Riley & Madeline Christmas Aftermath
The aftermath starts a week before New Years. Riley and Madeline are in Texas, and the Christmas story take place one year after "Lost in Paris" before the girls move to St. Mary.
Paul picked Madeline up. "Come on, let's head home."
Riley said "Bye, Miss Clavel- see you after New Year,"
Miss Clavel called "Bye girls! Travel safely!" as she closed the door. She added "Now, little girls, let us go and brush our teeth."
All eleven girls blowing out the candles.
Nicole blew out two candles "Merry Christmas Madame Marie!"
They turned off the lights, and closed the door.
And that's all there is, there isn't anymore.
An angel ornament at the top of the Christmas tree looks very much like Marie, implying that she could be an angel or spirit taking care of the Boarding School.
"Merry Christmas, Madam Marie," Madeline mumbled sleepily.
"Yes and a Happy New Year." Riley added dreamily, as both girls fell asleep on the ride home.
Paul asked "Amy, did you find out what was wrong with Madeline and Riley?"
Amy said disapprovingly "Just as I thought, Paul- Madeline and Riley both are coming down with the flu." She tutted. "They'll be in bed for a week."
"But mom, next week is New Year!" Alice pointed out.
"If the girls aren't better by then, we might have to keep celebrations low key until they're better," Replied Amy sternly.
Max suddenly thought of something and asked "Dad, you don't think Riley and Madeline saw our first Mom, do you?"
Paul replied "They could have, son."
"Madam Marie is French for...Mary, right?" Max pressed on.
Paul answered "Yes Maxwell, it is. Since Riley and Madeline are little, I don't think they know it was Marie their friend saw glowing."
He stared out of the window for a moment- and he thought, for one brief moment, he saw a familiar face smiling at him.
"...Mary?"
"Paul, our little girls are such great little helpers but the kitchen was a mess! Keep an eye on them, Paul, please." Mary requested to her husband.
Paul said "Will do, hon."
"Oh, and before I forget - here is the recipe for the porridge I made for eleven little girls this morning- Make sure Riley and Madeline eat some on Sunday morning, alright?" She asked as some gold paper settled itself onto her husband's lap, detailing the recipe for the mentioned porridge.
"Will do, Mary-goodbye," said Paul softly.
"Until the next time, my love." She answered- and faded away into the night, her spirit rejoining the stars once again.
Amy looked over and asked "Paul, what is this gold paper?"
Paul said "A recipe for Mary's porridge that she used to make for Alice and Max when they had a cold or the flu."
Amy said "Let's see..." her blue eyes darted down the recipe. "Oats, bananas, cinnamon, blueberries, and whipped cream...well, I can whip it up at home," she smiled at Paul.
...
As the plane landed in Texas ten hours later, Paul gently lifted up the twins in his arms, and they began whimpering. He said softly "Shh, I've got you, Riley and Madeline- shh..."
Amy said quietly "Come Maxwell and Alice." And she helped them grab their bags from the overhead compartment as Paul joined them with the still sleeping twins.
"Aw, Max- don't the twins look cute when they're sleeping?" Alice asked her brother.
"They sure do, Alice - almost like babies. But I've never seen dad holding both of them at the same time since they were little." and we took that family picture after the girls came home from the hospital" Max replied.
"I know, right? It's so-" Alice was cut off as a man around Paul's age came up to the group of six, followed by a blonde woman in a purple furry jacket and black scarf. "Uncle Billy, Aunt Heather- you came!" She exclaimed quietly, hoping not to waken her sisters.
"We couldn't find you at home- what happened?" Billy asked worriedly.
"Big Bro, please calm down," Paul replied calmly. "We headed to Paris to see what was going on, as the girls weren't wanting to come home- and, well, Riley and Madeline seem to have caught the flu from their friends at the old house."
"Well, shoot -New Years is next week." Billy said, frowning. "Will they well enough for the celebrations, do you think?"
"I'll have to make Riley and Madeline a doctor's appointment " on Monday' his sister in law answered.
Heather put a hand on both girls' foreheads, she said "Riley and Madeline do feel kind of warm, Amy- come on, let's get home and get you lot to bed- you must be exhausted from your flight."
"Yes, we are, Aunt Heather," yawned Max. Beside him, Alice was fighting to keep her eyes open from the Plane ride"
"Billy, when did you two come to the house?" Paul asked.
"Around 4 ' PM today." Billy answered. "Duncan said you weren't home, so we grew worried. Then Rachel came and said that you guys were in Paris, so we decided to see if you were coming back home."
"I see," Replied Paul. He found his grip was slipping on the girls, and he moved to the left, so that his right arm was facing his brother. "Here- could you hold Riley please? I can't hold on to both of them for Long."
"Why, sure thing little brother," Billy said, gently extracting his sleepy black haired niece from his brother's arm.
"Whew- thank you, Billy," sighed Paul in relief.
"You're welcome, Paul." Billy replied, smiling.
"Hmm... Lord Cucuface, why are you holding me? Put me down now..." Riley mumbled in her sleep. Billy frowned in worry and confusion.
"Let's just get to the truck- quickly," said Paul. "It sounds like Riley's starting to get delirious from fever."
"Good plan," Said Heather. "We have some blankets, Paul. That should help for the girls- and for Max and Alice as well." She took some bags from Amy, who smiled gratefully at the helpful gesture. "Come on- we better hurry."
The cavalcade left the airport building and shivered as they walked across the tarmac of the car park. Stars twinkled above treacherous ice patches. Thankfully, the cold air woke Alice and Max long enough to be able to walk across the car park to the truck cautiously. Amy, and Heather were ahead of the group with the bags- behind them were their husbands with the twins, and Alice and Max trailed along at the back, trying to keep up without slipping on the ice.
"Almost there!" Heather called.
"Yeah- we parked as near to the building as we could." Billy added.
"Alice, Max, could you two keep up, please? I don't want you to get lost." Paul said, still holding Madeline.
Max and Alice started to speed up a bit- until Max lost his footing on a patch of ice and fell onto the ground.
"Max! Are you alright!?" His sister asked, going back to help him to his feet.
"I'm fine," Grunted Max. "But Alice, I don't want you getting lost."
"It's fine, Max- I've got my cell phone." Alice reminded him, carefully helping him to his feet. "You're not hurt, are you?"
Max said "No- but I can't say the same about my new cell phone..." He fished it out of his pocket- and it had been smashed to pieces.
Alice gasped, and said "Uh oh- Mom and Dad won't be happy about this. This phone was supposed to be opened on New Years' after dad gives us money before MIDNIGHT"
"Let's just keep up with the others." Max suggested, and with that, the two siblings set off into the darkness, hoping to spot four familiar figures as they kept going, both keeping their eyes peeled for ice.
"Max, Alice- please keep up!" Paul called to his two elder children. "Thankfully Madeline hadn't awoken yet," he added to himself as they got to the truck.
"Okay, Billy," He began, as he sat in the back with Madeline in his arms. "hand Riley to me, please."
Billy handed the sleeping Riley to him. "Papa you are back..." She mumbled sleepily, prompting Amy to place a hand on her stepdaughter's forehead.
Amy said "Riley does feel a little warmer than normal."
Madeline mumbled "Hmm... tiger .. Stop scaring our friends- shoo, shoo! Go away!"
