a start. "You're welcome Connor," he said softly, he wouldn't push Connor to eat the burger if he didn't feel up to do and besides, the burger could always be reheated later. Cutter sat down at the table and took a bite of his burger and then another bite, after only eating cereal the last few days, the burger was really the best thing he'd eaten ... which admittedly wasn't hard to beat. "This is really good, thank you James," he said in between mouthfuls of his burger.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor slowly made his way through the milkshake, finally getting past that initial conflict of both feeling like he was starving and feeling like he was going to be sick trying to eat. And the burger did look good... but he'd probably end up saving it for later. He set the milkshake down on the table for the moment and looked over at Lester. He wanted to say something. To apologize. He knew he had not been fair to Becker earlier. But he still just felt so lost and helpless and he didn't know how to deal with that. "Milkshakes save the day again" he managed with a weak grin.
Lester(thearcfamily)	"They do make the best milkshakes, I always find milkshakes really do make everything feel better," Lester smiled softly at that as he watched Connor drink the milkshake and Nick eat the burger, after how everything had turned out these last few days, it was nice to see them eat and drink something - in Nick's case eating something other than cereal and Connor - eating anything at all. He looked between the two of them, "is there anything else you'd like me to get for you?"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"I'd say a couple of portal tickets back to Fandom, but I know that's not doable right now," Connor said with a small laugh. He looked down to the stack of comics still at the foot of the cot, and he felt a twinge of pain in his chest, remembering how badly he had treated Becker earlier. "I... I should probably try and be a bit productive if nothing else..." he said softly, staring at his hands for a moment. "Could always try and start working on some of the new tech prototypes..."
Lester(thearcfamily)	"I'm still working on that first one I'm afraid," Lester said softly, "things have gotten more complicated in the last 24 hours but I promise you I'm doing everything I can to get you both to Fandom," He hesitated, he should be honest with Nick and Connor about the stories that had started to appear in the press about Becker and him and Becker's run in but this was good progress and he didn't want to worry them. "I know our Connor's being working in the lab," he suggested, "I'm sure he would appreciate any help as well if you wanted to work in the lab,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Might pop over..." Connor said softly. "See if I can help. Though... Probably would be best if... I got a shower first huh?" Connor gave a small weak smile at Cutter and Lester. He still felt bad, still felt lost and a little scared. But he knew he wasn't alone. He just ... Just had to remember that.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester smiled, "A shower would probably help," he said softly, "and if either of you ever want to talk, I'm here and so is Becker," he added, wanting them to both know that Becker wasn't mad at them for what happened earlier.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Thanks Lester that ..means a lot" Connor said as he went back to the milkshake. He knew it was going to be a rough road but deep down he knew he didn't have to do it in his own. He wasn't alone anymore. Connor gave a small smile to Lester and Cutter.
Cutter(thearcfamily)	"Thank you James," Cutter said softly as he gave a small smile of his own to Connor, "I should probably take a shower as well, get into some actual clothes," he added a bit sheepishly, he didn't really feel like doing much of anything but showering and changing into clean clothes would be a start.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"I should find Becker too when I'm done" Connor said with a sigh. "I... I definitely owe him an apology." He just hoped Becker was ok and that he would forgive him for being such a jerk to him.
Lester(thearcfamily)	“Captain Becker was stopping by the lab,” Lester told him, “but he may be on his rounds now and he understands this has been hard for both of you, he’s not angry with either of you,” he assured them.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"That... that's good to know..." Connor said as he stood up from the cot, for the first time that day really, and made his way over to the table and sat down so he was closer to Nick and Lester. "I'll try and track him down later. Let him know how his comic selection was" he added with a small smile that might have been a little forced but at least it was an attempted smile.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester smiled, "A shower would probably help," he said softly, "and if either of you ever want to talk, I'm here and so is Becker," he added, wanting them to both know that Becker wasn't mad at them for what happened earlier.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Thanks Lester that ..means a lot" Connor said as he went back to the milkshake. He knew it was going to be a rough road but deep down he knew he didn't have to do it in his own. He wasn't alone anymore. Connor gave a small smile to Lester and Cutter.
