Please read the writer's note at the end
A Brother's Revenge: The Epilogue
Sunday evening,
As the ambulance sped to the hospital, Joe lay on his side holding Frank's hand, he felt safe with his big brother beside him. The steady hum of the vehicle and his brother's presence soothing him into a fragile calm and he drifted off into a restless sleep, overcome by exhaustion and the adrenaline letdown. When they arrived at the hospital they were rushed into the Emergency Room. Joe was oblivious to what was happening around him, the ER staff worked quickly and quietly assessing him and checking his wounds.
Frank followed them and limped into Joe's treatment room, ignoring his own injuries which were a sharp reminder of his fight with Ryan and grateful that they were alive. The orderlies suggested that he use a wheelchair, but he refused, his face showing stubborn resolve. "I'm staying with Joe," Frank said firmly. "I won't leave him." The hospital staff insisted on taking him to another room for treatment. He looked back at Joe, who was laying there in a restless sleep, and gritted his teeth. "I'll be right here when you wake up," he softly assured his brother. He then turned to the staff and said, "Fine, but I need to be near him in case he wakes up. I'm the only one who will be able to keep him calm." In his own room Frank sat quietly while they treated his injuries, placing a cold compress on his knee and stitching the cuts on his face, but the entire time his mind was on Joe. He worried that Joe might sense his fear somehow so he tried to remain calm, knowing that Joe needed him to be strong. The treatment of his injuries was a small relief amid the turmoil and he couldn't wait until he was back by his brothers' side.
Frank's heartbeat matched Joe's in the sterile room, a silent sign of brotherly love. He felt the stitches pull tight and hoped Joe would see him when he woke up—bruised, stitched, and loyal. Frank lay back, his mind storming with memories and rage. The names sounded like curses: Ryan Hayden, Nurse Crazy, and Jake (Henry). All of them had gone too far and committed the worst crime in his book; hurting his little brother and his fiancée. Frank's anger rose as he remembered Callie's words: Ryan's rough handling, the threat to kill her. Ryan and his brother, Jack Hayden, were dead now. But it wasn't enough. Frank's veins boiled with hatred for the injustice that they had all done to Joe, especially Carolyn Matthews, the insane nurse who had tortured his brother. Frank swore to himself that he would track her down and make her pay for what she had done to Joe. She would never be free again if he had his way—she had abused his brother and to him that was unforgivable. Hate was too mild a word and emotion; it was a pale shadow of the fire that consumed him. And then there was Jake (Henry) Hayden, the boy that Joe had tried to help so many months ago who had turned into the lunatic who had framed Frank for his father's murder. By his count Jake had tried to kill him at least three times, but it wasn't the violence that gnawed at him, it was Jake's twisted obsession with Joe.
Frank was determined to make Jake pay for his crimes: a lifetime behind bars, far from Joe was not a harsh enough punishment. He would seek justice for Joe to protect him, even if he had to plunge into the darkness himself. The brothers shared an unbreakable bond, and Frank would do anything he could to keep Joe safe, no matter what the price. He wouldn't fail him again. Frank shoved the bastards out of his mind and focused on Joe. He was his priority now.
Frank felt restless as he sat on the cold examination table with his leg raised and iced. The medical staff bustled around him, masks on and voices low. But nothing was said about Joe's condition. The lack of information ate at Frank. His brother was somewhere beyond those walls. Frank's will faltered, the impulse to storm out of his treatment room and into Joe's room was almost irresistible. He clenched his fists, nails digging into his palms. "Joe," he whispered, a prayer and a plea. Breathe in. Breathe out. He told himself as he took deep breaths, each one an anchor. For Joe, he mentally chanted. He needed to stay calm and not lose it because Joe needed him. The door stayed shut, a barrier between them. A silent vow: "I'll fight for you, Joe, I'll fight for you." And in that quiet room, Frank's love for his brother shone brighter than any restlessness.
As if things weren't bad enough, fatigue weighed him down, dragging him toward the edge of exhaustion and Frank felt a surge of depression start to creep up on him. His eyelids drooped, and he found himself dozing on the table, a reluctant capitulation to his tiredness. Suddenly, a primal urgency that defied sleep seized him. Frank's eyes flew open, and his chest tightened. Gasping, he sat up, the world spinning around him. His hand pressed against his chest, trying to ease the pain away. He knew exactly what that meant. "Joe" Fueled by adrenaline and desperation, Frank jumped off the examination table, ignoring the pain in his swollen knee and the calls from the nurses to come back.
Frank burst into Joe's examining room and gasped at the sight: his brother, was being restrained by two orderlies, while medical staff surrounded him with needles and monitors. Joe looked confused, panicked and terrified. His eyes were darting around frantically looking for an escape as he struggled to break free from the orderlies.
"Let my brother go!" Frank shouted, his anger boiling over. He felt a surge of fierce protectiveness for Joe, who had suffered so much. A doctor blocked his way, trying to keep him from the chaos.
"Calm down, sir," the doctor said, "we're just trying to help your brother."
"Well, look at him! Can't you see that he's terrified and you're not helping!" Frank snapped back, his voice cracking with frustration as he pointed towards Joe. He knew Joe was a trauma victim, haunted by pain and memories, but the doctor should have understood the situation. The room felt oppressive, the white walls choking him. He poured out his words, hoping the doctor would listen. He described Joe's injuries, the invisible wounds of PTSD, and the depression that was consuming him.
"Depression," Frank repeated, his voice shaking. "He's sinking in it." The doctor looked conflicted, torn between following procedures and showing compassion. But Frank didn't give up. Joe needed more than medical terms. He needed kindness and a way out of the darkness.
"Sir..."
"Frank." Frank interrupted the doctor.
"I'm sorry, Frank," the doctor said, "but we have to calm your brother down."
"Then let me do it," Frank insisted. His voice was firm. "I know how to calm him down." The room went silent, waiting for the doctor's decision. It was a choice between power and trust.
