DAVEY
CHAPTER FOURTEEN
Written by Trevor
Editor Jack
Proof Reader Richie
Breakfast at the hotel that Sunday morning was late but a happy affair with everyone still in wedding mode you might say. The Walkers with Davey in tow were just finishing breakfast when Johnny senior announced, "Do you know they have one of the best zoos in Texas right here in El Paso. They are busy initiating a breeding program for endangered species, what say we go and have a look today?"
Everyone agreed it was a great idea, so as soon as everyone had finished breakfast they set off. Indeed the zoo while still being developed and improved was indeed impressive and they had a great day there. Towards the end Davey began to get a bit tired and he and Johnny sat under a tree while the others carried on with the tour.
In just a few minutes flat Davey was asleep with Johnny's arm around him. That was how the rest of the family found them about an hour later both sound asleep. Jokingly Johnny senior said, "It's a wonder some zoo keeper hasn't come along to feed them because they both look as if they are endangered." Everyone laughed as the boys woke up wondering what was going on.
"Come on sleepy heads it's time to be going home for supper and I think because it's school tomorrow you two should have an early night." Peggy said.
The boys began to protest that they were all right but Peggy knew that Davey wasn't at all well.
Once they got back to the hotel Peggy went looking for Gloria to tell her Davey wasn't feeling too good and Gloria told her that she will take him for a check-up with Dr Whitmore.
Davey and Johnny went around the table saying goodnight to everyone. When Johnny kissed his father on the cheek wishing him goodnight, Davey hesitated before doing the same thing, wishing him goodnight and thanking him for a wonderful day out. The toughened army veteran was taken by surprise by Davey's actions at first before realizing that he and his son were a lot closer than he imagined and deeply in love if that was possible at that age.
"Goodnight Davey and you two behave yourselves and look after each other, mind each other's backs."
"We will dad." Johnny told him as they headed off to bed. Once in bed they lay in each other's arms and in a few seconds flat they were both asleep and didn't stir again until Gloria was banging on the door telling them it was time for breakfast and school.
Also having breakfast but in another part of the hotel was Garrett, Jake and the other guys. The three young guys who Garrett had asked if Edwin's attacker could have something happen too him in prison, approached the other two sitting at their table which was something they don't normally do.
"We've got some news for you and we had nothing to do with it." Both Garrett and Jake looked at them puzzled as the continued to explain, "We were just about to get a message inside to the gang members running the prison when we got word that your man you wanted killed, Jacob Wellings had been knifed in the back while taking a shower. It appears word got out at what he did and rape of any kind isn't very popular at any time in prison. Giving a young kid AIDS as well is not acceptable, so Mr. Wellings is no more. Of course no one knows who did it and I don't think the prison staff are too worried about it either, so you we didn't have to do anything at all to send him on his way."
Garrett thanked them for the good news as they went back to their usual table. Before breakfast was finished Dr. Jamieson, whose full name by the way is Keith Frank Jamieson, came in and sat down next to Garrett. "I have some good news for you young man, I have been able to arrange for you to work full time in the AIDS ward at Providence and also sleep there each night, in other words move in. So when you have finished breakfast, go to your room and pack a few things and we'll be on our way."
That news really thrilled Garrett but Jake was looking most down in the dumps. Dr. Jamieson spotted this and told him to not worry because he will arrange for him to come visit at least three times a week.
While Garrett and Jake made their way to their room for Garrett to pack, Davey and the rest of the other boys downstairs were leaving for school. Davey was feeling tired and Gloria would have been happier if he had taken the day off but he wanted to go. Mind you as soon as he had left for school she called Dr. Whitmore and arranged for an appointment for tomorrow right after school.
Davey and Johnny's day was pretty ordinary and boring and both of them were glad when it was over. As the day went on Davey was feeling more and more tired and by the last lesson he had trouble keeping his eyes open and Johnny had to nudge him a couple of times to keep him awake.
As soon as they got back to the hotel they went to their room and lay down on the bed. Davey was asleep almost right away,
It was almost midmorning by the time Garrett and Dr. Jamieson arrived at the hospital. While Garrett stowed his clothes and things away in a store room, Keith Jamieson went to talk to his partner Dr. Evans. Garrett walked down the ward and Edwin spotted him right away, smiling and waving before a bout of coughing made him stop. Once he reached his bed, Garrett hugged his friend before asking how he was. "Not too good Garrett I'm afraid my days are numbered and I don't want to die." He burst into tears still coughing and spluttering. He was shaking like a leaf and several staff members came to help him putting the screens around him.
Garrett had never prayed or even thought about God or even if he existed but right now he began offering prayers promising to do anything if only Edwin could be spared.
Dr. Evans came rushing up motioning for Garrett to hold Edwin's hand while he explained something to him. Edwin, I have been offered a new experimental drug for trial but I only have enough for one patient. After talking with the rest of the staff it was unanimous that we should offer this to you first.
