I'll Fight Hell to Hold You

Passage of Time

It had been almost six weeks since Eric had been placed into I.C.U. He hadn't responded since that point. The twins weren't in danger any more but they were still in distress. A nurse fed Eric every day since he could open his mouth and swallow. He was given solid food and water in hopes that he could get better. 

Gene had just finished his visit for the day. He had gone back home with the kids who were determined to get the nursery ready. Gene tried to keep up his happiness for the kids but he still cried every night. Paul or Tommy came by every day to check on him.

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                                                      Nine Weeks Later

Eric had now been in the hospital 15 weeks. The twins were due in March and it was November. He suddenly opened his eyes as a snowstorm blew in. Trying to focus on his surroundings, his eyes landed on a sleeping Gene. 

He reached out to touch Gene's leg since he still had an oxygen tube in his nose. "Gene?" he whispered. "I love you."

"Eric!? Baby, you're awake!" cried Gene, sitting up. "Oh my God! Baby!"

Gene hugged him gently, tears of happiness falling. "Oh, baby, I thought you were dead." He told Eric what had happened. 

Eric was still pale and badly in need of a shower but Gene didn't care. 

Once the doctor came in and checked Eric over, he said he'd move him back to a private room. "You'll be under observation for another week. If you improve, I'll allow you to go home."  

That night, Gene was able to help Eric shower and wash his hair. They stayed in there a long time. When they came out, Paul was waiting with dinner. "I went to I.C.U. and had to come back down so I hope it's not too cold."

"It's fine. Thanks." 

After hugging Eric, Paul left to go home and tell Tommy.