Disclaimer: White Collar and the characters borrowed for this story are the creative property of Jeff Eastin. This story was written and shared solely for the enjoyment of other White Collar fans. No copyright infringement is intended.

Forged Friendships

Chapter – 6 Sweet Dreams

Elizabeth tied the syringe shaped pen to the paw of the FurKin and perched him on top of Neal's IV pump with a note that read – Yikes, starting to feel like a pincushion here! She chuckled a little hoping that the joke wouldn't go unnoticed.

Despite Peter's objection, El liked the funny fury little creature. It offered a soft edge in contrast to all the technical instruments that crowded the small hospital room. She was amazed at how anyone could get use to working around these complex devices, interpreting how the undulating lines and flashing numbers related to a warm living person.

Elizabeth stood staring up at the collection of empty IV bags that hung on the back hook of the four-prong tree suspended above the infusion pump. Three full bags of liquid dangled from the remaining hooks and fed into a vein in Neal's forearm. Earlier in the day, Stephen had removed the first needle from the back of Neal's hand and instructed Elizabeth how to place warm compresses over the puffy lump left by the IV site. She thought it so looked sore and uncomfortable but in the big picture, it was probably the least painful of his injuries.

The hard blue plastic molded chair provided no cushioning and Elizabeth decided to stand and stretch out the muscles in the back of her legs. She slid the chair to the side and turned toward the bed, pleasantly surprised to see Neal's blue eyes following her movements.

Stepping closer, she lowered the bedside railing and brushed her fingers back through his hair, loosening his curled bangs into soft waves. Her hand gently traveled down his cheek, coming to rest along his jaw line. He closed his eyes comforted by her soothing touch. "Hey Neal, How you doing? Is your stomach still hurting? She gently laid her hand on top of the small pillow, he clutched to his abdomen.

"Hurtz s-some. Hhheard yur laugh. Mus be get-ting bet-ter."

Elizabeth smiled, "They gave you another medicine that should make you more comfortable. Don't forget you have this button if you're having pain." She positioned the button near his hand. "Are you thirsty?"

"M hmm" he faintly nodded.

She picked up the cup. "The ice is all melted. Let me go get some more. Plus Peter wanted to know when you were awake. He and Mozzie are down the hall." She pulled the railing back up into place. "I'll be right back."

"Kay," his eyelids drifting shut.

Elizabeth stepped out into the hall and over to the nurses' station. Vanessa was back on duty. "Hello Mrs. Burke. Have you been here since last night?"

Elizabeth's appearance made it not worth pretending otherwise and she shook her head, yes.

"You and your husband must go home tonight. Mr. Caffrey is doing well. His fever is staying down with the Caldolor and so far his test results are not showing any signs of infection." She looked directly into Elizabeth's eyes, "You are going to make yourself sick if you don't get some sleep. Mr. Caffrey isn't going to spring up and go home in a day to two. He is going to need you and Agent Burke for support for quite awhile. Visiting hours end at 8:00 pm … no exceptions tonight," she warned.

El pulled the corner of her mouth into a distorted smile. "I wanted to let you know, Neal is awake and is thirsty. The ice is melted. Could you get him some more? I so feel bad, this is his birthday and all he can have is a little ice."

Vanessa smiled, "I can give you some flavored ice for him, if you promise to only scrape a little onto the spoon at a time. He shouldn't have any real volume of liquid just yet. Let me check on him and then I'll get you some," she pointed to the chair at the end of the nurse's station.

"I need to let my husband know he is awake. He has another friend here. Could he visit for a few minutes?"

"Let me see how he is doing first. I saw your husband and the little balding guy go into the On-Call room at the end of the hall. It's the last door on the left."

Elizabeth thanked Vanessa and headed down the hall.

Vanessa entered room 811 and stepped over to Neal's bed. "Mr. Caffrey are you awake?" She gently touched the top of his arm. "Can you open your eyes for me?" Neal stirred a bit, mumbling as he drew his eyelids open to look up at the small dark hair nurse. "Yur new."

