Welcome Guest [Log In] [Register]
Hello hello - this is just a small RP board for two fans who can't get enough of their favourite policing husbands. Plots involve canon-typical swearing and violence, and slash might occur later.

Hope you have fun reading along! :D

Username:   Password:
Locked Topic
Of Wolf and Man; Who let the dogs out, who, who, who?
Topic Started: Mar 12 2016, 06:14 PM (14,166 Views)
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Being a werewolf isn't easy. And neither is being under the thumb of a werewolf hunter. Someone who knows your secret and is only just barely holding back from tracking you down and putting a silver bullet between your eyes for the one reason that you're more valuable to him alive than dead. At the moment, anyway. And it's not like the relationship isn't mutually beneficial in some way. Even though Gene despises taking the money, he has no choice. It's live and live well with all the information he needs or die and end up someone's throw rug.

It's been this way for years, between Warren and Gene. It's routine. And so far Gene's fairly sure Warren's the only one who knows. His colleagues don't. They only know that he's unavailable for evening drinks once a month because of "wife commitments", though none of them have been brave enough to point out that they haven't seen his missus in years. Sam definitely doesn't know. It'd blow his little mind,considering how he's already a little peculiar.

But of course, like he always does, here's Sam bloody Tyler - his best mate, his right hand, his deputy dog - putting all of this at risk. He doesn't know the specific nature of the danger he's putting them both in, how could he. And Warren would never DO anything about it, he knows that Warren needs Gene too much. Having a DCI at your beck and call is nothing to throw away just because of some uppity little twerp rocking the boat. Right?? *
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Replies:
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Gene frowns at Sam, having to stop himself from raising his arm to feel at his forehead.*

Well you look sick enough.

*and then the tea... Gene can't have that.*

And stop drinking that. Lemme get you a new one at least.
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Sam pauses, turning back to Gene and looking utterly confused for a moment.

Then, slowly catching up, he quietly says*

... but... the mug's gonna be heavy...

*He's been making tea for Gene all this time, and the last thing Sam wants is for Gene to strain himself to the point of aggravating his injuries... he's only just begun to really heal...*
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*It's true - Gene hasn't tried to use the kettle since he came home. But he's going to have to try it some time...

And he's not going to sit here and watch Sam drink cold tea.

Determined, Gene pushes himself up and extends his arm as far as his stitches will allow to take the mug from Sam.*

I'll be careful. And anyway, count it as self-preservation. Watching you glug down cold crappy tea's going to give me a depression.

*now up on his feet, Gene starts towards the door.*

If you want anything else, nows the time to holler.
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*As Gene reaches out, Sam is momentarily torn between pulling the mug away, because he doesn't want Gene to go through the trouble of making him tea, and handing it over to stop him from stretching too far. The latter wins out in the end - not least because Gene himself takes the decision from Sam. He with somewhat owlish eyes as Gene levers himself up, watching without realising for any signs that he might need help after all.

But the truth is, Sam doesn't have it in him to protest right now, or even go make tea himself. He can feel the fever burning behind his eyes, skin feeling dry and a bit too tight. That sleep didn't help, then...

In response to Gene, Sam mumble*

S'alright, thanks...

*Once Gene is out of the room, Sam gives a low groan, rubbing his hands down his face. Bloody hell, he can't remember the last time he felt this crap (bar the time his face nearly got ripped off). Still, a few seconds later he heaves himself up and out of bed to go to the bathroom. He returns to the bedroom a few minutes later, crawling back under the duvet with a pulsing head. If this gets worse... what're they gonna do...? He'll have to convince Gene ask Annie to come over... or maybe the hospital could send a nurse...

"... nurse... get the..."

Sam turns his head towards the radio. Did he just hear static...?

"... temperature's rising... it's --ting dangero--...."

... what...? Sam moves slowly, leaning over to be as close to the radio as he can.

"--is last chance. If this procedure doesn't rouse him.... nothing will."*

.... wh-what?

*For a moment, the heat within Sam seems to recede, leaving a pool of cold fear in the pit of his stomach.

"Sam... --need you... --ake up. It's up to y--"

"... let's begin."

Another wave of static, then soft music. It's over. Sam is left half sitting up, leaning towards the radio and staring at it as though he can will it to talk to him again.

What the hell was that...?! He hasn't heard the doctors in so long, and now... this...?!

His last chance...?

If he doesn't wake up, he...

...

It takes Sam a few seconds to realise that the thought scares him for a reason he would never have had a month ago.

If he wakes up, it means he'll leave Gene. And that thought scares him even more. He doesn't know what to do with it. He wants to go home, he does--

... or does he?*
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Gene does indeed take it easy as he prepares Sam's tea - only filling the kettle to the absolute minimum to reduce weight, lifting with only his elbow rather than his entire arm.... It's a bit of a pain, both figuratively and literally, but after a long, slow process... Tea. Gene adds milk and stirs before slowly making his way back up the stairs, one hand gripping the bannister and the other desperately trying not to spill with his clunky, stiff footsteps.

With no idea about Sam's interaction with the radio, he clumsily nudges the door back open and approaches Sam's bedside.*

'Ere you go. Can't promise you half of it didn't end up on the stairs, but you've got at least half a hot cup of tea.
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Gene enters only seconds after the hospital voices recede back into more or less pleasant music on 1970s BBC radio, Sam still leaning in as though he's about to grab hold of it. He flinches when Gene speaks, staring at him with wide eyes, face paler than before.

For a moment, Sam is tempted to ask Gene whether he heard any of that. But he quickly decides that would be stupid - he wasn't even in the room at the time. And if he tells Gene about it, he'll think it was a fever dream... Or worse.

So Sam forces himself to sit back and say*

Oh-- cheers.

*He extends his hands to take the mug, worry for Gene's condition quickly overtaking the sickening swirl of conflicting emotions within him - and isn't that just the strangest thing. Gene, rooting him in the present, providing relief.*

Did, uh, did it go alright? You didn't... Pull anything?
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Gene looks between Sam and the radio. The way he's leaning over it, face pale and eyes wide... It's like he's seen a ghost.

Gene can't help frowning, watching Sam carefully as his friend leans back and takes the mug from him. It feels as though he's just interrupted something, but he has no idea what.*

Yeah, no tea-related disasters.

*and then, since he can't not ask, he nods at the radio.*

What was that? You hear the news that there's a stationary shortage or something?
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Shit, of course Gene would notice. And Sam's brain, already struggling to come up with believable excuses on good days, is too sluggish by far to come up with something convincing right now. So Sam stares back at Gene like a deer caught in the headlights for a moment, before lowering his gaze quickly to the mug he's clutching like it's an anchor.*

... uhm. Just thought I... heard something. Important.

*Sam's hands clutch tighter for a moment before letting up again.*

D-doesn't matter. I was wrong.
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Sam's story doesn't quite sound right to Gene.... But he can't put his finger on what part is most suspicious. Maybe it's just the fever... Though that in itself is worrying.

Trying to hide his concern, Gene huffs.*

What's new.

*Then, because he can't hold back any more, Gene clicks his fingers to get Sam's attention.*

Oi. Look at me?
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Sam barely has time to register relief over the fact that Gene's letting it go, when the little click and his words make him look up again before he can think about it twice.

