She Was Your Mom
Summary: A double drabble written for the Tumblr hurt/comfort dialogue prompt: "It's okay to cry."
Peter has some upsetting news for Neal. I imagine this happening early to mid-season 6.
"This came today from the Marshals Service. Because you're a ward of the state, it had to come through us."
"What is it?"
"It's about your mother. Neal, I'm sorry." Peter handed the letter to Neal.
The short official note advised that Maureen Bennett (Nee Caffrey) had died two weeks ago. Nothing else. Not the cause, where, or even her name at the time.
"How'd they know? About me I mean."
"Do you remember a Marshal Wallace?"
Neal nodded. "He was the one assigned to us when I left home."
"The Cape Verde episode didn't just put you back on the FBI's wanted list. He saw the circular the Service sent around. It wasn't a great photo, but when he saw your name, knowing your family's details, he made the connection."
"Do you know if he told my mom?"
"I don't."
Coming around the desk, Peter sat in the chair beside Neal. "But he's included his card if you want to call, and this letter."
The envelope was addressed "To Neal". Recognising his mother's handwriting, Neal choked back a sob, shaking uncontrollably.
"Hey, it's okay to cry," Peter said softly, putting his arm around Neal's shoulders. "She was your mom."
AN: Addressing the envelope "To Neal" and not "To Danny" was a deliberate choice on my part.