HEY GUYS HERE'S ANOTHER CHAPTER. I'M SORRY FOR BEING THREE WEEKS LATE I'VE JUST BEEN BUSY STUDYING FOR TEACHING CERTIFICATION BUT I'M STILL HERE AND STILL WRITING. I HOPE YOU ENJOY THIS AND REVIEWS AND COMMENTS ARE ALWAYS WELCOME GUYS, LET ME KNOW IF I SHOULD LET JOLEX ADOPT BABY LUNA OR IF FOUR KIDS IS TOO MUCH. OH AND HAPPY FATHERS DAY!
Chapter 25: Drive Thru
SCENE: ANDREWS BEDROOM
(Amber wakes up on her side of the bed and rolls on her back with her arm reaching over Andrew's side only to feel nothing. She looks over and sees Andrew is not in bed. Amber sits up looking at the empty space confused)
LATER
SCENE: ALEX AND JO'S KITCHEN
(Levi is sitting on the table drinking his coffee and eating an apple. Jo walks in carrying a scrapbook surprised to see him there)
Jo: Hey what are you doing here? You have your own place that was once ours.
Levi: Morning I'm here to carpool with Alex today. Station 19 turned their barn into a drive through covid testing facility and me, Alex and Carina are gonna help out today. Didn't he tell you?
Jo: No but then again, we've both been so busy with work, getting to know our kids, pregnancy, helping our loved ones recover from a car crash. It's been pretty hectic for a 'how was your day honey?'
Levi: (Sips coffee) Don't forget the ex in town.
Jo: (Sits next to Levi) Right because that's easy to forget. (Looks at the scrapbook) Wow, now I see it.
Levi: See what?
Jo: I've been looking at old photos of Alex, see if there's a resemblance to Nick and look.
(Jo shows Levi a photo of an 18-year-old Alex at his graduation with the same chiseled looks as Nick. Levi groans at the resemblance)
Levi: Are you trying to make this more horrific for me?
Jo: (Grins amused) Oh come on it's not that horrible. (Levi glares at Jo) It's not, if you dated Aaron then it would be horrible because they grew up with him it's different with Nick. He's a stranger right now not their brother.
Levi: Amber's like my sister and Nick is (Looks at Alex's photo sighing) clearly her brother.
Jo: Yeah, I have to admit it is kind of weird.
Levi: And the fact that Alex doesn't know I dated his brother, it's a lot weird.
Jo: You haven't talked to Nick since it all went down?
Levi: I tried but he blew me off and I'm still trying to wrap my head around this.
Jo: So why are you volunteering at the fire station he works at?
Levi: It was a couple weeks ago before we knew about this messed up connection. He told me, he said they needed as much help as they can get and I said I would help out. I wanted to be nice and see the place he works at but now I have to relive those cringy Riverdale episodes me and Amber made fun of.
Jo: (Stands up to grab a banana) Well it doesn't have to be cringe Schmitt you just have to ask yourself this. Is he your boyfriend or is he your BFF's brother?
Amber: (Walks in) Ah yes, the age-old question.
Jo: Yeah, that's right it's a story as old as time. Boy meets boy, boy likes boy, boy finds out boy is his best friends' half-brother.
Levi: (Eats apple in despair)
Amber: I think it's too soon to joke even for a Karev. (Hushed voice) And unless you want someone beat up in your house again let's keep things quiet around Alex.
Levi: (Sighs) I just don't know what to do.
Amber: Have you talked to Nick?
Levi: Nah he said he wanted me to stay out of it so I'm staying out of it.
Amber: (Grins) God knows you're in deep as it is.
Jo: (Chuckles)
Levi: You are both horrible and that's your brother you're talking about.
Alex: (Comes in) Oh yeah which brother? It's hard to keep track nowadays.
Amber: (Clear throat) Aaron, I'm just telling them about the time I threw mudpies at him when we were little and how he had to go to the eyewash station.
Alex: Really? I thought this week's topic was the half-brother we just discovered.
Jo: (Grins) Well we've all had our fill of Nick isn't that right Levi?
Levi: (Chuckles awkwardly) Y-Yeah, I mean it's all any of you have talked about.
Amber: (Decides to show mercy) Speaking of family where are the kids?
Alex: It's a Saturday so their upstairs sleeping in, it's my favorite time of the day. Izzie's gonna take them over to Meredith's, she thought it might boost morale over there.
Jo: Yeah, Webber is monitoring Grey today.
Amber: No change?
Alex: Webber is doing a scan later so we'll see. In the meantime, I am volunteering to stick swabs up people's noses in a firehouse.
Jo: Yeah, you're not coming near this house until you've taken a silkwood shower.
Alex: They have those over at the station, don't worry.
Amber: Has Nick said anything about you coming to his workplace?
Alex: I haven't told him I'm trying to give him space so he can process this whole thing. You guys agreed to start as friends so that's what I'm doing.
Amber: That is very mature Alex, I'm guessing those twins are rubbing off on you.
Alex: Yeah, I was thinking about maybe inviting him over here for a friendly drink what do you think? It's gonna be a long day and the station is gonna be packed. Maybe a night of unwinding would be a good start.
Jo: Yeah, as long as he tests negative, I'm all for it, Amber?
Amber: Sure, Levi do you want to come?
Levi: (Glares at her) Um I don't want to intrude on a uh family moment.
Alex: Come on Schmitt as much as I hate it, you're as much a part of this family same as any of us. Who knows maybe you and Nick will get along like you and Amber.
Amber: (Silently snicker out of Alex's view at Levi's misery)
Levi: I'll uh I'll think about it.
