p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;" align="center"Chapter 3-A Change in Plans/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike and Hank slept right through the first light of dawn. The sun had risen just a few hours after their sleeping bags grabbed their attention. It was nearly 10 before either man woke up. Mike, because he had finally recharged. Hank because he had recharged and needed to answer nature's call./p
p class="MsoNormal"The duo changed in their tents and then emerged. Both of them had a serious case of bed head but looked more refreshed./p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike smiled, "Morning, Hank."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled, "Morning, Mike. How'd you sleep?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""I was out cold once I settled in. You?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""I was down for the count. I probably would have given Chet a run for his money the way I was snoring last night."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Both men laughed. Mike smiled, "You and me both."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Hey pal, I need to go use the bathroom. Then we can discuss the plans for the day."/p
p class="MsoNormal""I'm coming with you since we don't have a fire to worry about."/p
p class="MsoNormal"The duo headed off to the bathroom to clean up for the day. The walk was silent as both men shook the cobwebs from their brains. After tending to their morning business, they made the short walk back./p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike looked around. "This place is so beautiful, but…"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank finished the thought. "I think we've had our fun up here for the weekend. What do you say we spend tonight at my house? Maybe we can catch the Dodgers game and relax."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Sounds like a plan to me."/p
p class="MsoNormal""We can drop the food off at my place before we get your stuff and head for Rampart."/p
p class="MsoNormal""I know you want to go see Cameron and his family. I was going to ask when we were doing that."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank swallowed, "I'd like to as soon as we can."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Then let's get going. I saw a little diner just before that last traffic light yesterday. It looked good for breakfast today."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Sounds good to me." Hank's stomach rumbled. "I am kinda hungry this morning."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike smiled as his stomach rumbled. "So am I."/p
p class="MsoNormal"As they did the day before, the guys worked together to break camp. The extra water was dumped from the bucket into the fire ring. Even though they had drowned their fire from the night before, both men didn't want to take any chances. By 1030, they were completely packed and ready to go./p
p class="MsoNormal"The short drive back to the Ranger's station was done in silence./p
p class="MsoNormal"KMG 365/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank and Mike walked into the office. JB looked up. "Good morning, boys."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled, "Good morning JB."/p
p class="MsoNormal""What can I do for you?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike smiled, "As much as we like the campground, we've had our fill of fun for the weekend."/p
p class="MsoNormal"JB nodded as Mile slid the parking tag back across the desk. "After the fun we had this morning. I can't say I blame you."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled, "Thanks again for your help."/p
p class="MsoNormal""You're welcome."/p
p class="MsoNormal"JB and Mike settled the bill before the trio bid each other good-bye./p
p class="MsoNormal"KMG 365/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank and Mike headed out of the station and climbed back into Mike's truck. In just seconds, they were back on the road. The drive to the diner was filled with alternate bouts of yawning as both men worked to wake up without coffee./p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled, "I don't know what they have food-wise, but I really hope this place has good coffee."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike smiled and replied without taking his eyes off the road. "At this point, I'd take the sludge that Chet calls coffee."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Now that's saying something," Hank replied as he spotted the diner. "On the right about 200 yards up."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike carefully switched lanes and turned on his blinker. Unlike many of their fellow drivers, the duo actually knew the light was more than a blinking decoration. Mike looked up. His voice was full of curiosity when he spoke. "I wonder what a New Jersey-style diner means."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank grinned, "It means we're going to eat more for breakfast this morning than even Chet and Marco are going to eat this weekend."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike laughed, "Oh, really?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Oh yeah. One of the few things I miss from back east is the huge breakfasts from a Jersey diner."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike found a spot. "Now, this I've got to see." The two men chuckled as they climbed out of the truck and headed inside./p
p class="MsoNormal"An older man of Greek descent met them. Hank mouthed, 'This will be a good one,' to Mike as the older man spoke. "Good morning gentlemen, welcome to Kodos Jersey Style Diner."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank and Mike smiled, "Good morning."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Just the two of you this morning?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Yes." Hank smiled./p
p class="MsoNormal""Booth or table?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Either is fine."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Okay." The older man took a look around the bustling restaurant. He finally spotted an open table. "Follow me." The greeter led the men through the restaurant to the table. "Here you go, gentlemen, your server will be over shortly."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled," Thank you."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike sat on the right side of the table. Hank took the chair on the left. Both men were stunned to see something that resembled a small novel. Mike gasped, "Uh, is this the menu or a book."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank laughed, "Both."/p
p class="MsoNormal"The duo had just started searching the menu when a young gentleman walked up. "Good morning, gentlemen, my name is Ned. I will be your server this morning."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Good morning," Mike and Hank said at the same time./p
p class="MsoNormal""Can I start you off with something to drink?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Black coffee, please," Hank said./p
p class="MsoNormal""And you, Sir?" Ned turned to Mike./p
p class="MsoNormal""I'll have the same."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Okay, I'll be right back with your drinks."/p
p class="MsoNormal"The young server walked away as the men once again looked at their menus. Neither of them could decide until Ned returned./p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike asked, "Ned, I have a question."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Yes?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Do you recommend the bacon or sausage with the Jersey special."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Bacon."/p
p class="MsoNormal""That sounds good. I'll take the Jersey special with the bacon."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Yes, Sir, how would you like your eggs?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Over easy, please."/p
p class="MsoNormal""White or wheat toast?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""White, please."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Home fries or hash browns?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Hash browns."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Yes, Sir, and for you?" Ned looked at Hank./p
p class="MsoNormal""I'll take the town and county salute."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Ned smiled, "That's one of my favorites for breakfast. What would you like on your Belgian Waffle?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Strawberries and whip cream, please."/p
p class="MsoNormal""And your meat?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Can I have the pork roll? It's been a long time since I've had them."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Yes, Sir. Can I get you guys anything else?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""No thanks," Mike and Hank echoed./p
p class="MsoNormal"Ned smiled as he turned and left./p
p class="MsoNormal"KMG 365/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike looked at Hank. "Uh Cap, am I going to need to order new pants after this?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank chuckled. "I'm not going to lie, you very well might."/p
p class="MsoNormal""At least you're honest," Mike smirked as he tried the coffee. "Oh, my goodness, this is amazing."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank took a long drink. "It really is."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Their eyes started to brighten as the much-needed black gold hit their systems. Hank saw Mike rub his shoulder. "You good, Mike?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike smiled, "Good to go. Just stretching out the end of this morning."/p
p class="MsoNormal""I don't blame you." Hank shuddered, "I hope we don't have another wake-up call like that anytime soon."/p
p class="MsoNormal""You and me both."/p
p class="MsoNormal"The men went quiet as they listened to the hum of the diner. It was nice to wake up with people who weren't style="mso-spacerun: yes;" /spanNed returned after a little bit and quietly refilled their coffee. Both men nodded their thanks./p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank asked, "Hey Mike, have you ever been to Chavez Ravine?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""In person?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Yes."/p
p class="MsoNormal""No." Mike ducked his head slightly. "I've always wanted to go, but never had anybody to go with."/p
p class="MsoNormal""How about we see if we can get tickets for tonight? I think after this morning, we deserve to splurge a bit."/p
p class="MsoNormal""But…" Mike's voice dropped./p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank asked, "But what, my friend?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""A…are..aren't you supposed to take a glove to a game?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Yes. At least that's the tradition."/p
p class="MsoNormal""I…I don't have a glove." The quiet man's face turned pink with embarrassment./p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank made a mental note for this year's Christmas gift exchange. He would make sure he got Mike in the Secret Santa and rectify the glove situation. He smiled broadly as he put his hand on Mike's shoulder. "That's okay, my friend. I have an extra one you can borrow for tonight."/p
p class="MsoNormal""A... are you sure?" Mike stammered./p
p class="MsoNormal""I am." Hank smiled reassuringly./p
p class="MsoNormal""Well, then yes, I would love to go to the game tonight."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Excellent."/p
p class="MsoNormal"The conversation ended quickly as both men drained their coffee. Their jaws dropped slightly when Ned arrived with another young man. Both men were laden with overfilling trays. Ned laid out Mike's Vincentown special out. It was two eggs with bacon, toast, jelly, and hash browns on a plate the size of a small manhole cover. Ned's assistant laid out the waffle that took up the entire plate. Next to it was the plate of pork roll and a small wire container featuring three types of syrup./p
p class="MsoNormal"Ned asked, "Can I get you anything else, gentlemen?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""More coffee for both of us, please," Mike replied./p
p class="MsoNormal""Of course. Enjoy." Ned and his assistant walked away./p
p class="MsoNormal"KMG 365/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike took a moment and stared at the feast in front of him. Hank grinned and asked, "What's wrong, my friend?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike looked at his superior with a slightly embarrassed look, "I uh, I don't know where to start?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Well, you can do it the way they do it and go for a bit of everything or just pick a spot on the plate and work around it from there."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Hmm, I think I'll do it the way they do it."/p
p class="MsoNormal"The duo settled into their feasts as Ned returned and filled their coffee. Both men nodded their thanks. For the longest time, the only sound at the table was the sounds of style="mso-spacerun: yes;" /spanFinally, Hank hit a wall as he finished the oversized and overloaded waffle./p
p class="MsoNormal""Oh my, I forgot how big those things were." He squirmed slightly in his seat as he sat back./p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike smiled, "I'll have to try that the next time I'm in the area."/p
p class="MsoNormal""It's amazing but huge."/p
p class="MsoNormal""It looks at it."/p
p class="MsoNormal""How's your breakfast?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Amazing."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Good."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike spied Hank's yet to be touched pork roll. There were two slices on the plate. "What's that?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled, "Pork roll, you wanna try some?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Looks interesting. Would you mind?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Not at all." Hank handed over the plate. Mike used his fork to grab one slice before he returned the plate./p
p class="MsoNormal"Both men enjoyed their meal before they sat back with a satisfied smile. It was obvious they were glad the game was later that night as both were overstuffed./p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike covered a small hiccup before he said, "That was amazing."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled as he hiccupped. "It certainly was. Thanks for spotting this yesterday."/p
