Buddie: Partners in Fire

Chapter 50

Scene: Evening

As the day turned into evening, Christopher had already gone to bed, tired from the excitement. The remaining guests were still chatting and laughing, the atmosphere warm and relaxed. Buck and Eddie were sitting next to each other on the sofa, surrounded by their friends.

Buck's head rested on Eddie's shoulder, his eyes heavy with sleep. Athena noticed and nudged Bobby, nodding towards the couple.

Athena: "Looks like someone's ready for bed."

Bobby smiled, glancing at Buck's sleepy face.

Bobby: "He's earned it. It's good to see him like this."

Athena's eyes softened as she watched Buck, her voice filled with warmth.

Athena: "He's one of our kids, Bobby. We're lucky to have him."

Bobby nodded, wrapping an arm around Athena.

Bobby: "We are."

Athena stood up, gently calling for everyone's attention.

Athena: "It's getting late, folks. Let's give Buck and Eddie some peace."

The guests began to gather their things, each taking a moment to say goodnight to Buck and Eddie. Maddie approached first, her eyes misty with emotion.

Maddie: "Sleep well, little brother. I'm so proud of you."

Buck managed a tired smile, his voice soft.

Buck: "Thanks, Maddie. Love you."

Chimney stepped forward next, giving Buck a gentle pat on the back.

Chimney: "Take care, Buck. We'll see you soon."

Hen followed, her expression serious but kind.

Hen: "Call if you need anything, okay?"

Karen, holding little Jee-Yun, came up to Buck, her smile warm and affectionate.

Karen: "You take care, Buck. We're all here for you."

Jee-Yun, sensing the mood, reached out her tiny hand towards Buck, who chuckled softly and gently took her hand.

Buck: "Thanks, Karen. Thanks, Jee-Yun."

Michael, May, and Harry were next, each giving Buck a hug.

Michael: "Welcome back, Buck. You're a fighter."

May: "It's so good to see you home."

Harry: "Yeah, we missed you."

Buck nodded, feeling the weight of their support.

Buck: "I missed you all too."

Josh approached, giving Buck a quick hug.

Josh: "Don't hesitate to call if you need anything, Buck."

Buck smiled appreciatively.

Buck: "I will, Josh. Thanks."

Denny gave Buck a shy wave, and Buck returned it with a smile.

Buck: "Hey, Denny. Thanks for coming."

Scene: Buck and Eddie's house, Night

As the evening settled into night, the party had wound down. The once lively chatter was now a soft murmur, and the room was filled with a relaxed ambiance. Most of the guests had left, and only Maddie remained, taking a quiet moment to say her goodbyes before heading out.