International Rescue: The Next Phase


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Re: The Call Goes Out [message #463 is a reply to message #395] Mon, 23 July 2012 21:04 Go to previous messageGo to next message
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Gordon had barely managed to get by Ned Cook without being seen. Right now Gordon didn't need the reporter in his face, especially the reporter whose life he'd saved. Sure, it was nice to be thanked when you saved a life, but Ned would want more than to just make pleasant conversation. He would want information and wouldn't stop until he got some. He would also make the connection between IR and the Tracy family, and that had to be avoided at all costs.

Gordon approached the nurses' station and asked after Elise. "I'm Mr. Tracy's son and she was brought in with him," he explained to the nurse after she'd questioned who he was. Pulling up information on her computer, she politely informed him that Elise was stable and resting. Gordon thanked her and proceeded back to where Dianne was waiting for news on Jeff. Quietly opening the VIP lounge door, he walked over to her.

"Mom? Any news?" A teary-eyed Dianne looked up at him and sadly smiled.

"No, not yet." She sighed wearily and then noticed Gordon had remembered to bring back some more coffee.

"Ah hope it tastes bettah than th' first lot Ah choked down!"

Gordon smiled fondly at her as he handed her the cup. "I think it will, it cost more!"

His attempt at a little humor raised a small smile of gratitude from his stepmom. He sat down next to her and told her he'd checked on Elise.

"Well, that's good news at least. She'll probably be here a day or two before they discharge her." Gordon merely nodded, and made him self more comfortable. It was going to be a long wait.

Elise stirred and opened her eyes. It feels so good to be warm again, she thought. She didn't feel any pain at the moment and knew it was because of the medication she'd been given. She lay in bed with the pillows behind her raised. An IV dripped next to her head on her left side and she could hear the monitors bleeping her vital signs.

Her thoughts wandered to Mr. Tracy; she had no idea if he'd made it or not. Her recollection of the crash and the aftermath was a little fuzzy, but she did remember International Rescue being there and that Mr. Tracy's wife had also been there. It just doesn't make sense! She rattled her brain for an answer but none came. It was at this moment her stomach decided to alert said brain to the fact it hadn't received any food in some time. Elise pressed the nurses' button on the little remote on the bed next to her leg. A few minutes later a smiling nurse appeared.

"How are feeling Ms. Collins? You've been sleeping for quite some time."

"I feel a whole better than I did earlier. I am hungry right now though."

"No problem, I'll have some food sent up for you." The nurse fussed about and checked the IV and monitors and adjusted the bedding. "How's Mr. Tracy doing?" The nurse looked at Elise with what Elise read as almost pity.

"Not good, I'm afraid. He's in surgery right now. We'll know more when the doctors come out of the OR."

"Thank you." Elise closed her eyes and wished the nurse had told her something different.

"Is his family here yet?"

"Yes, his wife and one of his sons are in the VIP lounge. I think the rest of the family are on their way."

The nurse smiled and started to leave. "The food will be here shortly." All Elise could do was manage a half-hearted, "Thanks."

Laying her head back down, she once again tried to make sense out of so much confusion.

Ned Cook, on the other hand, was not confused. He was miffed about being given the brush off by Dr. Dianne Tracy, but that wasn't going to damper his determination.

"Joe, I've another idea, come with me." His long time partner and cameraman followed silently along the corridor towards the nurses' station. Ned started whispering.

"Joe, I'm going to hang out around the nurses' station until I hear something newsworthy. Why don't you go get something to eat?"

"Okay. You want me to get you sumthin'?"

"Yeah, thanks, a sandwich or just whatever."

Joe was about to ask another question, but Ned's attention was already elsewhere and so he left to go to the cafeteria. Ned nonchalantly strolled around the vicinity of the nurses' station, aching to pick up just the slightest piece of information. He didn't have to wait long.

"Will you please have a meal sent to Elise Collins' room?" The pretty young nurse who had just left Elise's room walked up and sat down behind a desk.

"Sure, no problem," her colleague replied, already making the call. "How is she doing?" another nurse asked.

"She's awake, and asking about Mr. Tracy. She seemed quite upset when I told her the news."

"She was brought in with him, wasn't she?" continued the other nurse.

"Yes, apparently she was the pilot of the helijet that Jeff Tracy was on." Picking up a file, the nurse returned to her duty.

Ned Cook had all he needed, and careful not to arouse anyone's curiosity, he walked down the corridor towards Elise's room. It wasn't difficult to find, the medical chart was still in the mail holder on the door. He looked through the glass and saw she was awake. Perfect! He knocked and entered before she could reply. At first, Elise thought it was the food arriving until she saw empty hands. "Ms Collins?"

"Y-yes?" she replied cautiously.

"I'm Ned Cook, reporter for NTBS and host of the Ned Cook Show." He displayed his best smile hoping to win her over with it. It didn't.

"What do you want, Mr. Cook?" she asked bluntly.

"I was hoping maybe you would be able to give me some details of the events leading up to the crash of the chopper that Mr. Jeff Tracy was in. You are his pilot, aren't you?"

He sure doesn't beat about the bush "Mr. Cook, now's not a really good time. I'm still fuzzy on a lot of the details and I wo..."

"Oh, I understand! But my viewers are concerned and have a right to know if one of the worlds' richest men is going to live or die and..."

Before he could finish, a very stern voice behind him said, "ENOUGH!" Ned turned to see a very angry looking RN holding a plate of food.

"You do NOT have any business disturbing this patient and I suggest you leave NOW if you know what's good for you!"

Ned decided not to argue. It would lessen his chances of returning later.

"Of course. My apologies for disturbing you, Ms Collins." With that, Ned left the room.

"Thank you." Elise breathed again, relieved that annoying man had gone.

Ned made his way down to the cafeteria and found Joe munching on a sandwich.

"Damn it, Joe! I'm going to get some info on this crash and I'm not leaving this hospital until I do!"

Ned plopped down in the seat across from Joe, who merely held out his hand and offered, "Sandwich?"

Post by FrankieCTB2 on 02/07/2004


Jeff heartbeat Dianne plain My IR:TNP OTP!
Re: The Call Goes Out [message #482 is a reply to message #463] Mon, 23 July 2012 21:14 Go to previous messageGo to next message
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Dominic and Brandon unbuckled themselves from Thunderbird Two's jump seats as Virgil gave the all clear. He kept a calm exterior, but both new recruits could tell he was more than a little worried. He has good reason, Dominic thought as they followed Virgil back to the lounge, I wish t' God that it was me in there assisting the surgeon. This is the sort of thing I've been dealing with for years.

There was a flurry of movement as the three men entered the lounge. John sped over to Virgil and grabbed his arm, quizzing him for any new information, even though he seemed to know he would get none. Dominic stretched, wincing as a series of pops issued from his spine. Brandon clapped him on the shoulder, and Dom gave him a smile.

"Well done," Brandon said, "we did good."

"We make a good team." Dominic said. "If only the situation hadn't been quite so close to home, as they say."

Brandon nodded, and the two headed over to where the new recruits were clustered, their faces pinched with worry, but with curiosity, too. Brandon and Dominic were the first of them to go on a rescue. Nikki went straight to Dominic and started quizzing him on Jeff's condition, how he had been, what had been done for him. The two spoke in a strange medical shorthand that the others didn't quite get. Christopher, Kat and Callie questioned Brandon, both about Jeff and about the equipment they had been using.

"Daddy!"

Dominic whirled around as the high-pitched squeal went out. Cherry had been watching Joshua, who broke free and ran as quick as his small legs would carry him to his father. Dominic scooped him up and gave him the hug he obviously wanted. Cherry followed and heaved a sigh, shaking her head.

"He wasn't very happy that you were gone," she said. "But, it was a nice distraction, in a way."

Dominic patted the girl's shoulder and nodded his head.

"Yes, he's going through that 'terrible-twos' stage, not that I like to call it that. Josh seems to know that he can't misbehave, but he does. It's natural. And Cherry, sweetie, your Dad will be okay."

"I hope you're right."

Post by ArtisticRainey on 02/07/2004


Jeff heartbeat Dianne plain My IR:TNP OTP!
Re: The Call Goes Out [message #497 is a reply to message #482] Mon, 23 July 2012 21:18 Go to previous messageGo to next message
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Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, February 27th, 12:15 am.

"Is there anything I can get for either of you?"

The offer came from the nurse who earlier had seen to Elise. The two people sitting in the room looked her way and spoke together.

"No, thanks."

