Copyright 2000
Title: " Forgotten Loves"
Author: Spanky
Part: One
Rating: NC 17
Paring: Johnny and Nicci
Content Warning: Sex, Some strong language, and a little drug use by 17yr old johnny
Archive: Yes
Authors Notes: N/A
Forgotten Loves
by Spanky
Back in high school young Johnny walked swiftly into his Engish class taking a seat at his desk next to the window. Taking a load off, Donny Peters plopped in the seat in front of Johnny," Hey Johnny Boy, you'll never guess who I got to take to the Spring dance this Saturday," Donny said said quietly waithing for class to begin
" Who?" Johnny asked taking his eyes off the obscene picture he was drawing.
" I'm taking Peggy McDonalds." Donny announced
" Far out man, I hear she's pretty easy." Johnny said with his famous grin
" That's what I'm counting on, anyway I guess I don't have to ask you who you're taking, Nicole Rogers right." Donny said cutting Johnny a devilish grin
Before anwering Johnny sat there for a moment thinking of being alone with the girl he loved more then life it self." Yep I sure am, my one and only Half Pint."
" You two are going to Ricky's party ain't ya?, his parents are out of town that weekend, Just think of it no grown ups. I hear their going to have a keg and enough grass that will make you fall on your ass." Donny said laughing at his own rhyme.
" We'll try but I ain't gonna promise nothing, I plan to have are own little party by ourselves in the back seat of the Ramblier. Check it out, ya see, I got some weed I've been stashing just for us two and then who knows." Johnny said readjusting his cigarettes in his shirt pocket.
" Yeah , well just be careful I hear her old man is getting pissed off, word has it he's about to get the shot gun out. He's a preacher ya know. I bet he would really loose it if he found out you were the one that popped her cherry." Donny warned his friend of the possible dangers.
" Yeah I know he would be, but we haven't done anything yet and besides he don't scare me, He's just sore that his only daughter is dating a half breed that works at a filling station. Anyway I love Nicci no matter what her old man thinks of me." Johnny said just as class was about to begin.
..............
It was finally Saturday night and anybody who was anybody was at the spring dance." Well I see you made it Nicci, What'd you do hog tie your old man?" Donny said running up to Nicci and Johnny with Peggy at his side.
" Hey watch it ass hole, ya almost made me drop a perfectly good Hershey bar." Nicci said saving her candy bar from falling on the floor.
" You and your damn chocolate." Johnny said laughing at his Half Pint freaking out
" Hey you know me." Nicci said taking a bite
" Yeah, I know you Half Pint. Your world would stop spinning if they stopped making chocolate." Johnny said kissing the top of Nicci's head smelling her freshly washed hair
" Hey don't even kid bout something like that." Nicci said putting the last bit of candy in her mouth
" Well what did ya do with your old man? beat the shit out of him and stick him in a trash can"
" Of course not, I told him I was going over to Betty Lou's house to study the bible." Nicci said cutting a grin at Johnny as he looked at her with a smile.
" Study the bible, interesting and he bought it?" Johhnny asked as he continued to smile at Nicci with his dark brown eyes.
" He must have, I wouldn't be here if he didn't, Oh if he knew I lied to be with you he would blow his stack, but I don't care as long as I'm with you." Nicci said putting her hand in Johnny's " You know it is a real drag being a preachers kid, I don't like to lie to him but I will to see you Johnny." Nicci added as they moved to the dance floor.
Johnny and Nicci held each other close as the band played " Earth Angel". Listening to the words while swaying together they had never felt so much love as they did right at that moment. They knew that this song would be their's forever.
" I love you Nicole Rogers and one day we're going to get married." Johnny whispered in her ear.
Feeling her tears escape her blue eyes, she looked up at Johnny and whispered " And I love you Johnny Gage, you know that I would marry you in a heart beat."
Wiping her tears away he pulled her closer and whispered." What do you say we blow this joint and find somewhere to be alone I have something very special I want to give you."
>>>>>>
In a dark and secluded place Johnny and Nicci climbed into the back of the 1965 Ramblier.
" So exactly what did you have in mind?" Nicci asked
" I''ll show you." Johnny said pulling a joint out of his wallet. Lighting up the joint Johnny toked on it hard letting the smoke fill his lungs." Here this is some good shit." Johnny said passing the lit joint to Nicci still holding the smoke down in his lungs while trying not to choke.
Nicci took the joint from Johnny then got her own lungs filled." Holy shit." Nicci managed to speak while feeling the effects.
With in a few minutes the car was full with smoke and laughter as the two love birds had a party all their own. Johnny then got very quiet as he pulled out a cheap five and dime ring out of his pocket. Looking into Nicci's eyes then pulling her close." Now for your surprise, I know you deserve more but this is what I could afford. I love you so very much Half Pint, and I want you to be my girl forever." Johnny whispered while placing the ring on her finger.
" Oh Johnny it's beautiful I'll wear it forever." Nicci said kissing Johnny.
" I love you Nicci Rogers." Johnny repeated wrapping his lips around hers. Opening her mouth she allowed him to dart his tongue around. Loseing themselves in a night of passion, Johnny slid the straps down her arms exposing her perfectly rounded breasts." So beautiful" He whispered moving his hand down cupping her breast while she leaned back giving him full access to them Johnny kissed and sucked on each nipple until they were rock hard.
" Oh yesss." Nicci moaned feeling Johnny moving his hand slowly under her dress as she lifted her loins to him. Feeling her raise herself to him, Johnny pulled her panties down until they rested on the floor. As Nicci opened her legs. Slowly Johnny moved his hand up till it rested between her legs. He then opened her flesh with her fingers, gently slidding them inside her untouched hole moving it slowly in and out. Taking Johnny's manhood out she moaned." Oh Johnny it feels so good." aching with desire.
" Are you sure you want to do this?" Johnny said feeling his swollen member throb against her leg.
" Yes Johnny I want you to love me, I need you." Nicci said placing her hand on his erection.
Feeling her passion as it ran high, Johnny then slid down on his knees between her legs and gently guided his member deep inside her making Nicci moan. With each thrust Nicci grinded her hips up allowing Johnny to go deeper inside until they exploded together. When they finally came to their sences only the moon was the witness of the love that had just made." That was really far out." Nicci said allowing Johnny to lay his limp slender body next to her
" Yeah sure was." Johnny agreed taking her in his arms." I wish we could stay like this forever but it's getting late, and I should get you home before your old man calls the fuzz."
" Yeah I guess you're right, if my dad ever found out he would have kittens." Nicci agreed.
******* Two months later*****
" HOW COULD YOU BE SO SELFISH GETTING YOURSELF KNOCKED UP BY THAT GOOD FOR NOTHING HALF BREED?" Paster Rogers yelled pacing the floor of Nicci's room
" Dad I love him and he loves me we're going to get married." Nicci said looking at her father in hoped he would understand
" NICOLE YOU ARE JUST BARELY SIXTEEN AND HE'S SEVENTEEN AND WORKING AT A GAS STATION. THAT WORTHLESS HALF BREED CAN'T OFFER YOU ANYTHING." Paster Rogers said his temper flaring with every word
" I don't care what he does, I still want to be with him daddy." Nicci cried wiping her tears from the hateful words he saying about the boy she loved.
"I DON'T CARE, YOU ARE A DISAPPOINTMENT AND A DISGRACE NICOLE ROGERS. JUST THINK WHAT THE CHURCH WILL SAY WHEN THEY FIND OUT MY ONLY DAUGHTER IS KNOCKED UP BY A HALF BREED." Paster Rogers growled." You go get rid of that basturd you're carrying."
" No daddy I'm not going to I love Johnny, and besides doesn't your bible say your surpose to love everyone or is your bible differant from the rest of ours." Nicci cried raising her voice.
Listening to his daughter's words Paster Rogers exploded slapping her across the face." NICOLE MARIE ROGERS, YOU ARE NOT WELCOME IN THIS HOUSE WHILE YOU ARE CARRYING THAT GOOD FOR NOTHING HALF BREED'S KID, YOU GET RID OF IT OR ELSE." Paster Rogers ordered with fire in his eyes.
" No daddy I'm going to have his baby." Nicci protested against her fathers orders
" FINE HAVE IT YOUR WAY." Her father said storming out of the room
>>>>>
Sometime in the middle of the night Paster Rogers went back into Nicci's room with a suitcase in his hands." You better get up your Taxi's waiting." Paster Rogers said hurrying Nicci out of her bed.
" Taxi?" Nicci questioned with sleepy eyes
" Yes Taxi, your going to live with your aunt Nancy in Florida, I'm not going to let anyone see you knocked up."
"I don't want to go daddy I want to stay here." Nicci cried while being hurried down the stairs by her father
" Well you shouldn't of got knocked up by that worthless good for nothing basturd." Paster Rogers said scooting Nicci out of the house to the waiting taxi
" I DONT CARE WHERE I AM DADDY, I'M STILL LOVE HIM, YOU CANT KEEP US APART.MY HEART BELONGS TO JOHNNY." Nicci cried." YOU'LL SEE, ONE DAY WE'RE GONNA GET MARRIED." Nicci managed as the taxi cab sped off.
.....
" Man that was a rough one." Johnny said strolling into the day room at Station 51 Rubbing his aching shoulder Roy agreed.
" You said it Junior, over seven hours at a brush fire. I don't know bout you but I'm beat."
" Oh come on, at least we have the next two days off." Chet spoke up
" Yeah, I guess you're right." Johnny said thinking about the rest he so much deserved and needed
" Speaking of which, What big plans do you have?" Roy asked
" Nothing and I mean nothing, I'm going home and be lazy for the whole two days."
What about you, what's your plans?" Johnny asked stretching his arms out with a yawn. " I'm going to spend some time with Jo and the kids." Roy said as B shift was entering the room.
..........
Getting into his Land Rover Johnny knew that he was on his way to recovery and some good old fashion R and R. Johnny reached over to turn on the radio in hopes that some soothing music would help. Stopping at a very familiar song. " Earth Angel." Johnny said to himself allowing his mind to wounder back to his care free days when he was a teenager back in Montana. Singing out loud to the words, Johnny's eyes teared as he thought about all the fun he had in high school and his friends back home. " Damn I miss you guys." He whispered wiping a tear from his cheek. He thought about his best friend, the one he planned to spend the rest of his life with." Oh Half Pint I miss you." thinking of his true love he wiped the tears that flowed
*** The next morning***
Seeing that the clock on the nightstand said almost noon, Johnny climbed out of bed and headed for the bathroom to take a quick shower. Wrapping a towel around him he walked into the kitchen. Shit, I knew I forgot something. Johnny thought learning that he had used the last of the coffee. Oh well I should do some shopping anyway. He added to his thoughts as he headed to the bedroom to get dressed
...........
"Oh man I hate shopping, I'm never going to get out of here." Johnny said to himself checking out all the cars parked outside of the store.
As he walked through the isles picking out the last of his groceries, he headed for the check out until he heard a familiar voice from behind call out. " Johnny, Johnny Gage, Is that you?" the familiar voice called out
" Donny Peters, I don't believe it." Johnny said in excitement giving his old friend a hug.
" The one and only, So how you been man, Damn it's been along time." Donny said looking at Johnny
" Oh I'm fine, And You? I heard you and Peg finally got married."
" Sure did and we have five kids, What about you, you ever get hitched?" Donny asked
" Nope, I'm still single." Johnny said
" Did you go to the class reunion?" Donny asked
" No I had to work, Did you go?"
" Yeah I went, but it just wasn't the same." Donny said
" So what brings you to LA?" Johnny asked
" Oh I'm on vacation visiting my aunt. Peg decided to stay home with the kids back in Kentucy. What about you?"
" I live here." Johnny said
" Hey do you think about the good days? you know, how much fun we used to have the four of us. I wonder what ever happened to Nicci?" Donny asked
" I don't know, I haven't seen her since and probably never will, She just vanished." Johnny said looking down to the floor as his thoughts of her rushed back to him.
Seeing that it still hurt his friend to think about his girl, Donny changed the subject." Well I guess I better get going my aunt is waiting."
" Okay, it was good to see you again, Call me." Johnny said writing his number down and handing it to his friend.
" I will who knows maybe I'll come back to LA with Peg and we can get back some of the good old days." Donny said
" I don't know about that I'm a fireman/ Paramedic and I don't think Captain Stanley would like it to well if I did half the shit I used to." Johnny said smiling at the notion.
" Well I don't think my Sargent would like it much either I turned out to be a cop." Donny said waving goodbye to his friend
" I don't believe it, Donny Peters a cop." Johnny said returning the wave.
**************
It was two o'clock in the morning and the guys had just returned from a structure fire. They had just settled back in their bunks and barely got their heads on their pillows, when the Klaxons sounded again.
" Station 51, female with unknown type injury, Hollywood strip, Across from Hooters Night Club, time out 2:42."
" Station 51, KMG 365." Captain Stanley responded while his crew carried their tired bodies to the waitin vehicles.
" Hey Junior, isn't the Hollywood strip where....." Roy started
" Yep," Johnny interrupted." It's a breeding ground for gangs, druggies and prostitutes. You name it it's there."
..........
Both the engine and squad pulled up to the strip to see it fully alive. Complete with neon lights and the average street walkers,most of them being half dressed young ladies obviously looking for their next meal. " Well at least the police are here to make sure things don't get out of hand." Roy said coming to a stop in front of the night club.
" Stoker watch both the Engine and the Squad, we don't want to risk them getting vandelized." Stanley ordered as he knew that the strip was a very dangerous place and should be feared by all. Captain Stanley and the rest of his crew then walked up to Officer Vince Howard." What do we got here?" Captain asked
" Well according to a wittness there's been a severe beating. I'm told that the victim is a well known prostitute who was beat up by her irate pimp. Other then that that's all we know." Officer Howard said ushering the Captain and his crew past the crowd. "
" Excuse me." Roy said pushing his way through the crowd
" Ohhhhh yeah, look at the sexy firemen, hey hose boys you want to party with me, I promise I wont charge to much." A voice flirted from the crowd.
" Not in this life time." Chet said under his breath
" Come on, give the guys some room to work." Howard demanded pushing the crowd back.
" Gage, you want to get the vitals, Capt., we're going to need the oxygen." Roy announced setting up the biophone. " Rampart, this is County 51, Do you copy?" Roy said speaking into the receiver
" This is Rampart, go ahead 51." Brackett responded
" Rampart we have a female approximatly 23 years of age who is a victim of an assult. She has muliple lacerations and contusions on the face and a large himatoma on the right side of her head above the ear. There are numerous needle marks on the inside of both of her arms indicating drug addiction. The victim is somewhat unconscious at this time. Vitals are BP 90 over 40, Pulse is 60 and Resparations are 12 and labored.
" 10-4 51, Start IV ringers lactate, Administer 6 liters O2 keep monitoring vitals and transport." Brackett ordered
"10-4 Rampart."
Soon the victim was loaded in the ambulance. Johnny sat on the bench next to the victim and checked her vitals once again. He then continued to clean the cuts off her face. As he looked closer to the girl next to him he felt as if his heart was going to leap out of his chest. " No it can't be, Nicci." Johnny said in disbelief barely in a whisper as the ambulance came to a stop.
" Let's get her in room six." Brackett said walking up to the gurney before entering the room
" You need us anymore?" Roy asked walking toward the door.
" No, thanks guys." Brackett said " Come on Junior, lets go and get some sleep." Roy said nudging at his partner.
Without a responce Roy nudged his partner again." Johnny you feeling okay? You look like you've seen a ghost. You're not coming down with something?"
Turning to face his partner, Johnny gave a fake smile and responded." Who me, no I feel great." While tapping his chest before leaving the room.
............
My mind must be playing tricks on me. But she looked so much like her. If it was her what could have happened? No it can't be her. Johnny thought shaking the posibility out of his head
Stealing glances at his partner, Roy could tell something was weighing heavy on his mind. His face looked ghost white and his eyes had the look of confussion and shock." Are you sure your not coming down with something?" Roy asked
" No I'm fine, lets get some sleep kay." Johnny said ignoring Roy's concern
**** The Next Morning*****
Captain Stanley walked into the day room with his crew following close behind." Morning, your up kind of early." Stanley said walking over to the coffee pot.
" Yeah I know I just couldn't sleep." Johnny said craddleing his chin in his hand
As Captain Stanley took a seat at the table, he noticed Johnny's paled complexion. " Gage you feel okay you look kind of pale."
" No I'm fine, just tired." Johnny assured
" Johnny, Jo and I are taking the kids to the water slide after I rest up a bit, I was wondering if you wanted to tag along?" Roy asked
" No that's okay, I have some plans." Johnny said thinking about the girl he saw last night
" Must be pretty important plans to turn down the water park." Stanley said
" Yeah they are." Johhny said
.................
As Johnny walked through the parking lot at Rampart General, he pondered over the situation in his head. What if it's not her. But what if it is? Johnny was torn, a part of him wanted it to be her so he could find out why she left him. The other part of him didn't cause he couldn't bare the thought of his Nicci being on the streets. With that final thoughts he walked through the double doors.
As Dixie watched Johnny walk up to the desk, she could sence something was wrong by the way he carried himself. Getting a closer look she saw that his face was drawn and his eyes were out lined with dark circles. " Hey Johnny what brings you by? You okay?" Dixie asked
" I feel great." Johnny lied." I was wondering if I could visit the girl we brought in last night.
" I guess you can see her. Why? Do you know her?" Dixie asked seeing that Johnny's eyes had the look of worry
"No I dont know her. I was just wondering how she was doing."
" Well fortunately she suffered no real serious injury, Kel says she should be released tomorrow. All and all I think she's pretty lucky. Do you realize how many people we see just like her that don't make it." Dixie said Johnny nodded his head then turning to the elevator.
............
Johnny stood in the shadows of the tiny room starring at the girl in the bed. From where he stood he could see that her face was still swollen and heavily bruised. Before he had the chance to change his mind he whispered." Nicci."
The girl opened her blackened eyes to see a slender body standing in the door way." Who's there?" She asked in a small and broken voice
" It's me Nicci, it's Johnny." Johnny slowly revealing himself.
Looking up she managed to put the tall man into focus. She stared for a moment then turned her head in shame." Why you of all people." She whispered as tears formed in her eyes.
Johnny stood there watching her body tremble." Nicci it's okay." Johnny said putting his hand on her shoulder for confort.
"No, don't touch me." Nicci cried jerking away from his touch. Then drawing her legs to her chest.
Johnny's heart broke as the girl he loved so much pull away from him in fear. " Nicci don't be scared of me, I'm not going to hurt you." Johnny said soothingly. It was obvious to him that she was very frightened.
" Just go away, I don't want to see you." Nicci cried softly
" Nicci my heart wont let me. I need to know why you left me."
" I can't, you wouldn't understand." Nicci said
" I can try, don't you think you owe me, I loved you so much, When you left you took apart of me with you." Johnny said sitting next to her on the bed.
With those words she looked up." You mean you knew?" She asked
" Knew what? Nicci come on, all I'm asking is that you be honest with me. The way you left me without so much as a letter, I thought you loved me."
" Oh Johnny, don't think for a second I didn't love you cause I did, probably more then life it self. Back then you were my life. " Nicci said
" Then why did you leave?" Johnny wanted to know
Then choosing her words carefully she spoke barely audible." My dad, he kicked me out and made me move to Flordia to live with my aunt when he found out I was..." Nicci stopped to swallow a sob
" When he found out what, Nicci tell me what did he find out." Johnny pleaded taking her hand to stop it from shaking. Only to have her withdraw it away.
" Oh Johnny he found out I was pregnant. He was furious. He couldn't bare the thought of his daughter being knocked up by a half breed, As he always liked put it." Nicci said wipping the tears away.
With shock taking control, Johnny sat on the edge of the bed" You mean you were pregnant and never told me? Nicci I don't understand, If you have my child then why are you on the street?" Johnny asked trying desperately to understand
"Johnny I wanted to tell you but my dad made me move before I got the chance. I even tried writing you but my aunt was so strict and mean. Everytime I tried to write you or contact you she would get real mad and tell my uncle and he would beat me with his belt. He beat me so hard sometimes he left welts. I was so terrified of him that I stopped trying to tell you." Nicci said taking a deep breath and swallowing hard before continuing." Then one night it got to much for me and I tried to run a way but I was caught by the police and they took me back. My uncle beat the fuck out of me, he beat me so hard I couldn't hardly move. That same night I started bleeding, I......" Nicci whimpered in pain now shaking uncontrolably
" Nicci what happened, Where is our baby?" Johnny wanted to know.
" Johnny I never got the chance to hold our son, I miscarried that night." Nicci sobbed hanging her head
Johnny's heart was breaking, Feeling the loss of his son that never got the chance to live. It was almost more then he could bare. With tears of his own he whispered" Oh Nicci I'm so sorry, I had no idea."
" I didn't know what to do Johnny. All I knew was that I couldn't stay there anymore. So about a month after the miscarrige, I ran away and never looked back. I hitch hiked all the way to Montana to see you. But when I got there you were gone. I asked around but they said that you had moved. Nobody knew where you were. I thought about going back home to my dad, but I was still so angry with him. I didn't want to face him Johnny so I kept running, thats when I ended up in New York. I tried to make it but I was only sixteen years old, I had no money, nobody would give me a job. I was so cold and hungry, and living on the streets. Then I met Knuckles and He showed me how to survive on the streets and told me of a way that I could make money selling what guys wanted. I remember the first time I turned a trick, Oh God I cried, I felt so cheap and dirty. It wasn't my first choice for a carreer, you know. " Nicci stopped to wipe her tears. " Anyway, Knuckles knew it bothered me so he offered me a hit of heroin and I took it. When I was stoned nothing hurt me. When I came down Knuckles was always there to pick me up again. I knew I was getting hooked but I didn't care. I knew my life was over." Nicci sobbed turning back towards the wall. They sat there in silence as their tears fell.
Johnny desperately searched for the right words that might ease her pain but he was speechless. Hearing the pain in Nicci's voice was more then he could stand.
Then in a small voice she whimpered." Johnny I want out, I don't want to do live anymore, not like this."
With those soft spoken words Johnny for the first time saw a glimmer of hope. " It's okay Nicci I'm here and I will help you."
" There's nothing you can do Johnny, Knuckles won't let me go. He found out I was stashing money for a bus ticket. That's why he beat the hell out of me last night." Nicci cried turning to look at Johnny
" It's okay Nicci, I'm here and I promise he wont hurt you again. I'm going to help you get out." Johnny said in a soothing voice
" It's not that simple, He says that he would kill whoever tries to help me, besides look at me I'm a mess, I've been shooting up for more then six years." Nicci whimpered extending her arms to show the scars left behind from the needles.
" I know Nicci, it's okay I'm here." Johnny assured
" Does this look like it's okay to you." Nicci cried raising her voice." Anyway just leave and forget about me." Nicci sobbed turning to the wall Johnny placed his hand on her shoulder.
" No Nicci I'm not going to leave you." Johnny said soothingly
"DON'T YOU UNDERSTAND I DON'T WANT YOU ANYMORE, SO GET THE FUCK OUT OF HERE AND LEAVE ME ALONE." Nicci screamed jerking away from his touch." Just go please." She whimpered while raising her trembleing hand to shield her head, terrified of being hurt.
Johnny watched as Nicci shook uncontrolable and he realized that the best thing he could do was leave her." Okay Nicci I'll go if that's what you want but I'll be back. I'm not going to lose you again." Johnny whispered before leaving.
.............
As Johnny sat in his Land Rover, he could no longer hold his tears back. He was lost, he didn't know how to help Nicci but he knew that he had to try. He knew that if he didn't do something he would lose her forever. Driving home he realized that he could never confide in Roy and the others or even tell a soul about Nicci or the situation. He could hear Roy tell him that he was making a mixtake getting involved and he knew that the rest would just harrass him about getting tangled up with a junkie let a lone a prostitute.
***********
" Squad 51 man down 443 Eastmon 443 Eastmon, between Derailer and Maiden, time out 10:22."
" Squad 51, KMG 365." Captain Stanley responded
Johnny and Roy got half way to the scene when the dispatcher anounced, Squad 51 cancel."
Roy turned off the lights and siren." Good maybe we can go back to the station and work some more on the log book." Roy said taking off his helmet.
" Hey Roy, lets go to Rampart and get some supplies." Johnny suggested thinking it would be a good time to visit Nicci.
" Okay we're going to have to get them later anyway." Roy agreed
................
Upon entering Roy and Johnny spotted Dixie standing in the hall." Hey Dix." then seeing that she seemed a little shaken Roy asked " Are you alright?"
Dixie looked up at Johnny then at Roy with a puzzled look, " Huh, oh yeah it's nothing, You guys need supplies?" She asked
" Yeah, Hey Roy you think you can get them? I'm gonna go visit someone." Johnny said turning to leave only to be stopped by Dixie
" Johnny there's something you need to know, she's not here anymore." Dixie said looking down at the floor.
" She's been released Already, who picked her up?" Johnny asked
" No, she wasn't released yet and I don't know who it was, but it was clear she didn't want to go with him. I can't say that I blame her. The guy looked like something from hell. He wore chains and had a lot of tatoos. I could tell he was on drugs. Anyway I don't know who he was but he scared the shit out of me and some of my nurses. In fact at one point we thought he was going to hit her." Dixie explained watching as Johnny's expression changed.
With the words that Dixie spoke, Johnny felt as if his world was falling apart all around him and there was nothing he could do to stop it. " Why what happened?" He asked looking down at the ground hopping to hide his fear and worry
" Well when she told him she didn't want to go with him he got very angry and violent. He grabbed her by the hair and yanked her head back very hard. He called her terrible names, said that she was nothing but trash and that she wasn't good for nothing but a piece of ass. Then he threatened her, he said that if she didn't go with him he would kill her. You know what, I believe him. I thought for sure he was going to hit her by the way he was waving his fist at her." Dixie explained
" Didn't anyone try to stop him from......" Johnny started his fear taking over
" Of course we did but it all happened so fast he grabbed her by the arm and ran out the door. By the time I got off the phone with the police they were out the door. Security ran after them but ther were gone before they could catch up to them. Police came and took the report but so far we haven't heard anything.
" Johnny you okay?" Roy asked seeing fear sweep across his partners face
" Yeah I'm alright." Johnhy lied
" Are you sure? You look kind of worried."
" Roy, I said I was okay, what more do you want from me." Johnny snapped
" Hey I'm sorry, you don't have to bite my head off. I just wanted to know that's all, you seem upset." Roy said in his defence.
" Look I'm sorry I snapped, but really I'm okay. Even if I were upset, what the hell would it matter." Johnny said walking out to where the squad was parked. With his anger growing, Johnny stood just outside Rampart. Knowing the danger Nicci was in was tearing him apart. " SON OF A BITCH." He exploded punching a concrete piller just outside the door. Then in a huff he jumped into the squad and slammed the door.
" What was that all about?" Brackett asked witnessing Johnny's outburst
" I haven't a clue." Roy said
..............
Driving back to the station Roy turned to find Johnny starring silently out the side window. Roy could see the anger etched clearly on his partners face. Parking the squad in the bay, Roy turned to face Johnny, " You want to talk about it." Roy said turning off the engine.
Johnny looked over at Roy. For a split second he wanted to talk but then not knowing how Roy would react about Nicci he decided against it." No I don't want to talk, I just want to be a lone for awhile okay." Johnny said getting out of the squad.
Johnny walked into the locker room and took a seat inside his locker. With tears forming, he closed his eyes taking him back to the memories of her. He remembered her smile and how her eyes captured the soft moon light the first time they made love in the Ramblier. Then taking her picture out of his wallet he held it close. Unable to hold his tears back he cried. For he longed to hold his Nicci one more time.
Roy quietly opened the door of the locker room, seeing his partner cry was the last thing he exspected. Roy wanted so much to help his partner with what ever it was that was bothering him. Then thinking that it was best to leave him alone, Roy left shutting the door behind him After some time Johnny walked into the dayroom to find his friends sitting around the table eating a late lunch. " Johnny you feeling better?" Roy asked seeing his partner's face stained with tears
" Yeah I'm feeling much better thanks." Johnny lied while slowly sinking into a chair.
" Good, I was starting to think you had something against my clam chowder." Stanley said pouring a laddle full in a bowl then sitting it in front of Johnny. Johnny sat there picking at the contents of the bowl in front of him." Gage is there something wrong with the chowder?" Captain Stanley asked
" No, I guess I'm just not very hungry." Johnny said excusing himself from the table just as the Klaxons sounded.
**** Two weeks later******
Johnny was bound and determined to find Nicci. Every night for the past two weeks he drove up and down the strip searching for her. Even though each night brought him new disappointment he wasn't going to give up. He knew in his heart that he was the only one that could help her get out of the dangerous life she was living. He could not bare the thought of her dying out there alone. Johnny knew he had to do whatever it took to find her before it was to late. " Oh Nicci, where are you?" Johnny said softly to himself while driving down the strip for what seemed to be the hundredth time that evening. He knew she was out here somewhere, maybe hurt or worse. Johnny didn't like where his thoughts were headed but he was certain there was a good chance that at one point he would find her dead. Suddenly his search paid off as he spotted Nicci coming out of a darkened alley followed by a man twice her age. By the was she was dressed it was obvious to Johnny that she was open and ready for business. Johnny quickly brought his Land Rover to a stop, parking it in front of a small group of ladies. Then grabbing an Indian blanket he kept behind the seat, he got out and walked over to Nicci. As he got closer to the group he could hear their conversation.
" Yeah fucking ten dollars, that's all the son of a bitch paid me for a piece of ass." Nicci said waving a ten dollar bill in the air.
" Shit man I hate those fucking cheap basturds." Another girl said
" It's okay, I'll make it up with the next ass hole that comes a long." Nicci said turning around to see Johnny standing behind her. Hanging her head she asked quietly. " What the hell do you think you''re doing here?"
Johnny walked up closer then draped the blanket around her shoulders covering her almost fully exposed body from the rest of the world." Nicci come on, I'm here to help you, come with me." Johnny said softly
" Johnny I can't go with you not now not ever." Nicci said pulling away.
Johnny could see the fear dancing around in her eyes as she looked around nervously. Johnny walked up to her again this time taking her gently by the arms." Nicci is this the kind of life you really want." Johnny spoke softly squinting from the shine of a gold chain she wore around her neck. " Nicci you said you wanted out of this way of life, I'm here to help you get out, if you still want out."
" Sure I still want out, but it's not going to happen so why bother trying. You know it's not that simple, I can't just walk away. Knuckles is probably watching me right now and he'd be fucking pissed off if he saw you put that blanket around me. Johnny I don't want to cause you any trouble. Please just go away, you don't belong here." Nicci warned
" Nicci I'm not going to just walk away and forget you. I still care about you very much. Just thinking of you dying out here scares the hell out of me. Nicci don't you remember how much I loved you back in Montana." Johnny said not even trying to hide his worry.
Wiping her tears away she hung her head." Johnny don't waste your time caring about me, You've got a good life, you don't need me fucking it up for you. Don't you know that girl you knew back in Montana is dead. Now go forget about me please, cause I'm not worth it." She spoke softly then walked back over to her homies.
As Johnny stood there her words still echoing in his head. He knew in his heart that if he left her he would never see her again. He couldn't see himself turning his back on her. She needed him to much rather she knew it or not.
" Nicci what the fuck are you doing?" Bambi asked grabbing Nicci by the arm
" What the hell you think I'm doing? I'm staying." Nicci said jerking her arm from Bambi's grasp
" Fine, you have it your way but let me tell you something. You know as well as I do people like us die out here, all alone with no one to even claim our bodies. And you know how many unmarked graves they're are of our friends that died this month alone. Without one single person to even pay their respects. Many of us can only dream of having a Prince Charming come and save us from this fucking hell we live in. This is your chance Nicci, don't turn your back on it. You know you'll never get this chance again. You'll die out here just like me." Bambi said with tears of her own running down her cheeks
Over hearing the words that Bambi spoke it was clear to Johnny that each and every girl out there on the streets had their own stories, As he looked around he no longer saw women selling themselves, what he saw was the innocent girls that they used to be, crying out for help that would never come. He didn't know what happened to them but he knew that their pain was real.
" I guess you're right, Bambi I want to go, but I'm scared to death that Knuckles will find out. You know how mean he can get." Nicci cried
" Nicci it'll be okay, he wont find out. Now go don't keep your Prince Charming waiting." Bambi assured
With Bambi's words ringing in her ears, Nicci looked around at the life she was about to leave, She wasn't sure of what tomorrow would bring but it had to be better then anything she had on the strip. With those thoughts Nicci walked back to Johnny with Bambi at her side." Johnny this is Bambi, Bambi this is Johnny." Nicci introduced
" Hi Bambi, it's nice to meet you." Johnny said with a smile while greeting her with a hand shake.
Nicci looked up at Johnny and began to tremble." Johnny I really do want out and Bambi says that I shouldn't turn my back on my chance. Johnny I'm scared. I don't want anything to happen to you. Knuckles said he would kill anyone who tried to help me. I believe him Johnny cause I think he's done it before." Nicci cried
" Nicci as far as Knuckles is concerned, I'll tell him that Johnny here hired you. By the time he knows the truth it'll be to later for him to do anything about it." Bambi assured
" Thanks that'll help, Nicci you can stay at my place tonight and then tomorrow I'll put you someplace where Knuckles can't ever hurt you again." Johnny said reaching for her hand Before climbing into the Land Rover,
Nicci turned and looked at Bambi. Then taking Bambi in her arms she hugged her friend good bye." Thanks Bambi for helping me, You are a real good friend and I'll never forget you."
Bambi pulled away from the embrace and smiled " Hey no prob, just do me a favor, If you see another handsome Prince Charming send him my way." Bambi said fighting her tears.
" I will Bambi." Nicci said
ooooo
As Johnny pulled up to his tiny one bedroom house, he managed to steal side glances at Nicci. He could see her small body shaking " Nicci you don't have to be scared." Johnny assured softly. Without a responce he placed his hand gently on her shoulder only to have her pull away in fear.Even though his heart ached every time she pulled away from him, he understood.He realized that it would be along time until she was able to trust him if ever. Johnny turned off the engine and then walked Nicci up to the porch. "Here you go, it's not much but it's safe." Johnny said as he pushed the front door open. Seeing that she was very frightened, he extended his hand for guidence. Nicci backed away as her body trembled in fear." Nicci please don't be afraid, I'm not going to hurt you." Johnny said soothingly
Nicci looked around sparingly at her surroundings.Then with hesitation she walked slowly through the door
"That's better."Johnny said as he shut and locked the door "Can I get you something to eat."Johnny offered
Without a word Nicci shook her head no.
" Are you sure? It looks like you haven't eaten in days." Johnny said being able to count each rib protruding out from her slender body.Seeing Nicci nod, Johnny asked." Well when was the last time you ate."
Nicci looked down to the floor shyly answered " I don't know."
"Well you need to eat Nicci, you'll get sick if you don't." Johnny said authoratively
"Johnny." Nicci whispered nervously " If.....if....it's okay I......I just want to go to bed now."
"It's okay Nicci, you can go to bed if you want I understand. Here you can sleep in the bed and I'll take the couch." Johnny offered ushering her to his bedroom Then walking in the small room, Johnny walked over to his dresser and took out a T-shirt. " Here you can change into this and I'll see you in the morning." Johnny then left the room shutting the door behind him.
