Part 5
Ray slowly opened his eyes, which were filled with panic because he realized that he wasn't breathing on his own. He tried to move his arms and he glanced at Peter, scared. Peter quickly grabbed his hand. Egon quickly went out to find a nurse.
"It's okay, Ray," Peter said soothingly as he held Ray's hand. "The doctor will take that out. Don't worry. We're all here, buddy."
Winston went up to Ray as well, tears in his eyes. "I-I can't do this, Peter," Winston said and left the room for a minute.
Peter glanced at Winston as he left with concern on his face. Then he glanced at Ray as Dr. Ling took the tube out of him. Ray started coughing a little and Peter squeezed his hand. Ray had tears in his eyes.
Dr. Ling reached for the pitcher on the nightstand and poured a glass of water. She then handed it to Peter. "Let him have some of this water, but have him drink it slowly."
Peter nodded as he took the glass and slowly lifted Ray's head. "Okay, kid. Here's some water for you. Now drink it slowly… Not too fast... Yeah, that's right, kid - nice and slow."
Ray slowly sipped the water. Then he pointed to his throat. Dr. Ling figured what he wanted. "You suffered a minor head injury and may have to be taught how to talk again and it will be slow, but we have a fine speech therapist," she told him.
Ray nodded with tears in his eyes. He still looked scared. He pointed to the pad of paper on the table and Egon handed it to him. "What is it, Raymond?" Egon asked.
"Winston? Where is he?" Ray wrote.
It looked like scribbles because he was still regaining his strength but Egon was able to figure it out. Egon glanced at Peter, uncertain.
"I'll be right back, Ray. I'll go find him," Peter said and Ray nodded.
Peter walked down the halls, looking for Winston. He found him in the chapel sitting in one of the pews and staring at the walls.
"Peter?" Winston asked.
You okay?" Peter glanced at him with raised eyebrows.
"Yeah. Um, just taking a breather I guess," Winston said, shrugging. "It's peaceful in here and I just needed to think."
Peter nodded. "Well, Ray needs you now. He's asking about you."
Winston sighed. "I can't face him, Peter. I just can't, after all that happened to him," he murmured, eyes watering.
Peter reached out and grabbed Winston by his collar. "Now you listen to me, Zeddemore! I'm getting a little tired of your self-pity. I accept and to a point expect it from Ray, but I won't accept it from you! Now you get your rear end back to his room and you see him! Or so help me, if you don't go on your own two legs, I'll carry you! Winston, that's no threat, trust me!"
Winston nodded, sighing and followed Peter back to Ray's room. Egon was holding Ray's hand while talking quietly to him. Ray raised his eyes as Winston came in. "Hey buddy," Winston said, going up to him.
Peter ushered Egon from the room as Winston took Ray's hand.
***
Winston's eyes watered as he held Ray Stantz's hand. "I'm so sorry about this pal," he said. "It's all my fault you got wrapped up in this mess."
Ray shook his head and pointed to the notebook. Winston handed it to him. "No, it's not, Winston. It's mine. I made you remember what happened," Ray wrote down.
Winston stared at Ray, astonished. He still believed everything Dwayne had said. "Ray, listen to me. You didn't do anything. Dwayne used you!"
Ray shook his head and wrote on the pad. "I'm useless - no good to anyone." He gave the pad back to Winston and turned away so Winston wouldn't see him cry.
Winston sighed. "Ray, it's okay, buddy. It's okay," he said, squeezing Ray's hand. "You are not useless! You do a lot for us and you've gotta know that." Ray kept his head turned away to hide the tears in his eyes.
"Please listen to me," Winston continued. "Dwayne was using you. He wanted to get you to believe those things. You're not going to let him win, are you? Please tell me you're not. We want you to be all right, buddy."
Ray didn't turn around and Winston sighed again. "So, Dwayne gets the last laugh after all. He wins." Winston got up to leave when suddenly there was a soft noise.
"W..W..in ..st... ?"
Winston hurried back over to Ray. "I'm here, Ray. I'm sorry. It's going to be okay."
Ray stared at Winston with tears in his eyes.
"I know I started to tell you what happened before, but I know you didn't really hear me, so why don't I tell you everything now?" Winston asked.
Ray nodded. Winston noticed he was sweating a little. Winston pulled the covers down a little. "Want me to get a doctor, Ray? You're sweating," Winston said.
Ray shook his head.
"Okay," Winston said. "Then I'll go ahead and start from the beginning."
Winston started from the beginning to tell Ray about his 'Nam experience. Ray's eyes went wide a few times as Winston spoke. When Winston was done, Ray wrote on the notebook again. "Gosh, Winston!"
Winston smiled a little, still holding Ray's hand, "I feel so bad, Tex. This shouldn't have happened to you," Winston said as he closed his eyes.
"Not your fault," Ray wrote. "Dwayne's fault."
Winston smiled. "Yeah," he said, finally trying to believe it. "I'm going to get a doctor, buddy. I think you've got a fever."
Ray shrugged, looking like he didn't care too much about it as Winston left him alone to get the doctor.
Winston quickly returned with Dr Ling and the rest of the guys. All four of Ray's friends hovered nearby. "Please! I need to examine my patient. I want you all to wait outside."
The group quietly left as Dr. Ling checked Ray over. "Your fever isn't as high as it was, but it needs to go down to normal. I'm going to give you something to bring the fever down. It will make you sleep."
Ray nodded as he watched her put medicine in his IV. The medicine quickly took effect and he fell into a restful sleep. Dr. Ling left the room and saw his friends waiting nearby. "I gave him something for the fever. He's sleeping now. Why don't you all go to your hotel and come back in to morning?"
Winston shook his head. "I want to stay."
Dr. Ling shook her head in disagreement. "No, he's sleeping now and you need rest. Come back in the morning."
Knowing that they had no choice, The Ghostbusters left and went to their hotel that was across from the hospital.
The next morning the guys woke up refreshed with the exception of Winston, who had nightmares all night. Peter went up to him a few times, but Winston didn't want to talk about it. During breakfast, Peter glanced at Winston. "You all right, Winston?" Peter asked.
"I'm fine, Peter," Winston said quickly.
Egon glanced at the two of them and they went back to the hospital after they finished breakfast. Dr. Ling let them see Ray this time.
"Hi Ray," Janine said, smiling.
Ray smiled weakly at her.
.
Ray looked around as he sat up in bed and stared at his legs, seeing that both were in a cast. He sighed, not remembering how they both got broken, but he knew it would be a long time before he would walk again. Suddenly, the group heard a loud bang against the window.
"I don't believe this!" exclaimed Peter as he looked at the green-splattered window.
Egon laughed. "He must have followed Janine and Winston back. Let him in, Peter."
