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chicaotaku-fanfics · 9 months ago

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There's Three of You?! Pt. 18

Now, finally, FINALLY, part 3/3 of the arc... which ended up being longer than I ever thought, so, my bad on that front. Stillo, hope you enjoy.

Also, yes, this pic if from the actual YouTube promo pic of the trial scene.

Warnings: foul language, might be some medical inconsistencies .

CHAPTER 18

I was standing outside the courtroom, trying to comprehend what had just happened when a pair of arms wrapped themselves around my waist and a voice whispered in my ear.

“So dear wife, what should we do about this seemingly huge problem of people assuming we’re married?” Jay asked me, I leaned on him.

“No idea. I mean, we do share our mom’s face shape, but your hair color and mine are two tones apart. Not to mention you have green eyes and mine are brown.” I paused for a second, we heard footsteps approaching us, we turned as one and we were face to face with Erin, Dr. Charles, Al, Ruzek and Atwater.

“Do we really look so different that people can confuse us with a married couple instead of seeing we’re siblings?” we asked at the same time.

“When you do that, you’re clearly siblings.” said Erin.

“Hell, even your expression’s the same.” Ruzek added.

“But then you act like that…” started Atwater, pointing to how Jay was hugging me from behind. “and I can see why people think you’re married.” he added.

“I honestly thought you were a couple the first time we met Lilly.” said Al, I blushed and then groaned, at the same time Jay groaned too.

“Anyway, where’s Voight?” asked Jay, going into business mode again.

“He’s speaking with Dana about taking the stand.” said Al, we nodded, just then we heard a phone ding, one of us had a text message, we all checked, it was mine. I raise my phone to indicate it was me who got a text.

From: Big Red ❤️

Why did I have to hear from the hospital’s rumor mill that you’re at court today?

To: Big Red ❤️

To be honest, no one should’ve known

But when you have someone like Doris in the ED… news fly

From: Big Red ❤️

Fair point.

Still… what are you doing there?

Is this because of Jay’s call the other day?

To: Big Red ❤️

It is.

I’ll explain as soon as I can.

From: Big Red ❤️

Very well. Take care, please.

To: Big Red ❤️

I will.

Love you Will

❤️

From: Big Red ❤️

Love you too LilyBloom

❤️

To: Big Red ❤️ ❤️

“Excuse us.” we heard, making us all turn to see who wanted our attention. To our surprise, some of the former patients of this… monster approached us, and I listened to each and everyone of them. I extended my business card, the hospital one, to all of them.

“I know it’s not much, and you all may not even trust doctors at this point. But if it’s worth something, here’s my card. You call me and I’ll make sure you are referred to the best oncologists Chicago Med has to offer.” I said, extending the card to the sixth woman of the group standing before me.

“Not only that, on my part, I can offer free therapy sessions with the best psychiatrists and psychologists Med has to offer.” Dr. Charles said, extending his business card. They all took the cards.

“Thank you. It’s nice to see that not all doctors see us as a way to cash a paycheck.” said one of them, I nodded.

“«If it is given me to save a life, all thanks. But it may also be within my power to take a life; this awesome responsibility must be faced with great humbleness and awareness of my own frailty. Above all, I must not play at God.»” I recited the exact part of the Hippocratic Oath that always resonated with me, since even before entering med school; to always stay humble and understand I’m not God to save everyone.

Everyone looked at me, the Intelligence Unit were all shocked, Jay looked at me with pride in his eyes, Dr. Charles looked satisfied and proud, the women smiled, I smiled at them. One of them walked to me and took my hands in hers.

“Thank you, Dr. Halstead… for giving us back hope that’ll we get better.” said the woman, I squeezed her hands.

“You have nothing to thank me for.” I said, the smile still on my face. Then, the woman pulled me into a hug. I was surprised for a second, but hugged her back.

Not long after we were all called back inside, I guided the woman I was hugging, and the rest followed her lead. We all let them go in first, then we entered and it was then that Voight was called to the stand.

“All three victims were in contact with each other, comparing notes. We know this from their phone records.” Voight started to explain “After their December 10th meeting with Dr. Reybold, they agreed to an experimental treatment which, in actuality, was simply twice the usual dose of chemo.” he continued. “The following week, he upped it to three times the amount. By the time they wound up in the hospital, it was at seven times.” he added.

“Because they confronted him about what he did, and he was afraid of being exposed.” Dana said, I wanted to facepalm myself, but couldn’t.

Don’t say it like that or they’ll say you’re…

“Objection. Counsel is testifying.” said Reybold’s lawyer.

“Sustained.” said the judge.

“In your investigation, did you find it suspicious three patients met with the doctor one day…”

“Objection. No one knows what transpired in this meeting.” that woman interrupted, again.

“That's because everyone in that meeting besides Dr. Reybold is dead or in a coma.” said Dana, looking at the jury.

“You Honor.” said the dirty blonde woman.

“One more time, and you're in contempt.” said the judge, I started to worry.

“Could the amounts the patients received have been lab mistakes?” asked Dana.

“No, Dr. Reybold's signature was on every order.” Voight answered.

“Well, what about a dosing error?” she asked this time.

“His staffer testified that Dr. Reybold personally administered those doses.”

“But the staffer cut a deal.” said Dana.

“That doesn't mean it wasn't the truth.” said Voight, I bit the inside of my cheek not to laugh.

“Objection. Improper opinion.” said Dr. Reybold’s lawyer.

“Sustained.” said the judge.

“What about any other witnesses who…” Dana started but was, again, interrupted.

“Asked and answered.” said the doctor’s attorney.

It’s starting to get really hard not to slap her.

“Yes, Ms. Shelby, move on.” said the judge, I believe two seconds away from slapping Dana.

“Your Honor, someone has to speak for these victims.” she said.

“You don't speak. You ask questions. And if nobody else saw the doctor dosing…” said the judge, before he was interrupted by Voight.

“Someone else did.” he said, making everyone turn to him. “Me. I saw Dr. Reybold dose a patient. My wife. I saw Dr. Reybold dose my wife Camille who died of cancer under Dr. reybold's care six years ago.” said Voight, leaving me speechless.

I turned to see Jay asking if he knew about it with my eyes, his expression told me it was a first for him too.

“Sergeant Voight…” started Dana

“I'm a witness. I saw him dose a patient.” he said.

“The state has no further questions for this witness.” she said, going back to her seat.

“Well, I have a few.” said Dr. Reybold’s attorney.

Oh no… Lord help us all.

“Losing your wife to cancer must have been very painful, sergeant.” she made a pause. “Can you talk about your wife's illness?” she asked.

“Camille was referred to Dr. Reybold when her ovarian cancer returned. He recommended an aggressive course and then a second round when that didn't get it all.” Voight started to speak. I was in absolute shock, and by Jay’s expression, I could tell he was in the same state I was. “She was cold all the time… Couldn't keep food down. Memory went in and out. She… She was depressed. She fought as hard as she could, but…” he continued, but had to pause.

“She sounds brave.” the woman said.

“She was.” he added.