"Mom, will Riley and Madeline be alright?" Alice asked as Amy handed one of the blankets to Alice and Max.
Amy said "Yes dears, they will be fine. Okay?"
Max replied "Okay Mom"
As Billy started the truck, Heather said "Billy, there's practically no one on the street at this time of night."
"I know, sweetheart," Billy answered "At least the truck will make it back to the Fogg house- I hope."
But about ten minutes after he said this, the truck suddenly ground to a halt. "Smoke and oil!" Billy huffed in frustration. "I hope the engine's not busted." As he pulled to the side.
"Calm down, honey," said Heather. "We'll get out and have a look. You all stay here and keep warm," She added to Paul, Amy, Alice and Max, before she and Billy wrapped up warm and got out of the truck to inspect the damage.
Paul said "Amy, could you hold Riley and Madeline, please? I am going to help Billy and get Heather back inside the truck," as he slipped into his heavy coat. "I will be back, Amy."
Paul got out of the truck and trudged through the snow to the front of the truck, where Heather and Billy were inspecting the engine. He said "Heather, you can go back into the truck. Billy when was the last time you had the oil changed and engine checked?"
"Why, I had them checked before we left." Billy said. "I don't wanna risk damaging the truck and getting anyone hurt through poor maintenance."
"Okay- can you think of any other reasons why it might"-
Heather, meanwhile, had realized what the problem was.
"Billy, dear, do we have fuel antifreeze? The fuel line's frozen."
Billy said "In the truck, dear," and Heather went round to fetch it. She found it tucked away, and she pulled it out from the back with a triumphant smile.
Heather called "Found it, Paul!" She went back round to the front of the truck, and handed it to her brother in law, who in turn passed it onto Billy.
"Billy, put it in alright? And you tell me when to start the truck!" Paul told his twin, and he headed into the driver's seat of the truck, and placed his hands on the wheel, waiting impatiently. Hoping Riley and Madeline would stay asleep.
Billy poured some antifreeze in, and, after a few moments, said "Paul start the truck now!" as he popped the hood down.
Paul started the truck again- and the engine roared into life. He leaned out of the window and said "It started!"
Billy sighed with relief at those two words. He said "Thanks Paul- after all these years, we still make a good team," he smiled warmly at his brother.
Paul said "I know, big bro- but we better head home before the truck stops again- or else we'll never get home."
"Agreed," said Billy- as he and Heather re-embarked the truck, and the cavalcade set off again.
Time passed by, and soon, Alice and Max dozed off. Madeline and Riley were still fast asleep after the drama on the roadside, and Heather was nodding off as well, leaving Amy, Paul and Billy wide awake.
Paul said "Billy...I just never thought Paris would be under a snow storm."
"I know, Paul," Agreed Billy. He caught sight of the sleeping twins in the rear view mirror and suddenly remembered something he had been meaning to ask his brother. "Speaking of winter, do Riley and Madeline know that their birthday was a few weeks before Christmas?"
"No, I don't think they know yet." Paul answered his brother.
"Guys, can we talk about this at home?" Amy implored. She watched as they passed a familiar mansion gleaming in the distance and she sat up. "Billy you passed the house," she told him.
"Sorry Amy," said Billy sheepishly as he made a U turn back.
As Billy pulled into the Fogg driveway of their enormous and magnificent mansion at last, Paul asked "Billy, how fast were you going?"
Billy said "Just 40 miles per hour- why?" as he carried Alice in his arms. Duncan, the family butler, greeted the family at the door.
Duncan said "Good evening, Mr and Mrs Fogg- how was the trip?" As he watched everyone come inside the mansion.
"We'll tell you all- after we put Riley and Madeline to bed." Paul replied.
As Madeline started moving around in Amy's arms, the ex-nurse said "Great Madeline is starting to awaken."
Madeline opened her eyes, and looked around the room blearily. "Huh? Riley, wake up! Please..." she said cautiously to her twin.
Riley asked "Madeline, what? Whose arms... um, Madeline who are these people?"
Madeline said "Beats me-but we better get head home before Miss Clavel starts to get worried."
"Um, Madeline, one problem- Lord Cucuface isn't putting me down." Riley told her twin.
"Some twin you are!" Huffed Madeline. "Riley, watch me!" as she wiggled out of Amy's arms and to the floor. "Now you try it, Riley- use your feet to wiggle."
Maxwell closed the door after his aunt, and asked "Why don't Riley and Madeline understand they are back at home in Texas?"
"They're delirious." Amy replied. "Their fever's making them think they're in Paris, not here."
Paul said "Maxwell, don't move from that door until the girls are in bed, alright?"
"Wasn't planning on it, Dad," Replied Maxwell. "Besides, it's too cold for Riley and Madeline to be out!"
Riley said "Um, Madeline we may have another way out..."
"Why do you say that, sis?" Madeline asked curiously.
"Just look at the door!" Riley pointed out.
Madeline blinked her eyes in confusion. "Well, whoever this boy is, I have an idea! Yummy I know Lord Cucuface will leave cookies out! Oh boy, if you'll kindly step aside, you can have some of these cookies."
Maxwell, remembering a previous incident when Alice had a fever, decided to play along. He said "Thanks, Madeline- but I'll tell you what. You two stay overnight, and I will take you two back home in the morning because the snow had picked up again. Is it a deal?"
"Okay, it's a deal- but no cookies for you!" Riley decided. "Shall we, Madeline?" They both picked up some Christmas cards on the coffee table, unaware of what they actually were at this point.
Madeline bit into a Christmas card from their cousin Andre, and immediately exclaimed "Yuck! This isn't a real cookie at all- it is card! No wonder Lord Cucuface have gift under the tree."
Riley said "We can fix that- just wait until Lord Cucuface is sleeping, and then we will get to work!"
Madeline said "I like your plan, Riley- but um, who are these people looking at us?"
"Must be grown up friends we don't see that much," Shrugged Riley.
Madeline said "Could be –let's close our eyes for a while,"
"Okay- but just for a minute," Agreed Riley, and the twins shut their eyes.
Amy said "Close call! Let's get Riley and Madeline to bed before they awake once more."
"Yes, Amy- but what's up with Riley and Madeline, thankful the card isn't a bust " Paul wondered.
"No clue," Replied Amy, as both she and Paul headed up the staircase with both girls. Amy held onto Riley, and Paul cradled Madeline.
"With Alice, she only had a slight fever-but the twins? I wonder what both Riley and Madeline will be up to during the night." Paul mused.
As they reached Riley and Madeline's room, Amy said "Paul, I need to change the girls- you need to leave."
"Right- I will be downstairs if you need me, dear," Paul told her. He handed her Madeline, and kissed his wife on the cheek.
Amy said "Thanks Paul."
Billy came out from Alice's room and said "Well, Alice is out like a light. What was going on downstairs anyway?" as both brothers headed down the steps.
"Nothing much- but Billy would you take the couch tonight, please? Just so Riley and Madeline won't wander out." Paul requested.
"Paul, when have I let you down? they aren't getting past me, I promise. I will keep redirecting them to bed like I did with Alice. How hard can it be with twins?"
Paul cleared his throat, and asked "Billy?"
"I meant twin girls." Billy corrected himself sheepishly.
...
