Ghost Hunting 101

☆Twenty One☆

T/W:

****

Nolan and Avery were seated, side by side, at the table in the society, while the others waited for Nolan to announce his big news.

"We've been selected for a spread in the latest addition of paranormal monthly," Nolan says. Nobody says anything for several minutes.

"You're serious?" Sid asks. Nolan nods.

"When are they coming?" Lola asks.

"The end of the week," Nolan responds. "So I'm gonna need to make sure we're all on the same page."

"Which means...what?" Lennox asks.

"We need to make sure we're working together on this. If they see any kind of disharmony or anything that they consider fake evidence, they'll drop us," Nolan replies.

"We want this as much as you do, Nolan," Lola says softly. Nolan nods.

"There's...something else," he continues.

"What?" Sid asks.

"You know how badly this last investigation effected me," Nolan says. Everyone nods, remembering the last conversation they had.

"I know we agreed to take a small hiatus, but..." Nolan bows his head, struggling with the right words. Avery gently squeezes one of his hands. Nolan lifts his head, looking at his team. This isn't going to be easy for any of them. Him, most of all.

"I'm planning on stepping down for a few months." Everyone is stunned into silence at Nolan's announcement.

"You sure that's what you want to do?" Lola asks. Nolan nods.

"I think it'd be a good idea. My mental health needs to recover before I can start getting myself back out there."

"Of course," Lennox says. "You do whatever you think is best." Nolan smiles, but looks teary-eyed.

"Thanks," he murmurs. "You guys are the best team I could ask for."

"What about the magazine spread?" Sid pipes up.

"I'll be around for the majority of that," Nolan responds. "And I might need to accompany the team on one investigation. But after that's wrapped up, I'll be stepping down."

"Avery, will you still be assisting us?" Lola asks. Avery smiles.

"If you still want me to."

"Absolutely," Sid replies, smiling. "You're one of us now and with Nolan taking a break, we could certainly use the help."

"In that case, I'd be delighted to help."

"Lola," Nolan says.

"Yes?"

"Since you've been there since the beginning, I'd like for you to fill in as team leader." Lola's eyes widen.

"You really want me to fill in during your absence?" Nolan nods.

"I can't think of anyone more qualified for that position than you."

"Thanks, Nolan. I'm honored to fill the position."

"Do you know exactly what Paranormal Monthly will want from us?" Lennox asks. Nolan shakes his head.

"Apart from the usual stuff, I'm not entirely sure what exactly they'll be looking for."

"This is kinda surreal," Lola comments. "We've been dreaming about this opportunity for months and we're finally getting a shot."

"Let's just hope nothing derails this once in a lifetime opportunity," Sid says.