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Post by Serendipity on Apr 25, 2016 3:36:18 GMT -8
“I’m going in!”
He’d made his decision, he just hoped he hadn’t made it too late. There were men inside, his men, and he needed to help them.
“Bradey,wait! Captain hasn’t-”
But it had already been too late for the warning, and he was already rushing inside the blazing inferno. Head down, mask on, suited up, radio at his shoulder he disappeared into the smoke filled entrance of the thirty-five story high building. The fire was on the eighteenth floor, but the smoke from burning wood, plastics, paper and office furniture had made it way out and down through the levels both above and below it.
---- ---- ---- ---- Liam couldn’t recall ever becoming unconscious before, maybe as a kid who’d had many a bad fall but as an adult? It had never happened. Until now...it was a strange sensation you got when you woke up out of the darkness, one minute you remember being somewhere and then the next, almost as if no time had passed at all, you were waking up somewhere else with no recollection of how you got there. In Liam’s case he’d woke up to bright lights and beeping monitors, and there were tubes coming out of his arms and hands, and mask covered his mouth and nose. The intensity of the lights almost made him want to close his eyes again, they were ridiculously bright but he fought through the urge and they adjusted quickly enough. The mask he realised was an oxygen mask, and whether he needed or not it didn't matter because he took it off. The tubing however he didn't touch, careful not to pull any of them out as he slowly sat up. It didn't take Liam all that long to put two and two together and work out he was in a hospital, possibly Northwestern Memorial if he had to guess. Damn, he hated hospitals. The last time he’d been in one was when his grandfather had died, and considering his grandfather had only been admitted for the common cold, Liam hadn’t stepped foot in one since. You’d think, in his line of work that he would have seen endless amounts of ER and hospital rooms, but Liam was a lucky son of bitch and he’d never had too. Small medical centres to get the odd burn looked at and bandaged, yes, because he wasn’t lucky enough to avoid those yet. A firefighter’s job was a dangerous one, he risked his life almost every day, one wrong move or mistake and he’d probably be lying in a morg rather than a hospital bed. He counted himself lucky it was a hospital bed now. As he tried to make himself a little more comfortable against the pillows, he noticed certain aches and pains start to surface, his back hurt like hell, his head throbbed, and he could feel the pinch of stitches near his left temple and more, he thought, on his outer right thigh. He was also noticing now that he’d been put into one of those terrible hospital gowns that peeped open at the back. Damn, he hated those too. When you were in one of them you had no dignity at all, and Liam didn’t want to be in one. The room he was in was empty, the only sounds he heard came from the beeping monitors he was hooked up too and the muffled voices of people outside his room. His blinds had been shut, most likely by his mother because she knew how much he liked his privacy, so no one was able to see him stirring. Liam frowned, wondering how he could get anyone’s attention since moving from the bed would mean ripping the tubes out of his arms, and then he remembered that all these hospital beds had buttons, somewhere, so you could call a nurse in if you needed one. He began searching for it, and finally when he found it he pushed it, Once was probably enough, but he pressed it a few more times for good measure. Whilst he waited for someone, anyone really, to make an appearance and tell him what was wrong with him and when he could go home and back to work, he tried recalling the incident leading up to his blackout. Had he passed out from lack of oxygen? His aching back, and stitches didn’t seem to think so. He might have fallen or had something fall on top of him...but honestly he couldn’t remember, whatever had happened it hadn’t come back to him yet. He doubted he had amnesia, could remember everything else leading up to his blackout, people who had amnesia couldn’t do that right? He remembered the firehouse alarm alerting them to the fire, remembered gearing up quick as a flash and running towards Engine 15 just as it was disembarking the Firehouse 51. Liam remembered the familiar smell of smoke on the breeze as the truck neared downtown Chicago, and he recalled smoke pouring out of every open door or window of the building as they approached. He even remembered his hair brained split decision to run into the building when there’d been no response on the radio from the three firefighters who had been sent in to put out the flames. The thick layer of smoke covering almost every floor of the building had made it difficult to see more than three or four steps in front of him, but he’d pressed on and had made it to the eighteenth floor where he’d been met with a wall of flames. Then there was the sound of something cracking or snapping, either a beam above or the floor beneath him he wasn’t quite sure because that had been the last thing he remembered before blacking out.
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Post by emtkxx on Apr 25, 2016 6:34:38 GMT -8
Music rang loudly through the darkness for a few seconds before a hand reached for the endurable towards the cellular device. Thumb finally finding the little green button, "Harper." The voice spoke groggily- still not fully awake. "Get you're butt down here girl! We have a group of Firefighters coming in from a pretty nasty fire downtown," That was all the voice said before hanging up on her. Groaning, she flung her work phone to the end of the bed. Throwing the warm blankets off she quickly made her way to the closet grabbing a pair of black slacks and light grey turtle neck. She had froze her butt off during training enough times to know hospitals weren't the warmest of places. Heading to the bathroom to have a fast shower- she grimaced at the light bags under her eyes. She had been on shift work ever since her got her residency at Northwest Memorial. They said it would help her get use to the pace easier; more like some sick and cruel joke. However she didn't mind all that much.- becoming a doctor was her dream.
Pulling her hair up into a a somewhat neat ponytail, once her hair dried the waviness would make it look a little less formal, and putting only mascara on. That's one thing she liked about her occupation, not having to doll up all the time. Look presentable, but not like a barbie. Plus she preferred the natural look. Slipping into her clothes she figured breakfast on the go would be best. She didn't need to be scorned for taking too long. Filling her travel cup up with coffee and grabbing a protein bar she was out the door. Sliding into her car mentally checking in her head she had everything. She didn't want to leave her access card behind, again. Luckily the drive was only a ten minute one. The streets were dead- it was three am in the morning so it made sense.
Finding her spot in the garage the young woman literally sprinted. She could hear all the chaos from the other side of the building. "Thank the lord, Harper is finally here!" A man's voice boom speeding past her, "We're bring them to the south side and burn unit." The man added before disappearing around a corner. Making her way to the locker room she fumbled for her locker key- the adrenaline was starting to kick in. This wasn't her first big call, however, she didn't think this feel would ever stop. Grabbing her white coat and badge that showed her identity Dr E. Harper- meaning doctor Emily Harper. The brunette still wasn't use to the title. Gliding out of the room she made her way down to the south end, "Harper I need you to start check vitals and get on the IVs. The burn victims are just being transported to the next unit." Her senior barked out orders and she didn't hesitate, quickly getting to her job. Everything was turning into a blur for her- like she was on a high, but it didn't make her performance at her job any less.
"Lansley, get over her! We need to prop him up- he's inhaled too much smoke!" Emily called out to her partner in crime, they had gone to medical school together and somehow ended up here together. The blonde man came over quickly and they got to work- the nasty blackness the man coughed up showed he was a fighter. Then again, he already had stitches, a couple good visible bruises. The brunette couldn't imagine what was hidden under the gown. Hours flew by and she was too tired to function, but they hadn't lost anyone. So she smiled through all of her exhaustion. Their senior doctor had said a few words of how well everyone did, and patted them on the back. He then assigned whom each doctor would be looking after- to monitor.
Emily looked at her clipboard curiously, Liam Bradey, he looked so young but the age shown under his picture told differently. A few years older than her twenty-seven years. Coming outside his room- curtains shut from letting her getting a peak- there stood an older woman and a few others. However, she could the the woman was his mother; they looked very similar. "Mrs. Bradey?" Emily asked with a calm sweet tone, she noticed people responded to it best, and from how weary the woman looked. She wasn't the happiest about the situation. Well her son was in a hospital bed. "Yes, that's me," The woman's voice was strained, eyes puffy and red. Emily stopped a few steps away, "You're son is a fighter. He'll be just fine, a little for, but fine." Mrs. Bradey burst right into tears after hearing that and sobbed, "Thank you so much! Thank you for keep him alive." Emily's ocean coloured eyes widened and then softened, this is why she loved her job. Not the thank yous, but being able to keep loved ones together.
Patting the woman on the shoulder, they spoke a few more words and then Emily entered the new dimly lite room. He had pressed a button, so she knew he was function, but was surprised to see how functional he was. Eyes open and shifting in his bed. He seemed uncomfortable- she knew how awful those beds felt. "Hello Mr. Bradey, my name is Doctor Harper. I just need to go through a few small test with you," Her voice light, as if she hadn't help pump black smoke from his lungs hours before. Passing her clipboard at the under of the bed in the little holder, she questioned, "Full name, age and what day is it, please?" Fiddling in her pocket to find her little light- she'd need to check his eyes. Stepping into his personal bubble that's when it hit her; his photo didn't do him any justice. His hazel eyes were brilliant, and jawbone strong. Mentally slapping herself- stop ogling the patient.
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Post by Serendipity on Apr 25, 2016 22:15:59 GMT -8
The longer he waited for a doctor or nurse to answer his call the more his mind went back to the events that now had him in a hospital bed. The reason he’d raced into the burning building without so much thought for his own safety (and his Captain would kick his ass for it later he was sure) was to help his friends. There had been radio silence for far too long and Liam had felt uneasy about it, but he’d never got the chance to find them before something had happened and he’d blacked out. Were they okay? Had they made it out? These thoughts went through his mind, and the more he thought about them the more he wanted -no, needed- to know that his colleagues were alright.
His thoughts were interrupted by the sound of the door opening and Liam’s gaze focused on the figure walking through it. He blinked in surprise, he wasn’t expecting a doctor as young as the one walking into his room. If the white coat and stethoscope around her neck were anything to go by she was definitely a doctor and not a nurse. Doctor Harper. Her introduction confirmed his thoughts. Liam cleared his throat a little as she neared the end of his bed, placing his chart back where it was supposed to be. For a moment he was distracted by the blue of her eyes as her gaze got his and he nearly missed her questions.
“Sure.” He nodded quickly his brain eventually catching up with her questions. “Liam Henry Bradey, twenty-nine...and it’s Wednesday - I think.” He answered, however he sounded a little unsure of what day of the week it was. They had received the call to put out the fire in the late hours of Tuesday night, so assuming that he hadn’t been unconscious for days on end he was guessing it would have to be Wednesday morning. His hazel orbs followed the Doctor’s movements as she moved around the side of his bed, pulling out a small light from her pocket - was he mistaken or had her cheeks become slightly flushed? He tried not to smile regardless of the reason she was flushed. She was probably just busy and trying to get through as many patients as she could, it had nothing to do with him. She also looked tired, he could see the shadows under her eyes - Mentally he shook his head, he didn't need to be noticing these things about her.
She was pointing the light into his eyes before he had the chance to ask her a few of his own questions, like how his friends were doing and when he could be discharged. But he cooperated and followed the light back and forth as she moved it. Once she was done, satisfied that he had passed her little test, he waited until she was tucking the light back into her pocket before he asked his question. “Can you tell me if my friends are okay, O’Brien and Davis - they were inside the building too, I had gone in to make sure they were alright.” Liam hoped that she would know something that would put his mind to ease.
