In the end, it had been decided that Sergi would undergo the harvesting first. Finn would need his parents for the next few difficult days of Chemo and Radiation.
It had been the right decision as Finn had been very nauseous and clingy and Sergi had struggled with the flu like side effects from the injections.
The four days passed quickly enough though and today was the day. Today was harvesting day and while the others were occupied in the stem cell recovery room, Ben and Lilly were moving Finn's things into his new room.
The bone marrow suite was on the same floor as the Leukaemia unit but the rooms faced the south side of the city.
Whereas the Leukaemia rooms were bathed in sun light most of the day, the new room was dark, clinical, and not very welcoming. Sure, they had the same comfortable furnishing but it felt more like a hospital rather than the homely room Finn had occupied for the past month or so. The advantage of the new room was that there was a separate bedroom for people to stay in rather than sleeping on the couch as before though.
Ben and Lilly were decorating the room for their son, trying hard to make it as bright and homely as possible, knowing that they were going to be spending long difficult days in here.
"Did they say if Finn can have Barney in here or not?" Ben asked, pinning Finn's good luck cards to a chalkboard on the wall.
Lilly sighed as she stacked some DVD's in a cupboard. "Mr Freeman said no as there are no guarantees that there aren't any germs on the bear."
"Poor Finn. He's going to be devastated," Ben echoed the sigh.
"I know but Tim explained it to him and he took the news as well as can be expected. Mind you poor Finn was feeling so sick at the time and I'm not sure he completely understood."
"It's a shame. Finn loves that bear so much." Ben stuck the final card on and then stood back and inspected his work. "How does that look?" He asked Lilly as she crossed the room.
"That looks good," she smiled and they both stood in silence for a while just staring round the clinical room, knowing that they were going to be looking at these four walls for a long time.
The sound of the door opening broke the silence in the end and they turned to greet their boy who was being wheeled in by Polly.
"What do you think Finny?" Ben asked as upbeat as he could as Polly then helped Finn into bed.
"It's dark," Finn grouched, looking round the room. "I liked the other room," he sighed as he then lay down on his side and his eyes fluttered shut once more.
He was so weak and tired and had spent most of the day either sleeping or being poked and probed.
Ben doubted that Finn would actually need the sedative Polly was now preparing to administer to keep his son calm throughout the transplant but the nurse uncapped Finn's line and gave him the dose anyway.
"If you're sleepy Finister, just sleep," she told him, pulling the covers up over his shoulder before turning to Lilly and Ben. "You need to get gowned up now guys," she told them. "Mr Freeman is on his way."
Lilly and Ben nodded, grabbed their bits together and followed Polly out of the room, glancing at their boy who was now snoring softly.
Hopefully the next few hours would not be too bad for him.
Xxx
As it happened, Finn slept through the whole transfusion with his parents constantly at his side, watching and waiting for a reaction that never came in the end.
Polly had explained that Finn was so wiped out from the final Chemo dose that he would probably sleep on the rest of the night and urged them to get some rest themselves.
Ben opted to stay with Finn and Lilly reluctantly agreed to go home.
Sergi, who was mentally and physically exhausted after the harvesting was in bed by the time Lilly returned and Hanah was dozing on the sofa herself. Thankfully, Cara had seen to Connie and had prepared supper.
Lilly hadn't realised how hungry she was until she sat down with her sister and started to dig into the pie Cara had made.
"It's good," she smiled in between mouthfuls.
"Sam took me food shopping today, it occupied my mind waiting for news," Cara stated, pouring Lilly a cup of tea. "The vast array of food there is on this planet is mindboggling, Lil."
"I know," Lilly agreed as she ate. "Everything about Earth is mindboggling but you do get used to it after a while."
"Yes, well – I am not sure I could live here," Cara sat back with her cup of tea with a sigh.
"Me neither but they know what they are doing, medically and without them Finn would not stand a chance of survival."
"How is he tonight?"
"Still sleeping. He slept through the whole thing."
"That's good, isn't it?"
"Yes, it's good. It's very good. Mr Freeman had warned us that the procedure is not tolerated well by everyone. Finn has been lucky."
"Let's just hope he stays well."
"We can only pray." Lilly reached for some bread and started to mop up her gravy. "How were Ma and Pa?" She whispered so not to disturb her now sleeping mother.
"Pa looked so old," Cara sighed again as she sipped her tea. "I think all the stress caught up with him today."
"I know," Lilly smiled sadly and pushed her plate away. "I'll go and check on him in a while. Ma too, she looks exhausted."
"As was young Constance. There were no arguments from her today; I do believe she was sleeping before her head hit the pillow."
All the talk of sleep made Lilly yawn all of a sudden.
"I think we are all in need of an early night," Cara chuckled and Lilly stretched and nodded in agreement.
"I think you're right. I'm going to check on Pa and then retire for the night," she said as she pushed out of the chair and grabbed her plate.
"And I'll deal with ma," Cara joined her at the sink and they both swilled their dishes.
"It's been a long day," Lilly sighed, wiping her hands on a cloth. "Thanks for caring for Connie, Cara. See you in the morning," she rubbed Cara's arm and then staggered off to check on her father.
Xxx
Polly tip toed into Finn's room, switched his overhead light on and tutted at the sight of Ben who was curled up in the armchair next to the bed fast asleep. "Bed's more comfy Mr Ashton," she muttered to herself as she inserted her thermometer into Finn's ear.
As she waited for the readout, she was surprised to see two sleepy eyes watching her. "Hey Finn," she greeted softly. "How're you feeling poppet?"
"My head hurts some," Finn admitted with a yawn.
"Well," Polly checked the temperature readout and was happy to note that it was normal. "I was just going to give you some pain relief," she smiled as she capped the thermometer and placed it on the med tray. "This will help," she then grabbed a syringe, after double checking the dosage, uncapped his cannular, and added the contents. "I'm just going to check your blood pressure again and then you can go back to sleep, okay."
"'kay," Finn mumbled, on the cusp of sleep once more and Polly then made quick work of the rest of his required tests and medications before dimming his light again.
She then crossed to the small bedroom, grabbed the quilt off the bed and tucked it round Ben.
Happy that the Ashton boys were both now comfortable, she made her way to the nursing station to write up her observations before preparing for the next set that were due in half an hour.
She knew the routine very well and was very pleased that Finn seemed to be reacting to everything so well.
Xxx
Lilly quickly changed into her nightgown, climbed into bed with her daughter and gently pulled her into her arms. Connie smacked her lips a couple of times, fidgeted until her head rested on her mother's chest and then carried on sleeping.
Lilly had been in to check on her father and found him snoring loudly so was happy he was getting some rest.
