Chapter 36
"Why did you do that?" J.J. asked, really not sounding upset.
"Even now." He said, smiling behind his mask.
"Oh you…you.. Aaagghhh." J.J. said, knowing he did owe her for all the teasing she'd done.
Kane just laughed at her obvious frustration.
"Remind me not to tease you. Your paybacks are a bitch." J.J. said, knowing she'd keep teasing him anyway.
Nodding, Kane draped his arm over her shoulder. Wrapping her arm around his waist, they started walking.
Once they'd seen all the animals and the other zoo attractions. They decided to wander in the park itself for a little while.
Going back to the SUV, Kane stopped her in front of a large flowering bush. Then he backed up and lifted his camera.
"Kane, I don't like having my picture taken." She said.
"Have mine?" He said simply.
Rolling her eyes, she nodded and stood still.
Kane motioned for her to take off her camera. So she did.
So he wants a picture of me? She thought, smiling broadly and beginning to strike silly poses.
Kane took several shots. Then put his camera down and walked toward her.
Thank you. He thought, pulling her into a fierce hug.
"You're welcome." She said, hugging him back.
Sometimes I swear she's reading my mind. He thought, as he broke the hug.
J.J. asked a passerby to take their picture. They stood together with her standing in his embrace.
They stopped to eat on the way back to the hotel. Once there, they spent a quiet evening listening to the radio.
This is really nice. J.J. thought, leaning her head back against his chest and closing her eyes.
Waking up the next morning she found herself curled up next to his side in bed. Raising her head she saw that he was still asleep.
Smiling J.J. put her head back on his chest and closed her eyes again.
Getting up, Kane got his book and took a seat on the couch. He tried to read but all he could think about was the beautiful woman in the other room and how much he wanted to touch her.
No, I won't wake her. She looked really tired last night. He thought, trying to control his desire.
Waking up later, J.J. saw that she was alone. She got up and found him sitting on the couch.
She walked by him and into her room. Picking out some clothes she laid them out on the bed and then went into the bathroom.
Hearing her shower turn on, Kane got up and walked toward her room.
I think she'll need a little help reaching her back. He thought growing aroused at the memories of other showers they'd shared.
Stopping in her bedroom, he undressed and lay his clothing on the bed with hers. Then walking into the bathroom he was surprised to hear the shower turn off.
Beautiful, so incredible, I need her so bad. He thought, as she stepped out of the shower still glistening with water.
"Oh were you…" J.J. started to say, but was cut off when Kane crossed the room and kissed her.
HOLY SHIT! J.J. thought, when he moved her back pinning her against the wall while still holding a very passionate kiss.
Releasing her lips at last, His mouth moved to her neck and ear.
Tastes so good, so soft in my hands, Need more. He thought, desperately as his hands roamed her body and he nibbled hungrily at her neck.
"Oh baby." J.J. moaned, as his urgency heightened her own desire.
Reaching down she began to stroke his hard member. He continued his almost violent assault of pleasure on her.
Need you NOW! He thought, bending his head to suckle her nipples.
He slid his hand between her legs and stroked her center.
"Oh god! That's so good." J.J. whimpered, at his contact with her womanhood.
Not ready for me. He thought with frustration. Need her wet.
Pushing his finger inside her, He redoubled his oral attacks on her neck and breasts. Reaching down he slowed her hand on his cock.
Better he thought, as he heard her begin to cry out and pant.
OH, he's so different. J.J. thought, wondering about, but enjoying the change.
Almost he thought, feeling her get slicker.
He added a second finger, and began rubbing her clit with his thumb.
Yes, he thought, when she began to rock against his hand.
"OH OH OH." She sighed softly.
Now! He thought, pulling his fingers free of her wet folds.
He pulled her away from the wall and bent her over the vanity.
What? She wondered, as she quickly braced her hands.
Holding her hips he pushed forward burying himself completely inside her.
"AAAGGGHHH!" J.J.'s cry echoed off the tiled walls.
"Baby." She moaned, as he began to move, every stroke pushing her forward slightly.
So good, oh yeah. He thought, pulling almost all the way out and snapping his hips forward hard.
Raising her head, she watched him in the still steamy mirror.
That's so hot. She thought, seeing his head thrown back, muscles straining and rippling as he moved and his face a mask of pleasure.
"Kane you feel so good. More baby, please." J.J. panted, pushing back to meet his movement.
