The metal doors closed heavily behind him. He took in a deep breath. He'd been avoiding coming here for as long as he could find an excuse. He didn't have any more excuses, and he didn't want to hear that hurt feeling in his lover's voice every time he said he couldn't make it. Sighing heavily, Booth looked across the room to see Zack smiling at him. When he approached, Zack stood up.
"You came," He sighed happily. Booth nodded.
"Sorry it took me so long."
"It's ok," Zack sat down; effectively making Booth's decision whether or not to touch the younger man for him. "I know you've been busy." Booth smiled weakly. He was happy to see the twinkle back in Zack's eyes, but it hurt him to think he'd been avoiding the ex-anthropologist on purpose.
"I've missed you," Booth whispered; looking away from the table. "I wanted to come and see you for so long…" Booth looked up when he felt Zack's hand on his own.
"It's alright, Seeley," Zack whispered. "I know this is hard for you. I'm so sorry that I'm doing this to you." Booth sighed and put his free hand over Zack's.
"Sweets told me something," He said quietly. "He said you told him something… something you didn't want anyone else to know." Zack closed his eyes; trying to stop the tears he felt coming.
"I lied to you," He said quietly. "I'm sorry, but I couldn't go to jail. I hate being here; being away from you. But I know it would be worse if I was in prison." Booth nodded his understanding.
"It's ok," He almost whispered, holding back his own tears. "I know why you did it, and I won't tell anyone."
"Thank you," Zack smiled softly. "I wish… I miss you so much. I miss falling asleep in your arms, and waking up to your kisses. I just want to curl up with you on the sofa…" Zack closed his eyes. Booth tightened his grip on Zack's hand.
"I know," He whispered shakily. "I… I know." The moment of silence was broken by Booth's phone ringing. Reluctantly letting go of Zack's hand with one of his, Booth took out his phone and looked at it.
"That's Bones," He sighed. "I have to go." Zack nodded and let go of Booth's hand. Booth stood up slowly.
"I'll see you soon Zack." Again Zack nodded; not trusting his voice as Booth turned away.
Walking away, Booth wiped at his eyes. He knew he would always blame himself for what happened to Zack. He should have taken better care of the younger man. He should have made him stronger. But it was too late for that now. The best he could do was support the man he loved and keep the secret that would take Zack away from him for good
THE END