Turn Turn Turn

by tinywriter365

No, this is not going to be a song fic, although the premise of that song seemed fitting for this third part of my Changes series. If you have not done so, you'll want to read The First Step to Major Changes and Changes Amid Frustration to understand this story. This story picks up two weeks after the end of Changes Amid Frustration. As always, I do not own anything belonging to E

4. Chapter 4

Chapter 4-Leaning on Others Helps Everyone

Summary Mike reaches out to good friends to help his paramedics after a horrific call

Warning Mentions death of a child

KMG 365

Just over a month into his new role at station 10, Mike and his crew were back on duty. The first week of November meant the holidays were just around the corner. The new season of the year brought a sense of excitement and nerves to the fire department. While the crews enjoyed the celebrations, they all knew it was the time when parents could get forgetful. The forgetful ones were the ones that scared the department because that could put young lives at risk.

A shift's first shift in November started on the third. The men had worked Halloween and then had the following two days off.

At station 10, Mike and his crew trudged their way through a day that saw both the engine and squad busy from the word go. While many of the calls were reasonably routine, one call turned the entire shift on its head.

As he usually did, Mike watched Dominic bring in the colors for the evening. The routine always seemed to center both men, no matter how busy both had been during the day. Dominic had just brought the flags were in when the tones rang out yet again.

"Station 10, see the cops, unresponsive male at 844 Commerce Street. That's 8-4-4 Commerce, cross street, Anderson. An ambulance has been dispatched. Time out 1845."

Six hearts hit their owners' throats as the men sprinted for their vehicle. Mike quickly acknowledged the call before he handed over the call slip and went diving for the engine. Every man knew seconds were going to count during this call.

The bay door was already open because Hank had been called out roughly thirty minutes before. Kyle and Taylor took off with lights and sirens blaring as soon as they had the call information. The tension was palpable in the squad and the engine. Dominic had to work hard to keep up with the smaller Dodge.

KMG 365

Thanks to skilled driving, the six men arrived mere minutes after the call went out. As both trucks screeched to a halt, Kyle and Taylor jumped out. They grabbed their oxygen and medical kit and headed inside.

A uniformed cop met them halfway across the yard as the engine crew gathered the biophone and other needed equipment.

Kyle barely slowed as he asked, "Charlie, what do we have?"

The cop's pale look spoke volumes as he responded, "Two stoned parents were supposed to be bathing their four-month-old son Robbie. My partner Luis is doing CPR now."

Stomachs and hearts collectively fell.

"How long was he in the water before you found him?"

"They think five minutes, but I think it's more like ten to fifteen."

Tyler turned and saw the ambulance had not yet arrived. He yelled back, "Cap, get Rampart on the horn; let them know we are bringing the child in in the squad. We can't wait for the ambulance."

"You got it," Mike yelled back. Even though the seasoned firefighter knew the same thing the rest of the crew did, time was likely out for the infant; he knew his paramedics would do their best.

As Mike got Rampart on the radio, Kyle and Tyler followed Charlie into the house. All three men were running at a high rate of speed.

KMG 365

The sight that greeted the young paramedics was enough to make even the most seasoned man sick. Luis was working hard, but the parents were just laughing.

Kyle ran up to Luis. "Luis, I'll take him."

Charlie commented as Luis handed the baby off. "Do whatever you need to. He's in our custody."

Tyler nodded in acknowledgment as he guided Kyle, who was actively doing chest compressions and mouth-to-mouth. The baby was completely naked and blue.

KMG 365

As the duo emerged from the house, Mike decided they were going to take the engine. He updated Rampart, and the paramedics were loaded into the back of the engine with their gear.

To give them room to work, Rocco was taking the squad to Rampart General. Adam would man the biophone. Dominic nearly put the pedal through the floor as he left the scene

Kyle and Tyler switched off as the baritone voice of Kel Brackett barked out the drug orders. Kyle was slightly better at establishing medications in smaller patients. The winded paramedic focused on the medicines after getting Robbie hooked up to the monitor. The machine told the story with a single flat line.

Kyle caught his breath and reported the line to Kel, who then ordered epinephrine administered directly to the heart before Taylor started the CPR again. For a moment, the epi appeared to work as the line blipped a few times. However, the rate was far from stable.

Thanks to Dominic's speed, the engine flew into Rampart just seconds after the epi was administered. Adam was still assisting with ventilation as the truck lurched to a stop. Mike jumped from the officer's seat as the engine shut off.

He tore open the backdoor of the engine and helped Kyle and Taylor out of the truck. The duo was about to make a mad dash for the door when Kel met them with a stretcher. Robbie flatlined again as he laid on the stretcher. Without a second thought, Kyle jumped on and started CPR again as Taylor yelled out, "Flatline number two. We had him back for a moment right after the epi was established."

The sprint into the emergency department was made faster than ever before.

KMG 365

Fifteen minutes after the engine arrived, Kel called Robbie's time of death. The head of the emergency department's voice was thick as he said, "Let him rest. Time of death 1930."

Kyle jumped up, "No, we can…."

Taylor grabbed his partner and bear-hugged him from behind to keep him from advancing toward the table. "Let him, rest partner, he may not have had the best time here on earth, but he knew you were fighting for him in those last moments."

