help3

"What's wrong?" JoAnne asked when she stepped into their bedroom and saw him hang up the phone. Roy looked up at his wife and half smiled, noticing how refreshed she looked after her soak in the tub.

"Nothing. I was just phoning Jenny."

"What did she say?" JoAnne walked over to her dresser, opened the drawer that held her nightclothes and pulled out a pink two piece silk pajamas set.

"Nothing. I didn't talk with her."

JoAnne turned around and looked at her husband. "She's not home?"

"No! What all did she say when she called earlier?"

"Not much. She said she was going to be a bit later than she thought and asked if it was okay if Kaitlin stayed a little longer. So, I suggested Kaitlin stay the night, and then she could relax and enjoy herself."

"Did she tell you what she was doing?"

"She said she was going out after work. I think she was gonna meet up with some friends from the hospital…go out for a late dinner. You and I both know she could use a bit of a break. After all, it seems like all she does these days is work. She barely has any time for Kaitlin let alone Johnny. And with Johnny out of town tonight…well…maybe it would be a good thing if…Roy, are you listening to me?"

Roy stopped listening to JoAnne right about the time his wife mentioned that their daughter was too busy for her family, or at least that's how he understood the words that were being told to him. 'Maybe there was some kind of a problem…a big problem between Johnny and Jenny,' he thought.

"Huh," he said looking up at JoAnne. He smiled. As she talked to him, he didn't even realize that she had slipped into her pajamas. The pink silk looked good on her and he was pleased that after all the years they had to scrimp, he was able to provide some of the nicer things in life for his wife.

"I asked you if you were listening to me."

"Yeah. I am," he replied. "Do you have any idea where she went?"

"I don't know for sure, but she probably went to that bar and grill, 'The Suite'. That's where a lot of nurses and doctors go after work. Jenny mentioned they have good food there."

"JoAnne would you mind if I went out to check on our daughter and to make sure she got home okay?"

"Of course I don't mind. I wouldn't expect anything less from you as far as our children are concerned."

"I might be gone for awhile. Will you be okay?"

"Of course I will, silly. I'll be fine. Now go," she urged. "I'll make sure the house is locked up after you leave. I'll check on our granddaughter, and then I'll curl up in bed with a book until you get back."

"I love you, JoAnne."

"I love you too, Roy."

****

Roy couldn't help it, his mind was in overdrive as he drove toward Jenny and Johnny's house. Between the conversation he had with his granddaughter and the conversation he had with a perky young brunette at 'The Suite', he was worried. The girl was more than willing to tell Roy all about Jenny Gage tying one on and leaving with a dashing young doctor that every 'single' woman in the hospital had designs on.

He wondered if Kaitlin's concerns had merit. But then he couldn't bring himself to believe Jenny would 'step out' on Johnny whether he was away or not. There had to be an explanation and he was damn well gonna get to the bottom of it before the rumor of Jenny being with this doctor got back to Johnny and all hell broke loose. If there was one thing Roy knew, John Gage believed strongly in trust and loyalty, and his stubborn pride would more than likely get in his way of seeing or listening to the truth.

****

Jake helped Jenny walk to the door. Her attempt to get the key in the door failed, so he had to help.

"Turn off alarm," Jenny whispered.

"What?"

"Turn alarm off." She pointed to the security panel on the wall. "Numbers are 3-3-2-3-K." Jake walked to the panel and punched in the numbers. The alarmed light went from red to green. In the meantime, Jenny made her way to the couch.

"Don't feel good, Jake. What's wrong?"

Jake took off his sports jacket and placed it on the chair. "Let me check you out." He reached out to her and put his hand on her forehead. "You don't have a fever." He sat down next to her. "But you are warm. Maybe if you get comfortable you'll feel better." He knew that the drug he gave her made her susceptible to suggestion.

"Thirsty." Jenny pointed toward the kitchen and Jake understood. He got up and took a quick survey of the house. He liked what he saw, how simple yet comfortable the surroundings were. Jake turned the light on in the kitchen and pulled a glass from the cabinet. He found bottled water in the refrigerator and poured a glass. He headed back to the living room, but turned the kitchen light off first.

Jenny was wearing a blouse and slacks. She made herself comfortable on the couch and had her feet up. Her eyes were closed and she had her hands over her face. Jake walked over and sat down on the floor next to her, handing her the glass.

"Here, drink this slowly." He placed the glass next to her lips. Jenny took small sips without opening her eyes.

"Can't move much. Room spins," Jenny whispered.

Jake put the glass down on the floor. With his right hand he started stroking her forehead. "You'll feel fine in awhile. This will pass." He moved closer to her and moved her hands down by her side. "Let me make you more comfortable." Jake stood up and took her shoes and socks off. "That will cool you off." He took her left foot in his hand and started to massage it. Jenny moaned softly. "Feels good, Ole Man." Jake smiled by her comment, unaware of the significance of her statement.

Jake continued to massage and stroke her feet. He paused to undo his tie and unbutton his collar. The phone rang which made Jake look at his watch. It was only 8:30. He figured it was her husband calling to check in. The answering machine picked up but the voice was muted, so Jake wouldn't know who the call was from.

"More water." Jenny's eyes were still closed, but she pointed to the floor. Jake helped Jenny sit up and brought the glass to her lips. She took a few more slips, slowly. She wanted to lean back, but Jake wouldn't let her. Instead, he started unbuttoning her blouse. He helped her take her blouse off and he ran his fingers over her smooth skin. Jenny giggled from the sensation, which excited Jake even more.

"You don't know how you turn me own Jenny." Jake started kissing her shoulder softly. His hands reached around her back and he unsnapped her bra, which fell off her shoulder, exposing her breasts. He ran his hands over her breasts cupping each one and then pinching her nipples. Jenny arched her head back from the sensation. "Let me help you take your clothes off." Jenny just shook her head which made Jake more anxious to serve his needs. He unzipped her pants and pushed them down her body. She was wearing white lace panties which Jake touched using the heel of his hand. Running it across her abdomen, he noticed the scar from her c-section. He bent down and kissed the scar. Jenny touched his head, running her hands through his hair. This thrilled Jake even more. He placed his hands under her buttocks and removed the rest of her clothing. She was naked and was all his.

Seeing her ready for him, Jake unzipped his pants. Fearing he might get scratched, he secured both of Jenny's hands above her head and held them with his left hand. With his right hand, he stroked her face lovingly. Now he was ready and settled on top of Jenny. The sensation was too much for him and he cried out in pleasure. With increasing need his movements became more urgent. This was the first time Jenny's muddled brain realized something was wrong.

"You're hurting me, Johnny."

Upon hearing that name, Jake stopped his movements. He decided to slow it down somewhat and savor the moment. He moved his head closer to her and started kissing her. She moaned a bit and then opened her eyes. This was the first time she fully realized something was wrong. Her vision was doubled but she knew the face above hers was not Johnny's. She tried to push him off, but as hard as she tried, there was no way she could stop him. Her struggles excited Jake more and he decided to return to his former stride.

Jenny started crying. Somewhere in her brain, she understood that someone else besides Johnny was doing this to her.

"Don't cry, Jennifer. This is beautiful. You'll see," he said just before he achieved what he wanted to. His desire was satisfied but he was not spent. He slowly raised himself from Jennifer and took a sip of water. He too was dehydrated, but it was for different reasons. He looked at her, with her tears running down her face. He brushed them away with his hand and gently placed a kiss on her nose and then stood up.

