Carol and I made our way back to the hospital after I cleaned myself up and didn't look like I'd just poured my heart and soul out. My footsteps slowed as we neared John's room and I heard his voice drifting out the open door. When she realized that I wasn't beside her anymore, Carol paused and let me collect myself before taking my arm and guiding me into the room.
"And I told him that I—Serene," John said, a smile coming to his face.
I smiled back, though it was shaky, "Hey you," I said, moving slowly to his bed.
"Are you feeling better?" he asked, concerned.
I risked a glance at Stephanie, Matt and Jeff, who stood in the corner of the room. At Stephanie's slight nod, I looked back to John and smiled.
"Much better," I told him before leaning down and kissing him softly.
I spoke with him and his parents for a few minutes, finally being introduced to his father; before telling him I needed to speak with Matt and Jeff privately for a few minutes. The three of us headed out into the hallway and just a little away from the door so our voices wouldn't carry.
"I'm sorry," I said immediately, "That's all I can say really."
Jeff and Matt looked hurt, "Why didn't you come to us?" Jeff asked.
I shrugged, feeling like I was five years old; "I don't know. I don't know what was going on in my head at the time. Everything got to be too much I guess. I just needed to get out."
"Did it help?" Matt asked.
I stared at him, bemused.
"I mean getting away for a couple of days, out of the lifestyle. Did it help?"
Slowly, I shook my head.
"No."
"No?"
"No."
"Why not?"
"Because all I could think about was John. And you guys. And all my new girl friends. It hit me as the train pulled into Boston, I'd left part of myself here. A really big part."
"Oh," Matt said.
I nodded, "Besides, I realized something."
"What?" Jeff asked.
"Even if I tried to stay away, I'd never see you guys again," I said with a grin.
That got a smile from both men and they hugged me quickly before Jeff grinned and slung me over his shoulder; making me shriek as he carried me back into John's room.
"Jeffery Nero Hardy if you don't put me down right now—Oof!"
I flipped my hair back and looked to my left, where John was grinning at me.
"Hi," he said, trying not to laugh.
I crossed my arms and pouted, glaring at Jeff.
"That was not funny," I said.
Still grinning, Jeff leaned forward and kissed me soundly, making me gag when he pulled away. Everyone around us laughed and John threw his arm around my shoulders, pulling me back against his chest. Mindful of his parents watching, I curled into his side, feeling like a teenager; and wrapped an arm around his waist. Carol smiled at me, though John Sr. or; Fabo, as he said to call him; didn't look too happy. I'd even say he was a little nervous.