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Post by emtkxx on Apr 26, 2016 3:42:50 GMT -8
Popping the small light out of her pocket a smile smile formed her face. His voice suited him-then again his whole figure screamed firefighter. She could understand why he was so hesitant; he had been slightly concussed and that can lead to minor memory loss. Usually just events that had been through the day, hours and or minutes before the trauma. "Very good Mr. Bradey, and yes it's Wednesday. Early morning in fact. Now I just need you to follow this, please," Her voice sweet reassuring him; bending a little to his eye level she shown the light. Looking for any motor issues and or splotching around the eyes. It was hard to know what a head injury could do to a person. Each case was unique to it's own. Being deliberate in her analyzation though- she jumped a little when his voice broke the silence. The brunette was starting to feel fatigue set in.
Usually when a patient asked about another she was suppose to go to her superior or at least to a check-in, but she had actually just come from the Burn Unit and knew Lansley had Davis. "Everything seems good," Emily stated sliding her little tool back into her pocket. Still contemplating if she should follow regulation or not; the look in his eyes though. Mr. Bradey had hope and despair mixed swirling in his orbs. Placing both hands in her pockets- perhaps looking a little unprofessional, but usually this helps patients feel more comfortable around her. They usually already felt stuffy in this whole and grey room, they didn't need a rigid doctor as well.
"You all got out just fine. I'm sure you'll be visiting them in no time," Emily finally confessed, and she spoke the truth. Out of all three he definitely wasn't looking as rough. He was completely coherent and seemed ready to go on with his day. Walking back to grab her clipboard, "I'll be back in a few minutes with some medication and to check those stitches. I believe you have some family out there that would like to see you." Making her way to the door- turning the knob a woman appeared through the door frame in a flash. His mother must have been listening in- Emily looked back with soft eyes. Mother going in for a hug crying over her adult son. She would probably never forget this scene.
Taking her leave towards the meds desk, "How's your patient Lansley?" The blonde man looked up from his paperwork and shrugged, "Better than before I suppose." He was right- Davis had minor burns and hand completely crushed. Sighing, Emily needed some caffeine or something. Handing her clip bored to the redhead behind the desk, "I'll get those for you in a second dear." The young brunette didn't mind waiting; her patient was currently having family time. Her mind wandered to the details they were given about the fire. If she had to be honest the firefighters who went in that burning building shouldn't have come back out alive. The whole thing collapsed basically. Top to bottom. "Here you go," The redhead came back with prescription bottle in hand. How long had she been stuck in her thoughts? She thanked the older woman and told Lansley to keep his chin up. That was kind of their motto, cliche but it worked for them.
Coming to Mr. Bradey's room she knocked lightly and peeked in the room. "Sorry to interrupt," Emily said apologetically- she really did hate to intrude on their little moment. Strolling in with purpose, "Alright Mr. Bradey, you've been prescribed 20 milligrams of oxycontin. You can take it on an empty stomach, but I'd recommend with food because it can make you feel nauseous. Take one every four to five hours needed," her tone matter-of-fact but not in a snobby way. Flashing a smile at her patient and his family, she placed the little bottle beside his bed. "Now I just need to take a peek at those stitches," her warm voice added coming around the other side of the bed. Gently placing her fingers on the side of his head she lifted the gauzed pad to see the puffy suture, but it wasn't bleeding or discoloured. So he was healing just fine. Taping the fabric back down, "Is there any other questions for me, Mr. Bradey?" Emily would most likely be going on her break after this. So she wanted to make sure he was at ease before disappearing on him for an hour or so.
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Post by Serendipity on Apr 26, 2016 16:20:36 GMT -8
He had asked the question but there was no certainty he would receive the answer he wanted, either she wouldn’t be able to tell him anything without permission from their families or her boss, or she’d tell him the news he feared the most. Liam tensed when she hesitated, wondering if bad news was on its way. His gaze never left hers as he waited for her response, trying to guess what her answer might be from the expressions on her pretty face, and he hadn’t realised he’d been holding his breath until she finally spoke and he let it out. “You all got out just fine…” Thank god! To say he was relieved would have been an understatement - his friends were alright, they had survived. Although he didn’t know the extent of their injuries, he was just happy that there weren’t funerals to go to. They hadn’t lost anyone from their unit in the past five years, it had been a different story before that however, but Liam didn’t want to think about that right now. ”That’s good news, thanks Doc.” Liam sighed and offered her a grateful smile, and he seemed to relax a little more now that he wasn’t so worried about the others. At the mention of his family, he almost groaned. It wasn’t that he didn’t love and appreciate that his family were here to show their support, it was just that his mother - well his mother cried, a lot. He loved his mother, he just hated when she cried, it always made him uncomfortable. In fact he hated when any woman cried, not just his mother and two sisters, he never had any idea how to handle that type of situation. When it came to his family he had eventually figured out the right words to say and a hug or two always helped, but it still made him uncomfortable. “Sure, send them in.” He nodded, but she was already on her way out and disappeared out the door. Seconds later his mother hurried in followed by his sisters, one of them cradling a toddler against her hip. “Liam, oh thank goodness you’re awake! We were s-s-so w-worried!” His mother said and was already on the verge of crying. “Mom, please don’t cry. I’m fine. I’m a lucky son of a bitch remember?”“Liam! Watch your tongue around William.” His mother gasped and swatted him lightly on the arm. His sister, Fiona, only laughed and hugged William closer to her, his head resting on her shoulder he was fast asleep. “Well, he’s obviously fine!” Fiona pointed out with another chuckle. Kellie shook her head and passed a disapproving look to both her children before she sighed and smiled down at Liam, patting his arm lightly. If it weren’t for the fact he was still connected to these machines he would have hugged the woman, if only to reassure he really was okay. Unfortunately he couldn’t and settled by placing his hand over hers, giving it a light squeeze. They chatted for a few minutes, Liam telling them everything he remembered before waking up in hospital. Doctor Harper came into the room after a light knock on the door to make her presence known and apologising for the interruption. Liam watched her as she walked further in the room and held out a small bottle of pills, explaining that they were pain meds and he had to take one every four to five hours when needed. His family moved out of the way as she approached, giving the Doctor the space she needed to work. Liam nodded to show he understood her instructions and accepted that she needed to take a look at his stitches. He made sure he kept still whilst she placed gentle hands against the side of his head, lifting up the gauze covering the stitches she needed to see. He could smell the perfume she wore being this close, it was faint indicating that she had been here a while. It was nice, whatever it was. He was distracted enough by her perfume that he didn’t notice the sting from around his wound as she re-applied the gauze, pressing gently to keep it in place. “Just a couple,” He answered after she asked if he had any other questions before she left. “When can I be discharged and is there any chance I can see my friends?” He asked.
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Post by emtkxx on Apr 26, 2016 17:09:34 GMT -8
Shifting from foot to foot she looked at her clipboard contemplating his questions, about being discharged and seeing his wounded friends. Glancing up from under her lashes, "Well from what I see there's no internal trauma due to your head injury. However, we want to take give you an MRI just to make sure. And then depending on what Doctor. Owens, one of the seniors of the facility, you'll be able leave. So you'll be here for at least seventy-two hours at most..." Unclipping her pen from the wooden board she scribbled something down. Then looking up with a smile, "But I don't see why I can't give you permission to move around. As long as you're not in too much pain- you have a cracked rib and severe bruising around your spine." Emily stated, and she meant business. Last thing she needed was to get written up for letting a patient be reckless. "And if I get wind of you wincing or clutching your back. Well I don't think you really want to be babysat or stuck in this room; so just be careful. Don't strain yourself too much," She added with a teasing tone, but the brunette really hoped he would let himself heal properly. His body needed the rest.
Hearing a woman snicker, she had the cutest little boy in her arms and Emily smiled warmly at her. She wondered when she would settle down, or if she'd ever have children. This job didn't leave much room for any relationship outside of it though. Emily couldn't really complain she chose this occupation. Looking back at the handsome patient, "Well my job's done here Mr. Bradey... Doctor Owens will be in to check on you next. However, if you need me at any time they'll page me." Giving a small nod to the rest of the group she made her way back to the door, but was halted by a voice- Mrs. Bradey in fact, "You... you were the one who helped him when he was unconscious, right? I had asked early and a young man described someone just like you." Emily let out a small shaky breath as the images flashed before her. The man whom was fully conscious now use to be bloody and smeared in smoke. Turning around, "There was a team of professionals helping-" The young brunette started but was cut off by the older woman. "No, you were the one who cleared his lungs." Holding the clipboard to her chest, she glanced at all the faces of the room before resting on Liam Bradey's.
"It's my job ma'am..." She felt slightly embarrassed, cheeks burning, to say such a simple thing but it was true. It was her job to not let him die. "You... thank you. I'll never be able to repay you!" Mrs. Bradey started blubbering and then full on sobs. Emily hadn't expected the sudden tears, but had been coached on how to deal with them. However, looking at the sincerity in the woman's eyes Emily couldn't help but smiling widely and place a hand on her shoulder. "Honestly Mrs. Bradey- this is all the repayment I need. Now you guys have a good day," Emily's voice was light and she could help but laugh when the woman grabbed her hand. The young doctor could tell the woman had a big heart, "And I mean it Mr. Bradey, do not strain yourself. Or I'll strap you to that bed myself." Her joke broke the odd tension and made Mrs. Bradey laugh. Then Emily disappeared through the door. Leaning on it she felt a rush of tears start to form. Everything was starting to hit her. Images of his unconscious form and chaotic events appeared in her mind.
Quickly wiping at her eyes, she was starting to crash and knew she needed to get caffeine in to her body pronto. Making her way down to the staff room, Linda stood hot pot of coffee in hand and looking just as tired. "Hey champ, need some of this?" Emily nodded in thanks and too the cup gratefully. "So from the looks of it, you and I could sleep for a week," Linda added taking a sip of her coffee. The brunette sighed, "Tell me about it."
