God, it's been a while, hasn't it. See, THIS is why I don't do chapter fics. I do oneshots. And I do companions. But not chapter fics. And do you know why? Because I lose focus. ;] But I'm back and hopefully better. So here we go. Also, I know that you all will probably hate me for this one. Hell, I hate me for this one. But it was really bugging me and I couldn't let it go. I'm sowwy. :)
The casket was the finest I had ever seen. Max would have thought it was unnecessary for such measures to be taken. He'd probably something about simplicity. But I knew Bones wanted him to have the best, even if she'd never admit it. It spoke to me, the way she knew she should do this. It wasn't the same as her paying for a victim's funeral; it was different when it was her own father. It was different when she knew that it wouldn't be the same.
As they lowered Max into the ground, I heard a small whimper from the space next to me. I wrapped my arm around Bones and kissed the top of her head. She didn't protest, nor did she throw my ass onto the grass like she would have seven years ago. She just sagged into my arms, letting somebody else carry the burden of the world for once. I had to apologize to Max and God, then. Because it's never proper to be happy at a funeral.
Her tears stained the white material of my shirt, and I whispered in her ear. "C'mon, Bones. Time to get you home."
She nodded, and I led her back to the car. I hadn't let her drive, today of all days.
It was a quiet drive home. I didn't say anything; I simply took her hand in mine and smoothed small, soothing circles on the back of her hand.
I brought her hand to my lips and kissed each finger, before returning for the diamond on her middle finger. I smiled at her and whispered, "We're going to make it, Bones. I love you."
I know. He didn't actually ask…But…that's where the muse took me. :) Love Always, Mirder