Chapter 5: This Changes Everything Part 1
SCENE: OB FLOOR
(Amber sits in a chair trying to stay composed with Jo on the exam table as they wait for an OB)
Jo: (Sighs and looks at Amber)
Amber: (Tries to appear calm)
Jo: (Rolls eyes) Go ahead, let it out.
Amber: (Grins and squeals) Your pregnant! Oh my god you're having a baby, I'm gonna be an auntie again! Hey if it's a girl can you name it after me? Or just a middle name would be great.
Jo: (Grins) Okay let's slow down we don't even know if I am pregnant all we know is my test was positive last night. It could be a false result we both know that happens.
Amber: (Still excited) 'Could be' or it could be a little bundle of joy I am going to spoil rotten. I think I'll take her to Fiji for her 13th birthday, do you want to come?
Jo: Assuming that this pandemic ends by then yes.
Amber: Okay I know that the timing is…less than ideal.
Jo: (Snorts in irony)
Amber: But there are other people who are raising babies in this scary world, I mean look at Link and Amelia. They are raising four kids, only one is actually theirs, and I think they're doing a pretty good job at it.
Jo: Aside from the pandemic there's the matter of my husband and father of my possible baby being in another state.
Amber: We still have about eight months so things could change during that time. I heard they're allowing people to drive across state now so maybe this will finally get Alex to come home. Until then I am the designated Karev when you have ultrasounds, I think you hit the jackpot with me.
Jo: Amber stop talking like I am actually pregnant; can you wait a little bit and then either celebrate or drink your sorrows? I mean I think that Alex would be quiet until they put a wand in my stomach.
Amber: No, he would be quiet but excited. I mean he must be on the edge of his hotel bed just waiting for you to tell him the results.
Jo: I'm sure he would be.
Amber: Wait you haven't told him?
Jo: I mean we're both busy and I don't even know if I am pregnant. I don't want to get his hopes up until I am absolutely sure. And before you go judging me just take a second to remember how long you took before you told DeLuca that you thought you were pregnant.
Amber: …Good point.
Jo: Yeah.
Amber: Look if you are pregnant just make sure me, Alex and the OB are the first to know, you can avoid an argument over a screen that way.
Jo: How will Alex find out? He is a thousand miles away from all the gossip.
Amber: Jo he could be thousands of planets away and still know because these people have figured out how to gossip via phone and laptop. I mean they could make a meme with you stating, 'when your pregnant but your husband is away due to pandemic' imagine how Alex would feel seeing that on his twitter.
Jo: (Sighs) Okay if I am pregnant, I will immediately go to the lounge and tell him, happy?
Amber: I was already happy when you told me last night, I will be throwing confetti if you're carrying my new niece or nephew.
(Carina DeLuca enters the room)
Carina: Hello Dr. Karev and…Dr. Karev.
Amber: Carina, you're the OB?
Carina: Yes, I am.
Jo: (Notices Amber's discomfort) You know I can get another one if you-
Amber: No, no it's fine lets just find out as soon as we can. You can get started Carina.
Carina: Okay, lay back for me Jo.
(Jo lays back on the table as Carina turns on the ultrasound)
Carina: Any dizziness or vomiting?
Jo: Um I threw up like two days ago but I just thought it was a bad burrito, I don't feel dizzy though.
Carina: Okay and when was your last period?
Jo: Just a week before covid so around March 6th.
Carina: Okay if the fetus is around a month, then we can do an abdominal ultrasound to confirm your pregnancy. I'm going to insert the gel now please lift up your shirt.
(Jo lifts up her shirt and Carina puts gel on her lower abdomen)
Amber: If Jo gets covid could the baby get covid too?
Jo: Okay Amber lets find out if there's a baby first.
Amber: I am just wondering if she should even be working if she is pregnant. I mean God knows what this virus is capable of, Carina?
Carina: There are rules that state a woman can work during this pandemic as long as she has PPE on. It is fine until you reach 28 weeks in which case you will no longer have close contact with covid patients.
Amber: Okay and worst-case scenario she does get covid what happens to the baby?
Carina: There is an increased rate of possible miscarriage if she tests positive while in her first trimester.
Jo: Which I won't I'm covering Meredith's service so I just do consults and some elective surgeries. (To Amber) Unlike you who spends a third of her time up there overexposing herself, now please save the questions for when I am pregnant.
Amber: (Gets the message) I'm hovering, aren't I?
Jo: Just a little bit.
Amber: (Groans) Good god I am becoming those women. I hate those women who hover over pregnant women like they're the ones with a baby in their uterus and now…I-I am done I won't hover anymore I am the cool sister from now on.
Carina: (Chuckling) Okay let's get started.
(Carina puts the wand on Jo's stomach and they look at the screen seeing blurry black and white images)
Carina: Okay let's have a look and see-
Amber: (Sees something) Oh! I see something that's the gestational sac.
Jo: (Glares at Amber) Did you switch from surgery to OB when this pandemic started?
Amber: I'm sorry, I'm sorry continue Carina, you won't even know I'm here.
Jo: (Under her breath) I'm not so sure about that.
Carina: And from the screen she appears to be correct that is the gestational sac.
Jo: (Gasps) Which means that I am pregnant.
Amber: (Happy) Yes finally!
Jo: (Sighs) Ignoring my very happy and annoying sister, is there a heartbeat?
Carina: (Points to the screen) Yes you can see it right here and it is nice and steady which means this is a strong pregnancy. Judging by the size and your last period you're at seven weeks.