"Just let me know if you do, okay?"

"We will. You've been very kind," answered Gordon.

The nurse paused slightly before continuing. "I think you should know that a reporter has been sniffing around asking questions and trying to get information about Mr. Tracy. One of the other nurses found him asking Elise Collins about the crash."

Bidding farewell, the nurse left the room. Gordon was fuming!

"Damn him! Damn Ned Cook! He's knows better than this!"

He was now out of his seat and had started to pace, hands on his hips. "Just who the hell does he think he is?"

"Gordon, please calm down. You're not helping matters by yellin'. First thing that you need to do is call Scott and let him know. Lord knows the last thing your father needs is a media frenzy here in the hospital."

Hearing Dianne's rational words helped calm him down, but Gordon was not going to let this slide. If Ned Cook could gain access to Elise, so could others.

"You're right Mom, I'll call Scott now."

Gordon was about to leave when the surgeon entered the room.

"Dr. Tracy?" The look on his face was grave.

Rising slowly, the fear welling up inside her, Dianne stammered, "Oh God, NO!"

Gordon was by her side in an instant, offering support with his arm.

"Dr. Tracy, your husband is alive. However, he is in critical condition."

Dianne let out a breath she didn't realize she'd been holding. "Please, sit down, and we'll discuss the surgery so far."

All three of them sat down. Gordon and Dianne listened intently as the surgeon began to explain what had been, and still was, going on in the OR.

"We are almost halfway through this surgery. We have removed most of his spleen; unfortunately, it was too damaged to be saved. We also stopped the internal bleeding by making repairs to several severed smaller arteries. We also had to repair a tear in his liver. This was tricky, but it has decreased the amount of blood loss."

All Dianne could do was fight to hold back the tears that were threatening to fall. All she could think about was: could I, should I have done more at the crash site? Gordon was just trying to understand and absorb exactly what was going on with his father.

"We are, at the moment, fusing the broken ribs so that they align and heal correctly. Once we have these immediate injuries taken care of, we can monitor the brain swelling more closely."

"Brain swelling?" Gordon all but choked the words out.

"Yes, Mr. Tracy suffered trauma to his brain and although the swelling is stable at present, we need to closely monitor its condition. Unfortunately, we can't try to fix everything in one surgery. His body wouldn't be able to stand any more traumas at this point. If we did proceed, I'm afraid it could end his life."

The Doctor was trying to be as sympathetic, yet realistic as he dared. The outlook so far, for his patient, was not good. "Do either of you have any questions for me at this point?"

Dianne spoke softly "Yes, umm... did the IR personnel give you all the correct information about my husband's injuries when they brought him in?"

The Surgeon was a little surprised at the question but answered her "Yes, they did an outstanding job. If they hadn't, we might not have been able to repair the vital injuries first. We knew exactly what needed to be done. Had we not, the outcome may have been a lot worse."

He offered a small smile and advised them he needed to get back to the OR. "Thank you, sir." Gordon held out his hand and the surgeon shook it, nodded to them both and returned to the OR.

A soft sob and sniffle from behind him made Gordon turn back to Dianne. "Oh Gordon, what if he doesn't make it? What if he... "

She couldn't finish her words because the threatening tears fell and she sobbed her heart out.

"Mom, he'll make it, he has to. He wouldn't dare leave you, not now."

He took her in his arms and that was how Scott and Grandma found them upon their arrival.

Post by FrankieCTB2 on 02/07/2004


Jeff heartbeat Dianne plain My IR:TNP OTP!
Re: The Call Goes Out [message #507 is a reply to message #497] Mon, 23 July 2012 21:22 Go to previous messageGo to next message
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Brandon's body sagged from total exhaustion. The rescue had been long and taxing and all he wanted to do was retire to his apartment. But that was impossible at the moment as his team-mates were bombarding him with questions. He answered each of them, directly and without hesitation. Then Kat brought up the incident with the rescue capsule.

"Brandon, I understand Virgil had some problem with the cable when you were trying to bring Miss Collins up. Can you elaborate? Dom wasn't too forthcoming," Kat asked.

Christopher wandered over, stroking a sleeping Asterix.

"Yes, please enlighten us all." He smiled. "Tell us how you were being so manly and heroic."

Kat frowned. "That doesn't sound very friendly, Christopher. Brandon was on the rescue and not you."

"Sorry. Brandon," Christopher said, looking suitably cowed. "How did you get it sorted out?"

Brandon glared at Christopher, not liking the sarcasm.

"It was simple enough. Dominic gave me a boost out the hatch and I climbed the cable to Thunderbird Two. Then I unfouled the line and raised them both up." Brandon described it like it was something he did every day.

"I think you were very brave, Brandon. After all, it was your very first rescue," Kat said to the aquanaut. She turned to the pilot with a cross look. "Let's see how you are on your first rescue, Christopher. You may act a bit different once you have encountered danger. Don't be so hard on him!"

"Well, I'm sure that it was a very tiring rescue and Brandon needs his sleep," Christopher commented, yawning.

"Yes," Kat added, "you need your rest. You acted very bravely today, taking part in your first rescue. I am sure Christopher thinks the same, don't you?" she said, turning to the young man holding his cat.

"Yes, Kat." Christopher nodded sagely, a smile playing on his lips.

"I hope you mean it. You should, you know," Kat replied, noting the smile was not that pleasant.

"Oh, I do," Christopher said. "Very much." Christopher held Asterix up to Brandon. "Say goodnight to Brandon, Asterix."

"Hey! Back off with the cat!" Brandon shouted as the cat took a swipe at him with a set of sharp claws.

"Touchy bleeder, isn't he?" Christopher commented.

Kat shouted, "Don't be so nasty, he may not like cats!" She smiled at Brandon. "Are you okay?"

"Yeah, Kat, I'm okay." Brandon glared at Christopher. "You better keep that hairy furball away from me!" Brandon's face was full of anger.

"I can't guarantee that he won't pay you a visit," Christopher said. Realizing he'd gone too far, he held out his hand. "Sorry. Start again?"

Brandon looked at Christopher's outstretched hand. Giving a sniff of disdain, he turned his back to Christopher.

"Honestly, you two!" Kat remarked. "You haven't known each other very long. I think you should both shake hands. You both are a part of IR with very different roles and I really don't want to see two of my newest friends acting this way; it seems so childish. You are both grown men, I think, so please, shake hands."

Christopher stood there, hand outstretched, Asterix squirming in his other hand. "Brandon?" he asked. Brandon reluctantly took Christopher's hand, giving it a weak shake.

"It's a start." Christopher smiled. "Let's hope it gets stronger over time."

"Yes, I hope so too," said Kat. "I know we are all different, but we must make an effort, especially when we are working on a rescue."

"I agree," Christopher said, "but I think that friend Brandon needs a kip; he looks absolutely knackered."

"Yes, you look all in," Kat added. "Go and have shower and freshen up then have a long sleep. You deserve it."

As Brandon turned to leave, Christopher picked up Asterix and waved a paw at him. "Bye-bye, Brandon."

Post by MagicMaster8, TheWrongTrousers and Tawnyangel22 on 02/07/2004


Jeff heartbeat Dianne plain My IR:TNP OTP!
Re: The Call Goes Out [message #541 is a reply to message #507] Mon, 23 July 2012 21:32 Go to previous messageGo to next message
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Sunday, January 26, 12:45 a.m., Mt. Sinai Hospital, New York City

Emily Tracy strode over and sat down next to Dianne, handing her a tissue.

"Now, you tell me all that's gone on since you got here, Dianne. Scott told me about the rescue, but I want to know what kind of condition my son is in and what his prognosis is."

Dianne accepted the tissue and sat up, extricating herself from Gordon's embrace with a small smile of gratitude. She wiped her eyes and took a deep breath, and proceeded to tell Emily what the surgeon had just told her. Gordon got up from the sofa and motioned to Scott that they should speak outside.

"There's more," Gordon wasted no time in getting to the point.

"Now what?" Scott asked impatiently.

"Ned Cook's been sniffing around for a scoop on Dad and the crash. He managed to get into Elise's room but a nurse threw him out. He's also tried to get to Mom."

"Damn!" Scott muttered under his breath.

"Scott, you're going to have to tell Elise what's going on. Ned won't give up on a story. We both know that."

Scott contemplated finding Ned Cook and telling him what he really thought about him, but then decided talking to Elise was more of a priority. He looked at Gordon's serious expression.