That's it baby. Oh yeah. He thought when he felt her walls begin to clutch at him.
Still watching him in the mirror, J.J. felt her climax quickly approaching.
"I'm Cumming love.. Oh cum with me baby." J.J. cried loudly, as he continued to ride her.
YES! He thought when she lifted her hips slightly.
Thrusting once more, he came hard, nearly collapsing with the aftermath.
Oh shit! What have I done? He thought when he opened his eyes and saw that he was holding her down, bent awkwardly over the vanity.
Feeling sick and angry with himself, he withdrew and quickly left the room. Grabbing his clothes as he went to his room and went out into the hallway.
J.J. stayed still for a bit, enjoying the small aftershocks of her orgasm.
Oh man, that was so… J.J. thought, unable to find the right word.
Opening her eyes, she stood up. Turning around, she was surprised when she didn't see him. Then picking up her facecloth she cleaned herself up and went into the bedroom.
Once in his room he yanked his clothes on quickly.
How could I have done that? I practically raped her. He thought, berating himself angrily for losing control.
Kane paced trying to find the words to tell her how sorry he was.
Stopping in her bedroom, J.J. pulled on her panties and shirt. Then she went looking for him.
Walking into his room she stopped and watched him.
What's wrong? Did I miss something? Is he upset because of the mirror? J.J. wondered.
"Baby?" J.J. said, trying to get his attention.
How can she even look at me after what I just did?" He wondered, as she entered.
"What happened?" J.J. asked.
Bringing the box up he tried to say the words. To plead for her forgiveness, but no sound escaped his clenched throat.
It's been a while since he was too upset to talk to me. J.J. thought, stepping closer to hug him.
Kane stepped quickly backward in shock.
What the hell is he doing? J.J. wondered, surprised when he avoided her embrace.
"Kane, baby?" J.J. said, with confusion.
Kane tried to speak again. When he failed, he turned away.
Damn it I should have left. Now I'm making things harder for her. He thought.
Walking up behind him, J.J. wrapped her arms around his waist and locked her hands. Kane stiffened but didn't try to pull away.
"Love take your time and tell me why you're upset. Baby I love you; no matter what it is we'll fix it, ok?" J.J. said softly, and then kissed the back of his neck.
How can she say that? He wondered, his eyes filling with tears.
Still holding him she saw him lower his head and felt his breath catch.
Is he crying? Shit what is going on here? J.J. wondered, releasing him and moving in front of him.
What the hell? She thought when she saw that he was.
"Oh Kane, I didn't mean to make you cry." J.J. said.
J.J. leave before I hurt you again. Kane thought, as she stepped in front of him.
Taking his hand she brought him unresisting to the couch.
"Sit down." J.J. said sternly.
I will find out what's wrong if I have to beat it out of him. J.J. thought.
Kneeling beside him on the couch, she pulled him into an embrace.
"Come on love, calm down so you can tell me what's upsetting you. I want to help." J.J. said, rubbing his back and holding him close.
How can she not know? Does she think I could do that to her; hurt her and not be upset? Kane thought.
A few minutes later, he finally had control. Pulling away from her, He put some distance between them.
"Do you think you can talk to me now? Or should I get some paper?" she asked, sounding worried.
Still unable to meet her eyes he brought the box up.
"Attacked hurt you." He said slowly.
What is he talking about? J.J. wondered, trying to figure out where he got that.
"I'm not sure I understand you." J.J. said sounding confused.
How can that not be clear? He thought.
"Bathroom forced used hurt you." He said, feeling his heart tear with every word.
Shit, that's what this is about. He thinks what happened in there was wrong. J.J. thought, shocked at this revelation.
"Kane, you neither hurt nor used me. There's nothing wrong with what you and I did. Sure I was surprised at first. But it was a good surprise." J.J. said, watching him to be sure he knew she was serious.
But I just took you. How can that be right? He wondered, still upset.
"If that was an attack, then I attacked you first; that day on the couch. When I just opened your pants and drove myself down onto you." She said smiling.
Raising his head he finally looked at her.
She's serious. Kane realized.
"Kane, if you ever really hurt me or did something I didn't want believe me you'd know about it." J.J. said, leaning forward and giving him a kiss. "Nothing wrong with spontaneity or trying something new, it's how we'll learn about each other."
Kane just watched her, smiling at last.
"Now I need another shower." J.J. said, expecting him to join her.