Jo: (Blanches at the coincidence)
Amber: Which is right before the world ended as if the universe wanted this baby to be born at the worst possible time ever. But otherwise, congratulations Jo! you're having a baby!
Jo: (Grins to save face) Yeah, I'm having a baby, wow.
Carina: The baby looks healthy so far there's no bleeding in your underwear or when you pee?
Jo: No.
Carina: Then your good to go. (Wipes the gel off) If there's anything you need to know don't be afraid to come to my door. I have another patient and I believe you two do as well.
(Carina leaves the room. Jo sits up with an unsure look on her face)
Amber: (Notices the face) Are you okay?
Jo: Yeah, why wouldn't I be?
Amber: Maybe because you look like you got news you had cancer instead of pregnancy, what's wrong?
Jo: (Normal voice) Nothing, nothings wrong I'm okay I'm just figuring out how to tell Alex this through a video call.
Amber: There's not good way to tell him especially now so just skype or zoom him and tell him quickly. This way he has time to process and figure out a way to get the hell back here so he can see his kid before it's fifth birthday. We don't want that to happen for a third time, and yes, it's a third because I'm including each of the twins. The only difference is that a pandemic is keeping him away not a selfish, arrogant, bitch who I am not referring to by name for fear it brings out a tidal wave. (Exhales) Sorry we're talking about you here, is there anything you want me to do? I can be there to help you tell Alex.
Jo: Thanks, but I'm okay to tell him alone I think you've done more than enough today. And my shift ends in a few hours so I'll tell him before I head out.
Amber: (Still happy) Okay that's good get some rest because it's good for the b-a-b-y.
Jo: Okay Amber, I know you are excited about this but please don't tell anyone just yet. I-I want to tell them when I want to tell them can you let me?
Amber: (Shrugs) It's your uterus not mine. I gotta go I have to check on the interns and then research. Let me know when you've told my brother.
Jo: Will do, thank you.
(Amber leaves Jo in the room whose true face comes out as she is haunted by past memories)
LATER AT THE SECOND FLOOR
(Amber groans at what she is looking at in her tablet and goes to James Chee)
Amber: Chee, why does Barrett Messer's labs show that he has anemia despite no indicators for a transfusion?
Chee: Um because he has anemia but is not symptomatic?
Amber: (Authoritative voice) Wrong because along with anemia his HCG levels are high despite the fact that he is not pregnant and oh yeah, he's a man! Try again before I bury you and it won't be in scut!
Chee: (Afraid) Um uh I think I mixed his labs with someone else?
Amber: You think?! My patient is waiting in the ER with abdominal pain and negative covid results and you think you mixed up his labs with a pregnant woman?
Chee: I-I-I had to do an admission of-
Amber: (Scowls) Don't make excuses.
Chee: I'm-I'm sorry I-
Amber: Don't apologize.
Chee: O-Okay.
Amber: Don't talk.
(Andrew looks up from the monitor and grins at Amber's bossy attitude)
Amber: I recovered Barrett's labs and he tested positive for H. pylori infection, what does that tell us?
Chee: (Stays quiet due to fear)
Amber: (Frustrated) Speak!
Chee: T-That he has a stomach ulcer and needs a round of antibiotics for the infection. (Amber glares at him) W-Which I'm gonna do right now in fact because it's my screw up and I don't want you to-
Amber: (Frustrated) Go to Barrett with the antibiotics and try not to kill him.
(Chee scurries off in fear. Andrew grins and approaches Amber who looks at her tablet)
Andrew: (Proud) I knew from the moment I met you; you were destined to send innocent interns crying to their parents.
Amber: Yeah well, I'm just being diligent unlike these inbred, barely out of med school kids who don't know a wound vac from their ass. How did you handle interns without killing them?
Andrew: I have a better temper than you and I care if I go to prison for manslaughter.
Amber: No manslaughter is unintended I would go for first degree murder I would get the needle.
Andrew: (Chuckles) Well not all of us are exceptional interns who came out of match day knowing everything and getting things done right.
Amber: Yeah, I guess I can't go around hoping for another me around here especially during a pandemic.
Andrew: No, I was talking about me I'm the exception your…moderate.
Amber: (Eyebrows raised) Moderate? I assisted in a groundbreaking project a few months into my intern year.
Andrew: Yeah, but I helped with a trauma on my first day so well they mistook me for an attending.
Amber: And you didn't bother correcting them until it was too late. Also, my first month here I kept a man from bleeding out with my pure will power.
Andrew: You almost threw up when you assisted in a percutaneous drainage your first day.
Amber: (Opens her mouth) …Fine you get that one. (Pager beeps) Ugh it's probably the dumb Ortiz, to be continued.
(Amber walks away from Andrew who chuckles at Amber handling interns and scarring them)
LATER AT THE ATTENDINGS LOUNGE
(Jo takes a deep breath before opening her laptop and sending Alex a Zoom request. Jo waits a few moments before Alex appears on the screen in his hotel room)
Alex: (Grins) Hey beautiful.
Jo: (Smiles) Hey how are you?
Alex: I'm good, I have the day off today so I thought I would spend it indoors and binging on Netflix, what's up?
Jo: Um…I know it's probably too early for you over there and your really tired.
Alex: No, I'm okay it's never too early to talk to my wife, if anything it's one of the two things I look forward to after my shift. It ties with spending time with the twins.
Jo: Yeah, no of course um…you're a really good dad to them you know.