Now this new drug is just that, very experimental and we have no idea if it will work on humans. The side effects may be worse than the cure. Since you have no legal guardians right now it is up to us at the hospital to decide, but I would rather leave the decision up to you and maybe Garrett will be able to help as well."
He went on to explain all about the drug and when he had finished he looked at both boys and without any hesitation they both nodded their heads in agreement. Once it was decided Dr. Evans told Edwin that he would prepare a drip in his arm to administer the drug which would be started with massive doses and then gradually reduced.
When he had gone to get everything ready the boys sat hanging on to each other not saying very much, too scared of the unknown to even think about what was happening. All Garrett cared about was anything that might save this poor boys life and he continued to offer up silent prayers.
Garrett almost forgot the good news he had for Edwin, he told him about his attacker being murdered in prison. This brought a smile to his face and I'm sure I won't meet him in heaven because he will be going to the other place." They both smiled at that idea just as Dr. Evans arrived back to put in the drip needle in his arm and to start the new drug.
Word had gone quickly round the ward about what was going on and how Edwin had been singled out to receive the new drug. Several patients came by looking daggers at Edwin and muttering under their breath. Some of them had even approached Dr. Evans complaining bitterly that they had not been chosen for the test of the new drug.
Dr. Jamieson was now going around the ward talking to some of the patients trying to make them understand why young Edwin had been chosen above them.
The coughing had stopped which was one good thing. Edwin was feeling sleepy which they were told was a side effect of the drug and he was soon sound asleep. So with the curtains still drawn around them, Garrett curled up in bed next to his sick friend and also fell asleep.
Back at the hotel Sally and Bethany was busy moving some of Bethany's stuff into Sally's room. Bethany had already given notice at her old Government job and was on holiday leave before starting work at the hotel on Monday.
They had already made several trips to Bethany's old apartment but were having trouble fitting everything into the one room. So Sally suggested that since Bethany is entitled to her own room and the one next to theirs is empty, why not use one as a bedroom and use the other as a sitting room. "What a great idea, you're not just a pretty face but pretty hot in bed too." Bethany said with a laugh.
So with much moving around of furniture, they had arranged everything just as they wanted, making themselves a nice cosy little apartment and love nest.
At school Davey was finding it harder and harder to concentrate on what was happening around him and actually fell asleep during his first class of the day. It was only once again Johnny giving him a nudge with his elbow woke him up. Come lunch time they got their meal as usual. Davey though just toyed with his food eating very little, with not only Johnny but Jacob and the other guys noticing this as well.
Jacob beginning to get really worried about his new kid brother and went and called Gloria explaining to her what was going on. It was arranged that on the way home Jacob would meet her at the hospital so she could take Davey in to see Dr. Whitmore while he took the rest of his passengers back to the hotel.
He explained this to Davey and Johnny when he got back to the table and Johnny agreed that was the best thing to do. "Jacob, he is a lot sicker than he makes out to be." He said holding onto his lover's hand despite being in the school cafeteria.
Back at the hospital as the experimental drug began to have some effects, Edwin went into a deep sleep almost a coma which worried doctors, nurses and of Garrett alike. However, a phone call to the drug manufacturers put their minds at rest when they were told that this was normal and he could be like that for a couple of days until his body was able to overcome the side effects this drug caused.
Dr. Evans was also told that tomorrow a couple of doctors from the company would be flying in for a couple of days to monitor Edwin. Unable to no longer control his bodily functions, he was continually soiling his bed linen and Garrett without thinking twice helped to change them whenever needed.
He still wasn't sure if he was gay, straight or bi but he did know for certain that he was in love with this poor unfortunate boy and anything he could do to make his life easier, he would, if only until the end.
Dr. Jamieson was watching Garrett closely from a distance and knew this was good therapy for him. He wasn't sure how Garrett would handle things if Edwin did die and even with the new drug this was still a strong possibility.
It was a normal working day for Luke and Pru. Luke was still struggling and doing battle with the finance department in city hall over the budget for his detectives. He knew if he didn't get what he was asking, some civilian staff members would have to be laid off, meaning that detectives would have to spend more time on paperwork in the office and less time out catching criminals.
Chief Falster too had several heated arguments with the Mayor and the financial people at city hall. Plus Paul Alverez, in charge of uniform branch, was in an even worse state. If the money Paul was requesting wasn't made available, then roughly a quarter of his uniform branch would have to be closed down including station houses, less vehicles on the road, and no civilian back up staff. Like Luke, this meant that Paul would have to have more police off the road doing paperwork.
Mind you all these worries at work had not stopped Luke and Pru's relationship from developing and becoming stronger, so much so that tonight Luke was taking Pru to their favourite restaurant for a special occasion.