Without waiting for permission, Frank moved past the doctor and closer to Joe, holding his hands out so that Joe could see them. He had been Joe's support for so long, helping him to cope with nightmares and panic attacks. He hugged Joe and had whispered comforting words in the dark and held and comforted him through long and difficult nights.
"Frank… Let me go!" Joe shouted. His body thrashed, trying to break free from the orderlies and get away. They lost their grip on him and Joe took his chance. In his panic he kicked at them causing one orderly to fall and the other one to trip over him. Joe slid off the table, driven by desperation, his leg unable to support his weight and he fell down, pain shooting throughout his body. As he scurried into the corner his breathing was uneven, each breath he took was stabbing him in the chest, and blood was dripping down his back from where the wounds from the lashes had re-opened.
"Ahhh!" Joe cried his voice breaking, bouncing off the plain walls. "It hurts!" He twisted like an injured animal. "God…everything hurts!"
"JOE!" Frank yelled across the room, throwing a lifeline into the turmoil. He pushed the doctor behind him and knelt next to his brother, wrapping his arms around Joe, protecting him from the pain and fear. "Shh, little brother, I'm here." he said softly, his voice full of emotion.
"Frank… Don't let them touch me… Please don't let them…" Joe said, pleading with Frank as he tried to hide behind him. Frank could see the terror in his wide-open eyes.
Frank's arms squeezed Joe tighter, shielding him from the world as he curled into safety and security that his brother provided. "I won't," he swore, his voice strong. "You're safe now. No one's going to hurt you. I promise."
"I need everyone to clear the room," Dr. Bryce said firmly, entering the chaotic scene. The medical staff hesitated, torn between protocol and urgency.
The orderly that Joe had kicked, groaned and clutched his stomach. "That kid is out of control," he complained, but Dr. Bryce silenced him with a look.
"Frank… Don't let them touch me… Please don't let them…" Joe sobbed, clinging to his brother. Frank held him tight, a lifeline against the turmoil. "Shhh," he whispered soothingly. "I've got you, little brother. You're safe."
Frank looked up and saw Dr. Bryce clearing out the rest of the staff before approaching them with the nurse that Frank recognized from the hospital robbery.
"No, just leave him alone for now, he's in good hands," Dr. Bryce said to the other staff, his voice authoritative and concerned. "I need everyone to clear the room." As the room emptied, Dr. Bryce focused on the two brothers. He knelt on the floor next to Frank and spoke softly to Joe. "Joe, it's Dr. Bryce. You're safe." His voice and his eyes conveyed a sense of calm amidst the chaos. "Do you think you can let us help you back onto the examination table?"
Joe shivered, his face twisted in pain. He nodded, trusting Dr. Bryce's words. Together, Frank and the doctor helped Joe back up onto the examination table, where he still clung to Frank.
"Thank you," Joe whispered weakly. "I'm sorry."
Dr. Bryce shook his head, his eyes full of compassion and said. "No apologies needed, Joe. This is Nurse Delores; she's going to help me take care of you. Is that alright?"
Frank grimaced, the doctor noticing every detail as they settled Joe on the table. His swollen knee throbbed with every movement. But Frank stayed strong, his attention fixed on Joe.
"Frank can stay, right?" Joe asked nervously, gripping Frank's arm tightly.
"Of course, Joe." Dr. Bryce said, his gaze softening with compassion. "Frank stays. He'll sit next to you while I examine and treat your wounds." Delores quickly brought over a stool for Dr. Bryce, its metal legs making a scraping sound on the linoleum floor, the harsh noise causing Joe to flinch.
"See, I'm not going anywhere," Frank reassured Joe in a gentle voice. He tenderly pushed a strand of Joe's sweat dampened blond hair away from his eyes. Joe gave him a weary smile, his eyes heavy with exhaustion and still gripping his arm he leaned into him, closed his eyes and relaxed slightly. Frank's anger surged, seeing his little brother's bruised face and swollen lip. Frank took a deep breath, trying to calm himself. He resolved to be strong for Joe, if he needed to he would suppress his anger and fear and deal with his emotions later, once Joe had been taken care of. When he felt more composed, Frank looked at the doctor. "Dad called you, right?" He whispered, sounding vulnerable.
"He did," Dr. Bryce confirmed. "He told me that you were bringing Joe to the hospital."
"Did he mention what happened and Joe's injuries?"
"Yes," Dr. Bryce said softly to not disturb Joe. "We have to consider all the possibilities, including that Joe was assaulted. I asked everyone to leave the room to reduce his stress and to hopefully calm him down. Joe, we are going to be careful about how we treat you, which is why Delores is here with me." He indicated the experienced nurse, who smiled at Frank, reminding him of his aunt. He felt their compassion, and it was a ray of hope in this dark time.
"Frank."
Frank looked down and saw that Joe had opened his eyes and was looking up at him. "Is Callie okay?" he whispered.
"Yes, she's fine. She's safe."
"Good, that's good. I didn't want her to get hurt." Joe nodded. Then he paused and his black eye widened as tears streamed down his face. "Frank, there's something I have to tell you. You're not going to like it."
Frank had a sinking feeling that he knew what Joe was about to say, and he prepared himself to listen, knowing that Joe needed to get it out. He glanced from Joe to Dr. Bryce and Delores. He spoke firmly but politely to them, "Could you please give us some privacy?"
"Of course, Frank." The doctor agreed and the nurse nodded. They moved to the other side of the room where they could still monitor both of the brothers, but it gave them the illusion that they were leaving them alone.
Frank kept stroking his brother's hair. "Go ahead, little brother," he said steadily, though he felt sick inside.
"I-I tried to do something stupid...twice. I was tempted by the darkness...and…I almost gave in. I'm sorry, please don't be angry," Joe said, choking on a sob. "I just wanted the pain to end...I think I have depression...I feel trapped and hopeless. I don't want to end up like Granddad..."
