from fic

[mimesere]

Gunn found him in one of the rooms, sitting on the bed with his hands clasped tightly between his knees.

Wesley spoke softly, not bothering to look up. "Have you ever woken up in the morning and realized that life has passed you by?"

"I dunno," said Gunn. He shrugged. "No."

"I have. I don't especially recommend the experience."

"Wes--"

Wesley glanced at him. "How is Fred?"

"She's good, man. And if you actually say you care, I will call you a liar to your face."

Wesley nodded. "I'm leaving in the morning."

"You're--"

"Leaving. You are a bright man, Gunn. And it's not a *difficult* word." He smiled and, for what was maybe the first time since they'd met, Gunn wanted to hit him.

"So you're running away."

"Making a strategic retreat."

"Running away like a rank-ass--"

"Gunn--"

"--fucking *coward*--"

"Charles," said Wesley quietly.

Gunn looked away.