A/N: Hope you are enjoying the story thus far. In this chapter, there is a lot of talk about the Christian Religion. If it disturbs you, I am sorry, but for the content of the story and chapter, it is important. Thank you, and I hope you continue to enjoy the saga of Adam's Heart. Have a great day, Lady Dragonsblood. Oh and please, don't forget to review! Thank you!
Shawn managed to catch Mitch as the torn man's legs went out from under him. Everyone was startled when Roman let out a roar, much like he did in the ring.
Roman turned and ran down the hallway. He vanished from sight as he rounded the corner. Adam hoped Roman would be alright, but for now, he was needed here. Louise came out of the room like a zombie.
Adam wrapped his arm around her waist. He and Shawn led the distraught parents to the quiet waiting room area.
Billy looked at his parents as they passed by. Tim and Elijah looked at their older brother. The six year old twins looked frightened. Billy pulled his brothers up close against him, one on each side.
"It's just us now guys. We have to take care of mom and dad. You're gonna have to grow up and be big boys. No more fights or arguments, at least for a while. Can you do that for me? For mom and dad?" Bill spoke with firm but love filled voice. He'd known his sister was going to die, Bill wasn't stupid.
Elijah looked up at Billy. "Is Kelly in heben now? No more nose bweeds?" His eyes were full of question.
Bill nodded. "Yeah, she is. No, no more nose bleeds. She is a beautiful angel now. Remember what the Sunday school teacher said? Kelly will always be with us, in our hearts of remembrance. Kelly is with Grammy and Grampy now. They will look after her, and so will Jesus." Bill hoped his younger brothers understood.
"You brother is right, boys. Kelly walks in God's light. No more pain, no more suffering. Bill, your folks need you. Are you ready? You're going to have to be the strong one now, for a while." Shawn smiled. He held his hands out to the twins.
Tim took Shawn's hand and Bill carried Elijah. Shawn took them to a private waiting room. The nurses had prepared the room while Bill had spoken to his brothers.
When Shawn and three boys entered the room, the twins ran to their mother, who held her arms out for her youngest. Mother and sons clung to each other.
Bill sat next to his dad. "We know, dad. I told the twins, she is in heaven. Kelly is an angel now, and that she is with Grammy and Grampy."
Mitch looked at his eldest. "You knew? But, we never... we just didn't know how. How do you tell... that your sister is dying." He buried his face in his hands.
"Dad, I'm... not... I looked up severe nosebleeds on-line. All her trips to the hospitals, all the treatments. I finally figured out she had Juvenile Leukemia. It's okay, dad. You only meant to protect us. Did... did... was she in pain?" Bill asked with tear filled eyes. He wanted to be strong, but it was hard.
Mitch looked at his son. "No, son, she wasn't in any pain. She just... went to sleep. Her little body just couldn't take any more. The doctor's did all they could. They also said the trial would have been to much for her. She'd had enough. She loved you boys. You were such a great older brother." Mitch hugged his boy close.
Shawn and Adam stood off to the side. They felt like intruders, but, they hated to just leave. Shawn looked at Adam.
"I'd better go find Roman. Make sure he is alright. I'd call Dean, but he has a huge spot tonight, and he is in the final segment match." Shawn looked at his watch, the SmackDown taping had only just started.
Adam shook his head. "I'll find Roman. You will be more useful here. I can share the feeling of loss with him. I love you, Shawn." He gave Shawn a thin lipped smile.
"I love you, Adam. Alright, just let me know if you need me." Shawn gave Adam a small, but love filled kiss. He watched as Adam left the room to find their friend.
When Adam got back to the hallway he noticed it was still quiet and a guard stood at Kelly's door. Adam stopped and spoke to the man.
"I'm with the Brown family. Have you seen a tall man? Dressed in a black shirt and black trousers? Long black hair? Big guy?" Adam looked at the man with hope.
"I assume you mean Roman Reigns? All I know is, I heard someone remark that Roman Reigns was outside. There's a green space at the side of the building, lots of benches. It's hidden behind some bushes. Maybe he went there, it's a peaceful place." The guard spoke with a shrug, but he gave Adam a bit of a smile.
With a nod and thanks, Adam left. He hoped Roman would be at the little park. This must have brought Roman back to so many painful memories.
Adam went to where they had entered the hospital. Once outside, he went around to the side of the building. There was a green area surrounded by bushes, as the guard had described. Adam spotted a small, narrow break in the bushes with a well worn path.
Adam went down the path and through the opening. If Adam hadn't been so relieved to see Roman, he would noticed how pretty the little space was. Six benches surrounded a small fountain. The air was filled with the scent of flowers. The place was a haven for people in, or visiting the hospital.
