Path to Elysian

[zydrate]

Paige was lost in her own thoughts as she was admiring the pictures, she didn't hear Michael behind her and didn't jump when he placed his around around her. She felt a shiver through her when he kissed her neck...smiling, she just shrugged, "Of course not..." she hadn't realized that was the second time he said something like that--part of a criminal organization and now something about finding something against him... she pushed those thoughts aside. It was just remanents of his job, she was sure.

"Did you paint these?" She asked, as she noticed the signature on the corner of some pictures. His lips still hadn't left her neck and it was driving Paige crazy. She had wanted to pull away but at the same time, she didn't. She was torn at what to do. She tried to focus a little more on the pictures, she leaned against him...the shivers he was giving her hadn't yet stopped.

"By the way... who was at the door? I hope I didn't--" she wasn't able to finish as she just decided to enjoy the moment. It had been a long while since she had been with a guy...any guy that is. Well, Michael wasn't just any guy. He was kind and he knew how to cook... he definitely knew how to kiss. He protected her when she hadn't been on her best behavior....

 

[BeachBum25]

Michael moved his lips from Paige's neck and then he released her. He had hoped that his arms around her would serve a two-fold purpose; one that he would get to taste Paige's lips and kiss her passionately, and two.. that she would not ask about who was at the door. The reason he wanted to avoid number two was that it would require him to lie to Paige, and he really didn't want to do that.

Moving over to pick up his wine, Michael took the easy route, it was really only a partial lie. "It was an old friend of mine from the neighborhood. Paddy has fallen on hard times, and I help him out from time to time. I give him some money when he can't make his rent. Usually he calls when he needs it and we meet at a bar, and I buy him a drink before giving him some cash. Tonight he was desperate and needed it right away. He is lucky that I had some cash left over after buying all of these Cosmos."

He took a sip of his wine. "to answer your first question, yes I painted them. It is something I do in my free time. I find it to be very relaxing. I have done still lifes and nature scenes and paintings from pictures. Oh, and I did have one person model for me once. I don't have that painting, I gave it to the model."

Standing in front of Paige he watched her expression. He wasn't sure if she believed him or if she thought he was just joking with her. He decided that he would not say anymore about it. She could believe him or not. It might be the first real test of how they got along.

 

[zydrate]

Paige nodded at what Michael told her. She sighed hard and shook her head, "Crap..." she moved around him and walked back toward the couch and sat down, "I'm sorry. It's none of my business. It goes with the territory with me... I'm always nosy... I didn't mean to pry." She sighed a little softer and grabbed her glass and sipped her wine.

"So," she said, deciding to change the subject, "still, that's nice of you to do that. I'm sure he appreciates it. I think we all have a friend like that." Not that Paige did, but she just wanted to smooth things over. "At least he has a place to stay?" She said absentmindedly, reminding her of having to have to find a place in town soon.

She finished off the wine and stood to put the wine glass on the table, "I should get going." she said. The evening wasn't ruined, at least not to her. She hoped Michael didn't think that way.

 

[BeachBum25]

The atmosphere of the evening certainly changed after the knock at the door. Michael had no idea where it would have gone, but he was pretty sure that the energy of the evening had greatly decreased. He was pissed at Seamus for being so impatient. All he had to do was wait until the next morning and he would have had the information he wanted and needed, but, no, he had to send Paddy around.

Hearing Paige's comment about at least Paddy having a place to stay snapped him out of his thoughts about Seamus. "Well, it may not be close by, but your grandparents' cabin is a place to stay and it sounds like it is perfect. It is just a shame that it is so far from where you work. I am sure you will find a place close to work soon, but, in the mean time, enjoy the cabin and the area surrounding it."

He sipped his wine as he waited for a response from Paige. He had to admit that he wasn't surprised when she stood up and said she had to get going. "Paige, you have had a couple glasses of wine. I do not think you should be driving. You are welcome to stay here. The sheets on the bed are clean. I will just sleep out here on the sofa."

He paused for a moment to let her think. "If that doesn't work for you, at least let me get you an Uber. I want to make sure that you don't catch a DUI on your ride to the cabin. The State Police are always on the lookout, especially at this time of night."

Michael stood up and waited for Paige's decision. There were only two choices because her driving was off limits. Many people think that they are okay with a couple glasses of wine. The truth is that they are not. Paige had a lot to lose. In addition to possibly hurting herself or someone else while driving impaired, she could lose her license to practice medicine, and thus, her career if she was caught driving under the influence.

 

[zydrate]

This was not how she had wanted the night to end… on a disastrous note. Despite it all, she gave him a smile when he said she’d find a place soon. Yes, she knew she would also, but she also missed her own place prior to all these crazy events of the past few weeks.

When he mentioned the wine she had, she almost said something back to him about counting her drinks. But then, as he finished, he was right. She had a couple and even though she was sure she’d be alright; she knew it probably best to not chance it.

“The State Police?” She repeated and laughed, “Ohhh…inside information.” With another big sigh, “Don’t spend your money on an Uber… it’s too far. But OK... I won’t drive…” she moved back around to the couch and away from the door, “I could call my mother but if she finds out I had a date tonight, she’ll have a literal cow about why I didn’t tell her sooner… and my father?” She just shook her head as she took a seat, “Please don’t think I’m not grateful for the offer for a car service but seriously, my place is just too far for that.”

She propped her head in her hand as she leaned back against the couch, watching Michael sit on the other chair, “You know what I think about you Michael?”

 

[BeachBum25]

He watched Paige stress out about how she was going to get home. "Paige, relax. I just don't want you to get into trouble. You have a lot to lose if you would catch a DUI. I would hate to have our first date end up with me having to bail you out of jail." He smiled and laughed a little; hoping to get her to relax.

"You do not need to call mom or dad. You are a big girl and can deal with this without them knowing. I won't tell your mom we were on a date without you telling her. Of course, I won't say anything at all to your dad."

Pausing to see if he could even get a small smile from her. "I told you that you can sleep in my bed. I have a t-shirt you can wear. Then, you can get up in the morning and drive out to the cabin and nobody will ever know. It will be our little secret."

Michael watched Paige put her head in her hands as he sat across from her. "Paige, I am going to be honest with you, I really don't know what you think about me. Every time I think I have a read on what you think of me, you throw me a curveball. For a while I thought you were interested in me, just as I have been in you. Then, you lump me in with a couple of bad cops and I think, hell I read her wrong. Then, I think you might be interested in me and the next thing I know you are questioning me about having something to do with Thompson's death. Now, you are here with me on a date. So, no Paige, I don't know what you think about me, however, I am willing to listen to what you have to say about me."

 

[zydrate]

"Wow..." Paige said, when Michael finished. She just laughed an empty laugh and shook her head, "You're not the first to imply that I'm difficult or to say I throw curveballs..." she sighed and stood up, "I think it's best I go ahead and get my own car service."

Grabbing her coat and purse, she whipped around to face Michael, "You know, I never lumped you in with any bad cops, nor did I imply that you were mixed with dirty cops. As for Thompson, you can't say it isn't wrong of me to ask if you had anything to do with it because you said you would take care of it and then what happens? He ends up dying. So yes, I was suspicious and yes, I asked you if you had anything to do with it. But you said you didn't and I believe you. I..."

She had wanted to say more but decided not to. Instead, Paige just stopped short of the door, "Thank you for the nice evening up to...well, this." With that, she walked out and closed the door behind her. Walking to the elevator, she put her purse down and put on her coat as she grabbed her phone to call for a ride back to her parents. She'd spend the night there for tonight and then get her car tomorrow.

