Warnings: PG-13 mild violence, angst up the ying yang. I have no idea where this came from, usually I write a lot more action not emotions and introspection.
Disclaimer: They are mine. I won custody in court. I DID, really. Okay, I didn't, but I still didn't make any money made. So don't waste your time suing me. Pet Fly, Paramount and Sci-fi, you guys have enough money without my piggy bank though why you don't wise up and use some of it to make a Sentinel movie I don't understand.
Author's note: I have no actual information about how or why a witness would be sequestered and my web search didn't help much. So, I apologize in advance for any inaccuracies in the legal aspects of the story. Ditto for the medical though I did check out the information Robyn has posted as reference material for stories on her web site, which I highly recommend.
SA List Themefic for July: This is for Wolfshy who requested a story, which has Blair, drugged with lots of pain. Rafe has to comfort him because Jim is on a trip and having troubles getting home. Jim angst with Jim comforting Blair in the end.
Thanks to Kim for being the quickest beta in the mid-west. So I could post this before I leave on vacation. *g*
Email: Trishbsc@aol.com
Trishbsc
Simon stared at the double doors, which led to the operating room. Hoping to see the doctor appear, to tell him everything was going to be all right. He had been here too often, usually for one of his officers. It was the part of being a Captain that he hated the most. Waiting to hear if one of his men would live or if he'd have to tell someone's family and friends about the death of one of their own. He had performed that duty too many times in his long career. Every detail of each incident was deeply engraved in his memory. It was not a duty he wanted to perform for Naomi Sandburg.
Blair may officially be only an Observer, but somewhere along the line, he became one of Simon's men. When had that happened? Somehow it had, without Simon being consciously aware of the transition. As he paced, he tried to pinpoint the triggering event. It was after Lash, when he had figured out Sandburg wouldn't be driven by fear out of Major Crimes. If Lash hadn't sent him running back to the halls of academia, nothing would. Even Simon had a healthy respect and fear of that particular serial killer.
As different memories flashed by, Simon identified when his personal feelings for Sandburg began. It was after the incident with the Golden-laced pizza. Seeing Sandburg lying in that bed, needing the respirator to breathe for him, had brought out the protective feelings previously Simon felt only for his son. The Captain felt partially responsible for that incident. Blair had been ambushed in the bullpen, where he should have been safe. It was Sandburg's unwavering trust in Ellison that had kept him from dying in the garage.
Simon was sure of the day that confirmed his understanding of Sandburg's role in their lives. There had been no doubt of Sandburg's place in Major Crimes that horrifying day at the fountain. Even Simon had been unable to keep the tears from flowing when the paramedics had pronounced him dead. Blair had become an integral part of the unit without any of them realizing it, until they were faced with losing him forever.
He paced another circuit round the waiting room. The usual suspects were all here. Henri and Rafe were getting coffee down at the cafeteria. Joel and Megan were conferring quietly in the corner. Yes, the usual suspects were here. All but one, the most important one to the man under the knife, wasn't present. James Ellison wasn't here pacing the room, badgering the nurses for information or trying to use his heightened senses to monitor the operation. Jim didn't even know what had happened to his partner yet.
He had been called down to Los Angeles to testify in a major drug case a few days ago. Simon was following the case via the district attorney for LA County. Jim's testimony would probably be finished the day after tomorrow. Jim had arrested two of the mules from the drug ring when the heroin had been smuggled into Cascade. His testimony was straight forward, but an essential link in the chain of events leading to the arrest of the Leo Romano, drug lord. Jim's testimony would tie the ship the two mules came off of, back to the Romano syndicate's ownership. The defense attorney was very slippery and sharp. He knew he was eventually going to lose the case unless there was a procedural error during the trial or one of the witnesses recanted so he was stalling the process, filing numerous motions and dragging out every cross- examination. Otherwise, Jim would have already returned to Cascade by now.
Simon hadn't notified the DA in charge of the incident yet. He didn't want to do that unless he had some idea of Blair's chances of recovery. Simon refused to even think about the possibility of his not recovering. Technically, Jim was not allowed to receive messages from outside sources. At the request of the defense counsel, he and the other witnesses were being sequestered until their testimony was given. Every message had to be reviewed and approved before being relayed to those in confinement. Simon was deeply concerned about what would happen when Jim found out. Particularly, since in the eyes of the court, Blair was not considered family to Jim. This would probably not be viewed as compelling enough to release the order of sequestering.
Simon's internal reflections ended as Rafe and Henri returned, carrying a tray of coffee. The fact that two of his men had been injured today had briefly slipped his mind until he saw the two men enter the room. Rafe's eye looked spectacular. It was swollen shut and had turned several different shades of black, blue and green. His arm was in a cast. Minor injuries compared to Blair's.
Rafe sat down with Megan and Joel, handing them each a cup from the tray. Rafe's sunken posture revealed that he was obviously continuing to blame himself for what had happened to Blair. Henri approached Simon, holding Simon's favorite blend, shrugging his shoulders and discretely nodding back at his partner, then shaking his head. Nothing Henri said had reached though the black pit of guilt surrounding his partner. Henri had talked to him, but clearly hadn't reached him. Simon would try later. Rafe's emotional state would be easier if they could get good news about Blair's condition first. Before Simon could get a drink of the coffee, the doctor entered the waiting room, still wearing bloody surgical scrubs. This was the moment they had been waiting for the last three hours. Simon was the first to reach the doctor.
"How's Sandburg?" He asked without any preliminary pleasantries.
The doctor removed his surgical cap before answering, "Mr. Sandburg made it through the surgery, but his condition is still considered critical. The bullet entered the epigastric area then exited to the right of the spine. The physical damage to the organs was actually what we consider to be minor. The bullet did nick the small intestine, but leakage was minimal and easily controlled. We'll have to watch for peritonitis, but that is not of major concern right now. Because of the massive blood loss suffered due to the delay in medical treatment, his blood pressure is seriously low and we are having difficulty getting it stabilized. Of secondary concern, there are signs of traumatic pancreatitis. If we would allow Mr. Sandburg to awaken, he would be in tremendous pain right now. To allow his body time to recover, we have him in a medically induced coma. Because of this, we also have him on a respirator. I wish I could give you better news. It would be a very good idea if the rest of his family was contacted and told to come here."
Megan gasped, turning away from the doctor to rest her face on Joel's shoulder. She and Blair had become much closer recently. It had helped Blair having someone else to confide in about Jim's abilities. Simon wasn't easily approachable on personal matters, so he had talked to her. His death in the fountain was a reminder of his mortality, the possibility of leaving Jim without a Guide had almost become a reality, which had scared the daylights out of him, even more than the thought of his own life ending.
"God, is it really that bad?" Rafe implored anxiously, running his hand through his hair.
