Badges and Bikes

Chapter 12

Finally home after eight days in the hell hole! I have missed my bed so much! I just want to walk all over the house and touch everything, Kind of like staking my claim again. It will take me a while to be able to go back to work though. Doctor Reynolds said that it can take a month or two. I don't think it will take more than a few weeks. I am making myself get back in the rat race called Crazy Butte Police Department. They will not keep me down for long. They will never beat me! Even if it kills me.

My phone rings as I am trying to get to the recliner from the wheelchair. I have to let it ring until I can get settled. Of course mom refuses to allow me to do anything that Dr. Reynolds didn't say that I could do. So within the next few days I will be resting peacefully at home. 

I don't get to the phone in time before it stops ringing. I start to engage the electric extension of the chair. But mom beats me to it. My feet go up and my back lays back. "Mom, I am still able to push a button. But I appreciate all of your help." I tell the woman who has always been the backbone of my family.

Everyone has their special place in our beehive. Gpa is our foundation, the rock on which we were built. Gma is our beams, she is beautiful' strong, and essential. Asher and Heaven, are our metal roof, they are always watching over us and protecting us from the worst of the storms. Mom is our kitchen, she is an awesome cook and caretaker, she feeds our souls and minds. Dad is our external walls, he keeps us wrapped together and safe from the wind storms. Auntie Kaylee is our nursery, she works hard to protect the children, of course she has Logan and Alex to help her in that area. Carl and Lana are our den, they make sure everyone is comfortable and secure. Uncle Jamie and Shawna are the dining room, they make sure that we are together and enjoy playing together, no matter where we are located. Me? I think that I'm the welcome mat. No matter who stomps on me, I raise my chin and keep going with a friendly smile and handshake. My brothers and cousins haven't made up their minds about their rolls in our lives yet. I think that Jax and Trace are closer than the others. Jax is turning into the attic, he likes to stand back and watch over everyone. Even though they are both going into law, Trace is a lot less quiet and watchful as Jax. Trace likes to play games and get loud at gatherings. 

But nobody hovers like mom when one of us is hurt or sick. I am the type that can't stand to be waited on like she does. I will end up losing my shit before the recovery is complete. I think that she sees it too. Hopefully he will distract her soon.

"I know you can sweetie. I just wanted to do all I can before I push you too far. What would you like to eat? It is a little before noon."

"Really? I didn't think that it was so late. Can I have some spaghetti? That would be amazing!" My mouth started watering at the thought.

"I'll get right on it. Garlic toast and salad?"

"No salad. Just the toast. Please?!"

"If that is what you want, sweetie. I'll be in the kitchen if you need me." Mom kissed my forehead and went to start the lunch for me.

"You are the most awesome mom! Thanks for everything that you do for us, mom." 

She turned and smiled at me. Her face was lit with pride. "You make it easy to be a good mom, Ash. I love you more than you'll ever know. Now I need to get busy with your lunch."

"I love you too, mom!" I watch as she disappears into the kitchen. 

I check my phone to see that the call was gma. I start to return the call when my phone rings again with dad's face. "Hi, dad!" I answer cheerfully.

"Well from the sound of your voice, I'm assuming that you were sprung from the hospital." He chuckles into the phone.

"You are correct, dad. I am currently in my recliner and mom is making spaghetti for lunch."