Disclaimer: I do not own the characters within this story. All rights and much respect go to Crown Media, Hallmark, Brian Bird, Michael Landon, Jr., the actors, creators, and writers of the show "When Calls the Heart."
Chapter 6- Is It Over Now
Worried that this conversation would upset Elizabeth, Jack wanted to say, 'Mr. Thatcher maybe we should table this topic forever, because she's not going back to Boston…she's already home.' Instead, Jack offered, "Mr. Thatcher, maybe we should table this conversation until Elizabeth is feeling stronger."
Elizabeth wanted to make certain that her father knew where she stood, "No, daddy. My life is in Chicago now…besides, I was just offered a new job," Elizabeth advised.
"A new job? It's here in Chicago, right?" Jack asked.
"Well, I haven't accepted it, but I want to, and yes, it's here is Chicago, but specifically, it's here in the hospital…"
"Excuse me…?" Jack's eyes went wide. "It's here, right here in this hospital…?"
Not seeing the 'pleased' expression she expected on Jack's face, she responded, "Um, is something wrong?"
"No…uh, of course, not," Jack responded as he looked around the room at her parents before returning his glance to Elizabeth. "I just thought you were happy working with social services… that's all."
"I was…I mean, I am. It's just with all of Marcus' hospitalizations, I thought that maybe there were families who could benefit from my experience in their situation," she replied. "Do you think it's the wrong move?" she asked hesitantly, posing the question to everyone standing in her room.
Jack wasn't certain that given the relationship Elizabeth had with the other two people in her room, her parents, that he even had the right to weigh in on her question. However, that didn't mean he didn't want to. But just what could he say without sounding inconsiderate, overbearing, and presumptuous, the very things that Ethan apparently brought to the table, and exactly against what she was fighting.
Before Jack could think of anything to say that would not sound oppressive, or bossy, Mr. Thatcher began with his own reasons why returning to Boston could afford her the same opportunities.
"Well, I think you could do something like that at Boston General," her father interjected. "You know Bill Higbee is a close friend of mine, and he is Chief of Staff. I'm sure that one call could get you in…"
Elizabeth released an exhausted breath. She knew that no matter how much she talked, explained her wants, or discussed her desires for staying in Chicago, her parents were currently standing in a hospital room, staring at her bruised body and bandaged forehead, something that had never happened in Boston (not to say it couldn't or wouldn't, it just hadn't), and they were scared.
"Daddy, I know you and Dr. Higbee are good friends. His son, Brody and I are close friends, too, but it doesn't change the fact that Chicago is my home now."
"Honey, it's a thought that I think you should consider," her father pushed. "You could do what you are looking to do here, but you'll be with the very people you know and who care the world about you…"
'WOW, was that meant to be a dagger through my heart?' Jack silently asked himself.
"I appreciate the thought, daddy, really, I do, but right now, so much of my life is up in the air. Maybe after court, I'll hopefully be able to get my life back. Besides, I don't want to get a job because my daddy called in a favor," Elizabeth responded, although she was well aware that it would do no good.
"Honey, I know you are qualified, and Bill will know it too. Besides, he's asked me a few times about you, so he knows you got your Master's degree."
"Daddy, please tell me that you haven't already tried to get me a job through Dr. Higbee."
"No, of course you don't have a job at Boston General…yet." Mr. Thatcher swallowed hard, "We just need to send him your resume. It's just a formality though."
"Daddy…" Elizabeth closed her eyes, released a hard breath, and shook her head. "I have a job here, and whether or not I take the position at the hospital, I'm not planning to leave Chicago. I love it here."
Her parents looked around the room at machines and an IV taped to her arm. "Yes, honey and I can tell that Chicago loves you too," her father blurted out, the frustration in his tone was easily discernible.
Feeling the need to put the spotlight on someone other than herself, Elizabeth glanced over at Jack, "How is your arm?" She immediately thought, 'Oh, smart one, Elizabeth. Let's just draw more attention to the bad things that happen in this beautiful city.'
Jack smiled, "It's fine. Don't worry about me."
"Jack, I don't know how Elizabeth's mother and I can thank you for what you did. If you hadn't been there, it could have, well, we may not have our girl now."
"I'm just sorry that I wasn't there sooner," Jack responded.
Seeing Elizabeth's eyes water he turned the attention away from her parents, "so about this job in the hospital, when did you apply? I mean, I wasn't even aware that there was an opening in that department?" Jack asked.
"I actually applied a while ago, before we met, and after I interviewed there was radio silence. I mean, I heard absolutely nothing. I just assumed they'd already hired someone else, and nothing was going to come of it, so I kind of forgot all about it. That is until they called and offered me the position," she responded, easily feeling Jack's hesitancy at her employment change. "Are you sure there's nothing wrong, Jack?"
"Uh, no…why?" he responded, trying to cover his concern for the new information she'd just dumped in his lap.
"Um, I don't know, I just thought you'd be happier, that's all," Elizabeth ran her hand across the sheet covering her body, doing her best to smooth over the material, much like she was hoping to do with the sudden tension she felt from Jack.
"I am…I am," he responded; however, dishonesty was a bitter pill, one he couldn't swallow easily, and although he spoke the words, his heart was pounding, and his thoughts were running rampant.
"Look, there's a lot being made about this new job, and given my circumstances, I don't even know if they will still want me, and truly, I don't know if I want it anymore. I mean, at least with social services, I have a lot of sick leave built up and however long it takes me to get back to work, they can't hold it against me. The hospital, on the other hand, probably wants someone to start soon, and well, we know I can't do that. So, let's just forget about it for now," Elizabeth practically pleaded. "Even if they're willing to wait, changing jobs right now probably isn't the best move for me, right?" her eyes drifted to Jack, hoping he'd provide her with some guidance.
"I wish I could answer that for you, but I can't," actually he could, and he would, except he also knew that she didn't need his lopsided input. "I guess you've got a lot to think about," he replied.
"Yeah, I guess it's a decision I'll have to make on my own."
Moving from feeling hopeful that she'd stay with social services, to having a lot to think about regarding both jobs, Jack felt anxious, and needed some breathing space. "Look, I know your parents would like to spend some time with you alone, so, I'm going to leave and do my rounds. I'll be back to check up on you in a little while."
"Okay, but you will be back, right?" she asked, a hint of concern in her voice.
Jack had to admit that it felt good to be wanted, and it did sound as though Elizabeth wanted him around. "Of course. I need to check in with my office, handle any appointments I have, and see my patients in the hospital, but I'll be back." He reached over and took her hand, giving it a tender squeeze while tossing the name Brody Higbee into the deep recesses of his mind to cautiously inquire later.
Elizabeth watched as he walked out the door, and while he'd said all the right things, she was unable to dispel the feeling that something had changed.
Jack approached the nurse's station, and despite the fact that he initially heard voices, all talking stopped as he passed by. He knew that they were gossiping, or at least he assumed they were, since not a peep was heard from the four nurses behind the desk once he was visible to them. The only thing he didn't know was what, or more likely who, they were talking about.
Jack slipped into the waiting room, and found Lee sitting alone watching the morning news.
"You're still here?" Jack asked.
"I wasn't about to leave you or my girl alone…"
"WHOA, your girl…?" Jack smiled as his eyebrows arched. "So, you two are getting closer, I assume."
"Jack, I know we haven't had much time to talk lately, but yes, we are. I mean, truth is, she can be aggravating, and irritating, but damn if she isn't the most kind, thoughtful, funny, loving, and beautiful woman I've ever met. So yeah, she's my girl, and I'm lucky to have her."
"Well, I'm happy for you. Speaking of Rosie, where is she?" Jack asked.
"She just left to go to the cafeteria to get everyone some coffee," Lee replied. "You look funny, what's wrong; is Elizabeth, okay?" Lee asked.
"Physically, she's doing fine. It's just that she and her father were butting heads…"
"Why…?"
"He wants her to move home…" Jack replied.
"I hate to bring this up, but she couldn't possibly be ready to leave the hospital yet, and from what you've told me, her place will need a thorough cleaning and some repair work before anyone can move back in. So, it doesn't look like she has a home to go to, right?" Lee inquired as he cut the sound down on the TV, having observed the story about Elizabeth's attack being played on a loop every 15 minutes, only to watch it starting over again. "I mean, will she even want to return to live there once the cleanup and repairs are done?"
"No, I don't mean her place here in Chicago; he wants her back home in Boston…"
"Oh, WOW, how do you feel about that?"
"How do you think I feel…? As far as I'm concerned, she is home. Her home is right here, but…"
"But what?"
"Elizabeth informed us that…"
Rosie walked into the room carrying a tray of coffees with packets of sugar and containers of creamer and placed it down hard onto the table. Seeing Jack's strained expression, she blurted out, "Oh no; what's wrong; is Elizabeth, okay?"
"She's fine Rosie, calm down."
"I brought coffee, are her parents still with her?" she asked.
"Yes, and you can take coffee to her parents if you want, but I'd wait for a while before Elizabeth has any. She may have tests scheduled for this morning, and they most likely need to be on an empty stomach," Jack advised.
Rosie grabbed two cups, creamer and packets of sugar and rushed out the door before Jack could change his mind.
"Okay, she's gone, now what were you going to tell me?" Lee reminded him, as if he could forget. "Jack, what's wrong?" he asked as he watched his best friend scan the room before taking a seat. "Talk to me, man…"
"I've always thought by this time in my life, I'd have a wife, and kids, living a life like my parents had…"
"WOW, I haven't heard you talk like this in a long time, Jack…"
"My dad was so in love with my mom, and she thought he hung the sun in the sky just for her." Jack chuckled, "I know that sounds stupid, but she'd always say, 'boys, you pay attention to your daddy. When it's cloudy outside, he'll do whatever he has to in order to hang the sun in the sky just for me.' And he would."
"What did that even mean?" Lee asked.
"It was just that he knew what to do to put a smile on her face; like he could brighten the day, just by being there, much like the sun."
"WOW, I get it… and I know; your parents were like a PSA for the perfect marriage," Lee replied. "Jack, what's wrong; why are you talking like this?"
"I thought I'd have that, too…"
"What, a marriage and family? We can both have that. We aren't old men."
"Sometimes it just feels like you get close, and then you can feel it being pulled away…"
"What's going on; did something happen between you and Elizabeth or with her parents?"
Jack glanced across the room, focused intently on a picture of flowers in a field, hanging on the opposite wall, practically staring right through it, "No, it just has me thinking…for so many years, the women…"
"Go on, Jack, 'for so many years the women,' what…?"
"We've talk about this before… it just seems like the women I've met, even back in school were shallow. Maybe even more so now. They seem consumed by the trending designer clothes, best lipsticks to wear to entice their man, and what the type of car their man drives says about his worth. I just always felt as though they were looking at me like 'what will you be able to do for me in the long run'…not 'I want to help us build a family, based on love, commitment and trust."
Jack swallowed hard before continuing, "After college, women took a backseat…to school anyway; I couldn't see being able to handle the class load and dating, too. I just didn't have the energy for anything more. The more time that passed, I just figured that the woman of my dreams was not meant to meet me, so I put everything I had into my career; first school, then interning, my residency and finally medical boards and my job. My career has been everything I could have hoped for, and to be head of this department has been a dream come true," Jack stated as he roughly ran his hand over his face.
Closing his eyes and taking a breath, Jack continued, "But that also meant that I didn't have time for dating, let alone, a relationship. As a result, women came second, if that, and to be honest, until recently, I hadn't met a woman who made me want to reconsider my priorities. So, it just seemed logical that my career would be my wife, and my accomplishments would become my children. I like women, don't get me wrong…it just didn't seem to be in the cards for me."
Lee laughed, "I know what you mean." Turning serious again, Lee asked, "Jack, why are you talking like this? You're acting as though your life is over…"
Jack pursed his lips and shook his head, "Just forget about it. I'm rambling, and I don't know what I'm talking about."
Looking around the room, Lee was surprised that they were still alone. "Nope, you're making sense, maybe not complete sense, but you can't stop now. So, keep going; get it off your chest…"
"Okay, but you asked for it…" Jack muttered. "I wanted it all, man. I wanted love, a family, and a career, but I just got tired of women not caring about me, but simply wanting what my job title and paycheck could provide them," Jack continued; his voice becoming more depressed sounding with each sentence. "I'm sure not all of them are like that, but it didn't matter, it felt like that was my destiny, so I changed what I was expecting for my life. I gave up a long time ago on the dream of finding the love of my life, having a house in the suburbs with a picket fence, because you know most women like that kind of fence for some reason, a beach house, and a cabin in the mountains where we'd divide our time, slipping away for long weekends…hiding out, just to be alone together."
"You don't have to give that up, Jack." Lee closed his mouth and remained quiet but sadly observed a mistiness in Jack's eyes. He reached over and squeezed Jack's shoulder. Jack looked up and Lee softly spoke, "I'm listening; keep talking…"
"I see men with kids and I'm envious, you know. I guess I always thought by now I'd have found that special woman, and we would have had maybe one or two kids. I'd see myself taking my little ballerina to dance class, or my rough and tumble son to football practice. I imagined my wife and I chasing the monsters out from under their beds at night, packing school lunches and helping them with their homework, before we slipped into our own bed and…well, you know."
