Chores

by imp01

Story is set early in the first season. Mark experiences his first medical situation with Hardcastle and learns a bit more about chores.

2. Chapter 2

When Hardcastle returned that evening, Sarah gave him a big smile. She remarked that Mark had been awake again and had a few ice chips. She explained that he had thanked her for being there when he woke up because he didn't want to be alone.

"So Your Honor, I made a deal with the nurses' desk. You'll be staying here tonight with Mark. The nurses and I agreed that Mark will probably wake at some point this evening and since he doesn't want to be alone, it would be beneficial for someone he knows to be here tonight."

"Sarah," the judge said with a bit of surprise in his voice, "are you sure this is a good idea?"

"Yes, Your Honor. I truly believe that he needs someone here tonight. He's scared and lonely," stated Sarah firmly. "The nurses will bring a cot for you later tonight. I'll stop by in the morning with a fresh change of clothes and some breakfast."

"Amazing. I leave for the afternoon and you've managed to understand the inner workings of McCormick's mind as well as work wonders with the nurses." The judge shook his head and walked over to Mark's bed and gave his hand a gentle squeeze. "Well, kiddo, looks like you are stuck with me this evening. How about watching the Duke tonight? Sorry, no popcorn for you."

"Well, it looks like you are all set, so I'll head back to the estate. Goodnight and see you in the morning."

"Goodnight, Sarah." The judge turned and sat down in the chair next to McCormick's bed and turned the TV on, flipping channels until he found a movie to watch. He made sure the volume was down low to avoid waking McCormick.

Before 10 pm that night, Mark woke up again. He opened his eyes slowly and saw the judge sitting in the chair next to his bed. The judge appeared to have fallen asleep watching "El Dorado". Mark could barely make out the voices from the TV but it only took one look to identify the movie. It was the first movie that he had watched with Hardcastle when he came to live at the estate. Mark smiled slightly at the memory.

"McCormick. How are you feelin'?" asked the Judge when he noticed that McCormick's eyes were open and there was a slight smile on his face.

"Okay. Water, please," croaked Mark.

"How about ice chips instead?" Hardcastle reached for the cup and spoon that he had placed on the bed table. He had made sure that the cup was always full with ice so he wouldn't have to leave the room when Mark woke.

Mark slowly nodded his head in agreement. After taking a couple of the spoonfuls of the offered ice chips he motioned that it was enough. "Thanks, Judge. At least the ice tastes better than breakfast will," quipped Mark.

"Oh yeah, while I am enjoying Sarah's blueberry muffins, you'll be enjoying a liquid diet," retorted Hardcastle. He was glad that the kid was able to make jokes after sleeping for the past three days.

"Liquid diet! You've got to be kidding?" Mark exclaimed as he tried to sit up.

"Yup. You recently had surgery and have had very little to eat for almost 5 days. Got to start off slow," explained Hardcastle as he worked the controls to raise the head of Mark's bed into a slightly inclined position. "Tomorrow will probably be weak tea or maybe some fruit juice with a little bit of gelatin."

"Oh man, do I hate hospitals," grumbled Mark. He was shifting around in bed trying to get comfortable. As he shifted he noticed the tubes coming from his side. "What's this?" asked Mark as he started to push it.

"Drainage tube for an abscess. Don't play with it," answered Hardcastle in a gruff but amazingly gentle voice. Looking at Mark's puzzled face, Hardcastle explained what had happened since Monday afternoon and the doctor's remaining concerns.

"Ahh, guess I've been out of it," answered Mark quietly. He hadn't realized that it was late on Thursday already and that both Sarah and Hardcastle had worried about him all week. It was nice to know that someone cared. Mark winced a little as he shifted again in bed.

"Pain?" asked Hardcastle getting ready to call the nurse if necessary.

"A little, but its manageable. The drugs are actually worse than the pain. Can't think straight and all I want to do is sleep." Mark lay back against the pillows.

"Nothing new there," joked the judge. "Really, McCormick, if you are in pain I can call the nurse."

"No, thanks." McCormick sat quietly and watched the movie for a few minutes. "No popcorn with the movie tonight?"

"Well, there was, but I ate it. Remember, it's a liquid diet for you," answered Hardcastle with a smile on his face.

"Can I have some more ice?"

"Sure, kid. Then I suggest you get some more sleep. You would fall over, if it weren't for the fact that you are already lying down," answered Hardcastle as he gave Mark some more ice chips.

After a couple more spoonfuls, Mark looked at the judge and said, "I'm sorry."

"What on earth for?"

"Not getting the rose garden done. I was really trying to get everything done," answered Mark in a quiet voice.

"Good grief, McCormick! I am not mad about the chores. I am, however, concerned that you didn't tell me you were sick and had been since Sunday."

"I didn't say anything because I was afraid you would send me back," offered Mark in a whisper. "I learned long ago not make a fuss about being sick."

"McCormick, what am I going to do with you?" asked the judge in an exasperated tone. "You are in my custody. Can you imagine the paperwork that I would have to complete if you died from something like appendicitis? It would appear that I neglected you or withheld medical services from you."

After a long moment of silence the judge said, "McCormick, you can trust me with stuff like this. Sarah and I don't want you to suffer when you are sick, especially when it could be something serious. Trust us. Okay?"

"I'll try," Mark said as he tried to stifle a yawn. He turned back to the TV and said with a grin, "Always liked that poem."

"What poem are you talking about?" asked Hardcastle, not sure exactly what McCormick was referring to.

"The one that Mississippi just said," answered Mark, gesturing to the TV. "It's by Edgar Allen Poe, the same guy that wrote 'The Raven'." Mark then recited it for Hardcastle.

Gaily bedight,
A gallant knight,
In sunshine and in shadow,
Had journeyed long,
Singing a song,
In search of Eldorado.

But he grew old
This knight so bold
And o'er his heart a shadow
Fell as he found
No spot of ground
That looked like Eldorado.

And, as his strength
Failed him at length,
He met a pilgrim shadow
"Shadow," said he,
"Where can it be
This land of Eldorado?"

"Over the Mountains
Of the Moon,
Down the Valley of the Shadow,
Ride, boldly ride,"
The shade replied
"If you seek for Eldorado!"

"So, when did you become a fan of Poe?" asked a surprised Hardcastle. "Most people aren't familiar with that poem, let alone able to recite the entire thing."

