The showrunners said from a very early point that the two would not get together during the shows run, and I get the distinct impression that they actively enjoy trolling shippers. So this is pretty much exactly what I expected, and I'm perfectly happy with it.
(Also, look at Tendi in that last scene, when she gets a scan of Rutherford during a conversation about them being "just friends". She saw something on that Tricorder which she didn't expect, and then when Rutherford gets up and has his back turned, she's clearly checking him out. Draw your own conclusions.)
Honestly, for me, the finale covered it enough. It's obvious they like each other. I don't think it needs to be directly confirmed in dialogue for it to be legit. :)
Yeah, Also, this really lets people make their own future for the characters.
Those two don't need to necessarily fall in love and having a conventional monogamous romantic pairing. Just seeing a best friendship evolve is fun, and who knows? Maybe they have a fling and decide to remain platonic. Maybe they have a down-low FWB thing. This one little moment where they both see each other in a new way lets people imagine anything.
The showrunners said from a very early point that the two would not get together during the shows run
I had missed this. I'd hung five season's worth of ship-hope on them, but I regret nothing because they're adorable and they had better get together in the comics!!!!