Second Chances continued When morning arrived, Morton wasn't surprised to see Johnny, JoAnne, Chris, and Jenny all walk into the hospital before 6 am. "Good morning," he said noticing how tired they all seemed. But then he wasn't surprised. The day before was a long one for each of them." Where's Kaitlin?" he asked. "Mornin', Doc. Hank Stanley's wife is looking after her today for us. She wasn't too sure when we first dropped her off, but once she spied Hank, she took to his wife in a hurry. "That's good. Now, I need to talk to all of you." Morton said. JoAnne gasped, "Roy, is he okay?" "Roy's fine. I'm sorry I shouldn't have alarmed you." "That's okay Doc, we're all a little on edge and it doesn't take much to frighten us. What's the problem?" Johnny asked curiously. "Come into my office and sit down." The group followed Morton into Brackett's old office and each of them took a seat. "First of all, we have to rescheduled the surgery." "Why?" Johnny asked. "You told us yesterday how important it was that he have it done as quickly as possible." "Something has come up. Trust me when I tell you that Roy is okay for the time being. He's okay." "Then what is it, Doc?" Johnny said beginning to get annoyed. "I was in checking on Roy in the middle of the night. We had a talk. I sort of promised him that I wouldn't tell you about our conversation, but considering..." Morton paused and then took a deep breath. "He knows today is your birthday, Johnny. He doesn't want to have the surgery on your birthday." "Why?" "Frankly, he's worried. Worried that something might go wrong and…" "He's afraid that he'll die on my birthday." Johnny finished. "That about sums it up, yes." "Doc. I want to speak to him. Right away." Johnny asked. "I was hoping you would." Morton replied. "Come with me." Before Johnny walked out of the office, he looked at JoAnne. "Don't worry Jo, I promise I won't upset him and he will be having his surgery straightaway." JoAnne smiled. She knew Roy would never again have a best friend like Johnny. She hoped that once all this was over, Roy would swallow his pride and totally accept his son in law. **** Johnny stepped over beside Roy's bed. Roy's eyes were closed and Johnny thought he was asleep. He instinctively reached out to check Roy's pulse. Roy opened his eyes when he felt a hand on his wrist. "What are you doing here?" he asked. "I could ask you the same thing. You should be on your way to the OR." Johnny said. "Change of plans." Roy replied. "Oh really and who was it that changed those plans."  Johnny asked with as his eyes honed in on his friend. Roy turned his head and look away from his buddy. "Roy, you may as well look at me, because I'm not going away." Roy closed his eyes and turned his head back. Taking a deep breath he opened his eyes again and looked his best friend in the eyes. "I asked Morton to reschedule." "Why in the world would you do something like that, Roy?" Johnny asked with slight impatience. "I just didn't feel like having it done today, that all." "If I didn't know any better I would swear I was talking to Chris instead of you." Johnny then chuckled. "Remember when Chris was fifteen years old and he had to have his appendix out?" Roy nodded then he slightly chuckled. "You shouldn't be laughing Roy." Johnny admonished in a jokingly sort of way.  "If I recall, Chris tried to talk the Doctor out of performing the surgery. And when the Doc asked why, he replied that it was because of my birthday. He further told the doc that he was scared of dying and didn't want to die on my birthday." Johnny said with a very serious expression on his face. Roy could see the sorrow emanating from Johnny's face. He knew the gig was up and he'd have to confess. "Johnny," he said. "I don't want you remembering your birthday as the day I kicked off." "I had a feeling that it was something like that. Roy, I want to assure you that everything is gonna be okay. Bailor is the best in the business and so is his team. I've worked in this hospital for almost six years and I know most of the staff. Roy, you know me. I would never let anyone but the best work on your heart. And the best thing you could do for me, for my birthday, is have the surgery straightaway, so you can get back on your feet as soon as possible. I want my best friend to be okay." Johnny stated soothingly. "I'll do it on one condition?" "What's that?" "I want you there when I wake up." "Deal, Roy." Johnny answered. He then stuck his hand out. Roy grasped it and they shook. When Johnny let go of Roy's hand, he stuck his head out around the curtain and motioned for Morton, who was standing near the entrance to the room, to come over. "Roy's agreed to have the surgery on one condition. He wants me to be there when he wakes up." "I don't see a problem with that. So, Roy, will you let me get this show on the road?" Roy nodded. "Just be sure he's there when I wake up." "I will my friend. I will." Morton said before walking over to the nurse's station to use the phone. Johnny gave Roy one of his patented grins. "I'll see you when you wake up, my friend," he said. Roy nodded and then Johnny left the room. Once outside in the hallway, Johnny leaned up against the wall. The tears that were building inside the room began to stream down his cheek. "Be okay, Roy, I need you and so does the rest of your family," he whispered. Johnny wiped the moisture from his face and quickly headed for the men's room. He wanted to compose himself before he returned to be with his family. ***** After Johnny settled himself emotionally, he went to his office.  He knew he'd find his family there. "Where's Chris?"  Johnny asked. "Oh he went down to emergency.  He figured he could help out there."  Jenny said. "But he's not in uniform." "Oh I don't think he'll 'help' like that.  I think he'll check out the nurses, chat with the guys that come in, you know things to keep him busy." "Oh I see." "A little reminiscent of you Johnny?"  JoAnne asked. Johnny looked at JoAnne and blushed.  "Those days are over for me." "Johnny it's okay to look at other women."  Jenny said.  "You're not dead."  Johnny laughed, "I can remember having that same conversation with Roy." "You did?"  JoAnne asked. "Oh no.  I'm in trouble."  Johnny laughed.  " I'm gonna go and find Brice and bring him up to date on my class.  You got my pager, if you need me Jen."  He went over to JoAnne and squeezed her arm and then went to his wife and kissed her forehead.  "Bye." "You really know how to push his buttons, Jen." "Hey I've been doing it since I was three!"  Both women laughed. JoAnne settled on the small couch in Johnny's office.  Jennifer sat behind John's desk. "Jen, don't get angry with me but I have to ask you something."  Jenny looked at her mother and saw the serious expression.  "Is everything okay with Johnny.  He seems to be having problems walking." "Nothing gets past you does it Mom." "You're not the only one who knows John Gage for twenty something years." "Mom, don't let him know I told you this.  He needs to have surgery on his hip.  He's considering hip replacement surgery.  The arthritis from the injury keeps getting worse.  There are days he can hardly bear his weight on his leg.  And that's causing problems with both of his legs." "So has he set a date?" "That's the thing Mom.  I think he was gonna do it in September, but with Daddy's condition, he's gonna hold off." "Why?  Why would he do that?" "He doesn't want to be a burden.  He knows he has to be strong for us.  Once he has the surgery, he's gonna be laid up for sometime.  He won't be able to drive.  Even though I work part time, I won't be there to help him.  He'll need to go to physical therapy.  I'm sure he thought he could depend on you, Roy and Chris to help us out.  