"You're right, she deserves to know the truth. I can only imagine what she's been thinking up 'til now."

"Why don't you go now? If the surgeon comes in, I'll come and get you."

Scott nodded and walked to Elise's room.

She was actually awake, due to sleeping on and off most of the day, she no longer felt as weary. The meal had helped. A soft knock on her door brought her attention back from daydreaming.

Oh no, not that Cook guy again! She was about to alert the nurses' station when a familiar head poked its way through the door.

"Scott?" Elise was quite taken back. She hadn't expected a visitor in the middle of the night, especially this one.

"May I come in?"

"Sure, please do."

Scott entered the room, and for the first time noticed the black eye and large bruised cheek as he approached the bed.

"How are you feeling Elise?"

"I'm okay. Hurts now and again, but I'll survive."

Scott sat down on the bed next to her. Oh boy! Where do I start?

"Elise, there's something I need t...."

Elise cut him off. "Scott, just tell me what the hell's going on?" She was becoming angry and upset.

He took hold of her hand and spoke softly, hoping it would calm her some. "Elise, what I'm about to tell you is of utmost secrecy and vital it stays that way."

Elise didn't like the sound of that.

"Just spit it out, Scott! I want to know what's going on, I heard your voice on your dad's watch device. You said International Rescue, didn't you?"

Scott looked sheepishly at her. "Yes," he replied.

Elise sighed and lay back against the pillows. "Oh great!" came her sarcastic reply.

Scott looked at her for a moment, annoyed that she was angry about something he really had no control over.

"Yeah, I said International Rescue. They came to rescue you, didn't they?"

"Yes, they did, and so did Mr. Tracy's wife! I don't remember the whole thing too much, but I do remember her being there. So, explain to me how she and International Rescue just happened to be in the same place at the same time?" Her tone had become less angry, it was now as if she were begging for an answer to her confusion.

"Scott, please tell me," she pleaded.

He looked down for a few seconds and then back at her, "Elise, my father, Jeff Tracy, is the head of International Rescue. My brothers and I are part of that team. My stepmom is too. That's why you heard me calling as IR on my Dad's watch." He waited for her response.

Elise just looked at him for a minute or two, and then responded, "You mean I was flying the head of International Rescue, all over New Hampshire, and I may have been responsible for his death? For crying out loud, Scott! He could've... we could've been killed and...."

Before she could finish, Scott interjected, "Calm down Elise, the crash wasn't your fault, and you know it. It was an accident."

Elise lowered her eyes away from Scott's. "I know, but I can't help feeling responsible somehow."

Scott's voice also became calmer. "Elise, you probably saved my father's life."

"I don't think so, Scott, I just did what any downed pilot with our training would do--survive."

He squeezed her hand as a gesture of understanding. He told her how Jeff was doing, and then asked her what she recalled about the flight and crash. She told him what she could and then he asked, "Elise, what were you and my father doing in New Hampshire?"

"It's supposed to be a surprise for Mrs. Tracy."

Scott blinked a couple of times before asking, "What kind of surprise?"

"Your dad wanted to buy a honeymoon cottage as a late Valentine's gift, so he asked me to fly him up there. We were supposed to be back in time so he could call her." Her voice trailed off as she finished the sentence.

She asked some more about the rescue and Scott told that yes, he had been there, and also told her that he knew of Ned Cook's little visit to her.

"Ned Cook is just the first, I'm afraid," he said, making a face. "As soon as it's known that you were the pilot of the helijet, the press will be all over you. Tracy Industries will do what it can to protect you from the newshounds, and I'm sure the hospital will too, for as long as you're here. But when you're discharged... that's a different story." He gazed at her. "Elise, we'd like to get you out of the spotlight as soon as you can leave here." A twinkle sparkled in his eye, the first bit of humor he had felt in hours. "What do you say to a visit to a South Pacific island?"

"Excuse Me?" was her stunned reply. Scott allowed himself a small chuckle at her reaction.

"I want you to think about coming to stay with us, at our home, which doubles as the HQ for International Rescue. You'll get the best care and there's plenty of sun! It'll give you time to recoup, and Ned Cook and the likes of him won't ever find you. Will you come?" He then held up his hands and added, "No hidden agenda--I promise."

Elise had to smile at how ridiculous he looked sitting there with his hands in the air. "This is a lot to absorb, but I promise I will think about it, and let you know before I leave the hospital, okay?"

He smiled. "Okay. I'm holding you to that promise. I need to get back to the others and see how my Dad's doing."

"I understand, and let me know, too, when you can."

"Sure, no problem."

Scott left the room and Elise lay there thinking about their conversation. Her entire world as she knew it had just changed, and she hadn't even gotten out of bed.

Post by FrankieCTB2 and Tikatu on 03/07/2004


Jeff heartbeat Dianne plain My IR:TNP OTP!
Re: The Call Goes Out [message #554 is a reply to message #541] Mon, 23 July 2012 21:38 Go to previous messageGo to next message
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Scott stepped out of the room, and spoke to the nurse on duty at the desk.

"Can we get some security for Ms. Collins during her stay here? I'm afraid that the news media will be all over her very soon."

"You can call the security head in the morning. We nurses will take care to see she's not disturbed tonight."

"Okay. Thank you," Scott said gratefully. Then he hurried down the hall to the VIP lounge. Gordon got up and moved to speak with him.

"Everything okay with Elise?" he asked. Scott nodded.

A cry from Dianne drew their attention. Her face had drained of color.

"What's wrong, dearie?" Emily asked, concerned. Dianne shook her head.

"When the surgeon went through what they were doin' in the OR, did he mention the puncture?" she asked Gordon.

"Puncture?" he responded, shaking his head. "No, he didn't."

"They've missed it! I know they've missed it! You father has a small puncture of the lung. It's on the backside of his left lung. It's not big but I know, I know, that I found it and put it on the treatment list!" Dianne lifted her bleak face to her stepsons. "They've missed it!"

Gordon made to leave. "Well, we can just tell them about it and they'll fix it."

"No, we can't, Gords," Scott said, his own face paling. "They'll want to know how we know about it. And we can't exactly tell them, now can we?"

"No," Gordon whispered.

Emily took a deep breath, and pulled Dianne closer. "Well, we can pray. And we'll just have to pray that they find it before the surgery is over, won't we?"

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

Gordon couldn't stand it any longer. He hated feeling helpless, so announced he was going to call John and Alan and give them an update.

"Tell them to pray for their father, Gordon."

"I will, Grandma," he said, and giving Emily a hug, he left the room.

"Never could sit still, that one, always gotta be doin' sumthin'!" Emily said to no one in particular.

"How much longer do you think they'll be, Mom?" Scott wanted to know.

"Ah don't know, Scott. Ah just wish Ah could be in there."

Gordon had found an empty, quiet room and called his brothers on his comm-watch.

"Well, how bad is it Gordon?" demanded John.

"It's bad. Dad's still going to critical even after this surgery," replied Gordon. He continued to explain to both of them about the brain swelling and possibly more surgeries.

"I'm coming down there! John, how soon can you get up here and get me outta this tin can!" Alan Tracy was ranting and raving at this point. He didn't want to be in TB5; he wanted to be with his father.

"Hold on, Al! Relax, will ya? John can't come to get you, he's in charge of base."

The disgruntled noises and various cuss words indicated that Alan was not pleased.

"Alan, look, we'll organize something and get you and John here ASAP, but until then. bro, you got to sit tight."

Yeah, preferably sooner than later, if you don't mind," John chimed in, just as unhappy, but fully understanding the situation.

"John, please let everyone know what's going on will ya? I'll call back soon."

"Sure thing Gordon, give my love to everyone and FAB." John signed off.

"Yeah, whatever, and I love them all, too," came Alan's reply and he too signed off. Rolling his eyes at his younger brother's attitude, Gordon made his way back to the waiting room, just in time to see a very tired looking surgeon enter before him.

"Mr. Tracy has been taken to recovery, then he'll be moved to ICU as soon as the anesthesia wears off. He has several broken bones, including a fractured vertebra and scapula. We'll be setting the long bones and fusing the vertebra and the scapula. The foot has multiple fractures and will require a separate surgery." The surgeon shook his head. "He is still in delicate and critical condition. But at the moment, our biggest worry is the swelling of the brain."

"When can we see him, Doctor?" Emily asked.

"You may visit briefly when he is moved to ICU," the doctor said wearily.

Dianne looked up at him. "Ah'm stayin' with him."

"Dr. Tracy..." the surgeon began.

