Telling The Truth
By Rebecca and Sarah
Summery: When Syd tries to help a young patient she discovers a secret.
A warm Friday morning at the Hansen house:
Dream Sequence:
Lynda: Syd darling wake up?
Syd groans and sits up.
Syd: (rubbing her eyes) What?
Lynda: (Sits down on the edge of Syd's bed) Syd tell me honestly, have you really considered what you're doing to the family by staying at the clinic for all hours?
Syd sighs.
Syd: Mom I don't stay at the clinic all the time. I had to that one time to help a patient.
Syd lies back down.
Syd: Now can you leave me alone so that I can go to sleep.
Lynda gets up.
Lynda: Suit yourself dear but don't come crawling back to me when the family leaves you out of the loop.
Lynda waves and disappears.
Syd awakes with a start and groans. She gets up and hops in the shower. After dressing Syd goes into the house to find Jim in the kitchen fixing breakfast.
Syd: Morning Dad!
Jim looks up.
Jim: Morning sweetie. You sure got home late last night.
Syd puts her coat and bag on the table.
Syd: Yeah, I had some paper work to do and I had a patient who needed me. I'm sorry I didn't call but there was no time, I had to stay with the patient until the ambulance arrived.
Jim: (sits down at the bar) Who was the patient?
Syd pours herself a cup of coffee.
Syd: A guy named Lewis Baker. He has lung cancer and complained of not being able to breathe.
Jim: I'm sorry Syd.
Syd: Thanks.
Then Joanie comes into the kitchen with Hannah in her arms.
Joanie: Well look what the cat dragged in. Where were you all night?
Joanie puts Hannah in her high chair.
Syd: I was at the clinic.
Joanie: You've been spending a lot of time there lately.
Syd grabs her coat and bag.
Syd: I have to go. Bye.
Joanie: See you at dinner?
Syd: (opens the door) I'll try.
Syd walks out the door, closing it behind her.
Joanie: Is it me or does Syd have the most stressful life of anyone you've ever met?
Jim: Hopefully it'll get a little less crazy.
Joanie: Yeah, and Hannah will learn to read at age three.
Jim laughs and continues to eat his breakfast.
At St. Claire's:
Syd walks into the clinic to find Izzy at the front desk.
Syd: Morning Izzy, any messages?
Izzy: Nope but you have a patient in room 2 waiting to see you.
Izzy hands Syd the chart.
Syd: (taking the chart from Izzy) Thanks, I'll be there in a sec.
Syd walks back to the office to put her stuff away. She grabs the chart and heads for room 2. Syd throws open the curtain to find a girl about 12 on the exam table.
Syd: (walking into the room) Hi, I'm Dr. Hansen and you must be Christy?
Christy nods.
Syd notices another girl, about sixteen standing beside the bed.
Syd: (referring to the sixteen year old) Is this your sister Christy?
Christy nods.
Christy: Her name is Casey.
Casey: I can tell her myself thank you.
Syd: OK, I think I get the picture. What can I do for you?
Casey: Her stomach has been acting up lately and I was wondering if you could give her something.
Syd: I think we can arrange that but I would need consent from your parents to examine her. I noticed you don't have an address or phone number listed. Do you have someone I can call?
Casey: Both of my parents are out of town; they won't be back until next week.
Syd: Whose staying with you while you're gone?
Casey: We're staying alone but our neighbor is keeping an eye on us. Can't you just give her something? She's been vomiting like crazy.
Syd: I can't until I speak with someone in charge. Do you know your neighbor's number?
Casey sighs and pulls Christy off the table.
Casey: You know what just forget it OK.
Casey heads for the front.
Syd: Casey wait. Why don't I just examine her and we'll go from there.
Casey sighs and takes Christy back to the room.
Christy: Is it gonna hurt?
Syd: (taking out her stethoscope) I promise I won't hurt you.
At the Barkery:
Joanie is putting freshly baked cookies in a jar when Burt walks in.
Burt: Hi sunshine!
Joanie looks up and smiles.
Joanie: HI. What brings you to my part of the town?
Burt: I was able to wrangle a twenty-minute break. What do you say we have dinner tonight, just the two of us?
Joanie: I would love to but I'm having trouble finding Hannah a babysitter, since Syd is staying at the clinic twenty-four hours a day and my dad has a zoo board meeting.
Burt: What about Robbie?
Joanie: Well I could ask him. I'll ask him and I'll call you OK?
Burt kisses Joanie on the cheek.
Burt: Sounds good.
Joanie smiles.
Joanie: Great!
At St. Claire's:
Syd: OK Christy you're ready to go. Have your mom call me when she gests back if she has any questions.
Christy smiles.
Christy: Thanks Dr. Hansen.
Casey and Christy leave the clinic and Syd sighs, wondering if there's something more going on.
