Wednesday May 30th, 2018
New York City, NY
"Jake!" Kim called, settling in with her computer. "Are you coming?"
He walked into the room a moment later.
"I'm coming," he said. "But what are we even doing?"
"Sit," Kim answered, patting the couch next to her. "And text Tommy for me."
"About?" Jake asked, taking a seat.
"Just tell him to answer the video call I'm about to make," she said.
Jake shrugged and pulled out his phone.
Tommy, Kim needs you to answer when she video calls you.
There was barely a pause before Jake got an answer. Kim had opened her laptop and was setting it up on the coffee table in front of them.
Tommy: Why? What's up? I'm working on grading
Jake: I don't know. Hold on.
"Kim, he wants to know why," Jake said. "He's busy with school stuff."
"Because I asked," she said. "It's important."
Jake sighed.
Jake: She says it's important.
Tommy: Alright. fine. You don't need Kat, right? She's not home.
Jake: I don't think so?
Kim was placing the call now as Jake looked back up.
"Kim, did you need Kat, too?" he asked.
"What?" she frowned, looking up as the call started ringing. "What do you mean? Is Tommy not planning on inviting his wife to talk to us? Kat's a friend, too. Why wouldn't I want her involved? He shouldn't leave her out just because he's busy and doesn't want to go get her! I'll just text her myself—"
"Kim," Tommy interrupted, having answered the call.
Jake was shaking his head. He already knew the answer but Kim hadn't given him a chance to explain.
"Tommy, why haven't you gotten Kat?" Kim demanded, abandoning her phone. "She's my friend, too. You shouldn't be leaving her out!"
"Kim, she's not home," Tommy said in amusement.
Kim stopped.
"Oh," she said sheepishly. "Where is she?"
"Not that you probably need to know," Tommy shrugged, "But she's with JJ at track practice."
"Why aren't you there?" she asked curiously.
"One, it's practice," Tommy said drily. "And I don't need to watch him practice running in circles. Two, Kat was just giving him a ride and will pick him up after. She had a meeting during practice. Three, I'm trying to do some grading and organize my end of year lesson plans. Which isn't going well anymore."
"Sorry…" Kim said.
"Hey, Tommy," Jake waved.
"Hey, Jake," Tommy nodded. "So, what's going on?"
"Hold on!" Kim said quickly, leaning forward to her laptop.
"For what?" Tommy frowned.
There were a few clicks and then Tanya and Aisha joined the call. Adam and Rocky were with them. Rocky yawned, leaning back against the couch.
"What's going on?" he asked as he yawned, rubbing a hand over his face. "What are we doing? Is this an intervention? I swear my schedule isn't going to stay like—"
"This isn't about you, Rocky," Aisha interrupted, sighing.
"Oh, good," he said, yawning again. "Then why am I awake?"
"Hold on," Kim answered.
"We have no idea, Rocky," Tommy sighed. "Kim wouldn't tell me, either."
"And I have no idea," Jake shrugged.
"Just be patient," Tanya said.
"That's all I got when Tanya dragged me in her office," Adam shrugged.
Another screen joined and Jason appeared.
"Kim, what exactly is so important that you needed to video call instead of texting?" Jason asked.
Then he noticed it wasn't just them on the call.
"Uh…hello," he said. "What's going on?"
"We've all been asking that question," Adam said, glancing at his wife.
"Pretty much," Tommy grumbled. "Kim, care to explain yet?"
"Well, Tanya, Aisha, and I were talking," Kim said. "And we just wanted to get together and with everyone in different places this was the best way. I tried Trini and Zach, too, but they both had plans they couldn't get out of tonight."
Jason groaned.
"Rocky!" he exclaimed.
"What?" Rocky said, shooting up.
"Why, Rocky?" Jason scowled. "Why?"
"Why what?" Rocky yawned. "What did I do now?"
"You just had to tell all of them, didn't you?" Jason accused.
"Tell them what?"
"That I was sick. That's why she's doing all of this."
Kim rolled her eyes.
"No," she said. "I wanted to see everyone before that. You being sick just gave me an excuse to do it sooner."
"She's telling the truth," Jake said.
"Uh-huh, sure," Jason muttered.
"Either way, don't blame Rocky," Aisha inserted. "He's not awake enough to defend himself right now."
"I'm pretty sure that's the perfect time to blame Rocky for everything," Tommy chuckled.
"I second that!" Adam grinned.
Tanya smacked him on the arm as she shot a look at Tommy.
"Tommy!" she scolded.
"What?" he smirked. "What are any of you going to do to me through the computer?"
"Oh, you just wait," Tanya said, shaking a finger.
"I'm terrified," Tommy grinned, leaning back in his chair.
Tanya scowled at him.
"Anyways," Kim said. "Since you brought it up, Jason… how are you feeling?"
Jason sighed, shaking his head.
"Yeah, I brought it up," he muttered. "Nice transition, Kim."
"What?" she protested. "We are all concerned. We're your friends, Jason."
"Can we maybe talk about something else?" Jason sighed.
"Ok, fine," Kim said. "Tommy—"
"Nope," Tommy interrupted. "Work is good, home is good, that's all you're getting today."
Kim huffed, scowling at him as Jake chuckled.
"Honey, you should have known that wasn't going to work," he said. "Tommy already promised you answers next time we are in town. We just have to give him final dates. Relax."
"Jason, we really did just want to make sure you were alright," Aisha said. "Of course all of us heard you've been sick. Word spreads pretty quickly. It's not like Angel Grove is that big of a city. Plus, all of our mothers know each other. They talk."
"Yeah, but you didn't get it from your mother," Jason said accusingly. "You got it from your husband."
