Title: Thicker than Water
Author: Max Tyler (a.k.a. Max452)
Email: Max_01_09@yahoo.com
Rating: R
Spoilers: Family Affair part 1 & 2.
Disclaimer: I do not own any Third Watch people or places. I do not make any money off this, it's strictly for enjoyment only.
******************************************************************************
(Faith)
It was late when we returned to the station after dropping off Mikey. In fact, when I glanced at the dashboard clock, I was astonished to see it read 3:45 a.m.
I was worried about Bosco. Although we hadn't been on the best of terms lately, he had been through a lot.
As they parked, I snuck a glance at him in the driver's seat. The strain showed on his face, the dark shadows under his eyes.
Silently, they went inside, and began the arduous project of filling out paperwork.
Normally, Bosco would've been complaining, glancing pointedly at the clock, moaning and groaning.
But now, he simply sat at the desk, his head bent, studiously writing. Not saying a word.
I wondered how to go about approaching him. I thought about it for a moment, and decided to simply ask.
"You okay?" I asked softly.
Bosco didn't respond for a moment, simply continued writing. Then he looked up, "Yeah, I'm fine."
I nodded dubiously, not believing him, but not wanting to push him. Their relationship was still new, still fragile. Nowhere near where it used to be.
And I had to admit, it hurt.
******************************************************************************
(Bosco)
After the paperwork was finished, it was 4:15.
Faith had tried to ask if me if I was okay, but I brushed her off. Told her that I was fine.
I felt guilty because she was only reaching out to me... wanting to help. But I couldn't accept it right now.
We went down the station's steps; I avoiding eye contact with Faith, sucking cool early morning air into my lungs.
When we reached our cars, I nodded at her, "See you tomorrow?"
A look crossed her face, "Bosco, are you sure you're okay? 'Cause we can go somewhere, and talk..."
I gave her a smile, "Thanks for the offer Faith, but I want to be alone right now.... ya know?"
She looked a little worried, but nodded.
"Thanks again. See you at work."
Faith nodded again, apparently deciding to give up, "Okay. But my offer still stands."
I smile again, and watch as she walked to her car, waiting until she was safely inside, and driving away.
Then I unlocked the door to my car, my 1956 Mustang, and get in.
I drive off, but not in the direction of my apartment.
I lied to Faith, I didn't want to be alone.
I was going to go visit my father... to "talk" about him turning in Mikey for reward money. The thought of that made furious anger at him, and sadness for Mikey roil in my stomach.
I catch a glance of myself in mirror, and hardly recognized my own face.
It was strained, tired, dark circles under my eyes, which were burning with anticipation of the confrontation ahead of me. My face was pale from lack of sleep.
My father wanted a reward? He'd get a reward all right.
I smiled.
It just wasn't the one he thought.