Disclaimer: I do not own the Gundam Pilots or anything else that is
affiliated with them. Pretty much anything you recognize. =) I do own the
plot. The names I use that don't seem familiar, you can give the credit to
my best friends. These were the names of my friends who just came off of
the top of my head.
~*~Chapter 4~*~
A Call for Help
"......Go to sleep Dou, you've had a hard day and you still deserve a well needed rest." Hilde softly moved Dou's bangs out of his eyes and watched his as he fell asleep on her lap. She began to stroke his hair as a mother would a frightened child. Soon Dou was asleep, covered by a blanket that Hilde had asked a passing nurse for. "I have a feeling this isn't going to be the last time we all see the inside of this hospital, of this room. I don't think it'll be this minor of a problem either. I just hope I'm wrong."
~*~
Hilde awoke to the sound of a wailing siren. She didn't remember where she was at first, that was until she heard a steady beep sounding in front of her. It came back to her quickly, they were in the hospital, they'd called an ambulance to get Heero. He'd been throwing up and was having troubles breathing. He'd also had a high fever and something else was wrong, something that caused him great pain, but no one knew what it was. She spotted Heero, still sleeping, still hooked up to the numerous machines. Hilde looked down, only to find Dou still asleep on her lap. His face was regaining a healthy color.
"Oh man, talk about uncomfortable," the young girl stretched quietly and yawned. She looked out the window and saw the sun setting on the horizen. "Dusk already?" Hilde looked down at her watch, it was 6:00 in the evening. Wow, she'd slept nearly all day! No wonder she was so stiff and sore. Dou began to stir in his sleep, and Hilde place her hand on his arm, whispering, "It's okay Dou, I'm right here. Nothing's going to hurt you. Shhhhh. Nothing's gonna hurt you." Dou settled down once more and fell into a peaceful sleep.
Dr. McGowan entered the room, making sure to be quiet so as not to wake anyone. He spotted Hilde and headed over toward her. "Awake are we?"
"Ya, but you guys should try a new furniture store, these things are as hard as a rock." The doctor only grinned at her and chuckled to himself.
"I know, but the color goes so well with the room."
"I think they do special requests," retorted Hilde, holding Dou's head as she slipped out from under him. "Can you get me that pillow from the other bed or do you need it?"
"Nope."
Hilde took the pillow from the doctor and place it under Dou's head. He slept through it all, not knowing the difference. Hilde continued to stretch her muscles as the doctor only shook his head and went to check on Heero.
"How's he doing, Dr. McGowen?" Hilde peered over his shoulder. He only looked back at her and grinned.
"He's improving nicely, he should be waking up in a few hours. His heart beat's grown stronger and the color's coming back to his face. Those are just a few of his improvements. He can probably start breathing on his own, but we don't want to push it too far, he still needs rest." The doctor gave her a curt nod and left the room.
Hilde walked over to Heero's bedside and sat next to him. He was sleeping soundly and she had to admit he was looking so much better. Standing up, she brushed back his bangs and placed her lips on his forehead once again. His fever was gone, a very good sign. Heero flinched, but he didn't wake up, sleep kept its claim on him. That was fine, he needed to rest.
Walking out of the room she spotted the same paramedic who had talked to them. Cori was it? Almost instantly Cori spotted Hilde and walked over to her.
"Hey, how're things goin' with your friend? Chris tells me he's improving rapidly." Cori greeted her with a tired smile.
"It's going great, the guys are sleeping. You just get off of shift?" Hilde tried to get a conversation going so she wouldn't get bored. Hospitals have absolutely nothing for entertainment.
"Ya, you guys were probably the worst case we brought in. The only one that came close was a car crash, the driver lost control and ran into a ditch. He only had a broken arm, nothing major. You look like your hungry, wanna come to the cafeteria and grab a bite to eat with me?" Hilde accepted the offer readily, she hadn't eaten since breakfast and she was strangly hungry. Besides, Cori only looked a couple of years older than her and she seemed really nice. It would give her someting to do.
The two new found friends wondered down the hall to the small food court. Hilde and Cori each ordered a bottle of water and a salad. They took a table in the corner and began to chat. Hilde found out that her name was Cori Brazzle and she was a 22 year old single mother. She had a son, he was a freshman in high school and an honors student. Surprisingly he attended the same school Hilde just graduated from, she'd graduated the year before. Cori moved from Skyeview to Valley Ridge two years ago and they only lived four blocks from Hilde and Dou. Hilde had a feeling they were going to get to be really good friends. She and Cori shared a lot of the same views on life and were becoming good friends quickly.
"I'll have to talk Dou into coming to visit. We'll also have to wait for Heero to get better, Dou's pretty protective of him and he'd probably kill me if I mentioned that we should visit and take Heero with us." Hilde finished her bottle of water. "He wouldn't mind much though if you and Benjamin came over for a visit."
"Well, I guess I could always just say I was coming over to check on Heero, it'd give Ben a reason to come with. I swear, that kid always has to have a reason for everything." Cori and Hilde laughed as Cori told her how stubborn Ben was and their recent "surprise" trip. Just so she didn't ruin the surprise, Cori literally had to drag her son kicking and screaming to the car and tie him to the seat just so he wouldn't jump out.
"Oh no, Dou's probably up by now," Hilde glanced at her watch, "he'll be wondering where on Earth I went off to." The young teen dumped her garbage in the nearest trash can and came back to grab her water bottle.
"Ben's probably waitin' and wondering where his mom's at." Cori thought outloud.
"Well, it was fun having this little converstion," Hilde smiled. "You'll have to stop by the house sometime."
"I'll be sure to do that." Cori smiled and left after giving Hilde one last goodbye.
Hilde bought another bottle of water for Dou and headed back the room after stopping quickly by the water fountain to refill her's. Sure enough when Hilde reached the room there was Dou awake and sitting by Heero's bedside. He didn't even notice that she'd returned until she placed her hand on his right shoulder. He turned to face her.
"Where ya been?" He allowed himself a slight smile.
"I went to grab something to eat with the paramedic, Cori. The one that asked you the questions about Heero." Wrapping her arms around his shoulders, she bent down and kissed him on his cheek. He only returned his attention back to his brother. "Dou?"
Dou looked back into her eyes, still only half awake, "Hm?"
"He's going to be okay, I've already talked to the doctor. He should be waking up in a little while, but are you going to be okay?"
Dou thought for a moment, unsure of how he should answer. "I-I don't know. I'm not quite sure what you're asking."
"I know Heero's like a brother to you. And seeing him like this is practically killing you, I can see it in your eyes. You're wearing yourself out."
A heavy sigh escaped his lips, "I just want things to be normal. I just want to forget the war, forget about nearly killing ourselves because a couple of groups of people couldn't settle a little dispute that escalated to the need to take other's lives. We should have been going to school, having normal lives, just worring about our friends and homework, but instead we were worring about living from one minute to the next, trying to hide ourselves so we wouldn't get caught or killed. I hated having to take the lives of so many, just so I could live an extra day. Sure, I may never have met the guys, but if we were supposed to be friends, we would have found each other. I just hate it that for these few good things to exist, we had to pay such a price. Thousands upon thousands of people died. Quite a few weren't soldiers either, they were innocent people. I just wish things could be normal Hilde, I just want things to be normal for all of us so we can get on with our lives and actually have a life. Pretty much everyone else has, but I can't stand to see that Heero, who's suffered more than the rest of us, still can't have a life." He let his head drop to his chest, his eyes stinging in the threat of oncoming tears. Dou quickly blinked them back.
Hilde had been listening to Dou, her heart crying out to him. But she had quickly glanced at Heero's sleeping form. He wasn't sleeping any longer. He'd heard all Dou had to say, and an appreciative glimmer of hope shimmered in his deep blue eyes. "Well, why don't you tell your brother that then?" Hilde let a smile crease her lips.
"I would, and I will if he ever wakes up anytime soon." Dou still let his head hang, not really catching the hint of mischief in Hildes voice.
"I didn't know you cared so much Dou," a voice whispered, amusement playing in the words.
Dou's head shot up, his eyes catching sight of his awakened brother. He sat there in astonishment at the grin that appeared on his face, he'd heard Dou's conversation with Hilde. Dou let out a laugh, wondering why he didn't catch onto Hilde sooner.
"You heard all of that, didn't you you little eavesdropper," Dou should have known better. Heero only nodded his head in acknowledgement.
"You mean that?" he gave Dou an inquisitive glance as he whispered the question.
"You kidding? What make's you think I would say something like that about you?" Dou smiled showing he was only joking, but yes, he meant every word he spoke.
"Thanks Dou," his brother called from the bed.
"Anytime bro," Just then Dr. McGowen came in a smile upon his face after he saw that Heero was awake.
"And how are we all doing this evening?" He sounded way too cheery for Heero's liking.
"I hate these beds and I don't need the help of these machines any more," he spoke with loathing in his voice for being hooked up to the machines in the first place.
"Well, looks like Heero's back," Dou only shook his head and started to laugh. When Dou looked back at his brother, he had a smug look on his face and Dou just couldn't help but burst out in laughter at his exspresion. Hilde joined in as the she couldn't restrain herself any longer.
"Looks like we'll be out of here in no time," Hilde predicted at Heero's sudden change of mood.
"Hey, doc. A few words of advice. You might want to disconnect all of those machines and take him off the respirator, or he will do it himself. Even I can't stop him for doing that." Dou looked over at his brother who looked at the doctor, almost daring him to think Dou was wrong.
"Well, let's make a deal. I get rid of all of these machines and you stay in that bed and don't try and escape. I seriously doubt Cori really wants to haul you in again, especially now thats she's off shift." Dr. McGowen returned Heero's look, just daring him to refuse.
"Fine," was all he had to say. Reluctance was evindent.
"Wow, I haven't seen a challenge like that since Heero met Trowa." Dou shook his head in amazement.
Heero still wasn't as stubborn as he'd been, but he wasn't going to settle for less than he wanted. He seriously didn't like help from others, but he allowed it from his friends. He absolutely refused to accept help from stupid pieces of scrap metal when he didn't need it. He sat quietly and cooperated as he let the doctor remove the wires and tubes from his body. The doctor left the I.V. in saying that he was still dehydrated and it would have to stay in unless he wanted to start drinking a lot of water. Heero's stomache reminded him that he wasn't quite ready to ingest much right now so he didn't mind the I.V. His stomache was the reason he was here in the first place.
"There, finished. Can I get any of you anything else?" Dr. McGowen asked moving the last pieces of equipment out of the way.
