Affirmation Part 9
Just a word of warning, I will be out of town from the 14th to the 17th on vacation with my parents, so (unless I finish posting Affirmation by Sunday) no updates will occur during that time, depending on when I get home.
So, anyways, here is the start of Part 9: In which the gang play the waiting game, Melissa gets a bitching out for her flirting, Paul talks with Julie and then Tony, and Greg gets glomped.
Title: Affirmation
Author: Shinigami518
Rating: PG-13, but with some bits of R in it.
Main Character(s) and/or pairings: Ryan/Colin (which'll happen near the end), Ryan/Pat, Colin/Deb, Tony/Paul, Jeff/Greg (one-sided)
Summary: A crazy woman abducts Ryan, Colin, their wives, Greg, Drew, Wayne, Brad, and Chip. Pat and Deb are released with only minor injuries, but the guys are still missing. Three college students end up stumbling into this crazed plan by accident and have to help the guys find a way to escape, but there are several big problems they have to overcome.
View the last parts here on my journal (and don't forget to comment on them if you haven't):
Prologue
Part 1a
Part 1b
Part 2a
Part 2b
Part 2c
Part 2d
Part 2e
Part 2f
Part 3a
Part 3b
Part 4a
Part 4b
Part 5a
Part 5b
Part 6a
Part 6b
Part 7
Part 8a
Part 8b
Part 8c
Part 9 - I believe you can’t appreciate true love until you’ve been burned
1:21PM
Albany Medical Centre: waiting room…
“This is the part I really hate: the waiting.” Jeff sighed, plopping down in a chair in the waiting room.
“Tell me about it.” Mike groaned in agreement.
Once at the hospital, Ryan, Colin, Drew, Greg, Wayne, Brad, Chip, Tony, and Julie were immediately ushered in for two main reasons: surgery and to be checked out for any permanent damage. That was over three hours ago.
Josie, Mike, Sandi, Jeff, Paul, Robert, Janet, Will, Alicia, Sam, and Melissa were stuck in the waiting room, waiting for the results of their friends’ health. The small family was huddled together, waiting for news on their daughter. Josie, Sandi, Melissa, and Sam stood around the room, looking troubled. Alicia sat with Mike and Jeff, swinging her legs every now and then, waiting with frustration. Paul sat away from the other, hands clasped in silent prayer, the blood cleaned off his face, but not his shirt.
“They should’ve told us something by now!” Melissa moaned, taping her foot and nervously picking at her shirt sleeve. “I mean, how long does it takes to do a check up on these guys?!” she asked out loud to no one in particular.
“Maybe it’s because it takes a while for a scan to come back.” Julie remarked, walking through the emergency room doors. Janet and Robert immediately got up and ran to their daughter.
“Are you ok?” Janet asked.
“Just a bump on the head, but it was close to being a concussion, though.” Julie answered, rubbing the back of her head in emphasis.
“What about the others?” Josie asked next. At that instant, the door behind Julie slammed open, revealing Wayne, Drew, Chip, and Brad, minus the metal collars and visor. But there was one change in the four: Drew was wearing sunglasses.
“Drew?” Jeff asked, a bit worried.
“Have to wear these things until my eyesight fully recovers in a few days.” Drew stated, pointing to his shades.
“And you three?” Sandi asked Brad, Chip and Wayne.
“Our vocal chords are still sore from the collar.” Wayne replied, sounding a bit hoarse.
“They’ll be back to normal in a few days.” Chip added.
“That’s a relief.” Will smiled.
“And Greg’ll be joining us in a bit. He’s just being checked out of surgery. They got that damn chip out of his neck. The doc said there wasn’t any permanent damage, thank God.” Drew put in. Jeff gave a sigh of relief.
“And Ryan, Colin, and Tony? What about them?” Alicia asked, standing up in concern.
“Ryan and Colin are in surgery right now, but according to the docs, this is a delicate and… very weird ordeal for them. It isn’t everyday these guys deal with pregnant guys, if you get my drift. We… we still haven’t heard anything yet about Tony.” Julie explained with a frown on her face.
“Damn…” Sandi whispered, looking over at Paul, who remained sitting in silent prayer.
“I was worried about you, you know?” Melissa smiled softly, walking up to Brad slowly.
“Really?” Brad smiled back. Melissa wrapped her arms around Brad’s neck.
“I’m so happy you’re gonna be ok and able to speak normally in no time.” Melissa continued, leaning forward to kiss Brad on the lips.
“OH GET A FUCKING LIFE, WILL YOU?!”
Brad broke Melissa’s hold on him and spun around to see Greg, looking like he was back to his normal smartass self.
“GREG!” Jeff smiled, running over and giving his friend a giant hug, nearly knocking him over.
“Whoa! Easy there, tiger! I maybe standing but I’m not tackle-ready, yet.” Greg exclaimed, surprised by Jeff’s actions. Jeff pulled away, blushing slightly.
“Sorry. Just- I’m just so happy you’re ok.” Jeff replied, shyly. Sam raised an eyebrow in interest as Melissa broke away from Brad and walked over to Greg, looking annoyed.
“Glad to see you’re back to normal, but that doesn’t give you the right to ruin my moment with Brad!” Melissa seethed, hands on her hips. Greg frowned, turning to face the young blonde.
“Well, little missy, I’ll have you know that Brad is already taken! He’s got a girlfriend back home who loves him very much from what I’ve heard.” Greg retorted crossly.
“Well excuse me, Greg, if I want to show a little affection towards one of my favorite guys!” Melissa shot back, hand on her chest.