“You're still in mourning over your wife's death.” said the lawyer, taking a step forward. “Isn't that what this is about?” she asked, my jaw almost hit the ground.

The AUDACITY?! Have some respect, lady!

“No.” Voight said firmly.

“How gratifying would it be to help convict Dr. Reybold?” she asked.

“It would be very gratifying.” said Voight.

“No further questions.” she said, sounding smug as if she had won, while going back to her seat.

“For all his victims.” Voight added, making the woman turn to him again.

“I said no further questions. You answered exactly as I expected you to.” she said, as if explaining her reasoning would make a difference.

“Redirect? What other victims are you referring to, Sergeant Voight?” asked Dana, and I could finally see the pieces falling into place.

“Objection.” said the dirty blonde lawyer.

“Ms. Green questioned my witness about one prior patient, Camille voight. Now she opened the door to the other 42 patients he treated.” explained Dana.

Oh… so that’s her name.

“She's right. Overruled.” said the judge

“What other victims?” Dana asked again.

“Helen Graham… Nia Felten… Priya Parvati… Anne Gamerman… And 38 other people this doctor diagnosed with cancer they didn't have and treated with chemo they didn't need.” Voight said, listing four women literally making me want to strangle Reybold.

“And how do you know this to be true?” asked Dana.

“Because he said so himself in court under oath.” Voight answered with zero hesitation.

“Objection!” exclaimed Ms. Green.

Not so confident now, huh?

“Overruled. Continue.” said the judge.

“Dr. Reybold confessed to personally poisoning 42 patients, ruining their lives, terrifying them and their families, and he did it all for a payout, and he admitted to all of this as part of a deal he made with the state of Illinois, copping to fraud." Voight pretty much accused Reybold, looking directly at the jury.

As he did that, Dana walked to her seat and grabbed a stack of papers.

“This deal, Sergeant Voight?” she asked, as she made her way to Voight, only to show him the deal.

”That's the one.” he said.

“The state would like to enter into evidence case number 111 496 and amend its witness list by 42 people.” Dana said, as she went and handed a copy of the deal and updated list to the judge, and then going towards the side where Reybold and his team are seated to practically slam that same document in Ms. Green’s seat.

Oh my God… it looks like we’ll actually win this thing.

We were allowed a break while the jury deliberated the verdict, and I could only hope for the best. Just then, Ruzek walked over to me, standing at my side.

“Hey.” he said, hands in his pockets.

“Hey Ruz.” I said, a coffee cup in my hand.

“What you did was really brave. Helping us by going undercovered, and now testifying against this… monster.” he said, I turned to look at him.

“I’m a firm believer that, if you see someone doing the wrong thing and you don’t speak up, then you’re just as guilty. This man caused three women to land in the hospital, the exact same day, two of them dying because of an overdose… that’s a very long shot away from the « First do no harm » part of the Hippocratic Oath.” I said, he turned to look at me, I turned to look at him.

“Still, I just wanted to say, great job. And thank you.” he said, placing his hand on my shoulder. I nodded and smiled at him.

Al was the one to come get us for the hearing of the verdict.

“On the count of narcotic induced homicide of Danielle Frank…” asked the judge.

“We find the defendant guilty.” said the jury.

I let out a sigh of immense relief, Jay mirroring it, and reached out to hold his hand. He grabs on to me without hesitation, I turn to him, and he turns to me. Our eyes say it all.

We got him.

“On the count of narcotic induced attempted homicide of Carol Shepperd…” the man asked again, this time with another woman’s name.

“We find the defendant guilty.” said the jury again.

“On the count of narcotic induced attempted homicide of Leah Kamen…” asked the judge, again with a different name.

And that was the last one.

“We find the defendant guilty.” said the jury a third time.

I nodded my head once, glad that we got justice for all these women.

“Defendant is remanded into custody until such time as a sentencing hearing is scheduled.” he slammed his gavel down, finally putting an end to this torture, “Bailiff.” he added, calling on to the court officer.

“Hank, your wife did not suffer needlessly. You have to believe me. The cancer did come back. I never harmed Camille. These patients, I was their only hope. They got years because of me. You can't put someone away for saving lives.” Dr. Reybold started saying, desperation clear in his voice and expression, even more so apparent when the officer put the cuffs on him to take him away. “You can't!” he practically growled at Voight. “I wasn't harming them. I was helping them. Helping!” he exclaimed, even as he was led away from the room.

I stood up as soon as Jay did, looking down at my blazer to fix it.

We all walked out the courtroom, Jay behind me, and I said goodbye to all the victims of the man we just got sent away. As we continue to walk out of the courthouse as a group, I suddenly feel Jay’s presence fade, and eventually, only Dr. Charles and I are walking out of the place, only to be surrounded by news reporters.

That little shit… of course, Voight’s number 2 rule: never show your face to the media.

It takes about 20 min to finally manage to escape the reporters, because yes, even if we tried stopping them from asking us questions, they know which buttons to push to get answers, like the last question they asked me.

“Dr Halstead do you think those women are at fault here?” asked one of the reporters.

“Excuse me?” I asked back.

The fuck he just insinuated?

“Yeah, I mean, they trusted Dr. Reybold for their treatment. Shouldn’t that make them responsible for how their life’s turned out for the worse?” asked the man. I took a deep breath.

“First of all, that was rude as hell, and I will not tolerate any disrespect towards the victims of Dr. Reybold’s horrible schemes.” That sentence alone seemed to make all the idiots shut up. “Second of all, have some empathy, imagine if one of them was your wife, or your mother, your aunt, your daughter, would you dare ask such a morbid question?” half of them had the decency to look ashamed of themselves. “And third of all, they were deceived by a psychopathic doctor who has a God complex and absolutely no remorse for his actions, even going as far as still claiming he was helping these women as he was escorted out of the courtroom.” I made a pause, looking to my right when I noticed movement, it was the women. I turned back to the crowd. “As a doctor, I took an oath to do no harm, and what Dr. Reybold did is an insult to that oath. So no, these women are not responsible for what that monster did to them. And if you believe that for so much as a second, then I recommend you reevaluate your life choices so far… because somewhere along the way you chose to become a self-centered asshole who only looks after himself.” I said, turning to leave, then I turned again to see them all. “Sorry for the crude language.” I said with the fakest sweet smile I could muster and then just walked away.

We all made it to Molly’s for a drink, as soon as we entered Herrmann called the attention of everyone there.

“The heroes have arrived! Please give a round of applause to the elite team who got a psycho out of the streets!” he exclaimed, everyone started cheering, I then noticed that not only were the members of 51 present, but also Will, Connor, Sarah, Ethan, April, Ms. Goodwin, Maggie and Natalie were here too. “And please, an even bigger round of applause for Dr. Lillian Mariane Halstead, who humbled a bunch of reporters on national TV!” Herrmann added, unmuting the TV just as the reporters appeared back on the screen, there were two women -Camille Robinson and Dianne Johnson- and a man -Bill Klint-, watching the end of my outburst, waiting to give their opinion.

