Chapter 12: The Holiday
DECEMBER 24TH
SCENE: MEREDITHS HOUSE
(Andrew wakes up to find himself alone and naked in Amber's bed. Amber enters the room wearing her black robe holding two cups of coffee)
Amber: (Grins) Morning. I made you a coffee.
Andrew: (Grins) Thanks.
(Andrew sits up with the blanket covering his waist and Amber sits on her bed. They both sip their coffee)
Andrew: Merry Christmas. I told you that in case you forgot.
Amber: I didn't because it's the 24th not the 25th so it's Christmas eve.
Andrew: Right. What do you have planned for the holidays?
(Andrew seductively unties Amber's robe. Amber gets the message and puts their cups on the nightstand)
Amber: (Lustful) I don't work till tonight.
Andrew: (Pulls her robe exposing her shoulders) Same. How about we celebrate Christmas early for eight hours straight?
Amber: Andrew I am normally impressed with your stamina but sex for eight hours? It seems impossible not to mention unhealthy.
Andrew: (Kisses her shoulder) Well, we can watch Christmas movies in between. I've rented Home Alone, Black Christmas and The Nightmare Before Christmas on my account. We can drink hot cocoa and eat cookies while we watch.
Amber: How did you know I like those movies?
Andrew: Because you told me last week that traditional Christmas movies were unrealistic and cheesy to the point of nausea. I think I quoted you word by word.
Amber: (Takes her robe off completely causing Andrew to grin) You did and I am very impressed. Let's go with your plan, I definitely like it for our first Christmas together as a couple. Now let's bring some Christmas joy to this bed.
(Andrew mischievously grins before leaning in to kiss her. They stop when they hear the front door open and close)
Jo: Amber!? I'm downstairs!
Amber: Oh my god!
(Amber rolls over and falls on the floor with Andrew who yelps at the sudden surprise. They both stand up)
Amber: (Puts her robe back on) Oh god.
Andrew: What is she doing here?
Amber: I don't know.
Jo: I'm coming upstairs okay!
(Andrew wraps the sheet around his waist as Amber panics)
Amber: Hide.
Andrew: What?
Amber: Hide!
(Amber hears Jo getting closer and runs to Andrew pushing him towards the closet)
Amber: (Whispers) Get in the closet.
Andrew: (Taken back) What? I am not getting in the-
Amber: (Whispers) Just get in the closet!
(Andrew goes inside the closet right when Jo opened the door. Amber turns with a smile)
Amber: Hey sis! Happy holidays! What brings you here?
Jo: Oh, I just came to see you before I go into work, I wanted to tell that Alex is gonna give everyone hams as a Christmas gift and I wanted to eat breakfast with you maybe catch up. I feel like I haven't seen you in a while.
Amber: You haven't seen me? Jo, we see each other at the hospital every day.
Jo: I know but lately I felt like…I don't know.
(Jo walks to Amber's bookshelf and flips through a book while she does that Amber notices Andrew's black boxer briefs on her bed which she quickly throws in the closet where Andrew gives her the stink eye as he catches his underwear)
Jo: I mean you moved out and that's great but you've been busy with your residency and I've been busy with my fellowship I just felt like we haven't really hung out. I mean we're officially sisters now and I want us to spend some quality time even if its just a little bit you know?
Amber: (Nods) You are absolutely right so why don't we start now? (Yells so Andrew can hear) Lets go downstairs and I'll make you some hot chocolate with marshmallows and we can catch up. Come on.
(Amber pushes Jo out the door leaving Andrew alone in his closet. The women head to the kitchen)
Amber: Oh no why don't you sit here?
(Amber seats Jo on the chair that's not facing the living room. Amber gets the cocoa powder and milk out and heats the stove)
Amber: (Sits in front of Jo) So how have you been? How's married life treating you?
Jo: It's so good Alex and I made the windstorm into our second honeymoon in the apartment and it was so romantic the downside is-
(Amber blocks out Jo as she sees Andrew slowly and quietly coming down the stairs fully clothed)
Jo: Bailey and I are gonna start looking into electronic skin see if we can actually make it happen. It is very cool. Do you want to see the articles I dug up? It's in my car if you want to take a look at it.
(Jo is about to turn around)
Amber: No!
(Andrew freezes on the first step before Amber grabs Jo's shoulders and turns her)
Jo: Why not?
Amber: Because…what kind of intern would I be if I didn't personally search up the future of medicine-
(Andrew quietly opens the door and leaves the house relieving Amber who rambles to distract Jo)
Amber: At the very workplace that's dedicated to it? An intern that's not gonna last in a lab let alone an O.R. am I right?
Jo: …Okay I guess I'll send you a link if you want.
Amber: Yeah, that's fine thanks.
(Amber exhales and prepares the hot chocolate)
MEANWHILE IN THE PIT
(Sam rubs the back of a Santa who throws up in a bin)
Sam: Okay let it out that's it. (To Nurse Taylor) Can you take over?
(Taylor takes the bin from her and Sam walks to the station where Casey goes over his charts)
Sam: That's the fifth Santa I've treated for alcohol poisoning. I swear these guys look jolly but their truly jolly in a bar.
Casey: Its not even 10. I got an elf with a hand lac after he lifted up a lady's skirt, little did he know she carried a knife.
Sam: (Groans) The most wonderful time of the year, am I right?
Casey: Eh I think the presents and snow make up for half of it. Do you have any plans?
Sam: I was planning to go down to Florida to visit my mom but she and my sister are taking a cruise across the Bahamas. I get seasick so I opted to stay. What about you? Do you have family?
Casey: No. I had plans to visit them with my girlfriend but then she dumped me…for her spin instructor.
Sam: Ouch I'm so sorry.
Casey: It's fine I ate two jugs of ice cream and stayed in bed for three days so I think I'm almost over it.
Sam: If it makes you feel better, I don't have anyone to kiss under the mistletoe either. Me, Taryn and Dahlia are planning to stay in at my place and watch the grinch who stole Christmas and drink eggnog with brandy. Do you want to join us? We promise to keep our hands to ourselves.
Casey: (Chuckles) Thanks but I'm just gonna stay in my apartment and play online solitaire. I'll let you know if I change my mind.
(Casey heads to a Mrs. Clause with a head lac)
LATER AT ANDREWS APARTMENT
(Andrew hears a knock on the door and opens it to find Amber on the other side with a guilty look on her face)
Andrew: Let me guess, you're going to apologize for hiding me in your closet.
(Andrew heads to the living room with Amber closing the door behind her)
Amber: Yes, and I also want to explain. When I heard her voice, I reacted by instinct.
Andrew: You have the instincts of a 15-year-old caught by her parents?
Amber: Exactly!
(Andrew gives Amber a look)
Amber: No look I-
Andrew: Wait a minute, are you ashamed of me? Are you embarrassed to be seen with me?
Amber: No! Not at all. If anything, the roles should be reversed.
Andrew: Yeah, but they're not because unlike you I don't care what others think of us. I don't care if they think I'm taking advantage of an intern when I know I'm not. I'm sorry if you don't feel the same way.
Amber: No-I just- (Groans) Andrew this past month together has been amazing and call me selfish but I want to keep what we have to ourselves a little bit longer before the whole hospital shoves their gossipy heads into our lives. I mean I don't want our siblings to get nosy in our relationship. Do you?
(Andrew shakes his head. Amber sighs and wraps her arms around Andrew's waist)
Amber: I just want the bubble to last a little bit longer.
Andrew: …Still it was not your best move She-Karev.
Amber: I agree. How about I make it up to you?
Andrew: (Intrigued) What did you have in mind?
Amber: Well…
(Amber buttons down her blouse revealing her red lace bra with white fur trim catching Andrew's eye)
Amber: I was thinking we could celebrate the holidays in here instead. Where there aren't any kids or roommates or sisters to interrupt us.
Andrew: Mmm I definitely like that-
(They freeze when they hear the door knock)
Amber: (Panicking) She's stalking us. She knows.
Andrew: (Yells) Who is it?
Carina: It's me now open the door.
(Amber exhales in relief buttoning up her shirt while Andrew panics)
Andrew: Hide. Get in the closet and I'll distract her.
Amber: (Scoffs) No way. I'm not getting in there.
Andrew: Why not? I hid in your closet. Why can't you hide in mine?
Amber: Why should I?
Carina: Andrea? Is everything okay?
Andrew: Its fine! I'm just cleaning up. (Faces Amber) Okay maybe I'm not ready for people to find out right now either especially my sister.
