"Tested Hearts" Chapter 20
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: PG
Author's Notes: Thanks to the following recent reviewers:
jtbwriter Great points in your reviews! Re: the decision not to prosecute I gave to Mac because I wanted to show someone considering what's really best for Mattie, other than justice for Tom (at least, at this point in time). Make sense? Sasha's a GREAT choice--no one balances cop work and humanity like Gibbs' profiler! (Well, Mac is right up there, too!) Hope the new chapter gives you more insights, and I'm sorry you had to wait so long. Life intruded.
starryeyes10 Thanks!
Lyssa Grace So, what do YOU think that look meant?
Manda May Hiya, Manda! Shipperness coming soon—although, probably not from who you're thinking of! Stay tuned!
Thanks to everyone else who has reviewed. Apologize for the wait. Reviews are encouraged!
HARM'S BUILDING, NORTH OF UNION STATIONHarm, Jen, and his parents trudged from their cars into the building where Harm, Jen, and Mattie lived … feeling exhausted from the events of the day. As the elevator carried them to the second floor, Harm's thoughts were on both Mac and Mattie, still at the hospital. He felt the truth of Mac's last words to him as he looked at the worn faces around him; they all could use a good night's sleep. Especially Jen; the young woman had been quiet since they'd left the hospital, and wore a look of conflicting emotions on her weary face.
Feeling his eyes on her, she looked up …giving him a wan smile as she saw the concern on his face. "I'm all right, Harm. Just … beat." He gave her a grin.
"Reading my mind, Jen?" His question brought some more life to her tired eyes, and the irreverent nature he loved in her came to the fore.
"I'm sure that I'm way too young and naïve to hear the things that go through your mind, sir." Jen had a unique ability to make a tease or inference always sound downright respectful; something he knew the Admiral secretly liked about her, too -- when he was in a good mood, that is. His eyes widened at the impish grin on her face. He turned to his parents with a 'mock' aggrieved look … as his mother smirked, and Frank unsuccessfully tried to hide a grin with his fingers.
"See what I have to put up with?" he asked, in as much of a wounded voice as he could muster.
"Oh, hush, dear … anyway, she's right." Trish answered. Both Frank and Jen laughed as Harm, raising his eyebrows, gave his mom a hurt, pouty look.
"Mom!"
"What? You know, Matilda's told me about some of the jokes you tell around her, and I have to say I'm not exactly thrilled with my granddaughter hearing that stuff."
"Oh, come on!" Harm exclaimed, "…you make it sound like I'm cursing up a storm around her! You know me better than that, Mom! She's a smart girl – she can read between the lines as well as anyone."
Keeping her eyes on Harm, Jen spoke directly to Trish. "He's corrupting us girls, Mrs. Rabb. It's absolutely shameful!" She decided to pile on while Harm was vulnerable around his parents; she didn't get many chances quite like this to tease and embarrass him. The look on Harm's face was memorable. She really shouldn't tease him as much as she did, but most of the time … she just couldn't help herself. The fact that Mattie teased him even more just made it harder for her to resist.
"I'm sure Harm is conducting himself as a gentleman around these ladies," Frank said. He just HAD to come to Harm's aid; sometimes, the poor guy just got royally beat up around these women.
"Thanks, Frank. At least SOMEONE around here doesn't see a target every time they look at me!" Harm said, pointedly looking at Jen–-who suddenly yawned as the elevator opened onto their floor. Trish smiled, took Jen's arm in hers, and started walking to Jen and Mattie's place … speaking over her shoulder at the two men following, "Harm, Frank … I'll stay in Mattie's room tonight. You boys take your place, and Jen and I will see you at breakfast." Frank and Harm grinned at each other; they knew that she'd picked up on Jen's emotional distress, and decided to take care of her tonight. Harm nodded.
"I'll make omelets for everyone in the morning. Night, Mom … Jen." He went to both women, giving both tight hugs and getting smiles in return … then went to open his apartment door as Frank kissed his wife goodnight, then gave Jen a kiss on her cheek … which brought a shy smile to her face. Jen hadn't yet fully realized that Harm's folks felt the same way about her that they did about Mattie; as far as they were concerned, Jen was their 'granddaughter' as well, and they'd do anything for her. Mattie had taken to Harm's folks right away; opening her heart to them as any teenage girl who craved the love of grandparents would. Jen, though, was more … guarded with her emotions. Not that she didn't care for Trish and Frank – quite the opposite, in fact. Harm knew that it was harder in some ways for her; he knew better than anyone about the emotional scars Jen carried from her own not-so-recent childhood; scars that sometimes kept Jen from being entirely comfortable with the open love and acceptance his parents gave her.
Jen Coates had a big heart, Harm knew … but she'd learned through painful experiences to keep it protected. The people whom she cared deeply for … Harm and his folks, Mac, the Roberts, Sturgis, the Admiral, and especially Mattie … all knew how Jen felt about them. Sometimes, though … she found it hard to accept the fact that their feelings for her were just as strong. Still, Harm mused, watching Jen softly whisper something to Frank before waving, and following Trish to the door of her place … Mattie herself was chiefly responsible for helping to alter that aspect of Jen's personality. She helped keep Jen more in touch with her emotions; and Jen was a great model of sensitivity, intelligence, and strength for Mattie.
They were perfectly balanced as 'sisters' … and had a fierce, deep love for each other that sometimes blew Harm away. He thought of the many times they'd gotten comments from strangers while in public; as many people commented on the two "sisters" together, as it was assumed he and Mac were a married couple and the two girls' parents. It always made them all laugh; Harm sensed that they all took as much pleasure in hearing those comments as he did.
One of the best things he'd ever done was to ask Jen to live with Mattie. And, he was also sure … one of the best things Jen had ever done for herself was accept.
He watched them close the door behind them, listening as they threw all the locks … then turned to follow Frank into his own place.
JEN AND MATTIE'S APT"Would you like some tea, dear?" Trish asked the younger woman, who'd wandered over to the window in the living room, and was staring out at the dark street after they'd entered the apartment and dropped their purses. Jen turned towards her, and smiled. "I don't think we have any tea in the house, ma'am." As Jen turned back to the windows, Trish studied her for a moment before answering.
"It's 'Trish', or 'Grams' if you prefer, Jen. I'm not one of your superior officers. I keep packets of tea in my purse to have something relaxing to drink wherever I am, and when I need it." She moved to the kitchen, taking the coffee decanter to the sink and filling it with water.
"That would be nice … Trish. Thanks." she heard Jen whisper. She heard the gratitude in the younger woman's voice – and not just for the tea. Trish wanted Jen to know she respected her as a young adult, and being on a first name basis helped that along. She nodded to herself at Jen's apparent acceptance of their relationship, and then spoke aloud in reply.
"You're welcome, dear. Some tea will help you sleep tonight."
She heard Jen sigh, and watched her as she trudged to the couch in the living room. "I hope so. I really didn't expect to be in a fight when I came to visit Mattie tonight." The emotions in her voice were readily apparent to Trish. She could only imagine the variety of feelings that must be flowing through Jen at that moment; worry and concern over Mattie, anger at Tom Johnson, her anxiety over the possible repercussions over her actions in Mattie's hospital room earlier, and uncertainty over what it all meant for the future.
Trish placed the decanter on the burner to heat, and wiped her hands on a cloth before coming over to sit next to Jen. Frustration and weariness flowed off of her as Trish took one of Jen's hands in hers. She spoke softly after gathering her thoughts for a moment.
"No one could have anticipated what happened tonight, Jen. But Mattie is safe, and she'll be OK … thanks in no small way to you. You were protecting her, sweetie, and that man should count his lucky stars he wasn't tossed out of the window. You did nothing wrong tonight."
