Chapter 3: Booth and Brennan
I stood back with Sweets, while Bones watched Zach though the looking glass. By the time Cam, Angela and Hodgins left, it was just me and Sweets, and Bones looking through that glass.
An hour went by, and still, she stood there. Rooted to the spot. I couldn't tell if she was crying or not. I knew that Cam, and now Ange and Hodgins were waiting at the lab for us, and that we should probably be on our way, but I didn't want to interrupt Bones' mourning period. Sweets gave me that look that simply said, It's time. I nodded and walked over to Bones.
I touched her shoulder, and she turned and looked at me with tears in her eyes, the same look she had that day so many years ago in McVicker's barn. "Hey," I whispered, as I took her in my arms, just as I had that day. "I've got you. I'm not gonna let go."
I felt her tears on my shoulder, and her sharp breathing that was characteristic of her crying. I looked at Zach, who was watching us, with the look of a small child who knew he disappointed his parents. He seemed to be begging me to forgive him, so that by extension he could think Bones would forgive him too. I nodded at him, and he blinked, understanding that he'd be missed.
Bones stopped crying after a moment, but she didn't stop holding on to me, which I was secretly grateful for. She whispered against my neck, "I think I'm ready to go now."
I nodded and led her down the corridor, well aware of Sweets analyzing us. At that point I didn't care. She was all that mattered; making sure she knew it wasn't her fault took precedence over killing Sweets.
We reached the SUV, and I kissed the top of her head before she got in. I closed her door, and went around to my side.
It was going to be a long ride to the lab.
It was going to be even longer before we were all comfortable there without Zach.
A/N: I know it is so weird that our favorite crime fighters have such a short chapter, right?? I totally don't get it either, but that's the way it is. And, on another note, the lack of reviews saddens me!! I know that people are reading, thanks to the fun Story Stats page, so please PLEASE please review. It'll make my day! :)