After zipping up his pants, he looked around the room. Finding a blanket, he picked it up and placed it over Jennifer, who appeared to have fallen back to sleep. Her clothes that were scattered on the floor so he picked up and folded them neatly on a chair. She looked so beautiful sleeping there. As much as he wanted to spend the rest of the night with her, he knew the time limit of the drug she took. He put the glass closer to her hand, just in case she needed it. The halogen light was lowered, so the room was darker. He took one look around to make sure nothing of his was left there. Feeling his desires returning, Jake knew he had to leave now, but in his heart he knew.

***

Roy drove up to Johnny's house but didn't see Jenny's car there. A dim light was on. Using his key, he entered the house.

He saw his daughter asleep on the couch and a smile went across his face. He figured the stress of her long hours and worrying over Chris did her in. Something looked strange. Jenny looked flush. Roy walked over to her and touched her head, bringing back memories of taking her temperature so many years ago. Jenny stirred about and the blanket covering her fell off.

Roy was surprised to see Jenny naked. Granted, he didn't know how she lived in her own home, but her nakedness distracted him. Roy reached over and returned the blanket to cover her. He became concerned, her flushness and stupor was unsettling.

"Jen, its Dad, wake up." Roy gently rocked her shoulder. "Are you okay?"

"Hmm. Daddy? What are you doing here?" Jenny got up on her elbows and the blanket fell down again. Embarrassed by her nudity, she moved the blanket and tucked it in.

"You were going to call back and check on Kaitlin. When we didn't hear from you, I got worried." Of course Roy wasn't going to say anything about the conversation he had with Kaitlin nor the gossip he heard about Jenny and another man.

"I must have had too much to drink. I'm so thirsty." She saw the half empty glass on the floor, picked it up and drank some. She frowned. "I don't remember how it got there. Or how I got here."

"Why don't you go upstairs and settle in for the night. I'll stay over in your guest room and tomorrow we can pick up your car at the hospital."

Jenny looked up at her dad with a confused look, but got up, wrapping the blanket around her. She made her way up the stairs to her room. Roy was still worried about her, but she seemed to be okay now. He went to the phone to call JoAnne.

"I found her, Jo. Yeah, she was home sleeping. She's a bit flushed. I'm gonna stay over and bring her to the hospital to retrieve her car. Glad I'm off tomorrow. Is Katie Roo okay? Good. I love you too."

Roy hung the phone up. He activated the alarm, as Johnny showed him how to do and went up to the guest room where Chris was supposed to be sleeping.

At 3:00AM Roy was awakened by screams. At first he thought it was Kaitlin, but he realized he was in his daughter's home. Still in his street clothes, he ran to his daughter's room.

"NO, STOP, NO YOU CAN'T DO THIS TO ME STOP. STOP. STOP. WHY?"

Roy figured Jenny was having a terrible nightmare. Unbeknownst to either Roy or Jenny, the drug that Forrestor gave Jenny had side affects including vivid flashbacks, which was what Jenny was going through now.

Jenny was thrashing in her bed, punching out at some unforeseen assailant. Roy was instantly by her side and a blow landed across his cheek. Stunned by the blow, Roy restrained her hands which made Jenny thrash about more, kicking and arching her body.

"Jenny, wake up, you're having a bad dream." Roy softly said to his daughter, hoping his voice would reach her. He held her hands with his left hand and stroked her face with his other. Jenny tried to bite him. Roy resorted to shaking her to wake her up, but that didn't work. As quickly as Jenny's thrashing started, it stopped and she returned to her sleep. However, that didn't make it easy for Roy who was truly worried about her. He thought for a few minutes before making a phone call.

"Hi Kel. It's Roy. Sorry to wake you at this time. Do you still make house calls?" Roy laughed. "It's Jenny. I'm with her at her home. Johnny's out of town and something's come over her. Yeah I thought about taking her there, but after you see her and if you decide to do that then okay. Thanks, Kel. I owe you one." Roy laughed again. "Okay, I'll convince Jo to make a lasagna. See you in twenty minutes."

Roy stood. Seeing his daughter was peacefully sleeping he went to the bathroom. Looking in the mirror he saw the damage from her punch. A fingernail must have caught him as he had a bloody scratch on his cheek. Roy was brought out from his reverie when he heard Jenny talking again.

"WHY ME? WHY ARE YOU DOING THIS TO ME? YOU'RE HURTING ME!"

An anguished cry came from her. Jenny was sitting up in her bed and Roy ran to her side.

"Daddy." Jenny held out her arms in recognition of Roy's presence. She sobbed uncontrollably in his arms. Roy tried asking questions, but Jenny didn't understand anything he asked. He knew from his training, his daughter was hysterical. He just held her tightly as she sobbed with intermittent screaming. Only when he heard knocking on the door did he get up. Jenny held onto a pillow while Roy ran downstairs.

Roy knew Kel Brackett would be knocking but was surprised to see Dixie McCall with him.

"She was close by," was Brackett's statement concerning Dixie being with him. Their on again-off again relationship must have been on again, was all Roy thought.

"Tell me what's happened," Kel asked.

"I came here and found her sleeping on the couch. I woke her up and she seemed groggy. I helped her upstairs and then we went to sleep. She woke up screaming about ½ hour ago and has been inconsolable since."

"And a bit violent?" Dixie asked as her finger traced Roy's bruised face.

Roy bowed his head in acknowledgement.

"Let's go up and see her." The three made their way to Jen's bedroom. She was sitting up hugging a pillow when the three walked in. There was a wild look in her eyes that alerted Kel to her condition. He approached cautiously.

"Hi Jen, it's me, Kel Brackett. And I've got Dixie with me." Kel motioned for Dixie to stand next to him. Jen's eyes focused on Kel, then Dixie, then Roy and then back to Kel.

"Can I sit on the bed with you?" Jenny looked frightened but appeared to understand the question. She nodded her head. Kel motioned for Dixie to sit near her, knowing that Jenny and Dixie shared a special bond.

"Where are Johnny and Kaitlin?" Brackett asked. Being semi-retired, he wasn't up with the day to day running of Rampart.

In a whisper Roy answered, "Johnny's in Sacramento and Kaitlin's with JoAnne, thank goodness."

Dixie took Jenny's arm and took her pulse. Dixie rolled her eyes back, which indicated Jen's pulse, was racing. Settling his doctor's black bag on the bed, Kel pulled out the blood pressure equipment. Again he passed it to Dixie slowly and she took it in her hands.

Saying soothing words, Dixie was able to take the blood pressure. She told Kel it was 170 over 110, extremely high.

"Roy, I don't know what's going on but we should get her to Rampart."

Upon hearing that word, Jenny screamed. "NO YOU CAN'T TAKE ME THERE. NO. NO. HE'S THERE. HE'S THERE." Jenny pulled away from Dixie, got up and ran to the corner of her room.

"Who's there Jenny?" Dixie asked, but Jenny wasn't hearing. Roy was known as one of the best paramedics to deal with overwrought patients, but he never thought he'd have to use those skills with his daughter.

"Let me try Dix." Roy traded places with Dixie and moved closer to Jenny.

"Little one, it's me. I'm not going to let anyone hurt you. Let Poppa make it better."

Whatever Roy said, struck a note and Jenny responded. She opened up her arms beckoning Roy to join her. He sat down on the floor and held her as she cried. The tears didn't stop as she sobbed. Roy's heart was breaking hold his distraught daughter.

Kel and Dixie just stood and watched. After five minutes Jenny settled down.

"He hurt me Daddy," Jenny said in a small girl's voice.

Roy bristled. He couldn't imagine who could have hurt her. Johnny was out of town and would never in a million years harm Jennifer. "Who Jen? Who hurt you?"

"He raped me Daddy." Jennifer tucked her head onto Roy's shoulder and cried.

