THE FINALE THAT WILL CHANGE EVERYTHING

by falmur

After we first met Clark, I knew he would mean troubles . This starts from his wife's death and It's a long journey . Trial, Zola, finally mc Baby

37. BREAKING POINTS

I'm sorry I had you wait but there are good reasons. First I went on holiday and my husband said: me or your ipad. I had to pick my husband and I couldn't work for 10 days. As you may notice, this update is very long, I worked hard on it. I hope you'll enjoy and send me lots, lots, lots of reviews, complains, appreciations... whatever you like. But you'll let me know you're still in this.

Probably some of you will be a little disappointed. But I promise you great (it depends on points of you) things for next update.

I'll start to work on it tomorrow, I don't how much it will take. But let me feel your support and I'll try to be quick.

Kisses

P.S. I've tried to change a bit my writing style, I tried but it's hard. I wait comments even on that.

---

Everyone has a breaking point.

It's kind of assumed.

You stand… you accept… you take…

And suddenly you're done. You can't do it anymore.

What happens next?

What happens when we lose patience? What happens when the dwelling gets broken?

Will you keep control of yourself or will you become someone you didn't know and recognize as your usual self?

---

It's morning and Mark is signing a chart at the nurses station. The hallway is alive and crowded, nurses and doctors walk up and down the corridor to join their places and patients. Even Brad is busy scrabble his name on the charts Meredith filled for him. Despite the closeness, they aren't talking to each other, everyone concerned in his job. Owen arrives at the desk and flips a chart open on the table. Mark raises his eyes to look at him and he immediately realizes his college's face is covered in a thin beard, his shirt is rubbed and Sloan notices it's the same he was wearing the day before. More than that, Hunt looks tired even if it's early morning.

The trauma surgeon is thinking back to the steamy night he had with Cristina. His soul is fighting with itself: he is obviously happy for the closeness they got, for the time they spent pleasuring each other, on the other hand Hunt was clearly feeling the strangeness of the situation, the not casualness which brings Cristina to act like a horny teen ager. He sighs thinking of the topic he so would like to face… He sighs once again: does he really want to face her on this? Owen is well aware of Cristina's essence: she's a strong woman, self confident, work focused. He knows she loves him, he can feel it. Will that be enough to decide one day to set work aside and build a family with him? Just the thought of it… Cristina's and his family let his heart bit faster…

Mark: you ok?

Owen: yeah… yeah… I'm good

Mark: night shift? (Owen chuckles and shakes his head smiling. His eyes meet for a second with Mark's and he looks away. Mark grins widely) Hot night… (he pats his shoulder) Usually it's a good thing. It had a bad effect on you though (Owen breaths out expecting the jockey and bitter remarks he's going to get, he regrets he let his emotions come out with Mark Sloan) Just pull yourself together, Hunt. If your girlfriend saw you like this, she'd feel hurt.

Owen: she's too concerned in jumping me every time to get I can be disappointed.

Mark: you're disappointed as you're lover wants to make you every day and night? (Brad is still drawn in his charts but has been following the conversation from the beginning, he chuckles and Owen rolls his eyes) What's wrong with you, man? You should be cheerful and happy. Look at Brad, here (Owen looks at the new doctor resigned and Brad is grinning again). He had a date yesterday and he's the image of living happiness this morning. I guess his lady was worth the bill.

Brad: you couldn't be more wrong (Mark's face drops). She was nothing. I wasted three evenings trying to get into her pants and she proved to be not worth the effort. I dressed up the faster I could and left during the night. I hope I won't hear of her ever again (Mark and Owen look stunned). Don't look at me like that… I had to know. When you have someone in your mind, all other women are nothing but consolation and rebound meat.

Mark: uhm uhm (he looks up and sees Derek approaching in his labcoat) Lucky me Sheperd is coming to my rescue. We'll be pairs now. Two disgraced men and two joyful… (Derek smiles to him and Hunt and leans at the nurses station)

Derek: what should I be happy for?

Mark: for your sentimental life. As I am. Having a steady and rocky relationship make everything lighter.

Derek: I'm not used to hear you talk like this…

Owen: you're not the only one…

Mark: don't turn the attention to me (he leans towards Derek and bumps his hip with his own) Apparently your wife's buddy is sucking the life out of him. She doesn't let him any break if you get what I mean.

Derek: uhm… (his face softens and his lips curl in a weak smile. Owen looks embarrassed, he starts doing charts again trying to escape the discussion) I don't think his girlfriend's libido is something he wants to share with the whole hospital.

Mark: I don't get why… (Owen rolls his eyes at him)

Derek: Mark…

Mark: but ok… I'll stop to make conversation about that.

Owen: thank you

Mark: and what about you?

Brad: nothing more I said. A bad fuck waiting for the best of my life (both Derek and Owen get serious, shock painted on their faces. Derek's jaw tightens and he looks away, Mark becomes doubtful too)

Mark: you know what's your problem?

Brad: no

Mark: you'll never find the right girl if you speak like that. I mean… sex is good. But if you don't switch your language from fuck to making love… if you don't change your mind and get ready to find the love of your life… you'll be miserable all over again (Brad closes the chart he was reading)

Brad: was that a hallmark?

Mark: no… I read it on a magazine

Brad: well thank you… but I know how to make me happy and who can make me happy. If you excuse me, gentlemen (he walks away and the three doctors look at him)

Mark: was I like that?

Derek: I hate to say it… but you were never that mean and superficial.

Owen: he sounds disturbing

Mark: I wish he'll find a hot lady who will slap his ugly face (his pager beeps and he looks at it) My bride waits for me (Derek and Owen look at him stunned)

Derek: did you ask Little Grey to marry you?

Mark: no… no… my God. How did you come up with that?

Derek: you said your bride…

Mark: my patient… my patient is … wants to be a bride and she had surgery for that. I'm not going to get married… not yet (he leaves and Derek laughs after his back)

Owen: so he's doing serious now…

Derek: I think so (Derek looks up and sees Owen looking straight at him). He looks like he is… Commitment is a huge step for men like Markie. But he's doing fine. And what about you? (Owen looks away without talking. Even if he grew to like Sheperd, he isn't so sure he wants to discuss this with him. Talking would make the problem real and it feels so wrong now. Cristina would take it like a betrayal. And Hunt knows pissing her off is the worst idea ever, if he wants a chance to talk to her, a real chance to have a debate, he has to be careful and keep things for himself. Derek feels Hunt is contended and he gets his reasons. Cristina has become a steady part of his own life too, their relationship has improved a lot lately, he got used to her night visits, the bed sharing, he knows she was a real support for Meredith and he is grateful for her presence. Still he knows she is a difficult person to deal with. She is determined and arrogant and despite the fact he doesn't know that much of her intimate life, thank God there are still some boundaries on, he knows that her behavior, her attitude is out of normalcy and is shaking the ground under Hunt's feet. And he wants to help. Finally he is an expert when it comes to the twisted sisters, right?). I'm not interested in your… privacy. But I don't think you'd live that as a problem. Unless there's something which makes it a problem.

Owen: the problem is that Cristina refuses to talk to me. Every time I try to start a conversation she brings sex up… I thought she was just living a high at first but… it's lasting for too long now. I know it may sound stupid to complain about it.

Derek: it's not. Twisted sisters use sex to avoid topics. Meredith used to do that too. She had instated the "S & M" in our relationship.

Owen: "S & M"?

Derek: sex and mockery. We could have sex and we could joke but nothing else. No eating together, no spending the night together after or before, no talking. I accepted it first. The I got I was just fooling myself. I wanted the conversation too, I wanted a girlfriend.

Owen: so I should turn her down and bring the conversation up?

Derek: if it's important, you should. She'll never (Owen's pager beeps and he looks at it)

Owen: It's the ER (Derek's pager beeps too)

Derek: let's go

---

Meredith and Cristina are sitting in the cafeteria. Meredith is reading a magazine while Cristina is clipping her nails.

Cristina: so you'll keep working with McAss… (Meredith giggles looking up to her friend)

Meredith: yes. But he improved a lot after the day he spent with you. I guess you scared him.

Cristina: finally somebody got him to humbleness… You were too soft with him.

Meredith: maybe it's just because I didn't want to turn my life on his service into a living hell. I took his stupid jokes and ignored his cockiness. Sometimes this is a good exercise too.

Cristina: you say so? Take the bull by the horns is the way I know to face problems (Meredith looks up to her, Cristina is keeping her work with the clip, Meredith eyes catch a red spot on her friend's neck)

Meredith: and I see you got hurt yesterday night (Cristina chuckles)

Cristina: how is it I'd be hurt?

Meredith: the bull hit you before you could tame him (Cristina looks at her frowning). You have got a hickey the size of my fist on your neck.

Cristina: where? (she rubs her neck to check her skin)

Meredith: on your left (Cristina gets to the point and touches the skin). I wouldn't call what you're doing with Owen a brave rodeo.

Cristina: I'm sorry to disagree… It's really a rodeo and I'm a cowgirl… I ride him all night long (Meredith closes her eyes and flinches).

Meredith: this is not mature and you know it

Cristina: this is totally mature. Hot, pornographic, mature sex (Meredith's face is disgusted). Come on, Mer… How did you become so chaste? You screwed McDreamy in every room of this hospital and of your home. I couldn't remember a time I didn't knock at your place and didn't find you on top of him… Are you jealous?

Meredith: no, of course. Derek and me are perfectly fine, our relationship is healthy and we went back to the pre-accident sex rate if you really want to know it.

Cristina: oh, thank God. You'll stop hovering now.

Meredith: no, I won't. As I'm worried for you.

Cristina: well, don't. There's no need to be.

Meredith: oh really? How long do you think you can go on stopping Owen's mouth kissing him?

Cristina: it's been ten days now and it keeps working.

Meredith: well it won't forever. He wants a conversation with you. He may be horny and enjoy all the crazy sex, but he knows you're handcuffing him to bed to have him shut up… (Cristina looks surprised at her)

Cristina: did he actually tell you that? (Meredith raises her brows and looks around)

Meredith: what?

Cristina: that I handcuffed him to the headboard…

Meredith: my God, no… Wait… did you? (Cristina grins and crosses her arms behind her head) You're nauseating… (she closes her magazine and sips her coffee)

Cristina: try it with Derek. Owen was delighted (Meredith stands up)

Meredith: I don't care (she walks around the table and sets a hand on Cristina's shoulder). And for the record… I could give anyone lectures how to tie a naked man to the bed.

Brad: I knew the day would be worth the very early rising… (Meredith looks up and sees Brad in front of her, he has a mischievous grin stretching his lips. Meredith flinches as she gets to be under his scrutiny. Cristina starts giggling). Anyway let's cool down for now… We are needed in the ER, dr. Grey (Meredith's face blushes violently and then goes back to normal)

Meredith: sure

They start walking outside the cafeteria, Meredith sends a last glare to Cristina who waves her fingers smiling. Brad walks behind his resident, his eyes never leaving her swaying hips and her ass, an appreciative smile painted on his face. Greg Brad had always been an example of latin lover, or McWhore, like they started to call him in Seattle. And the truth was that he wasn't even bothered. He was flattered. He had never planned to settle anywhere, and Seattle was surely the last place he could decide to do it. But there had been something in the woman in front of him who had caught his attention immediately. It was not just beauty… he had known beautiful women in New York, he had also dated some. It was something else… the thrill of the chase, the thrill of hitting on someone and getting her even if she was clearly so off market. And pissing Derek Sheperd off… well … that was an added bonus. The more Brad knew Meredith Grey the more he wondered how she could end up with a jerk like Sheperd. And no surprise, he doubled his efforts to pee on his boss' feet. Meredith Grey was the only thing which poisoned his mind, she was the example of how a person with a difficult past and family issues could fight her nature and grow up. And that was why he was so determined to blow her life: this change was impossible for people like him and her. And he was rally determined to prove it. Mostly to himself.

---

Alex joins the pediatric area and gets closer the incubator the baby with damaged kidney is. He leans his hand towards the glass smiling at the baby stirring inside. A nurses passes by and he gets back his composure.

Alex: would you give me the chart, please? (after some second the nurse comes back and handles him the folder. He opens it and takes a look inside, flipping the pages)

Lucy: it's illegal and against privacy to look into patients' charts when the patient in object is not yours (Alex startles but relaxes when he notices Lucy is smiling despite the strict tone she used). You could come here and ask me how he was doing (she gestures him to give her the chart back), you didn't need to hide like a burglar.

Alex: I wasn't sneaking… I've been here sometimes in the last few days but he was never here. I just wanted to know how the recovery was going.

Lucy: perfectly. That's why you didn't find him here. He was upstairs to make rehab. And, if everything goes on this way, he'll go home within the end of the week.