As Friday night turned into Saturday morning, Alice awoke, and said "Mmm...we made it home already?" as she looked out her window. It was still snowing outside. "But at least we are warm and cosy inside the house." as she left the room and walked past Riley and Madeline's room she saw it was empty. "Huh- they aren't in bed... or in the bathroom. Where could they have run off to?"
Alice walked downstairs...and saw that everything was wrapped up in red and green wrapping paper- even the sofa! "Why is everything wrapped up?" She asked- just as the twins emerged from behind the Christmas tree- both holding tape and wrapping paper.
"Huh- who is this girl?" Madeline asked her twin.
"Must be another friend that stayed overnight too- let's wrap her!" Riley exclaimed, much to Alice's alarm.
Alice said "Riley, Madeline please no more wrapping stuff up- it's me your older sister Alice!" but the girls ignored her, and started to wrap her up in wrapping paper and sticky tape, causing Alice to yelp- awakening Billy from the couch. He sat upright, ripping straight through the wrapping paper on the couch.
Billy said "Alice what is- holy cow!" He exclaimed in shock on seeing his eldest niece and his brother's living room in wrapping paper.
"Uncle Billy, help me!" Alice exclaimed.
"Do you like the present, Lord Cucuface?" Riley asked innocently.
Madeline said "Good - come Riley, let's go fine more stuff to wrapper ."
Amy suddenly came downstairs and said "There you two girls are - back to bed with you...Billy, what happened?"
"I don't know, Amy- I just woke up and found Alice and the whole living room in wrapping paper." Billy explained.
"Right- we need to confiscate the wrapping paper. I wonder if Paul will agree to put it in the vault." a Little early Amy muttered. "Alice, sweetie, are you alright?"
"I'm fine, Mom." Alice replied. "So long as"-
A familiar laugh came from the top of the stairs, and Alice sighed. "Too late," she said.
"What happened to you, Alice?" Max asked, giggling. "You look festive!"
"Santa's Little Helpers decided to do a little early morning work," Replied Alice dryly, gesturing to the twins with her head, as she couldn't move her arms.
Madeline looked out of the window, and said "Boy, the snowstorm stopped- it is time to head to Miss Clavel's school now!"
Max said "No, sorry- it's time for bed. Come on."
Paul came downstairs to see what was going on- and he said "Whoa, baby, what happened? Isn't Christmas over Alice? how did you get wrapped up, sweetie?" as he pulled the wrapping paper off of Alice.
"Two Santa's Little Helpers decided to do a little early morning work," Alice repeated "Dad look around the room and under the tree!"
Paul looked- the living room was covered in wrapping paper and tape. Paul sighed "I see that I need the wrapping paper away where Riley and Madeline can't get to it again." He picked up a small wrapped object- and recognized it at once. "Hey, there is my cell phone!" He exclaimed, as he unwrapped it- and as he retrieved it, his wallet fell out of the package as well. "My wallet! How did the girls get both my wallet and cell phone? I was thankful my cell phone was off"
Max said "Beats me, Dad- but Riley and Madeline are sound asleep in their bed. Oh, and even your office is wrapped up, too."
Amy lost patience at this point, and said "That is it! Starting Monday, I am calling Dr. Wilma and see if I can bring both twins in!"
"Amy, why wait until Monday- there must be someone who makes house calls." Heather suggested.
"True but Dr. Wilma knows the family. She had last seen Riley and Madeline when they were both one and two years old. In fact, it was Dr. Wayne that referred us to Dr. Wilma."
Just then, Leicester came into the living room and asked "Has anyone seen the pots and pans from the kitchen? They are all gone!"
Paul pointed to under the tree, and said "Try under the tree, Leicester. The girls are a bit loopy from delirium and are holding a wrapping siege against the house and its contents."
"And occupants!" Alice added.
"They could be testing boundaries, Mr Fogg -hey my watch!" He exclaimed, as his hand closed round air in his back pocket. "They must have snuck into each room while we were sleeping."
"Don't worry Duncan," Leicester assured. "I'll help you find your watch."
"Thank you, Leicester. And I'll help you get the pots and pans back in the kitchen." Duncan replied gratefully.
"Thank you, my friend!" Leicester replied. He didn't like the idea of handling all the missing kitchenware by himself- and he was aware that Duncan's pocket watch held great sentimental value to the butler of the household.
Billy asked "Um, Duncan, is this your pocket watch in this stocking?" And he held it out in the palm of his hand.
"Yep, testing the boundaries, alright." Duncan confirmed, as he gratefully took his watch back from Billy with a soft 'thank you.' "I was thinking- until their flu passes, we should just make sure valued objects are somewhere we can reach, but Riley and Madeline can't."
"Ms. Fogg, it seems like we found your slipper- already a bit snowy," Said Emma.
Amy said "Thought so."
"Hey, my make-up kit! How did it get all wrapped up again?" Alice asked indignantly.
"Well, I guess it won't hurt to see if one of the other doctors can make a house call." Amy conceded. "Alright, Heather-what is the other doctor's number?" She asked, getting out her mobile.
"Here's a card," Replied Heather, retrieving her wallet from her bag- then she fished out a small card from her wallet and handing it to her sister in law.
Amy said "Dr. Michel?"
"How can I help you, Miss?" Asked the doctor.
"Yes, would you make a house visit for twin girls?" Amy inquired.
Dr. Michel said "I do make house visits- but I don't take twin girls- sorry Miss. Good bye." And Amy hung up with an exasperated sigh.
Amy said "Next card, Heather, please."
Heather fished out a second card, and said "Here is Dr. Carol's number- she should be able to help."
As Amy punched the number in, she said "Let's hope."
Dr. Carol immediately answered "Hello?"
Amy said "Yes, hello, I'm Amy Fogg, and I am calling for my twin daughters."
"What are their names and what is wrong?" Dr. Carol asked briskly.
"Their names are Ronnie and Madeline Fogg, and they have both come down with the flu, and are suffering from delirium." And she explained about the situation.
"Well, this sounds serious," Said Dr. Carol. "I shall be with you presently, Ms. Fogg. Where is your address?"
Amy gave Dr. Carol the address, and Dr. Carol said "I will be right over- goodbye."
Amy said "Dr. Carol sounds nice, Paul-we should start thinking about a 2nd doctor for the holidays or the weekend."
"True," Agreed Paul.
Leicester said "Breakfast is at seven."
Madeline said urgently "Riley, wake up now!"
Riley stirred, awoke and asked "Madeline, what's the matter?"
"Lord Cucuface needs more presents and I found two women that we missed!" Madeline hissed.
Riley said "Let's go- I brought wrapping paper and tape up here last night. You can't trust Lord Cucuface at this time of the year."
"The coast is clear- let's go!" Madeline informed her twin.
"Okay Madeline- which room?" Riley asked.
"Left," Madeline answered as the two pushed open the door "Huh, she is gone! But oh more thing -Riley, help me up please"
"Coming, Madeline," Riley replied as she left the wrapping paper and tape on the bed. "Okay Maddie, grab the stuff!"
Madeline said "Riley, hold steady- got it! It looks shiny- now let's go!"
Once outside again, Riley said "Right side now. Come Madeline!"
Madeline pushed open the door "Aw, Riley look! Lip stuff! And lots of more shiny stuff."
Riley exclaimed "Let's get them!"
Madeline said "Yummy cookies...I hope they taste better than last night's cookies!"