Upon hearing that word all three bristled. Roy knew that a man took Jennifer home and that could explain the fact she was naked and asleep in the living room, but Jennifer was a fighter and why would she let a strange man into her home.

Roy gently tilted Jenny's head back and asked, "Who raped you?"

"He raped me Daddy. He hurt me Daddy."

"If she was raped Roy, the police have to be notified. And I don't have a rape kit with me. We have to take her to Rampart," Brackett softly stated.

"NO. NO RAMPART." Jenny got agitated again. Kel went to his black bag and took out a needle and a vial.

"Diazepam?" Dixie asked.

Kel shook his head. "It'll relax her." He readied the needle, swabbed her shoulder and injected her. Within seconds, her body relaxed.

"Kel, Jenny went out after work with some people, maybe it was someone from there." Roy hated even thinking that.

"Well, let me call St Francis and arrange to have her admitted there."

"Where's Johnny, Daddy? I need Johnny." Jenny weakly said.

"Johnny should be called," Dix spoke up.

"I don't know what hotel he's in." Roy had an idea. He went down to their answering machine and played the messages. Two were from him, but one was from Johnny checking in. There was no message as to where he was staying. Roy came back upstairs. During the time he was away, Dixie and Kelly had moved Jenny onto the bed and now Kel was on the phone making arrangements. Roy sat on the bed next to his daughter, holding her hand. "What hotel is Johnny in, Jenny? Do you remember?"

"Mmmmm." She shifted in bed as the tranquilizer settled in.

"It's arranged. I can admit her to St Francis and Dix and I can examine her. But I notified the police Roy. I had to."

Roy shook his head in defeat. He understood more than Kel could realize. He and Johnny responded to many rape cases during their career. Never did he think it could happen to someone he loved.

"I'll carry her to your car."

Dixie packed a small bag of personal items for Jenny. Roy picked Jen up and the three walked to Brackett's car.

***

The four people made it to St Francis in no time. Kel Brackett was met at the Emergency room entrance with a gurney and the doctor on call. Kel was told to let them know if he needed anything. He was given more than casual courtesy because of his reputation. He, Dixie, Roy and a policewoman escorted Jennifer into a private examination room.

"Roy, I think you should wait outside while I do the exam. Dix will be here with me."

Roy knew he couldn't stay to watch this. It was horrible for him to think about. Checking his watch, it was 4:30AM. He didn't dare call JoAnne. She'd be upset enough. He had no way of knowing what hotel Johnny was staying in. All he knew from the message was that Johnny would be home in the early afternoon. Thank goodness it was Friday. Roy left the examination room, found a waiting room and sat down. He leaned his weary head against the cool wall. His folded hands rested on his lap. Wild thoughts raced through his mind. Was Jennifer raped? By whom and why? And if it was true, how would his little one deal with it. And Johnny? How would Johnny deal with this? Roy'd been witness to Johnny's outbursts and could only imagine what would happen. Roy looked at his watch and decided to make a call.

He stood up and dug in his pocket for some change and went over to the bank of phones.

"Chet, I'm sorry to wake you up. I need you to do me a big favor." Roy continued on with his request and acknowledgement from Chet that he'd do so. That was taken care of and Roy returned to his vigil in the waiting room. He must have fallen asleep as Dixie was softly calling his name. Roy woke up startled but quickly figured out where he was. Dixie motioned for Roy to follow her and he did.

The two of them met Kel in an available cubicle. Kel's expression was serious which Roy immediately picked up on.

"The exam indicated intercourse recently took place Roy." Kel stated as compassionately as one could given the situation. Roy paled and looked upwards. Dixie knew the signs and she helped Roy sit down.

"I've given the evidence to the police. There was no internal damage. I've taken blood and will have tests run, including HIV. She's also been admitted and I have her sedated now. There will be a guard outside her room and he'll only admit the names I give him which include you, JoAnne, Johnny, Dix and myself. Are there any others that I should add?"

Roy thought for a moment. His mind wandered, he couldn't think. One of the worse fears a father could have came true. His baby girl was assaulted. It was hard enough years ago when she was mugged in the hospital's parking lot, but this was worse. This happened in her own home.

"Roy. Roy?" Kel said.

"Sorry doc. I'm having a difficult time with this right now."

Kel grimaced. He could only imagine what Roy was going through. "The police said they're going to want to go to the house for evidence. And they're gonna want to talk with you. I already told them she's in no condition to speak. Maybe later Friday, but certainly not now."

"I want to stay here with Jenny."

"Do you want me to go, Roy?" Dixie asked.

Roy smiled knowing one burden was eased. He took the keys out from his pocket and gave them to Dixie.

"I'll bring them back to you here." Dixie got up and went over to the detective.

Kel brought Roy upstairs and introduced him to the staff. Roy was afforded the dignity of the situation. After seeing his daughter asleep in the room, with the guard outside, Roy knew he had to call JoAnne and notify her. In the back of his mind, Roy wondered if Montgomery Bodine had a hand in this and he didn't want JoAnne to leave Kaitlin at daycare Friday morning. Roy was going to have Chet bring Chris to JoAnne and stay with her until he got back. But Johnny, that was another story and Roy knew Chet was the perfect one to handle him.

***

It was 1:00pm and Johnny's flight landed on time. He was walking toward his car when he saw someone sitting on it. Johnny was about to yell at him, when he recognized the graying, wavy hair former co-worker of his.

"Don't tell me you rigged the Rover and now have no way to get home 'cause that ol' wagon of yours died." Johnny extended his hand after he dropped his overnight bag on the cement.

"Wish it were so my friend. Man, this is difficult for me to say," Chet spoke

Johnny tightened up. It could only be bad news. Why would someone be here to meet him if it wasn't bad news? Roy. Johnny thought Roy had another heart attack. "What happened, Chet? Tell me now."

Chet stood up after leaning on the Rover. "Jenny's in the hospital. Roy's with her. She was attacked yesterday."

"Attacked? By whom? What happened?" Johnny's face reddened, he had his left arm on his hip and right hand running through his hair.

"Johnny, Roy just told me to meet you here and take you to St. Francis."

"St. Francis? Why not Rampart?" Johnny was fumbling for his keys as he asked the question.

"Don't know Johnny, but that's where I'm going to take you." He reached for the keys. "And don't argue with me, I'm driving your car. You are in no condition to drive."

Johnny didn't argue. He knew it must be serious if Chet was here to meet him. He handed the keys over and the two were on their way.

***

Johnny knew his way around St. Francis.   As a Paramedic instructor, he subbed classes here and also showed his trainees this hospital's setup, but it wasn't Rampart. After finding out what room Jenny was in, he and Chet made their way upstairs. They were stunned to see a guard outside her door. The guard asked who they were and said it was okay for Johnny to go inside once Johnny showed appropriate identification.

"Ah Chet, thanks for bringing me here. I better go in."

Chet patted Johnny on the back. "If there's anything you need, lemme know."

Before entering the room, Johnny wondered where Chet's car actually was. It didn't matter right now. Steeling himself for what he was about to see, Johnny took a deep breath and opened the door. Sitting in a chair, holding Jennifer's right hand was Roy. His head was leaning against the wall, as he dozed. Jennifer too was asleep. Johnny quietly walked over and looked at his wife. There were no visible bruises, but an IV was attached to her left hand. Roy must have sensed another person's presence and woke up. The two made eye contact. One's eyes held questions and the other's held sorrow.

Roy released Jenny's hand and stood up. He motioned for Johnny to walk to the back of the room.

"What happened, Roy?"

Roy paused knowing the next few words were going to be the most difficult he'd ever have to tell anyone. He placed his hand on Johnny's arm. "John, Jenny was assaulted last night. She was raped."