Alex: (Shrugs) I try to be.
Jo: No, you are, you just are. You don't have to be compared to your father to know that your better than him those kids are so lucky to have you as a dad…and so is our kid.
Alex: (Confused) What?
Jo: I'm pregnant.
Alex: (Shocked) …What?
Jo: (Nods) Yeah, I know it's…insane and not just the fact that I'm pregnant but that I'm pregnant when the world is falling apart. I-I didn't plan for this in any way but with everything that was going on with the twins to Richard to the pandemic I forgot to take the pill. I know that the timing is horrible with the pandemic to you in another state because of the pandemic to the murder hornets that I have just read up on. It's not a great place to bring a baby but I just-
Alex: (Grins) I love you. (Laughs) I love you Jo and I am already falling in love with our baby right now even when the world is on fire.
Jo: …Your happy?
Alex: (Smiles) Happy? We're gonna have a baby!
Jo: (Tears up and laughs) We're having a baby!
Jackson: You're having a baby? Congrats.
(Jo turns and sees Jackson behind her as he enters the lounge)
Alex: Who is it? Show me.
(Jo adjust the camera so it shows Jackson by the fridge)
Jackson: Congratulations man, it's the first bit of good news I've heard this year.
Jo: Your heard about the murder hornets too?
Jackson: (Shocked) What?
Alex: Yeah, because covid wasn't bad enough. Jo turn me back to you.
(Jo turns Alex back to her)
Alex: How far along are you?
Jo: (Uneasy but composed) Um s-seven weeks.
Jackson: That figures your baby was conceived around the time the world imploded, what you expect when a Karev comes into the world.
Alex: Shut up man. Who else knows? Besides me, you and Avery?
Jo: Amber knows I told her I suspected last night and Carina DeLuca confirmed it this morning so that makes five people who know. Should we start telling people now?
Alex: Um let's wait until I come down and we can tell everyone, I want to be there personally to see their reactions. Got it Avery?
Jackson: Lips are sealed, don't worry. How did Amber take it? Was she trying to act cool about it?
Jo: She wasn't even trying; I mean it's like she was the one who was pregnant in there not me. I swear she is more excited than me about this baby.
Alex: It isn't surprising seeing the way she took to the twins.
Jo: Yeah, and how she can't have a baby. I mean I get it and I'm happy that she's happy I just…
Jackson: You want to feel like the only crazy paranoid and hormonal person in the room?
Jo: Yes, that's it. Is that selfish? Am I being selfish?
Alex: Never, do you want me to talk to her? Get her to lay off a little?
Jo: Just a little bit if you can. Thank you, I have to go home and sleep before my next shift. I'll talk to you tonight though bye, I love you.
Alex: I love you now get some rest, bye.
(Alex hangs up and Jo puts her boots on with Jackson in the room)
Jackson: Despite the timing you must be excited huh?
Jo: (Calm voice) Hmm? Oh yeah, I'm very excited.
Jackson: You sure? You sound like it's any other day and not the day you found out your pregnant. Seriously is everything okay?
Jo: (Grins to save face) Yeah everything is fine, I guess I'm just processing this as much as I can. There is a lot to process.
Jackson: Well, hey if you want to talk to someone…talk to your sister. I would offer but I feel a Karev is better equipped for this plus it would feel weird hearing about your problems.
Jo: (Chuckles) I appreciate that I guess but I'll be fine I just need some sleep.
(Jo leaves the room)
FLASHBACK TO 2010
SCENE: BATHROOM
(A 23-year-old Jo is sitting on the toilet waiting for the results and looks down at the pregnancy test. She is shocked by the two sticks confirming she is pregnant with Paul's baby)
LATER AT THE SECOND FLOOR
(Amber is talking to Reza Khan about him not checking her patient's drainage output as instructed)
Amber: (Disappointment in her tone) You were supposed to check Mr. Porter's drainage output every twenty minutes but I had to hear updates from a nurse because you left your post for an hour.
Khan: I was asked by Dr. Koracick to find a covid test for him to take in case his result was a false positive.
(Amber inhales and exhales sharply at Koracick taking her intern while giving angry eyes at Khan who gets scared)
Khan: I-I-It won't happen ma'am um I mean doctor I was just trying to-
Amber: (Angry) His urine is dark and cloudy what does that tell us?
Khan: Um he's dehydrated or it could be kidney failure but I'm betting it's dehydration.
Amber: (Glares at him) Do you want to make that bet while he's struggling to breathe because you can't do a simple blood draw?
Khan: (Scared) I-I can do a blood test for kidney failure doctor, h-how about I do that right now and-
Amber: (Angry) Get away from me right now.
(Khan runs inside the patient's room. Taryn carrying a tablet sees him running past her and goes to Amber)
Taryn: I think you made him pee his pants a little. What did he do?
Amber: (Frustrated) He left my patient to take orders from an egotistical psycho known as Tom Koracick.
Taryn: (Looks up in shock as Amber continues ranting)
Amber: Even in quarantine that son of a bitch somehow finds a way to make life difficult for everyone.
Taryn: (Clears her throat to make her stop)
Amber: Which you wouldn't think is possible seeing as how we're in a pandemic but no Koracick thinks hold my beer and-
Koracick: (On the tablet) It's nice to know how much you've missed me 2.