Set: Hansen House
Syd walks into the kitchen, and finds her father sitting at the table
Syd: Hey dad, what are you doing?
Jim: Oh, just thinking. What are you doing?
Syd: Lunch break. Thought I'd come home for a few, for a change.
Jim: Oh. So, how was your day so far?
Syd: Weird.
Jim: (laughs) a typical day basically?
Syd: Basically. (Sighs and sits down at the table) but there were these two
kids that came in today, one was 12 and the other 16. The 12 year old was
having stomach problems.
Jim: (nods) nothing too unusual yet.
Syd: Well, it wasn't really unusual. Something about the whole thing just
made me a little suspicious.
Jim: What was that?
Syd: Well, the 16 year old was the other's sister, and she wanted me to give
her something to settle her stomach. I said I couldn't until I had adult
confirmation that it was all right to give her something. Their parents were
out of town.
Jim: Syd, I don't mean to break in, but there's nothing weird about what
you're telling me. It's probably just a little girl with the stomach flu or
something.
Syd: (sighs) I know dad. There's just something that bothers me about all of
this.
Jim: (stands up, and pats his daughter's hand) I'm sure it'll all make sense
sooner or later. I'm always here, you know.
Syd: (nods) I know. Thanks dad.
Jim: You're welcome.
EXIT SCENE
SET: O'NEILS
Joanie walks in, and goes up to Robbie.
Joanie: You are baby-sitting Hannah tonight whether you want to or not.
Robbie (looking surprised) I am? But... I have a date with Tina tonight!
Joanie: Yeah, well good for you, but I have a date with Burt. You can go out
with Tina any time, but I rarely get to spend any time with Burt without him
being called away to put out a fire.
Robbie: (smirking) Oh, how very rude of them, setting fires on your dates.
Joanie: (angry. Reaches across the counter, grabs his tie, and pulls him
closer to her) OK, little man, listen to me now. You are watching Hannah
tonight, and if you don't I will (loud voice) KILL YOU!!!!!!
Joanie storms out. Robbie looks around at the startled customers.
Robbie: My sister's going through mid-life crisis.
EXIT SCENE
At The Hansen House:
Syd is in the kitchen getting ready to head back to the clinic. When Syd reaches the clinic she finds Izzy at the front desk.
Syd: Hey Izzy, did I get any calls?
Izzy: Nope.
Syd sighs.
Izzy: Were you expecting a call?
Syd: Well I was hoping those kids would call again. I hope Christy is doing OK?
Then the door opens and Casey walks in.
Casey: Dr. Hansen?
Syd looks up.
Syd: Casey is something wrong? Where's Christy?
Casey: Outside, she's in a lot of pain.
Syd follows Casey outside and finds Christy on the curb crying.
Christy: Dr. Hansen it hurts.
Syd kneels down to Christy's level.
Syd: I know sweetie. Can you stand if we help you?
Christy nods and leans onto Syd and Casey. They help her inside.
Syd: OK sweetie lie down for me and we're going to see what the problem is here OK.
Syd presses on Christy's stomach.
Christy: OW!!
Syd: Sorry sweetie. You have what is known as appendicitis and you need surgery right away.
Christy looks at Syd with frightened eyes.
Christy: Is it gonna hurt?
Syd: (rubbing her forehead in a comforting gesture.) No, you'll be asleep the whole time.
Casey: How soon does she have to have the surgery?
Syd: As soon as possible. I'm going to call an ambulance to transport her to the hospital.
Casey: Will you be doing the surgery?
Syd: I'll see if I can. I'll be right back.
Syd walks out of the room and toward the front desk where Izzy is talking on the phone.
Syd: Izzy call an ambulance right away, we need to get Christy to the hospital.
Izzy nods and picks up the phone again.
At the hospital:
Syd wheels Christy to the surgical floor with Casey following.
Syd: I've contacted Dr. Talbert, who's going to help me with the surgery.
Casey: How long will she have to stay in the hospital?
Syd wheels Christy into a room.
Syd: For a few days, I think it would be best if you contacted your parents and let them know what's going on.
Casey: I tried but I couldn't get in touch with them.
Syd: Well you can try again in a few hours. I would really to speak with them. Is there anyone else you can think of to call?
Casey nods.
Casey: No.
Syd nods and turns back to the chart. She senses that there is something the girls aren't telling her.
Syd: Well I'm going to go scrub in and we'll get this show on the road. A nurse is going to give you something to help you sleep Christy.
Christy nods.
Christy: I'm scared Dr. Hansen.
Syd sits down in a chair beside Christy's bed.
Syd: I know you are but don't be. You'll be asleep the whole time and when you wake up your parents should be here.
Christy nods but doesn't say anything. She gives Casey a look and Casey tells her to hush.
Syd leaves the room to scrub for surgery still wondering if there is something going on between Casey and Christy.
