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Sometimes, a pause said more than a thousand words. Like right now, after Beckett had asked Ryan the question: “So, since when have you been in love with Javier?”
She hadn’t been sure before, but the pause told her everything she needed to know: that was exactly why Ryan had been hurting the last two weeks; since Esposito had told them all he was seeing someone.
Ryan looked at his hands and shrugged, trying to wave away the question.
“You should tell him.”
“Kate, he’s a ladies man. He’s together with a woman. He’s finally got a serious relationship. First of all: he’s as straight as they come. Secondly, I’m not trying to be a relationship breaker.”
“And why do you think it has taken him so long to find someone?” Beckett asked.
“Because he’s a busy man?” Ryan answered, but he sounded unsure.
“We all know he’s a flirt, but have you heard him talk about dating someone for the last three years?”
Ryan didn’t know what to say.
“Look, I wasn’t planning on violating Esposito’s trust, but he told me why.” Beckett continued.
Beckett saw Ryan was about to cry. This had really taken a toll on him.
“Javier’s in love with you, Kevin.” Beckett said and she saw the first tears fall. “He’s only dating because he wants to push away the hurt he feels of not being able to be with you. If you go there right now and tell him how you feel, you can finally be together. And you can be your happy self again, cause I miss that.” Beckett smiled encouragingly when Ryan finally looked up.
“Are you serious?” The hope in Ryan’s voice made Beckett emotional.
They both looked out the window of the break room, seeing Esposito pack his stuff to go home.
“Go after him.”
Kevin didn’t let her say it twice.