Peter shook his head and opened the window. Slimer shot in like he had been shot from a cannon and splattered green goo all over Ray, raining him with slimy kisses.
"Ray!" Slimer said excitedly - he was so glad to see Ray.
"Easy Spud," Peter said. "Ray can't talk just yet, okay? So go easy with him."
Ray smiled a little, shaking his head. Winston glanced at Egon who was smiling at the reunion between the ghost and occultist.
"If Slimer doesn't cheer him up, nothing will," Janine whispered to Egon as Slimer hugged Ray.
Dr. Ling walked into the room, her mouth dropping open in surprise. "Who - WHAT is this?" she asked as she stared at Slimer. The guys quickly explained. Dr. Ling looked upset. "He can't be in here," she said. "I want him out now! Ray's too sick for this."
The guys nodded and ushered Slimer out.
"Sorry Slimer," Peter said. "Humans only."
"Peter!" Janine snapped. "Come on, Slimer. Let's go to the cafeteria."
"Yeah! Yeah! Yeah!" Slimer said.
"Hey, what did I say?" asked Peter, looking at his friends. "It IS humans only and Slimer doesn't qualify."
Winston shook his head. "I have no idea, man."
:"Gentlemen, this is Dr. Soo. He is going to help Ray with his speech," Dr. Ling introduced the man who came in behind her.
Dr Soo looked at The Ghostbusters and shook his head. "In private. I don't work with people here to laugh at my patient."
"Dr Soo, we would never laugh at Raymond," said Egon.
Dr Soo nodded, seeing the sincere look in Egon's eyes, and the lesson began.
*****
Three weeks later, Ray was released and the group was getting ready to return to New York. Winston was helping Ray get ready. "I bet you're ready to go home, huh homeboy?"
"Yes.... I'mmmm…rrr.ready. "
"Hey, shake a leg! Uh sorry, Ray. Egon and Janine have the cab to go to the airport. It's finally time to come back to New York!" cried Peter. He then wrapped his arm around Ray's shoulder. "We're finally going home, Ray!"
"Yes, PPPeter. Home."
****
Peter helped arrange Ray's wheelchair on the plane. He put it in a closet that was across from the seat he was sitting in. "How you doing, buddy?"
Ray smiled at Peter. "FFFFine." He looked out the window. "GGGLad hhhome."
"Yeah. Me too, buddy." Peter smiled at Ray.
Peter placed his hand on Ray's knee. "You look troubled. Care to talk?"
Ray shook his head. "Hard tttalk."
"I know, kid. I know. It's been hard on you, huh?"
Ray nodded and then looked towards Winston, who was sleeping. "WWWinston hhard onnn hhhim mmmore."
Peter nodded. "Yeah. I know it is, buddy," he replied. "I know, but we've gotta be there for him, okay? And you'll let us be there for you?"
Ray closed his eyes but nodded. "Y-Yes Pppp-Peter-hhhate tthis."
"I know, Tex, but you'll get back to normal soon. don't worry, and we'll all help you," Peter said, putting a hand on Ray's shoulder.
Ray nodded, sighing. "Ssslimmer? Wwwhhheree?"
"I think he's riding the wing again," Peter said. "Seems all my peanuts were eaten."
Ray smiled, nodding.
Peter smiled back. "You get some rest, Kid. We're almost home."
Ray shook his head. "Ttttired of rrresting."
"Okay, Tex."
Egon looked over to Peter. "How is he?"
"III ccan ssspeak mmmyself jjjust ffine."
Peter laughed, "Well, you heard the man, Egon. He's fine."
Egon nodded and smiled at Ray. "Yes, Peter. I can see that."
Ray returned a smile at Egon.
****
The plane finally landed and after going through Customs and picking up their luggage, Winston hailed them a cab and they went back to the firehouse. "Man, it's good to be home!" Winston said.
Peter nodded. "It sure is. Okay, Ray. We have to get you upstairs."
Ray nodded, glancing at the steps.
We should have a ramp in here for you-" Peter started to say.
"Oh Peter," Janine said after she finished checking the machines. "The people that were gonna put the ramp in can't come until tomorrow."
"What?!" Peter cried angrily. "I told them we needed it today!"
"Easy Peter," Egon said. "We will simply carry Raymond up today."
Ray blushed, sighing. Winston smiled. "Come on, buddy," he said as he picked Ray up and took him up the stairs
Peter followed Winston and helped Ray get settled. He smiled as he handed Ray his Stay Puft stuffed toy. "Ttttthank yyyyou." Ray said weakly.
Peter nodded smiling, "Anytime kiddo," he said.
Winston left for a while. Peter smiled and sat down next to Ray. "Ray, not now, but tomorrow, I'd like to talk to you sometime, okay?"
Ray looked down at the ground for a second. "Oookay," he finally said.
Peter nodded, smiling. "Thanks, buddy. You get some rest, okay?"
Ray nodded and closed his eyes. Peter stayed by him until he fell asleep.
The next morning, Ray woke up and sighed. He looked over at the guys and saw that they all were sleeping. They each took turns taking him to the bathroom. How long was this going to go on? I can't even go to the bathroom by myself and I've got to go again! Ray thought to himself.
Ray sighed again. He didn't want to wake up Peter, because he knew Peter liked to sleep late. He didn't really want to wake anybody up. He saw his wheelchair close by and grabbed it. He tried to pull himself onto it, but fell on the floor with a THUMP!
Winston opened his eyes slowly and saw Ray sitting on the floor. "Ray?" Winston asked as he got up.
Egon also heard the commotion, rose to his feet and walked over to Ray. "Are you okay, Raymond?" Egon asked and Ray nodded.
"What happened, buddy?" Winston asked
Ray blushed, embarrassed. "Ummm, heeelllpp?" he asked.
Winston nodded, knowing automatically what Ray needed. He helped Ray into the chair and wheeled him to the bathroom. Then when Ray was done, he helped him back in bed.
"Sssooorrrryyy. Thhaannkks," Ray whispered.
"Don't worry about it, buddy. Just get some sleep, okay?" Winston smiled.
Ray returned the smile and closed his eyes.
That morning, Egon was up fixing breakfast. Peter came down the stair running his fingers through his hair. He walked into the kitchen and saw Egon frying bacon. Peter grabbed a piece then turned to his friend and asked, "When did Janine say the workers for the ramp will be in?"
Egon pointed over to where Winston was hammering away. "They're not coming Winston fired them. He's building it. Said he wants in done by the time Ray's up."
Peter nodded and went over to him. "Need help?"
Winston looked up. "Sure. Grab a hammer."
"Okay, but we've got to make this quick. I want to talk to Ray."
Egon walked over to Peter. "Why don't you give Ray a bath and have your talk with him?"
