Teen Titans: A Hero's Rebirth

Chapter 2: Starting the Recovery

Disclaimer: I do not nor have I ever owned Teen Titans.

Starting the Recovery

Speedy stood outside the building and took a deep breath. He was already experiencing symptoms of withdrawal but fortunately they were minor.

"It's nice here," said Raven. She had driven Speedy to the rehabilitation facility just outside Jump City after he was released from the hospital.

One could mistaken this for a country club or a vacation resort. The grounds were tastefully landscaped and a sense of tranquility was prevalent.

Speedy grabbed his bags and started walking towards the glass doors hesitating at the last minute. Raven reached out and held his hand. "You can do this," she whispered and gave him an encouraging smile.

They walked in together and Speedy completed the long check-in process before he was shown his room. It is simply furnished but comfortable.

Raven scrutinized Speedy as he stood by the large window watching the view. He looked so far removed from his confident, brash, playboy superhero persona. She sincerely hoped he could find himself and return to his former form.

"You're watching me," remarked Speedy as he turned to face his teammate.

"And they say I'm the empath," retorted Raven.

"I could say I felt your eyes on me from the back of my head, but in reality I noticed your refection in the glass," replied Speedy.

"Observant, as usual," smiled Raven.

Speedy looked at Raven and asked, "So you're leaving now?"

"Yes, but I will visit every day, unless something comes up but then I will let you know. And of course the others will visit as well. You're not alone, you know," Raven said reassuringly.

Speedy pulled Raven into a hug and held her tight. "I'm scared," he whispered.

"I believe in you, we all believe in you. You just have to believe in yourself," said Raven.

Speedy kissed Raven's forehead. "Thank you, for everything," he said and glazed down at his teammate, "And especially thank you for not judging me or pitying me."

Raven looked into Speedy eyes and replied. "We all have our own demons. Mine happens to be a real demon, ironically. Yours, I think, is more about how you see and judge yourself," Raven sighed. "It has been a long day so you need your rest. I'll see you tomorrow."

Raven left and Speedy felt a weight on his chest which he knew was not the result of withdrawal.