The hard look that passed over Jen's face at that moment caught Trish by surprise. "It occurred to me, afterward, believe me – tossing that idiot through the window, I mean. At least I kept enough control not to do that in front of Mattie. A few seconds later, Trish – I don't know." Jen shook her head, then glanced at Trish hesitatingly before continuing. "I heard Mac call out to me, Trish, I really did; I guess the words didn't get through or something." There was a look of self-loathing on Jen's face that worried Trish. The younger woman swallowed a couple of times before continuing. "But, when I heard Mattie … I knew I had to stop myself from going after that gorilla. I couldn't let her down and make things worse. I just wanted to get him away from everybody. I honestly thought Harm would go up against him before I did." Trish watched her face, suddenly realizing that Jen had hesitated as long as she could before acting. As she thought over the sequence of events earlier, she could see in her mind's eye the careful way Jen had moved behind Johnson, waiting for someone to stop him before she had to act. It was a display of control and tactics; not of someone out of control. Trish wondered if she'd ever have to describe her interpretations of Jen's behavior on a witness stand.
She sighed, knowing that it was more important to help Jen regain some emotional equilibrium. "He would have, if you hadn't moved so fast yourself. Harm is an experienced line officer, and has been in many battles – but he's also a loving father who would do anything he had to in order to protect Mattie and everyone else in that room. You just acted a little faster, Jen, and I admire you so much for the what you didn't do, as much as for what you did." Jen looked at her, an uncertain but hopeful look in her dark eyes. There was also gratitude in them as well; she sensed that Mattie wasn't the only person Jen didn't want to let down. Jen nodded, gathering her thoughts.
"Yeah, I guess so. I still can't believe I did that. I mean–all I was trying to do was to pull him away from Andre. The next thing I knew, I was watching him pick himself up off the floor – behind me. I don't even remember grabbing his collar! And how did I haul a 200 pound guy off of his feet with one hand, anyway?" She shivered, shaking her head…and Trish squeezed her hand.
"You just … reacted to an immediate threat, Jen. People can do amazing things when they find themselves in a situation like that. When someone in your family is threatened, you just—do what you have to do to keep the people you care for safe."
"Family … yeah." Jen sighed, suddenly lost in thought. Trish heard the wistful tone in Jen's soft voice, and turned around a little to face her.
"You are, you know." Trish said. Jen gave her a slightly confused look.
"What?"
Trish held Jen's eyes for several beats before answering. "Family." Jen returned Trish's gaze … and then her eyelids slowly closed, letting the sudden rush of feelings Trish's words brought wash over her. Trish leaned over and gave Jen a kiss on her cheek, then smiled at her.
Jen slowly opened her eyes to see Trish smiling, quietly gazing at her. She sighed, and laid her head on Trish's shoulder … then felt Trish's arms wrap around her. The two women sat that way until they heard the water start to boil in the kitchen. Reluctantly, they got up from the couch and moved over to the small kitchen area. Jen got two cups from the cupboard while Trish prepared the tea. As the aromas filled the kitchen, Jen breathed deeply and said, "Mmm…chamomile."
"You like it?" Trish was a little surprised; she didn't know too many young people who knew about and liked drinking tea.
"I have some in my desk at work, for those times the Admiral is in one of his 'salty' moods." Jen answered, a wry smile on her lips. Trish nodded in understanding. Harm had explained to her about Admiral Chegwidden's reaction to the breakup of his engagement around his staff, and she reasoned that Jen would be the closest target for his wrath.
"Does he 'go off' on you often?"
Jen looked at her in surprise. "Did you just use the phrase, 'go off'?" Trish raised her eyebrows in mock annoyance.
"What, I can't be hip?" Jen laughed, nearly choking on her first few sips of the hot, aromatic tea before regaining control.
"Sure you can, Trish." She cocked her head at the older woman, thoughtfully studying her for a few beats; then suddenly blurting out-- "It was Mattie, right?"
Trish hesitated, wondering whether Jen would buy her story of naturally knowing the phrase and its' proper use. She decided, after seeing the merriment in Jen's eyes … that she most likely wouldn't. She sighed, and slumped her shoulders in mock defeat.
"Yeah. So my granddaughter's been keeping me in the 'cool' loop. Don't you dare rat me out to any of the others, young lady!" She shook her finger at Jen, who giggled.
"Oh nooooo … never would I do that!" Jen tried but failed to hide the mischievous look on her face as she sipped her tea. Trish narrowed her eyes, deciding a change of subject would be in order. She could always threaten Jen again later, for effect.
"So--what do you think of Andre? Matilda seems fond of him. Her eyes lit up when he came to visit yesterday."
Jen glanced at Trish, a thoughtful look on her face.
"He's a good kid. She met him when she first started at the school she attends, and they have some classes together. He actually was the first person she got to know there. He helps her with the math and science stuff that she's a little weak on – and that he's good at; she gives him a hand with literature, a subject he's not especially fond of, from what he tells me. She would come home and tell me things about him, and then I noticed they started talking on the phone. They probably e-mail quite a bit, too. He lives with his grandmother and seven year-old sister; his dad left his mom when he was a baby, and she died soon after his sister was born." Trish winced in sympathy; what a heartbreaking story. It was a wonder Andre could stand to be anywhere near a hospital. She was still thinking about what Jen had just told her when she continued. "I think Mattie trusts him, which is a big thing with her. Mattie's made some girl friends at school, and she does spend time with them … but I don't sense the same level of friendship with them that she has with Andre." Trish nodded; Mattie had told her about her girlfriends during their conversations, and had mentioned Andre as well … but not in the way Jen was describing him now, and what she'd seen of him. She was intrigued. "They're very fond of each other," Jen continued, "--that's for sure. And that was a very sweet, thoughtful gift he gave her. Are you worried, Trish?" Trish raised her eyebrows; Jen had sensed the direction of her thoughts pretty easily. Harm had mentioned that Jen had an ability to 'read' people with amazing insight; here was proof of her talents. She had worried a little about the situation before, but after tonight … there wasn't any reason for her to worry—she'd watched Andre step between Tom and Johnson without hesitating, without any apparent concern for himself, as well as everyone else. That act in itself spoke volumes to Trish about Andre's character. She felt Jen's thoughtful gaze on her.
"Oh, no. I sense the same things from him, although I'm curious about what exactly it is that draws them to each other. I don't mean that in a bad way–I don't really know the young man."
"Well, he's smart as a whip, respectful, polite, wants to enlist into the Navy, too … and you saw what he did tonight. He didn't hesitate to step into the fray to protect Mattie, even if Tom is her natural father. Andre has a lot of respect for family bonds; he once asked me on the phone if he needed to call Harm to let him know he was calling Mattie on the phone! And I think Harm likes him a lot." Jen answered her. Trish nodded thoughtfully.
"Yes, I think so, too. My son has excellent instincts about people, and Matilda has a good head on her shoulders. For someone so young, she has well-developed instincts about people, and I think I need to trust her regarding this young man."
Jen smiled. She would have suggested the same thing if asked. "If you're wondering, I don't think there's anything 'romantic' going on, Trish. They're just really good friends. How would you feel, though, if there was something more between them—just out of curiosity?" Jen asked. Trish took a sip of her tea, then pursed her lips in thought.
"Honestly? I don't know, Jen. I come from a different generation, understand … so I have a little of that baggage in my perspective. Still, I've always believed in and taught Harm to take people as they are and treat people equally, and I want Matilda to be the same way." Jen nodded in understanding.
"I do, too. Hey--I just realized something … a thought that's been rattling around in my head about Andre. He makes me think what Sturgis must have been like at that age, for some reason."
"Hmm. Now, that's Interesting." Trish sipped some of her tea. "They DO seem to carry around that same code of personal honor, don't they?" Jen enthusiastically nodded.
