"That's good, you need to rest."

I feel like shit. My head is sore and my mouth feels like it's full of cotton-wool. Mac's hovering over me protectively, and it would be sweet if I didn't know that look. The look that screams "you moron!" at the same time as wanting to protect and care for me. I dislike this look on Mac because a) I'm not a moron, and b) she is so unpredictable when she gets like this. Actually, she's unpredictable in general, but when she's in this mood, there's no telling what she'll do. I'll be honest, I feel bad about doing this to her. For putting her through hell with Brian Brenner standing around the newsroom like an oaf, and then again when she found me in my apartment. I have been informed (very loudly and angrily) by Charlie (though I'm assuming his anger was more out of concern than actual rage) that Mackenzie, Lonnie and the Doorman of my building were the first to find me, splattered in my own blood and passed out on the floor of my bathroom, a tattered and bloody roll of toilet-paper still dripping above my head.

I'm broken from my reverie of misery and self-pity by Mac repeatedly whacking me on the head with Brenner's article. As if it hadn't already caused me enough pain. Raising my arms in defence, I attempt to quell her sudden rage with a verbal retort, but apparently she won't be swayed from her violent outburst. Helpless, I defend myself the best way I know how: with sarcasm.

"I appreciate your patience!"

"Get back in bed!"

Realisation strikes me like lightning – I am Nina's first source, and (more importantly) Mac didn't hear my confession that night. In front of me, Mac looks awestruck at the thought that her phone could possibly have been hacked. But it explains everything. Of course, she's now indignant and commanding me back into bed – though that's probably more to do with the fact that I've ripped out my IVs than her phone being hacked. Being wrapped up in the moment, I hardly feel the head-rush and black spots dancing at the edge of my vision – I barely register the nausea and dizziness. Of course, I really should pay more attention to that, or I might end up injuring myself further.

Striding into the newsroom, I feel Mac's hand steadying my arm and I feel reassured. The minute we enter the newsroom, her hand releases mine, and I know that it's because she's trying to show the staff that I can support myself – that I am strong enough to start work. Grinning stupidly as the staff erupts into cheers and claps, I can't help the chuckles that bubble through my lips. Beside me, Mac joins in with the rest of the staff, and I finally feel the atmosphere that Mac is always harping on about. I feel that we are a family, and I am ready to do anything to defend and protect them.

I will do anything in my power to keep our baby – mine and Mac's – on the air and with the staff that we have so painstakingly trained. They are my family.

"Cut the film."

Hey guys! Thanks for your patience, and thank you so much for your kind reviews, follows and favourites, I really appreciate it! I'd especially like to thank Sueg5123, Taylor, Rachelhellehr16 and Guest for their kind reviews last chapter - it really means a lot to me that you took the time to review :)
I hope you enjoyed this chapter, and if you did, please leave a review! Aside from that, this chapter marks the end of Season One and I am currently in the process of writing/editing the corresponding chapters to Season Two's episodes :)