Annie

Section 2

Please note: This is copyrighted (©) by me, Tammtamm. Please do not copy it or save it without my permission. Thank you. I began writing this story back in the spring of 1995... I do that alot... I start stories, leave them alone, find them after weeks, months, years... and then I see where I can take them to from where I stopped them. None of them are finished. It's just that when I get an idea... it becomes so overwhelming that I have to follow that particular story until something else comes along or I can go back to one of my other stories. This one is only 106 pages long but nowhere near finished. I've added it so that it gives my ever faithful reader base something "new" (to them) to read and gives others something to read other than fan fiction. PLEASE PLEASE send me feedback (comments, questions, etc...) at stories@iwuvjoey.com. Or feel free to email me at tammtamm@bigfoot.com. Thanks for visiting and Happy Reading!

Annie waited five minutes after the third gunshot before leaving her hiding place. Todd had taught her and Sarah to be cautious if something like this had happened. She couldn’t hear anything as she quietly opened the bedroom door, all the while, praying it wouldn’t creak. Slowly, she walked towards the corner of the hallway and peaked around the corner. She saw Johnny lying flat on his back and the goon flat on his face. Forgetting everything Todd told her, she ran to Johnny.
“John! Oh my god. John!” she cried as she kneeled beside him. As she checked Johnny’s pulse, she opened his shirt and was so thankful he had been wearing his vest. He was unconscious. She ran over to the goon and checked his pulse. He was dead. “Phone, Annie, phone.” she said aloud to herself. She ran to the phone and dialed 911.
“911 emergency.”
“Please, I need an ambulance and the police. Two officers have been shot.”
“Address please.”
“843 Conway Drive, Penthouse. Please hurry. One officer is unconscious and the other dead.”
“Ma’am , the ambulance and the police are on their way. Can you tell me what happened?”
Annie told her everything that she knew had happened as calmly as she could.
“Annie! Annie!” Todd shouted from the other side of the door five minutes later.
“They’re here. Thank you.” Annie hung up the phone and flung at her brother. Ryan Torres went to check on Johnny and the goon.
“Annie, are you okay?” Todd asked. She nodded as she cried into his neck, “I was so scared.”
“Ssshhh, it’s alright.”
“John? John? C’mon buddy. Can you hear me?” Ryan asked his partner as he gently shook him.
“Torres? Dennison?” the Captain shouted as he and some other officers ran down the hall.
“Disk...they wanted a disk.” John whispered. Annie ran to him.
“John? I’m here...wake up, John. Don’t leave me...” she said. The paramedics arrived. Ryan pulled her back and away from the paramedics.
“Let them work, Annie. Come on, come sit down. Take it easy.” Ryan directed her to the couch. Todd went to look in the den.
“He went to check with the other bodyguard before coming to sit with me. I don’t understand. Why would someone come in here and shoot down two police officers, why?” Annie said aloud.
“Annie, do you know anything about a disk?” Ryan asked. She turned to look at Ryan.
“What disk? I have some in the den with the computer. I work with them all the time.”
“They’re all gone. Whoever came in here, took the disks. All of them.” Todd said as he came out of the den.
“Okay, know anyone who was after you or Derrick concerning any business related items?” Ryan asked.
“No. No one. Is Johnny going to be okay?” she asked the paramedics as she went back over and took hold of Johnny’s hand.
“His vest saved him, but the blow was pretty serious and we need to get him to the hospital to have the leg wound taken care of.” one of them explained.
“Everything happened so fast. I’m here Johnny. Don’t you even think of leaving us.”
“You did good, Annie. You did good.” Todd came back to his sister and knelt down next to her.“I was so scared, I almost didn’t remember what to do.” Annie said and leaned against him.
“I know, kiddo. It’s okay.” Todd replied.
“Why is this happening? Why?”
“Annie, we don’t know, but we’re doing everything we can to find out.” the Captain told her.
“We’re going to transport your friend to the hospital now. The officer is going to be okay. ”
“Annie.” John whispered and tried to take off the oxygen mask.
“Ssshhh...I’m right here. I’m okay, Johnny. You’re going to be okay too. You were wearing your vest. And you’ve been shot in the leg. ”
“The goon?”
“Don’t worry about that right now. These guys are going to take you to the hospital.”
“You...”
“Sshh...I’m okay. Todd and Ryan are here. No more talking. I’ll see you at the hospital.” Annie told him. She gave him a kiss on the cheek and whispered “thank you” in his ear.
“Disk...”
“Ryan already knows about that buddy.” Todd came up and was standing next to Annie.
“D...”
“No more talking. We’ll talk once you’re not in a daze.” Todd warned.
“Please, get him out of here.” Annie told the paramedics.
“C’mon, Annie. You should go to. Just as a precaution. You’re looking really pale.” Todd said.
“I’m fine. But, we can’t stay here anymore, can we?”
“No, whoever was here will probably be back.” Todd said. “Pack some clothes. Ryan, can you grab her laptop and docking station? The techs at the station should look at the laptop. See if there are any hidden files on it. Annie, is that okay with you?”
"Yeah, but I also let Derrick use the safe. Whatever these people were looking for, it might be in there.” she suggested.
“Good thinking. Where’s the safe?” Ryan asked.
"Behind the filing cabinet. The pw is 7 28 63.” Annie said.
“My birthday...” Todd said.
“It was easy to remember.” she replied. Todd and Annie went to Sarah’s room while Ryan and the Captain went into the den. The coroner had arrived and taken pictures and everything of the body.
“Paydirt.” Ryan said once he opened the safe. He found a brown envelope addressed to Annie.
“I’ll get Annie.” the Captain said.