Paige knew she had drinks and knew that she shouldn't drive so as she waited in the cold, she ran through everything that happened tonight. What the hell happened? They were having a nice night. And then he brought up the shit with Thompson and well... Yes, Paige knew she was a mess when that was happening with Thompson but who wouldn't be? She never had anything like that happen or have anyone as mean and vindictive as Thompson go after her. Every interaction with Michael after that had been when she was trying to be tough and yes, it came off as being cold but there was no one way to act or express one's self.

"Goddamnit." She muttered...

**********************************
Sitting in the small bar, Paige was sipping on another drink as she went over everything tonight. It wasn't doing her any good but still, what else could she think of? She had her destination for the car service to take her to her parents but had changed it at the last minute to take her to Baily's, a small speakeasy where her father liked to go from time to time.

What a night. Yes, she did like Michael. What it because he was there when she needed him? Was it because of Thompson?

She couldn't think clearly so she cleared her mind as she sipped on a brandy. She wasn't wanted to get drunk tonight. That wasn't her style. No, she'd finish up and then go to her parents for now.

 

[BeachBum25]

"I never said you were difficult Paige; don't put words in my mouth. I am just looking for a little confirmation about what might be happening between us. I am not going to go any further into the fact that you lumped me in with "other cops" when you talked about us all being alike, and to think that I had any involvement in what happened to Thompson..... well, never mind."

He watched her leave. "Well, that went real well." Michael walked into the kitchen and grabbed a beer out of the refrigerator. He opened it then walked out onto the balcony. The freezing cold air felt good. It actually helped cool him off, since he was so upset about what Paige had said and done.

"I should have known it wouldn't work. Once, she had asked him about whether he had anything to do with Thompson's death, Michael should have known how she really felt about him. Just the fact that she even asked showed that she didn't trust him.

Suddenly, the burner phone that Paddy had given him started to ring. He knew it was going to be Seamus, and he knew Seamus wanted information. Michael let it ring a couple of times, before connecting.

"Hello. Yes Seamus, obviously I have the phone from Paddy. No, I am not being a wiseass, but I am pretty sure you knew I had it when I answered, so, I am not sure why you asked." Michael wasn't in the mood for silly games with Seamus.. or anyone for that matter.

"Yes, I have information that will be helpful to you, but I wasn't going to give it to Paddy. The last thing you need is for him to have information that he could at some time come back at you with. Is your phone safe?" Yes, he knew the question was a ridiculous one, but two could play that game.

"The Chief has a side piece. He meets up with her a couple afternoons a week, and whenever his wife goes out. He has a condo in the Southie Condos. The side piece is living in it. Pretty sure the wife thinks she is just a renter. I am pretty sure that info should get you the money you are owed and probably a whole lot more, because, not only would he lose his wife and a shitload of money, he would lose his career if that information got out."

Michael listened as Seamus told him they were now even. Michael did not believe him. he knew Seamus would come calling again. Seamus also told him that he got him better information than his own guys. Michael laughed. "Maybe, I should come work for you then. This PD gig isn't the greatest." Seamus responded, "you should" then disconnected the call.

Taking the battery out of the phone and breaking it into pieces, Michael went back inside. he sat down on his sofa and thought of Paige again.... figuring that would be the last he would see or hear from her. He had hoped for more, but....

 

[zydrate]

***2 months later***

Paige pulled up to her parents house and sighed deeply. It was near lunch time and she was just getting off for the night after working 3 straight 12 hour days. She just wanted to go home and have a good sleep but no, her father had called her and asked she come over when she got off of work as he had something important to tell her. Knowing she'd never hear the end of it, Paige just found it easier to go and see what was going on.

Entering the house, Paige looked around and saw the living room was decorated with streamers and Mayoral Candidate and she stopped in her tracks, "Shit.." she said, knowing this was coming for a while. Her father always talked about it and never really did anything about it but now, she guessed he really was going to do it. Seriously? He couldn't tell her over the phone?

It was then her mother was coming down the stairs and called to her daughter, "You made it! Just in time..." she got to the bottom of the stairs and Paige met her as her mother gave her a hug, "I'm glad you're here, you still have time to change."

"Change...? Why?"

"Because your father invited the press here so he can make his announcement."

"Mother.. I just finished work and I would like to go back to my place to sleep. It's been hell these past few months and I just really like to get some rest befor-"

Her mother turned on a dime and did something Paige had never seen or heard her do and that was raise her voice at her daughter, "You will stand by this family for once in your life Paige! You owe it to your father after all he's done for you!"

"What is going on out here!" Her father yelled, his booming voice overtaking mother and daughter arguing.

Soon, everyone was yelling but Paige wanted to have the last say in this, "I am not a child anymore and you both have got to stop treating me like one. If you wanted me here, all you had to do was to ask me. But no, you fall to tricks like this, I--" she stopped and sighed, "I'm done. I had the shittiest day at work so far and I'm tired, OK? I'll be here for your announcement and yes, I'll act like the loving daughter...I wouldn't want the city to get the wrong impression of it's future mayor."

****

About 2 hours later, downstairs was a madhouse as the limited press that was invited had shown up as well as other important officials, all friends of her father's. Even though she didn't want to be there, she did her best to put on a smile and talk with some of the other women while there. This was about as old fashion as one could get.... leave the politics to the men. A life she swore she'd never be a part of and it bugged her father that he couldn't sway his daughter to join him in his career. No, she was never interested in it. Never would be either.

"You could at least smile more." Her mother said as she came up to Paige and straightened the sleeves of her dress to which Paige shrugged her away, "I'm afraid if I smile any harder, my face will fall off."

Her mother was going to say something but she saw someone else had arrived. It was the police chief and his wife. Paige watched them as they greeted her mother and she had pointed out where Paige's father was, getting ready for his speech. Someone called out that they would be starting in 5 minutes and to please have a seat.

Thinking she was going to sit down out of the way of the cameras, her mother guided her toward the front of the room and ushed her to stand beside her. "Wait, why am I up here?"

Her father turned from his spot and looked at her, "I want to show that my family supports me, all right? So, just... behave."

Perfect... she thought as the one of the news stations called out they were going on air in 20 seconds. As much as she wanted to not be here, there was no turning back now.

 

[BeachBum25]

Michael dove hard into his work after the awful way the date with Paige had ended. He would like to say that he didn't think much about Paige, but that would not be truthful. He did think about her at times... often wishing things had gone better between them.

He hated his work. Working in Internal Affairs was boring to him. Yes, it offered him an opportunity to make sure that police officers were doing the right thing and not abusing their power, but it also meant that he had to investigate some petty complaints that were really just people upset that they had been given a ticket or had been arrested. He realized that most of the people on the force were honest, hard-workers that truly were doing the job for the good of the community as a whole, Unfortunately, there were those few that gave all of them a bad name.

Michael also did not hear from Seamus for a while, and that was quite alright. He had no idea whether Seamus had collected the debt that the Chief owed, and, frankly, he didn't care. He just wanted to put that who situation behind him and move on. However, there was always that thought in the back of his mind that Seamus would come calling for something.

When he was called into the Captain's office one morning, Michael didn't think anything of it. It wasn't out of the ordinary for the Captain to call him in for updates on investigations that were ongoing. However, that wasn't what this meeting was about. The Captain told him he was being transferred. "This is by special request of the Chief. It is an election year, and the top candidates get a protection detail. You are going to be in charge of one of the details."

The Captain handed Michael a piece of paper. "Be at that address tomorrow morning. The Chief will be there, also. He will introduce you to the Mayoral Candidate, and to the other officers on the detail."

Michael was stunned. How did the Chief know about him? Why would he request him for such a detail? As he walked out of the Captain's office, he said to himself, "Fuck.... Seamus had something to do with this."