Gene is sitting just a few inches away from him... on the surface, he looks irritated, but something tells Sam there's more behind that expression. And Sam is very aware of the fact that by rights, their roles should be reversed. Gene shouldn't have to look after him... and Sam shouldn't be sat here, eyes drooping slightly from the rising fever.

He looks back at Gene wordlessly, caught in the other's assessing gaze.*
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Once Sam's looking at him, Gene leans in and grits his teeth, raising his arm to place his hand against Sam's forehead.

If he was really thinking, he'd probably feel embarrassed at having done it. But concern for Sam overrides all things right now. And the warmth he feels there doesn't alleviate that concern at all.*

... You could fry an egg on there... Need to take your temperature properly, I reckon. Make sure you're not going to explode.
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Sam blinks as Gene reaches out, and again as his hand comes to rest against his forehead. Gene's hand almost feels cold in contrast to the heat radiating from his own skin, and Sam finds himself leaning into it, pressing his head against Gene's palm.

He wants to tell Gene he's fine... but Sam knows he isn't, and he knows that Gene is right. This is getting worrying. So Sam just makes a small "mmh" sound.*
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*At Sam's noise of agreement, Gene huffs a noise of dissatisfaction back. It's not right. Not right for Sam to be so quiet.

Hand still in place, Gene mutters, both to Sam and himself.*

... Maybe you shouldn't drink that tea after all. Would somethin' cold be better...?
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*It takes Sam a second or two to react, but when he does he shales his head gingerly, muttering*

... Body needs to stay warm. I cool down, fever goes up.

*Still,he makes no move to drink the tea just yet - the sensation of Gene's hand still resting against his for head is distracting.

Comforting.*
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Gene raises an eyebrow - that doesn't make sense in his mind, but if Sam says it it must be true.

Unable to keep his arm raised any longer, Gene drops his hand away regretfully.*

If that makes sense in your own head then okay.

Think you need a doctor or something...?
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*As Gene drops his hand, Sam goes with the motion unconsciously, leaning in - though he stops himself before he topples over. A doctor... There's enough doctors tinkering with his body already...!

So Sam shakes his head.*

... Might blow over.

*Then, finally, he raises the mug to his lips, taking a few ginger sips. Despite his head already feeling unnaturally hot, the warm liquid feels good, going down his throat and soothing his insides in the process. Sam exhales, his eyes slipping shut, giving into the burning sensation behind them.*
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Gene's heart hurts at the sight of Sam so beaten down. Awkwardly, he watches without a clue what to do.*

.... Maybe. But if not I'm getting the doc over. And I'll make sure he brings the extra long thermometer!
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Sam doesn't quite know why, but Gene's words make him smile. He takes another few sips of his tea before opening his eyes again, waiting for them to focus on Gene sitting next to him, worry clear in his expression. The sight reminds Sam of the fact that it's still Gene who's the really injured one out of the two of them... He should be resting.

And that reminds Sam... He lowers the mug down into his lap again, chewing on his words a bit. He knows that Gene will insist he stay in bed, but Sam still has a duty of care, fever or not.*

... you'll tell me when you get hungry, yeah?

*Knowing that Gene will protest, Sam blinks against the fever-burn and continues*

There's soup from yesterday in the fridge... I can heat that up...
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Gene blinks. Sam should know by now that Gene's not going to let him get up and exert himself.*

Pfft. You think you're getting up and faffing about with pits and pans? You get up and I'm kicking your arse back to bed!
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*This time, Sam doesn't smile - he frowns instead.*

You shouldn't overdo it... your saucepans are heavy...

*He can get up for a few minutes to make lunch for Gene... and if he feels a bit faint afterwards, that's still better than Gene accidentally re-opening the cuts on his arms...!*
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
Then I'll... Have it like gazpacho. Sounds fancy.

*Gene can't in good conscience make Sam Cook for him today. Not while he's feeling like this. Sam's welcome to do so, but Gene's not going to ask him to. More than anything he just wants Sam to be okay...

And speaking of, Sam probably ought to get some more rest. Or they really will have to call a doctor...

Gene pats Sam's knee and then pushes himself up. He'd like to stay and keep an eye on Sam... But if he's there, he might just distract him and keep him awake. Better to let him sleep in peace.... *

I'll let you get some more shut eye. You need anything just scream like a banshee. Okay?
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Before Sam is able to protest, Gene pushes himself up. More sleep... as if those words triggered it, Sam suddenly feels even more tired than he did before, the fever pressing down on his eyelids. His body is loudly demanding rest, and even though the need to look after Gene is still nagging him, Sam finds himself nodding.*

... okay.

*But he can't help but add*

Don't... overexert yourself. Please.
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Gene gives Sam a shrug. He can promise Sam, but if he knows Sam's sleeping there's no way he's going to bother him. The best thing is for Sam to recuperate completely.

So as he backs out of the room and pulls the door to the jar, Gene says in a hushed voice.*

Stop worrying your pretty little head and get some kip. I'll just be downstairs.
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Gene leaves Sam with little choice - he can't deny the fact that he's still tired, his eyes doing their best to fall shut again... So he makes a "mmh" noise, just as Gene disappears from view.

... So now he's alone again...

Suddenly, Sam realises that he doesn't want to be alone. He wants Gene there. He doesn't want to face this heat, and whatever the doctors are doing to his future self, all on his own...

But Gene is gone now, making his way down the stairs... Sam can't call him back.

To calm his hammering heart, Sam takes another few sips of his tea before setting the mug aside and shuffling down into a lying position again. He has to sleep, his body demands it, even if his kind balks at the thought...

And soon enough, the fever pulls Sam under again.

This time, his sleep isn't peaceful. Images are swirling through his fevered mind, becoming more vivid as the temperature rises. Sam begins to toss and turn, inadvertently wrapping himself up more tightly in the duvet. Sweat is beading on his forehead, which he's pulled into an anguished frown - he's back in the basement... The scenes keep switching between what happened, and what he dreamed the night before, until finally, his mind settles on the nightmare version again.

Sam groans, muttering something unintelligible as he presses his face into the pillow.*
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*It pains Gene to leave Sam alone - but he knows it's for the best. Reluctantly he turns and makes his way downstairs. Without Sam there to help there isn't much he feels safe doing on his own, and drinking again clearly isn't on the cards so he does all he can do - sits and watches TV for a few hours, snoozing in the chair.

When he wakes up the news has just finished, the closing theme having kicked him into the land of the living. And immediately he only has one thought.

Did Sam wake up? Is he still asleep?

Stiffly, Gene pushes himself up and after a few minutes finds himself pushing the bedroom door open slowly, his gaze settling on the bed.*

....?
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Sam's laboured breathing is easily audible where Gene is standing, as are the small sounds of distress. Sam shifts abruptly, turning away from the door. There's more motion underneath the blanket as Sam moves his arms, his hands, as if trying to push something, or someone, away - but the duvet is restricting his movements.

The weight of the pelt is restricting his movements. It sits on his shoulders heavily, blood and viscera weighing it down even further. Sam can see the fluids dripping down in front of his eyes, the smell of it all turning his stomach. It presses down, as though Gene is still somehow inhabiting it and is now trying to suffocate Sam with everything he has left.