She could hear her mother and sister talking softly in the other room and welcomed the sound. She didn't feel alone anymore, the long lonely nights of just her and Constance in the apartment seemed a lifetime away and she was so grateful for her families comforting presence at such a difficult time.
She fell asleep holding her daughter in her arms, her mind drifting to thoughts of summers days on Mandana, racing Finn round the orchard with the sun on her face and she longed for those days once more.
Xxx
The day started well enough.
Finn was strong enough to get up, shower and even managed a small amount of breakfast before enjoying a film with Ben in between the regular nurse checks and medication administrations. However, as the day went on, he began to tire and by the time Lilly's shift started, he was fast asleep once more.
"Has he been sleeping all day?" She asked as she crossed to Ben's shoulder.
"No, actually he's been better than has been for the last few days. Tim and I helped him shower and he even managed some porridge for breakfast. He fell asleep about an hour ago," Ben informed her as he stretched.
"That's great," Lilly gushed as she took Finn's hand in hers. "He's so much better than I thought he'd be."
"Don't get your hopes up too high Lils," Ben sighed. "Jarred has just been in to say that his white blood count is starting to fall now."
"Which means?"
"Which means that the chemo is working but it will be a while before the new stem cells kick in and until then he is wide open to infection. They are watching him very carefully at the moment."
"Oh, I see," Lilly pulled up a chair. "You're saying that this could be the calm before the storm."
"Exactly," Ben nodded. "But things are going to plan; they are expecting this and are prepared for everything Lils. He's in good hands."
"I know." Lilly watched her boy sleep, his cap almost pulled over his eyes and one hand cupping his chin. He looked so young. "Our boy is a fighter, Ben." She stated, smoothing out his covers.
"That he is," Ben agreed and then stood. "I think I'll grab a shower and something to eat," he stated, massaging out the kinks in his lower back."
"And some sleep. Finn and I will be just fine."
"Are you sure?"
"Absolutely. Go and spend some time with your daughter and then curl up in bed. I will call you if anything happens."
"Okay." Ben reluctantly agreed before crossing to the door. "I hope you have a peaceful night, my love."
"Me too, Ben. Me too," Lilly agreed softly and then sat back in her chair, Finn's hand grasped in hers.
Ben watched them from the doorway for a while, happy to see that they were both relaxing as much as possible.
Another day was over.
Onwards they went.
Xxx
The next few days were pretty much the same.
Finn would wake up feeling well enough to eat a light breakfast, shower, watch a movie and manage some soup for lunch before he ran out of steam and surrendered to his exhaustion.
Lilly had enjoyed the time she spent with her son. It was hard to believe that he was sick, it was almost as if the transplant had actual cured him but the dark circles under his eyes and constant exhaustion told a different story.
Ben had spent his spare time either sleeping, playing with Connie or catching up with the events on Mandana and the hospital seemed light years away for a while.
However, it was his turn to stay with Finn tonight and it was now eight o'clock in the evening he was sitting on the bed with his overtired and miserable son in his arms.
"What do you to want to do now?" He asked.
"Nothing," Finn shrugged.
"I've bought cards with me?"
"No."
"Battleships?"
"No."
"We could watch a movie?"
"No."
Ben took a deep breath and then let it go as he rested his head back against the headboard. "I don't know what to suggest then Finny. Why don't you go back to sleep."
"Don't wanna," Finn turned his head into Ben's chest. "Not tired." His statement ended with a yawn and Ben chuckled as he wrapped his arms tighter round him.
"Go to sleep, my boy," he rested his chin on top of Finn's head and Finn huffed but started to suck his thumb.
Within minutes, he was fast asleep once more and Ben was regretting not being in reach of his book or the remote, which he'd left on the chair.
It was going to be a long half an hour before Finn's next check.
Xxx
Routine was – routine.
Ben and Lilly took turns with their children.
Sergi, Hanah and Cara saw to everything else – the cooking, cleaning, washing...
Lilly was worried that they were becoming bored but they seemed to be taking everything in their stride, including the television, which both Cara and Hanah adored, especially at meal times when they'd take inspiration from the many cookery programmes that were on the numerous channels.
Sergi had spent a lot of his time at Cheyenne Mountain in meetings with electricians, scientists and weaponry experts. He was determined to put the spare time he had on his hands to use by getting tips on improving life on Mandana.
Yes, routine was good and as the girls gathered round the television to enjoy a nature documentary, they were happy to lose themselves in the wonders of Earth.
Xxx
Ben knew instantly that something was wrong.
The little body in his arms was burning.
Although he couldn't feel Finn's forehead because of his surgical gloves, he knew from heat bleeding through the sheet his son was wrapped in that his temperature was very high.
"Oh Finn," he sighed and went to reach for the emergency button and as he did, Finn sat up, hiccupped and proceeded to vomit all over the bed. "Oh, darling," Ben soothed, pressing the button repeatedly as Finn continued to gag and vomit.
Instantly the door opened and Tim rushed to their side.
"Easy, Finster." He quickly grabbed a bowl and held it under Finn's chin. "Spit it out," he urged and supported Finn's torso as he hung limply over the bowl. "Easy boy, easy."
"He's got a fever," Ben stated as he tried to wriggle from behind the still vomiting boy.
"I know," Tim sighed and reached for another bowl. "It's to be expected," he reassured quickly and then held Finn as Ben climbed off the bed. "Could you press the button again, Ben," he asked. "I think I need a hand in here."
"Of course," Ben nodded and pressed the button. He then sat at Finn's side, took the bowl off Tim, and held it in place as Finn continued to dry heave. "It's going to be okay, Finny," he soothed over and over again until he was sure his son had finished. He then gently eased him back against his pillows and started to help Tim remove the soiled seats. Another nurse who, after seeing their predicament had rushed to fill a bowl with some soapy water soon joined them.
Tim glanced at Ben's vomit splattered gown. "You need to go change, Ben," he told him. "We've got Finn."
"But..." Ben started to protest.
"We've got Finn," Tim repeated calmly but firmly and Ben knew that he was being kicked out for his own good. He'd done the same thing plenty of times with his patients back on Mandana and had the grace to do as he was told.
He left the room and as he walked down the corridor, he realised his hands were shaking. He quickly snapped of his gloves and ripped off his gown and hat, deposited them all in the laundry basket that was kept by the main nursing station and started to pace, impatient to get back to his son.
As he paced his stomach started to churn. This wasn't good. He'd been lulled into a false sense of security that his son was doing great. This was a setback, he knew that. How was he going to tell Lilly?
He was just going to reach for his cell in his pocket when a wave of nausea hit and he rushed to the bathroom where he promptly lost his supper in reaction to the whole situation.
This was not good, not good at all.
xxx
Jarred Freeman hurried into the room. "Okay, what have we got?" He asked Tim, grabbing Finn's chart off the end of the bed.
"He's spiked a fever."