The next morning he arrived at the address early. There were several news trucks parked outside. Michael moved around and was able to figure out that there was going to be an announcement of a candidate running for office. HE knew that the person running was named Jackson, but did not realize that the announcement was today. He stood around for a while and greeted the Chief when he arrived. The Chief said he would introduce him to Jackson after the announcement. Michael nodded and stayed in the back of the room.

When he looked to the front of the room as the announcement began, he could not believe his eyes. "Paige?" he said to himself.

 

[zydrate]

Paige did her best to listen to those who spoke before her father about what a wonderful and caring man he was... how he was going to be a great mayor. It was really boring really, but she kept her facial expressions neutral as she feigned interest in what her father was saying. Paige had wanted to roll her eyes at some of the things her father had said. He was good... he definitely could work a crowd.

She started to get bored and her mother had noticed as she leaned toward her daughter, "Pay attention." As much as she wanted to say something or make a face at her, Paige knew better. Folding her hands in front of her, she stole a few glances at the crowd. It was sort of hard due to the lights from the cameras but she could make out a few people. A good percentage were her father's friends and acquaintances, of course, she remembered a few and some were knew. During her last glance around the room, she saw him...

Michael... she thought to herself. The two made brief eye contact. What was he doing here?

Paige didn't have time to think about it as the room exploded in applause... so it was done. Her father was running for Mayor of Boston. May the circus begin.

People came up to congratulate her father and of course, her mother. Some even came up to Paige and congratulated her on her father's campaign and she just smiled and thanked them. Perhaps now she could leave and get home to get some rest as she was beyond exhausted.

"You father needs to talk to both of us for a brief moment," her mother said as she took her daughter by the elbow and lead her to her father's private library. In there, the police chief and her father talked and as her and her mother entered, someone closed the door behind them. Paige didn't think anything about it as she greeted the Chief who gave Paige a small smile and she just nodded at him as her father spoke, "I'll cut to the chase, as a candidate for Mayor, the city is going to supply me with a security detail, and I-"

Paige's mother gasped, "Why? This isn't a dangerous job, is it?"

Figuring it was just something that was part of the plan, her father started to explain how it was standard practice as all the other candidates, should there be any, will have the same sort of security put in place.

"Yes, it just part of the norm Sharon," the chief told her mother, "Nothing to worry about as I will have very highly trusted officer in charge of the detail," he then nodded to the person behind them whom Paige hadn't noticed before as he had not said a word.. Michael.

Sighing, Paige just shook her head... as much as she had wanted to forget about him these past few months, she couldn't. She had gone over time and time again how she screwed up their first and probably only date. "Is this really necessary?" Paige asked as she turned from Michael back to her father, "I mean, surely you could just get a private security firm for this Father and besides, what dangers are there with this run for mayor?"

 

[BeachBum25]

Michael stood in the back an listened to the people talk about the candidate and how wonderful he was. This was definitely in contrast to what he had heard about Mr. Thompson from his daughter. Paige didn't say much about her father, but what she did say wasn't positive.

It was obvious to Michael that Paige was standing up there against her will. Despite not looking happy to be there, Michael had to admit that she looked amazing. He had been having a hard enough time forgetting about Paige; now this detail was going to make it impossible. There was no doubt in his mind that her parents were going to insist that she make appearances with dear old dad.

It was obvious that despite her age that Paige was unable to say no to her parents. Why else would she be standing up front with him. looking miserable, and trying to put a smile on her face?

As the speech was ending, the Chief caught Michael's eye and motioned him forward. "We are going to meet with the candidate in his library. I expect there will be no problems with this detail. You come highly recommended." The Chief's look confirmed what Michael already knew. "I have assigned 3 good men to work it with you. You set up the protection however you want. Remember, no problems."

In the library, Michael listened as Mrs. Thompson voiced some concern about safety and asked if it was dangerous. Then, he smiled when Paige asked her father about paying for private security. Obviously, she wasn't interested in Michael being around.

Stepping forward, Michael addressed the family. "Mr. and Mrs. Thompson, hello, my name is Sergeant Michael O'Flynn. I guarantee that the protective detail is only a formality, and, Ms. Thompson (Michael avoided using Doctor since he didn't want anyone to know that the two had been acquainted), I am fairly certain that there is no reason to be afraid. The men on the detail and I will be in plain clothes at all times and we will do nothing to draw attention to the candidate. There will be someone in close proximity to the candidate at all times, but we will not smother you Mr. Thompson."

Michael looked from Mr. Thompson, to Mrs. Thompson, to Paige. Then he took out cards and handed one to each of them. "My cell phone number is on the back. If I am not present, I am always on duty and available to take your call. Please do not hesitate to reach out to me if you have any questions, or concerns. " He made eye contact with Paige again, and smiled.

Once he was finished, Michael stepped back and let the Chief finish the briefing before the candidate went back out to start meeting personally with those who were present. Michael moved with him, but kept enough distance not to be obvious.

 

[zydrate]

Despite the whole meeting in the library, Paige returned Michael's smile, albeit briefly as her mother pulled her away to meet some other people and 'mingle'. It was time to play nice for a little while longer…

As it started to settle down, Paige knew she’d be able to leave soon, which was good, the more tired she got, the crankier she had gotten. Of course, she hid it well. Getting a bottle of water from the catering table, she opened it and took a small sip just as she was about to go and get her stuff so she could get out of here. As she turned, she almost ran smack into a man. “I’m sorry…” she said and stepped around him, but he met her sidestep, “Ms. Jackson, or should I say Doctor Jackson, I’m James Conner with the Boston Star, I was wondering if you had a minute to talk about your father and get your reactions and thoughts on all this?”

Paige gave him a tired smile, “No thank you Mr. Conner, I really don’t know why you’d want to hear from me so, please, excuse me.” She took another sidestep and again, he blocked her before pulling out a card.. great, another card, “Here’s my card, if you should change your mind, I would love to get an exclusive.” With that, he made his way to another official from the city.

Was this how it was going to be until election day? She hoped not. This was her father’s doing, not hers, why didn’t they go bother him more. She saw her father talking with another someone, at this point, she was too tired to notice people’s names or their importance. Walking up to her father, she butted in between his and another man’s conversation, “May I have a word?” She said, keeping her voice quiet but firm.

Her father seemed a bit irritated, but she didn’t care at this moment, “I don’t appreciate you springing this on me! How long have you been thinking about doing this?”

“For months now Paige. You would probably know that if you came around more often. Perhaps called every now and then. Besides, this wasn’t exactly a secret, you’ve known about my interest in it for years.”

“Yes well, I didn’t think you’d just go and do it and not give me any warning about why I was asked here today. But you what, dad? I should be used to this by now. Good luck with your campaign but please, don’t ask me anything on the spur of the moment. I have a life too.”

“And what life is that Paige? Working all the time? Neglecting your family? I will need you here more often now—”

“No,” her tone was hushed but she was mad, “No more after this, OK?”

With that she turned and went to the kitchen to get her keys and her bag, she needed to get home and get some rest. As she grabbed her bag and turned, she was met face to face with the reporter again and she almost screamed because he appeared out of nowhere it seemed, “How about dinner tonight? We could talk a little more about all this?”

Paige just shook her head, “You don’t seem to get the hint… listen mister...” she had already forgotten his name, “Listen, I need to get going. Perhaps something can be arranged later on in the campaign, OK?”

“And why not tonight?”

With that Paige just walked around him, “Goodbye.” But she could feel him following her as she walked to her car as he kept talking, “Listen, just 10 minutes, OK. Ten minutes isn’t that long.” She opened her door and he placed his hand back on the frame, keeping it closed, “Come on Dr. Jackson, I would really love to talk to you about all this.”