Dr. Talbert: Dr. Hansen, I hear you're going to assist me?
Syd: If it is possible, yes.
Dr. Talbert: Of course, I'm going to scrub in now.
Syd and Dr. Talbert go into the OR to scrub for surgery.
At the Hansen house:
Joanie is home early from The Barkery and is in the kitchen trying to feed Hannah a snack.
Joanie: Hannah do you want a snack?
Hannah shakes her head.
Hannah: No snack.
Joanie: OK Miss Hannah it's naptime.
Hannah squirms in Joanie's arms.
Hannah: No nap.
Joanie: Yes nap.
Joanie carries Hannah upstairs and puts her in her crib.
Joanie: Good night Hannah.
Joanie closes the door and sighs, looking forward to the night ahead with Burt.
Then Jim comes out of his room.
Jim: Joanie, what are you doing home?
Joanie: Business was slow and Hannah needed a nap so I just came on home. Is the clinic slow today?
Jim: Sort of, not many patients. I sent Heather home already. Do you have plans tonight?
Joanie: I'm going out with Burt. I'm getting Robbie to watch Hannah.
Jim: I could do it but I've got a zoo board meeting tonight.
Joanie: Robbie can do it. I've already asked him.
Joanie headed for the stairs and went into the kitchen. She wiped off Hannah's high chair.
Jim: Joanie is everything OK. You seem a little distracted.
Joanie smiles.
Joanie: I'm fine. I just need some time out with Burt. I'm working 80 hours a week and I've got Hannah to take care of.
Jim: Sweetie if you ever need any help...
Jim is cut off.
Joanie: I'm fine Dad, I don't need any help, I just need some time alone with my boyfriend.
Joanie walks into the living room without another word.
At the Hospital:
Syd sits by Christy's bed waiting for her to wake up. Then Casey enters the room.
Casey: How did she do?
Syd: She did well. Have you gotten in touch with your parents yet?
Casey: (nods) No.
Syd: (in a stern voice) I really need to speak with them.
Casey: I know I'll try to get a hold of them soon.
Syd: OK.
Then Christy starts to stir.
Christy: Casey?
Casey goes over to her sister's bedside.
Casey: I'm right here. Dr. Hansen said you did very well.
Christy nods and falls asleep again.
LATER THAT NIGHT
Joanie at the house, getting ready for her date with Burt:
Phone rings.
Joanie: (picks up the phone) Hello? Oh, Burt! Hi! (Pauses for a moment) Oh.
(sounding hollow) No that's okay. No, I understand really. Ok. Bye.
Puts down the phone
Joanie: argh!!!!
Storms down stairs to the kitchen where Robbie is feeding Hannah.
Joanie: Give me that! (snatches the spoon of peas away.
Robbie: Whia. You're awfully defensive. I figured you'd be happy to go on
your (clears his throat) little date with Burt.
Joanie: You know what Robbie? Shut Up!
Hannah: (in three year old slur) Yeah, Robbie. Shut up!
Robbie: (puts up his hands in defeat) Ok, sorry I asked, jeez. Well, I guess
I'll be off to bed, since I no longer have anything to do tonight because I
cancelled with Tina for no reason. (raises his eyebrows at Joanie)
Joanie: (sighs) Robbie, just get to bed, and take some very very strong
sleeping pills before I get mad.
Robbie: (snickering) BEFORE you get mad?
Joanie: (throws peas at him) GO TO BED!
Hannah: GO TO BED!
Robbie runs up the stairs before Joanie has a chance to do any damage.
NEXT MORNING
Set: HOSPITAL
Syd: Hey, morning Christy. How're you feeling?
Christy sitting up in bed, eating breakfast
Christy: Doin' Goom Daor Hansen.
Syd: What?
Christy: (swallows) Doing good, Dr. Hansen.
Syd: (laughs) Ok, that's good, because we're going to be releasing you
today.
Casey wakes up to hear the last sentence.
Casey: What? Today? Home?
Syd: (nodding slowly as she reads over Christy's files) Yep. The operation
went good yesterday, and this is unusual to let you out so early, but you're
doing fine. I am going to need your phone number, though.
Casey and Christy exchange nervous glances behind Syd's back
Casey: Um, sure. Okay.
Syd takes out a pad and pen and slides it over to her.
Casey writes something down on the paper.
Syd: Ok, great. Let me just get a wheelchair and you'll be free to go.
AT THE HANSENS
Set: Veterinary clinic
A lady with a small cage walks in.
Heather: (Looks up) Hi. May I help you?
Lady: Ja. Meine ratte, Scruffy, fuhlen gut nicht.
Heather: (Looking confused) pardon me?
Lady: (sighs, and shakes her head. In German accent) What's the matter?
don't understand German?
Heather: (stiffling a laugh) I'm sorry.
lady: (shruggs her shoulders.) eh. (Lifts her cage onto the counter.) My
rat, Scruffy, isn't feeling well.