Peter nodded and headed upstairs. Ray was still sleeping so Peter sat by his bed until he woke up. Ray smiled when he saw Peter sitting there. "Mmooorrrning, Ppetter…" Ray said.
"Morning, buddy. I thought I'd help you get ready," Peter said.
Ray nodded, smiling.
Peter carefully removed Ray's top. "So, you mind me giving you a sponge bath? I'm not one of those pretty nurses."
"Nnnooo. Ddddoonn'tt mmmind."
Peter slowly began to wash Ray's back. "So, do you want to talk about what happened?"
Ray shook his head.
"Okay, then let's talk about something else."
Ray nodded. Wwwannt tooo tttalk nnnormmalll"
"You will, Ray - in time."
"NNOoooo nnnooowww!"
Peter gave him a hug. "You will, kid. Soon. I promise, and you know I've never ever broke a promise to you." Ray sighed. Peter stood up. "Okay, now what do you want to put on today?"
"Clllottthes."
"Very funny, Stantz. How about your brown pants, white shirt, and green vest?"
"SSSurrre whhatttevvver."
Peter helped Ray get his shirt and pants on.
"What do you want to do today?" Peter asked making light conversation.
Ray shrugged. "Cccannn'ttt dooo muccchhh…"
"Well, we can have a Star Wars movie fest if you want," Peter smiled. "I know how much you like those movies."
Ray shrugged again. He looked away from Peter. "Kknnnooowwww whhatttt yyyooouuu wwwannnttt…" he muttered.
"You do?" Peter asked "And what's that?"
"Toooo….taaalllkkkk…." Ray closed his eyes.
Peter put a hand on Ray's shoulder. "Yeah, but I don't want to force you to."
Ray glanced at Peter and wiped his eyes.
Peter stood up. "I know this is hard."
"NNooo yooouuu dddoonn'tt! Ttttheeyyy hhhuurrt mmmeee, PPPeeetterrr."
Winston suddenly walked in. "Man, what do you think you're doing to Ray?"
Peter turned towards Winston. "My job. I'm trying to get Ray to talk about this."
"Your job is busting ghosts. Leave him alone!"
"He needs to talk about this, Winston."
"No! I said leave him alone." Winston turned to Ray. "You hungry, home boy? Egon said breakfast is ready." Ray nodded. "Okay, then. I've got to carry you again. The ramp isn't ready."
Ray shook his head. "Nnnooo… Bbbriinng fffood hhheerre."
Winston nodded. "Sure, buddy," he said and glanced at Peter.
Peter kept his mouth shut not and walked from the room, surprised at Winston's reaction to him trying to help Ray out. Peter went into his office and made a phone call to a psychologist he knew who might be able to help Ray. But first, Peter was determined to try to get Ray to talk to him.
Meanwhile Winston brought breakfast up for Ray. Ray smiled a little at him. "Ttthhhaaannnkkk yyyyoouuu," he said.
"Anytime," Winston said, smiling, and started to leave.
"Wwwiinnnsttttooonn?" Ray tried.
Winston turned around.
Ray was picking at his food. "Yyyoouu oookkaayy?"
Winston took a chair and sat down beside Ray. "Yeah, I'm fine."
Ray shook his head. "Nnnooo! I mmmeeean, aaarreee yyyoouuu okkaayy?"
"I'm fine," Winston answered stubbornly.
"Hhhhooww? I'mm nnnoott."
"Ray, then you need to talk to Peter. I'm not Peter."
"Nnnnnoooo! Yoooouuu!"
"Why me?"
"Yooouuu weeerre theerree."
"Y-Yeah. I was," Winston muttered, looking at the floor. "Ray, I don't want you to feel forced to talk about this, okay? Because to be truthful, I don't really want to even remember it."
Ray nodded, not saying anything. He picked a little more at his food. Winston walked over to the window and stared outside at the city. Ray looked at him but didn't say anything.
Ray wasn't sure what to do. He wanted to talk to Winston, but Winston didn't want to seem to talk, so for now he continued to keep quiet. Ray's eyes watered a little. He tried to stop them, but he couldn't help it. Winston turned around and saw.
"Ray?" Winston asked, walking back over to him and sitting next to him.
Ray looked away from Winston.
Winston got up. "Come on. It's time you got out of that bed and take a look outside. Would you like to go outside? I'll have that ramp done by this afternoon."
Ray shook his head. "I'll ssttaayy heerre."
"Nope. No can do," Winston replied as he helped Ray into the wheelchair. "Now you can watch me." Ray half-watched as Winston finished up the ramp. "Okay. Now for a test run. You ready?"
Ray looked but said nothing.
"Yeah. I guess that means yes." Winston took hold of the back of the wheelchair.
"I"lll dooo iitt. Noottt heellppless!" Ray snapped as he grabbed hold of the wheels.
"Okay, buddy. You do it." Ray nodded as he started down the ramp with Winston close behind. He made it to the bottom. Everyone cheered as Ray smiled.
Egon smiled at Ray. "Raymond, do you wish to go for a walk with us?"
Ray returned the smile, knowing Egon didn't mean any harm.
"Come on. I'm coming too," Janine said, putting her coat on
Ray nodded and rolled himself towards the door. Egon smiled as he grabbed the handles of the wheelchair. They decided to just walk around the block..
****
Peter watched them go then closed the door and turned to Winston. "Dwight's coming over to have a talk with Ray. He said it may be a good idea if you stay and talk too."
"No way, man! It's none of his business!"
"Winston, Ray needs to talk but he won't unless you do too. Come on. If you can't do it for yourself, do it for Ray. After all, it is your fau..."
Winston's mild brown eyes sparkled with momentary anger. "Go on! Say it, Peter! You've been dying to! It was my fault!"
Peter had the grace to look embarrassed. "I'm sorry, Winston. It just slipped out," he mumbled.
The anger left Winston's eyes. "I know, man. I'll talk to Dwight. Is he good?"
"Dwight Summers is one of the best - next to me, of course."
"Ha! Peter, I could run circles around you. How are you doing, Venkman?"
"Hey, Dwight. Come on in. I'd like you to meet Winston Zeddemore, a great friend of mine."
"Glad to meet you, Winston."
"Yeah, same here. Can you help Ray?"
"I'm going to try and maybe you too."
Winston looked at the floor, not saying a word. At that point, Egon, Janine, and Ray came back inside from the cold.
"Whoa!" Janine exclaimed. "It's pretty cold out there!"
"Yes it is," Egon agreed. "Hello, Dwight."
"Hello Egon," Dwight said, shaking his hand.
Ray didn't say anything as Dwight went over to him. "Hello, Ray. It's good to see you again," Dwight said and tried to shake Ray's hand.