p class="MsoNormal""My pleasure. I am going to use the restroom."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Okay, I'll ask for the check."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Cap…"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Nope, you got the campsite. I'm getting our feast." Hank smiled, but the tone was clear. He was not taking Mike's money./p
p class="MsoNormal""Okay."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike got up and headed for the bathroom. Hank waved Ned over and requested the meal on one check. The young man returned moments later with the paper. After seeing the total, Hank left a twenty percent tip before getting up to pay the bill./p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike met him at the front door with a smile. "Thank you."/p
p class="MsoNormal""My pleasure." Hank smiled. "I'll be right back."/p
p class="MsoNormal""I'll meet you in the truck."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Okay."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank turned and headed for the bathroom while Mike walked out to the truck./p
p class="MsoNormal"KMG 365/p
p class="MsoNormal"The engineer climbed inside and sat back. A combination of food coma and fresh air soon saw him put his head back and close his eyes. Hank walked out of the diner a few minutes later and smiled as he spotted the sleeping man. He waited outside the truck for a few minutes before he double tapped the door./p
p class="MsoNormal"The sound woke Mike up. He smirked embarrassed at Hank as the older man climbed in the truck. "S... Sorry about that."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled, "Nothing to be sorry about. I know those meals are nap-inducing, and engineers can fall asleep anywhere."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike chuckled, "That we can. Quick question in case the food coma catches up to you."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Yes?" Hank's eyes were already getting heavy./p
p class="MsoNormal""Where to first?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Are you okay with what you are wearing for the game?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Sure."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Then how about my house first. We can put the rest of the food away, stretch for a bit, and then head out. We'll swing by your place on the way to Rampart before we go to the game."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Sounds good. Get some rest." Mike smiled, "Have a good nap."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike backed out of the parking spot and hit the road. Hank was asleep before the front tires found the road. The driver turned the radio on but kept it low to let the food coma claim his passenger. The drive was quiet except for the music and some light snoring from the overstuffed passenger./p
p class="MsoNormal"It was nearly an hour after they left the diner before Mike pulled into Hank's driveway. The sound of the engine shutting off woke the slumbering homeowner. Hank smiled sheepishly, "Sorry about that."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike smiled, "Don't be."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Both men climbed out of the truck. They grabbed their clothes and made quick work of unloading the cooler. Mike carried the cooler up to the door as Hank unlocked it. He continued into the kitchen after the door was opened./p
p class="MsoNormal"KMG 365/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank followed Mike into the kitchen. The duo made quick work of emptying the cooler. Once it was empty, Hank said, "Mike, give me your clothes."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Why?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Well, I know we want to stretch for a bit. I want to make sure your wet stuff from last night gets washed before it starts smelling."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Y…you sure, Cap?" Mike was genuinely surprised./p
p class="MsoNormal""Positive." Without a second thought, Mike handed over the bag with his wet stuff./p
p class="MsoNormal"As Hank headed for the laundry room, Mike walked back outside. He picked up the footlocker and carried that with Hank's tent into the house and then into the garage. After he put the stuff away, he turned and headed back inside./p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike and Hank met up in the living style="mso-spacerun: yes;" /spanIt was nearly noon. Hank said, "I put your clothes on a quick wash. They'll be done in about forty minutes."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Okay."/p
p class="MsoNormal"The duo settled in for some television. After a quick show went off, they took turns getting much-needed showers. By the time Mike was done, the laundry was done. His beloved Dodgers shirt was thrown into the dryer before anything else./p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled as he saw his friend walking around in jeans, warm socks, and shoes. "Your shirt should be done in a few. I put it on the quick-dry cycle. We can take of the rest after we get back tonight."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Sounds good."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Come here while we wait for your shirt."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Okay."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike followed Hank into his small office. It was decorated with a mix of pictures from his career and traveled as a Brat. Hank opened the small closet and grabbed two baseball mitts. He handed both to Mike. "See which one fits better."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike was stunned. Both mitts were a rich brown color with a baseball tied in each to help keep its shape. He tried both on and found that the first one fit just a bit better. "D…do you mind if I use this one tonight?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled, "Not at all."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Thank you." Mike handed the other glove back to Hank./p
p class="MsoNormal"KMG 365/p
p class="MsoNormal"The duo turned and left the room. The dryer buzzed as they passed the laundry room. Hank stopped and grabbed the shirt. He handed it to Mike, before the rest of their camp clothes, went in the dryer./p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike slid the warm shirt on and smiled. "Thanks, Cap, this feels great."/p
p class="MsoNormal""You're welcome pal, are you ready to go?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Yep. You?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Let's get after it."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank was also wearing a Dodgers shirt. He grabbed his wallet and keys as well as a Dodgers hat on the way out the door. Mike followed him, carrying both gloves./p
p class="MsoNormal"KMG 365/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank turned and locked the doors. "How about we take my car tonight?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike smiled, "Okay."/p
p class="MsoNormal"The duo walked over and climbed in the sedan. Hank backed up and headed for Mike's place. The drive went smoothly as traffic was relatively light for a weekend day./p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike smiled as Hank shut the engine off. "I'll be right back, Cap."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Take your time. I'm not in any hurry."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike nodded as he grabbed his keys and climbed out of the truck. He jogged over to the front door and opened it. Once inside, he made quick work of grabbing his uniforms and camera. He also found his hat for the game. Then he made a quick stop in the bathroom before he headed back out, making sure to close and lock the door behind him. He opened the door and put the uniforms right behind Hank to leave the rear window clear./p
p class="MsoNormal"Once the uniforms were hung up, Mike climbed back in the front passenger seat. Hank asked, "Ready to go?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Yes."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Next stop, Rampart."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Both men kept a sharp on the road as they made the fifteen-minute drive to the hospital. Hank found a spot in the main lot./p
p class="MsoNormal"KMG 365/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank swallowed, "You know these trips never get any easier, whether I am visiting one of you guys or another friend.."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike clapped his friend on the back. "I know, Cap, let's go see them."/p
p class="MsoNormal"The duo nervously climbed from the car and headed for the massive hospital. They made a quick stop at the gift shop where they bought teddy bears for Julie and Cameron. Teddy bears in hand; they headed for the one place they knew they could find information, the nurse's station in the emergency room. Head nurse Dixie McCall looked up at the sound of the approaching footsteps. She was stunned to see her friends. "Hi Mike, hi, Hank."/p
p class="MsoNormal" /p
p class="MsoNormal""Hi, Miss. McCall," Hank smiled./p
p class="MsoNormal""What can I do for you two? Aren't you off today?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""We are. We came by to visit some friends we made last night before we head to the game. We were kind of hoping you could help us find them."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Oh?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike asked, "Were you here when the Timberland victims came in?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Dixie swallowed as the memory of the victims from the early morning incident ran through her mind. "I was. Kel took care of the kids while Joe took care of the parents. Morton's been out with that wicked bug going around, so Taylor took care of the two nimrods from the car. They were released to the police after a few hours. Doctor Jackson admitted all of them to the burn ward."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank couldn't hide the nerves that crept into his voice. "C...can we see them?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""I don't see why not. Do you want me to take you up there?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""If you want or…"/p
p class="MsoNormal"At that moment, Dr. Joe Early walked by. "Hi, Hank, hi Mike. Where are you heading to?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Dixie answered for her friends. "They want to go see the Timberland crew from last night the Albertsons."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Joe smiled, "I was heading upstairs anyway to check in on a few things since I have to work for Mike today. I can take them."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Would you mind, Joe?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Not at all. Come on, guys."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Thanks, Joe. See you later, guys."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike and Hank walked away with Joe. The trio headed for the elevator. Joe asked, "Out of curiosity, boys, what brings you to see them?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank replied, "We were the ones who took care of them at the campground."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Joe nodded in understanding. "I was wondering where the department t-shirt came from."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled, "My gym bag." His voice grew serious, "We needed it to help Cameron out while Bob Bellingham splinted his ankle. He bit down on it while I held him still."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Joe heard the tone. "He's okay, Hank. I promise. Kel worked with an ortho to get him cleaned up and casted. He didn't need surgery, just a lot of TLC."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike asked, "How are his parents and his sister Julie?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""When I checked on them this morning, they were all stable and hanging in there."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike and Hank both let out a sigh of relief neither of them realized they had been holding./p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank asked, "Did I hear you say something about having to work for Mike?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Joe winced, "Yeah, Morton called out with that stomach bug that's going around, so I have to work for him tonight. It's a bummer too because my friend and I had tickets to the Dodgers-Tigers game tonight. Then he got sick too."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank grinned, "Hey Doc, by chance do you have those tickets on you?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""They're in my locker. Why?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""What if Mike and I take them off your hands? We were going to try and get tickets for tonight. Kind of treat us after the early morning wake up call."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Joe smiled as the elevator reached their floor. "On one condition, Hank."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Yes?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""I'll trade you the tickets for some of your clam chowder."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank grinned, "Deal."/p
p class="MsoNormal"The three men shook hands as they walked up to the door leading to the burn unit./p
p class="MsoNormal"KMG 365/p
p class="MsoNormal"When Mike and Hank realized where they were, they immediately grew serious. They had their game faces on. This was not going to be easy on either one of them./p
p class="MsoNormal"Joe noticed the change in their demeanor and said calmly, "I'll take you to their rooms. I promise they really are okay. The parents have some burns on their arms and chest we are watching for the day. The sister's burns are doing okay. Cameron's burns were bothering him this morning, but I think a visit from his favorite fire captain may fix that."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Joe led the trio into the burn ward and slowly made their way down the snake of rooms until they found the two side by side units. One housed Brent and Becky. The other one housed Julie and style="mso-spacerun: yes;" /spanA quick peek into the parents' room revealed they weren't there./p
