Now we come to Tuesday with Jessica. While Aubrey is in West Virginia, how does she cope after their fight?

At 9:00 Jessica examined the remains in front of her, giving laser focus to her task and keeping her emotions in check. She wanted to use her work to forget her pain, but it kept coming back.

Twenty four hours earlier, she had been content. She had spent the weekend with the man she loved. They were together and happy.

Now, she didn't know what they were. 'Did she dump him? Would he ever call her again?'

Then the 64,000 dollar question. What was he keeping from her?

When they talked in the Mall two months ago, they'd made a pledge to be open with each other with no more secrets. But he was keeping something from her…something big. She could feel it.

However, she wouldn't beg to be let in. James Aubrey had to come to her. She was strong, self-reliant, and prepared to be on her own. She had hoped that she would end up with Aubrey, but last night and this morning showed her to be wrong…again.

Whatever it was, she hoped it was worth it to him. She had to deal with him shutting her out the first time around, but she wouldn't do it again.

*/*/*/*/*/*/*/*/*/*/*

Brennan came into the Bone Room and found her intern silently working. Going over her work, she was alarmed when the young woman didn't engage in her traditional stream of conscious chatter. As she inspected the bones further, she heard what sounded like a sniffle. Turning, she was alarmed to see the intern's jaw tremble before she wiped her eyes.

"Ms. Warren, are you alright?"

Startled, she turned and saw her mentor. "Sorry, Dr. B, I didn't hear you come in."

"I have been here for approximately ten minutes. You seem upset. Do you need a few minutes to compose yourself?"

Embarrassed, Jessica took a breath. "I'm sorry…"

"Your apologies are not necessary, Ms. Warren.", Brennan replied, not wanting to push the intern if she didn't want to talk. "As long as your distress doesn't interfere with the investigation it isn't a problem. However, if I can be of assistance, feel free to ask."

Jessica smiled. "Thank you, but I'm fine."

The two women worked in silence for the next ten minutes until a phone buzzed. Realizing it was hers, Brennan removed her gloves and checked it, nodding as she read the text message. "Booth and Aubrey arrived in West Virginia safely. I'm very relieved."

This got the redhead's attention. "West Virginia?"

"Yes, Booth told me last night that they had a lead in the Vacchio case and they needed to drive up there today. There's also a winter storm warning so they may not be back until late tonight." Brennan sent a reply before putting the phone in her pocket. "Didn't Aubrey tell you?"

"No…he only said he would be working late today. I didn't know he was leaving town.", Jessica said quietly before going back to work.

"That's strange.", Brennan said. "I don't understand why he wouldn't tell you."

"I don't know either.", Jessica said as she picked up a rib. "I'll probably never know now anyway."

Brennan chose to tread carefully, knowing she was limited in her abilities to pick up on a person's emotional subtleties. "Ms. Warren, you seem quite distressed. May I assume that you and Aubrey had a fight?"

"You could say that.", Jessica said.

"Would it help to talk about it?"

Jessica put the rib down before inhaling to hold back her tears. "Aubrey was so…distant…and angry last night…we had a big fight this morning…we broke up…well…I don't know if we did…he's keeping things from me again, Dr. B…I don't know what I did wrong…I…."

Brennan could see the young woman was unable to control her emotions.. "Ms. Warren, go to my office."

"What?"

"You're in obvious distress and you're no good to me in this state. I'm going to pull Dr. Wells from Modular Storage to finish this examination and then we're going to talk or just sit quietly in my office until you get control of yourself."

Jessica was mortified. "I'm sorry, Dr. B—"

"I don't want your apologies. I just want you to compose yourself before you tell me why you are upset. Now go to my office, Ms. Warren." Brennan noticed the intern remained. "That's not a request, Ms. Warren."

Feeling like she was being punished, the redhead took off her gloves and walked out, but not before being seen by Angela. "Jessica, what's…"

Stopping when the young woman walked briskly across the lab, the artist came into the Bone Room, where Brennan was putting the rib back. "Bren, what happened?"

"I don't know…but I will find out. Please ask Dr. Wells to finish this examination, Angela."

"Sure, Bren…do you need me for anything?"

"No thank you, Angela.", the forensic anthropologist said. "Whatever has her so upset, I'm sure she would appreciate discretion."

Brennan walked into her office and saw her intern completely break down. Not sure if she should give the young woman her privacy, Brennan held back for a moment. Before she could make a decision, Hodgins wheeled up.

"Dr. B, I just got a call from Genny about a body dump in Maryland by the Antietam National Battlefield. She's sending Agents Bower and Haggerty to meet you."

"Agent Bower is—"

Hodgins held his hand up. "She knows, Dr. B. She said she would've taken it but Aubrey is out of the office today and her other agents are swamped. She figured that you'd make sure Bower would behave himself and if he didn't, she asked that you call her personally. She said you have her number..."

Brennan considered for a moment. She only worked with the best agents and Agent Steve Bower was definitely not one of them. However, she knew that any concerns that she took to Aubrey and Agent Shaw would be handled.

"That is acceptable, but Agent Bower will be better than competent or I'll complain to Aubrey and Agent Shaw personally."

Hodgins nodded. "Okay. Also, with the storm and the terrain probably going to be nothing but mud, I can't go with my wheelchair."

Brennan thought of something. "With the weather—"

"Angela and I will take Christine and Hank home with us, Dr. B.", Hodgins said. "Do you have a preference on who you take in my place since we have both Jessica and Oliver here today?"

Thinking of the young woman in her office, Brennan answered readily. "I'll take Ms. Warren."

The entomologist thought of something. "Shit, I forgot. Jessica took a cab to work today because her Jeep is still at the shop. Angela was going to take her home—"

"If we're late, I'll take her home. Her neighborhood is on my way."

"Thanks, Dr. B."

Brennan watched her friend wheel away before looking back into her office. She was glad to see Jessica was calmed down and wiping her eyes. Walking in, she got her intern's attention.

"Ms. Warren, a body has been found at the Antietam National Battlefield. Please change into appropriate clothing, make sure your kit is stocked, and I'll meet you with Dr. Boyd at the van in fifteen minutes."

The redhead nodded, glad there was something to distract her from her horrible morning. "Of course, Dr. B."

