Bones Fanfic: Show Me What I'm Looking For (20/?)
Title: Show Me What I’m Looking For
Author: biba79
Disclaimer: Characters aren’t mine, they belong to Hart Hanson.
Pairings/Characters: Booth/Brennan
Rating: T
Spoilers: None
Summary: When Brennan fears she may be incapable of truly making love, she asks Booth for help only he can provide. What will his answer be? Season Six. Booth/Brennan.
Word Count: 3,117
Previous Chapters: One - Two - Three - Four - Five - Six - Seven - Eight - Nine - Ten - Eleven - Twelve - Thirteen - Fourteen - Fifteen - Sixteen - Seventeen - Eighteen - Nineteen
A/N: Thanks for reading and reviewing you guys. I’m glad you guys had a good laugh last chapter. Hopefully more laughter to come. I can’t promise anything, but I will try to update twice a week, depending on how my writing is going, so we will see what happens. Thanks again and enjoy the chapter.
Song “Ooh La La” by Goldfrapp
Just glitter lust
Switch me on, turn me up
I want to touch you
You're just made for love
I need la la la la la la
I need ooh la la la la
I need la la la la la la
I need ooh la la la la
You know I walk for days
I wanna waste some time
You wanna be so mean
You know I love to watch
I wanna love some more
It'll never be the same
A broken heel like a heart
I'll never walk again
Chapter 20
The next morning at the lab.
“Remember everyone, drinks and dinner just as soon as everyone is done for the day, my treat.” Booth announced as he headed back to the Hoover.
“Oh brother, some treat!” Angela grumbled.
“It’s not that bad!” Wendell argued.
“How would you know? How many times have you been to Booth’s annual I-appreciate-you-even-though-I-never-mention-it-dinner?”
“Never, but it’s a free meal.”
“If you can call it that, by the time we get to eat.”
“What do you mean?” Wendell questioned, wrinkling his forehead. The possibility he actually wouldn’t get to eat had him concerned.
“Oh, you’ll see,” Hodgins promised.
X-X-X-X-X-X-X
Later, at a popular DC restaurant, the gang was seated at their table. They had been served drinks before dinner and were surveying their menus.
Cam was sitting between Booth and Wendell on one side, Sweets was between Angela and Brennan across from them and Hodgins was sitting at the end. The other squints didn’t make it.
Shop talk was interspersed with conversation about the menu choices. Brennan found herself getting bored. She began daydreaming. Slowly she slid her heel off her foot. Nylon covered toes reach out to caress Booth’s leg. She kept her eyes glued to the menu. He continued his search for the perfect meal as his own foot made contact with hers, pushing gently against each other, teasing with a promise of more to come later. He had never enjoyed looking at a menu more.
The pretty young waitress approached the table, and Angela looked at her with a frown. “We’re sunk.”
“Good evening, my name is...” As her eyes met Booth’s, she lost her train of thought.
“Uh... oh...” Hodgins said, shaking his head.
“What?” Wendell asked.
“Here goes dinner!” Angela closed her menu, knowing it really didn’t matter what she ordered.
“Is everyone ready?” Booth asked, a little uncomfortable to be the waitress’s main focus.
“Uh... I need a little more time to consider,” Sweets stated, looking worriedly at the others, having no idea what he should be worried about.
“Certainly,” she said, still looking only at Booth, as she took temporary leave from the table.
“I swear!” Angela shook her head.
“What?” Booth asked, feeling her burning look.
“Why is it every time we go out, the waitress goes ga ga over you?”
“You jealous, Ange?” Hodgins joked; he was met with a livid glare.
“No, of course not, but what are the odds. No matter where it is, it’s the same - some woman drooling over Booth!”
“She wasn’t drooling!” Booth denied, embarrassed.
“Not much,” Cam said sarcastically.
“You guys,” Booth squirmed a little. “Back me up here, Bones. She didn’t even notice me.”
Brennan smiled slightly. “More like she didn’t notice anyone else. Don’t feel bad Booth. I think she found a new appetizer.”
Booth frowned, thinking at least he should be able to count on her to come to his defense.
After they placed orders with the smitten server, they sat back to relax, sipping on drinks.
“Hey Booth.” Bryan Marley, a former FBI friend, came up to the table. There was a vacant chair at the other corner, next to Booth, so he sat down. He was good looking, taller than Booth, with blond hair and green eyes. He had that boy next door appeal; Brennan liked him instantly.
