I would like to thank all my friends who kept telling me that I should write DM Fan fictions besides coming up with ideas for others to write. This is a Steve hurt/comfort and/or a Steve/Mark Relationship Story.

This is a Steve based story.

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Dr. Mark Sloan’s Nightmare

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Steve storms into the beach house slamming the door behind him. Walks by his dad and totally ignores Jesse and Amanda, and then without saying a word to any of them walks down to his unit.

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“I guess he heard.” Mark commented.

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“I would say that’s an understatement.” Said Amanda.

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“Steve can’t be mad too long Mark can he? I mean the guy is innocent.”

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“I don’t know Jesse Steve seemed pretty steamed but you’re right I had to do what I could to make sure an innocent man didn’t spend another night in jail.”

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“Mark do you want us to stay and back you up?”

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“No thanks Amanda Steve and I need to work this out. It won’t be the first time we butted heads when it came to one of his suspects.”

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Jesse and Amanda said goodbye to Mark and good luck telling Mark he was going to need it.

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Mark approaches Steve’s unit cautiously and knocks on the door. “Who is it?” Steve answers sharply.

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“It’s your dad Steve we need to talk.”

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Steve sighs “Come in Dad.”

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“Steve I know you’re upset but I just couldn’t let an innocent man stay in jail.”

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Steve calming down said “Dad all the evidence points to him as the only one who could have done the murder. I’m just worried about what’s going to happen when you finally realize that you’re wrong.”

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“Steve I’m not wrong…please son can we get this behind us?”

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“Ok Dad.”

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Unknown to Mark Steve had no intention of putting the case behind him. He knew Henry Brown was guilty and he was afraid of what would happen to Mark if Mark ever realized that he had been duped. He was also worried about how close Mark was getting to Henry. So Steve followed Mr. Brown around gathering the evidence that he needed working virtually non-stop. Finally he had what he needed and took it to Captain Newman.

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“Good going Lieutenant! We have enough for a conviction. But we are going to need your testimony if we expect to win in court. Now I suggest you get some rest your testimony is going to be crucial.”

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Captain Newman comes into Mark’s office. “Dr. Sloan Steve has found enough evidence that there is no doubt anymore Henry Brown is guilty. Now where is he so we can pick him up?”

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“Captain that can’t be right. I know my son is a good cop but in this instance I think he’s wrong all the evidence is circumstantial.”

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“Not anymore Dr. Sloan. Take a look.”

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Mark takes a look at the evidence that Steve was able to gather. “I don’t believe it Steve was right!”

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“Dr. Sloan where is Mr. Brown?”

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“I invited Henry for an early dinner at the beach house today. Before Steve got off work.”

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“Dr…Mark I sent Steve home to get some much needed rest.”

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“And if Henry Brown knows that Steve found the evidence that was needed..”

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“Steve is in a lot of trouble.” The captain finished.

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While Mark, Captain Newman and several other policemen are rushing to the beach house Steve is unaware of the danger he is in as he sleeps peacefully on the couch.

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Suddenly there is a loud knocking on the door and Steve drowsily opens the door. Henry Brown gives Steve a sharp punch in Steve’s stomach which doubles Steve over in pain. Then he punches Steve repeatedly in the head and delivers a kick to his head while Steve is unconscious. He hears the sirens and knows he doesn’t have a lot of time. He takes Steve’s keys and escapes with Steve’s squad car with the siren blaring as he races through traffic.

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Mark, Captain Newman and the policemen notice Steve’s car going the opposite way. They also notice Steve’s not in the driver’s seat. Captain Newman signals the policemen in pursuit while Mark and Captain Newman continue onto the beach house. Mark getting more worried each passing moment.

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Captain Newman pulls into the driveway and Mark rushes out hardly waiting for the car to stop. He hurries into the beach house and sees Steve crumpled near the front door. Mark goes to Steve and checks him out. “Call an ambulance fast” Mark yells to Captain Newman as he’s walking up the steps.

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Mark did his best to examine Steve while waiting for the ambulance. Mark knew it was bad just by looking at Steve. While Mark was taking care of Steve, Captain Newman was checking on the pursuit of Henry Brown. They had caught him without incident and were now bringing him in to be booked.

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The ambulance arrived and the EMTs and Mark got Steve ready to transport and Mark insisted that he was going into the ambulance with his son. The ambulance arrived with a still unconscious Steve and a very worried Mark.

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Jesse met the ambulance and escorted Steve to an examination room and told Mark to find Amanda and wait. Jesse examined Steve and then took him to surgery while Mark found Amanda and she waited with Mark for news of Steve.

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After several hours Jesse comes into the doctors’ lounge Mark sees him and is immediately afraid of what Jesse is going to tell him as he sees the expression on his young friend’s face.

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“How’s..my…Son Jesse?” Mark tried to express in words how he was feeling.

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“Mark, Amanda,” Jesse tried to not let his emotions get to him, “Steve went into a coma during surgery.”