"Well, I had two years to catch up on my reading. American lit was a pretty easy class at my alma mater, UCSQ," quipped Mark as he started to yawn again.

"Come on, lie back down and get some sleep." The judge grabbed the bed controls and lowered the head of the bed. He helped McCormick settle back into a comfortable position. "Good night, kiddo."

"Night, Judge," yawned Mark. "Thanks." Mark closed his eyes and drifted off to sleep with a slight smile on his face.

The judge shut off the small lamp and settled into the chair for the remainder of the night. The nurses had offered to bring a cot in but he told them not to bother. Kid, what am I going to do with you? I think we need to have another talk, but it can wait until you are feeling better, thought the Judge as he drifted off to sleep.

Friday morning, Sarah arrived with the judge's breakfast, just as the nurse was bringing a tray in for McCormick. The judge and Mark were watching an old episode of the Lone Ranger on TV. "Good morning, Mark! It is good to see you sitting up and getting something to eat. How are you feeling this morning?"

"Good morning, Sarah. I'm glad to see you too. Can I have a muffin?" asked Mark hopefully. "This doesn't look very good," said Mark as he pointed to the tea and gelatin on his tray.

"Sorry, Mr. McCormick. Doctor ordered a liquid diet for you today. We need to see how your system handles this first," replied the nurse. "Now eat up and I will be back to clean you up in a little bit."

"Wonderful," grumbled Mark. He took a sip of the tea and set it back down. "Even the tea is bland. No sugar or lemon. No flavor."

"McCormick, quit your whining and eat your breakfast," grouched Hardcastle with a slight smile on his face. He was happy to hear the whining but would never say so. "Besides, the sooner you finish up, the sooner the nurse can give you a sponge bath," he added with a wink.

"Oh boy. Another reason to hate hospitals." Mark said dully as he looked at his tea and reluctantly took another sip.

"Mark, it isn't that bad. Besides in a few days you can go home," remarked Sarah as she saw him grimace at the tea. "Come on now, have a bit more and then you can rest. You still look a little flushed and tired."

Mark finished the tea with minimal whining but absolutely refused to eat the gelatin. He hated to admit that he was still tired and wanted to go to sleep. Sarah sensed that he was tiring and made every effort to make him comfortable enough so he could go back to sleep. While Sarah and the judge talked about the yard service that the judge had hired, Mark drifted off to sleep. The nurse returned as promised but didn't bother to wake McCormick for a sponge bath.

Mark slept for three hours and then began to move restlessly. When he woke up, Sarah was sitting next to his bed reading a book. His face was flushed and displayed a grimace of pain. "Mark, what's wrong?"

"My insides feel like they're on fire," whimpered Mark as he was trying to curl himself into a ball on the bed. "It hurts again."

Sarah quickly stood up and pushed the call button. She tried to convince Mark to lay still. She quickly felt his forehead and it was warm again. The nurse came into the room and asked what the problem was. Sarah quickly told her what Mark had said and indicated that his fever had returned. The nurse left and came back shortly with the doctor.

The doctor took a few minutes to examine Mark, who was obviously in major pain and then spoke. "Well, Mr. McCormick, it appears that either breakfast was too much for you, which I doubt, or you have developed another abscess. I tend to believe that it's another abscess since there is more drainage than yesterday."

"So what's it mean for Mark?" asked Sarah with growing concern as she watched Mark struggle with the pain. His had his eyes squeezed tight.

"Well, it means that Mark will be receiving another round of pain medication, some blood tests run, and depending on the outcome of those tests, we may be scheduling surgery for later this afternoon. We may need to go back in and drain an abscess," answered the doctor in his no-nonsense fashion. "Now, I'll go make the arrangements and the nurse will be back in a moment. We'll get Mark as comfortable as possible in the mean time."

The doctor quickly left the room and Sarah turned her attention back to Mark. She brushed more of his wayward curls from his forehead and tried to reassure him. Mark's eyes focused on Sarah's face. "Don't leave me, please," he whispered.

Sarah could tell that he was scared. The brash young man that Judge Hardcastle brought to the estate at 2 am several months ago was replaced with the scared young man in front of her. "Don't worry, I'm right here and everything is going to be just fine."

The nurse returned and injected the pain medicine into Mark's IV. She then proceeded to take a blood sample from him. Mark never noticed the needles because his eyes never left Sarah's face. After a few minutes, his features began to relax and his eyes started to close as the medicine took affect. "Stay, please," he mumbled as he drifted into the murkiness of a drug-induced sleep.

As soon as Sarah was sure that Mark was asleep, she placed a gentle kiss on his forehead. She picked up the phone and called the judge back at Gulls' Way. "Hardcastle," answered the judge as he picked up phone.

"Your Honor," returned Sarah in a quiet voice that made the judge nervous. "You need to return to the hospital. Mark's had a setback and they are making arrangements for a second surgery."

"What happened? Never mind, you can tell me when I get there. I'll be there in twenty minutes," answered the judge. He quickly hung up the phone and headed back to the hospital. As he had predicted, he was back in McCormick's room twenty minutes later.

"Judge, I'm glad that you are here but doesn't it normally take more than twenty minutes to get here?" admonished Sarah.

"Yeah, I know." Hardcastle said jokingly, "Don't tell the kid though. I get on him enough about his driving. So what happened?"

Sarah proceeded to tell the judge everything that had happened since breakfast. As they were talking the doctor returned and informed them that the blood tests showed raised white blood cell levels and that Mark would be going up to surgery in about an hour. He also explained that this was an anticipated complication that could easily be corrected. It would require additional tests to detect the location of the new abscess or abscesses. Once the abscesses were identified, a drainage tube would be inserted and then the area would be cleaned thoroughly. Another round of antibiotics and some more rest would be required.

Mark never woke up before he was taken to surgery. The Judge and Sarah spent the remainder of the afternoon waiting. Around 6pm, the doctor returned and informed then that everything had gone well during surgery. One new abscess had been drained and the original abscess was drained as well. The doctor informed them that Mark was taking longer than usual to wake up from the anesthesia and would be moved back to his room as soon as he was more alert. He had prescribed new antibiotics and insisted that Mark would fine in a couple more days. Unfortunately, it did mean a longer-than-planned stay in the hospital.

Several hours later, Mark was resting comfortably in his room along with Sarah and the judge. The judge was planning on staying overnight again.