Heero, feeling better now that he could breathe on his own and didn't feel like a science experiment was about to reply "no", but again he had to reconsider. His muscles were extremely sore from vomiting and whatever else happened to him back at Dou's. "A couple of aspirin would be welcome."
"I'll be back in a minute with them." And with that Dr. McGowen left the room.
"Well, how you feelin' amigo?" Dou piped up, trying to get him to talk.
Heero looked at him with a questioning look in his eyes and his eyebrow raise as a way of saying, "Are you kidding me?"
Dou only laughed. He was glad to see his brother was improving. He didn't look as bad he had before. He'd gotten a lot of sleep, and he looked like he was quite a bit healthier than when he first called Dou.
The doctor returned with two small white pills and a small glass of water. Heero took them warily, but swallowed them none the less and took only a sip of water. He immediately regretted it, his stomache started to churn again. He closed his eyes and concentrated, determined not to start vomiting again. He felt Dou rest his hand on his, but didn't open his eyes, he'd almost taken full control of his body again. Slowly he opened his eyes to see three worried faces looking at him.
"I'm fine," he spoke quietly, "just not used to drinking anything yet." Dou and Hilde nodded, the doctor still worried. "When can I leave?" came the question he could no longer stop himself from asking.
"Hmm, I guess as soon as you're ready. Though unless you plan on trying to get liquids and possibly some food into you as soon as you get out of here, I'd recommend staying for a little while longer." He emphisized the last half.
"But if he can't keep anything down, what's he supposed to eat?" Hilde questioned.
"You can start him off on crackers and water, or something like 7UP, but make sure you add ice to it and shake it up or something to get rid of the fizz. This won't upset his stomache, and it will keep him fed and hydrated." Then directing the last portion to Heero, "Be sure to start off slow, little bits and drinks at a time, then you can increase, slowly, your intake of food and liquids. Whenever you feel comfortable, you can move onto other foods and beverages. I just wouldn't start off with carbonated soda, it could upset your stomache again. Now all you need is bed rest and relaxation to let your body heal."
Heero nodded, and began to sit up.
"Where do you think you're goin buddy?" Dou looked at him in confusion.
"Leaving, what else does it look like?" Heero said, not even bothering to look at him.
"No your not," placing a hand on his shoulder, Dou layed Heero back down against the pillow.
"Why not? You heard him," he sounded like a little boy who was just denied something by his parents, "he said I could, just as soon as I was ready. I'm ready, let's go." Heero tried to rise once more, but Dou made him lay back down.
"Do you seriously want to see the inside of this place again that fast? You're gonna wait here till this I.V. is done at least."
"But....," he was cut off.
"No buts about it. You are waiting and you're not leaving a minute sooner." Dou crossed his arms across his chest and stood his ground. He looked back at Hilde, for she had collapsed to the floor in giggles.
The two were so comical, Hilde just couldn't stop herself. Heero was defeated, he looked like a little kid, pleading with his parent to give him what he wants. Heero and Dou were just kids, she realized. At heart, they would always be just like kids, childhood friends, and partners in crime. She envied them, starting off as two strangers and ending up as brothers. She hadn't had a friend like that since she was little. Her friend had been killed, caught in the crossfire between the Alliance and OZ when they were playing at the park. Her name was Rachel. Hilde shook the thoughts from her mind and took Dou's hand that he'd offered her and stood up. Heero sat smiling from his lying down position as Hilde finished her giggling.
After five more minutes of waiting, Dou was finally satisfied and let Heero rise out of the bed and get ready to leave. Dou stood right by his side as he got down from the bed, and it was a good thing because Heero's legs weren't strong enough at that point to hold himself up. Dou caught him and helped his brother out of the hospital and off to the car.
"Hilde, can you stay here with him a minute, I need to finish filling out the forms." Dou looked in the passenger side window as soon as he was done helping Heero into the back. Hilde said she would, but Dou would have to hurry because they still needed to stop by the store on the way home. Dou left and returned six minutes later and jumped into the car.
"Get everything done?" Hilde asked, turning onto main street.
"Yep, hey buddy, you feeling okay back there?"
"Stop fussing over me Dou, I'm just fine," Heero chided.
"Isn't that what you practically said last time?" Dou reminded.
"C'mon guys, we're almost there, Mrs. Felker's grocery is just on the next block. Hey, you guys stay in here," Hilde called over her shoulder as she pulling into the nearest parking space, "you guys favor anything in particular? I should probably get some more cookie dough, knowing you Dou you've cleaned out the whole batch of cookies." She gave Dou a devilish grin as he returned it with an innocent look. Hilde knew him better though, he was guilty as charged. "This way when your feelin' better Heero you can have some of the cookies, as long as your brother can keep his hands off of them long enough."
"Uh, I'm hurt, I'm really hurt Hilde," he placed his hands over his heart in a dramatic gesture, "You really think I would do something like that to my brother."
"Sure you would Dou," Heero added from the backseat.
"Traitor."
"Better believe it."
"Okay guys, I'll be right back ." Hilde headed off into the store. She grabbed a basket and headed straight back to the pop and grabbed two liters of 7UP, then she headed back to the frozen food isle and picked up a couple of buckets of cookie dough, suger and chocolate chip. Hilde hesitated a moment, trying to think if she forgot about anything. They already had some crackers at home, and she didn't recall anything else, so she headed straight for the checkout lane.
"Hey Hilde, how're things going," a guy by the name of Thomas Browning greeted.
"Hey Tom, things've been rough, to say the least."
"What happened?" Tom's voice was filled with concern. He was a good friend and he was always ready to help with any problems Hilde and Dou had.
"Sorry, but I've got to get the guys home. I'll have to tell you about it later."
"That's $7.59, what do you mean guys?" Tom finished scanning the last of the items and placed them in plastic bags.
"Ya, we've got a visitor. Name's Heero, one of Dou's buddies. We just got back from the hospital, long story, I'll have to get back to you on that one. Remind me next time I have the time to spare." Hilde grabbed her bags.
"Hope everything's okay, take care Hilde. Tell Dou I said hi," Tom called as Hilde walked out of the store.
She headed back to the car only to find that the two were deep in conversation and didn't even notice her. Just as she was about to get to the door, Heero pointed out to Dou that Hilde was back and she had her hands full. Dou scrambled out of the car immediately after grabbing the keys and went around to unlock the trunk.
"Sorry Hild, guess I just got a little into the conversation. I finally got Heero to talk to me about the dream he had on the plane. That's what made it such a tiring trip." He helped his girlfriend load the rest of the few groceries she'd boughtten. He was sure not to reveal too much. Heero still didn't really want to talk about it that openly.
"Let me guess, you're still not gonna tell me what happened or what any part of his dream was about." She gave him a reluctant glance.
"Sorry, but I've...," Hilde held up her hand to silence him.
"I understand, and I respect your brother's need for privacy. I just hope one day I can be told instead of standing in the dark the entire time. Just be sure to tell him, though, I can listen if he can't talk to you at the moment and I don't judge, critisize, or give up if someone comes to me with a problem. I'm always willing to help. Besides, if I told him that I'd just end up embarrassing him or something." Hilde let herself giggle at the last thought of actually embarrassing a guy like Heero.
"I will, and thanks for understanding Hilde." The couple embraced in a short hug, then each got in on their respected sides and they pulled out of the parking space and down the road to the house.
"Hope you guys didn't get bored while I was gone," Hilde called over her shoulder, turning onto Morgan St.
"Ya, actually we did. Geeze, what'd you do, sit in there and gossip with the cashier for an hour?" Dou asked, sarcasim dripping from his words.
Hilde instantly let go of the wheel with her right hand and slapped Dou in the arm, a smile stretching across her face. "Yep, was talking to Tom. He says hi."
"Abuse! See man, this is what I was telling you about. Never get into a relationship with a girl like Hilde. Once you get in, you can't get out. Sure they seem nice, but they'll do nothing but abuse." Dou whispered back to Heero loud enough for Hilde to hear.
*Whack* Hilde hit him in the arm again, this time harder.
"Your mouth always did get you in trouble," reminded his brother from the back seat. He chuckled as he watched Dou rub his sore arm. "What was your last punishment for running your mouth."
Dou's jaw dropped, he'd forgotten about it. "Are you nuts?! Are you trying to get me in more trouble?! Your supposed to be on my side!"
"That's right, Dou. You're still under punishment." Hilde pulled into the drive. "Thanks for the reminder Heero."
Hilde turned off the ignition, grabbed the keys, and and went to unlock the trunk.
"You ungrateful little traitor! What'd you do that for man? She'd forgotten!" Dou scowled at Heero, but he only laughed. He stopped immediatly, the aspirin hadn't kicked in yet. He closed his eyes and wrapped his arms around his stomache, curling up to try and reduce the pain. Dou had gotten out and he opened the door quickly when he saw his hombre hunched over with his arms wrapped around his mid-section. "Heero, you okay? What happened?"
"I'm.....I'm all right Dou. Doctor's medicine doesn't work worth anything, though." Heero opened his eyes and leaned back against the seat. He'd already taken his seat belt off.
"Look, let's just get you into bed, you need to rest. We don't want to push it. I shouldn't have been making you laugh in the first place, c'mon." He helped Heero out of the car and put his arm around his shoulder so that Heero would be able to use Dou to support himself.
Hilde was just returning from the house after dropping off the groceries and upon seeing the two, she frowned. Heero still wasn't well and he needed to lay down and rest. She only wondered why he looked as though he were uncomfortable.
"Go ahead and take him to his room, I'll lock up the car and be in there in a minute." Dou nodded and left Hilde to take care of things while he took care of his brother. When Hilde arrived back in the house she strolled down the hall to Heero's room. The door was closed and Hilde could hear voices talking softly on the other side. She wanted to know what was going on, should she listen? But then Dou and Heero wouldn't trust her. She knocked softly on the door so as not to give into her temptation of listening in on their conversation and to let them know she was there.
"Come on in Hilde." Dou beckoned.
Hilde entered, a smile upon her face. Heero was already laying down, Dou sitting on the edge of his bed. The boys looked at her and suddenly she was ashamed for even THINKING about listening in on their conversation. *sometimes you just really have to hate your conscience* Shaking her head, she remembered what she was going to ask them. "Would you like to try and eat something Heero?"
He gave her a wary look, turned to Dou who shook his head, then replied, "I'll try."