Ray folded his arms and tried to roll himself upstairs, but Peter stopped him. "Ray, wait-" Peter started to say.
Nnooo!" Ray said angrily. "Yyyyooouuu thhiiinnnkkk Iiiii'mmm cccrrrraazzzyyy? Ddddooonnnn't yyyooouuu?"
"Of course not, Ray, but you need to talk about what happened," Peter said. "Since you won't talk to me, maybe it would help to talk to someone who doesn't know anything about this."
Ray shook his head tearfully. "Lllleeeavvvveeee mmmmmeeee aaaaaalllooonnneee…" Ray said and wheeled himself upstairs
Peter sighed. "I'm sorry, Dwight."
"Hey, don't worry. I'll get him to talk," Dwight said. "When should we meet?"
"Tomorrow," Peter said.
"Sorry, Peter. I've got a busy day tomorrow with other clients. How about next Tuesday?"
"Okay, Dwight. Next week."
Egon looked up the stairs. "I'm going to talk to Ray."
"You three have done enough talking to Ray. I'll talk to him. Right now, he needs a woman's touch."
None of the group said anything as Janine went upstairs and walked inside the bedroom to find Ray sitting on his bed, the wheelchair turned over on the floor. She hurried over to pick it up.
"Leave it."
Janine looked up and stared at Ray in surprise. "You're speaking normally!"
"Yeah, I know. I was doing a Peter and the wheelchair fell over, and the next thing I know, I'm on the floor. I remember hitting my head real hard and then I blacked out for a moment or two. I guess I must've hit something back in place."
"Ray, are you okay?"
"I wish everyone would stop asking me that! No, I'm not okay! My career as a Ghostbuster is over."
"Why would you think that?" Janine asked.
"Why?" Ray laughed. "Look at me, Janine! Thanks to that monster Dwayne, I can't walk anymore."
"The doctor said that's only temporary."
"Sure it is! Tell Peter to tell Dwight to go where the sun doesn't shine! I'm not talking to him!" Ray yelled.
Ray Stantz, since when are you a quitter?" Janine asked angrily.
"What are you talking about?" Ray asked, looking away.
"I've never known you to quit like this. Dwight's not here because the guys think that you're crazy. He wants to help you and Winston too," Janine said, folding her arms over her chest.
"I don't care!" Ray snapped. "He doesn't understand. He wasn't there and I'm not going to talk to a complete stranger about this!" he yelled.
"He's not a stranger. You all knew him from college."
"Peter and Egon knew him! I've only met him once!"
"Fine! Then just give up!" Janine snapped and walked outside.
"Maybe I will!" Ray snapped angrily and had tears in his eyes as he listened to Janine's footsteps echo down the hall. Ray sighed as he wiped his eyes. He knew he would have to give Peter his resignation soon. He got out a pad of paper and started to write it, fiercely blinking away the tears in his eyes.
Janine hurried downstairs and walked over to her desk. "Fine! He can be that way," she mumbled under her breath.
Egon stared at her. "I see it didn't go so well. Maybe I should talk to Raymond."
Janine jumped up and began pacing back and forth. "Yeah! Why don't you go try talking to Mr. Self Pity? Now he thinks that he's washed-up as a Ghostbuster."
Peter looked over at her. "Why would he think that?"
"Because," she snarled, "he doesn't believe he'll ever walk again."
"That's just plain silly! Why would he think that?" Peter asked.
Egon turned around without saying a word and went upstairs. He walked into the room and saw that the wheelchair was still turned over. He went over to it and put it upright before turning around to face Ray. "Get into your wheelchair. You and I are going to go see your aunt."
"No."
"I see that your speech has improved. Now get in that chair."
"I can't. I need help."
Egon shook his head. "I said get in and get in now."
Ray stared at him. "I can't! I need help!"
Egon shook his head. "You won't get it from me, Raymond."
Ray tried getting into the wheelchair, but fell flat on the floor again. He had tears in his eyes and he turned away from Egon so he wouldn't see. "Thanks a lot," Ray muttered.
Egon walked out, slamming the door behind him and then standing in front of it, breathing heavily.
The other three ran up the stairs. "What happened?" Winston demanded.
"Nothing. Just helping Ray take his first step."
"What do you mean, Egon?" Peter asked.
"I've got everything under control. Please go back downstairs."
Peter started to say something but the look in Egon eyes stopped him. "Okay Spengs, but I hope you know what you're doing."
As they went back downstairs, Egon open the door to a crack so he could watch. Ray turned himself over and grabbed hold of the wheelchair. It was a struggle, but eventually, he was able to get himself in the chair. Egon then opened the door fully and walked inside. "See? You did it on your own."
"No thanks to you."
"You didn't need my help. Now let's go see your aunt."
Ray folded his arms in frustration before he rolled himself down the ramp, out the firehouse and over to Ecto. He pulled himself from the wheelchair as Winston held it steady for him and got into the back seat. Once he had his seat belt fastened, Winston folded up the wheelchair and placed it in the back of Ecto.
The others got in and Peter drove them to Aunt Lois's place. They got out and once the wheelchair was taken from the back of Ecto, unfolded and wheeled over, Ray pulled himself into the wheelchair and looked up at the house as Peter shut the door where Ray had been seated. Egon walked up the stairs leading to the front door and knocked. They waited for a short time until Aunt Lois came to the door.
"Hi Ray's Aunt Lois," Egon said with a smile.
"Hello Egon," she replied. "Peter, Winston," she nodded at all three of them
Ray was being quiet. Peter could tell that he was embarrassed.
"Aren't you going to say hello to your aunt, Ray?" Aunt Lois asked him.
Ray blushed. "Hi, Aunt Lois. Sorry," he said.
"Never mind," she said. "Come inside, all of you. It's cold out."
Ray stared at the stairs. There was no way he was going to get the wheelchair up there. "Peter and I will go around the back."
"Sure, kid."
Once inside, everyone had a nice time. Even Ray was more cheerful but the day ended too soon and they all went home where Slimer greeted them. The week went by too quickly for Ray when he woke up Tuesday morning. Before he knew it, Ecto was parked outside Dwight Summers' office. After getting Ray in, the other three Ghostbusters waited until they would be needed.
Dwight sat down beside Ray. "So Ray, tell me how you feel."
"Angry. Upset. Confused. How AM I supposed to feel?"
"I see - and who are you angry at?"
Ray gulped. He didn't want to say.
"Ray?"
"Winston."
"And why are you upset with Winston?"
Ray turned away. "He could've stopped that man from hurting me."
"I see and that's also why you are upset and confused?"
Ray nodded. "Why didn't he find me in time? Why did he let that maniac hurt me?"