Guess he doesn't want one. It's actually a good thing we have to leave soon. Our flight to Jacksonville Tennessee is at two. J.J. thought, as she stepped into the shower alone.
Getting up, Kane went into his bathroom and showered.
Should have known she would have stopped me. He thought, smiling as he showered.
When she finished, she dressed and began packing. He did the same.
Walking into her room, he smiled watching her putter around as she hummed.
"All set." She said, before turning around to face him.
How did she know I was here? He wondered, cocking his head.
I still need to tell him about Vince. I don't want him to find out from someone else. J.J. remembered suddenly.
"Kane, I need to tell you about the meeting with Vince. I want to be sure I'm the one to tell you." She said.
Somehow I don't think I'm going to like this. He thought, already getting tense.
Nodding, Kane went and sat down.
"I think you're getting too used to this." J.J. laughed. "Seems like I'm always saying that to you."
Kane laughed and nodded.
"Ok, Vince is insisting that I finish the Ministry shoot. Before you get upset I already told him I wouldn't do it unless he could assure me it would be safe." J.J. said, waiting for him to explode.
It's not a good idea. Kane thought. No matter what 'Protection' Vince provides. If Mark wants you, he'll have you.
"Not like." He said.
Well he's taking that well. But I still don't think I'm going to tell him about the contract. J.J. decided.
"I know you don't. I'm really not too happy about it myself. But it's the job." J.J. said.
"What else?" He said, knowing she'd been gone too long for only that.
"Well he knows about the tape." J.J. said.
She told him exactly what had been said about it. To prepare him in case he was questioned too.
Kane just smiled.
We knew he'd find out. Question is what's he going to do about it? Kane wondered.
"He's also not too pleased about us." J.J. said, stating the obvious.
"Knew wouldn't be." Kane said, still smiling.
"Yeah. Now we just have to wait and wonder what he'll do about us and the tape." She said.
She's hiding something. Kane realized, watching her.
"All?" He asked.
"All that I was worried about." She replied smiling.
I'm not worried about the contract. I'll just have to watch Vince and his brat to be sure they don't pull anything. Besides if I tell him about losing the contract he'll only get upset needlessly. J.J. thought.
"Good." He said.
"If we go now, we'll be able to get some real food on the way to the airport. I know how much you love airplane food." J.J. laughed.
Kane smiled and went to grab his bags.
Getting to the hotel in Jacksonville, They found they were among the first to arrive.
"Feel up to hitting the gym?" J.J. asked, once they'd gotten up to their room.
Nodding, Kane opened his bag and pulled out some sweats.
Going into the gym, they were surprised to see X-Pac there alone.
Where are the rest of them? Kane wondered, knowing from experience that they were always together.
J.J. looked over at the smallest DX member, with a mixture of confusion and anxiety.
Finishing up his current set, X-Pac got up and walked toward them.
What is he doing? Kane wondered.
"Relax guys, they're not here yet. I flew out early." X-Pac said.
They just stared at him, neither knowing what to expect.
"I hoped I would get the chance to talk to you both." He continued.
"Go ahead." J.J. said, after seeing Kane nod.
"I wanted to congratulate you two. It's good to see you happy Kane." He said.
If you cared about his happiness you wouldn't have hurt him like you did. J.J. thought. But, He seems sincere. Even his body language is showing honesty and openness.
Kane cocked his head, still staring daggers at the younger man, waiting for the other shoe to drop.
I won't fall for your lies again. Kane thought, watching him warily.
"That tape was a great piece of work. But Hunter is really hot about it. He's determined to make you both pay. He really can't let you get away with it." He finished with a shrug. "I think he really means to do some damage to you Kane. I just wanted you to know."
"We've already figured that out. But why do you care. You are one of them." J.J. said sounding pissed.
"Just because I'm with them, doesn't mean I like everything they do." X-Pac said, with a shrug.
He regrets what's happened and he actually looks afraid for Kane. J.J. realized.
But you do it anyway. Kane thought bitterly.
"If you don't like it, why do you help them do it?" J.J. asked.
"I don't have a choice, I need them." He said.
Apparently more than you needed Kane's friendship. J.J. thought angrily.
"Is that all?" J.J. asked.
"Yeah." He said, turning and going back to his workout.
Looking up, J.J. saw anger in Kane's eyes, as he looked at his ex-friend.
Without even looking at her, he turned and walked away.
J.J. stood for a moment longer and watched Kane begin his routine. Then she began hers.
