The Fire
Talks
Chapter Thirty One
by GCS and Hotshow
Johnny awoke to a loud noise. Worried that something might be wrong he climbed from the bed, rubbed the sleep from his eyes and stumbled to the door to his room. He smiled to himself. It was his room. Roy, Joanne and the kids were his family and here he felt at home as much as he did at his own place. It had been a long time since Johnny had felt a part of a family. It felt good.
He slipped into the hallway taking it slow hoping he wouldn't get dizzy again. He padded down the hall into the living room looking up only when he heard giggles coming from the stairs.
"Ssssh Roy, you're going to wake Johnny." Joanne giggled again. "Stop that!"
Roy made a growling noise against her neck. Then he stood up pulling her with him. "Come on Mrs. Desoto…the kitchen can wait!" He pulled her into his arms; lifting her with ease and taking the steps two at a time carried her.
Johnny stepped back against the wall in the hall smiling. 'I guess being married does have its advantages.'
Wanting to do something nice for his friends he quietly entered the kitchen, squirted some detergent into the sink and started the hot water. 'I hope they're too busy to hear this.' He heard more giggles. 'Definitely too busy.' He laughed.
Moving about the kitchen carefully taking dishes to the sink, Johnny felt pretty good. Once the sink was full of suds and hot water, he shut off the tap and turned to go into the living room to get the rest of the coffee cups he'd seen on the coffee table. As soon as he turned he knew he was in trouble. The room continued spinning when he stopped. He grabbed for the nearest chair, but misjudged the distance and knocked it over instead. 'Oh man, I know they had to have heard that.' Knowing he needed to sit down before he fell down he slid to the floor, pulled his knees in close and rested his head on them. 'How can I get through tomorrow if I can't even wash the dishes?' He sighed.
"Roy?" Joanne heard the noise down stairs.
"I know. I'll check on him." Roy stood up and pulled his jeans up. "Don't move." He smiled and winked. "I'll be right back." He pulled his t-shirt over his head as he crossed the room.
When he got downstairs, Roy could see the overturned chair in the kitchen. "Johnny, you okay?"
Johnny groaned. "Yeah, I'm sorry Roy; I was just trying to help."
Roy came up beside his friend and squatted next to him. "Come on." He slipped his arm around Johnny's shoulders. "I think you've had enough excitement for one day." He lifted Johnny from the floor and helped him down the hall.
"I'm so tired of this." Johnny almost whined.
"I know." Roy lowered him to sit on the side of the bed. "How's your head?"
"Still spinning…hurts." Johnny whispered as he lay back against the pillows.
"Okay, I'll be right back. Don't move." Roy disappeared down the hall.
"I'm not goin' anywhere." Johnny sighed. He squeezed his eyes shut and pinched the bridge of his nose.
Roy was back with a glass of water and some Tylenol. "Here…take this and try to get some sleep."
"Okay." Johnny didn't put up any fuss which let Roy know just how bad he really felt. He handed the glass back to Roy and threw his arm across his eyes. Roy pulled the shade down on the window and made sure the curtain was closed to block out the light. Then he took one last look noting that Johnny's breathing had evened out. He was asleep. Roy smiled and pulled the door closed as he hurried back to his wife.
Johnny slept for most of the afternoon, only waking when he heard Chris and Jenny coming in the house. When he got up from the bed, he noticed that he felt a lot better. He didn't have a headache and surprisingly, he wasn't the least bit dizzy. He smiled to himself. 'Maybe I'm finally getting better.'
"Now I want you both to be very quiet until Uncle Johnny wakes up. He's still not feeling very well." Joanne told the kids as she poured two glasses of milk to go with the cookies she was letting them have as an afternoon snack.
"Where's mine?" Johnny teased from the doorway.
"Oh Johnny…you're up." She smiled. "Feeling better?"
"Lots." He grinned. "So…any more cookies?" He sat down next to Jenny.
"You can have some of mine?" She pushed her plate over toward Johnny.
"That's okay sweetheart. I have plenty of cookies for Uncle Johnny to have some too." Joanne sat another plate on the table. Then she got another glass and filled it with milk. She turned to put the milk back in the refrigerator when she heard the tell tale slurping sound from an empty glass. She turned back to the group at the table to see who needed a refill. There at the table sat three "children" holding up empty glasses complete with milk mustaches. "Looks like we need to make a trip to the store," she laughed.
"Another trip to the store?" Roy said as he came in from the back yard.
"For milk." Joanne explained as she pointed to the three at the table.
"Where's my cookies." Roy teased. Joanne rolled her eyes and reached in the drain tray for another plate and glass.
The Desoto family had a good time eating cookies and drinking milk. Roy and Joanne both noticed that Johnny seemed to be doing much better than he had the last several days. They both hoped it lasted. Tomorrow would be hard enough for him.
That night after the kids were tucked into bed Roy and Johnny sat in the living room watching the ten o'clock news. Joanne had gone up to read before bed.
"So Junior are you ready for tomorrow?" Roy watched Johnny to see his reaction as well as hear it.
Johnny looked down at his hands. He pulled at a callous on his finger. He sighed deeply, "I guess. I don't know Roy…I never really thought about what I would do if anyone ever found out that I was Chris J. Bean. I didn't think anyone ever would…ya know?"
"Well I guess I can understand that Johnny, but now that they have what do you plan to do?"
"Huh?" Johnny didn't understand why Roy was asking since most everyone they knew had made big plans for tomorrow. "I…what do you mean…plan to do?"
Roy chose his words carefully so as not to start Johnny on one of his tirades. "Do you plan to stay on with the department as a paramedic? Do you plan on becoming a full time author? Do you plan to retire and move into the mountains and become a hermit?" He smiled.
"I plan on doing what I've always done." Johnny sounded aggravated.
"What about another book?" Roy actually hoped Johnny would write another novel. "The Fire Talks" had been one of the best novels he had read in a very long time.
"Actually, I've been thinking about that. I'm not sure how it will end up, but I have a few ideas." Johnny smiled. "I…I think you'll like them."
Roy dropped the foot rest on his recliner and leaned forward with excitement in his eyes. "So tell me about them."
Johnny's mouth spread into a lopsided grin. "Not yet, Pally, I'm not ready to share yet."