Jo: (Grins) We should go come on Amber; good luck today be safe. (Kisses Alex)
Alex: You too.
(Jo and Amber calmly walk out of the house. As soon as they head out front, they burst out laughing as they walk to Jo's car)
LATER
SCENE: STATION 19
(Nick and Ben set up the testing kits on the table. Alex approaches them)
Alex: Hey how many tests have we got?
Nick: 500, medical personnel are gonna bring more later.
Alex: Okay how much later? Because we could run out before lunch so…
Ben: Karev we're doing as much as we can and this is our first pandemic testing event so when we have more tests, we'll let you know.
Alex: Okay thanks I'll be over here getting barked at by Carina while you swab people's noses.
Nick: Any chance you want to switch?
Alex: (Chuckles) Trust me with the mood she's in you would regret it. Let me know if you need any help, you guys.
(Alex leaves to go talk to the press with Carina)
Ben: Things are good with you two?
Nick: I mean it's the first real conversation we had since me and Amber made up and we haven't made snide comments so that's something.
Ben: Have you told your mom about this?
Nick: Not until I figured out if this is something I should explain with a text or phone call because both methods end with me on the other side of an angry rant.
Ben: Well, she's your family but they're yours too.
Nick: To her they are the kids of the man who ruined her life so it's complicated. (Groans) Damn it they forget to stack the gloves here.
Ben: We have more in the supply closet.
Nick: Thanks, I'll be right back.
TRANSITION TO HALLWAY
(Nick carries a box full of gloves down the hall and stops when he sees Levi heading toward the closet in his direction)
Nick: …Hi.
Levi: Hi um I just came to get more swabs. The line outside goes all the way to the bridge so we need as many as we can get.
Nick: Yeah, they're in the closet I'll show you.
(Nick leads Levi to the closet where he points out the swabs)
Levi: Thanks, from me and the city of Seattle.
Nick: No problem.
Levi: Um look I wanted to call you and see how you were it's just-
Nick: No, I'm glad you didn't, I needed some alone time to process all of this. But I do want to apologize to you though about the way I left things that night. I wasn't in the right frame of mind to consider what this meant for us.
Levi: Nick, I get it, we were both really, really traumatized from what we found out. I'm still trying to move past this. I'm even considering intense psychotherapy and shock treatment. And look I get it if you don't want to hang out anymore.
Nick: I-I do I do want to hang out with you again. I mean I was worried about running into them but now that I'm getting to know them that's not an issue anymore…unless you don't want to hang out anymore.
Levi: (Uncertain) Um…I'm still wrapping my brain around this and did I mention the possibility of shock treatment?
Nick: You did.
Levi: Look Nick, I like you I do it's just…we have to find neutral ground here.
Nick: Yeah, I mean we can't hang out at the hospital because that's where you work and they gossip around and we can't hang out here today-
Levi: Because your brother's here?
Nick: (Chuckles uneasily) He's not my um…well I mean I guess technically he is but…
Levi: Just so I can be clear on what everybody is to everybody: you and the Karev's?
Nick: Friends, they're my friends.
Levi: (Nods) And me and you?
Nick: …More than friends?
Levi: More than friends.
Nick: And definitely not related trust me on that.
Levi: (Lies) The thought hadn't crossed my mind.
Nick: (Smiles) Good.
(Carina knocks on the door glaring at both of them)
Carina: What are you two doing? We have patients outside let's go!
Nick: (Scared) Yes ma'am.
Levi: Sorry Dr. DeLuca.
(Levi and Nick run out of the closet)
MEANWHILE
SCENE: TESTING TENT
(Amber walks away from a patient she tested groaning at using the last kit, she approaches Jackson)
Amber: I've used all my kits, the turnout is really high today.
Jackson: Relax She-Karev. We have more in the van. If we run low, we can run over to the drive through site at Station 19.
Amber: (Exhales in relief) Wow it looks like things are looking up, how did we get more kits for both sites?
Jackson: Twenty hours of virtual meetings with the Fox Foundation, convincing them it's the right thing to do that's how.
Amber: What you don't just ask your mom?
(Amber chuckles but stops as Jackson glares at her)
Amber: I'm gonna get more kits.
(Amber walks away and runs into Andrew outside where he is berating Sara Ortiz)
Andrew: Ortiz when I tell you to run the labs for John Henson, I mean specifically for John Henson! I almost told him his thyroid is over the hormone levels when the labs you sent in his name were for Haley Garcia!
Sara: I-I'm sorry I'm helping with the testing tent and I haven't slept in over 16 hours-
Andrew: And you didn't think that comes with the job? What is wrong with you? I am asking seriously what is wrong with you, Ortiz?!
Sara: (Scared) I-I just-
Amber: (Steps in) Ortiz just go back to the tent I'll get Khan to take your place go!
(Sara runs away from an angry Andrew. Amber stands in front of him)
Amber: I think our roles are supposed to be I'm the one interns run away from in fear and you're the one they like. Is everything okay?
Andrew: (Stressed) No I have enough on my mind as it is I don't need some overworked intern adding more to it.
Amber: (Looks at him concerned)
Andrew: (Sighs) I'm sorry I just-
Amber: I know we're all going though it…I woke up this morning and you weren't there. I had to get a ride with Jo.
Andrew: Yeah, I'm sorry I uh I had an errand and I couldn't miss it.
Amber: Okay and here I thought me being in your bed was disrupting your sleep schedule.
Andrew: (Smirks) No, if anything you being there makes me sleep more soundly.
Amber: Yeah, well you better because that means I need work. I gotta get more kits please don't scare any more interns.
Andrew: (Teases) Because that's your job?
Amber: Exactly.
