Joyful Jockey Jules, JAMfest, Jaw, Jolts, Jilted Joan, Jittery, Joints, Jaundice & Jellyfish
Jules's Home
Jules's lay cuddled next to Sam. Her world was right and no longer jumbled. It had been two weeks since what they all referred to as the Toth Inquisition had ended. It had been a year of every action on and off the clock being judged. But now they were no longer in jeopardy of being fired or transferred. Sam and she could date openly and the Boss had decided to stay with them. Everything was so right with their world.
She listened to Sam's heartbeat. She could lay here all day doing this. They were so happy. Jules had never seen Sam smile as often as he had since they were cleared to date openly. It was like he was a man renewed.
In some ways she was a woman renewed too. Spike and the whole team had joked a lot with them about being too smiley to be on SRU. She smiled again at the thought. But what wasn't there to smile about. She got to be with the man she loved and with the team she loved. Joy filled her heart.
It was still early. Sam wanted to take a jog this morning but if she woke him now they would have time for a little JAMfest this morning. Jules crawled over him and started placing slow sensual kisses along his jawline. His stubble prickled her. She loved the look of the stubble but not the feel. He shaved more often just for her. God she loved this man.
Sam awoke feeling Jules on him. They had slept naked last night too satiated to bother getting dressed. His body loved the feel of Jules on him. The feathery light kisses Jules was placing on his jaw sent jolts to his nether region. He was up in more than one way now.
In his sleepy aroused voice he moaned an elongated soft "Jules."
Sam let Jules direct their joining this morning. She was the jockey and he the horse. Her kisses guided him as a bit in a horse's mouth. She seated herself then took him from a walk, to a trot, then a canter and finally for a long gallop. He was well-ridden and fully spent when they both cried out and his beautiful jockey collapsed onto him.
They lay entwined for a long while as Jules again lavished his jaw with soft kisses.
Sam languidly said "Jules you can be my jockey any day. God what a jaunty way to wake up."
Jules stopped her kisses and looked into his eyes "You fill me with such joy. I just had to show you."
"Oh you showed me. You showed me sooooo well. I could wake every day like that and die a happy, happy man" Sam smiled his eyes bright with love only for Jules.
Jules leaned down and kissed his lips then said "It's time to get up if you still want to go for that jog."
"Yeah I have too. Ed's expecting me to beat out Jordon, the triathlon nut, on Team Five in the upcoming annual team games" Sam said shifting them so he could rise. As he slid off the bed he instantly missed the direct connection with her body.
He leaned down and kissed her "I think I'm addicted to you. Already I'm having withdrawals from not touching you. Next thing you know I'm gonna get all jittery." Sam shook his hands as he headed for the dresser. "See it's happening already."
Jules laughed and it was a joyful laugh. She got out of bed and padded over to him. Going on tippy-toes she wrapped her arms around his neck. He leaned down and they kissed again. Parting from his lips Jules said "I'll be your antidote any day."
Releasing his neck and stepping to the side she lightly smacked his bare flank. "You better get a move on if you are gonna get that run in. We can't be late for shift." Then headed for the bathroom to shower.
Sam smiled as the morning imagery of Jules atop him reasserted itself as he dressed in his lightweight sweats and t-shirt. He called out to the bathroom just before heading down the steps "Be back in about thirty minutes."
Then he padded down the stairs and out the door. He stopped to lock and rearm the security system. Then Sam was off for his routine run in the park.
Park
It was peaceful in the park at this time of day. Not many people ran this early. There were a dedicated few. He had given them nicknames.
First and most impressive was 'Making Progress'. When he had first seen the man he had to be near four hundred pounds. In the past year the man had dropped nearly a hundred.
Then there was 'Steamroller'. He felt the path was his. He had no manners and if two people were running side by side, like he and Jules did occasionally. He would push between them instead of going around them to pass.
The last regular at this time of day was 'Specs'. The guy wore a different pair of glasses every few weeks. He must be either very klutzy or just loved glasses.
The only female that ran at this hour he actually knew her name. It was Joan. More often than not she would appear at some time during his run and they would chat a minute or two. He first met her almost a year ago when she had taken a tumble and hurt her knee. He had carried her to her house near the entrance he came into the park and made sure she was okay.
Over the past year Joan shared with him she worked for Austin Pharmaceuticals in the research lab. He had been impressed. She had been impressed that he worked with SRU. But mostly they chatted about the weather or other general topics you would with an acquaintance.
Sam noticed her coming up behind him. She always seemed to be running fast but slowed to his pace when she approached.
Joan had seen him alone again this morning. She liked it when he was alone and not running with that teammate of his. Almost a year ago she staged her little fall intending to meet him. She had watched him run by her house every day for two weeks before she got up the courage to do that.
Eight months ago she had gotten up the courage again to ask subtly if they were dating. He emphatically said no. They were just teammates and dating was not allowed. She had smiled at that.
For eight months now she had tried to get him to take more notice of her. She had bought skimpy running attire. Which he never commented on. She had tried to engage him in conversation but he always stuck to bland things like the weather. If she asked anything personal he changed the subject.
She was getting frustrated. It was to the point that she had worked up the courage to actually take that first step and ask him out. Today would be the day. He was not running with that little mousy brown haired teammate.
"Morning Sam" Joan said a little breathless. She only ever jogged when she saw him. She hated jogging. But hey, a girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do to find a good honest man. A cop would be an honest rule abiding man.
Sam glanced over and said "Morning Joan." He let his attention go back to his breathing because he really needed to train to beat triathlon Jordon.
He was ignoring her today. Sam was doing that a lot lately as he trained for that SRU competition. She didn't like it. "Hey Sam can you stop for a second?" she asked in her sweetest voice.
Oh well training shot to hell he thought. He looked at Joan and came to a halt "What ya need Joan?"
Joan smiled her sexiest smile and flipped her long blonde hair back. An effect that she used often on men to get what she wanted. And right now she wanted Sam Braddock. Gathering her courage she asked "I was wondering if you would like to go out with me some time? Like on a date."
Stunned Sam only looked at her for a moment. Did he give the impression he was available? God he hoped not, Jules would kill him. He gathered himself quickly "I'm flattered Joan, really I am. But I'm sorry I'm in a serious relationship."
He saw the disappointment and a small flash of anger cross her face. It settled on disappointment as she said "That's one lucky woman."
"Nah, I'm the lucky one. Jules is the best" Sam said as a lopsided grin played on his mouth as he recalled how Jules woke him this morning.
Joan blinked hard "Wait, isn't that your teammate?" Sam nodded. "I thought you were not allowed to date teammates."
Sam admitted "Technically no. But we've proven to the brass that we can be professional and still date."
Angry but curious she asked "How'd you do that?"
He was uncomfortable discussing the details with an acquaintance so he gave a vague answer "They just saw we did our job with no change over the past several months. I gotta get going Joan. Nice talking with you. See ya around." He waved and headed off.
