History Repeated Part 26: The Longest Hour
Nick sat in silence at the hospital, his mind swirling. He had pieced together what was going on, and came to conclusions about the rest.
He was angry. Angry that no one had thought to tell him he was expecting another child, angry that he would have to grieve before he had even excepted the situation. But did he even have the right to bear the anger he felt?
Nick looked to his brother who was seated across from him. Alex was the image of fury. The fury was on his face, it was in his eyes - he looked about ready to explode.
"Why the hell didn't you tell me, Alex?" Nick's words shot out more hostile than he intended. But the man needed answers.
Alex glared at his brother, wanting to leap at him, "Because I was begged not to."
"Why?" Nick pressed.
Alex was silent, then said what was really on his mind, "Because you're a waste of space, Nick. And I guess Tess knew that before I did."
Nick shook his head ignoring his brothers painful words, "I know how Tess feels about me"
"Yeah, and unfortunately she can't switch her feelings off like a tap. She knows you're bad for her. She's been mucked around by you so much, and for so long that she can't tell which way's up anymore! Do you have any idea of the damage you've done to that girl over the years? I swear to god Nick, if anything happens to this kid and Tess ends up hurt again I'll-"
"Yeah, Alex, I get the picture," Nick grunted, not wanting to hear anymore.
The two men resumed their silences, staring down the other occasionally.
Alex was sick to death of the waiting. It had been one of the longest hours of his life. He just wanted to see Tess, see that she was alright... make sure the baby was alright. The waiting was killing him.
As if on cue, a nurse popped into the waiting room, "Mr Ryan."
Both Ryan men looked up expectantly.
"Alex," The nurse clarified, "We've managed to settle Tess down now. The radiologist is about ready to perform the ultrasound... she wants you to be present."
Alex stood up and followed the nurse away, leaving a hurt Nick on his own in the now empty room.