As soon as the final bell at El Paso high rang, Jacob made his way to his vehicle to wait for Davey, Johnny and the rest of the guys. Davey was the last to arrive and was almost being carried by Johnny. Jacob helped lift him into the truck and they were soon at Providence hospital where Johnny insisted on getting a wheelchair for his boyfriend, much to Davey's disgust. Gloria was waiting for them and Jacob bid them goodbye before leaving to take the rest of the guy's home.
Johnny wheeled Davey into the doctor's waiting room and no sooner had settled down than they were called in to his office. Davey walked in with Gloria after getting out of the wheelchair and leaving Johnny waiting for him.
Between them Gloria and Davey explained all about the tiredness and lack of energy and Dr. Whitmore asked a lot of questions especially about the Karate school and the fact that he had begun training again for gymnastics. The doctor then examined Davey doing a very detailed exam right down to an inspection of his anus which still showed signs of scarring. He asked Gloria to wait outside before he began this examination explaining that he would call her and Johnny in when he had finished.
"It looks like you have obeyed my request and been careful with your relationship with Johnny not to take it all the way. Your wounds are healing but very slowly, but generally you are run down. I'll call your mom and boyfriend in before talking to you anymore, if that is all right with you?" Davey nodded his head in agreement and Dr. Whitmore went to the door calling Gloria and Johnny in.
Once they sat down he paused gathering his thoughts before speaking. "Davey is physically in reasonably good shape considering what he has gone through. His wounds are still showing a number of nasty scars which are not helped when Davey goes to the toilet. I will give you some cream for that which will help; just use it every time you have to go. I will also prescribe a general pick me up to try and help you get some of that energy back as well.
I would be happier if you didn't continue with your training for another month or so. If you do make it very light training, no weights or anything like that until you have seen me again in a months' time." He paused before continuing.
"The next thing I have to say you may not agree with Davey, but I feel a lot of your problems are in your mind. I have gone along way to help you get your body back in shape, but your mental state now needs expert attention and I have just the man right here in El Paso to help you.
Dr. Keith Jamison is a visiting psychologist from Britain here on exchange for twelve months and he is one of the best in his field. He is gay himself and I'm sure he wouldn't mind me telling you that anyway. I would like you to see him Davey. When I spoke to him about you he said that he would also like to have a chat with Johnny as well.
I took the liberty of making an appointment straight after school tomorrow for you, is that OK?" Davey looked hesitant and Gloria chipped in saying, "Yes of course it will be all right doctor and thank you very much for everything you have done for Davey here."
She stood up along with the other two shaking Dr. Whitmore's hand before walking towards the door. "Oh Gloria I just want to have a quick word with the two boys and then they'll join you outside."
Gloria nodded her head before going back into the waiting room while the two boys waited to see what Davey's doctor had to say, "I just wanted to say thank you both for showing restraint within your relationship and Johnny I ask you to be patient for another couple of months please."
Both of them blushed before nodding their heads, "That's all I wanted to say to you two and I will see you in a months' time Davey." They shook his hand before leaving and followed Gloria out to her car and back to the hotel just in time for their evening meal.
There was a message waiting for Gloria when she got back telling her that an appointment for Davey had been made for eleven in the morning at the hotel using one of the smaller reception rooms. Johnny of course wanted to know if he had to go to school or could he keep Davey company and the answer was a definite NO. Which upset the two boys but they accepted it. Davey was not looking very happy at all. As soon as the meal was over with him eating very little, he suggested to his boyfriend that they go to their room.
As usual they went round the table either kissing or hugging everyone goodnight which had become a bit of a family tradition. Once they reached their room Davey laid on the bed while Johnny suggested they get their homework out of the way. Davey just closed his eyes and at first Johnny thought he was asleep until he noticed tears rolling down his cheeks.
He moved over taking his lover in his arms, kissing him gently on the cheek and then on the lips whispering, "What's the matter, what's wrong?"
It was a while before Davey answered, "I'm never going to be any good for you Johnny. I think I'm always going to be sick or something and now Dr. Whitmore thinks I'm going mad and need a psychologist to sort out my brain. Johnny you'd be better off finding a normal boyfriend to love and forget about me, I'll never be any good, believe me."
"Don't talk like that Davey, I'll always be your boyfriend no matter what. Can't you understand that I love you with all my heart and I want to be with you for ever and never lose you?"
To make sure he got the message across, he began kissing him more forcefully and gradually felt his lover begin to melt into his arms. He didn't push the issue and take their love making any further, not that he wouldn't have loved to, but he was showing consideration for Davey who was exhausted and so run down.
He helped Davey to his feet almost carrying him to the shower where he undressed him before taking his own clothes off. Then they got into the shower, washing each other down and occasionally kissing and cuddling. Once they had finished, Johnny dried Davey off and then himself before helping his mate into bed before snuggling up close to him. They kissed goodnight and within seconds Davey was asleep. It took Johnny some time to close his because he was worried about his partner and what was going to happen with him.