"Yeah, man, I know…" Lee understood, but was confused, 'had something happened between him and Elizabeth?' but he remained quiet, allowing Jack to spill everything from the inside, releasing the emotions that he'd obviously been keeping under wraps.
"I know I'm not old, and things could still happen, but for me I just never seemed to meet a woman who was satisfied with me, not Dr. Jack Thornton, but just Jack. You know what I mean?"
"I think I do, but Jack, you're only 34…um, did something happen with Elizabeth?" he asked again.
"You know that day when you called to remind me of your club opening, I remembered it, but I didn't want to go, and I told myself that if you didn't call, you wouldn't miss me if I didn't show up."
"I know, but I also needed my best friend there to support me."
"And I understand that. That's why I was there, for you, to show my support, not because I expected to meet anyone," Jack replied. "I had been working several days straight. I was exhausted, physically, but also mentally…and I was tired of going out and meeting women who wanted things I didn't. I'm happy for you and the club, I really am, but you know going out drinking and looking for someone to take home for the night has never been my thing. But then, I showed up expecting nothing special and I meet this beautiful woman, and what do I do, I start out by lying to her, trying to be something I'm not in hopes that she'd like me…just me. And she did, only it wasn't me, and well, we know how that went."
"Does Elizabeth not want to see you anymore, Jack?" Lee asked, still confused by the conversation.
"Lee, she's it, man. She's the one. She's the one who was happy to get to know me…Jonathan, the auto mechanic. I was enough for her. She wasn't out looking for a doctor or lawyer or senator, and they were all there at the club that night. She was satisfied with me. Only I lied and that wasn't me."
"Jack, you and Elizabeth both lied, each one for your own reasons, and although you were both deceptive, in this day and age, I don't think anyone could blame either one of you for the choices you made that night," Lee responded. "Besides, you may have given Elizabeth a different name and occupation, but I would imagine that everything else you talked with her about that night was the truth."
"It was, but because of the lies, and the mistrust, she disappeared, and I wasted precious time finding her. What if I had been honest, maybe I could have kept Ethan from getting to her again."
"Man, don't even go there. You know you can't live in 'what ifs,'" Lee responded. "Look Jack, you're scaring me. What's going on?"
"Elizabeth is changing jobs…"
"What…? All of this because she's changing jobs. Man, you really had me worried. I do appreciate you feeling comfortable confiding in me, but Jack, she's just changing jobs, she's not marrying some other dude," Lee responded. "I guess I'm not seeing the downside of this. I mean, good for her. She's already a supervisor where she is, right; so, is this like a director position?" Lee asked as he grabbed a cup of coffee. Setting it back down on the table, he looked back at Jack, "Wait, does this job mean she's moving out of the area?"
"No, thankfully she's staying in the area; at least for the time being," Jack replied.
Tearing open multiple packets of sugar Lee poured them into his cup before glancing up at Jack, "So, what's the job; is it dangerous…is that why you look like you've swallowed your tongue?"
Jack pursed his lips together, "She's been offered a position as a social work supervisor at the hospital…"
"Which hospital?" Lee inquired as he, without remembering that he'd already poured ample sweetener into his cup of java, tore into several more sugar packets and added them into his already sweet cup of coffee.
Jack released a hard breath, "This one…"
Lee took a seat… "Well, that sure puts a different spin on things…"
"Right…? It's bad, Lee…"
"Well, my dear friend, I've told you many times before that there would come a time when that policy you have would be outdated. Guess what…?"
"What…?" Jack replied as he stood up only to immediately return to the seat in the chair next to his best friend.
"It's time to reevaluate that outdated policy of yours…" Lee took a sip of his coffee before spitting it back into his cup.
"It's not that easy, Lee. You have no idea how bad the rumor mill is around here," Jack stated as he ran his hand harshly over his face and through his hair.
"Look, how do you feel about Elizabeth?"
"What are you talking about? I have just spent the last twenty minutes spilling my guts about her."
"Actually, no, you've spent more like the last thirty minutes talking about why you can't have what we both know you want. So, are you and Elizabeth, okay?"
"As far as I know, we are…"
"Okay, so, how do you feel about her?"
"You know how I feel about her; I told you the night I met her that she was going to be my wife. It's just…"
"It's just, nothing. You keep seeing each other and as long as you both feel the same way, you continue to move your relationship forward," Lee responded. "Besides…wait, let me ask you this, have you ever dated a woman who worked not necessarily with you, but in the same place?"
"You know I haven't…"
"Yes, I do know that. So, answer me this…do you still hear rumors about your love life?"
"Yeah. I mean, it's obviously not only me, but it's true, people still talk about stuff they have no idea about."
"So, basically what you're saying is that it really doesn't matter if you work together or not. If people are going to gossip about your love life, they'll do it no matter what, right?"
"On face value, I guess that's right…"
"Okay, well the way I see it, if you and Elizabeth want to date each other, then you date each other. Oh wait, there isn't some kind of rule which says you can't, is there?"
"No…"
Lee chuckled, "I already knew that, too. So, I say, you date, and if the rumors start, you hit them head on."
"But Lee, I don't think you understand. These rumors can be vicious, crude, and spiteful, and they spread like wildfire," Jack began to explain. "Do you remember Dr. Carpenter?"
"Who…?" Lee asked as he pulled the lid off of a second cup of coffee, and added a few packets of sugar.
"Don't you remember that older gentleman I introduced you to at the Christmas party last year?" Jack asked Lee, staring at him as he thought about the question that had been broached.
"You mean the older gentleman who's on the Board of Directors of the hospital?" Lee dug further.
"Yeah, that's him," Jack responded. "Well, anyway, I don't know how, why or when it started, but some rumor circulated about him having an affair, and it broke up his marriage."
"Was it true?" Lee asked.
"I don't know. All I do know is that the talk started, it caused problems in his marriage, and they split up."
"So, if it's true then it isn't rumors, right?" Lee prodded.
"No, I suppose not, but that's not the point…it's still gossiping, which is hurtful, and causes collateral damage to others," Jack reminded him. "They had been married for over 30 years…it's just sad."
"Jack, you aren't a player. Anyone who knows you, knows that. And isn't the important thing how you and Elizabeth feel about each other? Don't worry about something that hasn't happened. I believe it was your mother who told us to stop worrying about tomorrow, or we'll miss out on the greatness of today. Just let them say what they want, the truth will always win out."
"I know you're right; everything you've said is so true. But let me ask you this, Lee, how do you think Rosie would react if she heard from several sources, that you were seeing another woman, or someone was pregnant with your baby, or you were stealing from your club? She doesn't have to know who's passing the rumors; she could have heard it while having lunch at a restaurant and two women at the table next to her are talking a bit too loudly. It's just that a seed gets planted, and the more she hears things the more she wonders if it's true."
Jack took a breath, and continued, "Let's say you have to legitimately work later than usual a few nights a week and you have to cancel plans with Rosie. One of those nights you leave your phone sitting on the bar and don't realize that Rosie texted you two hours ago, or you have lipstick smeared on your collar from a drunk female patron of your club who simply loses her balance and falls into you. I mean, your bouncers immediately show her and her friend out and put them safely into a cab, but the damage is already done. How do you think Rosie would respond?"
"I'd hope that she'd come to me and talk it out," Lee replied.
"Yeah, I'd hope so too, but I don't want to take the chance. Would you?"
"Well, now that you mention it, I can see the problems the rumor mill could cause. We've been talking about people passing rumors about you, but what about this, how are you going to feel when you hear a couple of doctors or male nurses talking about Elizabeth and what a fine piece of a…"
"Lee…"
"Or 'so and so' had slept with her and she was the best piece of a…"
"Lee, please stop talking about her ass. You see, that's what I mean…?"
"Jack, I love you like a brother, and you know where my heart lies…"
"And you know where mine does as well, so please, I'm asking you to stop."
"I'm just playing Devil's Advocate. It's not just realizing that understanding is needed on her part. You're going to have to show some restraint as well."
"I know Elizabeth is beautiful, and I know that women aren't the only ones who are going to talk. I guess I just didn't think about the men before, so thank you for the visual that is now playing on a constant loop in my head."
"Well, I am here to help," Lee chuckled.
"It's not funny, Lee. I mean, thanks to you, I can see myself slamming a male intern into the wall of the elevator when he mentions to a colleague how soft her skin is, how gorgeous her deep blue eyes are, or that she brushed up against him in the cafeteria line, and gave him a raging boner…" Jack released a hard breath, stood up and bent over at the waist, placing his hands on his knees for stability. "Oh man, I think I'm gonna be sick…"
Lee laughed. "Man, I've never heard you talk like this. Just breathe, Jack. It probably isn't going to be that bad. Besides, don't you think that men at her current job fantasize about her?"
"Do you think she'd agree to stay at home, and I could just pay her salary…?"
"You are killing me Jack," Lee laughed. "And what pray tell is this salary for?"
"It's to keep me from having a heart attack. I am a cardiologist, after all, and I know it's coming…"
"You just need to breathe. Look, no matter where she works, I'm sure there are rumors. The only difference is that where she is now, you just don't hear them."
"How would you feel if it was your girl they were fantasizing over?" Jack snapped, his voice a bit louder than he'd intended.
Suddenly the shoe was on the other foot, or rather the other person's foot, and Lee realized how quickly things can change. "I'm sorry. You're right; I wouldn't like it. But I also know that they can fantasize all they want; my girl is coming home to me, and so will Elizabeth."
"You're right…I know you're right, but why did you have to bring it up and give me horror stories to think about?"
"Really, I'm sorry…"
"Lee, it's just I've seen the dark side of gossip too many times. I just don't know what to do to keep it from happening."
"Please tell me you aren't going to walk away from Elizabeth just because you work in the same building, are you?"
"Don't be stupid. As hard as I worked to get Elizabeth to give me a chance, I'm certainly not walking away. Besides, she hasn't accepted the job yet. Actually, she was talking more like she might be better staying where she is, at least for right now. So, who knows, she could still change her mind, in which case, working together may not be an issue."
"And if she doesn't? I know you're a man who goes by the rules; but since the no dating someone you work with was a rule you placed upon yourself; you have the right to change it."
"You're right. The truth is, we most likely won't even see each other very often anyway. I mean she'll be in one area of the hospital, and I'm all the way on the other side. Maybe we can just keep our contact with each other outside the workplace."
Lee took a sip of coffee, thankful that it was just like he wanted it, "Well, that may work unless you see her walking around with another doctor, or maybe she's with a single dad who has a child in the hospital. I mean, rumors aside, are you prepared for that? The truth is, people are going to gossip, it's the nature of the beast. You guys just need to talk about it, and keep open communication."
"Open communication…? That coming from the guy who used to keep everything bottled up inside. Where is this coming from?"
"Look, Rosie and I have gotten close. She likes to talk, and she is a big proponent of honesty and communication. So, you know what they say, 'happy girlfriend, happy life.'"
"Well, that's not exactly what they say, but I guess in this case, it works…" Jack responded. "Why did I even talk to you…? Now I'm thinking about so much more than just what she might hear."
"Jack, remember, I'm Devil's Advocate, and we've come to the realization that people will talk whether she's at the hospital or not. Don't you feel better knowing that? I mean, you need to put all that aside, and just be yourself with this woman you love…"
"What…love?"
"Yeah, Jack. Join the club."
"I'm a goner, aren't I…?"
"Jack, my man, you were a goner the moment you laid eyes on Elizabeth."
"I know you're right," Jack admitted. "Well, I think right now the job will need to take a backseat. We still have to deal with getting her well, and the court hearing behind her. Oh, and hopefully her father won't talk her into moving back east."
"It's going to work out, Jack. I know it is. This is our time to enjoy life…"
"I'm gonna hold you to that. Thanks for listening," Jack stated. "I'm going to make my rounds so I can get back and sit with her for a while," Jack stated.
Lee stepped forward and playfully slapped Jack on his shoulder. "Hey, it'll all be okay," Lee called out as Jack left the waiting room.
Turning back around, Jack stuck his head back into the room, "I hope so…"
Elizabeth's room…
Two hours later, Jack stepped back into Elizabeth's room. Finding her asleep, and her parents still sitting by her bed, Jack suggested, "I'll sit with her; why don't you two go down and get some breakfast?"
Mrs. Thatcher held tight to Elizabeth's hand, unwilling to release her.
"Honey," Mr. Thatcher stood and slipped his arm around his wife's shoulders, "You need something to eat. Jack will be with her, and," turning to glance in Jack's direction for approval, he added, "I'm sure he will call us if there is any problem."
Checking her vitals, Jack responded, "She's stable, and I'm sure she wouldn't want either of her parents getting sick. So, please, take some time and get something to eat."
"Okay, but you promise to let us know if…"
"Mrs. Thatcher, she's just sleeping. Her body has been through a violent trauma, and it needs rest…" Jack stated.