 

[BeachBum25]

Michael stood back and just observed. He wanted to get an idea of who the people were and how the Candidate interacted with people. He watched how the Thompsons interacted with one another, and how Paige made it very obvious that she had no desire to have any part in her father's campaign or the hoopla that went along with it.

At one point, Michael saw Paige talking with a guy, or rather trying to avoid talking with him. Watching her leave that guy and approach her father, Michael saw the two of them having a somewhat heated conversation. Michael figured that Paige was trying to escape the show and her father was not happy about it.

Paige left her father and moved to the kitchen. Michael saw the man she had been talking to earlier follow her into the kitchen. "You have to give him credit for his persistence, I guess," Michael thought to himself.

When Michael saw Paige walk out with the guy following her closely, he decided to follow at a distance to make sure things were okay. He told himself he would do this for anyone he was responsible for protecting, but the truth was he was being a little more protective of Paige.

Seeing the guy follow her all the way to her car, and then place his hand on the door to keep her from being able to open it, Michael just shook his head and made his way in their direction. Moving beside the guy, Michael grabbed his wrist and moved the guy's hand off the car. "You go ahead Ms. Thompson. I will have a conversation with the gentleman about his inappropriate behavior.

Moving the man away from the car, Michael allowed Paige to get into the car. As the man started to protest, Michael just smiled at him. "You need to understand that when someone say no, they mean no. Forcing yourself on them is probably not in your best interest, especially when everything is being recorded by cameras. Now, you can leave the premises quietly, or I can have you removed forcefully. The choice is completely yours."

The guy said he would go, and Michael asked him where his car was. Escorting him to his car, Michael made sure the man drove away. After seeing him leave, Michael went back inside the house. At no time during his interaction with the man did Michael identify himself as a police officer. As far as the man knew, he was private security hired by Mr. Thompson.

As the last of the people left at the end of the event, Michael spoke with Mr. Thompson for a minute. "There will be an officer outside your house as long as you are here. One of us will accompany you on any official campaign events, however, we will not infringe on your personal time and space. If we could meet tomorrow to go over your schedule, that would be great."

Michael left and headed home; wishing that he still had the burner phone to call Seamus and "thank" him for the detail he got him on. This was not going to be a fun couple of months.

 

[zydrate]

When she got back to her place, Paige let out a sigh of relief as she tossed her bag on the floor and went to the kitchen to grab a soda. She was exhausted but really, she was too hyped at the same time and knew she wasn’t going to get any sleep.

So much was going on in her mind that she could feel a headache coming on. Taking her drink in to the living room, she flopped onto the sofa and leaned her head back, closing her eyes as she thought about all that happened in the short amount of time since getting off work. Yes, she could handle a busy ER and patients screaming at her or angry parents demanding she make things better for their child but here she was, unable to handle her family. Not that she wanted them handled, she just wanted to be let in if they were going to put her in this sort of situation.

She took a sip of her drink and then set the can on the table as her phone buzzed, indicating a text message from someone…. Groaning, Paige grabbed her purse and took her phone out and looked at the message. It was from a coworker congratulating her on her father’s campaign. She thanked them and was about to set the phone down when a thought occurred to her. She brought up Michael’s number and sent him a text, thanking him for what he did and getting that reporter out of her way.

That was the first time since that disastrous end of the date she had talked to him. Thinking about that made her wonder how he got the detail job for her father. Was that something he had set up? If he knew about it, then why didn’t he tell her?

“Stop it Paige, you’re putting too much thought into this…” she thought to herself as she got up, tossed her phone on the couch, and headed to her room. She needed a shower and a goodnight’s sleep. She just wanted to forget today, that was for sure.

**************************
It had been 2 days since the announcement of her father’s campaign for Mayor, but Paige kept herself busy and before she knew it, she was back at work.

Tonight, she was in a good mood. She hadn’t heard from her parents while she was off which was good. They would hopefully leave her alone for the time being. The evening was going smoothly as patients came and went. Nothing major so far, a few minor incidents and what one would call simple treatments. Blood tests were ordered, X-Rays and CTs… nothing too serious.

By 2AM, things had slowed down a lot and even with the lull, the triage rooms were occupied with patients waiting for test results or some such. Mary, handed Paige an iPad, “Bed 4 needs a couple of stitches, says he got into a brawl… looks like he’s the winner and we’re not sure where the loser is at.” Mary finished cryptically.

Not knowing whether to laugh or not, Paige just took the pad and looked at the vitals. She pulled the curtain back, “Hi, I’m Dr. Jackson. What’s going on… Mister…” she stopped and looked at the name again, “Seamus…? No last name?”

He had said no, it wasn’t needed. “OK, well, what happened tonight?” she asked as she examined his face which had a few bruises and small cuts. He had one gash on the right side of his face, “Looks pretty deep…” she stepped back and noted his chart, “Any other cuts or injuries that we need to know about? Any pain?”

The examine finished up and Paige was finished treating this Seamus guy. He hadn’t offered any other information, only answering what he was asked. Usually, patients liked to let the doctor know everything that was bothering them. Hell, this Seamus guy didn’t even flinch when Mary cleaned up the gash on the side of his face. He had refused any numbing shot before Paige was able to stitch him up. When she was done, she looked at the man before her, “Well, since you’re refusing any pain meds, I would suggest some OTC pain meds if you feel you need it, keep the wound clean and if you’re up to, come see me in a week and we can remove the stitches, sound good?”

He had said yes and just looked at Paige before walking out to his friends waiting in the lobby. Paige and Mary just chalked it up to another night, another patient. On to the next one.

 

[BeachBum25]

After finishing up at Mr. Jackson's campaign announcement, Michael spoke to the one detective who was going to be staying on. "I know it is going to be boring, but you have to make sure there are no issues. Keep the press and anyone else away from the house. The Jacksons are not expecting any visitors, so, if anyone shows up saying they are visiting, clear it with them before allowing them to the door."

As he got into his car, Michael received the text from Paige. He just shook his head and typed his response, "Just doing my job." Before he hit send, he reconsidered the response. It sounded a little snarky, and Paige would not be happy with it. Not that it really mattered. After all, what were the chances for them? He didn't think Paige wanted anything to do with him.

He deleted the message, and, instead, typed in, "You're welcome." There could be no other way of taking that response. It was a neutral response that sent no underlying message. After hitting send, Michael put the car in drive and headed home; not expecting to get any response from Paige.

************

A week later, as he entered his condo after a long day following Jackson on his campaign stops, Michael felt his phone vibrating in his pocket. The call was from a number that was not in his contacts. Normally he would just let the call go to voicemail, but since he was working the Thompson detail, he wanted to make sure it had nothing to do with him.

When he picked it up, he wished he hadn't answered it. "What are you calling me on this number for Seamus?" Michael listened as Seamus told him he should be nicer to the person who was responsible for him having such an easy job. "Easy job? My job in IAD was just fine. I didn't need my name coming out of your mouth to the Chief. Now, I am on his radar. He knows I know you. That isn't going to make things easier for me going forward."

Seamus reminded Michael that now that he had dirt on the Chief, he would protect Michael. "Of course, you could always come work for me. I could use someone with your smarts and you knowledge of the innerworkings of the police department, and I can pay you a whole lot more than you make working for the PD."

Michael chuckled. "Yes, but then I am on the wrong side of the law, and if I get caught the people in the jails are not real fond of former police officers." Seamus laughed at him. "Then we will have to make sure you don't get caught."

Thanking Seamus for the offer, Michael disconnected the call. "I should never have gone to him in the first place about the Thompson issue. HE will never forget about it despite me repaying the debt."

*************
2 months later.

When his cell phone rang in the middle of the night, Michael didn't think about looking at the Caller ID, he simply picked it up and answered it, "O'Flynn." Again, he wished he hadn't done that. He heard Seamus. "Hey buddy, I am probably going to need your help. Me and the boys got in a little skirmish wish some fellas tonight, and one or more of them may be in serious condition. Normally, these things fly under the radar, but, I am afraid at least one of them might not make it."

