All EMERGENCY! Characters belong to MARK VII LIMITED but any and all OC’s (Original Characters) belong to me and can not be used without my permission. Thanks to Debbie for the title.

 

**Denotes thought**

 

Copyright…February 2005

 

 

Bank On It

An alternate ending to the "Understanding" episode

 

By Sherry

 

Author’s notes: This story picks up about five hours after the hostage situation started. Some dialogue is from the original eppy…but no copyright infringement intended, just borrowing the lines 

 

No first names were ever used for the robbers, so to make it a little less confusing, I made them up…Les Montgomery is the blond haired robber and Bud Jennings is the dark haired robber 

 

Also, now that I’ve seen the uncut version, again, I know there was no pregnant lady in the bank…for some reason, I thought there was, but for this story, there is.  This is written so that Roy has already checked on the other hostages. 

  

 

 

It had now been five hours since Les Montgomery and Bud Jennings walked in to the State National Bank and tried to rob it, taking everyone inside hostage, and causing the manager to almost have a heart attackJohnny and Roy had been called and let in the bank for that, but with the robbers refusing to let either one of them leave to go with the patient, another squad had to be called in…when they arrived, they were allowed inside to transport the manager to Rampart Emergency.  The robbers still wouldn’t let anyone go…including Gage and DeSoto and they had been inside for the last four hours.

 

With the bank employees and the few customers that had been caught inside still bound and gagged and off in the room by themselves, the robbers nervously paced back and forth out front, while keeping a close eye on Johnny and Roy, as the two paramedics sat on the floor, leaning up against the wall, with their hands bound tightly behind their backs.  With his first attempt at escape being painfully stopped, Johnny sat beside his best friend, breathing hard, being in pain and not getting very far at trying to loosen the ropes that tied his hands.

 

Roy watched, as Johnny rested his head against the wall, his best friend’s eyes were closed and he saw the blood that ran down the side of his partner’s face, and the blood stain on the front of his uniform shirt that was growing larger.  Even though DeSoto knew that his best friend was in pain and starting to slide into shock, he knew his friend well enough to know that, even with what had already happened to him, Johnny was trying to come up with another plan to get them all out of the bank.

 

Seeing that Les and Bud had finally walked far enough away from them, Roy turned and softly spoke to his friend.

 

"Johnny…Johnny, are you sure you’re alright? And if you’re thinkin’ what I think you’re thinkin’ partner …please *stop* thinkin’ about it."

 

With it taking Johnny a moment to answer, Roy became more worried and as he was about to call his friend’s name for a third time, Johnny slowly turned his head and opened his eyes, as he looked at his partner.

 

Johnny saw the worried look on Roy’s face, and slightly smiling, he softly replied, "Don’t look so…so worried partner…you worry too much…I don’t think I’m…able ta’ try… anything else but…yeah, you know exactly…what I’m thinkin’…guess I’m okay…head hurts a lot and…my stomach don’t feel…too good right now…my hands and arms…they hurt ‘nd…they’re asleep…other than that I’m…I’m just peachy…is there anything else…ya wanna…wanna know…?

 

“Nope…that just about covers it Junior.  But just peachy huh…yeah right…sure you are.” Roy answered.

 

There were a few moments of silence, as Roy listened to the difficulty that Johnny was having as he tried to breathe.  Johnny finally spoke again. 

 

“I was…dumb Pally, I…I never shoulda…tried that…they coulda killed…all of us on…on the spot…wonder how tha’ other…hostages are doin’…?"

 

Roy first looked over to where the others were being held, he saw the door was still closed, then he looked back at his partner and spoke to him.

 

"Well, I think they’re doin’ alright…least, they were when I checked on ‘em.  And with you Johnny, I can’t help but worry…but no, you weren’t dumb, you were just tryin’ to get us all outta here…safe…although I’m not sure exactly how you thought you were gonna do it.  But, I think they would all appreciate what you tried ta’ do…and don’t get mad, but, I do have ta’ agree with ya partner.”

 

Looking at his friend, a bit confused, Johnny asked, “You agree…with me on…on what…?”

 

“That you shouldn’t have tried it…it was way too dangerous and you’re lucky these guys didn’t kill ya."

 

Johnny tried to shift around to get into a more comfortable position, but didn’t succeed.

 

Trying to take in a deep breath, Johnny whispered and said, "Nothin’ ta’ get…mad about…’cause you’re right…I don’t really…know ’xactly how I was…gonna do it either…but yeah…I am partner…*real* lucky…when I started…ta’ tackle that guy…and you and…the other guy…came back in…and he yelled ta’ warn…warn him…I though I was…gonna get it…in the back…got it in tha’…abdomen instead…thanks for… savin’ my life Pally…but if I ever…try somethin’ like…like that again…kick me ’cause man…I’m really hurt…hurtin’ …and I’m a little…bit dizzy…” 

  

Roy became more worried when he saw Johnny suddenly closed his eyes, tightly, and lean his head forward, as he started to violently cough.  Roy knew it was causing his best friend more pain and even more difficulty breathing.  Roy noticed the robbers starring at them, as they continued to walk back and forth in front of them.

 

**Okay, I’ll kick ya tha’ next time…but there better not be a next time**

 

“Easy Johnny…just take it easy, try to relax…and I haven’t saved your life yet…I gotta get’cha outta here first.  I know you’re hurtin’, but just take it easy partner, take slow, shallow breaths…you got some blood runnin’ down the side of your face, and that stain on the front of your shirt’s gettin’ bigger.”

 

Roy could see that from Johnny’s coughing, he started bleeding more. 

 

Nervously, Roy spoke, and said, “This isn’t good, you’re bleedin’ more, so stay as still as you can, we don’t know where that bullet might be lodged…I just wish I could get my hands free, keep tryin’ but I can’t…you really need some pressure on that wound.  I know you said that you were dizzy but, do ya feel sick or anything…is your vision blurred…are you…well, are you breathin’ okay?"

 

**That’s a dumb question ta’ ask…I *know* you’re havin’ trouble breathin’ Junior…but you’ll never admit it**

 

**Here we go again…please stop worryin’ Pally…this wasn’t your fault, it was mine…I think I’ll be alright…least, I *hope* I will be**

 

After the coughing spasm finally eased, Johnny was breathing even harder, gasping for breath and the pain was worse.

 

“Hurts…can’t…breathe…Roy…help…”

 

Worried, Roy softly said, “Try to relax Johnny…just relax and breathe slow an’ easy.”

 

Johnny was finally able to get his breathing somewhat under control.

 

Slightly nodding his head yes, Johnny said, "”Kay…I’m okay…now…you aren’t havin’ …any luck either huh…I can’t feel…my hands…rope’s just too…too tight…you’re right it…it’s worse …think I’m in…in trouble…my vision’s blurred a…a little but…it comes and goes…just wish this…headache would go…away and…never come back…I’m…I’m not nauseous…enough that I really…need ta’ throw up…yet…and I’m not havin’…too much trouble…breathin’ yet but…I’m kinda…tired though…sleep…I jus’ wanna…wanna sleep …oh man Roy…it really…really hurts…"

 

**I knew you wouldn’t be straight with me partner…you *are* havin’ trouble breathin’ and you’ve probably got a pretty nasty concussion…I’m surprised you aren’t barfin’ your guts out yet…I’m sorry about this Johnny**

 

Roy saw that Johnny’s eyes were closing, and knew his friend was about to go to sleep on him.  

 

Hoping to keep his partner awake, Roy said, "I know, just take it easy, you'll be alright, but you’ve gotta stay awake…Johnny, stay with me…we’re gonna get outta here."

 

"Yeah…I hope so…tryin’ but…I really don’t…feel good Pally…don’t…feel good…"

 

“I know you don’t Junior.  Just relax.”

 

Seeing that Johnny was bleeding even more, Roy looked up and saw one of the robbers was walking by…he hoped that this man would allow him to help his partner.

 

"Hey…hey my partner needs help, the bleedin’, it’s gotten worse and he’s havin’ a harder time breathin’.  Please, untie me and let me put some pressure on his wound and give him some oxygen."

 

Les stopped and looked over at the injured paramedic, watching as Johnny was struggling to breathe.

 

After a moment, he answered, and said, "You two wouldn’t be tied up now and he would be in that shape if he hadn’t pulled that stupid stunt…he looks okay to me, so forget it."

 

He started to walk away, but Roy called out to him again, as he became angry.

 

"Wait a minute…*you* think he looks okay…I don’t think you’re qualified to make that kind of a decision, since you’re not a Doctor…and I’m tellin’ you, he’s *not* okay.”

 

As he turned back around and looked at Roy, the paramedic continued talking to him.

 

“Come on, I’m not gonna try anything, I swear, all I wanna do is help my friend…and he certainly isn’t in any shape to do anything… you took care of that when you shot ‘im.  Just let me see what I can do for him…please, he’s gonna bleed to death if I don’t help him, then you *will* be facin’ a murder charge!"

 

Johnny looked and saw the man walking back towards them, gripping the gun he held in his hand tighter and he had an angry look on his face…being afraid of what might happen, Gage quickly and breathlessly spoke to his partner.

 

"Roy…please…calm down…I’m doin’…alright…really…don’t get this…guy riled…riled up…it’s not worth…worth the risk…I’m alright…"

 

Softly talking to his friend, Roy replied, "No Johnny…you’re *not* alright…you’re losin’ too much blood and you’re goin’ into shock…plus the fact that you’re in respiratory distress.  You need medical help…now.” 