Johnny shook his head no. This couldn't be true. He was with his wife earlier in the day and Chris was supposed to be staying the night with her. And Kaitlin? Where was Kaitlin? Johnny paled.

Roy must have read his mind. "Kaitlin's with JoAnne. She spent the night and has no idea that anything is really wrong, except…" Roy trailed off. A couple of hours ago Roy thought the only problem was marital difficulties, but never this.

"What happened, Roy?"

"Johnny we don't know much except the…" Roy hesitated saying the word again. "The, eh, rape happened in your home between 8:00 and 10:00PM. Jenny was seen leaving 'The Suite' with a man and that's the last we know."

"But Chris was supposed to stay over."

"He spiked a fever and the hospital kept him another night."   Roy's shoulders slumped. This whole ordeal was taking its toll on him and his demeanor wasn't lost on Johnny.

"Roy, I'm here now. Why don't you get something to eat, or stretch your legs or something? You look like you could use it." Johnny almost had to push Roy out of the room, but it worked. Then Johnny looked at his wife sleeping there. He walked over and sat down on the chair that until recently Roy had used.

He bent down, closed his eyes and kissed her forehead. "I'm here Angel. Your ole' man is here and will take care of you. I love you Angel."

Maybe it was his voice, but something woke Jenny up and for the first time she didn't awake afraid. She opened her eyes and focused on Johnny's face.

"Hi Angel. Didn't mean to wake you." He tightly held her hand as he leaned over to be near her. He used his other hand to gently stroke her head. As Jenny became more aware of her surroundings, she tensed up and started crying.

"I'm sorry Johnny. I didn't mean for this to happen. It's all my fault. It's all my fault." That's about all she said before becoming emotional. Johnny climbed into the bed with her and held her.

"Jen, it's not your fault." He pulled her into his arms and she cried into his chest. Johnny started crying too. It was Poplar all over again.

*****

Chris hadn't said more than a half dozen words from the time Chet walked into his hospital room until he delivered the young paramedic to the DeSoto's home. Each time he tried to start up a conversation, Chet received nothing more than an 'I'd prefer to be left alone' look from the young man.

He wasn't sure what Chris had been told as to why he was the chauffeur instead of Roy, Johnny, or someone else from the DeSoto clan, and he sure as hell wasn't about to broach the subject. Even after all the years with the department, Chet still had trouble digesting certain things that happened to people, things that should never have happened to begin with.

Pulling into the driveway, Chet cut the engine of his old Station wagon then jumped out and ran around to the passenger side. "Let me help you, Chris," he said, holding out his hand.

Chris glanced up at Chet somewhat wary of the Irishman. Stories he was told about all the pranks the man pulled over the years entered his thoughts before he extended his hand to be helped from the car. "Just don't let me fall."

"Not to worry," Chet piped up. "I wouldn't do anything to someone who's already down on his luck."

"What's that supposed to mean?!" Chris snapped unsure of what Chet meant by his words. He wondered if word of his breakup from Megan reached everyone in the department by now. He knew how tongues wagged when someone was having a bad time of it with a woman. The person was a prime target for teasing, only he didn't really feel much like being the brunt of their ridicule. He loved Megan and part of him wished he could tell her.

"I'm talking about your injury, Kid," Chet exclaimed, "I'd never do anything to someone whose already been used like a punching bag."

"Oh…I'm sorry…I just thought…"

"It's okay, kid. Hell, Johnny had to be the most suspicious person I ever knew. I guess some of it's rubbed off on you," he replied. Taking Chris' good arm, Chet lead him up to the front door of the house. "You know Kid, you should really start thinking about hanging out with some chicks rather than that brother-in-law of yours. Gone are the days of the Boy Scouts and I think you've already achieved the purpose of the program. Besides…girls are much more fun," he added with a grin.

Chris remained emotionless, totally ignoring Chet's so called wisdom. Inside his mind screamed at him about what kind of fool he'd been. Hell he had the world by the ass, one fantastic looking, down to earth girl that didn't want to change who he was, and he blew it! With just a few simple words he, he tossed her out of his life.

With the door opening and JoAnne's appearance, Chet curbed his jabbering and looked at her, "As promised, JoAnne, here he is."

JoAnne glanced at Chet and smiled, then looked at her son and sighed. Although she saw him in the hospital every day since his injury, she couldn't quite get over the sight of seeing him bandaged up. This was her baby, her first born, and even though he was a grown man; she still didn't like to see him with boo boo's. She mended many of his boo boo's over his life time. With his daredevilish ways while growing up, he was always coming home sporting a skinned knee or elbow.

"Chris," she whispered near his ear as she carefully hugged him.

"I'm fine, Mom," he replied.

His tone wasn't convincing. Pulling back, she eyed him. Checking his face and then down his frame, she noticed the dark circles that outlined his eyes. Fatigue etched in his face and he looked thinner. She knew he lacked an appetite during his stay at 'Rampart Hotel', but no one seemed to be too concerned. What little he did eat of the meals he was served, and from the special treats others smuggled into him, Morton was satisfied he was getting enough nutrients

With a start, JoAnne realized her son was probably going through the same thing she was going through. Depression.

"Thanks Chet," JoAnne said smiling. "Roy and I appreciate everything you've done today."

"No problem, JoAnne, after all we are all family and families have to stick together."

JoAnne nodded. Chet's words rang true in every sense of the word. Every time, something went horribly wrong in a firefighter's family, other firefighters and their families were there to lend a helping hand and none of them expected anything in return. No one could ask for a greater bunch of friends.

"Well, if you'll excuse me, I have to be going."

JoAnne nodded understandingly. Chet's job was done and it was time for the 'real' family to take over.

"Let's get you into the house," JoAnne said holding Chris' arm and guiding him inside.

"Where's Dad?" Chris asked as he eased himself down into his father's easy chair.

"He's at the hospital," JoAnne replied.

Chris looked up at his mother, concern etched on his face. "Then why didn't he drive me home?"

"Your father isn't at Rampart, he's over at St. Francis."

"Is he working?" Chris knew there were times the instructors worked out of St. Francis, to familiarize their current students with the hospital layout and procedures.

"No," JoAnne replied.

"Then what's he doing there?" Chris was beginning to get an uneasy feeling about the situation. First the change in his chauffeur, then a change as to where he would be staying, and now his father was over at St. Francis and the man wasn't working. Before either he or JoAnne could discuss it any further, Kaitlin made her presence known.

"Uncle Chris," she squealed running toward one of the three most important men in her life.

"Kaitlin, be careful," JoAnne said sharply. "Remember, we already talked about Uncle Chris and the fact you have to be careful around him."

Kaitlin stopped in her tracks and shyly looked up at her grandmother. "I'm sorry, I forgot."

"Its okay, Katie Roo," Chris chimed in. "Come here," he added gesturing for her to climb up onto his knee. "See," he said. "If you just take it nice and slow, everything will be okay."

JoAnne smiled as she watched Kaitlin carefully climb up on Chris' lap and hug him. "You know Kaitlin, if you go get your story book, maybe you can convince Uncle Chris to read it to you."

"Will you read to me, Uncle Chris?" Kaitlin asked using her best puppy dog eyes.

"Of course I will, Katie Roo. Go get your book." Chris smiled as he watched the little girl bound up the stairs and then only a few seconds later reappeared with her book in hand. Again, being careful of his shoulder and arm, Chris helped the little one up on his knee and began to read to her.

With the story out of the way and then lunch, JoAnne managed to occupy Kaitlin with Mike Stoker's only granddaughter, Lilly. The young girl, a year older than Kaitlin had been dropped off by her mother after lunch. JoAnne had phoned and made the request while Chris read to Kaitlin.