Aisha raised an eyebrow.
"Jason, I was at your house on Saturday with Rocky," she reminded him.
Jason paused.
"Oh, right…" he muttered.
"Ha!" Rocky exclaimed. "Not my fault. Aisha's fault."
Aisha glared at him.
"I love you, honey," Rocky said quickly, trying to hug her.
"Uh huh," she said, elbowing him.
He grunted. The rest of the group were shaking their heads.
"Seriously, Jason," Tanya said. "How are you feeling? Adam said you didn't make it to the dojo this morning for workout. We ask because we care. And the sooner you tell us the sooner we'll stop bugging you. If you want we can always stop by—"
"I would prefer not," Jason interrupted.
He sighed.
"Alright, fine…" he said. "I wasn't feeling the greatest last night or when I woke up this morning…but I'm feeling better now."
Rocky sat up a little more, leaning forward.
"What was it this time?" he asked. "Same things or different?"
Jason shrugged.
"I don't know," he said. "I mean, I was really groggy and lightheaded when I woke up. Nauseous. I've had a headache most of the day and been a little jittery. Dry mouth. So, nothing crazy. It's not like I've been throwing up all day or anything."
Rocky nodded thoughtfully as he studied Jason through the screen.
"And you slept alright?" he asked.
Jason nodded.
"Alright…" Rocky mused. "Sleeping but still tired. Nauseous. Jittery and dry mouth…"
He paused.
"Hmm…" Rocky frowned. "Have you started any new meds recently, Jason?"
Tommy tensed but didn't say anything. Rocky didn't even glance over, his focus on Jason.
"No, why?" Jason answered.
Rocky shrugged.
"No particular reason," he said. "Those are just symptoms you sometimes get when adjusting to a new medication. So, I was ruling that out."
"What kind of medication are you talking about?" Jason frowned.
"Uh… well," Rocky said slowly. "Asthma, anti-inflammatory, or blood pressure. Umm… anything mood stabilizing like anti-depressants or anxiety meds."
"I don't have depression or anxiety, Rocky," Jason said shortly. "Geez. I'm not crazy or a mental case."
Tommy flinched as both Rocky and Adam cringed.
"Jason, that's not—" Tanya frowned.
"I've gotta go," Tommy interrupted.
"Tommy—" Rocky said.
But Tommy had already disconnected. Rocky sighed, shooting a quick glance over at Adam. Jason was scowling at Rocky.
"Alright, let's all calm down," Tanya sighed. "Jason, Rocky didn't mean anything by that."
"No, sorry," Rocky quickly agreed. "Jason, I'm still half-asleep, man. And asking questions is a normal response for me when someone isn't feeling good. I want to help. Part of that is knowing about medications cause I don't want to poison someone or cause more problems. I really am sorry…"
Jason sighed, rubbing a hand over his face.
"Jason, really," Kim said softly. "No one meant anything…"
"I know…" he said. "I'm sorry. I'm just—I'm not used to being sick and not knowing why. It's bugging me."
"That's why we're trying to help," Adam said. "I mean, I know it's a little awkward. And we may not all know everything about each other like we used to, but we do still care about each other."
"Yes!" Kim exclaimed. "And that's why we're on this call. We just want to be able to help you with anything you need."
Jason nodded, sighing again.
"I know you're right," Jason admitted. "I overreacted. I'm sorry."
"Don't apologize," Aisha said, shaking her head. "Rocky does sometimes forget himself and his audience. But even if you were taking any of that there's absolutely nothing wrong with it."
"Right," Rocky agreed. "I'm a nosy idiot. That's why I have Aisha. To make sure I don't say stupid things in public."
"So, what about now?" Adam asked drily.
"This is private," Rocky retorted. "Between friends. Not public."
"I can't stop him all the time…" Aisha sighed.
Jason couldn't help it. Seeing the look on Rocky's face at Aisha's comment, he started laughing.
"Who stops you at work?" he chuckled.
"That's why I have a partner," Rocky shrugged. "They're very particular. I get to drive and stab people with needles. My partner generally asks the questions."
"His bedside manner is questionable sometimes," Adam snickered.
"Hey!" Rocky protested. "People like me."
"I think Adam is right," Jason countered. "I can verify. Tweezers, Rocky."
"It was effective, wasn't it?" Rocky grumbled.
"What did Rocky do with tweezers?" Kim asked. "Try and pluck your eyebrows?"
"I was testing his reflexes," Rocky shrugged. "Good news is he was fine."
Kim frowned.
"That means he was randomly pinching him with tweezers, honey," Jake chuckled.
"Rocky!" Kim exclaimed.
"What?" Rocky said. "It was the most convenient thing. He reacted. He was fine."
Jason chuckled as Kim started scolding Rocky.
"Alright," he interrupted a little while later. "You've checked in. Made me laugh. Verified I'm alive."
He sighed.
"I'm still not the greatest, but I'm fine. Ok?"
"I would be happier if you were feeling better," Kim grumbled.
"I'm working on it," Jason said.
"Have you made an appointment with a doctor?" Rocky asked. "Or taken anything to help? I'm not a doctor, but I could probably come up with a few suggestions if you wanted to try something over the counter. But you really should just go to a doctor if it keeps up."
Jason shook his head.
"I'm pretty sure it's nothing," he said. "Between the move, weather differences between here and New York, stressing over Marc, and everything else…it's probably just some kind of bug. I'm going to focus on eating better and being active. But if you want to send me some suggestions, Rocky, I'll take a shot. I just don't think I need a doctor yet."
Rocky sighed but didn't press.