"Feel like a king yet?"

Sam sobs, words eluding him.*
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Gene's heart drops immediately.

It's happening again...!!

He can't let Sam get into the same state as before... God, not again...!

Face pale suddenly, Gene rushes to Sam's bedside and places a hand on the duvet, starting to pull it away from the body underneath.*

Sam! Sam, wake up!

Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Genes voice doesn't register - Sam is caught too deep in this nightmare, the fever laying an additional haze over his mind. As Gene pulls the duvet away, Sam all but flinches away from his touch. It's Warren's touch he feels, adjusting the pelt on his shoulders, murmuring into his ear that he needs to wake up, there's more to come, they aren't done yet...

Another broken sob tears itself from Sam's chest and he moans, his lips not quite forming words.*
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*That moan... Sam sounds so distressed... Shit...

Gene can almost see Sam on his knees again, throwing up onto the carpet...

Using both hands now, Gene pulls the duvet down and completely off of Sam's torso.*

Sam!

*he takes Sam by the shoulders and gives him as much of a shake as he can with his own weakened muscles*

You're dreaming! Again! Wake up!
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Whether it's the direct touch, the shake, or both combined - it does the trick. Sam is pulled out of the nightmare so suddenly that gasps raggedly, eyes flying open, but not seeing Gene. It's too sudden, his mind can't tell what's going on, where he is - his body still feels sticky and heavy, his head is burning, his stomach rebelling against this perceived abrupt change...

Sam curls up in his side, shuddering under Gene's grasp, and starts gagging, one hand clawing into the sheets underneath. Nothing comes up, but that doesn't stop Sam from convulsing with horror.*
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Shit. SHIT.

Gene grunts as he places one knee on the bed and leans over Sam, both hands clinging to his clammy pyjamas.*

Sam, s'okay... S'okay... It's not real. There's no pelt on you, it's still on me, okay??

*after last time, Gene's sure he knows what Sam's visualising - and he's got to nip it in the bud now, beside Sam's dry heaves become something more traumatic...! *
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*It's the sound of Gene's voice rather than the actual words that cut through the thick haze. The voice Sam was so desperate to hear, the voice he thought he'd never hear again.

Sam heaves a few more times, but finally, the gagging becomes weak coughing, which then peters out into heavy, gasping breaths. He's still shaking under Gene's palms, eyes squeezed shut from the exertion, face damp with sweat and tears.

It takes a little while longer before Sam actually becomes aware of his surroundings, and the gentle pressure, holding him in place. Heart racing, he forces his eyes open and blinks up at Gene - but he can't actually see, his vision is too blurry.....

... but it... it has to be Gene.... it has to... right.......?

Sam's lips move, but it takes him a few seconds to actually find his voice. When he does, it sounds entirely broken up.*

.... Gene...?
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*heart pounding in his chest, Gene keeps holding onto Sam tightly. He's not letting go - he needs Sam to know he's there. To feel it.*

Yeah, s'me - you're in my house, alright? Nobody's gettin' you here.

*God, what's Sam seen this time? The same as last night? How far did it get? Did he manage to wake Sam up in time..?*
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Sam stares up at Gene blearily, drinking in the sound of his voice, the sensation of Gene's hands firmly holding onto him.

It is Gene.... Sam is in his house... in a bed... Gene is alive, he's alive...

Sam can feel his eyes fill with tears, and before he can even attempt to hold them back, they spill over. They are tears of shock, but also of utter relief. The night before, once Sam was able to think clearly again, embarrassment overpowered him so quickly that he managed to hold back those remnants of the nightmare. But now, with the fever already pressing down on his head, there is no such filter.*

... oh thank g-god...!

*Sam presses one hand against his face, curling up further with the sheer force of emotions washing over him.*
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*If Gene wasn't so focused on those tears rolling down Sam's face, he'd feel his heart shatter. Seeing him like this, curled in on himself, crying... It hurts more than anything else.*

'Ey... C'mon, it's okay. You're okay.

*With the cuts down his front and arms still not completely healed, Gene has to hold himself back. He wants to grab onto Sam and hold him tight, hug him to his chest and wrap his arms around him... But again, he can't. All he can do is hang onto him with his hands, press his leg against him, sat next to him on the bed...

... There's nothing else he can do, at least physically.*

Sam... Stop... Stop cryin', eh? You're gonna get the sheets all wet.
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Gene's voice above him, soft and soothing... his hands, still holding on, not letting go... Even with his eyes closed, Sam can feel the man's bulk next to him, like an anchor that's keeping him rooted in the here and now. After the horrors of that nightmare, so soon after the first one, Sam has no defenses left, no way of coping other than lying on this bed, shaking and crying. However, the fact that Gene is here, helping him through this and not leaving Sam to it... that's invaluable.

Tears still rolling, Sam reaches out with his other hand, blindly grabbing onto Gene's knee and holding on. He can't stop himself crying, not with the relief and hellish images still so strong and present - but feeling the fabric of Gene's trousers, and the flesh and muscles underneath that, helps to slowly shake off the terror and grief left over from the nightmare.*
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Gene can't help his own eyes starting to feel hot as Sam sobs and grabs into his leg. This has done so much damage to Sam... And honestly? If Gene let himself think about it properly, he'd be tempted to burst into tears as well. But not now, he can't right now. Sam is sick, overwhelmed by illness and nightmares. Now isn't the time to break that dam.

So Gene continues to hold Sam as best as he can, providing support to the best of his ability. It isn't enough, it'll never be enough. But he's got to try... *
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*It takes a little while, but finally, Sam calms down enough to try and pull himself together. His head feels incredibly hot, even more so now that he's been crying... He knows he must have been asleep for a while but Sam feels even more exhausted now than he did before. Gene's hands feel both hot and cold against the clammy fabric of his pyjama shirt.

Taking a shaky breath, Sam wipes across his eyes with the back of his free hand before blinking his eyes open to look at Gene. The colours around him seem all off, too bright and saturated, but at least he's able to see Gene's face... God, Gene. Sam can't tell how real this is - nothing feels completely real right now - but Sam can't help but give in to the urge to cling to this reality, where Gene is kneeling over him, his face close, holding onto Sam as though he's just prevented him from drowning (and in a way, he has).

Before he can stop himself, Sam whispers brokenly, emotions threatening to overwhelm him once more*

.... m'so glad you're alive...!
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Once again, Gene feels his heart break. Sam.... Sam shouldn't need to be glad... None of this should have happened... Not to Sam, and not to Gene himself. None of this should have happened.

Gene's voice breaks as he replies, emotions welling up inside him. Seeing Sam cry like this, so happy that Gene's still here and alive... It's heartwrenching.

Needing to say something funny or else he'll cry himself, Gene huffs a strained laugh.*

S'funny... Just a few weeks ago you wanted to kill me...!
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Sam grimaces at Gene's words, caught somewhere between a smile and genuine regret. While he knows what Gene is saying is true, right now Sam can barely imagine it. The fever is burning through him, and with it a growing conflict - he's being pulled away from all of this, Sam can feel it, but he doesn't want to go. He can't leave Gene, and the thought of Gene just disappearing... No, it can't happen... But...!

