Luke/Reid Fic: "Found," 10/10
Here's the conclusion. Thanks so much to everyone for the support and enthusiasm for Found over the past few months! Writing it really helped me feel so much better about the craptacular ending of ATWT, and it means a lot that so many of you have enjoyed this story and been moved by it. Special thanks to mcfeste, paddies, fenwic and susanderavish.
I'm planning on writing a one-shot Christmas sequel, so this universe isn't quite over yet. :)
Part one
Part two
Part three
Part four
Part five
Part six
Part seven
Part eight
Part nine
One month later
“Damian and my grandma are seriously cooking together?” Luke laughs delightedly.
“Yep. I’m a little concerned that Damian will be sleeping with the fishes by the time we get back. Emma’s good with a kitchen knife.”
“I can’t believe they’re throwing me a surprise party. And I can’t believe you told me.”
Reid turns onto the highway. “Ugh, parties are torturous enough as it is, let alone when they’re sprung on you. It’s your first day out of rehab; you need time to readjust. But the Snyders are nothing if not persistent. Not to mention Ms. Walsh. I insisted on immediate family only, and I’m kicking them out as soon as lunch is done. You need to rest.”
Luke smiles. “I feel great.”
“You look great.”
“So do you. Even better than last week.” During their nightly ten-minute phone calls, Reid complained frequently about Tony’s physio schedule, while conceding that he was recovering rapidly. “It’s almost like…nothing ever happened.”
Reid smiles softly. “Almost.”
They’re quiet for a few minutes, watching the snow-patched landscape go by.
“Sure you’re feeling okay?” Reid asks.
“Yep. Side effects aren’t too bad. After the first week of constant nausea and shakes, it’s just been a little dry mouth, and I get tired. But I’ve been tired for a long time now. I feel better than I have since…” He trails off. “Anyway, this is only temporary while I’m on the drug protocol. Dr. Rhodes said I’ve made great progress, which you already know, since you’ve harassed her every second day.”
“Have to keep on top of things. Make sure nothing slips through the cracks. I’m a patient advocate, Luke.”
Luke chuckles. That wasn’t the name Dr. Rhodes used. “But as long as I don’t drink, I’ll be okay. And I won’t.”
“I know.”
At the thought of drinking, Luke closes his eyes and does his mental exercises, breathing deeply and overcoming the craving. He exhales and opens his eyes, feeling peaceful and strong. Reaching over, he runs his hand slowly through Reid’s growing curls. “You look like you did when we met.”
Leaning into his touch, Reid breathes deeply. “Keep that up and I’m going to have to pull over in one of these fields.”
They’d kissed briefly by the front door of the rehab centre, and Luke has been itching to touch Reid since they’ve been in the car. “And that would be bad because...?”
“We should go slowly. You’re still taking a lot of medication, and you shouldn’t exert yourself too much.”
“Right.”
“Right.”
Luke’s hand drops to Reid’s thigh, and he inches towards Reid’s cock. “Best to go slowly.”
With a glance over his shoulder, Reid changes lanes and slows as he pulls onto the shoulder and travels onto the grass, Luke’s car bumping over some dips on the rolling field. Most of the snow melted during a warm spell the week before, but the tires spin a bit in the wet mush.
Once they’ve clambered into the backseat, they kiss and rub against each other, breathing harshly. Luke presses Reid down against the leather, fumbling for the zippers on their jeans. Reid groans as Luke holds their cocks together in his hand, stroking roughly.
“Jesus, I missed you.” Reid pulls Luke’s head down for another kiss.
Luke thrusts his hips, rocking back and forth on Reid’s lap, squeezing their cocks together. “Me, too. I missed you so much.”
They’re both leaking already, cocks hard and hot in Luke’s hand. They rut together like they did the first night in front of the fireplace, and Luke kisses Reid roughly, gasping into his mouth as the pleasure spreads through his limbs.
Reid moans and slides his hand down the back of Luke’s jeans. He pushes the tip of his finger inside, and Luke comes with a cry. As Luke shudders, he continues stroking Reid, spreading his wet seed over Reid’s cock. Reid’s hips lift as he seeks his own release, and Luke wriggles back until he can lean down. He swallows Reid, tasting himself as he sucks on Reid’s dick.
He runs his tongue up and down the thick vein on the underside of Reid’s cock, and then Reid’s pulsing into Luke’s mouth, and Luke swallows as much as he can. He sucks gently on the tip, kissing it and pushing his tongue into the slit. Reid exhales slowly, hands gentle in Luke’s hair. “You’re so good, Luke.”
Luke kisses Reid, warm and pliant and real beneath him, and wishes they could go straight to bed.
*
“Just when you think it’s over.”
Luke turns from the window and the view of snow falling steadily, covering the trees and ice once more. He smiles at Reid standing in the doorway of the bedroom. “Yeah, welcome to winter in Illinois. Texas was probably a little warmer, huh?”
Reid holds up his fingers. “Just a tad.” He nods towards the stairs. “Everyone’s getting ready to go. Don’t want to get stuck in the snow. You okay?”
“Yeah. I just needed a minute. I’m good.” Luke hadn’t expected it at all, but seeing his family again has been a bit overwhelming. He missed them all terribly, but after the reflection and solitude of rehab, it’s a lot to take in. “So, the security guys are gone?”
“Yep. Damian assures me that Invicta will not come knocking. And he seems to have scared off the media, too. Told them my supposed death was all a misunderstanding, and that I would be doing interviews never. He’s very persuasive.”
“That he is,” Luke chuckles.
Reid holds out his hand. “Come on.”
Downstairs, Holden and Lily are corralling the kids by the door, zipping up coats and putting on boots. Ethan barrels over and hugs Luke’s legs. “Bye, Luke. I miss you.”
Luke bends over and hugs his brother tightly, swallowing the sudden lump in his throat. “I’ll see you soon, buddy.”
Ethan peers up at Reid for a long moment, the silence stretching out until Reid smiles and awkwardly pats Ethan’s head. “Bye. Buddy.”
Ethan speaks in a rush, still peering up at Reid. “CanIaskyousomething?”
“Sure.”
“Are you a zombie? My friend Tommy says you are.”
Lily gasps. “Ethan! That’s ridiculous. Apologize right now to Reid.”
“No, no. No need for apologies. Ethan, tell Tommy I’ll be over tonight to eat his brains.”
Faith and Natalie giggle as they hug Luke in turn. They wave to Reid and take Ethan outside. Lily and Holden say their goodbyes, hugging Luke tightly. Holden claps Reid on the shoulder and Lily kisses his cheek. Emma follows suit, and they bustle out to the car, waving and saying that they’ll see them soon as Lucinda and John finish buttoning their coats.
