Page 90 of Hack
As Archer came around the desk, Carter reached out and snagged his arm, stopping him. "Can I have a hug?"
"You never need to ask for one of those." Archer took him into his arms and held him tightly. The tension in Carter's body was immense, but that was expected after what he'd just read. "Don't think about what's in that file. Think about how many girls you saved, how many girls Lyle won't be kidnapping now. Think about how you were the one to put a stop to all this." He brushed his lips over Carter's temple.
"I can't help wondering what Angel went through, what she had to see." Carter's voice was raw.
"Don't wonder. You don't need that in your head." But he was sure that it was going to be something that haunted Carter for a long time. There was no forgetting, no not wondering. It would always be there.
"I want to play pool." Carter pulled back.
"What?" Archer was confused.
"I want to drink and play pool. Do you know a place?"
"Yeah, of course. It's filled with cops though. It's where they all go after they get off work."
"I don't care. I just need to take my aggression out on some balls and get drunk."
"You sure that's wise?"
"It's that or I go break into the jail and give Levitt and Luis what they deserve."
"Pool it is." Archer took Carter's hand and brought it to his lips. "Go get your shoes on, I'll meet you in the kitchen."
As he watched Carter walk away, he wasn't sure drinking was the best idea, but it was the first time Carter had wanted to go out, so he'd let him do what he wanted. He'd stay sober and watch him. Carter had been hurt enough, and if he could help it, he was going to keep him from hurting anymore.
