Disclaimer: I do not own CSI, nor would I ever claim to do so.

Pairing: D. Hodges x Sara S. (Pre-Season 8)

---

“Are you asking me out on a date?” Sara asked, frowning slightly.

Hodges paused. Yes. “No, because that would be unprofessional.”

“Oh,” Sara said. She opened her mouth to say something else, but closed it again, debating on whether or not to speak.

“Sara?” Hodges prompted.

“Nothing,” Sara said, waving her hand dismissively. “I've got to get back to work.”

Hodges sighed, and turned his attention back to his work, letting the whir of the machines distract him.

“David?” Sara asked, stepping back into his lab.

“Hm?” Hodges glanced up at her.

Pause. Awkward smile.

“I would have said yes.”