Frank looked with tearful eyes at his brother. His lower lip trembled as tears rolled down his face. "Listen to me carefully, little brother. I'm not mad at you, I'm only worried. I completely understand how you feel because I'm struggling with it too, and so is Dad. He was on the verge of it once as well. Remember he was a teenager when he found Granddad and he kept it bottled up inside of him for years until he opened up about it to us. He was still depressed when he met and married Mom, but she helped him through that dark time. Granddad wouldn't let anyone help him, so he fought it alone and lost. You're not alone, Joe. You have family and friends who love you and will support you through this. I'm grateful I have them too. And Callie..." Frank's voice softened with a hint of awe. "She's my anchor, Joe. My light in the darkness. I can't imagine my life without her in it. Vanessa is a good person. We've become closer and I think of her as a friend. I think that she'll be good for you, Joe, she really cares about you."
"I care about her too, Frank, but I don't want her to see me like this. She deserves better and should be with someone who's not weak," Joe said softly, his eyes glistening with tears. "What if I can't fight it, Frank? I'm not as strong as you and Dad. It's just too hard and I'm scared."
"Listen to me little brother. You're not weak. You're one of the strongest people that I know! You're brave and strong and Vanessa knows that. She was so worried about you when you and Callie were taken. She was the one who helped me to find the cabin where Ryan was keeping you and Callie prisoner." Frank said firmly.
"Vanessa deserves better than me...I can't fight this depression...it's too hard." Joe said shaking his head.
"Joe, I want you to listen very carefully to me. This is what Dad told me, and now I'm telling you: Depression is a tough opponent, but you know how to fight. Remember all of the cases that we've solved together, facing down criminals who seemed invincible? You never backed down. You stood firm. This battle is the same. Think of it like this, depression is the enemy, ruthless and clever. But you? You're smart and strong— you are a warrior with a heart that won't give up. You've always been my brave little brother who can kick ass and will stand up for others. All you need to do is stand up for yourself this time. Fight and keep fighting this no matter how hard it gets. You will make it through. I promise. Giving up would be too easy, and that's not you, you don't take shortcuts."
"Okay, Frank, I'll try. I'm tired," Joe's voice faded as his eyelids drooped, and he slowly succumbed to the fatigue, leaning heavily on his brother.
"It's okay, Joe, just rest," Frank said as he rubbed Joe's arm. His touch, soft as a feather, lulled Joe to sleep. The room was still, holding their shared pain.
Frank's voice, hoarse and fragile, shattered the silence. "Okay, Dr. Bryce."
The doctor and nurse came back over, their presence a support. Dr. Bryce's eyes showed empathy, a silent recognition of the burden they all bore.
"Frank," he said, "once we've taken care of Joe, there's a room ready for him. Chief Collig is setting up security, and Dr. Reese is on standby. We have a room for you as well. You also need care, so let me check on you personally, then rest. Joe will be safe."
Frank's determination faltered. He'd fought many battles before — against violence, against lies — but this battle raged in their hearts, and felt impossible. "I won't resist," he whispered. For Joe's sake, for their shared survival, he'd give in to the peaceful escape of sleep. And as the room enveloped them, Frank wondered if healing could be found in the gaps between breaths, in the fragile trust they placed in each other.
FJFJFJFJFJF
The next morning Dr. Bryce entered the room and greeted him warmly and politely. "Good morning, Frank. How are you feeling?" He saw that his patient was awake but still groggy from the relaxant he had been given the night before. He nodded at Fenton, who was sitting by his son's bed in a chair.
Frank replied with a tired and raspy voice. "Tired." He attempted to sit up a bit more in the bed but gave up and lay back down.
"That's normal. What we gave you to help you rest is still wearing off. Do you have any pain in your chest or head?" Dr. Bryce asked.
Frank shook his head. "No."
"How about the pain you had in your back?"
"It's gone. I haven't felt any pain since I shared Joe's pain…" Frank's voice faded. He looked at his father, fighting back tears.
"So, it seems that Frank's back pain was actually what Joe felt when Ryan Hayden was beating him," Fenton said. He thought about the bruises on Joe's torso and his back, which had welts and ripped skin from Ryan's assault. He felt a surge of anger at the pain that man had caused his son. He wished the man would rot in hell with his brother, Jack Hayden.
"As impossible as that sounds, I would have to agree with you," the doctor said.
Dr. Bryce's examination of Joe had brought mixed feelings of relief and concern. He had found no drug traces in Joe's system, which was a blessing, but the skin and muscles in Joe's back showed signs of severe trauma. The doctor's touch was soothing, easing the healing wounds, and the stiffness and suffering of Joe's body. Joe had some swelling in his left leg but the doctor was confident that it would go down in a few days and that the muscles hadn't been re-injured, just over-used.
After Dr. Bryce had finished updating them on Joe's condition, Frank had to ask a difficult question that had been bothering him every since his encounter with the crazy nurse, had Joe endured more than physical abuse? Both Fenton and Frank waited anxiously for Dr. Bryce's answer, and Fenton felt his heart tighten. The answer was difficult yet comforting "The bruises on his torso came from repeated punches and strikes, probably with fists and possibly a belt. There was no physical evidence of sexual assault, but we will have to wait until he wakes up to talk to him about it before we can say for sure."
"Thank you, doctor," Fenton said softly, his face showing his gratitude. Frank nodded wordlessly, too emotional to speak; tears running down his face.
Dr. Bryce understood their bond. "I have to continue my morning rounds, Frank. I'll let you and your father talk in peace. Take care." He left the room, which became a quiet place for hope and support.
As Dr. Bryce left, Fenton spoke to his son in a gentle but serious voice. "That's good news about Joe," he said. "But there's more things that you should know Frank."
"What?" Frank asked, looking at his father with curiosity.
"I spoke with the McNeely's and little Trevor is doing well. He's been asking his parents about you and Joe quite a bit. We've reassured him that Joe and Callie have been found and that all of you are safe and sound, and that doctors working diligently to make you and Joe feel better. This seemed to comfort him, and he even mentioned that he's making 'get well' cards for you." Fenton smiled, "I thought that was very sweet."
Frank leaned back into the pillows and smiled, "I'm glad Trevor is doing okay."