Luke and Pru arrived at their favourite restaurant and were shown to a quiet table were a lovely bouquet of flowers was waiting for Pru, "Thank you darling I love them but what is the occasion?"
"For that you will have to wait just a little bit longer my darling, but right now let's order and eat because I am famished." Luke informed her.
Dinner was a quiet affair with not a lot of conversation between the two just the odd kiss across the table and a lot of holding of hands. Finally when they reached the coffee stage Luke stood up and moved in front of Pru before getting down on one knee. He produced a jewel box from his pocket before uttering those familiar words, "Pru will you marry me?"
Laughing Pru said just a few words, "Oh yes, Luke I will." The whole restaurant erupted into applause and cheers as Luke produced a beautiful diamond engagement ring from out of the box and slipped it on Pru's finger.
"Thank you darling that was wonderful." Pru said admiring the ring before several members of the staff came up to congratulate them, admiring the ring which had a cluster of three diamonds set in a heart shape and must have cost a fortune.
Both at the same time mouthed the words, "I love you" which made them burst out laughing. This is the happiest day of my life." Pru remarked before suggesting that they both call their parents to tell them the news.
Pru's mom and dad were delighted at the news suggesting that they come over on Saturday for a little celebration and bring Sally and her friend. Both of Pru's parents were having trouble accepting that Sally and Bethany were together. They had met them once but the relationship and the evening was strained.
Promising to be there they hung up, they then dialled Sally's number which took a while to answer because she and Bethany were in throes of making love. Sally was going to ignore it until she noticed it was Luke calling. When she heard the news she let out a shriek of delight causing Bethany to wonder what on earth was happening, "of course we'll be there on Saturday if we can both get off duty together but at least one of us will be there promise."
When they went to leave the restaurant and Luke went to pay the bill the owner told him that there was no charge and that was his engagement present to a wonderful couple. Thanking him they left to make their way home and a night of wonderful love making.
Edwin was still sleeping soundly and hadn't stirred since the drug he was injected with began to take effect. Garrett noticed that he had not coughed one bit since he got the drug and that was what had been tiring him out. Garrett curled up beside him and went to sleep holding on to his friend.
It was about two in the morning when he smelt that once again Edwin had messed himself and he immediately got a bowl with hot soapy water and a wash cloth before moving his friend around the bed so he could remove the messy sheets and pyjama bottoms to clean Edwin up. All the time Edwin never opened his eyes.
A nurse came rushing up scolding Garrett for not letting her know so she could help, but Garrett was quite happy to do everything himself for this poor guy. Once he was clean and fresh smelling and back into bed Garrett himself settled down thinking back that only a few months ago he would no more have thought about helping his fellow man than flying to the moon. Why is this happening to me? He began to wonder before he too went back to sleep.
One thing Garrett wasn't aware of was that in two days' time his mother's trial was due to begin and he was expected to testify. The district attorney hadn't contacted him yet but it was on his list to do so tomorrow. The trial was expected to drag on for a while and jury selection could very well take a couple of days.
Next morning Luke and Pru arrived at work early armed with refreshments and champagne. The first thing Luke did was send out e-mails to the Chief and Paul along with some of the office staff and other members of the police force that they both got on well with, inviting them to join him for lunch in the board room.
Pru spent most of the morning getting things ready for the big announcement while Luke spent all morning fending off curious staff members from the chief down wanting to know what was happening.
Finally lunch came around and slowly everyone gathered. Once all were assembled, the champagne was handed around and then Luke called for everyone's attention. "I'm sure you are all wondering what the occasion is and why I invited you all here. Well as you are all by now aware, Pru and I have been going steady for some time and we recently moved in together mainly to cut costs." Following that statement there was a lot of catcalls and comments but once they had died down Luke continued. "Last night I took our relationship one step further asking her to marry me and of course or should I sat thank goodness, she accepted. So this little gathering is to tell you all at the same time that we have made our relationship official,"
This statement was followed by a round of applause and cheers before Chief Falster called for quiet. "I can't say I'm surprised that Luke has popped the question and I would like to propose a toast to the happy couple. May they have a long and happy life together with lots of little Luke's and Pru's under their feet all the time." Everyone toasted them and all the ladies wanted to see the engagement ring while the guys congratulated Luke.
When he shook his hand Paul said, "Just think if she had said yes to another date after I took her out for the first time. When you arrived on the scene she might just have been mine."
"That's true, I remember you mentioning that to me in the early days, and all I can say is that the best man won." They laughed before finishing their drinks and heading off to their respective offices and work.
Later that day the chief called him asking when the date of the wedding was going to going to be. "That's something we haven't discussed yet Chief, so who knows when that will be, but be assured you will be one of the first to know and you and your family will be on the guest list. They chatted in general for a few more minutes before breaking the call.
Luke sat there for a few minutes thinking about everything that had happened in such a short space of time and wondered if he was taking everything too fast. Then he decided that if he didn't sweep Pru of her feet, such a beautiful and charming girl that she is, would be taken by someone else.
