Buddie: Partners in Fire

Chapter 60

Once everything was packed, Eddie and Buck called Bobby to let him know what was going on. Bobby arrived quickly, his concern evident as he stepped into the apartment. The usually upbeat and confident Bobby looked somber, his eyes reflecting the weight of the news.

Bobby: “Hey, guys. I came as soon as I could. What’s going on?”

Buck took a deep breath, running a hand through his hair as he began to explain.

Buck: “Bobby, thanks for coming. Eddie’s abuela passed away last night. We need to go to El Paso for her funeral, which is tomorrow days. We’ve arranged for Christopher to stay with Maddie and Chimney while we’re gone.”

Bobby’s face softened with empathy, and he nodded, listening carefully.

Bobby: “I’m so sorry to hear about your abuela, Eddie. Losing someone close is never easy. How are you holding up?”

Eddie: “It’s been rough. I’ve been trying to stay strong, but… it’s hard. I need to be there for my family, and Buck is coming with me to support me.”

Bobby’s gaze shifted to Buck, noting the strain on his face. He remembered that Buck was supposed to return to work in just two days after his accident. Bobby understood how much this trip meant, not just for Eddie but for Buck as well.

Bobby: “Buck, I know you were due to come back to work in a couple of days. I appreciate you putting everything on hold to support Eddie. But don’t worry about it; we’ll manage things here. Your recovery is important, and we can handle things until you’re back.”

Buck nodded, though the guilt was evident in his eyes.

Buck: “Thanks, Bobby. I know I was supposed to start back soon, but I couldn’t leave Eddie to go through this alone. I just… I want to be there for him and help however I can.”

Bobby placed a comforting hand on Eddie’s shoulder, his expression a mix of understanding and sympathy.

Bobby: “You’re doing the right thing, Buck. And Eddie, you don’t need to worry about work while you’re gone. We’ve got everything under control. Just focus on your family and take all the time you need.”

Eddie’s voice was thick with emotion, but he managed a grateful smile.

Eddie: “Thank you, Bobby. It means a lot to hear that. I just want to be there for my family and make sure everything is taken care of.”

Bobby squeezed Eddie’s shoulder reassuringly.

Bobby: “Of course. And remember, if you need anything at all—whether it’s help with arrangements or just someone to talk to—don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re all here for you.”

Buck watched the exchange with a heavy heart, appreciating Bobby’s support but feeling the weight of the situation pressing down on him. He knew how much this meant to Eddie and how difficult it was for both of them. When Bobby turned to leave, he gave Buck a reassuring nod.

Bobby: “Take care of each other. We’ll be here when you’re ready to come back. And don’t worry about work—we’ve got it covered.”

Buck nodded back, trying to hold onto the reassurance Bobby’s words provided.

Buck: “Thanks, Bobby. We’ll be in touch. And thanks for understanding.”

Bobby gave one last, sympathetic look before heading towards the door. As soon as he was gone, Buck felt the reality of the situation hit him even harder. He finished packing the last of their things, his movements mechanical as his mind kept drifting back to Eddie’s grief, Christopher’s tears, and the uncertainty of what lay ahead.