Johnny then decided it was time for him to go to bed as well. As he layed on the couch he thought about Nicci and how scared she was of him. He knew that when a person is hurt it's very hard for them to trust. Nicci is no exception he knew that she had been hurt both mentally and physically. He didn't know how to help her over come her fears of him but he knew he had to try.
.....
It was three o'clock in the morning and Johnny was sleeping sound on the couch, suddenly a small noise coming from the bathroom woke him from his slumber. Johnny picked himself up to search for the unusual sound. Stopping at the bathroom he asked" Nicci is that you ?" while tapping on the door. When he didn't get an answer he asked " Nicci are you okay?" while opening the door. " Nicci are you okay?" Johnny repeated walking over to the toilet where she was sitting. Nicci slowly picked her head up and looked at Johnny with blood shot eyes " Oh Nicci." Johnny whispered in disbelief seeing the vpen on her arm sticking out with blood trickling down from the fresh needle mark. To Johnny this was all new to him, he never saw a person just after shooting up until now.
"I'm sorry Johnny,please don't hurt me." Nicci said softly shielding her face from harm
Seeing her shake in fear, Johnny crouched down gently placing his hand on her shoulder
"Don't you hurt me." Nicci cried while picking herself up only to fall to the floor.
Johnny gently stood her up on her feet bringing her limp body close to him. Feeling her body shake he whispered." I'm not going to hurt you Nicci."
Pulling away. Nicci cried." No No please don't hit me, let me go, I'm just not strong enough, please let me go." while staggering to the door
Walking up behind her Johnny put his arm against the door to stop her from leaving "No Nicci I'm not going to let you go, and I know your not strong enough to kick it by yourself. Nicci I'm here to help you."Johnny said as soothingly as he could
Nicci, feeling trapped and in danger she spun around slapping Johnny hard across the face"NO,JUST LEAVE ME THE FUCK ALONE." Nicci cried
Feeling the sting on his cheek he was more determined then ever "No Nicci, I'm not going to leave you alone." Johnny said taking her shaking body in his arms.
"Oh no not again ." Nicci cried. Johnny looked down at Nicci and seen that her nose was dripping blood. Steading her next to the sink, Johnny then pulled away long enough to get a piece of toilet paper . No sooner did he pull away Nicci started gagging.
"Nicci." Johnny said as he wittnessed her vomiting blood. " It's going to be okay Nicci, I got you." He repeated over her sounds of retching. Seeing that she was to weak from vomiting he scooped her up in his arms and carryied her into the bedroom and put her to bed. Laying down next to her he thought it best not to leave her alone. As he watched her sleep he began to shed tears. He knew from his training vomiting blood was a sign of a very serious drug addiction.
...........The next morning........
Nicci staggered over to the table, then sat recklessly down it a chair next to where Johnny was sitting reading the morning paper "Morning, are you hungry? help yourself to a doughnut." Johnny offered sliding the box of doughnuts over to her.
Nicci cautiously reached her hand out towards the box. Suddenly without warning a loud noise spooked her, making her jerk her hand back." I'm sorry I didn't mean to." Nicci cried hiding her face in her hands
"Shhh there there, you don't have to be afraid." Johnny soothed while putting his arm around her only to have her pull away with a gasp.
Johnny then looked down at her arm noticing a new mark that was left behind from yet another needle.For a moment Johnny sat there, Apart of him was angry because he couldn't understand why. But the other part of him was very sad. It was tearing him apart seeing that the girl he love look so sick and frail. After seeing that Nicci was calming down Johnny said softly" Nicci I call Richards Rehab Clinic they're exspecting you."
Without a responce Nicci slowly got to her feet and headed to the bedroom. Seeing Nicci stagger, Johnny got up and helped her into the bedroom. then realizing she wasn't able to function by herself , he quickly helped her get dressed.
.........................
Johnny parked the Land Rover in the parking lot of the six story building "Where am I?" Nicci asked coming down off her fix
"We're at the clinic." Johnny said
"Johnny I'm scared, I don't know if I can go through with this."Nicci said hanging her head down to cry
"It'll be okay, I know you're scared Nicci." Johnny soothed placing his arm around her having her stiffen from his touch
"No don't touch me." Nicci cried
"Nicci come on, you'll be safe here.You have to believe me, if you're going to survive, then this is the place to start.They're professionals and they will help you get your life back." Johnny said
With tears running down her cheeks Nicci looked up " Maybe I don't want to survive."She softly spoke
........
"Hi can I help you?" The lady from behind the desk asked
"Yes we're here for admittance." Johnny said
"I see, well you'll need to fill out these forms. You can have a seat and someone will be with you shortly." The lady said starring down at the track marks on Nicci's arms
Seeing that the lady was looking at her arms Nicci became increasingly agitated. Feeling the fire move through her, she exploded." WHAT THE FUCK ARE YOU LOOKING AT."Nicci yelled slamming her fist down hard on the counter.
"Nicci." Johnny said stunned by her actions
"She's fucking starring at me and if she don't stop I'll kick her ass." Nicci said glaring at the lady
"Ms. you're going to have to calm down or I'll have to call security." The lady declared
"Go ahead see if I care."Nicci dared leaning into the womans face.
Noticing Nicci's clunched fist, Johnny grabbed her hand and said" Nicci please calm down we're only trying to help you."
"Yeah well I never asked for your help, I just want everyone to leave me alone." Nicci declared stomping away. She then allowed her body to drop into one of the chairs in the lobby.
Johnny sat in front of her and started filling out the forms. He could sence her eyes on him. He knew that it was best not say anything to her, for fear that one wrong word would set her off again. When he finally got the nerve to look up he found Nicci had layed down at went to sleep. With a slight grin he turn his attention back to the stack of papers.
Just as he was finishing a man walked up to him
" Hi I'm Paster Richard Daniels, I'm the owner and the Director of Admissions. I want to welcome you to Richards Rehab Clinic. Is this the person being admitted?"
"Yes it is. I'm John Gage.It's nice to meet you." Johnny greeted exstending his hand
"Well we'll get her up and then go into my office to finish the paper work" Daniels said
Johnny bent over to Nicci and with a light stroke on her head he whispered. " Nicci wake up it's time."
With a slight stir Nicci became a little agitated ." Get the fuck away from me." She said taking a full swing at Johnny
"Hold on let me call security just in case she becomes violent." Daniels said trying to avoid the confrontation
Two security officers joined them each of them waving a set of handcuffs. Johnny then tried to wake her again. "Nicci come on." Johnny said with caution.
Nicci then sat up. " What's going on, What the hell are those to cops doing here ?"
"Nicci they're not cops, there just here to make sure things don't get out of hand ." Johnny assured.
"Yeah well I hate cops so get them the fuck away from me now."Nicci said glaring up at the officers then at Paster Daniels.
........
Soon they entered the small room and was seated in front of Paster Daniels who was sitting behind a desk. As Paster Daniels finished with the addmission Johnny could tell Nicci was becoming increasingly disturbed by the way her eyes darted nerviously around the room. "Are there any questions?" Daniels asked
"No I ain't got no questions." Nicci responded
"Very well then." Daniels said as he too was becoming aware of Nicci's agitation and called for an orderly and put security on alert.
"Johnny I'm scared, I don't want to go." Nicci cried when the orderly came into the room taking her by the arm " Don't fucking touch me." She warned pulling her arm out of the orderly's grasp
"Nicci you have to understand that this is for the best. If you want to do anything with your life then this is the first step. You have to trust me on this one. there's nothing I want to do more is to help you, but first you have to help yourself.." Johnny said softly.
With those words Nicci hung her head as the orderly ushered her out of the room.
.......
Paster Daniel sat back down at his desk" Have a seat Mr. Gage I would like to go over a few things if I may. Johnny took a seat as Daniels began to speak." Okay we're looking at a minimum of at least four weeks of total rehab. We will start her on Naltrexone for detox and Clonidine for Hypertension. If needed we will put her on Antidepressants.We are a full staff with nurses 24 hours a day and two doctors that are on call around the clock. Also in the first two weeks of addmission we request only one visitor. Since you are the one who brought her to us, you are the only person allowed to visit.This way we can be sure that drugs do not come in and distroy everything that is accomplished. Depending on how violent recovery and withdrawl is we ask that you visit a least once a week. It is a very scary and lonely place here for our residents. If our residents are going to be successfull here they're going to need to know they have support from the outside.Then after the two weeks depending on her progress she will be allowed to be signed out for field trips for the day and then be brought back here at night. This way she is slowly introduced to the outside before she is released.Can I and my staff count on you to come in to visit and be apart of her recovery." Daniels finished
" You bet I will." Johnny assured.
"Good, because I and my staff can only do so much in here. We need people like yourself to help, especially once she's released. One wrong word or major set back on the outside could throw her into complete relapse." Paster Daniels warned just as his name came over the innercom
...........THREE DAYS LATER......
" Hey Gage, someone's here to see you." Stanley announced peeking his head into the day room
Johnny walked out to the back parking lot to see a small gang dressed in chains.
" Can I help you?" Johnny asked swallowing a lump in his throat.
"Oh I think you can, you see I'm Knuckles. This is Blade, Chains, Scar and Shaggy. I believe you have something that belongs to me, Where's Nicci." Knuckles asked walking up close to Johnny
"I don't know any Nicci." Johnny said nervously feeling his heart try to leap out of his chest.
"Bull shit, That's not what I hear. Word on the street is you were one of them that took her to the hospital when I beat the fuck out of her. Shaggy here says that he saw you and Nicci together on the strip three nights ago. That's the last time Nicci was seen. Now I'm going to ask you again, where is she?" Knuckles asked shoving Johnny back.
"I don't know what you're talking about. Now if you'll excuse me." Johnny said trying to slip by the situation
"You're lying to me. Now I want Nicci back do you understand." Knuckles said grabbing Johnny by the back of his head. You have two weeks to give her back. If you don't you will pay. And don't think we'll let you forget about our visit, cause we will be back to remind you. See I would love to fuck that pretty face of yours up real bad." Knuckles said taking a fist full of Johnny's hair then yanking his head back as hard as he could.
Just as the klaxons sounded
"Excuse me I got to go." Johnny said looking over at his friends climbing into the vehicles
"Okay, but just remember you have something that belongs to me. So you better watch your back cause one day you might get a bullet in it."Knuckles warned punching Johnny hard in the stomach. With a grunt Johnny grabbed his stomach while running to the squad.
.............
The guys finally made it back to the station and had just finished the lunch that Marco prepared. "You okay Pal ? You're holding your stomach like it's bothering you." Captain Stanley said watching Johnny get up from the table
"I'm fine it must be Marco's chilli. Johnny said shifting his eyes nerviously hoping that the guys in the room believed him.
"My chilli never bothered you before." Marco spoke up defending his masterpiece.
"There's always a first." Johnny said leaving the room
ooooooo
" Hey Junior you want to come over for supper tonight, Jo's fixing a roast." Roy said getting into his car.
" No, that's okay I got plans then after that I have to do some shopping, I'm just about out of everything.
" Oh well I'll see you later then." Roy said
............
Johnny walked up to the counter at the clinic." Hi, I'm Mr. Gage and I'm here to see Nicci."
" Oh yes Mr. Gage, she's on the sixth floor room 620." The lady behind the counter announced
Johnny made his way up to the sixth floor to find Paster Daniels standing in the hall." Mr. Gage, it's so good to see you." Paster Daniels greeted shaking Johnny's hand
"I'm glad to be here, tell me how's Nicci doing?"
"Well what can I say. The withdrawl is taking it's toll on her, She's got the shakes real bad and she's in considerable pain. She started throwing up blood so we had her on a twenty four hour watch so we could administer an IV with ringers. Needless to say we had to restrain her so that she couldn't pull out the IV."
" I see, well can I see her?" Johnny asked
" Yeah I think so, she's very frightened and I think a visit would do her a world of good. But be aware she could become violent. If she does push the call button."
From where Johnny stood just out side the doorway, he could see Nicci laying on the bed in the fetal postion shaking uncontrolably. She was wearing white baggy pants and a white shirt with numbers on the back of it. As he stood there he wanted so much to take all her pain away but he knew that he couldn't. The only thing he could do was be strong not just for himself but for her as well. Holding back his tears, he walked into the room and softly called out her name." Nicci."
Hearing her name, Nicci bolted up from the bed. " Thank God you're here please go get me some shit please I need it. It' hurts so much.' Nicci pleaded
" No Nicci you know I would do anything for you, but I can't do what your asking." Johnny said soothingly.
Hearing him tell her no Nicci became full of rage." WHAT THE FUCK GOOD ARE YOU FOR." Nicci screamed charging after him with both fists flying at him.
Johnny moved just in time to dodge her sudden outburst. Then grabbing her by the arms to stop her frailing they fell to the floor. Getting on top of her, it was all that Johnny could do to hold her down while she continued to fight with him." IT HURTS SO MUCH. I'M SO COLD HELP ME PLEASE." Nicci screamed
Johnny could feel her shake violently under him. As he held her tightly he assured over and over." It's going to be okay, I got you Nicci." Johnny kept repeating raising his voice to try to over power her screams.
Over hearing the commotion, Paster Daniels and two orderlys rushed in the room. With Johnny holding her down one of the orderlys was able to give her a shot to calm her down. Feeling her tiny body go limp, Johnny gently picked her up and layed her on the bed.Then taking a blanket he covered her up. Still in shock, Johnny crouched down to Nicci, stroking her lightly on the cheek he whispered." Nicci it's going to be alright I promise." Then getting up he looked at the nurse who was finishing getting Nicci's vitals. Johnny then left the room and walked to the nurses station. Seeing Paster standing there.
" Mr. Gage I'm so sorry you had to wittness that on your first visit." Daniels apologized.
" Hey don't worry about it, maybe the next one will be better. Anyway for being a small as she is she sure can move quick." Johnny said with a grin
" Yep, unlike us bigger people she has no weight to hold her back." Daniels said returning the smile
.......
Johnny then left to do the shopping he had planned to do. When Johnny walked out of the store it was already dark outside and the parking lot was nearly empty. As Johnny put his groceries in the Land Rover, he could here the distintive sounds of footsteps walking up behind him.
" Hey Pretty Boy, you didn't forget did you?" A voice from behind asked
Johnny turned around to see Knuckles and his gang." No I didn't forget." Johnny said looking Knuckles in the eyes
" Looks like we got here just in time." Shaggy said grabbing the sacks of groceries then smashing their contents on the pavement.
" Good, real good. So you going to give me back my property or am I going to have to make good on my threat." Knuckles said getting so close in Johnny's face that Johnny could smell the stale whiskey on his breath
" Now look, I told you I don't know what your talking about." Johnny said looking around for a way to escape
" WRONG ANSWER BITCH." Knuckles said striking Johnny hard in the stomach
" It seems Pretty Boy here needs to be taught a lesson about the Devils Angels." Chains said taking his turn hitting Johnny in the face.
Knuckles and Chains took turns at Johnny until a distant siren spooked them away.
...............
Slowly Johnny carried his beaten body into the safety of his house. Staggering into the bathroom, he managed to clean his wounds. It don't look to bad. Johnny thought as he looked at the bloody lip that was left behind by Knuckles. One thing's for certain, you're on your own buddy. There's no way the guys at the station would understand." Johnny said to himself as he finished wiping the last bit of blood from his face.
oooooooo
Johnny walked into the station still sore from last nights attack.
" What the hell happened to you?" Roy asked watching Johnny walk into the day room with a swollen lip.
" Nothing, I was just in the wrong place at the wrong time." Johnny lied
" Well maybe you should have it looked at." Stanley suggested he too noticed the bruises on Johnny's face.
" Come on Capt, they're just bruises it's not worth making a big deal out of." Johnny declared taking a seat at the table
" Okay if you're sure, but put this on your lip to help the swelling." Roy said handing a baggie of ice to Johnny
" Thanks partner." Johnny said just as the klaxons sounded
" Squad 51 woman down, Clairborne Shopping Center in the back parking lot, across form Darrels tire and lube shop, time out 10: 45."
" Squad 51 KMG 365," Captain Stanley responded
.............
Roy and Johnny walked up to the crowd behind the shopping center. Johnny knelt down to the woman who was gasping for air." Ma'me are you okay?" Johnny asked
" I'm fine young man, now help me up." The lady gasped while trying to get up
" Ma'me calm down, here this will help you feel much better." Roy said putting the oxygen mask over the victims face.
While trying to ignore the roar of motorcycles in the back ground, Johnny began to get her vitals.
" How's that, you feel better?" Roy asked
" Yes I feel much better, now be a dear and help me up." The lady ordered tugging on the two paramedics
Roy and Johnny looked at each other in total confusion." Ma'me we don't understand." Roy said
" I'm here for the Crazy Bobs Warehouse sale, I can't miss it." The lady announced running anxiously to the store
" Just proves my point, Never get between a sale and a woman." Roy said with a grin looking at his partner before walking to the squad.
" Thanks for the warning, I'll have to remember that." Johnny agreed. Johnny glanced over his should as he opened the passenger side door. There he saw Knuckles and his gang watching him at a distance. Knuckles was hitting his fist against his other hand while glaring at Johnny.
................
" Junior, you feel okay you seem a little out of it." Roy asked as he parked the squad into the bay. " I'm fine don't you worry about me." Johnny lied just as Captain Stanley walked up to the squad.
" Hey Pal you have a visitor. He's in the day room." Captain Stanley announced
Johnny nerviously climbed out of the squad and walked into the day room. To find Paster Daniels sitting at the table talking with Chet and Mike. Paster Daniels noticing Johnny stood up greeting him with a hand shake. Johnny could tell that this was not a social visit from the look in the Pasters eyes.
" Mr. Gage, I hope you don't mind me stopping by, I was going to call you but I thought it best if I talked to you in person. Is there some place that we can talk in private?" Paster asked
Johnny felt the blood in his viens run cold. He knew in his heart that it wasn't good knews." Sure we can use the Captain's office. If that's okay, Cap?" Seeing his Captain's answer by the way of nodding his head, Johnny and Daniels walked into the office shutting the door behind them. " How's Nicci?" Johnny asked scared of what the answer might be.
" She's okay now, The reason I stopped by was to let you know she had a pretty close call. Today during group she had a grand mal seizure. From what the nurse wrote in her chart the seizure lasted well over fifteen minutes. Luckily she didn't go into cardiac arrest like so many addicts do."
" Well how is she now." Johnny asked
" She's was resting when I left the clinic. She'll probably be a sleep for a long time. She......" Daniels started just as the Klaxons sounded
********Two days later********
After working four hours over Johnny was finally able to go home. As Johnny drove home he couldn't help but wonder where Knuckles was. Johnny knew he meant it when he said that he would keep paying him visits. Still he didn't care. He still loved Nicci and he would do anything including die for her safety. As Johnny walked up the sidewalk he saw knuckles and his goons standing in the shadow." Hey Pretty Boy have you thought about the danger yet?" Knuckles asked while taking the last sip from a bottle that was hid inside a bag.
" Nope." Johnny said while trying to walk past the gang with Devils Angels jackets on
" You do have a lot of balls, but you're one stupid son of a bitch." Knuckles said grabbing Johnny by the neck embedding his nails in flesh." Boys it seems to me that this Red Skin needs another ass whippin." Knuckles added back handing Johnny in the mouth. " You like that.? you want another?" Knuckles sneered punching Johnny in the head
" I dont' care what you do, You can kill me if you want and you still won't have Nicci." Johnny said taking every blow with a sence of honor.
" I thought you said you didn't know her, you lying to me bitch?" Knuckles said shoving Johnny to the ground then kicking him repeatedly in the ribs. " You like that? cause we will be back, see we're not ready to kill you yet, We just want to hurt you real bad." Knuckles said kicking Johnny full force in the back of the head before leaving.
Laying beaten and bloody on the sidwalk, Johnny could feel that his ribs were fractured and that he had a possible concussion. Even though he knew he needed medical attention he felt he couldn't go to the hospital. He did not want to risk anyone finding out about Nicci. He knew that they would ask questions and he didn't want to lie anymore then what he has already. With those thoughts Johnny picked his injured body up and carried himself into the house.
******** The next morning********
Johnny woke up the next morning just in time to leave for work. I'll take a shower at the station at least someone would be there in case something happens. Johnny thought as he left for the station in the same clothes he slept in.
.................
Johnny walked quietly into the locker room hoping none of the guys noticed him or his black eye. Johnny slowly took off his clothes totally exposing his battered ribs. Johnny then turned the water on and climbed in the stall letting the hot water soothe his sore body.
" I wonder where Johnny is." Chet said walking into the locker room followed by Roy.
" Beats me, with Junior there's no telling." Roy said opening up his locker door.
" I'm in the shower." Johnny announced holding his head from the pain his own voice caused.
After Roy and Chet left the room, Johnny turned off the water deciding it was safe to get out. Johnny slowly climded out of the stall and started to dress. He was so busy getting dressed that he didn't notice that Chet walked back into the room." What the hell happened to you?" Chet asked looking at Johnny's black eye. Then moving down he spotted the large bruises of Johnny's rib cage.
Johnny grabbing his head from Chet's voice he whispered." Chet just leave it alone."
Chet walked over to Johnny." No I'm not going to leave it alone." Chet protested
" Chet please just forget it would ya, Can't a guy get dressed around here? besides it's none of your business what happened."
Taking a degree of offence Chet spoke." Yeah we'll see about that, maybe it's none of my business but I bet the Captain would love to hear about it." Chet threatened with concern while preparing to yell through the apparatus bay.
" Chet please." Johnny said." Okay if you must know, I got bucked off a horse last night after work that's all. Don't tell the others okay, I don't want them to know I lost to a horse." Johnny lied
Even though Chet didn't believe Johnny's excuse he accepted it." Ah huh, well you are going to Rampart to get them looked at, Aren't ya?" Chet asked
" Yeah but later, I promise, now drop it please." Johnny pleaded leaving the room.
" Okay man whatever." Chet agreed following Johnny to the day room
...............
it was a rather slow day at the station. For Johnny it was good news because his head felt like it was coming off his shoulders." Well Junior lets go to Rampart and get some supplies." Roy suggested taking the last bite of his lunch
Johnny then stood up from the table and started walking to the bay." Yeah Gage, don't forget about your date with the doc." Chet reminded
" Shut up would ya." Johnny said spinning around in his tracks then looking around the room to see the expressions on the faces of his friends.
With concern Stanley Spoke." Is there something I should know about Pal ?"
" Nope, just a check up." Johnny lied leaving the room avoiding any more questions from his Captain
...............
Roy and Johnny walked up to the base station to see Dixie who was sitting on the stool and Dr. Brackett standing there with a cup of coffee. " Hi guys," Dixie greeted
"Hey Dix, we're going to need some supplies." Roy said setting the drug box down on the counter. " Sure help yourself." Dixie said looking at Johnny seeing his face etched with pain and blackened eyes. " Johnny you okay?" she asked
" I'm fine, Hey doc if you got a minute could I talk to you in private?" Johnny asked
" Sure, I got a moment." Brackett said leading Johnny into a treatment room
.........
"What's on your mind?" Brackett asked folding his arms up in front of his chest.
Johnny looked at Brackett." First I need to know that patient and Dr. confidentialy still holds and whatever I say doesn't leave this room." Johnny said with the look of plea
" Johnny, how can you ask that, you know it does." Brackett assured becoming increasingly concerned
With Brackett's assurence Johnny opened up his shirt to show his broken ribs." I fell off a horse last night, I don't need any exrays, we both know they're fractured. Could you just tape them up?" Johnny asked
" I can do that, Tell me something did you bump your head when you fell?" Brackett asked
" Not to speak of." Johnny lied as Brackett began tapping up his ribs.
................
The squad pulled up into the bay, As soon as they came to a stop Johnny hopped out and headed for the locket room followed by Chet." So did you get em' looked at?" Chet asked
" Yes I got them looked at now drop it please." Johnny pleaded just as the Klaxons sounded
" Stationg 51, unknown type injury at Richards Rehab Clinic. 112 West Valley, 112 West Valley, time out 1:02."
" Station 51, KMG 365."
............
As Captain Stanley and his crew walked into the six story building they were greeted by a nurse running up to them." We have a report that someone has an injury." Captain said
" Oh yes follow me." The nurse said
As soon as they stepped off the elevator they were greeted by Paster Daniels. They could hear the screams of pain coming from the residents as they fought their own addictions." Thank God you guys are here, follow me, We have her restrained in the sick room." Daniels said walking down the hall as the guys followed.
" Would you just listen to them, Why are they screaming like that." Mike asked hearing the sharp shrills through the walls.
" Oh believe me, this is mild compared to a lot of days. One thing's for sure it keeps us busy." Daniels said coming to the end of the hall.
Followed by the others, Roy and Johnny entered the sick room to find a girl no more then fifteen being restrained by straps. She was thrashing her small body violently screaming out in pain. Johnny took her vitals while Roy contacted Rampart. Suddenly without warning the young girl went into a grand mal seizure, rolling her eyes back in her head before colasping." Roy she's in Cardiac Arrest." Johnny said as he began CPR while Roy prepared to V fifferlate. " 1,2,3,4, CLEAR." Johnny announced as Roy zapped their young victim. After trying several times to restart her young heart, she still did not respond and was pronounced dead.
As Johnny looked at the girl he felt a sudden burst of saddness go right to his soul. Although it wasn't Nicci who had just died, he knew in his heart that it very well could have been. With a sigh Johnny left the room
Soon the guys were headed back down the long hall that led to the elevator." Hey Roy, you go ahead I'll catch up with ya in a few." Johnny said spotting Paster Daniels leaning against the wall with his head down. As soon as Roy was out of sight, Johnny walked up to the Paster putting his hand on his shoulder." Hey don't feel bad you tried your best." Johnny said soothingly Daniels looked up at Johnny with tears running down his face.
" Yeah I guess, it's just so hard seeing one of Gods children suffer and knowing there is nothing you can do to stop it."
" I know but you got to know we did all we could do." Johnny soothed
Wiping his eyes Daniels spoke." I know in my heart you're right but it's hard to lose so many youngsters to these drugs. If the drugs themselves don't kill them often times the withdrawl does. Their bodies get so use to the drug that when they stop using, their dependant bodies can't handle the shock."
" I know it hurts and it's not fair but if you, or I, or anyone can reach just one of them then it somehow makes it all worth while." Johnny said
" Yeah I guess I shouldn't take a loss personal but I can't help it. You see I was just like them all messed up on Cocaine. It took me finding the strength in the Lord to get clean. For some reason he saw fit that I survived. Six months later I bacame a paster. When I won the lottery I didn't know what to do, but I knew it was a gift from God. So I chose to do Gods work, I put myself through collage and beacame a Dr. and then I built this facility. That was over thirty five years ago. I am here seven days a week. I promised myself I was going to save these kids from the devil. I am a Paster first and then a Doctor." Daniels explained
" Wow thirty five years is along time. Sure some of them die, but think of all you have saved. When I first came here to visit Nicci, I didn't have much hope but listening to you I see that there is some hope for her. Tell me how is she doing?"
" Oh Yes Nicci, Well there's some improvement but she is still having troubles. I know that I originally said that she could be released in four weeks but I really dont't think she'll be ready. It might take another couple of weeks or so. On a good note she hasn't vomited any blood in about a week.. In Nicci's case she really doesn't have a problem with vomiting blood unless she gets extremely upset or agitated
" That's good, maybe I'll stop by and see her after I get out of work." Johnny said
" I think she'd like that, I dont' think she'll be able to visit with you but she'll know you are there. You two must be close because she speaks your name out loud in her sleep." Paster Daniels said
Johnny's heart filled with hope as he listened to the Paster words. With a sigh of relief Johnny said goodbye to Daniels then headed back to the squad.
...............
Turning off the engine to the squad both Roy and Johnny walked into the day room." Man that was a rough one." Johnny said sinking into a chair.
Roy dropped into a seat next to Johnny." It sure was, I can still hear the screams." Roy agreed.
Stanley shook his head trying to get the memories out of his head." Only fifteen, my God she was just a baby." Captain Stanley said thinking about his niece being the same age.
" Well it was her own fault." Chet said coldly still staring at the paper.
With Chet's harsh words, Johnny grabbed the paper out of Chet's grasp." Just want do you mean by that?" Johnny asked taking great offence at Chet's words
Looking up at Johnny, Chet grabbed the paper." Just what I said, it's her own fault nobody forced her to stick needles in her arm and get strung out on dope."
Hearing Chet's words Johnny snapped." JUST WHO THE HELL GAVE YOU THE RIGHT TO SAY THAT, WE DON'T KNOW HER AND WE'LL NEVER KNOW HER CAUSE SHE'S DEAD CHET, SHE'S DEAD."
" Gage now that will be enough." Captains Stanley ordered sternly
" Fine Capt, I just want to know, what gives Kelly here the right to judge her, and how dare him sit here and act like her death was her fault he didn't know her. none of us did."
" Okay you're right we didn't know her, And we're sorry she's dead,and no it doesn't give him the right to judge. But it doesn't give you the right to jump on him either. After all he is entitled to his oppinion the same way that you are." Stanley athoritatively speaking
Feeling his blood boil in anger at his Captain, Johnny bolted up from his chair " FINE CAP HAVE IT YOUR WAY." He shouted while throwing his arms up in the air leaving the room in a huff.
Roy stood up grabbing onto his Partners arm to stop him from leaving." Johnny now hold it, this is getting way out of hand."
Jerking away from the hold Roy had Johnny stepped back looking around the room with fire, Then looking at Roy " Roy just leave me alone, it's done and besides it don't matter you guys wouldn't understand anyway as far as Kelly's here is concerned she was nothing but white trash anyway." He said quickly leaving the room
All the guys sat there looking at each other in shock at Johnny's outburst. It was obvious to them that something was wrong. They knew that he would have never blew up the way he did expecially to the Captain. They didn't know why but they knew that the run they had tore him up inside.
Ignoring everyone in his path, Johnny walked out and got into his Land Rover as soon as B shift arrived. Seeing Roy out of the corner of his eye Johnny quickly turned over the engine then throwing it in reverse Johnny sped away leaving Roy behind.
After witnessing Johnny peeling out of the driveway the guys joined Roy." What was that all about?" Stanley asked looking down at the black marks on the pavement.
" I don't know what's bothering him Capt, maybe he just doesn't want me as a friend anymore." Roy said with a hurt look on his face
...............
Johnny walked into Nicci's room only to stop short when he didn't find her there. Panic filled every part of him as he thought about the girl who just died there a short time ago. With his thoughts running wild he bolted out of the room grabbing the first nurse he saw by the arm." Where's Nicci?" He asked fear sweeping across his face
The nurse turned and gasped out in fear. Seeing it was Johnny she quickly calmed down." Oh she's in group right now. You can wait in her room if you'd like." She offered
" Oh thank God," Johnny said letting out a sigh of relief as he turned to go back to Nicci's room
After a short time Nicci walked in the room. Without a word she walked over to the window and sat down in the chair.
As she walked by Johnny he could tell she had lost some weight. Starring out the window she spoke," Johnny what happened to your eye?" She asked almost in a whisper
" Oh I just got banged up at work." Johnny assured
" Is that really what happened?" Nicci asked in dout
" Really, don't worry about me bumps and bruises come along with the job."
For the rest of the visit, Johnny sat watching Nicci tremble as she starred out the window in complete silence. After some time had past a nurse came into the room." Excuse me Sir, but visiting hours in over." She announced sitting a dinner tray down to the side table Johnny stood up
"Nicci I'll be going now but I'll be back." Johnny said softly gently placing a hand on her shoulder making her jump." Nicci you're okay, you don't have to be afraid. You try and eat some dinner. I have tomorrow off and I'll stop by and visit with you." Johnny soothed
Johnny and the nurse left the room together as Nicci looked over the tray for any chocolate that might have been left. "Poor kid, she's so scared." The nurse said watching Nicci take the candy bar from the tray."I've never seen anything like it. What ever happened to her must have been horrible."
" How is she really doing. I mean is she getting any better?" Johnny asked
" Yes she's doing better, she still has her moments. Like yesturday in group. You see, they were doing a exercise where the staff went around the room to hug each resident. The reason for this exercise is to let the residents know that they are important. Anyway when it came to Nicci's turn she freaked. They had to give her a shot to calm her down. She doesn't trust people, and as you can see she lost some weight. When she first came here, she weighed 98 pounds now she's down to 92. Even though some weight loss is normal with the meds she's taking it still concerns me. She doesn't really eat much except for chocolate. It's like she's giving up seems the only thing she really cares about is the gold chain around her neck. We tried to get her to take it off and put it in a safe but she refused although we discourage jewelry we thought it best if we left it . Oh and lets not forget she really cares about her chocolate. That's the first thing and most often the only thing she'll eat."
With those last words Johnny let out a chuckle for he remembered how she was about her hershey bars when thery were back in school
oooooooo
Planning to spend the day with her Johnny walked into Nicci's room with a gift. He stopped short seeing she was curled in a ball sleeping. As he watched her sleep, he couldn't help but notice how beautiful she was." Half Pint, wake up I have something for you." Johnny whispered cautiously
After stirring around Nicci finally began to wake, As she opened her sleep filled eyes she saw Johnny standing there." Hi Johnny." She greeted with a yawn then sitting up
" Hey Nicci, I have a surprise for you but first close your eyes and hold out your hands." Johnny said
" You brought me something, well what is it?" Nicci asked
" If I told you it wouldn't be a surprise now would it." Johnny said cutting her his famous grin
" Johnny?" She questioned
" Just close your eyes and hold out your hands and you'll find out." Johnny said playfully
Nicci closed her eyes and held out her hands." Johnny what is it?" Nicci asked feeling the box that Johnny put in her hands
" Open your eyes and see." Johnny smiled
Nicci opened her eyes and saw a box of Hershey bars." Johnny you remembered." Nicci said looking up at him
" I sure did Half Pint." Johnny said dropping down on the bed
............
Johnny and Nicci spent the hole day reminising about the days they were together back in Montana. And before they knew it all time had slipped away from them." Excuse me Mr. Gage, visiting hours are over." The nurse said sitting the dinner tray down on the table." Let me guess she's not very hungry is she?" The nurse added with a smile seeing the empty box of candy in the trash
Johnny looked at the nurse and then at Nicci then with a grin he said " Probably not."
............
As Johnny drove home he allowed his mind to wounder. Thinking about Nicci and how good she looked. Even though he knew she had a long way to go, at least he now had hope where before he had no hope at all. Johnny was so deep in thought that he was unaware of the danger lurking all around him. Pulling into his drive way he brought his Land Rover to a stop. Without warning his door flew open. Two arms then reached inside and grabbed him, throwing him to the ground. Then picking him up the two arms slammed him with force against his Land Rover." So Pretty Boy are you ready to give back what is mine?" Knuckles asked glaring at Johnny with fire in his eyes
" No I'll never give her back. As long as I live you'll never get your hands on her." Johnny said standing his ground.
" Lood here Pretty Boy, I'm tired of playing these fucking games with you. I told you I want that whore back you understand." Knuckles said slapping Johnny in the face
Looking Knuckles in the eye Johnny declared." And I told you, you ain't never getting her."
" Oh that's real smart, Just remember I know where you live. I know where you work. Hell I even know where your partner lives." Knuckles said with a evil grin
" Now wait this is between you and me, you leave Roy out of this, he's got a family." Johnny protested
" I don't give a fuck what he gots. All I know is you better give me back what is mine. You're running out of time. You give her back or else, You got two days." Knuckles warned
" You might as well just kill me cause I'm not telling you shit." Johnny spit
Knuckles grin faded as he let Johnny go. He then walked back to his motorcycle. " Okay you heard him." Knuckles said sitting down on his bike.
