I'm writing this one on my own, folks. This is my take on a follow up to what happened after the party on 2x10. If you haven't seen the finale yet, you're in for a treat.

As always, the characters aren't mine. They belong to Tess, Janet, Warner Bros, and other such important people.

"Does it hurt?" Jane's eyes ran across the dark red line on the left side of Maura's throat, guilt crossing her face for the hundredth time that evening.

"No, not at the moment. I suspect the alcohol has something to do with that fact," Maura kept her eyes down as she continued picking up leftover trash from the birthday party. "It will probably sting when I shower tonight," she added as an afterthought.

"It will." The frown on Jane's face deepened, her hands stilling where they had been working to pack away the Pretty Pony collection her mother had managed to find. "You don't have to help, Maura. It's late, and I've got this. Ma's already gone back home and dognapped Jo. Why don't you go, too? I'm sure Bass misses you, and you look like you could use some sleep."

After picking up the final bit of trash and closing the sack, Maura looked up, eyes drained and much paler than the normally vivid hazel Jane was accustomed to seeing. "I don't want to go home." The doctor looked worn.

"Okay," nodding gently, Jane walked over to take the bag from Maura's clutched hands. "Then stay here, but let's get ready for bed. It's been a long day. You want to try to get some sleep?" She ran a hand over the smaller woman's upper arm, giving support through touch.

"I… no." Maura closed her eyes, shaking her head, and then wincing as her left hand went up to the cut on her neck.

The heartbreak in Jane's eyes could not be masked, even after Maura opened her eyes again. "Come to bed, Maura. Let's at least try to sleep." At the panicked look on her friend's face, Jane added with as much lightheartedness as she could manage, "It's either we at least lay down, or we stay up and watch all three season of My Pretty Pony that Ma managed to find on VHS. Which is it?"

"I think we've been through enough torture for one night," Maura deadpanned, but there was a small spark of humor in her eyes. "Do you mind if I take the shower first?"

"Nope, I'll even let you wear my favorite sleep shirt. It's 100% cotton, so you don't have to worry about chaffing." The detective smirked. Maura chuckled. "I'll finish up while you're getting ready for bed. Sound good?"

"Yes, that sounds good." Maura turned to the bathroom, took a few steps, and then turned back. "Jane… do you mind if I… I know I don't normally but…"

"Leave the door open. I promise not to peak."

"Thank you."

"Always."

I'm posting this one as I go. Your reviews are loved and appreciated.