“Well, darling. It’s wonderful to have you home. And I expect to be seeing more of you in Oakdale. No hiding out here at your fortress of solitude, you hear me?”
“Yes, Grandmother. Bonus points for the Superman reference.”
“Well, you know me. I’m hip, sweetie! I’m hip.” She turns to Reid and kisses both his cheeks. “We’ll do lunch soon.” She kisses Luke. “Both of you.”
John nods to Reid. “I’ll see you tomorrow. Ten a.m.”
“I’ll be there.”
Luke squeezes Reid’s elbow. “Are you going back to work? Why didn’t you tell me?”
“We’ll talk about it this afternoon.”
“Okay.” Luke is puzzled by Reid’s muted reaction, and he tries to bat away the unease that returns so easily.
Damian appears from the kitchen as John and Lucinda leave. He smiles widely. “Well, we were all able to have lunch without one argument. This is a historic day, Luciano.”
Reid heads to the kitchen. “I’m going to start on the dishes.”
When they’re alone, Luke smiles at his father. “Thanks. For being on your best behaviour, even when Grandmother provoked you.”
“It was a challenge, but anything for you, Luciano.” He glances towards the window. “I should leave as well, before the roads are too bad.”
“You don’t have to go if you don’t want to.”
“I’m afraid I do. I’ve neglected the company for some time now. I need to make a trip to Malta to see that everything’s in order. And then, if it’s all right with you, I was planning on returning. I’ll need to travel to Europe fairly often, but I want to make my home in Oakdale.”
Tears prickle Luke's eyes. “I’d like that. Just promise me you won’t…mess it up.”
“I promise, Luciano.” Damian steps close and takes Luke’s face in his hands. “I promise.”
“Ti voglio bene, papà.”
Damian sucks in a breath as tears slip down his cheeks. He hugs Luke to him tightly. “I love you too, my son.” They hold each other for a long moment, and Damian presses a kiss to Luke’s head.
“Are you done with the big emotional goodbye?” Reid calls from the kitchen.
Luke and Damian step away from each other, laughing. “Yes. It’s safe now,” Luke calls back.
When Reid returns, Damian extends his hand to him. “It has been a pleasure getting to know you. I’ve enjoyed our conversations very much. I’m very happy my son has you in his life. Stammi bene.”
“Anche tu. A presto.” After a moment of hesitation, Reid pulls Damian into a quick hug. He pats Damian’s back clumsily and steps back. “And thank you. For everything you’ve done for me. And for Luke.”
Damian smiles. “That’s what family is for.”
As Luke stands by the door a few minutes later, listening to the engine of Damian’s car fade into the distance, he leans back in Reid’s arms contentedly. “So, what was John talking about?”
Reid kisses Luke’s cheek. “Let’s finish the dishes, and then I’ll explain.”
Luke turns as fluttering returns to the pit of his stomach. “What is it? Is something wrong?”
“Let’s sit down and-”
“No. Tell me now. Are you sick? You said Damian got the records from Invicta and you know what they did to your brain, and that it’s okay. That you’re okay.” Luke’s heart thumps painfully as the words spill out.
“Yes. That’s true. But the fact remains that this heart is a prototype.”
“Mona said-”
“I know what she said. And John and I have discussed it. I’m going in for surgery and-”
“Surgery? Is something wrong? Does John think something’s wrong?” Oh, God. No, no, no.
Reid grasps Luke’s hands. “Luke, please. Listen to me. John’s just going to have a look. He’s going to use a small camera, which is far less invasive than open-heart surgery. He’ll make several incisions in my chest and inspect the heart.”
“And it’s not dangerous, right?”
“There’s always risk associated with any kind of surgery. Anytime a patient is-”
“Please stop with the doctor talk. Just tell me you’ll be okay.”
Reid smiles gently, squeezing Luke’s hands. “I’ll be okay. We’ve already done some heart function tests. Everything’s come back normal. Above average, even. This is the last step.”
“Why didn’t you tell me about any of this?”
“I didn’t want you to worry. I wanted you to focus on your own recovery.” He brushes back Luke’s hair. “You’re doing so well. I’m proud of you.”
Luke snorts. “I’ve been out of rehab for less than a day.”
Reid takes Luke’s face in his hands. “I’m proud of you.”
After a moment, Luke nods. “I’m proud of you too. So, no more ‘managing our expectations’?”
Reid shakes his head. “When you got sick, it made me so angry. I felt powerless again, like I was back in that basement. And I’m better than that. I’ll be damned if I let what happened make me doubt myself. I’m going to live, and I’m going to be the best neurosurgeon in the world. Again.”
“Damn right you are.”
Luke’s pulse races as adrenaline and excitement surge in his veins. Neither of them will be powerless again. He kisses Reid, and then they’re tearing at each other’s clothes as they stumble up the stairs.
The paper bag filled with lube still sits on the bedside table, and as Reid yanks out a tube and kicks off his jeans, Luke strips off the rest of his clothes. “In Dallas, after the bull, and after you kissed me - I dreamed about you that night.”
Reid kisses him. “Yeah? What did you dream?”
Luke strokes himself as he steps backward towards the bed. “That you were fucking me.” He climbs onto the bed and gets on his hands and knees. “Like this. Pounding me with your big cock, making me yours.”
Reid practically growls as he crawls behind Luke on the bed. His slick fingers push into Luke as he leans over and sucks hard on the side of Luke’s neck, nipping with his teeth. Reid’s cock soon replaces his fingers, and he thrusts into Luke.
Luke moans as Reid fills him. “Yes. Fuck me hard. Hard.”
Reid’s fingers dig into Luke’s hips as he slams into him. Luke’s stretched so wide, and he spreads his knees and pushes back, taking Reid as far as he can go. Reid’s hips snap as he drives into Luke, finding just the right spot. “God, I love you,” Reid mutters under his ragged breath.
Luke is panting, the pleasure radiating out, his cock leaking as Reid thrusts into him. Luke feels alive in every cell of his body, and he moans Reid’s name, squeezing his inner muscles and making Reid gasp. Reid reaches around to jerk Luke’s cock in time with the motion of his hips.
“Yes. Yes. Right there.” Luke cries out as Reid hits his prostate, and as he does it again, Luke’s cock spurts and he shudders with his release, the pleasure pure and all-encompassing. Reid grunts and slams in again, and then he’s coming, hot and wet, deep inside Luke.
They collapse to the bed, chests heaving. Luke can feel Reid’s heart pounding against his back, strong and powerful. Reid kisses the back of Luke’s neck, his fingers running through Luke’s hair. “For the record, I want to hear about every single dream or fantasy you’ve ever had about me. No detail too small.”
Luke laughs. “My therapist said I should get in touch with my feelings and desires and make sure they’re known. Not to keep them bottled up and tell people what I think they want to hear.”