"Okay. Oh Dou, you still have to call Quatre back. Trowa also called while you were asleep, just to talk he said, so I didn't wake you up. If you want to call now, I can bring in the vid-phone. I'm sure the others would love to see you and talk to you again Heero." Hilde watched a thoughtful look cross Heero's face, but it was soon gone.
"Sounds like fun, you up to it?" Dou glanced at his brother.
Heero only rolled his eyes. "You both seriously have to stop fussing over me so much. It's not like I'm dying or anything. I can still take care of myself. But, I think it would be welcome to talk to them again." He added the last part as he sat up slowly, careful not to aggitate his already sore muscles.
"I'll be right back then." With that Hilde left the room.
"Dou, do you think she heard?" Heero questioned. He'd been telling Dou the rest of his dream. He didn't want Hilde to know, not just yet. "You didn't tell her anything when you were helping her put the stuff in the back of the car, did you?"
"No, I tried to apologize for not being able to and she cut me off. She just wants you to know, she respects your privacy, and only hopes one day she can know too. She also says to tell you, she's a good listener, I've learned that from experience, and she doesn't judge or anything. She'd probably be a better help to you if you have a problem then I would be."
"Thanks Dou."
"Anytime. Hey, after we get done callin' the guys, I've still gotta call your girlfriend." At mentioning Relena as his girlfriend, Dou's only reply was a glare.
Heero didn't know why he minded Dou saying that, he just did.
"Lighten up, but hey, you wanna call Relena? I can always do it at work or somethin' tomorrow if you're tryin' to avoid her."
"What gives you the idea I'm trying to avoid her?" Heero didn't mean to give him that impression.
"Well, you haven't spoken to anyone in over a year now. That was 'till you called me. I don't think Relena even knew where to send your invitation to."
"Invitation?"
"Oy! Man, you shouldn't hide yourself from the world, you miss out on a lot. Ya, Relena sent out an invitation to each of us. She said she was trying to get all the pilots back together again since she seemed to miss us after the war was over. She said it'd be a good chance to catch up on each other's lives, and just relax for about a week with old friends. It's from, what were the dates, oh ya December 1st to December 7th."
"I don't think I can go Dou," he cast his glance toward the floor, "I really don't think I can go."
"What!?! Why would you say a thing like that? If you think Relena's mad at you or something, then.....,"
Heero suddenly cut him off with a wave of his hand. Should he tell Dou? Could he tell Dou? He was confused and he still wanted the answers. He just didn't know if he could tell him.
"Look, I can see you don't really want to talk about this with me buddy. Maybe you could try talking to Hilde. If it deals with girls, Hilde's probably one of the best to talk to. She could probably help you out better than I could. I can ask Hilde if you want."
"Ask me what?" Hilde stood outside the door, a tray of crackers and flat soda for Heero and the vid-phone for Dou.
"Well, do ya wanna buddy?"
Heero was hesitant, almost afraid to answer. If he said yes, maybe Hilde could help him. But what if Dou was wrong, what if Hilde thought it was just a stupid question or something. Well, if he said no, he'd probably hurt Hilde and she was only trying to help.
"Heero?" Dou called again.
He wasn't getting anywhere keeping the questions to himself. He had to go for it or forget it. He knew he wasn't going to forget it, and he wanted answers desperately. He made up his mind, Dou even told him Hilde was probably the better pick when asking for help, especially if it concerned someone like Relena. He was going to ask for help. It was now or never. He nodded quickly before he changed his mind.
"Okay," Dou was glad that Heero was at least going to get some help, even if Dou couldn't give the advice to him.
"Hey, uh ................. Dou. Could I...........talk to you.......... in the hall?" Hilde knew Heero was extremely uncomfortable and tried to make it easier on him.
"Sure. Hey I'll be back in a moment, don't do anything to yourself." Dou glanced back unsure as he left, Hilde dragging him by the arm.
"What's wrong," she spoke softly as she closed the young man's door.
"I-I don't know. Heero's really trying to avoid talking about Relena, he's tryin' to tell me he's not gonna accept the invitation. He's got a lot of questions and he's really confused, I can tell just by the way the guys acting. He won't talk to me, but I told him that you'd offered your help, and that you were probably better to talk to than me. Especially if it's gonna deal with girl's feelings. I gave up on the female race and tryin' to understand you all a long time ago." At that last comment, Dou got a slight slap on the arm. It was just a playful slap. "But, anyway he needs to talk to someone and I just offered to ask you to help him and that's what he'd said yes about."
Hilde thought for a moment, glad that Heero knew he could talk to her and that she could be of some help. "All right, but you better make your calls first. It'll probably help him to relax."
"Just what to tell the guys if they ask if he's comin' or not to Relena's."
"Cover up for him. I don't know, joke around like Heero's got all these dates with a lot of other girls and he's not sure if he can fit it into his "busy" schedual. I'd say, just try and avoid the subject for now." Hilde placed her arms on his shoulders and let herself be drawn into a warm embrace by Dou. The two kissed for a moment, then Hilde left him to have privacy as he and his brother talked to old friends. "Come get me when you're done. Oh, I wouldn't call Relena right afterwords. It'd be best to tell her about me coming along with you when Heero's asleep or at when you're work or something. Just until he's comfortable again to talk about things. He'll only be a wreck if he tried to talk to her now while he's still so confused. He might hurt Relena with unthought words and misread feelings. It could even make his problems worse. It'd just be better to wait sweet heart." With that, Hilde left, Dou's eyes trailing her as she headed down the hall towards the kitchen.
Opening the door, Dou found Heero just as he had left him. The tray of food and the flat soda rested on the night stand next to Heero's bed. Half of the crackers were gone and all that remained of the soda was a swallow or two.
Heero looked up at his brother with tired eyes, unsure of what he should do now. He'd been able to keep the crackers and soda down, his stomache feeling much better and a new energy coursed throughout his entire body. As soon as Dou opened the door, his head had shot up towards him. His eyes held a glimmer of fear and rejection. Dou didn't look like Hilde had given his a good answer. God, he wanted to see Relena again, to speak to her, to be near her. He wanted to hold her and never let her go. But he couldn't, not like this, not now.
"What's wrong with you?" Dou cocked his head with a curious stare.
"What'd she say," he cast his eyes toward the flowered quilt.
"Well, if you don't want to talk to her about your problems, I can just tell Hilde that she doesn't have to worry about waiting for us to finish talkin' to the guys." A smug looked masked his face.
"She said she'd help me out?" He looked into Dou's face.
"She practically jumped up and down in gratitude that you'd asked her for help. I can tell her otherwise.....," He trailed off and started to turn towards the door.
"No! I mean no, I want her help, if I don't talk to someone I'll go mad. I'm sorry Dou, but I need a girl's opinion on this one." He looked sincerely into his brother's eyes.
"No prob little bro, besides, Hilde still has some cookies made. While you keep her busy in here, I'll sneek out and get us some. She wouldn't let you have any right now, but oh well. As long as I sneek them in, we can get away with it and no one will ever have to know." Mischief radiated in his eyes and an evil grin played on his lips. "Hey, how 'bout we call Quatre and bother him for a while. Sound like fun?"
"Sure, why not."
Dou strode over to his brother, sat on the edge of the bed right next to Heero so they both could talk to Quatre at the same time, and expertly typed in his friend's number.
*Ring, Ring*
"Hello, Winner residence, may I ask who's calling?" Quatre answered.
"Talk about rude, the guy doesn't even turn on his screen to greet us, you think he'd like to talk face to face with his comrades in arms, but instead he puts us on voice only! He's got some nerve, wouldn't you say Heero?" Dou looked over at Heero who stared patiently at the screen. He made sure to make his comment loud enough to be heard on the other side of the line. There was an instant hurring of footsteps and the screen clicked on with a picture of Quatre smiling broadly in front of them.
"Hey guys! What took so long? Haven't heard from you in so long I was wondering if you forgot about me over here. How's it going Heero? God, we haven't heard from you since the last mission. Where have you been?" His voice was cheery dispite the fact that there were circles around his eyes and he was a little paler than normal.
"Hello Quatre, it's good to hear your voice again and to see you. It has been a while, but with 15 hour work days and trying to sleep the rest of the time, there wasn't much time for anything else." Heero spoke with a smile on his face, glad to talk to the young, kind-hearted Quatre again. It had been so long, he realized how much he'd actually missed his friends.
"How on Earth did you come up with an idea like that? Of course we couldn't forget you, it'd be impossible to forget someone like you buddy. Geeze, we aren't that cold-hearted." Dou spoke with sarcasim in his words.
There was a moment's hesitation. Then Quatre spoke, "I think this is the first time I've ever seen you smile Heero. God, the things I've missed in your lives as well as mine because I've always had mountains of papers that sit on my desk, always needing to be tended to. I guess we've all changed a bit." He looked at his friends with some regret, after all, they'd grown up, every one of them. They'd all changed, some more dramatically then the others in the small group of friends, but yet they'd all changed. He was going to make a big change in a few months. He was going to get married to Amber, someone he really loved. But that was what life was about, growing and changing, for life wouldn't be life without change. It's just some things you wish would stay the same for the rest of your life, because you know you are going to miss them that much.
"Oh man, you should have seen him yesterday Quatre, he was actually laughing. I swear, we were visiting the Andersons, they're new friends, anyway, oh man, he was laughing so hard it was unbelieveable. He even relaxed and had fun. Talk about a change." Dou spoke as if Heero wasn't even there. "The guy's been laughing, smiling, messing around, joking, and relaxing. I've finally corrupted him."
"Well, if you've corrupted him, then we are all in danger." Quatre acted out a dramatic faint.
The three continued to talk, about anything at random until Quatre had to leave for a meeting. Dou tried to talk him into just blowing it off and talking to them some more, but Heero agreed with Quatre and changed Dou's mind. It was a meeting to decide the construction of a community recreational center.
"Well, let's see, I think I have Trowa's number in here." Dou searched through his files.
"Ya, if you don't, you might actually have to do some work and look it up." Heero watched the lists of names and numbers flash before his eyes.
"SHHHHHHHHHH!!!! Don't jinx me! Man!" Dou scanned the quickly flashing names.
"You just passed it."
"Where?"
"Up one level."
Dou found the number and was getting ready when he was stopped.
"Dou, don't you have a Quick Find? You know, where you just type in the name and it goes straight to that person?"
Heero was right, Dou just didn't think about it. And here he was straining his eyes for nothing. His rebuttle was a glare as he stuck out his tongue a Heero in a childish manner. Heero returned his glare, knowing he was right.