Roy sat back dejected, "Humph."
Johnny laughed loudly. "I'm sorry Roy, but I will promise you this…you will be the first to know this time."
Roy smiled at his best friend. "No more secrets."
"No more secrets." Johnny agreed. He moved to stand and felt a small wave of dizziness. He raised his hand to the side of his head and closed his eyes.
"You okay?" Roy asked.
"Yeah… He stood slowly. "Yeah, it wasn't that bad. I think it's time for me to go to bed though. Tomorrow's a big day."
The morning of the "Big Day" came all too quickly for Johnny. He lay in the bed dreading what was to come. He knew everyone else was up. He could hear them in the kitchen. Knowing that he had to get a shower and get ready, he got up and padded across the room. When he reached the door he suddenly stopped and looked around.
He turned around and looked back at the bed the around again to face the door. He ran his hand through his hair and grinned.
He wasn't dizzy!
Oh he knew it might not last, but for the first time in what seemed like forever he had just gotten out of bed and walked across the room without the least little bit of dizziness. He grabbed the door knob and pulled the door open quickly. "Hey Roy!"
Not knowing what was wrong with Johnny, Roy hurried into the hallway to find his friend standing there grinning from ear to ear. "What is it Johnny? Are you all right?"
"Am I all right? Yes! I'm fantastic!" Johnny walked over to his friend and threw his arm over his shoulder. "I'm fabulous!"
Roy looked at Johnny like he had lost his mind.
Johnny stepped back and spread his arms wide. "Notice anything?"
Roy looked him up and down. Johnny stood tall, shoulders back, arms spread wide and smiling. "Um…"
Before Roy could formulate a sentence Johnny was telling him. "I'm not dizzy. Not at all. None!" He spun around in a circle and stopped…swaying just a tad. "Well I wasn't." He giggled.
"Just slow down a little there Junior, Doc Early said it would get better over time, and I hope you are better, but let's not overdo it…okay."
Johnny couldn't help the grin he had, "Okay, Pally. Okay." He wrapped his arm back around Roy's shoulder. "How about some breakfast?" He tripped slightly on the carpet. Roy shot him a worried glance. Johnny shrugged it off.
This day had started out perfectly and Johnny would let nothing change that. He felt too good.
He slipped into the hallway taking it slow hoping he wouldn't get dizzy again. He padded down the hall into the living room looking up only when he heard giggles coming from the stairs.
"Ssssh Roy, you're going to wake Johnny." Joanne giggled again. "Stop that!"
Roy made a growling noise against her neck. Then he stood up pulling her with him. "Come on Mrs. Desoto…the kitchen can wait!" He pulled her into his arms; lifting her with ease and taking the steps two at a time carried her.
Johnny stepped back against the wall in the hall smiling. 'I guess being married does have its advantages.'
Wanting to do something nice for his friends he quietly entered the kitchen, squirted some detergent into the sink and started the hot water. 'I hope they're too busy to hear this.' He heard more giggles. 'Definitely too busy.' He laughed.
Moving about the kitchen carefully taking dishes to the sink, Johnny felt pretty good. Once the sink was full of suds and hot water, he shut off the tap and turned to go into the living room to get the rest of the coffee cups he'd seen on the coffee table. As soon as he turned he knew he was in trouble. The room continued spinning when he stopped. He grabbed for the nearest chair, but misjudged the distance and knocked it over instead. 'Oh man, I know they had to have heard that.' Knowing he needed to sit down before he fell down he slid to the floor, pulled his knees in close and rested his head on them. 'How can I get through tomorrow if I can't even wash the dishes?' He sighed.
"Roy?" Joanne heard the noise down stairs.
"I know. I'll check on him." Roy stood up and pulled his jeans up. "Don't move." He smiled and winked. "I'll be right back." He pulled his t-shirt over his head as he crossed the room.
When he got downstairs, Roy could see the overturned chair in the kitchen. "Johnny, you okay?"
Johnny groaned. "Yeah, I'm sorry Roy; I was just trying to help."
Roy came up beside his friend and squatted next to him. "Come on." He slipped his arm around Johnny's shoulders. "I think you've had enough excitement for one day." He lifted Johnny from the floor and helped him down the hall.
"I'm so tired of this." Johnny almost whined.
"I know." Roy lowered him to sit on the side of the bed. "How's your head?"
"Still spinning…hurts." Johnny whispered as he lay back against the pillows.
"Okay, I'll be right back. Don't move." Roy disappeared down the hall.
"I'm not goin' anywhere." Johnny sighed. He squeezed his eyes shut and pinched the bridge of his nose.
Roy was back with a glass of water and some Tylenol. "Here…take this and try to get some sleep."
"Okay." Johnny didn't put up any fuss which let Roy know just how bad he really felt. He handed the glass back to Roy and threw his arm across his eyes. Roy pulled the shade down on the window and made sure the curtain was closed to block out the light. Then he took one last look noting that Johnny's breathing had evened out. He was asleep. Roy smiled and pulled the door closed as he hurried back to his wife.
Johnny slept for most of the afternoon, only waking when he heard Chris and Jenny coming in the house. When he got up from the bed, he noticed that he felt a lot better. He didn't have a headache and surprisingly, he wasn't the least bit dizzy. He smiled to himself. 'Maybe I'm finally getting better.'
"Now I want you both to be very quiet until Uncle Johnny wakes up. He's still not feeling very well." Joanne told the kids as she poured two glasses of milk to go with the cookies she was letting them have as an afternoon snack.
"Where's mine?" Johnny teased from the doorway.
"Oh Johnny…you're up." She smiled. "Feeling better?"
"Lots." He grinned. "So…any more cookies?" He sat down next to Jenny.
"You can have some of mine?" She pushed her plate over toward Johnny.
"That's okay sweetheart. I have plenty of cookies for Uncle Johnny to have some too." Joanne sat another plate on the table. Then she got another glass and filled it with milk. She turned to put the milk back in the refrigerator when she heard the tell tale slurping sound from an empty glass. She turned back to the group at the table to see who needed a refill. There at the table sat three "children" holding up empty glasses complete with milk mustaches. "Looks like we need to make a trip to the store," she laughed.
"Another trip to the store?" Roy said as he came in from the back yard.
