secret admirer

SECRET ADMIRER
by Linda

Do to a series of wrong turns and a friend's bad directions, Chet found himself in one of the worst parts of the city.

"Sure, try to do a guy a favor and now I'm lost."

Looking around he could see all kinds of nightlife, some of it downright scary. Stopping for a red light, he noticed someone standing by a car. The way she moved and her attire meant one thing- lady of the evening-to put it nicely. Chet watched as she moved away from the car. Evidently the guy didn't want to pay her price. When the light changed he started forward. It was then he got a much better look at the hooker. He almost slammed on the brakes.

"No, it can't be, why would she, nah man, no way," he shook off the idea. But, going slowly forward to get a better look he still couldn't be sure. So, he drove around the block to take another look. He nervously, scratched at his mustache. Coming around the block Chet got a much better look at this 'lady of the evening'. He nearly choked when he swallowed his gum. There she was. It was her. He slowly pulled up to the curb.

Well, here I go again, she thought, God do I hate this.

"Hiya, sweet-Chet," she squeaked when she saw who was driving the truck. Though embarrassed to be seen this way, she regained her composure. " What the hell are you doing here?"

"I got a better question. What the hell are you doing, Sarah Gage?" Chet was looking Sarah up and down. It suddenly hit him just how many curves her form had.

Talking into space Sarah said, "No problem guys, just a concerned friend. Don't leave your positions." Looking at Chet she continued, " Chet, I'm doing a special assignment. Now get outta here." Sarah said with mild annoyance. Annoyed because she knew he was checking her out.

Chet couldn't shake the uneasiness about seeing his friend's sister dressed like a hooker. "Does Johnny know about this? He couldn't. He'd be going nuts."

Sarah looked around. The other "ladies" were watching her. Can't blow my cover. "That sounds about right," she said loudly. Then she got in Chet's truck. "Now drive around the corner."

Watching Sarah climb into the truck he couldn't miss how mini her skirt was. What a set of legs. Chet drove around the corner.

Talking to someone Sarah said, "Guys, I'm going off the air for a minute. Nothing is wrong." With that she reached into her skimpy shirt and pulled out a wire. Chet just sat opened mouthed.

"Chet, listen, you can't tell Johnny. He'd be beside himself with worry." Seeing the look on his face, she couldn't be sure she had been heard. "Chet, did you hear me?" Sarah put her hand on his shoulder. A shiver went up and down his back. "Close your mouth Chet, it's not becoming of your reputation."

"Sarah, why are you doing this? You're not an LA cop." His concern was quite apparent.

"Chet, lady cops are hard to come by, and well, I fit the profile."

"Profile, what profile?" Something horrible started creeping into Chet's mind. In recent weeks the news was littered with stories about missing and murdered women who worked the strip. "My God, you're bait for that nut case whose been killing those hookers." His voice was several octaves higher than usual.

She took a deep breath and reached for his hand. "Chet, you can't tell anyone because 'he' could be anyone."

Chet shook his head, "Why you?"

"Like I said, I fit the profile of the murdered women. Most were my age and looked, how did my sergeant put it, exotic." Sarah flipped the hair on her long wig. Her attempt to lighten the mood fell flat.

"Who were you talking to when you got in my car?"

Sarah smiled; he melted. "Chet, I'm well protected. I wear a wire, and there are quite a few undercover officers just hanging around watching every move I make." Why did she feel like she was trying to convince herself. He's really worried about me! She thought.

Chet knew he should make some kind of crack but something stopped him. She looked so different than all the other times he'd seen her. Sarah always wore jeans and a t-shirt or her uniform. But tonight every curve of her form was there for the world to see. He never saw Sarah wear makeup before. She didn't have a lot on but it was done in a way that accented her deep brown eyes and soft lips. For the first time in all the months he knew Sarah Gage, Chet realized just how beautiful she was. But just as quickly he remembered hearing how savagely the prostitutes had been raped and killed. Seasoned paramedics who responded to one of the crime scenes had told him about the carnage. If she wasn't careful, it could be Sarah. He felt something against his cheek.

Seeing Chet lost in thought Sarah reached up and touched his cheek. "Chet, you alright?"

Shaken from his thoughts by her touch. "Sarah, you should tell Johnny."

"Chet, that would be a huge mistake. He thinks I've been working overtime." Then wagging her finger in his face. "And that's the way it is going to be, Chester B. Kelly, or I'll tell Johnny about a little incident you had last week with the LAPD."

That smile of hers. "What, you wouldn't?" His normal demeanor returned.

Placing her thumb under his chin she leaned over and said, "Try me big boy." And kissed his cheek. Why did I do that? "Gotta go." She reattached her wire. As she got out of the truck, she turned, "Thanks for the good time Chet." Sarah winked at him and went back to work, shifting her skirt as she got out of the car.

As Sarah walked away Chet noticed how graceful she moved even in the high-heeled go-go boots. Chet sat there a minute or so, then went on his way. But his uneasiness stayed with him.

***

The next morning he reported to work still feeling that Johnny needed to know about Sarah's extra duties. Chet changed and went into the dayroom.

"Yeah, they found another one." Chet heard Mike say as he poured himself a cup of coffee.

"A friend of mine is with the LAPD. He said she was cut up something awful," Marco shook remembering what his friend had told him.

Chet stood at the counter. All ideas about coffee were replaced by images of Sarah possibly being the victim.

"Good morning, good morning," Johnny came racing into the dayroom with a much calmer Roy following behind. "Hey, Chet, can I have a cup? Chet."
Johnny noticed how pale Chet was. "Hey you okay?"

Chet shook his head to clear the images from his mind. "I'm fine John, thanks." With that Chet walked off leaving a very confused Gage.

Looking to Mike and Marco, "What's the matter with Chet?"

Mike and Marco shrugged their shoulders. "We were talking about how they found another one of those hookers killed and he kinda froze," Mike said.

"Joanne was reading about that this morning." Roy stated as he poured coffee for himself and his partner.

"Man, those poor women. Some of the cops I know said the guy has been getting even more brutal." Johnny sipped his coffee. "Glad Sarah hasn't had to deal with that."

Chet was in the latrine splashing cold water on his face. I can't do this. I gotta talk to Roy. If something happens to Sarah and Johnny finds out that I knew and didn't do anything… he thought. When this shift is over I'll go over to Roy's and see what he thinks I should do.

The klaxons sounded calling the engine to a small brush fire.

"Johnny, has Sarah mentioned anything about this case?" Roy asked.

Johnny sat down with his coffee next to Roy. He looked into the dark amber liquid. "No, she hasn't but then again she hasn't been around much." The annoyance in John's voice was clear. Johnny shrugged his shoulders.   "Seems like we're two ships who pass in the night." Not sure how to continue Johnny took a deep breath. "I think she has a boyfriend."

Roy smiled broadly. "Hey, that's great." Roy didn't see a smile on Johnny's face. "Isn't great?"

Johnny just continued to stare into his coffee. "Sometimes I'll call home late. You know after she works second shift and she's not home." Johnny got up and put his mug into the sink. Then spun around, "Where could she be that late?"

Roy didn't know what to make of Johnny's outburst, then it hit him. "Johnny she's a grown woman, it's her choice."