"It's just that she's out like she was before…"
Jack assured her, "But this time, she is just sleeping."
Mr. Thatcher held his wife's hand and led her from the room, as Jack took the seat once occupied by Elizabeth's mother.
"Hi," Elizabeth softly spoke.
"Oh, you're awake now…"
"I have been for a while. I was pretending to be asleep, because my dad was pushing me to go back home with them. I got tired of arguing," Elizabeth responded as she glanced toward the door, apprehensive that her parents would scoot back into the room and catch her awake.
"Why won't he just accept that this is where you want to live?" Jack asked, but as the words escaped his mouth and he looked at her lying in a hospital bed, the reason was abundantly clear. "Sorry, you don't have to answer that. I can imagine as a father; he doesn't feel that you're safe here."
"Well, I probably wouldn't have been beaten up by a suitor back home, but people there aren't immune to violence. I could be robbed in the street or attacked while jogging through the park in Boston just as easily as here. I think they just miss me, and are using this to talk me into returning home."
Jack didn't like the visual she'd presented to him, and as she talked, he felt his chest tighten, "Are you going to stay?"
"Jack, I dearly love my parents, and Boston is a beautiful city, but my home is in Chicago. I have friends here, and well, the truth is, there's another reason I want to stay," she smiled, which led Jack to believe she was referring to him.
"I hope that reason is me…"
"Possibly, but I will tell you this, I have no plans to return to Boston. Well, maybe for a visit, but certainly not to stay," she stated, news that placed a broad, dimply smile on his face. "I'm not, however, returning to my apartment here…"
"Where are you going to stay; I mean, I have several guest rooms at my place…" Jack stated, but quickly realized how ludicrous it sounded that she would even entertain the possibility after only dating less than a handful of times.
"Although I do appreciate the offer, I know my parents would literally combust if I moved in with you, well, any man actually, so it's nothing against you," she explained. "I think I'm moving in with Rosie until I figure something out."
"Okay, that's good…"
"I need to ask you something…" Elizabeth hesitantly spoke, grabbing her cup of water and taking a sip to wet her overly dry mouth.
"What…?"
"Well, I know we've really only been seeing each other a few times, and um, you don't really owe me anything, so if things are different now and you don't want to see me anymore, I understand…"
Jack felt beads of perspiration lining the back of his neck, "What…?"
"Look, Jack, I owe you my life, and I will always be appreciative of what you did, but you really don't owe me anything," she stated. Taking a breath, she continued, "You're a doctor and I know that in good conscience you couldn't leave me here alone. I'm thankful for that, and I know my parents are as well. But, I mean, you didn't have to sit with me all night…and now that I think about it, I was unconscious, so maybe you didn't, in which case, I'm really embarrassing myself right now by assuming that you did. Look, it's not like I'm following you around or anything, and I don't want you thinking I'm clingy, but it's a big hospital and gosh, there are a lot of people here, after all…"
'She's dealing with the aftereffects of the concussion,' Jack thought as if that could be the only explanation for her ramblings.
Seeing his confusion, Elizabeth continued, "But look, I guess what I'm saying is that we've only been out a few times, and my life's a mess, so…no harm, no foul, right…?"
"I'm sorry, Elizabeth but you've completely lost me…"
"Okay, well, I know I have a concussion, and I'm probably not thinking straight, but I noticed a difference in you when I said that I was planning to take a new job in this hospital. So, if you don't want to see me socially anymore, I guess it's best that we break it off now…I mean, not that there's anything to break off, but…you know what I mean."
"Actually, I don't have any idea what you're talking about, but as for earlier, you're imagining it. I was just surprised, that's all. I thought you liked working for social services," Jack responded, knowing as the words passed through his lips that he wasn't being completely honest, and should have explained his concerns. However, he also assumed that they would have time to broach that subject before it became an issue.
"I do. I love the job and the people I work with…some more than others if I'm being completely honest. I think I could help the families that come through the hospital. I know what it feels like to have someone you care about be so sick, and…"
"And what?" he asked.
Still sensing that he wasn't as thrilled with the prospect of them working together in the same hospital, Elizabeth took a breath, and stated, "Uh, I'm really tired. Maybe we can talk about this another time. I'm sure you have other things to do besides just sitting with me…"
"Nothing more important as far as I'm concerned…" he replied, knowing that the hospital job, and his gossip concerns could be addressed later after she'd gotten some rest.
Elizabeth closed her eyes, thinking it best not to dwell on the prospect of working in such close proximity with Jack. Besides, she wasn't certain if they'd hold the position until she was medically cleared to work, so the opportunity, at least this one, was probably lost for now.
Wednesday…
Two more days passed. It was now Wednesday, and Ethan's trial, scheduled for Friday, was fast approaching. Elizabeth remained hospitalized. However, she pushed to be released in order to attend the court hearing, becoming quite upset any time someone tried to tell her that she wasn't ready to take on Ethan and the stress of a trial.
"I refuse to let him think that he's beaten me. He wants me to give up, and I won't do it. So, either you can stand with me, or step back, because either way, I'm going to face him in court on Friday," Elizabeth's tone was firm as she practically chastised her parents, Jack, Rosie, Lee, and a nurse who simply happened to step into her room to check her vitals.
Although Jack felt her attendance at the court hearing was too much stress and activity for her so soon after the attack, his feelings came more so from a boyfriend's protective perspective rather than from a medical point of view. However, he was also aware that fighting with everyone who was against her going was adding to the stress she was bound to be feeling. Although Ethan's multiple continuances were difficult to swallow, Jack was aware that Elizabeth needed this to be over in order to move on. Sadly, this wouldn't be the only court hearing, as Ethan still faced charges for the second, most recent and much more egregious attack against her.
Mr. Thatcher was quite disappointed that Elizabeth continued to refuse to return home to Boston, and if truth be told, he was actually fit to be tied. After some discussion, it was finally decided that Elizabeth would move in with Rosie…at least for the time being. Although Mr. Thatcher outwardly agreed to this move, no one actually believed that he would back away from this fight.
With Elizabeth being discharged from the hospital on Friday morning in enough time to make it to the court hearing, her father still had a few days in order to wear her down. Unfortunately for him, in the years that Elizabeth had been away from the family and living on her own, she'd realized that her life was hers to live, and she had no intention of backing down.
Wednesday Afternoon…
With Mr. and Mrs. Thatcher gone to check into a hotel for the remainder of their stay, Rosie and Lee returning to their respective places of employment, and Jack handling afternoon appointments in his office, Elizabeth found herself alone for the first time in four days.
Although she was still experiencing pain practically anytime, she moved…or breathed, she realized that she was also suffering from cabin fever. She wanted out and she wanted this nightmare to be over.
Elizabeth grabbed her phone and called her office.
"Cook County Department of Social Services, how may I direct your call?" the receptionist asked as she answered the call.
"Would you transfer me to Mrs. Bennett's office in foster care, please," Elizabeth replied.
"Margie Bennett, how may I help you…"
"Hey Margie; it's Elizabeth…"
"Oh my gosh, Elizabeth, how are you doing? What happened? Are you still in the hospital…?" Margie rattled off multiple questions.
"Look, I don't know how much you know, but Ethan, the guy who attacked me before, came back on Saturday night, and tried to kill me."
"Oh no, how are you…?"
"I'm okay, thankfully alive…I'm beaten and bruised; my ribs hurt, and I have stitches in my head, so, technically, I've seen better days," Elizabeth explained. "I'm sorry that I haven't called before now."
"Don't worry about it. I have that you'll be out for at least the next ten days," Margie advised.
"Ten days…?" Elizabeth sounded surprised. "How…who…?"
"Dr. Thornton called Monday afternoon and explained that you would be out, but he didn't say why, I guessed it was because of HIPPA regulations and all. I just assumed after I spoke with your friend, Rosie on Monday morning that you'd call me when you were able."
"Oh, so is it okay for me to be out?"
"Elizabeth, you take whatever time you need. We want you back, but we won't rush you…"
"Thank you and I'll keep in touch."
After the call ended, Elizabeth sat back thinking about the wonderful people she currently worked with and for, and wondered if changing jobs was in her best interest at this point in her life. At least she had some time to think about it, but then again, maybe not. She did have one other phone call to make.
"Too much to be thinking about…a new job, or stay with the old one, new boyfriend, or remain single, trashed apartment, no place to live, or inconveniencing your best friend, missing visits with Marcus, and my pain, who could forget that. It is getting better, thankfully, but…it's still there. All of it, everything is giving me a headache," she softly muttered as if she was counting off a to do list.
Elizabeth pulled up her saved phone messages, listening over and over to the one where she was offered the position of social work supervisor at the hospital. Thinking about the possibilities, Elizabeth had never worked in the same building as someone she dated, and couldn't help but to think of the positives while dismissing any negatives. "We aren't doing the same work; he's not my supervisor, so dating shouldn't be off-limits. We could maybe grab lunch together occasionally and possibly see each other more often…hmm, not a bad thing, at least not in my book," she smiled at the risk of causing pain for using muscles in her face that had been beaten and bruised only days ago. Then she thought, "Possibly best of all, the women will know that he's off the market… and that's definitely not a bad thing."
Elizabeth punched numbers into her phone, "Northwestern Memorial Hospital Social Services; may I help you?"
"Oh, uh, yes…may I speak to Gwen Applegate please?" Elizabeth asked, suddenly feeling quite nervous.
"May I ask who's calling?"
"Elizabeth Thatcher…"
A few moments later, the call was transferred, "Hi, Elizabeth. This is Gwen. I think it was fate that you called."
"Excuse me…"
"I just mean that I have your paperwork here in front of me and I needed to tell you something about the position, which may impact whether or not you want to take it. Since I hadn't heard anything from you, I wanted to make certain you had all of the necessary information before making your decision."
"Ms. Applegate…"
"Please, call me Gwen. Anyway, although we're still offering you the position, the employee who is leaving won't be doing so for about a month, which means you wouldn't be able to start until after she leaves," Gwen advised. "I hope that's not a problem, because with your resume, the hospital board feels like you would be a great asset here."
"Well, thank-you, Gwen. First of all, I wanted to let you know that I did get your initial message, and it gave me some things to think about," she responded. "I guess I have some of my own information that I need to give to you about my situation, and that may impact whether or not you still want me," Elizabeth's voice was shaky, her tone, hesitant.
"Is something wrong, Elizabeth. I mean, I'm glad to answer any questions you may have about the position."
"Gwen, to be totally honest and forthcoming, I'm actually a patient in the hospital right now."
"Oh no, I'm so sorry."
Elizabeth closed her eyes and took a deep breath before basically spilling her guts to a woman she'd never met before. She told her about the first attack, the horrors of waiting to have the court hearing, and then his final attempt to silence her.
After Elizabeth finished, the only sound was the loud pounding of her heart, reverberating in her ears…thump-thump, thump-thump, thump-thump, and although she assumed Gwen could not hear the hammering in her chest, to her it was deafening. She couldn't even hear Gwen breathing, "I'm sorry to just throw all of that at you at one time. I know it's a lot to take in all at once."
Elizabeth waited for a response, and when there wasn't one, she continued, "Gwen, are you still there?" but there was only sniffling on the other end. "Gwen, are you okay?"
"I'm so sorry, Elizabeth, and I apologize for my reaction," Gwen finally responded. "To be honest, I had a similar experience in college, and I'm embarrassed to say I was too scared to do anything, so he got away with it. I admire you; you're holding him accountable, something I've always wished I had done."
"Gwen, I'm nothing special, and I'm certainly more emotionally equipped to do this now than I would have been in college."
"Don't do that…"
"Do what…?"
"Elizabeth, you are special. You're getting someone off the street who may have the chance to do this to another woman. That's always been my biggest regret," Gwen stated, her voice was soft, yet edgy. "I don't know where he is now. I mean, I guess I felt as long as he wasn't near me, I was safe, but I have worried that by me letting him get away with my attack, it was a green light for him to do the same thing to someone else."
"Well, we have the court hearing on Friday for the first attack, that is if he doesn't get it continued again," Elizabeth stated as she grabbed a Kleenex from the box on her table and gently dabbed at her eyes.
"Would it be okay if I came and visited with you?" Gwen asked.
"I look pretty bad right now, Gwen, and I don't want to stir up any bad memories for you."
"I admire you, Elizabeth, and I would like to talk, if that's okay."
"Sure, I'd love the company," Elizabeth replied. It wasn't that she really needed company; after all, her room was rarely empty, and throughout the day it felt much like a revolving door. First Jack, then Rosie, then Jack again, then her parents would sit with her before Jack returned with lunch. He'd leave long enough to handle afternoon appointments, giving her parents some alone time with their middle daughter before he returned for the evening. Rosie and Lee would slip in for a short visit on their way to the club in the evening, and Jack would stay until well after the end of 'visiting hours,' if not completely overnight. Any alone time she may have had was broken up by multiple, yet sporadic nurse visits. However, even with all of her visits, in her mind, only Gwen would truly understand what she was going through.