Roman sat on bench, his face buried in his hands. Adam could see the wrestler's shoulders quake as he sobbed. Adam quietly sat on the bench and put a hand on Roman's back.
"Why... why..." Roman sobbed. It was all he could do not to just get up and destroy everything in sight.
Adam sighed. "Her little body was just worn out. Mitch said the doctor's did all they could. Her body didn't want to suffer through yet another treatment, only to fail. She simply... went to sleep. She isn't sick or hurting any more. She's a precious angel with your Joanne." He spoke with heartfelt honesty.
"Who is Joanne?" Shawn asked as he sat down on the bench on the other side of Roman.
Adam bit his lip. He had no idea Shawn was there. He looked at Roman who still held his head in his hands.
"Um... what are you doing here? I thought you were helping the Brown's." Adam looked at Shawn with an unreadable expression.
Shawn sighed. "The doctors came in to talk to them, the head doctor asked me to leave. Louise asked me to find Roman, they were all worried about him. I'm sorry, I should have made my presence known, but I didn't want to interrupt your beautiful words, darlin'." Shawn looked at his fiancé with an apologetic look.
Roman whimpered. "Just... tell him... I... trust Shawn. Oh Adam... do... you.. Joanne... my precious... princess."
Adam rubbed Roman's back as the man sobbed out his words. "Shawn, you can not tell anyone what I am about to say..." He looked at his lover in earnest. His eyes glittered with seriousness.
"You know I won't. Don't tell me if you don't want to. I'll understand." Shawn put his hand on Adam's arm as he spoke.
Roman finally looked up. He looked like he'd been crying for a week, not an hour. "No... I want you... to know. Not right... not right..." His head went back into his hands as fresh tears rained down his cheeks.
Adam spoke. "Roman told me this on Saturday, and he felt bad about asking me to keep it from you. After I tell you, I hope you will understand why..." Adam went on to tell Shawn exactly what Roman had told him. Roman sobbed harder at some points, less at others.
"... So, Roman doesn't want Joanne or Galina's name in the dirt sheets. You know how they are. Roman, may I mention the other?" Adam asked twenty minutes later as he finished.
Roman nodded. "Yeah, he needs to know. Again, I shouldn't have asked you to keep secrets from Shawn." Roman finally sat up. He wiped his face with his handkerchief. He simply had no more tears left the shed.
Adam went on to tell Shawn about the check from Roman and Dean, and that he'd hidden it in his jewelery box in the secret drawer. "...I'm going to cash it, and not say who or where it came from when I put it in the Foundation account. It was a wonderful thing for him and Dean to do. So, now that you know, please forget." He looked at Shawn with anxious eyes.
Shawn looked at Roman, he placed his hand on the grieving man's knee. "I'm sure you were a great dad. I can't even begin to imagine how you feel. Roman, you understand what that family is going through. You can help them better than Adam or I ever could. You don't have to tell them why, but your words will help them. I know what Adam said is right. There are two sweet, beautiful, happy angels in Heaven. They are no longer suffering, no longer weak and tired. They are now able to run and play among the Heavenly streets. I don't know why God lets things happen, but I do know, He has taken Joanne and Kelly into His magnificent glory, to live for ever in the His Kingdom and in our hearts. I also know, that when you need her, Joanne will be there. I have absolutely no doubt, Bret drove the car that day when the brakes failed and we went off the road." Shawn's words came from his faith filled heart. He wanted Roman to help the Brown's like no one else could.
Adam nodded in agreement. "Shawn is right. Bret saved our lives. Our loved ones never truly leave us. Shawn and I were led to the Brown's. You were brought in for a reason as well. I think now, we met them was to bring you to them, so you could help them." He shrugged as he looked at Roman.
Shawn smiled with pride. He'd watched Adam's faith grow stronger and stronger. "Adam, that's... I am quite sure you're right. Like I said, you don't have to mention your Princess, but you can help them. Ready to go back in?" He looked at Roman with a smile as well. If nothing else, he hoped to give Roman courage.
Roman nodded. "You guys are just... thanks." He didn't know how to say what he wanted, so he said all he could.
Adam stood. "Who knows. This could have all started with the spear accident. Because that brought us all closer. It also brought you and Dean closer as well."
Roman also stood. "Maybe. I will help as much as I can. I just wish... I could have seen her smile, one last time."