"But why hasn't she brought him to meet me. Come on, if she's that 'involved' shouldn't she let me meet him?" Johnny's voice was growing louder and angrier. "And frankly I don't care how old she is, staying out to all hours of the morning doing God knows what with God knows who. It's gonna drive me crazy."

Roy rose and went over to where Johnny was standing and took him by the shoulders. "Johnny she's a grown woman and has the right to spend her life the way she wants."

"Grown woman! She's not even 21 yet!" Johnny shot Roy a disheartening look. "I'll use that same line on you when Jenny stays out all night." With that Johnny stormed off. Roy just stood there and felt like he had been hit in the stomach. He knew that Johnny was upset, but his comment was uncalled for.

When the engine crew returned to quarters it became painfully obvious that Roy and Johnny had a falling out. Neither man talked to each other except when necessary. Roy truly felt at a loss as what to say to ease Johnny's mind. Everytime he thought he had the answer he thought about his daughter, and immediately realized his answer wouldn't help.

So, the rest of the shift passed heavy with tension. Roy, Johnny and Chet each battling their own little demons.

***

Sarah once again donned her skimpy mini skirt and cut off shirt. The white go-go boots were murder on her feet but completed the outfit. She brushed out the long black wig and put it on. Looking in the mirror she touched up her make-up. Sarah checked herself out. "Yep, I look like a tramp." With that she put on the long all weather coat, met her partner and went to walk the street looking for a killer, a killer who had already spotted her.

The car ride to tonight's location wasn't that far.

Tim Coughlin, Sarah's partner from the LAPD, could tell Sarah was less than thrilled with this assignment. "What's the matter kid? Bored?" Tim was only thirty and had been on the force five years. When told about this assignment he thought it was a great opportunity to get recognized by the higher ups.

"Bored with dressing like a hooker, gee I wonder why," Sarah answered sarcastically. "Just when I'm getting some real respect for what I do, I have to dress like this. I know this is important but, man, it just ticks me off."

Tim felt for Sarah. The first night of this assignment Sarah didn't have an overcoat and when the other officers saw her in the hooker outfit they whistled and cat called. Tim had made it clear in the locker room the next day if they did it again they'd have him to deal with. Tim had also brought Sarah the overcoat so she wouldn't have to be so "exposed" until they got to the stake out.

The car pulled into the ramp garage. Other teams of officers were already there. The lieutenant gave out the street assignments and reminded everyone to stay alert and never let your "hooker" out of your sight.

Sarah and Tim were assigned to the same street she had seen Chet on the night before.

"Okay, just like the other nights, Sarah. Walk and keep your eyes open. Don't get to close to the cars," Tim said like he did every other night.

"Tim, we gotta get you better dialog," Sarah removed the overcoat. "Damn it's cold tonight. How do these girls do this?" Sarah shivered then started down the street. Tim checked in with other units in the area to make sure Sarah was covered.

Hours went by and nothing. Around four in the morning a van caught Tim's eye. He'd seen it go around the block twice. This time it slowed and came up behind Sarah. Because he was across the street he lost sight of her. Suddenly, he could hear a muffled scream and the sounds of a struggle coming from her wire. Then nothing. "Shit, oh shit," fumbling for his HT, "Team one officer in trouble." Tim took off across the street but the van was pulling away. "Blue van, they grabbed Sarah, She's in the van. STOP THAT VAN," he yelled into the HT.    An unmarked car pulled up along side Tim.

"Get in," the lieutenant called. Tim dove into the car.

"They pulled her in. Oh, God," Tim's despair at what could be happening in that van could be heard in his voice. "There it is," Tim spotted the van.

The lieutenant sped up and gave the van a bump. Tim leaned out the window and showed his badge.

Inside the van, Sarah was struggling with a young man. "Come on baby, just give us a freebee." He touched her and she fought harder. Sarah didn't have time for fear; she had to stay in control. But a blow followed every touch she warded off. First to her face and then to her chest.

The van lurched forward. The driver looked out at the side mirror and noticed a guy with a badge in the car behind him. "Damn, it's the cops. Dump the whore."

Sarah heard the order. But another blow to her face and she was dazed. The young man pulled open the side van door, and rolled Sarah out of the van. They sped off leaving Sarah behind.

"Jesus Christ, watch out. Don't hit her." Tim watched as Sarah's body rolled into the on coming traffic. The lieutenant spun the car to a stop. Thus preventing anyone from hitting Sarah.

"We need paramedics and an ambulance, officer down, Cook and Highland." Tim was out of the car before the lieutenant made the call.

Sarah lay in the road not moving. She was on her side. Tim fought his stomach as he gently moved the fake hair from Sarah's face. He could see bruises forming. He felt her neck and found a pulse. At his touch Sarah let out a slight moan.

Placing his hand on her forehead, "Sarah, it's gonna be okay. I'm here, just lie still."

"Tim," Sarah's eyes fluttered open. Looking around she could see Tim watching her and the lieutenant standing over her. "I'm okay, just banged up a little. Did you get them?" Her voice was weak, yet strong. She made no move to get up.

Tim shook his head, "No, we were more worried about you."

Sarah tried to sit up.   Tim stopped her then said, "None of that. You don't move until the paramedics check you out."

Sarah's eyes got very large. "Tim, it won't be Johnny's station right?"

"No kid, this isn't his territory. Want me to call him?'

"Tim don't call him; he's on duty and I don't want him worrying for nothing." With that she closed her eyes and listened to the approaching sirens.

Tim was concerned when she closed her eyes. "Hey you still with me, Sarah."

"Yea, I'm with you, just resting my eyes."

"Come on Sarah, show off all those paramedic skills. Tell me what hurts?" Tim was trying to keep her awake.

Sarah knew she should stay awake. But being a patient is a lot different than being the paramedic.

"For someone who graduated top off her class, I shouldn't have to tell you to keep talking," Tim said trying to egg her on.

Still keeping her eyes shut she smiled. "Tim just remember I took on Brackett, so you wouldn't stand a chance against me." She laughed slightly and grimaced.

"Sarah, please, no jokes, what are you feeling?"

Sarah swallowed hard. " Head's pounding-concussion for sure. I'm pretty sure I've bruised some ribs on my right side. Abdomen is sore, but not too bad."

Tim wished he could see her face better. "Sarah could I roll you onto your back?"

"NO!"

"Hey calm down." Tim was not expecting such a fervent reaction. "Sarah, what aren't you telling me? Is something else wrong?" His concern was mounting.

Sarah wasn't sure why her legs felt numb but she was taking no chances. "Tim my legs feel a little numb."   Taking a shallow breath. "Could be a pinched nerve, but I um don't …it's probably nothing."

He saw her face contort in pain again. Tim could hear the sounds of sirens approaching. "Here they are now Sarah. You're one hell of a cop."

"Shut up and get those punks will ya."

Sarah's assessment of her condition was accurate. When the gurney was wheeled into treatment one, Dr. Brackett and Dixie were shocked to see it was Sarah.

Sarah saw the shocked and concerned looks on their faces. "Hey, doc fancy meeting you here. Johnny talks so highly of this place I figured I'd check out the accommodations." She closed her eyes.

"Sarah, stay with us. Are your legs still numb?" Brackett asked checking her reflexes.