The conversation with Trowa was pretty much the same. They met Maria quickly, then she had to leave. Cathy was taking her in town and the two were going shopping. They talked about how each had changed, what they were doing, remembered old times, and just practically goofed around. The three pilots talked for about an hour until Trowa had to go, he had a show to perform in ten minutes and he needed to get ready. They said their goodbyes and the vid-screen was once again black and silent. Heero was relieved, he had managed to stay away from talking about the invitations with Quatre and Trowa, he didn't want to discuss them right now.
"Well, that was fun," declared the pilot most only knew as the God Of Death. He got up and stretched his muscles, for it'd been about two and a half hours since he'd last moved from that spot on the bed next to his brother. "Well, time to bring in the expert. You ready for this chico?"
"Dou, do you know what you just called me? I'm not a little boy, you seriously need to study your foreign languages. It would be either hombre, amigo, senÃor, or muchacho. Not chico. " Heero looked at Dou as if he were out of his mind.
"Sorry. Are you ready for Hilde or should I ask her to hold off for a little while?"
"I'm as ready as I'll ever be to talk about this. I don't even know why I did mention this, but it's too late to take it back now."
"Well, I'm glad you brought it up. The more problems we can help you out with, bud, the sooner you can get on to a normal life."
Dou left the room and headed off to find his girlfriend. A strange dizzyness was starting to overcome Heero, and he layed down carefully. He didn't want to hurt himself or worry the others. He'd done that enough already. Closing his eyes, he let the dizziness come and pass like a cool spring breeze, there for but a few moments and gone as quickly as it swept in.
A soft knock at the door caught his attention. "Come in," is all he said, regaining his focus. He remained laying down, he had become tired talking and sitting up the whole time. In truth, the crackers had provided short bursts of energy, but that's all they were, short bursts. He didn't have that much energy to begin with, though he didn't let the others see it if he could hide it. He focused his eyes on Hilde, she stood smiling as she leaned against the door. She had already closed the door behind her. She also held something wrapped in a paper towel that she'd pulled out of her pocket. Hilde must have been trying to hide it from Dou.
"Keepin' things down okay?" She walked over to his bed side.
"I guess." What did this have to do with his problem?
"I still have some cookies that I stashed away before Dou woke up yesterday. You can have one now if you think you can keep it down." He sat up and she handed him a cookie.
Heero took it eagerly, it smelled delicious. He started off with small bites, making sure not to over-do himself.
"Dou should be coming looking for them anytime soon. He'll call down the hall when he can't find where I've hidden them, then he'll try and get the answer out of me. We should be hearing from him in ..5....4....3....2....1....,"
"Hilde!" came a frustrated shout. Hilde only smiled at her own cleverness as she watched Heero satisfy his need for sugar. Holding up the cookie, Hilde waited for Dou to appear outside the door. Sure enough, there he was within seconds, mouth hanging open as he watched his brother slowly eat one of his cookies and Hilde holding two, one for herself and one for him. Sure he was gonna give Heero one if the guy wanted it, but he didn't expect Hilde to just give it to him. She wouldn't normally do it, just to be on the safe side.
"Why you little....," A smile crossed his face as he strode over to her, looking at her demoniac grin. He was about to take the cookie, but Hilde quickly snatched her hand back with the cookie still in her grasp.
"Nuh uh, say please, muchacho. You're not gonna get it until you say please."
"Please Hilde," he gave her the sad puppy-dog eyes again and Hilde just couldn't refuse him any longer. He took the snack greedily and began to eat.
"Hmn hmn," she cleared her throat, expecting an answer.
"Oh, gracious Hilde," he continued to finish off his snack as though he were going to die if he didn't consume it all quickly.
"You're learning well Dou. See, Spanish isn't that hard, now is it?"
He only shook his head. "Guess I'll leave the two of you alone for now then. Hey Hild, can I borrow one of your CD's?"
"Sure, but put it back when your done."
Dou left and it was just Heero and Hilde once again. Heero had finished off his treat and layed down once more. He felt a warm hand touch his arm. He looked at Hilde who waited patiently for him to begin when he was comfortable.
"What's been bothering you meho?" her voice was soft and held great compassion.
"Huh?"
"You know what I mean. I can tell you're still confused about something that's been bothering since yesterday. What's been bothering you?"
All of his feelings came down to one word. "Relena."
"I thought so," she replied in a matter-of-fact tone of voice.
"I-I just don't know what I feel for her. I-I don't know how to explain it. I don't know what these feelings are or what they mean." He closed his eyes in frustration. Why couldn't he just figure this out or forget these feelings? Why must life be so complicated?
"Well, how do you feel? I mean, you know how you feel when you see her or even hear her name. You don't have to what these feelings are, or what they mean at this moment. That's why I'm here meho. That's what I can help you with." Hilde gave his arm reassuring squeeze.
A hesitation followed Hilde's last comment. Heero wasn't sure how to answer, he didn't know what to say.
"I was thinking about it on the way to the airport. I kept seeing her face, over and over agian. Each time there was a different exspression on her face, but it was always Relena. I, I'm not sure what you would call it. It was like an emptiness within me, like a part of me was missing. I was with Dou and Mat, but I was alone. I don't really know how else to explain it. I can't explain it, I'm sorry Hilde. I'm just wasting your time." He tried to turn from her but she caught his hand and held fast.
"You're not wasting my time. I know exactly how you feel and that's probably the only way anyone can explain it." She loosened her grip a little as he stopped, looking at her with a confused expression. "You feel like this because Relena means so much to you. You love her, Heero. That's why you feel alone. I felt the same way. I could have been in the middle of a large group of people, but I'd still feel alone because Dou was off fighting with you guys. One reason you may be seeing those mental pictures of her is because you want to be with her, around her, and you want to tell her how you feel. The next question is, though, does she feel the same way? Of course, you should still tell her how you feel, whether or not she returns the feelings. She has to know how you feel, and it will make you feel better either way. A girl's mind and heart are two different things. Most of the time, they don't even agree. It's hard to understand, even being a girl, it's hard to understand yourself. What her heart needs to hear are those words, are those feelings. No matter what her mind may say, the heart is always changing its choices and always has the last say in things."
"How would I know how she feels? She's never told me." Heero was beginning to understand, but when asked how Relena felt, he went straight back to confusion.
"Okay, maybe this will help. Tell me how she acts when she's around you. Actions can speak louder than words."
"She was always hanging around me.............. guess you could say that she would get protective from time to time, like Dou has been, but..........................different. No matter what I did, or even said, she just kept coming back."
"Sounds like she really cares for you, and it probably be a safe bet to tell her how you're feelin'. I would say that you might want to tell her face to face, and it might be better if you tell her right way or at least as soon as possible."
"What would I say? I still don't know what I feel, you said you were going to help me with that! God! why must everything be so confusing?!" Heero covered his face in frustration, finally loosing his cool.
"Whoe there meho! Settle down, I was getting to that part." Hilde reached up to pulls his hands from his face, all the while trying not to laugh. She didn't want to be rude, but it was just a little funny to see Heero finally loose his temper and he acted just as Dou did.
Heero allowed his hands to fall, looking at the ceiling as anger took over. Why was he acting like this? He never did. He should have been patient instead of letting his temper take control.
"So, what is this that I don;t understand." It sounded meaner than he had intended it to. Then, in a softer tone, "Why can't I just feel normal again? Why don't I understand this?"
"Oh meho, what you're feeling is the most normal thing any life form on this Earth can feel. It's called Love. You are in love with Relena, it's so evident. You feel that it's so confusing because you were raised to be The Perfect Soldier. You didn't learn what love was, you never had a chance to experience it. This is the first time you've ever felt this way, right?"
Thinking, he couldn't recall a time. Except when he first met Relena. "Yes."
"That's why, you never had anyone around to tell you or show you. You had to learn emotions the hard way, but you learned them. This is just one more emotion for you to exsperience." Hilde looked warmly into his eyes, seeing the confusion disappear as things finally began to make sense.
Hilde looked over to the dresser that stood near the doorway. Dou had left the vid-phone on top of the dresser, right next to Heero's white wolf cub. A thought crossed her mind and she turned to Heero. He knew what she was thinking, but Hilde could still see a hint of fear in his eyes. But he nodded anyway. Hilde crossed over the room and snatched the vid-phone on one swift motion and returned to the young man's beside. She quickly opened it, scanned through the files, and found Relena's name, number, and address. She typed in the number and handed the vid-phone to Heero who took it semireluctantly.
"When you're ready, just hit enter. Tell her how you feel, Heero. The her what your heart feels for her. But most importantly, tell her what you've just found out, that you love her." Hilde gave him an encouraging look. "Do you want me to stay? I was going to leave you to your privacy, but whatever makes you feel more comfortable."
Heero wanted her to stay, to encourage him. He knew this is something that should be said between Relena and himself, though, so he assured Hilde he would be fine. As the door closed behind the young teenage girl, Heero's heart rate began to speed up. His breathing became slightly more rapid as he placed his index finger above the button that could change everything. 'It's now or never, you can do this. You've got to do this.' he coached himself on, trying to settle his nerviousness. He pressed ENTER and waited as he heard the phone ring, alerting anyone who heard that someone wished to speak to them.
*Ring,* No answer.
*Ring,* Maybe no one was home.
*Ri...,* The phone was answered. Heero had expected Pegin, but instead the one who stood before his was none other that the princess herself, Relena. Upon seeing Heero, Relena's eyes opened wide and began to tear over as she sat, speechless.
"Hello, Relena." He spoke with longing in his voice, but he allowed himself a small smile in her presence.
"Heero?" She spoke as if he'd returned from the dead. In a way he had, he'd been gone from the rest of the world for so long.
"It's me Relena," he assured softly.
"Oh Heero, I've missed you so much," she stated, loosing her composure and letting her tears fall.
"It's all right, please don't cry Relena. I hate to see you cry." Almost as if it were a command, the princess immediately brushed the tears from her eyes and smiled back at him.
"Oh, Lord I'm so glad to see you again Heero." Her eyes light once again with a familiar excitement.
Heero was glad to see his Relena smiling again. "Relena," he spoke, for it was now or never, "I have something to tell you."