(Amber stops ranting and looks at Taryn who holds the tablet so the screen faces Amber who sees Koracick on the other side)
Koracick: Oh, don't let me stop you continue on how much of a menace I am to the hospital that was previously mine. And let me remind you that I am still attending neuro surgeon and still your boss so-
Amber: (Angry) Hey Koracick next time you want to steal my intern make sure that a man's life isn't at stake while you try to get out of quarantine. Khan is my intern and you are at leave if I have to remind you.
Koracick: Oh, trust me you don't. I'm convinced that the covid test was a dud so I had one of the interns search for a new one. If I had known they would get the pleasant attitude from the less subpar resident I would have-
(Amber angrily ends the video chat to Taryn's shock)
Amber: (Sighs in relief) That's better now if you'll excuse me, I am going to bed before my next shift so I can sleep off Koracick's psychopathy and the intern's stupidity.
(Amber leaves the floor feeling exhausted)
LATER THAT NIGHT AT ALEX AND JOS HOUSE
(Amber comes upstairs with food for her and Levi. She knocks on Levi's closed door)
Amber: Hey Levi wake up I've got enough noodles and dumplings to mess up our bowels for days and an Adam Sandler movie on my account.
(Amber waits a moment before knocking on the door again and it opens reveling Levi in sweats and a t shirt)
Levi: Hey uh you're here.
Amber: Yeah, I'm here it's my break before my next shift same as you, why-
Nico: Hey do you have mouthwash or-
(Amber turns to see Nico in his boxers exiting out of Levi's adjoined bathroom to her shock and later frustration)
Nico: (Awkward) Um hey I didn't even know you'd be home.
Amber: (Pinches the bridge of her nose)
Levi: (Notices her face) Okay Amber let's just-
Amber: (Scowls at Nico) Kim go back inside the bathroom.
Nico: What?
Amber: (Angry) Bathroom now before I give you another black eye and this time it will leave you half blind!
(Nico scurries back to the bathroom in fear and closes the door. Levi looks at Amber in shock)
Levi: O-okay before you go judging we are not back together. He propositioned me with sex and I…took it. It's a crappy time for all of us and sex is a quick remedy for that. Taryn says that the Netherlands suggest a…designated sex partner for the pandemic. And I am taking advice from a country that ranks highly in the World Happiness Index. Plus, it's not like I can go out and find someone new, it's war time Amber and I have needs just like you.
Amber: (Sighs and shakes her head)
Levi: Please say something so I know-
(Amber silently hands the bag of food to Levi who looks at it confused)
Amber: (Disdain) Take yours and mine you will need it later trust me.
Levi: Amber-
Amber: No don't say you have needs again because you don't need this no one needs this.
Levi: Needs what? Sex?
Amber: No, no one needs the giddy updraft that comes before the fall that goes farther every time you get back together with Kim. And once again I am the one who has to catch you when this goes bad because he has made it more than clear he's not going to.
Levi: Since when are you a relationship expert?
Amber: (Frustrated) I am an expert on this relationship because it's all I ever hear about from you. You're sleeping with your ex who dumped you and refuses to even have a conversation with you unless it brings you down further and…I'm done.
Levi: What do you mean your done?
Amber: I am done hearing about how Kim hurt you or how great he is in bed. I am still your friend but if you feel the need to talk about when and how this inevitably breaks you again keep it to yourself, please. I had my problems with DeLuca but even I know when it's time to call it quits on a toxic relationship. I'm done, I'm out, I quit.
(Amber leaves Levi in the doorway who looks at her shocked but closes the door)
FLASHBACK TO 2010
SCENE: WOMENS HEALTH CLINIC
(A 23-year-old Jo sits on an exam table holding her sore wrist after Paul thew her across the room last night. She sees a female doctor entering the room)
Dr. Wilson: Hi Brooke Stadler? I'm Dr. Wilson I'll be conducting your procedure today, how are you feeling today?
Jo: Um a little nervous to be honest, it's my first time doing this.
Dr. Wilson: That's completely normal, I understand that you're a med student at Harvard? (Jo nods) Then I'm sure you understand how this procedure works. We inject a numbing medication into your cervix so you don't feel anything. Then I insert dilating rods around your opening-
Jo: I-I know the nurse already put them in and you insert a thin tube through my cervix and remove the tissue. I know that after I rest until I feel better.
Dr. Wilson: Yes, is there someone who can drive you home?
Jo: No, it's just me but I'll be fine.
Dr. Wilson: Are you sure? This procedure can be a heavy toll on a woman who has doubts about whether they want to terminate the pregnancy or not. Are you absolutely sure you can drive yourself home after this?
Jo: …I'm sure.
Dr. Wilson: Okay and the procedure are you absolutely sure this is the option you want to take? Have you considered the other ones? Like adoption or raising the child? I'm just making sure you have thought this through, have you?
Jo: …I've considered my options Dr. Wilson. I…I don't want a baby right now and not just because I don't feel ready. The father…isn't a good man and I know that he would hurt this baby if he felt slighted at all.
Dr. Wilson: Mrs. Stadler if you are being abused you can tell me and I can help you.
Jo: (Knows there's no safe way away from Paul) No he's not in the picture anymore…but I don't want to give him a reason to come back into my life. I know I can't raise a baby in that fear and danger if I can help it. I am sure this is what I feel I have to do. Thank you, Dr. Wilson, but I am sure of my choice right now and I don't have any doubts about that.
Dr. Wilson: Okay I can tell you've considered your options and that you can drive home. Lie back for me please.
