Date: Fri, 10 Feb 2012 22:13:21 -0500 (EST)
From: tmabare <tmabare@aol.com>
Subject: The Captain of My Dreams - 9

This story is a work of fiction.  The events in this story are fictional.
The characters in this story do not exist, any resemblance to real people
is purely coincidental.  Any use of celebrity or other real persons is
entirely fictional and in no way reflects upon their actual sexual
orientation.  This story contains erotic and/or sexually explicit
activities between consenting adults.  If you are under age, find this type
of work offensive, or it is illegal for you to view this, do not read it.

The Captain of My Dreams -- Part 9
By tmabare
Copyright 2012

* * *
From Part 8
* * *

When Edward emerged from Elizabeth's room he went looking for Teddy.
Instead, he found Devon sitting in the living room listening to the stereo.
He fell onto the couch across from Devon and shook his head.  "Well, that
was something I never imagined having to do."

"Yeah, I can't even fathom what it must have been like in there."

"Where's Teddy?"  Edward was surprised that he wasn't there.

"He and Viktor went on a food run.  Ted said he needed steaks for tonight."
Devon looked at his watch, "They should have been back by now, traffic must
have been bad."

"So, since we're alone... Tell me what you think of Teddy."  Edward didn't
want to put Devon on the spot, but he really was interested in what Devon
thought of his boyfriend.

"Where do I start?  I think he has to be about the most caring and giving
person I've ever met.  Just look at everything he has done for me and he
just met me."  Devon smiled, "He's very easy on the eyes too, I so get what
you see in him.  I think you two make an amazing couple and I hope to one
day find what you two have."

"You will Devon.  I think of myself as incredibly lucky every morning I
wake up next to him.  The way he has opened his heart to me, Bess, and you
too tells me I made the right choice in following my heart."

The ringing of Edward's mobile stopped their conversation.  When he looked
at the caller ID it was Tony.  "Hey mate, you guys still coming right?"

The sound of a siren in the background almost hid the near panic in Tony's
voice.  "Edward, you need to get to Saint Mary's Hospital, it's Ted."

* * * Part 9 * * *

"What? What do you mean?  What happened?"  Edward's voice was just under a
yell.

"I'm still trying to get the details.  Right now, all I know is that they
have transported Ted to Saint Mary's and he is seriously injured.  Do you
have a way to get there?"

"I'll get a taxi..."

"No.  We'll be there in five minutes."  The line went dead.

Edward looked at Devon, his eyes were moist "Can you watch Bess.  Something
has happened to Teddy, he's in the hospital."  He was getting up when Devon
stood and reached for his arm.

"Call me when you know something."  He wrapped Edward in a quick hug before
releasing him to head downstairs.

"Don't say anything to Elizabeth yet.  Just tell her I had to run out."
With that last comment Edward was out the door and headed down the lift.
While he was on the lift he wished he'd run down the stairs. `I can't lose
him.'

The doors opened and two of the Jackson Global security team were standing
there waiting to go up.  The younger of the two extended his hand, "Captain
Smythe, I'm Vladimir."

Edward shook the young man's hand, but continued walking towards the
entrance.  "Nice to meet you, do you know what's going on?"

"I've only gotten bits and pieces.  We were coming up to see if you needed
a ride to the hospital?"

"No, I'm riding over with friends.  What can you tell me?"

"Mr. Jackson and Viktor were coming out of The Ginger Pig when a male
attacked them.  We haven't really heard anything else.  We're going to head
to the hospital and I've increased security here at the flat for the time
being."

Edward shook the man's hand.  "Thanks, Vladimir.  I'll see you at the
hospital."

As they walked outside Edward heard a siren getting much closer.  Edward
practically ran down the steps and headed for Prince Consort Road.  As he
got to the curb, Tony and Andrew pulled up in their unmarked police Range
Rover.  Edward jumped into the back seat and the three headed off north to
cross Hyde Park.  Andrew was driving as Tony looked back towards Edward.

Edward leaned forward, "What the fuck is going on?"

"It looks like there was a third person working with MacMullen and Mary.
His name is Billie MacMullen, the younger brother.  From what we know to
this point, he followed Ted and Viktor when they went shopping earlier.  He
was waiting for them to walk out of the Ginger Pig.  He pulled a knife when
he walked up behind Teddy and stabbed him in the back.  When Ted went down,
Viktor tried to stop him from stabbing Teddy again and he stabbed Viktor in
the neck."

Edward fell back against the seat and covered his face with his hands.  He
knew the tears would be starting to flow shortly. `Why hadn't I the one,
why hadn't I been there to protect Teddy?'  The questions and guilt were
flowing in his mind and he could feel himself starting to shut down.  It
was then he felt Tony's hand on his shoulder.

"Edward, you need to be strong."  He made sure he squeezed his friend's
shoulder as he said it. "He's going to need your strength and your love to
get through this."

