PLAYING the GAME
By Northlander
"Squad 51 in quarters."
"Squad 51," acknowledged the voice of the dispatcher.
"So, Johnny, the week's almost over. It hasn't been so bad, has it?"
"No, Phil. I lived through it, more or less." Turning his head to look at the man sitting in the passenger seat of the squad, Johnny smiled.
"Your regular partner gets back this weekend, right? Where did you say he went?" Phil asked.
"Roy gets in Sunday. He took his family to the Grand Canyon." Pausing to concentrate on the passing traffic, Johnny proceeded to back the squad into the station house's garage. He turned off the ignition and both men exited the vehicle. Johnny chuckled softly. "They were going to Florida, but his six year old son heard from a friend at school that there were dinosaur fossils in the Grand Canyon. So, to keep the peace, he and his wife changed their plans. Actually, I think he was looking forward to it."
"I sure hope they find something. Is Roy a nature lover?" Phil asked.
"He wasn't when he left but I bet he is now," Johnny snickered. The two men continued walking into the empty kitchen. Pulling out a seat, Phil sat at the far end of the table and rested his leg on the adjacent chair. Johnny walked over to the counter to pour himself a cup of coffee. "You want some?" He raised the pot in Phil's direction.
"No thanks," Phil answered, waving off the offer.
Johnny replaced the pot on the burner and took a seat at the opposite end of the table.
"You know, John, that's the kind of stuff I hope to do when I have a family," Phil said.
"Are you and Sarah thinking of having kids?" Johnny inquired.
"Yeah, but not yet. We want to get things settled with the house first," Phil answered.
"Oh. Did you just buy it?"
"Buy it? No way. We're having it built to our specifications. I've got a piece of land about 30 miles north of the city."
"No kidding. Sounds great, but that's got to be expensive. You're going to be paying a mortgage until you retire, at least on a fireman's salary."
Phil laughed. "Money's not a problem. I won't need much of a mortgage."
"Geez, Phil, are you moonlighting or something?" Johnny asked half-seriously. "I remember when we worked rescue together at Station 8 a couple of years back, you hit everybody for a loan at one time or another. Even Stoney. He was pretty hot about it too. Didn't he threaten to run you up the flagpole?"
"Yeah, John, you're right, he did. Sarah and I were just getting by then. But things are a lot different from those days at Station 8. I don't need to moonlight."
"OK then, what's your secret?" Johnny asked.
Pushing his chair back and standing, Phil placed both hands on the table and leaned his husky six-foot three frame in Johnny's direction, looking squarely at him. He then relaxed his facial muscles. "It's all in how you play the game."
Monday Morning
A bleary-eyed Roy DeSoto sat on the bench in front of his locker. He held his uniform shirt in one fist, letting the shirttails fall to the floor, while rubbing his eyes with his other hand. The door to the locker room swung open.
"Good morning," Johnny greeted him. "Or, maybe not."
Roy looked up at his partner. "I haven't decided yet."
"Should I even ask?" Johnny inquired.
"I advise that we avoid the topic of vacations, canyons and dinosaurs for the next several days," Roy grumbled.
"OK, whatever you say, "Johnny agreed. The door swung open once again, and Captain Stanley stepped into the room.
"Morning, guys. Roll call in five minutes." He began to leave but stopped. "Hey DeSoto, welcome back. How was the dig? Did you find any bones?" Cap laughed.
"No," Roy replied, forcing a smile. "Not that we didn't try."
Cap laughed once again and walked out into the engine bay.
Johnny patted Roy's shoulder. "I promise, if we get called to rescue any vacationing dinosaurs in a canyon, I'll do it."
Roy looked at his partner and groaned. "I'll meet you outside."
************************** *************************
Johnny poked his head into Hank Stanley's office. "Cap, since I have to cook, I thought Roy and I would go to the grocery store."
"Go ahead. Make sure it's something edible this time," Hank deadpanned.
"Uh, thanks Cap," Johnny replied a bit self-consciously. He headed back in the direction of the squad where, seated behind the steering wheel, Roy waited for him.
Climbing into the passenger side, Johnny turned to his partner. "Let's go," he urged.
The first few miles were travelled in silence. "I can't take a whole day of this," Johnny thought.
"So, what can we talk about?" he asked.
"Almost anything," Roy answered. "Almost."
"Yeah, yeah, I remember. Hey did I tell you that I used to work with the guy who covered for you?"
"No, who is he?"
"His name is Phil Bennedetto. We worked together at Station 8 before I joined the paramedics. Nice enough guy."
"So he's a friend of yours?"
"No, I wouldn't say we were ever friends. We just worked together. I did know that he had joined the program."
"How was he?"
"Good. But then, he didn't have to worry. He was working with me." Johnny pushed out his chest and cleared his throat. "Wouldn't you agree?"
Smiling, Roy shook his head. "We're here." Both he and Johnny proceeded to the grocery store.
"So, chef du jour, what are we having?" Roy asked.
"Hamburgers."
Roy made a face. "Do you realize that you've made hamburgers the last three times that it's been your turn to cook?"
Johnny grinned. "No, I haven't been keeping track. But obviously you have. That's strange, Roy." He pulled out a cart and walked away. Roy followed him to the first aisle. "You know, Roy, something's weird though."
"About your cooking? Can't argue there," Roy laughed.
"Ha, ha. No, I'm talking about Phil." Johnny's face grew serious. "Something strange happened."
"Problem with a rescue?" Roy asked.
"No, that part was fine. Phil and I were talking about a new house that he and his wife are having built." Johnny stopped his story to examine a head of lettuce. Looking at the price, he tossed it back into the bin. "You guys aren't worth it," he said to Roy, jokingly.
"Neither are you," Roy responded.
Johnny gave him a sideways glance. "Anyway, I asked Phil how expensive it was going to be and he said that he didn't have to worry about money."
"Well, maybe he's been saving," Roy offered.
"Roy, I've worked with this guy. Phil never had a dime to his name. He was always broke. But, that's not the weird part."
"What do you mean?" Roy asked.
Johnny took a package of hamburger buns from the shelf and threw them into the cart. He and Roy headed towards the cashier. "When I asked him how he solved all his money problems, Phil said that it depended on how you play the game, or something like that."
Roy looked quizzically at his partner. “Maybe Phil has a gambling problem and
he's just hit it big."
Johnny paid the cashier and picked up the grocery bag. "I don't think so," he replied as they exited the store. "It was like he was daring me to ask more. The look on his face made me think it was something else."
"Like what?"
"I don't know. Phil said he wasn't moonlighting, only that things had changed since we worked at Station 8." Johnny climbed into the squad as Roy slid behind the steering wheel.
"Where does Phil work now?" Roy asked.
"Station 45."
"Oh, that's McDaniel's station, right?"
"Yeah, Captain Ron McDaniel. You know him?" Johnny asked intrigued.
Roy glanced over at him. "Only by reputation. I've heard a couple of stories."
"Go on," Johnny said excitedly.
"Well, McDaniel runs a pretty tight ship and demands complete loyalty."
"That's not so odd," Johnny interjected.
"He also rewards that loyalty with bonuses."
"I don't follow," Johnny said.
"All I know is that the guys in McDaniel's station get "paid" better than the rest of us. At least that's what I've heard. No one has been able to prove anything, though. How long has Phil been working at Station 45?"
"About 2 years. He started there around the same time I came to Station 51," Johnny answered. "So, tell me, who's your source?"
"A guy I used to work with before I joined the paramedics," Roy said. "He quit the fire department and moved up-state."
"You know, this is getting weirder by the minute, but I've got to admit that I am curious," Johnny commented. "Maybe I'll give Phil a call. We can go for a beer and talk about the old days. There must be a logical explanation."
Roy's voice took on concerned tone. "Johnny, I think you should just stay out of it. Don't get involved."
Johnny started to make a flippant remark, but stopped at seeing the earnest look on his partner's face. "Roy, you worry too much. I just want to satisfy my curiosity."
