A/N: I wrote this story this past summer before Jared's problems and subsequent death were revealed in the new season. I decided to post it anyway, as a look at what could have been if Jared had been able to overcome his issues. No disrespect is intended.
"Those look like some nice steaks, Seeley. I guess you're going to be slaving over your fancy new grill getting those ready, right?"
"Well, nothing's too good for my little brother. I'm glad you and Padme could stop by on your way home. Bones and I have been wanting to see the twins."
"They're a handful, but I couldn't be prouder of them. We wanted to see your kids, too. Sorry we couldn't make it for Hank's baptism. It was too hard making another trip so close to Pops' funeral."
"We understood. So when do you start the new job?" Booth adjusted the flame and added the steaks.
Jared took a drink of his beer. "Next week. Aren't you proud of me getting an interview and job all by myself? It seems like you usually had to do that kind of stuff for me in the past."
"You may not believe this, Jared, but I've always been proud of you, even though most of the time you annoy the Hell out of me. I knew you would turn out okay, because of how Pops raised us. Seeing you with a beautiful family proves that.'
"If it makes you feel any better, you annoy the Hell out of me, too , but I've always admired you…..God, I must be drunk if I said that out loud. I've always bragged about you being my big brother. Pops did a good job with both of us."
They sipped their beer and watched the steaks sizzle. "I wish I had told Pops thanks last time I saw him, Seeley….I just didn't know it was gonna be the last time."
"Yeah...I guess you should tell people how you feel when you have the chance, right?"
"Yeah, I guess you're right….."