"For milk." Joanne explained as she pointed to the three at the table.
"Where's my cookies." Roy teased. Joanne rolled her eyes and reached in the drain tray for another plate and glass.
The Desoto family had a good time eating cookies and drinking milk. Roy and Joanne both noticed that Johnny seemed to be doing much better than he had the last several days. They both hoped it lasted. Tomorrow would be hard enough for him.
That night after the kids were tucked into bed Roy and Johnny sat in the living room watching the ten o'clock news. Joanne had gone up to read before bed.
"So Junior are you ready for tomorrow?" Roy watched Johnny to see his reaction as well as hear it.
Johnny looked down at his hands. He pulled at a callous on his finger. He sighed deeply, "I guess. I don't know Roy…I never really thought about what I would do if anyone ever found out that I was Chris J. Bean. I didn't think anyone ever would…ya know?"
"Well I guess I can understand that Johnny, but now that they have what do you plan to do?"
"Huh?" Johnny didn't understand why Roy was asking since most everyone they knew had made big plans for tomorrow. "I…what do you mean…plan to do?"
Roy chose his words carefully so as not to start Johnny on one of his tirades. "Do you plan to stay on with the department as a paramedic? Do you plan on becoming a full time author? Do you plan to retire and move into the mountains and become a hermit?" He smiled.
"I plan on doing what I've always done." Johnny sounded aggravated.
"What about another book?" Roy actually hoped Johnny would write another novel. "The Fire Talks" had been one of the best novels he had read in a very long time.
"Actually, I've been thinking about that. I'm not sure how it will end up, but I have a few ideas." Johnny smiled. "I…I think you'll like them."
Roy dropped the foot rest on his recliner and leaned forward with excitement in his eyes. "So tell me about them."
Johnny's mouth spread into a lopsided grin. "Not yet, Pally, I'm not ready to share yet."
Roy sat back dejected, "Humph."
Johnny laughed loudly. "I'm sorry Roy, but I will promise you this…you will be the first to know this time."
Roy smiled at his best friend. "No more secrets."
"No more secrets." Johnny agreed. He moved to stand and felt a small wave of dizziness. He raised his hand to the side of his head and closed his eyes.
"You okay?" Roy asked.
"Yeah… He stood slowly. "Yeah, it wasn't that bad. I think it's time for me to go to bed though. Tomorrow's a big day."
The morning of the "Big Day" came all too quickly for Johnny. He lay in the bed dreading what was to come. He knew everyone else was up. He could hear them in the kitchen. Knowing that he had to get a shower and get ready, he got up and padded across the room. When he reached the door he suddenly stopped and looked around.
He turned around and looked back at the bed the around again to face the door. He ran his hand through his hair and grinned.
He wasn't dizzy!
Oh he knew it might not last, but for the first time in what seemed like forever he had just gotten out of bed and walked across the room without the least little bit of dizziness. He grabbed the door knob and pulled the door open quickly. "Hey Roy!"
Not knowing what was wrong with Johnny, Roy hurried into the hallway to find his friend standing there grinning from ear to ear. "What is it Johnny? Are you all right?"
"Am I all right? Yes! I'm fantastic!" Johnny walked over to his friend and threw his arm over his shoulder. "I'm fabulous!"
Roy looked at Johnny like he had lost his mind.
Johnny stepped back and spread his arms wide. "Notice anything?"
Roy looked him up and down. Johnny stood tall, shoulders back, arms spread wide and smiling. "Um…"
Before Roy could formulate a sentence Johnny was telling him. "I'm not dizzy. Not at all. None!" He spun around in a circle and stopped…swaying just a tad. "Well I wasn't." He giggled.
"Just slow down a little there Junior, Doc Early said it would get better over time, and I hope you are better, but let's not overdo it…okay."
Johnny couldn't help the grin he had, "Okay, Pally. Okay." He wrapped his arm back around Roy's shoulder. "How about some breakfast?" He tripped slightly on the carpet. Roy shot him a worried glance. Johnny shrugged it off.
This day had started out perfectly and Johnny would let nothing change that. He felt too good.
Chapter Thirty Two
After a hearty breakfast and lighthearted teasing while everyone put on their Sunday best the Desoto family plus one piled into the family wagon. Roy drove while Joanne rode shotgun. Johnny relented to the two begging children that had stolen his heart years ago, and rode in the middle of the back seat sandwiched between the two extremely excited and constantly wiggling kids. It was not a long drive to the station; everyone was smiling and chatting happily.
Suddenly Chris grew very quiet, and leaned against the window, pressing the side of his face against the cool glass trying to see in the sky above. "Dad!" He said excitedly. "Look at that!"
Roy sighed. He'd already seen it. In the sky above what he guessed was Station 51, because he couldn't see it yet, circling like vultures he could see several news helicopters. "I see it son. Now you need to sit back in your seat." 'Maybe if I can get Chris to calm down Johnny won't see them.' He glanced in the rear view mirror at his partner. 'Too late for that.' He could see the already pale features of his best friend turning ghostly white. He glanced over at his wife and nodded. She leaned forward, opened the glove compartment and pulled out the small brown paper sack that Roy had stowed there in case they needed it.
For such a talented paramedic who could keep his calm in any emergency situation, think quickly on his feet, and face many things that the normal individual wouldn't dream of, Johnny would completely fall apart when it came to attention directed at him. He couldn't string three words together without stuttering. He couldn't keep the blush down that would always creep up his slender neck and completely cover his normally tan features. And the thing that always had Roy the most concerned: Johnny had the tendency to hyperventilate.
As they approached the Station Chris shot up in his seat again. "Dad look at all those people, and the TV cameras, and look how the street is lined with cars. I've never seen so many cars like that."
Roy cringed at his son's pointing out the obvious and glanced into the mirror at his friend once again. "Sit back son." Johnny looked like a deer in the headlights. His mouth hung open and his eyes looked glazed. For a second Roy thought he'd stopped breathing all together. Never mind the rushed rapid breaths he usually took when nervous and upset. This could be bad…very bad. Before he had time to react a flashing light began flickering in the side window next to Jenny.
"Look daddy, they're taking our picture!" She squealed and began posing for the camera.
Johnny moaned softly.