"His chances of making it though the next twenty-four hours are only fifty-fifty. Those odds increase in his favor with each hour that no complications arise. But I strongly recommend you get his family here anyway. Patients often improve dramatically when surrounded by their loved ones. He'll be in recovery for several hours before being moved into the ICU ward. Visits will be limited to ten minutes every half-hour. I'll make sure one of the nurses let you know when he's settled."
The doctor left the room leaving the detective to process what they had heard. As head of the surgical unit, he was quite familiar with the group of people gathered in the waiting room. He had seen them here frequently, as one or another of them fell victim to the violence they fought. This particular group was closer than other police units. He wasn't sure why, but he suspected it had to do with man that was once again under his care.
"Does anyone know how to get in touch with Naomi?" Simon asked, breaking the silence.
"I think I remember Blair saying she was on a retreat in New Mexico, something about cosmic vortexes converging in an area around Taos," Megan answered thoughtfully. "I know that she checks her email religiously. I can find it using the address book on Blair's laptop and have her call me."
"What are we going to do about Jim? He's the one person who would do Blair the most good right now?" Henri asked.
"I'll talk to the DA in charge of the case. Maybe we can get Jim back here until he's really needed to testify," Simon volunteered.
"I'll stay here with Sandburg. I'm not going to be much use around the bullpen until I can see straight and this cast comes off. I can do more good staying here."
"Joel and I will keep you company for a while. Hairboy needs all of us right now." Henri added, dropping his arm around Rafe's shoulder.
"How about we make up a rotating schedule for when we're off-duty, to make sure the kid isn't ever alone? I can be here late nights. I'm a night owl anyway. At least, until we get Jim back here where he belongs. Rafe can take the day shift while the rest of us are on duty," Joel proposed. He may not officially be a Captain any longer, but he still had the administrative skills required to take charge.
"Sounds like we have a plan," Simon approved gruffly.
The DA, Roger Horton, had been fortunate to catch the judge still in his chambers. The early evening phone call from Cascade had just made this case potentially much more complicated. Ellison's testimony was key and this news would be distracting at best.
"Your Honor, one of the prosecution's witnesses, a Detective James Ellison from Cascade, Washington, has just received word that his police partner has been critically injured during a bank robber." The DA deliberately left out the detail Sandburg wasn't actually a cop, but a student observer riding as Ellison's partner. "We request that the order of sequestering be removed so that he may..."
"The defense objects, Your Honor. The Court has already ruled concerning the need to have the individual witnesses sequestered. This does not meet the qualifications to remove, as it is not a family member..."
"...The bond between police partners is often closer then that of family..." argued the DA vehemently.
The judge slammed his gavel against the top of the desk. "Direct your comments to me, gentlemen, or I will hold both of you in contempt. Now, as to the motion before me, the request to release Detective Ellison from sequestering is denied."
The defense attorney, Ken Albright, smiled triumphantly at the judge's decision. Maybe this would rattle Ellison's testimony if he were more concerned about his partner than about what he was saying. However, his glee was not long-lasting as the judge continued.
"However, I come from a long line of law enforcement officers. I became the black sheep of the family when I decided to be an attorney and fight crime from this side of the bench. This does not prevent me from clearly remembering the close bond, which exists between partners. Therefore, I see no reason that the sequence of witnesses cannot be changed. I will hear Detective Ellison's testimony starting tomorrow, as soon as the defense finishes the cross-examination of the current witness. Please inform the Detective that we will make every attempt to expedient both his testimony and his return to Cascade. On a personal note, please extend my sympathies and hope for a speedy recover for his partner."
The Judge glared at Albright, daring him to object to the ruling. The man decided that his continued silence would only help his situation and did not object.
Jim was sitting on the bed watching the ball game. He hated trials. He hated having to give testimony before idiotic defense attorneys who knew they couldn't win, but were determined to make the process as painful as possible for all involved. Most of all, he hated being away from his territory. The Sentinel aspect of his personality was demanding to return home, to his territory and to his Guide.
Blair had not been able to get away from his responsibilities at Rainier. After the recent trouble with Brad Ventriss, his superiors at University were not forgiving of any further unexcused absences. Chancellor Edwards, in particular, seemed to have it in for Blair. Since he was without his Guide, Jim had promised to keep all the dials set on low. He could not take the risk of zoning with Blair two states away.
He was surprised to hear a knock on his door. When he opened it, he was even more surprised to see Roger Horton standing nervously in front of him. Judging from the look on his face, he didn't have good news.
"Detective, you might want to sit down before I tell you this," the man said, confirming Jim's worst fears.
"What's happened?" Jim asked tentatively as he sat on the edge of the bed.
The DA sat in the chair opposite him. "I got a phone call earlier this afternoon from your Captain. There's no easy way to say this. Earlier today, there was a bank robbery in Cascade. The robbers shot your partner. He's in critical condition at Cascade General." Horton stopped talking as Jim jumped to his feet and grabbed his suitcase from the closet.
"Where do you think you're going?" He asked puzzled. Surely, the man knew if he tried to leave, he would be detained.
"Isn't it obvious?" Jim answered sarcastically. "I'm going back to Cascade," he continued curtly as he started throwing his clothes haphazardly into the suitcase.
"You can't do that. This whole case will fall apart without your testimony. You're the only one who can link the ship and those men back to Romano."
"My partner needs me," Jim exclaimed angrily.
"If you leave now, Romano walks. Do you really want that? Would your partner want that?"
Jim stared at him for a long moment, before sighing heavily. He shook his head. Right now, Jim didn't care if Romano walked, but Blair wouldn't want that. He knew first hand the damage that a drug as powerful as heroin could do. He sat down on the bed, holding his head in his hands. He could feel the start of a painful headache right behind his eyes.
"Detective, I know this is very difficult position for you. When I got the news, I tried to arrange for you to contact Cascade. The Judge denied my motion to discontinue the sequestering, but he did order your testimony be moved up to tomorrow. We'll try to have you out of here before tomorrow night."
"Can I at least call the hospital? I'd like to speak with the doctor in charge."
"Sorry, no. But, I have arranged for frequent progress reports to be forwarded through my office. You will be provided updates of his condition as soon as they are received. They also have my home number if there is any change in his condition tonight. You will be informed immediately. It's the best I can do."
Jim realized he was lucky to get that much approved by the Judge. "How... how did he get hurt and how bad is it?" Jim stumbled over the words. Not sure he really wanted to know since he couldn't be there.
"I don't have any details about the robbery other than he was at the bank on his lunch break with another detective. Your partner was shot once in the abdomen, the other detective was pistol whipped and suffering a broken arm. It took several hours of hostage negotiations to secure your partner's release, which is the reason the doctors are having trouble stabilizing him."
"What are his chances?"
"Your captain sounded pretty optimistic." The DA was silently praying Jim would accept that vague answer with asking further details. Captain Banks had relayed the doctor's opinion that he wasn't sure Blair would make it through the night, but he didn't want to have to tell Ellison.