He ordered a round of drinks for the table, and talk again turned quite uninteresting.
Bryan took in the sight across the table. “So, where has Booth been keeping you?” He asked, his appreciation of this beautiful woman evident in his eyes. He extended his hand; taking Brennan’s offered hand in his, kissing it. Booth’s comfort level was quickly dropping.
Brennan couldn’t resist, “Hidden away.” Her words hit home; she still hadn’t quite gotten over it. Booth looked into her eyes, embarrassed at how true they are.
“This is Dr. Temperance Brennan, she wasn’t my partner when you were with the FBI. It has been a long time Bryan.”
“I know; if I knew about her, I would have stayed with the FBI longer,” Bryan assured him.
Booth didn’t like the tone in Bryan’s voice. He looked over at Brennan, and his eyes told her again he was sorry for the closet fiasco.
She decided she had made him suffer almost enough. Her foot found his leg once again. This time she looked into his eyes, maintaining a poker face. She decided to test Booth’s power of concentration and
conversation as he continued to chat with Bryan.
A sock covered foot met hers under the table, this time much more vigorous in the game, Brennan jumped as one of her toes was bent back sending pain coursing through her foot. She pulled her foot away, quickly, glaring angrily at Booth.
Booth caught her look, opening his mouth to say something; he was interrupted by the arrival of dinner. Bryan bid them all good night, as his party had arrived. He turned back towards the table smiling at Brennan, and she smiled back; it didn’t hurt to be friendly.
The waitress served Booth first, and he looked down appreciatively at his sizzling steak.
After everyone was served, Angela rolled her eyes to heaven. “Here we go.” Resignation was in her voice.
All at once, they were playing ‘Whose Dinner is it Anyway?’ “Hodgins, I think I got your mashed potatoes...” Cam said eyeing her rice on Brennan’s plate.
“Yeah, and I got Wendell’s scalloped instead of my baked,” Angela stated in a long suffering tone.
“I have the baked,” Hodgins admitted picking up his plate.
“I can’t eat fish,” Sweets whined, looking longingly for his prime rib.
“Cam, isn’t that my salad?” Brennan said, joining in the bartering. She was trying hard to control her queasy stomach as she eyed Sweets’ barely cooked meat.
“What’s the matter?” Booth asked, wondering what all the fuss was about.
“You distracted our waitress again,” Angela said pushing her plate away.
“Me? What did I do?”
“Maybe if you wore a paper bag over your head, we’d get a decent dinner once in awhile!”
“I’ll take care of it...” Booth promised, taking his hosts responsibilities to heart.
“That’s what he always says,” Cam explained to Wendell.
The waitress finally made her way back. “Is everyone enjoying their dinner?”
“Oh yeah, we would be if we actually had our dinner,” Angela whined.
“Miss,” Booth said softly, trying to be diplomatic, “There seems to be a little mix-up.” He was apologetic, which blew Angela’s mind.
“What’s wrong?” The waitress seemed puzzled.
“Try everything,” Angela chimed in again.
“Not everything,” Booth said, trying to smooth things over. “Mine’s great... it’s just... some of the orders are a little mixed up.”
“Yes, you could say that,” Angela agreed.
“I’m so sorry.” The waitress apologized to Booth only.
“She says sorry to you? You’re the only one who got it right!” Angela pointed out.
“I’m paying Angela,” Booth reminded her.
“No, no, Cherie.” A sexy voice approached as possessive, perfectly manicured hands latch around
his shoulders. Expensive jewelry was dripping around her neck. Her long fingers showed off an array of sparkling diamonds.
Booth shifted around uncomfortably in his chair. He had thought it would be safe to come here.
He was sure Francesca was thousands of miles away. Sighing deeply, he braced himself for the usual onslaught.
Brennan looked up at the sophisticated, beautiful woman draped around Booth, and she suddenly
felt the fear squeeze her inside and out. Who was this woman?
“Francesca... when did you get back from France?” Booth asked forcing a bright smile, determined to be polite. That smile was just a little too happy for Brennan’s peace of mind.
Booth introduced her as the owner of the restaurant.
“Only two weeks ago.” Her French accent was bombarding Brennan’s digestion.
“So, I hear there was a wee bit of a capsize with your order?”
“Oh... yeah... it was nothing...”
“Nothing?” Hodgins had picked up Angela’s bad attitude. His first bite of meat was cold.