But with Dad..." Jenny trailed off. "Oh that's ridiculous.  Why do these men think we're made of glass?  If you don't tell him to schedule that surgery I will.  Roy will be fine after this surgery.  We will all be fine."  JoAnne stood up and went to the window that overlooked the parking lot.  She saw Chris outside talking with other paramedics. "I told him to make the appointment.  I think he's gonna wait 'til after Dad's situation is stable.  Another day or so won't make a difference." "It does when you're in pain." Jennifer wanted to change the subject.  "Mom, do you know what to expect with Dad's recovery?  Have you given any thought to it?" "No not really.  I just keep thinking about the surgery." "Well, I'm sure Bailor will tell you to change Dad's diet and make sure he exercises and all that stuff.  But from what I know, people who have this kind of dramatic surgery start to be afraid to live.  They don't leave the house, fearing another attack.  They're scared to exert themselves.  I'm not saying Dad will be that way, but you should be aware." "There are a lot of things I know about Roy, and fear of living is not part of his vocabulary.   How long will this surgery take?"  JoAnne said looking at her watch. "About three to four hours.  We might as well make ourselves comfortable." That's what the women did.  JoAnne traded places with Jennifer and sat at Johnny's desk.  She played with his computer.  Two years ago, Chris and Jen chipped in and bought a computer for their parents.  At first, JoAnne used it to keep her recipes.  After she finished that task, she started to explore the computer.  Now, she considered herself to be knowledgeable with many different programs.  She enrolled in a computer course at their local junior college to learn more about programming. Jen decided to walk around the hospital to talk with friends.  She saw Johnny once, but he was arguing with Brice about something. Since it was a nice day outside, she went to the pavilion.  She saw Chris sitting by himself.  He stood up as she approached. "Any word yet?" "No Chris, it's gonna be awhile." The two sat on the bench letting the warm California sunshine hit their faces. "Jen?  Why didn't you tell me Johnny was having problems with his leg?" Jen was surprised to hear her brother ask.  "How did you know?" "I overheard you two talking last night." "Oh." "When Johnny was initially shot, I don't think any of us knew the extent of his injuries.  The bullet that injured his lower back really damaged his hip.  That's why he has all that trouble walking.  It's his hip.  Then he compensates which throws off his back and legs.  It never ends."  Jenny said with sorrow.  "He only told me after we were together for six months.  You know he fell and couldn't get up, like that commercial.  But it wasn't funny.  I saw this grown man, the man I love, sitting on the floor crying.  Chris, it broke my heart.  That's when he told me.  That's when he told me the condition of his hip and the deterioration he could expect as time wore on." Chris shook his head. "I never knew.  I don't think anyone of us knew." "No Chris and Johnny doesn't want anyone to know.  He's gonna have hip replacement surgery." "He is?" "Yes, but he's gonna postpone it 'til Dad's better."  Jenny looked down at her hands.  "I don't want him to wait.  He's in pain.  But he's afraid that once he has the surgery, he'll be a burden to me.  And with Dad recovering, he doesn't want to add any more pressure to us." "Jenny, you know I'll do anything I can.  I've been thinking of taking a leave of absence to help Dad with his recovery." "Christopher DeSoto.  Don't you do that!  Dad will never allow you to do that.  Just like Johnny doesn't want to trouble any of us." Chris put his arm around his sister.  "What are we gonna do with these two stubborn men?" ****** The first thing Roy was aware of was the smell of antiseptic as his foggy brain worked its way back to consciousness. He tried to open his eyes but the lids felt like they were taped closed. He tried to move his arms, but like his eyelids they too were too heavy to move. He could hear the swish of the ventilator as it aided with his breathing and the blip of the EKG as it monitored his heart rhythm. In the background he could hear faint voices. As he mind began to wake more, he remembered the heart surgery. Then he remembered he wanted to see his friend when he woke up. Again Roy tried to force his eyes open and move his arms, but none of his body parts cooperated. Then he heard Johnny's voice. "Doc, I think he's coming around?" Johnny said before grasping onto Roy's hand. "It's okay Roy. You did fine. You're gonna be okay," he said to his friend. Morton stepped over beside Roy and began to examine his patient. "The surgery was a success, Roy. You're gonna be okay now. I want you to relax until the drugs wear off some more, then you'll be able to open your eyes." Roy was unable to respond to either man, but just hearing their voices, he relaxed. Morton noticed Roy's heart rhythm on the EKG leveled out to a strong steady rhythm. This told him that Roy heard him. He smiled. "I'll leave you with Johnny. I will check in with you a little later, my friend," he said before walking away. Johnny then moved his chair closer to the gurney and he re-took Roy's hand. "I told you that everything would be okay. Bailor is one of the best. Morton was there too. Even Brackett put on his scrubs, something he hasn't done in a couple years now and came to the OR suite to be with you. How's that for having a great team?" he said. Johnny became misty eyed. He used his free hand to wipe them away. The attending nurse noticed and handed Johnny a tissue. He mouthed a thank you to her. She smiled and nodded before taking her spot at the desk to continue working on Roy's chart.  Once Johnny had his tears wiped away and felt his voice wouldn't betray him, he again spoke. "Morton and Bailor both want to leave you on the vent for a while. In about an hour or so, once your body has fully wakened from the drugs, you'll be moved back into CCU. Then you can see JoAnne. She's been patiently waiting in my office. She's quite a lady, Roy. I know I've told you that before, but I wanted to remind you of that fact. The strength she possesses is phenomenal, a true firefighter's wife. You're a lucky man to have her in your life," he said. Once again, Johnny could feel tears threatening to escape from his eyes. He opened his hand that he held the crumpled tissue in and used it to wipe his eyes. The drugs wore off enough for Roy to crack his eyes open a bit. Roy tried to move his head, but still found it difficult to do so. He settled for continuing to lie on the stretcher and listen to the comforting words from his old friend. Once composed, Johnny again spoke to Roy. "I don't want you to worry about anything, Roy. Between Chris and I, we will do what ever needs to be done. All you need to do is concentrate on getting back onto your feet and out of this gin joint," he said. Suddenly he felt Roy slightly squeeze his hand. Johnny smiled. He squeezed Roy's hand in return. "You're doing good Roy. It won't be long and your body won't feel like it's frozen. Then once Bailor checks you over, you'll be on your way to CCU. I know of one special lady who can't wait to see you. Katie Roo, as you call her. Bailor and Morton don't want her to visit for several days, but I'll find a way to sneak her into your room. She misses her Poppie. Right now Hank and his wife are looking after her for us. Hank bought her a new Pooh Bear yesterday. I told him he didn't have to. Do you know what he ended up telling me? He said he didn't have to but he wanted to and that he had more stripes on his uniform than I did, so there was nothing I could do