Through the patio doors Chris watched the two girls as they began to unload the large Rubbermaid container filled with Barbies and all the accessories any little girl could ever want while JoAnne busied herself clearing the table and loading the dishwasher.

"You never did answer my question," Chris said glancing over at his mother.

Taking a deep breath, JoAnne turned around and faced her son, "And what question would that be?"

"What's dad doing over at St. Francis?" Chris kept his eyes focused on her. He could tell she was trying to find the appropriate words before answering him. "What's happened?"

"He's there with your sister."

His sister. This was the last thing he was expecting to hear, but then he suddenly remembered the change in plans as to where he would stay while he recuperated. What had happened to his sister?

Trying to keep the panic out of his voice, he replied, "Why is Jenny at St. Francis?"

JoAnne sighed, "She was raped last night at her house."

Raped. Chris' mind began to accelerate. 'I should have been there. If it hadn't have been for that damn fever, I would have been there. I could have protected her. Just like Jeff, I let someone else down.'

"I know what you're thinking, Chris. There's nothing you could have done…"

"I should have been there for her. I should have…"

"No Chris." JoAnne kneeled in front of her son and cupped his face in her hands. "There's nothing, and I mean nothing you could have done."

"But I should have…"

"No Chris. I don't want you blaming yourself."

"But…"

"No Chris."

Tears filled Chris' eyes. JoAnne leaned in and hugged him tight allowing her son to cry in front of her for the first time in years.

****

After having a good cry in his mother's arms, Chris reluctantly took some of his pain medication and went to bed. He didn't think he could sleep with all he had on his mind, but before he knew it, he was waking up from a long restful nap.

"How do you feel?" JoAnne asked looking up at her son as he walked into the living room.

"Better, I guess," he replied. Walking over to the window, he peered outside. Even though he had a good nap and it was a bright sunny day out, he still didn't feel very cheerful.

"You know Chris, sometimes it helps if you talk about what's troubling you."

Turning around, he looked at his mother. How many times had they told her the same thing since Ryan's death? He nodded.

"Chris, none of what's happened is your fault. Not Jeff's accident. Not your injuries. Not Jenny's rape…"

"How can you be so calm about it, Mom? For godsakes, she's your daughter."

JoAnne walked over to him. She lay a hand onto his good shoulder and looked into his eyes. "Precisely, Chris. I'm her mother and she needs me to be strong for her. She's gonna have a tough time, not only dealing with what's happened to her, but accepting it. She needs me, she needs you, her father, and Johnny to be there for her and if any of us gets upset in front of her, it's not gonna do her any good."

JoAnne smiled when she saw the look her son was giving her. "I know what you're thinking. That I'm not the same person I was only a couple weeks ago."

How could she know? He thought, but then he realized she was his mother and for as long as he could remember, she knew everything in regards to him, even what was on his mind.

"I had a difficult time after…Ryan's death. And I know I tried to push everyone away, but I also know that none of you would let me. It didn't matter how hard I tried to push you, your father, or even your sister out of my life. Each of you pushed back and gave me what I needed most, your love."

"Where's Kaitlin?"

"She and Lilly are still out on the deck playing. They are planning a wedding. I guess Ken proposed to Barbie." JoAnne kept her eyes focused on her son. She never missed one emotion that crossed his face from the moment he walked though her door earlier. By mentioning a doll's wedding, she hoped she could open another topic she needed to discuss with her son.

"Oh," Chris replied with very little enthusiasm. The thoughts of a wedding, even a doll's wedding troubled him.

"Megan is one very special woman."

"I know," he replied.

"Then why isn't she here?" JoAnne knew why, but she wanted to hear it from Chris.

"We broke up. End of discussion." Chris turned away from his mother and walked back over to the window.

"Really," JoAnne replied. "That's not what I heard."

"Oh, and what did you hear?"

JoAnne smiled. Just knowing that Chris was interested meant he still cared. In fact if she were a betting woman, she would bet he never stopped caring for Megan. "I heard you told her it was over."

"It is."

"Why?"

"I have my reasons. And I wish everyone…"

"What Chris? You wish everyone would stand by and watch you self-destruct? Well, I'm telling you, it's not gonna happen. You're not gonna get rid of me, your father, your sister, or Johnny. It won't happen, not in this life time."

Chris turned around and faced her with tears glimmering in his eyes. "Don't you get it? Doesn't anybody get it? I might not be here tomorrow. With the job I do, I might not be here tomorrow."

JoAnne heart broke for her son. She could see the pain etched on his face. Closing the distance between them, she wrapped her arms around him and let him cry.

****

"I don't know how to fix things," Chris murmured while he sniffled.

"What is it you'd like to fix?" JoAnne was certain she knew, but she also knew from her talks with her psychiatrist it was sometimes better for the patient to ask and then answer his or her own questions.

"I was angry when I talked with Megan. I wasn't thinking straight. All I could think about was how I couldn't help Jeff."

"Chris, you were trapped and injured too. Don't you see? There's no way you could have helped him."

"That's what Dad and Johnny told me."

"Then I think you should listen to your father and Johnny. The two of them didn't get as far as they did in the department for lack of knowledge."

"I know."

"Then why did you push Megan away."

"'Cause…'cause…I don't want…she…It could have been me…in Jeff's place…or worse…I couldn't…I don't want to…do that to her."

"Did it ever occur to you that maybe, just maybe, Megan could handle whatever your job dished out?"

Through tear filled eyes, Chris looked quizzically at his mother.

"Love is a very strong emotion. It has the power to heal or to destroy, but it depends on how you want to use that emotion as to what it will do for you in life. Honey, I've seen Megan around you and you around her. I don't think either of you will ever find the kind of happiness you've known these past few months with anyone else."

"But I pushed her away."

"Then I say you need to pull her back."

"But how?"

"Alexander Graham Bell. He created the ultimate instrument to make conversation."

"Thanks Mom."

"Anytime, Chris," she replied giving her son a hug.

*****

Jenny only stayed two nights in the hospital. She was then placed on medical leave of absence and Johnny decided to take some of his accrued time off. His wife and family needed him now. Due to Jenny's request, only Johnny or Roy visited her while she was in St Francis. Jenny knew that JoAnne was taking care of Kaitlin full time and was okay that she didn't visit. They spoke enough on the phone. Until Montgomery Bodine could be ruled out, Kaitlin was everyone's first priority.

Johnny wanted to take Jenny home alone, although Roy wanted to help. Johnny pulled rank and made Roy work. But Johnny promised if Jenny was up to it, they'd come by for dinner. Johnny knew Jenny couldn't be away from Kaitlin too long and Jenny needed to see Chris and get and give emotional support to her brother. It was best that Kaitlin stayed with the DeSotos as Johnny doubted Jenny would be up to dealing with the demands of their child.

The drive home from the hospital was a quiet one. Johnny watched Jenny from the corner of his eyes. The look of apprehension and borderline fear was evident. He pulled into the driveway and got out of the Rover. Jenny didn't move. Johnny walked around, opened the passenger door and helped her out.

Jenny didn't move from her spot. "Johnny, I'm afraid," her voice was trembling.

Johnny knew this was a possibility because the crime happened in their home, their sanctuary. He knew there was the possibility this would happen and he anticipated it. He walked up right next to her and took her hand. "Oh Angel, you're safe now. Nothing is going to happen to you here."

"Ever again?" Her blue eyes beckoned as if she was a young child asking for an infinite promise from an adult.