"Don' argue with me. Ah have practicin' privileges through Doctors Without Borders and Ah'm staying."

"I'm too tired right now to argue with anyone," the surgeon replied. "We'll let the administration decide whether or not you stay, Doctor."

"Was there anything else you found durin' the surgery that we should know about?" she asked tensely."

"No, there wasn't."

The sound of pin dropping on shag pile carpet could have been heard. Scott, Gordon and Emily exchanged glances. Dianne held back the voice that was screaming inside of her.

"Ah see. Now who do Ah see about stayin' with mah husband?" She glared at the surgeon, daring him to confront her again.

"Follow me, Dr. Tracy." He led the way and Dianne followed him out of the room.

The second the door closed, Gordon all but came unhinged. Scott reassured him over and over that Dianne would be able to watch for the first sign of trouble with Dad and alert the staff. It took a lot of reassurance from Emily, also. When her red-haired grandchild came unglued, he took a lot of persuading to come around to everyone else's way of reasoning.

Dianne spoke with the necessary personnel and after dropping the Tracy name and the words "donation of a substantial size" in the right ears, she was allowed to stay on a cot in Jeff's private ICU room. She all but flew down the corridor to where he had been lodged. He was currently breathing on his own... A good sign... but his face was looking more swollen due to the cranial bleeding. She looked over the monitors, silently checking off everything In her head. Gently she lifted her hand to his forehead and brushed her fingers across it.

"Ah'm here darlin'. And Ah'm not leaving you. Ah love you, Jeff Tracy." She wiped away the tears that had started to fall. She didn't plan on using the cot that had been set up for her; she was going to watch Jeff for the first inkling of a problem. She'd be damned if she was going to lose him now.

Scott came in on quiet feet, gasping as he saw his father's injuries. "Oh, damn. I had no idea it was this bad; that he'd look this bad." He shook his head. "Any sign of that puncture?" he asked quietly.

Dianne shook her head. "Ah'm sure Ah saw it, but Ah'd rather that th' monitors and Ah were wrong than he's got one that the surgeons didn't catch."

"I understand." Scott paused. "Gordon's really worked up about it."

Dianne sighed. "Ah'm sorry. I jes' hope...." She suddenly stood as her ears caught the change in Jeff's breathing, a hitch had developed and his blood oxygen levels were dropping as he struggled to breathe. Dianne pushed the panic button, and an alarm rang out. Nurses, and the doctor on duty came running in, pushing Dianne and Scott aside.

"What...?" Scott asked his stepmother. Her gaze was fixed on Jeff as the surgeon came in, holding the doctor's note pad from Thunderbird Seven. He was scrolling through the problems listed and then the color drained from his face.

"Damn! We missed something! Get him back to the OR, stat!" The surgeon's gaze met Dianne's look of fear and knowing, then he hurried out, following the bed that held Jeff as it rolled out into the hall. Scott grabbed Dianne as she nearly collapsed, her knees suddenly giving way.

"You were right, Mom," he murmured in her ear as he guided her to the chair. "You were right when you examined him and you were right to insist on being here."

"Yes, Ah know, Scott. The question is: can they repair it without killin' him!"

Raising his left arm, Scott called Gordon on the comm-watch. "Gordon! It's Dad, they've rushed him back into the OR. Mom was right; they'd missed the lung puncture! I'm with Mom, she's not doing good, tell Grandma for me will you?"

"FAB" was the only reply Scott received and he knew it was because Gordon was too shocked to say anything else.

Scott then made a command decision. "Mom, I'm not going to call base just yet. There's no point in them worrying twice as much as we already are. I want to wait until we hear something positive."

Dianne nodded in agreement. She was too numb to say anything else. She couldn't believe this was happening. Finally finding the words, all she could say was "Scott, what if this kills him?"

Scott didn't have an answer so he just embraced Dianne as she collapsed against him.

Post by FrankieCTB2 and Tikatu on 03/07/2004


Jeff heartbeat Dianne plain My IR:TNP OTP!
Re: The Call Goes Out [message #555 is a reply to message #554] Mon, 23 July 2012 21:39 Go to previous messageGo to next message
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Nikki retreated to her apartment and sat down on her bed. Her thoughts shifted from the rescue to her family. She had no idea what she would do if it were her own family member out there.

Nikki thought back to how John spoke to Elise over the radio. Even though it was his father out there, he kept a cool head. Something that she probably wouldn't be able to do if she was in his situation.

She silently prayed for the two victims. God, please protect Jeff and Elise as they begin their road to recovery. I also ask for you to watch over their families and help them to get through this tough time.

She laid down on her bed and continued to think about earlier events.

Post by Nikki-browneyes1 on 03/07/2004


Jeff heartbeat Dianne plain My IR:TNP OTP!
Re: The Call Goes Out [message #562 is a reply to message #555] Mon, 23 July 2012 21:43 Go to previous messageGo to next message
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Sunday, February 26, 2:10 a.m., Mt. Sinai Hospital, New York City

"Gordon, I swear if you don't stop pacin' child, you'll wear a hole in the carpet!" Emily had watched him pace for the last 20 minutes and was losing patience with her fourth grandson.

"I can't Grandma, sorry, but I just can't sit still. Not while Dad's in there again," he said, meaning the OR.

Grandma gave in this time, seeing her own worries mirrored on Gordon's face.

Lord, please let my son live. I know I've asked a lot for my son and grandsons over the years, and I may have used up my allowances with you, but, Lord, one more time, for my grandsons and my son's new family. I'm not asking for myself, but for them. Please don't take him away like this.

Emily sent up her silent prayer while Gordon continued to fret and pace.

Dianne sipped the bitter coffee that the nurses provided. I swear, part of our donation will be for a decent coffee service for these people! she thought, trying to divert her thoughts from where her heart was. Scott was hanging around the nurses' station, hoping to find out any news. The nurses there were taken with the handsome Tracy son, his good looks and his famous name made more than one of them wish they could catch his eye. But the ICU supervisor put the kibosh on any budding attempts by reminding her colleagues that this was a patient's son and he would be in no mood for flirting.

So it was that Scott was the first one to see the surgeon come out from the operating theaters and lead a parade of nurses and interns surrounding a bed, a bed piled high with equipment and surrounded by a forest of IV poles but holding a person, a living person, his breathing aided by a ventilator but his heart beating. Scott hurried to Dianne's side.

"Mom, they're coming! They're bringing him back!" He beat the rolling bed by a few moments. Dianne stood aside as the nurses hooked Jeff up to monitors and more monitors. But as soon as the number of nurses thinned out, she rushed to his side.

"Dr. Tracy. I am so sorry. There was a small puncture in his lung, on the underside. The IR people catalogued it. But we... I... missed it," the surgeon said softly. "It's a good thing you were here. Your quick actions...."

Dianne cut him off. "Ah am aware of my actions and their consequences, Doctor. Now, please, leave us alone before Ah let mah temper get th' bettah of me." The doctor looked at Scott, who stood impassively, then turned on his heel and left.

"You were hard on him, Mom," Scott said, moving behind her so he could better see his father.

"Ah know, son. But damn it! I gave him enough clues! He should have gone back over the notes more thoroughly!" Dianne said angrily. She glanced up at her oldest stepson. "You'd best go tell your brother and Emily. Mebbe let one of them come back for a few minutes."

"FAB, Doc," Scott said, squeezing her shoulder and getting a slight smile for his troubles.

Gordon stopped pacing, but only because Scott had walked through the door. Two sets of eager eyes bore down on Scott.

"Dad's back in his room; looks like the got the puncture fixed just in time."

"Oh, thank heavens!" Emily was on her feet hugging both her grandsons and sending another silent prayer--of thanks.

"Mom said that one of you could go and see him for a few minutes."

Gordon hesitated, looking at his Grandmother. She understood.

"Go, go son, I'll be along in a while."

Gordon hugged her again and went to see his father.

"How's Dianne, Scott?"

"Mom's angry that they missed this. I am, too, for that matter."

"Well, they found it, an' fixed it, and that's all I'm worried about right now. Your father is a stubborn man, Scott Tracy; this won't beat him. You'll see. I didn't raise Grant's son to just up and leave me and you boys like this!" And with that she sat back down. Scott looked lovingly at this amazing woman. She'd outlive them all, of that he was sure.

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

"Mom?" Gordon asked gingerly as he entered his father's room.

"Gordon!" Dianne embraced him as they stood by Jeff's side. Gordon looked down at his father and tears welled in his eyes. He'd never seen his father so helpless, so vulnerable.