"Of?" Jarred, flicked through the chart, glancing at his patient every now and again.
Finn lay limply on the bed, his head lolling from side to side and whimpering in obvious pain.
"102.2."
"Other symptoms?"
"Vomiting and belly pain."
Jarred placed the chart back and went to Finn's side. "Finn, I'm just going to feel your tummy," he told the sick boy and then lifted his gown and placed his hands on his abdomen. "Soft, no guarding. That's good," he glanced over and smiled at Tim when he finished his examination. He then pulled Finn's gown back down and tucked him in again.
"I think the vomiting is probably due to the Chemo and Radiation, his belly pain too," he nodded confidently and then picked up a thermometer and inserted into Finn's ear and waited for the beep. "Temps 102.8 now," he sighed at the readout. "We need to re do bloods and cultures stat. He could be Neutropenic but we can't rule out infection."
"Yes Mr Freeman."
"Let's get some ice packs in place and carry on piggy backing the Motrin and Tylenol. If he can't tolerate them then switch to suppositories. Add higher dosage broad-spectrum antibiotics, continue the Zofran and get an IV of fluids running. Oh, you'd best catheterize him; he won't be up to going far for a while."
"Yes Mr Freeman."
"15 minute obs and if he deteriorates any further I will be in my office. We'll reassess after bloods and cultures are in."
"Yes Mr Freeman."
Jarred placed his hand on Finn's forehead and smiled when the young boy managed to open his eyes slightly. "I know you're not feeling too great Finn but we're going to give you something to help you feel better."
"'kay," Finn mumbled before closing his eyes again.
Jarred glanced around the room, expecting to see Ben. "Where's Mr Ashton?" He asked.
"I sent him to get changed, Finn threw up all over him," Tim sighed as he crossed to the nurses' station.
"Right," Jarred followed him. "I'll go and find him, fill him in on what's happening."
"Okay," Tim nodded and started to prepare the medication his patient needed.
After turning to watch Finn restlessly moving on the bed, Jarred sighed heavily before going in search of the boy's missing parent.
So much for a peaceful shift.
xxx
Lilly sprinted down the corridor towards her husband. Ben had called to say that Finn wasn't doing so well and she knew from the tone of his voice that things were serious. The fact that Ben was sitting outside Finn's room with his head in his hand added to her anxiety.
"Ben?" Lilly gently placed a hand on his shoulder. "How is he?" She asked. Ben lifted his head and the look of sheer exhaustion he gave her was almost frightening. "Ben?" She repeated when he just blinked slowly in response to her question.
"Um...," Ben slowly started to pull himself together. "Um...Mr Freeman is with him."
"Have they said anything?"
"N-no, not yet. They're cleaning him up, he threw up everywhere."
Lilly sighed and then slumped in the chair next to her husband. "I don't understand," she shook her head as she picked at a loose thread on her skirt. "He was doing so well."
"I know. I thought he was sleeping but he spiked a high fever and just vomited all over the bed, all over me—there was no warning."
Lilly leant back in her chair and rested her head back against the wall. She was so tired having been deeply sleeping when Ben called. "How long has Mr Freeman been with him?" She asked, turning her head to face her husband, noting how pale he looked.
"About half an hour," Ben shrugged, resting his head back and folding his arms over his chest.
Lilly placed her hand on his knee when he then started to jiggle it up and down nervously. "Are you okay?" She asked softly and Ben slowly shook his head from side to side.
"Not really," he admitted. "Things are out of my control, his condition is out of my control and I don't know what to do."
"We put our trust in Mr Freeman. That's all we can do, my love."
"I know, but..."
The opening of the door quickly cut short Ben's reply, and he and Lilly were immediately on their feet when Jarred walked out of Finn's room.
"How is he?" They said in unison.
Jarred smiled gently as he snapped off his gloves. "Let's go to my room." He patted Lilly on the shoulder and led the way down the corridor.
It was four o'clock in the morning, the rest of the unit was sleeping but Ben and Lilly were wide awake and very worried about what the specialist was going to tell them.
Xxx
"I've increased his dose of broad spectrum antibiotics but until his cultures come back we can't be certain what sort of infection he's fighting." Jarred poured Ben and Lilly a cup of coffee. "I'm veering more to the Chemo causing his nausea, well – that and the transplant," he told them as he passed them a cup before taking a seat at his desk. "We're going to be monitoring him very closely again."
Ben placed his cup on the desk and sat back in his chair. "How long before his cultures come back?" He asked.
"It usually takes twelve to twenty four hours in the lab," Jarred informed. "I have dipped his urine and that seems fine, as does his PCC line. There is no swelling of lymph nodes and no redness of skin. I'm ordering a portable x-ray of his chest and abdomen but at this moment, there is no sign of a primary source of infection, which is not unusual in these cases. I had considered that it was just part and parcel of the transplant but the fever would have shown earlier if that had been the case."
"So, we watch and wait?"
"Exactly. I'll give him a dose of his booster and that, alongside the antibiotics should start fighting off whatever is causing the fever and once we have the culture results we can review the treatment if necessary."
"Can we see him?" Lilly asked, trying to get her head round what Jarred was telling them. She felt out of her depth dealing with this disease as the terminology was like a different language to her. It was only ten years ago that she'd ever heard of antibiotics, up until then the people of Mandana relied on herbs to treat infections and most patients perished. She almost felt as if they were experimenting on Finn but she knew that the specialists here knew exactly what they were doing and was very grateful for that.
"Of course you can see him," Jarred nodded and then gathered together Finn's notes. "He has just had a dose of Morphine so will probably be sleeping. Tim will be based in his room until we see an improvement so if you have any questions or concerns, just ask him."
"Okay."
"I will be back to see him in half an hour and should have his blood results back by then."
"Okay."
Jarred sat back in his chair again. "This is just an expected blip," he sighed. "We're ready for anything that is thrown at us. Try not to worry too much."
"That's easier said than done," Ben admitted.
"I know but Finn is strong and I am expecting a positive outcome in this case." The Oncologist's confident smile was reassuring and Ben and Lilly felt a little better about things.
Their son was in the right hands.
Xxx
Finn lay limply on his bed, naked from the waist up with several new leads attached to his too thin body. The tell tale signs that he was fighting a high temperature were there. His face was flushed, his breathing shallow and fast and he was softly moaning as his head lolled from side to side.
Ben had been shocked to see how much his condition had deteriorated in such a short while but Tim had been quick to reassure them that his temperature was no longer climbing and his nausea was now under control.
Ben wanted to take his boy in his arms and hold him but knew he couldn't – hell, all he wanted to do was smooth the pain filled lines on his forehead but knew the rubber gloves would be too harsh on Finn's delicate, radiation burnt skin. In fact, the whole restriction of the sterile nursing made comforting his son very difficult indeed, so when Tim had suggested that they helped lower Finn's temperature by bathing him, he'd viewed it as a perfect way to let him know that they were there, that he wasn't alone.