“Well, I definitely want to hear more. You’re even hotter than usual when you talk like that.” He bites Luke’s earlobe playfully before pulling out gently and rolling over. He caresses Luke’s back. “You can always be honest. About anything. You know that, right?”
“I know. And you don’t have to worry about me being…fragile or something. You can tell me what’s going on. Deal?”
Reid kisses him tenderly. “Deal.”
The alarm on Luke’s cell phone beeps from the pocket of his discarded jeans, and he sighs. “Need to take my midday pills.” Although all he wants to do is fall into a nap, sated and heavy limbed, he forces himself to his feet. His suitcase is where he left it by the bedroom door, and he digs out his one-man pharmacy.
As he flicks on the bathroom light, he remembers with a pang the blue glass scattered all over the floor. Then he notices two new glasses on the counter, one on each side. They’re clear, with a pattern of frosted blue fish and underwater creatures around the middle.
“Mine’s on the left. Same with my toothbrush.” Reid stands in the bathroom doorway. “Is that okay? I like being on the left.”
A swell of love warms Luke’s chest as he nods. “Yeah. That’s okay.” He lines up the capsules on the counter and fills his new glass. He swallows the pills in turn, counting his blessings.
*
Reid stirs slightly, not quite awake yet, but getting there. Luke watches him carefully, eager for Reid to open his eyes again. The anesthetic is wearing off, and Luke taps his foot against the linoleum while he waits.
John assured him the surgery went well, although it seemed to Luke to take hours. After tiring himself out with pacing the length of the waiting room, he closed his eyes for his breathing exercises. The waft of his mother’s perfume preceded her soft hand covering his. Luke told her she didn’t have to wait with him, but she’d just handed him a coffee and settled down into the adjacent chair. Sometimes his mother gets it exactly right, and he’d leaned over and pressed a kiss to her cheek.
Moaning softly, Reid opens his eyes. For a moment, he seems to panic, and his eyes widen as he goes rigid. Luke quickly takes his hand. “Hey. I’m here. You’re okay. You’re at Memorial.” He caresses Reid’s face as he squeezes his fingers. “You’re safe.”
As Reid focuses on Luke, he visibly relaxes. He exhales and clears his throat. “Hey.”
“Hey.” Luke smiles, and lifts Reid’s hand to his lips, kissing it. “Should I get John?”
“Not yet.” Reid’s eyelids droop, and he zones in and out for a little while. By the time John does come, Reid is much more awake, and he asks Luke to raise the bed so he can sit up.
Luke’s foot taps rapidly once more, and he clasps his hands in his lap to stop himself from fidgeting as John closes the door behind him and flips open Reid’s chart. “Well, the good news is…there isn’t any bad news. I took a close look at the heart, and I have to tell you, it’s quite a marvel. I’ve never seen a transplanted organ grafted so completely onto a host body. It’s like it was the heart you were born with, Reid. It’s truly remarkable. And judging by what I’ve seen from the tests we’ve run, I see absolutely no reason this heart won’t last you the next fifty years.”
Breathing out slowly, Luke closes his eyes for a moment as the relief soars through him. When he opens his eyes, Reid is smiling - no, grinning - and Luke grins back. “Well, I guess we should start looking for a house closer to the hospital, Dr. Oliver.”
Reid nods, still smiling widely. “I guess so.” To John he asks, “When can I start?”
“How about you give yourself two weeks to fully recover from the procedure. In the meantime we’ll fill out the paperwork and I’ll fill you in on the changes I’ve made. The new wing will almost be ready to open, and I’d love to have you up to speed by then.” John extends his hand to Reid. “Welcome back to Oakdale Memorial, Dr. Oliver.”
*
More flakes drift down over the lake, and the snow-capped trees are almost bright in the moonlight. Luke stands by the window in the bedroom, watching the silent world. He can hear Reid in the closet, rooting around. “What are you looking for?”
Reid’s voice is muffled. “My stethoscope. Did you ever see it after the accident?”
“Oh! I completely forgot. It’s in the bedside table.”
Reid emerges from the closet. “Good. I’ve had that since med school and-” He stops, staring into the now-open drawer. Instead of the stethoscope, he removes the chess piece. Staring at it, he sits on the side of the bed. “Where did you get this?”
“Your uncle.” Luke comes to sit beside Reid.
“You met him?” Reid’s gaze is zeroed in on the knight, and he turns it over in his fingers, touching the grooves of the carved wood.
“No. My parents did. They got him to sign the release for…for you. Except it wasn’t you at all.”
“And he gave this to them?”
“Yeah. He carried it in his pocket.”
At this, Reid takes a sharp breath. “I haven’t seen him in years. I didn’t think…”
“Maybe we should go visit him. Give him a second chance.” Reid has never spoken of his relationship with his uncle, and Luke hasn’t wanted to push.
Reid closes his fist over the knight. “Maybe. Once I know…”
Luke rubs Reid’s back through his t-shirt. “What?”
“Once I know that I can really be a doctor again. That I can really be…me.”
“You can. You will. You said your memory’s gotten much better.”
“It has. I’m just…”
“Worried about tomorrow? It’s your first day. Of course you’re nervous. But you’re going to pick it back up in no time.”
Reid smiles, catching Luke’s eye. “Like riding a bike, huh?”
“Exactly.” He leans into Reid, nudging his shoulder. “Get your books and I’ll quiz you.”
Reid chuckles. “Okay.” He turns the chess piece over again in his fingers. After a moment, he places it carefully back inside the drawer and closes it.
*
Luke isn’t sure what time it is when he wakes in the night. As he rolls over to snuggle into Reid and go back to sleep, some instinct tells him Reid is awake and tense beside him. Blinking blearily, Luke caresses Reid’s chest. “Why aren’t you sleeping?”
Reid opens his eyes and stares at the ceiling. “Dunno.”
“Don’t be scared.”
“I’m not scared.” Reid’s response seems automatic, and he smiles softly. “Well, maybe a little.”
“It’s okay. I won’t tell anyone.” Luke kisses him lightly. “I’m scared sometimes, too,” he whispers.
Reid’s fingers tangle in Luke’s hair as he kisses him, his tongue sliding into Luke’s mouth as he turns to face him. Reid pulls back, taking a shuddering breath. “What if it’s not the same?”
“It’ll be better. You’ll be better.”
Their hands wander, touching and caressing under their pyjamas as they kiss again. “Need you,” Reid murmurs. “I want you in me.”
The building desire coursing through Luke’s body blazes, and he rolls onto Reid, pressing their bodies together from head to toe. “You sure? You want me to…?”
Reid nods, and Luke pushes aside the self-doubt as he reaches for the lube. Reid needs him.