about it. You know Roy, he always had a way of taking charge and at the same time he was a good friend to all of us when he was our Captain. I admire him, a great deal." Roy squeezed Johnny's hand again. Johnny looked at his friend, whose eyes were wide open at this point. He smiled. "Hello," he said, "It's good to see those bright blue eyes of yours again. You and Kaitlin have the same eyes, you know. I know both Chris and Jenny's eyes are blue, but they are not the same blue like yours and Kaitlin's." Before Johnny could say anymore, the attending nurse interrupted. "Dr. Bailor is due in a couple of minutes. I'm afraid you'll have to leave so he can examine his patient. We should be moving him to CCU right afterwards, so you can see him again then," she said. Johnny nodded. "You hear, Roy. They are kicking me out for a bit," he said. Johnny gave Roy's hand another squeeze. "I want you to listen to the doc and not worry. I'll see you in a few in CCU." Due to the vent, Roy was unable to move his head much. He gave a slight nod and squeezed Johnny's hand. Johnny smiled, patted Roy's hand. He then picked up his cane and carefully moved away from the stretcher and then out the door. Once out of the recovery room, Johnny leaned up against the wall, closed his eyes tight, and sucked in a deep breath. Pain shot through his entire leg. Chris was waiting for Johnny just down the hall from recovery/surgical suite. He continually kept his eyes on the door. He saw Johnny walk out of the room and lean up against the wall. He could sense distress in his brother in law. Remembering his conversation with his sister earlier, he figured Johnny's hip was troubling him in a major way. Johnny closed his eyes as he leaned against the wall.  The strain of the last several days took their toll on him.  He didn't notice Chris standing at the end of the recovery suite. Chris didn't want to disturb Johnny, but he needed to know how his father was doing. "Johnny?  Did you see him?  How is he?"  Chris asked Johnny in a voice that reminded him of the young boy he used to play games with. Johnny opened his eyes and stared at his brother-in-law.  "Chris, he's doing okay.  Morton said the surgery went fine.  They'll be moving him to CCU in about a half-hour.  We can visit him there."  Johnny paused and shifted his weight.  He put his arm around Chris.  "Why don't we find those two pretty DeSoto women and tell them the good news.  Then, there are tons of people we have to call." So the two men went to Johnny's office.  He saw JoAnne sitting at his desk using his computer.  Jenny was sitting on the couch staring off into space. Looking at JoAnne, Johnny spoke.  "JoAnne, he's okay.  The surgery was a complete success.  I saw Roy and spoke to him.  I even got a little smile from him.  Bailor is checking him out and then they'll move him to CCU.  They'll call us when we can go up to visit." "Oh thank you Lord."  JoAnne said.  Jenny stood up and went to Johnny and hugged him. "Well, we've got lots of people who want to know how Roy's doing, so why don't we start calling them. *** "Now Kaitlin, remember what I told you.  Little girls are not really supposed to be in this part of the hospital, because these people are really sick and need to rest.  When I bring you in there to see Poppie, you have to use your soft voice.  Do you understand young lady?"  Johnny asked his little daughter. "Yes Daddy."  Kaitlin was in Jenny's arms, as the two prepared her for her visit to Roy.  It was four days after the operation.  Although Roy was healing, he was very moody.  Everyone thought a visit from his Katie Roo would cheer him up.  Since Johnny was a respected member of Rampart, he was able to get permission for Kaitlin to visit her Poppie." "Do you have any questions before I take you in?" "Daddy, will Poppie play with me when he all better?"  Kaitlin's blue eyes looked intensely into her father's. Johnny laughed.  "Well Kitty Kate, you'll just have to ask him.  Now remember not to touch anything and when I say we have to leave I don't want any arguments." Johnny took his daughter into his own arms.  Everyone thought it would be best if Johnny brought Kaitlin in.  Jenny would wait outside and visit her Dad afterwards. Johnny was about to enter the ward when Kaitlin said, "Daddy, I need my Pooh!"  Jenny heard her daughter and walked to Johnny and gave the stuffed animal to her daughter. Johnny, balancing his daughter on his good hip and using his cane, walked into CCU.  All of the machines making noises distracted Kaitlin from seeing all the sickness around her.  They walked over to Roy who was sleeping in his bed.  When Kaitlin saw Roy her body tensed with excitement.  Her little feet kicked out.  Before waking him, Johnny put his hand on Kaitlin's back. "Kitty Kate, don't kick Daddy." He said softly.  Whispering like only a child can do, Kaitlin said, "okay Daddy." Roy heard the little voice and he opened his eyes.  Seeing his Katie Roo, Roy smiled. "Hi Katie Roo."  Roy said. "POPPIE!" "Shhh!" Johnny said.  "Remember what we talked about?" "Sorry Daddy!"  She flashed her crystal blue eyes at her father and he melted. "Kaitlin, I'm gonna put you on the edge of Poppie's bed and I'm gonna sit in the chair.  Remember, don't touch anything." And Johnny did what he told his daughter he would.  Roy shifted a bit in his bed.  The healing incision in his chest made him grimaced. "Whats matter Poppie?" Roy looked at Johnny, no knowing what he could say.  Seeing Roy's indecision, Johnny spoke up. "Kaitlin, Poppie has a bad booboo here."  He pointed at his own chest.  "It goes from here to here."  Again Johnny demonstrated.  "So when Poppie moves, it hurts." "Oh, okay."  Kaitlin said.  She continued, "Daddy said I can ask you when we can play.  Can we play tomorrow?" Roy smiled remembering similar conversations he had with Jenny so many years ago.  "No, not tomorrow.  I'm still gonna be here for awhile.  But when I'm home, we'll see.  Is that okay with you, Katie Roo?"  It seemed that just saying all of this, tired Roy out. "Okay Poppie.  When you home we play and read." Roy started to cough and held his chest because of the pain.  Johnny knew there was nothing he could do to help his friend, as this was all part of the healing.  Kaitlin saw her Poppie in pain. "What's wrong Poppie?" "It's just my booboo, like your Daddy told you.  It hurts when I cough." Kaitlin made a face as she was thinking.  She handed her Pooh bear to Roy.  "When I hurt, Momma gives me my Pooh.  I no hurt now, so you keep Pooh 'til you better."  Roy took the bear from his granddaughter's hand.  Johnny smiled as his eyes misted over.  The unconditional love of his child overwhelmed him. Roy looked at the stuffed bear and smiled.  "Is this a new Pooh?"  Just as Johnny knew everyone of Jenny's Barbie dolls, when she was growing up, Roy knew every Pooh that Kaitlin had. "Mr. Stanley bought Pooh for me.  He is tall."  Kaitlin demonstrated by lifting her arms over her head. Roy smiled.  "Yes he's tall." Johnny looked at his watch and saw they were there for ten minutes.  He didn't want to tire Roy out. "Okay my Kitty Kate, we're gonna say goodbye to Poppie.  And since you were so good today, I know I can bring you back again."  Johnny reached for his cane and stood up.  He picked his daughter up.  "Roy, Jen will come in a little later."  Roy shook his head.  Johnny started to leave when Kaitlin whispered something in his ear.  Roy saw Johnny stop and turnaround.  Johnny walked back to Roy and bent down so his daughter could kiss her Poppie bye. No words had to be said.  Everyone in the CCU watched this simple moment of tenderness. *** Roy was home from his surgery and settled into his new routine.  