TBC
Ray slowly opened his eyes, which were filled with panic because he realized that he wasn't breathing on his own. He tried to move his arms and he glanced at Peter, scared. Peter quickly grabbed his hand. Egon quickly went out to find a nurse.
"It's okay, Ray," Peter said soothingly as he held Ray's hand. "The doctor will take that out. Don't worry. We're all here, buddy."
Winston went up to Ray as well, tears in his eyes. "I-I can't do this, Peter," Winston said and left the room for a minute.
Peter glanced at Winston as he left with concern on his face. Then he glanced at Ray as Dr. Ling took the tube out of him. Ray started coughing a little and Peter squeezed his hand. Ray had tears in his eyes.
Dr. Ling reached for the pitcher on the nightstand and poured a glass of water. She then handed it to Peter. "Let him have some of this water, but have him drink it slowly."
Peter nodded as he took the glass and slowly lifted Ray's head. "Okay, kid. Here's some water for you. Now drink it slowly… Not too fast... Yeah, that's right, kid - nice and slow."
Ray slowly sipped the water. Then he pointed to his throat. Dr. Ling figured what he wanted. "You suffered a minor head injury and may have to be taught how to talk again and it will be slow, but we have a fine speech therapist," she told him.
Ray nodded with tears in his eyes. He still looked scared. He pointed to the pad of paper on the table and Egon handed it to him. "What is it, Raymond?" Egon asked.
"Winston? Where is he?" Ray wrote.
It looked like scribbles because he was still regaining his strength but Egon was able to figure it out. Egon glanced at Peter, uncertain.
"I'll be right back, Ray. I'll go find him," Peter said and Ray nodded.
Peter walked down the halls, looking for Winston. He found him in the chapel sitting in one of the pews and staring at the walls.
"Peter?" Winston asked.
You okay?" Peter glanced at him with raised eyebrows.
"Yeah. Um, just taking a breather I guess," Winston said, shrugging. "It's peaceful in here and I just needed to think."
Peter nodded. "Well, Ray needs you now. He's asking about you."
Winston sighed. "I can't face him, Peter. I just can't, after all that happened to him," he murmured, eyes watering.
Peter reached out and grabbed Winston by his collar. "Now you listen to me, Zeddemore! I'm getting a little tired of your self-pity. I accept and to a point expect it from Ray, but I won't accept it from you! Now you get your rear end back to his room and you see him! Or so help me, if you don't go on your own two legs, I'll carry you! Winston, that's no threat, trust me!"
Winston nodded, sighing and followed Peter back to Ray's room. Egon was holding Ray's hand while talking quietly to him. Ray raised his eyes as Winston came in. "Hey buddy," Winston said, going up to him.
Peter ushered Egon from the room as Winston took Ray's hand.
***
Winston's eyes watered as he held Ray Stantz's hand. "I'm so sorry about this pal," he said. "It's all my fault you got wrapped up in this mess."
Ray shook his head and pointed to the notebook. Winston handed it to him. "No, it's not, Winston. It's mine. I made you remember what happened," Ray wrote down.
Winston stared at Ray, astonished. He still believed everything Dwayne had said. "Ray, listen to me. You didn't do anything. Dwayne used you!"
Ray shook his head and wrote on the pad. "I'm useless - no good to anyone." He gave the pad back to Winston and turned away so Winston wouldn't see him cry.
Winston sighed. "Ray, it's okay, buddy. It's okay," he said, squeezing Ray's hand. "You are not useless! You do a lot for us and you've gotta know that." Ray kept his head turned away to hide the tears in his eyes.
"Please listen to me," Winston continued. "Dwayne was using you. He wanted to get you to believe those things. You're not going to let him win, are you? Please tell me you're not. We want you to be all right, buddy."
Ray didn't turn around and Winston sighed again. "So, Dwayne gets the last laugh after all. He wins." Winston got up to leave when suddenly there was a soft noise.
"W..W..in ..st... ?"
Winston hurried back over to Ray. "I'm here, Ray. I'm sorry. It's going to be okay."
Ray stared at Winston with tears in his eyes.
"I know I started to tell you what happened before, but I know you didn't really hear me, so why don't I tell you everything now?" Winston asked.
Ray nodded. Winston noticed he was sweating a little. Winston pulled the covers down a little. "Want me to get a doctor, Ray? You're sweating," Winston said.
Ray shook his head.
"Okay," Winston said. "Then I'll go ahead and start from the beginning."
Winston started from the beginning to tell Ray about his 'Nam experience. Ray's eyes went wide a few times as Winston spoke. When Winston was done, Ray wrote on the notebook again. "Gosh, Winston!"
Winston smiled a little, still holding Ray's hand, "I feel so bad, Tex. This shouldn't have happened to you," Winston said as he closed his eyes.
"Not your fault," Ray wrote. "Dwayne's fault."
Winston smiled. "Yeah," he said, finally trying to believe it. "I'm going to get a doctor, buddy. I think you've got a fever."
Ray shrugged, looking like he didn't care too much about it as Winston left him alone to get the doctor.
Winston quickly returned with Dr Ling and the rest of the guys. All four of Ray's friends hovered nearby. "Please! I need to examine my patient. I want you all to wait outside."
The group quietly left as Dr. Ling checked Ray over. "Your fever isn't as high as it was, but it needs to go down to normal. I'm going to give you something to bring the fever down. It will make you sleep."
Ray nodded as he watched her put medicine in his IV. The medicine quickly took effect and he fell into a restful sleep. Dr. Ling left the room and saw his friends waiting nearby. "I gave him something for the fever. He's sleeping now. Why don't you all go to your hotel and come back in to morning?"
Winston shook his head. "I want to stay."
Dr. Ling shook her head in disagreement. "No, he's sleeping now and you need rest. Come back in the morning."
Knowing that they had no choice, The Ghostbusters left and went to their hotel that was across from the hospital.
The next morning the guys woke up refreshed with the exception of Winston, who had nightmares all night. Peter went up to him a few times, but Winston didn't want to talk about it. During breakfast, Peter glanced at Winston. "You all right, Winston?" Peter asked.
"I'm fine, Peter," Winston said quickly.
Egon glanced at the two of them and they went back to the hospital after they finished breakfast. Dr. Ling let them see Ray this time.
"Hi Ray," Janine said, smiling.
Ray smiled weakly at her.
.
Ray looked around as he sat up in bed and stared at his legs, seeing that both were in a cast. He sighed, not remembering how they both got broken, but he knew it would be a long time before he would walk again. Suddenly, the group heard a loud bang against the window.
"I don't believe this!" exclaimed Peter as he looked at the green-splattered window.
Egon laughed. "He must have followed Janine and Winston back. Let him in, Peter."
