Chapter 12: Tuesdays at Al's
Although Bob Hughes had retired at the end of September, he still remained active on the hospital's Board. His role as chair of the Snyder Pavilion committee ensured that he saw Luke and Reid at least once a month at committee meetings. After Noah's surgery in May, Bob had dragged Reid to Al's to "get some perspective" and somehow their one-off lunch had become a weekly ritual.
This Tuesday, Bob arrived early and was enjoying an egg cream while scanning the headlines on the Intruder that had been left by the previous customer. Reid arrived right on time and sat down across from Bob, pulling out a menu.
"You know, Dr. Oliver," Bob began as Reid scanned the options, "You could take it a little easier on your staff."
"Is it my fault I'm working with a bunch of local yokels who can't tell an EEG from MSG?"
"Reid," Bob continued, "Chris is driving me crazy. He's calling me daily with the latest complaints. If you don't lay off the staff, you're going to have a mutiny on your hands."
"If Chris would keep his staff better trained and managed, I wouldn't have to waste my time pointing out all their shortcomings."
"Reid, have you taken a day off since Luke left for Iowa?"
"What's that got to do with anything?"
"It's not easy when you're apart from the person you love."
"I managed fine before I moved to Oakdale."
"You managed," said Bob. "But I think you convinced yourself you were a lot more fine than you were."
Reid scowled. "Thank you, Oprah Hughes."
"I had your assistant clear your calendar for tomorrow."
"You can't do that! You don't even work at Memorial any more."
"It doesn't mean I don't still have pull with the right people," smiled Bob.
"What am I supposed to do with myself?" asked Reid.
"Have fun?" suggested Bob.
Wednesday morning Reid's alarm woke him at the usual hour. He put on the coffee and stepped in the shower before remembering that he didn't have to go into the hospital at all.
Aside from his recent weekends with Luke, he couldn't remember the last time he had a free day, and he literally didn't know what to do with himself. His case files called to him from his briefcase, but he decided that Bob had issued a challenge and he was not going to back down from it. He was a smart guy – he ought to be able to figure out how to have a few hours of fun if it killed him.
He sat in the kitchen in his towel, sipped his coffee and read the morning paper. The front pages were filled with the usual depressing robberies, financial crises, and political scandals. He was about to flip to the sports section when a half-page ad caught his eye. Nah, he thought to himself. But then he realized that the last impulsive thing he'd done was getting on that ridiculous bull in Dallas, and he wasn't really thinking straight at that point. He remembered something about "those who can, do; those who can't..."
What the heck, thought Reid. He changed into a long-sleeved T-shirt and jeans, grabbed a jacket, tucked the blue glass from his nightstand into his pocket and set off.
An hour later, Reid pulled up at the Oakdale Recreation Center. As he walked through the doors, he was hit by a wave of familiar sensations – cold brisk air and the mixed smell of incomplete combustion, stale sweat, cheap popcorn, and industrial cleaner.
Reid made his way into the arena and sat down in the visitor's bench. The morning figure skaters were just finishing their session and he watched as several ran through their programs. He opened the shopping bag he carried, pulled out a box containing a brand new pair of CCM Tacks. He pulled out the skates, admiring the improvements in materials and appearance since he'd last worn a pair, and scraped his fingernail along the blades to confirm they were sharp enough to be safe.
He was amazed how quickly the routines came back - the double-tug between each lace cross, the loop up before the loop under on the last set of hooks. He tossed his shoes into the shopping bag, stuffed it below the bench and stood up cautiously. He did a few tentative knee bends and then tipped back and forth, reacquainting himself with the distinctive rock of the blade. Satisfied his body would remember what to do he lifted the gate latch and took his first steps onto the ice.
Holding onto the barrier, he took a few tentative steps to get a feel for the blades on ice. Then he pushed the gate back shut and pushed away from the wall. Left, right, left, right. His steps gradually lengthened into practiced strokes and he began gliding around the ice. He did a couple of slow laps and tossed his jacket over the boards on the third lap.