Jessica got up and walked briskly into the locker room. Knowing fifteen minutes meant fourteen with her mentor, she quickly took off her coat and changed into her jumpsuit over her pants. She slipped her boots on and after thirty seconds of struggle, managed to secure the lock on her locker.

"Can't wait until the new digital locks come next week. This lock sucks."

Racing to the evidence room, she used her badge on the new reader and when prompted, punched in her code. Going inside, she found her kit, opened it, and made sure it had everything she needed. Satisfied, she secured it and walked quickly towards the garage, noting that the rain downpour she had come to work in had progressed to a sleet mix. As she got to the entrance, she realized she hadn't grabbed her wallet.

"Oh well. Dr. B likes to drive anyway."

Two and a half hours later, the three women arrived at the crime scene. Much like DC, the national park and the nearby town of Boonsboro were in the middle of a torrential downpour mix of sleet and rain. The body dump itself was a muddy mess except for the immediate area surrounding the body, which was merely soft due to the tent set up to cover the area.

Brennan, Jessica, and their interim pathologist were directed to the remains. The redhead saw Agent Jill Haggarty questioning a witness and was glad. She transferred to Major Crimes in October from the Minneapolis field office and Aubrey said he was pleased with her work so far. Then she saw the second agent and shuddered.

'Great…get to work a scene with the FBI pervert. He better stay away from me. I'm not in the mood today.'

"Ms. Warren, when you're done daydreaming, get over here! There is work to do!"

Hearing Dr. Boyd's abrupt tone, her cheeks turned red while rushing over to the scientists. Laying down the tarp so the three women could work, Jessica was then startled by Brennan.

"Dr. Boyd, I'm not sure how things work at the FBI laboratory, but at the Jeffersonian we do not speak to our interns that way. Please keep that in mind for the time you are with us."

Jessica bit her lip as the blonde woman turned red with embarrassment. 'Thank you, Dr. B.'

*/*/*/*/*/*/*/*/*

An hour later, when the rain stopped for a few minutes, Jessica walked the immediate vicinity of the scene, checking for any evidence while her mind was racing.

'He hasn't called me all day…but I shouldn't be surprised. I told Superman not to call unless he could tell me the truth. Obviously he lied about going to West Virginia, so whatever caused him to do that…I hope it was worth it. I won't beg for him…he has to come to me…he has to come clean with everything. I thought he was different…'

Jessica stopped for a second. James Aubrey was different…or else they wouldn't have become such close friends. Or else she wouldn't have lost her heart to him.

'Not going to cry again…not going to cry again…if Aubrey can ignore me then I can ignore him. Simple…'

"Hey, Jessica…fancy meeting you here."

The redhead groaned at the voice. Turning around, she was greeted by Agent Bower, who gave her a wolfish smile that made her nauseated. "Yeah…imagine that. I don't have time to chat, Agent Bower. Dr. B needs me to examine the scene for any evidence to take back to the lab."

"My boss was in a pretty foul mood this morning before he left with Agent Booth, and you're a bit quiet as well. Did you two have a fight?", Steve asked in a snarky tone. When Jessica merely continued with her work, the agent continued. "Your boyfriend was a dick yesterday, too, when I asked him for a favor with Karen. Can you believe that scrawny kid turned me down flat, saying it was up to me to deal with it? Some boss he is...always acting like he cares about his agents, but in reality he doesn't give a flying fuck."

Fed up, Jessica turned around. No matter how she felt about her Superman at that moment, she wouldn't let anyone disrespect him, especially one of his subordinates.

"Agent Bower, dealing with your girlfriend isn't Aubrey's job...it's yours. Also, that 'scrawny kid' is not only my boyfriend, but also your supervisor at the FBI, and you will treat him with the respect he's earned. Don't disrespect him again or you'll regret it."

Bower squared his shoulders, not accustomed to a woman being so hostile with him. "Yeah, he has a higher rank, but I've been with the Bureau longer…and somehow he gets the hotter women, too. Go figure..."

'Wow, Karen really got the pick of the litter with this asshole.' Jessica thought as she rolled her eyes at Bower. "The reason Agent Aubrey has a higher rank than you is because he earned his promotion through hard work, an obvious intelligence you lack, and he's good at his job. He also gets the cuter girls because he's a gentleman who respects them, not a sexist asshole like you."

"Aw come on, Sweetheart...just relax a little bit. It's obvious that you're a little tense and your boyfriend isn't around to help you. What about tonight you and I get together...say I follow you to your place after work and I make you feel really good…"

The redhead was about to the end of her rope. "You're a pig, Agent Bower. The only thing you can make me feel is the urge to vomit. Now, leave me alone."

Bower reached for her hand and began caressing it. "You know, if you would get to know me better, I can make you forget that beanpole-AHHHH!" He yelled when Jessica bent his fingers back. "Son of a bitch!"

The redhead's eyes hardened as she enjoyed seeing the older man in pain. "If you make one more pass at me, I'll tell Karen about all the times you hit on me. Next, I will inform Dr. Brennan that you have been acting in an improper manner towards me before I file a sexual harassment complaint against you at the FBI. Finally, I'll let Aubrey deal with you, personally. If you are still breathing by the time he gets done with you, you can kiss your career goodbye.. Get me…Sweetheart? Now fuck off!"

Bower's face twisted in pain as he held his fingers. "Sure, Jessica…I was just being friendly…and letting you know there are options out there besides Aubrey. You could definitely do a lot better."

The man turned around to walk away, but slipped in the mud and fell on his ass. Jessica bit her lip to contain her laughter but put on a serious face when she saw Dr. Brennan standing to the side of the scene.

"Agent Bower, your carelessness has possibly contaminated evidence. Now, we're going to have to take your clothes to check for trace."

"Wait, you mean…what the fuck am I supposed to wear?"

"Well, I'm assuming you have undergarments on. We do have a couple of the jumpsuits in the van, but your clothes are coming with us." Looking around, she found someone from the Jeffersonian. "Mr. Thomas, please take Agent Bower to the van and assist him in removing his outer clothing as evidence."

Brennan turned back to her intern. "Ms. Warren, please continue to search the outer area."

"Yes, Dr. B.", Jessica said.

When the older woman walked away, Jessica's momentary pleasure was gone as her mind raced back to Aubrey. Suddenly, she got a bad vibe about her boyfriend that scared her.