They shimmy out of their pyjamas, kissing and touching with hands and mouths. Reid spreads his legs wide, opening himself up, and he’s so vulnerable and trusting. Kneeling, Luke works his fingers into Reid’s hole, stretching him gently, taking his time. Their gaze is locked together, and Luke smiles as he leans over Reid to kiss him. His lips trail down Reid’s body as his fingers open him.
When Reid is rolling his hips and making small, needy sounds in his throat, Luke lifts Reid’s legs. As he pushes his slicked cock inside, Reid moans and his fingers grab at Luke’s back. He’s so tight, and it’s an incredible sensation around Luke’s dick. Luke has to stop and breathe so he doesn’t come already. The thought alone of being inside Reid like this is heady, never mind the fiery heat of him.
Reid mutters Luke’s name as Luke thrusts all the way into him. He moves gently in and out with shallow movements, letting Reid adjust, remembering what it feels like when Reid is inside him, stretching him. Reid closes his eyes, his head falling back as they rock together. He pants quietly, lips parted. “You’re so beautiful,” Luke murmurs.
Squeezing one hand around Reid’s hard cock, Luke strokes it lightly, his fingertips reaching down to tease Reid’s balls. Reid tenses around him, moaning, and he bucks up, urging Luke deeper inside him. As Luke increases the tempo, driving in faster, his orgasm starts to build, the sweet pressure of Reid’s ass tight around him.
Sweat beads on their skin as they strive together, and it’s salty on Luke’s tongue as he licks Reid’s neck. He wants to make sure Reid gets off first, so he jerks Reid’s cock harder as he angles his hips and tries to find just the right spot inside him. When he does, Reid cries out, and Luke repeats the movement. “Look at me,” he commands.
Reid does, and Luke thrusts against his prostate again, his fist still tight around Reid’s cock. “You’re the best neurosurgeon in the world.”
The warmth of Reid’s semen flows over Luke’s hand and Reid shakes, his cries echoing in the rafters. Luke buries himself deeply and comes, his muscles shaking as he empties. Gasping for breath, he presses open-mouthed kisses to Reid’s shoulder and neck as the intense pleasure ebbs.
They kiss softly, rubbing their noses together as Luke eases out and they settle into each other’s arms. Luke’s fingers are sticky, and he sucks each one slowly in turn, savouring the taste of Reid. Reid kisses him when he’s finished, and they sigh sleepily.
Reid’s eyes drift shut, and soon he’s snoring lightly. Watching the moon through the window, Luke brushes his fingers up and down Reid’s spine. Before long, Reid is drooling against Luke’s neck, and one of Luke’s legs is slightly numb where Reid is draped over him. Utterly content, he holds Reid closer.
*
The hospital bustles with its usual activity and Luke smiles and nods at various people who rush by in the hallway. After a morning of telling himself repeatedly that Reid is fine, Luke finds himself near the nurses’ station on the surgical floor. He spots Reid by the lounge, and watches as he studies a chart. Reid’s wearing his favourite uniform of scrubs and long-sleeved shirt, his stethoscope slung around his neck. Luke can almost believe that it was all a bad dream, and that Reid’s been here the whole time.
Two nurses whisper and stare as they walk by Reid, and without looking at them, Reid says something that makes them scurry away at a near run. Luke turns when he hears a chuckle beside him. “Bob? What are you doing here?”
“Same thing as you, I imagine. It’s good to see you, Luke.” Bob squeezes Luke’s shoulder affectionately, and they share a smile. He glances over at Reid, watching him with a fatherly fondness. “He’s back.”
“Yeah. He is.” Luke grins, and waves as Reid spots them.
Reid strides over, an air of confidence and exhilaration about him. He presses a quick kiss to Luke’s lips. “You held out longer than I expected.” He turns to Bob and shakes his hand. “Good to see you, Bob. You know you need to do something about that sign on the new wing. Or I’ll take a crowbar to it myself and pry off the ‘memorial’ part.”
Bob laughs. “Don’t worry, they’re coming tomorrow to fix it before our grand opening on Thursday. I presume you’ll be the guest of honour.”
“Of course. Who else?” Reid glances over at a few of the hospital staff, who have stopped to whisper and stare. “Reports of my demise were greatly exaggerated. Now get back to work or I’ll have you fired.”
“And to think I feared this experience would soften you too much.” Bob laughs, shaking his head. “Good to have you back, Reid. Now you’ll have to excuse me, or I’ll be late for lunch with Kim, and heads will roll. See you both on Thursday.”
As Bob leaves, Gretchen approaches cautiously. “Dr. Oliver?”
“Yes. Do you see…” Reid seems to rethink the rest of his sentence. “What is it?”
“Uh, Dr. Rogers asked if you could give a quick consult. The room’s just around the corner.” She smiles shyly at Luke. “How are you feeling? You look very well.”
“I’m doing great. Thanks, Gretchen. It’s nice to see you. And I’m sure Reid will be happy to go lend his expertise. Why don’t you walk with him? I bet he’d like the company.”
Gretchen smiles nervously. “Of course.”
Reid rolls his eyes and heads down the hall, Gretchen trailing behind in his wake. He calls over his shoulder to Luke. “Stay here. I’ll be back in a minute.”
While he waits, Luke checks a new message on his cell from the realtor arranging the purchase of their new house near Old Town. It’s only minutes from the hospital, but is on a quiet, tree-lined cul-de-sac. Not quite as peaceful as the lake house, and Luke feels a pang at leaving it. But they’ll spend weekends and holidays there, and he looks forward to swimming in the lake when summer comes.
When the message ends, he erases it, and then the computerized voice speaks. “One saved message. Listen to message, press one. To erase, press seven. To save, press nine.”
Luke doesn’t need to listen to know which message it is, since he’s been saving it repeatedly for almost two months. He experiences a strange panic at the thought of erasing it, even though he has Reid, flesh and bone and warmth and strength, to hang onto now.
Find me.
“Luke?”
He looks up to find Reid watching him. “Hey.” Luke smiles and holds up the phone. “Realtor called. We can close tomorrow and sign the papers.”
“So you came down here to tell me that?” Reid teases.
“No. I came down here to check on you,” Luke laughs. “And to visit my new therapist. There’s an AA meeting next door in a couple hours, too. I’m going to check it out.”
“Sounds good. My shift’s short today. Meet me when it’s over? If you stick around, we can go for dinner before we drive home.”
“Are you asking me on a date, Dr. Oliver?”
Reid grins. “I am, Mr. Snyder. There’s a fancy French place over on Tremont. Candles and violin music and crème brûlée. How about it?”
Luke presses his lips to Reid’s and takes his hand, threading their fingers together. “I’ll be here.”
They kiss again, and Reid’s pager sounds. He glances at it, eyes bright. “Duty calls.”
