Sometimes our job sucks ...
I've been working with Max for 15 years. Not the whole time of course, but for the most part we've been kicking each other's asses for over a decade. He's my best friend, he stood up for me at my wedding, and I've kept a secret for him this entire time. I knew the moment he met her and I knew when she broke his heart and I knew when they found each other's peace again. I helped cover for her with Ridland and I have sat on a step with him late at night while he stared into nothingness, worrying to god about things he can't change. Max Hart doesn't do helpless well. He's a Marine and a Marshal. There's always an answer. Always a fix. Except right now. Right now he can't change the way things are because we took an oath to do what we do first and all things come second. All things. He can't get on a plane to go save the day right now, even though I want to help him. But we have stuff to do that can't be covered or hidden tomorrow. So he has to sit, helpless, on the phone with her while they talk each other down. Max is a rather drama free guy and something like this is gonna test all his resolve. He's a big boy. He never needed me to lecture him but he has needed a friend; I hope tonight he can take my friendship and let it support him. I sure as hell wouldn't want to be in his place right now.