Path to Elysian

[BeachBum25]

Watching the doctor walk out of his room, Michael tried to calm himself down. There was no way that he was going to be able to do anything right now that would get him back to work quicker than the estimate given by the doctor. He was going to have to push himself in physical therapy, both in patient and out.

Sitting in his bed after the doctor left, Michael turned on the television. He didn't care what was on, he just needed some noise to try to filter out the anger running through his mind. He was shocked when he heard a knock at his door and looked over and saw Paige standing there.

Michael looked at the box that Paige placed in his hand and listened as she told him what it was. "Well, thanks for the tie, but also thanks for using the one I was wearing for something other than a decoration around my neck."

"I look good. Well, damn, I should be an actor then, because I am certainly not feeling good. Physically, I hurt all over. Mentally, I am in a really bad place. They tell me that they can't just discharge me and send me home for out patient PT. The city is insisting I start with in-patient PT, so, I get to go to another medical facility, and sleep in another hospital bed, and be couped up there 24 hours each day. Yes, I know I am rambling and I am sorry that I am venting at you, Dr. Jackson."

He closed his eyes and took several deep breaths. He knew it was wrong to go off on Paige. Unfortunately, she had walked in when he was still processing the information the doctor had given him. "I am really sorry Paige. I apologize for going off on you. It is just that the doctor just left after telling me that I am being sent to the rehab facility tomorrow, and when I asked him how long before I could go back to work, he told me eight months to a year. What am I supposed to do with myself during that time?"

"Listen, don't worry about your father and the press being here for my promotion. I must admit that I expected something like that to happen. I knew that the Chief would want to capitalize on me getting shot. Having the top mayoral candidate who has committed to keeping the Chief in place when elected show up too is not a surprise."

He looked at Paige and her arm in the sling. "How are you doing Doc? I am sorry I couldn't keep you from getting hit. I reached for you while I was on top of your father, but you were too busy saving your mother and getting her out of the way."

After waiting for her to respond, Michael decided to take the conversation away from gunshot wounds. "So, Paige, what was it that you said you wanted to talk to me about as you were walking up onto the stage that day?"

 

[zydrate]

When Michael said he should be an actor after she said he looked, Paige gave him a small smirk, "Haha," she said, as she dragged a chair next to Michael's bed.

"Don't worry about it... vent away, I'll listen..." he started to talk about going to an in-patient rehab facility and she nodded as she tried to keep her mind from going to doctor mode and giving him rationale about why he would be required to go to a facility.

"I know it's hard and I don't know what to tell you except that if you make adequate progress, they might send you home sooner and even then, you might need in home care for a bit. At least someone to cook for you and such."

He was more understanding than others about her father... she saw him look at her arm in a sling and he apologized for not able to get her down quick enough before getting hit. Paige sighed and looked at her arm, "It's not your fault... you did your job and made sure my father was safe, that's why you were there. Besides, it's just a scratch... at least now I can add GSW to my list of injuried received so far... too bad it doesn't count toward my ER statistics."

She thought that would at least get him to smile... but no use as he asked her what it was she wanted to talk to him about that day.

"Oh, well..." she shrugged, only to grimace in pain as she had forgotten she couldn't do that right now, "I had wanted to talk to you about everything between us... mostly what you had said about taking things out on you regarding the events I had gone through with the police and say you were right. I was taking out my frustrations on you because you were there and basically the epitome of what was giving me trouble. It wasn't fair and I wanted to say I'm sorry for that. It ruined a date between us and perhaps a prospective friendship between us." Paige had wanted to say more but a knock at the door made her look and saw someone she didn't know, perhaps a friend of his...?

"Well, I better get going, I guess." She stood and reached over to give his hand a squeeze, "If you want, I can come see you tomorrow if you're up to it?"

 

[BeachBum25]

Michael listened as Paige talked to him as Dr. Jackson; telling him that if he made progress that he might get sent home sooner but he still might need in home care. He thought it funny that she mentioned he might need someone to cook for him. He wondered if she was talking about herself, but then remembered that she said she wasn't much of a cook.

As Paige was talking about the disastrous ending of their date, Michael was wondering if she was going to say that she thought they should give it another try. Of course, it would be a while before that could happen considering the physical state they were both in. However, before she could complete her thoughts, there was a knock at the door and she quickly ended their visit saying she could come and visit him the next day if he was okay with it. "I would like for you to come and see me tomorrow Paige, but you better make it early, because I have no idea what time they will ship me out."

Paige got up and headed out of the room as Michael's new visitor entered the room. As they passed one another, they gave each other a look.. one that seemed to indicate that they recognized each other.

The new visitor then turned his attention to Michael. "Well, don't you look for shit. I have seen dead people that look better than you, Sport." Michael just looked at Seamus and shook his head. "So, all you needed to do to get promoted was to take a couple of bullets for a politician. Hell, keep it up and you could be Chief in no time."

Looking at the visitor, Michael just shook his head. "So Seamus, what brings you here? Why is an important person like you visiting with some cop in the hospital who got shot on duty?" Seamus looked at Michael in mock disappointment. "Why can't I visit my friend, one of Boston's finest who risked his life saving the life of another?" Seamus' question was full of sarcasm. "But, before we get into all of that, what was the hot little doctor doing here visiting you? She come in to give you some personal attention?" Seamus winked. "Of course. she would have only been able to use one hand with her one arm in a sling." Seamus laughed. "That is the doctor I told you had treated me when I came here after my little altercation."

"We had worked together on a few cases when I was a Sergeant in patrol around here, so, I know her from that. She also happens to be the daughter of the person I was protecting, so, she came to thank me for saving her father." Michael stared at Seamus. "You coming here after you gave them your first name but no last name doesn't make a lot of sense Seamus. If the police were in here asking questions about your little incident, someone recognizing you here might call them and let them know that you are here."

Seamus just shook his head. "I won't be here long Mick. I just wanted to come and check up on you. Hell Mick, you look like shit. At least when I get hurt in my line of business it is usually just a couple of bruises and maybe a stitch or two from a hot little doctor. Look at you, filled with lead, and making a whole lot less money than you could make with me. You need to start thinking about a change of careers Mick. I could use a guy like you protecting me."

Although Seamus had talked before about Michael coming to work for him, there had never been anything so specific mentioned. Now Seamus was talking about a particular role with his organization. "You don't have to answer me now Mick, It is obviously going to be a while before you can do anything, but you should start thinking about it. I will pay you twice what the city of Boston is paying their new Lieutenant. Anyway, I gotta run. Don't want to be standing around here too long. Take care Mick. I will be checking in on you."