Jim walks in at that moment.
Jim: Oh, hello. What seems to be the problem?
Lady. Meine ratte, Scruffy, fuhlen gut nicht.
Jim: (raises an amused eyebrow) ah. I see. Well Mrs...
Lady: Schneider
Jim: Mrs. Schneider, we'll get Scruffy back to you as soon as possible.
Mrs. Schneider: Danke sehr.
Jim: You're welcome.
Heather: (looks at Jim, amazed) Dr. Hansen, you understand German?
Jim: (laughs) only the rat and scruffy parts. I didn't follow the rest.
Heather laughs as well.
At The Hospital:
Syd is in Christy's room helping her get dressed. Casey is packing her overnight bag.
Syd: Are you two going to be OK alone?
Casey: We'll be fine Dr. Hansen thanks again.
Syd smiles.
Syd: You're welcome. Why don't I drop you off at home?
Casey: That's OK, I drove here.
Syd: Well OK, call me if you need anything, you have both my numbers.
Christy walks toward the door with her sister.
Christy: Thanks Dr. Hansen.
Syd: (smiling) You're welcome.
Syd walks out with the girls and watches as they drive away.
At The Barkery:
Joanie is filling jars with dog food when Burt walks through the door.
Burt: Hey sunshine.
Joanie looks up but doesn't smile.
Joanie: Hi Burt, I'm surprised to see you here.
Bur: (: noticing Joanie's change in mood) Is there something I should know about?
Joanie: No its just every time I try to go out on a date with my boyfriend, there's always a fire or something that comes up.
Burt: Joanie I said I was sorry. How about we spend a romantic weekend at my place tonight. I promise I won't answer to a fire.
Joanie smiles.
Joanie: OK but no more fires.
Burt: Promise.
They kiss and Burt turns to leave.
At The Hansen house:
Syd comes through the back door to find Jim in the kitchen.
Jim: Well this is a nice surprise, what have you been up to?
Syd puts her stuff on the table.
Syd: I was at the hospital all night with a patient. I just sent her home.
Jim: That was fast.
Syd: Yeah but she was doing very well.
Jim: Is this the same girl you were talking about the other day?
Syd: Yes, I just can't put my finger on it but I know something is going on.
Jim: I think you just have to wait and see what happens, home for breakfast?
Syd: I just came by to shower and change before I head to the clinic.
Syd gets up and heads to the guesthouse to change.
Dream sequence:
Lynda appears beside Syd, as she's getting ready for her shower.
Lynda: I told you dear, they depend on you.
Syd turns to face her mother.
Syd: Mom I'm fine. I don't have to stay tonight.
Lynda: OK dear but remember what comes first.
Lynda disappears before Syd has time to protest.
Syd goes to the clinic with a puzzled expression on her face. She walks into the clinic to find it practically empty.
Izzy: Morning Dr. Hansen.
Syd: Morning. Where is everyone?
Izzy: I don't know, there hasn't been a patient all morning.
Syd heads for the office wondering why the clinic is so empty. She puts her stuff away and decides to catch up on some over due paperwork. As Syd is sitting down to her desk there is a knock at the door.
Person: Dr. Hansen?
Syd looks up to see a lady with blond hair standing in the doorway.
Syd: Yes, can I help you?
Lady: I'm with the department of social services, Blaire Mitchell.
Syd gives her a questioning look.
Syd: I didn't call for anyone in that area.
Blaire: I understand you've been taking care of two girls named Casey and Christy?
Syd: Yes, what about them.
Blaire: There was a call in this morning about two missing kids. They've been missing for about a month now and the police have been unable to track them down. They're from Connecticut.
Syd: Their parents are out of town.
Blaire: I know these kids; I put them with foster parents about four months ago.
Syd stands up.
Syd: I don't understand, what does this have to do with Casey and Christy?
Blaire: Dr. Hansen Casey's parents aren't out of town, they died six months ago in a plane crash.
Set: Saint Clare's
Syd enters set.
Syd: Hey Izzy. Who do I got today?
Izzy: (hesitant) well actually, Christy and Casey are here to see you for a
follow-up.
Syd: (looking blank) Yeah sure. Ok, thanks.
Syd goes to the room where Christy and Casey are waiting.
Christy: Hi, Dr. Hansen! Back here for my check up, right on time!
Syd nods grimly, and turns to look at her paperwork.
Christy stands up, and moves closer to Syd
Christy: (looking confused) Dr. Hansen? Did I do something wrong?
Syd: (turns quickly) Oh, no Christy, you didn't do anything wrong. But there
is something I'd like to talk to you about.
Casey stands up and moves next to her little sister, looking nervous.
Casey: What's that?
Syd: Why didn't you tell me your parents are dead?
To Be Continued. Look for Part 2 coming soon!
