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Take the Plunge; Sam and Gene make a splash!
Topic Started: Nov 11 2014, 08:08 PM (2,859 Views)
Gene Hunt
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*Gene slams his hand down on his desk - an indication that the matter is sorted. Done with.*

I don't know what investigation you're following, but if you think Brooks is guilty then it damn well isn't this one.

The longer we stand 'ere waffling about 'im, the longer the real scrote's out there potentially doin' more damage! Now can we please shift our focus back on track!?
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Gene Hunt
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*Gene's eyes widen as he sees Sam begin to choke - no, no, this isn't going to happen, he won't let it...!

With his heart in his throat, Gene ignores the nurse and leans in, his face close to Sam's. The nurse may want him to stay back, but Gene knows how to calm Sam down, and he needs to try!*

Sam, it's the Guv!

*places his hand on Sam's cheek, stroking with his thumb and speaking in hushed but firm tones*

You're fine, hear me? Breathe and look at me. Look at me!
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Sam Tyler
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Gladys
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*The moment Gene's hand touches Sam's cheek, his eyes dart up, locking on Gene's face. His chest is heaving - he is breathing, his lung definitely is getting air in and out of him, but Sam's mind is still too caught up in the memory, mixing with fantasy, and Gene's voice reaches him through a blubbery haze, sounding too far away and unreal.

And yet, it's Gene's voice, and Sam responds to it, because real or unreal, it's /Gene/.

So he tries to focus, tries to actually /see/, grabbing for Gene's arm as he twitches, gasps, tries to twist away, kicking out, his mind telling him that he can't breathe, Gene telling him that he /can/, but who does he believe? Who's right? There's water everywhere, he can't breathe, no, no way, please Gene, please--*

-- plea-- *throws his head back as though trying to escape Gene's grasp*
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Gene Hunt
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*Panic rising in Gene's own chest, he drops into a crouch beside Sam's bed, his hand holding Sam's face steady. He needs Sam to look at him - to see him and see that he's safe.

And there's one surefire way to get Sam's attention....*

OI! *gives Sam one short sharp shake, ignoring the nurse's protests. His Guv!voice is about to unleash, and it's his last resort.*

Tyler! C'mon, look alive! You're in the hospital, safe as 'ouses! Snap out of it!
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Sam Tyler
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Gladys
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*Gene-- no, the Guv's voice cuts through the haze like a knife - it parts the water, makes Sam gasp once more, and then his mind allows him to draw in a long breath, which becomes a cough because it was done so raggedly and desperately.

But there are the hands on his face, the voice ringing in his ears clear as day, and Sam concentrates, hard, forces himself to stay rooted, clinging onto Gene even harder as the coughing shakes his body. And then, as it slowly peters out and Sam manages to catch his breath, there it is. He can breathe.

His chest is still heaving, but not as violently as before, and Sam can see. Sees Gene staring back at him, and his hands feel burning hot against Sam's cheeks. Sam inhales, and only then does he realise that tears are leaking from his eyes, tears of exhaustion and what is left of the fear of drowning.*
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Gene Hunt
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*Gene holds Sam's gaze breathlessly, keeping that connection up as though he's holding Sam's head out of the water once again. And finally, he sees that spark in Sam's eyes. That clarity. He's back.*

There, good man! Good man...

*Hesitant to take his hand from Sam's face but aware that the nurse probably needs to step in now, Gene stands up and takes a step back, voice urgently encouraging Sam on.*

Keep breathing, that's it.

*The nurse gives Gene a look (how that worked, she'll never know), and moves to hover over him, fingers moving to his neck to feel his pulse.

"Honey, do you know where you are?"*
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Sam Tyler
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Gladys
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*When Gene steps back and his hands leave Sam's face, it's as if they leave an icy cold in their wake, and for a moment Sam wants nothing more but to reach out and grab Gene's arm again, keep him from moving away. But then the nurse is already hovering over him, a touch to his neck and her question, and Sam nods, his eyes closing for a moment.*

H-hospital. *his breath is starting to even out somewhat, but his voice still comes out in a gasp*
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Gene Hunt
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*the nurse nods and quickly replies,

"Good. Then you know that you're safe now - you're warm and safe. Can you try to breathe a little slower for me?"

Gene hovers, wanting to jump back in and encourage Sam himself, but for the moment he'd better let the nurse do her job. He doesn't want to get in the way and make it worse... *
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Sam Tyler
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Gladys
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*Sam nods again, turning his head away from both the nurse and Gene, his hands fisting into his blanket with the effort to control his breathing. It takes several seconds, but then finally, he feels how it's becoming easier to inhale more deeply, how he's finally calming down.

Sam lets out a rush of breath then, his eyes closing entirely. He raises a hand to rub at his face, in an attempt to scrub away the cold sweat and the tears.*
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Gene Hunt
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*Pleased, the nurse lats her hand fall from Sam's neck and rest on his shoulder.

"Good. Now. I can offer you some oxygen, if that'll help? Your airway sounds clear, so it's optional if you'd like it."*
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Sam Tyler
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Gladys
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*At this, Sam shakes his head quickly.*

N-no.

*No, that's the last thing he'd want... that'd be further admitting that what happened has hit him hard, that... God. No, just... no. He just wants to sleep, and forget all of this, at least for the time being.*
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Gene Hunt
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*The nurse quickly backs off, not wanting to panic Sam any more than he already is.

"Alright, Mr Tyler. I think what would be best for you now is to have a few moments of quiet, just to calm down."

She gives Gene a look and adds,

"Don't agitate him. And any issues, call someone immediately."

Gene grunts in reply, instantly moving back to Sam's bedside as the woman vacates it. He has a feeling that him being near Sam will be the best thing he can do to help. Sam needs to feel protected.

Alone with his partner once again, Gene sits down and takes a slow breath*

....You okay?

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Sam Tyler
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Gladys
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....