"Not as bad." Sarah winced when Brackett checked her pupil responses. Sarah began to diagnose her own condition; " pinched nerve is all, resolving itself pretty quickly."

Brackett stood up straight and placed his hands on his hips. "Leave the diagnosing to the doctors."

Sarah smiled with her eyes closed. "You're still ticked I diagnosed that patient faster than you when I was in training."

Dixie covered her smile with her hand. All Sarah said was true; a paramedic trainee out doctored Kel Brackett. The news had spread like wild fire through the hospital, fire department, and the sheriff department.

"Hey doc," Tim poked his head in the door. "How's she doin'?"

"Who are you?"

"Tim Coughlin, Sarah's partner."

"Wait outside, I want to talk to you." Brackett began to examine Sarah. He ordered head, c-spine, and chest films. But nothing looked broken. "Carol monitor her vitals. Dix, let's find out what kinda trouble this Gage is involved in."

Tim waited out in the hall. He was feeling guilty about letting Sarah down. He could still hear the scream that came over the wire when they grabbed her. Seeing Dix and Brackett come out of the treatment room he stepped forward. "Sarah gonna be alright?"

Brackett nodded, "Yes, it looks like a concussion, some deep bruising, and the numb feeling in her legs is probably from a pinched nerve."

Not realizing the history between Brackett and Sarah, Tim said, "Yea, Sarah said that was the problem." Tim didn't understand why the doctor rolled his eyes, and shook his head.

Brackett questioned, "Would you like to tell me how a good friend of ours ended up here."

Tim didn't realize Brackett knew Sarah. "Sorry didn't realize you knew her."

Brackett could see the man needed to sit down. It was five in the morning and obviously he'd been up all night. "Let's go to my office and talk. Dixie, you'd better call Johnny."

"No." Tim said firmly. "Sarah didn't want Johnny bothered since he's working."

As they passed the base station, <<<<Rampart, squad 51, how do you read?>>> It was Johnny's voice.

Dixie, Brackett, and Tim exchanged looks. Dixie spoke first, " Well, it sounds like he's coming here anyway."

Brackett went to handle the call, leaving Tim and Dixie in the hall. Dixie looked him up and down. "Care to tell me just how Sarah got hurt?"

Tim could tell how much these people cared for Sarah. He was feeling even guiltier about letting her down. Suddenly, he felt like he was a boy called to the principal's office. "We've been working a stake out. I let her out of my sight for a second and they grabbed her." Tim ran his hand over her face. "Pulled her into a van, then when we pursued, threw her out and into traffic." Tim felt his stomach do a spin when he flashed on that memory.

"A stake out, but that outfit, and her comment about what happened…." Dixie paused as she put the pieces together. Looking at Tim's uneasiness she realized what the stake out was for. "She's been 'working the streets' looking for that 'guy' hasn't she?" Dixie was in awe of the danger Sarah was placing herself in.

Tim wasn't supposed to discuss the stake out with anyone but these are Sarah's friends.   He looked around, then nodded to Dixie.

"X-rays are done," the tech said leaving the treatment room.

Brackett rejoined the group. "Well, he's on his way in." Brackett turned to Dixie. "Their patient seems to be having some kind of anxiety attack. So, take him in 2 when he gets here, Dix."   Brackett turned to face Tim. "Care to tell me how Sarah got hurt?"

Tim took a deep breath and looked for support from Dixie but found none coming his way. He told the story how he failed his partner again. Well, it's good practice for when I have to tell Johnny, Tim thought, I just might need my own doctor before this night is over. Sarah and Tim hadn't been partnered long but she had told him all about Johnny. Especially, how he was enjoying his roll as her big brother.

A short time later the ambulance with Johnny and his patient pulled up to the emergency room. The patient seemed calmer, so Johnny didn't feel the need to follow him into the treatment room. So, he headed toward the nurses' station for some coffee. Johnny noticed that Dixie was there with a man he had never seen before. Tim could tell this was Sarah's brother and he tried to steel himself for what he had to say. But the x-ray tech spoke before he or Dixie could calmly tell Johnny about Sarah.

"Miss McCall, excuse me these are the x-rays Dr. Brackett wanted of Sarah Gage."

"WHAT?!," Johnny yelled, and looked to Dixie for answer. "She should be home. How did she get hurt?" Johnny's eyes grew small and angry. "Who was she with? Did her 'date' do something to her? Dixie, where is she? What happened?" Johnny was bordering on frantic.

Roy could hear Johnny's very agitated voice the moment the emergency room doors opened. Roy quickened his step and approached the station.

Dixie put her hands on Johnny's shoulder and forced him to make eye contact with her. "John, she's alright. You can see her. But not until you calm down."

Roy was now next to Johnny, "Hey, what's goin' on?" He said very calmly so not as to add to Johnny's agitation.

Roy could see the terror in Johnny's eyes. "Wh - what's happening, Dix?"

In the calmest voice she had, Dixie answered Roy's question. "Sarah's here. She is going to be fine. Just battered around a little." Her eyes pleaded with Roy to stay calm.

Roy knew Johnny needed to see Sarah for himself. "Dix, what room is she in?"

"Treatment four."

Johnny headed off with Roy close behind.

Tim had watched the whole scene. Dixie turned to see a concerned policeman. Tim spoke, "He's gonna kill me when he finds out I let her down."

Dixie felt for this stranger. "Johnny Gage will get angry, but he'll calm down." Dixie turned to walk away. Looking back she added. " Just don't stand to close when you tell him what happened?"

At the treatment room door Johnny took a deep breath to steady himself.
"Ready," Roy said with his hand on Roy's shoulder. Johnny nodded and walked in.

Sarah was still in her outfit but the sheet covered it. Her eyes were shut. Johnny and Roy could see her face was a mass of bruises. Sarah wore a c-collar and was still on a backboard. Sarah's arms were not under the sheet and so they saw the bruises that were there too.

Johnny swallowed hard and wiped at his eyes. Very quietly he went over to the table and sat on the nearby stool. Hesitantly, he ran his hand through Sarah's hair. He now noticed all the makeup she had on. Why?

"Don't be sneaky, I heard you yelling in the hall." Sarah said opening her eyes and trying to turn her head towards Johnny. "Can't a girl get some sleep." Sarah smiled.

The tension in the room waned a little.

Johnny looked at her face and his stomach turned at all the bruises. "Sarah, you alright?" His voice was just above a whisper and so gentle. He kept running his hand through her hair.

Sarah smiled again. Using her hand without the IV, she ran her finger over his cheek. "John I'm fine, they shouldn't have called you." Sarah was feeling terrible about upsetting John so.

"We had a run, and yes they should have called me."

The door to the treatment room open and Brackett entered with the x-rays. "Roy, Johnny. Well, Sarah, nothing's broken. You should be fighting bad guys again in a few days."

"See I told you I'm fine. What are a few bruises? Can I go now?" She winced as her chest ached from the blows she had received. The sheet, which had been covering her, slipped slightly revealing 'the outfit'.

Johnny and Roy were staring. Brackett had seen it when she was brought in so he answered Sarah, "NO, you still have a concussion. Also, some of that bruising is pretty deep and you may need stronger meds. So I'm keeping you over night. Don't even try to argue"

Dixie entered the room with Tim just as Brackett finished speaking. Seeing Sarah with the sheet hanging slightly off the table she moved in quickly. Dixie once again covered her with the sheet.