Elizabeth and Gwen had only just met via telephone, yet Elizabeth felt a closeness with her, something even she and Rosie didn't share. Somehow, just in their talking, they had already formed a kinship, even if it meant they were both members of the battered girlfriend's club. They both survived; they were both alive, and right here, right now, that's what mattered most.
"What room are you in?" Gwen asked.
"Oh gosh, I don't even know," Elizabeth stated.
"That's okay, I can find you," Gwen replied as Elizabeth's room door opened and her nurse stepped inside.
"Just a second, Gwen," Elizabeth stated into the receiver before turning her attention to her nurse.
"Good morning," Elizabeth spoke as the nurse checked the machine for her vitals.
"Good morning, and how are you today?" her nurse asked.
"Not too bad. Could you tell me what room I'm in, please?"
"Oh, it's written up on your board," she pointed to Elizabeth's wall, "along with your plan of action while here, estimated discharge date, your shift nurse's name, last meds taken, oh, and of course the smiley face…"
"I'm sorry, I never paid attention to that except for the big smiley face that someone would draw there every day."
"That would be me…"
"Well, thank you." Elizabeth returned her attention to the phone, "Gwen, I'm in room 211…"
"I'm free now, are you up for a visitor?"
"Sure…"
"Okay, I'll be right there."
"And I'll be right here," Elizabeth replied. "Sorry, that was a stupid joke."
"I think we are going to get along famously…" Gwen stated as they said their goodbyes and she headed for the second floor.
Elizabeth had barely placed her phone on the table when Jack walked into her room. "Hey, how are you feeling this morning?" he asked as he stepped closer to her bed, and took her hand in his.
She glanced down as he held her hand, two fingers from his other hand resting along her wrist and he stared up at the clock on the wall. "Jack, are you taking my pulse?"
"Sorry, it's a habit…" he responded, as he watched Elizabeth's nurse slip out the door with her cart on her way to her next patient room.
"I doubt you do that to everyone you see."
He smiled broadly, causing the deep dimples that Elizabeth had found to be quite swoon-worthy. "Not everyone, but definitely for a very special someone…and before you say anything, that special someone, is you."
"Did you go home last night?" she asked. "I tried to wake you a few times because you couldn't have been comfortable in that chair. Did you go to your office and at least get a few hours of sleep?"
"I'm fine…" he assured her. "Remember, I'm a doctor and I've perfected the ability to sleep anywhere, and in just about any position."
"Jack, that may be, but you take care of everyone; who takes care of you…?"
"Are you offering…?" His smile was now quite mischievous.
In Elizabeth's mind, she said, 'Hell yes,' however, no words escaped her lips. She was completely focused on this man before her…this man who had fought against the devil to protect her, to save her.
She glanced into his eyes, hers quickly dropping to his full and inviting lips, before returning to his eyes again. It had seemed almost forever since they'd kissed and at this moment, she wasn't thinking about her near-death experience, her upcoming court date, a place to live, pain medication, or Jack's apparent concern over her employment status. It certainly wasn't the most romantic of places, but she wanted nothing more than to feel his lips on hers.
Jack took her hand, his warm, strong fingers intertwined with hers. "I hope you know how special you are to me," he whispered as his right hand rested along her jaw.
Elizabeth's heart began beating faster with anticipation as he leaned closer, and she could feel his warm, minty breath on her face. His scent, a combination of woodsy and citrus was beyond intoxicating and all she could think of was that she wanted to breathe it in forever.
Jack slipped closer; his lips barely brushing across hers, and for a moment it was as if the world stood still, much like they were somehow suspended in time. His lips were soft, and the kiss was tender, like a gentle whisper of a promise for the wonderful things to come.
Leaning back slightly, Jack asked again, but this time in a breathless whisper "So, are you offering to take care of me…?"
"After I get out of here, I just…" Elizabeth began, stopping when Gwen walked through her door.
"Hi, Elizabeth…?" she asked.
"Gwen…?"
"Yes, I'm sorry, I didn't mean to interrupt you. I don't mind coming back later."
Jack recognized Gwen, although they'd never been formally introduced. 'Is she here to officially offer Elizabeth the job…?' he thought to himself.
"No, please come in. I assume you and Jack know each other," Elizabeth mentioned as she glanced between Jack and Gwen.
Gwen stepped forward and stuck out her hand, "I know who you are, Dr. Thornton, but we've never formally met. I'm Gwen Applegate from the Patient Care/Social Services Department. How are you today?"
"Hi Ms. Applegate. I know who you are, too. Please, call me Jack…"
"Thank you, and please call me Gwen…"
"Well, Gwen, I believe we've spoken on the phone regarding my teenage patient, Marcus, but it's nice to put a face to the voice. It's a pleasure to meet you."
"Yes, and thankfully everything is falling into place with his foster family," Gwen advised.
Turning his attention back to Elizabeth, Jack asked, "So, do you two know each other?"
"Well, I called her office this morning to talk about the job and found that we apparently have a lot in common. So, it's just some girl talk, but you're welcome to stay if you'd like," Elizabeth offered, but knew he wouldn't accept.
"As much as I'd like to spend more time with you, I have an appointment in my office in fifteen minutes. So, I'll check in with you later…" He wanted to kiss her goodbye, but was hesitant to do so. Somehow, he knew that he was going to have to deal with his 'close proximity work/dating' hangup, or it was definitely going to cause problems between them.
"Come in, Gwen…take a seat. It's so nice to meet you," Elizabeth stated as she attempted to readjust herself in bed.
"I can't tell you how happy I am to meet you. I just wish this were under better circumstances," Gwen replied. "How are you feeling?"
"Much better than a few days ago, that's for sure," Elizabeth replied. "Ethan did his best to take me out, but thankfully, the self-defense course I took, and of course, Jack coming to my rescue kept that from happening."
"Ethan…?" Gwen jumped up from her seat and started walking around Elizabeth's small hospital room.
"Yes, Ethan Stewart. He's a lawyer in one of those swanky firms downtown…"
"Ethan Stewart…?" Gwen was obviously nervous.
"Are you okay?" Elizabeth asked as she observed tears fill Gwen's eyes.
"I don't know what to say…I'm so sorry."
"I'm okay, Gwen. I'm alive. Besides, it's not your fault."
Gwen's face became flushed, and she looked as though she'd seen a combination of Freddy Kreuger, Jason, and Chuckie all at once.
"What's wrong, Gwen; do I need to call a nurse?" Elizabeth was startled as she reached for the buzzer attached to her bed.
"No…no," Gwen responded as she swallowed hard.
"What's wrong?"
Gwen's tears seemed to freeze, as fear took over. Hesitantly she asked, "Any chance there are two Ethan Stewart's?"
"Oh…m…my…L…Lord…" Elizabeth stumbled over her words. "Is Ethan the one who attacked you in college?"
"I am so sorry. If I had done something back then, maybe he wouldn't have been around to hurt you, or anyone else…"
Elizabeth felt compassion, not anger for this woman, who was no more than a year or so older than her. "Please, Gwen, sit down, and just breathe…"
Suddenly the tears started, and once Gwen's began, Elizabeth's soon followed.
Elizabeth reached over and took Gwen's hand, "Hey, we're alive. I consider that a win…"
"How can you be so nice to me?" Gwen asked, her voice filled with emotion.
"You were young, and you were scared. I can understand. I know how he can put the fear in you, and it's not your fault. What has happened to me is on Ethan, not you." Elizabeth wiped her eyes, and handed a few tissues to Gwen. "I don't blame you, and I certainly don't want you to blame yourself. I've got court on Friday for the first attack, and hopefully we can put him away for a really long time."
"Would you mind if I came to court to support you?" Gwen asked.
"You'd do that?" Elizabeth asked.
"I'd like to, if it's okay."
Elizabeth took a deep breath and smiled, "I'd appreciate that."
The women sat in silence for several long moments. Each one doing their best to gain control of their breathing, as their own assaults, committed by Ethan, played through their minds.
"I don't know what to say, or how to go on after knowing this…" Gwen spoke softly.
"We live, Gwen. We show Ethan that he hasn't beaten us," Elizabeth replied. "But I guess I need to ask, if the job offer is still on the table now that you know all of this…?"
"Absolutely. Even more so than before."
"Gwen, you don't owe me anything, so please don't feel like you are obligated to still offer me the job. I mean given the fact that I'm in the hospital and I'm not sure when I can start."
"Elizabeth, you are exactly the compassionate woman we need in that position. I hope you're considering it."
"I do want to accept the position, but given my current circumstances, I don't know when I'll be released from doctor's care. So, I don't want to hold you up. If you need to hire someone sooner than I'll be ready, I completely understand."
"Look Elizabeth, I don't want you to worry about this position. Like I told you on the phone, Michelle, the one who's leaving, will actually be here for another month, and I'm more concerned about having the right person take over than I am filling it quickly. So, we aren't in a major rush. I just want to know that you are interested."
"Well, I love my work with social services…"
"I think we can sweeten the pot," Gwen stated.
"What do you mean?"
"Well, I'm aware of what the city pay scale is, and we can offer you a 30 percent pay raise."
"Gwen, that is enticing, but money isn't the most important thing to me. I want to be somewhere where I can help out the most."
"Well, I'm sure that you've done a great job at social services, and have made an impact in the lives of those you've worked with. I'm just saying that here, in the hospital setting, the families face struggles, just like you're used to dealing with, but add financial, and in many cases, the life-threatening health issues…"
Elizabeth raised her eyebrows, and Gwen held up her hand, "Okay, don't say it. I know both jobs deal with many of the same things, but we really need you here. You are perfect for this job. Besides, unless I misread something, you and Dr. Thornton are dating, right?"
"It's very early, so I'm not sure what you'd call it."
"Well, I saw the way he looked at you, and I'm fairly certain he would say you two are a couple. I think that's wonderful," Gwen remarked. "He's a wonderful doctor and great guy from everything I've heard."
Elizabeth smiled but didn't respond.
"Well, wouldn't it be nice to be here where you both could see each other more frequently?"
To Elizabeth that sounded perfect, however, she still couldn't shake the feeling she had that Jack seemed hesitant about them working in such close proximity. The fact was that many of the social services families remained in the system for quite some time, whereas the hospital families could be helped and moved through the process more quickly, allowing for more assistance to more families.
"I do want the job, Gwen, and since I wouldn't have to start for at least a month, I may be able to make that work. I just hate leaving where I am now."
"You know, since you will need to be on medical leave, at least initially, maybe you should put in your notice and then take leave to recuperate," Gwen suggested. "Wait, that sounds coldhearted, and I don't mean for it to."
"Well, I have spoken to my supervisor, and she's aware of my situation…not about this job, but she knows what happened to me," Elizabeth admitted. "As a supervisor with social services, I don't actually carry a caseload, so I guess that's good if I'm planning to leave. Anyway, this is my problem to deal with it, and I will. But you are saying that you'll give me a month before I have to start?"
"Absolutely… and if you still aren't ready, we'll push the start date off if necessary."
"Well, that way I can finish healing so I don't scare anyone when I go back into the office, and I can clean up any issues that need to be handled while they advertise for a replacement."
"There will be a week of training, some of which is for the job, while other days will deal with hospital regulations. So, usually new hires do the training first, but I'll have to check and see if a new training session will be starting when you do," Gwen advised.
"Thank you for understanding…" Elizabeth stated as she reached out her arm and shook Gwen's hand.
"I look forward to having you onboard, Elizabeth…"
"Thank you," she replied.
"And Elizabeth…you'll never know how sorry I am for not doing anything to Ethan all those years ago."
"We're both gonna be fine. He's not going to beat us…either one of us. The most important this is that you came out okay on the other side."
"It took a lot of counseling," she admitted.
"Me too. But now we have our lives to live, and I have a feeling that there is going to be a lot of joy ahead for each of us…" Elizabeth responded.
Wednesday Night…
"Is the hotel nice?" Elizabeth asked as she talked to her father on the phone. She was still processing the admission made by Gwen, but chose to keep this information private for now, as it was not her story to tell.
"It's very comfortable, but I actually liked staying in Jack's office," he responded. "I don't like being away from you while you're still hospitalized."
"Daddy, I'm fine…or at least I will be after Friday," she replied as Jack walked into her room with a chocolate milkshake that he placed on the table before her.
"Well, I appreciate Jack giving up his bedroom for us. That was kind of him."
"I'm sure he was glad to do it, dad. Speaking of Jack, he just walked in, so I'll let you go; get some rest, okay?"
"We'll see you tomorrow," her father responded before adding, "I'm going by your apartment tomorrow morning to check things out."
Thinking back to her home, and the destruction and blood that she assumed was still present, she pleaded, "Please don't, daddy. It's just going to upset you."
"Honey, I need to go by and make arrangements for a company to come in and clean up the mess. Once that's done, we can sell it, and you can buy something back here in Boston…"
'I knew he wasn't going to give up,' she thought. Taking a deep breath, she finally responded, "I love you, daddy, but please understand, I'm staying here in Chicago." Trying to change the direction of the conversation, she asked, "Is mom asleep yet?"