“We vill not have Booth unhappy, so zis is on ze house’ for all of you.”
“So, much for ‘I’m paying,’” Hodgins whispered to Angela.
Angela whispered back, “I have a feeling she plans on collecting.”
“That’s really not necessary...”
“Booth, no... there is no argument... you will not pay... at least not tonight.” She gave new meaning to the words’ double entendre.’
Booth caught Brennan’s scathing look and decided this was too good an opportunity to pass up.
“That is so sweet of you Francesca; it’s wonderful to see you again.”
“Ah... Oi, I knew somehow our paths would cross again - it is fate.”
Booth dared to look over at Brennan again; this time she was furiously sawing on her bun, trying to drown out the unpleasant saccharine sound that had her wishing she could make crumbs out of something besides her French roll.
“So Booth, do you have a minute to speak privately?”
“Uh sorry, we’re on business tonight... perhaps...”
“Later... ” She finished, kissing him soundly on the lips. She sashayed away from the table.
“OOOOH La La....” Angela teased.
“Who can resist those eyes?” Hodgins was more amused than angry.
Cam looked at Brennan, amused at how engrossed in chewing she was; she didn’t even hear Cam’s latest attempt at conversation.
“I’m sure all the diamonds weren’t real,” Cam said louder.
“Those aren’t the only things that aren’t real!” Brennan agreed, without giving thought to how it might sound. For once she really didn’t care. She was tortured with the idea that Booth might.
“Well, this was a nice evening...” Booth said lamely. “We should do it more often.” He realized only a masochist would want to go through another evening like this.
The band started to play some music.
Bryan reappeared out of nowhere. “Temperance, how about a dance?” He asked, holding out his hand to her. After witnessing Booth’s little French twist, she decided to go for it.
“Sure, that would be nice Bryan.” She smiled her most engaging grin, while Booth displayed his most engaging scowl.
Hodgins stared intently at his Coke.
“Come on, Hodgins, that glass isn’t big enough to hide in,” Angela ordered him as she pulled him to the dance floor.
Booth watched the dancers - two in particular captured his attention.
“If you didn’t want her to dance with Bryan, why didn’t you ask her?”
“What?” Booth asked, irritation evident in his voice.
“If you don’t want her in someone else’s arms Booth, for God’s sake, make sure she is in yours.”
“I am.”
“By letting Bryan claim her first.”
“She’s not a piece of land... maybe she likes him,” He said reluctantly.
“Yeah, about as much as you liked the attention of Miss Champaign,” Cam said knowingly. “If you want her so much... go cut in...”
“Cam... please... this isn’t the time or the place...”
“To get real? Do you intend to have Brennan or not?”
“Cam, keep your voice down. She’ll hear you.”
“Maybe it’s about time she did. Do you or don’t you... you’ve got to let this happen...”
“It is happening... sort of...”
“What?”
“We are... still... you know.”
“Really?”
“No one else knows... Cam... you have to ...”
“Booth, have I ever?”
“No... and I know you wouldn’t so... besides it’s just temporary...”
“Like only 40 or 50 years.”
“It’s just until we meet other... it’s recreational.”
“Only the two of you could call it that and believe it!” Cam started in, but was cut off by the return of Hodgins and Angela to the table.
“Ok, Cam you better get me while I’m on my feet,” Hodgins offered, eyes telling her she better go for the chance now or never.
“Bren and Bryan seem to be hitting it off,” Angela remarked.
“Yeah, I guess if she likes that sort...”
“What sort... oh you mean the rich, eligible bachelor sort?” Angela was amused at Booth’s grumpy attitude. “Anyone would think you’re jealous.”
“How do you even know he’s rich?”
“It’s obvious; I can tell from a mile away.”
“That’s ridiculous, and I’m not jealous!”
“Yeah... you’re right... you and Bren... what a mismatch that would be,” Angela said sarcastically.
Booth nodded as he watched the pair dancing just a little too close.
After everyone returned to the table, Booth wasn’t sure whether he should make excuses to leave now or not. What if Brennan had changed her mind?
He looked at her for some sign; she was still miffed about his past coming to haunt her.
“Well, I think it’s time...”
“It’s time for you to catch up with an old friend. Besides, I have business for you too... so it would be in keeping with your agenda oi?” The possessive hands caressed his cheeks as she sat in his lap.
Booth tried to back up in his chair but there was nowhere for him to go.
“She’s baaaaackkkk...” Cam whispered.