Shaking it off, she forced herself to continue with her task. He may not even be her boyfriend anymore, and she was probably just emotional from their confrontation this morning.

It wasn't until almost 3:00 that the women got on the road back to DC. As they were leaving the scene, Brennan spoke up as she drove.

"Hodgins called a short time ago. With the rain turning into sleet from the falling temperatures, the Jeffersonian closed the museum and he was sending the employees home then as well so people can get home safely. He wanted to warn us so we didn't panic when no one was there when we arrived back."

"That's nice of Curly.", Jessica said as she cataloged the evidence they'd collected on the laptop inside the Jeffersonian van.

Brennan kept her speed at no more than 40 miles an hour down the two lane highway as the rain and sleet pelted the van with force. "I am estimating our arrival back at the lab around 5:30 because of the inclement weather."

"No shit, Ms. Likes to Hear Herself Talk.", Dr. Boyd muttered from the passenger side, still smarting from being chastised by the anthropologist at the scene earlier.

Brennan turned to the pathologist. "While I do enjoy the cadence of my voice, I felt that perhaps you may have had plans to alter, Dr. Boyd."

"Well, my apologies if I spoke out of turn. I didn't realize the obvious needed to be stated.", the other woman said with a snark.

Brennan's fire was up. "Your belligerent attitude is uncalled for."

"I'm not being belligerent. Unlike others, I'm not in awe of the amazing Dr. Temperance Brennan. Now, I'm warning you not to talk down to me again like I'm one of your interns, Dr. Brennan. People treat me with respect at the FBI and I demand the same from you."

The anthropologist refused to take the bait. "First, I'm actually very amazing because I'm the best forensic anthropologist in the world. Second, respect is something that has to be earned, Dr. Boyd. If you want respect, it's not earned by treating our interns and other employees like second class citizens simply because you are having issues adapting to the way we do things at our facility. Since you seem unsatisfied with working with our lab, perhaps Dr. Hodgins should call the FBI lab tomorrow to request a replacement."

The pathologist's mouth dropped in shock before struggling for an answer. "Excuse me...you have no right-"

"But I do, Dr. Boyd. You're not here because you are the best pathologist the world but because you applied to be our temporary pathologist. You were probably chosen because of the Jeffersonian's relationship with your employer, along with your acquaintance with Harold Maxwell, something I learned about from Amanda Marshall recently. Now, there are several other highly talented and qualified medical examiners who would welcome the chance to work with our scientists. Now, please let me concentrate on the road."

Jessica snickered from behind her mentor, happy that someone told off the arrogant pathologist. Since Day One, the woman acted like the lab was lucky to have her. More than once, she'd challenged Hodgins, always countering with how things were done at the FBI and refusing to adapt to their procedures. Something told her that this woman would not make it to March...thank God.

It was then it occurred to her that she had never heard her phone ring or beep a message today. Reaching for her phone, she realized she didn't have it. After checking her pockets, she realized that she'd left it in her lab coat in her locker in her haste to get ready to leave.

'Why am I so worried about my phone? It's not like Aubrey is going to call me after I yelled at him this morning.'

"Ms. Warren, due to the weather, if you like, I could offer you a ride home tonight instead of you taking the Metro train or calling a cab."

Realizing she was being spoken to, the redhead looked up and smiled. "I would appreciate that very much, Dr. B, but what about your kids?"

"Dr. Hodgins and Angela are taking Hank and Christine home with them, so I can stop for them after taking you to your residence."

"Well, thank you.", Jessica said.

"You're welcome, Ms. Warren."

Brennan returned her full attention to the road and the hazardous conditions. While she didn't want her intern to go home alone in the dark and inclement weather, she also wanted to try to help, as her introspective behavior was very unlike her normal personality. Obviously, she and Aubrey had a fight earlier that day. When Booth sent a text letting her know he arrived safely, he indicated his friend was in a similar mood but didn't go into detail.

Booth wouldn't say anything if it would break a confidence, Brennan knew. Whatever happened between the intern and Aubrey cut deep for both of them. Hopefully the young couple would remember the advice they'd been given by their mentors... to trust their friendship.

Just then, Brennan saw the map for Washington DC disappear from her phone, replaced by a call from Booth. Pulling the van over to the side of the road, she grabbed the phone from the dash mount and answered. "Hello? "Booth? I can hardly hear you. What are you doing at this number? Is everything alright?"

Brennan put her finger in her ear. "You're staying in West Virginia…well, your safety and Aubrey's is more important. Are you staying in a hotel?...you're staying where?...oh all right…will you be back...a message…yes, I'll tell her…Booth, you're breaking up…."

"I love—", Brennan said in a loud voice before pulling the phone from her ear. "—you."

Hanging up, she turned to Ms. Warren. "Aubrey and Booth are staying in Hazelton, West Virginia tonight. It seems the sleet and rain mix progressed to freezing rain before it began to snow heavily. The cell reception in the area was sub-par at best. My husband was calling from a landline but I could barely hear him."

"That's good. I'm glad they're not going to try driving back in this stuff.", Jessica said, relieved that perhaps her bad vibe was just a false alarm. 'Why does Hazelton, West Virginia sound so familiar to me?'

"Aubrey's phone didn't have any service, either. Booth said he wanted you to know that he loves you…and he's sorry."

"Good…good to know. Thanks.", Jessica responded, slightly embarrassed.

Feeling tears well up again, the redhead took a deep breath and looked out the window to gain composure. She'd already broken down twice today, and she would be damned if James Aubrey would cause her to do it again, especially in front of Dr. B..

"Booth also said the warden was letting them stay at his house tonight because the roads leading to nearby Bruceton Mills are closed due to the weather. He reassured Booth and Aubrey that the West Virginia Department of Transportation should have the roads cleared by morning. "

'Warden's house? Why would Aubrey and Booth visit a….' Jessica thought. Then it hit her like a ton of bricks. Hazelton, West Virginia. An unincorporated town less than ten minutes from the Maryland and Pennsylvania borders. Home of nothing…except one thing.

Federal Correctional Institution, Hazelton, a medium security prison.

It was also the current home of Philip James Aubrey, her boyfriend's father, who was currently serving a 10 - 17 year term for 92 counts of securities fraud and insider trading along with a concurrent 18 month sentence for jumping bail and going to Croatia after his original sentencing in 1997.