Jim's senses told him the man wasn't lying, but he wasn't completely telling the entire truth. Jim had a lot of practice identifying the physiological responses to 'obfuscations' from his partner.
"Would you mind leaving me alone now? I could use some privacy."
The DA nodded and got to his feet. He closed the door behind him without making a sound. Sometimes he really hated his job and this was one of those times. Sometimes it seemed the criminals had more rights than those who were their victims or the police who arrested them.
Rafe shifted uncomfortably in the hard chair. Another one of the ten-minute visits was almost half over. Blair wasn't showing much improvement, but more importantly, he wasn't losing any ground.
"A quick trip to the bank was all I needed. If the ATM hadn't been out of order, we never would have been in that bank when it was robbed. I'm sorry, Blair. You shouldn't hang around us. You know that? They shot you because you were with me. They just assumed you were a cop too." Rafe settled back into the chair as the drugs kept Blair in the comatose state. "You hang on, kid. Ellison won't make it without you. I'm not sure any of us would be the same if we lost you, so you have to keep fighting. You hear me?"
Rafe fell silent, listening to the beeping heart monitor and the whoosh of the respirator.
"The others are at work. They'll be here to see you tonight, Blair. They arrested Larry. Moe is going to make it, too. He's on the secure floor under guard. Not that they are letting anyone from Major Crimes near the case. None of us can be objective in this case, not even Simon. You don't have to worry, they will both be put away for a long time."
The young nurse entered the room. She hated asking the young man to leave, but rules were rules and she had already given him an extra couple of minutes. Rafe obeyed her quiet request. He exited the room and slumped down in one of the chairs across the hall from the ICU. At least, this nurse hadn't drawn the blinds. He could watch his friend even if he wasn't allowed to be in the same room.
He closed his eyes tightly, trying to prevent the flashback of the events in the bank from beginning but it was a losing battle.
"Come on, Rafe. I don't have a lot of time here. Dragonlady Edwards is keeping track of my every move. I can't be late for this faculty meeting."
"You have to eat sometime, Blair. We'll go to Lee's. They are really quick."
"You know I thought I'd get a break from the mother hen routine with Jim in California, but the rest of you are just as bad as he is. Wait...a...minute, did he put you all up to this? He did! I'm right. I knew something was going on. You and Henri have taken me to lunch the last two days, and Joel stopped by with dinner last night. Megan took me out for pizza the night before."
"Busted, but don't get mad, Blair. You're right. He did kind of ask us to keep an eye on you while he was gone." Rafe revealed discomforted.
"The big lug, I can take care of myself you know?"
"Blair, I hate to tell you, but during midterms, you forget the little things, like eating and sleeping. I've noticed you do it and I don't live with you. So, just accept that your friends care and worry about you. And, for your information, we had planned on doing this even before Jim asked, so he's not the one you should get mad at."
"I'm not mad, exactly. I just wish he and everyone else wouldn't worry so much about me."
"Sorry, Blair that's not going to happen. Anyway, I still haven't got a dime on me to pay for lunch. I need to stop at the ATM." Rafe started to put his card into the slot before he saw the 'Out of Order sign' on the machine. "Crap, just what I need, its lunchtime and the lines are going to be a mile long in there."
"Come on, my friend Maggie works at this branch as a loan officer. I'm sure I can convince her to do a quick withdrawal," Blair said, pulling Rafe by the arm into the bank.
As Rafe predicated, the teller line was very long. Rafe took his place at the end of the line behind a clean-cut man in a three-piece suit that was checking his watch. Rafe took that as an indication, he would be here for a while. Sandburg went in search of his friend. Rafe saw him a few minutes later with a very petite, cute looking blonde.
Rafe was amazed. What was it about the kid that woman found so attractive? Was it the curly hair, the angelic face, the eclectic taste in wardrobe or the sparkling personality behind the smile? Whatever it was, Sandburg would be a rich man if he ever figured out a way to bottle it.
He noticed Blair was waving in his direction wearing a broad grin. As Rafe smiled and waved back, the girl turned away blushing. Blair stated to laugh, but suddenly a very grim expression crossed his face. Rafe soon saw what had upset Blair. Two men had just entered the bank wearing long overcoats, which were completely out of season for the current weather conditions.
Blair leaned over and was whispering something in his friend's ear. Her terrified gaze darted between the two men and Blair's face. Rafe wasn't sure what Sandburg said next, but it obviously convinced her. She ducked behind a counter and was moving out the back door.
Trying to get in position for a clean shot, Rafe moved out of the line. If their suspicions were correct, Rafe didn't want any of the bank customers in the line of fire. Blair was only a few feet behind him, edging toward the security guard standing by the vault talking to the bank manager. He hadn't moved more than a couple of steps when all hell broke loose.
One of the men who had just entered the bank pulled a shotgun from beneath his coat and fired at the ceiling. The second man was aiming at the security guard. "Nobody move," the first robber ordered. Rafe pulled his gun, but was blindsided by one of the bank customers standing in line. Before he knew what was happening, the large man who had been checking his watch had grabbed his arm and snapped his wrist. Rafe dropped the gun as his fingers went numb.
"Well, what do you know? We have a hero in our midst," the man sneered as Rafe clutched his broken arm to his chest. The well-dressed man pulled out a Glock and hit Rafe across the side of the head with it, knocking him to the floor. The man aimed the gun at Rafe's head, as he lay stunned on the floor unable to defend himself.
Blair yelled, "Don't", and lunged for the man, but he didn't get far. The man fired the gun almost point blank at Blair who was thrown to the floor by the impact, both hands holding his stomach.
"Make that two heroes. Anyone else?" The well-dressed man laughed as he looked around. No one in the bank moved or even made a sound.
"Good, everyone on the floor. NOW! If everyone cooperates, we will be out of here in..." The man paused as he checked his watch. "...Four minutes and twenty-two seconds. Let me introduce my little group. I'm Larry. Moe will be circulating among you shortly. Please give him all wallets, jewelry and anything else he chooses to ask for without argument. Anyone stalling will be shot. Curly will be doing the same among the tellers as he cleans out the drawers. The vault is mine."
Moe was leaning over Blair at the time, searching for his wallet. When he found and opened it he called out, "Hey Larry, this guy isn't even a cop. All he's carrying is a student I.D. and five bucks. He wasn't even armed.
"Well, we know who one of our heroes was, let's identify this one," he answered as he rolled Rafe onto his back, removing his wallet and badge. Rafe thought for a moment about fighting back, but he was unarmed and outnumbered. Better not to force a confrontation yet. "Detective Rafe, from Major Crimes. Ooh I'm impressed, one of the big boys. How nice to meet you, remember this Detective. If you move, you're dead," Larry explained as he headed for the vault.