"That's it, exactly. And Sturgis is one of Harm's best friends, and his best male friend. Maybe Harm sees the same things in Andre that he sees in Sturgis … and if that's true, then we're lucky. Sturgis is a very good man."
"I didn't think you knew Sturgis all that well." Trish remarked.
"I don't, actually. Not like I know Mac, Bud or Harriet. Commander Turner is … reserved. Thoughtful. Friendly, but there's an aura of … independence … about him. Doesn't say much, but when he does say something – I notice people pay close attention to him. Even the Admiral gives his thoughts a lot of consideration. He's one of the most honorable, courteous men I know. And Harm trusts him with his life."
"He does. How does Matilda get along with him?"
"They haven't spent a lot of time around each other, really. But when they are, they rag on Harm something fierce! She also makes Sturgis laugh, which is something he seems to appreciate about her. Everyone loves her sense of humor. Sturgis actually has the same type of dry wit, and I've also seen signs of it in Andre, as well. Wonder what it would be like with the three of them together?" She finished the rest of her tea.
"Hmm … maybe we should invite Sturgis over for a meal after Matilda comes home and is back in good health. Harm's already mentioned something about it to Andre – that might be our chance to watch what happens!" The gleam in Trish's eyes made Jen grin, shaking her head in relief.
"I'm sure glad you're on my side, Trish!" The older woman chuckled.
"Likewise, dear. Now, if you want to stay on my good side, it's time for you to get some sleep. You've had a long day, and there's tomorrow ahead. I'm headed to Matilda's room – good night, Jen."
Jen smiled, thinking to herself that the 'Navy blanket' she'd joked with the Admiral about earlier extended to newly-acquired 'grandmothers' as well. She rinsed both of their cups and placed them on the drainer, then turned back to Trish.
"Thanks for the talk, and the tea. Night." She leaned in to Trish a kiss on her cheek, and Trish smiled, inwardly pleased that Jen felt comfortable enough with her to do so.
"You're welcome, dear. Now, git--no more dawdling! I'll see you in the morning."
Jen laughed, shaking her head as she suddenly yawned, slowly heading for her bedroom.
Trish turned off the lights in the kitchen and living room, sighing as she removed her shoes and headed for Mattie's room.
HARM'S APARTMENT"Harm, let me just clear my gear out of your bedroom, so I can take the couch." Harm looked over at Frank after grabbing a couple of bottles of juice and closing the refrigerator door.
"No way, Frank … you keep the bed. I'll take the couch."
"Harm—"
"That's an order, Frank. Stay there. You're my guest." Harm knew that Frank had recurring back problems, and there was no way he'd let the older man sleep on the couch after his parents' quick, unplanned flight out from California to see Mattie.
"If that's what you want … thanks. I appreciate it." Frank smiled in gratitude.
"My pleasure. So, do you think Mom's got Jen calmed down yet? Maybe I should go over there, check up on her …" Frank held up his hand as Harm put down his bottle of juice and headed for the front door of the apartment.
"I wouldn't, Harm. You mother knows what to do and say. I suspect they're both sharing a couple of cups of Trish's chamomile tea right now. She understands what Jen's going through – she knows her better than you realize. Trust me; the FBI should employ grandmothers as profilers, and your mom would be the best of them all." Harm smiled, suddenly remembering the packets of tea his mother always carried with her. Strangely enough, as much as Harm enjoyed eating healthy, he'd never developed a taste for chamomile tea … something that saddened his mother, he knew. She enjoyed chatting over her tea.
"Yeah. She's always known me better than I did. Shouldn't be surprised that would also extend to Jen."
Frank took off his suit jacket, hanging it on a hook by the front door. "She loves Jen very much, Harm. To her, both Jen and Mattie are 'granddaughters' in every important sense of the word. I feel the same way, in case you were wondering."
Harm smiled at the older man as they sat near the island in the kitchen space. "I wasn't. Never doubted it for a minute. What were you two whispering about in the hallway, anyway?"
Frank gave him a teasing grin. "I told her that I'd be the first one to sign up--in case she ever decided to teach self-defense classes."
Harm laughed. "Knowing Jen, that probably boosted her ego--while embarrassing her at the same time."
"I wish she was more self-confident. She's an excellent person, and a wonderful role model for Mattie – who's told us so many, many times." Frank said.
"I know. Mattie sure loves Jen. That's one thing I did right, at least … convincing her to come and live with Mattie."
Frank raised his eyebrows at the uncertain tone in his stepson's voice. "You have done lots of things right, Harm. You took Mattie into your heart and life, gave her a stable home, helped Jen redeem her life, along with giving her the sister she never had … gave Sarah a girl to love and connect with in a 'maternal' way … gave them ALL to Trish and me to love and spoil – AND, you haven't shot up any courtrooms or fallen out of any jets in months!" Harm raised his eyebrows, then narrowed his eyes in a mock glare as Frank laughed. He glanced up at the ceiling in a beseeching manner.
"Will I EVER live the 'gun in the courtroom' thing down? And I didn't 'fall out' of that jet – I had to eject, or I'd have been wearing it all the way to the bottom of the Atlantic … where Mac wouldn't have ever found me." Frank chuckled.
"I know, son. Just teasing. Your mother and I would just prefer it sometimes, though, if your life weren't so … interesting. And, we're beyond grateful to Sarah for helping the Navy rescue you that night. We were frightened out of our wits, but your mother and I never doubted you'd come back to us."
Harm swallowed the last of his juice, tossing the empty bottle in the recycle bag under the sink.
"There were definitely a lot of miracles being tossed my way that night- for me and 'Skates.'" he agreed.
"God sent you both back, Harm. Your time wasn't up yet." Harm studied Frank's face for a moment.
"Never figured you for a religious man, Frank."
"Trust me, Harm … after that night, it's a lot easier for me to believe. You know, Sarah's part of the reason for that, too."
"Mac?" Harm asked, puzzlement in his voice. Frank knew he'd 'lost' the younger man with that statement.
"Sure. Haven't you ever wondered about what it is she 'taps into', with those abilities of hers? Being able to always know what time it is without needing to look at a clock, and also able to sense where you were that night … when millions of dollars of the best of military equipment couldn't find you, in the middle of a bad electrical and rain storm—right AFTER a stressful marriage rehearsal that must have been screwing with her emotional state to begin with?" Frank asked him. Harm shrugged. He'd never really thought about that night in quite that way. All he usually remembered from the incident was the frigidly cold water, and his rescued RIO squeezing his ice-cold hands and begging him not to give up when they'd gotten him back onboard in sickbay.
As grateful as he was to Skates for bringing him back to the land of the living that terrible night, it wasn't a memory he willingly returned to. Shaking off the sudden feelings that had overcome him, he returned to his conversation with his stepfather.
"Mac and I have always had a … connection … between us, Frank. We've been through so much together. Anyway, she's got the abilities, not me. Well, except for the fact that it's almost impossible for her to sneak up on me–-I can always tell when she's close by, and it drives her nuts!" Harm and Frank laughed, then… remembering several instances when Mac had tried, unsuccessfully, to defeat Harm's ability to sense her proximity. "It would be nice to be able to always know where Mattie is, though. And then there's Jen, with her 'superhero' moves …" Frank quickly nodded.
"You have to admit – that WAS amazing, what she did to Johnson!" Frank said, admiration in his voice. Harm shook his head in amazement; what Jen had done tonight would become legend in the Rabb family, no doubt.
"I was standing right there, and I still don't believe it. You saw Tom, Frank … he's no 'ninety-pound weakling.'"
"No, but he's a lightweight in other ways. The guy's got some issues, for sure. You want him to get the drinking thing under control--but that might also mean Mattie leaves with him someday."