 “Ryan, let me see the envelope.” Annie said as soon as she returned with the Captain. Ryan handed her the envelope. She immediately opened it. Enclosed she found a letter addressed to her, a letter addressed to Johnny, two disks, FBI identification cards, and a ring. She read the letter out loud.

“My dear Annie: I must not have made it home for you to be reading this letter. I’m so sorry about this. I love you and I never wanted you to know about this. Honey, I’m an FBI agent. And Tokyo was to have been my last assignment as an agent. The disks included in the envelope contain crucial information concerning the business dealings of the Pharmeceutical company. Please get these disks to Agent Jonathan Smiley. He’ll know what to do. His number and code are on the back of this letter. I’ve included my FBI identification cards so that you can give them to him for verification concerning the disks. The ring...well...that was suppose to be your engagement ring. Since I can’t be there in person to give it to you, please keep it but go on with your life and find someone who will love you as much or more than I have. Someone like Johnny. Give Johnny the letter that I’ve enclosed for him. Tell my family that I love them all very much and not to mourn for me because I died in the line of duty. God bless you, Annie. You are a remarkable woman. My love forever....Derrick.” Annie finished and handed the letter to Ryan.

“You’ll need this.” She said as she sat down in the nearest chair, she handed Ryan the letter.
“You never knew...” Ryan said, sounding shocked.
“No...never knew...” Annie said as she looked at the identification cards.
“Oh, Annie. I’m so sorry. We thought you knew.” the captain said.
“Sorry to disappoint you uncle Paul, but apparently I didn’t know anything about Derrick Masters.” Annie said. She laid her head in her hands. Todd went over to her.
“Hey now...Don’t be mad at him for not telling you, Annie. He loved you. He was protecting you.” he said to try to comfort her.
“I’m mad at him because he wasn’t more careful. I’m mad at him for putting himself in danger and not even considering what danger he might be putting me into. I’m mad at him for leaving me here, alone. I wish to god this wasn’t happening.” she replied calmly. “I want to go see Johnny please. He needs me right now. And I have to give him his letter from Derrick.”
“Sure. I’ve got your bags next to the door. Once it’s safe, I’ll get Sarah to come pack up the rest of the apartment. You won’t be coming back here.” Todd said.
“Uncle Paul...can I go now?”
“Yeah, Ryan and I will come with you. Ryan...”
“Yeah. I’m ready.” Ryan had disconnected the laptop and docking station and was ready to go.
“We’ll be going down the service elevator for safety reasons and to avoid the press.” The captain said. Annie didn’t argue. She just got up and left the room.
“This did it. This put her into her shell.” Todd said.
“Don’t say that yet, Todd. Let’s get her out of here and let her see Johnny, then we’ll see how she’s doing.” Ryan suggested.
“I just can’t believe he was FBI...how long have you known?” Todd asked.
“Since Johnson called and told us the day they found Derrick. I’ve been in touch with John Smiley through this whole investigation. Smiley didn’t want to bring any unneeded attention to Derrick’s family or to Annie’s company so we were trying to keep this quiet.” the captain said.
“That’s why the heavy duty bodyguards.” Ryan explained.
“Well, Annie needs to be told all of this either way. She has a right to know. Everything. Understand?” Todd told them both.
“Of course. Now, let’s get out of here.” the captain said.

