Well. I don't own Trauma Center. If I did… well, read on.
Haha it's some very short Markus/Valerie because eeee I love them.
Spoilers for the first chapter of New Blood, I guess.
/
Valerie watched as Markus used his Healing Touch -- that intense focus and his steady hands never seized to amaze her, even though she held a similar power.
It was over in a few seconds, and the patient's vitals stabilized, finally. Markus looked tired, but he shook it off and finished up. Elena smiled and congratulated both of them.
When the patient woke up, Markus smiled. Valerie gently touched his arm.
"You did great, Markus," She said so softly she wasn't sure if he had heard.
"Thanks," he said, just as quietly. "Valerie," He said as she turned to walk away.
"Hm?" She stopped and turned on her heel to face Markus again.
"Uh, do you want to… go have dinner with me? Er, my treat," he said, stumbling over words.
Markus stuttering? Valerie smiled. "I'd love to, thank you."
Markus had his hands shoved deep in the pockets of his coat, and Valerie walked in step with him. They didn't talk much, usually Elena was with them and initiating conversation.
Even with the silence, Valerie enjoyed just being with Markus. She was used to her busy schedule at Caduceus, seeing Markus all the time but rarely getting any real time with him.
The walk to the restaurant across the street was too long but too short all the same.
"For two, please. Yes, a booth would be fine." Markus said to the hostess, keeping his voice hushed.
Valerie and Markus sat on opposite sides of the table. There was barely anyone else at the restaurant, the only sound they heard was the air conditioning and the faint voices coming from the kitchen.
They ordered, and ate, all the while engaging in small talk.
"So," Markus said, when they were waiting on the bill. "I was thinking, about the operation today… I always wonder, what if I didn't have the Healing Touch? Would I still be able to save the patient? Or… would I be incapable?"
Sean Kim. Sean Kim was saved by Dr. Vaughn today. Valerie thought. Because of the Healing Touch? Or… because Markus is "an amazing doctor…" she mused. "Yes, Markus, I believe you would be able to, because you are, beyond a doubt, the greatest doctor I have ever witnessed. Ever."
Markus was used to compliments like that from Valerie, but she had never seemed so… aggressive delivering them before.
"Believe it Markus, because it's true, and you believe the truth," She said. Her gaze didn't drop from his eyes.
"Thank you… Val," He said, bowing his head, tearing himself away from her glare.
He left a tip on the table and stood up, Valerie following. He put her coat on for her, then shoved his hands back into his pockets, and stepped outside. He didn't start walking though, he just stood in the cold air, breathing it all in.
"Markus? You coming?" Valerie asked when she walked past his still figure. He took a step towards her so they were face to face and very close. "M-Markus…?"
He took one hand out of his jacket and gently ran his thumb over her temple. "Valerie. I think. I'm in love."
Feeling awkward as ever, Markus bent his head and pressed his lips tenderly to Valerie's. But at that instant, all his uneasiness melted away, and against his mouth, Valerie whispered.
I love you too.
It's true, and you believe the truth.