Amber: How is she gonna know?
Andrew: You're here just like I was there when your sister barged in.
Amber: Yes, but the difference is that I have my pants on. She's not gonna know unless we tell her.
Andrew: …Fine just act normal.
Amber: Okay.
(Andrew opens the door letting his sister in who is surprised by Amber)
Andrew: (Italian) I thought you were still back home? What happened? Is it papa?
Carina: (Italian) No he's fine I just came to give you your present. (English) Amber? What are you doing here?
Amber: I was in the neighborhood I thought I'd stop by. I have Andrew for secret Santa and I wanted to ask him what he would like instead of getting him something he'll hate by surprise.
Andrew: Yes, and I was telling her that I would like a new wristband for my smart watch preferably something blue or black.
Amber: Great. I'll leave the two of you to catch up I'll see you at work.
Andrew: Bye.
Amber: Merry Christmas Carina.
Carina: Happy Christmas.
(Amber leaves the apartment. Carina gives Andrew a knowing look and smile)
Andrew: What?
Carina: (Italian) You are dating Amber Karev!
Andrew: What? No, I'm not she just stopped by to ask me something that's all.
Carina: Mm-hm.
(Carina walks to the couch where she pulls out a blue lace thong)
Andrew: (Eyes wide) Um, how-how do you know those aren't some other girls?
Carina: (Grins) Are they?
Andrew: (Sighs) Fine yes, we're dating and give me those. (Grabs thong)
Carina: (Italian) I have missed a lot these past few months, haven't I?
Andrew: (Italian) Don't, I am begging you don't, just because she's pan does not make her fair game.
Carina: (Chuckles) You really like her, don't you? You don't normally get this possessive over your girlfriends. Based on where I found her thong you two must be going stable.
Andrew: Steady and we haven't even labeled it yet. It's been less than a month and I don't want to scare her off. She doesn't want anyone in the hospital to know so I would appreciate it if you kept this a secret.
Carina: What? Why does she want to keep this a secret? Is she embarrassed?
Andrew: No, its just that she doesn't want anyone to gossip around her again. I mean you saw how miserable she was last time that happened. We just want to keep what's happening between us for a little while.
Carina: Okay I understand and I will keep my mouth closed.
Andrew: Shut.
LATER THAT NIGHT IN THE LOCKER ROOM
(Amber opens Levi's present and pulls out a $50 Amazon card)
Amber: Wow! Thanks Levi it's just what I wanted. Money to buy stuff.
Levi: Well, it's not like your easy to buy gifts for so I thought you could buy it yourself. What did you get me?
(Amber hands her gift and Levi opens it and pulls out a Gizmo funko pop)
Levi: Aww! How did you know I love Gremlins?
Amber: Because you told me that it was your favorite Christmas movie of all time and you'd want Gizmo for a pet. Gizmo doesn't exist so a doll is the best I could do.
Taryn: Technically it's not a Christmas movie.
Levi: You shut your uncultured mouth. I love it thank you.
Amber: No problem. So, any Christmas plans with Nico?
Levi: He's visiting his family so he won't be back until the day after Christmas. What about you any plans with Andrew?
Amber: No and please don't say that here, god knows who eavesdrops and spreads the word.
Taryn: (Unbothered) Oh please people already know.
Amber: …Um what?
Taryn: And Casey and Sam and the nursing staff and half of the attendings. Nurse Ginger saw you two kissing in the parking lot last week and told everyone. It's out and about Amber you don't have to hide.
Amber: Oh god does Alex know? Jo?
Levi: Probably.
Amber: …I have to go. Merry Christmas.
Levi: I'm Jewish.
Amber: Happy Hanukkah.
(Amber runs out and heads to Alex's office. She sees a dozen hams in his table and couch)
Amber: Hey Alex, Merry Christmas. Wow your wife wasn't kidding about the hams, was she?
Alex: I'm just trying to make a good impression while I'm chief. What's a Christmas dinner without a ham?
Amber: Touche. So, do you and Jo have plans for the holidays?
Alex: Uh we're just gonna spend the morning giving each other gifts, kiss under the mistletoe and then we're gonna head to work. What about you? Are you gonna visit mom?
Amber: Your kidding, right?
Alex: I didn't know if I was or not until you answered. You should come over nobody should spend the holidays alone.
Amber: I appreciate that but I'm actually gonna work tomorrow. So…I'm here to tell you something…concerning my love life.
Alex: (Looks at her confused) Are you my sister or an intern right now?
Amber: Eh it depends on how you look at it, I guess.
(Alex sits at his desk and types in his computer)
Alex: Okay what is it? Are you and Maya back together?
Amber: No, it's not about Maya its…it's about Andrew DeLuca. Everybody else in this place knows because apparently doctors and nurses like to gossip more than save lives and so I wanted you to hear it from me. I don't know where it's going or if it's even going anywhere but I wanted to let you know that Andrew DeLuca and I are dating.
(Alex doesn't respond as he continues to type)
Amber: Well?
Alex: I mean I knew you liked the guy but I didn't think you would actually do anything so this is really only a half surprise.
Amber: (Shocked) What? You knew? How?
Alex: (Grins) I'm the chief I know everything and see everything even when you don't want me to.
Amber: (Looks at Alex and figured it out) Webber told you.
Alex: Yeah, the guy is a diehard gossip. Did you tell me this as the chief or your brother?
Amber: I don't know. Do you have anything to say either way?
Alex: Well…as chief I have to tell you to report your relationship to HR and as your brother, I hope he makes you happy.
Amber: (Smiles) He does he really does. Um one more thing do you mind not telling Jo, I would prefer if she heard it from me too.
Jo: Jo knows.
(Amber turns and sees Jo at the door with her casual clothes on and sporting a knowing smile)
Amber: How long have you been standing there?
Jo: A while but I figured it out when I went by Mer's this morning.
Amber: What? How? I hid him in the closet.
Alex: You hid your boyfriend in the closet?
Amber: Okay he's not officially my boyfriend and I reacted! And how did you figure it out?
Jo: I saw him in the closet in the mirror. I also saw you tossing his undies in there.
Amber: (Sighs) Perfect now everybody knows. If you will both excuse me, I have to find my…my Andrew and explain that we don't have to hide anymore, bye and merry Christmas.
Jo: Oh wait. Alex and I are having a New Year's Eve party at the loft. We're gonna have an open bar and fancy snacks, show people how the chief and misses chief celebrate. Its dark blue scrubs only but you should come.
Amber: An open bar? I am in, I'll see if Andrew's available.
Jo: Great we'll see you then. Merry Christmas.
(Amber leaves the room and heads to the third floor where she sees Andrew charting at the nurse's station)
Amber: Hey. I was wondering if you could look at Natasha Deon's brain scan. Dr. Shepherd is repairing a brain bleed with Sam.
Andrew: Uh yeah just hand me the scans.
(Amber gives the tablet to Andrew who looks at the scans. Amber sees a group of interns watching them and whispering pointing at them. Without warning Amber grabs Andrew's face and kisses him in the middle of the floor. Andrew responds after the shock ends and looks at her with a grin on his face when they finish)
Andrew: (Astonished) Dr. Karev.
(Andrew turns and sees the interns sheepishly look away)
Amber: I am not ashamed of you I want to make that clear to you. I was afraid of going through the scrutiny and gossip again but I went through it without even knowing. They think your using me to get back at my brother and I'm using you to get back at you but they can't see what I see and that is on them. They all know about us and I couldn't care less anymore. I don't care what they think because their opinions mean nothing as long as I am happy with you. And I am.
Andrew: (Sighs in relief) Thank God because my sister found out about us after you left.
Amber: How? (Accusingly) Did you tell her?
Andrew: No, I didn't she found this on my couch.
(Andrew pulls her thong out of his pocket. Amber quickly grabs it)
Amber: I thought I forgot something last week. Okay so now everybody including both of our siblings know. I told Alex and he was actually okay with it. He just told me to report to HR with this and that he's happy if I'm happy.
Andrew: He did? Wow and here I thought I was gonna have to look into witness protection.
Amber: (Chuckles) Do have any plans for New Year's Eve?
Andrew: None why?
Amber: Because Alex and Jo are gonna have a New Year's Eve party at their place and they invited me. Do you want to be my plus one? There's an open bar.
Andrew: (Grins) I would love that. There's no one else I want to kiss after midnight.