“Annie?” the captain asked.
“She’s on the phone in the kitchen, Cap.” a police officer said in passing.
“...I won’t be able to make it over there tonight. I’m sorry. I just can’t.” she said into the phone and hung up.
“Annie...c’mon, let’s go see Johnny.” Todd said and offered her his hand. She took it and followed him out of the apartment. They had half a dozen police officers surrounding them all the way to the car.

“Johnny’s in surgery.” Bradley Simms said when he saw Annie, Todd, and Ryan enter the emergency room.
“How is he?”
“Stable, but he lost alot of blood and they wanted to remove the bullet from his thigh. They are concerned that he may have some nerve damage.” Annie turned to Todd. Tears welling up in her eyes.
“Don’t worry. He’ll be okay.” he said to her. He had put his hands on her shoulders and looked directly into her eyes.
“There’s a waiting room that’s been roped off away from the press for everyone to wait in. Sarah’s there now. She needs to see you two for herself and see that you both are okay.”
“Show us the way, Brad.” Todd said. Annie couldn’t talk. She couldn’t find the words. Once in the waiting room, Sarah ran to them both.
“Thank god you’re okay. I’ve been so worried.” she cried as she hugged them both. Annie started to cry then.
“Guys, could you leave us three alone for a little while?” Todd looked at Ryan and Brad.
“Annie, it’s okay baby sister. It’s okay...”
“It’ll never be okay, Sarah. Derrick is dead...gone...all because of two disks. Johnny was shot protecting me and another officer was killed. How am I suppose to accept that everything’s going to be okay? Derrick hid the truth from me. Hid a vital part of his life from me. How am I suppose to just accept that? How?”
“You’ve had a lot to deal with. Don’t dwell on what’s happened. Just on Johnny. He needs us right now. You need to be strong for him. You need to rest. You look so pale.” Sarah stated.
“You try going through what I’ve just gone through the past two hours?”
“Anyone for a soda?” Todd asked. Annie shook her head and laid down on the couch and closed her eyes. She wanted to forget about everything for just a few hours. Sarah sat down next to her and let Annie lay her head on Sarah’s lap.
“I know you don’t want to talk right now, but if you do...I’m here.” Sarah played with Annie’s hair.
Brad and Ryan came in a few minutes later. Annie had closed her eyes and tried to relax.
“So...why did you two elope?” Todd asked Brad after opening a soda for Sarah.
“Sarah’s idea.”
“Didn’t want a big, expensive wedding. Didn’t want family I haven’t seen in years there. Wanted something spur of the moment and romantic.”
“Was it?” Todd asked.
“It was perfect.”
“Then, that’s fine. Just wish I would’ve known you two were even involved.” Todd said.
“If you’d call more often...”
“Annie didn’t even know you two were that serious.” Todd stated.
“Please don’t talk about me like I’m not even here.” Annie stated.
“Sorry...thought you were sleeping.” Todd answered.
“How can I sleep with all this noise?” she asked. “Do we have to rehash the elopement and everything that’s happened. How about some conversations about sports or the weather or just peace and quiet?”
“Sorry.” Todd said again.
“Enough!” Annie shouted and stood up. She felt dizzy and immediately began to fall. Todd caught her in a heartbeat.
“Whoa, Annie. You okay?” he asked.
“Yeah, I just got up to fast. Water would be good.”
“Delayed reaction to the shooting.” Ryan said as Todd went over to the sink.
“I know, Ryan. I know.”
“She needs to be under the care of a doctor.”
“Don’t you think I know that? She’s a grown woman. Once we find out how Johnny’s doing, she’ll see one. Right now, she needs to be with me, Sarah, and Johnny. Where she’s safe.”
“Todd, the water?” Brad asked. He was fanning Annie with a magazine. She was starting to perspire and she really wasn’t feeling well. She couldn’t hear what Sarah and Bard were asking her.
“Just get me to the bathroom.” Annie said. She was going to be sick. Sarah helped her to the bathroom. “Sarah...” Annie said and fell to the floor. She was having a seizure. The men ran to her and Sarah.
“Hold her head still.” Todd said. He wet some paper towels and laid them on her forehead.
“Annie, don’t worry, we’re going to get you some help.” Ryan said.
“Annie, stay with me. It’s okay.” Sarah said to her sister. Annie had a panicked look in her eyes.
“I’ll get a doctor.” Brad said. Todd didn’t argue. Ryan went to get the Captain.

