"Tested Hearts", chapter 16
Author: Chicmns
Category: Drama, angst
Disclaimer: All main characters belong to DPB, CBS, and Paramount. Other characters (see below) are used with the greatest respect and a solemn promise not to benefit in any way by their use, except in the cause of (hopefully) good fiction.
Rating: G
Author's Notes: I've portrayed certain characters differently than in the series, chiefly Mattie's biological father. His character, to me, is a little too positively portrayed; and I think Mattie certainly has reason to feel the way she does about him, even after the events of the season-ending episode. More conflict would be a little more realistic, to me. Other characters are of my own creation for dramatic effect, like Miss Barrows (Mattie's school counselor) ... and the folks from DC FCS (Mack Taylor and Ellen Valera). By the way, I decided to honor two other favorite CBS series by 'borrowing' names from characters in "CSI: New York" and "CSI: Miami" – Ellen Valera's last name is taken from the DNA tech on "CSI: Miami", and of course, Mack Taylor is the character played by the very excellent Gary Sinise on the new series "CSI: New York". Thanks to all the reviews to date, including 'Abigaile', 'jtbwriter' and everyone else.
Enjoy!
JAG HQ FALLS CHURCH
"Admiral on deck!" the front desk ensign sang out in the busy bullpen of JAG headquarters as Admiral Chegwidden strode purposefully through on his way to his office. His mind was on all of the adjustments he'd have to manage today with his yeoman and senior officers on extended family leave ... and he distractedly grunted out an "As you were!" as he crossed the threshold of PO Coates' office on the way to his. He'd reached his office door when he noticed someone standing at attention at her desk, and he stopped in surprise ... thinking he'd forgotten a visitor on his schedule.
He was surprised to find the person standing there was Jen Coates herself, and it looked as if she'd just ended a phone call. Her eyes were bright with excitement about something, but he could see the lack of rest in her eyes. He studied her for a moment as she stood at attention; her eyes locked on a point above his shoulder, and then he spoke in his usual gravelly voice.
"At ease, Petty Officer. What the hell are you doing here in the office? You were placed on family leave until further notice."
"Good morning, Admiral." Coates replied in her soft alto. "Sir, with both Commander Rabb and Colonel McKenzie out of the office, I knew you'd need me here."
"Mattie needs you, too, Petty Officer. And it doesn't look like you've gotten a lot of rest. What's the latest?" He took off his cover and overcoat as he spoke, followed by Coates as he entered his office and sat in his chair. She stepped to the front of his desk, and came to attention. He impatiently looked up, waving her into a chair.
"Sir, you sure do know how to make a girl feel special." She gratefully sank into one of the chairs the Admiral had indicated. "As to Mattie, well, that phone call was from the Commander, sir. He reports that she woke up this morning feeling much better. Her temp's come down a little more, and there was mention of an appetite coming back."
The Admiral leaned back, a genuine smile on his craggy face. "That's great news, Coates. I suppose the Colonel and Mattie's grandparents are there with Mattie and the Commander."
"Yes, sir. I spoke with them briefly before I left for work this morning, and they are settled in at the Commander's place. They asked me to thank you for allowing us the time to be with Mattie, sir, and I'd like to thank you as well. I know that 'family leave' for me in this situation isn't exactly by-the-book, and when Lt. Sims told me you'd placed me on emergency family leave, well ..." Jen stopped, and smiled at her CO.
He studied his young yeoman earnest face, seeing the emotions behind the words. It had never been a well-kept secret, but he'd come to think of Coates as a daughter, sometimes ... and he had no doubt that she knew it. The way she was looking at him right now told him that she considered him a friend as well as her CO and mentor, and that was fine with him. He gave her a lopsided grin before answering.
"What's the point of being a lawyer if you can't twist rules and regs every once in a while? And, while we're talking about it, I think I speak for everyone when I say that you're part of the Commander's family in all the important ways, Jennifer. Blood isn't the only thing that makes a family – all you have to do is think of Harm and Mattie to remember that."
She swallowed, her eyes brightening suddenly as they held each other's gazes, then whispered. "I've learned that, sir, since coming to work for you and JAG." He nodded at her oblique way of telling him she understood his meaning.
"Good. Now, if you could only learn a proper appreciation for the game of baseball, I'd really be happy."
"Sorry, sir. Personally, I'd rather go to a Redskins game than drive all the way to Camden Yards."
"That sounds like treason to me, Coates," he said in a wry voice, bringing a grin to her face. "Well, no one's perfect. At any rate, thank you for coming in today. With you and Harriet here, we should be in good shape until my senior lawyers are back."
"I'm just doing my duty, sir."
"Now, let's talk about the day—"
There was a knock at the door, and both of them turned to see Lt. Sims standing in the doorway with another woman.
"Good morning, sir, Petty Officer. Sorry for the interruption."
"Morning, Lieutenant. What's going on here?" The Admiral replied.
Lt. Sims stepped into the office at his wave, followed by the stranger.
"Sir, Petty Officer ... this is Ellen Valera from DC Family and Child Services. She's requesting to speak with PO Coates about Mattie. Ms. Valera, this is the Navy Judge Advocate General, Admiral Chegwidden ... and Petty Officer Coates." The woman, who looked similar to Mac with short brown hair, a slim build, and a no-nonsense air, moved from behind Harriet to shake hands with the Admiral, then glanced at Coates and nodded.
"Please forgive the interruption, Admiral. I didn't have time to call for an appointment before coming. My office is looking into what happened with Mattie, and I'd like to speak with her roommate if possible." She was direct and to the point, the Admiral thought. Another reminder of Mac.
"Good morning, Ms. Valera. Thank you, Harriet – dismissed."
"Sir." Harriet briefly came to attention, then spun on her heel and left them alone. She traded glances with Jen as she left, who'd suddenly turned pale.
"Please sit down, Ms. Valera. Can we get you anything to drink?"
"No, thank you, sir. I don't want to take up too much of your valuable time, and I need to conduct other interviews after this one. Is there somewhere Ms. Coates and I can speak for a bit?"
The Admiral had noticed Coates' pale look, and had no intention of leaving her alone with this woman until he had more information about what was going on. "May I ask what this is regarding exactly?"
Ellen cleared her voice, turning in her chair to face both Jen and the Admiral before answering. "We received a complaint this morning from Mattie's biological father, in which he claimed that Mattie's becoming ill was brought on, at least in part, by neglect. We're investigating and preparing a report for Family Court."
