Disclaimer: I do not own White Collar or any of the characters mentioned below. This story is for entertainment purposes only. No profit is being made.

Peter could only stand and watch helplessly as Neal walked away. He didn't want him to go, and not just because he didn't trust Kate. No, because Neal was his friend. He wanted Neal to stay here, with him and El and Mozzie and June…where he belonged. Not with Kate. Not away from everyone that truly cared about him. Neal turned around one last time and began to speak, "Peter—"

Peter knew a goodbye was coming. He was the only one left, and he didn't want to hear it. He was staring into Neal's tear-filled eyes when it happened. The plane exploded. With Kate inside. He saw the shock cross Neal's face, quickly followed by the realization of what had happened. His feet started moving and the next thing he knew he was holding Neal back from rushing into the fireball ahead of them.

"No. No! Nooo! Kate!" Neal's anguished cries tore through Peter. He could only stare at the wreckage in disbelief. But there was a part of him that knew the significance of what had just happened. His hold on Neal tightened as it worked its way to the forefront of his mind. He was the only reason Neal hadn't been on the plane when it exploded. No one could have predicted him showing up. Which meant whoever did this thought Neal would be on there as well. Neal was supposed to die along with Kate. Someone was trying to kill Neal. His friend. He returned his attention to Neal as the younger man began a renewed thrashing in his arms.

"Let go! Let me go! I have to save her! She's burning! Kate!" Peter shut his eyes in anguish for a second before forcing Neal to face him.

"Neal! Neal, listen to me. She's gone. There's nothing you can do. There's nothing you can do, Neal."

Neal shook his head, "No—"

Peter grabbed Neal's chin and forced his eyes to meet his, "She's gone, Neal. She's gone."

Neal stared at him uncomprehendingly for a moment before his face crumpled. The sob that escaped his mouth caused Peter to pull him close.

"Why? Why Kate?" Peter flinched at the sound of Neal's broken voice.

"I don't know." It was the only answer he could provide for now, and he knew it wasn't good enough. But it was all he had to offer. That, and to be Neal's friend, and hold him as he cried.

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