God, his head feels like it's too small for his brain. Sam blinks against the burning in his eyes, then squeezes them shut entirely. He's trying to figure out why Gene's voice has gone strained and strange, but any attempt at stringing proper thoughts together results in a hot, flaring headache. His grip on Gene slackens, but Sam refuses to let go entirely - he needs the contact, he needs to feel Gene... needs to know he's there...*
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*that grimace - the slight slackening of Sam's grip... He's in pain, Gene can feel it. And while Gene wishes he wasn't, it gives him something he can focus on. Something he can fix. *

'Ey... I'll bring you up some paracetamol, okay? See is we can get this fever down a bit...

*He doesn't move yet though. Not until Sam agrees. Leaving Sam for even a short time feels wrong right now, but he's driven by the urge to help. To do anything he can to help stop some of Sam's suffering, whether emotional or physical... *
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Paracetamol... that sounds logical. That sounds like it could help. Anything to quench the fire burning through his head at least a little is welcome right now.

So Sam nods... but then, almost immediately, he makes the effort to grab onto Gene a bit tighter again, opening his eyes as fear suddenly shoots through him. What if Gene walks through that door and just... disappears...!*

Y-you'll be back. Yeah?
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*the fear in Sam's eyes as he tightens his grip... It hammers home how wrong this. How scared Sam is. Gene claps his hand gently down over Sam's and squeezes with the little strength he has.*

'Course. Gonna take a nap up here, aren't I. Could do with one.

*and of course, he wants to keep Sam company. Be there in case this happens again... *
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Sam's hand twitches as Gene's comes to rest on it, but he doesn't pull away - to the contrary, the sensation is a welcome one. Gene's hand feels real, even more so now that it's touching Sam's bare skin.

He holds Gene's gaze, searching his expression for something he can't name. Gene seems honest. He'll come back. He will come back...

Finally, Sam nods once more.*

O-okay.

*But he still doesn't withdraw his hand.*
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
Okay.

*reluctantly Gene releases Sam's hand and pushes himself up. He wants to get this done quickly.

And there's something else*

Look, uh... I know paracetamol'll help, but with the state you're in... Maybe I should call a doctor. 'Specially after all the nightmares and that...?
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Sam relaxes back into the sheets as Gene gets up, suddenly feeling exhausted. He's just getting paracetamol.... he'll be back... just a few minutes...

But then, that suggestion. Sam's eyes widen slightly. A doctor...

Deep down, Sam knows that this fever isn't something a doctor here, or even a pill of paracetamol can fix. As if to confirm, the burning in his head intensifies until it becomes a dull, persistent headache, causing Sam to inhale sharply and squeeze his eyes shut for a moment.

But if Sam declines, Gene will either call a doctor anyway, or worry. And Sam can't stand the thought of Gene worrying more than he already is.

So, cracking his eyes open again, Sam nods.*

... 'kay.
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*An agreement... That's something Gene wasn't expecting. It's worrying and comforting all at the same time.

He nods.*

Alright. I'll give 'em a call.

*And with that he turns and makes his way out of the room. The sooner he gets these things done the sooner he can come back to Sam and try to keep him from dreaming again. Though he doubts that Sam's going to sleep again before he comes back anyway - the man looks done in enough from the last nightmare to keep him awake for hours.

First Gene calls the doctor, searching through the Yellow Pages to find the local GP. A short conversation later and Gene's hanging up with the knowledge that someone's going to come over. Sam won't be left unchecked. That's a good thing.

He gathers up some paracetamol and a small glass of water, slowly taking the stairs back up to Sam's bedside.*

'Ere. Take these. Doc said he'd be along as soon as 'e can.
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*As Gene leaves the room, Sam realises that he needs to use the bathroom. He heaves himself up with difficulties, his head feeling light and dizzy... but he soldiers on, slowly making his way over to the bathroom, keeping his hands on the walls at all time. His head hasn't stopped hurting, dull pain pulsing behind his eyes, and he feels so thirsty...

Sam doesn't stay in the bathroom long - just enough to use the loo and stick his head under a stream of cold water. It feels so much like last night that for a moment, he's confused - is it night, or day? Where's Gene....?

Then he remembers, and gives a low groan. He isn't used to feeling like this... He was disorientated during his first days and weeks here, but at least his head was clear. Now, Sam can't trust what he hears, can't trust what he sees... can't trust that the room won't just disappear around him, leaving him floating in empty space...

They're operating on him... but are they? Is all this really just a figment of his imagination? Is Gene...?

The image of Gene, strung up, bleeding from all those cuts flashes through Sam's mind, and he squeezes his eyes shut. It feels wrong - to assume for even one moment that Gene's pain wasn't real. That he didn't suffer through all of this. If Sam made all of this up, then he did this to Gene... And Sam would never do that. He could never...

His head feeling even lighter than before, Sam stumbles back into the master bedroom, hearing Gene's voice, muffled and from far away. He needs to get a grip... and keep that grip, on this reality. He can't have all of this fall away too. Waking up to find the last few weeks had just been a dream... Sam can't face it... He needs to make an effort. He needs to stay in the here and now, stay awake... If he falls asleep again, who knows where he'll end up... some place where Gene died, or some place where he doesn't exists at all......!

So when Gene comes in, he'll find that Sam propped up a few pillows to help him sit up against them, as much as Sam would like to just lie down. He blinks up at Gene, needing to process what he's seeing for a moment before he reaches out to take the glass and painkiller off him.*

Ta...
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Unaware of Sam's thoughts, Gene hands the water and pills over. Sam seems sluggish... Like he's having to take a few extra seconds to process everything... Suddenly Gene feels a lot more justified in calling the doctor.

Watching Sam, Gene fidgets a little. He wants to lie down next to Sam and have that nap. Watch over Sam as he sleeps, make sure that nothing else happens. But he'd better stay awake for now. He'll need to answer the door before long.

So he just keeps his eyes on Sam, on his pale face.*

...You look like shite.
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Sam pops the pills into his mouth and swallows them down under Gene's watchful eye - and he's aware of Gene's gaze, as though it adds an extra degree of heat to what is already raging through him. The cool water going down his throat feels heavenly as much as it almost hurts, and Sam grimaces slightly as he sets the glass down to look over at Gene.

He looks like shite? He feels like it too. However, there's enough of his self still left in him for Sam to murmur*

M'not surprised.

*Then, because he can't resist the temptation any longer, Sam lifts the now half-empty glass and presses it against his cheek, closing his eyes with a soft hum at the sensation. God, that feels good...*
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*seeing Sam raise the glass to his skin makes Gene wish there was more he could do. He hopes the doctor will give them some advice, but for right now Gene doesn't know what to do. Warm Sam up? Cool him down?

He grunts, frustrated.*

Oi. C'mere...

*resting on one knee to keep his height up (therefore reducing strain on his arms), Gene shifts onto the edge of the bed and reaches for Sam's neck.

Gently he feels around under Sam's jaw at either side, trying to feel for any swelling.*

..... Don't think your glands are up....
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Sam opens his eyes just in time to see Gene reach out, and then his breath catches as Gene's hands touch his skin - practically cradling his jaw.

The last person to touch him there was... Warren. But this, right now, is so different, that the thought quickly disappears from Sam's mind. Gene's touch is soothing in a way that's similar to the cool glass against his skin, and at the same time completely different.