*Sam keeps his head turned away even as Gene sits down again, after the door closes. He squeezes his eyes shut, rubs at them again to get rid of the last traces of tears around them.

Only then does he nod.

Even though it isn't the truth - Sam is not okay. The aftershocks of this panic attack are still running through him, making his hands tremble slightly, and then there's the fact that all of this happening is his own fault, through his own stupidity. That thought wells up inside him, and it causes bitterness to spread in his mind.

This shouldn't have happened.*
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Gene Hunt
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*That nod. If Sam's merely nodding, that means he definitely isn't okay.

Shit, how did the day turn out like this?

Gene watches Sam for a moment, studying his damp face. It's not even like he can curl up with Sam and give him a cuddle here. Not when there are prying eyes around. And usually that's what Sam'd need in this scenario. Some physical contact.

Gene's lips press together and he looks down at the floor, considering his options.*

Yeah, well. You will be. When y'get home and I can shove soup and sandwiches down you 'til you feel like nagging me again, eh.
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Sam Tyler
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Gladys
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*Why is it that Gene's words only serve to increase the bitter taste in Sam's mouth? Gene should be angry at him, not promise to mollycoddle the hell out of Sam. And while he does need physical contact (very badly), knowing that he can't get it /and/ having Gene react this way makes Sam grit his teeth against thw turmoil of emotions inside him.

He snorts, still not looking at Gene. He shouldn't be here - none of them should be here. This is when Sam turns his head, blinking his eyes open and looking at Gene, about to say something-

When he hesitates, and actually /looks/ at Gene.

Sees just how pale he is, how he isn't even wearing his own clothes, how there seems to be a slight tremor to his hands as well.

And he remembers that is was Gene who jumped into the water to save him.

Sam exhales, some of the bitterness transforming into guilt.*

...Shouldn't you be restin'?
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Gene Hunt
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*Gene frowns a little at the non-answer to his joke. There's no banter in Sam at the moment - no energy. Just a sad look of exhaustion, and that's all kinds of wrong.

But Sam's words make him pause and look at himself for a moment. He's warm, but there's a chill to his blood, somehow. Like the cold from the river has penetrated his very being. His limbs feel boneless and limp, tired from swimming against the current and diving underwater. In all truth, he feels exhausted himself. But it isn't him that breathed that water in, is it. Gene himself merely swallowed a few mouthfuls of the stuff. It isn't him that inhaled...!

He shrugs. *

I am. I'm sitting down.
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Sam Tyler
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Gladys
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*Sam observes Gene for a few more seconds.*

*quietly* ... y'look like shit.

*And of course he would - Sam doesn't know what happened exactly, but he does know that whatever Gene did, it must have taken a lot out of him.*

Should be lyin' down.
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Gene Hunt
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*raises an eyebrow at the comment on how he looks*

Oh, cheers.

*stretches in his seat, trying to make sense of the jelly-like feeling in his limbs*

I'll lie down when you're lookin' less like a drowned sea monster.
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Sam Tyler
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Gladys
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*At this, Sam clenches his fists hard, pulling the fabric of his blanket taught.*

Shut up.

*Startled by the harshness of his own words, Sam blinks and narrows his eyes in a frown. Then he exhales, turning his head away.* ... sorry -- just... don't... I don't want you to... *breaks off again with a frustrated sigh* .... go 'ome, Gene. Get some rest. Please.
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Gene Hunt
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*Gene's eyebrows drop a bit at Sam's harsh command, a small stab of hurt in his gut. But then, he settles. That isn't Sam saying that... It's the shock and the tiredness in him making him say that, and Sam's immediate apology backs that up.

Forcing himself to keep calm and to keep his voice level, Gene folds his arms and nods at Sam as if to demonstrate his next point*

And what if you have another funny turn, then? What then, if I'm havin' a kip?

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Sam Tyler
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Gladys
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*Sam just shakes his head, the bitterness showing in his expression.*

I'm in an 'ospital. There's nurses and doctors everywhere. I'll be fine.

*No, he won't - but he's caused enough of a mess already. It's been a long time since Sam felt this weak, and his need for contact and Gene's presence is being overpowered by shame and the desire to recover by himself, to show Gene that he'll be fine indeed, that... hell, that Sam doesn't need Gene, even though he does.*
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Gene Hunt
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*Gene's gaze is fixed on Sam, staring at him like he's trying to read Sam's mind. Trying to seek out the little cracks in Sam's facade. Because Gene knows Sam doesn't really want him to leave - they've been through enough together for him to know how Sam operates when he's in this state.

But at the same time, Sam's closing off to him. He's already snapping, and if Gene sits there stubbornly all night, he's just going to agitate Sam more. Maybe it would be best to just leave him to it and let him rest this out....

He sighs, averting his gaze as he considers this.

You promise to call someone if you start freakin' out again?
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Sam Tyler
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Gladys
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*This time, Sam simply nods. Nothing more.

Because if he opens his mouth again, he'll either snap or beg Gene to stay after all, and he doesn't want either. He needs to be strong now.*
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Gene Hunt
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*Gene takes another deep breath at Sam's silent nod, rubbing his hand over his face. He really, really doesn't want to leave, but it doesn't seem like he has much choice. His presence doesn't seem to be comforting Sam as much he'd have hoped. So maybe he really should go home after all.*

Right.

*Too tired and weak to protest, Gene pushes himself up off the chair and gathers the bundle of his cold, wet clothes*

I'll be off then....

Don't you forget your promise, eh? Any problems, you call someone. And you tell them to call me. I'll leave you alone if that's what you want... but I'm not bein' kept in the dark if you're in trouble.
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Sam Tyler
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Gladys
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*Sam finally turns his head to look at Gene, watches him gather up his things. The fact that Gene relented so quickly... his heart feels like it's being squeezed unbearably. And his throat as well, seeing as his voice nearly cracks when he speaks again.*

I will. I...

