Cabin in the Woods Outside London

[anomaly_research_nerd]

Connor felt an odd mix of nervousness and excitement as he stood outside the cabin, nestled among the trees in the small clearing. He stared up at it in awe. Calling it a cabin was a bit of a misnomer, the thing was huge. It could have been considered a mansion if it wasnt for the very rustic log-cabin look. He stood there for a moment trying to convince himself that he was actually getting to stay here for an entire week. It seemed too good to be true really, especially after everything that had been happening. He could barely believe that Lester would have invited him to stay with him at his private cabin for the week. And yet, here he was. Somebody had better pinch him! "Wow..." he said still staring in awe. "This place is amazing!" And that was just the outside! [preplayed with itsananomaly. CW for medical trauma, grief, mentions of loss of a child and mentions injury from gunshot wound. NFB due to distance but OOC welcome!

Lester(thearcfamily)	"You deserve this Connor," Lester smiled, pleased to see him looking excited about this, "just wait until you see inside the cabin, there's everything you need for a week of relaxing, anything you want to do for the week while you're here just let me know and I'll make the arrangements for it,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Thanks... Lester" Connor said as he still stood there for a moment before shifting the bag on his shoulder and following Lester inside. "It's a wonder you spend any time at all back at the office" he said as he looked around. "I don't think I'd ever leave if I had a place like this of my own waiting for me."
Lester(thearcfamily)	"Someone has to keep everyone in line," Lester couldn't help but smile at that as he led Connor into the main living area, "the office would fall apart if I wasn't there," "I'll get us a fire going in no time and then I'll work on dinner, this trip is about you relaxing and taking time for yourself, so if you want to get settled in while I get us set up, the tv has cable if you want to watch something,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor nodded, because it was true- the ARC would be even more chaotic without Lester around. He walked in and set his bag down by he couch and slowly sat down. Connor remembered Lester's apartment back in London and how nice and fancy and perfect everything was. But the cabin seemed more relaxed, laid back. But it was still far fancier than anything Connor had seen before, and it took him a few minutes to relax enough to finally settle back on the couch. But once he did he gave a small sigh and closed his eyes, trying to not think about the rest of the team, what was going on in fandom, or even about Cutter and what he was up to. This week was about him... Lester wanted him to focus on relaxing and taking care of himself, and he was trying his best to do so.
Lester(thearcfamily)	True to his word, it didn't take long at all for Lester to get the wood needed to get the fire going and the warmth filled the cabin giving it a nice and cozy feel. "What would you like for me to make for dinner?" Lester asked once the fire was going, "the kitchen is fully stocked so I can make anything that you'd like, it's no trouble,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor felt himself relaxing a bit more, the warmth of the fire helping to speed up that process. He actually didn't hear Lester talking at first. "Oh ummm... Maybe... maybe fish and chips?" Connor asked somewhat shyly. He knew Lester made really good fish and chips. He had made them before, when he and Cutter were staying with him after.... Connor shook his head and pushed the thought down. This was his time away, his time to be a little selfish, he was supposed to relax and focus on himself. "And don't worry... I won't try to help in the kitchen this time" Connor said with a laugh.
Lester(thearcfamily)	"Fish and chips its is," Lester smiled at that and then paused a bit at that last comment, pleased to hear that laugh from Connor, "well this is all about you and making sure you stay as relaxed as possible, so you helping in the kitchen would defeat that purpose," he pointed out but he was secretly relieved all the same, he didn't want to experience another destroyed kitchen.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Yes, it was a very good thing Connor was staying out of the kitchen this time around. He sat flipping through the TV channels for a few minutes then looked over to the kitchen area where Lester was already starting on their meal. "I have to admit... I never pegged you for much of the outdoorsy cabin-in-the-woods type." That was probably unfair, he had only ever really known Lester within the confines of the ARC and the anomaly work... it wasn't even until recently he had seen any other side of his boss. but still... Lester didn't seem like much of the outdoorsy type."
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester couldn't help but smile at that as he worked on the food, "I'm a man of many mysteries Connor, don't want all of my secrets getting out there," he paused, "but I've always enjoyed the outdoors, I spent a lot of summers out here when I was a boy, this was my family's cabin," he said, lost in his childhood memories for a moment before returning to the present.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	It was still a bit odd, even after everything that had happened, for Connor to hear Lester talk so openly about things. But he did have to smile a bit as he imagined what a young Lester would have been like. "That's good... that you have the memories of family to look back on and a place like this to remember and come back to" Connor said with a soft smile. "I don't know what that's like, myself... but I imagine it's nice to have those to fall back on at times."
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester was quiet for a moment as he focused on making his food, “growing up, my father was always tough ….he was a military man, old school, but the time that I got to spend out here, it’s something that I’m glad I can look back on, that I can take my kids out here and that you can spend the time out here as well Connor,” he paused, “ It doesn’t have to just be for this…anytime you want to come out here to get away from things, the cabin is yours as you need,”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Thank... thank you Lester," Connor said a bit surprised as he had not expected that open invitation at all. It was still new to him in so many ways, even after the last few years. He had always felt close to his team back home, but never the way it was with Cutter's team now. To feel that much like he was part of a family, to finally feel like he wasn't alone, even with everything that was going on with Cutter. It was nice. "I... that means a lot. Thank you. I... I might take you up on that offer sometime."
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester smiled as he finished up the meal and brought the plates of food over, “you’re welcome Connor, I’ll have a key made for you whenever you want to come out here,”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor nodded, feeling the lump in his throat keep any words down as he looked over at Lester for a minute. Maybe sometime he would be able to tell him just what that meant, but in the meantime,he hoped Lester knew how grateful he was. "This looks amazing," Connor said finally as he put his attention to the food. "Much better than the pizzas I've been making in that cooking class." But those had been edible and even resembled pizzas most of the time... so that was progress!
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester paused, “please tell me the kitchen is still standing,” remembering the state of his kitchen that one time, he was never going to forget that any time soon. Sorry Connor.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Aye... still standing. And to hear the instructor talk, it sounds like there's seen worse in the class so...." Connor gave a small somewhat sheepish grin. "But don't worry, I wont be making pizza for us anytime soon." He was not going to do that to you twice Lester, don't worry.
Lester(thearcfamily)	“So it’s just my kitchen you like to destroy then,” Lester said but he was smiling as he said, “I’ll make us pizza one day while we’re here,” he promised and then paused, “and if you’d like I’ll teach you,” He hoped he wouldn’t regret this.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"No...no.. the classes are just... kicking in finally, I guess" Connor said somewhat sheepishly as he rubbed the back of his head. But then he smiled at that last bit and smiled. "I... I'd like to learn, if.. if you don't mind. Would be nice to be able to do more than boil water without making a mess of things." And yes there was a grin there at that bit.
Lester(thearcfamily)	"Then we'll see about having a cooking lesson while you're here," Lester smiled at that as he settled down on the couch, "there's no time like the present to learn after all, after you master the basics, it's not that difficult to learn different recipes,"
Connor(anomaly_researxh_nerd)	Connor gave a grin, remembering how good the food Lester always made was, and just reminding himself of that as he took a bite of the food. He smiled even bigger at that and gave a nod as he finished that bite. "I'd like that. It... would be good to know how to cook different things... for the future.' Whatever that would end up looking like, but he was trying to focus on the here and now and the short term goals he had for himself.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester returned that grin and nodded as he took a mouthful of his own food, “it’s a very important skill to have,” he nodded, “I’ve got a couple of recipe books at the apartment I can give you, if you’d like to have a look through them,” he paused, “just try to not burn your flat down “ he looked over at Connor with a despairing look.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"I won't" Connor said as confidently as he could. "Haven't had any close calls so far. Just some... messes... and a few burned dinners... is all." There was a somewhat sheepish grin going along with that as he put his attention back on the food for a moment.
Lester(thearcfamily)	“Well I think that the first thing I’m going to teach is the wonderful technique called clean as you go, it really does wonders with messes,” Lester smiled as he took a few bites of food, “and as for not burning food, well that will just take time and practice,” he said gently
Connor(anomaly_researxh_nerd)	Wait... you were supposed to clean while you cooked? Not just leave it all to the end? "That... makes a lot of sense actually," Connor said with a nod in between bites. "And if I can get even half as good as this," he said taking another bite before continuing, "I will be set for life I think."
Lester(thearcfamily)	Apparently it was supposed to make it easier? "Well, if you work hard at it you could even be as good as me, maybe even better if you really work at it," Lester said with a smile, "but being able to cook will give you the chance to not just eat takeout all the time, I can make recommendations on what ingredients you should have in your kitchen at all times and then you can stock up once you return to Fandom,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"That'd be swell, really," Connor said. "It would be good to be able to eat better... that's one of the things I know I need to work on....along with, well...everything else." Connor dropped his gaze for a moment, his eyes falling to his hand as he flexed it as much as he could, which wasn't much still, and winced at the twinge of pain. It was just one more reminder of everything.... everything he still had to work through and figure out. But he was trying not to focus on that too much. "But getting a bit better at that, sounds like a good place to start."
Lester(thearcfamily)	"Then that's what we'll work on," Lester promised. He watched Connor with concern as he saw the wince, "are you alright," he asked gently, "did you need me to get you anything?"
Connor(anomaly_researxh_nerd)	"I'm fine.... just still cramping and twinging a bit," Connor said. "Probably should take something for it. Been using it more than normal lately... so it's not surprising I guess."