“A little? Melissa, you were almost ready to french him!” Sam exclaimed. Melissa froze like a Popsicle in a freezer, a “busted” look on her face, before spinning around to face her friend.
“No I wasn’t!” Melissa protested, blushing slightly.
“Come on, Lissy, you’ve been flirting and planting little kisses on him during this whole ordeal! Hell, you were also flirting with Jeff LAST night!” Julie snapped, hands on her hips.
“It’s called ‘being available!’” Melissa stated irritably.
“It’s called ‘being a whore’, Melissa.” Will muttered loudly, leaning back in his chair. Melissa glared at the tall young man.
“Oh fuck off, Will! I’m just seeing if I have a chance with these guys!” Melissa protested.
“A chance?! Lissy, you’ve as much luck in hooking up with them as Will has in hooking up with Hannah Montana!” Julie spat, pointing at her brother.
“Who the fuck is Hannah Montana?” Will whispered to Mike, who just shrugged in response.
“Oh, come on, Julie! I’m just lightening up the mood a bit around here!” Melissa stated angrily.
“By hitting on a guy who could be old enough to be your dad?! As Greg said, get a fucking life, will ya?” Julie snapped incredulously. Brad pouted slightly after hearing Julie’s remark about his age. Melissa stomped over and stood face-to-face with Julie, only a few inches away from her face.
“Don’t get pissy with me, Julie; you’ve no idea what I’ve been through. You don’t know what it’s like not knowing what’s going on! Not knowing if several of your friends are alive or not because of a psychopath!” Melissa hissed angrily. Julie looked down, her bangs shadowing her eyes.
“You’re right… but you’ve never seen what Jeff, Alicia, Paul and I saw: a crazed woman - that same psychopath you mentioned - getting shot, killed… and a man I idolize… a man I loved- love… nearly get killed saving the one he loves.” Julie replied coldly, stepping away from a now stunned Melissa, running past her and the others and through the hospital doors, back down the halls she previously came down.
“Julie!” Will exclaimed, running over to the doors in time to see his sister run past several orderlies, doctors and nurses.
Melissa stood in place, letting Julie’s words sink in. “She right… she’s been right all this time… I’ve been such a fool… I- I really thought nothing bad was going to happen to us…” Melissa said softly, tears in her eyes.
“That’s the problem with life, kid,” Sandi explained, walking up to Melissa, “There’s no reset button here. You gotta live your life the way you see fit. That means learning from your mistakes.”
“Thank God we’re all ok.” Jeff sighed, leaning slightly against Greg.
“Not all of us are in the clear, Jeff.” Greg reminded him. Paul finally got up and walked over to the large hospital doors.
“Paul?” Josie asked, walking up to her longtime friend.
“I’ll keep an eye on the kid. If there’s any news about Tony, Ryan or Colin, gimme a call on my mobile.” Paul told Josie, stopping to look at her. He then went back after the young woman, vanishing through the doors, leaving Josie alone, staring at the doors in silence.
“Oh Paul…” Josie whispered, watching the doors close before her.
A minute later, further down the halls…
“Kid!”
Julie spun around to see Paul approaching her in a quick pace. Julie sighed, running a hand through her drooping bangs.
“Did mom send you?” Julie asked. Paul stopped in front of her, catching his breath.
“No, I came on my own.” Paul answered. Julie nodded.
“Right. Why are you here?” Julie asked, a bit skeptical.
“Considering you ran off like that and why you did, I figured I was the best one for you to talk with.” Paul replied.
“Look, I’m sorry about snapping at Melissa, but I’m just tired with her constant flirting and naivety…” Julie began, venting slightly.
“She knows.” Paul cut her off. Julie blinked in surprise.
“Wh-what do you mean?” Julie asked.
“She knows she was wrong. She just didn’t want to admit it upfront.” Paul explained, placing a hand on the young woman’s shoulder. Julie glanced away from Paul.
“It took several people she cares about to nearly die for her to realize it, stubborn bitch.” Julie muttered softly. Paul nodded in agreement.
“You ok now?” Paul asked, still staring down at the young woman.
“I’m fine.” Julie stated firmly, still not meeting Paul’s gaze. Paul gave her a disbelieving look. Julie sighed, finally turning her head to look up at him.
“A man I idolize… a man you and I love nearly died. And the woman who did that was shot to death in front of my eyes. If I wasn’t already feeling numb over my grandmother’s death last month and already aware of the previous troubles during these past several days, I’d probably be even more freaked out than I am right now.” Julie took a deep breath before wiping the tears from her eyes with her hands. “Why do people do this? Why do they do this to others because they think it’s the right thing?” she asked, hugging herself. Paul said nothing, but pulled the young woman closer into an awkward hug. Julie looked up at him surprise, her hands on his chest.
“Some people are just really messed up, I guess. They might be so traumatized by something that their whole line of thinking gets screwed up.” Paul tried to answer, but it was hard to come up with an answer to such a question when there are so many to give.
“I guess it’s true when they say ‘Life’s a bitch…’” Julie sighed, her arms snaking around Paul’s waste. They stayed that way for at least a minute, Paul rocking her slightly in his embrace. They finally broke apart, Julie furiously wiping her eyes with her shirt sleeves.
“Sorry, sorry about that. God I’ve been crying all day, I’m surprised I haven’t dried out.” Julie muttered. Paul just shrugged.
“It’s been a really fucked up day; for all of us.” Paul stated, hand on her shoulder.
“Right,” Julie agreed, “What I wouldn’t give for a having a normal life again.” Julie sighed, walking over to the leftmost wall, leaned against it back first and sliding down until she sat with her back against the wall. Paul walked up to her.