"Alright, if you're sure," he conceded. "I'll text you a list. But I can also send you a list of good doctors in the area. See who's accepting new patients?"
"I'm good, Rocky," Jason said drily. "I already looked into that when I knew we were moving. I am an adult, after all."
Rocky shrugged with a grin.
"Now," Jason said, glancing around. "You guys have seen me and verified I'm alive. But I'm gonna go."
"I mean, if you insist…" Kim said reluctantly.
"I've got to go make sure Marc has done his homework," Jason said. "And get dinner on the table. I'm not even sure where Christine is right now. Or Will."
Kim sighed but didn't argue. They all said a reluctant goodbye to Jason and he signed off with a wave. Kim turned on the rest of the group.
"You guys had better keep an eye on him," she said, looking at the four in Angel Grove. "Because I don't believe a word he just said."
"We will, Kim," Rocky promised. "Adam?"
"Yeah?" Adam said.
"Call me," Rocky sighed. "There's something else—"
"Yep," Adam interrupted. "I'll call you in a bit."
Rocky nodded. They all finished saying their goodbyes, disconnecting from the call. Sighing, Kim shut her laptop. Jake wrapped his arms around her, kissing the top of her head.
"He'll be alright," he murmured. "And we'll go back soon."
Kim nodded and leaned back.
"I'll just have to keep bugging him," she said. "I wonder why Tommy had to go so suddenly, though?"
Jake shrugged.
"No idea," he said. "But I think you've been nosy enough for one night. How do you feel about a movie instead?"
Reefside, CA
Tommy looked up from grading papers when his phone started ringing. Sighing, he considered ignoring the call. He had a good idea of who it probably was after the video call earlier that evening. After a moment he picked up the phone with a quick glance at the caller ID. It was a double call from Adam and Rocky.
"Hey, Adam," he said. "Hey, Rocky. Did you need something?"
He wanted to keep grading while they talked, so he set the phone on the desk on speaker.
"Hey, Tommy," Adam said. "Sorry to bother you. Are you planning on coming to town this weekend?"
Tommy hesitated.
"I wasn't planning on it…" he said slowly. "Did you need my help with something?"
"Not anything specific," Adam admitted. "Rocky and I were just talking and trying to figure out some plans for open gym."
"And we have more options if you're there," Rocky piped in.
Tommy sighed.
"I don't know, guys," he said. "I should probably spend some time grading. I'm finally caught up and I'd like to stay that way."
"You can do some here," Adam suggested. "Just use my office. That way you can help out with the open gyms and still get some stuff done. I don't need anyone during the classes."
Tommy shook his head.
"I know what you two are doing," he said.
"What do you mean?" Rocky asked.
Tommy rolled his eyes, though he couldn't help but smile at the phone.
"I know you two just want to check on me in person after earlier," he said. "But—it's fine. I'll be down there in the morning. I know you're just concerned, and I do appreciate it."
"Sorry…" Adam said sheepishly. "But thanks."
"Aww…" Rocky said. "Our little falcon is all grown up."
"Rocky—did you have plans to be my practice dummy this weekend?" Tommy asked drily.
"Nope," Rocky said quickly. "That's Adam."
"I don't think so," Adam protested. "You brought that on yourself."
"Oh, no—emergency call," Rocky said. "I gotta go—"
"You are not at work," Adam countered. "So, you can't just run away from teasing him."
Tommy chuckled.
"Guys, I'm fine," he said.
"Are you sure, Tommy?" Rocky asked quietly. "I didn't mean to turn the conversation that way earlier…"
"Seriously, it's fine," Tommy assured him. "You were just concerned for Jason. The only reason I got off that quickly is it took me by surprise."
He sighed.
"But that is why I don't really want it broadcasted…" he admitted. "I'm alright with taking the meds—and it really has helped. But I'm not quite ready to deal with that kind of perception yet."
"That's fair," Rocky said. "But we'll see you in the morning?"
"I'll see you both tomorrow," Tommy agreed. "Now I'd like to finish grading these worksheets so I can get some sleep."
"Oh, wait," Adam said quickly. "Are you bringing JJ? I can let Tanya know."
"Not this time," Tommy said. "One of his friends has a birthday party this weekend that he's going to. It'll just be me."
Saying their goodbyes, the three men hung up and Tommy went back to grading.
Saturday June 2nd, 2018
Angel Grove, CA
"Dad, I'm gonna be late!" Marc said, bouncing in his seat.
Jason was driving Marc to the dojo for class and they were running a little late.
"I told you to make sure you had everything last night," Jason said. "You're the one who managed to lose one shoe."
Marc rolled his eyes.
"Yeah, yeah, yeah," he muttered. "So, are you gonna come to open gym today? You said you might when I asked last time."
"Not today," Jason said, shaking his head. "I really need to get some things done at home. I'm behind on yardwork and I need to make food for next week. Maybe next weekend."
"Come on, dad," Marc pleaded. "It'll be fun. I want to practice with you. You promised you'd start working with me, too."
"I know," Jason sighed. "How about next weekend? Alright? I'll try and come next weekend."
He pulled up to the dojo and parked with Marc still grumbling. The moment Jason parked the car, though, Marc was out of the car and bolting inside.
"Marc, wait!" Jason shouted after him. "You forgot your bag…"
He sighed. Turning off the car, Jason grabbed Marc's duffle bag out of the backseat and quickly followed after him. He didn't want to make Marc have to come all the way back out for it and be even later than he already was.
Rushing inside, Jason was focused on catching up to Marc and not completely paying attention to his surroundings. Until he ran right into someone. Jason grunted, stumbling back and dropping Marc's bag.