Johnny stood there taking every blow that Knuckles' goons had to offer, hearing Knuckles in the back ground laugh as his gang beat Johnny to the pavement. After a few minutes, Knuckles walked over to Johnny with a metal pipe in his hand. As his laughter faded he grabbed Johnny by his bloody shirt." Lights out Pretty Boy." Knuckles said hitting Johnny with full force in the head with the pipe knocking him unconious.
.....
Holding his head Johnny groaned as he got to his feet and staggered to his Land Rover. Feeling something wet and sticky in his hair, he put his hand on his head. Looking down at his hand he saw that his palm was covered with blood." Oh man," Johnny moaned in pain. then using the Land Rover as a crutch he managed to climb inside. Feeling the warm blood trickle down the side of his face, he realized that he had to go to Rampart, He didn't know what he would tell them but he knew he had to think of something.
***** The next Morning******
" Good morning Station 51, Captain Stanley speaking." Stanley answered the phone " Hi Capt, it's me Johnny, I don't think I'll make it in today. Do you think you can get someone to fill in for me?" Johnny said from the other end of the line.
" Well Brice is always looking to pick up extra hours. I'll give him a call." Stanley said
" Okay thanks Cap." Johnny said in a broken voice
" Gage, you mind telling me what's wrong?" Captain asked worriedly hearing the pain in Johnny's voice
" I just have a touch of stomach flu." Johnny lied
" Okay then I'll see you later." Captain said After pushing the reciever button down he gave Braci a call." Okay thanks Brice I'll see you in a few." Captain said hanging up the phone.
Captain then walked out to the day room to join his men.
............
After delivering a victim at Rampart, Craig and Roy walked up to the base station to get supplies." Hey guys." Dixie greeted walking up to the counter
" Hi Dix." Roy greeted as Brice started gathering the needed supplies
" So tell me how's Johnny doing?" Dixie asked dropping down on the stool
" He's okay, I guess he just has the stomach flu." Roy assured
" Stomach flu, huh well that's funny." Dixie said with the look of confussion
" What's so funny about the stomach flu?" Roy asked
" The charge nurse on duty last night told me that he was here, She said he got several stitches in his head." Dixie explained
" Are you sure, Did she say how he got injured?" Roy asked
" No not really, I don't think he told her much just that he fell."
His face plastered with worry, Roy sat his cup down on the counter." You ready to go?" Roy asked looking at Brice
..............
Roy made his way into the day room at the station." Cap, you got a minute?" Roy asked
" Sure." Stanley said while following Roy into the office
After Roy exspained what he had learned about Johnny at Rampart Captain Stanley asked " You mean he lied to me?"
" Kind of sounds that way." Roy said looking into his Captains eyes seeing the hurt Johnny's lie caused.
Just then the Klaxons sounded
******The next morning*******
Johnny felt all eyes on him as soon as he walked into the day room. Without a sound he took a seat at the table. Roy became increasingly concerned as his eyes followed Johnny in the room. Seeing his partners face heavily bruised. And from where Roy stood at the counter, he could see the stitched up wound on his partners head
" Gage I want you in my office on the double." Captain Stanley ordered peeking his head into the day room then retreating back to the office
" Yeah Cap, you want to see me." Johnny nervously said standing before his Captain with his hands folded behind him.
Captain Stanley sat on the corner of the desk studying the man in front of him. Then choosing his words carefully he spoke. "Look I like to think that we are family here at the station. hell I spend more time here then I do at home. Now I dont' want to come off sounding corny but as the Captain I feel that I'm kind of like a father to my men. As the father I feel that it's my responsibility to look out for my crew and keep my guys safe. Do you understand?"
" Yes, yes Sir..... I understand Sir." Johnny stuttered barely loud enough to be heard
" Good now that that's out of the way, I need to know why you couldn't be honest with me and tell me the truth about going to Rampart to get stitches."
Without an explaination, Johnny hung his head in silence. He knew he couldn't tell him the truth about Nicci and Knuckles.
Stanley watched Johnny for a moment." Are you in some kind of trouble Pal?" Captain Stanley asked his face etched with worry
" No Cap, I'm not in any trouble. Why?"
" Well you've been coming into work with black eyes. Fat lips and now stitches, Oh and you weren't doing a very good job hiding your fractured ribs either. I was wondering if you wanted to tell me the reason."
" Oh there's no reason, I've just been clumsy and it's nothing to worry about." Johnny lied making no eye contact at all
Stanley not believing a word Johnny said he added." Okay, just remember the open door policy. If you have a problem I want you to feel that you can come to me, My door is always open."
I'll remember that Cap. Will that be all?" Johnny asked
" Yes that's all." Captain Stanley said watching Johnny leave the room
***************
After a busy day the guys tiredly walked into the locker room to change out of their uniforms to go home." Hey Gage, you going to change or are you just going to sit there?" Chet asked seeing Johnny sitting in his locker in his uniform.
Johnny knew that if he took off his shirt he would be bomb barted with questions from Roy about his bruises. Although he knew that Roy was only trying to be a good friend, still Johnny didn't want to deal with it." Yes I'm going to change, I'm just resting is all." Johnny said
" Hey, you are still coming to the cook out tomorrow? Joanne is out of town helping her sister care for her husband after he had surgery and she took the kids with her. She wont be back for about a month. I figure it's a good time for us to spend a little bit of personal time together just the guys. No wives and no kids." Roy said
" No, I think I better stay home." Johnny said turning down the invite thinking of his plan to see Nicci.
" Are you sure?" Roy said with a disappointed look hearing the one person he hoped would be there turned him down
Johnny sat there for a moment and remembered what the Paster said about field trips." Can I bring a friend?" Johnny asked
" Sure, more the merrier." Roy said feeling his spirits lifting
" Good I'll try to make it, but if I don't I'll see you Monday." Johnny said thinking that Nicci might not get permission to go. Either way he planned to spend the day with her.
.............
Seeing that Nicci wasn't in her room, Johnny decided to head to the nurses station." Hello Mr. Gage it's good to see you again." Daniels greeted exstending his hand walking up to Johnny.
" Hi, how's Nicci?" Johnny asked returning the hand shake.
" She's improved. She hasn't vomited for about three days where as before it was a daily accurence. And although weight loss is exspected, she's lost a little more weight then what I like to see. Fortunately she should gain it back over a period of time. Right now she's out on the patio getting some fresh air."
" Well how much does she weigh now the last I knew she weighed 92 pounds that was a week ago." Johnny said worriedly
" When we checked yesturday morning, she weighed 89 pounds. I don't thinks she really cares about the food we have to offer." Daniels explained
" Well do you think it'll be okay if I took her out to a cook out today?" Johnny asked hopefully
" Well since you're a paramedic I see no reason she couldn't go. Just be aware that any situation could set her off and it doesn't have to be anything major. This is her first time out and it could be a little overwhelming and scary for her. If she does have trouble call me or bring her back here as soon as you can. And since you're certified, I'll go ahead and authorize you to administer 50mlgs of Cloridine just in case she becomes violent." Daniels explained handing Johnny a vile and syringe.
Johnny put the vile and syringe in his shirt pocket " Okay thanks, well I'll talk to you later. I'll worry about signing her out after I see if she wants to go." Johnny said Walking out to the patio,
Johnny had to stop and laugh as he watched Nicci fight the wind that blew through her long blonde hair. With a grin Johnny walked up to her." Hey Nicci you're looking good." Johnny said making her jump." I'm sorry I didn't mean to startle you." sitting in a chair next to her.
" It's okay I know you didn't mean to." Nicci said looking at Johnny, right away noticing Johnny's black eye." What happened to your eye?" Nicci asked
" Oh I went to a party the other night and things got a little out of hand." Johnny lied
" It looks bad and it looks pretty sore." Nicci said worriedly
" It doesn't hurt that bad, besides if you think this looks bad you should see the other guy." Johnny lied with a fake grin trying hard to convince Nicci
Brushing her hair out of her eyes, Nicci looked up at the sky." Have you ever seen such a pretty blue? It's so bright." Nicci said taking a deep breath smelling the sweet fragrance of the lilac bushes.
" Yeah I've seen a prettier blue." Johnny flirted looking into Nicci's clear blue eyes with a smile." Nicci I want to take you out of here for a while, that is if you want to go."
" Oh I dont' know Johnny, what do you have in mind?"
" I was thinking you might enjoy a cook out." Johnny said
Nicci sat and thought about Johnny's plans." I think I'd like that if you think it'll be okay." Nicci said nervously
" Nicci it'll be okay, I promise, don't worry." Johnny assured walking her back inside. Johnny and Nicci then made their way to the nurses station.
" I guess you two are ready to go, I wish you luck. Oh and one more thing make sure the ID bracelets stay on." Daniels said handing Johnny the sign out sheet.
" No problem." Johnny said while scribbling his name down on the paper.
...............
Johnny came to a stop in front of Roy's house to find that his friends were already there. Cutting a glance over to Nicci he became alarmed to find her shaking." Nicci if you don't want to do this we can leave right now. I'm not going to force you to do anything you're not ready to do." Johnny soothed
Without making eye contact Nicci spoke." Johnny it's not that I don't want to cause I do. It's just that I'm........ I'm scared Johnny. I don't want them to know about me. They'll see my scars and the bracelets and they'll......" Nicci stopped placing her hand over her eyes to hide the tears that had formed.
" You're right, they will see your track marks and the bracelets but Nicci it'll be okay, they're good people. You have to trust me on that." Johnny assured
Looking up at Johnny with tears in her eyes she asked " Why are you being nice to me?"
" Because I love you Nicci." Johnny said softly stroking her dampened cheek making her jump back
Without another word Johnny and Nicci walked out to the back yard to find the party in full swing. Shutting the gate behind them Johnny was greeted by the Captain. " Hey Pal, I'm glad you decided to join us." Stanley said walking up to Johnny with a beer in his hand. " Capt, guys there's someone I want you to meet." Johnny announced as Nicci hid behind him trying desprately not to be seen.
As soon as Johnny spoke his friends from the station gathered around." Guys I want you to meet Nicci Rogers." Johnny said taking Nicci by the hand pulling her out from behind him.
" Hi Nicci, I'm Captain Stanley." Stanley said with pride extending his hand out.
Nicci looked up at Stanley with fear sweeping through her eyes. " Johnny?" She gasped bolting backwards
" Nicci you're okay, no one's going to hurt you." Johnny assured
With Johnny words, Captain Stanley withdrew his hand. It was obvious to him that his friendly gesture had frightened her. Nicci looked up at Johnny and then the crowd standing in front of her as she began to shake." I'm sorry." She whispered hanging her head down towards the ground.
Johnny placed a finger on her chin gently lifting up her head. " Half Pint, you didn't do anything wrong. But please give them a chance." Johnny pleaded looking into her eyes
Without a responce, Nicci looked over to the gate then at the men standing in front of her." Nicci this is my Captain, Hank Stanley. This is our engineer Mike Stoker. These two guys are Chet Kelly and Marco Lopez and this is my partner and best friend Roy DeSoto." Johnny introduced
Each of the guys gave a friendly hello being careful not to get to close. They didn't want to have her react to them the same way she did to their Captain.
Soon each of them retreated back to the table. Seeing that Nicci was having difficulty, Johnny walked her over to a chair away from his friends. "Here you sit down here and I'll get up something to drink okay Half Pint." Johnny said softly.
Johnny walked over to the table where the others were. Then taking two sodas out of the cooler, he started to walk back to Nicci. Only to be stopped by Chet." So Gage, what's her story?"
" She don't have any stories, now excuse me." Johnny said trying to avoid the question
" Well who is she then?" Marco asked
" I just told you who she was Marco, Now please." Johnny pleaded
As for Captain Stanley his eyes were fixed on Nicci " I don't know but she looks extremely under weight to me, Is she sick?" He asked looking back at Johnny
" No she's not sick, and yes she is a little under weight." Johnny said
" Well how much does she weigh?" Roy asked
" About 90 pounds." Johnny said gettin fustrated by their questions.
" Well if she's not sick then why the bracelets and why is she wearing clothes that look like a patient uniform?" Chet asked
" Look I didn't come here to get the third degree or to play twenty questions." Johnny said putting a stop to the questions
" No one's giving you the third degree Junior. we're just curious that's all. You have to admit we don't normally see a human skeleton walking around." Roy said
" I know Roy and I'm sorry. She's just a friend, and all I ask is that you guys be nice to her. If this is to much to ask then we'll leave right now. Cause I'm not going to put her through that." Johnny said sitting the sodas down on the table "
"Johnny you should know us by now, of course we'll be nice. What do you think we are monsters?" Roy assured
" Good cause the last thing she needs is to be judged." Johnny concluded looking at Chet.
Finally everyone was seated at the table each taking their turn glancing at Nicci. When Roy took his turn, he noticed the needle marks on her arms. It was then clear to him what Johnny meant when he said not to judge and why she wore the bracelets and uniform.
" Nicci aren't you going to eat?" Johnny asked watching her pick at the food in front of her.
Nicci getting an uneasy feeling in her stomach she spoke softly " I'm not very hungry." Then looking at Roy she saw him starring at her arm. Standing up from the table she spoke in a desperate plea. " Johnny I need to leave."
" Nicci are you okay? What's wrong?" Johnny asked also standing up as the others looked on.
" I just need to leave." Nicci said hanging her head then walking over to the gate.
Johnny walked over to Nicci taking her be the arm." We can leave right now if that's what you want. but do you want to tell me why."
" I don't want to talk about it. I just want to go home." Nicci said with tears welling up inside her
" Come here. It's okay we can leave." Johnny soothed taking her in his arms to try to calm her. Feeling sick , Nicci pulled away from him.
Johnny could tell by the look on her face that something was terribly wrong. Her face had paled and she was shaking uncontrolable. " Nicci?" Johnny questioned
" Johnny I don't feel so good." She whimpered putting her hand over her mouth. Then without any warning she bolted over to the row of trash cans with Johnny at her side. Then watching in horror, Johnny supported her head while she vomited " No dont' hurt me." Nicci cried out in fear, pushing his hand away.
Having witnessed the whole scene, Roy and the Captain rushed over to try to help. They stopped short what they noticed that she was throwing up blood." Johnny what's wrong with her should I call an ambulance?" Roy wanted to know walking up closer
" No you don't have to call, nothing's wrong Roy." Johnny assured
" I'm sorry Johnny. I didn't mean to." Nicci cried as her vomiting came to a end
" Shhhh Nicci, you didn't do anything wrong." Johnny soothed " Here lets go inside, you can wash up then I'll take you back."
.........
Returning to the back yard, Johnny walked Nicci over to the gate." I'll be with you in a minute, I want to go tell them goodbye okay."
Johnny walked over to the table where his friends were still talking about what they had witnessed." I'm going to take her back now."
Stanley looking over to Nicci seeing that she was still shaking." Is she going to be alright?" Why was she throwing up blood?" He wanted to know
" It's just something she does." Johnny said." I'll see you guys Monday okay."
..............
In silence, Johnny drove her back to the clinic. Catching a side glimsp, he could see she was still shaking. He didn't know what it was that upset her, but it was enough to make her vomit. Pulling up to the clinic, he turned off the engine." Nicci, what happened back there? You want to talk about it?" Johnny spoke softly
Looking down at the ground Nicci spoke." Your partner knows Johnny, he was starring at my arms. He didn't want me there."
" Oh Nicci, I dont' think he meant anything by it. Roy is a good person. If he wasn' t he wouldn't be a friend."
" Maybe your right, but I'm so tired of feeling that no matter where I go, I'm not wanted. Seems the only time someone ever wanted me is when I was turning a trick. " Nicci cried wiping her tears." Oh sure I know the only thing they wanted was a piece of ass but at least they wanted me. " Nicci cried." Sometimes I even got lucky and they told me they loved me. I know they didn't mean it but it sure felt good to hear."
" I'm so sorry." Johnny said soothingly allowing her let go of some of the hurt.
" It's not you fault Johnny it's mine. I'm the one who fucked my life up, not you. I know in my heart that a person plays the cards that life has given them. But do you have any idea how many times I've thought about folding my hand and giving up."
Johnny fought his tears as he listened to the pain she had felt for so long. He could not bare the thought of her taking her life but he knew that she was serious. With those thoughts, he pulled her in his arms and held her close as she wept." Oh Nicci I want you so much. and I love you." Johnny whispered lovingly in her ear.
" Johnny dont' say you love me cause I can't love you back and how can you possibly want something like me, I'm just not worth it. " Nicci cried
" Oh Nicci don't say that, you were worth everything to me then and still are. I never once stopped loving you." Johnny soothed allowing her to let go a portion of the pain she hab bottled up.
After a time Johnny looked down to see Nicci had fallen asleep. Johnny gently took her in his arms and carried her back to her room. Just before leaving Johnny bent over and kissed her goodbye.
.......Two days later........
As Johnny sat in the parking lot at the station he wondered how he was going to talk to Roy and the others about Nicci. He knew they would ask questions, questions he didn't know how to answer. He knew he couldn't tell them everything but he had to tell them something because of the fact they would probably be seeing her again.
......
As Roy watched Johnny walk into the day room he could see the worry etched on his face." You okay Junior?" Roy asked
" Yeah I'm okay." Johnny answered sinking into a chair." I guess I should apologize for Saturday."
" No problem I think I understand. How's Nicci?" Roy asked sitting a cup of coffee in front of Johnny.
" I dont' know Roy, I just don't know. She had a real rough weekend." Johnny said fighting his tears
" Can you level with me and tell me why she wanted to leave?" Roy asked
Johnny looked up at his partner." It's because of you Roy. She didn't think you wanted her there. She knew you saw her arms "
" I'm Sorry, but I didn't mean to make her feel that she wasn't welcome."
"I think we all saw her arms, She's an addict isn't she?" Chet said
" Don't say it like that." Johnny pleaded looking at Chet with a glare
" Well she is." Chet said
" Never mind, I should have known how you guys react." Johnny said getting up from the table in a huff.
" Johnny please sit down. That is only Chets oppinion not ours. I like to think that we are caring people, after all we pull people out of fires everyday and drug addition is really no differant. One can kill just as easy as the other." Roy said
With those words, Johnny sat back down at the table starring down into his coffee.
Seeing Johnny stare into his coffee Captain Stanley spoke ." You can talk to us Pal, like I said before we're all family here, whatever you tell us wont leave this room."
" What can I say Capt, I guess Chet's right she is an addict and she knows she's made mistakes in her life that she regrets. But the last thing she needs is to be looked down on. What she needs is people to accept her for who she is and not hold what she's done against her."
" Johnny I didn't mean to look down on her. I just can't understand how she can hurt herself like that." Chet said
" Chet you have to understand, people that get strung out look at it as a way to stop their hurt. Every single addict out there has their own pain and Nicci is no exception." Johnny said. " Now I know I told you guys that she wasn't sick, but she is, more then we know. I've come so close to losing her that it scared the hell out of me. I want to help but there's nothing I can do, It's up to her and from what she said Saturday I don't know she's strong enough mentally to help herself."
" Why what did she say?" Mike asked
" She said somthing about people playing the cards their dealt with in life and that she thought about folding her cards and giving up." Johnny said trying to be strong
" Junior we know she's sick, we saw her throwing up blood. From what you just said she already has given up. Now I dont care how she got that way. That's not really important because it's in the past. We can see that you are concerned and I think I speak for everyone when I say we're here for you and her." Roy soothed
Placing a hand on Johnny's shoulder Captain Stanley spoke." Roy's right we are your friends and we will be there if you need us."
" Thanks Guys."
********
Morning Mr. Gage." Paster Daniels greeted seeing Johnny walking up to the counter
" Good morning, I hope you dont' mind me coming here so early. I have to work tonight and I wanted to stop by and see Nicci. " Johnny explained
" Oh no I don't mind she needs you right now." Paster Daniels said with a long and troubed face.
" Why what happened?" Johnny asked
" Well one of her friends on the street was killed last night."Daniels said with a sigh
" What? how? Who was it?" Johnny wanted to know
" From what I gather she was a prostitute. I think they said her street name was Bambi and apparently she was beat up and stabbed to death by one of her customers" Daniels explained
" How is Nicci taking it?" he asked feeling a bolt of saddness wash over him. He knew that if it wasn't for Bambi, Nicci wouldn't have left the streets.
" I don't know, I think she's still in shock. She hasn't showed any emotions. And she won't talk to any of the counselors. If you have some time, maybe you can talk to her."
" I'll certainly do what I can. Where is she now?" Johnny asked
" She's out on the patio."
..............
Johnny spotted Nicci sitting on the ground next to the building. She had her knees drawn to her chest and had her head buried in her hands. The closer Johnny got to her he could here her soft whimpers." Nicci I'm so sorry, Is there anything I can do?" Johnny soothed sitting down next to her.
" No." Nicci sobbed trying hard to cover up her tears.
" Nicci it's okay, don't be afraid to cry. Bambi was a very good friend and you shouldn't be ashamed to show your feelings."
Johnny soothed
Nicci looked up to Johnny with tear filled eyes." Oh Johnny it's all my fault she's dead, the guy that killed her was one of my customers. If I wouldn't have left she would still be alive." she cried
" Shhhh, don't blame yourself, it's not your fault Nicci. You didn't put that knife in his hand. He's the one to blame. not you or her or anyone else." Johnny soothed
" Maybe, it's just that she was my best friend hell she was more like a sister then a friend. We use to talk about everything. including our Prince Charmings. Johnny her Prince never came." Nicci stooped to sob at her memory." Johnny I know how she ended up on the street, her step dad molested her and when she went to her mother and told her what was going on her mother didn't believe her. Her mother didn't do anything to stop it. He knew that he was getting away with it so one night he went to far and raped her. She was only thirteen years old." Nicci whimpered hanging her head.
Feeling her pain, Johnny place his loving arms around her and without any hesitation she allowed herself to fall deeper into his embrace. Johnny then found himself grieving over the loss as well." I want so much to go to her funeral tomorrow."
" I know you do, and you need to go. I'll see what I can do okay." Johnny said
" You will?" Nicci said looking up at Johnny
" You bet I will." Johnny promised then peeking at his watch he realized it was time for him to leave." Nicci I have to go to work now." Johnny said. Then noticing the nurse walk up with her breakfast tray. " Half Pint you eat your breakfast and I'll be back in the morning."
..........
Roy as well as the others could see the sad and troubled face on Johnny as soon as he walked into the day room. As Roy looked closer he learned that his partner had been crying." Junior, Is something wrong with Nicci?" He asked worriedly
" What Nicci oh no, she's okay, it's just that one of her friends was killed last night. Her and Nicci were pretty close and well she's taking it rather hard." Johnny explained
Captain then headed to the office and then returned fifteen minutes later." Gage go on get out of here." Captain Stanley ordered
" Capt?" Johnny questioned
" You heard me, beat it. I just called Brice and he's willing to come in and cover for you since he was off yesturday and off today. I figure Nicci needs you a lot more then we do."
Johnny stood up from the table with the Captain's words still bouncing inside his head." Capt. I don't know what to say." He said walking over to Stanley
" Don't say anything just go and spend the day with Nicci. And tell her that the rest of us is thinking about her." Captain said with a warm and understanding smile.
Johnny didn't know what to think but he knew his Captain was right. Nicci needed him and he wasn't going to let her down.
" Okay Cap thanks." He said with a grin. Without changing his clothes Johnny left the station to go to his Nicci
...............
" Nicci." Johnny whispered seeing that she was laying on her bed resting her eyes
Nicci raised up seeing Johnny standing there in his uniform." Johnny what are you doing here? I thought you had to work." Nicci asked
" I did but plans change. Anyway we can spend the whole day together. And tomorrow we are going to that funeral. But first we need to call and find out where it's going to be and what time.
Nicci feeling a sudden burst of happiness jumped up and gave Johnny a hug." Oh Jhonny do you mean it? I can really go?" Nicci said
" You bet I mean it." Johnny said entrapping Nicci in his arms picking her up off the ground.
" Excuse me but it's time for Nicci's group." Daniels interupted.
" Okay, you'll wait for me Johnny?" Nicci asked with a smile
" Yes Half Pint, I'll wait right here." Johnny assured.
........... One hour later.....
Nicci returned to her room to find Johnny sitting in a chair reading a magazine. " Hey Johnny do you think it'll be okay if I went back to my apartment and get some money out of my stash so that I can buy Bambi some flowers?"
" Oh Nicci I don't know it could be dangerous and it could be hard for you. " Johnny hesitated Johnny thought it over in his head and then agreed. " Okay we can do this but I want to call a couple of friends first just to make sure nothing happens."
...........
Leaving a police unit parked outside, Johnny followed Nicci into the two story apartment house. Nicci stopped in front of the door to her tiny apartment." Sorry it's not the Hilton." Nicci apologized as she pushed the door open. " I'll only be a sec."
She said disappearing into the bathroom
While Johnny waited he looked around the tiny shell of a room. It was a dark and dreary place the sun light beaming through the broken dirty window being the only sourse of light. In the corner of the room rested a table cluttered with a combination of beer and whiskey bottles. As he walked closer to the table he noticed a tray with about 3 or 4 rocks of cocaine and a small amount of grass. Shaking his head he walked back to the middle of the room. Suddenly a crash coming from the bathroom brought him back to reality. Thinking the worst, Johnny pushed open the door." Nicci are you okay?" Johnny asked
" Yeah I'm okay, I just dropped the toilet tank lid. See I was getting my stash and the lid slipped out of my hands." She said walking out of the bathroom with a make up pouch and a small plastic bag full of money.
" Okay if your sure." Johnny said
" Yeah I'm sure, I just have to grab something to wear to the funeral then I'll be ready to go." Nicci said picking up a black mini skirt and tank top and a pair of black high heals.
........
Johnny and Nicci were soon walking out on the porch to leave." Hey Johnny wait a sec." Nicci said as she stopped to talk to a black elderly man sitting on a rocking chair.
With a nod of his head, Johnny walked over to the Land Rover and climbed in. As Johnny watched Nicci from a distance he could see that she cared for the man very much. The way she fluffed his pillow and the way she smiled at him when they hugged goodbye. Nicci then hopped into the passengers side." Her funeral is at the Maple Hill Cemetary at 10:00 in the morning." She announced tossing her clothes on the matress in the back.
*****The next morning*********
Johnny walked into Nicci's room stopping short as he noticed her slim figure underneath the black cloth." You look very nice." Johnny said walking up to her
" Thanks, you don't look to bad yourself." Nicci said seeing that he was dressed in a suit and tie.
..............
Johnny rolled to a stop in front of the grave. Looking at his watch he asked." We didn't miss it, did we?" Seeing that there were only three people standing at the sight.
" No we didn't miss it, this is how it is Johnny." As soon as they walked up to the proceedings they were greeted by two of Nicci's groupies." Hey what's up." Nicci greeted her friends giving each of them a hug." There's someone I want you to meet. Tricks, Candy this is Johnny." Nicci introduced
" Hi." Johnny said shaking each of their hands
" Boy he's a cute one Nicci. So your Nicci's Prince Charming, Bambi told us about you." Tricks said
Before Johnny had the chance to respond the proceedings were underway. Almost as quickly as they started ther were done. Johnny was amazed to learn that the whole funeral lasted only Ten minutes. " Johnny what's wrong?" Nicci asked
" Nothing, I'm just surprised that it went so quickly. I mean we just got here." Johnny said
" This is how it is Johnny. This is how white trash gets buried." Nicci said as her eyes began to tear." That's what we are Johnny white trash and that's all we will ever be." She whimpered
Taking her in his arms Johnny pulled her close while she wept." Shhhhhh there there it's okay Nicci let it out." Johnny soothed
As Nicci stood there being captured by his strong embrace, she didn't know what to think. She didn't know what she was feeling but she knew it wasn't fear.
********
" Morning." Paster Daniels greeted
" Good morning, Where's Nicci?" Johnny asked
" Where else but the patio."
" How is she doing?"
" She's doing really good actually I'm surprised she's doing as well as she is with losing her friend and all. I thought she would have taken it a lot harder then what she did. I think she's ready for the next step." Daniels said with pride.
"Oh Yeah, what next step?"
" I think she's ready to go to the halfway house. Probably in about three days or so."
"Oh yeah that's great news." Johnny said before leaving to go see Nicci
............
Johnny walked out to the patio to find Nicci sitting at a picnic table." Hey Half Pint, How ya doing?" Johnny asked walking up to her.
" Hi Johnny." She said shielding her eyes from the morning sunlight." I take it you have to work today?"
" Yeah a whole forty eight hours, but I thought I would stop in and say hi." Johnny said sitting down next to her.
" I'm glad you did." Nicci smiled." You know Paster Daniels said I'll be able to leave here in about three days."
" I know it's great. You've come such a long way and I want you to know I'm very proud of you." Seeing the nurse walking up with a breakfast tray, Johnny realized it was time to go." Half Pint, I got to be going you eat your breakfast and I'll see you later." Johnny urged standing up from the table.
Looking down at the tray then at Johnny she confessed." Johnny I'm not hungry."
" Maybe you just need the right incentive." Johnny said taking out a Hershey bar from his uniform jacket
" Oh yeah," Nicci said reaching for the bar.
" Hold on Half Pint, first you have to eat your breakfast." Johnny said grinning as he handed the candy bar to the nurse.
" Oh Johnny that is so un fair." Nicci protested
" Well that's the deal, you eat your breakfast then you can have your precious candy bar."
" Well since you put it that way, I'll try. But it's still not fair." Nicci said giving up the fight.
" That's my Half Pint." Johnny said reaching over and kissing her on the forehead before leaving
............
As Johnny drove to the station it accured to him that she didn't pull away from him when he kissed her. Is she finally trusting him? In any case he was so proud of her she was doing so well. He was so wrapped up in his thoughts that he didn't see Knuckles and his goons three car lenghs behind him. With out a warning a loud bang came from the front drivers side followed by a steady <ca thunk ca thunk> Oh great now what a flat, of all things. Johnny cursed as he pulled into a empty parking lot. Johnny quickly got out and took the spare off the hood, then went around to the back to get the four way and jack out. He was so busy hurrying to change the tire that he was unaware that Knuckles and his gang had surrounded him
" Hey Pretty Boy times up." Knuckles announced putting a firm hand on Johnny's shoulder making him jump.
" What the hell do you want?" Johnny snapped not taking his attention off changing the tire.
" Oh you know what I want, I want that slutty little bitch back." Knuckles demanded
Hearing the name Knuckles called her made Johnny's blood boil. Johnny then stood up and turned around to face Knuckles while grasping the four way so tight that his knuckles were turning white." Yeah well don't hold your breath, you don't deserve her."
" What the fuck you think I'm doing playing kid games?" Knuckles spit grabbing Johnny by his uniform shirt.
" No and I'm not playing either, You're never getting your slimy hands on her." Johnny said with conviction
" I can tear you apart right now. You don't seem to understand that the bitch is mine and I will get her back and when I do I'm going to teach that whore a lesson she'll never forget even if I have to kill her." Knuckles said slamming Johnny hard against the Land Rover.
" YOU'LL NEVER GET HER BACK." Johnny yelled feeling himself exploding inside.
" Fine you can have the bitch, Maybe I'll just take your partner's wife instead. Yeah that's it I'll make Mrs. Joanne DeSoto my new bitch."
With fire sweeping through Johnny snapped." YOU SON OF A BITCH, THIS IS BETWEEN YOU AND ME, DON'T EVEN THINK ABOUT LAYING YOUR HANDS ON JO." He yelled striking Knuckles in the head with the four way dropping him to the ground.
" I OUGHT TO KILL YOU FOR THAT." Knuckles screamed charging at Johnny knocking him to the ground then seeing a police car in the distance Knuckles changed his mind about the beating
" What's wrong loser you scared?" Johnny asked with a grin picking himself up only to have Knuckles kick him in the face giving him a bloody nose.
Grabbing a hand full of Johnny's hair, Knuckles jerked his head back far enough to where Johnny felt his neck crack." Listen here bitch you've costed me enough. The way I look at it is you owe me money. Money that my whore would've made me. Now you either give her back to me or I'll take it out of your ass." Knuckles threatened before leaving
...............
" What the hell happened to you?" Roy asked seeing Johnny walk into the locker room with a bloody nose. " Oh nothing." Johnny said
" Nothing, it looks like a whole lot of nothing to me. Here let me look at it." Roy said
" Roy there's nothing to see, it's just a bloody nose. What are you going to do put a turnicate on it?" Johnny protested pulling away from his partner
Taking offence of his partners remark." No, I just want to check it out cause I'm concerned. There is no reason to get snippy." Roy said coming to his deffence
" I know Roy and I'm sorry but it's just a bloody nose people get them all the time." Johnny apologized " Roy." Johnny spoke up." When is Jo and the kids coming back." Johnny asked trying to not look worried
" Well she called last night and said it would be at least three maybe four more weeks before she feels good about leaving. She wants to make sure her brother in law is back on his feet before she comes back." Roy said." Why?"
" Oh no reason just wondered." Johnny said relieved of the answer. He knew that Jo was safe with her sister up north. For that reason he felt he should spare Roy of the worry and not tell him about Knuckles or his threat.
********
" Morning." Johnny greeted walking into the day room
" Good morning, you look like you're in a good mood." Roy said seeing his partner smile for the first time in weeks
" Oh I am in a good mood." Johnny said
" And how's Nicci doing?" Captain Stanley asked
" Oh she's doing great Cap. She'll be discharged in a couple days." Johnny said with a smile
" Well that's good to hear. I hope things work out for her."
" Thanks Cap." Johnny said just as the Klaxons sounded.
" Station 51, woman injured Richards rehab Clinic. 112 Valley, time out 10:34."
" Station 51 KMG 365." Captain Stanley responded
.................
Captain Stanley and his crew walked into the six story building to find Paster Daniels standing waiting for their arrival." We got a call about someone being injured." Stanley announced
" Yes right this way." Daniels said leading the Captain and his men up to the sixth floor. While the others stood in the doorway Roy and Johnny walked into the sick room to find a woman sitting on the bed with a bloody lip and a bruised eye.
" Ma'me are you okay?" Roy asked
" Yes I'm fine, I told them not to call." The nurxe insisted looking at Johnny
" Well how did this happen?" Johnny asked
" One of our residents was having a bad trip and I didn't move quick enough." She explained." Really I'm okay you guys don't need to tend to me." She assured
" Lets just check you out to make sure, as long as we're here anyway." Roy said bending down at the nurses side. " You seem to be okay but you should go to the hospital and get looked at by a doctor." Roy suggested
" I will but after I get off duty." The nurse assured
" Station 51 available at scene." Stanley said into the Handy Talkie.
As Johnny and the rest of them left the room, Johnny spotted Nicci standing in the hall." Hey Nicci." Johnny greeted walking up to her followed by his friends
" Hi." Nicci said backing up from the men in front of her.
Johnny became alarmed when he saw that Nicci was beginning to tremble for the first time in days." Nicci are you alright?" Johnny asked
" I'm fine really it's just that well......" Nicci stopped looking at the others then turning to walk away.
