No Time to Waste
by TheRealXenocide
`
Disclaimer: I do not own the characters, settings, or anything else you recognize from the show Lizzie McGuire. The plot, at it's base, has been around since Homer, and this variant since Henry Ford. However, this is the first I've seen it applied to Lizzie.
`
A/N: Personal Notes:
Amy : Gees, girl, make me blush! Really though, thank you. You always make me smile.
Nameless "I want more" reviewer: Thanks for the enthusiasm, I think.
`
Chapter 11
Nightmares
`
Lizzie was calm enough that night to get some much needed rest. Or she was have, if she hadn't been knocked out of sleep by noises from Miranda's bed. At first, she thought it was one of 'those' dreams, and she had what was to her the rather disturbing idea that Matt was the star. But she then realized that those were NOT sounds of pleasure coming from her friend's bed. Worried, she worked up enough courage to test her good leg. Then slowly, painfully, she hop-slid to her friend. She could clearly tell now that Miranda was having a nightmare of some kind, and it didn't take a genius to figure out what it was about. Bracing herself against the bed and night stand, she tried to wake Miranda.
Gently at first, she shook Miranda by the shoulders and said "Miranda, wake-up, it's just a dream."
After about 20 seconds with no change, she acted with more urgency. Finally, Miranda started to stir. At her, she was clearly still in her dream, but her mouth was now saying what she was saying in her dream, and it chilled Lizzie. "Oh god no not him why him please no not Matt not Matt MATT NO!"
At the last no, her eyes shot open. Lizzie took the opportunity to try to get her friend's attention. Grabbing her by the cheeks, she turned Miranda's head to face her. "Miranda! It's Lizzie! We're okay. Matt's okay. It was just a bad dream."
"Just a . . ." Miranda started, then she grabbed and hugged Lizzie. "Oh, Lizzie! It was horrible! I've been having dreams that you three were all dead since I come around, but tonight, I saw Matt dead. Not from the crash, but . . ." She stopped and looked at Lizzie, wondering if she should give voice to her fears. "Lizzie, this morning, on the way to see Ethan, Matt said something. I told him it scared me, but not how much." Lizzie was confused, but let Miranda continue. "When my dad warned him to take care of me, Matt said . . . he said that he would die of kill to protect me. When I asked him about it a little later, he said the same thing. And it wasn't the usually macho crap guys say, either. I could tell he MEANT it. My god, Lizzie, the idea SCARES me. I didn't realize how bad until tonight."
Lizzie had paled, but gathered herself. "So, you saw him die to protect you?"
"After killing I don't know how many. The only thing that made me feel worse than watching him kill was watching him die."
"But, Miranda, it HASN'T HAPPENED. I know what he said scares you, it scares me to. But think, don't you believe your parents would due the same if forced?"
"Well . . ."
"Of course they would! Just as I'm sure mine would. They don't have to say it for us to know it. If I had to guess, I think Matt is just trying to not hide anything from you, no matter how disturbing."
"Maybe. But then, why tell my dad?"
"To cut off a lecture?"
Miranda smiled slightly at that. "He could have found a better way."
"Did it work?"
"I guess so."
"There, see. It's okay. We both know Matt wouldn't do anything that extreme if it can be helped."
"I guess you're right. He may be changing, but he's still Matt."
"That's right. Now, think you can get some sleep?"
"I think so."
"Okay. Good night." Lizzie started toward her bed.
"Stop. My legs both work. I'll help."
"Thanks."
After getting Lizzie in bed, Miranda went back to hers. When Miranda was settled, Lizzie couldn't resist a joke. "If it helps, maybe you should dream of Matt in another way."
"Lizzie!"
~~~~~~~~
Matt was also having trouble sleeping, trapped in self-loathing over Lizzie. 'I know it was going to happen anyway, Ethan made that clear. But to be part of it. I hope we can make this work. I hope if she ever finds out, she can somehow forgive me.'
~~~~~~~~
At the breakfast table, both McGuire parents noticed their son's unusually groggy condition. "Having trouble sleeping, Matt?" Sam asked.
Trying, and failing, to stifle a yawn, Matt replied, "A little. Just worried about Lizzie. She took the break up harder then we thought."