Lester(thearcfamily)	"This is all going to take time," Lester said gently, "I can get you some pain medication to take," he said, still concerned as he looked at Connor, "and a heat pack or an ice pack if you'd like?"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"That would be nice... and a heat pack would probably help," Connor said softly as he stared at his hand for a moment. He was glad it was the left hand... he'd be in really bad shape if it had been his dominant hand. But it was still enough to get in the way and really throw him off when it flared. "Guess the damn thing decided to not take a break for the trip" he said with a dry somewhat forced laugh.
Lester(thearcfamily)	"Unfortunately injuries rarely decide to cooperate with our schedules," Lester said sympathetically as he went to the get pain medication and the heat pack, it took a few moments but it was soon ready and he brought back a bottle of water as well. "There's also a hot tub outside, if you'd like to take advantage of it while you're here, it could be good for your hand as well,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Thanks, Lester" Connor said as he took the pills and water and then got the hot pack situated and gingerly rested his hand on it. "Oh, a hot tub sounds really nice" he said. "Haven't been in one in a long long time." Connor thought for a moment and bit his lip, his mind going to the fact that would mean the protective layers would be stripped away. "I... I might take you up on that" he said softly, stopping himself when he realized he was starting to fiddle with the scarf he was wearing.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester watched Connor, noticing the way he had started to fiddle with the scarf and stopping, he had an idea of what Connor's thought process would be but he didn't want to make Connor anxious or uncomfortable, he did make a note to talk to Connor later, "you have as much time here as you need, there'll be plenty of time to go in the hot tub if you would like to, there's also plenty of other options - hiking, there's a beach you can hike to ... you can get some good photos there, for you scrapbooking assignment," since Cutter's assignment had seemed to go rather well well the scrapbooking, he thought it would be something that Connor would like to try.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Ah yes the good ole scrapbooking assignment. Connor had actually bought a new camera for the trip so it would be a waste to not to use it and get a lot of good photos while he was there. "That all... sounds really good. Thank you Lester for... for all of this."
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester smiled, "you're welcome and if there's anything in particular that you do want to do while you're here, don't hesitate to ask me, this trip is all about you, I'll make sure it happens," he promised.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"If there's any place around here that might be good for... for fossil hunting or something similar, I.... I would like to do that for sure." Connor gave a small smile as he looked over at Lester. "I'm scheduled to start my first class back at Uni soon. Might be a fun thing to do leading up to it.... Since I am taking evolutionary science classes and all."
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester nodded and smiled at that, "that can definitely be arranged, I may not be an expert in fossil hunting, but I've hung around the team long enough to pick up a thing or two, there's quite a few good spots up here ... Ni.." he stopped, he had been about to mention Cutter's name and he wasn't sure if that was a good idea yet, "I've been told the area is quite good for trilobites," Well there wasn't any doubt now about who he was talking about.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor appreciated the effort and gave a small smile at the mention of trilobites. He knew Lester was talking about Nick, and Connor felt better about it than he thought he would. But he still didn't want to dwell on him and Nick and what they had once had- he was trying to get past that and focus on himself and his future. "Think it would be fun. Give me a chance to maybe teach you something for once" Connor said with a small chuckle. Though the image of Lester trying to dig and sift for fossils was quite amusing.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester smiled at that, pleased to hear that chuckle from Connor, "well, if that's what you'd like to do, then consider it done, I'll even be your willing pupil, I would suggest you take advantage of this, you many not get the opportunity again," he warned but there was a warmth to his tone as he said it.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Oh he was definitely going to take advantage of this- photos or it didn't happen! Hope you were prepared, Lester! "Sounds like a plan" Connor said as he finished off the last of the food. "And I promise not to go too hard on ya either."
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester finished off his food as well, "well after the military and dealing with Whitehall, I'm sure I can handle anything that you can throw at me," he grinned. He hoped, he knew very well after dealing with everyone at the ARC that looks could be deceiving.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Sounds good. Thanks Lester," Connor said with a grin. "Looking forward to it." And Connor, too, knew how deceiving looks could be. So he too was hoping he wasn't getting into more than he could handle.
Lester(thearcfamily)	"You're welcome Connor," Lester smiled, "then it's settled, we'll go on some fossil hunting while we're here," he paused, "how about more immediate plans, was there something you'd like to do this evening? I could get us some hot chocolate and marshmallows or make something for dessert if you'd like?"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Hot chocolate and marshmallows sound amazing," Connor said with a grin. "And maybe... for tonight just hanging out here, taking it easy..." Connor's grin went a little sheepish as he looked over at Lester. "I... I haven't been sleeping well lately... so might be good to just relax a bit now before we kick things off?"
Lester(thearcfamily)	“Of course,” Lester said as he picked up their plates and took them to the kitchen, he started to get out what he needed to make the, hot chocolate and marshmallows, a few minutes later he came back with steaming mugs of hot chocolate and marshmallows “we can definitely take it easy tonight,” he assured Connor as he placed the mugs down. He paused, “did you want to talk about it?” he asked gently, “I’m here if you ever do want to talk?”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor gave a small nod as he took the hot chocolate and smiled. He then considered Lester's question for a moment. Talking might be good. Might help. And they didn't have to talk about anything too specific, at least not yet. It might help him relax a bit more. "I.. I'd like that" Connor said after a few minutes. "I think it would help."
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester nodded, "whenever you're ready," he said gently, "you can take your time," he assured him, "and I'm not going anywhere, I'm here for you Connor,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Thanks" Connor said, and he took a few minutes to enjoy the hot chocolate and marshmallows. Then he started talking, he wasn't even sure what all he was going to say. There were things he wanted to talk about with someone and things he felt like he would never be ready to talk about. But he started, started talking about him andNick, how he was strill struggling to adjusting to their new 'friends only' status, and everything going on lately. Connordidnt know what all he ended up saying, he was kindo going on auto pilot at this point.. But at least he was talking and that was the first step and that was what mattered right?
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor had been enjoying the relaxing trip so far, though it still amazed him at times that he was actually there. Lester had made good on his word and Connor had been enjoying the down time and just taking it easy. They had mad a few small outings and had something planned for the next few days. So, Connor figured it was as good a time as any to hit that hot tub for the first time. But it had taken him a while to get ready. That uncertainty, that self-consciousness kicking in as he stood and looked at his reflection in the mirror. The scars on his neck were as visible as ever, and Connor felt his stomach lurch as he stared at his reflection. Finally pulling himself away Connor slowly made his way out towards the sauna. As he went he slipped the towel around his neck, trying to hide the worst of the scars as he did."
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester was relaxing on one of the deck chairs, he wasn't going to get in the hot tub but he was trying to follow example and not do any work while he was on this trip. He had a book with him to read, it had definitely been a while since he had taken the opportunity to just sit back and relax, so really this trip was just as good for him as it was for Connor. He looked up as Connor came over near the sauna, he noticed the way he had positioned his towel and looked sympathetic, "is there anything you'd like me to get you?" he asked gently, not wanting to jump straight into a conversation about Connor's scars if he wasn't ready for it, "there's a mini fridge on the deck, it's got drinks and snacks should you want some,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"I think Im good for now, thanks" Connor smiled and nodded in thanks. He made his way over and slowly stepped in, stopping to sit where he was still mostly out of the water. He couldn't go much deeper without the towel getting into the water, and Connor was trying to work up the nerves to take it off. The water did feel good, and there wasn't much use in going to enjoy it if he was just going to sit with his legs in. So with a slow deep breath, Connor pulled the towel off and laid it on the deck before sliding in and dunking himself all the way under for a minute. "That feels really nice" he said when he finally resurfaced.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester nodded as he watched Connor, “I find the water helps me, when I want to recharge or even just want to get away from everything ,” he said softly, hesitating softly before taking a chance with this next part, “I find it especially soothing with my old wounds as well, sometimes they ache and I find it does help,”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor was silent for a moment, remembering what Lester had told them when they had been staying with him, what seemed like forever ago... about his time with the special ops and his injury. Whether it was subconsciously or not, he couldn't really say, but Connor slowly sank down a little deeper into the water, getting as close to neck deep as he could. It did feel good if he was honest. "There is an Onsen back in Fandom, believe it or not" Connor said softly with a small grin. "I... I might have to start stopping by more often now."
Lester(thearcfamily)	“Honestly I can’t say I’m surprised,” Lester said with a small smile as he watched Connor, “it was my therapist from years ago who actually suggested getting the hot tub, I think it’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made actually,” he admitted.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor gave a somewhat sheepish smile as he looked over at Lester as he spoke. He debated not even saying what he was thinking, worried he might upset Lester or something... but he also wanted to be honest and talk about things. Taking a deep breath, he finally spoke. "I... I kinda keep forgetting that you've done all this too... the whole recovery, physical therapy, and... and everything" he said with an awkward shift as he pulled his gaze away slightly. "I...I think I'm just still used to... boss mode Lester."
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester nodded, “it took a long time to get boss mode Lester,” he said softly as he thought to his own journey, what it had cost him to get there, “for a while I didn’t think I was ever going to be able to recover, it’s … until it happens to you, you don’t realise just how much effort it takes to do the normal everyday things that you took for granted, you feel like giving up at times because its too hard but then … “ his voice trailed off a little, “slowly but surely, you do push through, it’s not easy … and even when you do recover, you’re going to have moments when it feels like you didn’t recover at all, but I can tell you Connor after being through my own journey … it will get better and you have the support behind you to get you through this,” he said gently.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"I just.... I wish it didn’t still feel so real" Connor said with a slight as he pushed himself up to sit on the ledge of the hot tub. "It.... sometimes it still feels like... it was all just yesterday. And when I see...." Connor had to swallow hard to push down the lump he felt forming in his throat. "It.... it's just a reminder of it all, everything comes crashing back on me. It feels like it'll never stop." He gave Lester a small weak, but attempted smile. "I know I wouldn't have made it this far without you all. But... but it still feels like I'll never get better."