“That was Dr. Lillian Halstead, giving a statement earlier this afternoon after the trial against Dr. Dean Reybold, and she couldn’t be more right. What happened to the victims of this unfortunate case is nothing short of a horror movie, but thanks to the Intelligence Unit from CPD’s District 21, Dr. Daniel Charles -head of psychiatry at Gaffney Chicago Medical Center-, and Dr. Lillian Marianne Halstead -a junior resident emergency medicine physician at Gaffney Chicago Medical Center-, these women can finally put this nightmare behind them. Our condolences go to them and their families.” said Bill, then Dianne turned to him.

“Absolutely Bill, but not only is Dr. Halstead right, she proved that there are still doctors who see their patients as human beings and not another paycheck, which personally, gives me back hope in the people working in the medical system.” she said.

“And not only that, we also got footage from inside the courthouse, where Dr. Halstead can be seen comforting the victims and reciting, by heart, part of the Hippocratic Oath.” said Camillethis time.

“No way! By heart? Really?” asked Bill.

“Really, let’s check it.” said Camille. The image on the screen changed, I could immediately tell that the person recorded this from the corner of the hall where our courtroom was.

“«If it is given me to save a life, all thanks. But it may also be within my power to take a life; this awesome responsibility must be faced with great humbleness and awareness of my own frailty. Above all, I must not play at God.»” and indeed there was I, reciting my oath for the victims to see that not all doctors are a lost cause. The scene ended with the woman hugging me, and me hugging her back.

“Woooow!” exclaimed Bill, seconded by Dianne.

“Well, that was just beautiful.” said Dianne.

“Not to mention inspiring.” Bill chimed in.

“I know right! Guess we now know that Gaffney’s the place to go in case of emergencies.” Dianne spoke again.

“Definitely, I can honestly say that if I want anyone treating me in case of an emergency is, hands down, Dr. Lillian Halstead.” said Camille.

“I second that!” exclaimed Dianne.

“Me third!” Bill exclaimed. “It’s nice to know that there are still doctors out there that are not all ego.” he added, then he turned to the camera. “Dr. Halstead, if you’re watching this, thank you for being an example of what a good doctor should be like.” he said, starting to clap, Dianne and Camille joined him.

“Indeed.” said Dianne.

“Maybe you won’t be able to hear this, but everyone at the studio is giving you a big round of applause Dr. Halstead. Thank you for helping the people of this city regain their trust in medical professionals back.” said Camille, and with that Herrmann muted the TV again, I was as red as a tomato.

“Come on doc, give a little speech.” he said, I declined, not really feeling like I did a big thing, but everyone started chanting, so I calmed everyone.

“Okay, okay. Uhm… I honestly don’t know what to say. I just… I saw these three women arriving in the ED, two sadly passed, still having their whole lives ahead of them, and a greedy doctor cut those lives short. I wasn’t gonna stand there doing nothing when someone was breaking the most important part of THE oath every doctor takes before practicing… we could say that I just acted. And I’ll continue to do so, for the benefit of my patients, and the city.” I said, everyone cheered again, Jay hugged me from the side, Will stood up and walked over to us to hug me too.

Well one of the reporters was right. Finally, the nightmare is over.

FINALLY! The arc is over, and with Lilly appearing on the news, she'll be benched from UC work for a while, meaning, she'll focus on her doctor work! Yey!

#one chicago #fanfic #oc #halstead sister #jay halstead #will halstead #fanfiction #halstead brothers #chicago fire #chicago med #chicago pd #hank voight #erin lindsay #alvin olinsky #adam ruzek #kevin atwater

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chicaotaku-fanfics · 11 months ago

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There's Three of You?! Pt. 8

New chapter, yay! I thank you all for your patience and giving this story a chance, any feedback is welcomed (as long as it's done respectfully.)

Warnings: foul language, might be some medical inconsistencies.

CHAPTER 8

Beep. Beep. Beep. Beep. Beep-

My freaking alarm started blaring through my apartment, I turned it off and seated up on my bed. I stretched and my back and arms cracked a bit.

“Shouldn’t have accepted the 6:00 AM shift on my second day” I said to myself, then stood up, went to the bathroom and took a shower. I was in and out in, easily, 10 minutes. I was putting on my underwear and pants when I heard the front door open and close, then Jay’s voice came from the kitchen.

“Room Service! I sure hope you’re up Lilly, or I swear to God I’ll leave without you!” he exclaimed. I put on my bra, the comfy sports one I use for the hospital. It got stuck on my back, rolled up like a tight sushi roll, and it wouldn’t come down. I groaned in frustration after the third try didn’t unroll it, then spoke loud enough for Jay to hear me.

“I’m up, but I need a hand, come in.” I said, I heard him knock and then come into my room, my back to the door, I heard Jay snort as he walked up to me.

“When will you learn that this thing has to be put on when you’re COMPLETELY dry?” he said as he helped me.

“Hardy har har Jay, I didn’t know you were an expert in women’s underwear. And for the record, I AM dry.” I said as I went back into the bathroom for my deodorant, I heard Jay move inside the room. Just as I turned to get out and grab my scrub top, Jay was there with it in his hands, I just raised my arms and he helped me. As soon as that was done, he smoothed down the top, a small smile on his face when he read my name and field stitched on the right side.

“You have no idea of how proud of you I am LilyBloom.” he said. I smiled at him, took his hand, which was dusting off imaginary dust off of the collar of my scrub top, and kissed the inside of his wrist, I then point to his badge which was strapped onto his belt.

“Just as I am proud of you.” I said, he kissed my forehead and sent me to the bathroom again so I could finish getting ready. I brushed my hair and grabbed a diadem from my top drawer and put it on. I get out and see my bag ready on my bed, my black coat on top of it, I grab everything and walk out of my room. Jay’s already waiting for me.

“Remind me again why you accepted the 6:00 AM shift? I have to be in the District at 8:00 AM. 8:00 Lilly, be thankful I’m a morning person.” Jay «complained», I just giggled at his reaction, seeing me laugh made him chuckle. We grabbed our stuff and left, Jay letting me go first and then locking the door behind him.

“I’m picking you up today… unless Will ends his shift at the same time as you. If that’s the case, then we’ll see each other at Molly’s.” he said, I nodded.

Jay drove me to the hospital, we talked about some no-work related stuff, and drank our respective coffees. We arrive and before I get out of the truck, I lean into Jay’s space and kiss his cheek.

“See you tonight, if Will doesn’t end his shift at the same time, I’ll text you. Thanks for the ride and breakfast. Love you big bro! Go save the city!” I said, he kissed my cheek with a smile on his face.

“You’re welcome, love you too baby sis. Go save lives!” he said the last part a bit louder, I turned to look at him, smiled and gave him a two finger salute and made my way to the ED, stumbling with Connor on the process.

“Dr. Rhodes, good morning.” I said, smiling at him, he smiled at me.

“Morning Dr. Halstead. So he is the famous Jay?” he asked, pointing to Jay’s truck that was just only merging into traffic, the redlight making him stop just at the right height for him to see us from his passenger side window. He did and waved towards us, we waved back and finally went into the hospital.