After being home for over a month, JoAnne new she had to start Roy on his road to recover. "Are you ready to go for our walk, Roy," JoAnne asked when she entered the living room. Roy glanced up from the book he was reading and glanced at his wife. "No. I don't feel like it tonight." "Roy, this is the third night in a row that you haven't felt like it. You know Dr. Bailor wants you to walk, to strengthen your heart." "I don't care what Bailor wants. I don't want too go for a walk and I won't," Roy said raising his voice. "Okay, Roy, we don't have to go for a walk," JoAnne said trying to calm her husband. Walking over to the sofa, she sat down. "To be honest, I don't feel like it either, tonight. I'm kinda tired after being in school all day." Roy tossed his book aside. He suddenly lost interest in reading. Instead he gazed out the window. He didn't even try to engage in conversation with his wife. JoAnne studied her husband briefly. She recalled the conversation Dr. Bailor had with her before Roy's release from the hospital. About the possibility of depression setting in from having his life suddenly changed. In the beginning, JoAnne had a hard time believing that Roy, because he was such a strong person, would sink into a depression.  But since the day they arrived home she noticed small changes in her husband's demeanor. Little things, like refusing to dress and undress in front of her. JoAnne believed it was because he no longer sported his thick chest hair that she loved to run her fingers through when they laid in bed together during the afterglow of their love making.  She also thought that the incision scar that was going to be forever present for the remainder of his life bothered him too. Once Dr. Bailor cleared him to resume his sex life, he showed no interest. At first JoAnne was a bit put off, but she understood. She hoped if she gave him enough time, that he would resume that part of their life. It also took a good week to convince Roy to take the daily walks Bailor suggested he do, to strengthen his heart and circulatory system. Now, after being home for a little over a month, he started refusing to leave the house. In fact he was spending more time sitting in his favorite chair, reading, watching TV, or staring out the window. Jenny told JoAnne the day of Roy's surgery, that he might become afraid to exert himself. JoAnne was adamant that Roy feared nothing. JoAnne wasn't so sure anymore. She felt like she was loosing her husband and she was powerless to stop it. "Roy. Jenny and Chris want to plan a birthday party for you. They would like to invite all your friends over. I thought that…" "I don't want a birthday party. I don't need to be reminded about how old I'm going to be this year." Roy snapped. "Roy. Sweetie. You're not old. I think it would be fun. It's been a long time…" "JoAnne. What part of the word 'no' don't you understand? Tell the kids I don't want it," he said harshly before getting out of his chair. He then walked toward the stairs. "Where are you going?" JoAnne asked. "To bed. I want to rest," he said without looking at his wife. He then gingerly climbed the stairs. JoAnne sighed. "I wish there was some way to make you believe that you'll be okay," she whispered. *** No matter how much JoAnne tried, Roy settled into his routine.  He didn't exercise much and limited the amount of visitors that could come over.  Different members of his family tried to talk to him, but Roy demonstrated his pigheadedness.  *** One night Jen and Johnny were sitting in their living room.  Kaitlin was asleep and for once they had some time for themselves. "Ole man?" Johnny smiled and said in a mocking tone, "yes Angel?" Jenny was sitting at one end of their couch with her feet in Johnny's lap.  His left leg was over a pillow and his right foot was on the floor.  He took Jenny's foot and started to massage it. "Mmmmmmmm."  Jenny said.  She closed her eyes enjoying the sensation of the foot massage.  "Such strong hands."  She was lost in thought and Johnny decided to tickle her foot. "Hey!" "Well you wanted to ask me something so I had to get your attention somehow," he said with his devilish grin. "I'm worried about Dad.  Mom says he rarely leaves the house.  He barely exercises.  It seems he's afraid to live.  And, he won't baby-sit Kaitlin without her there." "I know, Jen.  But I don't know what any of us can do." "Mom said he hasn't even touched her since the operation."  Johnny looked at Jen, unsure of what she just said.  "Do you mean what I think you mean?" With an impish grin, Jenny said, "what do you think I mean?" Hemming and hawing, Johnny continued, "ya know, do what couples do…." "You mean have sex?" Johnny blushed. "It's okay Johnny, my parents have sex." "I can't believe I'm hearing you talk about your parent's sex life!" "Why, you guys never talked about it during your years at 51?" "No! "No?" "Never!  It's not something, ya know, we talked about."  Johnny thought for a minute and shifted.  "YOU MEAN YOU TALK TO YOUR MOTHER ABOUT," he paused and gestured back and forth between Jen and himself,  "US?" Jenny just grinned.  Johnny looked very uncomfortable and started to say something but Jenny started to giggle.  Johnny took a pillow and threw it at her. After the two got their silliness out of their system, Jenny continued.  "Dad has withdrawn from everything.  I think he should go for professional help, but there's no way he'd listen to me.  I could have a million medical degrees, but he'll always think of me as his little girl." Johnny replied, "you don't have to remind me of that.  I just think we have to give Roy more time to work it through.  An' I know he'll never go for counseling."  Johnny returned to massaging Jenny's feet. Jenny took the pillow and threw it at Johnny. "Hey, what's that for?" "When are you gonna make that appointment for the surgery?" "Don't know."  Johnny said, breaking eye contact with his wife. "Well, you better start thinking about it.  We've been through this before, Johnny.  We don't want to see you in pain." "We?" "Oops!"  Jenny said. "Jennifer."  Johnny said sternly. Did you tell your mother that too?" "And Chris."  Jenny said softly. "And Chris."  Johnny said mocking Jenny.  "Is there anything else you told them about us?" "Oh Johnny stop being ridiculous." "Ridiculous?  I'm being ridiculous?   I'm not the one who tells family secrets." Jenny sat up and removed her feet from his hands.  "Oh, so telling my family that you're not well is a bad thing.  Since when?  Do I have to remind you that they love you and only want you to be well?" Johnny lowered his eyes and said, "no.  Does your father know?" "No.  Mom figured out something was wrong the night of Dad's operation.  Chris overheard us talking here.  I asked them not to say anything to you.  But I want you to know John Gage, that they're worried about you.  They see you in pain and it hurts them because they can't help you because you won't let them know." Johnny saw that Jenny was annoyed.  "Gimme your foot back." "NO!" "Fine." The two were quiet for about five minutes, listening to the house settle. "Okay, I'll call Dr. Carlson tomorrow for a consult.  And we can talk to Chris and JoAnne about it.  But I don't want Roy to know, at least not now." Jenny smiled.  "I knew there was a reason I married you."  She put her foot back onto Johnny lap and proceeded to rub it into his groin.  This action got his attention and he moved to his wife.  He started kissing her but stopped and said, "don't tell your mother, about how, um, you get me, ah, turned on like that.  I don't think I can face JoAnne again if she knows all your tricks." Jenny took Johnny's head in her hands and said, "you didn't want me to tell her about how we used those breath mints the other night, either?" "JENNIFER DESOTO GAGE!" *** The phone rang. "Hi Dad." "Hi Jen." "Dad, I need a big favor.  