(Jo exhales and lies back on the exam table closing her eyes as Dr. Wilson gets to work)
FLASHBACK TO THE PRESENT
(Jo wakes up from her dream and finds herself in bed. She sighs at the memory and touches her stomach. Jo then gets out of bed to go to her next shift)
CUT TO GREY SLOAN THE NEXT MORNING
SCENE: SECOND FLOOR
(Sara Ortiz tries to control her breathing due to her fear as she approaches Chee calmly. Andrew is at the station a few feet away)
Sara: Hey Chee, I need a favor, I'll do your scut for a week, two weeks.
Chee: (Shakes his head as he knows what she wants)
Sara: And before you say no, I just want to say I think your very smart and brave for starting work during covid. And I'm not just buttering you up so you don't say no.
Chee: No, hell no.
Sara: What? You don't even know what I was gonna ask.
Chee: Yes, I do I am not going anywhere near the Kraken for you, I want to live to see 2020 end. So, I will say it again no.
(Andrew looks up interested over the Kraken term)
Sara: Come on I screwed up the discharge paperwork she left me and if I tell her she is gonna kill me. I am not kidding she will kill me in the middle of the floor and get you to mop up the mess.
Andrew: (Clears throat) What are you two talking about? And what is the 'Kraken'?
Sara: (Intimidated) Um…It's just uh something we call…one of the residents we answer to.
Andrew: (Raises eyebrow) Which one?
Sara: …Dr. Karev.
Andrew: (Eyebrows lift in surprise)
Sara: It's-It's nothing against her she's a great doctor and surgeon it's just uh we call her the Kraken because-
Chee: (Blunt) Because she's a monster who will drag us to our watery doom if she wants to…with all due respect sir.
(Andrew is silent for a moment before laughing at the nickname to Sara and Chee's surprise)
Sara: I'm-I'm sorry we don't mean to insult her or anything.
Andrew: (Grins) Nope that is a very fitting name for her trust me. Hand me the discharge paperwork and I'll report it to her. She won't drag me down the water like she'll do to the two of you.
Sara: (Relieved) Thank you.
(Andrew grins at her fear as he walks away)
CUT TO THE FOURTH FLOOR
(Amber is speaking to Alma Ortiz who has not discharged her patient)
Amber: (Disdain) You were supposed to discharge Ms. Oliva an hour ago.
Alma: I was going to but I need authorization from her primary surgeon, where is Dr. Grey?
Amber: (Inhales sharply) Dr. Grey is up in the covid ward with ground glass opacities and a pulse ox of 85. (Alma looks shocked) Ms. Oliva's primary is Dr. Jo Karev who is up in the fifth floor covering Dr. Grey's service which is something you should've known before slow rolling Ms. Oliva's discharge.
Alma: I-I am so sorry I didn't know.
(Amber makes a low growl sound deep in her throat in frustration as she glares at Alma with scary eyes. Alma's eyes widen in fear)
Alma: B-But I should have and I apologize for that, I-It won't happen ag-
Amber: (Angry) Go to Jo Karev and get her to discharge Ms. Oliva before she gets infected because you didn't know any better.
Alma: Y-Y-Yes ma'am I-I will do that right-
Amber: (Angry) Go!
(Alma runs away from Amber in fear and passes an amused Andrew who approaches Amber as she fills out charts)
Andrew: Wow and here I thought mama Ortiz would be harder for you to break. I have the discharge paperwork you left little Ortiz apparently, she messed it up.
Amber: (Groans in anger) I swear I am going to line up each of the interns and play blind archery see which one I hit.
Nico: I see your living up to your nickname.
(Amber turns and scowls at Nico who is by the station)
Amber: Not that I care what you say but what the hell do you mean my nickname?
Nico: (Scared) I've said too much.
Amber: (Spiteful) There's a first you actually saying a sentence.
Nico: (Annoyed) I am gonna go before I get drowned by the Kraken.
(Nico leaves Amber who looks at Andrew confused)
Andrew: (Grins) The interns have a nickname for you, they call you the Kraken. The giant octopus that destroys ships and drowns sailors.
Amber: (Eyes light up) Really?
Andrew: Okay don't take offense this is a good thing; you have to wait till you're a senior resident to get a scary nickname. The fact you got it in your third year says something about your ability to strike fear in the heart of residents. I mean Bailey got Nazi, Grey got Medusa and you're the Kraken.
Amber: (Grins) You can't tell but I'm grinning behind the mask. 'The Kraken' I like it, it makes me sound like I can rip those interns heads off with my bare hands.
Andrew: I don't think you need a nickname to make that known, maybe you could use some of that…Krakeness on Webber so he can approve the protocol for Grey.
Amber: Still apprehensive about it?
Andrew: There's a spot open in Dr. Kuo's trial but we need to act fast and Richard is the only one with the authority to do it.
Amber: Your really worked up about this aren't you?
Andrew: I'm trying not to be but…it's Grey, how can we not be?
Amber: (Sighs) I know but if there's one thing, I've learned from all this death is that you have to disengage. Sometimes you have to tell yourself not to get over involved.
Andrew: Easier said than done.
Amber: Well look to me as an example I'm disengaging. Levi can do whatever he wants, I'm not getting involved in his mess with Kim that ends with Levi having a broken heart while Kim doesn't because he has no heart. I'm not gonna clean up that mess again, he can just…suffer if he wants to.
Andrew: (Gives Amber a strange look)
(Amber chuckles at her bad timing as well as Andrew)
Amber: But we were talking about Grey not me.