Kyle gulped as he listened. It was only then that the defeated medic finally gave in. Taylor let up, and Kyle doubled over to put his hands on his knees. Dixie and Taylor put their hands on his back.

Dixie asked quietly, "Taylor, did the engine bring you in?"

"Yes, ma'am."

"I…I need air." Kyle suddenly gasped.

Dixie spoke quickly, "Taylor, take him outside. I'll get your guys."

Taylor nodded and carefully helped his partner from the room. Kyle forced himself to walk upright, even though he felt like the world was lying on his chest.

KMG 365

The walk outside was painful but needed. Just as Taylor was opening the door to the engine, a police car came screaming into the parking lot. Even though he was struggling, Kyle forced himself back into work mode and joined Taylor at the side of the vehicle as soon as it came to a stop.

Both men were stunned to see Charlie and Luis jump out of the car.

Kyle coughed, "Charlie, what do you have?"

"Robbie's dad was thrashing around and smashed his face off the back of my seat on the way to county."

Kyle nearly threw up in his mouth when he laid his eyes on the man in the back seat. Taylor ran back into the hospital to get another stretcher.

The strung-out hippie flung himself out of the car. Kyle was all too happy to tackle the man before he could stand up. He moved to take the arms as Luis started screaming at the man. The paramedic was about to pin the man's left arm to his side when the man swung.

Lacking his usual reaction time because his mind was still on the recent loss, Kyle didn't see the fist until he felt it as he was punched in the mouth. The paramedic staggered back from the shock of the impact as Luis and Charlie put their knees on the man's back.

KMG 365

As the paramedics made their way outside, Dixie swallowed and headed for the staff lounge, where she knew she would find the others.

The engine crew was on their feet as soon as the door opened. One looked at the seasoned nurse's face answered the group's unasked question.

Rather than voicing that question, Mike asked quietly. "Where are they?"

"Outside, Kyle looked sick and said he needed air."

Mike nodded. "I know you guys did all you could."

Dixie nodded as she wiped a few unshed tears. "We did. Taylor had to hold Kyle back when Kel called it. Kyle didn't want to admit defeat until Taylor bear-hugged him."

"Good to know, thank you. We'll take care of them."

Dixie nodded and let the engine crew go. She decided to forego her coffee and followed the hose jockeys out of the lounge. The group was just getting to the end of the main hall when Taylor ran back into the building.

KMG 365

Taylor yelled out, "We need a stretcher out here."

The call made Dixie and Angie, the orderly, grab a nearby stretcher. They led the refocused engine crew outside. They were just steps away when Kyle was slugged.

A gasp rang out as the distance was made up in a matter of strides. Mike and Taylor headed for Kyle to ensure he didn't get hurt if he lost his balance.

Charlie barked, "We need to tie him down and get him inside."

Adam breathed, "That's the baby's dad."

Confirming the man's identity who slugged their crewmate made the engine crew load him a bit rougher than usual. They ensured it wasn't too harsh, but it wasn't as gentle as they typically loaded a patient.

Mike called out, "Dom, keys."

One flick of the risk and the keys for the engine were in Mike's hand. Mike nodded as the others accompanied the stretcher inside to offer additional manpower before hospital security could take over.

KMG 365

Mike looked at Taylor and Kyle. "Kyle, what do you want to ride back in?"

Kyle gulped and shuttered as he fought his growing emotions. "Squad."

"Can you walk that far?"

"I…I think he so. He just got me in the mouth." Kyle gulped again. "Sorry…" He looked down. "Cap for the trouble."

Mike started to rub the young man's neck gently. "You're not in trouble, Kyle. I want to get you back to the station."

Mike and Taylor helped Kyle into the passenger side of the squad. Taylor asked, "Cap, do I have to drive?"

"If you don't feel up to it, no. I'll have Rocco drive you guys home." Mike's voice was full of concern.

"I'd rather not."

"Okay."

Kyle coughed, "Cap, can I have some water?"

"I'll be right back."

Mike turned and jogged back to the squad. He grabbed two bottles of water. As he grabbed the water from the engine, the rest of the crew and Doctor Joe Early emerged from the hospital.

KMG 365

Mike looked up. "Rocco, I need you to drive the squad."

"I wasn't going to let either of them drive."

The engine crew and Joe followed Mike back to the squad.

Joe looked at Kyle, "Kyle, I know Mike has your water, but I want to take a look at you."

Kyle coughed, "Doc, can I please get a drink first?"

Joe could see the distress in Kyle's eyes and knew it wasn't all from the hit to the jaw. "Yes."

Mike handed over the water and backed off. After two long gulps, Kyle let joe examine him. The paramedic was cleared for duty with the stipulation that if he had any trouble, he was to come back for x-rays. Taylor helped Kyle into the squad after sliding into the middle of the seat.

After Joe was done, Mike shook his hand. "Thank you, Doctor Early."

Joe smiled at his friend. "My pleasure Mike." The older man leaned in. "Let me know if I can do anything to help them."

Mike nodded, "I will."

Joe turned and left.

KMG 365

Mike turned as Rocco climbed behind the wheel. "Rocco, take your time. We'll be right behind you if you need to pull over."

"Understood."

Kyle looked up as he knew what Mike was implying with the last comment. "I'll be okay on the way back, Cap. I just…."

Mike leaned in and spoke gently. "I know, Kyle; I was just letting you guys know it's okay if you need to pull over."