"I've also spoken with Chief Collig about allowing Pete to retain his position at the shooting range. He agreed, on the condition that Pete undergoes additional training on protocol and gun safety. He's also looking about adding more staff and security at the range, because Jake/Henry stealing your gun probably wouldn't have happened it someone else had been there to assist when the argument that distracted Pete had broken out. Indeed, your mother and I, in collaboration with Chief Collig, are establishing a fund to assist the McNeely's until they regain their financial footing. This is particularly important with the arrival of their new baby. We've also set up a college fund for both Trevor and the new little one. The McNeely's plan to spend some time with Lindsey's family in Florida and her parents are planning a trip to see Mickey hoping that it might help the little boy move past the incident at the Bayport Pier."
"That's good news." Frank nodded.
"I also spoke with our lawyer Carl Sims this morning. He told me that the judge dismissed all of the charges against you after finding out who really killed Jack Hayden. The enhanced footage of you and Vanessa showing Jake/Henry taking your gun was the evidence that we needed. The recordings, the photos, the GPS location, and the statements from you and your friends also helped a lot. You were very clever to think of that, it helped us find and rescue Joe and Callie in time."
"That's even better news," Frank said, "I'm still trying to wrap my head around everything," He shook his head and added, "That… that little maniac Henry or Jake or whatever he's calling himself now orchestrated the whole thing. He murdered his father and pinned it on me to trick his uncle into seeking revenge to kill me. All because of his sick obsession with Joe. He thinks that Joe belongs to him. Dad, he also admitted that he planted Jack's lighter and the cocaine in the car with the college students to keep the police after Ryan."
Fenton sat back, frowning. "I agree. Jake might be smart, like his father and uncle, but smuggling cocaine into a crime scene? It's hard to believe that he would have thought of that."
Frank looked out the window, where the sunbeams cast long streaks on the floor and then said softly. "Dad, what if there's another person involved? Someone who orchestrated everything from behind the scenes. Someone who knew how to exploit the people and the situation."
Fenton's eyes narrowed. "A partner in crime?"
"Exactly." Frank's mind raced, connecting the dots of the puzzle. "Jake had a reason, but he lacked the skill. We saw that when he went after Phil and Seth, but what if he had a partner? Someone who had the contacts and who could help Jake plant cocaine in that car without being noticed."
Fenton leaned forward, his voice low. "Someone close to Jake, maybe?"
Frank nodded. "Maybe Trevor's smoky monster is the friend who helped Jake abduct Joe and Callie. Jake said he wanted to take Joe's girlfriend, so his friend took Vanessa to protect Joe. But he snatched Callie by mistake. Who is this friend of Jake's? Could it be Daniel Bartend?"
"No, it wasn't Bartend," Fenton said.
"How can you be sure?"
"When they searched the property, they found the bodies of Daniel Bartend and the Linksy's in a shallow grave behind the cabin. They had all died from a gunshot wound to the head, about a week ago. That ruled out Bartend as a suspect in the kidnapping of Joe and Callie on Friday night."
"Then who was it?" Frank asked, looking intently at Fenton. He felt a sudden wave of fatigue wash over him and he yawned. "And why? We have to dig deeper. Find out who else was behind this twisted game. Someone who could pull the strings from the shadows."
Fenton put his hand on Frank's shoulder and squeezed gently. "We'll solve this mystery, son. Every piece of it," he promised.
"Where is Jake by the way?" Frank asked,
"According to Chief Collig, Jake was treated for the broken nose that he got from fighting with Joe. He was then sent to Cobell Asylum in New York, where they keep the criminally insane, because he is claiming temporary insanity. His lawyer is using the abuse from his father and uncle as the basis of the claim. The AD is waiting for him to be declared 'sane' enough by the asylum board before pressing charges. He doesn't want him to escape justice with a 'temporary insanity' defense." Fenton answered.
"He had better stay far away from Joe." Frank fumed.
"Don't worry about that. Joe will be well protected. I'll make sure of that." Fenton said firmly.
Frank nodded. He trusted his father to take measures to ensure Joe's safety. He soon became quiet and thoughtful. After a while, he lifted his head and looked at his father with troubled eyes and said. "I talked to Mrs. Cohen yesterday. She phoned the house to talk to me while you and Mom were visiting the Garretts and invited Chet, Biff, and I to her house because she wanted to tell me something. She said that she and Mr. Cohen were leaving Bayport to go and live near Seth's family. They're all still heartbroken over losing Phil and Seth. She gave me Phil's computer and some of his photos. Dad, I appreciate that you surprised Joe and me with the news of the new agency, but why didn't you tell us about this part of HC Cyber Software and Phil's role in it?"
"I knew that the Cohens were moving away from Bayport. Phil's death was a terrible tragedy. I didn't tell you about HC Cyber because you and Joe had enough to deal with. I was going to tell you boys eventually, but I wasn't sure if the deal would work out, especially after what happened to your brother." Fenton said with a sigh.
Frank nodded. "I understand," he said. Then he asked, "Dad, have you seen Joe this morning?"
"No, I haven't. Your mother and aunt have been with him most of the time."
"Why not, Dad?"
"Joe and I had a big fight the last time we were together and it triggered a panic attack for him." Fenton looked away, his eyes filled with pain. Frank could see how much the constant arguments and Joe's resentment had affected him. "I'm afraid that he'll get worse if he sees me when he wakes up. I don't want to cause him more pain or trigger another anxiety attack."
Frank's heart ached for his father. He sighed and said, "Dad, I know that Joe has been difficult and angry with you, but you can't give up on him. If you distance yourself from him, it will only make it harder to heal the rift between the two of you. I know that deep down Joe loves you and he needs you more than you realize. Dad, go sit with him. Show him you're there for him."
Fenton wiped the tears from his eyes and sighed heavily. "You're right. I have to keep trying to make things right with Joe. I love you boys more than anything."
"Dad, I have another question."
"What's that?"
"Who is going into the fifth office?"
Fenton smiled. "That's a secret for now. But you and Joe will find out soon enough." He got up and squeezed his son's shoulder gently. "I'm going to see your mother and find out how your brother is doing. In the meantime, I want you both to get some rest." He saw Frank's eyelids drooping, overcome by fatigue. Frank agreed and fell asleep.