Harm sighed heavily.
"I know. Tears me up inside, but if he ever got his life straight, then … I think they both deserve a second chance to make up for the past, and how Mattie lost her mother. I would never stand in the way of Mattie regaining that kind of resolution in her life. It would kill me, but if it's the best thing for her …" Frank nodded his understanding. "I feel bad for him, Frank … I do. But he's not ready – not by a long shot. And I don't know if he ever will be, if he can't drop the paranoia he's shown lately. Meanwhile, Mattie's still a young, very impressionable girl, and she doesn't need to be in the middle of all that. Tom himself agreed with Mac on that last Christmas … but now it looks like he's decided we're the enemy. That's OK, though, because I'm going to fight him for Mattie every inch of the way from here on out."
Frank saw the determined warriors' look on Harm's face, and was inwardly pleased. Still, what he had to say next needed to be said.
"You and Mattie need to have a long talk, Harm, when she's back home and healthy again. You have to find out what she's thinking and feeling, about everything that's happened. She might still be willing to forgive him, even after tonight - you have to give her that choice."
"I know." Harm's voice sounded heavy in the quiet room. "I don't like it, but I know you're right. She'll never have a real peace about it unless she knows that it is HER choice to make. I just … love her so much, Frank. I can't bear to think about life without her."
Frank reached over, grasping Harm's shoulder. "She knows you love her, son. In her heart, where she needs to know it, she does. And she loves you, too—more than you know. Trust in that. Draw strength from it. That's what will get you both through this. The rest of us … we all love you both very deeply, you know that. But the core of this whole thing boils down to what you and Mattie have with each other. What's been there since the first time you two met."
Harm nodded at the counsel of the older man. He'd felt it, the bond between them, since the very beginning. Mattie had, as well. They'd never really sat down and discussed it; it was just there. They both simply knew they belonged in each other's life.
"I can't lose her, Frank." Harm whispered … walking over to gaze out of the window into the darkness of the night. Frank watched him silently for a moment, seeing the father Harm had become at that moment.
"You won't, Harm. You belong to each other." Still looking past the glass, Harm blew out a breath.
After a few minutes of comfortable silence, Frank spoke again, getting up from the stool he sat on.
"Well, I need to hit the hay. You should try to get some sleep, too, son."
"Yeah. Thanks, Frank – for everything."
"You're welcome, Harm. Good night, and sleep well."
GW HOSPITALEllen called her boss to bring him up to speed on the events of the evening, after watching the DC cops escort Tom Johnson off of hospital grounds to return him to the treatment center. He told her he'd have the night duty staffer at FCS fill out the paperwork for the protection order request, and she'd be able to pick it up on her way to court tomorrow. He'd checked; the judge overseeing Mattie's case had docket space open at 9:30 tomorrow morning, and he would contact the judge's clerk to get Ellen time on her schedule of cases.
She then told him about Tom's apparent intent to file a complaint against Jen Coates, and possibly Andre Biggs as well, for their involvement in the incident in Mattie's room … as well as against the hospital itself. The charge against Andre was dead in the water, they knew; as a minor in good standing, no judge would waste court time and paperwork on it. Coates' case might be the most difficult to make go away, since she did make an unprovoked move against Johnson, he might have the best chance against her--if it went that far. The hospital was covered, since they neither provoked nor caused the incident. And if they were found at fault for anything, their insurance would cover any penalties … for all the good it did Johnson in his case with Mattie.
"Coates will be represented by her boss, most likely." Ellen told him.
"He a lawyer?" he asked. Ellen chuckled into the phone.
"Only the Judge Advocate General of the US Navy." She grinned at her boss's answering laugh.
"Well, good luck with that, then, Mr. Johnson! You have any idea what juice that guy could bring to bear in a court? Civilian or no, no judge in their right mind is going to nail the JAG's yeoman for what she did – even if Johnson's lawyer somehow proves assault. At most, they'll let the Navy determine her punishment--assuming it even gets that far."
"You think so?" Ellen asked him. She was glad Jen apparently wouldn't have to worry about the silly charges, or having them hang over her head and career.
"Oh, yeah. From what you've told me about these folks around Mattie, the civilian courts won't want to get anywhere near it. I hope whoever Johnson gets to represent him is smart enough to realize that--and advises his or her client accordingly. Meanwhile, the further Johnson pushes it, the more of a no-win thing it becomes with the custody case – not to mention his relationship with his daughter."
Ellen sighed.
"I sure don't want to see Mattie put through any of this – all I want to do is get her out of here and back home where she belongs." Ellen told him. "Her guardian's family is well-equipped to deal with Johnson, and we'll just have to see how the judge decides the custody case."
"Amen to that, Ellen. Well, nothing more to be done tonight. Hospital made a good move posting their guard on Mattie - no telling if this idiot will try to come back or not. Anyway, anybody over there squawks about time or cost of having their guard in place, let me know. I'll make some calls to the hospital administrators."
"I wouldn't worry, boss. Dr. Masters was very insistent. If the hospital pulls the guard for Mattie, I'm sure the Navy will be more than happy to take over."
Her boss chuckled over the phone. "Gods, that girl sure has picked herself a family, huh? What a case!"
"No argument from me there, boss!" Ellen exclaimed, chuckling herself.
"Hmm. You heading home now, Ellen?"
"Not just yet. I'm going to see if I can interview Sarah MacKenzie while I have the chance; she's staying with Mattie overnight. Having a Marine colonel's statement on record will help with the court tomorrow. Then I'll head home to see if my dog is still speaking to me … after I left him in the lurch to rush over here." She heard another chuckle on her cell phone.
"You gotta get a social life, Valera, like I keep telling you." Ellen snorted good-naturedly.
"Maybe next century, boss. Good night."
"Night, Ellen. See you in the morning."
ROOM 411Ellen stepped off of the elevator and was glad to see the security guard outside Mattie's room as he acknowledged her presence, then relax as he recognized her. She walked over to where he stood, glancing through the window of the room and seeing Mac sitting next to a sleeping Mattie, holding the girl's hand in hers.
"How are they doing?" Ellen asked the guard, in a soft voice … not wanting to disturb Mac.
"Everything's quiet, ma'am." the guard replied. "We heard from the DC officers; they're on their way back over here, and it looks like Bosch is going to relieve me when they arrive."
"Good. Thanks for staying." Ellen told him.
"No problem. I wish we'd done a better job of keeping her father away earlier … we feel bad about that."
"Don't blame yourselves–until tonight, we hadn't seen this side of him. There was no warning, really. What's important is what happens next." The guard nodded, glancing into the room before replying.
"Well, if you ask me – that little girl should stay with the folks she's with now … it's obvious they really love her, especially her guardians." He nodded in Mac's direction. "Is it true she doesn't have any kids of her own?"
"Yep." Ellen answered, wondering where the guard was going with this. He shook his head.
"Wouldn't have been able to tell any different by me. Same thing with that tall Navy guy. They really love that girl."
"That they do," Ellen replied. "Well, I need to chat with her for a bit – let us know when your relief arrives?" she asked him.
"Sure thing, ma'am."
Ellen stepped to the door of the room, slowly opened it, and entered as quietly as she could. Mac turned at the sound of the door, grinning when she saw who had entered. Ellen moved to stand next to Mac, and placed a hand on her shoulder.
"How is she?" she asked. Mac smiled up at her.
"She's good. Sleeping like a baby. Her color's getting better, and her skin isn't as hot to the touch as it was earlier."
"That's great, Sarah. And you?" Mac shrugged, and Ellen could feel the tremors that coursed through Mac's body under her hand. She reached down, pulling a surprised Mac to her feet, and enveloped her in a hug. Mac's body shuddered once at the pent-up emotions that still tore at her from the events earlier in the evening … then seemed to melt into the embrace, wrapping her arms around Ellen. Ellen rubbed her back a few times, and Mac laid her head on Ellen's shoulder.