 

“I know…but…I’ll be…”

 

Still being angry, Les interrupted Johnny, and replied, "Listen to you’re friend here…he has a little bit of smarts, although it’s too bad that he didn’t think ta’ use ‘em today.  And I outta blow your head off for talkin’ to me like that."

 

**I have smarts huh…no I don’t…or I wouldn’t have tried what I did**

 

Seeing the gun pointed at Roy, Johnny breathed harder, and as he tried to control his coughing, he softly spoke to the robber, as he pleaded for his best friend’s life.

 

"No please…don’t hurt ‘im…Roy…he just gets…kinda…kinda bugged…when I’m…I’m hurt…he didn’t…mean…anything…by it…really it’s…it’s cool…no…harm done…’kay… please don’t… don’t…hurt ’im…"

 

Finally pointing the gun away from Roy, Les replied, "You need ta’ thank your friend, he just saved your life…now just shut up, both of ya."

 

Les then turned and walked away from the two paramedics.  Before Roy could say anything, Johnny turned to him, and no longer coughing, just breathing hard, he slowly let his eyes close, as softly spoke to Roy.

 

"Now …now I’m savin’…your butt…an’ he’s right…we wouldn’t…be sittin’ here…tied up if it…if it weren’t…for me…sorryit hurts…Pally…hurts bad…please I gotta…gotta… rest…"

 

“Well, thanks partner, and ya know, he is right…you *did* save my life just now.”

 

“Anytime…jus’ tryin’ ta’…return tha’…tha’ favor…so…tired…”

 

Afraid for his friend if he went to sleep, Roy nudged Johnny, and said, "Johnny, I told’cha, you have to stay awake…open your eyes for me Junior…come on partner, I know it’s hard, but don’t go out on me here."

 

Keeping his eyes closed, Johnny whispered, and said, "Can’t stay…awake…head hurts…too …too much…sleep…just need…ta’ sleep…just a few…few minutes …promise…just for a …few…minutes…startin’…ta’ feel sick…Pally…"

 

Roy knew he had lost the battle to keep his friend awake, as he saw his partner’s breathing become shallow but more labored.

 

Roy whispered to his partner, and said, "You shouldn’t do it but, okay, just stay still and rest partner…and *only* for a few minutes."

 

“Thanks…Roy…”

 

As Roy sat there, not knowing what would happen to him, Johnny or the other hostages, his mind went back a few hours ago and the events that lead up to his best friend getting injured. 

 

~J~J~J~J~J~J~

 

"Rampart, neither one of us can go with the patient."

 

"51, the patient can’t be moved without a paramedic. What’s your problem?"

 

"Ah, Rampart…we’re being held hostage…suggest that you ah, send another squad, and… help us with transportation."

 

"10-4 51, I’ll call the Fire Department."

 

“Ah, 10-4 Rampart…the address is 2057 North Hillcrest.”

 

“We’ll keep the line open.”

 

"They’re gonna send over a couple paramedics to help transport the patient…I better let the ambulance attendants know what’s goin’ on."

 

"Okay…but don’t try anything."

 

"Yeah."

 

When he walked away from Les and Johnny, Roy thought everything was going to be fine, he knew that he would never intentionally do anything that might get his best friend injured or killed…he just never thought his partner would try anything.  But he remembered how, after he went to fill the ambulance attendants in on what was going on inside and he and Bud were returning, they saw Johnny jump up, and without warning, Gage had charged toward Les, and how Bud tried to warn him.

 

"Les, look out!"

 

Roy saw, as Les looked up just in time to see Johnny coming towards him…DeSoto also saw Bud raise his gun to shot the dark haired paramedic in the back.

 

"NOOOO!"

 

Roy yelled, as he pushed the gun away, but he suddenly heard a shot, startling him.  Looking in the direction of the noise, and as if in slow motion, DeSoto saw his partner’s body tense up, as he watched Johnny fall limply to the ground, hitting his head on the edge of the desk.

 

"Johnny…no!"

 

Roy remembered rushing to Johnny’s side and feeling for a carotid pulse…and being thankful to have found one, although it was weak, it was there…and, as he stood and started to reach for the drug box, how he was stopped by Les, as the man spoke to him.

 

"Hold it.  And just what do you think you’re doin’?"

 

"Look, I have to help my partner, he’s bleeding badly.  He’s unconscious and he has a head injury…and those two things are not a good combination.  The manager, his condition is stable, but when the ambulance gets here for him, please, let them take Johnny in with ‘em…he needs help, right now."

 

"Forget it…he shoulda thought about gettin’ hurt before he tried it…so he stays till this is over.  Now, leave that stuff alone and get back here…Bud, you and this one get him over here, then you tie ‘em both up."

 

"Wait please…Johnny needs help...he’ll bleed to death if he doesn’t get it."

 

"That’s really not my problem, it’s his, so shut up…now get ‘im over here against the wall!"

 

Roy could still see Les, pointing his gun in his face…how he and Bud carried his unconscious partner and placed his limp body over against the wall, outside of the room where the others were being held…how he had to struggle with placing his friend on the floor gently, due to the fact that Bud had just roughly let go of Johnny…and although he had asked them not to, knowing it would probably affect his partner’s breathing, how the two men ignored him and Les roughly jerked Johnny’s arms behind his back and tightly bound his wrists …and how his own hands were then bound behind his back, as he was roughly seated on the floor beside his unconscious friend.

 

"Hang on Johnny, you’re gonna be alright."

 

Roy remembered the short conversation that took place between the police and Les, moments after the gunshot, that injured Johnny, had been fired. 

 

“You in the bank, this is the police…we just heard a shot…has someone been hurt?”

 

“Yeah, we know who you are…and yeah, one of these…paramedics…he tried ta’ jump me, and I had to shoot ‘im…you better stay away or I’ll finish him and everyone in here off!”

 

“Listen to me, don’t make this situation any worse than it already is… let the injured paramedic go so we can get him to the hospital and get him some help!”

 

“Forget it…he stays here till this is over…you have his life in your hands…let us outta here, or I finish him off!”

 

“We’ll think about it!”

 

“Think fast…he’s in bad shape!”

 

Later on, Johnny’s cries for help, as he was regaining consciousness, still rang in Roy’s memory, along with his partner’s moans of pain, which he knew he could do nothing to stop.

 

"Ah…no don’t…Roy…Roy where…where are you…what happened, it…it hurts…bad…my head hurts…my gut…make it stop…please it…it hurts…help me…Roy…help…please…"

 

"I’m right here partner. Take it easy Johnny, we’re still in the bank…you’ve been shot, so just stay still and try to relax. We may be here for a while."

 

"I…I may not…have…a while…Pally, I need…need ta’…sit up…can’t…catch my…my breath…my arms…why…why can’t…I…move…my arms…"

 

"They have us tied up Junior, relax, let me see if I can get one of ‘em over here to help.  Hey …come here and help Johnny sit up…please, he can’t catch his breath."

 

Roy was relieved as he saw Bud finally come over to help Johnny...but it made him angry, as he saw how roughly the man jerked his best friend up into a seated position, not knowing or caring where the bullet might be or what kind of damage it might be causing, and his friends moans and cries of pain from being jerked around so hard.  But he was glad that Johnny was at least breathing a little bit easier.

 

“Ah…no please…it…it hurts…don’t…hurt me…please…hurts…ta’ breathe…”

 

“Hey, take it easy with him…that bullet could punctured a lung.”

 

~J~J~J~J~J~J~

 

A muffled cry, and what sounded like someone kicking the door or the wall, brought Roy out of his thoughts…he immediately remembered the pregnant hostage that was among those that he had been allowed to check on earlier.

 

Looking in that direction, he saw Bud walk up to the door, as he opened it. 

 

Shouting at the people inside, he said, "Shut up in there!"

 

As Bud started to close the door, the commotion inside got louder. Roy knew, if it was the pregnant woman, that he had to do something to help her.  With everything that had already happened, Roy knew that he had to be careful…things weren’t going as the robbers had originally planned, and he knew that anything could happen.

 

"Hey wait…is the pregnant women having problems?"

 

Unconcerned and irritated, Bud replied, "How should I know…as you told me about your friend, I’m not a doctor.  What if she is?"

 

**What if she is…please tell me that this guy didn’t just say that and that he isn’t *that* dumb…can’t he see she’s gonna have a baby**

 

"She’s pregnant…she could be in labor…and if she is, the baby’s on it’s way.”

 

Just getting a blank stare from Bud, Roy said, “If the baby is coming, you need to let me and my…let me check on her, I’ll need to help her if she is."

 

Roy looked at Johnny, who still had his eyes close, but had now started to shiver…DeSoto didn’t want to leave his best friend alone, but he knew the women needed help.

 

"Johnny…can you hear me?"

 

Finally opening his eyes and answering, Johnny coughed more, and said, "Yeah…I hear ya …cold Roy, I’m…I’m gettin’ so…so cold…hurts ta’ breathe…my head’s about…about ta’ kill…kill me…what…what’s goin’ on…in there…"

 

"One of the hostages is pregnant, she’s probably gone into labor…I guess they’re gonna let me go in and check on her.  Are you gonna be alright while I’m in there?"

