Sorry this took so long. I have had a mad schedule recently and it's not going to get any better any time soon. I will update as and when I can. Anything is italics is Dylan's thoughts as I felt the need to narrate as well. As always please review, it's very much appreciated.
Dylan sat all alone on his houseboat. He had known that this would be the case as soon as Zoe had given him the day off. He took if not to do actually do anything, but to collect his thoughts. He wanted to know what was going on between himself and his wife, and being honest with himself he could not stop thinking about her.
I have not had a day off in ages. And yes, maybe I didn't want it at first but the idea had grown on me. Zoe had provided me with several reasons as to why she thought I needed a day off, she had come to know me quite well recently, but nobody knew the real reason why I had been so tired of late.
As much I hate to admit it, I am really missing Samantha, my Samantha. I know I have treated her badly, the day of the ED fire being a good case in point. I didn't realise until it was too late and the damage had already been done, but everything she was doing that day she did because she cares about me, and I still care about her too. I loved her. I still do.
Samantha is the most beautiful woman in the world and there was never anybody else but her. I never understood why she chose me; she is way out of my league. She isn't perfect. But is anybody? She certainly comes close and of course I was happy when we were married she is the best thing that has ever happened to me. I should have told her that more often I'm not sure she knew. I only regret one thing: I wish I could have given her a child. Maybe then she would have left the army and this whole situation could have been avoided. I do blame myself for what happened, I should have realised she was struggling and I should have been the one comforting her. I can't blame her for finding someone else to feel that with.
'Why did you go and make such a mess of things?' I suddenly realised that I was now expressing my feelings out loud.
Just as Dylan had realised this there was a loud ringing. He reluctantly stood up to answer the phone, wondering who on earth would be phoning him. The only person who would ever need to phone him was Sam and not even she bothered any more.
"Hello" he answered with a sigh
"I'm really sorry but Dylan I need you to come into work"
"Why? Who is this?" He assumed it must be one of the nurses he had never bothered to learn the names of.
"Its Zoe" She sounded frustrated that he had not recognised her voice. "Nick has had to go to a conference last minute and we are short staffed" she finished.
"And you expect me to do what about that?"
"Stop being agitating Dylan I just need you to come in and help out"
"Well I don't suppose I have a choice then"
"No. Be in as soon as you can please" Zoe was waiting for a reply before she realised that he had obviously hung up.
"No wonder he has no friends" she turned to Linda who let out a small laugh.
Dylan took his time getting ready but despite his initial reluctance he knew that Zoe would only call if they really needed him.
My only day off and what happens? Nick Jordan does as he bloody well pleases that's what. How am I going to explain this to Samantha? Zoe is just getting in the way. I'm going to just have to avoid her. I've never been good at expressing my feelings.
Still stuck in his thoughts Dylan started up the car and headed for the hospital. The traffic was minimal; thank goodness after having taken so long to get ready he needed to make up time somewhere. Dylan parked his car as close to the doors as possible and headed into the bustling ED. Noel had informed Dylan that everyone was already gathered in the staff room. He stood in the doorway, already knowing what Zoë was going to say. Dylan was lost in his thoughts once more after seeing his wife standing on the other side of the room.
She looks unhappy to see me. What could I have done to upset her this time?
Zoe walked in and she immediately approached Dylan 'Thank you for coming in at such short notice Dylan'
'No problem, it's not as if I would be doing anything else anyway' he muttered while making his typical half smile.
Zoe nodded in response before letting out a loud cough and addressing the remainder of the staff.
'As some of you may be aware Nick is at a conference today' she began. 'He did not find out until last night that it was essential he attended. In Mr. Jordan's absence I will be taking on his role a clinical lead. I would like you Tom to come into resus with me, along with Tess Lloyd. Lenny you will be in charge of cubicles with Charlie, Scarlett and Linda. That leaves Dylan and Sam to look after the patients in CDU. Thanks everyone'
Great, I now have to endure a whole day with Samantha.
Dylan was unsure of how he really felt and although he tried to convince himself he wanted to stay away from his wife, it was not the case. They needed to sort this mess out and sooner rather than later.