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“Oh no Steve! This is all my fault!”

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“Mark don’t do this to yourself” pleaded Amanda.

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“This is my fault Amanda.”

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“Steve told me Henry Brown was evil but I just didn’t listen to him.”

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Jesse then said “Mark I think you should talk to our neurologist Dr. Thompson.”

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“Jesse I want to see my son first.”

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“Mark I talked to Dr. Thompson and he knows a lot more than we do about Steve’s condition. It would help Steve to have some expert advice.”

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Mark sighed. “Ok Jesse I’ll talk to Dr. Thompson and then I want to see my son.”

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Dr. Thompson was in his office when Mark and Jesse knocked on his door, Amanda having to leave to do an autopsy. “Come in.” “Mark and Jesse came in and greetings were made.

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“Dr. Sloan I’m sorry about what happened to your son and I know you want to see him right away. But I think you may find what I tell you helpful. As you know a coma is a deep state of unconsciousness, during which an individual is not able to react to their environment..”

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“Dr. Thompson, Mark interrupts I know all this please get on with it.”

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“There are two definitions one is someone in a coma cannot respond to any form of stimulation whatsoever. The person in a coma does not experience reactivity or perceptivity. The patient can not be aroused by calling their name or experiencing pain..”

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“Dr. Thompson am I right that a person in a coma usually wakes up within four weeks?”

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“Yes Dr. Travis that is correct.”

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“Another one is that coma is a sleep-like state from which an individual has not yet been aroused.”

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“Does this mean that it is possible to wake up my son?”

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“Dr. Sloan I have read of cases where thousands of individuals have eventually been aroused from coma. The danger in that portion of the definition is in its interpretation, not by the families, but by the professionals who erroneously assume that since the individual cannot be aroused, then no effort should be made to arouse the individual, and such a statement becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy. Such attitudes lead to further family frustration, now compounded by despair and by anger. I usually ask the patient’s spouse what he or she would like to do, but in the case of your son Dr. Sloan you are Steve’s next of kin.”

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“Dr. Thompson what do you suggest?”

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“I suggest a constant flow of communication. Say his name as much as possible. And remember that just because he cannot tell you that he hears you it doesn’t mean he can’t.”

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“Dr. Thompson why the diverse definitions?”

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“Dr. Travis as you know the brain is very complex. There is so much we don’t know. For example autism. In the 1950s and 1960s, the medical community generally incorrectly believed autism was a psychological disturbance caused by detached, or uncaring mothers. Later this was belief was completely disproven. For decades, generations of mothers of children with autism were unfairly accused of causing their child’s disorder. We know now that’s not the case. Autism was proven to be a biological condition.”

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“What can we do Dr. Thompson?”

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“The same as parents with autistic children just hope. And Dr. Sloan you are not going to do your son any good if you carry on with this guilt of yours.”

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“…I know you’re right in here Dr. Thompson, Mark pointed to his head, but in my heart I feel over-whelming guilt that I didn’t listen to my son.”

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“Well Dr. Sloan if you intend to help your son you need to get through to your heart because it’s going to take lots of patience, perseverance, and above all love to spend as much time as possible talking to your son to try to get a response.”

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“I’ll do it Dr. Thompson thank you very much.”

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“Correction Mark, said Jesse, we’ll all do it.”

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“I’ll arrange with the nurses and other staff to allow someone in your son’s room at all times.”

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“Mark I’ll talk to Amanda and let her know the plan. I’ll also talk to Captain Newman and see if he can round up some fellow officers of Steve’s to help. I also think it’s best Mark if we did this in two hour shifts. That way we won’t strain our voices as much.”

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“Thanks Jesse. I think that’s a great idea. I’m going to see my son now.”

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“Mark!” Jesse calls to him as he’s walking away. “Wouldn’t you like to know which room number in ICU Steve is in?”

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“Sorry Jess. I got in a hurry.”

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“Mark I understand. He’s in ICU # 5.”

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“Thanks Jess.” Mark said as he went to ICU.”

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Mark went into ICU # 5. He did not like seeing all the tubes and the breathing apparatus, hooked up to his son but he knew they were necessary. After a few minutes of looking at his son and wishing that he had not been so stubborn he started to talk to Steve.

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“Steve you have to wake up son. You have to tell me I was wrong and you were right. I know how much you are looking forward to that. Steve we are not going to give you a moment’s peace. Right now Jesse is enlisting an army of volunteers to help us talk to you to get you to wake up. Steve if you want some peace and quiet you’d better wake up because we are going to make sure that there is always someone in this room talking to you and saying your name as much as possible until you do.

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Mark went on to spend his two hours singing to Steve and saying his son’s name over and over. Then it was Jesse’s turn.

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“Steve this is Jesse. I don’t know how to tell you this but I changed the menu at Bob’s we are going to be serving nothing but salads. Steve I don’t know what else to say yea I know that’s strange. So I’m going to spend my time saying nursery rhymes so if you get tired of them all you have to do is open your eyes or twitch or make any kind of gesture to let me know you’re awake. If not well I hope you like Mother Goose stories.”