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Post by Serendipity on Apr 26, 2016 18:18:47 GMT -8
Seventy-two hours?! He groaned inwardly, making sure he didn’t show his disappointment on the outside. He didn’t want to make her feel bad just because he hated hospitals and was eager to get out. He knew she was just doing her job, and after the serious fall it had appeared he’d taken - from what his sister had said- they were just taking precautions to make sure there wasn’t anything seriously wrong with him that they’d missed. Liam, as much as he wanted to be asked to get discharged sooner, also didn’t want to interfere with the process the hospital had to take to assure their patients were healthy before they left. He knew what it was like to have someone on the outside try and interfere with his job, it happened almost all the time, people thinking they knew better than he did when it came to putting out fires, and he didn’t want to be one of those people when it came to Doctor Harper’s job. And it was lucky he didn’t, otherwise she mightn't have been so willing to give him permission to move around and get unhooked from the monitors beside his bed. She warned him that he’d cracked a rib and had severe bruising around his spine - that’s why his back hurt so damn much!- and Liam took note to take it easy. It might have been reckless of him to run into that building to help his friends but he’d never intentionally risk his own health, he wasn’t that stubborn. “I think I can agree to that, I promise I won’t strain myself unnecessarily.” He nodded with a small grin- though he wouldn’t have minded being babysat, if the babysitter was this doctor in particular. Doctor Harper explained that she was finished checking on him and that another doctor would be in to check on him later, and Liam found himself wondering if he could find any excuses to request her presence instead. It was ashamed that she wouldn’t be back to check on him later, but he had seen how tired she looked, and she probably needed the rest. Before she could leave, and before Liam could thank her his mother was stopping her before she made it out. Liam knew instantly what was coming and grimaced, looking quickly back and forth to his two sisters for help considering he couldn’t get out of bed yet until a nurse came in to take out all the tubes in his arms. ”Mom.” Liam spoke quickly trying to distract his mother long enough so the doctor could leave, but it didn’t work. There went his emotional mother again, but deep down he loved her for it. He was grateful that Doctor Harper was taking it so well, he supposed she would be used to it, there’d be a lot of grateful families out there. Then again, Liam had never gotten used to the praise he received from the people’s homes or children he’d saved from deadly fires. Liam laughed along with his mother at Doctor Harper’s joke to ease some of the tension before she left. Although it was a joke, and he knew it would never happen, the idea of her strapping him to the bed herself had him thinking about ways he could make it happen. He quickly shook the thoughts from his mind though, his family was there and it was really inappropriate thinking. “I like her.” Liam’s sister said as the doctor left and he couldn’t help silently agreeing with her. “You guys should go home and get some sleep, come back in the afternoon and check on me.” He suggested lightly, he was glad they were here and worried about him but he was also concerned that they were depriving themselves of sleep because of him. “That’s a good idea actually, William will be hungry when he wakes up.” Fiona agreed, adjusting the small child in her arms. Kellie also nodded in agreement, which surprised Liam a bit, he thought she’d put up some argument to stay. “We can come back later, I’m sure you’ll want some fresh clothes. Is there anything else you need?” She asked. There was only one other thing that Liam was concerned about. “Hugo. Check on Hugo for me, he’ll want to be fed.” Liam told his mother, whose eyes instantly widened for a second as she remembered Liam’s dog. “Oh I forgot about Hugo, yes of course. I’ll stop in and check on him on the way home.”
Liam could relax a little more now that he knew his friends were okay, and that his dog would be looked after. Now all there was to do was rest and wait for the nurse to come in and take him off the monitors so then he could visit his friends and see how they were doing.
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Post by emtkxx on Apr 26, 2016 19:20:10 GMT -8
"You're practically inhaling your food!" Linda laughed watching the younger doctor take a few giant bites out of her sandwich and shrug. Emily had been starving- running only on coffee and a protein bar since she had been called in. The black hair woman shook her head in amusement and sipped on her coffee. Both women sat in silence content to finally be off their feet and not having to worry for anther thirty minutes. However, they could be called onto the floor any minute if extra hands are needed. That's why Emily was currently stuffing her face and had no shame doing so. "That's exactly what I needed," The brunette stated happily while cleaning up her mess, "Do you even know what it tasted like?" Linda countered making Emily snort, "I don't think I want to. Hospital food sucks." The older doctor tipped her cup to that and they fell into easy conversation. Linda was practically her mentor- the one who considered her most after her internship. The woman went to bat for her a number of times. Emily looked young and fragile in the eyes of many of the older male doctors. Had too faint of a heart for the job one said right to her face. However she proved them all wrong, the youngest in her class and one of the top students. They couldn't deny her.
A bald man poked his head in, "Harper- some nurse said you gave a patient access to roaming the halls. That true?" The brunette turned to face the man- he was one of the front deskmen. "If you mean Liam Bradey- then yes I did," Emily walked over to the man who rose a brow at her. "Just making sure because one of the interns is trying to rent out a wheelchair for him. And your handwriting is awful. So I couldn't make anything out," He spoke playfully earning an eye roll from the brunette doctor, "You got jokes Sinclair." He chuckled at that and then made his leave. "So twenty minutes left... Smoke break?" Linda questioned, Emily didn't smoke but usually tagged along for the fresh air. The younger girl nodded and they left the room towards the back entrance. Most of the doctors that smoked went to this area- it was the most secluded.
Emily inhaled deeply and drank in the warm sun, it was almost noon, and spring was out to play. "To bad you're polluting my air," Emily murmured, poking fun at her colleague , earning her an elbow to the ribs. The chatted a bit more before Emily decided it was time to make her rounds. Her first stop was to visit Ms. Emerson, the elderly lady had broken a hip a few days ago and Emily reminded her of her daughter- so she always made time for the woman. Then a few others whom she was taking over for Doctor Graham just for the few hours he had left off. Making her way back up to the intensive care unit, "Harper, you just get off break?" Langley's voice caught her attention making her twirl around, "Yeah, and I guess you're just getting off?" A tired smile formed on the man's face, "Yeah... was wondering if you could check on one of my patients. O'Brien- room 501B in the Burn Unit."
Agreeing to it, "No problem! Go get some food and water, you look like crap." Langley gave her a pointed look before taking his leave; he was so easy to mess with. Looking down at the new file he had given her, showing the details of Dean O'Brien- she couldn't help but frown. Third degree burns all over this right side, top to bottom, just missing his face by a fraction. Heading towards the elevators a familiar figure came into view, Liam Bradley to be exact. "Hello Kelsey... and Mr. Bradley. You're out of bed rather quick," Emily spoke making the young intern nearly jump out of her skin. She would have noticed the doctor if she hadn't been leering at the man in the wheelchair. Then again, he was nice on the eyes- bruised and all. "Oh, Doctor Harper! Yes I'm just taking him to see a patient on the fifth floor," Explained the intern making Emily go pale. She wasn't sure he was prepared for that; to see the state his friend was in. Then again he looked like a strong man and one to not change his mind. "Kelsey I'll take it from here. Can you please check on Mr. Davis in room 203, please?" The intern gladly took her instructions and said a pleasant goodbye to Mr. Bradley.
The brunette took her place behind the wheelchair and pushed it into the elevator after in dinged. "Fair warning Mr. Bradley... you're friend is in rough shape. You won't be able to enter, but be able to view him behind his glass window. His family left it open for friends and other family members," She informed him with an indifferent tone. She was trying to be carful with her choice of words- this man was important to him, he ran in a burning building for O'Brien! Getting off the elevator and carefully pushed the hazel-eyed man to the room they needed to be at. Emily placed him in front of the window, giving his shoulder a light squeeze before heading to the side and slipping inside.
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Post by Serendipity on Apr 26, 2016 21:52:41 GMT -8
Liam was eager to get out of bed, he hated being confined to one, and it wasn’t very comfortable so when the nurse came in to unhook him from the two machines placed beside his bed he cooperated and allowed her to do her job without a fuss. Before she left he asked to be taken to see his closet of the two friends, but she wouldn’t allow him to get up and walk on in own, instructing him to wait until they were able to find a wheelchair. He sighed heavily, more waiting, but nodded without complaint. He had learned some much needed patience over the years since starting his career as a firefighter and it was being put to the test now. While he waited for the nurse to come back with his wheelchair he shifted over to the side table beside the bed where he assumed some of his belongings might have been kept. He was right, his phone and house keys were sitting in the top draw when he opened it and he quickly picked up the phone. He had someone he needed to call and was now using the time he had to wait to call the his Captain. Liam had no doubt that the man had visited him at some point, although he’d still been unconscious so they hadn’t had the chance to speak. “Captain, it’s Bradey.” He said once his call was answered. “I’m awake, yes, yes I’m fine. You’ll get the report soon I’m sure.” Bradey explained as the older man said he would wait for the hospital report before he decided if Liam was really fine or not. “I should suspend you, Bradey. Damn it, you fool.” Liam could hear the exasperation in the other man’s voice, but there was also a hint of both concern and relief. “Being stuck in hospital for the next seventy-two hours isn’t enough? Besides, it could be a few weeks before I’m back at full working capacity, cracked rib and all.” He chuckled lightening the mood of the conversation, and grinned as he heard his captain laughing on the other end too. “I suppose that’s punishment enough, but you and I are going to have a long chat once you’re out of there.” Yes, Liam was sure they would but for now he was just relieved his captain wasn’t considering firing him for not following orders. They were like a tight knit family in their own way at Firehouse 51, a lot of the men were from generations of firefighters, it was in their blood. Liam wasn’t one of them though, his father had been an accountant, but that didn’t mean firefighting wasn’t in his blood either. An intern came back with his wheelchair in tow, he wasn’t sure what had happened to the nurse but the intern seemed nice enough, and wasn’t too bad on the eye. She helped him into the wheelchair, and if he was a self conscious kind of guy he would have been a little embarrassed by the open gown at the back. Liam wasn’t self conscious, but he still couldn’t wait for his own clothes to arrive. The intern, Kelsey she said her name was, chatted enthusiastically with him as they made their way down the hall and towards a set of elevators that would take them to the fifth floor. He politely returned the conversation but found his mind elese, eyes roaming the halls for a particular light brown head. Doctor Harper came around the corner just when he thought he might not see her, and Liam smiled on her approach. She looked slightly concerned that he was up and about already, and her frown at the mention of who they were going to see caused Liam’s smile to slip. “I couldn’t stand sitting in that bed any longer, but I haven’t broken my promise, see...I’m in a wheelchair.” Liam told her, an amused twinkle in his eye as he recalled her threats of strapping him to the bed if he overexerted himself. The air seemed to shift though as she dismissed Kelsey and pushed him into the elevator once it opened. It wasn’t until she began explaining that O’Brien was in a bad way that Liam’s smile completely left his face. After being told that O’Brien was in the burns unit on the fifth floor he had assumed as much, but hearing it out loud kind of made it real and he felt a tightening in his chest. He probably should have said something but found he couldn’t speak and simply nodded as the elevator doors opened and she was pushing him out. They stopped outside of Dean’s room where the curtains had been left open so that friends and family could check in on him. Liam sucked in a silent breath as his eyes landed on his friend, he didn’t appear to be conscious and bandages covered the man’s chest entirely, and a large gauze pad on his neck.He didn’t know for sure how bad the burns were, but he was guessing they were pretty bad and they must have been so because no firefighter ever went into a burning building unprotected. The dark haired male almost jumped as he felt a hand fall lightly to his shoulder giving it a gentle squeeze. Harper was already lifting her hand away and moving into the room before he could respond to the gesture but he had a feeling he didn’t need to. After a while of watching Harper doing her routine checks on Dean, Liam’s eyes moved away from the window and he searched for Dean’s family. They weren’t there but Liam knew they wouldn’t be far away, and it probably wasn’t the best time to talk to them, they would need their space to get their head around at what had happened to their son. It was always there in the background for friends and family of firefighters, that fear that they wouldn’t walk back out of that burning building in one piece or even alive. “Damn it, Dean.” Liam cursed, running his fingers through his hair, wincing as he accidentally touched a spot too close to his stitches. He wasn’t cursing or blaming his friend, he was simply cursing the situation and thinking how unfair it was that he was virtually okay and his best friend wasn’t. It was a crappy situation… Liam looked up as Doctor Harper emerged from Dean’s room and came to stand beside him. “He doesn’t deserve this you know - I mean, no one does...but Dean...he’s such a good guy, always had my back…” Liam wasn’t sure why he was telling her all of this, but in a small way it felt better to open up, and the fact that she was a stranger somehow made it easier. Liam sighed heavily and looked up at the woman standing beside him with a shrug. “It’s the job I guess. Fire- it’ll get you when you least expect it.” That was their motto at the station, and a reminder that they always had to be careful because open flames were as unpredictable as even the most ferocious storms.
