Ghost Hunting 101

☆Four☆

T/W: Frightening sequences, mentions apparitions and minor innuendo.

***

Avery is standing beside the cargo van, watching as the paranormal team unloads everything. She'd offered to assist them, but Nolan assured her they had everything under control.

She turns her attention to the vast building only a few feet away from her, her gaze taking in every little detail. Although Avery herself has doubts about the supernatural, just looking at this place, she wouldn't be surprised if there wasn't something unknown lurking in the dark shadows.

"We're ready for you to join us," Nolan announces to Avery, who just nods. She follows Nolan inside and immediately her senses are assaulted by the smells of mildew, rotting wood and mold.

"Is it safe to be breathing in this crap?" Avery can't stop herself from saying, covering her nose and mouth with her hand and tossing Nolan a Look.

Wordlessly, Nolan reaches into his pocket, pulling out a face mask and passing it to Avery, who gladly accepts it, hurrying to put it on.

"Not really," Nolan replies. "But we're all used to it by now. I knew you wouldn't be, however, so I made certain to have that mask on hand."

Avery isn't sure if she should be touched or offended by Nolan's actions. She simply thanks him and waits for further instructions.

"Since we have someone new with us," Nolan says to his team. "Well split up in a team of two and a team of three. I'd prefer Avery come with me, since she doesn't have any prior experience. Any other volunteers?"

"I'll come," Lennox volunteers, grinning at Avery, who gives him a tight lipped smile in return.

"Guess we're together," Sid says to Lola, who grins.

"My favorite partner," Lola says, bumping her shoulder against Sid's, who chuckles.

"Kiss ass," Sid says, but he's smiling.

"Okay," Nolan says, his keeping his tone brisk and business-like. "Let's get the equipment set up and then we'll split up."

***

Avery notices every little awkward movement from Nolan. She watches as he fidgets with anything he's holding. She wonders if she making him nervous and uncomfortable.

"Am I making you uncomfortable?" Avery asks quietly, for only Nolan's ears. He doesn't even look at her as he sets up a camera.

"Not at all," Nolan responds. Avery sees him tapping one of his feet, in a nervous gesture. Nolan finishes with the camera, abruptly turning an intense gaze on Avery, who takes a silent moment to admire his dark eyes and well trimmed facial hair.

"I forgot to ask you," Nolan says. "What exactly will you be doing during our investigation?"

"Just following you around, plus recording some stuff on my own. Which reminds me; would you be willing to share any footage that you or your team captures?"

"I'm guessing that'd be something you'd want add on your blog?" Nolan asks.

"I feel it'd be appropriate to share with the general public anything that your crew uncovers, don't you?"

"Avery, you don't capture footage just for shits and giggles," Nolan says. "We're simply trying to help someone who needs our help."

"I get that," Avery says crisply. "But if I'm posting actual evidence, it'll look even better for your paranormal society."

Nolan flaps a dismissive hand in Avery's direction. They haven't even begin the investigation yet and he's already fed up with Avery Greer.

"Well?" Avery presses. "Would you be willing to share your footage on my blog?"