[[ lexington, kentucky ]]

[itwasjustified]

[ "you do realize you're pokin' fun at the man who's supposed to explain box trifectas to you tomorrow, don't you?" ]

He's still in jeans and cowboy boots, but Raylan's dressed a little less casually this morning -- instead of a T-shirt and well-worn flannel, he's in a checkered button-down, tie, and sportcoat, Stetson ever-present on his head.

Double-checking the room number, he tucks the paper bag he's carrying beneath his other arm before he knocks on Dani's door.

(Nestled inside are muffins from the best bakery in town, and beneath those, a box of granola bars from Whole Foods -- he couldn't resist after a particular bit of conversation yesterday.)

When she opens the door, she'll find him carefully transferring the bag back to his free hand while he balances two coffees in a travel tray.

Comments

[notenlightened]

That gets him a scoff. She blocks his way to the front door.

"Who said anything about 'like'?"

[itwasjustified]

He stops short.

" -- tolerate?"

[notenlightened]

"That might be pushing it."

Despite her words, her voice is soft. Maybe even bordering on gentle.

[itwasjustified]

"Allow, then."

[notenlightened]

"Indulge, at best."

[itwasjustified]

His smile widens.

"Indulge," he repeats, stepping closer.

"Then if you'll indulge me, Detective Reese, I'd very much like to get the door for you."

[notenlightened]

"I won't stop you, Marshal," she promises, and shifts back to grab her jacket and shades, leaving the doorway clear for him.

[itwasjustified]

"Thank you."

He's mostly kidding, staying well within the lines of this easy back-and-forth, but there's sincerity underscoring the words.

Two strides, and he's holding open the door.

[notenlightened]

She perches the aviators on top of her head, slipping her arms through the sleeves of her jacket as she walks on through.

"Don't mention it."