Joan stood there pissed off now. He had had been dating her for months. Every time he flirted with her he was already dating her. This man she thought was an honest good man was no better than all the other men she had ever known. She wasted the last year on him and he turned out to be a liar and total jerk. He was a miserable JERK.
She turned back towards her home and walked in a huff. She felt jolted, jarred and jerked around by his admission. In a way she felt jilted. Her anger rose as she got closer to home. She had been played and jerked around one to many times. This time she would get even with a jerk. Joan slammed her door on the way in. She knew just how to do it.
Next Morning – Park
Joan watched for him and let him run passed her house. She waited two minutes then headed out. She ran fast to catch up. Cheerily she said "Morning Sam. Great weather for a run."
Sam glanced at Joan. She seemed her old self this morning. He felt bad yesterday. He had spoken to Jules about it and she said to not be surprised if Joan never spoke to him again. That she would likely feel jilted putting herself out there like that and being rejected. Sam almost scoffed out loud but knew that would earn him a jab so kept his mouth shut.
But he couldn't see how she would feel jilted. He had never paid her anything but common courtesy; as he would with anyone. Sam was glad she was being pleasant and returned her greeting with a smile "Morning Joan. Sure is."
Joan tripped and went to the ground. Sam stopped immediately "Joan are you alright?" He knelt next to her.
She smiled and brushed off her knee with one hand. "I'm fine. Just being uncoordinated this morning."
Joan reached out her hand to him in a manner asking for help up. Sam took her hand and rose as he helped her up. "You sure you are okay?"
Testing her leg a bit she grabbed for his arm in a show of steadying herself. Then she said "Yeah I'm sure. But I think I'll call it quits today." She took a tentative step and faltered.
Sam was at her side in a flash worried she had done real damage to her knee again. He smiled "How about a repeat of the way we met?" He stood waiting for her response.
Joan flashed him a bashful smile "No you don't have to do that. I'll manage."
"I insist. Can't leave a damsel in distress" he teased.
With a show of contemplation and reluctant acceptance she said "If you insist."
Sam picked her up holding her back and under her knees. Joan put her arm around him with her hand the back of his neck. They walked a few feet when Sam felt a prick or pinch on his neck.
Joan saw him flinch she said "I'm sorry it my ring must have hit your neck. I have this one prong that is very sharp. I've been meaning to take it to the jewelers to get it fixed." She pulled her hand around and showed him. Then said "Sorry."
Sam winced at the almost needle like prong and quickly pushed thoughts of 'there' away. Reaching her door he set her down. "No worries. Take care. I gotta get back to it I've only got time for a short run today. Can't be late for work."
She smiled "Thanks again for the lift." As she closed the door she grinned again and took off the ring tossing it into the bowl on the table by the door.
One Week Later – Park
Sam cringed when he heard Joan calling out "Good Morning Sam." It seemed every day this past week she arrived and interrupted his training. It was beginning to irritate him. Not that she wasn't pleasant, it was just that Ed was breathing down his neck asking how his training was going. If he was honest training was sucking big time.
In a less than happy voice Sam said "Morning Joan." He did not break his stride trying to focus on his breathing and not his joints that seemed to ache today.
He chalked it up to yesterday. It had been a hell of a long day. They had three long standoffs with one spectacular chase through downtown traffic on foot. The one car that barely stopped in time he had done a roll off the hood. The subject finally went down in a blaze of glory so to speak when he ran into the street performer who was juggling fire batons.
The subject should have stopped or paid attention to the skateboard lying on the ground. He smiled at the image of the man stepping on the skateboard and then flying into the performer and the fiery batons landing on either side of him. The man's girly scream could rival Spike's. Which by the way everyone pointed out a lot yesterday much to Spike's dismay. He took Spike out for a beer last night to apologize for all the teasing. They were good.
He was ignoring her again. So she said "I made you something. It's a power bar recipe that my old boyfriend Keller used to make. He did triathlons and swore by them. You aren't allergic to any nuts are you?"
Sam glanced at her "No but Jules is." He kicked himself for that comment. It just popped into his head and then out of his mouth.
Smiling Joan said "Oh then she better not touch or eat any of them. They are loaded with all kinds of nuts. Walnuts mostly. Some almonds, pinenuts and peanuts. It has granola and oatmeal and a few raisins too among other things."
She handed a small baggie with four bars in it over to him as she kept pace with him. "No more than two a day though. It has a full serving of a protein powder in each bar."
Sam took the bag and said thanks. He was about to put them in his pocket when she said "Why don't you try a bite now. If you like them I can make you more or give you the recipe. Maybe Jules will make you some."
He obliged and took one out slowing a bit to take a bite. He chewed. They were tasty. He loved walnuts and it had a strong walnut flavor. He took another bite and said sincerely "Thank you Joan. They taste good. Yeah the recipe would be nice."
Joan smiled "Glad you like them." She slowed down and put a hand to her side. Sam looked back. She waved him on and called out "Go on. Just a little winded today. Think I'll head back."
Sam nodded kept running.
She watched him run. She thought you can run but you can't get away from me. Joan turned and walked back home. She was getting more of a workout lately than she wanted.
One Week Later – SRU HQ – Field
"Come on Sam pick up the pace. You got lead in your pants or something? You are way off your time today" Ed yelled as he timed Sam for annual requals.
Sam was sweating. He was trying but he was so achy. Every joint hurt today again, as it had for the past week. In the past few days he could add a headache that wouldn't go away and an intermittent tingling and numbness. Oh and let's not forget the throbbing pain that occasionally shot up his legs or arms and a few skipped heartbeats.
The heartbeats were actually noticed by Jules. She was very attuned to his heartbeat. This morning she looked at him seriously and said "Sam you need to go to the doctor. Your beat pattern is different, off somehow."
He had gotten irate with her and stormed out of the house. He had grabbed his bike and rode to work. The ride in had been a killer. He was tired when he arrived. But he would not admit that to anyone.
Lately his mood had been surly. He chalked it up to dealing with the constant joint pain. Sam poured on some speed digging deep into his reserves. He crossed the finish line and bent over breathing heavily. It was hard to catch his breath.
Spike came up to him "Buddy you doing okay?"
Sam bit his head off "Fine I'm doing Fine."
Backing off putting his hands up in front Spike said "Whoa. Is that fine as in fine or fine as in F.I.N.E. Because if it is the latter I want to help and if it is the former what the hell is your problem?"
Grabbing his water bottle and downing half Sam pulled himself together "Sorry. Just pissed at my time."
Ed called out "Well if you ladies are done chatting the rest of us are waiting for you to join us in the shoot house."
Sam downed the second half of the water and grabbed his paintball gun. He jogged to the shoot house with Spike next to him.
Spike teased "I thought it might be a fight with the little missus. Jules has been staring daggers at you all morning."
"Shut up Spike" Sam said in a surly manner and jogged ahead of him.
Watching Sam go Spike was worried. Something was off. Way off with Sam for several weeks now. It started slow but his whole attitude was almost churlish. He looked at Jules and caught that she was covertly observing Sam too. Something was up.