Alex: good. I'm happy to hear that.

Lucy: are you working with dr. Robbins today? (Alex looks at her, he doesn't want to fool himself but he feels a hint of hope in her voice)

Alex: no. I went back to Sloan's service. I've just decided to pay a visit before my shift (he looks at his clock quickly). It started five minutes ago actually, it's better I go or Sloan will kick my ass.

Lucy: come and visit us whenever you want, dr. Karev.

Alex: yeah… have a nice day (he turns around and walks down the corridor, he opens the door and runs downstairs, after two floors he exits to the main hall and he bumps into Lexie. She was carrying stuff and treatments, everything falls to the ground. She narrows her eyes at him)

Lexie: what the hell, Alex!

Alex: what the hell Lexie… (they both knee to pick up stuff) Can't you look in front of you?

Lexie: I was. You've just got out of the stairs without looking.

Alex: yeah… like you want. What the hell were you doing with all this crap?

Lexie: this crap was headed to the clinic. We're starting the lectures today.

Alex: I know. And what these are for? (he takes a box and rolls it in his hand, he then reads the content and Lexie pulls it out of his grasp)

Lexie: you really forgot what condoms are for?

Alex: no (they straighten up)

Lexie: well, if you did, the lecture starts at 15 . I'll find you a spot, a private one (she goes away and Alex enters the plastics department)

---

Bailey arrives in the attending lounge, she notices Callie is looking at her smiling brightly. She frowns at her, setting her bag onto the bench.

Bailey: hey…

Callie: good morning (the smile doesn't leave her face and Bailey keeps looking at her)

Bailey: did you suffer a permanent paralyses?

Callie: no, I'm fine

Bailey: it doesn't look like you're fine (she takes off her coat and settles it on the bag. She turns to look at her locker and she stops suddenly realizing there's a red rose on it. She looks quickly to Callie whose face has the same expression it had before, then to the locker then to Callie again)

Callie: it's so romantic…

Bailey: who the hell did this?

Callie: I don't know. It was already there when I arrived an hour ago

Bailey: you've been in here for an hour?

Callie: I really didn't want to miss this… Anyway… there's a way to be sure from who it comes from (she gestures with her head to the flower, Bailey bends her face and notices a little card) if you really want to pretend you don't know it yet (Bailey takes the card and gestures Callie to shut up. She opens the little envelop and pulls the sheet a little bit up. She starts to read the first line and pushes the card inside again rolling her eyes. She looks around and stops staring at Callie)

Bailey: don't you have anything to do this morning?

Callie: not really… I can stay here if you want me to… (she smiles at her expectantly)

Bailey: no. I don't need you to breathe on my neck. And I'm a doctor, you know. I took a degree, I can read. So leave me alone and go to do your job (Callie walks out of the room, she closes the door behind her back and Bailey reopens the envelop. She smiles reading the card. She hears the door opening again and she snorts) I told you I can read this crap on my own

Ben: crap? (Bailey turns around stunned and narrows her eyes in complete surprise) It took me all the evening to find the proper words to devote you. And now you're saying they're crap… (he shakes his head but the irony is touchable in his voice). I knew my mum was right… I had to put more effort in poetry lectures (Bailey giggles and lowers her eyes on the precious gift, she feels a pressure on her thigh and find Ben sitting in front of her) now I could be getting my prize…

Bailey: what would it be?

Ben: a nice word…

Bailey: thank you. It was really… (she meets Ben's eyes and speech fails her, she looks up searching for word) it was really nice.

Ben: that's it?

Bailey: and tender

Ben: better… You're not used to play with rhymes yourself, are you? (Bailey slaps his knee playfully)

Bailey: you know I'm not. But this (she waves her card and flower)… this was the cutest present I got for a very long time…

Ben: I'm happy you liked it… So I could even hope for a better prize, maybe? (he looks expectantly at her and Miranda pretends not to get what he wants)

Bailey: better than the poetry I told you?

Ben: much more (he gets closer very slowly, letting her time to back off. But she doesn't and their lips meet. When they part, they share a little smile and then Ben stands up) I have to go now… I have a surgery in twenty minutes

Bailey: just go

Ben: see you at lunch?

Bailey: I'll keep you a spot

Ben: I heard there's gonna be a sex lecture at the clinic at 15. Do you think…

Bailey: just go (he chuckles and finally leaves)

---

Richard enters the clinic. Despite being the new opening day and the fact there's a little celebration planned, anybody's in the room. Webber stops just after the door, he takes a deep breath looking at the wide room in front of him, everything has been cleaned up and ordered, there are beds done, the shelves are full of supplies, the terminal behind the desk is on. Richard can't help but remembering the day the Denny Duquette clinic was first inaugurated. There was a lot of people then, there were journalists to clap at the generous and philanthropic initiative, there were dozens of doctors enthusiastic about taking part in it, about giving their talent and time free. There were all his interns, dr. O'Malley and Dr. Stevens. Life looked so different. Webber had never felt old before. Even after he had decided to step down and had started interviews to give the command to one of his attending, he was full of forces and will, it wasn't his tiredness to push him off the throne. Not for work, at least. Adele had finally blackmailed him, after all the years of sharing and comprehension, she had given him an out. And he had taken it. For he loved her, sure. But also for the guilt he felt, the ghost of Ellis Grey still sending dark and sad shadows on their marriage. Now it was different. Adele had come back into his life when he had lost hope, he was living a second youth, enjoying the ER, the teaching, surgery. Paper work and bureaucratic stuff had become suddenly a burden and he wanted to give it up. To who? Who was the one taking his job? The answer was not so sure at the point, he would have said Derek three months before, now… everything had got so messed up. A vibration coming from his left pocket called him back to reality. He took his cell off and checked the id, breathing out realizing it was Patricia. He approached the desk and picked the phone up, composing the intern.

Richard: Patricia, it's me. What? (he frowns hearing the message) No, I wasn't waiting for him. But let him wait in my office. I'll be back in ten minutes (he hangs off and makes some step to the door to go back to the hospital. Before he can open it, Adele appears smiling at him)

Adele: chief…

Richard: Adele (he kisses her on the forehead). What are you doing here? (he's smiling sweetly to his wife but Adele changes expression, she becomes serious)

Adele: having breakfast with you as agreed? (she frowns and Richard gets serious too) You forgot, didn't you?

Richard: to tell the truth I thought we had agreed for tomorrow… but I can have misunderstood.

Adele: yeah, you have. You have so much stuff in your small head than not everything can stay in. Don't worry though… I'm used to you passing dates by.

Richard: I'm sorry… Can I offer you a coffee at least?

Adele: ok… and maybe dinner out tonight?

Richard: ok… I owe you (he sets his arm around her shoulders and gently leads her through the door). Let's go upstairs. Patricia has just told me I have an unexpected visitor, ten minutes and I'll be yours.

Adele: I can't wait (they walk through the corridors and Webber smiles to everyone, he nods in acknowledgment to nurses and doctors, Adele looks at him stunned). And when did you become so groupy?

Richard: what?

Adele: the public relation thing… Last time we discussed it, you mentioned it was of vital importance to keep the distance and be feared

Richard: I realized it was an old and over estimated drill. Being respected… that's what I want. That's what fits a chief (he narrows his eyes at her and arrives in front of his office. His look immediately sets on the visitor, who stands up and gets closer) Dr. Avery… (Jackson's grandfather smiles at him shaking his hand)

Avery: Webber… it's nice to see you… And this must be your wife (he takes her hand and kisses it) Long time no see, Mrs. Webber.

Adele: I got the chance to miss your boring and sad surgical meetings lately (Avery chuckles)

Avery: sometimes I wished I could miss them too… (Richard clears his throat and Avery looks back at him)

Richard: I didn't expect you. Are you ok?

Avery: of course I am. I'm not here for my health (he looks around and Richard acknowledges the presence of a lot of curious people)

Richard: let's go to my office (he opens the door and Avery goes in, Webber turns to face Adele) I'll call you later, ok?

Adele: ok

Richard: sorry for our breakfast

Adele: don't be (Richard kisses her on the cheek and she leaves, he enters his office closing the door behind his back)

Richard: so… what do I owe the pleasure? I hope you won't be here to bitch on your nephew's assignment… (he sinks in his chair adjusting his eyeglass. Avery gets comfortable in his chair too)

Avery: you know I wouldn't interfere in a college's choices

Richard: no? (he chuckles and Avery smiles)

Avery: no when he did what was for the best. I was happy to know Avery went in general. I was scared he'd pick ortho or some stupid minor specialty. He'll be fine in general… with you. But… going to my aim, I didn't come here for that (Richard looks at him, any emotion is detectable on his face) Come on… don't tell me you don't get why I took the trouble to come here…

Richard: actually, I don't

Avery: right… let's pretend you really don't. I'll use the official protocol. As you may remember, Harper Avery nominees were published three months ago. Last week we endured the final voting. I wanted to tell you before delivering the news to the winner and to the world wide medical community… Sheperd won… Hands down (he takes a paper form his briefcase and sets it on Richard's desk, Webber takes it). The praxis is that he'll receive the award during an official ceremony which will take place here in Seattle in three weeks.

Richard: finally you considered him… (Richard gives him the paper back and Avery takes it)

Avery: I don't want to turn this into a fight… You know how these things work Richard. There are people in the committee which pretended he was nothing till ten days ago. They just couldn't do it anymore (he stands up and Richard does too) Will you show me the way, Webber?

Richard: it will be a pleasure

---

In the visit room a group of doctors is working around the patient, a man in his 50 with a lot of injuries. His head is blocked by a collar, his eyes are moving nervously scanning the room.

Brad and Meredith are making tests on his consciousness and the capability to follow orders and instructions. Owen and Reed are packing a wound on his side, Teddy and Cristina are checking the results displayed on monitors.

Meredith: mr. Lewis, will you remember three words for me?

Lewis: I can try…

Meredith: apple, plane and dog (the man start to repeat them silently) Try to keep them in mind, I'll ask you in a few minutes (Meredith writes some note and Brad is still doing his exam. He touches the man's cheekbones, his forehead)

Brad: there's no sign of fracture (he touches the man's skull too). The skull looks intact too. We'll run and MRI just to be sure. Do you remember what happened?

Lewis: I was working on the rigging with my son. We were fixing some pipes. I told him to fix one… I held it in place for him but… He hit my hand with the hammer. I recoiled and… fell off.

Brad: how high?

Lewis: I don't know. We were on the second floor…

Brad: so 15 feet? High

Lewis: I guess… (the man winces trying to move his leg. Owen holds him down)

Owen: we're almost done, mr. Lewis. Just hold on for one second

Lewis: I… (he closes his eyes breathing out, Owen eyes Meredith to keep the patient busy. Meredith goes standing in front of the man and takes his hand squeezing it)

Meredith: mr. Lewis… it's time for my three words. Can you remember them?

Lewis: dog… apple… plane

Meredith: that's it. Well done…

Brad: I think I can exclude neurological damages. There's a concussion, that's sure. I suggest a MRI. You were lucky, mr. Lewis.

Lewis: really?

Owen: let's wait to say it (monitors start to beep and Teddy approaches Owen)

Teddy: there's a light arythmia. It could be the shock… the adrenalin. I'd keep him monitored though.

Owen: what if I have to take him into surgery?

Teddy: page me if you have. I'll let Cristina here to monitor him.

Owen: ok

Teddy: Yang… watch enzymes and cardiac rhythm. Page me if it gets faster (Cristina nods and Teddy leaves)

Lewis: do you think I can see my son? (Meredith and Owen exchange a worried look)

Meredith: I think you should try to rest, mr. Lewis

Lewis: I'm fine… at least so you keep saying. I just want to have three words with him… I don't want him to feel guilty… please… (Owen looks at Meredith and then nods)

Meredith: I'll go to look for him (she leaves the room and walks to the waiting area. She stops to search the people waiting till she notices a boy in his 20. The guy looks frightened, his eyes run form the walls to the floor to the people surrounding him. Meredith walks towards him and the boy seems to freeze) Are you Tim? (he nods and looks down, Meredith sits near him rubbing his arm)

Tim: I killed him… I did actually kill my father

Meredith: he's fine, Tim.

Tim: you lie…

Meredith: no, I'm not. Come and see by yourself. He wants to talk to you (she stands up waiting for him to do the same but he doesn't budge and Meredith sits back, the boy is sniffling) I know you feel guilty but you shouldn't. You made a mistake… you didn't make it on purpose. He's going to be fine…

Tim: he's… (now he's crying loudly) I did it on purpose. I hit him (Meredith's face becomes a mask of disbelief). I wanted it to be something stupid… just a hit with my hummer… I didn't think he would recoil… (Meredith is thunderstruck and stays there while the boy keeps crying)

---

Derek is in a visit room. He looks at his clock snorting and leans on the gurney. He rubs his eyes tiredly. The door suddenly opens and Avery enters the room.