Lester(thearcfamily)	“This is all perfectly normal,” Lester said gently, “and it’s only been a few months, all of this is still very raw … you need time to properly grieve and process, you have to take each day as it comes, to have those small victories, sometimes it can be even as small as getting out of bed each morning,” He paused, “It … that was what kept me going, on the good days I could be with my son … there weren’t many of those and that’s something I’m always going to regret but just that drive to be there with him, to do what I could …it helped me through the really dark days,” he said softly.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"I.... I don’t know if Im strong enough to do this... I... I know I should do it, for myself. But... " Connor sighed and shook his head. "I'm scared it wont get better, that I'll never be free of what... what S…Stephen and Helen... did. Of... everything with... Nick" Connor swallowed down a small sob as he said Nick's name. "I don’t know what to do to help myself anymore."
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester listened to Connor talk, knowing all too well what that self doubt was like, whether or not you would ever be yourself again, "you're already taking those steps Connor, you're talking to someone, you're taking time for yourself ... I know it doesn't seem like much but all of these steps will help, " he said gently.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"I... I should be stronger, though. Stronger than this.... I can't even look at myself without feeling I'm right back there... I can't even look at my hand without it feeling like... like" Connor bit his lip, unable to finish, he didn't want to have to say Helen's name. "How can... can I move on when I still see, and feel, and hear so much of it, like its happening all over again?"
Lester(thearcfamily)	"I know it's not the answer you want to hear Connor but it's all going to take time and even then, it's not something that ever goes away," Lester said softly, "I feel the same way when I look at the scar from my bullet wound, all the reminders from that time in my life that I would do anything to be able to forget but I can't ... I had to learn to deal with the pain, to accept that it happened and move on with my life as best as I can," he looked at Connor, "I can only promise that it does get better, you've been through a trauma that should not have happened ... you survived and you're going to continue to survive, it won't be easy but I know you're strong Connor ... you will get through this,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor was silent for a moment as he tried to calm down. When he could speak his voice was soft and quivering slightly but he looked at Lester with as confident a look as he could muster just then. "I know. I have to. Otherwise.... otherwise Helen wins. And I cant... I wont... let her win." He had no idea how he was going to recover from everything, and he didn't know of he could ever even get back a fraction of what Helen and Stephen had taken away. But he knew no matter how hard it was how painful it got he had to try and he had to keep fighting. "I... I just keep hearing her voice... in my head. The promises she made, the offers, the threats. I... I cant help but wonder if... if... things would have been better for Nick... if I had just done what Helen asked. Maybe... maybe he wouldn't have suffered so much. Maybe... maybe I wouldn't have either."
Lester(thearcfamily)	"You can't let yourself be caught up in the 'what if's' Connor, it never does any well," Lester said softly, "believe me, I spent many nights wondering if only I'd verified my sources, been more patient and took time to investigate things, it might have been different ... I might not have gotten shot ... my son might not have gotten sick ..." He sighed, "it's only natural to wonder at the what ifs, if things could have been done differently ... but I can say from experience it only does more harm than good, it's something that you have to process and deal with and try to accept as best you can, that's the only way that you can truly begin to move on,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor nodded slowly as he listened, his good hand reaching up and fiddling with the dog tag that was around his neck, where it had been since the day he and Cutter had come back to Fandom. "I know I have to deal with all this... I have to get better and figure it out. I know things wont be like they were before everything... but I want to get there and figure it out. I want to be here for the team, I want to be better for myself. I'm just scared I cant, that....that Im not strong enough."
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester listened to Connor talk, "you are strong enough Connor, you survived a terrible trauma and the fact you're here, talking to me, proves to me that you are strong and you'll get through this," he said gently, "and myself and the team are with you every step of the way,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Baby steps, right?" Connor said, trying to sound a bit more hopeful than he necessarily felt just then. "I... I know I have a lot to deal with, a lot I have to figure out and get through. But... I do want to be back with the team. When.. when I'm ready of course. But I miss them, I miss being a part of that." Connor felt silly in a way admitting that. He couldn't even get his own feelings figured out and he was still an absolute mess. He had no business even thinking about the team or ever being back in the field. They were better off without him but Connor couldn't deny, that even with everything going in with Cutter, he wanted to be back with the team someday.
Lester(thearcfamily)	"Baby steps, we have to take it one day at a time and we miss you too Connor," Lester said gently, "and there is always a spot waiting for you when you feel ready to come back, you are always going to be a part of this team Connor," he paused, "those dog tags are proof of that," Yes he knew that Becker had given Cutter and Connor dog tags before they'd left for Fandom and he knew how important they were.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor had been looking at the dog tag as he held it, the "Anomaly Research Team Member" engraving making him smile slightly as he listened to what Lester was saying. "Thank you Lester. I... I know it's going to be....a challenge. But...I want this, to be back. And I'll get there eventually. I got the best team in the world behind me after all."
Lester(thearcfamily)	“That you do Connor,” Lester said with a small smile, “and I know you’ll get there, if anyone can make it through this, it’s you … we have your six … always,” he said softly, “it’ll take time but you’re going to get there Connor,”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor nodded slowly and gave a small smile as he looked over at Lester. "Aye, I'll get there" he said, sounding the most confident he had felt in some time. And with that, he slipped back into the hot tub to try and really enjoy it and not let anything else get in the way.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester returned that small smile, pleased to see Connor sound more confident and he watched him carefully to make sure that he was okay before he settled back down in his chair and picked up his book to start reading, glancing over at the hot tub every now and then in case Connor needed him.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor was a bit nervous as the checked and double checked his pack as he waited for Lester to finish getting ready. They had decided the weather looked good today and it would be a good time to go out on that hike and explore around the area a bit. "Should I leave the phone here or take it with us?" he called out to the other room as he put the last few things in the pack. He didnt like the idea of being without it but he also barely had any service out here in the cabin as it was, so it likely wasn't going to be any better out and about in the woods.
Lester(thearcfamily)	"Leave the phone here," Lester said immediately, as much as he had to rely on his phone for his work, sometimes it was better to go to basics, "we're going to have a good old fashioned hike and it's not like there will be any service where we're going," he added. Lester had taken off his jacket but was still wearing his suit and suspenders, which he considered casual but he was fairly confident he could manage a hike in his suit.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor looked at his phone and somewhat reluctantly set it down as he finished getting ready. And once he was he went to meet Lester. "Please tell me you are at least leaving the tie here" he asked with a slight smirk.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester gave Connor a bit of a look at that, “why would I? I’m leaving the jacket behind, that’s more than enough,” he remarked as he adjusted his tie, “besides the tie completes the outfit,” he added. So no, he was not leaving the tie behind. Sorry Connor.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor bit his lip slightly and nodded. He wasn't the best at the whole hiking and outdoorsy stuff, but he was pretty sure a partial suit and tie were not normal hiking attire. Not that he was about to say anything of the sort to Lester. "So I got my backpack ready" he said, trying to change the subject.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester did allow a small grin at Connor’s attempt to change the conversation, “good, you have the map, compass and first aid kit?” He double checked because he knew between the two of them, the odds of needing some kind of first aid was likely inevitable.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Aye" Connor said with a nod and a grin he couldn't keep off his face. Because as out of his element as this all felt, he was looking forward to it. "Got all that and also some food and water bottles to top off the canteens if needed."
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester returned that grin, it was a very small one but a grin all the same, it was good to see Connor looking forward to something, "excellent, I do believe we're ready to go then," he said, "shall we?" he asked, nodding toward the door of the cabin so they could start heading out.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Lead the way" Connor said, letting Lester head out, because he really had no idea where they were going and without his phone or his gear, he wasn't too sure he would be that good at finding his way through the woods. "We got any walking sticks or anything?" he asked as they started off. "Don't you usually have walking sticks on hikes and all?"
Lester(thearcfamily)	“We do,” Lester nodded, “I keep them outside, so we’ll get them as we head out,” he assured Connor as he led them to the front door, sure enough his walking sticks were there and he handed one over to Connor, “here you go, one walking stick as requested,”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Thanks" Connor said as he took it and got a feel for the weight and all. He had no clue what he was checking really but it seemed like something he should be doing before heading out. "Alright, I think we're good to go!" he said with an excited grin.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester smiled as they left the cabin, “I think we’ll head east,” he considered, “follow the trail that way, it leads to the shoreline as well so there’ll be plenty of opportunities for you to take photos,” he paused, “you did pack your cameras?” he was already starting to feel like that they had forgotten something.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Good, good," Lester smiled, nodding as Connor confirmed he had the cameras, "I think we're all good to go then and yes that's right, it will still be fairly warm since we'll be hiking through a bit of forrest but we won't have to worry about the sun as much," He just hoped that they wouldn't have to worry about say getting lost and needing to camp overnight because then they wouldn't be as prepared.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Guess it's a good thing I left the scarf then" Connor said, a brief moment of uncertainty flickering through his mind and then he pushed it down as they headed out. This was supposed to be a fun trip, something for them to enjoy, something Lester was doing for him. And he didn't want to ruin it with those kinds of thoughts. "I did pack my jacket though just in case" he said with a slight shrug as he looked at Lester. He didn't know if that was a good call or not, but it seemed like something he should probably have on hand just in case.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester nodded, watching Connor with concern since he knew how big of a step this all was for him, to not have his scarf, “we will most likely need it at some point as well,” he said, more to reassure Connor that he had nothing to be afraid of, “it can go from hot to cold in an instant out here,”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor nodded, a little reassured by that as he walked along with Lester, following the trail as it led off into the woods. "It really is beautiful out here" he said as he looked around. "I've spent most of my life in London and other cities. Not been out in the woods like this since I was a lad really. Forgot how peaceful it can be. Ya know... when there's no creatures storming through anomalies and all."