He wasn't sure what but he was gonna find out because in all the years and all the trials Sam had been through he never once behaved this way. Well that's not quite right. There was the time he got churlish when he was sick just before they went to Wanderlust Lodge.
But this went beyond that. Sam was off physically too. What was he hiding? He thought Sam was done hiding things from them. Well he wouldn't let him get away with it this time.
SRU HQ – Outside Shoot House
Arriving at the shoot house Spike turned his attention to Ed.
"Alright so individually you each will go through the shoot house. You will be scored on your time and accuracy. Clear all four floors of ten targets and rappel from the roof when you are done. Any questions?" Ed instructed and asked.
Raf asked "So what's the time to beat?"
Ed grinned "That would be three minutes forty nine seconds."
Raf whistled "Man, let me guess Sam holds it."
"Nope Jules. She beat out Sam last year. Still a little pissed about that Samo?" Ed asked.
Sam glared at Ed but said "Jules is exceptional."
Ed called them up one by one to run the shoot house.
Sam stood there waiting for his turn with aching joints trying to ignore the headache and tingling numbness in his hands. Jules was probably right he should see a doctor. But thoughts of Wordy came to mind and he was not ready to face anything that catastrophic so he chose to just pretend nothing was wrong with him. He knew it was stupid but he just could not face it if something was wrong.
He grabbed a water bottle and pulled one of the protein bars out of the baggie. Joan kept making him the power bars. He put the baggie back and munched on it as he drank another full bottle of water. Two days after she gave him the first few Joan brought him more saying that she enjoyed baking but never got an opportunity since everyone she knew was on a diet. She said she was having fun and it was her way of saying thank you for carrying her home twice. Joan continued to make them and he enjoyed them so he accepted them.
With the way he felt lately he could use a little extra protein he thought. Sam grabbed the baggie out again and got a second one and downed it quickly. He put the empty baggie into his bag. Joan had said she would bring him more tomorrow.
Sam watched everyone go through the shoot house. Their times were good. Jules was only off last years' time by fifteen seconds because there was a snag with her rappelling line. She looked pissed. He would be too. Just like he was at his less than stellar mile run a few minutes ago. Tonight he might just stay at his apartment. Two pissed off SRU officers in the same location was never good. Especially if it was him and Jules.
"Samo you're up next. Got a shot at regaining your record. Just don't slack off like you did on the mile run" Ed said.
Sam held his tongue. Part of him wanted to yell 'I'd like to see you do better feeling like shit, every joint aching, hard to breathe and the feeling that your legs were gonna give out at any moment Ed'. But he didn't. He simply took his start position without saying a single word.
Ed watched Sam closely. He had everyone go before him to give him an opportunity to rest. Sam was so far off his mile run time it wasn't funny. Something was wrong. Sam hid things well. But whatever he was trying to hide was sending out a beacon in his scores and his attitude. He bit Spike's head off for just asking if he was okay. Sam never did that.
He glanced at Jules. It had been four weeks since they were given the green light to date openly. Was there trouble in paradise? Ed was afraid that something like that might happen. He would watch to make sure it did not affect the team.
Ah hell if it was that it was affecting the team because Sam was not up to snuff lately. He had noticed Sam was slower getting to his Sierra positions. Raf and Spike and even Jules were beating him to take down subjects that ran.
Maybe he was overtraining for the annual team competition. He had joked a lot about how he expected Sam to best Jordon. Maybe Sam was putting too much pressure on himself over it. Ed got the signal from Greg that the shoot house was reset "Samo. Get ready, Set. Go" he clicked the timer and watched Sam head into the shoot house.
SRU HQ – Inside Shoot House
Sam moved quickly but not so smoothly through the first floor eliminating three targets. He felt the jittery feeling more intensely and his hand shook when aiming. Moving up to the second floor was painful as his joints protested loudly climbing the stairs. He began to sweat profusely. His heart rate was uneven.
On the second floor he barely hit the two targets in the kill zone. When did it get so hot in here he thought as he stumbled up the stairs to the third floor. He leaned heavily on a wall a moment as a wave of dizziness hit him and his heart thudded out of rhythm. Moving hurt his joints were on fire now. Slowly he cleared the floor it hurt too much to move fast. He took out one target and headed up to the fourth floor.
He barely made it up the steps. On the fourth floor throbbing pain radiated up his left arm. Sam tried to fire but his hands were so jittery. They shook in sync with the uneven heart beats. He finally fired at the remaining four targets. His shots went wide and off target as the shaking and numbness worsened.
How he made it to the roof he was not sure. He was having a lot of trouble breathing now. His heart beat erratically. He felt so jittery. His whole body was now shaking not just his hands. Sam could not move due to the pain in his joints they felt welded together in fiery pain. He had never felt this much pain all over. He was scared. What the hell was happening to him?
They were not wearing headsets. No one heard him as he called out "Help." Sam had tried to yell but it came out as a soft gasp as his breath was taken from him.
Sam collapsed. On his way down his jaw struck the edge of the cement wall.
The team heard the last shot and waited to see Sam come over the roof to rappel down. Ed had been watching the clock and was concerned. It had taken five minutes for Sam to clear the ten targets. He waited a full minute after the last shot thinking he might have trouble with the rappelling line like Jules did. But when he didn't show at the roof edge Ed started running and shouting "Sam? Sam!"
The others ran after Ed when there was no return answer from Sam.
Ed skidded to a halt on the roof and was on his knees next to Sam in under a minute. He shouted at the top of his lungs "Greg call EMS NOW!"
As Ed started to gently and carefully roll Sam onto his back several hands appeared to help. Jules gasped at the bloody contusion on Sam's jaw. She ripped off her gloves and felt for a pulse "Erratic all over the place" Jules called out.
Spike was unfastening the vest "He's having trouble breathing we need to get this off."
Greg called out "EMS will be here in a few minutes. Raf go wait out front for them and lead them back here." Raf was off like a shot.
Ed pierced Jules with a stare and demanded harshly "What is he hiding?"
Jules glared back and bit out bitterly "I don't know. I only heard a slight offness of his heart beat this morning. I asked him to get it checked out and he stormed out and rode his bike here. He's been so tired lately. We've all seen it I'm sure. I don't know what's wrong. But it's gotten worse for the past few week."
Greg knelt down and put a hand on Jules "Try to calm down Jules."
Sam's eyes fluttered open. He was staring up at the sky. It disoriented him for a moment. Then all the physical ailments flooded back into his consciousness. He groaned.
Jules demanded "Sam Braddock you tell me what's wrong and tell me now! No more secrets remember."
Sam focused on Jules "Hurt … joints on fire. … hard breathe … numb … tingle … … …" Sam was having trouble getting it all out. "Headache … … … heart wrong … pain … … all … … … over. … … … … … … … jaw … … … … joints … … … hurt bad … … … … … … … … … " Sam closed his eyes.