Michael shook his head. "What the fuck," he said to himself. "Seamus, you have been in a lot of skirmishes before, and ones where other people got messed up. I am pretty sure that in a couple of those brawls there were people who didn't make it. What makes this one different that you have to call me?"

"Well Mick," he used a nickname Michael hadn't been called since he was a kid, "you see, I got a little banged up in this one, and needed to get sewed up. Now, I had the boys take me to a different hospital then the others would be taken to. I went to Mass Gen where I had this hot little doc stitch me up. I didn't give them my last name, but I am sure they have me on camera, and I fucked up and gave them my real first name. I may need you to cover for me if any of this comes back on me."

"Seamus, what the fuck do you think I can do for you? I cannot do anything if you have charges filed against you." Seamus just said, "I am going to need you," and hung up the phone. "What the fuck am I going to do now."

 

[zydrate]

What am I even doing here. Paige thought to herself as she pulled up to the valet and someone opened her door for her, handing her a ticket as she got out. At least her father had asked her himself if she could come to a luncheon in his honor. A small fundraising campaign that was sure to bring in more funds for his campaign.

On your first weekend off in a long time... she thought as she walked into the country club and to banquet room two. She didn't need directions as she had been here many times as a child and teen. That all changed as she moved out of her parents home and started college. It was a welcome reprieve from having to deal with the going ons at home.

Paige had done as much avoidance of her family as she could but knew she couldn't stay away forever. The room was already packed as she made her way up to her mother, who had been talking to a group of women about something or other. If Paige could say one good thing about this whole fiasco, it did seem to be making her mother happy to have something to do in her husband's future.

"Paige, you look wonderful," her mother said as she grabbed a drink from a passing waiter and handed it to Paige.

She knew it would do no good to refuse it so instead, she just took it and smiled and looked down at her dress, a baby pink dress that fit loosely but comfortably to her, "Thank you..." she looked around at the room, "Seems like he has half the city here."

At that moment, as she was scanning the room, her eyes locked with Michael's and she gave him a small smile before being dragged off by her mother. "There's a reporter here that would like to have a word with you Paige, I told him you'd love to talk to him." Paige started to protest but her mother just gave her arm a hard squeeze, "Just do this, please? It could help your father get more publicity."

That's when they walked up to the reporter who had been at the house when her father made his announcement for running for Mayor. "James, this is my daughter Paige and she'd be happy to talk to you."

"Yes, we've met, hello again Paige," he said, holding out his hand.

Paige looked down at it and it must have been more than a few seconds when she heard her mother whisper in her ear, "Don't cause a scene, please?"

Forcing a smile, Paige took his hand and shook it, "Mr. Conner, yes, we've met."

"Wonderful!" Paige's mother exclaimed, "Why don't you two talk for a bit as the luncheon is still 20 minutes away." With that, she walked back to a group of people, instantly making herself part of the conversation.

"How about we go outside and talk? It's a little less hectic."

"Sure." Just get this over with please, she thought herself and followed him to the outside patio.

"So, I did want to say I'm sorry for us getting off on the wrong foot. I am trying to not seem so pushy. It's just, this is my first major story and I want to get it right."

"All right," she said. For some reason, she didn't believe him. He was far from pushy, he was a pain. He thought she didn't know about his persistent calling to the hospital, asking when she'd be on duty (of course, no one would dare give out that information) or when she was on duty, was she able to talk. "Well, we're here, so what is it you want to know?"

"Well," he shrugged, "I guess I want to know about you and your family. From what I've heard, you're a respected Doctor at Mass General. Hell, you even went to Harvard and graduated with honors, but from what I hear, your parents didn't even attend your graduation, yet here you are, supporting your father's campaign. Sounds like you and your parents don't get along all that great."

Paige sighed, "My parents and I get along just fine Mr. Conner. If you wanted dirt, you're digging up the wrong person's grave. I have nothing to tell you that you don't already know."

With that, she turned and started to walk to the door when she heard him, "What about Thompson wanting you to change his cop buddy's medical records? Or the fact that Thompson is now dead... some freak accident and him being killed in a fire? Kind of odd that his place catches fire after you lose your place in almost the same manner... listen, please, if you have time to talk later, I can tell you where I got my information. Please?"

Stopping, Paige turned to face him, once more, "No thank you Mr. Conner. It sounds like you're in over your head and you're just barely able to stay afloat. I have no further comment." With that, she went back inside and joined her mother. Her heart was pounding from either anger or rage.. perhaps a little of both. It took her a minute to get her bearings as the luncheon continued on.

By the time the fundraiser was over, Paige's head was pounding. All she wanted to do was go home and rest. But of course, just as she was able to break free from her mother's grasp, her phone sounded.

Her boss. Even though she was off for the next 2 nights, she still had to answer his calls in case she had to fill in for someone. She answered and listened to him as he told her that there was someone from the police department there, wanting to talk to her about a patient she had once treated.

Of course, she couldn't say no. Not when it came to a patient. Although she had wanted to say no, she agreed and said she'd be there as soon as she could.

The place was crowded and it was taking forever for the valet to get everyone their vehicles, Paige didn't complain, instead, she just waited as the skies opened up suddenly, drenching the city in rain.

 

[BeachBum25]

Michael decided that he needed to meet this situation head-on. He was going to go find Seamus first thing in the morning and set him straight on what he could and could not do to help him out.

Walking into Finnegan's Wake the next morning, Michael nodded to the bartender and sat down and asked for an Irish Coffee. When the drink was delivered, he placed a 50 on the bar and told the bartender that he was there to see Seamus. The bartender did what he was supposed to do and denied knowing anyone named Seamus. Michael smiled at him. "Tell him O'Flynn is here to see him."

The bartender disappeared, and less than a minute later returned and led Michael to see Seamus. Once the bartender left the room, Michael looked at Seamus and shook his head. "And you were the winner? I guess that is why you are looking for help if you look like that and you won."

Seamus started to explain that a guy that owed him money brought a few friends with him when Seamus went to collect on the debt. "They are lucky I didn't just shoot them and kill them Mick." Michael looked at Seamus. "Yea, they sure are, and so are you, because if you think you have some issues now, a couple of murder charges would have been a little bit worse."

"Listen Seamus, there is nothing I can really do for you if there are charges filed. I am just a pawn in this big department. The only thing I can really do is see if I can head off any charges being brought to the prosecutor. Where did this happen? How bad do you think the other guys were? There is no chance they are going to die, is there?"

Listening to Seamus tell him where it happened, and that the other guys were beat up pretty good, but shouldn't need to spend any time in the hospital, other than a trip to the Emergency Room, Michael started wondering what he could/ should do. Did he really want to get involved in all of this? Not really.

"Seamus, listen to me. You cannot mention my name to anybody when it comes to this. My name coming out of your mouth to the Chief was not a good idea. Yea, it got me a fairly easy detail, but it also is a high profile detail that I really am not interested in. It also allows the Chief to make a connection with the guy he owes money to and me. Not a position I want to be in as a Police Detective."

Michael headed to the precinct where the incident with Seamus had taken place. He decided he would do some snooping around and see who was investigating the incident, if anyone. As he was walking into the precinct, he stopped dead in his tracks as Paige was walking out. "Hello Dr. Jackson. What brings you to the police department that you are not a big fan of?"

 

[zydrate]

"Do I need a lawyer?" Paige asked as she was brought into an interrogation room. Ahh, yes, she was familiar with this tactic. She didn’t even show any hesitation as the lady… or detective sat across from her. “You needed to speak to me, but I feel you want something more?”