-Lady Stardancer
Author's note:
Hope you liked this one. I know it's a little short, but I had to decide where to start then next chapter so I thought I'd just stop it here. Thank you, thank you, thank you to all who review(ed)!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Sorry I had to leave you hanging though. To know a bit more about me, I've updated my bio. Hey, my e-mail address is on there too. I wouldn't mind some e- mails,*wink, wink*. Look for my next chapter. The best part should be coming in either chapter 6 or 7, or maybe even both. I'm workin' as fast as I can between school, friends, and band. I'll get up the next chapter A.S.A.P.! Thanks for the reviews again! =)
~*~Chapter 4~*~
A Call for Help
"......Go to sleep Dou, you've had a hard day and you still deserve a well needed rest." Hilde softly moved Dou's bangs out of his eyes and watched his as he fell asleep on her lap. She began to stroke his hair as a mother would a frightened child. Soon Dou was asleep, covered by a blanket that Hilde had asked a passing nurse for. "I have a feeling this isn't going to be the last time we all see the inside of this hospital, of this room. I don't think it'll be this minor of a problem either. I just hope I'm wrong."
~*~
Hilde awoke to the sound of a wailing siren. She didn't remember where she was at first, that was until she heard a steady beep sounding in front of her. It came back to her quickly, they were in the hospital, they'd called an ambulance to get Heero. He'd been throwing up and was having troubles breathing. He'd also had a high fever and something else was wrong, something that caused him great pain, but no one knew what it was. She spotted Heero, still sleeping, still hooked up to the numerous machines. Hilde looked down, only to find Dou still asleep on her lap. His face was regaining a healthy color.
"Oh man, talk about uncomfortable," the young girl stretched quietly and yawned. She looked out the window and saw the sun setting on the horizen. "Dusk already?" Hilde looked down at her watch, it was 6:00 in the evening. Wow, she'd slept nearly all day! No wonder she was so stiff and sore. Dou began to stir in his sleep, and Hilde place her hand on his arm, whispering, "It's okay Dou, I'm right here. Nothing's going to hurt you. Shhhhh. Nothing's gonna hurt you." Dou settled down once more and fell into a peaceful sleep.
Dr. McGowan entered the room, making sure to be quiet so as not to wake anyone. He spotted Hilde and headed over toward her. "Awake are we?"
"Ya, but you guys should try a new furniture store, these things are as hard as a rock." The doctor only grinned at her and chuckled to himself.
"I know, but the color goes so well with the room."
"I think they do special requests," retorted Hilde, holding Dou's head as she slipped out from under him. "Can you get me that pillow from the other bed or do you need it?"
"Nope."
Hilde took the pillow from the doctor and place it under Dou's head. He slept through it all, not knowing the difference. Hilde continued to stretch her muscles as the doctor only shook his head and went to check on Heero.
"How's he doing, Dr. McGowen?" Hilde peered over his shoulder. He only looked back at her and grinned.
"He's improving nicely, he should be waking up in a few hours. His heart beat's grown stronger and the color's coming back to his face. Those are just a few of his improvements. He can probably start breathing on his own, but we don't want to push it too far, he still needs rest." The doctor gave her a curt nod and left the room.
Hilde walked over to Heero's bedside and sat next to him. He was sleeping soundly and she had to admit he was looking so much better. Standing up, she brushed back his bangs and placed her lips on his forehead once again. His fever was gone, a very good sign. Heero flinched, but he didn't wake up, sleep kept its claim on him. That was fine, he needed to rest.
Walking out of the room she spotted the same paramedic who had talked to them. Cori was it? Almost instantly Cori spotted Hilde and walked over to her.
"Hey, how're things goin' with your friend? Chris tells me he's improving rapidly." Cori greeted her with a tired smile.
"It's going great, the guys are sleeping. You just get off of shift?" Hilde tried to get a conversation going so she wouldn't get bored. Hospitals have absolutely nothing for entertainment.
"Ya, you guys were probably the worst case we brought in. The only one that came close was a car crash, the driver lost control and ran into a ditch. He only had a broken arm, nothing major. You look like your hungry, wanna come to the cafeteria and grab a bite to eat with me?" Hilde accepted the offer readily, she hadn't eaten since breakfast and she was strangly hungry. Besides, Cori only looked a couple of years older than her and she seemed really nice. It would give her someting to do.
The two new found friends wondered down the hall to the small food court. Hilde and Cori each ordered a bottle of water and a salad. They took a table in the corner and began to chat. Hilde found out that her name was Cori Brazzle and she was a 22 year old single mother. She had a son, he was a freshman in high school and an honors student. Surprisingly he attended the same school Hilde just graduated from, she'd graduated the year before. Cori moved from Skyeview to Valley Ridge two years ago and they only lived four blocks from Hilde and Dou. Hilde had a feeling they were going to get to be really good friends. She and Cori shared a lot of the same views on life and were becoming good friends quickly.
"I'll have to talk Dou into coming to visit. We'll also have to wait for Heero to get better, Dou's pretty protective of him and he'd probably kill me if I mentioned that we should visit and take Heero with us." Hilde finished her bottle of water. "He wouldn't mind much though if you and Benjamin came over for a visit."
"Well, I guess I could always just say I was coming over to check on Heero, it'd give Ben a reason to come with. I swear, that kid always has to have a reason for everything." Cori and Hilde laughed as Cori told her how stubborn Ben was and their recent "surprise" trip. Just so she didn't ruin the surprise, Cori literally had to drag her son kicking and screaming to the car and tie him to the seat just so he wouldn't jump out.
"Oh no, Dou's probably up by now," Hilde glanced at her watch, "he'll be wondering where on Earth I went off to." The young teen dumped her garbage in the nearest trash can and came back to grab her water bottle.
"Ben's probably waitin' and wondering where his mom's at." Cori thought outloud.
"Well, it was fun having this little converstion," Hilde smiled. "You'll have to stop by the house sometime."
"I'll be sure to do that." Cori smiled and left after giving Hilde one last goodbye.
Hilde bought another bottle of water for Dou and headed back the room after stopping quickly by the water fountain to refill her's. Sure enough when Hilde reached the room there was Dou awake and sitting by Heero's bedside. He didn't even notice that she'd returned until she placed her hand on his right shoulder. He turned to face her.
"Where ya been?" He allowed himself a slight smile.
"I went to grab something to eat with the paramedic, Cori. The one that asked you the questions about Heero." Wrapping her arms around his shoulders, she bent down and kissed him on his cheek. He only returned his attention back to his brother. "Dou?"
Dou looked back into her eyes, still only half awake, "Hm?"
"He's going to be okay, I've already talked to the doctor. He should be waking up in a little while, but are you going to be okay?"
Dou thought for a moment, unsure of how he should answer. "I-I don't know. I'm not quite sure what you're asking."
"I know Heero's like a brother to you. And seeing him like this is practically killing you, I can see it in your eyes. You're wearing yourself out."
A heavy sigh escaped his lips, "I just want things to be normal. I just want to forget the war, forget about nearly killing ourselves because a couple of groups of people couldn't settle a little dispute that escalated to the need to take other's lives. We should have been going to school, having normal lives, just worring about our friends and homework, but instead we were worring about living from one minute to the next, trying to hide ourselves so we wouldn't get caught or killed. I hated having to take the lives of so many, just so I could live an extra day. Sure, I may never have met the guys, but if we were supposed to be friends, we would have found each other. I just hate it that for these few good things to exist, we had to pay such a price. Thousands upon thousands of people died. Quite a few weren't soldiers either, they were innocent people. I just wish things could be normal Hilde, I just want things to be normal for all of us so we can get on with our lives and actually have a life. Pretty much everyone else has, but I can't stand to see that Heero, who's suffered more than the rest of us, still can't have a life." He let his head drop to his chest, his eyes stinging in the threat of oncoming tears. Dou quickly blinked them back.
Hilde had been listening to Dou, her heart crying out to him. But she had quickly glanced at Heero's sleeping form. He wasn't sleeping any longer. He'd heard all Dou had to say, and an appreciative glimmer of hope shimmered in his deep blue eyes. "Well, why don't you tell your brother that then?" Hilde let a smile crease her lips.
"I would, and I will if he ever wakes up anytime soon." Dou still let his head hang, not really catching the hint of mischief in Hildes voice.
"I didn't know you cared so much Dou," a voice whispered, amusement playing in the words.
Dou's head shot up, his eyes catching sight of his awakened brother. He sat there in astonishment at the grin that appeared on his face, he'd heard Dou's conversation with Hilde. Dou let out a laugh, wondering why he didn't catch onto Hilde sooner.
"You heard all of that, didn't you you little eavesdropper," Dou should have known better. Heero only nodded his head in acknowledgement.
"You mean that?" he gave Dou an inquisitive glance as he whispered the question.
"You kidding? What make's you think I would say something like that about you?" Dou smiled showing he was only joking, but yes, he meant every word he spoke.
"Thanks Dou," his brother called from the bed.
"Anytime bro," Just then Dr. McGowen came in a smile upon his face after he saw that Heero was awake.
"And how are we all doing this evening?" He sounded way too cheery for Heero's liking.
"I hate these beds and I don't need the help of these machines any more," he spoke with loathing in his voice for being hooked up to the machines in the first place.
"Well, looks like Heero's back," Dou only shook his head and started to laugh. When Dou looked back at his brother, he had a smug look on his face and Dou just couldn't help but burst out in laughter at his exspresion. Hilde joined in as the she couldn't restrain herself any longer.
"Looks like we'll be out of here in no time," Hilde predicted at Heero's sudden change of mood.
"Hey, doc. A few words of advice. You might want to disconnect all of those machines and take him off the respirator, or he will do it himself. Even I can't stop him for doing that." Dou looked over at his brother who looked at the doctor, almost daring him to think Dou was wrong.
"Well, let's make a deal. I get rid of all of these machines and you stay in that bed and don't try and escape. I seriously doubt Cori really wants to haul you in again, especially now thats she's off shift." Dr. McGowen returned Heero's look, just daring him to refuse.
"Fine," was all he had to say. Reluctance was evindent.
"Wow, I haven't seen a challenge like that since Heero met Trowa." Dou shook his head in amazement.
Heero still wasn't as stubborn as he'd been, but he wasn't going to settle for less than he wanted. He seriously didn't like help from others, but he allowed it from his friends. He absolutely refused to accept help from stupid pieces of scrap metal when he didn't need it. He sat quietly and cooperated as he let the doctor remove the wires and tubes from his body. The doctor left the I.V. in saying that he was still dehydrated and it would have to stay in unless he wanted to start drinking a lot of water. Heero's stomache reminded him that he wasn't quite ready to ingest much right now so he didn't mind the I.V. His stomache was the reason he was here in the first place.
"There, finished. Can I get any of you anything else?" Dr. McGowen asked moving the last pieces of equipment out of the way.
Heero, feeling better now that he could breathe on his own and didn't feel like a science experiment was about to reply "no", but again he had to reconsider. His muscles were extremely sore from vomiting and whatever else happened to him back at Dou's. "A couple of aspirin would be welcome."