Luke waves, and watches Reid practically run to the stairwell that leads down to the ER. Luke's phone is still in his hand, and he redials his voice mail, not needing to wait to hear the options again. With his thumb, he carefully presses the number seven.
Fin
Sequel: If the Fates Allow
I'm planning on writing a one-shot Christmas sequel, so this universe isn't quite over yet. :)
Part one
Part two
Part three
Part four
Part five
Part six
Part seven
Part eight
Part nine
One month later
“Damian and my grandma are seriously cooking together?” Luke laughs delightedly.
“Yep. I’m a little concerned that Damian will be sleeping with the fishes by the time we get back. Emma’s good with a kitchen knife.”
“I can’t believe they’re throwing me a surprise party. And I can’t believe you told me.”
Reid turns onto the highway. “Ugh, parties are torturous enough as it is, let alone when they’re sprung on you. It’s your first day out of rehab; you need time to readjust. But the Snyders are nothing if not persistent. Not to mention Ms. Walsh. I insisted on immediate family only, and I’m kicking them out as soon as lunch is done. You need to rest.”
Luke smiles. “I feel great.”
“You look great.”
“So do you. Even better than last week.” During their nightly ten-minute phone calls, Reid complained frequently about Tony’s physio schedule, while conceding that he was recovering rapidly. “It’s almost like…nothing ever happened.”
Reid smiles softly. “Almost.”
They’re quiet for a few minutes, watching the snow-patched landscape go by.
“Sure you’re feeling okay?” Reid asks.
“Yep. Side effects aren’t too bad. After the first week of constant nausea and shakes, it’s just been a little dry mouth, and I get tired. But I’ve been tired for a long time now. I feel better than I have since…” He trails off. “Anyway, this is only temporary while I’m on the drug protocol. Dr. Rhodes said I’ve made great progress, which you already know, since you’ve harassed her every second day.”
“Have to keep on top of things. Make sure nothing slips through the cracks. I’m a patient advocate, Luke.”
Luke chuckles. That wasn’t the name Dr. Rhodes used. “But as long as I don’t drink, I’ll be okay. And I won’t.”
“I know.”
At the thought of drinking, Luke closes his eyes and does his mental exercises, breathing deeply and overcoming the craving. He exhales and opens his eyes, feeling peaceful and strong. Reaching over, he runs his hand slowly through Reid’s growing curls. “You look like you did when we met.”
Leaning into his touch, Reid breathes deeply. “Keep that up and I’m going to have to pull over in one of these fields.”
They’d kissed briefly by the front door of the rehab centre, and Luke has been itching to touch Reid since they’ve been in the car. “And that would be bad because...?”
“We should go slowly. You’re still taking a lot of medication, and you shouldn’t exert yourself too much.”
“Right.”
“Right.”
Luke’s hand drops to Reid’s thigh, and he inches towards Reid’s cock. “Best to go slowly.”
With a glance over his shoulder, Reid changes lanes and slows as he pulls onto the shoulder and travels onto the grass, Luke’s car bumping over some dips on the rolling field. Most of the snow melted during a warm spell the week before, but the tires spin a bit in the wet mush.
Once they’ve clambered into the backseat, they kiss and rub against each other, breathing harshly. Luke presses Reid down against the leather, fumbling for the zippers on their jeans. Reid groans as Luke holds their cocks together in his hand, stroking roughly.
“Jesus, I missed you.” Reid pulls Luke’s head down for another kiss.
Luke thrusts his hips, rocking back and forth on Reid’s lap, squeezing their cocks together. “Me, too. I missed you so much.”
They’re both leaking already, cocks hard and hot in Luke’s hand. They rut together like they did the first night in front of the fireplace, and Luke kisses Reid roughly, gasping into his mouth as the pleasure spreads through his limbs.
Reid moans and slides his hand down the back of Luke’s jeans. He pushes the tip of his finger inside, and Luke comes with a cry. As Luke shudders, he continues stroking Reid, spreading his wet seed over Reid’s cock. Reid’s hips lift as he seeks his own release, and Luke wriggles back until he can lean down. He swallows Reid, tasting himself as he sucks on Reid’s dick.
He runs his tongue up and down the thick vein on the underside of Reid’s cock, and then Reid’s pulsing into Luke’s mouth, and Luke swallows as much as he can. He sucks gently on the tip, kissing it and pushing his tongue into the slit. Reid exhales slowly, hands gentle in Luke’s hair. “You’re so good, Luke.”
Luke kisses Reid, warm and pliant and real beneath him, and wishes they could go straight to bed.
*
“Just when you think it’s over.”
Luke turns from the window and the view of snow falling steadily, covering the trees and ice once more. He smiles at Reid standing in the doorway of the bedroom. “Yeah, welcome to winter in Illinois. Texas was probably a little warmer, huh?”
Reid holds up his fingers. “Just a tad.” He nods towards the stairs. “Everyone’s getting ready to go. Don’t want to get stuck in the snow. You okay?”
“Yeah. I just needed a minute. I’m good.” Luke hadn’t expected it at all, but seeing his family again has been a bit overwhelming. He missed them all terribly, but after the reflection and solitude of rehab, it’s a lot to take in. “So, the security guys are gone?”
“Yep. Damian assures me that Invicta will not come knocking. And he seems to have scared off the media, too. Told them my supposed death was all a misunderstanding, and that I would be doing interviews never. He’s very persuasive.”
“That he is,” Luke chuckles.
Reid holds out his hand. “Come on.”
Downstairs, Holden and Lily are corralling the kids by the door, zipping up coats and putting on boots. Ethan barrels over and hugs Luke’s legs. “Bye, Luke. I miss you.”
Luke bends over and hugs his brother tightly, swallowing the sudden lump in his throat. “I’ll see you soon, buddy.”
Ethan peers up at Reid for a long moment, the silence stretching out until Reid smiles and awkwardly pats Ethan’s head. “Bye. Buddy.”
Ethan speaks in a rush, still peering up at Reid. “CanIaskyousomething?”
“Sure.”
“Are you a zombie? My friend Tommy says you are.”
Lily gasps. “Ethan! That’s ridiculous. Apologize right now to Reid.”
“No, no. No need for apologies. Ethan, tell Tommy I’ll be over tonight to eat his brains.”
Faith and Natalie giggle as they hug Luke in turn. They wave to Reid and take Ethan outside. Lily and Holden say their goodbyes, hugging Luke tightly. Holden claps Reid on the shoulder and Lily kisses his cheek. Emma follows suit, and they bustle out to the car, waving and saying that they’ll see them soon as Lucinda and John finish buttoning their coats.
“Well, darling. It’s wonderful to have you home. And I expect to be seeing more of you in Oakdale. No hiding out here at your fortress of solitude, you hear me?”
“Yes, Grandmother. Bonus points for the Superman reference.”