"Sam Braddock you stay with me. Stay with me" Jules commanded.
Sam's eyes blinked open again. His jittery hands shook as he clawed at his chest trying to regain control of his breathing and heart rate.
Ed said "How long have you felt this?"
"Joints ... … … few … … … weeks … … … … got … worse … … … today … … … … so tired … … dizzy … … … can't … … … … … … breathe … … …hurts" Sam got out between ragged hard fought breaths.
His eyes locked with Jules and she could read he was scared, very scared. Never had she seen that look before in his eyes when it related to him. She reached out and brushed his hair as she softly said "Hush now. Rest. Concentrate on breathing. You will be okay. The paramedics are on the way."
Sam listened and tried to get his breathing to cooperate but it was so hard. It was impossible to regulate it. As he shook his body felt like it was on fire and his heart thudded erratically. He would have screamed in pain but he didn't have the breath to do so.
The paramedics ran forward. Ed and Jules gave them an accounting of what Sam told them. Then all five stood back and watched as the medics fitted Sam with a heart monitor and oxygen. The monitor beeped wildly. They saw Sam lose consciousness again. Jules turned into Spike and he held her.
Ed stood stunned and to no one particular he questioned "What the hell happened? What the hell is wrong with him?"
Then Ed started to pace on the roof top as worry and concern raged in him. What did he miss? Why didn't he notice? Wait he noticed. Why the hell didn't he confront Sam about it? Why? If he had maybe Sam would not be in the shape he was in now.
Jules held onto Spike. Tears dripped down. Why didn't she say something to Ed or the Boss today? If she had they would have forced him to go get checked out. Why? Why? She knew why.
Because they kept their personal life separate from SRU. Their disagreements and private knowledge of each other gained by being together didn't mean they could rat out the other to their bosses. Teammates at SRU and lovers at home. That's how they could maintain the priority of life code. That separation was necessary.
But she wished she had convinced him to go get checked out. She never should have let him storm away from her. God dammit Sam! You should have told me. You should have told me!
Spike held Jules. He felt the shudders roll through her as she silently cried. He held her because it was the only thing he could do. He knew something was up for a while now. Why didn't he pursue it earlier? Why? God Sam could barely breathe. Spike watched as the medics started to wheel Sam towards the stairs. It was all in slow motion and the words of the medics said were unintelligible. Time slammed back to normal speed as the medics entered the building.
"Boss we gotta go" Spike said.
Greg rubbed his face briskly. This was training. What the hell happened to him? Greg nodded. Today was only training and eval they were not on shift "Give me your weapons and go. Go. I'll inform Holleran and be right behind you."
They all handed Greg their paint ball guns and headed down and out of the shoot house. None stopped to get their bags as they raced for their cars.
Five Hours Later – Hospital – ICU Waiting Room
No one had spoken in the last three hours. Ever since the nurse told them Sam had been moved to ICU. They had moved silently to the elevator and taken it to the ICU floor and entered the waiting room. The nurse had said a doctor would meet them there when they had news.
The door opened and Dr. Fraser stepped in followed by another doctor. Dr. Fraser waited until they gathered around "This is Dr. Hammond. Sam is in his care. I'll let him explain the current situation."
Dr. Hammond took in the group of concerned faces "As Dr. Fraser said I am in charge of Sam's care."
Jules asked "Excuse me but why you and not Dr. Fraser. Dr. Fraser you are so familiar with Sam. Why the change?"
Dr. Fraser softened his voice "Jules Dr. Hammond is a specialist. I called him in specifically to help Sam."
Spike asked "Specialist in what area?"
Dr. Fraser answered "His specialty is toxicology. I called him when some routine blood tests came back with strange results. His test showed a high level of a methamphetamine like substance …"
Incredulous Ed angrily yelled "Sam is doing Speed?"
Dr. Fraser tried to interject but Ed ranted "Of all the stupid dumbass things he could do. DRUGS. What hell is he thinking?"
Jules stared dumbfounded at Ed then yelled "Sam is NOT doing drugs. I would know."
Ed turned and glared at her "You heard the doctor. Sam has methamphetamine in his system. Are you so sure?"
She slugged Ed in the stomach hard "YES!"
Ed bent over in pain.
Greg and Spike separated them.
Dr. Hammond gaped at them. Dr. Fraser rushed to say into the silence afford by Ed being out of air "As I was saying I found a methamphetamine LIKE substance. His blood test showed very strange levels. That is why I called in Dr. Hammond. Now if you will let him speak he can give you more information."
Jules's attention riveted on Dr. Hammond along with the others waiting for him to speak.
Dr. Hammond cleared his throat. These people were intense to say the least. "As Dr. Fraser indicated Sam's blood tests are way off. I have drawn more blood and taken urine samples and sent them out to a special lab for processing. I don't have any specific answers for you right now but from the tests the hospital performed it appears that Sam may have been poisoned somehow. Until I know what it is I cannot counteract it. Right now we are doing all we can just to keep him alive."
Jules gasped and her hand flew to her mouth "Poisoned?"
"Are you sure?" Ed asked.
Spike staggered back to the chair and slumped down into it. Sam was poisoned? "How? Why? WHO?"
Greg picked up on the last statement "Keeping him alive?"
Dr. Fraser looked to Greg and thought, always the calmest one. He said "Yes we are doing what we can. We are having a devil of a time stabilizing his heartrate and breathing. I fear at some point we may have to intubate him."
Worried Jules asked "When you get the tests back will you be able to help him?"
Dr. Hammond answered honestly "It depends on what we find. At this point I really have no clue what I'm dealing with here. His symptoms could be attributed to many things. If what I suspect is true we are dealing with a number of different chemical compounds."
"How long until you get the test results?" Ed asked rubbing his stomach. He felt like a complete ass for his previous outburst. Jules was well within her rights to punch him. Hell he'd allow her to punch him indefinitely if it would help Sam.
"Unfortunately it will take at least two days for the first tests to come back. I cannot give him anything until then because I cannot be sure of the drug interactions. It would help if we could find what he was poisoned with" Dr. Hammond answered.
Wanting to help but needing a starting point Spike asked "How was he poisoned?"
Dr. Hammond shook his head "Could be any number of ways, injected, ingested, inhaled or topical. I have taken swabs from his hands and mouth and sent those for testing too. I did not find any injection marks so that is unlikely."
Moving into investigation mode Jules said "Injection not likely at all. Sam does not like needles. Is this a one-time thing or is it something that happened over time? We've all seen that Sam seemed to be off his game over the past week or so."
Considering that statement carefully Dr. Hammond answered "Again I can't be sure until I see the results. But if you say he has been showing signs for a few weeks I'd lean towards small ongoing doses of whatever we are dealing with. Has anything changed? Has he started using new shampoo, deodorant, or lotions? Has his routine changed? Has he gone repeatedly to a new place? Has his diet changed? Anything you can think of might help us find the source."