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Post by emtkxx on Apr 27, 2016 3:32:14 GMT -8
Walking into the spectacularly clean and white room- only machines being heard hard at work. Emily didn't dare look out that window at the other patient. She felt like he would break her professional composer- a child had done that on her first day after losing a parent. It was hard not to take a little piece of every job that got placed in your hands. These were lives, some so precious yet so fragile.
Taking a peak at the burn at the neck; making sure his breathing and pulse were fine. She couldn't imagine how much engird it would take to break normally with a damaged throat, even if your lungs were fine, and unfortunately he had only one good one at the moment. Finishing up her routine, she delicately place a hand on his good hand and closed her eyes. Silently getting him strength, and then left the room. Eyes on the clipboard and writing down O'Brien's current condition- they had to do this hour. It was easier to track progress with patients whom were intensive care. Stopping beside the wheelchair she followed the direction of Mr. Bradey's eyes and couldn't help but feel the distance. To feel helpless of the damaged man inside- this is why she hated these windows. They basically made you sit back and see what you couldn't do to help the person.
Twirling a loose strand of hair, listening to her patient attentively- Hearing his small voice made her want to hug him though and take him away from the sight of his comrade. he needed an ear. However, right now he needed someone unbiased and that wouldn't sugarcoat it. Feeling his eyes bore into her, her stormy blues now clashed against his hazel and she had to control her lips from forming into a sad frown. He was right, Dean O'Brien didn't deserve this, no one did. His life would never be the same. All she could simply do was nod at hearing, "It’s the job I guess. Fire- it’ll get you when you least expect it." A few seconds passed before the young doctor found her voice, "Yes well... he's like you, a fighter and doesn't give up easily. Also has a sense of humour- called my male colleague an angel when he first broke unconsciousness." And it was true, Lansley had popped into the staffroom for water slightly mortified because he'd never been called that before, and Linda and her howled with laughter.
"If you want I can tell you when he wakes up; he'll be in my care after Doctor Lansley goes home for the day," And she meant every word- she would come tell this man his friend had finally opened his eyes. The way Liam Bradely looked and wounded- they were more than just coworkers. Looking back into the room with her little mask of composure; Emily couldn't stand here much longer or she'd slip up. "I think that's enough for now. You should rest, Mr. Bradley," The brunette's voice soft and soothing, heading foe the handlebars of his wheelchair and added, "You need your strength for when he wakes up." Taking him back towards the elevator she pressed the down button and stared as the floor numbers glowed.
Emily couldn't wait to snuggle in her bed and dream all this away, but she knew when she opened her eyes it would all be back. But no matter how much this took from her mentally and emotionally, she would never give it up. It was far to rewarding in a sense to keep lives together. Slipping them into the empty elevator, and pressing the right number- she couldn't help the little sigh that escaped her lips.
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Post by Serendipity on Apr 27, 2016 23:08:43 GMT -8
It was true that Dean knew the risks of his job, they all knew them, although it didn’t make it any easier when they happened. Liam broke his gaze from Doctor Harper’s and took one last look in through the window at his friend, he felt his chest grow heavy again, he really wanted to talk to Dean and reassure him that they would all be there for him whatever he needed. Despite the heaviness of the situation, Doctor Harper had him smiling and looking back up at her as she told him that Dean had a sense of humor, and he’d referred to one of her colleagues as an ‘angel’. “It’s the lights,” Liam pointed out with a small laugh. “They’re so damned bright, it probably looked like a halo around your colleague if he was standing over him at the time.” The firefighter explained, thinking the way that Dean might of at the time if he’d woken up to one of the doctors standing over him with the bright light behind him. “Or he was just really concussed.” Liam added with a small shrug, either way it was pretty funny. “I’d appreciate that very much.” Liam nodded at Emily’s offer. At the same time a frowned a little, just briefly as he calculated the time in his head, if she was still going to be here after Doctor Lansley had finished his shift then she’d been here a very long time. Didn’t she need sleep too? Liam voiced his concern, “When do you get to go home and sleep? It seems like an extremely long shift you’re doing.” It was just an observation, she mightn’t have been here as long as he’d thought, but it still didn’t mean that she wasn’t tired. “Thank you for letting me visit.” Liam said as he was pushed into the elevator, he was extremely grateful for being able to check in on his friend. Davis was next, but it sounded like that was going to have to wait until later, besides Kelsey had said he was getting his hand operated on so he’d be in surgery for a while. As the elevator got moving they were both quiet waiting for it to land on the correct floor, Liam lost in his thoughts a little thinking of everything that had happened, or the bits he could remember. “Hey, Doc...Has anyone told you exactly what happened?” He asked out of curiosity just as the doors opened and she was wheeling him back out. He could always call his Captain again and ask.
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Post by emtkxx on Apr 28, 2016 3:19:58 GMT -8
Emily stared wide eyed down at him- did she really look that tired? Then again he seemed more concerned than anything which was sort of funny; the patient caring for the doctor, what a switch in roles. Although Mr. Bradey was a firefighter so it was probably natural for him to want to protect the well being of someone else, like her. "I'm just staying a few hours late to fill in for another Doctor- they're sick so we're all taking on a few extra hours to make up for it," The young brunette wasn't sure if she could agree that she was tired; her senior would probably think it was unprofessional. However, Emily believed that you should create a friendly atmosphere with patients. It helped them heal quicker and to be honest, not hate hospitals so much. She didn't know how many people hated hospitals until her started training here, and it peeved her a little at first. But now she's starting to understand everyone has their reasons. "Not at all, I'm glad you came and checked on your friend."Deciding to just be honest- it would be nice for them to get along until he left on more than a stiff doctor-patient level. Laughing to herself, "Oh gosh, I can't remember the last time I had a really good sleep. I guess that's the price of the job though, and well, being the youngest one on the team." A ding rang through the small elevator and the doors slide open to mild chaos- a small accident had come in right after her shift. Gliding them towards his room, cautious of all the workers running around; Emily quickly added on to what she was saying earlier, "I don't mind though... I couldn't imagine not working here." The brunette knew her eyes were probably light and warm- her father had always pointed out the look she got when speaking of her occupation. She truly did love it- the good and the bad. Just outside his room- he questioned her about that night, “Hey, Doc...Has anyone told you exactly what happened?” That threw her off, but he did suffer from a mild concussion and still hadn't gotten those memories back. Contemplating on wether or not the Senior Doctor should tell him; sometimes information like that can cause the patient to freak out. Flash backs can bring on anxiety and fear. Wheeling him into the room, holding out an arm Emily helped him into bed. Maneuvering around carefully, she made sure he was hooked up to the proper machines and then spoke, "Yes I know a few of the details, but you've had quite the day and should rest a little." Grabbing the wheelchair on her way out- Emily glanced over her shoulder, "Do you like coffee? I'll come at the end of my shift and fill you in. If you would like that, I mean." The young doctor felt weird asking that; it was her first time. She knew they were allowed to if they wanted, Linda did it all the time with people who'd lost their memories. Just before and or after your shift was best, just so you could give them that time- some took longer to absorb and asked for their doctors to stay with them a little longer. Plus being able to take the white coat off with the person made them more at ease. Hearing his response, Emily couldn't help the small smile that formed on her face. Saying goodbye she entered the busy hallway. "Harper we could use a few more hands!" It was Linda's voice that had called, sighing she passed off the wheelchair off to the closest nurse and mad her way to the heart of the mess.
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Leaning against her locker exhausted from her shift- had it be two or eleven hours long? Shaking her head she slide the white coat off and hung it in her locker delicately, not wanting it to wrinkle too much, or she'd have to get it dry-cleaned. Which had already happened a few days ago. Changing into a salt n' peppered knit sweater, light washed jeans - she usually kept a change of clothes in her locker. To use when walking around the hospital off duty, and or when there was something she had to attend right after work. It just made everything more simple in her slightly hectic life.
Exiting the locker room, Emily waved at a few nurses while making her way to get coffee. For the life of her she couldn't remember if Mr. Bradey had said yes or no to her caffeine question. So she got him one just incase, and if he didn't drink it she would most definitely be all over it! The brunette snickered at herself- she definitely had a coffee problem. "And who's the other coffee for?" A older woman's voice took Emily from her thoughts, "Oh, Doctor Owens! I'm just going to fill in Mr. Bradey which I had mentioned earlier." The older woman cocked an eyebrow and then smiled, "Well better not keep that cute fireman waiting." The brunette gaped at her senior but soon laughed, she loved how friendly and honest her team was. Well at least the women, some of the men could be a little reserved, but there had to be a few of them.
She found his problem with ease at this point; she knocked and peeked in, making sure he was decent, before entering. "Hope I'm not intruding..." Her cheeks burned a little, why did she feel so embarrassed? Smiling and holding up the coffees, "I couldn't remember if you wanted one or not, sorry." Placing them on his end-table and tugging a chair close to his bed side; she plopped herself down. She had to stop herself from moaning- it had been hours since she had sat down. "Now up to what point don't you remember, Mr. Brady?" Emily asked before taking a sip from her drink and beamed a smile at him.