“Well, you know me. I’m hip, sweetie! I’m hip.” She turns to Reid and kisses both his cheeks. “We’ll do lunch soon.” She kisses Luke. “Both of you.”
John nods to Reid. “I’ll see you tomorrow. Ten a.m.”
“I’ll be there.”
Luke squeezes Reid’s elbow. “Are you going back to work? Why didn’t you tell me?”
“We’ll talk about it this afternoon.”
“Okay.” Luke is puzzled by Reid’s muted reaction, and he tries to bat away the unease that returns so easily.
Damian appears from the kitchen as John and Lucinda leave. He smiles widely. “Well, we were all able to have lunch without one argument. This is a historic day, Luciano.”
Reid heads to the kitchen. “I’m going to start on the dishes.”
When they’re alone, Luke smiles at his father. “Thanks. For being on your best behaviour, even when Grandmother provoked you.”
“It was a challenge, but anything for you, Luciano.” He glances towards the window. “I should leave as well, before the roads are too bad.”
“You don’t have to go if you don’t want to.”
“I’m afraid I do. I’ve neglected the company for some time now. I need to make a trip to Malta to see that everything’s in order. And then, if it’s all right with you, I was planning on returning. I’ll need to travel to Europe fairly often, but I want to make my home in Oakdale.”
Tears prickle Luke's eyes. “I’d like that. Just promise me you won’t…mess it up.”
“I promise, Luciano.” Damian steps close and takes Luke’s face in his hands. “I promise.”
“Ti voglio bene, papà.”
Damian sucks in a breath as tears slip down his cheeks. He hugs Luke to him tightly. “I love you too, my son.” They hold each other for a long moment, and Damian presses a kiss to Luke’s head.
“Are you done with the big emotional goodbye?” Reid calls from the kitchen.
Luke and Damian step away from each other, laughing. “Yes. It’s safe now,” Luke calls back.
When Reid returns, Damian extends his hand to him. “It has been a pleasure getting to know you. I’ve enjoyed our conversations very much. I’m very happy my son has you in his life. Stammi bene.”
“Anche tu. A presto.” After a moment of hesitation, Reid pulls Damian into a quick hug. He pats Damian’s back clumsily and steps back. “And thank you. For everything you’ve done for me. And for Luke.”
Damian smiles. “That’s what family is for.”
As Luke stands by the door a few minutes later, listening to the engine of Damian’s car fade into the distance, he leans back in Reid’s arms contentedly. “So, what was John talking about?”
Reid kisses Luke’s cheek. “Let’s finish the dishes, and then I’ll explain.”
Luke turns as fluttering returns to the pit of his stomach. “What is it? Is something wrong?”
“Let’s sit down and-”
“No. Tell me now. Are you sick? You said Damian got the records from Invicta and you know what they did to your brain, and that it’s okay. That you’re okay.” Luke’s heart thumps painfully as the words spill out.
“Yes. That’s true. But the fact remains that this heart is a prototype.”
“Mona said-”
“I know what she said. And John and I have discussed it. I’m going in for surgery and-”
“Surgery? Is something wrong? Does John think something’s wrong?” Oh, God. No, no, no.
Reid grasps Luke’s hands. “Luke, please. Listen to me. John’s just going to have a look. He’s going to use a small camera, which is far less invasive than open-heart surgery. He’ll make several incisions in my chest and inspect the heart.”
“And it’s not dangerous, right?”
“There’s always risk associated with any kind of surgery. Anytime a patient is-”
“Please stop with the doctor talk. Just tell me you’ll be okay.”
Reid smiles gently, squeezing Luke’s hands. “I’ll be okay. We’ve already done some heart function tests. Everything’s come back normal. Above average, even. This is the last step.”
“Why didn’t you tell me about any of this?”
“I didn’t want you to worry. I wanted you to focus on your own recovery.” He brushes back Luke’s hair. “You’re doing so well. I’m proud of you.”
Luke snorts. “I’ve been out of rehab for less than a day.”
Reid takes Luke’s face in his hands. “I’m proud of you.”
After a moment, Luke nods. “I’m proud of you too. So, no more ‘managing our expectations’?”
Reid shakes his head. “When you got sick, it made me so angry. I felt powerless again, like I was back in that basement. And I’m better than that. I’ll be damned if I let what happened make me doubt myself. I’m going to live, and I’m going to be the best neurosurgeon in the world. Again.”
“Damn right you are.”
Luke’s pulse races as adrenaline and excitement surge in his veins. Neither of them will be powerless again. He kisses Reid, and then they’re tearing at each other’s clothes as they stumble up the stairs.
The paper bag filled with lube still sits on the bedside table, and as Reid yanks out a tube and kicks off his jeans, Luke strips off the rest of his clothes. “In Dallas, after the bull, and after you kissed me - I dreamed about you that night.”
Reid kisses him. “Yeah? What did you dream?”
Luke strokes himself as he steps backward towards the bed. “That you were fucking me.” He climbs onto the bed and gets on his hands and knees. “Like this. Pounding me with your big cock, making me yours.”
Reid practically growls as he crawls behind Luke on the bed. His slick fingers push into Luke as he leans over and sucks hard on the side of Luke’s neck, nipping with his teeth. Reid’s cock soon replaces his fingers, and he thrusts into Luke.
Luke moans as Reid fills him. “Yes. Fuck me hard. Hard.”
Reid’s fingers dig into Luke’s hips as he slams into him. Luke’s stretched so wide, and he spreads his knees and pushes back, taking Reid as far as he can go. Reid’s hips snap as he drives into Luke, finding just the right spot. “God, I love you,” Reid mutters under his ragged breath.
Luke is panting, the pleasure radiating out, his cock leaking as Reid thrusts into him. Luke feels alive in every cell of his body, and he moans Reid’s name, squeezing his inner muscles and making Reid gasp. Reid reaches around to jerk Luke’s cock in time with the motion of his hips.
“Yes. Yes. Right there.” Luke cries out as Reid hits his prostate, and as he does it again, Luke’s cock spurts and he shudders with his release, the pleasure pure and all-encompassing. Reid grunts and slams in again, and then he’s coming, hot and wet, deep inside Luke.
They collapse to the bed, chests heaving. Luke can feel Reid’s heart pounding against his back, strong and powerful. Reid kisses the back of Luke’s neck, his fingers running through Luke’s hair. “For the record, I want to hear about every single dream or fantasy you’ve ever had about me. No detail too small.”
Luke laughs. “My therapist said I should get in touch with my feelings and desires and make sure they’re known. Not to keep them bottled up and tell people what I think they want to hear.”
“Well, I definitely want to hear more. You’re even hotter than usual when you talk like that.” He bites Luke’s earlobe playfully before pulling out gently and rolling over. He caresses Luke’s back. “You can always be honest. About anything. You know that, right?”