Walking up to her and taking her by the arm, his heart fell when he felt her flinch at his touch." Nicci you don't have to be afraid of them, they save lives everyday. And if it wasn't for my Captain, I wouldn't have been able to spend the day with you when Bambi was killed. Nicci, they give so much of themselves to the world they can't be all that scary. What do you say, would you give them a chance for me? I wont let them hurt you." Johnny soothed
Without eye contact she slowly and cauiously walked back over to the others" Hi I'm Nicci." She said barely audible
Taking turns each of them said hi. Being careful not to spook the already frightened girl. It was obvious she was terrified of them and none of them knew why. Then it was Stanley's turn." Hi Nicci I'm Captain Stanley." He greeted with a smile slowly exstending his hand.
Nicci looked up to the Captain's face and started shaking uncontrolably. He was much scarier then the others. His eyes were shady and untrusting. His face looked suspiciously cold. She was terrified of him. But Johnny said that he was okay, and I trust Johnny she thought to herself. Very slowly and with caution she extended her trembleing hand to Captain Stanley. Suddenly a loud crash from the end of the hall sent her into panic." I'M SORRY DON'T HIT, I DIDN'T MEAN TO." She gasped bringing her arms up to shield her while bolting back in complete terror.
Johnny craddled her in his arms to stop her from shaking." Shhhhhh Half Pint no one's going to hit you, Shhhhhh." Johnny soothed
" NO HE'S GOING TO HURT ME AGAIN." She sobbed. Wittnessing the ordeal Paster Daniels walked up. " Mr. Gage, lets get her to her room. " He said getting on the other side of the terrified girl.
Taking two steps Nicci stopped, " Johnny." She whimpered placing her hand over her mouth as she started to vomit blood.
Steading her head Johnny soothed her " Shhhhh it's okay Nicci."
As three nurses walked up to lend a hand. " I'm sorry." Nicci whimpered as her vomiting came to a stop.
" It's okay Half Pint, come on I'll help you to your room." Johnny soothed as he guided her down the hall.
Stroking her head as she dozed off, Johnny let out a sigh, " Oh Nicci." He whispered as tears streamed down his face.
"Johnny,we have to go" Roy whispered peeking in the doorway while watching Nicci as she continnued to tremble in her slumber."
" Okay." Johnny whispered. then leaning down he gave Nicci a kiss on the head. " I love you Half Pint, I'll be back as soon as I can."
.............
Returning one hour later The men at station 51 watched as Johnny walked over to the phone." Hi this is Mr. Gage, I'm calling to see how Nicci's doing..... I see was it bad.........Oh man.... Well tell her I'll be there as soon as I can, and tell her that I love her." Johnny said swallowing his tears as he hung up the phone.
" How is she?" Roy asked seeing the worry in his partners face
" I don't know, she had a nightmare and then vomited more blood ." Johnny whispered dropping in a chair
" Gage I don't understand why did she react that way to me, She was terrified that I was going to hit her." Stanley asked as the memory was still fresh in his mind.
" I don't know Cap, Maybe because you are the Captain and you are authority." Johnny said." She don't like cops and maybe to her you look like one."
" Well do you think she'll make it out in the world?" Chet asked, Seeing that everyone was looking at him he added." What, I just want to know that's all. I mean she's so scared, you have to wonder how she's going to deal with the outside world."
" You have to admit that's a fair question." Roy said in Chet's deffence.
Understanding that his friends were only being concerned he answered" I really can't say how she'll be."
" I just want to know what happened to her to make her so scared." Marco said
" I know and I wished I could tell you Marco, but I don't think you guys would understand." Johnny said
" You'll never know unless you give us a try. What'll you say Pal." Stanley said
With some hesitation Johnny spoke." There's not much to say. Nicci and I were going together in High School back in Montana. Her dad hated me and called me a good for nothing half breed. Everyday he would remind her that he didn't approve of us. Her dad made her move to Flordia, I never knew what happened or why she left. I never saw her again until the night we got the call on the strip about a month and a half ago." Johnny said
" You mean she was the victim?" Roy asked
" Yeah, I didn't know it until I got into the ambulance and that's when I reconized her."
" Do you know why she moved to Flordia." Stanley asked
" I do now. Her dad made her move when he found out I got her pregnant. He couldn't handle his little girl getting knocked up by a Half Breed. I didn't even know whe was pregnant she never got the chance to tell me." Johnny said sadly missing his son he never knew.
" You mean you two have a baby together?" Roy asked looking over at Johnny in shock. "
" No Roy, she miscarried." Johnny said hanging his head before continuing." After she lost the baby she ran away back to Montana and then kept running when she found that out I had moved. That's when she ended up on the streets of New York City. She was barely sixteen years old and very alone .You know the streets can be a very cruel place for a kid. . She was cold and hungry. Oh she tried to get jobs but nobody would give her a chance because of her age. So she did the only thing she could to support herself. You guys know what girls on the street have to do to get a meal. It wasn't long before she was getting strung out on drugs. She was getting high so that she wouldn't feel the pain of what she was doing just to surrive living on the streets." Johnny said in a whisper.
Mike placed his hand on Johnny's shoulder." Yeah but she's going to be okay now, She's getting clean and she's not on the streets anymore." He said soothingly.
" Yeah she is but guys you have to understand that people's told her that she was no good so many times she believes it. I know she's probably been beat bloody more times then what can be counted. That's why she's so frightened. Johnny sighed.
***************
After a long and busy night at the station, Johnny decided it was best to go home and rest before he went to see Nicci. Who know's maybe I can take her out of that place for a while. Johnny thought as he walked into the house. Johnny sat on the couch and drifted off to sleep. When he woke it was half past two. Johnny went into the bathroom to get ready to go see Nicci. "Looks like rain, I better grab an extra jacket just in case. " He thought to himself before leaving
.....
Johnny walked into Nicci's room. " Hey Half Pint." He said sitting next to her on the bed
Nicci looked at Johnny with a smile ." Hi Johnny."
" Looks like you're feeling better today." Johnny noticed
" Yeah I am." Nicci said
" Good, you feel like leaving for a while?" Johnny asked
" Sure, what do you have in mind?" " Oh I thought we would cruize around for a while just for a change of scerery."
"Sounds like fun." Nicci said standing up from the bed
" Great." Johnny said then handing her the extra jacket." Here you may need this, it looks like it's going to start raining any second."
Nicci draped the jacket over her arm. " Thanks." She said then allowing Johnny to take her hand and walk her out to the nurses station. After signing her out they walked hand and hand out to the Land Rover climbing in just before it started to rain
.....
As promised Johnny cruized around the town in the rain." Johnny look there' s a car hop, I haven't been to one of those in ages." Nicci said
" Neither have I and I don't know about you but I skipped lunch." Johnny said pulling into the driveway
After eating Johnny continued to drive around. Even though it started raining harder they didn't care. They were to busy enjoying each other's company to care about anything that was going on around them. " Feel like some music?" Johnny asked reaching for the radio dial. As they sat there quietly listening to the music an old and very familiar song began to play. Without warning Johnny pulled over bringing the Land Rover to a complete stop." Can I have this dance?" Johnny whispered reaching for Nicci's hand
Nicci looked at Johnny in complete surprise." What."
" Come on it'll be fun." Johnny assured turning up the radio as loud as it could go.
Then stepping out into the rain, Johnny took Nicci by the arm pulling her out with him. Johnny wrapped his arms around Nicci and pulled her close to him. Looking into each others eyes they began to dance.
......
Earth Angel, Earth Angel Will you be mine,
My darling dear love you for all time I'm just a fool, a fool in love with you
Earth Angel, Earth Angel The one I adore,
Love you forever and ever more
I'm just a fool, a fool in love with you
I fell for you and then I knew The vision of your love lovelyness
I hope and I pray that someday
That I'll be the vision of your hap happiness
Earth Angel, Earth Angel Please be mine,
My darling dear love you for all time
I'm just a fool, a fool in love with you
I fell for you and I knew The vision of your lovelyness
I hope and I pray that someday
That I'll be the vision of your happiness
Earth Angel, Earth Angel Please be mine,
My darling dear love you for all time
I'm just a fool, a fool in love with you.
.....
As the song came to an end Johnny gently rubbed her cheek. " I love you Nicci Rogers." He whispered kissing her on the lips
Nicci didn't know what she was feeling all she knew she was happier then she's been in a very long time. Being with the man she fell in love with so long ago. With out hesitation she opened her mouth accepting Johnny's tongue
.............
Johnny and Nicci climbed back in the Land Rover. Looking at Nicci, Johnny could see the effects that the cold rain had on her chest. No Gage you can't think of her like that. He thought shaking his head as he started to drive away.
" Look at us we're soaked." Nicci said." What is Paster Daniels going to think?"
" Well we can go to my place and dry off. I'll pop your clothes in the dryer and that way Paster Daniels will never know."
.......
Johnny opened the door and ushered Nicci inside Making a quick trip into the bedroom we walked out holding a bath robe" Here you can wear this until your clothes are dry." He said holding the robe up.
" Okay." Nicci said taking the bathrobe then going into the bathroom to change.
Johnny quickly put her clothes in the dryer then walked over to the stereo allowing the music to fill the room." Can I get you something to drink." Johhhn offered
" No that's okay." Nicci said sitting down on the couch. Soon Johnny sat down next to her letting the music over take them. Resting her head on his shoulder." I love you Johnny Gage." She whispered
With her words Johnny felt his heart overflowing with happiness and love. " Oh Nicci I've missed those words so much. When you left I thought I'd never see you or even get the chance to hold you again." Johnny said
" Johnny it don't matter, I'm here and that's all that is important." Nicci said taking the man she loved in her arms
With those words Johnny leaned over and kissed her on the forehead." I love you Nicci Rogers." He whispered taking her in his arms embracing her with a long passinate kiss. Then moving down her neck he was able to get a closer look at the chain she wore around her neck. As he looked at the ring dangling by the chain his eyes began to tear." Nicci I don't know what to say, after all these years you still have my ring." Johnny whispered seeing that it was the ring he gave her the same night they made love in the old Ramblier.
" Johnny I never once took it off. I told you the night you gave it to me that I would be yours forever and I meant it. I never once stopped loving you. You were my first and only love."
Tears welling up inside him Johnny sat there. Without a word he reached around her neck and undid the chain allowing the ring to slip off into his palm. " Nicci I love you and I want you to be mine forever. I want you to be my wife. Will you marry me?" Johnny proposed placing the ring around her finger.
Nicci looked at Johnny freeing him from her arms ." Johnny back then I would've married you , but now I don't think I can. I'm not the same person that I use to be. I'm a whore Johnny, you know that as well as I do. You have a good life and people here respect you and I can't let my past ruin your future. I love you to much to allow that to happen. What would your friends say if they knew you married a whore Johnny." Nicci said hanging her head
" Nicci don't call yourself that, don't you know it don't matter to me what you've done, I'm still going to love you. And it don't matter to me what people think. I still want to spend my life with you cause without you, my future isn't worth looking foward to." Johnny concluded
With her tears flowing Nicci took him in her arms." Oh Johnny I love you so much." Nicci whispered
" Can I take that as a yes?" Johnny asked hopeful
" Yes I'll marry you." Nicci said
As the music continued to fill their hearts. Johnny and Nicci sat there holding each other. Placing his strong loving hands on her cheeks he leaned over kissing her more passionaltly then he ever did before. Moving to her ear." I love you so much." He whispered kissing her neck
Feeling his warm breath on her neck she longed to feel him again ." Johnny." She whispered. " I want you to love me again."
Picking her up, Johnny carryied her into the bedroom,then stood her up in front of the bed. Taking her in his arms, he wrapped his lips around hers darting his tongue inside her mouth. While untieing the belt around her waist allowing the robe to fall to the floor. Johnny then slid his hand up taking one of her full sized breasts in his hand gently squeezing it." Ohhhh." He moaned feeling her upzip his jeans then moving her hand inside stroking his hardened member. Johnny gently pushed her back until she rested confortably on the bed. Slowly moving his hands up and down carressing the lengh of her body sending chills down her spine with his gentle touch. Taking her breasts in each hand, he gently pushed them together moving from on to the other sucking each hardened nipple.
" Oh yeahh." She whispered feeling his hot breath moving down her tummy stopping at her neatly trimmed mound Spreading her legs, Johnny kissed the inside of her theighs before taking her womanhood in his mouth. gently sucking her clit while inserting two fingers deep inside her dampened hole." Ah huh." Nicci moaned feeling him slide his fingers in and out of her. " Oh yessss." Feeling her start to give into him, Johnny plunged his finger faster while wiggling out of his jeans freeing his stiffened member. Then without warning Johnny stood up then buried his erection deep inside her. " Oh shittttt......" She moaned grinding her hips up to meet his every thrust. Faster and faster he plowed into her until they exploded together. Once again the moon being the only wittness of their love making
..........
After they were dressed Johnny and Nicci sat on the couch sharing a bowl of ice cream when the phone rang." Excuse me while I get the phone." He said heading for the kitchen
When Johnny came back into the living room he became alarmed when he noticed that she was standing up on the other side of the room holding a picture in her hands . From where he stood he could see her body shake in fear." Nicci, what's wrong?" He whispered worriedly
Nicci looked up at Johnny with tears in her eyes." This, he's what's wrong." She whimpered
Johnny looked down and saw that she was pointing to the Captain's face inside a group picture that was taken a year ago at the Firemans Picnic. "Nicci what about him, why are you so frightened of my Captain?" Johnny asked
With her tears landing on the picture as she starred down looking at the man inside she began to speak. " He looks like a guy I knew back in New York. His name was James Anderson. Knuckles told him he could do what he wanted to me as long as he paid for it. As far as James was concerned he owned me."she stopped uneffectively to wipe her tears." Oh he was mean, he beat me when I refused to do what he wanted me to. Then one night him and Knuckles got into a huge fight over who I belonged to. James lost that fight and took it out on me. He said that he was going to make me pay for Knuckles backing out of their deal. I tried to get away from him but he caught me, I begged him to stop but he wouldn't he just kept beating me with a bat until I was bloody. When I tried to get away again he he......" Nicci stopped
" Nicci what did he do?" Johnny asked
" He stabbed me." She whimpered. pulling up her shirt showing him the three inch scar. ". The doctors that cared for me said that they lost me two times durning surgery. They said they didn't think I would survive because my brain was swollen and they had to insert a tube to relieve the pressure. Johnny I almost died that night, because not only did he stab me, he broke my arm and fractured several ribs. One of my ribs puntured my left lung and caused it to collapse. " She finished in a whisper.
Looking at the pain in Nicci's eyes he took her in his arms." Nicci I'm so sorry, I had no idea." He soothed while tears escaped from his eyes
Pulling away Nicci snapped throwing the picture across the room making the glass shatter "SORRY DON'T BE SORRY. " She yelled as her body shook uncontrollable. Seeing what she had done she withdrew. hanging her head she cried"Oh no I'm so sorry."
" Shhhhhh it's okay Nicci," He soothed pulling her close
..........
Laying her spent body gently down on her bed, Johnny sat down next to her watching as she whimpered in her sleep. " Shhhhh it's okay, Nicci I got you." Johnny soothed stroking the back of her head.
Seeing that she was starting to relax Johnny got up to leave only to be stopped be her hand on his arm. " Please Johnny don't go." She cried out
"Shhhhh it's okay I wont go." He soothed looking down into her terrified eyes
Laying down next to her Johnny could feel her body tremble. He didn't know if it would set to well if he stayed but he knew in his heart that he couldn't leave her not like this. " I love you Nicci." He whispered before drifting off to sleep
..............The Next Morning..........
Opening his eyes to clatter coming from the hall Johnny sat up in bed, Looking around the room. Then looking at his watch he realized that it was time for him to go. With that thought he leaned over to Nicci. " Hey Nicci." He whispered." I got to be going." Kissing her on the shoulder
" But it's early." Nicci moaned sleepily
" Yeah but I have to go to work, You going to be okay?" Johnny asked
" I'll be fine." She trailed off
" Okay I'll be back as soon as I can." he said seeing that she had fallen asleep.
Getting up Johnny swung the door open and walked up to the nurses station being greeted by Paster Daniels. " Morning Mr. Gage, How's Nicci?"
" She's doing fine she's still asleep." Johnny said
" Well that's good, I hear she had a rough night last night." Daniels said taking a sip of coffee.
" Yeah she did." Johnny said. " I probably should've went home but I really didn't want to leave her alone. I know there are probably rules about that sort of thing."
" Yeah there are, but I know I can trust you. Becides I know she needed you, I'm just glad you were there for her."
" So What time will she be released today?" " She'll be released at eleven thirty, I'll take her to the half way house. I don't know the address off the top of my head but I can drop it off to you at the station on my way to the house." Daniels said
" Okay, Who knows maybe I can show her the station." Johnny said
" I think she'll like that." Daniels said
*********
" Morning." Johnny greeted strolling into the day room
" Good morning." Roy greeted. " Looks like you're in a good mood."
" Oh I am in a good mood, I'm getting married and Nicci's being released today." Johnny said
" Getting married?" Cap asked in shock
" Yep, Nicci and I are getting married. I don't know when but it'll happen." Johnny announced
" Well that's good to hear, but do you think she's ready for the outside world or for that kind of committment?" Mike questioned
" I don't know she's going into a halfway house which will help. It'll be rough on her at first but I think she'll be okay. At least I hope she is. And I figure it'll be a least a year before we're married
" Well tell her when you see her that we wish her the best." Roy said between sips of coffee.
" Why don't you tell her yourself, Paster Daniels will be stopping be here before taking her to the house." Johnny said. Then looking at the Captain Johnny rememberd what Nicci said about James Anderson. " Hey Cap, there's something I need to tell you." Johnny started Just as the Klaxons sounded.
..................
As soon as the squad came to a stop an hour and a half later, Johnny climbed out and headed for the office, hopping he would have a chance to talk to his Captain before Nicci got there." Cap, There's something you have to know before." Johnny started being interupted by Chet
" Gage, Nicci's here." Chet announced
There was nothing else that Johnny could do but to hope for the best. Turning to leave the office Johnny greeted Paster Daniels and Nicci in the bay." Hey Half Pint." Johnny said
" Hi Johnny." Nicci greeted allowing him to guide her into the Day room
Johnny studied Nicci carefully as she scanned the men sitting at the table." Nicci, are you okay?" Johnny asked worriedly
" Yeah I'm okay." Nicci said looking at Johnny
" Nicci, why don't you sit down and join us for some lunch." Chet offered kindly pulling out a chair.
With hesitation she looked up at Johnny. " Nicci it's okay no ones going to hurt you." Johnny assured
" Mr Gage is right, It's alright." Daniels confirmed
Nicci cautiously walked over to the table and sat down with Johnny at her side. Followed by Paster Daniels taking his seat.
Mike calmly walked up to Nicci with a glass of milk." Here you go." Mike said with a friendly smile sitting the glass down in front of her.
Chet studied Nicci closely and seeing that she seemed to be handling the situation well he decided to break the silence." So Nicci, Gage tell us you've been released from the clinic, Tell me, how does it feel to spring that joint?" Chet asked. As soon as Chet spoke all eyes went on him then on Nicci, none of them knowing how she was going to react to Chet.
" Chet." Johnny glared
" No Johnny it's okay, I guess it feels okay," She said looking at Chet." Paster Daniels says I'll have more freedom in the house.
Johnny was relieved to see Nicci interact as well as she was with his friends. He knew that it was difficult for her but he could see that she was trying very hard.
" Gage also tells us you two are getting married." Marco said
Before Nicci had a chance to speak, Stanley burst into the room without warning, " Lunch ready? I'm starved he asked slapping his hands together.
Looking at Stanley, Nicci was over come with panic. With terror etched in her eyes she jumped up from her chair spilling her milk in the process." I'm sorry." She cried looking at the mess she made.
Johnny stood up to soothe her at his first touch Nicci leaped back afraid of being hurt." Nicci don't be afraid." Johnny soothed standing next to her while the others grabbed napkins to sop up the mess.
Stanley wittnessing the scene looked at Nicci's face seeing it filled with fear. He could see that she was frightened of him, for reasons he didn't know. Stanley didn't know what he could do to make her feel better but as the Captain he felt he had to try. With those thoughts, Stanley walked slowly over to Nicci. As soon as he reached his hand up to confort her she bolted back in a haste. " No please Don't I'm sorry." Nicci cried using her hand to shield her face from harm.
" Nicci it's okay he's not going to hurt you." Johnny soothed wrapping his arms around her trembleing body.
Daniels watching the scene stood up from the table." I think it's best if I take her to the house now. You can stop and see her when you get out of work." He said
" Yeah okay." Johnny said leading her out of the room
" I'm sorry Johnny I didn't mean to, Are you mad?" Nicci asked with tears streaming down her face
" Nicci come here." Johnny whispered once again taking her in his arms." I could never be mad at you for something that is'nt your fault. You have every right to be scared." Johnny soothed." You go with the Paster and I'll see you tonight okay Half Pint."
" Okay."
...........
Walking back into the day room Johnny could sence eyes on him. Taking his seat at the table he began " I'm sorry Cap, I wanted to talk to you before she got here." Johnny apologized
" It's okay, but I don't understand. Why is she scared of me." Captain wanted to know
" Cap it's not you that she's scared of. She told me about a guy that you remind her of. This guy beat her when she didn't want to do what he wanted and one night he almost killed her, he beat her bloody with a ball bat, and when she tried to get a way he stabbed her. She showed me the scar. He broke her arm and fractured her skull
" I'm sorry Pal I didn't know." Stanley said solemnly
Johnny looked over at his Captain. " Cap it's not your fault, this is something that she has to overcome." Johnny assured
" Do you think she can, I mean she almost died at the hands of that guy." Roy asked in concern
" I don't know Roy, she's so terrified, She has a very hard time trusting anyone. You seen her, she was even scared of me. But you know that's the bad thing about trust, once it's gone it's very hard to get back. She'll always keep people at arms lengh including me. Oh she lets me hug and kiss her but it's taken a very long time and although she's gotten better she'll always have moments." Johnny said
" Well it doesn't seem that she's scared of all of us just the Cap." Chet said
" Yeah I know and I know that in time she'll learn not to be scared of you Cap, it just may take a very long time."
" Well the important thing is that we know what she's been through and the last thing she needs is to be pushed into trusting in someone that she may not be capable of. I'll keep my distance if it'll make it easier for her."
" Thanks Cap, but don't deep you distance to much, she'll come around in time I know in my heart she will."
*********
As soon as B- shift arrived Johnny left to spend the whole day with Nicci." You going over to see Nicci today." Roy asked getting into his convertable after a long and busy shift.
" Yeah and I thought I would take her out to dinner." Johnny said climbing into his Land Rover
" How is she doing anyway, She's been at the halfway house for three weeks?" Mike asked
" Oh she's doing okay." Johnny said
" That's good, hey Gage why don't you ask her if she wants to join us tomorrow at the water park." Chet asked
" You know that's a good idea, I'll ask her tonight if she wants to go she use to love the water slide. I know she has a doctors appointment in the morning but there's no reason she can't go afterwards." Johnny said
" Well if she does call me and let me know because if she does want to go. I wont be there. She's terrified of me, and I don't want to be the cause of any problems." Stanley said
" Capt don't give up the water park, If I see any signs of trouble Nicci and I will leave, It's that simple." Johnny said
" Okay. If you're sure."
.......The next day....
" Hey, Mr. Gage." Mrs. Patterson greeted with a smile swinging the door open.
"Hi, Is Nicci in her room?" Johnny asked stepping past the house Mother
" Yes she's in there." Mrs. Patterson said as her smile faded
Johnny sencing there was something wrong by the look on Mrs. Pattersons face." Is there something wrong, How did her doctors appointment go." Johnny asked worriedly
" No there's nothing wrong really, It's just that Nicci lost some more weight. She's down to 86 pounds now."
" Man that's tiny."
" It sure is, the doctor prescribed some medchine that is surpose to help with her appitite. We'll have to wait and see if it helps." Patterson explained
" Well do you think it would be okay if I take her to the water park today? The guys that I work with will be there along with some of their families. We plan to spend the whole day there and have a picnic."
" Yeah I think that'll be okay, Just make sure she takes her Meds and monitor what and how much she eats. Then I can chart it later.
Johnny walked down the hall and knocked on Nicci's door." Hey Half Pint." Johnny announced turning the knob
" Hi Johnny." Nicci greeted with a smile
" Hey Nicci, I forgot to ask you last night but a bunch of us are going to the water park today, You interested?" Johnny asked.
" Yeah it sounds like it might be fun." Nicci said sitting down on the bed starring down at the floor.
" You sure, my Captain's going to be there. and I know you're scared of him, and we can leave if you have any trouble. But he really wants you to go." Johnny said taking a seat next to her Nicci looked up at Johnny
" Yes he does scare me, but I need to face him. Johnny I dont' want to run scared anymore." She said
" Are you sure?" Johnny asked
" Hell no I'm not sure, he scares the shit out of me. But if I'm going to make it then I need to do this. Now just let me change into my swim suit and I'll be ready." Nicci said
With those words Johnny put his arm around her leaning over he gave her a kiss on the cheek." Okay I'll wait in the other room." He said standing up
.............
Johnny pulled into the Wacky World Water Theme Park to see his friends standing there. Glancing at Nicci he watched her as she stared out the window at Stanley." Nicci you okay?" Johnny asked worriedly
Without an answer she continued to stare. " Nicci you have to understand he's not the man that hurt you, you know that. My Captain is a very nice guy and I trust him with my life. He knows why your scared of him and he understands."
Nicci looked over at Johnny " You told him?" She asked
" Not everything but Nicci he needed to know why you react differently to him then the others. Are you mad I told?" Johnny asked
" No I'm not mad."
............
The guys watched Nicci as she approached them. Seeing her dressed in her bathing suit, They could tell she had lost weight." Man if she loses anymore weight she'll disappear." Chet said under his breath seeing that her arms resembled tooth picks.
Fighting with the fear that was determined to win, Nicci stopped short and starred at the Captain. The guys knew she was frightened as they watched her tiny body start to tremble. Taking her in his arms " Nicci it's okay, he's not going to hurt you. You have to trust me and be strong. Not for me, but for yourself. If your ever going to do anything in your life you're going to have to face your fears head on." Johnny soothed.
" Johnny do you ever get scared?" She asked
" You bet I do, everytime I go into a burning building, we all get scared but we have to get over that fear and get the job done." Johnny said
With those words Nicci cautiously approached the Captain. Then taking a deep breath and letting it out slow she raised her trembleing hand to the Captain." Hi Mr. Stanley." Nicci greeted in a whisper.
Captain Stanley slowly exstended his hand to Nicci ." Hi Nicci." Stanley said softly being careful not to spook the terrified girl before him.
Moving her hand closer, Nicci accepted Stanley's hand in hers. As they shook hands Stanley could feel every bone in her hand.
" Hey Nicci, I want you to meet my family, this is my wife Joanne, this is Chris and Jenny." Roy introduced.
Looking at Joanne, Johnny remembered the threat that Knuckles made about making her his bitch. He knew now that he had to tell Roy so that he could protect his wife. Johnny knew that Jo was safe as long as she was in a crowd so Johnny decided to wait to talk to Roy so that he wouldn't ruin the day.
........
It was soon lunch time and after they rode several rides the decided it was time for a rest. While waiting for the hamburgers to cook, Johnny sat at the table watching Nicci play on the play ground with Chris and Jenny.. Suddenly Johnny let out a laugh watching his Half Pint fall on her face as she staggered off the merry-go- round. Seeing she resembled one of the kids and hearing her laugh again was doing Johnny's heart a world of good." Junior I don't think you have to worry, by the look of things Nicci's going to be just fine." Roy said
" Yeah, Now if she can only stop losing weight. She lost another five pounds, the doctor started her on a prescription that is surpose to help her get an appitite. Hopefully she'll start gaining." Johnny said his smile being replaced by worry
..............
After eating Chet went around the table." Hey any of you chickens want to go on the Hell Raiser Roller Coaster with me?"
" Count me out there's no way in hell I'm going on that thing." Marco said shaking his head
" Oh come on."
" Chet they don't call it Hell Raiser for nothing you know." Johnny said
Hearing everyone turn Chet down Nicci spoke up." I'll go on it with you."
" All right then come on lets leave these Chickens here we'll go by ourselves." Chet said as they ran to get in line.
"She didn't do to bad." Joanne said picking up the half eaten plate of food that Nicci left
" No I guess she didn't." Johmmy agreed
Seeing Roy walking to the rest room Johnny decided it was a good time to talk to Roy" Hey Roy wait up we need to talk." Johnny said running up next to his partner.
" Sure what's up?" Roy asked Walking into the restroom
Johnny told Roy about Knuckles and his threat on Joanne. " Why didn't you say something sooner?" Roy asked
" I didn't want you to worry besides, I thought Jo and the kids were safe at her sisters, but now that they're back." Johnny said
" And he's the guy who gave you those black eyes." Roy concluded
" Yes, he wants Nicci back and he knows that I got her. But Roy please don't tell anyone especially Nicci, There's no telling what she'd do if she found out. She may go back to him and that's the worst thing that could happen. She's come so far."
" Don't worry I wont tell anyone." Roy concluded
" Thanks."
" No problem that's what friends are for." Roy said
...........
"Johnny I had a really nice time, And you were right your Captain isn't that scary. In fact he's a pretty nice guy." Nicci said looking at Johnny with a smile.
" Well I'm glad you had fun, I know I did." Johnny said returning a smile
Nicci looking down to the floor. " I love you Johnny." She whispered looking back at Johnny.
" Taking his hand he gently rubbed her cheek. " I love you too." he whispered
" Johnny I want you to love me again." She whispered feeling her heart give into the night.
Parking in a dark and secluded place Johnny escorted Nicci to the bed in the back. Taking her in his arms he wrapped his lips around hers as she accepted his tongue inside. Suddenly Nicci rolled Johnny on his back." It's my turn to love you." She said placing her hand on his crotch undoing his pants and slidding them and his briefs down to his ankles allowing him to kick out of them. Then placing he hand on his member she stroked it to full size. Bending over Nicci swirled her tongue around the head of his rock before going down taking every inch of him in her mouth.
" Oh Nicci." Johnny moaned feeling her devour him.
Feeling himself start to give into her Johnny sat up guiding her away from him. Then laying her down on her back he began loving her. Reaching his hand around he untied the top of her suit allowing her beartiful breasts out. Then leaning over he embraced them. taking her nipples in his mouth gently biting them into full erection. Allowing his hand to crawl down her middle, stopping at her womaness.
" Ah huh," She moaned feeling his firm hand slide inside the bottoms of her suit.
Tenderly slipping his slender finger down between the folds of her flesh reaching her dampened hole, glidding two fingers in and out of her." So wet." He moaned feeling the effects he was having on her.
Feeling she was about to cave, Johnny pulled her bottoms down her legs then tossed them aside. Then getting on top of her he buried his bulge deep inside her making her squirm." Oh shit." She moaned feeling his stiffness plow deep within her." Feels so good." Pushing her hips up meeting his every thrust.''
" I'm not going to last." Johnny gasped feeling his balls tighten with his every stroke
" Lets do it together." Nicci moaned grinding her hips farther up to him allowing him to go deeper inside. Harder and faster Johnny plunged " Oh yessss......Goddddd....." Johnny groaned feeling her muscles climax around his explosion
,,,,,,,,,the next morning.....
Roy caught Johnny in the locker room " Hey I just thought I would let you know that you don't have to worry about Jo and the kids because I sent them to Kansas to visit Jo's mother."
" That's good. How did she take it?" Johnny asked releaved
" Not to bad, she's been wanting to go for a visit and this is the perfect time for her to go. She wanted me to go but I figure with that lunatic running loose you may need some help."
With Roy's words it was clear to Johnny that he underestimated their friendship. To think Roy was more then willing to put his life in danger for him was more then Johnny could ever ask for in a friend." I don't know what to say."
" You don't have to say anything, But you know as well as I do that we can't win if your not honest with me, You need to tell me everything that happens from here on out , No secretes."
*********
Strolling into the day room Johnny and Roy took their seats at the table." Hey where's Cap?" Johnny wondered
" Oh, the County Supervisor stopped in for a visit."
" Hello." Nicci spoke walking through the bay stopping in the doorway of the day room
Johnny turned around to the sound of her voice." Hey Half Pint, what are you doing here?" Johnny asked with a smile
" I had a job interview down the street and since I have a little over an hour to kill waiting for the city bus, I thought I would stop in and say hi." Nicci said
" Well you look real nice." Johnny said seeing that she was dredded in a t- lengh floral print skirt with a matching vest and beige blouse.
" Well thank you, but to be honest I haven't worn so much fabric all at once in a very long time. It's a good thing I brought a change of clothes with me. Is here someplace I can change?"
" Sure, right this way my dear." Johnny said leading her to the locker room
" Boy she shines up like a new penny don't she?" Chat remarked
" She sure does." Roy agreed
.............
Johnny grabbed Nicci around the waste." I love you." Johnny whispered kissing her on the neck
" I love you too Johnny." Nicci said turning around in his arms
" Hey, you want to wait here until I get off duty at six? we can catch a show and dinner."
" Okay just let me call my house mam and her know that I wont be home for supper."
Walking into the dorm, Nicci placed a quick call. " Well she said it was okay." Nicci said walking over to the door.
" Hold on there, I'm not going to let you leave without a kiss." Johnny said taking her in his arms then leaning down giving her a long passinate kiss.
.............
Johnny and Nicci walked back into the day room to find Captain Stanley and the Supervisor sitting at the table." Hi Mr. Stanley." Nicci said looking at the Supervisor.
" This is David Meyers the County Supervisor and this in Nicci Rogers." Stanley introduced. Feeling unsure of the situation Nicci looked down to the floor.
" Hi." she whispered
" Hello." Meyers said noticing the needle scars on her arms.
Sencing trouble, Captain stood up and pulled out a seat." Nicci why don't you join us for lunch?" he asked trying to ease the tension in the room
Johnny sitting next to her, he could see that Meyers was making her unconfortable by the way he kept looking at her." Nicci please try to eat something." Johnny said sliding his hand over hers.
Without a word Nicci took the med box out of her pocket and poured the four pills out in her palm Just then the Klaxons sounded." Squad 51 possible heart attack at the timely insurance building 223 Willow, time out 11.10"
" Squad 51 KMG 365."
................
Meyers continued to look at Nicci then without warning he spoke." I don't know how else to say this so I'll just get to the point. While I don't mind visitors at any of my stations, I still think it's important for us to keep our standards high. Do you understand Ms. Rogers?" Meyers asked, As the others looked up shocked by his rude statement
" Yeah I think I understand." She said
" Good just so you do understand that I don't think you are dressed appropriately to be here, I would exspect you to choose more suitable attire the next time you come for a visit. And I would appreciate it if you covered up your track marks on your arms. We do have an image to protect. I do not want nor will I tolerate Junkies hanging around at any of my stations. Have I made myself clear?" Meyers said sternly.
Feeling very small, Nicci looked around the table then hung her head. Without a word Nicci walked out of the room being followed by the Captain. Feeling the Captain put his firm hand on her she flinched.
" Nicci are you okay?" Stanley asked worriedly feeling her body shake under his touch
Nicci looked up to Stanley with teary eyes." I'm fine don't you worry." Nicci lied giving him a fake smile
" You want to talk?" Stanley asked seeing the pain in her eyes
Looking down at the ground." There's nothing to talk about Mr. Stanley he's right I don't belong here." Nicci said rubbing her tear streaked face.