p class="MsoNormal"Joe knocked on the semi-closed door of the kids' room. "Come in" Brent called out./p
p class="MsoNormal"Joe opened the door and poked his head in. "Good afternoon all."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Brent smiled, "Good afternoon Doctor Early. How are you?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Doing well. I brought you a couple of visitors. Are you guys up to them?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Becky was surprised, "O…okay."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Joe opened the door wider and held it for Hank and Mike. He smiled as it closed behind the newest visitors. Julie jumped out of bed and ran for Mike. "Mister Mike!"/p
p class="MsoNormal"The taller man picked her up carefully and smiled softly. "I see someone is feeling a lot better."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Brent stood and shook Hank's hand. "We all are thanks to you guys."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled and spoke softly, seeing that Cameron was dozing. "We're just glad you guys are okay."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Brent pulled the captain into a manly hug. It broke only a minute later so that Becky could also hug Hank. Mike waited until they broke apart before he smiled at Julie. "Here, honey, this is for you," he said as he handed Julie one of the stuffed animals./p
p class="MsoNormal"Julie was surprised. "For me?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Yep. A little something to help you feel better. We have one for your brother too."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Julie's voice turned a bit sad. "Cam hasn't felt too good today. He keeps crying out, but they said they could only give him so much medicine."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike hugged the girl a little tighter. "He'll feel better soon, sweetie. Especially with a sister like you by his side."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank looked over at the young boy lying in bed. "Brent, Becky, do you mind?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Brent smiled softly, "No. I think you might be what he needs for a bit."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank walked over to the bed quietly. A skill he had mastered while visiting his own crew several times at style="mso-spacerun: yes;" /spanHe sat down in the chair and gently laid a hand on Cameron's arm. He brushed his arm gently as he said, "Hi Cameron, it's Captain Hank."/p
p class="MsoNormal"The sound of the Captain's voice made the young boy open his eyes. "C…Captain Stanley." Cameron's voice was a mix of surprise and sleep./p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled, "Yeah, buddy, it's me. I came by to see how you're feeling." Cameron reached out for a hug. Careful of the young man's bandages, Hank returned the hug. "I'm right here, my friend."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Not dreaming?" Cameron asked as he woke up more./p
p class="MsoNormal""No, buddy, you're not dreaming. Although your sister says, you've had a rough time."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Medicine makes me sick, and my leg hurts. Otherwise, my burns are okay. They just want to keep putting some kinda stuff on 'em."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank winced at the medicine comment. He had watched his men, especially Johnny, suffer from the same fate several times. "Oh buddy, I'm sorry the medicine makes you sick, but you have to stay ahead of the pain in your ankle."/p
p class="MsoNormal""That's what mom and dad say too, but I…" Cameron took a breath. "Between being scared and everything, it's hard."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank shifted the young boy in his arms so Cameron could rest his head against his chest. "I know, buddy, but you are a strong and brave young boy. You know that's why I gave you my Captain's t-shirt last night. You were so brave."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Julie added a bit down; she didn't get a shirt. "So was I."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank looked up and smiled, "Yes, you were sweetheart. I promise when you guys get out of here, if you come to my fire station, I will have your shirt too. I would have brought one for you now, but they are at the firehouse."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Y…you will?" Julie's voice was full of surprise./p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled, "I will."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Julie scampered out of Mike's arms and walked over. She hugged Hank, careful not to jar him since he still had her brother in his arms. Hank smiled. "I'll give you a proper hug in a minute, okay, honey?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Okay." Julie smiled as she climbed back in bed./p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank turned his attention back to Cameron. "Hey buddy, has anybody signed your cast yet?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Cameron smiled, more awake than he had been in hours. "Just mommy, daddy, and Julie."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Can Mike and I sign it?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Yes!" The young boy replied excitedly. His response brought a chuckle from the adults. Hank carefully propped Cameron up in his bed. He reached over and picked up the permanent marker that had been left on his tray table./p
p class="MsoNormal""Mike, do you want to sign first?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike smiled, "No, Cap. You go ahead. I'll sign it when I bring his stuffed animal over."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled, "Okay." He leaned down and drew a little fire ax before he wrote Get Well Soon, My Friend. Stay Strong. You Are in My Thoughts. Your Friend Captain Hank Stanley span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI Emoji',sans-serif; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol-ext; mso-symbol-font-family: 'Segoe UI Emoji';"😊/span/p
p class="MsoNormal"Cameron looked down and read the message after Hank stood up. His eyes teared up. "Th…thank you."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled warmly as he hugged the boy again. "You're welcome, my friend."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Cameron snuggled in for a minute before he relaxed. He noticed the shirts that Hank and Mike had on and asked, "You wouldn't know by chance know if the Dodgers are on TV tonight, would you?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Before Hank could reply, there was a knock at the door. Mike called out, "Come in."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Joe opened the door and walked in with a smile. "Hi guys, I just saw the lunch cart coming."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike winced, "Doctor Early, please tell me they are getting something good."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Joe smiled at the reaction. "Don't worry, Mike, Dixie took care of them this morning. It's not five-star dining, but it's better than the usual."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled, "Good, they deserve it."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Brent smiled, "Well, thank you."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike asked, "Hey Doc, do you know if the game is on TV tonight? Cameron was asking."/p
p class="MsoNormal""I believe it is."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Good deal," Cameron said with a smile. He became bashful when he looked at Joe. "Doctor Early, would you like to sign my cast?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Joe smiled, "I would love to Cameron. It's good to see you feeling better, my friend."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Trying," the young boy's voice was honest. "Not too good at the pain thing yet but trying."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank rubbed his shoulder. "I told you, buddy, just stay on top of it. You'll get there."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Joe added, "He's right, Cameron."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Becky asked, "I know the pain meds work, but can you give him anything with them?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Like what?" Joe's voice became serious./p
p class="MsoNormal""Something to help settle his stomach. He doesn't seem to be able to keep them down long enough to let them work."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Joe relaxed, "Now that we can do. I'll talk to his doctor and have them add something to his chart."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Thank you."/p
p class="MsoNormal""No problem." Joe turned back to Cameron and signed his cast. Mike walked over when he was done and signed it./p
p class="MsoNormal"Once the quiet man was done, he looked at Cameron. "Here you go, Cameron. This is for you," he said as he handed the boy the stuffed teddy bear./p
p class="MsoNormal"Cameron was shocked. "For me?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled, "Yep, for you, and you know what else?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""What?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""You get to keep my shirt. We're going to give one to your sister when you guys come visit after you get out of here."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Real…really?" Cameron started to tear up./p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank reached over and gently hugged the boy. It was obvious things were getting to him. "Really my friend."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Cameron clung to Hank until the lunch cart arrived. As the food was laid out, Hank gently pried himself out of the grasp. "Hey buddy, go ahead and eat. I want to give your sister a hug and then Mike and I are going to head out."/p
p class="MsoNormal""D…do you have to leave?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Yes, we do my friend. You need to spend time with your mommy, daddy, and sister, getting better. But you know something?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""What?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""I have some very special friends of mine that I am going to have come check on you guys when we go back to work so you know that we are still thinking of you."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Really?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""You betcha. Their names are Roy and Johnny."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Mister Bob told me about them last night. He said they are good friends of his too."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Joe smiled, "They are, Cameron. They all work together here to help people out."/p
p class="MsoNormal"As Joe was talking, Hank got up and walked over to Julie's bed. The young girl jumped into his arms and was rewarded with a gentle, warm hug./p
p class="MsoNormal"Julie whispered in Hank's ear, "Thank you for making my brother feel better."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled warmly, "You're welcome, sweetheart. Can you watch over him for me?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Of course."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Good."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank put the girl back in bed so she could eat her lunch. Mike walked over and gave her one more hug before he gave one to Cameron. Hank also gave the boy one more hug. Then the duo gave Becky hugs and shook Brent's hand. The parents were sharing tray tables with their kids for lunch. They would be in their own room for dinner./p
p class="MsoNormal"Joe smiled, "Well boys, what do you say we let these guys have lunch?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled, "Sounds good, Joe."/p
p class="MsoNormal"The trio left after a round of heartfelt good-byes and one more thank from each of the kids for their stuffed animals./p
p class="MsoNormal"KMG 365/p
p class="MsoNormal"Joe quietly led his friends out of the unit./p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank swallowed as the doors closed behind them. "That wasn't easy, but I'll be the first to admit I really needed that."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike gripped his shoulder. "I wasn't sure Cameron was going to let you go so we could go to the game."/p
p class="MsoNormal""I…I wasn't either," Hank admitted. "I'm just glad they are all doing so much better."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike swallowed, "So am I. That was one of the toughest scenes we've worked in a while and not just because we were in the middle of nowhere."/p
p class="MsoNormal""You got that right."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Joe, Hank, and Mike boarded a waiting elevator to head back to the emergency room. Once they were in the elevator, Joe pulled an envelope out of his shirt pocket. He handed it to Hank with a smile. "Here, boys, you definitely deserve these tonight."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike smiled, "You do realize this is going to be my first game there in person, right?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Joe was stunned. "No, I didn't know that, Mike."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Yeah, I've been a fan for years, but I've never been to the stadium."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Well, you boys have some excellent seats tonight. Enjoy them, and I speak from experience when I say, keep your gloves handy."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank grinned as he slid the tickets into his shirt pocket, "They're in the car, Joe."/p
p class="MsoNormal"The trio smiled at one another as the doors opened. Joe headed back to work while Mike and Hank turned and headed for the main entrance./p
p class="MsoNormal"KMG 365/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank let out a loud sigh of relief as they reached his car. It was a sound Mike echoed as they climbed inside the vehicle./p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike swallowed, "I needed that."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank swallowed, "So did I. Now I can actually relax and enjoy what's left of this weekend."/p
p class="MsoNormal""You and me both, Cap." Mike's eyes filled with excitement. "Next stop, the stadium?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank grinned, "That's my thought."/p