"I don't think it's a good idea," Roy persisted. "At least talk to Cap first." Roy parked the squad in the engine bay and gave his friend a worried look. I hope you know what you're getting into.
Opening the door and stepping out of the vehicle, Johnny headed towards the kitchen. He placed the bag of groceries on the counter then returned to the bay to find Roy staring idly at the wall map. "What are you looking at?" Johnny asked.
"Nothing. I'm waiting for you. Cap's in his office and I told him that we had something to discuss with him."
"Ah, Roy," Johnny complained. "Don't you think you're getting carried away with this?"
"No. Cap's waiting."
************************** *************************
Hank Stanley placed the papers back down on his desk and turned in the direction of his office doorway as the paramedics entered the room. "Hey guys. What can I do for you?" Roy and Johnny each took a chair to the side of their captain's desk.
"Cap, do you know Captain McDaniel at Station 45?" Roy asked.
"A little, why?"
Johnny repeated the story concerning his conversation with Phil Bennedetto, finishing with the information that Roy had provided him. Leaning back in his chair, Cap folded his arms in front of his chest and listened intently. Roy watched the captain's face, trying to anticipate his response, but with the exception of the occasional frown, Hank's face was impassive. At the story's end, both paramedics looked at each other questioningly when Cap remained silent. Sitting up straight, Hank turned in his chair, placing his elbows on the desk and covering his face with his hands. After a few moments, he looked over at Johnny and Roy.
"DeSoto, Gage," Cap started, "I don't want his conversation to leave this office. Agreed?"
Johnny and Roy both nodded their acknowledgment.
"All right, then. I've heard the same rumours, and I strongly stress that they are rumours. There have been no formal accusations of any questionable acts or any type of misconduct."
"But what's your opinion?" Johnny asked.
"From what I know of Ron McDaniel, I think anything is possible. John, as your captain, I'm not going to suggest what you should do, but as your friend, I agree with Roy. Don't get involved."
"Yeah, I know…"Johnny began but was interrupted by the dispatcher.
"Squad 51. Women trapped, 285 Maple Drive, cross street Palmer. Time out 11:15."
Captain Stanley quickly exited his office to record the instructions while the paramedics took their places in the squad. Taking the paper Hank handed to him, Roy glanced at it quickly and then passed it to Johnny.
The home on Maple Drive was a small one-floor brick house, framed by a manicured lawn. Well-maintained flowerbeds lay on each side of the walkway, planted with obvious precision. Walking up the driveway with equipment in hand, Roy and Johnny were stopped by a woman calling to them from the side of the house.
"Back here, please. Hurry."
"What seems to be the problem ma'am?" Roy asked.
"It's my neighbour. She's stuck."
"This isn't your house?" Johnny inquired.
"No, I live next door. My name is Helen. I had just come out to look for my cat when I heard the yelling. I'll show you the way."
Entering through the backyard gate, Johnny and Roy found a small blonde woman standing in the middle of the lawn. She wore a scowl on her face.
"Hi. What 's the trouble?" Johnny asked.
"The trouble is that I have my foot stuck in a stupid rabbit hole or something."
Roy and Johnny both bent down to examine the situation. "It doesn't look too bad," Roy said. "We should have you out in no time. What's your name?"
"Alice."
Johnny had stood up to get the shovel from the squad. "Did you say Alice?" Nodding, the woman glared at the paramedics. Johnny raised his eyebrows at his partner and grinned.
"Can't you hurry, I have an important date and I don't want to be late, " Alice whined.
"I betcha it's with the Mad Hatter," Johnny said to Roy, under his breath. He then turned his attention to Alice. "I'm going to get a shovel so we can dig around your foot. Once the dirt is loosened you'll be free."
"Well, don't tell me about it. Do it, " Alice demanded.
"Yes ma'am," Johnny replied. He trotted out to the front yard, returning a few moments later with the necessary equipment. Johnny began to dig a wide circle around the woman's leg. As the earth gave way, Roy eased Alice's foot from the hole. He put his arm around Alice's waist for support and guided her to a nearby bench. Bending down to remove her shoe, Roy began to examine Alice's foot.
"What are you doing?" Alice demanded once again.
Roy was taken aback. "I was going to examine your…uh."
"I'm fine. If I need anything I'll call my own doctor. I told you, I'm late."
"That's your decision, but we will need you to sign a waiver for refusing treatment," Roy said.
"Fine, where is it?" Alice ordered.
Roy looked pleadingly at his partner who just shrugged his shoulders. "They must in the squad," Johnny said. "I'll go get one."
Alice glared at Roy. "Are you always this prepared?"
Gage arrived with the form to which Alice scribbled her signature. He and Roy gathered their equipment and left the backyard as quickly as possible.
"What a witch," Johnny commented.
"With the way she kept taking off our heads, I'd say she's more like the Queen of Hearts," Roy quipped.
************************** *************************
Phil Bennedetto, along with his partner Mark Sanchez, brought their squad to a stop in front of a small corner variety store. Grabbing the clipboard beside him on the seat, Phil and his partner entered the shop. Sanchez held the door open for a departing customer as Bennedetto approached the counter.
"Good afternoon sir," he said, addressing the man behind the cash register. "We're here for your store's fire inspection."
The shop's proprietor looked nervously at Bennedetto. "You were just here last month. You said everything is fine. I signed a report," he stammered.
"Yes sir," Phil answered. "But that was last month. A lot of things can happen between now and then."
"Nothing has changed," the owner protested.
Sanchez approached the two men. "Maybe we should check the wiring again," he suggested to his partner.
Phil agreed. "That's a good idea. You never know when you'll find a bad connection, or something so hazardous that a business may have to close down."
The owner was panic-stricken. "No, please, this is my life. I have a family. You can't do that. I haven’t done anything wrong!"
"We're only doing our job," Sanchez explained.
The shop owner's eyes were filled with defeat. "OK. How much will the inspection cost this time?"
"Same as always." Phil answered pleasantly.
The proprietor bent down beneath the counter to unlock a small safe. He took out several bills, closed the door and stood up. Handing six one hundred-dollar bills to the firemen, he silently cursed.
"Well thank you, sir," Phil said politely. "Oh, by the way, did you hear about the bakery across the street? They had to close. Too many fire code violations. What a shame." Bennedetto turned toward Sanchez and smiled. "We better be getting back." They headed in the direction of the door.
"You can't get away with this. I'll call the police," the owner shouted.
"To complain that you failed a fire inspection? Sir, we're performing a public service. Who do you think they would believe?" Mark asked.
"You have a nice day," Phil called behind him.
************************** *************************
"Gage, you've got to give me your hamburger recipe," Chet said sarcastically. "I'm sure I can improve it."
"Chet, has anyone ever mentioned how funny you are? Probably not, with good reason," Johnny shot back.
Roy let out a low whistle. "Here we go again." He quickly tried to change the subject. "So, anyone have plans for their days off?"
"I don't, but I'm sure my wife does," Cap joked.
"Same here," Mike said.
"Oh, the single life," Chet bragged. "Right Marco?"
"You said it, Chet."
"Yeah, though I've gotta clean my own apartment," Johnny said.
"Gage, you don't really think marriage means never having to clean up, do you?" Cap asked.
"Leave him his delusions, Cap," Roy said.
"Actually," Johnny continued, "I got a phone call from Phil Bennedetto. Coincidence, eh? He wants to go for a beer tomorrow night."
Roy and Captain Stanley exchanged knowing looks that did not go unnoticed.
"That's the guy that replaced Roy when he was on vacation, right?" Marco asked.
"Yep, that's him," Johnny confirmed.
"Why, the frown, Roy?" Mike asked.
"Oh, nothing," Roy replied lamely.
Mike turned to Hank. "Cap?"
Sighing heavily, Captain Stanley looked at Johnny and Roy. "I think that we have to tell them."
