Some basic story information:

This story popped into my head after I watched a recent episode of ER. I was horrified by how many relations (they can barely be classified as relationships) with women Luka has had over the course of the last year or so. I thought by typing it up it would go away. Instead it took on a life of its own. After a few shabby starts everything seems to be coming together. Feedback is always appreciated. And if this story turns out as well as I hope it will all the credit goes to my wonderful beta Naomi.

Rating: Deals with some pretty adult themes. If you're too young or shouldn't be reading this don't.

Disclaimer: I do not in any way, shape or form own ER the show or characters. Though I wouldn't mind "owning" Luka.

[Setting: Late April 2004. Outside County General, around 8:00 pm. Weather is fairly cold for late spring.]

"Luka…Luka Kovac?"

The hesitant female voice was so quiet he almost didn't hear or turn around. He did turn; it was more of a mechanical response than an acknowledgement of someone's presence. The woman standing in front of him garnered no immediate recognition. She was bundled up tight against the chilly night air. All he could really make out was that she was very slight in stature with a youthful innocent face that made her look all of fifteen years old. He squinted, trying to figure out who she was, what she wanted, and how she knew his name. She was rather pretty, with light brown skin and dark eyes. Her hair and neck concealed by a blue knit cap and muffler. Her age could have been anywhere between fifteen and twenty-five. Her height, or lack of height, made it nearly impossible to guess. She was definitely an American; her accent was unmistakable. Luka's close scrutiny seemed to unnerve her, first she grew pale and then she blushed softly.

"It is you, I wasn't … I, uh, well you probably don't remember me." she trailed off, biting her lower lip.

He hadn't recognized her but there was no mistaking that peculiar little trait. All of sudden he was no longer standing in the cold crisp Chicago night. Instead, he was once again in the humid stifling heat of an African day.

The air was thick with dust and flies and foul odors. The road was little more then a wide trodden path of mud, dirt and ruts. Their vehicles barely had the necessary parts. Adequate suspension, power steering, and AC were unheard of luxuries, making the trip even more difficult. Progress was slow despite the few vehicles on the road; it was heavily congested with people. Suppressing a yawn, Luka stared out the window. What he saw was all too familiar and sad. Sighing, he turned his head to the other side of the road. And his eyes locked with hers'. At first he thought he was seeing things.

Is that really her standing there, on the side of the road?

Can she see me? Does she even recognize me?

Luka blinked a few times, but the figure in front of him did not disappear. It really was her standing there. When she bit on her lip and took a half step in his direction, he knew that she had seen him as well. But there was nothing he could do. His vehicle had already started to move on down the road. He could only stare out the side and back windows until she disappeared from view. He sat back in his seat, lost in thought and remembrance.

"I'm sorry, I shouldn't be here! I'll leave, sorry for disturbing you Doctor- Luka." she picked up something from the ground and began to retreat.

He shook away the memories. Reaching out he grabbed onto her coat sleeve. "NO. Stay. Please. I was just surprised. How…how are you Sarah?"

So, how was that for drama? I would love some input, please.