“I know. And you don’t have to worry about me being…fragile or something. You can tell me what’s going on. Deal?”
Reid kisses him tenderly. “Deal.”
The alarm on Luke’s cell phone beeps from the pocket of his discarded jeans, and he sighs. “Need to take my midday pills.” Although all he wants to do is fall into a nap, sated and heavy limbed, he forces himself to his feet. His suitcase is where he left it by the bedroom door, and he digs out his one-man pharmacy.
As he flicks on the bathroom light, he remembers with a pang the blue glass scattered all over the floor. Then he notices two new glasses on the counter, one on each side. They’re clear, with a pattern of frosted blue fish and underwater creatures around the middle.
“Mine’s on the left. Same with my toothbrush.” Reid stands in the bathroom doorway. “Is that okay? I like being on the left.”
A swell of love warms Luke’s chest as he nods. “Yeah. That’s okay.” He lines up the capsules on the counter and fills his new glass. He swallows the pills in turn, counting his blessings.
*
Reid stirs slightly, not quite awake yet, but getting there. Luke watches him carefully, eager for Reid to open his eyes again. The anesthetic is wearing off, and Luke taps his foot against the linoleum while he waits.
John assured him the surgery went well, although it seemed to Luke to take hours. After tiring himself out with pacing the length of the waiting room, he closed his eyes for his breathing exercises. The waft of his mother’s perfume preceded her soft hand covering his. Luke told her she didn’t have to wait with him, but she’d just handed him a coffee and settled down into the adjacent chair. Sometimes his mother gets it exactly right, and he’d leaned over and pressed a kiss to her cheek.
Moaning softly, Reid opens his eyes. For a moment, he seems to panic, and his eyes widen as he goes rigid. Luke quickly takes his hand. “Hey. I’m here. You’re okay. You’re at Memorial.” He caresses Reid’s face as he squeezes his fingers. “You’re safe.”
As Reid focuses on Luke, he visibly relaxes. He exhales and clears his throat. “Hey.”
“Hey.” Luke smiles, and lifts Reid’s hand to his lips, kissing it. “Should I get John?”
“Not yet.” Reid’s eyelids droop, and he zones in and out for a little while. By the time John does come, Reid is much more awake, and he asks Luke to raise the bed so he can sit up.
Luke’s foot taps rapidly once more, and he clasps his hands in his lap to stop himself from fidgeting as John closes the door behind him and flips open Reid’s chart. “Well, the good news is…there isn’t any bad news. I took a close look at the heart, and I have to tell you, it’s quite a marvel. I’ve never seen a transplanted organ grafted so completely onto a host body. It’s like it was the heart you were born with, Reid. It’s truly remarkable. And judging by what I’ve seen from the tests we’ve run, I see absolutely no reason this heart won’t last you the next fifty years.”
Breathing out slowly, Luke closes his eyes for a moment as the relief soars through him. When he opens his eyes, Reid is smiling - no, grinning - and Luke grins back. “Well, I guess we should start looking for a house closer to the hospital, Dr. Oliver.”
Reid nods, still smiling widely. “I guess so.” To John he asks, “When can I start?”
“How about you give yourself two weeks to fully recover from the procedure. In the meantime we’ll fill out the paperwork and I’ll fill you in on the changes I’ve made. The new wing will almost be ready to open, and I’d love to have you up to speed by then.” John extends his hand to Reid. “Welcome back to Oakdale Memorial, Dr. Oliver.”
*
More flakes drift down over the lake, and the snow-capped trees are almost bright in the moonlight. Luke stands by the window in the bedroom, watching the silent world. He can hear Reid in the closet, rooting around. “What are you looking for?”
Reid’s voice is muffled. “My stethoscope. Did you ever see it after the accident?”
“Oh! I completely forgot. It’s in the bedside table.”
Reid emerges from the closet. “Good. I’ve had that since med school and-” He stops, staring into the now-open drawer. Instead of the stethoscope, he removes the chess piece. Staring at it, he sits on the side of the bed. “Where did you get this?”
“Your uncle.” Luke comes to sit beside Reid.
“You met him?” Reid’s gaze is zeroed in on the knight, and he turns it over in his fingers, touching the grooves of the carved wood.
“No. My parents did. They got him to sign the release for…for you. Except it wasn’t you at all.”
“And he gave this to them?”
“Yeah. He carried it in his pocket.”
At this, Reid takes a sharp breath. “I haven’t seen him in years. I didn’t think…”
“Maybe we should go visit him. Give him a second chance.” Reid has never spoken of his relationship with his uncle, and Luke hasn’t wanted to push.
Reid closes his fist over the knight. “Maybe. Once I know…”
Luke rubs Reid’s back through his t-shirt. “What?”
“Once I know that I can really be a doctor again. That I can really be…me.”
“You can. You will. You said your memory’s gotten much better.”
“It has. I’m just…”
“Worried about tomorrow? It’s your first day. Of course you’re nervous. But you’re going to pick it back up in no time.”
Reid smiles, catching Luke’s eye. “Like riding a bike, huh?”
“Exactly.” He leans into Reid, nudging his shoulder. “Get your books and I’ll quiz you.”
Reid chuckles. “Okay.” He turns the chess piece over again in his fingers. After a moment, he places it carefully back inside the drawer and closes it.
*
Luke isn’t sure what time it is when he wakes in the night. As he rolls over to snuggle into Reid and go back to sleep, some instinct tells him Reid is awake and tense beside him. Blinking blearily, Luke caresses Reid’s chest. “Why aren’t you sleeping?”
Reid opens his eyes and stares at the ceiling. “Dunno.”
“Don’t be scared.”
“I’m not scared.” Reid’s response seems automatic, and he smiles softly. “Well, maybe a little.”
“It’s okay. I won’t tell anyone.” Luke kisses him lightly. “I’m scared sometimes, too,” he whispers.
Reid’s fingers tangle in Luke’s hair as he kisses him, his tongue sliding into Luke’s mouth as he turns to face him. Reid pulls back, taking a shuddering breath. “What if it’s not the same?”
“It’ll be better. You’ll be better.”
Their hands wander, touching and caressing under their pyjamas as they kiss again. “Need you,” Reid murmurs. “I want you in me.”
The building desire coursing through Luke’s body blazes, and he rolls onto Reid, pressing their bodies together from head to toe. “You sure? You want me to…?”
Reid nods, and Luke pushes aside the self-doubt as he reaches for the lube. Reid needs him.
They shimmy out of their pyjamas, kissing and touching with hands and mouths. Reid spreads his legs wide, opening himself up, and he’s so vulnerable and trusting. Kneeling, Luke works his fingers into Reid’s hole, stretching him gently, taking his time. Their gaze is locked together, and Luke smiles as he leans over Reid to kiss him. His lips trail down Reid’s body as his fingers open him.