Andrew: (Grins) Yeah, we were but uh maybe talking about something other than Grey could help us both. What's Levi doing that's pissing you off?
Amber: (Disgusted) Kim, they're having sex, I caught them last night.
Andrew: They're back together?
Amber: Worse they're having casual sex, like that's not gonna end with Levi sobbing in bed and Kim feeling nothing as usual.
Andrew: I mean…casual sex doesn't sound so bad, it's not like we can go out and date.
Amber: He lied and dumped Levi over having an actual conversation with him. And now they're sleeping together because what the Dutch government recommends it? There's no such thing as casual sex with your ex that just spells disaster and leaves you in bed listening to Celine Dion and eating raw cookie dough in despair.
(Amber groans and notices Andrew giving Amber a knowing look)
Amber: (Catches on) That was different.
Andrew: How? We used to date and we had sex twice after we broke up. How are we any better than Schmitt and Kim?
Amber: We agreed that we were bad for each other and we are not currently having sex. Those two are entangled in a web of endorphins, pain and heartbreak that they can't seem to get out of. We did that we got out and now we are working together effectively and we're friends.
Andrew: Well, how about your three-year casual fling with Rojas? You didn't seem to get out of that based on how you slept with her weeks ago.
Amber: That's different we never dated we just…
Andrew: Had casual sex when you felt like it?
Amber: (Sighs) Are you saying I'm being too hard on him?
Andrew: Your hard on everyone hence your nickname but uh in my opinion as your friend. I think you should ask yourself if Levi did the same thing for you when I broke your heart and if he deserves to have his friend tell him to wallow in pity alone.
Amber: (Groans) Damn it. I am such an ass.
Andrew: (Nods) Just a little bit.
Amber: (Glares at Andrew) Do you know what I hate most about covid?
Andrew: Mass death, economic collapse, the way the disease hasn't changed our screwed-up health care system at all.
Amber: Obviously but also the six feet rule because it keeps me from smacking you and anyone else who annoys the living hell out of me.
Andrew: (Chuckles) Don't worry your making up for it with death stares and verbal assaults. The interns can attest to that. I gotta go check on Grey, good luck Kraken.
(Amber grins as Andrew leaves liking her new nickname more)
FLASHBACK TO 2012
SCENE: PAULS HOUSE
(Jo checks the security camera to make sure Paul isn't coming and grabs her suitcase. She goes to Paul's safe in his office and enters the code. Jo quickly grabs the envelope full of $100,000 and goes to the garage. Jo starts her old car and gets out of the house intent on being free from Paul and their abusive marriage)
CUT TO PRESENT
SCENE: ATTENDINGS LOUNGE
(Jo is on the couch playing with her wedding ring alone in the lounge as she snaps out of the flashback. Amber comes in smiling behind her mask that she takes off and grabs a juice from the fridge)
Amber: (Exhales in content) Call me the Kraken.
Jo: (Confused) What?
(Amber smiles as she sits across from Jo drinking her orange juice)
Amber: I have established dominance in my career, finally! The interns are so scared of me that they made up a nickname for familiarity of how much of a terrifying figure I am. Guess what that nickname is.
Jo: (Amused) The Kraken?
Amber: (Happy) The Kraken! I am linked to a mythical sea creature that drowned sailors as it destroyed boats. I am the scary resident they feel the need to nickname. It's like Christmas came early Jo and I am on Santa's nice list for once.
Jo: (Grins) I'm so happy for you, at least one good thing happened to you in 2020.
Amber: (Shrugs) That plus me being an auntie again, I won't say which trumps what.
(Jo looks down at her hands with a conflicted look on her face. Amber gets off her happy train as she notices Jo's face)
Amber: What's wrong?
Jo: (Tries to save face) Nothing, nothings wrong.
Amber: Jo it's me, you don't have to force yourself to be normal for me. What's going on?
Jo: …Um it's feelings that I'm having from…finding out I'm pregnant.
Amber: (Looks down in guilt) Jo…I'm sorry I haven't even asked if you wanted to keep this baby I just assumed.
Jo: What?
Amber: Look I'm not gonna pressure you to continue this pregnancy if you're having second thoughts. I get it we're in a worldwide pandemic, your husband is in another state, and you just found out you have two step kids from his previous wife. I get how that can make you feel conflicted and I won't object if you choose not to have this baby. But I just want you to know that even with Alex gone and him having two kids you don't have to worry about yourself or this baby. It's a messed-up world but it was already messed up before this year and nothing is gonna change that. All we can do is find some joy when we can and…and I think this is a joy we just found even if you don't think so. I'm not gonna shove my beliefs down your throat it's your body and your choice and I will support you if you choose not to keep it.
Jo: …Thank you but that's not the issue. I want this baby Amber; the world is screwed up but it was already screwed up and this pregnancy is the first happy feeling I've had in a long time. I would never want to terminate something that's a result of me and Alex's love during difficult times, that's not an issue here.
Amber: Okay then what is? You can tell me I won't judge and if you want, I won't tell Alex. Come on unload on your favorite sister.
Jo: (Inhales and exhales) I'm seven weeks pregnant, hearing that I was at seven weeks brought me back…back to the last time I was pregnant.
(Amber's mouth gapes slightly in shock, she moves to sit next to Jo who sighs at the memory)
Amber: (Calm voice) What?
Jo: (Tries to find the right words) …I was in my second year of Harvard med when I found out I was pregnant…with Paul's baby. I was 23 and scared at the time not just because of me being pregnant but also because of him. By that time, we were married for three years and during that time he cracked my ribs seven times and made my ears ring when he punched me in the face for a fourth time.