Vanessa moved his arm and lifted the pillow from his abdomen. "No, you just slept through my last shift." She flipped her stethoscope off the back of her neck and put it into her ears. "Let me take a listen to your lungs. Can you breathe a little deeper?" Neal grimaced and drew in a deep breath. "How is your pain level … 1 to 10? 10 being the worst." Neal bit his lip, "May-be an 8." Vanessa handed him the morphine control button. "I am going to have to sit you up," she pointed toward the button.

Neal nodded, "Kay"

Vanessa walked to the other side of the bed, "Let's get a look at where all your drain tubes are running before I move you around." Neal turned his head toward Vanessa with an anxious look in his eyes. "Mr. Caffrey this isn't going to hurt. I'm just making sure we're not going to pull on anything." She turned the top of sheet down and lifted back the edge of his gown. The chest tube was unobstructed and the drain bulb was at his side. She retrieved a small plastic metered cup from the nightstand and drained the pink fluid from the bulb. "You're going to find that we have an odd fascination with just how much fluid goes in your body and comes back out." Neal watched as she sealed the cup and sat it on the tray table at the end of the bed. He hoped that the liquid was supposed to be pink and that there should be so much of it.

She covered his bare side and placed the small pillow back against his abdomen, slowly lowering the bed and elevating his head. "Let me know if you start to feel dizzy or nauseated. You doing okay?"

Neal held his eyes tightly shut in anticipation of the nausea he experienced earlier. "I am going to lean you forward so I can listen to your lungs. You relax and let me do the work." Vanessa supported his head and shoulders and started to tilt him toward her. She could feel him tensing in response to the pain. "Are you okay?" She wrapped a reassuring arm around him and placed the scope against his warm back.

"Try to relax Mr. Caffrey. It's okay to rest against my shoulder. Now breathe as deeply as you can." Neal inhaled deeply, shaking with the little exertion and gasped as a sharp pain jabbed at his abdomen. "We're almost done here; breathe in deeply one more time."

Vanessa pulled the pillow back up to the top of the bed and carefully lowered him back onto the pillow. Neal remained quiet but his discomfort was obvious as he clenched his jaw and swallowed hard. She held the morphine button up into his view and placed it in his hand. "That should help ease the pain. Don't be afraid to use it when you need to," she patted his arm, "Your lungs sound clear. We need you to keep taking deep breaths so you don't develop pneumonia."

She reached for the temperature probe as his wide eyes followed her. "Let's see how warm you are this evening." She placed the probe against his forehead as he rolled his eyes up in an attempt to see the device.

"Liz-beth kis-sed my h-ead w-hen it waz w-warm."

Vanessa held back a laugh, "They warned me about you and those potent blue eyes!" she teased. "This will have to do."

"Tad-lers" his mock disappointment showing.

"I've just spoiled all your fun." She examined the IV site in his forearm. It was still infusing properly but she knew with the amount of medication being pushed through his vein that it would need to be changed sometime tomorrow. Maybe a PICC line would be better for him. She steadied his hand in her palm and examined the raised lump, gently pressing. "Is this sore?"

"Lit-l"

"Let me warm up this compress."

Neal nodded, "Kay"

"You know, you have some friends that want to see you," she smiled. "Let's pretty you up a little for your visitors." Vanessa gently lifted his head and smoothed his hair down in the back. There that looks better." She straightened the sheets and loosely tucked them around him.

He looked over at her with those huge blue eyes, craving attention. "Oh what the heck, I shouldn't … but since it is your birthday" she leaned over and gave him a quick kiss on the forehead. "Happy Birthday, Mr. Caffrey."

Peter walked in catching the end of the kiss and laughed. "Didn't they tell you he's a master con artist?"

Neal beamed with a satisfied grin, "A-le-ged!"

"And he has a thing for brunettes!" Peter chuckling as Elizabeth poked her head around the corner having missed the whole thing.

Vanessa started to blush as she left the room to warm up the compress, with Elizabeth following behind.

"Well, you look much better than you did this morning and by that, I mean ALIVE. That minuscule kiss must have started your heart."

Neal looked down feeling warmth spread into his cheeks as he drew the corners of his mouth into a slight smile. "Wher-z Moz?"