Jo caught the way he said that. "That sounds like you were expecting it?" Matt's face fell. That was all she needed. "Alright, Matt, talk. How did you know he was going to break up with her? And no secrets."
Left no room to maneuver, Matt sighed. "Mr. Gordon said I could trust you." He then began to explain everything about the matchmaking plan, including how Ethan got involved. "We decided that, since he was going to break up with Lizzie anyway, we'd try to use it to our advantage in trying to get her to go to Gordo. We all agreed that Lizzie needed a more than normal jolt to shake her years of denial about him. My overplaying the protective brother was Ethan's idea, but Miranda agreed, and I thought it made since. But being there while it happened . . . it hurt. And not just me, I think my punch caught Ethan better than either of us wanted."
Matt finally dared to look at his mother's face, something he had avoided during his story. He saw shock, frustration, worry, and . . . pity?
Jo finally spoke. "I'm tempted to punish you for being part of this, but you seem to be doing that well enough on your own."
Sam came into the conversation here. "I, and I'm sure your mother, see the logic in using what was going to happen anyway. But you should have warned us, or at least your mother."
"Do you have any idea how worried I was when you brought Lizzie back like she was? If you had shown the sense to warn me, I could have been ready for her." Something then hit her. "Was this what you were whispering to Miranda and her mother about?"
Matt nodded. "Miranda told her mother, but I didn't know that until Lizzie and I came back. I wish I had said something. Ethan was let in because the break up was key but I guess I wanted this to be something for just Miranda and me. Our first big project as a couple."
That brought out a chuckle from Sam. "I've heard of some unusual dating ideas, but this jumps to the head of the class."
Jo had to smile. "I guess it's one way to show a romantic side."
Matt was smiling now. "Well, since you both know now, how far in on this do you want to be?" Matt's face showed both invitation and warding.
Jo and Sam looked at each other. "You're there more then I am," Sam said to Jo, "it should be your call."
Jo thought for a moment. "I'll encourage Lizzie toward Gordo, but I think this should stay you and Miranda's show. BUT you warn me next time you're up to something, clear?"
"I will. And I'll tell Miranda to, as well."
"Speaking of Miranda, didn't she say she might be released today?"
Matt's smile broadened. "If the doctor likes the result of an exam today, she gets to go home."
~~~~~~~~
In the room of David Gordon, a.k.a. Gordo, a nurse was getting the still unconscious young man ready for surgery. His parents had decided to take turns wanting on him, and his mother was first. She waited outside the room.
When he was ready, they wheeled him to the OR, his mother following until reaching the OR waiting area.
It was 9:00 a.m.
~~~~~~~~
It was about 10:00 when Sam McGuire dropped off his wife and son at the hospital. While Jo headed straight to Lizzie, Matt decided to check on Ethan. It took longer then he expected, because after he had left yesterday, Ethan had been cleared to be moved. When he arrived, he was surprised to see Kate already there. "May I come in?"
"Sure," said Ethan, "are you alone?"
"Yeah. Are we okay, Kate?"
Kate gave a half smile. "Ethan told me it was all an act." Then she looked angry. "But did you have to hit him so hard! You bruised him!"
Both boys laughed. "It had to be convincing, Kate." Matt said. "To tell the truth, it felt like I hit far harder than I meant. You sure your okay?"
"I'm fine. As Kate said, just a bruise."
"Do I take this to mean things are okay with you two?"
"What does it matter . . ." Kate started.
Ethan cut in. "He's not the enemy, Kate. If anything, hearing him talk about he and Miranda helped give me the push to tell you everything."
Kate actually blushed. "Sorry. You're right, Ethan. I need to do a lot of thinking. Forgive me, Matt?"
Matt was somewhat surprised. "Sure." Something occurred to Matt. "Wait, you know about Miranda and me?" Kate nodded. Matt's eyes narrowed, his voice was ice. "Are you going to harass her about dating someone younger?"
Both of the others blanched. Kate replied. "I guess I've earned that. Before yesterday, I would have. But after everything Ethan and I talked about . . . like I said, I have a lot to think about."
Matt's face and voice thawed. "Sounds promising. I should be getting to the girls' room. See you later."
~~~~~~~~
As Matt reached the girls room, he heard Lizzie's voice. "I heard Gordo's operation was today. Does anybody know when he was suppose to go in?"
"I think Mrs. Gordon said nine this morning." Jo replied.