Johnny noticed Tim, "Who are you?"

Tim looked back and forth between Dix and the Doc. "I'm Tim Coughlin, I'm sorry this happened. I should have been more careful."

Johnny didn't wait to hear anymore. He charged at Tim and grabbed him by the arms, forcing him against the wall. "You're responsible for her getting hurt." Roy tried to pull Johnny off Tim but was met with firm resistance. Brackett and Dixie tried to reason with him.

"Johnny let him go. He did his best under the circumstances," Dixie tried to get Johnny's attention.

"John, leave Tim alone," Sarah said, unable to move due to the c-collar and backboard. However, her limited movement caused her to gasp

Hearing Sarah, Johnny turned to see her tightly close her eyes trying to control the pain. "Sarah," Johnny could tell by the way she was breathing that she was fighting the pain she was feeling. Releasing Tim, Johnny went to Sarah's side.

Sarah kept talking, "John, Tim couldn't stop them even if he had been standing next to me."

Johnny turned towards Tim, "You are not going to see Sarah again." Johnny looked to Sarah. "We got to find a better guy for you to date."

Shaking her head, as much as the collar would allow, Sarah laughed, "John, he, we weren't on a date. He's my partner for a special assignment I've been working on."

Johnny was confused, "Assignment, dressed like that."

Sarah was now getting mad, "You think I'd dress like this for a date. Christ John, is that what you think of me after all this time?"

Johnny was embarrassed and ashamed, "Well, …no…but…then why are you wearing those clothes?" Looking back at Tim and then to Dixie and Brackett. All the pieces, the long hours that Sarah had been putting in, the outfit, and being in Rampart's district, " you've been trying to get that crazy, haven't you?"

Roy now also realized what Johnny was implying.

Sarah's head was throbbing and her chest hurt with every breath. "John, let Tim explain everything." Closing her eyes and sighing deeply. " I just don't have the energy to explain it all to you."

With that Roy took Johnny by the arm and led him from the exam room. Roy motioned for Tim to follow. The three men headed for the lounge. There, Tim described the night's events. When he finished Johnny's elbows were on his knees and his head was in his hands. Roy could see his friend's shoulders shaking. Roy was sure Johnny was thinking about all the things that could have happened to Sarah if she hadn't been thrown from the van. Or that she could've been killed when thrown from the van. Either way Johnny was dealing with the reality of how close he came to losing his sister.

***

Back on the street where Sarah had been hurt. He was looking for her. He had seen her working this street on many nights. Tonight it would be her turn. The anger in him grew when he couldn't find her. How dare she not be there? Walking and looking at the other women he heard them talking about the "hooker" who had gotten hurt. He listened more intently to their conversation. It became clear to him that his prey was the one who had gotten hurt. He needed her, no one else would do. He wouldn't be denied. He thought about where they would have taken her, Rampart. Now he had to develop a way to get to her. Going down the street he got in his car and headed to Rampart. "I will not be denied by some common whore." He had come to think of this area as a convenient one-stop shopping center for exploitation and mayhem - a captive population of potential victims.

He remembered the first night he saw her. She was more like his mother than any whore he had killed so far. She brought back all the nights of watching his mother turning tricks with him in the room. She would beat him and call him evil. His mother would even beat his crippled father. His father had died of pneumonia leaving him alone at the age of twelve with his mother. His mother continued the beatings until finally at the age of 17 he took a knife and butchered his own mother. After that any woman who showed him affection was risking her life. Actually, any woman coming into contact with him was risking her life. But this girl she was special, her facial features indicated Indian, maybe not a Chippewa, like his mother, but close enough.

"Johnny she's alright, we need to get back to the station," Roy said.

"I don't know if I can?"

"If you feel you can't I'll call the cap. I'm sure he will understand." Roy wanted Johnny distracted and thought work would do it. "There's just a couple of hours left on this shift. Why don't we make ourselves available from here?"

Johnny looked up at Roy. He knew what Roy was trying to do. Johnny nodded his head. "Okay, make us available from here. At least I can stay with her." Johnny stood and went to the windows. "Roy, I almost lost her tonight."

Roy went to his side. "You didn't. Come on they probably have her in her room by now."

Tim had watched the two men leave. He was angry with himself for the pain he had brought to Sarah's friends. Tim went home to wallow in his guilt.

Johnny went to Sarah's room. Roy kept the HT so if they got called out it wouldn't wake Sarah. Roy called cap and told him all that was going on.

The crew had heard the phone ring and from what Cap said they knew something had happened to Sarah. As soon as Cap hung up the phone he was inundated with questions. He answered them all.   The wake up tones would go off soon so they decided to start their day a little early. The dayroom was quiet despite four men being there.

"If I had told Johnny what I knew maybe she wouldn't have gone to work last night." Chet said into his coffee.

Marco heard what Chet said. "You knew what Sarah was doing? How?"

Chet was embarrassed. He had let Johnny down. He had more than being Sarah's friend on his mind since that night. He looked at Marco.

"I saw her working the other night. Sarah told me what she was doing." Chet laughed nervously, "She also said I had better not tell Johnny or else."

Mike and Hank heard what Chet had said. Mike went to Chet. "Can't blame yourself, I doubt if Johnny knowing would've stopped her."

"That's true Sarah is as strong willed as Johnny," Cap added. Then Cap and Mike went out into the bay.

"There's more to this than you're telling us?" Marco questioned.

"I'm not sure but…..Marco …she's…I think," Chet shook his head. "I'm having feelings for her and not the friendship kind. The other night she touched my cheek. Man, I just about melted."

Marco was stunned. Sarah and Chet had been battling back and forth since she had come to LA. She even had his car towed once when the phantom had been bothering Johnny.

"Chet, all you two do is torment each other." The look in his friend's eyes told Marco Chet was being serious. "Chet, do you think she feels the same way?"

"Marco, I don't think so." Chet said, " I think I'll go to the hospital when we get off." Chet rose and put his coffee cup in the sink. He left the room quietly and left Marco alone in the dayroom.

***

He entered the emergency room. He didn't know how to find out about her. He spied the main desk and decided to take a risk. "Excuse me, a friend of mine was brought in a few hours ago. She was thrown from a van."

The night nurse was exhausted and hadn't really listened when Dixie warned the staff about not releasing Sarah's name to anyone. Without looking up the nurse said, "Sarah Gage, she was admitted for observation, should be released tomorrow."

A huge smile spread across his face. "Thank you, ma'am." He turned and left. Tomorrow she's mine. His thoughts raced with ideas of what he was going to do with this special one. His mother had died to quickly for his liking. The butcher knife had pierced her heart the first time he stabbed her. This time he would be more careful. He wanted her to feel all the pain and terror he had felt as a child. Piece by piece he would take her apart.

***

Johnny stayed with Sarah all day even though she slept through most of it. Roy and Joanne came to visit later in the day. Sarah looked much better. As Roy and Joanne prepared to leave Sarah spoke up, "Roy could you please make Johnny go home?" She pointed towards Johnny. "He's been here all day. And you well know how dealing with him can really tire a person out." Sarah raised an eyebrow and smirked.