"Remember how happy she was last night. You gave her the night of her life. You gave her the strength to live one more day. She left the world with the happiest of memories. That is a valuable gift to give someone. I'm not saying that from ego or pride, but I am glad we were given the gift of knowing Kelly and the Brown's. How ever He works, God is good." Shawn got to his feet as he expounded his thoughts. Together, the trio went back into the hospital.
When they got back to the Childrens Ward, Adam noticed the guard was no longer in front of Kelly's door. They all noticed the door was open. The room was empty, as if nothing had ever happened.
The door to the private waiting room was partly open. Roman looked in. The Brown's were sitting, huddled together. Mitch saw Roman and waved him into the room. Roman looked at Adam and Shawn.
"Take your time. We'll either be here or back outside if they ask us to leave." Shawn spoke with a nod to the Islander.
Roman went into the room and closed the door. Adam saw the big bag of coloring books and giant box of crayons. He dumped the bag onto one of the small child sized tables in the play area. He put the box of crayons on the table as well. Adam absentmindedly stacked the coloring books into three, neat, even piles.
"They may as well be enjoyed, or should I give them to the twins?" Adam wasn't sure what to do.
Shawn moved to stand behind Adam. "No, I think this is better. The boys would rather play with their action figures. This way, many children can enjoy them. Adam, I am so proud you kept Roman's secret. Darlin', I know you must have felt guilty." Shawn led Adam back to the seating area of the waiting room.
The couple sat down and held hands. "Dean is gonna be worried. He would expect Roman to be back by now. I'd better text him." Shawn spoke thoughtfully as he pulled out his cell phone. He typed out a rather lengthy text and sent it.
Shawn and Adam sat hand in hand, each lost in their own thoughts. Shawn absentmindedly toyed with the engagement ring on Adam's left hand. "So pretty on your hand. No, it's beautiful." Shawn muttered. He ran his thumb over Adam's knuckles like he had when Adam had been in the hospital. It was a silent comfort.
Adam managed a smile. "I still can't get over that we got such wonderful wedding bands to match it... Um... what about that? I honestly don't mind, I was just curious."
Shawn looked at his own left ring finger. He had a band tattooed around it, with a "P" in tiny, intricate, fancy scroll work. Shawn had actually forgotten about it.
With a scoff, Shawn replied. "I never wanted to be without a wedding ring. I always thought if I lost my real one during a match, I'd still have one. The way it is, it should be easy to turn the "P" into an "A". I'll look into it..." Shawn kissed the back of Adam's hand.
Adam shook his head. "You don't have to, honestly, I don't mind. Just like you don't mind me having Bret's rings on the chain I always wear. I shouldn't have asked. I'm sorry, Shawnnie bear." He nuzzled against Shawn to show he was sorry.
Shawn put his arm around Adam's shoulder. "No, darlin'. Remember, my marriage wasn't like yours. I want to change it, okay?" He gave Adam a smile of assurance.
Adam was about to respond when he felt a phone vibrate in Shawn's blazer pocket. Shawn pulled out his phone. He looked at the message.
"Just as I figured..." Shawn turned the phone so Adam could read along. "I'll be there as quickly as possible. Wait for me, Dean." Shawn read the return message aloud.
Adam nodded. "Not surprised either. We should take a taxi back to the coach. Let Dean and Roman be alone. I'm sure Roman will need to talk to Dean."
"Yeah, planned on that too. Say, aren't you going to show me our wedding cake?" Shawn asked with a wink.
Adam winced. "I don't think now is the time for wedding talk. But, no, It's a surprise. They will deliver it during the ceremony." Adam wrapped his hands around Shawn's free arm and snuggled closer.
"Darlin', we should talk about happy things. Yes, I'm very sad and upset that Kelly is no longer here. But, I rejoice in the fact that she is at the feet of the Heavenly Father, a lamb in the arms of Christ. That is a happy and wonderful place to be." Shawn spoke softly and again with solid reassurance.
Adam looked at Shawn. "I wish my faith was stronger, but I guess you're right. Do you think... we could pay for Kelly's funeral?" His eyes filled with tears.
"We could, but I have a feeling...it's already going to be taken care of. I wouldn't step on Roman's toes." Shawn was as thoughtful as the look on his face.
Adam made a "hum" sound. "I should have thought of that. I just... that check... so much. Maybe they can't afford it... Roman and Dean I mean." Adam bit his lip.
"I wouldn't worry about it. It's their business, darlin'. Dean is really frugal, comes from his childhood. That's why he wears jeans instead of wrestling gear. He told me some stuff, while they were in Calgary for Bret's funeral. Anyway, we'll see what happens." Shawn stretched out his legs.