Avery: morning dr. Sheperd

Derek: dr. Avery… (Jackson smiles at him, he settles a little box on the gurney and wears a pair of rubber gloves)

Avery: I'm sorry I had you wait. The journey from the clinic was longer than expected. I had to earn space using my elbows. The waiting area is full of people waiting for the lecture.

Derek: safe sex is always a good bait

Avery: if you say so… you're surely a better fisherman than I am

Derek: probably… (he raises the sleeve of his labcoat and unbuttons his shirt wristband, he raises the shirt too discovering his forearm) I'm sorry dr. Bailey assigned you to do this.

Avery: it's not a bother, sir

Derek: I know, I'm a case now… (Derek smiles to Avery and the resident smiles back) Not so important and not so complicated… I don't know why Bailey takes so many precautions… (Avery takes the chart and reads some note. He picks a pen out of his pocket)

Avery: any fever in the last 24 hours?

Derek: no. And not in the previous 24.

Avery: so all the symptoms disappeared two days ago?

Derek: yes

Avery: would you define it a flu or…

Derek: just a cold. And a fever. Nothing to worry about.

Avery: ok… We'll take some blood anyway (he takes the needle and gets closer, Derek sits on the gurney and stretches his arm, Jackson sets a loop around Derek's forearm and touches the skin to find a vein. He pierces the skin and the tube starts to fill. He takes the needle out once over and sets a band aid on Sheperd's arm). I'll go to take this to the lab. If everything is clear and ready, we'll be ready tomorrow morning.

Derek: ok

Avery: dr. Bailey told me you won't stay here for the night…

Derek: no… I'll come in tomorrow morning

Avery: ok… just remember not to eat tonight and all night long till… (he raises his eyes and Derek is smiling to him resettling his clothes) Sorry… it's the habit.

Derek: it's fine (Avery handles him his chart and Derek signs all the papers and the authorizations required, the informative document and the insurance statement) You really don't notice how much crap patients have to sign till when you don't become a patient yourself…

Avery: I shouldn't say it, I know, but I think nobody really reads any of this (Derek gives him the chart back and straightens up)

Derek: I guess you're right. Can I go?

Avery: of course, sir

Derek: thank you, dr. Avery. See you tomorrow then… (he makes some step to the door but before he reaches it Richard and Avery's grandfather come in) Hey… (Avery turns up and smiles seeing his grandpa there, he gets closer to him and hugs him)

Avery: grandpa… what are you doing here? (the man looks embarrassed but smiles to his nephew)

Avery: just sticking my nose around…

Jackson: why you didn't call to tell me you were coming? I could take some time off to have lunch together (Derek pats Jackson's shoulder)

Derek: parents and relatives never warn you before showing up. It's a pleasure to see you, dr. Avery (he stretches his hand and the old doctor shakes it) The young boy here is really all there.

Richard: tomorrow he'll perform a minor surgery on dr. Sheperd

Derek: Watch out or he'll be the doctor Avery in a few time (Richard chuckles and Jackson blushes)

Avery: I hope he will. Time is on his side

Derek: yeah… I'd prefer not to taste his scalpel on my skin but… we're a teaching hospital after all (both Avery laughs) I let you to your family reunion and go back to my office. If you excuse me… (he makes a step back but Avery senior blocks his way. Derek stops frowning and looks at Richard)

Avery: to tell the truth I needed to talk to you

Derek: me?

Avery: yes, it will just take two minutes

Derek: ok… (Avery gets the conversation is getting personal and takes all his stuff)

Jackson: I'm going to take these to the labs.

Richard: ok

Avery: catch up later for a quick lunch in the cafeteria?

Jackson: of course (Jackson gets to the door, he turns quickly around before going out. He looks at Derek and sighs wondering if what Sheperd said was just out of kindness or if he really thought it. The neuro surgeon was about to reach a goal every surgeon dreamt of, a goal most surgeons could only dream and never achieve. He closed the door behind his back)

Derek: what can I do for you?

Avery: sit down

Derek: excuse me?

Avery: sit. I'm sorry to do it like this (he looks at Richard and then approaches Derek, he takes an envelope out of his briefcase and handles it to Derek. Sheperd looks at it cautiously, rolling it through his fingers. He notices the name of a legal office in the left corner and looks up to Avery, his face gets serious)

Derek: to tell the truth I thought this would come much earlier

Avery: I wanted it to arrive first… finally later is better than ever, isn't it? (Derek smiles and gets off the gurney)

Derek: you're a man of humor, dr. Avery. No hard feelings. I'll have my lawyer answer back (Avery's mouth opens a bit in surprise, Richard looks questioningly at Derek)

Richard: what the hell are you talking about?

Derek: he has just notified me an incoming lawsuit. The least I can do is… (Derek stops as Avery has started to laugh noisily. He looks at him bewildered. The old doctor is trying to get his seriousness back but he goes on laughing)

Avery: my God… sorry. I'm… (he wipes some tear away and catches his breath) it's not a lawsuit for God's sake (Derek looks down to the papers, his attention caught by the sender). Why would I be suiting you? For you taught me your lesson in your hospital? My God Sheperd… I was told you were an easy guy but I didn't think like this. The sender is a legal office as the legal office is the legal entity of the foundation.

Derek: foundation? I don't… (Avery makes some step towards Derek and sets his hands on his shoulders)

Avery: the content of that envelop is not bad news at all, dr. Sheperd. You won… (Derek's eyes jumps to meet Avery's and then Richard's who's smiling behind him) You got Harper Avery… I know you had a lot of stuff to deal with lately and I wanted to deliver this news personally… And it's an honor for me (he breaks the contact and turns back picking his briefcase from the ground). The official communication will be deployed in two days. I kindly ask you to keep the secret till then. You in particular Webber… One of my co workers will take contact with you in the next days to arrange a visit and to take some picture. It's for the almanac and the ceremony. We organized it here in Seattle for your honor. And, that stays between us, so I could have some free time to spend with my nephew. See you soon, Derek (he opens the door and leaves, Derek is still standing in the same spot)

Richard: I leave you some privacy (he goes out too)

---

Mark and Alex enter Tracy's room. She's reading a magazine and her boyfriend is asleep on the couch. He's snoring loudly and Mark grins.

Mark: he must love you really much to sleep there. Those couches really break your back.

Tracy: Nick loves camping. He's used to sleep on impossible surfaces. This is heaven for him. So?

Mark: I've just picked your exams and they're fine. I'll make the last treatment and tomorrow you're free to go.

Tracy: that's great… I can't wait to get out of here. I have so many things to do for the marriage. Sometimes I feel like I won't do it.

Mark: you will, don't worry.

Alex: and maybe even regret you did… (he chuckles and Tracy looks at him. Mark understands she doesn't know Karev)

Mark: this is my resident, Tracy. Dr. Alex Karev…

Tracy: nice to meet you dr. Karev. So all my wedding talking scared dr. Avery and had him run through the hills.

Mark: no. He was just lent to this department for your surgery's day. Now he went back to his specialty and I got my brat back. Dr. Karev is very good. Now I leave you with him, he'll make your medication and I'll see you later for the discharge and my best wishes (he smiles and leaves, Alex approaches the bed and wears his gloves)

Alex: can I?

Tracy: sure (he pulls the sheet off and takes the bandages away. Tracy winces seeing her new toes)

Alex: you can go on reading your stuff if you feel more comfortable.

Tracy: no, I'm okay (she leans the magazine on the nightstand) and this is part of Nick's duty. He has to go through that and choose which stuff to pick. It's not women can do all by themselves (Alex has started to make the treatment)

Alex: usually women are hell bent to wedding stuff. Men… they just fall into it

Tracy: are you married? (Alex looks up quickly at her and then goes back to his work)

Alex: not anymore

Tracy: oh… and how did it happen? (Alex shrugs)

Alex: Sometimes things are not supposed to work.

Tracy: it's just unbelievable… That day you walk down the aisle and you feel so sure everything will go perfectly, you'll build a family and a future with the person you really love. And then… it just goes away. How can it be?

Alex: stay still, please (Alex is avoiding her eyes and Tracy looks at him)

Tracy: I'm sorry… It was inappropriate. I guess it's hard to talk about it. I didn't mean to bother you.

Alex: you didn't. And it's not I'll cry. We take the lesson and start new.

Tracy: you talk about wedding like it was a procedure. You fail one and try another.

Alex: yeah… it's something like that

Tracy: and where is the soul mate? Where are the vows? Where is the commitment? You can't switch bride like you do with old clothes.

Alex: who does say that?

Tracy: everyone… (Alex chuckles and Nick stirs on the couch, he stands up rubbing his eyes and gets close to the bed)

Nick: hey (he straightens up massaging his back) I fell asleep… I'm sorry (he kisses her and she smiles)

Tracy: don't worry. Dr. Sloan came here and said I'm fine. I can live today.

Nick: wow (Alex looks up and sees a hint of hesitance on the guy's features)

Tracy: and dr. Karev here is doing the medication. And we're having an interesting discussion about marriage and vows.

Nick: watch out there… My girlfriend is a religious extremist (she slaps his hand)

Tracy: I'm not. It's just sad to see a young guy so delusional and pessimist about love.

Nick: some people are not as lucky as we are, honey (he looks down at her and they kiss. Alex stands up)

Alex: I'm done here. I'll see you later, ok?

---

Bailey, Hunt, Reed, Brad, Meredith and Cristina are in the OR.

Bailey: so how did this happen?

Owen: an accident on work…

Cristina: more a domestic accident I'd say…

Bailey: so it was domestic or on work?

Meredith: it was on work but his son caused it…

Bailey: things just happen when you work in a building site

Cristina: especially when your son decides to hit you with a hammer on purpose. You can be a smart ass but there's no way to avoid it (Bailey looks up at her and then goes back working)

Meredith: he freaked out in the waiting area… (Meredith looks up to Owen) Will you tell the police? (Owen breaths out)

Owen: how can I not?

Meredith: he repented…

Cristina: this doesn't erase the crap the contractor will have because of his joke.

Meredith: what do you mean?

Cristina: the area will be closed and there will be an inquiry, the public authorities will check all the security standards were respected. What do you think will happen if they think it was an accident? The guy will have to sell his boxers and it could not be enough. The sooner you talk the sooner he'll get off troubles.

Meredith: it's just so sad…

Cristina: do you know what is sad? That we've been in here for two hours and none of you said a word for this poorthing. He's the one opened on the table actually. Several opening.

Meredith: so now you feel for the patient?

Cristina: I've never said that. But he'll feel like crap when he wakes up and gets to know that the perfect little son, the one he used to wear with blue puffy caps has tried to kill him. Such a wonderful path… and his mum… she'll be delighted. She could even find him a justification like motherly mothers do to cover their children' tare

Bailey: if I didn't know you, Yang, I'd say you had a dysfunctional youth.

Brad: why? Had she not?

Cristina: no, my youth was perfectly fine, thank you for your concern.

Meredith: you don't have to be so radical. We don't know what happened between the two of them

Cristina: cut the crap, Mer. Anything your father did to you, you just don't handle a hammer and smash his head. Did you ever hit your dad?

Meredith: he left before I wished to do it. And you should probably ask that to him… he hit me.

Owen: I don't think it's a problem of what he did or his son did. It's not a matter of education. It's just that sometimes kids get crashed by their patient's shadow, they bottle up for years and then they get the breaking point. And do things like this.

Brad: come on, Hunt. Don't mourn this guy like he was a murderer. He didn't kill anyone. He just wanted to shut his father up.

Cristina: and then he'll find a girlfriend who will be annoying, she'll talk of dresses and jewels and toiletry and he'll find her stressful and he'll get to another breaking point. And crack her head to shut her up. Seriously… it's for people like you that some people blame us for death penalty. It's DNA engineering.

Owen: so this boy will become a serial killer for you?

Cristina: he has more chances than me. You often hear they suffered abuse, they were aggressive, they had strange hobbies

Meredith: but sometimes neighbours would set their hands on fire to assure they were perfectly good guys

Cristina: Well… hammering your father is not something so perfectly good. I'd say his neighbours will like to stay apart from him.

Brad: it's better not to have kids if they can be so disturbed and dangerous.

Bailey: unfortunately you can't know how they'll look like till they are here.

Cristina: that's his point. No buying closed box.

Owen: so what? Letting the human kind expire?

Cristina: no. Just letting the others taking the plunge even for you

---

Derek is leaning to the catwalk looking down. A small smile paints his lips, the conversation with dr. Avery still echoing in his ears.