“No... actually,” Booth tried to refuse gracefully.
“I will not take no for ze answer. Booth, I need some advice, you would not turn down poor Francesca; it won’t take but a moment of your time. Please Cherie, I really need your expertise.” She pulled him up. Booth, always trying to be a gentleman, did not want to embarrass her, so he went along, assuring the others he would be back. He was unable to look Brennan in the eye. She watched them walking away.
“Well, good thing Booth didn’t have to pay for dinner,” Hodgins remarked.
“Why is that?” Sweets asked.
“Because from the looks of things, he’d be paying double.”
“I wish someone would make me pay like that!” Sweets exclaimed enviously.
Brennan stared at the empty chair across from her, wondering if he would return as soon as he promised.
Cam sensed Brennan’s discomfort and decided to change the subject.
“Hey everyone... remember it’s Booth’s birthday soon. I’ve been thinking instead of the usual lab party, it might be kind of fun to surprise him with a dinner.”
“At a restaurant?” They all questioned in unison, voices unenthused.
“No, give me some credit. I was thinking at one of our places. So it’s casual and comfortable. Booth would be embarrassed with anything too public.”
“Well, mine’s a little small,” Sweets said, hoping it wasn’t his place they had in mind.
“Ours’ too messy with the renovations,” Hodgins answered for him and Angela, readily admitted wanting no responsibility.
“Well, I’d offer my place, but it’s the same weekend I’m having it painted,” Cam explained.
All eyes were on Brennan, who had been distracted playing with the straw in her drink and looking up every so often, hoping he would appear at any moment.
She sat up straight feeling the heat of the stares upon her. “What?”
“You haven’t said what’s wrong with having Booth at your place.” Angela was hoping this was a good thing.
“Having Booth at my place?” Brennan felt the blush crawl up her neck, good thing the lighting was dim.
“His surprise birthday party,” Cam explained.
“Uh... I guess it would be okay to have it there.” Brennan felt cornered.
“Great,” Angela said, happy to be out of the running.
“What should we have to eat?” Sweets chimed in, already looking forward to it.
“If you ask me,” Hodgins said smiling broadly, “Booth should cook his own dinner.”
“Why is that?” Angela questioned.
Brennan was completely alert now; she wondered if perhaps Hodgins had had a few too many drinks.
“Because he’s a first class chef.” His laughter was barely contained.
“How do you know that?” Angela wondered.
“You sure?” Cam asked, not having heard this about her friend.
“Oh, yeah... I got to see his apron.” Hodgins’ face muscled ached from holding back the laughter.
Brennan gave him a warning glare.
“Apron?” Sweets asked doubtfully.
“Brennan can tell you; she saw it too.” Hodgins jumped into the hot water.
“You did? He was really wearing an apron?”
“Well, uh... I think he was trying to protect his clothing, you know an apron is an outer protective garment that covers primarily the front of the body.” Brennan explained tactfully.
“Yeah, his clothing...” Hodgins chuckled.
“When did this happen?” Sweets was still unsure this wasn’t some joke.
“Oh, just last night.... Brennan and I stopped by on business.”
“He was expecting you with an apron on?” Sweets was confused.
“Oh no, he wasn’t expecting us, that’s for sure...”
Cam was smiling broadly at the whole exchange. She knew exactly who Booth had been expecting. To rescue Brennan from even more embarrassment, Cam changed the subject to something safer.
“So, now we’ve got the place, what about the present?”
“How about oven mitts?” Hodgins asked, his laughter no longer contained.
“Is there something in Hodgins’ drink tonight?” Angela looked at his glass suspiciously.
Brennan looked at her watch for the twentieth time in that many minutes. Where was he? What was he doing? If the famous chef was gone much longer, it would be his goose that’s cooked. Her mind was again way off the topic of conversation.
“Ok, it’s settled,” Cam said checking off the list she had made on the napkin.
“Sweets will bring the wine and the rolls. Angela and I will make salads and potatoes. Hodgins and Wendell, you’re good for the steaks. That leaves desert. Bren, how about dessert?”
“Dessert,” She repeated vaguely.
“Uh... a cake for his birthday,” Cam said softly, helping her focus.
“A cake... Okay. I can do that,” Brennan agreed.
“Good. Well, the only thing we need now is the birthday boy,” Sweets said happily rubbing his hands together.
Brennan wondered if he even cared or knew he was missed.