Shawn and Adam stopped talking, and went back to their own thoughts. Neither man had realized they had dozed off. Dean found the sleeping couple as he walked into the waiting room. Dean sat down across from Shawn and Adam, and gently cleared his throat. He didn't want to scare anyone.
Shawn was the first to stir. His cowboy hat had gone down over his eyes. He pushed it up and smiled when he saw Dean. Adam still slept, curled up against him.
"Hey, Dean. Roman is still with the family. By the way, Roman had Adam tell me. I tell you like I told Roman, no one and I mean no one will hear it from us." Shawn spoke softly as to not wake his boy.
Dean nodded. "I knew you wouldn't. I wanted him to tell you both, but he didn't want to. I'm glad you know, it's good to have people to talk to about it. I told him, Adam would understand more than anyone."
"I agree. Dean, Roman has taken this really hard. You'd better be prepared; I'm sure he's gonna wanna pay for the funeral. Dean, I am asking you, as a friend, please know that... do you need some..." Shawn didn't get to finish, Dean stopped him.
"Nope. We're okay. I know you mean well and I appreciate it. We're making top gate pay now. Plus with my championship, the company is paying for hotels and car rentals. That's one perk that comes in very handy, even if it's only for a while." Dean cleaned his fingernails with his pocketknife as he spoke.
Shawn scoffed. "I forgot about that. Well, one thing I can do is to make sure you keep that title for a while. Well after all, as a champion you work harder and longer. Vince appreciates that." Shaw stopped talking when Adam began to wake up.
Adam blinked his eyes, smacked his lips and stretched as much as he could. "You can turn off the TV, Shawnnie bear." He shifted against Shawn and went back to sleep.
Dean's brow arched. "Shawnnie bear?" He tried not to laugh, but his eyes glittered with mirth.
Shawn pulled his hat down again. "Yeah, well, I bet Roman has a pet name for you, too."
Dean laughed. "Yeah and I'll kill him if he ever says it outside the bedroom."
Shawn laughed as well. It was enough to wake Adam fully. The lanky blond rubbed his eyes. When Adam saw Dean he was surprised.
"Wow, I really fell asleep. How long have you been here, Dean?" Adam sat up and rubbed his eyes again.
Dean looked at his pocket watch. "Bout an hour. Shawn told me he knows. I want to thank you both for being there for my big guy. Most of the time he is fine, but, this has brought it all up again. This, as hard and horrible as it is, is finally going to help him." Dean sighed softly.
Adam looked at Dean. "First, that watch is beautiful. Secondly, I hope so. Shawn is the one that finally made me stop bottling up my emotions about Bret. When I need to talk about him, Shawn is right there to listen. When I cry, Shawn is there to wipe my tears. Just be there for Roman. It's the best thing you can do." Adam's hand gently rubbed Shawn's thigh as he spoke.
Dean nodded. "Well first, it was my engagement gift from Roman, it belonged to his grandfather. Second, very good advice. I always stammer to say something to him. It's good to know that just being there is really enough."
"Trust me, Dean. It's enough. Gosh, he's been in there a long time. I hope they are alright, as much as can be that is." Adam looked at the closed private waiting room door.
Another hour passed. An nurse came to check on the waiting men.
"Please, ma'am. Did Kelly really go peacefully?" Dean looked at her with anxious eyes.
The nurse smiled softly and put a kind hand on Dean's shoulder. "Yes, hon, she did. She was just worn out. She was ready, I could see it in her eyes."
"Thank you, ma'am. I think we needed to hear that. Oh, I left some new coloring books and crayons for the children. I hope it was alright." Adam replied with a smile.
"I thought those must have come from you. Especially the WWE coloring books. I wish people knew that all the WWE does for children. This is far from the first time. It just amazes me that men, who beat each other up for a living, can be so gentle with children. You boys are simply wonderful. That family would be lost if you weren't here. Can I get you dear boys anything? Coffee, hot tea?" The nurse looked at the three men like a grandma would.
"No, thank you, ma'am." Adam, Shawn and Dean chorused at once. Shawn then spoke. "We like to give back to our fans. We wouldn't be who or where we are without them. The general public likes to call what we do fake. Yeah, it's so fake, my boy here is rehabbing four laminectomies and that was just an accident." Shawn had a fire in his eyes as he caressed Adam's back.
The nurse frowned. "You poor boy. It looks like your in excellent hands. Well, I have patients to check. If you need anything, just ask. Thank you again for the books and crayons." She gave the men a wave and left for her rounds.
