I just couldn't wait for this chapter to get back from the beta! Some changes may be made and the chapter might have to be re-loaded latter but, heck… I couldn't keep you all waiting one day longer!! I apologize in advance for spelling errors and stuff that I might have missed. So here ya go!!!
A/N: the last chapter was not meant to discourage anyone who needs psychological treatment from seeking it… it was merely based on my own personal experiences…
Oh, from here on out… Defiantly 1+2 … hints of 3+4, 5+4, and past 5+2: better get Jerry Springer in here…. -_-;
* Huggles her reviewers * Thank you guys again!!! Feedback makes it worth writing!!
Still own nothing…
"Chapter 8 ~ Awakening"
I sat staring motionless at the beauty before me, making my best attempts to tune out the voices traveling in from the hall. Guilt and apprehension traveled through my body as the fretful words of two close friends settled in my ears. The past two weeks had proved to be more complicated and eventful that I had ever anticipated. Much to my dismay, my actions on the L7 colony cluster had not gone unnoticed by my superiors and co-workers. Wufei was currently faced with the task of explaining to the newly arrived Trowa as to exactly why I'd been put on medical leave by the Preventers.
The trip from L7 to the hospital facility to Earth had been smooth. Quatre had been kind enough to hold the shuttle at port while Wufei and I took a private plane from the hospital. The luxury jet, most likely one of the Winners private planes, took only twenty minutes to reach the spaceport. For me, those twenty minutes felt like hours. Anxiety pumped through my veins like fire as I starred out the window at the passing city scrape. Memories of Duo swimming through my brain, my mind raced along at a fevered pace. I hadn't realized my hands were shaking until Wufei reached over and placed a steady hand over mine. His compassionate gaze locked my eyes into his, and I sat melting into the hope he provided.
Quatre formally greeted us on the runway and led the way though the crowded port to his company's private dock. I hadn't laid eyes on the blonde in almost a year but his friendly demeanor and sparkling crystal aqua blue orbs still held the same warmth. Even though the circumstances were dire, he smiled rays of sunshine. Quatre has a way about him that always breathes life into even the grimmest of conditions. For the kindness he's shown Duo, I am eternally grateful.
The ship was a fully established hospital in and of it-self, with all the comforts of first-class passenger shuttle. The upper deck was lavishly furnished with leather reclining passenger seats, plush wine red carpets, and tortoise-shell conference tables. The second level had individual sterile rooms, some equipped for surgical proceedings, others meant for patients. A private doctor Quatre contracted had prepped Duo for the three-day journey. A small staff of medical professionals also joined the good doctor in caring for the slumber angel during the voyage. I wanted to spend the entire journey locked in Duo's room, but Wufei and Quatre saw that I ate and slept regularly in my own quarters. It amazes me how much they really do care…
Earth offered more opportunity for Duo's recovery. I stayed by his bed for hours at a time, praying to whatever god might here me; begging them to save my Shinigami…
A few members of the private medical staff that accompanied us from L7 stayed on. One of them, Dr. Beatrice Hawkins, the most renowned neurosurgeon in L3, spent hours performing cranial scans to pinpoint any specific damage. She brought with her a staff of specialists and Quatre hired a team of private nurses to fuss over Duo.
After several days of non-stop tests, the medical facility Quatre recommended provided all of us with relieving news; Duo had suffered minimal brain damage and would most likely function normally when he awoke.
'When'~ That word filled me with so much hope I though my heart would overflow with delight.
The young Winner managed to secure Duo a private room that much resembled a hotel suite. A private bathroom, outsized double bed, pullout sofa, and bay window with a view of the vast botanical gardens were just some of the many perks the room had to offer. The only indication of the room's true dire purpose was that vast array of monitors and machinery that monitored the young patients vital signs.
Wufei, Quatre, and myself made use of the sofa's pullout bed and spent many restless nights monitoring our friend. I would stay every evening if Quatre hadn't insisted on persuading me to stay with him. The petit young blonde can be very convincing with his onslaught of charming smiles and concerned facial expressions. When I miss a meal he sends a tray to my room. When I haven't slept he practically tucks me into bed like a little boy. Under any other circumstances I'd find his actions intrusive; but given my previous behavior patterns, I can understand his concern.
It didn't take much work to remove any evidence of myself from the psychiatrist's database. However, after a consultation with Cornel Director Une, a decision was made for me to take a six-month paid-vacation from the Preventers. I also underwent a full psychiatric evaluation at the Preventers' headquarters in Sanq; and released three days latter with a clean bill of health. I simply learned to tell the psychologists what they wanted to hear. The 'vacation' from work allots an abundance of time for me to spend with Duo.