Edward wiped his eyes and sat back up, "Thanks mate, you're right.  Did you
catch the bastard?"

"We didn't need to. Ted took care of it for us.  After MacMullen stabbed
Viktor, Ted was able to get back on his feet and was ready for him."  Tony
smiled, "In case you didn't know, that is some man you've got there.  From
what I've heard from the officers on scene, they think Ted shattered the
bones in the guy's leg.  The witnesses said Ted was trying to get him to
give up, but then the idiot lunged at him with the knife again."

"Damn..."  Edward thought back to their discussion in Savannah.  "Teddy was
brutalized when he was in college.  After it happened, he learned how to
defend himself.  Guess he really did, huh?"

"He did mate, he surely did.  When the guy came after him with the knife
again, Ted blocked it and ended up forcing MacMullen to stab himself with
the knife before he shattered his arm."

"Fuck...  I would've never thought..."  Edward's voice trailed off.

"Mate, like I said, he's quite a man."  Tony Paused, "I hate to ask this,
but do you have numbers for his family in case?"

"Yeah, I have his cousin's number.  Once I know what his condition is I'll
call John."  Edward sat back and thought about everything Tony had told
him.  For at least the second time in Teddy's life he had been the victim
of violence.  This time Edward felt responsible.  It was all because of his
ex-wife that Teddy was now in the hospital fighting for his life.
`Somehow, I will make this up to him."

* * *

Walking into the A&E at Saint Mary's was like walking into a war zone.
Tony had told Edward that there had been a major accident not far from the
hospital on top of everything else.  There were people running around
everywhere and the noise was unbelievably loud considering it was a
hospital.  Tony and Andrew were leading the way towards a group of
uniformed police.

The most senior officer present was a uniformed Sergeant and he extended
his hand towards Tony. "Inspector Price."

"Good to see you Richard.  Have you talked to the doctor yet?"

"No, we're still waiting to see him."

"I'll handle that now that I'm here.  How is Mr. Siminov?"

"He didn't make it Inspector."

Edward felt like he had been punched in the gut, even though he had lost
people before.  He had been there when his troopers had been killed in
Afghanistan and he had seen men die in Iraq. This was different, these
weren't soldiers in war.  These were men on the streets of London and not
just any men at that.

It was then that a doctor approached the group of police, "Who's in charge
here?"

Tony turned to look at the young doctor, "I am, Inspector Tony Price."  He
turned and looked at Edward.  "This is Captain Edward Smythe, he's
Mr. Jackson's..."

Edward extended his hand interrupting Tony, "Partner...  How is Teddy?"

"I'm Doctor Alexander," he shook Edward's hand and then placed his hand on
Edward's arm, "let's talk someplace more private."

"Tony... Andrew... Please come with us.  Doctor, these are also personal
friends of ours, I'd like them to be present."

"Of course, Captain."

They walked into a small consultation room away from the rest of the ward.
The doctor turned and looked at Edward.  "Well, considering what
Mr. Jackson has been through he's in remarkable good shape.  The knife
missed any major nerves, but we think it nicked a kidney and did some
muscle damage.  We're getting ready to take him to surgery.  He's lost a
lot of blood and we're having a hard time getting the bleeding stopped."

"Is he going to..."

"Not if I have anything to say about it.  I'm not going to give you false
hope though.  He's still fairly young and strong, so that is on his side.
Right now, we've got him pretty medicated, but he's awake.  Do you want to
see him before he goes up stairs?"

"Yes, please."  For the first time since the phone call from Tony, Edward
smiled.  The thought of just being able to see Teddy, brighten his mood.

"Ok, I'll take you back, but it's going to have to be just you."

Edward looked at Tony, who had seen the smile on Edward's face and was now
smiling back at him.  "Go ahead mate.  We'll be out there waiting for you."

Edward quickly hugged Tony and then Andrew before he followed the doctor
further back in the A&E ward.  They passed a number of rooms before they
entered a large room marked "Trauma 1."

Teddy was on his side facing away from the door.  Edward could see where
the stab wound on Teddy's back was.  It was covered with some blood soaked
bandages and Edward could see that Teddy's clothes had been cut from his
body.  He was covered only by a sheet and there seemed to be tubes and
wires everywhere.  Edward leaned over and put his lips near Teddy's ear.
"Babe, if you didn't want to have people over for dinner, all you had to do
was tell me."  He then kissed Teddy on the neck, before he walked around
the bed.

Teddy smiled when he heard Edward's voice and tears started falling when he
got to look into those green eyes.  His voice was slurred from the
medication.  "So... sorry... love you."

"I love you too babe."  He leaned closer and kissed Teddy's lips softly.

"It... was man... this morning... outside... flat."

"Damn it.  I knew I should have gone out after him when you told me."

"Not... your fault.  Is Viktor?"

"No babe, he didn't make it."  Edward kissed Teddy again, "Don't think
about that right now.  Please, you need to be strong.  Bess and I need
you."  Edward could feel himself starting to cry again.