(Jo's breath shudders as her memories come back. Amber holds Jo's hand to comfort her)
Jo: (Slightly calmer) Um I was seven weeks pregnant when Paul cracked my ribs and threw me across the living room floor. He saw me talking to a male neighbor and accused me of sleeping around. He didn't know I was pregnant I only found out a few days before but I knew in that moment that he could never know. I didn't see a way out back then, a way out of my marriage and out of the pain. I knew that if I tried to leave, he would kill me. But I also knew I couldn't have a baby in that environment, I couldn't be responsible for Paul hurting an innocent life. So…I went to a clinic and had an abortion.
Amber: (Sees the connection) You were seven weeks when you terminated weren't you?
Jo: (Nods) When I heard Carina say seven weeks, I was…
Amber: Triggered?
Jo: Yeah, I was triggered, my mind has been going back to the week I found out I was pregnant and had my abortion.
Amber: Jo you have nothing to be ashamed of, you did what you felt you had to do. You shouldn't-
Jo: I'm not ashamed Amber. I know that I did what I had to do and I made the right decision at the time. I guess finding out that I'm pregnant is making me remember what I did and why I did it. I never told anybody about this.
Amber: Nobody?
Jo: (Ashamed) …There is one, I told my birth mother when I met her. I don't know why I did the best that I can come up with was feeling like sharing about my unwanted pregnancy after hearing about how I was unwanted. I mean seeing Alex so happy has me feeling guilty of how he wasn't the first person I told this to. I don't know how he would react finding out I was pregnant by my bastard ex after all these years but I know that I still feel awful for not telling him. I…I don't know why I haven't told him about this despite the fact that I don't feel shame for what I did. Why haven't I told him?
(Amber stays silent for a few moments as she drinks her juice)
Amber: Jo…I don't think it was shame that kept you quiet about this I think it was self-preservation.
Jo: (Looks at her in thought)
Amber: You had to run away from Paul and hide for years. You changed your name and moved across the country to get away from him. You forced yourself not to tell anyone about your past and that includes your abortion. It's a part of a past your tried so hard to get away from. And you felt like you couldn't tell anyone about it or Paul would find out and kill you.
Jo: But I told Alex about Paul, so why didn't I tell him about this back then? Or when Paul died?
Amber: Um…I guess it was hard for you to take down your guard completely. By that time, it was hard wired in you not to tell anyone.
Jo: But I told my mom and I'm telling you. Why is that?
Amber: (Sighs) …I-I don't know. I guess you were so overwhelmed with meeting your mother and…finding out about your father that you felt vulnerable and your shield was down. You let your guard down completely for a little bit and you felt you could tell her at the time as for me…I guess this pregnancy is dropping your guard again and you feel like you can tell me.
Jo: (Sniffles) Maybe your right, maybe I was feeling vulnerable when I met my mom and finding out about this baby is opening me up again. Do you…Do you think I should tell Alex?
Amber: (Treads carefully) I'm not gonna tell you what I think you should do Jo, that's your decision to make. But if you feel like you should and you can, then maybe that's your answer.
(Jo sniffles and wipes her tears away as Amber rubs her back to comfort her)
LATER THAT NIGHT AT THE RESIDENTS LOUNGE
(Amber is the last one in the room. She puts her black mask on getting ready to leave when Carina comes in)
Carina: Amber do you have a minute?
Amber: Um I'm getting ready to leave Carina is something wrong? (Fears the worst) Was there something in Jo's scans?
Carina: No, no nothing is wrong with the baby I didn't come here for that.
Amber: Okay what did you come here for?
Carina: I came here to apologize to you about what I said after Dr. Webber's surgery, about Andrea.
Amber: (Shakes her head) You don't have to do this.
Carina: No, I do, I feel bad for how I made it seem like you didn't do enough for Andrea I…I was worried that day and I took it out on you and I am sorry. I want you to know that I appreciate everything you've done for my brother. He would be fired or worse if it wasn't for you and I am grateful for what you've done. I am grateful that he had someone like you to help him. I will always be grateful for what you've done to save my brother, thank you. I am so sorry I didn't show it to you that day.
Amber: (Nods gratefully) Well thank you, I did what I thought was best for the man that I loved. I accept your apology; you have a good night, Carina.
(Amber walks to leave when Carina says something else)
Carina: That baby is lucky to have an aunt like you in its life. Most of my patient's family members just stand by and watch but you make sure that Jo and that baby are healthy. I know that baby will grow up fantastic having a role model like you in its life.
Amber: (Grins) Well I certainly hope so because God knows Jo and Alex are gonna screw up so many times that they need a stable figure to keep that baby sane.
(Carina chuckles)
Amber: (Chuckles) Yeah good night, Carina, I'll see you tomorrow.
Carina: Good night.
(Amber leaves the lounge)
LATER THAT NIGHT IN AMBERS BASEMENT
(Amber sits on her couch getting snack and setting up her tv with the movie for the night. Levi comes down)
Levi: You texted me 911? Is this about Nico? Are you gonna yell at me and call me an idiot?
Amber: (Calmly hands him chips) No I am not.
Levi: (Confused) …Okay are you gonna tell me again not to talk to you about Nico?
Amber: (Calmly sits on the couch) No I am not.
Levi: …This feels like a jedi mind trick.