J.J. was between sets, when she saw X-Pac head for the door.
No way was all of that for show. He really regrets having hurt Kane. J.J. realized when she saw him look back at Kane from the doorway. If he was controlling his body language before, he wouldn't be now; he doesn't know he's being watched.
Does Kane know? Should I tell him? J.J. wondered.
Shaking her head, J.J. forced her mind back onto her workout.
Finishing up, she watched Kane. Then took the spotters position when he was ready, looking down into his eyes she could see anger. But she could also see sadness.
He still seems upset. I didn't realize he was still hurting so much from their betrayals. J.J. thought, feeling angry that they'd hurt such a good man.
"Go ahead and shower first babe. I have to cool down a little." J.J. said when they got upstairs.
Nodding he turned and went into the bathroom.
Coming out, Kane pulled on fresh clothes and went to sit on the couch.
Leave him alone. He'll talk to you when he's ready. J.J. told herself, as she showered.
Pulling on her nightclothes, J.J. went and sat down beside him. Moving closer she laid her head on his shoulder.
"I'm right here babe." J.J. whispered.
Need you close? He thought, pulling her closer and holding her.
I wish I could make him feel better. Take away what's hurting him. J.J. thought.
My Jayla, when they left me it hurt. But if you walk away I'll go mad. He thought, praying it would never happen.
After a while, J.J. started getting sleepy.
"Love." J.J. yawned. "I'm getting really tired."
Damn he's been quiet for so long. What's happening in that head of his? J.J. wondered.
Releasing her, he got up and held out his hand. When she took it he helped her up and led her to the bedroom.
He waited for her to climb into the bed. Then he joined her. Rolling over J.J. cuddled up against him. He wrapped his arm around her and pulled her as close as he could.
"Love you big guy." J.J. said, hugging him.
Love you too my sweet Jayla. He thought, picking up her hand and kissing her palm before placing it over his heart.
Someday I'll be able to tell you. He thought, closing his eyes.
J.J. just lay there a moment. As she did, the lyrics to a song began running through her mind.
It's like the song was written about him. J.J. thought.
['When you say nothing at all' By Alison Krauss]
It's amazing how you can speak right to my heart.
Without saying a word you can light up the dark.
Try as I may I could never explain,
What I feel when you don't say a thing.
The smile on your face lets me know that you need me.
There's a truth in your eyes saying you'll never leave me.
A touch of your hand says you'll catch me if ever I fall.
You say it best when you say nothing at all.
All alone I can hear people talking aloud,
But when you hold me near you drown out the crowd.
Old mister Webster could never define,
What's being said between your heart and mine?
The smile on your face lets me know that you need me.
There's a truth in your eyes saying you'll never leave me.
A touch of your hand says you'll catch me if ever I fall.
You say it best when you say nothing at all.
The smile on your face lets me know that you need me.
There's a truth in your eyes saying you'll never leave me.
A touch of your hand says you'll catch me if ever I fall.
You say it best when you say nothing at all.
Waking up the next morning, J.J. saw Kane staring down at her.
"Are you feeling better today?" She asked.
That's why she was quiet. She could tell I was upset. I forget she can do that. Kane thought. She was waiting for me.
Nodding, he smiled at her.
"I've been missing that." She said, sitting up and putting her hand on his cheek.
I'm glad to see him smile. He was so down yesterday. She thought.
"I know it's hard for you. But you can talk to me about anything. I would love to know everything about you. I'd like to know when you're hurting, and why." J.J. said.
I've already told her more than I've ever told anyone else. She knows about the fire. What else could she want to know? He wondered.
"Come here and give me a hug you great oaf." J.J. said, opening her arms for him.
Kane put a knee on the bed and leaned into her hug. Wrapping his arms around her he stood back up and pulled her off the bed. Turning slightly he set her feet on the floor, then pulled her into a tight embrace.
J.J. held him tightly as well.
"Air." J.J. said, after a few moments.
Kane loosened, up but only a little.
Well, at least now I can breathe. J.J. thought. But what's gotten into him. He hasn't done this in a while.
They stayed that way for a little longer, and then he slowly released her.
Stepping back, he put his fingers under her chin and tilted her head upward.
You are the best thing that ever happened to me. You've given me so much, shown me things I've never known. Things I thought I'd never have. He thought, looking down into her eyes and hoping she'd see that she'd understand what he couldn't say.
Ok, what is that look. I've never seen that expression from him before. J.J. thought, looking at him closely.