"I am so sorry," he said immediately, stooping to grab the bag before looking up.
"Where's the fire?" a familiar voice asked.
Jason looked up in surprise to see Tommy standing a few feet away watching him.
"Oh, Tommy," Jason said, looking at him hesitantly. "I didn't expect to run into you today."
"Literally," Tommy said, raising an eyebrow.
"Sorry," Jason muttered. "Are you just getting here?"
"Yeah," Tommy answered. "Me coming was a last-minute decision. Rocky and Adam talked me into it last night. Are you here today, too?"
Jason quickly shook his head.
"No, Marc left his bag in the car when he ran in," Jason said, holding the bag up. "I actually have some stuff I need to get caught up on at home today."
"Oh," Tommy said, nodding. "Well, if you need to get going I can take it to him for you."
"That would be great," Jason said.
Tommy took the bag from him and slung it over his shoulder. Adam and Rocky had come out of Adam's office and were heading down the hallway toward them.
"Also," Jason said as Tommy turned to leave. "Could you tell Rocky and Adam to please stop meddling in my relationships?"
Tommy paused to look back at Jason in surprise.
"Yeah, I'll pass on the message," Tommy said shortly.
Nodding, Jason turned and hurried out of the dojo. Adam and Rocky walked up to Tommy.
"Where is he going in such a hurry?" Rocky asked.
"Marc forgot his gym bag," Tommy said.
Adam and Rocky both shook their heads in amusement, but Tommy was frowning at them.
"And haven't you two tried this already?" he asked, glancing in the direction Jason had gone and then back at them.
Rocky and Adam exchanged a look and then realized what Tommy meant.
"It's not what you think," Adam said quickly. "We've been trying to get Jason to stop by all week since he was sick again on Monday. Power knows why he would finally come inside today."
"We swear," Rocky added. "It was all a coincidence."
Tommy eyed them both for a moment and then sighed.
"Alright," he said. "I'd better take this to Marc. I'm sure he's noticed by now that it isn't in his locker."
Turning, Tommy hurried toward the locker rooms to get Marc his bag.
Later that afternoon, Tommy shifted his bags on his shoulder as he left the dojo. Open gyms were over for the day so he was heading out and planning on going to the resort for the night. In the parking lot, he was heading toward his truck when he saw Marc and Jason both sitting in the car and it wasn't running. He paused, frowning. Jason had picked Marc up a while before, so they should already be gone.
Changing directions, Tommy walked over to check on them.
"Everything alright?" he asked, pausing near the car.
Jason looked up in surprise. He hesitated and then sighed.
"The car won't start," he muttered. "And I have no idea why…"
"Oh!" Tommy said.
He immediately dropped his bags on the sidewalk and walked around.
"Pop the hood," he said.
Jason looked at him in surprise but did it. Tommy propped it open and started looking over the engine. After checking a few things, he straightened up.
"Let me grab a few things from my truck," Tommy said. "I can see what the problem is."
Scooping up his bags, he jogged over to his truck and tossed them in the truck before grabbing a toolbox from the back. Jogging back over, Tommy immediately got back to work on the engine.
"Tommy, this isn't necessary," Jason said, watching. "I already texted Adam and Rocky to see if one of them can give us a ride. I figured I'll just call a tow truck—"
"It's fine," Tommy said, shaking his head. "Towing is expensive and unnecessary right now. I can get it running well enough you'll make it home and be able to get it to a shop on Monday. And I won't even booby trap it with airhorns like I did with Rocky's trunk."
"Thanks," Jason said gratefully, then he realized what Tommy had said. "Wait—you did what?"
Tommy chuckled.
"Airhorns in the trunk," he said. "Apparently, he opened it for the first time at the firehouse, too. He says I almost killed him—but he's exaggerating."
Marc, who had been watching Tommy work in fascination, laughed. Jason chuckled a little, too. Finishing up a little while later, Tommy was wiping off his hands with a rag when he looked up at Jason again and hesitated.
"I'm sorry if I overstepped," he said.
"What?" Jason frowned. "Oh. No, it's fine. I really didn't want to call a tow truck."
Tommy nodded.
"Yeah," he said. "It should be fine now. But still get it to a shop as soon as you can so they can make sure there aren't any other issues."
Closing the hood and grabbing his tools, Tommy said goodbye and turned to head to his truck.
"Hey, Tommy?" Jason said.
Tommy paused and turned back.
"Thanks," Jason said. "I appreciate the help."
"You're welcome," Tommy nodded. "I'll see you around—take care of yourself."
Tommy was climbing into his truck when Adam and Rocky came walking out talking. Looking between them, they walked over to Jason.
"Everything alright?" Adam asked. "Sorry, we just got your message."
"It's good now," Jason said. "Tommy got it started. We don't need a ride anymore. I've got to get my groceries home now, so I'll see you both later."
With Marc already in the car, Jason climbed in and took off. Tommy had already pulled out. Rocky and Adam shared a hopeful look before heading back inside.
"I just feel so bad…" Aisha sighed.
Tommy, in the driver's seat, glanced over at her. Rocky was sitting in the backseat and Adam and Tanya were following in their car. They had just left the Oliver's house where the kids had all been dropped off with Tommy's mother.
"Why?" Tommy asked. "I haven't seen her that happy in months."
"Tommy, we just left all of our children with your mother!" Aisha exclaimed.
"And?" he said. "Again. I haven't seen her this happy in months. She gets to spend the evening pretending she has six grandchildren instead of one."
Rocky leaned forward from the backseat.
"You do realize we only left five kids, right?" he commented. "And yours is still in Reefside?"
Tommy shrugged.
"She still acknowledges JJ even when he's not there," he said. "So, he still counts."