Amber: Right back at you. Now come on let's head to the cafeteria to get our hams. Chiefs present.
Andrew: All right-wait a minute hams?
(Amber and Andrew walk side by side to the cafeteria)
LATER AT SAMS APARTMENT
(Sam sits on her couch eating cookies while watching The Polar Express. A knock on the door forces her to pause the movie and open it revealing Casey on the other side holding wine)
Sam: I thought you were gonna play cards? What are you doing here?
Casey: Um I decided to take your offer and join you and the others, are they inside?
Sam: (Groans) No they ditched me so they could watch the nutcracker. They won tickets by raffle so I'm all alone watching Christmas movies and drinking eggnog brandy without the eggnog.
Casey: Mind if I join you? Maybe I can help you finish it so you won't wake up with a massive hangover. Plus, I already bought this wine for you so your obligated to let me in.
Sam: (Chuckles) Okay. Come on in.
(Casey comes inside the lavish studio apartment)
Casey: Nice place.
Sam: Thanks. It definitely beats my last one with the roommate and her hairless cat.
Casey: How did you afford this place? The VA wasn't this generous to me.
Sam: Swedish doctors are very generous and I actually do a weekly budget. I hope you like The Polar Express.
Casey: Love it.
(Sam and Casey sit on the couch and resume the movie. Casey looks at Sam as she swigs her brandy)
MEANWHILE AT ANDREWS APARTMENT
(Amber and Andrew dig into their hams as Black Christmas ends)
Andrew: The killer was abused and held hostage by his mom, raped by her so she could get pregnant and then teamed up with his sister slash daughter to kill a bunch of rando sorority girls.
Amber: Yeah, pretty much.
Andrew: Wow and I thought our families were messed up.
Amber: (Chuckles) Man these hams are so good. Is there any chance you want to give yours to me?
Andrew: (Laughs) I'll save it for you after work. What's next on your realistic slash scary Christmas movies list?
Amber: Well, I was inspired by Levi today and decided to rent Gremlins. What do you say?
Andrew: Oh, thank God it's a movie with cute creatures and no skeletons trying to ruin Christmas. I will take it and the sequels please.
Amber: I'll make the last batch of cookies, you play it.
(Amber gets up to make the cookies while Andrew finds the movie)
DECEMBER 26TH
SCENE: CARDIO FLOOR
(Maggie and Amber go through Natasha's latest chest x ray)
Maggie: What do you see Karev?
Amber: Uh there's a little inflammation around the superior lobe but that's consistent with patients who have been on the ventilator for extensive periods of time. Left untreated it could lead to her lungs weaking significantly.
Maggie: Very good start her on Toradol in the iv, monitor her closely and page me if anything changes.
Amber: I thought Schmitt was covering the ICU?
Maggie: He is but I know you professionally as a very competent intern while I know Schmitt as someone who has continuously screwed up even the basic of protocols. I trust you with Natasha and I want you to report back to me, can you do that?
Amber: Yes Dr. Pierce.
(Amber leaves and heads to the narcotics cabinet grabbing Toradol. Sam walks in causing an awkward moment before Sam goes to the cabinet)
Amber: I um have a lady who fell from a balcony in need of anti-inflammatories you?
Sam: Meningioma in the occipital lobe who needs painkillers. Wait the balcony lady? Isn't that Natasha?
Amber: You know Natasha?
Sam: (Scoffs) Yeah, I mean everyone does, a woman falls off a second story the day before her wedding. Talk about crappy luck am I right?
Amber: (Nods) I have to get to the ICU.
Sam: Yeah, I have to go too.
(Both women walk away from each other and head to their respective floors)
LATER AT MIDNIGHT IN THE ICU
(Amber checks Natasha's vitals while Garrett holds her hand)
Amber: Her vitals sound good; the anti-inflammatories are working. Dr. Pierce will do another chest x ray in the morning. I'll be outside if you need me, Garrett.
Garrett: Thank you.
(Amber exits the room to join Levi and Nico as they sit in the chairs at the nurse's station)
Amber: God this place is like a ghost town.
Levi: I know right? Its creepy in here.
Nico: I'll protect you.
Levi: (Teasing) You are so cheesy.
(Amber grins as they laugh. Andrew enters the floor)
Amber: Hey what are you doing here?
Andrew: Hey Dr. Shepherd asked me to come check on Natasha.
Garrett: Help! Hello! Somebody? Page Dr. Grey.
(All of them run inside the room where they find Natasha with her eyes open)
Garrett: Oh, my God, it's Natasha. She's...
Andrew: She's awake.
(Amber and Andrew smile at each other over the Christmas miracle)
LATER THAT MORNING
(Maggie and Amber walk with the others to Natasha's room)
Maggie: Repeat it back to me.
Amber: Natasha Deon's latest chest x ray show no inflammation or pneumonia and her lungs have gotten stronger since she woke up.
Maggie: Excellent. What are we going to do in response to this incredible improvement?
Amber: We are going to close her thoracostomy.
Maggie: Very good. I still can't believe this; I mean this woman is awake after a month in the ICU its…its-
Amber: A Christmas miracle?
Maggie: Yes, that's it. Okay let's do this.
(They all enter the room to find a happy Garrett and Natasha who is still on the ventilator)
Garrett: Thank you. Thank you, thank you, thank you. I'm saying it a lot for the both of us.
Meredith: Schmitt?
Levi: Natasha Deon, 45 hospital day 35. Neuro, she regained consciousness overnight. She is now A&O times three. Cardio and pulmonary, she's on a vent and has an open thoracostomy for empyema drainage. MSK, spine was cleared, and her pelvis was fixed internally.
Garrett: When will she be able to talk?
Jo: We're working on decreasing her vent settings first.
Meredith: We also have to get her nutrition up. She's weak and has been through quite a lot.
Maggie: We can close the thoracostomy today, though, since her lungs are doing so much better.
Link: Natasha, we need you to get strong for us. I'm gonna get you up and out of that bed soon, okay?
Meredith: Let's make sure the respiratory therapist brings that peep down to 5. Welcome back, Natasha.
Amelia: You may get that planetarium wedding yet.
Garrett: At this point, I'd settle for a courthouse.
(They chuckle and leave the room)
Maggie: Okay, meet back at Natasha's in an hour with tools for a percostal suturing. I'm gonna check on my post ops.
Amber: Yes ma'am.
(Amber leaves the ICU passing Sam who talks to Casey)
Casey: It's the 27th and I still have drunk Santa's why is that? Don't they get a notification on when Christmas passes?
Sam: I think they're too wasted to check.
Casey: (Chuckles) Oh heads up.
(Sam turns and sees Andrew heading towards her)
Andrew: (Clears throat) Hi uh Dr. Shepherd left to visit Betty and told me to tell you to check on her pre and post ops and report back to Koracick.
Sam: Okay-Wait who's Betty?
Andrew: She's…her ex-husbands foster son's birth mom that she took in and is now raising with Dr. Hunt so that she can help her get clean. She's visiting her in rehab.
Sam: (Blinks) I probably shouldn't have asked because that whole sentence just screams complicated.
Casey: Major Altman is also pregnant with Major Hunt's baby so that's a cherry on the complicated top.
Andrew: Yeah, so just-
Sam: Report to Koracick got it.
(Andrew nods and leaves the floor with Casey giving Sam a questioning look)
Casey: Any residual feelings at all?
Sam: Uh no not really. I mean it's gotten to the point where I don't want to shove him in a supply closet every time I look at him so I think that's progress.
Casey: It is for you and for everyone else that heard you two through the walls.
Sam: You'll still hear it, it just won't me in that room with him.
Casey: Ah things still tense with you and She-Karev?
Sam: (Sarcastically) No we meet up after work and braid each other's hair, I think we're about this close to becoming besties.
Casey: Right, let's talk about something else. Is your family gonna be back by new year's?
Sam: No, the cruise doesn't end till January 2nd. The Karev's are having a new year's party but its navy scrubs and Chief's sister only so we baby blues are gonna meet at Joe's and have our own classy party. What about you? Are you visiting the family?
Casey: No. I'm trying to avoid my parent's pitiful eyes over the end of my relationship so I'm having an orphan new years eve. Literally, I'm gonna order take out and watch the movie Orphan and then watch the ball drop. It's sad I know.
Sam: I have to tiptoe around my ex and his girlfriend who looks like she stepped out of a runway show that is sad you are rightfully depressed. Come to Joe's and celebrate, I can tell people you're my date so we both won't look like single losers during the holidays which…we are but they don't have to know that. What do you say?