*He just wants Gene to get some rest. Doesn't want him to overexert himself for Sam's sake. It wouldn't be fair - Sam not being able to do anything, and Gene doing more than he's able to.*

... I'll be okay.
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Gene Hunt
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*Gene wants to respond no you won't. But he can't. He's already commited to this, he has to stick with it.*

... Okay.

I'll pick you up tomorrow morning, so you look after yerself.

Get some rest.

*And with that, Gene walks himself out of the room on tired legs, dragging himself down to the front desk and calling himself a taxi. One more assurance from the receptionist that they'll let him know if there's any change in Sam's condition and he's off, heading home to crawl into a hot shower and then into bed, bone tired and exhausted. He doesn't even think to call up the station and ask whether someone'd taken the Cortina back from the river.

He'd expected to be out like a light within seconds, but it takes a while to finally get off - thoughts of Sam are in his mind. Should he really have left?

But finally he manages to sleep, still feeling cold somewhere in his bones*

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Sam Tyler
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Gladys
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*whispers*

You too.

*And then Gene is gone, slinking out of the door like a rejected dog. Sam got what he wanted, and it made him feel like shit.

He turns his head to stare at the ceiling, exhaling explosively. Great, fantastic. He'll need to make this up to Gene, badly.

But for now, Sam is tired. So very tired. That's what nearly dying does to you. Despite his guilt, Sam manages to drift off fairly quickly, having turned onto his side. The nightmares start near immediately, but after the first time he wakes up screaming, the doctor gives him a small dose of sedatives and the promise that they won't contact Gene over this. Not over a mere sodding nightmare.

After this, Sam sleeps the sleep of the dead - deep, pitch-black, and dreamless. And it seems that the shots he received to protect him from the things he'd managed to swallow and inhale along with the river water are working; the next morning, when Sam wakes up, he feels... alright. Not okay, not by a long shot, but not too bad either.

There is only one more check up to do, and it lasses smoothly. Afterwards, knowing that Gene's already receiving a call from reception to tell him that Sam is ready to be picked up, Sam is sitting at the edge of his bed, fiddling with the hospital gown. He really hopes that Gene will remember to bring a change of clothes.... Sam doesn't fancy putting on the sodden, stinking clothes that took the plunge along with him.*
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Gene Hunt
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*Gene's already up when he gets the call. He's not had an easy night, and he still feels exhausted, despite being in bed a lot earlier than usual. He's downed a cup of coffee and munched in some toast already, which has helped a bit... But it doesn't settle the slightly odd feeling in his stomach. It must be how he and Sam left things yesterday. They didn't part on the best of terms, did they.

Someone (possibly Ray) appears to have delivered the cortina back home, luckily! So Gene drives himself over to the station, a bag of clothes for Sam on the passenger seat. It's odd, it seems weirdly cold in the car... Gene doesn't usually have to put the heater on this time of year...

After a short drive, Gene's walking down the corridor towards Sam's room. He hopes his partner's back to normal now... There's the worry that something happened and Sam didn't let him know. But he'll try and remain positive as he enters the room, dropping the bag by the doorway*

You dried out a bit yet, then?
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Sam Tyler
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Gladys
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*Sam turns around when he hears footsteps, and... there Gene is. The sight of him does a lot to lift Sam's mood, despite everything. Despite the fact that he still feels guilty over... over just about everything that's happened since he planted the car in the river.

And at the same time, Sam is somewhat shocked. Gene... doesn't look much better from yesterday. Still pale, still exhausted.

Sam nods with a slight delay.*

Yeah. *sniffles slightly - he's still feeling a little cold himself, cold and cold-y.* How're you feelin'?
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Gene Hunt
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*How is he feeling? Gene isn't sure. He feels like he hasn't quite replenished the energy he'd expected to, and that's a little odd. He's had the whole night to recover, after all....

So he blusters on through, deflecting the attention back to Sam.*

Oh, tickety-boo.

How about you? No problems in the night?
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Sam Tyler
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Gladys
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*shakes his head - Gene doesn't need to know about the nightmare.... not yet, anyway.*

Nope. Slept alright.

*As he speaks, Sam gets up from the bed and walks over to Gene, bending down to pick up the bag.* And if this is what I think it is, I'll feel even better. *flashes Gene a little smile, though it's still tinged with worry; Gene deflected his question like he always does, and up close he looks even paler, dark rings circling his eyes.*
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Gene Hunt
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Gene steps aside, leaning against the wall to save his tired legs and to give Sam some space*

It's not a sack full of chocolate eclairs, so don't get too excited!

*Sniffs, nodding at the bag with less enthusiasm than he usually would*

Wanna get into something less bum-flappy and then get out of 'ere? Y'probably want a shower an' all.
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Sam Tyler
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Gladys
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*opens uo the bag as Gene speaks already, and indeed - fresh clothes. Sam drops the bag on his bed and already starts fiddling with the laces that bind his gown together at his back - but that is not so easily done, he simply can't seem to grab a proper hold of the right end.*

Shower sounds... great, still feel... all mucky... oh bloody 'ell - could you...?

*Sam turns his back to Gene, face growing slightly hot with exasperation and embarrassement. He can't even get the gown off himself, for heaven's sake.*
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Gene Hunt
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*Gene moves forward worth Sam's request, anticipating what he was going to ask before he asked it*

Yeah I know - dunno what was in that water but it's gonna cling to us like flies on shit. Showered yesterday and still feel like me bloody skin's crawling.

*undoes Sam's gown and slips it down over his shoulders, then turning and slinking back to the wall. He's seen Sam naked a million times by now, but he gets the feeling Sam wouldn't want him catching an eyeful at this minute*

You feel like goin' back to work after, or you wanna lounge about for the rest of the day and recover?
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Sam Tyler
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Gladys
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Mmh. S'half a canal, after all.