We talk, or rather; I talk, thanks to engorgement from the physicians who insisted Duo could most likely hear ever word said in his presence. I carried on one-sided conversations with my slumbering angel. I found things to say; most are words I would probably never find the courage to say to him if he were awake. I often find myself beginning a conversation with 'do you remember when?' remising about the tragedies that befell us during the wars or happier times when we'd shared a home. Sometimes his body shifts or a low moan will escape his parched lips, almost as a way to acknowledge my presence. Those moments send sparks shooting down my spine. Soon his angelic voice will speak my name once again.
Remembering Duo's fondness for model kits, I went to the local craft shop and purchased a wide verity of different ships and planes for 'us' to assemble during the long hours of waiting at the hospital. I discovered one company had put together a line of 'War Relic' model kits and I purchased one of each Mobil Suit model they manufactured, including the surprisingly accurate miniature Gundams. I spent most evenings at the table by Duo's bed piecing together the intricate parts. I really wish Duo had been awake to see the queer expression on Wufei's face when I presented him with an eight-inch replica of 'his Nataku'.
Quatre found my endeavors quite humorous, commenting: "I think it's wonderful you're keeping busy, Heero. Now the hospital room is equipped with it's own miniature army, should the facility ever be over-run!"
I couldn't restrain the goofy grin from spreading across my face. Quatre has that power over people; his charm just melts their hearts. Witch, of course, is why I wish he were here now to handle a very confused and enraged Trowa.
Trowa, Quatre, and Duo had remained exceedingly close following the first war. However, Duo and I aside, after Maremaia most everyone went his separate way. Duo had conveyed to me information about Quatre and Torwa's 'relationship' after the first war. Apparently, although he had understood, Quatre had been disappointed with Trowa's decision to return to the circus after peace had been achieved. Trowa felt as if he owed a debt of gratitude to Catherine, and once a DNA test confirmed they were in fact blood brother and sister, he felt a need to be with his family. I can't say I blame him.
The traveling circus troop to witch the uni-banged clown belonged was finally due to pass through the area this week, and Wufei had taken it upon himself to go down and speak with him. Expressing deep concern for his friend, Trowa confirmed that he would indeed make a point to visit Duo while he was in the neighborhood.
When the ex-heavyarms pilot arrived, I had been alone with Duo in the room; Unaware of the fact that Trowa and Wufei had spoken or that the emerald-eyed boy had planned to visit. As it was the middle of the day, he was surprised to find me hovering over a table attempting to assemble a miniature replica of a Leo. He stood there for a moment, obviously dumbfounded, shifting his gaze from Duo to me then back to Duo again and finally rising and eyebrow in my direction.
"Heero. Pleasure to see you again."
I nodded and continued my construction.
"Shouldn't you be at work?"
"I'm on leave." I replied, still not meeting his gaze.
He gestured to the tiny piles of plastic parts arranged on the table. "And what exactly are you doing?"
"Duo and I are building models."
He seemed to digest my response for a moment before simply responding, "I see………."
Then his question brought to mind something I had finished two days prior. I put down the bits of plastic and glue and scurried over to the window seat where the completed models had been arranged by Quatre and myself in various battle scenes. I immediately picked out exactly what I had been looking for and shuffled over to Trowa, presenting him with the model Duo and I had produced of Heavyarms.
"Duo wants you to have it."
My former comrade stood expressionless gazing at the small toy in my hand. A few minutes must have passed before he turned and walked back out the door. Disappointed and rejected, I returned to my labor.
He returned an hour latter with Wufei. Witch brings me back to the present moment.
The young Preventer and the worlds most forlorn circus clown are standing in the hall, in dispute over me. I can clearly hear every word of their conversation. Each syllable Trowa spoke stung and burned at my brittle ego.
"Wufei, he's in there playing with toys."
"So."
"You don't find that the least bit odd?"
" Trowa, it keeps him busy."
"He's making copies of our Gundams."
"So, he made me a replica of Natauku."
"…and you kept it?"
"Yes. It's on my desk if you must know."
"…and you find this to be typical Heero Yuy behavior?"
"No."
"So why isn't he in treatment?"
"Trowa, he's fine. The Preventer's psychiatrist already cleared him. This is a stressful situation for all of us. This just happens to be the way Heero is coping with Duo's unfortunate circumstances."
"He told me 'Duo' wanted me to have a toy model of Heavyarms."
"He told me the same thing when he gave me Shen-long."
"Is that all he does? Sit by Duo's bedside making toys?"
"No, sometimes he talks to him. Most of the time he just sits there holding Duo's hand."
"…and all of this is healthy?"