"Tell us what?" Chet said impatiently.
"Well, if you give us a minute, Kelly, you'll find out." Captain Stanley took a moment to collect his thoughts and began to repeat the story Johnny and Roy had related to him. Once finished, he surveyed the confused faces of Chet, Marco and Mike.
"Why doesn't somebody investigate these suspicions?" Marco inquired.
"On what grounds?" Roy responded.
"Roy, what about that guy, the one that quit the department. Maybe he'd know more," Mike suggested.
"No, Mike, that's a dead end. I wouldn't even know where to find him. To be honest, I'm not even sure this is our fight."
"You've got to be kidding me?" Johnny exclaimed. "Roy, if something illegal or unethical is going on it could affect the whole department, including us."
"Johnny's got a point," Marco agreed. "But I don't see that there's much we can do."
"Once I talk to Phil this weekend, I should have more information," Johnny said.
"So you're going to meet him?" Roy asked.
Johnny smiled. "Sure, why not? Don't worry, Dad. I'll be careful."
************************** *************************
John Gage pulled the Land Rover into his usual parking spot behind the fire station. Walking across the lot he was approached by his partner. "Morning," Johnny greeted.
"I was trying to call you all day yesterday. Where were you?" Roy demanded.
Johnny took exception at his friend's tone. "I went down to the coast. Hey, I'm not one of your kids. I don't have to report."
"I'm sorry, John. I didn't mean for it to sound like an interrogation. This thing with Bennedetto has been really eating at me," Roy explained.
"It's okay, Roy. I appreciate your concern. Come with me to the locker room. I'll tell you about it while I'm changing. Before I start though, you have to tell me why you're so bugged about this."
"OK, it's a deal," Roy agreed. On their way to the station house, he began to share his concerns.
"You know that guy I worked with, my source?"
"Yeah."
"The reason he quit was because of McDaniel. Jack, that's my source, never told me all the details. The last station he worked at was under McDaniel's command. It seems that there was a scam going on, involving McDaniel and some of the other men on his crew. Jack didn't want any part of it. Whatever it was must have been bad because McDaniel threatened to ruin Jack's career if he tried to blow the whistle."
"Did Jack tell any of the brass about this before he left?" Johnny asked.
"No, I think he was afraid, John."
"Why didn't you tell me this before? At least now I know your reason for over-reacting," Johnny said.
Roy and Johnny had reached the locker room. Pushing the door open, Johnny headed for his locker, but stopped when Roy grabbed his arm. Johnny could see the disapproval in his partner's eyes.
"Johnny, you're not listening. This guy is trouble. So is Phil."
Neither man said anything. Johnny glanced down at the hand on his arm, and then looked up at Roy. "I'm not Jack. I know they're bad news. Look, I realize that we don't see eye to eye on this thing, but I'm not willing to let it go. Anyway, there's more to this story that I want to tell you."
Dismayed, Roy released his grip. "OK, John, we'll do it your way."
"There's no reason why you need to be involved. If I can find out anything, I'll give it all over to the police. I'm no hero." Seeing that the expression on Roy's face hadn't changed, Johnny sighed. "Look, I've got to get dressed. We'll talk later."
"Fine," Roy said flatly and walked out into the engine bay for roll call. Johnny soon followed taking a position at the opposite end of the line from his partner.
Captain Stanley handed out the day's assignments and advised of the drills that were due for review. The tension emanating from the two paramedics reduced the impact of any of his words. Dismissing his crew at the meeting's end, Hank returned to his office to complete some long overdue paperwork. He picked up his pen and tapped it several times on the desk. Rising from his chair, Cap walked to the dormitory where Roy and Johnny had been assigned. Lingering in the entranceway for a moment, he was struck by the silence.
"That's it, you two. In my office. Now," he ordered. Wordlessly, the three men left the sleeping quarters.
Upon entering his office, Hank resumed his seat at the desk, motioning for Johnny and Roy to sit down. "John, close the door," he said. Johnny complied, but chose to remain standing. He lowered his eyes to the floor.
"What is going on?" Hank demanded. His face reddened when neither paramedic responded. "Whatever it is, gentlemen, I will not have two of my men behaving like insolent children and disrupting the efficiency of this station. Is that clear?"
"Yes sir," they both answered.
"Good. Now I want an explanation," Hank said.
"It's this thing with Bennedetto," Johnny began, "Roy and I just had a disagreement."
"I'd say it was more than a disagreement," Roy stated.
"What do you want from me, Roy?" Johnny asked exacerbated.
"I want you to listen and stop being so damn pigheaded."
Johnny's eyes narrowed. "This is pointless." He took a step towards the door.
"Sit down, John," Hank ordered.
Grudgingly, Johnny took a seat beside his partner.
"Let's try it again, shall we?" Cap strongly suggested.
Resigned to the idea that he had no choice, Johnny started to speak. "Roy's upset because he once worked with a guy who left the department because of McDaniel. He thinks I'm going to end up in some kind of trouble."
"Is that accurate, Roy?" Cap asked.
"Yes," Roy replied.
"Johnny, Roy may not be wrong here. Maybe you should consider that," Cap said.
"The circumstances here are completely different," Johnny protested. "Jack, Roy's friend, worked for McDaniel. I don't even know the man."
"But you know Phil. That may be just as bad," Roy said.
"Okay, okay. You've made your point," Johnny conceded.
"Good, then we can consider this matter closed," Cap concluded.
"Well, not quite yet," Johnny said. "Something happened that I think you both would find interesting."
Roy gave Cap a weary look. "All right, John, we're listening,"
"I told you that I was meeting Phil for a beer, right?"
Cap nodded his head.
"We ended up going to a place that's in Station 45's district. Everything was fine at the bar. We talked about old times, his wife, the house and other things. Though, every time I tried to bring up the subject of Captain McDaniel, Phil just ignored it. Or his answers were so vague that they didn't really say anything." Johnny paused and looked at Hank. "He didn't ask me about you, Cap. Not that I had anything bad to say," he joked.
"Just go on with the story, " Cap said.
"It was when we left the bar that something peculiar happened. " Johnny stopped and shifted to a more comfortable position. There was a look of excitement in his eyes. "I was driving and I told Phil that I needed to pick up some milk and bread. We stopped at the variety store down the street from the bar. Phil seemed to get a little agitated. But I thought maybe it was just too much beer. Anyway, I went into the store. There was a guy behind the counter. Seemed all right. I grabbed the things I needed and brought them up to the cash. Everything was fine until Phil walked into the store."
"What happened?" Roy prodded.
Reaching the climax of his story, Johnny's pitch became a little higher and his speech quickened. He began to wave his hands as he talked to add emphasis. "This part is incredible. The guy behind the counter went nuts! He started yelling at both of us to get out of the store. Then he said that he didn't have anymore money."
Cap sat forward in his chair. "Any idea what that meant?"
"I'm not sure," Johnny answered. "Phil definitely knew what it meant. I could tell by the look on his face. He may have had one beer too many, but it was pretty clear that he was angry. I left the groceries on the counter and we both left the store."
"Did Phil say anything?" Roy questioned.
"I tried to ask him about it, but all he said was that I should forget it ever happened. After that, I dropped him at his house then went home. I haven't heard from him since."
"Whew, that's quite a story, John," Cap said.
"Phil's obviously hiding something," Roy commented.
"I'll bet that shopkeeper knows what it is," Johnny added. "I was thinking of running this by Lieutenant Crockett."
"That may be premature. We still can't prove that there's anything illegal happening," Cap stated.
"There's something else I need to tell you," Johnny said.
"What's that?" Roy asked.
"There are a lot of vacant business buildings in that area, so I thought I'd check the records. Three of those businesses have closed in 45's district in the past year due to fire code violations." Johnny eased back in his chair a little farther. "So what do you think now?"
Roy fidgeted in his seat. Seeing his friend's enthusiasm worried him further. "I haven't changed my mind. In fact, your story has convinced me that you should put end to this thing."