(Amber grins and walks away from Andrew who smirks)
LATER AT STATION 19
(Nick gives the tests to Alex)
Alex: How many did you test so far?
Nick: 50 and it's not even noon, can you develop a nose fetish in one day because I think I am.
Alex: (Chuckles) Dude that sentence is wrong in so many ways.
Nick: Don't look at me Hughes made that joke first. Listen man thanks for coming in but you don't have to be here to help me I'm trained to run into exploding buildings I can handle germs.
Alex: Don't flatter yourself, I volunteered to help out weeks ago. The peds floor is quiet and these guys saved Amber's life so it's the least I can do.
Nick: Okay good.
Alex: Look man I know there's no right way to do this. Hallmark doesn't exactly make a-
Travis: (Behind them) Happy surprise brother card?
Nick: (Clipped tone) Yeah thanks Montgomery the commentary isn't necessary.
Alex: (Clipped tone) Yeah you can go.
Travis: (Turns around and says to Ben) Wow those two are so related.
Alex: Anyways I know you're not on the market for any new relatives but how about a friend? I was thinking that maybe you could come over to my house and we can have a drink with Amber. She's working at the testing site back at the hospital so she's gonna be exhausted like us. What do you say?
(Klaxons sound)
Dispatch: Engine 19, Ladder 19, Aid Car 19. Two car motor vehicle crash, Railroad Avenue.
Nick: (Takes off gown) That's me I gotta go, we'll talk later.
Alex: Yeah go, good luck.
(Nick runs out to the engine)
LATER IN THE AID CAR
(Nick is in the back while Vic and Ben are driving)
Vic: So Chief Gregory came by the station, he wanted to talk to Miller about the lawsuit.
Ben: I'm guessing it wasn't to commend him for it?
Vic: More like reprimand, he thinks the lawsuit is just gonna make things worse.
Nick: And you know it's hard to argue with him when he was one of the few black firefighters in a time worse than ours.
Vic: Yep, he thinks that Miller should play the game in the long run instead of doing something about it right now. I know you have facts and evidence to back that up like last time.
Nick: …I do but I know that facts are what's stopping us from making real change. If there's even a chance that Miller can make it so Jada and Shanice get the justice they deserve and force the change PD needs then I say do it.
Vic: (Surprised) Wow newbie where is this glass half full talk coming from? Did you take some happy pills?
Nick: I'm just saying nothing changes if nothing changes.
Ben: Yeah he's right, you and Miller were there not us so let me ask you this, do you think playing the long game is the best thing for those poor girls?
(They arrive at the scene)
Vic: Let's go. Evans get the gear.
(Nick grabs the medical gear and gets out with Ben and Vic. Vic approaches the truck driver)
Driver: I…I-I thought I saw something.
Vic: Okay, sir, you shouldn't move, alright? Here, come with me.
Andy: The call was two vehicles?
Maya: Must be a hit-and-run.
Karissa: Help!
Sullivan: Captain!
(Andy and Maya head to the back of the truck where they find a small car crushed inside the back)
Andy: Whoa. How did that happen?
Shayne: We can't move!
Sullivan: The car's frame is made of ultra-high-strength steel.
Andy: Damn it, our tools won't work on it.
Maya: Dispatch, this is 19. We need two additional aid cars and USAR ASAP.
Sullivan: (Recognizes them) You're the newlyweds.
LATER
SCENE: HOSPITAL HALLWAY
(Jo and Amber are talking while Amber gets supplies for the testing tent)
Jo: (Sighs) I asked Alex to make a dying will this morning.
Amber: (Busy) Okay is this because of covid or because you want to make sure he leaves you money when he dies.
Jo: (Glares at her) I'm gonna take that up to you being stressed. I want to make sure the kids are taken care of in case anything happens and a lot of things are happening. Never mind covid there's the murder hornets, the fires, Kobe Bryant, it's been nonstop so far.
Amber: Why are you including Kobe? You're not a sports fan.
Jo: Well Alex was nearly in tears when he heard and when he's upset, I'm upset.
Amber: Okay so what did he say about the will?
Jo: He says he wants to think about it which in his dictionary means avoid it for now.
Amber: Well not all of us are ready to plan our deaths Jo even in a deadly time.
Jo: You did, you had Altman make a will for you.
Amber: Yes, but unlike my brother I'm smart.
(Jo chuckles and stops when she hears yelling. They turn to find Andrew at the end of the hall berating Chee)
Andrew: You don't make promises to patients when you're not even the one holding the scalpel! Do you understand? Nod do not speak!
Chee: (Nods fearfully)
Amber: (Goes back to the supplies) Wow am I like that towards the interns?
Jo: (Instantly) Yes.
Amber: You know you could have taken at least one second to think so I don't feel so much like a monster.
Jo: They call you The Kraken you should feel like a monster. What's going on in your end? Did you guys have a personality switch or something?
Amber: He's extra pissy today and no it's not mania.
Jo: I didn't say that.
Amber: Well, it's not, he took his meds last night and he got seven hours of sleep. (Sighs) I gotta go back to the tent.
(Amber walks away from Jo who races after her)
Jo: Wait what about my thing? Don't you have any advice on how to get Alex to do the will?
Amber: Practice with someone and see how they take it.
Jo: Oh! Why don't you be him and I'll be me?
Amber: How about I be me and get back to the testing tent?
Jo: He's my husband Amber I don't want to piss him off. God this is so stressful!
Amber: Well so is pissing off Avery.
Jo: (Checks phone alert) Oh, crap trauma. I gotta go.
(Jo walks away from Amber who looks at her frustrated)
Amber: I had to go first!
