Thank you as always for the reviews. As for things being resolved too quickly, this is really more of a friendship story and besides, Don often comes to CalSci to ask a favor from Charlie. Now for Chapter 3!

Larry came back into the waiting room, followed closely by the doctor. Don looked up but Charlie hid his face in Don's shoulder.

"So what's the verdict?" Don asked. The doctor smiled.

"Nothing broken. He's just going to have some nasty bruising. He might be a little sore for a few days."

Larry smiled and put his hand on Charlie's shoulder.

"See Charles? I'm all right, really." There was no response.

"Come on Charlie," said Don.

"Charles, look at me when I'm talking to you."

Charlie looked up. His eyes were filled with guilt and pain.

"This isn't your fault. You're not responsible. I don't blame you for this, honest."

Charlie looked away. Larry gave his shoulder one final squeeze before letting go.

"Do you want us to give you a lift back to the university so you can pick up your car?" Don asked.

"No, that's all right Laurel's on her way over," answered Larry. Noticing Don's questioning look he added, "Laurel Wilson. She's my girlfriend."

Don smiled. "We'll stay with you until she shows up."

They didn't have to wait long. About fifteen minutes later a woman ran in. She had raven black hair and bright green eyes. She went over to Larry and kissed him gently.

"Don't scare me like that! I was worried sick!"

Larry blushed. "Sorry." Laurel turned to Charlie.

"You're Charles Eppes, aren't you? I've seen you around campus but I don't believe we were ever formally introduced."

Charlie nodded but didn't say anything. Don shook hands with Laurel. "I'm Charlie's brother Don."

"Nice to meet you," Laurel said. "Well, I guess we had better be going. It's still raining but it's not as bad as before."

Larry turned to Charlie. "I'll try to come by tomorrow to see how you're doing, okay?"

Charlie nodded, a gesture so faint Larry almost missed it. The four of them made their way into the night.

STAY TUNED...