Reid picked up the pace of his steps, bending lower and pushing harder. Left, right, left, right, all the way down one side. He picked up speed and crouched so he could push even harder. Push, cross, push, cross, around the far end of the rink. Soon he was lapping the other skaters on the mostly empty public session. After speeding around the end on the next lap, he stood up straight to catch his breath, gliding along the straightaway. The wind hitting his face made his eyes sting, making him laugh out loud.
Once Reid had gotten over the initial adrenalin rush, he settled into a steady and sustainable pace, enjoying the opportunity to daydream a bit about a certain blonde shirt-stealer. After 45 minutes, he decided he could officially call it a victory – he was actually having fun.
That darned Bob Hughes was right again.
Memorial Hospital's annual black-tie fundraiser was held in mid-August. Luke had taken one look at Reid's tuxedo and declared it unfit. "You may have been able to get away with that in Dallas when you could just blend in with the rest of the crowd, but you're seated at the head table this year."
"I'm a neurosurgeon, not Brad Pitt," said Reid.
"I dunno – I think you could give him a run for his money," Luke said, flashing his flirty eyes.
Reid almost blushed. "I'm not going shopping for a monkey suit I'm only going to wear once."
"You won't have to. I took care of it. Fenmore's will be delivering one later this afternoon. Besides, you're administration now – you'd better get used to wearing it."
"Oh, golly, I just can't wait," said Reid, returning to his crossword.
The courier arrived shortly after four o'clock which gave Luke and Reid just enough time for a long, leisurely shower before getting ready for the hospital gala. Reid looked up periodically as he put on his own pleated shirt, watching as Luke got dressed. The summer sun had been kind to Luke and the many days they'd spent hiking and tossing a Frisbee had given him a bit of color that contrasted strikingly with the crisp white shirt.
Reid couldn't take his eyes off Luke as he deftly managed his cufflinks and then inserted the matching onyx studs; Reid couldn't help feeling disappointed when the final few inches of Luke's chest disappeared beneath the white cotton. Luke tied his bow-tie on autopilot, with the speed and effortlessness that comes from familiarity. Luke donned his Armani jacket and looked at his reflection in the mirror, brushing stray strands of bangs off his forehead. He noticed Reid staring from the other side of the room in the reflection.
Luke turned around briefly and asked, "What?" before turning back to the mirror to finish adjusting his bow-tie. The shimmery black silk and simple cut of the suit made Luke look like a movie star.
Reid made his way across the room and stood behind Luke, wrapping his arms around Luke's shoulders. His voice caught in his throat as he spoke: "You look…incredible."
Luke turned around and wrapped his own arms around Reid's waist and smiled broadly. "You're lookin' pretty fine yourself, Dr. Oliver."
Reid gazed deeply in Luke's eyes thinking he could easily lose himself for the rest of the evening in those brown depths. He gently brushed Luke's cheek with his hand. He leaned his head forwards so their foreheads nearly touch and began, "Luke, I…"
Luke tilted his head questioningly, trying to decipher the intensity in Reid's gaze.
"Luke, I…." Reid began again. "…I think I could use some help with these damned cufflinks."
Luke blinked for a minute to make sure he'd heard correctly, frowned, then eyed Reid suspiciously. Then he grabbed the cufflinks out of Reid's hands and made quick work of them. "Lemme guess," said Luke, "You want help with the tie, too?"
"Um, yeah," said Reid, taking a step back and looking away.
Luke sighed and rolled his eyes. He adjusted Reid's shoulders so that they were square, and then took the tie that hung loosely around Reid's neck. Luke gently wrapped the tie around Reid's neck and executed the fabric gymnastics needed to form the perfect knot. The whole time, he could feel Reid's gaze burning a hole in his forehead.
Luke took a step back to admire his handiwork. "You look perfectly…" he began. A string of words ran through Luke's head: Gorgeous? Sexy? Yummy? Dashing? Breathtaking?
Reid raised an eyebrow.
"Pretentious."