"Thanks – I really needed one of these," she whispered to Ellen, who nodded.
"Anytime. There's nothing like the power of a good hug. We'll get her out of here and home soon, Sarah – I promise."
The two women separated, smiling at each other … then Ellen asked her, "Can I get you anything?"
Mac wiped her suddenly wet eyes with a palm. "No, I'm good, thanks. I guess you want to talk about what happened earlier?"
"Only if you feel up to—"
A sudden sharp gasp from Mattie caught their attention, muffled only slightly by the oxygen mask on her face. Both women turned to her as Mattie's hands and arms suddenly moved in jerky motions, as if she were trying to ward off some attack.
"Mattie?" Mac whispered, reaching for one of her hands. As soon as their skin touched, Mattie gasped again, jerking her hand away from the contact. Ellen glanced at the monitor by the bed, and saw Mattie's pulse indicator suddenly quicken. There were no alerts, though … it looked as though Mattie was having some kind of nightmare.
Her head shifted back and forth against the pillow, and they watched her lips move … she was talking in her sleep. Ellen and Mac glanced at each other, and then Ellen whispered, "I think we need to try to take the mask off and see if we can gently wake her." Mac nodded, and went to try to hold Mattie's still-moving hands, while Ellen carefully slipped the mask from around her mouth. As soon as the mask was off, Mattie gasped again, loudly moaned once – then screamed, "Dad!" Her eyes flashed open, and she looked around the room in fright, as the security guard threw open the door.
"Should I get a nurse?" he asked, watching Mattie flail around on the bed. Ellen, trying to help Mac restrain her, nodded at him. He left … moving quickly down the hall to the nursing station.
"Mattie … you're having a bad dream, sweetie. Wake up, baby …" Mac whispered. She didn't seem to hear Mac's soft words, and continued to struggle in the grasp of the two women beside her. Ellen tried next, grasping her chin and trying to hold her confused, scared eyes on hers.
"Mattie, wake up. It's OK, Mattie … you're all right. Mom's here, and everything's ok. Shh…its' all right, Mattie – come on, honey…" Mattie shivered, her eyes slowly focusing on her surroundings. Ellen let go of her chin as Mattie's eyes found Mac's, and she suddenly threw herself into her arms, sobbing into her neck … holding on for dear life.
"Mom???" The raspy, sleep-filled whisper, filled with night terrors, tore at the hearts of both women next to her. Mac pulled Mattie tight against her, Mattie's sudden sobs shaking them both.
"I'm right here, baby, and you're OK. Just a bad dream … a bad dream, that's all … I've got you …" she softly spoke, rocking Mattie in her arms. There was a sound at the door as the nurse quickly entered, followed by the guard … and Ellen held up a hand to stop them, still watching Mattie's face.
"Mom, what … where … ???" Her wet eyes were still closed, and Mac gently ran her fingers through Mattie's long hair, still rocking her.
"You're still in the hospital, sweetie … but you'll be fine, I promise. You were just having a bad dream, that's all. Everything's OK … shhh, don't be afraid … I won't let anything happen to you, ok?"
Mattie tightened her arms around Mac in answer, her sobs slowly quieting.
"Dream?" she whispered, feeling Mac nod against her.
"Yeah, baby. Just a bad dream, that's all. You're safe …"
After another moment, Mac glanced over at Ellen, then she asked Mattie, "Do you remember what your dream was about, honey?"
Mattie pulled slightly away from her, and both Ellen and Mac could see her try to process what had been in her mind. They watched her sleepy eyes widen suddenly, and Mattie quickly shook her head … unable to speak. Her entire face was filled with terror, and both Ellen and Mac knew then that she wasn't ready to face what she'd dreamed about. Ellen decided to get her mind off of the obviously frightening mental images she wrestled with.
"Hey, Mattie." Ellen sat next to her, and smiled. Both Mattie and Mac turned their heads to look at Ellen. "It's all right – you don't have to think about that right now, ok?" She glanced at Mac, who nodded. "Do you think it would be OK if the nurse here took a look at you? She wants to make sure you're OK. Would that be all right?" Ellen's soft timbre and gentle smile seemed to calm Mattie, and she meekly nodded at both Ellen and the nurse; who was smiling at her as well. Mac wondered how many times Ellen had done this before, and was grateful for the experienced social worker's presence. Mattie suddenly asked in a tiny voice, "can…can Mom stay with me?" The nurse smiled again as she took Ellen's place next to Mattie, and said, "sure she can, hon. Now, I just need to take your pulse, then I'm going to listen to your breathing a little, OK? You hang onto Mom, there … and I'll be done in a sec." Mattie returned to Mac's arms as the nurse checked her pulse … then she raised Mattie's gown slightly to place her stethoscope on a few spots on her chest and back … the guard having left the room and closed the door to give them privacy. "Mattie, hon--take a deep breath for me, OK? Good, that's good … now, another one – great, honey, you're doing great. Now, one more … and hold this one for a little, OK? All right – breathe, and hold – OK!" She removed her stethoscope, smiling at Ellen and Mac as she gently removed the ox mask from around Mattie's neck…then smiled as she looked in Mattie's eyes again.
"You, hon, are going to make Dr. Masters very happy when he sees you in the morning! How do you feel?" Mattie looked from her, to Mac, and Ellen; then back to the nurse, who all gave her encouraging smiles. "I … um … feel better, I guess," she answered in a raspy voice. "I don't feel hot, like I did before. And my chest doesn't hurt anymore." The nurse nodded. "Well, that's what I wanted to hear. And," the nurse leaned closer, whispering conspiratorially, "why don't we let Dr. Masters and that young man who was visiting you earlier decide how 'hot' you are, ok?" The nurse winked, then, and Mattie's eyes widened as she blushed, dipping her head into Mac's neck, going back to her arms as well … at the moment, a shy, little girl. Mac hugged her tightly as the nurse got up to move to the storage cabinets in the room. She glanced at Mac as she started searching for something after unlocking the cabinet. "Ma'am, her chest sounds are much improved, and I think her right lung is re-inflating very well so far. I'm going to move her back to a regular breathing tube, so she can rest more comfortably; I don't think she needs the mask any more." She pulled out a breathing tube package, unsealing it and installing it on the ox system for the bed; then she placed it in Mattie's nasal passages, and adjusting it on her face. "Better?" she asked Mattie, who nodded. "Now, lay back down, hon … I want to take a look at your incision and change the bandage. Just take a minute or two." Mattie complied, holding Mac's hand as she helped her lay down, then turning over on her side so that the nurse could examine and remove the bandage she'd received earlier after the chest tube had been inserted; check the incision, and then replace it with a new one. Mac kept herself as close to Mattie as possible, gently and slowly running her fingers through Mattie's hair as the nurse worked … watching as Mattie's eyes closed and her breathing evened out, her hand still in Mac's.
"I think she's asleep." Mac whispered in surprise, glancing at Ellen … who smiled. Ellen turned to the nurse and whispered so as not to wake Mattie, "Are you going to give her something to let her sleep the rest of the night?" The nurse looked from Ellen to Mattie, and shook her head after a moment.
"No, I don't think she needs it. We try not to proscribe more meds than the patient really needs here, and I think she will rest fine with her mom close by." The nurse's eyes met Mac's grateful look, and they smiled at each other. The nurse began making notations on her clipboard, and then quietly moved to the door. "Despite the nightmare, she's doing really great, ma'am. Buzz me if she wakes up again; otherwise, Dr. Masters will be seeing her at 7AM. I'll look in on her in a couple of hours." She smiled at them, and was gone.