Without waiting for Michael to say anything, Seamus turned and quickly headed out the door. "See ya Seamus." He had come to deliver his message and was out the door and gone in no time at all.

It had been an eventful 20 minutes with the visits from paige and Seamus. The rest of the day dragged on. Michael kept himself busy watching television.

The next morning, a nurse came in and told him that he was going to be transferred today, something Michael already knew. "Transport should be here for you around 11 am and it is only a short ride to your new home. When you get there they will do a whole intake procedure and go over what your routine will be. I will be back in a little while to get your vitals. Is there anything I can get you?" Michael looked at her and smiled, "Yeah, a getaway car."

The nurse laughed and left the room. "Well, I guess I should just look at this as making progress. They are letting me out of here, at least."

 

[zydrate]

Paige saw the patient she had been questioned on was the person visiting Michael. For some reason, she had wanted to say something, but she thought better of it and just let it go. It was none of her business, so she just left. Although she was beginning to have second thoughts about visiting again tomorrow…

There were a few other doctors and nurses she had passed in the hall had wished her well and told her to get better soon. She thanked them as she made her way to wait for a car. She suddenly felt drained of energy and leaned against the wall as she waited. Paige hadn’t realized how much it took to get around. Of course, it was different after an injury but still, she was surprised.

Once she got back to her apartment, her cellphone rang, and she groaned seeing who it was…that damn reporter from the paper. She just let it go to voicemail as she had wanted to rest and then get something to eat.

***
Paige found herself outside Michael’s room the next morning around 9AM. She had thought of not visiting him after seeing his guest yesterday but just let it slide. It wasn’t her business. She had a hell of a night sleeping that was for sure, so she had gone shopping for Michael. Why was she doing this for him? She didn’t know. She had a friend of a men’s store open early for her as a favor so she could get some things for Michael. He was going to rehab and of course didn’t have anything such as clothes to change into or some such, so she had gotten him a few things. Some t-shirts, shorts, sweatpants, slippers, and some bathroom essentials.

She was dragging them in a rolling suitcase behind her with her good arm. It was the most practical way she could think to get it to him as she couldn’t carry them. Knocking on his door, she gave him a smile and entered, “Good morning,” she set the suitcase down by the small table in his room and then took a seat once more in the chair next to his bed, grimacing as she got comfortable. “I got you a few things to take with you to rehab once they release you that is.”

 

[BeachBum25]

Michael was looking through the bag containing his belongings. It hadn't dawned on him that the only clothes he had with him were the clothes he had been wearing when he was shot. The belongings bag contained his wallet, badge, his belt, his holster and his blood-stained shoes. He assumed that everything else had been cut off of him as medics and then the doctors and nurses worked on him.

"Isn't this great. They are sending me to a rehab place and I am going to be stuck wearing a fucking hospital gown all the time." He threw the bag down on the bed. Being the only child of a single mother who had passed away in a car crash limited the options that Michael had to stop by his place to get him some clothes. He could not trust his friends to do it, because he couldn't even imagine what they would return with; probably something that would make Michael prefer wearing the hospital gown. Then, he thought of Paige... "NO."

Sitting back in his bed, waiting for word on when he was going to be transferred, Michael stared up at the ceiling. He was frustrated; frustrated about his confinement, frustrated about allowing himself to get shot, frustrated with his interactions yesterday with Seamus, and frustrated by Paige. He had never lost interest in her, but had resigned himself, after the awful ending of their date, that there would never be anything between them. As time went on, he had thought less and less of her. Then, he got the detail to guard her father, and it brought the two of them back into close proximity. Still, she seemed cold toward him and indicated that she didn't want him guarding her father. Right before they were both shot, she had asked to meet with him, and then she visited him in the hospital. Yes, she was frustrating.

Hearing a knock at the door, he looked over and saw Paige. "Speak of the devil," he thought to himself. "Hey Paige, thanks for coming back to see me, again." He saw her wheeling a suitcase, and he heard her say that she got him a few things. "Thank you so much Paige. You are a god-send. I was just sitting here thinking I was stuck with no clothes to wear at rehab, and I had nobody to ask to go to my place to get me anything."

Michael asked Paige to have a seat for a little while. "Our visit was cut short yesterday. I have to tell you, that you are much better company than the person that interrupted our visit. I appreciate you getting me some things. You really didn't have to do that, Paige. It is really nice of you and I can't thank you enough. Just let me know how much I owe you and I will get you the money." He picked up the bag with his belongings in it and took out his wallet. "I am sure that the $34 that I have with me won't cover it."

They talked for a while. It really felt good to talk with Paige. It helped him relax and took his mind off what he had coming at the rehab place. He still had no idea how long he was going to be there.

He had just asked Paige about what the prognosis was for her being able to return to work when a nurse walked in with his discharge instructions. "Transport will be up in 20 minutes. When you get to Patriot Rehab they will go over the plan that they develop for you. If you want to change into something other than the hospital gown, you should probably do that now."

Looking at Paige, "thanks to you, I have something to change into. Now, unless you want me to put on a show for you, you might want to close the curtain around the bed." It was a struggle for Michael to get dressed. He put on a pair of shorts and a t-shirt. He didn't put on boxers because it would have taken too much energy to add the third article of clothing.

Just as Michael finished dressing, and leaned back in bed exhausted, the nurse opened the curtain, "transport is here." He looked to Paige. "Thanks again for the clothes. You are a life saver. I owe you, big time." Two men came over to the bed and helped Michael out of the bed and into a wheelchair. It hurt to move, and it was very uncomfortable in the wheelchair.

When he arrived at Patriot Rehab, the admitting supervisor went over the plan. "Tomorrow morning we will do an assessment to see where you are and to develop a plan for you. Before you ask it, I know the question on your mind.... how long am I going to be here? Well, that depends on a lot of things, and it is something we will have a better idea of after the initial assessment. Once that is complete, your therapist will be able to give you some idea."

Michael was wheeled to his room. He noticed that there was only one bed in the room, but it was set up for two. "What can you tell me about my roommate and where is his bed?" The orderly shook his head. "You must know somebody in high places, because the room is set up to be a single for you. The boss lady got a call to make it happen." Michael simply nodded. "Well, I guess that is the benefit for taking a couple of bullets for somebody in a high ranking position."

The assessment the next morning was brutal. Michael found it difficult to move. The therapist asked him to move in certain ways while he sat in the wheelchair. Then she asked Michael to get up from the wheelchair and move to a chair. Michael wasn't able to get up. The wounds to his leg and hip made it impossible to stand up, and the wound to his arm didn't allow him to use his left arm to push himself out of the wheelchair.

Once she was completed with the assessment, the therapist sat down with Michael. "This is going to take a lot of time and effort, but I am certain you will get through it. My biggest concern is that you look like someone who pushes himself real hard. That, in most cases is a good thing, but it could be bad in rehab if you push too hard. I will let you know when I think you are overdoing it. You have to trust me when I tell you to ease off."

Michael felt the urge to unleash a string of expletives, however, he knew it wasn't the therapists fault, and he wanted to keep her on his side. Looking at her, Michael shrugged his shoulders. "I will try my best to follow your directions."

 

[zydrate]

Paige collasped on the floor, sweat covering her body and her shoulder on fire as she lay there, in pain and trying not to show how much pain she was in. It had been 3 weeks since she had been shot and physical therapy had been going terrible. First, she had developed an infection a few days after having her stitches removed and that landed her in the hospital for a good week and then she had gotten the news that she would be out of work at least for 4 months...

Nothing seemed to go right for a time and she had all about given up but knew she couldn't. Now, in P.T., she could actually feel what it was like she had only just heard from patients about P.T.... it fucking sucked.

She had only been able to visit Michael just once a few days after he was admitted to the rehab center, but she had gotten a warning from her father that she needed to stay away from him as rumors could get started. She had never told him about their one tragic date a few months prior and she wasn't about to as she didn't want any lecture from him. It was for the best though, she had gotten rumor that an old flame had started to visit him while he was in rehab... as much as it bugged her, Paige knew to stay away as it was what it was... if only things hadn't happened the way it did, then perhaps she would've been able to talk to him after her father's debate had ended but no, some idiot had to mess things up...

Paige really did like Michael but she had only realized that a litte too late. She a lot of time to think these days as she was doing one of two things, either in PT or at home, being miserable. She hadn't realized what a sad life she had until she had not been permitted to work. Of course, she was invited to participate with helping out in her father's campaign, at least in the last leg of it.

"Come on Paige, get up, we're not done." Her therapist, Lewis Hewitt had said, standing over her. He was such a fucking pain, in more ways than one. He was arrogant and didn't care that Paige was a doctor and didn't treat her as one. Not that she expected it but he could at least acknowledge she knew more about what her body could and couldn't do.

By the time she left PT that evening, Paige's body was burning. Who needed a personal fitness coach when she had all this encouragement? All she had wanted to do now was to go home, take a warm bath and go to sleep.

It was recommended that she not drive for at least 2 months but she had no one else to rely on to get her home so yes, she did drive. It wasn't too much as she had only lived a few miles from the PT center. When she got home, she checked her phone voicemails and had only a 2, one from her mother, telling her about a banquet that would be taking place in a few weeks and it would be nice if she could attend with a date. Paige immediately deleted the voicemail...she knew her parents would love to have her married off by now but then again, you had to have a love life in order to get married... and that just didn't seem in her near future at the moment.

Taking quick hot shower, Paige had changed into a pair of leggings and a Harvard t-shirt, she let her long dark brown hair air dry as she prepared herself a frozen pizza. It was all she could do while keeping her arm from doing too much. It was also that she was a terrible cook so most nights, she relied on frozen food or take out. There were few dishes she could prepare from scratch and right now, she just didn't feel like doing that.

After finding something on TV to watch, the timer dinged, letting her know her pizza was ready. As she took it out of the oven, there was a knock at her door. With a puzzled face, she turned the oven off and walked to the door, where she was about to look out the peephole and saw that reporter guy standing there... With a groan, Paige took a few deep breaths before opening the door, keeping the latch in place, "Can I help you?"

"Hey Doctor... I was wondering if I could have a moment of your time, I mean, I know it's a bit late, but I just wanted to talk about something I've been investigating."

"And who are you again?" She seriously had fogotten his name.

"James Conner, I work for--"

"the Star.. sorry, I forgot. Listen, Mr. Conner, could we talk another time please? I'm really tired."

There was a hard pause as he reluctantly agreed, "Can I take you to dinner?"

Dinner? Paige shook her head, "I'm having dinner at my parents' home, perhaps after?"

Another hard pause, she could tell he was not used to being told no, "Sure, that's fine, I'll call you, if that's OK."

"That's fine... goodnight Mr. Conner," with that, she closed the door and shook her head. What a jerk.

 

[BeachBum25]

Day 1 of rehab may have been the worst day of Michael's life. Yes, even worse than the day he was shot. The pain was unbearable, and the frustration at how little he could move on his own was beyond frustrating. The Physical Therapist pushed him hard, and Michael refused to give in to her despite his limited ability to move. It was not in his DNA to quit. He remembered the therapist saying that he shouldn't push himself too hard, but he was not going to accept failure when given a task.

The therapist finally stopped. "We are going to have to go a little slower than I thought Michael. You have the will to do it, but your body hasn't recovered enough yet to be able to do all that I had planned." Michael shook his head at her. "Do not take it easy on me... push me to get moving."

Despite Michael's pleas to have her keep pushing him, the therapist dialed it back a little. Even with the therapist easing up, Michael was in pain after every session, and there were three sessions each day.

When Paige had walked in to visit him after a few days at the rehab center, Michael was very happy. Despite how things had been between them, he still liked her, and he was holding out hope that somehow they would give each other another chance. He enjoyed the time spent with Paige, even though it was just making small talk in the lounge area.

However, Michael was disappointed as time went on and Paige didn't visit him again. He figured that she was just being nice because of what he had done for her father and felt that her obligation had been fulfilled.

Rehab was progressing. It wasn't going as quickly as Michael would like it to go , but it was going. He was now able to get himself up out of the wheelchair, and he was able to take a couple of steps without anyone's help. His therapist was very happy with his progress. Michael, however, was not. He wanted to be out of the rehab place, but he knew that was weeks away.

Being couped up gave Michael a lot of time to think. One of the things that always seemed to be on his mind was the offer that Seamus had made to him. At times Michael couldn't believe that he was actually thinking about taking Seamus up on the offer. Other times, he thought there was no way that he could work for Seamus.

Of course, Seamus decided to visit him one day right in the middle of Michael thinking about him. Michael was surprised that he would show up at rehab to visit him, although he really shouldn't have been. Seamus went wherever he wanted... whenever he wanted.

After some small talk, Seamus got down to the real reason for his visit. "Mikey, listen, while you were working for the guy running for mayor, did you ever see a reporter nosing around and asking questions that may have been outside the normal question and answer sessions?" When Michael told Seamus there was one guy that was asking questions of the daughter, Seamus nodded. "This guy might be a problem. I heard some rumors about him, and I just wanted to confirm that he was nosing around. thanks Mikey. I will take care of this little problem. Remember my offer. I think you should take me up on it"

Before Michael could say anything, Seamus was gone. He knew what Seamus meant by taking care of the problem. This gave Michael pause when considering working for Seamus.

 

[zydrate]

Paige woke up with the usual amount of pain she had been experiencing these past few weeks. She had stopped taking any pain killers except for Tylenol or the such as she didn't like how they made her head feel. Taking a much needed hot shower, she had nothing on plan today. She remembered her talk with that James guy and shrugged it off... she didn't have any dinner with her parents planned and she hoped she could talk her way out of meeting him later tonight.

As she finished drying her hair as best she could with one sore arm and side, she dressed in a pair of jeans and a faded school t-shirt. It was a nice cool morning as she got in her car and got some coffee before heading to see Michael. She hadn't known why she wanted to visit him but she just did.

She reached his room and knocked on the door. He was already dressed and didn't look too happy but at least, he looked a lot better than when she saw him last time, but he did look good and it made her happy to know he was wearing what she had gotten him, "Hey... have time for a visit?" she said as she walked in and handed him a cup of hot coffee she had picked up on her way there, along with a donut. She sat beside him and smiled, "You look better.. how are they treating you?"

Listening to him, Paige nodded as she recognized his frustrations with being here, "Well, it's only for a short time but I know it probably doesn't seem like that... I heard you're a pain to work with." She sipped her coffee, "So, you looked deep in thought when I got here... is something wrong? Or are you planning your escape?"

He asked about her and how she was doing with her shoulder to which Paige shrugged (which also hurt), "I'm fine but I'm out of work for a while. Even though I'm cleared to return to work in 2 months, I was told that I should take a bit more time and perhaps return after the election in November." Her phone rang and she looked at it, frowning at the number.... it was that damn reporter. She silenced her phone and put in her bag, "So, what are you watching?" she said, trying to take both their minds off their current predicaments.

 

[BeachBum25]

Michael pushed himself in PT. He pushed himself to the point that he was constantly in pain, although, he never told anyone about his pain. He was pretty sure the therapist knew. She always asked him why he was hiding the pain and why he was pushing so hard. Michael insisted he wasn't in pain, and he told her that he wasn't pushing too hard, and that if she wanted to see what it was like for him to push himself, just wait until the next session. She told him no, it was okay... she didn't need to see that.

When Paige walked in, Michael was deep in thought about Seamus, his offer, and the reporter. Michael knew that the reporter was in trouble. He had no idea what the reporter could be working on, but he knew that there had to be some threat to Seamus. It wasn't Michael's problem, but if he worked for Seamus, it would be.

"Hey... have time for a visit?"

"Hello Paige. Of course I have time for a visit. Come on in and have a seat." Taking the coffee from Paige, he thanked her for it.

"You look better.. how are they treating you?"

"They are treating me pretty well... working me hard. Of course, I probably am not treating them very well. I am pushing myself too hard, probably. I want out of here as fast as possible, and their timetable is much different than my timetable for getting out of this joint." He laughed when she asked if he was planning an escape. "I would need somebody on the outside to help me. Are you interested in being my getaway driver?"

Listening to her response to being asked how she was doing, Michael could see the pain when she shrugged her shoulders. "I think we are a lot alike Paige. We are both in a hurry to get back to work despite the fact that it is probably not in our best interest."

He heard her phone ring, and watched as she looked at it and then put it into her bag. "Paige, if you need to take that call, I understand. It is no biggie. I am not going anywhere anytime soon." When she asked what he was watching, Michael looked up at the television. "Oh, I wasn't really watching anything. It was on for the background noise."

He looked back to Paige. "So, you wanna help me bust out and we can go on the lamb together?"

 

[zydrate]

"Hmm," she said with a slight nod when he said they were alike and wanted to return to work. For Paige, work was basically all she had... she had no life outside of the hospital just because she had spent so much of her time there. Others, moreso her parents, didn't understand why she spent so much time there. Why she worked such long shifts. She gave up explaining it all, only telling them that work was work.

"Yeah... sure..." she said to his background noise, "I suppose America's Top Model doesn't interest you... sure..." she said, teasing him and took a sip of coffee. Her phone rang again and she didn't even look at it as she silenced it. Even though he had said it was fine if she answered it, she didn't want to.

There was a comfortable silence for a bit before she spoke up, "I have some reporter hounding me to get some dirt on my father before the election. I guess he's been around at the hospital asking for me... Kinda annoying really... he showed up at my doorstep last night begging to talk to me. I told him I would meet him tonight but of course, I said that just to get him to leave me alone," she laughed quietly and shook her head, "doesn't mean he won't stop calling I guess."

"So, you wanna help me bust out and we can go on the lamb together?"

Paige smiled at him... this wasn't the first time he gave the hint he wanted to get out of here. She couldn't blame him, even though they tried to make this place look like a home, it still was a hospital of sorts. Almost like a nursing home. It made her glad she was in outpatient therapy... but she didn't have to stay in a place like this afterward.

"Go on the lamb... you're--" she stopped and really looked at him, "you're serious, aren't you?"

She didn't wait for his answer, "I have my grandfather's place by the lake. We can go there and recover. You won't have to do it alone and besides, it's a lot more therapeutic when it's someplace other than this." It was possible because she wouldn't be able to return to work for a couple more months... as would Michael...

 

[BeachBum25]

Looking at Paige when she said that she had her grandfather's place by the lake and they could go there and recover, Michael smiled at Paige. He was surprised that she she was willing to go out on a limb like that.... or was she? Was she just humoring him by saying that?

"Paige, have I ever given you the idea that I would joke about something like that? I want out of this place so badly. I have been telling them throughout my time here that everything I do here, I can do either at home or in an out-patient facility. I know everything they want me to do. I can do my own therapy anywhere. I just need somebody on the outside to help me out."

He thought about being alone at a cabin by the lake with Paige. That would be awesome. Not only would the lake be the perfect place to relax and rehab, but it would also give Paige and him time together to see if they could move beyond the disastrous ending of their date.

"I know you are just humoring me, Paige. There is no way that you could do anything like that; especially not with your father running for election as mayor. I have seen how mommy and daddy always want you around. They want to give the impression of the happy family, and they like showing off their beautiful daughter, the doctor. They would be very upset if you all of a sudden disappeared, or went into seclusion."

Michael wasn't really sure about Paige's motives. He never really believed that she would be open to it. When he had said it to her about busting him out, it was partially out of frustration, and partially joking with maybe a little flirting with Paige thrown in. Now, was she just playing along, or was she serious?

"You could take my bag to your car. If they ask you what you are doing, you could just tell them you are going to do my laundry. Then you could come back inside and say we are going to sit out front and get some fresh air for a little while. That is when we could make our getaway. Of course, if I am overthinking it, and you were just playing along, I understand."

 

[zydrate]

Was she serious?

Yes... yes she was. Quickly, she downed the rest of her coffee and stood up, nodding to his suggestions, "Where is your bag?" He pointed it out and she grabbed it. "What time is your next session?" she asked as she tossed the clothes into the bag. He told her and she looked at her watch, "OK, in an hour, we have time."

Quickly, but trying to act nonchalant, Paige took Michael's bag to her car and then she parked a little closer to the building and left her car unlocked as she walked back inside. She smiled at some passing workers and continued on her way. Even though Michael wasn't imprisoned, Paige was essentially breaking him out. She had to laugh a bit to herself, as this wasn't a crime but it sure felt like one.

This definitely wasn't on her list of things to do today.

When she got back to his room, Michael was ready. "Hold on..." she told him and grabbed her small note pad from her bag. Quickly writing down that he was leaving against medical advice and understood what he was doing and in the end, released the facility of any health liabilities by doing this. Yeah, she knew the game.

Squatting down beside him, she handed him the note, "OK... are you sure about this?" She watched him sign it and hand it back to her. "OK." She tore the page out and left it on his bed, "Let's go!"

****

They had been driving for a little over 30 minutes, having made it out of the city and heading toward the house by the lake. Michael was sleeping on and off as Paige went through what she needed to get when she went grocery shopping later. For now, they were going to get settled and then she would go get something for lunch and then go back out shopping again afterward once she had Michael comfortable.

The house was a great place to get away, at least in Paige's mind. Her grandfather had left her the place when he passed a couple of years ago. Was she spoiled by her grandfather? Yes, she would admit it. But never did she act spoiled.. at least she assumed she didn't. Only a mile or two away from the main road, the house was nestled in almost the quietest of areas... literally in the middle of the 100 acres of land that was also passed down to her. The road wasn't too bumpy but it did wake Michael up and Paige told him, "We're here."

 

[BeachBum25]

After gladly signing the waiver that Paige had written out for him, Michael, moving slowly, followed Paige out of his room and through the main lobby area. If anyone questioned him, he was just going to sit out front to get some fresh air before his next session.

By the time that got to Paige's car, he was in pain, sore and exhausted. It was the farthest he had walked without stopping since being shot and he was completely out of breath. After sitting into Paige's car, he took some deep breaths; trying to force air into his lungs. The pain he expected. He hadn't been pain free for a single day since the shooting. He certainly didn't think he would be that way today. The soreness Michael didn't care about. He was sore from using muscles that had not been used to that extent in some time. The soreness would go away with some work.

As they drove away, he looked at Paige. "You can still bail on this plan Paige. I don't want to cause you any problems. You can drop me off at the end of the drive and I can walk back inside if you want out." However, Michael could see the look on her face said that she was serious about going forward.

Throughout the ride, Michael dozed off. As hard as he tried to stay awake and keep Paige company, he fell asleep several times. One of the times he woke up, he reached over and patted Paige's thigh. "Look at you busting me out of that "jail." Now we are on the run like a new age Bonnie and Clyde." He laughed a little, and then quickly pulled his hand away from Paige's thigh. "I am sorry Paige. That was wrong of me. I didn't mean anything by it. I should not have touched you."

They rode in silence for a while. He was angry with himself despite the fact that he had not consciously intended to touch her inappropriately. He looked over and could tell that Paige was deep in thought.

When they pulled up to the lake house, Michael sat up in his seat. "Holy crap Paige!! This is yours? This house is amazing.. and it is right on the lake. Hell, I may never leave. You might have to call the authorities to have me evicted."

Michael was in awe of the house and the location. He had grown up in the city and, other than his time in the military, he had spent his whole life in the city. This was another world to him.... a world that he could get used to living in.

He got out of the car and walked down toward the lake. Moving slowly, he made it to the dock and stopped. The view across the lake was magnificent. Then, he turned around and looked back at the house..... "amazing. Hey Paige, you think they have any law enforcement openings up here?" He laughed and headed back off the dock.

"I am sorry to act like a little kid, but I have never seen anything like this... the house, the lake, the surroundings. I don't know how I am ever going to thank you, Paige."

 

[zydrate]

Although it was an awkward moment when Michael put his hand on her leg, Paige did her best to push that aside even though she was sure she felt electricity from his touch... she wasn't upset at him for that at all.

She felt a bit of pride to see him in awe of the house and of course, the lake. Paige stayed close to him, ready to help him in case he couldn't make it even though he did get some rest on the way to the lake, he was stationary and hadn't moved his muscles in a while.

"I'm glad you like it," she said, happy inside that he did like it. "Let's go in and I show you up there also?" She went to him and took his good hand and arm, placing it around her shoulders, "Don't be afraid to lean on me, OK? I'm stronger than I look." Besides, it was a bit uphill so she knew he must be hurting and tried to distract him with what to expect, "I don't expect you to stay on the second floor, I think that's a bit too much for now but, there is a bedroom on the first floor and the 4 are upstairs. There's no TV in the bedrooms only because well, my grandfather didn't think it was necessary. The living room has a TV but if you want one in your room, just let me know and I'll get you one."

She went on to tell him that there was no Wi-Fi but she could get that installed if he would like to have it. That was one of the reasons she did like to come here when she needed to get away. There wasn't much 'modern' amenities, just a house with one TV, up to date appliances and electric. That was it. No internet and no phone.

"You know," she said when they made it inside and she had guided him to the couch and helped him to sit down, "I bet, when you get a bit more strength, you could incorporate the boat into your workout... which I can assume you can swim..." she told him in a teasing tone. "You just stay here and rest," she pointed down the hall, "the room is down the hall on the left. It has it's own bathroom so we have that covered. As you can see over there is the kitchen... and speaking of kitchen, I'm going to go get us some groceries and probably pick up some dinner... is there anything you want or don't want?"

 

[BeachBum25]

When Paige told him to not be afraid to lean on her because she was stronger than she looked, Michael stopped and looked at her. "Don't you dare try babying me Paige. That is what made me want to get out of the rehab center, they were babying me instead of pushing me. Don't you do that to me." Then, to make sure that Paige realized he was teasing her, Michael lightly bumped hips with her and gave her a wink.

Paige gave him the tour and Michael continued to be in awe of what she had here. "This is amazing. Listen, I am fine with being cut off from the outside world for a while. The only problem that I can see is that you might have to drag me back to civilization kicking and screaming when it is time for me to leave.

"I look at what you have here and I am amazed Paige. I can't believe that you don't just move here and find a job at the closest hospital. They would be lucky to have you and you could get to spend all of your time here. Hell, this place would even be great in the winter."

Michael sat down on the couch. "I would love to incorporate the boat into my routine, and yes, smartass, I can swim... at least I used to be able to until I ended up in the hospital, but I am sure I will get back to that."

"Yes, here is what I want.'' Reaching into his pocket, Michael pulled out his wallet and handed Paige his credit card. "I want you to get whatever you want and need to stock up your shelves and your refrigerator. I am not a picky eater, so, you get whatever you want. You might be my getaway driver, but you are not going to fund my time on the lamb."

He knew that Paige would resist, but he gave her a look that made it clear that he would not take no for an answer. "Be careful going to the store, and make sure that you are not gone too long, because I get rather paranoid when things don't happen in my perceived timeframe."

As Paige headed out, Michael's phone buzzed with a text. It was from an unknown number, but the message let him know exactly who it was. "Where you at Mikey. I stopped by and they said you were gone." Seamus obviously was up to something and wanted more information.

"We need to talk Mikey. I need more info about the reporter that was trying to talk with your doctor friend." This told Michael that Seamus was worried about tis reporter. He responded to Seamus. "Not sure who the guy was. I just know that he was being a pain and I had to send him on his way. That is all I know. I don't even know his name."

Nothing else came through from Seamus. Michael figured that there would be something on the news about the reporter being found dead, or that the reporter was missing, and at that point the reporter would never be found.

 

[zydrate]

As much as she was hesitant to take Michael's credit card, Paige did take it and put in her purse. She was soon on her way to get some much needed supplies. The house wasn't stocked up too much, just non perishables and bottles of water in the cabinets. For now, she would get the basics because her shoulder and arm were killing her. She'd also have to get some OTC meds for the pain she was in and she didn't have the worst of wounds, but Michael did and if he was hiding it, he was doing a very good job at it.

Her phone went off a few times and she just ignored it when she saw who it was from... that reporter. Oh well, he was going to be disappointed when she didn't call him and also, if he showed up at her apartment and found her not there? What then? Would he go to her parents house? He was searching for dirt on the family and well, Paige knew he wouldn't find any. Her father was a work horse and her mother was a simple stay at home wife who had no interest in working or doing volunteer work so... as for Paige? Yes, she was a doctor at one the states most leading hospitals but she had nothing to hide. Her record had to stay clean in order to be a doctor.

Once she finished up in town, she arrived home with some groceries to hold them out for the week and then after that, she would get some more as they would need to work out what was needed to help in their healing, such as vitamin supplements and proteins. Even though it was early evening, Paige picked up some Chinese food for dinner. She even had to get some things for herself seeing as she just upped and left without packing anything for herself.

When she got home, Michael was sleeping but he had immediately woke up when she came in, carrying some grocery bags. She was going to say something when he started to help but stopped. He wasn't a child and knew his limits. He wasn't her patient but she still felt responsible for him in the 'doctor' sense...

Once things were put away, she told Michael to sit at the counter bar and she would dish out their dinner. It really did smell good and she realized she was starving. As she set out the containers, so they could pick what they wanted, she got them some drinks (soda) and set them down.

"So, did you get a chance to look around a little more? You saw what I meant about no other intrusions here, just a TV... oh! and probably a radio... not sure." This didn't feel as formal as their date a couple of months back and that made Paige feel a lot more comfortable to relax. "Has the rehab center tried to call you?"

 

[BeachBum25]

While Paige was gone, Michael's phone buzzed several times. There was a missed call from the rehab center. He didn't listen to the voicemail. There were also messages from Seamus. He wanted to know where Michael was and what he was doing. Michael ignored the first several texts, but got progressively more annoyed with Seamus. Finally, after another inquiry from Seamus came through, Michael responded, "continuing my PT on my own. will be off the grid for a while. let you know when I get back." After hitting send, Michael turned his phone off. When Seamus took care of the reporter, Michael would be nowhere around and would not be able to be connected to what happened.

When Paige returned, Michael got up off the sofa and headed over to help her carry some of the items in. He was very limited in what he could carry and how fast he could move, but he was not going to let Paige do all of the work. Yes, it was a sexist belief that he needed to help the woman, but, no matter what, he was going to help in any way he could.

"I spent some time looking out at the lake from that big window over there. Just looking out had me mesmerized. I am not sure how long I stood there, but it was quite a while. I am perfectly fine with the peace and quiet here. The radio and television would only be distractions. Of course, you may get bored with me before too long."

Michael sat down on a stool in the kitchen. "The rehab place called. I didn't answer it. Also, I didn't listen to the voicemail. Actually, I turned my phone off, which, come to think of it wasn't a wise decision while you were out at the store. I promise that whenever you leave, I will turn my phone on. For now, however, it is off."

Picking at his food in the beginning, Michael did not think he was that hungry. Once he tasted the food, however, he had an appetite for more. "I haven't started doing anything yet, and this is already a better place for me to do rehab. I have much better company and the food is so much better." He smiled at Paige. "Thank you for going out on a limb for me Paige. I really appreciate it. Of course, you may regret it having to put up with me for all of this time."

 

[zydrate]

The food was delicious, probably because Paige was starving and she had wonderful company. "Stop saying that I'm putting up with you. I knew what I was doing and as long as it wasn't prison that I broke you out of, we'll be fine." She took a sip of her lemon water and looked thoughtful for a minute, "It's probably shocking to hear that I do believe in your environment playing a big part of one's healing. That and just being away from people sometimes is actually a good thing." They were quiet a few minutes, not an awkward silence but more just enjoying their food and relaxing, "You asked why I don't just come here and settle down?" She shrugged, "I would like to one day but right now... along with being contracted with the hospital, I really like the fast pace of the ER. The different situations and cases I get to see all the time. In way, I feel like a detective when a patient comes in with something unknown..." she laughed, "Sounds crazy huh?"

"I think tomorrow we should devise some sort of plan to work on getting better... for the both of us, that is." She finished quickly. "You can tell me how your therapist helped you and I can help you in that way?"

Once they were done, Paige just tossed everything in the trash since it was all take out containers and they had practically eaten everything she ordered. "I think you're going to have to tell me what to cook and such. I can cook some things but not as good as you." She had wanted to add 'when had that one date'.

"Did you see your room yet?" Michael had indicated he had not so Paige led him, pointing out that there was a laundry on the first floor as well as an office with just a desk and a lot of law books, "Grandpa was a lawyer and so was my grandmother.." she said nonchalantly as they passed the office, "The laundry is behind the kitchen...I guess I should have showed you that first.." She led him into the only downstairs bedroom and pointed out things, "Everything is clean but if you want fresh sheets, I can get that for you... see, there's a bathroom right over there, again, everything should be stocked, if you need another blanket, there's one in the closet and look, you even have a small balcony..."

Stopping she blushed, "Sorry... do you have any questions?"

 

[BeachBum25]

"It may not have been an actual prison, but it certainly felt like one to me. I am not the kind of person that likes to be cooped up like that. I have to admit, I said it jokingly when I asked you to break me out, but I must admit that I am very happy you were willing to go for it."

The food was delicious. Michael wasn't sure whether it tasted so good because of the food that he had at the rehab center, or if it was really that good, but it didn't matter. He enjoyed it and ate slowly, savoring every bite. He listened as Paige talked about enjoying the fast pace of the city hospital emergency room and how she felt like a detective trying to diagnose unknown issues. "I don't think that is crazy at all, Paige. There is nothing crazy about liking a challenge and enjoying the satisfaction of overcoming that challenge."

After taking a few more bites of the food, Michael looked at Paige. "I think that doing some of the exercises they had me doing at the rehab place will be good for your shoulder, also. What I think would be even better was doing our rehab out on the dock... or at least outside looking toward the lake...... weather permitting, of course. However, I am not afraid of a little rain." He laughed a little. "So, tomorrow, we can sit down and create our plan on how we will be each other's physical therapist."

Then, Paige went on a long rant about telling her how to cook, the bedroom that he would be using, the laundry, the office, sheets, the bathroom, blankets, and the balcony. "Whoa, Paige, relax. I did not come here with you for you to have to be a combination hotel concierge, housekeeping, front desk manager. Yes, I am a guest in your house, but I do not need you to make a fuss over me. I can manage, and if I need something that I can't find on my own, I will definitely ask you. However, I don't want you feeling like you have to worry about things and get things for me and show me around. I would like for you to concentrate on getting better. I think that we can get better together here."

"Oh, and as for cooking... I will not tell you how to cook, but I would be happy to cook with you and you can see what I do and we can prepare all of the meals together. The best way to learn and get better with cooking is to actually do it and experiment with it. I think we can work that out and create some great meals together. That will also help with our recoveries."

Michael got up from the table to help with the clean up. It wasn't easy, but he was able to contribute. One thing he refused to be was a burden. He was going to do whatever he could to help, after all, Paige was recovering from a bullet wound also.

After everything was cleaned and put away, Michael slowly walked over to Paige and stood next to her. "Can we sit outside and watch the sunset?"

 

[zydrate]

He asked if they could watch the sunset and that made Paige genuinely smile, "Of course." She walked beside him, insisting she wasn't tending him, just there in case... "We're not going to have to get you some sexy home aide to come help you, are we? Although I have a feeling you'll like that a little too much." She said, teasing him as they sat down on the chairs on the deck.

Usually there were a lot of bugs flying around but since it was starting to get a little too cool for them, she and Michael were left alone to enjoy the sunset. There were no sounds of the city, just the sound of nature. The waves in the water hitting the shore... it really was relaxing and Paige closed her eyes for a few minutes, taking it all in. She had forgotten how peaceful it was out here.

One thing was for sure is that she didn't want to talk about her father or mother... or the campaign. All that wasn't her business any more...well, at least right now. She knew her father wouldn't call or come here. He hated coming here and practically wrote it off as knowing about it. And her mother? Forget it. She didn't like being out in 'the sticks' as she preferred to call it.

"Tell me about your time in the military... what did you do exactly?" She was curious and hoped it wasn't a sore spot for him.

Listening to him, not daring to ask anything just yet, Paige was intrigued with all he had accomplished while there. She vaguely remembered a military recruiter coming down to her high school and man, did her dad lose it. So Paige had hinted she just might join only to get a rise out of her father.

Her arm and shoulder started to hurt but she ignored it as she listened to him talking. This was a more relaxing situation than when they had their one and only date. A date that Paige still didn't like how things had turned out. Then again, if things had worked out, would they have been here now? Both injured and recovering? She doubted it.

 

[BeachBum25]

As they walked out to the deck, Paige asked him about getting a sexy home health aide to help him. Michael smiled at her. "Why would I need a sexy home health aid when I have a beautiful doctor with me already?" They sat on the deck as the sun set, and Michael felt a calmness settle over him. He didn't care about anything in that moment.

"The military was kind of a mixed bag for me. When I enlisted, I did it because I did not want my mother taking on any debt to put me through school, and I certainly didn't want that debt either. I was raised by a single mom who worked her ass off to make ends meet. She wanted me to be a doctor. I could not see either of us taking on the debt to make that happen, so off I went to the Marine Corp. It might not have been the right reason for joining, but it was my reason."

He took a deep breath and sighed. "I did three tours in Afghanistan. The last two tours I did as a member of a Special Ops unit. During all three tours, I see the best of people, and I saw the worst of them. Some of the civilians were the nicest people who were just trying to survive. It reminded me a little of my life growing up. Although, conditions for them were worse than for me and my mother. As I was preparing to return from my second tour, I was notified that my mother had been killed. She was collateral damage in a drive-by shooting involving members of two rival gangs. I came home a couple days early, buried mom, and asked to be sent back to Afghanistan as soon as possible. I was afraid that I would go hunting for the people that were involved in my mom's death."

Pausing for a second, Michael stared at the setting sun... using it to help him relax. "They caught several of the actors that were involved. Fortunately, I had to return to base, which was a good thing in two ways. One, I didn't have an opportunity to extract any revenge on them and get my self in trouble and end up in prison. Two, I was nowhere near them when they were all ambushed when they got out on bail. I know who did it, but I had nothing to do with it. There is a group of people from my old neighborhood.. some of them I used to hang around with... that don't take kindly to anyone messing with people from the neighborhood. Rumor is they were the ones who ambushed the murderers. Anyway, I was far away and getting ready to head back to Afghanistan."

Shaking his head, Michael continued. "I'm sorry Paige. That is a whole lot more than you asked about. My third tour in Afghanistan was the wildest. We were in areas that were full of hostiles and we had no other support. We infiltrated a couple of Taliban strongholds and were able to eliminate some high level military leaders. Of course, we also suffered some losses. It was not a fun time. After the third tour, I decided it was time to get out, and become one of Boston's finest... and the rest is history."

Michael looked over at Paige. She looked like she might be in a little pain. "Are you alright Paige? You look like you might be in some pain. Would you rather go back inside?"

 

[zydrate]

Paige listened intently. She didn't dare interrupt Michael as he told his story. She had wanted to say she felt sorry for him but she knew he didn't want her pity. She wished she could say she understood but she couldn't. It sounded like he and his mother were close. A closeness she never had with her mother or even her father. The only people she felt that with was her grandparents.

"No need to apologize Michael.." she winced and shook her head, "Just a little throbbing, I'm fine. But what about you? How are you feeling?"

Maybe they were both lying to each other but then again, maybe not. "When you are able to walk a greater distance, I will show you around more, go into town, show you around there. It's a bit of a touristy town but its still cute and it has all the essentials. Around October, there are hunters around that think they can get away with trespassing but it's just something to deal with. The Sheriff and his family were good friends with my grandfather also. They check on the place from time to time."

"Did you want to go in? It's been quite an eventful day for you...you know, escaping from prison and all..." she said, teasing him.

 

[BeachBum25]

"I am actually feeling great. The thing about being here Paige is that I am not stuck in a room constantly focused on my pain and on my rehabilitation. Here, I am surrounded by nature. It is a beautiful location and I am here with someone that is interesting to talk to and isn't constantly nagging me to work on getting better." He looked over at Paige. "Not yet, she isn't, anyway."

He listened as Paige talked about eventually going into town, and then talked about the hunters encroaching on the land. "Maybe I should have you talk to the Sheriff and see if he can use an extra hand. I think I have pretty good credentials. Of course, I would have to find a place to live out here, and I am sure there is nothing that I can afford that is amazing as your place is Paige."

"We can go in if you want. Yes, it has been an eventful day. The escape from prison was the highlight of the day. Of course, you are not innocent in that ordeal. After all, I was just joking, you developed the plan and helped to execute it and get me out of there."

They went back inside. Michael moved slowly, but it felt really, really good. It was exercise that wasn't formalized and rigid. It was moving at his own pace; a pace that was probably quicker than he should have been moving at. The fresh air and the surroundings were not only good for his physical health. They were good for his mental health, as well.

As Michael sat down, he felt the phone vibrate in his pocket. He took it out and looked at the message. It was from Seamus. "Hey Mick, if anybody asks, I was with you all afternoon." Michael shook his head. He responded, "That won't work. I was not alone and the person I am with will never agree to say you were with us."

Michael knew that Paige would be wondering who he was texting. "The rehab place won't give up. They want me to come back. They say they are going to notify the city doctor if I don't return. I told them that I am under the direct supervision of a high quality physician, so, they can tattletale to whomever they want."

Yes, he lied to her, but he couldn't tell Paige what Seamus was asking. He also didn't want Paige to be able to put anything together about his relationship with Seamus.

 

[zydrate]

He talked about her helping him get out of the rehab center and she stood as she gestured in the general direction of the city, "Well, I can always take you back if you want.." she told him, her tone monotone so as to make him wonder if she was serious or not. Of course she wasn't serious and she knew he knew that.

As they walked inside, Paige kept talking, "I can always talk to the sheriff for you, put a good word for you." She plopped down on one of the 3 couches and sighed, "Even though its still early, I'm exhausted." She knew she had done a lot today so she took that time to rest a bit. They made a little more small talk and just sat in comfortable silence for a while longer.

After a bit, Paige sat up and tried not to yawn. It was then she realized that Michael had fallen asleep. She didn't have the heart to wake him so she took a blanket from one of the couches and covered him with it. She headed upstairs and got ready for bed...

***
The next morning, Paige had woken up to the smell of coffee. She sat up in bed and looked at the time... it was after 8am. Had she really sleep that long? Getting up, she headed downstairs and saw Michael in the kitchen moving slowly but surely. "Good morning," she told him as she entered and took a seat at the counter bar as he placed a cup of coffee in front of her.

She looked up at him and smiled, still a bit drowsy as she was not really a morning person, "Hey, how did you sleep? Did you make it to bed?"

 

[BeachBum25]

It was so relaxing and enjoyable spending time with Paige. She was easy to talk with and she was incredibly easy on the eyes. Michael liked that she had a sense of humor and was able to dish it out a little. Paige mentioned that she would talk to the Sheriff if he wanted. He wondered if he would like working out here. He certainly would enjoy living out here, that he was certain of.

Watching as Paige sat on the sofa, he smiled at her. "You had a big day. You broke me out of rehab and you have had to entertain me in this beautiful house; all of that while still recuperating from your own injuries. I can't thank you enough Paige; you went above and beyond for me."

Sitting back on the sofa, Michael found a comfortable position while they talked. Once the silence set in, he fell asleep. It was a sound sleep and, until he woke up in the morning, he had no idea that Paige had covered him with a blanket.

Michael slept through the night in the sitting position. Normally, he would have thought that was an awkward, uncomfortable position for sleep, but for the first time in quite a while, he had a great night sleep. The sun shining through the window onto his face woke Michael up. Moving slowly, he readjusted himself on the sofa. Sitting there, Michael felt better than he had felt on any day since the shooting... not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. Yes, this was the right place for him to rehab.

Getting up from the sofa, Michael headed to the kitchen. He began the search for coffee. Paige had to have some. She had a coffee maker on the counter, so, she had to have coffee somewhere. Quietly, he looked through cabinets until he found coffee and coffee filters. "Success." He put the coffee on and began to look for pans. He was not going to be a burden... well, any more of one than he already was. He was going to do whatever he could to pull his own weight.

As he went to the refrigerator, he heard Paige behind him. Slowly turning around, Michael smiled at his hostess. "Good Morning Paige. Coffee is almost ready and I was just getting ready to start breakfast. I do not normally eat a big breakfast, but being in the hospital and rehab place, I became accustomed to having breakfast every morning...although it was never all that good."

Moving over to pour coffee for each of them, Michael watched Paige take a seat at the counter. "I slept better last night than I have in a long time. No, I didn't make it to bed. I stayed right where you left me and I woke up relaxed and feeling better than I have in quite a while."

Carrying the coffee over to Paige, Michael smiled at her. "Instead of having breakfast right away, would you mind if we took our coffee and walked out onto the dock and enjoyed some fresh air. We could even do some of our exercises.. you know... do some rehab."