If anyone else, even Amanda, touched him like that, Niles would have snapped. He would have pulled away and scolded them. But Gabe was always different. But still, there was a tension in him, as though he considered pulling away still. But that hand guiding his, Gabe always knew just what to do. With the file closed, he relaxed. He'd been working too hard. It was time for a break.

Tomorrow, he'd have a clear head and he could find the answer. Dancing with Gabe would fix it. This he knew, now. He'd earned it.

He turns his hand in Gabe's, grasping his friend's hand lightly. So close, he gently nuzzled against his friend. And when he pulled away, it wasn't with the same urgency as before. It was an invitation to follow. Without a word, he started for the door, leading Gabe by the hand.