She's Home

"ER, Samantha Taggert,"

"Hey, it's me,"

"Hey, you. What's up?"

"Cindy called and asked if Alex could spend the night with them because it'll save her time in the morning. They want to get an early start to the Science Centre plus I think Austin wants him there this afternoon. Is that okay?"

"Ah .. sure. I should talk to him before he goes, is he home?"

"Just walked through the door. Hold on,"

Sam chatted a little while with Alex and asked to speak to Luka again.

"Make sure he's got his toothbrush and enough money for the two days and ..."

"I've got it covered AND I'll give him the talk. Don't worry. What time are you home again?"

"Should be there by 7,"

"Okay, see you then, love you,"

"Love you too, bye," she said.

"Sam's smiling that smile again," teased Chuney.

"That man's GOT you!" Haleh egged on.

Sam just blushed and grabbed the next chart. It was a patient with hives. "Whatever," she thought, too happy to care.

Back at Luka's apartment, Luka was helping Alex get his stuff together.

"Toothbrush?"

"Check,"

"Pajamas?"

"Check,"

"Homework done?"

"Uh huh, done at school and I just have one thing to read for history and I'll do that Sunday night,"

"Leave the homework so I can check it, okay?"

"Okay,"

"Clean socks and underwear?" Luka waited for the response. He tried again. "Clean socks and underwear?"

"Maybe?" Alex said with a strange look on his face showing him what he packed.

"Okay, throw these out and help me downstairs. We're going to Freddy's,"

"For underwear? It's a convenience store!" Alex protested.

"You'll be surprised at what you can find at Freddy's. Come on,"

Alex helped Luka to the store and not only did they get underwear and socks for Alex, Luka grabbed a couple movies and beer and some ingredients for dinner.

"Are you and mom gonna do it while I'm gone?"

"First, that is none of your business and second, look at me. I'm still Humpty Dumpty here. We're watching movies tonight,"

"Yeah, right. Whatever you say, Dad," said Alex.

Back at the apartment Luka put the stuff away and finished up getting Alex ready for his weekend out. Sharon and Evan arrived shortly after and Luka gave his "dad" talk.

"I want you to listen to Cindy and Dave and make me a proud dad. No crazy stuff, no mischief, okay?" Alex nodded and promised he would be on his best behavior.

"Here's some money and you know what mom always says,"

"Keep the receipts in case it's dangerous or gross and has to be returned,"

"Great! Have a great time and we'll see you on Sunday morning. Now, tackle! ... Arrrgh" they growled in unison "High five! Get out of here!"

"Bye, Dad!" yelled Alex and he ran down the stairs with Austin and his mom.

Luka watched them drive off and he waved. The greatest feeling of satisfaction had come over him and he started to hobble about the kitchen preparing dinner. He kept it simple. He grabbed the biggest wok he could find. Stir fry. He threw in the vegetables, the shrimp, put on the noodles and put a bottle of white wine in the fridge. One thing led to another and he found the candles and put them out and he set the table. His leg began to ache so he called down to Freddy's and had him deliver some flowers to him. He detached his leg brace and had a shower and shaved. Looking at himself in the mirror he ran his finger over the scar on his hairline. It could have been worse. He was beginning to feel like his old self lately. He was healing well. There were no more bruises; no more casts; no more bandages. Just the scars were left now and some pain but he was handling it well. He fingered the long large scar on his abdomen and he shuddered. Oh yes, there was still some fear too. Some nightmares; some concerns.

He combed back his thick hair and put on a loose shirt and a pair of blue cargo pants. It was still a struggle getting dressed and he always ended up sitting still for ten minutes as he waited for the pain to wear off. He re-attached the brace and made his way to the kitchen. It was 6:50. She would be home soon. He heard her coming up the stairs. He set up his mp3's and lit the candles. He heard her turn the key in the door. She was home.