 

Slowly nodding his head, Johnny again closed his eyes, and replied, "Yeah Pally…I’ll…be fine…go an’ help ‘er…and I’ll just…just rest…even though it’s…my turn…I’ll let’cha…do this one…I’m a little…tied up at…at the moment…but if ya…need help…yell…"

 

Roy knew his friend was already going into shock, so it took him a minute to realize what Johnny was talking about when he said that it was his turn…then it hit him. Not long after they had started working together, they had responded to an OB call…Roy had a cold and Johnny kept arguing with his friend that he didn’t need to be around the mother or the baby …plus, that it was his turn to delivery one, that he had to start sometime…Roy gave in and Johnny delivered a baby boy. 

 

Roy knew his partner was in no shape to be of any help to him on this delivery.

 

Smiling at his partner, Roy said, "Well, I’m a little tied up at the moment to…just like you, but thanks Junior, I’ll see if I can handle it without ya…but I’ll definitely yell if I need’cha …I owe ya one.  Just do me a favor…you can rest, but please, just don’t go back to sleep."

 

"Yeah I’ll…I’ll try not…ta’ go…back…ta’ sleep…maybe…hopefully…no prom… promises though…"

 

Looking over at Bud, Roy asked, “Hey, are you gonna let me check on her?"

 

Bud finally stepped beside Roy and roughly jerked him up off the floor and stood him up to untie his hands.

 

Johnny saw what Bud had done, and he and Roy heard Johnny softly whispering to them.

 

"Hey…careful with my…best friend…don’t be so…so rough…yeah…you owe me…Pally but more…more than one…I’m feelin’…sick Roy…"

 

“Yeah, I guess I do.  Okay, hang on Junior…I’ll be back as soon as I can.  Just take deep, slow breaths…if you need me, just yell.“

 

“Can’t…breathe real…deep…hurts too…too much…”

 

As Roy rubbed his wrists to try to get some feeling back in them, he saw his friend slowly nod his head.  Looking up, he saw Les walk up and join them, and knowing the shape his friend was in, he spoke to them.

 

"Look, would one of you please untie Johnny…he’s really hurtin’ and he isn’t in any shape to try anything…and it would also ease his breathin’ some if you did…please."

 

Pointing his gun at the injured paramedic, Bud said, "Well, if he’s in such bad shape, why don’t I just finish what Les didn’t, and put him outta his misery.  He hasn’t caused anything but trouble for us anyway…plus he has a smart mouth."

 

Seeing Bud pointing the gun at his partner, and pulling the hammer back, Roy yelled, "No don’t…please, he hasn’t caused any trouble, he’s just in pain from bein’ shot…you would be if you had been shot…just don’t hurt ‘im anymore!"

 

Placing his hand on Bud’s arm, Les said, "Bud, calm down…we don’t need anymore trouble."

 

Looking back at Les, Bud sarcastically replied and said, "Well, I’ll think about it.  Now, if you’re gonna help that chick, get goin’ and do it, or sit back down and rejoin your partner."

 

Knowing the lady needed help, and hoping to keep anyone else from getting hurt, Roy held his hands in front of him, as he tried to stay calm. 

 

"Okay, relax…I was just askin’, nobody else has to get hurt…especially Johnny.  I’ve got to get the drug box and the biophone, before I help that lady…I’ll be back Johnny."

 

Roy saw as Johnny again slowly shook his head, letting him know that he had heard him, then he reluctantly walked away from his best friend, but was a little nervous as Bud stayed, just standing over his partner.  With Les behind him, pointing the gun in his back, Roy stepped over to the desk, and gathered up the biophone and drug box, then he went to help the pregnant lady. 

 

Realizing he needed the OB kit, Roy took the chance to ask for it…he got the answer he expected.

 

“Look, there’s a kit, out in the squad, it’s the OB kit and we have to have to delivery a baby…and I need it.”

 

“Forget it, you aren’t goin’ out there to get anything.” Les replied.

 

Being persistent, Roy replied, “I *have* to have it, but I won’t have ta’ go out to get it.  Let one of the police officers get it and set it in front of the door…please.”

 

Seeing the distress the lady was in, and becoming more nervous, Les asked, “You really need it?”

 

Roy shook his head and said, “Yes, I do.  Just let the officer put it at the door and I’ll just reach out and get it.”

 

Reluctantly agreeing, Les finally answered, and said, “Okay…but if you try anything…”

 

Roy saw Les point his gun at Johnny, so DeSoto didn’t need for this man to finish his sentence…he saw what he had already done to his partner, and he didn’t want his best friend injured any worse than he already was…or worse, have his friend killed.

 

“I promise…I won’t do anything.”

 

Motioning toward Johnny with his gun, Les said, “Bud, cover that one.”

 

Acknowledging his friend, Bud pointed his gun at Johnny, as Les led Roy to the door.  Opening it just enough to shout outside, he had Roy tell the police what he needed.

 

”I’m one of the paramedics…I need the OB kit from the squad…it’s on the passengers side compartment…it has OB on the front of it!”

 

“Bring it to the door and then step away…and don’t try anything…or else!” Les shouted, pointing his gun at Roy.

 

He then jerked the door shut, holding the curtain back, watching every move the officers made. 

 

Not wanting anyone else hurt, the police did as they were told.  Officer Marcus Pennington retrieved the kit and set it in front of the closed door, then slowly stepped away.   Seeing that he was gone, Les reopened the door and allowed Roy to grab the kit, then he shut the door.    

 

Walking back, Roy quickly looked over at his partner, and knew that Johnny was getting worse.  Making his way into the room, Roy squatted down in front of the woman, as he spoke.

 

"Have you gone into labor?"

 

Seeing her shake her head yes, Roy looked up at Les and said, "She is in labor…you’re gonna have to untie her and remove the tape from her mouth…I need to take her out there… where there’s more room. I’m also gonna need another squad and ambulance…I also need one for Johnny."

 

Les jerked the paramedic to his feet and pushed him up against the wall. Pointing the gun in his face, he angrily spoke.

 

"You’ve been told you can’t help ‘im…so stop askin’!"

 

Hoping to calm the man down, Roy held up his hand, and said, "Alright…alright, calm down and forget I asked…just let me take care of this lady."

 

With the robber agreeing and getting the lady untied and the gag removed, Roy helped her out to where there was more room to work.

 

As Roy slowly and carefully eased her to the floor, he asked, "What‘s your name?"

 

"Robin…Robin Weatherly…it hurts…bad…”

 

As she was answering Roy, she happened to look in Johnny’s direction.

 

“Oh my god…is he your partner…we heard a shot…a little earlier…it was your partner…"

 

"Well, I’m Roy.  Yeah, Johnny’s hurt pretty bad and they won’t let me call an ambulance for him to take him into Rampart…but I know he’ll be okay…I’ll get back to him after I help you.  Just relax, we’re all gonna get outta here…and I know it hurts, just take it easy.  Is this your first child?"

 

Breathing hard, Robin answered, "No…third…my husband Mike…and I…we have twin… twin boys…Michael and Josh…this one’s…supposed to be a…a girl…it hurts…"

 

Hoping to keep her mind off her pain…and Johnny…Roy kept talking to her.

 

"I know it hurts, but just breathe.  I have a boy and a girl myself, and I’ve heard twins can be a handful.  Do you have a name picked out?"

 

Before she was able to answer, Robin and Roy heard Johnny softly calling his partner’s name, as he started to heave and gag…they knew that he was sick.

 

“Roy…Roy I’m…gonna be…sick…help me…sick…”

 

**Hang on partner…hang on, I’m gonna get back to ya**

 

Seeing that Robin was looking over at Johnny, and hoping to get her to concentrate on the baby, Roy softly spoke to her.

 

“Robin…honey…look at me…listen to me…I need you to focus on what we have to do…I’ll take care of Johnny, I promise, but let’s get you taken care of first…okay.  So, did you and your husband pick out a name for the baby?”

 

Finally being able to get her mind back on the delivering the baby, Robin looked back at Roy and shook her head, as she answered him. 

 

"Okay…yeah they are…twins…are a handful…Jill…that’s what we’re…gonna name her…"

 

"Okay then, let’s see what we can do about bringin’ Jill into the world.  Now, give me a big push…push…okay breathe…alright, just a few more and it’ll be all over…push."

 

After delivering a healthy baby girl, without any problems, Roy picked up a towel and wiped his hands, as he got on the biophone and contacted the hospital, telling them what was coming in. 

 

“Rampart, this is Squad 51, how do you read?”

 

“51, we read you loud and clear, go ahead.” Brackett replied.

 

“Rampart, we’re still in the bank, but we’re sending in a 23 year old female, she just gave birth to a baby girl…there were no complications.  Squad 18 will be transporting and their ETA is seven minutes.”

 

“10-4 51, We’ll be waiting.”

 

“10-4 Rampart.  Also Rampart, whenever we are able to leave, I’ll be bringing Joh…”

 

Roy suddenly stopped when he saw Bud pointing his gun in his face.

 

“We said you could help this lady…not your partner…hang up the phone and get her outta here.”

 

 “51, you’re breaking up.”

 

Speaking back into the handset, Roy said, “Ah…Rampart, the lady is on her way in now.  51 out.”

 

Roy quickly turned off the biophone and placed the handset back in place, as he closed the case.  Hearing the radio click off worried Kel.

 

**Somethin’ else has happened…and I hope it isn’t what I’m thinkin’**

 

As Robin was being wheeled out to the ambulance, she grabbed Roy’s arm, as she spoke.

 

"Roy…thank you for your help…and I hope Johnny’ll be alright."

