I'm in complete shock over the amazing reviews from Chaper 26. THANK YOU so much! Y'all ROCK! Hope you enjoy this next chapter. Definitely for those who have fallen in love with Ben.

Chapter 27

Even the comfort of Booth's arms couldn't chase away the unrelenting terrors running through her mind. Somewhere around two o'clock she gave up the prospect of sleeping knowing all too well the storyline of her dreams. Shifting out of his grasp, she made her way downstairs. As she padded her through the living room, she reached the large storage table that was situated in front of the couch. Lifting the closure, she pulled out a large black photo album and settled into the couch. She let her fingers trace the engraved lettering across the cool silver plaque that adorned the top cover. The words Our Family was inscribed in ornate lettering.

Flashback

"Ma'am," the clerk addressed, "would you like the plaque engraved?"

"Yes," Brennan replied as she flipped the various reprints of Booth's childhood she had picked up from the photo shop. "Have it read Our Family."

End of Flashback

As she flipped open the album, her eyes met his through the protective plastic barrier. Pictures of Booth growing up intermingled with the few pictures of her childhood. Turning each page of history, she crept closer to the present. Before long, Parker graced the album with his blonde curls and charm smile. Most of the pages were filled with memories she didn't share, but the last picture promised memories they would all share together as a family: Booth, Parker, and her. The photo was mesmerizing; taking her back to a place and time when everything seemed so carefree. Of course that's the true beauty behind pictures; capturing the moments when everything is perfect. The pages to follow were empty; longing for their own memories. She wasn't certain of the memories they would contain.

Placing the album back in its rightful place, Brennan stole a glance at the clock. Just three o'clock she thought silently. Seeking the solace of her bed and Booth's arms, she escaped up the stairs.

The hours passed with sluggish speed while her body stole sporadic moments of needed rest. Booth noticed her fitful movements between sleep and consciousness, and wished he could take away the pain that attacked her heart. She on the other hand wished for morning; wished for it all to be over and done with.

Morning finally came in a not so glorious form. Dark clouds threatened the sky as thunder rumbled in the distance. Brennan had showered and dressed an hour or so before Booth stumbled out of bed. He found her nursing a large mug of coffee at the patio doors as she watched the clouds roll by.

"You think it's a sign?" she asked feeling his presence behind her.

"You don't believe in signs," he reminded.

"True, but science sure isn't giving me any quick answers," she stated turning to face him.

"Don't worry until we have something to worry about, okay?" he pleaded wrapping his arms around her.

Resting her tired head on his shoulder, she nodded.

The pair sipped coffee at the kitchen island, but barely spoke until Booth noticed the time.

"I'll go get Ben," he whispered.

"No, we'll both go," she corrected walking around the island to him.

Brennan led the way up the stairs; Booth's fingers intertwined with hers as he followed.

ooOooOooOoo

Ben was swinging Booth and Brennan's arms back and forth as they approached the hospital entrance. He wasn't worried, because no matter what happened he would be going to his home with his parents tonight. He had his perfect life now. Prior to Tempe and Booth, he had accepted that he would not have the love and affection of parents. He had been a mistake and mistakes weren't worthy of those emotions. What Ben didn't realize was that he was part of a well thought out plan. He was the vital piece that would bring three lives together through hurt, loss, courage, strength, and love. Ben would be loved beyond his dreams. Ben was loved and the smile that danced across his face told the world.

Ethan was waiting in his office as the family checked in at the nurses' station. Kate smiled when she saw them.

"Ben! How's it going?" Kate asked bending down toward the little boy.

"Awesome!" Ben responded.

Like father; like son thought Brennan.

"What ya say you and I go ahead and get everything going while Tempe and Booth talk to Dr. Johnson?" she suggested.

Ben looked to Booth and Tempe. Giving their okay with a nod, Ben followed Kate down the hall.

"I'll bet we can even get you some pudding," Kate announced leading Ben away.

"Really?" Ben asked enthusiastically.

Laughter followed as the two ventured further away.

Ethan approached the pair watching Kate and Ben fade down the hall. Booth and Brennan felt his presence, but weren't quite ready to take their eyes off Ben. Ethan waited patiently to be acknowledged; it didn't take long. Brennan was anxious to know the results from the blood work done after Ben's last treatment, and the anticipation was getting harder to handle.

"Why don't you come into my office," Ethan announced when he had their attention.

Brennan feared the news would be bad. Why else would he need to tell them in private?

Ethan gestured at the two chairs setting in front of his desk as he closed the door behind them. Perching on the corner of the large cherry desk, Ethan tapped at the bottom of a manila file folder held securely in his right hand.

"Seeley, Temperance," he nodded before continuing, "I have some news concerning Ben's progress."

A haggard sigh escaped Brennan lips as she awaited the inevitable.

Ethan flipped the folder opened, but couldn't mask the grin that tugged at his lips.

"His red blood cell count is up and his white blood cell count is down," he stated in a light tone of relief. "By all indications, he's in partial remission."

Ethan always enjoyed breaking good news to the parents. He wanted to see these results for all his patients, but something about this family made him yearn for it.

Booth gathered a shock stricken Brennan into his arms. Laughter penetrated the tears that were cascading down both their faces.

Ethan gave them a moment to celebrate before continuing.

"Now," he cleared his throat, "That doesn't mean he's got a clean bill of health, but he is on the path to recovery. Kate is taking more blood samples and we'll go ahead with his treatment today. I'll call with the results from the tests as soon as I get them."

Ethan's demeanor changed as he spoke the next sentence, "If these next tests show the same pattern, I feel confident that Ben will go into complete remission after completing the remaining rounds of chemo."

Brennan reached out covering Ethan's hand with her own.

"Thank you," she whispered.

"Don't thank me," he soothed. "Thank that little fighter you've got."

With that Ethan stood and exited the office leaving the pair to bask in their good news.

Come on, be honest. Whatcha thinkin'?