There was an accident on the 405.  They need me to help out in the emergency room.  Can I bring Kaitlin over?  I don't know how long it will be." "I don't know Jen..." Roy trailed off. "Dad, it's really bad.  They have Johnny working in the ER too.  His students are also helping where they can.  Please Dad." "Okay Jen.  But please remind Kaitlin not to run around like last time." "Sure Dad.  I'll make sure Kaitlin behaves.  And thanks.  I should be over in ½ hour." Roy hung up the phone.  He wished JoAnne were home, so he wouldn't have to watch Kaitlin all by himself.  But he had Pooh videos that he could sit her down in front of. Roy started to straighten up the house when he heard the keys in the door. "Poppie!"  Kaitlin said as she ran to her granddad.  She hugged his legs.  Roy bent down and kissed her on her head. "Well hello their Katie Roo."  She giggled. "Dad, I owe you one.  I packed her bag with enough stuff, just in case she has to stay over.  I'll call when I have a chance."  She hugged her father and kissed him. "What department are you going to be in, Jenny?" "Emergency, Dad.  Johnny called me and said it was a 35 car pile up due to the fog." "Oh, I remember those.  We had one like that.  Be careful." "I will Dad."  Focusing on her daughter, Jennifer stood beside Kaitlin.  "Now young lady.  I want you to listen to Poppie and do what he asks you to do.  And please don't make him run around.  Daddy and I will pick you up as soon as we can.  Do we have a deal Kaitlin?" Kaitlin looked up at her mother and smiled crookedly.  "Yup!" "I don't trust that grin."  Roy said to his daughter and they both laughed.  Jenny kissed her Dad and took one last look at her daughter and left. "Poppie?" "Yes Katie Roo." "Why don't you play with me like before?" "Well, Katie Roo, come here and sit down with me and I'll explain."  The two walked over to the couch and Kaitlin got herself comfortable. "I think you remember I was very sick awhile ago.  Well, I'm trying to get better but that takes time.  When I'm back to my old self, we'll play like we used to.  Is that a deal?" Roy asked earnestly. Kaitlin shook her head and held out her hand.  "Deal." "Since it's a deal, I'm gonna give you this silver dollar as a payment."  He handed her the coin and she looked at it before putting it in her pocket. "Okay, we also settle deals here with milk and cookies.  Come with me into the kitchen." The two walked into the DeSoto's kitchen and Kaitlin settled on "her" chair. "Let's see what I got for us.  Grandma has chocolate chip or oatmeal cookies.  Which would you prefer?" "Chocolate chip!" "Okay, so that's what you'll have."  Roy took two cookies out and put them on a plate.  He went to the refrigerator and poured a glass of milk.  He was putting the plate and glass on the table when the phone rang. "Here you go, Katie Roo.  Lemme get that call."  Roy walked into the living room to get the cordless phone. "Hello?" "Hi Roy.  It's Johnny.  Is Jen still there?" "No Johnny, she left five minutes ago.  Jen told me it's a bad wreck." "Yeah, it is.  You should see it here.  I can't stay long.  I just wanted to know when she'd get here.  I guess thirty minutes.  Listen, thanks for taking Kaitlin." "Johnny, don't mention it.  I love little Katie Roo." "One of us will call later."  And Johnny hung up the phone. Roy took the cordless and walked back into the kitchen.  He dropped it when he saw Kaitlin lying on the floor, turning blue.  One of the cookies was missing from the plate. He ran over to her and his paramedic instincts took over.  He used his fingers to see if he could find the obstruction, without any luck.  He started artificial respiration to get some oxygen in her.  Right now, Kaitlin was just a victim.  Roy was totally detached from the fact that she was his granddaughter.  With the phone within reach, he used the speed dial and called Station 45. "Station 45, Firefighter Dooley." "Dooley, it's DeSoto.  I got my granddaughter here and something's wedged in her throat.  I can't get it out.  I need you and Stash here NOW." "Okay Cap, we're on our way." With the phone connection severed, Roy returned to supporting Kaitlin.  He felt for her pulse and it was slow and thready.  While waiting for the Squad to get there, Roy continued with the artificial respiration, but he started thinking about Kaitlin.  "Oh no, what if she dies?  Johnny will kill me.  I should have never agreed to baby-sit, not in my condition. I knew I couldn't handle this. What was I thinking?  She's gonna die, because I just can't keep up with her anymore.  It's all my fault." While these thoughts were running through his mind, Squad 45 appeared.  Scooping up the tiny life, Roy ran to the door. Dooley and Stash came in and took Kaitlin from Roy's arms. Dooley opened Kaitlin's mouth and probed for the obstruction.  He couldn't find it.  Stash got the ventilator ready and Dooley got on the horn to the hospital. "Rampart, this is Squad 45," said Dooley "Go ahead 45." "We have a two and half year old female with an unknown object lodge in her throat.  We are force ventilating now." "How long was she without oxygen?" Roy indicated one minute, the amount of time he was on the phone with Johnny. "Less than one minute Rampart." "Continue the oxygen and get her in here right away." Dooley looked up at Roy who was watching the whole scene unfold in front of him.  Stash continued with the oxygen.  An ambulance was heard in the background. "I'm going in with you and don't give me any grief." "No Sir."  Dooley said. The attendants came in and loaded Kaitlin unto the gurney.  Roy ran along side as the placed her into the ambulance. Dooley rode in with Kaitlin and Stash drove the squad. When they got to Rampart, Roy could see how busy the emergency room was.  The doors to the ambulance opened.  Dooley and Roy took the gurney out.  A nurse Roy was not familiar with motioned them to go to treatment three. Roy walked into the room.  The unknown nurse took his arm to ask him to leave. "I'm staying here," he stated firmly. Dr Brackett walked into the room.  He was helping out the ER due to the traffic accident. In a startled voice Brackett said, "Roy, what happened?" "She's got something lodged in her throat."  Roy instinctively moved to the gurney to help Brackett.  This was an old habit that Roy did during his many times in the emergency room. It didn't matter that he wasn't an active paramedic.  Brackett trusted him.  Adjusting the light Brackett opened the little girl's mouth and used a scope throat. "I see it.  It looks like a coin."  Give me the forceps, Roy.  And he did what was asked of him.  Stash and Dooley stood by, just in case they were needed. Brackett using the forceps gingerly was able to pull the silver dollar out from her throat. "Oh no."  Roy said.  "I gave that to her.  I never thought she'd try to eat it." No one replied to Roy's statement.  And he backed away from the table. "Stash, get me a new set of vitals.  Does John or Jen know she's here?"  Brackett asked. Roy gently shook his head. "No," he answered. "Well John is at the base station.  I think Jen is up in surgery assisting."  Brackett looked at Roy who was pale.  "Roy, are you okay?" Roy didn't respond at first.  But he nodded his head and softly said, "Yeah, I'm okay." "Go get John and bring him here.  I'm going to need his consent." Roy acknowledged Brackett's order and left the room.  He walked over to the base station and saw Johnny inside, sitting on a stool.  After Johnny was finished on the call he looked up and saw Roy standing there.  He got up and left the base station.  The buzzer started announcing another transmission.   Johnny motioned for a nurse to take his place. "Roy, what are you doing here?  