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Post by Serendipity on Apr 28, 2016 17:49:04 GMT -8
Maybe pointing out that he thought she looked tired wasn’t the most gentlemanly thing to do, but it was out now and he couldn’t take it back. Thankfully she didn’t seem that upset at him for pointing it out. She was a doctor after all, long hours came with the territory - as she explained. He could definitely relate to that, he had pulled many long hours over the years, but he’d never had anyone point out how tired he’d looked after them. He always made sure to steer clear of his mother after those long shifts because she worried too much. “I feel the same about my job, even if I’ve become a little sleep deprived - and ended up in hospital.” Liam nodded, he understood the same feeling she felt about her job. He wouldn’t change his for anything, and she was the same. He couldn’t remember a time where he’d had a good eight hours straight, he always became so busy sometimes the days all blended into one. Whether she was going to be able to tell him what happened or not he didn’t know, she might be overstepping the boundaries of her job. He didn’t want to get her in trouble and sensing her hesitation he was about to tell her that he could find out from someone else but she was already speaking before he could. Rest in return for finding out what had happened? Liam could handle that and nodded in agreement. “Fair enough, and I’d like that.” Yes, he would like to see her again. “Coffee sounds good.” He answered as she helped him back into bed once they had reached his room. He managed to get back into the bed without too much trouble, it hurt to move but he kept the pain from his face. Once he was back in bed the doctor was quickly saying goodbye, and he felt a little bad that maybe he had been taking up too much of her time. ---- ---- ---- ---- ----Back in his room and back in bed Liam didn’t have much to do but rest as the Doctor had suggested. His mother wasn’t back yet with his clothes, but she’d probably back in later that night. He’d had to take one of the oxycontin that the doctor had prescribed him when the pain became a little too much though. He didn’t mind taking them if it meant he would feel more comfortable. Liam looked up as the door to his room opened and a familiar figure was walking in, she was out of her doctor's coat and scrubs now indicating that she was officially off duty for the rest of the day. He returned her smile and sat up a little straight against the pillows as she approached, two coffees in hand. “Thanks.” He nodded as she handed him over one of the cups, he immediately took a sip and sighed, he hadn’t had a caffeine hit in what felt like forever. It wasn’t bad coffee either. “I remember going inside the building because we’d lost radio communication, and I’d just made it to the eighteenth floor when I was met with a wall of fire. I heard the sound of something snapping, and that’s it. I don’t know if the floor went out from underneath me or if a beam fell on me.” He explained with a slight shrug.
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Post by emtkxx on Apr 28, 2016 18:22:57 GMT -8
Listening to him attentively, Emily snuggled into the plush visitor's chair and sipped on her coffee. Tugging on a lose strand of hair she curled it around her finger- eyes taking the man in. He must have taken an oxycontin, or perhaps a nurse had come in and given him morphine? It had been a few hours since she'd last seen him, but he looked a little more rested. Plus the way he was sitting up indicated he didn't feel his back one bit. He definitely had something for the pain. Cupping her coffee in both hands and fixing her posture, "So nothing after that? No slight images or visions popping up..." The brunette questioned, trying to get him to think a little harder sometime's it help the patient's memory- a little push or boost.
However that seemed to do nothing and she eyes her warm drink; watching the liquid dance as she tilted the come side to side. Contemplating her words wisely- she only had one time to say it properly or it might set him off horribly. Mr. Brady didn't seem the type to lose his shit, but you never knew in these rooms. Eyes trailing back up to the handsome man Emily began to explain, "From what was reported; the upper floor above you had collapsed causing the floor beneath you to give out as well. Davis was on the floor above you and had collapsed with you, and O'Brien... He got stuck on the twentieth floor." Pausing she to let him take in the information she took a long pull from her drink- throat feeling incredibly dry all of a sudden.
Trying to look at anywhere than the man currently lying in front of her, but soon her indifferent facial expression fell onto him. And she could see the confusion flash to terror, was he remembering that awful situation? Fidgeting with her cup Emily had to put it down on the table before she dropped the hot liquid on her lap. "Mr. Bradey, you were found under part of a kitchen from above- that's why you have such a nasty bruise across your back and up your spine. You're lucky your back wasn't broken," Her tone soothed, but held an edge of seriousness. He had said he loved his job-as much as she loved hers. However, his job was much dangerous than hers. She tried to save lives and he put his life on the line for others. He could have died.
From the look on his face he was a tad overwhelmed. Which was completely understandable due to the circumstances. Hesitantly Emily gently put her hand on his forearm and spoke, "These details are not important anymore- you're alive and well. And your coworkers, friends, are going to pull through too." Her stormy blue eyes sparkled with truth, she believed it wholeheartedly. Sliding her fingers off his skin Emily couldn't help but shiver from the current that ran through her body. What the hell; it was probably from the cool temperature of the hospital.
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Post by Serendipity on Apr 29, 2016 1:59:29 GMT -8
Sure the pain meds did their job, making it comfortable for Liam to move around a little easier but the aches were still there in the back ground. He looked at them as a reminder that he still needed to follow Doctor Harper's instructions and rest, and that's what he had been doing for the last few hours, only sitting up now as the doctor came back as promised to chat. It wasn't her job to fill him in on the details his mind was still landing out but he appreciated that she was willing too; he also appreciated her company...maybe a little too much. She was pretty and smart, caring and kind; and put her own woes last over looking after her patients. From the little he knew about her, Liam at least knew that she was a good person -and a good doctor. She was making it easier for him being stuck in a hospital bed, allowing him to visit his friends and keeping him updated on their progress whilst still looking after him as well. Now she had even bought him coffee and was snuggled up in the cushioned armchair beside his bed telling him how the floor above him had fallen and had trapped him under the kitchen area. He shivered a little, realising just how lucky he was to be alive and without a broken back. As she spoke he fell into his own thoughts, small flashes of orange flames flickering behind his hazel orbs. It slowly came back to him, at least the bits that he'd been conscious for until he had finally passed out. Liam could almost feel the heat of those flames on his face, causing a slight sweat to appear over his skin. He was lucky his suit had held out also, otherwise he might have been burned as Dean had. Liam was pulled out of those memories when he felt a gentle hand placed on his arm, and Emily’s voice reassuring him that he didn't need to worry about those details anymore. Automatically he reached over with his other hand and laid it on top of hers, his thumb grazing her knuckles back and forth. A few seconds later when he became aware of what he was doing he cleared his throat and pulled his hand away. “Sorry.” He murmured softly. “Thank you for filling in the blanks, it does help even if it's not pleasant to think about.” He said after taking another drink of his coffee. He looked down at it and then back over at the doctor. “I probably won't sleep well if I have the rest of this, you can have it, help you stay awake until you get home.” He offered, handing the cup over to the brunette if she wanted it. “By the way, I'd prefer if you called me Liam.” Mr. Bradey made him sound so old and formal.
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Post by emtkxx on Apr 29, 2016 5:00:02 GMT -8
Emily hadn't expected him to place his hand on hers as well; she had to keep the little gasp from escaping her lips from the sensation. Her mind scolded her, smarten the hell up, Em! Taking her cup again in both hands which helped her fingers from fidgeting- why was this man making her feel like a little school girl? She almost snorted and the thought and shook her head, she was far more tired than she thought. And now she was making was making this weird, "No, not at all. It's a lot to take in and technically I left the gesture open..." And it was true. However most who reciprocated it were little older ladies, mothers and or children-not firemen. The young doctor stayed silent after that not wanting to disturb him, but wanted him to know she was here. If he had any question she'd try her best to answer unless it was about his friends, that was confidential. Smiling at him- the brunette was happy she could help fill in the blanks. She couldn't imagine losing a span of time, especially with something as traumatic as his. Taking the cup from him she dumping the warm liquid into her almost empty one. All she could do was laugh- did she really look that exhausted? Taking another sip, "It's probably the bags under my eyes right?" Emily was clearly teasing the guy who'd call her out twice now, but it held no malice. She knew he was being genuine; you could see it in his eyes. They held a certain warmth that clashed with strength. And she didn't even want to describe his voice, the one that was asking her to call him by his first name. Leaning back in the chair ungracefully, Emily had never cared much about looking 'pretty and proper' all the time, and it killed her mother a little bit. Although momma Harper has got much better at accepting her daughter's nature. "Liam...?" The young woman murmured- it rolled off her tongue and into the air like a question. Doctors were allowed to call their patients by their first names if requested, but couldn't really give theirs out. But it felt odd not offering her's up too. "I can call you that if it makes you more comfortable," she added with a smile, tired smile. It was time for her to head home and get some well deserved sleep. Standing and placing the chair back in it's original place, "I'm glad we were able to clear up a few things for you. I'm going to head home now-I mean I must look like hell," The brunette snickered making her way to the door, but before leaving she glanced over, "And you can call me Emily... just not with my supervisors around. Goodbye, Liam."Slipping out she released a breath she didn't know she was holding. Why did she feel so anxious? From telling Mr. Bradey her first name; what was she twelve again or something? Emily sighed, she really needed sleep. Grabbing her stuff from the locker room and heading towards the front desk, she said her goodbyes to everyone on her way out.___ ___ ___ ___ ___ A new day, more like afternoon. Emily became dead to the world yesterday right when her head hit the pillow, and she dared anyone to try and make her feel guilty about it. Rolling out of bed, and slapping her little alarm clock- a hour and a half to get out the door and to work. Heading to the bathroom she smiled passing the mirror, she didn't look like the living dead today and that she actually slept like a normal person. That wasn't true by any means but no one needed to know that! Having a quick shower- she jumped out and tried to detangle her long wavy man. She decided on leaving it down for work; that's when Mr. Bradey popped into her mind, how was he doing? Well she'd no soon enough- shaking him from her thoughts she quickly went to find clothes to wear. It didn't really matter when you were wearing a large white coat at all times. Once that was done, Emily was back in the washroom applying a light amount of makeup and then heading to the kitchen to fix herself breakfast. Her stomach was literally yelling to be fed! Munching on her eggs and toast, she looked up at the clock over the microwave, twenty minutes before she had to be out the door. Cleaning up her dishes and making sure her coffee mug was secure, Emily was out the door. The sun felt amazing against her skin; she would have to take some time off to head to the beach, the weather was getting too nice to ignore. The drive wasn't bad, there wasn't much rush hour around three in the afternoon. "Harper, looking good," She was greeted a few steps into her workplace, rolling her eyes, "Shut it Carson." The guy was a tremendous flirt, a few years older than her and hadn't gotten the hint. She didn't want to be a notch on his bedpost. He chuckled at her as she passed by and made her way to the locker room. She made sure to give a pleasant hello to the front desk ladies though! Once she looked like a doctor ready for work she made her way to the floor, "Hey Kathy." Emily spoke punching in her name and time, officially on duty. The salt n' pepper hard lady smiled, "Hello Emily, hope it not too rough of a day on you." The woman was sweet as pie and they always had a small conversation before Emily went to do her rounds.
About an hour in she was finally able to see Mr. Bradey- she wasn't excited because he was deviously good-looking or anything. And if someone pointed that out she'd plead the fifth! "Oh, Harper... is it really time for me to leave?" Linda snapped the younger doctor from her thoughts- Emily started when she was suppose to leave. "Clocking in extra hours?" The older woman gave her a face, "Not at all, just lost track of time! I have kids to pick up. Take over with Mr. Bradey for me; I mean your literally two doors away." The woman now gave her a knowing smile- Emily's cheeks flared in heat and she grabbed the clipboard. "Yeah yeah, get out of here," Emily countered making her supervisor laugh a goodbye. The brunette gave herself a few minutes to calm down before knocking and entering the man's room.
Emily peeked in with a shy smile- still a bundle of nerves because of what Linda said, damn that woman! "Good afternoon Mr.-Liam. Sorry it might take me awhile to get use to that," She stated warmly, looking down at his information. He'd had his MRI early this morning and everything checked out fine. "Has your back been giving you any problems?" Emily asked at the end of the bed now, eyes taking him in. He had different clothes on. Did his mother bring them, or possibly a girlfriend? It didn't state he had a wife on paperwork- okay she needed to stop being creepy. ""I also have your MRI results and there's no damage. I believe you are one lucky man," And it was true, most came out completely broken after a kitchen set falling on top of them. Not to mention a whole flooring. Lifting his result, she saw the discharge papers-he was finally getting freedom. It almost felt sad noting seeing him anymore; he was easy on the eyes and seemed like he had a good personality. Then again, she barely knew him and one of his many doctors. "I also need you to sign these. Looks like you're getting out early," She grinned passing him the papers.