The detective smiled and shook her head, “No, not at all, you’re not under arrest, we just have a few questions, that’s all.” With that, the woman pulled out a picture of the guy and pointed to it, tapping at the photo, “This man came into the Mass Gen ED a couple of nights ago and you treated him.”

Paige was about to say something when the detective stopped her, “I’m not asking anything about his treatment, I just wanted to know if you remember this man.”

“Yes, obviously he was at the hospital since you have the security footage to prove it. But why am I here? Why are we talking if you have photo evidence he was there?”

“Did he say anything to you? Perhaps why he was there?”

“No. He didn’t talk at all. It was like working on a statue. I asked what happened and he didn’t answer. I treated him and released him. Why?”

“Have you had any other contact with him?”

Contact with him? Now, Paige was getting flustered, “No. Never. He was there, I treated him and then he was gone.”

“Are you sure he didn’t tell you anything else?”

“Listen, if you’re going to ask me the same questions twice, then you’re wasting your time. I answered your questions now, if you don’t have anything more, I must get going.” She pulled out her card and gave it to the detective, “I’m pretty sure that’s all I have to tell you but if you want to ask me the same questions in a different way, there’s my number.”

****
As she made her way out of the station and stepping outside, Paige was immediately greeted by Michael. She was going to offer him a greeting when he asked her what brought her there… only in his own smartass way. “Oh, you know, just being asked the same questions twice...” She moved out of his way as she quickly descended the steps and to the sidewalk, heading to her car.

She heard her name being called but she ignored it, getting several looks from those close by. Turning around, she looked up at Michael, “Shouldn’t you be out protecting my father from pretend threats or something?”

 

[BeachBum25]

It was quite obvious by her reaction that Paige had taken Michael's greeting as him being a smartass. Although Michael definitely had the ability to be a smartass, his greeting to Paige was not intended to be that way. However, people's perception was their reality, so, to Paige, Michael was being a smartass.

He heard her say that she was answering the same questions twice, and it suddenly dawned on him that Paige was the doctor that sewed Seamus up. He remembered Seamus saying that it was a hot, little doctor at Mass Gen that took care of him. "Well, I guess that is how they were taught in questioning school."

Then, it was Paige's turn to be a smartass, and there was no doubt that was what she was doing. It had nothing to do with Michael's perception. Paige was definitely being a smartass. She had made it clear from the beginning that she was not happy that Michael was going to be spending time around her father. "Dr. Jackson, I am not your father's shadow. I am simply in charge of the detail that is responsible for protection while he is running for mayor. When he wins the election, which all of the newspapers are predicting he will do in a landslide, a permanent police detail will be put in place and I doubt I will have anything to do with that. There will be other police officers for you to dislike."

Michael turned and went inside. He had not planned on being that short with Paige, but, once again, she was taking her frustrations with other cops out on him. That is exactly what he had said to her at his condo that night that upset her and ended their date on such a sour note, and here she was doing it again despite having denied it that night.

Walking into the Detective Bureau, Michael showed his badge, Sgt. O'Flynn, IAD. Who is investigating the brawl that happened last week." He was pointed in the direction of a female named Iris Gonzalez, who was a relatively newly promoted detective, but was known to be a hard-charger.. "Detective Gonzalez, I am Sgt. O'Flynn, IAD, can we talk somewhere private?"

Gonzalez led Michael to one of the interview rooms. "Detective, tell me what is going on with your investigation into the brawl." Gonzalez told Michael about the brawl, and how several people had ended up in the hospital for a few days, and how one guy who was known to be a thug had been treated and released at Mass Gen. She said she believed that he was responsible for the incident and that she was considering bringing charges against him.

Michael listened to her rundown. "So, detective, we have a street brawl with combatants that are all willingly engaged in the fight. There are several people injured, yet, you are only considering charges against one of the men. In addition, the man you are considering charges against was injured in said brawl, yet, you are not considering charging anyone for his injuries. Now, I understand why a civilian would file a complaint with IAD about this."

Michael left the precinct after the detective saw it his way and agreed that it wasn't worth bringing charges against multiple people for a street fight. and after making her understand that it would not be a good idea for a newly promoted detective to be discussing with ANYONE why IAD had decided to have a talk with her. "Just tell them that it is confidential."

Heading to a speaking engagement that Mr. Jackson had, Michael used a recently purchased burner phone to call Seamus and let him know things had been taken care of. Seamus disconnected the call without saying anything. Michael wondered if he had truly moved to the dark side. He had just walked into a precinct, misled a detective about a civilian complaint, convinced her to stop investigating a known criminal, and then let the criminal know everything was okay.

Relieving the detective on duty for the detail, Michael was happy that Paige wasn't present. It was a relatively simple speaking engagement until Jackson was walking away from the podium and someone started shouting at him aggressively and making his way toward Jackson. Michael was able to intercept the man before he got close to the candidate. The man continued to shout about how all Jackson cared about was making money and what was he going to do about the homeless people. Michael talked to the man and got him to calm down. "Give Mr. Jackson a chance. He will let you know what his whole platform is in due time."

It wasn't like Michael believed that Jackson would ever talk about the homeless, it was just that he knew how to handle the situation. The man calmed down and Michael walked back to his vehicle and followed the candidate home. While he was sitting in his vehicle outside the Jackson home, Michael noticed Mr. Jackson approach him. "I saw how you handled the situation back there. You are really good. Not only did you keep the man from getting to me, you got him to calm down and did not have to resort to getting physical with him. I like that. In fact, I like it so much that I just got off the phone with the Chief and I told him that I want you in charge of my security detail once I am elected mayor."

Michael just smiled at Jackson, but in his mind he said, "that's great, I fucked up in reverse."

 

[zydrate]

Another day, another dollar.

It had been a couple of days since Paige had talked to Michael at the police station. The detective said she was going to call Paige if she had any more questions or vice versa and since Paige didn't hear from her, she assumed they were done with her...

She figured that was a good thing. But it did make her think about Michael and the way she treated him. She had gone over their conversation time and again and knew that she be nicer to him. But there was just something about him that made her take her frustrations out on him… as she arrived at the hospital that evening, she had been talking to Mary about. The older woman just smiled as she listened to what Paige had to say, “Sounds to me that you like him,” she had interjected when Paige took a breath from her little rant.

“What?!” Paige said as she stopped abruptly in the hall and just stared at the older woman, “I do not like him.”

“But you went on a date with him, remember?”

“Of course, and it was a disaster.”

“That was your fault.”

“Mine?!” Paige was completely lost, “Are you taking his side?”

Mary shrugged and smiled, “You like him. Admit it. Even though the first date didn’t end as well as it should have and now, he’s in charge of your father’s security detail. Come on, admit it Paige, the universe is setting you two up for something.”

After her shift was over that morning, Paige grabbed her bag and walked out of the hospital to go home and get some rest. Just as she got to her car, her phone buzzed, reminding her she had an appointment. Looking at her phone, it showed she had plans to attend the mayoral debate later that evening.

Oh joy, she thought.

***

Paige had no doubt her father would win this election but, it was still months away. Besides her father leading in mock election results, he was a city favorite as he had the Chief on his side, as well as several high-end business owners. Paige had to be at the debate because well, a supportive family made for a better picture about the candidates’ background.

Despite not wanting to be part of this crowd in support of her father, Paige found the debate entertaining at the very least. When it was over, she and her mother were guided up to the stage and that’s when Paige saw Michael. She sighed inwardly and found herself standing next to him and she gave him a small smile and leaned toward him, “I was wondering if we could talk later?”

Before he could answer, she and her mother were being guided toward her father as he took in the congratulations on the debate. Paige and her mother smiled and shook hands with people who had come up to meet them and their ‘future’ mayor.