Casey: (Sighs) What the hell?
Sam: (Grins) Great! See you before 2019.
(Sam walks away from Casey who heads to the pit)
DECEMBER 31ST
(Andrew paces downstairs in Meredith's house waiting for Amber to get ready)
Andrew: She-Karev! The new year is gonna start in two hours! Get your butt down here!
Amber: I'm coming, I'm coming keep your panties on.
(Amber runs down the stairs in a long strapless black dress with a slit on the side exposing her left leg. Her lips are painted bright red and her heels are strappy. Andrew looks at her in awe)
Andrew: How do you get more beautiful every time I see you?
Amber: (Grins) Oh, please you're just trying to get into my pants for another year.
Andrew: Believe me I am not.
(Andrew leans in to kiss Amber who puts her finger against his lips)
Amber: Nah-ah. No kissing till the ball drops.
Andrew: (Chuckles) Seriously?
Amber: Seriously do you know how long it took to get my lips this color within the lips. I don't want to ruin it until 2019 so down boy.
Andrew: (Groans) If I knew that I would've let you get ready another hour. How am I gonna survive not kissing you for two hours?
Amber: Man up. I didn't kiss anyone for 13 years you can survive 2 hours. Now let's go while it's still 2018.
Andrew: All right. 13 really?
Amber: Yeah, Michael Hemlock from home room under the bleachers. Let's go.
(Andrew and Amber drive to the loft where they are greeted by Jo and Alex)
Jo: Hi!
Amber: Hi! Oh my god Jo this party looks amazing!
Andrew: Seriously it is. I mean this definitely beats sitting at home watching the ball drop.
Alex: Right? I didn't think this place could be used for a party but man was I wrong!
Jo: Okay bars over there, snacks are there and hats and glasses are there. Enjoy the party! Happy new year!
Amber: Happy new year.
Alex: Happy new year. No kissing till midnight.
Amber: Way ahead of you bro.
(Jo and Alex leave to mingle with the others)
Andrew: Drink?
Amber: Yes please.
(Amber and Andrew go to the bar)
Bartender: What do you want?
Andrew: I'll have what she's having.
Amber: Vodka martini extra dirty, stirred.
Andrew: Wow stirred not shaken?
Amber: Shaken is for lightweights who can't handle their booze. Its fine if you want something else.
Andrew: No, I'm fine with those thanks.
(Andrew and Amber grab their drinks and clink them. Amber sips without a problem while Andrew winces after)
Amber: I told you, you could get another drink bad boy.
Andrew: (Raspy) I'm fine. (Coughs) Are you part robot or something?
Amber: (Chuckles) Nah these are the Karev genes; we're built to stand massive quantities of alcohol.
Andrew: I can tell. Okay I'm gonna try again.
(Andrew tries to sip the vodka without wincing and almost succeeds before coughing after)
Amber: (Laughs) Easy. Can I get a glass of water for James Bond here?
Bartender: You got it.
(Amber pats Andrew's back as he drinks the water)
LATER AT JOES
(Sam, Casey, Taryn and Dahlia drink as they discuss the worst moment of 2018 while music plays with the ball drop playing on the tv)
Dahlia: Okay um my worst moment? My worst moment is when I went to a party after match day with my friend Hilary. I was personally invited by this really and I mean really good-looking guy in my Immunology course. He said he hoped to see me there and I went hoping that he would ask me out or kiss me before we start our residencies in separate places. He went ahead and danced with Hilary and kissed her.
(The three of them groan)
Dahlia: Yeah, turns out he was hoping I would bring Hilary.
Taryn: You were the DUFF.
Dahlia: What?
Sam: Don't answer that.
Casey: I agree don't.
Dahlia: What is it?
Taryn: Um…It's a movie about this girl who's overlooked for her more attractive friends, she's…she's called the DUFF.
Sam: Designated Ugly Fat Friend.
Dahlia: (Freezes from shock) Lets move on. Sam? What's your worst moment of 2018?
Sam: Hm its kind of hard to choose between getting deported and having to break up with your boyfriend or coming back and walking in on said boyfriend with your fellow intern in his place.
Taryn: It's like Sophie's Choice.
Casey: I'm gonna get us another round. It's on me.
(The girls cheer for Casey who walks away smiling)
Dahlia: Oh my god I am sensing some romantic tension between the two of you.
Sam: …What?
Taryn: You and Casey, it's obvious. He likes you and you like him.
Sam: (Chuckles) What? No, no way. We're just friends.
Dahlia: He looks at you like your naked and you spent Christmas and new years eve together. You two like each other even if you don't know it yet.
Sam: Okay I invited him to both occasions out of courtesy and he just broke up with his girlfriend so he's obviously not looking for anything serious anytime soon. Neither am I.
Taryn: Okay so if you two weren't new single would you get it on? Would you make a move?
Sam: (Mouth gaping) I…I-Look Casey is cute and funny but he and I work at the same place and I already have awkward encounters with one ex I don't need another one. When does 2019 start? I am so ready for this year to be over.
Casey: Hey guys! 2019 in t minus 30 seconds!
(They get off the booth and to the bar where they watch the tv and countdown from 10)
Everyone: 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1. Happy new year!
(Everyone cheers and claps as they kiss their special someone. Sam and Casey look at each other and decide to join in kissing each other)
Sam: (Smiles) Happy New Year.
Casey: Happy 2019.
(They continue to celebrate)
MEANWHILE AT JO AND ALEXS LOFT
(Amber and Andrew chat with Nico and Levi one minute before the ball drops)
Nico: I can't believe you used to live here, its dope.
Amber: (Chuckles) Yeah you would think that but past the balloons and free champagne are no walls and only one bed. I was close to bunking with Schmitt in his mom's basement if it wasn't for Maggie.
Levi: And now you're bunking with the chief of general and cardio. I have to admit I'm kind of jealous.
Andrew: Trust me you wouldn't. Nothing kills a sex vibe more than listening to Doc Mcstuffins through the walls.
Amber: (Teasing) And yet that hasn't stopped you.
Andrew: Okay it's hard to not kiss you before midnight when you talk in that sultry voice and give me those ocean blue eyes. Stop it. Stop it.
(Amber grins as Jo makes an announcement)
Jo: Hey everyone! It's almost midnight!
Andrew: Finally.
(They quickly grab the mini champagnes Alex hands out and begin the countdown)
Everyone: 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1. Happy new year!
(Amber and Andrew kiss)
Andrew: (Smiles) Happy New Year.
Amber: (Smiles) Happy New Year.
(The continue to kiss as 2019 begins)
CUT TO BLACK
JANUARY 6TH
SCENE: GREY SLOAN PARKING LOT
(Andrew takes off his helmet and gets off his bike. Amber parks her car four spaces next to him and approaches him)
Andrew: You know if you want, I can give you a ride to work sometime. It's faster that way and less traffic.
Amber: (Scoffs) No thanks, ever since I did a study on motorcycle injuries for my med school essay, I've monikered that death machine you ride as 'death machines'.
(Andrew grins at Amber holding hands with her as they walk side by side to the hospital)
Amber: So, uh listen-
Andrew: Oh no.
Amber: What?
Andrew: Whenever you say 'so listen' it's always so you can prepare me for something bad. What is it? Just rip off the bandage I can handle it.
Amber: Okay, I made an appointment with HR this morning before we head to rounds so, we can formally report our relationship.
(Andrew chuckles assuming she's kidding but stops when he sees she's not laughing)
Andrew: Of course, your serious. Amber, the whole hospital knows about us already I don't feel comfortable recapping how we started this to some stranger in a desk who-
Amber: Could very well get us fired if they find out about it from someone else. You know these harpies can't keep their mouths shut and I want to have control of how HR finds out. Can you do that? For me?
(Amber pleads with Andrew through her eyes until he caves in)
Andrew: (Sighs) Fine but only because you gave me those puppy dog eyes. Do you practice that or does it come naturally?
Amber: (Grins) I practice in front of a mirror every night. How do you think I got my dates to pay for dinner when I was a starving med student?
(Andrew chuckles and they both enter the lobby)
THIRTY MINUTES LATER IN HR
(Andrew and Amber sit across the desk of Peter Gavin as they answer questions about their relationship)
Peter: How would you describe the exact nature of the relationship at this time?