By Rebecca and Sarah
Summery: When Syd tries to help a young patient she discovers a secret.
A warm Friday morning at the Hansen house:
Dream Sequence:
Lynda: Syd darling wake up?
Syd groans and sits up.
Syd: (rubbing her eyes) What?
Lynda: (Sits down on the edge of Syd's bed) Syd tell me honestly, have you really considered what you're doing to the family by staying at the clinic for all hours?
Syd sighs.
Syd: Mom I don't stay at the clinic all the time. I had to that one time to help a patient.
Syd lies back down.
Syd: Now can you leave me alone so that I can go to sleep.
Lynda gets up.
Lynda: Suit yourself dear but don't come crawling back to me when the family leaves you out of the loop.
Lynda waves and disappears.
Syd awakes with a start and groans. She gets up and hops in the shower. After dressing Syd goes into the house to find Jim in the kitchen fixing breakfast.
Syd: Morning Dad!
Jim looks up.
Jim: Morning sweetie. You sure got home late last night.
Syd puts her coat and bag on the table.
Syd: Yeah, I had some paper work to do and I had a patient who needed me. I'm sorry I didn't call but there was no time, I had to stay with the patient until the ambulance arrived.
Jim: (sits down at the bar) Who was the patient?
Syd pours herself a cup of coffee.
Syd: A guy named Lewis Baker. He has lung cancer and complained of not being able to breathe.
Jim: I'm sorry Syd.
Syd: Thanks.
Then Joanie comes into the kitchen with Hannah in her arms.
Joanie: Well look what the cat dragged in. Where were you all night?
Joanie puts Hannah in her high chair.
Syd: I was at the clinic.
Joanie: You've been spending a lot of time there lately.
Syd grabs her coat and bag.
Syd: I have to go. Bye.
Joanie: See you at dinner?
Syd: (opens the door) I'll try.
Syd walks out the door, closing it behind her.
Joanie: Is it me or does Syd have the most stressful life of anyone you've ever met?
Jim: Hopefully it'll get a little less crazy.
Joanie: Yeah, and Hannah will learn to read at age three.
Jim laughs and continues to eat his breakfast.
At St. Claire's:
Syd walks into the clinic to find Izzy at the front desk.
Syd: Morning Izzy, any messages?
Izzy: Nope but you have a patient in room 2 waiting to see you.
Izzy hands Syd the chart.
Syd: (taking the chart from Izzy) Thanks, I'll be there in a sec.
Syd walks back to the office to put her stuff away. She grabs the chart and heads for room 2. Syd throws open the curtain to find a girl about 12 on the exam table.
Syd: (walking into the room) Hi, I'm Dr. Hansen and you must be Christy?
Christy nods.
Syd notices another girl, about sixteen standing beside the bed.
Syd: (referring to the sixteen year old) Is this your sister Christy?
Christy nods.
Christy: Her name is Casey.
Casey: I can tell her myself thank you.
Syd: OK, I think I get the picture. What can I do for you?
Casey: Her stomach has been acting up lately and I was wondering if you could give her something.
Syd: I think we can arrange that but I would need consent from your parents to examine her. I noticed you don't have an address or phone number listed. Do you have someone I can call?
Casey: Both of my parents are out of town; they won't be back until next week.
Syd: Whose staying with you while you're gone?
Casey: We're staying alone but our neighbor is keeping an eye on us. Can't you just give her something? She's been vomiting like crazy.
Syd: I can't until I speak with someone in charge. Do you know your neighbor's number?
Casey sighs and pulls Christy off the table.
Casey: You know what just forget it OK.
Casey heads for the front.
Syd: Casey wait. Why don't I just examine her and we'll go from there.
Casey sighs and takes Christy back to the room.
Christy: Is it gonna hurt?
Syd: (taking out her stethoscope) I promise I won't hurt you.
At the Barkery:
Joanie is putting freshly baked cookies in a jar when Burt walks in.
Burt: Hi sunshine!
Joanie looks up and smiles.
Joanie: HI. What brings you to my part of the town?
Burt: I was able to wrangle a twenty-minute break. What do you say we have dinner tonight, just the two of us?
Joanie: I would love to but I'm having trouble finding Hannah a babysitter, since Syd is staying at the clinic twenty-four hours a day and my dad has a zoo board meeting.
Burt: What about Robbie?
Joanie: Well I could ask him. I'll ask him and I'll call you OK?
Burt kisses Joanie on the cheek.
Burt: Sounds good.
Joanie smiles.
Joanie: Great!
At St. Claire's:
Syd: OK Christy you're ready to go. Have your mom call me when she gests back if she has any questions.
Christy smiles.
Christy: Thanks Dr. Hansen.
Casey and Christy leave the clinic and Syd sighs, wondering if there's something more going on.