“Yep, my older brother. He’s taught me a lot… and I’m not afraid to admit that my sass, sarcasm and sometimes dark sense of humor come from him. Will on the other hand, taught me how to play the guitar, be compassionate, and appreciate life.” I say, a fond smile on my face, we made it to the lockers and I shrugged off my coat, hanged it on my racker, got my stethoscope and my hospital id tag out of my locker -the combo being my brothers birthdays, just the days- out of the corner of my eye I saw Connor go to the backroom to change.

“I’ll go on ahead!” I exclaimed for him to hear me. I heard an «Ok, have fun» coming from the back I let out a laugh while walking to the door, then remembered to put my phone in my locker, I turned and did exactly that. Then, happy that all was done, I went for the door, just as I was about to push it open, a man’s arm did it for me. “You took shorter than expected.” And just like that we both got out and started working.

We treated two patients together, then I treated a patient solo, a productive morning. Two hours later, I heard my brother and Natalie come in.

“Dr. Halstead, got a possible MI coming in.” said Maggie.

“And good morning to you, Maggie.” answered my brother.

“Good morning.” she said.

“Dr. Manning, it was a pleasure being your caddy today.” Will said, I wanted to gag.

“Don't expect a tip.” said Maggie, I chose that moment to make my presence known.

“Good morning.” I said, just in time for my brother’s patient to arrive.

“Morning LilyBloom, mind if I ask you to…” I didn’t let him finish, taking his coat and bag from him.

“Take these to your locker? Consider it done. Go treat your patient.” I say with an honest smile to my brother, he returned it and ruffled my hair a bit. I giggled and took his stuff to the lounge and sat down to update the charts of my three patients.

Sometime later I heard a commotion outside, and got out just in time to see Ethan carry a bleeding girl into the ED. I grabbed a pair of gloves and snapped them on, hurrying to them.

“Come on! She's bleeding from somewhere.” I heard him say. Yeah, no shit Sherlock, we can see that.

“Trauma two. Get your asses over here!” exclaimed Maggie, I was already next to Ethan, Natalie came in a bit later. God, why her? Why? “Who is she? What happened?” asked Maggie to the man who came in with her.

“I don't know. I found her a couple blocks away collapsed on the sidewalk.” he said.

“Let's get her on the monitors.” Natalie ordered.

“April, you got this?” Asked Maggie.

“Got it.” answered April.

“Where's she bleeding from?” asked Connor, I didn’t see him come in to help.

“Working on it.” said Ethan.

“ HR 130. BP's at least 90. I've got a radial pulse.” said Natalie

“All right, get two lines.” Connor instructed.

“On it.” I said.

“Get an i-STAT ABG and send labs. Make sure we type and cross.” said Connor, he was looking at the girl, I started doing one of the lines, April started the other.

“Can you hear me? Can you tell me what happened? The blood-- did you get shot?” asked Natalie, the girl didn’t answer.

“Let's get these wet clothes off her now.” Ethan said.

“Don't worry. We're gonna put you in a gown and see what's going on, okay?” said Natalie.

“Get blood, O negative, make sure it's warm. Put it on level one. Give her two.” Connor ordered, April nodded.

“Hey, stay with me.” ordered Natalie why is this woman, a pregnant woman no less, still working? Shouldn’t she be on maternity leave?

“You find the source?” asked Connor

“No head, neck, or torso trauma. Belly distended but soft.” I answered.

Just as April was starting to cut the girl’s pants, a stream of blood came out, calling our attention to it.

“Oh God” I exclaimed softly.

“That's not an intestine.” April was the one who voiced my thought exactly.

“It's an umbilical cord. This kid just delivered a baby.” Confirmed Natalie, I was shocked.

“What do you mean "just"?” asked Ethan.

“Maybe five minutes ago.” Said Natalie.

“Then where is the baby?” I asked the question we all had.

“She's still bleeding. Clamp.” ordered Connor, April got him the clamp.

“Where did you deliver this baby?” asked Natalie.

“Hey, what happened to your baby?” Connor asked the girl. She refused to even look at us. Connor and I shared a look and we both snapped our gloves off, grabbed a new pair and went to look for the man who brought the girl in.

“Hey, sir? Sir, you're the one who brought the girl, yeah?” Connor asked the man once we catched up to him.

“She gonna be okay?” he asked.

“Yeah, she's fine.” I answered

“Where'd you- where'd you find her?” asked Connor.

“About two blocks that way.” the man answered, pointing in the direction he had come from.

“Okay, can you show us?” asked Connor again.

“Yeah.” said the man.

“Okay.” I said, I then saw April coming out to meet us.

“Hey, grab an OB kit and follow us.” Connor and I ordered her at the same time.

“You got it.” she said, Connor and I had already taken off, following the man to where he had found the girl.

“She was right there.” he said. There, on the floor was a small pool of blood, that made me start looking everywhere.

“Okay, okay, okay, okay, okay.” murmured Connor, I was worried sick, if we don’t find this baby soon…

I was looking down at the ground, just like Connor was doing next to me. Amazing, three grown ass adults and we can’t find a baby.

“What are we looking for?” the man asked, just then I saw a blood trail leading to an alley.

Connor and I looked at each other, I went in first, in there, on the right side, next to a wall, I saw a backpack, I ran to it, Connor hot on my trail.

“Oh no, no, no, no, no. Okay.” I murmured. I then opened the bag and there was the baby, covered in bodily fluids and not breathing.

“Sexton!” yelled Connor, my attention on the baby. A poor, innocent baby boy.

“Did she just abandon the thing?” asked the man, who was standing some distance away from us.

“April!” I yelled this time, it was then that she arrived. “Bulb syringe.” I asked her, she handed it to me, and I started to suck the amniotic fluid from the baby’s nose, hoping it wasn’t too late.

“Come on. Come on, come on, come on, come on. Come on.” said Connor and I, he had readied the blanket, while I was focused on the baby, I heard some more footsteps coming into the alley.

I then, gently, rubbed the baby’s chest with my fingers, and he started crying. I let out a sigh of relief.

“Oh, okay. Blanket, blanket.” I asked Connor, he handed it to me, I also grabbed the towel that came in the OB kit and gently cleaned the baby’s face a little.

“Oxygen.” he asked April and gently placed the little mask on the baby’s face.

“Okay...okay. Come on, come on.” I said, as I wrapped the little thing in the blanket and placed it gently against my chest.

“There you go. All right.” said Connor beside me, helping me stand since I was holding the baby.

“I'll take him to the NICU.” said April.

“I'll take him.” Connor and I said at the same time.

We went back to the hospital and went straight to the elevators and to the NICU floor, the entire ride neither the surgeon nor me took our eyes off the baby, making sure he was still breathing and wouldn’t die on us.

We delivered the baby and left him in the caring hands of the NICU nurses. Once we made sure the little man was gonna be okay, we both made our way back to the elevator, both letting out a huge sigh of relief. The elevator doors opened and Connor let me go in first, I did and he followed. Once inside, the tears started to run down my face, I let out a sob and then covered my mouth with my hand. Connor stopped the elevator and then turned to hug me.

“Hey, it’s okay. It’s okay. We saved him.” he whispered into my ear.