A/N: Please let me know what you thought? What did you think of Francesca and Bryan? Review away. Thanks again.
Author: biba79
Disclaimer: Characters aren’t mine, they belong to Hart Hanson.
Pairings/Characters: Booth/Brennan
Rating: T
Spoilers: None
Summary: When Brennan fears she may be incapable of truly making love, she asks Booth for help only he can provide. What will his answer be? Season Six. Booth/Brennan.
Word Count: 3,117
Previous Chapters: One - Two - Three - Four - Five - Six - Seven - Eight - Nine - Ten - Eleven - Twelve - Thirteen - Fourteen - Fifteen - Sixteen - Seventeen - Eighteen - Nineteen
A/N: Thanks for reading and reviewing you guys. I’m glad you guys had a good laugh last chapter. Hopefully more laughter to come. I can’t promise anything, but I will try to update twice a week, depending on how my writing is going, so we will see what happens. Thanks again and enjoy the chapter.
Song “Ooh La La” by Goldfrapp
Just glitter lust
Switch me on, turn me up
I want to touch you
You're just made for love
I need la la la la la la
I need ooh la la la la
I need la la la la la la
I need ooh la la la la
You know I walk for days
I wanna waste some time
You wanna be so mean
You know I love to watch
I wanna love some more
It'll never be the same
A broken heel like a heart
I'll never walk again
Chapter 20
The next morning at the lab.
“Remember everyone, drinks and dinner just as soon as everyone is done for the day, my treat.” Booth announced as he headed back to the Hoover.
“Oh brother, some treat!” Angela grumbled.
“It’s not that bad!” Wendell argued.
“How would you know? How many times have you been to Booth’s annual I-appreciate-you-even-though-I-never-mention-it-dinner?”
“Never, but it’s a free meal.”
“If you can call it that, by the time we get to eat.”
“What do you mean?” Wendell questioned, wrinkling his forehead. The possibility he actually wouldn’t get to eat had him concerned.
“Oh, you’ll see,” Hodgins promised.
X-X-X-X-X-X-X
Later, at a popular DC restaurant, the gang was seated at their table. They had been served drinks before dinner and were surveying their menus.
Cam was sitting between Booth and Wendell on one side, Sweets was between Angela and Brennan across from them and Hodgins was sitting at the end. The other squints didn’t make it.
Shop talk was interspersed with conversation about the menu choices. Brennan found herself getting bored. She began daydreaming. Slowly she slid her heel off her foot. Nylon covered toes reach out to caress Booth’s leg. She kept her eyes glued to the menu. He continued his search for the perfect meal as his own foot made contact with hers, pushing gently against each other, teasing with a promise of more to come later. He had never enjoyed looking at a menu more.
The pretty young waitress approached the table, and Angela looked at her with a frown. “We’re sunk.”
“Good evening, my name is...” As her eyes met Booth’s, she lost her train of thought.
“Uh... oh...” Hodgins said, shaking his head.
“What?” Wendell asked.
“Here goes dinner!” Angela closed her menu, knowing it really didn’t matter what she ordered.
“Is everyone ready?” Booth asked, a little uncomfortable to be the waitress’s main focus.
“Uh... I need a little more time to consider,” Sweets stated, looking worriedly at the others, having no idea what he should be worried about.
“Certainly,” she said, still looking only at Booth, as she took temporary leave from the table.
“I swear!” Angela shook her head.
“What?” Booth asked, feeling her burning look.
“Why is it every time we go out, the waitress goes ga ga over you?”
“You jealous, Ange?” Hodgins joked; he was met with a livid glare.
“No, of course not, but what are the odds. No matter where it is, it’s the same - some woman drooling over Booth!”
“She wasn’t drooling!” Booth denied, embarrassed.
“Not much,” Cam said sarcastically.
“You guys,” Booth squirmed a little. “Back me up here, Bones. She didn’t even notice me.”
Brennan smiled slightly. “More like she didn’t notice anyone else. Don’t feel bad Booth. I think she found a new appetizer.”
Booth frowned, thinking at least he should be able to count on her to come to his defense.
After they placed orders with the smitten server, they sat back to relax, sipping on drinks.
“Hey Booth.” Bryan Marley, a former FBI friend, came up to the table. There was a vacant chair at the other corner, next to Booth, so he sat down. He was good looking, taller than Booth, with blond hair and green eyes. He had that boy next door appeal; Brennan liked him instantly.
He ordered a round of drinks for the table, and talk again turned quite uninteresting.