As Dr. Carol rang the doorbell, Duncan answered, and said. "Please come in Dr. Carol. Boy, the wind is picking up!"
"I know." Dr. Carol agreed, and she stepped in and made her way over to Paul and Amy. "So where are the twins Ronny and Madeline?" She asked.
Amy said "Upstairs- but both girls were born premature, so I'm extremely concerned for their health."
"Anything else?" Questioned Dr. Carol.
"Well Ronny heart is fine. But Madeline is still kind of wheezing." Paul answered, remembering what happened back in Paris following the parents' arrival.
"I will make a note of that to check," Promised Dr. Carol- just as Sophie and Rachel came into the living room, looking more bemused than the family had ever seen them.
"Ms. Fogg, have you seen my lip stick? It isn't in my room anymore." Sophie asked her employer curiously.
"And so is my bottle of perfume. I had it on my dresser last, but when I went to apply some, it was missing," Added Rachel.
"It seems like I got here in time," Dr. Carol said, as she looked around the living room, and saw everything wrapped up in wrapping paper. She was a trifle amused at the sight, but she kept it to herself for the sake of her patients and their family.
"I will stay with Riley and Madeline." Amy decided, but Paul intervened.
He said "No-you take the lipstick and the perfume downstairs, and I'll get the twin's wrapping paper out of their reach. I don't want Riley and Madeline to wrap up any more stuff."
"Thanks dear!" Amy sighed as she headed downstairs. "We found lipstick and a bottle of perfume wrapped up."
"We know- Duncan was filling us in," Explained Rachel.
Amy said "Oh alright."
Upstairs, Dr. Carol asked "Which twin first, Mr Fogg?"
"You can check Ronny first. She shouldn't give you much trouble," Paul decided.
Dr Carol said "Ronny, awaken please."
"Miss Clavel, why are you playing doctor?" Asked Riley blearily.
"Open up, Ronny – I need to check your temperature, please." Dr. Carol requested.
Riley said "Okay." as she opened her mouth, Dr. Carol placed a thermometer inside it, and waited until it beeped 102 degrees Fahrenheit. "It is a little high- high enough to trigger hallucinations. Tell me, Mr. Paul, has she been hallucinating anything at all?"
"If you count wrapped presents trying to leave and thinking she and her twin are back in Paris, then yes." Paul replied.
Dr Carol nodded in affirmation, and checked Riley's eyes, nose and heart. "Nothing too serious- it's just the flu. Riley's heart sounds fine, and there's no mucus in the throat. But the fever should go down in a few days. Okay, it's Madeline's turn. Could one of you awaken her carefully, please?"
Paul said gently, "Madeline, sweetheart can you awaken please?"
Madeline opened her eyes blearily, and mumbled deliriously "Lord Cucuface, why is Miss Clavel playing dress up-and your baby is crying in the next room."
Despite the strange statement, Paul said "Okay, I will get it- thank you, Madeline."
Dr. Carol then placed her stethoscope on the little redhead's chest and began listening to Madeline heartbeat. She frowned. "Hm, I hear a wheezing. She isn't coughing the mucus up, either." She gave Paul a serious look. "Mr. Fogg- has Madeline been on a breath machine when she was younger?"
"No, why? What's wrong, Dr. Carol?" Asked Paul worriedly.
"Flu in premature kids can lead to a slower recovery than a healthy child, like your older kids downstairs- but I would like the girls to rest and take this medicine every four hours as needed for fever, cough or hallucinations. But in the meantime, both girls should recover just fine; just some fatigue and loss of appetite for a while but nothing to worry about, alright?"
Paul said "Thanks Dr. Carol, but you should explain this to the staff and my wife downstairs. And does this porridge work? It's something that my first wife Mary made for Alice and Max when they had the flu" He showed her the recipe for the porridge.
Dr. Carol examined it, and shook her head. She said sternly "I won't recommend this for twin girls, as it will only cause a lot more trouble- next time, I would just recommend they eat soft foods right now."
Suddenly, Riley exclaimed feverishly "Papa, papa, papa!"
"Riley, I am right here sweetheart," Paul reassured his daughter.
Riley said "Papa, look- Mommy is beside Madeline's bed checking on her!"
"Yes, Riley Mommy is just seeing Madeline for a bit." Paul replied, shooting Dr. Carol an apologetic glance for the awkward situation.
Fortunately, Dr. Carol took no notice of Riley's delirium-induced reaction, and said "You go on to breakfast, Mr. Fogg- I need to do a few more tests on Ronny and Madeline, if that is okay."
Paul said "Sure; I will be downstairs if you need anything. The same goes for my wife and our staff." And with that, he left Dr. Carol to make notes in her book and went downstairs to rejoin Amy.
….
"Paul how are the girls?" Amy asked anxiously, pulling her cardigan around her frame.
"You were right, Amy- it is the flu that Riley and Madeline have." Paul replied.
Amy said, "I will go and see what we need to do for the girls," as she washed her plate at the sink "Thank you for the breakfast Leicester. But this week is yours and the staff's week off. Paul and I will get the housework done. Right, Paul?"
Paul replied, "Yes, Amy we do."
Duncan said, "We won't hear of such nonsense! besides someone will have to look after Alice and Maxwell, and keep up with the housework, in addition to two very sick little girls."
"Duncan is right, Ms. Fogg," Replied Rachel.
Amy said, "Thanks Rachel,"
Rachel said, "Anytime,"
Emma added, "Rachel has a point, Ms. Fogg- besides, it is almost New Year, so we'd be just as well staying here until the girls' are better; there's no way we're leaving!"
"Ms. Fogg, Dr. Carol is looking for you to talk with her," Sophie reported.
Amy said "Of course. Thank you, Sophie. I will be right back down," Amy told her husband.
"Dad, what's up with Riley and Madeline anyway?" Asked Alice, as Amy ascended the stairs to chat with the doctor.
Maxwell said "Yeah, Dad."
"It's just the flu; nothing to worry about," Paul reassured his elder children. Turning to their chef, he added "Leicester, do we have any soft foods?"
Leicester replied, "Let's see," and he went to check his supplies. After five minutes, he informed, "We have: soup, Jello, and two little Cans of 7 UP. Why do you ask, sir?"
Paul said "Was just checking"
….
"Dr. Carol what did you need – what's with all this testing? It looks like a lab in Here!" Amy remarked. Being an ex-nurse, she was used to seeing labs at university and in the hospital, but it was still odd that her stepdaughters' room had just become one in the five or so minutes since Paul was here.
Dr. Carol said "I know, Ms. Fogg, and I apologize; but I need to test Ronny and Madeline over to rule out anything that may had been overlooked during their premature birth. Now, I was asking your husband earlier; had Madeline been on a breath machine when she was younger?"
"I don't know- you see Riley and Madeline were both taken from us at three years old by that rotten no good Kathy Andrews, and well, long story short, we just got both girls back with us in Spring. Why do you ask?"
"This spring? Hmm…" Dr. Carol mused. "Tell me about their premature birth- had they been to a heart doctor in the past, Ms. Fogg?"
"Well, I was a nurse at the hospital before I quit," Amy began. "I was helping Paul with the twins' post-natal care and Riley was okay; she had a strong set of lungs. She still does- but Madeline she had, believe it or not, pull through her first heart attack. She hadn't had anymore since, thankfully- why did you want to know, Dr. Carol?"