"Sit back honey." Joanne instructed the small girl.
As quickly as the flashing started it stopped again when an officer pulled the camera man away from the car; Johnny had started the tell tale signs of hyperventilation, his breaths now coming in gasping pants.
Roy deftly maneuvered the station wagon into the long drive that rounded the station. Much to his chagrin he had to slow down enough to allow Officer Vince Howard to move the barricade that blocked the drive giving the crowd of spectators, which appeared to be wall to wall across the front of the station, to spot the object of the event. They all moved toward the car in a sea of excited faces. If it was possible for a person to lose all color then Johnny just did. He slid down in the seat and leaned forward with his head between his knees.
"Mommy! Uncle Johnny's gonna be sick!" Jenny squealed as she moved closer to her door.
Roy exhaled blowing air between his teeth as he passed the side of the building and watched Vince replace the barricade just in time to prevent the onlookers from following them down the alley. He pulled around the back of the station hoping that someone had the wherewithal to close the back bay doors to give him a chance to try to calm his friend. A brief smile crossed his face as he saw Mike Stoker wave from the bay as the door started its slow movement down the tracks. Roy stopped the car in the middle of the lot. He didn't have much choice. Big Red was parked blocking his usual spot, and the Squad was backed into the spot where Johnny normally parked his beloved Rover.
"Joanne, take the kids inside." He reached down and picked up the bag she had placed on the seat between them. Joanne hustled the kids from the car and into the Station. Roy slid in the back seat beside Johnny and rolled the top of the bag down preparing to put it over Johnny's mouth. "Here Junior." Roy helped Johnny lean back and place the bag over his slightly blue lips. Johnny's shaking hands lifted to hold the bag in place and his grateful eyes locked with Roy's.
The passenger side door opened and Dr. Joe Early slid in beside Johnny. All of his friends knew his tendency to freak out when attention was directed at him, and his physician friends knew too well that their expertise might be needed in this particular instance. Johnny looked over at Joe. "Hey Johnny…how are you holding up?" The kindly doctor placed a calming hand on Johnny's shoulder. "I'm going to give you a little something to help calm your nerves."
Johnny looked at Roy with alarm in his eyes. Roy nodded to him that he understood his concern. "Um Doc, you know that stuff usually knocks him for a loop. I mean his tolerance level for sedatives is almost none."
"This isn't a sedative. It's just going to take the edge off." Joe helped Johnny shift enough for the needle to hit its mark. "Okay, now just give it a few minutes and when your breathing returns to normal we can all go inside. There are a lot of people inside waiting to see the famous John Gage."
Johnny rolled his eyes at Dr. Early's reference to their conversation yesterday at Roy's house and slumped back in the seat still breathing into the brown bag; slowly feeling a little more relaxed.
Suddenly Chris grew very quiet, and leaned against the window, pressing the side of his face against the cool glass trying to see in the sky above. "Dad!" He said excitedly. "Look at that!"
Roy sighed. He'd already seen it. In the sky above what he guessed was Station 51, because he couldn't see it yet, circling like vultures he could see several news helicopters. "I see it son. Now you need to sit back in your seat." 'Maybe if I can get Chris to calm down Johnny won't see them.' He glanced in the rear view mirror at his partner. 'Too late for that.' He could see the already pale features of his best friend turning ghostly white. He glanced over at his wife and nodded. She leaned forward, opened the glove compartment and pulled out the small brown paper sack that Roy had stowed there in case they needed it.
For such a talented paramedic who could keep his calm in any emergency situation, think quickly on his feet, and face many things that the normal individual wouldn't dream of, Johnny would completely fall apart when it came to attention directed at him. He couldn't string three words together without stuttering. He couldn't keep the blush down that would always creep up his slender neck and completely cover his normally tan features. And the thing that always had Roy the most concerned: Johnny had the tendency to hyperventilate.
As they approached the Station Chris shot up in his seat again. "Dad look at all those people, and the TV cameras, and look how the street is lined with cars. I've never seen so many cars like that."
Roy cringed at his son's pointing out the obvious and glanced into the mirror at his friend once again. "Sit back son." Johnny looked like a deer in the headlights. His mouth hung open and his eyes looked glazed. For a second Roy thought he'd stopped breathing all together. Never mind the rushed rapid breaths he usually took when nervous and upset. This could be bad…very bad. Before he had time to react a flashing light began flickering in the side window next to Jenny.
"Look daddy, they're taking our picture!" She squealed and began posing for the camera.
Johnny moaned softly.
"Sit back honey." Joanne instructed the small girl.
As quickly as the flashing started it stopped again when an officer pulled the camera man away from the car; Johnny had started the tell tale signs of hyperventilation, his breaths now coming in gasping pants.
Roy deftly maneuvered the station wagon into the long drive that rounded the station. Much to his chagrin he had to slow down enough to allow Officer Vince Howard to move the barricade that blocked the drive giving the crowd of spectators, which appeared to be wall to wall across the front of the station, to spot the object of the event. They all moved toward the car in a sea of excited faces. If it was possible for a person to lose all color then Johnny just did. He slid down in the seat and leaned forward with his head between his knees.
"Mommy! Uncle Johnny's gonna be sick!" Jenny squealed as she moved closer to her door.
Roy exhaled blowing air between his teeth as he passed the side of the building and watched Vince replace the barricade just in time to prevent the onlookers from following them down the alley. He pulled around the back of the station hoping that someone had the wherewithal to close the back bay doors to give him a chance to try to calm his friend. A brief smile crossed his face as he saw Mike Stoker wave from the bay as the door started its slow movement down the tracks. Roy stopped the car in the middle of the lot. He didn't have much choice. Big Red was parked blocking his usual spot, and the Squad was backed into the spot where Johnny normally parked his beloved Rover.
"Joanne, take the kids inside." He reached down and picked up the bag she had placed on the seat between them. Joanne hustled the kids from the car and into the Station. Roy slid in the back seat beside Johnny and rolled the top of the bag down preparing to put it over Johnny's mouth. "Here Junior." Roy helped Johnny lean back and place the bag over his slightly blue lips. Johnny's shaking hands lifted to hold the bag in place and his grateful eyes locked with Roy's.