"That means it already started." Lizzie looked worried. "Steel plates, rods, it sounds like they're talking about a robot, not Gordo."
"Lizzie, I'm going to tell you something Matt told me." Miranda said. "Don't buy trouble. These doctors know what they're doing. I'm sure he'll be fine."
"Aren't you worried?"
"Of course I am. But I also know how strong Gordo is, and how good these doctors are. If they weren't, that lung of your's might have finished you. But you're here. He'll be fine."
"As much as I hate to break up such a cheerful conversation," Matt interrupted, "I was wondering when Miranda's doctor was going to be here. No offense, Lizzie, but I'll feel better once she's out of here."
"Going to escort her home, little brother?"
To Lizzie's surprise, Matt didn't blush. "That depends on when she leaves. Mom, can I see you outside for a moment?"
Jo was a little surprised, then thought she knew his reason. "Sure." Then they stepped out of the room.
Lizzie was clearly puzzled. "What was that about?" Nobody had an answer.
~~
"Mom, are you going to be with Lizzie all day?"
"As far as I know. Why?"
"Because I'm worried about how she might react if something goes wrong with Gordo. I don't think she should be alone, and if Miranda leaves before we know anything, she won't even have a roomie best friend for comfort. Should we take turns with her?"
Jo looked at her son carefully. "Matt, you don't need to overcompensate for earlier. If you want to help Miranda get home, we all understand."
"It's not about that. Well, okay, maybe a little. But, mom, you saw how she was after the break up with Ethan. And that wasn't where her heart really is. If something happens to Gordo . . . Mom, I'm scared for her."
"So I can see. I'm worried myself, so of course I'll stay with her." She smiled at her son. "Have I told you yet how proud I am of you?"
"Yeah, but don't let that stop you."
~~~~~~~~
As of noon, Gordo's operation was going well. They had to watch his heart rate closer than expected, as it would periodically fall. But so far, the falls weren't severe, and his heart rate quickly returned.
~~~~~~~~
Dr. Gardner arrived to examine Miranda at 12:30, accompanied by a nurse and a lab tech. "Are you ready to leave us, Miranda?"
"Yes." Miranda replied. Then she saw the vials and needles the lab tech was carrying. "Needles?"
"I need some blood tests before I can authorize your release. I thought I'd take those first, then while they go to the lab, we can finish the exam. The tests won't be done when we are, but it will make the wait seem shorter."
"I hate needles."
"Here." Before anybody noticed he had moved, Matt was at her side. "Hold my hand."
The other three were all going through 'oh how sweet' reactions, but the other two didn't notice. Miranda gave an embarrassed smile. "If this keeps up, I'm going to completely loss my tough-girl image."
"Not with me."
"I hate to interrupt the moment," Dr. Gardner broke in, "but if you would like to go home today, we should get started."
"Sorry." Both said in unison.
"As for you, young man, I don't mind you being here for the blood draw. But after that, I have to close the curtains, and only her mother will be with her on this side of them. Clear?"
"Yes, ma'am."
~~~~~~~~
Later in the OR, the operation was almost finished. The last of the steel was in place. All that was left was to close. Then.
"Doctor! His heart rate is crashing again."
"Stay on it."
"Still falling."
"Damn. Come on, kid, we're almost done."
"Still falling."
"Damn! Get the defibrillator by me."
Beeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee
~~~~~~~~
Mr. Gordon was in the waiting area when the surgeon left the OR. "Gordon?"
"I'm David Gordon's father." He can't help but notice the surgeon's haggard appearance.
"Let's sit down, please." Mr. Gordon could see how weary the man was, and took a seat nest to him. "Sir, I just left your son. He's . . ."
~~~~~~~~
A/N: Now that would be mean. Good thing I'm not mean by nature.
~~~~~~~~
". . . alive, but barely. He went into full cardiac arrest at the end. We pulled him back, and he was gone for only 20 seconds, so there shouldn't be any lasting problems. However, I want him in CICU for at least 48 hours while we give him a full series of tests."
Mr. Gordon had paled, but managed to reply. "Of course. Do whatever you need."