Lester(thearcfamily)	“I haven’t been out here as much as I would have liked,” Lester admitted as they walked, “the ARC has kept me pretty busy these last couple of years but I will agree with you how peaceful it is when we don’t have to deal with any anomalies or prehistoric creatures,” he said with a small smile.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"It's nice to be able to just relax... and enjoy things again" Connor said as they walked. "I... I miss being able to do things like this. I really miss the team and being out in the field and working with the anomalies. But... I..." Connor hesitated a moment as they made their way down the trail. "I don't know if that's ever going to be possible again... after everything and... and that scares me. I know most people would say Im crazy to miss it, but I do.. a lot."
Lester(thearcfamily)	“You are always going to have a place on this team Connor,” Lester said gently as they walked, “you can take as much time with your decision and we’ll be there to support you “ he paused, “I know what it’s like …being caught in the crossroads of a career change, I still miss the military and my special ops work,” he admitted.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"How... how did you do it? Get through that? How did you know what was the right decision to make?" Connor asked, his gaze drifting down to the trail as he watched his feet move along the forest path. "How can I ever know what the right choice is anymore?"
Lester(thearcfamily)	“I haven’t been out here as much as I would have liked,” Lester admitted as they walked, “the ARC has kept me pretty busy these last couple of years but I will agree with you how peaceful it is when we don’t have to deal with any anomalies or prehistoric creatures,” he said with a small smile.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"How... how did you do it? Get through that? How did you know what was the right decision to make?" Connor asked, his gaze drifting down to the trail as he watched his feet move along the forest path. "How can I ever know what the right choice is anymore?"
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester was quiet for a moment as they walked, as he tried to form an answer, "I know it's not the answer you want to hear Connor but it was one of the hardest decisions I had to make, it was at one of the lowest points in my life and I was trying to rebuild it as best I could ... all I could do was push through otherwise ..." his voice trailed off for a moment, "I had connections in Whitehall, they encouraged me to apply for a job with the government and I didn't see any other viable career path, not without going to university and starting from scratch ... I don't regret for a moment going with the government job ... the opportunities I've had as a result ... well It wouldn't have been the same if I'd been in the military, only you can know what the right choice is Connor and that will take time," he said gently.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"I... I've been looking at going back to Uni, finishing up the degree I had been working on before... I met Nick and... and joined the team" Connor said softly. "I... I want to finish it and then maybe see what... what I want to do." Connor lifted his gaze and looked at Lester as he continued. "I...could keep working with the ARC in some way possibly still, or... try something else for a bit. But I think finishing up what I started at Uni is something I need to do."
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester nodded, “you can keep working at the ARC for as long as you like, we’ll support you in whatever choice you make,” he assured Connor, “including with uni work, if you need any help we’ll provide it, money or educational support …whatever you need.” he said gently.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Thank you, Lester. I will... let you know" Connor said with a soft smile. He knew Cutter had made the same offer and maybe... someday... he would be in a place where he could accept some of that help. But for now.... Connor shook his head and swallowed hard, trying to push everything down a bit as he reached up and grabbed the dog tag hanging around his neck. "I'll figure out how to get this done and then see where things lead after that!"
Lester(thearcfamily)	“And sometimes that’s all we can do,” Lester said gently, “see where things go, take it one day at a time, I know you’ll figure this out Connor, you’ve got a good head on your shoulders and you’ll make it through this,” he assured him.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor nodded as they walked on, He felt the light thud of the dog tags as he walked and he smiled softly, reminding himself he would always have a team and family. He just silently hoped that one day, Nick might be there as well. He walked on in silence for a bit, just letting things process for a bit before he managed to push those thoughts aside for another time and pulled his attention back to where it needed to be, the hike and just enjoying the time right there, right now.
Lester(thearcfamily)	And Lester let Connor have those few minutes of silence, knowing what it was like to go through that process … to be so unsure of your future. He kept a close eye on Connor as they walked, waiting til he felt comfortable enough to talk again if that was what he wished.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor stayed quiet for a bit, then seemed to shake himself out of it and looked around, his gaze going back to Lester as he came to a stop and looked back down at the ground right in front of him. "Hey Lester... ummmm... are there wolves or anything in these woods? I think... i found some tracks...." he glanced up at Lester and then back to the very dog like prints in the dirt of the trail. They could be dogs... he was trying to remind himself of that.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester looked at the ground where Connor was looking, “as far as I’m aware there’s no wolves here, the most you’re likely to run into are ponies and cattle, donkeys and the occasional lizard,” It would be just their luck that an anomaly would open up around here wouldn’t it?
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Probably just a dog then" he said with what he hoped was a confident nod. "Nothing to worry about." Connor gripped the walking stick in his hand a little tighter as he looked at the prints again. He then glanced at the stick in his hand and gave a small grin as he lifted it slightly and gave it a somewhat awkward spin. "And if it is a wolf or anything, I'll protect us!" he said, giving a couple of swing swings with it before trying to spin the stick around like a light saber of some kind. But as he did, Connor got a little carried away and gave it a spin and tried to grab it with his injured hand, which went about as well as could be expected. "Ouch! Son of a...."he groaned as the stick spun around and caught him on the side of his face.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester really should have seen that one coming. “Good thing we brought the first aid kit,” he sighed, “maybe next time we not try to recreate a scene from Space Battles with our walking sticks?” he said sternly but his voice was still gentle, “are you alright?” he asked, concerned that Connor may have seriously injured himself.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor nodded as he rubbed his head and sighed. "Yeah... s-sorry." He gave himself a minute to figure out what was what. "I.. I think Im ok..." Connor winced a little as he touched his cheek, the sting there letting him know he had definitely gotten himself. The little bit of blood on his fingers further confirming this. "Think it's just a scratch, though... nothing too bad."
Lester(thearcfamily)	“Well we’ll still clean it up okay?” Lester said gently, “it might be just a scratch but we don’t want to take any chances it could get infected, we’ll clean it up before we go any further okay? Actually it’s probably not a bad spot to stop and rest for a moment,” he considered.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor nodded as he slipped his pack off and, CAREFULLY, set the walking stick down as he looked at Lester a bit sheepishly. He looked around and found a log to sit on as he fished around in the pack for the first aid kit. "Sorry about that Lester. Some brave warrior I am huh?" he said with a small laugh.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester sat down on the log next to Connor, so he could start administering first aid, “I suppose I can’t blame you for trying,” he said gently, “you were pretty good up until you did hit yourself,”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Well, considering the number of conventions I have been to and how many LARPS I've been a part of... Its good to know I haven't fully lost my touch" Connor said trying not to wince too much at the stinging now that the feeling was starting to come back after the whack.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester carefully took the first aid kit and started to clean up the wound with an alcoholic pad, “this may stings little,” he warned Connor as he went to apply the pad. “You know I’ve never actually been to a convention,” he remarked as he tried to keep Connor distracted, “plenty of conferences but no conventions,”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor winced a little but he wasn't going to make a big fuss over a scratch. He did look at Lester and tilted his head to the side a bit at that. "Most of the conventions, at least the ones I have been to, are basically geek or nerd conferences. There are workshops, talks, vendors, and special events and games... its really cool. Oh, and a lot of people like to dress up too!"
Lester(thearcfamily)	“I’ll have to take your word for it,” Lester smiled as he continued to gently clean the cut, “my eldest is really into comic books though, she may enjoy going to a convention,” he considered thoughtfully.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Well if she wants any recommendations for comic series or conventions, I could always give a few." That was a comforting thought right Lester? Connor influencing your kid?
Lester(thearcfamily)	“She would like that, she loves all the superheroes comics …I don’t quite understand it, there’s too many teams to keep track of,” Lester was trying not to think too hard about Connor encouraging his kid like that but well it wasn’t like he was versed enough to make recommendations of his own.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"There are a lot of teams, that is very true" Connor said with a grin. He would have also been nodding but he was trying to hold still for Lester. "If she hasn't discovered them yet, I definitely recommend the meta for X-Men comics."
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester carefully finished with cleaning the cut and then he got the antiseptic powder so he could apply, being careful to not get it in Connor's eyes so he was definitely glad that Connor was restraining himself with the head movement, "I'm not sure if she's discovered those ones, I think she's watched those movies that have come out, her favourite superhero is meta for Wonder Woman, she loves those comics and that old TV show," he said with a fond smile as he talked about his daughter's hobbies.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor found himself grinning despite the annoying sting as Lester worked. It was nice to hear him talk... about something other than anomalies, government red tape, or how annoyed he was at the latest incursion fiasco. It was also nice to not be getting the lecture and eye roll that Connor had become quite used to since he had joined the team. "Oh the old superhero shows are some of the best. The new shows and movies are good but the classics... they never get old!" Connor said with a grin. "Though I must say, times like this makes me really wish I had meta for Wolverine's healing ability!"
Lester(thearcfamily)	Once the powder was carefully applied, Lester began to work on bandaging the cut, "there are times I definitely wouldn't have minded meta forWonder Woman's bulletproof bracelets," he remarked, "I mean, I don't understand how half of this superhero stuff works really with all the different powers, it makes Rosemary happy though, so I'm happy she's found something that she enjoys,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Oh there are so many powers and abilities! Some are really cool like healing or being able to teleport, and some are kinda silly and ridiculous. But they are a lot of fun to read and they usually have really good stories and adventures to read! And Rosemary sounds like a really cool kid" Connor said with a fond smile.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester smiled fondly at that, "she is, I mean I know I'm biased as her father but she's an incredible kid, too stubborn for her own good, even though between her parents, she doesn't stand much of a chance in that regard," He finished bandaging the cut, "there we go, that should heal nicely now, just try to refrain from any recreating any Space Battles scenes in future," he said gently.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor gave a sheepish nod when Lester finished. "I... yeah, no more reenactments. Promise. And umm.. thanks for patching me up, Lester."