FJFJFJFJFJF
By noon, Frank felt rested, the sedative administered by the doctor having finally worn off. He was sitting up in bed and enjoying the lunch his mother had brought him from the hospital lounge. Aunt Gertrude had paid a visit to her nephews, overjoyed to see them both safe, sound, and on the path to recovery. Laura, looking at her eldest son's injuries, felt a surge of anger towards Ryan and Jake (Henry) Hayden. However, she was relieved to learn that the murder charges against Frank had been dropped. The truth had finally emerged, Jake (Henry) Hayden was the one who had murdered his father, Jack Hayden.
Laura felt sick thinking about the lunatic who had framed Frank for his father's murder. He had tried to kill Frank three times, but it wasn't just the violence he inflicted on her eldest son. It was Jake's twisted obsession with her youngest. Oh, the horrible things Joe endured. She had felt a surge of relief as Fenton shared the doctor's report with her. The doctor had addressed Joe's scars, stiffness, and pain. Joe's left leg had some swelling, but it should subside in a few days. His torso had bruises and cracked ribs from multiple punches, but the doctors had not found any evidence of sexual assault. Laura had faith that her husband would track down the nurse who had harmed Joe and make her face justice. She knew that Joe still had a long way to go in his recovery, and she would stand by him throughout. Laura embraced and kissed Frank after he ate his lunch, expressing her love for him and assuring him that he was alright. Then she went to see how Joe was doing.
Biff, Tony, and Chet were happy to see Frank and Joe were both alive and well. They had rushed to the hospital as soon as they were allowed. They found out that Chief Collig had assigned a guard to Joe's room and that only a few people could visit him. Luckily, they were on the approved visitors list. They greeted Officer Con Riley, who was guarding Joe's door. He smiled and let them in. They saw Laura sitting next to Joe's bed, holding his hand. Joe was laying on his side and sleeping soundly because of the medication that the doctor had given him. Laura welcomed them and thanked them for their bravery in rescuing her sons. They sat with Joe for a while, hoping that he would wake up soon.
Frank was glad to see Biff, Tony, and Chet, who popped in to check on him after visiting Joe. He was feeling much better after the ordeal that he had endured. He told them how he and Joe were doing and how grateful he was for their help in stopping Ryan Hayden. The boys were happy to hear that Frank had been cleared of the murder charge and that Jake was being sent to Cobell Asylum.
Wanting to talk about something else, Frank inquired about Biff's head and if he was alright. Biff reassured him that a doctor had examined him the night before and confirmed that he hadn't suffered a concussion from the blow that he had received. Frank shared his desire to visit Joe with his friends, but explained that the doctor advised him to rest and that he could see Joe the next day. As Frank touched his chest, he felt a serene sensation, and he smiled knowing that Joe was also calm and peaceful.
After Biff, Tony, and Chet left Frank lay in his bed, looking at the window and lost in his thoughts. A soft knock on the door snapped him out of his wool-gathering. Looking up he saw his beautiful fiancée at the doorway.
"Callie," he greeted her with a smile.
"Hi honey, I'm sorry you looked deep in thought, did I disturb you?" She said softly as she walked into the room.
"No, I'm happy to see your beautiful face. How are you?" He asked with concern.
"I'm fine. I stayed in my apartment at first," Callie said. "But the loneliness and quiet was unbearable. So, I went to my parents' house for the night. I still shiver when I think of the bomb that Ryan strapped on me. I'm just thankful that it's all over." Callie approached Frank and kissed his cheek. "That's from my mom, and this is a hug from my dad. They wanted me to thank you for saving my life yesterday. They also said that they're honored to have you as a son-in-law." She spoke with tears of joy.
"I'm glad that you're safe with them. I was terrified of how your parents would react if I had failed. I don't know how to live without you." Frank said, holding back tears. "You are my everything."
"We have each other now, that's what matters. I love you so much. Thank you for saving my life." Callie leaned over and gave him a passionate kiss.
"Thank you for saving mine," Frank said returning the kiss.
"How are you feeling?" Callie asked with concern, squeezing his hand.
"I'm okay, I guess. Dr. Bryce told me to rest. I want to see Joe, but he's sleeping and that's good for his recovery. I'll have to wait until tomorrow." Frank sounded resigned as he recounted his morning in the examination room. He told Callie everything from the start to the finish, including his father's arrival and the news that he was cleared of murder. He also mentioned that Jake had been sent to Cobell Asylum in New York, a facility for mentally ill criminals.
"I'm glad Joe is safe and on the road to recovery, and I'm glad Jake is where he belongs," Callie agreed. "Look, I should go now. Joe is resting and you should too." She kissed him goodbye and then left him alone with his thoughts.
FJFJFJFJFJF
"Hello, Frank,"
Frank looked up at hearing his name and saw his therapist walk into the room with a smile on her face.
"Hi, Dr. Reese." He greeted her. "I had a feeling that I'd be seeing you at some point."
"You're very perceptive," she replied as she pulled a chair next to his bed and sat down. "We have much to talk about."
"I take it that Dad has brought you up to speed on everything that has happened with me and Joe over the last few days?"
"He did. In fact, I just came from a meeting with your parents." She replied.
Frank looked at his therapist and asked in a steady voice, "So what's the plan? What happens with Joe after this? I know that Dad contacted you when Joe tried to take his life at Bayport Pier Friday night. You were going to make arrangements for Joe to go to a treatment facility."
"That's right he did."
"I assume that my parents informed you that we are not willing to send Joe to Bellevue. There are too many bad memories associated with that place. I think that it would be fatal for Joe and it wouldn't be good for me either."
"And I agree." Dr. Reese said. "That was a rash decision that your parents made out of fear and desperation to help save Joe's life. It would not have been my recommendation, Bellevue is not the place for Joe."
"So, what do we do next?" Frank asked.
"There is a place that I think would be beneficial for Joe. I've talked it over with your parents and they feel comfortable about it, but they also wanted me to discuss it with you."
"What is it?"