Jen gasped, opening her mouth in a wide 'O' as she absorbed what she'd just heard. She spoke hesitatingly, "How ... there was nothing we could do. She's sick with pneumonia and flu, and we, I mean ... I ... didn't even notice the symptoms until I found her in her room after she'd fallen out of her bed!"
Ellen studied her closely for a moment before turning to the Admiral. "Sir, perhaps Miss Coates and I can speak in private?" The Admiral narrowed his eyes, deciding that this woman was being too insistent to get Coates in a room alone with her. He looked down at his blotter in thought, and then cleared his throat.
"I prefer that she have representation present, Ms. Valera. It seems to me that these are serious accusations, and I think it would be in the Petty Officer's best interest to have counsel present. You can speak here with her if you like."
Ellen and the Admiral had locked gazes by the time he finished speaking. "Sir, this isn't a court of law, or even a police investigation. I'm just gathering information on what happened. We're trying to protect Mattie's best interests, and I don't think Miss Coates needs an attorney for this." She didn't want to have the investigation hindered by legal dances.
"Respectfully, I disagree, Ms. Valera. The Petty Officer is under my command, and I'm empowered to act as counsel for my people. Petty Officer?"
"The Admiral represents me in this case, Ms. Valera." Coates said in a quiet voice.
Ellen sighed. Knowing that the military was extremely protective of its' own, she didn't want to get into a pissing contest here ... and she wasn't entirely sure of the various jurisdictions and boundaries, anyway. Definitely something to research when she got back to her office, she thought. She looked at the Admiral who was watching her carefully, and nodded.
"Very well, Admiral. Let me start by saying that I'm not the enemy here; FCS' goal is to find out what happened and present the facts to the court. Again, this is all for Mattie's benefit. I'm happy for the chance to get your take on things, Miss Coates. I will be speaking with everyone ... and if there's any information you can add as well, Admiral, I'd be grateful."
"We're here to cooperate, Ms. Valera. Let's get started, shall we? Petty Officer, please close the door if you don't mind."
"Yes, sir."
He picked up his phone, and dialed Harriet's extension. "Lieutenant, please hold all calls unless there's an emergency until further notice. Thank you." He waited for her acknowledgement, then replaced the phone in its' cradle ... then leaned back in his chair, gesturing to Ellen.
"Please ... go ahead, Ms. Valera."
Ellen turned to Jen. "Miss Coates –"
"Please, call me Jen or Jennifer."
"Thanks. Call me Ellen. Would you take me through the entire sequence of events from the time Mattie got home from school?"
Jen began speaking as Ellen took careful notes.
GOOD HOPE TREATMENT CENTER
OUTSIDE DC
Tom Johnson paced back and forth in his room as he waited for someone to come and let him know if his request for an emergency pass to visit Mattie had been granted. He was fairly certain it would be, and he needed to get to his daughter before Rabb and his friends had a chance to fill her head with something other than the truth of their neglect in not paying enough attention to her. 'How could they let her end up in the hospital! 'A pneumonia that appears out of nowhere – yeah, right!' he thought to himself.
After the call from the caseworker at DC FCS, a Ms. Valera ... he felt sure that this was turning into a chance for he and Mattie to restart their family again. Maybe, once he finished here, they could move someplace else -- start fresh in a new place. He would sell Grace Aviation and the house, maybe move them to the Northwest – someplace far away from DC and the pain of the last year.
Mattie would give him another chance ... she just had to. He'd get custody back, they'd spend some time talking, and then he'd convince her that moving away and starting over would be best for them.
He'd explained all his concerns to Ms. Valera ... and once the report was filed, that would be that. He'd be in a position to make everything up to Mattie.
He sighed, and ran his fingers through his hair. He hadn't felt like taking a drink so much in a long time.
COOLIDGE HIGH SCHOOL
COMPUTER LAB
2:00PM
Andre sat at a station in the school's lab, trying to work on a report for English class. When he'd gone by Miss Barrows' office at lunch to see if their trip to visit Mattie was set, he found a note taped to her door.
"Andre B. – had to run a sick child home during lunch. Will email you when I get back. – Miss Barrows."
She must have known he had computer time scheduled today. 'Big brother is alive and well,' he thought to himself, trying to work through the Field of Agincourt speech by King Henry in "Henry V." He wished Mattie were here to help him; she was better at literature than he was. Sighing, he decided to check his messages to see if Miss Barrows had sent him something. Opening the school email program, he logged on and found a message from her.
From: barrowscoolidge.k12.dc.us To: andrebcoolidge.k12.dc.us Time: 1:32PM Re: Mattie
Andre, The trip is set. Your grandmother gave her thumbs up. I will run you home afterwards. We can't stay long – Mattie needs rest. Meet me at my office after last period. We can stop somewhere on the way if you want to get her a gift.
Don't forget her assignments.
Miss Barrows
'Great!' he thought. He wondered what he should bring Mattie for a get-well gift. His grandmother always told him to think of the traits of the person he was getting a gift for. He sat, lost in thought ... then a smile came to his face as he thought of something that might just save him from having books tossed his way for bringing her homework.
He closed the email program and opened a browser window, researching stuffed animal stores near the hospital.
GW HOSPITAL ROOM 411
Dr. Gentry examined Mattie, using her stethoscope to listen to her lungs and chest cavity. The nurse made notes, double-checking the monitor readings and connections while hanging another IV bag.
"What's in there, anyway? It sure isn't iced tea, or else I wouldn't be this thirsty." Mattie asked, after Dr. Gentry had finished.
"You mean you DIDN'T order the vodka?" the nurse quipped, smiling as Mattie and the doctor both laughed ... then Mattie had a sudden coughing fit, and her back was rubbed, then she was gently laid back against the pillows. Finally, the fit subsided, and Mattie's cheeks were red. Dr. Gentry began examining her mouth with her penlight, asking her how her throat and chest felt.
"Both are sore, doc. My chest still hurts whenever I take a deep breath."
Dr. Gentry made a notation on her PMC. "That's going to be the case for a while, Mattie. You still have some fluid in your lungs, which is why we're continuing the broad-spectrum antibiotics." and she nodded at the new IV bag. "The coughing is actually a good sign – it means your body's getting strong enough to try to get rid of the fluid on its' own. It'll be uncomfortable for a while, I'm afraid, but it will get better."
"When can I have something to eat? I'm starving!" Both doctor and nurse smiled.