Lester(thearcfamily)	"You're welcome," Lester gave a small smile as he put away the first aid kit, "do you feel up to hiking again or did you want to rest for a few more moments?" he asked gently.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Naw, I'm good. We can get back to the hike if ya want" Connor said with a nod.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester nodded, "very well, then we'll stay with the same path as we were continuing on?" he checked to make sure Connor was okay with that plan.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Sounds good to me. Gotta get some more pics for sure before we start heading back!" Connor confirmed with a nod. "And ummm... thanks again, for all this, Lester" he said with a sincere smile.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester smiled softly at that, “you’re welcome and yes, I do believe that was one of the requirements for going on this trip, taking as many photos as we can, we can hike up a bit further and there’s a good vantage point - the view is quite spectacular,”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Perfect" Connor replied, picking up his walking stick again, and keeping it just that, a walking stick, and held a hand out to help Lester up.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester smiled at that and for once reached out and took Connor’s hand to stand up, brushing off his suit for a few leaves that had gotten stuck there and he picked up his own walking stick. “Shall we?” he said as he nodded to the path that they had been walking on.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Aye" Connor said as he grabbed his pack and slipped it on and then started following Lester along the trail as it climbed higher up the mountain. And as they walked, Connor found himself feeling the most relaxed and happy that he had been in some time. This... this trip with Lester... it was better than he could have imagined. And when they got to where they were going, and got that fossil hunt under their belts, it would be even better.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester smiled as they continued to walk, every now and then he glanced back at Connor and was pleased to see him looking really happy and rather relaxed as well. He was pleased that this trip seemed to be doing him some good and that there were already quite a lot of positive changes that had been happening.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor stood at the entrance to the kitchen and hesitated. He watched Lester as he got things together and despite their talk about doing this at some point, Connor still wasnt sure. He hadn't had good luck with this sort of thing before.... "Are... are you sure about this, Lester?" he asked, the uncertainty obvious on his face.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester nodded as he got the last of the ingredients that was needed for making pizza, "I am sure," he said as confidently as he could manage because there was a slight doubt that they could get through without incident but he was determined to succeed, "I said I was going to teach you how to cook Connor and you are going to cook," He really, really hoped so anyway.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Ok... I... I want to learn how to do this. Thanks" Connor said as he took a tentative step into the kitchen. Nothing exploded or caught fire so that was progress right? "So. Pizza. Where do we start?"
Lester(thearcfamily)	It was a very good first step. Lester would appreciate his kitchen not catching fire. “We’re going to start with making the dough,” Lester told him, “that’s the best way to eat homemade pizza, but before we begin to prepare it, we wash our hands,” Lester said as he went to the sink and gave his hands a thorough wash.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Right... first step" Connor said as he stepped up when Lester had finished. He spent a good bit of time making sure his hands were good and clean. "Ok, hands washed" he said with a grin.
Lester(thearcfamily)	“That’s good,” Lester said with a smile, “now, to start with I have all the ingredients we need for the dough laid out here, so yeast, water, flour, oil, salt, sugar and cornmeal … we don’t mix the cornmeal in with the other ingredients, it’s used for dusting the pizza pan,” he explained, “now, we take all of these ingredients with the exact measurements,” and he briefly went over how much was used in what, and then he got the bowl, “then we put them in the bowl like so and now we mix them,” he looked at Connor, “do you think you’d be able to mix the bowl without spilling ingredients everywhere?”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor followed along and tried to take mental note of anything that sounded important to remember later. Then he considered Lester's question. "I... I can do that. I'll try not to make a mess" he said somewhat sheepishly. That was a very BIG ask there Lester.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester knew that he was taking a chance here but he liked to think that something as simple as mixing ingredients wouldn't lead to making a massive mass. "Okay," Lester nodded and handed the bowl and spoon over to Connor, "I'll leave this is in your capable hands," He really hoped that he wasn't going to regret this.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor nodded and started mixing everything together. And he tried to be as careful as he could. And he did a good job, save for a little flour that got kicked up at the start, which ended up more on his shirt than the kitchen floor or anything.... so that was good, right?
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester watched Connor mix the ingredients, slightly apprehensively and then relaxed a little as the mess he had been fearing didn’t eventuate. “Okay, that’s good, you mix the ingredients in well and then we’ll knead the dough,” This part he was a bit more worried about.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Knead the dough..." Connor looked at the bowl for a moment up to Lester and looked a bit sheepish. He had heard the phrase before, but had no idea what it meant. "So ummm.... hows do you do that?"
Lester(thearcfamily)	“It’s not that difficult to learn,” Lester said gently, “there are a couple of ways to do this and you can use a mixer but I prefer to do this by hand,” He carefully took out the mix and placed it on the board, “and to knead it, you use your hands to form the shape of the dough,” and he began to demonstrate with his hands, “do you think your ready to try it?” he asked Connor gently.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor watched closely and gave a slow, somewhat hesitant nod as he looked down at his hands. He was out of all braces and wraps and the doctors said his hand was as heald as it would get, that it was all just about building up strength and seeing what he would be able to do with it. "Yeah... I-I would like to try" Connor said softly as he looked up at Lester and then back down to his hands as he stepped over.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester nodded, “if at any point you would like to stop, you can,” he says gently, seeing Connor look down at his hands, “when you want me to take over just let me know,”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor nodded and carefully got started working the dough. It felt weird, sticky, but it also felt good in a way as he started working it together on the board. He found himself smiling a little as he worked, even the ache in his hand didn't seem too bad as he worked. "This isn't too bad..." he said glancing up at Lester before putting his attention back to the dough. "I... it's kinda fun..." he said with a small grin.
Lester(thearcfamily)	"It takes some getting used to, especially trying to get the right consistency but it gets better with practice," Lester assured him gently, pleased to see that Connor seemed to like it, "I find that nothing beats homemade pizza dough, I've always preferred making it to buying it in the takeaway shops,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"I definitely wouldn't mind being able to make pizza whenever I want some" Connor said, because of course he was thinking with his stomach again. He focused on kneading a little more, waiting for Lester to tell him it was ready for the next part. He couldn't help but notice one thing about the dough as he worked. "It smells really good" he said with a grin.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester smiled at that as he watched, “I’ll make a chef out of you yet Connor,” he said as he watched Connor continue to knead the dough, “the smell of homemade dough is one of my favourites, well that and pastries,” he admitted, “I think we’re ready for the next step now, which is to let the dough rise,”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor smiled at that... he did want to get better at cooking at least a few things if he could. "Ah ok, I thought it seemed a little... dense I guess you would call it" Connor said as he shaped the dough back into a good shape. "When it rises it gets softer? right?" He was pretty sure that wasn't the right term but he didn't know what it was honestly.
Lester(thearcfamily)	“That’s right, it will get softer as it rises,” Lester nodded, “This next step takes at least 90 minutes to complete, so we put the dough in a greased bowl,” he nodded to the bowl, “and then put it in the refrigerator,” he explained.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Hummmm... homemade pizza takes a lot longer than delivery" Connor said with a smirk that turned into a grin as he looked at Lester. "But I know it will taste so much better!" he added as he picked up the bowl and headed for the refrigerator.
Lester(thearcfamily)	“It does take more prep work but the hard work will pay off and the taste will be even more rewarding,” Lester smiled, “in the meantime, we can work on cleaning up and getting prepared for the next stage while we wait,”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Ah, right... The whole clean as you go thing" Connor said with a nod. "Should have plenty of time."
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester nodded as he filled the sink up with warm soapy water, “it will also mean we won’t have a big mess at the end of it when the pizza is cooked,” he added, “and we can also start cutting up the toppings for the pizza once we’ve cleaned up this initial space,”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor nodded with a smile as he started carrying things over to the sink and started washing them up. "I will definitely have to do some shopping when I... I get back to Fandom" Connor said, going quite for a moment at mentioning home again. "I definitely don't have anything to make pizza with back at the flat!"
Lester(thearcfamily)	"I'll make sure you have both the recipe and the list of ingredients for you, so you know what to stock up on," Lester promised as he took over everything else that was left on the bench so that they were ready to be washed up and then he started to wash over the bench so he could prepare to get the toppings cut up, "plus some additional produce that you should have on hand in your kitchen as well,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor couldn't help but smirk slightly as he nodded and looked over at Lester. "Gonna be odd... in a good way... to have something other than ramen and hot dogs at the flat. Thanks. I.... I am enjoying this more than I thought I would honestly."
Lester(thearcfamily)	It took a lot of self control for Lester to not shudder at the food that Connor was mentioning, “well they do say that variety is the spice of life,” he said with a smile, “and having a few healthy homemade options is never a bad thing,” he said gently.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Aye. Better late than never right?" Connor said as he washed up some more of the bowls and such and set them over for Lester to dry and put away. He knew the effort it must have taken for Lester to allow him to try and cook in his kitchen again. Connor didn't want to push hi luck any more than he already was!
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester smiled at that, picking up the hand towel, to start drying the dishes so they could move onto the next part of their cooking, “it really does make all the difference being able to cook,” he said, “and …” he added rather pointedly, “it also helps when you don’t destroy a kitchen in the process,”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Yeah... I can see that now...." Connor glanced up at Lester with an apologetic smirk. "Sorry again about your flat and all. Ummmm.... I'm glad you didn't totally give up on me with this. I was pretty much resigning myself to living like a college student for the rest of my life at the rate I was going."