(Andrew and Amber carefully consider their answer until Amber's nervousness catches up causing her to use humor to put her at ease)
Amber: Have you ever seen that movie 9½ weeks? Kim Basinger and Mickey Rourke? It's basically fifty shades but in the 80's and there's some chemistry. I think that reference describes our relationship enough.
(Andrew grins slightly as Amber chuckles nervously. Peter begins to write on his notepad after she's done causing them to stop and take the matter seriously)
Andrew: She's kidding, obviously. It's uh it's a sexual relationship, there's nothing weird or anything kinky like that so you don't have to write the whole 'erotica movie' down.
Amber: (Wants to clarify as well) No god no sorry it's just I ramble when I'm nervous and I use humor to put myself at ease. The sex is good, it's normal.
Andrew: I can confirm that, it's super normal.
Amber: Yeah, I mean nothing freaky is happening there.
Andrew: Well, I mean it gets a little bit freaky from time to time especially when she has a good day but-
Amber: Well, you've never complained before or during or after, especially when I-
(Andrew coughs to stop her. They both quiet down and look at Peter who looks at them oddly)
Peter: So, you two are dating and having sex?
Amber: Yep.
Andrew: Yes. I believe that I can still work with Dr. Amber Karev effectively but as per the chief's suggestion we want to follow hospital policy and report to you.
Peter: Doctors, our concern is that there is no conflict of interest. No liability for the hospital if this goes sideways. I understand that there was conflict between you and Chief Karev two years ago and given how you are dating his younger sister I worry-
Andrew: Look um what happened between me and the senior Karev happened in the past. I have moved on from that and I assure you that my relationship with Sh-Amber Karev is not some…plot to sue the hospital the chief is currently running for some petty revenge.
Amber: And I'm not trying to get back at Andrew for reacting in a reasonable manner during a difficult time in his and my brother's life…just in case you were wondering as well.
Peter: Well, thank you for those statements. As for the liability issues I know that you two are not going to sue because you are going to sign love contracts.
(Peter hands them both a piece of paper)
Amber: What are love contracts?
Peter: It's a contract that states this relationship is consensual and that you are both aware of the sexual harassment policy. This way you both and the hospital will be protected in case this ends on bad terms.
Andrew: (Exhales) Okay.
(Andrew takes out a pen and signs it causing Amber to gape at him over how quickly he signed it)
Amber: Wait a minute that's it? You're not gonna read it?
Andrew: Why should I? He just explained-
Amber: You don't just sign a piece of paper that a supervisor gives you willy nilly. For all you know there could be a loophole allowing me to…tell everyone how bad you are in the sack so you don't score with another intern.
(Andrew pinches the bridge of his nose over Amber's comment)
Peter: (Calm) Are you planning to tell everyone about his disappointing sexual performance?
Amber: …No.
Peter: Then we have nothing to worry about. You two sign these contracts and we can get this out of the way.
(Amber sighs but signs the contract after reading it over. They both stand up to leave)
Amber: I was kidding about the whole bad in bed thing. He's actually incredible it's very athletic and-
Andrew: (Embarrassed) Okay come on Amber rounds are about to start.
(They both quickly leave the room)
LATER AT THE LOBBY
(Sam and Amelia walk side by side out of the ICU after checking on Natasha)
Amelia: Neuro scan looks good, her spine is clear, and she is responding accordingly. She's a lucky woman.
Sam: I'll say. Is there a possibility she might get out of here soon? We're all rooting for her and Garrett to finally tie the knot.
Amelia: If all goes well then yes. Check on my post ops and schedule an O.R. for Mrs. King's laminectomy this afternoon.
Sam: Yes Dr. Shepherd.
(Sam heads to the neuro floor when she sees Casey typing in the tablet. She takes a deep breath and approaches him)
Sam: Hey.
Casey: Hey. How's Natasha doing?
Sam: She's good her neuro is clear and she's doing good in PT.
Casey: That's great.
(Casey continues to type until he notices Sam is still there with a strange look on her face)
Casey: Yes? Can I help you?
Sam: Um…Are you free tonight?
Casey: Um yeah why? Did you want to hang out?
Sam: Yes, I wanted to know if you could…go on a date with me?
(Casey looks up with a shocked face)
Sam: Its just…Taryn and Dahlia think there's something here and honestly I was on the fence until that new years kiss and thought 'huh maybe their right' anyways I know that you just broke up with someone and I have that whole Andrew thing but I want to move on and I think you're the person to help me do that and I think I'm the person to help you too so…do you want to grab dinner after work?
Casey: (Inhales and Exhales) …yeah. How does drinks after work sound?
Sam: Drinks sound great. I'll see you tonight.
Casey: Sure.
(Casey and Sam walk back to their respective tasks)
MEANWHILE AT THE SKILLS LAB
(Amber stitches her suture into her sixth banana with Maggie watching as Andrew walks in with lunch)
Andrew: Hey, I got you a veggie wrap, I thought you were on cardio today.
Maggie: She is. She's on her sixth flawless continuous suture while I sit here and judge. She hits ten bananas and she can suture in a graft in the next CABG.
Amber: (Sole focus on the banana) Exactly, now hush Andrew. I need focus and you being here brings me out of it, leave the wrap and I'll make up for my negligence tonight at your place.
Andrew: Okay I am obviously not wanted here so I will see you tonight.
(Andrew kisses Amber's cheek and leaves. Amber's thumb cramps causing her to mess it up)
Amber: Damn it!
Maggie: Again.
Amber: (Groans) At this rate I'll be finished by the time your nieces and nephew are residents here.
Maggie: (Chuckles) How are Natasha's latest chest scans?
Amber: Their clear no signs of inflammation or pneumonia. She's doing well in PT too.
Maggie: Good she's making progress that is so good.
(Maggie sighs and looks at her phone waiting for an answer from Webber)
Amber: How's Dr. Webber?
Maggie: Uh he's doing okay. He's taking every insult Catherine throws at him with stride and Jackson is just closing off little by little every time he sees his mom. It's a great start to a new year.
Amber: Just give it time. I mean the woman had her spine open on a table both ways that can make anyone a little cranky plus the fact that she has to live with cancer.
Maggie: Yeah, I just…I don't know what to do.
(Amber pats Maggie's shoulder to comfort her)
LATER THAT NIGHT AT JOES
(Sam checks her phone for a response from Casey after an hour of waiting for him at the booth)
Waiter: Can I get you anything?
Sam: Yeah, I'll have onion rings to go and a bottle of beer on the side.
Waiter: You got it.
(Sam gets a text from Taryn asking 'how's it going? 😊' to which Sam responded with a middle finger emoji)
Waiter: Everything okay?
Sam: (Scoffs) He stood me up. He actually stood me up.
Waiter: (Nods) I'll add another bottle of beer. On the house.
Sam: Thanks.
MEANWHILE AT ANDREWS APARTMENT
(Amber works on her suture on her fifth banana while Andrew cooks dinner)
Andrew: How's it going there?
Amber: So far so good.
Andrew: (Grins) You know there is a skills lab at the hospital. Why doesn't Maggie let you practice there?
Amber: Because she prefers the old ways more than new, even though this way is wasting bananas. Damn it! I messed it up again.
(Amber drops the surgical supplies and slaps her hand on the table furious. Andrew takes pity and walks to her)
Andrew: Here I can help you. Give me your hands.
(Amber gives Andrew her hands as he guides her through the suture)
Andrew: The way I do it is I wrap the end around the tweezer, that way I can hold on to it. Now try it.
(Amber tries his suggestion and finds the process to be easier)
Amber: Where have you been all my life?
(Andrew grins and kisses Amber's head before attending to their dinner)
CUT TO BLACK
JANUARY 23RD
SCENE: NEURO FLOOR
(Sam tries to chart but keeps staring at Casey who's talking to Andrew. Amelia notices this and misreads the scene)
Amelia: Good morning.
Sam: (Still staring) Morning.
Amelia: I have a thrombectomy this afternoon and I want you to run ahead and book an O.R.
Sam: (Still staring) Yeah okay.
Amelia: I mean I know that you're gonna be busy with my pre ops and staring at Andrew DeLuca but I would really appreciate it.
Sam: (Turns to Amelia) What?
Amelia: I've tried to ignore it but it's kind of hard to when you've been staring at DeLuca for a few days. You still have a little bit of feelings for him and it is very much obvious
Sam: Oh no I don't I was-
Amelia: You don't have to deny it, I'm not trying to judge I have been where you are with Owen. I stared at him a lot after we broke up and the thing that I did to relieve the tension was enter an exes with benefits kind of thing with him but he and I were very much single then. And I'm afraid that when Amber Karev catches you, I will lose my best intern so here's what your gonna do.