"Shh, shh, it's okay Finny," he soothed as he dabbed Finn's forehead with a damp cloth when he whimpered. "It's only Papi. Mami is here too, you're going to be just fine."
Finn continued to restlessly toss his head from side to side and mumble softly, his whole body bathed in sweat. As quickly as his parents wiped it away, it would appear once more. Ben was actually glad he couldn't feel how hot his son was. He knew, without even touching him that he was burning and was so relieved that his temperature was no longer climbing, if it had of been Finn would soon be in real trouble. As it was, the strategically placed ice packs and the tepid bed bath seemed to be working – for now.
Xxx
Finn's white blood count had, as expected bottomed.
His constant cough greeted the sun as it rose on a new day and Jarred had quickly ordered a bronchoscopy after which he started him on high dose steroids and oxygen. It had also been necessary to insert a feeding line because Finn's mouth and throat were covered in sores, making eating and drinking extremely painful.
Fifteen minute checks continued and his condition was listed as serious. There had been talk of moving him to the ICU at one point but they had managed to stabilise, what was a dipping blood pressure pretty quickly.
Finn lay, propped up in bed on a cooling blanket, stripped naked with only a thin sheet covering his lower body. Wires were coming out of every orifice, an oxygen mask helping his ragged breathing and a heart monitor bleeped a rapid beating heart.
He was very sick, very sick indeed.
Ben and Lilly were a constant at his side, soothing him when he cried out in delirium and trying desperately to calm him when he became upset. They just wished Jarred would sedate him but they knew, because of his breathing that it wouldn't be possible. Jarred had informed them that if he didn't show any improvement soon he would consider intubating him to try make him more comfortable and that told them just how very ill their son was.
The small dosages of Morphine Finn was allowed did calm him down for short periods but he would soon start to writhe in pain, dislodging his mask and setting the alarms off. In the end, Lilly had climbed up on the bed and taken him in her arms and that seemed to help. Ben had perched next to him and continued to bath his burning skin as they fought to contain his temperature, sometimes successfully and sometimes not when it spiked to dangerous levels and chills set in.
Tim and Polly spent most of the day with them, monitoring, medicating and transfusing Finn, while offering the family as much support as they could during this difficult time.
Ben had managed to get word to the rest of the family how sick Finn was and they had all been camped outside the room for most of the day, poking their head through the window, trying desperately to let Ben and Lilly know they weren't alone, that Constance was okay and for that, they were grateful.
Their number one priority was their son though and when Finn cried out once more and tried to curl up in his mother's arms; Lilly quickly wrapped her arms around him and gently rocked him.
"It's going to be okay, my love," she soothed. "Just try and sleep." She glanced up at Polly when she appeared at her side. "Morphine?" She asked and Polly nodded, gently turned Finn slightly and administered the dose.
Within minutes, Finn went limp in her arms and she sighed in relief and rested her head back. At least he would find peace, if only for a short while.
Xxx
"Can I suggest that you two go and take a break, shower, change maybe eat and sleep?" Polly hung another bag of blood, watching Lilly as she started to list to one side.
It was now two in the morning and there was still no change in Finn's condition. Lilly and Ben had spent every second at his beside and they were both totally exhausted.
"No," Lilly cleared her throat and sat more upright. "Finn needs us," she stated, quickly dipping her cloth again and dabbing at the sweat that dribbled down her son's cheek.
Finn lay in his father's arms, whimpering in pain and bathed in sweat. He had been drifting in and out of consciousness for hours and Ben and Lilly were beyond scared.
Jarred had reassured them that he was as stable as can be expected under the circumstances but they'd never seen their little boy so sick.
"Listen." Polly double checked Finn's lines and then pulled up a chair. "You are not doing Finn any favours by not looking after yourselves and sleeping at his bedside is not resting. There is a perfectly good bedroom next door, go and get a good night's sleep."
"He needs us," Lilly repeated, quickly shaking her head. "There will be time to sleep when he's better."
"When he's feeling better he will be more demanding and will need you more. At the moment we can give him the treatment he needs, please let us do our jobs." Polly placed a hand on her leg and smiled. "I don't want to have to insist but you do know that he is in perfectly good hands and if there is any change we will wake you immediately, I promise."
"But..." Lilly began to protest.
"She's right, Lils," Ben interjected with a heavy sigh of defeat. "We need to sleep."
"I don't want to," Lilly sniffed and Ben could see that she was on the verge of tears and quickly grabbed her hand.
"He's going to be fine. Polly and Jarred have him in hand. Let's go and get something to eat and then try and sleep, my love."
Lilly started to shake her head but Ben gently squeezed her hand.
"We need to be fresh to help Finn," he sighed and then watched as Lilly slowly placed her cloth down and hung her head. "Good girl," he praised, eased from behind his boy and lowered him back onto the bed, not liking how limp he felt in his arms. After tenderly kissing his hot forehead and straightening his oxygen mask, he crossed to Lilly's side.
"Come on Lil's," he offered her his hand and Lilly took it with a heavy sigh.
"Just for a few hours," she capitulated.
"Just for a few hours," Ben agreed and then stirred her out of the room, turning to glance and smile at Polly as she returned to tending for her patient.
Finn was in good hands.
Xxx
Lilly sat staring into her cup and running a fingers round the rim.
She and Ben were the only people in the family lounge and it almost felt eerie. Lilly wondered how many people had done the exact same thing as they were doing before. The hospital, although being very homely was a hospital at the end of the day, complete with hushed corridors and clinical sterile rooms. The family room did have plush leather sofas but books on Leukaemia littered the coffee tables and leaflets on support groups dotted the walls. Everywhere you turned there were signs of the disease. The alcoholic hand wash pumps, the books of prayers that were strategically placed for reading and the posters of charity groups reminded them constantly that they were here because their son was dreadfully ill and Lilly was so frightened.
"I can't go back," she mumbled as she continued to run her finger round the rim of her mug.
"What?" Ben frowned, not sure he'd heard her correctly.
Lilly pushed her drink away and then rested back on the sofa. "I can't go back in there," she repeated softly as she stared into space.
Ben carefully placed his cup down and slowly turned on the sofa to face her. "Why can't you Lils?" He asked tentively.
Lilly continued to stare straight ahead. "Because he's slipping away," she stated softly. "And there is nothing we can do about it." A single tear trickled unchecked down her cheek. "I can't sit and watch him die, Ben. I just can't. It's too hard."
"Oh Lils," Ben sighed and grabbed her hand. "I know it's hard my love but we have to be there for him, my love."