Joanne nudged Roy. Roy saw the smile on his wife's face. "I know what you mean Sarah. But I, at least, I get paid for spending my days with him." Roy smiled broadly at the look of shock on Johnny's face.

Joanne had to side with Sarah. "Johnny we," she pointed to herself and Roy, "have a hard time keeping up with you, even when not hurt."

"Heck, you even tire out Jen and Chris," Roy said noticing a slight smile come to Johnny's face.

Johnny started laughing. Sarah was happy to see Johnny start to relax. "After all John, I think if I wanted to spend this much time with a guy watching me in bed he wouldn't be my brother." Joanne and Sarah laughed at the blush that came to Roy and Johnny's cheeks.

"Junior, I think we all better go and let her get some rest." Roy put his arm around Johnny's shoulder and directed him to the door.

Looking over his shoulder Johnny quickly said, "I'll be back in the morning."

Sarah couldn't resist one last comment. "Not to early, just might be enjoying some time alone with that cute intern." They could hear her laugh after the door closed behind them.

Joanne, Roy and Johnny made their way to the parking lot. Once at their cars, Johnny hesitated a moment. Roy recognized the look on Johnny's face, so could Joanne. So, Roy and Joanne came and stood on either side of Johnny. Roy spoke first. "This really shook you. Are you sure you don't want to stay with us tonight?"

Joanne added, "the kids would love to see you?"

Johnny looked back and forth between his friends. "No, I'm alright. So, long as she's alright."

Joanne hugged him. "Listen, you need anything, don't hesitate to call." Joanne wanted to give Roy some time alone with Johnny. "Roy, I'll meet you by the car." With that Roy was alone with Johnny.

"Johnny, you know you can talk to Jo and I about all this." Roy watched as Johnny continued to stare at the ground. "Johnny maybe you should come over."

Johnny looked up at Roy. "No, Roy I'm alright." His tone was flat and unemotional. Looking up at the stars he continued, "She just looks so small and young laying in that bed. Innocent, you know?" Johnny took a deep breath then blew it out. "I watched her sleeping this afternoon. She looked so peaceful, even after all that happened today."

Roy leaned against Johnny's car. "Johnny she's a strong lady. Especially, for someone so young. But, junior, that's the Gage blood line for ya."

Johnny unlocked his car door. Looking at Roy, " Dixie said something like that too, just a little more bluntly."

"Really, what did she say?"

Johnny smirked shyly, "well, she said she didn't know why I was so worried because 'Sarah got the same hard head, and stubbornness as you do'" Johnny mocked using a girlish voice.

Roy chuckled, "Hey, Dixie's always right you know."

"Get off my car so I can go home," Johnny gave Roy a playful shove.

"See you tomorrow Johnny," Roy called heading towards his own car.

***

Shortly after that Chet came by for a visit

Chet knocked lightly and poked his head in the door. "Sarah, can I come in."

Sarah was surprised and happy to see him. She ran her hand through her hair and sat up a little straighter. "Hey, Chet sure come on in."

He went to her bedside and his heart was beating faster. "Sarah, you look ... like you're feeling better." He wanted to say beautiful but he stopped himself in time.

"Thanks Chet. I'm gonna get outta here tomorrow." She looked at him and saw something she hadn't noticed before, genuine concern and something more. "Chet thank you for not telling John. I know that must have a been hard for you." He's blushing, that's so sweet. Maybe he's not all bad. Actually, he's kinda cute when he's not being an ass.

Sarah took his hand and felt his sweaty palm. "Chet, John was really shook up by this. Could you please put the phantom away for awhile?" She smiled.

Those eyes, how could I not have noticed before how absolutely gorgeous they are. "Of course." Chet leaned in and gently stroked her cheek, "anything for you." And kissed her cheek. Sarah didn't flinch, but savored the moment.

<<Visiting hours are over.>>>

The moment was gone. "I better get going. You need your rest." As he opened the door he turned back around. "Could I come by the ranch tomorrow and check up on you?" Chet asked pleadingly.

"S.. sure of...of course Chet. That would be nice." Why did I just stutter?

"Good, see you tomorrow." With that Chet left the room with some pep in his step.

Sarah now alone started thinking about what had just happened. It's gotta be the head injury. Sarah rolled onto her side and fell asleep.

***

Okay, all I have to do is wait till she comes out, then I can follow her to her home. I will have her. So, he sat in his car. Duct tape, handcuffs, and a knife was on the seat next to him. Looking at the items he thought about the fun he would have listening to her try to scream through the duct tape just like the others had. He smiled broadly thinking how she would writhe in agony when he started cutting her up while still alive.

***

"Ready to go," Johnny stated pushing the wheelchair into Sarah's room.

"Yup, I'd rather smell our horses than the antiseptic smell of this place."

"Okay, hop in. Brackett's already signed all the paper work."

Sarah got into the chair. Then putting on a British accent, "Home James."

Johnny steered the chair through the hall and onto the elevator. Going out the emergency room allowed Sarah to thank Dixie and Brackett for all they did. Sarah not one to let an opportunity to shake up Brackett slip by said, "Any problems diagnosing patients today, Dr. Brackett, just call me at home." Johnny laughed and pushed the chair a little more quickly to avoid an angry Brackett.

***

He saw her. Her hair was shorter. Maybe she wore a wig like some of the other whores did. He watched as the man helped her from the chair and into the white truck. He would have to deal with the man. He started his car and began following an unaware John and Sarah Gage. He thought they would be heading into the city. But they didn't. Finally, they reached their destination. He watched Johnny pull up the dirt driveway, but did not follow. Instead he went further up the road. He parked the car in a grove of trees, packed up his supplies and hiked through the woods til he came to a house with the white truck in front.

***

"Now, you stay on the couch and rest," Johnny said to Sarah.

"John that's all I've done. I want to go check on Fury."

"No, you need to rest and take it easy." A smirk came to Johnny's face. "Otherwise I call Brackett and Dixie. And I have a feeling Brackett would want to run a few nasty medical tests on you for your comment you made when we left the hospital."

"You can be very mean John Gage." Sarah pouted, went and sat on the couch putting her feet up on the coffee table. "Fine then wait on me hand and foot. Now get me some coffee."

"Feet off the table and do not order me around. Remember you will recover and I will get even."

"Geeze, I'm just kidding. Can I have some coffee please?" Sarah batted her eyes at him.

"Let me check the horses first, then I'll make us a brunch. You could not have liked hospital food."

Laying her head back, "That's the truth."

Heading out the door, "See ya in a bit."

Sarah stretched out on the couch and started dozing off. Out in the barn Johnny was mucking the stalls and giving fresh feed and water to the horses

***

Chet started getting ready to head over to see Sarah. He was going to visit later in the day but he couldn't wait. Chet figured Johnny would be bringing Sarah home by eleven or so. Chet planned on being there for eleven. He had his hair and mustache trimmed. Then he ironed his new shirt and put on his new jeans. He looked at his image in the mirror as he always did before a date. This isn't a date. It's Johnny and Sarah. Sarah, God she looked so beautiful last night. Chet brushed off any lint, and headed out to the Gage Ranch.