“Yeah, nothing to worry about except boys and passing your classes, right?” Paul smirked. Julie let out a soft laugh.
“Mostly the latter than the former, actually. I’m not really interested in hooking up until I graduate.” Julie corrected. Paul sat down on her left, leaning against the wall. “I guess that’s one of the big differences between me and Lissy. She loves dating guys more than I do and she parties a bit more.” She went on.
“Almost like what Lolita was like according to those guards: A party girl who loves boys more than studying.” Paul remarked. Julie nodded slowly and sadly.
“Maybe that’s why I feel a bit sorry for her.” Julie sighed, resting her arms on her bent knees and leaning forward a bit.
“Who?” Paul raised an eyebrow.
“Lolita. She just wanted to go out and have fun, not to get raped. It messed her up and she wanted help, but no one would listen to her,” Julie looked down at her boots, “But that’s the only reason why I feel sorry for her. I don’t feel sorry for her killing her rapist. I don’t feel sorry for her kidnapping Ryan, Colin, Greg, and the guys,” her voice was rising as she went on as was her anger, “I don’t feel sorry for her killing Pat and Deb! I don’t feel sorry for her knocking up Ryan and Colin, nearly blinding Drew, hurting Greg with that V-chip, and making Wayne, Brad, and Chip wear those fucking collars! I don’t feel sorry for her attacking us! And- and most of all, I don’t feel sorry for her shooting Tony when she was trying to kill us!” Julie took a deep breath to calm down. “I-I mean, Tony never did anything to her, he just wanted to stop her from shooting us…” Julie sighed, resting her head on her knees.
“You love him? Tony, you love him, don’t you?” Paul question took Julie by surprise, making her stare at him in shock. She blushed softly and looked back at her feet.
“A little. I mean, it just started off as a small crush, but for the past year… Yes. I love him. But- but not as much as you probably do.” Julie stated honestly, blushing and then smiling mischievously at Paul. Paul blushed a bit and looked away.
“Y-yeah, right.” Paul stuttered, looking up at the ceiling.
“You love him? Tony, you love him, don’t you?” Julie repeated Paul’s question, this time directing it at the one who asked it. Paul gave a wistful smile, still staring at the ceiling.
“Yeah… yes, I guess I do,” he gave a small laugh, “I’ve been denying it for so long, I guess there are something’s you can’t put off forever.” He was still smiling to himself, looking back down at the floor.
“Right…” Julie nodded.
“Excuse me?”
Both Paul and Julie looked up to see a female doctor with short strawberry blonde hair and hazel eyes, looking down at them.
“Is one of you a…,” the doctor glanced down at her clipboard, “Paul Merton?” Paul immediately shot to his feet, nearly knocking Julie over by his quickness.
“Yes, yes, I’m Paul Merton, what is it?” Paul exclaimed, smoothing out his hair and then straightening his shirt and glasses.
“Oh, thank God. You see, I’m Doctor West and one of our patient’s been asking for you and a young woman he keeps referring to as “the kid”. He also said that if we can’t find you two, he’d hijack a wheelchair and go out to find you and the young lady himself.” Doctor West sighed in relief. Julie shot to her feet in surprise.
“Tony?” Julie gasped.
“He- He’s ok?” Paul asked, hoping he heard right.
“He has several bruised ribs, two that are broken, plus a tender back from hitting the wall, a scar from where the bullet grazed him, and a concussion, but none of his injuries are life-threatening. I want to keep him here for two to three days to make sure he’s healing correctly and not having any reactions to the medication and painkillers we’re giving him.” Doctor West explained, placing a hand on Paul’s arm.
“Well, can we see him now? Do our friends know?” Julie asked swiftly.
“Yes, you can see him. Dr. Brennan is already meeting up with your friends to let them know.” Doctor West answered.
“What about Ryan and Colin? Are they ok yet?” Julie asked again. Doctor West frowned.
“They’re still in surgery. This is a really complicated matter, Miss. Sanders; our doctors have never dealt with anything like this before.” Doctor West explained.
Julie looked away, “I know… I just hope they make it.” She sighed softly. Doctor West nodded, and then looked at Paul nervously.
“I do hop you don’t mind me asking, Mr. Merton, but Mr. Slattery has been adamant on seeing you, may I ask how are you and he related?” Doctor West asked inquisitively and uncertainly. Julie gulped loudly and Paul took an audibly deep breath before responding.
“I...,” Paul felt his cheeks burn as he tried to figure out how to word his response properly. He finally relaxed and stated his response without hesitation or fear. “I’m his boyfriend.”
Julie stared at the man with wide eyed surprise, biting her lips to stop herself from laughing at the seriousness on Paul’s face and the look of total surprise on Doctor West’s face.
“I… see,” Doctor West said softly. “This way, please.” She gestured the two to follow her lead. Both Paul and Julie overheard her mutter loudly to herself, “It’s always the good looking ones and the British ones…” causing both to stifle a laugh.
Doctor West led Julie and Paul down the hall and they soon found themselves in front of room 452: Tony’s room.
“You may see him.” Doctor West stated.
“Thank you Doctor…” Paul thanked her.
“It’s the least I can do. Maybe seeing you two will calm him down.” Doctor West smiled. “Now if you excuse me, I need to check on one of my other patients.” She then turned and left down the hall. Julie looked up at Paul and placed a gentle hand on his arm.
“You go in first. He probably wants to see you more than me.” Julie suggested. Paul nodded, not going to argue with her. He turned and opened the door to the room, entering it.