“But what if we hadn’t? What if we were too late? Connor, he’s just a baby, hours old! We don’t know how long he was without oxygen, or-” Connor didn’t let me finish.

“But we did get to him in time. You managed to get the baby to breathe. You SAVED the baby Lilly.” Connor said while rubbing my back, I just nodded and hugged him tight.

Once I had calmed down, he pushed the button for the elevator to continue with its trip down to the ED. We entered the doctors lounge and sat down. I went to one of the computers and logged in with my credentials to start the chart for the baby. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Connor get up and go to the coffee table. Not even five minutes later I had a to-go cup of coffee placed beside me, I turned to look at the surgeon and he nodded his head towards the door. I saved the chart, grabbed my coat and followed him again.

We made it to the roof and we stood there in silence for a while, admiring the view from up here… until Dr. Manning came over to us, to defend the girl.

“She's 14 years old, a kid. She's scared, alone.” said Natalie, I had turned my back to the city and was leaning on the handrail, just like Connor who was standing beside me.

“What about the family?” asked Connor

“Her mother's in prison. Father's long gone. She does have an older sister living in Champaign, though. I left a message.” she said, I was trying to keep calm and not slap her. “Here's the thing-- she was two blocks away. Two blocks--maybe she was trying to make it here.” Natalie spoke again.

“Is that what she said?” I asked this time.

“She clamped the umbilical cord. She did not mean to harm that baby.” Natalie said, I almost roll my eyes at her.

“Right. Put him in a backpack. Leave him in an alley. That'll keep him safe.” said Ethan, joining the conversation.

“It's not that cut and dried. She was delirious.” Natalie defended again, now I did roll my eyes at what she was saying.

“She left her baby to die. It's exactly that cut and dried.” said Ethan with a serious tone.

“She's a child. She wasn't ready for any of this, right?” Natalie exclaimed, turning to look at both Connor and me, still trying to defend the girl.

“People come here for help. I try to leave my feelings out of it.” explained Connor.

“Same for me.” I said, taking a sip from my coffee.

“Well, that's convenient.” she said to us. “Look, you don't understand because you're not a woman.” said Natalie, that last part was directed at Ethan, I stepped into the conversation.

“Natalie, don’t you dare use that on us, on me, because I AM a woman.” I said, starting to get mad at her.

“I agree with Lilly. And don't give me that. People need to be held accountable, regardless of sex.” said Ethan.

“This is a safe haven. She could've dropped the baby off, no questions asked.” said Connor.

“So now you do have feelings?” Natalie asked Connor with an angry tone. “She's got to live with this for the rest of her life. Do we really want to punish her as well?” she asked, looking at the three of us.

“You're talking as if there's a happy ending where that baby survives.” said Ethan.

“That baby is going to survive.” she declared, as if it was that simple.

“And if he doesn't, then what that girl did is murder.” said Ethan, Natalie looked surprised. “How you gonna feel then?” he then asked her

She was left speechless. When she tried to debate it, I spoke again.

“Natalie you gotta understand where we stand; Connor and I found the baby, in a backpack, abandoned, in an alley, and NOT breathing.” I count with my fingers, emphasizing every one of those four things. “We don’t know how long the poor thing was without oxygen, and if, and that’s a very big if, the baby survives, he may have deficits. Deficits that could’ve been avoided if that girl had BROUGHT THE BABY IN!” I said, emphasizing the last four words in my sentence, and not understanding how this woman was even trying to defend the most irresponsible act ever.

Natalie tried to talk again, but I raised my hand to silence her.

“And if the baby doesn’t survive, that girl will face child endangerment, abandonment, neglect, and involuntary homicide charges.” I said, thanking God for giving me a police detective brother to know all this.

Natalie looked at the three of us, disappointment clear on her face since none of us would agree with her. Not because you’re pregnant means you’re right Natalie.

I was the first one to make it back inside, the cold Chicago wind being to much for me. I made it back to the doctors lounge to hang my coat again and check the chart, and see if the NICU nurses had added anything else.

I walked out the breakroom and went to where Maggie was, I saw a girl hit on my brother and that made my humor improve a bit, I then turned to the head nurse.

“Maggie what do you got for me? I need something to lift up my mood.” I said, she looked at me and extended me an iPad.

“You got a high fever in treatment 5, dog bite in 4.” she said, I thanked her and went to treat my next patient.

I was just coming out from treating the patient in 4 when a Code Blue alarm started blearing through the ED, I turned to see what was happening and got another surprise.

“Juvie's hemorrhaging! Trauma 2!” exclaimed Maggie, I was about to go in there when Connor and Ethan took charge of the situation.

“How many pads did she soak?” asked the surgeon.

“Dozen or more.” Ethan answered, I was looking at everything from the outside of the room.

“She must still have retained products. Which attending did this?” asked Connor again, I had the same doubt, the job looked messy and that worried me.

“They were busy. I did it.” said Ethan. I was shocked, and Connor too.

“You? You did it?” Connor asked then let out a sigh “All right, page OB. Let's get her up to the OR now.” he added.

“Got it. Yep, need an OB.” Maggie answered.

As soon the gurney was rolled out I was able to move again. I went to the doctors lounge and sat in one of the computers to update charts and 30 minutes later went up to the NICU to check on Baby Doe.

“Hi. I’m Dr. Halstead. How’s the baby Dr. Rhodes and I brought in this morning?” I asked the nurse that was at the front desk, she smiled at me.

“He’s stable for now. Sleeping. Do you wanna see him?” she asked, I nodded and she led me to the baby’s room. Seeing him there, hooked up to all the monitors made me realize how small the little bean really is. “You and Dr. Rhodes did good. Got to him just in time.” she said, hearing those words made the stress partially leave my body.

“But he’s not out of the woods yet, is he?” I asked her, just the look she gave me was enough for me to know that I was right. “Thanks for letting me see him.” I said to her and left to check on the mom.

I arrive into the ICU and see Connor and Ethan going at each other’s throats.

“I thought I got it all.” said Ethan.

“Forcing the delivery of the placenta is an OB procedure, so what the hell were you thinking?” asked Connor, starting to get mad at the other doctor.

“It was an emergency situation. I made a decision.” defended himself Ethan.

“A bad one. You overstepped your bounds, and you botched it. That girl almost needed a hysterectomy. A 14-year-old!” exclaimed Connor, I started to walk towards them in order to calm them down. “Now, let me ask you something, Dr. Choi. You didn't like this patient. You disapproved of her.” Connor added.

“You think that affected my judgment and my performance?” asked Ethan, rightfully offended.

“You tell me.” said Connor.

Right before I could interrupt them, the hospital’s intercom system went off.

“Dr. Halstead to the E.D. Dr. Halstead to the E.D.” I just looked at them, grabbed a pair of gloves from the front desk and snapped them on while speaking in a high enough volume for them to hear me while I was walking away .

“Gentlemen. Unless this is a civilized conversation regarding a patient, I’ll ask you both to take a walk.” I stated, then Connor turned and walked over to me.

“Dr. Halstead, how’s the baby doing?” and with that, Connor had finished his conversation with Ethan.