"You could have given her six," Rocky grinned.
"No," Tommy retorted.
Chuckling, Rocky leaned back again.
"So, where are we going?" Aisha asked. "You never said."
"Out," Tommy shrugged, making a turn. "I just wasn't looking forward to spending another Saturday night at my mother's and she wasn't going to let me be at the resort. I tried. And, sadly, you are my only friends."
"Aww…" Rocky grinned.
"In this town," Tommy quickly added, shooting a look at Rocky in the rearview mirror.
"Well, now I'm not sure if that was a compliment or if he's taking pity on us," Rocky muttered.
Aisha laughed as Tommy chuckled.
"Take it as you will," Tommy said.
He pulled into the parking lot of a restaurant and parked. Adam followed suit. The group of five headed inside to grab a table. They were seated almost immediately. Tommy sat down with Rocky and then Aisha on his right and Adam and then Tanya to his left.
Giving their drink orders, all five started looking over the menu as they continued chatting. Rocky was still complaining about what Tommy had said in the car, but that just gave Adam ammo to join in on giving him a hard time. The two women rolled their eyes at the behavior but didn't try and stop. They were all happy to see Tommy so much more relaxed. Way more than he had been since Draven.
So, they were all confused when Tommy stood suddenly a few minutes later.
"Going to the bathroom," he said quickly, turning and rushing away.
He hadn't waited for an answer. Frowning, Rocky started to stand to go after him. Adam was looking around as Tanya and Aisha exchanged a confused look.
"I should go check on him," Rocky said.
Adam was shaking his head now. He had spotted a group walking toward them and guessed it was Tommy's reason for taking off.
"Don't bother, Rocky," Adam said quickly.
"Why not?" Rocky frowned.
"Them," Adam pointed.
Rocky followed the gesture. Walking toward their table were Mr. and Mrs. Scott with Jason, Christine, and Will in tow.
"Oh!" Rocky said, understanding now. "That's fine then."
He sat back down as Aisha and Tanya frowned at him and Adam.
"What—" Tanya started to ask.
"Just let it go for now," Adam murmured to her.
Mrs. Scott had reached their table. For a moment it was chaos as she took a moment to give them all hugs, asking how they were doing.
"Wasn't someone else with you?" she asked after a moment.
Rocky and Adam hesitated, but the waitress interrupted and saved them from answering.
"Did you all want to sit together?" she asked brightly. "I can pull over another table."
"That would be wonderful!" Mrs. Scott beamed.
"Mom…" Jason said as the waitress went to grab the other table. "We don't—"
"Nonsense," Mrs. Scott scolded. "Now help with the table and come sit down."
Mr. Scott, knowing arguing would be pointless, had already sat down. He'd taken Tommy's empty seat between Rocky and Adam. Mrs. Scott frowned at him but didn't say anything. Will and Christine had already sat down next to Aisha while Jason helped the waitress finish moving the table and chairs.
"I'm sorry, guys," Jason apologized.
His mom just smacked his arm lightly and told him to sit. Mr. Scott was ignoring the chaos as he started talking to Adam about the dojo. With everyone seated, the waitress took drink orders for the rest of the group and hurried to fill those.
"I'll take meal orders when I get back," she smiled.
With her gone, Rocky turned to Mr. Scott.
"Mr. Scott," Rocky said quietly. "That's Tommy's seat…"
He looked over at Rocky.
"I know," he said. "I saw him. But he's not coming back, son. He took that phone of his when he ran."
Rocky stared at Mr. Scott in surprise for a moment and then glanced at the table. It was an unspoken agreement among all of them that Tommy always had the ranger phone out when they were out in public like this. Rather than keep it on ring, he would set it on the table where he could see it and leave it on silent. It would still catch his attention, but not be a distraction or draw the attention of everyone around them if it went off. Some of the tones were a little loud. It concerned Rocky a little that Mr. Scott was aware that Tommy would never take off without the phone, but he wasn't going to get into that issue right now. Especially since Mr. Scott was right. It wasn't sitting on the table where Tommy had placed it. And, if he had intended to be right back, he would have left it with Adam and Rocky since they would watch it for him.
"Yep," Rocky agreed with a sigh. "You're right…"
Across the table, Mrs. Scott had found herself stuck sitting between Christine and Jason and she was clearly not thrilled to be sitting by her daughter-in-law. The waitress had returned with the rest of the drinks. Since they were not all ready to order, she just took orders for appetizers and promised to stop by again in a few minutes.
A little while later, with appetizers arriving and food orders placed—and no sign of Tommy—Aisha stood and excused herself. She came back a moment later and sat back down by Rocky.
"Rocky, Tommy is gone…" she said quietly. "I asked the busboy to check the bathroom and he's not in there."
"Oh, I know," Rocky said. "Aisha, he took the phone."
She blinked at him and glanced at the table. She hadn't even noticed.
"Oh," she said. "Well, anyways. Tommy isn't coming back… he tipped them to let him out the back door."
Adam chuckled.
"And that's why he carries cash," he said in amusement.
Christine, hearing Tommy mentioned, looked over with a scowl.
"Is that man really still around?" she scoffed. "Still lives with his mother, I presume."
Mrs. Scott frowned as Jason winced.
"Tommy's mother is a wonderful person," she said shortly.
"Oh, I'm sure she is," Christine said dismissively. "Not that you'd be able to tell from her son."
That comment got her several scowls.
"Oh, excuse you," Aisha said before anyone could argue with Christine.
She was glaring at Will now. He had shifted in his seat, brushing against Aisha's leg as he did. She shifted a little and Rocky gave him a look from the other side of her. Christine took advantage of the distraction and continued talking, trying to control the conversation. Which she immediately turned to the resort.