Johnny gathered her into his arms. At first he could feel her body tremble from the close contact, but then she soon settled into the embrace taking his comfort. He relaxed knowing she wasn't afraid of physical contact from him. The love and the trust they shared somehow survived the ordeal. "I wish I could say that nothing ever will happen here. Hell, I never thought a fire would happen here or the nail gun…" His thoughts trailed off as he remembered that at one time he thought his house was out to get him. He straightened up and his thoughts returned to the present. "Jen, come inside. It's safe. Come." He took her hand and led her inside.

Johnny opened the door and walked in, but Jenny didn't follow. He turned around and saw how ashen she looked. More and more memory fragments about that night returned. But she didn't dare tell anyone, especially Johnny that she knew who violated her. Knowing how excitable Johnny could get, she couldn't risk letting him know. Untold consequences could occur and she would never, ever take that risk. This was one secret she'd have to keep. The police dropped the case since she insisted she didn't remember and thus couldn't press charges.

Johnny put his keys down and returned to the entranceway his wife wouldn't cross. He stood next to her, held her hand and they walked inside together. Jenny was shocked to see the living room empty of furniture. Johnny saw the expression on her face and spoke up. "Marco, Chet, Mike and I got rid of the furniture. I donated it to the Salvation Army."

"They, the guys, know what happened?"

Johnny sighed. "Yes, they do. Remember Angel, I trusted and still trust them with my life. These guys are my family too…" Jenny stopped Johnny from talking by placing her fingers over his mouth.

"Johnny stop. No explanation is necessary. They're my family too." Jenny looked around the room and noticed an assortment of mismatched chairs in the living room, where the sofa and loveseat used to be. She pointed at two chairs. "Those are from Mom and Dad."

Johnny laughed. "Yeah, I figured you and I would go shopping for another sofa an' loveseat. We can go whenever you're up to it. As long as we get a deep oversized overstuffed couch I'm happy."

Jenny leaned into her husband and started crying. "Johnny, I didn't mean for any of this to happen."

"I know Jen. I know," he whispered.

Jenny decided she wanted a quiet evening with Johnny and declined to head over to her folks for dessert. It was her first night home and she wanted to settle in before returning to any semblance of a routine. Tomorrow they'd visit her mom, Chris and Kaitlin and bring both Kaitlin and Chris back with them. Tonight she wanted to feel safe in her home.

After a quiet dinner that Johnny prepared, well actually JoAnne cooked and Johnny reheated, Jenny retreated to the bathroom to take a long relaxing shower while Johnny closed up the house for the night.

Johnny was leaning back on the bed reading a John Grisham novel with the television playing in the background when Jenny emerged from the bathroom wearing her robe and her hair wrapped in a towel. Johnny looked up and watched her over the brim of his reading glasses as she walked over to the dresser. She lingered for several long seconds before opening one of the drawers and pulling out some clothing. When she turned around her body jerked when she saw her husband staring at her. Clutching the clothes to her chest, she quickly disappeared back into the bathroom.

Johnny remained silent as he watched his wife and observed her movements. He was taken aback by her actions. She never showed modesty like this before in front of him. He understood she experienced a horrible personal invasion, but it didn't prevent him from being extremely sensitive to her shying away from him. Once the bathroom door was shut, he closed his eyes and pushed the lump that suddenly formed in his throat back down. He knew he couldn't allow Jenny to see how shaken he was.

As he waited for Jenny to return to their bedroom, he remembered the course that all the paramedic's had to take dealing with treating people who were victims of violent crimes. At the time it never occurred to him when he took the course and then taught it that he'd be using the learned skills with someone in his own family.

Johnny was about ready to go check on his wife when she emerged from the bathroom. She stopped and held her husband's gaze for a several long seconds before she averted her stare. Then quickly she hurried to her side of the bed, discarding her robe on the cedar chest as she passed by it.

He was certain she could feel his eyes on her as she swiftly moved across the room. As he watched her, he sensed a hint of apprehension, but he remained silent and waited to see what she'd say or do.

He silently sighed when she settled into the bed next to him. Removing his glasses and setting them and his book aside, he turned to her. He momentarily lost track of his thoughts when the fragrance from her shampoo wafted in the air around them. Inhaling deeply, he breathed in her scent as memories of their lovemaking filled his mind. He used all his self control to keep from reaching out to embrace her, to make love to her. He knew deep down it would take time for them to resume this part of their life. She was his Angel and he would do everything to protect her, even from him.

"Did you take the sleeping pill Brackett gave you?"

"No."

"Are you sure that's a wise decision." Johnny thought it wasn't but didn't want to pressure her.

"I'm okay. I'm with you." Jenny snuggled in closer to Johnny. He took the hint and got under the blanket with her. She cuddled under his right arm as he turned off the light.

Johnny wrapped his right arm around her and lightly stroked her arm. Within minutes he could tell that she was sleeping, at peace for the moment. Satisfied his Angel was okay, he relaxed enough to fall asleep.

Johnny wasn't sure what was happening. One moment he was in a deep sleep and the next moment he could hear someone screaming in the dark recesses of his mind. When he shifted in bed his arm came in contact with something warm and solid. Suddenly he felt a hard thud against him then a sharp pain exploded throughout his body.

"GET OFF ME. YOU ARE NOT GOING TO DO THIS TO ME AGAIN!'' Jenny screamed.

His mind began to register the shill screams that echoed around him and instantly he was awake. He realized Jenny was in trouble and she needed him.

She kicked out and threw her arms around wildly. "GET OFF ME. GET OFF ME," she screamed.

He grasped her arms and spoke softly to her. "Jen, it's me, Johnny. You're okay. You're home."

"I'M NOT GIVING IN. GET OFF OF ME. JAKE STOP. DON'T DO THIS TO ME JAKE. PLEASE STOP. DON'T DO THIS TO ME."

Hearing the name of a man momentarily stunned Johnny. His mind was a whirlwind. His grip loosened and Jenny punched out. Her right fist connected with his face. His face twisted from the pain. He didn't want to cause Jenny any more mental anguish than she was already reliving, but he knew he had to be tough.

Even though he was in pain and somewhat dazed, she was no match for his physical strength. He grabbed her by the shoulders and shook her. "JENNY FOR GOD'S SAKE. IT'S JOHNNY. YOUR HUSBAND. YOUR OLE MAN." He shook her and finally his words seeped into her sleep induced mind. She woke up.

Her breathing came in ragged breaths and she looked around the room wildly. She hiccuped and sniffed as she looked up into her husbands face.

"It's okay Jenny. It's okay Angel. You're gonna be okay."

Johnny could see she was beginning to relax and settle down so he released his grip on her then reached over and turned on a bedside lamp.

"What happened?" she croaked.

"I guess you were having a dream." Johnny reached up to his left cheekbone. The area tingled and he was certain he could feel it swelling.

"Did I do that?" she asked tentatively reaching out to touch the bruise that was forming.

"Yup. You're two for two. First Roy and now me." Johnny tried to make it into a joke but it didn't work.

Jenny looked away. She got up from the bed and hurried to the bathroom.

Confusion, concern, and uneasiness filled Johnny's being. He didn't know why she suddenly became silent and fled the room until she returned with a cold wet facecloth. "Here, put this on your face."

"Thanks," he muttered taking the cloth and pressing against his flesh.

"What did I say?"

"I don't really know. You woke me up."

Jenny sat on the edge of the bed and took the cloth away from Johnny's face. Her nursing instincts took over and she examined the bruise. She noticed a small scratch near the center. Unconsciously she glanced down at her hand and looked at her engagement ring and wedding band. With her thumb she moved the rings around on her finger.

"I know you didn't mean to hit me," Johnny said.