Cutter(thearcfamily)	Cutter smiled over at Connor, pleased to see that Connor was sitting at the table, "I'll have to apologise as well," he said softly, "I wasn't exactly that friendly to Becker earlier either," he admitted as he glanced down at the magazines that were on the table, he had started to read through them. Lester looked at Cutter and Connor, he wondered if he should give them the heads up about Becker but then felt that should be Becker's call if he wanted to tell them, he nodded, "he would really appreciate that," he said softly.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor nodded and worked on the milkshake some more. He glanced at the burger and chips but decided it would probably be best to take it slow. He could always have them later after he went to talk to Becker. "Thanks again Lester... for... for everything," he said softly. "This has really helped," he added with a soft but genuine smile.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	After a while Lester had left and Connor and Cutter had both eventually showered and changed into clothes for the first time in a few days, it was going to be hard but they knew they needed to apologise to Becker - he had only ever tried to look out for them and they’d treated him horribly that morning so once they felt ready, they started to go and look for him. “Do you want to start by the lab first?” Cutter asked softly as he considered where Becker could be in the ARC.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	It wasn't his nicest set of clothes he had at the ARC but at least he was showered and in something other than what were essentially his pajamas now. Connor was still nervous about talking to Becker, he knew he needed to but he was worried about how Becker would respond. He didn't know what to do if Becker was still cross with them after everything... and he wouldn't have blamed him at all. "I... I think we could start heading toward the Lab. We might run unto him on his patrol on the way?"
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter nodded, trying to not feel nervous either about approaching Becker, "I think that would be the best option, maybe Connor ... um my Connor will know what direction he went in if we don't run in to him on patrol?" He felt really bad that he hadn't thought to check in with his Connor, how he was doing with all of this media attention ...he had let Christine get the better of him and he was going to make sure that the team weren't going to fall apart like she was hoping they would.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor had been a bit wrapped up in his own personal drama lately. He hadn't even thought about what Becker had been going through and he had totally been neglecting Abby and Connor as well. "Hopefully we can find him. I... I need to apologize and try to make this right."
Cutter(thearcfamily)	"We both do," Cutter said softly, "I've done exactly what Christine was hoping I'd do ... fall apart and the team's suffering now," he sighed, "I've been incredibly selfish,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"We both have screwed up and need to make this right" Connor said and took a breath as he glanced down the hallway. "The lab is just around the corner. You.... you ready for this?"
Cutter(thearcfamily)	"I'm ready," Cutter said, fidgeting slightly but he had to own this and apologise to Becker, it was the start of a long list of making things right, "I hope he's going to want to talk to us, I wouldn't blame him if he didn't want to see us right now after everything,"
Becker(thearcfamily)	Connor nodded, biting his lip slightly as they approached the lab. It was now or never, if Becker was even there or not. And almost on queue, the door to the lab opened and Becker stepped out. As he turned around he stopped short when he saw Connor and Cutter. "Oh hey... Nick.. Connor..." Becker said with a small nod, acting like he was willing walk on and leave them be if they didn't want to talk to him or see him.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter took a deep breath, he knew he had messed up and it was time to do the right thing and apologise, "um ... Becker I ... I wanted to apologise for my behaviour earlier, you were only trying to help and I wasn't fair to you and I'm sorry," he looked over at Connor, he wanted Connor to have his own chance to apologise and say what he wanted to say.