"You're gonna make it, Dad." Gordon squeezed Jeff's hand and then leaned closer to softly whisper, "I love you, Dad," in his father's ear. Then he stood and turned to Dianne, tears reflected in her eyes, too.

"I'll go get Grandma now."

Dianne nodded her agreement. "He loves you too, Gordon." she said gently. Now it was Gordon's turn to just nod, before closing the door after him.

Gordon headed slowly back to the VIP waiting room, hands in his pockets, thoughts on his father. So it was that he didn't see the blonde woman who pulled up beside him. She saw him, however.

"Gordon?"

Startled, Gordon looked up, and then smiled slightly. "Lady Penelope! It's good to see you."

"I came as soon as I heard. How is he?"

"It's been a near thing, Lady P. I've got to get my grandma and let her go back to see him. Come along; Scott can tell you more."

The IR agent nodded and followed the ginger-haired Tracy son. They entered the VIP waiting area where Scott and Emily waited.

"Grandma, you can go back now," Gordon said. The tiny woman embraced her grandson, then the blonde who followed him in.

"It's good to see you, Penelope. I'm sure that Jeff will be glad of your support. Now, please point me in the direction of my son's room?"

Scott smiled slightly and directed his grandmother to Jeff's room at ICU. After she left, Penelope said, "Now, tell me everything, from beginning to end."

Post by FrankieCTB2 and Tikatu on 04/07/2004


Jeff heartbeat Dianne plain My IR:TNP OTP!
Re: The Call Goes Out [message #589 is a reply to message #562] Mon, 23 July 2012 21:51 Go to previous messageGo to next message
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Sunday, February 26, 2068, 6 a.m., Mt. Sinai Hospital, NYC

Penelope stood just outside the door to Jeff's hospital room, gazing at the occupants. She had just returned from settling in at the Tracy family penthouse. The boys had taken Emily there in hopes of getting her to rest, and Penelope had gone along to help. They knew that nothing short of a major explosion would remove Dianne from Jeff's side, so the boys asked Penelope if she would select some clean clothes to bring for their stepmother to wear. She felt strange going into Jeff and Dianne's rooms at the penthouse, but in the end she had chose some comfortable slacks and blouses and brought along shower gels and shampoos so that Dianne could use what facilities there were.

It was strange and painful for her to see Jeff lying there so pale and still, his face bruised and swollen, his forceful personality diminished, his form helpless. Penelope tore her eyes away from the bed and focused them instead on Dianne, taking in the red-rimmed eyes and the tense look of worry and fear. She watched as Dianne gently brushed back a lock of silver hair from Jeff's forehead, her touch feather-light.

I could have been the one sitting there, Penelope thought, a wave of regret and envy suddenly surfacing. She tamped down on it mercilessly. I could have been. But Jeff and I weren't meant to be.

Penelope's mind rolled back to the day when she got an unexpected and frantic call from Emily Tracy, telling her all about, "...the new lady doctor. Mark my words, Lady Penelope. She's a gold-digger and no mistake. She's after our Jeff and before you know it, she'll have him, too, if you don't step up and speak your mind."

"But, Mrs. Tracy," Penelope had remonstrated, "If Jeff isn't interested in me...."

"Land's sakes, child! You'll never know if he is until you ask! This isn't the 20th century, you know. You've known my son long enough to do the asking."

Penelope's sense of decorum balked at what Emily was suggesting. It was true that she loved Jeff and would like to be the woman in his life. But she felt that she had made her feelings clear through her actions; inviting him places, especially that vacation at her ranch at Bongo-Bongo. She had hoped that he would have clearly seen her intentions from that weekend, but... he didn't. She knew that he still mourned Lucille and supposed that was the reason he hadn't really made any romantic move towards her.

If he's still mourning his late wife, nothing this doctor can or will say or do will move him. I have nothing to fear, she had thought at the time.

The phone calls from Grandma came frequently until one day the old woman had different, triumphant news to share.

"Yep, she's giving him the cold shoulder. The silent treatment. Whatever it was they argued about must have been a doozy. I expect her to pack herself and her children up and go back to where she came from any day now."

Penelope was surprised at how relieved she was at the news. You would have thought the sky was going to fall! I'll just wait for the news that she's left and then pay Jeff a social call.

The days turned into weeks, and the weeks turned into months. Grandma Tracy called infrequently now, mostly with news of John's recovery.

"He's getting better every day, Lady Penelope. I should have known that she'd at least stay until the end of his recovery; she seems to have that much professionalism in her. But," and here the old woman paused and when she continued, her voice sounded as if she were puzzled, "Jeff's been awfully short with everyone lately. He keeps looking at the doctor as if he wants her to say something to him. Seems he's bothered by her silent treatment. Well, I suppose anyone would be. She's kept it up long enough."

Three days later, Grandma Tracy called again, all in a dither. "I don't know what happened, Lady Penelope, but they are talking again. She's even smiling at him! And they've gone out for a long walk on the beach. Really, child! If you want to keep my son, you'd best get out here and do something!"

Penelope hesitated. She felt so odd, contemplating what she knew Emily wanted her to do. She went around and around in her head and heart about it. At first, it was only when she had free time to think, but then the subject and her thoughts about it began to press more and more into her work time, distracting her when she should be focusing on whatever was before her. It was when her daydreaming nearly cost her a bloodletting at the hands of a saboteur she was chasing that she resolved to do something about Jefferson Tracy.

She flew out to the Island, unannounced and unexpected. The boys were out on a rescue, but Jeff greeted her warmly and arranged for her to take the guest suite. Not the one she usually took, two doors down from his corner suite, next to Scott's room, but around the corner, next to John's room. The room she usually took was now occupied by the doctor and her daughter, while the one next to that had been handed over to the doctor's two sons.

Once she had freshened up, she went to the lounge and there she got her first glimpse of her rival. She was not impressed. The woman was older, greying, and though she was good-looking, Penelope knew herself to be beautiful; fashion model material to be precise. She walked up to the doctor and held out a lily-white hand, smiling.

"Lady Penelope Creighton-Ward."

The woman turned dark brown eyes to her and took the hand. "Dr. Dianne Koch. Pleased t' make yoah acquaintance." The southern drawl grated on Penelope's ears. Penelope sat down beside her, prepared to engage her in conversation, but her plans were foiled as Jeff called to the doctor.

"Doctor, Virgil needs you here."

The doctor turned briefly to Penelope. " 'Scuse me," she said as she got up to face Virgil's picture. Step by step she took him through a medical procedure and when she was through, a grateful Virgil gave her good news that the patient was stable.

"You did a good job theah, Vee."

"Well, I had a good teacher, Doc."

Jeff added his praise and Dianne sat back down. Penelope noticed that the two adults used their formal titles with each other. Good. There may be nothing to fear here after all.

"Why didn't you go out on the rescue?" Penelope asked bluntly. Dianne smiled.

"Ah'm still in trainin' when it comes t' rescue procedure," she explained. "Besides, Ah got a sick one in th' infirmary." She looked over at Jeff. "Speakin' o' which, Mistah Tracy, Ah'd better go down an' tend t' Tin-Tin."

"Of course, Doctor. Dismissed."

Dianne left the room, and Jeff turned his attention back to the rescue. After a moment, he looked over at Penelope and smiled.

"To what do we owe the honor of this visit?"

Penelope said airily. "Oh, I hadn't seen you and the family for some time and decided I should pay a visit. Purely a social call, I assure you."

"You're welcome here any time, Penelope," Jeff said absently, his attention mostly on the rescue.

Penelope sat back and smiled.

Over the next few days, Penelope observed Jeff and Dianne together. Since she was a guest, she supposed that Jeff was paying more attention to her than he allowed himself to pay to Dianne in her presence. But still, it was not as much as he had done in the past when she visited. Her presence had not stopped their evening walks on the beach and more than once they returned laughing and smiling at each other. Penelope's shrewd senses told her that Dianne was smitten with Jeff and though she refused to believe the reverse was true, she could see a definite connection between the two. A connection that she did not like. A connection that she was going to sever if she had her way.

To be sure of her facts, she paid a visit to Tin-Tin in the infirmary. The Malaysian girl had been laid low with a nasty flu and a bout of anemia. She had been confined to the infirmary until Dianne was satisfied that Tin-Tin had caught up on her rest and was fully recovered.