"I'm on the waiting list while they finalize my application," she said breezily. "Of course, everything will be in order, but since it's so exclusive everyone has to be checked. But everything should be settled in a day or two and once I'm off the wait list my friends from New York will be coming by for a visit."
"What are you talking about now?" Mrs. Scott asked, paying attention again.
"Mom, she's talking about that resort outside of town," Jason quickly explained.
"Oh, the resort!" Mrs. Scott grinned.
"Yes, I'm on the wait list," Christine said.
"Oh, I hope that goes well for you, honey," Mrs. Scott smirked, patting Christine's hand. "You hear that, sweetheart? She's on a wait list."
Tanya and Aisha were both stifling laughs now as they avoided looking at Christine. Mr. Scott sighed as he shook his head. But he picked up his phone as Christine continued going on about the resort. Aisha was glaring at Will again, asking him to keep his distance.
So, waitlist?
It didn't take Tommy long to answer. They weren't far from his mother's house, so Mr. Scott assumed he had already made it there. And he didn't ask any clarifying questions, to Mr. Scott's amusement.
Tommy: There's always been one. Technically. Since they have to wait for background and security checks.
But there's that waitlist and then there is the wait for eternity list. I'll let you guess which one she's on.
Mr. Scott chuckled quietly to himself as he responded.
Mr. Scott: I've always liked you
His attention was pulled from his phone, however, by a commotion on the other side of Rocky. Aisha was snapping at Will, a fork brandished at him.
"I have warned you multiple times now," Aisha hissed at Will. "Touch me one more time and I will not hesitate to—"
"Aisha, no," Rocky said quickly.
He practically jumped out of his seat to catch her wrist as Will just smirked. Rather than just brushing her leg that time, he had pretended to shift his chair but used hers instead. Which had led to him touching her butt.
"Sit by Mr. Scott," Rocky said quietly, ushering his wife into his seat. "I'll deal with him."
She scowled but shifted over and Rocky sat down next to Will. He glared at him, but Will just shrugged and went back to his food with a smirk. Christine rolled her eyes, turning to look at Adam.
"So, how is your little Pilates place doing?" she asked sweetly.
Adam stared at her for a moment in surprise before he answered.
"It's a dojo," he said rather stiffly. "And it's fine."
"Dodo?" Christine said. "Wait. Isn't that like a dead bird?"
Jason grimaced, facepalming before looking over at his wife.
"Dojo, Christine," he enunciated. "Adam owns a martial arts studio."
"Oh, right," Christine said, waving a hand in dismissal. "It's that place you take our son to get beat up by other kids."
Adam frowned.
"Adam's dojo is a fantastic establishment," Mrs. Scott inserted. "And I think it's wonderful that Marc is taking classes there. Jason always did martial arts growing up. It's an excellent way to get exercise and develop self-control and make new friends. I couldn't recommend anything better for a teenager in a new town."
Christine scoffed, picking at her appetizer.
"It's barbaric and nasty and—"
"And a place where he can learn how to defend himself and others," Mr. Scott said firmly. "And not just physically."
Adam, who hadn't said a word in protest, took a deep breath and quickly changed the subject.
"Speaking of," he said, looking at Jason. "Where is Marc tonight?"
"Oh, at home," Jason said. "He wanted to call some of his friends instead of coming out to dinner with us—"
"And he's plenty old enough to spend a few hours at home alone and learn some responsibility," his mother interrupted. "He's fine, Jason. We left you alone at home all the time when you were his age and you were just fine."
Rocky choked and Aisha smacked him on the back as he started coughing. Mr. Scott gave him an amused look.
"Careful there, son," he said. "Someone might think you're hiding something."
Rocky's head shot around to stare at Mr. Scott in shock as he grabbed his glass to take a drink of water. Aisha, Tanya, and Adam shot quick glances at him as well. Jason hadn't caught the comment, distracted by his mother. The topic quickly changed, however, as the waitress returned with their dinner. She finished handing out plates and then realized she had an extra. None of them had canceled Tommy's food.
"Just box it up," Mr. Scott said when the waitress hesitated. "I'll drop it off on the way home."
With food arrived, they all settled down to eat. When the bills came a while later, Jason tried to take his, but his mother snatched it from him.
"Don't be ridiculous, honey," Mrs. Scott said when he tried to protest. "We're paying for everyone."
Mr. Scott sighed and pulled out his wallet, taking the rest of the bills off the table, too.
"I guess we're paying for everyone," he said.
"That's not nece—" Rocky tried to protest.
"Nope," Mr. Scott interrupted. "You heard her. And you don't want to argue with her. She'll tell your mother."
"Alright, alright," Rocky quickly conceded. "Geez."
Outside in the parking lot after paying, they said their goodbyes and split to head to their vehicles. It was at this point that it finally dawned on Rocky that Tommy leaving meant he had no car.
"We rode with Tommy," he groaned, looking at Aisha.
Adam, unlocking his car, laughed.
"It's fine," he said. "Get in. You can ride back to the house with us to get your kids and car."
Grumbling, Rocky walked over to climb into Adam and Tanya's car. They had to quickly move the girls' car seats out of the way.
"I am going to give him such a hard time for abandoning me," Rocky muttered.
"Us, Rocky," Aisha corrected.
"Right," he said. "Us. Abandoning us. And he worried me! I thought he was sick or something!"
Still laughing, Adam just told him to get in again so they could leave.
Sunday June 3rd, 2018
Angel Grove, CA
"Jason, what are you doing?" Christine said, grabbing his arm.