"I tried... he wouldn't stop... had to..."

"I know babe.  You did what you had to."  Edward swallowed hard, "I can't
live without you babe.  You mean everything to me, I love you so much."
Edward leaned closer and kissed Teddy again.

An alarm sounded from the monitor above Teddy.  A nurse who was standing
there looked at the doctor, "His pressure is dropping, doctor."

Doctor Alexander looked at Edward, "It's time to go, sorry."

Teddy reached out to grab Edward's hand that was on the bed "I
love... you... all... my heart.  Call John... tell him... not call mother.
Edward... I love..."  He lost consciousness before he could finish.

Edward leaned over and kissed Teddy's forehead before he was rushed out of
the room.  After he was gone from the room, Edward broke down and cried.
He couldn't' remember the last time he had cried like this.  Obviously
Teddy was bringing out more than just love from him, all of his emotions
were stronger than they had ever been before.  After a few minutes he was
able to regain his composure and headed back to the waiting room.

On the way he was stopped by one of the nurses, "Captain Smythe, would you
like to go upstairs to the surgical waiting room?  It is more comfortable
than down here and it's more private."

"Yes, thank you."  They walked out in the waiting room, gathered Tony and
Andrew and headed to the lift.

Tony stopped at the charge nurse's desk, "Do you have Mr. Jackson's
property?"

"Yes sir, I just need you to sign for it."

"Thank you."  Tony signed the paperwork and then handed the bag to Edward.

Edward reached inside and retrieved Teddy's cell phone. "Thanks, mate."

* * *

When they walked into the surgical waiting room it was empty.  Tony and
Andrew picked a comfortable looking couch and sat down together.  Tony
immediately pulled out his mobile phone and started making calls to his
superiors with updates.

Edward was not looking forward to what he had to do next.  He took out his
own mobile and scrolled down to John's number and hit the send button.

"John Hillsgrove."

"John, it's Edward."  Edward's voice sounded tired and full of raw emotion.

"Hey man, you don't sound good... what's wrong?"

"John, Teddy's been stabbed.  He's in emergency surgery right now."

Edward could hear the gasp John made, and there was a moment of silence
before John started talking again.  "Damn it, how the fuck did that
happen?"

"Long story, mate...  I'm so sorry... All I can say is it's my fault."

"Wait... Did you stab him?"  John knew he needed to do something to snap
Edward out of what he was thinking.

"Fuck no, John!"

"Then knock that shit off.  You need to be strong for him, and stop blaming
yourself."  John paused as he thought, "Ok, let me call Laura and we'll
figure out a way to get there.  We'll be there as fast as we can."

"Let me make a call before you do that."  Edward knew exactly what to do.
At least, he'd learned that much from Teddy already.  "I'll call you back
in a few minutes."

"Ok man, is there anything you need me to do from this end?"

"Only one thing I can think of, Teddy was very specific. He didn't want
anyone to call his mother."

"No problem with that.  Can you imagine the trouble she would fucking
cause?  Call me back."

When he hung up his phone, he retrieved Teddy's from the bag again and
scrolled thru the contacts before hitting send.

"Hey boss, what's up?  I'm headed to the flat right now."

"Dustin, it's Edward."

"Hey, Edward.  How did you get the boss's phone?  He usually guards that
thing like there is no tomorrow."

Edward took a deep breath, "Dustin, Teddy's been stabbed and is in
emergency surgery here at Saint Mary's Hospital."

"Oh shit!"  Dustin said a quick silent prayer, "What do you need me to do?"

* * *

After calling John back, Edward called Devon at the flat and then his own
mother and father.  When he was done, Edward sat down across from Tony and
Andrew and just wanted to collapse.  He couldn't remember the last time he
felt this drained.  Even when Bess first called him in Savannah, that day
was nothing compared to this feeling.

Andrew leaned forward, "Edward why don't you go down to the caf and get
something to eat?  Tony and I will stay here until you get back.  If Doctor
Alexander comes in we'll call you or run down to get you."

"Thanks, mate.  Not sure if I will be able to eat, but I think I will go
down.  I haven't eaten since this morning."  He got up and headed out of
the waiting room.  As he walked out of the door he noticed that Vladimir
was standing in the hallway.  "Vladimir, I didn't realize you were out
here.  You should have come inside and waited with us."

"I didn't want to bother you Captain.  Can you tell me how Mr. Jackson is?"

"First off, it's just Edward.  It wouldn't be a bother, trust me, we'd like
the company and support from anyone who cares about Teddy.  I was going to
head down to the caf, walk with me?"  Vladimir nodded and they started down
the hall, "Ted's in surgery right now.  You look very familiar, are you?"
As soon as it came out of his mouth, he realized exactly who this young man
was.

"Yes, Viktor was my father."  There was sadness in his voice.