Jessica closed her eyes as anger mixed with frustration and sadness. 'He lied to me about his father…again. Damn it, James! You promised to stop protecting me from your father!'

It wasn't protecting her, though. He still didn't trust her…not fully. He trusted her fidelity to him and his body. However, he held that small part of himself back…because he was afraid of being hurt by her.

She felt for the man who was still in pain from his father's abandonment after almost twenty years. She felt for the man who'd lost his mother, the person who stayed behind and sacrificed for him. She felt for the only man she knew she would ever love…her best friend.

But her best friend still didn't trust her completely…and it cut to the bone. The last twenty four hours finally made sense. Something had happened with his father that had shaken him to the core, so he'd avoided her until she called him. Instead of making love, he'd fucked her hard to bury the anger inside him. Worst of all, instead of letting her help him, he'd picked a fight to make her angry…all to avoid telling her about his father.

She didn't know which emotion was stronger, the sadness for her lover's pain, or the anger for making her hurt in order to maintain his distance.

Taking a deep breath, she composed herself. He said he loved her, so he was possibly planning to talk to her when he returned. She would give him a chance to come clean.

If he didn't, Jessica had some choice words for him. Then, she would have to decide if her love for him was enough for her to forgive his lie.

These thoughts occupied her for the leg of their return to Washington DC.

They arrived back at the lab at 5:25, which was deserted due to the early lab closure. After Dr. Boyd stomped to the autopsy room, Jessica and Brennan put the equipment back and quickly stocked it for the next time.

"Ms. Warren, I'm going to change in my office. After you do the same and grab your personal belongings, you can meet me there when you're ready."

"Yes, Dr. B."

The redhead wearily walked back to the intern locker room, exhausted from the day. She still didn't know what she would do about Aubrey. She wanted to trust in the friendship like Dr. B said a few months ago, but her boyfriend's lack of trust was heart crushing and she wasn't sure she could get past that.

Turning the corner towards her locker, Jessica walked in and immediately stopped as she saw her combination padlock dangling from the strike. Coming up closer, she saw the cut was clean. Getting a chill, Jessica ran to the nearby bathroom stalls and grabbed toilet paper. Putting it on her hand to avoid contaminating any evidence, she pulled out the lock. Slowly, she opened the locker and trembled at what she saw.

Her melon colored raincoat had a slash through the back. On the door, the pictures she had of her family and Aubrey were ripped off. She found the pieces sitting on the bottom of the locker along with her phone, which had been crushed.

Then she saw her purse was missing. Her wallet with her driver's license…and the keys to her apartment.

Feeling nauseated, Jessica looked around before backing away slowly and walking out quickly. Rushing to her mentor's office, she found Brennan coming out of her private bathroom.

"Dr. B, someone broke into my locker and trashed it. My purse is gone, my phone is destroyed. My pictures…my coat…"

Brennan immediately took charge. "I'll call security while you make a list of what is missing, Ms. Warren."

"Yes, Dr. B.", Jessica said shakily before sitting on the couch. A minute later, she was surprised as Brennan held out a lined coat for her.

"It's one I keep in my office in case I'm caught unprepared for inclement weather."

Jessica took the clothing and put it on, appreciating the gesture. "Thank you, Dr. B."

Forty minutes later, the women were in the garage heading home when a guard got their attention. Turning around, they saw the woman holding up a bag with a large cut in it.

"My purse!"

"Yeah, we found it in a garbage outside the lab, covered by trash. Can you do a quick review to see if there's anything missing?"

Quickly going through her purse, Jessica saw her wallet, which looked intact. Opening it, she saw all her cash was there, but she didn't see her Mastercard, credit union debit card, and driver's license. Pushing her wallet aside, she saw what remained of the cards cut up on the bottom of her bag. Finding her contraceptives, she got a shiver as the last week and a half of her pills were pushed out of their foils. Composing herself, she saw her stuff was all there in her bag…except one thing.

Her keys were missing.

"My keys…and some of my birth control pills are gone. My debit card, credit card, and my driver's license are cut up at the bottom of my purse."

"That is very...unusual, Ms. Warren.", the guard said. "Well, I'll update the report. Are you scheduled to be here tomorrow?"

"Yes. ", Jessica said.

"We will keep you posted. Night, ladies."

The anthropologists watched the guard walk away. Brennan looked over at her shaken intern. While quiet and upset this morning, now she looked absolutely terrified. Leading her to her Prius, she unlocked the door for her passenger. When they were secured, the two left the Jeffersonian for the trip to Jessica's apartment.

"Ms. Warren, do you have any idea who may have done this?"

Emotionally drained, Jessica shook her head. "No…I just can't think right now. I think I just want a beer and maybe some quiet time."

Stopping at a light, the older women turned to her intern. "The theft of your birth control pills is unusual. Are they usually in your purse? I've kept mine in my medicine chest."

Jessica gulped. "It's easier…because I've stayed nights with Aubrey so that way I'll have them when I need them."

Brennan nodded as she alternated between looking at Jessica and the road. "Ms. Warren, may I make a suggestion?"

"Of course, Dr. B."

"With the keys to your apartment missing, I would suggest staying elsewhere."

Jessica laughed. "I would try a hotel but my credit card is cut up as well as my ID. I can't stay at Aubrey's…even if I wanted to, he's never given me a key to his house."

"I see.", Brennan said. "We will go to your apartment to pick up some things…and then if you wish, you can stay with me tonight."

Surprised, Jessica turned to her mentor. "Dr. B, I couldn't—"

"Yes, Ms. Warren, you could.", the anthropologist said firmly. "Even if nothing has been taken, whomever took your property now has access to your apartment, and you're taking a risk sleeping there alone. However, my home is away from our road, and it has the latest security features, including a video doorbell. I'm trained in karate and I also carry a Sig Sauer .237 pistol in my purse."

"I don't want to impose…"

"You're not imposing. I'll just ask Angela to bring the children home after dinner since we may be delayed once again."

The redhead had another thought. "But what if someone…is there…"

"Excellent point. Perhaps you should call Agent Shaw to see if she minds meeting us there."

Jessica reached for her phone but remembered why she didn't have it. "I don't have my phone…"

The elder anthropologist pulled over. Getting her messenger bag from the back seat, she pulled her phone out. Finding her in her contacts, she handed the phone to her intern. "I have her cell phone number. When you are done, call your landlord."

