Shannon merely snickered at the response, moving to lean in next to her as they walked. In the heat of the day, it wasn't easy to place anyone by anything but his natural senses. Eli's voice carried over the breeze and he moved closer, letting go of Michelle's hand for a moment to place both on Eli's shoulders.

"I hope you aren't spoiling my partner, partner," he said, smile on his face and recipient delightfully vague. "Look, Eli, I brought you a present. No time to wrap her, though."