Sam: (Tries to explain) Look I-
Amelia: Hush. I am going to assign you to the CCU for today so you can have some peace and quiet and get you head right. You gonna head there right after you schedule my surgery, got it?
Sam: Um…yeah, I got it.
Amelia: Great.
(Amelia walks away to make the change happen and Sam continues to stare at Casey who's still talking to Andrew. Behind her Amber talks to a nurse and notices the staring)
LATER THAT MORNING
(Amber and Andrew walk together to the CCU)
Andrew: You gonna be okay in the CCU? I remember my first day how boring and stale it could get. My advice is to download movies and games so you can entertain yourself.
Amber: I appreciate that but this is nothing. I'll page Pierce or Altman if something comes up and one of the interns is also assigned to it so I won't be alone and bored.
(They both enter the CCU where they see Sam sitting at the station. Andrew skids as he stops from shock, Amber looks shocked as well)
Amber: Um what-what are you doing here?
Sam: Uh Dr. Shepherd reassigned me to the CCU today. I thought you were on cardio.
Amber: I-Pierce wants me to check on her patients here.
Andrew: Um so you two will be in the CCU…together…for hours?
(Amber shakes her head at the coincidence as Sam clears her throat uncomfortably. Andrew gets a page)
Andrew: (Groans) Its Natasha I have to-
Amber: Go let me know how she is. I'll…I'll be okay.
Andrew: Okay.
(Andrew rushes out of the CCU. Amber takes a seat next to Sam as they start their shift in uncomfortable silence)
LATER AT THE ICU
(Andrew, Jo and Levi update Natasha and Garrett)
Levi: Natasha Deon, 45, hospital day 62. Neuro unchanged, cardio, she was tachycardic overnight. Pulmonary, she was placed back on the ventilator two days ago.
Garrett: She's been awake for four weeks. Why is she back on the ventilator?
Andrew: She has pneumonia, so she's on antibiotics, but her lungs have taken a pretty big hit.
Levi: GI, her tube feeds were held for the O.R. today, but the CT from overnight-
Natasha: My ostomy. It's been hurting. Am I-are you still gonna-
Jo: We won't be able to reverse your ostomy today.
Garrett: What? Why?
Jo: The CT that we got back, it showed fluid collections in your abdomen, which may be the source of your symptoms.
Garrett: What does that mean?
Jo: It means that we will do surgery today, but it will be to clean out the fluid collections.
Garrett: So, you're gonna open her back up? The wounds she's been working to heal for the last few weeks.
Jo: Unfortunately, yes.
Andrew: I'll run ahead and book it.
Levi: GU, she is on intermittent dialysis, and she is going to have another session today. Heme, she is on DVT prophylaxis.
(Andrew heads to the O.R. when he spots Maggie and Amelia by a computer)
Andrew: Hey, did you put Amber and Sam on the same shift together at the CCU?
Maggie: What? Amber and Sam are on the same shift? I did not make that happen; I wouldn't do that to Amber.
Andrew: Then who did?
(Amelia guiltily raises her hand)
Amelia: To be fair I did not know that She-Karev was also assigned. I noticed Bello staring at you and I wanted her to be in a quiet room where she could convince herself to get over you. I mean your girlfriend has made it clear that she knows more than one way to off someone and I don't want to give her ammo to kill Sam. I like the way Bello orders my coffee.
Andrew: Great so my ex and current girlfriend are in the same room because you want someone else to get you coffee. That's just great.
Maggie: Come on it might not be that bad. You and I dated and I don't hold a grudge against Amber maybe she and Sam might become friends.
Andrew: …Really?
Maggie: No, not a chance in hell it's way too weird.
Andrew: Right? I mean what would they even talk about?
Amelia: Oh, I can think of one thing.
(Maggie chuckles and Andrew glares at her)
Andrew: Mean. You are mean. I have to book an O.R. and make sure Sam and Amber don't kill each other.
LATER AT THE CCU
(Amber and Sam work silently on the charts)
Sam: So…it's gonna be Valentine's Day soon, any plans?
Amber: (Glares at Sam) Are you seriously asking me a personal question?
Sam: Well, we can either awkwardly talk or awkwardly sit in silence.
Amber: I vote the second one.
(Sam notices that Amber hasn't once looked at her)
Sam: Did I do something? Because you're acting like you did last year after Roy told everyone your secret. I mean I didn't plan on being here with you and I have tried to keep my distance from you and Andrew so if there is something I did please just-
Amber: (Turns to look at Sam) I saw you staring at Andrew this morning. I was on my way to get Natasha's latest films and I saw you looking at Andrew like he was handed to you on a silver platter.
Sam: Amber that's not what happened okay? I was-
Amber: You told me the day Catherine got her surgery that you were over him and I wanted to believe you because I wanted to have hope that me and Andrew could work and I also wanted to believe that you were a decent human being. If you still have feelings for him fine, I just need to know if your gonna-
Sam: It was Casey! I was staring at Casey this morning not Andrew.
Amber: …What?
Sam: I was staring at Casey because he and I kissed at new years and I asked him out on a date. And then…he stood me up. I've been ignoring him since then because I don't know what to say to him. I stared at him while he was talking to Andrew that's what you saw.
Amber: …I did not see this coming.
Sam: (Scoffs) You and me both.
Amber: (Sighs) Okay start from the beginning and don't leave anything at all.
Sam: What happened to awkward silence?
Amber: That was before I found out your love life has taken an unexpected turn so start talking.
Sam: …Okay. It started at Christmas…
LATER OUTSIDE THE CCU
(Andrew stands outside out of view from Sam and Amber trying to figure out what they're talking about. Levi walks by and notices)
Levi: Um do you need something from the CCU?
Andrew: What? No, I just…what do you think they're talking about in there?
Levi: Uh I would think patients?
Andrew: Right but there's been no activity in the CCU so far so what are they talking about? They've been talking for like half an hour and the nurses told me they were talking while I was in the O.R.
Levi: Oh, you think they're talking about you. I mean it's possible.
Andrew: Of course, I know it's possible I'm just asking if they actually are talking about me in there.
Levi: What does it matter?
Andrew: Would you like it if Jo and Kim talked about you behind your back?
Levi: …No I would not like that. Do you want me to go in there and ask?
Andrew: Yes! Just ask them what they're talking about and don't mention that you're doing this for me.
Levi: (Sighs) I was hoping you would say no.
(Levi reluctantly heads to the CCU)
MEANWHILE AT THE CCU
(Amber and Sam continue to talk about Casey)
Amber: Did you imply it was a date or did you outright say it was a date?
Sam: I was very clear with my intentions and he said yes right then and there.
Amber: Maybe you just left too early, I mean the standard time to indicate you've been stood up is half an hour.
Sam: I was waiting for an hour.
Amber: Oh yeah, he stood you up. Maybe he got a page or there was a trauma?
Sam: There wasn't I asked Dr. Hunt and he said no traumas came in that night. I checked the schedule and Casey left ten minutes after I did. He officially stood me up.
Amber: I'm sorry. I can only imagine how you feel.
Sam: Let me save you the trouble I feel angry, I feel humiliated and I feel like Casey should be accidently injected with a different blood type.
(Amber darkly chuckles at the irony)
Sam: What?
Amber: Nothing its just…you sound like how I felt about Roy last year. Everything you said is spot on to my emotions towards Roy after what happened although instead of injecting him with the wrong blood I would inject him with a paralytic and take out his vital organs one by one.
Sam: Really?
Amber: Yep.
Sam: Jesus. How did you get through it?
Amber: Food, alcohol and sex…mostly sex.
(Levi comes in and leans on the station in front of Amber and Sam)
Amber: Can I help you?
Levi: I just…I came back from Natasha's surgery and I thought I should inform you two since your working the case as well.
Sam: Okay, how did it go?
Levi: Not good we found a dead bowel.
Amber: What? What happened?
Levi: Dr. Grey and Dr. DeLuca aren't sure. Their running tests to find out what caused it.
Amber: God poor Natasha.
Sam: Poor Garrett.
Levi: Yeah…let's talk about something else. What are you two talking about? Maybe I can join in.
Sam: Just my sad love life.
Amber: Which I am listening to without complaint so I think I got this covered Schmitt, you can go.