Looking dejectedly at his partner, Johnny sighed. "Fair enough, I'm not going to argue with you anymore." Turning towards Hank he asked, "What about you, Cap?"
"Talk to Lieutenant Crockett and see what his opinion is about Bennedetto. But I think you should avoid Phil."
Johnny clapped his hands together. "Thanks, Cap. I was going to do that anyway."
************************** *************************
Roy pulled the squad into a parking spot outside Rampart Emergency. The M.V.A. he and Johnny had responded to had been devastating. The paramedics had laboured for an hour attempting to free the young man from the wreckage. Two dead and one paralyzed, perhaps permanently. Johnny had accompanied the victim in the ambulance. Leaning his head against the steering wheel, Roy sat a few minutes longer in the driver's seat. Mercifully, he thought, the victim had not regained consciousness at the site. His stomach churned, knowing that when the man awoke he would learn that his wife was dead. Squeezing his eyes closed, Roy tried to shut out the vision of the second vehicle engulfed in flames. There had been no chance for a rescue attempt to be made to save the occupant. The intense heat of the fire had made it impossible. He sat a moment longer and then slowly stepped out of the squad. Approaching the ER entrance, Roy passed through the automatic doors as they swung open. Shuffling down the hall, he reached the nurse's station.
"Hi," Nurse Dixie McCall said softly.
"Hi," Roy answered. "Johnny come out yet?"
"No."
Seemingly on cue, the door to Treatment Two opened. Solemnly, walking up to his partner, Johnny shook his head.
"I'm sorry," Dixie said. Neither man responded.
Johnny finally spoke." Did you get the supplies, Roy?"
"Uh, no," he replied and handed the list to Nurse McCall. "Thanks, Dix."
"No problem, guys," she assured and turned to retrieve the necessary items. Silently, Johnny and Roy waited at the counter.
As Dixie was placing the last bag of IV solution in the box, Phil Bennedetto and Mark Sanchez stepped into the hallway from Treatment Three.
"Hey, Johnny," Phil called.
"Oh hi, Phil," Johnny answered flatly.
Phil looked questioningly at Nurse McCall who explained the circumstances.
"Sorry, that's gotta be hard," Mark commented.
Bennedetto echoed his partner's sentiment. He realized that neither Roy nor Johnny were interested in conversation, but this chance meeting presented an opportunity. "So, you must be DeSoto, right?"
Roy ignored the hand offered him. "Yes, that's right," he answered.
"Did Johnny tell you that we know each other from the old days?" Phil asked.
"Yes."
Phil was unsure as to whether Roy's unresponsiveness was due to the recent rescue or something Johnny may have said. He did know, however, that he would be hard pressed to find out anything from him. Phil turned his attention back to Johnny.
"So, John, that was quite a party the other night. I was so wasted that my memory is still a bit fuzzy. How much do you remember?"
The physical strain of the rescue, added to the emotional stress of losing his patient, had an adverse effect on Johnny's better judgment. His intention to avoid any confrontation with Bennedetto was forgotten. Anger flashed in his eyes as he responded to the veiled threat. "My memory is just fine. I remember every detail."
Phil's face drained of colour. His smile left him. Opening his mouth to speak, he closed it again when Roy took a step towards him. Bennedetto gestured to Sanchez that it was time to leave. "Well John, Roy, I'm sure we'll be seeing you around." He and his partner headed down the hallway.
Roy and Johnny watched the two departing paramedics. DeSoto turned back to the counter to pick up the box of supplies.
"Not so fast," Dixie said. "What was that all about?"
"Oh, nothing," Johnny said.
"In other words, you don't want to tell me."
"Another time, Dix," Roy said. "C'mon, Johnny, we better get back."
************************** *************************
"So, did you get to talk to him?" Roy asked.
"No, the officer that answered the phone said that Lieutenant Crockett would be off for the next couple of days," Johnny replied. "It'll be all right until then."
"I know, John, but after that conversation in the hospital, it just makes you wonder. Phil didn't look too happy when he left."
"No, you're right, he didn't," Johnny agreed, then began to laugh.
Roy stared at his partner. "What's so funny?"
"Geez, Roy. Doesn't this all seem a little bizarre to you? There's probably nothing going on and we both just have over active imaginations."
"Do you really believe that?"
"No," Johnny admitted "I guess that's just wishful thinking on my part. My gut feeling is that there is something wrong. Roy, I understand how you feel and that you've never wanted to be involved with this. So, I've decided that I would rather go see Crockett alone."
"I think that I'm already involved, John. Anyway, we're partners. We always back each other up, right?"
"But, if this comes down to a formal inquest, it's going to get rough. I'd rather you weren't dragged into it," Johnny continued.
"We'll worry about that when the time comes."
Entering the station's kitchen where the two paramedics sat, Chet Kelly headed for the refrigerator. He opened the door and pulled out a carton of milk. "Worry about what?" Chet asked.
"Don't you know that you shouldn't listen to other people's conversations," Johnny scolded.
"Well, excuse me. You don't have to bite my head off," Chet retorted.
"I'm sorry, Chet. It's just been a bad day," Johnny apologized.
"This wouldn't have anything to do with Bennedetto, would it?" Chet asked.
"Yeah. Do you know something?" Johnny questioned.
"I don't directly, but Marco does. He has a friend that knows Phil's partner, Sanchez."
"Is his friend in the department too?" Roy asked.
"No, it's some Spanish community thing," Chet answered. He stuck his head outside the dayroom and called for Lopez. Marco soon entered the kitchen. "Hey Marco, tell John and Roy what you told me about Sanchez."
"Sure," Marco said. "It seems that this guy Sanchez was bragging to my friend about how good things were for him in the department. He said that working for McDaniel was the best thing that could have happened to him."
"Did he say what he meant?" Roy asked.
"Sanchez said that there were a lot more perks there than any other station he'd been at before. The problem is, he didn't say what kind. Though, Sanchez did just buy a new model Mustang Convertible. It's supposed to be pretty nice, too."
"Marco, did he say anything specific about McDaniel or Bennedetto?" Johnny queried.
"No, that was about it."
"Thanks, Marco," Johnny said, discouraged.
"Hope it helps," he replied. "Hey Chet, we still have hose to hang and I'm not doing it by myself again."
"But Marco, pal, that old back injury keeps flaring up, I can hardly move," Chet whined.
"Oh, I guess that means you'll be canceling your date tonight," Marco teased.
"Chet, you can't cancel. It's only once a year," Johnny snorted.
Chet gave Johnny a pained look. "Shut up, Gage. Marco and I have work to do."
************************** *************************
"Station 51, Station 45, Truck 8. Chemical fire, 25 Industrial Drive. Time Out 19:35."
"Station 51, 10-4. KMG- 365," Cap responded into the mike.
Reading the address a second time, Johnny glanced at his partner and frowned. "Dispatch did say Station 45, right?"
"Yeah. Twice in one day. Maybe we won't have to work with Bennedetto and Sanchez too much," Roy replied.
Engine 51 came to a stop at the end of Industrial Drive where a fully involved building stretched the length of a city block. Roy pulled the squad in behind the fire truck. The police had arrived earlier at the scene and had begun evacuating the surrounding areas. The members of Station 45 and Truck 8 soon joined the crew from 51.
Captain Stanley, who had been speaking with the building's superintendent, began instructing the firefighters.
"Marco, I want you and Chet to take a two and half and cover the south side of the building. Ron, I need your men on the north," Hank said, addressing Captain McDaniel. "Truck 8 will take the roof."
Cap turned his attention to the four paramedics. "This structure has four floors and a basement. The superintendent said that he couldn't account for one of the security guards. Be aware that this building is used to manufacture industrial cleaning solvents and stores large amounts of trichloroethane. John, I want you and Roy to cover the top three floors. Ron, can your men cover the first floor and basement?"
"You got it," McDaniel answered.