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Post by Serendipity on Apr 30, 2016 17:51:08 GMT -8
Liam had forgotten, in that moment, that they were doctor and patient and there was a line that shouldn’t - perhaps even couldn’t- be crossed. He had only meant the gesture as a friendly thank you for filling in the blanks for him. He hadn’t meant to make her feel uncomfortable, which was why he’d apologised. Whether he had made her uncomfortable or not it was hard to tell, she shrugged it off easily enough, but he hoped he hadn’t. He wasn’t that creepy guy who hit on every woman he came across. He did laugh as she took his cup, pouring into her own joking about the bags under her eyes. “They’re not that bad.” He grinned, catching her teasing tone. “Nothing a good night's rest can't fix.” He added. Liam hadn’t meant to make her feel bad about being tired - she didn't look bad at all - just tired. She was preparing to leave, she was tired and it was time for her to go home. He felt a little disappointed that she was leaving, but he understood that she couldn’t stay, she had certainly done enough for one day and deserved a good night's sleep. It would just mean that he would be alone again - at least until his mother came with his change of clothes. Liam was used to being alone, it didn’t mean that he liked it - which was why he had Hugo so he would never truly be alone. “See you tomorrow, Emily.” He said goodbye, nodding as she informed him that he couldn’t use her first name in front of her supervisors. ---- ---- ---- ---- ----His mother came back with a bag of fresh clean clothes for him a few hours later after Emily had left, and he was glad for the company - even if it was his mother fussing over him. She’d bought her famous macaroni and cheese bake in with her and after checking with one of the nurses Liam dug in. He hadn’t realised how hungry he had been until he’d started eating. “Thanks mom. I wasn’t keen on trying out the hospital food.” His mother laughed with a little nod of agreement. An hour later she left promising she would be back the next day once she’d finished work and Liam was able to shower and change into a pair of long cotton pajama pants and singlet that felt far more comfortable than in the hospital gown he’d been wearing. The pain meds helped him move around long enough for the shower and to get dressed, but he was back to bed once he’d finished not wanting to push his luck. He decided to try and get some sleep himself, and it came after a little while. It felt like he’d only slept a few hours before he was being woken up, a nurse explaining that they were taking him to get his MRI. Liam rubbed a hand over his eyes wishing he could have had an extra hour or two but he didn’t protest and got out of bed and into the wheelchair waiting for him. Liam cooperated through the process of the MRI but he was glad when it was over and he was back in his room, now all he had to do was wait, wait for the results to see if there was anything else wrong with him. He was growing bored, he hated just sitting around and waiting, yesterday hadn’t been so bad he’d had Doctor Harper to keep him company and then his mother later that night. Now he just had himself, and he was growing restless. Liam looked up quickly as he heard the door to his room open, he expected to see a nurse, but was pleased to see Doctor Harper step into his room. She was back on shift and had come to check on him. Her smile was welcomed with one of his own, he was happy to see her. “Good afternoon, Emily.” Liam nodded and sat up, swinging his legs over the side of the bed. When she asked about his back he shook his head. “No it’s been fine.” He informed her truthfully, it was still bruised and sore of course but the pain hadn’t become worse so he figured that was a good sign that it was all okay. He was relieved that the MRI results had come back normal and there was nothing to worry about. He frowned, just a little, as she held out the clipboard of papers to him explaining that he needed to sign them. He was being discharged early since they hadn’t found anything wrong on his MRI. “Great.” He nodded and took the board and pen she offered, quickly signing his name on the bottom before handing them back to her. “It’ll be nice to get home.” He smiled. But not so nice that he’d have no excuse to see her...
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Post by emtkxx on May 3, 2016 17:55:58 GMT -8
Emily nodded her head in understanding- who would rather be in a hospital bed than their own comfy one? No one, that's who. She was about to open her mouth when the door swung open behind her, "Doctor Harper, we have a problem!" It had been Kelsey- the one whom had been helping Liam to the burn unit before Emily took over. She would have to reprimand the younger woman later, she wan't suppose to barge into a room without knocking; what if Liam had been an older patient with a heart issue? What had just happened could of thrown them into shock. Turning to look at the woman with a brow arched, "What's going on Miss. Neil?" The blonde took a few breaths before revealing the information, "One of the patients in the Burn unit..." Kelsey didn't finish her sentence- eyes falling on Mr. Bradey, and Emily knew exactly who she was speaking of.
Taking charge of the situation, "Kelsey stay here with L-Mr. Bradey. He's just finishing up paperwork and then bring it to the front desk. Also grab Doctor Lansley so he can finish up Mr. Bradey's discharge." The intern shook her headed wildly as the young doctor passed her; glancing over her shoulder Emily nodded her head towards Liam before leaving for the burn unit. She hoped the other patient had gone into Toxic Shock. That was common who open wounds- even if they cleaned the damn things a million times a day. Getting off the elevator she rushed towards Mr. O'Brien's room. A few nurses surrounded him in a frenzy and his heart monitor was off the charts, and he was wheezing for air. He was drowning- he needed air! "We need to clear his lungs!" Emily cried catching the attention of her co-workers and started to direct them what to do.
It had taken them two hours to get Mr. O'Brien stabilized, but they did it. Whipping a bit of sweat of her forehead and taking a deep breath, Emily felt the adrenaline draining from her body. Looking over the man once more, "Stay with for a few more minutes; after that he needs to be checked up on every half a hour." She had directed that to the knew staff member who'd entered the room, all the nurses who had aided her deserved a small break to decompress and gather their bearings. Leaving the room, she looked at her red stained hands. Some of his wounds had opened up while she had been hard at work to get air in his lungs. The brunette would never get used to seeing other peoples blood on her hands. It was going to be a long, long day.
––– ––– ––– ––– –––Scratch that, it had been a very long week. Emily hadn't been more grateful for two days off since the beginning of her university life, but even then her body wasn't as worn out as now. And she didn't even want to mention the emotional and mental fatigue. However, it was a new Wednesday morning and she was ready to go! "You're far too happy at ten in the morning. It's annoying," Linda mumbled, then again she was just getting off from an all-nigter so the brunette took no offence. "Hope you have a good sleep," Emily called over her shoulder making Linda pat her back before heading home. From the looks of it nothing eventful had happened the few days she had been gone; the hospital almost seemed dead, which was a nice pace for once.
The young doctor started to make her rounds and couldn't help her thoughts from drifting to Mr. Bradey, as she passed his now vacant room. I wonder how he's doing, she hadn't seen him since giving him his discharge forms. He had been gone by the time she stopped by to say goodbye. Then again, why wait around if you could get the hell out of there? His hazel eyes flashed into her mind- smiling to herself Emily shook her head for being so ridiculous. He had been her patient; Liam wasn't just a piece of meat. Even if he was a highly attractive man. He also probably wasn't single- how could he be? One of the interns had called out and told her Doctor McKay had asked for a pair of extra hands. Emily almost frowned at the thought- that man wasn't very fond of her. Due to the fact she was one of the youngest hired doctors they had ever had. Off to work she went!
A few hours flew by; they weren't unbearable- except for when McKay had treated her like an intern and as if she did;t know how to do her job. But she had learned how to ignore his attitude by now. Standing in the staff room, she was taking a five minute coffee break before heading back out there. Today had stayed fairly quiet except for the few woman who'd gone into labour. That was never a dull moment. "Doctor Harper?" Emily knew it was Kelsey's voice- the girl had taken to following her around, "Yes, Miss. Neil?" The brunette sipped her coffee waiting for Kelsey to say her piece, "Um... Mr. Bradey is here, and asking for you." Emily nearly spit out her coffee upon hearing that, was she hearing this? Liam was here, and asking for her?
The look on her face told Kelsey to explain, "Oh, he's not feeling very well! Some chest pain and a nasty cough... I told him it wasn't you're job to fix a common cold, but he insisted on seeing you." Emily couldn't help but laugh, that man was insane. He had a cold and actually came to her to diagnose him. She had to wipe tears from her eyes because she had laughed so hard. "Thanks Kelsey. Bring him to room 101, and tell him I'll be right with him," The blond looked at her like she had three heads, but did as she was told. Quickly heading to the small bathroom connected to the staff room, she fixed herself up- tugging at her light cream knit top to get rid of wrinkles and making sure she had no marks on her coat and dark denim jeans.
Making her way out to him now- she couldn't help but feel nervous. And she never felt nervous when meeting a patient. Snap out of it! Emily yelled in her head before entering the room, and no she didn't have to catch her breath when her eyes met his. Okay, maybe just a little. "Mr. Bradey... I was told you have a cold?" A smile started to form and she put a hand on her hip, showing how amused she was at the situation. "Well tell me your symptoms and I'll see what I can do for you," Her voice was light and warm as she moved closer to the bed he sat on.