All the guys turned to Jules. She blew out a breath. "I need to think on that and write things down. But first can I see him?"
Dr. Fraser softly smiled "Yes but I have to warn you. He is in and out of it. Sam is in pain but I cannot give him anything for it like Dr. Hammond said there may be interactions. You will see lots of jerky, jittery movements. We have him on oxygen but his levels are not good. Try to refrain from making him talk. If you have to ask question please keep it to things that might help us find out what we are dealing with. I can allow two at a time."
Greg said "Jules and I will go first."
Jules stated flatly "I'm not leaving his side."
Ed placed an arm around her and hugged her "I didn't think so. I'm sorry for my outburst Jules. Truly I am. I know Sam better than that."
Jules hugged him back "I know. Just don't let it happen again or else it won't just be a punch to the stomach. It will be someplace much more painful, for guys."
Ed laughed and backed away hands in front of his crouch "Duly noted. I don't want to experience what Nicholas did. Poor man couldn't walk straight for a few days."
They all chuckled lightly recalling how Jules took down Nicholas with one spinning roundhouse kick to the groin when he and Aaron talked badly about Sam.
Hospital – Sam's ICU Room
Jules and Greg entered the room. Jules had to hold back the tears at what she saw. Sam was lying in the bed. His nose and mouth covered with an oxygen mask. His breath sounds were ragged and labored as Sam struggled for each one.
The purplish bruise and red abrasion on his jaw stood out starkly from his pale and waxy complexion. His hair was matted down and sweaty. Beads of sweat pooled on his forehead until enough gathered then ran in rivulets down the sides of his face.
Sam's body and hands jerked and twitched. The heart monitor jumped erratically and missed beats unevenly. They had hung an IV to keep him from getting dehydrated.
Greg placed a supportive hand on her back as they moved forward into to room.
Taking Sam's hand in hers Jules softly said "I'm here Sam. You fight this. I know you can fight it. You are the strongest man I know."
Sam's eyes flittered open. So much pain. So much. Sam gasped out "Jules … … … hurts … … … … … stop … … … pain … … … … … … please" his eyes begged as tears leaked from his eyes and ran down unchecked.
Jules sobbed "Oh god Sam I would if I could baby. They can't give you anything. They think you were poisoned and until they know what it is they can't give you anything."
"hurts … … … … want … … … die … … … hurts … … … … too … … … … much" Sam tried to say.
Jules looked at him with soft doe eyes as tears slipped down unheeded but her voice was steely as she commanded "No. No you are not going to die. You hang on. You can't die. I won't let you. I need you. Don't let go, I can't live without you."
Blinking his eyes several times Sam rasped out "sorry … … … … I … … made … … … you … … … … cry."
Sam slipped unconscious again his hand going limp in Jules's hand. She sobbed loudly.
Greg held her close "Hush. Shush. He's gonna fight."
In choked sobs Jules said "He wants to die. It hurts so bad he wants to die. Oh god. Who would do this to him? Who?"
Shaking his head Greg answered "I don't know but were gonna find out. You need to pull it together for Sam. You know him best. We need your help to figure this out."
Wiping her eyes Jules looked up at him. Hicupping at first but her resolution growing as she spoke Jules said "You're right. I don't have time to cry. I need some paper and a pen to start making a list of things that might be different. If we can find who did this to him maybe we can find what it was that they poisoned him with and maybe there is an antidote."
"That's my brave girl. I'll go get some and send them in with Ed" Greg responded. He turned to an unconscious Sam and said "You hang on. We're gonna find who did this to you." Then with one last hug for Jules he headed out.
Ed showed up a few minutes later with pen and a small notepad. "Greg said you needed these. Has Sam woken up again?"
Sitting down in the chair she said "No thank god. At least when he's unconscious he is not in pain."
Ed nodded. Greg told them all what Sam said. It tore at his heart to know that Sam hurt so badly he begged for them to stop the pain and he wanted to die. There was only one other time he had heard Sam beg for relief from pain. Once was more than enough.
Standing next to the bed Ed quietly vowed "Sam whoever did this to you is going to pay. They will not get away with this. You fight hard to stay. I'm sorry I didn't see it sooner and make you get checked out. Forgive me please."
Ed was surprised when Sam answered without opening his eyes "nothing … … … … to … … forgive."
"Ah Samo there is. You hold on though" Ed breathed deeply and almost felt guilty about how easy his breath came as he watched Sam struggle. He turned to Jules. I'll send Raf in now. Spike wants to be last so he can stay longer.
She nodded. Her list was growing.
- Shampoo – he had switched brands about a month ago
- Coffee shop – they had been trying a new shop closer to them rather than the one by SRU.
- Chinese food place – Sam ate there often in the past few weeks. She had teased him he must be pregnant because he was craving their moo shoo pork. She normally only had a salad when he ate there
She blushed as she wrote down the next two items
- condoms – two weeks ago the store they stopped at had been out of his regular brand and they were in too much of a hurry to go to another store so he grabbed something different
- strawberry gel – on a whim he also grabbed the bottle and grinned seductively at her. He wanted to experiment and she was game. That night he slathered it all over her then kissed it off.
She smiled at the recollection. That night had been sooo good. But then she considered striking the last one because wouldn't she be affected too? But then again it had only been on her skin, Sam had ingested it. Maybe if it was that it only worked if ingested. She left it on the list.
Raf entered the room and was taken back by the sight in front of him. He felt a little awkward coming in. He was still the rookie and although he felt a member of the team, he wasn't quite family yet like the rest of them.
He nodded to Jules who looked deep in thought as she wrote things down. That must be the list of things for them to check out. He stepped close to Sam's bed and just looked. He'd never seen the strong capable man before him in this weakened state. It was hard to witness. The jerking movements of his body and wild heart monitor beeps punctuated his helpless feeling.
Raf cleared his throat "Sam I'll be there for the team. I've got their backs. You just focus on getting better. Okay man." Not knowing what else to say and feeling uncomfortable he turned to Jules "I'll get Spike."
"Thanks Raf" Jules said not lifting her head from her list. She added.
- Water bottles – it wasn't new but what if someone was deliberately poisoning them. It was a long shot but they should still check it out.
As Spike entered Jules wrote down
- power bars – Sam said Joan was making him power bars as a thank you for assisting her home after she fell. She stared this one.
Spike looked at Sam but spoke to Jules his voice wavered as if he was trying to convince himself through his words "He's gonna make it Jules. Remember he's Samtastic."
Jules looked up at Spike and his eyes were red and watery. She stood and put her arms around him. She could tell was likely thinking about when they lost Lou. That had devastated Spike. Sam had taken a place alongside Lou in Spike's heart. Sam would never replace Lou but they were equals in Spike's heart.
She spoke with conviction "He's gonna make it. I'm not gonna let him die. Neither are you. Were gonna find the person that did this and get an antidote."
Spike nodded and then they embraced giving each other strength. He finally pulled back "That your list?"
"Yeah. Will you stay with him while I go get the items so the doctors can test them?" Jules asked.
