He gave Steve a mock salute in reply to the wave and let the man go without complaint. It was clear that Rogers was 'socialized out' at this point, and he knew better than to push too far beyond making it clear that he intended them to do this again. For Steve's own good, of course. Guy was like some workaholic hermit sometimes.

"No problem, big guy," he replied with a cocksure smirk as the door shut, and he was left alone in his place. He was still pleased as he walked over to the door and set the locks before padding back to the couch, intending to clean up.

Instead, he reached under the table and pulled the phone hidden up there in a secret compartment and seated himself. He pulled up Pierce's number and simply texted over the words:

Working a different angle. Will report any major progress.

Except when he wouldn't because there were some things that were for him and him alone. He just hadn't decided how shallow or deep that went.