Tony was lying on the hospital bed, staring up at the ceiling. He was awake, sporting a bandage over the wound the bullet left on his forehead. He was connected to an I.V. drip and was in a hospital gown, partially covered by the blankets over his lower torso. He also was talking softly to himself as he stared up at the ceiling.
“25 - 26 - 27 - 28 - 29...” Tony was counting to himself. Paul closed the door not all the way, leaving enough space for Julie to peer through, and stood with his hands on his hips.
“What are you doing?” Paul asked, laughing slightly. Tony looked down at Paul and smiled broadly over seeing Paul.
“Counting ceiling tiles until you arrive,” Tony replied, matter-of-factually. He then went back to counting the tiles, “33 - 34 - 35 - 36 - 37…”
Paul shook his head, walking up to his dear friend, “Are you really bored or are you just high on the painkillers the doc gave you?” Paul asked. Tony just shrugged.
“A little from column A, a little from column B.” Tony smiled dopily. Paul found a spot on the bed and sat himself down, still looking at Tony.
“You ok, though, huh?” Paul asked, gently placing a hand on top of Tony’s left hand. Tony nodded.
“Just hurts a bit when I laugh, plus a small headache, but the painkillers are working great. The docs say I’ll be fine in a couple of weeks.” Tony smiled, wincing slightly. His expression dampened as he eyed Paul’s shirt, still stained with blood, Tony’s blood. The memory of awakening in Paul’s arms lingered in his mind. The image of his dearest friend’s face stained with blood and tears, because of him, because of his heroic almost sacrifice. His fingers instinctively wrapped around Paul’s, gripping them tightly. They almost lost each other today, and even though he was feeling a bit better, he couldn’t help but wonder about Paul.
“Tony is everything ok?” Paul asked worriedly. Tony blinked in surprise and shook his head.
“No, no, I’m fine, but… are you alright, though?” Tony asked, seriously. Paul looked away, his smile fading into a frown.
“I thought I was going to lose you today,” Paul began, “When I saw you getting hit… It was like that bullet had struck me and not you. And seeing you lie there, not moving, I… I really thought I lost you forever. Your face was so pale... and the blood from that damn wound made it look worse than it was…,” Paul looked up at the ceiling, taking a deep breath before going on, tears rimming his blue eyes, “Damn it, I already lost Sarah, I… I can’t- I couldn’t bear the thought that I might’ve…,” he lowered his head, tears finally rolling down his face, “lost you as well.” He sniffed loudly, closing his eyes as more tears fell. He removed his glasses and ran a hand over his face to wipe away the tears.
“I can’t lose you again, Tony… after all the shit we’ve been through. Not before I get the chance to tell you that…,” Paul finally turned to face Tony, the tears he shed leaving small trails down his face, “That I’ve been such a fool… I should’ve told you much sooner how I felt… God damn it, Tony, I love you. I love you so much! I just wish I’d realized it sooner… before I almost lost you because of that bitch.” Paul turned away once more, his shoulder shaking with silent sobs, his chest heaving with each breath he took, and his hands clenching his glasses tightly.
Tony stared at Paul silently in surprise. Groaning a bit and wincing, he struggled to put himself in a sitting position. He managed to prop himself up with help from his pillows and moved his left hand away from Paul’s. He raised his right hand and gently placed in under Paul’s chin, making him face him.
“Oh Paul…” Tony whispered, raising his other hand to brush away Paul’s tears. Paul then leaned into Tony, wrapping his arms gently around his waste and buried his face into his shoulder, letting out a choked sob. Tony, being careful not to hurt himself or Paul with his I.V., moved his arms around Paul, pulling the brunet closer as possible. He absentmindedly began stroking the back of Paul’s head, his finger intertwining with Paul’s messy brown hair.
“I’m right here, Paul, and I’m alive. I’m never gonna leave you again, I promise.” Tony whispered into Paul’s ear, holding him tightly and never wanting to let go. Paul nodded slightly, tears still in his eyes. “I love you too, Paul… I’ve always have… and always will… nothing’s ever gonna change that, you fool.” Tony promised, burying his face into Paul’s shoulder, feeling his heart beat against his.
Julie, meanwhile, leaned forward gently against the door, fighting back tears. She didn’t know that much about Paul’s second marriage, but she did know that it had to have hurt Paul so much when Sarah died. Knowing that Tony almost died less than twelve hours after they pretty much got together… now she knew why Paul never left Tony’s side during that whole ordeal. She sighed, leaning a bit more against the door….
…making the door to open all the way, causing the young woman to tumble into the room very unceremoniously and land on the floor with a soft thump.
Tony and Paul broke their embrace and turned to face the new visitor, who was cursing to herself, rubbing her forehead and nose.
“Oh, ouch, god damn fucking door, ouch.” Julie muttered before getting on her knees and looked up. She gave a nervous laugh. “Erm, hi guys?” Julie smiled timidly, waving shyly with a blush on her face.
“Hey kid.” Tony smiled, blushing nervously.
“Did you hear everything?” Paul frowned, putting back on his glasses as Julie got to her feet.
“Uh, yeah, and, ah, sorry for eavesdropping, but can I be the first to say something about you two?” Julie blushed, rubbing the back of her neck. Both men stared at her in uncertainty, waiting for her response. Julie took a deep breath and smiled broadly; “I’m so happy you two are ok and, well, back together again. And…” her smile got larger, “You guys are so CUTE together!” she squealed, accidentally falling into fan-girl mode. This caused a small bark of laughter from Paul and a giggle from Tony.
Next segment will be finish this part, and after that is the epilogue. It's sad to think this is ending, but there is already plans for a sequel being planned out. I might ask for help from you guys for certain... things, but that won't happen for a while.