By the time they arrived at the Oakdale Botanical Gardens for the gala, the event was well underway. Bob and Kim stood near the entrance to their reception hall, greeting the assortment of friends, benefactors, and dignitaries as they arrived.
Reid let Luke lead him around by the hand as he "worked" the room. Reid marveled at how Luke seemed to know just about everyone in Oakdale. Luke was really in his element, as person after person greeted him warmly and authentically. They could barely walk a few feet before Luke would be stopped for a kiss on the cheek. Or he would stop himself to shake hands with a guest and say thank you. Reid admired how Luke engaged with everybody he interacted with, making them feel like the only ones in the very crowded room. Luke's smile was contagious, and Reid even made nice as Luke dutifully introduced him to each and every bit of flesh he pressed.
About half-way around the room they ran into Chris and Katie just as Luke ran off after someone he'd been trying to reach all week. Katie wore a floor-length bright royal blue strapless dress similar in color to the dress she wore to Alison and Casey's wedding, Reid recalled; and she looked beautiful.
Reid mock-wolf-whistled and said, "Not bad." Reid kissed Katie's hand and she beamed in response.
"Hey, hands off the merchandise," Chris joked.
"She's not for sale, Doogie," Reid tossed over his shoulder as he left for the buffet table.
At dinner, Luke and Reid sat at the head table with Bob and Kim, Chris and Katie, and Henry and Barbara. The champagne flowed freely, the food was fantastic and everyone was in high spirits. The conversation was upbeat and non-stop. Midway through the main course, Luke hooked his leg underneath Reid's, where it remained until dessert was served.
As the waiters made their way around the room with pots of coffee and decaf, Bob nodded to Reid and Chris, offered an arm to Kim, and made his way to the dais at the front of the room. Reid and Chris followed behind and flanked him on either side as Kim stood just behind and Bob prepared to speak.
Bob cleared his throat as the tech crew adjusted the microphone levels, sending a characteristic feedback whine through the room.
"Good evening," Bob began. "Ladies and gentlemen, thank you so much for joining us tonight at Memorial Hospital's 'Light Up the Future' dinner and for your continuing and generous support of our efforts.
"As you are all well aware, 2010 has been an incredible year in Memorial's history. In January, we were named a 'Top 10' facility for cardiac and GI specialties by Illinois Life magazine for the fifth year running. In February, we opened our new 'Mother's Place' maternity ward. But I'm sure I don't need to tell you all the biggest news of the year.
"In May, Memorial Hospital announced the development of the new Snyder Pavilion surgical wing. Named in honor of Bradley Snyder, who was tragically killed late last year, the Pavilion will offer state-of-the-art technical operating facilities for neurology, cardiology and surgical oncology." Katie bit her lip and fought back the tear that was threatening to ruin her mascara. Jack caught her eye from across the room and nodded apologetically.
Bob continued: "In addition, to a world-class ICU, the Snyder Pavilion will be home to a Class IIIC neonatal intensive care unit – this will make us a regional NICU center, allowing us to treat the most vulnerable infants without having to transfer them to facilities in Chicago."
"None of this would be possible without the incredible generosity of our benefactors. So, please, everyone, join me in a very big, and very heartfelt round of applause for Mr. Henry Coleman." Bob paused and extended a hand out, gesturing for Henry to stand up.
Henry looked around stunned. Katie beamed at him across the table, bursting with pride. Barbara simply put an arm around his shoulder and kissed him on the cheek, then gently nudged him to stand up as the audience gave him a protracted ovation.
When the applause finally died down, Bob went on. "One aspect of the Snyder Pavilion that we are particularly proud of is that it will not just be a bunch of high-tech machines and medicines. We are blessed to have a top-notch staff…" Bob paused for applause; as Luke caught Reid's eye, Reid did his best to maintain his stony-faced composure.
"…and of the Pavilion's attention to the holistic care of our patients. The Snyder Pavilion will also be introducing groundbreaking innovations in patient and family accommodation and support to allow patients to benefit from the care of their loved ones during trying times. For that, we owe our thanks to Luke Snyder and the Snyder Foundation."