"Judge, isn't there some requirement for slumber parties between judges and ex-cons to have at least one John Wayne movie?" quipped Mark.

"Not a problem, McCormick. Tonight's 'Hondo'."

"Never seen that one before, not even sure I've heard of it," answered Mark.

"You'll like it. It's one of his earlier movies. Starts in an hour, so there's time for a nap." Hardcastle could see the fatigue in Mark's face along with a slightly glazed look in his eyes.

"Mark, I'm heading home now. Take it easy and get some sleep," ordered Sarah gently. "See you in the morning." Both Hardcastle and Mark said good night as she left.

Mark managed to stay awake for the first fifteen minutes of the movie. Hardcastle looked over to the sleeping ex-con and smiled. He stood up and pulled the blanket up over Mark's chest and then lowered the bed a bit. "Good night, McCormick," he whispered as he settled back into the chair, turned the volume down and finished the movie.

The next day was a blur for Mark. Nurses came, changed the IV bags, and replaced the drainage bags. The doctor continued to prescribe a dosage of pain medication for McCormick, knowing that the abdominal area was going to be very sensitive. Mark slept through most of it. He was awake for about two hours total. Hardcastle stayed the night, sitting in the chair next to Mark's bed. It was another quiet night.

Sunday morning when Sarah returned she found Mark sitting up in his bed with a breakfast tray. It was the same bland tea and gelatin. Hardcastle was not in the room. "Good morning, Mark!" greeted Sarah warmly. "Where's the judge?"

"Cafeteria," said Mark simply. "He wanted some coffee and I didn't want an audience for my morning sponge bath." Mark stared at the food on his tray.

"Well, it appears that you are feeling better today."

"Yeah, I guess so. Side still hurts." Mark looked up from tray. He looked pale but the glazed look in his eyes from the previous night was gone. As Mark looked at Sarah, his face held an expression of guilt and remorse. "Sarah, I'm sorry I didn't say anything about this on Monday morning when you asked if I was okay. I should have said something Sunday night when the pain started."

"Mark, I think I understand why you didn't say anything," Sarah said quietly. Mark looked at her with a question in his eyes. Sarah continued, "You didn't feel like you could trust us, did you?"

"I guess so. I knew I should have said something, but I didn't want to become a headache. Besides, I did try to say something to the judge, but he was in a bad mood that morning."

"Didn't want to be a headache!" bellowed Hardcastle as he entered the room. Both Sarah and Mark jumped at the sound of the judge. "You've been a headache since I met you in my courtroom three years ago."

"Your Honor! Please, this is not helping," admonished Sarah.

"It's okay, Sarah. Judge's right. I've been a headache and by not saying anything on Monday, I've become a migraine."

"Okay, kid. Got a new deal for you," challenged Hardcastle looking directly at McCormick.

McCormick looked at him and asked, "Oh yeah, what kinda deal?"

"You be honest with us and I'll try harder to listen. Of course, can't guarantee that it'll be easy for either of us."

"Well, at least this deal is easier to accept than the first deal you offered me." Mark paused and then quipped, "I accept. It should be fun watching an old donkey like you learn to listen."

"McCormick!" bellowed the judge.

Sarah watched the expression on the judge's face. His voice may have been gruff but there was a smile in his eyes. "Your Honor, I think we should let Mark finish his breakfast before you yell at him too much."

Mark looked over at Sarah and gave her his trademark goofy grin. "Thanks, Sarah."

"You, young man," Sarah said pointing her finger at Mark, "finish eating. I want to see you eat that gelatin, not just play with it. If you want to get out of here, then you need to eat better."

"Yes, ma'am" replied Mark bashfully. He was happy to have people who cared about him and he was beginning to feel like he could be honest with Sarah and the judge. He still had a few questions to ask the judge, but those could wait.

Mark reluctantly finished his breakfast and decided a nap would be a good plan. He also decided he didn't need to be watched while he slept, especially since he felt better. "Judge, you said you want me to be honest with you, can we start now?"

"Sure. What's on your mind?" asked Hardcastle, not expecting this so soon.

"I want you and Sarah to go back to the estate while I nap. You've been here the last three nights, sleeping in that chair," Mark said, as he pointed to the uncomfortable-looking hospital chair. "Go home and get some real sleep," commanded Mark.

As Mark settled back down, Sarah and the judge agreed to go back to the estate for a few hours. Sarah promised she would return at lunchtime and the judge promised to be back for dinner.

Mark spent most of the day sleeping. The new antibiotics seemed to be helping since he was more alert at lunchtime when Sarah visited and managed to stay awake for most of the evening movie with Hardcastle. At the end of the movie, Hardcastle pulled the blanket up around McCormick and patted his shoulder. "Good night, kid. I'll be back tomorrow."

"Bring muffins," mumbled Mark as Hardcastle turned to leave.

"Not for another day. Tuesday, McCormick, Tuesday," Hardcastle chuckled and headed out the door.

Mark tried to be a good patient on Monday. He grumbled about the liquid diet at breakfast and was rewarded with a little bit of fruit ice at lunch. By dinnertime, Mark was a grumpy patient. He was tired of being confined to a bed. As he looked at the tray containing his dinner of beef broth, orange Jell-O, strained fruit juice, a milk shake, and more tea, he was practically begging Sarah to bring him muffins the next day. Sarah just smiled and handed him the cup of orange Jell-O.

Tuesday morning, Mark was waiting in bed for Sarah. He was as anxious as a kid on Christmas. The nurses had informed him that he could start eating solid food again and had brought him a breakfast tray. Mark lifted the cover on the plate and cringed. Scrambled eggs a la hospital. Yuck!

As soon as Sarah and the judge walked into the room, McCormick was asking for muffins. Sarah smiled and handed him two muffins that were still warm from the oven and wrapped in a towel. Mark quickly unwrapped then and took a large bite of the first one. "Blueberry! Oh, Sarah, I have died and gone to heaven," exclaimed Mark.

"Nonsense. It's just a simple muffin made from a family recipe," answered Sarah with a big smile. She loved the grin that was on Mark's face as he ate the muffins. He could act like such a kid at times, which amazed her. Most of the other convicts that had been at Gulls' Way struggled to see the bright side of life. It was like prison had removed their ability to see joy in the simple things. Mark had not lost that precious gift.

"McCormick, you don't need to eat so fast," admonished Hardcastle.