Becker(thearcfamily)	"I know I... I dont deserve it becker but... I... I'm sorry for the way I treated you. I'm so sorry that I treated you that way when all, all you wanted to do, all you were trying to do, was help us." Connor hung his head and waited, waited for Becker to either ignore him, or yell at him, or tell him off. What Becker did however came as a surprise as he looked from Cutter to Connor and then stepped towards them. He reached out and grabbed Connor's shoulder and pulled him into a hug. He reached out and grabbed Cutter to pull him in close as well.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter hadn't been expecting this when he had considered Becker's reactions, he had been expecting a cold shoulder or maybe even being yelled at so when he was drawn into the hug along with Connor, he couldn't stop the tears that started building and then before he knew it he was sobbing against Becker, "I'm so sorry,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	It didn't take long for the tears to start falling for Connor as well, as he blinked them back for a moment as the realization of Becker's reaction sank in. There was no yelling, no cold shoulder for the one he had been given, no anger... and the next thing Connor knew he was returning that hug and letting the tears fall. "I'm sorry I... was such a jerk All... all you have ever tried to do... was keep us safe... look out for us... and I... I..." Connor's words trailed off as a sob escaped him, those words being replaced by Becker talking to both of them as he tightened his hold on them. "You big dummies" he said, the tone light and almost loving. "I've already forgiven you. I forgave you before I even left the breakroom this morning."
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter kept sobbing as he clung tightly to Becker, "I wouldn't have blamed you if you were angry, we were horrible to you this morning, I just let everything get to me and I took it out on you and I don't deserve your forgiveness," he trembled. He really couldn't wrap his head around the fact that Becker had forgiven him so easily, he wasn't sure if he'd ever be able to forgive himself for how he had treated Becker.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"You are a good man Becker... too good" Connor said still trembling and trying to calm down. "You've been good to us every step of the way. More than we deserve. But I let Christine get to me... get in my head... and I'm sorry." "You both have been through a lot" Becker said as he let go of them slightly and looked at them both. "Anyone would be stressed and off their game. We are going to get through this ok? We won't... we can't let Christine win."
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter trembled and nodded, he let out another sob, "I'm ... I'm going to fight her, I'm not letting her win anymore," he took a deep breath, "even if we're still in lockdown, we can still do things as a team ... maybe have a movie night or something, to try and distract us from what's going on, I'm not letting Christine tear the team apart,"
Becker(thearcfamily)	"Team activities could be a good thing. We... we need to be united if we are going to fight against Chrsitine," Becker said, hesitating a moment, still not sure if it was best to hold off on the latest press stories or risk then finding out and being annoyed he hadn't told them. "Movie night or lunch dates could be nice though" Connor agreed with a nod. "Something to break out up the monotony of being on lockdown."
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter noticed Becker's hesitation and bit his lip, wondering if something else had happened but nodded, "do you think James will let us do something like that? Maybe get food delivered here or something, I'm sure we can find a movie to watch on cable since we can't exactly get to a video store,"
Becker(thearcfamily)	"I'm sure we can work something out, Lester might even tag along for one of our get togethers" Becker said with a smile. "It... it would be a good distraction from... everything." Becker sighed as he looked at Cutter and Connor, noting the curious look Connor gave him. He couldn't do it to them.... keeping this from them, now... after all this? It could be the one thing they couldn't forgive him for. "I... there is something I need to tell the two of you."
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter couldn't help but tense at that, wondering what Becker had to say that he was hesitating telling them, "something else has happened hasn't it," it wasn't a question and he glanced nervously at Connor.
Becker(thearcfamily)	Becker sighed as he leaned back against the wall and ran his hand through his hair as he looked from Connor to Cutter. "There's... there's been more stories released to the press," Becker said simply. "About... Lester and... me..." Becker said softly.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter's stomach dropped, "oh I'm so sorry Becker," he said softly, "I didn't ... I thought Christine would stick with the stories about me and Connor, I didn't think she'd start targeting anyone else on the team ... how ... how bad are the stories?" Based on how hesitant Becker had been to tell them, he could only imagine what stories Christine had spun to the media about Becker and Lester.
