Disclaimer: The Thunderbirds belong to other people. And the line from the 3 Doors Down song "Landing in London" that is quoted belongs to the band and is off their CD "Seventeen Days"

I'll use your light to guide the way.

-3 Doors Down "Landing in London"

Chapter Nine: Recovery

The next few days had Virgil recovering from his physical wound nicely. And he took John's advice, he left the mental and emotional recovery for when his body was stronger and they were home. It was a nice feeling, knowing that he would be going home.

And once he was home, his family wasn't leaving him alone. And he wasn't bothered by that at all. In fact, it helped his emotional recovery. Virgil had been awake for a week and home for a day when he and John had their talk. Jeff knew that John and Virgil had a lot to talk about, so he left them alone that afternoon in Virgil's bedroom. Scott, Gordon and Alan were all given strict instructions not to disturb them at all.

"John, I really am so sorry…" Virgil began.

"Don't be," John interrupted. "One thing I've come to realize is that The Hood is extremely powerful. Now, I know we don't know what happened when you were missing, but we know something did happen. Maybe one day you'll tell us."

"I'll tell you all later," Virgil said. "Soon."

John nodded, then continued. "But I do know you. The person who stood in front of me and pulled the trigger wasn't you."

"But…"

"Just listen, please. Virgil, you have to remember, I've known you all your life. And one thing you don't realize is just how expressive your eyes are. That's why you can't lie to me. Your eyes give you away. The person that shot me…there was nothing there. Those eyes were dull and empty. There was no emotion at all, no life, nothing at all."

"It was still me."

"It wasn't!" John exclaimed. "My brother would rather die than hurt his family, and you've already proven that. Whatever The Hood did to you…it's all on him. I know you blame yourself. And the only way you're going to get over this is to forgive yourself. Just remember this, I don't blame you. No one blames you."

"How can I forgive myself after what happened?" Virgil asked.

"You'll figure it out in time," John answered. "Just know that we're all here to help you out."

"I think it would help me if you let me apologize, and if you'd forgive me," Virgil said a few seconds later.

John nodded.

"I really am sorry for hurting you. When I explain it later, maybe something will make sense. But I really am sorry. And I hope that one day you can forgive me."

"I already have," John replied. "I forgave you the second I realized that it wasn't really you that shot me."

John cautiously wrapped his arms around Virgil and held him as Virgil cried. Once Virgil was calm again, they went downstairs to see the rest of the family on the patio. And Virgil knew it was time to get the story over with.