Set between season 10 episode 2 and episode 5.


"No, Bill, I really don't need any help. It's just a sunburn."

"Come on Doctor; there's no way you can get enough of this lotion on your back to-"

"What lotion?"

"What do you mean, lotion? I don't need lotion."

Bill nodded her head. Her hair shook like River's used to when I'd drive her crazy, "Doctor if you don't use it the sunburn won't get better."

I shook my head thinking, I don't need anyone to take care of me.

I never needed River to take care of me.

She was wonderful... but we didn't baby each other. We knew the other was tough enough to handle whatever life threw at us.

Maybe that was the difference, life didn't throw things at her or me... it was always "us". We faced problems together...

I miss having a partner.

...

"Doctor?"

Oh, Bill. Why is she still here?

Because she's your partner now.

River... River... I- oh, River.

Suddenly I was on my feet walking towards Bill. My arms wrapped around her and held her tight.

"Doctor... Doctor, are you okay?"

"Never trust a hug Bill."

"Why?" Bill asked incredously.

"It's just a way to hide your face."

Wait, have I done this before?

"No probably not." I said, what did I say that out loud?

"What?"

Guess I did say it out loud... better let Bill go now.

"Nothing, it's not important. Now, run along home. I'll see you tomorrow."

Bill looked at my face for a while, like Amelia used to. God, I miss her too.

"Okay, see ya later Doctor. Take care of the sunburn, 'kay?"

"Yes, I will. Later, Bill."

Until it's not later anymore, until later becomes never again... like it always does.