"Oh my God," Edward felt like an idiot for not realizing sooner.  He
couldn't believe this man had just lost his father and was still there with
him.  "I'm so sorry for your loss.  Why don't you..."

Vladimir half smiled, "No sir.  My father wouldn't want me to be anywhere
except here for you and Mr. Jackson.  He took his responsibilities very
seriously and he raised me the same way.  He would never forgive me if I
abandoned my post, or turned it over to anyone else right now.  My family
owes so much to the Jacksons, we will be repaying it for generations."

Edward placed his hand on the young man's shoulder.  "Well, I for one
appreciate your loyalty.  It means a great deal to me and I know I speak
for Teddy also."  He released his grip and started walking again, "Care to
join me for some lunch?"

"Yes, sir.  As long as I won't be intruding, I haven't eaten since
breakfast and I'm starving."  Vladimir was impressed by this man.  He
seemed to be just like Ted in so many ways, but also so different.  His
father had told him that Edward was an honorable man and was to be
respected.  Now talking with him, he knew that his father was right.

Both men headed off towards the lift.  Edward was thinking about how funny
it was that Teddy has surrounded himself with people who were professional,
polite, loyal and also very attractive.  He had yet to meet anyone who
worked closely with Teddy who wasn't extremely good looking.  `I'm going to
have to talk to him about that.'  Edward smiled to himself when he thought
it.

* * *

Five hours after they had rushed Ted into surgery, Dr. Alexander walked
into the waiting room.  Edward wasn't paying attention and Andrew touched
his arm to get his attention.  They had been joined earlier by Vladimir,
Devon, Elizabeth, Edward's parents and Mr. Wright.  Edward had recognized
Mr. Wright's name when he introduced himself.  The man was the head of the
Legal Department for the London Office of Jackson Global.

Dr. Alexander walked over to Edward, who had stood up to shake the man's
hand. "Captain Smythe."

"Doctor, how is he?" Edward's voice didn't betray the fear he was feeling.

"The surgery took longer than I expected.  When we got in there we found
the bowel had been perforated by the knife.  We were able to repair it,
along with the damage to the kidney and the renal vein.  Thankfully, there
is no more bleeding, but we're going to have to watch for infection now."

"Thank God."  The relief in Edward's voice could almost be felt by all
those in the room.  Rose stood and held her son's hand.  "When can I see
him?"

"He'll be in the Intensive Care Unit as soon as he gets out of the recovery
room.  Once he's moved I'll arrange for you to see him."  Dr. Alexander
turned and addressed everyone else in the room, "We are going to have to
limit who can see him until we move him to a normal ward, I'm afraid.  We
don't want him over taxing himself with visitors."

No one spoke, until Tony addressed the doctor. "We all understand doctor,
it's just important that Edward sees him."  Everyone else nodded their
agreement.

The doctor turned back to Edward, "Ok, I'll have someone come and get you
as soon as we can."

When Dr. Alexander had left the room, Edward turned and faced everyone who
had gathered.  "I want to thank all of you for being here.  It means a
great deal to me that you were here to support Teddy."  Edward could feel
himself starting to cry and was soon wrapped in the arms of his mother.  He
was trying hard to not completely break down in front of these people, but
he couldn't control all of it.

"Edward, it's ok.  He's going to be fine." Rose whispered into her son's
ear.

Edward responded quietly, "Mum, I was so scared I was going to lose him.
We just found each other... I can't believe this happened."

"Shhhh, it'll be ok son."  Rose smiled to herself, "You know...  If you'd
have let Ted and I go see that bitch, we could have..."

Edward stood up straight and looked into his mother's eyes.  He couldn't
help but laugh, "You're right.  Then again I would have been visiting the
two of you in prison."  He paused for a minute, "Have you talked to
Williams yet?"

"Oh yes, he's fine dear.  He had practice this afternoon or he would've
been here already.  He's going to come after he gets a shower and changes."
She smiled as she said it.

Edward finally smiled and released his mother looking around the room.

Mr. Wright walked over to him.  "Captain Smythe, can I speak to you for a
moment?"

"Of course, please call me Edward.  Mr. Wright, I've wanted to thank you
for your help in arranging for Mr. Blackburn."  The men took a seat at a
small table in the waiting room.

"I was very glad I could be of assistance.  It's not often I get to even be
a part of helping a child.  I know this isn't the best time, but I have
some things I need to give you and have you sign."  Mr. Wright reached into
his attaché and removed several envelopes and a stack of paperwork.  "Ted
sent me an email on Sunday with instructions and then gave me further
instructions earlier this week when I saw him.  I know he wanted to do this
himself, but right now I think it's more important we get this done
immediately... under the circumstances."

"What's this all about?"

Mr. Wright started through the paperwork first.  "The first thing we need
to go over is a binding Power of Attorney and a Medical Proxy that Ted
signed naming you.  This gives you full authority to handle all of his
affairs and also make decisions about his medical care.  I have already
provided a copy to the hospital earlier."