Kyle nodded. "Yes, Sir."

"Watch your knee."

Kyle moved his knee so Mike could close the door. Mike closed the door and jogged back to the engine.

KMG 365

Dominic looked at his fellow officer as Mike boarded the engine. "You ready?"

"Let's go. He's not in good shape, and I know I've gotta get Chief involved because he was injured."

Adam asked, "Is he in trouble?"

Mike answered quickly. "No, not by any means. I just want to make sure that we get it documented more to cover Kyle than anything."

"Okay."

Mike picked up the radio. "LA, engine 10."

"Go ahead, engine 10."

"LA show station 10 out of service for the next forty-five minutes. Have battalion 14 meet us at the station for a Code I report."

"10-4 engine 1. Station 100 out of service, at 1915. LA clear KME 395."

Seconds later, Hank's voice filled the radio. "LA, battalion 14 acknowledging station 10's request."

"10-4 Battalion 14. LA clear KME 495."

The engine fell quiet as the crew tried to wrap their mind around the scene. They also knew it was going to be a rough night for their paramedics.

KMG 365

Just in front of the engine, Rocco handled the squad with practiced ease. Taylor kept a hand on Kyle's back as the shaken paramedic continued to struggle with his emotions.

Taylor's voice was understanding. "Breathe, Kyle. Just breathe; we will talk whenever you're ready, no matter the hour."

The trio went quiet as they heard the conversation between Mike and Hank and LA.

Kyle groaned. "Oh great, I…I have to talk to the chief now. I'm not even sure I can keep my stomach in place, and now he wants me to talk…."

Rocco cut the injured man off. "Listen, Kyle; I have talked to Chief Stanley a few times. I can tell you he will listen to you. He's not going to judge you; if anything, he's going to be worried about you."

"B…but he's never been in my shoes. How am I supposed to talk to him?"

"He might not have been a paramedic, but he's worked with them for years. I'm sure he has a couple of ideas to help you."

Kyle nodded, "I know. I'm just…."

Taylor finished, "Torn up and not just physically. Trust me, partner, we understand. Just remember we are here. Goodness knows when my mind stops spinning, I need to talk to you."

"And I to you." Kyle gulped and coughed. Taylor opened the water bottle he held and handed it to Kyle, who gratefully took several long drinks from it.

KMG 365

Kyle finished the water as Rocco backed the squad into the expansive bay. Once he was parked, Dominic parked the engine. It was only after both trucks were parked that the men exited both vehicles. Adam walked over and closed the bay door. Even though the weather was nice, he wanted to ensure the crew had a few minutes without the neighborhood eyes on them.

Hank waited until the men were out of the trucks before he walked over to Mike. One look at his long-time friend, and Hank knew it was going to be an extremely rough night. "Mike, do you mind if we use the dayroom to fill out the Code I?"

"We can go anywhere Kyle is comfortable."

Both men looked over at the paramedic, who was still quiet. He finally found his voice and said, "The dayroom is fine."

Taylor looked at his partner. "If you would like to go somewhere else, we can."

"No, that's okay, but…." Kyle looked at Mike and Hank. "Can I go to the bathroom first?"

Hank spoke with concern in his voice. "Of course, Kyle. Take your time."

"Thank you."

The shaken man headed for the bathroom.

Taylor looked at Hank and Mike. "Are you going to send him home?"

Mike answered honestly. "Not unless he requests it, Taylor."

Taylor let out a long breath. "Thank you."

"You're welcome."

Hank laid a hand on Taylor's shoulder. "Taylor, are you okay?"

Taylor gulped as he shuttered. "As much as I can be, Chief. I'm not going to lie. That one is going to take a long time to get over."

Hank kept his hand on Taylor's shoulder. "Take a few minutes; check on Kyle if you want. Nobody is going to rush either of you tonight. Okay?"

Taylor swallowed hard. "Thank you."

Taylor turned and headed for the latrine.

KMG 365

Mike looked at Hank. Dominic, Adam, and Rocco had stepped into the dayroom. "Hank, I need help with this one. I can help him to a point, but I don't speak his language."

Hank swallowed. He knew exactly what Mike meant. "I know Mike. If you are okay with it, I am going to call Johnny and Roy. I want to see how soon they can come talk to your guys."

"Thank you. I was going to call them, but…."

Hank clapped his friend on the shoulder. "Take care of your boys. I'll get them. The only thing I don't know is where they're going to want to talk."

"I say let them pick that, so they are somewhere as comfortable as possible because when they open up, it's going to be ugly."

"I got that feeling when I saw the look in your eyes as you got out of the truck."

Mike and Hank walked into the dayroom to wait for the wayward paramedics.

KMG 365

It was a few minutes later when Kyle and Taylor walked into the room. Mike stood and walked over to both of them. His voice was full of concern. "Are you guys okay?"

Taylor responded. "For now."

Kyle added. "Ish. Sorry I needed a few minutes after I went to the bathroom."

Mike laid his hand on Kyle's shoulder. "Kyle, there is no reason to be sorry. We've all had the calls that tear us to the core. After you are done with Chief, go do what you have to do to calm down."

Kyle hiccuped. "Okay. I know we only had a few bites for dinner…."

Mike cut him off. "Eat when you are up to it. I'll make sure the leftovers are ready for you even if it's in the middle of the night."