"More good news! An appetite is another good sign. Do you think you could handle some solid food with your throat and sore chest?"
"Yeah ... I just have to make sure I eat slowly, right?" Dr. Gentry nodded.
"Good girl – that's right. We'll start you off with something easy ... how about some soup and a little soft cooked fish? I want you to have some protein and vitamins."
"Sounds good. Can my folks stay while I eat?"
"Sure. Listen to me, though ... I want you to eat what you can – you don't have to finish if you don't feel like it – and then take a nap, OK? I want you to rest a little before Dr. Masters sees you later. So, that means you have a little lunch, and then it's sleep time, OK?"
Mattie nodded and smiled, yawning a little. "How did you sleep last night?" the nurse asked her.
"Pretty good – my dad stayed with me, and I was more comfortable than before."
"Mattie, did you have any bowel movements during the night?" Dr. Masters was writing on her PMC.
"No ... don't think so."
"Any headaches, or soreness anywhere else other than the throat and chest?"
"My legs felt a little stiff this morning when I woke up. That's all."
"Okay. That's it for now. You stay in bed ... and the nurses will bring you some food when it's ready. Right now, it's time for a quick sponge bath, and then we'll let your folks back in. The sponge bath will make you feel better, and Dr. Masters won't be offended when he visits."
Mattie nervously looked back and forth between the doctor and nurse, then asked in a quiet voice, "That bad, huh?"
"Naw, not really." Dr. Gentry quipped. "He just wants his favorite patients to be pampered, that's all."
"So, what's with all the special treatment? Don't tell me – I'm the millionth patient through the ER doors or something?"
"Very funny – does this place look like Disneyland?" the nurse replied. "We just don't want that dad of yours to order a bombing run on the hospital if we don't take good care of you!" Mattie grinned and said, "Yeah, he's just crazy and protective enough to do it, too!"
Just then, Harm knocked and popped his head inside the door. "Hey, can I see my daughter, or are you still trying to find her brain?"
Mattie narrowed her eyes at him, crossing her arms and glaring as the doctor and nurse chuckled. "Hardy har-har. Maybe YOU should get the sponge bath, Dad!"
Dr. Gentry and the nurse exchanged glances, and then quickly got ready to leave ... their faces coloring quickly. Dr. Gentry quickly spoke: "See you later, Mattie. Remember – eat, then rest! Got it?"
"Got it, doc." They bustled past a confused, flustered Harm, and quickly left. He watched them go, then came into the room to sit next to Mattie.
"Was it something I said?" Mattie asked him, reaching for his hand.
"I'll tell you when you're 50." He smirked at her, meeting her hand with his. She looked more closely at his face, eyebrows raised in surprise and puzzlement.
"Hey – you're blushing!! What just happened here?"
"I'm NOT blushing! And just never you mind, young lady!"
"No one ever tells me anything!" Mattie whined. "Where are Mom, Grams, and Gramps?"
"Downstairs getting coffee. Now, what did the doctor say?"
Mattie filled him in as she waited for lunch, or a sponge bath ...whichever came first.
GW HOSPITAL PARKING LOT
Ellen Valera pulled her car into the visitors' lot of the hospital, flashing her FCS ID at the parking guard and collecting a clip-on visitors' pass from the security officer at the entrance, before heading to the elevators. She needed some coffee before going up to speak with Mattie Grace Johnson and Colonel MacKenzie, and decided to stop in the cafeteria on the second floor first.
Her interview with Admiral Chegwidden and Jen Coates had gone well, judging by the quality of the answers to her questions and the impressions she'd received. She was surprised most of all at the way the entire JAG office, it seemed, had sprung into action once Mattie fell ill ... supporting Commander Rabb and his ward in every way. She knew most civilian offices would not have reacted in the same manner; which spoke volumes, in her opinion, for any future support Mattie could expect from this unique collection of people.
Obviously, the people she'd met so far were committed in helping raise and support Mattie Grace, and Ellen was also mindful of the obvious love Jen Coates has for her "sister", as she referred to Mattie more than once during their interview.
Once she reached the cafeteria, she got in line for coffee and after paying for it and looking for a quick place to get off of her feel for a few minutes, she noticed a group of three people sitting at a table by the window. Two women and a man ... one younger and around her own age, and two older folks who looked like someone's grandparents.
What had initially drawn her attention was the bearing of the younger woman – she sat ramrod in her chair, and Ellen immediately sensed the aura of command from her. The reaction reminded her of her old Lieutenant, back when she was on the DC police force. She guessed that the people she was watching were Colonel Sarah MacKenzie, and probably Harmon Rabb's parents. She decided that this would be a good setting to speak to the Colonel, and got up to cross the half-filled room. After a few steps, she noticed that the young woman had detected her approach, even from a distance, and had immediately stood, watching her as she approached. "Interesting," she thought as she drew near to the group.
The woman who faced her, studying her with a curious expression, was similar to Ellen in look; short dark brown hair, slim build, and medium height. One difference she noticed were the dark brown eyes, as opposed to her own blue eyes. As she got closer, the sense of military service and command grew stronger. Ellen held out her hand as she stepped close, and introduced herself.
"Hello, my name is Ellen Valera, from DC FCS. Are you Colonel MacKenzie?"
"Yes." They shook hands. "Please call me Sarah; I'm out of uniform as you can see. These are Harmon Rabb's parents – Trish and Frank. They got in from California last night to be with Mattie." Ellen shook hands with them both, somewhat amused at the curious, guarded expressions they wore. Mac continued speaking as she waved Ellen to a chair next to her. "I assume you're the social worker who is here to talk about Mr. Johnson's call?"
"Yes. Family and Child Services are conducting interviews around this incident, primarily based on a complaint Mr. Johnson has lodged regarding Mattie's care."
"Her care?" Mac asked her. "You mean here at GW?"
"No. This is regarding the events leading up to her getting sick and losing consciousness while with Jennifer Coates." Before Mac could answer, Trish spoke up.
"Ms. Valera, we think of both Mattie and Jennifer as granddaughters, and we know that Jennifer would give anything to love and protect Mattie!" Trish said. Frank nodded beside her.
"Ma'am, I've just come from the JAG office, where I interviewed both Ms. Coates and Admiral Chegwidden. I heard nothing in those interviews to contradict what you've said, but please understand ... we have procedures that we have to follow for these types of situations. I'm sure the Colonel knows what I mean." She looked at Mac.
