Chapter 5
The
passion of old is a children's quick game. Now it's the sound of the thunder
and feel of the flames.
*Fire of the Newly Arrived ~Rosanne Cash
Wells’ Ranch ~9:45 p.m.
“Hello! Where is everyone?”
The place was quiet as JD placed his keys and cell on the entry table. He wandered toward the twins' room, and peeked inside; disappointed that they were asleep. He checked his watch and sighed, it was late. Closing the door in silence, JD went into his own bedroom, crossed the room, unclipped his holster, and removed his service weapon, along with the second gun he had strapped to his ankle. He opened the safe, placed them inside, closed the door, and spun the combination lock. Glancing around the room, he yawned and stretched before he walked toward the crib.
“Hello there, baby boy,” he whispered, smiling down at his sleeping son. The girls were the light of his life, but this little one fulfilled him in a way he did not believe was possible. With a feather light touch, he trailed a finger over the infant’s cheek and bent down to kiss his forehead.
He had come so close to losing Jarrod John Bucklin Dunne, and his mama. He recalled the car accident that trapped him and Casey for hours, her early labor coming on, and then having to deliver little JJ himself. Lord, he was so small when he made his appearance. Finally rescued, they made a mad rush to the hospital. Casey hemorrhaged, needing emergency surgery while they took his son to NICU, where he stayed for weeks.
A noise from the back of the house drew his attention. Without making a sound, he exited the bedroom, and moved down the hall to the kitchen, smiling as he caught sight of Casey chopping vegetables at the counter.
“Hey babe, sorry I'm later than I promised, work's been insane today.” Embracing her from behind, he nuzzled at her neck while he reached around her to caress her breasts.
She let out a strangled sound, paled and stopped cutting. “W…what are you doing here?”
Releasing her immediately, he raised his hands, moving a short distance away from her. “Sorry, I didn't mean to startle you,” he laughed, “but, unless you're trying to tell me something, I live here.” She resumed chopping vegetables, adding them to the large pile she had accumulated. When she did not respond to his attempt at humor, he added, “What was dinner? I'm starving and I’ll take leftovers.”
She remained silent.
Glancing over at her, he tilted his head. “Aww babe, things are a little off right now, but we made progress last night. Can we just put everything else aside for tonight…please?”
The next few seconds became a blur. Casey tightened her grip on the large knife in her hand, glared at JD with a burning hatred in her eyes and flew at him, screaming like a wild banshee. “I warned you! Get out of our house…Get out!”
JD had no time to react to her screams before a sharp blow to his side took his breath, his knees went weak, and blood began to pour from a gaping wound. Casey slashed at him again; another forceful blow to his abdomen dropped him to the floor, his legs convulsed while pain surged through him. He looked up at his wife to see the blade in her hand dripping with his blood and he fought through his rapid, shallow breathing to whisper her name.
“C…Casey…?”
Everything moved in slow motion and a haze settled over his vision. She moved closer and growled in his face, “You won't hurt us again…you hear me? Never again!”
Shaking violently, JD curled in on himself as his hand sought out the wound. Before he could do anything to stop the blood flow, he passed out.
~~~7~~~
Nettie heard what sounded like Casey screaming. She threw her book aside and left her bed in a rush. Putting on her robe, she made her way to the kitchen expecting to find Casey and JD fighting again. Instead, her niece stood silently at the counter staring at something on the floor. Nettie followed Casey's line of vision and gasped, her hand going to her mouth as her heart and stomach lurched. Lying in a pool of his own blood was JD.
“Oh dear God!”
Grabbing several dishtowels, the older women dropped to the floor, applying pressure to his wounds. She pushed back sweat-soaked hair from his slack face, and checked his neck for a pulse. Relief flooded over her when she found one.
“Casey…what happened?” She demanded, desperate to control her fear.
She looked up when she did not get a response “Are you injured too? Talk to me child!” Silence met her demands.
After jamming the towels between JD's wound and the floor, Nettie rose to grab the kitchen phone on the countertop, dialing 9-1-1 and relaying her distress call. She wanted to call Chris, but JD's need was too urgent. Instead she sought out more towels and went back to help him.
“Casey…answer me, what happened?” Nettie was close to frantic. JD was unconscious and bleeding. Casey simply stood there, staring and unresponsive… blood splatters covered her. Was she hurt? Was there someone else still in the house? Her blood raced as now she feared for the children. Then she saw it, just before it clattered to the floor from Casey's now lax fingers…the bloody knife. Vaguely aware of her movements, she looked down at her aunt with no recognition or emotion in her eyes.
Realization began to sink in and with her fear mounting for JD and Casey, Nettie whispered, “Sweet Jesus, no.”
Larabee 7
When the phone rang at this time of night, Walter expected bad news. He listened intently, acknowledged the message, and replaced the receiver before he rolled out of bed.
Fully awake now, Max asked, “What is it?”
“Got a call from the gate, an ambulance passed runnin’ full lights and siren headed to the Wells’ property.”
Max bolted upright, “You go, I'll call Chris.”
~~~7~~~
The children were asleep and Chris was ready for bed, after talking with Cait for the past hour. When the phone rang shortly after he hung it up, he silently cursed the intrusion and said a silent prayer that it was not work related.
“Larabee,” he growled into the phone. “Max… What…? Okay, call Vin and Buck. Tell them to meet me at JD's. There’s no point in worrying anyone else until we’re certain about what's happened. Thanks.” Within a few minutes, he dressed, informed Dottie he was leaving, and was out of the door, on his way to the Wells’ ranch.
Wilmington Home
Inez stood by the kitchen door watching her husband. Buck had papers spread out over the table and was deep in thought. “You have eight weeks to complete your plans, dear. You don’t have to finish tonight.”
“Eight weeks is no time at all. I want this rodeo to be the best event these kids have ever seen.” Buck leaned back in his chair. “Besides, Chris put me in charge and I do not plan to let him or the kids down.”
She sat down next to him. “Is it coming together like you want?”
“It will. Vin and Chris are taking care of the stock. Ezra and Nathan are coordinating with the vendors and Josiah is organizing the youth group on the west end. JD‘s taken on the advertising and Matt has spread the word to other ranches in the area. We’ll have more help and contestants than we know what to do with, plus make a ton of money for Reins, and the youth center.”
“Those kids got to you didn’t they?’” She already knew the answer, but loved to watch her husband’s eyes light up when he talked about ‘his’ kids at the new youth center.
“Yeah, they did. I….” The ring of the phone stopped him. “I got it.” Buck pushed away from the table and grabbed the receiver. “Wilmington here… it’s your quarter.” He listened for a moment, mumbled a reply, and slammed down the phone. “An ambulance was called to the Wells’ place. I’m going over to meet Chris.”
Inez followed him to the door. “Call me when you…”
“I will, babe, take care of our babies.” He leaned down, kissed her, and then disappeared into the night.