Gage and DeSoto adjusted their air masks and entered the building followed by Bennedetto and Sanchez. Pausing in the doorway, the two teams quickly surveyed the area before heading for their assigned areas. Roy and Johnny found the stairwell and proceeded to the top level.
The fourth floor appeared to have served as a storage area. Rows of boxes containing obsolete files filled the room. Roy and Johnny thoroughly searched the area without success.
"Ready to head down?" Roy yelled.
Johnny nodded.
The men arrived on the third floor to find offices lining both sides of the corridor. Johnny motioned to Roy that he would move down one level. "It will save a lot of time."
"Yeah. OK," Roy answered.
Johnny left Roy and started down the next flight of stairs. Pulling the handi-talkie from his coat pocket, Roy lifted his air mask slightly.
"Engine 51, HT 51. Do you read?"
"Go ahead, Roy," Cap answered.
"We've checked the fourth floor. I'm on the third, Johnny's on the second. No luck so far. Anything from 45?"
"Nothing yet,"Cap replied.
"10-4."
Roy shoved the unit back into his pocket and resumed his search. He came to the next office and placed his hand against the door. Entering the room, he saw movement in the corner. Nearing the area, Roy found a man sitting curled up on the floor. His head was buried in his lap. The security guard was coughing slightly. Pulling off his air mask, Roy placed it over the victim's mouth, who then gratefully took several deep breaths. Roy replaced his mask and picked up the victim, balancing him on his shoulder. DeSoto headed back to the hallway and walked in the direction of the stairwell. I hate these new climate controlled buildings. What I wouldn't give for a window, " he thought.
The smoke thickened as he descended to the second floor. Roy stopped briefly, trying to locate his partner. Straining to see any sign of Johnny, he quickly looked down the hallway, but saw nothing. With a resigned shrug, Roy walked down the last two sets of stairs and exited the building. Meeting his captain at the door, Stanley guided him to the area where the paramedic's equipment had been set up. DeSoto looked back at the building and then at Cap. "I couldn't find Johnny."
************************** *************************
Completing the search of one side of the floor, John Gage started to check the offices across the hallway. Reaching for the first door, he noticed a figure standing at the other end of the corridor. Through the smoke, he could see the person wore a turnout coat and air tank. Stopping his search, Johnny quickly walked in the direction of the man he thought to be Roy. As he approached him, the figure dropped to one knee. Johnny quickened his pace. He bent down. "Roy?" The man turned his face to look at Gage.
"No, it's Phil."
Johnny's heart skipped a beat. "Phil, why are you here?"
"Roy has found the security guard. I came to find you, "Phil said.
Johnny grabbed Phil by the shoulders and eased him into a standing position. "Do you think you can walk?"
"Yeah, I think so. Must be the smoke," Phil replied.
"OK. Lean on me. I'll guide you down," Johnny said.
Phil nodded.
Johnny pushed open the door to the stairwell, which was rapidly filling with smoke. He stepped out onto the landing. "You ready?"
Phil raised his head and stood up straight. His fist came up, catching Johnny with a right hook under the chin. Gage flew backward against the wall, his head impacting with a hard crack, his helmet bouncing down the steps. Stunned, Johnny tried to focus on his attacker. A hard jab to the midsection caused him to crumple to the floor. Before he could gain his bearings, Bennedetto shoved Gage, sending him tumbling down the stairs. Phil rushed down after the fallen paramedic.
Johnny lay unconscious on the landing, blood streaming from his nose and ears. Phil placed two fingers against Gage's neck and found a weak and irregular pulse. Moving his hand to Johnny's air mask, he pushed it away from his nose and mouth. Satisfied, Bennedetto stood up and turned to leave. "Sorry, old buddy. I can't take any chances."
Roy was in the midst of starting an IV when he heard commotion coming from the front of the building. He looked up to see Sanchez walking in his direction. Picking up the biophone, Roy reported to Rampart.
"IV established. We are administering oxygen. Vitals are stable."
"10-4, 51. Transport when ready."
"10-4." Roy replaced the biophone back in the cradle and snapped the case closed.
"How is he?" Sanchez asked.
"He'll be all right. Smoke inhalation, though the chemical fumes didn't seem to reach him. I'd say he's a lucky man," Roy answered. "Mark, did you see Johnny?"
"No, sorry," he answered mechanically. Noticing the concern on Roy's face, he added, "I've got a partner in there, too."
"Yeah, sorry."
The attendants gently lifted the victim onto the gurney and loaded him into the ambulance as Roy finished packing up the equipment. He turned to Hank. "Cap, I…"
"He'll be out soon," Cap assured him.
Roy looked back at the building once more. The fire had been brought under control. Why hasn't he come out? he thought. Trotting past him, Sanchez ran up to greet his partner.
"Good to see you, man," Mark said.
"Where's Johnny?" Roy demanded angrily.
"Phil looked genuinely perplexed. "Is he still in there? I assumed he came out with you," he said with mock worry and made a false start to return to the building.
"DeSoto, get back to your patient," Cap ordered. "Bennedetto, stay here. Kelly, Lopez, get in there and find Gage."
"You got it, Cap," they responded.
Returning to the ambulance, Roy reluctantly climbed in the back. "We'll find him, Roy. Don't worry," Cap said reassuringly.
Pointing to Bennedetto, Captain Ron McDaniel gestured for Phil to come over to where he was standing. He preferred their discussion not be in Stanley's hearing. "What was that about?" McDaniel asked as Bennedetto reached his side.
"Beats me, Cap. I guess DeSoto is still riled about the hospital," Phil answered.
McDaniel frowned. "It better not be anything else."
Turning to leave, Phil stopped when his captain called his name.
"Bennedetto, you are clean on this, correct?"
"Sure, Cap. I didn't see Gage, I swear. Last I knew, he was with DeSoto."
"For your sake, I hope that's the truth. You're becoming a liability that I can't afford to have around. Go help 51 with the search."
Phil jogged over to Captain Stanley. “You want me in there?"
"No," Hank replied. "Set up your equipment. They've found Johnny. Sanchez has already gone in with a backboard and a collar."
"Sorry, Cap."
"Yes," Hank said. "I'm sure you are."
Marco and Chet laid Johnny gently on the ground where Bennedetto had set the equipment. Phil had made preliminary contact with the hospital, identifying Johnny to them. Dr. Joe Early and Dixie McCall waited patiently at Rampart General for further report.
"Rampart, this Squad 45."
"Go ahead, 45," Joe answered.
"Rampart, victim has been extricated. Patient has sustained a head injury, possibly due to a fall. He is unconscious. Patient is bleeding from his ears and nose. We have placed him on a backboard and applied a cervical collar. Standby for vitals." Phil put the biophone receiver down and wrapped the BP cuff around Johnny's arm while Sanchez adjusted the flow on the oxygen.
"Rampart, vitals are: BP 100/60, Respiration 12, Pulse 60 and weak. Pupils are fixed and patient is cyanotic. We also advise that patient has been exposed to trichloroethane."
"45, start an IV, 1000ml Ringer's Lactate, TKO. Maintain oxygen. Send me a strip. How long was he exposed to the gas?"
"We're not sure, Rampart. We approximate twenty to thirty minutes," Phil replied. "We're sending a strip now. This will be lead two." Bennedetto reached over to the drug box and pulled out the prescribed medication as his partner started the transmission on the heart monitor. He smiled to himself at the irony of the situation.
Dr. Early released the com. button and pulled the strip from the register.
"45, I'm reading sinus bradycardia. Administer 0.5-mg atropine.
"10-4, Rampart."
Joe took the chart from Nurse McCall. "Dix, set up treatment three and advise neurology. See if Dr. Peters is available for consultation. Also, type and crossmatch six units."
"Rampart, this is squad 45. We have established the IV. Ambulance is at scene."
"10-4, 45. Transport immediately and advise of any changes."
"Affirmative, Rampart. ETA is 10 minutes," Phil acknowledged.