"Second Chances is a specialized rehab center that provides a lifeline for teens grappling with self-harm and suicidal tendencies. They delve into the root causes of maladaptive and high-risk behaviors, addressing issues like depression, anxiety, eating disorders, trauma, dual diagnosis, and substance abuse. This isn't a typical rehab center aimed at teens. It offers a blend of group, individual and family therapy. They also have engaging group activities, outdoor experiences, and the medical staff is renowned for their exceptional training. They are committed to treating Joe's physical injuries, particularly his back and leg, throughout his recovery journey."
"Where is it?" He inquired, a hint of hesitation in his voice. His stomach twisted in knots of uncertainty.
Dr. Reese interlaced her fingers and leaned forward, ready to address his concerns. "It's nestled in the serene surroundings of Cedar Lake, Maine."
Frank shook his head, a frown etched on his face. "You're suggesting we send him four hundred miles away to an unfamiliar place, surrounded by strangers?"
"I understand your apprehension about separating from Joe…"
"You think?" Frank cut her off, his tone sharp. "After the hellish ordeal Joe has endured recently, how can we, how can I, entrust his care to strangers?"
"Joe won't be alone. I'll be there with him," Dr. Reese countered. "I've collaborated with patients at Second Chances before and have witnessed remarkable transformations. I'm convinced that it's the ideal place for him. Your parents concur. We all want what's best for Joe, don't we?"
Frank merely nodded, his gaze fixed on her. Dr. Reese continued, "Frank, let's not overlook your own recovery. You've made significant strides in dealing with your depression, but there are areas that we still need to address. The bond that you share with Joe is extraordinary. However, I believe that you both have developed separation anxiety. We need to help you reach a point where it's okay for both you and Joe to pursue separate activities. It's perfectly fine for you to solve mysteries together, that's your shared passion. But it's also okay for you to take separate vacations and cultivate individual interests. You're still planning on getting married, right?"
"Yes, Callie and I are still on track to get married, but only after we complete college."
"So, Princeton, that's still on the cards?"
Frank sat up, propping himself against his pillows. He rubbed his weary eyes. "I don't know. I'm not even remotely prepared for that, and thinking about that with the murder charge hanging over my head just felt like I was setting myself up for disappointment. Besides, how can I even think about going there with Joe in his current state?"
"I would hate for you to forfeit that opportunity," Dr. Reese replied. "Princeton is a prestigious institution, and your early acceptance is a privilege that very few attain. You could even consider online classes, if you don't want to move to campus right away."
"I can't focus on Princeton," Frank said, shaking his head. "I can't concentrate on school knowing that Joe would be so far away. I need to be close to him, but people just don't seem to grasp that. Have you told Joe about Second Chances yet?"
"Not yet," Dr. Reese admitted. "Your parents thought it best to discuss it with you first."
"Well, I can assure you he's going to be upset," Frank said, rubbing his chest. "Especially knowing he'll be there alone and without his family. I assume you and my parents have already set things in motion?"
"Yes, we have."
"Then it's best if I break the news to Joe. Otherwise, he's going to have a major meltdown."
FJFJFJFJFJF
9pm, that evening
Officer Con Riley was standing outside of Joe's hospital room guarding the door. He felt no pity for the Hayden's, who had inflicted so much pain on Frank, Joe and their family and friends. They had suffered more than anyone deserved. He did not mourn Ryan or Jack Hayden's death. He did not care that their killer was Jack Hayden's son. He was happy that Frank was cleared of the murder charge and that Jake was locked up in Cobell Asylum, a place for the criminally insane. He thought about Carolyn Matthews, the twisted nurse. He vowed to help to find her and make her pay for what she had done to Joe. He trusted Fenton Hardy, the ace detective, to bring her to justice.
He had volunteered to guard Joe in the hospital when he learned that Chief Collig was organizing it. He had been friends with the Hardy's for years and he knew that Frank and Joe were good kids who wanted to follow in their father's footsteps. He swore to protect Joe with everything he had.
He thought back to the conversation that he had had earlier with Fenton. "You know, I thought I had seen it all in twenty years of doing this job, until this case with Frank and Joe and the Hayden nightmare. This has been one of the toughest and most tragic cases I've ever worked on. Good friends hurt and lives lost. I've had enough. I love being a cop. It's been my whole life. The Chief suggested I take some time off, and I think that I'm going to do that. In fact, I think it's time to retire."
Con sighed heavily as he rubbed his tired eyes, recalling Fenton Hardy's words, "I know we had some problems at the start of this case because of what happened with Joe. But all of that has changed. You saved Joe's life, and that makes you family. I'd hate to see you go. I know the boys will too. Bayport PD won't be the same without you; you are a damn good officer. I understand your reasons though." Fenton had said clearing his throat, Con Riley smiled he was looking forward to his new adventure as a partner in the Hardy and Sons' Detective Agency, having finally found his motivation.
"Excuse me, Officer," a voice said, interrupting Con's thoughts. He quickly dismissed them and looked up to see a tall, beautiful blonde girl standing in front of him.
"Yes, young lady, what can I do for you?"
"I was wondering if I could go in and see Joe?" she asked, eager to see the man she loved.
"And you are?"
"Vanessa Bender. Joe's girlfriend."
"Oh, I remember you from yesterday. I heard you were the one who whacked Jake with that bat."
"I did."
"Vanessa, it's 9pm which means that visiting hours will be over soon. So, you may have to wait until tomorrow to see him."
"It'll just be for a minute, please? I just need to see him and make sure that he's OK."
"Well, only a few people are allowed to visit him. His parents were here, but they just left to get something to eat. Let me check the list to see if your names is on it." Con looked at the clipboard with the names of people authorized to see Joe. "Vanessa Bender. Yep, you're on the list."
"Thank you, Officer." Vanessa replied. "It'll just be a minute. I promise."
She entered the room and saw him lying on the bed. She could see that he was asleep. His eyes were closed, but she could see his chest rising and falling and could hear his steady breathing. She sat down beside his bed and gently ran her fingers through his hair as she scanned his bruised and battered face, cursing the people who had hurt him.