Mac sighed, and closed her eyes as she rolled her shoulders. Ellen watched in sympathy, and then stood up.
"Let's try to move her over a little, Sarah, so you can lay down with her and get some sleep." Mac blinked, then shook her head. "What about the interview?"
Ellen shrugged, watching Mattie's sleeping face. "It'll keep till tomorrow. I think I have enough for the court. Dr. Masters gave a very compelling statement," she said, as they gently slid Mattie over to make room for Mac. "I'll catch up with you later tomorrow. Now, go to sleep--or else I'll have you arrested for self-abuse." Mac stretched out next to Mattie, removing her shoes and snuggling close to her … fixing Ellen with a mock glare and a smile.
Ellen watched her wrap her arm around Mattie, who sighed in her sleep … moving closer to her. Ellen reached over and adjusted Mattie's breathing tube a little, then nodded. "Night, Sarah. Try to get some rest."
Mac smiled at Ellen, Mattie's head nestled on her shoulder. "'Night, and thanks - you bully," she whispered. Ellen grinned and winked at her, and quietly left the room as Mac closed her eyes after gently kissing Mattie's forehead.
Outside the room, Ellen paused to look back at the pair, the guard asking her, "They ok?"
"Yeah. Mattie had a nightmare, is all. Nurse checked her out, looks like her lung is healing fine."
"Good." The guard answered. The sudden sound of the elevator bell in the quiet corridor drew their attention, as the doors opened … and they watched Officer Bosch step off and head towards them.
"How we doing here?" she asked.
"All quiet. Mattie woke up for a bit, had a bad dream … but they're both down for the night, I think." Ellen told her.
"Gotcha. Ma'am, we got Johnson back to Good Hope, and had a chat with the night staff. Told them in general what went down here earlier, and advised them that they'd probably be hearing from FCS and the court in the morning. Also took a couple of Polaroid pics of Johnson before we left. Left them with the guards downstairs, asked them to be on the lookout, just in case." She looked over at the hospital guard. "I'm here to take a shift, if that's OK with you." He nodded.
"Fine. I'll be back at 3AM to spell you for coffee and a break," he replied.
"Thanks. Appreciate it. My sergeant's cleared me till 7AM, when you guys have a shift change."
"No problem – we'll have it covered in the morning. Dr. Masters' instructions will stand till we hear otherwise. You folks need anything, give a holler."
"Good. See you then." The guard nodded, as Bosch took up her post outside Mattie's door, turning her radio down to a low level so as not to disturb the sleeping patients. The hospital guard looked at Ellen. "Ma'am, I'll escort you to your car, if you're ready to leave."
After a heavy sigh, and another look at Mattie and Mac, who were both sleeping, she nodded. "Thanks. You guys call me on my cell if you need to – anytime." Both the guard and Bosch nodded, as she handed a business card to Officer Bosch.
Ellen and the guard turned to walk towards the elevator.
GOOD HOPE TREATMENT CENTER, THE NEXT MORNINGEllen entered the center and, after getting directions to Tom Johnson's room, found him in a chair by the window near the open doorway. He seemed a lot calmer than the last time she'd seen him, and she hoped that it would remain that way.
"Mr. Johnson?" she called out, getting his attention. He shook himself, looking away from the window and turning in his chair towards her.
"Ms. Valera. I've been expecting you."
"Morning. Well, I'm not going to drag this out. I've just come from Family Court, sir." She saw his hands tighten on the armrests of the chair. Ellen pulled out a sheaf of papers, including two covered in official-blue court-order paper.
"And what have I lost this time?" His voice had an odd tilt to it, as if he'd already been through this conversation … and was only waiting to see it played out.
"Sir, after a meeting with the judge in your case, a restraining order has been issued. In it," and she pulled one of the blue-covered documents out to hand to him, "you're ordered not to come within 1,000 feet of your daughter, Matilda Grace Johnson, or her guardians, Commander Harmon Rabb or Colonel Sarah MacKenzie. You're also ordered not to approach Mattie's school or JAG HQ, and to direct any phone calls to either Rabb or MacKenzie. No direct contact with Mattie is allowed at this point, sir."
Tom's hateful eyes bored into Ellen's. "So … you're keeping me from my daughter."
"No,
sir. Your actions have done that. It's unfortunate, but the judge
considers that there's a threat here; to Mattie, and the people
presently holding custody of her."
"Does that include the Coates girl, or that black kid in the room last night?"
Ellen gave him a stony look, not liking the question at all. "Sir … it would be in your best interests not to approach anyone in Mattie's room last night – including Miss Coates and Andre Biggs. Since you're banned from both JAG HQ and Mattie's school, that would mean that you also can't approach either of them as well. It's likely that both will be called as witnesses at the next custody hearing; which the Court has moved up, by the way." She retrieved the second notice and handed it to him. "This is official notice that the next court date is to be held sometime within the next 21 days. Because of what happened at GW last night and with the involvement of the DC police, the judge wanted this held within a week; but she decided that Mattie needed time to heal, and you also need time to get outside counsel."
Tom returned to gaze out of the window, not looking Ellen's way at all. He spoke after a minute.
"I've contacted some attorneys this morning, Miss Valera, and I still intend to file charges against both Coates and Biggs when we're ready." This last was said in a cold, unfeeling voice. Ellen suddenly lost patience with this man, who seemed determined to build an unbreakable wall between himself and his daughter.
"Mr. Johnson … have you thought about how Mattie will react to your moves? She loves Jen Coates like a sister, and Andre Biggs is her best friend at school. Do you really think it's a good idea to go after two people who mean so much to her? Please think about what you're doing, and listen to your lawyer. I'm sure they'll say the same things I'm saying right now."
"Then I'll fire them and get new lawyers, Miss Valera--if they spout the same crap you're giving me now. My rights are being trampled here, and I'm going to make sure that doesn't happen again. Now, if you're done, I'm busy."
Ellen watched his reflection in the glass of the window, and then turned slowly towards the door. "You're making a mistake, Mr. Johnson. FCS is trying to be fair to all parties here, but your decisions and actions are, frankly, making it difficult for us to recommend that Mattie be returned to your custody—"
"YOU can't decide that!" Tom interrupted her. "I just need to convince the judge—NOT you! You've been on Rabb's side from the beginning, and I'm not going to put up with this obvious bias any more! Mattie is just confused, and has been duped by you all … but I WILL get her back!" His eyes flared at her, the anger in them constricting her heart. She looked in his eyes for another minute … then set her purse back on her shoulder, as she got ready to leave.
She stopped at the door, and decided to try one more time.
"You don't want to do this, sir. This isn't the right way to fight for your daughter, and you should also know that I WILL protect Mattie to the best of my ability – something you really shouldn't underestimate, Mr. Johnson. Have your lawyer call me as soon as you've retained counsel; before I allow ANY interviews of Mattie by your lawyer, I need to speak with him or her." Tom's eyes flared brighter in anger.
"My lawyer doesn't need your permission to see Mattie – the order doesn't extend to them!" Ellen shook her head, a sad expression on her face.
"Have your lawyer explain the law to you, Mr. Johnson; as Mattie's caseworker, I decide who sees Mattie, and under what circumstances. Neither you nor your lawyer can do anything about that. Have a good day."
She turned away and walked out of the room, leaving without giving him a chance to try to bully or otherwise intimidate her. He stared at the spot where she'd been standing a moment before … his anger boiled over as he suddenly punched his fist through one of the windowpanes, shattering the glass.