Sanchez gathered the equipment as the ambulance attendants readied Johnny for transport.
"I'll ride in with him," Sanchez said.
Phil just shrugged. "Sure, see you at the hospital."
Seating himself on the bench beside Johnny, Sanchez stared quizzically at his partner. Bennedetto only smiled as he closed the door.
************************** *************************
Sitting momentarily, Joe Early paused to collect his thoughts. His respite soon ended as Dr. Kelly Bracket and Roy DeSoto neared the desk.
"Anything on Johnny?" Roy asked shakily.
"They're bringing him in now," Joe answered.
"And?" Roy prodded.
"He has a head injury, Roy," Joe answered. Turning to Kel, "I've already contacted Dr. Peters in neurology," he added.
"I see," Kel said. "Roy, Peters is excellent in his field. Johnny will be in very capable hands. Try not to worry."
Roy shook his head. "Not worry? Just how am I supposed to do that?" Taking several steps away from the doctors, he leaned against the wall and stared into space.
Dr. Early watched Roy for a moment then sighed. "How's the security guard?" he asked Kel.
"He'll be fine. We're keeping him overnight to see if there are any residual effects from the toxin, but most of his trouble was due to smoke inhalation."
They ended their conversation as Sanchez and his patient entered the hallway. "Roy!" Joe called.
"Treatment three," he instructed Mark.
The ambulance attendants wheeled Johnny into the examination room, followed by Sanchez and Dr. Early. Roy hesitated before entering the room. Taking a deep breath to calm himself, Roy pushed open the door. Catching Sanchez's eye, he motioned for him to leave.
"Doc, do you need me?" Mark asked.
"No, Mark, thanks. Dixie, call x-ray again and see what the hold up is. I want a full skull series and a C-Spine. I also want a CBC and a urinalysis. Get me a new set of vitals." Opening Johnny's left eye, Dr. Early flashed in his penlight. He repeated the same procedure with the right. Joe then moved his attention to his patient's motor reflexes and found that there was minimal response to pain stimuli. "Johnny, can you hear me?" he called with no effect.
"Roy, I want you to try. Your voice may be more familiar."
Leaning over the table, Roy sombrely regarded his partner. "Hey, John. It's Roy. Please open your eyes." Becoming anxious at the lack of response, Roy tried once more. His voice was pleading. “Hey, c'mon, John, We need you to open your eyes." Panic-stricken at the failed second attempt, Roy looked to Dr. Early. He wordlessly stepped back from the table.
“OK, Roy, thanks for trying," Joe said. "Dix, what have you got?
"BP is 110/70. Respiration 10. Pulse 65 and weak."
Joe frowned. "I'm going to insert the endotrachael tube. Administer 1mg. Lidocaine."
The treatment room door opened. Dr. Will Peters walked briskly to the examination table. "How's it look?" he asked Joe.
"The patient is unresponsive with respiratory depression. X-ray's on their way, but I already suspect that there's a build up of intracranial pressure."
"How did he score on the Glasgow Scale?" Peters questioned.
Joe frowned once more. "A six. There was minimal motor response to pain stimuli and he had made the occasional moan when initially brought in. He's quiet now. There's been no pupillary response. One other thing, the patient's has been exposed to trichloroethane for an undetermined amount of time, which probably has aggravated the drop in blood pressure and respiratory distress."
Dr. Peters nodded. "I've got an operating theatre standing by. Send him up as soon as x-ray's done."
"Thanks, Will," Joe said as Peters left the room.
Roy DeSoto remained silent, allowing his face to express the emotional turmoil. He finally stepped forward to ask the question to which he already knew the answer. "It's bad, isn't it?
"Roy," Joe started, "Why don't you go with Dixie to the doctor's lounge? I'll be there in a minute to explain."
Dixie guided Roy out of the treatment room. Chet Kelly, who had brought the squad to the hospital, grabbed his friend's arm. "He's going to be OK, right?"
"I'm not sure, Chet," Roy answered slowly. "Why don't you come with us to the lounge? Dr. Early will be in to explain Johnny's condition."
Looking farther down the corridor, Roy caught sight of Phil Bennedetto. He began to walk in that direction when Chet placed a hand on Roy's chest. "Don't, not now. He's not worth it."
Roy reconsidered. "Yeah, you're right." Glaring at Bennedetto, he turned to leave.
"Hey, Roy. How's Johnny?" Phil called.
Sanchez looked disapprovingly at him. "C'mon man, leave it alone."
"What do you mean? I'm genuinely interested."
Chet glanced at Roy. "Keep going. I'll talk to him."
DeSoto remained unmoved as Bennedetto approached.
"Is he going to be all right?" Phil asked.
"We don't know," Chet answered.
"That's too bad. Johnny was always a good guy. These things just happen sometimes."
Enraged at hearing his partner spoken of in the past tense, Roy clenched his fists. Seeing his intention, Dixie intervened.
"Roy, Chet, I think we better go," she said. She looked at the two paramedics. "Why don't you give us a call later when we have more news."
************************** *************************
Roy, Chet and Dixie sat quietly in the doctor's lounge, watching the door. Joe Early soon entered the room and filled the empty seat at the table. Lowering his eyes and sighing heavily, he addressed himself to the entire group, but directed his words mainly to Roy.
"The prognosis isn't good. The x-rays have confirmed a subdural hematoma. Johnny's in surgery now."
Roy's body stiffened and his breath caught in his throat. He forced out his words. "What are his chances?"
"Dr. Peters is an excellent neurosurgeon. Johnny's getting the best," Joe responded.
"But you can't tell me with any certainty that Johnny will survive the operation," Roy said. He rose from his chair and stood at the counter, his back to the table. "Is that everything?"
"Roy, look at me," Joe said. "There is more that I need to explain."
Trying to prepare himself for what was to come, Roy turned to face Dr. Early.
"There's a test that was introduced this year called the Glasgow Coma Scale. It's used to evaluate the level of responsiveness based on certain criteria."
"Is that what you were discussing with Dr. Peters? You said Johnny was a six. What does that mean?" Roy asked. "I'm guessing that it's not good."
"I'm afraid you're right," Joe answered. "It's very low."
"Johnny's in a coma," Roy said despairingly. Walking back to the table, he dropped back into his seat.
"I'm so sorry," Dixie comforted. "I understand how you must feel."
Roy pushed back his chair. "How can you possibly understand how I feel?" His voice was low and flat. "It's not your best friend who may be dying." Roy got up once more and began to pace.
"He didn't mean it," Chet said to Dixie. "It's fear talking."
"I know," Dixie replied. "Thanks." She patted Chet's hand.
"Roy, there's a possibility that the coma is due to the pressure being put on the brain. The coma may end when that pressure is eliminated," Joe said.
"There's hope then?" Roy asked. Seeing Dr. Early nod his head, Roy smiled for the first time that day. "Dix, I'm sorry. I shouldn't have taken it out on you."
"I know. It's OK," she reassured him. Dixie looked over at Joe. "Why don't we give these guys some time?" She turned to Chet. "I'll be back as soon as I hear something."
"Thanks Miss McCall," Chet said. He watched the door swing shut behind Joe and Dixie. "Roy, I was thinking that I should call the guys. Are you going to be OK?"
"Yeah," Roy grunted. "I’m fine. Just great."
************************** *************************
"Station 51, Captain Stanley speaking."
"Hi, Cap. It’s Chet."
"How's Johnny?" Cap asked.
"The doctors are operating on him now. They're trying to relieve the pressure on his brain. Dr. Early said that Johnny was in a coma. He didn't sound too optimistic."
Cap moved the receiver from his mouth. "Oh dear God."
"What's he saying, Cap?" Mike and Marco asked.
Hank held up his hand, gesturing for them to wait until he had finished his conversation. He raised the phone back to his mouth. "Kelly, how's Roy taking the news?"
"He's pretty broken up."