"Hey Joe, I'm here," Vanessa said softly, holding back tears. She placed her hand in his and gave it a gentle squeeze, hoping for a response, but his hand remained limp. "I'm so sorry that you're hurt. Just know I'm going to be with you every step of the way. I know that we just started dating but I told Officer Riley that I was your girlfriend. I feel that I am. I want you to be my boyfriend. I love you, Joe Hardy." She stood up and planted a kiss on his forehead, "I'm going to go and let you rest. I'll be back tomorrow."
FJFJFJFJFJF
Officer Jason Riggs relieved Officer Riley for the night shift to guard Joe's room. Con had left his fellow officer with specific orders that under no circumstances was he to leave his post or allow anyone in that wasn't on the approved list, staff included. His priority was to keep Joe safe. As Officer Riggs settled at his post, he glanced at his watch. It was 10:30 p.m. and was well past visiting hours at the hospital. As patients slept peacefully in their beds, the hallways were quiet except for nurses and doctors doing their rounds and tending to their patients' needs. He could see a maintenance worker mopping the floor near the nurses' station but didn't pay attention to him.
Riggs yawned. He felt hungry, tired and eager to go home. But he had to follow Officer Riley's orders. He could not leave his post. His priority was to protect Joe. And that's what he would do.
'"Would you like some coffee, Officer?"
Riggs raised his head and noticed the maintenance man holding out a cup of coffee. He had set aside his mop and was grinning. "I appreciate the gesture, sir, but I better not."
"Oh, come on. You look like you're about ready to doze off. You could probably use a little pick-me-up."
"Well, thank you kindly." The officer said, taking the hot drink. The maintenance man nodded and continued on with his mopping. Riggs took a few sips from the cup. He had to admit it felt good going down. It was the boost that he needed. He had consumed half of the coffee when he started feeling dizzy and unsteady. Then, suddenly, he fell to the floor and the world went dark.
The maintenance man looked over at the officer laying unconscious on the floor. He smiled with malice in his eyes. He quickly put his mop back in the bucket and walked over to Joe's room, checking up and down the hallways before sneaking inside.
Joe woke up with a start, his blue eyes widened in shock when he saw a fair-haired man standing beside him. Joe's eyes were wide with fear. He gasped for air, but the man's gloved hand quickly covered his mouth and smothered his scream. "Don't make a sound." The man hissed as he took a photo of Joe with his phone and slipped it back into the pocket of his blue scrub top.
He gazed at Joe with desire. "Picasso was right. You have transformed from a little cherubic innocent into a stunning beauty. Collectors will bid a fortune for you." He caressed Joe's hair, "You, dear boy, are a delicacy, blond, blue-eyed and beautiful. You don't realize how valuable you are. I'm not supposed to touch the merchandise if I can't afford it, but I do enjoy samples. Don't tell the boss, this will be our secret."
Joe continued gasping for breath as he froze in panic, the maintenance man leaned over and kissed him on the lips. Then out of nowhere flashes of a man's hand with a red ring on his finger began caressing his leg and inside his pants as the man's face began to crystallize in Joe's head... You and I are going to play a special game, Joey... You're my special boy... it hurts! It hurts Stop...Stop! The maintenance man smiled and ran out of the room after he was done with Joe.
Frank had dozed off after his father left. Suddenly, he woke up with a jolt, feeling a tightness and panic in his chest. He gasped for air and sat up, feeling dizzy. He put his hand on his chest, trying to ease the pain. He knew what it meant. "Joe!"
At the same time, he heard an urgent call over the intercom and saw several medical personnel running past his door. Then he heard another call for security to go to the floor where Joe was staying. Frank was overcome by fear and urgency. Something was wrong with Joe; he felt it deep in his soul. He quickly jumped out of bed, ignoring the pain in his swollen knee, and ran towards Joe's room. He could see that something had happened and it seemed like time had slowed; the floor was buzzing with activity, medical staff bustling about. As Frank approached the nurses' station, he saw two nurses helping Officer Riggs onto a stretcher. Riggs looked dazed and held his head in his hands. Other officers were questioning the medical staff.
Chief Collig was questioning Riggs about what happened, while Con stood beside him. "I don't know what happened. The custodian who was mopping the floor gave me a cup of coffee because he said that I looked like I needed it. After a few sips I began to feel dizzy and then I must have blacked out. I know that I should have refused it, but I was so tired."
"What did the maintenance man look like?" Chief Collig asked.
"Fair-haired, middle-aged, blue scrubs."
"Riley, search the hospital from top to bottom... question the staff, see if anyone matches the man's description. Also, see if we can get anything from the security cameras." Frank heard Chief Collig barking out orders as he ran past what was happening in the hall and into Joe's room. He saw his parents and Dr. Bryce gathered around Joe's bed. His mother was crying and his father's face was tense. Their eyes were fixed on Joe, who was curled into a tight ball, breathing steadily but staring blankly at the wall. Frank's heart sank when he saw little brother's condition. His mother ran up to him with urgency and tears. "Please tell me you can feel him in your heart?"
Frank rubbed his chest and a wave of panic washed over him; he had lost the connection with his brother. He looked at his parents with tears in his eyes and asked in a trembling voice, "No-no, why can't I feel Joe?" His mother gasped and burst into tears. His father tried to explain what had happened.
"One of the nurses found Officer Riggs unconscious on the floor and called for help right away. When we got here, your brother was in a catatonic state. We don't know what happened to cause it." Fenton said, holding his sobbing wife.
"Joe has a steady pulse and normal breathing, but he's not responding to anything," Dr Bryce said. "It's as if he has retreated into his mind to protect himself from something."
"Frank, please, talk to your brother...try to get him to respond...please," Laura begged.
Everyone moved aside to let Frank approach Joe.
"Hey, little brother, I'm right here," Frank said in a soothing voice, brushing a strand of blond hair out of Joe's eyes. Tears ran down his face and his chin began to tremble. He rubbed his chest vigorously as he spoke. "I don't know why I can't feel our connection," he said, "Please, don't leave me. I need you. We are a team. Please, don't go. I love you."