Bryan took in the sight across the table. “So, where has Booth been keeping you?” He asked, his appreciation of this beautiful woman evident in his eyes. He extended his hand; taking Brennan’s offered hand in his, kissing it. Booth’s comfort level was quickly dropping.
Brennan couldn’t resist, “Hidden away.” Her words hit home; she still hadn’t quite gotten over it. Booth looked into her eyes, embarrassed at how true they are.
“This is Dr. Temperance Brennan, she wasn’t my partner when you were with the FBI. It has been a long time Bryan.”
“I know; if I knew about her, I would have stayed with the FBI longer,” Bryan assured him.
Booth didn’t like the tone in Bryan’s voice. He looked over at Brennan, and his eyes told her again he was sorry for the closet fiasco.
She decided she had made him suffer almost enough. Her foot found his leg once again. This time she looked into his eyes, maintaining a poker face. She decided to test Booth’s power of concentration and
conversation as he continued to chat with Bryan.
A sock covered foot met hers under the table, this time much more vigorous in the game, Brennan jumped as one of her toes was bent back sending pain coursing through her foot. She pulled her foot away, quickly, glaring angrily at Booth.
Booth caught her look, opening his mouth to say something; he was interrupted by the arrival of dinner. Bryan bid them all good night, as his party had arrived. He turned back towards the table smiling at Brennan, and she smiled back; it didn’t hurt to be friendly.
The waitress served Booth first, and he looked down appreciatively at his sizzling steak.
After everyone was served, Angela rolled her eyes to heaven. “Here we go.” Resignation was in her voice.
All at once, they were playing ‘Whose Dinner is it Anyway?’ “Hodgins, I think I got your mashed potatoes...” Cam said eyeing her rice on Brennan’s plate.
“Yeah, and I got Wendell’s scalloped instead of my baked,” Angela stated in a long suffering tone.
“I have the baked,” Hodgins admitted picking up his plate.
“I can’t eat fish,” Sweets whined, looking longingly for his prime rib.
“Cam, isn’t that my salad?” Brennan said, joining in the bartering. She was trying hard to control her queasy stomach as she eyed Sweets’ barely cooked meat.
“What’s the matter?” Booth asked, wondering what all the fuss was about.
“You distracted our waitress again,” Angela said pushing her plate away.
“Me? What did I do?”
“Maybe if you wore a paper bag over your head, we’d get a decent dinner once in awhile!”
“I’ll take care of it...” Booth promised, taking his hosts responsibilities to heart.
“That’s what he always says,” Cam explained to Wendell.
The waitress finally made her way back. “Is everyone enjoying their dinner?”
“Oh yeah, we would be if we actually had our dinner,” Angela whined.
“Miss,” Booth said softly, trying to be diplomatic, “There seems to be a little mix-up.” He was apologetic, which blew Angela’s mind.
“What’s wrong?” The waitress seemed puzzled.
“Try everything,” Angela chimed in again.
“Not everything,” Booth said, trying to smooth things over. “Mine’s great... it’s just... some of the orders are a little mixed up.”
“Yes, you could say that,” Angela agreed.
“I’m so sorry.” The waitress apologized to Booth only.
“She says sorry to you? You’re the only one who got it right!” Angela pointed out.
“I’m paying Angela,” Booth reminded her.
“No, no, Cherie.” A sexy voice approached as possessive, perfectly manicured hands latch around
his shoulders. Expensive jewelry was dripping around her neck. Her long fingers showed off an array of sparkling diamonds.
Booth shifted around uncomfortably in his chair. He had thought it would be safe to come here.
He was sure Francesca was thousands of miles away. Sighing deeply, he braced himself for the usual onslaught.
Brennan looked up at the sophisticated, beautiful woman draped around Booth, and she suddenly
felt the fear squeeze her inside and out. Who was this woman?
“Francesca... when did you get back from France?” Booth asked forcing a bright smile, determined to be polite. That smile was just a little too happy for Brennan’s peace of mind.
Booth introduced her as the owner of the restaurant.
“Only two weeks ago.” Her French accent was bombarding Brennan’s digestion.
“So, I hear there was a wee bit of a capsize with your order?”
“Oh... yeah... it was nothing...”
“Nothing?” Hodgins had picked up Angela’s bad attitude. His first bite of meat was cold.
“We vill not have Booth unhappy, so zis is on ze house’ for all of you.”