Dean, Shawn and Adam all let out a sigh at the same time. They also looked at their watches. It wasn't that they were bored, they were concerned about their friends behind the closed door. Adam and Shawn, along with Roman had arrived at six- thirty that night, it was now one-thirty in the morning.
Dean got up and paced the floor. "Good thing Hunter gave Ro and I the week off. Don't have to work till TV in Little Rock. Oh, I forgot to tell you. All the guys are just devastated by the news. Hunter gave Enzo and Cass a few days off as well."
Shawn smiled a bit. "Hunter is a good man, he really does care. Is Carrano alright? He got attached too." He too got up to stretch his legs.
Dean stared out of the large plate glass picture window in the waiting room. In the far distance, the sky lit up with lightening. "He cried. Hunter wanted him to take some time off too, but Carrano refused. Said he'd rather work. Guess everybody is different."
Adam joined his fiancé and Dean at the window. Adam jumped when his cell phone vibrated. He had a new text message. Adam pulled his phone out of his inner blazer pocket.
Adam read the text out loud. "Called Jim, told him you were tied up and would he please go let the dogs out and feed them. Um.. just a thought Addy, maybe I should have a key to the door, for emergencies, like this. Give our love to the Brown's. Love J and H." He typed a reply of thanks and sent it.
Shawn put his arm around Adam's waist. "Never thought of that. I'll give him one of the extra keys. I'm glad he did that for the dogs. Bet those poor kids were ready to pop."
"Well, very rarely do they have an accident, but it happens. Not their fault if they aren't let out. Poor Branny got an infection once because he held it in so long. The housekeeper got the date wrong of the tour start, and Bret had gone with me. Poor things went twenty-four hours, no food, water or going outside. Storm is getting closer." Adam rambled. Shawn knew when Adam rambled, he was upset.
"It will be alright, darlin'. I would never get mad if one of the dogs had an accident. Doesn't Jason have a cat that flushes the toilet?" Shawn too rambled, what else was there to do?
Adam chuckled. "Yeah, it flushes the toilet, then uses it. Jay could never get the cat to go first, then flush." Adam sighed and leaned against Shawn.
Dean watched the storm approach. "I hope that won't delay flights. I'm taking Ro home as soon as possible. Spend a few days on the beach. It always rejuvenates him, brings out his inner Islander." Dean couldn't get his mind off the vision in his head. Roman, running on the beach, in his little black swim trunks, long hair flowing behind him, bronzed skin glowing in the setting sun. Dean let out a very deep sigh.
Adam looked at Dean. "Dean, he will be alright." He put a hand on the unstable one's shoulder.
Dean nodded. "I hope so, Adam. God, I love that man. If things go like I hope, I will be limping for a week." He gave Adam a very sly smirk and a wink.
Adam returned the wink. He thought, well that solves that riddle. Adam had always wondered who was the bottom, Dean or Roman. Mentally, Adam slapped himself; hard. Now was not the time for those kinds of thoughts.
The storm grew closer. All three men now sat and faced the window. With the lightening display, it was almost like watching a nature program on television.
Finally, at three-fifteen, a very exhausted Roman fell into the chair next to Dean. He buried himself in Dean's embrace. It took him a full ten minutes before he could speak.
"They're all sleeping now. The couch makes out into a bed and the boys are curled up in the big chairs. Dean, I'm paying for her funeral. It's going to be in two weeks. They have family in the military that will have to get leave. Mitch will not let Kelly be buried without her Uncle Hugo there. There is also family in Australia and Germany." Roman relayed the information through a few tears.
Dean pulled Roman closer. "I'll pay half, baby. Did you tell them about your Princess... our Princess?" Dean felt like Joanne was his step-daughter and Roman agreed.
Roman sniffed with a nod. "Adam, they're going to use your portrait of Kelly on the bulletin for the funeral. They're also going to have a poster made, to stand by her urn. Then, they will incorporate it into her headstone. I told them you would be pleased and proud for them to do that." He looked at the older blond.
Tears tracked down Adam's cheeks. "I am honored and humbled. Are we going to the funeral?" Adam asked with a hiccup.
Roman shook his head. "They felt really bad to say no, but, they don't want the WWE there to distract. I agreed and told them it was understandable. I said Shawn would hold a little memorial during one of the Sunday Bible Studies. Dean, get me outta here, please." He looked at his boy with tired, red-rimmed eyes.
"Come on, babe. Dean's here, I will always be here." Dean stood and supported his Big Dog. Dean looked at Shawn and Adam.
"Go on. We planned to get a taxi. Roman, thank you for helping the Browns. I am very sure they got a blessing from you." Shawn spoke as he stood, and then offered Adam a hand up.