With the three stooges focused on their collections, Rafe turned his head to check on Blair. He hadn't moved a muscle, since he had been shot. The wound was bleeding badly and Rafe couldn't determine if the bullet was still inside.
"Two minutes fifteen seconds," Larry called out from the vault. Moe and Curly finished their respective tasks and moved towards the door. Larry joined them a moment later.
"Thank you all for your donation to our cause," he said before the three men left the bank.
Unfortunately for them, waiting outside the door was a squad car. The officers were in position to fire. "Drop your weapons," one of the officers ordered. Instead of obeying, the three stooges opened fire. Curly was shot in the forehead, dying almost instantly. Moe was hit in the upper chest. Neither of the officers was injured as Larry grabbed Moe and dragged him back inside the bank.
When Rafe heard the shots being fired, he had ordered everyone away from the front of the bank. He had thought it was over, but it wasn't. As he was putting pressure on Blair's wound, he saw Larry re-entering the bank and the real nightmare began.
Rafe opened his eyes when he realized someone was shaking him. A nurse was leaning over him. "You can go back in now if you'd like."
"Thanks," Rafe answered as he rubbed his eyes, wishing he could rub out the memories just as easily.
Henri and Megan headed for the hospital ICU right after their shift ended. Both of them had to do some fast-talking to get Rafe to go down to the cafeteria for something to eat with Henri. When the time for the next visit with Blair arose, it was Megan who entered the room.
Quietly, she slipped into the room. Standing by the bed, she studied the pale face and unmoving form, which was connected to so many machines, it was frightening. She took Blair's cold hand between her own two hands, rubbing gently. It was several minutes before she found the strength to speak. "You are always so cold, Sandy. Why did you choose Cascade to live? I swear this is the coldest, wettest place on Earth. You've traveled all over the world. Why live here? Of course, if you hadn't picked Rainier for your graduate work, you never would have met Jim."
Megan pulled the chair closer to the bed, so she didn't have to let go. The doctor believed Blair could hear them talking to him. His vital signs improved when one of them was in the room. She needed to believe he was hearing her.
"Do you remember telling me you were only twelve when you read about Sentinels for the first time and decided you were going to find one? You always knew what you wanted from life. I was in University before I figured it out. Do you know how special you are? Not very many people are lucky enough to have their dreams become a reality so you need to open up those baby blues and get back to living your dream. Are you paying attention, Sandy?"
Megan had to move out of the nurse's path as she checked Blair's vitals and replace the IV Bags. The nurse tapped her watch face with a determined look. This particular nurse ruled the ICU with an iron fist. She enforced the visitation rules vigorously, no exceptions permitted. None of the detectives had even seen her smile.
"Visiting time is almost up, Sandy. How about opening those eyes for me before I have to leave? No, well, Jim should be on his way back soon. The judge moved him up on the list of witnesses, so he could get back here. Maybe you'll wake up for him."
Megan stared, hoping for a sign or movement that indicted Blair could hear her. But, there was no response, just the sound of the respirator, forcing air in and out of Blair's lungs. She tried another tactic.
"I know you think that Simon or I can take over for you as Jim's Guide, but you're wrong. I know you don't hear that very often, but in this case, you are very wrong. You were born to be a Guide, Jim's Guide, the same way he was born to be a Sentinel. You're just too close to see it. But Simon and I both know it. Simon's told me about the early days of your relationship. Jim has a hard time trusting anyone, but he trusted you from the very beginning. He doesn't trust either of us like he trusts you. NO one will ever be able to fill your shoes, so you have to get back on your feet. If you don't, Jim will be lost right behind you."
The sound of someone clearing her throat startled Megan. The nurse on duty was standing in the doorway, staring imperiously at Megan. Megan frowned, but obeyed the silently issued order to leave.
"Gotta go, Sandy. But, I'll be back as soon as they let me. Henri will be by shortly. Joel and Simon have the night shift. We all miss you so much." Megan leaned over and kissed Blair on the forehead, before leaving the room.
Simon entered the waiting room. He was surprised to see Rafe stretched out on the long couch sleeping with Joel sitting in a chair reading a book.
"He wouldn't go home with Henri and Megan, Simon. I tried, but he is more stubborn than Jim when he chooses to be," Joel explained before Simon could even ask. "Did you reach Blair's advisor at the University?"
Simon glared as he recalled his conversation with Chancellor Edwards. "Yes, I called him to let him know what happened. Before I knew it, he had transferred me to the Chancellor's office. No explanation, all he said was hold on for a second and I was speaking to the Chancellor."
"This doesn't sound good."
"No, I get the impression that this Edwards woman doesn't like Sandburg very much. She was making rude comments about his 'wasting his valuable time and the University's resources'. She continued by mentioning that Sandburg is damaging his credibility and reputation by turning down several promising career assignments because they would have forced him to leave Cascade for an extended period of time. Did you know anything about this?"
"Not exactly, I know he's come back from the last few staff meetings at the University extremely angry. Jim mentioned it, but he couldn't get the kid to open up either."
"When I mentioned what an asset he was providing to the police department to Cascade, it only made her angrier. Her only response was that if he didn't become more responsible and cooperative in fulfilling his duties to the University, he would be available to us full-time. This was right before she hung up on me."
"Simon, something is seriously wrong here. This injury had nothing to do with his police work. They were only at that branch because Blair was on his lunch hour between classes. How can she hold this against him?"
"I don't know, Joel. I think she's going to make his life even more difficult because of this. But I've been thinking about what she said and about Blair's unofficial status. He does as much, if not more work than a lot of the regular officers in the Department. I think it's about time we did something about getting him an official consultant position. If the University continues to give him a difficult time or even cuts him loose, he'd have another option."
"Simon, I think that's a great idea. I think Blair would be happier with us then at the school right now. The University's response to that Ventriss kid was discouraging for him. But, I don't think he'll like the idea of having to carry a gun."
"I was thinking about a staff consultant position. He wouldn't have to carry a gun. Between the two of us, we could draft a proposal to the Chief. Major Crimes has definitely benefited from his vast knowledge and diverse education, even if it does annoy the daylights out of me at times. We might be able to get a pilot program launched."
"I think it's a great idea. I'll help out any way I can. I don't suppose you have heard anything new on Jim?"
"Nothing good. I checked after lunch, he still hadn't gotten to testify yet. The DA says it will be at least tomorrow morning before he's done. I haven't checked in tonight yet. I wanted to see Blair for myself and give an accurate update of his condition."
"I have the next shift, then it's your turn. You'll be able to call after that."
While they were talking, the doctor entered the waiting room, clearly in search of them. "I need to speak with you," the doctor announced. "Gentlemen, it won't be possible for anyone to see Mr. Sandburg for the next few hours."
As both men jumped to their feet, fear apparent in their expressions, the doctor realized his mistake.