p class="MsoNormal"The driver backed out of his spot and headed for the street. As always, the men sharpened their eyes as he pulled into traffic. The surface streets were fairly clear, but the 110 was quite busy going north. A fact that surprised that neither man since it was a Saturday style="mso-spacerun: yes;" /span/p
p class="MsoNormal"As Hank pulled onto the busy highway, Mike turned and reached into the back seat. He was able to retrieve the camera he had put in with his stuff for that night. Then he turned back and once again locked his eyes on the road./p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank noticed the camera out of the corner of his eye. "I'm glad you brought it out now. Wait until you see the stadium in person. It'll take your breath away."/p
p class="MsoNormal""I don't doubt that." Mike smiled, "You know what's odd tonight, though?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""What's that?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Watching a game in person and not listening to Vin's call."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled, "This is true. He definitely has a memorable voice."/p
p class="MsoNormal""He certainly does. One that will wake you up when needed, but also gives you the chance to rest if the game is getting out of hand."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Exactly."/p
p class="MsoNormal""I…I can't thank you enough for this tonight, Hank." Mike's voice was thick./p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank reached over, without taking his eyes off the road, and clapped his friend on the shoulder. "It's my pleasure, pal. Between last night and the last month, I think it's fair to say we deserve to have some fun."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Very true."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike's voice suddenly faded as nearly twenty minutes into the drive; Dodger Stadium came into view. The normally calm man's jaw dropped open, and his eyes grew style="mso-spacerun: yes;" /spanHe started taking a few pictures, although he knew they would get better as they got closer to the stadium. Hank saw the reaction out of the corner of his eye and grinned. He loved watching his men relax and have some well-deserved fun./p
p class="MsoNormal"As expected, the traffic grew heavier, the closer they got to the stadium. It was nearly four, and the parking lot had just opened. Fans would be allowed in the stadium if they wanted to watch batting practice within the hour./p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank pulled up to a red light not far from the stadium. As Mike took some nice shots of the stadium; Hank pulled the envelope from his shirt pocket and opened it. He smiled when he saw the parking pass that joined the two-game tickets style="mso-spacerun: yes;" /span"Mike, remind me to make Joe his own full batch of chowder, not just one container."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Okay…" Mike's voice was full of curiosity as Hank pulled away after the light turned green./p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank answered the unasked question as he held the parking pass in his hand. "He gave us a parking pass for tonight too."/p
p class="MsoNormal""I'll throw in a batch of my spaghetti and meatballs to go with chowder for that."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank chuckled as he pulled up to the parking attendant. "That should definitely keep him fed for a while."/p
p class="MsoNormal"KMG 365/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank rolled down the window and smiled as he handed over the pass. The attendant, a young African American man, smiled at them. "Welcome to Dodgers Stadium gentlemen, enjoy the game tonight."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled, "Oh, we will, and thank you."/p
p class="MsoNormal"With that, he turned his attention back to the lot. It took a few minutes, but eventually, Hank found a spot. It was a good walk from the stadium, but nothing the duo couldn't handle./p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike chuckled when he saw the distance. "Let me guess this is your way of making sure neither of us has to order new pants anytime soon."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank laughed heartily as he put the car in park and shut the engine off. There was a twinkle in his eye as he said, "something like that."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike laughed as he reached back and retrieved their hats and gloves. Hank reached over his head and grabbed an ink pen from the sun visor. Mike looked at it questioningly. Hank grinned as the men got out of the car, "You think the kids are the only ones who want autographs during batting practice?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike chuckled, "I never even thought of that."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Before I lock up, do you have your camera and wallet? Do you want your jacket?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""I should be good without the jacket. I have my camera and the case with extra film and batteries." Mike replied as he put his hat on. My wallet is in my back left pocket, as usual."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Sounds good." Hank checked for his wallet, tossed his keys in his front left pocket, then put his hat on before picking up the gloves. He handed Mike's to him, and the duo set off the stadium. The walk was a good pace, but not too fast as they were in no hurry./p
p class="MsoNormal"Once they reached the sidewalk, Mike stepped to the side of the main traffic to take some close-up pictures of the stadium and everything surrounding it on the outside. Hank stepped to the side with him and took the envelope with the tickets out of his style="mso-spacerun: yes;" /spanHe waited patiently until Mike was done with the pictures./p
p class="MsoNormal"The younger man blushed slightly, "Sorry 'bout that. I guess I got a little carried away."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Don't be," Hank smiled broadly. "I did the same thing the first time I came here. You ready to go see what she looks like inside?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike grinned excitedly, "You know it." Hank handed him his ticket, and they headed for the gates. The ticket taker simply nodded as he handed the stubs back to the two men./p
p class="MsoNormal"KMG 365/p
p class="MsoNormal"Just inside the stadium, Hank stopped and bought both of them a program for the night. Then he turned to Mike and asked, "Do you want to shop first or go see the field?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Can we shop first? That way, we can settle in, and my poor camera can get a workout during batting practice."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Sure thing."/p
p class="MsoNormal"The guys headed for the team store. It was a good size store with an even bigger crowd. Thanks to the crowd and array of options, the trip took almost twenty minutes, but neither man cared. By the time they were done, both had some new ink pens. Hank also bought his wife a new shirt. They also chipped in and bought sets of baseball cards for themselves and the rest of the crew and a special baseball for Joe. It was going to be part of his thank you present for the tickets and parking pass./p
p class="MsoNormal"Loaded down with their goodies, the men headed for the seats. Hank smiled broadly as Mike let out a gasp when they first walked out of the tunnel and into the seats. "OOh my…Beyond the new Ward I…I don't know if I've ever seen anything so beautiful." The stunned man stammered out as he took multiple pictures of every part of the stadium./p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled. "I admit, they were not my team when I first moved out here, but that changed after a buddy of mine gave me game tickets a few months later. This is definitely one of the prettier parks I've ever been to."/p
p class="MsoNormal"The men shared a smile before they went in search of their seats. They were stunned to learn they had a clear sightline of the entire field. After getting more pictures, they joined a small crowd along the third baseline and waited for autographs and pictures./p
p class="MsoNormal"After gathering all the signatures, they could, the friends headed back to their seats to settle in for the night. Nearly five hours later, they left the stadium. Neither of them had much of a voice from screaming and cheering all through the game./p
p class="MsoNormal"The only time they were quiet was when they both stood at attention for the presentation of the colors. They were also semi-quiet between the fourth and fifth innings when they were eating dinner. Since their large breakfast had filled them, lunch was skipped. Dinner, however, was a couple of the infamous Dodger dogs with sodas and some of the world's sloppiest cheese fries./p
p class="MsoNormal"By the time the game was over, their beloved Dodgers had beat the visiting Detroit Dodgers 6-0. Neither man left their seats until the stadium was nearly empty. They followed the swell of the crowd back to their cars, cheering with and giving high fives to a few different fans on the way out. They also grabbed a much-needed drink for the ride back./p
p class="MsoNormal"KMG 365/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank unlocked the car, and both of them climbed inside. Reflexively, he locked the door again before he turned to Mike. They both had grins on their face that would match any kid on Christmas morning. "Did you have fun?" Hank squeaked./p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike squeaked, "That was the most fun I've ever had. To. Thank you."/p
p class="MsoNormal""My pleasure, my friend, and a nice catch on that foul ball in the third."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Thanks, Cap." Mike gazed at the ball he had snagged in a snap move before it hit the empty seat behind them. "I'm going to treasure this forever."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Good."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank opened his drink and took a long drink before he pulled into traffic. Both men stayed quiet as they blended into the sea of taillights. Their eyes were focused as the long snake of traffic wound its way out to the 110 heading south back toward home./p
p class="MsoNormal"The trip home was quiet as both men wanted to rest their throats knowing they had work in the morning./p
p class="MsoNormal"KMG 365/p
p class="MsoNormal"Thanks to traffic, it took nearly two hours to get home. It was almost midnight when Hank pulled back into his driveway. The tired men climbed out. Mike grabbed one of his uniforms along with his stuff from the game. His overnight bag was already in the living room from the laundry after the camping trip. Hank had his stuff from the game, which he slid to one hand as he opened the door./p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank asked, "Tea Mike?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Please," Mike responded as they walked inside. The visitor deposited his bags on the living room floor. The hanger with his clothes was carefully laid over a chair sitting in the corner of the comfortably decorated room. After putting his stuff down, Mike headed for the laundry room./p
p class="MsoNormal"Not wanting to rush in the morning, the still wired man gathered his laundry and put it in his bag. Then he joined Hank in the kitchen just as the tea kettle whistled. Hank poured tea for both men and brought it over to where Mike sat at the table. It was ready to drink minutes later./p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled, "Figured we could use this, so we have something of a voice tomorrow?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike chuckled, "True point. Although the cards should tell the boys where we went."/p
p class="MsoNormal""True." Hank took a sip of his tea and sighed./p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike took one and then raised his cup. "I propose a toast." Hank picked up his cup as Mike continued. "To changing plans and amazing days."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Here, here," Hank replied. His voice was slowly starting to sound normal again./p
p class="MsoNormal"The men enjoyed their tea quietly as they thought about the day's events. The day had seen them run through a range of emotions. It had started with focus and work, mixed in some needed relief and good news from Rampart, and saw them finish the day with almost no voice but a load of excitement./p
p class="MsoNormal"KMG 365/p
p class="MsoNormal"After the late-night warm drink, both men were tired. Hank made quick work of washing the mugs as Mike set up the coffee maker for the next morning./p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled, "Thanks, Mike."/p
p class="MsoNormal""You're welcome, Cap." Mike's voice was slowly sounding normal again./p
p class="MsoNormal"Both men yawned at the same time. Mike smiled, "Well, I was just about to say I am going to hit the sack, but…"/p
p class="MsoNormal""It's definitely bedtime for both of us. I usually get up at five-thirty, so I can get out of here by six."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Sounds good to me."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Since your uniforms are already in the car, we'll take my car tomorrow, and you can pick up ember after work, Tuesday morning."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike smiled, "Sounds good, Cap." He yawned again, "Good night."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled, "Good night, pal."/p
p class="MsoNormal"The duo left the kitchen. Mike headed for the living room to grab a t-shirt and his sweatpants for the night. Armed with his clothes, he headed for the small bathroom in the style="mso-spacerun: yes;" /spanAfter getting dressed and taking care of business, the tired man slowly made his way back to the couch. His game clothes were tossed into the bag. Then he grabbed the blanket that was over the back of the couch and laid down. The small couch size pillow was just enough. Exhaustion claimed him as he was asleep and snoring in just minutes./p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank headed for his bedroom. After making a trip to the bathroom, he got dressed for bed. He climbed into bed and was asleep nearly before his head hit the pillow./p