Tanner Home
“The boys are down for the count.” Vin walked onto the porch and sat next to his wife. “I love our kids, but it’s nice when they all decide to sleep at the same time.”
Kelli handed him a glass of tea. “I’ve been thinkin’ about our planned trip to Texas. Fifteen hundred miles, in a truck with four kids… you reckon we’ll survive?”
“I’m seriously considerin’ we should take Wyatt up on his offer. He said he could arrange a private flight to San Antonio and have motor home waiting on us, for the last leg of the trip. Less wear and tear on the nerves,” Vin laughed as he reached to answer the portable phone. “Tanner…right….we’ll be ready when you get here. Thanks.”
Alarmed by the changed expression that came over him, Kelli asked, “Vin?”
“Unknown trouble at JD’s. Max and Walter are on their way over to sit with the kids.”
They went inside, and changed clothes quickly. Kelli refrained from commenting when Vin passed her gun to her from the safe as he retrieved his. He may not know what the trouble was, but Vin Tanner firmly believed in preparing for anything.
Wells’ Ranch
Chris swallowed hard at the sight of the ambulance parked outside the Dunne’s home. His first fear was for Nettie, she was a strong woman, but age had been sneaking up on her and her health was foremost in his mind. He switched off his engine, hurried out of the truck, and in through the door within moments.
Feeling a split second of relief when he saw Nettie, his eyes caught sight of the crimson splatters on Casey’s blouse, and the paramedic working earnestly on JD in the kitchen. The unmistakable coppery smell of blood assaulted his senses. His mouth went dry and he licked his lips. “What the hell's going on?”
Nettie looked up at him; her expression leaving no room for misunderstandings…this was not the time for explanations. He bypassed the two women, rushed into the kitchen, and crouched down beside his injured brother. He stroked JD's head while trying to comprehend the scene before him. Chris voiced his question to the paramedics.
“How bad?”
One of them shook his head. “Not sure, we need to get him to hospital, he's lost a copious amount of blood, and his stats are falling.”
“JD?” Buck's voice cut through the tension when he rushed into the room and joined Larabee on the floor.
When Vin entered with Kelli, Chris stood to meet them. He spoke first to his daughter, “Nettie needs help.” Once she left the room, his worried gaze settled on Tanner.
“I’m going to the hospital. I need you to secure the area as a crime scene. Are you up to taking over here?”
Vin glanced at Nettie, her tear filled eyes and protective hold on Casey, spoke volumes. “Don’t reckon I have much choice do I?”
Chris scanned the room. “I need to know what happened ASAP and Buck’s in no condition to help…’
“Do what you have to…I... we’ll handle it.*
Chris nodded; Buck’s distraught voice drew his attention.
“Kid…can ya hear me? Come on, son…stay with me…you're gonna be fine.” Buck stroked JD's hair as he spoke, trying desperately to ignore the blood surrounding his younger brother.
A paramedic touched the big man's shoulder. “We have to go.”
Casey made no move to leave the safety of her aunt's embrace. With a nod from Chris, Buck rose to accompany the paramedics, and in seconds, they were on their way to the hospital.
At a loss for the right words to say, Chris knelt down in front of Nettie. “You realize we have to go over what happened here.”
Feeling years older and suddenly very tired, Nettie sighed. In a voice barely above a whisper she said, “I know.” She tightened her hold on Casey.
“I’m going to the hospital.” Chris looked at Vin who was staring at Nettie. “Vin will stay here. He’s in charge of the investigation.” He patted her hand. “I’ll call as soon as I know about JD.”
She nodded through tear-filled eyes.
~~~7~~~
The ride to the hospital seemed to take forever, but it was actually less than twenty minutes. Buck clung to JD's cold hand, as if willing his energy into him. The young agent was ashen, even his lips, causing his damp, dark hair to stand out as it clung to his face. Buck instinctively brushed the hair back.
“What happened to you, boy? Who did this?” A knowing glance from the paramedic in attendance met his whispered words, but Buck’s focus on JD was so intense, he missed it. Just as the driver announced their arrival, the paramedic in back leapt forward as an alarm sounded. All Buck could do was sit and watch as the ambulance lurched to a halt and the doors flew open. The paramedic with them straddled JD's torso and began pumping on his chest.
“He’s crashing, code Blue… Code Blue!
The team now at the ambulance doors pulled the gurney out and rolled it quickly toward the ER while the medic continued pumping. Unable to move for shock, Buck sat and stared after them, not stirring until a nurse stepped into the ambulance and, speaking softly, guided him to where they had taken JD.
Buck was relieved when Chris walked into the waiting room a few minutes later. He stopped pacing and approached him.
“How is he?” Chris asked.
Buck stopped in front of him. Chris instantly noted the man's trembling features.
“He…he died, Chris…right in front of me…just…just gave up.”
Larabee grabbed Buck's arms, fear gripping his heart. “What are you saying?”
Buck released a soft sob. “They got him back…but…” he looked tearfully at the man he had known all his adult life. …”why would JD just give up like that? He's not a quitter Chris…What the hell happened that would make him stop fighting?”
Larabee swallowed hard, not wanting to give voice to the ugliness of what he feared was the truth. “We'll talk later…but for now, let's just concentrate on JD, okay? Ezra and Nathan are on their way. Josiah's gone to Nettie's to help Vin and Kelli.”
Buck frowned as something dawned on him. “Where's Casey? Why isn't she with you? Is she on her way? Oh God, is she hurt too? What about the babies!”
Chris squeezed the brunet's arms. “Later…okay? Everything’s in hand. Once we have some news, we'll talk, I promise. JD *is* strong, Buck, he won't give up on us... Damnit man, we brought him this far…we're not letting go of him yet.”
With a nod from Buck, Chris guided him to the chairs and they sat down. Chris closed his eyes, *God, what a fucking mess.*
Chapter 6
Our hold on sanity is sometimes fragile in the best of times, but under surreal circumstances, it hangs entirely on a thread of faith.
Vin’s trained eyes read the scene, while his heart refused to believe the obvious. Over the years, he had learned to expect the unexpected in law enforcement and never make assumptions, but...this was beyond understanding. This type of thing happened to other people, not his family. Knowing he needed to get beyond the emotions raging inside him, he called on the self- discipline he became skilled at during his time with in the Rangers, and did what he had to do. He knelt down and bagged the bloody knife for evidence.
Kelli stood inside the doorway, her mind refused to register the evidence in front of her. She spoke quietly, but her voice reached her husband’s ear, “Vin?”
She only said his name, but he heard her unasked questions. The same ones he was asking himself. Stepping around the blood, he pulled off his gloves, walked over to her, and drew her into his arms, resting his chin on her head. “I don’t have any answers, baby. I only know we’ve got a job to do, whether we want to or not.”
“So many lives are goin’ to be affected…” Hugging him tighter, she shivered. “God, how do we…?”
“We do what we’re trained to do,” he kissed the top of her head. “Forensics will be here any minute, along with Josiah. We need to question Nettie and Casey. Are you up to doin’ it?”