"Not going anywhere. I'll call you if anything changes" Spike answered.
Jules kissed his cheek "What would I do without you Spike?"
Spike just remained quiet and gave her a little hug again.
Jules went to Sam "I gotta go for a little bit. I gotta get some things for them to test. Spike's right here. Don't you go anywhere while I'm gone."
Sam's eyes opened and he struggled to say "staying … … … … don't … … … be … … … … … … long … … … need … … … … you"
She lightly ran her fingers through his hair. Then she wiped his forehead and then leaned down to kiss it. She wanted to kiss his lips but they were covered by the oxygen mask and he needed it too much to even lift it away for a quick kiss. She gently squeezed his hand and felt a weak response back.
Jules's Home
Greg had driven Jules and Ed to her house to gather the items. Luckily there were left overs of the moo shoo pork in the fridge from last night. She grabbed the shampoo, condoms, strawberry gel and his coffee cup from the trash from yesterday's trip to the coffee shop on their way home. She put the items in a bag with a few of the water bottles they had at home.
Ed said "You have everything on the list except the power bars."
Jules looked in the cabinet that Sam put them in. There were no more "There aren't anymore. I think he took the last two with him this morning."
Greg said "I'll call Raf and have him check Sam's bag at the barn. Is there anything else you can think of?"
Jules looked around deep in thought she went to a cabinet and pulled out a box of tea "I bought this three weeks ago but only Sam has had any of it. Also have Raf get his empty water bottles. It's a long shot because we both are drinking them from the same source."
Ed said "Better to check it all. Anything else at all that is different. Clothes, shaving cream, laundry detergent?"
Jules shook her head as her phone buzzed and she answered it "Spike what's wrong?"
[Trying not to sound frantic Spike said "Get here now. Sam stopped breathing on his own. They are intubating him."]
Jules nearly dropped her phone "Coming." She looked at Ed and Greg and whispered "We gotta go." Her voice broke "He stopped breathing."
Hospital – Sam's ICU Room
The team broke the rules. Jules, Spike, Ed and Greg were all in Sam's room. They had handed off all the items to Dr. Hammond. He said he would get them tested and had put a rush on all the blood work.
But then he said that he was sorry but he did not know how much more Sam's body could take. The doctor said Sam may not make it for as long as it took for the tests to complete. He also told them that it was unlikely he would be conscious again. Sam's systems were beginning to shut down. Besides his lungs and heart Sam's liver was his major concern. Dr. Hammond told them that as his liver shut down Sam would become jaundice, his skin and the whites of his eyes would start to turn yellow from excess bilirubin.
Jules collapsed into Spike's arms and could not stop the tears. She broke down completely. Jules was inconsolable. Sam was dying and there was nothing she could do to stop it.
Ed brought up a chair behind Spike and sat him down as Greg guided Jules into Spike's lap. Their hearts were breaking at every sob that emitted from Jules. Ed and Greg took up positions on either side of the chair and placed a hand on Spike's shoulder while Spike held and tried to comfort Jules. The room was silent except for Jules's quiet sobbing, the constant whoosh of the ventilator and the erratic beeps of the heart monitor.
Raf came into this scene. The heaviness of it crashed over him like a tidal wave nearly drowning him with the fear and sorrow that emanated from the four in the room watching Sam.
He went to Ed and tapped his shoulder lightly. Ed came out of his stupor he looked at Raf. Raf motioned for him to come out of the room with him.
Once outside Raf said "There were no power bars in Sam's bag but there was an empty baggie with a few crumbs in it. I brought it and the empty water bottles from today. I gave them to the doctor. What's the status on Sam?"
Ed pinched the bridge of his nose and blew out a breath "Good work. Sam's not good. As you saw he's on a ventilator. The doctor said things are shutting down. He doesn't know how long it will be."
Raf nodded. It wasn't what he wanted to hear. He focused his mind elsewhere. He was less affected by this being not as close to Sam. His head was clearer so he asked "Those power bars. They are the only thing that is home made. My money is on them. Sam has been eating one or two of them a day for the past few weeks. Where did he get them?"
Ed looked at Raf. It was clear logical thinking "Jules said an acquaintance they see when they run in the park."
Looking into the room and seeing Jules falling apart he knew he had to do something. Ed strode in with purpose and said firmly "Callaghan pull yourself together. Sam needs your help now not your tears."
Greg glared at him "Eddie, now is not the time."
Ed replied "Yes now is the time. We have to act fast if we want to save Sam. Jules I assume you want to save him."
Jules looked up at Ed "You have to ask that?"
"Yes I do. Now dry your tears. We have work to do. Raf made a very good point. My money is on the power bars. Who is this acquaintance that is making them and do they have any reason to harm Sam?" Ed stated all business.
Jules shifted in Spike's lap. She wiped her eyes. Ed was right. "I only know her by her first name. Joan. Sam met her about a year ago when she fell. He carried her to her home. I don't know where it is."
She stood up and paced a bit "A few weeks ago Sam told me she approached him and asked him out. He told her he was already in a relationship. He said she looked upset. I told him that Joan would likely feel jilted putting herself out there like that and being rejected."
Spike half laughed "Jilted Joan. Has a nice ring to it."
Jules rolled her eyes but patted him on the shoulder. Spike knew how to break her tension. "Yeah jilted Joan. But Sam said the next day she was cheery and normal. She fell again and he carried her home again. He had me check his neck. Sam said her ring jabbed into it and it burned and was like a prickling, stinging pain and it itched. All I saw was a small red dot that was a little swollen. The next day the swelling was gone. He said it still stung and itched. But after it few days it went away."
"The next week is when she started making him the power bars. She gave him four every couple of days. I didn't eat any because Sam said Joan had indicated there were pinenuts in them. I sometimes breakout in hives with pinenuts so didn't want to chance a reaction. He's been eating one or two every day for two weeks."
Greg said "You only know her from where you jog."
Jules nodded "In the Park."
Ed remarked "It stands to reason that she must live close to the park if Sam carried her home. Any idea where?"
Rubbing her temples and looking at Sam Jules answered "No. Sam didn't say where. I wasn't with him either time."
Spike asked "Do you know anything else about her? Anything you can remember from conversations? Anything maybe Sam shared with you."
Jules's head snapped up "Oh my god. She works for a pharmaceuticals company in the research lab. She would have access to chemicals."
"Which one?" Ed asked.
Racking her brain trying to remember Jules was coming up empty. Shaking her head "I don't know."
Spike stood up. I need my computer. I can run a search of the surrounding neighborhood of the park and look for any owner with the first name Joan. Once we get a list then we can contact the pharmaceutical companies and try and match a name."
Greg patted Spike's shoulder "Good thought." He turned to Jules "Stay with Sam. Ed, Spike, Raf and I are heading in to the barn. Call us if you remember anything more. Or if you need us for any reason."