“He’s stable, but not out of the woods yet. I’m just coming back from seeing him, he was asleep when I went to the NICU.” I said, while Connor and I walked off in the direction of the elevators.

“Code Blue.” We heard as soon as we had made it back to the ED and I walked over to Maggie, looking at her with a questioning look. I then saw my brother come into the ED too.

“Dr. Halstead, cardiac arrest, treatment 5. Your patient.” said Maggie to my brother.

“Code Blue.” Kept repeating the intercom voice. I got it the first time, I swear.

“I thought you said he was gonna be okay.” said -more like accused- the woman, who I guess is the wife, first to me -since I was closer to her- and then to my brother.

“Ma’am I didn’t treat your husband this morning, so I’d appreciate it if you didn’t use that tone with me.” I said, defending myself.

“Get the pads on him.” ordered Will, I turn to my brother. April was about to talk, but I beat her to it.

“He was in earlier. Is there anything we need to know from his charts?” I asked him.

“No. We did a full workup, and everything checked out.” he said while prepping the guy for an intubation, I started having a bad feeling about the state of the patient.

“I was driving home, and he--I looked over and he was just white as a sheet. And then I turned around and drove back as fast as I could. I don't think he was breathing.” said the wife, clearly distressed.

“Ma'am, I'm sorry. You need to wait outside.” said Doris, lightly pushing the wife out of the treatment room.

“Okay.” she said as she stepped out. Just then Will was finally able to intubate the patient.

This is NOT looking good. AT. ALL.

“Hold compressions. V-fib, charge to 200 joules. Everyone clear” my brother ordered, we all moved back.

“Clear.” we all said. The man was shocked and then the monitor started to beep with a heartbeat.

“I got a pulse. He's in sinus rhythm, brady at 50.” said April.

“BP?” I asked.

“90 over 45.” said the nurse again, but the beeping of the monitor made us all turn to it again. “Wait, wait, wait. 72 over 35.” she said.

“Start dopamine at 10 and titrate to a systolic of 90.” said my brother.

“Yes, sir.” said April.

“Get a 12 lead EKG.” said Will.

“Right away, Dr. Halstead.” said another nurse.

“We gotta get his BP up.” Both Will and I said at the same time.

I then turned to Will.

“When he first came in, what were his symptoms?” I asked, he turned and looked at me.

“His exact words were «It feels like someone sitting on my chest, slowly squeezing the life out of me»” said Will.

“Ok, and what tests did you asked for?” I asked, just hoping that what I’m thinking is wrong.

“I did a full blood panel and two EKGs, but the second set of enzymes came back fine. Both EKGs were normal too, CK and troponin were normal as well. Just like the chest X-rays I ordered.” he said, I slapped him across the back of the head. “Ow. What was that about?” he asked, confused.

“Chest pain like someone is squeezing the life out of your patient, and you didn’t think about asking for an angiogram?” I asked him, I then turned to one of the nurses.

“As soon as we manage to stablelize him, we need an angiogram.” I said, she nodded.

“Don’t you think that’s a bit too much? His EKG was normal and the chest X-ray too.” said Will, I wanted to slap him again.

“It may be a “bit too much”, but if I what I think is true, then something is horribly wrong with this guy’s coronary artery. Something that wouldn’t appear on an X-ray.” I said, everyone turned to look at me like I was crazy.

“He's really bradycardic.” said April, I was getting more worried by the minute.

“Turn up the dopamine. It should help the pressure and heart rate.” said Will.

Bro are you fucking kidding? That thing should’ve kicked in AGES ago, it’s not working!

“Dr. Halstead, it's been 15 minutes--make a decision.” said another physician.

“I'm not giving up yet. RV's not moving.” said Will, I walked over to him from the other side of the patient’s bed. The same woman stood on his other side.

“You have a blown-out RV and severe akinesis. I think you might want to consider giving more fluids instead of escalating the pressers.” said the doctor before leaving.

“But you didn’t ask for an angio the first time around.” I said under my breath, but Will heard anyway.

“Call RT for a tank of nitric oxide.” said Will, Doris went to do just that.

“Nitric oxide?” April and I asked at the same time, confused.

“It'll reduce the afterload so that the heart works less and buy some time till the cath lab is ready.” he explained.

“I know how it works, it’s just… are you sure? It’s been a bit over 15 minutes.” I said, April talked next.

“I've never seen it used for this.” she said.

“It's unorthodox, I know, but I don't have a balloon pump, and we're out of options.” Will justified himself.

“RT says Dr. Manning is signing out the last tank. They'll have another ready in ten minutes.” said Doris as she closed the door after coming into the treatment room

“He'll be dead by then.” said Will, snapping off his gloves and leaving the room.

“If he isn’t already” I said once my brother was out. “Doris, could you do me a favor?” I asked the nurse, she turned to look at me. “Could you take a blood sample, take it to the lab and ask for cardiac labs, as well as a CBC, and a CMP, please?” she looked at me confused.

“Sure Dr. Halstead.” she said, same confused tone as her expression, but did it nonetheless.

The guy was stable for, honest to God, three minutes, in which Doris had managed to get back from the lab and rejoined the team effort to keep this man alive, before April said what I didn’t want to hear.

“He's in v-fib. Lost his pulse again.” she said, Will wasn’t back yet, so I took charge.

“Charge to 200. Everyone clear.” I ordered.

“Clear.” everyone said, the patient was shocked, the monitor was beeping, just then Will came back and saw what was going on.

“One more round of epi. Let's go. Restart compressions.” he ordered, Doris took care of that, I just stepped back and let them handle it, I had some tests results to wait for.

“Nothing.” said April.

“Come on!” exclaimed Will.

“Doug? Doug, please? Please listen to me, okay? We need you, all right? I need you, okay?” the wife started crying and begging his husband to fight.

“Nurse.” Will and I said at the same time, me with less annoyance than my brother. Another one of the nurses took over with the compressions while Doris handled the wife.

“Please? Please--stop.” sobbed the woman while stepping back, never taking her eyes off her husband.

“Hold compressions.” ordered April.

“I got a pulse. Sinus brady again.” said April.

“Start amnio drip. Let's get him to the cath lab.” said Will. That’s when I snapped my gloves off and got out of the room.

It’s already too late.

I went to the lounge for the third time that day, and to my surprise, Connor was still there. I let out a big breath, calling his attention.

“Woah, you look like death.” he said.

“Thanks.” I said, still a bit mad at my brother and his stubbornness.

“Care to share what happened?” he asked, sitting up a little on the couch.

“My brother’s patient from this morning came back a few minutes ago. Non responsive at all. He was just sent to the cath lab, and I just managed to get away from it all.” I said.

“He was the one in code, right?” asked Connor, I nodded. “How long?” he added.

“About…” I look down at my watch and my eyes widen in surprise “20 minutes total.” I said, Connor’s expression matched mine.

“20 minutes?! Lilly-!” I cut Connor off.

“Don’t blame me for this! Will’s the one that was stubborn enough to keep going.” I said, I then closed my eyes, took a deep breath and explained to Connor my course of action.

