Hodges turned sharply at the sound of his lab door closing. Seeing Nick there, he relaxed a little.

"Hey Nick, what can I do for you?" Hodges looked over Nick carefully; there was trepidation in his expression, but his stance was sure.

"I'm here about Greg." Nick sounded unsure of himself; as if what he was about to say could get him into trouble. Hodges just nodded, not wanting to tip his hand too soon.
"I don't… You…" Nick stopped speaking, determination now in his eyes. "Don't call him G." Hodges just stayed silent, watching Nick's ever changing expression. Slowly, the tension drained from his shoulders; as if saying it was enough.

"It means something to you," He said slowly. "The nickname?" Nick didn't answer right away; not knowing what was safe to say. Eventually he gave a short nod. Hodges gave Nick a smile in return and nodded.
"Ok," He said lightly. "I won't use it anymore." Nick still seemed lost for words so he just gave Hodges a small half-smile before turning to leave. Hodges smiled to himself; following Nick out but turning off at Archie's lab.

"You owe me $20," He said with a smirk. Archie looked up at Hodges.

"Really?" He asked incredulously. "He admitted it?"

"As good as," was the reply, and Archie looked through the window to where Nick was now standing close to Greg. A little too close to be friendly. With a soft smile, Archie reached into his pocket and handed Hodges the Twenty. It was worth it to see the light in Greg's eyes as the two CSIs left together.

The End.