"I was just checking some things to put all circumstances of their flu into context. When the Girls recover, I would like them both and your older kids to be checked by this heart doctor named Ron Carter just to be on the safe side. I saw 10-year-old twins pass away from breathing problems at the Hospital on Christmas day last year."
Amy said "Dr. Carol, I been a nurse myself- but to turn my daughters' room into a lab what kind of testing do you want from Riley and Madeline anyway? Please tell me what you're testing them for."
As Dr. Carol pressed the needle into Madeline's arm, the redhead felt a poke. "Hmm… LaCroque, you are back! Ah, you replaced the scissors with whatever this long needle is! Riley wake up help me please!"
Riley awoke and said, "Um Madeline we have to leave now?!" On seeing Dr. Carol with the syringe.
Madeline burrowed under her covers "Whoa Riley; why did Lord Cucuface let LaCroque inside?" She asked fearfully.
"No clue, Madeline- let us get back to Miss Clavel now before we give her gray hair; whatever that means."
"Let's go then!" said Madeline urgently.
Dr. Carol said "Ronny, Madeline please! I am not going to hurt you two, alright? Now, can you stay still for five minutes, please?"
Riley exclaimed, "No way! I am not letting you cut anymore of Madeline's hair off! Come, Maddie let's go home"
Madeline said, "Thanks for the help, Riley."
"Anytime, sis," Replied Riley.
Madeline said "Um, Riley…. our escape route is blocked off."
Riley said "Come, Madeline- I saw another door we can go through and get home before Miss Clavel starts worrying!"
Dr. Carol said "Ronny Madeline, please stop this running." Then she had an idea. "You two like cookies hmm?"
Madeline said "Not from you LaCroque! Bye- you belong in jail!"
Maxwell arrived and cut them off as well, and said "Sorry girls, this door is off limits."
"But, boy! Miss Clavel may be looking for us!" Protested Riley.
Maxwell said "Riley, Miss Clavel is alright with you and Madeline staying until the storm passes. Now, please go on back to bed,"
"Fine, we will," huffed Madeline. "But LaCroque is to stay away from me with that pointy thing I saw in her hand earlier!"
Paul came up and said "Riley, Madeline- come, I have a new book for you.'
Dr. Carol said "Nice call, Mr. Fogg!"
"Nice going Paul," added Amy.
Riley shock her head to clear it a little, "Papa?"
Paul said "Yes, Riley?"
Riley said "Papa, why am I wet?" She ran a hand through her fringe, now damp Hair with sweat.
Dr. Carol felt Riley's head, "It seems like her fever is breaking quick. But she should still rest in bed for a while, anyway. Just so she gets her strength back."
At this recommendation, Amy turned to the twins and said, "Back to bed you two, and try to get some sleep, okay?"
"But, mom, I feel better now!" Riley protested.
"You better do as your mom says, dumpling," Said Paul sympathetically. "You might have broken your fever now, but it doesn't mean you're automatically better yet."
Riley looked over at Madeline, who hadn't a drop of sweat on her brow, and her eyes were still burning with delirium.
"Why hasn't Maddie recovered yet?" She asked. "I thought she and I would get well again at the same time."
Dr. Carol cleared her throat. "Well, it's a bit more complex than that, sweetie. Due to problems that she suffered at birth, illnesses she contracts now might be a bit harder to bounce back from than children without those problems."
Riley said "Right, Madeline was running a bit more than I was at the old house in Paris. I wanted to leave and come home to you, but Madeline talked me out of it and Madam Marie had vanished into thin air, because we couldn't fine her anymore. And Dad, I am hungry," She added.
"Tell you what, Riley- go back to bed and I will bring breakfast up to you, hmm?" Asked Paul.
"Um, okay- sounds like a deal to me." Riley agreed.
Amy said, "It should work as long as Riley doesn't make a mess,"
"Madeline, come along please- I need you and Riley to rest in bed for me, alright?" Asked Dr. Carol gently.
"No, no, LaCroque- stay away from me! Just stay away from me!" Madeline screamed, her voice getting raspier with each scream.
Riley said, "It's alright, Madeline- look who Lord Cucuface faced for us!"
"No Riley," Madeline disagreed. "Mommy and Daddy are outside fighting- look." as she stood on a chair. "Look Riley,"
Billy had come up to investigate the prolonged absence of his brother and sister in law, and said "Dr. Carol, what is going on? Madeline is completely out of it- and Paul, Amy never fight with kids in the room"
Paul said, "Bill Is right Dr. Carol- I am getting very concerned for Madeline's health. I mean beside her mood she sometimes gets"
Amy led Riley and Madeline back to bed, when Riley asked "Mom, can me and Madeline stay up on New Year's Eve, please, please?"
Amy said, "We'll see Riley but you two need to get better first, alright?"
"Alright, Mom," Riley conceded as the doctor checked Riley's temple.
"Hmm, Riley has a low-grade fever now, but it should go down soon." She then listened to Riley's heartbeat "No signs of wheezing, but the cough will last a day or two." She repeated the examinations on Madeline, and as she did so, she shook her head gravely. "As for Madeline, I hate to say this- but to help her breathe better, she needs to be put on a medical ventilator. I have one in the car. I'll be right back."
With that, she strode out of the room past a shocked Amy, Paul and Billy.
Amy nearly collapsed at those words from Dr. Carol. Even in her former career as a nurse had she never heard such frightening words as those- aside from Madeline being kidnapped by Mary aka Madam LaCroque and her struggles as an infant.
Fortunately, Billy gently caught her arm and looked at his brother worriedly. "Paul?" He asked.
Paul shook his head to rid himself of his thoughts, and turned to his brother. "Yes?"
Billy said "You OK?"
Paul said "... I will be."
"But you're not." Billy concluded, putting his free hand on his brother's shoulder. "I'll take Amy back downstairs to the living room if you'd like to stay with the girls."
"Billy... I need to stay with them." Protested Amy- but Billy noted she'd gone very pale, and looked as though a slight shove could send her sprawling to the ground. Worried for her well being, he decided to risk defying her and invoking her anger to ensure she could get some rest.
"Amy, I know you do, but you're about to keel over. Please, let Heather and I tend to you downstairs. We'll let you get back to Maddie and Riley once you've regained your strength, OK?" He coaxed.
The ex-nurse nodded weakly, and shuffled alongside her brother-in-law without further protest.
This was more serious than he thought. He decided to see if he and Heather could talk to her once they got her sitting down and got something in her.….
Dr. Carol returned just as Billy helped Amy downstairs.
Meanwhile, Alice headed upstairs with Riley's breakfast on a tray. She said "Riley, here is your breakfast"- she suddenly paused as she saw Dr. Carol bending over Madeline, and she looked like she was securing Madeline to the bed. "Whoa baby- what is going on, Dr. Carol? What are you doing to my little sister?"
Dr. Carol replied, "Don't worry, Alice- I am just making Madeline better."
Alice said "Funny- I don't remember Madeline ever needing to be strapped down unless she tried to hurt herself- but really, what's with the medical ventilator to stop the heart. Hmm, I remember hearing about you, Dr. Carol- the parents of the twins you lost last year are suing you in court right?"