 

"You’re very welcome, I’m just glad I was here…and so do I.  But don’t worry bout ‘im, I’m gonna take real good care of him, you and your husband just take care of yourselves and that adorable little girl."

 

"We will. Thank you again."

 

Roy nodded his head, as he quickly made his way back to his partner.  Sitting the equipment down and looking at his friend, he didn’t like what he saw…Johnny sitting there, softly and breathlessly calling out his name, pleading for help, and Roy saw that he had thrown up. 

 

"Roy…Roy help…Roy please…help I…can’t…breathe…hurts…too much…I can’t… breathe…Roy please…help…help me…sick…I’m sick…"

 

Kneeling down beside his partner, Roy said, "I know…I know, just take it easy Johnny …easy, I’m right here, I’m gonna help ya and you’re gonna be okay."

 

Slowly shaking his head, Johnny whispered, "No…I’m not…not gonna…make it…gonna die…partner…I’m ‘fraid I’m…gonna die…on ya…"

 

Johnny had become very pale and diaphoretic, his breathing was much more labored and shallow, and he was bleeding more than before…Roy also saw that Johnny was agitated, and knew it was because of his difficulty breathing. Taking the chance, while he had it, he turned and opened the equipment, as he took out some large bandages, using them to try to stop the blood flow and a small cloth to wipe his friend’s mouth.

 

"No you’re not Junior…so stop sayin’ that…I am *not* gonna let you die." Roy firmly said.

 

“Yeah…okay…whatever…you say…Pally…” Johnny whispered, unconvinced.

 

Les walked up and saw what Roy was doing, and as he grabbed hold of the paramedic’s arm, he quickly stopped him. 

 

“Hey, you don’t listen real good, do ya?  I’ve already told you that you can’t help him…now stop it.”

 

Roy looked the man square in the eyes, and as he jerked his arm away, he spoke.

 

“I know what you said, what you have both said, and I don’t care.  He’s sick and throwin’ up …he’s bleeding ta’ death and I’m not gonna sit here and watch him die…so if you wanna stop me so bad, then you’re gonna have to kill me …right here, right now, cause that’s the only way I’ll stop treatin’ ‘im.”

 

Johnny saw Les aim the gun at Roy, and he yelled.

 

“No…please…please don’t…Roy…don’t give…this guy any…ideas…or suggestions…”

 

Looking first at Johnny, then the two robbers, Roy said, “I’m treatin’ ya Johnny…and that’s final.”

 

Finally giving in, Les pointed the gun away from Roy, and said, “Fine…I don’t care, treat ‘im, but it’s not gonna do ‘im any good.” 

 

Roy turned back and started treating his friend again.  The pressure that Johnny felt on his stomach caused him to slightly jump, as he quietly spoke to his partner with more difficulty.

 

"Ah…hurts Roy…how’s tha’…woman and…tha’ baby…they…they okay…?"

 

**Here he is, sittin’ here and basically bleedin’ to death and havin’ a hard time breathin’ …and he’s thinkin’ about that lady and her baby…Johnny…you’re an amazing person partner**

 

"Relax Johnny, and breathe easy.  She was worried about you, but they’re both fine, she had a girl…they did let me call for another squad and ambulance to take her to Rampart, so she got outta here.  I’m sorry partner…I…"

 

Seeing his partner’s hesitation, Johnny slightly smiled, as he asked, "Good…glad they got… out…but sorry…for what…oh don’t…don’t tell me…you…messed up with…without me… did’cha…I’ve always said…that’cha…ya need me…"

 

**Yeah I do partner…that’s why you’ve gotta fight and pull through this**

 

Applying more pressure to Johnny’s wound, Roy slightly grinned, as he replied, "Nah Johnny, I didn’t mess up, as a matter of fact, I did just fine.  But yeah, I do need’cha and that’s why you have to hang on…but I asked and…those guys…they still wouldn’t let me call an ambulance for you…I’ve gotta get you outta here."

 

Trying again to shift around to ease his breathing, Johnny said, "May not…need ta’ worry… ’bout it…Roy…minute ‘go…guess… moved tha’…wrong way…lung…think I’ve…the bullet…think it’s…punctured it…I can’t… can’t …breathe…"

 

Johnny started coughing again, as blood came up.

 

Leaning his friend over a bit to keep him from choking, Roy said, "Easy partner, easy.  Okay, stay still and calm, and try to breathe easy, you’ll be fine.  If it’s the last thing I do, I’m gonna get us…"

 

Roy became angry, hearing that his partner couldn’t breathe and seeing the blood, but before he could finish his sentence, canisters of tear gas crashed through the doors and windows of the bank. Knowing where the oxygen was, Roy quickly went over to it and grabbed it, as he brought it and placed it beside his best friend, placing the mask over his partner’s face.

 

"Breathe Johnny, just use the O2, and keep your eyes closed…I think we’re just about to get outta here."

 

Whispering through the mask, Johnny said, "Good…keepin’ my…eyes closed…I…I can…do that…’bout time…they got…their…butts in …in gear…but Roy if…somethin’ …happens…ta’ me and…I…I don’t…don’t make it…just know that…this wasn’t…your fault …and that you’re…the…the best friend…I could…have …ever asked…for or hoped …ta’ have…I can’t…can’t…breathe…air…I need…need air…"

 

“You’re the best friend I’ve ever had Junior…but I’m not gonna let anything happen to you …I promise.” Roy softly whispered to his partner and best friend.

 

“Thanks…Pally…”

 

Johnny lost consciousness as Roy quickly lifted the mask and wiped the blood away from his mouth, then he placed the oxygen mask back on his partner’s face.  While keeping pressure on his friend’s abdominal wound, Roy tried to keep his own face covered from the gas, as his eyes started to tear up.  With all the confusion, the police easily stormed the bank, taking control of it, and after getting Les and Bud in handcuffs, they took them outside, to the waiting police cars.

 

As the police were evacuated the building, Roy spotted Vince coming inside, and called him over to help with his partner.

 

"Vince…over here, I need help with Johnny!"

 

As Vince ran over to help his friends, he was surprised to see the condition that Johnny was in.  Getting himself together, Vince quickly knelt down by the paramedic, and carefully lifted him up into his arms.

 

"Okay, let’s get ‘im outta here."

 

Roy grabbed the biophone and the oxygen, as the policeman carefully carried the dark haired paramedic outside.  As they came out of the building, they saw another ambulance pull up, as the attendants parked and got out.

 

Shouting to them, Roy said, "Malcolm, Roger, bring that gurney over here fast, raise the head up as far as it’ll go!"

 

Bringing the gurney over, with the head fully raised, Vince carefully laid Johnny on his side, just long enough for Roy to free his best friend’s wrists…afterward, the two men gently turned the young paramedic over on his back, getting him positioned on the stretcher.  Roy then got on the biophone, to let Rampart know what was going on, as Vince hurriedly got the rest of the equipment from the squad. 

 

“Vince, our drug box is still inside…can you get it for me?”

 

Seeing one of the officers going back inside, Vince called out to him.

 

“I’ll get Chip to bring it out, he’s goin’ inside.  Peters…the paramedic’s drug box is inside the bank…bring it out here, quick!”

 

“You got it Vince…hang on a second!”

 

Officer Chip Peters quickly ran inside and retrieved the drug box.  Bringing it out, he placed it beside Vince, who opened it up, and took out the stethoscope and B/P cuff for Roy.

 

"Thanks Vince…hang on to it a minute for me.  Rampart, this is Squad 51, how do you read?"

 

"51, this is Rampart, go ahead." Brackett replied.

 

"Rampart, we have a 24 year old male…he has a gunshot wound to the abdomen and has a head injury from hitting his head…the bleeding from the head injury is now controlled, but I’m having a hard time with the abdominal bleeding…Doc, the victim is Johnny…he was shot in the bank hold up and he is now unconscious again…stand by for vital signs."

 

"10-4 51, we’re standing by."

 

**How did I know something was gonna happen…how did I know…that’s what Roy was trying to tell me before…Johnny**

 

Vince replaced the oxygen mask on Johnny, while Roy got his friend’s vitals and listened to his lung sounds, he then got back on the biophone with Rampart.  That’s when he saw Squad 64 pull on the scene…he motioned the two paramedics over.

 

"Hang on a second guys.  Rampart, this is Squad 51."

 

"Go ahead 51."

 

Taking a breath, Roy answered, and said, "Rampart, Johnny is still unconscious…his vital signs are, Pulse is 135, B/P is 70/50 and his respirations are 30 and extremely labored…just before unconsciousness, he was in respiratory distress and listening to his lungs, there are decreased breath sounds on the left side and he started to cough up blood… he has also thrown up…his pupils are dilated and sluggish, but they are responsive."

 

"10-4 51, start an IV, Lactated Ringers, continue with the oxygen and controlling the

bleeding, keep me posted on his B/P and update me on any change in his condition.  Get him in here stat."

 

"10-4 Rampart, ambulance is on scene, and our ETA is…is seven minutes."

 

"10-4 51."

 

Looking up at Raymond Connors and Paul Mason, Squad 64’s paramedics, Roy said, “One of you guys are gonna have ta’ take our squad in…I’m ridin’ in with Johnny.”

 

“No problem Roy, I can take the squad into Rampart for ya.” Raymond answered.

 

“Sure, and I’ll bring ours in and meet’cha there.  You just take care of Johnny.” Paul replied.”

 

Looking from the two paramedics to his friend, Roy replied, “Oh, don’t worry…I am.  Come on, let’s get ‘im outta here.”