When Reid is rolling his hips and making small, needy sounds in his throat, Luke lifts Reid’s legs. As he pushes his slicked cock inside, Reid moans and his fingers grab at Luke’s back. He’s so tight, and it’s an incredible sensation around Luke’s dick. Luke has to stop and breathe so he doesn’t come already. The thought alone of being inside Reid like this is heady, never mind the fiery heat of him.
Reid mutters Luke’s name as Luke thrusts all the way into him. He moves gently in and out with shallow movements, letting Reid adjust, remembering what it feels like when Reid is inside him, stretching him. Reid closes his eyes, his head falling back as they rock together. He pants quietly, lips parted. “You’re so beautiful,” Luke murmurs.
Squeezing one hand around Reid’s hard cock, Luke strokes it lightly, his fingertips reaching down to tease Reid’s balls. Reid tenses around him, moaning, and he bucks up, urging Luke deeper inside him. As Luke increases the tempo, driving in faster, his orgasm starts to build, the sweet pressure of Reid’s ass tight around him.
Sweat beads on their skin as they strive together, and it’s salty on Luke’s tongue as he licks Reid’s neck. He wants to make sure Reid gets off first, so he jerks Reid’s cock harder as he angles his hips and tries to find just the right spot inside him. When he does, Reid cries out, and Luke repeats the movement. “Look at me,” he commands.
Reid does, and Luke thrusts against his prostate again, his fist still tight around Reid’s cock. “You’re the best neurosurgeon in the world.”
The warmth of Reid’s semen flows over Luke’s hand and Reid shakes, his cries echoing in the rafters. Luke buries himself deeply and comes, his muscles shaking as he empties. Gasping for breath, he presses open-mouthed kisses to Reid’s shoulder and neck as the intense pleasure ebbs.
They kiss softly, rubbing their noses together as Luke eases out and they settle into each other’s arms. Luke’s fingers are sticky, and he sucks each one slowly in turn, savouring the taste of Reid. Reid kisses him when he’s finished, and they sigh sleepily.
Reid’s eyes drift shut, and soon he’s snoring lightly. Watching the moon through the window, Luke brushes his fingers up and down Reid’s spine. Before long, Reid is drooling against Luke’s neck, and one of Luke’s legs is slightly numb where Reid is draped over him. Utterly content, he holds Reid closer.
*
The hospital bustles with its usual activity and Luke smiles and nods at various people who rush by in the hallway. After a morning of telling himself repeatedly that Reid is fine, Luke finds himself near the nurses’ station on the surgical floor. He spots Reid by the lounge, and watches as he studies a chart. Reid’s wearing his favourite uniform of scrubs and long-sleeved shirt, his stethoscope slung around his neck. Luke can almost believe that it was all a bad dream, and that Reid’s been here the whole time.
Two nurses whisper and stare as they walk by Reid, and without looking at them, Reid says something that makes them scurry away at a near run. Luke turns when he hears a chuckle beside him. “Bob? What are you doing here?”
“Same thing as you, I imagine. It’s good to see you, Luke.” Bob squeezes Luke’s shoulder affectionately, and they share a smile. He glances over at Reid, watching him with a fatherly fondness. “He’s back.”
“Yeah. He is.” Luke grins, and waves as Reid spots them.
Reid strides over, an air of confidence and exhilaration about him. He presses a quick kiss to Luke’s lips. “You held out longer than I expected.” He turns to Bob and shakes his hand. “Good to see you, Bob. You know you need to do something about that sign on the new wing. Or I’ll take a crowbar to it myself and pry off the ‘memorial’ part.”
Bob laughs. “Don’t worry, they’re coming tomorrow to fix it before our grand opening on Thursday. I presume you’ll be the guest of honour.”
“Of course. Who else?” Reid glances over at a few of the hospital staff, who have stopped to whisper and stare. “Reports of my demise were greatly exaggerated. Now get back to work or I’ll have you fired.”
“And to think I feared this experience would soften you too much.” Bob laughs, shaking his head. “Good to have you back, Reid. Now you’ll have to excuse me, or I’ll be late for lunch with Kim, and heads will roll. See you both on Thursday.”
As Bob leaves, Gretchen approaches cautiously. “Dr. Oliver?”
“Yes. Do you see…” Reid seems to rethink the rest of his sentence. “What is it?”
“Uh, Dr. Rogers asked if you could give a quick consult. The room’s just around the corner.” She smiles shyly at Luke. “How are you feeling? You look very well.”
“I’m doing great. Thanks, Gretchen. It’s nice to see you. And I’m sure Reid will be happy to go lend his expertise. Why don’t you walk with him? I bet he’d like the company.”
Gretchen smiles nervously. “Of course.”
Reid rolls his eyes and heads down the hall, Gretchen trailing behind in his wake. He calls over his shoulder to Luke. “Stay here. I’ll be back in a minute.”
While he waits, Luke checks a new message on his cell from the realtor arranging the purchase of their new house near Old Town. It’s only minutes from the hospital, but is on a quiet, tree-lined cul-de-sac. Not quite as peaceful as the lake house, and Luke feels a pang at leaving it. But they’ll spend weekends and holidays there, and he looks forward to swimming in the lake when summer comes.
When the message ends, he erases it, and then the computerized voice speaks. “One saved message. Listen to message, press one. To erase, press seven. To save, press nine.”
Luke doesn’t need to listen to know which message it is, since he’s been saving it repeatedly for almost two months. He experiences a strange panic at the thought of erasing it, even though he has Reid, flesh and bone and warmth and strength, to hang onto now.
Find me.
“Luke?”
He looks up to find Reid watching him. “Hey.” Luke smiles and holds up the phone. “Realtor called. We can close tomorrow and sign the papers.”
“So you came down here to tell me that?” Reid teases.
“No. I came down here to check on you,” Luke laughs. “And to visit my new therapist. There’s an AA meeting next door in a couple hours, too. I’m going to check it out.”
“Sounds good. My shift’s short today. Meet me when it’s over? If you stick around, we can go for dinner before we drive home.”
“Are you asking me on a date, Dr. Oliver?”
Reid grins. “I am, Mr. Snyder. There’s a fancy French place over on Tremont. Candles and violin music and crème brûlée. How about it?”
Luke presses his lips to Reid’s and takes his hand, threading their fingers together. “I’ll be here.”
They kiss again, and Reid’s pager sounds. He glances at it, eyes bright. “Duty calls.”
Luke waves, and watches Reid practically run to the stairwell that leads down to the ER. Luke's phone is still in his hand, and he redials his voice mail, not needing to wait to hear the options again. With his thumb, he carefully presses the number seven.
Fin
Sequel: If the Fates Allow