" Now you know that's not true. You do belong here Nicci." Stanley soothed
" No, he's right you don't need junkies hanging around here and that's what I am, Mr. Stanley a junkie." Nicci whispered truning to leave
" Nicci please stay." Stanley begged
" No Mr. Stanley I've never been the kind to stay where I'm not wanted." Nicci cried walking to the door.
" Well where are you going to go? Is there anything you want me to tell Gage?" Captain asked concerned for her.
" Tell him anything and don't ask me where I'm going cause I wont know till I get there." Nicci bursted out in tears before leaving
With sadness, Stanley walked back into the day room. Then dropping in a chair he looked over at his crew and then at the Supervisor. Seeing the concern wash his Captains face Chet asked." is she going to be okay?"
" I don't know she's pretty upset and hurt." Stanley said giving up on trying to hide his concern
" Well I'm sorry, Hank but as long as I'm the Supervisor that's the way it will be, Now if you'll excuse me I'll be going." Meyers said getting up from the table to leave
Roy and Johnny walked into the day room one hour later. As Roy and Johnny took their seats at the table they could sence something was wrong." So does anyone want to tell us what we missed." Roy asked seeing the worried faces on his friends
Looking at Johnny Stanley began." I don't know how to say this but I think Nicci's headed for trouble. After you two left the Supervisor said some pretty rotten things to her. He said that she didn't belong here and he basically called her a junkie and said that he didn't want her kind hanging around. When she left she was crying. I tried to stop her but she was very upset."
Feeling his world collapse " Oh no." Johnny said hanging his head still hearing his Captain's words.
Roy watched as the concern danced on his partners face." Did she say where she was going?" He asked worriedly
" No but she said that he was right when he called her a junklie."
" Damn it." Johnny cursed
" Well maybe she's at the half way house." Chet suggested
" I hope so." Johnny said walking over to the phone.
.............
After hanging up the phone Johnny walked back to the table sinking deep in his chair." This is not good." Johnny said in a whisper
Seeing that his partner was very concerned Roy walked up and sat down next to him." What did you find out?"
" She was there, from what Mrs. Patterson said she picked up what looked like a large sum of money. When she asked her what she was doing Nicci said she was going to visit some old friends. Mrs. Patterson said that she looked like she'd been crying. She was shaking guys." Johnny said worriedly
" God I hope she's not relapsing." Stanley said worriedly
" Yeah she hasn't been clean very long, it wouldn't take much." Marco concluded
" I know Paster Daniels told me that one wrong word or set back could throw her in complete relapse."
" It's just not fair, she's busted her ass to get where she is and for what." Chet exploded leaving the room
........
Four hours have past and still Johnny didn't know where Nicci was." Hey don't worry Junior , she's okay." Roy soothed
" I wish I could believe that." Johnny said looking at Roy his face etched with worry
" Hey Gage you have a phone call, It's Mrs. Patterson." Captain announced Johnny jumped out of his seat and ran over to the phone, while the others gathered around waiting for any news.
" Hello." Johnny spoke into the phone. " I see..... No nothing yet.....yes I understand...... okay I will and you to......bye...."
Johnny hung up the phone and looked at his friends." That was her house mom telling me that she called Paster Daniels."
" Well what happens now?" Roy asked
" If she doesn't show up in twenty four hours the police will be called."
Another hour and a half have past and Johnny was past the point of worry Not knowing where Nicci was or what she was doing was killing him. He didn't like the thought of her throwing everything that she had worked so hard to get. Just then the door bell rang. " Gage someone's here to see you." Stanley said with a grin
Johnny looked up and saw Nicci standing there next to his Captain. Springing out of his chair he took Nicci in his arms." Thank God." Johnny said holding her tight." Where have you been I've been worried sick about you. when Cap told me what happened I thought you......Then I called Mrs. Patterson and she said you were gong to visit some old friends." Johnny said still embracing her.
" Johnny." Nicci started pulling away from him." Johnny I'm sorry I made you worry and I'm sorry I left the way I did." She said looking at the Captain then back at Johnny.
" I just needed some space, so I walked around a bit. I was going to go shopping thats why I went to the half way house to get some dough. But instead of going shopping I found myself at the zoo feeding the ducks. Yes I did go visit some old friends but I didn't do anything." Nicci said." Johnny did you think I was going back?"
" Yeah I did."
" Johnny you don't have to worry, I don't want to go back to that way of life. not now not ever. I know what that kind of life was doing to me and I'm not going back. Now I can't lie to you the thought was there, But Johnny there's no reason to go back not when I got you in my life." Nicci concluded
*******
After dinner and a movie Johnny drove to his place. With Nicci at his side he walked up on the porch. Suddenly without warning Nicci let out a scream and bolted down off the porch." Nicci what's wrong?" Johnny asked seeing the terror in her eyes.
" Mouse Johnny mouse." Nicci gasped trying to catch her breath
" Oh that damn cat next door, He's always leaving me presents." Johnny cursed picking up the dead animal and tossing it in the weeds
" Is it safe?" Nicci asked trying to collect herself
" Yes Half Pint it's safe." Johnny assured trying hard not to laugh
Nicci cautiously walked up the stairs looking down to make sure there weren't anymore surprises." What the fuck are you laughing at?" Nicci asked seeing Johnny chuckling under his breath as he pushed open the door and walked in followed by Nicci.
" Nothing it's just that you never did like mice, remember the mice we had in Montana some of them were as big as poodles." Johnny said walking to the stereo letting the music fill the air.
" Yeah I remember and I remember how you use to laugh at me too." Nicci concluded playfully pushing Johnny down making him land in a over stuffed chair with her landing on top of him. " Oh Johnny you always knew how to make me feel so good." Nicci spoke softly reaching her lips up giving him a long passinate kiss. Reaching around Johnny slowly lifted up the back of her dress grabbing the cheeks of her ass grinding her into his growing gland. Without warning Nicci lifted her body, slipping her dress up over her head totally exposing he nakedness to him. Reaching up taking her breasts in his hands he slowly guided them to his mouth sucking them until her nipples were rock hard." Oh Johnny." She moaned.
Pulling at his zipper Nicci slid her hand in gently stroking his hardened member." Mmmm." He moaned wiggling his pants down his hips.
" Let me love you Johnny." Nicci whispered climbing off his lap squatting down in front of him. While taking his pants down to his ankles then tossing them to the side. Johnny gave into her command by leaning back, scooting his ass to the edge of the chair. then spreading his legs open for her.
Spreading his ass cheeks apart she started working his ass ." Oh yes. " He moaned feeling her lick the tightness of his hole then moving to his balls taking them inside her mouth gently sucking them while moving her hand up and down on his full sized shaft.
"Mmmmm ." Johnny moaned Feeling his ball sack tighten as she took the lengh of him in her mouth moving faster up and down sucking his throbbing giant." Ohhhhh shitttttt. here it comes......." He let out a gasp thrusting his hips up with his explosion hitting the back of her throat.
" Now look you did, you made me all messy." Nicci teased licking the head of his dick getting every last drop of cum
" Yeah and who's fault is that." Johnny smiled down at her." You feel like a shower?" Johnny asked picking himself off the chair while standing her up on her feet.'
" Sure."
...............
" Please allow me." Johnny said taking the soapy spunge from Nicci's hand. Scooting up behind her he carressed the lengh of her with the spunge starting at her breasts working his way down her middle while she picked her arms up wrapping them around his neck. " Oops." Johnny whispered letting the spunge fall out of his hand. Johnny then reached around her waist resting his hands on the inside of her theighs working his way to her flesh. Spreading her lips open he caressed her growing clit with his thumb while moving his finger down to her hole." Soooo hot." He moaned feeling her wettness.
Turning in his arms she reached for his erection.
" No way Half Pint, it's my turn to love you." Johnny whispered moving her hand away. Standing her up against the cold tiles he leaned over wrapping his mouth around ther breast while grasping the other swirling the nipple between his thumb and finger.
" Oh yeah." She moaned feeling his other hand crawl down her middle stopping at her mound. Slidding his fingers down her snatch while flirting with her arroused clit before burying two fingers in her wettness. Moving them in and out while kissing his way down her middle." Mmmmmm." She moaned feeling him take her swollen clit in his mouth sucking on it while his fingers picked up there pace. Knowing she was about to give to him he inserted another finger pushing all three deep inside. " Ohhhhh yes." She gasped picking up her leg then resting her foot on the edge of the tub.
" Oh yeah give it up." Johnny said plunging his fingers faster and harder in and out feeling her clit throb against his tongue.
" Ohhhhh shitttttttt.........." She gasped feeling her give into him.
" Now lets go back to where we started." Johnny said turning off the water.
Had Johnny not have of turned on the stereo he would have heard the rumble of motorcycles coming to a stop in front of his house.
Laying her on the couch, he scooted on top of her. With the heat of passion he plowed deep inside her." Oh yes Johnny." She moaned grinding her hips meeting his every thrust.
" Turn over." He whispered allowing his member to escape her hole
Nicci carried out his command be getting on her knees. Then leaning forward she took her hands spreading her ass open for him." Ah huh." She gasped grinding her ass to him as he entered her from behind.
Faster and harder Johnny dove in slapping his throbbing balls against her clit.until they exploded together Laying in silence next to her, he watched her as she drifted off to sleep in his arms. I love you Nicci Rogers" He whispered before getting lost in his slumber.
,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
Little did they know knuckles wittnessed the whole scene as he watched through the sheer curtain his eyes filled with rage." That son of a bitch, will pay." He proclaimed
" What are you going to do boss." Shaggy asked seeing the anger on Knuckles face
" I'm going to teach that fucking whore and her red skin a lesson." Knuckles said with fire.
" What do you want us to do?" Chains asked
" I want you to follow that red skin. where ever he goes. It he takes a shit I want to know about it. Scar I want you and Blade to follow her."
" Well what do you want us to do with them?"
" I dont' wan't you to do a fucking thing to them except follow them, and leave the rest to me." Knuckles demanded " Now here's what we'll do................" Knuckles started putting his plan in motion.
**********
Cheerfully Johnny strolled into the day room." Hey partner," He greeted patting Roy on the back
" Morning what's got you in such a good mood?" Roy asked seeing Johnny plop down in a chair next to him
" Nothing can't a guy be in a good mood." Johnny said
" Oh I thought it had something to do with Nicci getting the job at the car wash." Roy said
" Oh it's not just that, her and I talked and she's moving in with me on Saturday, and if that's not enough we set the wedding date." Johnny said not being able to contain his smile.
" Oh yeah that's great Pal, when is it?" Stanley asked
" Well how does November seventh sound." Johnny said looking at his partner
" On my birthday Junior." Roy asked
" Yeah Happy Birthday." Johnny said just as the phone rang.
" Good morning, station 51, Stoker speaking, can I help you?....ahuh well what's the address?..... Okay ma'me they're on their way just calm down." Mike said into the phone " Gage, DeSoto that was a woman she seemed to be in trouble, She said she needed your help." Stoker said handing Roy the address. Johnny and Roy ran to the squad while Captain Stanley called in the still alarm.
" 10-4 Squad 51, time out 9:47." The dispatcher announced .
..............
Roy rolled to a stop at the address." This is strange no one appears to be here." Roy acknowledged climbing out of the squad." There's not a soul here much less a phone." Roy said
" Hey Roy, I wonder why she didn't call dispatch?" Johnny questioned
" I don't know we're way out of our district. We should look around, You start looking around and I'll call it in." Roy said reaching into the squad
Johnny walked around the side of the deserted building in search of a victim. Then hearing the roar of bikes he spun around to see five motercycles heading fast towards him." Oh shit." Johnny said Smelling danger he started running over to the squad only to be stopped by Knuckles.
" YOU BEEN FUCKING MY BITCH?" Knuckles asked getting in Johnny's face.
" No I haven't been fucking her as you put it, I made love to her. But you wouldn't know anything about that now would you." Johnny said
Roy hearing those words ran over stopping short seeing the rather large man throwing Johnny towards two guys dressed in chains. " What the hell are you doing leave him alone." Roy demanded just as two other guys grabbed him from behind
" Looks like we got two of em'." Chains said pushing Roy to the ground then kicking him in the ribs.
" You son of a bitch." Johnny demaned." Leave him alone he don't have nothing to do with this." Johnny protested.
" Johnny what the hell is going on?" Roy wanted to know
" Oh Pretty Boy, you didn't tell your partner about me." Knuckles said with a fake pout." Well you see Mr. DeSoto your partner's been fucking by bitch and now he's going to pay the price for fucking my whore for free." Knuckles said slapping Johnny in the face
As Roy watched, anger swept through him." Leave him alone." Roy said in protest trying to get up but was held down by Shaggy and Scar.
" No I can't do that. You see I told this Red Skin to give me back what is mine. and he didn't now you both are going to see what happens when you fuck with the Devil's Angels." Knuckles said
Roy watched in horror as Knuckles beat his partner in the head several times with a sawed off ball bat. He wanted to help but couldn't as Shaggy held his foot on Roys throat. When Knuckles completed the beating he threw Johnny's unconsious body over next to Roy." Now it's your turn." Knuckles said striking Roy in the head.
..............Two hours later......
When Johnny and Roy regained coniousness two hours later they found themselves stripped from all clothing and being restrained with chains around their wrists holding their arm above their heads. Seeing that they were alone Roy spoke. " Johnny are you okay?" he asked worriedly seeing the the gash in his partners head.
" Yeah I think so, Roy I'm sorry I got you into this it's all my fault." Johnny cried
" No Junior it's not your fault, you were protecting the girl you love, I would have done the same thing if it was Jo. We're partners." Roy soothed
" Shut the fuck up you two." Knuckles said walking back into the dimly lit room
" What the hell do you want from us?" Roy asked trying to hide his fear
" Funny you should ask, I'll tell you later." Knuckles said cutting Roy a cold grin
. .........Meanwhile back at the station............
" Hi guys, Where's Johnny?" Nicci greeted strolling into the day room
" Oh they're out on a run, they should be back any minute." Stanley said looking down at his watch and seeing that two hours have past since they left.''
" Oh well do you mind if I wait here for him, I have something important to tell him." Nicci said glowing
" No it's perfectally okay if you wait here." Stanley said
" Yeah and if you feel daring you can eat some of Marco's chilli while you're waiting." Chet said passing her a bowl
" Good I'm starved, but first I need to use the restroom." Nicci said leaving the room
" Did I hear her right? did she say she was starved." Mike asked in disbelief
" Yeah she did and I don't know what it is but she looks differant." Chet noticed seeing a glow about her that wasn't there before.
........... Five hours later.............
Five hours later Stanley stood in the door way, worry set in every line on his face. Walking over to the table he dropped heavy into a chair. With steally eyes he looked at his crew then at Nicci who was munching on some saltines." I just got off the phone with dispatch, they haven't heard anything from the squad in almost six hours. And Rampart hasn't seen them." Stanley said worriedly
" Oh Cap, I wouldn't worry about them this isn't the first time they've done this, maybe they got another still alarm."
" I've thought about that but they should have made contact with dispatch."
............Mean while..........
Knuckles and three of his goons sat in a circle on the floor sharing a bucket of chicken." Hey boss, you think they want some." Chains asked motioning his head over to the two paramedics.
" Hey good idea." Knuckles said throwing a chicken bone at Roy.
............ Three hours later, Back at the station.........
" Station 51, Captain Stanley speaking, Can I help you?" Stanley spoke into the phone. Stanley stood there fear sweeping through him as he listened to the voice on the other end. Hanging up the phone, he looked at his crew the swallowing his tears Stanley asked " Where's Nicci?"
" She's in the latrine Cap why, who was that on the phone?" Chet asked seeing the worry etched in Stanley's eyes. Stanley slowly walked over to the table dropping in a chair.
"Cap come on, who was it?" Mike asked feeling that something was terribly wrong.
Captain with the look of fear he took another look at his crew. " I don't know how to say this. " He stopped swallowing the lump in his throat. " That was the LAPD it seems the squad was located by the police at Dunkley's Cannon, Gage and DeSoto were not anywhere around. The only thing they found was Gage's badge. which was stained with blood, They're towing the squad back here." Stanley explained
" What do we tell Nicci?" Marco asked with worry
" Nothing yet, I think it'll be best if she doesn't know yet until we hear something more."
........Mean while............
Barging in Blade walked over to the circle and whispered some information into Knuckles ear. " Good very good." Knuckles said cutting Roy and Johnny a frigid grin. " Now back to what I want." He said walking up to Roy then releasing the chains around Roy's wrists. " Blade here tells me that he seen that fucking bitch go into your station, I want you to call your station and tell her that if she don't get her ass here you and her butt fucking fireman will die, don't talk to anyone else but her, do you understand." Knuckles demanded throwing Roy to the floor next to the phone
" No I will not call her." Roy refused
Knuckles laughed out loud." You hear that boys, he will not call her." He mimiced. Soon his laughter was replaced with anger as he kicked Roy in the head." Well maybe this will change your mind." Knuckles said pulling a knife out then pressing it hard against his throat.
" You son of a Bitch." Johnny said struggling to get free from his chains.
" Shut the fuck up." Knuckles demanded glaring at Johnny,
" So you going to call her?" Knuckles said turning his attention back to Roy
Feeling the blade cut into flesh, Roy felt he had no other choice but to call." yes I'll call." he coughed
...........Meanwhile back at station ....
Walking through the bay, Nicci noticed the squad being towed in by a wrecker. Then walking into the day room, she spotted Captain Stanley talking to his crew, Looking down at Stanley's hand she noticed him holding a silver colored badge covered in blood." Mr. Stanley, why is the squad being towed,? Where's Johnny and Roy?" She questioned
Looking at Nicci he knew that their was no way of keeping it from her any longer." Nicci I want you to have a seat, there is something that you need to know." Stanley started motioning over to Chet and Marco to have a seat next to Nicci. He knew that what he was about to tell her would be upseting to her. " Nicci first of all I need you to be strong. Probably stronger then you have ever been before. okay." Stanley started just as the phone rang.
" Station 51, Mike Stoker speaking, can I help you?......... Okay hold on I'll get her." Stoker said into the phone.
" Nicci it's for you."
" Me? I wonder who would be calling me here," Nicci questioned taking the reciever from Mike. " Hello........." Nicci said." I see........"she said hanging up the phone without saying goodbye. " Mr. Stanley I've got to go." Nicci cried running out of the station. Before any of them got the chance to stop her.
...........
As Nicci walked down the darkened street she couldn't shake the feeling that it was her fault Knuckles had Johnny and Roy. and she knew in her heart that she was going to be hurt or killed when she got there but still she knew that if she didn't do what Roy told her to do Knuckles would kill them both. She couldn't let them die for her. Rubbing her stomach while her tears escaped, she hung her head." I hope you'll understand, I have to save them." She spoke softly to her growing belly. ............
Walking into the dull and musky room she spotted Johnny and Roy hanging by their arm in the middle of the room." Oh Johnny." She cried running up to him wrapping her arms around him." You okay, I'm so sorry." She cried seeing his face dotted with bruises and the trickle of blood running down the side of his face.
" Yeah I'm okay Nicci ." he tried to soothe kissing her on the cheek
Then looking at Roy standing next to Johnny " Are you okay Mr. DeSoto?" Seeing the blood marks that the knife made on his neck
" Yes. I'm fine Nicci." Roy assured,
Suddenly without warning Knuckles grabbed Nicci from behind. Spinning her around he let loose." YOU DIRTY BITCH." Knuckles said striking her hard in the face making her fall to the floor.
Holding her cheek she began to cry." Please don't hurt them anymore." She whimperd
Watching Nicci cry was more then Johnny could take," YOU SON OF A BITCH. YOU LEAVE HER ALONE." Johnny exploded fighting the chains.
Ignoring Johnny, Knuckles continued his deed kicking Nicci in the chest and stomach. " I'M GONNA TEACH YOU A LESSON YOU'LL NEVER FORGET, YOU WORTHLESS BITCH." Knuckles concluded dragging her into the other room by a hand full of her hair.
" No please dont' please." Nicci pleaded protecting her stomach like a tiger to it's cub
" Oh God No, " Johnny cried listening to Nicci scream out in pain. Knowing that there wasn't nothing he could do to stop it." My God Roy, listen to her, we got to do something, he's going to kill her." His voice a mixture of plea and pain
Swinging the door open Knuckles shoved Nicci down to the floor in front of Roy and Johnny. Hanging her bloody beaten face she sobbed." I'm so sorry...... " She managed to speak
" Shhhh you didn't ....... " Johnny stopped when she looked up to him. " Oh Nicci." He cried seeing her face swollen and covered with bruises and blood
Grabbing her by the back of the neck Knuckles threw her to the other side of the room. Then kicked her several more times in the head. " YOU WONT EVER LEAVE ME AGAIN UNDERSTAND." Knuckles screamed. Then ripping off her clothes " YOU DIRTY LITTLE WHORE, I'LL TEACH YOU NOT TO FUCK FOR FREE." Knuckles continued taking his swollen member out of his jeans. then without care he brutally plowed fiercely inside her, pumping his rock deep inside her making her cry out in terror.
With fire running throught the depths of he soul Johnny blew. " YOU SON OF A BITCH I'M GOING TO KILL YOU." Watching Knuckles viciously attack Nicci causeing her to cry out from the pain he was causing her
" Johnny, Johnny where are you talk to me I love you Johnny." Nicci cried needing to hear his voice. In her heart she knew that if her time was up she wanted Johnny's voice to be the last one she heard.
" Half Pint I'm here baby and I love you too. it's going to be alright." Johnny soothed in between sobs. " Nicci just think about us,"with that one special song popping in his head he began to sing to her." Earth Angel Earth Angel." he soothed " Will you be mine, My darling dear love you for all time I'm just a fool a fool in love with you." Johnny repeated over and over.
After pumping the last bit of cum on Nicci's face Knuckles stood up " Have at it boys she's all yours." He concluded. Then walking up to Johnny with his semi errection " Shut the fuck up. " Knuckles demanded punching him in the face.
" You son of a bitch." Roy spit out in anger.
" Oh Whats wrong." Knuckles asked standing up next to Roy." It seems I've pissed off Pretty Boy and his partner when I fucked my whore." Knuckles said grinning cold then punching Roy in the face giving him a bloody nose. Then walking in between he grabbed them both by the back of the hair. " Don't you like to watch a good fuck?" Knuckles asked yanking their heads back. " Watch my buddies as they fuck that worthless whore." Knuckles demanded forcing them to watch while his goons took turns on Nicci
" You know something I think she's been clean to long." Shaggy said walking over to Nicci with a syringe." I think she wants to party." With a cold smile Knuckles walked over to Shaggy taking the syringe.
" Hold her down boys." He said bending down at Nicci's side
"NO NO OH GOD NO.........." Nicci cried knowing that there was so much more at stake then before. In horror Roy and Johnny watched as Knuckles plunged the needle deep in her arm." Johnny I love you." Nicci cried as her body went limp from the drug
" OHH NOOOOOO NICCCIIIII." Johnny cried out seeing her body lay lifeless in front of him....
*******
In the early hours, Stanley walked through the bay. Swallowing a rugged breath he starred at the squad. It looked so lonely and empty. Allowing a tear to fall he prayed for his friends safe return.
" Capt." Marco asked walking up th his Captain, he could see the worry set in his face
" Yeah, what the hell are you guys doing up at this hour." Stanley asked looking at his watch and seeing that it was nearly 2:30
" We couldn't sleep either. Hey why don't you join us Chet made a pot of coffee." Marco said
" Okay, I'll be in in a minute." Stanley accepted
" Okay." Marco concluded walking towards the doorway. " Hey Cap." he started turning around to look at his Captain." Don't worry Gage and DeSoto are fine."
" God how I want to believe that Marco."
.............
Mike sat at the table starring down at his coffee. He could not shake the feeling that it was his fault. He knew that he was the one that sent them on the run that morning. Somehow Marco senced what Mike was thinking by the distant look on his face." Hey buddy it's not your fault you were doing your job, Anyone of us would've done the same thing if we answered the phone. How could you have known?" Marco soothed
" You know Marco's right, I've sent you guys into burning buildings that could've killed any one of you. Who would have thought a simple phone call could've." Stanley stopped
" Hey guys, they're playing Friday 13th on the late show, why don't we watch some TV and get our minds off things for a while." Chet said trying to cover up his feelings especially after the last prank the Phantom played on Johnny.
The guys gathered around the TV trying to escape but it was no use. It just wasn't the same without Roy and Johnny. They felt a big part of them was missing as the thoughts of their friends still lingered. Johnny wasn't there to be hassled by Chet and Roy wasn't there to tell Chet to knock it off and go easy on Johnny.
................
Opening his eyes, Roy was surrounded by darkness. Am I dead? he wondered feeling his head throb with pain. As he looked around he could see shadows of what looked like cars parked off in a distance. Bringing them into focus he saw that one of the cars was his and parked next to it was the Captain's pick up. It was then he realized that he was in the back parking lot at the station. He couldn't remember how he got there, and the memories of what happened were all jumbled up inside his head. As he sat up he continued to take in his surroundings. looking down he noticed Johnny's body laying next to him." Hey Johnny wake up we're home." Roy whispered shaking his partner. Without a responce he turned Johnny on his back. He could see that Johnny was badly beaten and in desperate need of help. Taking every bit of energy he had, Roy got to his feet and staggered towards the station. only to fall into the row of trash cans causing a huge racket.
..........
" What the hell was that?" Chet asked in a gasp being freaked out by the loud noise coming from outside.
" Why don't you be a Pal and go check it out it's probably Boot." Captain said trying to collect himself after the shock
Finally Chet got up the nerve to go search for the noice, Walking out back he noticed Roy struggling to get to his feet." CAP, COME QUICK IT'S ROY, HE' S HURT." Chet announced rushing over to Roy
Stanley and his crew ran out back stopping short seeing Chet helping Roy to his feet." Thank God,Roy." Captain said running to Roy." What happened? Where's Gage?" Stanley wanted to know
" He's over there he's hurt real bad Cap." Roy said struggleing to speak
" Stoker call it into dispatch, Marco turn on the spot lights." Captain ordered Knealing down next to Johnny, Stanley let out a gasp seeing that Johnny was serverely beaten. Seeing that Johnny was coming to." Gage what happened?" He asked as squad 16 rolled to a stop followed by the ambulance
" Cap, it's Nicci........Nicci....she's." Johnny managed before drifting out.
............
Watching as Roy entered the lounge Stanley walked up to him." Are you okay Pal." He asked seeing the white bandage covering a portion of his forehead. " I'm okay I just have a slight concussion." Roy said sinking down in a chair. Seeing the fear in Roy's blackened eyes Captain sat down next to him." How's gage." He asked
" Oh Cap it doesn't look good, Brackett's examining him now." Roy said with his tears falling.
" I'll go call Nicci. I'm sure she would want to know." Mike said walking over to the pay phone
With the mention of her name, Roy caved into his tears as the memories haunted him." Oh Nicci." He cried
..........One Hour Later.........
" How is he Doc?" Chet asked jumping up from his chair at the first sight of Brackett
" He'll be fine at least phyically he's suffered no real injury other then a severe concussion and two broken ribs. However mentally I'm not so sure he's extremely upset. We'll keep him for a couple of days for observation."
" Well can we see him Doc?" Roy asked
" I don't think that's a good idea Roy, like I said he's extremely upset, we gave him a sedative to calm him. He keeps repeating the name Nicci." Brackett concluded
" Roy what happened to Nicci." Stanley asked sinking in a chair,
Roy could still hear Nicci's screams. Hanging his head he once again gave into tears unable to answer his Captain's question.
...............The Next Day............
Sencing someone in the room Johnny opened his blackened eyes to see Roy and the rest standing around his bed." Hey partner, how are you doing?" Johnny asked .
" Oh I'm fine, and you?" Roy returned the question''
" I'm okay." Johnny said with the look of pain." The police were just here to get my statment." Johnny said
" Yeah they stopped by the house to get mine." Roy said taking a seat on the bed
Johnny looked at Roy his face littered with cuts and bruises. " Roy have you heard from Nicci?" he asked hopeful
" No I haven't." Roy said
" Oh Roy, I want to believe she's okay, I love her so much. She's my Half Pint." Johnny trailed off in tears.
" I do too, and I told the police everything about what happened. They have an APB out on him right now." Roy said
Watching the tears stream down Johnny's face Stanley's heart broke. He knew that it was hard for Johnny to show his emotions. It was obvious to him that something terrible had happened as he watched Johnny loose it in front of him. " Gage, DeSoto it's time to be honest with us." Stanley started" What happened?"
For a moment Johnny and Roy looked at each other neither one of them wanted to relive that pain. But they knew they had a right to know. Johnny looked at Stanley then at the rest. " Oh Cap the call we got yesturday morning was set up by Knuckles and his gang
" Knuckles, Who's Knuckles?" Captain asked.
" Knuckles was Nicci's pimp. He'd been after me since the begining to give her back. I wouldn't Cap, I loved her to much to let her go." Johnny ended with tears
" We know it's hard on you both but we're family and we want to help but we can't if you don't tell us." Stanley soothed
"Kncukles jumped us yesturday and took us to his hide out. I'm still not sure how we got there. Later on he put a knife up to my throat and forced me to call the station and tell Nicci that if she didn't come he would kill us both." Roy explained in tears
" That's why she left the way she did." Chet said
" Yeah it was. God I didn't want to do it." Roy confessed. " Why did I do That?"
" Roy if you didn't call, he would have killed you. You did it because of your family." Johnny said " Roy you had no choice."
" Well what happened to Nicci? is she okay." Stanley asked with great concern
" Oh Cap, he took her in the other room and beat her. I wanted to help her but I couldn't he had us both chained up with are arms over our heads so that we couldn't move. Then when he was through he brought her back to the room where we were and that was when he.........." Johnny stopped the memories of her screams rushing to him
Seeing that it was to much for his partner, Roy picked up where Johnny left off." He threw her to the ground and forced us to watch while they raped her over and over. When they were done. They.....they.... put a needle in her arm....that's the last thing I remember. The next thing I know we were in the back parking lot at the station." Roy finished in a whisper.
Filled with a great sence of loss Stanley looked at his crew. He didn't know what he could say to ease their pain." It's okay, you got to believe she's alright." Stanley soothed trying to believe in his own words."
" Cap I wish that it was that simple. but I close my eyes and I can still see him kicking her in the head over and over. I can still see them brutally attack her, God I felt so helpless knowing there wasn't a damn thing I could do but watch them beat her bloody."
" Excuse me, he needs his rest and you do to Roy." Dixie said barging in
*****The Next Day*****
" Hey Junior you ready to go home?" Roy asked bouncing into the room
" Yeah I'm ready. But Roy I want to go to the station and say Hi to the guys first." Johnny said hanging his head
" Junior, you okay?" Roy asked
" Yeah but you know something, I don't want to go home, Nicci was surrpose to move in with me tomorrow." Johnny said
" I know and you don't have to go home you can stay with me. Jo and the kids are still in Kansas and you can stay with me as long as you want. I know it's hard on you. I'ts hard on all of us. You know it's kind of funny, When I first saw Nicci, I didn't know what to think and I really couldn't see myself being as close to her as what I am. I guess it's because you and I being like brothers I feel like she's my kid sister." Roy concluded
..............
" Hey Pal welcome back." Stanley greeted
" Thanks it's good to be back.." Johnny said taking a seat at the table "
So how long do you think it's going to be till you come back to work?" Marco asked placing a cup of coffee down on the table in front of Johnny. Just as the door bell rang
" I don't know probably at least a week or two." Johnny said.
" Gage someone's here to see you." Stanley announced
Johnny looked over his shoulder to find Paster Daniels and Mrs. Patterson standing there.
" Hi" Johnny said standing up to greet them.
" Mr. Gage I am so sorry. I know how much you loved her and I know how much she wanted it." Mrs. Patterson spoke softly
With a blank look Johnny looked at Mrs. Patterson then at Paster Daniels. " Wanted what?" He asked unknowingly
" Oh no, she never got the chance to tell you, did she? Mrs Patterson whispered
" Tell me what." Johnny asked
" I took her to the doctors the other morning, She got the test results yesturday and it seems that Nicci was four weeks pregnant." Mrs. Patterson said in a sob
With those words Johnny's heart fell into his stomach." Oh no not again." Unable to contain his tears he sat down to cry
Feeling his partners loss, Roy sat down next to him putting his arm around his trembleing shoulder." Junior I'm sorry." Roy sympathized.
" Oh I'm okay, after all you can't miss what you don't have." Johnny said in a whimper
" Is there anything I can do?" Daniels asked soothingly
" No I'll be fine. " Johnny said wiping his tears.
" Very well then, we'll be getting going but let me express how deeply sorry I am." Daniels concluded getting up to leave with Mrs Patterson at his side
" Paster Daniels wait, there is one thing you can do for me, Pray for her please." Johnny said looking up with fresh tears streaking down his cheeks."
********
As Johnny walked into the day room for the first time in three weeks he was surprised when he found Detective Pete Barnes sitting at the table talking to the Captain. " Hello Mr. Gage, How are you feeling?" Barnes asked taking a sip of coffee
" Oh I'm fine." Johnny lied." Tell me have you got any news on Nicci." Johnny asked his words filled with hope
" Actually that's the reason I stopped by, is to let you know that the department has decided to give up any search for Ms. Rogers." Barnes announced
" What, you cant' do that." Johnny said in protest
Seeing the anger build on Johnny's face Barnes shifted unconfortable in his chair." It's been three weeks and we haven't turned up anything but dead ends. Now I don't like it anymore then you do, but the department doesn't want to waste the tax payers money, And they can't justify wasting time searching for something and coming up empty. I hope you understand."
" Yeah I understand. what you're saying is that you're not going to waste your time. And how dare you refer to her as a something, don't you think she's a person with feelings?" Johnny barked in anger
" Of course I know she's a person and I also know that she's a well know hooker."
" And what your saying is that because of that, she doesn't deserve the same treatment that she would if she weren't."
" Now that's not fair Mr. Gage., we did all we could besides do you actually think she's alive?"
" Yes I do and I'm not going to give up on that." Johnny said with conviction storming out of the room
Watching Johnny leave the room in a anger, Barnes looked over to his long time friend." Hank you have to know me better then that." Barnes said defending himself
" I thought I did Pete, but I'm having a very hard time with this. It seems your department has forgot one thing, it's called compassion and you can't measure that in dollar signs." Stanley declared " They just don't realize how much that man loves that little girl, and lets not forget she's carrying his unborn child and that's absolutely tearing him apart. Oh he tries to hold faith but he knows that with each day that goes by the chance of finding her alive grows a little thinner." Stanley said with fustration
*****Three Days Later********
Watching Johnny walk into the day room. Stanley studied his friend's face. His eye's were rimmed with dark circles and his face was pale and drawn." Hey Pal how's it going." Stanley asked with worry" You alright?"
" Well it's going. and I'm fine." Johnny lied retreating back to the locker room " Roy is he going to be alright? it looks like he hasn't slept in days." Stanley asked his face dotted with concern
" I'm not sure Cap." Roy said leaving the room
Entering the locker room Roy found Johnny sitting inside his locker resting his arms on his knees. As Roy stood there he could hear the soft sobs escaping his partner. " Hey Johnny." he said softly making Johnny raise his head
" Hey Pally." Johnny said cutting Roy a ghost of a smile while his tears continued to stream down the sides of his face.
