Insert standard declaimer--I don't own them, etc, etc.

"And I promise that my eyes will never be caught by those shiny baubles again," Brennan said, looking Booth straight in the eye. "Happy Birthday, Booth."

Angela clapped a hand over her mouth. Did she really say what I think she said? She wanted to squeal. That's the closest I've ever heard her come to saying 'I love you.' She took a quick look at her coworkers. Only Cam and Sweets had altered expression. The rest seemed oblivious; even Booth. Of course, Booth had been moody and distracted since Jared arrived, and it wasn't just about his partner. Whatever's on his mind has to do with something his brother did, besides date Bren. It was driving her nuts, but the look on his face and the set of his shoulders told her she would get no answers form Booth. And Brennan, once told a secret, had a habit (sometimes annoying, sometimes a blessing) of keeping it to herself. There would be no answers there, either.

She raised her glass as they toasted their favorite G-Man. But she did give me the dirt from when she attacked Jared. I haven't seen her so mad in a long time. Even if much of it was at herself for falling for his line. I would have loved to see her push him off that barstool.

She was wondering where Booth-lite was when he strolled up to the bar and ordered a drink, an unattractive pout on his face. He was also rather obviously avoiding both Booth and Brennan, going so far as to chat up a woman at the bar.

*******************

"Where did Booth go?" Angela asked Brennan quietly as she was handed a piece of cake. Brennan shrugged, one-shouldered.

"Took Jared outside for a moment. I'll go after him if he's out there too long ."

"Just--listen to him, Sweetie. Something's bothering our favorite FB-eye candy."

A rueful smile touched Brennan's mouth. "And I know just what it is--or part of it at least." She looked through the door at the brothers. The elder one was very intense about whatever he was saying, and the younger one was acting confused. Acting is the key word, Angela decided. He doesn't want to understand what Booth is saying.

Outside, Jared drained his glass and shook it in Booth's face, then turned and came back in. Booth stayed outside, face tight.

"Cover for us, will you, Ange?" Brennan asked as her partner punched the side of the bus shelter. "And hand me a plate and a fork, please."

Angela did so silently, not bothering to mention the scientist already held a fork. "Be gentle, sweetie."

"I'll try." And with that, Brennan slipped out the door.

The next time Angela looked up, they were sitting hip to hip in the shelter. If it wasn't for the circumstances, she would have been ecstatic. Returning her gaze to the party, she noted Jared with yet another drink in his hands. I think I get it…