Phil and Riley's story was a throwaway. Something I wrote to start off 2020 on a happy note. I didn't imagine then how much we would need lighthearted tales to help us cope with a pandemic. I did like them enough to spin them in for Ranger. I have nother story with them as the main characters, but I'm uncertain when I'll get to it. Before it sees the light of day, I have five others planned. ANd one of them's a long one.
As for Brad, he won't be alone at Everhope. Wingnut will still live there. I very much doubt the Squad members remaining in Washington would allow him to close himself off, and Cristina and Carolina will also be around.