No one else seemed to be in the sick room, and Tin-Tin was dozing. Penny was loath to wake her, but she stubbed her toe on one of the diagnostic beds. Her not-very-ladylike curse woke the younger woman.

"Lady Penelope! I had heard you were here. I'm so glad to see you."

Penny smiled and moved over to her bedside. They chatted briefly about Tin-Tin's convalescence and about François Lemaire's latest fashions. Then Penelope skillfully turned the conversation to her topic of choice: Jeff and Dianne.

"What do think there, Tin-Tin? You're experienced at reading people. Is there any romance brewing?"

Tin-Tin's lovely face took on a thoughtful frown. "I do know that Mr. Tracy was not himself all the time that Dianne was angry with him. He was short with people. It really seemed to bother him that she wasn't talking to him. But after he apologized, things turned around dramatically..."

"Apologized? For what?"

"Oh, you didn't know? He didn't tell her about IR. She learned by accident; John's accident to be precise. She was very, very angry at what she saw as deceit on Mr. Tracy's part. After all, she has children to consider and it might have affected her decision to come here had she known. He hadn't told her because he said he was waiting to see how trustworthy she would be. But really, she's a physician. As our physician she's bound by law as well as morals to keep such a thing confidential. I felt he should have told her sooner. Then she would have been better prepared for John's surgery." Tin-Tin explained. "Finally, Mr. Tracy apologized for not telling her and that broke the ice. They've been friendly ever since."

"Just friendly?"

Tin-Tin sighed. "Well, I think that Dianne... likes... Mr. Tracy. Well, maybe likes isn't quite strong enough. Though I will say, he was the one to instigate their long walks. Wanted to make up for the time they lost during the Ice Age, as he calls it. I think that he's fond of her and she's become a confidante of sorts."

"But, any more than that?" Penelope pressed. "I really need to know."

"Well, I haven't really seen them touching or even holding hands. Just talking and spending time together. Nothing romantic." Tin-Tin cocked her head. "Why do you need to know?"

"Well, Tin-Tin, part of the reason I'm here is..." Penelope took a deep breath and let her words out in a rush, "...I'm going to ask Jeff to marry me!"

Tin-Tin's eyes widened and her mouth dropped open. "You're going to... what?!"

Penelope nodded. Her own sudden decision startled even her, but part of her wanted to consolidate her position with Jeff and this seemed to be the only way to cut out her rival.

"I'm going to propose! Tonight! I'm going to ask him to take ME for a long walk on the beach and then..." She noticed that Tin-Tin's eyes still bugged out and her mouth was still dropped open. "Well, we're not in the 20th century, you know. A woman can ask a man, can't she?"

Tin-Tin swallowed. "Y-Yes, she can, b-but isn't this rather... sudden?"

Penelope smiled. "Of course not! I've known him for two or three years now. It's time we took our relationship to another level."

Tin-Tin took a deep breath and let it out. Suddenly, a chime began to sound from the panel above her head.

"What's that?" Penelope asked. For the first time, she noticed the upgraded equipment in the sickroom.

"A warning. It thinks that something's not right with me. Dianne will be here any second."

"All right, Tin-Tin. I'll be back later to tell you what he says. Remember, mum's the word!" Penelope put a finger over her lips as she backed up to the door. With a final wink, she was gone.

Later, Penelope heard from Tin-Tin about what had happened after she left. How Dianne had arrived, coming from the office in the sick room, her face pale. Tin-Tin recounted how quiet she seemed as she examined her patient, asking only a few questions and listening to Tin-Tin's heart and chest. How Tin-Tin asked her softly if she had heard the conversation, and how Dianne's drawl had shown when she answered, "Does it mattah?"

Involuntarily, Penelope gasped a little and her thoughts were brought back to the present. Dianne heard the sound and turned her face towards the door. She smiled, just a little and rose from her chair. Penelope returned the expression; a smile of sympathy and understanding on her face as she walked quietly around the patient's bed and embraced Dianne.

"How is he?" she asked softly.

Dianne sighed. "He came out of th' first surgeries jes' fine, Penny. But he had a concussion. We're waitin' for th' brain swellin' to go down and for him t' wake up."

"Why don't I sit with him a while? You get some rest. You look like you could use some," Penelope offered.

Dianne lowered her eyes and smiled slightly. "Everyone wants me t' get some rest. Ah want t' be here when he wakes up."

Penelope nodded in understanding. "Then do you mind if I wait with you?"

"No, Ah don't. Be glad of th' company."

Post by Tikatu on 04/07/2004


Jeff heartbeat Dianne plain My IR:TNP OTP!
Re: The Call Goes Out [message #612 is a reply to message #589] Mon, 23 July 2012 21:59 Go to previous messageGo to next message
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Penelope pulled up another chair and the two women waited in a companionable silence. As Penelope's eyes searched Jeff's face for signs of consciousness, she was plunged again into remembering.

"Jeff, could you indulge me in a walk on the beach this evening?" Penelope asked at dinner, smiling winningly in Jeff's direction. Out of the corner of her eye, she could see the doctor suddenly put down her napkin. Jeff glanced over in Dianne's direction.

"Please, 'scuse me," she said quietly as she rose and left the table. Her children had already finished eating and been excused to their play.

"I suppose I could, Penelope," Jeff replied, his eyes following Dianne as she left. Penny could see his internal battle in his eyes; he wanted to get up and go after the doctor, but decorum required that he stay and entertain his guest. Gordon put down his napkin and excused himself from the table. Gone off to placate the doctor, unless I miss my guess, Penelope thought. She turned to Jeff.

"Excellent. I look forward to it. More coffee? Why, thank you, Kyrano."

As soon as dinner was over, Penelope waited for Jeff near the lounge door. He pulled up the small hovercar that would take them down to the beach level and came halfway up the stairs, stretching forth a hand. She met him and took it. Walking down together, they took the hovercar along the winding little pathway down to the ocean's side.

The moon was in its first quarter and shed some light on the scene, but nowhere near enough. Penelope had trouble seeing Jeff's face as she took his arm and they walked slowly along. A light breeze had sprung up, coming off the water, and Penelope breathed in the sweet, salt-laden air.

"This is lovely, Jeff. I wonder why we haven't done this more often."

She could almost hear the gears turning in Jeff's head as he sought for an appropriate reply.

"I guess it's because we've both been so busy, Penny. You in England and me here on the Island."

"Hmm. I suppose that's the reason."

They felt silent as they walked. She could feel the tension in Jeff's arm; he didn't like the silence, it was uncomfortable to him. Finally, she decided to throw caution to the wind.

"You know, Jeff, we've known each other for a while now. In that time, you've come to mean a great deal to me. So much so that I... I think I'm in love with you."

Jeff said nothing but his arm tensed even more. Penelope took her courage in both hands and continued.

"Now, I can't be certain, of course, but I think, looking back at some of your actions, that you might have feelings for me as well." She swallowed hard. "I know you've spent a long time mourning your lovely Lucille. But isn't it time to end all that? Isn't it time to look for love again? Isn't it time to let those feelings show?"

They stopped walking, and Jeff began to speak. "Penny, I...."

She put two fingers to his lips. "Please, Jeff. Let me finish before my courage fails me altogether. What I want to know from you is: would you... will you... will you marry me, Jeff?" She could hear the implied "please" at the end of her question and cursed herself for it.

Jeff said nothing. She could tell by his sharp intake of breath that he didn't expect this, that it was a complete shock to him. She waited, her hopes poised on the edge of a knife.

He took her hand from the crook of his arm, and reached down to grasp the other one.

"Penny, I..." He cleared his throat; it had been choked with emotion, and then took a deep breath. A good sign? she hoped.

"Penelope. I am flattered and shocked beyond all words that you have asked me to marry you. It's come as such a surprise to me. Not that you feel the way you do: you've made that abundantly clear over the past year and a half. But that you would pass by much younger and more virile men to choose me, someone who is old enough to be your father."

Penelope began to laugh. "Jeff, you're not old...." she countered.

He quietly shushed her. "Yes, compared to you, I am old. You are the age of one of my sons, Penelope. And as mature as you act, I can't get past that age difference. To me, it would be like... like marrying my own daughter. Most men my age would love to have you as a wife: you're beautiful, brave, intelligent." His voice dropped to a near-whisper. "I guess I'm not like most men, Penny. Because most men wouldn't still be mourning their wives after 20 years." He looked at her and she could see the depths of his eyes even in the darkness. "You deserve a man as young and vibrant as you are yourself. A man without the baggage of grief and pain. You deserve so much better than me."

