Archive of Our Own ^beta

 

Paul tried to beg off the meeting, but his concern for the patient outweighed his sense of duty. Don’t get too close . He’d obeyed that maxim since joining the NSA, and until this point in time he’d successfully separated work from emotion. To say Caleb Smith challenged him was an understatement.

One month after the raid on the late Nathan Bateman’s compound, and the subsequent rescue of his “prisoner” Caleb, Paul submitted his reports and awaited the next assignment. He expected to return to Washington and bury himself in work. Forget about Caleb’s sad but steely blue-gray eyes and let the distance thicken and cloud his memories. He was preparing to check out of the hotel when the hospital called.

“He won’t talk to anyone else, Mr. Sevier,” they said.

“I’m not a psychiatrist, which is what he needs,” he said. “My involvement in this case is over.”

One more day, one more meeting, they pleaded. Caleb Smith was just about to open up about his time with Bateman’s AI when Paul left. Paul relented, despite his misgivings. He was more concerned that he might open up in a different, more inappropriate way if he spent any more time with Caleb.

 

The man needed help, though. Paul would see to him, then leave as soon as possible. Do not get too close.

****

“I can’t leave this room, Mr. Sevier.”

“Please, call me Paul. Why can’t you leave? I would think after being trapped in a house you want to move around more.”

“Something about that hallway… Paul. I went out there yesterday and had to turn around.”

“You sound like you have a fear of liminal spaces. Have you always?”

“I never considered it before.”

“Did Bateman’s compound have them?”

“I don’t know, maybe? The lower level of his house was like a maze.”

“If not, why do you suppose you fear them now?”

“I can’t say. Maybe it’s the length, or the way it plays tricks on my eyes. Maybe I fear Ava will turn the corner and be waiting for me. I-I just don’t want to leave this room.”

“Caleb, would it be okay if I walked outside with you? We’ll walk the hallway together and I’ll show you that there’s nothing to fear.”

“Uh, sure.”

“I’ll be right beside you the whole time, okay? Take my hand.”

****

“Was that so bad, Caleb?”

“No. It was good. Thanks for doing that with me.”

“It’s no problem. Will you be okay tonight?”

“I will. Will you come by tomorrow?”

“...”

“Please?”

“Yes, Caleb. I will.”