So that's it. After years of studying, working, impressing, exercising, making mistakes he got on top of the surgical world. Someone would have told him twenty years ago… he'd have signed a blind contract right away. But now… he was happy of course, he was flattered… it was a sweet feeling. But not the apotheosis he would expect to feel. There was something missing. Derek searched his mind and heart trying to find the answer and it came clear to his mind. His surgeries had saved lives, his hands had achieved to improve the patients' conditions. But nothing had actually improved his own life. The life of the people he loved. He wanted to do something more than being a brilliant expression of science and techniques. He wanted to try to leave a tangible sign in the medical world. He wanted to find treatments, he wanted to heal inoperable illness. He wanted to improve his own world. He took a glance to the hall downstairs and his eyes were caught by a woman pushing a wheelchair, an older woman sitting on it, her eyes fireless and lost in the surrounding space. Alzheimer. Derek got it immediately. There was something in patients with Alzheimer which immediately caught his attention. It was difficult to explain… There was something in the demeanor of these people, they way they stood, the way they looked around… It was heartbreaking how people changed, faded… Derek remembered Ellis Grey, the day he went visiting her in the clinic. She looked so clueless and harmless. And he remembered her at the hospital in a moment of lucidity, cold and cynic. How could that be the same person? He pictured Meredith like that and his heart clenched. If only he could… He straightened up. Maybe he could. The tests he had processed two years ago hadn't been enough to build up a clinical trial then. But now things could change. He could try to find donors and sponsors. He smiled wider.

Mark: it looks like Derek-bee just had a good idea… (Derek turns around and sees Mark next to him)

Derek: probably…

Mark: personal or professional?

Derek: the both

Mark: you're hermetic.

Derek: and you're curious. Just wait and see.

Mark: ok… Can I help you with something?

Derek: no… I'm the neuro God and you're the plastic guy. I'm good (his smile widens even more)

Mark: why are you so cocky today?

Derek: nothing

Mark: you're an awful liar.

Derek: you didn't teach me well there

Mark: and I'm still the nurses' preferred one…

Derek: I'm not so sure about that…

Mark: Brad can think he's screwing but he's been screwed. Nurses met and voted. I'm still the favorite Mc Whore. And I was told you had a private meeting with dr. Avery, half of Harper Avery team. Anything you want to tell me?

Derek: no

Mark: anything you'd like to tell me but you can't? (Derek smiles) Come here, brother (Mark hugs him quickly) I don't know how you could become so good and I didn't. We studied all together, on the same books.

Derek: you're good. It's just that you don't give yourself too much credit. You should.

Mark: yeah… now I get why you boycotted my shiny impossible surgery…

Derek: you do?

Mark: you were scared I could beat you on the knife's edge, you bastard (Derek laughs) Can I ask you a favor?

Derek: I won't introduce you hot doctors…

Mark: I have Lexie, I don't need hot doctors.

Derek: good answer. Shoot it.

Mark: will you reconsider it?

Derek: what?

Mark: Mrs. Myers… her surgery

Derek: I thought she stepped down

Mark: no. we did. Webber wasn't able to find me a neuro surgeon. And she was pissed. Black pissed.

Derek: mmm… give me her dossier. I'll take a look.

Mark: yes majesty

Derek: Mark…

Mark: do you prefer another nick name?

Derek: Derek is still fine for you

Mark: congrats again, boy. Going to Joe's to celebrate tonight?

Derek: no. I have to keep the secret for some day. And tomorrow there's my little surgery.

Mark: right, I forgot. See you at the inauguration then.

Derek: ok… (Mark turns around and makes some step away) And Mark…

Mark: my lips are sealed, don't worry

Derek: thank you

---

Alex arrives at the clinic, in the hall the servants have arranged chairs and a podium. There are nurses going left and right to prepare things and there are already some guess sitting and waiting. Alex approaches a very agitated Lexie. The young intern is scanning some paper quickly. From the other side of the room even Lucy gets closer.

Alex: have you forgotten what safe sex is?

Lexie: no. As I have it every night (Lucy narrows her eyes at her). I can give you some tip however. But from what I remember, you prefer dirty transgressive sex so… at least you used to… (she picks up her documents and leaves. Alex giggles and Lucy follows Lexie with her eyes)

Lucy: funny girl…

Alex: she freaks out for everything and I enjoy to joke her around.

Lucy: she is Sloan's girlfriend, isn't she?

Alex: yes. And my roommate.

Lucy: do you live with her?

Alex: yes (Alex is sure he can read discomfort on Lucy's face). And her sister, her brother in law and whoever needs a roof and just knocks to the door. Actually… you don't need to knock… you just come in and find a bed to sleep.

Lucy: it looks like a funny place

Alex: it is. And you?

Lucy: I have a loft downtown.

Alex: fancy

Lucy: no. An old barrack cleaned up and sold. Really not so fancy.

Alex: but you go home and have silence, privacy… I miss that sometimes… I have to take showers with Lexie going in and out, she shaves her legs while I brush my teeth. And leaving with your boss… you call him sir here and then call him names as he eats all the chocolate corn flakes in the morning. It's messy. But I wouldn't give it up now.

Lucy: you have time to make the change

Alex: Yeah (his attention is caught by Nick, Tracy's boyfriend. He has opened the door and entered the room. His expression hardens)

Lucy: you ok?

Alex: yes. He's my patient's boyfriend. Nick… (the guy sees him and gets closer) Are you ok? Tracy's fine?

Nick: yeah… she's good. Painting her nails actually (he rubs his face and Alex realizes he looks nervous and is really pale. He pats his shoulder)

Lucy: I go to take a chair (she walks away and comes back after some second with a chair. Nick sits down)

Alex: something happened?

Nick: no… really. I know it doesn't look like but I'm fine. Just tired I guess…

Alex: I told you wedding plans suck

Nick: I was supposed to sleep… but I wasn't. I heard what you said. And you're right. And Tracy… she just… I'm sorry she prompted you on personal topics.

Alex: it doesn't matter.

Nick: it does. She scares away everyone with all her theories about everlasting love and commitment. My friends dumped me as they can't stand to share a dinner with the two of us. And now she gives her doctor lectures about soul mates and obligations. And doesn't stop even when you mention she's just selling crap (he rubs his eyes tiredly and looks up, both Lucy and Alex are looking at him). Don't give me that look. I'm not a groom freaking out as marriage gets closer.

Alex: I didn't…

Lucy: you did

Nick: I love her and I want to marry her. I hadn't realized yet how much she can push, how much she can pull. We'll walk down that aisle. But we'll be alone.

Alex: mr. Philips, your marriage will never be like you wanted it to be. Your girlfriend is planning everything, imagining every problem and finding two solutions. But you'll have problems. And she'll be pissed. Do you think she's giving you hell now? Wait when the aperitif won't be cold enough… (Nick giggles) But still… you're prepared.

Nick: do you think so? I'd prefer a sudden death than an agony like this

Alex: I happen to disagree. I had a sudden death. I got married at 6.30 pm and I got to know at 4.

Nick: what?

Alex: my girlfriend was sick, she had a tumor. And one of our friends gave us her wedding day. So I knew two hours before. I found myself on an altar talking a good speech while I was supposed to be cutting in an OR. With a tuxedo which was not mine and a pair of trousers squeezing my balls as they were too tight

Lucy: I really wanted to see that

Alex: why don't you just talk to her? Tell her to take it easier. You don't need to fight. Just to talk.

Nick: I don't want to waste things for her.

Alex: but you don't want to remember this like a nightmare (Nick's cell beeps and he looks at it. He stands up)

Nick: that's her. I need to go back.

Alex: I see you later for the dismissal

Nick: ok… thank you

---

Bailey is scrubbing out with Owen, they look through the glass to see Avery and Reed wheeling the patient away.

Bailey: will you come with me to inform mrs. Lewis about surgery?

Owen: if you want me to...

Bailey: why would I not?

Owen: I guess the right question is why would you?

Bailey: I don't want to be alone with them when I'll have to explain how this did really happen... (Owen nods and Bailey breaths out) Have you already called the police?

Owen: yes, they should be here in an hour or so. I told them there was a remote chance the guy would flake off

Bailey: why do I have to feel so bad for this? Your girlfriend is so intransigent and radical and Brad... Seriously... I should ask Altman to run a scan to check if he actually has a heart

Owen: I wouldn't be surprised if she found a roast potato...

Bailey: she'd be delighted then... She'd reveal a medical mystery (they both laugh) Let's go (they exit the scrub room and walk through the sliding door delimiting the restricted area. Bailey spots the patient's wife and son waiting together. They are both playing nervously with plastic cups. As soon as the woman notices the two doctors walking to her she stands up like a spring and meets them half way)

Woman: so how is he? Is he good? How did it happen? (Bailey looks around realizing there is a lot of people in the room. Owen feels her discomfort and clears his throat to speak)

Owen: mrs. Lewis, the surgery went good but there are some concerns and detail we want to share with you and I don't think this is the right place. Please, follow us to that conference room (he point to a free room and Bailey starts to walk without even waiting for the answer. Owen gives way to the woman and shares a quick look with the son who follows his mom. They all enter the room and Owen closes the door behind his back. Everyone has taken a sit and he does as well, picking a chair near Bailey)

Bailey: as doctor Hunt already told you the surgery went good. We had some complications but we were able to stop the bleeding and to repair all the damages. Dr. Brad made an accurate neurological check and he excluded any problem or residual bleeding.

Woman: so why do you say you still have concerns about his conditions?

Owen: as our Head of Cardio and her resident noticed some cardiac anomaly and your husband is still under strict monitoring.

Woman: I don't understand... My husband has never had cardiac problems... Is it a consequence of the accident?

Owen: it could be... Your husband was awake all the time during the ride to the hospital... It could be a reaction to stress or shock

Woman: or it could be the cause of the accident? Maybe he had a high pressure and felt down... (both Bailey and Owen look at the boy who keeps silent)

Bailey: mrs. Lewis, your husband's accident wasn't caused by a heart attack or pressure or a high...

Woman: did he tell you? As Tim was with him but...

Tim: it was me (the woman turns to her son and takes his hand)

Woman: honey... It's not your fault... You couldn't stop dad from falling down...

Tim: you don't get it , mom, do you? (he retrieves his hand from her grasp) I hit him... With the hummer.

Woman: what?

Tim: I hit him... On purpose... And he fell down

Woman: honey... You were working and (the boy jumps on his feet, the chair scraping on the floor noisily)

Tim: damn it, mum, stop it! I said I did it on purpose and I did it on purpose. We were working and he started the same old story of me being able of doing nothing on my own, that he had given me that job and I wasn't cheerful enough to thank him every morning. I was tired and I told him to stop but he just couldn't shut up and an lost control. For one, fucking second I lost control and I hit his fingers. He recoiled... And he fell. I didn't want him to fall but I wanted to hit him and have him shutting the hell up. So when I say that's my fault don't say the contrary. I guess the police is already coming here

Owen: it is (the woman has started to sob and the guy looks down at her)

Tim: can I go to take her something to drink? (he notices the glance between Haunt and Bailey and he gets their unsaid fear). I won't run, I promise. I could have done it before if I wanted (Owen nods and Tim leaves, his mum goes on crying for some second and neither Owen nor Bailey can find the nerve to tell her something. Finally she sniffles and cleans her nose, she stands up)

Woman: it's better I go and find my son a lawyer... Excuse me... (the woman leaves and Hunt rubs his eyes)

Bailey: it's on occasions like this that I hate being a doctor (Owen chuckles still rubbing his eyes and Bailey looks at him stunned). Do you find it funny?

Owen: no, of course I don't. But it's kind of educational..

Bailey: what? A son messing up with a tool?

Owen: no. A mother whose only worry is trying to protect her son despite the mistake he did. It's a lecture of strength and love I hope someday I will be able to give to my own son.

Bailey: I wish it to you

---

Derek enters the clinic and is happily surprised to see how many people are in the room waiting for the conference. He smiles and says hi to some doctors and nurses he recognizes, he can't help the grin of satisfaction painting his lips. Aft the encounter with Mark, he was reflecting that maybe his quarantine could start some hour later. He wanted to take Meredith to Joe's to celebrate, he couldn't wait to tell her about the award. He spotted her in a corner with her friends, his lips curled even more to notice how beautiful and relaxed she was. His wife was sex on legs, even the pregnancy and the new roundness characterizing her features had made her even more stunning. She was laughing for something Cristina had told her, he looked and noticed all the clear signs of hilarity that brightened her face: her nose seemed to crinkle a bit, her cheeks were flushed and her eyes were almost closed. His heart clenched for the joy: after all the bad moments and problems they had gone through, apparently the time of serenity had come for them too. Derek breathed in deeply: the conversation with Avery had awoken a new enthusiasm in him. Both personal and professional. He wanted to start to plan a clinical trial for Alzheimer as on as possible. And Meredith... with the baby coming and their dream house on progress, there was just one thing missing to complete the picture. And he wanted to repair as soon as possible. He walked close to the wall till he was some step to Meredith and the other residents. This was an official occasion and even he wanted to feel the contact with his wife and stand close to her, he decided to stop near Hunt and Teddy. The Chief was already on the podium and the ceremony was about to start.