Looking up, she let her gaze fall back on the bruise. "It shouldn't have happened."

"It's okay Angel." He could see her eyes begin to fill with tears. Brokenhearted for her distress, he cupped her chin and looked into her eyes. Suddenly all the words she screamed out echoed inside his head. As much as he too wanted to forget, he also needed to know.

"Jen, you mentioned a name. You said Jake."

Jenny froze. She closed her eyes. She wanted it all to go away. She didn't want to cause her husband any more heart-rending pain than he'd already endured.

"Is that the name of the man who raped you?"

Keeping her eyes closed she dropped her head and rested her chin on her chest.   "Yes. It was Jake Forrestor." The tears she tried so hard to keep in began to fall.

The room grew deathly quiet, like the deep dark recesses of the hospital's basement after midnight. She could feel the tension build around them. She waited, but Johnny didn't speak.

"Johnny I don't want you to do anything about this. I told you I'm not going to press charges." She reached out and grasped his hands, pleading that her husband not do anything violent.

"Please." She looked up into his face and pleaded with him. She knew how hot-tempered he could be at times. "Please I beg you, don't do anything."

Although he was seething inside, he had to stay in control, at least for now. "Now what makes you think I'm gonna do anything." His voice was calm and in control, a trick he learned many years ago as a paramedic.

"I never meant for it to happen."

"I know that Angel." Deep down Johnny believed her. He knew she was his, heart and soul.

Taking the wet cloth from Jenny's hand, he got up and went to the bathroom. He poured a glass of water, took one of the sleeping pills, and returned to the bed. "Here, take this. That's why Brackett wanted you to have it." He forced a smile on his face.

She looked up at his brown eyes but couldn't detect any emotions beyond his smile. That scared her even more than the ranting Johnny she had seen from time to time. However, she took the pill and put the glass down. Johnny got back into bed and turned off the light. Jenny nestled into the crook of his arm. Within time, she fell asleep, but Johnny remained awake, plotting his next course of action. His heart skipped several beats as the anger grew inside him.

***
Jenny had a difficult time waking up. She looked at her clock by the bedside and saw it was 11:00AM. The spot in the bed where Johnny slept was empty and cool. Then she remembered what she told Johnny and panic set it. "Maybe he just went to pick up Kaitlin." She thought. She picked up the phone and then placed it down. She had made Johnny promise not to do anything. As much as she wanted to believe he wouldn't, she knew him.

***

Johnny was a man on a mission. He walked into Rampart Hospital looking for Jake Forrestor. As luck would have it, Johnny didn't find him and he wasn't about to go barging into treatment areas looking for the doctor.

"Johnny, what are you doing here?" Roy asked as he unrepentantly ran into him.

Johnny was caught off guard. "I…um…I'm looking for someone."

Roy knew Johnny well enough to know there was more to his words than what he was saying. But would it be like pulling teeth to get the man to talk? Roy never knew. One time Johnny's loose lips could sink ships and other times a grenade couldn't open him up. "How's Jenny? Is that how you got that black eye?"

Johnny flinched as he touched the spot where Jenny had punched him. "Yeah, she got me good last night."

"Is she okay?"

The question was innocent enough, but Johnny's reaction told Roy that the answer wasn't going to be good. Johnny shook his head. As much as it was a private matter between husband and wife, Roy was still his best friend and his father-in-law, although admitting that made him want to chuckle.

Roy saw the somber expression on John's face and became concerned. "Let's grab some coffee."

Johnny agreed, and the two went to the cafeteria.

Roy directed John to a table then he went to grab two coffees and some donuts.

"I thought you were on a diet?" Johnny said surveying the food.

Roy smiled. "I am on a diet, but today I want a donut. I wonder if kids today eat these like we used to."

"I dunno. I think they eat better than we did."

The silence was disturbing as the two ate and drank. Roy couldn't remember a time when they stopped for coffee that Johnny wasn't running off at the mouth, drinking the hot liquid. He was sure something was going on and he only hoped Johnny would spill the beans before he had to do something to hurt him.

Johnny grabbed a second donut. He had the pastry almost to his mouth when he stopped and stared across the room. Putting the donut back on the plate, he looked at Roy knowing the next thing he was going to say was difficult, "Jenny told me who raped her."

Roy's eyes widened. Theories were discussed regarding the attack, but Roy didn't expect that Jenny knew who assaulted her. Suddenly he no longer had a taste for donuts, his stomach soured. "Who was it?"

"Jenny was having a nightmare last night. When I tried to wake her, she punched out, hence the black eye." Johnny pointed to his eye. "She said it was Jake Forrestor."

"Oh my God," Roy whispered. "That's who the other people said Jenny left with." Roy's face reddened with anger. Hatred, the kind he hadn't felt in years washed over his essence.

"He even drove her home one night when she was drunk," Johnny said his tone expressionless. "I'm going to get that bastard." Johnny clenched his hand and hit the table which knocked one of the empty Styrofoam coffee cups over.

Roy didn't know what to say. He was a peaceful man, but he understood the raw emotions Johnny felt. On some level he felt the same way too, as his daughter was the one attacked. "Johnny…"

"Don't say it Roy," he interrupted. Lowering his voice he added, "I know all the reasons why I shouldn't, including losing my job here at Rampart, but Roy, she's my wife."

"I know she's your wife, but she's also my daughter," he replied angrily, his face reddening with emotion.

Johnny eyes darkened and he growled, "Believe me I know. I've never forgotten that little detail."

Roy rubbed his hand over his face and nodded. He figured he better stop talking about what Jenny's role was in their lives. Nothing good ever came from talking about it. Only resentment and a constant wedge that dangled over them that threatened to rip apart an old friendship. They had come a long way since the day Jenny announced her pregnancy with Kaitlin. They each suffered pain that many people would never know. And he didn't want to go back and relive any of it or evoke the tension he alone had placed between them from time to time.

"I want to put an end to her pain."

"Her pain or yours?"

Johnny looked at his friend. "Don't Roy," Johnny replied through gritted teeth.

"I'm not gonna sit by and watch you destroy your life and Jenny's too."

"Roy…I can't explain it…I…"

"What do you mean you can't explain it? She's my daughter. I think I have an idea of how you feel." In disgust, Roy pushed the tray with the food away from him.

The stress that seemed to be building was halted when a group of people entered the cafeteria laughing. Both men looked up and glanced over at the group. Surrounded by several nurses was Jake Forrestor and judging by his actions he was enjoying their attention. Johnny started to get up, but Roy held him down. "Easy Junior and that's an order."

Johnny looked back at Roy somewhat confused. They were both of the same rank and Johnny was off duty. Then he realized Roy said that to break his attention. "Roy."

"Not here, Junior."

Johnny heard Roy but ignored him and looked back at the group.

At the same time Jake looked around and made eye contact with Johnny. The smirk that Forrestor had pasted on his face was enough for Gage to get up and approach the man.

"Dammit," Roy cursed. He immediately got up and hurried to Johnny's side. He was determined to keep his son-in-law in line.

"You have something you want to say to me Gage?" Forrestor asked in an arrogant way.

"You ever step near my wife again, I'll kill you."

The cafeteria suddenly became quiet as everyone watched and listened to the confrontation.

Jake laughed snidely. "You ever think that maybe Jennifer wanted it? With your reputation of being a ladies man, Gage, why can't Jenny enjoy herself too?   I'm sure she knows your history with the women and maybe she wanted to explore some real men too. And she enjoyed it, you bet she did and she asked for it again and again." He was enjoying the advantage he had. He watched as Johnny's face reddened in anger.

"You're old Gage. You are too old for a sensual woman like her. Couldn't keep it up enough for her, could you, old man?"