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Next it was Amanda’s turn and she spent her time talking about what CJ had been doing for the past few days. While Amanda was talking Mark gave Steve a shave. Mark interrupted Amanda a couple of times to explain to Steve how he was putting shaving cream on him and then using a razor to give his son a shave. Telling Steve that he knew he didn’t want to be growing a beard and a mustache.

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Captain Newman and other officers also came in and told Steve about the upcoming trial of Henry Brown and those that were married told him what their children had been doing in school.

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Twenty-four hours were then up and still there was no response from Steve. Mark had been with his son as much as possible only leaving when Jesse or Amanda had insisted that he get something to eat or take a nap.

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This went on for four days. On day five Mark had to leave his son’s bedside to talk to Dr. Thompson and Captain Newman. As much as he wanted to stay Mark knew that the meetings were important and concerned his son.

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He left Steve in Jesse’s care. “Ok Steve” Mark could hear Jesse say “Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall….” Mark smiled he wondered what Steve was going to do to Jesse ‘when’ he woke up. Mark had been trying to think positive. So it wasn’t ‘if ’ his son woke up it was ‘when’ his son woke up. He had been told earlier by Dr. Thompson that while an individual in a coma is unresponsive, we have no way of determining what the individual can hear or may be aware of.

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Mark’s first meeting was with Dr. Thompson. “Hello Dr. Thompson I was told you wanted to talk to me about my son.” “Yes Dr. Sloan this is day number five for your son being in a coma and I wanted to let you know where we stand. As a general rule, if a patient in a coma survives the first seven to ten days following the injury to the brain, then long-term survival can be expected. “So there is still hope?” Questioned Mark. “We still have a couple of days.” “Dr. Sloan like I tell all family members there is always hope. Sometimes that’s all we have. I also wanted you to be aware that it is often the case that some parts of perceptivity such as speech and self-care must be relearned. “Is there any way I can help?” “Dr. Sloan I’d like to attach an electrical stimulation to your son.” “Why?” “Studies have shown that some patients with brain injuries and coma can show improvement from the use of electrical stimulation.” “Dr. Thompson how will it work I don’t want anything that will give my son pain to be used.” “It won’t Dr. Sloan when Median Nerve Stimulator is started, two small electrode pads are stuck to the inner side of the right arm. These are connected to a small electrical stimulator. This device is used during the daytime in an effort to ‘wake up’ the brain during normal hours. In one protocol, the device is used four hours the first day, then eight hours per day after that.

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Mark’s second meeting was with Captain Newman. “Mark I wanted to give you the news personally… The judge has declared a mistrial in Henry Brown’s case.” “A mistrial the judge can’t be serious.!” “I’m sorry Mark. We did all we could but without Steve’s testimony the defense attorney pleaded we had no case and the judge agreed. It’s still possible to go with another trial if Steve recovers but until then.. “Not ‘if’ Steve recovers Captain when he recovers.” Corrected Mark. “Hold on Mark that’s not the worse part.” “What could possibly be worse Captain.” “We have to let Mr. Brown go. Without enough evidence for a trial we have no choice.” “What about Steve’s beating?” “Mr. Brown is now saying that your son gave him his car keys and he has no idea what happened.” “They can’t possibly believe something as ludicrous as that!” “Mark it’s not what they believe it’s about not having evidence. Nobody was in the house except for Steve and Mr. Brown.”

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“I’ll get the evidence!” “Hold it Mark.” Captain Newman gestured to a couple of guards. “I want Dr. Sloan, Dr. Jesse Travis, and Dr. Amanda Bentley to be watched round the clock.” “Captain Newman you can’t be serious!” “Yes I am Dr. Sloan. Your son made me promise that if anything ever happened to him that I’d make sure you wouldn’t be able to do anything as he put it ‘stupid’. Said he’s had nightmares about what happened several years ago. Mark said “Steve never told me he had nightmares about me being in prison.” “I’m sure he didn’t want to worry you Dr. Sloan but your son’s request is not the only reason I’m making sure you have someone with you at all times. Chief Masters threatened myself and anyone else that was found responsible if something did happen to you, and Dr. Sloan I DO NOT look good in a meter maid suit!”

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After the meetings Mark went back to Steve’s room. Dr. Thompson had just finished hooking up the Median Nerve Stimulator that would be hooked up to Steve for four hours the first day in hopes of stimulating Steve’s brain to ‘wake up’.

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After the Neurologist was done and had left Mark alone with his son except for the two guards that were now Mark’s constant companions, Mark began to talk to his son. “Steve why didn’t you tell me you’ve been having nightmares of my being in jail on death row.? …I’ve had nightmares of you being hurt ever since they pinned that badge on you. My nightmare came true years ago. I was hoping I’d never have to go through this again. And now since I refused to listen to you I’m faced once again with my nightmare. Please son wake up. I need you. Life just wouldn’t be the same without you son.”