(Amber rolls her eyes and walks in the opposite direction)
LATER AT THE BARN
(Alex and Carina go over their supplies by the table)
Carina: Are we still good on kits?
Alex: Yeah, we have enough for the entire west coast.
Carina: (Sighs) It's the first good news I've had today.
Alex: What do you mean?
Carina: Nothing, let's just get these tests shipped out.
(Alex and Carina both carry used tests and head to the biohazard bins when Travis approaches them)
Travis: Hey, Dr. DeLuca, Dr. Karev I-
Carina: Call me Carina.
Alex: And keep calling me Dr. Karev.
Travis: Sure. Carina, Dr. Karev. Um, my-my parents are here, and they need a test.
Carina: Which car?
Travis: They're out front.
Carina: That's not the protocol.
Alex: Yeah, she's right I'm sorry but they have to be in line like everyone else.
Travis: (Embarrassed) Right, I know. Um, but it's a little bit of a delicate situation because-Funny story. My dad…he's in the closet, and he might have been exposed by one of his secret male lovers.
(Alex and Carina look at him surprised. Carina grabs two testing kits and hands them to Travis)
Travis: Thank you. I'm-I'm really sorry.
Carina: (Intrigued) Don't be sorry. Just come tell me everything when they leave.
Travis: Okay.
(Travis leaves them Alex chuckles lightly)
Alex: Man, and I thought the hospital had drama.
Carina: (Chuckles) Right?
(Carina freezes as she sees something from inside the lobby. Alex looks and sees Gibson inside the captain's office with Inara and Marcus)
Alex: What's up? Is something wrong?
Carina: (Sighs and walks to the table with Alex) Maybe but I'm not sure. It's Maya's office and I'm wondering what Jack is doing in there.
Alex: Well, he is a lieutenant, maybe Maya gave him the office to work in.
Carina: Yes, he is a lieutenant but he is also Maya's ex-boyfriend.
Alex: Ah got it watching the person you love work with her ex can be difficult. I don't speak from experience, but Jo has that right now.
Carina: Right but did you sleep with Izzie while you were seeing Jo? Because that's what Maya and Jack did.
Alex: (Wide eyes) Oh yeah that's different. Do you want me to kick his ass?
Carina: (Flattered and chuckles) No I'll let you know though.
Alex: Are you okay? I know it can be hard to forgive someone you love after they betrayed you.
Carina: I'm fine, Maya and I made up and I forgave her it's just…I'm not threatened by Jack I'm really not.
Alex: And why would you be? I mean he's a guy but you're a hot, Italian doctor who studied the female orgasm. I think you got him beat there.
Carina: (Chuckles) Are you always this nice to me and I just never noticed?
Alex: I'm trying to lift your spirits for your sake and everyone else's. I mean no offense Carina but uh…your kind of snapping at everyone like I did intern year. Is this about seeing Jack?
Carina: I told you I am not threatened by him seeing him in Maya's office is upsetting but I am dealing with it it's just… (Groans) everything else.
Alex: Yeah, you and every other doctor is going through that. Jo woke up this morning and asked me if we should have a will set up for me.
Carina: Do you want me to kick her ass?
Alex: (Chuckles) No it's not like that, I'm around Mer's age and she's in the covid ward barely awake. She just wants to add precaution for the kids.
Carina: Are you going to do it?
Alex: (Sighs) What I want to do is enjoy every minute I have with my kids and pick out baby names with my pregnant wife. But the kids have virtual classes and me and Jo are so busy keeping the virus at bay we can't even remember each other's names it's…it's not fair.
Carina: (Nods) I know believe me I know. I mean the hospital where I did my residency, Paolo Calvino, it's in the middle of the hot zone. They have intubated patients sitting in tents in parking lots because the ICUs are full. Doctors are getting sick. They don't have enough nurses. Even firefighters are getting asked to staff the hospitals. And we are going to get there if American's don't start taking this seriously.
Alex: That sounds awful, are you thinking of going home? To help out?
Carina: (Sighs) That is a very complicated question right now. Let's just get to work.
Alex: (Nods) Yeah, I'll take the cars you take the kits. Schmitt! (Levi runs to him) Okay I got the two cars in the barn take two cars behind them. We get more done this way and we limit the carbon monoxide in the building.
Levi: Got it Dr. Karev.
(Levi heads to the police car outside the barn where he sees two officers inside)
Levi: Hey, have you guys had a chance to finish the form?
King: Yeah, I filled them out, I'm officer King the guy next to me is Heller.
Levi: (Looks at the tablet) Okay I've got your form here officer King; can you tilt your head back so I can get a swab sample?
(King leans his head back as Levi puts a swab up there. Heller gets a text and darkly chuckles)
King: Did they, do it?
Heller: (Grins) Yeah, they did, 19 was so busy with the scene they didn't even notice what Branson did.
King: Yeah, that'll teach those sons of bitches not to come after us because it didn't work out so well for them last time.
(Levi takes the swab out as he gets fearful for Nick due to knowing what PD did to 19 last month)
Levi: (Clear throat) Okay your done just drive through the barn when the cars in front of you pass and we'll email you the results in two or three days.
King: Thanks doc.
(Levi walks away to go to the car behind them quickly texting Nick 'are you okay?' and putting it away anxiously)
LATER AT THE TESTING TENT
(Amber runs back to Jackson by the van after talking to Marcel about his positive covid test)
Jackson: Marcel tested positive. He needs to be home, isolating.
Amber: I told him that, but apparently, he lives with his family. Six people in a two-bedroom apartment, including his grandfather. He doesn't want to get them sick and this will spread to others in the building too. Do you think we can admit him? Get him a private room and-
Jackson: This is not a hotel, Karev.