"I d-don't want to just s-sit and watch him s-slip away. I can't Ben, I really can't." Lilly was helpless to stop further tears from falling and Ben quickly took her in her arms.
"Shh, shh. It's going to be okay," he soothed as he rocked her and she began to sob uncontrollably.
"I'd r-rather d-die myself t-than w-watch him g-go."
Ben just didn't know what to say – how to make things better. He'd sat at his brothers bedside as Conner lost his own battle with Leukaemia and knew how extraordinarily hard that was. There had been plenty of times during the long dark days that he'd wanted to run away and hide but knew he would never have forgiven himself if he'd allowed Conner to pass on his own. Their little boy was as frightened as they were and he needed them.
"We have to be strong Lilly. I know how hard this is but Finn needs us to be strong. We can't let him down, my love."
"B-but I d-don't want h-him to d-die."
"I know, I know nor do I. But we have to try and be strong for him Lils. Either way we have to be there for him, he's our s-son." Ben swallowed back the emotion he felt, desperately trying to stay in control for his wife and his son's sake.
Instead he held Lilly and let her cry, knowing that was what she needed. He would have time for tears later.
He needed to be strong for all of them for a while.
Xxx
Sergi turned over when he felt the dip in the mattress. He sighed at the sight of his wife sitting on the edge of her bed with her head in her hands.
"Han?" Reaching over he gently stroked her back, feeling the tremors that shook her tiny frame. "It's going to be okay, my love."
"I'm so afraid," Hanah's statement was heartbreaking and Sergi inched up in bed and wrapped his arms round her.
"I know you are," he sighed. "But Finn is going to be just fine," he tried to reassure but Hanah turned to face him with tears running down her face.
"How do you k-know, Sergi? How do you k-know that he is g-going to be f-fine?"
"Because I do," Sergi shrugged.
"That's n-not good enough."
"Because he's a fighter, because he's Finn," Sergi shrugged again as he tried to explain his gut feeling. "Because we won't let him be anything but fine," Sergi gently eased Hanah into his arms and they both rested back against the bed's headboard.
"Lilly and Ben looked so tired," Hanah sighed as she laid her head on his chest.
"I know," Sergi agreed softly.
"I wish we could do more to help them."
"We're doing all we can my love."
"But it doesn't seem enough."
"They know we are here for them and that is all we can do."
Sergi continued to hold his wife as night turned to day once more, neither achieving any sleep as the uncertainty of the days ahead played heavily on their minds.
Xxx
Tim pulled back the blinds on the window, hoping to allow the sun's rays warm the room but the dark cloud tumbling in from beyond the mountain soon blocked out the brightness of the new day.
He turned to watch his patient. Finn's condition was still worrying; his fever had a firm grip, his breathing was harsh and shallow and the pain in his belly constant. The morphine was helping some but when it wore off, Finn would cry out and writhe in agony.
The night had been long. Tim was just grateful that Polly had persuaded Lilly and Ben to sleep as there had been several times that Finn had been very distressed. Thankfully, the changes Jarred quickly made to his meds seem to have calmed him down, although the possibility of moving him to ICU remained.
The young nurse was used to these situations and although it was hard, he knew his job and knew he had to put his professional hat on to helps his patient through the next difficult few days. That was something he could do, he could be 'the nurse', but dealing with worried and scared parents was a different thing altogether and when Ben slowly walked into the room he smiled as reassuringly as he could.
"Good morning," he greeted.
"Morning Tim," Ben replied, tucking the tags of his mask behind his ears. "How is he?"
"Pretty much the same," Tim returned to his patient's bedside. "We had a couple of blips over night but Mr Freeman altered his meds and he's much more comfortable now."
Ben sat and took Finn's hand in his. "What does Mr Freeman say?" He asked, gently rubbing his thumb up and down Finn's limp hand.
"He's stable and holding his own."
"I see."
"We're just giving another transfusion and waiting on his bloods. Mr Freeman will be back shortly so, hopefully, we'll know more then." Tim placed his stethoscope in his ears and placed the bell on Finn's heaving chest. "His lungs do sound slightly better," he glanced over at Ben and smiled. "I know Mr Freeman is keen to lower his oxygen settings today if at all possible."
"That's good news, isn't it?"
"It will be a step in the right direction," Tim nodded, removing his stethoscope and placing it on Finn's bedside cabinet. "We'll just have to wait and see," he added and reached for his patients chart. "Is Lilly still sleeping?" He asked as he added his findings.
"Yeah, she's only just dropped off so I've let her sleep."
"It's the best thing for her," Tim smiled and replaced the chart. "Why don't you go and get some breakfast," he suggested. "I'm just going to give Finn a nice bath, make him more respectable. You've got plenty of time to eat before Mr Freeman does his rounds."
"Are you sure?"
"Yup – go on. I've got Finn."
Ben hesitated for a moment when Finn groaned but when his son settled down again, he smoothed his covers, tenderly stroked his flushed cheek and left his son in Tim's capable hands.
Xxx
"Okay. Here's what we know." Jarred Freeman addressed Lilly and Ben. Finn was the first patient on his rounds and his priority. His blood and culture's results were in.
He watched as Lilly gripped her husband's hand, knowing how worried and concerned the young couple were. At least he had some good news to tell them. "Finn is now slowly and surely producing his own white cells," he smiled.
"Really?"
"Yes, his bloods are looking good. The transfusions we've been giving him over the last few days have improved his red count too so from that point of view he's doing great."
"But?" Ben leant forward and asked.
"But, "Jarred sighed, mirroring Ben's position. "His cultures confirmed that he is fighting a bacterial infection, probably gastric. His abdominal pain and nausea point to that fact. Now, a bacterial infection is easily treated and a change in antibiotic should knock it back in a couple of days."
"Okay," Ben nodded slowly, taking in the information as best he could.
"His bronchoscopy," Jarred continued. "Showed that he has a mild case of bronchitis. Again, this is perfectly treatable and could be worse. At least his lungs are clearing. We'll continue with his high dose steroids but will lower his oxygen setting as his pulse ox has improved over night. Hopefully now his while count is improving Finn's body should start to help fight these infections too but it's going to be a slow process I'm afraid. The fact that his bloods have improved is encouraging though so I'm happy to carry on as we have been although if he does start to deteriorate I will transfer him into the ICU."
Ben placed his arms round Lilly's shoulders. "So, he's improving?" He tentatively asked as Lilly tiredly rested her head on his shoulders.
"I am cautiously optimistic," Jarred agreed. "But he has a long difficult road ahead of him and we cannot rule out a rejection to his stem cell transplant at any stage. We will take things one day at a time and be as watchful as we can."
"Okay, we can do that, can't we Lilly."
Lilly nodded and turned her head to look Ben straight in the eye. "Yes we can," she agreed with tears brimming in her eyes.