Jason stopped in the middle of standing up, grimacing and putting a hand on his stomach.
"I have to pick up Marc from the mall," he muttered. "And I'm not so sure I should have had that glass of wine. It's not sitting right. I guess I'm still not completely over that bug."
"But we are having such a nice afternoon," she pouted, trying to pull him back on the couch next to her. "Call your mom. I'm sure she can pick up Marc. Then we can spend the rest of the evening just the two of us. We can order dinner and maybe watch a movie."
Jason shook his head, gently pulling his arm away from Christine.
"He already spent most of last week there because I was sick," he said, taking a deep breath. "He needs to spend some time at home with us, too."
He started slowly making his way to put on shoes.
"Please, Jason," Christine begged, getting up to follow him. "I'll go pick him up later tonight. Just spend some more time with me."
"I really should—" Jason started to argue.
He was interrupted by a knock on the door. Jason frowned, turning in surprise. Behind him, Christine scowled. But he was closer to the door and answered it before she could. Tommy was waiting outside, holding a pan in his hands.
"Hey, Jason," he said, looking uncomfortable.
"What are you doing here?" Jason frowned, surprised to see him.
"Sorry to bother you," Tommy answered. "But I come in peace. My mom heard you had been sick and made a casserole. She asked me to deliver it on my way out of town—and she wasn't taking no for an option…she put it in one of her dishes so she has an excuse to come get it from you and see how you're feeling. So, I can't just take it home with me…"
He shrugged, trailing off.
"Oh," Jason said. "Umm… yeah. Come in. We can put it in the kitchen."
He moved out of the way, letting a surprised Tommy into the house.
"Kitchen is that way," Jason said, pointing the way.
Shutting the door, he followed Tommy toward the kitchen. Christine was still standing in the hall, her arms crossed and a scowl on her face as they walked past.
"Where do you want me to put this?" Tommy asked, turning to look at Jason. "Then I can get out of your way."
Jason didn't answer, he was leaning on a chair. He was pale and the look on his face said he was in pain. Tommy quickly set the casserole down on the counter.
"Jason, are you ok?" Tommy asked, reaching out to put a hand on his shoulder.
Jason started to answer but threw up instead. Tommy saw it coming and managed to jump mostly out of the way.
"Nope, not ok," Tommy muttered.
But he jumped back forward to catch Jason as his legs gave out.
"Jason?" he exclaimed. "Jase? Rex, stay with me."
But Jason had already passed out. Christine was standing in the doorway, watching with an irritated look on her face.
"Help me get him to the couch," Tommy said, looking at her expectantly.
"Umm… how?" she said, raising an eyebrow. "I can't lift him, and I certainly don't want any of that on me."
Tommy scowled at her, hooking Jason's arm around his shoulders and lifting him as best he could. He slowly moved him to the living room, Christine practically jumping out of the way when they reached the hallway. Tommy finally got him to the couch and carefully laid him down on his side. Will, having heard the commotion, was standing on the stairs observing.
"Well, good job getting him to the couch," Christine said dismissively. "You can go now."
Tommy frowned as he straightened up, turning to look at her with his arms crossed.
"I don't think so," he said. "Something is clearly wrong with Jason. I'm not going anywhere until I'm sure he's going to be alright."
"We don't need your help anymore," Christine scoffed. "You got him up—which is plenty help from a neanderthal like you. So, leave. It's your fault he got sick anyways."
"And what is that supposed to mean?" Tommy snapped, not moving.
"He was fine until you walked in here with that casserole," she said. "He's still recovering, you know, and you set his stomach off again."
She spun on her heel, stalking into the kitchen. Tommy heard a thump as she dumped the casserole out in the trash. Will smirked, leaning on the railing as Christine came stalking back.
"Problem solved," she said. "Now get out."
"You could have just put it in the freezer," Tommy scowled. "I was bringing it by as a favor since he's been sick. And I already told you—I'm not leaving him like this. He just passed out!"
Will straightened up, coming down to join his sister.
"Yes, you are," he said. "This is my sister's house, and she wants you out. So, get out."
Tommy and Will glared at each other for a moment as Christine stood next to her brother with a smirk.
"Fine," Tommy said flatly. "I'll go. But I'm calling the paramedics to come check on him. Because someone needs to make sure he's actually alright. If he's passing out than he's a lot sicker than he was letting on."
The smirks on Will and Christine's faces froze as Tommy waited for an answer, pulling his phone out of his pocket. Will hissed something in Christine's ear as Tommy started to dial.
"No, don't," Christine sputtered. "You don't need to call anyone."
Tommy paused, raising an eyebrow.
"I'm not just going to leave him like this," Tommy said. "And you want me to leave, so…"
Christine exchanged a scowl with her brother.
"You know what, fine," she said, throwing her hands up. "You want to take care of him? Then you take care of him. We're going to go get dinner. He's your problem. Do what you want."
Tommy watched as Will and Christine both grabbed their things and stalked out of the house. Once they were gone, Tommy turned back to Jason with a sigh.
"Something is weird with them, Rex," he muttered. "And not a good weird. You aren't going to want to hear it, but something is just not right."
He checked to make sure Jason was comfortable and breathing normally. From what Tommy could tell, he had just passed out. Satisfied Jason was fine for the moment, Tommy pulled his phone back out and went to the kitchen to clean up. He dug under the sink for cleaning supplies, tucking the phone between his ear and his shoulder as he waited for Kat to pick up.
"Hey, sweetheart," she said when she answered. "Are you on your way back?"
"Not exactly," Tommy said as he started cleaning the mess on the floor. "I'm not going to make it back tonight."