Cristina stared to the items resting on the desk in front of Webber, she recognized a box of condoms and other stuff.

Cristina: come on... He's over there with a banana and condoms.

Meredith: I hope this time won't still be Patricia to lead the lecture

Avery: who?

Cristina: the chief's secretary.

Meredith: this would be the second time I take lectures of safe sex from someone who hasn't sex for years.

Cristina: and how do you know that? Apparently even Nelson could find a wife after all.

Meredith: this doesn't mean he has an active sexual life

Alex: you're right. He could do crosswords... It's normal activity of new weds (Reed takes a look around the room)

Reed: I had never done something like this before...

Cristina: just because none of your friends has never spread Syphilis all other the hospital (Meredith giggles and Alex gets serious). It was a funny experience. And Patricia had a very good time rolling a condom on the banana (she looks to the podium where Lucy fields is doing the same operation). For her misfortune, she has lost the chance this time. See you in three years, banana (Meredith laughs and turns to look to Alex)

Meredith: Alex is excited though. Her new target seems to have a lot of experience with these operations... Her hands are magic...

Alex: just shut up

Brad: you all (the guys turn around and look back to the podium gaining seriousness when they see Brad next to them). It's the first time I see you so excited about something, dr. Yang (Alex giggles and Cristina sends a quick glance to Brad)

Cristina: that's because your specialty can't raise any excitement in me, sir. I'm a very enthusiastic person.

Brad: I see. This free clinic is very interesting.

Cristina: do you think?

Brad: yeah. I found it embarrassing this morning to go and buy condoms in the pharmacy in front of the hospital. The cashier looked at me like it was a crime to have plans for someone. Now I know I can find plenty here. I really start to like this place.

Alex: good... Just be careful, I wouldn't be surprised if dr. Fields put her intern to guard condoms. She looks to be really in the part.

Brad: yeah... And I have to say this part really fits her.

Alex: so who's making malignant comments about colleges now?

Brad: just relax, Karev. She's not my type.

Cristina: look how she's squeezing that poor thing... You don't want yours to be that banana...

Meredith: don't take example, Cristina. This game looks to be too hard (she grins to Cristina)

Cristina: and since then do you like fair play in bed?

Meredith: I don't actually... You know I don't (their attention is brought back to the chief who is back on the podium)

Webber: and now dr. Fields will be glad to answer your questions

Cristina: I don't have questions (she leaves like a lot of other people, Meredith does too and Derek follows her, Cristina notices him and grins to Meredith) I guess he's here for the practical lecture (Meredith rolls her eyes)

Meredith: don't care, Derek

Derek: do I never care when she bosses me? (he closes his arms around Meredith and Cristina snorts)

Cristina: no, and these are the results. See you later (Derek pulls Meredith in an OC room kissing her neck, she pours in his ear feeling his lips on her skin)

Meredith: apparently dr. Fields has a sexing power...

Derek: I didn't get one word of what she said. I was too busy to think of this moment (he kisses her lips and then stops to look her into the eyes)

Meredith: you're ok? You look like you're daydreaming...

Derek: and I am. I'm here with the most beautiful woman in the world who happens to be carrying my perfect baby and being my post it wife. And then... (he swallows and smiles and she smiles back) can you keep a secret?

Meredith: I'm not very good at it but I can try

Derek: it's mine, Mer...

Meredith: what? (he smiles wider and she frowns) the baby? (Derek chuckles and kisses her cheek quickly)

Derek: not the baby... I know it's mine... the award (Meredith makes a step back, her mouth opens in shock) dr. Avery in his shoes came here this morning to tell me... I have to keep it till the news gets public

Medith: oh my God (she hugs him tight) I'm so happy for you

Derek: I know (he rubs her back) and I know it sounds repetitive but... (he breaks the hug and sets his palms on his cheeks) I have to thank you... I couldn't have done half things without you near me, I love you (he kisses her)

Meredith: I love you too (they kiss again)

Derek: what about if we stop at Joe's before going home tonight?

Meredith: why not? I can't wait to see Cristina's face when you tell her...

Derek: not tonight though

Meredith: I know. I got that part: keep the secret, Mer. Keep your mouth shut (Derek laughs and she gets serious) Oh...

Derek: what?

Meredith: you want to go out tonight but your surgery is in the morning. You can't eat or drink anything

Derek: I happen to know that. Plus Avery clearly mentioned it.

Meredith: we can go home then...

Derek: no. Let's go out. You need to have some fun with all the others sometimes.

Meredith: ok (her pager beeps and she looks at it) Don't think I'll skip the pre-op sex though. That won't kill you

Derek: but doing sex starving and thirsty will

Meredith: go and take something now then! Don't waste any more time (she kisses him quickly and leaves the room)

---

Lexie is walking to the nurses station holding several folders. She sees Mark standing there and arrives slamming the papers on the desk, she snorts noisily and Mark looks at her blinking

Mark: you ok?

Lexie: yeah... Only I was sure this was going to end like this

Mark: like what?

Lexie: like every attending in the hospital is happy to cooperate to the success of the clinic, to give hints and time. But finally the only ones really running and doing the dirty job are the interns. Like usual.

Mark: well... It looked o me like even dr. Fields was doing the dirty job before (Lexie's eyes narrow in shock)

Lexie: Mark!

Mark: what? (he turns around and notices her expression) I was just saying...

Lexie: can you just stop saying things about sexy women doing sexy things about sex?

Mark: what? (Lexie looks angry, her hands on her hips but apparently Mark is not scared of her reaction, he grins) you're hot when you're pissed...

Lexie: don't think you can give me that crap now (he gets closer and talks slowly in her ear)

Mark: her hands are nothing compared with yours.

Lexie: all the men were looking at her in a haze in that room...

Mark: it's not true

Lexie: yeah... You're right. They were actually grooling on her feet.

Mark: she was cold, and detached.

Lexie: she was beautiful

Mark: frigid

Lexie: algid and perfect

Mark: she was handling that banana like it was an enemy

Lexie: she was damned sexy, her voice never cracked and she was talking about sex in a room full of strangers. Me... I am here talking with you and I feel as embarrassed as a girl at the first day of school... I'm rambling... Why can't I be like her?

Mark: I don't want you to be like her. As you're far more sexy and hot.

Lexie: please...

Mark: women like Lucy Fields eat men, they hate men. That's why they can have a speech like that without feeling any uncomfortable. And that's why men don't chase her. Who will go after her when you're in the picture? ( Lexie smiles) I thank God it wasn't you making that lecture on the podium. I think I could jump you right and there (he kisses her cheek), wasn't you thinking of me all the time?

Lexie: yes

Mark: so I think we should go home early and order in.

Lexie: why not...

Mark: I think I lost a passage of the procedure we were taught and you, resident who makes the whole dirty job, could surely give me a quick freshen up (he smirks and whispers in her ear) ... And then I could give it to you (he grins and she smiles back)

Lexie: crap!

Mark: what?

Lexie: Meredith has just texted me to go to Joe's tonight with her and Derek and I said yes. I'm sorry...

Mark: don't be. We'll go there, eat something and then go home to have our private lessons

Lexie: ok (Mark's pager rings)

Mark: see you directly at Joe?

Lexie: ok

---

Owen sees Cristina sitting alone in the cafeteria, she's writing on her cell and she doesn't notice him taking a seat in front of her.

Owen: hey

Cristina: hey

Owen: I brought you coffee

Cristina: thank you (she hasn't looked up yet and Owen starts to feel uncomfortable)

Owen: what are doing?

Cristina: answering my mum. She needs an address and she asked me

Owen: whose address?

Cristina: nothing important... (she looks up and sees he's waiting) the man who made my library... She wants one for the living room...

Owen: Did you have your own library?

Cristina: why do you care? (Owen smiles in disbelief) What?

Owen: I'm just trying to make some conversation... And I know nothing of your adolescence and I really want to know. Unless your library is covered by military secret...

Cristina: it's not. But my life at home is not great deal and I don't like to talk about it. I guess my mum told you a lot of things though.

Owen: she didn't and I'm happy of it. I want to know things from you not to have your mum telling me whispering while you are at the toilet

Cristina: I was very careful not to go to the toilet while we were with her (Owen breaths out and she gets he is starting to get mad) My mother is a very snob person and she tried to make me the same. But she couldn't as I was a tomboy. I spent the whole day closed in my room to read and study. I hadn't friends and I didn't like to watch tv. And we didn't get along that much. She always attended her stupid club with her stupid friends talking about French and manicure techniques. Do you think I was interested in that crap?

Owen: no

Cristina: so I don't have a lot of things to talk about. I refused to become a member of the country club as I thought it was the most idiot place in the world. And I couldn't help to feel relieved when I finished college and my admittance form was accepted in Yale. That's it (she resumes writing)

Owen: so university was a kind of liberation for you...

Cristina: yes. My personal Id was blank then. I wasn't the daughter of the dad engineer Yang anymore. I was just junior n. 23097 and I could behave like I wanted and do what I wanted.

Owen: do you know that impersonality and anonymity are the main reasons why young people don't get through university?

Cristina: no. And for me they were the reasons I could (she closes her cell and sets it on the table. Owen understands that for her the conversation is over. Her eyes are scanning the room while she sips her coffee lazily. He breaths out and decides to play her game)

Owen: how is mr. Lewis?

Cristina: good. I picked up his exams before the lesson and the enzymes went down. Probably the arythmia was caused by stress and shock. The rhythm was getting normal.

Owen: did you prescribe him anything?

Cristina: just rest for now. I'll talk with dr. Altman later and see if she recommends something different. I don't think though.

Owen: do you think the police can hear him out?

Cristina: why not? He can talk

Owen: his power of speech was not under discussion. If the arythmia was caused by stress don't you think that talking to the police will give him more?

Cristina: more than the fact that he well knows it was his son doing? I don't think so (she takes another sip and then looks at him)

Owen: mrs. Lewis first concern was to find the guy an attorney (Cristina shrugs)

Cristina: anyway... If the symptoms stay the same and the monitoring won't reveal anything new, I think tomorrow Teddy will give her ok for him to go home.

Owen: well it won't be that quick. He had a complicated surgery and the neurological draw is still under examination.

Cristina: Meredith told me the bleeding turned out to be shallow. Once Bailey will clear him, he'll join the perfect family at home.

Owen: Cristina...

Cristina: do you know what is sad in these cases? That man and his wife will minimize their son's actions. They'll define it like a moment of weakness. And they'll forget.

Owen: do you think it's a mistake?

Cristina: don't you? I know you all can think I'm cold and calculator but I'm not. It's just that, unlike you, I think that sometimes people do mistakes and they know exactly what they are doing. And I don't think they regret it after, they regret it as they are caught and they have to face consequences of it. Had he died, do you think his son would confess it was his fault?

Owen: we can't know that

Cristina: you're right. We can't. So you can't blame me if I pick the stay silent and get away with it version. And I don't blame you if you pick the regret and forgive.

Owen: that's who we are

Cristina: right, that's who we are.

Owen: but you think I'm a fool (Cristina sets her empty cup on the table and looks at Owen)

Cristina: do you want to know what I think? I think Sheperd avoided a punch and got a knife at the second try, I think he stood on a podium and said Gary Clark was a good man. He's not a freaking good man. And that boy is not a poor lump who lost his nerve. Forgiveness is a great thing Owen, but you can't sell forgiveness like it's granted or due. It's not. And there's something in that guy which upsets me. Which makes me believe that he'd do it again. It was deliberate, it was quick like kicking a cat. Anyway... Why do you care what I think?

Owen: as I respect your thinking. You don't see stuff like me and I appreciate it.

Cristina: you're pissed

Owen: I'm not. I don't want someone who repeats my words and has my own beliefs and tastes.