Jessica wiped a tear from her eye as she took the phone. "Thank you, Dr. B."

"Of course, Ms. Warren.", Brennan said. 'Then perhaps you and I can talk about what happened with you and Aubrey.'

Jessica held the phone until there was an answer. "Genny? It's Jessica. Listen, I need a favor."

The Prius and its passengers made its way through the nation's capital, dodging the rain and sleet in the air.

Forty minutes later, the anthropologists arrived at the Korean grocery store. Parking, the two women made their way inside, where Genny was in street clothes talking to a young man who Jessica recognized as Mr. Cho's grandson.

"Grandfather is out of town, but I have the keys. I called the locksmith to change the locks tomorrow."

"Thank you, William."

"All right everyone, I'm going first.", Genny said. "When we get inside, you all will stay outside until I tell you it's okay to go in."

After everyone nodded, the four went through the back to the other entrance to the apartments. Going up the three stories, they arrived on the landing without incident. William bent down to unlock the door but stopped.

"William, what's wrong?", Jessica asked.

The young man struggled. "The key is stuck…"

Brennan looked down and shined her light on the door knob. "There's some kind of substance in the keyhole."

"Great...now I can't get into my apartment…", Jessica lamented, trying not to cry..

"Jessica, do you still have that security bar Aubrey got you this summer?" Genny asked.

The redhead considered. "Yes, plus another one I bought for the floor."

"Good." Genny said before kicking the door open. "Stay out here until I say it's all right."

As the petite agent entered the dark apartment, all three waited outside with William holding his head in his hands. "Grandfather will kill me about the door…"

"I'll replace it, William.", Jessica said, thankful of her trust fund.

"Clear.", Genny yelled from the apartment.

Everyone walked into the small but neat apartment. Jessica looked around, trying to find if anything was missing, but all looked as it should have. Her focus went to the wall where almost 24 hours earlier, Aubrey had held her in place as he screwed her brains out. Wiping a tear away, she was focused on that wall until her thoughts were jolted.

"Jessica, do you want to check all the rooms to see if anything is missing?", Genny said. "Be careful in case there may be evidence."

The intern checked the other rooms first but found them to be as she left them this morning. Going into her bedroom, she turned on the light and looked around.

The basket in her closet that contained dirty clothes seemed all right. Her bed was still made from this morning. A bookshelf that held her dissertation research materials looked as it should. Walking in carefully, she turned to her dresser drawers and saw they weren't lined up correctly. Coming closer, she saw that they were sealed closed with the same substance that was in her door lock.

"The son of a bitch went through my drawers and sealed them shut.", Jessica said with a sardonic laugh. "I guess I'm glad the idiot missed the laundry basket of clean clothes in the living room."

Genny finished sending a message on her phone. "Jessica, I've just sent a message to Hodgins to send a team over from the lab. Since everything started over at the Jeffersonian, this burglary and anything else connected can be treated as a federal case."

The redhead turned around. "Genny, I can process my own bedroom-"

The agent stepped forward. "No, you can't, because if we find something, it could be compromised, especially if you know the person. Now, I've got a team on the way to process the scene."

"Agent Shaw-"

The agent turned to Brennan. "Dr B, I'll supervise them myself. I just need to call Hunter and cancel our plans tonight."

Jessica squeezed her eyes shut. "Genny, I'm so sorry…"

"No worries, Jessica.", Genny said as she got out her phone. "Now get some stuff to take to Dr. B's. We'll process the place and secure your apartment. I'll make sure the lab gets the dresser and door though. Perhaps if we ID that goo crap we'll have an idea who did this."

As Brennan talked on her phone in the living room, Jessica grabbed her travel bags. After making she had everything she needed, the two women walked out of the apartment as Wendell arrived with a Jeffersonian team.

"Mr. Bray…", Brennan started.

Wendell hugged his friend, who was struggling to maintain her composure. When he let Jessica go, he turned to their mentor. "I will collect everything. I promise."

The woman walked down the stairway and headed out for the Prius. As Brennan started the motor, Jessica thought of something.

"Dr. B, can we make a stop before going back to your house?"

Ninety minutes later, Brennan and Jessica arrived at the Mighty Hut II. Getting out of the vehicle, Jessica got her stuff. "Dr. B, thank you for making that stop for me."

"I assure you, Ms. Warren, that it was no trouble. I'm sure Aubrey will appreciate you feeding his cat."

"I gave him extra food so he would have enough until Aubrey gets home tomorrow. I don't want to inconvenience anyone."

Brennan unlocked her front door and the two walked inside. Entering the main area, they were greeted by Angela, who was cleaning up the kitchen. Seeing the two, the artist walked up and hugged the redhead. "How are you doing, Sweetie?"

"I'm doing."

"Ms. Warren, I talked to Dr. Hodgins while I was waiting for you at your apartment. We agreed that you should have the afternoon off tomorrow."

"But don't you need me?"

"Yes, Ms. Warren, but you will need a new phone as well as needing to cancel your credit cards, and you'll need to obtain a new driver's license, and replace...things. By the time you get home tomorrow evening it will be too late and these things should not wait."

"But I have no vehicle…"

"I'm taking you tomorrow, Jessica, or you can take the minivan."

"Thank you…", Jessica said before she was interrupted by a force running into her.

"Jessica! Aunt Angela said you are spending the night tonight.", Christine said.

"I am, Christine.", the redhead said as she bent down to take the hug offered.

"Where's Uncle Aubrey?"

Holding the nausea in, she forced a smile. "He's working, Sweetie. You get just me tonight."

Observing the redhead's eyes holding back tears, Brennan moved in. "Christine, let Ms. Warren through so she can put her belongings in the guest room."

Angela grabbed her coat and hugged Brennan. "See you ladies tomorrow."

"Drive very carefully Angela. It took us over an hour to get here from Aubrey's house."

"I will. Good night.", Angela said before walking out the door.

"I'll show you the guest room.", Christine said while tugging on the redhead's hand to Jessica's bemusement.

*/*/*/*/*/*/*/*/*/*/*

As Brennan got Christine ready for bed, the child asked her an important question. "Mommy, why does Jessica look so sad?"

Brennan considered what to say. "Jessica has a really tough today, Sweetheart."

"Is that why she's spending the night with us?"

The anthropologist nodded. "Yes, Christine."