*Sam keeps his gaze downcast - Gene's fingers are touching his bare skin now, but then he's gone, moving away, and Sam is left feeling cold. He slips out of the gown all the way, and then starts picking out the clothes and putting them on one by one.*

Spent the night recovering, didn't I? I'll be alright going into work. *buttoning up his trousers, Sam turns to look at Gene.* What about you though? Y'look a bit... peaky.
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Gene Hunt
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*makes a dismissive noise, folding his arms and once again diverting the attention. He may not be feeling quite right... But it's nothing to worry about. He's just tired.*

You looked at yourself lately? 'Peaky' belongs to you, not me.

*moves forward to pick up the empty bag and hold out his arm in case Sam needs it*

You'll tell me if you start feeling even shitter?
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Sam Tyler
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Gladys
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*mutters* You 'aven't looked at yourself in the mirror lately, 'ave you.

*gives a sigh, rolling his eyes* 'course I will. Don't want to cause anym... any trouble.

* Any more trouble than I already have , is what Sam nearly said. But Gene doesn't need to know about the guilt eating away at him... not until Sam's made it up to him anyway, in whatever way he can.

He walks past Gene then, opening the door himself. He's determined to prove to Gene that yes, he is tired, but he's okay, physically. He can do this.*
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Gene Hunt
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*Gene watches as Sam moves ahead of him, silently turning down his help. He frowns, dropping his arm and watching Sam's back for a second before slumping his shoulders and following, too tired and weirdly apathetic to snap. He's looking forward to just getting today over with, really. Sam still seems off with him, and he'd thought that maybe he's have gotten over it by today.

No such luck, it seems.

Gene closes the door behind him and hovers behind Sam, ready in case he's needed.*

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Sam Tyler
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Gladys
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*His leather jacket draped over his arm (it still isn't completely dry, and Sam suspects it will take a while for the river stink to leave it completely), Sam makes his way down the hall and towards the exit (his room was on the ground floor), aware of how close Gene is to him, although at the same time there is an undeniable distance between them. It doesn't feel right.*

So, er... any news on the case? Did they catch Brooks?
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Gene Hunt
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*Gene takes a few longer strides, catching up with Sam in order to answer his question.*

Doubt it. Bloke knew you were chasing 'im, he'd have scarpered as soon as he realised you were in the drink.

S'pose we'll find out when we get to the station. I conked out last night before I could check.

He didn't happen to mention any nice little comfy safehouses out of town, I suppose? No mention of a cheery hidey-holiday to Scunthorpe?
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Sam Tyler
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Gladys
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Mh.

*Sam tries not to look too disappointed, but he isn't sure that he's succeeding... Then again, seeing as Gene hasn't even called in at the station yet, maybe Annie will have a nice surprise in store for them.

In response to Gene's question, Sam shakes his head morosely.*

Didn't get that far. He... *frowns, trying to recall the details of their conversation* ... he hit me over the head with something... *which has been made obvious by the bandage wrapped around his head, covering the gash to the side of his forehead.*

It shouldn't be hard to find him, though. As you said, his car's got this special system... and we've got the number plate down as well... he won't be able to hide for long.
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Gene Hunt
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*Gene looks up at the bandage on Sam's head as Sam mentions his head injury. Somehow he hadn't thought that he'd actually been clobbered. Gene'd assumed that Sam'd merely hit his head on the wheel when the car hit the water.

He takes a frustrated breath, swallowing against the slightly odd, rough feeling in his throat*

Yeah. And the sooner we get people out chasing his exhaust trail the better.

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Sam Tyler
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Gladys
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Yeah.

*they've reached the exit now, and Sam slows down somewhat, trying to spot the Cortina. And, yes - he's noticed how Gene's voice is somewhat husky. Rough. Hopefully just a cold developing, and nothing more...*
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Gene Hunt
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*Noticing Sam looking for the Cortina, Gene gently bumps his arm against Sam's back, steering him towards where he's parked. The car isn't far - just round the back of another car.*

I'll take you home first. Get you showered and smellin' less like a quagmire and then we'll head into work. As long as y'still think you can finish the day?
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Sam Tyler
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Gladys
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*Sam flinches ever so slightly at Gene's touch - They're out of the building now, out of this oppressing atmosphere that kept reminding Sam of his near demise, but that doesn't mean that he's about to relax... especially not if Gene keeps reminding him of what happened with his little off-hand comments. They're gnawing at Sam's mind, making the guilt grow and grow.

So Sam gives a stiff nod.*

Fine. No problem.
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Gene Hunt
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Right.

*as they reach the car, Gene lets Sam open his own door - it seems as though Sam isn't really in the mood for Gene to be playing at 'gentleman chauffeur' today. He stiffens at Gene's touch, won't take his arm in the hospital... He'd better just let Sam cool off on his own.

As soon as Sam's buckled in Gene pulls off with all of his usual gusto, heading towards home. It's not a long drive, but for Gene it feels longer than it should. He has to blink hard to keep his focus, concentrate more than usual.

Must be the atmosphere.

Soon enough, they're parking up outside the house and Gene's switching the engine off*

Need anything to eat before we go in? Could stick some toast on while you're washing yer bits?
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Sam Tyler
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Gladys
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*As they drive, Sam throws several glances towards Gene, trying to determine what's going on. Gene seems... off. Sam catches him blinking hard several times, and that worries him... but something keeps him from asking Gene once more if he's alright. He deflected already, and Sam is not up for a heated discussion while Gene is behind the wheel.

Sam is unbuckling himself already when Gene speaks up, and he hestitates for a moment, shaking his head afterwards.*

M'not hungry... I'll get something from the canteen later.

*he moves to get out of the car, inhaling at the fresh (and frankly cold) air the blows into his face*
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*Gene grunts in response and exits the car, moving to open the front door. He's not particularly hungry either, but he should probably eat something. If anything, it'll be something pleasureable and tasty before he has to go deal with trying to find their suspect.*

Alright then, suit yerself. Don't be too long, I expect you've had enough of feelin' wet these days!
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*Sam, already at the front door before Gene reaches it, flinches visibly at the "wet" comment.