"Oh yeah. I suppose you want me to share. Well, no way. These are mine and I'm not sharing," Mark teased with a big grin on his face.

"Don't need to share. There's a dozen more waiting at home," answered Hardcastle. He actually enjoyed watching Mark.

"Well, in that case, can I have some more?"

"Sorry, Mark," answered Sarah. "The doctor said to start out slow. Now that you have had this treat, you will need to stick the hospital diet."

"Please tell me you're kidding. I don't think I can eat any of the food here," said Mark pointing at his plate. "Look at this and tell me you would honestly touch the eggs."

"Well, I wouldn't, but I'm not the one that's sick," explained Hardcastle with a smile. "Eat your breakfast and then we can watch TV. The Lone Ranger is on at 9:30 and I think it's an episode that you'll like – 'Return of the Convict'. It's about an man who was sent to prison for a crime he didn't commit."

"Judge, are you making this up?" asked McCormick, trying not to gag on a bite of the eggs.

"Scout's honor. It's a real episode. Only difference from your case is that he didn't really do it and the witness lied," answered Hardcastle with a smile.

"Come on," whined McCormick. He was happy to be bantering again with Hardcastle.

"Stop, both of you are acting like children," laughed Sarah. "Mark, finish breakfast. Your Honor, let him eat."

Mark finished breakfast as the Lone Ranger was starting. Hardcastle and Mark watched the episode in companionable silence. As the show was finishing the doctor came to check on McCormick. He indicated that everything was looking good. Drainage had stopped on the first abscess and was almost non-existent on the second. He made plans to remove the first drainage tube that afternoon. The mention of removing one of the tubes was great news to Mark. He was ready to celebrate with another muffin.

"Sarah, since things are going so well, can I have another muffin?" asked McCormick.

"Mr. McCormick, I let you have Ms. Wicks' muffins this morning as a special treat. However, I want you to follow the prescribed diet for the remainder of the day," replied the doctor. Seeing the frown on McCormick's face he continued, "If things continue to improve at the current rate, we can look at adding more treats to your diet. I've been told that popcorn is a necessity with John Wayne movies."

"Yeah, and so is beer. Not like I'll be getting any of that in here," grumbled Mark.

"Correct. But you also won't be drinking it at home for a few weeks either. Alcohol, pain killers, and antibiotics don't mix," quipped Hardcastle.

"Okay, fine. I'll be good little boy and eat my veggies," joked Mark as he looked at Hardcastle. Then in a serious tone he asked the doctor, "When do I go home?"

"It will be a few more days, Mark. First, we'll remove that tube this afternoon and possibly the others tomorrow. Another few days of rest to strengthen your system, then you should be able to go home on Saturday afternoon."

"Saturday. Well, at least it's something to look forward to. Thanks, Doctor."

"Well, if you have no other questions, I'll be back around 3 pm to remove that drainage tube."

"Thank you, Doctor," Sarah said as the doctor turned to leave. Sarah then turned to face Mark. "Such wonderful news. Mark, you look a bit tired. Do you want a nap before lunch?"

"I guess so. There isn't much to do but sit in bed and I am not in a hurry for lunch." Mark lay back against the pillows as Sarah lowered the bed. "That's far enough. Thanks, Sarah. Look, you don't need to wait around with me."

"Are you sure?" asked Sarah. She was surprised by the request for them to leave, especially after he had been so scared earlier.

"I'll be fine. How about coming back for the removal procedure? Maybe afterwards we can celebrate with a nice cup of Jell-O."

"Sounds like a plan. I'll check to see which movie is on tonight and bring some cards back with me," offered Hardcastle. "Maybe the three of us can play later."

"It's 'Fort Apache', Judge. Saw the advertisement earlier," stated Mark. "Cards would be great. See you both later," yawned Mark.

Mark closed his eyes and drifted off to sleep after the judge and Sarah left. Around noon , the nurse returned with a lunch tray. McCormick did his best to eat the vegetable soup and some of the cooked carrots. The only thing that he ate all of was the crackers and his milk. Not much of a lunch but at least I tried. He wasn't really tired so he decided to watch a little TV while he waited for Hardcastle and Sarah to return.

At 2:30 pm, he woke to see Sarah smiling at him from her chair. "Good afternoon, Mark. Did you have a nice nap?" asked Sarah.

"Yeah," answered Mark rubbing the sleep from his eyes. "I don't remember falling asleep, though. I was watching some talk show."

"Yeah, I turned if off. Nothing interesting on in the middle of the day," called Hardcastle from the doorway. "Just talked with the doctor and they will be ready for you in fifteen minutes."

"Okay," replied Mark, taking a sip from the glass of water on his bedside table. "By the way, I was a good boy and ate my lunch, well, except most of the mushy carrots." Mark flashed a grin at Sarah.

A few minutes later, the nurse came to take McCormick back to radiology where they were going to remove the drainage tube and check the size of the second abscess. It would be a relatively easy procedure that did not require general anesthesia, just a local. Sarah and the judge remained in Mark's room. An hour later, Mark was back and appeared to be relaxed. "One down, two more to go," commented Mark. "They figure the next one can be removed late tomorrow morning. Then I can get out of bed."

"That's wonderful, Mark. By the way, we brought a few things from home for you. Thought you might want your robe and slippers."

"Thanks, Sarah."

"Great news, McCormick," said the judge with a sparkle in his eye. "I have a real treat for you tonight. Can't have popcorn and beer, but I have something that should be just as good, provided you eat all of your dinner."

"Judge, what did you bring?" asked Mark suspiciously.

"Nope, not telling. Just have to wait." The judge looked over at Sarah who was giving him a disapproving look. "So, what do you say we play cards until dinner?" When no one seemed eager to answer, the judge asked, "Rummy or Blackjack?"

"Rummy," answered Sarah quickly. "I'll deal." Sarah took out the deck of cards and they proceeded to play rummy until Mark's dinner tray arrived.

The judge went down to the cafeteria and brought back two meatloaf dinners for Sarah and him. Their dinner did look better than Mark's dinner of bland potato soup, baked fish, and broccoli. The bright spot on McCormick's tray was the strawberry Jell-O. Mark did his best to eat, or at least try everything on his tray.

"McCormick, just eat your dinner." The judge watched him a moment longer and asked, "Were you this picky in prison?"

"No. The food was a bit better there. At least there were lumpy mashed potatoes. I'm trying, Judge, honestly," whined Mark. "I guess, I've gotten spoiled with Sarah's cooking."