"Yes, I do."
"Okay. Here's what I'd like to do. First of all, how is Mattie doing?"
Frank answered. "She feels much better this morning, and right now she's being seen by the doctors. Harm is with her right now."
"That's great. I would like to spend some time talking with her—"
"I don't think she's up for an interrogation, Ms. Valera." Trish said, clearly wanting to protect Mattie. "She's still quite sick, and the doctors tell us she will be here for a couple of days. Can this wait?" Ellen sighed, and turned to her.
"Ma'am, I have no desire to cause Mattie any harm, and my questions won't take too long in any case. I need to speak with her, the doctors treating her, and Miss MacKenzie here – today, if possible. I will accede to the doctor's wishes, of course, but the sooner we deal with this, the quicker I can get out of everyone's hair." Trish studied her for a moment, and had to admit to herself that she appreciated the woman's direct way of speaking; a trait she valued, and cultivated in Sarah, Mattie, and Jennifer. She knew she was extremely protective of all these girls, and that prompted her to speak out a little too quickly sometimes. Frank reached over and squeezed her hand, sensing her need to protect her family. She looked at him, then turned back to Ellen.
"Ms. Valera, please forgive me. I love these girls very much, and I've definitely got 'grandmother's testosterone'. And my son loves Mattie with all his heart – we all do. We're all very protective of both of them. We understand you have a job to do."
"I understand, ma'am. Truly, I do. I think, from what I've seen and heard, that Mattie is a very blessed young lady." She smiled at everyone around her, and the tension seemed to dissipate.
"Why don't I buy you folks some more coffee, and we can talk a while before we head upstairs to see Mattie? Would that be all right?"
They all nodded, and everyone's coffee was replenished ... then they talked about the young girl upstairs.
GW HOSPITAL
ROOM 411
Harm waited in a chair in the hallway while Mattie had a sponge bath, and after the nurse left, he reentered her room to see Mattie rearranging the blankets around her.
"How are you, sweetheart?" he asked, plopping down next to her.
"Oh, great. Just waiting for some food to get here before I starve to death IN A HOSPITAL! And where are Mom and everybody? You didn't say something wrong, did you, dad?"
"Why is it always my fault?" Harm complained. Mattie smirked at him, and he could tell the bantering was on.
"Because Mom always says it is, and you told me earlier you want me to be more like her." She had a wicked grin on her face that made Harm shake his head.
"Are you sure you don't want to be a lawyer instead of an aviator? You sure are good at twisting things around already!" he chided her good-naturedly. "I'm not sure what's keeping them ... maybe Mom found a good-looking doctor to attach herself to ..."
"Dad!! I'm telling Grams you said that! Wait—I really can't talk, since I wouldn't mind being 'attached' to Dr. Masters--yum!!" She deliberately looked away from Harm as she spoke that last part, knowing she couldn't keep from laughing at the look on his face at that moment.
Harm stood, crossing his arms, and giving her one of his mock-sternest looks. "Matilda... "
"Don't call me that!" she automatically replied.
"-- he has got to be at least twice your age! And, you're forgetting my rule."
"WHAT rule?!?" she muttered, looking suspiciously up at him.
"NO dating until AFTER you're married! And I'm not so sure about then ..." Now it was his turn to avoid meeting her eyes, his insides rolling with laughter. She raised her eyebrow, and laid her head back on the pillows. Even sitting next to her, her dad's 6'4" height sometimes made it hard to hold eye contact for long.
"That has GOT to be the lamest rule ever! ... How about we replace it with something easier, like, 'Never wear white after Labor Day.'" He laughed.
"That would render half my wardrobe inactive! Remember me? – Navy officer who wears white as a predominate color?" He wagged his eyebrows at her, and she giggled.
Before she could answer with another barb, the door opened and a nurse came in, pushing a cart with covered plates and other cartons. "Lunchtime!" she announced to the room as she pulled the movable table towards Mattie, positioning it so that she didn't have to move far to eat. Harm and Mattie could smell different aromas from the trays on the plate, and Mattie's stomach growled ... causing her to blush and the nurse and Harm to laugh. "Hungry, are we?" she asked Mattie.
"Very!!"
"When AREN'T you hungry, would be a better question ..." Harm whispered.
"I HEARD that! Nurse, my dad is bugging me – could you give him a shot or something?"
She smiled, looking up at the tall man standing by the bed. "Sorry, honey ... he's paying your bill, and he's also a lot bigger than I am – two really good reasons for me not to get involved."
Sighing, Mattie muttered, "That's the problem with hospitals these days – no one wants to get involved!" The nurse raised her eyebrow.
"Speaking of shots..." she drawled, letting a little menace slip into her voice.
"OK, ok ... I give up!!!" Mattie quickly spoke.
The nurse winked at Harm as she pulled a tray with a couple of covered plates out, setting it on Mattie's table. "Ok, smartie ... for you today we have some nice tomato soup, along with a half-portion of grilled trout. The doctor doesn't want to give you too much right away. Oh—and some milk, too. She was VERY insistent on the milk."
"Mattie, you get started ... I'm going to go see what's happened with Mac and your grandparents. Be right back." He kissed her on the top of her head as she started slowly eating her soup, under the watchful eye of the nurse. "Eat slowly, and no bribing the nurse for a Beltway Burger."
Mattie had taken a few sips of the soup, and paused before continuing. "That reminds me – can I have some money, Dad?" There was a glint in her eye that made the nurse laugh. Harm turned at the doorway to point a finger at her.
"Eat and behave!"
She smirked at him, a piece of trout on her fork. He shook his head, grinning as he left in search of Mac and his parents.
GOOD HOPE TREATMENT CENTER
The counselor on duty had just brought good news to Tom – his request for an emergency pass to visit Mattie had been granted. Now he could spend some time with his daughter, and if he had to throw everyone else out of her room to do so, he would. He'd only been given a six-hour pass, though, and had to leave soon in order to make it to GW so he would have enough time to spend with Mattie, before returning to the center.
His anxiety and nervousness had gradually increased as he'd waited to hear about his request, the feelings of needing a drink magnifying as time passed. He knew that would be the very worst thing, both for him and for Mattie-to show up at the hospital with alcohol on his breath. She'd never speak to him again, and he'd lose custody for good.
But there were ways, he knew, to mask the smell of alcohol. Just one drink to calm his nerves wouldn't make any difference.
His inner voices wrestled with each other as he gathered his things to leave.