Sam swallows against Gene's fingers. He should stay still, let Gene finish his examination; however, Sam finds himself leaning into the touch instead, trying to prolong Gene pulling back as far as possible. He needs this. God, how he needs it. Something to keep him grounded. No, not just something--

He needs Gene.

Sam makes a small sound in the back of his throat, though he isn't quite sure if he's agreeing with Gene or just giving voice to all the strange emotions swirling within him.*
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Gene feels the way Sam leans into his touch, and though his examination is finished, he can't quite make himself pull away. Not just yet. So he lets his hands linger there, cupping the edges of Sam's jaw for a few moments longer. He can feel Sam's pulse beating away under the skin - the warmth of his body heat, the thrum of life.

And for a moment Gene is mesmerised, a swell of something unidentifiable swirling in his heart.

After too long though, he realises what he's doing and pulls away with a hint of embarrassment. Jesus, what is he doing?

Composing himself, Gene adjusts his posture and sits down properly on the bed. Act casual, Gene, that's it... *

You hungry or anything?
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*The moment extends, the sensation of Gene's fingers so close to his jugular slowly beginning to uncoil a knot of tension within Sam that he hadn't even realised was there until that point. His gaze is caught by Gene's, by those green eyes, over-saturated like everything else in Sam's field of vision at the moment... but they seem to burn even brighter than the rest. He wants this to last forever - and he wants more. He wants to feel Gene's palm against his cheek, the bulk of his body against Sam, he wants--

Gene pulls back. As if ripped out of a trance, Sam sucks in a startled breath. His instincts are telling him to reach out, to catch Gene's hand, and his fingers twitch with the urge - but no. There still is a shred of insecurity, of inhibition left that hasn't been burnt away by the fever. Still, Sam's skin almost aches with the loss of contact, and the disappointment must show in his expression as well.

It takes Sam a few moments to recover and process what Gene just asked - he's trying to puzzle out whether Gene is feeling ashamed of what he did, whether there's any chance that he felt the same sense of longing and connection as Sam - but when he finally does, he shakes his head. Eating is the last thing he wants to do right now... And besides, there is no way Gene could cook something for him and carry it upstairs. Even ordering takeaway would pose too many problems.*
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*That's a no then... Sam's going to have to keep eating though.... He needs to keep his strength up. Maybe in the evening.*

Okay. Doc won't be here for a while... You wanna get some kip while we wait?

*Gene should really go downstairs to wait - it still takes a little while to get down the stairs. But despite knowing the door bell's going to go in a bit he's not willing to leave Sam alone.*
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Sleep? The thought fills Sam with dread, his muscles growing tense even as he processes it. Before he knows it, Sam shakes his head again, the word coming out forceful and rushed*

N-no.

*And if he sleeps it'll give Gene an excuse to leave again... He can't bear the thought. Not being able to see Gene, not hearing what he's doing, he'll lose what little connection remains to this world, it'll slip through his grasp, and he'll...!*

*beyond the point of censoring himself, Sam stammers*

Don't... D-don't leave me.
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
!!!

*Shit... No, he didn't mean--*

No, Sam... Sam, I'm not... I'm not leavin' you.. I'll stay up here, okay?

*to make his point, Gene slides himself further onto the bed.*

I'll stay up here.
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*His heart beating painfully hard in his chest, Sam watches as Gene shuffles further onto the bed. He's staying... Staying here...

Suddenly, it strikes Sam just how pathetic he sounded - how much he just revealed. The fact that Gene hasn't gotten up and walked away in disgust is a miracle in and of itself, causing an odd fluttering sensation in his stomach.

Sam lowers his gaze with both a sense of humiliation and gratitude, his hands fidgeting slightly with the glass he's still holding. He murmurs*

....thanks.

*A beat, then Sam adds quietly*

I-I don't want to sleep.

*Sleeping means dreaming... Or... Or waking up somewhere else... And he can't face that, not right now... Why won't they give him a bit more time...?!*
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*not wanting to stress Sam out any more, Gene awkwardly tries to position himself next to Sam on the bed, sat up against the pillows alongside him.

Sam really should sleep... But he can't force him. Not when his aim right now is to keep Sam calm. He's sick as a dog - the last thing Gene wants is to make Sam worse.*

Alright then. Promise not to slip you any sleeping pills.

..... D'you wanna just... Talk then, or...?

*offering to talk is probably dangerous... But talking helped Sam last time... Maybe it'll help again...? *
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*God, seeing Gene settle down next to him is so comforting that for a moment, it leaves Sam feeling somewhat unsettled. Something about this nightmare, set loose by all the feelings he'd repressed in the last few weeks, has basically amplified his emotions, and the fever isn't helping either.

Talking, though... Sam doesn't trust himself right now. He doesn't want Gene to think he's weak and dependent on his affection. And at the same time, he wants nothing more but to finally give voice to the feelings that have been growing and growing, that he knows can mean only one thing...

... But he can't. That last threshold... It seems impossible to scale.

... On The other hand, talking might keep him from falling asleep at least a little while longer... Until the doctor arrives...

Sam chews on his lips for a moment, before nodding and then tentatively asking*

... Are you... I mean, y-you didn't... hurt yourself earlier, right? When...

*He gestures, indicating that Gene had to contort somewhat in order to wake Sam up and calm him down.*
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*That's what Sam's worried about? Gene huffs a chuckle, shaking his head.*

Naah. Made of iron aren't I.

S'you that's falling to bits, not me.
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*"Falling to bits"? That's so accurate that Sam gives a huff as well, half amused and half pained, his grip on the glass tightening for a moment as his headache spikes. He takes a few more sips, before muttering*

... should be me lookin' after you... not the other way 'round.

*And really, it should be neither of them having to look after each other. But as it stands, Gene went through much, much worse... And now here Sam is, reduced to a feverish mess by a nightmare. He should be stronger than this... He should be supporting Gene.*
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Gene snorts, trying to keep the mood light.*

You've done enough of that to last a bloody lifetime. Thought you'd have been sick to the back teeth o'me by now.

*And then Gene pauses, reminded once again. Sick.. Sam on his knees, throwing up in his hallway, racked with panic and confusion...

It's very clear which way Sam's dream was going when Gene interrupted. But he needs to make sure... Just in case. What if it was something else? What if there's something Sam isn't telling him? If this version of events played out differently to before, Gene needs to know.*

.... Same thing, then? Your dream? Same as before?
Edited by Gene Hunt, Mar 2 2017, 10:27 PM.
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*There's an odd swell of affection and gratitude within Sam at Gene's words - it's as though he's just acknowledged and thanked Sam for his help. But before he can deny being sick of Gene, there's that question.

Sam hesitates for a moment, not knowing what to do. He doesn't want Gene to have to think about this... His death was a prominent feature of the dream, after all.

But he can't lie, not with the fever practically boiling his brain. So Sam takes a breath and nods. The pelt had been on his shoulders, heavy and dripping with fluids... The smell indescribable... And Warren's voice, vibrating through him...