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester's smile softened, "and I'm sorry for how I initially reacted, it's not my proudest moment," he admitted, "but I do think anyone can learn to cook and if I can teach you to cook at least one recipe that's not a microwave meal, well I think we'll have made very good progress,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Hey not your fault... we made quite a mess of it all" Connor said sheepishly and then chuckled at that last part. "Guess there is hope for me yet!" he said as he finished up the last of the dirty dishes.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester smiled at that, “well, I think we’re making very good progress on the cleaning front, so I think you’re doing very well,” he told him as he dried up the last of the dishes and put them back in the cupboards.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor beamed a little at that and grabbed the towel and dried off the sink and counter once they were done. As he did a flash of a memory popped into his mind- of him and Cutter cleaning up the disaster that was his attempt at breakfast. Connor smiled softly and then pushed the memory aside before he could dwell on it too much. It was a lot different, hanging out with Lester and Becker and everyone. But it was nice. It was nice in a way to know he could still do things with the team, even with things the way they were with him and Nick. He then shook his head slightly to shake himself out of the daydream and he turned to look at Lester. "So on to prep-work. What kind of pizza are we making anyways?"
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester watched as Connor finished off wiping down the bench, “I thought we could do a supreme pizza, plenty of good meat and vegetable toppings that we can use in that,” he explained.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Sounds good to me!" Connor replied. "I like pretty much everything on a pizza, except for sardines," he said with a small shudder. And yes that meant even pineapple, but he thought that might be a confession better left unsaid.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester suppressed a shudder at the mention of sardines, “I will agree with you on that, sardines do not belong on pizza,” he said, “you will be pleased to know that this pizza will be sardine free,” He wouldn’t have been that surprised to know about Connor liking pineapple on pizza, he knew a certain Professor also happened to like pineapple on pizza.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Funny how certain things kinda rubbed off on ya over time. Mushrooms and sausage were still a favorite, but pineapple had definitely become a top choice for Connor over the years. "So, we should start getting the toppings ready... washing the vegetable first?" Connor asked, pretty sure that was the way to start things off.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester nodded, “that’s right,” he said, pleased at how well Connor was going with this lesson, “so the veggies we’ll be using are bell peppers, black olives and red onion,” he started to get out the veggies they’d be using.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Sounds good. Missing the mushrooms but I think I will allow it" Connor said with a smirk. "Alright, I'll get these rinsed off then." See, he could do things without a mess... sometimes.
Lester(thearcfamily)	“Well I do have mushrooms, we can add it to the pizza if you would like?” Lester smiled as he went to get the mushrooms so they could be rinsed.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Would be cool if we could..." Connor gave a small shrug. "Thanks. So... just give them all a rinse right?"
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester smiled, “that’s right, they will only need a light rinse and then we can cut them up for the pizza, it won’t take much to get them ready,”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Sounds good, we... we got this" Connor said as he glanced down at his hand. "I... I think you better do the chopping for this" he said with a somewhat sad shrug as he lifted his hand.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester nodded, “I can do the chopping,” he said gently, “did you want to get the meats out so we can get those ready next? There’s bacon and pepperoni in the fridge,”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Sure... I can do that" Connor nodded and headed to check the fridge and came back a minute or two later with the bacon and pepperoni." Alright got them."
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester smiled, “good, I’ll finish chopping up the vegetables and then we can get started on preparing the meats and by then the dough should be ready,”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Should I go check on the dough and see how it is doing in the meantime?" What? Him? Excited about making Pizza? Ok yeah.. yeah he was really excited to get to the next part.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester smiled, “I think it should be ready to check,” he said, “I’ll finish off cutting up the meats and you can see see how well the dough is rising,”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor nodded and went to take a look at the bowl. He came back a minute later with a grin. "Ok so the dough is about this far above the edge of the bowl now" he said holding his hands out to show Lester.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester smiled at how Connor described the dough, “I think we can leave it in a few more minutes and then we can move to the next part of cooking our pizza,”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Sounds good. Can't wait to actually be able to eat this" Connor said with a grin. He was eggar to see how it turned out but he was also finding himself really enjoying this process too!
Lester(thearcfamily)	“Well, it should be an amazing pizza by the time we’re through with this,” Lester smiled as he finished off cutting up the meat, he waited a few more moments, “okay, I think we’re ready to move on with the next step,”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"So, there is a way to make that dough look less blob-shaped and more pizza-shaped right?" Connor asked with a smirk.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester smiled, “you’ll be pleased to know there is, the next step is called punch and shape, we have to punch down the dough to get rid of the air bubbles, split it in two and then we roll it out so we get the pizza shape, do you think that would be something you could do?” he asked Connor gently.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Sure, I think I can manage that" Connor said as he went to get the dough. And when he returned a minute later, he carefully divided the dough and started working on beating it gently into shape. "It's still a little sticky" he said with a slight laugh.
Lester(thearcfamily)	“It doesn’t really lose its stickiness until it gets in the oven unfortunately,” Lester smiled as he watched Connor with the dough, “but once the dough is rolled, we’ll be able to put all our toppings on it,”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"We can use a little flour right, to keep it from sticking too bad?" Connor took half the dough and got it onto the workspace to start trying to roll it out thin enough.
Lester(thearcfamily)	“If you promise to only use a little flour,” Lester was really hoping that he wasn’t tempting fate when they were so close to having the pizza ready and his kitchen was still intact.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Just a little. Promise," Connor said with a nod. He carefully sprinkled a little flour out and started rolling out the dough. It took some work but he got it into a mostly circular shape and hopefully even enough thickness to not be totally ruined.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester watched Connor roll out the dough, “that’s very good Connor,” he said approvingly with a smile, “I think we’re now ready to start putting the paste and the toppings on it,”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor gave a proud smile at that and nodded. "The best part for sure, the toppings!" Connor knew he was going to have to have some restraint and not overload the pizza with toppings like he was very tempted to.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester smiled, pleased to see Connor look so excited about the toppings, “so we’ll put the paste on first,” he indicated the mix that he had for the base do that it could be applied, “do you think you could spread it over the dough?”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Yeah I... I think I can do that" Connor said as he put a little bit of the paste and stated spreading it over the pizza, adding a little more as he went, trying to get tit spread as evenly as he could. "Hows that?" he asked with a grin.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester smiled, “perfect and next we’ll add a good amount of cheese so that we can get a good consistency with it, would you like to add the cheese to the base?”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Couple handfuls should do it?" Connor asked as he started putting down some of the cheese. "I like a lot of cheese on my pizzas" Connor admitted with a grin.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester nodded, “a couple of handfuls will be plenty for the base and then we can spread another handful once the meat and veggies are on,”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor nodded as he sprinkled some of the cheese over the pizza and then nodded toward the rest of the toppings. "This is already looking amazing" he said as he started putting down some of the meat and veggies. His stomach might have even started growling a bit at that point.
Lester(thearcfamily)	“It will be even more incredible once it’s in the oven and finished,” Lester promised, “and then you’ll have successfully made a pizza,” he smiled.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	""Still find it hard to believe I'm actually doing this" Connor said with a smirk. It was more the fact he was doing this without utterly destroying the kitchen again that was hard to believe, but he wasn't going to say that out loud.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester smiled, “once you get the hang of making a pizza, you’ll be able to apply this to any recipe, it’s just a matter of practicing,”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Practice without destroying the kitchen in the process," Connor confirmed because that was an important distinction for him, really LOL. And after a few more minutes, toppings were on, including extra chases and Connor looked up at Lester with a smile. "I think we're ready for the oven now!"
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester paused, “that too,” he allowed with a small smile, “but barring any incidents with the oven…” he really hoped he wasn’t getting ahead of himself here, he looked at the pizza and nodded, “I think we’re ready to put in the oven, would you care to do the honours?” he asked, nodding at the oven, that had totally been been pre heating while they prepared the pizza. “We only need to cook it for fifteen minutes,
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor bit his lit slightly as he looked from the pizzas to the oven and gave a small nod. "Fifteen isn't too long?" he asked. "I... I tend to end up burning everything I've tried to do int he over so...." And that was totally not at all (totally was) because he never bothered to actually set a timer and usually lost track of time till things started to smoke a little.
Lester(thearcfamily)	“Fifteen is generally the recommended time for a pizza,” Lester nodded, “we can check on the pizza though on a regular basis to make sure that it’s cooking nicely and that it won’t burn,”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"That... might be good. I...I just don't want to mess this up ya know... this close to actually being successful."
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester smiled, “you’ve done a really good job on this Connor, the cooking part can be challenging but if we put the timer and keep an eye on it, between the two of us, we’ll have a perfect homemade pizza,”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Aye, let's do this" Connor said after the pizzas were in. He checked and double-checked the time to make sure he set it correctly and then looked back over at Lester. "So, I guess we use this time to clean things up some eh?" he asked with a small knowing smile.
Lester(thearcfamily)	“That’s right,” Lester smiled, pleased that Connor seemed to have caught on with these tasks, “if you want to take care of the last of the dishes and utensils and wash them up, I’ll wipe down the benches and then we’ll be ready for the pizza,”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor nodded and gathered up everything and got them soaking as he started cleaning them up. "It actually feels kinda nice... hand doesn't hurt as much and the hot water feels good" Connor said with a soft smile as he worked. "Never would have thought of that, really."
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester smiled softly at that, “hot waters and gentle movements does wonders for injuries,” he said gently, “it’s why I’ve always enjoyed cooking, when I was recovering, I found it really helped me,”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Might have found a new hobby... " Connor said with a smile. "It is really relaxing, ya know, when not dealing with a huge mess or the smoke alarm going off" he added with a chuckle.