Kyle took a breath. The shaken man was starting to realize his crew was there for him. It was something he had heard for years but had never really experienced. "Thank you."

"You're welcome."

The trio made their way over to the table.

KMG 365

The conversation with Hank made the engine crew angry at the situation.

After finishing the paperwork, Hank put his pen down. His voice was that of a concerned dad. "Kyle, Taylor, can I ask you something off-the-record?"

"Yes?" Kyle asked.

"Would it help to talk to somebody about what happened tonight?"

Kyle bowed his head. He was quiet for a minute as he tried to figure out how to word his answer. Then he finally raised his head. "Chief, with all, do respect, it's extremely hard to describe what I am feeling right now to someone who has never been a medic."

Hank nodded. "Trust me, Kyle, I understand. Yes, I encourage you to talk to these guys tonight, whenever you are ready. However, I have a couple of people in mind that have been in your shoes when calls go bad with young children involved."

Taylor was nervous. "We…we don't have to talk to somebody downtown, do we?"

Hank shook his head. "No boys, not unless you want to. I am thinking of my former paramedics, and two current captains who I know will talk to you until you feel better, mentally and physically."

"They will?" Kyle's voice was full of confusion. He had bottled so much of his inner pain; he didn't believe what he was hearing.

"They will," Mike answered. "You don't have to talk to them here either. You guys can talk anywhere you feel comfortable."

"C…can we go call them?"

Hank smiled, "If you would like, I can call them from here."

Kyle swallowed, "Honestly, I'd rather call them from your office. If they have a couple of minutes, I have a couple of questions for them."

"We can do that."

"Are you coming with us, Taylor?"

"Yes. Do you mind, Cap?"

Mike responded. "Not at all. Just do me a favor."

"Yes?"

"Tell Roy and Johnny I say hello, please."

Hank smiled lightly. "Definitely, Mike. We'll be in my office."

Hank, Taylor, and Kyle got up from the table and left the day room. The engine crew settled in for their nightly routine, thankful that their friends were going to get some assistance.

KMG 365

Hank led the paramedics down to his office. Once the trio was in the room, he closed the door to give the men a sense of privacy.

"Kyle, Taylor, please sit down."

The two men sat in front of Hank's desk. He picked up the phone and dialed Roy's station first. After two rings, Roy picked up. "Good evening, Station 95; this is Captain Desoto."

Hank smiled lightly, "Roy, it's Chief Stanley."

Roy was surprised to hear Hank's voice. "Hi Chief, what can I do for you?"

"I have a favor to ask of you. Two of them."

"Yes?"

"I am sitting here with Mike's paramedics. They could use an ear for a minute, and then I was wondering if you would have the chance to talk to them tomorrow morning."

Roy knew if Hank was asking, the paramedics had just finished a horrific call. "Of course, do you want me to call Johnny and have him meet us?"

"No thanks, my friend. I am going to call him after you guys are done. Do you mind if I put you on speakerphone?"

"Not at all."

Hank hit the speakerphone button. "Roy, can you hear us?"

"I can. Can you guys hear me?"

"Yes," the trio answered.

Hank continued, "Roy, these are Mike's paramedics Kyle and Taylor. I am going to step out for a bit and let you guys talk before we call Johnny."

"Thank you, Chief."

"By the way, Mike says hi."

"Tell him Chet, and I say hi. Chet's missing his spaghetti."

Hank smirked, "I'll let him know." Hank stood and walked toward the door. "Boys, take your time. Let me know when you are done so that we can call one more person."

"Yes, Chief, "Taylor responded.

Kyle looked pale and shaky as he nodded. Hank laid a comforting hand on both men's shoulders. "Talk to him, guys. Trust me, he understands."

With that, Hank turned and left the office.

KMG 365

Taylor spoke first, "Sir, can you hear us?'

Roy answered, "I sure can. Please, guys, call me Roy."

"O…okay." Kyle's voice started to crack.

Roy's voice was as comforting as possible on the phone. "Boys, listen to me. I am not going to force you to tell me about the call right now. I can hear it in your voices. It's raw and painful. If you want to, or if it just bubbles out, let it. My ears are yours to bend."

"C…can we just ask you a few questions for right now?"

"Of course, anything."

"H…how young was your youngest loss?"

Roy swallowed hard. "Six months when I was working overtime. Two years when I was working with now Chief Stanley."

Kyle's eyes clouded with tears. "D…did you ever have anybody attack you after a call?"

"Me, no. My partner, you're next phone call, has had a few issues with angry family members. He called me after an overtime shift not long into being a medic and told me somebody had punched him in the face because he wasn't able to save their family member."

Kyle gasped as the tears started slowly falling. "I…I got attacked, and I don't even think the dad, and I use that term lightly cared."

"Where did he hit you?"

"Square in the mouth. He almost knocked me over because my mind was still fogged over from…."

Taylor finished the sentence as Kyle bowed his head, more tears falling. "Losing an innocent baby to pure neglect and stupidity."

Roy gasped. "Boys, listen to me, okay?"

"Yes," Taylor responded.

"I mean this honestly; let yourselves grieve. Let yourselves cry whether it's now with me on the phone or as you talk to Johnny Gage. Please don't hold it in. Trust me, both Johnny and I will understand when the tears start tomorrow. We know the accidents and stupidity involving kids hurt the most."

