A/N: Miraculously, I've finished another chapter… this could almost be a personal best. A little shorter, but necessary chapter.
This story still isn't beta'd. All mistakes are purely my own!
Please feel free to give your feedback, good or bad. I can handle it :)
DISCLAIMER: I don't own any thing...I'm just borrowing for a while, and promise to return everything unharmed when I'm done!
"Hi, Maur. Results in yet?" Jane looked weary, but managed a smile for her friend.
"Jane!" Maura carefully studied her friend. "Your nasojugal folds are very dark, Jane. When did you sleep last? Let alone eat a nutritious meal?" Jane frowned slightly in thought.
"You've already told me before that vending machines don't count as nutritious meals, Maur, so I'm gonna plead the 5th on that one." Maura frowned.
"Jane!" she admonished. "You cannot expect to perform at your best if you do not take care of yourself. Physically and mentally. I know there is a lot happening in your life at the moment, but you are going to fall out!" Jane actually grinned at that.
"Burn out, Maur. It's burn out. And I'm fine. I'm heading off home now go get some sleep. I was wondering if we could do something later, even if it's just takeout and a movie. I feel like some down time with my LLBFF!"
"That is a wonderful idea, Jane. My place or yours?" Jane shot Maura an almost incredulous look.
"Mine of course! If I have to deal with my mother yet again tonight, I'll be arrested by the homicide squad! You must have the patience of a saint, living with her and dealing with her every day. Lord knows she's more than a handful at the moment!"
"Jane!" Maura was doing a lot of admonishing today. "Your mother is concerned for the wellbeing of her youngest child and only grandchild. She's trying to…connect…with you on this. She just wants your support and love." Jane rolled her eyes.
"I'll connect with something, all right!" On Maura's look, she waved her hands in front of her face. "Ok, ok…I'll try. No promises. But tonight! You, me, some takeout and drinks…a good movie. 7pm, my place. See you then!" Jane turned and headed towards the elevator. It was several seconds before Maura realised the results Jane had asked for were actually on her desk. She would just have to take them up to Korsak and Frost.
Jane arrived home and decided to take Jo Friday for a walk. It was late in the morning, but the day was shaping up as a beautiful one. The fresh air and exercise might help her sleep better, she reasoned.
"Come on, Jo, let's go for a walk!" Jane got out Jo's lead and attached it to her collar. She headed towards a local park, and leisurely strolled along for a while. Eventually, satisfied that Jo Friday had completed her business, Jane headed home. She was utterly exhausted and could use some sleep before tonight's dinner with Maura.
Jane checked her phone, but had no missed calls or messages. This was enough to elicit a small smile from the detective. She quickly changed into a Red Sox jersey and some boxer shorts, and climbed into her bed. Jane had barely put her head to the pillow before she fell into a deep sleep, her final thoughts before sleep claimed her were of her beautiful blonde LLBFF.