[Prompt: The ties that bind us.]

[ after this ]

Bradley Lancaster and Michael Davis never expected to have this conversation. They have a mutual respect for one another as two agents at the top of their respective disciplines. Michael recognizes Brad's bonafides and Brad has seen firsthand how capable Michael is in ways that he isn't. But there's also a silent understanding that they both have separate parts to play in Janet's life, each of them knowing they both love her and want the absolute best for her, and that both of them will be important in her achieving it. But Brad has always known what Michael's relationship with Janet isn't, so Michael is visibly thrown when Brad decides to call it out in the middle of their talk about how Janet has been depressed recently.

"It's just breaking my heart to deal with," Michael admits, running a hand through his hair. "I don't want to say anything to her and make her feel guilty. But I hate to see her in any kind of pain. Especially when we know the weight is only going to get heavier in the next year."

They've both been feeling like the whole world is on their shoulders. They know that Michael is tipped for Anthony Brennan's job and that Janet will be right there beside Michael. They've given themselves an overwhelming pressure to get it perfect. And in their specific case, losing the boss who's led them forever feels like watching their families fall apart again. Michael understands completely why Janet is struggling, but he doesn't know how to make it any better.

( cut for length )

[1427 words]