He took another deep breath. "Penelope. As much as I appreciate your proposal and as much as I do care for you, I can't marry you. I'm sorry."

Penelope let go of his hands and took a step away, turning from him and crossing her arms over her chest as if cold. Cold as the ice that now covered her hopes and her heart.

"I don't suppose that your decision has anything to do with the good doctor, does it?" she asked, bitterness creeping into her voice. She heard him step up behind her.

"Dr. Koch? Why would it?" His voice clearly showed his confusion. Penelope spun around to face him.

"Don't you know? Are you blind? That woman is in love with you! And if your mother is to be believed, it's only for your money, not for your own person! She's not young enough to be your daughter, is she? She's safe! You don't have to go through any emotional or mental angst with her!" Penelope was shouting now and she didn't care. She had lost control in her fury. "And if you married her, you'd get that daughter you've always wanted!"

"Dr. Koch? In love with me? How do you know?"

"Oh, please. It's a plain as the nose on your face! The way she hangs on your every word! The soulful looks she gives you! The way she's finagled to walk with you every night even when you've had a guest! Oh, yes! That gold-digging doctor is in love with you, and you, Jefferson Tracy, are the biggest... chump that ever lived! Not only because you can't see it, but because you're letting her lead you down the garden path with your eyes wide open!"

"You're wrong, Penny. Dr. Koch is here as our family physician. True, she's become a confidante of sorts, but I'm the one who...."

Penny gave Jeff a little push. Then started to stride away, back down the beach towards the airstrip. "Believe what you like, Jefferson Tracy. I'm leaving. Leaving you to your fate. Tell Parker I will meet him at the jet and that I want to be off this Island within the half hour! Goodbye!"

She waited for him to run after her, to catch up with her and spin her around, apologizing profusely and drawing her to him in a bruising embrace and kiss. But it didn't happen. And as she made her angry way towards the cliff side hangar door, her tears fell, hot and salty, onto her expensive dress, her feet, and the sand.

"Penny? Lady Penelope?" She heard a masculine voice calling her from afar, but it wasn't Jeff's.

Scott? What is he doing here on the beach?

"Lady Penelope? Wake up."

Penny jerked awake suddenly. She looked around wildly for a moment, trying to get her bearings. Then her eyes lighted on Jeff and she remembered. She looked across the bed to see the top of Dianne's head. Her one-time rival had her head pillowed on one arm and that arm was flung across the edge of the bed. Gordon was there, trying gently to wake her.

The Brit looked up into Scott's blue eyes, so much like his father's. "No change, I gather?"

Scott shook his head. "No." He turned his attention to Dianne, who was blinking blearily at Gordon.

"Mom, why don't you go and get some sleep? We found both of you sitting here napping. Let me watch for a while, huh?"

Dianne gave Scott a look that said clearly: Don't mess with me.

"Ah have a bettah ideah, Scott. Why doesn't Gordon heah go and get some decent coffee for her Ladyship and me whilst you go check on Elise's condition? And mebbe phone back to the Ahland for an update. Or even go home an' start makin' arrangements for th' others to come out heah. Hmm?"

Scott and Gordon looked at each other. Gordon shrugged. "I'll go get the coffee," he said, leaving the room. Scott glared at Dianne for a moment. She regarded him coolly.

"I'll check on Elise," he growled. Then, with a loud huff of air, he turned and left the room.

Dianne looked at Penelope and gave her a slightly bleary smile. "They'ah good boys," she said.

"Yes, they are," Penelope agreed. And the two women fell back into their companionable silence as they watched Jeff Tracy sleep.

Post by Tikatu on 04/07/2004


Jeff heartbeat Dianne plain My IR:TNP OTP!
Re: The Call Goes Out [message #613 is a reply to message #612] Mon, 23 July 2012 22:13 Go to previous messageGo to next message
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Tracy Island, February 27, 2068

Kat, Nikki and Callie were eating their breakfast.

Some of the rescuers had returned yesterday and Kat and Callie had bombarded Brandon and Dom with questions about the rescue. Kat recalled the animosity between Christopher and Brandon. She had tried to calm the situation and at least the two had ended shaking hands. She inwardly shook her head; these were two of her newest friends and she liked them both. She hoped that maybe in time they would bury the hatchet and at least, if not be good friends, would be able to work together when a rescue was called.

Suddenly Kat was aware that Brains was talking to her.

"I would like your thoughts on Mr Tracy's seaplane. There is something just not right. I have my suspicions, but I would like to hear what you have to say."

Down in the boat pen, the seaplane had been winched into a dry dock so that the engines could be examined. Brains told Kat what he thought was the problem. Kat looked at the seaplane's engines very carefully. No, she thought, you are wrong, Brains, that is not the problem. She bit her lip; surely he must know what the real problem is. She turned to face him; he was watching her keenly.

Shall I agree with him, or tell him what the problem really is? She decided to be honest.

"Brains, I don't think you are right; in fact, I am sure you are quite wrong in your estimations. The problem you describe would not manifest itself in that way." By peering into the engines, totally forgetting herself in the beauty of the little plane, she went on to explain. "There appears to be something wrong with the compressor, the air is just not getting through and mixing with the fuel sufficiently well."

Brains looked startled. He had to admit that he had set a trick question, just to see how she would cope. She had passed with flying colours, not only correctly identifying the fault, but also being honest enough to tell him that he was wrong.

Brains laughed. "Hey, forgive me, I was just testing you to see how you would react. I was afraid that you might agree with me in an attempt not to go against my judgment."

Kat laughed with him. "Well, to be honest, if I made that kind of decision with FAB 1, then I would not be a very good mechanic, would I?"

For the next two hours, Kat and Brains worked on the seaplane. Kat became totally immersed in her work. She and Brains were forming a very good working relationship. She found herself telling him about her life and work with Lady Penelope. He wanted to know how such a small, feminine young girl had become interested in dirty and sometimes smelly engines. Kat explained that her father used to spend time working and doing up old engines, and by watching him she had become interested in them herself. "Mother was always saying that I used to come in as dirty as he was. I think she would have liked me to have a cleaner hobby, but really, engines just draw me like a magnet."

She added, "I am not really that feminine. I was always a bit of a tomboy at school, trying to compete with my two brothers. I hardly ever wore skirts, feeling much more comfortable in jeans and shorts and T-shirts."

Brains smiled at her; she had a streak of grease across her cheek.

Eventually Brains said. "Come on, grubby, it's time to finish for the day."

Kat straightened her aching back. "Grubby indeed, take a look at yourself," she said and she grinned at the bespectacled young man.

As they walked back to the monorail, Brains said, "You know, I think Mr Tracy made the right decision in taking you on. I had to admit that I was a bit skeptical that a young girl, and such a small one, could tackle the job in hand, but I have been proven wrong."

Kat smiled. "I am glad that I have proved myself capable."

She continued, "I have to admit, though, that learning that this was the headquarters of International Rescue was quite a shock, in fact I think I gave John quite a hard time when he was showing me around."

"Well, he won't hold that against you. In fact, he told me that he was glad you decided to stay."

Once back in her apartment, she peeled off her damp overalls, and after having a shower, changed into a swimsuit and sarong and headed for the pool. Walking through the now silent lounge, it was hard to imagine that just 12 hours ago it had been a hive of activity.

Lisa and Nikki were down by the pool. Kat flopped down beside them. "You look all in," Lisa remarked kindly.

"I have just spent two very intense hours with Brains working on Mr Tracy's seaplane, and now my back is aching."

"You need a massage. Let me help." Kat lay on her front and Lisa started to massage her tense muscles.

"Coo," Nikki said. "That looks so relaxing."

"It is," Kat mumbled, her face buried in her towel.

"There," Lisa said, "that should help."

"Have you settled in okay?" Lisa asked Kat as she rolled over and sat up.

"Yes, thank you. This is so very different from anything I have done in the past, but I shall enjoy the challenge. I enjoyed working with Brains this morning; in fact we have got off to quite a good start. He tried to trick me with a problem, but not only did I correctly diagnose the fault, I told him he was wrong."

Kat looked at Lisa. "That was wonderful, can I book you again, please?"

Lisa laughed. "Any time you feel tense, and I am not working on my daughter, by all means."

Going on to a more sober thought, Kat said, "I hope Mr Tracy is okay."

"So do I," Lisa answered, "but knowing my daughter, she will have something to say about him going off without telling any of us where he was going."