Amber: I know but he can't afford to stay anywhere else.
Jackson: …Okay. Book him a hotel room.
(Jackson hands Amber his platinum card)
Amber: (Shocked) Really?
Jackson: It's a matter of public health, okay? Anybody needs a room, just book them a hotel. No questions.
Amber: (Looks at the card) Wow so that's what platinum looks like.
(Amber heads back to Marcel)
MEANWHILE BACK AT THE STATION
(Alex and Carina walk through the lobby after their break when Jack approaches them)
Jack: Hey, uh, can I get two test kits, please?
Carina: Okay, is everyone breaking protocol today?
Alex: Yeah lieutenant you don't want to be on her bad side today trust me.
Jack: Carina, I-I get that you don't like me.
Carina: Um, it's Dr. DeLuca. And-And what are you doing in Maya's office, exactly?
Jack: She said that we could use it. Look, Dr. DeLuca, Maya and I aren't-
Carina: Okay, I'm-I'm not threatened by you. I'm not.
Jack: Good. You shouldn't be.
Alex: Yeah, you really shouldn't.
Jack: Can I help you or are you just here to talk me down?
Alex: Well I'm-
Carina: (Sobs)
Alex: (Concerned) Whoa hey Carina are you okay?
Jack: Whoa, whoa. I'm-I'm sorry. I didn't mean to-
Carina: (Voice breaking) No. No. I'm not crying because of you. I'm not crying because of you. It's-It's my visa expiring, and Maya, and i-it's the pandemic. It is bad there and getting worse here, and-and-Oh! (Alex stands back getting more worried along with Jack) It-It's my brother that has to leave his girlfriend after she almost dies, and I don't know what to do, and now I'm crying about it in front of-Aah! In front of the one person I vowed would never see me cry. You're not gonna see me do it.
Alex: Carina take a deep breath.
Carina: (Inhales deeply)
Jack: No, yeah, go ahead. Cry in front of me. I'm-I'm a big fan of crying women.
Alex: (Stern) Gibson!
Jack: I know, I know that sounded weird. Uh, no, look, my girlfriend is crying in Maya's office right now, actually. It's a crappy time for everyone. And our mother figure, I guess, is…in the COVID ICU at Grey-Sloan, and they're taking her off the vent. And her kid is pissed. And I get it, you know, because I'm pissed. But I'm learning, as a parent figure, that you don't get to be pissed when your kid is-
Alex: No that's not a good idea.
Jack: What?
Alex: I'm raising my kids in a pandemic too and believe me when I tell you that keeping it inside is just gonna be worse for them. He needs to learn to deal with his anger and his feelings in a healthy way. Believe me you'll save a lot of money from lawyers and not have to deal with assault charges, true story.
Jack: (Nods) Yeah. Yeah, no, you're right.
Alex: I know. My sister thinks she's the smartest out of the two of us but I let her think that.
Jack: (Smirks)
Carina: (Calm) We should go back.
Alex: Yeah.
(Alex and Carina head back to the barn)
Alex: Are you really being deported?
Carina: (Sighs) Later, okay?
Alex: Okay.
BACK AT THE SCENE
(After extricating Shayne and Karissa from the car they go back to the engine to get their gear together)
Dean: That couple man.
Vic: Yeah, I know, I mean it's their wedding day and she says he's not worth saving as much as her.
Nick: Thank God for annulments.
Maya: Herrera, what is that?
Andy: (Sees a piece of paper attached to the window and pulls it out) It's a parking ticket.
Maya: What?
Dean: "To 19. Love, P.D."
Vic: Seriously?
Gregory: 19, you were exceptional. Great job today. It was fun getting in the mix with you.
Maya: P.D. left us a little love note while we were actually saving lives.
Gregory: Oh, I'll take care of this. They shouldn't be retaliating.
Nick: (Furious) Retaliating? You're saying they have a good reason to be pissed at us?
Vic: (Furious) Are you serious, sir? They assaulted us. They arrested us. Uh, with all due respect, are you here to make them feel safe or are you here to defend your people?
Gregory: I'm on your side, Hughes.
Vic: Oh, well, why are there sides? I thought we were all supposed to be working together.
Gregory: My point exactly. It's been a long day. Get back to the station, get cleaned up, and be proud of yourselves.
Vic: We are, sir.
Gregory: Captain Bishop.
Maya: Sir.
(Gregory gets in his truck)
Nick: Sorry captain I know we have enough on our plate.
Vic: Yeah, me too, I couldn't shut up.
Andy: Don't be sorry.
Dean: (Pleased) I'm glad you didn't shut up.
Maya: Me too.
(Nick and Vic fist bump)
LATER AT THE TESTING TENT
(Amber approaches Jackson)
Amber: Okay I have booked 18 hotel rooms. The manager wanted me to ask if you would rather book an entire floor.
Jackson: Well, we got a lot of positives. Tell him we'll take all the rooms we can get.
Amber: I think I've memorized your credit-card number.
(Andrew and Alma approach Jackson)
Alma: (Mad) When did hotel stays become part of the plan?
Andrew: (Mad) Avery did you think through this?
Jackson: Well, people need more than a test, and quarantining isn't easy for everybody.
Alma: (Scoffs) And you realized that today?
Jackson: (Offended) Excuse me?
Amber: Ortiz remember what we talked about voicing our opinions?
Andrew: No she's right you think you're making things better but your making it worse for others in need. There are real world problems out there and they target people who are not as privileged as you.