Amber: Levi you were there for me during the fallout of my relationship with Andrew. You held me and let me cry on you twice in one day. I have unloaded on you and you listened without complaint. It's only fair that I do the same for you so…when this thing with Nico leaves you heartbroken again, I will be there to pick you up.
Levi: I don't want to burden you.
Amber: You're not a burden, you're my best friend you're my person and one of the few people keeping me sane right now. I want to help you like you've helped me because you've more than earned it. And until the day you need me comes (Pats on the couch) which Sandler movie are we watching tonight?
Levi: (Grins gratefully) Something with Drew Barrymore?
Amber: Done, 50 First Dates it is. I'm not choosing Wedding Singer because it's cliché as hell.
(Levi chuckles and sits next to Amber who plays the movie)
SCENE: ALEX AND JOS BEDROOM
(Jo takes a deep breath sitting against the headboard. She opens her laptop and sends Alex a Zoom request; he answers with his hotel room as the background)
Jo: Hey, I was hoping you'd still be at the hotel when I called.
Alex: Hey, yeah, I am. I'm just getting some shut eye before my shift tomorrow but I have time to talk to my glowing wife, what's up?
Jo: (Inhales) I need to tell you something, it's something I feel like I should've told you years ago but I couldn't not then at least. I know that a computer screen is not ideal for revealing old scars but there's no other option and I want to do this while I'm still brave.
Alex: (Supportive) Okay tell me, I'm sure it's not any more shocking than finding out I have kids. Whatever it is I can handle it Jo and I'll still love you nothing is gonna change that.
Jo: (Grins lovingly) I know that, now more than ever…10 years ago I was pregnant with Paul's baby. I was pregnant when we were married and by then it was…it was bad, it was painful. I was seven weeks when Paul hit me again and after that I knew I couldn't have a baby in that fear and danger. At the time with what was happening and with him being the father I…I couldn't keep it, I just couldn't. (Alex keeps a composed face) Finding out that I'm seven weeks pregnant right now has my mind flashing back to that time in my life. And the reason I haven't told you or anyone this is because I felt like I couldn't with Paul out there and looking for me. I was trying everything I could to stay alive and that includes being quiet about my past including this, especially this. And…and after Paul died, I told my mother because I was overwhelmed at that time and my need to protect myself shut down for a little bit. I felt like I couldn't tell you not just because it was in my nature but because of how good you are with kids. I was afraid you would leave me for terminating the fetus especially after seeing how good you are with the twins. (Alex rubs his eyes) I was scared to tell you for lots of reasons but you deserve to know especially when we're having a baby together. My past is ugly and my choices back then are considered heinous by some people and I would get it if you want to judge me for what I did. I just wanted to let you know because I feel like you should know and…I'm hoping that you still love me after this.
(Alex sighs and leans back in his bed)
Alex: …I'm-I'm processing, this is a lot so please give me a minute.
(Jo nods and waits a few silent moments for Alex to process. He leans forward looking at Jo with kind eyes)
Alex: First of all, thank you for telling me this, I know it wasn't easy for you. Secondly, I don't hold what you did against you. I know you did what you felt you had to do at the time and I don't blame you. And third…I love you; this doesn't change that it just lets me know about you more and I still love you. I want a family with you, I want you, Alexis, Eli and this baby to be the family that we never got to have. I guess the only question is, do you want that too?
Jo: (Tears up and sniffles) Yes, I want that. I want to raise the twins with you and I want to raise this baby with you. I don't care how were gonna do it or how long it takes until you get here as long as we have that. I love you so much, I love you more everyday which I didn't think was possible. I want to have this baby because it's a symbol of you and me and our love. And having it at this time is just more proof that our love can get through anything.
Alex: (Grins and nods) Yeah it is and I am so happy to have this symbol with you.
Jo: (Chuckles) Hopefully it's the first of many symbols.
Alex: (Grins) Oh it will be trust me…Are you okay?
Jo: (Nods) I am, more than I have been in a while, thank you. I love you so much.
Alex: I love you (Groans) God I wish I could kiss you right now and hold you tonight.
Jo: (Sighs in sadness) I know…but maybe we can sleep next to each other tonight.
Alex: How?
Jo: This is how.
(Jo smiles as she lays her laptop on the other side of the bed. Jo lies on her side with her head on her pillow facing the laptop. Alex chuckles at Jo's improvisation)
Jo: Shut up do you have a better idea?
(Alex grins at Jo before doing the same thing facing the laptop as he lies in bed)
Alex: Best idea you've ever had.
Jo: (Grins) I know right? It doesn't beat the real thing though.
Alex: (Looks at Jo lovingly) Don't worry, the real thing will happen soon. I promise, I love you, good night.
Jo: I love you, good night.
(Alex and Jo both lie in bed in different states facing each other with the laptops. They sleep peacefully)
CUT TO BLACK
SCENE: HOTEL IN BALDWIN CITY, KANSAS
(Alex wakes up in bed to find the laptop in front of him. Jo is on the screen still asleep facing him. Alex grins at his wife before it falls at their current situation. Alex checks his watch and see's it's 3 AM. He looks up at the ceiling in thought for a few moments before deciding what he has to do. Alex gets up and gets dressed with Jo still asleep. After getting ready he types a message to Jo saying, 'Good morning, I have an early shift, I'll see you tonite though, I love you.'. Alex grabs his keys and walks out of his room)
TO BE CONTINUED
STAY TUNED FOR PART 2 WHICH I WILL UPLOAD NEXT WEEK.