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Post by Serendipity on May 4, 2016 22:04:50 GMT -8
It would be nice to get home, if only to see Hugo, and have things go back to his normal routine. Liam was happy he was healthy enough to leave the hospital, his only issue with leaving was the strange feeling he got over the idea of not seeing Emily again. Once he was discharged he would never see her again, he’d have no reason too and that...well, that sucked. There was something about the woman he found intriguing, he wanted to get to know her, he wanted to touch her again… Liam was pulled quickly out of his drifting thoughts as someone burst into the room calling for Doctor Harper. Liam hadn’t quite finished signing the papers he needed to to be able to leave but his attention was drawn to Kelsey and the urgent expression on her face. It was about Dean, he knew it was the moment she mentioned the burn unit. Liam rose quickly from the bed, concern for his friend washing over him but sat back down as Emily rushed off. Liam didn't want to get in the way of their work, and as much as he’d wanted to rush off after them he knew he would just be in the way. Once he was alone in the room he realised he hadn't had the opportunity to say a proper goodbye to Emily - or possibly ask her out. Damn it! He cursed silently before heaving a sigh because there was nothing he could do about it. Another Doctor came in a few minutes later and finalised Liam’s discharge just in time for his sister's arrival. She was picking him up and would drop him off at the station so he could collect his truck and drive himself home. “Ready?” Samantha asked after the Doctor left and helped him with his bag. “Ready as I'll ever be. I just want to check something first…” Of course they couldn't tell him how O’Brien was because he wasn't family, he should have known that but he’d had to ask regardless. He truly hoped that his friend was okay and whatever the ‘problem’ was. Liam would make sure he called O’Brien’s wife and checked with her a little later that everything was alright. His sister dropped him off at the station after they stopped somewhere to have lunch, and Liam didn’t immediately go home. He was met with cheer from his colleagues when he arrived and decided to hang around for a quick catch up chat. They all wanted to know how he was and he knew it would do them good to put their minds at ease, though they still had Davis and O’Brien to worry about. When he did finally get home he was met by a very excited, tail wagging, Hugo. The german shepard had missed him, that was easy enough to tell, and Liam spent a good amount of time reassuring the animal that he was back to stay. ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ----This was ridiculous! He was ridiculous. Who really did this kind of stuff? Liam couldn’t help scolding himself as he waited in room 101 for Doctor Emily Harper. The nerves were getting to him now that it was actually happening, he still couldn’t believe he had really talked himself into checking himself into the hospital for a cold just to see her. She was either going to extremely pissed that he was wasting her time or highly amused - if she even showed up. Liam had tried calling the hospital to get the Doctor’s details but for privacy reasons they wouldn’t give them to him, which he had figured would be the case anyway but he’d tried regardless. He’d then asked if he could speak to her if she was free but had been told that she was busy with her patients. So the only other option Liam had, if he wanted to see her again, was to show up at the hospital in person and ask for her. That was when they’d asked him what was wrong and fearing that they would send him away if he told them he just wanted to speak to her, he had blurted out that he had cold - oh and chest pains. The chest pain part had come after the nurse had given him a look that said ‘are you kidding me’ and he knew she would send him away. It was hard to be charming to a male nurse - unless you were that way inclined and Liam wasn’t otherwise he wouldn’t be in pretending to have a common cold in order to ask Doctor Harper out. With the downtime he’d had from work whilst his back was still healing he’d had plenty of time to mull over his time in the Doctor’s care and quite frankly he couldn’t get her out of his mind. Even Hugo wasn’t able to distract him enough, and Liam had burnt his relationship bridges a long time ago from the other women he’d ever dated so they couldn’t even be a distraction for him either. He wanted to see Emily again and find out if there really was something there between them that he’d thought he’d felt whilst being her patient. This was creepy. She was going to think he was some kind of stalker-creep! He scolded himself again, pacing the room slowly as the minutes ticked by. Since he was only on desk duty at work he wore jeans and a dark blue t-shirt with the stations emblem stitched on the corner. Liam stopped pacing and took a breath, bringing his hands up into his hair as he quietly talked himself into staying put and to not be a coward. He’d probably pulled her away from something important and the least he could do was face the music so to speak. When he heard the door open a few seconds later he dropped his hands by his side and turned around, his hazel eyes falling on the woman he had been waiting for. Upon seeing her some of his doubt slipped away and he returned her smile, faking a cough as she mentioned the cold he was supposed to have. “Liam, please.” He quickly reminded her of the conversation they had about using his first name. “My symptoms...well, there’s this fluttering in my stomach, it really feels quite strange and my palms have started sweating a bit. There’s also this light airy feeling in my chest and my heart is pounding…” He informed her slowly, moving a couple of steps closer as he did. He wasn’t describing any cold symptoms and she would clue onto that pretty quickly, and by the frown she was giving him she already had. What he was describing was his nerves, something he hadn’t felt in a while if he was being honest with himself. “I’m sorry I lied about having a cold.” He said. “I just needed an excuse to see you, we didn’t get to say a proper goodbye before I was discharged. And I wanted to thank you for everything…” And ask you out - He needed to ask her out, but that could wait for a little while longer, until he had some idea if she would actually want to go out with him.
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Post by emtkxx on May 5, 2016 19:01:12 GMT -8
"Right, Liam..." His name rolled off her tongue, she had forgotten that he had asked them to be on a first name basis. It had been a busy week. Emily's professional mask nearly slipped when he coughed- it sounded nowhere near seriously enough to be in a hospital. However he was definitely putting on a good show, she'd give him that at least. Shuffle from foot to foot, eyebrow still raised at him as she would to any patient lying to her- two could play at this game. Popping her pen off the clipboard Emily started to jot down everything he was saying. His explanation made him sound love-sick, not the case of a common cold. That's when it clicked. The brunette's mind started racing. Liam, was he really hitting on her? She kept her eyes on the clipboard trying to keep composed, she wasn't sure if she should laugh or play coy. It wasn't like he was trying to hide the fact he was being smooth, too smooth in fact. Never in her life had a guy come up to her with this kind of opening. It was kind of endearing.
Mentally slapping herself, you need to play it cool. Lifting her stormy eyes to clash with his hazel ones- Emily let a small frown to develop on her face. However, it almost cracked when he tried to explain himself. The young doctor could already tell the fireman wasn't much of a liar, which wasn't a bad thing in her books. It was actually a very good quality! Deciding it was time to finish her charade her frown turned into a teasing smile, "I see..." Clinging her clipboard to her chest now, "Sorry Liam, but I already knew from your cough. You should really brush up on your acting skills." Emily tilt her head to the side and beamed a smile at him now.
So he had been thinking about her just as much, well she could only assume so, but why would he be here then if not? Shaking her head at him, "You could have asked the head desk to contact me and I would have met you there. You didn't need to fake a cold- but you definitely had Kelsey fooled, or maybe she was just being lenient with you. I wonder why," The brunette spoke thoughtfully, all the staff new the blonde intern had her eyes on Liam- she wouldn't stop talking about him to the other intern. And gossip spreads quick at the workplace. That's why Emily kept her thoughts of the man to herself.
"I'm glad to see you again... you look like you're healing well," Her voice sweet as honey- eyes twinkling at him. When had he gotten so close? Taking a step back to clear her head- she needed to create some more space between them. Last thing she needed was a superior walking in and thinking something. Even if there was something going on. Right she was at work, and was currently not doing her job. "You don't need to thank me, Liam," Her face suddenly felt hot; Emily had never gotten used to being thanked over doing her job. It was what she did, try and save lives. Crushing the small wooden piece closer to her chest, "I-uh... Sorry I can't talk for much longer. I'm still on duty." And she was being honest, even if she'd rather stay here and stare into his gorgeous hazel eyes instead. A few moments passed and then she added, "But I can give you my number... if you'd like to talk or see how your friends are doing!" It all came out in a blur, and she almost smacked herself for sounding so lame.
Emily was definitely out of practise when it came to giving her number out, and or even remotely trying to be smooth towards the opposite sex. She hadn't had much time during the years, and no she understood why her mother bugged her so much. She really did need to get back out there. Scribbling her number down on a small piece of scrap paper from her clipboard Emily gingerly handed it to him. Tucking a piece of hair behind her ear, "It really was great to see you. How about I walk you out?"
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Post by Serendipity on May 11, 2016 18:22:45 GMT -8
Liam had been holding his breath a little as he watched for her reaction after describing his ‘symptoms’ to her, which he and she both knew were not cold symptoms. He let his breath out silently and laughed as Emily promptly told him that he had bad acting skills. At least she was seeing the humor in his lie, and he relaxed knowing that she wasn’t pissed off for dragging her away from her work. His smile broadened with the knowledge that she wasn’t mad and the possibility that this visit wouldn’t be a failed attempt to ask her out. “Right, the main desk…” He nodded slowly as she explained he could have gone there to ask them to call her and not the small nurse's station he had gone too. He would remember that for next time.
Emily’s mention of Kelsey being lenient with him went unnoticed, he hadn’t picked up on any signs that she might have liked him, then again he’d had someone else on his mind so it was easy for him to miss them. “It’s nice to see you again, Emily. I was afraid I wouldn’t get the chance.” He said, not moving any closer than he already had as she took a step back and he was reminded of personal space. She looked a little flustered, but the smile was still on her face so that was a good sign. “I do feel better,” He acknowledged with a small nod as she pointed out that he looked like he was healing nicely, the bruises had started to fade and it was probably almost time that the stitches on the side of his forehead could come out.
When she told him that she was still on duty so she couldn’t talk he understood that she was busy and could possibly get in trouble for talking to him and he didn’t want to get her in trouble, that was the last thing that he wanted. He did feel a little disappointed though that they couldn’t talk for long, but his spirits lifted when she offered to give him her number so that they could when she wasn’t on duty. He hadn’t even had to ask for it which could have been an indication that she also wanted to see him again, that she may have felt that same connection he had and wanted to explore it further. “Great, I’d really like to talk to you some more.” He grinned, almost like a school boy with his first crush as she handed him the scribbled piece of note with her number on it. He glanced at it briefly before tucking it into his pocket, he would put it in his phone - which he’d left in his truck- later.
“Sure.” Liam smiled as Emily offered to walk him out, at least he would get another few minutes with her before he had to let her get back to her job. Liam moved around her to open the door and followed her through it before making sure to close it behind him as they got moving.
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Post by emtkxx on May 12, 2016 17:23:48 GMT -8
Emily tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear bashfully; she hadn't expected him to take it and with such a handsome grin. Nodding lightly, "Yeah... it would be nice to chat some time." She wanted to slap herself for such a lame response but she couldn't help it! Yes, she had been hit on before but that was at bars or much older men that she had no business being with. Outside of that she's had her head buried in books or in work. Her eyes watched Liam as he maneuvered around her to open the door, "Thank you." Her voice grateful for his chivalry, and made her way out into the hall. That's when his friends popped into her mind, Davis and O'Brien. Smiling she glanced over at the slightly older man and spoke, "I'm not sure if you heard but O'Brien is fully conscience now. They brought him out of the coma and he seems... really good, actually. He's a trooper; you all are it seems." And she was speaking the truth- most men were babies about being in the hospital but when it came to the team of firefighters they all did what they were told. And smiled to know they were still alive. "Doctor Harper! We have a problem with Ms. Welsh," A young man called out to her from down the hall; that darn woman was always causing problem! You'd think a ninety year old woman would just stay in bed and rest, but no. She was always sneaking off or badmouthing the nurses. Sighing, "Sorry Liam but duty calls. It was nice seeing you." The brunette confessed with a smile and twirled around on her heel to get back to work. Glancing over her shoulder Emily lifted a hand and added, "Goodbye!" Once she reached the intern she could feel the intrigue rolling off of him, "Never mind that, where did she run off to this time?"
___ ___ ___ ___ ___ The noise of chatter filled the small coffeeshop- laughing and intense storytelling could be heard. Mrs B's Coffee and Cakes was a huge hit downtown, but Emily knew which times were best to come. The times that were most quiet, or as close to quiet as you can get in here. "So what's been going on outside of work? You finally have two days off!" Emily's friend, Heather, exclaimed digging into their shared piece of cheesecake. The brunette shrugged, "Same old, I guess." Her vague answer caused her friend to raise a brow and sit back in her chair. "Yeah right! I've known you since kindergarten-I know when something's up. So spill," the pixie haired woman said matter-of-factly making Emily mumbled something under her breath. Heather swatted at her, "Speak up, sweetie." They stared each other down playfully before Emily broke, "Fine... there may be a guy."