Roman again shook his head. "No, bro. I got the blessing from them. Thank you. Goodnight." He hugged Adam and Shawn, as did Dean. Goodbyes were exchanged. Dean supported Roman as they walked out of the waiting room.
Adam stopped Shawn when they got to the nurses station. He asked the desk clerk for a pen and paper. Shawn looked up and called for a cab while Adam wrote.
When Adam finished, he gave the pen and note to the kind clerk. "Please, please make sure the Browns get this. It is very important." Adam's hazel eyes looked at the clerk with hazel anxiousness.
The clerk took the note. "I will, hon. I promise. I will personally deliver it." She gave Adam's hand a pat.
"Thank you. It's hard enough leaving them without saying good bye. But, I wouldn't wake them for the world. Please tell Mister and Missus Brown that they can call us any time... any time." Adam was nearly in tears. All he could think of was how humbled he was that they wanted to use his drawing of Kelly for something so very important
"I will, honey. You go home and get some sleep. They will be alright, we'll take good care of them." The clerk gave Adam another pat on the hand. Shawn held Adam's hand as they left the hospital.
The cab pulled up when Shawn opened the hospital door. The cab driver was a friendly older man and thankfully wasn't a talker. In contrast to the time it took to get to the hospital, it only took ten minutes to get to the arena parking lot and the coach.
Luckily, Jim had left the lights on. Adam went to the coach door, unlocked it and was greeted by three happy dogs. They went right out to their run and did their business immediately. Even though Jim had let them out, they had to go again.
"I'll stay out with them, darlin'. You go to bed. You look ready to drop." Shawn led Adam from the gate of the run to the steps. He gave Adam a very slow, love filled kiss.
"Thank you, babe. Can I skip the yoga tonight? Please?" Adam looked at Shawn with unintentional puppy eyes.
Shawn caressed his fiancé's face. "Of course my darling boy. Go to bed. I'll be there shortly. I love you, Adam." Shawn gave Adam another kiss.
"I love you, Shawn." Adam replied softly. He went into the coach and to the bathroom. Tired as he was, Adam had to shower the smell of hospital from his body.
An hour later, the dogs were settled on their blankets and Shawn too, had showered. When Shawn crawled into bed, Adam snored softly, a sure sign he was sound asleep. Adam never stirred when Shawn pulled Adam into his arms. Just as Shawn closed his own eyes, the rain began to fall. The storm had lessened as was now just a late summer thunder storm.
It was nearly noon when Adam and Shawn woke up. They both noticed they were moving. They were on their way to the next town; Little Rock, Arkansas, which was also the state Capitol.
"Good mornin', darlin'. Did you get a good sleep?" Shawn asked as he stretched his wrestle worn body.
Adam yawned. "I'm surprised, but, I did. Oh Shawn, I feel like we just abandoned the Browns." He snuggled up against Shawn and curled his fingers in the Heartbreak Kid's fine, soft chest hairs.
Shawn kissed the top of Adam's head. "I understand. However, we did what we were supposed to do. You and I were led to the Browns. We brought Roman to them. You were led to draw that portrait. I was led to bring them to Raw. I can fully understand why they don't want us at the funeral. The gutter press would focus on us, say we were there to make the WWE look good. Kelly probably wouldn't even get a mention. Darlin', it's hard for me too. I would have loved to have had prayer with them, but, obviously it wasn't meant to be. Roman and the Brown's helped each other. I feel, this was really Roman's time; to heal his pain. That is a wonderful thing for Kelly to have done. I'll do a memorial on Sunday. We can film it, send it to the Browns. Have Hunter, Enzo, Cass and whoever else wants to, record a message for them. It would be our way of honoring Kelly." Shawn spoke thoughtfully.
Adam looked up at Shawn with a smile. "That is a wonderful idea. The media never has to know. I think you're right too, about Roman. Well, I guess we'd better get up. I wonder where we are?" He sighed and sat up.
Shawn and Adam did their yoga. Adam did a few extra back bends. For the first time, Adam was able to touch his toes. That morning, he put on his socks and Adam managed one shoe before it became too painful. Shawn praised his boy as he tied Adam's other sneaker.
The dogs greeted their humans, at least Shine and Tundra did. Adam laughed. "Branny must be in Jim's lap. Daddy will feed you, hang on." Adam gave their ears a love filled scratch.
Shawn filled the dogs bowls with a mixture of wet and dry dog food. Adam put out stuff for sandwiches as they opted for lunch over breakfast. When Shawn finished with the dogs, he went to the cockpit to talk to Cal and Jim.