And something inside him snaps.

He whirls around and grabs Gene's lapels, yanking him close so that their faces are nearly touching*

*hisses* Alright, Hunt , enough. Enough. I nearly died yesterday, and I know I'm the one to blame for acting rashly, and I certainly won't go and repeat the experience, but the last thing I need now is you bloody rubbing it in. Got it?!

*Sam's thoughts are racing, anger coursing through him, anger at Gene for not getting it, and anger at himself for snapping and for the situation and all that guilt -- it's like a pot boiling over.*
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*Gene isn't ready for when Sam grabs his lapels, his eyes widening and his brow furrowing as Sam's words sink in. Sam thinks he's rubbing it in...? That's not what he meant...!*

You think that's what I'm doing? Rubbing it in?

*grabs Sam's wrists and pulls his hands away from his clothes, freeing himself*

I know you almost died - I was the one who dived in and got you out, remember!? Scared me bloody shitless! M'just trying to keep things normal! So we can move on and laugh about it and get back to how we're s'posed to be!

*huffs out a frustrated breath and turns, stomping towards the house moodily. He's tried to make things easier for Sam... But maybe he's not made it easy enough. Gene knows he can be insensitive, and maybe that's how he's coming across... Dammit. But he does care. He cares about Sam more than anything in the world. It's just.... getting that out in words.*







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*Sam doesn't resist when Gene disemtangles himself, doesn't even pull his wrists out of Gene's grasp - he's surprised, to some extent, that his partner isn't getting more physical with him - but he does keep glaring, chest heaving with rage.

But then, Gene's words hit him properly. Sam blinks, lets it all sink in. He... christ.

Just as suddenly as he'd snapped at Gene, he now brings up his hands, covers his face with them, heaving a breath and letting it out slowly. Christ, he's a wreck.

After a few seconds, Sam rubs at his face a little before lowering his hands again, knowing that his eyes are red now. Only then does he follow Gene inside, remaining silent. He can't talk now, he simply... can't. Too many things are eating at him.

Inside he drops his jacket in a corner - he'll need to let it vent out, see if the water did any lasting damage - and then walks up the stairs. He wants to get that shower done quickly... what he needs is work. Work on the Brooks case, first and foremost.

And then, after that, he needs to apologise to Gene. Properly.*
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*Gene's inside sticking the toaster on by the time he heard Sam enter the house and move up the stairs. He regrets all the comments now - all the little attempted water jokes. He'd thought he was helping diffuse the tension between them, but he just seems to have made things worse.

Feeling rough and tired, Gene peers into the hallway, unsure if Sam's still there. He finds it empty apart from Sam's jacket, discarded in a heap. Looking at it, damp and limp... It reminds him of what could have been.

With a shudder, he steps towards it and picks it up, draping it carefully over the radiator to dry out fully before moving back into the kitchen. He's not really hungry, but he's not ready to go to work without something in his stomach. So he sits and munches some toast while he waits for Sam to emerge. Hopefully he'll be OK when he does come down... *
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*Sam doesn't take long in the shower - the hot water is very nice, yes, but at the same time it's... odd. There is a weird flutter in his chest when he lets the water run over his face, holding his breath for a moment, and the flutter becomes panic. He turns off the water, soaps up, and then hurries to finish up.

A few minutes later Sam walks into the kitchen, wearing his black trousers and the dark/red striped shirt, towelling off his damp hair. Seeing Gene eat toast goes a little way to dampen his own worries a little - if Gene's eating he must be alright.... Sam stops near the door, the towel in hand, and he suddenly doesn't quite know what to say, dropping his gaze to the floor.*
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*Gene looks up as he senses Sam approaching, and the lack of comment or any kind of attempt to communicate makes Gene's stomach clench. He doesn't want to joke again in case Sam's still upset, so instead he pushes a plate towards Sam, still chewing through his words*

One slice left if y'changed yer mind.

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*Sam swallows, for once seeing Gene's offer as the offering of peace it is.

Still, he shakes his head, though he sits down opposite Gene, rubbing off his hair once more.*

M'alright... thanks though. *gives a weak half-smile* They gave me meds yesterday... kind of ruined my appetite.
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*Gene looks down at the toast, considering for a moment maybe eating it himself. But no, he's had enough. And if Sam's not hungry he's not going to force him.*

Well then... *licks his buttery fingers and looks back up at Sam, no animosity in his eyes*... S'pose we'll be heading out, then.
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*Sam nods, looking down at the table for a moment before raising his head again and catching Gene's gaze. He stares back for a good few seconds before looking down again and ruffling his hair with quick, frantic motions - a telltale sign that he's embarrassed and doesn't know what to do. Something is keeping him from simply apologising, but as Sam rises from his chair again he does his best to sound more relaxed and friendly*

Yeah, best get going. Make sure CID hasn't descended into chaos and mayhem without us, eh.
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*Gene picks up on Sam's embarrassment, sensing that Sam wants to say something... But what comes out of his mouth is lighter and friendlier than what came before it. And while Gene would usually make a comment trying to find out what's in Sam's head, this time he's just too tired. He just wants to get the day over with and get to bed. Put the fatigue down to physical exertion and emotional strain.*

Yeah. Seems we can cause enough of that on our own, eh.

*regrets that as soon as he says it - he knows Sam's not in the mood for his usual banter...so he amends himself quickly before getting up and heading for the door*

... Not that that's always a bad thing.
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*Sam does manage a little smirk at that, looking away with a huff.*

Isn't that the truth.

*He follows Gene outside - catching sight of his jacket on the radiator. Gene... he bothered to pick it up. For some reason this makes Sam's chest go weirdly tight, but he doesn't allow himself to think about that further. First work, and after that they can work out the rest.

