Dinner was relaxed and Jane was surprised how at home she felt. Emily Brent was nothing if not an exceptional host. She entertained Jane and Maura with stories of her many travels and listened attentively as Maura gave up bits and pieces of their lives. They all laughed at Jane’s attempt to explain the relationship between Jo Friday and Bass. With Maura occasionally throwing in a ”Tortoise, Jane” when Jane referred to the animal in question as a turtle. She knew it irked Maura that she said turtle and she knew Bass was a tortoise, but it had become a little game between them. With Jane refusing to admit that Bass was a tortoise and Maura intent on showing her the differences between the two species.

As they made their way upstairs back to their room Maura had her arm hooked through Jane’s and they enjoyed a companionable silence. Jane had not heard Maura talk about so many mundane topics ever. Maura looked happy and relaxed and Jane realized that the last month had definitely not been a picnic for Maura either. Even if the therapy with Emily didn’t work out she would forever be grateful to the doctor for relieving some of her best friends stress and worries. Even if it was only for a short time.

”Do you need help getting dressed?” Maura asked innocently as they stepped into the room.

”Uhm… No thanks I think I can manage on my own.” Jane said quickly missing the teasing gleam in Maura’s eyes.

”Well if you need me I’ll be in the bathroom getting ready for bed.” Maura said over her shoulder with her nighties and vanity in her arms.

”Okay. Thanks, I guess.” Jane muttered. Making sure the door the on suite was closed before peeling off her clothes. She quickly dragged an old faded Boston P.D. T-shirt over her head and pulled on a pair of clean boxer shorts for the night ahead. She threw her dirty clothes in the laundry basket next to the wardrobe and made her way over to the large bed. She scooted over to her side of the bed placing her cell and wallet on the nightstand. As she turned over the bathroom door opened and Maura stepped back into the room.