Set: Hansen House
Syd walks into the kitchen, and finds her father sitting at the table
Syd: Hey dad, what are you doing?
Jim: Oh, just thinking. What are you doing?
Syd: Lunch break. Thought I'd come home for a few, for a change.
Jim: Oh. So, how was your day so far?
Syd: Weird.
Jim: (laughs) a typical day basically?
Syd: Basically. (Sighs and sits down at the table) but there were these two
kids that came in today, one was 12 and the other 16. The 12 year old was
having stomach problems.
Jim: (nods) nothing too unusual yet.
Syd: Well, it wasn't really unusual. Something about the whole thing just
made me a little suspicious.
Jim: What was that?
Syd: Well, the 16 year old was the other's sister, and she wanted me to give
her something to settle her stomach. I said I couldn't until I had adult
confirmation that it was all right to give her something. Their parents were
out of town.
Jim: Syd, I don't mean to break in, but there's nothing weird about what
you're telling me. It's probably just a little girl with the stomach flu or
something.
Syd: (sighs) I know dad. There's just something that bothers me about all of
this.
Jim: (stands up, and pats his daughter's hand) I'm sure it'll all make sense
sooner or later. I'm always here, you know.
Syd: (nods) I know. Thanks dad.
Jim: You're welcome.
EXIT SCENE
SET: O'NEILS
Joanie walks in, and goes up to Robbie.
Joanie: You are baby-sitting Hannah tonight whether you want to or not.
Robbie (looking surprised) I am? But... I have a date with Tina tonight!
Joanie: Yeah, well good for you, but I have a date with Burt. You can go out
with Tina any time, but I rarely get to spend any time with Burt without him
being called away to put out a fire.
Robbie: (smirking) Oh, how very rude of them, setting fires on your dates.
Joanie: (angry. Reaches across the counter, grabs his tie, and pulls him
closer to her) OK, little man, listen to me now. You are watching Hannah
tonight, and if you don't I will (loud voice) KILL YOU!!!!!!
Joanie storms out. Robbie looks around at the startled customers.
Robbie: My sister's going through mid-life crisis.
EXIT SCENE
At The Hansen House:
Syd is in the kitchen getting ready to head back to the clinic. When Syd reaches the clinic she finds Izzy at the front desk.
Syd: Hey Izzy, did I get any calls?
Izzy: Nope.
Syd sighs.
Izzy: Were you expecting a call?
Syd: Well I was hoping those kids would call again. I hope Christy is doing OK?
Then the door opens and Casey walks in.
Casey: Dr. Hansen?
Syd looks up.
Syd: Casey is something wrong? Where's Christy?
Casey: Outside, she's in a lot of pain.
Syd follows Casey outside and finds Christy on the curb crying.
Christy: Dr. Hansen it hurts.
Syd kneels down to Christy's level.
Syd: I know sweetie. Can you stand if we help you?
Christy nods and leans onto Syd and Casey. They help her inside.
Syd: OK sweetie lie down for me and we're going to see what the problem is here OK.
Syd presses on Christy's stomach.
Christy: OW!!
Syd: Sorry sweetie. You have what is known as appendicitis and you need surgery right away.
Christy looks at Syd with frightened eyes.
Christy: Is it gonna hurt?
Syd: (rubbing her forehead in a comforting gesture.) No, you'll be asleep the whole time.
Casey: How soon does she have to have the surgery?
Syd: As soon as possible. I'm going to call an ambulance to transport her to the hospital.
Casey: Will you be doing the surgery?
Syd: I'll see if I can. I'll be right back.
Syd walks out of the room and toward the front desk where Izzy is talking on the phone.
Syd: Izzy call an ambulance right away, we need to get Christy to the hospital.
Izzy nods and picks up the phone again.
At the hospital:
Syd wheels Christy to the surgical floor with Casey following.
Syd: I've contacted Dr. Talbert, who's going to help me with the surgery.
Casey: How long will she have to stay in the hospital?
Syd wheels Christy into a room.
Syd: For a few days, I think it would be best if you contacted your parents and let them know what's going on.
Casey: I tried but I couldn't get in touch with them.
Syd: Well you can try again in a few hours. I would really to speak with them. Is there anyone else you can think of to call?
Casey nods.
Casey: No.
Syd nods and turns back to the chart. She senses that there is something the girls aren't telling her.
Syd: Well I'm going to go scrub in and we'll get this show on the road. A nurse is going to give you something to help you sleep Christy.
Christy nods.
Christy: I'm scared Dr. Hansen.
Syd sits down in a chair beside Christy's bed.
Syd: I know you are but don't be. You'll be asleep the whole time and when you wake up your parents should be here.
Christy nods but doesn't say anything. She gives Casey a look and Casey tells her to hush.
Syd leaves the room to scrub for surgery still wondering if there is something going on between Casey and Christy.