~~~~~~~~
A/N: He lives, but he's not out of the woods yet. How will Lizzie react to the news? And will the mothers EVER get Matt and Miranda alone? Stay tuned.
by TheRealXenocide
`
Disclaimer: I do not own the characters, settings, or anything else you recognize from the show Lizzie McGuire. The plot, at it's base, has been around since Homer, and this variant since Henry Ford. However, this is the first I've seen it applied to Lizzie.
`
A/N: Personal Notes:
Amy : Gees, girl, make me blush! Really though, thank you. You always make me smile.
Nameless "I want more" reviewer: Thanks for the enthusiasm, I think.
`
Chapter 11
Nightmares
`
Lizzie was calm enough that night to get some much needed rest. Or she was have, if she hadn't been knocked out of sleep by noises from Miranda's bed. At first, she thought it was one of 'those' dreams, and she had what was to her the rather disturbing idea that Matt was the star. But she then realized that those were NOT sounds of pleasure coming from her friend's bed. Worried, she worked up enough courage to test her good leg. Then slowly, painfully, she hop-slid to her friend. She could clearly tell now that Miranda was having a nightmare of some kind, and it didn't take a genius to figure out what it was about. Bracing herself against the bed and night stand, she tried to wake Miranda.
Gently at first, she shook Miranda by the shoulders and said "Miranda, wake-up, it's just a dream."
After about 20 seconds with no change, she acted with more urgency. Finally, Miranda started to stir. At her, she was clearly still in her dream, but her mouth was now saying what she was saying in her dream, and it chilled Lizzie. "Oh god no not him why him please no not Matt not Matt MATT NO!"
At the last no, her eyes shot open. Lizzie took the opportunity to try to get her friend's attention. Grabbing her by the cheeks, she turned Miranda's head to face her. "Miranda! It's Lizzie! We're okay. Matt's okay. It was just a bad dream."
"Just a . . ." Miranda started, then she grabbed and hugged Lizzie. "Oh, Lizzie! It was horrible! I've been having dreams that you three were all dead since I come around, but tonight, I saw Matt dead. Not from the crash, but . . ." She stopped and looked at Lizzie, wondering if she should give voice to her fears. "Lizzie, this morning, on the way to see Ethan, Matt said something. I told him it scared me, but not how much." Lizzie was confused, but let Miranda continue. "When my dad warned him to take care of me, Matt said . . . he said that he would die of kill to protect me. When I asked him about it a little later, he said the same thing. And it wasn't the usually macho crap guys say, either. I could tell he MEANT it. My god, Lizzie, the idea SCARES me. I didn't realize how bad until tonight."
Lizzie had paled, but gathered herself. "So, you saw him die to protect you?"
"After killing I don't know how many. The only thing that made me feel worse than watching him kill was watching him die."
"But, Miranda, it HASN'T HAPPENED. I know what he said scares you, it scares me to. But think, don't you believe your parents would due the same if forced?"
"Well . . ."
"Of course they would! Just as I'm sure mine would. They don't have to say it for us to know it. If I had to guess, I think Matt is just trying to not hide anything from you, no matter how disturbing."
"Maybe. But then, why tell my dad?"
"To cut off a lecture?"
Miranda smiled slightly at that. "He could have found a better way."
"Did it work?"
"I guess so."
"There, see. It's okay. We both know Matt wouldn't do anything that extreme if it can be helped."
"I guess you're right. He may be changing, but he's still Matt."
"That's right. Now, think you can get some sleep?"
"I think so."
"Okay. Good night." Lizzie started toward her bed.
"Stop. My legs both work. I'll help."
"Thanks."
After getting Lizzie in bed, Miranda went back to hers. When Miranda was settled, Lizzie couldn't resist a joke. "If it helps, maybe you should dream of Matt in another way."
"Lizzie!"
~~~~~~~~
Matt was also having trouble sleeping, trapped in self-loathing over Lizzie. 'I know it was going to happen anyway, Ethan made that clear. But to be part of it. I hope we can make this work. I hope if she ever finds out, she can somehow forgive me.'
~~~~~~~~
At the breakfast table, both McGuire parents noticed their son's unusually groggy condition. "Having trouble sleeping, Matt?" Sam asked.
Trying, and failing, to stifle a yawn, Matt replied, "A little. Just worried about Lizzie. She took the break up harder then we thought."
Jo caught the way he said that. "That sounds like you were expecting it?" Matt's face fell. That was all she needed. "Alright, Matt, talk. How did you know he was going to break up with her? And no secrets."