Jackson: (Stern) DeLuca-
Amber: (Steps in) Dr. DeLuca, Khan needs you in the general floor. Your lap chole from this morning has a high fever and post op rash he needs a consult right now.
Andrew: (Sighs and walks away)
(Amber follows him outside until their in the middle of the parking lot)
Amber: Stop, we need to talk.
Andrew: I have a patient.
Amber: You don't, I made it up.
(Andrew stops and turns to Amber)
Andrew: What?
Amber: I made up a fake emergency so I can save you from being suspended. We have time to get to why you are acting this way.
Andrew: I'm fine.
Amber: No, you're not and I would not be a good girlfriend if I didn't notice. Andrew, you are snapping at everyone and doing it to interns is one thing but when it's at the one guy who can fire us at the snap of his fingers it raises concerns.
Andrew: Avery is booking hotel rooms at full price against organizations putting low-income people positive with covid in hotels at discounted prices. Now those hotels are kicking people out for his new arrivals because they want to make more money. Do you see why I'm upset?
Amber: I get it and it's partly my fault because I gave the manager the card number and I didn't think it through either I…I'm sorry.
Andrew: (Exhales in frustration) It's not your fault.
(Andrew sighs and paces in the parking lot in conflict. Amber senses something else is wrong)
Amber: Okay what is really going on? Because I'm the one in this duo who is angry and yelling at interns and as hot as I find this authoritarian side I need to ask. Are you okay?
Andrew: I'm not manic if that's what you're asking. I'm not a mentally unstable person right now I am an angry person who wants to lash out at the world.
Amber: Okay but why? Talk to me tell me what's wrong.
Andrew: (Exhales and takes off his mask revealing his worried face) My sister's visa is expiring and she might have to go back to Italy.
Amber: (Shocked and takes off her PAPR helmet) What?
Andrew: I was with my sister this morning at city hall trying to see if anyone can help her but they can't.
Amber: I don't understand I thought your sister was good as long as she renews her visa.
Andrew: And she was but the president just shut down all immigration offices putting her renewal application on pause.
Amber: (Worried about him) Are you gonna-
Andrew: No, I got my green card in med school I have dual citizenship but Carina…she might need to go back to Italy until the offices open again.
Amber: (Can't comprehend this) Why is he shutting them down to begin with?
Andrew: I don't know, I don't know Amber and I don't have enough time to explain the screwed-up immigration laws right now. I have to go.
Amber: Okay, okay wait (Andrew stops) when is she…
Andrew: (Sad) Next month.
(Andrew walks back to the hospital. Amber takes a deep breath before putting her helmet on to go back to the tent)
CUT TO BLACK
SCENE: STATION 19
(In the bunkroom Nick checks his phone and sees the multiple texts and voicemails from Levi. Levi enters the room relieved to see him)
Levi: Oh thank god.
Nick: What is with the messages? I was out on a call I don't carry my phone with me. Why wouldn't I be okay?
Levi: I tested these cops today and they said they got back at you guys for what happened I…I thought they attacked you guys again.
Nick: (Scoffs) Yeah no but they did leave us a parking ticket, it was sent with love if that makes it better. Bastards.
Levi: (Sighs in relief)
Nick: (Notices his relief) Wait a minute, (Grins) You were worried about me, weren't you?
Levi: (Flustered) I-I-I was worried about all of you guys.
Nick: (Smoldering look and walks toward him) Oh yeah? Did you text the others constantly too? Did you walk into a room privately with them and ask them if they were okay?
Levi: (Swallows) Um…you know what I'm gonna go, I just showered and I have to clock out so we can do this later.
Nick: (Smoldering look) Oh no, no watching you freak out here is way more fun.
Levi: (Breaks and grins) Stop looking at me!
(Nick chuckles and grins at Levi's embarrassment)
Levi: I uh I need to get tested and-
Nick: (Lustful) You and I have already been…exposed to each other so were in a pod now.
(Levi and Nick look at each other lustfully)
MEANWHILE IN THE BEANERY
(After taking a shower Alex walks inside the kitchen with Maya, Carina and Vic where they find Travis cooking)
Vic: Why do I smell Nari's spicy beef soup? (Gasps) Oh, my God. Is that Nari's spicy beef soup? Is Nari here?
Travis: She was.
Carina: How did it go?
Vic: How did what go?
Travis: My dad was exposed. Playing golf.
Vic: Oh. (Realizes) Ohhhh.
Travis: Yeah. Uh, I mean, it wasn't terrible, but it wasn't great, either.
Carina: Baby steps. Whoa. Did I get an idiom right?
Maya: Yeah, you did. I am so proud of you, Dr. DeLuca.
Carina: Oh, my God! First idiom right! Okay so…
(Maya and Carina leave to go to the lounge)
Alex: (Chuckles) Hey is Nick here? I wanted to get an answer back for the drinking tonight.
Vic: Oh can I come?
Alex: Nope sorry need to limit exposure, so where is he?
Travis: I think I saw him go to the bunkroom by the lockers he should be there resting.
BACK TO BUNKROOM
(Nick is shirtless on top of a clothed Levi making out with him on the bed while Earned It by The Weeknd is playing from his phone)
Nick: (Moans) So if your positive there's a chance I am too, right?
Levi: We're in a pod so we're good.
(They continue to make out until Alex opens the door)
Alex: I-
(Alex pauses as he sees the scene. Nick and Levi pull apart and look at Alex frozen)
Alex: (Clears throat) Sorry.
(Alex quickly closes the door. Nick sighs at the unfortunate timing as Levi silently freaks out. Alex walks quickly to the beanery where he finds Vic stirring the soup)
Alex: Hey uh I'm gonna head out.
Vic: Okay, is Nick coming?