 

With that settled, Johnny was quickly loaded up for the trip into Rampart.

 

~J~J~J~J~J~J~

 

About four and a half minutes into the ride to Rampart, Johnny had regained consciousness, momentarily, and he was in pain and had become even more agitated.  Quietly, he spoke through the oxygen mask.

 

"Roy…Roy I…”

 

“What’s wrong Junior…are you sick again?”

 

“No Pally…not sick…just can’t…I can’t…catch my…my breath…hurts…bad…scared…I can’t…breathe…"

 

Knowing that the head of the gurney was up as far as it would go, Roy quickly grabbed two pillows and with the help of Malcolm, gently eased his partner up and placed them behind his best friend to raise him up more.

 

As he prepared to retake Johnny’s B/P, Roy said, "Hang on Johnny, we’re almost to the hospital.  Slow your breathing down…calm down and take slow, easy breaths, that’ll help.  Are the pillows helpin’ any?"

 

After a moment, Johnny panted, "No…still can’t…god it…hurts…Roy help…help…me…"

 

Johnny again lost consciousness, and as Roy checked his breathing, he said, "Respiratory arrest… Malcolm, roll the head down and start baggin’ ‘im…Roger, pull over!"

 

As the ambulance and Squads 51 and 64 all pulled off the road, Malcolm quickly but carefully pulled the pillows out from behind Johnny, throwing them out of the way, and quickly did as the older paramedic ordered.  As Roy got back on the biophone to update Rampart on the latest development, Paul and Raymond quickly made it to the ambulance and pulled open the doors.

 

“What’s happenin’?” Raymond asked.

 

As they looked at Johnny, the two paramedics didn’t need for Roy to answer, they knew what was going on with their friend.  Roy didn’t answer, as he got in touch with the hospital.

 

"Rampart, this is Squad 51, how do you read?"

 

"Go ahead 51."

 

Reading the airway, Roy said, "Rampart, Johnny has gone into respiratory arrest, he’s being bagged now…request esophageal airway."

 

**Come on Johnny…don’t do this to us man** Paul thought.

 

"10-4 on the esophageal 51.  What’s your ETA?"

 

Looking at his watch, Roy replied, "We’re on the side of the road right now…maybe about three to five minutes Rampart."

 

"10-4 51, bring Johnny straight to Treatment Room one when you get him here.  Give me another B/P as soon as you established the airway."

 

"10-4 Rampart, stand by."

 

“Standing by 51.”

 

**Come on Johnny…hang in there for us**

 

Laying the phone down and turning to the attendant, Roy said, "Okay Malcolm, stop baggin’ ‘im."

 

Malcolm stopped and got out of Roy’s way.  Getting at his best friend’s head, Roy paused, knowing what he had to do to help his partner and best friend, but also knowing how invasive it was, DeSoto didn’t know if he would be able to do it. 

 

Seeing the paramedic’s hesitation, Paul asked, “Roy…come on man, you gotta get Johnny breathin’ again.  Roy, do you want me or Raymond to do that?”

 

Momentarily closing his eyes, Roy took a deep breath, and said, “No Paul…I need ta’ do this.”

 

Raymond looked at his watch, checking the time since Johnny had stopped breathing, as Roy was finally able to get himself back into paramedic mode, as he carefully inserted the airway, and taking the ambu bag, he attached it to the tube and assisted his friend with his breathing.

 

After a moment, Roy said, "Okay Malcolm, take over…let me get his B/P.  Let’s get movin’ Roger!"

 

“We’ll be right behind’cha Roy.” Raymond said.

 

Roy nodded his head, and as the doors to the ambulance were closed, Paul tapped them twice, and the vehicle pulled away, with the two squads right behind them.  Malcolm traded places with Roy and breathed for the injured paramedic, as Roy took another blood pressure …DeSoto frowned at the low reading, but somehow, he wasn’t surprised, but he was scared and worried for his best friend.

 

Reaching for the biophone, Roy said, "Rampart, Squad 51."

 

By the tone he heard in Roy’s voice, Kel knew it wasn’t going to be good news.

 

"Go ahead 51."

 

"Rampart, airway is in and Johnny’s breathing is assisted.  B/P has dropped to 60/30, he is in shock."

 

"What’s your ETA now 51?"

 

Looking up, Roy replied, "ETA is about a minute and a half Rampart."

 

"10-4 51, I’ll meet you out front.”

 

As Kel left the base station, he saw Dixie coming down the hall towards him.

 

Grabbing her arm to stop her, Kel said, "Dix, get treatment one set up right now with a chest tube, some plasma and the bird respirator…call the blood bank and have 6 units of AB negative on stand by for the OR, with more ready at a moments notice, we’ll probably need it…then get a portable x-ray down here stat and have them standing by…it’s…”

 

Seeing her friend’s hesitation, Dixie became worried.  Somehow, with Kel acting like this, she was scared over what it might be…the first thing that came into her mind was that Johnny or Roy had been hurt while they were in the bank…but she hoped she was wrong.

 

“Kel…who is it?  Oh no…please, tell me it’s not one of the boys.”

 

Kel couldn’t help but let a small smile come to his face, hearing the head nurse say that …one of the boys… that’s how Dixie had always thought of 51’s paramedics…the boys …her boys…not only the two best and most dedicated paramedics that Los Angeles county had ever seen, but two of her best friends, that she cared a great deal for, and always worried about.

 

Remembering the seriousness of what was coming in and who it was, Kel let the smile fade away.

 

Taking a deep breath, Brackett replied, “I wish I could, but…it is…its Johnny…he’s pretty bad and Roy’s bringing him in.  I don’t know exactly how it happened or why, Roy didn’t go into any of the details…but…Johnny was shot while they were inside the bank…so hurry and set up the treatment room, Roy said that they were pulling in just a minute ago, so I need to get out there.  Also, page Joe, I’m probably gonna need some help."

 

"Right away Kel."

 

**Johnny…how did this happen to you…you’ve got to be alright, so hang on**

 

Dixie had answered and had been standing at the base station with Kel when the call from 51 had come in about the heart patient and then being held hostage in the bank, so it was hard for Dix to now comprehend that Johnny had now become a patient himself.  As Kel quickly headed for the Emergency entrance and his friends, Dixie went in and quickly readied Treatment Room one, made the necessary calls, then had Doctor Early paged. 

 

“This is Nurse McCall in the ER, page Doctor Early to Treatment Room one, stat.”

 

Hanging up the phone in the treatment room, the announcement was immediately heard, as it came over the overhead speaker.

 

{Doctor Early to Treatment Room One, Stat…Doctor Early to Treatment Room One, Stat}

 

Just as Kel made it to the doors, he saw Roy, Malcolm and Roger rushing in with the injured paramedic…64’s paramedics were close behind.

 

Roy, how is he?”

 

As he continued to bag his friend, Roy replied, “Not good Doc…I can’t control the bleeding. Johnny was so agitated because he…he couldn’t breathe…he was coughin’ up blood, so I think one of his lungs was hit by that bullet.”

 

“Okay, let’s get him into treatment one.”

 

As Brackett and the others made it to the treatment room door, so did Joe Early.

 

“Sorry Kel, I had to come from the sixth floor.  What have you…Johnny…what happened?”

 

“Joe, let’s get him intubated, and Dix, get another B/P.  I’ll get the chest tube inserted.”

 

“Right Kel.” they both answered.

 

As they all entered the treatment room and transferred Johnny from the gurney to the exam table, Kel placed the chest tube, and after hearing a pop, the Doctor secured it in place, then he began his examination.  Dixie filled Joe in on what had happened to their young friend, as Doctor Early intubated Johnny and got him on the respirator, as Dixie took another blood pressure. 

 

“And he was shot while they were inside the bank.  But the robbers are in custody, right Roy?” Dixie asked.

 

Still looking at his partner, Roy finally answered, and said, “Ah…yeah, yeah they are.  The police stormed the bank, after we got that lady and her baby out.  Doc…is Johnny gonna be alright?”

 

“Kel, his B/P is 55/30.”

 

After checking Johnny over, and just as Brackett was about to answer Roy, the portable x-ray unit was brought into the room. 

 

“Hang the plasma, have it wide opened.  I don’t know yet Roy, we’ll have to get some pictures so we’ll know what we’re up against.  We’ve also gotta get him up to the OR…he’s hemorrhaging.”

 

**I’m sorry partner…I shoulda been able to have warned you sooner…please be alright Junior**

 

Motioning for Chuck to come over to the treatment table, Kel said, “Chuck, give me a full skull, chest and abdominal series…I need them stat.”

 

“You got it Doc.”

 

As Chuck was getting ready to take the asked for x-rays, everyone was turning to leave the room…except Roy.  All he was able to do was stand there, starring at his unconscious partner and best friend, as Johnny continued to bleed through the bandages.

 

Stepping over to the paramedic, Joe softly said, “Roy, come on, let’s step outside and let Chuck do his job.”

 

Roy ignored the Doctor, and stepped over closer to Johnny.  Touching his arm, Roy softly spoke to his best friend.

 

“Johnny…come on partner…you can fight this…don’t you dare die on me, do you hear me…don’t you die on me Junior…they’re gonna take some pictures and take you to surgery, but I’ll be right here when you wake up…just don’t give up.”

 

Chuck continued to stand, patiently waiting for the paramedic and the others to leave the room, but Roy just continued to stand there, looking at his best friend.  Finally, Kel had to go over to him.

