A/N: We're getting real close to where I'm running out of new chapters, so I hope I can figure out a way to write faster...
Disclaimer: Bones is owned by Hart Hanson and Fox. I'm just goofing around...
Hodgins couldn't go right back to the Jeffersonian. He was afraid if he did he'd storm into Cam's office and offer his resignation. And given how recent events had gone down, there was a good chance she'd accept it unconditionally this time. He couldn't think of anyone who'd try to talk her out of it – not even Brennan.
So he went to the mental hospital. After signing in and going through the metal detector, he was led to a bare room with a metal table and two chairs. He slumped down, head in a hand. Man, this was a mess.
When Zack came in, Hodgins felt a smile come on. No matter how dark things appeared, the kid had a way of helping him see the brighter side. Now if only Hodgins could use his money and influence to get his best friend out of here…
"Hodgins!" Zack smiled as he slid into the chair opposite the bug man. The smile faded instantly. "This is not your usual time to visit."
"Yeah," Hodgins said, looking at the two pairs of hands on the table. His own, pale, fingers interlaced. Zack's hands still encased in black leather gloves due to the explosion he'd set off as a distraction for Gormagon.
"Your tone of voice indicates you are in emotional distress. Does this have to do with the Gravedigger?"
Hodgins rubbed his eyes. "I guess I shouldn't be surprised that you know something."
"Angela visited me on Sunday," Zack said. "She gave me an overview of what happened to Agent Booth and your role in it."
"Well, here's the latest," Hodgins grumbled. "I'm off the case. And they're thinking about offering that woman a deal!"
Zack frowned as he considered this information. "Your being off the case is to be expected, given the fact you stole evidence. As for a deal, I believe that prosecutors often offer deals, especially in cases they think they will have problems with."
"Doesn't mean it's right," Hodgins said. His hands balled into fists. "I could kill her, Zack. Did you know I still have nightmares about being in that car? Not being able to breathe? And now that Angela's not with me…"
"I'm sorry, Hodgins," Zack said, leaning forward slightly. "If I had not been committed to this institution, perhaps I could have helped you with the evidence you took from the FBI. Perhaps we could've found the Gravedigger before she kidnapped Agent Booth."
Hodgins sighed. "It's not your fault, Zack." He scrubbed his face. "I don't know what to do. How do I get justice in this? They won't even let me near the case. Not to mention Booth wants nothing to do with me."
"Agent Booth probably is angry, but my experience with him suggests he will be forgiving of your role in this eventually," Zack said. "Meanwhile, if there is any way I can help you gain closure to this case, I am more than willing."
"You mean if I manage to steal more evidence you'll help me analyze it?" Hodgins said with a faint smile.
"If that's what you require," Zack said.
Hodgins straightened up. "Hey, I was kidding!"
"I was not," Zack replied. "As your friend I am willing to do what is necessary to assist you in this. Please don't doubt that."
"I don't," Hodgins said, feeling the weight in his chest lighten slightly. "Thanks, buddy."
Zack nodded, his face somber. "You are welcome. Now, why don't you tell me what happened in detail, and we'll see if I can give you any insight to pass on to Dr. Brennan?"
It was the best offer Hodgins had had lately, and he gladly began talking.