Cristina: beliefs... We could work on beliefs maybe but tastes (she gestures with her head to Owen's cup, filled with almost cold barley coffee) ... Seriously... I think you ask too much

---

Meredith is adjusting treatments in a closet in the clinic. Brad opens the door and she turns around to see him. She looks a bit surprised to see him there, she sends a quick and worried glare to her pager

Meredith: dr. Brad... Did you page me? (she turns the pager in her hands realizing the screen shows anything, neither missed nor incoming calls)

Brad: no, I was looking for you and I thought you could be here, engaged in the new mission of the hospital (Meredith goes back fixing and setting boxes on the shelves)

Meredith: it's not new and it's not a mission to us. It's the same clinic we used to work in a couple of years ago. And it feels good to be back

Brad: uhm uhm (he gets closer, resting an elbow lazily on a shelf, Meredith tries to ignore the awkwardness filling the space between them). And this is what you do in the clinic?

Meredith: if it's necessary... Dr. Grey took the boxes down this morning but she had no time to assess everything, so that's what I do now. mr. Lewis was fine, I checked his vitals before coming down, pupils were responsive and he was able to follow my instructions. I had already discharged all the patients in the department this morning before we were paged in the ER, post ops were normal... (Brad giggles and Meredith looks at him)

Brad: you know, I wasn't referring to you when I asked if that's what you do here. I see what you're actually doing in front of my eyes. And, for the record, I know you were perfectly efficient this morning. I checked all the charts and saw rooms n. 2308 and 2316 were cleared just after breakfast. And I went visiting mr. Lewis myself. I was speaking about the clinic and the activities you do in here. I took the bother to read Webber's dossier but, really, I couldn't believe my eyes seeing an OBG practicing safe sex with a banana and a condom.

Meredith: showing safe sex... Not doing it. It's quite different. Anyway... A lot of people came in, mostly young couples and even schools. I think we're going to do great with this place. There are a lot of good lectures planned, easy things... Not too complicated. People like simple.

Brad: do you think so?

Meredith: yes... Sloan proposed a lecture about natural ways to keep the skin hydrated and young.

Brad: I guess cosmetic producers will go after his blood

Meredith: maybe... But women will queue to come to listen to him. Then there's Sheperd's lecture about migraine, the first cause of sick leave in the USA last year.

Brad: I can't look forward to hear it

Meredith: and dr. Altman will give a lesson on good feeding to prevent heart diseases.

Brad: outstanding...

Meredith: why do I get the feeling that you're taking fun of me?

Brad: as I am. I read what the next lectures are about. It's just that you looked so enthusiastic that I didn't want to take it from you

Meredith: take what?

Brad: the satisfaction to tell me (Meredith sends him a reprimand look and Brad smiles to her) You look happy today...

Meredith: I'm always happy

Brad: today more. You have a special aura brightening your face

Meredith: I got some good news... And it's just a smile...

Brad: just? Don't you know that people like simple? (Meredith smiles to him and goes back working, Brad makes a step forward). And you? Won't you do any lesson?

Meredith: at the moment residents aren't allowed to do anything but assist.

Brad: and I disagree. it could be a good occasion to have you talk in front of people, to get confidence and courage.

Meredith: tell it to Webber then

Brad: maybe I'll do... I think you could be a good teacher

Meredith: I have nothing to teach

Brad: you said differently this morning in the cafeteria (a chill runs down Meredith's spine perceiving his allusion, she keeps silent) and I would be happy to know your secrets (she snorts avoiding any eye contact)

Meredith: I thought I was pretty clear to you, dr. Brad

Brad: but I wasn't to you (his voice is husky and he rapidly closes the distance between the two of them, he closes his hands around Meredith's wrists and she reacts to the contact. Even if she tries to relieve from his grasp he pulls her towards him)

Meredith: what the hell are you doing? (she pulls violently but his hands are strongly closed around her wrists, so firmly it also hurts)

Brad: what you want me to do (he gets closer and tries to kiss her but she avoids the contact, still fighting with his painful grip)

Meredith: are you crazy or what? (she pulls and even kicks, her eyes are wide in shock and anger, still he gets closer grinning) Let go of me or I'll start screaming

Brad: that's really a good idea (he pulls stronger and a whimper escapes Meredith's throat, she loses balance and he finally kisses her. Even if she fights with all her strength she can't break the kiss. It's Brad who finally pushes her roughly away, Meredith massages her wrists which really hurt, her eyes widen is shock when she realizes he's licking his lips, a grin painting his face) That was really a good entry (Meredith breaths in and out quickly, she can really decide if she is more mad or shocked. And scared. She makes some step to the door, she walks near dr. Brad but when she is over him, he catches her wrist again and pulls her making her turning on her heels. She can't control a little whimper. Brad's face is dangerously close to her lips and she wounds her free hand trying to slap him. He stops her and Meredith gets even more furious realizing he looks amused) wow... You like it rough, don't you? (he forces her hands down her sides and kisses her again) Tomorrow you'll come to me for this. You play the cold and pissed girl but you like this, I see it (Meredith pulls away and he lets her, she goes away slamming the door)

---

Bailey enters Webber's office, the door was open but she stops seeing nobody behind the desk.

"He's not here" Derek's voice echoes in the room, she looks to the couch and sees him sitting reading a magazine

Bailey: thank you for pointing that out (she sinks into the couch and Derek sends her an amused look, she catches him in the act). What do you want again? Are you here to complain about the high content of fat in the food? ( Derek answers chuckling and rubbing the thin beard on his cheeks)

Derek: you had a bad day... (he resumes his reading and MIranda rubs his eyes tiredly)

Bailey: why do you say so? It started with an encounter with my lawyer, the first audience for Tuck's custody is in a week (Derek sends her a sympathetic look), a bad case in the OR, a tough discussion about children, I had to tell a woman that her son, her teen ager boy, had deliberately caused an accident to her husband. The police is hearing him out.

Derek: I'm sorry... If there's anything I can do for you...

Bailey: just try not to make tomorrow even worse by dying on my table

Derek: it's not in my plans. But I'll make sure Avery won't cut my neck instead that my stomach (Bailey chuckles looking at Derek)

Bailey: he won't get distracted, I promise.

Derek: you see? I gave you the promise of a very good tomorrow.. Sheperd does magic (he goes back reading and Bailey stirs her neck to spy his magazine)

Bailey: and what are you using your brain for now, you Wizard?

Derek: I've got some plans… (Derek doesn't raise his eyes from the magazine and Bailey looks at him, she waves her hand trying to find the right words)

Bailey: qualify your idea of plans, please

Derek: what?

Bailey: saying you have plans implies a lot of things, some good, some bad. Do I have to think good or bad?

Derek: great… you have to think great (he gives her a look and notices she looks puzzled at him, he closes the review and sets it on the table). Look… I'm here to talk to the chief first. There's nothing decided or anything… (her brown eyes are boring into his and Derek decides to test his ideas. He opens his mouth to speak but words don't come out. Suddenly he feels insecure and a little bit stupid, maybe his arrogance and cockiness are bringing him too far. Maybe it's just the high of success, it's the weightlessness… Bailey is still looking at him and he swallows, he speaks and his voice comes out week and soft) Did you know that Meredith took the test for Alzheimer's gene? (Bailey's features seem to soften considerably, if she is surprised she doesn't show. She looks really concerned)

Bailey: no. Today?

Derek: no (Derek diverts his eyes, the catwalk suddenly looking attractive, the office oppressive), some month ago (he turns to look at her and Miranda sees a great sadness in his eyes, she shakes her head)

Bailey: you know that the fact she's got the gene doesn't mean she'll get sick

Derek: I know. But she… we don't know if she has it or not. I convinced her not to pick up the result. I… I just didn't want to know and… I thought it would be better for her too.

Bailey: it was a wise choice. And why is this bothering you now?

Derek: it's not. But… I feel it like a presence. A constant presence between the two of us. She accepted to humor me but… she's scared. And I want to do something.

Bailey: qualify something

Derek: I'm thinking of a clinical trial.

Bailey: to entertain your girlfriend?

Derek: To cure Alzheimer (Bailey's eyes narrow a little bit)

Bailey: it looks like an ambitious plan

Derek: I know. And crazy too. But I've made some research lately and I found some good starting point.

Bailey: and you're here to ask the chief to give you his approval.

Derek: more or less…

Bailey: he could find hundreds of reasons to say no.

Derek: I know. But I don't fear them. I can face medical skirmish with Richard. And my trial has solid roots, I have studies, I have theories.

Bailey: so why would he say no?

Derek: two reasons I guess. Budget…

Bailey: good reason…

Derek: I can find solution to it, I can find founds and sponsors.

Bailey: this leaves us to… (Derek swallows and stands up, he goes standing in front of the window facing the catwalk and the main hall)

Derek: Richard has a thing for Meredith…

Bailey: he has a thing for you too…

Derek: he had a thing… (he turns around and notices Bailey's curiosity) he knew Ellis Grey… If he took this personally, if he considered this personally, he'd say no.

Bailey: well… I can't say I wouldn't blame him (Derek sighs and Miranda goes on speaking) You are a scientist, Sheperd. You need to be perfectly focused and detached to practice medicine, you need to be even more focused and detached to lead a critical trial. It's a mess, you know that. Details make the difference, maybe Webber could think you wouldn't be able to separate your personal life, your wife from your patients. And seriously… he's got a point

Derek: this is bigger than Meredith and me.

Bailey: I know… would you still think this if you had to choose? (the door opens and Richard enters, he stops surprised to see the two doctors in his office, he closes the door behind his back)

Derek: chief… (Webber walks to his desk, on his way he pats Derek's shoulder, Miranda frowns, she adjusts in her seat)

Richard: what do I owe the pleasure to see my jewels of the crown at the same moment in my office?

Derek: it was a case actually…

Bailey: and to be precise, I'm the jewel.

---

Cristina arrives in the locker room, she is whistling, Meredith is sitting on the bench wearing her pants, she looks thoughtful.

Cristina: hey

Meredith: hey

Cristina: what a pissing day… (she takes her clothes out of the locker and sits near Meredith, she takes off her scrub top, the only garment on her bra)

Meredith: awful day I'd say (her voice is low and she keeps her eyes down. Cristina pulls her sweater on looking at her)

Cristina: what happened to you?

Meredith: nothing

Cristina: you were head over feet and I saw you entering an OC room with Derek. Wasn't he on top today? (Meredith gives her a strict look and bends to collect her purse, the sleeve retrieves a bit and Cristina sees a dark bruise on her wrist). Sheperd's an animal… (she chuckles)

Meredith: Cristina…

Cristina: I'm just saying… He has my appreciation though.

Meredith: right

Cristina: what's wrong with you and Owen? You should enjoy the marvel of sex, the new experiences, the hotness… Ok, maybe Derek was a little bit too vehement but… I guess it was worth, right? (Meredith finally gives her smile. She was on the verge of telling Cristina about Brad and the closet but, finally, this wouldn't do any good. She's insecure. Till today she was positive she could keep Brad in control but, after today… she's scared. Brad looked to enjoy the situation, to think she really wanted that. He hurt her, he forced her to kiss him. It was… she wouldn't say it loud as it was exaggerated, she knew, but… she felt violated… raped. She wondered if Derek felt the same when April kissed him. Yeah… he certainly did. What would he do to Brad if he knew? Better not to think of it… nothing he didn't deserve anyway. She'd think how to deal with this later, now she just wanted to go to Joe's and celebrate Derek properly. She'll think to an explanation of those bruises later. Derek certainly would notice during his evening message. She smiles lightly at the thought. Derek had always been full of care and attentions to her. But now she was pregnant… it was even better. He prepared her warm baths, he made her breakfast and in the evening, once in bed, he massaged her for minutes and minutes to wash tiredness and tension away. She was used to his hands, they were kind and strong at the same time. But they had gained a tenderness lately she hadn't known before. Even when he was dead tired it was a ritual he wouldn't give up. That was his way to tell her… well, them… good night. And it was something she couldn't help waiting for. It was the perfect closure of their day. The touch, the contact, the cuddling… and that new look on his face. He looked to her like she was a cathedral, a temple to worship and love. Yeah… sometimes she caught the mischievous , dirty look in his eyes, their look. At first she had been afraid pregnancy would turn her in a satisfied housewife. On the contrary, passion was still the same if not better. The only thing she wanted was to go home and lay in her bed with Derek holding her tight. Brad could disappear. Cristina brought her back from her daydreaming) Earth to Meredith?

Meredith: yeah… sorry. It's just… you know I want to lead the game and this time… I couldn't. But it was an earthquake and it's not the reason why I'm pissed. I saw the police accompanying Tim out before.

Cristina: yeah… Owen told me. But he won't have consequences. People like him never have.

Meredith: maybe you're right.

Cristina: so… (she stands up and Meredith does too) Ready to go and drink our ass off?

Meredith: positive

Cristina: let's go (they take their coats and bags and leave) And I could ask Sheperd to give Owen a lecture on this (Meredith rolls her eyes) ok… ok…

---

Each one's breaking point is like an oasis in the desert.