Dr. Carol said, briskly, "Man, nothing gets past you Miss 'Know-It- All' sister"
"Not when it comes to my sisters." Alice said defensively, and she glared at Dr. Carol before she marched off to give Riley her breakfast and fill Maxwell in on the news.
Alice arrived at her brother's room and knocked on the door.
"Hello, Alice," Maxwell said from within. "Come in."
"How did you know it was me?" Alice asked in astonishment, opening the door.
"Easy- you do the same knock as you always do," Replied Maxwell, smugly. "And it certainly doesn't sound like anyone else's knock."
Alice bit her lip. "Are you busy right now?"
"Well, I'm procrastinating doing my algebra homework again, so I'm busy not being busy."
"Mom hated that." Alice grimaced. "But please, this is serious, Maxwell."
"OK," Conceded Maxwell, with a small smile. "Well, what's wrong, sis?"
Alice took a deep breath. "It's Dr. Carol. I saw her tying Madeline down to the bedframe."
"Whoa, sounds serious," Muttered Max. "Either Madeline's in grave danger or the good doctor's doing something illegal." He folded his arms. "Did you say anything to her?"
Alice recounted their conversation, and Maxwell just nodded throughout. As soon as she finished, he looked as though he remembered something.
"Dr. Carol made the paper last year for a blunder concerning twins." He said. "She was fined, but never struck off the medical board for what happened."
Alice said "Why?"
"Well, doctors have pretty high connections, if you think about it." Maxwell replied, pulling a face. "They have good money and equally corrupt lawyers."
"You sound so cynical." Alice commented.
"Hey, just bringing up the facts," Maxwell reminded her sternly. "One other fact remains; if she hurts Maddie or Riley, I'll avenge them."
"Same here," Replied Alice, but she had no idea what her brother was planning.
Back downstairs, Amy had received her coffee, and was sipping it shakily as Heather and Bill remained sitting with her. Duncan had to return to his duties; but he kept on a watch of sorts.
"So, what did Dr. Carol say?"
"She said that Madeline would have to be put on a ventilator." Amy replied, taking an especially long sip of coffee, even though it was still hot. "It's worrying- especially since Maddie's immune system was more susceptible than Riley's, due to her being so small at birth."
"Will she be okay?" Asked Heather worriedly.
Amy took a deep breath. As much as she appreciated having medical knowledge on her side, it sometimes felt like a curse than a blessing.
"It's just that… I know that people in these situations can have a hard time recovering from bad bouts of flu. What if Madeline needs a ventilator for ages? Or what if she suddenly worsens and dies? The odds are stacked against her when it comes to illnesses like this."
Billy let out a mumbled tangle of indecipherable words. "Well, we're not going anywhere until we know she's okay." He said.
"Yes- that poor dear," Heather added, her eyes filling with tears.
"I'll just have to ensure she pulls through!" Amy added determinedly, realizing that she couldn't give up on Madeline. She never have, and Amy wasn't about to start now.
"We'll be with you, all the way." Billy added reassuringly, putting an arm around his wife's shoulders, who wiped her tears away with her jumper sleeve and nodded bravely.
Amy smiled gratefully. "Thank you."
…..
Meanwhile, Alice and Maxwell went downstairs, where they found Paul in a discussion with Rachel.
"Hey Dad, can we talk to you?" Alice asked, trying to remain calm and causal, but her heart was beating madly in her chest.
"Sure- what's wrong, sweetheart?" Paul asked. Rachel nodded and quietly walked away, in order to fulfill her duties and leave her employer to talk to his oldest daughter and his son.
"Well, it's about Dr. Carol- we don't trust her." Maxwell continued, seeing Alice hesitate, fidgeting with her fingers.
"Hm," Said Paul. "Why don't you trust her? Was there something she did that made you two uncomfortable?"
"Well I … I… I was bringing Riley her breakfast earlier today and I saw Dr. Carol… she looked like she was tying Madeline to the bed." Alice explained. "Plus, there was a court case about a medical mistake she caused which involved twins and I feel really wary." What if she tried to make Madeline the third twin?
"As do I," Agreed Max.
"Hm, I do think there's something not right about her," Paul murmured. "Could either of you show me her case?"
"I have it here," Maxwell handed him a newspaper clipping from his pocket. He saw Alice looking at him warily, "What? It was for homework, Al. We had to procure an article into a scandalous case."
"What for?"
Paul had whipped out his cell phone and was dialing the police before Maxwell could answer. "Hello, I require the police, please… yes, I have a Dr. Carol in my home. I have reason to believe that she is endangering her patient- my two little girls. Her oldest sister witnessed it." He nodded, then gave the police their address. "OK, thank you, officer." He hung up.
"Right, the police are on their way to arrest Dr. Carol for medical malpractice. Max, go and find Rachel- she'll stay with your mom while Alice and I wait for the police."
Alice said "Why me, Dad?"
Paul said "They'll question you, as the key witness to the crime."
….
The police arrived less than 45 minutes later and were knocking on the door.
"Oh, thank goodness!" Paul exclaimed, and hurried to answer the door. As he and Alice had to wait for the police, he sent Emma and Sophie upstairs to 'assist' Dr. Carol. Duncan and Leicester were on standby in case there was a scuffle, and the two maids needed aid. Rachel had been alerted and taken Amy, Billy and Heather to the kitchen- they didn't want the police arresting Amy too, as Paul had a feeling that Amy would do something regrettable if she was let near the doctor.
He answered the door to two cops in full uniform and standing in front of a police car, lights and siren muted. One cop was male, the other female.
"Hello, officer."
"Hello, Mr. Fogg," answered the male cop.
Female cop said "Can I talk to your oldest daughter please"
Paul said "Sure"
Female cop said "I am Sandy, now Alice please tell me what happend in your sister's room?"
Alice said "It's just like I told my dad earlier, I was bringing Riley her breakfast today and I saw Dr. Carol… she looked like she was tying Madeline to the bed." Alice explained. "Plus, there was a court case about a medical mistake she caused which involved twins last year."
Sandy said "You mean the 'Jessica and Jack' case from last year?"
Alice nodded her head.
At the hospital while Madeline is getting tested, Riley is off on her own for a bite.
Do you want to build a snowman?
Come on, let's go and play!
I never see you anymore
Come out the door
It's like you've gone away!
We used to be best buddies
And now we're not
I wish you would tell me why!
Do you want to build a snowman?
It doesn't have to be a snowman.
Elsa: "Go away, Anna."
Anna: "Okay, bye."
*this is Part of Madeline Dream she is Having"
As Madeline looked down, she almost touched Riley's hand, and Jessica pulled Madeline's hand away.
(Speech)
8-Year-Old Elsa: (gasps)
King: "The gloves will help. See? Conceal it."
8-Year-Old Elsa: "Don't feel it."
Both: "Don't let it show.'
In the Waiting room, Riley said "Any word on Maddie yet?"
Maxwell said "No Riley not yet"
Alice said "This test taking forever I mean come on mom, Riley's test was done a lot quicker!"
Amy said "I know Alice, but they have to see what drug Dr. Carlo used"
Riley thought "Little bit more?"
(knocks)
Do you want to build a snowman?
Or ride our bike around the halls?
I think some company is overdue,
I've started talking to the pictures on the walls!
(Hang in there, Joan.)