Levi: Um are you sure because I can lend a hand or an ear. I've been told I'm a very good listener especially for boyfriend or ex-boyfriend troubles. I can even throw in my boyfriend troubles if you want.
Sam: Wait what? Boyfriend?
Amber: Yeah, he's dating the hot ortho fellow, Dr. Kim.
Sam: (Chuckles) Go Glasses.
Amber: (Chuckles) Yeah way to go Blood Bank.
Levi: (Smiles) Thank you…but enough about me let's talk about you two and w-w-what you were talking about before.
Amber: (Narrows eyes) …Why are you so interested in what we were talking about before?
Sam: (Catches on) Yeah Schmitt why the obsession?
Levi: (Laughs sheepishly) I'm not-I'm not obsessed. I mean you're the ones who can't answer a simple question for me and…
Amber: And who?
Sam: Yeah Glasses, and who?
Levi: Um…I just remembered I'm on the pit so I-I-I should just-
(Levi turns around and power walks away)
Amber: Tell Andrew we said hi!
(Amber and Sam laugh for a minute before they compose themselves)
Amber: Okay back to Casey. Have you asked him why he stood you up?
Sam: No, I haven't even talked to him since that night. I'm…afraid of what he might say. I mean what if I did something that repelled him? or what if he got back together with his ex? or-
Amber: Sam. If you don't ask him why he stood you up your gonna drive yourself crazy with questions like you're doing right now. Take it from me I have been stood up three times.
Sam: Why do they do that? I mean they might as well have marked the parts about us that they find ugly and that is not okay. I have good parts!
Amber: Damn right you do and so do I.
Sam: Yeah, like your boobs.
Amber: I like your ass.
Sam: (Smiles) Thank you I work at it.
(Both of them chuckle)
LATER THAT NIGHT IN THE ON CALL ROOM
(Amber goes inside to take a nap when she spots Andrew lying in the single bed. She grins and joins him kissing his neck)
Andrew: (Groggy) Hey, how was your day in the CCU?
Amber: It was fine, the most I did was defibrillate a tachycardic patient other than that it was boring.
Andrew: Even with Sam there?
Amber: Yeah, it was awkward at first but then we got to talking-not about you, the conversation was not about you at all.
Andrew: Really? You swear?
Amber: I swear on my mother's future grave.
Andrew: (Exhales) Thank God I was worried you two were comparing me in bed.
Amber: (Chuckles) Remind me never to introduce you to my exes. Are you on call?
Andrew: Yeah, you?
Amber: Yeah, I don't even have the energy to sex with you.
Andrew: Same. Why don't we just actually sleep in here?
Amber: You read my mind.
(Amber sleeps with her head on Andrew's chest as he falls asleep too)
MEANWHILE AT THE LOCKERS
(Sam sees Casey gathering his things alone and approaches him)
Casey: Hey I-
Sam: Stop me if you were in a car accident, attending to a dying loved one or bleeding to death in another hospital instead of showing up to Joe's for our date.
Casey: (Sighs) No look Sam I-
Sam: We had a date, a date that asked you to and that you said yes to. Yet despite that you let me sit in that booth for an hour like an idiot. Have you ever been stood up before? Because it feels pretty awful.
Casey: Sam I feel bad for what happened, I like you I do its just…
Sam: Just what? Are you thinking of getting back with your ex?
Casey: No, it's complicated.
Sam: How is it complicated? How could it be so complicated that you completely blow me off?
Casey: There are things about me that only a few people here know and I'm afraid…I'm afraid if you knew what it was you would look at me completely differently. I've been through that and I don't want to go through it again.
Sam: What could be so bad that you think I would just up and run for the hills Casey? I mean you hurt me badly so I think I deserve to know what caused you to do that to me.
Casey: …Your right. The reason I stood you was because…I didn't know if we could continue if you knew my past. I'm transgender Sam.
(Sam freezes with shock as she and Casey stand alone in the room)
FEBRUARY 2ND
SCENE: GREY SLOAN
(Amber and Andrew walk to the hospital after stopping for coffee)
Andrew: It's February 2nd.
Amber: Yeah, I know, otherwise known as Groundhog Day. What about it? Are you looking to adopt a groundhog?
Andrew: (Chuckles) No I'm just saying that Valentine's Day is pretty close and I wanted to ask what you want to do?
Amber: Valetine's day otherwise known as the day that flowers and chocolate companies have an excuse to stay open. I plan on spending it like I do any other day. At home in my pj's watching Netflix. How about you?
Andrew: Well, I was planning on making reservations for a fancy restaurant but seeing how much you love the holiday I'm gonna rethink it.
Amber: It isn't even a holiday. I mean the schools are open and we still work on that day why do couples see it any different than an average day?
Andrew: I don't know, why don't we ask them.
Amber: I don't want flowers or chocolates or fancy restaurants. As long as I'm with you it'll be a good day regardless of the fake holiday.
Andrew: (Grins) You know that almost sounded romantic.
Amber: Shut up.
(Andrew chuckles as they walk into the building holding hands)
LATER AT THE ICU
(Meredith, Andrew, and Amber stand by to update Garrett and Natasha while Levi goes through the routine)
Levi: Natasha Deon, 45, hospital day 73. Neuro-
Garrett: I don't understand what's happening. It feels like every step forward she makes; she takes two steps back.
Natasha: It's February 2nd. Groundhog Day. That's me. I feel like I keep living the same day... (Gulps) over and over.
Garrett: Okay, Bill Murray. Let the doctors tell us what's going on.
Andrew: The reason we think she had the dead bowel is that she's-
(Natasha passes out and her monitors blare)
Andrew: Natasha? Okay, she's coding! I'm gonna start compressions!
Meredith: Crack open the crash cart and let's push one of atropine and one of epi.
(Amber moves the crash cart next to the bed)
Garrett: Natasha!
Andrew: Schmitt, get him out of here.
Garrett: (As he's forced outside) Natasha, please! I need you!
Meredith: She probably threw a PE, let's get an echo in here and start a heparin drip.
Amber: I'm on it and I'll page Pierce.
(Amber runs out to do so)
FEBRUARY 13TH
(Levi reads Natasha's chart while Andrew and Meredith are outside with Garrett while Sam charts at the station)
Levi: Natasha Deon, 45, hospital day 84. Overnight, she continued...
Garrett: Just tell me. Please.
Meredith: Well, when she had her pulmonary embolism days ago, it-it-it weakened her heart and her lungs.
Andrew: And since then, her kidneys have worsened, as well. I'm sorry.
Garrett: Why? Why?
Meredith: I just-I-Garrett, I-
Garrett: (Voice breaking) Why is this happening to us?
Meredith: I don't have an answer for that-
Garrett: Why is this happening to us? She was getting better. After all we went through.
(Sam looks up as Garrett hyperventilates and falls on his knees and groans in emotional pain)
Andrew: Garrett?
Meredith: Garrett.
(Meredith crouaches down to calm down Garrett)
Garrett: If she dies, I die. If she dies, I die. If she dies, I die.
Meredith: Garrett. Listen to me. Look at me, please. Look at me. Look at me. I'm here. Look at me, please. Listen to me. You won't die. I know it feels like that right now but trust me you won't die. You have to fight for her. She's in there fighting for you. You don't get to give up. So, part of that fight is you're gonna go take a walk, you're gonna take a shower, and you're gonna get a meal. We will be here, fighting to keep her alive. And you are gonna go fight to keep yourself alive. Okay? Come on.
(Garret calms down and gets up with a nurse leading him out. Andrew looks at Sam who wipes a single tear from her eye before leaving the floor)
LATER AT THE DOCTORS LOUNGE
(Amber sits on the table doing charts when Sam comes in and closes the door behind her)
Sam: I need to talk to you.
(Amber looks up from her laptop in confusion)
Sam: I know that it's a cruel irony to talk to you especially concerning my love life but there is literally no one else in the hospital who can help me with this. What I'm gonna ask is not a personal attack on you it's a genuine question that I believe will help me with this dilemma I'm having. So, I want to ask you something and I want you to give me an honest answer.
Amber: Um okay.
(Sam exhales and sits next to Amber)
Sam: How-How did you know that you were pan? More specifically how did you know you were sexually and romantically attracted to…trans people?
Amber: Um wow. I don't know I guess…I always knew that I saw people for their hearts and not their bodies. I thought I was bi for a while until I went to college and then I realized I was attracted to people and not just men and women. The first trans person I dated was Emmanuel, she was a journalism major and I met her in my intro to bio course. She was funny, cute, politically open minded and I didn't ignore her like all our classmates did. She was the first trans person I dated and…the one who made me realize that I wasn't bi, I was pan.