Edward didn't know what to say, he had no clue Teddy had done this. "I wish
I'd known..."

"You know how he can be when he sets his mind to something.  I told him to
talk to you about all of this before he had me do it.  I'm sorry, like I
said he had planned on going over all of this with you himself."

"There is nothing for you to be sorry for Mr. Wright.  As always, he is
thinking one step ahead of me.  When you have time, I'd really like you to
prepare the same paperwork for me, naming Teddy."

"I've already taken the liberty and done that Edward.  I had the feeling,
from what Ted had said, that you would probably want the same thing done."
He pulled a stack from the pile and started having Edward sign them.  He
looked over at Tony, "Inspector, can you and Sergeant Green witness these
please?"

Tony and Andrew moved quickly to where Edward and Mr. Wright were sitting.
They signed the spots Mr. Wright indicated and then moved back to their
seats on the couch.

"That brings us to the more delicate items."  He then removed several
envelopes from his attaché, handing Edward the first.

Edward opened the first envelope and removed a credit card from inside the
envelope.  He saw it was a purple Coutts World Card, he had seen a similar
one in Teddy's wallet when they went to John Lewis the other day.  Then he
noticed the card had his name on it.  "I don't understand..."

"Ted has had you added to all of his accounts.  I have signature cards here
that you need to sign for most of the accounts.  You don't have to go
through all of the envelopes now, the others I have here for you contain an
American Express Centurion card, and several more cards that are linked to
accounts here in the UK and also in the United States."

"Why did he..."  The confusion was evident in Edward's voice.  He didn't
want any of this, he only wanted Teddy.

"Because, he loves you more than you know.  He wanted to make sure that you
and Elizabeth were taken care of if anything was to ever happen to him.  I
guess he didn't realize just how quickly..."  He stopped his sentence and
looked at Edward, "Right now we need to just follow his instructions and
then the two of you can talk about it when he leaves the hospital."

Edward nodded, feeling entirely overwhelmed.  "We never have even talked
about money.  We've joked about it, but never actually..."

"Let me just say, there is no way you could put even a small dent in any of
those accounts if you tried your hardest, so don't worry about it."  He
then pulled another set of paperwork out of the case.  "Mr. Jackson also
had me set up your own set of accounts at Coutts.  He thought you may want
to have separate accounts to keep your own monies.  There is some paperwork
you need to sign and then we'll set up a time for you to go and meet the
team at their Private Office group.  They will be issuing you separate
cards for that account."

"Well, I was going to ask him if he thought I should change banks and open
an investment account.  I guess that answers that question."  He smiled,
"He and I are going to have a REALLY long talk when he gets out of the
hospital."

Mr. Wright had been suspicious of Edward when he and Ted had talked earlier
in the week.  Now that he was interacting with this young man, those fears
were completely gone.  Mr. Wright saw nothing but a man who was in love
with Ted Jackson, not someone who was after money.  Sarah Jackson had
called him and asked him to prevent this moment from happening.  He was
glad that he had dismissed her request.

He then pulled another stack of paperwork from his case, "This is your copy
of the paperwork for a trust fund Ted set up for Elizabeth.  It is a mirror
of the funds he's had created for Dylan and Matthew just after they were
born."  Mr. Wright flipped the page, "It names you as the Trustee until
Elizabeth turns twenty-four.  It has two parts, one is to pay for her
entire education, the second part pays her a stipend while she is in school
and then there is a large payment on her twenty-fourth birthday."

Rose and Stephen just looked at each other.  Neither could believe the
generosity of the man they had only just met towards their granddaughter.

Edward just shook his head as he read the paperwork.  He thought to
himself, `I'll never be worthy of him, but I will try every day.'  Edward
looked up at the man who had just given him so much to think about,
"Mr. Wright, thank you.  But, I'd trade everything if this hadn't
happened."

"I know."  The man then turned and looked at Devon, "Mr. Baker, I have some
things for you also.  Ted wanted to make sure that you had access to funds
for the household and also for yourself.  There are cards for you in these
envelopes."

Devon didn't approach the table.  "I... can't take them...  He's done too
much for me already."

Edward knew exactly what Devon was feeling, "Devon, you remember us talking
about not arguing with him over money?"

"Yes, sir.  I just don't know what I've done to deserve everything he's
done for me."

"You're family.  Remember that."

Devon didn't say anything else, he just got up and walked over to where
Mr. Wright was sitting.

"Devon, the bills for these come directly to me to be paid.  Don't worry,
from what Ted has told me, he knew you wouldn't spend money on things you
didn't need.  That said though, he did leave very specific instructions.
He wanted to you spend money on some frivolous things also."  Mr. Wright
smiled as he handed the envelopes to Devon.

* * *

About an hour later, a nurse came in to the waiting room. "Captain Smythe?"

Edward stood up and walked over to her, "That's me."

"We're ready for you to come back, if you are."

