[ He reads it as turning it right back at him. If anything, after years of trying to interpret Stella's cold shoulder as anything but, he's well practiced in turning little hints of smiles into something much more promising. This is no different. So maybe she's not turning the full power of flirtation back on him, but man, it's been a dry spell, he'll take what he can get.

It helps that Fraser's not here, really. She probably wouldn't give half a damn about him if he was. (what he doesn't know etc.) ]

Yeah a partner. Me and him we're usually a two for one deal but he's uh-- [ His thumb sank into his jean pocket and he gestured wildly with the other hand. ] So I'm flying solo.

A few minutes, yeah I got 'em. You want me to get in, maybe?