“So, much for ‘I’m paying,’” Hodgins whispered to Angela.
Angela whispered back, “I have a feeling she plans on collecting.”
“That’s really not necessary...”
“Booth, no... there is no argument... you will not pay... at least not tonight.” She gave new meaning to the words’ double entendre.’
Booth caught Brennan’s scathing look and decided this was too good an opportunity to pass up.
“That is so sweet of you Francesca; it’s wonderful to see you again.”
“Ah... Oi, I knew somehow our paths would cross again - it is fate.”
Booth dared to look over at Brennan again; this time she was furiously sawing on her bun, trying to drown out the unpleasant saccharine sound that had her wishing she could make crumbs out of something besides her French roll.
“So Booth, do you have a minute to speak privately?”
“Uh sorry, we’re on business tonight... perhaps...”
“Later... ” She finished, kissing him soundly on the lips. She sashayed away from the table.
“OOOOH La La....” Angela teased.
“Who can resist those eyes?” Hodgins was more amused than angry.
Cam looked at Brennan, amused at how engrossed in chewing she was; she didn’t even hear Cam’s latest attempt at conversation.
“I’m sure all the diamonds weren’t real,” Cam said louder.
“Those aren’t the only things that aren’t real!” Brennan agreed, without giving thought to how it might sound. For once she really didn’t care. She was tortured with the idea that Booth might.
“Well, this was a nice evening...” Booth said lamely. “We should do it more often.” He realized only a masochist would want to go through another evening like this.
The band started to play some music.
Bryan reappeared out of nowhere. “Temperance, how about a dance?” He asked, holding out his hand to her. After witnessing Booth’s little French twist, she decided to go for it.
“Sure, that would be nice Bryan.” She smiled her most engaging grin, while Booth displayed his most engaging scowl.
Hodgins stared intently at his Coke.
“Come on, Hodgins, that glass isn’t big enough to hide in,” Angela ordered him as she pulled him to the dance floor.
Booth watched the dancers - two in particular captured his attention.
“If you didn’t want her to dance with Bryan, why didn’t you ask her?”
“What?” Booth asked, irritation evident in his voice.
“If you don’t want her in someone else’s arms Booth, for God’s sake, make sure she is in yours.”
“I am.”
“By letting Bryan claim her first.”
“She’s not a piece of land... maybe she likes him,” He said reluctantly.
“Yeah, about as much as you liked the attention of Miss Champaign,” Cam said knowingly. “If you want her so much... go cut in...”
“Cam... please... this isn’t the time or the place...”
“To get real? Do you intend to have Brennan or not?”
“Cam, keep your voice down. She’ll hear you.”
“Maybe it’s about time she did. Do you or don’t you... you’ve got to let this happen...”
“It is happening... sort of...”
“What?”
“We are... still... you know.”
“Really?”
“No one else knows... Cam... you have to ...”
“Booth, have I ever?”
“No... and I know you wouldn’t so... besides it’s just temporary...”
“Like only 40 or 50 years.”
“It’s just until we meet other... it’s recreational.”
“Only the two of you could call it that and believe it!” Cam started in, but was cut off by the return of Hodgins and Angela to the table.
“Ok, Cam you better get me while I’m on my feet,” Hodgins offered, eyes telling her she better go for the chance now or never.
“Bren and Bryan seem to be hitting it off,” Angela remarked.
“Yeah, I guess if she likes that sort...”
“What sort... oh you mean the rich, eligible bachelor sort?” Angela was amused at Booth’s grumpy attitude. “Anyone would think you’re jealous.”
“How do you even know he’s rich?”
“It’s obvious; I can tell from a mile away.”
“That’s ridiculous, and I’m not jealous!”
“Yeah... you’re right... you and Bren... what a mismatch that would be,” Angela said sarcastically.
Booth nodded as he watched the pair dancing just a little too close.
After everyone returned to the table, Booth wasn’t sure whether he should make excuses to leave now or not. What if Brennan had changed her mind?
He looked at her for some sign; she was still miffed about his past coming to haunt her.
“Well, I think it’s time...”
“It’s time for you to catch up with an old friend. Besides, I have business for you too... so it would be in keeping with your agenda oi?” The possessive hands caressed his cheeks as she sat in his lap.
Booth tried to back up in his chair but there was nowhere for him to go.
“She’s baaaaackkkk...” Cam whispered.
“No... actually,” Booth tried to refuse gracefully.