"Yes, can I have just a minute?"

She didn't say anything, just smiled and nodded her head.

Edward looked around at his family and friends.  "Again, I can't thank you
all enough for being here."

Tony stood up and hugged his friend, "Andrew and I will make sure that
everyone gets home safely."

"Thanks mate... Mum... Dad..."

Stephen stood up and hugged Edward, "Go on, son."

Edward picked up Elizabeth, "You go home with Devon and be a good girl.
You ok?"

She smiled at her father, "Yes ,sir.  I just miss Mr. Ted.  Tell him I love
him and give him this..."  She leaned over and kissed Edward.

"I will sweetie and I'll see you later."  He kissed her and gave her a big
hug before handing her off to Devon.

Edward smiled at him and then turned to follow the nurse out of the waiting
room.  It wasn't very far until they walked into the ICU heading for Teddy.
When they walked into the room, Teddy was asleep.  Edward looked at the
various machines that were monitoring him and instantly thought back to
when he was injured.  He hadn't thought about his stay in the hospital in
months.

The nurse with him pulled a chair over to the side of Teddy's bed and then
patted Edward's arm.  "If you need anything, just press the call button."

He looked at her and nodded, "Thank you."

Sitting in the chair he reached out and held Teddy's hand.  He thought back
over the day they'd both had.  Not only had his ex-wife been shot and
killed but he'd almost lost the person that meant everything to him.
Edward rested his head on the chair and before he knew it he was asleep.

* * *

He woke up to the feeling of his hand being squeezed.  When his eyes opened
he was looking into Teddy's brown eyes.  Edward smiled wide and almost
jumped out of the chair, "Hey babe."

Teddy's voice was low and broken, "Hi.  I Love you."  He then swallowed
hard, "Throat hurts."

Edward pressed the call button, "Yeah, I'm sure it does.  You were in
surgery for five hours."

A different nurse came into the room, "Well, Mr. Jackson, how are you
feeling?"  He noticed that Edward and Teddy were holding hands and it made
him smile.

"Good.  Throat hurts."

"That is from the tube we had helping you breath.  Do you want some ice
chips?"

"Please."  Teddy closed his eyes and squeezed Edward's hand again.

"Ok, I'll be right back with some ice and I'll get Doctor Alexander."

A couple minutes later, Doctor Alexander walked into the room followed by
the nurse with the cup of ice chips.  He walked directly to Teddy and
started to examine him.  "Mr. Jackson, you're looking very good so far.
The throat pain will go away shortly.  We were able to repair the renal
vein that was cut and the damage to the kidney.  The one thing we weren't
expecting was your bowel was perforated.  We were able to repair it, and
we've got you on some heavy duty antibiotics and painkillers right now.
You are going to be sore, but you'll be just fine."

"Thank you... Doctor..."

Dr. Alexander placed his hand on Teddy's forearm, "You're welcome.  We'll
get you through this and out of here as fast as we can."

Edward stood and shook hands with Dr. Alexander, "Thank you, doctor.  We
appreciate everything you've done."

Dr. Alexander smiled at Edward, "Let me know if you need anything."  He
turned back to Ted, "I'll be back to check on you a little later." He then
headed for the door followed by the nurse.

After the doctor and nurse had left, Teddy smiled and then turned his head
to look at Edward, "I Love you."  A single tear fell from his eyes as he
looked at Edward.

Edward leaned over and kissed Teddy lightly on his lips, "I love you too
babe.  You really scared me."

"I'm sorry."  He started to cry, "I can't believe Viktor..."

Edward sat down on the edge of the bed and held Teddy's hand.  "Don't cry
babe.  He gave his life the way he wanted, protecting you."

"I need to see Vladimir."  Teddy was starting to calm down, and Edward was
wiping the tears from his boyfriend's face.

"I'll try to get him in here.  If they won't let him in it will have to
wait for you to be transferred to a room."

Teddy just nodded.  He was looking into Edward's eyes and just wanted to go
to sleep with Edward's arms around him.

"Babe, Mr. Wright was here earlier.  He and I had a lot to go over."
Edward looked to see what Teddy's reaction was going to be.

Ted just sat there without knowing what to say.  He looked into Edward's
eyes searching for what he was feeling, but there wasn't any of the
reactions he thought there would be.  "Sorry... I had wanted to talk to you
first.  I guess with me in here, he thought it was the right time."

"I agree, it was the right time."  Edward leaned over and kissed Teddy on
the lips, "I am not worthy of you, but I will try every day to be worthy of
your love."

Teddy's eyes moistened again, "I am the one that doesn't deserve you."  He
pulled Edward's hand to his mouth and kissed it.

It was then that the nurse came back into the room, "Captain Smythe, there
is a young man to see you in the waiting room."

Edward looked at Teddy, "That should be William.  I'll be back in a few
minutes.  Get some rest."

Teddy nodded his head, "I'll be here."