Ben hugged her tighter. "Thank you Mr Freeman," he turned to the oncologist. "We appreciate everything you are doing for our Finn."
"He's a fighter, Ben and that's the main thing. I expect nothing more from him or you."
"Absolutely."
"Right," Jarred gathered his file together. "I'd best carry on with my rounds. Your family is waiting outside, I'm sure they'd appreciate an update."
"Of course."
"Tim will start Finn on his new regime and I have ordered some scans and procedures this morning. Take a break, go and get some fresh air, Finn will be busy most of the morning."
"Okay," Ben agreed to suggestion, happy that his son was slowing beginning to respond to his treatment.
Although the news wasn't all good, it was good enough to offer them hope and hope was all they wanted.
xxx
The Garden of Hope was situated just outside the Chapel on the lower floor of the hospital. While Ben retreated to the peace and quiet of the Chapel, Lilly and her family wandered around the maze, enjoying the sun on their backs and watching Constance as she skipped along the narrow hedge lined pathways. If it wasn't for the fact that Finn was so dreadfully ill, they'd have really enjoyed the family outing. As it was, the young boy was not far from all of their minds.
"Did they say what procedures they were doing?" Sergi asked, strolling at his daughter's side with his hands clasped behind his back.
"Some scans and another look at his lungs I think. Just some more routine things," Lilly shrugged.
Cara walked at the other side of her sister; arm's linked with her mother. "Poor boy, he's been poked and prodded so much," she sighed.
"He's been so brave," Lilly stated with a hint of pride in her voice. "Mind you, he's needed to be. Many of the procedures have been so invasive. I just can't wait for it all to be over so we can take him home, he misses home so much."
"We cannot rush things my dear," Hanah stated, peering round Cara to smile at Lilly. "Mr Freeman is right; we need take things one day at a time."
Lilly smiled back and then took her father's arm. "I cannot remember what life on Mandana is like," she sighed wistfully. "It feels as if we have been here forever."
"Life will be as we left it," Sergi smiled. "Your little cottage will be the same, the hospital will be the same – life will be the same."
"I didn't think I would miss it as much as I do," Lilly admitted. "I don't think I could ever get used to all the technology or the pace of life here on Earth. Things move too quickly. It's so confusing."
"It's also exciting," Cara joined in the conversation. "I'd forgotten how exciting it is here, my maternity rotation seems such a long time ago but in that time, so much more has advanced. Do you think we'll ever catch up?"
"Gosh, I hope not," Lilly said, waving at Connie when she turned and smiled. "I would hate it. I'm so surprised that Ben is content with leaving it all behind."
"Ah, but Ben loves you and where you are he is content to be."
Lilly nodded, smiled and patted her father's arm. "I truly hope so," she shrugged and then called to her daughter. "Come on Constance; let's see if we can find our way out of here." She turned to give her family a sad smile and then jogged after Connie who was giggling as she ran away.
The rest of the family watched the Ashton girls, wishing with all their hearts that the Ashton boys were running at their side and that they were racing round the orchards of Mandana.
Their home world seemed such a long way away at the moment.
xxx
Finn's condition remained pretty much unchanged for the rest of the day. They still had a battle to control his temperature but at least he'd been downgraded to a nasal cannular for his oxygen and to Lilly and Ben that was a huge achievement and step forward.
Jarred remained guarded with his prognosis, knowing from years of experience not to build parents hopes up too much as complications could occur at any time. They were keeping a close eye on the sick boy, he was receiving the right medication and that was about all they could do. It was up to Finn and his growing immune system to do the rest.
Tonight, Sergi was staying with his grandson having successfully managing to persuade his daughter and son-in-law to return to the apartment to spend time with Constance and get a proper night's sleep. He understood why they were reticent to do so but they were both so exhausted and needed a complete break from the hospital. Finn was as comfortable as could be expected and the medical personnel were on the ball. Ben and Lilly were only five minutes away if anything happened.
Sergi found he enjoyed the peace and tranquilly of the room, it gave him time to think and reflect on what had been an almost surreal couple of months. Never in his wildest dreams had he ever thought that he would bring his family light years away to another planet! The fact that his daughter had married an 'alien' from another planet had been hard to get his head round but to actually step foot on Earth had been mind blowing to say the least.
But, the reason for his journey had been very very important. He would move worlds for any of his grandchildren. His place was at his grandson's side and when Finn groaned softly and turned to face him, Sergi placed the book he'd been reading down and gave him his full attention.
"Finny? Are you waking up poppet?"
He watched as Finn scrunched up his nose and smacked his lips.
"Come on my love," Sergi persevered after Tim glanced over and nodded his approval at his actions. "Show Grandpi those lovely blue eyes."
He smiled at his grandson when his eyes eventually fluttered open. "Hey there," he greeted softly.
"G-grandpi?"
"How are you feeling my love?"
"I'm hot, Grandpi," Finn complained as he weakly knuckled his eyes.
"I know you are," Sergi sighed as he watched Tim cross to Finn's side. "Tim is going to make you feel better."
"Hey there Finster," Tim smiled and inserted a thermometer in his patients ear. "Nice to see you awake buddy."
"Where's mami and papi?" Finn's voice was barely a whisper as he looked round the room obviously looking for his parents.
"I made them go get some rest," Sergi said, reaching to hold Finn's hand. "They have barely left your side for days my love."
"I don't remember," Finn sighed heavily and then closed his eyes again.
"Well, you've been real poorly Finster," Tim told him, "but you're looking much better now," he reassured as he read the thermometer readout. Although Finn's temperature was still over 102, he seemed much more lucid and that was a very good sign. "I'm just going to give you something for your fever and you can go back to sleep."
"'Kay," Finn mumbled, bringing up a hand to knuckle his eyes again. "I'm sleepy."
"Well, go to sleep then Finny," Sergi chuckled softly and then pulled Finn's sheet that he'd kicked off in his restlessness, up to cover his chest. He watched Tim administer some more medication and then sat back with his book again, expecting Finn to fall asleep but when he turned his head and called his name, Sergi closed his book once more.
"I'm right here Finny," he quickly reassured, grabbing his hand. His heart broke when he watched one tear trickle down his grandson's flushed cheek. "Hey, hey – don't cry my love," he softly urged.
"Am I dying Grandpi?"
"What! No – of course you're not dying sweetheart." Sergi dragged his chair closer and rested his chin on Finn's pillow. "You're going to be just fine," he managed to smile as he tenderly stroked Finn's cheek. "You are such a fighter, my Finn. I'm so very proud of you."
"I d-don't w-want to d-die, G-grandpi," Finn was openingly crying and Sergi continued to caress his cheek, hoping to calm him.
"Shh, shh, my love. It's going to be all right sweetheart; you just have to keep on being strong. We are all with you, you are not alone, I promise."