Dr. Talbert: Dr. Hansen, I hear you're going to assist me?
Syd: If it is possible, yes.
Dr. Talbert: Of course, I'm going to scrub in now.
Syd and Dr. Talbert go into the OR to scrub for surgery.
At the Hansen house:
Joanie is home early from The Barkery and is in the kitchen trying to feed Hannah a snack.
Joanie: Hannah do you want a snack?
Hannah shakes her head.
Hannah: No snack.
Joanie: OK Miss Hannah it's naptime.
Hannah squirms in Joanie's arms.
Hannah: No nap.
Joanie: Yes nap.
Joanie carries Hannah upstairs and puts her in her crib.
Joanie: Good night Hannah.
Joanie closes the door and sighs, looking forward to the night ahead with Burt.
Then Jim comes out of his room.
Jim: Joanie, what are you doing home?
Joanie: Business was slow and Hannah needed a nap so I just came on home. Is the clinic slow today?
Jim: Sort of, not many patients. I sent Heather home already. Do you have plans tonight?
Joanie: I'm going out with Burt. I'm getting Robbie to watch Hannah.
Jim: I could do it but I've got a zoo board meeting tonight.
Joanie: Robbie can do it. I've already asked him.
Joanie headed for the stairs and went into the kitchen. She wiped off Hannah's high chair.
Jim: Joanie is everything OK. You seem a little distracted.
Joanie smiles.
Joanie: I'm fine. I just need some time out with Burt. I'm working 80 hours a week and I've got Hannah to take care of.
Jim: Sweetie if you ever need any help...
Jim is cut off.
Joanie: I'm fine Dad, I don't need any help, I just need some time alone with my boyfriend.
Joanie walks into the living room without another word.
At the Hospital:
Syd sits by Christy's bed waiting for her to wake up. Then Casey enters the room.
Casey: How did she do?
Syd: She did well. Have you gotten in touch with your parents yet?
Casey: (nods) No.
Syd: (in a stern voice) I really need to speak with them.
Casey: I know I'll try to get a hold of them soon.
Syd: OK.
Then Christy starts to stir.
Christy: Casey?
Casey goes over to her sister's bedside.
Casey: I'm right here. Dr. Hansen said you did very well.
Christy nods and falls asleep again.
LATER THAT NIGHT
Joanie at the house, getting ready for her date with Burt:
Phone rings.
Joanie: (picks up the phone) Hello? Oh, Burt! Hi! (Pauses for a moment) Oh.
(sounding hollow) No that's okay. No, I understand really. Ok. Bye.
Puts down the phone
Joanie: argh!!!!
Storms down stairs to the kitchen where Robbie is feeding Hannah.
Joanie: Give me that! (snatches the spoon of peas away.
Robbie: Whia. You're awfully defensive. I figured you'd be happy to go on
your (clears his throat) little date with Burt.
Joanie: You know what Robbie? Shut Up!
Hannah: (in three year old slur) Yeah, Robbie. Shut up!
Robbie: (puts up his hands in defeat) Ok, sorry I asked, jeez. Well, I guess
I'll be off to bed, since I no longer have anything to do tonight because I
cancelled with Tina for no reason. (raises his eyebrows at Joanie)
Joanie: (sighs) Robbie, just get to bed, and take some very very strong
sleeping pills before I get mad.
Robbie: (snickering) BEFORE you get mad?
Joanie: (throws peas at him) GO TO BED!
Hannah: GO TO BED!
Robbie runs up the stairs before Joanie has a chance to do any damage.
NEXT MORNING
Set: HOSPITAL
Syd: Hey, morning Christy. How're you feeling?
Christy sitting up in bed, eating breakfast
Christy: Doin' Goom Daor Hansen.
Syd: What?
Christy: (swallows) Doing good, Dr. Hansen.
Syd: (laughs) Ok, that's good, because we're going to be releasing you
today.
Casey wakes up to hear the last sentence.
Casey: What? Today? Home?
Syd: (nodding slowly as she reads over Christy's files) Yep. The operation
went good yesterday, and this is unusual to let you out so early, but you're
doing fine. I am going to need your phone number, though.
Casey and Christy exchange nervous glances behind Syd's back
Casey: Um, sure. Okay.
Syd takes out a pad and pen and slides it over to her.
Casey writes something down on the paper.
Syd: Ok, great. Let me just get a wheelchair and you'll be free to go.
AT THE HANSENS
Set: Veterinary clinic
A lady with a small cage walks in.
Heather: (Looks up) Hi. May I help you?
Lady: Ja. Meine ratte, Scruffy, fuhlen gut nicht.
Heather: (Looking confused) pardon me?
Lady: (sighs, and shakes her head. In German accent) What's the matter?
don't understand German?
Heather: (stiffling a laugh) I'm sorry.
lady: (shruggs her shoulders.) eh. (Lifts her cage onto the counter.) My
rat, Scruffy, isn't feeling well.