"This is actually good news," he clarified quickly. "Mr. Sandburg is fighting both the respirator and the drugs that should be maintaining him in the coma. We've decided, it's in his best interest to remove the respirator and allow him to wake."
"What about the pain he'll be in?" Joel asked, his brow furrowed.
"As I explained before, he will be in a great deal of pain, but we are hoping once he is coherent, we can explain his condition. In theory, he will be able to relax, which will in turn allow his body to devote the energy to healing."
Simon and Joel exchanged relieved glances.
"After removing the tube, we need to confirm that the oxygen level in his blood is satisfactory. Once we are sure he's stable, he'll be moved out of the ICU. The next time you see him, he'll be in a private room. Keep in mind, he will be in a lot of pain. I'm afraid there is only so much we can do to relieve the pancreatitis. He'll need to sleep as much as possible. Before you ask, I'm not going to limit your visits. So far, I have no doubt they are helping him. I'll ask that you continue to limit it to one person at a time and at the first sign of problems I will not hesitate to restrict your access."
"We understand, Doctor. Please let us know when we can see him," Joel answered.
Jim was finally sitting in the witness box. It was almost three in the afternoon. He knew there was no way he was going to be done before the end of the day. This meant another night away from Cascade and his partner. Albright was continuing to stall the trial. All morning long, he asked for brief recesses, made the witness repeatedly answer the same questions, posed in slightly different forms. He repeatedly requested clarifications on miscellaneous details not really related to the testimony. Horton had to repeatedly object to the irrelevant material the defense introduced to cause further delays.
The Judge finally demanded that he move along or be sanctioned. Unwilling to antagonize the Judge, he released the witness testifying before Jim.
When Ellison finally was swore in, the District Attorney had kept his questions short and to the point. Allowing Jim to tell the story in his own words. Jim also kept his statements direct with little descriptions or opinions. He didn't want to give Albright very many openings to question specific details.
All his efforts were for nothing. It was almost four before the DA was done presenting his side of the case built around Jim's testimony. When Horton released Jim, instead of beginning the cross-examination, Albright requested to recess for the day. Even though Jim and the DA both objected loudly, the Judge reluctantly agreed. He did not want to give Albright any grounds for a retrial, but he did clearly state for the record that since Albright had extra time to prepare his cross, he was expected to appear in court organized and prepared to move forward. Any further delays would result in Albright being held in contempt of the court.
Jim was transported back to the hotel for another night. The headache from the previous night was a full-blown migraine. Thanks to Blair's care in his fulfilling his role as Guide, his white noise generator and eyemask had been added to his suitcase without his knowledge. His senses had started to periodically spike throughout the day as the stress levels built and he was not yet called to testify. The only thing that kept him from exploding was the hourly reports that his partner was steadily improving.
The bottled water and ibuprofen he had requested arrived along with the Tai take-out order. As soon as he finished eating, Jim turned off all the lights and stretched out on the bed even though it was only eight in the evening. He tried several of the meditations that Blair had shown him to focus his senses, but it wasn't helping much. It was easier when he could listen to Blair's voice giving the directions.
It was almost ten, when the DA again appeared at this door. This time smiling happily as he reported that Sandburg was out of ICU. Even with the good news, Jim's senses continued to spike throughout the night. He needed to see for himself that his guide was recovering. He got very little sleep.
Rafe put down the magazine he had been skimming when he heard the sound of quiet whimpers coming from the restless figure lying on the hospital bed. Now that Blair was out of ICU, there were no restrictions on the visitation hours. Rafe intended to make sure Blair would never be alone. The nightmares were more frequent now that they were reducing the level of drugs in his system as his mind struggled to deal with the horror of the last two days. Usually, all it took to redirect a nightmare were softly spoken reassurances and a soothing touch. Rafe had gotten adept at calming an anxious dream before it became a full-blown nightmare. He reached over and smoothed the tangled curls back from Blair's moist forehead, murmuring reassurances. Instead of dropping into a deeper sleep, deep blue eyes filled with pain opened at the gentle caress.
"Jim's dead," Blair moaned.
Rafe was confused. Where did Sandburg get the idea Ellison was dead? "No, he isn't. He's fine. He just can't be here right now," Rafe corrected calmly, moving to sit on the edge of the narrow bed.
"NO! You're wrong! He's dead. They told me he was and that it was my fault. I couldn't stop them." Blair grew more agitated with each word.
"Blair, he's in Los Angeles testifying in the Romano case. Don't you remember? He left last week. I wouldn't lie to you." Rafe grabbed the flailing arm that had the IV port. He didn't want Sandburg pulling it out. He was in enough pain already without having to find another vein.
"He was at the bank. I saw them shoot him. I remember," Blair choked out, but he wasn't physically fighting Rafe any longer.
Rafe shook his head. "No, Blair. Listen, you were having a nightmare. That's all. The doc has you on some pretty strong painkillers and they are confusing your memories a little. Jim's fine, safe and sound in California."
"Are you sure?" Blair's voice sounded so uncertain, like a child who wants to believe there are no monsters lurking under the bed after a nightmare.
"I'm sure. He should almost be done with court by now. He's coming here as soon as they are done with him," Rafe explained.
"The Romano case, I remember now." Blair's fogged mind was clearing a little as a result of the burst of energy generated by the nightmare. Now, that the adrenaline was dissipating, he was forced to settle back down against the pillow.
"Right, the trial is in California," Rafe added as Blair was drifting back to sleep.
"He's safe?" Blair mumbled, closing his eyes.
"He's safe. You rest." The suggestion was unnecessary, as sleep had already reclaimed the exhausted but healing man.
Rafe picked up the magazine, but didn't open it. He waited for either the next nightmare or for Blair to wake in pain as the drugs wore completely off. Sandburg always tried so hard to hide what he was feeling. He was always more concerned with those around him then himself. When not under the influence of heavy-duty painkillers, his quick wit never left him, even in times of crisis. Those few hours in the bank, before the hostage negotiator convinced Larry to surrender would be etched in his memory forever.
"Nobody move," Larry screamed frustrated as he re-entered the bank dragging Moe.
Blair moaned and started to stir as the angry voice registered in his awareness. Larry dropped Moe on the floor behind one of the counters, before he locked the front doors and lowered the blinds. He then moved back to where the customers had gathered.
"Who pulled the alarm? I want to know who screwed this up and I want to know NOW." He seemed to study each face in the crowd. "Where's the blonde, the loan officer who was sitting at the third desk? Is she hiding?"
"She left," one of the tellers answered meekly.
"Damn bitch, if I ever see her, she's dead." Larry was stomping back and forth in front of the people, when a voice was heard over a bullpen.
"You in the bank, Come out now with your hands up."
Rafe rolled his eyes. It had to be a couple of rookies outside if they believed that would work. Larry panicked though. "Everyone move over in front of the window. I don't want anyone shooting at me through the windows. You too," he ordered pointing the gun at Rafe.