"I w-want t-to g-go h-home," Finn hiccupped. "I c-can't remember w-what h-home is l-like."
"Close your eyes then Finny," Sergi gently urged. "Picture the rolling hills, the lake where we fish. Try and remember Clancy and Hector, trotting down the country lanes and the orchards and meadows where you and Constance play." He carried on softly stroking Finn's face as he spoke and when Finn took a shuddering breath and started to relax; Sergi knew that he was doing some good.
"Do you remember your birthday when we all picnicked at Penten Lake and your Papi made you a kite and we all took turns flying it? Remember how warm the suns were and how calm the water was..."
Sergi continued to remind Finn of home and the sick boy eventually feel asleep again, Sergi hoping with all his heart that he was dreaming of home and better times.
Xxx
Finn's condition slowly began to improve. Long days and even longer nights were spent at his bedside, bathing him when he was too hot, holding him when the chills hit but eventually, after six agonisingly slow days, his temperature and infections were under control.
The fact that he woke up this morning, complaining that he was starving gave his parents a huge boost! They could finally see a light at, what had been a very dark tunnel.
Jarred had disconnected the feeding tube and Finn was tucking into a large bowl of sweetened oats with great gusto.
"It's good," he grinned between mouthfuls.
"Slow down, Finny," Ben urged. "You'll make yourself sick."
"I don't feel sick," Finn continued to grin. "It's ace not to feel sick papi."
Ben chuckled at his son's enthusiasm; it was so wonderful to see! "I'm sure it is," he nodded and poured Finn a glass of water. "Don't forget to drink."
"I won't." Finn placed his spoon down, picked up the glass and drained the water before digging into his breakfast again.
Ben glanced and smiled at Lilly who returned the smile eagerly.
Their son was so much better, the fact that Jarred was just checking his latest blood results and had mention that he'd like to see Finn up and about today really confirmed that he may have turned the corner – finally.
Xxx
Finn soon had so many white cells his body didn't quite know what to do with them! His red cell count was up to normal too, after a course of transfusions. His new bone marrow was obviously doing its job and everyone was delighted.
The time came to get him back on his feet again. Jarred had promised him that if he could walk down the corridor and back five times before the end of the week, they would transfer him back to his old room for a few days and then he could go home!
The promise of home, albeit just to the apartment for a while, was the spur Finn needed and he was soon nagging Polly and Tim every five minutes to help him out of bed.
The young boy, pushing his IV stand down the corridors of the bone marrow suit had become a regular sight. Finn would wave and smile at the other children undergoing the same procedure and Ben and Lilly knew that their young boy was giving other families hope.
He had made so much progress in a relatively short time. His appetite was enormous! The weight that he hadn't afforded to lose was piling back on, his grey pallor was improving and the awful sores around his mouth were healed. When he wore his cap, it was hard to believe he was sick at all!
Boredom was a big problem now he felt better though. He was getting frustrated being 'holed up' in the hospital room and was itching to explore the new world. Ben had bought him DVD's about Earths nature and wildlife and father and son had enjoyed many hours watching them. Sergi had been to the library and taken out many books about Earths history and Finn had devoured them eagerly but pictures and film didn't do Earth justice and the young boy wanted to see as much as possible for himself.
"So, England is a country?" Finn continued to quiz his father as they started lap two of his walk down the corridor.
"Yes, the same as the United States of America, Canada, Italy, France. Heck Finn, there are too many countries to remember."
"So, there are tons of countries that make up Earth."
"Yup."
"And in between the countries there are great vast areas of water?"
"Yeah, oceans."
"And these oceans are full of fish like Penten Lake."
"Yes, kind of, sort of. I don't know how to describe it. There are thousands, no millions of different life forms on this planet – like the horses and chickens at home. They are a food source for us humans exactly the same as Mandana." Ben kept his voice low as he tried to explain things. "The more you watch the DVD's the more you will learn."
"Can I see all the countries?" Finn asked as they started lap three.
"Heck no!" Ben chuckled. "I will show you some of America when you're stronger. It would take forever to travel round the world and I don't know about you but I'm rather eager to go home."
"Me too," Finn agreed with a smile. "But it would be wonderful to see everything."
"Well, I haven't seen everything myself. It's not that simple."
"But there are those metal birds that fly. Tim said that people travel around the world in them."
"Yes they do. They're called aeroplanes but there is no way we have time to travel. You have to get back for school, Constance is missing her friends and your mother and I have a hospital to run."
"Maybe one day?"
"Yes, maybe one day," Ben smiled. "But you've gotta travel two more times down this corridor before we can take the next step first and the way you're puffing I think that even that maybe too far at the moment."
"I can do it," Finn grinned, took a deep breath and then increased his pace, leaving his father to jog to keep up with him.
One small step for man was a huge leap for Finn Ashton today!
Xxxx
"I don't know how to thank you." Lilly gave her sister a hug. "I'm going to miss you so much."
Cara had decided that now Finn was doing so much better it was time to return home to her girls. It had been a long month or so and she was longing to see her family again.
"You don't have to thank me. I know you would do the same for me. I'm going to miss you too."
"Give Sophie and Rachael a hug for me."
"I will."
"And send Niall all our love."
"Of course. Look after ma and pa."
Sergi and Hanah had decided to stay on Earth until Finn was fit enough to return home. Ben had promised to show his boy his world and they didn't want to miss out on the experience.
"We will," Lilly promised and took a step back when Walter announced that the seventh chevron was locked. "Have a good journey," she called as she stood and watched Cara make her way up the ramp.
Just before stepping through the event horizon, Cara turned and waved. "I love you. See you soon."
"Love you too. Tell everyone the good news."
"I will," Cara promised and took that last step home, a step Lilly longed to take herself but knew her son was not quite ready for just yet.
Finn still had some healing to do but hopefully it wouldn't be long before they were the ones stepping through the gate.
xxx
Everyone had greeted Finn's return to his first room with great excitement.
The end of barrier nursing meant that the whole family could stay with him to while away the boredom.
Pyjama parties were organised and Harry Potter films were watched, compete with ice cream for Finn and popcorn for the rest of the family. Ben had been more than happy to produce his pack of cards once more and enjoyed teaching the whole family a variety of Earth games. Polly and Tim had joined in several times at the end of their shifts, much to the joy of Finn who had grown extremely close to the young medics.
Although he was still exhausted and slept a lot, Finn enjoyed the time they all spent together. It wasn't something that didn't normally happen as on Mandana there was always much to do from tending to the animals to working the land – to be able to kick back and relax as a family was wonderful.
Sergi and Hanah adored the time spent with their daughter and her family, getting to know Constance properly had been a joy. The young confident girl quickly had them wrapped round her little finger, as she did most people. They marvelled at how patient Finn was with his little sister and how much Connie obviously idolised her big brother.