Wufei let out an exasperated sigh and cleared his throat before continuing.
"Trowa, we all talk to Maxwell. The doctors informed us that familiar voices might have a positive effect on his condition. I've even been bringing a book to read to him. As far as the models, Duo had a affection for the juvenile little things and in Yuy's mind they are working together on this miniature army of his…the important thing is that both of them are faring much better."
Trowa went silent for a moment. I just stared looking for signs of acknowledgment in Duo's pale face. If I could clearly make out their conversation, then Duo must be listening as well. I wonder if he'll think me as pathetic when he awakes?
"Can you update me on Duo's status?"
"If you would like…"
"Yes I would, Wufei. I'd also appreciate some time with him."
" Yuy and I have to meet Quatre for dinner soon, but you're more than welcome to stay as long as you'd like. The sofa pulls out if you want to spend the night…"
" That won't be possible. I have a show at eight."
Both of them went silent for a moment.
"How is … Quatre?"
Trowa's continually flat tone suddenly sounded uneasy. I smirked and muttered to Duo sarcastically, " How nice of him to finally ask."
Wufei paused again, presumably choosing his words carefully in this somewhat delicate situation.
"Busy, actually. Winner Enterprises has been rebuilding facilities both on Earth and in space for quite some time. All the projects keep him very occupied."
"I'm sure…"
Trowa went quiet again. Maybe he sensed the stern tone in Wufei's voice as I did. Something almost predatory…
"Well, perhaps we could all get together tomorrow? Howard and Hilde are flying in from L2."
"That could be pleasant. I'll see what my schedule allows."
The noise in the hallway ceased and Wufei appeared in the doorway.
"Heero, we have to get going if we're to arrive at six."
I nodded in affirmation and leaned over to brush my fingers over Duo's soft skin.
"I'll be back soon." I whispered in his ear before departing.
*** ***
We were to join Quatre at a casual dinner down the road. Rightfully named "The Comfort Diner" [1], it was a fairly low lit and filled with over sized booths. Greasy and inexpensive, the food offered wasn't what I'd usually expect to be Quatre's forte. However, the important thing was location, not quality.
Dinner proceeded rather well. Wufei scowled and picked at his meal of a Gyro and French fries.
"It won't bite you." Quatre quipped before taking another bite of his double cheeseburger.
"Hn. The food is unhealthy and poorly cooked."
"It's better than the hospital food." The young blonde offered, mouth full of beef.
I silently nibbled on my tuna sandwich, intently watching my friends' conversation. Quatre had been rambling on about a merger the company had been negotiating. Wufei had yet to offer any information regarding Torwa's visit. I couldn't decide if mentioning it would be a good idea. So, I nodded my head once and a while, consuming my meal. Neither of them seemed to mind.
By the time the waitress came to remove our plates, Quatre had finally finished with his account and took note of my silence.
"So Heero, what did you do today?"
"Duo and I worked on that Leo model for a while. It should be finished soon."
"Wonderful!" The blonde exclaimed, clapping his hands, " We'll add it our little collection. Just be sure you save Deathscythe for Duo."
I smiled, "I will. I still don't have one of Wing, the store had to order it."
So what if Duo and I were 'playing with toys'? Quatre and Chang didn't seem to have a problem with it. Neither Duo nor Myself had a very playful childhood. This was our way of having some kind of normal adolescence. Creating something for some one I cared for gave me such pleasure and a feeling of worth; the simple act of snapping together the delicate plastic pieces filled me with a great satisifaction.
"Well, that just means you're the most popular. Frankly, I'm jealous. " Quatre pretended to pout and Wufei rolled his eyes. I'm so lucky to have them both as friends.
"Heero, would you mind if I stayed at the hospital tonight?" Wufei asked, " I have to pick up Howard and Hildie tomorrow and I'd rather not drive all the way home and then back into the city."
I nodded in confirmation, trying to conceal my disappointment. Chang had been with Duo last night and it was my turn. I suppose it does make more sense though. Unfortunately, Quatre has an instinct about emotions.
"I don't see why the two of you can't just share. The bed's more than big enough for both of you."
The Chinese boy's eyes rolled again. "Quatre, you're beginning to sound an awful lot like our mother."
"Well, sometimes I think you act like you need one." He retorted, promptly sticking out his tongue.
The waitress returned with our check and being as the hour was getting late, Wufei declared that he and I best return to the hospital if he was going to get any sleep.
"We're still on for dinner tomorrow at my place, right?" Quatre inquired, embracing Wufei in a bear hug.
"Yes….we may have another guest joining us."
Those dark onyx eyes averted the questioning aqua pair.
"Who else? Is Howard bringing another colleague along?"