END OF CHAPTER 16
Author: Chicmns
Category: Drama, angst
Disclaimer: All main characters belong to DPB, CBS, and Paramount. Other characters (see below) are used with the greatest respect and a solemn promise not to benefit in any way by their use, except in the cause of (hopefully) good fiction.
Rating: G
Author's Notes: I've portrayed certain characters differently than in the series, chiefly Mattie's biological father. His character, to me, is a little too positively portrayed; and I think Mattie certainly has reason to feel the way she does about him, even after the events of the season-ending episode. More conflict would be a little more realistic, to me. Other characters are of my own creation for dramatic effect, like Miss Barrows (Mattie's school counselor) ... and the folks from DC FCS (Mack Taylor and Ellen Valera). By the way, I decided to honor two other favorite CBS series by 'borrowing' names from characters in "CSI: New York" and "CSI: Miami" – Ellen Valera's last name is taken from the DNA tech on "CSI: Miami", and of course, Mack Taylor is the character played by the very excellent Gary Sinise on the new series "CSI: New York". Thanks to all the reviews to date, including 'Abigaile', 'jtbwriter' and everyone else.
Enjoy!
JAG HQ FALLS CHURCH
"Admiral on deck!" the front desk ensign sang out in the busy bullpen of JAG headquarters as Admiral Chegwidden strode purposefully through on his way to his office. His mind was on all of the adjustments he'd have to manage today with his yeoman and senior officers on extended family leave ... and he distractedly grunted out an "As you were!" as he crossed the threshold of PO Coates' office on the way to his. He'd reached his office door when he noticed someone standing at attention at her desk, and he stopped in surprise ... thinking he'd forgotten a visitor on his schedule.
He was surprised to find the person standing there was Jen Coates herself, and it looked as if she'd just ended a phone call. Her eyes were bright with excitement about something, but he could see the lack of rest in her eyes. He studied her for a moment as she stood at attention; her eyes locked on a point above his shoulder, and then he spoke in his usual gravelly voice.
"At ease, Petty Officer. What the hell are you doing here in the office? You were placed on family leave until further notice."
"Good morning, Admiral." Coates replied in her soft alto. "Sir, with both Commander Rabb and Colonel McKenzie out of the office, I knew you'd need me here."
"Mattie needs you, too, Petty Officer. And it doesn't look like you've gotten a lot of rest. What's the latest?" He took off his cover and overcoat as he spoke, followed by Coates as he entered his office and sat in his chair. She stepped to the front of his desk, and came to attention. He impatiently looked up, waving her into a chair.
"Sir, you sure do know how to make a girl feel special." She gratefully sank into one of the chairs the Admiral had indicated. "As to Mattie, well, that phone call was from the Commander, sir. He reports that she woke up this morning feeling much better. Her temp's come down a little more, and there was mention of an appetite coming back."
The Admiral leaned back, a genuine smile on his craggy face. "That's great news, Coates. I suppose the Colonel and Mattie's grandparents are there with Mattie and the Commander."
"Yes, sir. I spoke with them briefly before I left for work this morning, and they are settled in at the Commander's place. They asked me to thank you for allowing us the time to be with Mattie, sir, and I'd like to thank you as well. I know that 'family leave' for me in this situation isn't exactly by-the-book, and when Lt. Sims told me you'd placed me on emergency family leave, well ..." Jen stopped, and smiled at her CO.
He studied his young yeoman earnest face, seeing the emotions behind the words. It had never been a well-kept secret, but he'd come to think of Coates as a daughter, sometimes ... and he had no doubt that she knew it. The way she was looking at him right now told him that she considered him a friend as well as her CO and mentor, and that was fine with him. He gave her a lopsided grin before answering.
"What's the point of being a lawyer if you can't twist rules and regs every once in a while? And, while we're talking about it, I think I speak for everyone when I say that you're part of the Commander's family in all the important ways, Jennifer. Blood isn't the only thing that makes a family – all you have to do is think of Harm and Mattie to remember that."
She swallowed, her eyes brightening suddenly as they held each other's gazes, then whispered. "I've learned that, sir, since coming to work for you and JAG." He nodded at her oblique way of telling him she understood his meaning.
"Good. Now, if you could only learn a proper appreciation for the game of baseball, I'd really be happy."
"Sorry, sir. Personally, I'd rather go to a Redskins game than drive all the way to Camden Yards."
"That sounds like treason to me, Coates," he said in a wry voice, bringing a grin to her face. "Well, no one's perfect. At any rate, thank you for coming in today. With you and Harriet here, we should be in good shape until my senior lawyers are back."
"I'm just doing my duty, sir."
"Now, let's talk about the day—"
There was a knock at the door, and both of them turned to see Lt. Sims standing in the doorway with another woman.
"Good morning, sir, Petty Officer. Sorry for the interruption."
"Morning, Lieutenant. What's going on here?" The Admiral replied.
Lt. Sims stepped into the office at his wave, followed by the stranger.
"Sir, Petty Officer ... this is Ellen Valera from DC Family and Child Services. She's requesting to speak with PO Coates about Mattie. Ms. Valera, this is the Navy Judge Advocate General, Admiral Chegwidden ... and Petty Officer Coates." The woman, who looked similar to Mac with short brown hair, a slim build, and a no-nonsense air, moved from behind Harriet to shake hands with the Admiral, then glanced at Coates and nodded.
"Please forgive the interruption, Admiral. I didn't have time to call for an appointment before coming. My office is looking into what happened with Mattie, and I'd like to speak with her roommate if possible." She was direct and to the point, the Admiral thought. Another reminder of Mac.
"Good morning, Ms. Valera. Thank you, Harriet – dismissed."
"Sir." Harriet briefly came to attention, then spun on her heel and left them alone. She traded glances with Jen as she left, who'd suddenly turned pale.
"Please sit down, Ms. Valera. Can we get you anything to drink?"
"No, thank you, sir. I don't want to take up too much of your valuable time, and I need to conduct other interviews after this one. Is there somewhere Ms. Coates and I can speak for a bit?"
The Admiral had noticed Coates' pale look, and had no intention of leaving her alone with this woman until he had more information about what was going on. "May I ask what this is regarding exactly?"
Ellen cleared her voice, turning in her chair to face both Jen and the Admiral before answering. "We received a complaint this morning from Mattie's biological father, in which he claimed that Mattie's becoming ill was brought on, at least in part, by neglect. We're investigating and preparing a report for Family Court."