p class="MsoNormal"emQuick notes: I don't own anything that has to do with the Los Angeles Dodgers or Detroit Tigers. They belong to Major League Baseball. The Jersey Special and Town and Country breakfasts that the boys enjoyed were a nod to the diners of my home state. I've had the Belgian Waffle at the Town and Country diner in New Jersey. Yes, it is nap-inducing./em/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike and Hank slept right through the first light of dawn. The sun had risen just a few hours after their sleeping bags grabbed their attention. It was nearly 10 before either man woke up. Mike, because he had finally recharged. Hank because he had recharged and needed to answer nature's call./p
p class="MsoNormal"The duo changed in their tents and then emerged. Both of them had a serious case of bed head but looked more refreshed./p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike smiled, "Morning, Hank."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled, "Morning, Mike. How'd you sleep?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""I was out cold once I settled in. You?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""I was down for the count. I probably would have given Chet a run for his money the way I was snoring last night."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Both men laughed. Mike smiled, "You and me both."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Hey pal, I need to go use the bathroom. Then we can discuss the plans for the day."/p
p class="MsoNormal""I'm coming with you since we don't have a fire to worry about."/p
p class="MsoNormal"The duo headed off to the bathroom to clean up for the day. The walk was silent as both men shook the cobwebs from their brains. After tending to their morning business, they made the short walk back./p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike looked around. "This place is so beautiful, but…"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank finished the thought. "I think we've had our fun up here for the weekend. What do you say we spend tonight at my house? Maybe we can catch the Dodgers game and relax."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Sounds like a plan to me."/p
p class="MsoNormal""We can drop the food off at my place before we get your stuff and head for Rampart."/p
p class="MsoNormal""I know you want to go see Cameron and his family. I was going to ask when we were doing that."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank swallowed, "I'd like to as soon as we can."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Then let's get going. I saw a little diner just before that last traffic light yesterday. It looked good for breakfast today."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Sounds good to me." Hank's stomach rumbled. "I am kinda hungry this morning."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike smiled as his stomach rumbled. "So am I."/p
p class="MsoNormal"As they did the day before, the guys worked together to break camp. The extra water was dumped from the bucket into the fire ring. Even though they had drowned their fire from the night before, both men didn't want to take any chances. By 1030, they were completely packed and ready to go./p
p class="MsoNormal"The short drive back to the Ranger's station was done in silence./p
p class="MsoNormal"KMG 365/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank and Mike walked into the office. JB looked up. "Good morning, boys."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled, "Good morning JB."/p
p class="MsoNormal""What can I do for you?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike smiled, "As much as we like the campground, we've had our fill of fun for the weekend."/p
p class="MsoNormal"JB nodded as Mile slid the parking tag back across the desk. "After the fun we had this morning. I can't say I blame you."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled, "Thanks again for your help."/p
p class="MsoNormal""You're welcome."/p
p class="MsoNormal"JB and Mike settled the bill before the trio bid each other good-bye./p
p class="MsoNormal"KMG 365/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank and Mike headed out of the station and climbed back into Mike's truck. In just seconds, they were back on the road. The drive to the diner was filled with alternate bouts of yawning as both men worked to wake up without coffee./p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled, "I don't know what they have food-wise, but I really hope this place has good coffee."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike smiled and replied without taking his eyes off the road. "At this point, I'd take the sludge that Chet calls coffee."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Now that's saying something," Hank replied as he spotted the diner. "On the right about 200 yards up."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike carefully switched lanes and turned on his blinker. Unlike many of their fellow drivers, the duo actually knew the light was more than a blinking decoration. Mike looked up. His voice was full of curiosity when he spoke. "I wonder what a New Jersey-style diner means."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank grinned, "It means we're going to eat more for breakfast this morning than even Chet and Marco are going to eat this weekend."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike laughed, "Oh, really?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Oh yeah. One of the few things I miss from back east is the huge breakfasts from a Jersey diner."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike found a spot. "Now, this I've got to see." The two men chuckled as they climbed out of the truck and headed inside./p
p class="MsoNormal"An older man of Greek descent met them. Hank mouthed, 'This will be a good one,' to Mike as the older man spoke. "Good morning gentlemen, welcome to Kodos Jersey Style Diner."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank and Mike smiled, "Good morning."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Just the two of you this morning?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Yes." Hank smiled./p
p class="MsoNormal""Booth or table?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Either is fine."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Okay." The older man took a look around the bustling restaurant. He finally spotted an open table. "Follow me." The greeter led the men through the restaurant to the table. "Here you go, gentlemen, your server will be over shortly."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled," Thank you."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike sat on the right side of the table. Hank took the chair on the left. Both men were stunned to see something that resembled a small novel. Mike gasped, "Uh, is this the menu or a book."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank laughed, "Both."/p
p class="MsoNormal"The duo had just started searching the menu when a young gentleman walked up. "Good morning, gentlemen, my name is Ned. I will be your server this morning."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Good morning," Mike and Hank said at the same time./p
p class="MsoNormal""Can I start you off with something to drink?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Black coffee, please," Hank said./p
p class="MsoNormal""And you, Sir?" Ned turned to Mike./p
p class="MsoNormal""I'll have the same."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Okay, I'll be right back with your drinks."/p
p class="MsoNormal"The young server walked away as the men once again looked at their menus. Neither of them could decide until Ned returned./p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike asked, "Ned, I have a question."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Yes?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Do you recommend the bacon or sausage with the Jersey special."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Bacon."/p
p class="MsoNormal""That sounds good. I'll take the Jersey special with the bacon."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Yes, Sir, how would you like your eggs?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Over easy, please."/p
p class="MsoNormal""White or wheat toast?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""White, please."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Home fries or hash browns?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Hash browns."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Yes, Sir, and for you?" Ned looked at Hank./p
p class="MsoNormal""I'll take the town and county salute."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Ned smiled, "That's one of my favorites for breakfast. What would you like on your Belgian Waffle?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Strawberries and whip cream, please."/p
p class="MsoNormal""And your meat?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Can I have the pork roll? It's been a long time since I've had them."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Yes, Sir. Can I get you guys anything else?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""No thanks," Mike and Hank echoed./p
p class="MsoNormal"Ned smiled as he turned and left./p
p class="MsoNormal"KMG 365/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike looked at Hank. "Uh Cap, am I going to need to order new pants after this?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank chuckled. "I'm not going to lie, you very well might."/p
p class="MsoNormal""At least you're honest," Mike smirked as he tried the coffee. "Oh, my goodness, this is amazing."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank took a long drink. "It really is."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Their eyes started to brighten as the much-needed black gold hit their systems. Hank saw Mike rub his shoulder. "You good, Mike?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike smiled, "Good to go. Just stretching out the end of this morning."/p
p class="MsoNormal""I don't blame you." Hank shuddered, "I hope we don't have another wake-up call like that anytime soon."/p
p class="MsoNormal""You and me both."/p
p class="MsoNormal"The men went quiet as they listened to the hum of the diner. It was nice to wake up with people who weren't style="mso-spacerun: yes;" /spanNed returned after a little bit and quietly refilled their coffee. Both men nodded their thanks./p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank asked, "Hey Mike, have you ever been to Chavez Ravine?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""In person?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Yes."/p
p class="MsoNormal""No." Mike ducked his head slightly. "I've always wanted to go, but never had anybody to go with."/p
p class="MsoNormal""How about we see if we can get tickets for tonight? I think after this morning, we deserve to splurge a bit."/p
p class="MsoNormal""But…" Mike's voice dropped./p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank asked, "But what, my friend?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""A…are..aren't you supposed to take a glove to a game?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Yes. At least that's the tradition."/p
p class="MsoNormal""I…I don't have a glove." The quiet man's face turned pink with embarrassment./p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank made a mental note for this year's Christmas gift exchange. He would make sure he got Mike in the Secret Santa and rectify the glove situation. He smiled broadly as he put his hand on Mike's shoulder. "That's okay, my friend. I have an extra one you can borrow for tonight."/p
p class="MsoNormal""A... are you sure?" Mike stammered./p
p class="MsoNormal""I am." Hank smiled reassuringly./p
p class="MsoNormal""Well, then yes, I would love to go to the game tonight."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Excellent."/p
p class="MsoNormal"The conversation ended quickly as both men drained their coffee. Their jaws dropped slightly when Ned arrived with another young man. Both men were laden with overfilling trays. Ned laid out Mike's Vincentown special out. It was two eggs with bacon, toast, jelly, and hash browns on a plate the size of a small manhole cover. Ned's assistant laid out the waffle that took up the entire plate. Next to it was the plate of pork roll and a small wire container featuring three types of syrup./p
p class="MsoNormal"Ned asked, "Can I get you anything else, gentlemen?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""More coffee for both of us, please," Mike replied./p
p class="MsoNormal""Of course. Enjoy." Ned and his assistant walked away./p
p class="MsoNormal"KMG 365/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike took a moment and stared at the feast in front of him. Hank grinned and asked, "What's wrong, my friend?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike looked at his superior with a slightly embarrassed look, "I uh, I don't know where to start?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Well, you can do it the way they do it and go for a bit of everything or just pick a spot on the plate and work around it from there."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Hmm, I think I'll do it the way they do it."/p
p class="MsoNormal"The duo settled into their feasts as Ned returned and filled their coffee. Both men nodded their thanks. For the longest time, the only sound at the table was the sounds of style="mso-spacerun: yes;" /spanFinally, Hank hit a wall as he finished the oversized and overloaded waffle./p
p class="MsoNormal""Oh my, I forgot how big those things were." He squirmed slightly in his seat as he sat back./p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike smiled, "I'll have to try that the next time I'm in the area."/p
p class="MsoNormal""It's amazing but huge."/p
p class="MsoNormal""It looks at it."/p
p class="MsoNormal""How's your breakfast?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Amazing."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Good."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike spied Hank's yet to be touched pork roll. There were two slices on the plate. "What's that?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled, "Pork roll, you wanna try some?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Looks interesting. Would you mind?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Not at all." Hank handed over the plate. Mike used his fork to grab one slice before he returned the plate./p
p class="MsoNormal"Both men enjoyed their meal before they sat back with a satisfied smile. It was obvious they were glad the game was later that night as both were overstuffed./p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike covered a small hiccup before he said, "That was amazing."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled as he hiccupped. "It certainly was. Thanks for spotting this yesterday."/p