"I can't. If I let go of him, he'll bleed to death. Then, you'll be facing murder charges," Rafe answered calmly. "No one has died, yet. You could probably get a deal if you just let everyone leave right now."
"NO, no, I need to think and I don't want you behind me. Drag him over there with the others. Do it now, or I'll shoot him and put him out of his misery."
"It's okay, Rafe. Do it," murmured a weak voice.
"Sandburg?"
"Yeah, do it, Rafe. The guy is already a short step from losing it. Don't push him any further."
"Blair, I could do more damage by trying to move you."
"I'll help you," said one of the other customers, who was the last to obey Larry's orders. "My name's Roy. I'm a paramedic, at least I was before I retired."
As the two men picked Blair off the floor, he lost consciousness again. Rafe realized the bullet had gone all the way through. The pool of blood underneath Blair was larger than the one on his shirt. Roy saw the blood and cringed. The two men set Blair on the floor in front of the door. Roy took off his jacket and bunched it into a pad, rolling his patient over to place it under the wound. He then took over the job of applying pressure to the entry wound when he noticed Rafe's broken wrist. The entry wound wasn't bleeding as much as the exit wound.
Larry was pacing like a caged animal near Moe, talking to himself the entire time. The injured robber was shaking and moaning, having difficulty breathing. Larry glanced down at him after each moan, but didn't stop pacing.
A phone on one of the desks rang as the voice on the bullpen called out, "Please pick up the phone, we'd like to talk this out." Larry thought about it then picked up the phone. Rafe couldn't hear what he was saying.
"What's happening?" Blair asked weakly, drawing Rafe's attention away from Larry.
"Easy Sandburg, the bank was robbed and you were shot."
"Again? I thought this only happened when I was with Jim." Blair tried to laugh, but he gasped as a wave of pain hit him.
"Yeah, well, guess not. Looks like your friend, Maggie managed to get a squad car out here. The problem is Larry, Moe and Curly didn't make it out in time to get away clean. I think Curly is dead and the other two have barricaded themselves and us in here."
"Told Maggie to call it in, she didn't want to leave, but I convinced her," Blair said as he shifted in pain.
"You do have a way with women, Blair. I saw her blushing when she was talking to you."
"Nah, that wasn't because of me. She thinks you're cute. She wanted your phone number."
"You're kidding. Right?" Rafe asked, nervous but interested in the answer.
"Nope, told her you were single and available. You should thank me. Maggie is really nice. I've been trying to figure out a way to get the two of you together."
"This wasn't the way to do it, Sandburg."
"I'll make a note of that." Blair moaned again as the pain increased. "I don't suppose you have a couple of aspirin on you. I'm really starting to hurt here."
"Sorry Blair I don't."
Blair winced as another wave of pain spread through his stomach and back. He closed his eyes.
"No, don't fall asleep on me here. Open your eyes," Rafe ordered, frantically, grabbing hold of Blair's hand with his good arm. He checked Blair's pulse. It was weak and rapid, too fast to count. His breathing was getting shallow.
Blair opened his eyes, but didn't say anything.
"What did you mean by 'again'. When I said you had been hit?"
"Last time I was shot, it was by two robbers, one of them was Dawson Quinn. I was with Jim and Simon then, out in the woods somewhere. I can't remember where though. Is it cold in here? I'm really cold."
Another one of the customers standing near by heard the comment and took of his jacket. He handed it over to Roy, who draped it over Blair. The blood loss was starting to affect him. They needed to get him to a doctor. Rafe tried to keep him awake. "I remember Jim telling me about it. You made a date with the lady Fed, right before they airlifted you out."
"Don't remind me. At least there isn't any helicopters around here."
Just as Blair finished talking, Larry started to yell, "And if I don't see a helicopter land outside in thirty minutes, one of the hostages is gonna die."
"Oh, no," Blair groaned.
Rafe tried not to laugh, but he just couldn't help it. Judging from the look on Blair's face, if it wouldn't have hurt a great deal, he would be laughing too. Instead, he gripped Rafe's hand a little tighter and fought to stay awake.
"Try to relax, Blair. If you can release the tension in your muscles, it wouldn't hurt as much," Roy suggested.
"It's okay. It doesn't hurt anymore. Everything is numb." This time when Blair closed his eyes, no amount of coaxing could wake him again.
It had taken two hours of negotiations before Larry agreed to surrender. As it turned out, Moe and Curly were his younger brothers. He had already lost Curly. He didn't want to lose Moe, also. Several ambulances had been on the scene to transport the injured to the hospital. Rafe wasn't surprised to see that Major Crimes had gathered outside the bank. It was procedure to run a make on the license plates of the cars in the area. Someone had noticed Rafe worked for Major Crime.
"No helicopter this time, Blair." Rafe said quietly to the sleeping man.
He looked up as Joel entered the room and asked quietly, "How's he doing?"
Rafe thought about it carefully before answering. He was starting to get very concerned about Blair's emotional state. He decided it was time to discuss the issue with Joel. "Sandburg asks each time he wakes up where Jim is. He becomes a little bit more downhearted every time he wakes up and doesn't see him. I know he doesn't believe me when I tell him that Jim is okay. I don't know what else to do or say."
"Ellison has always been right by his side whenever he's been hurt before. Between the pain and the painkillers, it's no wonder he's confused and upset at Jim's continued absence."
"Is there anyway we can force them to let Jim come home?"
"Supposedly, this is Jim's last day. The DA is sure his testimony will be finished and he'll be on his way home tonight."
"He just needs to hang on for a few more hours and Jim should be here.
It was after six when the Los Angles Police finally escorted Jim to the airport. They had tried to get him a reservation, but there had been no seats available on the flight back to either Cascade or Seattle. The airline had him on the stand-by list, which was the best they could do.
Jim double-checked with the airline personnel at the gate, but nothing had changed. His name was the first one on the waiting list, but the flight was already overbooked. He turned away from the annoying man standing behind the counter and headed for the bank of phones by the gate, dialing a familiar number.
"Banks."
"Simon, it's Jim. I'm at the airport, but there aren't any seats available. I'm on stand-by, but it doesn't look good for me to get out of here tonight."
"I understand. Try to relax, Ellison. He's hanging on. Sandburg's a fighter. The doctor said he's showing rapid improvement. He's going to make it. He'll be here when you get here tomorrow."
"I want to believe that. I have to because I don't think I can do this without him, Sir."
Simon didn't like the hopeless tone he was hearing in his friend's voice. It didn't sound like the man he had worked with the last few years. "Jim? You need to hang on too."
"I'm trying. Look, the reason I called is because I have an idea. Do you have your tape recorder handy?"
"Hold on a minute. I'll get it."
Jim heard Simon put the phone down as he rifled through his desk drawers. He leaned his forehead against the cool wall separating the phones, resting his eyes and trying to keep a firm control over the dials.