He broke the mood by leaning down and kissing her. The he backed away.
"Just let me get a shower and I'll be all set." J.J. said, going into the bathroom.
Kane just sat down on the couch and turned on the TV.
Do I tell her I face the Outlaws tonight or let her find out later? I know she'll worry and I hate doing that to her. Kane thought, as he stared into space.
X-Pac really triggered something last night. He seems so far away all of a sudden. J.J. thought, as she showered.
Getting out, she dressed and joined him on the couch. She sat there a while watching him.
"Ok enough! Start talking." J.J. said, pushing him a little.
Turning his head, he just looked at her.
What does she mean? He wondered.
"You've been a thousand miles away since the gym last night. Talk to me? I'll do whatever I can to help." She said.
How the hell can I answer that? I can't tell her that X-Pac reminded me that happiness never lasts for me. That I'm afraid she'll leave. He thought.
"Match planning." He said, looking at her again.
I don't believe that for a second. But I can't make him talk to me. J.J. thought, deciding to let it go.
"Oh," J.J. said. "Who do you face?"
"Outlaws." He replied, knowing she wouldn't like it.
"Well that just sucks; Now DX will have a reason to be out there." J.J. said with exasperation.
Nodding Kane looked away.
"Well, I guess we'd better head out." J.J. said, after a bit.
Kane got up and slid his mask on. Then went and picked up both their bags.
J.J. slid her glasses on and they left.
Maybe he'll talk to me after the match. J.J. thought hopefully. I don't think I can take this for much longer.
Once there, they found his locker room.
"Do you want me to go and get some tapes of Outlaw matches so we can watch them?" J.J. asked.
Kane shook his head and patted the seat beside him. Without a word, J.J. took a seat. He pulled her close and just held her.
Closing his eyes he tried to focus on his match.
Don't need tapes. I know what to expect from them. He thought.
They sat quietly, until time for the staff meeting.
During the meeting, J.J. kept glancing over at him.
He's so stiff. Like the first time I saw him. J.J. realized.
No doubt they're planning something big for tonight. They can't even sit still. Kane thought, looking over at DX.
When they were dismissed they went to the catering area and had a light meal before going back for the talent meeting.
Again it was Vince's usual meeting. Then requests were made and setup sheets distributed to everyone.
As they left the meeting Kane took her hand. They walked back to his locker room. Going inside, he kept hold of her hand as he shut the door and removed his mask.
"Sorry Jerk." He said, pointing to himself.
"No, just have a lot on your mind. That's ok. When you're ready to talk I'm here for you." She said, and then gave him a hug.
I know. He thought, realizing how much he counted on that.
"Anytime babe, except right now, because I have to go to my bull session." She said, with a laugh.
With a quick kiss she was off.
Kane
Closing the door behind her he leaned on it and sighed. Then he turned and tried to clear his head while he dressed in his ring gear.
Need to get my head together. She isn't like them. Jayla isn't going to walk away like they did. I have to stop worrying about losing her. Kane told himself, as he began to warm-up.
J.J.
Getting to the equipment room, she took a seat and opened her bag.
The session didn't last long and J.J. ended up at the back left corner from the ramp.
She was happy to see she'd get to finish the LOD/Demolition setup she'd started. It went well. The rest of the setups went quickly and before she knew it she had to go to ringside.
The first two matches went by fast and without any problems.
Then Kane's pyro went off. J.J. watched him come down the ramp, with his usual catlike grace.
She stepped back away from the ring as he prepared to set off the second set. Then she started shooting.
King/J.R.
"He's done it again. He's challenged two men at once. Someone needs to control this retard before he gets himself killed." King said.
"I don't blame him for making this challenge. After all they interfered in his match yesterday. He may not be making the best decisions match wise. But I have to think he's better off without the people he associated with in the past." J.R. said, as DX came down the ramp.
"If this is about yesterday, why didn't he challenge all of DX? They all interfered." King said snidely.
"Don't be ridiculous. That would be suicide." J.R. replied.
"Well, the Outlaws are up on the apron. It looks like they're ready to go." King said.
"If that's true, then why have the other DX members surrounded the ring?" J.R. asked.
"Two reasons. One reason is to support their teammates. Two they want to be sure that deep fried freak doesn't run away when he realizes his mistake." King replied.
"I doubt that highly in both cases. The Outlaws don't need them at ringside, and Kane has never run from anyone." J.R. said.