When he returned, Shawn sat down on bench with Adam. "We're just a few miles from the Arkansas border. Branny is with Jim, sound asleep. Pass the ham the please." Shawn explained as he made a ham and cheese sandwich.
An hour later, the coach pulled over. It was time to let the dogs run. Cal found roadside park with a dog area. While Jim and Adam played with the dogs, Shawn filled Cal in about their trip to the hospital and the Browns. After all, Jim and Cal had met them when the Brown's came to the coach.
"That poor family. I can't say I'm sorry she died... no... no... how to say it..." Cal bit his lip as he struggled for the right words to say.
Shawn put a hand on the man's shoulder. "I know what you're trying to say. Her death is a blessing to end her pain and suffering. We mourn her loss from physical life, but celebrate her eternal life in Heaven. If you want, on Sunday, we are going to make a video for the family, to say things to honor Kelly. You and James are welcome to leave a message for them."
Calvin quickly swiped his eyes. "Thank you. We'd be proud to." He then whistled and waved for men and dogs to come back to the coach. Jim held up his hand to say it would be five more minutes.
Soon the hot, tired dogs were asleep on their beds. Adam relaxed on the couch with one of his new books. Shawn had kicked back in his recliner and watched television.
Mid afternoon found Cal and Jim setting up the coach with Shawn's help. Adam was up and took the dogs for a walk. The dogs walked easy as they sensed their mommy still couldn't walk as quickly as usual.
Shawn gave Cal the key to their cabin, and bid them farewell until Saturday. The cabins at the North Little Rock KOA were on the other side of the property well away from the RVs and other coaches.
Shawn had just lit the barbecue grill when Adam returned with the dogs. Shawn noticed Adam had been crying. He gave Adam a worried look as his boy put the dogs in their run.
Adam sat in his chair. He pulled out his cell phone. His thumbs hovered over the keypad as he thought about the text he wanted to send. He gave a very deep sigh. Adam swiped his face with his hands.
Shawn made sure the coals were lit, then he went to Adam. He stood behind his blond and put his hands on Adam's shoulders. He gently massaged the muscles gently.
"Want to talk about it, darlin'?" Shawn asked quietly. What ever it was, it showed in the tension in Adam's neck.
Adam just haded Shawn his cell phone. "Read it, and tell me how to answer." His voice was filled with emotion.
Shawn took Adam's phone and Sat in his chair. He read the email that was on the phone. "Dear Adam. I just wanted to thank you for everything you and Shawn did for us. We were humbled beyond belief at what everyone in the WWE did for us on Monday night. It was all Kelly could talk about. When we got to the hospital on Tuesday mornings, Kelly had to go through some very painful tests. Talking about RAW and holding Roman's teddy bear, kept her from screaming in pain. Oh Adam, I can't begin to say enough thanks for the beautiful portrait of Kelly. Because of you, we will always have her happy smile to look at when we feel like we can't carry on. Don't feel bad about leaving without saying goodbye. Friends never really say goodbye, we just say, see you later. Our paths will cross again when God wants them to. It's going to be a long two weeks, but when we get down, we will think of our friends at the WWE and the smile they put on Kelly's face and the joy and happiness in her heart. We love you and Shawn and wish you love and happiness in your upcoming marriage. Bret would be so proud of you. All our love, the family of Kelly Judith Brown."
"Her middle name is... that... is some email. Makes me feel humbled and it was written to you." Shawn put down Adam's cell phone. He took Adam's hand in his. He brought Adam's hand to his lips and kissed the back of it.
"How do I answer that, Shawn? I'm just so humbled. I just... do you think thank you is enough?" Adam looked at Shawn with question etched onto his face.
Shawn smiled with a slight nod. "Yeah, I do, darlin'. Sometimes, the simplest words can mean so much. Especially when they come from the heart. Why don't you send your message, then we'll put on our trunks and go to the pool. Swimming is great for your rehab and your scars are completely closed and healed. I checked the list, swimming is number one for strengthening and stretching your muscles." Shawn hoped to cheer Adam, he knew Adam was a secret water baby.
Adam perked up. "Sounds good, babe. You in a Speedo, my sexy boy." Adam gave Shawn a sly wink.
Shawn rolled his eyes with a chuckle. "I'll take the dogs in. It's cooler for them. Take your time with that, darlin'." Shawn indicated to the cell phone. He kissed Adam and went to do what he needed to do.
