West had listened carefully all afternoon for any sign of movement in the room next to his, but there had been none. Shortly after Noreen delivered a tray full of dinner, Jim decided to try and get out of bed on his own. Slowly, he pushed himself off the bed, grabbing hold of the nightstand for momentary support. He took a deep breath, and realized he felt surprisingly good....for about three seconds. Then the room began spinning and Jim West hit the floor with a thud.
Jim! Jim!
West was barely aware of the footsteps moving quickly toward him. Strong arms lifted him off the floor, and carefully placed him on the bed. He heard water being rung out of a cloth, and a moment later, Jim felt the cool compress on his forehead. The cloth was gently pressed against his face and throat. After a few minutes, his mind began to clear. His blue eyes fluttered open to see the worried brown ones staring at him.
What in the hell did you think you were doing?
Jim smiled slightly, Take it easy, Artie, I was just tired of sitting in bed. Didn't do any permanent damage, I'm okay.
Artie was relieved but also annoyed, Yeah, well.....just stay put, will ya? You'll be the end of my back if I have to pick you up again.
Gordon tossed the cloth into the basin on the nightstand, and stood up.
His voice was tinged once more with concern, Are you sure you're okay?
You worry too much, Artemus. I just stood up too fast, that's all. I'll be fine.
Get some rest, Jim.
Artie walked to the door, but Jim's voice stopped him.
Gordon looked at his friend, but West didn't say anything more.
What's the matter, Jim? Worry lined Artie's features as he quickly walked back to the bed, You all right?
Yeah.......but are you?
The dark brown eyes stared into the intense blue ones for a moment, then looked away.
Jim's voice was persistent, Artie, I know you--
Gordon held a hand up, stopping Jim from saying anything more, --Save it, James. I'll be fine. You need to concentrate on getting your strength back. Artie was at the door when he turned, And just remember what my great Aunt Maude always said, Behind every successful secret agent is a brokenhearted hack picking him up off the floor.'
But the door closed before Jim could say anything more.
***********
The sun wasn't up yet, but Artie couldn't sleep. He hadn't slept through most of the night. In the dark of the room, he pulled his pants on and went downstairs to make coffee. He was pouring himself the first cup when the noise from behind the door startled him. He turned, half expecting to see Noreen, but it was Bill who was standing there.
Bill.....up kinda early aren'tcha?
Heard someone down here, thought it was-- Bill licked his lips slightly, Well, didn't think it was you.
Bill moved past Artie and grabbed a cup. Gordon poured the man some coffee.
Gordon's voice was purposefully flat, I hope she'll sleep in.
The bartender looked sharply at the man, Considering she's been up most of the night cryin' that would be a good thing.
Artie reacted, What exactly are you trying to say, Bill?
The man stared hard at Gordon for a moment, like a man who might challenge him, but then the moment passed away. Bill drained the last of the coffee from his cup and set it down.
Nothing. I ain't sayin' nothing.
Gordon watched the man stalk out of the kitchen. A familiar but uncomfortable feeling began burning in his gut.
***********