Post by Tawnyangel22 on 04/07/2004


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[Updated on: Mon, 23 July 2012 22:15]

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Re: The Call Goes Out [message #614 is a reply to message #613] Mon, 23 July 2012 22:16 Go to previous messageGo to next message
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Tracy Island, February 26th 2068

Kat excused herself and left Nikki and Lisa still sitting by the pool.

"I think I will try and contact my parents,"

She saw the look that Lisa gave her. "Don't worry, I won't say too much, but they deserve to hear from me."

Lisa nodded. "Yes, of course you must contact your parents."

Kat returned to her apartment. Before contacting her parents, she decided to have a drink and rest for a while.

Going into the kitchen she got some ice out of the ice maker and poured herself a long drink of fresh orange juice, and after adding the ice cubes, she walked to the French windows and went and sat out on the balcony on one of the chairs provided.

For a moment she looked out at the sea shimmering in the distance and at the line of palm trees, which she now knew lined the route for Thunderbird 2 to leave the island.

Suddenly she was lost in thought. She thought of the flight down to the island, meeting Nikki and Christopher. Oh, she smiled to herself, mustn't forget his cat. The warm welcome by Mrs Tracy. Being shown to this apartment. She stretched her legs feeling the luxurious warmth of the sun on her bare arms and legs. Yes, this is a truly wonderful apartment with the best ever view.

She thought about her tour of the island and the shock of being told that it was the headquarters of International Rescue. She was still a bit piqued that she hadn't been told at first. John had been very blunt with her, but later so patient, even though she had given him a hard time. Thinking of John brought a warm feeling. She had begun to like him a lot. She did hope that he would not forget to show her the stars.

Her thoughts strayed onto the rescue. Brains had brought her to the lounge. People she scarcely knew were busy preparing to go on the rescue. She had glimpsed Virgil and Gordon, and two of her new friends, Brandon and Dom had been asked to go on the rescue. They had both looked very nervous.

But now that rescue was over, they had come back, but Mr Tracy was seriously ill in hospital in New York. Kat hoped and prayed that he would recover. She remembered meeting him at Lady Penelope's New Year's Eve party. He was so charming with such a lovely new wife and family. What would happen if...? She shook her head. No, I'm not even going to think about that. He must get better, he has to get better. They all felt so helpless, everyone was going around in a daze. Why was life so unfair, she thought angrily, just when things were going really well and he was increasing International Rescue's personnel? She felt tears pricking her eyes. She rubbed them away angrily. Her thoughts continued to wander.

Brains had been funny, setting her a false problem, but she had told him he was wrong and had apparently passed with flying colours.

Slowly her eyes became heavy and she fell asleep.

Post by Tawnyangel22 on 04/07/2004


Jeff heartbeat Dianne plain My IR:TNP OTP!

[Updated on: Mon, 23 July 2012 22:16]

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Re: The Call Goes Out [message #615 is a reply to message #614] Mon, 23 July 2012 22:19 Go to previous messageGo to next message
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Tracy Island February 26th

Christopher sat on a lounge chair on the beach.

Asterix was indoors sleeping, or either that he was gamboling about with the children.

He smiled to himself. He hadn't expected the little cat to become such a valued member of the family in such a short time.

It was a distraction that was needed from Mr Tracy's problems, and he hoped upon all hope that he would be better soon and back home where he belonged. Here was a man who had decided to take him on, an ex-RAF pilot who just enjoyed flying. A man who trusted him.

Sighing to himself, he got up from the lounge chair and looked around his surroundings. For the first time in a long time, he was happy.

And with that, he began his walk back to the Villa.

His new home.

Post by TheWrongTrousers on 04/07/2004


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Re: The Call Goes Out [message #616 is a reply to message #615] Mon, 23 July 2012 22:23 Go to previous messageGo to next message
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Sunday, February 26, 2068, 4 p.m., Mt. Sinai hospital, New York City

Dianne stirred from the cot where she had been napping. Jeff's bed had disappeared again; the nurses and doctors had wheeled him down to the imaging labs to check on the brain swelling. There had been little or no change over the past few hours and the surgeon was talking brain surgery next to relieve the pressure. Dianne was worried; she knew how dangerous that would be for Jeff in his current condition.

She sighed, and got up from the uncomfortable bed, rubbing her aching back. She looked at her watch. It's Monday morning back at home. The kids will be leaving soon to come and see Jeff. It will be so hard for them to see him like this. Looking into the mirror over the sink, she took a minute to brush her hair and splash water on her face. Don't want Jeff to wake up to a rat's nest of hair and a filthy face, she thought with a pang, pushing thoughts of his not waking to the back of her mind. A light knocking drew her attention to the doorway. Elise Collins was there, sitting in a wheelchair.

"Dr. Tracy?" she asked hesitantly. Dianne smiled and walked over to her.

"Hello there, Elise. How are you feelin'?" Dianne responded.

"Like I've been kicked by a horse," Elise said frankly. She looked over at the spot were the bed had been. "How's Mr. Tracy?"

Dianne let out a breath. "He's holding his own. We're worried mostly about the brain swellin' right now."

"Dr. Tracy, I'm so sorry that all this happened. I feel so responsible." Elise looked down at her hands. Dianne crouched so she could look Elise in the eye.

"We all know it was an accident, Elise. Please don't beat yourself up about it."

"Yeah, I know. Scott reminded me about that," Elise said wryly. "By the way, have you seen Scott? He asked me a question and I promised him an answer."

"He's gone back to our home to pick up his brothers and sister and bring them out here to see Jeff," Dianne explained.

"Oh." Elise looked keenly at Dianne. "Is it true that you live on an island in the south Pacific?"

Dianne chuckled. "Yes, it's true. Why?"

"Scott suggested that I come out and stay with you for a while. So that the reporters can't hunt me down."

"An excellent idea. Will you come?"

"That's what I wanted to tell Scott. That I will come, if you'll have me."

Dianne smiled, her first real smile in hours. "Of course. We'll make all of the arrangements." She cocked her head at Elise. "Now, would you please tell me what in blazes you and mah husband were doing in New Hampshire?"

"I told Scott. He didn't tell you?" Elise asked.

"No, he didn't."

"Then I won't either. Except to say it was a surprise. A surprise for you."

Tears pricked at Dianne's eyes. "A surprise... for me?" Elise nodded.

"Well, Ah guess Ah'll just have to wait for him to wake up and remember, won't I?" Dianne said, trying to keep her voice from wavering. Suddenly, Jeff's bed appeared behind Elise. Dianne quickly moved the pilot out of the way, so that her husband could be rolled back into his room. Elise was shocked at Jeff's injuries, but still, he looked better to her than he had in the helijet. The doctor on duty followed. He looked at Dianne, and gave her a small smile.

"Good news, Dr. Tracy. The swelling is beginning to do down."

Dianne gasped. "Oh, thank God!" She looked down at Elise, who smiled slightly.

The doctor and nurses plugged Jeff back into his monitors and left, with the doctor giving Dianne an encouraging smile. Dianne immediately took up her position at Jeff's bedside. Elise grabbed onto a nurse's sleeve and the nurse stopped.

"Can you ask Scott to stop by when he gets back?" she asked. Dianne nodded and smiled.

"Don't you worry. We'll make all the arrangements," she repeated.

Elise nodded and the nurse wheeled her out and back to her room.

Dianne stood by the side of the bed for a long while, stroking back Jeff's hair and talking to him in low tones. When she tired of standing, she sat, holding his right hand, being careful not to disturb his IVs. The broken left arm still hadn't been set but Dianne noticed with a pang that the wedding ring had been cut off to accommodate the swollen fingers.

"Ah'll buy you a new ring, love. Ah promise. Just as soon as you're better," she whispered. Her eyes widened and she stood up suddenly as Jeff's head began to move and his eyelids began to twitch. He moaned softly; he had been taken off the ventilator a few hours before when the doctors determined that he could breathe on his own. Finally, the eyelids parted fractionally. Dianne could see his eyes moving around slowly, trying to make sense of where he was, and then they finally focused on her face.

"Hello, love," she said softly, smiling. "Welcome back t' th' land of th' livin'."

Post by Tikatu on 04/07/2004


Jeff heartbeat Dianne plain My IR:TNP OTP!
Re: The Call Goes Out [message #617 is a reply to message #616] Mon, 23 July 2012 22:24 Go to previous message
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With that, we end
Chapter One: The Call Goes Out.


Jeff heartbeat Dianne plain My IR:TNP OTP!
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