p class="MsoNormal""My pleasure. I am going to use the restroom."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Okay, I'll ask for the check."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Cap…"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Nope, you got the campsite. I'm getting our feast." Hank smiled, but the tone was clear. He was not taking Mike's money./p
p class="MsoNormal""Okay."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike got up and headed for the bathroom. Hank waved Ned over and requested the meal on one check. The young man returned moments later with the paper. After seeing the total, Hank left a twenty percent tip before getting up to pay the bill./p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike met him at the front door with a smile. "Thank you."/p
p class="MsoNormal""My pleasure." Hank smiled. "I'll be right back."/p
p class="MsoNormal""I'll meet you in the truck."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Okay."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank turned and headed for the bathroom while Mike walked out to the truck./p
p class="MsoNormal"KMG 365/p
p class="MsoNormal"The engineer climbed inside and sat back. A combination of food coma and fresh air soon saw him put his head back and close his eyes. Hank walked out of the diner a few minutes later and smiled as he spotted the sleeping man. He waited outside the truck for a few minutes before he double tapped the door./p
p class="MsoNormal"The sound woke Mike up. He smirked embarrassed at Hank as the older man climbed in the truck. "S... Sorry about that."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled, "Nothing to be sorry about. I know those meals are nap-inducing, and engineers can fall asleep anywhere."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike chuckled, "That we can. Quick question in case the food coma catches up to you."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Yes?" Hank's eyes were already getting heavy./p
p class="MsoNormal""Where to first?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Are you okay with what you are wearing for the game?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Sure."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Then how about my house first. We can put the rest of the food away, stretch for a bit, and then head out. We'll swing by your place on the way to Rampart before we go to the game."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Sounds good. Get some rest." Mike smiled, "Have a good nap."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike backed out of the parking spot and hit the road. Hank was asleep before the front tires found the road. The driver turned the radio on but kept it low to let the food coma claim his passenger. The drive was quiet except for the music and some light snoring from the overstuffed passenger./p
p class="MsoNormal"It was nearly an hour after they left the diner before Mike pulled into Hank's driveway. The sound of the engine shutting off woke the slumbering homeowner. Hank smiled sheepishly, "Sorry about that."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike smiled, "Don't be."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Both men climbed out of the truck. They grabbed their clothes and made quick work of unloading the cooler. Mike carried the cooler up to the door as Hank unlocked it. He continued into the kitchen after the door was opened./p
p class="MsoNormal"KMG 365/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank followed Mike into the kitchen. The duo made quick work of emptying the cooler. Once it was empty, Hank said, "Mike, give me your clothes."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Why?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Well, I know we want to stretch for a bit. I want to make sure your wet stuff from last night gets washed before it starts smelling."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Y…you sure, Cap?" Mike was genuinely surprised./p
p class="MsoNormal""Positive." Without a second thought, Mike handed over the bag with his wet stuff./p
p class="MsoNormal"As Hank headed for the laundry room, Mike walked back outside. He picked up the footlocker and carried that with Hank's tent into the house and then into the garage. After he put the stuff away, he turned and headed back inside./p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike and Hank met up in the living style="mso-spacerun: yes;" /spanIt was nearly noon. Hank said, "I put your clothes on a quick wash. They'll be done in about forty minutes."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Okay."/p
p class="MsoNormal"The duo settled in for some television. After a quick show went off, they took turns getting much-needed showers. By the time Mike was done, the laundry was done. His beloved Dodgers shirt was thrown into the dryer before anything else./p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled as he saw his friend walking around in jeans, warm socks, and shoes. "Your shirt should be done in a few. I put it on the quick-dry cycle. We can take of the rest after we get back tonight."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Sounds good."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Come here while we wait for your shirt."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Okay."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike followed Hank into his small office. It was decorated with a mix of pictures from his career and traveled as a Brat. Hank opened the small closet and grabbed two baseball mitts. He handed both to Mike. "See which one fits better."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike was stunned. Both mitts were a rich brown color with a baseball tied in each to help keep its shape. He tried both on and found that the first one fit just a bit better. "D…do you mind if I use this one tonight?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled, "Not at all."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Thank you." Mike handed the other glove back to Hank./p
p class="MsoNormal"KMG 365/p
p class="MsoNormal"The duo turned and left the room. The dryer buzzed as they passed the laundry room. Hank stopped and grabbed the shirt. He handed it to Mike, before the rest of their camp clothes, went in the dryer./p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike slid the warm shirt on and smiled. "Thanks, Cap, this feels great."/p
p class="MsoNormal""You're welcome pal, are you ready to go?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Yep. You?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Let's get after it."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank was also wearing a Dodgers shirt. He grabbed his wallet and keys as well as a Dodgers hat on the way out the door. Mike followed him, carrying both gloves./p
p class="MsoNormal"KMG 365/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank turned and locked the doors. "How about we take my car tonight?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike smiled, "Okay."/p
p class="MsoNormal"The duo walked over and climbed in the sedan. Hank backed up and headed for Mike's place. The drive went smoothly as traffic was relatively light for a weekend day./p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike smiled as Hank shut the engine off. "I'll be right back, Cap."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Take your time. I'm not in any hurry."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike nodded as he grabbed his keys and climbed out of the truck. He jogged over to the front door and opened it. Once inside, he made quick work of grabbing his uniforms and camera. He also found his hat for the game. Then he made a quick stop in the bathroom before he headed back out, making sure to close and lock the door behind him. He opened the door and put the uniforms right behind Hank to leave the rear window clear./p
p class="MsoNormal"Once the uniforms were hung up, Mike climbed back in the front passenger seat. Hank asked, "Ready to go?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Yes."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Next stop, Rampart."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Both men kept a sharp on the road as they made the fifteen-minute drive to the hospital. Hank found a spot in the main lot./p
p class="MsoNormal"KMG 365/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank swallowed, "You know these trips never get any easier, whether I am visiting one of you guys or another friend.."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike clapped his friend on the back. "I know, Cap, let's go see them."/p
p class="MsoNormal"The duo nervously climbed from the car and headed for the massive hospital. They made a quick stop at the gift shop where they bought teddy bears for Julie and Cameron. Teddy bears in hand; they headed for the one place they knew they could find information, the nurse's station in the emergency room. Head nurse Dixie McCall looked up at the sound of the approaching footsteps. She was stunned to see her friends. "Hi Mike, hi, Hank."/p
p class="MsoNormal" /p
p class="MsoNormal""Hi, Miss. McCall," Hank smiled./p
p class="MsoNormal""What can I do for you two? Aren't you off today?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""We are. We came by to visit some friends we made last night before we head to the game. We were kind of hoping you could help us find them."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Oh?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike asked, "Were you here when the Timberland victims came in?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Dixie swallowed as the memory of the victims from the early morning incident ran through her mind. "I was. Kel took care of the kids while Joe took care of the parents. Morton's been out with that wicked bug going around, so Taylor took care of the two nimrods from the car. They were released to the police after a few hours. Doctor Jackson admitted all of them to the burn ward."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank couldn't hide the nerves that crept into his voice. "C...can we see them?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""I don't see why not. Do you want me to take you up there?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""If you want or…"/p
p class="MsoNormal"At that moment, Dr. Joe Early walked by. "Hi, Hank, hi Mike. Where are you heading to?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Dixie answered for her friends. "They want to go see the Timberland crew from last night the Albertsons."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Joe smiled, "I was heading upstairs anyway to check in on a few things since I have to work for Mike today. I can take them."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Would you mind, Joe?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Not at all. Come on, guys."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Thanks, Joe. See you later, guys."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike and Hank walked away with Joe. The trio headed for the elevator. Joe asked, "Out of curiosity, boys, what brings you to see them?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank replied, "We were the ones who took care of them at the campground."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Joe nodded in understanding. "I was wondering where the department t-shirt came from."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled, "My gym bag." His voice grew serious, "We needed it to help Cameron out while Bob Bellingham splinted his ankle. He bit down on it while I held him still."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Joe heard the tone. "He's okay, Hank. I promise. Kel worked with an ortho to get him cleaned up and casted. He didn't need surgery, just a lot of TLC."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike asked, "How are his parents and his sister Julie?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""When I checked on them this morning, they were all stable and hanging in there."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike and Hank both let out a sigh of relief neither of them realized they had been holding./p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank asked, "Did I hear you say something about having to work for Mike?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Joe winced, "Yeah, Morton called out with that stomach bug that's going around, so I have to work for him tonight. It's a bummer too because my friend and I had tickets to the Dodgers-Tigers game tonight. Then he got sick too."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank grinned, "Hey Doc, by chance do you have those tickets on you?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""They're in my locker. Why?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""What if Mike and I take them off your hands? We were going to try and get tickets for tonight. Kind of treat us after the early morning wake up call."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Joe smiled as the elevator reached their floor. "On one condition, Hank."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Yes?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""I'll trade you the tickets for some of your clam chowder."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank grinned, "Deal."/p
p class="MsoNormal"The three men shook hands as they walked up to the door leading to the burn unit./p
p class="MsoNormal"KMG 365/p
p class="MsoNormal"When Mike and Hank realized where they were, they immediately grew serious. They had their game faces on. This was not going to be easy on either one of them./p
p class="MsoNormal"Joe noticed the change in their demeanor and said calmly, "I'll take you to their rooms. I promise they really are okay. The parents have some burns on their arms and chest we are watching for the day. The sister's burns are doing okay. Cameron's burns were bothering him this morning, but I think a visit from his favorite fire captain may fix that."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Joe led the trio into the burn ward and slowly made their way down the snake of rooms until they found the two side by side units. One housed Brent and Becky. The other one housed Julie and style="mso-spacerun: yes;" /spanA quick peek into the parents' room revealed they weren't there./p