The days, which were filled with laughter, passed quickly and for that, they were all grateful as they longed to go home.
xxx
"Okay. I will need to see Finn in clinic next week." Jarred pulled up a chair round Finn's bed. The day had finally come. Finn was fit enough to go home. "He needs to attend once a week for a month and then I understand you will be travelling home."
"Yes," Ben nodded, giving Lilly's hand a squeeze and grinning at Finn who was sat on the bed flicking through a comic with Constance. "Our physician at home will be continuing to monitor Finn's condition."
"Okay, that's fine. I'll send them his notes."
"Um... would it be possible for us to take them?" Ben ventured tentatively, knowing that he would be the one overseeing Finn's care on Mandana.
"Well, it's not normal procedure," Jarred mused. "But, in this case, I'm sure it will be fine. General Laundry has explained that things are complicated where you live."
"That's an understatement," Ben muttered under his breath, flashing his wife a knowing smile.
Jarred continued to talk, either ignoring or not hearing what Ben had said. "You still have to be very careful young man," he glanced up and smiled at Finn. "You need to rest as much as possible, eat healthy food and avoid crowded spaces. Your immune system is still weak; we don't want you picking up another infection."
"Okay, Mr Freeman," Finn grinned.
"And, you're still going to be on some powerful drugs and the side effects may knock you round a bit."
"I know."
"Right," Jarred flicked through Finn's notes again. "I think that's about all. Pharmacy will be up with your drugs shortly, Polly will tell you the dates and times of your clinic appointments and I think you'll be able to go home." He closed the notes and smiled. "You've done extremely well, young Finn. I know it's been difficult but you have been very brave. Just make sure you look after yourself."
"I will," Finn smiled back. "Thank you."
"It's been my pleasure." Jarred stood and held his hand out to Ben. "Take care of him," he smiled.
Ben stood and shook the Oncologists proffered hand. "We will, don't worry."
"And, take care of yourselves," Jarred added, shaking Lilly's warmly by the hand as well.
"Thank you so much, we owe you so much," Lilly smiled.
"Just enjoy your boy," Jarred shrugged and after ruffling Constance's curls and warmly embracing Finn, he left the Astons to their packing.
As the door closed, Ben turned to Lilly and took her in his arms. "It's over. We'll soon be going home."
"Thank the Gods," Lilly sighed as she sank into his embrace, the sound of their children giggling from the bed making her heart sore.
Soon their life could begin once more.
Xxx
The next month seemed to go on forever.
Finn had been more tired than they thought. Mind you, the trips they made to the local places of interest between the clinic appointments may have not been a good idea but Finn had insisted on seeing at least a small amount of his Papi's world.
Medically, he was doing really well. Jarred had discharged him from his care and Polly and Tim had both been at his final appointment to bid him farewell. There had been plenty of tears and promises to keep in touch, promises the Ashton's knew would be hard to keep but Daniel had said that he didn't mind giving the hospital updates for them.
Finn's last few days on Earth had been spent at the SGC while his parents caught up with all the developments of the past few years. He and Connie had enjoyed being totally spoiled by the Stargate personnel having spent a lot of time with Sam in her lab, with Daniel learning about the history of Earth or with Vala who's many tales of her own world kept them entertained for hours.
But the time had finally come to go home and the whole family gathered at the bottom of the ramp with Daniel and Sam who were there to see them off.
"Thank you just doesn't seem to cover it," Ben sighed, shaking Daniel warmly by the hand.
"We just so glad that Finn is better," Daniel smiled. "Look after him and yourselves." He turned and hugged Lilly, followed by Hanna and then he picked Constance up. "Be good princess," he told her and swung her round. Connie giggled uncontrollably. "I will, nuncle Daniel."
Daniel placed her on the ground, watching Sam as she said her goodbyes and then crouched down next to Finn. "Take care of yourself, young man," he smiled and patted his cap-covered head. Finn immediately launched himself into his arms, causing Daniel to waver slightly in response to the ferocity of the hug he gave him.
"I will Uncle Daniel. I'm going to miss you."
"Me too, Finny. Me too."
Soon though the goodbyes had been said and Walters's familiar words sounded.
"Chevron seven – locked."
"God speed," General Laundry added as the event horizon shimmered into focus.
Ben and Lilly gave Sam and Daniel one last hug and then took Connie's and Finn's hand.
The whole family walked up the ramp with huge smiles on their faces and at the top of the ramp, Ben turned to his son.
"Are you ready to go home, my love," he smiled.
Finn grinned back. "Yup, I am papi."
Ben glanced at Lilly and saw the tears in her eyes. It had been a long, emotion difficult journey but, finally home beckoned and their lives would go on, altered forever but enriched none the less by the experience.
As a one, the family took that step home...
Xxx
EPILOGUE.
EIGHT MONTHS LATER.
"Finn Ashton. Put that chicken down right now!" Platon Lilly Ashton shook her head in disgust as she scolded her son.
Nine year old Finn was chasing his sister and cousins round the courtyard with a squealing hen in his hands. Constance and the Wenton twins were screaming as they ran towards the barn with a giggling Finn hot on their heels.
Lilly stood with one hand on her hip and the other stroking her noticeable pregnancy bump. She hadn't been wrong when she'd said that their lives would be change forever due to Finn's illness. Ben and Lilly had been surprised to find that Lilly was pregnant on their return to Mandana. They'd put Lilly's tiredness bouts of sickness down to the stress of the past year but a positive pregnancy test had both delighted and amazed them. Child number three was on its way and they couldn't be happier.
"I will not tell you again, Finn," Lilly yelled. The sting was taken out of her words when her husband started to laugh at Finn's antics.
"Oh leave him, Lils," Ben urged gently, wrapping his arms around her rapidly expanding waist. "He's enjoying himself."
"What if he falls?"
"If he falls – he gets back up again," Ben shrugged. "We don't need to wrap him in cotton wool anymore, my love."
Finn was doing so well, his strength returning in leaps and bounds. He was back in school part time and enjoying catching up with his friends.
Ben and Lilly were actually amazed at how well both of their children adapted back into the Mandanan way of life. There was no nagging for television, no regrets for leaving Earth behind and for that, they were more than grateful.
In fact Finn had been more than happy to submerge himself in his books again although he spent an equal amount of time writing now. The whole experience seemed not to have altered him at all, maybe that wasn't exactly true as his hair was now growing back curly, something he hated with a passion but something that his parents loved!
So, apart from a few mental battle scars and the excitement of a new life growing, life went on as normally as it had before.
And, as Lilly and Ben watched their children having fun in the sun, the stress and worry of the past year seemed to lift.
Life was good and the future was something to look forward to, especially for Finn Ashton!
THE END