Davey woke up feeling a little bit better, but he didn't like the idea of shoving a finger coated in ointment up his ass every time he wanted to take a dump. With a smile on his face Johnny said, "Would you like me to do it for you?"
Laughing Davey replied, "No Thanks, that could lead to something more dangerous."
They went down to breakfast and it was there that Gloria reminded him that he had to stay home today and see Dr. Jamieson, while Johnny had to go to school. That idea took the smile right off their faces because both had forgotten all about that.
When it was time to go to school Davey and Johnny kissed each other goodbye and Davey stood in the parking lot as they drove away. He went back inside moping around until it was time to meet this famous doctor.
He was sitting in the TV room when this young looking quite cute guy came in and introduced himself. "Hi, I'm Keith Jamieson and I guess you must be Davey how are you?"
Shyly Davey shook the hand offered by Keith, "Fine thanks." He mumbled.
"Good, I hear from Doc Whitman that you've not been too well but hopefully you're on the mend. Look, lets go find somewhere quiet were we can have a little chat and get to know each other better."
He led Davey out to a small conference room on the ground floor and they sat side by side in easy chairs. Keith offered him a soda and got one for himself as well. They sat drinking their drink for a little while before Keith said, "I'd better tell you a little bit about myself. I'm English, over here for about twelve months on an exchange scheme and like you Davey I'm gay. My partner is also here on exchange working at the Providence Hospital.
He just an ordinary doctor not a shrink like I am and we've been together since our student days at college."
Davey looked at him admiring his honesty and the way he made you feel right at ease with him, "Now I believe you have a wonderful boyfriend Johnny Walker who has been a great help to you. Because since he moved in, your nightmares have just about stopped."
Davey was amazed that he knew so much about him as the doctor continued, "What I would like you to do Davey is give me a run down of your life story, trying not to leave anything out. I know this will be difficult for you and anytime you want to stop just say so and we will take a break. I don't want you to get too stressed with all this so take your time and don't worry, I am here to help you along the way."
For some strange reason, exactly like Garrett, he felt comfortable in talking to this guy and was soon unburdening everything that happened to him. Keith only stopped him now and then to ask a question, otherwise he let him ramble on non-stop. Several times they stopped when it was obvious Davey was becoming upset. Keith would then call a halt so they could have a breather. As soon as lunchtime came around they headed off to the dining room joining those left in the hotel for lunch. Then it was back to their own little conference room.
Davey was tired but didn't stop talking to this nice English guy. Finally when he got to the more recent happenings Keith called a halt. "I think that's enough for today don't you Davey?" He nodded his head in agreement beginning all of a sudden to feel very tired.
"We might continue this after school tomorrow if that's all right with you?" Again Davey agreed while the good doctor continued talking. "I'd also like to have a little chat with your boyfriend Johnny Walker. Now I have one very important question to put to you Davey and don't say yes just to please me. I am also looking after your aggressor Garrett Buchanan and if I tell you that he has changed, that would be a major understatement. However, I did ask him if further down the track if he would he meet you face to face and explain to you why he did what he did. What do you think of that idea Davey?"
Davey was horrified at that request and hung his head down mainly to hide some tears which were forming, "I don't know Keith, that's a big thing to ask of me after what he did, but if you think I should, then so be it."
"Don't worry about that for now Davey and let's call it a day so you can go out to the car park and wait for your boyfriend who should be here any minute. I'll go see my boyfriend at the hospital, sound like a good idea?"
Smiling, Davey agreed with him and they both walked out into the car park. True to his word the truck with the guys on board was just arriving. Keith continued walking to his car but watched closely as he always does at what was going on in the rest of the car park.
Johnny immediately ran over to kiss Davey asking him what happened as they walked hand in hand inside. Smiling and nodding to himself Keith Jamieson got into his car travelling to Prospect Hospital to check up on one of his other patients, Garrett.
Garrett was still sitting next to Edwin who was sleeping but not quite as deeply as yesterday. A couple of doctors from the drug company had arrived and were monitoring him closely. When they saw Garrett at Edwin's bedside holding his hand they demanded that Dr. Evans move him out of the way. Both the doctor and Garrett refused point blank, much to the visiting medico's disgust.
The amount of drug going into the young guy's veins was slowly being reduced after the initial massive dose and that is why Edwin was slowly coming out of his deep sleep. An hour after Dr. Jamieson arrived, Edwin finally opened his eyes looking around with a scared look on his face at the strange faces peering down at him. He began to panic until he saw Garrett sitting beside him and smiling. He said, "I'm hungry when's lunch?"
Laughing, Garrett explained that he had missed lunch, a supper, breakfast and another lunch. A nurse went to get him some sandwiches and a soda to keep him going until supper time. Garrett was pushed to one side as the doctors examined their patient extensively, while asking numerous questions. Finally they were finished and moved away to talk with Dr. Evans and several other doctors attached to the hospital who were taking an interest in this new wonder drug.