***

"Um, excuse me."

Johnny looked up from what he was doing to see a man standing in the barn door. "Yes, can I help you?"

"My car broke down and I need to use a phone."

Johnny motioned to the back tack room, "No problem. There's a phone in the tack room. This way." Johnny turned to lead the way. Suddenly his world went black.

The man made quick work of duct taping Johnny's hands and feet together. Then he ducted taped Johnny's mouth. He was practically salivating thinking about doing this to the woman in her house.

Sarah opened her eyes and couldn't believe she had fallen asleep. When Sarah looked at the clock she was shocked to see it was almost eleven. Where is Johnny? Sarah got up and went to the front door. She opened the door and nearly jumped. "Hello, may I help you?" Sarah said to the gentleman standing there. She glanced over his shoulder looking for Johnny.

"He's not going to save you, whore."

Sarah stared at the man. Her eyes went wide when she realized who she was looking at. Sarah shoved the man hard and tried to slam the door, but she was still weak. He pushed the door and it gave. Sarah tried to run to the phone but he was on her before she could reach it. Sarah hit the floor hard when the man tackled her.

"That's the first thing I took care of. The man was the second." He was trying to grab her arms as he crawled his way up her prone body.

Sarah kept swinging her fists at him. She kicked and scratched. Thoughts of Johnny needing her help made her fight even harder. Drawing on all her training she watched carefully for an opening. Sarah slowed down and the man relaxed slightly. Sarah seeing an opening balled her fist and swung. Striking the man in the nose he fell off of her. Sarah got to her feet and ran up the stairs to where she kept her gun. Going into her room she opened the drawer of the nightstand. No gun. "Damm" When the DeSoto children had been over she had disassembled it and put it in the tack room. Suddenly the door to her room burst open.

"You bitch, you whore. I gonna take my time with you." Sarah had no where to go. He started at her, his knife swinging at her. Sarah threw the lamp at him a tried to reach the door. He grabbed her by the hair and pulled her back. "I'm gonna make you squeal like a stuck pig. Then I'm gonna pick you apart inch by inch."

Sarah could feel the knife blade just next to her jugular. A flinch could mean she would bleed to death. Sarah's mind began racing to think of a way out of this situation. Sarah heard a car pulling into the driveway. So did the man. His concentration broken Sarah took it for her advantage. Sarah rammed her left elbow into his ribs. Then stomped on his left foot. He released her and was bent at the waist. Sarah interlocked her hands and swung her hands with all her might at his head. He went flying across the room. Sarah ran from the room, down the stairs, out the front door, and into Chet's arms. Startled, Sarah swung at him.

"Sarah, what's going on? What happened?"

Sarah realized who was holding her, "Chet's he's upstairs. He hurt John. We've got to find John?"

Grabbing Sarah by her arms and looking into her eyes, "Who hurt Johnny? Sarah who's here?"

"Get away from her she's mine."

Chet looked at the man. He saw the knife. Sarah grabbed Chet's arm. "Move, Chet, the barn." Sarah dragged Chet by the arm, from the house. Chet trusted Sarah and ran with her to the barn. The man still dazed by the blow Sarah had given to his head followed slowly.

Once in the barn, Sarah and Chet shut the doors.

"Chet put that bar across the door." Sarah told Chet. "I'm going to the tack room. My gun's in there."

Chet stayed by the door. He could hear the man coming. "Chet!" Sarah yelled.

Chet ran to the tack room. He saw a groggy Johnny struggling against his bonds. Nodding in John's direction Sarah said, "Chet check John. I've got to assemble my gun."

Chet started releasing Johnny from the tape. Sarah made quick work of assembling her weapon. "Stay here with John, I'm gonna see what he's up to."

"Sarah, No," Johnny said when Chet removed the tape.

Sarah knelt next to Johnny. She gently touched a red raw mark that the tape left behind. "Just stay down and quiet." Sarah moved from the tack room towards the front of the barn.

Johnny, now free from the tape, struggled to his feet. "Chet we gotta help her." Johnny held onto Chet.

"I know Johnny but you're barely able to stand." Chet supported Johnny as they came out of the tack room.

"You didn't lock the windows."

Sarah spun around. There, six feet in front of her was the man. His face began to contort in uncontrollable anger. Screaming he charged at her with his knife high in the air. Sarah reacted from pure instinct, like she had once before. Sarah brought up her weapon and fired, and fired and fired. The man's momentum kept his body moving forward even after being shot three times at close range. He was dead before his body hit Sarah. Sarah fell to the ground, the man's body on top of her.

"No, Sarah, Oh God," Johnny screamed not sure whether the man had been able to stab Sarah. Chet left Johnny and ran to Sarah. Chet rolled the body off of her. She sat up shaking and crying. Chet took her face in his hands; her hands went to his shoulders.

Chet forced Sarah to look at him. "Sarah, come on now, deep breaths. Are you okay? Sarah did he hurt you?"

Sarah shook her head, "N..no..no I'm okay," she swallowed hard and was still trying to catch her breath.

***

Tim was annoyed that he had to bother Sarah so soon after getting out of the hospital but he needed her statement about the incident from the night before. He pulled into the driveway and stepped from the car. Tim noticed the front door of the home wide open. That's when he heard the gunfire.
He drew his own weapon and quickly approached the barn. "Hey, what's going on in there. Open up Police!" Tim's voice came from the other side of the barn door.

Chet looked away from Sarah when he heard the voice at the barn door. "Sarah I'm gonna let him in. I'll be right back." Chet stood and let Tim in.

Johnny carefully made his way to his sister, as Chet went to let Tim in. Johnny sat down on the ground next to Sarah and wrapped his arm around her. "You all right."

"I just killed another man." Sarah turned her head into John's shoulder and cried. Johnny rocked Sarah. Chet, after explaining everything to Tim, looked over to see Johnny comforting his sister. Johnny looked up, saw Chet, and waved Chet over. Chet came over to Sarah and knelt next to her. He gently stroked her hair.

"Chet, if you hadn't come over …."

"Not now Johnny. Let's get the two of you back to the house." Chet helped Johnny get Sarah to her feet. Johnny was expecting Sarah to turn towards him. But she turned to Chet instead. Chet wrapped his arms around her and headed to the house. Johnny watched Chet and Sarah and smiled. Though he and Chet had their fights they were friends. Johnny had seen the way Chet looked at Sarah and the way he held her -with love. He slowly followed them. The sound of sirens was getting closer.

Several police units responded to Tim's radio call. Chet had gotten Sarah and Johnny into the house and settled on the couch. Johnny was shocked by the state of the house. Clearly, Sarah and the man struggled violently to cause so much damage. Johnny shuddered as he imagined Sarah fighting for her life.   Sarah was quiet and had her eyes shut. Her breathing was uneven. Johnny was about to ask if she was all right when the detective entered.

"I'm sorry but you have to leave the house, since it is part of a crime scene."

Tim was angry,   "These people just battled for their lives and you won't let them sit in here til the paramedics arrive? Go to hell."

Sarah looked at Tim and shook her head. "No, Tim, he's right." Sarah started to get up. Suddenly her eyes grew wide, her hand went to her chest, and she gasped. Sarah fell back onto the couch. Her mouth was forming words but nothing came out. The adrenaline rush was ebbing and allowing Sarah to feel the extent of her new injuries.