"Got it, Jim...Jim, are you with me...Ellison!"
Jim jerked back to full awareness. His senses were giving him more trouble with each passing hour. "Sorry, Simon, got distracted for a minute. Hold it up to the earpiece and hit the record button. Chief, I'm here for ya, buddy. I'm having a little trouble getting a flight, but if I have to drive all night, I will see you tomorrow. Did anyone tell you that the Mariners won. That's twenty bucks you owe me plus dinner. I plan on collecting as soon as the doc releases you. So, you hang on." Jim swallowed hard, trying to keep his voice steady.
"I'm sorry I'm not there. God, why am I never there when you need me. You're always there when I need you. I'll get there as quickly as I can. I promise and you know I always keep my word. As soon as you're out of that hospital, how about we take a little vacation? Spring break is coming up for you and I have plenty of leave time built up. Our caseload will just have to wait. I'll even let you pick where we'll go. But no tests, I draw the line at doing any tests. So, you start planning. We'll talk when I get there. See you soon, Chief."
Jim paused, trying to regain his composure. "Simon, would you run by the hospital and play this for me?"
"Sure, Jim. I was planning on stopping by tonight to try to get Rafe to go home. He is feeling pretty guilty. Right now, he's behaving pretty much like you would in this situation. It's unnerving. If he was going to pick up some of your habits, why did it have to be that one?"
"Sorry, Simon," Jim chuckled. "This means the only people he is likely to listen to is Sandburg or maybe me. I'll deal with it when I get there."
"Right, but I'm the Captain, so I'm going to give a shot anyway. Let me know if you manage to get on the flight. I'll have a couple of uniforms pick you up at the gate. Your insurance rates don't need to get any higher."
"I'd tell you I resent the implication if it wasn't probably true. Thanks, Simon. One way or another, I'll be there soon."
Jim hung up the phone, sighing deeply. He jumped when a hand tapped his shoulder. He turned around to face an elderly lady. He noticed her sitting with a couple and two kids before he had made the call. He had seen a strong family resemblance between the young woman and the lady.
"Excuse me young man, but I couldn't help overhearing. Are you trying to get to Cascade?
"Yes Ma'am, my partner, my very best friend was seriously hurt and I'm trying to get to him."
"That's what I thought I heard. You come with me, young man and we'll get this all taken care of."
The lady took Jim by the arm and started pulling him back to the airline desk. She strode right up to the flight attendant who hadn't noticed their approach.
"Excuse me, but this young man has an emergency situation and must get to Cascade as soon as possible."
The flight attendant looked up with a haughty look on his face. "I'm sorry, but this flight is overbooked. There's another flight first thing in the morning."
"Well, good. You can just make me a reservation on that flight. This young... What is your name?"
"Detective Jim Ellison," Jim answered automatically.
"Detective Ellison will be using my ticket on tonight's flight. Do whatever it is you have to do on that little computer of yours to get the records straight."
"That's not possible, the security rules specifically state that..."
"I don't think you heard me. This is an emergency, rules can be bent."
"I can't do that. I don't have the authorization."
"Phooey, the problem with you young people today is none of you can take responsibility and make a decision." Jim looked around the gate area and noticed everyone's attention was focused on the conversation that was taking place. Most of the people seemed to be amused.
The pilot of the plane happened to overhear the conversation and came to support them. "Let them make the switch, Tom. I don't think this is a problem for the airline or for security. He is a police officer. I don't think either of them are likely to be terrorists."
The flight attendant thought about arguing, but one look at the three people standing across from him changed his mind. He brought up the next day's flight on his terminal. "How will you be paying for this, Ms. Hawkins?"
"Visa," Jim answered as he pulled out his wallet. He gave the credit card to the man along with his driver's license before turning to face the wonderful woman who just answered all his prayers.
"I can't thank you enough. You have no idea what this means to me, Ms. Hawkins."
"I think I do. I saw your badge. My husband was a patrol officer for thirty years before he died. Sometimes I think he had two wives, me and his partner. So, I know exactly how you're feeling. My son-in-law will just have to put up with me for another night. You need this ticket much more than I do." She reached up and gave him a quick hug and a peck on the cheek as they started boarding the flight. Jim returned both the hug and the kiss before heading for the jetway. He would call Simon during the flight. He was almost home.
A few hours later, Blair woke up in severe pain after yet another nightmare. His mind was so confused by the drugs, that he thought he was still being held hostage. He kept crying out for Jim to help him. Joel and Simon had come running in from the hallway after the first screams, followed by the nurse and an orderly.
The nurse had refused to call the doctor because he was with another patient and ordered the nearest orderly to get some restraints, which only resulted in Blair fighting harder. Simon put a stop to the restraint idea by physically intimidating the nurse out of the room. Rafe and Joel finally managed to convince Blair he was safe, but not why Jim wasn't there. Blair was convinced Jim was hurt and they wouldn't tell him.
When Simon re-entered the room, Blair was demanding to leave. Simon played his ace in the hole, literally. "Blair, listen to this. I just got off the phone with Jim. He's at the airport, just listen." Simon pressed the play button and smiled as Jim Ellison's voice filled the room and Blair automatically calmed.
The doctor finally appeared and injected a mild sedative into the IV. The doctor waited until Blair was sleeping deeply before asking the other men to leave the room so he could do an exam. When he exited the room, they were still gathered in the hallway.
"Gentlemen, this little outburst did not do any damage that I can determine. However, it would be best, if they could be prevented from occurring. Did I understand that Detective Ellison was on his way?"
"He is, he should be here in a few hours." Simon answered.
"Good, his appearance would be the best medicine for Mr. Sandburg right now."
Henri was surprised to see Jim Ellison exit the elevator. "Wow, you made good time. Did you use lights and sirens to get here."
"No, Simon sent a ride for me. I think he was afraid of my driving," Jim answered as they started down the hallway.
Henri laughed at that but stopped as he noticed the red-rimmed eyes and the large black circles under them. "You're looking rough, Bro. Have you slept at all the last few days."
Jim shook his head, "No, not much, a little on the plane. Where is he?"
The question was well-timed as they were standing in front of Blair's room. "Right here, Rafe's with him. Actually, I don't think Rafe's left the hospital the last three days. Jim, I know this isn't the best time to ask this but..."
Jim interrupted with a quick gesture. "I know what happened. I don't blame Rafe. I'll make sure he understands that after I've seen Blair."
Henri smiled. "Thanks, Bro. Now, go see to your partner. He's been pretty worried about you."
Jim opened the door to the room.
Rafe looked up as he heard the door to the room open. He flinched as Jim entered the room. His throat went dry as he tried to stammer out an apology for what he had allowed to happen to Blair. His mind just wouldn't connect with his mouth.