"I'll be back in a minute with them." And with that Dr. McGowen left the room.
"Well, how you feelin' amigo?" Dou piped up, trying to get him to talk.
Heero looked at him with a questioning look in his eyes and his eyebrow raise as a way of saying, "Are you kidding me?"
Dou only laughed. He was glad to see his brother was improving. He didn't look as bad he had before. He'd gotten a lot of sleep, and he looked like he was quite a bit healthier than when he first called Dou.
The doctor returned with two small white pills and a small glass of water. Heero took them warily, but swallowed them none the less and took only a sip of water. He immediately regretted it, his stomache started to churn again. He closed his eyes and concentrated, determined not to start vomiting again. He felt Dou rest his hand on his, but didn't open his eyes, he'd almost taken full control of his body again. Slowly he opened his eyes to see three worried faces looking at him.
"I'm fine," he spoke quietly, "just not used to drinking anything yet." Dou and Hilde nodded, the doctor still worried. "When can I leave?" came the question he could no longer stop himself from asking.
"Hmm, I guess as soon as you're ready. Though unless you plan on trying to get liquids and possibly some food into you as soon as you get out of here, I'd recommend staying for a little while longer." He emphisized the last half.
"But if he can't keep anything down, what's he supposed to eat?" Hilde questioned.
"You can start him off on crackers and water, or something like 7UP, but make sure you add ice to it and shake it up or something to get rid of the fizz. This won't upset his stomache, and it will keep him fed and hydrated." Then directing the last portion to Heero, "Be sure to start off slow, little bits and drinks at a time, then you can increase, slowly, your intake of food and liquids. Whenever you feel comfortable, you can move onto other foods and beverages. I just wouldn't start off with carbonated soda, it could upset your stomache again. Now all you need is bed rest and relaxation to let your body heal."
Heero nodded, and began to sit up.
"Where do you think you're goin buddy?" Dou looked at him in confusion.
"Leaving, what else does it look like?" Heero said, not even bothering to look at him.
"No your not," placing a hand on his shoulder, Dou layed Heero back down against the pillow.
"Why not? You heard him," he sounded like a little boy who was just denied something by his parents, "he said I could, just as soon as I was ready. I'm ready, let's go." Heero tried to rise once more, but Dou made him lay back down.
"Do you seriously want to see the inside of this place again that fast? You're gonna wait here till this I.V. is done at least."
"But....," he was cut off.
"No buts about it. You are waiting and you're not leaving a minute sooner." Dou crossed his arms across his chest and stood his ground. He looked back at Hilde, for she had collapsed to the floor in giggles.
The two were so comical, Hilde just couldn't stop herself. Heero was defeated, he looked like a little kid, pleading with his parent to give him what he wants. Heero and Dou were just kids, she realized. At heart, they would always be just like kids, childhood friends, and partners in crime. She envied them, starting off as two strangers and ending up as brothers. She hadn't had a friend like that since she was little. Her friend had been killed, caught in the crossfire between the Alliance and OZ when they were playing at the park. Her name was Rachel. Hilde shook the thoughts from her mind and took Dou's hand that he'd offered her and stood up. Heero sat smiling from his lying down position as Hilde finished her giggling.
After five more minutes of waiting, Dou was finally satisfied and let Heero rise out of the bed and get ready to leave. Dou stood right by his side as he got down from the bed, and it was a good thing because Heero's legs weren't strong enough at that point to hold himself up. Dou caught him and helped his brother out of the hospital and off to the car.
"Hilde, can you stay here with him a minute, I need to finish filling out the forms." Dou looked in the passenger side window as soon as he was done helping Heero into the back. Hilde said she would, but Dou would have to hurry because they still needed to stop by the store on the way home. Dou left and returned six minutes later and jumped into the car.
"Get everything done?" Hilde asked, turning onto main street.
"Yep, hey buddy, you feeling okay back there?"
"Stop fussing over me Dou, I'm just fine," Heero chided.
"Isn't that what you practically said last time?" Dou reminded.
"C'mon guys, we're almost there, Mrs. Felker's grocery is just on the next block. Hey, you guys stay in here," Hilde called over her shoulder as she pulling into the nearest parking space, "you guys favor anything in particular? I should probably get some more cookie dough, knowing you Dou you've cleaned out the whole batch of cookies." She gave Dou a devilish grin as he returned it with an innocent look. Hilde knew him better though, he was guilty as charged. "This way when your feelin' better Heero you can have some of the cookies, as long as your brother can keep his hands off of them long enough."
"Uh, I'm hurt, I'm really hurt Hilde," he placed his hands over his heart in a dramatic gesture, "You really think I would do something like that to my brother."
"Sure you would Dou," Heero added from the backseat.
"Traitor."
"Better believe it."
"Okay guys, I'll be right back ." Hilde headed off into the store. She grabbed a basket and headed straight back to the pop and grabbed two liters of 7UP, then she headed back to the frozen food isle and picked up a couple of buckets of cookie dough, suger and chocolate chip. Hilde hesitated a moment, trying to think if she forgot about anything. They already had some crackers at home, and she didn't recall anything else, so she headed straight for the checkout lane.
"Hey Hilde, how're things going," a guy by the name of Thomas Browning greeted.
"Hey Tom, things've been rough, to say the least."
"What happened?" Tom's voice was filled with concern. He was a good friend and he was always ready to help with any problems Hilde and Dou had.
"Sorry, but I've got to get the guys home. I'll have to tell you about it later."
"That's $7.59, what do you mean guys?" Tom finished scanning the last of the items and placed them in plastic bags.
"Ya, we've got a visitor. Name's Heero, one of Dou's buddies. We just got back from the hospital, long story, I'll have to get back to you on that one. Remind me next time I have the time to spare." Hilde grabbed her bags.
"Hope everything's okay, take care Hilde. Tell Dou I said hi," Tom called as Hilde walked out of the store.
She headed back to the car only to find that the two were deep in conversation and didn't even notice her. Just as she was about to get to the door, Heero pointed out to Dou that Hilde was back and she had her hands full. Dou scrambled out of the car immediately after grabbing the keys and went around to unlock the trunk.
"Sorry Hild, guess I just got a little into the conversation. I finally got Heero to talk to me about the dream he had on the plane. That's what made it such a tiring trip." He helped his girlfriend load the rest of the few groceries she'd boughtten. He was sure not to reveal too much. Heero still didn't really want to talk about it that openly.
"Let me guess, you're still not gonna tell me what happened or what any part of his dream was about." She gave him a reluctant glance.
"Sorry, but I've...," Hilde held up her hand to silence him.
"I understand, and I respect your brother's need for privacy. I just hope one day I can be told instead of standing in the dark the entire time. Just be sure to tell him, though, I can listen if he can't talk to you at the moment and I don't judge, critisize, or give up if someone comes to me with a problem. I'm always willing to help. Besides, if I told him that I'd just end up embarrassing him or something." Hilde let herself giggle at the last thought of actually embarrassing a guy like Heero.
"I will, and thanks for understanding Hilde." The couple embraced in a short hug, then each got in on their respected sides and they pulled out of the parking space and down the road to the house.
"Hope you guys didn't get bored while I was gone," Hilde called over her shoulder, turning onto Morgan St.
"Ya, actually we did. Geeze, what'd you do, sit in there and gossip with the cashier for an hour?" Dou asked, sarcasim dripping from his words.
Hilde instantly let go of the wheel with her right hand and slapped Dou in the arm, a smile stretching across her face. "Yep, was talking to Tom. He says hi."
"Abuse! See man, this is what I was telling you about. Never get into a relationship with a girl like Hilde. Once you get in, you can't get out. Sure they seem nice, but they'll do nothing but abuse." Dou whispered back to Heero loud enough for Hilde to hear.
*Whack* Hilde hit him in the arm again, this time harder.
"Your mouth always did get you in trouble," reminded his brother from the back seat. He chuckled as he watched Dou rub his sore arm. "What was your last punishment for running your mouth."
Dou's jaw dropped, he'd forgotten about it. "Are you nuts?! Are you trying to get me in more trouble?! Your supposed to be on my side!"
"That's right, Dou. You're still under punishment." Hilde pulled into the drive. "Thanks for the reminder Heero."
Hilde turned off the ignition, grabbed the keys, and and went to unlock the trunk.
"You ungrateful little traitor! What'd you do that for man? She'd forgotten!" Dou scowled at Heero, but he only laughed. He stopped immediatly, the aspirin hadn't kicked in yet. He closed his eyes and wrapped his arms around his stomache, curling up to try and reduce the pain. Dou had gotten out and he opened the door quickly when he saw his hombre hunched over with his arms wrapped around his mid-section. "Heero, you okay? What happened?"
"I'm.....I'm all right Dou. Doctor's medicine doesn't work worth anything, though." Heero opened his eyes and leaned back against the seat. He'd already taken his seat belt off.
"Look, let's just get you into bed, you need to rest. We don't want to push it. I shouldn't have been making you laugh in the first place, c'mon." He helped Heero out of the car and put his arm around his shoulder so that Heero would be able to use Dou to support himself.
Hilde was just returning from the house after dropping off the groceries and upon seeing the two, she frowned. Heero still wasn't well and he needed to lay down and rest. She only wondered why he looked as though he were uncomfortable.
"Go ahead and take him to his room, I'll lock up the car and be in there in a minute." Dou nodded and left Hilde to take care of things while he took care of his brother. When Hilde arrived back in the house she strolled down the hall to Heero's room. The door was closed and Hilde could hear voices talking softly on the other side. She wanted to know what was going on, should she listen? But then Dou and Heero wouldn't trust her. She knocked softly on the door so as not to give into her temptation of listening in on their conversation and to let them know she was there.
"Come on in Hilde." Dou beckoned.
Hilde entered, a smile upon her face. Heero was already laying down, Dou sitting on the edge of his bed. The boys looked at her and suddenly she was ashamed for even THINKING about listening in on their conversation. *sometimes you just really have to hate your conscience* Shaking her head, she remembered what she was going to ask them. "Would you like to try and eat something Heero?"
He gave her a wary look, turned to Dou who shook his head, then replied, "I'll try."
"Okay. Oh Dou, you still have to call Quatre back. Trowa also called while you were asleep, just to talk he said, so I didn't wake you up. If you want to call now, I can bring in the vid-phone. I'm sure the others would love to see you and talk to you again Heero." Hilde watched a thoughtful look cross Heero's face, but it was soon gone.