 

Tugging gently on his arm, Brackett said, “Roy…come on, I know you’re worried about Johnny…we all are…but we’re wasting time in treating him…we have to get these x-rays.  Come on Roy, you’ll be able to come back in after Chuck gets through.”

 

Feeling the tug and somehow hearing Brackett, but acting as if he had just come out of a trance, Roy blinked a few times, as he realized that the Doctor was right, him standing there was holding up getting his best friend the treatment that he desperately needed.

 

Finally answering, Roy said, “Huh…ah yeah…yeah, you’re right Doc…sorry.  I’ll be back in a few minutes Junior.”

 

With that, Roy and the others left Johnny alone, so Chuck could take the x-rays.  Once out in the hall, Roy nervously spoke.

 

“Doc…Johnny’s gotta be alright.  You all saw ‘im…how bad is he…really?”

 

Before anyone answered Roy, Kel looked at Dixie, and said, “Dix, call and make sure there’s an OR availiable and check on the blood again…make sure it’s ready.”

 

The head nurse shook her head and went to the nurse’s station to make the calls.  The two Doctors looked at each other before Doctor Early spoke.

 

“Roy, with us not being able to control the bleeding, you know that isn’t good…his lung collapsed, his head injury…he is critical, but we’re gonna do everything we can for him.”

 

“Yeah, I know…I know you will.” Roy softly answered.

 

As Chuck came out of the treatment room, he said, “Doc, give me five minutes and I’ll have these for ya.”

 

“Thanks Chuck.” Brackett answered.

 

Everyone made their way back inside as Chuck hurried to x-ray to develop the pictures.

 

As Chuck hurriedly entered the room, he ran into Jeffery Randolph, another x-ray technician, who noticed the rush his friend was in.

 

“Hey Chucky, what’s the hurry…what’cha got?” Jeff asked.

 

Looking at the file as he spoke, Chuck replied, “Man, I just came from Treatment Room one…there’s an injured paramedic up there and I’ve gotta get these back up to Brackett and Early…fast.  Wanna bet, if he makes it through this, that he becomes a steady customer of ours? I mean, don’t get me wrong, he looked pretty bad…well, he *is* bad, blood all over the place…and I hope the guy…ah…John Gage…is gonna be alright, but he just looks like the type to be a little accident prone.”

 

Thinking a minute, Jesse said, “The accident prone type huh…sure, what have I got to lose…I’ll bet’cha.”

 

The two men made the bet, and then Chuck went to develop the films. 

 

~J~J~J~J~J~J~

 

Everyone made their way back inside the treatment room…and over to Johnny.  Once there, Dixie checked his vitals again, while Kel and Joe tried to control the bleeding… Roy stood, just watching and worrying, as his best friend was being worked on.

 

As Joe continued to try to control the bleeding, Kel checked Johnny’s pupils again.

 

“B/P hasn’t changed Kel, still 55/30.”

 

“His pupils are dilated more and slower to respond.  Where’s those x-rays? Kel angrily asked.

 

Joe motioned for Dixie to take over for him, as he wiped off his hands and walked over to the phone.

 

“Hang on Kel, I’ll call and see what’s going on.”

 

As he was about to pick up the receiver, the phone rang.

 

“Treatment Room one, Doctor Early…okay thank you, we’ll get him right up there.  Kel, that was the OR, they said room 5 was ready for us.  We can take Johnny up now.”

 

“Okay Joe, thanks.  When you get hold of somebody in x-ray, tell them to get off their butts and get those films up to OR 5…right now.”

 

“Will do Kel…then I’ll be on up there.”

 

While Joe got on the phone, the orderlies came in and transferred Johnny from the table to the gurney to take him to surgery.  Roy stayed right by his best friend’s side until they reached the elevators.

 

Turning to Roy, Kel said, “We’ll let you know something as soon as we can.  Go to the lounge, get some coffee and try to relax…it may be a while.”

 

Roy could only shake his head yes, as Joe slid passed him and got on the elevator with the others, and the doors closed.

 

“Please Johnny…hang on and fight this.” Roy softly whispered to himself.

 

Roy, we’ve gotta be gettin’ back…let us know how it goes, okay.” Paul said.

 

Rubbing his hand over his face, Roy replied, “Yeah…yeah Paul, I will.  Listen…thanks you guys, for all your help…I appreciate it…and I know Johnny does to.”

 

“Hey, anytime Roy…Johnny’s a good guy, he’ll be fine.  Well, we better get back to the station.” Raymond answered.

 

After the two paramedics walked away, Roy suddenly felt a hand on his shoulder, and turning, he saw it was Dixie…Roy watched, as she tried her best to keep that reassuring smile on her face…but they both knew that she had failed.  She knew as well as the others that Johnny was in critical condition, and the outcome could go either way.

 

“Come on Roy, let’s go to the staff lounge and get a cup of coffee.  And I want you to listen ta’ me…Johnny’s gonna be alright…really, he is.  Remember how he…and Kel, for that matter…came through that deadly virus they caught…then remember, here just a couple of months ago when that rattlesnake bit him…and he came through that?”

 

Taking a breath, Roy said, “Yeah, I remember…Johnny did…they both did.  I know that Johnny seems to bounce back, no matter what he comes up against but…this…I just don’t know Dix…it’s hard to think positive when you’ve sittin’ there, watchin’ your best friend bleedin’ ta’ death…and nothin’ that you try to do for him seems to help…well, you saw bad he was bleeding.”

 

Rubbing his arm, Dixie replied, “I know, I did see how bad he is, but Roy…you did all that you were able to do for him, and now it’s up to the Doctors…and Johnny…but he’ll pull this, just like all the other times…look at it this way, how many times has Johnny himself said how tough he is.  Come on, I’ve got a break coming up and I could really use some coffee… that partner of yours really knows how to keep all of us on our toes around here.”

 

“Yeah…he does.  A cup of coffee sounds good, but I need to go up to the fourth floor and the nursery real fast…I wanna check up on a patient, the pregnant lady that was in the bank with us.  Then I need to call Cap and he can let the rest of the guys know what’s happened …I know they’re off shift by now.”

 

“You can use the phone in the lounge to call the guys.  Go on upstairs, I’ll meet’cha in there.”

 

“Okay Dix…thanks.”

 

Pushing the button, then getting on the elevator, he went up to the fourth floor and went to the nurse’s station.

 

“Hi Roy, what brings you here?” Nurse Connie McReynolds asked. 

 

“Hey Connie.  Well, I’m here at Rampart because me and Johnny had responded to a heart attack patient in a bank…some guys were trying to rob it and unfortunately, Johnny was hurt…he was shot.  He’s pretty bad and they’ve got ‘im in surgery now.  But…I’m up here to see a patient …a Robin Weatherly.”

 

Looking through the charts, Connie said, “Ah, let’s see…Weatherly… Weatherly…yeah, here she is, room 416.  I think she has the baby in with her.”

 

“Okay, thanks.  I’ll step in for a minutes then get back downstairs…I wanna be down there when they come in with the news about Johnny.”

 

“Well, I hope that partner of yours is gonna be alright.”

 

Looking at his hands, Roy softly replied, “Yeah…so do I.  Thanks Connie.”

 

Roy walked away and when he reached room 416, he knocked.

 

“Come in.”

 

Pushing the door open, Roy said, Hi, remember me?”

 

“Of course I do, come on in Roy, it’s good to see you.  Mike, this is Roy, the paramedic who delivered Jill…Roy, this is my husband, Mike.”

 

Stretching out his hand, Roy said, “It’s good to meet you Mr. Weatherly.”

 

Returning the handshake, Mike replied, “You too…and call me Mike.  I really appreciate what you did for Robin and Jill, Mr. DeSoto.  I don’t know what she would have done without you.”

 

“Oh, call me Roy, please.  And you’re welcome, just doing my job.  I just wanted to see how you two were doing.”

 

Holding the baby up for Roy to see, Robin said, “We’re both doing fine.  Ah, I was wondering, how’s your partner doing…Johnny right?”

 

Taking a deep breath, Roy said, “Doctor Brackett and Doctor Early had to take him into emergency surgery…he ah…he was hemorrhaging and they couldn’t get it controlled, but I haven’t heard anything yet. 

 

“Oh no, I’m so sorry Roy.”

 

Trying to sound convincing, Roy replied, “Thanks…but, that partner of mine…he’s tough …he’ll be okay… he has to be.  Well, I don’t wanna interrupt anymore than I already have, I better get back downstairs and wait for news on my partner.  You guys take care.”

 

Walking Roy to the door, Mike said, “We will.  And again, we really appreciate what you did.  And would you let us know about Johnny, how he’s doing?”

 

**I just hope I have somethin’ good to tell you**

 

“Well, you’re welcome, and yeah, I’ll keep you posted.  See you later.”

 

“Bye Roy.”

 

“Bye.”

 

Walking out of the room and passing the nurse’s station, Roy waved at Connie and the others, as he quickly made his way back to the Doctor’s lounge to await news on his best friend and partner

 

~J~J~J~J~J~J~

 

Reaching the first floor and making his way into the staff lounge, Roy saw Dixie standing at the coffeepot, getting a cup of coffee.

 

“Dix…have you heard any news on Johnny yet?” Roy hopefully asked.

 

Turning and handing Roy the cup, Dixie replied, “No Roy, nothing yet.  With the shape he was in, it may take awhile…here you go, why don’t you sit down, you look tired.  And, I hope you won’t mind, but I went on and called Hank for you, explained what happened, and he said that he would let the others know and they would be here as soon as they could.”

