Numb3rs

Season 2

A "Rampage-inspired-fic.

Disclaimer: Numb3rs and its lovely characters don't belong to me.

A/N: It's been too long since I visited this story. I just couldn't make it work. Thankfully, I've been inspired by the beginning of season 5. In the passed one, I often felt that Charlie was very smug. That was not helping me finish this story. Now, I hope my muse will stick around because I miss writing Numb3rs stories. Wish me good luck!

For Dear Life.

Part 3

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Twenty-three days after the shooting, Charlie was back at the FBI building. Standing besides him, was his older brother. Barely a day after he had been released from the hospital, Don had insisted to go back to the office. Charlie had expected their father to object as he had – protesting that Don had barely enough strength to walk unassisted and that he could use more rest – but Alan Eppes had simply nodded to his oldest son's request. It was Don's time to get back on the horse. Their father still understood that need better than Charlie ever could.

"At least, let me come with you," he had finally resigned himself.

"I wouldn't have it any other way, Buddy," Don had told him with a genuine smile.

So there they were, nearing the bullpen. Charlie found himself almost as nervous as he was on his own first day back following the incident. Besides him, Don was as composed as ever. Despite his slower pace, the dark circle under his eyes and the remaining pallor of his skin, the FBI agent projected self-confidence and authority. However, Charlie was not fooled anymore. He knew Don's attitude was only a mask, forged by years of training – both as an agent and as an older brother. He would never show weakness in public. He barely ever did so in private. Though, it didn't mean that he was insensitive to his own fears and sense of vulnerability. Don had told him so back in the hospital. Charlie could only wish that his presence today would be a source of strength for Don as he had been for him that day – and on so many others.

Don slowed down his pace. Charlie scrutinized him with growing concern. Sweet was starting to shine on his forehead. Absently, he was gently rubbing his upper right arm. The limb was bent at the elbow and resting in a blue sling. It was matching the lighter blue dress shirt that Alan had carefully chosen to avoid offending contrasts with Don's pale face. Again, Charlie admired how well their dad knew and understood his sons.

"You know, I'm cool until everything quiets down. After that, my head is a bad neighbourhood to be in," his brother suddenly confessed.

"Having flashbacks?" Charlie asked, knowingly. He had been there before. Well, almost.

Don bit his lower lip. "Guess so… I remember hearing the first shot. I remember… you."

Charlie held his breath as Don took one as deep as his recovering chest allowed him. They both exhale, looking everywhere but one another. Don pushed aside his nervousness by turning his attention towards the people that were passing them by. He took the time to thank those who wished him a speedy recovery. Charlie waited, politely acknowledging with a nod.

"You want to go home?" He finally offered discretely.

"No." the agent replied firmly. Squaring his shoulders, Don met his brother's gaze and held it defiantly. "This is where I work, Charlie. This is where I ask you to come every other day. This is where I could have lost you…"

"This is where you almost lost your life," Charlie added.

"Yeah… It was a close call," his brother granted.

"Too close."

"Still, this is where I want to stay," Don stated. Picking back the pace, he went on. "This place – this job – it's still part of who I am. I was good at what I was doing."

"You're still good at what you do and will remain so in a week or two."

"Not if I can't stay," argued the agent. "Buddy, it's got to be today."

Charlie sighed. He knew it was an important step in the healing process. Yet, he could not help but feel conflicted as he helplessly witnessed his brother inner struggle.

"You know, I'm no different than you are," his older brother told him compassionately. "The longer I'll wait, the harder it's going to be for me too. I have to do it before I get too scared to walk in there and do my job."

"Scared… You told me you were afraid all the time, but I have yet to see you scared, Don. Nervous – I've seen you nervous plenty of times, but never scared."

"Well, take a good look, Buddy. I'm scared out of my mind."

This time, Charlie was the one to meet Don's gaze and hold it. "Some wise man once told me that it was okay to be afraid."

"He was right," Don agreed with a knowing grin.

Charlie returned the smile and pulled the door of the bullpen open for his brother. Don walked in, confidence in each and every stride. Charlie followed close by, admiring his brother's courage and determination. He could not be more proud of his older brother. Don was not only back on the horse, he was where he belonged. Charlie intended to remain standing by him and to keep faith in their deepening relationship for years to come.

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The End.

A/N: Thanks for reading!

October 2008