Left no room to maneuver, Matt sighed. "Mr. Gordon said I could trust you." He then began to explain everything about the matchmaking plan, including how Ethan got involved. "We decided that, since he was going to break up with Lizzie anyway, we'd try to use it to our advantage in trying to get her to go to Gordo. We all agreed that Lizzie needed a more than normal jolt to shake her years of denial about him. My overplaying the protective brother was Ethan's idea, but Miranda agreed, and I thought it made since. But being there while it happened . . . it hurt. And not just me, I think my punch caught Ethan better than either of us wanted."
Matt finally dared to look at his mother's face, something he had avoided during his story. He saw shock, frustration, worry, and . . . pity?
Jo finally spoke. "I'm tempted to punish you for being part of this, but you seem to be doing that well enough on your own."
Sam came into the conversation here. "I, and I'm sure your mother, see the logic in using what was going to happen anyway. But you should have warned us, or at least your mother."
"Do you have any idea how worried I was when you brought Lizzie back like she was? If you had shown the sense to warn me, I could have been ready for her." Something then hit her. "Was this what you were whispering to Miranda and her mother about?"
Matt nodded. "Miranda told her mother, but I didn't know that until Lizzie and I came back. I wish I had said something. Ethan was let in because the break up was key but I guess I wanted this to be something for just Miranda and me. Our first big project as a couple."
That brought out a chuckle from Sam. "I've heard of some unusual dating ideas, but this jumps to the head of the class."
Jo had to smile. "I guess it's one way to show a romantic side."
Matt was smiling now. "Well, since you both know now, how far in on this do you want to be?" Matt's face showed both invitation and warding.
Jo and Sam looked at each other. "You're there more then I am," Sam said to Jo, "it should be your call."
Jo thought for a moment. "I'll encourage Lizzie toward Gordo, but I think this should stay you and Miranda's show. BUT you warn me next time you're up to something, clear?"
"I will. And I'll tell Miranda to, as well."
"Speaking of Miranda, didn't she say she might be released today?"
Matt's smile broadened. "If the doctor likes the result of an exam today, she gets to go home."
~~~~~~~~
In the room of David Gordon, a.k.a. Gordo, a nurse was getting the still unconscious young man ready for surgery. His parents had decided to take turns wanting on him, and his mother was first. She waited outside the room.
When he was ready, they wheeled him to the OR, his mother following until reaching the OR waiting area.
It was 9:00 a.m.
~~~~~~~~
It was about 10:00 when Sam McGuire dropped off his wife and son at the hospital. While Jo headed straight to Lizzie, Matt decided to check on Ethan. It took longer then he expected, because after he had left yesterday, Ethan had been cleared to be moved. When he arrived, he was surprised to see Kate already there. "May I come in?"
"Sure," said Ethan, "are you alone?"
"Yeah. Are we okay, Kate?"
Kate gave a half smile. "Ethan told me it was all an act." Then she looked angry. "But did you have to hit him so hard! You bruised him!"
Both boys laughed. "It had to be convincing, Kate." Matt said. "To tell the truth, it felt like I hit far harder than I meant. You sure your okay?"
"I'm fine. As Kate said, just a bruise."
"Do I take this to mean things are okay with you two?"
"What does it matter . . ." Kate started.
Ethan cut in. "He's not the enemy, Kate. If anything, hearing him talk about he and Miranda helped give me the push to tell you everything."
Kate actually blushed. "Sorry. You're right, Ethan. I need to do a lot of thinking. Forgive me, Matt?"
Matt was somewhat surprised. "Sure." Something occurred to Matt. "Wait, you know about Miranda and me?" Kate nodded. Matt's eyes narrowed, his voice was ice. "Are you going to harass her about dating someone younger?"
Both of the others blanched. Kate replied. "I guess I've earned that. Before yesterday, I would have. But after everything Ethan and I talked about . . . like I said, I have a lot to think about."
Matt's face and voice thawed. "Sounds promising. I should be getting to the girls' room. See you later."
~~~~~~~~
As Matt reached the girls room, he heard Lizzie's voice. "I heard Gordo's operation was today. Does anybody know when he was suppose to go in?"
"I think Mrs. Gordon said nine this morning." Jo replied.
