*grimaces* I liked my first WC story (Wrong) - I tolerated my second one (Bittersweet) but I'm not so sure if I like this one or not. Oh well... let's see what the people think of it...

Neal was slumped in his chair, his eyes dull and tired. Peter paused in the doorway – his heart aching at the sight of the young man. Without a word, he slipped his coat off and put it over Neal's shoulders before patting the conman's head affectionately, messing up Neal's slickly styled hair.

Neal's eyes flickered up to Peter's and then back down to the desktop when Peter sat down. Peter carefully slid the file papers away from Neal even as he pushed his untouched cup of coffee towards him with his other hand. Neal looked at the foam cup for a few moments – blinking dolefully before reaching out and taking a small sip.

"Thanks." Neal murmured, his fingers curling around the warm cup.

Peter shrugged. "Don't mention it."

He looks so small… Peter thought quietly, his eyes softening around the edges. But then… how were you supposed to look when you finally accepted the fact that the woman you loved didn't love you back? That she had only been using you…

"You're a good kid, Neal." Peter said without thinking – looking at his partner – his friend – with fond eyes.

Neal glanced up at him, looking slightly startled at the unexpected words. And then – ah… there it was… that trademark smile that was without a doubt – completely and utterly Neal Caffrey. It might not be as bright or as cocky as per usual – but it was still there…..

"For such a smart guy, you are pretty slow on the uptake." Neal said. They both winced slightly at his choice of words – but Neal plowed on. "Most people think I'm a great kid.."

Peter rolled his eyes before inwardly – inwardly he was beaming. Neal would be alright. He was still there. He was strong enough to handle the disappointment and hurt Kate had brought.

They would be alright.

Okay - just in case you are a tad confused - this is how it played out in my mind. Neal hs finally accepted the truth and now knows that Kate never did love him. He is - understandably - depressed. Peter knows Neal so well that he automatically knew what was wrong and comforted his partner in his own, gruff sort of way.

Not slash in any way shape or form. Bleh.