Peter shook his head and opened the window. Slimer shot in like he had been shot from a cannon and splattered green goo all over Ray, raining him with slimy kisses.
"Ray!" Slimer said excitedly - he was so glad to see Ray.
"Easy Spud," Peter said. "Ray can't talk just yet, okay? So go easy with him."
Ray smiled a little, shaking his head. Winston glanced at Egon who was smiling at the reunion between the ghost and occultist.
"If Slimer doesn't cheer him up, nothing will," Janine whispered to Egon as Slimer hugged Ray.
Dr. Ling walked into the room, her mouth dropping open in surprise. "Who - WHAT is this?" she asked as she stared at Slimer. The guys quickly explained. Dr. Ling looked upset. "He can't be in here," she said. "I want him out now! Ray's too sick for this."
The guys nodded and ushered Slimer out.
"Sorry Slimer," Peter said. "Humans only."
"Peter!" Janine snapped. "Come on, Slimer. Let's go to the cafeteria."
"Yeah! Yeah! Yeah!" Slimer said.
"Hey, what did I say?" asked Peter, looking at his friends. "It IS humans only and Slimer doesn't qualify."
Winston shook his head. "I have no idea, man."
:"Gentlemen, this is Dr. Soo. He is going to help Ray with his speech," Dr. Ling introduced the man who came in behind her.
Dr Soo looked at The Ghostbusters and shook his head. "In private. I don't work with people here to laugh at my patient."
"Dr Soo, we would never laugh at Raymond," said Egon.
Dr Soo nodded, seeing the sincere look in Egon's eyes, and the lesson began.
*****
Three weeks later, Ray was released and the group was getting ready to return to New York. Winston was helping Ray get ready. "I bet you're ready to go home, huh homeboy?"
"Yes.... I'mmmm…rrr.ready. "
"Hey, shake a leg! Uh sorry, Ray. Egon and Janine have the cab to go to the airport. It's finally time to come back to New York!" cried Peter. He then wrapped his arm around Ray's shoulder. "We're finally going home, Ray!"
"Yes, PPPeter. Home."
****
Peter helped arrange Ray's wheelchair on the plane. He put it in a closet that was across from the seat he was sitting in. "How you doing, buddy?"
Ray smiled at Peter. "FFFFine." He looked out the window. "GGGLad hhhome."
"Yeah. Me too, buddy." Peter smiled at Ray.
Peter placed his hand on Ray's knee. "You look troubled. Care to talk?"
Ray shook his head. "Hard tttalk."
"I know, kid. I know. It's been hard on you, huh?"
Ray nodded and then looked towards Winston, who was sleeping. "WWWinston hhard onnn hhhim mmmore."
Peter nodded. "Yeah. I know it is, buddy," he replied. "I know, but we've gotta be there for him, okay? And you'll let us be there for you?"
Ray closed his eyes but nodded. "Y-Yes Pppp-Peter-hhhate tthis."
"I know, Tex, but you'll get back to normal soon. don't worry, and we'll all help you," Peter said, putting a hand on Ray's shoulder.
Ray nodded, sighing. "Ssslimmer? Wwwhhheree?"
"I think he's riding the wing again," Peter said. "Seems all my peanuts were eaten."
Ray smiled, nodding.
Peter smiled back. "You get some rest, Kid. We're almost home."
Ray shook his head. "Ttttired of rrresting."
"Okay, Tex."
Egon looked over to Peter. "How is he?"
"III ccan ssspeak mmmyself jjjust ffine."
Peter laughed, "Well, you heard the man, Egon. He's fine."
Egon nodded and smiled at Ray. "Yes, Peter. I can see that."
Ray returned a smile at Egon.
****
The plane finally landed and after going through Customs and picking up their luggage, Winston hailed them a cab and they went back to the firehouse. "Man, it's good to be home!" Winston said.
Peter nodded. "It sure is. Okay, Ray. We have to get you upstairs."
Ray nodded, glancing at the steps.
We should have a ramp in here for you-" Peter started to say.
"Oh Peter," Janine said after she finished checking the machines. "The people that were gonna put the ramp in can't come until tomorrow."
"What?!" Peter cried angrily. "I told them we needed it today!"
"Easy Peter," Egon said. "We will simply carry Raymond up today."
Ray blushed, sighing. Winston smiled. "Come on, buddy," he said as he picked Ray up and took him up the stairs
Peter followed Winston and helped Ray get settled. He smiled as he handed Ray his Stay Puft stuffed toy. "Ttttthank yyyyou." Ray said weakly.
Peter nodded smiling, "Anytime kiddo," he said.
Winston left for a while. Peter smiled and sat down next to Ray. "Ray, not now, but tomorrow, I'd like to talk to you sometime, okay?"
Ray looked down at the ground for a second. "Oookay," he finally said.
Peter nodded, smiling. "Thanks, buddy. You get some rest, okay?"
Ray nodded and closed his eyes. Peter stayed by him until he fell asleep.
The next morning, Ray woke up and sighed. He looked over at the guys and saw that they all were sleeping. They each took turns taking him to the bathroom. How long was this going to go on? I can't even go to the bathroom by myself and I've got to go again! Ray thought to himself.
Ray sighed again. He didn't want to wake up Peter, because he knew Peter liked to sleep late. He didn't really want to wake anybody up. He saw his wheelchair close by and grabbed it. He tried to pull himself onto it, but fell on the floor with a THUMP!
Winston opened his eyes slowly and saw Ray sitting on the floor. "Ray?" Winston asked as he got up.
Egon also heard the commotion, rose to his feet and walked over to Ray. "Are you okay, Raymond?" Egon asked and Ray nodded.
"What happened, buddy?" Winston asked
Ray blushed, embarrassed. "Ummm, heeelllpp?" he asked.
Winston nodded, knowing automatically what Ray needed. He helped Ray into the chair and wheeled him to the bathroom. Then when Ray was done, he helped him back in bed.
"Sssooorrrryyy. Thhaannkks," Ray whispered.
"Don't worry about it, buddy. Just get some sleep, okay?" Winston smiled.
Ray returned the smile and closed his eyes.
That morning, Egon was up fixing breakfast. Peter came down the stair running his fingers through his hair. He walked into the kitchen and saw Egon frying bacon. Peter grabbed a piece then turned to his friend and asked, "When did Janine say the workers for the ramp will be in?"
Egon pointed over to where Winston was hammering away. "They're not coming Winston fired them. He's building it. Said he wants in done by the time Ray's up."
Peter nodded and went over to him. "Need help?"
Winston looked up. "Sure. Grab a hammer."
"Okay, but we've got to make this quick. I want to talk to Ray."
Egon walked over to Peter. "Why don't you give Ray a bath and have your talk with him?"