Heather squealed in delight and sat forward with bright eyes, "No way! My little girl has finally noticed the opposite sex; what's he like?" Emily rolled her eyes and leaned on the table with a coy smile, "He may or may not be a firefighter." That earned another squeal from her best friend and the young doctor couldn't help but laugh. "Calm down or you'll put yourself into labour," Emily teased making Heather snort, "Funny, I'm four months pregnant so that's not happening anytime soon. However, because of my situation I have to live through you. Now more about the firefighter!"
Emily filled her friend in on a few details; just how he used to be her patient and came in faking a cold to thank her. She almost had to cover Heather's mouth because her friend wouldn't stop shrieking. "Stop, everyone is staring at us!" Her short hair friend laughed at her embarrassment, "So have you called him then?" Now it was Emily's turn to sit back in her chair with a small frown, "No, I have no idea what to say!" Heather gave her a look, "All you say is hi and ask him to hang out." The brunette gave her a look right back, "I know that but- I don't know! He makes me nervous."
A few minutes of their staring game went on before Heather broke it, "Hand me your phone." Emily gave her a look of you can't be serious and knew Heather meant business when she held her hand out. "Give it here, pumpkin," her fingers wiggled making Emily groan, but she reluctantly gave her cellphone up. Trying not to fidget in her seat, Emily watched her friend anxiously- trying to keep her mouth shut from asking Heather what she was typing. After a few minutes her phone went off in her friend's hands and Heather smiled deviously before replying. "What?" Her nerves finally broke and Heather slid the phone across the table with a triumphant smile, "Lover boy is actually out with a friend right now, and he's coming here to have coffee with us."
The brunette gawked at the pixies haired woman across from her and squeaked out a response, "You invited him... now!" Heather nodded crossing her arms across her chest with a winning expression, "We should order another coffee." Emily groaned hiding her face in her hands- she was not prepared for this. She was in a comfy knit sweater that fell off one shoulder, light washed jeans and her hair was in a messy ponytail. "Oh stop, you look great! You always do," Heather's voice brought her out of her state of panic- how did she always do that? Read her mind.
The two friend fell into easy conversation; Heather calming Emily's nerves and assuring her everything would be fine. Emily wasn't sure how much time passed before a bing went off signalling someone was entering. Her light eyes danced to the entrance and twinkled seeing who it was. Heather's eyes followed in the direction and her jaw fell open, "Dear god, Emily he's gorgeous... if I wasn't married." Heather's comment made the brunette laugh and push her shoulder lightly, "It's rude to stare." Emily brought her attention back to their guest-well guests- and smiled, "Hello, Liam."
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Post by Serendipity on May 21, 2016 4:24:46 GMT -8
Crap. He’d missed his opportunity again to ask her out for coffee or dinner, sure he’d got her number but that hadn’t been the sole reason he’d faked an illness to come see her today. Now she was being called away, again, and since her job involved saving people’s lives he couldn’t ask her to continue walking him out. So with an inward sigh Liam let her rush off so she could do her job. “Goodbye, Dr Harper.” He waved goodbye, pausing to watch her go. He hoped that this wouldn’t be the last time he saw her. Once he reached his truck and climbed inside, he found his phone on the passenger seat where he’d left it and pulled out the scribbled bit of note from his pocket. Scraps of paper could get lost easily and this was a number he didn't want to lose so it was a good idea to save Emily in his contacts now before it went through the wash if he ended up leaving it in his pocket. But Liam didn’t message or call her straight away once he’d left the hospital, although he wanted to - but he figured Emily would be too busy to have time to check her phone. He decided to wait a day or two before he bothered her again, hopefully catching her on a day off. --- --- --- --- --- Work got in the way of any plans he’d had to call Emily. The next day, his captain explained that he wanted Liam to get a work capacity assessment done to see if he was able, and ready, to go back out there. There'd been no time to call Emily, but it didn't stop him thinking about her. Three days later and instead of calling Emily to arrange a date he was out with his sister helping her choose a new dining table - she’d also needed the use of his truck to get it home so she could avoid paying a delivery fee. “I could just give you the thirty dollars, you know. You’re such a cheapskate Sam!” Liam laughed. “This is what big brothers are for isn't it? If not, then what use are you!” Sam smirked, nudging his arm as they walked into the third furniture store for the morning. Liam gave her a side wards scowl but didn't respond to her remark as his phone buzzed in his jean pocket. He pulled it out eager for the distraction whilst Sam looked some more potential dining suites. He was both surprised and pleased to see the message was from Emily and quickly opened it. It was an invite to have coffee...now, and she was only around the corner. He knew the place, had bypassed it often to get a coffee on his way work. Liam looked up from his phone to see where his sister was at, she didn't seem very interested in what this particular store had to offer. Good, he thought, it meant they wouldn't be here for hours. “Sam, we’re taking a break and going for coffee.” He told her as she made her way back over to where she’d left him standing. “Yes! And then we’re going back to the first store we looked in and I'm getting that white wood suite we saw.” She said, causing Liam to roll his eyes because he’d asked her several times if she was sure she wanted to look elsewhere when he could see she’d had her heart set on it from the beginning. Instead of saying ‘told you so’ he only nodded and quickly replied back to Emily’s message. “I forgot to mention…Emily’s going to be there.” Liam explained as he caught sight of the coffee shop they were headed to. His sister bulked, hesitating before she crossed the road, jogging a little to catch up with her brother. “I am not coming on one of your ‘prissy’ girl dates!” She hissed in his ear once she caught up. Liam laughed and shook his head realising he hadn't mentioned to his family that he liked Emily - and that her name was Emily. “Emily - Dr Harper - invited us - well me, you just happen to be around- to have coffee, and since we both haven't had one this morning because you insisted on me picking you up at the crack of damn dawn, we’re due for one.” Liam informed his sister, his tone almost teasing. “Dr Harper? Oh! Oooh...Dr Harper.” Sam giggled, once she'd clued on to who he was talking about. She didn't say anything else as they walked into the coffee shop, only nudging him, playfully, once again in the arm. Liam spotted Emily and her friend almost immediately after a quick glance around and made his way over, his sister following behind. “Hello, Emily.” He smiled as she remembered to call him by his first name this time. He offered a polite smile over to her friend before turning to his sister. “I hope you don't mind, I have a tag along.” He explained, chuckling softly as Sam nudged him again. “You remember Samantha, my sister?” He wasn't sure if she did, it wasn't her job to get to know the family members of her patients after all. “Sam, this is Emily - Dr Harper.” Liam introduced the two, but unfortunately he didn't know who Emily’s friend was. As Emily introduced her friend, Heather, he and his sister found their seats on the opposite sides of the table, putting him between Heather and Emily and his sister across from him. “It was nice of you to invite us.” Sam said after she sat down, even if she'd only intended to invite Liam.
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Post by emtkxx on May 21, 2016 19:56:23 GMT -8
Emily couldn't help the smile that melted onto her face- the way her name rolled off his tongue sounded so natural, as if were a common thing. She couldn't believe he was actually standing in front of her; she'd definitely have to take Heather out on a nice dinner or something. Feeling something nudge her under the table her eyes glanced to see her pixie haired friend giving her a look. Dammit, spacing out as if she were a high schooler on her first date. Snap out of it Em!
Looking over to his female companion, his sister, she nodded, "It's nice to finally put a name to a face. Nice to meet you, Samantha." The young doctor stuck out her hand and shook Samantha's hand politely and both smiled warmly at each other. Moving herself in a bit so the new woman could make her way around to the empty seat; Emily introduced her friend, "This is my good friend, Heather." Heather smiled brightly and spoke, "Nice to meet you. I never thought I'd be having coffee with a cute firefighter." Emily's cheeks burned and was about to kick her friend under the table but the waitress came over with their coffee. "Two cappuccinos- oh and we have some more guests. Can I get you two anything?" The young waitress questioned, her eyes sparkled with intrigue when they played on Liam.
This man seemed to be a women magnet; then again have you seen him? After Liam and Samantha placed their orders and the waitress left, Emily spoke, "Don't mind Heather- she doesn't get out much." Heather laughed at that and shrugged, "I only speak the truth." The brunette rolled her eyes at that and asked, "So how have you been?" It was directed towards Liam; with his pain and all. Emily had noticed Heather had started chatting up Samantha. Of course she would.
"I saw saw your friend Davis is passing... he said you were back to work," she commented before taking a sip of her warm drink. She honestly had to start cutting back on the stuff, but with her line of work that would be difficult. It was a good kick of energy, and oddly it calmed her nerves. Her stormy eyes swept over his appearance, and then landed on his easy-going grin. There was something about him. Perhaps it was because he was older? He's lived a little more than her, and had definitely seen more. Being a firefighter and all. Emily couldn't help but want to know him better. "Here ya go!" The cheerful waitress announced placing the two mugs on the table.
Emily was pretty sure the waitress was hop for Liam to take notice of her doe eyed look, but the girl looked barely over the age of eighteen. Then again, Emily wasn't the greatest at the age game. Hell, she looked younger than her freshly twenty-six year old self. Also she had no real claim to the man sitting across from her. For all she knew he had only wanted to give her his thanks and that was all.
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Post by Serendipity on May 25, 2016 22:07:51 GMT -8
Liam smiled warmly as Heather was introduced and almost felt himself blushing as she referred to him as ‘cute’, he couldn't recall being called that since his highschool years - and from his mother mostly. “Ah, thanks.” He had to chuckle slightly if not for the look on Emily’s face after her friend had called him ‘cute’. At least her friend knew how to break the ice, and clearly she wasn’t shy. Liam wasn’t a shy person either, he spoke up for what he wanted - which was how he’d gotten Emily’s number in the first place, even if he’d had to spin a little white lie to get it. He and his sister took their seats just as the waitress came over and placed the other two female’s orders on the table. She seemed surprised, and perhaps a little too enthusiastic, about the new arrivals but Liam didn’t think too much of it and gave her a polite smile before ordering his coffee, and Sam ordered next. His attention turned immediately back to Emily as she spoke, mentioning his friend Davis. “Yes I heard he was doing better, I’d planned to go see him tomorrow actually.” Liam nodded, he appreciated that Emily was still watching over his two friends who were still in hospital. “I’ll be off of the desk job next week and back out on the field. I’m looking forward to it.” He explained, he had missed being back in the thick of it, danger and all. “I was hope-” Liam had started to say something else when the waitress came back over with their orders - it's what he had liked about this coffee house, the services was super quick. “Thank you.” He nodded to the waitress with another polite smile, but that was the extent of it before he looked back over to Emily again, missing the girls eagerness to be noticed by him. He knew that women liked him, he apparently had all the features they were looking for, but he didn’t always notice them especially if someone else had hold of his interest at the time. Emily was that interest now. “I was hoping to see you then too.” He said once the waitress took her leave. He was glad that Heather had drawn his sister into conversation, that way he could focus just on Emily, at least for a little while longer. Liam took a small sip of his coffee as he let his statement sink in, she would know he had still been thinking about her. “I’d been meaning to call you, but I caught up with all these work assessments they want me to do before sending me back out.” He decided to add in a way of an apology if she had thought he had forgotten about her.
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