So keep an eye out for the next segment sometime in the next few days before the 14th.
So, anyways, here is the start of Part 9: In which the gang play the waiting game, Melissa gets a bitching out for her flirting, Paul talks with Julie and then Tony, and Greg gets glomped.
Title: Affirmation
Author: Shinigami518
Rating: PG-13, but with some bits of R in it.
Main Character(s) and/or pairings: Ryan/Colin (which'll happen near the end), Ryan/Pat, Colin/Deb, Tony/Paul, Jeff/Greg (one-sided)
Summary: A crazy woman abducts Ryan, Colin, their wives, Greg, Drew, Wayne, Brad, and Chip. Pat and Deb are released with only minor injuries, but the guys are still missing. Three college students end up stumbling into this crazed plan by accident and have to help the guys find a way to escape, but there are several big problems they have to overcome.
View the last parts here on my journal (and don't forget to comment on them if you haven't):
Prologue
Part 1a
Part 1b
Part 2a
Part 2b
Part 2c
Part 2d
Part 2e
Part 2f
Part 3a
Part 3b
Part 4a
Part 4b
Part 5a
Part 5b
Part 6a
Part 6b
Part 7
Part 8a
Part 8b
Part 8c
Part 9 - I believe you can’t appreciate true love until you’ve been burned
1:21PM
Albany Medical Centre: waiting room…
“This is the part I really hate: the waiting.” Jeff sighed, plopping down in a chair in the waiting room.
“Tell me about it.” Mike groaned in agreement.
Once at the hospital, Ryan, Colin, Drew, Greg, Wayne, Brad, Chip, Tony, and Julie were immediately ushered in for two main reasons: surgery and to be checked out for any permanent damage. That was over three hours ago.
Josie, Mike, Sandi, Jeff, Paul, Robert, Janet, Will, Alicia, Sam, and Melissa were stuck in the waiting room, waiting for the results of their friends’ health. The small family was huddled together, waiting for news on their daughter. Josie, Sandi, Melissa, and Sam stood around the room, looking troubled. Alicia sat with Mike and Jeff, swinging her legs every now and then, waiting with frustration. Paul sat away from the other, hands clasped in silent prayer, the blood cleaned off his face, but not his shirt.
“They should’ve told us something by now!” Melissa moaned, taping her foot and nervously picking at her shirt sleeve. “I mean, how long does it takes to do a check up on these guys?!” she asked out loud to no one in particular.
“Maybe it’s because it takes a while for a scan to come back.” Julie remarked, walking through the emergency room doors. Janet and Robert immediately got up and ran to their daughter.
“Are you ok?” Janet asked.
“Just a bump on the head, but it was close to being a concussion, though.” Julie answered, rubbing the back of her head in emphasis.
“What about the others?” Josie asked next. At that instant, the door behind Julie slammed open, revealing Wayne, Drew, Chip, and Brad, minus the metal collars and visor. But there was one change in the four: Drew was wearing sunglasses.
“Drew?” Jeff asked, a bit worried.
“Have to wear these things until my eyesight fully recovers in a few days.” Drew stated, pointing to his shades.
“And you three?” Sandi asked Brad, Chip and Wayne.
“Our vocal chords are still sore from the collar.” Wayne replied, sounding a bit hoarse.
“They’ll be back to normal in a few days.” Chip added.
“That’s a relief.” Will smiled.
“And Greg’ll be joining us in a bit. He’s just being checked out of surgery. They got that damn chip out of his neck. The doc said there wasn’t any permanent damage, thank God.” Drew put in. Jeff gave a sigh of relief.
“And Ryan, Colin, and Tony? What about them?” Alicia asked, standing up in concern.
“Ryan and Colin are in surgery right now, but according to the docs, this is a delicate and… very weird ordeal for them. It isn’t everyday these guys deal with pregnant guys, if you get my drift. We… we still haven’t heard anything yet about Tony.” Julie explained with a frown on her face.
“Damn…” Sandi whispered, looking over at Paul, who remained sitting in silent prayer.
“I was worried about you, you know?” Melissa smiled softly, walking up to Brad slowly.
“Really?” Brad smiled back. Melissa wrapped her arms around Brad’s neck.
“I’m so happy you’re gonna be ok and able to speak normally in no time.” Melissa continued, leaning forward to kiss Brad on the lips.
“OH GET A FUCKING LIFE, WILL YOU?!”
Brad broke Melissa’s hold on him and spun around to see Greg, looking like he was back to his normal smartass self.
“GREG!” Jeff smiled, running over and giving his friend a giant hug, nearly knocking him over.
“Whoa! Easy there, tiger! I maybe standing but I’m not tackle-ready, yet.” Greg exclaimed, surprised by Jeff’s actions. Jeff pulled away, blushing slightly.
“Sorry. Just- I’m just so happy you’re ok.” Jeff replied, shyly. Sam raised an eyebrow in interest as Melissa broke away from Brad and walked over to Greg, looking annoyed.
“Glad to see you’re back to normal, but that doesn’t give you the right to ruin my moment with Brad!” Melissa seethed, hands on her hips. Greg frowned, turning to face the young blonde.
“Well, little missy, I’ll have you know that Brad is already taken! He’s got a girlfriend back home who loves him very much from what I’ve heard.” Greg retorted crossly.
“Well excuse me, Greg, if I want to show a little affection towards one of my favorite guys!” Melissa shot back, hand on her chest.
“A little? Melissa, you were almost ready to french him!” Sam exclaimed. Melissa froze like a Popsicle in a freezer, a “busted” look on her face, before spinning around to face her friend.
