JJ lost her grip over Garcia. She ran as fast as she could. She could barely see, the tears blurred her vision. She grasped for air as she ran as fast as she could down the seemingly never ending hospital hallway. She turned a corner and almost tripping on a supply cart, reached the doorway. She grabbed on for balance, gasping for air.
"Derek..." She barely managed to whisper as she stared at his body, covered in wires and tubes, breathing mechanically. She was in shock. "He's alive," she told herself. "He's alive." She moved closer, barely lifting her feet off the ground. She took his hand. Garcia has never seen Derek this weak. He was always the gallant champion, rescuing the damsel, saving the day. Now, he was nothing. He didn't have any witty comebacks, sassy remarks, fire in his eyes, everything she loved about him. She just wanted him to sit up and give her that amazing smile that could brighten her day in an instance. She touched his hand, and the warmth of his body sent a shiver down her spine. All she ever wanted to be was wrapped in his arms, and how he physically can't hold her.
Rossi stood at the doorway. "Penelope..." She turned quickly and he saw the pain in her eyes. "Why? Why does this happen? Why do bad things happen to good people? He was being a hero and saving the day and got punished for it. I don't understand why the world is so evil," Garcia sobbed. Rossi walked into the room and stood behind Garcia as they both looked at Derek. Rossi put his hand on her shoulder as she shook and said, "Penelope, everything happens for a reason. Derek saved that girl. He stopped a bad guy. He knew this could happen but he risked his life for hers. That's the kind of person he is." "I just want him to talk to me. To look at me. Will he ever be the same person?" Garcia asked. "With the right medicine, he'll physically be back within a few months. But mentally... Well that's more up to us," Rossi said. With a sigh, he turned to leave, but at the door he stopped and said, "It'll be ok." Garcia looked up and gave him a smile, but wondered if it really would be.