At some point you want it, you look for it as you can't stand to keep everything inside.

But despite this… despite you're ready, you don't know you're there till when you don't start to fume

---

Mark's pager beeps again and he crosses the hall with quick, resolute steps. He turns the corner and Alex joins him, his pager ringing too.

Alex: what's going on? (they hear screams and noise coming from Tracy's room, in front of the door they see the girl is in her bed and Nick is standing in front of her. They go in)

Tracy: so that's what you want, Nick?

Nick: no… it's not. I'm just trying to talk to you and you won't listen

Tracy: I'm listening. And seriously, I don't have a clue where all this comes from. I thought you were happy about the marriage.

Nick: I am happy

Tracy: it doesn't look to me. You have just told me I'm wasting everything.

Nick: I didn't say that

Mark: mrs. Vince

Tracy: just stay out of this (her eyes widen in anger towards Mark and Alex).

Nick: honey

Tracy: leave (Alex looks at Mark and Sloan nods, Karev leaves)

Mark: I get this is a private conversation and I give you the privacy you need. But this is hospital and you can't yell like that. Take your time from everything and slow down, you had a surgery and you're still recovering. I'll be right out if you need anything (he leaves and joins Alex at the nurses station)

Alex: what the hell is going on?

Mark: the guy raised his head. Finally.

Nick: Tracy… I love you, you know I do. I've been sensing this for long and I've decided to tell you.

Tracy: tell me what? That all your friends hate me?

Nick: they don't hate you. They just can't stand you talking and talking about our wedding and your ideologies.

Tracy: it's what I think. I have a right to express what I think.

Nick: nobody says you can't. But there's way and way to do it (the girl snorts and he goes sitting on the bed, he takes her hand in his). You're a beautiful woman, you have principles, you feel the values your parents taught you. But there are people who don't share the same things or, if they do, they had to change their mind… Do you like Andrea and Joelle?

Tracy: of course I do

Nick: well, they have a baby and they aren't married yet. Do you like them less now?

Tracy: no

Nick: it's what I think. I don't want you to forget who you are and where you come from, I just would like you to talk about different things sometimes. You are clever, you have a lot of hobbies. Can't we avoid to talk about morality if others don't bring us in the battlefield?

Tracy: I guess we can

Nick: and you can talk of organization. Girls like to hear about clothes and food and made of honors.

Tracy: just not every day, every dinner, every phone call.

Nick: that's what I wanted to say. I wouldn't do anything differently, love, I promise. I just want other people to know you. You built on a wall and everybody bounces on that. You have so many things to give and say. Don't close yourself in a cliché.

Tracy: ok.

Nick: really?

Tracy: yes. I'm sorry I turned our marriage in a nightmare for you.

Nick: don't be stupid, it's still my dream coming true. And now I'll be able to show my real princess to the world (he gets closer and kisses her, her face rests on his shoulder and he shrugs her back)

Tracy: so… who complained about my manners? (Nick chuckles and breaks the hug, he looks at her)

Nick: nice try

Tracy: what?

Nick: I may be showing you all around but I know you can be a green horrible monster if you want. I'll never tell you who is the traitor

Tracy: I'll figure it out anyway (they kiss again and Alex and Mark look at the two of them)

Mark: you owe me a twenty, Karev (Alex fishes a banknote out of his pants, he sets it in Mark's open palm)

Alex: I really thought he was going to dump her and never look back

Mark: you overestimated the guy's balls.

Alex: I just thought he got to the breaking point (Mark chuckles)

Mark: there's no breaking point with women like that. They just make a pudding with your bones and convince you you're wrong even when you're in the damn right. It's amazing like they always can do that.

Alex: amazing in a horrific way

Mark: see you at Joe's?

Alex: of course (Mark leaves and Alex lingers a moment to look to Nick and Tracy who are still hugging)

---

Sometimes the moment dies before you can experience it.

You realized you built useless castles in your head.

Other times… , anger just bubbles up

---

Bailey exits the hospital with Ben. They're holding their hands walking to the parking lot. Suddenly Miranda notices there's a man leaning against her car door. They walk closer and find Tuck waiting for them. She tries to free her hand from Ben's grip but he holds tighter and she can't. He gives her a reassuring squeeze.

Bailey: Tucker… what can I do for you?

Tucker: who's he? (he gives Ben a strict look, despite the harshness in his voice, Ben stretches his hand)

Ben: Ben Warren… nice to meet you (his hand stays limp in the air, Tucker turns back to Bailey)

Tucker: can we talk in private?

Bailey: he can hear whatever you want to tell me.

Tucker: oh… right. My lawyer called me this morning after he talked to yours.

Bailey: and?

Tucker: for a moment he had convinced me it was better to let it go… the appeal for the joined custody (Miranda breaths out) and I came here to tell you. But now (he gives Ben a meaningful and cold look) I realize I was doing a terrible mistake.

Bailey: what do you mean?

Tucker: is this the life you want to give to our son? (Ben feels Bailey tensing, he squeezes her hand)

Bailey: excuse me?

Tucker: how long have you been seeing him in front of my son?

Bailey: it's none of your business. But, for the record, much later you started to date Francine

Tucker: how do you know about her? (Miranda chuckles)

Bailey: relax, I didn't hire a private investigator or stalked you myself. Tuck told me (Tucker looks thoughtful) Oh yes… your son… our son… he may be six but he gets things. You told him she was a babysitter or anything but he got she was your friend. And guess what? He was happy for you. And I was too. I thought maybe you could build yourself a new life with someone closer to your idea of woman and family.

Tucker: and I'm doing it.

Bailey: good to know. So… did you come here to tell me you don't want to give up on Tuck's custody? Fine… We'll meet in the next few days (she makes a step forward with Ben but Tucker doesn't move)

Tucker: if I signed your custody… would you let me see Tuck?

Bailey: how can you think I wouldn't?

Tucker: and let him go camping with me in summer and holidays?

Bailey: every time he wants. You're his father, Tucker. I don't want to find him a new dad.

Tucker: what about him, then? (Bailey keeps silent and Ben looks down at her. She's tensed and he realizes she's fighting anger. He squeezes her hand but she stays silent. When she finally speaks, it's a hiss which comes out of her lips)

Bailey: how do you dare?

Ben: Miranda?

Bailey: how do you dare to judge me or the person I chose?

Tucker: I have every right to do it.

Bailey: no you haven't. You haven't a damn right to do it.

Tucker: you are the people I should allow to raise my son.

Bailey: I'm not people. I'm his mother. And he's my son too. You haven't learnt to come down that damned pedestal, have you? (Tucker chuckles and Bailey gets even more mad) You think you can spend your life judging others. Have you ever tried to build yourself something?

Tucker: here we go again…

Bailey: you've never worked a sole day in your life but you keep telling others how to do their job and how not to do it. I have even felt guilty about that. I thought I had taken something from you, that I had averted you from having a normal life, an occupation or whatever. Now I know you didn't want anything different. You are just able to destroy, to undergo. Now you have to do something on your own and you don't have a damn clue how to do it (her voice in now really high and Ben looks worried between the former husband and wife)

Tucker: are you done?

Bailey: no. I'm not. But I'll shut up as I don't want to make a damn circus in the parking lot.

Tucker: it's a little bit late for that, don't you think? (Bailey looks around and notices some people looking at them, they all look away crossing her look)

Bailey: you want to give up the appeal? Do it. You don't want? Go ahead. Just stay the hell away from me till I remember why and how I fell in love with you. As for now… I'm really questioning my mental health (she pulls Ben behind her and they leave)

---

If it explodes or not… it depends on you.

Sometimes it's a silent bomb.

Heavy words without screaming.

Some say it's what hurts more

---

Meredith, Derek, Cristina, Owen, Mark, Lexie and Alex are sitting at Joe's. The bar is overcrowded, they have empty glasses on their table, others filled and a pot of peanuts Meredith is eating all by herself.

Lexie: so what are we celebrating? (she looks between Derek and Meredith, Sheperd gives a quick warning look to Mark)

Mark: nothing, Lex. Shep wanted to spend a night with friends before Avery cuts him up.

Alex: you're lucky he's not here. The guy can't take a beer without falling on his nose after (he gulps his own beer)

Derek: thank you, Karev.

Mark: you know, man… after teaching these people I can't get why you didn't ask the chief to make the procedure himself…

Derek: Bailey will be there, Mark. And I taught good. So I expect good.

Meredith: the same can't be said for you.

Mark: what do you mean? (she is chewing peanuts and peeling others)

Meredith: interns who worked with you… but Lexie of course… could be great waiters and laundry men (everyone laughs and Mark looks offended)

Mark: that was old Sloan

Meredith: maybe… But new Sloan is recently born so… it's better you take care of yourself till… what's his new intern's name?

Cristina: 3

Meredith: oh come on…

Cristina: what? 3 was assigned to him

Lexie: it's Richards… 3 is Richards

Meredith: so… Richards doesn't get the difference between a suit and a spleen (they all laugh, Alex takes a look around and notices Avery sitting with his grand pa. He swallows and lowers on the table)

Alex: Avery snobs us tonight as grand daddy has blessed him with his presence (Meredith and Cristina straighten up to see)

Cristina: good Avery is here?

Owen: good Avery?

Cristina: the doctor one

Derek: and what is Jackson? A vet?

Cristina: no, otherwise Meredith would have a thing for him (Meredith shows her tongue to Cristina and opens other peanuts). Do you know if he operated here?

Meredith: I didn't see his name on the board today

Alex: the Chief would spread the news everywhere for advertising. He was probably around and paid a visit to baby Avery.

Cristina: maybe you're right. I'd know if he was here to operate.

Owen: how?

Meredith: she'd receive a personal fax and invitation, don't you know that? (everyone laughs and Cristina slaps Meredith's wrist for joke)

Cristina: you bitch! (Meredith was holding her glass, she winces at the contact and let the glass fall on the table)

Owen: Cristina! (he tries to collect the liquid spreading on the table and soaking everything, Derek messages Meredith's hand, she still has a grimace of pain)

Cristina: don't blame me, blame him (she points to Derek and he frowns, Meredith tries to change topic)

Meredith: I'm fine.

Derek: what did I do this time? (Cristina looks at him and he's smiling, relaxed)

Meredith: nothing. You know she blames you for the rain and the sun.

Cristina: don't tell him that or he'll seriously think he's God. Don't be too smug, though. If you think I wouldn't talk of your dirty affairs here… you really don't know me…

Derek: dirty affairs? (he raises a brow and Cristina bends on the table)

Cristina: the way you did her hands. You were too taken in the aftermath to even realize she was all beaten up, weren't you? (Meredith is playing nervously with her sleeves, Derek looks at Cristina not knowing what she's talking about. She on the contrary believes he's embarrassed and chuckles) Don't worry. She said it was worth (she turns around to take a look in the bar and Derek looks at Meredith, his eyes cast down on her wrists and, while she plays with the sweater, he has the chance to take a quick glance to a bruise darkening her skin. He stops her hand and tries to pull the wristband on. She stops him)

Meredith: Derek, please (her voice is shaking and this worries him even more. He wins her resistance and raises her sleeves discovering long, dark signs on her wrists and forearms. Even the others look at them and Cristina laughs and pats Owen's shoulder)

Cristina: and you complain about me?

Derek: what happened? (he looks to Meredith who's biting her lower lip)

Cristina: sex Sheperd. Dirty On Call Room, today. Have you really forgotten? (Owen notices the tension of the situation and takes Cristina's hand) What? (she looks at Owen who lowers his eyes and then to Meredith and Derek) Oh…

Derek: Meredith…

Meredith: it's nothing. I was adjusting stuff in a closet and boxes fell on me. Seriously, I'm good (Derek passes his fingers delicately on Meredith's arms)

Derek: it looks like someone hold you (he looks up and Meredith is on the verge of crying. Derek searches her eyes trying to get why she doesn't talk to him. And then reality strikes. He lets go of Meredith's hands and sinks against the backrest of his chair)

Meredith: Derek… it's nothing (he's shaking his head in disbelief)

Derek: that son of a bitch (he stands up and storms out of the bar)

Owen: Sheperd!

Meredith: you just couldn't keep your mouth shut, could you?

Cristina: what? (Owen stands up with Mark) What the hell is going on? (Meredith stands up too) Where are you going?

Meredith: looking for Derek before he kills him (she takes her coat and goes out with Owen and Mark)

---

Breaking point…

End of transmissions…

Wide rage…

---

Derek exits the bar and chills, he has forgotten his coat in the bar but he has no idea to go back. Anger is walking for him now. He searches the parking lot till he notices a familiar frame near a car. He gets closer quickly.