Kyle whimpered as the tears poured out.

"Taylor?"

"Yes?"

"Make sure he doesn't fall…." Roy's tones went off. "Boys, I've got to go, but I will see you as soon as I can tomorrow. I'll come over to your station, and we can figure out where you want to talk."

"Okay, be safe."

"You too."

The line went dead.

KMG 365

Taylor was repositioning Kyle so he didn't fall before getting Hank when Hank opened the door. He walked in and closed it softly. "I figured you guys were done when he got called out."

"Is it a big one?" Kyle bottled his emotions again to ask with sincerity.

"Sounds like a trash fire for right now."

"Good."

"Did talking to Roy help?" Hank asked with concern in his voice.

Taylor swallowed. "Honestly, yes. I mean, I need more time with him, but it helped for now."

"I know what you meant, Taylor." Hank looked over at Kyle, who was still hurting. "Kyle, are you up to talking to Johnny?"

"Y…yes."

"Okay." Hank quickly reached over and dialed the number for 127s.

KMG 365

Johnny picked up the ringing phone after two rings. "Hello, station 127, Captain Gage speaking."

Hank spoke warmly. "Johnny, it's Chief."

Johnny was surprised and concerned. "Hi Chief, is everything okay?"

"I am fine, but I have a couple of shaken paramedics that could use an ear."

"Put 'em on, Chief. I say this with all due respect."

Hank spoke quickly. "I'm leaving now, Johnny."

"Thank you, Chief."

"You're welcome."

Hank turned and once again left the office.

KMG 365

Johnny spoke. "Boys, my name is Johnny Gage. Don't think of me as a Captain. Right now, I am just a paramedic with ears. Whatever you say here stays between us."

Kyle's voice was raw. "Johnny, we talked to Roy earlier."

"I was going to say if you didn't, have Hank call him when we're done."

"He said you got attacked by a family member?"

Johnny swallowed. "He's right. I got punched in the mouth because we lost a full cardiac case when I was working overtime at 36s. Bob Bellingham was my partner for that one."

"I…I got punched in the mouth tonight by a guy so strung out on drugs I don't even think he knows what he did yet."

"Were you still on the scene?"

Taylor responded, "No. I had just helped him back out to the parking lot at Rampart after we lost. He was punched by the strung-out thing that had been a dad, sorta, just a few hours earlier."

The description shook Johnny, who took a moment before he responded. "Kyle isn't it?"

"Yes?" Kyle answered.

"How is your jaw?"

"Okay, Joe Early cleared me."

"Good."

"H…how did you handle the bad ones involving kids?"

"Honestly, I spent as much time outside as I could. Sometimes Roy and I would talk at the station, but a lot of times we talked after we got off duty, and we didn't have to worry about the tones interrupting us."

Taylor spoke up. "He said he would talk to us tomorrow morning. Will you join us?"

"I'll be there as soon as my replacement gets here. We can talk wherever you guys feel comfortable."

"T…thank you." Kyle gasped out as he was trying to fight off another wave of tears.

"Boys, can I give you a couple of tips to get through tonight?"

Taylor said, "We're all ears."

"Get some air. Let some of the tears go. As far as sleeping, if you can't, there's a small daybed by the pole upstairs. Watch the stars from there for a while."

"How do you know about that daybed?" Taylor asked with curiosity in his voice.

"I started my career as a rescue man at 10s. My former partner Tony Freeman and I were the ones that put that together because we needed a place to decompress but didn't wanna deal with going up and down the steps all night."

"Chief didn't tell us that."

"It's okay."

Kyle groaned as his head started hurting. "Johnny?"

"Yes, Kyle?"

"Do you mind if I go lay down? My head hurts not because of my jaw…."

"Because of the scene. I understand, my friend. Listen, if you need anything during the night, call me. I don't care about the time. Let Mike and Chief know that I'll be there ASAP in the morning."

Taylor said, "We will."

"Okay good. See you in the morning, guys."

"You bet your boots."

Johnny hung up.

KMG 365

Taylor helped Kyle from the office back to the dayroom. The suffering man soon found medicine and crackers along with a soda in his hands.

Taylor looked up. "Dom?"

The engineer was at the paramedic's side in seconds. "Yes?"

"Watch him. Make sure he takes the medicine and finishes the crackers."

"Will do."

"Help him upstairs if that's where he wants to go."

Kyle spoke quietly. "Would rather nap on the couch for now. Need you guys."

Dominic said. "We'll get you comfortable, Kyle." He looked over at Taylor. "Go do what you've gotta do; we got him."

Taylor jogged out of the dayroom. He headed toward Mike's office. The door was cracked open.

KMG 365

Taylor knocked on the door. Both Hank and Mike looked up.

Mike called out, "Come in, Taylor."

Taylor opened the door and walked in. "I hope I am not interrupting anything."

"Not at all. How is Kyle?"

"He has some crackers and medicine for a headache right now."

"Where is he?"

"Dom's keeping an eye on him in the dayroom."

"How are you?" Mike asked with concern.

Taylor swallowed hard. "To be honest with both of you, I haven't let it hit and probably won't until tomorrow morning."

"Why?" Hank asked.

"Because if I do, it's not going to be pretty, and I don't want either of us to be sent home tonight."

Mike stood and laid a hand on Taylor's shoulder. "You guys aren't going home unless you ask. I know that would do more harm than good for you."