Eager to get to it, Sam swings himself into the passanger seat, grabbing hold of the handle above the window as usual.*
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*Gets into the car with a little snort, pleased that at least Sam doesn't seem to have taken that comment badly. Now hopefully they can have a quiet rest of the day just sending people out to search for Brooks's car. He'll get Sam to phone around the surrounding train stations, hotels etc to see if he's made the mistake of parking in a proper car park, and Gene'll get the word out to his snouts and other establishments he might have checked in at. Hopefully that'll go some way towards finding this guy.

Gene spends the short drive to the station explaining his plan to Sam - get the word out that they're after a wanted person and get everyone searching for the car. Sam might want to go out himself, but at this stage, Gene'd feel better keeping Sam in the warm, dry station for a little while.*

You know what you're doin', then? *parks up slowly, pulling on the handbrake*
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*Sam nods along - the plan sounds reasonable, he doesn't really have anything to add. They know the registration plate, they know what the car looks like.... it shouldn't be too hard to find. Plus, Brooks himself isn't exactly conspicuous, what with his limp and the crutches he needs...

As they come to a halt, Sam nods once more.*

Yeah. Manage the whole thing from my desk. *He doesn't sound bitter or anything - he knows that Gene will want to keep him inside, and he himself will be happy not to spend the day driving around in a car either. However...

Sam turns his head to look at Gene properly. He still looks pale and tired, and the little stop at the house doesn't seem to have done much to help him recover. To the contrary - it seems to have gotten worse, even...*

... are you sure you're alright?
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*Gene pauses as Sam asks the question. To prompt that, he must look as tired as he feels... And his mood isn't in the best condition either. The tiredness is making it hard to continue his attempts at combating the concern he feels with cheer and jokes. So he sighs, frowning at himself*

Yeah. Just a bit knackered, that's all. Swimming must've used up me energy.

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*Sam bites his lip for a moment - swimming, to save him - but then he gives himself a push and places his hand on Gene's shoulder, giving it a firm squeeze. That's all the intimacy he can show here...*

Take it easy, yeah? We can... we can go 'ome early. Get some takeaway curry. *tries to smile encouragingly*
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Yeah.... *looks down as Sam squeezes his shoulder - Sam seems to be very aware of how tired Gene is. Maybe he's just feeling the same. So he opens the door ready to get out and carry on as usual*

Yeah, curry's just what we need. Bit of mouth-melting vindaloo to warm us up, eh.
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*This time, Sam's smile is real.*

Indeed.

*He gets out of the car as well, equally ready to carry on. Sam is eager to get to work, do as much as he can to close this case. He kicked it wide open, after all.

Sam doesn't wait up for Gene as he starts walking towards the station, trusting that his partner will be following very soon after locking up the car.*
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*Gene looks up as he hears Sam's disappearing footsteps.well,at least someone's keen!

He locks up and follows into the building, trudging slightly as he goes. Maybe he'll be able to delegate so well he can have a short nap. Nobody'll notice except maybe Sam.

In any case, he doesn't expect they'll find the guy today. It'll take too long to get the feelers out, and there's only half the day left. Still. They can try... *
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*Gene is right about that - this really doesn't go as speedily as Sam would like it. He'd forgotten about the less advanced technology and methods lf policing in this era... again.

Still, he does everything he can, taking more tasks than he strictly would have to (mostly doing things Gene might have had to do otherwise, trying to give him space to breathe). Sam himself isn't completely well himself, though - still somewhat shivery, his brain somewhat clogged up - so that by the end of the day, he's sniffling slightly and having troubles concentrating on the papers in front of him. They did turned up a promising lead during the day, but that's all it is - a lead. Sure, more evidence came in, evidence that proves that Sam was right all along, but that won't help them now.

Finally, Sam leans back, exhaling with a sigh. Most of the others have left already (except for Annie and Vince), and it's been quiet in Gene's office... So Sam pulls himself out of his chair and heads over there, knocking before opening the doors.*

*keeping his voice lower than he normally would - Gene might be asleep, after all* Guv?
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*Gene'd done all the phoning around he needed to in about an hour after arriving - really it was just a case of making sure everyone else knew what they were doing and then writing up what he'd done. So for the last hour or so he's been dozing. Not quite asleep, but hovering on the edge. He still feels bone tired, and it doesn't quite make sense to him. Okay, he was absolutely exhausted after Sam's rescue, but surely that should have worn off by now...

At the sound of Sam opening the door, he jerks. Bleary-eyed, Gene's head shoots up off of his crossed arms, hair sticking up and flopped down over his fringe*

Just... Organising... My... *looks down at his desk, searching for an excuse and spotting one *... Biscuits.
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*Sam can't help it - the sight of Gene's mussed up fringe, plus his "excuse", they make a grin spread across his lips as he closes the door behind him and shakes his head.*

'course. Well done, chief inspector.

*Still, he can't help but notice that Gene doesn't look any better from before... to the contrary, he looks worse for wear.*

Look, let's call it a day - the others are down at the pub already.
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*Sam's grin confuses Gene slightly - but then, he remembers what Sam was like before and he finds he doesn't care if Sam's amused at him. Just as long as he's happier now.

Processing Sam's proposal takes a few seconds, but finally Gene's sluggish brain gets it and he nods, running a hand over his messy hair in an attempt to smooth it down*

Yeah. Yeah, s'probably gettin' late anyway...

*pushes himself up and gathers his coat in his arms, frowning as he feels his head pulse and throb. Huh, when did he start getting a headache?*

You uhm ... find any leads? Catch any scents?
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*Sam keeps his eyes on Gene while the latter moves about sluggishly, having to hold back so as not to go and give him a hand, grab his arm... Sam's had time to cool off over the course of the day, and while he feels somewhat weak himself, it's obvious that Gene is feeling even worse.