Jules nodded. Part of her wanted to go with them but most of her could not leave Sam. If the end came she did not want him to be alone. She should hold his hand and tell him she was with him all the way to the end. And if that happened then she would curl up next to him and die inside.
SRU HQ – Briefing Room
The guys were seated around the table as Spike was working. They had suited up in full tact gear again ready for action.
Commander Holleran strode in "I just spoke with the General. He is contacting the hospital to get direct updates. Damn I feel for that man. Never close when his son is injured or ill. Mrs. Braddock is out on the next flight. It will be a day before she gets here. How are you progressing?"
Greg reported "Spike is running the names of owners. But a large percentage of the homes around that park are rentals. Ed and Raf are contacting the owners to get the names of the renters to try and find a match."
Holleran nodded "I'll pull in Team Four they can assist. The faster we find this person the faster we can determine if she is responsible. If she is then …"
Greg shook his head in agreement "Then hopefully we can find out what Sam was poisoned with and the doctors can counteract it."
Holleran left and short time later Team Four came into the briefing room in pairs as they arrived from patrolling duties. Spike doled out owner names in chunks of ten per person. When he was done he and Greg began a second prong approach.
They went directly to the four pharmaceutical companies. They spoke with the CEO's and two of the four were very cooperative and promised to send their employee lists to Spike. The other two said they could not give out the employee list but if they had a specific name they would be able to confirm if the person worked for them. It was the best that Greg and Spike could do without a warrant.
Spike then started a third approach setting up a search program looking at social media sites looking for a combination of Joan, pharmaceuticals, research and Toronto.
His computer pinged him and he saw he had gotten the employee list from JMR Pharmaceuticals. He began a quick search and found a Joan Mallory. But she worked in accounting not the research lab. There was a picture of her so he quickly sent it to Jules with a text 'is this Joan?'
Hospital – Sam's ICU Room
Jules phone buzzed and she saw a new text. She pulled it up and looked at the picture and message from Spike. She frowned as she texted back 'no'.
She took the cool washcloth and wiped Sam's brow. "Hang on baby. They guys are working hard. We may have a lead. I just need you to keep fighting and not give up. Fight for me. Fight for us."
She kissed his forehead just as Dr. Hammond and a nurse entered. The nurse set about drawing more blood. Jules asked "More tests?"
Dr. Hammond answered "Yes we are watching his liver function very carefully." He smiled at her "Dr. Fraser assures me that Samtastic will surprise me. That he is hearty and pulls through when the odds are against him. I'm praying for that in this case too."
Jules smiled at hearing the doctor use Sam's nickname. Sam had another doctor in his corner now. She wasn't religious but it didn't hurt that the doctor was praying for Sam. She said "He's full of surprises. If anyone can pull through it will be him. Any word on the tests you sent out."
He shook his head "As I said they take time. They are the first priority at the lab but it will still be tomorrow before I have even the preliminary results."
The doctor then checked Sam's vitals and left.
Jules looked at the text again then had an idea she sent Spike a text. 'Send a sketch artist to me. If you don't find her through your searches maybe we can canvas the homes near the park starting with the ones closest to the north entrance where Sam and I enter.'
A few minutes later her phone buzzed 'Rose Meadows on her way to you'. She recalled the woman who came to sketch the prowler Sam saw at her house who turned out to be Logan Hill. She shuddered at the thought. Then she recalled the unopened letters from her brothers. Perhaps someday she would read them. She pushed that thought aside and gazed at Sam.
"Come on please fight. Don't leave me all alone" Jules whispered in Sam's ear as tears slipped out again.
Forty minutes later Rose Meadows was headed back to SRU HQ with a sketch of Joan. Jules had stepped out into the hall to give the details but kept watch on Sam.
Entering the room again she took the damp washcloth and wiped his sweaty brow. She noticed in the short time she was out of the room that Sam's color had changed. He was no longer pale white and waxy he was now definitely a tinge of yellow. Jaundice had set in like the doctor said it might.
Jules hadn't cried so much ever. But the tears flowed again. She picked up Sam's hand and kissed it. She noticed the yellowing of his fingers and nail beds. "Please, please, I know it's hard. Please stay with me" she cried.
SRU HQ – Briefing Room
Ed got off the phone just as Rose entered the room and handed Spike the sketch. Spike said "That was fast. Thank you Rose."
Rose responded "I hope you find her. I hope she has answers that can help Sam."
Ed called out "Just spoke to Jake Baker at 38903 Park Lane. He rents his house to a Joan Blomgren. It is right near the entrance Sam and Jules use."
Greg directed "Spike call Austin Pharmaceuticals and I'll contact Hatchaid Pharmaceuticals." Both made the calls.
Spike's excited voice said "Got it. Joan Blomgren is a technician in their research lab. They confirm her address is 38903 Park Lane. They are sending me an employee photo."
His email pinged and he opened the file. The guys gathered behind him. Spike held up the sketch next to the photo. It was her.
"Let go" Ed commanded as Team One and Four headed to the SUVs.
Greg called out "Winnie we need warrants for both Austin Pharmaceuticals and the residence of Joan Blomgrem. Get Holleran to push it through if need be. We need it yesterday. We'll wait at the location until we get it. Team Four you take the company and channel two we will head to the home and be on channel one."
Troy replied "Copy that" and led his team to the SUVs.
Spike interjected "Boss I don't know if we can wait. Jules just texted to say Sam is jaundiced now. His liver is shutting down."
Winnie responded "I'll get it to you fast. I'll have Commander Holleran call the Crown Attorney personally."
Ed smiled Isaac Glover would make it happen for them. The man fully deserved to be named the new Toronto Crown Attorney. He was happy to relocate from Ottawa to Toronto for the promotion. Toronto was lucky to have a man like Isaac in that position.
Home Joan Blomgren
Joan was making up another batch of power bars. The effects should be kicking in soon. She was surprised that it was taking so long. He should have been dead last week. The last batch she had quadrupled the dosage in the bars. This time she was making them ten times stronger.
She pulled out the vial of her concoction and inserted a needle to withdraw the necessary amount. She was almost out. Tomorrow she would have to mix up a new batch at work. Joan added the concoction to the power bar mix and added extra walnuts to cover any possible flavor changes.
Joan gave it a final mix and poured it in the pan. She put the pan in the oven and set the timer. Sitting at the kitchen table she took a sip of tea then turned on her laptop.
She decided to review her 'Jellyfish recipe'. It was such a good toxin. In large doses it caused so many symptoms. She went down the list smiling as she thought of Sam experiencing each of them. It was just payback for jilting her. For leading her on for almost a year.
- Itching
- Swelling
- Tingling and numbness
- Throbbing pain that radiates up a leg or an arm
- Headache
- Muscle and joint problems
- Weakness and dizziness
- Fever
- Loss of consciousness
- Difficulty breathing
- Heart problems
Her doorbell rang and she checked the timer. Fifteen more minutes. She went to see who it was.
Joan opened the door to find two SRU officers on her porch "May I help you?" she asked.