“No I wasn’t!” Melissa protested, blushing slightly.
“Come on, Lissy, you’ve been flirting and planting little kisses on him during this whole ordeal! Hell, you were also flirting with Jeff LAST night!” Julie snapped, hands on her hips.
“It’s called ‘being available!’” Melissa stated irritably.
“It’s called ‘being a whore’, Melissa.” Will muttered loudly, leaning back in his chair. Melissa glared at the tall young man.
“Oh fuck off, Will! I’m just seeing if I have a chance with these guys!” Melissa protested.
“A chance?! Lissy, you’ve as much luck in hooking up with them as Will has in hooking up with Hannah Montana!” Julie spat, pointing at her brother.
“Who the fuck is Hannah Montana?” Will whispered to Mike, who just shrugged in response.
“Oh, come on, Julie! I’m just lightening up the mood a bit around here!” Melissa stated angrily.
“By hitting on a guy who could be old enough to be your dad?! As Greg said, get a fucking life, will ya?” Julie snapped incredulously. Brad pouted slightly after hearing Julie’s remark about his age. Melissa stomped over and stood face-to-face with Julie, only a few inches away from her face.
“Don’t get pissy with me, Julie; you’ve no idea what I’ve been through. You don’t know what it’s like not knowing what’s going on! Not knowing if several of your friends are alive or not because of a psychopath!” Melissa hissed angrily. Julie looked down, her bangs shadowing her eyes.
“You’re right… but you’ve never seen what Jeff, Alicia, Paul and I saw: a crazed woman - that same psychopath you mentioned - getting shot, killed… and a man I idolize… a man I loved- love… nearly get killed saving the one he loves.” Julie replied coldly, stepping away from a now stunned Melissa, running past her and the others and through the hospital doors, back down the halls she previously came down.
“Julie!” Will exclaimed, running over to the doors in time to see his sister run past several orderlies, doctors and nurses.
Melissa stood in place, letting Julie’s words sink in. “She right… she’s been right all this time… I’ve been such a fool… I- I really thought nothing bad was going to happen to us…” Melissa said softly, tears in her eyes.
“That’s the problem with life, kid,” Sandi explained, walking up to Melissa, “There’s no reset button here. You gotta live your life the way you see fit. That means learning from your mistakes.”
“Thank God we’re all ok.” Jeff sighed, leaning slightly against Greg.
“Not all of us are in the clear, Jeff.” Greg reminded him. Paul finally got up and walked over to the large hospital doors.
“Paul?” Josie asked, walking up to her longtime friend.
“I’ll keep an eye on the kid. If there’s any news about Tony, Ryan or Colin, gimme a call on my mobile.” Paul told Josie, stopping to look at her. He then went back after the young woman, vanishing through the doors, leaving Josie alone, staring at the doors in silence.
“Oh Paul…” Josie whispered, watching the doors close before her.
A minute later, further down the halls…
“Kid!”
Julie spun around to see Paul approaching her in a quick pace. Julie sighed, running a hand through her drooping bangs.
“Did mom send you?” Julie asked. Paul stopped in front of her, catching his breath.
“No, I came on my own.” Paul answered. Julie nodded.
“Right. Why are you here?” Julie asked, a bit skeptical.
“Considering you ran off like that and why you did, I figured I was the best one for you to talk with.” Paul replied.
“Look, I’m sorry about snapping at Melissa, but I’m just tired with her constant flirting and naivety…” Julie began, venting slightly.
“She knows.” Paul cut her off. Julie blinked in surprise.
“Wh-what do you mean?” Julie asked.
“She knows she was wrong. She just didn’t want to admit it upfront.” Paul explained, placing a hand on the young woman’s shoulder. Julie glanced away from Paul.
“It took several people she cares about to nearly die for her to realize it, stubborn bitch.” Julie muttered softly. Paul nodded in agreement.
“You ok now?” Paul asked, still staring down at the young woman.
“I’m fine.” Julie stated firmly, still not meeting Paul’s gaze. Paul gave her a disbelieving look. Julie sighed, finally turning her head to look up at him.
“A man I idolize… a man you and I love nearly died. And the woman who did that was shot to death in front of my eyes. If I wasn’t already feeling numb over my grandmother’s death last month and already aware of the previous troubles during these past several days, I’d probably be even more freaked out than I am right now.” Julie took a deep breath before wiping the tears from her eyes with her hands. “Why do people do this? Why do they do this to others because they think it’s the right thing?” she asked, hugging herself. Paul said nothing, but pulled the young woman closer into an awkward hug. Julie looked up at him surprise, her hands on his chest.
“Some people are just really messed up, I guess. They might be so traumatized by something that their whole line of thinking gets screwed up.” Paul tried to answer, but it was hard to come up with an answer to such a question when there are so many to give.
“I guess it’s true when they say ‘Life’s a bitch…’” Julie sighed, her arms snaking around Paul’s waste. They stayed that way for at least a minute, Paul rocking her slightly in his embrace. They finally broke apart, Julie furiously wiping her eyes with her shirt sleeves.
“Sorry, sorry about that. God I’ve been crying all day, I’m surprised I haven’t dried out.” Julie muttered. Paul just shrugged.
“It’s been a really fucked up day; for all of us.” Paul stated, hand on her shoulder.
“Right,” Julie agreed, “What I wouldn’t give for a having a normal life again.” Julie sighed, walking over to the leftmost wall, leaned against it back first and sliding down until she sat with her back against the wall. Paul walked up to her.
“Yeah, nothing to worry about except boys and passing your classes, right?” Paul smirked. Julie let out a soft laugh.