But Sam has no choice but to hover, moving aside to let Gene walk through the door*

We know for certain that he's left town... Did a bit of digging into his background, and we've contacted police in Blackpool and Leeds to keep an eye out - Brooks has relatives there. We're still running checks on friends and colleagues, lookin' at every angle... Also, we are certain now that Brooks was indeed the cuplrit.

*Even saying it, it gives Sam no pleasure now. Not when Gene is looking just about ready to drop.*
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*Gene grunts. Of course Brooks was the culprit. He'd known that eventually they'd pull him in. But now look what's happened - the man's relatives know, are probably worried about where he is. They've had enough upset already. This is exactly what he'd wanted to avoid, a manhunt. By alerting Brooks of their suspicion, he's been given the chance to run.

But... They'll find him eventually. It'll all come full circle and back to where it would have been.*

Right. Well... he'll turn up.

*switches the light off and moves through the door. What he'd really like is to drop straight into bed. But there's dinner to deal with.*

Still up for a curry then? Warm up yer baubles?
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*Sam just nods - Gene is right... a man like Brooks can't hide forever. They'll have him soon.*

Sure - if you're up for it. We can just order takeaway and eat at home... No offence, but you look about ready to drop.

*falls into step with Gene as they move towards the elevator, calling goodbye to Annie*
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*Gene may feel as crap as he looks, but he's not about to let onto Sam. Sam's started to act more like himself - he doesn't want to spoil it by being a grump.*

Well I may look like shit, but I feel tickety-boo, taa.

*... Though he's still not going to exert himself more than he wants to!*

You gonna do the ordering, then? Could drop you off. Tell Patel I've sent my lackey for some exercise!
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*raises his hands defensively* If you say so...

*manages an eyeroll - Gene certainly does sound like himself...*

Aye aye, sir... if you're sure you /can/ drive. *Because Sam still isn't quite convinced that Gene isn't worse than he pretends to be...*
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'Course I can drive! Who do you think I am? Mutley!?

*manages a smirk, though it may be slightly less convincing than usual as they head out of the building and towards the car*

Reckon an early night'll do us both good, after. Might have to spare the 'bedtime boffing' though - I'll jiggle yer bones another night.
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*It seems that Sam will never get used to Gene's turn of phrase - he can feel his cheeks heat up at his partner's words, and he's glad no one else is around. Still, as they reach the car, Sam can't resist the temptation to join in with the banter, in his own way.*

Fine by me.... you look like you'd fall asleep on top of me anyway.
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You'd probably enjoy that.

*swings the door open and gets into the car, sighing in satisfaction as he takes his weight off his legs.*

Vindaloo for me - and for you, then. You need something to make you sweat, if I'm not going to!
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*scoffs* You are joking? You'd completely crush me, I'd suffocate.

*Yes, this... this is the sort of banter Sam has needed. Keep him distracted, keep him rooted in a normality that is separate from what happened. It makes him relaxe in his seat - well, as much as he can with Gene's driving.*
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Some people love that whole crushing thing - getting birds to walk all over their bits in high heels... You're a kinky bugger, would've thought you'd have found that titillating!

*rounds the corner, getting close to the Indian. He's still not exactly hungry, but the idea of a curry is never one he'll turn down, even if he IS feeling a bit strange... *
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*covers his eyes with his hand in a mock-facepalm*

There's a distinct difference between high heels an' your podge.

*Which is to say that Sam finds Gene's podge highly comfortable and that he would never ever trade it for anything else.

As they pull up to the Indian, Sam unbuckles his belt.*

Vindaloo, yeah?
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*leans back in his chair once he's parked, settling in for a short wait*

Yeah. Don't worry about a poppadoms, curry'll be enough tonight.

*closes his eyes and leans his head back as though trying to get a snooze in. He's not really trying to fall asleep, though - he just wants to block out the light and the noise for a moment. Recharge a little...*
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Right.

*Sam opens the door - but then he hesitates for a moment, looking at Gene. This.... isn't normal. Either he really is extremely tired, or... or he's....

No, it's going to be fine. He's going to be fine after some sleep.

Sam closes the door behind him, walks over to the restaurant. A few minutes later he returns, carrying a good load of paper bags filled with plastic bowls. It takes a bit of maneuvering, but he manages to open the door and sit down without dropping anything.*

Right, that should last us for a while! Hope you're hungry...!
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*Gene almost does manage to drift off by the time the door opens again, and he blinks back to wakefulness as Sam sits down. The smell of curry fills the car within seconds, and while Gene isn't exactly hungry the smell of his favourite food does perk him up a little.

Slightly groggily, Gene stretches and replies*

When curry's around? Always am.

*turns the engine back on and sets off*

You feelin' back to normal then? No lung issues?
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*Oh thank Christ - hearing Gene perk up like this is a big relief. He'll be okay - even if he sounds fairly sluggish still.*

M'fine. *clears his throat* Bit tired, but I can breathe properly. No headache, no other complications.
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Good. Any mouth-to-mouth I give you from now on, I want it to be the nice, sexy kind!

*drives steadily back to his house - he'd speed and fling the car round the corners like usual, except this time he's content to keep the car evenly paced. This has nothing to do with how Gene feels, if Sam asks - it's about not spilling the curry - honest...!*
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*Sam blinks once, before turning to look at Gene*

... you had to...?

*He doesn't remember... he'd completely blacked out, but now that Gene said it, he seems to remember... something....... but then, there's a sharp stinging in his chest and Sam grimaces, letting go of his fleeting memories.*
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*Gene keeps his eyes firmly on the road, realising his mistake. He's brought this whole thing back into Sam's mind again. But it doesn't even seem like Sam remembers it... But then, he was unconscious, wasn't he....

He shrugs, as though it's obvious*

S'what y'do when yer partner stops breathin'...
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...