"He ran from the Undertaker after their inferno match." King said sarcastically.
"You idiot, the man was on fire. Of course he ran to the back." J.R. countered with derision.
"Well, the bell has finally rung to start this match. But all of DX is still at ringside." J.R. said sounding displeased.
"Whatever J.R, Just watch the match." King said.
"Well, it looks like Kane is taking the offensive quickly here. He's got Road Dogg reeling already." J.R. said.
"It won't last." King said, sounding confident in his prediction.
"Typical of DX, Billy has distracted the ref, Nick Patrick. Hunter and Chyna are getting involved from the outside. Oh, and there's the low blow Chyna is so well known for." J.R. said.
"Just good tag team wrestling." King said.
"It's called cheating King." J.R. said.
"It's not cheating unless you get caught." King countered.
"Finally Patrick is back in position, but the damage may have been done. I don't think even Kane can overcome these odds." J.R. said.
"The damage is done. Kane isn't looking very good right now." King said happily.
"Well he's taking control of the match now." J.R. said.
The match continued with the DX members taking cheap shots from the outside whenever possible. But Kane was still managing to hold his own.
"It looks like Hunter is getting a little frustrated that the Outlaws haven't managed to finish off the big man even with their help." J.R. said.
Kane/ J.J.
OH SHIT! J.J. thought, when she saw Hunter make a cutting motion across his throat.
The rest of DX quickly entered the ring. Hunter knocked the timekeeper down and took the ring bell.
Oh here it comes. Kane thought, as he saw them enter.
Taking a defensive stance, he waited until they were close then attacked.
With a horrendous clothesline X-Pac was down and not moving. The ref was signaling for the bell, not realizing it was in Hunter's hands.
Kane damn it roll out. Hunter is behind you. J.J. thought.
"LOOK OUT KANE!" J.J. yelled, unable to stop herself.
Even as she yelled, Hunter brought the bell down.
Shit! Kane thought, trying to turn he got the bell in the side of the head instead of the back.
The blow brought him down to one knee.
J.J. watched helplessly as Hunter bought the bell down a second time, this time into Kane's masked face.
KANE! She cried silently, as he collapsed.
With an evil laugh, Hunter tossed the bell aside.
"Good enough for now. We'll see him again real soon." Hunter told J.J., as he walked by.
Even before DX had cleared the ramp, Pete and the EMTs were going into the ring.
What does he mean? Are they intending to do this to him every time he's in a match? J.J. wondered, as she stood shocked.
J.J. fell in step with the gurney as they were wheeling it by her. Her hand automatically finding his and taking hold of it.
"Kane you're going to be fine." J.J. whispered.
Kane heard noise around him. He tried, but he couldn't focus. He couldn't make sense of it. Then he felt someone take his hand and he felt calmer.
"Where the hell do you think YOU are going?" Vince yelled, as soon as they got backstage. "Get back out there NOW!"
"No I'm going with him. If you don't like it fire me!" J.J. growled, and then she turned her attention back to Kane.
"Ma'am you'd better ride in the front." The EMT said, as he put Kane into the back.
J.J. immediately jumped in.
Please baby just be ok. J.J. thought, looking into the back as they pulled out.
Have to move. Kane thought groggily.
He fought, trying to sit up.
"Relax Kane." The EMT said.
Sirens? He thought. NO HOSPITAL!
Kane tried again to sit up. Reaching up, he clawed at the collar they'd put on him.
"NO, Kane lie still." The EMT said, trying to keep him from pulling off the brace.
SHIT! J.J. thought, as she squeezed into the back and put her hand on Kane's chest.
"Baby be still, I'm here. You're ok." J.J. said quietly.
Where? He thought, his mind still clouded and confused.
"Just relax love. I won't go anywhere." J.J. said. "I promise."
He calmed after a moment and lay still.
"Where's his mask?" She asked, as they pulled up to the ER.
"Right here, but he can't wear it now." The EMT said.
"I know, but I can put it over him until he gets inside." J.J. replied, placing it gingerly over his face.
"Ok, sounds good, anything to keep him calm." He said.
Stepping out of the ambulance, J.J. immediately took Kane's hand. As they were going through the trauma doors J.J. was stopped by a nurse.
"You can't come back here." She said. "Why don't you go out and help get his paperwork in order."
"I think I should go with him." J.J. said sounding concerned.
"That's just not possible." She replied.
