I'll Fight Hell to Hold You

Surgery

Eric was in the operating room having his vein re-attached. He was completely under, oxygen mask working extra hard. The babies were being monitored constantly. Eric's blonde hair was matted and blood covered. The surgeon was successful after two hours. He gave strict instructions not to have Eric disturbed after he was moved to I.C.U.

Gene was pacing frantically, his eyes red from constant crying. He stopped when the operating room doors opened. "Is he---?"

"Your husband is in critical condition at the moment. He is very weak. The twins are stable but it's touch and go. Eric will be in I.C.U. and is not to be disturbed for 48 hours. After that, he may only have visitors once every 12 hours."

Gene nodded silently and resumed pacing. His tears fell more freely now. Finally he collapsed into a chair, still crying. "Gene, come on, let's get you some rest." said Tommy quietly. "Please."

Tommy convinced Gene to eat and drink something. "I'll stay here. You go shower and try to rest. I promise we'll let you know if anything changes." Holding out his hand, Tommy pulled Gene to his feet. "I know Eric's pregnant again. It hurts, yes, but I'll be okay." "Let's take care of you too."

Gene followed Tommy to the cafeteria where Paul was waiting. "Paul's here too." "Come on, sit."

Paul practically fed Gene since the older man was so distraught. "Gene, we love you both. You need your strength too."

Gene reached out and grabbed Paul's hand. He broke down as Paul let him cry on his shoulder. "Let it out Gene. Let it out."

Finally Gene stopped crying and just sniffled and hiccupped. "Thank you." he whispered hoarsely. 

Tommy leaned in and hugged both of them. "I'm going to go get tissues."

Paul got Gene back to the room and had him shower. "You're going to rest." 

Gene fell asleep on the in-room couch almost immediately. He refused to leave for the next 48 hours.