Sam: What did you do when you found out she was trans? Did you feel weird at first?
Amber: Of course, I did, I was questioning how I can be attracted to people like Emmanuel. But then the weird subsided and I realized then that I was attracted to her for her soul and personality not for her sex and gender.
Sam: So…if your attracted to a trans person that makes you pan?
Amber: Not necessarily. Trans men and women identify themselves as men and women and if you identify them that as well it can still mean that your straight. If you still see that person for the gender that they identify themselves as and nothing more than that doesn't make you pan or gay. It just makes you attracted to that man like how you've been attracted to men before. There was a study at Northwestern about men interested in trans women, over 50% of them identify themselves as straight.
Sam: Really?
Amber: Yes. In this day and age, it is possible to be attracted to a trans person and still identify as straight. Why are you asking me this?
Sam: Um…I found out something pretty shocking about um…this guy I like and it's got my head all messed up.
Amber: Wait a minute are we talking about-
Sam: Let's just assume it's an entirely different person, okay? I found out he was trans and I freaked out a little afterwards but then…then I was still attracted to him and it's been messing with my head ever since.
Amber: (Sighs) Sam, its…its labels like these that prevent cisgender people from romantically being involved with trans people thinking they identify as gay but that's not true. The only person who can identify you is you. Let me ask you something, those feelings you felt for Casey before he told you the truth about him, are they still there?
Sam: (Pondering) …Thank you, this has really helped me.
(Sam gets up and leaves)
Amber: That's what I'm here for.
LATER IN THE ON CALL ROOM
(Sam walks inside the room and Casey wakes up from his nap)
Casey: (Groggy) What are you-
Sam: What you said to me that day was shocking. It made me question myself and what happened to you in the past to make you stand me up instead of being honest with me. I…I can't even begin to imagine what you've been through to make you hurt people before they hurt you.
Casey: (Stands up) Sam, you ignored me for two weeks after I told you I think you've made your feelings toward me very clear.
Sam: I wasn't ignoring you I was trying to get my head straightened out and find out what would make me attracted to a trans man and today when I saw Garrett crying over Natasha, I realized…I realized that life is too short to stop yourself from being happy. What you told me shook me at first but then my feelings for you before then returned and it…it scared me. I like men I have always liked men and my feelings for you made me question that but now I know that nothing has changed. I like you like I have liked any other man in the past. Your handsome and sweet and funny and I know that you have options but I'm hoping that maybe just maybe I can be-
(Casey stops Sam with a kiss catching her by surprise. He pulls back and she stares at him)
Sam: Did you kiss me to shut me up or-
Casey: No definitely not.
Sam: Okay good.
(Sam and Casey resume kissing in the room)
FEBRUARY 14TH
(Alex, Andrew, Levi, and the chiefs gather around Natasha's room)
Alex: Dr. Schmitt said you had something you want to discuss with us?
Garrett: We've been in this hospital now for over three months. Since then, Natasha's only gotten worse. And I know you're the best doctors we could get because I tried to find better ones, but I couldn't. No offense.
Natasha: (Weakly) Take me off the vent. I can't eat. I can't breathe. I'm dying.
Maggie: There are other options. There's home ventilator care. There's long-term acute care. There's skilled nursing facilities.
Meredith: They know. They've been consulting palliative care doctors.
Natasha: You all have done everything you can to give me as much time as possible. We may not have gotten that wedding under the stars, but... (Garrett sobs) you gave us the rest of our lives together. Take me off. Please. Please.
Alex: We need you to give verbal consent as her power of attorney.
Garrett: (Voice Breaking) I consent.
Meredith: So, once I shut the machine off, I don't know how much time you'll have, so we will give you meds to keep you comfortable. Are you ready?
Garrett: Yeah.
Meredith: Okay.
(Meredith turns off the vent causing Natasha to cough. Garrett cries as he and Natasha hold each other. They all leave to give them privacy)
LATER THAT NIGHT IN THE LOCKERS
(Andrew walks inside and sees Amber in her Ramones t shirt and jeans. He presents her with red roses)
Amber: I thought we agreed no Valentine's Day.
Andrew: No, you agreed on it I went along so I don't look like an idiot but…things changed. I am going to give you these flowers and your gonna take them and later I'm gonna take you out to a romantic dinner like any other boyfriend on valentine's day.
Amber: (Raises eyebrow)
Andrew: What?
Amber: You just called yourself my boyfriend. Are we boyfriend and girlfriend now?
Andrew: I guess it depends if you want to be. Do you?
Amber: (Smiles) Yeah, I do. I heard about Natasha, I'm so sorry.
Andrew: Yeah, me too.
(Amber takes the roses and sniffs them. Sam walks out of the bathroom in a red spaghetti strap dress)
Sam: Hi. Nice flowers.
Amber: Thanks. You look nice.
Sam: Oh thanks.
Andrew: Date tonight?
Sam: (Chuckles) Yeah.
Casey: You ready to go?
(Andrew and Amber turn and see Casey in the doorway wearing a suit)
Casey: Wow you look…wow.
Sam: (Grins) Thanks so do you. Okay let's go. Happy Valentine's Day.
Amber: Happy Valentine's Day.
(Sam and Casey leave the room. Andrew looks at Amber in confusion)
Andrew: W-When did that-
Amber: I'll explain later.
Andrew: Okay.
(Jo stands by the door)
Jo: Hey, are you guys free?
Amber: Um yeah why?
Jo: Come to Natasha's room and bring your phones.
(Amber and Andrew follow Jo)
LATER IN THE ICU
(Everyone gathers around Natasha's bed. Jo puts Natasha's wedding dress on top of her. Garrett walks inside holding her ring with a minister behind him)
Garrett: Your doctors wanted to make sure we got our wedding under the stars.
(The lights are turned off and everyone holds up their tablet or phones with the screen showing stars)
Meredith: Garrett asked me to read the vows that you wrote before the accident. "Garrett, the moment I met you, I knew I would spend the rest of my life with you. Before you, I never met anyone I could be in the same room with longer than a few hours. I waited my whole life to meet you. I gave up thinking I ever would."
(Amber holds Andrew's hand)
Meredith: "But here we are. Better late than never, right? Now that I found you, it all makes sense. Everything that was once hard feels easy now that you are in my life. And everything that was once easy is now sublime."
(Amber leans her head on Andrew's shoulder)
MEANWHILE AT ALTURA
(Sam moans as she eats the crème brulee)
Sam: I never thought crème brulee could taste so good.
Casey: (Chuckles) Yeah, I thought you might like this place.
Sam: How did you even find a spot at this place today of all days?
Casey: I served with the owner's son in the air force and he owes me a favor so.
Sam: Did you save his life?
Casey: Nope I snuck in chocolates during training. He would've passed out from low blood sugar if it wasn't for me.
Sam: Oh, okay not as cool but still.
(Casey chuckles as they enjoy their date)
LATER AT THE ICU
(The minister is about to marry Garrett and Natasha)
Chaplain: Do you, Garrett, take this woman to be your wife?
Garrett: I do.
Chaplain: And do you, Natasha, take this man to be your husband?
(Natasha grunts and mouths I do)
Chaplain: By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife.
(Garrett chuckles and kisses Natasha who tries to say something)
Garrett: Don't, don't I know. Thank you. (Voice breaking) Thank you for marrying me.
(Garrett cries softly as he holds Natasha who passes. They all leave the room. Amber meets with Andrew outside the room)
Andrew: Come with me.
(Andrew hold Amber's hand and leads her to the roof where there's pizza on a table with champagne on ice and plastic cups)
Amber: I thought you were taking me out to dinner.
Andrew: I am.
(Andrew takes off his jacket and wraps it around Amber)
Amber: Couldn't find a reservation huh?
Andrew: Apparently you have to make a reservation before Valentine's Day so I had to make do. I hope this is okay.
Amber: No, its…its perfect.
(Andrew grins and cracks open the champagne pouring them each a cup)
Andrew: A toast. To Garrett and Natasha.
Amber: To Garrett and Natasha.
(They clink their cups and drink. Amber looks at the view)
Amber: It's beautiful.
Andrew: Yeah…you are.
(Amber smiles and pulls Andrew's face to kiss him. They continue kissing celebrating Valentine's Day)