Fuck! I promised him I'd be there. That I'd stay with him. J.J. thought, angry that he'd wake up and find her gone.
"Kane, I'll be back soon." She said, slowly releasing his hand.
He didn't move or react at all.
Good, J.J. thought. He's ok here.
"You should keep her close." She heard the EMT say. "She's the only thing that seems to keep him calm.
"He seems fine now." She said, as the EMT began his report.
J.J. looked over her shoulder, just as they brought him into Trauma three.
J.J. He thought, getting nervous with all the noise around him.
HOSPITAL! NO! J.J.! He thought, opening his eyes for the first time.
"Relax sir, you're in a hospital. Just be still and let us check you over." The nurse said.
Where are you J.J.! Said stay. He thought, looking around wildly.
Bringing his hands up he pushed away anyone he could reach. Then he tried to sit up.
"Call security and have them bring the leathers." The doctor shouted.
NO RESTRAINTS! He cried silently, trying to get up again.
"Security to trauma three stat!" J.J. heard.
OH no! That's where Kane is. J.J. thought fearfully.
Taking advantage of the confusion, J.J. slipped back into the trauma area.
"Wait please. That will only make it worse." She said when she saw security carrying restraints. "Just give me a minute."
Stepping through the door, she saw Kane fighting to get up, while several nurses tried to stop him.
"Miss you can't be here." Security said.
J.J. ignored them and walked right up to Kane.
"Baby, I'm sorry. I had to fill out some paperwork. I didn't know it would take so long." J.J. said, as she put one hand on his chest. "I'm so sorry I left you."
The using the other she touched his face.
"Love, it's really ok. Look at me. Better." J.J. said, trying to get him to focus on her hoping he'd calm down.
Kane stopped fighting and just stared at her.
"Now lay back and behave, or they're going to make me sit in the waiting area." J.J. said, putting a little pressure on his chest.
Paperwork? Waiting area? He thought confused.
"Come on love. They have other patients. Let them take a look, so we can get out of here." She added softly, as he lay back.
Out of here is good. He thought.
Looking around, she saw the assembled group standing there with their mouths agape.
"Kane, I think I'm in the way here. I'm just going to be up here." She said, moving to the top corner of the bed.
Once there, she gently stroked his hair and neck. She made sure to keep constant contact so he'd know she was there.
Her eyes never left his face, Meeting his gaze whenever he looked up.
Security went to the doorway, but kept a wary eye on the big man.
The medical staff began converging quickly, startling Kane.
"I'm here baby. I'm watching them very closely." J.J. whispered into his ear. "I'll beat them up if they hurt you."
Kane smiled slightly at her comment.
Just then they started asking him questions. With many of them speaking simultaneously.
"What happened?"
"Any loss of consciousness?"
"Do you feel dizzy?"
"Wait!" J.J. said loudly, cutting them off, when she saw Kane getting agitated. "Yes or no questions only. He doesn't have his amplifier."
"Mary, see if you can get one for him." The doctor said.
He doesn't want that. J.J. realized when he shook his head slightly and she saw that he was getting upset.
"It won't do much good. He usually won't talk in front of most people." J.J. said, with a shrug.
"Then maybe you can answer for him." The doctor said.
"Is that ok?" J.J. asked Kane.
He nodded.
"Were you there when he was hurt?" He began.
"Yes, I was right there." J.J. said.
"Got some great shots," She added, looking down at Kane and smiling.
I'd expect that. Kane thought, laughing a bit.
J.J. saw the doctor look at her funny.
"Alright what happened?" He asked, still looking confused about her comment.
"He was hit twice in the head with a ring bell, once in the head about here, and once in the front." She said, pointing out the approximate locations.
"He was in and out for a while. But he seems pretty good now." She added.
"Where does it hurt? Anywhere besides the head." The doctor asked Kane.
It doesn't really hurt. Just a small headache is all. Kane thought with a shrug.
"You didn't?" J.J. whispered in his ear.
Couldn't have, I was too out of it. Kane thought, shaking his head slightly.
"Then why did you shrug? Just point you pain in the ass." J.J. admonished him.
Pain in the ass? Oh she's going to pay for that one. Kane thought.
Kane smiled sarcastically and pointed to his head.
The crew began to poke and prod. They examined and x-rayed him from head to toe.
I don't want this. I'm fine just let me out of here. Kane thought, getting frustrated.
