Chapter Text
“Has Jane done her video yet?” Maura asks nervously, pacing back and forth as Kent gets the camera set up and presses record.
“No,” He replies with an almost scoff-like laugh.
“Well, maybe I’ll wait for her and just see what kind of a tone she strikes.”
“I’m guessing aggressive and sarcastic,” Kent says with a small chuckle. “Probably not your style.”
Maura knew that was true. She also knew that that was how her best friend hid her feelings, but not Maura. Stalling just seemed like the best option for now.
“I just don’t know what to say,” Maura says, her mind racing.
“If it was me, I’d be like, hey Mom, I miss you! Russell, good luck with the baby! Scotland the brave!”
“That makes no sense in this context.”
Maura receives a sigh from Kent as a response.
“But it’s what's in my heart, and you should say what’s in yours,” He says gently.
There was a lot to say. Lots of things occupied Maura’s heart, but her mind went straight to Jane. She took a moment to gather herself and her thoughts, trying to find the best words that would apply to everyone she would be saying goodbye to. “Okay,” She says finally, and Kent gives her a slight nod to go on.
Maura takes a breath. “When I started this job, I thought it would be gratifying to help victims of homicide through my forensic work. Which it has been, and also so much more. This adventure has made me more alive. And you have been the big family I never had, and you’ve brought so much joy and laughter into my life. And for this I will be forever grateful.”
She fights the tears threatening to fall as she thinks through her next words.
“And maybe just this once, on the record, I am willing to speculate this. I’ll love you and I’ll never forget you.”
Maura makes eye contact with Kent, who is attempting to smile through his almost tears as well.
“How was that?” She asks, barely able to get the words out.
“Good,” He says, unable to say more.
“I’m really sad,” Maura says with a forced laugh.
Kent gives her a sad smile. “It’s definitely going to be empty around here. It’s like… I don’t know. I feel like everyone is just leaving, starting new chapters. And what am I doing?” Kent says, wiping furiously at his leaking eyes.
“Being promoted to the job you deserve. You’ve worked so hard. I’m very proud to be passing the title down to you.”
“I know, and don’t get me wrong- I’m extremely grateful. I just… it’s the end. And I’m not sure I want it to end.”
“Me either. I can't imagine going through life without any of you. Especially Jane… my god, Jane,” Now it’s Maura’s turn to wipe aggressively at her own tears.
“You really love her, don’t you? Like… in love type of love,” Kent states rather than asks.
All Maura can do is nod, in fear of fully falling apart.