Jim nodded and smiled slightly as he moved to the opposite side of the bed from Rafe. Jim cautiously reached a hand to Blair's cheek, placing the back of his hand against the clammy skin. "I'm here, Chief. You're going to be all right."
Those softly spoken words were Rafe's undoing. Without saying a word, he moved towards the door.
"Rafe, wait!" Jim yelled, forgetting that his partner was sleeping. Rafe ignored the call and bolted out the door.
"Damn it," Jim muttered. He hadn't been expecting that. He started for the door, but a weak grip and a hoarse voice stopped him in his tracks.
Blair had only heard Jim yell, he didn't understand the circumstances. "Don't be mad. Wasn't his fault," Blair mumbled faintly. Jim turned back to ease his partner's concern. Deep blue eyes filled with pain were matching gazes with his.
"Easy, Blair. I'm not upset with Rafe, just worried about him. I needed to see you for myself before I talked with him. Wasn't expecting him to run out on me. I know he's been under a lot of stress and on a major guilt trip. I'll talk to him, set him straight."
"Good!" Blair let go, his arm dropping heavily on the bed, "Go, 'M fine."
"It's okay, Chief. There's no rush. Henri won't let him leave. He and I talked briefly on my way in here."
"'M sleepy, go find him now," Blair ordered stubbornly as his eyelids drooped.
Jim smiled fondly, tucking the arm back under the blanket. "I just got an idea, why don't you sleep while Rafe and I talk."
Blair opened up one eye and stared. Jim knew he would pay for that crack as soon as Blair felt better. "I'm going. I'm going," Jim stated as he headed for the door.
He stopped before entering the hallway. First, he had to determine where Rafe had gone. Secure in the presence of his guide, Jim intentionally opened up his hearing for the first time in over a week. Jim tracked the sound of Rafe and Henri's voices in the stairwell at the end of the hall. Opening the door, he was surprised to see Rafe sitting on the stairs. Henri was a few stairs further down, blocking the remainder of the stairs.
"I see you didn't have to use the handcuffs," Jim said lightly, trying to put both men at ease.
"Nah, wasn't necessary," Henri answered. Rafe didn't look up from his shoes.
"Henri, would you mind sitting with Blair? He's sleeping quietly, but I don't want him waking up alone. I think your partner and I need to have a little chat."
Henri suppressed a chuckle at the look of fear in Rafe's eyes at the idea of being left alone with Jim. He must have learned that begging look from Hairboy. "Sure, Jim, no problem. Make sure he eats something while you're at it."
Henri headed up the stairs to Blair's room. The other two men headed downstairs to the cafeteria.
Jim went through the line as Rafe found them a table. Jim wasn't sure now was the best time for this. It didn't appear that Rafe had been sleeping much more than he had. This was more Sandburg's area anyway. When he realized that the normally self-confidant detective still wouldn't look him in the eye, he had enough. He put a club sandwich and a tea down in front of the man. When Rafe started to push the food away, Jim started to talk.
"Not this time, Rafe. I'm gonna talk and you are going to listen while you eat that, clear?"
Rafe looked rebellious for a moment, then picked up the sandwich.
"Okay, let's start at the beginning. What happened to Blair was not your fault. The blame lies strictly with the man who pulled the trigger."
"He was in that bank because I needed cash."
"You were in that bank because I asked you all to keep an eye on him. So obviously it was my fault."
Rafe's mouth dropped open and he could only stare at the stupidity of that statement. Finally, he started to laugh. "Message received. I hope Sandburg feels the same way."
"He does. Who do you think sent me chasing after you at this hour of the night."
"Sandburg," Rafe answered.
"Rafe, do you have any idea why I asked everyone to keep an eye on Blair?"
Rafe shook his head.
"Okay, I'm going to give you the abridged version of life in the Sandburg zone. Do you know where Blair lived before he moved in with me. No? He lived next to a drug lab. He had no idea what was going on until someone blew the place up. He helps a next door neighbor move in, and in return, he's kidnapped a half dozen times by her and her friends. Three times they pointed guns at him, one of them pulled the trigger. The gun wasn't loaded, but Blair didn't know that. He tries to go to a movie and nearly hits a girl who runs out in front of him after an eight-year coma. Are you getting the picture here? Blair attracts trouble. You want to know what I think? Even if you hadn't gone to lunch with him that day, he probably would have wound up inside that bank without you. He often has lunch with Maggie. Need another example? Ask Joel about the time he had Blair in protective custody and Blair slipped away from him."
Rafe smiled at the first example, chuckled at the second. The longer Jim talked, the harder Rafe was laughing. Jim was happy to see it.
"It takes a village to raise a Sandburg, or an entire police unit. It is definitely not a one-man job. So do you understand now? Are we okay?" Jim asked, raising one eyebrow.
"Yeah, we're fine." Rafe answered when he could stop laughing.
"Good, cause I'm too tired to chase you down. I'm going back up to see Blair. I suggest you let Henri drive you home."
"Tell him I'll wait for him right here," Rafe replied.
"Okay, and Rafe? Thank you, for staying here with him and for getting him out of there in one piece. Now, don't argue, just nod your head and say you're welcome."
"You're welcome."
The next morning when Blair opened his eyes, he was happy to see Jim snoring in the chair next to his bed. The pain in his back was not as bad as yesterday. But, that didn't mean he wanted to move.
"Jim? Man, you should go stretch out on the couch in the waiting room," he whispered.
"Glad to see you awake, Chief. You had me really worried." Jim answered, sitting up in the chair, rubbing his eyes.
"I'm going to be fine. The pain sucks, but nothing permanent."
"The doctor said the pain should only last a few more days, as long as you behave yourself. They have already started reducing the level of painkillers."
"I plan on doing nothing but sleeping and planning the vacation you promised."
"What vacation?" Jim asked innocently.
"You can't deny it. Simon has it on tape." Blair was struggling to sit up, but didn't make it.
"Easy, buddy. I'm teasing. We have a couple of weeks before you are ready for a vacation. Your middle is being held together by a lot of sutures and stitches." Jim handed him the bed controls.
"I know. But I haven't had a real vacation in ages. I'm looking forward to it."
"Good. You sleep, Simon talked to the University. You've been released from your teaching responsibilities for the next six weeks."
"Oh, man. The Dragonlady's going to have me fired," Blair moaned.
"Nah, you're hot property right now. Simon and the Chief met with the board of directors of the University. They made it abundantly clear what the legal implications would be if Edwards gives you a hard time of this. It was a very publicized incident, Blair. They can't touch you over this one."
"Remind me to thank him later."
"I will. The doctor wants you to rest. I'll be back later, okay?"
"Fine, and Jim?"
"Yeah, Chief."
"You're always here when I need you. Don't ever doubt that again."
Jim smiled and left the room. All was as it should be. Now, he had to arrange to send a few dozen roses to a lovely woman named Idra Hawkins.
The End.