There was that defeatism again. It struck Simon that Nik didn't give herself enough respect. Sure, he could see problems in the things she'd shared but there were issues in every writer's work. In truth, she was already better than many published writers, but perhaps tonight wasn't the best time. She was exhausted. She needed to get home. He smiled softly.<br/><br/>"OK," he said. "Let me make a deal. I'll stop by for some petrol and then head home. I'll pick up some crisps and soda from the petrol station of Sage and me and if you want to join us later you can. I know you want to rest, Nik, but my rest starts with sharing time with Sage."<br/><br/>He headed down East Main to the Sunoco and pulled in. It took only minutes to sort out what he needed and then he was on his way home. Nik looked half-asleep to him, though perhaps that was just the light and her being quiet after a bad day. It took a short time after that to reach their home, the house they shared with Sage. He opened the doors for Nik, her being tired he decided to be a gentleman. Then he walked into the house himself. He took a deep breath of the air in his home and savoured thoughts of the various games Sage had had him play lately. Yes, relaxation began with Sage. As did feeling right with the world.<br/><br/>"We're home," he called.