* * *

Walking into the waiting room, Edward was greeted by his younger brother
standing there looking at him.  William looked like a younger version of
Edward.  Their parents had joked that they were twins born ten years apart.

William almost ran up to Edward and wrapped him in a hug.  "I'm so sorry
Eddie."  William tightened his hug on his brother as he said it.  William
was the only person that dared to call Edward that.  It had started as
something to annoy his older brother with, but it quickly turned into his
private name for the person who was also his best friend.

"Will, it's good to see you."

"I hear there are some big changes in your life."  William released his
brother and smiled at him.

"You're not upset are you?"  This was Edward's biggest fear, disappointing
his brother.

"Oh, hell no.  How could I ever be upset with you over something like that?
I think it's great that you found someone who obviously loves you and you
love."

"Thanks Will.  I can't wait for you to meet Teddy."

"How's he doing?"  William moved them towards a couch so they could sit and
talk.

"He's awake finally.  The doctor said he's going to be fine."  Edward
paused, "I just can't believe that I almost lost him, all because of Mary."

William could see that Edward was dwelling on the worst that could have
happened.  "Hey, enough of that shit.  You didn't lose him, he's alive and
going to be just fine.  That's what you need to think about, stop thinking
about what could have happened."

Edward smiled, "Yes, sir."  He loved his brother and now he remembered why.
"How is school going?"

"School is great.  Thinking about making a visit to the barracks, I am
thinking about applying early to Sandhurst.  As for meeting Teddy, looks
like it will have to wait for him to get out of the ICU."  William smiled,
"Tell him I said he better be nice to my big brother or he'll have to deal
with me."

"I'll tell him, you don't have worry about that though.  He'd never do
anything to hurt me."

William wasn't entirely comfortable with the idea, but he wasn't going to
tell anyone his concerns.  It wasn't the whole homosexual aspect that
bothered him, it was that his brother was dating someone so much older.  He
wanted to meet the man that his brother said he loved.  Maybe once he met
Ted Jackson he would understand.  "Listen Eddie, I need to get home so I
can get my homework done.  I just wanted to come by and tell you I'm here
for you."

"I understand.  Thank you for coming bye, it means a lot to me."  He stood
up and hugged William, "I love you mate."

William smiled, "I love you too.  Take care of yourself."

* * *

Edward spent the night in the chair next to Teddy's bed.  It was a restless
night for both of them.  Early the next morning, Dr. Alexander had Teddy
moved into a private room.  This would allow for his family and friends to
come and see him.  He was still sleeping a great deal, but Dr. Alexander
had explained to Edward that this was normal.  The combination of his body
healing from the trauma and the painkillers were making him sleep so much.

Since Teddy arrived in his private room, he had basically slept the entire
time.  Edward hung around all morning and in the early afternoon he took
the opportunity to head home to shower and change clothes.  Vladimir sat
outside the room the entire time Edward was gone.  Several hours after
Edward left, Vladimir was surprised by Edward and a large group of people
approaching the room.

* * *

Teddy felt like sleeping some more, but he also knew he was thirsty again.
He wasn't allowed to eat solid food yet, but he wanted some more water.  As
he started to wake up, it felt like there was someone leaning against his
bed.  When he opened his eyes he was staring into two sets of little blue
eyes which were staring intently back at him.  He thought to himself, `This
has to be a dream.'

"Uncle Teddy!" Both boys practically yelled it at the same time.

His face instantly broke into a smile, this was a dream come true.  "Hey
boys...  How did you get here?"

Dylan leaned closer and tried to whisper. "Mister Edward sent Jake, Mark
and Devon to come and get us."

Teddy thought to himself, `Well, I'll be damned.'  There Edward went again
surprising him.

 Both boys were smiling wide.  Matthew looked like he was upset though, "It
was really cool, but we were worried about you so much."

Dylan leaned closer and tried to whisper, "I was really scared."

Teddy reached his hand up and ruffled both the boys' hair.  "I'm going to
be ok, especially now that you are here.  I love you both so much."  He
turned his head and noticed that John, Laura and Edward were all in the
room watching him.  John and Laura looked tired, but both were smiling.

John walked over and hugged Teddy gently, "You scared the shit out of us."
He then kissed Ted's cheek, "I love you."

"I love you too."  Teddy could feel his emotions about to cut loose.

Laura replaced John by the bed and kissed Teddy on the forehead before she
also gave him a hug, "You'd do anything to get us to come visit, wouldn't
you?"  She smiled and lightly hit him in the arm.

"Well, you know..."  He smiled back at Laura even as the tears were
starting, "How long can you guys stay?"

"A week or so, it was all we could arrange for."

"Well, I hope I'm out of here before you go."  He looked over to Edward and
held his hand out.

Edward quickly walked over and held Teddy's hand.  He sat on the bed next
to the boys and leaned over kissing Teddy.  "You ok, babe?"