"How are you feeling now Edwin, after your long sleep?" Garrett asked as he helped his friend consume the mountain of sandwiches which had arrived. "Much better and my chest is the clearest it's been since I came in here. Does this mean I'm being cured?"
Garrett looked at him noticing a much happier young guy lying there. "I don't know buddy but the doctors from the drug company are looking pretty pleased with themselves right now, so here's hoping."
Keith Jamieson was watching both of them closely and with his ability to lip read he could tell what was being said between them as well. He went to chat with his boyfriend asking him, "Looking at Edwin there is a marked improvement, does mean that he is on the road to recovery?"
"I don't think we should count our chickens just yet. The first reaction to the drug is encouraging but according to our visitors this is normal for the first three days. It is after that when problems and a backward step have happened in some of the other cases that they have tried the drug on.
Edwin is the youngest one they have used the drug on and they are more confident that with youth on his side and the will to fight this thing, the results will be more encouraging."
"So we just play the waiting game is that it?"
"Yes, they did suggest that you encourage him to keep fighting and be positive, but I don't think you will need to do that, Garrett will do your work for you." They both smiled and nodded looking at the two young guys talking and laughing.
Davey after his session with the good doctor was also in a happier frame of mind. Coupled with the medication Dr. Whitmore had prescribed he certainly was not has tired as he had been. He was a little upset that he couldn't continue training but that wasn't much fun without someone qualified to help and motivate him.
Johnny wanted to know everything that had happened with Keith Jamieson and Davey told him most of what happened but not all. They were downstairs in the TV room when Davey excused himself saying he to go to the bathroom. Instead of going to the one just outside the room he headed for the elevator. "Were you going buddy?" Johnny asked.
"I have to go upstairs to get my medication."
With a cheeky grin Johnny asked," Do you want a hand with that cream?"
Laughing Davey replied, "No thanks, you'd take too long and finish up with a messy hand if you get my drift." Putting on a hurt look Johnny followed him up to their room anyway.
Back at Providence while the two boys were having supper Keith decided to join them. While all three of them were munching away Keith decided to bring up the subject of his mother's trial which was beginning tomorrow, "I have some bad news for you Garrett because you might soon have to be away from here during the day, possibly for a couple of days." He noticed the puzzled look on Garrett's face and decided to get right down to the nitty gritty, "You're mother's trial begins tomorrow and later this week you will be required to give evidence.
Now I don't want you to panic or worry unduly about this. The DA will take you through the questioning and your evidence before you are called, maybe tomorrow night and he will guide you every step of the way. So try and remain calm, Edwin this is where you can return Garrett's favour by keeping on reassuring him that everything will be all right."
Edwin said he would do just that as they all tucked in to a helping of ice cream. Still this didn't help him much as a feeling of panic overtook him. Both Edwin and Keith tried very hard to lighten the mood but all to no avail as a feeling of helplessness began to set in. Deep down he still loved his mother but only because she was his mother. For no other reason, any other love he had went out the window when he realized what they were doing together wasn't normal.
Sally and Bethany's first night didn't go down too well, because they had just got into bed and were getting hot and sexy when the phone rang. Sally was on call this night and Bethany's first night would be tomorrow. The call was from one of the staff on duty informing her that one of the younger boys was having nightmares again and could she go see him because he was crying out for her.
"Sorry darling can you keep your motor running till I get back?" Sally asked with a laugh.
"Of course I'll stay hot and ready and I promise not to start without you." They both laughed as Sally quickly dressed and hurried off. This particular young boy was one of the youngest they rescued from that horrible camp in which Joey was incarcerated. He was in a bad way and had a lot of problems coping after all the torture he endured, not only in the camp but at home before he was put in there.
He had been whipped and beaten by his parents and had scars which would remain for life but it was the internal scars in his brain which worried Sally the most. She had already spent many hours by his side and he had lost a lot of days off school as well. As she hurried to his room Sally thought that she might be able to persuade Joey to provide a tutor for some of these boys who kept missing school?
She went quietly into his room which had a night light on all the time to find him once again curled up in the corner of his room in a fetal position. Brad, Brad it's me Sally. Don't worry you're safe and well, and no one can harm you. Come on let's get you into bed."
On hearing her voice he held out his arms and she lifted him up placing him gently back in bed. Laying down beside him with her arms gently holding him, she rocked him back and forth which she knew was the only way to get him back to sleep.
All the time she was whispering sweet and gentle words in his ear and soon his eyes began to close and his breathing became gentler. When she thought he had gone back to sleep and was resting peacefully she slowly removed her arms from around him, but as soon as she tried to move off the bed he woke and began whimpering once more.