Becker(thearcfamily)	"You... you found out today didnt you?" Connor asked suddenly feeling even more like a jerk than he already was. "When your left the ARC to get the things for us..." Becker nodded and sighed. "Yeah, found out new stories had been printed overnight. And had a run in with the press when I went to get lunch later this afternoon." Becker tried to act like it was no big deal but he had a feeling the charade wasn't working. "The series are... well, they are what you would expect from Christine. Focus on government corruption, covert military campaigns, talk of accepting bribes, of coverups gone wrong, and sharing of government secrets and security details. So yeah... typical Christine attack on Lester and myself."
Cutter(itsananomaly)	"Oh Becker," Cutter said softly and went into give him a hug, "I ... I'm sorry you had to go through that, I'm surprised Christine was able to publish stories relating to your time in the military, aren't they normally classified?" he didn't know much about how the military was run but based on what he knew from Becker ... they were usually pretty quiet when it came to things like the press.
Becker(thearcfamily)	"Let's just say Christine has some very very good lawyers of her own and has friends in some very high and very shady places. Lester is still fighting to get an injunction in place to stop the stories about our time with Spec Ops. But... so far no luck" Becker said with a sigh as he leaned into that hug ever so slightly. And it wasn't just a one sided hug either because Connor was right there a second later with a hug of his own. "I... I'm sorry I was so harsh earlier... when you ended me... needed us the most... we weren't there fo you. No more- Christing wants to come at one of us she has to come at all of us and we won't let her win."
Cutter(itsananomaly)	"You needed us and we let you down, after everything you've done for us and James too ... " Cutter felt terrible he had let it go this far, "we can't let Christine get away with this, there's got to be something we can do to stop these stories, make the press lose interest in us,"
Becker(thearcfamily)	"I'd normally say fight fire with fire but in a case like this, i think time unfortunately is going to be the only thing to kill the press' interest in all theses leaks. If we push too hard with our own dirt on Christine it will just rile things up prolong the focus." Becker rubbed the bridge of his nose. "Aside from the legal action Lester is pushing for with the legal team I think the only thing we can do is hunker down and weather through this. Hopefully, we can get the two of you safely back to Fandom. that should help start the wind-down process since its a guaranteed two fewer people for them to look for and find."
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter bit his lip, he didn't like the idea of leaving Becker and Lester alone to deal with the press since this was all his fault they were in this position but he nodded, he knew the sooner he and Connor got back to Fandom the easier it would be for them, "are you sure you're going to be okay here though? Dealing with Christine and the press now that they know about you and James? Does this mean you won't be able to leave the ARC either if the press know what you look like?"
Becker(thearcfamily)	"I'll be on lockdown for a bit, hopefully, the anomalies cooperate... but I really don't see much hope in that maybe we will finally get a break," Becker said with a small grimace. "But we will figure it out... together."
Cutter(itsananomaly)	"I mean we've been pretty lucky so far?" Cutter tried to sound optimistic even though he didn't feel it, "maybe the anomalies will decide to stay closed until after all of this press stuff goes away?" He seriously doubted but it was nice to think about it.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Take it one day at a time. All we can do" Connor said with a nod. "Take it as it comes and do the best we can. We can fight this and we can beat Christine. We just cant let her get between us." ed us the most... we weren't there fo you. No more- Christine wants to come at one of us she has to come at all of us and we won't let her win."
Cutter(itsananomaly)	"And we'll do that," Cutter said, looking between Connor and Becker, determined to not let Christine get the upper hand after the last few days, "we're not going to let her destroy everything we've worked hard for, we can do this ... if we stick together,"
Becker(thearcfamily)	"Together we'll find a way to stop her. We've all come too far and done too much to let her win" Becker said putting a hand on both Cutter and Connor's shoulder. "So let's go get started on this plan of ours eh?"
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter nodded, relieved that Becker wasn't mad at them and he cheered up at the idea of working on a plan, it felt nice to be able to be productive again, "I think that sounds like a great idea," he smiled.