Kelli nodded. “You’ll probably get more from Nettie. I’ll stay with Casey while you talk to her.” She raised her head and recognized the look of torment in his eyes. “We’ll do what’s necessary and later…we’ll find a way together to move on.”
“Casey is calm now, but don’t let your guard down. If she did this, she could come at you, too,” he warned her.
“I’ll be fine, Captain Tanner.” Kelli stepped back and tried to sound professional. “You question the witness, and I’ll contain the suspect.”
Vin swallowed the lump in his throat. He understood that Kelli was trying to help him gain his perspective and it worked. “I love you, Texas,” he whispered before he entered the living room.
Nettie raised her eyes when Vin walked in. As much as she wished to hold onto this moment in time, she knew better. Altered by the events, which had transpired in the kitchen earlier, life would never be the same for her family and God help them; there would be no turning back.
“Captain Tanner,” Nettie deliberately used his title. “Perhaps we can talk in the dining room?”
“Yes ma’am,” Vin offered his hand to assist her. “Agent Coulter will sit with Casey.”
Casey reacted by clinging to her aunt. “Don’t leave me. They took JD… They handcuffed him and dragged him out...,”she began to ramble and as her words trailed off, they made less and less sense.
Kelli sat down next to her and wrapped her arm around Casey’s shoulder. “We’ll find JD for you. Maybe Nettie can help Vin look for him, okay?”
The young woman barely nodded, but did release her hold on her aunt.
Taking her arm, Vin walked with Nettie into the dining room, and pulled out a chair for her. “I’m sorry to put you through this. Can I get you anythin’ before we start? “
Placing her hand on his, she shook her head. “No call to apologize, Son. Let’s just get this over with. You have questions that need answers. Now sit down and do your job.”
Vin heard the forensic team, led by Greg Ramsey, arrive, and the baritone of Josiah’s voice as they came into the house. He knew Kelli would direct them to the kitchen. Once Josiah got a handle on the situation, he would be able to give them an idea of how to proceed with Casey.
Tanner sat down and sighed. “Nettie, I need you to tell me everythin’ you remember about what happened here tonight.”
Vin listened to the whole story and witnessed the toll answering took on Nettie. “I understand how difficult this is for you, and I wish I could make this all go away, but I can’t,” he told her. “You realize Casey will be arrested.”
“Yes,” Nettie whispered, “but she needs help, Vin. Who should I call?” Her voice trembled.
Vin loved this old woman, and owed her more than he could ever repay. His heart ached to see the anguish in Nettie’s eyes. Not only was the niece, who she had loved and cared for like a daughter since she was five-years-old, in serious trouble, the man she called son was gravely injured and lying in the hospital. “She’s gonna need an attorney. I’ll make a couple of calls and find one you can talk to about helpin’. You want me to call anyone else?”
“Caitlyn,” she nodded, “she‘s close to Casey, and I’m sure she’ll be able to help me sort some of this out.”
“Okay,” he said. Standing up, he squeezed her shoulder. “I’ll call her, but I want you to stay in here ‘til she arrives. No need for you to be in the middle of what needs to be done.”
Josiah waited for Vin to finish with Nettie, and he tilted his head toward the kitchen to indicate that Tanner should follow him. They moved away from the door and the forensics people to talk in lowered voices.
“We hear anythin’ from the hospital?” Vin asked.
“Not yet,” Josiah answered, as anxious as Vin to find out about JD’s condition. “Tell me what you found out.”
Vin nodded and began, “Nettie didn’t witness what happened, but what she said matches with the evidence we’ve seen. She said once the kids were down, Casey went into the kitchen to cut vegetables for a salad, but she thought after she finished, Casey went to her room to be with JJ.” He sighed and pointed to the counter. “That was at eight o’clock. JD did not arrive home until almost ten. Judgin’ by the amount of vegetables piled up, I reckon Casey kept cuttin’ for close to two hours. JD checks on the kids, comes in here and…for whatever reason, Casey flipped out and attacked him. Nettie heard Casey screamin’, ran in here, found him on the floor, and Casey was standin’ there with the knife in her hand.”
Sanchez agreed, “It fits with my read of the situation and after observing her with Kelli I believe she’s suffered some kind of psychotic break. We’re not going to get anything out of her that will make sense of this.”
“We have to arrest her, but maybe her lawyer can arrange for her to be held in a hospital instead of the jail.” Vin suggested. “I told Nettie I’d find her an attorney, and she asked me to call Caitlyn.”
“We should call Barbara too. Nettie will have her hands full with Casey. With JD in the hospital and Casey under arrest, it won’t take long for CPS to start asking questions about the kids.” Josiah suggested. “We need to keep them together, if possible.” He placed his hand on Vin’s shoulder. “I’ll call Caitlyn and Barbara, you find Nettie a lawyer, and then…We’d best let Chris know what happened before we take her in.”
Josiah took only a few minutes to set Caitlyn and Barbara into action; they were both on their way. Vin called Douglas Banks, who had represented JD when Ice had him arrested, and was the best criminal attorney Vin knew. Banks agreed to meet them at the Federal building where they would be taking Casey. JD was her husband, but when she assaulted him, she also assaulted a Federal Law Enforcement Officer. Anywhere in the country, that was automatically a capital offense, with or without the victim’s cooperation. If JD died, the charge would be capital murder.
Josiah knew Vin had to be the one who called Chris. “I’ll tell Nettie about Douglas Banks, and Barbara said she would take care of the children. You, my friend, need to call Chris before we officially arrest Casey.”
“Yeah,” Vin said softly. He stared at his cell phone for a long while, before he finally punched in Chris’s number. He reckoned confirming Chris’s fear was going to be one of the hardest phone calls he would ever make.
~~~7~~~
Kelli handed Greg a plastic evidence bag, which contained Casey’s blood splattered clothes. It had been easy to get the young woman to change, and hand them over to her. “Tell Vin, we’ll be on the front porch.” Casey was now docile and oblivious to what was going on around her, she allowed the redhead to help her on with a coat, and lead her outside. Kelli wanted to get her out of the house and away from Nettie and the children while she was being submissive.
When Captain Tanner gave the word, Agent Coulter would read the young woman her rights, and tell her she was under arrest. She was determined to take on as much of the dirty part of this investigation as possible. Kelli hoped that with her being the arresting officer it would be her everyone threw their arrows at, and perhaps somehow lessen Vin’s guilty feelings about the decisions MCAT’s Captain Tanner had to make.
After talking to Chris, Vin felt worse than before. Yes, Captain Tanner was the investigating office in charge, and he was doing his damn job, but this was family, and no matter what he did, there was bound to be hard feelings down the line.
Barbara approached him. “Vin, I will be responsible for the Dunne children. I‘ve already put in a call to a judge who is a friend of mine, and I hope to fend off any ugly battles with Child Protective Services. Inez is on stand by to baby-sit, if needed. She already has the Jackson children and Mallory is dropping her kids off with her and then coming here to help me. Cait is in with Nettie, and is prepared to drive her to wherever you’re taking Casey.”
