Buddie: Partners in Fire

Chapter 43

Scene: Hospital Room, Two Weeks After Buck's Accident

Buck had been in the hospital for two week now, and the room had started to feel like a second home for Eddie. He hadn't left Buck's side except for brief moments to shower or grab a quick bite. The rest of his time was spent either comforting Buck or engaging him in light conversation, anything to distract from the pain and monotony of hospital life.

Christopher was being cared for by Carla and occasionally Maddie, who took turns ensuring he was safe and happy. Despite their best efforts, Christopher missed his dad and Buck terribly.

One afternoon, Eddie's phone buzzed with an incoming call. He glanced at the screen and saw Carla's name. Stepping out into the hallway, he answered.

Eddie: "Carla, is everything okay?"

Christopher: "Hi, Dad, it's Christopher. I miss you."

Eddie: "Hey buddy!"

Eddie's heart ached at the sound of his son's voice. He had been doing everything he could to shield Christopher from the stress and worry, but hearing his voice, full of longing, was a stark reminder of the emotional toll.

Eddie: "I miss you too, mijo. How are you doing?"

Christopher: "I'm okay. Carla and Maddie are taking good care of me. But I miss Buck. When can I see him?"

Eddie sighed, his heart heavy with the knowledge that he couldn't bring Christopher to the hospital.

Eddie: "I know you miss him, mijo. Buck misses you too. But the doctors say it's not a good idea for you to come here right now. He needs to get better first."

Christopher: "Okay, Dad. Tell Buck I love him very much."

Eddie: "I will, Chris. I promise. And don't forget that Buck loves you too so much buddy."

They chatted a bit longer before saying their goodbyes. Eddie leaned against the wall, taking a moment to compose himself before returning to Buck's room.

When he reentered, Buck was awake, his blue eyes following Eddie's every move.

Buck: "Was that Chris?"

Eddie nodded, taking a seat beside Buck's bed.

Eddie: "Yeah, he misses you. A lot. He wanted to come see you, but I told him he can't yet."

Buck's expression softened, and he sighed deeply.

Buck: "I miss him too. So much. It's hard not being able to see him."

Eddie reached out, taking Buck's hand in his own.

Eddie: "I know, Buck. But we'll figure something out. He said that he loves you, and I said that you love him."

Buck: "I really love your kid Eddie, as if he were my child."

Eddie: "I know Buck... I know."

Later that day, Bobby arrived for one of his regular visits. He brought fresh clothes and a few comfort items for Eddie, knowing how difficult it was for him to leave the hospital even for a short time.

Bobby: "How are you guys holding up?"

Eddie: "We're managing. It's tough, but we're getting through it."

Bobby turned to Buck, his concern evident in his eyes.

Bobby: "How about you, Buck?"

Buck smiled weakly.