Sam shudders, taking a breath to try and steady himself.*

... It.... It felt so real...
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*The change in Sam's demeanour makes Gene pay attention. If he's not careful he'll send Sam back there, mentally. And if he's not careful, he might very well go back there too. But the fact that the both of them went through this, albeit with slightly different experiences... It feels like they can share this.

And its suddenly clear that offering to talk was the right thing for sure.

He grunts in acknowledgement, searching for the next question. And after a careful moment, Gene asks.*

.... What did?
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Again, the word slips out before Sam can stop himself.*

Everything.

*He pauses, both taken aback by his own honest admission and struggling to continue. Gene's careful questions are breaking through Sam's already crumbling defenses, with the fever doing the rest. He doesn't want Gene to hear this, but at the same time, he's desperate to get it out - for it to not just be in his head. Gene knows about the rape, but he doesn't know what happened after that...*

... y-you died, watching--.......

...he took his time with... with the...

*Sam makes a motion to indicate the cutting, his hand shaking slightly.*

.... I couldn't... look away. And when he put the-- p-pelt on me, I could....

*He shudders again, more violently this time, but soldiers on nonetheless-- now that he's started, he has to get it out.*

... i-it was so heavy. And... wet. On m-my shoulders and back and... a-and over my head.......

*And all the while, Gene's sightless eyes had been staring at him.... Sam's head throbs with pain as he stares down at his lap, the fever making the glass and his hands appear both tiny and unnaturally large.
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Gene swallows, feeling the emotion coming from Sam, like a pressure in the air. It sounds horrific.... And it's something he's played through in his head over and over. Not just with Warren - with multiple hunters, different scenarios... It's something he's always assumed would happen to him at some point. The fact that he narrowly avoided it this time is incredible.*

...You couldn't look away... 'cos he made you watch?
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*It may not seem like it, but Sam is trying very hard to maintain a grip on reality - on the fact that he's sat in bed, with Gene next to him, and not anywhere else. However, it's a fight he's quickly losing, as he recalls the sticky, clinging sensation of the fur coat draped over him... And the sight of the wolf's carcass, staring at him accusingly...

Gene's question pulls Sam out of it slightly, and he half turns his head - not quite looking at him, his eyes going off into the distance, but also not entirely lost in the fever and the nightmare. Sam has to think about this, actually think: why couldn't he look away?

After a few seconds, Sam haltingly says*

.... I... Just couldn't. I was still... Tied to that chair... A-and you-- it--

*Sam grimaces and swallows, trying again*

... It was happening right in front of me. And I just... I couldn't turn my head. C-couldnt close my eyes.

*He remembers that feeling of horror so abject that it turned it that vast black emptiness within him, swallowing any other emotions. Sam had lost control over himself at that point. Even recalling it, Sam can feel it creeping back, getting ready to take over...

His heartbeat quickens, and his hand gives a twitch, following the urge to reach out for Gene ---

But Sam stops himself, just before the gesture can really give away his intention. At least, he hopes he stops himself in time. He can't tell.*
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*jaw gritted, Gene tries to keep his expression neutral. Sam saw all of it. Gene's imagined the actual skinning many times over the years, but always from his own point of view. It's always happening TO him. He's not thought about how it would be to watch it happening. He never thought anyone would be there. In his mind, he'd always assumed he'd be alone when the time came. Viewing it from the outside...*

Christ. It... Must 'ave looked...

*He shakes his head, unable to fully imagine it. The sight of his own body, all muscle and blood. Naked in a whole different way.

For a moment, Gene can't help himself imagining seeing Sam that way. But he has to force himself to stop, for his own sake.

The twitch of Sam's hand doesn't escape Gene's attention - but he can't react to it... Not while his own mind is going round in circles*

Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*It must 'ave looked....

Gene doesn't finish the sentence, and Sam is almost glad for it. He saw it, twice now - he doesn't want to describe to to Gene. It didn't happen, but it's still about him, and however much Sam is hurting, unable to tear himself away from what could have been, he doesn't want to put Gene through the same thing.

And to some extent, Sam understands that this is something Gene must have lived with since he got bitten - the possibility of someone coming along and trying to get him, to kill him for the worth of his skin. It's too horrible a thought. And glancing over at Gene, Sam can see that his friend, must be going down that route as well, imagining it... the deep cuts, the skin peeling away...

Following the need to get them both away from that particular image, Sam lowers his gaze again and says*

... at least you-- in the dream, you didn't... feel any of it. You were... you were dead already s-so you, y-you c-couldn't-- --!

*Sam chokes up suddenly, the meaning of the words he just uttered hitting him unexpectedly hard; so much so, that tears begin dripping down his face - tears of shock, and of genuine, sudden grief.*
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*At the sight of Sam's fresh tears Gene has to react. His arm moves of its own accord, his hand clamping itself over Sam's knee in a gesture of support. He knows what Sam's trying to say - at least Gene didn't feel it. And that makes a change. In Gene's worst nightmares he always feels it, without fail.

Voice thin, his own imagination suffering at the images,*

... Well.... That's somethin', eh....?
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Gene's touch startles Sam and he raises his head slightly, tensing as if to try and move away - but then, he realises what's happening, and that sets off an entirely different set of emotions, mixing with the horror, the grief. Sam finds himself reaching out to place his slightly shaking hand over Gene's, holding on with that little strength he has right now. It's just like before - Gene has become his anchor, keeping him where he's safe.

The tears continue falling, even as Sam tries to get a grip on himself... But with all the other horrors he witnessed and went through in that nightmare, it's as if the fact that Gene had died is only now properly registering. And the fever is doing its part as well, distorting and amplifying all those fears, those repressed memories and feelings...

After a few seconds, Sam begins to scrub at his face almost angrily. He doesn't let go of Gene's hand, though - no matter how vulnerable and embarrassed he feels right now, he can't give up that lifeline.

Still, his voice sounds strained as he chokes out*

F-fucking 'ell........ You shouldn't 'ave to listen to this...!
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Gene sighs, heart hurting along with Sam.*

Listen. D'you know how many times I've imagined this? Not just with Warren. Any old bugger I walk past in the street could be lookin' for me. Eyeing me up, logging my movements, waiting for the full moon. This scenario ain't new to me, Sam.

*Gene shakes his head, closing his eyes as he sighs again.*

But it is to you.

And for the most part I 'ad nobody to turn to when I was thrown into all this. But you've got me, and if you need to have a bloody rant and get this shit off your chest you go ahead and don't hold back. Alright?

*If he can make this at all easier for Sam, he will. However painful it is, he'll listen. It's the least he can do.*
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*At first, Sam doesn't really react - he's too convinced that what he's doing right now isn't right. Piling additional trauma onto what Gene already has to deal with... He can't do it...!

However, as Gene continues to speak, Sam raises his gaze again, looking over at the other man. He sounds... sincere. And much as he doesn't like the thought, Sam has to admit that it makes sense - of course this kind of scenario would have been going round and round in Gene's head. It's wrong - Gene shouldn't have to worry about this kind of thing, it isn't fair - but... it is what it is. At this point, there's little use in lamenting the fact that the world is cruel and confusing, and that they've both landed themselves in their respective conundrums.

And Gene's offer is more than Sam could ever have dared to hope for from him.

Sam deflates a little and nods with a small sniff.*

... alright.

....... thank you.