*Sam turns his head back to look at the road before them, swallowing dryly. It makes sense, of course... but the reality of having heard Gene saying it is... well, it's something else. It makes Sam think about what Gene must have felt and gone through, in those moments.

Sam remains silent, staring ahead. He can't stop thinking about it now, about how Gene's been trying to crack jokes and keep things normal, keep Sam cheery... And all that when... when.........*
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*Sam's silence says it all, and Gene knows he's gotten his partner's brain thinking again. He needs to try and get Sam to think about something else... But Gene's own brain is stalling, chugging to a halt, and he can't think of how to distract Sam now.

It takes a minute of trying, but before he can think of anything they're pulling up in front of Gene's house.*

*pulls up the handbrake and then rubs his hand over his face, trying to wake himself up a bit*

Right... You okay to plate up when we're in? Think I need a drink.
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*somewhat absent-mindedly, Sam nods*

... yeah... yeah, sure.

*It's somewhat difficult with the bags in his lap, but eventually Sam manages to extract himself from his seat, stumbling once as he walks up to the front door of Gene's house. He can't stop thinking, can't...

Sam takes a sudden, deep breath, blinking as though he'd just woken up from a bad dream.*

... Gene, I--

*he breaks off immediately, not knowing what to say. "I'm sorry"? That would mean admitting to himself that everything that happened could have been avoided, had he followed Gene's orders.... and how would he be able to face himself in that case? He couldn't, simple as that.*

... nevermind.
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*Gene looks at Sam with a frown as his sentence dries up. What was Sam going to say...? He looks downhearted again. And Gene doesn't have the mental energy to try and work out what to say. Whether to pursue it or to let it be.

He follows Sam to the front door, locating the key, and then pauses. No. He needs to ask. If he doesn't, he'll just wish he had later.*

What were you goin' to say?
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*Sam blinks, then looks over to Gene. He's quite for a moment, but then he lowers his head, staring down at his boots.

There is something about Gene asking him a direct question that makes it impossible for Sam not to answer.*

*mutters, his voice slightly brittle* .... just wanted to apologise. didn't mean to--

* Didn't mean to go and nearly die. *
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*... Sam didn't mean to... Didn't mean to go in the river? Didn't mean to almost drown? There are many ways Sam could be about to finish that sentence, and the fact that he doesn't manage it says a lot.

Gene feels a tightness in his chest as he tries to formulate a response. What can he say? He knows Sam didn't mean to - of course he didn't. But it seems as though guilt is still lurking there within Sam, and that doesn't sit right with Gene. Of course he'll tell Sam it was stupid of him to go off on his own - but not now. Not while he's still clearly feeling effects from it.

So after a pause, Gene reaches out his hand and gently places it on Sam's shoulder.*

... I know you didn't.

*squeezes his shoulder, rubbing his thumb over fabric*

... Don't worry about that tonight. Tonight you're gonna get stuffed full of curry, warmed up with a hot toddy and get a good night's kip. Okay?
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*Sam tenses for a moment when Gene's hand lands on his shoulder, but then he deflates, only just keeping himself from leaning in and against Gene. He says that, but... Sam can't just forget.

Though that won't stop him from trying.

So Sam nods, swallowing hard and blinking away the burn in his eyes.*

... okay.
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Okay. *pats Sam on the shoulder once more, then reaches with his other hand to unlock the door and push it open.*

Now let's take this inside before we both freeze our knackers off, shall we?

*Somehow when Sam needs him, it's easier for Gene to push his own weird feelings aside - he's still bone tired, of course - but with the images of Sam wet and cold on the ground fresh in his head, his priority seems to be getting Sam inside and getting some food into him. He can deal with his own tiredness after that.*
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Sam Tyler
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Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Sam merely nods, letting out a small huff, before entering the house after Gene. He heads to the kitchen immediately, dumping the bags on the table and then leaning against it, exhaling hard.

Get your shit together, Sam. You're alive, not dead.

Taking a deep breath, Sam turns around, doing his best to get his voice to sound more upbeat than before*

Dinner in the kitchen or the lounge?
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Gene Hunt
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Detective Chief Inspector
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*Gene follows Sam closely as he heads down the hallway, but then suddenly he finds himself just a little off balance, one hand touching the wall as his head swims and feels light on his shoulders.

He stops walking, frowning at the floor*

Uhm... lounge.

*After a second or two he recovers, straightening up and letting his hand drop from the wall.

What the hell was that? Just tiredness, most likely... But still. He should sit down, make sure it doesn't happen again.

Not wanting Sam to get suspicious, Gene makes sure to clarify as he moves quickly into the lounge and sinks down onto the sofa*

Let's make it comfy, eh?
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Sam Tyler
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Gladys
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*Seeing that Gene didn't follow him into the kitchen, Sam glances back into the hallway, only just catching Gene pushing himself away from the wall and the moving over into the lounge.

What...?*

... sure.

*It's probably nothing... but Sam still finds himself strangelt anxious as he walks back into the kitchen, starting to get out the cutlery and plates - in case Gene doesn't want to eat out of the plastic bowls.

Probably nothing.... Hopefully nothing.

Armed with their dinner, Sam finally makes his way into the lounge, depositing Gene's share on the sofa table before sitting down with his own dinner.*
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Gene Hunt
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*Gene takes his plate and settles it in his lap, not looking as Sam as he picks up his knife and fork. The smell is enticing and mouth-watering... But still, he doesn't feel hungry in his stomach. He wants to eat, but his body's not as keen as his brain.

He pokes at it with his knife.*

So. Hungry, then?
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Sam Tyler
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Gladys
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Mmh. Moderately.

*Sam picks up a fork himself and takes a first bite, chewing at it thoroughly. He's not up to his usual strength yet either, and it's taking its toll on his system - his appetite definitely isn't what it could be. But that's fine; re-heated curry is just as delicious, and maybe even more so than on the first day.

But as Sam looks up and at Gene, his worry intensifies.*

You don't seem to be, though.
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