GW HOSPITAL - ROOM 411, 0710 ZULUMattie drifted back to wakefulness, slowly opening her eyes as her body began the process of reconnecting with her mind. Her thoughts were jumbled, scattered through a landscape of shadows and obstacles, and she felt the smoky echoes of the nightmare she'd had during the night. She'd dreamed that her father had come after her, hurting Harm, Jen, and Andre in the process … and she suddenly shivered as she remembered the terrors from those images. She then felt a warm body next to her, an arm draped over her middle. She was snuggled against the body, drawing comfort and safety from it. Her eyes slowly opened, following the curve of a pale neck to see Mac's sleeping face slightly above hers, and Mattie suddenly remembered that it had been Mac who'd pulled her away from those ugly images in her nightmare. It had been just a nightmare, right? If … if she asked, would they tell her that Harm, Jen, and even Andre were here in the hospital with her, hurt? Her throat constricted, and she tried to swallow … but the only sound that came was a choked gasp, jarring Mac awake. Mattie watched her eyes open, and then she saw her warm, loving brown eyes finding hers … and her racing heart slowed as Mac tightened her arm around her.
"Hi, sweetie – how are you feeling?" Mac smiled at her, reaching over to brush a few stray locks of hair away from Mattie's face.
"Mom …" Mattie whispered back, bringing an arm up to surround Mac's neck, as Mac leaned down to kiss Mattie's cheek. "Mom—where are they? Can I go see them--will they be all right?" Mac stilled; her eyes widened as her confused look increased Mattie's nervousness and confusion.
"Honey, what are you--?" Mac lifted her head a little, studying Mattie's eyes. She wondered if the nurse had decided to give Mattie something during the night, after all … maybe that's what had her so confused.
"Dad, Jen, and Andre, Mom – they were hurt, right? Are they…"
Oh, God, Mac suddenly realized--Mattie's nightmare. That's what she'd dreamed – that something worse had happened during the confrontation last night in her room. She sat up a little in the bed, and brought Mattie with her … cradling her in her arms like her own mother used to do when Mac had bad dreams.
"Honey, listen to me. Everybody's fine. Harm, Jen, and Andre … Grams and Gramps, even Ellen … they're all OK."
"But … but I saw—" she heard Mattie's small, confused voice from under her chin, and reached down to take Mattie's hand in hers. "Mattie – you had a really bad dream last night that frightened you, and that's what you're remembering right now. Everybody's fine, I promise you. They went home to rest, and they'll be back to see you this morning – well, except for Andre. He has school, and Jen has to go into work. I'm sure, though, that she'll be calling you as soon as she can, and Andre will be back to visit if you're feeling up to it later."
Mattie laid her head against Mac's chest as she listened to her speak. Harm and Mac never lied to her, and so that meant…
"They're OK? Nobody was hurt? It felt so real…" Mattie's voice trailed off as Mac saw the terrors flit through her eyes. 'Dear God,' Mac thought … the dream must have really shook her up, even though she'd slept through the rest of the night. She had to convince Mattie that what she thought she saw hadn't happened.
Mac shook her head. "No, no one's hurt, sweetie. They kept him from you, but nothing bad happened, and they took him away. Now, we just have to get you healthy again and back home; so we can wait on you hand and foot." Mattie felt Mac smile against her, and it made her smile a little, too. She sighed as she felt a kiss placed on her forehead. They remained that way for a few minutes … then Mattie spoke again.
"You … stayed with me..."
"Of course I did, honey … I wasn't going to let you be here alone."
"Thanks, Mom. I was so scared--" Mac's heart broke at the emotion she heard in Mattie's voice, and a flare of anger at Tom Johnson threatened to overwhelm her. She had to keep it together for Mattie's sake, though. She took a deep breath, trying to put as much comfort and certainty in her voice as she could.
"I know, sweetheart. Harm and I just want you to rest and get better, Mattie; no one's going to hurt you or anybody else—we promise you." Mattie had never heard so much determination in Mac's voice before. She forced the doubts and worries away, and let her eyes roam around the bed and room. Something was missing—and she'd just remembered what it was. She thought for another minute, then whispered near Mac's ear.
"Mom?"
"Hmm?"
"Where's Snoopy? Andre didn't take him back, did he?" Mac almost giggled at the accusing tone in Mattie's voice. "No, Mattie—look on your other side, under the sheet."
Mattie turned slightly—and smiled when she saw the head of her Snoopy stuffed animal peeking out from under the covers on her other side. She smiled, then whispered over her shoulder to Mac; "He'd better not have taken him away--I would've beaten him up, if he had!" Mac smirked; then remembered something.
"Honey, um … Andre asked us to remind you that, well …"
"What, Mom? What did he say?" Mattie heard … laughter??… in Mac's voice as she turned back to her.
"Well … he said that if you 'slandered' him in any way, I was to remind you that he still has the receipt for Snoopy." It was impossible for Mac to keep the laughter from bubbling to the surface of her voice; she wanted to support her daughter, after all.
There was quiet for a few moments as Mattie digested what Mac said. Then, she heard Mattie sigh, and whisper …
"Andre's a great friend, don't you think, Mom? I mean, I wouldn't really have beaten him up, or … you know …" Mac was chuckling harder now, and Mattie suddenly started laughing herself. There was a noise at the door … and the two girls looked up to see Dr. Masters smiling at them as he and a nurse entered.
"Well, this is what I like to see in the morning – people laughing and having fun! This isn't at my expense, is it?" He smiled as he walked over to the bed, watching Mac slowly disentangle herself from Mattie.
Mattie was gazing at the young doctor with a critical eye. "Not unless we were talking about that tie you're wearing." Dr. Master's eyes grew wide as the nurse snorted behind them and Mac reacted in her usual way to one of Mattie's thorny quips.
"Mattie!" She ran her hand across her face; this girl was going to drive her crazy. The doctor folded his arms across his chest, and gave Mattie an affronted look.
"I'll have you know, young lady, that my daughter gave me this tie for Father's Day." His eyes held a twinkle, and Mac suddenly had a feeling that this doctor loved jawing with his young patients. Well, he had his hands full right now.
Mattie matched his posture, crossing her arms as well, and raising her eyebrow before replying, "Doesn't she love you anymore?" Mac threw both hands on her face now, and groaned. Mattie was sitting there, grinning like a cat with a tasty mouse in its' mouth, while the nurse was openly laughing. Dr. Masters just shook his head at his young patient.
"I'll get you for that one, Matilda." The use of Mattie's full name got him a deadly glare from Mattie, and a muffled snort from Mac … who then cleared her face to innocence when Mattie suddenly turned to glare at her. She huffed, and growled back at the doctor. "Don't you have anyone else to torture this morning?
"Nope—you're on my schedule," he told her good-naturedly. "Now, zip the lip and sit up so I can examine you."
"Better be nice to me, Doc … my Dad will beat you up when he hears about how you're treating me, a poor, sick girl in this big, scary, impersonal hospital!" Dr. Masters just rolled his eyes at her as he pulled on his stethoscope and started listening to Mattie's breathing. Mattie still had her arms crossed, playing the scene for all it was worth. 'She has a career as an actress if she decides she doesn't want to become a squid like Harm,' Mac thought to herself, a smile appearing on her face. She watched as the doctor finished examining Mattie; getting vitals, checking her incision, and listening to her lungs. After a few minutes, he nodded. "Well, Ms. Smart-aleck here seems to be doing great. Her abnormal right lung sounds are almost gone, and the X-rays will likely show almost 100% inflation—"
"--Inflation's not good, Doc—what kind of economists you have working for you here, anyway?" came the voice from the bed. Mac and the doctor, still holding each other's gazes, just rolled their eyes and sighed at the same time…bringing chuckles from the nurse who was removing Mattie's breathing tube.
"…maybe we should just replace that tube with a muzzle…" Dr. Masters growled in a voice just loud enough for everyone to hear, causing Mattie to narrow her eyes at him in a threatening way.