Peter sat down next to the bed, as he thought through his response. Mozzie had warned him not to say anything to Neal about Violet, fearing that it would upset him too much. "He went back to June's. She was very worried about you. He said he would stop by tomorrow." Peter's eyes wandered down to Neal's puffy hand. "Seriously, how are you feeling?"

Neal's lazy gaze fixed on Peter's face. "Ti-rd … kind-a-thir-sty," he looked up at the IV, "not a-loud to dr-ink. Neal tried to lift his shoulder in an attempt to turn, "hurtz bad w-when I mov."

Peter fidgeted in the chair as he watched his partner struggle with such a small movement, nudging the chair back with a nervous stretched. He wanted to reach out and help but with so many tethers attached to Neal, he feared that dislodging one might cause more harm. "Maybe you should just stay still there buddy."

"W-what's tha-t fuz-zy th-thing," looking in the direction of the IV pole.

Peter rolled his eyes as he saw Elizabeth and Vanessa return carrying a flickering light on top of a container of Cherry Italian Ice. "Happy Birthday Neal!" Elizabeth held the battery operated candle down so Neal could see it and handed him the FurKin. He smiled at the two women, "Th-anks"

Elizabeth grinned, "Your partner here doesn't want you to know this but that is "Peter the Porcupine"."

Vanessa chuckled as she placed the warm compress on Neal's hand. "Looks like Peter might just be the Patron Saint of Phlebotomists," she squeezed Neal's hand lightly, "and with that bad joke said, I will leave you to your visit."

"Well, it's not cake but at least it has some flavor." Elizabeth removed the lid from the cardboard cup and scrapped a thin curl of cherry ice onto the spoon, feeding it to Neal. He licked his lips, enjoying the cool moisture in his mouth. She scrapped another curl onto the spoon and tipped it into his mouth. Elizabeth's weariness was starting to show and a tear dropped down onto Neal's arm. "Oh no, I'm getting you wet, "looking at the cup of frozen ice.

Neal's eyes glistened, "Clo-ser, Liz-beth"

El leaned nearer as Neal lifted a shaky hand and wiped his thumb across the wet streak on her cheek. She placed the cup on the tray and took his hand, pressing her lips against his fingertips.

"Yu nee-d to g-go h-ome. Al be o-k."

Elizabeth's lip began to quake as she nervously fussed over him pulling the sheet closer and tucking him in. Peter approached, slipping his arm around El's waist, turning her to go. "See you tomorrow buddy." El leaned against her husband's side. "Sweet Dreams, Neal."

Neal settled back into the comfort of the pillow as a warm sensation filled in around him, soon yielding to sleep.

Neal stood leaning in toward the mirror as his slid the knot of his tie snuggly in place and folded down the collar of his crisp white dress shirt. He picked up the plain silver collar pin from the dresser and carefully secured it behind the perfectly centered knot, his long graceful fingers gliding down the silk finish of the pencil thin tie. Holding up one arm, he folded back the French cuff and inserted a silver and onyx inlayed, cuff link and then the other. He looked again in the mirror, thinking to himself, "Style takes time."

It had been a long while since Neal had a night on the town that didn't involve an undercover assignment. Tonight he didn't have to pretend. He could just be himself and enjoy the pleasant company of his dear sweet friend, Violet. He knew whatever she had planned, that it would be a perfectly elegant evening. Nothing made Neal happier than a surprise, especially one in his honor. He reached over, removed his vest from the wooden valet, and slipped it on, buttoning it up.

The antique white gold pocket watch lay face up on the dresser, a delicate pattern of undulating swirls accented the shield with NC engraved on it. He picked it up and cradled it in the palm of his hand, gently fingering the chain as he popped open the cover. The beautiful old timepiece played its' lovely tinkling music - Fur Elise. "Kate loved the classics." He carefully draped the chain through the front of his vest and tucked the watch into his pocket, patting it with his hand.