"Sounds like fun, you up to it?" Dou glanced at his brother.
Heero only rolled his eyes. "You both seriously have to stop fussing over me so much. It's not like I'm dying or anything. I can still take care of myself. But, I think it would be welcome to talk to them again." He added the last part as he sat up slowly, careful not to aggitate his already sore muscles.
"I'll be right back then." With that Hilde left the room.
"Dou, do you think she heard?" Heero questioned. He'd been telling Dou the rest of his dream. He didn't want Hilde to know, not just yet. "You didn't tell her anything when you were helping her put the stuff in the back of the car, did you?"
"No, I tried to apologize for not being able to and she cut me off. She just wants you to know, she respects your privacy, and only hopes one day she can know too. She also says to tell you, she's a good listener, I've learned that from experience, and she doesn't judge or anything. She'd probably be a better help to you if you have a problem then I would be."
"Thanks Dou."
"Anytime. Hey, after we get done callin' the guys, I've still gotta call your girlfriend." At mentioning Relena as his girlfriend, Dou's only reply was a glare.
Heero didn't know why he minded Dou saying that, he just did.
"Lighten up, but hey, you wanna call Relena? I can always do it at work or somethin' tomorrow if you're tryin' to avoid her."
"What gives you the idea I'm trying to avoid her?" Heero didn't mean to give him that impression.
"Well, you haven't spoken to anyone in over a year now. That was 'till you called me. I don't think Relena even knew where to send your invitation to."
"Invitation?"
"Oy! Man, you shouldn't hide yourself from the world, you miss out on a lot. Ya, Relena sent out an invitation to each of us. She said she was trying to get all the pilots back together again since she seemed to miss us after the war was over. She said it'd be a good chance to catch up on each other's lives, and just relax for about a week with old friends. It's from, what were the dates, oh ya December 1st to December 7th."
"I don't think I can go Dou," he cast his glance toward the floor, "I really don't think I can go."
"What!?! Why would you say a thing like that? If you think Relena's mad at you or something, then.....,"
Heero suddenly cut him off with a wave of his hand. Should he tell Dou? Could he tell Dou? He was confused and he still wanted the answers. He just didn't know if he could tell him.
"Look, I can see you don't really want to talk about this with me buddy. Maybe you could try talking to Hilde. If it deals with girls, Hilde's probably one of the best to talk to. She could probably help you out better than I could. I can ask Hilde if you want."
"Ask me what?" Hilde stood outside the door, a tray of crackers and flat soda for Heero and the vid-phone for Dou.
"Well, do ya wanna buddy?"
Heero was hesitant, almost afraid to answer. If he said yes, maybe Hilde could help him. But what if Dou was wrong, what if Hilde thought it was just a stupid question or something. Well, if he said no, he'd probably hurt Hilde and she was only trying to help.
"Heero?" Dou called again.
He wasn't getting anywhere keeping the questions to himself. He had to go for it or forget it. He knew he wasn't going to forget it, and he wanted answers desperately. He made up his mind, Dou even told him Hilde was probably the better pick when asking for help, especially if it concerned someone like Relena. He was going to ask for help. It was now or never. He nodded quickly before he changed his mind.
"Okay," Dou was glad that Heero was at least going to get some help, even if Dou couldn't give the advice to him.
"Hey, uh ................. Dou. Could I...........talk to you.......... in the hall?" Hilde knew Heero was extremely uncomfortable and tried to make it easier on him.
"Sure. Hey I'll be back in a moment, don't do anything to yourself." Dou glanced back unsure as he left, Hilde dragging him by the arm.
"What's wrong," she spoke softly as she closed the young man's door.
"I-I don't know. Heero's really trying to avoid talking about Relena, he's tryin' to tell me he's not gonna accept the invitation. He's got a lot of questions and he's really confused, I can tell just by the way the guys acting. He won't talk to me, but I told him that you'd offered your help, and that you were probably better to talk to than me. Especially if it's gonna deal with girl's feelings. I gave up on the female race and tryin' to understand you all a long time ago." At that last comment, Dou got a slight slap on the arm. It was just a playful slap. "But, anyway he needs to talk to someone and I just offered to ask you to help him and that's what he'd said yes about."
Hilde thought for a moment, glad that Heero knew he could talk to her and that she could be of some help. "All right, but you better make your calls first. It'll probably help him to relax."
"Just what to tell the guys if they ask if he's comin' or not to Relena's."
"Cover up for him. I don't know, joke around like Heero's got all these dates with a lot of other girls and he's not sure if he can fit it into his "busy" schedual. I'd say, just try and avoid the subject for now." Hilde placed her arms on his shoulders and let herself be drawn into a warm embrace by Dou. The two kissed for a moment, then Hilde left him to have privacy as he and his brother talked to old friends. "Come get me when you're done. Oh, I wouldn't call Relena right afterwords. It'd be best to tell her about me coming along with you when Heero's asleep or at when you're work or something. Just until he's comfortable again to talk about things. He'll only be a wreck if he tried to talk to her now while he's still so confused. He might hurt Relena with unthought words and misread feelings. It could even make his problems worse. It'd just be better to wait sweet heart." With that, Hilde left, Dou's eyes trailing her as she headed down the hall towards the kitchen.
Opening the door, Dou found Heero just as he had left him. The tray of food and the flat soda rested on the night stand next to Heero's bed. Half of the crackers were gone and all that remained of the soda was a swallow or two.
Heero looked up at his brother with tired eyes, unsure of what he should do now. He'd been able to keep the crackers and soda down, his stomache feeling much better and a new energy coursed throughout his entire body. As soon as Dou opened the door, his head had shot up towards him. His eyes held a glimmer of fear and rejection. Dou didn't look like Hilde had given his a good answer. God, he wanted to see Relena again, to speak to her, to be near her. He wanted to hold her and never let her go. But he couldn't, not like this, not now.
"What's wrong with you?" Dou cocked his head with a curious stare.
"What'd she say," he cast his eyes toward the flowered quilt.
"Well, if you don't want to talk to her about your problems, I can just tell Hilde that she doesn't have to worry about waiting for us to finish talkin' to the guys." A smug looked masked his face.
"She said she'd help me out?" He looked into Dou's face.
"She practically jumped up and down in gratitude that you'd asked her for help. I can tell her otherwise.....," He trailed off and started to turn towards the door.
"No! I mean no, I want her help, if I don't talk to someone I'll go mad. I'm sorry Dou, but I need a girl's opinion on this one." He looked sincerely into his brother's eyes.
"No prob little bro, besides, Hilde still has some cookies made. While you keep her busy in here, I'll sneek out and get us some. She wouldn't let you have any right now, but oh well. As long as I sneek them in, we can get away with it and no one will ever have to know." Mischief radiated in his eyes and an evil grin played on his lips. "Hey, how 'bout we call Quatre and bother him for a while. Sound like fun?"
"Sure, why not."
Dou strode over to his brother, sat on the edge of the bed right next to Heero so they both could talk to Quatre at the same time, and expertly typed in his friend's number.
*Ring, Ring*
"Hello, Winner residence, may I ask who's calling?" Quatre answered.
"Talk about rude, the guy doesn't even turn on his screen to greet us, you think he'd like to talk face to face with his comrades in arms, but instead he puts us on voice only! He's got some nerve, wouldn't you say Heero?" Dou looked over at Heero who stared patiently at the screen. He made sure to make his comment loud enough to be heard on the other side of the line. There was an instant hurring of footsteps and the screen clicked on with a picture of Quatre smiling broadly in front of them.
"Hey guys! What took so long? Haven't heard from you in so long I was wondering if you forgot about me over here. How's it going Heero? God, we haven't heard from you since the last mission. Where have you been?" His voice was cheery dispite the fact that there were circles around his eyes and he was a little paler than normal.
"Hello Quatre, it's good to hear your voice again and to see you. It has been a while, but with 15 hour work days and trying to sleep the rest of the time, there wasn't much time for anything else." Heero spoke with a smile on his face, glad to talk to the young, kind-hearted Quatre again. It had been so long, he realized how much he'd actually missed his friends.
"How on Earth did you come up with an idea like that? Of course we couldn't forget you, it'd be impossible to forget someone like you buddy. Geeze, we aren't that cold-hearted." Dou spoke with sarcasim in his words.
There was a moment's hesitation. Then Quatre spoke, "I think this is the first time I've ever seen you smile Heero. God, the things I've missed in your lives as well as mine because I've always had mountains of papers that sit on my desk, always needing to be tended to. I guess we've all changed a bit." He looked at his friends with some regret, after all, they'd grown up, every one of them. They'd all changed, some more dramatically then the others in the small group of friends, but yet they'd all changed. He was going to make a big change in a few months. He was going to get married to Amber, someone he really loved. But that was what life was about, growing and changing, for life wouldn't be life without change. It's just some things you wish would stay the same for the rest of your life, because you know you are going to miss them that much.
"Oh man, you should have seen him yesterday Quatre, he was actually laughing. I swear, we were visiting the Andersons, they're new friends, anyway, oh man, he was laughing so hard it was unbelieveable. He even relaxed and had fun. Talk about a change." Dou spoke as if Heero wasn't even there. "The guy's been laughing, smiling, messing around, joking, and relaxing. I've finally corrupted him."
"Well, if you've corrupted him, then we are all in danger." Quatre acted out a dramatic faint.
The three continued to talk, about anything at random until Quatre had to leave for a meeting. Dou tried to talk him into just blowing it off and talking to them some more, but Heero agreed with Quatre and changed Dou's mind. It was a meeting to decide the construction of a community recreational center.
"Well, let's see, I think I have Trowa's number in here." Dou searched through his files.
"Ya, if you don't, you might actually have to do some work and look it up." Heero watched the lists of names and numbers flash before his eyes.
"SHHHHHHHHHH!!!! Don't jinx me! Man!" Dou scanned the quickly flashing names.
"You just passed it."
"Where?"
"Up one level."
Dou found the number and was getting ready when he was stopped.
"Dou, don't you have a Quick Find? You know, where you just type in the name and it goes straight to that person?"
Heero was right, Dou just didn't think about it. And here he was straining his eyes for nothing. His rebuttle was a glare as he stuck out his tongue a Heero in a childish manner. Heero returned his glare, knowing he was right.