The Wild Bunch women were a force to reckon with. Vin was always amazed when the women in this family mobilized into action. They did what they had to without complaint, and attempted to ease the path for their husbands without questions or judgments. He saddened for a moment when his thoughts turned to Casey, not so long ago she was one of them... Now, she was heading to jail, and JD was clinging to life. The grief that swept over him for their loss was almost too much to bear. He sobered and straightened in an attempt to shake off his foreboding thoughts.
“Thanks Barb, appreciate it. This is a crime scene however, so you need to find a place for Nettie and the kids to stay until we can release it.”
Her nod told him she understood. “I’ll take care of them. You do your work and leave the rest to us.”
“Captain Tanner.” Greg stopped him on his way back to Nettie. “We are finished with the kitchen, but we will need to process the rest of the house. I’m sending what we have to the lab, but I’ve logged in the evidence personally.”
Vin nodded. “Missus Standish is making arrangements for Miss Wells and the children. I want you to keep this discreet. We keep a tight lid on details, and anythin’ you find, you bring to me. Otherwise, we’ll treat this just like any other crime scene. Specifically we are lookin’ for anythin’ that might indicate the assault on Agent Dunne was premeditated or that more than one perpetrator was involved either in the planning, or the actual attack.” Vin glanced at the front door. “I expect you to be thorough, but leave everythin’ exactly the way you find it.”
“Yes sir.” Greg started to leave and turned back. “I almost forgot. Kel took Missus Dunne outside. She said to tell you she’ll meet you on the porch.”
“Okay,” Vin dismissed Agent Ramsey and headed into the dining room to talk with Nettie.
The older woman looked at him expectantly. “Any news?”
Tanner shook his head. “I talked to Chris, but they don’t know much. JD is likely headed for surgery.” He crouched down in front of her. “Douglas Banks has agreed to represent Casey. He’ll meet y’all at the Federal Buildin’. Go to sublevel B, which is the detention area, and look for a sign that says intake. We’re gonna try to get Case into the infirmary, but Douglas will know where she is.”
“We’ll find you,” Cait spoke up. “I’ll be with Nettie for as long as she needs me.” She recognized the look of gratitude in Tanner’s eyes and wished she could do more to help. The days ahead were going to be rough for the entire Wild Bunch and no matter the outcome; they were all going to lose something. Trust, safe havens, and core values had been shattered tonight, and no one would be coming out of this unscathed.
Vin stood. “Barbara is making arrangements for you and the girls to stay somewhere else for a day or two, while forensics finishes up here. An officer will stay here to guard the premises. We’ll meet you at the Federal Buildin’.” Nodding to both women, he left before his emotions had an opportunity to explode.
Josiah walked with him outside. “Are you certain you don’t want me to go with you and Kel?”
“We’ll handle Casey. You go on to the hospital.” Vin told him, “Emotions are runnin’ high and Chris didn’t sound good when we hung up. I reckon you can help him better than me right now.”
“God, this is one helluva mess,” Josiah said, throwing his arm around Vin’s shoulder. “We’ll make it through this, Brother, but I have a feeing there are some dark days ahead of us.”
“Go,” Vin urged him. “We’ll come to the hospital as soon as we can. Call me if…” he hesitated. “…just call me.” Watching Josiah leave, a heavy weight fell over him. Vin squared his shoulders, took a deep breath, and walked over to Kel and Casey.
Kelli read her husband well. She stood up and assisted Casey to her feet. “Casey Teresa Dunne, you are under arrest for assault with intent to commit murder against Special Agent John Daniel Dunne. You have the right to remain silent….”
Vin used plastic ties to bind Casey’s hands instead of metal handcuffs. He took her by the arm and led her to his truck. Kelli handed him her gun and slid into the backseat next to Casey. Exhaling a deep sigh of regret, he got in on the driver’s side, started the engine and continued their journey through hell.
~~~7~~~
During the ride downtown, Casey remained silent and impassive. When Vin pulled up in front of the Federal Building, she became animated and combative.
“JD works here,” she said quietly at first, and then became agitated. “JD…JD!” Casey pulled against the restraints on her hands and screamed, “JD….JD, I’ll help you!” Turning to Kelli, she pleaded, “let me go… I need to warn him! They’re coming…..please let me go! JD…needs me…JD!” Kelli held on to Casey, but the young woman began to thrash around violently.
Vin parked the truck, jumped out of the front, and opened the back door to assist. “Casey, settle down,” he ordered sternly, grabbing her arm before she hurt herself. Once she stilled, he softened the tone of his voice. “We’re gonna go inside that buildin’, take your picture, and then a doctor will examine you.”
Casey stared at him for a moment and finally nodded her head.
Reverting back to her impassive state made it easier to get Casey through the booking process. Vin talked to the shift supervisor, and called in a few favors to get her taken to the infirmary. A brief discussion with the doctor on call convinced him she needed to be seen immediately, and as a precaution put on suicide watch in the psychiatric ward. Reluctantly, Vin and Kelli left Casey in the doctor’s care and went in search of Douglas Banks. They found him sitting in a break room with Nettie and Cait.
Douglas stood up when Vin entered the room, and reached out to shake his hand. “Good to see you again Tanner. I’m just sorry it had to be under these circumstances.”
Vin nodded.” I had Casey admitted into the psychiatric ward. A doctor is in with her now, but I told him to be expectin’ a visit from you.”
Nettie looked up. “Is she still…” she swallowed hard, unable to ask about Casey’s condition.
Kelli sat down next to Nettie and grasped her hand, giving Vin an opportunity to talk to Douglas. “She did just fine, Nettie. I’m sure the doctor who examines her will find a way to help.”
“Max sent a message for you, Kel,” Cait said, trying to keep things as normal as possible. “The kids are fine, and she and Walter are staying over at your house.”
Vin and Douglas moved away from the women to talk in private.
“The doctor placed Casey on suicide watch, Doug,” Vin informed him. “She’s not stable, the sooner you can get her into a regular hospital the better. I can’t do anymore on this end.”
“I’m already working on the case.” He sighed. “I promise you, I’ll do everything in my power to get the proper help for that girl.”
Vin looked over the attorney’s shoulder at Nettie, who appeared to have aged considerably during the past few hours. “I’m worried about Miss Wells too.”
“I understand, and I will be gentle with her. However, I do need to discuss a few business matters with her. I can cut my fee, but initially several big expenses will pop up…”
“Hold off talkin’ to her for a while. I don’t have my checkbook with me, but I’ll stand good for whatever you need.” Vin felt certain that once his brothers understood Casey’s condition, they would be willing to help Nettie with expenses. If not…then he and Kel would. It was the least he could do, he owed that old woman more than money could repay.