“I will not take no for ze answer. Booth, I need some advice, you would not turn down poor Francesca; it won’t take but a moment of your time. Please Cherie, I really need your expertise.” She pulled him up. Booth, always trying to be a gentleman, did not want to embarrass her, so he went along, assuring the others he would be back. He was unable to look Brennan in the eye. She watched them walking away.
“Well, good thing Booth didn’t have to pay for dinner,” Hodgins remarked.
“Why is that?” Sweets asked.
“Because from the looks of things, he’d be paying double.”
“I wish someone would make me pay like that!” Sweets exclaimed enviously.
Brennan stared at the empty chair across from her, wondering if he would return as soon as he promised.
Cam sensed Brennan’s discomfort and decided to change the subject.
“Hey everyone... remember it’s Booth’s birthday soon. I’ve been thinking instead of the usual lab party, it might be kind of fun to surprise him with a dinner.”
“At a restaurant?” They all questioned in unison, voices unenthused.
“No, give me some credit. I was thinking at one of our places. So it’s casual and comfortable. Booth would be embarrassed with anything too public.”
“Well, mine’s a little small,” Sweets said, hoping it wasn’t his place they had in mind.
“Ours’ too messy with the renovations,” Hodgins answered for him and Angela, readily admitted wanting no responsibility.
“Well, I’d offer my place, but it’s the same weekend I’m having it painted,” Cam explained.
All eyes were on Brennan, who had been distracted playing with the straw in her drink and looking up every so often, hoping he would appear at any moment.
She sat up straight feeling the heat of the stares upon her. “What?”
“You haven’t said what’s wrong with having Booth at your place.” Angela was hoping this was a good thing.
“Having Booth at my place?” Brennan felt the blush crawl up her neck, good thing the lighting was dim.
“His surprise birthday party,” Cam explained.
“Uh... I guess it would be okay to have it there.” Brennan felt cornered.
“Great,” Angela said, happy to be out of the running.
“What should we have to eat?” Sweets chimed in, already looking forward to it.
“If you ask me,” Hodgins said smiling broadly, “Booth should cook his own dinner.”
“Why is that?” Angela questioned.
Brennan was completely alert now; she wondered if perhaps Hodgins had had a few too many drinks.
“Because he’s a first class chef.” His laughter was barely contained.
“How do you know that?” Angela wondered.
“You sure?” Cam asked, not having heard this about her friend.
“Oh, yeah... I got to see his apron.” Hodgins’ face muscled ached from holding back the laughter.
Brennan gave him a warning glare.
“Apron?” Sweets asked doubtfully.
“Brennan can tell you; she saw it too.” Hodgins jumped into the hot water.
“You did? He was really wearing an apron?”
“Well, uh... I think he was trying to protect his clothing, you know an apron is an outer protective garment that covers primarily the front of the body.” Brennan explained tactfully.
“Yeah, his clothing...” Hodgins chuckled.
“When did this happen?” Sweets was still unsure this wasn’t some joke.
“Oh, just last night.... Brennan and I stopped by on business.”
“He was expecting you with an apron on?” Sweets was confused.
“Oh no, he wasn’t expecting us, that’s for sure...”
Cam was smiling broadly at the whole exchange. She knew exactly who Booth had been expecting. To rescue Brennan from even more embarrassment, Cam changed the subject to something safer.
“So, now we’ve got the place, what about the present?”
“How about oven mitts?” Hodgins asked, his laughter no longer contained.
“Is there something in Hodgins’ drink tonight?” Angela looked at his glass suspiciously.
Brennan looked at her watch for the twentieth time in that many minutes. Where was he? What was he doing? If the famous chef was gone much longer, it would be his goose that’s cooked. Her mind was again way off the topic of conversation.
“Ok, it’s settled,” Cam said checking off the list she had made on the napkin.
“Sweets will bring the wine and the rolls. Angela and I will make salads and potatoes. Hodgins and Wendell, you’re good for the steaks. That leaves desert. Bren, how about dessert?”
“Dessert,” She repeated vaguely.
“Uh... a cake for his birthday,” Cam said softly, helping her focus.
“A cake... Okay. I can do that,” Brennan agreed.
“Good. Well, the only thing we need now is the birthday boy,” Sweets said happily rubbing his hands together.
Brennan wondered if he even cared or knew he was missed.
A/N: Please let me know what you thought? What did you think of Francesca and Bryan? Review away. Thanks again.