*He rubs his hand across his face again, and luckily, the tears seem to have dried up for now. What they leave behind is an even more intense headache, but Sam feels slightly more at peace. The situation seems that little bit more manageable.*
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Gene squeezes Sam's knee again in response.*

Alright.

*Then he hesitates. There's something he's been wondering. Something he's wanted to ask but hasn't wanted to rake everything up again for Sam. But now that the opportunity's there...

Hopefully he won't upset Sam by asking... But if he doesn't ask now, he never will...*

'Ey, uhm... C'n I ask you something?
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*During the pause after Gene's confirmation, Sam raises a hand to his face - not to rub away tears, but to pinch his nose. The fever doesn't seem to have gone down... to the contrary. It's getting to a point where, after everything that happened during the last half hour, he's starting to have trouble stringing his thoughts together to form something comprehensive. He'll have to sleep again soon, whether he likes it or not...

Then, Gene's question drags him away from his own misery, and leaves him almost confused. There's something odd about Gene asking for permission now. Sam searches his face for any hints as to what's on Gene's mind, but the latter is hard to read during the best of times, and Sam really isn't at 100% right now.

So in the end, all Sam can do is nod, and wince as the fever punishes him for it with another spike to his headache.*

... 'course.
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*OK... With that permission, Gene opens his mouth ready to bring it up. The heart thing. Every other part of Sam's dream stemmed from some part of reality. The skinning, being touched... It all fits the pattern. The pattern that Warren had established to begin with. But the heart? Warren ripping it out and giving it to Sam? That's an anomaly.

He swallows, about to ask.

And then the doorbell rings.

Shit. The doctor.

Gene falters. He may not get a chance to ask again... But he has to go answer it...!*
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*The ring of the doorbell sound shrill and painful to Sam's ears, making him flinch and setting his heart racing with shock. A moment later, however, he realises what's going on - the doctor must have arrived.

Exhaling somewhat shakily, Sam leans back against the pillows and closes his eyes briefly - that jolt has made him feel dizzy and slightly sick...

... And he can't shake the feeling that Gene was about to ask him something important. He may not be able to trust his senses completely at the moment, but... Something about the atmosphere that was building up tells him he isn't wrong about this.

The thought scares him - but at the same time, he wants to hear it. He needs to hear it...

Sam turns his head gingerly to look over at Gene, and carefully says*

... Hold onto that thought?
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*after a pause, Gene grunts in agreement. Whether it'll come up again or not, he's got to make sure that Sam's looked after medically, first. So he pushes himself up and tries to hurry on his way downstairs.

He's still stiff and sore, so it takes longer than it otherwise would, but when he makes it to the front door, Gene's relieved to see the doctor still waiting there. A breathless introduction and then Gene's leading the man upstairs a lot more slowly than before.

After a few moments, Gene's at Sam's doorway.*

'Ere you are, doc. Think he feels as shit as he looks.

*the man is small and round with a kind face. Hopefully signals that he's going to be nice.

"Hello Sam. I'm Dr Twitchen - your friend here tells me you've come down with a fever?"*
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*During the time it takes Gene to make his way downstairs, answer the door and return to the bedroom, Sam tries his best to gather himself and sit up a little more, even though the fever is trying to force him to do the exact opposite. Just a few more minutes, he tells himself... after this examination, he can lie down... even though it means falling asleep... but maybe Gene will stay with him, at least for a while...!

Sam looks up when the two men enter, blinking against the light as he tries to get a good look at the doctor. He looks nice. Friendly. And very 70s. Hopefully he'll chalk the redness of Sam's eyes up to the fever... they feel somewhat puffy from all the crying.

Sam nods in response to Twitchen's question, clearing his throat slightly awkwardly before saying*

Yeah. I, erm, woke up this morning with a raised temperature... it's been going up since then.
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*The doctor nods, putting his bag on the floor and starting to rummage through it.

"I see. And have you been near anyone who's had a virus? Had any other symptoms? Nausea? Chills?"

Without pause, he straightens up and holds out a thermometer.

"Pop this under your tongue, please!"*
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Slightly overwhelmed by the speed at which the doctor is firing off his questions, Sam flounders for a moment before managing to say*

N-not as far as I know... I threw up during the night once, but since then, nothing--

*Sam breaks off as the thermometer is all but shoved towards him, and in his surprise, he doesn't think twice before opening his mouth again, this time to grant the doctor access.

Twitchen places the thermometer where it needs to be, and as Sam closes his mouth again, the doctor turns to Gene.

"Do you have anything to add to that? Any insights?"*
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Gene hovers as Twitchen sees to Sam and launches his barrage of questions - and then silences Sam with the thermometer. It's clear the man's processing everything at a million miles an hour, searching for a diagnosis.*

Well, uh... He's been havin' nightmares... high fever... And he's been through uh... Trauma, I s'pose you'd call it.

*He doesn't know whether that has anything to do with it - but it's possible that the stress could have lowered Sam's immune system somewhat... and that basement wasn't exactly clean...

But even so, that doesn't really make sense. That's why Gene needed to call the doctor. He has no clue what's causing this illness in Sam.*
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Twitchen nods, eyes narrowed sightly as he takes in Gene's words. His gaze lingers on Gene himself for a bit - there's still that cut on his cheek, and bandages peeking out from underneath his clothes... clearly Sam isn't the only one who's been through "trauma".

"I see."

He turns back to Sam and extracts the thermometer, much to Sam's relief. However, as he reads the temperature, the doctor's eyebrows shoot up.

"38.9°. That's a solid fever you've got there."

38.9.... Christ. The number causes Sam's stomach to drop - he's not had a fever this high in years. Not since he was a child.

The doctor leans in, extending his hands to gently feel for Sam's tonsils, just like Gene did before. "Nothing swollen there... no symptoms of a cold or a flu?"

Sam shakes his head, somewhat numbly. Having a number to put to the burning and thumping in his head seems to have made the situation that much worse; he feels like he can't keep his eyes open, his head feels light... focusing on Twitchen is strenuous, almost painful...*

None... 'aven't been ill in weeks...
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Twitchen frowns, unable to piece things together. There's no glands he can feel, and Sam hasn't been near anyone else who's displayed the same symptoms... He's thrown up once but doesn't feel nauseous...

He wants to say Sam has a virus, but it doesn't seem to fit. Strange...

"So there's nothing you can think of that would explain you coming down with this? Nothing at all?"*
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Sam hesitates - technically, he knows what's causing the fever (or he's very sure, anyway), but...he'll sound completely deranged if he says it. At best, the doctor will chalk it down to the fever itself... and at worst...

But he has to say something... He doesn't want to be admitted to hospital just because a GP couldn't figure out what's wrong with him...!

Sam's eyes flick over to Gene before he does his best to concentrate on Twitchen again, and quietly says*

... I've been Gene's carer for the last... two weeks. He was badly injured and needed someone to... to help 'im round the 'ouse...

*Hearing this, the doctor turns to Gene for confirmation, the frown still there.*
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*The attention now shifted to Gene himself, Gene stuffs his hands into his pockets. This can't be because of him... Can it?*

... Yeah... It, umm... S'been a bit mad round 'ere...

