Hide Your Heart

Day Two

Early on the second day, Tommy woke up around one a.m to an unfamiliar room. He freaked out and started fighting with the wires and other equipment. A nurse ran in and over to the bed. 

"Mr. Thayer, calm down. You're in the hospital. Don't you remember?" She put her arms around Tommy until he calmed down. "Sh, you'll make your fever elevate."

Sniffling, Tommy finally calmed himself enough to listen to her. She read through the list of things that had been done and the list of future testing. "You have severe pneumonia and dehydration. Your temperature is elevated slightly also."

The nurse's touch soon calmed Tommy down so he could think clearly. " Am I going to be okay?" he finally asked.

"Yes, you are a bit underweight too." "The doctor wants to give you a breathing test later so I need you to try to get more sleep." " Would you like me to bring you anything?"

"No ma'am. I'm fine. Thank you anyway."

After the nurse left, Tommy closed his eyes and tried to go back to sleep. He drifted off around two.

When Paul peeked in later, around nine, Tommy was still asleep. Paul backed out and closed the door quietly. He had brought a new book for Tommy that had been ordered before the overseas trip.

Going down to the cafeteria, Paul ordered coffee and breakfast. While he waited on it, he absentmindedly started doodling on a napkin.

"Here's your breakfast sir." said the waitress, causing Paul to look up. 

"Thank you."

After about an hour Paul headed upstairs again. This time the doctor was in the room. Paul pushed open the door and went in. He stood in the corner until the doctor left. 

"Hey, baby. " Tommy finally said. "I have more tests later. I want to go home." 

"Hey, babe. I know you do and not until you're better. I brought your book you ordered."

Paul kissed Tommy's cheek and sat down. They talked, held hands and just past the time until it was time for the first test.