Showing Support
Summary: Catherine offers Horatio her support. HoratioCatherine.
A.N.: Idea came to me. Had to run with it.
You hover at the back of the funeral gathering, wearing the formal black trouser-suit and dark sunglasses. You hair is twisted up into a messy pony-tail and your make-up is kept to the bare minimum.
When people start to walk away – Alexx heading in one direction towards Speedle's parents, Calleigh and Eric leaving hand-in-hand – you start walking towards him, taking your time as people walk and shake his hand, offering their condolences.
Finally, as the last person walks away from him, you clear your throat. He slowly turns around to see you.
"Catherine?" he exclaims, obviously surprised to see you there. He rushes towards you and embraces you tightly.
"Hi!" you half-whispers into his shoulder, arms tightening briefly before loosening. You step away, but only enough so you can see his grief-stricken face.
"What are you doing here?" Horatio asks, hands gripping at your waist, keeping you near him.
You shake your head and shrug. "I came to offer support. I know what it's like to lose someone." Memories of Holly, the explosion, guns drawn on people you care about, attacks on officers, CSI's, civilians flash before your eyes. You squeeze them shut and he pulls you close.
"Thank you," he says into your hair and you let the faintest of smiles adorn your face. "Thank you."
THE END