She stayed with him comforting him but each time she tried to move he cried out or screamed and she ended up spending the whole night sleeping with him, cradling him in her arms like you would a baby. She thought to herself this isn't doing much for my sex life and wondered if Bethany was wondering where she was.
It was daylight when she woke again and Brad was just beginning to stir, "Good morning Brad and how are you this morning?" she asked him. "Good morning Sally, did you have to spend the whole night with me again?" His bottom lip began to tremble as he continued, "I'm so sorry Sally I do try not to have those nightmares but I can't help it."
"Don't cry Brad, I'll always be here for you and if not me then our new lady Bethany who you will love."
"Is she as good and kind as you are?"
"Of course she is otherwise we wouldn't have her working here would we?" He nodded as he got out of bed heading for the bathroom and when he came back out he got dressed and they both went down to breakfast together.
Already seated at the table was Bethany not looking too happy, so Sally took the opportunity to introduce him to Brad explaining to the young lad that Bethany would come to him tomorrow night if he had any problems during the night. Brad gave Bethany a kiss and hug sitting between the two of them at the breakfast table. Bethany looked across at Sally who smiled at her raising her eyebrows indicating that this was what the job was about.
Brad went off to school with the other guys today and Sally and Bethany took the opportunity to sneak off to their room for about thirty minutes of kissing and cuddling. Sally explained to her lover all about Brad and about some of the other boys. The problems they still have, pointing out that it was sickening to see some of them still suffering after what was quite some time.
Finally they had no other choice but to head off to their offices and work.
In Judge Garcia's court room the jury selection was underway in Margaret Buchanan's trial and it was proving difficult because of all the advance publicity to find twelve jurors who would sit fairly and honestly in judgment.
They soon got through the six hundred or so who had been called in and the clerk of the court was instructed by Judge Garcia to call another six hundred in tomorrow. Out of the first six hundred only four had been found suitable by the prosecution and defence. Margaret herself was bored to tears sitting there while the whole process was gone through. She was quite happy to be led back to the holding cell and finally into the van to take her back to her cell.
She had looked around all day to see if she could see her son Garrett but as the day wore on she realized that he wasn't there. In fact Garrett was sitting with Edwin playing chess or at least being taught to play the game.
The two doctors from the drug company had left but would be back in a couple of days. The amount of drug being pumped into his body had now been reduced to what was referred to has a normal dose.
Suddenly, about halfway through the afternoon, Edwin went deathly pale and began to be violently ill, getting sick all over himself and the bed. Garrett immediately yelled for help and several nurses came running in followed by a Dr. Evans and a couple of other doctors.
Once he had stopped vomiting he began to go into convulsions, shaking and jumping around, almost falling off the bed and several nurses had trouble hanging on to him. Dr. Evans was on the phone talking to the drug company. The doctors announced they were coming straight back and should be there in about three hours. They had no idea what had caused this because none of the other trial patients had those kinds of symptoms.
Gradually Edwin stopped jerking around and his eyes which had gone right up into his head slowly came back to normal. Another bed was brought in so they could move him onto it after they had washed and changed him and the other was taken away to be scrubbed and sterilized as a precaution.
All this time Garrett had been watching and worrying praying to God that Edwin would pull through. Once he was settled into his clean bed, Dr. Evans gave him a sedative needle explaining to Garrett that he would more than likely sleep for a couple of hours so to give his frail body the chance to recover.
It was a very worried Garrett who sat besides his friend's bedside occasionally dropping off to sleep himself but all the time holding his friends tiny hand. Never before had he felt so useless and helpless. Wishing that he could do something more to help Edwin, to make him more comfortable, because after that episode this afternoon he was sure his new found friend was going to die.
He began to quietly cry until he felt a hand gently on his shoulder. Looking up he saw Keith Jamieson also with tears in his eyes hanging on to his shoulder saying, don't worry Garrett. I have a feeling that he's going to make it but if he doesn't, remember that he will be going to another place which I am sure is good and he will be watching over us. I'm not a religious man and I don't think you are either Garrett but I have noticed you saying a few little prayers over the past few days and I have a feeling they will work."
Garrett was surprised because he didn't think anyone had noticed him praying and told Keith that. Smiling Keith said, "I don't miss much young man and I feel that you are a much kinder nicer man than you have been made out to be. You are easily led and your mother and her friend led you to believe that what they wanted you to do was right and you at the time didn't know any better and that is what I am going to put into my report. Plus, I am going to recommend to Judge Garcia that you be released sooner rather than later. I hope you won't let me down."
"I promise you I won't. Every day I am seeing things all around me that I know now are wrong and I realise what a terrible mother I had or should I say have."
They both sat there for some time holding on to each other watching over Edwin. It was about midnight when the two doctors came rushing in to check on Davey who was still asleep. They ordered a multitude of tests to be run which would keep the staff busy all night. Keith excused himself declaring that he was very tired and was going home to bed while his partner Dr. Evans who looked dead on his feet said he hoped to get away in a couple of hours.