Lester(thearcfamily)	“It definitely makes all the difference doesn’t it?” Lester smiled as he finished wiping down the bench, he checked the oven to see how the pizza was going, “the pizza’s coming along really well,” he noted.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Well it smells amazing... can't wait to see how it turned out!" Connor grinned as he set the last of the dishes aside to finish drying. "I can get the plates and all out if you'd like?"
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester smiled, pleased to see Connor look so excited about the pizza, “okay that can be your official task and then I’ll cut up the pizza once it’s ready, how does that sound?“
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Alright," Connor said. "Sounds good. Plates are up here right?" he said pointing to the cabinet where he thought he remembered seeing them.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester nodded, “that’s right,” he said, “do you need help reaching the plates?” he asked gently.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"I... yeah I do..." Connor said softly with a slightly apologetic shrug. He did want to ruin the good progress right here at the end.
Lester(thearcfamily)	“Lester nodded and reached over to the cupboards, getting out two plates for them and brought them down onto the bench, “there we are,” he said gently, “the glasses are in the corner cabinet,” he nodded over at the bottom cabinet near Connor.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	”Thanks" Connor said softly and then got the glasses out and carefully took them and the plates over to the table. "What do you want to drink with it?" Connor really had no idea what Lester would want as his drink of choice with pizza was usually soda or beer, and somehow he figure neither one would be Lester's first choice.
Lester(thearcfamily)	“I do have juice in the fridge or wine if you prefer,” Lester offered, since Connor’s assumptions on his drink of choice were correct …he definitely preferred a wine over a beer. “Or if you would rather just cold water?”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Water would be fine" Connor said with a nod. Juice didn't sound all that good with pizza, and he had never been a big fan of wine really.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester nodded as he got out a jug of cold water and placed it on the bench, as he did the timer on the oven went off and he turned it off and picked up the oven mitts, “looks like the pizza is ready,”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Connor grinned broadly at that. They had managed to get through without the smoke alarm going off. That was a big step for him really! "Awesome! I'm dying to see how it turned out!" Connor said as he took the water jug carefully over to the table.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester smiled as he opened the oven and he got a waft of the smell of the pizza, "well it definitely smells alright. which is always a good sign," he said as he took out the pizza and put it on the board on the bench, "here we are, I think this turned out wonderful, you should feel very proud of this, you did an excellent job,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Thanks! I... I am. It feels good to be able to do something like this successfully". Connor grinned as he looked over at Lester. "Course, I had a very good and patient (Lester? Patient?) teacher. So I'm sure that helped a lot too!"
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester smiled warmly, "I was very happy to teach you Connor, you'll be able to cook all the meals that you want now that you've gotten started," there was a pause, "also thank you for not ruining my kitchen this time either," he couldn't help but add.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Aye. Glad we were successful in that too" Connor said with a shy grin. "Maybe if you come to Fandom sometime I can cook something new for you to try!"
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester smiled as he began to cut up the pizza, “you know, I think I’ll take you up on that, see what you’ve managed to learn from this cooking lesson,”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Going and giving myself homework," Connor considered with a small laugh. "At least it is tasty homework! And it will be fun to see what other things I can figure out." And hopefully, start breaking that trend of eating burnt dinners on the regular. "I can tray and make something special for you or Ni....for the team if you guys come to visit sometime," Connor said with a soft smile, trying to ignore that ache at thinking about Cutter just then.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester smiled softly, “I would like that, I would love to see what you come with and I do have a few recipe books here I can give you to take back to Fandom with you if you’d like?” he offered.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Oh that would be great, thanks. Would give some place to start and see what works and what doesn't" Connor said with a grin as he looked at the pizza. "Hopefully I can repeat the success we had here!"
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester smiled, “then I’ll give you the recipe books and you can surprise me the next time I visit Fandom,” he told Connor as he gave him his plate with his pizza slices, “you’re on your way to becoming a chef now,” he added warmly.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor beamed at that as he sat down and took a bite of the pizza. "Oh wow" he said, remembering that talking with a mouthful of food wasn't the best. "That turned out really good," he said once he had finished the first bite. "Guess... guess I have no excuse now to resort to frozen dinners huh?"
Lester(thearcfamily)	“Frozen dinners should only ever be a last resort,” Lester smiled, pleased with Connor’s reaction as he took a careful bite of the pizza, “nothing beats a homemade cooked meal, and once you get the hang of it well … the world is your oyster,”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor made a small face at the mention of oysters but he laughed and nodded as he took some time to enjoy the pizza and what he had managed to do. This had been a lot better than he had thought it would be... and maybe Lester was right. Maybe he could actually do this and be successful at it.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester couldn't help but smile at the expression Connor made just then and then he settled down to enjoy the pizza as well, he was pleased to see how well Connor was doing and that this trip was exactly what they both had needed.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Thank you, Lester. This... this was what I needed, I think, all of it."
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester smiled, "you're welcome Connor and my earlier offer still stands, if you want to ever come out here to the cabin, you're welcome to do so, I'll get you a key before you head back to Fandom,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	”I… I'd like that. Thank you Lester." It didn't seem nearly enough but it was all Connor could think of to say. He just hoped Lester knew how much it all had meant to him. "Thank you for all of this."
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester smiled, "you're welcome Connor," he said gently, "I was happy to do this for you, you deserved this trip away,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor was really hoping he was not pushing his luck. He had managed to make an entire pizza on his own without trashing Lester's kitchen or setting off the smoke alarm. That was already pushing miracle level territory. But this was their last night at the cabin. Tomorrow they were heading back to the ARC and the team. It had been an amazing trip and Connor was grateful for everything Lester had done. So, he had offered to cook dinner for them. On his own. And to his surprise, Lester had agreed. So Connor was in the kitchen getting things ready and trying not to chicken out of this. He could do this. He had already made Pizza. How hard could spaghetti be?
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester sat down at the bench as he watched Connor get everything set up, even though Connor had said he wanted to do this on his own, but he wanted Connor to know that he was there to help him if he needed or even if he just wanted to talk while he prepared. "Are you certain you want to do this on your own? I'm here if you change your mind," he said gently.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor was grateful for the company and he looked up from the pot of water he had just put on the stove and looked over at Lester. "I... I do want to do this myself... at least, I want to try to" he said with a small grin. He was nervous about it, but he also knew this was something he wanted to do if he could. And Lester was there so if he really needed help he would have it. "But thanks for sticking around, Lester," he said with a sincere smile as he turned the stove on so he could start cooking them dinner.
Lester(thearcfamily)	"I've got a couple of Chinese recipes that should be a good one for you to try," Lester told him with a smile, pleased to hear Connor laughing at that, "I think Nick would definitely like those ones,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Awesome. That would be good to have and..." Connor trailed off as he started cooking up the ground beef for the sauce. "I just realized," he said looking up at Lester as he bit his lip slightly. "The recipe I’m using says to use canned sauce... Is... is that going to be ok? I don't know how to actually make spaghetti sauce," Connor said, sounding a little worried. He didn't want to seem like he was taking the easy way with the cooking, but he was pretty sure homemade sauce was a bit out of his league just then.
Lester(thearcfamily)	"That's more than alright Connor," Lester said gently, "it takes time to work towards these things and starting off small is the way to go," he told him, "I'm looking forward to seeing what you come with," Especially if he could make it two meals in a row where his kitchen didn't end up getting destroyed.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor nodded and then continued working on the ground beef and also got the water starting to boil for the spaghetti itself. "Sauces and such are pretty hard to do aren’t they?" he asked as he looked at the recipe he had and got the seasoning he needed for the meat ready to add as it finished cooking. "They take a long time to cook up right?"
Lester(thearcfamily)	"It depends on the sauce," Lester told him, "if you want to do a really good homemade sauce it can take up to a day," he said, "some sauces you can do really quick but I would recommend taking your time with them,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor considered that for a moment. "Yeah, will probably stick to the simple ones for now. Maybe... if I can learn how... can make a real sauce for something special sometimes." He liked the sound of that and as hard as he tried to stay focused on what he was doing, Connor's mind drifted a little as he added in the spices and such for the meat. As he went to set one of the bottles down it tipped over and the lid, which had not been put back on fully, popped off, spilling some of the fine powder out. "Ooops! Sorry about that!" Connor said as he snapped out of the small daydream and gave an apologetic look at Lester as he started wiping up the mess.
Lester(thearcfamily)	LLester smiled, “a special sauce can be the perfect recipe on occasion, it definitely doesn’t have to be all the time” he assured Connor. And then he sighed at the slight mess Connor had made, he really should have expected this shouldn’t he? “That’s okay Connor, I mean it’s hardly the worst mess I’ve seen in my kitchen,” he added with a wry grin.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Better than last time for sure" Connor said with a smirk as he cleaned up the mess quickly and then went back to working on the meal. "There's an awful lot of different sauces though" he said thoughtfully as he worked. "How in the world are you supposed to know what goes with what?" he asked. Because it was all a mystery to him really.
Lester(thearcfamily)	“Well when it comes to cooking there’s over 50 kinds of sauces,” Lester told him because yes he knew how many sauces there were, “in cooking though we have a rule of thumb where there are 5 mother sauces béchamel, velouté, espagnole, hollandaise, and tomato and these tend to be the most commonly used sauces, as you start cooking more, you’ll start using more sauces and become more confident in making them,”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Yeah, most of that might as well have been Latin for all he knew. But Connor nodded thoughtfully. "Guess learning two or three basic ones will be a good place to start. Can always tweak those and play around with things and see what I can come up with."