Are you okay?  You look pale."  Johnny didn't even think about Kaitlin. "Johnny."  Roy paused.  "It's Katie Roo. She swallowed a coin and I couldn't dislodge it.  She's in treatment room three.  Brackett's with her." Johnny grabbed his cane and ran as best as he could to the treatment room.  Roy quickly followed. Johnny opened the door and saw his littlest angel, his Kitty Kate, on the table.  He started to panic when he saw how ashen she looked. "Johnny, she'll be okay.  I want to run some tests on her."  Brackett said. Johnny looked around and saw Stash and Dooley in the room too.  Johnny said to Dooley, "Is this the choking victim you called in?" "Yes Sir." "You should have told me."  Johnny said under his breath, but he knew it wouldn't have made any difference. "Doc, do whatever you need to do."  The adrenaline of the day was wearing off on Johnny.  He started to feel weak.  Roy noticed his friend's demeanor and walked over to him and grabbed his arm and walked him over to a stool. "Are you okay Johnny?" Johnny looked up at Roy and said nothing, but his eyes asked why. "Roy, why don't you take Johnny to his office.  I'm gonna run some tests.  She's going to be okay.  From what I know she wasn't deprived of oxygen.  Roy performed artificial respiration.  She's going to be okay," Brackett stressed.  "As soon as I know something, I'll come to your office.  I'll check on Jennifer and tell her what happened and tell her where to find you." Roy answered, "Okay doc.  I'll take care of him." Roy took Johnny's arm and led him out of the treatment room.  They slowly walked through the busy emergency room toward the elevator.  Roy looked at Johnny and thought he aged ten years. They got to Johnny's office and walked inside.  This was the first time that Roy was ever in his office.  While Johnny sat down and stared out the window, Roy got a chance to see Johnny's office. Roy looked at all of the pictures on the wall.  Johnny had pictures spanning twenty years, including their lives as paramedics, and Roy as a Captain.  He also saw pictures of Chris and Jennifer at different stages of their lives.  On the final wall, there were pictures of Johnny & Jen and pictures of Kaitlin.  Seeing all of these pictures put a lump in Roy's throat. Johnny was biting his thumb and Roy was looking at the photos.  Jennifer came into his office in a panic.  She saw her father there. With her voice quivering she asked, "Daddy, what happened?" Roy looked at his daughter.  "It's all my fault.  I gave Katie Roo a silver dollar.  She put it in her pocket.  We sat down for milk and cookies.  I got a phone call and when I was done with that, I saw her on the floor."  Johnny looked up when Roy said a phone call.  He knew the call was his. "Roy, it's not your fault.  Come on, you of all people know the kinda trouble kids get into.  Hell, remember I wanted to write a book about it?" "It still doesn't excuse me from not paying attention." Roy said sadly. Jenny walked over to her father and hugged him.  "Daddy, Brackett says she'll be okay.  From what Stash and Dooley said, Kaitlin wasn't deprived of any oxygen.  You knew what to do." "Yeah, Roy.  Don't beat yourself up."  Johnny chimed in. *** It made Roy feel good that Kaitlin only had to stay in the hospital the one night. Brackett kept her there as a precaution. Both Jenny and Johnny stayed at the hospital with their daughter. Somehow, Dixie arranged for a semi- private room giving the family some privacy. She also had a cot brought in and with the spare bed; everyone had a spot to sleep. Roy called JoAnne from the hospital and filled her in. He assured her that Kaitlin was okay and there was no need for her to come to the hospital. He told her that Hank would drop by to drive him home and he'd see her at the end of the day when she finished her class. When Roy arrived home, he didn't sit in his favorite chair like he always did. He walked into his den and sat down at his desk that now held the computer. He fingered the PC and smiled. He was pleased that JoAnne took such an interest in something outside the DeSoto family. He even encouraged her to take a course, partly because she always supported him with his career and because he loved her. On the wall opposite his desk was a huge hand built bookcase. It held many hard and soft cover titles. Getting up from the office chair, Roy walked over to the bookcase. His eyes scanned over the bindings. When he found what he was looking for, he pulled the book from the shelf. Fingering the cover, he smiled. "I know this is a bit out dated, but I'm sure most of it contents are still part of the paramedic program." Roy walked out of the den and into the living room then headed toward his favorite chair. Once he got settled, he opened the manual and began to refresh his memory. ***** "Actually, Jen, believe it or not, your Dad and I went for a walk tonight. We just got back." "That's great Mom. Where's Dad?" "He's in the den now. Chris gave him some updated paramedic manuals and he's been making notes. He's gonna take that refresher course Chris suggested." "That's great, Mom. I have some good news too." "What?" "We have a date for Johnny's surgery." "For when?" "The soonest date Dr. Carlson could schedule him happens to be on Dad's birthday. The next open date is December 5th. These dates are only because of cancellations. Dr. Carlson is heavily booked. I guess when you're the best, everyone wants to use you." "Johnny's gonna go through with it, isn't he?" "I don't know Mom. He's being stubborn again. Like Dad, Johnny's got some reservations about this birthday thing." "Oh that's ridiculous. Doesn't he realize he's already put the surgery off for too long? I mean Roy is okay now.  He's beginning to act a bit like his old self again. You tell that husband of yours if he doesn't take the first available date for his surgery, I'll drag him to Rampart myself." Jenny laughed. "That would be funny mom. Watching you drag a kicking and screaming John Gage to the hospital." "You know what I mean, Jen. Johnny's been in pain for far too long and now that we know Roy's okay, he needs to take care of himself. He has to remember, you need him and so does Kaitlin." "I know Mom. Maybe you could tell him that, for me." "I will. Is he home?" "Yes, but he's soaking in the tub. His hip is really bothering him tonight." "I'll tell you what Jen. Tomorrow is Saturday. I'll come out to visit and I'll use my motherly tone with him." "Thanks Mom. Look I have to go. Kaitlin just walked into the kitchen." "Okay sweetie. I'll see you tomorrow." Once JoAnne hung up the phone, she jumped when she heard Roy's voice behind her.  "Do you want to tell me what that phone call was all about?" JoAnne looked at her husband with apprehension in her face. Never, since the day she met Roy, had she ever kept anything from him, that is until now. "Jen called to tell me about Johnny." "And what about him?" "Roy, I really don't…" "JoAnne. Don't try to keep anything from me. I'm not made of glass and my heart is okay now. What's wrong with Johnny?" Roy asked with growing concern. "He needs surgery, hip replacement surgery. He's needed it for sometime now. In fact he would have had it done in September, but with your heart attack, he postponed it. He didn't want to be a burden to anyone with you out of commission." Roy pulled a chair out and sat down. "How long have you known about this?" "Since the day of your surgery. I noticed he was having trouble walking and seemed to be in pain, so I asked Jen about it. She told me that when he was shot eight years ago there was more damage than any of us knew about. He didn't want anyone to worry about him, so he remained silent. Roy, he's been suffering with a lot of pain for sometime now." Roy shook his head. "Damm him!  