It gets a little lonely,
All these empty rooms,
Just watching the hours tick by...
(tick-tock tick-tock tick-tock tick-tock)
Madeline's Dream
12-Year-Old Elsa: I'm scared! It's getting stronger!
King: Getting upset only makes it worse. Calm down.
12-Year-Old Elsa: No! Don't touch me! Please, I don't want to hurt you.
Back in the Waiting room, Dr. Revelry said "Mr and Ms. Fogg, Madeline's test will be a few more hours, but I won't count on her being awake anytime soon. Only the two adults are allowed in the ICU room"
18-Year-Old Elsa: Do you have to go?
King: You'll be fine, Elsa.
As Madeline looked, the smell in the ICU, bed with both wire and tube hooked up to the little girl.
Dr. Ray said "We will soon know what the test says, but Dr. William we'll be in to talk to you soon"
Paul said "okay thanks Dr. Ray"
Amy said "What are we going to tell the family? I mean New Year's IS next week!"
Paul said "Anything can happen, Madeline is such a little fighter that I know, and she will pull it together I just know it"
(Instrumental break)
Dr. William said "Mr. and Ms. Fogg as of right now, we are doing everything we can to bring Madeline back. I am just waiting on the MRI and the Blood test to be back after New Year if Madeline don't flat line by then. My phone will be on if Madeline does awaken. Anything you need ask me or one of the other nurses"
Amy said "Dr. William what were you testing Madeline for?"
Dr. William said "Ms. Fogg the Blood test was a sample to see what kind of drug Dr. Carol was using. Riley's Blood test came back fast when there was nothing to worry about Riley's health. Madeline is fine, just a slight low fever but other than that she is going to make a full recovery from this Flu"
Paul said "Thanks Dr. William."
We we'll keep you updated.
As it was a day before New Year's Eve.
(knocks) "Elsa?"
Please, I know you're in there
People are asking where you've been
They say, "have courage" and I'm trying to
I'm right out here for you,
Just let me in.
We only have each other,
It's just you and me
What are we gonna do?
Do you want to build a snowman? (sighs)
Madeline whispered, weakly, "Mom? Mom?"
Amy said "Hmm… Oh, Madeline sweetheart I am right here." She replied reassuringly, taking her youngest daughter's hand in her own.
"Mom, where's everybody else? Where is Riley?" asked Madeline, feeling rather nervous when she couldn't see her twin, their two older siblings, their father, or the servants anywhere.
Amy said "Madeline, they don't allow too many people in a hospital room, honeybee. But you'll see everyone again soon."
….
Meanwhile, Maxwell asked his sister, "I didn't fall asleep in the back and drool all over you, did I?"
"You do drool!" Alice retorted.
"Shut up!" Snapped Maxwell, going red in the face with embarrassment that she'd said that out loud.
Paul entered behind them, and Riley ran past them and jumped onto Madeline's bed, pleased to see her beloved twin conscious.
"Madeline, my little girl. How are you? I love you. You okay?" Paul asked gently.
Amy said, in pure confusion. "Wait a minute. How did you get past the nurse's station? And more to the point, how did you get the kids past it?"
Paul shrugged. "It wasn't easy; but we had a little help from your friend, Anna." He frowned when he saw Riley on her sister's bed. "Riley you can hop off that bed right now." He said sternly.
"Fine, Dad," Sighed Riley, sliding off Madeline's bed.
It was in that little hospital room, green and white, that the clock on the wall finally struck midnight.
Paul said, "Happy New Year, Amy."
"Happy New Year, Paul." Amy replied. "Happy New Year, kids."
"Happy New Year, Mom! Happy New Year, Dad!" They chorused, as quietly as they could manage. Madeline, however, wanted to go home.
Madeline said pleadingly "Mom, home now please."
"Let's see what Dr. Williams says first, Maddie," Soothed Paul.
"But Dad; that won't be until morning!" Riley protested.
"Riley is right, Dad," Said Alice, "but, I have a question- how did Maddie pull through already? The doctor in the ER told us she won't be awake for a few days."
Maxwell said, "Someone must have helped Maddie come back to us."
"Until morning?" Whined Madeline. "No- I want food now please!"
"It seems like Madeline's appetite is coming back slowly," Observed Amy in relief.
"I will try to find Nurse Anna- I'll be right back," said Paul, and he left the room.
Madeline asked Amy, "Mom, how long have I been asleep for anyway?"
Amy said "A few days, Maddie, sweetheart. Why?" she asked, stroking Madeline's red hair.
Madeline said "A few days? Wow."
"But you feel alright now?" Asked Maxwell in concern.
"I feel a little tired, but alright." Madeline replied, managing a smile at her brother.
…..
Paul returned ten minutes later and said, "Well Anna just called Dr. William and yes you can have a small Jello with either 7-Up or water."
Madeline said "Water please. 7-Up is too yucky."
"Uh huh, agreed Maddie!" Added Riley, screwing up her face at the thought of the stuff. It made Madeline chuckle.
Madeline inquired, "Mom how do you raise the bed up?"
"Just push the 'Up' button," replied Amy, nodding towards the button panel. She pressed the up button for Madeline and the bed raised upwards by a few degrees until it was in a position Madeline was comfortable with. "There you go."
Madeline said "Thanks Mom! Boy this bed is neat." as she ate her snack and drink.
…
The next morning, Dr. William came to talk to Madeline's parents, who were in her hospital room again. "Mr. and Ms. Fogg? I wish to speak with you."
Amy said "Yes, alright, Doctor"
Dr William began, "All of Madeline tests that we took the first few days came out just fine. However, Madeline's lung is trying to heal itself; so, I would like Madeline to be put on a small medical ventilator at night only. But you can still follow up with me next week at the office, and Dr. Ray will be in at eleven to talk with you. Madeline can head home this afternoon; just have her take it easy for a day or so and she will be fine- provided she rests well and regains her appetite."
Paul said, gratefully, "Thank you, Dr. William, for saving our Maddie."
Dr. William replied "Think nothing of it, Mr. Fogg. I am bound to obey the Hippocratic Oath, to help all patients without harming one. I shall see you next week. Madeline must still be asleep, then?" He asked.
Amy said, "Madeline can you open your eyes for Mom? It is morning."
Dr. William smiled. "Ms. Fogg, it is fine if she wants to still sleep in a little some days it will take a while for her body to recover from the drug Dr. Carol put in her blood stream, and from this flu -nothing to worry about, alright? But the good news is that her fever is down, so I will be back to check on her soon. She should be awake by then."
Amy said "Well at least we know Madeline is getting better. Paul, I am just going to head home and get Madeline's things."
Paul said "Good idea. I will stay here with Maddie in case she wakes up."
"Thanks hon," replied Amy, "I will be back soon." And she left the room and went down to her car to return home to Fogg Manor.
….
Madeline opened her eyes "Dad, where is Mom at?" she asked.
Paul said, "Mom is heading home to get your things- and we can head home this afternoon, alright?"
Madeline said, "Okay Dad- but what breakfast do they have? Ooh pancakes with bacon and juice! Dad, please can I have it?" She asked pleadingly.
Paul said, with a kind laugh, "Well alright Madeline just this once," as he placed the order to the Kitchen, much to Madeline's delight.
Madeline cheered, "Yes I can't wait!"
…..