Jen gasped, opening her mouth in a wide 'O' as she absorbed what she'd just heard. She spoke hesitatingly, "How ... there was nothing we could do. She's sick with pneumonia and flu, and we, I mean ... I ... didn't even notice the symptoms until I found her in her room after she'd fallen out of her bed!"
Ellen studied her closely for a moment before turning to the Admiral. "Sir, perhaps Miss Coates and I can speak in private?" The Admiral narrowed his eyes, deciding that this woman was being too insistent to get Coates in a room alone with her. He looked down at his blotter in thought, and then cleared his throat.
"I prefer that she have representation present, Ms. Valera. It seems to me that these are serious accusations, and I think it would be in the Petty Officer's best interest to have counsel present. You can speak here with her if you like."
Ellen and the Admiral had locked gazes by the time he finished speaking. "Sir, this isn't a court of law, or even a police investigation. I'm just gathering information on what happened. We're trying to protect Mattie's best interests, and I don't think Miss Coates needs an attorney for this." She didn't want to have the investigation hindered by legal dances.
"Respectfully, I disagree, Ms. Valera. The Petty Officer is under my command, and I'm empowered to act as counsel for my people. Petty Officer?"
"The Admiral represents me in this case, Ms. Valera." Coates said in a quiet voice.
Ellen sighed. Knowing that the military was extremely protective of its' own, she didn't want to get into a pissing contest here ... and she wasn't entirely sure of the various jurisdictions and boundaries, anyway. Definitely something to research when she got back to her office, she thought. She looked at the Admiral who was watching her carefully, and nodded.
"Very well, Admiral. Let me start by saying that I'm not the enemy here; FCS' goal is to find out what happened and present the facts to the court. Again, this is all for Mattie's benefit. I'm happy for the chance to get your take on things, Miss Coates. I will be speaking with everyone ... and if there's any information you can add as well, Admiral, I'd be grateful."
"We're here to cooperate, Ms. Valera. Let's get started, shall we? Petty Officer, please close the door if you don't mind."
"Yes, sir."
He picked up his phone, and dialed Harriet's extension. "Lieutenant, please hold all calls unless there's an emergency until further notice. Thank you." He waited for her acknowledgement, then replaced the phone in its' cradle ... then leaned back in his chair, gesturing to Ellen.
"Please ... go ahead, Ms. Valera."
Ellen turned to Jen. "Miss Coates –"
"Please, call me Jen or Jennifer."
"Thanks. Call me Ellen. Would you take me through the entire sequence of events from the time Mattie got home from school?"
Jen began speaking as Ellen took careful notes.
GOOD HOPE TREATMENT CENTER
OUTSIDE DC
Tom Johnson paced back and forth in his room as he waited for someone to come and let him know if his request for an emergency pass to visit Mattie had been granted. He was fairly certain it would be, and he needed to get to his daughter before Rabb and his friends had a chance to fill her head with something other than the truth of their neglect in not paying enough attention to her. 'How could they let her end up in the hospital! 'A pneumonia that appears out of nowhere – yeah, right!' he thought to himself.
After the call from the caseworker at DC FCS, a Ms. Valera ... he felt sure that this was turning into a chance for he and Mattie to restart their family again. Maybe, once he finished here, they could move someplace else -- start fresh in a new place. He would sell Grace Aviation and the house, maybe move them to the Northwest – someplace far away from DC and the pain of the last year.
Mattie would give him another chance ... she just had to. He'd get custody back, they'd spend some time talking, and then he'd convince her that moving away and starting over would be best for them.
He'd explained all his concerns to Ms. Valera ... and once the report was filed, that would be that. He'd be in a position to make everything up to Mattie.
He sighed, and ran his fingers through his hair. He hadn't felt like taking a drink so much in a long time.
COOLIDGE HIGH SCHOOL
COMPUTER LAB
2:00PM
Andre sat at a station in the school's lab, trying to work on a report for English class. When he'd gone by Miss Barrows' office at lunch to see if their trip to visit Mattie was set, he found a note taped to her door.
"Andre B. – had to run a sick child home during lunch. Will email you when I get back. – Miss Barrows."
She must have known he had computer time scheduled today. 'Big brother is alive and well,' he thought to himself, trying to work through the Field of Agincourt speech by King Henry in "Henry V." He wished Mattie were here to help him; she was better at literature than he was. Sighing, he decided to check his messages to see if Miss Barrows had sent him something. Opening the school email program, he logged on and found a message from her.
From: barrowscoolidge.k12.dc.us To: andrebcoolidge.k12.dc.us Time: 1:32PM Re: Mattie
Andre, The trip is set. Your grandmother gave her thumbs up. I will run you home afterwards. We can't stay long – Mattie needs rest. Meet me at my office after last period. We can stop somewhere on the way if you want to get her a gift.
Don't forget her assignments.
Miss Barrows
'Great!' he thought. He wondered what he should bring Mattie for a get-well gift. His grandmother always told him to think of the traits of the person he was getting a gift for. He sat, lost in thought ... then a smile came to his face as he thought of something that might just save him from having books tossed his way for bringing her homework.
He closed the email program and opened a browser window, researching stuffed animal stores near the hospital.
GW HOSPITAL ROOM 411
Dr. Gentry examined Mattie, using her stethoscope to listen to her lungs and chest cavity. The nurse made notes, double-checking the monitor readings and connections while hanging another IV bag.
"What's in there, anyway? It sure isn't iced tea, or else I wouldn't be this thirsty." Mattie asked, after Dr. Gentry had finished.
"You mean you DIDN'T order the vodka?" the nurse quipped, smiling as Mattie and the doctor both laughed ... then Mattie had a sudden coughing fit, and her back was rubbed, then she was gently laid back against the pillows. Finally, the fit subsided, and Mattie's cheeks were red. Dr. Gentry began examining her mouth with her penlight, asking her how her throat and chest felt.
"Both are sore, doc. My chest still hurts whenever I take a deep breath."
Dr. Gentry made a notation on her PMC. "That's going to be the case for a while, Mattie. You still have some fluid in your lungs, which is why we're continuing the broad-spectrum antibiotics." and she nodded at the new IV bag. "The coughing is actually a good sign – it means your body's getting strong enough to try to get rid of the fluid on its' own. It'll be uncomfortable for a while, I'm afraid, but it will get better."
"When can I have something to eat? I'm starving!" Both doctor and nurse smiled.