They were all so busy with their greetings and introductions, the family didn’t notice someone coming toward them and before anyone could react, shots rang out in the crowd and suddenly, there was chaos amongst the crowd. On instinct, Paige grabbed her mother by the hand and pulled her down to the ground with her… She put herself between her mother and the crowd behind her when another round of shots rang out and more screaming and that’s when Paige felt a hot sting pierce her in the back of her right shoulder. She didn’t feel anything after that as she and her mother were practically dragged to safety.

Another volley of shots and shouting and Paige dared to look at the crowd… she saw some people down and heard sirens in the distance, even of the shouting and screaming. She checked on her mother and tried to calm her down, but she kept asking about Paige’s father… Paige wanted to answer but could soon feel the pain from the gunshot. Doing her best to mask the pain, Paige told her mother that he was fine, “I’m going to check on the others, OK? You wait here and stay low.”

Paige turned and looked at the crowd…standing, she felt herself immediately get dizzy and felt a shooting pain from the back of her shoulder all the way down to her arm.. she needed to help…

 

[BeachBum25]

Michael was positioned stage left, just behind a curtain so that he was out of sight of the people in the audience and the people watching on television, yet he was close enough that he could get to Mr. Jackson if he needed to. The entire security detail was working the debate since it was such a high profile event.

The debate itself was uneventful. Michael didn't listen to much of what was being said. His eyes were moving around the room looking for anyone that might be a threat to Mr. Jackson. After the debate ended, and the candidates shook hands, Michael moved a little closer, but still keeping his distance. He noticed Mrs. Jackson and her daughter being ushered up onto the stage. He gave Mrs. Jackson a little smile and then a small nod to Dr. Jackson. He was surprised when Paige asked if they could talk later, although, she didn't wait for his response.

Watching closely as everyone on the stage started shaking hands and introducing one another, Michael saw sudden movement coming from the other side of the stage. Instinctively, he rushed to Mr. Jackson and tackled him to the floor; covering him with his body as the first shots rang out. As he lay on top of the candidate, Michael reached for Paige. He didn't, in that moment, know why he had done so; especially with shots being fired. He missed Paige as she grabbed her mother and pulled her to the floor.

Michael's weapon was out and his focus was now the threat. "Stay down Mr. Jackson, cover your head and don't move." Michael saw the other members of the detail moving onto the stage. They were able to eliminate the threat. Michael stayed on Mr. Jackson. "Just stay here a second. I am going to get up and check on things. Do not get up until I personally tell you to."

The concern going through Michael's head was that the two men who had charged the stage, who were now laying dead on the stage, were not acting alone. He looked around, and as he turned to look in the direction opposite where the first threat had come from, Michael saw sudden movement and a flash. Michael fired two shots at the person shooting at him. It was the last thing he remembered.

Wearing the bulletproof vest was something Michael did every day on the job. It didn't matter whether he was working in the detective bureau or out on the streets. While he was a detective, a lot of the other detectives made fun of him for wearing it. The used to ask him if he was afraid someone was going to come in and shoot up the detective bureau. He just laughed with them.

When he came to, Michael was being wheeled down a hallway. He could feel pain in his right thigh, his right hip, and his left arm. "What's going on?" One of the women walking next to him, Michael assumed she was a nurse, although that was probably sexist, told him to relax and that he was on his way to surgery.

"Shit, surgery. That means I am going to be out of work for a long time." The woman looked down at him. "You need to thank your vest, because it took the two shots that would have ripped through your chest and probably killed you." Michael's eyes got wide. He thought back to the detectives laughing. "Who's laughing now."

He was wheeled into the Operating Room. There was a whirlwind of activity. People moving around. Some talking to him. Some talking to others in the room. Then, Michael was out again.

When he woke up in the Recovery Room, the Chief and Mr. Jackson were standing there looking at him. Both of them smiled when he opened his eyes. The Chief started speaking, Michael just heard his voice echoing and couldn't make out the words at first. Then he heard the Chief say that because of his actions at the end of the debate, he was being promoted to Lieutenant and the other men on the detail were also being promoted. "Mr. Jackson is so thankful for what you and the men on the detail did, that he wanted to make you Chief after he gets elected. I had to talk him out of that."

Michael gave a half-hearted smile. "Did we get all of the perps?" The Chief nodded. "You are going to be on desk duty for a while until the investigation is finished, but the two shots you fired both went through the heart of the guy who shot you. Although, he did fire more shots than you did."

"So, nobody else was hurt or killed but the bad guys?" Michael saw Mr. Jackson look down. "My daughter Paige was hit with a bullet in the shoulder. She is going to be okay, eventually. She had surgery, it didn't last as long as yours did. She is in a room and resting well."

"Damn it. I am so sorry. I reached for her when I was on top of you, but I couldn't get her. She pulled your wife to the floor." Michael got very quiet. Suddenly, he felt like he had failed in protecting the candidate and his family. It was even worse because Paige was the one who was wounded.

 

[zydrate]

Paige did her best to ignore the pain in her shoulder... she knew she had been shot in the arm. Her mother was near hysterics as Paige knelt down as a guard came to them, "Stay here with her," she told the man, "It's going to be OK mom." With that Paige looked around to find her father.. it was all happening too fast, people were running and screaming but there were no more gunshots... just chaos...

Seeing her father was doing OK and being led away from the mess, she called to the man who was watching her mother to do the same. Even though she was hurt, Paige knew she needed to help. As she surveyed the stage, she saw Michael who was down, "No..." she rushed to him and knelt beside him as another officer tried to pull her away, "Stop! I'm a doctor!"

"But you're hurt!"

"He's off worse," she saw the holes in Michael's suit and held in her panicking. This wasn't the first time she had worked on someone who was shot but this was the first time someone she knew was shot. She gave him a quick look starting at his head and checking for any wounds and then working down his head...his neck, torso, arms and kept moving down. "Michael?! Can you open your eyes?" She asked as she ran her hands over his check and felt that he had a vest on...but still, she had to make sure as she opened his vest and saw that no bullets made it through, thank goodness. "Michael, it's Paige..."

She took his tie and yanked it off of him and used it to tie it around his forearm where one bullet had made a clean entry and exit so she secured the tie around it. But there were 2 shots she was worried about, that was the one in the hip and upper thigh on his right side, where there were no exit wounds so that meant he'd have to have them taken out but in the meantime, she had applied pressure to them.

Paige was so wrapped in adrenaline as she forgot about her shoulder and had gasped in pain when someone brushed against it as they ran away.

****

The ER was a mess. She and Michael had been taken to Mass Gen and she had gave report on what happened and what injuries Michael sustained. The nurses pulled Paige away as Michael was stable and was immediately taken to surgery as Paige was attended to. They say doctors make the worse patients and Paige was no exception. She had been told she needed surgery too, obviously and she had asked for a local but of course, that was a bad idea.

The next thing Paige woke up as a nurse called her name, telling her to wake up. Then she heard her father say the same thing. It took a few tries but she finally did open her eyes and saw her father standing there as well as Mary, her friend and co-worker in the ER. Thankfully they were the only ones there and Paige nodded, "I'm awake.." she said, "How's mom?"

Paige listened and she heard her father tell her that her mother was at home resting. Nodding as best she could, Paige looked around and saw all the flowers, "You'd think I died... uggh, Dad, how are you? Any injuries?"

He had said no and mentioned that Michael saved him by doing his job, "How is Michael?" she asked, her voice a bit more stronger.

"He's good," Mary said, "He's out of surgery and resting."

"That's good." Paige said before falling back asleep.