Then Joe suddenly started to cry out, "Daddy-Daddy find-me! It hurts! It hurts! I'm sorry…I'm bad…. I'll be good… I'll be good…" But his eyes remained blank even though tears were leaking from his eyes. Frank and his parents exchanged looks with the doctor and held their breath.
"Joe, I'm here," Fenton replied, in a desperate attempt to reach his son. "You're safe. Open your eyes...tell me who's hurting you...I'll make them stop. Your mother and brother are here, and so is Dr Bryce."
Joe called out again, "Daddy-Daddy, find me! It hurts! It hurts! I'm sorry…I'm bad…. I'll be good… I'll be good…please don't send me away." but his eyes still remained blank. He stopped crying after a while. They tried every possible way to get Joe to snap out of his dissociative state for the next few minutes, but Joe remained catatonic. They didn't know what to do.
The next morning, the search for the mysterious maintenance man was still ongoing. Surveillance footage was obtained of the "fair-haired, middle-aged, blue scrubs" maintenance man that Officer Riggs had described as the one who gave him the cup of coffee, but the man had carefully kept his face turned away from the hospital's cameras. Officer Riley and his fellow officers questioned the medical staff, but so far no one had recognized the man. A roofie had been found in the remainder of the coffee that Officer Riggs had been given. The officer had a headache from the effects, but he was examined by the medical staff and would be fine. He was admitted for observation and would be released the next day.
Dr. Reese met with Fenton, Laura, and Frank to discuss Joe's condition. Dr. Reese had been informed about the incident by hospital staff and had examined Joe when she arrived.
"I think that Joe might have some repressed memories that are resurfacing," she said.
"Is it possible that I lost the connection with Joe because he is trying to contact Dad?" Frank asked.
"That could be the case," she replied.
"What's the next step, Dr. Reese? How can we help my son?" Laura asked, wiping away her tears.
"Laura, you're aware that we're preparing to send Joe to Second Chances. The rehab center will provide him with the best care he needs."
"I'm going with Joe," Frank insisted.
"What about Princeton, Frank?" Fenton asked.
"I don't care about Princeton, Dad! Joe matters more to me!" Frank retorted. "I'll apply to see if I can defer my acceptance due to a family emergency."
"Frank!" Laura exclaimed.
Frank rubbed his chest softly and ran a hand through his hair. "I'm sorry, Mom, Dad. I don't mean to be disrespectful to you both," he apologized with a heavy sigh. "It's just a lot to take in. I want to help my little brother so much...I don't want to lose him," he said, blinking back tears. He took a moment to collect himself and cleared his throat. He began again, "Joe needs us now more than ever." He placed a hand on his chest and addressed Fenton. "Dad, it's not me this time. It's you he's looking for. I have a feeling you are the key to unlocking him from wherever he is in his mind. To find out the reason he is in this state, we have to get him to Second Chances and we have to be there for him."
Laura wiped the tears from her eyes with a tissue. She sniffed back a sob. "Well, if you're going, then I'm going too. There's no way I'm going to be that far away from both of my sons. And Frank is right, Fenton. Joe needs his family now more than ever." She wrapped her hand around her husband's hand and gave it a light squeeze. "Fenton?"
Fenton suddenly felt all eyes on him, waiting for his answer. He had felt a surge of emotion when he heard Joe's voice. He longed to see his son healthy and happy and to protect him from harm. If he was the key to bringing Joe back, he had a feeling this was going to be the biggest case he ever had to solve. But he had no choice, he had to do it. Joe's life was at stake. He leaned forward and spoke with determination. "That's our plan, then. We're moving to Cedar Lake Maine. We'll bring Joe to Second Chances."
FJFJFJFJFJF
"Sam, can you handle the cases we currently have here while we are in Cedar Lake?" Fenton asked. He was sitting at his desk with Sam Radley in the new offices getting things organized for the move to Cedar Lake. He had briefed his partner on the incident with the maintenance man, Officer Riggs, and their decision to take Joe to Second Chances. Frank had called Callie and their friends to inform them of what was happening. After making the calls he went back to sit with Joe. Laura had gone home to pack and prepare for the move. She told Aunt Gertrude about their temporary relocation to Cedar Lake to support Joe during his recovery. Gertrude offered prayers and comfort to her nephews. She offered to stay in Bayport and watch over the house and visit them occasionally.
"Sure thing, Fenton," Sam agreed. "I still can't believe everything that has happened."
"Me neither." Fenton replied. He huffed and sat back in his chair, rubbing his tired eyes. "Now I just have to find a house for us to rent, preferably close to Joe."
"That won't be an issue." Sam said.
"How's that?"
"You can stay at my house, its big enough for the whole family."
"Sam, we couldn't impose like that."
Sam put down the file and looked at his friend. "Fenton, I'm a bachelor. I live alone in my apartment here. I'm here most of the time. I only go there to get away and to fish. It's right on the lake, it has four bedrooms, a full kitchen, and it's fully furnished. There's a market not too far, so you guys can rest and have meals together. You guys are my family, let me do this for you. You're going to need it because all your focus will be on taking care of Joe."
"Thank you, Sam," Fenton said gratefully, touched by his friend's generosity.
"Don't mention it. I'll just give Ethel a call and let her know that you're coming."
"Ethel? Who's that?" Fenton asked curiously, raising an eyebrow.
Sam's face turned red, and he answered shyly, "You'll meet her when you get to Cedar Lake."
To be continued in...Second Chances. Hope to see you there it's going to be a bumpy ride!
FJFJFJFJFJF
Writer's Note:
Here is the conclusion of A Brother's Revenge I just wanted to thank everyone who's stuck by me through this story. It took a lot longer for me to write than I had planned but real life had another plan. thank you for your wonderful reviews, favorites, following, or just reading. I'm working on the fourth installment, and I have a fifth one planned which will be the last story of my Pressure Series.
The fourth one is titled... Second Chances. I have a few chapters written so far as soon as they go through the editing stage I will post them.