The passenger side door opened and Dr. Joe Early slid in beside Johnny. All of his friends knew his tendency to freak out when attention was directed at him, and his physician friends knew too well that their expertise might be needed in this particular instance. Johnny looked over at Joe. "Hey Johnny…how are you holding up?" The kindly doctor placed a calming hand on Johnny's shoulder. "I'm going to give you a little something to help calm your nerves."
Johnny looked at Roy with alarm in his eyes. Roy nodded to him that he understood his concern. "Um Doc, you know that stuff usually knocks him for a loop. I mean his tolerance level for sedatives is almost none."
"This isn't a sedative. It's just going to take the edge off." Joe helped Johnny shift enough for the needle to hit its mark. "Okay, now just give it a few minutes and when your breathing returns to normal we can all go inside. There are a lot of people inside waiting to see the famous John Gage."
Johnny rolled his eyes at Dr. Early's reference to their conversation yesterday at Roy's house and slumped back in the seat still breathing into the brown bag; slowly feeling a little more relaxed.
Chapter Thirty Three
They say you can never go home.
But when Johnny did finally feel calm enough to get out of Roy's station wagon and across the back lot at Station 51 that's where he knew he was. Home.
Although he had written a successful novel that apparently if the news media flying overhead was any indication had stirred up a lot of attention. He smiled up at the circling whirly birds knowing that this is exactly what the fire department public relations department had hoped for.
He felt Roy's hand cross his back and lightly grip his shoulder. "You ready for this?"
Johnny looked at his best friend and smiled. "No, but do I have a choice?"
"Nope." The two friends chuckled.
"That's what I thought."
Dr. Early had gone back inside earlier leaving Johnny in Roy's capable hands which left the two friends a few minutes alone.
"Johnny, no matter what happens in there. You will always be my partner, even when we both move up to Captain or retire from this madness. You and I, we will still be best friends." Roy wanted to make sure Johnny knew how much he cared about him, before the frenzy took over his life.
Johnny stopped just before opening the kitchen door. Flash bulbs flickered from down the side drive where Vince still maintained a safe perimeter. Johnny smiled at his friend. "Roy, I'm not going anywhere. This..." He waved at the door. "...is where I belong. This is home to me. It's all I've ever wanted to do and as for the writing..." He paused trying to get the words together to express what he was trying to say. Even though he could write an exciting, drama filled, adventurous novel, when things became very important, he couldn't seem to string two words together and make sense. "...well it's just...you know...a way to...um..." He looked at Roy expectantly.
"A way to share that love for what we do with people who might not know about it otherwise," Roy helped him. "A way to help them understand the dangers we face, the terrible fact that crazy people often start fires that effect innocent victims, and how much being able to save someone's home, their business and most importantly their family means to a fire fighter."
"Yeah...yeah that's right partner." Johnny beamed with pride. "And to take the proceeds and give something back to the department...and Rampart since home is where the heart is." His hand splayed across his chest. "My heart is full because of this...because of friends like you."
Roy cupped Johnny's neck and pulled him into a quick embrace that thanks to telephoto lenses would be shared by many in the weeks to come. Newspapers, fans, television news programs and many friends would smile at that image for a long time to come.
Realizing that they were drawing a lot of attention the two men separated quickly and grabbed for the door knob at the same time. Neither one liked to be the center of attention. They hurried into the kitchen and slammed the door. Seeing the small group around the kitchen/dayroom area looking over at them with wide eyes, they broke out into laughter and moved further into the room. Out of habit they both grabbed a coffee cup from the drain tray and poured themselves some. Both turned around and leaned against the counter and raised their cups in tandem.
Looking around the room, Johnny saw many of his closest friends: Dr. Brackett, Dr. Early, Dixie, and Dr. Morton from Rampart. They were all wearing nice clothes. He couldn't help but smile at how nice they looked in suits and a dress. Next he noticed Captain Stanley, Chet, Marco and Mike all in their dress uniforms. Across the room playing with Henry he saw Chris and Jennifer with Joanne all dressed in their Sunday best. He glanced at Roy and smiled. They were also dressed in what Johnny called his Sunday best, which actually was his dress uniform. Basically he had a few ties and sport coats, but he didn't really wear suits. It seemed strange for them all to be dressed so nicely when there wasn't a funeral or wedding today.
"Well John, I think we have a presentation to attend to in the bay." Captain Stanley as usual took charge of the situation.
Johnny and Roy both took one final sip of coffee just like they would if the tones had called them to the Squad. They placed the cups in the sink.
"We'll all go out first, and then you can follow. Okay everyone let's go." Captain Stanley waited by the door for Joanne and the kids. He ushered everyone through and then hesitated for a second when the only ones left in the room were he, Roy and Johnny. He turned to Johnny, "I don't think I can quite explain how proud I am of you right now." He gripped Johnny's shoulder and then turned and opened the door for the three of them.
As soon as they entered the bay applause erupted.
Johnny blushed and stopped in his tracks, his eyes grew wide, his mouth opened and then closed, but thanks to Dr. Early he didn't panic. He regained his composure and walked over to the Chief and extended his hand.
After shaking hands with all of the dignitaries Johnny made his way around to a few of the other guests. He smiled as he walked up to some of his original crew from Station 10.
"Hey Boot!" The former Engineer from when he first graduated from the academy, Dale Scott, called to him as he walked up.
"Scotty are you ever going to stop calling me that?" He looked down at his feet before raising his eyes to meet those of his long time friend.
"Nope." Scotty laughed loudly and slapped Johnny on the back.
"Wow Gage, you still know how to stir things up don't cha?" Lineman Jim Graves shook hands with him next.
Then Johnny bent down to shake hands with Jim's brother Cody who was in a wheel chair. "What happened to you?"
"Oh you know how it is." Cody shrugged. "Ceiling decides at the last minute, just before you can get out of the way to land on your head; then the beam that was holding it decides to land on your leg." He smiled.
Johnny smiled too. "Yeah, I think I can relate to that. Man, it sure is good to see you guys." Just before he moved to the next group of friends from the B-Shift of Station 51 another long time friend from Station 10 came over. "Jeff!"
"Hey Johnny, congratulations on the book," Jeff extended his hand; Johnny took it. "It's good to see you up. We heard you were injured…again." He smiled.