Peter nodded and headed upstairs. Ray was still sleeping so Peter sat by his bed until he woke up. Ray smiled when he saw Peter sitting there. "Mmooorrrning, Ppetter…" Ray said.
"Morning, buddy. I thought I'd help you get ready," Peter said.
Ray nodded, smiling.
Peter carefully removed Ray's top. "So, you mind me giving you a sponge bath? I'm not one of those pretty nurses."
"Nnnooo. Ddddoonn'tt mmmind."
Peter slowly began to wash Ray's back. "So, do you want to talk about what happened?"
Ray shook his head.
"Okay, then let's talk about something else."
Ray nodded. Wwwannt tooo tttalk nnnormmalll"
"You will, Ray - in time."
"NNOoooo nnnooowww!"
Peter gave him a hug. "You will, kid. Soon. I promise, and you know I've never ever broke a promise to you." Ray sighed. Peter stood up. "Okay, now what do you want to put on today?"
"Clllottthes."
"Very funny, Stantz. How about your brown pants, white shirt, and green vest?"
"SSSurrre whhatttevvver."
Peter helped Ray get his shirt and pants on.
"What do you want to do today?" Peter asked making light conversation.
Ray shrugged. "Cccannn'ttt dooo muccchhh…"
"Well, we can have a Star Wars movie fest if you want," Peter smiled. "I know how much you like those movies."
Ray shrugged again. He looked away from Peter. "Kknnnooowwww whhatttt yyyooouuu wwwannnttt…" he muttered.
"You do?" Peter asked "And what's that?"
"Toooo….taaalllkkkk…." Ray closed his eyes.
Peter put a hand on Ray's shoulder. "Yeah, but I don't want to force you to."
Ray glanced at Peter and wiped his eyes.
Peter stood up. "I know this is hard."
"NNooo yooouuu dddoonn'tt! Ttttheeyyy hhhuurrt mmmeee, PPPeeetterrr."
Winston suddenly walked in. "Man, what do you think you're doing to Ray?"
Peter turned towards Winston. "My job. I'm trying to get Ray to talk about this."
"Your job is busting ghosts. Leave him alone!"
"He needs to talk about this, Winston."
"No! I said leave him alone." Winston turned to Ray. "You hungry, home boy? Egon said breakfast is ready." Ray nodded. "Okay, then. I've got to carry you again. The ramp isn't ready."
Ray shook his head. "Nnnooo… Bbbriinng fffood hhheerre."
Winston nodded. "Sure, buddy," he said and glanced at Peter.
Peter kept his mouth shut not and walked from the room, surprised at Winston's reaction to him trying to help Ray out. Peter went into his office and made a phone call to a psychologist he knew who might be able to help Ray. But first, Peter was determined to try to get Ray to talk to him.
Meanwhile Winston brought breakfast up for Ray. Ray smiled a little at him. "Ttthhhaaannnkkk yyyyoouuu," he said.
"Anytime," Winston said, smiling, and started to leave.
"Wwwiinnnsttttooonn?" Ray tried.
Winston turned around.
Ray was picking at his food. "Yyyoouu oookkaayy?"
Winston took a chair and sat down beside Ray. "Yeah, I'm fine."
Ray shook his head. "Nnnooo! I mmmeeean, aaarreee yyyoouuu okkaayy?"
"I'm fine," Winston answered stubbornly.
"Hhhhooww? I'mm nnnoott."
"Ray, then you need to talk to Peter. I'm not Peter."
"Nnnnnoooo! Yoooouuu!"
"Why me?"
"Yooouuu weeerre theerree."
"Y-Yeah. I was," Winston muttered, looking at the floor. "Ray, I don't want you to feel forced to talk about this, okay? Because to be truthful, I don't really want to even remember it."
Ray nodded, not saying anything. He picked a little more at his food. Winston walked over to the window and stared outside at the city. Ray looked at him but didn't say anything.
Ray wasn't sure what to do. He wanted to talk to Winston, but Winston didn't want to seem to talk, so for now he continued to keep quiet. Ray's eyes watered a little. He tried to stop them, but he couldn't help it. Winston turned around and saw.
"Ray?" Winston asked, walking back over to him and sitting next to him.
Ray looked away from Winston.
Winston got up. "Come on. It's time you got out of that bed and take a look outside. Would you like to go outside? I'll have that ramp done by this afternoon."
Ray shook his head. "I'll ssttaayy heerre."
"Nope. No can do," Winston replied as he helped Ray into the wheelchair. "Now you can watch me." Ray half-watched as Winston finished up the ramp. "Okay. Now for a test run. You ready?"
Ray looked but said nothing.
"Yeah. I guess that means yes." Winston took hold of the back of the wheelchair.
"I"lll dooo iitt. Noottt heellppless!" Ray snapped as he grabbed hold of the wheels.
"Okay, buddy. You do it." Ray nodded as he started down the ramp with Winston close behind. He made it to the bottom. Everyone cheered as Ray smiled.
Egon smiled at Ray. "Raymond, do you wish to go for a walk with us?"
Ray returned the smile, knowing Egon didn't mean any harm.
"Come on. I'm coming too," Janine said, putting her coat on
Ray nodded and rolled himself towards the door. Egon smiled as he grabbed the handles of the wheelchair. They decided to just walk around the block..
****
Peter watched them go then closed the door and turned to Winston. "Dwight's coming over to have a talk with Ray. He said it may be a good idea if you stay and talk too."
"No way, man! It's none of his business!"
"Winston, Ray needs to talk but he won't unless you do too. Come on. If you can't do it for yourself, do it for Ray. After all, it is your fau..."
Winston's mild brown eyes sparkled with momentary anger. "Go on! Say it, Peter! You've been dying to! It was my fault!"
Peter had the grace to look embarrassed. "I'm sorry, Winston. It just slipped out," he mumbled.
The anger left Winston's eyes. "I know, man. I'll talk to Dwight. Is he good?"
"Dwight Summers is one of the best - next to me, of course."
"Ha! Peter, I could run circles around you. How are you doing, Venkman?"
"Hey, Dwight. Come on in. I'd like you to meet Winston Zeddemore, a great friend of mine."
"Glad to meet you, Winston."
"Yeah, same here. Can you help Ray?"
"I'm going to try and maybe you too."
Winston looked at the floor, not saying a word. At that point, Egon, Janine, and Ray came back inside from the cold.
"Whoa!" Janine exclaimed. "It's pretty cold out there!"
"Yes it is," Egon agreed. "Hello, Dwight."
"Hello Egon," Dwight said, shaking his hand.
Ray didn't say anything as Dwight went over to him. "Hello, Ray. It's good to see you again," Dwight said and tried to shake Ray's hand.