J.J. watched him closely. Whenever she saw him stiffen or look upset she'd talk to him quietly. She alternately teased and encouraged him throughout the whole process.
"They're almost done." J.J. told him, as they took the last shots.
"Can I speak with you outside?" The doctor asked.
"Not if it's about him." J.J. replied.
"I just had some questions concerning the extent of his handicaps." He said.
"His only handicap is the need for an amplifier, and extreme stubbornness." J.J. said, glancing back at Kane as she said it.
Stubborn am I. He thought, beginning to laugh.
"Ok, I just wanted to be sure he knew what was going on." He replied.
"Why don't you ask him? That's a yes or no question." J.J. said sounding irritated.
"Do you know what happened? What we were doing?" He asked Kane.
Nodding, Kane reached up and took her hand.
"Ok, we'll need to look at the x-rays. Then maybe take a PET scan or an MRI. But you seem pretty alert considering." He said.
"Yeah, considering he got his bell rung." J.J. laughed.
OH, that was really bad J.J. Kane thought, as he joined in the laughter.
"Was it really a bell?" He asked.
"Yeah, this big guy is a wrestler." J.J. said.
The doctor just shook his head and laughed as he left.
"I'll be back in a little while with some news." He said over his shoulder.
Once the doctor was gone, she moved down to stand beside him.
"Ok, how are you really? Do you remember what happened?" J.J. asked.
Kane motioned writing. So J.J. handed him her notebook.
Your fault
He wrote.
"My fault how do you figure that?" J.J. asked, handing the notebook back.
Well I guess I could have helped him. But he said he didn't want me to interfere. Has he changed his mind? J.J. thought.
Didn't remind me to kick ass and not piss you off
He wrote, trying not to laugh as he handed it to her.
"Why you… you are such a jerk." J.J. said. "If you weren't already half dead, I'd kill you myself."
Kane just laughed at her reaction.
"By the way, thank you for not giving them a hard time. I know you don't want to be here." She said seriously, leaning down to kiss his cheek.
J.J. sat on the edge of the bed and Kane sat up beside her.
"Kane." The doctor said, walking in. "It looks like you were lucky. The shot to the side of the head wasn't as severe as we thought. You only have a mild concussion, and the mask seems to have protected your face from that blow."
"So we're free to leave then." J.J. said.
"No, we'd like to keep him for observation. Just overnight to be sure he's ok." The doctor replied.
Forget it! Kane thought, shaking his head no.
"I don't think he'll go for that." J.J. said, with a laugh. "We're lucky he's still here now."
"He could have damage we didn't see." He said.
She can watch me. Kane thought, pointing to J.J.
"I don't know Kane; after all it was my fault." J.J. said, trying to look serious.
You witch. He thought, turning to give her a dirty look.
"I don't understand." The doctor said.
"Just a joke, I'll keep an eye on him. I've done it before." J.J. said.
"Ok, I'll get the release papers and a list of symptoms to watch him for." He said.
"NO problem, if he doesn't behave I get to bring him back though right." J.J. said.
Kane laughed and pulled her into a headlock.
"Oh, let me go or I'll finish what they started." J.J. said laughing.
Kane just pulled her tighter and started laughing.
"Ok, I'll be right back." He said sounding amused.
"He wants to know if he can wrestle tomorrow." J.J. asked, when the doctor came back.
"I'll leave that up to you Kane. But keep in mind if you decide to wrestle. You won't be at a hundred percent. If you get hit in the head again it could really do some damage." He said to Kane.
Kane nodded. Then he took the papers.
Once the doctor left Kane dressed, putting his ring gear back on.
"Have a seat and try to blend in. I'll go get a cab." J.J. said, once they were outside.
Yeah. I can blend all right. He thought with amusement, as he sat down on a wall outside the ER.
"All set." She said, sitting down beside him. "It'll be about twenty minutes."
Nodding, Kane wrapped his arm around her while they waited.
Why isn't she trying to talk me into taking tomorrow off? I know she thinks I should. Kane wondered, waiting for her to start.
Arguing with him when he can't answer won't do me any good. J.J. thought.
Once back at the hotel, J.J. brought Kane upstairs.
I'll just get him settled and then go get our stuff from the arena. J.J. thought.
When they got upstairs, J.J. saw their message light blinking.
While Kane was getting changed, J.J. listened to the message.
"Kane the message was from Pete. He has our gear. I'm just going to run up to his room and get it." J.J. said.
How did he get into our lockers? Kane wondered.