"Hi Eric, it's Horatio. Speed's with me," Horatio spoke as they entered the hospital room. Realizing as they entered that Eric had temporarily lost his hearing, the redhead signed what he'd just said.
"How's Christi?" Eric spoke. He just hoped his voice sounded normal. Not being able to hear it was scary and frustrating.
"She's in a coma and isn't doing very well. The next 48-72 hours are critical," Speed signed tears filling his eyes. Holding out a hand, Eric coaxed his lover closer. Speed accepted the comfort and clung to Eric's hand. Deciding to give them some privacy Horatio said his goodbyes to Eric before making his way back to the ICU to sit with Christi if the nurse's would allow it. XXXX
"She's a fighter, she's going to be fine," Eric assured his lover.
"I hope so," Speed said softly. "Now, let's focus on you. How are you?" he signed.
"I'm okay," Eric replied automatically. Giving him a hard look Speed shook his head. He didn't believe that Eric was fine for a moment.
"Tell me the truth, Speed demanded.
"Okay, fine, I'm scared. What if I never regain my hearing? What in the world am I going to do?" Eric asked as he started to cry. Silently Speed gathered his lover into his arms and began trying to soothe him.
After a few minutes Speed pulls back and grabs a pen and piece of paper and write down.
'Then we'll do what my doctors and everyone did for me. Get you hearing aids and teach you more ASL."
Eric nods and sighs. XXXX
"Of course you can sit with her Mr. Caine, but just until visiting hours are through."
"Can't I stay the night with her? Please?" he begs.
Truth be told he didn't want to leave her alone for the night. He wanted to be with her every second and keep her company.
She thinks for a moment and nods.
"Sure, Lt. Caine, you can stay the night with her. Maybe it will do her some good. I'll come in later and check on her."
She had been sexually assaulted and the team had found her rapist so she was grateful for them
"Thank you." He says heading into her room and sitting next to her and taking her hand into his.