"Yes, she was completely exhausted," he replied. "She's worried about you, Elizabeth. Well, we both are. We just want you closer to home."
"Daddy, I understand, but I can't let what happened scare me from living my life. I love it here, and" she glanced over at Jack who sat patiently waiting for her to finish her call, "I have friends here; my work is here. Please understand…"
"I do understand. It doesn't mean that I have to like it…" her father responded. "I can't help being worried about you living in this big city alone, not to mention the trial coming up."
"Well, I know this has been stressful on you and mom, but remember, I'm not alone. I'm just hoping it will all be over in a few days, and you can get mom back home."
"Elizabeth, are you pushing us to leave?"
"Of course not, daddy. But I know you can't stay away from your office forever."
"Elizabeth, family will always be more important than work," he stated, his voice was soft and low. "I know it may not have seemed like it when you girls were kids, but…"
"Daddy, I know you love us, and I know that family is very important to you," she replied.
"Well, depending on how things go on Friday, we will be leaving to come home after court. I know that you have Rosie and Jack to look out for you, but please consider coming home with us, even if it's only for a while to recuperate."
"Daddy, please stop…" Elizabeth snapped, her tone was harsher than she's intended. "I'm sorry, daddy; I don't mean to be disrespectful. It's just that I've made my decision, and if I change my mind, I'll let you know."
"I love you, honey… I don't mean to push, but you can't blame me for hoping that you change your mind," he responded.
"I love you, too. And daddy…"
"Yes, honey…"
"I'm not changing my mind. Please understand why, I have to do this," she stated, talking softly, doing her best to keep from waking Jack who practically fell asleep immediately upon taking a seat in an uncomfortable fold out chair that he'd pulled up beside her bed.
Knowing that Elizabeth's mind was made up, her father responded, "I'll try not to push, but no guarantees. I don't like it, any of it, and I worry that taking care of court is too soon, but I can understand you wanting to get this behind you."
"I'll see you tomorrow. Sleep well, daddy…"
"You too, baby girl…" her father responded before the call was ended.
Elizabeth placed her phone on the rolling table by her bed. Glancing halfway down her body, she observed Jack; his breath, slow and steady as his head leaned forward, and his chin rested heavily on his chest. "Jack," she softly called out, "you can't be comfortable sitting there."
"Hmm…?" he responded; the moan he released sounded more like a question.
"Jack, please go home and get some rest. You're going to make yourself sick from exhaustion."
Jack's eyes remained closed as he lifted his head upward, the sound of his neck cracking caused him to wince, "Ouch…"
"Jack, you don't need to stay here tonight. Please go home…"
His eyes opened, "I may not need to, but I want to," he reached out and took hold of her hand, squeezing it tenderly.
Elizabeth readjusted herself in bed, and did her best to cover the pain she felt.
"When did you have your last pain meds?" he asked as he glanced at his watch.
"Jack, I'm fine…"
"Elizabeth, are you turning down your pain meds?"
"Well…"
"Elizabeth, your body needs to heal and the pain meds, taken properly, will help," he responded, switching from boyfriend into doctor mode.
"I'm afraid that I'll get addicted. I don't want to rely on the medication to get me through the day."
"Honey, taken as prescribed, you'll be fine," he assured her. "I'm going out to check on your meds…I'll be right back."
Within minutes, Jack returned with a cup of water, and Elizabeth's nighttime pain meds. Her chart showed that she'd turned them down at lunchtime and early evening.
"Okay, I need you to take this. Your body needs rest, and you won't get it if you're in pain…" Jack stated as he handed her the small, white Oxycodone pill.
He sat back down in the chair beside her bed and held her hand while he watched her eyes close, and sleep quickly consumed her.
Thursday Morning – (1:35am) …
"Please go home and get some sleep," Elizabeth whispered as she woke and found Jack practically falling out of the chair. "Or at least go to your office where you have a proper bed."
"I'm fine, don't worry about me…" Jack stated as he stretched and twisted his back to release the kinks in his muscles.
"Okay, if you aren't going to go to your office, climb up here next to me so you can at least get some proper sleep," she stated as she pulled the blanket back and patted the mattress. "Sorry, I'm sure this isn't nearly as comfortable as your bed at home or even the one in your office."
Exhausted, and without thinking, Jack removed his shoes and placed his white lab coat over the back of his folding chair. Before he knew what he was doing, he slipped into the hospital bed with Elizabeth.
"This is perfect…" Jack replied, and although he wasn't convinced that he'd get any sleep, being this close to her and knowing she was no longer unconscious felt much like heaven on earth.
Elizabeth reached behind her, grabbed his arm, and pulled it around her waist, holding his hand, with her own, close to her chest.
Jack could smell the lavender vanilla scent of the shampoo the nurse's aide had used when washing Elizabeth's hair earlier in the day. She'd quickly fallen back to sleep; her breathing was slow and rhythmic. Her body was warm, and although he'd known how well they fit together when they'd danced on the dinner cruise days before, he was excitedly pleased by how each bend and curve of her body seemed to match his perfectly.
Even though Elizabeth meant well when she offered to share her bed with him to sleep, he was fairly certain that he would be unable to close his eyes. Actually, more than anything else, he was shocked at himself for jumping into bed with her without a thought of the rumors that would take flight if anyone found them in such a compromising situation. However, he had spent days worried about her; he was exhausted, and probably wasn't thinking straight. He settled into the bed, snuggled against her; their bodies touching from shoulders to toes, and he propped his head up on his hand as his elbow dug into the fairly flat and uncomfortable hospital pillow and watched her as she peacefully slept.
Although he was certainly aware that there would be no physical activity between them, and it was too early in their relationship to even discuss the topic, he was quite surprised that she'd made the bold offer to share her bed with him. Additionally, he was becoming quite aware of how Elizabeth, her scent, voice, and touch could so easily affect his body, awakening parts of himself which had lay dormant for so long.
Feeling surprisingly comfortable and as if his body were meant to be pressed up against hers, he closed his eyes and drifted off to sleep.
4:45am…
Elizabeth's room door opened, and noises could be heard in the hallway. Not wanting to be found in Elizabeth's bed (oh, the rumors…), Jack threw the covers back and "BAM" he fell out into the floor.
"Dr. Thornton, are you alright?" Courtney, Elizabeth's night nurse called out as she rushed over and helped him up off the floor.
Worried about the rumors that he could only imagine would now run rampant through the hospital, Jack stated, "I wasn't, um…" He stopped. Looking in Elizabeth's bed, she was still asleep, and her blanket hadn't been touched. The chair beside her bed, however, was on its side, and he was still wearing his white coat and shoes.
"What happened?" he asked.
"I did patient rounds during the night, and I actually tried to wake you up several times. You couldn't have been comfortable. I'm sorry, but I think I startled you this time, and you fell out of the chair," Courtney explained.
"Oh, so I wasn't…"
"Excuse me…?" Courtney asked.
Realizing that he must have been dreaming, Jack responded, "Never mind. Thank you for taking care of Elizabeth."
"No problem. She seemed to rest very comfortably during the night. I can't say the same thing for you, however…" she giggled.
Morning- 9:35am…
Elizabeth was passing time scrolling her Facebook account when Matthew, the physical therapist, slipped into the room. "Hello, Ms. Thatcher, and how are you feeling today?"
"If I'm being completely honest, I'm a bit stir crazy," Elizabeth responded.
"Well, I know you are getting out tomorrow, but what do you say we use a walker and go exploring a little bit…"
"Can't I just walk?" she asked.
"Well, you've been in bed for nearly a week, and your muscles may want to fight you on that," he explained. "Let's first try the walker and just go to the door and back. We can work our way up to maybe a trip to the nurse's station."
"WOW, you have no faith in me, do you?" Elizabeth sounded frustrated.
"It's best to take it slow…"
Elizabeth pulled the blanket back and moved her legs over the side of the bed. Just as her feet hit the floor, she lost her balance and fell into Matthew's arms.
"Am I interrupting?" Jack asked as he walked in and found Matthew's arms wrapped around Elizabeth's body. "Oh, hi Matt…"
"Hi, Dr. Thornton. We're just getting a PT session in before Ms. Thatcher is discharged."
"Hmm, well, seems to me that you might want to use the walker instead of your hands," the comment rushed from Jack's mouth before he could stop it.
"Jack, he just caught me as I was falling. Would you rather I hit the floor?" Elizabeth quipped.
"No, of course not," Jack responded, internally chastising himself as he knew his response would only add to any rumors that were likely to circulate around the hospital.
Jack stood by the bathroom door, watching as Elizabeth took one tentative step after another. He couldn't help feeling jealous of Matthew's hands as they rested on Elizabeth's body, where her waist sloped into her hips, preparing to catch her should she take a misstep.
He peeked around the doorway as Elizabeth, resting on the walker, continued out of her room and across the hall where she turned around and slowly returned to her bed.
"See, I can do it…" Elizabeth proclaimed.
"Okay, if you feel up to it, I'll stop back by after dinner, and maybe we can take another stroll together," Matthew suggested.
"Stroll together…" Jack hmphed. "This isn't a date…" he softly muttered.
"Did you say something, Jack?" Elizabeth asked.
"Oh, uh, no…" he replied, knowing that he'd be camped out in her room after his evening rounds.
Elizabeth may not have heard Jack's utterings, but Matthew certainly did, "Uh, are you two…" he didn't finish his question, but by the way he flipped his fingers in the air between Jack and Elizabeth, Jack knew what he meant.
"Yes, we are, is that a problem…?"
"Jack…" Elizabeth called out, concerned by his stern tone.
"Absolutely not. I just wasn't aware that you were dating each other. You know the rumor mill around here; I guess that one slipped through," Matthew stated before excusing himself with a promise to stop by later for another trip out into the hallway.
"Do you mind telling me what that was all about?" she asked.
"What…?" Jack replied.
"What was that display just now?"
"Look, I'm sorry; it's just that…"
"Are you jealous, Jack? I mean, Matthew was here in his role as a physical therapist, nothing more."
"I know, I guess when I walked in and found him with his hands all over you…"
Elizabeth laughed, "Seriously. He caught me before I fell."
"Logically, I know that. Look, I'm just a little on edge, that's all," Jack stated as he took a seat on the side of her bed and placed her hand in his. "I'm sorry. I've never been the jealous type," he apologized but also realized that Elizabeth was the first woman he'd ever dated that he felt somewhat possessive about. Certainly not in an 'I'm holding you hostage kind of way,' but simply in an 'I'm exclusive with you, and you're exclusive with me' way.
"Jack, you're bound to be exhausted. I mean, you're here all the time, and you can't possibly be getting enough rest…"
"Do you not want me here?"
Elizabeth smiled, "You know I do, but Jack, you need sleep, too. I'm worried about you."
"I'm fine, and before long, this whole court thing will be over and you can move on," his thumb gently brushed across the back of her hand.
He was thankful. According to Matthew, the rumor mill was apparently quiet, giving them some time to discuss what said rumors may mean to them.
"I accepted the job…" and just like that, Elizabeth's announcement opened the six-lane interstate highway to Rumorsville.
11:15am…
"Good morning, sweetheart," Mrs. Thatcher called out as she entered Elizabeth's room just ahead of her husband.
"Good morning, mom. Did you get some rest last night?" Elizabeth asked.
"I did. I slept quite well. How about you?"
"Well, Jack encouraged me to take my nighttime pain meds, and I have to say, I don't think I moved at all during the night."
Mr. Thatcher stepped toward the bed, leaned over and kissed Elizabeth on the forehead. "We came by earlier, but you were busy with physical therapy. How did that go?"
Elizabeth blew out a hard breath, "I didn't realize that it was going to be so hard to get back my strength. Matthew was really good, but since I'm being released tomorrow, I think I only have one more session with him this afternoon."
Her father stood next to his wife, who was seated in a chair by the bed. Looking quite stern, he asked, "Well, I know this is a sore topic, and I'm sure I know the answer, but the offer still stands for you to come home, even if it's only for a little while."
"Daddy…"
"Elizabeth, I hate arguing with you about this, but how are you going to get to physical therapy, and doctor's appointments, not to mention you haven't made any decisions about work…have you?"
Elizabeth opened her mouth, but Jack's voice came out. Having followed closely behind her parents as they entered her hospital room, Jack stated, "Mr. Thatcher, I'll see that Elizabeth gets to any medical appointments and as far as physical therapy goes, I'll hire someone to take her on privately if necessary."
"Well, that's very thoughtful of you, Jack," he responded, "but certainly not your obligation. I mean, with your schedule, I'd assume that it would put a burden on you to take on Elizabeth's care, as well."
"It is no burden, sir…"
"Jack, as head of the Cardiac Department, you certainly don't have time to take on Elizabeth's health care too. I still feel that it would be better for Elizabeth to return to Boston with her mother and me."
"Sir…" Jack started to interject but was immediately shot down.