"I am now.  I can't thank you enough for getting them here so quickly."  He
reached up and pulled Edward closer to him in a kiss.  When the released
each other Teddy felt like he was going to cough, "Babe, could you get me
some water?"

"Of course."  Edward stood and walked over to the pitcher of water next to
the bed and poured Teddy a glass.  He brought it back over and made sure
Teddy got a drink from it without spilling it on himself.  "Dr. Anderson
said they are going to try to get you up later and walk around."

"Oh... joy."  The pain in his back was telling him that any attempt to get
out of bed was going to be immensely painful.  However, if it would get him
home and into his own bed, he's just suck it up and do it.  "Where's Bess?"

"She had an appointment this afternoon with her counselor.  She and Devon
will be here as soon as it's over."

"I forgot that was today.  I've lost all track of time."

"Uncle Teddy, Elizabeth is really cool... for a girl."  Matthew said it and
a nodding Dylan agreed.

"I'm glad you like her.  She's pretty special."  Teddy smiled at the boys
and then looked up at Edward.  "Just like her daddy."

The family time was interrupted by a nurse and another man walking into the
room.  The man smiled as he noticed all the people in the room, "Hello, I'm
Jason, Mr. Jackson's physical therapist."  He walked over and shook Ted's
hand.  "Good to see you again, we're going to try and get you out of bed
and moving around.  Feel up to it?"

"Yeah."  He looked at his family, "Why don't you guys go and grab a bite to
eat or something?"

Edward knew that Teddy didn't want the boys to see him trying to move in
case it scared them.  "Why don't I run you guys back to the flat?"

John and La both quickly realized what was going on, "Yeah that sounds
good.  Come on boys."

They both climbed up to give Ted kisses before they followed their parents
out of the room.

Edward had hung back, "I'll be back once I get them settled.  Love you."

"I love you too."

As soon as Edward and the rest had left, Jason looked at Teddy.
"Mr. Jackson, can I say something that is completely inappropriate and
unprofessional?"  The smile on his face told Teddy just what was on his
mind.

"It's Ted, and of course you can Jason."

"Holy crap, I bet you're ready to go home.  I know I'd want to go home if I
had him waiting for me." Jason winked at Teddy, and they both laughed.

"I can see I'm really going to like you Jason."

* * *

Edward was driving, headed back for the flat when he looked over at John,
"Do you know if Teddy has ever been to Spain?"

"You know, I don't think he has been anywhere other than Madrid and
Barcelona."  John smiled, "Planning a trip?"

"Well, his birthday is in a couple weeks.  If he is up to it, I'd like to
take him someplace he hasn't been before.  I know he won't want to spend
much time on the beach.  But I found a hotel that has private patios where
we can enjoy the sun alone."

"Wow... it sounds perfect.  You really have gotten to know him, haven't
you?"

"I want to do something special for him.  He has done so much for me and
Bess."

Laura leaned forward from the back seat, "Sweetie, I can't tell you what
just being with you has already done for him.  I've seen a change in him
from the first day you guys met."

"Well, I can say the same thing about what he's done for me.  I feel like a
whole new man."  Edward looked at both of them again, "When we get to the
flat, I need to talk to you both about something."

* * *

Late that evening, Edward walked back into Teddy's hospital room alone.
Teddy was sitting up reading some paperwork, putting it down when he saw
Edward walk in.  Neither of them said anything, they just looked into each
other's eyes.

Finally Teddy patted the bed next to him.  Edward walked over and sat next
to him.  He reached out and wrapped Teddy in a proper hug, the first he had
been able to give him since he was hurt.  Edward whispered into Teddy's
ear, "I love you so much."

"I know babe."  Teddy looked into Edward's eye, "I was so scared that I was
going to die without..."

Edward didn't wait for Teddy to finish talking before he leaned over and
covered his lover's mouth with his own.  He could feel Teddy melt into his
chest as he kissed him.  When he released Teddy's lips from his own, Edward
leaned back and smiled.  "I've been waiting since yesterday for that."

"I know what you mean.  I want to come home."

"Well, Doctor Alexander says that he is going to try to get you out of here
this weekend.  That is if you can walk on your own."

"I want to go now.  I want to sleep in bed with you.  I don't like not
having your arms around me when I sleep."

"I know what you mean.  I think if you move over some, we can work this
out."

"You mean?"

Edward smiled, "Yes babe. Doctor Alexander said I could sleep here with
you.  I don't think he meant in bed with you, but..."

Teddy slid over quickly as Edward turned out the light and then climbed
into bed with him.  He wrapped his arm around Teddy, who had placed his
head on Edward's chest.  They didn't say anything, just quietly held each
other until they fell asleep.

* * *

I had planned on getting this released sooner than this, but work was a mad
house this week.  Thank you for all of the emails I have been receiving.
They all have provided great feedback and I hope you all continue to enjoy
the story.  Look, no cliffhanger this time!! -- T.