“Security is setup nice and tight. I’ve given Annie a sedative and as soon as I know anything about Johnny, I’ll come let you know. Let Annie rest, okay. From what Todd and Captain Clooney have told me, she’s been through alot these past two days.”
“Thanks, doctor.” Todd said. A half hour later a different doctor was back to update them on Johnny.
“I’m Dr. Morrow. John came through the surgery just fine. He’s asking for Annie.”
“Well, she’s currently a patient right now. Is it okay if I go in and see him.”
“Okay, but he’s still in recovery.” the doctor led Todd to the recovery room.
“Hey, Johnny. The doctor says you’re going to be just fine.” Todd said.
“Annie?”
“Well, she’s in for observation but she wasn’t hurt by any bullets just by seeing you lying there.”
“She okay?”
“The doctors are waiting for some tests results, but I think she is. Do you remember what happened?”
“I went to check on the goon after Annie had gone back to the bedroom to lie down to take a nap. I heard a scuffle so I drew my gun and opened the door.”
“Hey, you don’t have to tell me everything now.”
“Disks.”
“We got them. Don’t worry. I’ll see you when they take you to your own room.
“Sarah?”
“She’s sitting with Annie.”
“Take care of Annie.”
“I will.”
“I’m gonna marry her.” Johnny said before falling back to sleep.
“We’ll see.” Todd said and patted his friend’s hand before leaving the room.

Todd relieved Sarah a little after midnight and sat in the chair next to Annie’s bed. He was really worried about her because she usually took things so well. This shock to her wasn’t normal for her.
“Derrick....Derrick...don’t go....No! Johnny....Johnny!” Annie screamed. She was having a nightmare.
“Annie, wake up, you’re dreaming.” Todd tried to calm her down. A nurse came running in.
“It’s alright, she was having a nightmare.” he told the nurse as she came to.
“Todd? It seemed so real.””
“It’s okay, baby sister. I’m right here.” he told her, “Go back to sleep, I won’t leave your side.”
“Johnny?”
“He’s out of surgery and doing just fine.” Todd said to his sister.
“Where am I?”
“You’re in the hospital. You had a seizure in the waiting room. Your brain couldn’t take all the stress so it shut down for a few minutes. You had a seizure.”
“Am I okay?”
“Yeah, you just need some rest and nourishment. You’ve been through hell.”
“When can I see Johnny?”
“In the morning. But, I do have some news for you?”
“What?”
“The FBI arrested the CEO of the pharmeceutical company that Derrick was working for. They also arrested two men who are the prime suspects in Derrick’s murder and, they were caught on videotape ransacking Derrick’s apartment and breaking into yours.”
“That was fast. It’s over?”
“Yeah it is.”
“Your cover?”
“Is still in tact. Don’t worry about me. Get some sleep, I’m not going anywhere.” Todd ordered.
“Water?”
“Hold on, I’ll go get you some.” Todd said and left her alone in her hospital room.
“Excuse me, Mr. Dennison. The doctor is looking for you. He’s got some prelims back on Annie.”
“Could you take this back to Annie and tell her that I had to go see Johnny really quick?” he asked the nurse.
“Of course, the doctor is in the lounge down this corridor and to the left.” the nurse pointed the way. Todd thanked her and went to find the doctor.
“Dr. Cummings?” he asked as he knocked on the door.
“Yes, come in.” a voice replied.
“The nurse said you were looking for me? You have some of Annie’s test results?”
“Annie’s three months pregnant.”
“Are you sure?”
“The lab ran it through twice. She’s pregnant.”
“Whoa. This is going to shock her.”
“There’s more. The fetus is in danger from all the stress. I’m afraid that she may lose this baby. I’ve got a call into her OB/GYN to come and examine her.”
“Have you talked to Sarah, our sister?”
“No.”
“When do you want to tell Annie?”
“Tomorrow morning, when she’s more alert.”
“Okay, can I be there?”
“Certainly.”
“Well, I’d better get back to Annie. Thank you for telling me about this surprise.”
“Todd, I’m sorry, but I just don’t think the baby will survive.”
“Doc, thanks for your honesty. However, that’s not possible, she had to have a hysterectomy when she was 19. She had cancer in her tubes..” Todd replied.
“Then think of this as a miracle because she is pregnant.”
“I have to get back to her, we’ll talk more in the morning, alright?”
“Sure, Mr. Dennison.”
“Thank you.” Todd said and went back to his sister’s room. She was sound asleep. He refused to leave her side. He wondered how she would take the news that she was pregnant. It truly was a miracle. “This news is going to shock everyone...” Todd had thought to himself.