“Your word is good enough for me.” Douglas knew this was a difficult situation for everyone involved. “There is nothing more you can do here. You did your job, now it’s time for me to do mine. You and Kel go on to the hospital and I sincerely hope JD is much better by the time you arrive.”
Vin took in a deep, shaky breath, “Yeah, me too.”
The Tanners said goodbye to Nettie and Cait and then headed over to the hospital. Neither of them had much to say, each lost in their own thoughts.
Kelli stared out the window for a while and then said softly. “How could it come to this without any of us seein’ the pain she was in?”
“I don’t know, baby. I reckoned she and JD were havin’ a few problems because he mentioned a small number of odd things over the past few months, but we chalked it up to pregnancy hormones...then when she left after JJ was born...he was devastated...but this…hell, I saw the evidence, and still can’t believe it.” He turned into the hospital parking lot and pulled in next to Chris’s truck.
“It could have been me,” Kelli whispered. “I almost killed you in that damn crypt.”
“Look at me Kel,” Vin gently drew her closer. “I was mentally prepared for anythin’ when I went down those steps. I knew if you were alive, you’d be stretched to the limit of endurance and you were. Yes, you could have shot at me, but I don’t think you would’ve unless you were certain I was a threat. In spite of your exhausted mental state, trainin’ would have stopped you.”
“Maybe,” she said. “At least I would hope so, but still…after…”
“Kel, you did what you have always done when faced with a bad situation. You used the copin’ skills you had to learn early in life, the same way Jason and Andi did, to survive. By withdrawin’ into your protective shell, you gave yourself time to heal.” Vin reached out to cup her cheek. “Casey doesn’t have the kind of intensive trainin’ you’ve received, or had to face life alone. Nettie was her safety net while she was growin’ up. Then JD came along while she was still very young, and he’s been there for her to fall back on. Don’t get me wrong, I love Casey like a sister, but she’s always put up a bold front to hide her lack of life experience. She’s never been on her own, and consequently, had no idea how to deal with whatever pushed her to this point.”
“Surely there were signs though. JD must have been worried about her.”
“Yes...but JD never expected this, and didn’t see it comin’ until it was too late.” Vin sighed. “It’s a damn tragedy all around, for him, her, their kids, Nettie, for all their friends, and family who love and care for them. If...” he took a breath. “...when...JD regains consciousness...” Vin felt his emotions taking control and tried desperately to shake it off. “... this is gonna break his heart. He loves Casey as much as I love you.” He shook his head. “Her being locked up…no explanations for her actions… I can’t even begin to imagine how I’d feel if I were in his shoes right now…but… I damn sure wouldn’t turn on you and I know JD won’t do it to Casey either.”
Kelli's eyes burned with tears as she saw Vin struggling. She took his hand. “You know I’ll need to prepare a statement for the press and Travis will want a full report. Are you okay about leadin’ this investigation?”
He raised her hand to his lips and kissed it tenderly. “Don’t reckon I have any choice.” Vin leaned over and gently kissed his wife. “Let’s go inside. I think we need to be with the rest of our family.”
Chapter 7
Hungry for another soul, greed stoked the fires of hell. Only the tears shed by the righteous can prevent the Devil’s success.
Denver Memorial Hospital ~11:30 p.m.
Buck and Chris waited for what seemed like hours. At last, Doctor Gilford exited the ER and approached the two men who stood to meet him, both anxious for news.
“I'll cut to the chase. JD went into shock and we've been struggling to stabilize him. However, we are now confident he's stable enough to go up to surgery.”
“How serious?” Buck asked.
The doctor gestured for them to sit, but they refused, so he continued. “The first lateral blow hit muscle and nicked JD's left kidney, the second anterior blow,” the doctor pointed to his lower abdomen, “in the left lower quadrant, hit his small intestine.” He paused while the two ashen men took in the information. “While all are repairable injuries under good circumstances, we won't know how bad it is until we're inside. He has lost a lot of blood and the risk of infection is high, not just from the knife blade, but from the damage to the small intestine. We are going in under extreme circumstances, but we have no choice. Chris…Buck…right now I wouldn't even attempt to give odds, but you understand we will do everything we can for him.”
As he finished speaking, the double doors burst open. Nurses rushed JD's bloody gurney toward the elevator. Buck became queasy, watching the pale unconscious form of his little brother race by. He wanted to reach out, but was unable to move. They turned when Ezra and Nathan came rushing in, both coming to a dead stop when they caught sight of JD.
“Oh my Lord.”
“JD?”
Both men rushed over to Buck and Chris.
Ezra gripped Larabee’s arm. “It's true, then?”
Chris looked at him through glistening eyes, his voice hoarse with emotion, “Yes.”
Buck's face now reflected fury as he turned to his oldest friend, and realized he was holding back information. “Chris, what do you know?”
Larabee insisted they all sit down. Before he could speak, his cell rang, and he punched answer. After a brief conversation, he clicked off and paused briefly to collect his thoughts before he answered. “Vin confirmed that he will be arresting Casey for attempted murder.”
For a few long moments, no one spoke, and then Buck's eyes flashed with rage. “Casey? Casey did this?”
Chris nodded. “Vin said since there were no apparent defensive wounds, it doesn't look like JD saw the attack coming. Nettie found him unconscious, with Casey close by, staring into space, and holding a bloody knife. Casey is still passive and non-responsive, but they intend to take her in soon.”
“Barbara went over…to represent the children's interests,” Ezra informed them, fighting the emotions, which threatened to sweep over him. “When she left for Nettie's she only had time to say that Casey attacked JD. I thought perhaps she hit him, but I never expected…”
Buck groaned and leaned forward, resting his head in his hands. “This can't be happening.”
Nathan stood quickly, his own bitterness evident. “Rain is on duty tonight, she’ll tell us when she knows something. Are we gonna sit here, or get on up to the surgical waiting area and find out how our boy is doing?”
The other men stood in silent agreement and together they all made their way to the elevators.
Waiting Room ~ 4:00 a.m. Tuesday, May 27th
Observing the range of emotions displayed by his brothers over the past hour, Josiah understood their feelings. Fear, anger, disappointment, and conflict radiated around the room. Each man expressed his deep anguish in various ways.
Earlier, Josiah shared Vin’s struggle when, forced by circumstances, they had to set aside their own feelings and take charge of an unimaginable crime scene. He witnessed the pain in Nettie’s eyes as she tried to comprehend the truth. He felt Kelli’s fears for her husband and her sorrow for Casey and JD. He identified with Barbara and Caitlyn’s shocked faces when they entered the Dunne home. In spite of the horror of a family tragedy, he held compassion for the young woman who sat on Nettie’s couch, oblivious to it all. His experiences with Hannah taught him that for some things, there simply were no comprehensible reasons.
Nathan was a man of science, usually objective and reasonable. However, even as he sat quietly in the corner, the anger churning beneath his calm exterior was evident.