"She should ask Uncle Aubrey to tell her jokes. That's what he does when he sees that I'm sad, or he plays Candy Land with me. Is she going to marry Uncle Aubrey?"

Brennan knew not to be surprised by her daughter's inquisitive nature, but she was this time. "I don't know, Christine. Maybe someday. However, we don't ask people things like that Christine, remember?"

The young blonde got into bed and got under the covers. "But Mommy, isn't that what people who love each other do? You married Daddy and Aunt Angela married Uncle Hodgins. I want her to be my Aunt Jessica. She makes Uncle Aubrey smile. She smiles a lot when she is with him, too."

"They do, don't they?" Brennan admired her daughter's simplistic view of life, fearful of the day when she had to face real life. "Now, I believe it is time for a story. What would you like me to read to you tonight?"

The blonde little girl looked at her mom earnestly. "Can I have Jessica read me a story tonight? I want to make her smile. "

Brennan smiled at her child's simple request. "It's 'May I', and I'll ask her."

The anthropologist got up and walked down the hallway. Entering the living room, she hurt when she saw the intern crying as she sat on the couch. "Ms. Warren?"

Startled, the redhead turned to her mentor and wiped her eyes. "Sorry, Dr. B. Been a bit of a rough day."

"I know. My daughter has asked if you would read to her tonight. She saw you were upset and wanted to make you feel better."

Jessica had her first genuine smile in hours. Standing up, she wiped her eyes again. "I'll go wash my face and read to her. To be asked is an honor."

"Then when you're done Ms. Warren, we will talk.", Brennan said to herself when the redhead disappeared from view.

Jessica came back out into the main area about thirty minutes later. "She went out like a light during the second story, Dr. B."

"Excellent." Brennan turned around. "I was about to make a cup of tea and heat up some leftover cream of broccoli soup in the refrigerator, and I'll probably slice an apple. Would you like to join me?"

Jessica realized that she hadn't eaten since they had made a quick stop on the way to Boonsboro. "Yes, I would."

The older woman pulled out tea bags. "Chamomile all right?"

Jessica smiled. "That...sounds perfect."

*/*/*/*/*/*/*/*/*

Fifteen minutes later, the two women were sitting at the center island sipping their hot drinks and eating their soup, chatting quietly about the weather. Seeing the young woman relaxed, Brennan went into interrogation mode.

"Ms. Warren, we never did discuss fully what happened with Aubrey this morning. You said something about keeping things from you and possibly being broken up with him. If it's not too personal, perhaps I can help...if you'd like to discuss it."

The redhead ran her finger up and down her mug before playing with the tag. "I don't know if anyone can help me, Dr. B. I don't even know what's wrong…"

"Well...push it on me and let's find out."

Jessica was momentarily confused before realizing what the woman was trying to say. "Well, it started yesterday when I came to the FBI after taking my Jeep to Howard's…"

Brennan listened, waiting patiently as Jessica stopped intermittently to let tears fall down. By the time she got to her fight with Aubrey, the young woman was almost beside herself.

"What did I do wrong, Dr. B? Why does Aubrey lie to me about his father? I know his dad is an asshole.", Jessica asked through her tears. "Why do I make my boyfriends push me away…"

As a scientist, Brennan considered all the sides. However, she recognized Aubrey's actions immediately. Seeing the young woman in front of her devastated and blaming herself for something that was out of her control, Brennan knew that she needed to step in.

"You don't make Aubrey push you away, Ms. Warren. He's scared."

The redhead wiped her tears away. "Of what? I'm not going to leave him again. I love him...so much...more than my own life...I want my life to be with him. I've told him that."

Brennan contemplated. "It's hard to understand, Ms. Warren, unless you have experienced what Aubrey and I have…"

Jessica thought for a moment. "Are you referring to your parents being criminals?"

"Yes, Ms. Warren." Brennan thought as she contemplated her words. "Aubrey and I share not only the experience of criminals for paternal units, but also the dubious distinction of being abandoned by our parents. Aubrey and I were both at impressionable ages when we were separated from our parents. I was shuffled between foster homes while Aubrey had his mother, who he was close to, but he didn't have a father to help guide him when he needed one the most."

"It doesn't matter to me that his father committed several crimes, Dr. B. It's not who Aubrey is. He's so much better than that piece of crap."

Brennan didn't want to break a confidence, so she chose her words carefully. "A couple of years ago, we had a case involving hedge funds which...upset him, as it brought up bad memories. After the case was closed, Aubrey and I met for a drink at Founding Fathers because Booth thought it was best that I talked to him. Eventually the subject of our parents' crimes came up before evolving into our experiences of losing our parents."

Jessica maintained her silence as her mentor continued to talk.

"When my parents left without a word, it...broke me. I wondered for years what was...wrong with me. I figured I was unlovable and I didn't want to experience that pain again, so I closed myself off emotionally. I didn't have a true friend until the day I met Angela. Her patience helped me...but it was Booth that showed me what true friendship was...before love. However, it scared me because...what if we tried to be together and it failed? I would lose him again."

"He adores you, Dr. B.", Jessica said. "The way Booth looks at you...it's beautiful."

"Well, after some...difficulties, we decided to be together. Christine was an unexpected surprise.", Brennan said with a smile. "It was hard to adjust to being part of a unit after being alone for so many years. I found myself pushing Booth away because...I was so used to controlling things like my emotions...my life."

Jessica nodded. "I know that feeling…"

Brennan nodded. "However, Booth was patient with me, although it was difficult for him because he felt rejected and left out. He also had his own issues with vulnerability and love due to his difficult relationships with both his parents. We eventually worked through it together and became a family, including finding a home to live as one that Booth….with help, rebuilt from nothing but the wood frame."

The redhead smiled as she thought of what was now Aubrey's house. "It's a wonderful home, Dr. B. It's perfect to raise a family in."

"It was.", Brennan said before continuing. "Things were a bit rocky when I took Christine with me and went on the run with my father after I was framed for murder by Christopher Pelant. Booth felt abandoned and when I got back...we tried to be like before but we couldn't. Once we talked about our feelings, the awkwardness eventually worked itself out. Then...we got engaged."

Jessica didn't like Brennan's tone. "Dr. B...you make it sound so ominous."