Alex: No I-I don't think so. Could you tell him I'll talk to him later and put the emphasis on later please.
Vic: …Okay.
(Alex walks out of the beanery. Three minutes later Nick and Levi come by looking disheveled. Vic sees them and connects it)
Vic: No, tell me you didn't.
Nick: We uh we almost did and uh-
Levi: Dr. Karev walked in.
Vic: Oh wow…I guess you guys aren't getting that drink huh?
Levi: Nope and I think I need to steer clear from the Karev's so do you have a bomb shelter I can hide in?
Nick: (Sighs and pats Levi's back) What are you making? It smells good.
(Levi and Nick walk toward Vic who chuckles at them)
Nick: Shut up, it's not like he caught us right in the middle.
Levi: (Freaks out) Except he did, I am so dead.
Vic: Yeah you kind of are.
Nick: (Glares at Vic)
Vic: What? I'm being honest, would you rather I lie and tell him it's gonna be okay?
Levi: I would rather this whole situation not start in the first place. God this is all your fault!
Nick: (Wide eyes) Well you have never complained before.
Levi: Your the one who seduced me with your smoldering eyes and pod talk. (Groans)
Vic: Pod talk?
Nick: Oh my god...damn it yes I seduced you and that is on me. But you know from the way you reacted I could tell I wasn't the only one with a penis screaming for an orgasm.
Vic: (Stirs soup) I'm just gonna ignore this so I can have an appetite for dinner.
Levi: Amber just started talking to me again, do you think hearing that I slept with her brother knowingly this time is gonna make us reconcile completely?
(Ben and Andy walk in with Dean)
Andy: Hey is dinner ready?
Vic: (Tries to ignore it) Focus on the stirring until this stops.
Ben: Did we come in at a bad time?
Vic: Oh yeah.
Nick: Look is Alex still around? I kind of need to talk to him about...things.
Travis: (Comes in) Uh he just left what's up? Did you guys get back together or something?
Vic: Trav don't, just don't.
Levi: Um it's-it's not what you think I-
Nick: (Frustrated) Oh my god screw this. I don't care if Alex and the rest of them think I'm like the Whore of Babylon. Levi and I tried to do it this afternoon but then Alex walked in and saw us together.
Andy: Oh damn.
Dean: (Scratches head) Yeah that would be a bad way to greet your brother.
Levi: Exactly, thank you.
Vic: Hey you weren't exactly a victim here buddy I mean it's not like he tied your tongues together, you could've said no.
Nick: Exactly we are two consenting, queer adults. The only problem with this is you making a big deal out of nothing, what is the problem here?
Levi: The problem is your family might have a problem with this.
Nick: Okay you know what...I walked away because I wanted space from the Karev's, that's not an issue anymore.
Levi: Well it's still an issue for me, and it's an issue for Amber, I don't want to hurt her again. I know that seems ridiculous but I have known her longer and she has been there for me through the worst moments of my life. I...I wish I could be with you but I owe the Karev's too much and...I don't want to cause problems for them, I can't do that to them. I'm sorry, I really am but...I don't think we should see each other anymore.
Nick: (Looks down sad)
Levi: (Guilty) I'm really sorry, I...I hope we can still be friends. I'll see you around bye.
(Levi leaves the beanery with Nick left behind deflated with the team looking at him with sympathy)
Dean: I'm sorry man.
Nick: (Sighs) Yeah me too...seven hours ago I thought I had a brother and a boyfriend and now all I have are friends.
Vic: (Serves him the soup) You get first servings.
(Nick nods gratefully and eats the soup depressed)
LATER THAT NIGHT
SCENE: ATTENDINGS LOUNGE
(Amber enters the room to find Andrew getting ready to leave. She closes the door and stands in front of him)
Amber: (Sighs) I'm sorry for what's happening to Carina. I know from experience how worrying over a sibling being miles away can cause you to lash out at the world and I get it.
Andrew: …No you don't. I'm sorry Amber but this is different, this is worse than what happened with your brother. Your brother was in another state, he didn't get deported to your home country that's dying. He didn't get forced to leave because of a poor decision by a man who's not at the front of the issues. You didn't feel guilty for staying in a country you've made your home while your brother has to leave everything behind. It's…it's not the same.
Amber: (Nods) Your right.
(Andrew sighs and sits on the couch in thought. Amber sits in front of him on the coffee table knowing what he's gonna do)
Amber: You're going back to Italy with your sister.
Andrew: (Looks up) I…I didn't say that.
Amber: You didn't have to. I know you; I know what a good man you are, what a good brother you are. I know you would do anything to help your sister during a difficult time in her life just like my brother would do for me. I know you want to be there for your sister and help out your country that's suffering right now. I know that's what you decided to do and… (Swallows) I admire you for it, I love you for it.
Andrew: (Holds her hands) It's not forever, okay? It's just until the offices are open and we can get Carina's visa renewed. It might take a while it could be weeks or months but this is not the end, okay? It's just the only option we have right now.
Amber: …Maybe not the only option.
Andrew: What do you mean?
Amber: Has your sister considered marrying her American firefighter girlfriend she's living with? It could get her a green card real fast.
Andrew: She hasn't and I'm not gonna ask.
Amber: Why not?
Andrew: Because she would say no, she doesn't believe in marriage. She never has and she won't marry just to stay in this country.
Amber: Why the hell not? I mean they love each other and they want to be together and stay here so do we. If she marries Maya everybody is happy.
Andrew: If I was getting deported instead would you marry me to get me a green card?
Amber: In a heartbeat!