But that won't have given Tyler a fever, will it?
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Twitchen gives a thoughtful little "hmm" and looks back at Sam, who gingerly shakes his head.*

I've been on paid leave all this time... And I was fine until this morning...

*Until the nightmare...

The doctor keeps his gaze on Sam for a few seconds longer, before looking back at Gene.

"Is this the 'trauma' you mentioned?" He glances at Sam - Sam's face, in particular. "Are there any fresh injuries you're recovering from?"*
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*fresh injuries... Only mental ones, Gene wants to say - what Warren almost did to Sam, it's clear that's left lasting scars. But that's not something that could cause this, surely...*

There were wounds on his leg too, but they've healed up now. He had a scare, but... Nothin' else that could get infected if that's what you mean...

*Twitchen raises his eyebrow, his gaze lowering to Sam's legs. No infection... Can't hurt to check.

"Would you mind if I just take a look? I'd like to make sure. And check for rashes, that sort of thing."*
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*That catches Sam somewhat unawares, but after a moment he nods and folds back the duvet, giving Twitchen access. Luckily his pyjama pants are lose, so all he needs to do is roll them up to reveal the scars Edwards left there...

Sam has mostly forgotten about them, but seeing the scars now - large teeth marks, only just starting to fade - brings back memories from that night when he was first plunged into this dark world. Nothing had made sense... And Sam had thought he was going to be ripped apart by a monster. The scars on his face feel tight again, almost throbbing along with the fever.

As far as Sam can see, there's no rash there... Another possibility ruled out - but he'll see what the doctor says...*
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*The doctor peers over Sam's leg, lightly laying his fingers over the scars. He waits a moment and then pulls his hand away.

"No worrying redness, no localised heat, no pus or swelling.. No infection."

He takes a step further up the bed, gesturing to Sam's vest.

"Do you mind if i--?"

He takes hold of the bottom of Sam's vest and gently hikes it up to look for rashes. And what he sees there startles him a moment.

There are scratches over Sam's abdomen. Not deep, but it's clear that he's been itching hard enough to bleed.

What the...

"... You've been scratching? Is this... Did you have a rash? If you did its very important that you tell me."*
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Having someone touch the scar tissue on his leg feels more than just a little strange, even after nearly two months. Maybe it's the fever amplifying the sensation, but Sam is relieved when Twitchen lets up.

But then, as the man closes in and reaches for Sam's vest, his eyes widen with a sudden spike of fear, his muscles growing tense as he backs up instinctively - but before he's able to verbally protest, Twitchen has already lifted up the fabric.

Sam freezes. He knows this wasn't a rash, and he doesn't fancy going through allergy tests of the 70s. But how on earth does he explain this...?! He can't tell the doctor what really happened, not when it took him so long to even admit it to Gene... But his fever-addled brain is struggling up to come with a plausible lie, leaving Sam speechless as he stares back into Twitchen's eyes.*
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*At the sight of the scratches, Gene freezes. His eyes go wide and his heart goes cold.

Sam's been scratching. Was this Warren...? Was this what almost happened? Or... What if this WAS a rash...? What if Sam's got some terrible disease he's completely overlooked? What if Edwards infected him with something??

Whole body tense, Gene stares at him and says in a thin voice,*

Sam??
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Sam's eyes flick over to Gene, his heart giving a painful thump at the tone of his voice and, even more so, his expression. For a moment, there's a single thought in Sam's mind - Help me! - and he almost says it out loud; Gene should know what's been going on, he should have guessed, why is he just stood there--?!

Sam's expression crumples slightly, then he turns his head away, staring down at his lap with a mixture of resignation and a sense of betrayal. Suddenly, he can't stand the fact that both men's eyes are on him - his body - and he places a protective hand over his stomach, batting away Twitchen's hand in the process. At the same time, Sam scoots backwards another couple of inches, backing away from the doctor.

At length, he quietly says*

... It wasn't a rash.
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*It wasn't a rash... And with the doctor watching he wouldn't lie, would he...?

So it must be... Must be Warren...

Taking a chance and hoping for some confirmation, Gene asks again.*

Then.... It was... From two weeks ago...?
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Sam raises his head just enough to be able to glance at Gene. Looks like he understood what Sam was saying... Thank God. Not yet allowing himself relief (not that his fevered mind would be able to keep up with this rapid change of emotions either way), Sam merely nods.

Twitchen looks from Sam over to Gene, a somewhat bewildered look on his face as he withdraws his hand.

"Would you mind explaining what this is about?" Two weeks ago - that's when they had told him Gene was injured. So is this to do with that incident..?*
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*For once, Gene is speechless. Twitchen wants to know what this is about. But he can't say, can he. The thought of Warren touching his Sam... Of his grubby fingers, peeling at his waistband... It makes him rage inside. And now there's physical evidence of it. Sam must have been rubbing and scratching there ever since...

He can't tell the doctor what happened. What almost happened. This is between Sam and him.

Gene swallows, doing his best to come up with an excuse.*

Yeah, must have been. We were in a basement overnight. Damp, dirty... Must 'ave scratched himself or... Or set off an allergy or something...
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Twitchen regards Gene silently for a few seconds before looking back at Sam.

"... Is that the whole story? Sam?"

Sam remains silent and still for a little while, his mind processing what Gene said. He's trying to cover this up... And with his headache intensifying, Sam can't bring himself to care whether or not the doctor will believe them.

So he nods again.*

... s'just... a nervous tic. It wasn't the most... comfortable night.

... fever's nothing to do with it.
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Gene Hunt
Member Avatar
Detective Chief Inspector
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*The doctor frowns, trying to detect any hint of a lie in Sam's voice. But he seems to be telling the truth...

"Well, if you're sure... You know if you're lying to me, there's a chance you could have a strain of meningitis. But if you're sure, then... I can't see any other signs of a rash or pox..."

He scratches his head, baffled.

"There doesn't seem to be an identifyable cause for your symptoms here. There's nothing else you're not telling me?"*
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
Sam Tyler
Member Avatar
Gladys
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
*Meningitis.... No. Sam may not be able to think completely straight at the moment, but he knows this isn't meningitis. He knows there was no rash on his stomach.

So the fact that Twitchen seems to be giving up none the wiser doesn't come as a surprise to Sam. He shakes his head, then squeezes his eyes shut because the motion caused a swirl of dizziness.

There's another moment of silence as the doctor assesses Sam, before giving a sigh.

"Right. Well, in that case, I'm afraid there isn't much I can do." He turns to Gene. "You'll have to monitor that fever. If it hits 40°, he'll have to be admitted to hospital - and hopefully they'll know what to do."

The doctor glances back at Sam, who hasn't looked up again, his face buried in his hands. This whole conversation has drained him... God, he can't keep his eyes open much longer. The fever is burning even more intensely than before, so much so that Sam thinks he can hear a faint ringing in his ears... or is it static....? He draws a ragged breath, slowly rubbing his hands over his face, massaging the scar tissue there.

Focusing on Gene again, Twitchen adds, "Make sure you keep a close eye on him."*
Offline Profile Goto Top
 
2 users reading this topic (2 Guests and 0 Anonymous)
ZetaBoards - Free Forum Hosting
Free Forums with no limits on posts or members.
Go to Next Page
« Previous Topic · Hospital Records · Next Topic »
Locked Topic