"Well, cheer up, in a few more days, you can eat her cooking."

"I know, I'm counting the days."

"Mark, I'll bring you something tomorrow for lunch. Just need to clear it with the doctor first." Sarah watched the expression on Mark's face go from sullen to grinning. He really is easy to please. Sarah smiled at Mark and then said, "Well, I had better go check with the doctor and then head home." She looked at the judge and said, "Don't keep him up late."

"Good night, Sarah, and thanks," Mark said, as the judge began to pick up the dinner remains. About a half hour after Sarah left, Mark sat back in his bed and asked, "So, what's my treat?"

"Catch." Hardcastle threw a napkin-wrapped object to McCormick.

McCormick opened the package and grinned, "You decided to share. Thanks, Judge."

"Yeah, well, can't have you starving to death," Hardcastle said in his gruff voice that was trying to hide the laughter. "Besides, even I can take pity on someone having to eat that food. I thought military service food was bad, but it wasn't that bad."

Mark gave Hardcastle the biggest, goofy grin he could muster and said, "Thanks!" as he took a bite out of the blueberry muffin. He could have sworn he heard Hardcastle mutter something about muffins appearing to be better than dating. They played a couple hands of cards before the movie came on. Mark and Hardcastle watched the movie with Mark providing his normal commentary and Hardcastle telling him to be quiet.

The next day, Mark ate breakfast by himself. He was feeling better and was happy when the doctor scheduled to have the remaining drainage tube removed at 10 am. He called the judge and told him to wait and come over for lunch. The morning's procedure went well and McCormick was able to finally get out of bed for a few minutes. He was very shaky standing but didn't care. The doctor warned him not to get out of bed unless someone was with him.

"Can't have you falling over and breaking a leg," stated the doctor as he watched Mark take a few shaky steps.

"Nah, he wouldn't break his leg, maybe his head, but not his leg," called Hardcastle, as he walked into the room.

"Judge, look, I can get up now," shouted an overjoyed McCormick, who was standing next to his bed.

That's wonderful, Mark!" greeted Sarah as she came into the room carrying a basket.

Mark saw the basket and attempted to rush over to Sarah. He only made it a few steps before his legs turned to jelly. Hardcastle noticed the change in Mark's stance and reached out an arm to catch him as he went down, being careful of the IV that was still attached. Hardcastle then guided Mark back to bed, while the doctor moved the IV pole.

"See, doctor, won't break a leg. Hardcase will just catch me," said Mark sitting back on the bed and taking his robe off.

"Well, still take it slow. No getting up by your self and be careful with the IV. Now, I will leave you to your lunch," said the doctor as he gave Sarah a wink and smile.

Mark looked over at Sarah. "You made lunch!"

"Yes, but only part of it. You still need to eat the tray that the nurse is bringing for you," said Sarah as she opened the basket and started to pull out a loaf of bread and a big bowl.

"What did you make?" asked McCormick anxiously.

"Vegetable soup and bread. An old family recipe that also happens to be the judge's favorite," replied Sarah with a smile.

"Sarah, you are an angel. Do I have to share with the judge?"

"Hey! I shared my muffins with you, so yeah, you have to share," retorted Hardcastle as he handed McCormick a bowl.

"Just checking," replied Mark with a grin.

As Sarah started to serve the soup, the nurse came in with Mark's tray. "Ah, looks like someone had been very good today – no gelatin," quipped Hardcastle. He had noticed that Mark absolutely hated the gelatin and would spend more time playing with it than actually eating it.

Mark ignored the tray and took a spoonful of the vegetable soup. "Oh Sarah, this is wonderful. Thank you!" exclaimed Mark.

"You're welcome, Mark."

After Mark finished the bowl of soup and a slice of bread, Sarah convinced Mark to at least try the hamburger that was on his tray. Mark managed to eat half of the hamburger, the applesauce, and the pudding. Sarah was happy to see him eating. She had noticed that Mark had lost a lot of weight since he had been in the hospital. He's normally a thin young man, but now he's so bony. It's going to take some time to put the weight back on, but it should be a good excuse to learn what his favorite foods are and make them.

"Well, it appears that my work here is done - two gentlemen with full stomachs," said Sarah as she packed up the bowls and soup remains. "I'm going back to Gulls' Way. I have some things to finish tonight, so I won't be back until tomorrow." Sarah turned to the judge and said "Make sure Mark takes a nap and takes it easy."

"Yes, ma'am," answered Mark before the judge could respond. "I'll be careful. Thanks again, Sarah. See you tomorrow."

Sarah gave Mark a small kiss on the cheek, said good-bye, and left quietly. The judge made himself comfortable in the chair, while Mark fidgeted in bed.

"Stop fidgeting," grumped Hardcastle

"Can't, I kinda need to get up. Bathroom," said an embarrassed McCormick.

"Ahh. Let me help you walk over there," offered the judge as he watched Mark get out of bed. Hardcastle grabbed the IV pole and walked alongside Mark across the room. He then waited patiently for Mark to come out to make the return trip across the room.

Once Mark was settled back in bed, he said, "Thanks, Judge. Not used to having to ask for help with the simple tasks."

"Not a problem. Had similar experiences in the past," responded Hardcastle. "Now settle down and take your nap. I'm tired."

Both men managed to fall asleep. By mid-afternoon, Hardcastle was awake and watching McCormick sleep. Kid, you amaze me. You are thriving with Sarah's attention. How can you be so happy with the simple things like soup or muffins? I know I told you that you weren't a replacement, but damn you do have some similarities to Tommy. Both of you love those blueberry muffins, are good kids, and can drive me crazy. However, your smart mouth and quirky smile set you apart. You're definitely not a substitute. You are an original. Hardcastle smiled to himself as he thought.

"Whatcha thinking, Hardcase? The next guy we're going after?" joked McCormick.

"Nah. Just thinking about the jungle that you'll be going back to," parried Hardcastle.

"Wonderful. Maybe I should break that leg," countered McCormick. "Hey, can we go for a walk?"

"Are you up to it?"

"Yeah, I need to get out of the room," McCormick said as he swung his legs over the edge of the bed. "Hand me my robe. Can't stand the air-conditioning on these gowns." Hardcastle chuckled as he handed Mark the robe.

Mark made it as far as the nurses' station before he decided it was far enough. "I can't believe how tired I'm already," moaned Mark.