"That means it already started." Lizzie looked worried. "Steel plates, rods, it sounds like they're talking about a robot, not Gordo."
"Lizzie, I'm going to tell you something Matt told me." Miranda said. "Don't buy trouble. These doctors know what they're doing. I'm sure he'll be fine."
"Aren't you worried?"
"Of course I am. But I also know how strong Gordo is, and how good these doctors are. If they weren't, that lung of your's might have finished you. But you're here. He'll be fine."
"As much as I hate to break up such a cheerful conversation," Matt interrupted, "I was wondering when Miranda's doctor was going to be here. No offense, Lizzie, but I'll feel better once she's out of here."
"Going to escort her home, little brother?"
To Lizzie's surprise, Matt didn't blush. "That depends on when she leaves. Mom, can I see you outside for a moment?"
Jo was a little surprised, then thought she knew his reason. "Sure." Then they stepped out of the room.
Lizzie was clearly puzzled. "What was that about?" Nobody had an answer.
~~
"Mom, are you going to be with Lizzie all day?"
"As far as I know. Why?"
"Because I'm worried about how she might react if something goes wrong with Gordo. I don't think she should be alone, and if Miranda leaves before we know anything, she won't even have a roomie best friend for comfort. Should we take turns with her?"
Jo looked at her son carefully. "Matt, you don't need to overcompensate for earlier. If you want to help Miranda get home, we all understand."
"It's not about that. Well, okay, maybe a little. But, mom, you saw how she was after the break up with Ethan. And that wasn't where her heart really is. If something happens to Gordo . . . Mom, I'm scared for her."
"So I can see. I'm worried myself, so of course I'll stay with her." She smiled at her son. "Have I told you yet how proud I am of you?"
"Yeah, but don't let that stop you."
~~~~~~~~
As of noon, Gordo's operation was going well. They had to watch his heart rate closer than expected, as it would periodically fall. But so far, the falls weren't severe, and his heart rate quickly returned.
~~~~~~~~
Dr. Gardner arrived to examine Miranda at 12:30, accompanied by a nurse and a lab tech. "Are you ready to leave us, Miranda?"
"Yes." Miranda replied. Then she saw the vials and needles the lab tech was carrying. "Needles?"
"I need some blood tests before I can authorize your release. I thought I'd take those first, then while they go to the lab, we can finish the exam. The tests won't be done when we are, but it will make the wait seem shorter."
"I hate needles."
"Here." Before anybody noticed he had moved, Matt was at her side. "Hold my hand."
The other three were all going through 'oh how sweet' reactions, but the other two didn't notice. Miranda gave an embarrassed smile. "If this keeps up, I'm going to completely loss my tough-girl image."
"Not with me."
"I hate to interrupt the moment," Dr. Gardner broke in, "but if you would like to go home today, we should get started."
"Sorry." Both said in unison.
"As for you, young man, I don't mind you being here for the blood draw. But after that, I have to close the curtains, and only her mother will be with her on this side of them. Clear?"
"Yes, ma'am."
~~~~~~~~
Later in the OR, the operation was almost finished. The last of the steel was in place. All that was left was to close. Then.
"Doctor! His heart rate is crashing again."
"Stay on it."
"Still falling."
"Damn. Come on, kid, we're almost done."
"Still falling."
"Damn! Get the defibrillator by me."
Beeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee
~~~~~~~~
Mr. Gordon was in the waiting area when the surgeon left the OR. "Gordon?"
"I'm David Gordon's father." He can't help but notice the surgeon's haggard appearance.
"Let's sit down, please." Mr. Gordon could see how weary the man was, and took a seat nest to him. "Sir, I just left your son. He's . . ."
~~~~~~~~
A/N: Now that would be mean. Good thing I'm not mean by nature.
~~~~~~~~
". . . alive, but barely. He went into full cardiac arrest at the end. We pulled him back, and he was gone for only 20 seconds, so there shouldn't be any lasting problems. However, I want him in CICU for at least 48 hours while we give him a full series of tests."
Mr. Gordon had paled, but managed to reply. "Of course. Do whatever you need."
~~~~~~~~
A/N: He lives, but he's not out of the woods yet. How will Lizzie react to the news? And will the mothers EVER get Matt and Miranda alone? Stay tuned.