Roy saw Johnny's posturing and knew Gage was on the cliff about to fall off. "Enough," Roy bellowed.

Jake ignored the white haired man and continued his rant. "Why she married you I haven't the faintest idea. It's certain you can't meet her needs. That's why she looked for someone like me. And if I did something wrong, how come no charges were pressed?"

"I said enough," Roy stepped forward. "Let's get out of here Johnny. He's not worth it." Roy's eyes reamed into Jake's with a threat only Jake could perceive.

"I don't know which one of you is more pathetic, Gage for marrying your daughter or you for allowing her to do so." Forrestor said bluntly, his own steely gaze burrowing into Roy's.

Roy gave his head a little shake. He had dealt with many people over his lifetime, but he had never run into anyone as complacent as Forrestor. It took all of his resolve to keep from pulling his arm back and taking a swing at the arrogant doctor. He had never been a violent man and he knew he had to maintain some sort of control, not just for him, but for Johnny and for his entire family.

Glancing back at his best friend, Roy could see Johnny was nearing the point of no return. If they heard just one more piece of filth escaping from Forrestor's mouth, he was certain Johnny would explode and Roy didn't know if he'd have it in him to keep Johnny from tearing the doctor apart. It was time for both of them to walk away. They both needed time to cool down. And they both needed time to think. Despite how they both felt, Roy knew they had to keep Jennifer's interests in mind. She didn't need to be degraded any more than she already had been.

Johnny stared at Forrestor as the smug doctor spoke. Each spiteful word fueled his anger. He had gone beyond the small blaze that ignited inside to a raging five alarm inferno.

"Johnny!" Roy's voice was firm and like in the past, Johnny quickly focused on his old friend. "It's time to get out of here."

Johnny nodded then looked back at Forrestor, his gaze held daggers. "If you ever go near Jenny again, you'll regret the day you were ever born. That is not a threat, it's a promise I'm more than willing to deliver on." With that he walked away from Roy, from Forrestor, and from all the nosy onlookers.

Before Roy walked away he looked back at Forrestor. Leaning in, he softly said, "You better heed Johnny's words 'cause I guarantee they will come true." With that, Roy turned and walked away from the doctor and away from the soft murmurs that were beginning to rise from those who had lingered and watched the scene unfold.

"Is that a threat DeSoto?" Forrestor yelled. His only answer was the door to the cafeteria swinging closed. Suddenly he became aware of the crowd that had gathered in the cafeteria and watched the altercation. Irate, he tossed his tray aside and hustled out of the room.

Roy went to an isolated part of the hospital to regain his composure. The words Forrestor said echoed in his mind and hurt him. But if these words were disturbing to him, what was the damage to Gage? That thought brought Roy out from the fog he was in and he decided to find Johnny.

After ten minutes, Roy checked the parking lot and saw a lone occupant sitting in the Rover. Johnny made no effort to conceal himself. When Roy looked in he was disturbed by what he saw. Dried tears streaked Johnny's face.

Although he wasn't invited, he opened the door and sat down next to his old partner, his friend.

"What if he's right Roy? What if I'm too old for Jenny?"

"That's nonsense Johnny. Jenny loves you and only you. She has since she was a kid." Roy sat back and blew out a breath. For the first time since the day Jenny's pregnancy was announced, Roy had finally admitted to himself that Jenny was in love with Johnny. He also knew the reverse was true too. The pain he saw in Johnny's face wasn't bogus, it was the real thing. God he'd been such a fool.

"But that could be fantasy, Roy. And now she sees the reality. Maybe I'm not what she wants."

"Johnny. Jenny is not foolish."

Johnny sighed. "Oh Roy, sometimes she is. I know how you and Jo raised her. You protected her from the sorrow in the world. Sometimes she is so naïve and inexperienced with life."

Roy understood what Johnny said. There were times he too wished Jenny would have dated more, but she made her choice and Roy knew now that the choice she made was the right one. Roy shrugged his shoulders. "We did what we thought was right."

Johnny wondered if Roy thought he was critiquing how Jennifer was raised, which he really wasn't. He would have given anything to have loving parents, the way Roy and JoAnne demonstrated all these years. "Roy, I'm not puttin' you down. It's just…" He couldn't complete his thoughts.

"I know Johnny. I too wish Jenny had fooled around more."

Johnny looked over at Roy. He was a bit flabbergasted by Roy's words. "As much as I had my doubts over your marriage to my little one, I can see how you two love one another. You are both good together. And Kaitlin... What can I say about her? I was wrong about opposing your life together. It just took me a long time to see the reality of what you both mean to each other."

One would think those words would ease Johnny's concerns but they didn't.

"What if I don't satisfy her, Roy?" That was such a difficult statement for Johnny to ask. Never in all the time had they known each other had they talked about the intimate side of a relationship with a woman. It seemed taboo all those years ago and even today it still seemed taboo. Sex wasn't something men discussed, not the serious stuff anyway. "What if I am too old for her and it took her these few years she's been with me for her to see it?"

As much as Roy wanted this conversation to be over, he knew he had to settle Johnny's mind before the man drove himself nuts with worry. "Johnny, you're being too hard on yourself. I can't see Jennifer cheating on you."

"Then why didn't she tell the police? Why didn't she want to press charges?"

"I don't know Johnny. Only Jen does. Did you ask her?"

Johnny shook his head no and hung it in despair.

"Maybe she was embarrassed. Maybe she was drunk. She was very groggy when I came by the house. Maybe…"

"Groggy?" he raised his head.

"Yeah confused."

"Maybe she was drugged. Did they do a toxicology screen?"

"No, Brackett didn't and by the time blood work was done, she already had diazepam in her system. That would mask anything found."

"Dammit," Johnny shouted. He turned away from Roy and stared out the window. "If that bastard drugged her, I'll tear him apart." Johnny stared at Roy and for a brief moment pure hatred was visible in Johnny's face.

Roy looked at his watch and realized he had to return to work, as much as he wished he didn't. "I gotta go Johnny."

Johnny nodded. "I understand. I'm okay now. You see?" Johnny halfheartedly smiled, trying to convince his best friend he was okay, that the emotions of several seconds ago were gone.

Roy opened the car door and got out. He stuck his head inside the window. "Do I have to worry about you, Junior?"

Johnny smiled albeit a small one. "No. I'm gonna go by your home and pick up my daughter and Chris. Then I'm heading home. I'm sure Jenny must be sick with worry by now."

Roy nodded. Releasing his hold on the truck, he stood back and waited till Johnny turned over the engine and drove away before he walked back toward the hospital. As he was about to enter the building, an eerie feeling came over him. Abruptly he turned back and looked toward the exit of the parking lot. An overwhelming sense of dread filled his being. Johnny had turned left when he pulled out onto the street instead of turning right.

"Damn it, Johnny. Where in hell are you going? Home is right, not left."

to be continued...

NOTE: Excerpts from Franklin and The Hero based on characters created by Paulette Bourgeois and Brenda Clark.

feeback for Betty & Kajakat

kajakat's coments - thanks to Pattie for helping us with the medical points and other helpful hints. Thanks to the JG Pen Guins (you know who you are) for threatening me if I didn't finish this story. Thanks to all the readers of the series for your words of encouragement. Finally, thanks to Betty for being my writing partner for close to two years now.

Betty's comments - Once again, I enjoyed sharing the task of creating a part of this series with Janet. Once again we have shown multiple sides of the characters. This time we have delved deeper into the younger generation and shown the similarities they have with the older crew. Thank you Janet, I enjoyed working on this story with you. I want to thank Icecat and Pattie for their hard work beta reading this part for us.

return to main menu