Ray folded his arms and tried to roll himself upstairs, but Peter stopped him. "Ray, wait-" Peter started to say.
Nnooo!" Ray said angrily. "Yyyyooouuu thhiiinnnkkk Iiiii'mmm cccrrrraazzzyyy? Ddddooonnnn't yyyooouuu?"
"Of course not, Ray, but you need to talk about what happened," Peter said. "Since you won't talk to me, maybe it would help to talk to someone who doesn't know anything about this."
Ray shook his head tearfully. "Lllleeeavvvveeee mmmmmeeee aaaaaalllooonnneee…" Ray said and wheeled himself upstairs
Peter sighed. "I'm sorry, Dwight."
"Hey, don't worry. I'll get him to talk," Dwight said. "When should we meet?"
"Tomorrow," Peter said.
"Sorry, Peter. I've got a busy day tomorrow with other clients. How about next Tuesday?"
"Okay, Dwight. Next week."
Egon looked up the stairs. "I'm going to talk to Ray."
"You three have done enough talking to Ray. I'll talk to him. Right now, he needs a woman's touch."
None of the group said anything as Janine went upstairs and walked inside the bedroom to find Ray sitting on his bed, the wheelchair turned over on the floor. She hurried over to pick it up.
"Leave it."
Janine looked up and stared at Ray in surprise. "You're speaking normally!"
"Yeah, I know. I was doing a Peter and the wheelchair fell over, and the next thing I know, I'm on the floor. I remember hitting my head real hard and then I blacked out for a moment or two. I guess I must've hit something back in place."
"Ray, are you okay?"
"I wish everyone would stop asking me that! No, I'm not okay! My career as a Ghostbuster is over."
"Why would you think that?" Janine asked.
"Why?" Ray laughed. "Look at me, Janine! Thanks to that monster Dwayne, I can't walk anymore."
"The doctor said that's only temporary."
"Sure it is! Tell Peter to tell Dwight to go where the sun doesn't shine! I'm not talking to him!" Ray yelled.
Ray Stantz, since when are you a quitter?" Janine asked angrily.
"What are you talking about?" Ray asked, looking away.
"I've never known you to quit like this. Dwight's not here because the guys think that you're crazy. He wants to help you and Winston too," Janine said, folding her arms over her chest.
"I don't care!" Ray snapped. "He doesn't understand. He wasn't there and I'm not going to talk to a complete stranger about this!" he yelled.
"He's not a stranger. You all knew him from college."
"Peter and Egon knew him! I've only met him once!"
"Fine! Then just give up!" Janine snapped and walked outside.
"Maybe I will!" Ray snapped angrily and had tears in his eyes as he listened to Janine's footsteps echo down the hall. Ray sighed as he wiped his eyes. He knew he would have to give Peter his resignation soon. He got out a pad of paper and started to write it, fiercely blinking away the tears in his eyes.
Janine hurried downstairs and walked over to her desk. "Fine! He can be that way," she mumbled under her breath.
Egon stared at her. "I see it didn't go so well. Maybe I should talk to Raymond."
Janine jumped up and began pacing back and forth. "Yeah! Why don't you go try talking to Mr. Self Pity? Now he thinks that he's washed-up as a Ghostbuster."
Peter looked over at her. "Why would he think that?"
"Because," she snarled, "he doesn't believe he'll ever walk again."
"That's just plain silly! Why would he think that?" Peter asked.
Egon turned around without saying a word and went upstairs. He walked into the room and saw that the wheelchair was still turned over. He went over to it and put it upright before turning around to face Ray. "Get into your wheelchair. You and I are going to go see your aunt."
"No."
"I see that your speech has improved. Now get in that chair."
"I can't. I need help."
Egon shook his head. "I said get in and get in now."
Ray stared at him. "I can't! I need help!"
Egon shook his head. "You won't get it from me, Raymond."
Ray tried getting into the wheelchair, but fell flat on the floor again. He had tears in his eyes and he turned away from Egon so he wouldn't see. "Thanks a lot," Ray muttered.
Egon walked out, slamming the door behind him and then standing in front of it, breathing heavily.
The other three ran up the stairs. "What happened?" Winston demanded.
"Nothing. Just helping Ray take his first step."
"What do you mean, Egon?" Peter asked.
"I've got everything under control. Please go back downstairs."
Peter started to say something but the look in Egon eyes stopped him. "Okay Spengs, but I hope you know what you're doing."
As they went back downstairs, Egon open the door to a crack so he could watch. Ray turned himself over and grabbed hold of the wheelchair. It was a struggle, but eventually, he was able to get himself in the chair. Egon then opened the door fully and walked inside. "See? You did it on your own."
"No thanks to you."
"You didn't need my help. Now let's go see your aunt."
Ray folded his arms in frustration before he rolled himself down the ramp, out the firehouse and over to Ecto. He pulled himself from the wheelchair as Winston held it steady for him and got into the back seat. Once he had his seat belt fastened, Winston folded up the wheelchair and placed it in the back of Ecto.
The others got in and Peter drove them to Aunt Lois's place. They got out and once the wheelchair was taken from the back of Ecto, unfolded and wheeled over, Ray pulled himself into the wheelchair and looked up at the house as Peter shut the door where Ray had been seated. Egon walked up the stairs leading to the front door and knocked. They waited for a short time until Aunt Lois came to the door.
"Hi Ray's Aunt Lois," Egon said with a smile.
"Hello Egon," she replied. "Peter, Winston," she nodded at all three of them
Ray was being quiet. Peter could tell that he was embarrassed.
"Aren't you going to say hello to your aunt, Ray?" Aunt Lois asked him.
Ray blushed. "Hi, Aunt Lois. Sorry," he said.
"Never mind," she said. "Come inside, all of you. It's cold out."
Ray stared at the stairs. There was no way he was going to get the wheelchair up there. "Peter and I will go around the back."
"Sure, kid."
Once inside, everyone had a nice time. Even Ray was more cheerful but the day ended too soon and they all went home where Slimer greeted them. The week went by too quickly for Ray when he woke up Tuesday morning. Before he knew it, Ecto was parked outside Dwight Summers' office. After getting Ray in, the other three Ghostbusters waited until they would be needed.
Dwight sat down beside Ray. "So Ray, tell me how you feel."
"Angry. Upset. Confused. How AM I supposed to feel?"
"I see - and who are you angry at?"
Ray gulped. He didn't want to say.
"Ray?"
"Winston."
"And why are you upset with Winston?"
Ray turned away. "He could've stopped that man from hurting me."
"I see and that's also why you are upset and confused?"
Ray nodded. "Why didn't he find me in time? Why did he let that maniac hurt me?"
TBC