"It really would, Sir."

"Just promise me something."

"Yes?"

"If you need anything, don't be afraid to say something. We all know Kyle is torn up, and understandably so. However, I know a lot of times, it's the quiet one that suffers the most after that kind of call."

"A couple of quiet ones as I remember," Hank said as he looked at Mike.

Taylor swallowed hard as he wiped a few unshed tears away. "That means a lot; thank you both."

"We mean it," Hank said.

Mike and Hank stayed with Taylor a few more minutes before the trio left the office.

KMG 365

It was nearly 2230 when the crew finally wound done. Hank followed them upstairs and said good night. The seven men wound down and cleaned up before they headed for bed. Even though the rest of the shift had been semi-busy, Kyle still looked like he would be struggling with sleep.

Taylor saw the look in his partner's eyes. "Partner, go lay on the daybed."

Kyle nodded and headed for his new destination. A quick explanation to Mike saw Taylor join him sitting in the recliner next to the bed. The peace of the location let Taylor breathe. He was tired but concerned about Kyle.

Kyle whispered as he looked at Taylor. "Tay, can I ask you something?"

"Anything, my friend."

"S…stay with me until I fall asleep? S…"

"That's my plan, Kyle. Try to close your eyes; I am here if you need anything at all."

"Kay." Kyle yawned. He laid down, keeping his eyes on Taylor.

The junior medic got up and gently pulled the blanket over his partner. His warm, understanding hand stayed on Kyle's back as the tired man finally started to settle.

Taylor spoke softly. "That's it, my friend. Just rest. You are safe."

Kyle took in a breath and stiffened as he closed his eyes. Taylor rubbed his back softly until pure exhaustion won out. Taylor waited a few minutes before he slipped back into his bed for the night and let sleep claim him.

KMG 365

Neither man heard their Captain and Chief get up a little while later to check on them. The two officers and friends smiled lightly at each other at the scene.

Hank mouthed, "Remind you of someone?"

Mike nodded and mouthed, "I'm just glad they're resting."

After watching the duo, Mike and Hank parted ways and headed back to bed after a few minutes. As they did, both men shared the same thought. 'Let's hope the county behaves.'

The county surprisingly answered the thought. While the surrounding stations and Hank were called a few times, the men of station 10 were able to rest. Even in the daybed, Kyle had a rough night. However, he managed to get a few hours due to pure exhaustion kicking in at just after 0200.

Groans and muttered curse words filled the station's top floor when dispatch won the men the next morning. Dom went down to handle the flags while the others struggled to get functional. Kyle looked worse for wear, but was trying to be himself. Taylor was in the same boat.

Adam made the crew a light but needed breakfast and much-needed coffee after Dominic came back in.

KMG 365

Roy and Johnny left their stations just minutes after they acknowledged the wake-up tones across town. Both men had called their replacements after talking to Kyle and Taylor. The B shift captains at both stations have no problem coming in early.

A silent wish from both men was answered as traffic was light enough to make the commute short. They arrived at the same time with Johnny just ahead of Roy. The duo parked next to one another and quickly climbed from their vehicles, already in civilian clothes.

Roy smiled lightly, "Hey, partner."

Johnny smiled, "Good morning, partner." He sobered, "Shall we go fix Mike's guys."

Roy sobered, "Let's do it. I'm just glad Hank called us. They both sounded torn up last night."

"I know what you mean."

The duo made their way toward the station. Johnny rang the back doorbell just as Dominic was coming in from doing the colors.

KMG 365

Hank was walking by the door when the bell rang. He turned and opened it with a slight smile as he greeted his friends. "Good morning, guys; thank you for getting here so early."

Johnny smiled tightly, "Our pleasure Chief."

Roy asked with concern in his voice. "How are they?"

Hank responded as the new arrivals walked inside. "As best as can be expected."

Roy and Johnny nodded understandingly as the duo made their way to the dayroom. Their approaching footsteps made Mike and his crew look up from their breakfast. Mike smiled tightly at his friends.

As Mike got to his feet, he spoke. "Dom, will you get our visitors some coffee? One straight black the other with a shot of milk in it."

"Of course." The curious Engineer said.

"Thank you."

Mike walked over to his friends and shook their hands. "Thanks for coming, guys."

Roy nodded. "We'd have been here faster…."

"That's okay." Mike turned to his confused and curious crew. "Guys, please welcome Captain Roy Desoto from station 95 and Captain John Gage from station 127. They are two very good friends, former crew members, and two of the original paramedics in the county."

Dom walked over with the coffee as Kyle and Taylor dropped their heads. "Here you go, guys. Who gets what?"

Roy smiled, "I'll take the straight black."

The coffee was doled out and downed in two mouthfuls as Johnny and Roy had noticed the reactions of the paramedics.

Roy looked at Mike. "Mike, are you good?"

Mike swallowed and answered honestly. "I will be."

Hank spoke up. "Boys, I've got him. Give me your cups."

Johnny nodded at the new arrivals as the coffee cups were handed over.

KMG 365

Johnny and Roy walked over to Kyle and Taylor.

"Kyle, Taylor," Johnny spoke as he knelt.

Both shaken men slowly looked up. The other men stayed quiet and watched the scene playing out.

Johnny's voice was calm and comforting. "Easy guys. Take your time, eat if you want. You have us all day."