“When the patient arrived, I asked Will what we needed to know from his previous visit that morning. He said nothing since everything had matched out.” I stand up and go to the coffee table to get myself a mug, even though I probably shouldn’t. Connor motioned me to go on. “I asked him to describe the patient's earlier symptoms, he did. I asked him what tests he ordered. He ordered a full blood panel, EKGs, a chest X-ray and said that when those arrived, everything looked good, CK and troponin were normal, the second set of enzymes too, and the X-ray looked solid.” I retell Connor as I sit back down on the chair I was occupying a second ago and take a long drink of my coffee.

“And even then he didn’t think to ask for an angiogram?” asked Connor, I extend both my arms, pointing at him with my palms.

“That’s what I said!” I exclaim. “And now, I’m sure that the man may not ever wake up, and IF he does, he’ll have deficits… I can already tell the wife will be blaming us- well, Will for it.” I said, Connor looked at me with a confused expression. “She was the biggest stress trigger for the patient. From the way she acted, she seemed to be a VERY controlling woman.” I added.

“Well, we can only hope now.” said Connor, I agreed.

WILL’S P.O.V

I went up to the cardiology floor after sending my patient to the cath lab. I found my patient lying on a bed and still sedated, the cardiologist was with him looking at some charts, he then left them and came out of the room.

“You really stabilized him using nitric?” he asked, I nodded.

“Interesting.” he added.

“What about the patient?” I asked.

“The RCA was completely occluded, and there was a 60% occlusion of the circumflex. I stented both and placed an impella for a couple days to rest the heart.” he explained the results of the angio and the steps he followed after. So Lilly was right. “What was his code time?” he asked me then.

“Maybe 20 minutes total.” I answered, he turned to look at me.

“20 minutes? I would've let him go.” he said, my expression must have shown my shock and disagreement, because he turned to me again. “What's the difference between God and a doctor?” he asked me, I shrugged, hoping he would tell me. “God knows he's not a doctor.” he said, before walking away.

Lilly was right… she was right and now Doug paid the price.

I thought, while walking back to the elevators to head back to the ED.

CONNOR’S P.O.V

I made my way to the waiting room.

“I just got a page.” I tell the receptionist, she just points to someone behind me.

“Dr. Rhodes?” said one his employees.

“Yeah?” I asked him.

“Please, my boss wants to talk to you.” he said, I sigh.

“Okay.” I agree.

We walk out of the hospital and there he was, seated inside of his car, with a satisfied smile. He rolled down his window, I crossed my arms, a serious and annoyed expression on my face.

“You wear the scrubs well.” he said.

“I'm glad you approve.” I answered curtly.

“Long time.” he said. I didn’t answer. “Got a couple of minutes? We can go grab a coffee, maybe catch up.” he added.

“I'm working.” I answered.

“Ah. You know, I took it as a good sign that you'd come home, that maybe you'd worked through your issues?” he said

“My issues?” I asked him, a bit offended.

“Come on. Let it go. Let's move on.” he said with that annoying smile on his face.

“You're still the same, aren't you? Just untouchable.” I asked him, the same serious tone on my voice.

“Let me tell you something. When you left this town, Connor, I was deeply hurt. Yeah. You ask Claire. But right now, I'm willing to put all that behind me, for the two of us to start over.” he said, I had it.

“It's a good pitch, Dad. Really. You hit all the right notes.” I said, my voice broke at some point, but I wasn’t gonna fall for it. “I'm not buying it.” I added and then walked back into the hospital.

LILLY’S P.O.V

I had just gotten out of the lounge, my coat on and was walking to Will, but he approached Natalie and saw her ignore him, he then noticed me and he walked to me instead, but just before we could leave, Ms. Goodwin approached Natalie and what we heard shocked me.

“Dr. Manning, the police are on their way to talk to Erika Dougherty.” said Ms. Goodwin.

“Police?” asked Natalie, clearly confused.

“That's the way it works.” Ms. Goodwin explained.

“What are they gonna do to her?” asked Natalie.

“I don't know. It's not my call.” said Ms. Goodwin. I noticed Ethan had a patient file on his hand and he walked closer to hear what was happening.

“Can't you change this?” Natalie asked, a bit desperately in my opinion.

“No, and neither can you.” Ms. Goodwin said with a serious tone and then walked away. Ethan dropped the file and walked by where Natalie was, but sadly it was also in the direction Will and I were standing.

“Well, this should make you happy.” Natalie said, quite angrily at both Ethan and I.

“After what that baby has suffered? I can’t say it doesn’t satisfy me Dr. Manning. Maybe next time, with all due respect, think like a doctor and not a pregnant woman.” I said, grabbing my brother’s arm and pulling him away.

We went to the cardiology floor to talk to the wife of my brother’s patient. During the ride in the elevator, I shared my thoughts with my brother.

“Get ready to get blamed.” I said, he turned to me with a confused expression on his face.

“Wha- what do you mean?” he asked.

“That woman seems like the type that doesn’t like to accept the responsibility of her actions. I can guarantee that’ll she’ll blame you for whatever happened to her husband.” I explained.

“I saved him.” he said.

“Yeah? At what cost Will?” I asked, hitting the stop button on the elevator. “That man was on a 20 minute code, because you wouldn’t give up on him… that’s 20 minutes where the guy was on and off oxygen and non responsive.” I said. Will turned to look at me.

“He’s my patient, I wasn’t gonna let him die!” he exclaimed, raising his voice at me.

“Don’t you dare raise your voice at me Will.” I said firmly. “I may be the youngest and you the eldest of the three, but I swear to God I’ll beat your ass if you try me.” I added. Will let out a sigh and turned around, his back now facing me.

“You were right earlier.” he said, out of the blue.

“About what?” I asked, confused.

“About the guy’s CA.” he said, then turned around. “The RCA was completely occluded, and there was a 60% occlusion of the circumflex. Dr. Czerny had to stent both and place an impella for a couple days to rest the heart.” said Will, I was shocked. “Yeah… and he also said something else, something that’s a great lesson.” I waited for him to continue talking. “He asked me if I knew the difference between God and a doctor.” he said.

“God knows He’s not a doctor.” we said together, I looked into my brother’s eyes and nodded, he nodded too, I restarted the elevator and we made it to cardiology in a minute.

I stood outside the patient’s room, as moral support for my brother.

It didn’t take long for Dr. Czerny to get out of the room, he looked at me and nodded, I nodded back. Then, the woman was walking towards my brother, as if she was about to pounce on him, I placed myself near the door, making myself visible to the her. She had just hitted Will on the chest, but as soon as she saw me, she ran out of the room and tried to slap me. I blocked it and held her hand.

“This is your fault! You did this to him! You and your stupid, good-for-nothing brother!” she screamed, two nurses tried to come closer, I stopped them.

“Ma’am, with all due respect, if you want to point fingers, I can lend you a mirror.” I said, coldly, the entire cardiology lobby came to a complete stop, it was so quiet you could hear a pin drop.

“What did you just say?” she asked.