Ezra spent an enormous amount of time and energy attempting to convince the world he was unaffected by emotion. Yet tonight, with his air of composure stripped away, his thoughts collided. Torn between fear for JD and the concern for the Dunne children, he sat by the window staring off into the night, occasionally swallowing hard as he tried to come to terms with tonight’s tragedy.
Chris was most often the hardest to read, but even he was having difficulty concealing the angry turmoil of emotions simmering inside him. Part of him wanted to believe a rational explanation for what happened. A mistake or some tangible thread of reason he could grab hold of and understand. The other part of him wanted to forget his years in law enforcement and make someone pay dearly for the pain JD suffered. The resentments he held about Linda’s challenge for custody of the kids and Ice’s treachery, weighed on his mind. His family had suffered from both and now faced further hurt, inflicted by a woman, who was evidently not the loving wife and mother everyone thought they knew. Leaning against the wall nearest the door, he looked intense and menacing, like a lion ready to pounce on its prey.
Then there was Buck. He talked the talk and walked the walk, but of the seven of them, he was probably the most emotionally driven. For an hour, he paced the small waiting room and ranted. Running the gauntlet of emotional hell, he prayed for JD to live, and cursed Casey. He questioned God through his tears, and swore the devil’s vengeance in his rage, while he yelled about finding justice.
The mounting tensions in the room rapidly approached an explosive point. All that was missing was a target. When Vin and Kelli walked in, Josiah feared his brothers had found one.
Vin kept his hand on the small of Kelli’s back as they joined their family. Although he expected stress, and concern for JD, the massive amount of tension which hit him when they walked in surprised him. “How’s the kid?”
Buck stopped pacing, and spun around to face them, shouting, “Did you get the bitch locked up?”
Feeling Kelli tense up, Vin answered, “Casey has been charged and booked into jail. We left her in the infirmary, and her attorney is with Nettie.”
Narrowing his brow, Buck snarled. “The little bitch didn’t waste any time did she? I bet she already had her lawyer on speed dial when she planned to kill JD.”
“I suppose she expects to plead insanity?” Nathan shook his head. “I just hope the grand jury doesn’t buy that nonsense.”
Ezra turned from the window. “I agree. The young woman must be held accountable for her actions.”
Buck shot Vin a fierce scowl. “How the hell did she talk you into getting her in the infirmary? You should’ve thrown the bitch in with the rest of the scum, where she belongs.”
“She is where she needs to be, Bucklin.”Vin glared at him.”I arranged it. I also called Douglas Banks and asked him to represent her.”
“Why would you do that?” The softness of Chris’s voice contrasted with the intense look in his eyes.
Vin met his gaze. “Because she needed a good attorney, and Nettie was not in any condition to find one.” Vin’s head began to pound. He expected Buck to react first, and think later, but Chris’s challenge was unexpected.
“I don’t believe you’re taking her side in this,” Buck hissed. “The bitch can get her own lawyer.”
Kelli heard the judgmental tone in Buck’s voice. While she understood his concern for JD, she could not help but think how a few short months ago it could have been her he called a bitch. However, this was still family, damnit. No matter what Casey did, they should not simply dismiss her from their lives. She stepped forward. “I don’t like this any more than you, Buck, but if you call her a bitch one more time, I’m gonna cloud up and rain all over you.”
“Yeah, you try, Missy, and watch what happens.” Buck moved to stand in front of Kelli, physically spitting the words in her face.
Vin stepped between them, he loved Buck, but he would not stand by and let his brother vent his out of control anger on his wife. “Buck, back off.”
“Kel, you need to back off too,” Chris ordered. “He’s just saying what we’re all thinking.”
“That word is ugly and uncalled for, especially to a woman y’all supposedly care about, who regardless of what she did, is family, too.” Kelli snapped back defensively, thinking of the anguish Vin was going through over this. “We are not takin' sides and it’s offensive that you suggest otherwise. Of course, we care about what happens with JD, but no one in this room knows enough facts to appoint themselves judge, jury, and executioner.”
Ignoring Kelli’s words, Buck stood toe to toe with Vin. “The only one we care about is in surgery right now fighting for his life, or did you forget about JD?”
Tanner tried to disguise the hurt Buck's accusation caused. “No, I didn’t forget. While you were here pacin’ the damn floor, I was walkin’ in his blood. I questioned an old woman, who I care about a great deal, to tears, and stood by watchin’ helplessly as she aged before my eyes.” Vin’s pent up emotions were screaming at him. “I couldn’t be here, because I had a fuckin’ job to do, whether I wanted it or not, and I did it. We arrested a woman who has babysat our kids, shared meals with our family, and is someone I have known, and cared about for close to seventeen years. So hell yes, I asked Banks to help Nettie, even guaranteed his retainer, and I made the request to place Casey in the psychiatric ward where the doctor put her on suicide watch.” He poked his finger into Buck’s chest. “But through all of that, not for one second did I forget about JD!”
Buck grabbed Vin’s hand. “Yes, she's been all of those things...and more. All JD did wrong was love and care for her.” His voice dropped as he hissed out his words, “She sure paid him back, didn't she?” He shoved Vin's hand aside. “Guess it’s obvious where your loyalties are, Tanner. Casey and Nettie always could wrap you around their little fingers. Maybe you should go baby the little princess you seem to love so much, while we take care of the Kid.”
“Let it go, Buck.” Chris moved to stand in front of them. “They haven’t been here to see the results of Casey’s attack.”
Shaking his head and obviously taken aback by the animosity he heard in Chris’s voice, Vin sighed. “All the while we were doing what had to be done, we couldn’t wait to get here, to be with our family…but I reckon maybe we have different ideas about what that means after all.” Vin stepped back, took Kelli’s hand, and looked at Josiah. “We’ll be in the cafeteria. You’ll let us know about JD?”
Josiah nodded. What he was witnessing did not surprise him, but it saddened him to know he was right.
Chris pursed his lips and refused to meet Vin’s eyes when he and Kelli walked out. He was certain they would come around to the truth. Casey attacked his family and he would hear no excuses. No explanation justified her actions. Turning his focus on the door leading to the operating theater, he was confident when Vin came back and saw JD the way they had seen him, he would apologize for his insensitive remarks.
~~~7~~~
Hospital vigils never made for great conversation, but since the blow-up, the silence was unbearable, and the tension in the air was thick enough to cut with a knife. Rain came in several times to tell them JD was still in surgery, but she never stayed long. Their combined relief when Doctor Gilford walked in was overwhelming and they all stood to greet him.
“Hello everyone,” Doctor Gilford said as he entered the room still wearing his soiled scrubs. “JD is in recovery. We have successfully repaired, the damage, but there was some leakage from the injury to the small intestine. His temperature is a little elevated and we are monitoring it to make certain we do not have a problem brewing. Consequently, we are treating him with a strong antibiotic. He came through surgery well, but he is still in grave condition, I'm afraid. The shock and blood loss has taken its toll and he'll be going into SICU until further notice.”