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Mark continued to talk for several hours until Amanda and her guards showed up. “Mark you need to take a break I’ll stay with Steve and talk to him.” “I see Captain Newman has guards on you to” Mark said trying some levity, he must really be afraid of Chief Masters’ threat to turn him into a meter maid.” “Yes they are all taking Chief Masters’ threat quite seriously” said Amanda.

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Mark walked out of the room with his two guards and practically ran into Jesse and his two guards “Sorry Jess I wasn’t looking where I was going.” “Or Mark you are overly tired. I suspect the latter. Mark you need to get something to eat and some sleep.” “I can’t Jesse it’s almost day six of Steve in a coma. The window where if Steve wakes up the prognosis for a full recovery is diminishing.” “Mark you aren’t doing anyone any good not watching where you’re going now come with me. You know Steve would be upset if he knew you weren’t taking care of yourself.” Mark sighed. “You’re right Jesse. But I just don’t feel like nourishment.” “I know you don’t but you need something anyway.”

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Jesse led Mark to the cafeteria closely followed by their constant companions. Jesse orders Mark a sandwich and Jesse and his guards go into the kitchen. Jesse and his guards come out a few minutes later and Jesse hands Mark a cup “Apple juice?” Mark said with surprise as he looked into the cup. “Trust me Mark apple juice is good for you. Besides this is special apple juice.” “What makes it special?” “You’ll see. Now eat your sandwich.” Mark was only able to eat a few bites. “Jess I’m sorry I just can’t eat anymore.” “That’s ok Mark I understand but I want you to drink your apple juice.” Mark drinks most of the apple juice. Jesse then gently took the cup away. “Jess what are you doing?” “Mark I know you’ll do better if I let you lay down in Steve’s room. I’ve ordered a cot to be put in there. Come on Mark I’ll help you there.” “Jess I can walk myself.” “I know you can Mark but let me help you.” Jesse helps Mark into Steve’s room. Mark is surprised at how exhausted he is feeling. Jesse eases Mark onto the cot. “You put something in that apple juice didn’t you Jess? That’s why it was ‘special’ apple juice.” “That’s right I did Mark. Now you have no choice but to go to sleep.” Mark was slightly irritated at being given the sedative without his knowledge but he did admit he needed the sleep. Soon Jesse and Amanda could hear snoring coming from Mark.

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“Amanda I’ll take over now I think Steve wants to hear more Mother Goose stories.” “Jesse Steve is going to get back at you for doing this.” “Hey and I really want him to get back at me Amanda…. Now where were we ah yes ‘Mary Had A Little Lamb’…

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As Jesse was telling Steve more nursery rhymes the nurse came in and removed the Median Nerve Stimulator for the day. Tomorrow if necessary it would be on for 8 hours instead of 4.

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Day six started with Steve still in a coma and Mark sleeping on the cot. Mark slept for several hours. When he woke up he looked at Steve. Steve had a big smile on his face. “Hi Dad. Sorry I slept for so long.” Mark ran over to his son. “Steve I don’t care you’re awake that’s all that matters” as he gently hugged his son. All was right with the world Steve was awake.

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Then Mark jumped out of bed. “He’s awake, he’s awake!” “Mark, I’m sorry you must have been dreaming” said Captain Newman as he was taking another turn talking to Steve. “Nonsense, I saw his eyes open he spoke to me it couldn’t have been a dream.” “Mark the guards and I have been right here. Steve has not moved. I’ll call Dr. Travis if you’d like.” “..Thanks Newman.” Mark said clearly disappointed that it was a dream his son was awake and talking and not reality.

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Jesse, his guards and a nurse arrived. The nurse put the Median Nerve Stimulator back on. While Jesse asked what was the matter.

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“I’m sorry Jesse I just had a dream that Steve was awake and I overreacted” Mark said sitting down on the cot feeling despondent. “Mark don’t worry about it.” Jesse glanced at Steve and noticed his left hand jerking. “Mark get over here fast it looks like your dream is coming true after all!”

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Mark ran to Steve’s side and saw Steve’s hand jerking. Jesse removed the Median Nerve Stimulator. Mark watched his son. A few minutes later Steve’s eyes opened and he saw his father and smiled.

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“Oh son I’m so happy you’re awake.”

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“Da” Steve said having trouble forming the last ‘d’ sound in ‘Dad’. But Mark didn’t care. That simple word spoken by the person he loved the most in this world meant everything to Mark.

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“Yes Steve I’m right here. I’ve been with you as much as possible.”

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Jesse calls Dr. Thompson and tells him Steve is awake and asks him to come as soon as he can.

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Meanwhile Captain Newman takes his leave telling them he’ll get back as soon as he can. He has to check the progress of the case now that his best detective is awake.