p class="MsoNormal"Joe knocked on the semi-closed door of the kids' room. "Come in" Brent called out./p
p class="MsoNormal"Joe opened the door and poked his head in. "Good afternoon all."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Brent smiled, "Good afternoon Doctor Early. How are you?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Doing well. I brought you a couple of visitors. Are you guys up to them?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Becky was surprised, "O…okay."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Joe opened the door wider and held it for Hank and Mike. He smiled as it closed behind the newest visitors. Julie jumped out of bed and ran for Mike. "Mister Mike!"/p
p class="MsoNormal"The taller man picked her up carefully and smiled softly. "I see someone is feeling a lot better."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Brent stood and shook Hank's hand. "We all are thanks to you guys."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled and spoke softly, seeing that Cameron was dozing. "We're just glad you guys are okay."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Brent pulled the captain into a manly hug. It broke only a minute later so that Becky could also hug Hank. Mike waited until they broke apart before he smiled at Julie. "Here, honey, this is for you," he said as he handed Julie one of the stuffed animals./p
p class="MsoNormal"Julie was surprised. "For me?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Yep. A little something to help you feel better. We have one for your brother too."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Julie's voice turned a bit sad. "Cam hasn't felt too good today. He keeps crying out, but they said they could only give him so much medicine."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike hugged the girl a little tighter. "He'll feel better soon, sweetie. Especially with a sister like you by his side."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank looked over at the young boy lying in bed. "Brent, Becky, do you mind?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Brent smiled softly, "No. I think you might be what he needs for a bit."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank walked over to the bed quietly. A skill he had mastered while visiting his own crew several times at style="mso-spacerun: yes;" /spanHe sat down in the chair and gently laid a hand on Cameron's arm. He brushed his arm gently as he said, "Hi Cameron, it's Captain Hank."/p
p class="MsoNormal"The sound of the Captain's voice made the young boy open his eyes. "C…Captain Stanley." Cameron's voice was a mix of surprise and sleep./p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled, "Yeah, buddy, it's me. I came by to see how you're feeling." Cameron reached out for a hug. Careful of the young man's bandages, Hank returned the hug. "I'm right here, my friend."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Not dreaming?" Cameron asked as he woke up more./p
p class="MsoNormal""No, buddy, you're not dreaming. Although your sister says, you've had a rough time."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Medicine makes me sick, and my leg hurts. Otherwise, my burns are okay. They just want to keep putting some kinda stuff on 'em."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank winced at the medicine comment. He had watched his men, especially Johnny, suffer from the same fate several times. "Oh buddy, I'm sorry the medicine makes you sick, but you have to stay ahead of the pain in your ankle."/p
p class="MsoNormal""That's what mom and dad say too, but I…" Cameron took a breath. "Between being scared and everything, it's hard."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank shifted the young boy in his arms so Cameron could rest his head against his chest. "I know, buddy, but you are a strong and brave young boy. You know that's why I gave you my Captain's t-shirt last night. You were so brave."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Julie added a bit down; she didn't get a shirt. "So was I."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank looked up and smiled, "Yes, you were sweetheart. I promise when you guys get out of here, if you come to my fire station, I will have your shirt too. I would have brought one for you now, but they are at the firehouse."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Y…you will?" Julie's voice was full of surprise./p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled, "I will."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Julie scampered out of Mike's arms and walked over. She hugged Hank, careful not to jar him since he still had her brother in his arms. Hank smiled. "I'll give you a proper hug in a minute, okay, honey?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Okay." Julie smiled as she climbed back in bed./p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank turned his attention back to Cameron. "Hey buddy, has anybody signed your cast yet?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Cameron smiled, more awake than he had been in hours. "Just mommy, daddy, and Julie."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Can Mike and I sign it?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Yes!" The young boy replied excitedly. His response brought a chuckle from the adults. Hank carefully propped Cameron up in his bed. He reached over and picked up the permanent marker that had been left on his tray table./p
p class="MsoNormal""Mike, do you want to sign first?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike smiled, "No, Cap. You go ahead. I'll sign it when I bring his stuffed animal over."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled, "Okay." He leaned down and drew a little fire ax before he wrote Get Well Soon, My Friend. Stay Strong. You Are in My Thoughts. Your Friend Captain Hank Stanley span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI Emoji',sans-serif; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol-ext; mso-symbol-font-family: 'Segoe UI Emoji';"😊/span/p
p class="MsoNormal"Cameron looked down and read the message after Hank stood up. His eyes teared up. "Th…thank you."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled warmly as he hugged the boy again. "You're welcome, my friend."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Cameron snuggled in for a minute before he relaxed. He noticed the shirts that Hank and Mike had on and asked, "You wouldn't know by chance know if the Dodgers are on TV tonight, would you?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Before Hank could reply, there was a knock at the door. Mike called out, "Come in."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Joe opened the door and walked in with a smile. "Hi guys, I just saw the lunch cart coming."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike winced, "Doctor Early, please tell me they are getting something good."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Joe smiled at the reaction. "Don't worry, Mike, Dixie took care of them this morning. It's not five-star dining, but it's better than the usual."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled, "Good, they deserve it."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Brent smiled, "Well, thank you."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike asked, "Hey Doc, do you know if the game is on TV tonight? Cameron was asking."/p
p class="MsoNormal""I believe it is."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Good deal," Cameron said with a smile. He became bashful when he looked at Joe. "Doctor Early, would you like to sign my cast?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Joe smiled, "I would love to Cameron. It's good to see you feeling better, my friend."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Trying," the young boy's voice was honest. "Not too good at the pain thing yet but trying."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank rubbed his shoulder. "I told you, buddy, just stay on top of it. You'll get there."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Joe added, "He's right, Cameron."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Becky asked, "I know the pain meds work, but can you give him anything with them?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Like what?" Joe's voice became serious./p
p class="MsoNormal""Something to help settle his stomach. He doesn't seem to be able to keep them down long enough to let them work."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Joe relaxed, "Now that we can do. I'll talk to his doctor and have them add something to his chart."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Thank you."/p
p class="MsoNormal""No problem." Joe turned back to Cameron and signed his cast. Mike walked over when he was done and signed it./p
p class="MsoNormal"Once the quiet man was done, he looked at Cameron. "Here you go, Cameron. This is for you," he said as he handed the boy the stuffed teddy bear./p
p class="MsoNormal"Cameron was shocked. "For me?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled, "Yep, for you, and you know what else?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""What?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""You get to keep my shirt. We're going to give one to your sister when you guys come visit after you get out of here."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Real…really?" Cameron started to tear up./p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank reached over and gently hugged the boy. It was obvious things were getting to him. "Really my friend."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Cameron clung to Hank until the lunch cart arrived. As the food was laid out, Hank gently pried himself out of the grasp. "Hey buddy, go ahead and eat. I want to give your sister a hug and then Mike and I are going to head out."/p
p class="MsoNormal""D…do you have to leave?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Yes, we do my friend. You need to spend time with your mommy, daddy, and sister, getting better. But you know something?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""What?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""I have some very special friends of mine that I am going to have come check on you guys when we go back to work so you know that we are still thinking of you."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Really?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""You betcha. Their names are Roy and Johnny."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Mister Bob told me about them last night. He said they are good friends of his too."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Joe smiled, "They are, Cameron. They all work together here to help people out."/p
p class="MsoNormal"As Joe was talking, Hank got up and walked over to Julie's bed. The young girl jumped into his arms and was rewarded with a gentle, warm hug./p
p class="MsoNormal"Julie whispered in Hank's ear, "Thank you for making my brother feel better."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled warmly, "You're welcome, sweetheart. Can you watch over him for me?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Of course."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Good."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank put the girl back in bed so she could eat her lunch. Mike walked over and gave her one more hug before he gave one to Cameron. Hank also gave the boy one more hug. Then the duo gave Becky hugs and shook Brent's hand. The parents were sharing tray tables with their kids for lunch. They would be in their own room for dinner./p
p class="MsoNormal"Joe smiled, "Well boys, what do you say we let these guys have lunch?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled, "Sounds good, Joe."/p
p class="MsoNormal"The trio left after a round of heartfelt good-byes and one more thank from each of the kids for their stuffed animals./p
p class="MsoNormal"KMG 365/p
p class="MsoNormal"Joe quietly led his friends out of the unit./p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank swallowed as the doors closed behind them. "That wasn't easy, but I'll be the first to admit I really needed that."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike gripped his shoulder. "I wasn't sure Cameron was going to let you go so we could go to the game."/p
p class="MsoNormal""I…I wasn't either," Hank admitted. "I'm just glad they are all doing so much better."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike swallowed, "So am I. That was one of the toughest scenes we've worked in a while and not just because we were in the middle of nowhere."/p
p class="MsoNormal""You got that right."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Joe, Hank, and Mike boarded a waiting elevator to head back to the emergency room. Once they were in the elevator, Joe pulled an envelope out of his shirt pocket. He handed it to Hank with a smile. "Here, boys, you definitely deserve these tonight."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike smiled, "You do realize this is going to be my first game there in person, right?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Joe was stunned. "No, I didn't know that, Mike."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Yeah, I've been a fan for years, but I've never been to the stadium."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Well, you boys have some excellent seats tonight. Enjoy them, and I speak from experience when I say, keep your gloves handy."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank grinned as he slid the tickets into his shirt pocket, "They're in the car, Joe."/p
p class="MsoNormal"The trio smiled at one another as the doors opened. Joe headed back to work while Mike and Hank turned and headed for the main entrance./p
p class="MsoNormal"KMG 365/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank let out a loud sigh of relief as they reached his car. It was a sound Mike echoed as they climbed inside the vehicle./p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike swallowed, "I needed that."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank swallowed, "So did I. Now I can actually relax and enjoy what's left of this weekend."/p
p class="MsoNormal""You and me both, Cap." Mike's eyes filled with excitement. "Next stop, the stadium?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank grinned, "That's my thought."/p