“But he’s gonna be okay, right?” Buck needed some reassurance
“Physically, and barring any unforeseen circumstances, I expect a full recovery, given time.” The man's features saddened. “Sharing what happened with me earlier has helped a lot with how we’ve decided to deal with this. I have already arranged for a staff psychiatrist, who specializes in working with trauma victims, to talk with him when he comes around. Without Casey, and given the circumstances, JD's going to need help dealing with this mentally, while he heals physically. I am keeping him heavily sedated for a day or two, his body needs to recover and staying calm will aid the process. When he wakes, he will need people around him who can support him. We can't risk him collapsing or deteriorating.”
Buck and Chris straightened at the last remark as if to make a point.
“Don't you worry none, Doc,” Buck assured him, “the people in this room are behind him all the way and I for one will never let that boy down, or let him think for a split-second any of this was of his fault.”
Gilford nodded. “I don't doubt that for a minute. I'll notify you when he's settled in SICU.”
As the doctor left, Buck glared at Josiah as if encouraging him to disagree with him.
Meeting Buck's glare, Josiah stood. “Family is family, good, bad, or ugly, we don’t get to choose. I’m going downstairs to talk to Vin.”
Chapter 8
Pain can divide families, be the source of hurtful words, and inflict hell on loved ones.
Hospital Cafeteria ~ 5:00 a.m.
After drinking several cups of bad coffee, Vin’s mood was even darker than before. He thought about the exchange of words with his brothers in the waiting room an hour earlier. Buck was easy to read, he was reacting, plain and simple. Nathan and Ezra did surprise him, but he was certain after they had time to think, they would be more reasonable. Chris’s reaction had shocked him though. The look in Larabee’s eyes was one he had rarely seen, and the censure and bitterness radiating from his glare was evident.
“Travis will be here soon. He wants us to keep a tight lid on this. I talked to hospital administration and had the ER records sealed. If anyone asks, JD is not listed as a patient.” Kelli talked, but was not sure her Texan heard a word she said. They had avoided any discussion about what happened with Buck, Chris, and the others, but the conflict was eating away at Vin. “You haven’t uttered three words in the past thirty minutes,” she said softly. “Talk to me…please.”
Shaking his head, he closed his eyes for a moment before answering. “I knew when we walked into JD’s home earlier; this was going to be bad all the way around. Bad…” he scoffed. “What a fuckin’ understatement. I understand the immediate reactions from Nathan and Ezra. Even Buck’s vehement rantin’, I expected. Chris though,” Vin shook his head, “his anger was predictable, but the blatant censure in his eyes was disturbing.” When Vin looked up his pain was evident. “If I can’t stay objective, interview JD, and investigate this case without bias, we’ll be forced to turn the case over to the FBI, and they’ll rip the Kid apart. They’ll make him into another insensitive cop, whose marriage went bad. Question how a trained federal agent let this happen in his own home. In short, they’ll crucify him, and every news outlet in the country will be talkin’ about JD and Casey.”
Kelli sighed, put her hand over his, and squeezed. “Then we’ll just make sure that doesn’t happen. Dad is upset, we all are, but as soon as Doctor G confirms JD will be okay, I’m certain he’ll see things more clearly.”
“I hope you’re right, Baby, but …for the first time since I met him, I can’t understand where Chris’s head’s at. Hell, we all love JD, and Chris knows we’ll stand with him, no matter what, or at least he should. Does that mean we turn our backs on Nettie and Casey? God, what about Lilah, Daisy, and JJ…?” Thinking of the Dunne children was more than his battered emotions could handle right now.
Trying to control her own emotions was difficult when Vin’s expression showed how much he hurt. Her voice trembled, “I’m afraid none of us will be able to escape the heartbreak of what’s happened tonight for a long time, especially JD and the kids.”
Vin glared at the clock on the wall for the umpteenth time. “Why the hell don’t we hear anythin’? JD should be out of surgery by now.”
“Want me to call the nurse’s station again?”
“Appears you won’t need to… Josiah’s here.” Vin spotted him the moment he stepped into the room.
Josiah made his way across the cafeteria to join them. Vin and Kelli stood when he approached, their fears rose, since his demeanor gave nothing away. He put a hand on each of their shoulders and gave a comforting squeeze.
“JD's out of surgery and about to go up to SICU. He's fighting an infection, so they're keeping him sedated for now.” He spoke to Vin, “I'm guessing you'll need a statement from him. I’m certain that won’t happen for a day or two at least.”
“He's gonna be okay?” Kelli's voice was uncharacteristically soft and shaky.
Josiah shrugged. “They're hopeful, and expect him to recover, but Doctor Gilford is cautiously optimistic. A body in shock can be vulnerable and unpredictable. He…” Josiah swallowed, “he died once…in the ambulance.”
A wave of nausea washed over Vin, his jaw clenched. “I need to be with JD,” Tanner's words were soft-spoken, but with no room for argument.
“That's why I’m here,” Josiah acknowledged, “let's go.”
~~~7~~~
Orrin Travis spoke with Josiah before he came up to the SICU. After only being there a few minutes, he felt the full impact of the tensions radiating from his agents. He pulled Chris aside to explain the steps he had taken to protect JD and MCAT from outsiders prying for information. “I expect you to make certain this dilemma is handled with discretion. We will take care of this investigation internally and keep Agent Dunne and his wife’s name out of the press.”
Chris leaned into Travis’s personal space. “This dilemma involves family. We are not sweeping this under the Goddamn rug! I don’t fucking care if her name gets in the press or not. Casey did this and by God she’ll pay.”
Orrin did not waiver. “Need I remind you Commander Larabee, you are now the Assistant Director for MCAT? Your responsibility is to not only to protect Agent Dunne from inflamed publicity, but all MCAT units as well. Like it or not, you set the tone the others will follow. I expect you to act accordingly.”
“A member of my family was brutally attacked in his home by his loving wife, and you want me to act accordingly?” Chris hissed. “Fuck you, Orrin. You want my job, fine, but do not tell me to think about MCAT first!”
Travis nodded. He understood Chris’s anger and his need to vent, but that was no excuse for his behavior. “Your emotions are obviously too involved in this case to be objective. Consider yourself on emergency family leave Commander Larabee, until this investigation is completed.”
“Fine by me, but if you’ve forgotten, this case has a name… John Daniel Dunne, and damned right I’m involved. That boy spent more than five hours in surgery to save his life, and is still in critical condition, but you don’t need to worry about MCAT, Tanner’s already doing his damndest to whitewash what happened.”
“I will talk to Tanner.” Orrin bit his tongue to keep from saying something he might end up regretting. Fortunately, after talking to Josiah on his way up here, he was prepared for Larabee’s attitude. He hoped that a little rest, time, and a recovered JD would still the rough seas raging in his unit. His stance softened. “Take care of your family, Chris; I’ll come back tomorrow to check on Agent Dunne.”