Kyle swallowed. "But, you have families too…."

Roy responded. "Guys, our families understand. Have you eaten?"

Taylor spoke for the first time. "Yes. It wasn't easy, but I got it all down. Don't get me wrong, Adam is a good cook, but…."

"When your mind is messing with you, your stomach isn't far behind." Roy finished.

Taylor nodded. "Exactly."

Johnny asked, "Kyle?"

Kyle nodded slowly. "I managed to have some toast right now."

"At least it's something."

Kyle asked, "Do we have to talk here?"

Johnny shook his head. "No. As soon as your replacements get here, we can go anywhere you want."

Roy added. "I'm driving. We'll figure out the vehicles later."

Hank spoke up. "Guys, we can get your vehicles home."

"Really?" Kyle was stunned that his chief was willing to help as much.

"Yes, Kyle."

"Thank you. I'll be right back."

Kyle got up and left. Taylor was hot on his heels.

KMG 365

Johnny looked at Mike. "Mike, can I ask you a favor?"

"Come on, boys, it's on my desk."

"Thank you."

Johnny and Roy headed for Mike's office to read the call report.

KMG 365

Twenty minutes after Johnny and Roy arrived, B shift arrived. As promised, Kyle and Taylor were released as soon as their replacements were in uniforms and ready to go. Mike walked with the four medics out to the back parking lot. He had soda and water in his hands.

Kyle shuddered as the morning air hit him. Johnny laid his hand on Kyle's shoulder. "Kyle?"

"Yes, Captain Gage."

"Please, guys, it's Johnny. We are off duty, and this is among friends."

"O…okay."

"My friend, what do you need?"

Kyle gulped as Taylor answered the question for both of them. "Honestly, an ugly break. We took your advice last night, but…."

Roy finished, "You were afraid to because you were still on duty."

Taylor nodded, "Exactly."

Mike spoke. "Guys, please for yourselves, let it get as ugly as you need today."

Kyle shuttered again. 'I…I can't drive."

Roy said, "That's okay, Kyle. I am going to drive. We are going to take Johnny's Rover."

Johnny nodded and flipped Roy the keys. Roy grabbed them with practiced ease and opened the doors. Kyle and Taylor climbed into the back seat.

Roy jumped in the front seat. Johnny walked over to Mike after closing the backdoor. He laid a hand on his friend's shoulder. "Mike, breathe."

Mike gulped. "I'm not gonna lie; I'm worried about them, Johnny."

"We've got them, my friend. I promise by the time we are back on duty; they will be ready to go again. Now I want you to do me a favor."

"What?"

"Talk to Hank for a while until you feel better. We've got your boys; let him help you."

"That I can do." Mike let out a slow breath as he handed over the drinks. "Here, I didn't know if you guys would need them."

"Thank you, my friend." Johnny took the drinks. "We'll call you later."

"Okay."

Johnny turned and jogged back over to the truck.

KMG 365

Mike backed up and waited until Roy backed out and took off after a quick honk of the horn. In the rover, Roy asked, "Okay boys, where do you want to go?"

Taylor replied, "It's up to Kyle."

Kyle thought for a moment. "Do you know the park off of South Orrick?"

"Yes."

"Can we go there?"

"Sure. I know Mike gave Johnny some drinks, but if you guys want anything or need me to stop for any reason on the way to the park, just let me know."

"Okay."

Taylor asked, "Johnny?"

"Yes?" Johnny turned to face the guys.

"Thank you."

Johnny nodded. "Boys, anytime, and I mean it. Mike and Hank both know what kind of hell we've gone through in the past. Anytime you need an ear call."

Kyle asked, "Can I tell you guys something?"

Roy responded, "Anything."

"It has felt different since they took over the station."

"How so?"

"It finally feels comfortable there. Like we have a full crew to line up and lean on after crap hits the fan."

Johnny smiled lightly. "That's good to hear, guys."

Twenty minutes after leaving the station, Roy pulled into the parking lot of the park. He headed for a quiet spot that was at the far end, away from everything.

Roy put the truck in park and asked. "Does this work, guys?"

Kyle looked around. "Yes."

"Good."

Roy and Johnny climbed out of the front seat. They climbed in the truck's back door and closed it, so they were as close as possible to Kyle and Taylor.

KMG 365

Johnny's voice was soft and understanding. "Okay, boys, who wants to start? Remember everything that is said here stays between the four of us."

Kyle gulped and started to shudder as he closed his eyes. The warmth of three hands finally broke the man that had been struggling for over twelve hours.

Taylor spoke gently. "Kyle, let it go, man. You've been struggling since Brackett called it."

Roy asked, "Brackett called what boys?"

Even though Roy and Johnny had read the report, they knew the guys had to voice the situation to get through it.

Taylor responded. "We had a call just after Dom brought the flags in last night. It was for a child down, so all six of us responded. When we got there, we were met by a cop…."

Taylor shuddered as Roy reached over and grabbed him. He took a deep breath before he continued. "Charlie met us. Louis was inside working on a four-month-old baby…."

Taylor finally started letting his tears fall. Roy rubbed his back as Kyle whimpered, "Please don't. Why?"

Johnny put his arms around Kyle to keep him protected from falling. "Because it helps us to know what you guys saw. I know it's going to hurt my friend, but it will help."

