911 2x11 rewatch, I can't help but notice all the parallels from s2 bathena to buddie through the years, especially s4-s6 developing.
From Bobby's problem with how Athena's mom treated her in that first visit, to Athena telling her mother that she wasn't running away, but running towards something, the family she built, the career she's chosen, she said she needed a space big enough where she could build a life that is important to her.
She wanted her to be a part of that life but only if she accepts all of it even Bobby.
And since Buck's parents first showed up, I can see Eddie's disapproval of their treatment of Buck and Buck's protective instincts when Eddie has to go face his dad in Texas in 5x17.
There's also the part where Athena tells Bobby that one day he will become a step-dad and won't be just best bud Bobby, and he has to start putting boundaries for Harry.
In parallel, there is that bit in "parenthood," where both Buck and Eddie tell Chimney that both parents can't be good cops. Eddie teases Buck about wanting to see what his idea of too much discipline looks like with Buck, hinting that Buck is the good cop in that relationship.
But in 4x14, we see Buck telling Christopher it's time to get ready for school when Carla comes to take him. So it seems like Buck managed to find it in him to be able to put some clear boundaries along the way, for when Eddie is not around. So there's also that.
Essentially, both men needed to find a place to develop their careers and build a home and a family, Buck's family (in addition to the firehouse) are the Diaz boys, their home is his and it feels like only a matter of time before this becomes a thing they have to worry about telling their parents of.
Personally, I can't wait 👀
Bonus:
