CHAPTER TEN
Sam was kneeling beside Malcolm Daniels, and looking up he could see the secret service pushing the President back into the school and out of sight. Shaking his head, Sam stared at Malcolm, a small smile on his face as Malcolm looked back at him. "Is the President okay?" Malcolm whispered.
"Yes thanks to you, I don't know how you knew, but your actions saved his life." Sam answered. "Now no more talking, the ambulance will be here in a few minutes."
"Yeah, damn I hurt."
"I bet you do." Sam laughed.
"It's not funny dude."
"No it isn't, but at least you're alive."
"Yeah, well someone would be pissed if I was to get killed."
"As if I am not already, what were you thinking Malcolm?" Patrick asked as he knelt beside his boyfriend.
"I wasn't, I just reacted. Watch over my bros until I get home would you?"
"You have to ask? I thought it was a given that I would look after them." Patrick said with a grin.
"I may not have said it before, Patrick, but I love you."
"I love you too silly."
Inside the school the President was fuming. He looked at the director for the Secret Service before he said anything. "Tell me who is responsible for security of this place?" Ben asked.
"I am sir, and I don't know how anyone could get through, or even close enough to take a shot at you." Dusty stated.
"Sir." Donnie interrupted. "I don't think they were after you. If they were, they could have done it before you even said your first word. I believe that they were after Malcolm."
"It doesn't matter who they were after, that person should not have even been able to get in the area. I want the person found and brought to Justice."
"Sir we already have the body. It looks like he was shot just after he fired his rifle."
"What do you mean you have a body, and if you do, then who killed him, I want answers and I want them by the end of the day." Ben snapped.
"We will do our best sir, and it was the mall security that found the body on the roof."
"I know you will I am sorry I snapped. How is Young Mr. Daniels?"
"He is alive, hurting a lot. The EMT's just took off with him."
"Well I want the best for him, that young man saved my life."
"He will get it sir, and sir I would like to have three teams of troopers watching his room."
"NO, I want some Marines surrounding that place. You can have your agents and troopers inside."
"Very good sir, but you will have to make the call to whoever it is that needs to be informed, because as an agent I can't order that."
"I know, and will I get them on their way now. Ace, I want to know what hospital they took Mr. Daniels too."
"I will ask Sargent Johnson." Ace answered.
"Isn't he the one you recommended as the head of the S.C.U?" Ben asked.
"Yes sir, he is."
"I want to talk to him."
"I will go and get him sir."
Just after Malcolm had been taken away, Patrick stood staring at the spot for a minute, before turning to the crowd and grabbing the microphone. "Friends, ladies and gentlemen, today was supposed to be a day for us all to be happy.
Today some of you got to meet the President in person, while others of you got to hear him start to speak. Though he had just said a few words before this happened, what I do know is that he was going to introduce Malcolm, and get Malcolm to say the one thing we all have waited for eighteen months to hear, but now, as you know Malcolm cannot say what he wanted to.
Before I read his speech to you, I want the people who are responsible for this tragedy to know, that even if Malcolm doesn't pull through this time, I will personally spend the rest of my life hunting you down, bringing you to justice, and making sure that you get the most severe punishment there is.
Malcolm has done nothing to deserve the things that have happened to him, in fact he has gone out of his way to help each and every student across this nation. It is the people who wish to steal from him, people that want to take what is rightfully his, that have done this to him. I promise you this, that justice will win in this case, and I will lead the way. Patrick yelled angrily.
Now as for what Malcolm was going to say it is easy. So let me read to you his notes. "My friends and fellow students, I thank you for your support, I thank you for standing with us. You the students, my friends have made me proud to stand up and fight for you, to force our governments to push through the changes that we have asked for. Today eighteen months later, we are there, we have what we were asking for. Today I stand here before you hopefully for the last time, unless it is to go for one of the school offices, which I don't want. So please as a final rally cry, I ask for a rousing WE DO THIS, before I end my speech."
Patrick stood at the Dias, tears in his eyes, as everyone stood and hollered. The applause was deafening which brought more tears to Patrick. The President, who had stopped just inside the front doors listened to what Patrick was saying, and he too had tears in his eyes, and now was more determined than ever that Malcolm would get only the best. "Ace find out which hospital they took the young man to, then make it possible for me to visit, that isn't a request."
"Yes sir I will find out right away."
Ace had just about to step out the front door, when he heard a loud wail come out of Aaron. Walking over to him Ace picked the little guy up and hugged him. "Hush Aaron, everything will be fine." Ace whispered.
"Nu-uh, my bover been hurt again." Aaron cried as he sucked on his thumb.
"Yes he was, but he is strong and will make it, you just have to be there for him, let him know that you love him."
"Can we go see him please?" Aaron asked through his sobs.
"I think that we can do that, I know that the President wants to see him, so how would you like to go with him?"
"Uh-huh, I like him, he's fun." Aaron said as he tried to smile.
"Little guy, my dad's not fun, he's an oldie and oldies don't knows what fun is." Bennie said as he slid up beside Ace and Zeke.
"I'll oldie you." Ace said with a smirk.
Sam, Liza, Casey, and a dozen men and women from the police, state troopers and secret service started to scour the neighborhood, looking for any sign of the shooter. Sure they had one dead person, but whoever killed him was still out there and a risk to society
Jordan Martin, having shot Marshall and gotten off the roof, walked over and managed to joined the crowd at the school, blending in and disappearing. Jordan had just made it into the crowd, when the mall security broke out onto the roof of the mall. The mall security slowly walked around the roof and had just reached the area where Maurice and Jordan had be when they all saw the body. The rifle was leaning against the parapet and they could see a small pistol beside the body.
With this discovery, the people stepped back and talked for a minute, before one of the men left and went looking for the police. Once the police saw the body the sealed off the mall and brought in the crime scene techs.
Those on the roof of the mall were standing waiting for the techs and all were listening to Patrick's speech. One officer made the comment. "That is one angry young man." All the others that were with him agreed.
Kurt Bronson who had been sitting in the very front of the crowd had watched everything. He had seen Malcolm stand then rush towards the President. He watched as Malcolm started falling, then came the sound of the gunshot. Kurt jumped to his feet screaming. He heard the gasps coming from the crowd. Standing there Kurt felt tears falling, as he saw his friend laying there not moving. When he saw the Ambulance leave and just after listening to Patrick's words, he slowly started walking away from the school, but he wasn't walking back home, no he was heading downtown, and towards the hospital, if Malcolm could stand up for him and others like him, he would stand outside and have a vigil for Malcolm.
Stopping at a small store Kurt went on and bought all the large white candles they had. He was about to pay for them when the owner stopped him. "Young man, I think I know why you want these, though I could not be there this morning I did watch what happened. Take these candles and please light one for my family and me, and know that our prayers are with the Mr. Daniels and his family in this time of need."
"Thank you sir, may you be blessed for this." Kurt said as he took the bag and walked out. Kurt really hadn't been paying attention to what was happening behind him when he first walked away from the school, but now as he stepped out of the store, he noticed that not only were other students there waiting for him, they had their families with them.
Taking the lead Kurt walked over to the hospital, making sure not to block the entrances the people formed a semicircle each one taking a candle and lighting before standing silently in prayer. Inside the hospital Malcolm was in surgery, and the doctors and nurses that were in the lobby just stood and watched as the crowd formed and were stunned by the silence. Malcolm had no idea as to what was happening. For Malcolm the world was a black hole.
Tony was sitting with the vice President, Jamie, Janet and her twins watching the President walk out of the school. Then the chaos happened. Seeing Malcolm laying there not moving brought tears to Tony and Jamie's eyes. The vice President wasn't doing much better at hiding his tears.
All through the White House and federal building, the noise of voices stopped, Children all across the nation gasped as they all saw Malcolm fall.
As Tony was drying his eyes he remembered the letter and Malcolm's will that he had in his jacket. Pulling out the letter Tony ripped it open and slowly read.
Dear Uncle Tony:
If you are reading this then I am either dead or close to it. Over the past little while you have come to know that I always do what I feel is right and today is no different. Don't ask me why, or how I know this, but I felt that something bad was going to happen, and I guess it did.
I can't and don't want to lose Patrick, he is the rope I cling to. I love him more than life itself.
Now we both know that I am supposed to be wearing my vest, but I gave it to Patrick, his life means more than mine. You cannot be mad at him, as it was my choice, so if you're upset with anyone it should be me.
Should I make it through this then you can tear me apart. My sensei always said I was smart, well I guess this time I proved him wrong.
Forgiveness comes from the heart, and I hope that you can forgive me for doing what I did. Please take care of my family, and I hope that one day you become the great father that I know you are.
When Tony had finished reading the letter he handed it to Matt. "That boy is so unselfish, he puts other's lives above his, I want to kick his butt, but at the same time I want to hug him. He makes me feel inadequate as a parent, and as a friend." Tony whispered.
"That is where you are wrong Tony." Matt whispered back. "Malcolm is strong minded, and he made a choice that even as a parent I am sure you would have made. Remember the bible say that no greater love does one have than to give up his life for another. You as a parent would sacrifice yourself for your son, you would even do it for Malcolm and his family. To me Tony that is true love and strength."
"Yeah Tony, you can't feel bad about this, if I know Malcolm he is kicking himself right now, and then Patrick will be doing it next. So chill. Matt, Tony, I would like to head back to Naples and visit Malcolm and his family, let them know that I am there for support." Jamie stated.
Tony really wasn't listening closely to what Jamie was saying. He was too busy reading both the letter and Malcolm's will.
"You know Matt, Malcolm told me before I left, that he felt something was going to happen. I brushed it off as just feelings, I guess I shouldn't have."
"Tony, you can't blame yourself for this. You are beating yourself up over nothing you could control. Now I am sure that the police will have someone in custody very soon." Matt answered.
"Tony, I know we just met but you are a fine gentleman," Janet started. "You are great with the twins, and your own son, I know is proud of you. I can see how this bothers you, but the best thing you can do for this Malcolm lad is be there with him, both physically and emotionally. Now stop beating yourself up and go to the boy. We will be here waiting for you when you get back."
"Yes Tony, let's get going, Malcolm needs his friends around him right now." Jamie said as he gave Tony a hug.
"Jamie, would you please stop for a minute. I know we all want to see Malcolm, but there is something you need to know."
"What, are you going to tell me that you're my dad? I already knew that." Giggling Jamie looked at Matt. "Some old folks shouldn't walk around talking where little ears can hear them."
"I see. So you know?"
"Yes, and it is going to take some time to adjust to that fact. I do have questions, but they can wait until later. Matt, sir, can you get us a ride down to Naples?" Jamie asked.
"I can do that, when do you want to leave?"
"Right now."
"You need to pack some clothes, and Tony has to go to his hotel and get his, so what do you say I get the plane ready for two o'clock?"
"That would work for me sir, I don't know if Jamie here will be ready by then, he seems to move slowly in his young age." Tony laughed.
"You got that right." Matt snickered.
"Oh I will get you two." Jamie laughed.
Flying into Naples, Tony and Jamie were met by Donnie who had been called and told that they were coming back. When everyone was back in the car and Donnie was driving to the hospital, Tony finally broke the silence. "How is he?'
"The doctor have done their best. They say that the next forty eight hours will tell."
"That bad?"
"Yes. Security is really tight around the hospital, those wishing to see Malcolm have to be placed on a list. That is the orders from the President. He also has marines around the place, so be careful."
"What do you think his chances are?" Jamie asked from the back seat.
"Jamie, we all know that Malcolm is a fighter, but this could be one fight he might lose. I will not lie to you, Malcolm is in very serious condition."
"Did they get the person who did this?"
"There were two shots that were heard. The police found the body of one, but whoever else did some shooting, the police are still searching for."
At the hospital Jamie, left Tony and Donnie and walked over to the Daniels family, not seeing Patrick with them he frowned until he looked into Malcolm's room and saw Patrick sitting beside the bed. Quietly walking in, he stopped at the foot of Malcolm's bed. "Patrick I am sorry this happened."
"Thanks dude, but he will be okay but whoever did this had better hide." Patrick answered as his tears started to fall again. "Hey he will make it, think positive."
"I am trying to, but I am also so fucking mad."
"I bet you are. Let's get Malcolm better, then we can work on finding these bastards."
"You're right."
Leaving Patrick sitting there beside Malcolm, Jamie walked over to the Daniels family, Jamie shook Richard's hand and then gave Aaron a hug and kiss on the cheek. "Be strong little man." Jamie whispered before turning and looking at Zeke. Picking him up Jamie hugged Zeke tightly." I missed you lots." He whispered.
"I missed you too." Zeke said giving Jamie a kiss on the nose. "You staying for a while?"
"Yes, Dad, I mean Tony, said I can move back into my old house, but I still have to have someone living with me. Now I want to find out about Ian, do you think I can let you go for a while?"
"Nope." Zeke giggled.
Setting Zeke back onto his feet, Jamie guided him back to where Richard and Aaron were seated. "Sir I will be right back, I would like a chance to say hello to Malcolm, even though he might not know that I am here."
"Oh I think he knows we are here, it just that his mind is slowly trying to come back to us." Richard said.
"Sir I am sorry this happened, I would gladly trade him places, he doesn't deserve this."
"No son, he doesn't, and nor do you, you both have had enough heart aches to last a life time. I doubt that either of you have any idea what it means to be a teen, out having fun, or just being boys. The one thing though, is that everything that has happened isn't yours or Malcolm's fault."
"Still I wish it was me instead of Malcolm."
For Malcolm, he knew nothing except blackness, for him it was like swimming in a lake and getting nowhere. He thought he could see a shimmer of light, or hear someone calling him, but none of it registered. Malcolm was ready to give up and sink into the darkness, but his mind wouldn't let him. It kept telling him that he had more to do. Patrick was sitting beside Malcolm and could hear the steady thumbing of the oxygen pump, along with the beep beep of the heart monitor. Patrick was tired, he wanted to sleep, but until Malcolm woke up he wasn't going to leave his side.
Through tired eyes, he saw Tony and Jamie walk in. He heard Jamie's words to him, but was too tired to understand them. Tony stood beside him and placed a hand on his shoulder gently squeezing. "Patrick you need to rest, you won't do Malcolm any good if you're a walking zombie. I promise you that I won't leave him alone, but you rest if anything changes I will get you." Tony whispered.
"I can't leave him Tony, I want him to know that I am here for him." Patrick whispered back.
"He knows you're here, but even he would tell you to rest. I tell you what, I will talk to the nurse and see if they can let you sleep in the other bed."
"You promise not to leave?"
"You have my word. Now go get some sleep."
"Okay just a few hours."
With Patrick resting, Tony took over watching Malcolm. Richard had taken the two little guys home, and promised to be back later that night. When Richard and the boys walked out of the hospital they were greeted by parents and students, all standing silently watching. Kurt Bronson sitting in front of everyone stood when he saw the family come out. "Mr. Daniels," Kurt softly called out. "Please accept our prayers and best wishes for Malcolm, and know that we are here to support him and your family in this time."
"Thank you, young man, my family appreciates this, and I am sure that Malcolm does also."
"How is he doing sir?" Another student asked.
"I really can't say, all I know is that he is unconscious, the doctors are saying that he will make it, but it will be the next 40 hours that will tell us."
"Well you have our prayers, I think you have the whole nation praying for Malcolm right now."
"Again I thank you all, now I have to get these two home, Bless you all and again we thank you."
Leaving the crowd, Richard and his two boys left the hospital and drove home. When the three entered the house, they found papa Daniels in the front room, tears streaking his face and his hands clutching the old worn out bible that had belonged to his wife. "I pray, Richard that Malcolm makes it, but if he doesn't I know that Elsie will be there to greet him with open arms." Papa sobbed.
"Dad, Malcolm will make it, I have to believe that with all my heart."
"I know son, and I believe it also, your son is strong, just like Marcus was, I wish I had never turned on him."
"Dad, I know that Marcus has forgiven us, we just have to learn to forgive ourselves, and that is a hard thing to do."
"You're right, now how are the little ones?"
"They are scared, worried, upset, heck I can't imagine what is going through their little heads right now."
"Just be ready for anything Richard, show them love and be there for them, especially Aaron, he might not understand what is really going on, but he could end up having bad dreams."
"I know, the next few days are going to be hell for all of us."
"I'll get some soup going, I doubt that any of us are all that hungry, I know I can't eat right now, but we do need something."
Richard and the boys were sitting in the front room watching the news as it played over and over again the shooting at the school. Aaron was curled up tight to Richard and Zeke was just staring at the screen. The three jumped when Marsten stuck his head in. "Sir, the President is here to see you." Marsten whispered.
"Please show him in."
Standing Richard waited for the President to come in. Zeke and Aaron stayed seated both staring at their feet. Zeke had his arm around Aaron cuddling him, when Ben and his son walked in. "Mr. President, welcome to my home." Richard said.
"Thank you and please this is informal so call me Ben." Ben asked.
Bennie had gone over and sat with Zeke and Aaron and soon had Aaron on his lap crying and sucking his thumb. Zeke had moved so he was snuggled tight to Bennie's side. "Guys, Malcolm is going to be okay." Bennie whispered.
As Bennie was talking with the boys, Richard, his dad and Ben went into the kitchen. "Mr. Daniels." Ben started the laughed when both men answered him. "I want to tell you how sorry I am that Malcolm got hurt. His act saved my life, but at the cost of almost losing his, and there is no way that I can ever repay that." Ben said while trying to hold his tears in.
"Mr. President, Ben, Thank you. I don't know what Malcolm was thinking, but his unselfish acts over the past two years have continually left me in awe. What he did today, well there are no words that come to my mind. All I know is that after today Malcolm will never be the same boy he was."
"You're right, what he does after this is up to him, but if I know that young man, he will find another fight and win it."
"Don't even say that, I just want Malcolm to have a normal life."
"That left him when this strike started. Now other than coming here to tell you how sorry I am, I was wondering if and when Malcolm gets well that you all come to the White House for a week?"
"Well sir, I would like to say yes to that, but until Malcolm is better I can't answer.
Ben was going to say more when his phone chirped. "This is the President."
"Mr. President this is DCI Longston, is it true that the Daniels boy is dead?" Longston asked.
"Mr. Longston, I have not heard anything on how Mr. Daniels is doing, may I ask why you are inquiring." Ben asked.
"Well sir, if it is true then we have to get into his company and get that box that they are making for the Armed forces." Longston answered.
"I see, well I will be back in Washington tonight, so let's meet in the morning and discuss this."
"Very good sir." Longston lied.
The President and his son spent an hour with the Daniels family just talking and comforting the two boys. When it came time for the President to leave he gave both Zeke and Aaron a hug. "I promise you two that your brother will get the best care, and he will be back playing with you soon." Ben stated.
"Uh-huh." Was all Aaron could say.
Dinner was subdued, the boys glancing at Malcolm's chair once in a while. Aaron shared a shower that night with Zeke and the two climbed into Zeke's bed and just held each other as the slipped off to sleep. Richard couldn't sleep, he sat in the front room, the lights low. He wanted to know just what everyone wanted from his son, he wanted to know why he was targeted. As he sat there thinking of his son Richard just started to cry. The tears he had held back when his sons were with him just flowed.
The next morning when the newspapers hit his front door, Richard was scared to even look at them, he knew that they would show the events from the day before. He was just about to go get them when Marsten came in holding them. "Sir, I have your papers, and the news people are out front. I think they wish to speak with you, I have asked that they let you be for now, but you know how it is with those people."
"Thank you Mr. Marsten, and yes I know how news people can be, but I really do think I should say something to them, let them know that we are happy for their support, but also let them know that right now my boys and I need some time alone."
"I think that might be a good idea, just let me get Real and Godson and maybe Fairweather, that way you are protected."
"You really think that I am in danger?"
"Sir, your eldest son lays in the hospital, someone targeted him, so yes sir in my opinion you could be next, besides the boss did say to protect this house and family."
"I see, well then I guess you have to follow orders." Richard said with a smile that he didn't feel.
"Yes sir."
With security surrounding him Richard stepped out onto the driveway. He could see about four news vans sitting on the street in front of his house, and many other people milling around. When the people saw Richard they all started clamoring for his attention. Richard just stood there for a minute before holding up his hands and asking for silence. "Ladies and gentlemen, please this is not the time for a thousand questions. I have a short statement and that will be all I won't be answering questions today. First I would like to thank you all for the support that you have shown my son Malcolm and his friends through these past hectic months. I can tell you that I am very proud of what my son has accomplished in his short life so far, and I can see greater things for him in the future. I ask that right now during this time of worry that you allow my family the time it needs to be there for him, I also ask that you allow us the privacy to heal our hearts and minds. Thank you and I wish you all a great day."
Turning Richard walked back into the house, closing the door he went to the front room and sat on his couch and broke down and cried, that was where his dad found him. Sitting beside his son Papa Daniels just reached out and wrapped his arm around him, holding him gently. "Richard everything will be okay." Papa whispered. "Malcolm is a fighter and won't let these people win. We all have to be strong for him."
"I know dad, but he has gone through hell for 18 months, I just wish I knew why. I know it just can't be over this strike, there has to be something behind it. Something the police and Secret Service aren't telling us." Richard stated.
"I know son, but until Malcolm gets better and the police find the people we are always going to be lost."
"You're right, but I think it is time that we really started to look on our own."
"No son, let the police handle it, you have three boys to raise and you know that I can't do it, I won't be around long enough to see them graduate."
"Don't say that dad, you will see them do that. Those boys love you and I know you love them.
"Yes son I do love them. Now enough of this depressing talk what shall we have for lunch?"
"Let's make some grilled cheese and tomato sandwiches for the boys."
"Sounds good, even I could go for a couple."
When lunch was ready, Richard called Zeke and Aaron. The two boys slowly wandered into the dining room and nibbled at their sandwiches. Both boys had been in their room cuddled together and crying. Richard could tell that when he saw the boys had red eyes. Papa had seen this also and walked over and picking up Aaron sat him on his lap. No sooner had he done that than Aaron was crying again. Zeke was trying hard to hold his tears, but they too were soon running down his cheeks. "Dad?" Zeke called out between sobs. "Can we go back and see Malcolm?"
"I think that would be a wonderful idea, but I also think you two should get some rest, so how about you both nap for a couple of hours and then we can go."
"Okay." Zeke mumbled not really happy.
As promised Richard took the boys back to the hospital right after they had dinner. This time Papa went with them as he wanted to see that Malcolm was going to be okay.
For three days Malcolm floated in darkness, for him a pool of blackness that seemed to never end. As Malcolm lay there, with machines, nurses and doctors coming and going all the time, Patrick stayed by his side. Sleeping a few hours at a time, while either Malcolm's family or Tony was sitting beside his bed. The morning of the fourth day Tony walked into Malcolm's room and looked at Patrick. "Young man, I would suggest that you go home and get a shower and maybe a change of clothes. You are starting to look worn out." Tony said softly.
"I can't leave him, I want to be here for when he wakes up. He needs me." Patrick answered.
"Yes he does need you, now more than ever, but you don't want him to wake up to stinky dirty boy do you." Tony said with a smile.
"No, but I don't want him to be alone either."
"He won't be alone, I promise you that I will stay with him until either his dad or you get here."
"You promise?"
"Yes I do, now go."
"Okay, but I won't be long."
After Patrick had left, Tony sat in the recliner and started going over everything he had and knew about Marcus Daniels. With the help of the Naples police and his boss in Washington, Tony had gotten some old school year books and was going through them. He had found pictures of Stan Wiley and Maurice Marshall, but what threw him off was the group photo of Wiley with Senator Sam Morrison, Danvers and Margaret Martin. Now Tony knew who MMJ was, all he had to do now was gather the evidence to arrest her.
Tony was still going over everything when Malcolm's family walked in. Aaron quickly went to Malcolm's bed and gently crawled into it. Everyone had gotten settled into seats when Patrick came back looking a bit fresher. Zeke had just sat on Patrick's lap when Malcolm's doctor came in.
Dr. Lei had been with Malcolm every time he had been shot and had grown fond of the lad. Today he was going to start waking Malcolm, but he wanted to let the family know this and what not expect. Seeing everyone there, Dr. Lei just smiled. "Mr. Daniels, I am glad you are here. I wanted to tell you that we will be starting to wake Malcolm, but you must be warned, he will be in a lot of pain for a while as his body heals. The another thing you must know is that for the first couple of days he will sleep a lot, that isn't something we are doing, it is his body. Right now, the more he sleeps the better it will be for him." Lei stated clearly.
"Okay, now we know that. Is there anything else we should know or do?" Richard asked.
"Yes, be here for him, but most importantly is that he stay calm and relaxed. If he gets too excited, or starts moving around before we tell him he can, he could do more damage." Lei remarked.
Tony who had been listening heard something in the doctor's voice that told him the Lei was being something from the family. Waiting outside thee room Tony cornered the doctor as soon as he walked out. "Dr. Lei I heard what you said to the Daniel family, but I also heard something else. You didn't tell them everything did you?"
"No sir I didn't. I don't think they needed to have more to worry about. Right now we need to get Malcolm's strength back before we even think of anything else."
"What didn't you tell them?"
"There is the possibility that Malcolm could be paralyzed."
"How it that possible, he was only shot once?"
"That is what we first thought also, but we found a second bullet pushing against his spine."
"Who did you give the bullets to?"
"Sgt. Johnson of the police force. Why?"
"That is okay, I will talk with him and get his report."
"Listen I know you just be part of the family, but that boy in there is special. I have looked after him for a long time, so anything you do had better be for his good." Lei snarled in a whisper.
"Don't worry Dr. that young man is special to millions so anything I do is for his best."
"I know you will."
"Dr. is there a chance that you could be wrong?"
"Yes I could be, but until we wake the young man up we won't know for sure. We can only hope and pray that we are wrong."
"There are a lot of prayers going out for that young man right now, what's a few more?" Tony said with a smile he really didn't feel.
"That is so true, I have seen the crowd of students outside and it is growing every day. It is a wonder that they are getting along so well."
"Not really Doc, they all have the same common goal, and that is Malcolm. To all those people out there and millions of others he is a hero. More so now that he has saved the Presidents life."
"Yes, I just wonder what he was thinking at that time. Tell me Mr. Marchand isn't it the secret service's job to take one for the President?"
"Yes it is, and we try very hard to make sure that no one gets even close to the man. We are still looking for answers as to how the shooters got so close."
"How is the President taking this?"
"Oh he is mad, I have a feeling that a few people will be out of work over this. I also know that both the President and his son Bennie will be coming in to see Malcolm, sometime later this week."
"Well then I had better make sure that the young man is awake."
The bells from the churches had just rang out, announcing that it was one o'clock. Kurt Bronson was still sitting in the front of the crowd, though he had gone home and showered and changed every day, but still he wasn't about to leave. Sally Morrison had moved from the middle of the crowd to sit with Kurt, both holding large white candles and neither talking as they said silent prayers for Malcolm and his family. The two cried and held each other when Dr. Lei had come out and told everyone just how bad Malcolm was. "Kurt?" Sally asked on the morning of the fourth day.
"Yeah Sally?"
"Do you think he will make it?"
"If he doesn't I don't want to be in the person's shoes when Patrick starts looking."
"You think they are a couple?"
"I don't care, they are both my friends. And right now both are hurting, so I will support them."
"I agree, I wasn't trying to be ugly when I asked."
"I know Sal, listen when this is all over and Malcolm goes home, umm? would you like to go out for dinner?" Kurt asked with a blush.
"Are you asking me out on a date?" Sally asked.
"Uh huh."
"Then Kurt Bronson, I would be more than happy to have dinner with you." Sally said as she leaned over and kissed Kurt on the lips, causing Kurt to blush even more.
"Come on Sally, let me get us something to munch on while we wait to hear what the doctors have to say."
"Okay, but let's not be too long."
Sally and Kurt had just sat back down with plates of hot-dogs and fries when Dr. Lei came out. With the Dr. stepping up to the podium the crowd ceased talking. "Ladies and Gentlemen, friends of Malcolm's I want to thank you all for your prayers and you vigils. Today we are going to be waking Malcolm up slowly. It is our hope that everything is healing properly. The only bad news we can share at this time is that we believe that Malcolm may be temporarily paralyzed from the waist down. We have informed his family of this and they are taking it hard. I ask that you all keep your prayers coming, and I honestly hope that we here at the hospital are wrong. Thank you and we will try and keep you all informed as to what is happening." Dr. Lei stated then left the area before questions could be asked.
"Fucking hell." Kurt yelled.
"Kurt, slow down you heard the Dr. they could be wrong." Sally said as she held Kurt's hand.
"I know, but still. We got to do something for him if he is."
"There isn't much we can do until we know for sure."
"You're right, it's just Malcolm has always gone out of his way to help everyone, I would love to find the prick and beat the hell out of him."
"I think we all would like to do that." Ryan said as he walked up to Kurt and Sally.
Upstairs in the ICU wing of the hospital, the silence was thick, as everyone wanted to hear whether Malcolm woke up or not. Dr. Lei and his nurse were the only ones besides family that were in the room, when Malcolm's eye lids flickered. Patrick who was sitting beside the bed holding Malcolm's hand gasped as he felt his own little hand being squeezed really hard. Just after that a moan came from Malcolm as the light hit his eyes. "Easy Malcolm, don't try to speak, you have a tube in your throat to help you breath." Dr. Lei whispered.
"?urts." Malcolm muttered.
"Yes you will feel a lot of pain for a few more days, just stay relaxed. Tomorrow we will try taking the tube out and getting you to breath on your own."
"?egs can't feel egs?"
"Shhh, we will talk tomorrow, right now relax. Patrick and your family are here, they have been with you all the way. In fact your young friend wouldn't leave your side." Dr. Lei said with a smile.
With a small smile on his face Malcolm closed his eyes and went back to sleep still holding Patrick's hand. At six when everyone had eaten, Patrick was back holding Malcolm's hand and reading to him when Nurse Olmsted pranced in. Seeing Patrick there and seeing him holding Malcolm's hand, her face changed to one of contempt. "Young man, you cannot sit there holding that boy's hand, we don't allow that in this hospital." Olmsted snarled.
"Ma'am I don't know who you are, but I will do what I want when I am with my boyfriend, you don't like it go to hell." Patrick snapped. "Besides, I know you're not Malcolm's nurse, so what are you doing here?"
"I would like to know that also?" Tony asked from the door way.
"I? I was asked to come check on the lad." Olmsted lied.
"I doubt that, in fact Nurse, this floor has been restricted ever since Mr. Daniels was brought up here, so again what are you doing here." Tony snapped.
"Like I said I am doing my job, other than that it is none of your business." Leaning over Malcolm, Olmsted whispered in his ear. "You're a dead boy, sooner or later." Turning Olmsted left the wing with a smile on her face.
"Nurse Olmsted please report to the administrator's office." Came a tinny voice over the speaker.
Olmsted's smile left her face quickly when she heard that. She had just pushed the up button on the elevator when the doors opened and out walked Dr. Lei and the Daniels family. Ignoring them, she pushed her way onto the elevator and hit the top floor. The receptionist was waiting for her when Olmsted entered the office. "You can go right in Ms. Olmsted." The receptionist stated.
"Thank you." Olmsted said in a snippy voice.
"Come in Olmsted, have a seat." The administrator said politely.
The meeting lasted all of five minutes and when Olmsted left the office she slammed the door. Leaving the hospital through the front door, Olmsted walked over towards the crowd and tried to push he way through. "Move your ass kid, I am coming through." Olmsted yelled.
The crowd parted to let her through, watching as she slammed her car door and tore out of the parking lot, and right into the side of an oncoming car. Hearing the two cars colliding the crowd turned to look, and saw Olmsted make her way out of her car and walk over to the other. Seeing that no one was hurt. Olmsted stood and waited for the police to show up as she knew they would.
Inside the hospital Dr. Lei and the Daniels family were talking about what to expect when Malcolm woke again. It was Patrick that asked the one question on everyone's mind. "Dr. Lei what did he mean when he said egs, can't feel egs?"
"Son, what Malcolm was really saying was legs, and that he couldn't feel them. The reason for this is because his spinal cord has been bruised."
"He will be able to walk again right?" Patrick asked.
"I will be honest with you all and say that right now we don't know." Dr. Lei answered.
Turning and staring down the hall way Patrick's shoulders slumped a bit. "He's not going to like that."
"No one likes to lose their legs, more so an active teen, with your permission Mr. Daniels I would like to have Dr. Canalhan come in and talk with Malcolm."
"Who is Dr. Canalhan?" Richard asked.
"He is one of the top youth Psychologists in Florida."
"If you think it will help my son, then do what is needed."
"Thank you, I will call him in the morning and see when he is available, I also think that it might help his friend Patrick also to sit and talk with the Dr."
"My dad can't afford that." Patrick stated.
"Son." Dr. Lei said placing a hand on Patrick's shoulder. "Your parents don't have to worry about paying anything."
"But the Dr. costs a lot of money."
"Yes he does, and the hospital administrator has been told that the bill is to go to the Oval office."
"You mean the President is paying for all this?" Richard asked.
"Yes sir."
"I can't allow that, we can afford to pay our own bills. I will phone the President and stop this." Richard said as he grabbed his cell phone and walked down the hallway.
As everyone stood in the hallways talking Malcolm had woken up again and was laying there staring at the ceiling, his chest and stomach hurt as did his left arm. The dim lights helped a bit, letting Malcolm move his eyes and see what was around him. He could hear the machines working. One thing Malcolm realized was that he was hungry. After laying there alone for thirty minutes the door opened and Patrick walked in. Sitting beside the bed Patrick looked at his boyfriend and smiled. "I can see you're awake, don't talk okay." Patrick said as he took Malcolm's hand. "I love you Malcolm and we'll get through this together. You have a lot of friends praying for you, and a lot of students and parents are outside holding a vigil, praying for you to get better, so you got to."
"My egs," Malcolm mumbled around the tube in his throat.
"I know you like them easy over, with lots of ketchup on them." Patrick said with a grin, hiding the truth from Malcolm.
At the end of the hallway Richard listened to the ringing of a phone in the White House. "Mason here." Ace answered.
"Mr. Mason, this is Richard Daniels may I speak with the President please?" Richard asked.
"One second Mr. Daniels. Oh how is Malcolm doing?"
"The Dr. woke him this afternoon. He was sleeping when we went for dinner, so he probably is still."
"I am happy to hear that he is going to make it. Here is the President for you."
"Thank you Mr. Mason."
"Mr. Daniels, what can I do for you?" Ben asked.
"Mr. President, I was just informed that your office is paying for Malcolm's hospital bill, I can't allow you to do that."
"Mr. Daniels, I understand what you are saying, but I ask that you hear me out on this."
"I will."
"Thank you. I know that your family can pay the bills, but your son saved my life and possibly the life of my son. To me there is nothing in this world I wouldn't do for Malcolm after that. Your son sacrificed himself for others, and has been doing that for almost two years, without wanting anything in return. So I am asking you father to father to let my office pay this bill."
"Sir, Ben, as a father I wouldn't feel good in allowing that, but I feel that you are not going to let me win this argument, so I will concede under one condition."
"Oh, and what might that be?"
"That when Malcolm comes home that you and your son come join us for a barbecue. I will make it the best there is."
"Richard, I am assure you that both my son and I will be there, all you have to do is tell me when." Ben laughed.
"Thank you sir, and please let your son know that Malcolm is going to be okay."
"I will do that. You get some rest, and please call me anytime and let me know how your son is doing."
"I will sir, you have a good night."
The next morning Dr. Lei came in and checked on Malcolm. "Well young man, how would you like that tube taken out?" Dr. Lei asked.
Getting a nod from Malcolm, Dr. Lei smiled. "Okay let me get a nurse in here to help and we will have you talking soon, I warn you though that your voice is going to be rough for a bit and your throat will be sore, so we will have some ice for you to suck on."
Again Malcolm nodded and tried to smile. An hour later Malcolm was sucking on and ice cube when Tony came in. Smiling he walked over and ruffled Malcolm's hair. "Well brat, how are you doing?" Tony asked.
"Better, but I am a cripple now." Malcolm said, his voice a bit gravely.
"Well it won't be long before you're walking again, I know you, you're a fighter and you won't let this beat you."
"Doesn't matter, sooner or later someone is going to beat me, so I may as well just give up."
"No I don't think you will want to do that, besides what about Patrick, he doesn't care does he?"
"He says he don't, but I can see it."
"Malcolm I honestly think you're wrong there. That boy loves you to death."
"Yeah right, just wait and see, as soon as he can he will find someone that can walk, dance and do things with him. I just wish?"
"No you don't. You have millions of children all thinking the same thing and that you're their hero. You have a good seventy percent of the adults thinking the same way. What does that tell you?"
"Tells me they bet on a loser. Now I want to be alone if you don't mind."
"Okay, but Malcolm you are not a loser, and don't give up."
Leaving Malcolm's room Tony leaned against the nurse's station and dried his eyes. He knew Malcolm was hurting, but how bad he would never know. Tony was about to grab the phone off the desk when he saw Dylan Masters walk off the elevator. "Mr. Masters, what brings you here?"
"I came to drop off a couple of get well cards for Malcolm, plus I have a letter from his mother." Dylan said.
"Well, I just left Malcolm, he said he wanted to be alone. That boy is hurting Dylan and I don't know what to do."
"There isn't much anyone can do, except be there for him. I know that Dr. Canalhan is coming in to see him sometime this week, but right now all anyone can do is support him and show him he is needed."
"Dylan, Malcolm thinks when people see he's in a wheel chair that they will turn their backs on him. I don't know about anyone else, but I know I will always be there for him and I think Patrick will also, but Malcolm feels differently."
"You know Tony, when I took law in university, I also took a course in psychology. Right now what Malcolm is feeling is normal. He is a scared young man that has fought a lot of fights lately, but this is a fight that is going to be harder for him, not just physically, but emotionally as well. The first person that is close to him and turns their back will probably kill the lad."
"You think it is that bad?"
"Without talking to him, I can't be sure, just say that is it a gut feeling."
"Well then we have to push him to want to walk again, or at least to try."
"He has to want that." A middle aged man said as he walked up. "Sorry for interrupting, I am Dr. Canalhan."
"I am Tony Marchand of the secret service and this is DA Masters." Tony said as he introduced Dylan.
"Masters, are you the one that convicted the Richardson brothers?" Canalhan asked.
"Yes and Malcolm's mother also." Dylan answered. "Tony I have to get back to the office, here please give these to Malcolm, and tell him he has people that care." Dylan asked.
"I will and Dylan thanks for stopping by, you're talk helped."
"Anytime. Oh Zach wants to come visit, would that be okay?"
"Who is Zach?" Tony asked.
"My young son, he is six and knows Malcolm."
"What do you think Dr?" Tony asked Canalhan.
"You know I think that would be wonderful, it would show Mr. Daniels that he has friends that care."
"Good, then I will bring him over after dinner tonight."
Watching Dylan leave, Tony led Dr. Canalhan over to Malcolm's room. Before turning and heading down stairs and outside. "Hey dad, how's Malcolm doing this morning?" Jamie asked as he walked over and gave Tony a hug.
Before he could answer Tony saw a group of students standing around him and Jamie. "Well everyone, Malcolm is doing great, they took out the breathing tube this morning
And he had been able to talk." Tony answered.
"But?" Jamie said. "I can hear it there, so tell me."
"Jamie, I don't think this is the time or place."
"Sir, my name is Ryan, Malcolm helped me and well sir, we all want to help Malcolm, the Doctor said the other day that Malcolm would be in a wheel chair, but that they could be wrong. Tell us the truth please, is Malcolm going to be disabled?"
"Son, it really isn't my place?" Tony started.
"Go ahead Tony, they are his friends and they should know." Richard interrupted.
"If you are sure about this Richard, then I will."
"Yes I am sure, and I think Malcolm's brothers would like his friends to know the truth."
"Very well, people the truth is yes Malcolm is paralyzed, but we are hoping and praying that it is just temporary. What Malcolm needs the most right now it the support of his friends and family. He needs to know that no matter what he is still the same person he was before this happened."
"Well duh, that is a given." Kurt laughed. "I think we all feel the same way. Malcolm is a hero."
"That he is son, but he won't tell you that himself."
"He is like Kid Justice, never wanting glory." Ryan said with a smile.
"Those are Malcolm's?" Aaron started to say before Zeke whispered for him not to, but Ryan caught the meaning and smiled.
Going over he lifted Aaron and hugged him. "Hey big man, how are you doing?"
"I okay, I miss Malcolm though."
"I bet you do, I think we all miss having him around, but he will be with us all soon."
"That what dad says too."
"Sir may I buy these two an ice cream?" Ryan asked Richard.
"I don't see why not, but only if they want one." Richard said with a laugh.
"Uh huh, can I get stwaberry?" Aaron asked.
"I think we can find you some strawberry." Ryan said with a grin. "What about you Zeke?"
"Yes please, and chocolate."
"Well then let's go see the ice cream man."
Upstairs in Malcolm's room, Dr. Canalhan was sitting in a chair that he had brought over close to Malcolm's bed. The Dr. Just sat there looking at Malcolm for a minute before he said anything. "Well young man tell me how do you feel this morning?"
"Sore, but who the heck are you?" Malcolm asked.
"I am Dr. Canalhan, I have been asked by Dr. Lei to come and talk to you about what has happened."
"Oh, well everyone knows what happened, I got shot, not like it is the first time."
"I heard that this is what your third time being shot at, have you ever talked to anyone about those times?"
"No, there wasn't any need to, I was able to get past them without any problems, just like this time."
"I see, but isn't this time different?"
"Not really, but then who knows. Now if you don't mind I would like to be alone."
"Sure, I will be back tomorrow to speak with you."
"Whatever, I really don't think you need to bother."
As the Dr. was leaving the room, he felt, more than heard that Malcolm was giving up, though there was really nothing he could put his finger on to substantiate the feeling. When Dr. Lei walked in later that afternoon to check on Malcolm he was surprised to see that the monitors had been shut off and that Malcolm was laying on his right side facing away from the door. "Good afternoon Malcolm, how are you today?"
"Fine, how much longer and I going to be in here?"
"I would say at least another six weeks, or until we have you up and in your chair."
"Not going to happen. I will never get in that thing."
"Malcolm, we don't know how long it will take for the bruising of your spine to heal, nor do we know if you will ever walk again. Spinal cord injuries are hard to predict."
"Who cares?"
"I think a lot of people care. I also know that a lot of people are praying for you that in itself tells me that you have a lot of friends out there."
"Yeah right, the minute they see me in a wheel chair they will drop me like a pile or turds."
"You give them little credit."
"Just leave me alone. I don't want visitors anymore either."
"What about your family."
"No one."
"I see, I will inform your father and he can tell the others."
Closing his eyes Malcolm just laid there, he heard the nurse come in and felt her changing the bandages, but other than that he didn't do anything. When lunch was brought in and set on his table, he ignored it. Dinner and breakfast when the same way.
True to his word Dr. Lei spoke with Richard and told him that Malcolm now doesn't want visitors. "Not even family?" Richard asked surprised at what the Dr. had told him.
"He doesn't want to see anyone, family, friends, you name it."
"What brought this on, do you know?"
"I don't, but I have a feeling that he now feels useless. He did say that everyone would now turn on him, but I can't see that happening."
"No, though some of his friends from school might, but not this family, and definitely not Patrick."
"Let's wait and see how he feels tomorrow, hopefully he will have changed his mind."
"God, I hope so, his two little brothers would be hurt if Malcolm rejected them."
Patrick was sitting at home reading another of the Kid Justice series, while waiting for his dad to come home and drive him to the hospital so he could see Malcolm. His brother and sister were sitting in the living room watching TV when the phone jangled, startling everyone. Robert Jr. was the first to reach it. "Hello?"
"Patrick please." A young voice sounded.
"Patrick Phone for you, sounds like one of your friends." Robert called out.
"Okay, be right there." Patrick called from his room. "Hello?"
"You're next?"