"More good news! An appetite is another good sign. Do you think you could handle some solid food with your throat and sore chest?"
"Yeah ... I just have to make sure I eat slowly, right?" Dr. Gentry nodded.
"Good girl – that's right. We'll start you off with something easy ... how about some soup and a little soft cooked fish? I want you to have some protein and vitamins."
"Sounds good. Can my folks stay while I eat?"
"Sure. Listen to me, though ... I want you to eat what you can – you don't have to finish if you don't feel like it – and then take a nap, OK? I want you to rest a little before Dr. Masters sees you later. So, that means you have a little lunch, and then it's sleep time, OK?"
Mattie nodded and smiled, yawning a little. "How did you sleep last night?" the nurse asked her.
"Pretty good – my dad stayed with me, and I was more comfortable than before."
"Mattie, did you have any bowel movements during the night?" Dr. Masters was writing on her PMC.
"No ... don't think so."
"Any headaches, or soreness anywhere else other than the throat and chest?"
"My legs felt a little stiff this morning when I woke up. That's all."
"Okay. That's it for now. You stay in bed ... and the nurses will bring you some food when it's ready. Right now, it's time for a quick sponge bath, and then we'll let your folks back in. The sponge bath will make you feel better, and Dr. Masters won't be offended when he visits."
Mattie nervously looked back and forth between the doctor and nurse, then asked in a quiet voice, "That bad, huh?"
"Naw, not really." Dr. Gentry quipped. "He just wants his favorite patients to be pampered, that's all."
"So, what's with all the special treatment? Don't tell me – I'm the millionth patient through the ER doors or something?"
"Very funny – does this place look like Disneyland?" the nurse replied. "We just don't want that dad of yours to order a bombing run on the hospital if we don't take good care of you!" Mattie grinned and said, "Yeah, he's just crazy and protective enough to do it, too!"
Just then, Harm knocked and popped his head inside the door. "Hey, can I see my daughter, or are you still trying to find her brain?"
Mattie narrowed her eyes at him, crossing her arms and glaring as the doctor and nurse chuckled. "Hardy har-har. Maybe YOU should get the sponge bath, Dad!"
Dr. Gentry and the nurse exchanged glances, and then quickly got ready to leave ... their faces coloring quickly. Dr. Gentry quickly spoke: "See you later, Mattie. Remember – eat, then rest! Got it?"
"Got it, doc." They bustled past a confused, flustered Harm, and quickly left. He watched them go, then came into the room to sit next to Mattie.
"Was it something I said?" Mattie asked him, reaching for his hand.
"I'll tell you when you're 50." He smirked at her, meeting her hand with his. She looked more closely at his face, eyebrows raised in surprise and puzzlement.
"Hey – you're blushing!! What just happened here?"
"I'm NOT blushing! And just never you mind, young lady!"
"No one ever tells me anything!" Mattie whined. "Where are Mom, Grams, and Gramps?"
"Downstairs getting coffee. Now, what did the doctor say?"
Mattie filled him in as she waited for lunch, or a sponge bath ...whichever came first.
GW HOSPITAL PARKING LOT
Ellen Valera pulled her car into the visitors' lot of the hospital, flashing her FCS ID at the parking guard and collecting a clip-on visitors' pass from the security officer at the entrance, before heading to the elevators. She needed some coffee before going up to speak with Mattie Grace Johnson and Colonel MacKenzie, and decided to stop in the cafeteria on the second floor first.
Her interview with Admiral Chegwidden and Jen Coates had gone well, judging by the quality of the answers to her questions and the impressions she'd received. She was surprised most of all at the way the entire JAG office, it seemed, had sprung into action once Mattie fell ill ... supporting Commander Rabb and his ward in every way. She knew most civilian offices would not have reacted in the same manner; which spoke volumes, in her opinion, for any future support Mattie could expect from this unique collection of people.
Obviously, the people she'd met so far were committed in helping raise and support Mattie Grace, and Ellen was also mindful of the obvious love Jen Coates has for her "sister", as she referred to Mattie more than once during their interview.
Once she reached the cafeteria, she got in line for coffee and after paying for it and looking for a quick place to get off of her feel for a few minutes, she noticed a group of three people sitting at a table by the window. Two women and a man ... one younger and around her own age, and two older folks who looked like someone's grandparents.
What had initially drawn her attention was the bearing of the younger woman – she sat ramrod in her chair, and Ellen immediately sensed the aura of command from her. The reaction reminded her of her old Lieutenant, back when she was on the DC police force. She guessed that the people she was watching were Colonel Sarah MacKenzie, and probably Harmon Rabb's parents. She decided that this would be a good setting to speak to the Colonel, and got up to cross the half-filled room. After a few steps, she noticed that the young woman had detected her approach, even from a distance, and had immediately stood, watching her as she approached. "Interesting," she thought as she drew near to the group.
The woman who faced her, studying her with a curious expression, was similar to Ellen in look; short dark brown hair, slim build, and medium height. One difference she noticed were the dark brown eyes, as opposed to her own blue eyes. As she got closer, the sense of military service and command grew stronger. Ellen held out her hand as she stepped close, and introduced herself.
"Hello, my name is Ellen Valera, from DC FCS. Are you Colonel MacKenzie?"
"Yes." They shook hands. "Please call me Sarah; I'm out of uniform as you can see. These are Harmon Rabb's parents – Trish and Frank. They got in from California last night to be with Mattie." Ellen shook hands with them both, somewhat amused at the curious, guarded expressions they wore. Mac continued speaking as she waved Ellen to a chair next to her. "I assume you're the social worker who is here to talk about Mr. Johnson's call?"
"Yes. Family and Child Services are conducting interviews around this incident, primarily based on a complaint Mr. Johnson has lodged regarding Mattie's care."
"Her care?" Mac asked her. "You mean here at GW?"
"No. This is regarding the events leading up to her getting sick and losing consciousness while with Jennifer Coates." Before Mac could answer, Trish spoke up.
"Ms. Valera, we think of both Mattie and Jennifer as granddaughters, and we know that Jennifer would give anything to love and protect Mattie!" Trish said. Frank nodded beside her.
"Ma'am, I've just come from the JAG office, where I interviewed both Ms. Coates and Admiral Chegwidden. I heard nothing in those interviews to contradict what you've said, but please understand ... we have procedures that we have to follow for these types of situations. I'm sure the Colonel knows what I mean." She looked at Mac.
"Yes, I do."