"Not unusual, considering you've been in a bed for the past ten days. It'll get better," offered Hardcastle. "Lie back and we'll try again after dinner." Hardcastle pulled out the deck of cards and offered them to McCormick. "Poker or Blackjack?"

"Poker." They played poker until the dinner tray was brought in. Mark took one look at it and cringed.

"No whining tonight. Just eat."

"Didn't say a thing."

"No, but you were thinking it. I'll be back in a few minutes. I'm going to the cafeteria."

When Hardcastle returned twenty minutes later with his dinner, Mark was just finishing his baked chicken. The cauliflower and carrots were still on his plate. Hardcastle set his dinner down and began to eat. As Mark struggled to finish the vegetables, Hardcastle pulled a chocolate bar from his jacket pocket and pushed it towards Mark. "For the movie tonight. I get half. Don't tell Sarah."

Mark looked at Hardcastle and smiled. His eyes sparkled with the knowledge that they were co-conspirators. Both men finished their dinner in silence. After dinner, Hardcastle helped Mark out of bed for the promised walk. This time they made it past the nurses station and almost halfway around the floor. Mark was exhausted so they returned to the room and settled in for the movie, "The Cowboys".

The next morning, Mark managed to convince a nurse to help him take a walk around the floor before breakfast. As he returned to his room, the doctor, as well as Sarah and Hardcastle, were waiting for him.

"Well, kid, looks like you couldn't wait to start the dating the nurses," commented Hardcastle as he watched the pretty blond nurse help Mark back into bed. "I thought the gentleman was supposed to make sure the lady got home okay, instead of the other way around," laughed Hardcastle.

"Judge, this was not a date. Nurse Julie is already married and has two kids of her own," replied Mark. "Now, I am thinking about asking Nurse Amy for a date. She's the cute brunette that does the sponge-baths."

"Okay, you two. Enough." Sarah tried to hide a smile. "Mark, the doctor has some more news for you."

"Yes, Mark. Since you seem to be eager to go for walks, if everything continues as well as it has, we may let you take a walk in the courtyard tomorrow." The doctor sensing McCormick was going to ask something continued, "As for today, continue walking the floor with assistance." The doctor then turned to the judge and said, "No more chocolate bars; they're not on the approved list yet."

The judge looked at McCormick. "Don't look at me, I didn't say anything. It's my stomach that suffers if I don't get treats," exclaimed Mark.

"No, Mark didn't say anything. Nurse Janet, the nurse that came in and told you two to quiet down, saw the evidence. And yes, I know that Mark only had half," chuckled the doctor.

Both the judge and Mark had slightly guilty looks on their faces when Sarah looked at them. "Your Honor! You promised that you would keep him out of trouble," admonished Sarah as she laughed at the two grown men before her.

"Well, I'll allow one small treat for tonight's movie. Provided you promise to keep the noise levels down. This is a hospital after all," quipped the doctor. Turning to Sarah, he said, "I'll let you tell them later."

Sarah smiled in return and thanked the doctor as he left the room. Turning her attention to Hardcastle she said, "Go, run your errands. Mark and I will sit here while he eats breakfast. We'll see you at lunch."

"Right. See you both later."

Sarah sat with Mark as he ate his breakfast. They chatted for a while before Mark asked, "Why does he do what he does?"

"What do you mean, Mark?" asked Sarah. She wasn't sure what Mark was thinking but she knew that something serious was on his mind.

"I mean, how come he's been on my case since that first day in court? I know you said he cares, but I don't understand why he fusses so much about the pool, the hedges, the rose garden, and the lawn. I feel more like a slave instead of a rehabilitation project."

"Mark, the judge cares. He expects you to follow the rules that he lays out because he feels you need structure. The chores are a way of giving you some responsibility and something to take pride in." Seeing the confusion in Mark's eyes, Sarah took a deep breath and continued. "Did your mother expect you to do chores around the house when you were growing up?"

"Yeah, I helped with the dishes every night," responded Mark quietly. "I also helped with making dinner. Momma worked two jobs, so I had to help out. At least I did, until she got sick and died when I was twelve."

"Your momma was teaching you responsibilities and creating structure with those chores. Did you ever feel pride in something that you made your mom for dinner?" Sarah stopped for a moment and watched Marks expression. She stood up and moved to sit on the side of his bed. "Sometimes, when people care, they want to challenge you with more responsibilities."

"So, the judge expects me to take pride in the yard work?" questioned Mark looking at Sarah.

"Yes and no. He understands that a lot of what he is asking you to do is new for you. He expects you to take pride in learning the new skills that are required to maintain the estate. Your ability to acquire new skills will help you develop a better sense of who you can become. The judge is only giving you a chance to determine what type of life you want for yourself."

"So, he cares enough to give me a safe environment, in which to make mistakes."

Mark's mind was considering more questions to ask when Sarah placed her hand on his cheek, looked into his soft blue eyes and said, "I give you chores because I care. I believe that you are a good man, who has made several mistakes and I see that you are honestly trying. The judge sees those same qualities. You are different than all of the other ex-cons that we have had at Gulls' Way. You care about people and want to do the right thing. You tend to do the right thing, but with the wrong method." Sarah stopped for a moment. "It's like mulching the gardens. You can spread the mulch over the weeds or you can pull the weeds and then spread the mulch. Both ways get the mulch down, but one method is more time-consuming and gives a better finished product."

Mark smiled and clasped Sarah's hands between his. "Thanks, I think I understand. He cares. He gives me chores and he expects me to make mistakes. He also expects me to succeed." Sarah smiled back at him and nodded her head in agreement. "I think I need a short nap."

Sarah got up and helped Mark with the blankets. Once he was resting comfortably, she sat back in her chair to await the judge's return. I think he finally understands what we expect of him. The judge picked a good candidate for his retirement project.

"Well, kiddo, ready for a walk?" asked Hardcastle, as he walked into the room before lunch.

"Yeah." Mark got up from the bed and slipped the robe easily over the right arm and carefully over the left shoulder. Hardcastle grabbed the IV pole and they both walked slowly out of the room, heading down the hall.

That evening, as Sarah was getting ready to leave, Mark remembered what the doctor said. "Sarah, what's the treat for tonight's movie? He said you were going to tell us."

"Well, I remember someone saying you couldn't have a John Wayne movie without popcorn and beer. No, there's no beer for tonight. However, one of the nurses will be bringing a couple bowls of popcorn in for tonight's movie."