He sprayed on some cologne and ran his fingers back through his thick wavy hair, curled ends turning up giving a slightly tousled appearance. Pulling on his dark grey suit coat, he retrieved a tiny gift bag from the table and headed for the door. As he exited he grabbed his wool over coat and fedora and bound down the stairs singing "Call me irresponsible … Rainbows I'm inclined to pursue ...I'm just irresponsibly mad for you." He jumped the last three stairs landing and swinging around the newel post, continuing to waltz into the great room leading an invisible partner.

June looked up from her reading with raised eyebrows as she closed the book and placed it on the ottoman in front of her. "Why you're exceptionally chipper this evening. Going dancing?"

Neal winked at June, his eyes gleaming as he broadly smiled back at her, "Maybe, I don't know yet." He turned his invisible partner again ending with a dip. "June, do you have any ribbon I could use?"

June pushed the ottoman forward and headed for the dining room with Neal following close behind. She knelt down tucking her skirt under and pulled open the lower drawer of the serving buffet. "I believe that there is some ribbon in this box."

She placed an old decorative cardboard box on the dining room table. Turning around she, patted his cheek, "You do look dashing tonight. She must be a very special woman."

Neal just smiled politely as he opened the box and removed a length of red grosgrain ribbon.

"Do you need scissors, dear?"

Neal wrapped the ribbon around a silver ballotin box and tied it in a bow, sliding a delicately enameled holly leaf pin through a single loop of the bow. "No, it's the perfect length."

June gazed over his shoulder at the gift, as Neal tucked it back into the bag. "Would you like to take the Jag tonight?"

"Thank you for the generous offer, but I've already called for a cab." He stepped forward and gave June an affectionate hug as he headed for the front door. June couldn't help but wonder who Neal's mystery woman was but she pushed her curiosity aside just delighted at seeing Neal so happy.

Neal arrived at The Mansfield, tipped his cab driver and stepped over to the grand entrance way leading into the lobby of the posh 1920's era hotel. The door attendant pulled open the heavy beveled glass doors, lined with elegant art deco trim and ushered Neal inside.

The lobby was striking with high ceilings, intricate patterned terrazzo marble floors, and dark wooden paneled walls, tastefully adorned with original works of art. Sparkling potted trees and plants decorated the alcoves and fresh holiday flower arrangements spilled over from every table. Off the lobby was a game room with high ceilings, a huge fireplace and quaint library nooks that featured tables for chess and backgammon.

The other side of the lobby featured a sophisticated piano bar with a beautiful domed skylight. Neal entered the bar and selected an intimate table for two in the back corner. He placed his coat and hat on the chair behind him and sat facing the entrance. The server took his order, a glass of Prosecco. It was early for the night crowd, and the bar was nearly empty. He leaned back in his chair and enjoyed the pianist's rendition of old jazz standards as his sipped his drink.

Neal was just getting ready to check the time when he saw Violet enter the room. She was wearing a gorgeous fitted black chiffon cocktail dress with a v-neck and full sleeves that were banded at the elbows and trimmed with silk piping. Around her neck, she wore a simple strand of pearls with a diamond clasp. Her hair fell loose from a French braid twisted with tiny pearls. Neal stood as she approached the table and stepped forward to pull her chair out. He slipped his arm around her waist and smiled, leaning over to give her kiss.

"Sorry I am running a little late. I am not use to wearing these contact lenses." She sat as Neal pushed the chair in for her. "What would you like to drink?" She looked at his wine glass, "What are you having?" "I'm having Prosecco but they have sparkling mineral water if you prefer." She looked up and nodded, "with lime, please."

Neal returned to the table with the drink. "We have a little time until the opening starts." She picked up her evening bag and reached in to retrieve the invitations. With a gasp, her eyes widened, as she felt something strange in the top of her bag.

Neal was grinning as he took her hand and perched it on top of his, "Is something wrong?"

"Neal Caffrey, I will never get use to you." She reached in and pulled out the small silver present. "It's beautiful, Neal. You know Christmas is my favorite time of the year." She removed the bow from the silver ballotin and tied the ribbon around the bottom of the beautifully enameled holly pin. "Will you help me put it on my coat before we leave for the MoMA?" She looked at the silver box on the table as she handed him two Benefactor's Only invitations, to the opening for Monet's Water Lilly exhibit. "Is this box what I think it is?"