"Jack, Elizabeth's mother and I can't thank you enough for what you have done, but we're responsible for her care; although much appreciated, you are not obligated."
Jack understood that Mr. Thatcher's heart was in the right place. As a parent, he and Mrs. Thatcher were bound to be terrified to leave Elizabeth after what she'd been through. However, he couldn't stand by and watch as they bullied her into returning home. "Mr. Thatcher, I do understand how you feel, and I will stand behind Elizabeth no matter what her decision is, but please know that I don't feel obligated in making my offer. I just want her, and you, to know that I'm here to do anything she needs to get her through this."
"And we appreciate that, Jack. But…"
With her voice louder than normal to speak over the two men in the room discussing her future, Elizabeth jumped into the conversation. "Have you both forgotten that I'm right here in this room? Daddy, does what I want mean anything?" Elizabeth was beginning to feel as though she was at a tennis match with all the back and forth between her father and Jack.
"Of course, it does, honey," her father quickly responded. "Your mother and I are just…"
"Afraid to let me go. But daddy, I'm a grown woman and I can take care of myself…"
Glancing around her hospital room, and taking in the beeping machines, her father stopped and focused on her battered body, laying in bed. "Well, yes, that's obvious…"
"Please, let's not argue about me going home to Boston," Elizabeth loved her father, but she also knew how frustrating he could be. "We've discussed this over and over. I'm staying; please accept that I'm not changing my mind."
Maybe it wasn't Jack's place to respond, but his mouth opened, and words flew out before his brain connected. "Mr. Thatcher, as a doctor I've seen the negatives of this city…"
Elizabeth inwardly smiled until she realized that Jack's comment started out far from a glowing endorsement for her staying in the city. 'What are you doing?' she thought. As he continued, she realized where his comments were headed and slightly relaxed.
"But, Mr. Thatcher, Chicago isn't the only city with crime. Boston is not immune, nor is Los Angeles, Washington, D.C., or Pungo, Virginia for that matter."
"What's your point, Jack?" her father asked.
"Mr. Thatcher, the truth is that what happened here could have happened anywhere. Crime happens everywhere, and you can do everything in your power to prevent being victimized, but some things you can't prevent no matter where you live."
"Elizabeth is not equipped to live in a city like this," her father argued back.
"I disagree, sir. Elizabeth took a self-defense class which will obviously help her no matter where she lives, and…"
Mr. Thatcher cut Jack off and blurted out, "It certainly didn't help her that night. She could have died, Jack. She needs to come home," her father pushed harder.
"Mr. Thatcher, do you have any idea of the damage Elizabeth did to Ethan?" Jack asked, feeling the need to show her father how capable she is without breaking patient confidentiality.
"What are you talking about?" Mr. Thatcher asked.
"I wish I could answer your question completely, but just know that your daughter did a fantastic job protecting herself."
"Protecting herself…look at her, Jack. He almost killed her…"
"Mr. Thatcher, self defense isn't just successful if you don't get hurt; it simply means that you have skills, and you do what you have to in order to protect yourself until you can get away. The goal is to survive. Elizabeth is not a victim. She survived, and I'm so proud of her," Jack was emphatic as he glanced in her direction and smiled.
"The fact is, she could have been killed, and if it weren't for you interceding, she probably would have been. I'm sorry, but she needs to…"
"Stop, daddy…"
Jack had heard enough… "Maybe I don't have a horse in this race, and what I say doesn't matter, but I care about Elizabeth, and I want her to do whatever makes her happy… (please let that mean you are staying here with me).
"I'm not discussing this again. Daddy, I mean it. I know you are used to getting what you want, but this is my life, and I'm living it here…in Chicago. Staying here is what will make me happy…" Elizabeth exclaimed. "Daddy, I love you and mom dearly, and I know I am blessed to have parents who are so concerned for me. Aside from my problems with Ethan, I love Chicago, and the people I've met are special to me. So, I am staying with Rosie until I find another place, and as soon as I'm able, I will start that search. As far as appointments go, I can call an Uber or Lyft, so please, both of you, don't treat me like I'm an invalid…"
"I'm sorry. I don't mean to bully you, it's just that we love you so much, and have been so worried about you since the first attack," her father admitted. "I'll try not to push the issue if you promise to let us know if you need anything, or if you want to come home…even if it's just for a visit."
"I promise, daddy…"
"I'm sorry, too, Elizabeth; I didn't mean to imply that you couldn't handle things on your own, but I am here, and I'm available to help out with anything you may need," Jack stepped to the other side of her bed, slipped his hand under hers as it rested alongside her body.
Caitlin, Elizabeth's day nurse, peeked her head in the room, "Just checking to see if you want any pain meds…it's time, if you do."
"Yes, she does," Jack called out before remembering that although he knew it was in her best healing interests to take the pain medication, he knew he couldn't make that decision for her.
Glancing from Caitlin back to Elizabeth he quickly added, "I'm sorry; it's your decision."
"Well, thank you for realizing that," she replied. Turning her attention to the nurse, Elizabeth responded, "Yes, I think I'd like to have something."
Caitlin disappeared and Elizabeth turned her attention to her father, "Did you go by the apartment this morning?"
"I did…" he replied.
Worried about how difficult the visual of the scene had to be, her eyes expressed the anxiety she felt when she asked, "Did mom…"
Before she could complete her question, her father interrupted, "No, she stayed in the lobby with Henry."
"How bad is it?" she asked.
"I've made arrangements for a crew to come in and replace the carpet, and paint. There was bl…, well it was dirty, and I," he wiped at his eyes, "I just wanted it replaced and painted. You don't need to go back there. A moving company will pack up your clothes and belongings and store them until you need them," he advised.
"Well, I'll need my clothes, so is it possible to have those delivered to Rosie's place?" she asked.
"I'll make the arrangements," her father replied. "Also, I've hired a real estate firm, and they will take care of selling it. The offers will come to me, but I promise, you can make the decision on anything we consider."
"I feel like I…" she stopped. Feeling the need to physically see her apartment in order to put the entire ordeal behind her, she knew it would cause a fight with her parents, so she simply added, "never mind…"
"I know you, Elizabeth, and I know what you were going to say, but I don't want you going back there. You just don't need to see it again," her father strongly suggested. "Let me take care of this for you…"
"Thank you, daddy," Elizabeth replied without providing any assurance that she'd stay away, and knowing in her mind that she would see it for herself at her first opportunity.
Friday morning- 5:30am…
Jack walked into Elizabeth's room and found her walking back to bed from the bathroom. "What are you doing out of bed?"
"Well, unless you want me to relieve myself in my bed, I made a trip to the bathroom," she replied.
Jack was livid; not with her but her nurse. "Where is your nurse; you could have fallen?"
"I didn't call her. It was just a trip to the bathroom, Jack. I mean, I wasn't heading out to Starbucks…"
"Elizabeth, this isn't funny," Jack approached her and helped her back into bed. "You could have fallen, and no one would have known."
'I'm sorry. I don't mean to make light of this, it's just that I'm not used to feeling so helpless. I mean, I'd like to be able to use the restroom by myself," she responded. With the court hearing only hours away, Elizabeth was feeling quite emotional as tears rolled down her cheeks.
"No, I'm the one who's sorry," Jack stated softly as he took a seat on the side of her bed. "I'm just worried about you, but I don't mean to sound overbearing." Jack brushed away her tears, "What's wrong…?"
"Just nervous, I guess…"
Jack took hold of her hand and rested it in his, as two fingers from his other hand gently pressed against her wrist.
"Jack, are you taking my pulse…?"
"Maybe…"
"Do you always have to act like my doctor?"
Jack glanced back toward her door before leaning forward and capturing her lips with his. He found her lips to be warm as the machine monitoring her vitals picked up an increase in her heart rate. Breaking their connection, he whispered, "I'm not acting like a doctor now."
Elizabeth smiled. Suddenly preoccupied, she stated softly, "I guess today is the day," as her eyes dropped down to her lap.
Jack's finger under her chin lifted her head upward until her eyes met his, "I'll be there, and so will your parents, and Rosie, and Lee is coming too. You won't be alone, and the bailiffs will keep order in the court, so don't worry…you'll be safe."
"Gwen is coming to court, too…"
Surprised, Jack responded, "That's odd, isn't it? I mean, I guess it's nice to have people around you during this time, but you two have just met, right?"
"Jack, maybe I shouldn't tell anyone this, but…"
"What is it?"
"I don't know all the particulars, but apparently Ethan attacked Gwen when she was in college. She didn't tell anyone, and she's embarrassed and feels responsible for what he did to me."
"WOW, he's just the plague that keeps on giving. That poor girl; what he has made her live with. Well, today is his day of reckoning."
"Please don't say anything to anyone, okay?"
"Elizabeth, I won't say anything, and I'm glad that you two have connected. I think you can help her a lot."
"She can help me too."
"I'm sure, but remember, I'm here too."
"I know Jack, and I appreciate you more than you could ever know," she stated as her nervousness caught Jack's eye.
"It's going to be okay today, Elizabeth… you'll be safe."
"I believe you, and I'm not thinking that he'll be able to get to me somehow. I just hope he doesn't get it continued…again," although she said the words, a sense of dread about the entire court process consumed her.
"Well, if he does get another continuance, then we'll just deal with it. Either way, he'll be in jail, so he'll stand trial today on the first attack, or he'll wait in jail for his new trial date. No matter what, you'll be safe." Jack swallowed hard, "I won't let anything happen to you, Elizabeth."
Her eyes watered, "You know, I've fought with everyone about being able to get this court date over with, and now…now, I'm scared to death."
"Honey," the term of endearment slipped through his lips so casually, as if it were a normal pet name, he'd used with her before, "I promise you; I'll do whatever I have to do to keep you safe."
"I just want it to be over…" she replied, her voice sounding weak.
"I'm going to make my rounds, and then I'll be free to go…" he leaned down and kissed her forehead. He started for the door when her voice stopped him in his tracks.
Although Elizabeth felt extremely safe with Jack, she couldn't deny the feeling that he was upset about something. Maybe going to court was his way of following through with an obligation he felt to her, or possibly it had to do with her job change, or who could blame him if it had to do with the danger she'd brought into his life. No matter what it was, she'd asked if he was okay, and he apparently didn't want to talk about it. So, she thought, 'maybe he needed an out…'
"Jack, you're a busy man, and I have the others going with me; you don't have to go."
"Do you not want me to go?" He sounded hurt and disappointed.
"No, of course not. It's just that you're a doctor with a lot of people depending on you. I understand if you can't go…"
"When I learned of the court date, I had Stacy clear my calendar. So, unless you tell me that you don't want me there, I will be there, sitting beside you holding your hand, and when you testify, you find me and talk to me. Don't look at Ethan, you look at me," Jack took hold of her hand and lifted it to his lips. "You're going to make it through this; I promise."
Elizabeth looked into Jack's eyes, easily holding his gaze, "Look, I have to be honest. I know something is bothering you. I don't know what it is because you won't talk about it, although I do have my suspicions. I know we haven't been seeing each other for very long, but I can't help but think that you're maybe realizing that I'm more than what you bargained for. So, really, I understand if you want to walk away; I'll be fine," she responded. Although she sounded sincere, she also knew that in his arms was where she felt the most safe and comfortable, and him walking away she believed would literally kill her.
Jack walked back toward her, taking a seat in the metal chair beside her bed. Lifting her hand, he glanced around to find her door remained closed. Holding her hand to his lips he kissed her open palm. His voice started out as a whisper, "I'm not upset with you, nor do I want or intend to walk away from you…from us. Elizabeth, I've been told from a most unlikely source that communication in a relationship is extremely important. Sadly, that has never been my strong suit. Talking about feelings has never come easily for me. But then again, until I met you, I don't think I was ever invested enough in anyone to really want something to work. So, I know I need to open myself up and talk about things that are on my mind. However, communication goes both ways, so can you meet me half way?"
"Jack, I know what you're saying, and I agree that communication is important. I guess I just have so much going on in my head right now that I'm not sure I understand it myself, let alone be able to explain it to someone else."
"That's fair…" Jack brushed a loose strand of auburn hair behind her ear, "I know we need to talk, but please do not think that I'm upset with you, because I'm not. Above all, Elizabeth, I want you to be happy. So, after court, what do you say we send Rosie and Lee to the club, order some pizza, and try out this 'communication' thing…? If you don't want pizza, we can have something else…"
"I'd like that very much," she smiled. "So, you aren't mad at me…?"
His smile warmed her heart, "No, I'm not mad, and I'd like to be in court to help support you… if that's okay."
"I want you there, but, Jack…some things may come out about the attack and I'm just afraid it may change how you feel about me."
"That won't happen…"
"But Jack, you can't say that… you have no idea, I mean, he tried to ra…"
"Shh," Jack stood up and moved closer. Taking a seat on the side of the bed, he leaned over and carefully held her in his arms. "I know about both attacks, and the point is, he tried, but you fought back. You are not a victim…you are a survivor, and I am so proud of you." He leaned her back, allowing her head to rest on her pillow.