"You heard right. He's still on the injured list." Roy said as he walked up beside Johnny. "Hey Junior, I think they're ready for you."
"JUNIOR!" Cody and Jim said at the same time, and burst into laughter.
Johnny turned three shades of red and quickly made his escape. "See you guys."
He moved back toward the podium stopping along the way to shake hands with his old high school buddy turned Paramedic Gil Robinson and his former Rescue Squad partner Tony Freeman.
At the podium the Chief walked up to the mike and everyone gathered closer. Cameras flashed. TV and radio announcers could be heard greeting their imaginary audiences. Johnny's once red face had now paled. Roy hovered at his elbow in case Johnny wavered. "Ladies and gentlemen, distinguished guests it is my great pleasure to welcome you to Los Angeles County Fire Station 51, home of LA's newest fireman turned novelist, Chris J. Bean, otherwise known as John Roderick Gage." Applause echoed through the bay. Johnny's already pale complexion turned white.
Roy whispered in his ear. "You okay?"
Johnny looked down and closed his eyes. "Yeah…'m okay."
"As I am sure you know this is a lot of attention for just any bestselling novel. You see what makes this bestselling novel special is the things the author has decided to do with the profits from the novel. We are here today to make some presentations. Mr. Gage, Johnny, as he is known to his closest family and friends, has decided to use the royalties from his novel to benefit others, first of all his crewmates. John has given each member of the A-shift of this station a share of his royalties and each of his partner, Roy Desoto's children an equal share to put towards their educations. The interesting thing about Roy and Joanne Desoto's children is their names, Christopher and Jennifer who John calls Jenny Bean. Have you figured it out yet? Chris J. Bean."
Another round of applause spread through the crowd. Johnny began to feel a little less nervous when the attention shifted from him to Chris and Jenny who happily posed for several pictures and smiled for the TV cameras.
"John has also made a sizeable donation to Rampart General Hospital for the ER and the burn ward. Finally, he also contributed to the Fireman's Fund For Widows and Children."
If possible the applause was even louder this time.
"Now you probably thought that we asked you here to make those presentations, but actually John already did that. He is here because we asked him to come." The Chief turned toward Johnny. "John, we have a few surprises for you today." Johnny's mouth opened and he turned from the Chief to Roy and back. "Captain Stanley, would you join me at the podium?" Hank came up beside the Chief. "John, Hank has something he'd like to tell you." The Chief stepped aside and gave the mike to Hank."
Hank had to bend over slightly to speak into the mike on the podium, cleared his throat and looking at Johnny began explaining how each of the members of the A-shift had agreed to donate 1% of their share of the proceeds to the Fireman's fund in honor of Johnny. He also explained that a challenge had gone out county wide to every fireman to make individual donations in his honor. 100% of the members of the LA County Fire Department had made some kind of donation to the special fund in Johnny's honor. "John it is in this way that we honor you." Hank walked over to Johnny and extended his hand. Johnny took it and looked into his Captain's eyes. Hank pulled Johnny into a fatherly hug. "I'm real proud of you son, real proud."
"Thank you Cap. I…I don't know what to say." Johnny turned and hugged Roy and then moved to Mike, Chet, and then Marco. He didn't care if it wasn't cool for a guy to hug another guy. He was overwhelmed by what they had done.
The Chief took the mike back. "Ladies and Gentlemen, I would like to introduce you to Dr. Kelly Brackett, head of Emergency Care at Rampart."
Dr. Brackett moved to the podium. Dr. Early, Dr. Morton and Dixie stood beside him. "Johnny, in keeping with your generosity, the medical staff at Rampart has pooled together to match your donation to the ER and Burn Units. I am proud to say that as of thirty minutes ago, we accomplished that goal. Thanks to you we will have the most equipped Emergency Room in the County and the burn unit will be able to expand two fold."
Johnny lowered his eyes to his shoes. He couldn't believe what he was hearing. He'd divided the proceeds to help his friends. He hadn't expected them to do all of this. He thought he was coming here today to get a big poster board check from the publishers. He never expected any of this.
"Finally, ladies and gentlemen, I give you Johnny Gage."
Johnny's eyes shot up. He nervously looked from Brackett, to Roy…from Roy to Cap…from Cap to the large crowd of people who had come there to witness this presentation. He stepped toward the podium. His breathing increased. Sweat beaded on his forehead. Roy sensing Johnny's unstable movement walked with him to the podium. "Um…hi…I'm John…Johnny. I don't know what to say." He looked around at his friends. "Th…thank you." He stammered. "Thanks you so very much." He closed his eyes against the dizziness that had crept in. He swayed slightly. "I'm honored. I never expected…" He couldn't continue. He was at a loss for words.
"Mr. Gage, will you be writing another book?" A reported called from the audience.
Johnny looked up again. "I don't know. Maybe."
"Mr. Gage, will you be resigning from your job?" Another reported yelled.
"No…no I won't."
"Mr. Gage, is it true that you are single?" This question came from a reporter with a softer feminine voice.
"Yes."
"Mr. Gage, where is your family. Why are they not here?" This question hit like a slap on Johnny's face.
"This is my family." Johnny looked at Joanne and the kids. Then he closed his eyes and swayed hard to one side. He tried to compensate and stumbled against the podium. Roy and Dr. Brackett came up on either side of him and took him by each arm. They steered him to a nearby chair and promptly helped him lower his head between his knees until the dizziness subsided.
Dr. Early walked up to the mike. "Please excuse the interruption. Johnny is still recovering from a serious head injury." Gasps could be heard from the crowd. "He's on the road to recovery and will be fine in time. He is experiencing some very strong dizziness and headaches." He turned to the Chief to take over.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, thank you for coming today to celebrate these great achievements. I assure you that Mr. Gage will be just fine and will return to his position as Paramedic post haste. We ask that you keep your visit short, so that we can get Station 51 back in service to protect the citizens of LA County. Thank you."
The newscasters packed away their video cameras. The antennae trucks lowered the tall portable transmitters. The photographers tucked their cameras back into their cases. Most of the media had left within minutes. The dog and pony show was over. There was nothing of media interest to report. They were moving on to the next big lead.