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Dr. Thompson came and he checked Steve’s speech and hand and leg muscle control. Steve soon tired out so the doctor quit the tests and had Mark and Jesse follow him out of the room. The guards closely followed behind.

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“Dr. Sloan first off what’s with these guards following you and Dr. Travis around. May I presume there’s also one on Dr. Bentley?” “Yes. There is. Dr. Thomas, Captain Newman was afraid we’d get ourselves in trouble so he’s making us have guards around us. My son and the chief insisted on it.”

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“Ok here is where we stand. As you can tell Steve has trouble with his speech but I can already tell that the Median Nerve Stimulator has helped quite a bit in that area. With speech therapy and hard work Steve should be talking just like before in no time. His hands and legs are weak but I believe with hard work in that area too Steve will recover but it may take longer before your son is able to walk again.”

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“Thank you Doctor Thompson I’m sure we’ll have no trouble getting Steve to work hard.”

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“Yes Steve really worked hard several years ago to learn to walk again when his dad was accused of murder.”

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“I read about the case doctors. I’m glad it worked out.”

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“I am too. I just wish Steve didn’t have to go through this again.” Mark replied.

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“Amanda and I will be with both of you Mark. We’ll all face whatever happens together.”

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“Thanks Jesse it’s nice to have friends like you and Amanda.”

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“Doctors I’ll schedule a speech therapist, occupational therapist, and physical therapist to work with your son.”

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“Thank you again Doctor.”

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Mark and Jesse were headed back to Steve’s hospital room when Captain Newman came. “Doctors I need to talk to Lt. Sloan if you think he’s up to it.”

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“Captain Newman you heard Steve try to say ‘dad’ earlier. I’m afraid my son isn’t up to communicating right now.”

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“Dr. Sloan when will he be able to it’s important. Steve’s testimony is vital to the case.”

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“Captain Newman I haven’t had time to question him but lots of times when there is a brain injury such as coma there is amnesia that follows. Now we know from the phrase ‘da’ that he does remember me so he obviously doesn’t have complete amnesia but whether he remembers anything before he got hurt is unclear. Let the speech therapist and I work with Steve and I will see if he does remember anything.”

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“Ok Mark but let me know as soon as possible.”

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“I will Captain.”

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After several hours Steve woke up and was fed breakfast since he didn’t have full use of his hands.

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“I ha’ this.” Steve said frustrated at having to have a nurse feed him his breakfast.

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“I know you do Steve but don’t worry. This is only temporary the chances of you fully recovering is excellent.”

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Just then the speech therapist came in to work with Steve. The therapist worked for almost two hours with Steve. When she was done Steve was talking better but he still had trouble with forming a few sounds like the letter ‘r’ and blending sounds like ‘ch’ and ‘sh’. He was told that those were hard and not to worry she would come back again tomorrow for another lesson.

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“Steve you worked very hard I’m proud of you. Your occupational therapist is coming shortly to work with you but I was wondering if you could answer some questions the best you can son. It’s important that I check to see if there is any damage to your memory.”

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“Okay.”

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“Steve what is the last thing you remember before you woke up?”

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Steve thought a few minutes and then thought carefully of how to form the words correctly. “I was giving Captain Newman evidence that proves Henry Brown is guilty of murder.”

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“Do you remember anything after that?”

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Steve contemplated for a few minutes “no Dad is it important?”

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“Steve don’t worry if you can’t remember anything after that there’s nothing to concern yourself with just work hard to get back to full function.”

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“Dad will my memory come back?”

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“Steve son I told you not to worry. I believe what you have is Retrograde amnesia it usually involves the minutes, sometimes the hours and more rarely days preceding brain damage and is a common consequence of mild to moderate head injury.”

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“But will my memory return?” It was obvious Steve was worried that he was missing a chunk of his memory. How much he was missing Steve had no idea.

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“Steve it’s too soon to tell. Don’t worry about this son please. You need to work with your occupational therapist and after lunch your physical therapist will be in to see you. Oh and son thanks for the guards that the Captain ordered around me, Jesse and Amanda.”

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Steve smiled. Then Mark smiled in return. Just then Steve’s occupational therapist showed up. “Steve I’ll be back later. I’ll let you work with your therapist for a while I need to talk to your captain he’s been concerned about you.”

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“Tell him I appreciate it.”

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“I will Steve.”

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Steve’s therapist had Steve color in a coloring book and playing with play dough. Steve had no idea what these were for but he was told these crafts would help him get full use of his hands. Steve thought it was childish when he was told to draw in a coloring book but he was upset when he kept going out of the lines. Steve’s therapist was patient with him and told him it was only the first day and not to be upset.

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While Steve was meeting with his therapist Mark met with Captain Newman.

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“Captain Newman I talked to Steve. He appreciates your concern. Also I had a talk with him about what he remembers. I’m afraid Captain that Steve has retrograde amnesia.”

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“What exactly is that Doctor?”