"Thank you…"
"I'll make sure all of your paperwork is ready to sign and I should be back about 7:45. I'm going to see Marcus now."
"Oh gosh, I almost forgot. How is he doing?" she asked.
"He's great. He's in a regular room, and I'm going to discharge him in a few days. He'll be assigned to homebound school for a few more weeks and we'll play his return to regular school by ear."
"Let him know that I'll be by to see him soon. I'd like to not be a walking bruise when I see him."
"I'll tell him," Jack advised. "I'll see you in a little while. Your parents will probably be here when I get back."
Jack made certain her door was still closed and they were alone before leaning down and pressing his lips to hers. Her lips were slightly dry, but seemed to soften and melt into his upon his touch. "I do look forward to doing more of that once you're out of here. That is as long as you approve."
"I approve…I wholeheartedly approve…"
"Well, Elizabeth, I believe that today will end everything, I just feel it. Who knows after he's convicted today, maybe they'll just throw away the key."
After leaving her room, he made one stop before heading off to complete his rounds.
6 am…
Before making his way to Marcus' room, Jack stopped off at the cashier's office.
"Good morning, Margaret," he stated as he approached.
"Good morning, Jack. How are you?"
"I'm doing well, and you?"
"Well, these early mornings are getting harder and harder on my old body. I'm retiring in three months," she stated a smile covered her face with the thought of sleeping in.
"Oh no, who's going to bring in those fabulous Danish that you've gotten us hooked on?"
"Oh Jack, you're too kind. I tell you what, if you promise to give me that adorable dimply smile, I'll still bring some by, just not so early in the morning."
"Deal…"
"So, I have no Danish this morning, but what can I do for you?"
"Um, I want to take care of a patient's bill."
"Oh my…"
Jack gave her the dimply smile she so loved, "She's someone very special."
"Jack Thornton, it has finally happened…someone has stolen your heart."
"Uh, guilty. Anyway, her family has the financial means, but I just don't want her worrying about anything."
"I understand, and you know as well as I do that the hospital doesn't care who pays, they just want to make certain that someone does…"
"Okay, well, I know it's early and you may not have it ready, but send the bill to my office, and I'll take care of it."
"I worked on today's discharges yesterday, what's her name?"
"Elizabeth Thatcher…"
"From what I can remember, she has great insurance, there's very little left on her bill."
"Okay, well, will you check, and any outstanding charges, please send it to my office."
"Consider it done," Margaret responded.
"Oh, and can we keep this between us?"
"Absolutely, she stated before walking into her office and closing the door, having a few things to do before raising the gate on the cashier window.
Elizabeth's room… (6:30am)
"Good morning, Ms. Elizabeth," Mary, a hospital employee called out as she placed a breakfast tray on the table."
"Good morning, Mary. I'm not really hungry, so you can take the tray back, if you'd like," Elizabeth replied.
"Well, I need to leave it and maybe you'll feel like eating in a little while," Mary advised. "Can I get you anything while I'm in here?"
"Thank you, but no, I'm fine."
Northwestern Memorial Hospital- First Floor… (7am)
Elizabeth's parents, Rosie and Lee arrived at the hospital at the same time. Lee and Rosie took the elevator upstairs to visit Elizabeth, and her parents stopped off in the business office to take care of Elizabeth's hospital bill, only to find out that all expenses were covered.
"By whom?" Mr. Thatcher asked.
"Insurance, sir, and whatever was left over has already been taken care of," the cashier stated.
"Again, who paid it?" he asked.
"I'm sorry; I don't have that information."
"Where can I get that information?" Mr. Thatcher inquired.
"Oh, I'm sorry sir. I don't see anything. It simply shows that there is a zero balance."
"Thank you very much," Mr. Thatcher responded.
"That's odd," Mr. Thatcher muttered to his wife as they headed for the elevator.
"Maybe Elizabeth called down to take care of it…" she suggested. "You know how she likes to be self-sufficient."
"I guess so…"
Elizabeth's Room…
"Is Lee here," Elizabeth asked Rosie.
"He's in the waiting room. I think he doesn't want you to feel crowded, and you haven't really gotten a chance to get to know him, so he doesn't want you feeling uncomfortable," Rosie explained.
"Please tell him that I don't want him isolating himself from me. I mean, he's dating my best friend, and I'm dating…" she stopped before starting again, "I don't know after what happens today if I'll still be dating his best friend or not, but please tell him he's welcome to come in."
"I'll let him know," Rosie replied. "You and Lee will get to know each other when you move in. He's a great guy, Elizabeth, and from what I can tell, so is Jack."
"I'm sure you're right about Lee. After all, you wouldn't be seeing him if he weren't," Elizabeth pulled her covers back. "Will you help me get dressed?"
"Absolutely… you aren't attached to any machines, are you?"
"No, the nurse removed everything a little while ago."
Rosie grabbed Elizabeth's clothes and helped her into the bathroom.
Finally dressed, Elizabeth looked in Rosie's direction, "Thank you for helping me, and for being here."
"Girl, you know I wouldn't be any other place right now. You are my best friend in this entire world, and you're going to get through this, I promise."
Elizabeth smiled as they made their way back toward her bed, taking a seat so Rosie could help her with her slip-on shoes.
"My dad has been pushing me to go back to Boston," Elizabeth advised.
"Well, knowing your dad like I do, that doesn't surprise me," Rosie responded. "You don't want to leave, do you?"
"No, and I'm not going to. My life is here…"
"Your future with Jack is here, too. Don't forget that."
When Elizabeth didn't respond, Rosie asked, "You and Jack are okay, right? I mean because I know that guy is crazy about you."
"We're fine, at least I assume we are. Anyway, after court, we're going to talk, so, I guess we can see at that point if we can move forward."
Noticing Elizabeth seemed withdrawn, Rosie asked, "Are you worried about court?"
"Yeah, I just don't know what to expect."
"Well, we'll all be there to support you…you aren't alone."
"That's what Jack said, but…"
"But what, Elizabeth?"
"I like him, Rosie. I mean, the 'Jonathan' stuff aside, I know why he did it, and I can't hold him to a different standard than I hold myself. I lied, too."
"So, what's wrong?" Rosie asked.
"He says it's not a big deal, but I almost got him killed. I'm sorry, but I happen to think that's a big deal," Elizabeth replied, wiping tears away as they rolled down her cheeks.
"First of all, you didn't do anything. What happened is on Ethan, not you," Rosie stated, her matter-of-fact tone was noted. "Anyway, once you get out of here and settled into my place, you and Jack can start dating like normal people," Rosie suggested as her hand, resting on Elizabeth's arm, gave her a slight squeeze.
"I know you're going to tell me that Jack is a good guy, and trust me, I know, but…I don't know, it's all just been a lot. Can you understand that?"
"I do understand, but please let those around you help. You are always the one who wants to help everyone else; let us help you this time," Rosie stated as she gave Elizabeth a tender hug.
"I appreciate everything; I really do. I mean, absolutely everything…sitting in the hospital all the time so I'm not alone, giving me a place to stay, your understanding ears…all of it, and I'll get out of your hair as soon as I can."
"Hey, it will be like a pajama party. Remember all of those we used to have…it brings back good memories."
"Yes, I remember, but I'm worried about infringing on your privacy, Rosie. So, if it gets to be too much, you can kick me out."
"Elizabeth, I am so happy to have you come and stay. Besides, when you and Jack want time alone, you let me know and I'll stay over at Lee's."
"Wait…what…are you two…?" Elizabeth's eyebrows raised, stopping before she finished asking the question.
"Don't look at me as if I've committed the worst sin known to man," Rosie responded, disappointed that she wasn't able to provide this little tidbit of her relationship with Lee before now. "You aren't going to look down at me because I'm not a virgin, are you? Because we know that train has long since left the station. I mean, I've never looked differently because you are, so I hope you don't think poorly of Lee or me because we aren't waiting."
"Rosie, of course not. We all have to do what is right for us…but are you that sure about Lee?"
"Elizabeth, he is like no other man I have ever known. We are perfect together, and yes, without a doubt, I am sure about him," she assured Elizabeth.
"Well then, I'm happy for you…both of you."
"And I'm happy for you," Rosie parroted Elizabeth's sentiment. "Jack is crazy about you, and from what I've seen and from what Lee has told me, he's a catch."
"Well, I'm not sure about him being crazy about me, but since I almost got him killed, he may just be crazy if he stays around."
"Well, just take things slow. Something about Jack tells me that he doesn't shy away easily…especially if it's something, or someone that he wants."
"Well, you know men just like I do. Putting him in harm's way somehow ignites their need to protect, but once he finds out that I'm a…" Elizabeth glanced toward her door and lowered her voice to a whisper before proceeding "virgin, that may be the push that has him walking away…or rather running."
"Elizabeth, I know I'm not a…" Rosie took Elizabeth's lead and began to whisper, "virgin, but I don't sleep around. I've only been with two guys…"
"Before Lee…" Elizabeth smiled, being well aware of Rosie's history since they tell each other everything, or at least they had until recently.
"Yes, two guys before Lee, but I can tell you, I believe if I hadn't been ready, Lee would have been willing to wait. So will Jack. I feel it in my bones."
"I'm just so tired of getting to the point in dating where guys think I should be, you know, giving it up, and when I don't, they walk, and in some cases, run." Elizabeth's expression moved from confusion to frustration and settled on anger.
Trying to curb her inner turmoil, Elizabeth took a deep breath, which did little to soften her feelings. "You know, some dates I've been on, the guy expects you to sleep over on the first night, or even better, they buy you dinner and as you leave the restaurant, they're pulling you toward the elevator of the connecting hotel to take you to the room they've already reserved. The nerve of some guys. It's sad, but nothing surprises me anymore," Elizabeth muttered through a defeated breath. "So, I'm just preparing myself for another let down."
"Well, I think you should just enjoy your time with Jack, and when the topic comes up, and I'm sure it will, you'll find that he's a really good guy, and he'll surprise you."
"Why are you so trusting?" Elizabeth asked. "I mean, I really have no reason to think otherwise, and heaven knows he put his life on the line for me, but you've spent even less time with Jack than I have. Why are you so sure about him?"
"Because I'm sure about Lee, and I don't believe that Lee would have the high opinion of Jack that he has if he wasn't the good guy and you and I both know he is."
"You're right, but he can still be a good guy and realize that my baggage is too much for him."
"Elizabeth, please just take a deep breath and enjoy this man who is so obviously in love with you…"
"WHOA, no one has said anything about the "L" word, and I'd appreciate it if you would keep that to yourself."
"Oh, ye of little faith. You've already told me that you like Jack…a lot. I predict that there will be many double dates in our future…me with Lee, and my bestie, meaning you, with his bestie, meaning Jack."
Before Elizabeth could respond, Rosie continued, "Hey, have you accepted the job here in the hospital?"
"I did, but I still need to give my notice with social services."
"That's great. You and Jack can see each other more often, maybe sneak lunch together, and depending on where your next apartment ends up being, you two could ride into work together."
"I really don't see that happening…"
"Which part?" Rosie asked.
"Maybe all of it, but I especially can't see us riding into work together. That just seems so final-like, you know, almost like we're living together. And the truth is…well, I shouldn't say anything because we really haven't talked about it, but I get the distinct feeling that Jack would rather I stay with social services."
"Why…? I've seen the way he looks at you, and I mean, really Elizabeth, the man sat in your hospital room all night, and then some. He's into you; I can tell."
"Maybe so, but enjoying spending time with someone, and having them around all the time are two different things. Possibly he's been in this situation before, and it didn't end well… I don't know. I mean, it would be nice to grab lunch together some time, or get a cup of coffee occasionally, but I'm not going to be following him around like a sad little puppy dog," Elizabeth stated seemingly confused by his feelings regarding her new job. "I get the feeling he thinks I'll be suffocating him," she released a hard breath. "You know, now that I think about it…oh never mind."
"Nope, ain't gonna happen. What's on your mind, Elizabeth?"
"I know Jack is a nice guy, but maybe he just feels responsible for what happened to me or something. I don't know, I mean, he shouldn't, if in fact he does. What happened is all on Ethan."
"Have you forgotten that he spent $45,000 just to have one date with you?"
"Rosie, it wasn't $45,000…"
Rosie smiled, "So, how much was it?"
"$35,000…"
"I knew that; I just thought I needed to remind you. Don't you see how crazy your thoughts are? I mean, this guy spent $35,000 for one date…just one date with you. You can't tell me that he's not into you…"
"Well, that should show how crazy he is right there. I mean, seriously…who spends that kind of money on a date with a woman he's just met?"
"A man who knows his heart and what he's been looking for. A man who maybe met this woman who turned his world upside down from the moment he laid eyes on her." Rosie smiled broadly, "I think he's a man who was afraid to let this woman get away before giving them a shot at something real and beautiful together."