If it was anyone other than John Gage… So he put his surgery off because of me." "Yes. Jenny asked him not to, but Johnny is so stubborn. He's gonna be laid up for a long time. He won't be able to drive or do many of the things he now does. He'll need a fair amount of care and help. He'll have to have physical therapy. He'll need his family in a major way." "When was I gonna be informed about all of this?" Roy questioned drumming his fingers on the table. JoAnne sighed." Johnny wanted to wait until he had a date for his surgery and then he was gonna tell you." "So, I assume he has a date?" "Yes, sort of." "What do you mean, sort of?" "Dr. Carlson, the orthopedic surgeon, has an opening in November. Your birthday to be exact." "And he doesn't want to go through with it on my birthday." "No. And the next available date is December 5th." Roy stood. He walked out of the kitchen without a word and upstairs to his bedroom. He grabbed his wallet and keys from off the dresser and then returned to the main level of his home. "Where are you going, Roy " "I'm going out to the ranch.  I'm gonna have a talk with that son-in-law of mine.  I'll be back," he said grabbing his jacket out of the coat closet before walking out the front door. *** Roy drove to the Gage's ranch.  He thought about how he'd approach the surgery with Johnny.  He was thinking about how bullheaded Johnny was.  And then it dawned on Roy.  Johnny was acting the same way he was prior to his heart attack.  He didn't want to show weakness.  It was something men from their generation never showed. Roy pulled into the driveway and saw Johnny and Jennifer sitting outside.  When they saw Roy they both stood up. "What's wrong Dad?"  Jenny asked. "Where's Kaitlin?"  Roy said. "She's upstairs sleeping?  Why?"  Johnny asked. "Oh I need to yell at a certain son-in-law and I don't want my granddaughter to hear her Poppie yell and say bad words." "Yell at me.  Yell at me?  For what?  What did I do?"  Johnny asked with his hand splayed on his chest. "Oh no, you heard Mom on the phone." "You're damn right I did." Johnny looked at Jennifer.  "Were you talking about my surgery with your Mom?" "Now Johnny, don't get angry with me.  She asked and I told her."  Jenny didn't want to admit that she brought it up.  "That's right Johnny, don't get angry with her, cause I'm angry with you!" Roy snapped.  He continued, "how long were you gonna keep this from me?  You know, you remind me of me a couple of months ago, ignoring the warning signs.  What, are you gonna wait until there's more atrophy?  And this thing about no surgeries on birthdays has to stop!" Johnny started to laugh.  He hugged Jennifer. In a huff Roy asked, "what's so funny." "I thought my Angel here told JoAnne something else that she promised not to.  "JOHNNY!"  Jennifer said, blushing. Roy was confused and didn't know what Johnny was referring to. Johnny saw Roy's confusion and continued, "okay Roy.  I'll call Carlson in the morning and take the date."  Johnny walked over to the porch chair and sat down.  Roy joined him. "I'm gonna get us some lemonade."  Jenny said as she walked inside.  She knew her father and her husband needed sometime alone. The two men sat in silence.  Jenny came out with the glasses, but walked back inside. Roy took a sip and put the glass down on the wicker table. "You know Junior, you should have told me." "Yeah, like you shoulda told me about your condition.  We're not that kind of people."  Changing the subject Johnny continued, "Chris told me you're gonna go for recertification.  That's good." "Yeah, but I don't know what I can do with it.  That incident with Katie Roo really scared me, so I thought I should brush up.  I know there'll be other times when you two go away and Jo and I baby-sit.  It's best that I know.  Plus I want to reclaim my title of best retired paramedic in LA County."  Roy said and chuckled. "Roy, about that retired…..I was thinkin." "Oh, now we're in trouble." Johnny grimaced.  "Roy, why don't you take my classes while I'm recuperating.  I got the lesson plans done so all you'd have to do is apply for the temporary teaching job.   Why didn't I think of that before?" Roy thought about what Johnny just said.  "Do you think I can do it?" "Roy, I have no doubt you can do it.  Sure these kids are wiseguys sometimes, but they have the same drive and determination.  You should sit in on some of my classes to see what goes on.  Hell, you might learn something."  Johnny said smiling. "Me learn something?  Are you kidding?  I taught you everything I know!" "So will you think about it, Roy?" "Yes, Junior, I'll think about it." "Thanks, Dad." The two-lapsed back into silence, sipping their drinks. Roy spoke up.  "What made you laugh before?" Johnny grinned.  "Oh, our two women talk about our, um, private activities." Roy thought about what Johnny just said.  "THEY DO?" "Yup, they do." Roy was quiet for some time.  "I guess that explains where JoAnne learned about those breath mints." Roy looked over at Johnny, noticing him blushing furiously.  "Yup, looks like that's where she learned about them all right." *** It was the night before the operation.  Johnny put Kaitlin to sleep that night and spent time with her, watching her fall asleep.  He had a difficult time keeping his emotions in check.  He knew not to worry about the surgery.  However, Johnny was in the medical field long enough to know what can go wrong.  He knew Dr Carlson was the best.  Even Kel Brackett said, he'd watch over Carlson, which made Johnny laugh.  Johnny just wanted to spend a bit more time with his two angels. He bent over Kaitlin and kissed her forehead. "The way you're snuggled under those covers, Kitty Kate, you remind me of Roo snuggled down in his momma's pouch," he said with a smile. Johnny picked up his cane and stood up.  He looked at his cane - the walking stick that he used off and on for the last five years.  He hoped he would be able to retire the cane forever.  He took one last look at his daughter and left her bedroom. He walked to the living room where Jenny was sitting.  There was a small fire going in the fireplace.  Jenny had candles lit too.  There were no other lights in the room. Johnny walked down the stairs and sat on their oversized couch.  Jenny didn't look up as she was staring at the fire. "Okay ole man, what are you thinking?"  Jenny inquired. "Oh, everything and nothing."  Jenny looked at Johnny.  He leaned back into the couch.  Jenny moved over to Johnny and sat between his legs, resting her body against his chest.  The two stared at the fire. "Are you worried about tomorrow?" "Nah." "Then what is it?" "It's what follows.  It's the pain from the surgery.  It's the physical therapy.  It's how we're gonna get by." "We've been through that Johnny.  Mom, Dad and Chris are gonna help.  Plus you're old buddies from 51.  I even heard that Chet offered to help." "Oh yeah, just what I need.  The phantom will put crazy glue on the wheel chair."  Johnny said with a slight laugh. Jenny sat up and looked at Johnny.  "You are going to be okay.  We are going to be okay.  It's about time you let us take care of you."  She elbowed him in the stomach. "Ow.  What's that for?" "Well, considering I won't be able to do that to you for a couple of weeks, I figured to do it now."  Jenny sat back into the arms of her husband. Whispering in Jenny's ear, Johnny said, "you know what else we're not gonna be able to do for a coupla of weeks…..?" Jenny turned her head to the side as Johnny started to nibble on her ear. "Mmmmmm and what would that be, ole man?" Johnny wrapped his arms around his Angel.  "We're not gonna be able to do this."  