"Tell Roy that he's relieved of duty for the rest of the shift. I've already called in replacements for both him and Johnny. They should be here soon so I need the squad back a.s.a.p."
"I'll let him know," Chet said. "Cap, we had a run in with Bennedetto at the hospital. Roy seems to blame him for Johnny's injuries. You don't think that Phil would do anything, do you?"
"I wish I knew."
Chet let out a low whistle. "I better get back to check on Roy. I should be at the station in about fifteen minutes." Chet placed the receiver in the cradle and headed down the hallway. Entering the lounge, he found Roy seated on the couch, his head buried in his hands.
"Roy?" Chet called softly, and repeated his conversation with Captain Stanley.
"Dixie was in here. She just left. Johnny's still in surgery. There's no news," Roy reported sorrowfully. He rose from the chesterfield and went to the door. "I might as well come with you to the station. I need to have a quick shower and change my clothes. I shouldn't be away for long."
"Why don't you go home and get some rest?" Chet suggested.
"No. I'm not leaving him. I need to know that Johnny's okay. I'll call Joanne and explain what happened. She'll understand."
************************** *************************
The halls of the ICU unit were empty with the exception of one nurse. Her shoes squeaked against the recently polished floors. Giving Roy a cursory glance, she returned to her station and began pulling charts.
"Excuse me," Roy said.
"Can I help you?" asked Nurse Stevens.
"I'm looking for John Gage's room."
Looking down at the charts on her desk, Nurse Stevens picked up the one bearing Johnny's name. "Mr. Gage has just recently been brought here from recovery. I'm afraid that visiting hours ended two hours ago. And they are restricted. I'm sorry." Dismissing Roy, she returned to her work.
"Please," Roy begged. "It's important that I see him. I won't stay long."
Sighing, Stevens crossed her arms in front of her chest. "In case I haven't made myself clear…"
"Is there a problem?" Dr. Peters questioned as he approached the nurse's station.
Triumphantly, Nurse Steven's told him about her difficulty with Roy.
"It's all right, Roy, though just a few minutes. The effects of the anesthesia won't have completely worn off yet, but you can try and talk to him. He's in 407," Dr. Peters said.
"Thanks," Roy answered gratefully. Heading towards Johnny's room, Roy glanced back at Nurse Stevens. "Oh, and thank you, too, for all your help."
Peering through the glass window, Roy watched Johnny. His eyes moved to the equipment on each side of the bed, and the tubing that snaked from his partner's arms. Hesitantly, Roy entered the room.
"Hey John," Roy said softly, as if afraid to wake him. "It's funny, I was so anxious to get in here, and now I don't know what to say." Roy paused. The noises of the monitors and ventilator pounded in his ears. The stress of the past hours overwhelmed him. He stepped closer to the bed.
"Why, why wouldn't you listen to me? Why couldn't you just stay out of it? Is getting Bennedetto worth almost dying? I know he's got something to do with this. This was no accident." Roy reached out and placed his hand on his friend's arm. Grief lined his face. "I'm sorry Johnny," he choked. "You just get better, OK? I need my partner back." Wiping away a stray tear, he stepped into the hallway, shuffling slowing towards the elevator.
"Good night, " Nurse Stevens called out. An apology could be heard in her voice.
************************** *************************
"Mr. DeSoto, the Lieutenant will see you now. Third office on the left."
Picking up his jacket, Roy thanked the officer. Although the door to Crockett's office was open, DeSoto rapped once on the frame to announce his arrival.
"Come in, Roy. Please take a seat."
Roy moved to the chair on his left and balanced on its edge. The Lieutenant sat patiently waiting for his visitor to speak. Trying to put Roy more at ease, Crockett decided to take the lead.
"So, I don't imagine this is a social call. Is there a crime you wanted to report?"
"Well, Lieutenant, I think there is, but I don't have any proof," Roy said.
Crockett leaned back in his chair, tipping it slightly. "Why don't you start at the beginning?"
"I don't know if you remember my partner, John Gage," Roy began.
"Ah, yes, how is he?"
"Johnny was seriously injured in a fire and is in the ICU ward at Rampart General. He wanted to come and speak with you, but was hurt before he got a chance."
"I'm sorry to hear that. My best wishes for a speedy recovery," Crockett said. "So, this "crime", it involves both of you?"
"The whole thing started when Johnny teamed up with a guy he worked with a couple of years back. I was on vacation at the time." Feeling as if a weight had been lifted from his shoulders, Roy recounted the events which had transpired over the last two weeks. At the story's end, he looked expectantly at the lieutenant.
Rolling his chair closer to his desk, Crockett rested his arms on the blotter. "Roy, it’s a very interesting story, however, I can't say that it appears any crime has been committed. I agree, this man, Bennedetto sounds like a suspicious character. But it just may be a case of coincidence. You said yourself that you have no proof. Have you spoken to any of the senior officers at the fire department?"
"Just our station's captain. It's a delicate situation to accuse another captain and his team of wrongdoing. Before we took that step, Johnny and I wanted to get your opinion."
"Well, I'm sorry, Roy, but there doesn't seem to be enough reason to take any action. Since Johnny was involved on most of these occasions, I would really need to hear from him," Crockett said.
"I don't understand. Can't you investigate any of this? What about the storeowner? He must know something. Or, I can try to find Jack," Roy suggested.
"Roy, do you know which store Johnny and Bennedetto went to that night? Does your friend Jack know Bennedetto? Even if he was willing to talk about it, all McDaniel would do is deny any involvement. What you've told me thus far is hearsay. Charging someone with crimes ranging from extortion to attempted murder is going to need a lot more concrete evidence. I wish there was something that I could do to help you. The police just can't go acting on people's hunches."
Roy was incredulous. "So, Bennedetto just gets away with it. This isn't fair. What about Johnny?"
"No Roy, it's not about being fair. It's about the law."
Rising to his feet, Roy reached out to shake Crockett's hand. "Thank you for your time, Lieutenant. I guess there's nothing more to say." He pulled the door closed behind him.
************************** *************************
"Cap, do you have a minute?"
"Sure, Sanchez. Come in and close the door," McDaniel said. "What's on your mind?"
"It's about Bennedetto and this whole thing with Station 51. I don't know. Something's not right here."
"Go on."
"I've got nothing against putting some extra cash in my pocket, but I'll be honest, I'm getting worried. Phil's been acting strange and getting careless. He told me about what happened at the variety store. Phil could have blown it for all of us. Whenever he's around Gage or DeSoto, it's like a game to him. We saw Roy at the hospital after they took Johnny up to surgery. Phil was getting some weird kick out of baiting DeSoto."
"Where's Bennedetto now?" McDaniel asked.
"He's watching the football game. Phil thinks I went to take a shower."
"Keep an eye on him, Mark. I want to know everything he does or says, especially about Gage. Do you think he has anything to do with the accident?"
"Phil says he's clean, Cap," Sanchez answered.
McDaniel grunted. "I didn't get this far believing in coincidences. Don't worry about Bennedetto. Though, I suggest you both lay low for a while."
************************** *************************
Sitting in the hospital cafeteria, Roy looked bleakly at the undrinkable cup of coffee before him. Checking his wristwatch against the wall clock, he waited impatiently for visiting hours to begin. Bolting from his chair as the hour hand reached one o'clock, Roy walked briskly to the elevators.
Entering Johnny's room, he took his usual seat to the side of the bed. Today, someone had left several magazines for him. It had been four days since the accident and the nurses had obviously recognized Roy's routine. He made a mental note to thank them.
"Hey pal," Roy said addressing Johnny, "I've got some news to tell you." He had learned to stop waiting for a reply. "I went to go see Crockett yesterday. It didn't do any good, though. He needs to talk to you before the police can do anything. So, I really need you to wake up, OK?" Intently focusing on his partner, Roy was unaware that someone had entered the room.