"Sarah, how did you manage that one?" asked an astounded Hardcastle.

"Well, I mentioned to the doctor that tonight's movie was 'Tall in the Saddle'," said Sarah simply. "It just so happens to be his favorite and he agreed that you couldn't have the Duke without the popcorn."

"I really get to have popcorn?" asked Mark. A thought occurred to him that caused his grin to sag for a moment as he said, "Please tell me the hospital kitchen didn't make it."

"No, the doctors' lounge has a popcorn maker and the nurses will make it for you. No butter or salt, but at least it's something."

"I don't care if there's no butter or salt, as long as the hospital kitchen didn't make it!" exclaimed Mark.

"Speak for yourself, McCormick. Some of us like our butter and salt," grouched Hardcastle with an amused expression.

"Well, I will see you two tomorrow. Good night and remember to keep the noise down."

Both men wished Sarah a good night. Mark then got out of bed and started to reach for his robe. Hardcastle helped him and then grabbed the IV pole. Mark set the pace for the walk around the floor. He managed to complete two and a half laps before deciding to call it quits for the night. Tomorrow, he was going out to the courtyard.

Friday morning, it rained and Mark's courtyard trip was cancelled. He walked three laps around the floor instead. It was going to be a long day inside. Mark was grumpy and no amount of walking inside was going to cure it. Hardcastle tried to interest Mark in a game of cards but he declined. Instead he lay back in bed and tried to fall asleep. Hardcastle decided to talk with the doctor about Mark's release, so he excused himself and went in search of the doctor. About an hour later, Hardcastle came back to the room, whispered something to Sarah. Sarah picked up her purse and left.

When Sarah returned at lunchtime, she came in carrying a bag of fast food. Mark had been dozing until he smelled French fries. He woke up and looked at the bag in Sarah's hand and gave her the biggest grin.

"Once again, the Angel of Mercy has returned," quipped Mark.

"No, just the delivery person. The judge is your Angel of Mercy today," responded Sarah with an equally big grin.

Mark turned to the judge and asked, "So how did you pull this one off? If chocolate got us in trouble, how do you think the doctor will respond to greasy fries?"

"Nope, all clear with the doctor. Since things are going so well, we decided to give you a break from the food here." The judge waited a moment for the reality of the situation to sink in before continuing, "So, you can have this for lunch and we're having pizza for dinner."

"You're kidding, right? Please tell me this isn't a joke," begged Mark.

"Wouldn't joke about hospital food, kiddo," laughed Hardcastle. "You want the best news?"

"Yeah," replied Mark nervously.

"The IV comes out this afternoon and you start on oral antibiotic in preparation for going home tomorrow." Hardcastle was grinning as he told Mark about going home.

"YES!" hollered Mark, just as a nurse was walking past the room. She stopped and popped her head in the door.

"Mr. McCormick! Please remember that not everyone on this floor is as healthy as you. Shhh," admonished the nurse. "By the way, I am happy to hear you will be going home tomorrow." She smiled at the group and left.

"Oops. Okay, Sarah, hand the bag over and let's eat." Mark was so excited to be eating real food, getting rid of the IV and knowing that this was his last night in the hospital.

That night in the hospital after enjoying a dinner of plain cheese pizza, since pepperoni was still on the restricted list, Hardcastle and Mark went on a long walk. Mark wanted to stop by the nurses' station to request popcorn for the night's movie. As he placed his order, the older nurse from his first nights in the hospital stopped.

"Mr. McCormick, you look a lot better than the first night I saw you." Seeing the confusion on his face, she said, "Please forgive me, I'm Nurse Eaton. I was with you the first couple nights that you were here. You were pretty out of it and probably don't remember me."

Mark blushed and apologized for any trouble that he caused. Hardcastle had told him about pulling the IV out. Nurse Eaton just smiled back and assured him it wasn't a problem. "I do have one question for you though. You mumbled something about a donkey and a coyote. What were you referring to?"

Mark looked at Hardcastle and burst out laughing. He then turned to the nurse and pointed to Hardcastle, "He's the donkey. The coyote's my car. I guess I must have been thinking about him driving my car."

"The coyote, huh. Must be some car to have a name like that," replied the nurse. She didn't want to ask about the donkey commentary.

"It's a race car that was designed by a friend," offered McCormick. Mark looked over at Hardcastle and decided it was time to head back to the room for a bit. He looked back at the nurse and thanked her for taking care of him and wished her a good evening. As they walked back to the room, McCormick asked the judge about any other weird things that he mentioned in his sleep.

"Well kiddo, you were up at 6:30 am asking for your basketball."

"Judge, I don't get up that early for anyone but you. And you have to make a lot of noise first," retorted Mark. He didn't believe that he would actually have been awake and asking for a basketball at that hour.

Later that evening, Mark was sitting in bed watching the movie when he decided it was time to get some answers. "Judge, can I ask you something?"

"Just did," answered Hardcastle, not even looking away from the movie.

"Seriously. Why was Dalem here?" Mark asked nervously, as he set his popcorn down. Mark watched Hardcastle's face and noticed a slight twitch.

"What do you mean?"

"Well, I have a vague memory of him being in the room and I heard you say something about not trusting the arrangement and being sent back. Are you and Dalem sending me back?" Mark looked directly into Hardcastle's eyes.

The Judge could see that Mark was scared, so he decided to put it all out in the open. "No, I am not sending you back. Jeez, McCormick, what type of person do you think I am?" answered Hardcastle gruffly. "Mr. Dalem was just checking in to see how you were doing. He is your parole officer after all." Hardcastle paused to watch Mark's eyes. "I met with him that Monday you ended up in here. We made a deal that would limit the number of check-in visits with his office to once a quarter. The first appointment was scheduled for that Wednesday. He is planning on coming out to Gulls' Way when you are feeling better."

"Oh," answered McCormick. "That's good. Because I really don't want to go back." Mark looked relieved and settled back into the pillows.

The judge watched McCormick and quietly said, "Now, can I ask you a question?"

"Just did," quipped Mark with brightness in his eye.

"Smart mouth." Hardcastle looked at Mark for a moment and then asked, "Who's Simmons?"

Mark's face went pale and the laughter that had been in his eyes earlier was gone. "Where did you hear that name?" asked Mark in a small voice.