Derek: Brad (the surgeon turns around, before he has the time to even say a word Derek hits him on the jaw. Brad recoils against the car, standing only for its support, a hand on his face)

Brad: what the hell… (he turns around and Derek takes him by his collar with both hands. Owen and Mark are looking for him from the exit bar, they hear a noise and locate Derek)

Mark: crap… (they run in their direction)

Derek: I talked to you once and I thought I was pretty clear, wasn't I? (he shakes Brad violently) I told you to stay the hell away from my wife but you just couldn't…

Brad: what the hell are you talking about?

Derek: just shut up before I really hurt you (he jerks him again) You're a coward and a bastard. You like to feel the power and the control, right? (Mark and Owen arrives behind Derek out of breath, Meredith joins them too)

Meredith: Derek!

Derek: this is your last call, Brad. If you lay a hand on my wife again or if you lay a hand on someone else's wife again I swear to God this punch would fell like a caress in compare (Owen and Mark take Derek off Brad. Greg messages his face and then searches his hand for blood. His fingers and lightly red and he feels his lower lip bleeding)

Brad: how do you dare? (Derek's face hardens in anger once more but Owen stops him before he can approach Brad again. He restrains his shoulders)

Owen: Derek, he's not worth (Derek frees his hands pulling and Meredith gets closer, she touches his forearm to calm him down)

Brad: she wasn't worth (a bubble of anger explodes in Derek's chest, he tries to block it down but it's too strong. He feels it in his throat, a heavy ball which won't go up or down. He turns around and before Owen or Mark can get his intentions, he hits Brad's jaw again, knocking him down. Despite their college is on the ground, anyone moves to help him). You know… I think you can say farewell to your job, Sheperd… (he leans on the car to face Derek from the ground. A nervous chuckle escapes Derek's mouth)

Derek: do you think I care about it right now?

Brad: you should

Derek: no, I shouldn't and I don't. And you wouldn't do either. As you're the only one who harassed a resident and… (he forces the word out of his throat) hurt her. Which bastard does that? You can't take a no as an answer, can you? You behave like a latin lover but you're so damned wrong. You have to use the force to kiss a woman. You really have to be proud of that. So… now we have pointed out who you are, let's be clear on two things (he makes a step forward, Owen tries to stop him but Derek gets free from his grip). I was not kidding on what I said before… you touch my wife again, even for giving her a chart or anything, and you're dead. I pray for you those bruises it's all she has because I could even not wait for the next time, you're an animal and a sociopath and I'll treat you like that. Do I make myself clear? (Brad is looking to him serious now, his grin has disappeared quickly and he's pondering his chances, he swallows without answering) Did I make myself clear? (Meredith flinches as his voice is high and commending)

Brad: yes

Derek: as it comes to my work, tomorrow I will tell Webber I want to take the Head of the Department back, immediate effect. I will watch you, Brad. You'll have my breath on your neck every day, every second, everywhere. I won't take what happened in the hospital, not for you, but for my wife. I expect your resignation on my desk tomorrow or I'll make personally sure your life here will be a living hell for the next two months. Take this as your goodbye party (he turns around and folds Meredith's shoulders with an arm. He nods to Mark and Owen and they all leave Brad, still sit on the ground)

---

Mummy taught you not to use hands, not to call names.

But when it's time… it's time

---

Owen and Cristina enter their apartment. He snorts turning on the light, his coat flies on a chair.

Cristina: I really wanted to see Sheperd kicking his ass (they both sink on the sofa) Better.. I wanted to take part to the kicking.

Owen: it was better this way (he rubs his eyes tiredly)

Cristina: yeah… men always take the fun for them

Owen: it was everything but funny (he leans the head to the pillow looking up) There was a moment I really thought… I thought Derek could lose control…

Cristina: Sheperd never loses control. He yells… a lot, but he never loses control.

Owen: you didn't see him there

Cristina: no, but I guess he went in Meredith-is-in-danger mode… better…. You-hurt-my-wife mode

Owen: who wouldn't?

Cristina: you'd beat the crap out of someone for me?

Owen: of course I would. If Brad did that to you… Derek was even too nice (Cristina grins and jumps on Hunt's knees, she closes her arms behind his neck and kisses him)

Cristina: have I ever told you how hot you are when you're pissed? (she licks his lips sensually and Owen closes his eyes, Cristina grins feeling his pants tensing under her, she attacks his neck but Owen opens his eyes and stands up lifting her) Hey… you want to go to the bedroom? (she keeps kissing him but suddenly he sets her down and stops her hands)

Owen: I can't do this anymore

Cristina: sure you can (she tries to kiss him again but he stops her)

Owen: Cristina…

Cristina: what? (she looks up, her lips still swollen from the hot kisses)

Owen: I want to talk to you… I want us to talk

Cristina: and we'll talk (her hands snakes under his shirt, her fingers playing with his navel)

Owen: no (he takes her wrist and walks away, Cristina is bewildered. Owen rakes a hand through his hair and stops near the door, leaning on it). It's since that dinner with Derek and Meredith that you're avoiding me.

Cristina: avoiding you? I've spent the last days on top of you. Were you too out to remember?

Owen: don't play with me, Cristina. I know that's your way to avoid the speech we should do. Do you want kids or not?

Cristina: excuse me?

Owen: do you want kids or not? It's a simple question. Yes or no, in or out, take or leave.

Cristina: it's not so easy

Owen: it is. I am not asking if you want them now, I know it would be bad timing. I'm asking you if, in the future, in your future with me, you are considering the idea of kids (Cristina sits on the couch, head in her hands)

Cristina: you don't have any idea of what you're asking me (Owen sits near her)

Owen: is it for your abortion? (Cristina looks at him, her eyes are lucid and Owen takes her hand)

Cristina: I can have kids if it's what you're asking

Owen: I wasn't asking that

Cristina: I'm a surgeon, Owen. The only thing I wanted in my life was holding a scalpel and do surgeries. Then Burke came, he got me pregnant and left me, we got back together and he left me on the altar.

Owen: and you're scared I could leave you?

Cristina: I'm scared I could take into consideration the idea of changing my priorities for someone who could just disappear in thin air. I don't want a baby, Owen. Not for myself.

Owen: so what?

Cristina: do we have to talk about this now? (she stands up and walks through the room just to do something)

Owen: when do you want to discuss it? When we're married and someone gets really hurt?

Cristina: what do you mean?

Owen: people break up for stuff like this.

Cristina: excuse me?

Owen: wanting or not wanting kids is not like changing couch or moving in another place. This decision is life changing. And I'd like to know if you have preclusions of this kind.

Cristina: so if I don't want a kid with you you'll leave me?

Owen: I'm not saying that

Cristina: oh yes… oh yes instead (her voice is shaking but Owen can clearly see the anger in Cristina's eyes). How could I be so stupid? (Owen stands up to face her, hands on his sides, he tries to catch her arm but she answers hitting his chest) You are all the same. You say good things and make promises but you're so the damned ready to call yourself out if something puts at stake your career or your idea of perfect family. You are an hypocrite

Owen: it's not like that

Cristina: no? And what is like? Is it like you're going to love me anyway? Let's make a try… I don't want kids. I don't want anything which can interfere with my career. So… take or leave, Owen?

Owen: you've got to be kidding (he makes a step towards the bedroom but she takes his wrist and holds him tight)

Cristina: yes or no? (he pulls and she lets him go)

Owen: you can't do that… You can't manipulate me and use me like an object and then ambush me in this…

Cristina: but you can corner me and ask me if I want your stupid babies (Owen shakes his head in disbelief)

Owen: I wanted to talk to you. Have you ever done this with your partner… talking?

Cristina: not if it was not necessary. And this was totally unnecessary now.

Owen: so you want me to buy that you were going to face the topic by yourself?

Cristina: when it would be proper, yes.

Owen: determine your idea of proper, Cristina (she keeps silent and Owen chuckles) You see? You are not able to face topics as you're emotively immature, you think that to round the obstacle is the better way to find a solution but it's not like that. I could face you, I could face your determination and decision, really… I could. But what freaks me out is that you use your body not to use your heart. And you're my fiancé and I want you to speak to me from your heart. There's nothing you can't say to me, you should know by now.

Cristina: apparently there's something

Owen: I didn't want to corner you, Cristina. But you did. You did corner yourself and me too (he walks quickly to his bedroom and Cristina follows him, he's picking up his stuff)

Cristina: what are you doing?

Owen: I'm going out. We'll end up making sex and… I don't want that (he leaves, she stays in the bedroom and hears the door closing behind his back)

---

Our best techniques sometimes don't suit the occasion.

We pushed our luck too far and the consequences are there… lingering in the air

---

Meredith and Derek are in the kitchen. Derek is taking medical stuff off a closet, Meredith is sitting at the counter. There's a heavy silence filling the room, the only noise the shutters opening and closing. Meredith follows Derek with her eyes, she can clearly see the stiffness of his movements, the nervousness radiating from his frame. All his muscles are tensed. He sits in front of her and gasps seeing her arms. He diverts his eyes opening a bottle of cream and dry ice.

Meredith: Derek… please… tell me something

Derek: I'm too mad to talk right now, Mer. I'm sorry

Meredith: you have a right to be mad at me, I know

Derek: mad at you? Why? (their eyes meet and Meredith gets sadness and tiredness)

Meredith: I had to be more careful with him. You told me and I… I didn't think he could go that far

Derek: I didn't either (he sets ice on her arms and Meredith whimpers. She lowers her eyes and sees a bruise on one of Derek's knuckles)

Meredith: you should put ice on that too

Derek: I'm fine (Meredith giggles) And finally my hand will be surely better than his face. I'm sorry I wasn't there to protect you. The fact he touched you just…

Meredith: I know. Do you think he'll report to Webber?

Derek: he would be a fool if he did. But we can never let the guard down with animals like that (he sighs and Meredith realizes he looks awful)

Meredith: I'm sorry, Derek

Derek: stop saying that… it wasn't your fault… It's my fault

Meredith: what?

Derek: I had to do something before. He told me he was attracted by you. But you looked so sure to be able to control him, I didn't want to interfere in your work and I thought that maybe I was too jealous to be rational. If I had an idea of what he was planning…

Meredith: nothing could have. I said him clearly I didn't want to have anything to do with him. Even when he entered that room today I had no idea. We were talking normally and then he started doing the flirting thing and I tried to go away.

Derek: and he stopped you… (Meredith nods) I had promised myself not to let this happen ever again

Meredith: what?

Derek: it was my fault, Meredith

Meredith: why do you keep saying that?

Derek: I let him space to doubt of me, of my feelings. It's what happened with my sisters. And I had sworn not to let it happen again. I… the world should know how much I love you. You should know.

Meredith: I do know

Derek: but it's not enough, Mer. I thought it was but I was wrong. Every time I'll have an accident there will be someone telling you to go away, there will be a Brad telling you this baby has no father. Our post it is perfect but it doesn't protect you from the world, from stupidity, from the prejudices of other people, it doesn't protect you from the laws of this country.

Meredith: I don't give a crap of… (Derek jumps on his feet)

Derek: I do. And I won't let anyone treat you again like this

Meredith: so? (she frowns seeing Derek getting down on one knee) Derek?

Derek: I knew I promised not to get down on one knee… I know I promised not to pop the question. I love you, Meredith. I love you more than ever and I want to spend the rest of my life with you… the all of you (he touches her belly).

Meredith: I do too

Derek: will you marry me then? (Meredith's mouth opens in shock) I don't have a ring to give you, not another at least… This wasn't planned… I planned it a lot of time ago and then I never ended up like this. Please, Meredith (she pulls his hand and he stands up, his hand still in hers)

Meredith: you don't need to beg me (she giggles and Derek relaxes, he smiles)

Derek: I was not

Meredith: you so were (he pulls her standing and she closes her arms around his waist) I like begging Derek… (he kisses her deeply and she moans)

Derek: I'm not the one who begs usually. So what's your affirmative answer? (Meredith giggles and Derek rocks her)

Meredith: I might say yes

Derek: I love you (he kisses her neck and he feels her chilling, he strokes her sides and Meredith tries to stop his fingers)

Meredith: Derek…

Derek: what? (she can't see his face but she can bet he's smiling)

Meredith: I… (he straddles his groin against her and she clearly feels his arousal, he moves her hair to the side and attacks her neck)

Derek: what? (his hot breath tickles her skin and she moans again)

Meredith: please…

Derek: who is begging now?

Meredith: screw your pride. You won, just make love to me, now (their eyes meet and he lifts her carrying her up the stairs to their bedroom)

---

But there's a great thing in breaking points.

They clear the space, they erase the background.

And you can start new