Greg said "Joan Blomgren?"
She smiled and said "Yes officers I'm Joan."
Ed pushed into her house and turned her around cuffing her quickly and called out "Spike, Raf subject is detained. Enter from the back and start the search."
Joan sputtered out "What is the meaning of this? Why are you here?"
Greg asked "Do you know Sam Braddock?" he showed a picture of Sam.
"Yes of course I do. We run in the same park. Again I ask. Why are you here and why have you cuffed me?" She watched as Ed began going through her drawers in her study.
Spike found the laptop and saw what was on the screen and called out "Boss got it. Holy crap. She's poisoning Sam with a concoction where the main ingredient is jellyfish venom. I have the formulation right here."
Greg called out "Call Dr. Hammond, get him a copy of it now."
Ed walked up in his intimidating manner and said "What's the antidote?"
Joan laughed "Even if there was one I wouldn't tell you. Sam deserves to die. He lied to me and said he wasn't dating his teammate. He flirted with me for almost a year and then when I asked him out he had the audacity to jilt me and tell me he was screwing his team mate. I waited a year for him. I deserved better. I deserve an honest man."
Spike walked passed on his way to the truck with the laptop and said "You deserve jail. A good, honest man is near death because of you. But we won't let you succeed." He continued to the truck. "Winne get me the number of the lead researcher at Austin Pharmaceuticals."
Winnie called out "On it."
Ed grabbed her arm and led her out to the waiting patrol unit "Get her out of here. Initial charge is assault of a police officer."
One Week Later – Hospital – Sam's Room
Jules entered Sam's room with a smile. It had been a week since they determined the concoction of the jellyfish poison. Dr. Hammond worked with the lead researcher at Austin Pharmaceuticals and they quickly developed countermeasures to stop and reverse the damage of the poison.
It took three days for Sam to be taken off the ventilator. Another two days before his heart settled into his normal rhythm and the numbness and tingling to dissipate. The shooting pains had ceased too. The jaundice was nearly cleared and the doctor proclaimed his liver function was back to normal. All that was lingering right now was slight joint pain from the jellyfish toxin and the jitters from a withdrawal of the methamphetamine like substance Joan had included.
"I brought you something" Jules said as she hid her hand behind her back.
Sam smiled "I hope it's an iced capp. Dr. Hammond said I could have caffeine now."
Jules produced a large ice capp. Sam said "You know the direct path to my heart Jules."
Spike laughed as he entered hearing the comment. "Well then Jules just might have competition for your heart" he said as he produced an ice capp. "Heard through the grapevine you could have coffee and thought you might like one."
Sam chuckled "No contest. Jules's wins hands down buddy. Sorry. You get second place. Best friend and brother."
"It's alright by me" Spike said. "Jules's is better looking than me anyways" he winked at Jules.
The three of them sat talking for several hours. Ed, Greg, Wordy and Raf showed up bearing dinner for all of them courtesy of Sophie and Shel. Sam enjoyed dinner and being with the team. He was alive because they vowed to do everything they could to save him. For that and so many other things he was eternally grateful.
When all the guys finally got up to leave for the night he said "Thanks for not giving up on me. Thank you for saving me from Jilted Joan's jellyfish poison."
Raf and Wordy just smiled.
Greg patted his shoulder "Just finish getting better. Need you with us."
Spike laughed "Good alliteration Sam. See ya tomorrow buddy."
Ed said "Had too. Counting on you beating Jacob in the competition. By the way when you are back we are rerunning you through the annual requals. Your last scores don't count and were tossed out."
Sam grinned "Will do and thanks. I don't think I could live with a ten minute mile in my records. Not to mention missing five out of ten targets in the shoot house."
They filed out and it was just Jules and Sam. Jules crawled into bed on his left side and laid her head on his chest listening to his heartbeat. It was strong and steady.
Sam wrapped his arm around her and kissed the top of her head. He knew that she had been so very scared. He whispered "Hey Jules I have a better alliteration."
Jules looked up and him and saw the desire flickering in his eyes "What?"
Using his husky sexy voice Sam said "When we get home how about we have another Joyful Jockey Jules JAMfest!"
In her sultry voice Jules replied "Can't wait to go for another ride."
Their lips met joining their hearts and souls together again.
.
AN: Special nods to Samtastic readers for their great 'J' ideas: venetiaj, fallingfreely-flyingblind, Danileia, jayrae1996, nicolelylewis, thisisfromawhileago, raymond868, chocolateverries, and Purpwithapen
If you enjoy Alphabet Injuries you might enjoy the Beauty of Life world of my own creation. I have completed and published the first book in my Beauty of Life series - FORSAKEN: On the Edge of Oblivion - and I'm halfway through writing my second book SOLACE: Behind the Shield. My Beauty of Life series somewhat follows the world I have created here and incorporates the Alphabet Injuries stories into the flow of the overall story line. There are necessary changes, NEW content, and NEW twists and turns.
FORSAKEN: On the Edge of Oblivion
Beauty of Life, Book One
by Laura Acton
Is now available as an ebook or paperback on Amazon.
(note: Kindle ebooks can be read on computers, tablets and phones with a free reader app from Amazon - NO Kindle required.)
Come meet Daniel William Broderick, Alexandra 'Lexa' McKenna, Jonathan Hardy, Nicholas Pastore, Dante 'Loki' Baldovino, Abraham 'Bram' De Haven, Raymundo Palomo, Tia Walsh, Walter Gambrill, Brody Mikhail Hunter and the rest of your favorite characters (the General, the Broderick cousins, Blaze, Mason, Patch, etc.). Delve into a complex world of courageous men and women riding a roller coaster of emotions and danger. Explore the nature of relationships and bonds developed and strengthened in the face of adversity.
Forsaken Summary:
Dan Broderick is on the edge of oblivion. After a friendly fire incident, his heart and soul were ripped to shreds. He chose to leave Special Forces when his unit, men he considered brothers, turned their backs on him. Dan returned to Toronto where he hoped to find the beauty of life and make a difference as a sniper for the Tactical Response Force. Will his new team pull him back from the edge or be the reason he slips into oblivion?
Alpha Team is the elite team of Toronto's Tactical Response Force. Five men and one woman with a rare familial bond, help each other cope with the dark side of humanity as they keep the citizens of Toronto and each other safe. Their team balance is knocked off kilter when an unwanted, new teammate is forced on them. Will Alpha Team's resentment of the new member prevent them from recognizing the wounded soul in their midst before it's too late to save him?
FORSAKEN contains 80% new content combined with some tweaked/expanded parts of previous stories. Forsaken begins with Dan's meeting with the General to exit the military. There is an all new way that Dan first meets the team and Lexa (JAM fans should like this way a lot). There will be many injuries along the way in the rough and tumble worlds of the Tactical Response Force and Special Forces.
You can visit Amazon and search for LAURA ACTON in Kindle books to read the first 4 chapters of FORSAKEN: On the Edge of Oblivion with their look inside feature.