"You mentioned him in one of your fevered conversations," responded Hardcastle. In an attempt to make McCormick more comfortable he added quickly, "As well as something about donkeys and coyotes."

"Oh." Mark was wondering what else had been said. He looked down at the empty bowl of popcorn and studied the un-popped kernels.

"If you don't want to tell me, that's fine. I was curious since you were very agitated when you said the name," said Hardcastle quietly, sensing that Mark was upset by the question.

"No, I'll tell you." Mark paused and took a deep breath before speaking again. "Simmons was a thug on a life sentence. He was also someone who made my first months at Quentin a living nightmare. Because of him, I spent ten days in solitary for something I didn't do. You saw my record. Ten days in solitary for unauthorized access to a classroom and fighting." Mark stopped and looked up at Hardcastle. "I was targeted for being the new guy on the block. I never provoked Simmons, but he sent two guys after me. I ended up breaking his nose before he was re-located to another block. He threatened to kill me if I ever came back."

Hardcastle didn't know what to say. Mark's confession didn't surprise him, but the sadness in his voice and the anger in his eyes did. "Sorry, kid. I didn't know about Simmons. That type of behavior should never be allowed."

"Yeah, well it happens. Consider it an initiation ritual," spat back McCormick. He softened his tone and then said, "Forget about him. I try not to dwell on those first few months." Mark paused for a moment and then said lightly, "I'm actually surprised you didn't know him. I thought you sent everyone to Quentin. Got any more popcorn?"

"Nah, I sent a few to Alcatraz." Hardcastle knew that McCormick was done talking about this topic and decided to let it drop. "All out of popcorn. Time for bed."

Mark gave Hardcastle a small smile and began to settle back against the pillows. The judge turned off the TV and was about to leave when McCormick quietly said, "Stay, please."

"Sure, kid, I'll stay," answered Hardcastle gently. He settled back into his chair and turned off the lights. "Good night."

"Night."

McCormick was released from the hospital later the next morning. After spending thirteen days in the hospital, suffering through two surgeries, and losing almost twenty pounds, Mark was ready to go home, or at least back to the gatehouse. He was tired of sitting in the hospital room with nothing to do, except pick at the hospital food, sleep and watch TV. Hardcastle was helping Mark get dressed when the doctor came into his room to go over the discharge instructions.

"Mark, you need to take it easy for several more weeks. You need to continue taking the antibiotics for a month. You are not allowed to drive for a couple more weeks, or at least until the abdominal muscles have healed further."

"Oh come on, doctor, no driving for a week! You have got to be kidding me," Mark practically yelled.

"Mark, this is serious. And it will be at least two more weeks before I allow you to drive. You've had surgery on the abdominal muscles. They need time to heal. The last thing that you want to do is to tear the muscles and come back here. Am I right?"

"Yeah, I suppose. So what else do I have to do or not do as the case may be?" Mark asked.

"No heavy lifting until you are cleared by me. Only light activities will be allowed, but not for another week. Even then, I don't want you to overdo it. You will tire easy and it'll take some time to build back up to your previous activity level."

"Hey, did you hear that, Hardcase? No cleaning gutters, the pool, or mowing the lawn for weeks!" Mark said teasingly to Hardcastle with a big grin.

"Don't worry kid. Next week were working on some filing issues. I have plenty of other light chores for you to work on for the next couple of weeks." Hardcastle said with a devious smile. Oh, I definitely have a few things to keep you busy, kid.

"Oh," McCormick mumbled with the smile leaving his face. "I guess this won't be a vacation then."

"No, it won't totally be a vacation. There are still some chores that you will do. However, for the next week it can be a vacation of sorts," stated Hardcastle and then he focused his attention back on the doctor. "So, what other issues do we need to deal with before taking McCormick home?"

"Well, I would like Mark to avoid doing stairs for the next week. That should give the abdominal muscles additional time. I want to see Mark next week for a follow-up visit. The incision dressing should be changed daily. Try to keep it dry. Showers are not a problem, but no swimming," the doctor said giving Mark a knowing look.

"Okay, so much for lounging in the pool," whined Mark.

"By the pool is okay. The fresh air will be good for you," gruffed Hardcastle. "You can work on getting that tan back that you are always bragging about."

Once the doctor was sure that Mark was going to follow orders, he released Mark to go home. Hardcastle walked with Mark out to the front door and to the truck. Hardcastle helped Mark into the truck and they proceeded to head home. Mark watched anxiously for the Gulls' Way entrance. He was eager to be home and out of the small hospital room.

Mark wanted to walk along the beach, but knew there was no way Hardcastle would let him go down. However, he decided to be content with sitting by the pool and watching the boats on the ocean. As soon as they pulled into the driveway, Sarah came out to greet them. She quickly ushered Mark into the main house. She had a light lunch ready for Mark. Once lunch was over, Hardcastle mentioned to Mark that he should take a nap.

"Judge, I was hoping to spend time out by the pool."

"Nah, take a nap first. Heat of the day is bad for your white skin. Don't want sunburn on the first day home."

Mark conceded and was headed to the gatehouse when the judge stopped him. "Where are you going?"

"Gatehouse, my bed."

"Nope, no stairs. Remember? Sarah fixed a room for you here." Hardcastle walked down the hall to the living room and opened the door for Mark. "See, all the comforts of home." Hardcastle pointed to the bed that had been set-up in the living room for Mark.

"Thanks," replied Mark as he moved to the bed. He sat down and kicked his shoes off. "Wake me in an hour, 'kay."

"Yah," replied Hardcastle as he closed the door behind him.

Two hours later, Mark came into the den. "What happened to waking me in an hour?"

"Tried, but you mentioned something about an old donkey and no basketball. Decided it was better for you to sleep some more."

"Oh. Guess I was tired."

"Sarah has pot roast for dinner. Be ready in a couple hours. Go on, sit by the pool."

"Sarah makes the best pot roast. She making mashed potatoes, too?"

"Yeah. You want her to leave the lumps?"

"Nope. She makes them perfect, without the lumps. Thanks, Judge," smiled McCormick as he turned to leave. McCormick stopped by the kitchen on his way to the pool. He walked up to Sarah and gave her a gentle hug.

"What was that for?" asked Sarah. She was surprised by the hug. It seemed like a natural thing coming from Mark, but it was the first time he'd given her one.

"For everything," replied Mark as he headed out to the pool, smiling and happy to be home.