"We were working another case involving Pelant and the systematic executions of federal agents. I knew Booth wanted to be married, but because I was scared to, we lived together, although it went against his religion. Realizing that there were no guarantees in life, I decided to stop being scared. So, I went out to buy some jerky and met Booth in the courtyard, where I asked him to marry me."

"That's so cool, Dr. B."

"It was.", Brennan said before sipping her tea. "But later that night...Booth broke the engagement. He said he didn't think we should do it...it meaning marriage. It devastated me because I never got a reason why. I didn't know until later it was because Pelant threatened to kill innocent people. For reasons that are private, that is something that would devastate Booth...possibly even destroy him."

Jessica bit her lip. "Dr. B, not that I'm not grateful to listen, but what does that have to do with Aubrey and me?"

Brennan groaned internally, frustrated that she still had issues with empathy and understanding the right thing to say. "I'm sorry, Ms. Warren. I meant that to show an example of how to overcome but I see it didn't have the intended effect."

Taking a deep breath, she continued. "From what Aubrey told me that night at the bar, his mother never recovered from his father's abandonment. When she died...he was alone...much like I was when my parents left. To avoid the pain, he put his time into building his career and being the best...much like I did. He moved to various FBI field offices-"

"Detroit was his first field office." , Jessica said. "He loved Detroit because some of the crimes had the international aspect due to being so close to Canada...then he was transferred to the New York field office. Careerwise it was good, but personally, he hated it because not all of his childhood memories there were pleasant." The redhead considered for a moment before speaking again. "He told me it wasn't until he came here and became close to you all that he felt part of a family again."

Brennan smiled. "When I asked him that night about whether there was someone in his life, he blushed and confessed that he thought of you frequently after the Hayes Robertson case but he was...nervous. It's why he didn't ask you out right away."

"My history with men...isn't the greatest, so I became more comfortable with casual relationships...and having my freedom. After I broke up with Sweets, I wasn't very keen on work relationships outside of one night stands and I made sure it was obvious.", Jessica said as she sipped her tea, not noticing how cold it was. "However, I began looking forward to Aubrey's visits to the lab. After we became friends...I didn't go on another date...or sleep with another guy. I know now that...I was waiting for him to ask me out."

"Ms. Warren, he was...glowing when we talked about you that night, but he seemed anxious, much Iike I was with Booth. I counseled him to take his time and when he was ready, to start a friendship. He blushed again and I told him to go slow if he needed, but not to let the past keep him from being happy because friends made the best lovers."

"I shot him down when he actually flirted with me during the Hodsell case, but...he took it in stride. I couldn't stop myself from asking him to meet me at Founding Fathers when we concluded the case. After that, we hung out a lot, but it took him almost six months and a background check for him to finally ask me out on a real date.", Jessica said with a chuckle. "It took him six months after that, a bloodied nose, and a car that almost hit me for him to kiss me for the first time."

"Booth and I had to blackmailed by Caroline to kiss under the mistletoe.", Brennan said, keeping the pool hall kiss to herself..

Jessica cracked up. "No way, Dr. B."

"Way, Ms. Warren. Like I've previous said, Booth had fears, too.", Brennan replied with a smile. "His childhood was not a good one with a father who was an alcoholic, abusive, and possibly also suffered from PTSD from his time in Vietnam. His mother left the family when she couldn't tolerate the abuse anymore. When he was twelve, he and his brother Jared moved in with his grandfather Hank. Eventually, we realized that to be together we had to work on what held us back."

"Aubrey and I have done that. We had a long talk, Dr. B, remember?"

"Yes, I do. However, I don't think Aubrey is the only one scared of the future."

The older woman's words struck a nerve in the redhead. "I want a future with Aubrey and he wants one with me. We're in no rush to get married or anything like that. I have nothing to be scared of, Dr. B."

"I think that's incorrect, Ms. Warren", Brennan said. "I've noted more than once that while you usually are an optimist. However, you seem to prepare yourself for the worst with Aubrey, almost as if you are expecting to be disappointed somehow."

"I don't-"

"Ms. Warren, you do. You're assuming that you and Aubrey broke up this morning, but those words never came up from what you told me. You're assuming that he never wants to speak to you again because you told him how you felt about being shut out. You were in my office two weeks ago afraid to ask him to come to Thanksgiving dinner with your family because you were afraid of moving too fast after you reconciled. While you were apart, you assumed that he was involved with Karen Delfs because you were too afraid to be honest with him. You assumed when he told you he was serious about you that he was talking about marriage."

The words cut through Jessica as she realized that her mentor was right. "Dr. B...what do I do?"

"Ms. Warren, when Aubrey returns, you both need to sit down and really talk. The one you had after that Star Trek convention last month was a start, but you need to reconcile your fears before you can proceed with any talk of a future together."

"Star Wars, Dr. B.", Jessica said patiently. "Don't ever mix those two fandoms up. It's could start a fight."

"Of course.", Brennan said with a small smile. "After you do that, I want you to remember what I told you when you came to me before about Aubrey."

"Trust our friendship?", Jessica said. "It seems like I haven't been…"

"Yes you have, Jessica.", Brennan said, shocking her intern with the use of her first name. "You could have decided to end your relationship after his lack of acceptable behavior last night, but you didn't. You obviously love him and even I can see how much Aubrey loves you. Sometimes, it seems easier to just walk away from the complications of friendship and love. However, life is empty without both, particularly between best friends who are also in love. As Booth showed me, sometimes you have to fight for what you want and trust you love and friendship to see you through the bad times."

"It's really scary, Dr. B.", Jessica confessed.

"I know. I don't believe in faith or fate, but you and Aubrey have a strong friendship and emotional bond. Use that to help guide you, but I think you two will come out stronger for what's happened."

Jessica looked at the counter for a moment before turning to face her mentor. "Thank you, Dr. B."

The anthropologist was confused. "For what, Ms. Warren?"

The redhead smiled. "For telling me the truth...even when it hurts sometimes."

"Of course. If I didn't, I would be doing you a big disservice.", Brennan replied before looking at the clock. "It's almost 11:00, Ms. Warren. We should get some sleep."

"Okay."

The two women took care of their dishes and walked quietly to the guest room. "There is a half bath in the guest room that you can use to prepare for bed and you can use my shower in the morning."

"Okay. Good night, Dr B."

"Good night, Ms. Warren.", Brennan said before shutting the door.