p class="MsoNormal"The driver backed out of his spot and headed for the street. As always, the men sharpened their eyes as he pulled into traffic. The surface streets were fairly clear, but the 110 was quite busy going north. A fact that surprised that neither man since it was a Saturday style="mso-spacerun: yes;" /span/p
p class="MsoNormal"As Hank pulled onto the busy highway, Mike turned and reached into the back seat. He was able to retrieve the camera he had put in with his stuff for that night. Then he turned back and once again locked his eyes on the road./p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank noticed the camera out of the corner of his eye. "I'm glad you brought it out now. Wait until you see the stadium in person. It'll take your breath away."/p
p class="MsoNormal""I don't doubt that." Mike smiled, "You know what's odd tonight, though?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""What's that?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Watching a game in person and not listening to Vin's call."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled, "This is true. He definitely has a memorable voice."/p
p class="MsoNormal""He certainly does. One that will wake you up when needed, but also gives you the chance to rest if the game is getting out of hand."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Exactly."/p
p class="MsoNormal""I…I can't thank you enough for this tonight, Hank." Mike's voice was thick./p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank reached over, without taking his eyes off the road, and clapped his friend on the shoulder. "It's my pleasure, pal. Between last night and the last month, I think it's fair to say we deserve to have some fun."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Very true."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike's voice suddenly faded as nearly twenty minutes into the drive; Dodger Stadium came into view. The normally calm man's jaw dropped open, and his eyes grew style="mso-spacerun: yes;" /spanHe started taking a few pictures, although he knew they would get better as they got closer to the stadium. Hank saw the reaction out of the corner of his eye and grinned. He loved watching his men relax and have some well-deserved fun./p
p class="MsoNormal"As expected, the traffic grew heavier, the closer they got to the stadium. It was nearly four, and the parking lot had just opened. Fans would be allowed in the stadium if they wanted to watch batting practice within the hour./p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank pulled up to a red light not far from the stadium. As Mike took some nice shots of the stadium; Hank pulled the envelope from his shirt pocket and opened it. He smiled when he saw the parking pass that joined the two-game tickets style="mso-spacerun: yes;" /span"Mike, remind me to make Joe his own full batch of chowder, not just one container."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Okay…" Mike's voice was full of curiosity as Hank pulled away after the light turned green./p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank answered the unasked question as he held the parking pass in his hand. "He gave us a parking pass for tonight too."/p
p class="MsoNormal""I'll throw in a batch of my spaghetti and meatballs to go with chowder for that."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank chuckled as he pulled up to the parking attendant. "That should definitely keep him fed for a while."/p
p class="MsoNormal"KMG 365/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank rolled down the window and smiled as he handed over the pass. The attendant, a young African American man, smiled at them. "Welcome to Dodgers Stadium gentlemen, enjoy the game tonight."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled, "Oh, we will, and thank you."/p
p class="MsoNormal"With that, he turned his attention back to the lot. It took a few minutes, but eventually, Hank found a spot. It was a good walk from the stadium, but nothing the duo couldn't handle./p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike chuckled when he saw the distance. "Let me guess this is your way of making sure neither of us has to order new pants anytime soon."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank laughed heartily as he put the car in park and shut the engine off. There was a twinkle in his eye as he said, "something like that."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike laughed as he reached back and retrieved their hats and gloves. Hank reached over his head and grabbed an ink pen from the sun visor. Mike looked at it questioningly. Hank grinned as the men got out of the car, "You think the kids are the only ones who want autographs during batting practice?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike chuckled, "I never even thought of that."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Before I lock up, do you have your camera and wallet? Do you want your jacket?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""I should be good without the jacket. I have my camera and the case with extra film and batteries." Mike replied as he put his hat on. My wallet is in my back left pocket, as usual."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Sounds good." Hank checked for his wallet, tossed his keys in his front left pocket, then put his hat on before picking up the gloves. He handed Mike's to him, and the duo set off the stadium. The walk was a good pace, but not too fast as they were in no hurry./p
p class="MsoNormal"Once they reached the sidewalk, Mike stepped to the side of the main traffic to take some close-up pictures of the stadium and everything surrounding it on the outside. Hank stepped to the side with him and took the envelope with the tickets out of his style="mso-spacerun: yes;" /spanHe waited patiently until Mike was done with the pictures./p
p class="MsoNormal"The younger man blushed slightly, "Sorry 'bout that. I guess I got a little carried away."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Don't be," Hank smiled broadly. "I did the same thing the first time I came here. You ready to go see what she looks like inside?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike grinned excitedly, "You know it." Hank handed him his ticket, and they headed for the gates. The ticket taker simply nodded as he handed the stubs back to the two men./p
p class="MsoNormal"KMG 365/p
p class="MsoNormal"Just inside the stadium, Hank stopped and bought both of them a program for the night. Then he turned to Mike and asked, "Do you want to shop first or go see the field?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Can we shop first? That way, we can settle in, and my poor camera can get a workout during batting practice."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Sure thing."/p
p class="MsoNormal"The guys headed for the team store. It was a good size store with an even bigger crowd. Thanks to the crowd and array of options, the trip took almost twenty minutes, but neither man cared. By the time they were done, both had some new ink pens. Hank also bought his wife a new shirt. They also chipped in and bought sets of baseball cards for themselves and the rest of the crew and a special baseball for Joe. It was going to be part of his thank you present for the tickets and parking pass./p
p class="MsoNormal"Loaded down with their goodies, the men headed for the seats. Hank smiled broadly as Mike let out a gasp when they first walked out of the tunnel and into the seats. "OOh my…Beyond the new Ward I…I don't know if I've ever seen anything so beautiful." The stunned man stammered out as he took multiple pictures of every part of the stadium./p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled. "I admit, they were not my team when I first moved out here, but that changed after a buddy of mine gave me game tickets a few months later. This is definitely one of the prettier parks I've ever been to."/p
p class="MsoNormal"The men shared a smile before they went in search of their seats. They were stunned to learn they had a clear sightline of the entire field. After getting more pictures, they joined a small crowd along the third baseline and waited for autographs and pictures./p
p class="MsoNormal"After gathering all the signatures, they could, the friends headed back to their seats to settle in for the night. Nearly five hours later, they left the stadium. Neither of them had much of a voice from screaming and cheering all through the game./p
p class="MsoNormal"The only time they were quiet was when they both stood at attention for the presentation of the colors. They were also semi-quiet between the fourth and fifth innings when they were eating dinner. Since their large breakfast had filled them, lunch was skipped. Dinner, however, was a couple of the infamous Dodger dogs with sodas and some of the world's sloppiest cheese fries./p
p class="MsoNormal"By the time the game was over, their beloved Dodgers had beat the visiting Detroit Dodgers 6-0. Neither man left their seats until the stadium was nearly empty. They followed the swell of the crowd back to their cars, cheering with and giving high fives to a few different fans on the way out. They also grabbed a much-needed drink for the ride back./p
p class="MsoNormal"KMG 365/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank unlocked the car, and both of them climbed inside. Reflexively, he locked the door again before he turned to Mike. They both had grins on their face that would match any kid on Christmas morning. "Did you have fun?" Hank squeaked./p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike squeaked, "That was the most fun I've ever had. To. Thank you."/p
p class="MsoNormal""My pleasure, my friend, and a nice catch on that foul ball in the third."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Thanks, Cap." Mike gazed at the ball he had snagged in a snap move before it hit the empty seat behind them. "I'm going to treasure this forever."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Good."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank opened his drink and took a long drink before he pulled into traffic. Both men stayed quiet as they blended into the sea of taillights. Their eyes were focused as the long snake of traffic wound its way out to the 110 heading south back toward home./p
p class="MsoNormal"The trip home was quiet as both men wanted to rest their throats knowing they had work in the morning./p
p class="MsoNormal"KMG 365/p
p class="MsoNormal"Thanks to traffic, it took nearly two hours to get home. It was almost midnight when Hank pulled back into his driveway. The tired men climbed out. Mike grabbed one of his uniforms along with his stuff from the game. His overnight bag was already in the living room from the laundry after the camping trip. Hank had his stuff from the game, which he slid to one hand as he opened the door./p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank asked, "Tea Mike?"/p
p class="MsoNormal""Please," Mike responded as they walked inside. The visitor deposited his bags on the living room floor. The hanger with his clothes was carefully laid over a chair sitting in the corner of the comfortably decorated room. After putting his stuff down, Mike headed for the laundry room./p
p class="MsoNormal"Not wanting to rush in the morning, the still wired man gathered his laundry and put it in his bag. Then he joined Hank in the kitchen just as the tea kettle whistled. Hank poured tea for both men and brought it over to where Mike sat at the table. It was ready to drink minutes later./p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled, "Figured we could use this, so we have something of a voice tomorrow?"/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike chuckled, "True point. Although the cards should tell the boys where we went."/p
p class="MsoNormal""True." Hank took a sip of his tea and sighed./p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike took one and then raised his cup. "I propose a toast." Hank picked up his cup as Mike continued. "To changing plans and amazing days."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Here, here," Hank replied. His voice was slowly starting to sound normal again./p
p class="MsoNormal"The men enjoyed their tea quietly as they thought about the day's events. The day had seen them run through a range of emotions. It had started with focus and work, mixed in some needed relief and good news from Rampart, and saw them finish the day with almost no voice but a load of excitement./p
p class="MsoNormal"KMG 365/p
p class="MsoNormal"After the late-night warm drink, both men were tired. Hank made quick work of washing the mugs as Mike set up the coffee maker for the next morning./p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled, "Thanks, Mike."/p
p class="MsoNormal""You're welcome, Cap." Mike's voice was slowly sounding normal again./p
p class="MsoNormal"Both men yawned at the same time. Mike smiled, "Well, I was just about to say I am going to hit the sack, but…"/p
p class="MsoNormal""It's definitely bedtime for both of us. I usually get up at five-thirty, so I can get out of here by six."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Sounds good to me."/p
p class="MsoNormal""Since your uniforms are already in the car, we'll take my car tomorrow, and you can pick up ember after work, Tuesday morning."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Mike smiled, "Sounds good, Cap." He yawned again, "Good night."/p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank smiled, "Good night, pal."/p
p class="MsoNormal"The duo left the kitchen. Mike headed for the living room to grab a t-shirt and his sweatpants for the night. Armed with his clothes, he headed for the small bathroom in the style="mso-spacerun: yes;" /spanAfter getting dressed and taking care of business, the tired man slowly made his way back to the couch. His game clothes were tossed into the bag. Then he grabbed the blanket that was over the back of the couch and laid down. The small couch size pillow was just enough. Exhaustion claimed him as he was asleep and snoring in just minutes./p
p class="MsoNormal"Hank headed for his bedroom. After making a trip to the bathroom, he got dressed for bed. He climbed into bed and was asleep nearly before his head hit the pillow./p
p class="MsoNormal"emQuick notes: I don't own anything that has to do with the Los Angeles Dodgers or Detroit Tigers. They belong to Major League Baseball. The Jersey Special and Town and Country breakfasts that the boys enjoyed were a nod to the diners of my home state. I've had the Belgian Waffle at the Town and Country diner in New Jersey. Yes, it is nap-inducing./em/p