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“Retrograde amnesia is a form of amnesia resulting from brain injury in which the individual loses memories for the time period just prior to the injury. This time period may stretch from a few minutes to several years, and typically it is worst for the event which occurred just before the injury. This is what’s happened to Steve. The last thing he remembers doing before his injury is giving you evidence that proves Henry Brown is guilty of murder.”

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“So he doesn’t remember the beating.”

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“That’s right Captain. Steve can’t remember Henry Brown beating him until he was almost dead.”

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“Will he ever remember?”

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“Captain a common assumption for patients with retrograde amnesia is that there memories are not lost but just repressed or blocked.”

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“Doctor Sloan you’re not answering my question. Will the Lieutenant ever recall everything that happened?”

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“I don’t have an answer for you Captain. I’m sorry. Steve may remember in a day or so or even a month, …or it’s entirely possible that he will never remember.”

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After lunch Steve worked with his physical therapist Robert Timmens whom he had worked with before after he had a car accident. He was told that getting the full use of his legs would take a while but to not give up. It was important that he keep trying.

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For several days this was Steve’s routine. He would meet with the speech therapist and occupational therapist after breakfast and then after lunch meet with his physical therapist. After dinner his dad or Jesse would take Steve to the exercise room where he could lift weights to gain strength in his arms and legs.

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Steve’s speech was the first skill that Steve was able to master again. The speech therapist agreed with Dr. Thompson that using the Median Nerve Stimulator had helped tremendously in Steve gaining full use of his speech and language skills.

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Steve still worked with his occupational therapist and physical therapist. He was able to color in the coloring books and not go out of the line too often. He was also able to build shapes out of play dough when told to make a snake or snow man or something else simple. He also worked on his penmanship. He still didn’t have enough strength in his arms or legs to even begin to use the platform to practice walking.

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After weeks of this Steve had graduated from occupational therapy. His penmanship had improved so much that he was now writing in cursive. Steve was delighted that he could now feed himself. He was also happy to know that he could choose to eat anything he wanted. He knew exactly what he was going to have for breakfast the following day. An extra helping of scrambled eggs.

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While the nurse gave Steve his breakfast he asked the nurse to tell Dr. Travis he’d like to see him. Jesse comes into Steve’s room and says “Hi Steve the nurse told me you wanted to see me?” Steve then hits Jesse with eggs. “Hey Steve I thought you gained control of your hands!”

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“I did Jess. I hit you didn’t I?”

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“You mean you did this on purpose?” Jesse looks at himself he has scrambled eggs on his clothes. “Why?”

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“Why?” Steve asked amazed. “Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall, Humpty Dumpty had a great fall…? Mary Had A Little Lamb whose fleece was white as snow…. Jesse you bored me every time it was your turn to talk.”

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“Hey if you wanted me to stop all you had to do was wake up.”

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“Well I wanted to find out how many of those you knew.”

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“Well it was either nursery rhymes or fairy tales, and I just couldn’t tell Sleeping Beauty to you.”

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A few weeks later Robert Timmens asked to have a word with Mark. “Dr. Sloan I’m worried about Steve he seems restless. I think he could use some time out of the hospital.”

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“But he can’t function by himself yet. He can control his hands but his arms and legs are still too weak.”

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“Yes I know that but I also believe he needs some time out of the hospital. He’s been cooped up here for months. You know I think your son might actually be tired of hospital food.”

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“Well for Steve to be tired of hospital food that must be saying something but I still don’t like the idea of Steve being alone yet.”

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“Dr. Sloan I have an idea I have this friend Audrey Norton she works with dogs and trains them to help the handicapped to be able to function as normally as possible. I could give her a call and ask if we could use one of her dogs to help Steve until he’s better.”

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“That’s an excellent idea. Please call her as soon as possible. I’m supposed to meet with Captain Newman about the case against Mr. Brown.”

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Mark goes into the doctors’ lounge where Captain Newman is waiting. Mark’s guards following him.

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“Captain Newman you wanted to see me?”

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“Yes I did Mark I wanted to tell you where we stand. I’m afraid the judge won’t let Steve testify.”

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“What do you mean the judge won’t let Steve testify.”

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“I’m sorry Mark the judge agrees with the Defense Lawyer. If Steve can’t remember what happened before he was in a coma there’s no telling what else he is fuzzy about.”

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“But people with his type of injury often block out the events that occurred before the brain injury. It’s the body’s way of protection. But that doesn’t mean he can’t testify to what he does remember. ”

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“Mark I know that. I wish I could have better news. As it stands Henry Brown is a free man and he will remain a free man.”

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“Not if I can help it.”

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“Mark your two guards are still on you for a very good reason.”

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“Don’t worry I just need to make a few phone calls. I can’t get hurt making a few phone calls can I?”

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“I hope not or it’s my hide.”

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Mark made a few phone calls and then told his plan to Captain Newman. He agreed it was far-fetched but that it just might work.