"Hello, Roy," Dr. Peters said. He apologized when he saw the startled expression on the man's face. Picking up the chart to review Johnny's condition, Peters then stepped up to his patient and made a brief examination. "His neurological and vital signs are strengthening and there's no indication of any complications from pneumonia. We have had to start him on nasogastric feedings."
"So, he's getting better?" Roy asked.
"He's responding. Your friend is definitely a fighter." Dr. Peters gave Roy a reassuring smile and left to continue his rounds.
Grinning to himself, Roy sat down and picked up one of the magazines. Carelessly flipping the pages, he watched Johnny. Finally settling back in his chair, Roy relaxed.
An hour had passed when Roy turned his head at the familiar squeak of Nurse Steven's shoes. "Hi," she said quietly to Roy. "I thought maybe you were asleep."
"No, just thinking. Do you mind if I ask your name?" Roy inquired.
"Karen."
'Hi, Karen," he said and smiled. Roy watched her review Johnny's chart. "Dr. Peters was in here not too long ago. He said that Johnny's doing pretty good."
"Yes, I know." She walked over to the IV and inserted a needle into the catheter.
"What was that?" Roy asked concerned.
"It's diazepam. It will help control the convulsions. Don't worry, coma patients can become agitated. This helps them to relax and give the body a chance to heal." Karen made some notes on Johnny's chart. "I hate to do this, but visiting time is almost over."
" Okay, I just want to say goodbye." Nurse Stevens nodded and left.
Listening for the footsteps to fade, Roy leaned closer to Johnny. "Hey, pal, I won't be able to come tomorrow. I've got to go back to work tonight. Actually, Joanne will probably be happy to get me out of the house. She says all I do is brood. The kids think I'm becoming a grouch." He laughed to himself. "Anyway, I'll try to come up to see you in between runs. Did I tell you that they’re pairing me with a new kid that just started a month ago? He's supposed to be another Brice. You never know, though, this may work out all right." Roy smiled weakly. His face became melancholy. "I miss you, Johnny. Please come back."
************************** *************************
Completing the day's reports, Ron McDaniel sat intently at his desk. He was interrupted by a knock at the door. "Come in."
Phil Bennedetto strutted into the room and took a seat to his Captain's left. "You said you wanted to see me before I went home?"
McDaniel said nothing. He rose and closed the office door. Before resuming his seat, McDaniel slid his hand into his pocket and produced a key. Unlocking his top drawer, he pulled out a large brown envelope and threw it on the desk next to Bennedetto. "That's for you." McDaniel shut the drawer and sat down.
Bennedetto looked expectantly at the package. "What's this?"
"There's ten thousand dollars in that envelope. Take it and disappear," McDaniel said sternly.
Phil laughed. "Are you paying me off? Is this a joke?"
"You've become a problem, Phil. Our business arrangements are over."
"What? Is this about Gage? I told you that I had nothing to do with it. You can't do this. I'll just transfer to another station. If I go down so do you."
McDaniel remained unchanged. "Your application for a transfer has to go by me first. It could take weeks. This can be a very dangerous job. It's unfortunate how accidents happen."
Bennedetto paled. Nervously he reached for the envelope. Turning towards the door, he swung it open, and pushed by Sanchez who had been playing the role of centurion. Mark watched his partner dart towards the parking lot. He entered the office.
"It's over," McDaniel said. "I'm afraid your partner has decided to quit."
************************** *************************
Driving aimlessly, Bennedetto considered his options, concluding that he had none. McDaniel had as much as assured that. Going on a few miles more, Phil decided on a destination. He pulled his car into a visitor's parking spot at Rampart General Hospital. Bennedetto was sure where to find Gage as he had been calling routinely for updates on Johnny's condition.
Phil exited the elevator on the ICU floor and followed the wall directions. He silently headed down the hall, relieved to find the nurse's station empty. Bennedetto entered Johnny's room, and stood near the bed. He thought about how easy it would be to just disconnect the IV or turn off one of the machines.
"Well, John. Looks like you won. I didn't want to leave without saying good-bye. It's kind of ironic. I tried to end your life and I'm the one who's getting screwed. I'm the one who has to start again. Damn it, couldn't you just mind your own bloody business?" He cursed under his breath. "I'm going to go now. You better hope that our paths never cross again." Phil turned to leave and walked right into Nurse Stevens.
"Who are you, and what exactly are you doing?" she demanded.
"I'm a real old friend. I've been meaning to come and see John, but this has been my first chance. I gotta go," he said hurriedly and quickly left.
Karen Stevens set to the task of checking the equipment and ensuring that Johnny's condition had not changed. She walked back to her desk, an expression of consternation on her face. Looking down the hallway she saw Roy DeSoto headed in her direction.
"Karen, is Johnny all right?" he asked anxiously.
"Yes, he's fine. He had a visitor a few minutes ago. The guy just unnerved me."
"What did he look like?"
Roy frowned as Karen began to describe Phil Bennedetto.
************************** *************************
Entering the dayroom, Roy and his temporary partner, Patrick Anderson greeted the other members of 51.
"Your dinner is in the oven. Marco made chili," Chet said.
Roy declined. "I'm not hungry," he said glumly. "Bennedetto was at the hospital to see Johnny. The nurse told me that she caught him in the room."
"Is John OK?" Cap asked.
"Yeah. But the fact that Bennedetto is free as a bird just gets to me."
"Roy," Mike began, "we've got something to tell you."
Roy looked at him quizzically.
"Bennedetto quit the fire department, today. It seems he finished his shift and then just handed in his resignation."
"You're sure about this?" Roy questioned.
"Yep. My friend just called and told me. So, maybe this will all be over soon."
"I hope so, Mike. I really would like to believe that," Roy responded.
Standing nearest the ringing phone, Patrick Anderson lifted the receiver. "Station 51, Firefighter Anderson speaking," he said crisply. He lowered the mouthpiece.
"DeSoto, it's for you. Rampart General, Nurse McCall."
Roy grabbed the phone from Anderson's hand and raised the receiver to his mouth. "Hi Dix," he said hesitantly. The room was filled with silent anticipation. The crew of Station 51 relaxed as they listened to Roy's exuberance.
"Really? You're really sure?" Roy paused again. "Dix, you are an angel. I'll be right over." Roy slammed the phone back into the cradle. "Johnny's awake. His responses are slow, but his eyes are open, " Roy beamed. "Anderson, we're going to the hospital."
"Sure, DeSoto, as soon as I finish my chili."
Taking Patrick's dish and placing it on the counter, Roy headed for the squad. "See, you're all done. We're going now."
"Captain Stanley, I do have a right to dinner, don't I?" Anderson protested.
"Sorry, you heard the man," Cap said. "You better not keep him waiting."
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Racing through the doors of Rampart's Emergency entrance, Roy DeSoto reached the nurse's station before Anderson entered the building. Dixie McCall, along with Joe Early, waited for him. Joe placed a hand on Roy's shoulder.
"Ready to go see your partner?" Joe asked.
"Lead the way," Roy answered.
"OK, let's go, then." Walking silently, Dr. Early decided that this would be the best time to prepare Roy for his visit with Johnny.
"Roy, I want you to understand that when you go in, Johnny may not recognize you. So please don't be upset. The recovery process is slow. His motor responses have improved, so that may be the only way he can react to you."
"Can Johnny speak?" Roy asked.
"Nothing clear," Joe replied.
"I understand. You know, Doc, I really thought this moment would never come. When Dixie called, I was sure she was going to tell me that Johnny was worse. For now, the fact that he's awake is enough for me."
"Good, you better go, then. He's waiting."
Stepping quietly up to the bed, Roy placed his hand on Johnny's. His friend opened his eyes in response but seemed to look at him through a haze.
"Remember me?" Roy asked.
Johnny's hand tightened around Roy's fingers.
Elated, Roy pulled up a chair to sit by the bed. "Welcome home, partner."
Fin
Author's note: Thanks to Paula, my ever-patient beta-reader and to Mary for keeping me honest (medically speaking).
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