Lester(thearcfamily)	After Lester finished his rambling, or at least what counted as rambling for him ... he realised that there was a chance Connor didn't even know what those sauces, so he cleared his throat a bit, "er ... yes, sometimes coming up with your own recipes can definitely enhance the experience, tweaking the ingredients and the steps to get the balance right, it's all part of the learning experience,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Awesome. That would be good to have and..." Connor trailed off as he started cooking up the ground beef for the sauce. "I just realized," he said looking up at Lester as he bit his lip slightly. "The recipe I’m using says to use canned sauce... Is... is that going to be ok? I don't know how to actually make spaghetti sauce," Connor said, sounding a little worried. He didn't want to seem like he was taking the easy way with the cooking, but he was pretty sure homemade sauce was a bit out of his league just then.
Lester(thearcfamily)	After Lester finished his rambling, or at least what counted as rambling for him ... he realised that there was a chance Connor didn't even know what those sauces, so he cleared his throat a bit, "er ... yes, sometimes coming up with your own recipes can definitely enhance the experience, tweaking the ingredients and the steps to get the balance right, it's all part of the learning experience,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Probably best to stay with the simple ones for now. Can always expand as I get more comfortable" Connor agreed as he finished up the meat and added in the pre-made sauce and then paused for a moment. "The directions say to reduce to a simmer. Is that low on the stove?" He thought it was but figured he'd better ask before he ended up burning and ruining the sauce.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester nodded, "it's definitely something that will come easier with time, you can't make an omelette without breaking a few eggs after all," apparently the one thing Connor was going to find out about Lester this trip was that he was a big fan of food puns, "but to answer your question that does mean to just lower the temperature on the stove, if it needs to simmer, it doesn't need to be extremely hot," he told Connor gently.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor nodded and lowered the heat and then put his attention on the actual spaghetti as he dumped it into the boiling water while the sauce continued to simmer. Once it was starting to cook up he went to the fridge and started taking out a few things. "I thought we could have a small salad to go with it," he said as he took out the things he would need.
Lester(thearcfamily)	"A salad sounds lovely," Lester smiled, "did you want me to help you with cutting anything up?" he knew Connor was determined to do this on his own but he wanted Connor to still know that he was there for help if it was needed.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"If you want carrots in the salad maybe those? They... they're kind hard to cut up easily" Connor said with a quick lift of his bum hand. "I think I will be ok otherwise, thanks."
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester nodded, "I can definitely cut up the carrots for you," he said gently as he stood up from the bench to go and get the utensils and cutting board he needed for cutting up the carrots.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Thanks" Connor said with a small smile as he started working on the rest of the salad after checking to make sure the timer was set for the spaghetti so it didn't overcook. "Going to keep it fairly simple" he said as he got the lettuce shredded and into the bowls. "Was thinking of carrots, tomatoes, mushrooms, and peppers. I... I don't know if you have anything like dried cranberries or anything for the salad" Connor said with a somewhat sad smile. "Nick always added them to the salads we would get delivered. It was really good.".
Lester(thearcfamily)	"That sounds really good a salad," Lester smiled as he continued to cut up the carrots, "and you know I think there might be some dried cranberries in the cupboard," he said, "I usually keep them on hand since they're good to add to meals sometimes, even just to have as a snack," he added.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor did perk up a little at that and grinned as he went to look for them. "It's... it's interesting, isn't it, how little things can remind you of someone. Even seemingly random things" Connor said with a somewhat wistful look. There were so many little things... things that reminded him of Nick and what they had had together.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester smiled softly at that, "when you've shared a bond like that with someone, it can be hard to not be reminded of how special the time you had was, even after it ends ..." he was lost in his own memories for a while there, "even though I remarried, I still remember small things that I loved with my first wife, even after all this time,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"How... how do you deal with that? I've never had a real relationship before... dates and flings but nothing serious. I didn't know what it was like to have these kinds of memories" Connor sighed as he looked down at the cutting board where he was working for a moment. "I... I know I reacted badly. To Nick and... and how he felt, how he feels about Helen ... and... Stephen." Connor flinched slightly at saying their names. "It... it was wrong of me to react the way I did. Nick had a life before me... with them. It's wrong for me to be angry at him for the memories he had and what he feels. I... I just don't know... how to not feel this way."
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester was quiet for a moment, “it took a really long time,” he said softly, “we’d … we had our issues before, when I got shot …before our son got sick, we tried couples therapy … to make it work but then our son died …that ended any chance we had of making it work … I … I went to therapy a lot, talking to someone helped…” he hesitated, “I don’t know if Nick has told you but he’s started seeing someone, I wonder if maybe that would be something you’d be interesting in pursuing?” he asked gently.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Nick mentioned he was thinking about it. That Becker had suggested someone to him." Connor said softly. "I... I think I'd like to try... see if it helps. I... I just don't know where to even start ya know? But I-I do want to figure this out. I want to be better for myself. For Nick if.... if we can work things out, even just as friends. I know I cant keep wrestling with this alone. I... I need help Lester."
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester nodded, stopping his cutting up the carrot to look at Connor and he placed a gentle hand on his shoulder, "I know this is an incredibly hard to admit, that you need help and I'm proud of you for doing this ... and I'm here to help you, with whatever you need, you don't have to do this alone," he paused, "did you want to see Dr. Jones again or try someone new?"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor smiled at the hand and leaned into it slightly as he thought about that for a minute. "I think... I'd like to try and stay with Dr. Jones" he said finally. "I didn't mind her too much, and... she already knows some of what's going on so... it... might be easier than trying to start all over with someone new?"
Lester(thearcfamily)	“I’ll give her a call,” Lester promised gently, keeping that hand on Connor’s shoulder for as long as he wanted, “if you would like I can arrange to make an appointment for you with her before you head back to Fandom?”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor nodded slowly. "I.... I would like that yes," he said softly. "I need to stop putting this off and figure things out. If you could make it happen, I think I would like to see Dr. Jones before I head back." Connor suddenly felt a little nervous though as he bit his lip slightly and then looked over at Lester. "I... would you... I mean" He hesitated and took a deep breath. "Would you... come with me? I... I don't know if I can do it alone right now..."
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester nodded, "I'll pull some strings and get her to see you before you head back to Fandom," he said gently, "and of course I'll come with your to your sessions, I'll come to as many as you need me to go to ... you don't have to do this alone Connor,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor nodded and smiled. Just then the timer went off and he turned it off and checked the spaghetti. "I think it's done" he said and then hesitated a moment as he looked over at Lester again. "I... I think I'm gonna need a little help with draining it" he said somewhat sheepishly."I'm not sure I trust the hand after all this workout" he said simply.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester gave a small smile, "of course I can help," he said as he went over to help Connor with draining the spaghetti, "I must say this smells incredible," he remarked as he got closer, "you're doing an amazing job at this Connor, you should feel very proud,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor couldn’t help but smile at that. It did feel good to be able to do things on his own, but also good in a way to finally feel comfortable asking for help or admitting when he couldn't do something himself. It was small progress to some but for him it felt huge and he was proud of what he had managed to do and what progress he had made. "It does, doesn't it?" he said with a grin as he took in a deep breath and smiled. "I think it's going to be amazing." And with that Connor finished up the salad prep.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester smiled warmly, "of that I have no doubt," he said gently as he finished draining the spaghetti, "you're well on your way to becoming a chef Connor, I'm very proud of the progress you've made, not just in the kitchen but your emotional and physical recovery as well, you've come along way this past week,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"I know I got a ways to go still but this feels good... I... I haven't felt this good since... well" he gave a small shrug. Lester likely knew what he was referring to."Thank you, Lester... for doing all this for me. I... I have really enjoyed it." Connor picked up the salad bowl and moved it to the table then headed back for the sauce. "You are actually a really good teacher" he added with a grin.
Lester(thearcfamily)	"I do have my moments," Lester smiled, pleased to see how much better Connor was doing with everything, "and you're welcome Connor, I've really enjoyed this too and my earlier offer still stands, you're welcome to come to the cabin at any time that you'd like,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor smiled broadly at that. "I would like to, yes. Maybe... maybe we could do something like this again sometime?" Because even his secondary cabin getaway in the woods had a kitchen that put the kitchen in his flat to shame! And with that, Connor had the table ready and the food was finished and just waiting to be enjoyed. "Shall we?" he asked with a proud grin as he looked over at the table and what all he had managed to do.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester smiled warmly as he looked over at the table, "I would be happy to do this again, just say the word and I can make the arrangements," and he nodded at the table, "this all looks fantastic Connor, I'm looking forward to eating this,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	He could only nod in agreement to that, his eyes fully fixated on the spread on the table. Connor knew he probably should have waited and let Lester go first, but he was so excited to finally try everything and see how it had turned out. And so, with all apologies to Lester, Connor sat down and started dishing out a nice heaping plateful of spaghetti.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester really couldn't blame Connor for wanting to get started on the spaghetti and once he sat down to begin eating, he followed suite and got a nice plate of spaghetti for himself and he settled down to enjoy a nice meal, which was really a perfect way to end the week.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	As he quietly and thoughtfully made his way through the first few bites of everything, Connor couldn't help but feel happy- for the first time in what felt like far, far too long. He hadn't been sure about the trip at first. But it had been perfect. And he really did feel a lot better than he had a week ago. He even felt hopeful, that things would work out, one way or another, and he would figure out what he wanted and what he needed. It was going to be a progress but Connor knew he could get through it. This was indeed a great way to end the week and start off the next part of his journey. "Thank you Lester, for everything" he said simply with a sincere smile as he went back to enjoying the meal.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester smiled as he ate a few bites of the spaghetti, which was really quite excellent and he was very proud of Connor and what he'd achieved this week, "you're very welcome Connor," he smiled fondly as he settled down to enjoy a very good meal with very good company and it was really a perfect way to end their trip.