Getting her overnight bag, Jessica went into the small bathroom and prepped for bed. After washing her face,she got out her toothbrush and brushed her teeth. She was halfway done when she realized something.

"Aubrey probably doesn't have a toothbrush. He hates not brushing his teeth at night."

Her boyfriend was very particular about his nightly routine and it rarely varied. 'PJs...brush teeth...nightly pee...usually like clockwork.'

Of course, the redhead knew there were exceptions to Aubrey's fussiness regarding his nightly rituals...usually due to the two of them being naked together.

Shaking off the sudden sadness, Jessica finished up and turned off the light. Pulling the covers back, she enjoyed the feeling of the Egyptian cotton sheets. Closing her eyes, the redhead soon fell asleep in exhaustion.

Several hours later, Jessica cried in her sleep, moaning softly. Suddenly, she sat up in a cold sweat. Taking a minute, she realized it was her phone alarm going off. Shutting it off, she wiped her face before she heard a knock on the door.

"Ms. Warren, it's time to get up. I've left you two towels in the master bathroom and a washcloth."

Taking a deep breath, she answered back. "Thank you, Dr. B. I'm on my way."

Grabbing her things, she came out of the bedroom to see Brennan waking up her children. "Dr. B, would you like help with breakfast?"

"Yes, if you are able, that would be appreciated."

"Okay, I'll be quick with my shower."

Going to the master bedroom, she admired the barn door before entering. Walking into the en-suite bathroom, she marveled at how large it was, bigger than Aubrey's, with a larger jet tub. Getting her things, she got in the shower and thought of the vibe that woke her up.

Aubrey was in danger.

Shaking her head, she finished her tasks. "Superman is fine. You're just worried because of what happened yesterday is all."

At 9:30, Jessica and Oliver were working on separate remains on the platform that came from a battlefield in France. They worked quietly in tandem until the silence was broken.

"Um...how is Daisy?"

Jessica stopped and turned to her fellow intern. "You are working at the NFL part time, Oliver. Why don't you ask her?"

"I am a busy person, Jessica. I don't have time for inane chit chat. When I'm at the NFL, I'm needed for my immense skills, and I have work to do."

"And I don't?", Jessica asked in a punchy tone. Tired and irritated from her fitful sleep, her fight with Aubrey, and what happened last night, she wasn't in the mood to be nice. "You are the one who didn't step up to the plate, Oliver. Beau did and they're now married. Move on."

Ignoring Oliver's mouth dropping, Jessica saw Genny walk in, followed by technicians accompanying her apartment door as well as her dresser into the lab. As Hodgins indicated where to send the items, someone from Howard's brought over one of Jessica's tires as well.

"Curly, all of this will take up the entire Ookey Room."

He was obviously angry as he turned to her. "Yeah… most of it, but that's all right. Whoever did this wanted to mess with you, Jessica. We take care of our own and we're gonna get the bastard."

As Hodgins wheeled away to follow the evidence, Genny put her hand on Jessica's shoulder. "I'm having the security footage from the parking garage sent to my office, but I won't be able to review it until this afternoon at the earliest. Aubrey sent me a text last night on a lead I need to follow up on and the lab got fingerprints off the letter he got yesterday, a securities trader named Joe Fuller."

'Letter? What letter?' Jessica thought before her boyfriend's name brought the sadness back. "Okay, that's fine. I appreciate your help, Genny."

"I have to pick up Hunter on the way. The SEC has been investigating this guy and his company for a while, and they want a piece of the action."

"Okay, I'll keep my fingers crossed for that lead...and for you and Hunter, too. He's really cute."

Remembering her talk with Aubrey, Genny smiled. "Yeah...Danny is having a hard time adjusting to Hunter, but the boss gave me some good advice Monday morning, since he was an only child without a father, too. I...feel good about Hunter. It's scary though…"

"Isn't it supposed to, though? That means it's real.", Jessica said with a smile.

"Then you hit it in spades because the boss adores you. The way he watches you when you aren't looking. If Hunter looks at me even half the time the way that Aubrey does with you…", Genny said before looking at her watch. "Shit, I have to go."

Jessica yelled back at the running agent. "Keep me posted, Genny."

"I will.", Genny yelled as she went out the sliding doors.

At 11:30, Jessica finished her exam. Leaving Oliver to do his own work, she removed her gloves and returned the remains to storage. Completing her notes in the case binder, she also sent a copy of the report to Brennan before putting the case file in the storage room. When done, she received permission to leave from Hodgins and met up with Angela after collecting her stuff.

"You really don't mind taking me to do this stuff?", Jessica said. "The Verizon store alone is going to probably take a while since it's almost Christmas."

"It's fine. You need to take care of all this ASAP, Jessica."

"Okay.", Jessica relented as the women walked out of the artist's office. "Can I get a catnip tea at the cart outside on our way out?"

"Sure.", Angela replied as Wendell came racing through the lab's doors. "Wendell, where's the fire?"

"Holy shit! Guys, check this out!", Wendell said as he ran onto the platform. Getting the big screen they use there, he switched the output to TV and found Channel 7, where a reporter was standing in front of the camera.

"It was in this building that thirty minutes ago, shots rang out on the third floor with one fatality and another wounded. Sources tell us the deceased was being questioned by the FBI agent and an official from the SEC in his office when the shooting took place. The agent involved in the shooting has been identified as Special Agent Genevieve Shaw."

As a picture of Genny showed up on the screen, Jessica panicked. "Oh, my God...Superman may need me."

Reaching for her phone, she growled when she remembered why there was no phone. "Son of a bitch!"

It was then that Angela came onto the platform. "Aubrey isn't going to be able to talk to you while all this is going on, so come on. Brennan will find out what's going on and keep us posted."

As the two women left the lab, Oliver became annoyed. "Dr. B, why does Jessica get to leave in the middle of the day?"

"None of your business, Dr. Wells.", Brennan said before walking to her office. Picking up the phone, she dialed and waited. "Booth? What's going on?"

*/*/*/*/*/*/*/*/*/*/*

As Angela drove Jessica's mind raced. The vibe she kept having grew stronger. She knew it wouldn't do her any good to flip out, but she wanted to get her stuff as well as a new phone as soon as possible. She was scared for Genny, but furthermore, she needed to talk to Aubrey.

She needed to know he was all right.