Neal lifted the lid revealing two select pieces of chocolate candy. She reached in rustling the tissue paper cups and picked out a white chocolate star drizzled with dark chocolate. Neal followed in suit and took the remaining dark chocolate moon. They both held up the pieces of chocolate in a toast, "To living life on the edge." and to that, she responded "To eating dessert before dinner." It was their tradition and they both laughed as they ate the rich chocolate truffles.

"Violet, let's dance." She looked at him and giggled knowing how silly the request was but she nodded her head as she stood. Neal took her hand and led her to the small dance floor as he gestured to the pianist to play. He stood on the floor and motioned for Violet to step up onto the edge of the low raised dance floor. Even with the help of the step, Violet was much shorter than Neal. He leaned down and gently pulled her into his arms as they swayed to "Call Me Irresponsible". Neal's hand softly trailed down Violets arm taking pause as he felt the outline of an IV port under the soft material of her dress. His face turned somber, fearful it meant that her cancer had returned. He tipped his head down and tenderly kissed her hair. She rested her cheek against his chest and held his hand, feeling safe in his warm and tender caress. For tonight neither of them would have painful memories, just each other. That was their rule.

The music ended and Neal slowly turned her around in a spin as he held her hand. "You look beautiful tonight." She stepped down from the edge of the dance floor. "You sir are a hopeless romantic." And to that he responded, "Yep"

They returned to the table to retrieve their belongings. Neal held Violet's ivory swing coat open for her to put it on. She slipped her left arm into one sleeve but her other arm came to an abrupt stop as she attempted to slide her hand through. Tilting her head back she saw Neal's grinning face. "OK silly, let go of the sleeve." She turned to face him, looking up as he pinned the holly leaf to the collar of her coat and straightened the bow she had tied.

Neal fanned out the invitations in his hand surprised to see his name listed as a Benefactor. "What's this all about?" Violet held his over coat open and tucked the invitations in his inside pocket. "I liked the irony of Neal Caffrey being a Major Benefactor of an art museum. It entitles you to attend any opening that you like."

Neal placed his arm around Violet's shoulder as they exited the bar. Leaning down he whispered in her ear, "Thank you but this is too much." She reached up and grasped his fingers intertwining them with her own.

They stepped out into the crisp clear night. "It is really bitter cold out tonight with the wind. Maybe we should grab a cab?" Neal reached over and fastened the top button on her coat, tucking her scarf around her neck. Violet looked up, brushing his hand away in objection as she pointed down to her flat shoes. "It's only 3 blocks. I planned to walk. That's why I like The Mansfield!"

Neal nestled Violet against his body as he stepped to the curb to hail a cab. "Maybe the wind will die down and we can walk back." He raised his hand with a bill protruding from his grasp as a cab swung into the curb. Neal sensed Violet's irritation as he helped her into the cab.

The driver turned to accept the tip. "Where to this evening?"

"To the MoMA's main entrance."

As the cab pulled out, Violet gently turned Neal's face towards her and looked directly into his eyes. "I know what you are doing. Please don't let this ruin our evening. Believe me, I'm fine."

Neal turned, shifting his body to the side, "Violet, people who are fine don't wear dresses with sleeves to hide IV lines." He bit his lip, "The cancer is back isn't it?"

She reached over and touched his cheek, "No Neal, I'm sorry I never meant for this to upset you. I just want this night to be special for you. Five years has been too long." Violet hesitated but then continued knowing that Neal would not enjoy himself until she explained," I had surgery for my Crohn's and developed an antibiotic resistant infection. You know, my immune system is messed up, so it's just taking longer for me to completely shake this thing. I promise. It's not the cancer."

Neal pulled her into his lap, his eyes glistened with unshed tears as he rested his forehead against hers. "I can't bear to lose you too." He raised his head and softly pressed his lips to her temple.

Neal's eyes jerked open as he felt someone touch his arm. Vanessa was standing beside him. "Mr. Caffrey, I am so sorry to wake you. It's time for your antibiotic." She wiped the IV port with alcohol and flushed the site with saline.