Meanwhile, back at home, Amy had just returned, and Alice and Riley greeted her.
Riley said "Mom is home! But where are Dad and Madeline?"
Alice asked "Mom, where are Dad and Madeline?"
"Calm down, kids" replied Amy. "Madeline won't be home until this afternoon- but she still need to rest first," as Amy headed up to the twins' bedroom. The maids had fixed up both beds, but left the flowers sent from the eleven girls on the window sill.
"A small medical ventilator. Well it helps her, I hope" Amy said quietly to herself as she got Madeline's clothes and backpack- along with socks and shoes, when her cell phone rang. Amy fished it out of her pocket and answered on the second ring. It was Anna. "Hello, Anna, what's up?" She asked breezily.
Anna said "Amy, Dr. Ray came earlier than expected, and Madeline won't let him look down her throat… and Paul needs help."
"Shoot," Said Amy, looking at her watch. It was twenty past ten now.
"Right, if you can, tell him I'm on my way," she said, and ran down and out of the front door… right past Alice and Riley… forgetting that she had left Madeline's belongings on her bed.
Maxwell, who had passed the twins' room, said "Boy Mom sure left fast- because I see Maddie's backpack and clothes on the bed."
"We should find a way to get them to Mom." Alice said. "Madeline will need them when she's discharged!"
Riley asked, "Well how do we snake out without being seen, let alone caught, by Rachel- we have to see what's up with Maddie, please?"
Alice sighed, "Okay fine- I will see if Uncle Billy can give us a ride, alright?"
Riley said "Alice I will pack Madeline things, and water the flowers."
Maxwell said "Boy, Riley sure can talk fast. Need help, sis?"
"No thanks- I've got this!" Riley replied confidently and set off to do that; whilst Alice rang their Uncle Billy.
Alice said, worriedly "Pick up, pick up, Uncle Billy," as she heard the dial tone, before she heard a "Hello?" Feeling triumphant, she said "Yes Uncle Billy we need ride to the hospital, please? Mom forgot Madeline's things and she is coming home today."
Billy said "I am on my way, Alice. Just be ready to jump in the truck for when I get there, and I'll take you down in the hospital. I'll see you in ten minutes."
….
Meanwhile, at the hospital, Dr. Ray said cheerfully "Hello Mr Fogg- I know I am early, but I would like to test Madeline, please." He noted her empty breakfast tray, and his expression morphed to one of surprise. "Wow she finished her breakfast." Once her tray had been cleared by Nurse Anna, who sent a sympathetic smile to Paul and Madeline, Dr. Ray continued "Can I look down your throat Madeline, please- open your mouth sweetheart."
But Madeline kept her mouth closed.
"Madeline, Mom is on her way back. Can you please open your mouth for me really quick?" Paul cajoled.
Madeline just stuck out her tongue instead.
Smiling apologetically at Dr. Ray, Paul admitted "Madeline can be stubborn sometimes."
"I understand," Agreed Dr. Ray. "Children don't like this sort of thing- and my own kids don't like it either. But it does need to be done if Madeline is to stand a chance of recovering. If she isn't these tests can predict what potential treatments might be needed." He heard footsteps in the hall, and he grinned. "Perhaps, sir, your wife might be better at getting Maddie to cooperate."
Sure enough, Amy came through the doorway, and immediately said "I am back Madeline Olivia Fogg, and I want to see your mouth open right now- or do you want to stay here longer? You have ten minutes to think missy'"
Madeline thought of what Amy had just said, and quickly opened her mouth.
Amy advised, "Paul just be a little tough on her. She's a good kid; just stubborn and wilful. These sorts of kids need a little tough love to get what's best for them."
Dr. Ray said, "Good girl," as he looked down her throat with his light. Whilst he did so, Paul immediately observed that something was missing. So, very quietly he asked, "Um, Amy where is Madeline's backpack?"
Amy suddenly looked like a ton of bricks hit her, and she clapped a hand to her mouth. She said, "Oh dear, Anna called me about Maddie not doing as Dr. Ray said, so I left the house… and I left the backpack in the twins' bedroom back at the house… Shoot, sorry Paul."
Dr. Ray said "Well, her lung is still looking a bit weak and red- I would recommend no yelling and screaming for a while, Madeline, alright?" He asked her.
Madeline said "Fine."
Dr. Ray said, "Good now let's try standing alright- Mrs. Fogg, you hold Madeline's hands, and we can try taking a few steps down the hallway."
Amy said "Sure we can try it. You ready Maddie?" She asked, turning to Madeline.
Madeline said, "Yes I am ready!"
"Good- I'll get Madeline's IV pole." Paul decided.
….
Madeline stood with some assistance from Dr. Ray and Amy as they walked along the hallway, and Madeline even had the courage to let go of her mom's hand and walk around for a bit, until she said, "Okay, I'm ready to go back now -my leg feels wobbly."
Dr. Ray said "Okay Madeline, let's head back. They led her back to bed and allowed her to drift off to sleep. She is making good progress. Dr. Ray reassured Paul that Madeline's lethargy was normal, and she'd recover with plenty of rest.
…..
Later, Riley said "Maddie, Maddie- wake up, please."
Madeline stirred, and said "hmm Riley you came!" She whispered joyfully.
Riley said, "Of course we did," As Madeline realized that Maxwell and Alice were with them, along with Uncle Billy. She was about to ask Riley what was going on, but Riley continued talking "…and guess what our eleven friends sent us- flowers!"
Madeline said, blearily, "That is nice Riley- but I am ready to head out of this hospital- with all these nurses coming in and out and waking you up at three am to check for a fever… I'm ready to head home."
Alice replied, "We know you are, Maddie. We want you home, too."
….
Out in the hallway, Dr. Ray said seriously "Mr and Ms Fogg, I would like to see Madeline six months from now, just to see how she is doing. The more she moves, the better she'll feel. But ensure she doesn't overdo exercise, and ensure she eats well and gets plenty of rest to help her recover."
Amy said, "Thank you, Dr. Ray" Then, she added, "So how was Madeline's lung test that you took the day we brought her in. I heard results just came back."
Dr. Ray said "Mr. and Mrs. Fogg, the test revealed that Madeline's lung did collapse- but I will get together with Dr. William, and we will come to see you all at noon to explain further. I'll let you get back to her."
Paul said, "Thanks Dr. Ray" And the two Fogg parents made their way back to Madeline's room.
Amy added "Paul, I know Madeline is doing fine…. Hmm? Madeline's backpack? But how did it get here? I thought I…"
Billy said "Amy it's alright- Alice called me after your left the house. They are in the room talking to Madeline right now – boy, Madeline is looking a better than Christmas in the ER. So, is she heading home today?"
Amy replied, "Maddie is- but we just need to wait and see what Dr. William, and Dr. Ray say first."
"Mr and Ms. Fogg, I got Madeline's test results and her lung has successfully healed. She may return home soon. "
Dr William said "Mr and Ms Fogg, Dr. Ray. Please sorry he is still new in working with kids, but since it is cold outside, Madeline would have to be wrapped up and in a wheelchair to the lobby"
Paul said "Of course Madeline's lethargy is Normal?"
Dr. William said "Yes Mr. Fogg, it is it normal now Madeline well have mild constipation since she haven't been moving around much in the last few days. See you next week Madeline."
Madeline said "Bye"