“Mostly the latter than the former, actually. I’m not really interested in hooking up until I graduate.” Julie corrected. Paul sat down on her left, leaning against the wall. “I guess that’s one of the big differences between me and Lissy. She loves dating guys more than I do and she parties a bit more.” She went on.
“Almost like what Lolita was like according to those guards: A party girl who loves boys more than studying.” Paul remarked. Julie nodded slowly and sadly.
“Maybe that’s why I feel a bit sorry for her.” Julie sighed, resting her arms on her bent knees and leaning forward a bit.
“Who?” Paul raised an eyebrow.
“Lolita. She just wanted to go out and have fun, not to get raped. It messed her up and she wanted help, but no one would listen to her,” Julie looked down at her boots, “But that’s the only reason why I feel sorry for her. I don’t feel sorry for her killing her rapist. I don’t feel sorry for her kidnapping Ryan, Colin, Greg, and the guys,” her voice was rising as she went on as was her anger, “I don’t feel sorry for her killing Pat and Deb! I don’t feel sorry for her knocking up Ryan and Colin, nearly blinding Drew, hurting Greg with that V-chip, and making Wayne, Brad, and Chip wear those fucking collars! I don’t feel sorry for her attacking us! And- and most of all, I don’t feel sorry for her shooting Tony when she was trying to kill us!” Julie took a deep breath to calm down. “I-I mean, Tony never did anything to her, he just wanted to stop her from shooting us…” Julie sighed, resting her head on her knees.
“You love him? Tony, you love him, don’t you?” Paul question took Julie by surprise, making her stare at him in shock. She blushed softly and looked back at her feet.
“A little. I mean, it just started off as a small crush, but for the past year… Yes. I love him. But- but not as much as you probably do.” Julie stated honestly, blushing and then smiling mischievously at Paul. Paul blushed a bit and looked away.
“Y-yeah, right.” Paul stuttered, looking up at the ceiling.
“You love him? Tony, you love him, don’t you?” Julie repeated Paul’s question, this time directing it at the one who asked it. Paul gave a wistful smile, still staring at the ceiling.
“Yeah… yes, I guess I do,” he gave a small laugh, “I’ve been denying it for so long, I guess there are something’s you can’t put off forever.” He was still smiling to himself, looking back down at the floor.
“Right…” Julie nodded.
“Excuse me?”
Both Paul and Julie looked up to see a female doctor with short strawberry blonde hair and hazel eyes, looking down at them.
“Is one of you a…,” the doctor glanced down at her clipboard, “Paul Merton?” Paul immediately shot to his feet, nearly knocking Julie over by his quickness.
“Yes, yes, I’m Paul Merton, what is it?” Paul exclaimed, smoothing out his hair and then straightening his shirt and glasses.
“Oh, thank God. You see, I’m Doctor West and one of our patient’s been asking for you and a young woman he keeps referring to as “the kid”. He also said that if we can’t find you two, he’d hijack a wheelchair and go out to find you and the young lady himself.” Doctor West sighed in relief. Julie shot to her feet in surprise.
“Tony?” Julie gasped.
“He- He’s ok?” Paul asked, hoping he heard right.
“He has several bruised ribs, two that are broken, plus a tender back from hitting the wall, a scar from where the bullet grazed him, and a concussion, but none of his injuries are life-threatening. I want to keep him here for two to three days to make sure he’s healing correctly and not having any reactions to the medication and painkillers we’re giving him.” Doctor West explained, placing a hand on Paul’s arm.
“Well, can we see him now? Do our friends know?” Julie asked swiftly.
“Yes, you can see him. Dr. Brennan is already meeting up with your friends to let them know.” Doctor West answered.
“What about Ryan and Colin? Are they ok yet?” Julie asked again. Doctor West frowned.
“They’re still in surgery. This is a really complicated matter, Miss. Sanders; our doctors have never dealt with anything like this before.” Doctor West explained.
Julie looked away, “I know… I just hope they make it.” She sighed softly. Doctor West nodded, and then looked at Paul nervously.
“I do hop you don’t mind me asking, Mr. Merton, but Mr. Slattery has been adamant on seeing you, may I ask how are you and he related?” Doctor West asked inquisitively and uncertainly. Julie gulped loudly and Paul took an audibly deep breath before responding.
“I...,” Paul felt his cheeks burn as he tried to figure out how to word his response properly. He finally relaxed and stated his response without hesitation or fear. “I’m his boyfriend.”
Julie stared at the man with wide eyed surprise, biting her lips to stop herself from laughing at the seriousness on Paul’s face and the look of total surprise on Doctor West’s face.
“I… see,” Doctor West said softly. “This way, please.” She gestured the two to follow her lead. Both Paul and Julie overheard her mutter loudly to herself, “It’s always the good looking ones and the British ones…” causing both to stifle a laugh.
Doctor West led Julie and Paul down the hall and they soon found themselves in front of room 452: Tony’s room.
“You may see him.” Doctor West stated.
“Thank you Doctor…” Paul thanked her.
“It’s the least I can do. Maybe seeing you two will calm him down.” Doctor West smiled. “Now if you excuse me, I need to check on one of my other patients.” She then turned and left down the hall. Julie looked up at Paul and placed a gentle hand on his arm.
“You go in first. He probably wants to see you more than me.” Julie suggested. Paul nodded, not going to argue with her. He turned and opened the door to the room, entering it.
Tony was lying on the hospital bed, staring up at the ceiling. He was awake, sporting a bandage over the wound the bullet left on his forehead. He was connected to an I.V. drip and was in a hospital gown, partially covered by the blankets over his lower torso. He also was talking softly to himself as he stared up at the ceiling.