Bob paused again for applause, this time gesturing for Luke to stand. Reid quickly caught Luke's eye before looking down, hoping that would help mask the proud smile on his face. Luke found Holden and Lily in the crowd and smiled at them in silent thanks before taking a mock bow and sitting back down.
"Now, it's often been said that when one door closes, another opens," Bob resumed. "With the opening of the Snyder Pavilion, it has indeed come time to close another door, so I'd like to take the opportunity to formally announce my intention to step down as Chief of Staff at the end of next month. I won't be far away, though, as I'll remain on the Board of Directors, and will take over as Board Chair when Lucinda Walsh completes her term in January."
Many in the audience nodded knowingly, although there were a few gasps from some surprised patrons who had equated Bob with Memorial for nearly 50 years.
"I am thrilled to formally introduce my successors. First, taking over as Chief of Staff, will be my son Dr. Christopher Hughes. Many of you will be familiar with Chris from his many years practicing at Memorial, and more recently from his appearances with Katie Snyder on WOAK's Oakdale Now." Chris winked at Katie as the audience politely applauded.
"I'd also like to announce the creation of a new position – Chief of Surgical Administration. I am very pleased to announce that this role will be filled by Dr. Reid Oliver, a pioneer in the field of neurosurgery. Dr. Oliver joined Memorial's staff this past January and has been working closely with the Snyder Foundation on the development of the Pavilion." Luke beamed with pride as Reid again tried to look nonchalant.
"So, ladies and gentlemen, if you'll please –" Bob started before he was interrupted by a loud "STOP!"
A 50-something man in a tuxedo, his shirt slightly untucked and his hair disheveled, stumbled towards the stage. "Bob Hughes, goddamn you. How could you let these damned people take over?"
Bob looked at the man with a bewildered stare. "Excuse me? Can I help you?" Reid, Chris, Bob and Kim all took a step back from the clearly drunk and belligerent man.
"We the people of Oakdale trusted you with our care. With our lives. With our loved ones. And you are letting these people take over!" ranted the man.
"My god, Skozy, you're drunk! You need to calm down," Bob said, as the police detail made their way over.
"You're letting homodoc and that faggot rich boy ruin Oakdale!" Mr. Skozy shouted.
Reid stepped forward menacingly: "WHAT did you call him?"
"You heard me, you perv!" the man shot back. "I called you homodoc and your boyfriend a goddamn fa –"
He was unable to finish his sentence before Reid hauled back and slugged him in the jaw.
"Oh my god! Reid!" Luke pushed his chair back, knocking over several wine glasses in his haste to make his way through the crowd that had gathered at the front of the room.
Mr. Skozy slowly peeled himself off the ground, groggy and even less coherent. "C'mon Bob, are you gonna man up and do your goddamn job protecting the citizens of Oakdale."
Reid started towards him "Look, you –"
"Reid, shut up and let me handle this," Bob said.
Chris struggled to hold Reid back and told him, "He's not worth it. Let it go."
Bob looked at the man with disgust. "Reid Oliver would be an asset at any medical facility in the world, and Luke Snyder is one of the most generous philanthropists in the midwest. Without their involvement thousands of people in Oakdale would be worse off. You may be a long-time board member and donor, but it's one of your damned business who they choose to spend their personal time with. You make me sick."
Turning to the police officers who had finally arrived, Bob told them to "Take him away."
As the crowd parted to allow the police through, Luke was finally able to make his way to Reid's side. Chris had ushered Reid to a quiet corner of the room, and nodded to Luke as he made himself scarce.
"Are you a fucking insane? Your hand!" Luke yelled as soon as he was close enough to make eye contact.
"Fuck the hand!" Reid shouted back. "I'm not going to stand back while some dickhead with a stick up his ass disses the man I love in front of all the prominent citizens of Oakdale."
The members of the assembled crowd stepped back and at least pretended not to eavesdrop.