Kyle whimpered as he shook. "I've seen it since last night every time I close my eyes."

Roy spoke gently, "Kyle do me a favor; take us back there. What did you see? What did you feel?"

Kyle whimpered again as he began to shake. The trio once again wrapped him up. The more Kyle shook, the more Taylor fought.

"Boys, close your eyes, let it come to you."

Both men did so as Taylor continued. "The house smelled like some kind of a dirty frat house. There was trash and crap everywhere. We bolted past the mother, who was laughing hysterically, stoned out o her mind, and headed into the bathroom. Luis was in a full sweat; he refused to give up until Kyle asked for…."

Kyle gagged and coughed before he could speak. "Rob…Robbie, he was so innocent. His….his…..parents…." Kyle gagged on the last word. "Put him in the tub, and….f…forgot about him." Kyle managed to finish with a thick, shaking voice. "We took him in the engine. Dom had the pedal through the floor as we worked."

The tears poured uncontrollably from Taylor as he said. "I did the CPR while Kyle started the epi."

Kyle let out another strangled sob. "I…I had him back for a second. He flatlined again as we laid him down at the hospital. Taylor had to hold me back when Brackett finally called it. I wasn't sure if I was going to see my dinner again, so Taylor helped me out, and I got clocked because I wasn't thinking."

Johnny started to rub Kyle's back more as the paramedic finally started to grieve for the young baby who had taken part of his heart. Johnny spoke gently as he rubbed his back. "Let it out, Kyle. Just let it all go."

Reassured by Johnny, Kyle finally broke down. The force of one sob rocked him into Johnny's arms. The former medic held him protectively as he rubbed his back. Seeing his partner break finally broke Taylor. Twenty minutes later, Taylor and Kyle were finally out of tears. Roy reached into his pocket and retrieved a couple of meds for both men. "Here, guys." The medicine was taken gratefully.

KMG 365

Taylor found his voice first. "I…I didn't realize how bad I needed that."

"Me either." Kyle chimed in after he found his voice. He let out a burp as he took the medicine. "Sorry guys, my stomach has been a knot of anger and frustration since last night."

Johnny responded, "Nothing to be sorry about, Kyle. Trust me; you are not the first one to get knotted up over a bad call. Roy and I had our fair share of stomach twisters with different cases. Do you feel better?'

"Getting there. It takes a lot out of you when you've held it in for so long."

"I know."

Taylor asked, "How did you guys get through the bad calls?"

Johnny responded. "Leaned on each other. Came up here a few times during our shift and the mountains. Talked to our crew too."

Roy added. "Talked to my kids. Even though they were older than our worst child loss, it still helped to hear their voices."

"Did your crew understand even though they are not medics?" Taylor asked curiously.

"To an extent, yes. They might not understand the terminology, but they knew how passionate we were in the squad. Some nights we didn't say anything. Other days they listened to us until well after midnight. Heck, that happened on our last shift."

"You went out with a bad one?" Kyle asked as he started calming down.

"Thankfully, it was a save, but in a bad spot."

"Mind if we ask?"

Johnny opened one of the waters as he handed Roy the other. He took a drink and then started. "Our last call in the squad brought my rescue career full circle. It was in the same location as my last call on squad 10 before I went to paramedic training."

Roy laid a hand on Johnny's neck. Johnny nodded his thanks and started again. "It was a high voltage electrocution. This time, Roy and I were able to save him. The first time at that location, I was a rescue man out of 10s. Tony Freeman and I lost the victim because we didn't have the right drugs or training. Even Brackett commented that if someone with the proper training had gotten to him, he might have survived."

Kyle and Taylor were shocked. Taylor asked, "What did you do when he said that?"

"Bout put my fist through the outside wall at 10s. The next morning I went to see Roy about the paramedic program, and the rest, as they say, is history."

"Do you still have your paramedic pin?"

Johnny shook his head. "Not right now. We had to give them up for now when we became captains. Chief Stanley is working on that, though."

"Is there anything we can do to help?"

"Talk to Brackett and ask him. He is helping us too."

"Will do."

Kyle finished his soda and leaned back against the side of the Rover. "How do we ever say thank you for listening? I mean I….I could barely get through the code I reported last night. Now I am feeling human again."

Roy smiled, "Well, then we've done our jobs. As far as thank you, you're welcome, guys."

Johnny added, "Just continue being you. Remember you can talk to anybody. Dixie McCall has a good set of ears as well as Mike and Hank."

Taylor yawned. "Would you believe I am tired now that I've got that all off my chest?"

Johnny smiled. "Definitely."

Roy smiled, "I'll take you guys home."

Kyle nodded as his eyes slid closed.

Johnny smiled, "Hey Roy, you wanna drive? I'll keep these guys from bouncing around too much."

"You got it."

Roy climbed out of the back door of the rover. He was behind the wheel again with the air on in seconds.

KMG 365

The motion of the rover plus the cool air soon had both Kyle and Taylor snoring. Johnny kept a protective eye on both of them as Roy headed for the addresses he had written down. Two hours after arriving at the station, Roy helped Johnny get Kyle and Taylor into their shared apartment.

Roy drove the duo back to station 10, where Johnny let him get his car. Then the pair split to enjoy the rest of the day. Roy called Hank and Mike. Both officers were happy to hear the men were feeling better. It helped both men relax after the bad shift.