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-----

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Mark went to visit Steve to see how he was doing and then he had another talk with his physical therapist. The therapist had it all arranged with his friend Audrey. All Mark had to do was to go down to the animal shelter where Audrey worked.

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“Hello I’m looking for a Miss Audrey Norton.”

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A woman comes out “Hello Dr. Sloan it’s Mrs. Norton. But Audrey will do. I was told about your son. I think it’s an excellent idea. I’ve seen lots of success with the handicapped and the dogs. I believe that all people need someone to care about and be responsible for. The handicapped and the dogs work together as a team often a special bond is developed by the two of them.”

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“That sounds great Audrey. My son is a very caring person. Is there a dog you would recommend?”

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“Just a minute Dr. Sloan.”

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“Please call me Mark.”

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“Ok Mark I’ll be right back.”

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Audrey leaves and comes out a few minutes later with a Labrador with a harness on. “Mark this is Peter. He’s been specially trained to work with people like your son’s handicap. The harness on him lets him know when he’s working. When it’s off he’s a regular dog.”

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“Thank you so much Audrey.”

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“You’re welcome Mark. I’m sure your son and Peter will get along quite well.”

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-----

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Mark put Peter in his car and then looked at his watch. It was almost time for the meeting. He called Captain Newman on his cell phone to make sure everything was set up. The captain released the guards around Mark telling him that if things go wrong with his plan and he ends up a meter maid to make sure Mark pays with traffic fines for the rest of his life.

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Mark goes to the store and leaves Peter in the car. Making sure the window is rolled down a few inches so Peter won’t get hot. He also parks in the shade for more protection. Mark comes out a few minutes later with the things he needs in order for his plan to work.

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Mark checks his watch again. He had to hurry if he wanted to get there on time.

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-----

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Mark and Mr. Brown meet at a public park.

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“Thank you for meeting me here.”

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“I was curious. You said ‘you had evidence that would corroborate what your son found out and put me away ’.”

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“That’s right. Oh this friend of mine is a special needs dog. He helps people who have a disability to be able to function like everybody else as much as possible.”

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“That’s nice Mark. But what does that have to do with the evidence you claim you have.”

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“Nothing really I just wanted to talk to you. Why did you take advantage of my nature and worm your way into my friendship?”

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“Because Dr. Sloan I read up on you I knew you like to help solve your son’s cases and I knew if I could get you on my side I’d be at an advantage.”

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“And the person you killed?”

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“Dr. Sloan I wouldn’t be saying any of this if there were people around us but you can’t testify. You’re a distraught parent no one would believe you.”

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“I guess you’re right about that.”

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“So since I know you can’t do anything I’ll tell you and that way you have to live with the fact that there is nothing you can do. The guy I killed didn’t even know it was happening until it was too late. I enjoyed every minute watching him suffer. As for your son. I enjoyed that immensely also. I would have beaten your son to death for all the trouble he was causing me but I heard the sirens coming and I had to leave. And there’s nothing you can do Dr. Sloan.”

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“Don’t be so sure about that. Captain Newman you can come out now!” Mark shouted.

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Captain Newman and several policemen came out behind trees which were several yards away. Mark takes a little tape recorder from out of the dog’s backpack. “I knew you’d love to rub my nose in it Mr. Brown. I also knew you wouldn’t talk if there was someone else with me. But I figured you wouldn’t worry if I brought a dog with me. After all dogs can’t talk can they?”

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“You tricked me!”

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“Yes I did. Just like you tricked me.”

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-----

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Now that Henry Brown was safely locked up with enough evidence to nail him without Steve’s testimony the chief saw no reason to continue the guards on Mark, Jesse, or Amanda.

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Mark went back to Community General with Peter and stopped in Steve’s room.

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“Who’s your friend Dad and where are your guards?”

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“It’s all over Steve. Henry is in jail and they have enough evidence for a conviction without your testimony. The chief decided to give the go ahead and release the guards on us. Now for your other question this is Peter. He’s for people who have a physical handicap like you do right now son. He’s going to help you improve. Also I was talking to your therapist and he and I think you could do with some time out of the hospital. Peter is going to help you so you can be on your own sometimes.”

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“Dad that’s great I’m getting so tired of this place.. No offense Dad.”

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“Son don’t worry I know how you must feel.”

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-----

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Having worked with his friend Audrey before, Robert was able to teach Steve and Peter to work together. Soon Steve and Peter were working as a team.

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Mark, Jesse, and Robert Timmens all felt that Steve and Peter were ready to work together at home so Steve could get a much needed break. He still had to go into the hospital and work out. His Dad, Jesse, and Amanda took turns driving Steve to his appointment and driving him home. Jesse helped with Mark’s shift as much as possible so Mark could spend time at home also helping Steve.

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Several days had past since Steve was released from the hospital for a short time just to give Steve a much needed break from the hospital. Mark took care of Steve and helped him do things Peter couldn’t like run errands for him.