Adam turned serious again. He picked up his cell phone and hit reply to Mitch's email. He began to type. "Dearest friends. These words are simple, but they come from my heart and soul. Thank you. I am so honored that we managed to bring you the smallest of comfort. We will always be here for you. The next time we are in the Omaha-Lincoln area, you will again have VIP seats. Thank you again and we love you all so much. Wishing you all the love and comfort in the world. All our love, Shawn and Adam. P.S. Kelly has my mother's name as her middle name, that makes her even more special to me. Love, Adam."
Adam finally felt satisfied. He knew the Brown's would soon be in the embrace of their family, friends and church.
Shawn came out of the coach. He wore his long, terry cloth beach robe with a towel around his neck. He had a towel for Adam in his hand.
"Shawnnie, what about the barbecue? The coals will be past it by the time we get back?" Adam asked as he went up the steps to go in to change.
"Go change. I'll set the alarms. I'll put the fire out. We can either pan fry the steaks, or I'll start new charcoal. I think you getting in some swim time is more important." Shawn stated as he moved to the barbecue grill.
Adam turned to Shawn as he opened the door. "Okay. We can decide later. I'll be right back. Oh, did you get the sunscreen?"
Shawn patted the side pocket of his robe. Even in the late afternoon sun, a person could burn, especially with no shade around the pool. He set the intruder alarms for ten feet. He would activate it with the remote in his other pocket.
It wasn't long before Adam came out of the coach in a robe and sandals that matched Shawn's. Adam also wore his long hair in pony tail and he had a Hart Foundation snapback cap on his head. His every day aviator sunglasses framed his face.
Hand in hand the couple walked a few feet. Shawn stopped and pushed the remote that set the alarms. They walked toward the pool. The pool was an Olympic sized. A few round redwood tables with umbrellas and matching chairs sat around the deck. There were also several redwood chaise lounge chairs with thick cushions covered with towels for protection.
Shawn opened the gate and Adam passed through. "Wow, it's empty, in this weather?" Adam's question was more of a statement as they picked a table near the steps that led down into the water.
Shawn joined his future husband. "Guess there aren't a lot of kids this time of year and the older folks are probably eating dinner." Shawn untied his robe and waited for Adam's reaction.
Adam's jaw dropped. "Board shorts! You wore knee length board shorts! Shawnnie! That is not fair!" Adam whined like a spoiled child who'd been told no.
Shawn smirked. "Never said I would wear a Speedo." He teased Adam. It was Shawn's turn to drop his jaw as his boy took off his robe.
Adam wore a black Speedo that rode so low, his "V" hip dents were clearly visible. It was so tiny, it barely covered anything. He looked over at Shawn.
Adam would have sworn he saw drool drip from Shawn's open mouth. "Like what you see?" Adam did a few turns and ended with a twist that made his left hip stick out.
Adam looked down. His smile turned to a frown. He quickly wrapped his towel around his hips. He started for the gate. "Gonna change." He muttered under his breath.
Shawn knew exactly what was wrong. Adam had seen the two long, still slightly pink scars on his hip. Shawn caught Adam by the wrist and pulled Adam against him.
"Why, darlin'? You have the most beautiful body. Why not show it off. I'm proud that others will envy what is mine. I didn't even notice them, baby. It was too busy drooling over that luscious ass." Shawn whispered softly but firmly over Adam's lips. His turquoise eyes stared into Adam's hazels.
Adam blinked. "Really? You... think I'm still beautiful? I can only imagine how horrible my back looks. I... didn't... think..." Adam sniffed.
Shawn chuckled. "My pretty little diva. Now get that towel off and get in that pool." He gave Adam a sweet, proper public kiss.
"I love you, Shawn. Thank you. I'm sorry I acted to so childish. What are a few scars after what... no, not gonna be sad any more. Come on, I'll race ya!" Adm tossed the towel over a chair and dove perfectly into the deep end.
Shawn laughed and dove in after Adam. They swam a few easy laps to loosen up. Shawn ran Adam through some light water aerobics he'd researched.
After two hours in the pool, the couple got out and dried off. They slipped into their robes and sandals. Adam put on his cap and Shawn wore his old cowboy hat. They walked hand in hand once again, back to their home on wheels.
Even though they were tired from all the water exercises, after hot showers, they felt well refreshed. They took the dogs outside and later feasted on a meal of char grilled steaks, potatoes and corn on the cob. Both men ate two steaks along with two full plates of sides. It was delicious and their conversation was light.
As Adam peacefully watched his dogs chase the last of the fireflies, one thing was on his mind. It wasn't about Kelly Brown, it was focused on a happy thought.
Adam's thoughts were on his and Shawn's wedding... mainly the wedding night.