"Why?" Kat asked slowly.
"It's Jason," Tommy sighed. "I was dropping off a casserole from mom before I left town. He got sick and passed out. I didn't want to leave him here alone—or with his wife and her brother. The fact that they didn't seem overly concerned at him being sick just doesn't sit right with me and I…I couldn't just leave him like that…"
"Are they not there then?" Kat asked in surprise.
"Well, they were," Tommy said. "Now they aren't. But the point is, I'm staying here tonight. Can you call the school for me? Anton is in town so he can probably sub for me."
"Yes, I will," she said. "Please keep me updated. And call for help if you have to. I love you."
"Thanks, honey," he said. "I love you, too. Tell JJ I'll call him before bed to say goodnight."
Hanging up, Tommy sighed as he glanced around. The kitchen was clean. Now he had to take care of his pants.
"Guess I'm raiding Jason's closet," he muttered. "Cause everything I have with me is already worn."
New York City, NY
Jake glanced up from his computer as Kim wandered into the room on her phone. She had been talking to Aisha—or Tanya, he wasn't sure—for the last twenty minutes.
"Are you serious?" Kim exclaimed. "She left him alone? Why would she leave him alone if he is that sick?"
She paused, listening.
"That's it," she said. "I'm coming back now. I don't want to wait two more weeks. I'll call you when I get there."
Hanging up, Kim spun. Jake had gone back to working on his computer.
"Jake, we're leaving," she said.
"Umm… what?" Jake said, turning to look at her. "Where are we going?"
"California," Kim said. "Jason is sick again and it seems to be getting worse."
"So, we're both going now?" Jake asked slowly.
"Well, you can let me go alone if you'd like," Kim said, crossing her arms and smirking at her husband. "But you don't get to hold me responsible for my actions."
Jake frowned.
"What is that supposed to mean?" he asked.
"Christine has been ignoring Jason while he's been sick," she said. "And she also insulted Aisha and Tanya a few days ago."
"Alright, I'm coming," Jake said quickly, closing his computer. "You start packing and I'll call the airport to set up a flight plan. We'll get a room at the resort. I'll text Tommy."
"Thank you," Kim beamed, giving him a quick kiss before bouncing out of the room.
Angel Grove, CA
Tommy had just finished changing and was putting his pants in the washer when he heard Jason's phone ringing in the living room. Hurrying up, he checked the caller ID and saw it was Marc.
"Hey Marc, it's Tommy," he said, answering it quickly.
"Umm… hi," Marc said hesitantly. "Uh—where's dad? He was supposed to be here to pick me up like thirty minutes ago."
"Oh," Tommy said, glancing at Jason passed out on the couch. "Hold tight. Your dad isn't feeling the greatest right now. But I'll get someone to come get you right away. Where are you?"
"I'm at the mall," Marc said. "My friends were already picked up, so I can't get a ride with them. Is dad ok?"
"It's alright, Marc," Tommy said. "Your dad is going to be fine. Let me make a call and I'll call you right back, ok?"
Hanging up with Marc, Tommy quickly hit another number on Jason's speed dial.
"Hey Mrs. Scott, it's Tommy," he said. "Any chance you could go pick up Marc from the mall and take him home with you tonight?"
He paused as she quickly asked about Jason. He knew she would be concerned.
"He's just having a bad night," Tommy said. "I've got everything under control here, but I can't leave to get Marc. I can get his stuff together while you pick him up though. That way you can just grab it and go."
He paused again, nodding.
"Alright," he said. "I'll get it ready and call Marc to tell him you are on the way. He's at the mall. I'll have him wait out in front of the food court so you can find him."
After getting off the phone with Jason's mother, he quickly called Marc to update him. Then he tucked Jason's phone in his own pocket and headed upstairs to find Marc's room so he could get his school stuff together as well as a few changes of clothes. By the time Mrs. Scott arrived twenty minutes later, Tommy had a bag ready and waiting. He'd also gotten word from Jake that he and Kim were heading for California, which he was sure Jason was going to love hearing. But he met Mrs. Scott at the door, not wanting to risk Marc coming in and seeing Jason unconscious again.
"How is he?" she asked worriedly, glancing over her shoulder to where Marc was waiting in the car. "Do I need to keep Marc for a few days?"
"Well, he got sick earlier and then passed out," Tommy said, shaking his head. "So, I'm not sure. But I packed enough for him for a few days just in case."
He paused, hesitating.
"Has Jason seen a doctor about this?" he asked. "Rocky and Adam didn't say anything. But this seems like it's more than a stomach bug…"
Mrs. Scott sighed, shaking her head.
"Not that I know of," she said. "I've tried offering to take him, but he always tells me he's fine."
"That seems about right," Tommy sighed.
"Take care of him, please," she said. "And call me as soon as he wakes up."
"I will," Tommy said. "Tell Marc everything is fine. I don't want him to worry too much."
Thanking him again, Mrs. Scott got back in her car and left with Marc. There was still no sign of Christine and Will coming back. Mrs. Scott hadn't asked about them and Tommy didn't offer. He really didn't want to be caught in the middle of that—actually, any of this. But he also couldn't bring himself to just leave, either. Right now it didn't matter that Jason probably still hated him, he wasn't going to walk away when he needed help.
Before he went back inside, Tommy jogged over to his truck and grabbed his black backpack out and glanced at his duffle bag. He didn't have any clean clothes in the duffle bag, since he had been planning on being home that night, but he grabbed that as well and brought it in. He'd just throw the stuff in the washer with his pants in case he had to be there for a few days. He hadn't started the machine yet, anyways. Then he headed back inside to keep an eye on Jason.