Luke took a step back. Did he just hear the word "love?" He grabbed the nearest chair and set it down facing Reid.
"Reid," he said, "I'm a big boy. I can defend myself. Don't you think I've been called a lot worse at some point in my life." He took Reid's hands. "Can I see? Is it broken?"
"Um, I think I'm the doctor here," Reid replied.
"All right, Dr. Oliver," Luke acceded. "What's the prognosis?"
Reid opened and closed it a few times and made a big show out of testing each knuckle before replying. "It's a little sore, but it'll be fine."
"Did you say something about 'the man you love?' " Luke asked uncertainly.
"Oh, yeah, that," said Reid. "Don't let it go to your head."
Luke felt a warm glow permeate every pore on his skin.
"Promise me one thing , will you?" Luke asked
"What?"
"You won't ever do anything so stupid again?" Luke finished. Luke leaned forwards and took Reid's face in both hands, then leaned in and placed a long, lingering kiss on his lips.
Tenderly placing a hand on Luke's cheek, Reid replied, "I don't make promises I can't keep."
Luke sighed heavily. "And that is one of so very many reasons why I am completely in love with you."
After two hours of circling the rink, Reid's legs were starting to protest. While the muscle memory had returned, the particular combination of leg muscles were definitely unaccustomed to such sustained use. Reid left the ice, removed his skates, dried off the blades and tossed them back into their box and drove home. The cold air had cleared his head and he felt more energized than he had all week.
Making himself a large salami, pastrami, and pepperoni sandwich, Reid dialed Luke's number. Not expecting Luke to answer on the first ring, Reid was mid-bite when Luke picked up.
"Reid?"
"Eye, Ruke," he managed to get out, trying to quickly chew and swallow the enormous mouthful of sandwich.
"Is everything okay?"
"Yeah," Reid finally managed. "Everything's fine. How're you?"
"I'm fine," said Luke suspiciously. "Why?"
"Just wondering," said Reid. "What have you been up to?"
"Not much," said Luke. "Mostly writing, responding to emails, hanging out with some of my classmates. Aren't you supposed to be on rounds right now?"
"No, Bob arranged for me to take the day off," said Reid.
"Why?"
"The old fusspot said something about wanting me to have fun," Reid said, with as much indignation as he could muster.
Luke laughed out loud. "He did? And did you?"
"Yeah, I guess I did."
Luke laughed again, "So what did you do? Alphabetize your Journal of Neurology back issues?"
"As a matter of fact, No. I, um, went skating."
On hearing this, Luke, who had been rocking his desk chair back and forth as they talked, tipped a little too far back and ungracefully tumbled from his chair, dropping the phone.
"Luke, are you there? Are you okay?"
"Yeah, I'm fine. Just, um dropped my phone," said Luke sheepishly. "Did I hear you say you went skating? As in thin metal blades on your feet? Big slab of ice?"
"Mm hm."
"Well, I'll be. Reid Oliver does know how to have fun. How was it?"
Once they got started, Luke and Reid chatted easily for 45 minutes, catching up on the week-and-a-half worth of activity before Reid asked, "Did you really bring my shirt with you?"
"Yeah," Luke admitted. " I wear it every night."
"Ooh, that'll be nice by the time you get back," Reid laughed.
"Well, a man's gotta do what a man's gotta do," replied Luke, laughing as well.
"You know that piece of glass you gave me," Reid asked.
"Yeah."
"It's the last thing I look at every night, and the first thing I see in the morning," Reid confessed.
Luke's heart did a happy dance as he tried to think of a witty reply, but nothing came to mind. Finally he said, "You didn't really call just to tell me that you went ice skating, did you?"
Reid replied, "Well, not quite."
"So why did you call?" asked Luke.
Reid paused and took a deep breath before speaking. "I just wanted to tell you I love you."
"I love you, too, Reid," said Luke.
"Talk to you tomorrow?" Reid asked, hoping he sounded casual and noncommittal.
"Sure. I should probably go finish up my assignment now, though."
" Okay. 'Night."
" 'Night."