 

The head nurse was right, DeSoto was exhausted, and as Roy took a sip of coffee, he went and took a seat at the table, as Dixie got her coffee and then joined him.

 

“Thanks Dix, I don’t mind at all…I’m glad you did.”

 

While they were at the station, the crew had heard the call come in for another squad to assist 51 at the bank, and they knew their friends were being held hostage, but what Hank and the others didn’t know was that Johnny had been seriously injured.  So when Dixie called Stanley at home, telling him what had happened, and he passed the word along to the others, they were all surprised when they were told that their youngest crewmember was undergoing emergency surgery at Rampart General.

 

As the men finally reached Rampart, they quickly made their way to the lounge, knowing that was the place that they would find Roy, waiting to hear news about his best friend.  When they entered the room, they saw Roy and Dixie sitting at the table.

 

Roy, how’s Johnny?”

 

Looking up at his Captain, Roy nervously answered, and said, “We haven’t heard anything yet Cap but…well, he wasn’t doin’ too good when Brackett and Early took ‘im upstairs…he was…he was hemorrhaging and…they couldn’t get it under control.  They also had to put him on an a respirator.”

 

“How long has he been in surgery?” Chet asked.

 

Looking at her watch, Dixie replied, “Only about thirty, forty minutes Chet…give or take a few minutes.”

 

Marco took a seat at the table, and asked, “But, Johnny is going to be okay…isn’t he?”

 

Being worried, all Roy could do was shrug his shoulders and shake his head, as he said, “I don’t know Marco…I just don’t know.”

 

“So you don’t know how long he’ll be up in the OR?”

 

“No Mike, it’s gonna depend on how severe the damage is and how long it takes Doctor Brackett and Doctor Early to repair it.  Why don’t you guys grab a cup of coffee…it’s gonna be awhile.” Dixie said.

 

With the four men agreeing, they got their coffee, and as they settled themselves down in the chairs and on the couch, they waited to hear news about their friend.

 

~J~J~J~J~J~J~

 

After an hour and a half, and still no word, Dixie could see that all the men were getting restless…especially Roy.  Even though the head nurse had checked several times, she had been unable to find out anything, except that Johnny was still in surgery.

 

After another thirty minutes had passed, and deciding to go check again, she said, “Guys, I’ll go see if I can find anything out now.  I’ll be back in a few minutes.”

 

“Thanks Dix.” Roy replied.

 

As the head nurse walked out the door, Chet said, “He’s been up there for what…two hours now…I can’t believe this is takin’ so long.”

 

“Two and a half…and I can’t believe this even happened.” Mike replied. 

 

Chet, Marco and Hank all agreed with the Engineer, then Roy spoke up.

 

Being upset, Roy said, “I can’t either…and it’s my fault…I shoulda been able to warn him sooner.”

 

Pulling out a chair from the table and sitting down, Hank said, “Roy, don’t do this to yourself…this was not your fault.  You and John went into that bank to help someone… which you did…well two people actually…but you didn’t know that Johnny would try what he did…so stop blaming yourself.  I’m sure that Johnny’ll be fine.”

 

“I don’t know about that this time Cap, I’m havin’ my doubts.  He’s pretty bad, and he was…”

 

Roy was interrupted by Dixie coming back into the room.  The senior paramedic was the first to reach the head nurse.

 

“Dix…did you find out anything?”

 

“I was able to speak to Sandra Martin, the OR nurse…and from what she said, Johnny did fine during the operation…they did have a little trouble getting the bleeding under control, but they finally did, and he’s holding his own.  Right now they’re getting ready to move him into recovery.”

 

Sighs of relief went around the room, as the men heard the good news.  Chet spoke up.

 

“So…Johnny’s gonna be okay then?”

 

“He should be Chet.  But we’ll find out in a few minutes…Kel and Joe are on their way down to talk to all of you, just try to relax.  I’ll be right back.”

 

As Dixie left the room, the guys relaxed, as they waited for the Doctors.  Twenty minutes later, Joe, Kel and Dixie came back into the room…smiles on their faces.

 

“Well, from what Dixie told us and with the smiles, can we take it that John’s gonna be alright?” Hank asked hopefully.

 

“Yeah you can.  It’ll take a while before he gets his strength back, but we feel he’ll make a complete recovery…again.” Joe replied.

 

“Doc, that’s great.  Can we see ‘im?” Roy asked.

 

Answering, Kel said, “I know you all wanna see him, but right now, he’s in recovery, so you’ll have to wait a little while.  We finally got the x-rays in the OR, the bullet did hit his left lung and Johnny has a hairline skull fracture from where he hit his head…we’re gonna put him in ICU, just to watch him while he’s on the ventilator and for any complications from the head injury.  We’re hoping that there won’t be any from either injury, and if there aren’t, we’ll get him settled into a private room sometime after we take him off the ventilator.  It should be about an hour before we move him from recovery.”

 

“Then can we see him?” Marco asked.

 

“Yeah, I’ll come and let’cha know.  I’ll go check on ‘im and be back a little later.” Brackett replied.

 

Extending his hand, Hank shook hands with the Doctors, as he said, “Doctor Brackett, Doctor Early…thank you…you saved Johnny, yet again.”

 

Also shaking the Doctor’s hands, Roy added, “That’s right, we *do* appreciate it.  I’m just glad he’s gonna be alright…when we were in that bank and he started havin’ trouble…well, needless ta’ say, he scared me to death.”

 

“You guys are welcome.  Well, I’m gonna go change and check in on some other patients, I’ll check back in on Johnny a little later.  See you guys later.”

 

“See ya Doc.” the men answered.

 

With that, Doctor Early walked out of the room and to the Doctor’s lounge to change.

 

“And I’ll get back up to recovery and check on Johnny.”

 

“Doc…thanks again.”

 

“Anytime Roy.  I’ll be back in a little while…I have to go have a little chat with someone, after I check on Johnny.”

 

Hearing the tone in Brackett’s voice, Chet whispered, Uh oh…somebody’s in trouble.”

 

Looking at Chet, Kel replied, “Yeah…he is.”

 

With that, Kel left the relived firefighters standing in the lounge, as he went to check on their young friend, and talk to the X-ray Technician. 

 

~J~J~J~J~J~J~

 

After another hour had passed, Brackett came back into the lounge and talked with the crew from the station. 

 

“Hey guys, we got Johnny moved into ICU, but we have him sedated so he won’t wake up and fight the tube…so he won’t be able to talk to you.  Would you like to go see him now?”

 

Looking around at his friends, and everyone nodding their heads, Roy answered, “Yeah Doc, we would.”

 

“Come with me then.”

 

As they got off the elevator, they made their way to the ICU.  Before going in, Kel turned to his friends and spoke.

 

“Guys, we have quite a few people in the ICU, so you’re gonna have to go in two at a time, and you won’t be able to stay very long.”

 

“Doc…I know you said that you’ve got him sedated but…will Johnny be able to hear us?” Chet asked.

 

“I think he might be able to, but like I said, because of the vent and the sedation, he won’t be able to respond.  Just go on in and talk to ‘im for a little bit, keep what you say to ‘im positive though, but just don’t stay too long…he needs his rest.  I’ll see you guys later.”

 

Kel walked over to the nurse’s station, and picked up Johnny’s chart, adding notes to it.

 

“Cap…I’d like to go in first.”

 

“Sure Roy, no problem.  Then we’ll pair up and go in…we’ll be waiting out here at the nurse’s station.”

 

Roy slowly walked into ICU and Johnny’s cubicle, and as the others in the crew stood with Brackett at the nurse’s station, Hank spoke up.

 

“Doc, what happened with the x-ray tech?  Roy had told us it took awhile to get John’s x-rays.”

 

Looking up from Johnny’s chart, Kel said, “Well Hank, after chewing him out for taking so long with the films, I talked with his supervisor and Mac suspended him for a week.  That was uncalled for and it caused us to lose time in treating Johnny.”

 

“Why *did* it take so long?” Mike asked.

 

“You won’t believe this…but he was making a bet with another technician…that Johnny would become a “steady customer” of theirs…as he put it.  I didn’t believe it myself.”

 

None of the men could believe it either.  Looking back into ICU, they could only hope that their youngest crewmember was going to be alright.

 

As Roy reached the bed, he saw the tube in his partner’s chest, now, only a small amount of blood was still draining from it…he saw the IV, and heard the ventilator that was helping his best friend breathe…he also saw the bandage that covered his friend’s head injury.

 

“Hey partner…Junior, we gotta stop doin’ this…this makes what…three times you’ve ended up in here so far.  Anyway listen, I can’t stay long, even though I want to but, Cap and the guys are out in hall waitin’ to come in ta’ see ya for a few minutes.  I’m tellin’ ya Johnny…when you started havin’ trouble breathin’ and coughin’ up blood…you really scared me.  I’m so sorry that I couldn’t warn you sooner…if I had, maybe you wouldn’t have been hurt…but…you’re gonna pull through and be okay…you can do this, I know you can.  Well, I better let the rest of the guys come in and see ya…I’ll be back later, I promise …just hang on and fight this Johnny, you’ll be fine.”

 

Roy gently touched his partner’s shoulder, and then he turned and made his way back out to the nurse’s station and his friends.

 

“Cap, you guys can go on in now.”