“Ma’am, your husband complained about having chest pains many times BEFORE coming in today. You didn’t believe him. You, in a very selfish act, discredited his symptoms, ignoring his deteriorating health. I saw the results of the angiogram. Now, I’m no cardiologist, but I can bet all my money that, had you listened to him the first time he complained, none of this would’ve happened.” I said, my tone ice cold.

“How dare you?” she asked.

“I’m just stating the truth. You said, and I quote, “We need you. I need you.”, unquote, and right now, you just said to my brother, and I quote again “This is not what Doug would've wanted.”, unquote. Are you sure he’s the one who wouldn’t want it? Or is it you who didn’t want it?” I asked her, she tried to hit me again, and again I stopped her.

“You have no right-.” I cut her up.

“The one who has no right to complain is you.” I said, letting go of her hand. “Maybe instead of pointing fingers at the two doctors who saved yours husband’s life, you should just accept the fact that your selfishness is the reason your husband is in that bed.” I said, ending our conversation.

Will came out of the room and we left the cardiology floor, heading to the elevator and standing there for a second before the doors opened. We stepped in and Will hit the ED button.

“You do know Goodwin will have your head for that conversation, right?” he asked.

“Not my fault she can’t accept the truth. If she had listened to Doug the first time he complained, the RCA wouldn’t have been so occluded, we would’ve been able to prescribe something, or refer him to a good cardiologist earlier… all this shit show could’ve been avoided if she had just listened to him.” I said, Will pulled me into a hug, I let my head rest on his chest. Letting my brother’s warmth and love shelter me from this godawful long day.

We made it back down to the ED and we both went into the doctors lounge, I made a beeline for my locker to get my stuff and I texted Jay.

To: Jaybird 💙

Hey big bro. Today has been a HELL of a long day here at the ED.

From: Jaybird 💙

Hey baby sis! I can imagine. Wanna tell me about it? What’s the plan? You leave with Will? Do I go and pick you up? How do you wanna do this?

To: Jaybird 💙

Well… if you could come pick me up, please.

ONLY IF IT’S NOT TOO MUCH TROUBLE JAY.

I mean it.

From: Jaybird 💙

Hey, it’ll never be “too much trouble”.

We’re wrapping up here at the district.

I’ll be there in 20 - 25 min tops.

To: Jaybird 💙

Thanks Jay.

Love you.

❤️

I finished texting my older brother when I heard the door open again. Ethan came in, then he talked to Will and I saw a very sad image: my eldest brother siting with his head glued to the screen of the first chest X-ray he ordered.

“What are you doing?” asked the other physician.

“Trying to figure out where I went wrong. Guy showed up this morning. I ran these, discharged him. Two hours later, he's wheeled in with a massive MI.” said Will, pointing at the image on the screen. “How did I miss it?” he asked outloud.

“Where was the lesion?” asked Ethan, pulling up a chair and sitting on it.

“Right coronary.” answered Will, pointing at the screen.

I walked over to be behind them.

“I know what I'm looking for, and I don't see any abnormalities.” said Ethan, and I had to agree, the damage wasn’t visible on the X-ray.

“I got the guy back, but it's not good.” said Will, then paused for a second, letting out a sigh. “It's not good.” he said again.

“Sorry, man.” said Ethan. “It's late.” he added, then stood up and patted his shoulder.

“Yeah.” said Will. Ethan left the lounge shortly after, I spinned the chair so it was facing the front and sat down, pulling Will’s head into my shoulder blade.

“Don’t do this to yourself.” I said, he made a noncommittal sound, I lightly turned my head to look at him “I’m serious Will. Don’t. I know that I said some hurtful things earlier today, but I was under a lot of stress, and I can bet my adrenaline level was over the roof. Not that that’s any excuse for my behaviour, and I’m sorry for making you feel bad about something that was completely out of our control.” I added, he let out a breath and lifted his left arm to my shoulders and side hugged me. I ran my fingers through his wavy copper hair, not carig about ruining his hairdo for the day.

“I’m sorry too. You were right, I should’ve ordered an angiogram…” Will started, I stopped him.

“Will don’t. I was angry, worried, and with my adrenaline way too high after finding that baby in that alley. I shouldn’t have said what I did to you. It was unjustified, and I’m so, so, sorry big bro.” I said.

“It’s okay Lilly. We were both under a lot of stress today. I’m sorry too, LilyBloom, I shouldn’t have said what I said with the tone in which I did those things to you in the elevator. I love you baby sis. A lot.” he said, tilting his head and kissing my jaw. “I’m so proud to call you my sister Lilly. I love you.” he said, I turned my head and kissed his forehead, near his hair line.

“Jay’s gonna come pick me up in a bit… are you still up for Molly’s tonight?” I asked him.

“Hell yeah I am! I need to hear all about that baby.” He said, I chuckled the patented Halstead Chuckle®.

“Ok, but you might end up wanting to strangle the mother… just like I wanted to this morning.” I said, we stood up, went to our lockers and started changing, removing the stethoscope and putting it in the little safe, along with my hospital badge, then grabbing my bag and heading with Will to the backroom to change, to save time we went in together -he’s my brother and we’ve seen each other naked more times than I’m willing to admit- changed into our street clothes and once out, I got a text from Jay.

From: Jaybird 💙

I’m two blocks away.

Put on your coat, its cold outside.

I don’t want you turning into a popsicle on me.

I laughed hard at that last text and showed it to Will, he too started laughing hysterically.

To: Jaybird 💙

Will and I just lost it with that last text.

Also, fuck you, I’d be a very cute popsicle.

I made a move to grab my coat, but Will beat me to it and helped me put it on. I returned the favor and we both left the doctors lounge, he opened the door for me and once outside, we signed some documents and left instructions for our patients. Maggie and Natalie walked over to us.

“It amazes me how you two can act all lovey dovey after practically roasting each other earlier.” said the pediatritian.

“What can I say? I’m too cute to stay mad at.” I said, doing a cute pose, earning a laugh from Will who messed up with my hair.

“Yeah right, more like you have an amazing older brother who loves you.” he said.

“Thanks, I’ll let Jay know you said that.” I answered, just to mess with him. Maggie, Natalie, Connor and Dr. Charles, the last two were at the back of the ED, were witnesses to Will grabbing me in a choke hold to give me a nudgie.

“So Jay is the amazing older brother, huh? Then what am I? Chopped liver?” he asked, chuckling, I was laughing too.

“Alright, alright, I give, I give! You’re my incredible elder brother.” I said, he let me go and helped me fix my hair while we were still giggling and chuckling.

“Alright. Jay’s probably outside. Follow us?” I asked Will, he nodded, grabbing his car keys out of his pocket.

“Yeah. See you there. See you guys tomorrow.” he said, going on ahead of me so he could go to his car.

My phone started ringing with Jay’s ringtone. I lifted it so they could see it was mine, smiled at everyone and started heading for the exit.

“Bye everyone, see you tomorrow.” I said, practically running out of the ED and into Jay’s car.

Thank you all again so much for reading my story, hope you're enjoying it as much as I am.

#fanfic #one chicago #oc #will halstead #jay halstead #halstead sister #connor rhodes #halstead brothers

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