The news of Ethan's death had spread around the department as soon as the two paramedics returned from the crash site. Yet, not everyone knew about the tragedy. Cal was still sat in the staffroom, waiting to hear any news from the crash site. He had no idea that Ethan hadn't made it. The time Cal spent in the staffroom different scenarios ran through his head. The one scenario that didn't was the one where Ethan had died. Sitting on the sofa resting his elbows on his knees, Cal just hoped Ethan was on his way and would be alright.
Of course, he will be alright, Cal thought to himself. He knew Ethan would be in safe hands and that his colleagues, his friends wouldn't give up on him. Why would they? They wouldn't let him die, not on their watch. Back outside unaware to Cal the rest of the team were still reeling from the news that Ethan hadn't made it.
"We did everything we could. But, his injuries were extensive. He had lost a lot of blood." Dixie explained to them.
"We tried to stop the bleeding but, as Dix said the injuries were extensive. He had severed two main arteries and his head wound was severe. He'd blown both his pupils before we could get him out." Iain added his voice choking.
"Who's going to tell Cal?" Robyn wondered looking over her shoulder towards the staffroom. Everyone turned towards the staffroom. How were they supposed to tell Cal that his brother had died? Cal was going to be heartbroken and they all knew it.
"Maybe we should." Dixie replied.
"No. I'll do it." Charlie stopped her. "Though you two should come with me." He continued indicating to Dixie and Iain. The rest of the team departed leaving the other three to break the news to Cal. Charlie, Dixie and Iain paused at the door before entering. This wasn't going to be an easy task to do. They just hoped they would be able to stay strong for Cal's sake. Charlie knocked before the three of them entered. Cal looked up as he heard the door opening.
"How's Ethan?" he asked standing up.
"Cal, why don't you sit down." Charlie offered.
"No, I'm fine standing up. Tell me how is he?" Cal replied refusing to sit.
Charlie stepped further inside followed by Dixie and Iain. Cal looked between Dixie and Iain. Dixie smiled a small smile while Iain couldn't look him in the eyes. It was then he knew something wasn't right.
"What? What is it?" Cal asked hoarsely.
"Cal..." Dixie began.
"Where is he?" Cal asked. "Dix, where's Ethan?"
"I'm so sorry, Cal. I'm afraid he didn't make it." Dixie responded.
"What do you mean he didn't make it?" Cal laughed slightly.
"Ethan died at the scene." Dixie clarified.
Cal shook his head.
"No."
"I am so sorry. We did everything we could."
"No, he can't be dead." Cal spoke as he collapsed to the floor.
"Could you give us a minute?" Charlie asked the two paramedics.
"Sure." Iain nodded. "We'll give you two a few moments."
Dixie and Iain returned to reception where everyone stood, their attention towards the staffroom. A few seconds later after the two of them had left the room the silence was broken by a heart wrenching scream. Everyone turned towards the staffroom and saw Cal sobbing into Charlie's shoulders as the news finally hit him.