I wasn't sure if it was my place to speak. Wufei remained hushed as tension began to fill the air. From the look on Quatre's face, the young man had already deciphered the puzzle.
"Trowa's circus is in town this week…" He muttered dropping his head to gaze down at the pavement.
Chang stared back at him, obviously not too surprised. "You knew."
Not a question. A statement. Somehow the predatory tone in his voice earlier was beginning to fit.
"Ah. I've been keeping track of their shows for some time…"
Reaching out to place a both hands on the smaller boy's shoulders, Wufei took on a comforting tone.
" I didn't want to say anything until I was certain he'd come. I know the two of you have a history but he's here to visit with Duo while he does those circus performances. If you want me to un-invite him then I will. But, I do think the two of you need to have some kind of conversation before-"
Quatre shrugged him off and lifted his head to reveal tears of suffering and frenzy.
"You have to force this issue now, Wufei? Well let me make one thing abundantly clear, Yes, Trowa and I had a relationship. However, that doesn't have any affect on our current…"
Clearly, this conversation is not one I should be around for; so I turned my back and proceeded to walk back down the street, Quatre's wavering voice echoing in my ears. I checked my watch: eight fifteen. Burton should be long gone by now. Shoving my hands in the pockets of my jeans, I continued back to the hospital. I refuse to forcefully involve myself in this bizarre love triangle. If they want to talk, I'll be with Duo.
*** ***
The light reflected from the moon poured in the huge bay window and illuminated the curves of Duo's face. Once again, I sat silently watching my love sleep. Some of the radiance had returned to his skin over the past few weeks. The dark circles under his eyes had almost disappeared and even the texture of his skin and hair had improved. He still hadn't put on weight and the doctors had mentioned a need for physical therapy to increase muscle mass during recovery. Bathing in the moonlight, a smile forms on those peach lips before my eyes.
I used to question if Duo's beaming expression was simply to hide a life lived in fear and pain. After two wars, uncountable missions, and six blissful months of living with him, I made a discovery. Duo has as many different smiles as there are different types of fish in the sea. His mischievous smile is my favorite; one end of his lips slides up his cheek and his eyes sparkle a deep amethyst. His bashful grin is so cute; his eyes turn almost blue and his lips form a slightly curved line while his cheeks redden. That's usually followed by his sensual look. One eyebrow raises and his eyes fill with a deep purple while his lips part enough so that the top row of teeth slips over his bottom lip.
The masquerade expression is the easiest to pick out: his eyes appear lifeless. His lips are curving but his heart isn't behind it, and it pains me to believe that he does it not for himself, but for all four of us. With a group of brooding and burdened individuals such as us pilots, I suppose some one had to bring life and hope into our troop. All he ever asked me to do in the time I've known him is to 'lighten up', 'live a little', or 'smile'.
I can't fathom why he wasted so much time trying to bring happiness into my life. Why me out of all of us? I was no more deserving of his smiles and comfort than Wufei or Trowa. However, somehow he zeroed in on me. If he leaves me now he may never know how well he succeeded.
My thoughts were interrupted by a low groan from the sofa bed.
Wufei returned not long after I arrived and immediately flopped down on the pre-made double bed. From the amount of tossing I've observed over the past three hours, I'd say his conversation with Quatre hadn't ended well. I am concerned but unsure of how to address the situation. I have never truly been close to either of them, something with I hope will change in time; but Quatre has always been the comforting one. I suppose I'm the efficient and tactical one. I don't think this situation warrants the employment of my skills.
Sleep threatens to take me away soon and I wish I could just climb into Duo's bed and spend the night basking in his warmth. Unfortunately, I tried that once, and Quatre had to deal with a very displeased and confused group of medical professionals the next morning. If I climb into the sofa bed with Wufei at the moment I have no doubt I'll be kicked and punched all night as he wrestles around on the mattress. If I don't rest an already distraught blonde'll chew me out in the morning. It appears that the over-stuffed chair in the corner might be my best bet if I hope to rest at all this evening.
I ran my fingers through the loose chestnut strands, pausing to enjoy the silk against my skin. Duo's hair remained undone since not one of us could seem to braid it. Wufei and I had spent hours on the shuttle ride to earth attempting to achieve Duo's trademark hairstyle and only succeeded in thoroughly tangling the long wavy mass. The nurse had so much difficulty untangling the knotted heap that she had almost given up and cut it off. Thankfully Quatre took the time to brush and smooth out all the lumps.