Andrew: Okay but that's you that's not Carina. Carina isn't gonna marry Maya just because she's in a desperate situation. I…I know this is frustrating for you okay believe me I wish she could do that but she doesn't and I'm not gonna make her. If she wants to marry Maya that's up to her and if she doesn't…we just have to do the other option.
Amber: (Sighs) Okay…okay we'll uh we'll make it work somehow. The time difference is spotty and we'll both be busy but we can do long distance. I don't know how but we'll do it.
Andrew: Maybe we don't have to.
Amber: (Looks at Andrew confused)
Andrew: Come to Italy with me.
Amber: (Shocked) What?
Andrew: Carina and I are talking to the people at Paolo Calvino, they're gonna let us work there temporarily. They need all the help they can get and believe me they need help. It's worse than here and here is really bad. I mean hearing about how much they're suffering I feel a need to help out you know? That feeling where you want to drop everything and be there for those in need. It's Carina's residency place but I feel the pull with her and…it would really help if they had a great doctor like you there too.
Amber: …Andrew I'm in the middle of my residency here I could lose my spot.
Andrew: You won't it's just temporary, okay? You already speak the language so it's not like you're a fish out of water and we always talked about visiting my family there.
Amber: That was before the pandemic.
Andrew: I-I know and it's a mess right now but we can get through it. It's gonna be the same as it is here only more. You hardly do surgeries here anyway so do I so what are we leaving behind?
Amber: My family for one thing. I'm just getting to know Nick and then there's the twins and Jo who's pregnant and…I don't want to leave but I don't want you to leave either. God why is it the minute we're happy something comes to take it away.
Andrew: (Holds her hand) I know. I wish there was a way we could be happy here and everybody wins.
Amber: Well-
Andrew: Besides getting my sister married. I get it if you don't want to leave here, it doesn't mean we have to break up we just have to be in separate places for the moment. I'm not gonna make you go with me I just want you to. And if our history is any indication, we can survive whatever comes next.
Amber: (Sniffles) Um can I take a day to think about this? It's a lot and I need to drink tonight so…
Andrew: Yeah of course.
(Amber stands up and walks out of the lounge)
LATER THAT NIGHT
SCENE: ALEX AND JO'S BACKYARD
(Amber is sitting at the table drinking her second glass of vodka. Alex walks in exhaling as he grabs a glass and fills it with Vodka. He sits across from Amber sipping it immediately)
Alex: (Hisses) Oh I needed this.
Amber: Bad day?
Alex: You have no idea, first glass?
Amber: (Downs it) Second, about to be my third. Pour.
(Alex refills Amber's glass)
Amber: So, where's Nick? Did he say no?
Alex: (Sips) Not exactly. I uh I offered him a chance to hang out this morning and…I caught him in bed. With Schmitt.
Amber: (Remains calm as she drinks her vodka)
Alex: (Narrows his eyes) You knew.
Amber: Levi showed me his profile before I found out who he was. And they did the deed before if you want to know.
Alex: I didn't.
Amber: I was just waiting till I figure out how to tell you but… (Laughing) I guess they found their own way.
Alex: It's not funny I'm gonna need to bleach my eyeballs.
Amber: Okay but serious question right now, who was on top?
Alex: (Glares at Amber and sips his vodka)
Amber: Too soon? Okay. So, does this mean the whole reaching out thing is over now?
Alex: (Sighs) I mean they didn't know at first, right?
Amber: No, they didn't.
Alex: So…this shouldn't change anything. Does it change anything for you?
Amber: I'm still on the fence with Schmitt so I don't have an opinion over my best friend sleeping with my brother. (Chuckles as she realizes something) You know if those two get hitched that would make Schmitt our-
Alex: (Stern) Don't…even say it.
Amber: I'm just trying to find some light in this very dark day. You're not the only one who was slapped with shocking information.
Alex: Yeah, Carina told me about her visa and how she might go back home.
Amber: And her brother who wants to go with her. He wants to be there for her and help her with what's going on over there.
Alex: Okay well he's not leaving you not by choice. He's doing what I would do for you if it was us. You can't blame him for trying to help his sister during a difficult time in her life. And where he's from is hell right now so of course he feels a need to help out.
Amber: I know. He's a good guy…but a small part of me wishes he wasn't so he could stay here with me. Does that sound selfish?
Alex: A little but I think it's the alcohol talking.
Amber: (Sips) Yeah, our night of unwinding turned into a night of despair. For the record that bottle is mine I'm being nice giving you a glass.
Alex: I need this tonight.
Amber: Not more than I do.
Alex: I walked in on my new half brother having sex with my resident.
Amber: Yeah well, my boyfriend's sister is getting deported, and he might have to follow her to the covid hot spot. And I have to think about whether I want to go with him or not because I can't imagine how long he'll be gone and we just got back together after I almost died. I win.
Alex: (Sighs and pushes the bottle in her direction) You always win.
(They sit there silently for a moment drinking and brooding)
Alex: It'll be okay Amber.
Amber: Yeah? Can you get on the phone and get the president to open the immigration offices again?
Alex: (Sighs) …Hey let's make a toast.
Amber: To what? Our depressing lives?
Alex: (Holds up glass) A toast to achieving a major goal today and getting people the tests, they need and being one step closer to ending this.
Amber: (Sighs and holds bottle up) A toast to us and all the front-line workers that made it possible. Cheers.
Alex: Cheers.
(They clink their glasses and continue drinking)
I HOPE YOU GUYS ENJOYED THIS CHAPTER AND REVIEWS ARE WELCOME AS WELL AS OPINIONS ON WHETHER BABY LUNA SHOULD BE A PART OF THE GROWING KAREV FAMILY IN MY STORY.