 

“Okay Roy…Michael, you wanna come with me…then Marco and…”

 

Interrupting, Chet said, “Cap, can I go with you…if Stoker doesn’t mind?”

 

Knowing that Chet wanted to get inside to see his “pigeon”, Mike spoke up.

 

“Sure Chet, go ahead, I don’t mind.  I’ll go in with Marco.”

 

“Thanks Mikey.”

 

Chet started walking towards Johnny’s bed and Hank quickly followed to catch up with him.

 

As everyone else did, Kel also knew that Johnny and Chet had an…unusual…type of friendship…with the pranks that they played on one another, so he wasn’t surprised that Chet was in a hurry to go see the dark haired paramedic.

 

As the two men disappeared, Kel said, “Chet really does care for Johnny…even if their relationship is a bit…well…strange.  I remember when you guys brought Johnny in after that snake bit ‘im…Chet never left his side till he knew that Johnny was gonna make it.”

 

“Strange isn’t the word for it…try…off the wall maybe…but yeah Doc, Chet does.  Well, they both care about each other, but neither one of them would ever admit it.” Roy replied.

 

Marco and Mike both shook their heads in agreement.  A few minutes later, Hank and Chet came back to the nurse’s station, as Mike and Marco made their way to see and spend a few minutes with their friend.

 

~J~J~J~J~J~J~

 

A few days later, Kel was able to remove the tube from Johnny’s chest, and after a week, the paramedic was taken off the ventilator and was breathing fine on his own.  He had been taken out of ICU and placed in a private room where his friends were able to visit and stay with him.  Gage had finally started showing some signs of regaining consciousness, as Roy continued to stay with his best friend, talking to him.

 

Hearing his partner stirring again, Roy folded the paper he was reading and laid it aside.

 

Leaning toward the bed, and softly speaking, Roy asked, “Hey partner…can you hear me?  That’s it, open your eyes for me.”

 

Slowly opening his eyes, and being a little bit agitated, Johnny slowly turned his head to look at his partner, as he spoke.

 

“Hey Roy…what’cha…doin’ here…what am I…doin’ here…where’s…where’s here… what’s goin’…goin’ on…where am I…?”

 

As Johnny tried to sit up in the bed, he winced from the pain in his chest and abdomen.  Roy quickly placed his hands on his friend’s shoulders and stopped him, as he tried to settle him down.

 

“Ahhh…hurts…what happen’d…ta’ me…?

 

“Easy Johnny, don’t move…it hasn’t been long since Doc took you off the vent and took out the chest tube…but you still have oxygen and an IV, so just lay still and rest…you’re in Rampart.”

 

Still being confused, Johnny asked, “Hos…hospital…why…?”

 

“On that last run we had, in the bank, you were shot…but Brackett and Early told us that you did fine during the surgery and that you’re gonna be alright, and you’ll make a full recovery.”

 

Slowly lying back on the pillow, Johnny placed his hand on his head and gently rubbed it…he felt the bandage covering the wound.

 

“Shot…please tell me that…it wasn’t in tha’…tha’ head…it and my throat…they hurt bad…I’m so tired and…sleepy…”

 

“No, it wasn’t in the head…after you were shot, you fell and hit your head on the side of the desk, and Doc said that the x-rays showed only a hairline skull fracture, but you’re gonna be alright from that to…and you had the tube down your throat to help you breathe, that’s why your throat hurts.  The rest of the guys are outside, they wanted to see you when you decided to wake up, but Doc told us that we couldn’t stay long.  Are you up to a few more visitors?”

 

Sleepily answering, Johnny yawned, and replied, “Yeah…just a few…few minutes though …need ta’ sleep…”

 

Patting his friend on the shoulder, Roy said, “Okay Johnny, I’ll be right back.”

 

Leaving the room and stepping out into the hall, Roy spoke to his friends.

 

“Cap, guys, Johnny’s awake now, but if you wanna see ‘im, you better get in there…he’s *real* sleepy.”

 

Nodding the men quickly made their way into Johnny’s room.  Cap stepped to the foot of the bed and was the first to speak to the paramedic. 

 

“Hey John…how you feelin’?”

 

Taking a breath, Johnny slowly reopened his eyes, and softly answering, he said, “Hey Cap…I’ve felt better…but doin’…doin’ pretty good…”

 

Leaning on the side rail, Chet said, “’Bout time you woke up Gage, I thought I was gonna have to come in here and throw ya outta the bed.”

 

Only slightly smiling, Johnny replied, “You prob’ly…could do it…I’m awfully weak…and tired…”

 

The guys realized that Johnny wasn’t back to his old self, when the pigeon didn’t even joke with the phantom.  

 

“Well, at least you’re outta the woods and gettin’ better…and that’s somethin’.  You really scared us Johnny.”

 

“That’s right John, Mike’s right.  And you must have an angel looking out for you.” Marco replied.

 

Slowly nodding his head, Johnny softly replied, “Guess I do…lucky…for me but…I’m sorry I scared…you guys…don’t mean…ta’ be rude…but…I’m really…tired…can we…talk later…?”

 

“Sure Johnny, we just wanted to see how you were doin’, but we’ll go and let you rest.  We’ll be back later.” Cap said

 

As the rest of the crew said their good-byes and were ready to leave, Johnny whispered, “Thanks…guys…”

 

They stood and watched, as their young friend slowly closed his eyes and drifted back off to sleep.

 

~J~J~J~J~J~J~

 

After a couple of more weeks of being a guest at “Hotel Rampart”, Johnny was well enough to be released, and after another week at home recuperating, with his friends dropping by, giving him a lot of unwanted but very much appriciated help, he was then able to return to work.

 

As he walked into the station, he noticed that everyone from A-shift was already there, but he couldn’t hear any noise inside the building…that made him a little uneasy.  Walking into the locker room and going over to his locker, Johnny cautiosly opened it, expecting to have a welcome back water bomb from Chet to hit him…he was relieved that there was nothing, and breathing a sigh of relief, the dark-haired paramedic quickly changed into his uniform and made his way into the kitchen.

 

As he went throught the door, the young paramedic was startled by the sound of his friends, as they all suddenly surranded him, welcoming him back to the station, with handshakes, smiles and pats on the back.

 

“WELCOME BACK JOHNNY!”

 

“John, it’s good to have you back.”

 

“Yeah Johnny, we’re all glad you’re back.”

 

Shaking hands with his two co-workers, Johnny replied, “Thanks Cap, Mikey…it’s good to finally be back.”

 

“Yeah Junior, I was getin’ tired of puttin’ up with go by the book Brice, for a partner.”

 

Smiling, Johny said, “Brice huh? Sorry ‘bout that Pally…I’ll try ta’ stay outta Rampart for a while.”

 

“Well, we hope you do.” Marco replied.

 

“How ya feelin’ Johnny?”

 

Lightly rubbing his hand over his stomach, Johnny replied, “I’m a lot better than I was Mike…still a little sore though…and bored, sittin’ around that apartment all week…but I think gettin’ back ta’ work is gonna help.”

 

Chet came up behind Johnny and placed his hand on his back, as he guided him over to the table.

 

“Come on Johnny, why don’t’cha have a seat…we don’t want’cha gettin’ too tired, now do we.”

 

Suspiciously looking over at Roy, Johnny asked, “What’s the matter with him…why is he bein’ so nice ta’ me all of a sudden…and he called me Johnny.  Kelly…no offense, but you know that I don’t trust you, right…what are you up to?”

 

Walking over to the coffeepot, Chet got Johnny a cup of coffee, and as he brought it to the table, Kelly spoke.

 

Trying to sound hurt, Chet said, “None taken…but Johnny, I’m crushed…here you were, hurt on tha’ job, laid up in the hospital, and you’re just gettin’ back to work.  Now, why in the world would I be up ta’ somethin’…I’m just tryin’ to do something nice for ya ‘cause  I’m just glad you’re back…like Mikey said, we all are.”

 

“You are huh…don’t’cha mean the phantom is?” Johnny asked.

 

Before Chet could answer, Hank spoke up and said, “The phantom may be as happy to see have you back, as the rest of us are, but he’s on a little vacation…isn’t that right Kelly?”

 

Hearing the tone in his Captain’s voice, Chet knew that he had better not pull any pranks on his “pigeon”…at least, not for a while.

 

“Ah…yeah, that’s right Cap.  The pahntom did take a little vacation, he needed one…he was tired.”

 

 **But not for long…and when you get back to 100%, Gage, you are in for it from the phantom…he’ll have no mercy**

 

Taking a sip of his coffee, Johnny said, “Well, I’m glad to hear that Chet, I really don’t feel like puttin’ up with you…I mean, the phantom.”

 

Before anyone else had a chance to say anything, the tomnes sounded, sendiig the squad out on a call…sending the paramedics and Hank out into the bay.

 

“Squad 51…unknown type rescue…2242 West 46th street, apartment 6…2-2-4-2 West 46th street, apartment 6…ambulance is responding…timeout, 0804.”

 

“Squad 51 10-4 KMG365.” Hank answered.

 

As Roy passed the paper over to his partner, Roy asked, “You ready for this?”

 

Looking at the paper and letting a small smile come to his face, Johnny looked at Roy, as he replied, “Yeah…I’m ready for this.”

 

Putting the squad in gear, Roy said, “Let’s go Junior.”
 

“Right Pally.”

 

The two friends rolled out of the station and to the run Code R.  The best paramedic team in the County was together again.

 

  

THE END

 

 

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