The conversation with Trowa was pretty much the same. They met Maria quickly, then she had to leave. Cathy was taking her in town and the two were going shopping. They talked about how each had changed, what they were doing, remembered old times, and just practically goofed around. The three pilots talked for about an hour until Trowa had to go, he had a show to perform in ten minutes and he needed to get ready. They said their goodbyes and the vid-screen was once again black and silent. Heero was relieved, he had managed to stay away from talking about the invitations with Quatre and Trowa, he didn't want to discuss them right now.
"Well, that was fun," declared the pilot most only knew as the God Of Death. He got up and stretched his muscles, for it'd been about two and a half hours since he'd last moved from that spot on the bed next to his brother. "Well, time to bring in the expert. You ready for this chico?"
"Dou, do you know what you just called me? I'm not a little boy, you seriously need to study your foreign languages. It would be either hombre, amigo, senÃor, or muchacho. Not chico. " Heero looked at Dou as if he were out of his mind.
"Sorry. Are you ready for Hilde or should I ask her to hold off for a little while?"
"I'm as ready as I'll ever be to talk about this. I don't even know why I did mention this, but it's too late to take it back now."
"Well, I'm glad you brought it up. The more problems we can help you out with, bud, the sooner you can get on to a normal life."
Dou left the room and headed off to find his girlfriend. A strange dizzyness was starting to overcome Heero, and he layed down carefully. He didn't want to hurt himself or worry the others. He'd done that enough already. Closing his eyes, he let the dizziness come and pass like a cool spring breeze, there for but a few moments and gone as quickly as it swept in.
A soft knock at the door caught his attention. "Come in," is all he said, regaining his focus. He remained laying down, he had become tired talking and sitting up the whole time. In truth, the crackers had provided short bursts of energy, but that's all they were, short bursts. He didn't have that much energy to begin with, though he didn't let the others see it if he could hide it. He focused his eyes on Hilde, she stood smiling as she leaned against the door. She had already closed the door behind her. She also held something wrapped in a paper towel that she'd pulled out of her pocket. Hilde must have been trying to hide it from Dou.
"Keepin' things down okay?" She walked over to his bed side.
"I guess." What did this have to do with his problem?
"I still have some cookies that I stashed away before Dou woke up yesterday. You can have one now if you think you can keep it down." He sat up and she handed him a cookie.
Heero took it eagerly, it smelled delicious. He started off with small bites, making sure not to over-do himself.
"Dou should be coming looking for them anytime soon. He'll call down the hall when he can't find where I've hidden them, then he'll try and get the answer out of me. We should be hearing from him in ..5....4....3....2....1....,"
"Hilde!" came a frustrated shout. Hilde only smiled at her own cleverness as she watched Heero satisfy his need for sugar. Holding up the cookie, Hilde waited for Dou to appear outside the door. Sure enough, there he was within seconds, mouth hanging open as he watched his brother slowly eat one of his cookies and Hilde holding two, one for herself and one for him. Sure he was gonna give Heero one if the guy wanted it, but he didn't expect Hilde to just give it to him. She wouldn't normally do it, just to be on the safe side.
"Why you little....," A smile crossed his face as he strode over to her, looking at her demoniac grin. He was about to take the cookie, but Hilde quickly snatched her hand back with the cookie still in her grasp.
"Nuh uh, say please, muchacho. You're not gonna get it until you say please."
"Please Hilde," he gave her the sad puppy-dog eyes again and Hilde just couldn't refuse him any longer. He took the snack greedily and began to eat.
"Hmn hmn," she cleared her throat, expecting an answer.
"Oh, gracious Hilde," he continued to finish off his snack as though he were going to die if he didn't consume it all quickly.
"You're learning well Dou. See, Spanish isn't that hard, now is it?"
He only shook his head. "Guess I'll leave the two of you alone for now then. Hey Hild, can I borrow one of your CD's?"
"Sure, but put it back when your done."
Dou left and it was just Heero and Hilde once again. Heero had finished off his treat and layed down once more. He felt a warm hand touch his arm. He looked at Hilde who waited patiently for him to begin when he was comfortable.
"What's been bothering you meho?" her voice was soft and held great compassion.
"Huh?"
"You know what I mean. I can tell you're still confused about something that's been bothering since yesterday. What's been bothering you?"
All of his feelings came down to one word. "Relena."
"I thought so," she replied in a matter-of-fact tone of voice.
"I-I just don't know what I feel for her. I-I don't know how to explain it. I don't know what these feelings are or what they mean." He closed his eyes in frustration. Why couldn't he just figure this out or forget these feelings? Why must life be so complicated?
"Well, how do you feel? I mean, you know how you feel when you see her or even hear her name. You don't have to what these feelings are, or what they mean at this moment. That's why I'm here meho. That's what I can help you with." Hilde gave his arm reassuring squeeze.
A hesitation followed Hilde's last comment. Heero wasn't sure how to answer, he didn't know what to say.
"I was thinking about it on the way to the airport. I kept seeing her face, over and over agian. Each time there was a different exspression on her face, but it was always Relena. I, I'm not sure what you would call it. It was like an emptiness within me, like a part of me was missing. I was with Dou and Mat, but I was alone. I don't really know how else to explain it. I can't explain it, I'm sorry Hilde. I'm just wasting your time." He tried to turn from her but she caught his hand and held fast.
"You're not wasting my time. I know exactly how you feel and that's probably the only way anyone can explain it." She loosened her grip a little as he stopped, looking at her with a confused expression. "You feel like this because Relena means so much to you. You love her, Heero. That's why you feel alone. I felt the same way. I could have been in the middle of a large group of people, but I'd still feel alone because Dou was off fighting with you guys. One reason you may be seeing those mental pictures of her is because you want to be with her, around her, and you want to tell her how you feel. The next question is, though, does she feel the same way? Of course, you should still tell her how you feel, whether or not she returns the feelings. She has to know how you feel, and it will make you feel better either way. A girl's mind and heart are two different things. Most of the time, they don't even agree. It's hard to understand, even being a girl, it's hard to understand yourself. What her heart needs to hear are those words, are those feelings. No matter what her mind may say, the heart is always changing its choices and always has the last say in things."
"How would I know how she feels? She's never told me." Heero was beginning to understand, but when asked how Relena felt, he went straight back to confusion.
"Okay, maybe this will help. Tell me how she acts when she's around you. Actions can speak louder than words."
"She was always hanging around me.............. guess you could say that she would get protective from time to time, like Dou has been, but..........................different. No matter what I did, or even said, she just kept coming back."
"Sounds like she really cares for you, and it probably be a safe bet to tell her how you're feelin'. I would say that you might want to tell her face to face, and it might be better if you tell her right way or at least as soon as possible."
"What would I say? I still don't know what I feel, you said you were going to help me with that! God! why must everything be so confusing?!" Heero covered his face in frustration, finally loosing his cool.
"Whoe there meho! Settle down, I was getting to that part." Hilde reached up to pulls his hands from his face, all the while trying not to laugh. She didn't want to be rude, but it was just a little funny to see Heero finally loose his temper and he acted just as Dou did.
Heero allowed his hands to fall, looking at the ceiling as anger took over. Why was he acting like this? He never did. He should have been patient instead of letting his temper take control.
"So, what is this that I don;t understand." It sounded meaner than he had intended it to. Then, in a softer tone, "Why can't I just feel normal again? Why don't I understand this?"
"Oh meho, what you're feeling is the most normal thing any life form on this Earth can feel. It's called Love. You are in love with Relena, it's so evident. You feel that it's so confusing because you were raised to be The Perfect Soldier. You didn't learn what love was, you never had a chance to experience it. This is the first time you've ever felt this way, right?"
Thinking, he couldn't recall a time. Except when he first met Relena. "Yes."
"That's why, you never had anyone around to tell you or show you. You had to learn emotions the hard way, but you learned them. This is just one more emotion for you to exsperience." Hilde looked warmly into his eyes, seeing the confusion disappear as things finally began to make sense.
Hilde looked over to the dresser that stood near the doorway. Dou had left the vid-phone on top of the dresser, right next to Heero's white wolf cub. A thought crossed her mind and she turned to Heero. He knew what she was thinking, but Hilde could still see a hint of fear in his eyes. But he nodded anyway. Hilde crossed over the room and snatched the vid-phone on one swift motion and returned to the young man's beside. She quickly opened it, scanned through the files, and found Relena's name, number, and address. She typed in the number and handed the vid-phone to Heero who took it semireluctantly.
"When you're ready, just hit enter. Tell her how you feel, Heero. The her what your heart feels for her. But most importantly, tell her what you've just found out, that you love her." Hilde gave him an encouraging look. "Do you want me to stay? I was going to leave you to your privacy, but whatever makes you feel more comfortable."
Heero wanted her to stay, to encourage him. He knew this is something that should be said between Relena and himself, though, so he assured Hilde he would be fine. As the door closed behind the young teenage girl, Heero's heart rate began to speed up. His breathing became slightly more rapid as he placed his index finger above the button that could change everything. 'It's now or never, you can do this. You've got to do this.' he coached himself on, trying to settle his nerviousness. He pressed ENTER and waited as he heard the phone ring, alerting anyone who heard that someone wished to speak to them.
*Ring,* No answer.
*Ring,* Maybe no one was home.
*Ri...,* The phone was answered. Heero had expected Pegin, but instead the one who stood before his was none other that the princess herself, Relena. Upon seeing Heero, Relena's eyes opened wide and began to tear over as she sat, speechless.
"Hello, Relena." He spoke with longing in his voice, but he allowed himself a small smile in her presence.
"Heero?" She spoke as if he'd returned from the dead. In a way he had, he'd been gone from the rest of the world for so long.
"It's me Relena," he assured softly.
"Oh Heero, I've missed you so much," she stated, loosing her composure and letting her tears fall.
"It's all right, please don't cry Relena. I hate to see you cry." Almost as if it were a command, the princess immediately brushed the tears from her eyes and smiled back at him.
"Oh, Lord I'm so glad to see you again Heero." Her eyes light once again with a familiar excitement.
Heero was glad to see his Relena smiling again. "Relena," he spoke, for it was now or never, "I have something to tell you."
-Lady Stardancer
Author's note:
Hope you liked this one. I know it's a little short, but I had to decide where to start then next chapter so I thought I'd just stop it here. Thank you, thank you, thank you to all who review(ed)!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Sorry I had to leave you hanging though. To know a bit more about me, I've updated my bio. Hey, my e-mail address is on there too. I wouldn't mind some e- mails,*wink, wink*. Look for my next chapter. The best part should be coming in either chapter 6 or 7, or maybe even both. I'm workin' as fast as I can between school, friends, and band. I'll get up the next chapter A.S.A.P.! Thanks for the reviews again! =)