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Steve asked Mark to go to the store and buy some things for him and have them gift wrapped in one box. Mark took a look at the list and knew he was going to have to control his laughter the next time he saw Jesse.

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Mark bought the presents remembering to have them gift wrapped in one box and brought them home. “Thanks Dad. You know what I’m up to don’t you?”

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“Yes Steve I figured it out as soon as I saw your list. I just hope I can keep a straight face when I see Jesse.”

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“Dad Please don’t give anything away.”

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“I’ll do my best son.”

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Mark calls Jesse and tells him he’s been called to an emergency and asks Jesse to come right away because he hadn’t had time to get Steve something to eat and Peter can’t cook.

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Jesse comes over and Mark makes a hasty exit then gets in his car drives out of sight and bursts out laughing.

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“Steve is there anything specific you’d like me to cook for you?”

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“Not now Jesse.. Jesse I have a present for you for all you did for me while I was in a coma. Here boy he says to his dog Peter. Steve then puts the present in the dog’s backpack and says take it to Jesse Peter. ”

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“Good boy Peter Jesse says as he removes the present. Steve it’s really not necessary.”

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“Oh Jess but it is...it is.”

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Jesse opens it and the box contains books. Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, Mother Goose and Nursery Rhymes. “I wanted to get you tapes of Sleeping Beauty and Cinderella and a few others but they are no longer available and they cost an arm and a leg to buy online.” Steve said smiling with enjoyment at seeing his friend’s face.

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Captain Newman visited with Steve and let him know that Henry Brown had decided to plea bargain to escape a very possible Murder One charge. Steve was sorry that he couldn’t remember what happened before he went into a coma but he was glad that now it didn’t matter. Mr. Brown would spend time in jail, and his dad and friends were safe.

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Later that evening Steve and Mark were talking about Steve’s amnesia. “Dad will I ever remember what happened before I went into a coma?”

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“It’s hard to say Steve. You might in time. Steve what really bothers you the most about missing that awful memory?”

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“That’s just it Dad. A missing memory. A broken link of a chain of who I am.”

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“Steve it’s possible that if you quit worrying about it your memory could come back. If it doesn’t it’s nothing to worry about but if it would help I’ll see if I can get the tape I used to record Henry’s confession maybe hearing him describe what he did to you and why would help.”

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“Thanks Dad.”

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Mark was able to get the tape and Steve listened to it. He now knew the chunk in his life that he was missing. He could now let it go. If he ever remembered that was fine if not, then that was fine also.”

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-----

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Steve had been working at the hospital for weeks for hours at a time with the Physical therapist.

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Robert Timmens watched Steve. He was very worried. He had worked with Steve before when he had his car accident and he knew the effort that his patient had put in then to be able to walk again. But this time it was as if his patient was holding back some how afraid to improve. Why he had no idea.

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“Dr. Sloan we need to discuss your son’s progress.”

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“Is something wrong?”

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“Yes I’m afraid your son isn’t trying his hardest to learn how to walk. I can tell he’s trying but he’s holding back as if he’s afraid to fully get back to the way he was before his coma and that has me worried.”

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“You think I should talk to my son and see what the matter is?”

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“I think that is an excellent idea Dr. Sloan but try not to be too harsh on him. Your son has been through a lot.”

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“Nobody knows that more than me. Don’t worry I’ll be gentle.”

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Mark goes home and sees Steve petting Peter and an idea comes to him. “Hi Steve.” “Hi Dad how was work.” “It was fine Steve… you really like Peter don’t you Steve?” “Dad he’s just here until I get better.” “..Steve excuse me I just realized there’s an important meeting I’m late for. Will you be alright if I leave you alone some more?” “Yes Dad I will. I’ve got Peter here to keep me company. Steve said as he rubbed Peter’s fur.

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Mark drove down to the place where he got the dog from. “Audrey he said to the woman that recommended Peter to him, I have a huge favor to ask…”

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Mark came back home. “Hi son!” “Hi Dad how was your meeting?” “It went great Steve.” “..Steve I talked to Audrey and she has a big favor to ask of you. Peter comes from an abused past. You are the first owner he’s had that has shown him any kindness. Audrey is afraid that if Peter goes back he won’t trust again. She was wondering if you wouldn’t mind keeping Peter?” Steve got a big smile on his face. “You hear that Peter? I’m going to work really hard to be able to walk again and then run and you and I can run together on the beach every day before I go to work.” Steve said as he gave Peter a hug.

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Mark smiled. Because of excellent doctors, and friends, and hard work on Steve’s part, and a very special dog his son was going to completely recover.

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The End

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Notes by Author: While doing research on coma and what happens when someone is in a coma I discovered there were some contradictions in the different sites with experts that I read online in dealing with this. I began to think that there is so much we don’t know about the human brain. So I had Dr. Thompson talk about autism which is near and dear to my heart.

I had a dog help with Steve’s rehabilitation after watching a show my oldest daughter likes to watch and they were showing how animals help with the handicapped.

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