"WOW, you are such a Hallmark romantic…"
"Oh, and don't act like you aren't one, too…" Rosie replied. "Whatever it is, don't question it, Elizabeth. Enjoy it…" Rosie remarked. "Besides, regarding working in the same building doesn't mean you will see each other all the time. He's a cardiologist and you're a social worker. Are you likely to cross paths for work?" she asked.
"I guess it could happen, you know like in Marcus' situation, but general cases, probably not."
"Well, I believe it'll all work out. And maybe, just maybe, he'll realize how wonderful it will be to work in the same hospital together," Rosie stated as a tap on Elizabeth's door signified a visitor.
"Come in…" Elizabeth called out.
"Good morning sweetheart; how are you feeling this morning?" her father asked, but was fairly certain he knew she was nervous.
"Okay; I'll just be glad when this whole thing is over," Elizabeth replied. "I know I'm being silly, but I'm starting to get a bad feeling that today isn't going to go the way I'm hoping. I'll bet he tries to get another continuance."
"It's going to be fine," her mother responded. "He's in custody, and if they grant him a continuance, given the last attack, I'm sure the judge will keep him in jail. Either way, don't worry; I'm sure the court officers will maintain order."
"I know, but I'm just worried about having to face him again." Elizabeth turned to Rosie, "Do you think you could put some makeup on me to help cover some of the bruises?"
"No problem," she stated as she opened her purse and pulled out a small bag.
Thirty minutes later, Elizabeth's black eye and bruises along her jaw were barely noticeable. Nothing could be done to hide the bandage covering the stitches along the top of her forehead, or disguise her slow cautious movements.
"No, no way…" Elizabeth called out when Jack walked into her room pushing a wheelchair.
"I'm sorry, but it's hospital policy," Jack stated.
"Jack, you're the head of Cardiology, can't you make an exception?" she pleaded.
"I maybe could, but I'm not going to. Do you remember how difficult it was for you to walk from here to the wall across the hall?" he watched as she frowned and lowered her head. His finger under her chin lifted her face upward, her eyes eventually meeting his. "I'm not taking a chance on your health and safety,"
His eyes watered when he observed her wince as she stood only to twist her body in order to take a seat in the wheelchair. "Are you okay?"
"I think so. No, I mean, I will be…" she replied. "I just want this whole thing to be over with…"
"Are you due any pain medication before we go?" he asked.
"I think I am, but Jack, I don't want anyone on his team to say that I'm not remembering things clearly because I'm under the influence…"
"You aren't smoking pot, Elizabeth. You're on medication prescribed by a doctor."
"I know. The pharmacy dropped off my medications and I'll take something after court."
"I'm going to get my car, and I'll pull around to the entrance. A nurse will bring you down," Jack advised.
The nurse took Elizabeth downstairs to the entrance where they met Jack whose Range Rover was parked at the front entrance. Rosie waited for Lee as Elizabeth was helped into the SUV.
Jack lifted the rear door, "I'm taking this to use at court, and I'll bring it back later today," he stated to the nurse as he lifted the wheelchair into the back of his vehicle.
The drive to court took longer than anticipated due to traffic. Pulling into the parking lot, Jack found a spot, parked, and jumped out to grab the wheelchair from the back.
"Jack," Mr. Thatcher called out as he met Jack at the back of the vehicle, "Elizabeth's mother and I would like to have a word with the prosecutor before the hearing. Would you be able to get Elizabeth inside without my help?"
"Yes sir; go ahead. We'll be fine," Jack responded as Mr. Thatcher helped his wife out of the SUV and they headed for the courthouse.
"Hey, where are they going?" Elizabeth called out to Jack.
"Your dad needs to talk to the prosecutor before court," he replied.
With the wheelchair open and the back of the SUV now closed, he rolled the chair toward the passenger side of his vehicle. He opened the door and held out his hand to help her outside.
"What's that for?" she asked, holding onto the door of the SUV, refusing to take a seat in the wheelchair.
"Look, I know you don't like it…I get it, but it's way too far for you to walk to the courthouse."
Swinging her body around, she rested her bottom on the seat she'd just vacated. Looking somewhat defeated, she responded, "Jack, I can't let him see me like this. Don't you see…if he sees me being pushed around in a wheelchair, he's won; he's beaten me," her head lowered as her glance met the parking lot pavement.
Jack's finger under her chin lifted her eyes upward, "He hasn't beaten you, Elizabeth. You're here; you're alive, and you will be perfectly fine. He, on the other hand will rot in Hell for the rest of his life for what he's done."
"That remains to be seen."
"Well, I'll believe enough for both of us," Jack stated, his tone was sharp and firm. "Now, I know you don't want to use this," Jack slapped the handle of the wheelchair with his hand, but it's too far for you to walk to court from here."
"Jack…"
Jack interrupted, "Unless, you want to let me carry you…"
"Now you're just making fun of me, Jack…"
He smiled, "So, how about this…we'll use the wheelchair to get you inside the building, and upstairs to the courtroom. Then, and only then, can you walk into court under your own power, but I'll be there, and you can lean on me if you need to."
Elizabeth stretched out her arm to shake his hand. "Deal," she stated as he took hold of her hand with his, pressing two fingers of his other hand against her wrist. Releasing a frustrated breath, she muttered, "Are you taking my pulse again…?"
"Guilty as charged," he replied as he helped her into the wheelchair. "It's a bit fast, but I guess that's understandable given what you're facing."
Lee pulled his vehicle up beside Jack's. Once parked, Rosie burst from the car and rushed to Elizabeth's side, "We've got this, girlfriend…"
The parking lot was filling up quickly as masses of people headed to the various court buildings, city hall, and the rather large library that sat at one end of the expansive complex.
They moved as a group toward the sidewalk, and headed for the courthouse. Ordinarily, this walk wouldn't have felt so long, but on this occasion, their destination seemed to move farther into the distance with every step they took.
"Where are your parents, Elizabeth?" Rosie asked.
"They went into court to talk to Mr. Galbraith…" Elizabeth replied.
"Who's that?" Rosie asked.
"The guy who's supposed to be handling my case, but I feel like he's just dismissed me; you know, not taking my concerns seriously…"
"That's not good," Rosie replied.
"Maybe it's the 'Guy's Club' thing. You know, guys sticking up for guys…"
Jack stopped her wheelchair, and squatted down in front of Elizabeth, "Hey, in case you haven't noticed, I'm a guy; I'm on your side, and I'll always be on your side."
Elizabeth's eyes watered as she smiled, "I noticed, and I appreciate everything you've done for me. I wouldn't be here if it weren't for you, Jack. So, thank you…"
Jack's hands cupped her face as his thumbs brushed over her cheeks, sweeping away tears as they fell. Unbothered by the masses of people scurrying to their various destinations, he leaned forward and pressed his lips gently to hers. "You don't need to thank me for caring about you," he spoke softly before standing and returning to the back of the wheelchair.
Rosie leaned over and whispered in Elizabeth's ear, "See, I told you. He's crazy about you…"
Quietly, the group, consisting of Jack, Elizabeth, Rosie, and Lee continued their trek toward the Circuit Court building.
Pushing the wheelchair on the sidewalk, they were in the open area of the courtyard, halfway between the Juvenile and Circuit Court buildings. Jack talked, but Elizabeth remained silent, and he didn't know if she could hear him, with all the conversations taking place around her, or if her nerves were shutting her down. Attempts by everyone to reassure her that she'd be safe, and Ethan would 'get what he deserves,' seemed to fall flat as he observed her hands begin shaking the closer, they rolled to the circuit court building.
"Are you okay?" he asked, as men and women in professional suits, carrying leather briefcases, strutted passed them, obviously on a mission to get somewhere. Jack stopped and leaned over her shoulder, "Are you okay?" he asked again.
Elizabeth turned her head to somewhat face him, "I guess I'm just nervous."
Sensing that Elizabeth's nerves were getting the better of her, Rosie spoke up, "Hey, I heard this funny joke at work the other day." As she started to recite it, she had to stop and start over multiple times, quickly realizing that she didn't remember half of it, and her punchline was nowhere near as funny as when she originally heard it.
"Sorry, I suck at telling jokes," Rosie stated as her punchline fell flat.
As the group began laughing at Rosie's poor joke telling skills, a woman's screams, and loud male voices could be heard off in the distance. The words were garbled, but the tone was clear. Whatever was happening did not sound like a group passing along Friday morning pleasantries. Only a few moments passed before Jack realized just how potentially dangerous their situation was about to become.
Several men and women, dressed both professionally and casually, began running from behind the Circuit Court building. A few of the women fell when they transitioned from the grass to the sidewalk, but thankfully were helped to their feet by several of the men who guided them to safety.
Jack and Lee scanned the area, each one trying to discern what was happening, and what they could do to keep their girls safe. Rosie and Elizabeth, on the other hand, seemed lost, much like they had not yet comprehended the danger associated with the screams, yelling and sheer terror on the faces of those running away.
More screams and loud voices were heard just before… "BANG, BANG, BANG, BANG, BANG."
"Lee, protect the girls…get them inside the court building," Jack yelled as he began running toward the sound of the gunfire.
"JACK, NO…DON'T…" Elizabeth struggled to get out of the wheelchair, but Lee's arm around her shoulders kept her from doing so. She continued yelling, repeating herself over and over to no avail, either he paid her no mind, or in the chaos, he couldn't hear her pleas.
Lee pushed Elizabeth's wheelchair at a quick pace as he ran toward the court entrance. Finding Rosie lagging behind, he grabbed her arm, practically picking her up when he found her having difficulty running in her heels.
The buildings in the area were immediately placed on lockdown, and although the court building was shut down, a bailiff opened the door and allowed Lee, Rosie and Elizabeth inside before securing the door once again.
Once Elizabeth and Rosie were safely inside the court building, Lee turned to the bailiff, "What's going on?"
"I don't know…" the bailiff replied. "The whole complex is on lockdown."
Lee pushed on the door to leave, "Hey, what part of lockdown did you not understand?" the bailiff yelled as he approached the door.
"My friend is out there; I have to go help him…"
"Look man, since we're in lockdown, I wasn't even supposed to let you in. I'm certainly not going to disobey orders again and let you back out," the bailiff guided Lee away from the door as simultaneously, more screams, gunfire and sirens cracked through the chaos that seemed to be everywhere.
Lee glanced over at Rosie who was squatting in front of Elizabeth's wheelchair, doing her best to calm her in a situation where she herself was far from serene.
"Oh, thank God, Elizabeth; you're okay," her father yelled as he ran down the staircase, his voice barely heard above the multitude of other voices. "Where's Jack?" he asked.
Elizabeth's mouth opened, but she said nothing. She looked upward, catching his glance as tears rolled down her cheeks.
"Lee, where's Jack?" Mr. Thatcher asked again.
"I don't know. I got the girls inside, but the bailiff won't let me back out," he responded. "When the gun went off, he ran toward it…"
Mr. Thatcher walked behind Elizabeth's wheelchair. Leaning down he spoke softly, "I'm sure he will be fine, but I need to get you to the courtroom."
As her tears continued to fall, she cried out, "I don't want to go. I need to find out if he's okay. It's my fault; I know it is…"
"Honey, we don't even know what happened. You're in here; you didn't start this. Please don't worry. It isn't your fault, and I'm sure Jack will be fine," her father attempted to reassure her. "I know that Lee will let us know once he hears something. But if I don't get you upstairs, and they call the case, you don't want him walking because you weren't there, do you?"
"Of course not, but Daddy, why did Jack have to go?"
"I don't know, honey, but I'm sure you'll get a chance to ask him," he responded as they headed toward the second-floor courtrooms with Rosie and Mrs. Thatcher close behind. Lee stood as close to the window as the bailiff would allow, watching…waiting for Jack.
With everything that had happened, Elizabeth forgot about her deal with Jack to walk into the courtroom. Sitting in her wheelchair near a bench in the hallway outside courtroom #2, the door remained locked, keeping everyone outside.
Mr. Galbraith was allowed out of the courtroom, but the bailiff immediately locked the door behind him, refusing even lawyers entry inside. As he stepped into the hallway, he glanced at Elizabeth. Seeing her somewhat distraught appearance, he motioned to Mr. Thatcher, who walked over, meeting him halfway.
Elizabeth tried to maneuver her wheelchair through the multitude of people standing nearby, but either they were unwilling to move, or were themselves unable to give her the room to slip by. She silently cursed those around her who were talking loudly, keeping her from hearing what her father and the prosecutor were discussing. Suddenly, it was as if the ceiling opened and all the noise, people's conversations, lawyers handling phone calls, police radios chattering, children squealing, and bailiff's voices attempting to gain order, flew upward into the sky.
The hallway became eerily quiet, and Elizabeth heard the words she dreaded and had prayed against, "He's dead."
To be continued…
NOTE:
To those who have sent me questions and comments, please know that unless you are signed into the Fan Fiction site, I am unable to respond to you. I would be happy to answer your questions or address your thoughts, but when you sign in as 'Guest,' it keeps me from doing so.
Please know that I have not forgotten my other stories, and do want to update them as soon as possible. Feel free to let me know which stories you want updated and I'll try to get to those first.