"I HEARD that! Mom, are you just gonna let him talk to me like that?"
Mac couldn't resist. "Sorry, sweetie—I was thinking the same thing, actually. Now, please behave so we can see about springing you from this place—capisce?"
"Yes, ma'am." Mattie growled and tightened her arms around her chest…sticking out her lower lip in a massive pout.
Dr. Masters studiously ignored her as he turned back to Mac, a small smile on his lips. "We're going to take her down for X-rays now—I need to make sure her lungs are expanding to capacity. We'll also get another set of blood gas tests, and then it'll be time for breakfast. I got a call from Mr. Rabb a few minutes ago—he and his folks are on their way, and they'll be here within the hour. When everyone's arrived, we'll all go over the results of the X-rays and tests, and talk about what happens next. At this point, as long as there aren't any issues…I'm planning on sending Mattie home today."
The smiles on both Mattie and Mac's faces could easily match the sun itself in brilliance.
"Just so you know, the guard's going with Mattie to the X-ray lab. We're not taking any chances."
"Thank you, doctor." Mac was so relieved.
"Yeah, thanks." Mattie added.
He watched her for a moment, then told her, "We're going to miss you around here, Mattie."
She grinned at him, and he returned it.
"Okay. Ma'am, you can go with Mattie to the lab, or stay here and wait for her to come back—your choice."
"I'll stay with her." Mattie reached up and took Mac's hand, squeezing it. The doctor nodded, and stood back as an orderly entered with a wheelchair, and began to get Mattie ready for her trip to the X-ray lab.
MATTIE'S HIGH SCHOOLEllen walked through the heavy front doors of the high school, stopping at the security desk and showing her ID to the guard on duty. He directed her to the office where she could meet with Miss Barrows and Andre, who were already waiting for her … after she'd called ahead to let Miss Barrows know she was on her way.
She'd just reached the door to the main office, when she felt a hand on her elbow.
"Good morning, Ms. Valera." Miss Barrows said, smiling at her.
"Morning. How are you doing today?"
"Good thanks. Andre's waiting for us in my office. And you--did you get any rest last night after the hospital trip?" Ellen fell in beside Miss Barrows as they walked to her office, a few doors away.
"Some. I had to make a 9:30 court appearance on this case, and then go out to Good Hope where Mr. Johnson is staying."
Miss Barrows sighed. "I have to tell you, Ms. Valera … I just don't understand Mr. Johnson at all. Even with the alcoholism, he seems determined to erase all chance he has of having any sort of relationship with Mattie. I believe she'd eventually give him a chance, if he weren't so paranoid about Mr. Rabb and Miss MacKenzie." Ellen nodded.
"He's a man with a lot of demons right now, but to be honest, Miss Barrows … my chief concern is Mattie's well-being. My job is to make sure that she's safe and in a loving place where she can finish growing up to be the person she'll be. The Court will make the final custody decision eventually, but I deal with the day-to-day issues."
"Like last night." Miss Barrows offered.
"…like last night." Ellen agreed.
"Have you heard anything about Mattie this morning?" Miss Barrows asked.
"No … that's my next thing after talking with you and Andre. It shouldn't take long to get your statements; I just need to know what happened last night. Then, I can check in with Mattie, Mr. Rabb, and Sarah."
Miss Barrows heard something in the other woman's voice as she said that last name. "You think a lot of Miss MacKenzie, don't you?"
"I do," Ellen admitted. "She's a strong, professional woman with a willingness and enthusiasm to take a teenaged girl into her life; and love her as her own. I don't see much of that at FCS--believe me. Mattie's surrounded by some great role models, and I hate to think what would have happened to Mattie, if getting sick like this had happened without all these people in her life right now."
Miss Barrows nodded slowly. "I hadn't thought of that before."
"Sorry," Ellen told her, giving her a grin. "Cynicism is a part of my job, unfortunately."
"I hear you. Well, here's my office. Do you want to speak with Andre alone, or both of us together?"
"I prefer doing this with both of you. I don't want anyone to later disallow what Andre has to tell me if I interview him alone, without someone else present. He is a minor, and the courts are insistent that children aren't put in these situations alone unless absolutely necessary. I totally agree with that policy."
The two women came to the door of Miss Barrows' office4and entered, to talk about the events of last night in Mattie's room at the hospital with Andre.
GOOD HOPE TREATMENT CENTERAfter getting his bloody hand stitched and bandaged by the nurse on duty at the center, Tom went to the common room to find a friend of his, someone who he'd bonded with in group meetings. Andrei Dax was a Russian émigré who'd come to America several years ago, had settled in the Annapolis area as a steelworker at a Navy shipyard, had married an American woman who'd bore him a son--and who'd then run off with another man … and who was now trying to climb out of a 5-year swim in a bottle.
He'd contacted a few attorneys from the list offered by the center, and had very depressing talks with all of them. Basically, they all verified what Ellen Valera had told him; legally, he was in trouble, both with the incident in Mattie's room last night and with the custody case. When he'd mentioned that one of the people he wanted to go after was Navy, they'd quickly backed away. 'Everybody kisses the Navy's ass in this town!' he fumed to himself. The only slight chance he had was filing charges against Andre Biggs; but according to the one shyster willing to even consider it, having a minor dragged into court--especially a minor who was also Mattie's best friend (when did THAT happen, and why? he wondered)--wouldn't look good at all.
The last one he'd spoken to had offered to try to negotiate something with FCS to get him in to see Mattie on a supervised visit, and he'd left it with him to pursue with Valera. Feeling used up and badly treated by the world in general, and lawyers in particular, he decided to go find a friend for a chat.
The hulking Russian was in the common room, playing Solitaire while watching CNN on the tube. Tom knew that Andrei would be leaving the center himself soon; they'd talked about work once Tom was released, had gotten custody of Mattie back, and was running Grace Aviation again. The two had spent a lot of time making plans, comparing stories of people who'd "wronged" them in their lives … and what the future held. For a big man, Andrei was amazingly light on his feet, and had a unique ability to blend into almost any background—a skill Tom needed now.
"Andrei, you old commie!" Tom clapped him on his acres-wide back as he took a seat next to him at the table.
"Tomas! Sit with me! Rumor has it that you came back with a couple of 'badges' last night—is this true, my friend?"
"Afraid so, Andrei. I ran into some trouble when I went to see Mattie at the hospital, and ended up having Rabb and his bunch call the cops on me when I tried to see my daughter."
"Mmphf. Such people would not be treated well in my country. No one should stand between a man and his children, tovarich. What happened, and what are you going to do about it?"
"Long story. A broad from FCS served me with a restraining order this morning, and I have to stay away from Mattie for now--not even phone calls! I'm being dragged in front of a judge within the next three weeks."
The Russian clucked sympathetically. "A shame, my friend. Is there anything I can do to help?"
"As a matter of fact, there might be. My lawyer tells me that I might be able to file charges against this kid that was with Mattie last night in her room, and who actually jumped me when I tried to see her. Problem is, I don't know anything about him except his name and the fact that he goes to my daughter's school. I know you're a man who can find out things, Andrei, and since you're leaving soon…I was hoping …"
Andrei carefully studied Tom's face. "You wish for me to find out some, how you Americans say … 'dirt' on this child for your case? Maybe convince him to keep his distance from your little girl?"
Tom returned his look. "The restraining order includes him, Andrei. I can't come within 1,000 feet of this kid. But you could find out about him for me … it would help a lot." Andrei nodded, noticing that Tom hadn't dismissed the idea of 'convincing' the kid.
"Da. I will do this for you. We will be partners out there, yes?"
"Partners, Andrei. I knew you would be the right man for this."
"I leave in a few days, my friend. Let us talk further about this."
"Yes … let's talk."
END OF CHAPTER 20