Using only my thumb I traced a line from his forehead to his full pastel lips. A shiver trickled across my skin as the memory of one sweet dream kiss flooded back. The temptation to repeat the act was unbearable. All I have wanted every night when we've been alone is to take him a in an embrace and press my mouth to his. My dreams are filled with moments of ecstasy; when I take him in my arms and his eyes lock with mine.
Before I realized what action my body was taking, a gap of barely an inch separated my face from his. My blood boiled and my hands seem to move of their own will, sliding behind his head and raising his lips to connect with mine. It was a modest kiss, my first real kiss, and it was beautiful. The soft moist texture lingering beneath my own hungry jaw. Warmth tingled along my face and I reluctantly broke the embrace: brushing a few butterfly kisses on his cheek before finally pulling away. The soft incline of his face has turned slightly pink. If I didn't know better, I'd say he's blushing.
I yawned and stretched out before turning to proceed to my night's resting place. However, as I turned a swing caught me in the jaw, completely off guard. I promptly twisted around cradling the side of my face. Wufei stood not more than a foot away, eyes narrowed and fists clenched; he appeared set to kill.
"How dare you…" His eyes locked with mine, his voice sounded like a low growl.
"Wufei what in the hell…?"
"You had no right!"
Another fist came flying toward my face, witch I quickly dogged. Hand to hand combat with Wufei would not be an easy win. Further more, I was confused and possessed no desire to fight my friend. Somehow I keep finding myself faced with Chang's physical assaults quite frequently lately. I dogged several more of his blows until he finally got a leg around me and I lost balance to fall flat on my back.
"What the fuck were you thinking Yuy?! You have no right to do something like that without his consent!"
I gazed up at him dazed from the blow the floor inflicted on my cranium. "I don't understand… Why…?"
"You touched him in a sexual manner while he was unconscious! Don't you even care if that advance was reciprocated? You should know how he feels before you make a move like that! Do you want to make the same mistake I did?"
"I…."
Before I could form a complete sentence on of the monitors began producing an ear piercing pulse at a rapid pace. Chang's head snapped in the direction of the disturbance and I struggled to stand.
The sight on the hospital bed was both disturbingly painful and extremely beautiful. Duo sat up frantically attempting to remove various needles and electrode; violet eyes wide with panic. Duo Maxwell's eyes were open. After nearly a month of laying in what seemed like never-ending slumber, his eyes were open.
My heart leapt into my throat as my feet stayed glued in place. Wufei seemed just as immobile until a low whimper escaped Duo's lips. My body froze and my blood ran cold in panic. For a spit second I couldn't even breathe for fear this was all another dream.
"…hurts…"
Chang snapped to attention and rushed to Duo's side, placing his palm across the boy's forehead.
"He's burning up, Heero. I'll get the doctor. Stay!"
The Chinese boy dashed out the door and I decisively moved to hastily unplug the machinery producing that irritating high pitch wail.
"…. Hurts….. fuck…."
The ring of Duo's voice, although barely audible and distraught, brought tears unshed tears of joy to my eyes.
"Duo? Duo clam down. Wufei's getting the doctor."
"…doctor?"
"Yes doctor you're in the Hospital." I did my best to sound clam but the cold sweat forming on his brow alarmed me.
"…. Fei? ….. hospital…. Where..?"
Tears began to form at the corners of those beautiful eyes. Suppressing the desire to wrap my arms around him and kiss the salty droplets away, I reached out to wipe them away with my index finger.
"Yes, hospital."
" It hurts…."
"What hurts, Duo?"
"…. catheter…. get it out…. please…"
Nothing could contain the laughter that escaped my mouth.
Duo was awake.
Duo was alive.
I wrapped me arms around him and rubbed small circles along his back, hoping the contact would ease the pain. Although his body shook, possibly from the fever or the pain, the hold was reassuring. A small sigh of relief passed my lips as I could no longer block the tears.
"….Heero…?"
I choked back sobs of joy as he spoke my name. "It's ok. It's over. You're safe."
It's over.
Duo Maxwell will live.
TBC… ( not exactly sleeping beauty but * ppbbbbt * )
[1] Actual diner in New York City near the Metropolitan Museum of Art … they have good coffee… but my description doesn't match
A/N:
I know all the boy's sleeping with each other is a little cliché, for that I should apologize… but instead I blame my muse…
This took several tries before it turned into something I liked…so sorry for the late update…Not the longest chapter I've ever written, but longer than the others so I hope it was worth the wait… I don't know if Heero's behavior in this chapter is cute or disturbing? I thought it would be cute …. Review and let me know what you think!
Duo: what's this 'catheter' I keep hearing about?
Seraph: It's a tube they stick in your pee hole to drain your blatter when you're unconscious or in labor
Duo: 0.0
See that pretty little button down there… tempting, isn't it?