" What's up?" " How are you doing? really." Roy asked his voice heavy with concern
" Oh I'm okay, it's just so hard you know, I miss her so much Roy. To think I'll never hold her again or see her smile or get the chance to know our baby........" Johnny stopped." Yesturday I went to the store and out of pure habit I bought a Hershey bar. God she loved them." Johnny sobbed with a slight chuckle.
" It sounds to me like your giving up Junior." Roy said
" What else can I do Roy, I want to believe that she's........" Johnny stopped
" Junior did you know that Chris and Jenny still believe in Santa Claus. I and Jo have tried to tell them the truth. But they still believe in him anyways. Jenny says that you don't have to see something to know that it's not there. You have to have faith that Nicci is alive and well. If you stop believing in that then she'll be gone forever. Do you understand what I'm saying?" Roy soothed
" Yeah I do, and you're right. Thanks Partner." Johnny said As Johnny sat there alone, He knew in his heart that Roy was right he couldn't give up. Even though he was haunted by the memory of her as she layed lifeless in front of him. he had to go on. And as long as there was no proof telling him differant he had to assume that she was alive.
********One Week later*********
" Station 51, Structure fire 556 Woodland time out 11:27 "
"Station 51 KMG365." Stanley responded
..............
" I don't know about you but I'm starved." Roy announced bringing the squad to a stop " Me too." Johnny agreed following Roy into the day room
" Gage, here we found this on the table when we got back from the run." Stanley said handing Johnny the small white envelope. When Johnny opened it he was startled when his ring fell out onto the table." It's Nicci." He said as he bagan to read the letter.
" My dear Johnny,
I'm writing you this letter to let you know that I love you and I never meant to cause you or Roy any pain. For that I am deeply sorry. There's something you need to know Johnny, I was going to tell you that night but I never got the chance. I'm pregnant, So far I'm able to keep it a secret but it's only a matter of time before he learns the truth, And I'm scared to death of what he'll do when he finds out. Johnny there is nothing I want more then to be with you but I can't. I know that you were protecting me cause you love me and now I'm doing the same for you. I can't let you hurt anymore. I hope that in time you will understand the reasons why. You see in my heart I know my life is truely over. You need to get on with your life without me. I dont' deserve you Johnny and you dont' deserve to die for me. You are a good person with a future, I'm not going to let you throw it all away. Just always remember that I love you, I'll think of you with fond memories and no matter what you'll always have a special place in my heart.
With all my love Nicci
A burst of happiness fell on Johnny as he finished reading the letter. Even though the words was like a knife, he also found new hope. For Nicci was alive. He knew in his heart that it was only a matter of time before he had her back. and that no matter what Knuckles did it wasn't enough to distroy what they have. With those thoughts Johnny walked to the phone to call the police. After Johnny hung up the phone he walked back to the table.
" What'd they say?" Chet asked
" Nothing much, I didn't get to talk to anyone but a secretary. She said that she would pass on the infromation."
" Yeah but do you think she will?" Roy asked
" I don't know she was rather short with me on the phone. And the police have all but given up on her. I do know that I'm not going to sit back and wait for them, I'll find her myself." Johnny said with purpose.
" Just remember Pal, we're behind you all the way. We will do everything in our power to help you find her. Won't we?" Stanley said
" You bet we will." Roy said with the other nodding their heads
" Thanks guys."Johnny smiled in appreciation
...............One week later.......
For a solid week the guys went out in search of Nicci the only contact between their personal vehicles were walkie talkies that were perchased just for the occasion. Each one searching aimlessly down the strip hoping to bring Nicci home to safety. Even though each night brought them a new disappointment they wasn't about to give up. They knew that Nicci would be found.
........The next morning........
" Squad 51 unknown type injury 111 East Main." Time out 12:23."
" Squad 51 KMG 365." Stanley announced
Mid way to the address the dispatcher came over the speaker." Squad 51 cancel."
" Hey Roy, since we're so close to the strip what do you say........" Johnny started
" I'm already on it." Roy announced.
Slowly driving down the strip both Roy and Johnny gazed out the window each holding onto faith that she would turn up. Suddenly Johnny unexpectedly saw one of Nicci's friends crounched down next to a building. " Hey Roy stop, I see someone that may be able to help." He announced As soon as Roy brought the squad to a hault, Johnny jumped out to the passengers seat and headed straight for the girl followed by Roy." Tricks?" He asked crounching down next to her. When she picked up her head he let out a gasp seeing she had a black eye and a bleeding lip.
" I'll go get the equipment and call it in." Roy said
" Tricks what happened?" Johnny asked reaching for her
" Oh nothing just a bad party, Mr. Gage." She said pushing his hand away
" Well let us have a look." Roy said
" What brings you by here anyway? You don't belong here." Tricks said
" I was wondering if you saw Nicci anywhere." Johnny asked in pleading
" No I havent'." She replied standing up using Roy's shoulder for a crutch.
Looking at the girl in front of him. Johnny could see her paled body tremble as she got up." Can I ask you something?" he asked helping her to steady herself" When was the last time you ate?" Johnny wanted to know
" I don't know, yesturday I guess." She said shaking off the dizzyness
" Here sit down I'll contact Rampart." Roy said setting up the biophone.
" No I'll be fine, I'm just tired, I was just resting that's all." Tricks lied
Knowing that she had the right to turn down treatment. Roy changed his mind about Rampart. " Well can we at least give you a ride somewhere." Johnny asked wanting to help.
" Maybe, I guess that would be okay." Tricks said
............
Roy pulled up to the address that Tricks requested " Is this it ?" Roy questioned seeing what appeared to be an abandoned shack.
" Yeah," Tricks said getting out of the squad. " What did you exspect a mansion?" She asked looking at their puzzled faces
Johnny got out then pulling out a twenty form his front pocket he handed it to her.
" What's this?" She asked in surprise
"I want you to get something to eat." Johnny said
" Why? what do you want me to do for you." Tricks asked
" Nothing I don't want anything." Johnny said.
" Just do me a favor, if you see Nicci let me know. I miss her and not having her is killing me." He pleaded
Without a responce, Tricks turned to go into what she called home. Then stopping she turned and ran to Johnny climbing back into the squad. " Mr. Gage." She said
" Yeah." Johnny said
" You know I use to think there was no way any of us would ever get rich on the strip. I was wrong, Nicci got rich when she found you. I will do what I can to help you find her." Tricks promised
.............
Rolling to a stop in the bay Johnny and Roy were greeted by the Captain." Gage, DeSoto, Lieutenant Crocket is here to see both of you." Captain announced
Strolling in the day room they were greeted by the Lieutenant." Mr. Gage, Mr. DeSoto." Crockett greeted extending his hand to them
" Hi." They both returned sitting down at the table
" I guess you two are wondering why I stopped by. I was going over some cases that were some how over looked, if you will." He started. " One of the cases that sticks in my mind is one that involves a string of robberies that had to do with senior citizens getting their social security checks ripped off about six months ago. And the prime suspect is a local gang banger Clinton Perry he goes by the street name of Knuckles. He's the same guy that is responcible for the attack on you two." Crockett stopped fumbleing through his brief case. " Oh yes here they are." He stated taking out two pieces of paper." I have here both of your statements you gave to the detectives and you both mention the name Nicole Rogers and Knuckles. According to the police logs Nicole has been arrested eight times, six time for prostitution and twice for possesion of heroin. Now I personally believe that if we find Nicole or Nicci, she may know something about the other case. Tell me do you know the where abouts of Ms. Rogers?" He concluded
"No we don't but we're not giving up. We know she's with Knuckles we just don't know where. We did come across one of her friends and she said she would help us find Nicci." Johnny said with his hopes rising
" Good, because off the record it wouldn't break my heart if I was the one that cought that son of a bitch. Now what we should do is focus on locating Ms. Rogers because I have a feeling where she is, Knuckles is not far behind." Crockett concluded." Well thanks for your time and we will stay in contact. If you see or hear anything let me know. Here is my card with my home phone as well as the office. call me if you hear or find out anything no matter what it is. call me."
****************
Laying on a mattress on the floor Nicci curled up in the fetal position. As she layed there she craddled her unborn child. She could now butterflies in her growing stomach. " Oh baby I'm so sorry." She cried softly. She knew that it was just a matter of time before Knuckles found out. Even though she was terrified to leave she knew in her heart that if her baby was going to have a chance to live she had to take the risk. She was so wraped up in her thoughts that she did not hear Knuckles
" HEY, DIDN'T YOU HEAR ME YOU STUPID BITCH? I SAID TO GET YOUR FAT ASS UP." Knuckles barked out kicking her in the back of the head.
" I'm sorry, I didn't hear you." She whimpered staggering to her feet
" Well clean the shit out of you ears, I said to get up and get ready you got a job to do." Knuckles said grabbing her by the arm and pushing her into the bathroom
...........
Standing scared and lonely on a street corner Nicci waited for her first customer for the night. She wanted nothing more then to run as fast as her legs could carry her but she knew that Knuckles was there. She couldn't see him but she could feel his cold eyes on her. Finally a man came up to her.
" Hey you open for business?" He asked undressing her with his dark shady eyes
" Yes." Nicci whispered hanging her head to hide her tears.
" Good, I only have an hour to kill so I don't want to waste time." The man said walking Nicci to his car.
...........
Laying on her back it was all she could do is to not cry. Feeling this man that wasn't Johnny go down on her was like a bad dream in which she could not awake.
" Hey I thought you said you open for business?" He asked noticing the tears running down Nicci's cheeks.
" Oh I am." Nicci lied through her sobs
" Hey look I'm not going to force you, Just forget it." The man growled standing up while reaching for his clothes
" No don't leave." She pleaded she knew that if she didn't make some money Knuckles would beat her like he's done so many times before.
" Hey I told you, I'm not into forcing, You're either willing or not. and you need to decide that yourself."He spit angerly slamming the door behind him
Picking herself up Nicci walked into the bathroom. Looking over to the shelf she spotted razor blade complements of the motel. Reaching for the razor she began to cry. This is the only way out for us Baby. She thought turning on the water. Putting the razor to her wrist she began to tremble, her blood streaming down as she applied more pressure. Suddenly without warning she heard the slamming of the front door. Dropping the razor as she spun around she saw Knuckles standing there in the doorway with his eyes filled with fire.
" WHAT THE FUCK ARE YOU DOING?" Knuckles attacked grabbing her by the neck
" Nothing, I'm not doing anything." Nicci whimpered in fear.
" NOTHING HUH, TELL ME WHY YOUR TRICK TOLD ME THAT YOU WEREN'T PUTTING OUT." Knuckles growled slamming her into the wall.
" I......I don't.......know..... I'm sorry........." Nicci managed
" YOUR SORRY I'LL TEACH YOU TO BE SORRY." Knuckles declared punching her in the head making her fall to the floor.
"Shielding her head she cried." Please don't it hurts."
" HURT, YOU WORTHLESS PIECE OF TRASH, I'LL SHOW YOU WHAT HURTS." Knuckles yelled grabbing her head hitting it repeatedly against the side of the tub." I OUGHT TO FUCKING KILL YOU." Knuckles said while coutinuing the beating.
......Two hours later.......
Nicci woke up beaten and bloody. Staggering to her feet she wimpered out in pain." God why doesn't he just kill us?" She cried holding on to her battered belly
............. the next day.......
" Gage there's someone to see you." Stanley greeted as the squad came to a stop.
Strolling into the day room, Johnny spotted Tricks sitting at the table. "Hey Tricks." Johnny greeted plopping down in a chair.
Hanging her head she greeted" Hi Mr Gage." Then picking up her head she looked at the man in front of her. "Mr Gage I got some news for you about Nicci." She started.
"Did you see her? Where?" Johnny hoped
"No I didn't see her but I heard that Knuckles beat the shit out of her last night." She said ." Word has it is that he got pissed off when she wouldn't perform for a customer."
"Oh no, well is she okay." Stanely asked full of concern
" I guess so, I don't really know some of my home girls said that they saw her staggering down the street." She said
" Well did they say where she went?" Marco asked
"No they didn't. Hey Mr. Gage, can I ask you a question? Is Nicci pregnant ? Tricks asked
" Yes she is she should be about four months now. Why?" Johnny asked
"Well it's just my groupies said that her belly kind of stuck out ." Tricks said. " Mr. Gage I know how now that the stakes are very high and I'll do what I can to help you." She finished
Even though it was hard on Johnny to learn that the love of his life was hurting, he felt relieved to know that his family was still alive . But for how long he didn't know." Tell me something, Does he know?" Johnny asked
"No I don't think so, I think he's to stupid to figure it out." Tricks said
..........One week later..........
" I think Knuckles will be proud that we made fifty dollars last night." Nicci said speaking at her rounded stomach " In fact I'm kind of hungry why don't we get something to eat just you and I." Nicci finished as she started to cross the street only to be distracted by the roar of sirens coming to a stop in front of the small cafe. Seeing that a crowd was forming she decided that it would be safe to watch at a distance. Even if she couldn't be with Johnny she could still feel close to him.Look baby that's your daddy. She thought seeing Johnny from a far.
" Well sir, I think your going to be okay, but you should go to the hospital and get looked at." Roy suggested
"No I'm just fine." The man said getting to his feet
Packing up the equipment Johnny concluded"Okay well it's your choice."
"Heading for the squad Roy took a glance at the crowd. Stoping short he spotted Nicci. " NICCI." He said rushing to the crowd.
" Johnny I just saw Nicci." Roy announced Running over to the crowd Roy and Johnny searched the crowd with no luck.
" Excuse me did any of you notice where the girl that was just standing here went." Johnny asked pleading to the crowd
" I think she went that way." A man said pointing down the street
Roy and Johnny headed in the direction stated searching in every store, until the dispatcher interupted. " Squad 51 unknown type rescue 3322 Westmond time out 12:32
................ Two hours later......
Roy and Johnny strolled into the day room " Are you sure it was her?" Johnny asked dropping in a chair
" Yeah, at least I think it was. It must have been why would she run away if it wasn't?" Roy concluded
" Who." Chet asked
" Roy thinks he saw Nicci in the crowd during a run." Johnny answered not knowing what to think. He wanted to believe it was her. but he didn't want to get his hopes up
..............
Letting out a sob Nicci walked into the dimly lit room. " Where have you been." Shaggy spit.
" I....... I....just got back....." She said shyly
"Yeah well Boss is out looking for you now and he's really pissed." Shaggy warned
" It's not the first." She said to herself laying down on the mattress to get some much needed sleep
Nicci just barely dozed off when the sudden slam of the door woke her. " Where the fuck have you been." Knuckles barked walking up to Nicci." I've been out looking for you worthless ass." Knuckles said grabbing her by the arm.
" I just got in." Nicci's cried feeling his nails embedding her skin.
" Yeah well how much did ya get?" Knuckles asked
" About fifty." Nicci said
"FIFTY IS THAT ALL FOR ALL NIGHT?" Knuckles barked" BULL SHIT, YOU'RE LYING WHERE'S THE REST OF IT." Knuckles demanded shaking her by the arm.
"I'm not lying to you this is all." Nicci sobbed holding the money up in her trembling hand
"YOU FUCKING BITCH WHAT THE FUCK AM I GOING TO DO WITH FIFTY BUCKS?" Knuckles growled
"I'm sorry I tried." Nicci cried in her deffence
"YEAH WELL YOU DIDN'T TRY HARD ENOUGH NOW I'M GOING TO TAKE IT OUT OF YOUR ASS." Knuckles said pulling her shirt apart allowing buttons to scatter around the room. Taking her swollen breasts roughly in his hands he squeezed them causing Nicci to cry out in pain. Seeing the pain in her eyes, he shot her a cruel smile ripping her panties off. Then plowing his unconstricked dick in her tender snatch. Feeding on her whimpers of pain he spit "Oh does that hurt, you little bitch." Slamming his meat hard into her region making her cry out in agony. " Dirty fucking whore take it." Knuckles spat plunging his exploding cock deep inside
................
While drawing water in the tub she walked over to the medicine cabinet. Starring at the contents she picked up a bottle of pills. Holding the bottle in her trembleing hand. " It's no use baby I give up, I can't take no more without your dad I'm nothing. " she cried.
Leaning back in the tub she poured the pills in her palm. Allowing her thoughts to stray on the man she loved " Oh Johnny I love you and I hope that you can find it in your heart to forgive me." She said softly putting her hand up to her mouth. With her hands shaking she began to cry. Then snapping back to reality " I'm sorry Johnny." She cried throwing the pills across the room. Pulling her knees to her chest she sobbed.
***********
Laying on the mattress Nicci was lost in slumber. Suddenly without warning Knuckles and his goons barged into the gloomy room. As she layed there motionless she peeked open her eyes to see Knuckles holding a brown paper bag.
" How much did we get boss." Shaggy asked in suspence.
"Probably no more then what we usually get when we knock off a place." Scar said watching Knuckles pour the cash onto the cluttered table
"Will you guys shut the fuck up." Blade barked looking nerviously out the window. Seeing not a soul in sight he concluded to himself that it was safe for him to join the others.
Getting up the nerve, Nicci got up and walked over to the broken chair in front of the window. As she sat in the chair she could make out whispering voices coming from the outside. Looking out the window she could see shadows of figures standing in a huttle next to three cars. It can't be. She thought to herself. For the first time she was glad to see the police. Maybe they can help us, She added to her thoughts. Here's our chance baby. She concluded walking up to the table.
Knowing that if she told Knuckles that the police were there he and his goons would be destracted. Giving her the chance to run. " Hey Knuckles.....I......I thought you would like to know that the police are outside." She stuttered out the warning in a whisper.
Hearing her words, Knuckles and his goons bolted to the window. Seeing her opportunity she slowly walked to the door pulling it open
Hearing the slight squeak of the door, Chains turned his head just in time to see Nicci run out the door." GET HER, SHE'S GETTING AWAY." Chains announced
"GOD DAMN BITCH." Knuckles screamed running after her. Hearing Knuckles running footsteps behind her, she picked up her pace sending a sharp pain in her stomach. Although the pain was sharp enough to bring her to her knees she knew she couldn't stop this was her chance to be freed from her living hell. Just as she opened the outside door and stepped onto the porch she felt Knuckles arm as he wrapped it forcefully around her neck" YOU STUPID WORTHLESS BITCH. WHERE DO YOU THINK YOUR GOING? BACK TO THAT BUTT FUCKING FIREMAN?" Knuckles spat grabbing her by the hair dragging her back inside
Nicci didn't know that Lieutenant Crocket recconized her and got on the radio to get in touch of the station
.........
"I'm sorry." Nicci cried
"SORRY I'LL SHOW YOU SORRY I'M GOING TO TEACH YOU TO BE SORRY." Knuckles spit out in anger throwing her on the floor
"No please no."She cried trying to protect her delicate condition from his fist connecting with every inch of her face and feeling him kick her repeatedly in the stomach
"Boss we better get the fuck out of here before the pigs bust us." Chains suggested seeing that police were getting closer to setting their plan in motion
Stopping his attack he agreed." DON'T THINK THIS IS OVER YOU WORTHLESS WHORE." He warned dragging her out of the room while his gang followed him out the back door to a van. Which with the exception of this time was used in previous robberies.
............At the station......
" Station 51, unknown type rescue. 112 North Main time out 11:23
"Station 51, KMG 365." Stanley responded carrying his tired body to the Engine
...................
The squad and engine came to a stop in front of the house five minutes later after the call."What do ya got here? and why did you call for us 36 is only three blocks away?" Stanley asked walking over to Crockett. while his men followed.
" We have Knuckles and his goons in the house and I thought it only right that you be here Mr. Gage." Crockett said looking at Johnny " You see, Nicci is in there with him. She tried to escape, and got as far a the porch when Knuckles grabbed her and forced her back inside. I could hear her screaming and there is dout in my mind that he's beating her." Crockett added " I thought you should be here because she'll probably need medical attention."
Johnny stood there worry washing his face. He didn't know what kind of shape Nicci would be in. He knew what Knuckles was capable of and that Nicci wouldn't stand a chance." Well why are you guys just standing here? You have to do something to get her out." He said his voice a mixture of plea and fear.
"We have the SWAT on the way. and for now that's all we can do. We don't want push him into hurting her more or worse killing her."
Johnny and the rest waited helplessly for the SWAT team to arrive. "Man what is taking them so long?" Johnny asked impatiently looking at his watch seeing that fifteen minutes have past.
"Mr. Gage we're doing everything that we can for now." Crockett assured
"Yeah well I'm not going to wait around for you. I'll get her out myself." Johnny said with purpose heading for the house.
Grabbing onto Johnny's arm Crockett spun him around." Now look, the last thing we need is you to go in there half cocked risking getting yourself killed, We have got to handle the situation very carefully."
"Yeah well I can't just stand here waiting for him to kill her." Johnny protested
" Mr. Gage listen do you hear anything." Crockett asked." Well do you? We haven't heard anything from her in about twenty minutes." Crockett concluded thinking the worse
Walking back to his friends, Johnny realized that he didn't have no other choice but to wait and hope for the best.
" Hey Johnny she's going to be okay, you have to believe that." Chet said trying to confort his friend with words he didn't really believe himself
" Chet's right." Stanley flattly agreed " Why don't you go back and sit in the squad and save your strenght." He suggested
Taking Stanley's suggestion Johnny headed to the squad only to be stopped by the SWAT team arriving.
The SWAT quickly got geared up and got to their positions." THIS IS THE POLICE, COME OUT WITH YOUR HANDS IN THE AIR." Crockett ordered through the outside mic. With no answer he continued " YOU HAVE FIVE MINUTES OR WE'LL COME IN." Crockett warned.
Five minutes later the SWAT entered the building. As Johnny and the rest over heard Crockett curse in the Walkie Talkie they had a feeling that something went terribly wrong with their plan. Their thoughts were confirmed when they saw the SWAT walk back out without Knuckles or his gang. More importantly without Nicci. Crockett hung his head then slowly walked over to the Captain and his crew. " I don't know what to say, I was so sure that they were still in there." Crockett said looking over at Johnny
"What happened where's Nicci." Johnny asked
"Well we heard from a wittness that Knuckles and his gang escaped out the back door. The wittness said that they left in a dark colored van about ten minutes before you arrived." Crockett explained " They apparently took Nicci with them. and according to Officer Brown somebody's been hurt because their is some blood on the floor. I have no douts that it is Nicci."
Feeling his world shatter, all Johnny could do is sit down on the engine's running board. No longer able to contain his tears he sobbed.
" Hey I'm sorry. but we did all we could do. The good news is that the wittness gave us a very good discription on the van along with the lisence number now we have an APB out on the van right now, and it's only a matter of time before he's spotted. You have to trust me when I say we're going to find him"
" Yeah and where have I heard that one before." Johnny said walking to the squad. With a jolt of anger he punched the side of the squad then climbed in and slammed the door.
After wittnessing the attack on the door Crockett turned and looked at Captain Stanley. " Is he going to be okay?" He asked
" I don't know, I just don't know." Stanley said
**********
After spending half the night at a structure fire the guys were finally rolling into the Station. All heading to the latrine to wash up before going to the dorm for some much needed rest. All stopped short hearing sobs coming from the day room. " I wonder who that could be?" Stanley asked heading for the day room as his crew followed.
Seeing Tricks sitting on the couch with her head in her hands sobbing Johnny started walking over to her. "Tricks what's the matter." Johnny needed to know
At first look at Johnny Tricks leaped from the couch. exposing her blackened eye" Oh thank God you're back." She sobbed
"Tricks what happened, are you okay?" Johnny asked worriedly
"I'm fine.....It's.....it's Nicci." She said in between sobs
At the first sound of her name Johnny feared the worst." What about Nicci , where is she?" He demanded. Looking at the look on her face, Johnny he could tell that it wasn't good news. But still he needed to hear what she had to say "Tricks you have to tell me."
"Oh Mr. Gage, something horrible has happened. Knuckles, Knuckles found out she was pregnant." She stopped letting out a sob." I guess what happened is earlier Nicci turned a trick for one of Knuckles homies and he told Knuckles that Nicci wasn't a bad fuck considering she was pregnant. Anyway Knuckles was furious and.......and........" She stopped hanging her head down Grabbing onto her arms he demanded
" Tricks what, what did he do, you have to tell me."
"He and his losers fucked her then they kicked the shit out of her, I saw her tonight in the coffin about an twenty minutes ago and she was hurt real bad, worst then what I've ever seen before and .......she..........was crying, She's so terrified she wouldn't let me near her. When I tried to get close to her she decked me." She said pointing to her darkened eye.
"Where, can you show us where she is?" Stanley asked flooded with fear.
"Yes I can , but there is something you need to know. after she hit me, I heard her say that it didn't matter anymore and that she folds. whetever that meant, anyway she said that she was sorry to you and the baby." She finished
With fear going straight to the depths of their souls the guys scurried to the vehicles" Ms. you ride in the squad and show us where." Captain Stanley ordered then getting on the radio to dispatch " LA we have a still alarm location is unknown at this time please stand by for further information." Stanley announced into the mic
"10- 4 Station 51, time out 12:27"
................
With sirens blasting the engine and squad Rolled to a stop "There that's the coffin, it's called a coffin because of the way it's shaped." Tricks said pointing at a dark alley. Climbing out of the squad Roy and Johnny headed straight to the alley
"Mike I want you to call it in and get a hold of Lieutenant Crockett. Chet, Marco grab a couple of flash lights and come with us." Stanley ordered
With the flash lights being the only souce of light they walked down the alley. All stopping short at the sight of Nicci. As for Johnny his heart broke seeing her huttled in a corner wimpering out in fear. Slowly walking up closer he could see blood streaming down her arm as she held the piece of glass tightly in the palm of her hand as her tiny body trembled. Crounching down next to her he whispered. " Nicci it's me Johnny." While the rest them walked up. Without a response he whispered " Nicci.." While placing his hand gently on her head
At first touch she drew her knees tighter to her chest. " Please no more." She whimpered in fear pushing his hand away
"Nicci.please don't be scared." Johnny soothed." No ones going to hurt you."
" NO GET AWAY FROM ME." She demanded raising her bloody hand to shield herself from harm."Please just, just go."
She whimpered
Seeing that Johnny was having trouble, Roy walked up to help. " Nicci we're here to help you." Roy said trying to take her by the arm
Feeling danger she raised her hand holding the glass cutting Roy in the face in deffence,making Roy jump back holding his cheek in pain." I SAID GET THE HELL AWAY FROM ME." Nicci cried out hysterically rocking her withdrawn body back and forth
As Johnny examined her, it was clear to him that she was very frightened of all of them including himself. Although it was breaking his heart he thought it best to back off and not to push her. Getting up he walked back to the others." You okay Roy?" Johnny asked worriedly
"Yeah I'm fine, just a scratch." Roy assured Looking over to Nicci,
Johnny watched as she shook uncontrollably. Then looking at his Captain he said " I don't know what to do Cap, she's so terrified of us it's like she don't even know who we are. She don't even know who I am." Johnny said looking back over to Nicci,
" Well we can't do nothing for her here, we need to get her out so that she can be treated." Stanley said then studying the situation he gathered his men together. " Okay here's what we'll do." He started " Mike, you go to the squad and lay a blanket down on the ground, Chet you and Marco get the equipment set up." He ordered before turning his attention to Johnny and Roy. " Roy you get on one side and Johnny you get on the other, I'll grab her feet. Now I don't have to tell you she is terrified and there's no dout she'll put up a fight so we have to be ready." Captain said
Following their Captains orders, Johnny and Roy got on each side of her while Stanley got down at her feet. On the count of three they scooped her up in their arms being carefull not to cause injury to her or the baby knowing that she was in danger of miscarry. As Stanley predicted Nicci started screaming "NO NO NO LEAVE ME ALONE." while thrashing her tiny body as they carried her out to the waiting blanket, while being greeted by Lieutenant Crockett
"Is this Ms. Rogers?" Crockett said being stuned by her actions
"Yes it is now excuse me." Stanley interupted pushing his way through
Tricks gasped at the sight of her friend." Nicci." she cried while running over to her being stopped by Chet "No I need to be with her."
"No let them do their job, Nicci will be just fine." Chet assured holding Tricks tight in his arms for comfort.
Laying her on the blanket she immediately went to her side drawing her knees tightly to her chest,crying hysterically while her body continued to shake. " Nicci it's okay." Johnny soothed taking every bit of strenght he had to calm her as well as himself. He knew in his heart that he had to remain strong not just for him but for her and his unborn child as well " It really is okay." He assured placing a hand on her head. Feeling something sticky he removed his hand letting out a gasp finding blood on his hand. " Oh Nicci." He said softly.
"I'll get her BP."Roy said picking up the bp cuff.
At the touch of Roy Nicci jerked her arm away." No please don't." She sobbed in hysterics
Seeing that she was frightened of him he pulled back. The last thing he wanted to do is frighten her more." Lets contact Rampart and see what they want us to do, We can't bo anything until she calms down." He said reaching for the biophone. "Rampart this is county 51, how do you read." Roy spoke into the receiver
" Go ahead 51, we read you loud and clear." Brackett responded
"Rampart we have a female approximatlly twenty three years of age who has been serverely beaten, Victim has numerous laserations and contuions on her face,the palm of her hand and has a deep laseration on the back of her head The victim is also seven months pregnant Rampart and there is sign of vaginal bleeding.
"51 do you have a set of vitals. "
"Negative Rampart, the victim is to distraught at this time
"51 we need the vitals to accurately treat her, try to calm her and keep me posted." Brackett said being able to hear her screams from the other end
Looking down at Nicci Johnny didn't know what to do. He knew that Brackett was right." Half Pint I want you to calm down. Do you hear me half Pint, I want you to listen to me." Johnny whispered as he started to sing" Earth Angel, Earth Angel will you be mine, My darling dear. Love you for all time. I'm just a fool a fool in love with you." Johnny continued while stroking her blood stained hair.
Listening to his voice she looked at him then reached her hand up " Hi Johnny." She softly
"Hi Half Pint.." Johnny whispered then taking her hand in his, he gently kissed her fingers " God I missed you." Allowing the words to escape his lips.
Seeing that she was calming down, Roy got her vitals and relayed them to Rampart. Rampart in turn gave the go ahead to start an IV
Suddenly without warning she cried out in pain." Johnny it hurts, it hurts Johnny" while grabbing her stomach.
"Rampart the victim is now complaining of pains in the abdomen, and the bleeding is now more evident." Roy announced concerned for the baby.
"10-4 51 get ready for a premature birth we will stand by with the needed epuipment.
" Cap, you want to get the OB box? Johnny we need to turn her on back so that we can check her." Roy finished.
Laying her on her back Johnny let out a gasp seeing all the dark bruises and welts on her fragile stomach "Oh my God, what kind of a monster is this person." Stanley said as he and the rest wittnessed the marks.
Suddenly without warning Tricks let out a deafening scream "WATCH OUT, HE'S GOT A GUN!!!!!!!." Seeing Knuckles and his goons running towards the scene.
Before anyone could react, Knuckles grabbed Johnny by the back of the neck shoving him into the Captain and the rest of the men. " YOU TO, GET THE FUCK AWAY FROM HER." Knuclkes demanded pointing the gun at Roy. Roy had no choice but to obey. Then grabbing Nicci by the hair he pulled her in his arms holding her tightly by the throat. " OKAY NOBODY MOVE OR I SWARE TO GOD I'LL KILL THIS BITCH AND HER FUCKING HALF BREED BASTURD RIGHT HERE." Knuckles warned pointing the gun at Nicci's head
"JUST GO AHEAD AND KILL ME. I'D RATHER BE DEAD THEN TO SPEND ANOTHER SECOND WITH YOU." Nicci cried holding her stomach. the blood now gushing from between her legs
"SHUT UP BITCH." Knuckles demanded hitting Nicci in the head with the barrel repeatedly until blood streamed down the side of her face
"Okay now no body panic." Crockett said resting his hand on his piece ready for anything.
Then ripping her shirt off Knuckles revealed her black and blue chest to the guys infront of her. Then clutching onto her breast her brutally squeezed it causing her to cry out." Yeah you like that don't you bitch,yeah and the guys like it too. You are nothing but a good piece of ass you dirty rotten whore."Knuckles said coldly grinning at her." I bet your butt fucking fireman liked it when I fucked you in front of him and his buddy." Knuckles ended in laughter.
Seeing the girl he loved being disgraced by this man was more then what Johnny could take. Feeling all his anger surface he blew. "STOP IT KNUCKLES YOU LEAVE HER ALONE." Johnny demanded.
"Oh you think you're big enough to stop me Pretty Boy?" Knuckles challenged
" I can't fight you I'm on duty, but trust me nothing would make me happier then to knock the shit out of you right now." Johnny said taking a step to Knuckles
Shoving Nicci hard into the ground, Knuckles then walked up to Johnny. "Oh is that right." Knuckles said pushing Johnny back. Then looking over at Nicci Knuckles saw that Mike was trying to help her get to the saftey of the crowd. "DON'T EVEN FUCKING TOUCH HER OR I SWARE TO GOD I'LL KILL YA." Knuckles warned pointing the gun to Mike.
"You're crazy, you're going to kill, you know that." Mike said in protest inching his way to Nicci
Cocking the hammer back Knuckles fired a shot coming within inches between Nicci and Mike making the rest cry out in fear." I MEAN IT GET THE FUCK AWAY FROM HER." Knuckles spit
At that point Mike and the rest felt helpless, They knew that someone would die tonight. They could only stand back and watch in horror and hope for the best
Johnny stared at Knuckles every ounce of his face lined with anger.More angery then he had ever felt in his life. For just a moment he looked at Nicci, She was now sitting in a pool of blood and he knew that if she didn't get medical attention it would not be long before she bled to death . Looking back at Knuckles Johnny spoke. " Knuckles I don't know what makes you tick but if you really want to kill her then do it but you might as well kill me to because rather we're dead or alive we'll always be together." Johnny said knowing that Knuckles had upper hand cause of the gun he was holding but still Johnny didn't care. He meant it when he said he would die for Nicci
Johnny and Knuckles stood there in silence for what seemed like a life time starring into each others eyes both filled with complete rage until a loud noice broke the silence. When Knuckles turned his head to see what the noice was, Johnny saw his chance and grabbed Knuckles arm to try to get the gun away from him. As Knuckles faught to keep control Johnny fell back taking Knuckles down with him. While they struggled for the upper hand the gun went off sending everyone into a state of panic.
Hearing the gun fire, Nicci ignored her pain and used every bit of strenght she had left to crawl over to Johnny. " NO JOHNNY OH GOD NO........" She cried seeing the blood spot forming on his shirt " Oh God why did you go and get shot for me." She cried
After a few moments Johnny slid out from under Knuckles" Nicci I'm okay." He said pulling her in his arms while Roy ran to Knuckles
"Son of a fucking bitch I'm shot." Knuckles gasped laying on the ground bleeding to death. " Hey Pretty Boy." Knuckles strangled out gaging on his blood
Johnny crawled over to Knuckles to see what he wanted.
"You son of a bitch you were surpose to be the one to die." Knuckles said fighting for his last breath
"Yeah maybe that's true, but you see there's a differance between you and I. If I died it would have been with honor." Johnny said looking into the soul of the dieing man
"Go to hell." Knuckles faught
"You first, and when you do get there tell them John Gage sent you." Johnny concluded
After Roy announced Knuckles was dead he quickly turned his attention to Nicci Getting up from the ground Johnny was congradulated by his friends for they were relieved of the out come of the show down. Johnny stopped and walked over at Knuckles gangs. As he looked into there eyes he could see for the first time these were not men but scared and lost little boys. There leader was dead and they had no one else to turn to . With those thoughts, Johnny began to speak." Is this what you want in your life? I mean you guys have so many good years ahead of you, are you willing to throw them away like he did?."