****

Paige was standing outside Michael's room, watching a nurse take his vitals. It was the middle of the night and she had woken up in a lot of pain from her surgery. Although it was successful, she would need PT and wouldn't be returning to work for a couple of weeks. On the other hand, Michael wasn't so lucky but, he was. Paige had seen her fair share of injuries and tragedies while working in the ER... but when she was trying to work on Michael after the debate, she had never felt so nervous but knew her training had taken over.

She walked into his room and instinctively looked at his monitors, everything looked good... heart rate was steady as was his blood pressure and O2 sats... Damnit, Paige thought as she looked at him before taking a seat next to his bed.

Paige didn’t say anything at first. Instead, she let a few moments of silence passed before she sighed, “I’m sorry.”

“Had you not been there this afternoon, then this wouldn’t have happened. Then again, had my father not decided to run for Mayor and needed protec—I don’t know. I just feel that all this because some idiots needed to make a point.” Even though he was sleeping, she talked to him like he was awake.

“I guess you were wondering what I wanted to talk to you about… well, I had wanted to say I’m sorry for treating you the way I had been. I guess I was taking my frustrations out on you when you were only trying to be helpful.”

Paige was going to say something else but decided not to, instead, she stood up carefully and then reached for his hand, giving it a gentle squeeze, “Again, sorry for what happened earlier today, I know it’s not my fault but somehow, I feel it’s my family’s fault for all this.”

Even though Paige knew she would need to say all this again, at least she had some practice when she saw him again soon… hopefully. With that, she walked out of his room and went back to hers. She was going to be released tomorrow afternoon but again, would require some physical therapy and a few weeks off of work.

 

[BeachBum25]

Before the Chief and Mr. Jackson left, Michael fell back asleep. Although he was in recovery, and had come through the surgery fairly well, the small conversation that he had with them was far more than he was ready to handle. Michael hadn't even thought about it being odd that the two of them were even permitted to be in the recovery room.

The next thing he remembered was opening his eyes to a large, empty room. Well, it was empty except for all of the monitoring equipment and a television. The one thing that Michael noticed when he woke up was that he hurt all over; his arms, his hip, his legs and his chest. He slowly moved to look at bandages on his arm, his leg, and his hip. That explained the pain. He wondered about the chest pain though, forgetting that he had been told how the bullet proof vest had saved his life. Before he knew it, he was back out again.

That scene played out several times over the next few days. There were short periods of consciousness followed by significantly longer periods of unconsciousness. On several occasions there were doctors and/or nurses in the room while he was awake, but the conversations, if any, were short and uneventful.

There was one time during an unconscious period that Michael thought he heard someone talking to him, and there was a sense of someone holding his hand. He did not, however, have any clear memory of it when he was conscious the next time.

Gradually, the awake periods started to last longer. He had several conversations with doctors and nurses; all of them asking him the same question, "How are you feeling?" Michael's response was always the same, "Better."

While Michael sat in bed, the events that occurred after the debate started to come back to him. The more he was awake, the more he remembered. Everything came back into focus. Well, not everything. It seems that he remembered firing his weapon and then everything went blank. He could not remember getting shot. The best he could figure was he was hit five times, arm, leg, hip and twice in the chest. The real concerning ones were the leg and the hip that had required surgery.

There was one thing that haunted him from that day; he didn't protect Paige. Granted, he wasn't there for Paige's protection, but she was so close when it all began, and he tried, but missed when he reached for her. As a result, Paige was wounded; something Michael wished he could have prevented.

As he spent more and more time awake, Michael became a worse and worse patient; constantly asking when he was going to be discharged. He was constantly told he was not ready to go, and he responded that he was more than ready to go. One doctor told him that he was going to need Physical Therapy before he was discharged, and that when he was discharged, he would be sent to a rehabilitation center for more PT. Michael nearly lost his mind when he heard that. "NO. I am not going to a rehab place. Either get me in-home rehab, or out-patient rehab, but I am not going to be couped up in another medical facility." The response was that the city was going to require that he go to the rehab facility if he wanted to get back on the job.

Michael had several visitors come see him from the Emergency Room. A couple doctors and several nurses that he remembered from when he was working the local precinct. He asked them about Dr, Jackson (he didn't dare call her Paige to her co-workers) and they shared that she was doing well but would be out of work for a while. "Please tell Dr. Jackson that I was asking for her and that I hope she is recovering well."

The news of having to go to the rehab facility was only made worse when Michael was told that there were several news outlets that wanted to speak with him. TV stations wanted to do reports... newspapers wanted to do articles... Michael wanted nothing to do with any of them. "Just tell them there is no story here. I am just a cop that was doing my job."

Things really went south when the Chief and Mr. Jackson insisted on holding a promotion ceremony in Michael's hospital room. There was a TV camera crew there doing pool footage that would be shared with all networks who would to their own reports using voice over by their reporters. Michael tried to keep a straight face, but he wasn't happy. It was an opportunity for Mr. Jackson to get some free publicity, and the Chief to look good to the public.

When the camera crew, Chief and Mr. Jackson left, the doctor came in to his room. "Well Lieutenant, it looks like you are doing better. I think we will move you to the rehab center tomorrow. Michael just shook his head. "Tell me something Doc, how long before I can go back to work?" The doctor shook his head. "I am thinking probably eight months to a year." Michael almost lost his mind.

 

[zydrate]

“You did what?!” Paige exclaimed to her father. She had heard him, but she couldn’t believe it, “Why in the world would you do that??” Even though she had been resting at her childhood home, she wasn’t planning on staying any longer than the end of week. She had only been home for a day when her father told her about the news crew and Michael’s promotion. “You are unbelievable… anything to get your name out there, huh?”

“Why do you care, Paige?”

“I care because you’re using someone to power up in your votes.”

“It’s funny because I remember him asking about you when we first went to visit him when he got out of surgery.”

Paige tried to shrug but forgot it hurt to do that, she just shook her head, “Probably because he knows we were all there as you insisted.” She wasn’t ready to tell him how she knew Michael, besides, it wasn’t anyone’s business…

Paige was in her doctor’s office, waiting to be seen, as she went over this morning’s shouting match with her father. She hadn’t heard her name being called until someone tapped her good shoulder. She had only been at home for no less than 24 hours when she had a follow up with her own doctor. Her right arm was in a sling to immobilize it due to surgery and as much as she was in pain, she refused to show it.

Her doctor could only do what Paige suspected; to send her to physical and occupational therapy as well as a counselor should she think she would need it. She had refused any pain meds and would rely on over-the-counter meds. Not to do anything strenuous and to get plenty of rest.

She promised she would try her best to rest.

****

After her shared ride dropped her off at the hospital, Paige went to talk to her boss. Things were a mess, and she was already tired as she made her way to the ER after, just getting there as the evening shift got in. Mary saw her and gently gave her a hug as others came and told Paige they told her to get better soon.

“Why are you here?” Mary asked, taking Paige to the employee lounge so they could talk a little more. Paige had explained she was only here to talk to Dr. Hayden about when she’d be back and get paperwork to fill out for her leave. “Have you gone up to see Michael yet?” Mary asked.

“Not yet. I was going to but I’m sure he doesn’t want to see me since my family’s business got him shot.”

“Nonsense, he was asking about you earlier.”

“He was?”

Mary nodded and pushed Paige toward the door, “Go check on him and go home.”

***

Paige knocked at the entryway to Michael’s room, “Umm.. hi… are you up for visiting?” she asked him. Before he answered, she walked over to him and handed him a small box, putting it carefully in his left hand, “It’s a tie… since I kind of ruined the one you were wearing… anyway, you look good… but of course, looking good and feeling good aren’t the same.”

"I heard about what happened with the promotion and the news being here for it. That wasn't right. If anything, you needed rest... you still need rest. My father, he's-- well, it seems like I'm always apologizing for him to others."