Johnny was shocked, "Sarah, what's wrong?' His own throbbing headache was forgotten. Looking closely he knew what that panicked expression on her face meant. "You can't breath?"

She nodded. Then she mouthed the word punctured.

Johnny began taking her pulse and watching her respirations. "When's that squad gonna get here?" Johnny began worrying about the possibility of other internal injuries. Johnny couldn't stand seeing the pain and fear displayed on Sarah's face.

"It's 2 minutes out Johnny," Tim said watching Sarah struggle for breath.

Johnny knew he had to move Sarah to try to ease her breathing. "Chet help me get her on the floor, then sit her up slightly." Chet was carefully following Johnny's lead. Soon Sarah was breathing a little easier, but not much. Sarah patted Johnny's arm. Johnny saw her look at him and smile. She's trying to calm me!

Tim watched as Johnny held Sarah. Johnny calmly instructed Sarah to try to slow her breathing. Chet held her hand. When the squad arrived, Sarah was quickly readied for transport. Before the gurney was loaded into the ambulance Sarah asked for Johnny.

"Sarah they need to get you to the hospital, I'll talk to you there." Johnny gently stroked her face.

Sarah shook her head, "Johnny I'm sorry about all this, he could've killed you." Sarah choked back her tears. "I'm so sorry, so sorry."

Seeing her this upset and hurt was almost too much for Johnny. "Sarah, Sarah, please you need to calm down," Johnny said. Then turning to the attendants, " Get her outta here. Move now."

With that Sarah was loaded and on her way to Rampart. Johnny watched the ambulance leave.

Chet noticed Johnny's shoulders slump. "Johnny, she gonna be alright? What happened? She seemed okay." Chet asked standing next to Johnny.

Johnny stared down the road where the ambulance just went. "I think the beating from the other night and fighting with that guy today caused a rib to puncture her lung." Johnny finally turned to look at Chet. "Chet if you hadn't shown up when you did….well all I can say is thanks Chet, but it isn't enough."

Chet felt overwhelmed. "Yea, well," Chet didn't want to dwell on what could've happened. "Hey, let's get going to the hospital. I don't want her to have to be alone. We'll call Roy from there." Chet looked around at all the police and shook his head. He could see into the barn. The yellow blanket covered the man's body. "Johnny, Sarah saved our lives. He would have killed us all."

Johnny felt his strength draining. "Chet I can't and don't want to think of anything but helping Sarah right now. Let's go." The two men left the scene. …killed another man. Oh, Sarah, Johnny thought.

***

At Rampart things were set up and ready to receive Sarah. Brackett was relieved that she had not developed any further complications on the way in.
Dixie called Roy and told him the limited information she had. Roy was on his way.

When Sarah arrived she was whisked into a treatment room. The oxygen helped some and Sarah was more aware of what was going on.

Brackett took Sarah's hand. "Well, little lady, I see you couldn't stay away. We'll get you fixed up in no time."

Sarah rolled her eyes. "Little lady? When I can stand on my own two feet again I'm gonna knock you on your butt for that comment."

Dixie smiled as she deflated the BP cuff, "Well, her sense of humor is intact."

"I wasn't joking. Bet I could make a bundle on selling tickets to that event." Sarah coughed and winced.

Brackett went back to work, "Okay, but first we fix you up." Looking up to Dix, "Let's get a chest tube in then alert OR that she's coming up."

The procedure was performed and Sarah was on her way up to surgery. Johnny and Chet got there in time to see her whisked into the elevator. They went to the lounge to wait. Roy came in a short time later.

"Any news? Johnny you alright?" Roy went to Johnny's side.

"Roy it was that murderer. He came to the house. He wanted to….he would've….Sarah shot him, dead, in the barn." Johnny's head dropped into his hands. Roy, shocked, just fell into the seat next to Johnny.

Looking to Chet, Roy asked, "How's Sarah?"

"Sarah's in surgery, a punctured lung. She should be okay."

Roy nodded and turned his attention back to Johnny. He noticed something in Johnny's hair. Roy touched Johnny's hair and realized the substance was blood. "Johnny you've got blood on the back of your head."

"I do." Johnny touched the back of his head and winced. "Guess I forgot."

"Forgot what?"

"Well, that guy kinda knocked me cold," Johnny said sheepishly

Roy was now concern about his friend's health. "Chet did he get checked out?"

Chet was angry that he forgot about Johnny being taped up in the tack room. "No Roy, he wasn't. Sarah and I found him bound with duct tape in the tack room. But he was conscious, but not too steady."

"Okay, Chet see if you can find Dixie and a doctor. Johnny you need to be checked out."

Chet found Dixie and Brackett. Roy helped Johnny to an exam room.

"Johnny were you unconscious at all?" Brackett asked checking pupil responses.

"Yes, just don't know for how long,"

"Well, pupil responses are a little sluggish." Brackett began checking Johnny's head. "There's a lump back here. Dix, let's get a skull series to rule out any fractures." Brackett looked at Johnny and could see his exhaustion. "I'm keeping you overnight, not like you would have gone home anyway." Brackett tried to lighten the mood. "By the way your sister threatened to beat me up for calling her little lady. Said she was gonna sell tickets."

Chet, Johnny and Roy smiled. "Yep, that's my girl." Johnny said proudly. Then his tone became more serious. "Doc, she'll be okay right?"

Brackett shook his head and smiled. "Johnny, if she has just half of your stubborn streak, she'll be fighting to get out of here in no time. Now, let me see about getting you a room. And before you ask -as soon as I know anything about Sarah, I'll let you know."

"Thanks Doc," With that Johnny laid back and closed his eyes.

Roy motioned for Chet to leave the room with him. Once out in the hall Roy asked Chet about just what had happened at the ranch. Chet told Roy everything.

Tim Coughlin entered the hospital and saw Roy and Chet. "Roy, how's Sarah?"

"No news yet Tim." Roy continued. "Johnny's being admitted for a concussion."

"I didn't know he was hurt." Tim looked to Chet. They hadn't been introduced. "I'm Tim Coughlin. I've been working with Sarah. I didn't catch your name at the house." Tim put out his hand.

"Chet Kelly, I work with Johnny." They shook hands.

"Good thing you got there when you did." Tim could clearly see the anxiety on both men's faces. "Hey, Sarah's one hell of a fighter I'm sure she'll be alright."

Chet cleared his throat. "Um, Tim Sarah killed that guy huh?"

"Yes, Chet, she had no other choice. It was her or him from what you told me. She made the correct choice."

Roy looked up at the ceiling and then at Chet, "How is she ever gonna deal with that?"

"Sarah knows how to handle this kind of thing. After all she's been through it before." Tim added.

Chet and Roy exchanged puzzled looks. Chet spoke first, "…Been through it before. What do you mean?"

"Sarah lost her partner in domestic dispute when she was on the job only six months." Tim continued the story not realizing this was information Sarah had never shared. "I'm mean she had been hit herself and still … You don't know about that do you?"

Roy and Chet shook their heads. "It was in her records, I mean she even got a letter of commendation. You know bravery above and beyond. She never said a word to any of you?"