None of them had an answer but they knew that the man in front of them was making sence. Through tears Blade spoke. " Mr Gage , We are so sorry for what we did and I know that you will never forgive us but believe me when I say I'm sorry." Blade finished hanging his head.
" Blade I do forgive you, if Jesus can forgive the worlds sins then I can forgive yours . But I will never forget." Johnny said
"Mr. Gage," Shaggy spoke." I know we don't deserve help but we know that you helped Nicci get clean and helped her get her life back, the life that we took away.but I wonder if........if you would do the same for us." Shaggy stuttered in a whisper afraid to be turned down
"Yes I'll help you." Johnny said shaking each of their hands as the police placed hand cuffs around each of their wrists.
*********
Roy and the others walked through the long corridor leading to ICU nursery. Peering through the plate glass window they could see Johnny dressed in scrubs gently stroking his daughters delicate arm through the holes of the incubator. She looked so frail having the life surport tube in her mouth being set in place by strips of tape across her face."Man she's tiny ." Stanley said under his breath.
"She sure is, she's no bigger then a breath of air." Chet agreed Sencing his friend's eyes on him, Johnny looked up with tears streaming down his face. Just before leaving his daughter's side to join his friends he looked back down " Please God let her be okay." He whispered in plea
"Hey guys." Johnny greeted in a whisper.
"Hi how's she doing?" Roy asked with worry
"Oh Roy, she only weighs two pounds four ounces and only fifteen inches long. They have her on life surport just so that she might live through the night.It will be at least a week before they can take the gauze off her eyes because they're not developed." Johnny concluded looking at his daughter being swallowed up by half a dozon tubes going from one end to the other
"Well you have to know she's going to be okay, I mean she's a Gage and just like you, you've survived some pretty sticky situations." Marco tried to assure
" I hope you're right Marco." Johnny said not taking his eyes off her. Watching as the nurse took more blood from his daughters foot. Then got a new set of vitals.
"So how's Nicci doing?" Captain Stanley asked
"They gave her a seditive so that she can rest. Brackett says that she should make a full recovery at least physically." Johnny said hanging his head with a new set of worry
"Well that's good, isn't it?" Mike said
"I don't know Mike, in the ambulance after the birth Roy showed her the baby and she looked away." Johnny said.
"Well it's been very traumatizing to her it'll take some time with every thing that has happened. I mean we felt a little of her pain when we were kidnapped, Hell I still have night mares and that was only one day. She has years of abuse to get past. It's going to take her a long time to deal with everything." Roy concluded
"Yeah I know." Johnny agreed
"Well I guess we better get going, The squad will remain out of service until we can get replacements." Stanley said
"Okay thanks Cap." Johnny said shaking his Captains hand then pulling him close for a friendly hug. " Thanks all you guys for being here, it means a lot to me."
...............One week later....
For a week straight Johnny spent every hour of every second at Rampart with his young family. " Hey Junior." Roy greeted walking up to his partner in the cafeteria.
With the look of exaustion, Johnny looked up at his partner " Hi." He greeted then hanging his head " How are things going with you?"
"Oh I'm okay, Jo and the kids came home last night."Roy said taking a seat at the table
"Oh yeah that's good.How are they doing?"Johnny asked not making eye contact
" They're doing good, I talked to Jo about everything that has happened, She was upset at first but in the end she understood that I was only trying to protect her and the kids. She was surprised when I told her you were a father."
"Well that's understandable they were gone for almost a year." Johnny said
Sencing that something was bothering his partner, Roy placed his hand on Johnny's arm. " Junior what's wrong, How's Nicci and the baby?"
"Abby's doing real good, she's almost three pounds Brackett says that she might be able to come home in a couple of weeks or so if she gains enough weight. We'll have to hook her up to a sleep monitor everytime she sleeps because she stops breathing ."Johnny explained
" Well that's good news and what about Nicci how's she doing?"
" She's fine, she's being released in the morning but." Johnny trailed his voice riddled with worry
" But what? what's wrong with Nicci?" Roy asked worriedly
"I don't know Roy, it's like she don't want anything to do with Abby. She wouldn't even help me pick out a name and she refuses to hold her." Johnny said his voice filled with confussion
"Well just give her time it's only been a week.This is still very new to her. I wouldn't worry about it she'll come around." Roy assured just as Brice walked up
"You ready to go Roy?" Brice asked holding the drug box
"Yeah I guess." Roy said getting up from the table.Then turning to Johnny he placed his hand on his shoulder." Hey don't worry, everything will work out for the best just wait and see." He assured patting Johnny on the back before leaving
.............
Walking up to Nicci's bed and seeing that she was awake Johnny sat on the edge of the bed " Hey Half Pint, how are you feeling?" He asked running his fingers through her hair
" I'm okay, how are you?" Nicci asked taking his hand in hers
" I'm okay, Abby's doing much better she's tiny but she's getting stronger every day. They take her out of the incubator for feedings and baths. With a little luck she'll be able to come home in a couple of weeks." Johnny said
"Oh, I guess I'll be going home in the morning." Nicci said changing the subject.
Johnny looked at Nicci with a dumb founded look until he noticed that the nurse was wheeling Abby into the room. There's my Quarter Pint" Johnny greeted picking up the tiny bundle " Nicci you want to hold her?" Johnny asked
Looking over at the window she refused" No."
"Nicci are you sure?" Johnny asked sitting on the edge of the bed.
" Yes I'm sure I don't want her." Nicci said turning on her side away from Johnny drawing her knees up to her chest
"Come on Nicci, this is our daughter." Johnny said
" I don't care just go please." Nicci said raising her hand to gesture Johnny to leave with the baby
Johnny couldn't understand why she was turning her back on him more importantly their daughter. Even tho it hurt to leave, he knew it was probably for the best. With those thoughts, Johnny stood up from the bed then leaning over he gave Nicci a kiss on the shoulder." Nicci I'll leave for now and let you get some sleep. I'll be back up later okay. I love you." Johnny concluded thinking that all she needed was rest then she'd feel differantly about Abby. " I think I'm going to run over to Mrs Pattersons to pick up your stuff that she has in storage, I'll bring some clothes for you to wear home tomorrow."
"Okay thanks. Oh and Johnny, I love you too."Nicci said cutting Johnny a grin
...............The next morning..........
Walking into Nicci's room he stopped short watching her comb her wet hair from her morning shower. Seeing her over sized breasts through the thin hospital gown was taking a toll on his neglected member. Ignoring his urges he shook his head and walked up behind Nicci" Morning Half Pint, you ready to go?" Johnny asked taking her by the waist
"Yeah I think so.I just have to get dressed." Nicci said being able to feel his stiffness through his tight middle. With a slight grin she moved her ass to him. making him let out a soft moan
" Gee thanks, now what am I surpose to do? you know we can't do anything for six weeks." Johnny reminded
Turning around in his arms." Just because I can't doesn't mean you can't." She grinned leaning up giving Johnny a long pasinate kiss while her hand crawled down his chest resting on his extremely arroused crotch
"Mmmmmm. oh yessss." Johnny moaned taking his zipper down giving her full access to his rock." Oh yes feels so good." He moaned feeling her slowly shroke the lengh of his shaft
Taking his pants down to his knees she guided him down on the bed." Here lean back and let me love you." She whispered Following her orders he layed down on his back pulling her next to him.
Taking her in his arms he cupped her breast feeling the dampness of her leaking nipple." I want to taste em'." He whispered moving his hand around to untie her gown letting her swollen breasts out." Oh yes, damn." Johnny groaned seeing that they were twice the normal size. Taking the nipples between his thumb and fore finger gently squeezing allowing the milky white liquid to escape the darkened nipple "Mmmmm."
Raising up, Nicci layed Johnny back down taking his rod in her hands. Then leaning down to his middle she nibbled on the head of his gland." Oh God yes." he moaned pushing his hips up begging her to go down on him
Taking his invitation she wrapped her lips around going all the way down his shaft sending Johnny almost on the edge of climax " Shhhit." Escaped his mouth. thrusting his hips up to her rythmn Faster and faster she went down on him while cupping his throbbing balls " Ohhhhhh Shiiiiiiiiittttttt!!!!!." Johnny moaned taking him into orgasm
Licking off the last bit of cum, she looked up and winked." My my my I guess you really did need it."Nicci teased scooting her face next to his
"You know it." Johnny gasped " Half Pint I love you." He whispered kissing her on the lips tasting what was left of him.
"You want to go again?" Nicci said grinning at Johnny's surprised look
"There's nothing I want more but thanks to you I have to clean up and you have to get dressed so we can leave." Johnny said sitting up on the edge of the bed
..............
"I guess you two are ready to go." Brackett said walking up to the couple at the nurses desk
"Yep." Johnny said with a reddened face
"Well here's the discharge papers, I would have taken them to you but by the look on your face and the sounds coming from the room, it's a good thing I didn't." Brackett said with a grin folding his arms to his chest
"Hey what can I say doc, it's been so long and I still have five weeks to go." Johnny said his with a frown
"Well just because you can't the old fashioned way doesn't mean you can't use your imagination and figure out a new way.Just about anything goes, other then not being able to penatrate the virgina with youself .And because of the premature birth there was hardly any blood in fact the last I checked yesturday the bleeding was almost stopped already." Brackett said
With their eyes meeting, Johnny and Nicci took each other by the hand"Oh yeah very very interesting sounds good." Johnny said giving Nicci a crooked grin
"Well thanks Doc." Nicci said leaving the desk with Johnny at her side.
"Young people." Early concluded shaking his head at the thought
................
"Hey we should check on Abby before we leave." Johnny said walking up to the Nursery
"No that's okay, you can if you want, I'll wait for you at the elevator." Nicci refused
"Nicci why don't you want to see her, she's real pretty." Johnny questioned
" Oh Johnny, once you seen one baby you seen them all." Nicci said walking away avoiding the confrontation
For a moment Johnny stood there in a stare, he could not believe what he just heard coming out of the mouth of his child's mother.
" What was that all about?" Roy asked startling Johnny as he walked up to him
" I don't know Roy, I have no idea what made her say that." Johnny looked at Roy in confussion
" Well like I said it's going to take some time." Roy assured brushing off Nicci's words " You'll see she'll come around. All Nicci needs is the love from you then she can start to love herself. Until she learns to love herself she can't love anyone else."
.............
Looking at Nicci through side glances Johnny could sence Nicci's uneasyness. What made her say that? he wondered.Was it possible that she didn't want Abby. " Nicci." Johnny stopped
"Yeah." Nicci answered
Then thinking it best not to push her, he decided not to say anything." Oh nothing."
...........
Walking into the house still no words were said. Although Johnny needed answers, he didn't know how to get them. He didn't want to make matters worse." Nicci I can see that your tired, Why don't you go lay down and I'll fix us some lunch."
"Okay."
Walking over to the stereo, Johnny turned the music on low then headed to the kitchen to start lunch
.........
Sencing her pressence, Johnny turned around and was instantlly alarmed for the fact that she was standing in the door way shaking with tears running down her face" Hey Half Pint, are you okay? what's wrong?" he asked walking up to her taking her in his arms
"Yeah I'm okay, it's just that demons rule again." Nicci said taking a seat at the table
Joining her at the table he took her hand on his "Oh Nicci, Knuckles is dead and his goons will be locked up for a very long time, they can't hurt you anymore" He soothed
"I know, but it's just that I can still hear that gun go off, Johnny I thought I'd lost you forever." Nicci wimpered giving into tears
"Nicci I know it's hard, I still think about being chained up and being forced to watch while they beat and raped you over and over. God I felt so helpless, I wanted to help you but I couldn't. And then when I watched them stick that needle in your arm and the way you layed there not moving I thought I lost you too." Johnny concluded giving into tears of his own.
Pulling each other close they sat holding each other while their bodies trembled, together they started healing.Until the phone rang bringing them both back. " Why don't you go into the living room and I'll be in there when I'm done on the phone, Okay Half Pint." Johnny said softly wiping his watery eyes
" Hello.." Johnny spoke into the receiver."...Yeah......oh things are fine......." Johnny hesitated. " Yes........ no that's fine but let me ask her, Hold on..... Johnny said putting his hand over the receiver." Hey Nicci it's Roy he wants to know if we want to go have a couple drinks with him and the guys after their shift. maybe shoot some pool."
"I guess, that sounds like fun." Nicci said her voice trailed as she walked into the living room
"Okay Roy we'll be there, what time? Okay I'll see you then. Say Hi to the guys for us...okay..see you later....bye."
Sitting down on the couch, Nicci let out a squeal and quickly stood up " What the fuck was that?" she questioned
Hearing Nicci, Johnny rushed into the room." What's the matter you hurt." Johnny said with concern
"No I'm not hurt, I just sat on the couch and I felt something. I don't know what the hell it was." Nicci explained
"Well let me see." Johnny said checking underneath the cushions " Oh that's where it went, I was wondering what happened to it." Johnny said pulling out a battery operated muscle relaxer. " I bought this to relax my muscles especially after a hard shift." Johnny explained as he and Nicci sat down on the couch
" Here let me see that thing." Nicci said devilishly, taking it out of Johnny hand "Does it work?" she asked turning on the power. then placing it on his crotch making him become instantly hard
" You tell me." Johnny whispered pushing his enlarged cock up to the vibrator.Then taking it from Nicci, he rubbed her shoulders then moving down to her over sensitive breasts." Well what do you think?" Johnny asked. He could see by the was she squimed it was having the same effect that it had on him.
" Oh yeah it feels real good." Nicci moaned
Leaning her back, Johnny kissed her neck while moving the vibrator down her tummy resting it under her skirt.Then sliding it inside her panties he caressed her tenderness moving the vibrator up and down " It's been so long." He moaned slidding two fingers inside her dampened hole while placing the devise directly on her enlarged clit sending her straight to heaven, while freeing his eager cock from his jeans.
Sitting up, Johnny slid her panties off. Then being carefull not to enter her region, Johnny picked her up and sat her down on top of him. Placing the vibrator between them he made contact with her still throbbing clit at the same time as he made contact with his begging member.Making sure the vibrator stayed in place, he put his hands on Nicci's hips grinding her snatch up and down on the vibrator making it do both of them "Oh yessss." She moaned moving her hips to Johnny's rythmn throwing them both into climax.
Melting like butter she layed her spent body across his chest both panting with desire " I guess that's what Doc meant by using our imagination." Johnny gasped
" Yeah I guess." Nicci agreed closing her eyes " Johnny I love you." Nicci whispered pecking him on his chest
"I love you to Nicci. What do you say we move the party into the bathroom." Johnny said
.............
Allowing the hot water cascade down her back he held her close as they swayed to the music filtering through the walls from the other room. " I want you to make love to me." She whispered gently stroking is gland
"Oh Nicci there's nothing that I would want to do more, but I can't " Johnny said
"Johnny, there is more then one way to make love. Please I need you. I need to feel you inside of me." She whispered looking up into his eyes
As if reading her mind he knew what she was saying ." Oh Nicci are you sure, I don't want to hurt you." Johnny hesitated
"Johnny there's no way you can possibly hurt me." Nicci assured
......
"I'll be right back." Johnny said laying her down on the edge of the bed. Within a fraction of a second, Johnny came back into the bedroom with their new found toy. Leaning over her he cupped her full breasts gently sucking and biting each nipple tasting the warm milk as it escaped.
"Oh yesssss feels so good." She moaned running her fingers through his hair then craddleing his head while his mouth preformed its magic Satisfied that he gave them equal attention, Johnny moved south licking down her tummy while inserting a finger inside her extremely arroused hole. Seeing that there was no blood his tongue continued it's journey downward to her shaven mound. Spreading her folds apart with his fingers he took her waiting clit in his mouth." Oh oh yes......" She moaned lifting her hips up to him.
Taking the vibrator in his hand, Johnny gently Rubbed it against her clit while pushing two fingers deep inside her hole. " come on baby I want you to cum." He whispered turning the vibrator up to a higher speed "Oh yes cum......" Feeling her hole throb around his busy fingers
"Oh shitttttt...." Nicci gasped giving it to him
Seeing that she was more then ready, Johnny stood up between her legs Then squeezing a small amount of KYon his finger, he gently worked it inside her tight hole. Then squeezing a larger amount in his hand he stroked his cock making sure he coated every inch of it with the jel. Putting the head of his dick up to her ring hole, Johnny entered her with slow and gentle strokes " You okay, Does it hurt?" Johnny asked feeling her tense up her muscles
" Oh no it don't hurt." Nicci moaned pushing her ass up to him. begging him for more. Picking up on her movment, Johnny plowed all the way inside her.
Then picking up her ass up he held her in place while he thrust in and out of her." Oh shitttttt." He moaned feeling her hands on his hips meeting his every move. " Oh fuckkkkkk it. oh yesssss." Wanting them to cum together Johnny put the vibrator up to her clit while grinding three fingers inside of her snatch. Then picking up speed Johnny hammered his cock in and out of her ass. Throwing them both into a very intence orgasm "Ohhhhhhhh Shitttttttt here it is........" Johnny groaned filling her ass with him. "Man that was incredible." Johnny panted scooting up next to her.
"Yeah it sure was, man seems like we been at it for hours." Nicci said laying her head on his chest Johnny
Looked at his watch "Mmm 6:30, it seems like I had to do something, now what was it?." Johnny questioned racking his brain."
"I don't know maybe you should call Roy and ask him." Nicci teased
With out warning Johnny sat up." Oh God that's right we're surpose to meet him and the guys at Zoners Tavern, shit we're almost an hour late." Johnny said reaching for his clothes
"Oh that's okay we can be out the door in ten minutes." Nicci said as she started to get dressed
Standing in front of the mirror, Nicci brushed her hair while Johnny sat on the bed tying his shoes " Oh shit. Nicci." cursed
" What." Johnny said looking up
"Nothing I'm just leaking again, Johnny your a paramedic, Can I ask you a question? What do I have to do to stop my boobs from leaking all over."
" Well it's simple, the more they're stimulated the quicker the milk glands dry up." Johnny lied.
" Great what do I have to do go around playing with them all day." Nicci complained
"Nope I'll be happy to do that for you." Johnny offered giving her his crooked grin while walking up to her wrapping his arms around her waste
"Well how long does it take?" Nicci asked
"It all depends on how many milk glands there are the bigger the boob the more milk glands there are. It may take you a long time to fully dry up." Johnny lied.
He hated to lie but he knew if he told the truth she would never get the chance to breast feed once she came to accept Abby.
..........
Johnny and Nicci made their way past the crowded Tavern being greeted by Roy's friendly wave
"I see you guys finally made it over an hour late." Stanley said glancing at his watch
"Sorry Cap it couldn't be helped we were using our imagination." Johnny said giving Nicci his famous smile
"Nicci you remember my wife Joanne?" Roy asked
"Yes I remember, Hi." Nicci greeted exstending her hand.
"Hi, Roy told my how small Abby is and I don't know if you're interested but I brought a sack of clothes that belongs to some of Jenny's older baby dolls. They're in really good shape and I thought you can use them."
"Oh, Hey is anyone up for shooting some pool?" Nicci said avoiding Jo's words.
" Yeah I'll shoot some pool." Mike said getting up from the table ...
" Gage what was that all about?" Chet asked as soon as Nicci was out of ear shot
"I don't know Chet, She avoids Abby like the plague and all conversation that has to do with the baby. She refuses to hold her. And I really hate to say this she acts like she doesn't want her." Johnny said
"How can she not want her baby?" Stanley asked
"I don't know Cap, I wish I did. I try to get her to hold her but she pushes her away." Johnny said " She's okay as far as our relationship but as soon as I mention Abby she changes."
"She's probably real scared. She wasn't really warned of what was going to happen." Marco said
" Yeah, I know she didn't have pre natel care and she didn't know what was happening to her body because she had no one to talk to. The only thing she was able to do is read a few magazines which wasn't a whole lot of help." Johnny explained hanging his head
" Well it sounds to me that she was very lonely and very scared. And if you stop to think about it, it's kind of sad knowing that she wasn't able to enjoy her pregnancey." Roy said
"Well being a woman I can relate to how she feels. It's a special feeling when your carrying a baby and I can't even emagine not being able to enjoy those feelings. After Roy told me what happened and how she was treated I didn't know what to say. How can anyone be so uncaring?" Joanne finished looking in Nicci's direction
" I just don't know what I'm going to do when Abby comes home and I go back to work. I can't take her to the station with me"
"Johnny I'll watch her for you." Joann offered
" I don't know, Are you sure you want to? I mean with Chris and Jenny you already have your hands full and Abby will be hooked up to a monitor most of the time except for feedings and baths."
"Johnny of course I'm sure, Hopfully it wont be long before Nicci comes around. Until then I'll help you. I and Roy both will help."
"And where they can't help the rest of us can. right guys" Stanley said
" I don't know what to say guys, Thanks." Johnny said seeing his friends nod their heads in agreement
"Your're welcome." Joanne said
" Besides Johnny, I saw Abby in the nursery, she's a real sweetie and so tiny. Jenny said she looked like one of her dolls. I know she would never forgive you if you turned me down. She's very excited about this she's already made plans for their first tea party." Joann said
"Well it may take some time I don't think they make tea sets in Abby's size." Johnny chuckled " Oh one more thing Chet, if you change Abby make sure you put the diaper on the right end."
The conversation ending in laughter.
*********
After a long shift at the station, Johnny sat quietly at his table questioning Roy's prediction. From where Johnny stood he didn't see any signs of Nicci accepting Abby. For five weeks he's asked her to go to Rampart with him to see Abby and for five weeks she's turned him down. Johnny was so far in his thoughts he didn't hear Nicci when she entered the room.
" Morning Honey." Nicci said holding her chest with the look of pain.
"Morning you're up early." Johnny greeted. " You feel alright?" He asked
"Yeah I'm okay but I'm awfully sore, My boobs feels like rocks. As much as you've been messing with them, I thought I would have dried up by now." She said sinking down in a chair.
" I would have thought so too." Johnny agreed going along with his lie." I guess it's going to take more time then we both thought." Johnny said
Walking up to the counter Johnny wet a wash rag with warm tap water and picked up a jar with matching lid. Then walking back to the table and bent down infront of Nicci." It seems to help when I drain them." Johnny said leaning in to her giving her a quick kiss while opening up her robe. Putting the warm cloth up to her, Johnny gently massaged her engorged breasts. Taking each nipple with his mouth while squeezing them creating a steady flow. Seeing that his actions were paying off, he took the jar and put it up to Nicci's nipple allowing each breast to completely empty out. When Johnny was satisfied he placed the lid on the half full jar then Placing the jar in the fridge.
" Johnny why are you putting it in the fridge? I thought you just poured it down the sink." Nicci questioned
With her question, Johnny stopped dead in his tracks. Great now what Johnny, think of something quick before she finds out , he thought to himself. " Well.. well I..I.. was, then I heard from a nurse at Rampart that they buy it for research and I figure we can use the money." Johnny stuttered lieing his ass off
"Research well what do they research on it?" Nicci questioned
" I don't know really but we get five dollars with each jar so I figure what the hell." Johnny lied
"Oh I guess that makes sence." Nicci said buying into Johnny's deceit
Letting out a sigh of relief, Johnny walked to Nicci." I love you Half Pint." Johnny said hoping that it would make him feel better about lieing to her. Leaning into her he gave her a long passinate kiss.
"I love you too Johnny." She whispered back raking her hand across his arousal then pulling his zipper down.
Breaking off the kiss Johnny stood up. " Now what do you have on your mind Half Pint?" Johnny asked shifting his hips to her
" The same thing you got on your mind Johnny Gage." Nicci observed creeping her hand up and down his enlarged shaft.
Taking him in her arms she reached up and gave him a passinate kiss while reaching her hands around the inside his pants gently squeezed his ass cheeks"Mmm." He moaned
"Have a seat Johnny, I want to love you." She whispered Taking his pants and underware down to his knees Johnny sunk deep into a kitchen chair taking her with him.
" I want to love you too." He said peeling her robe off letting it hit the floor. Strattling his leg, Nicci took his mouth to hers darting her tongue inside mixing his hot sexy breath with hers. Slowly moving down she unbuttoned his shirt, kissing each new part of exposed skin then using one finger she stroked the vein of his full size cock using a feather light touch." Oh yes." He moaned feeling her start to nibble the head. Seeing his face filled with the look of desire she wrapped her lips around him taking him all the way down her throat." Oh shit......" escaped his lips thrusting his hips up to her.
" Oh you like this." She said softly picking up the pace.
" Oh yes." He groaned putting his hands on her head guiding her down faster while thrusting his rock exploding deep in her throat.
"Mmm,well I guess you liked it a lot." She teased licking the last bit of cum seeping out of his pulsating cock. Picking her up by the shoulders Johnny took her in his arms " Do you know how much I love you?" Johnny asked giving her a kiss on the forehead.
" Yeah I think I do." She teased looking down at his still throbbing member
With a smile Johnny got up from the table and walked into the bathroom to get cleaned up. Then walking back into the kitchen he walked up behind Nicci wrapping his arms around her waist." Hey Nicci, I'm going up to Rampart to drop off the jar and see Abby you want to come with?" He asked hopefull
"No that's okay, I should start the laundry." Nicci said
..............
Driving to Rampart Johnny let his silent tears escape his eyes. " Damnit God why, that's all I want to know." Johnny cursed. He wanted so much to understand, but in the end he couldn't." What could Abby have done to make her mother not love her." Johnny cried." She's just a baby for Christ sake."
................
Walking into Rampart, Johnny spotted Roy and Brice standing at the base station. " Hey guys." Johnny greeted his eyes still swollen with tears
"Hi Junior." Roy greeted. Taking a closer look Roy could tell that something was bothering his partner.Placing his hand on Johnny's arm ." Hey are you okay, would you like to talk?" Roy asked with concern
"No nothings wrong, I'm okay." Johnny lied shifting the sack to the other arm
"Are you sure?" Roy asked just as the Handy Talkie went off." 10-4 51 responding from Rampart Emergency." Roy announced in the speaker
Turning to leave the desk, Johnny was stopped by Dixie" Well it's about time you got here,Is this it?" She asked taking the paper sack from Johnny
"Yeah it is." Johnny said
"Good because your daughter's giving my nurse up there hell."
...........
Johnny made quick work of putting the scrubs on over his street clothes,As he finished, he could hear Abby crying from the other room. Boy she's really pissed. He thought with a grin as he finished dressing. Sencing eyes on him Johnny glanced up to see Roy standing in front of the window. With a smile Johnny motioned Roy to come in. Hesitately Roy entered the room." What? you know I can't be in here, Just the parents are allowed in." Roy reminded
"So, she's my daughter, if I say it's okay then it's okay, and besides the nurse is warming up the bottle, she'll probably be a few minutes." Johnny ended ." Besides don't you want to hold her after all your not just any person you delivered her."
"I know but......" Roy hesitated
"But nothing...here..." Johnny said tossing a pair of scrubs to his best friend.
"Okay I'm sold,.but if we get caught it's all your fault." Roy warned putting on the scrubs
.........
"Shhh. there there it's okay, daddy's here." Johnny soothed while gently scooping Abby in his arms.
"Looks like she knows who you are." Roy whisperd seeing she instantly calmed with Johnny's soothing words
"Of course she does, she's daddy's girl." Johnny said with pride kissing her tiny cheek " You want to hold her?"
"I thought you'd never ask." Roy said flattered to be asked
"Okay." Johnny said preparing the pass.
" Watch her head.......oh Roy watch her arm...." Johnny warned nerviously
"Junior, I've done this before remember." Roy reminded taking back by Johnny's actions
"I know I know but be carefull......oh oh.........." Johnny spit..." Here why don't you sit down." he suggested
Rolling his eyes Roy carefully sat down in the rocking chair." There is this better Nervious Nellie." Roy teased with a smile
"Yeah that's much better. Just watch her head." Johnny warned
Without warning nurse Johnson came barging in the room "Mr. Gage what is going on in here? Mr. Gage you know the rules, no ones allowed in here but parents" She announce with protest startling at both of the guilty paramedics.
" Oh well, well he is a parent." Johnny stuttered both him and Roy caught off gaurd with her outburst" He has two kids."
" Mr Gage you know that's not what I mean." Johnson declared
" Well the sign on the door says parents only, but it doesn't say he has to be her parent." Johnny said
" Don't give me that Mr. Gage, you know the sign means that only the parents of the child are allowed." Johnson protested
" Well then it should say that." Johnny concluded
Seeing Dixie walk in "Ms. McCall I don't know what to say, I left to warm up the bottle and when I came back Mr DeSoto was here." Johnson complained glaring at Johnny
" Oh that's okay truth be known if it wasn't for Mr. DeSoto she wouldn't be here. And besides I know from experience never try to reason with or argue with Gage. He's just to bull headed." Dixie said with a grin
Letting out a sigh of relief, Johnson handed the baby bottle to Johnny then quickly left the room.
Dixie then walked up looking down at the guilty." John Gage are you giving my nurse a hard time?" she asked
"Who me." Johnny said giving her a crooked grin
" Yes you." She said slapping his back just before leaving
"See I told you I shouldn't have came in here." Roy said over Abby's fussing
"Oh don't worry about it." Johnny said handing the premie bottle to Roy." Here."
Johnny watched in amazment as Abby accepted the warm milk." I tell you Roy, I'm never going to get used to how tiny she is, I mean look at her hands." Johnny said placing his finger to her palm letting her grasp it. Johnny and Roy were so mesmorized with her they didn't notice Brackett walk in
" I guess we need a new sign." Brackett said walking up to Roy and Johnny with a grin
"Oh Hey doc, sorry I didn't hear you come in ." Johnny said
"That's okay I've been in surgery all morning so I'm getting a late start on my rounds." Brackett said studying the chart hanging on the end of the bassinet
"So how is she Doc?" Johnny asked with interest.
"She's doing just fine. I see she's gain four ounces which puts her up to three pounds six ounces. By the look of things she's doing very well."
" How's Nicci?" "She's the same Doc, as you can see she's not here again. Doc I don't know what to do." Johnny said taking Abby from Roy to change her.
"Well I'm afraid all any of us can do is be patient. I know that it's hard. Maybe if Abby were home it would be easier for Nicci to accept her instead of turn her away." Brackett said dropping on a stool ." She has her six week check up Tomorrow and I can try to talk to her, I'm not a psychiatrist but maybe I can help." Brackett offered watching Johnny gently changing his daughters diaper
"Well that'll help thanks Doc. When do you think Abby will be ready to come home?" Johnny asked scooping Abby back in his arms
"Well I'd like her to weigh at least four pounds and by the way she's going it should be sometime Next week maybe." Brackett concluded "Okay well thanks doc." Johnny said
***********
Coming to a stop in the bay, Roy and Johnny climbed out of the squad and headed to the day room in hopes of finding something for lunch. To Johnny's surprise Dr. Brackett was sitting at the table talking to the Captain and the rest of the crew. " Hi Doc." Johnny greeted pouring a cup of coffee " What are you doing here?" Taking a seat at the table
" Well I came here to talk to you." Brackett said." As you know I saw Nicci for her sixth week check up"
" Doc is there something wrong with Nicci." He asked seeing the look of concern on Brackett's face
"No other then being a little under weight, Nicci's fine physically." Bracketts said in between sips of coffee " However her Mental state is what concerns me and that's the reason I need to talk to you."
Johnny sat there for a moment . He had questioned her mental state but hearing Brackett say that he was concerned added to Johnny's concern. Looking at Brackett he asked "What happened?." His words lined with worry
" Well after I examined her, we sat and talked for while about nothing really. Then when I mentioned the baby she claimed up. She didn't say another word. I told her that I understood how she was feeling and that she should see a psychiatrist to help her overcome everything that has happened.That's when she got upset and left" Brackett stopped. " I didn't mean to offend her."
" I know you didn't mean too, you were only trying to help and I thank you for that. I just wish I understood that way I can help her. Doc it tears me up to see her act this way towards Abby." Johnny said his voice full of fustration
" I know it does, It would anybody, but unfortunately there's nothing we can do. We can't force her to see someone and we can't force her to accept Abby. It's up to Nicci to do that. All any of us can do is hope. After she left I did do some reading on post partum depression and Nicci doesn't really fit that catagory. So I started reading up on some abuse cases. Now I'm not a professional when it comes to the mind. but it's to my understanding that when a person is abused they put this bubble around them. They feel safe inside that bubble and it's rare for them to let anyone in that bubble for fear they will be hurt . Now Nicci was hurt in her bubble when she gave birth and she may resent or even blame Abby for that hurt." Brackett explained
Johnny didn't want to admit it but Brackett's words were making sence. He didn't like the thought that Nicci blamed Abby for being born." And there's nothing we can do?" Johnny asked
"No I'm afraid not. just be there for her and try to understand where she's coming from." Brackett stopped taking a sip of coffee before continuing. " There's something else that needs to be addressed before Abby goes home. Now I could be way off base and I hope to God that I am, but I feel that you need to know what you may be up against. You see, I read an article in a magazine about a year ago. It was about this woman that was abused. This woman recented her child but was forced to take care of it the end result was she neglected the baby and six months later the baby was found dead from suffication. I'm not saying that Nicci will ever try to hurt Abby but we can't rule it out completely. I would suggest until you see a change in Nicci I wouldn't leave her a lone with Abby just in case." Brackett concluded.
Johnny's heart sunk to his stomach he couldn't bare the thought of Nicci trying to harm Abby. but he knew that Brackett was right that he couldn't rule that possibility out. "Okay well thanks for the time Doc and I'll let you know what happens" Johnny said
"No problem but there is something that I need to ask you, Did you tell Nicci that her breasts would dry up quicker with stimulation?"
"Yeah I did, I figure that was the only way for her to nurse. So I've been exspressing her milk then taking it to the hospital before work. I know it's not the same because of the bonding that is lacking, but at least Abby gets the nutrition.
" Don't you think you're taking advanage of Nicci not knowing the truth." Roy asked
" Yeah but you got to admit it's resouceful and besides Nicci's not leaving me much of a choice is she." Johnny said just as the Klaxons sounded
................
Pulling two hours of overtime the guys finally strolled into the day room to find B shift waiting to take over. " Gage why don't you go ahead and take off I need to speak with the rest of the guys?" Captain asked
With the look of suspision Johnny looked at his Captain. " Cap what's wrong? did I do something?" He asked
"Nothing's wrong and no you didn't do anything. I just need to talk to them." Captain said
"Well if I didn't do anything wrong then why can't I stay and listen?" Johnny asked confussed
"Because you have Nicci waiting and you're already two hours late and Roy can tell you never keep a lady waiting." Stanley said. " I'll have Roy fill you in on Monday, Now beat would ya." Captain ordered
"Well okay then, I guess I'll see you guys on Monday." Johnny said walking out of the room
"Thank God I thought he'd never leave." Chet said as him and the rest gathered around the table going over their plans for tomorrow.
.................
"Half Pint I'm home." Johnny announced walking through the door dropping his chin seeing her dressed in a black half shirt that button up the front, and a pair blue jean short shorts.