Some of the firemen milled around just long enough to make sure Johnny was all right. The Chief and other dignitaries congratulated the members of the A-shift, the staff at Rampart and wished Johnny well. Then they too departed.
Roy helped Johnny move from the chair in the bay to the kitchen and got him a cold glass of water. Joanne and the kids caught a ride home with Hank Stanley's wife, so they could start getting ready for the cookout the A-shift had planned for later in the day.
The Engine and Squad could be heard moving back to their assigned parking spots in the bay.
Things at Station 51 were slowly getting back to normal.
The End…(or is it?)
But when Johnny did finally feel calm enough to get out of Roy's station wagon and across the back lot at Station 51 that's where he knew he was. Home.
Although he had written a successful novel that apparently if the news media flying overhead was any indication had stirred up a lot of attention. He smiled up at the circling whirly birds knowing that this is exactly what the fire department public relations department had hoped for.
He felt Roy's hand cross his back and lightly grip his shoulder. "You ready for this?"
Johnny looked at his best friend and smiled. "No, but do I have a choice?"
"Nope." The two friends chuckled.
"That's what I thought."
Dr. Early had gone back inside earlier leaving Johnny in Roy's capable hands which left the two friends a few minutes alone.
"Johnny, no matter what happens in there. You will always be my partner, even when we both move up to Captain or retire from this madness. You and I, we will still be best friends." Roy wanted to make sure Johnny knew how much he cared about him, before the frenzy took over his life.
Johnny stopped just before opening the kitchen door. Flash bulbs flickered from down the side drive where Vince still maintained a safe perimeter. Johnny smiled at his friend. "Roy, I'm not going anywhere. This..." He waved at the door. "...is where I belong. This is home to me. It's all I've ever wanted to do and as for the writing..." He paused trying to get the words together to express what he was trying to say. Even though he could write an exciting, drama filled, adventurous novel, when things became very important, he couldn't seem to string two words together and make sense. "...well it's just...you know...a way to...um..." He looked at Roy expectantly.
"A way to share that love for what we do with people who might not know about it otherwise," Roy helped him. "A way to help them understand the dangers we face, the terrible fact that crazy people often start fires that effect innocent victims, and how much being able to save someone's home, their business and most importantly their family means to a fire fighter."
"Yeah...yeah that's right partner." Johnny beamed with pride. "And to take the proceeds and give something back to the department...and Rampart since home is where the heart is." His hand splayed across his chest. "My heart is full because of this...because of friends like you."
Roy cupped Johnny's neck and pulled him into a quick embrace that thanks to telephoto lenses would be shared by many in the weeks to come. Newspapers, fans, television news programs and many friends would smile at that image for a long time to come.
Realizing that they were drawing a lot of attention the two men separated quickly and grabbed for the door knob at the same time. Neither one liked to be the center of attention. They hurried into the kitchen and slammed the door. Seeing the small group around the kitchen/dayroom area looking over at them with wide eyes, they broke out into laughter and moved further into the room. Out of habit they both grabbed a coffee cup from the drain tray and poured themselves some. Both turned around and leaned against the counter and raised their cups in tandem.
Looking around the room, Johnny saw many of his closest friends: Dr. Brackett, Dr. Early, Dixie, and Dr. Morton from Rampart. They were all wearing nice clothes. He couldn't help but smile at how nice they looked in suits and a dress. Next he noticed Captain Stanley, Chet, Marco and Mike all in their dress uniforms. Across the room playing with Henry he saw Chris and Jennifer with Joanne all dressed in their Sunday best. He glanced at Roy and smiled. They were also dressed in what Johnny called his Sunday best, which actually was his dress uniform. Basically he had a few ties and sport coats, but he didn't really wear suits. It seemed strange for them all to be dressed so nicely when there wasn't a funeral or wedding today.
"Well John, I think we have a presentation to attend to in the bay." Captain Stanley as usual took charge of the situation.
Johnny and Roy both took one final sip of coffee just like they would if the tones had called them to the Squad. They placed the cups in the sink.
"We'll all go out first, and then you can follow. Okay everyone let's go." Captain Stanley waited by the door for Joanne and the kids. He ushered everyone through and then hesitated for a second when the only ones left in the room were he, Roy and Johnny. He turned to Johnny, "I don't think I can quite explain how proud I am of you right now." He gripped Johnny's shoulder and then turned and opened the door for the three of them.
As soon as they entered the bay applause erupted.
Johnny blushed and stopped in his tracks, his eyes grew wide, his mouth opened and then closed, but thanks to Dr. Early he didn't panic. He regained his composure and walked over to the Chief and extended his hand.
After shaking hands with all of the dignitaries Johnny made his way around to a few of the other guests. He smiled as he walked up to some of his original crew from Station 10.
"Hey Boot!" The former Engineer from when he first graduated from the academy, Dale Scott, called to him as he walked up.
"Scotty are you ever going to stop calling me that?" He looked down at his feet before raising his eyes to meet those of his long time friend.
"Nope." Scotty laughed loudly and slapped Johnny on the back.
"Wow Gage, you still know how to stir things up don't cha?" Lineman Jim Graves shook hands with him next.
Then Johnny bent down to shake hands with Jim's brother Cody who was in a wheel chair. "What happened to you?"
"Oh you know how it is." Cody shrugged. "Ceiling decides at the last minute, just before you can get out of the way to land on your head; then the beam that was holding it decides to land on your leg." He smiled.
Johnny smiled too. "Yeah, I think I can relate to that. Man, it sure is good to see you guys." Just before he moved to the next group of friends from the B-Shift of Station 51 another long time friend from Station 10 came over. "Jeff!"
"Hey Johnny, congratulations on the book," Jeff extended his hand; Johnny took it. "It's good to see you up. We heard you were injured…again." He smiled.
"You heard right. He's still on the injured list." Roy said as he walked up beside Johnny. "Hey Junior, I think they're ready for you."
"JUNIOR!" Cody and Jim said at the same time, and burst into laughter.
Johnny turned three shades of red and quickly made his escape. "See you guys."
He moved back toward the podium stopping along the way to shake hands with his old high school buddy turned Paramedic Gil Robinson and his former Rescue Squad partner Tony Freeman.