“25 - 26 - 27 - 28 - 29...” Tony was counting to himself. Paul closed the door not all the way, leaving enough space for Julie to peer through, and stood with his hands on his hips.
“What are you doing?” Paul asked, laughing slightly. Tony looked down at Paul and smiled broadly over seeing Paul.
“Counting ceiling tiles until you arrive,” Tony replied, matter-of-factually. He then went back to counting the tiles, “33 - 34 - 35 - 36 - 37…”
Paul shook his head, walking up to his dear friend, “Are you really bored or are you just high on the painkillers the doc gave you?” Paul asked. Tony just shrugged.
“A little from column A, a little from column B.” Tony smiled dopily. Paul found a spot on the bed and sat himself down, still looking at Tony.
“You ok, though, huh?” Paul asked, gently placing a hand on top of Tony’s left hand. Tony nodded.
“Just hurts a bit when I laugh, plus a small headache, but the painkillers are working great. The docs say I’ll be fine in a couple of weeks.” Tony smiled, wincing slightly. His expression dampened as he eyed Paul’s shirt, still stained with blood, Tony’s blood. The memory of awakening in Paul’s arms lingered in his mind. The image of his dearest friend’s face stained with blood and tears, because of him, because of his heroic almost sacrifice. His fingers instinctively wrapped around Paul’s, gripping them tightly. They almost lost each other today, and even though he was feeling a bit better, he couldn’t help but wonder about Paul.
“Tony is everything ok?” Paul asked worriedly. Tony blinked in surprise and shook his head.
“No, no, I’m fine, but… are you alright, though?” Tony asked, seriously. Paul looked away, his smile fading into a frown.
“I thought I was going to lose you today,” Paul began, “When I saw you getting hit… It was like that bullet had struck me and not you. And seeing you lie there, not moving, I… I really thought I lost you forever. Your face was so pale... and the blood from that damn wound made it look worse than it was…,” Paul looked up at the ceiling, taking a deep breath before going on, tears rimming his blue eyes, “Damn it, I already lost Sarah, I… I can’t- I couldn’t bear the thought that I might’ve…,” he lowered his head, tears finally rolling down his face, “lost you as well.” He sniffed loudly, closing his eyes as more tears fell. He removed his glasses and ran a hand over his face to wipe away the tears.
“I can’t lose you again, Tony… after all the shit we’ve been through. Not before I get the chance to tell you that…,” Paul finally turned to face Tony, the tears he shed leaving small trails down his face, “That I’ve been such a fool… I should’ve told you much sooner how I felt… God damn it, Tony, I love you. I love you so much! I just wish I’d realized it sooner… before I almost lost you because of that bitch.” Paul turned away once more, his shoulder shaking with silent sobs, his chest heaving with each breath he took, and his hands clenching his glasses tightly.
Tony stared at Paul silently in surprise. Groaning a bit and wincing, he struggled to put himself in a sitting position. He managed to prop himself up with help from his pillows and moved his left hand away from Paul’s. He raised his right hand and gently placed in under Paul’s chin, making him face him.
“Oh Paul…” Tony whispered, raising his other hand to brush away Paul’s tears. Paul then leaned into Tony, wrapping his arms gently around his waste and buried his face into his shoulder, letting out a choked sob. Tony, being careful not to hurt himself or Paul with his I.V., moved his arms around Paul, pulling the brunet closer as possible. He absentmindedly began stroking the back of Paul’s head, his finger intertwining with Paul’s messy brown hair.
“I’m right here, Paul, and I’m alive. I’m never gonna leave you again, I promise.” Tony whispered into Paul’s ear, holding him tightly and never wanting to let go. Paul nodded slightly, tears still in his eyes. “I love you too, Paul… I’ve always have… and always will… nothing’s ever gonna change that, you fool.” Tony promised, burying his face into Paul’s shoulder, feeling his heart beat against his.
Julie, meanwhile, leaned forward gently against the door, fighting back tears. She didn’t know that much about Paul’s second marriage, but she did know that it had to have hurt Paul so much when Sarah died. Knowing that Tony almost died less than twelve hours after they pretty much got together… now she knew why Paul never left Tony’s side during that whole ordeal. She sighed, leaning a bit more against the door….
…making the door to open all the way, causing the young woman to tumble into the room very unceremoniously and land on the floor with a soft thump.
Tony and Paul broke their embrace and turned to face the new visitor, who was cursing to herself, rubbing her forehead and nose.
“Oh, ouch, god damn fucking door, ouch.” Julie muttered before getting on her knees and looked up. She gave a nervous laugh. “Erm, hi guys?” Julie smiled timidly, waving shyly with a blush on her face.
“Hey kid.” Tony smiled, blushing nervously.
“Did you hear everything?” Paul frowned, putting back on his glasses as Julie got to her feet.
“Uh, yeah, and, ah, sorry for eavesdropping, but can I be the first to say something about you two?” Julie blushed, rubbing the back of her neck. Both men stared at her in uncertainty, waiting for her response. Julie took a deep breath and smiled broadly; “I’m so happy you two are ok and, well, back together again. And…” her smile got larger, “You guys are so CUTE together!” she squealed, accidentally falling into fan-girl mode. This caused a small bark of laughter from Paul and a giggle from Tony.
Next segment will be finish this part, and after that is the epilogue. It's sad to think this is ending, but there is already plans for a sequel being planned out. I might ask for help from you guys for certain... things, but that won't happen for a while.
So keep an eye out for the next segment sometime in the next few days before the 14th.