Jim walks in at that moment.
Jim: Oh, hello. What seems to be the problem?
Lady. Meine ratte, Scruffy, fuhlen gut nicht.
Jim: (raises an amused eyebrow) ah. I see. Well Mrs...
Lady: Schneider
Jim: Mrs. Schneider, we'll get Scruffy back to you as soon as possible.
Mrs. Schneider: Danke sehr.
Jim: You're welcome.
Heather: (looks at Jim, amazed) Dr. Hansen, you understand German?
Jim: (laughs) only the rat and scruffy parts. I didn't follow the rest.
Heather laughs as well.
At The Hospital:
Syd is in Christy's room helping her get dressed. Casey is packing her overnight bag.
Syd: Are you two going to be OK alone?
Casey: We'll be fine Dr. Hansen thanks again.
Syd smiles.
Syd: You're welcome. Why don't I drop you off at home?
Casey: That's OK, I drove here.
Syd: Well OK, call me if you need anything, you have both my numbers.
Christy walks toward the door with her sister.
Christy: Thanks Dr. Hansen.
Syd: (smiling) You're welcome.
Syd walks out with the girls and watches as they drive away.
At The Barkery:
Joanie is filling jars with dog food when Burt walks through the door.
Burt: Hey sunshine.
Joanie looks up but doesn't smile.
Joanie: Hi Burt, I'm surprised to see you here.
Bur: (: noticing Joanie's change in mood) Is there something I should know about?
Joanie: No its just every time I try to go out on a date with my boyfriend, there's always a fire or something that comes up.
Burt: Joanie I said I was sorry. How about we spend a romantic weekend at my place tonight. I promise I won't answer to a fire.
Joanie smiles.
Joanie: OK but no more fires.
Burt: Promise.
They kiss and Burt turns to leave.
At The Hansen house:
Syd comes through the back door to find Jim in the kitchen.
Jim: Well this is a nice surprise, what have you been up to?
Syd puts her stuff on the table.
Syd: I was at the hospital all night with a patient. I just sent her home.
Jim: That was fast.
Syd: Yeah but she was doing very well.
Jim: Is this the same girl you were talking about the other day?
Syd: Yes, I just can't put my finger on it but I know something is going on.
Jim: I think you just have to wait and see what happens, home for breakfast?
Syd: I just came by to shower and change before I head to the clinic.
Syd gets up and heads to the guesthouse to change.
Dream sequence:
Lynda appears beside Syd, as she's getting ready for her shower.
Lynda: I told you dear, they depend on you.
Syd turns to face her mother.
Syd: Mom I'm fine. I don't have to stay tonight.
Lynda: OK dear but remember what comes first.
Lynda disappears before Syd has time to protest.
Syd goes to the clinic with a puzzled expression on her face. She walks into the clinic to find it practically empty.
Izzy: Morning Dr. Hansen.
Syd: Morning. Where is everyone?
Izzy: I don't know, there hasn't been a patient all morning.
Syd heads for the office wondering why the clinic is so empty. She puts her stuff away and decides to catch up on some over due paperwork. As Syd is sitting down to her desk there is a knock at the door.
Person: Dr. Hansen?
Syd looks up to see a lady with blond hair standing in the doorway.
Syd: Yes, can I help you?
Lady: I'm with the department of social services, Blaire Mitchell.
Syd gives her a questioning look.
Syd: I didn't call for anyone in that area.
Blaire: I understand you've been taking care of two girls named Casey and Christy?
Syd: Yes, what about them.
Blaire: There was a call in this morning about two missing kids. They've been missing for about a month now and the police have been unable to track them down. They're from Connecticut.
Syd: Their parents are out of town.
Blaire: I know these kids; I put them with foster parents about four months ago.
Syd stands up.
Syd: I don't understand, what does this have to do with Casey and Christy?
Blaire: Dr. Hansen Casey's parents aren't out of town, they died six months ago in a plane crash.
Set: Saint Clare's
Syd enters set.
Syd: Hey Izzy. Who do I got today?
Izzy: (hesitant) well actually, Christy and Casey are here to see you for a
follow-up.
Syd: (looking blank) Yeah sure. Ok, thanks.
Syd goes to the room where Christy and Casey are waiting.
Christy: Hi, Dr. Hansen! Back here for my check up, right on time!
Syd nods grimly, and turns to look at her paperwork.
Christy stands up, and moves closer to Syd
Christy: (looking confused) Dr. Hansen? Did I do something wrong?
Syd: (turns quickly) Oh, no Christy, you didn't do anything wrong. But there
is something I'd like to talk to you about.
Casey stands up and moves next to her little sister, looking nervous.
Casey: What's that?
Syd: Why didn't you tell me your parents are dead?
To Be Continued. Look for Part 2 coming soon!