At the podium the Chief walked up to the mike and everyone gathered closer. Cameras flashed. TV and radio announcers could be heard greeting their imaginary audiences. Johnny's once red face had now paled. Roy hovered at his elbow in case Johnny wavered. "Ladies and gentlemen, distinguished guests it is my great pleasure to welcome you to Los Angeles County Fire Station 51, home of LA's newest fireman turned novelist, Chris J. Bean, otherwise known as John Roderick Gage." Applause echoed through the bay. Johnny's already pale complexion turned white.
Roy whispered in his ear. "You okay?"
Johnny looked down and closed his eyes. "Yeah…'m okay."
"As I am sure you know this is a lot of attention for just any bestselling novel. You see what makes this bestselling novel special is the things the author has decided to do with the profits from the novel. We are here today to make some presentations. Mr. Gage, Johnny, as he is known to his closest family and friends, has decided to use the royalties from his novel to benefit others, first of all his crewmates. John has given each member of the A-shift of this station a share of his royalties and each of his partner, Roy Desoto's children an equal share to put towards their educations. The interesting thing about Roy and Joanne Desoto's children is their names, Christopher and Jennifer who John calls Jenny Bean. Have you figured it out yet? Chris J. Bean."
Another round of applause spread through the crowd. Johnny began to feel a little less nervous when the attention shifted from him to Chris and Jenny who happily posed for several pictures and smiled for the TV cameras.
"John has also made a sizeable donation to Rampart General Hospital for the ER and the burn ward. Finally, he also contributed to the Fireman's Fund For Widows and Children."
If possible the applause was even louder this time.
"Now you probably thought that we asked you here to make those presentations, but actually John already did that. He is here because we asked him to come." The Chief turned toward Johnny. "John, we have a few surprises for you today." Johnny's mouth opened and he turned from the Chief to Roy and back. "Captain Stanley, would you join me at the podium?" Hank came up beside the Chief. "John, Hank has something he'd like to tell you." The Chief stepped aside and gave the mike to Hank."
Hank had to bend over slightly to speak into the mike on the podium, cleared his throat and looking at Johnny began explaining how each of the members of the A-shift had agreed to donate 1% of their share of the proceeds to the Fireman's fund in honor of Johnny. He also explained that a challenge had gone out county wide to every fireman to make individual donations in his honor. 100% of the members of the LA County Fire Department had made some kind of donation to the special fund in Johnny's honor. "John it is in this way that we honor you." Hank walked over to Johnny and extended his hand. Johnny took it and looked into his Captain's eyes. Hank pulled Johnny into a fatherly hug. "I'm real proud of you son, real proud."
"Thank you Cap. I…I don't know what to say." Johnny turned and hugged Roy and then moved to Mike, Chet, and then Marco. He didn't care if it wasn't cool for a guy to hug another guy. He was overwhelmed by what they had done.
The Chief took the mike back. "Ladies and Gentlemen, I would like to introduce you to Dr. Kelly Brackett, head of Emergency Care at Rampart."
Dr. Brackett moved to the podium. Dr. Early, Dr. Morton and Dixie stood beside him. "Johnny, in keeping with your generosity, the medical staff at Rampart has pooled together to match your donation to the ER and Burn Units. I am proud to say that as of thirty minutes ago, we accomplished that goal. Thanks to you we will have the most equipped Emergency Room in the County and the burn unit will be able to expand two fold."
Johnny lowered his eyes to his shoes. He couldn't believe what he was hearing. He'd divided the proceeds to help his friends. He hadn't expected them to do all of this. He thought he was coming here today to get a big poster board check from the publishers. He never expected any of this.
"Finally, ladies and gentlemen, I give you Johnny Gage."
Johnny's eyes shot up. He nervously looked from Brackett, to Roy…from Roy to Cap…from Cap to the large crowd of people who had come there to witness this presentation. He stepped toward the podium. His breathing increased. Sweat beaded on his forehead. Roy sensing Johnny's unstable movement walked with him to the podium. "Um…hi…I'm John…Johnny. I don't know what to say." He looked around at his friends. "Th…thank you." He stammered. "Thanks you so very much." He closed his eyes against the dizziness that had crept in. He swayed slightly. "I'm honored. I never expected…" He couldn't continue. He was at a loss for words.
"Mr. Gage, will you be writing another book?" A reported called from the audience.
Johnny looked up again. "I don't know. Maybe."
"Mr. Gage, will you be resigning from your job?" Another reported yelled.
"No…no I won't."
"Mr. Gage, is it true that you are single?" This question came from a reporter with a softer feminine voice.
"Yes."
"Mr. Gage, where is your family. Why are they not here?" This question hit like a slap on Johnny's face.
"This is my family." Johnny looked at Joanne and the kids. Then he closed his eyes and swayed hard to one side. He tried to compensate and stumbled against the podium. Roy and Dr. Brackett came up on either side of him and took him by each arm. They steered him to a nearby chair and promptly helped him lower his head between his knees until the dizziness subsided.
Dr. Early walked up to the mike. "Please excuse the interruption. Johnny is still recovering from a serious head injury." Gasps could be heard from the crowd. "He's on the road to recovery and will be fine in time. He is experiencing some very strong dizziness and headaches." He turned to the Chief to take over.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, thank you for coming today to celebrate these great achievements. I assure you that Mr. Gage will be just fine and will return to his position as Paramedic post haste. We ask that you keep your visit short, so that we can get Station 51 back in service to protect the citizens of LA County. Thank you."
The newscasters packed away their video cameras. The antennae trucks lowered the tall portable transmitters. The photographers tucked their cameras back into their cases. Most of the media had left within minutes. The dog and pony show was over. There was nothing of media interest to report. They were moving on to the next big lead.
Some of the firemen milled around just long enough to make sure Johnny was all right. The Chief and other dignitaries congratulated the members of the A-shift, the staff at Rampart and wished Johnny well. Then they too departed.
Roy helped Johnny move from the chair in the bay to the kitchen and got him a cold glass of water. Joanne and the kids caught a ride home with Hank Stanley's wife, so they could start getting ready for the cookout the A-shift had planned for later in the day.
The Engine and Squad could be heard moving back to their assigned parking spots in the bay.
Things at Station 51 were slowly getting back to normal.
The End…(or is it?)