" Hi Johnny, How was your day?" Nicci wondered being able to smell the smoke in his hair as he walked up behind her.
Wrapping his arms around her Johnny leaned over kissing the back of her neck "It was okay just a couple or structure fires, nothing major." He said softly in between kisses,while moving his hands up to her breasts gently squeezing them. " Oh I've missed you Half Pint." He whispered blowing in her ear sending chills down her spine.
" I've missed you to, but your making it real hard for me to finish the dishes." Nicci said smiling up at him
" That's what I'm counting on." Johnny said grinding his enlarged gland into the cheeks of her ass, letting out a soft moan
"Oh is that right, This wouldn't have anything to do with my six week check up would it?" Nicci teased
"Maybe." He moaned sliding her thin shirt sleeve down " So beautiful." He whispered kissing the her bare shoulder. While unbuttoning the front of her shirt exsposing a black bra with red roses printed on it. "Oh very nice."
Turning in his arms she reached up giving him a peck on the cheek." I take it you like." She whispered while unbuttoning his shirt taking it down his arms."
" Oh yes I like it a lot." He said allowing her shirt to fall to the floor. while feeling her unfasten his pants " Very nice indeed." He whispered cupping her swollen breasts in his hands gently squeezing them. Then moving his hand down he undid the snap and zipper of her shorts, allowing them to fall around her ankles. Letting her hand rest on his straining stiffness she gently squeezed it " Oh yes." He moaned pushing his pants down off his hips, freeing his cock for her. "Mmm." He continued thrusting into her as she stroked his shaft
Sliding his hand inside her panties, Johnny teased her clit with his thumb "Mmm." She moaned softly feeling him glide his fingers between her folds of soft skin." Oh yes."Moaning louder feeling his finger enter her dampened hole.
" What do you say we go into the bedroom." Johnny hinted taking her by the arm and walking her into the bed room
..............
Laying her down on the bed Johnny scooted on top of her grinding his extremely hard cock into her flesh" I want you real bad." Johnny said tugging at her panties slipping them down her legs
" Ooo yes, I want you too." Nicci whispered rolling Johnny over then climbing on top of him. Slowly Nicci began her journey kissing her way down Johnny's chest " I'm so hungry for you." Nicci said sucking his nipples before heading downward. Taking him in her hand she stroked up and down while nibbling the head of his cock.
Scooting over till he reached Nicci's waiting snatch he whispered. " I want you in my mouth." While picking up one of her legs then sitting down next to his head so that she was stattling him "Yeah that's it." pulling her lips open taking her clit in his mouth while grinding two fingers inside her moistened hole.
" Oh yesss....that's it." Nicci moaned grinding her ass up to meet his fingers going in and out of her. while taking him in her mouth as she cupped his tight nut sack
"That's it suck it." Johnny moaned placing his hand on her head guiding her further down on his cock. " Sooo... Goodddd...." He moaned, swirling his tongue around her clit. Then moving his tongue up, slipping it inside her dripping hole. Feeling she was about to let loose, Johnny took his hand and sat Nicci up so that she was sitting on his face." Ohhhhhhh......Shittttttt.......here......it comes......." Nicci squealed feeling Johnny sucking hard on her pulsing clit while moving his fingers faster and deeper in and out of her.
"Ah huh ah huh.......so fucking sweet." Johnny groaned slipping his tongue in and out of her feeling her hot cum filling his mouth. " That's it." He moaned lapping up the last bit of cum seeping out of her emormously wet hole.
Climbing out of Nicci's entrapment Johnny Scooted up behind her, while pulling her up on her hands and knees " Oh yes give it to me." She moaned feeling his stiff rod enter her wettness
" What you want this?" Johnny teased pulling all the way out of her
" Johnny come on." She pleaded grinding her hips to him
" Oh well then in that case." He caved plowing his dick hard inside her making her squeal. Harder and faster Johnny pumped his meat inside her. " So fucking tight." He moaned feeling his balls shiver from her wettness
"Ohhh yessss, Fuckkk ittttt." Nicci gasped feelng Johnnys balls slap her rock hard clit with his every thrust.
" Ah huh Ohhhh.......... shittttttttt.....I'm.........." Johnny moaned filling Nicci with his hot cum. Laying his hot sweaty body next to Nicci he held her close and before long they drifted to sleep in each others arms
**********
After a long night of love making Johnny woke up later then usual still wanting more. Scooting up close to his sleeping Half Pint Johnny took his member in his hand gently rubbing his errection against her tight ring hole " Morning." Nicci greeted " I thought I took care of you last night." She grinned feeling his hardened gland throb against her bare ass
"You did but that was last night and I want you now." Johnny said taking her in his arms.
"Oh I see." Nicci said turning in his arms then spreading her legs open giving him access to her pink mound.
Getting between her legs, Johnny took her breasts in his hands pushing them together. Then moving from one nipple to the other he sucked them long and hard till they were fully erect. Satisfied with his actions Johnny moved downward to her neatly shaven mound. "Mmmmm." She moaned feeling him take her in his mouth sucking her clit while grinding two fingers in her tight hole. "Ohhh shitttt." She moaned picking her ass of the bed, feeling him slam his fingers harder and faster in and out of her.
Feeling that she was on the verge of letting loose Johnny without warning climbed on top of her plunging his man size cock deep inside her.
" Fuck me." She squealed pushing her hips up to him allowing him to go deeper. "Ah huh ah huh ah huh." Johnny moaned feeling her muscles tighten around his shaft
............MEANWHILE..........
"Maybe their still sleeping." Stanley suggested
" Yeah Nicci always sleeps in past noon." Tricks said holding Chets hand
"Maybe, but Johnny should be up, it's past noon and he's always been a early bird." Roy said knocking on the door for the third time,while shifting his package in the other hand.
"Well I don't know Roy, but we have to get the cake inside before the icing melts." Jo warned holding the cake in her hands
"Yeah we can't stand out here all day." Marco said growing impatient
"Tell me about it, man I really got to go." Chet said shifting his weight from one leg to the other
"I told you not to drink that fourth cup of coffee." Tricks said cutting him a grin watching her Chet do the pee pee dance
" Well your the one that kept me up most of the night." Chet reminded pulling her close
"You still have a key don't you Roy?" Mike asked
" Yeah I do." Roy said digging in his pocket for his keys
Turning the door knob everybody piled into the living room stopping short hearing the love making sounds coming from the other room " Well at least now we know we didn't wake them ." Chet remarked looking at Tricks with a grin
" Well what do you think we should do?" Jo asked blushing
" I don't know but it wouldn't make sence to leave and come back. They shouldn't be to long." Roy said sitting the gift on the table
" Roy's right I guess we can start decorating while you and Tricks can run out and get the ice cream ." Stanley said
"Okay we shouldn't be to long." Jo said leaving with Tricks
.........BACK IN THE BEDROOM......
OHHHHH, YESSSSSS. " Johnny said thrusting hard inside her making the head of the bed smack the wall with his every move..
" AH HUH AH HUH." Nicci squealed continously
....ONE HOUR LATER. IN THE LIVINGROOM.....
"Well I guess we have everything done, now all we have to do is wait." Roy said joining the rest of them in the living room. just as Jo and Tricks walked in with the ice cream
" Jesus Gage give it a rest would yeah?" Chet said watching the pictures on the wall shake in unison with the banging on the wall from the bed.
" Yeah nothing like feeling like you're on a boat during a wind storm." Mike said watching the nick nacks shake on the shelf
"Well you know Junior's never been one to rush through anything." Roy said grinning at his statement.
Then suddenly without warning a picture came down off the wall hitting Stanley in the head. making him jump out of his chair " Cap you okay?" Roy asked rushing over to his Captain
" Yes I'm okay you twit, except for the knot on back of my head." Stanley said rubbing his wound.
...........
"OH YESSSSS OH YESSSSSS.....I'M......" Johnny gasped empting himself inside her. Laying his spent body down next to her he leaned over giving her a quick kiss." Boy did I need that." he said laying his face down next to hers. " And I don't know about you but I could use a shower."
.......LIVING ROOM.........
"Hey I think their done it's quiet in there." Chet said
"Yeah and maybe he's just getting his second wind." Stanley said still rubbing his head
............BEDROOM......
" Hey did you hear that." Johnny asked cocking his ear to the side
" Hear what?" Nicci asked
"Oh nothing I just thought I heard my Captain."
" Johnny you're not taking your work to bed with you." Nicci teased.
" Who me never, any way what about that shower." Johnny said scooping her up letting her strattle him.
Then opening the door and walking into the hallway Johnny spotted Chet and Stanley standing in the living room." Oh shit." Johnny freaked bolting their naked bodies back into the bedroom
"Johnny what's up with you." Nicci asked surprised by his actions.
"Well you know when I thought I heard the Captains voice?" Johnny asked putting Nicci down
" Yeah." Nicci said
"Well it just so happens he's in the living room with the guys." Johnny said pulling a pair of pajama bottoms on
"Your kidding." Nicci said putting the matching pajama shirt on
" Man I wish I were." Johnny said. Then turning around Johnny poked through the doorway " Hi guys, uh we'll be a minute,we're going to take a quick shower." Johnny said
...........
With in ten minutes Johnny and Nicci were done with their shower and were fully dressed." Come on we might as well face the music." Johnny said Walking out to the living room
Johnny and Nicci stopped in their tracks taking in all the decorations " What's going on here?" He asked seeing the large assortment of presents sitting on the coffee table "This is your baby shower.and if you wasn't so busy in the bedroom you would have known it awhile ago." Chet said taking a seat on the couch
"What do you mean we wasn't doing anything." Johnny lied trying to act innocent
"Well I beg to differ, I have the goose egg to prove it." Stanley said rubbing the back of his head."
" Now that that's all cleared up lets party shall we." Jo grinned turning on the stereo.
Nicci stood there taking in her surroundings"Excuse me for a second." She said. Feeling a heavy weight on her shoulders she went to go into the kitchen being stoped by Captain Stanley reaching for her arm making her jump.
Feeling her tremble with his touch "Nicci you okay?" Stanley asked his voice filled with concern
" I'm fine don't you worry." Nicci lyeing giving Stanley a fake smile Walking into the kitchen,
Nicci stopped in front of the well decorated cake. Hanging her head and letting out a sigh she turned and walked down the basement stairs. Sitting on a milk crate she spotted the sack of doll clothes Jo and Roy gave them. Picking up a outfit she dropped her head " Oh baby I want to love you I don't know how." She whispered giving into tears
.............
"Oh no, not a camera." Johnny stated taking a bite of cake
" Yes a camera, where's Nicci I want a picture of both of you together while you open up the presents." Chet said taking a snap shot of the Marco talking to Mike
" I think I saw her go down stairs, I'll go get her." Jo said walking towards the basement door.
.............
Stopping at the bottom of the stairs Jo let out a sigh. She could her Nicci weeping. Walking up behind her "Nicci are you okay?" She asked softly
Hearing the sound of Jo's voice Nicci stood." Oh I'm fine." She lied wipping her tears away
"Nicci you are not okay, and you need to talk about it." Jo asked soothingly
"I don't want to talk, it hurts when I talk about things." She whispered dropping back down on the crate.
" Yes it will hurt, it's hurting right now, who knows talking might make the hurt a little easier. Why don't you give it a try." Jo urged
Letting out a sigh Nicci looked up at Jo. " I know what you and the guys think of me. You think I'm a monster for not wanting my baby. Jo it's not that I don't want her. cause I do."Nicci said stopped swallowing her tears. " Jo I'm scared I just think about her and I'm reminded of everything about that night. I can hear Knuckles screaming while he's punching and kicking me. and all I want to do is either get away from him or die. I tried you know, twice once with a razor and once with a bottle of pills, I even thought about taking a gun and blowing my fucking head off. The reason why I didn't was because I didn't want to hurt my baby." She cried laying her head down in her hands giving into more tears while her body shook
Moving closer Jo pulled Nicci in her arms gently stroking her back" Shhh there there. it's okay let it go." Jo soothed looking up to see Roy standing there "Jo I want to love her so much but I'm so damn scared. I don't want her to know who her mother is." Nicci cried. Then suddenly without warning Nicci picked her head up.
Looking at the blank look on Nicci's face Jo became very concerned " Nicci what is it? what's wrong?" She asked her voice filled with worry
"Oh Jo I think I'm going to be sick." Nicci said bolting to the half bathroom under the steps running into Roy in the process.
" I'll go get Johnny." Roy said with concern heading for the stairs. NO DON'T PLEASE I'M OKAY." Nicci gasped reaching for his arm to stop him. As soon as her vomiting was complete she stepped out of the bathroom starring at the floor." I'm sorry I messed up the party."
"Hey don't worry about it, Why don't you go up stairs and lay down for a while." Roy suggested gently guiding her to the stairs
Johnny watched as Nicci carried herself through the crowd and then disappeard in the bedroom, her face pale and her eyes had the look of fear. Then seeing Roy and Jo as they walked in. their faces straight and rimmed with worry." Roy is everything okay?" Johnny asked concernly
" I don't know but Nicci got sick down stairs, she threw up blood again . She's real upset right now." Roy said
With Roy's words the rest of the guys in the room hushed. They didn't know what to think but they knew that something was wrong as they to noticed Roy's and Jo's look of worry Alarmed Johnny walked up to the closed bedroom door. " Nicci are you okay." Johnny asked tapping on the door . Without an answer Johnny turned the knob and walked in " Nicci are you okay?" Johnny asked
"Yeah I'm okay I'm just tired." Nicci said laying down on the bed.
" Okay if your sure." Johnny said pulling the covers over her. " Hey Nicci if you're feeling better later we can go to the drive in or something, How does that sound?" Johnny asked. Without an answer Johnny glanced at Nicci and saw that she was already asleep. Leaning over Johnny gave her a peck on the forehead then left the room
"Is she okay Johnny?" Stanley asked "Yeah I think she's fine Jo what happened she was fine earlier."
Sinking down in a chair Jo began to tell Johnny what Nicci had told her.
........... One week later.......
Roy Watched as his partner strolled into the day room sinking tiredly in a chair. Getting a closer look Roy could see the dark circles under his eyes." Morning Junior.How is every thing ." He asked
"Oh I'm okay." Johnny said covering up a yawn
" How's Nicci? is she any closer to accepting Abby now that she's home?" Stanley asked
" No if fact if it wasn't for Jo I wouldn't be able to come to work."
" Well just give it some time, Abby's only been home a week." Marco said
"Marco, How much time? Abby's almost two months old, Nicci has yet to hold her. I know it's hard on Nicci but Abby needs her mother." Johnny said just as the klaxons sounded
.............
Parking the squad Roy and Johnny climbed out and headed to the locker room. Noticing Jo's station wagon parked in the back parking lot Roy and Johnny changed their minds and made a mad dash into the day room to find Jo holding Abby.
" Hey Jo what's up is Abby okay?" Johnny asked taking Abby from Jo's arms
"Oh she's fine she's just helping me do some shopping and we thought we would stop in and say hi to her daddy." Jo said patting Abby on the back "She's a real good baby Johnny."
"Well of course she is she's my Quarter Pint." Johnny said kissing his daughter on the head.
Then turning around Johnny spotted Nicci standing in the door way." Hi Half Pint." He said walking up to kiss her
"Hi." Nicci said looking for a way to leave and avoid the situation ." I'm sorry to bother you I just wanted to stop by on my way to Rampart for a check up." She said turning around to leave
"Nicci please don't go. I think we need to talk,Have a seat" Johnny said with a firm tone." I know why you don't accept Abby ." Johnny said with conviction
" You do?" Nicci said."
"Yeah I do, Jo told me." Johnny said
"Jo you told? I thought you were my friend." Nicci said tears welling up inside her.
"Guys come on I think we should leave." Captain Stanley said motioning his crew to leave
" No that's okay you guys don't have to leave." Johnny protested " Nicci sit down." He demanded turning his attention back to Nicci "Nicci, Jo is your friend she's worried about you, we all are." Johnny said taking a seat facing Nicci." Nicci do you remember when you were affraid of my Captain? it took you long time to see that he wasn't the man that hurt you and you learned to trust him. Nicci, Abby didn't hurt you , Knuckles did. You can't blame Abby for that." Johnny stopped looking down at his daughter. Then looking back at Nicci he continnued " Did you know that when a baby is inside it's mother it feels pain. Not only did Knuckles beat you he beat her too. and because of that she was born two months early. You both have suffered. Abby's just now getting to where she don't have to sleep with a monitor on. Nicci don't look at her and see pain, look at her and see the love that we have for each other. She was made with that love you know." Johnny ended wipping Nicci's tears away.
"Johnny I know you're right...but....." Nicci said hanging her head
"Nicci why don't you give her a chance she needs you. I'm her dad I can only do so much you are her mom.The only mom she has. What do you say, you want to hold her?" Johnny asked sitting Abby on her lap not giving Nicci a chance to refuse.
" Johnny I don't know about this she's so tiny." Nicci said stiffening up at the sound of Abby's fussing." Johnny what's wrong with her?"
"She's probably hungry, would you like to feed her?" Johnny asked
" Oh I don't know." Nicci said nervously
" Come on give it a try." Johnny urged. " It'll be okay trust me."
"Well okay where's her bottle?" Nicci asked
Reaching over, Johnny started unbuttoning Nicci's shirt. as the guys quietly left the room" Nicci she don't need a bottle you can feed her." Johnny soothed.while placing Abby up to Nicci's breast allowing her to nurse for the first time
" Johnny I don't get it." Nicci said with the look of confussion
"Nicci remember when I told you that the more I messed around with you the quicker you would dry up?" Johnny said coming clean with his lie
" Yeah I remember.you mean you lied to me?"
"Yeah I lied but it was the only way, I wanted Abby to get all the benefits from breast milk. I'm sorry " Johnny said hoping that she would understand his reasons
Looking down at Abby she took her tiny hand in hers Then with tears running down her face she looked at Johnny." I guess I should be mad at you for lying to me but I'm not. And I really don't know what to say. except thanks
With her soft spoken words Johnny leaned over giving Nicci a kiss while slidding his hand under Abby holding his family close to him " I love you Half PInt."
*********
Strolling into the day room Johnny greeted his friends"Morning."
"Good morning." Roy greeted back seeing the bounce had returned in his partners step." It looks like you're in a good mood. How's Nicci and the baby?" He asked with interest
Taking a seat at the table with his coffee Johnny looked at Roy and smiled. " Oh they're doing just fine. Nicci's taking to Abby just fine. At first Nicci was a little nervous about being alone with her. She didn't think she could take care of Abby all by herself . but I kept telling her that the mother instinct would kick in and it has." Johnny said
" Well that's good, for a while I was wondering if she would ever come around." Roy said " Anyway I want to talk to you about something. You know the old couple that live in the house next to mine?" Roy asked
"Yeah, what about them?" Johnny asked
"Well I was talking to them yesturday and it turns out they're looking for a smaller house since their kids are all grown up. I thought about you and I mentioned to them that you have a one bedroom house and that you could use a bigger house now that you're just starting your family." Roy explained " Now forgive me if I'm sticking my nose where I shouldn't but you and I both know that Abby can't sleep in your room for long."
"No Roy that's okay, Tell me what did they say?" Johnny asked
" Well they sounded very interested and it would be possible for you guys to trade even since both houses are paid for. It sounds like a real good deal. He want's to meet with you tonight and descuss the details."
"Cool, I'll pick Nicci up and we can meet with him after work."
" Great I'll give him a call." Roy said After a quick phone call Roy walked back to the table. " He said you can stop over at six oclock." He announced with a smile
...............
"Well Mr. Mathews, you have a very nice house here and it's big enough for my family but I don't think I feel right trading even, I mean I just have a one bedroom house. And this place is huge ,. three bedrooms a finished den a garage and a swimming pool."
"Oh nonsence, I and my wife want a small house that is easy to care for. We're up in our ages and we're not able to keep up a house this size. Mr. Gage you would be doing us a favor." Mr. Mathews explained watching his wife agree with a nod of her head.
" Well what do you think Nicci?" Johnny asked
"Johnny it's your decision I can live just about anywhere. But I do like it and it does make sence.Johnny our family is growing."
" Yeah I know it will eventually." Johnny said
" No Johnny our family is growing now." Nicci said with a grin
"What?"Johnny said standing there replaying the words that Nicci had said with his mouth open." Are you telling me what I think your telling me?" He asked
" Yes Johnny I'm two months along. I just found out today when I went to Rampart for a check up. I was going to tell you over a candle lit dinner but now that were faced with this I feel you needed to know to help you make your decision." Nicci said. " Are you okay with another baby?" She asked shyly
" Am I okay." Johnny said softly taking Nicci in his arms. Then leaning over giving her a long kiss not caring if Mr.and Mrs. Mathews were there or not. Breaking the kiss Johnny looked at Mr. Mathews with a proud smile "Mr.Mathews you got yourself a deal, When do you want to make it final?"He asked extending his hand
" Well the sooner the better, I'll be around your place to look around and I'll bring the deed to this place with me. I figure we can make the switch by the end of the week mabye Saturday and Sunday." Mr. Mathews concluded
...........
As promised Mr. Mathews came over to Johnny's with deed in hand and after a quick inspection the deal was complete with a simple contract.
...One week Later..........
Sitting in the porch swing holding his sleeping family. Johnny felt as though his world was finally complete. He had more then what a man could ever dream of. He knew that the love that they had would stand the test of time No one could ever distroy their love not even a person like Knuckles could
.........Two months later....
Running out of a little white church, Chet tugged onto Johnny arm. " Hey Gage you ready? your guests are waiting." He said hurrying Johnny along
" I'm coming, man you would think it was his wedding day." Johnny said with a nervous grin looking over at his best man
Taking his place in front of the church with Paster Daniels, Johnny waited for the ceremony to start. As he stood there he looked behind him seeing all his friends who had come to share with him the best day of his life. The day he had waited for what seemed to Johnny as a life time. Without warning the wedding march began to play making Johnny's blood in his veins run cold. This is it, he thought watching Roy and Joanne walk down the isle hand in hand. Followed by Chet and Tricks., Doc Brackett and Dixie. With his eyes tearing he watched as his Captain slowly walk down the isle holding onto his Bride's arm. Coming to a stop next to Johnny, Captain leaned over and gave Nicci a quick kiss then taking her hand he placed it in Johnny's " God bless you both." he whispered before letting the ceremony continnue
.....
I pronounce you man and wife you may kiss the bride." Daniels announced with a smile
Lifting up her vail, Johnny looked at his bride. " I love you Mrs. Half Pint Gage." he whispered taking her in his arms
" And I love you Mr. Johnny Gage." She whispered back Then taking each other in arms they kissed for the first time as being man and wife.
............Five months later......
Dragging his tired and over worked body out of bed Stanley carried himself to the desk and picked up the reciever and spoke "Station 51, Captain Stanley speaking.........Okay Nicci how far apart are they........Okay they're on their way......" Walking up to Roy and Johnny's bunk Captain Stanley announced." Johnny that was Nicci her contractions are five minutes apart."
With those words, Johnny bolted out of the bed and ran for the squad forgetting his turn out pants.
" Gage aren't you forgetting your..........." Chet started then seeing that his warning was to late he looked up at his Captain. " Hey Cap you think we should take his pants to him?"
" I think we better the last thing he needs is to be arrested for indecent exposure." Stanley said with a smile heading for the engine while his men followed.
.............
Entering the house they found Jo holding Abby. " Hey Jo where is she?" Johnny asked in excitement
" She's in the bedroom." Joanne answered as the engine rolled to a stop. Walking into the bedroom, Johnny spotted Nicci laying on the bed. " Hey Half Pint. how are you doing?" He asked soothingly
"I'm fine." she replied. " Oh Johnny it hurts." feeling another contraction "I know it does." He soothed
" You don't know shit. you try squeezing something the size of a water mellon out of a hole the size of a lemon." She growled " Gage the ambulance is here." Stanley said walking into the bedroom
" Good. I'll ride in the ambulance and contact Rampart." Johnny said
.......
Riding in the back of the ambulance Johnny tried to confort his wife. " Shhhhhhh it's okay breathe." he soothed as another contraction came
" Johnny it's coming." Nicci cried out in pain
Checking her out he saw that the head was crowning and that he was about to do something that not many fathers get to do and that was to deliver his son.
........
The ambulance came to a stop in back of Rampart, and as Roy swung the doors open he was greeted by the cry of a brand new baby boy. " Roy I want you to meet my son.John Roderick Gage Jr." Johnny announced with pride as tears of joy slid down his face. " Hey guys what are you doing here?" He asked seeing the rest of the guys approaching
"Oh we thought you would need these." Chet said holding up Johnny's pants
"Hey how did you get my pants." Johnny asked
"You forgot them you twit." Stanley said with a smile
.........
Nicci was soon in her room, holding onto to her sleeping Abby. As she layed there she watched Johnny with his son feeling a sudden burst of happiness and piece cause for the first time in her life she felt she had a real future one that looked bright and full of promise. A future she wouldn't have had if it not been for Johnny.
............
Looking at a photograph of his friends from station 51, Johnny let out a long and rugged sigh. Man I miss you guys, funny I thought I would be the first one to go. He thought to himself remembering all the times he got hurt on the job. Except for himself, Mike Stoker was the only one still alive. Tears fell as he thought about his best friend Roy and how he gave his life to save a child in a fire.
Johnny was lonely and needed to belong to something. He knew that his time on earth was coming to an end for his body was frail and the days were getting dark. Johnny wanted so much to tell people how he was feeling but his was no longer able since the last stroke took away his voice and left him paralized. Johnny could no longer walk and could not breathe without the help of a machine. He could no longer eat and was being fed through a stomach tube.
With tears Johnny slowly moved his eyes towards the door and saw Abby and John Jr. standing in the doorway." Hi dad, How are you feeling today?" Abby asked walking up to her dads bed. with her brother at her side Stopping short they noticed a single tear running down their fathers face. " Dad are you okay?" She asked worriedly
Johnny had no way of telling his daughter or his son how he was feeling. So turning his eyes he once again starred at the picture with more tears falling.
It was his tears that told Abby and John Jr. his time had come and that they needed to let their dad go." Dad it's okay we understand. " Abby soothed running her soft hand down her fathers cheeks wiping his tears away. " I know you want to be with your friends. It's okay Dad you go, don't worry about us dad we'll be fine." She soothed sitting next to her father on the bed
Taking a seat on the other side of his dads bed, Johnny Jr. spoke." We know that it wasn't fair for the Lord to take mom away. Please dad mom's waiting for you in heaven you go to her. " He soothed taking his father's frail hand in his." Dad the doctors don't know why your hanging on, but I do. You're hanging on because of me and Abby. Dad you don't have to worry. You raised us to be the kind of people we are today. Mom would be proud for a job well done.. Look at us dad, Abby is a nurse and I followed your footsteps by becoming a fireman/ Paramedic and working at good old station 51. We are grown up and married with familes. We love you dad but your Job on earth is done. You are very tired and it's time for you to rest."
With his words Johnny Jr and Abby rested their heads down on their father's chest feeling it struggle to rise again. In silence Johnny closed his eyes for the last time
<o<o<o<o<o<o<o
Getting up from the bed Johnny looked around the hospital room. Hey how in the heck did I do that? I haven't been able to walk in over fifteen years. He thought walking over across the room then glancing at himself in the mirror." WHAT THE HELL, I'M YOUNG." Johnny said to himself. Then floating through the door into the hall he noticed Abby and John Jr. standing there embracing each other as they wept over their loss.
Suddenly Johnny heard a voice calling out his name from a distance " Yeah, who's there?" Johnny asked the voice." Hold on I'll find you and while I'm at it I'm turning up the heat it's cold in here." He said floating down the hall, stopping quick for a gurney that was headed right for him. "LOOK OUT." Johnny screamed as the gurney passed through him." WHAT THE FUCK IS GOING ON, AND WHY AM I SO COLD?" Johnny screamed watching his suroundings be swallowed up by a misty haze.
"Carefull Junior, the Boss doesn't care for that kind of language." Roy said coming out of a mist dressed in a white gown
Looking closer at the figure in front of him Johnny's eyes grew wide. " Roy is that you?" He managed to ask
"Yes it's me and I have missed you too." Roy said
" Roy it can't be you, you're dead." Johnny said in disbelief
"Yes it's me." Roy assured floating up closer to Johnny
" No it can't be you. If it's you then why are you wearing a dress?" Johnny asked
" This is my uniform. You'll get yours too as soon as you get to Up Town."
" I don't need to wear a dress, I have my clothes." Johnny said looking down at his body and noticing for the first time he didn't have any clothes on." What the hell, I'm standing here butt ass naked." Johnny said trying to hide his parts behind a door with no luck.
"Relax Junior, it wont last. Everyone that enters Up Town arrives the way they were born. In a way you are born again. We are all made in the image of the Boss and there is no shame for the naked body." Roy said taking his confused partner in his arms " Roy what's going on are you saying I'm....I'm dead?" Johnny stuttered
" Yep,You're a dead as a door knob" Roy said " Come with me."
"Roy I'm not ready to die, and I'm not going with you. I'm not going to leave my children or my grand children. Shoot I have great grand children to look after.." Johnny protested floating away from Roy
"Junior they are not children anymore. They've grown up. You can choose to go back but if you do, you will still be dead. This world doesn't want you anymore. You have been out of your body to long that is why I am here. To take you beyond the clouds to your new home. A home not made with hands." Roy said floating up to his lost and very frightened partner
Looking at Abby and Johnny Jr. Johnny knew in his heart that Roy was right." Roy, what if I choose to go with you, then what ?" Johnny asked
"Junior I'm going to take you to a place unlike anything you have ever seen before. This place is called Up Town and in this place, no one ever dies and no one ever gets sick. People live forever without aging that is why you are young again. If you choose to come with me, you will face a light as bright as the sun, but it won't hurt to look into it, In this light you will feel pure love and salvation. Once you walk into the light you will become apart of it forever. " Roy stopped as he and his partner floated down the hall " This light Junior, has been calling you for a long time, You ignored the light you've turned your back on it because you love you family and that is why you refused the light many times. Now that Abby and John have let you go you have nothing in this world to hold you back. "
Thinking about Roy's words, Johnny realized that it was time for him to let go of his old life and enter the after life." Roy I'll go, but I'm scared." Johnny said looking back at the life he was leaving
" I know it's okay to be scared." Roy soothed while lovingly taking Johnny by the arm. Then guiding him up a long invisable flight of stairs.
Floating towards the light Johnny felt the presence of his friends all around him " Hey Roy you know, this dead stuff ain't so bad." Johnny said. Without a responce Johnny turned to see Roy had vanished. " Roy where did you go? you cant leave me alone." Johnny said
"My dear Johnny, you are not alone." A small voice eckoed from with in the light." Come on, I know you are frightened, I was to when I first moved Up Town but Mr Stanley helped me. You don't have to be afraid my Johnny, for you will never be alone." The voice soothed reaching for him
Johnny stood there as the voice ecoed with the sound of harps inside his head. Feeling a strong and over powering love, Johnny walked into the light, And like Roy said Johnny became apart of the light forever.
" Come Johnny , I've missed you. " The voice whispered from behind
Turning around, Johnny saw an Angel. She was dressed in a long white flowing gown, her long blonde hair blowing in the soft breeze. Looking closer he could see her image shimmer in the glowing sunlight. It didn't take him long to realize that it wasn't just any Angel it was Nicci hovering behind him reaching her arms out to him. " Oh Half Pint." Johnny said softly floating up to her. " I've missed you so much." He cried hugging her for the first time in over forty five years.
" Johnny come, your friends are waiting." Nicci said leading him in the rest of the way letting him take in the sights of wild flowers out lining the streets made with pure gold.
Stopping at the gates leading into the Garden of Eden, Johnny bent down to smell a bunch of flowers. Without warning he was greeted by a water bomb." What the, Oh no, don't tell me. It can't be."
" I'm afraid it is, Chet and or the Phantom." Nicci assured." I told him not to do it."
"Oh what's wrong Gage, I've been waiting to do that for twenty years." Chet said fluttering his wings from above.
" Great it wasn't enough I was stuck with you at the station now I'm stuck with you for eternity." Johnny complained
" Would you twits be quiet, Marco's practicing his harp. And Chet don't you have something to do like polish your halo?" Captain ordered floating over to his men,. then looking at the newly arrived Johnny." How are you doing so far, Gage?" He asked with a warm smile
" Pretty good but it's gonna take some time getting used to being dead and all." Johnny said watching his friends flutter above him.
" I know it will, but you are not any differant than the rest of them, It is new and there's a lot of questions that need answers, We're here to help you with the transition.. I was the first to arrive out of our group after my departure in the plane crash, Chief McConikee greeted me, I too was afraid and unsure, but he helped me understand. I greeted Nicci when she departed after suffering from cancer. She greeted Chet when he departed after the car crash. Chet greeted Marco when he departed peacfully in his sleep. Marco greeted Roy when he gave his life in the line of duty. Roy greeted you after your departure. You will greet Mike when he departs in just a few days. You see we were all greeted by those we have lost. Those people that we have loved in our former life. In Up Town we will never be apart we will remain here together forever.
Hearing his Captains soft spoken words, Johnny thought back about how he felt when his friends died and to be surrounded by them again after so many years. And being able to hold Nicci again, he realized he was in a world that knew no pain or tears. He was turely happy and blessed. " Hey Cap I got a question, when do I get my uniform?" Johnny asked
" After lunch we will take you to get it." Stanley said fluttering down the golden road.
"Hey Roy, what did the Captain mean by lunch ?" Johnny asked
" Junior we spirits have to eat too, Come on I'll show you." Roy said Entering a small stone building,
Roy ushered Johnny to the buffet. Stopping short Johnny noticed Knuckles and his goons standing behind the counter. They were dressed in black while everyone else were dressed in white." Roy what are they doing here.?" Johnny asked
" Well the Boss was going to send them Down Town but he thought it would be more punishment to have him and his friends serve lunch to you for all eternity." Roy said taking a plate from the counter
" But what if they start to run?" Johnny asked
" Oh they won't run and you should never underestimate the Boss or his power. The Boss made sure that they will remain in one place for all time." Roy said
" Hey Pretty Boy. " Knuckles said. " You were a loser alive and you are a loser when your dead you son of a bitch."
"Knuckles, if I was such a loser when I was alive then why am I on this side of the counter and you are on that side." Johnny said walking away with a grin.
...........
Taking his seat at the table with his friends he looked around " Hey I don't see Hookraider anywhere." Johnny said
" And you won't, he's Down Town." Roy said
"Down Town, You're kidding." Johnny said
"No he didn't make it Up Town. He always put his needs and wants ahead of the men under him, He put his men down and didn't learn how to love and accept them for their faults and weaknesses." Stanley said
..........
" Johnny are you done eating?" I want to show you something." Nicci said
" Yeah I'm done. I hope you plan on showing me where to go to get my uniform." Johnny said
" Oh Johnny, what I have to show you, your uniform will get in the way." Nicci said smiling
" You don't mean....we can't do that here." Johnny protested in a whisper
"Johnny sure we can." Nicci assured
" We can't have sex here. Not in Up Town." Johnny whispered
" Johnny I don't plan on having sex with you. I plan to make love with my husband. We are still married in the eyes of the Boss and he put us together forever. Do you understand?" Nicci said taking her husband in her arms
" Yes I understand." Johnny whispered ..... After making love, Johnny drifted off to sleep on a cloud holding onto his wife.
The End