On his way out, Travis met Vin, Kelli, and Josiah at the downstairs elevator. “Captain Tanner, I need a moment please?” Orrin placed his hand on Vin’s shoulder, and took a few steps away from the others. “I realize this is a bad time for all of you, but you are to continue this investigation.”
Vin nodded. “Kelli told me you wanted to keep this low key.”
“I do,” Travis said. “Bravo will take over Alpha team’s duties. Talk with Justin and bring him up to speed on what your unit is working on, but do not give him any details about Agent Dunne. I want him and MCAT protected from adverse publicity. Agent Sanchez and Coulter will assist you, and under these circumstances, you will report to me.”
“What about Larabee?”
“Commander Larabee is on emergency leave of absence and the rest of your team is officially on stand down status.” Orrin stated without explanation. “I will make certain you receive whatever you require to complete your inquiry. Work out of Camp Larabee, stay in touch with the U.S. Attorney’s office, let Kelli handle information flow, and do not discuss your findings with anyone else. I expect you to conduct a thorough, objective, and professional investigation.”
Taking a deep breath, Vin was aware of the huge weight which fell on his shoulders, but he had no options. If he refused, no one would represent JD, MCAT, or the family’s interest in the outcome, and it could get ugly. “I’ll do my job, Orrin.”
“I know you will.” Travis sighed, dropped his professional tone and said, “I care about JD too; that’s why I want us to control what gets out and what doesn’t. After he recovers, JD, his children, and his wife will still have to deal with the emotional ramifications of this mess for a long time. There is no need for public scrutiny of his or his children’s lives. Be discreet, but find the truth…wherever it leads.”
The elevator dinged for the fourth time. “Go on, visit JD, then do your job.” Orrin accepted Tanner’s nod and watched him disappear into the elevator with Josiah and Kelli. He said a silent prayer for his men, his friends, and their families before leaving.
~~~7~~~
Before Doctor Gilford allowed the group into SICU, he held up his hand. “Let me tell you what to expect. Your friend’s appearance is dreadful; he's drawn and pale and connected to a vent.” He paused as he saw the alarm on the faces of the men in front of him. “For now, JD's in a medically induced coma, his body is currently too weak to fight and function, so the vent is assisting him to breathe for the short term. When I am convinced he's ready, I'll remove the machine and begin to reduce his meds.”
“Will he wake up then?” Buck asked, anxious to be at JD’s bedside.
“I expect him to, yes,” Gilford continued. “He's alone now, so you may all go in, but he will be out of it for at least twenty-four hours, during which time I suggest you get some rest yourselves. When I'm confident I can bring him around, I'll let you know…you will have plenty of time to get to the hospital to be here for him.” Satisfied that his message was clear, and received, the doctor stepped aside to allow them entry.
Buck's heart clenched when he saw JD lying there, reaching out for support, he grabbed Chris’s arm. Trying to ignore the numerous cables, drains, beeping machinery, and the whooshing of the ventilator, they approached the bed; the brunet leaned over and gently touched JD's face.
Unable to prevent the tears, which welled in his eyes from falling, Buck sobbed. “I'm so sorry, li'l brother…I'm so, so sorry. We're all here, kid…fight, ya hear me? Fight or Chris will have your ass in a sling.” The others moved closer, each man lost in his own thoughts… one by one resting a hand on JD. A noise at the door drew their attention. Josiah nodded to them all, as Vin and Kelli followed him into the room.
Vin stared at the small form in the bed, his heart in his throat, causing him to swallow to relieve the pressure.
Kelli had her hand on his back and could feel Vin shaking. She brushed away a tear from her cheek. Buck moved just enough for them to get close.
Softly laying his hand on JD's head, Vin took a few moments to look at him, leaned in, and whispered into his ear. “I've got your back…don’t give up, we're all here for you…hang in there little brother. You have my word that I’ll find some answers for you.” He rested his head against JD's for a moment, fighting the images of the young man lying in a pool of blood on the kitchen floor, and then straightened.
Turning away from the bed, Vin was met by the anguished faces of his five other brothers, his own shaking became more evident. The events of the day were catching up with him and one huge solitary tear rolled down his cheek. Taking Kelli's hand, his voice shuddered, “I have some things need tendin’, but…I'll be back.” Without a backward glance, he left the room. It was not until he and Kelli were alone in the elevator that Vin finally broke down, allowing her to comfort him.
Chris stepped closer to JD and brushed hair from the younger man's face, addressing the others.
“I'm staying for a while. The doc said we should rest before he reduces JD's meds. I suggest we take his advice…when this kid comes back to us; he's going to need us fresh and awake. Go home…be with your families…then come back and be here for JD.”
He looked at Buck; there was no way this man was moving anytime soon. One by one, the men visited with their youngest, each offering words of comfort and promises to return after getting some sleep. Chris and Buck settled in for the duration. Chris needed to work some things out in his head before leaving. The blond looked sadly back at JD, no wife here at his side. Chris shuddered, his thoughts on Casey’s senseless violence and Linda’s egocentricity …fucking wives….this was so wrong…so very, very wrong.
As if the heavens empathized with the family, dark storm clouds shrouded the morning sun while torrential rains pounded the streets of Denver. Vin maneuvered through the rush hour traffic, his progress slowed by the slick roadways. Kelli was on the phone gathering information on their investigation and tried to ignore the soft curses he uttered under his breath.
Snapping the cell shut, she looked over to Vin, wishing she could somehow make all this easier for him, but at a loss to know how. “First off, I talked to Max, our kids are fine. I also reached Greg, and he’s waitin’ for us at JD’s. He has a preliminary report for us to go over on what he found, and he kept one tech with him, said he figured the fewer people involved the better.”
Vin nodded his response.
Kelli continued, “Barbara woke up a judge and managed to obtain temporary guardianship of the Dunne children assigned to Caitlyn. I talked to Cait and she told me Nettie and the kids are at Reins now, but she insisted that Nettie get some rest before the hearing today at two-thirty…” Though it was fleeting, she did not miss his reaction when she mentioned Casey’s court appearance. “Vin, I know you’re hurtin’, but we can’t change what’s happened.”
Reaching over to clasp her hand, he roughly whispered, “I know, but it doesn’t mean I have to like it, either.” Clearing his throat, he continued. “We’ll do what we have to and be professional. I…can accept Casey bein’ mentally unbalanced, it’s still a damn tragedy, but at least it makes better sense than the alternative.”
“We have to follow the evidence…wherever it takes us.”
“Let’s hope like hell Greg didn’t find proof indicating that Casey acted with intent or JD might never recover.”
*Or you,* she thought. It took a lot to have any of the seven genuinely angry with one of the others, but sometimes they did have extreme differences of opinions. Stubborn as they all were, it could get loud and occasionally physical, but it never lasted very long. However, their diverse emotional reactions to Casey’s attack on JD already proved to have the power to divide them. Kelli hoped it was temporary, that cooler heads would prevail, and they would find a way to come together in the days ahead, to attain the support and healing they needed, for all their sakes.