Peace and quiet returned to the ward but not before several patents who had protested at Edwin getting the new drug, went around saying that they were glad it wasn't them being so ill and sick and it served him right for being chosen. What fucking drama queens Garrett thought to himself.
Keith Jamieson did manage to get back to the hotel in time for a quick chat with Davey. He apologized explaining to him that a lot was happening at the hospital right now requiring his attention. He asked Davey to continue with his story where he left off yesterday and Davey continued. The part he was up to was the more distressing, being the time when he was attacked on his first day at El Paso high school by Garrett and his gang.
Several times he broke down and Keith called a halt giving Davey plenty of time to recover. Finally the doctor had heard everything and the only point that did bother him a little bit was the next door neighbour who seduced him. While Davey was relating that part of the tale he caught a little note in his voice showing that he was still in love with this guy to some extent.
Without prompting, Davey said something which surprised even this hardened doctor who thought he knew everything, "If Garrett wants to talk to me face to face, then I will, just as long as Johnny and you are there as well."
"Thank you Davey that is a wonderful gesture and you will be surprised at the change in Garrett as well. I will speak to him and see what he thinks. If he wants to talk to you, which he earlier said he did, then I'll see what I can do. I will then have to gain the permission of not only your new parents but the courts as well because even though he is out in the community, he is locked up every night and his life is controlled just as it would be if he was in prison."
He left it at that for now not telling Davey about the hospital or anything else about Garrett. He told Davey that he will be chatting with him again soon, but he didn't think there was a great deal wrong with him that time will soon cure.
"You are a remarkable young man who has gone through so much in your short life. Yet you have survived in part thanks to your own will power and inner strength to carry on and because you are now surrounded by so many friends and relatives who are there to help."
Davey personally thought Keith was going a bit over the top but rather liked the words of praise he was heaping onto him anyway.
Back in Judge Garcia's courtroom jury selection was finally completed on the second day with a record number of fourteen hundred potential jurors being questioned before twelve and two alternates were found suitable to both sides of the table. Still the trial did not get under way because the next day was spent discussing points of law which were being raised by both the prosecution and the defence.
It was towards the end of the third day when the defence attorney announced that he would like to add another name to his witness list. Although the prosecution complained that it was a bit late to be adding people the judge allowed it. "I will be calling ...
To be continued.
Writer's corner.
Another mixed up chapter with a fair bit happening and a lot of the kids by the sound of it still have some problems.
Davey's health wasn't too good because he was trying to do too much too soon which of course is typical of his age group. Dr. Whitmore of course was able to bring him into line and now Keith Jamieson will no doubt continue to keep an eye on him.
What with the Karate school and starting to train again was proving to be too much for young Davey. One thing that did surprise me was the willingness by him to front Garrett Buchanan.
Except it looks like in a few months' time, Keith will be returning to Britain.
Poor Edwin, the question is will he survive or will the new drug be worse than the disease? If he does die and this certainly looks like it could happen, I don't think poor Garrett will be able to cope with it. Doctor Keith Jamieson what a remarkable man. When my boyfriend of more than twenty years died I wish he had been around to help me.
While the story did centre mainly around Davey and Garrett, We did hear the good news about Pru and Luke wanting to tie the knot and of course Bethany very quickly realizing that living in the hotel working with troubled boys would be no bed of roses. We had an insight into what Sally had to put up with and how some of those poor boys were still suffering.
Finally the trial is slowly getting underway and who is the mystery person being called by the prosecution.
A lot of open plots and many more to come so please keep coming back and more importantly let us know how we are doing, we love to get e mails.
Another exciting piece of news is that a young reader of my stories and in fact a writer on nifty himself has offered to design and help set up my own web site.
This site won't just be for me but for several other selected writers and the site will be called, "Gay Writers United", `The best writers in the world of gay stories assembled under one banner.
If you are familiar with the Jacob Miller Tex site I was part of, then this promises to be like that but more so. We as writers are very excited at the prospect and will more news about this very soon.
Hugs
Trevor
Supertev699@hotmail.com
Jack's Jottings:-
My oh my. What a chapter. Trevor has provided a great synopsis of the chapter in his "Writer's Corner." So there is not much for me to say regarding the story lines. However, what I do want to point out is how amazed I am by, and how much I want to praise Trevor for the way he portrays these awesome characters. The scenes between Davey and Johnny, Garrett and Edwin, Luke and Pru, and Sally and Bethany, are written with such tenderness, and mutual respect and love for each other. As readers, we can so easily empathize with them; almost look into the depths of their inner souls. Each character is presented and as the story moves on, each person grows, and develops into a better person. Moreover, this personal growth has a positive effect on the development of other characters in the story.
My fellow readers please write to us and share with us your thoughts about all of Trevor's stories. Until next time, stay well everyone.
Hugs
Jack
jackunders@yahoo.com