He started to caress Jenny's arms. "And what else won't we be able to do," Jenny said breathlessly." "Why don't we go upstairs and I'll show you." Jenny got up quickly and ran to the stairs.  "Only if you can catch me!" Johnny was surprised by Jenny's quick action.  He reached for his cane, blew out the candles and hobbled upstairs.  "Hey, that's no fair!  You cheated."  He said as he walked into his bedroom and closed the door. *** Roy and JoAnne lay snuggled in the afterglow of their lovemaking.  JoAnne, traced the length of Roy's scar that was barely visible with his chest hair that grew back in around it. Roy leaned over and kissed the top of his wife's head. "You're so quiet tonight." "Just thinking," she said placing a kiss on his sternum. "About?" Roy asked. "About this, us. I'm happy to have you back. All of you." Roy tilted JoAnne's head up so he could look her in the eyes. "Me too, sweetie. I've missed this, us, but I was too damm..." "Stubborn to admit it and do anything about it," she finished for him. Roy chuckled. "You know me too well." "I guess I do," she answered. "Roy?" "Yes, sweetie." "We are so lucking to be getting a second chance." "Whaddya mean?" "You know, you're heart attack was caught in time. And now Johnny with his surgery." JoAnne shifted in the bed and looked at Roy.  "I know you begin teaching tomorrow, but will you be able to be there when Johnny wakes from his surgery?" "Of course. Morton and Brackett already took care of it. They arranged for someone to entertain my students while I stay with him in the Recovery room. You know that I wouldn't do any less for Johnny than he'd do for me." "Then you still do care?" Roy looked into his wife's eyes and nodded. "I do, but you have to promise never to tell him that?" "Why, Roy? Why don't you want him to know?" "It's a male thing, Jo. Besides, he knows, just like I do." JoAnne shook her head. "I don't know what I'm ever gonna do with the two of you and that stubborn male pride you both possess." Roy chuckled. "I guess you'll have to live with me the way I am because I'm too old to change." Reaching over, Roy turned off the lamp. He then pulled his wife snuggly back into his arms. Kissing her on the top of his head, he whispered, "Goodnight." "Goodnight," JoAnne whispered back before drifting off to sleep. *** Johnny stood at the back of his classroom and watched his best friend begin his first day as paramedic instructor. He smiled realizing that he and his best friend had come full circle. They started out as partners with the paramedic program and even with all the hard knocks life tossed them both; here they were paramedic partners again. "Good morning class. My name is Captain Roy DeSoto. I will be the paramedic instructor for the duration of this program." Roy paused then turned and reached for a manual that lay on his desk. He held it over his head and slowly moved it from one side of him to the other. "This will be the primary paramedic manual you will use during your training. Each of you will be expected to learn everything from cover to cover inside this book, and remember it. You will be tested at different intervals on the material you've learned." Again Roy paused then placed the manual back onto his desk before resuming his speech. "During this course, you will all be expected to maintain a grade level above 95%. At the end of the program you will write a certification exam. This exam will cover everything you've learned during the entire course. Again you will be expected to score a grade level above 95%. At this point, anyone who has completed all the requirements for the classroom portion of the training course will then be assigned to work with veteran paramedics for field training. Once you have successfully completed the field training, you will become a certified paramedic and will be given your assignment. Now that I have explained the basics of this course, does anyone have any questions?" Before the questions and answer session began. Johnny looked at Roy and gave him one of his patented grins, waved his hand and then walked out the door. He could see that this class was in good hands and would receive some of the best paramedic training LACo had to offer. Roy looked at his son in law; he smiled back at him and nodded before he left the room. Roy then looked at the show of hands. "Okay. You have all morning to toss questions to me that I will answer. Then this afternoon, I will take you on a tour of this hospital and introduce you all to various staff members who will play an important part in your training. Okay, I'm afraid it will take a day or two before I remember all of your names," he said. Pointing to a young woman in the front row, " Please, give me your name and ask your question?" he said smiling. "Hi, Captain DeSoto. My name is Debbie Reece. I was wondering…" With the door closed, Johnny could no longer hear what was being said inside the room. He walked a few steps down the hallway then stopped. He leaned up against the wall shifting his weight off of his left leg. He sucked in a deep breath trying to alleviate some of the pain that radiated from his hip all the way to his foot. Once the pain subsided some, he whispered, "It's good to have you back, Roy." He then gingerly walked to his office so he could put the finishing touches to some last minute things, including leaving Roy some important notes that his friend might find helpful while teaching. Before he was finished, his office door opened. Jenny walked in pushing a wheel chair. "Are you ready?" she asked. Johnny looked at his lovely wife and smiled. "I guess, as ready as I'll ever be. If Roy needs any advice…" "If Dad needs any advise, he can ask Morton, or one of the many other doctors that will be instrumental in teaching those fine young men and women to become paramedics. For the next few months, you will concentrate on you for a change and no one else. Understand?" "How did I ever get so lucky to find a woman like you?" Johnny said getting up from his desk and sitting into the wheel chair. "I guess it was just in the cards, ole timer." Jenny replied pushing her husband out of the room. "Wait." Johnny said. "What?" Jenny asked. "Lay my cane on my desk for safe keeping." Jenny did as Johnny requested then continued to push her husbands wheelchair to his hospital room. ***** Later that morning when the students broke for lunch, Roy stopped by the office before he joined his students in the cafeteria. Walking over to the desk he spied Johnny's cane. Placing his manuals and files on Johnny's desk, he picked the cane up and fingered the finely crafted stick. "Hopefully, my friend when this is all over and you are back on your feet, you won't need this anymore. I'm so damm sorry I never saw how much pain you were in all this time. If I had of known, well I'm sure you know what I would have done," he whispered. Roy then stood the cane in the corner next to Johnny's desk before he walked out of the room, closing and locking the door behind him. ******* Betty's comments - - Once again Janet and I have plunged into the E world of Jenny and Johnny relationship. Again we have shown multiple sides of the characters as Johnny and Roy continue to mend their strained relationship. They are aided by the actions of a small child, who helps to further strengthen their bond of friendship. Together, Janet and I inspired and encouraged each other as we created 'Second Chances'. Thank-you Janet. I enjoyed working on this project with you. Janet's comments - Thank you Mary Ann for letting us use Second Chances as it's title.  I know you wanted to name one of your stories that.  What more can I say about Betty.  She fills in those gaps I leave out and makse for a more round story.  Plus, she's fun to write with and has even lent me her shovels. return to main page.