"Okay. Here's what I'd like to do. First of all, how is Mattie doing?"
Frank answered. "She feels much better this morning, and right now she's being seen by the doctors. Harm is with her right now."
"That's great. I would like to spend some time talking with her—"
"I don't think she's up for an interrogation, Ms. Valera." Trish said, clearly wanting to protect Mattie. "She's still quite sick, and the doctors tell us she will be here for a couple of days. Can this wait?" Ellen sighed, and turned to her.
"Ma'am, I have no desire to cause Mattie any harm, and my questions won't take too long in any case. I need to speak with her, the doctors treating her, and Miss MacKenzie here – today, if possible. I will accede to the doctor's wishes, of course, but the sooner we deal with this, the quicker I can get out of everyone's hair." Trish studied her for a moment, and had to admit to herself that she appreciated the woman's direct way of speaking; a trait she valued, and cultivated in Sarah, Mattie, and Jennifer. She knew she was extremely protective of all these girls, and that prompted her to speak out a little too quickly sometimes. Frank reached over and squeezed her hand, sensing her need to protect her family. She looked at him, then turned back to Ellen.
"Ms. Valera, please forgive me. I love these girls very much, and I've definitely got 'grandmother's testosterone'. And my son loves Mattie with all his heart – we all do. We're all very protective of both of them. We understand you have a job to do."
"I understand, ma'am. Truly, I do. I think, from what I've seen and heard, that Mattie is a very blessed young lady." She smiled at everyone around her, and the tension seemed to dissipate.
"Why don't I buy you folks some more coffee, and we can talk a while before we head upstairs to see Mattie? Would that be all right?"
They all nodded, and everyone's coffee was replenished ... then they talked about the young girl upstairs.
GW HOSPITAL
ROOM 411
Harm waited in a chair in the hallway while Mattie had a sponge bath, and after the nurse left, he reentered her room to see Mattie rearranging the blankets around her.
"How are you, sweetheart?" he asked, plopping down next to her.
"Oh, great. Just waiting for some food to get here before I starve to death IN A HOSPITAL! And where are Mom and everybody? You didn't say something wrong, did you, dad?"
"Why is it always my fault?" Harm complained. Mattie smirked at him, and he could tell the bantering was on.
"Because Mom always says it is, and you told me earlier you want me to be more like her." She had a wicked grin on her face that made Harm shake his head.
"Are you sure you don't want to be a lawyer instead of an aviator? You sure are good at twisting things around already!" he chided her good-naturedly. "I'm not sure what's keeping them ... maybe Mom found a good-looking doctor to attach herself to ..."
"Dad!! I'm telling Grams you said that! Wait—I really can't talk, since I wouldn't mind being 'attached' to Dr. Masters--yum!!" She deliberately looked away from Harm as she spoke that last part, knowing she couldn't keep from laughing at the look on his face at that moment.
Harm stood, crossing his arms, and giving her one of his mock-sternest looks. "Matilda... "
"Don't call me that!" she automatically replied.
"-- he has got to be at least twice your age! And, you're forgetting my rule."
"WHAT rule?!?" she muttered, looking suspiciously up at him.
"NO dating until AFTER you're married! And I'm not so sure about then ..." Now it was his turn to avoid meeting her eyes, his insides rolling with laughter. She raised her eyebrow, and laid her head back on the pillows. Even sitting next to her, her dad's 6'4" height sometimes made it hard to hold eye contact for long.
"That has GOT to be the lamest rule ever! ... How about we replace it with something easier, like, 'Never wear white after Labor Day.'" He laughed.
"That would render half my wardrobe inactive! Remember me? – Navy officer who wears white as a predominate color?" He wagged his eyebrows at her, and she giggled.
Before she could answer with another barb, the door opened and a nurse came in, pushing a cart with covered plates and other cartons. "Lunchtime!" she announced to the room as she pulled the movable table towards Mattie, positioning it so that she didn't have to move far to eat. Harm and Mattie could smell different aromas from the trays on the plate, and Mattie's stomach growled ... causing her to blush and the nurse and Harm to laugh. "Hungry, are we?" she asked Mattie.
"Very!!"
"When AREN'T you hungry, would be a better question ..." Harm whispered.
"I HEARD that! Nurse, my dad is bugging me – could you give him a shot or something?"
She smiled, looking up at the tall man standing by the bed. "Sorry, honey ... he's paying your bill, and he's also a lot bigger than I am – two really good reasons for me not to get involved."
Sighing, Mattie muttered, "That's the problem with hospitals these days – no one wants to get involved!" The nurse raised her eyebrow.
"Speaking of shots..." she drawled, letting a little menace slip into her voice.
"OK, ok ... I give up!!!" Mattie quickly spoke.
The nurse winked at Harm as she pulled a tray with a couple of covered plates out, setting it on Mattie's table. "Ok, smartie ... for you today we have some nice tomato soup, along with a half-portion of grilled trout. The doctor doesn't want to give you too much right away. Oh—and some milk, too. She was VERY insistent on the milk."
"Mattie, you get started ... I'm going to go see what's happened with Mac and your grandparents. Be right back." He kissed her on the top of her head as she started slowly eating her soup, under the watchful eye of the nurse. "Eat slowly, and no bribing the nurse for a Beltway Burger."
Mattie had taken a few sips of the soup, and paused before continuing. "That reminds me – can I have some money, Dad?" There was a glint in her eye that made the nurse laugh. Harm turned at the doorway to point a finger at her.
"Eat and behave!"
She smirked at him, a piece of trout on her fork. He shook his head, grinning as he left in search of Mac and his parents.
GOOD HOPE TREATMENT CENTER
The counselor on duty had just brought good news to Tom – his request for an emergency pass to visit Mattie had been granted. Now he could spend some time with his daughter, and if he had to throw everyone else out of her room to do so, he would. He'd only been given a six-hour pass, though, and had to leave soon in order to make it to GW so he would have enough time to spend with Mattie, before returning to the center.
His anxiety and nervousness had gradually increased as he'd waited to hear about his request, the feelings of needing a drink magnifying as time passed. He knew that would be the very worst thing, both for him and for Mattie-to show up at the hospital with alcohol on his breath. She'd never speak to him again, and he'd lose custody for good.
But there were ways, he knew, to mask the smell of alcohol. Just one drink to calm his nerves wouldn't make any difference.
His inner voices wrestled with each other as he gathered his things to leave.
END OF CHAPTER 16