Title: Never Again
Author: serialchick
Rating: PG
Pairing: Neal/Sara, Peter/El
Spoilers: VEILED THREAT
Warnings: None
Disclaimer: White Collar and all characters associated with it are the property of Jeff Eastin and the usanetwork.
Summary: Neal has something to say to Peter about how he handed the case.

"It's not me, it's you," Peter smirked as Selena was lead way.

Neal was standing next to him, smiling in amusement, as they watched the rest of the team start to clean up and clear out. When they were finally alone, Neal let the smile drop and turned to his partner.

"We need to talk." He said seriously and shifted his weight into a more aggressive stance.

Noting the change, Peter narrowed his eyes before asking, "What do you think we need to talk about Neal?"

The ex-con met his eyes with determination and just a hint of anger as he stated, "I'm not a piece of meat."

"What-"

"No, Peter." Neal interrupted. "I understand that sometimes you need me to flirt with a mark or act certain ways for a case, but you're not my pimp, so stop acting like it."

"Neal-"

"No." He said somewhat calmly, not letting him finish. "I do not appreciate you forcing me into a situation where I have to 'entertain' someone who has no connection to the case." He continued.

Peter stared at him in complete astonishment. Neal had made no objections to the assignment during the entire length of the case and it had never occurred to Peter that the younger man was harbouring such strong feelings about it.

"I may not be able to say no to you Peter, it's part of the deal I agreed with," Neal said with conviction, "but I am not your personal hooker."

Peter stared at his partner, shocked and confused by what had been said before he answered. "I'm sorry Neal, but sometimes that's what the job calls for."

"No." Neal told him. "If you're good enough, it is never called for."

Peter blinked in surprise before he let out a sigh. "Anything else?"

"Yes." Neal answered. "You will never bring a murder suspect into my home again."

Peter spluttered in surprise before Neal cut him off.

"No, Peter." He answered firmly, the anger more than just a hint now. "Not only did you put myself, Sara and Mozzie in danger with no warning or time to prepare, you also risked the lives of June and her entire household."

"But I –"

"No!" Neal said loudly, silencing any protests. "You should have found another way."

Peter could only stand there dumbstruck as Neal lifted his head in defiance and commanded, "Never again," before he turned and walked away.