"No, she didn't," Roy said softly. He remembered the day of the barbecue several months back when his son had asked Sarah if she ever shot anyone. The look that had come over Sarah's face was that of despair. Now he knew why.

Tim wished he could take back the entire conversation. "Listen, when the press gets a hold of the story of what happened today they will probably dig this info up on Sarah. You better talk to Johnny about it."

An hour later Roy and Chet were with Johnny in his room.

"Well, gentlemen, Sarah should be back on her feet within a few weeks," Brackett announced entering the room. "Her lung was punctured and a few ribs were cracked but she'll recover to fight crime another day."

"Thank God," Johnny blew out a deep breath. "When can I see her?"

"In the morning, you both need your rest. Well there are other patients I've got to check on," with that Brackett left the room.

"Chet why don't you make the phone calls letting everyone know Sarah's okay. I'd like to talk to Johnny." The sad tone to Roy's voice led Chet to understand that Roy was going to tell Johnny about the information Tim told them.

"Sure Roy, no problem. See ya later Gage."

Johnny watched Roy walk over and look out the window. Roy didn't know how to tell his best friend about his sister's past.

"Roy what's wrong?"

"Johnny remember when we had the barbecue to tell everyone about Sarah?" Roy still stood at the window.

A smile came to Johnny's face. "Yeah, that was a great day. What's that got to do with today."

Roy turned and went to Johnny's bedside. Looking down and fiddling with the sheet, "Remember when Chris asked her if she ever shot anyone." With that Roy looked Johnny in the face.

Johnny was confused but answered the question, "She said she had to. So, what's that got to do with today?" Does he know?

"I found out from Tim, Tim Coughlin that Sarah had not only shot but killed someone."

Roy waited for the astonished look from Johnny but it never came. "I already now about that Roy. I just didn't think anyone around here did."

"How'd you find out?"

Johnny laid his head back and began reliving the day Sarah told him the story. "A couple months back Sarah ask me to take a day off from work to go riding. I knew something was going on she had been really depressed for about a week before. Well, anyway we rode for hours. Finally, we set up a campfire and she said that she had something to tell me." A little smile came to Johnny's face. "She also said I couldn't say a word until she was done. Sarah told me everything about her partner, the run, getting shot, and watching her partner being shot, and about having to choose to take the man's life."

"God, Johnny, I wish you would have told me. How could you not tell me? It musta hurt like hell to listen to all that."

"It did," Johnny choked and swallowed hard. "But Sarah wanted me to understand why she had been so down. It was the anniversary of that horrible day."

"Johnny, I have to ask, but you don't have to answer." Roy really wasn't sure he wanted the answer. "Can you tell me what happened? Tim said Sarah got a commendation for what she did."

"Sarah tore it up."

"The commendation?"

"Yes," Johnny needed to tell Roy about this. "Roy, Sarah was only nineteen. They were dispatched to a house over a domestic dispute. When they got there the wife ran screaming from the house. The husband stepped out onto the front porch and started shooting at them." Johnny laid his head back and continued the story staring at the ceiling. "Sarah said the wife never knew what hit her. There was another shot and Sarah was hit in the shoulder. Dave, her partner, saw her get hit and was trying to get to her when he was hit. Sarah could see him bleeding heavily. Well, then the husband went over to his wife and shot her again. Sarah said she tried to draw her gun but her arm wouldn't work so she reached for it with her other hand. The husband was standing over Dave reloading the gun. Sarah saw him aim the gun at Dave's head. That's when she shot him."

"Dear God," Roy sat down with his mouth hanging open.

Johnny turned his head towards Roy and finished the story. "Sarah crawled her way into the squad car and radioed for help. Then she went to help Dave. Sarah kept pressure on his wound till helped arrived. Before he died at the clinic he told the sheriff everything that happened. The sheriff put Sarah in for the commendation." Telling the story drained Johnny. "Hey, Roy could you pour me some water, please?"

Roy poured Johnny the water. "I could use something stronger after hearing that story." He handed Johnny his water. "Tim's worried that the press will find out about all of that and use it along with today's story."

After drinking down the water Johnny continued, "Roy how she gonna handle all of this."

"Johnny in both cases she had no choice. Kill or be killed. I know the feeling from Vietnam." Johnny looked at Roy. "No, I didn't kill anyone but would've to save a friend or myself. I'm sure even though Sarah hates what she had to do, she hates the alternatives even more."

Johnny nodded. Chet, himself, or Sarah might have been killed today if she hadn't done what she did.

"Roy see if Brackett will let you sit with Sarah. I don't want her to wake up alone," Johnny covered his face with his arm.

"You rest, I'll stay with Sarah no matter what Brackett says. After all she saved my partner and best friend today." With that Roy left Johnny's room.
Brackett told Roy it was okay to sit with Sarah. But what neither man knew was someone was already sitting with Sarah.

***

Chet knew he'd never get permission to sit with Sarah in the recovery room so he decided not to ask. The recovery room was quiet. There were two nurses standing at the nurse's station. He could see other nurses tending to patients. He waited. Another patient was wheeled in and the two nurses moved in to care for the patient. Chet made his move. He walked and took a quick peek at the patient status board. He saw Sarah's name and cubicle number. Chet then went to Sarah's cubicle unnoticed by the very busy nurses.

***

Roy entered the recovery room. The nurse nodded and pointed down to the far end of the room. The nurse had seen Sarah's name and thus knew whom Roy had come to see. As Roy approached he heard a familiar voice.

"You're going to be okay. Come on let me see those beautiful brown eyes. That smile of yours just lights up my heart. So, come on wake up for me. Smile for me. Sarah we've got a lot to talk about. I think…. I'm really starting fall in ……."

A slap on the back startled Roy. "Come to see our special patient?" Brackett said.

"Um, yes, came to sit with her, but someone is already with her."

Brackett was shocked; he didn't give permission for anyone else but Roy. He walked over and pulled back the curtain, "Chet Kelly, what are you doing here?"

Roy wondered if Johnny knew about Chet's interest in his sister. Roy put his hand on the Doctor's shoulder, "Doc, it's okay, Chet's a special friend to Sarah." Roy winked at Chet.

Chet wasn't sure if anyone heard him talking to Sarah. "Well, I didn't want her to be alone." Roy just smiled at Chet.

A soft moaning sound came from Sarah. Her eyes were struggling to open. Softly, she said something. The men came closer.

"Sarah, it's Dr. Brackett, can you hear me?" She nodded. "How are you feeling?"

Her eyes opened further and located the doctor. "Like I'm still gonna kick your butt for the little lady comment." Her eyes closed.

Roy and Chet tried to stifle their laughter but it only made if worse. They finally broke down totally when they saw the look of disbelief on Brackett's face.

"Well, if that's the thanks I get for putting Gages back together again I'm going to start charging by the minute." With that Brackett went to finish his rounds.

"You know Chet I think everything will work out." Roy slapped Chet on the back. "So anything you care to tell me about concerning the phantom and a feisty lady cop?" Roy saw a small smile come to Sarah's face.

Linda's comments: Just taking the boys out for a fun time. They don't belong to me so I'm put them back when I'm done. The good stuff's mine. The bad stuff's mine. The mistakes are mine. Some dark stuff in this story so read on with that in mind.

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