“Todd, wake up.” Sarah said to her brother when she entered her sister’s room the next morning. “I brought you a change of clothes. The nurse said you could use the Doctors’ lounge to shower and change.”
“Thanks, how’s Annie?”
“Sleeping. Johnny wants to see her.” Sarah replied.
“I know. She wants to see him too. Sarah, Annie’s three months pregnant.” Todd said to Sarah as he put the bag down.
“That’s impossible.”
"That’s what I said but the doctor said they ran the tests twice. Annie’s GYN will be in to see her this morning.”
“Talk about being hit with one thing after another. I don’t think she can handle the stress of having a baby.” Sarah sat down in the other chair.
“And the doctor doesn’t think she’ll be able to carry the baby to term. I’m assuming they’re going to want to do more tests.”
“Wow...pregnant. I can’t even imagine...”
“What are you two talking about?” Annie said as she sat up in the bed.
“Nothing special. How are you this morning?”
“Ask me tomorrow.” Annie replied. “I want to get out of here.”
“Well, we’ll have to see what the doctor says.” Todd said.
“I want out of here, Todd. I hate these places. You both know that.”
“Your pregnant.” Sarah blurted out.
“What! Impossible.” Annie said as soon as they told her.
“Sarah!...”
“Todd? What do you know?” Annie asked.
“Let’s let the doctor explain everything, okay, Annie?”
“Sarah say’s I’m pregnant. Is that true?” Annie asked.
“Annie, I think Dr. Cummings should tell you about your condition.” Todd claimed.
“Todd, do you really think that I trust doctors? I trust you and Sarah.” Annie told him. Todd sat down on the bed and took her hand.
“Fine, you’re pregnant. They ran the tests twice to confirm and they’re going to want to do more when your GYN checks you out. I didn’t want to believe it either, but it’s true. You’re about three months along but the baby is suffering from stress. Furthermore, they don’t think that you’ll be able to carry the baby to term.”
“I don’t believe it. I don’t believe it.” Annie said to him.
“I didn’t believe it either, sis. It’s a miracle.” Todd said.
“How’s Johnny?” Annie wanted to change the subject.
“He’s doing better, in fact, I’m going to go look in on him now. Any messages?” Todd asked.
“Just tell him I said thank you and that I’m glad he’s okay.”
“I will. Sarah?”
“I’m coming with you. I think Annie wants some time to herself and I want to call Brad.” Sarah said.
“Thank you guys. I appreciate it.” Annie said and rolled away from the door. Sarah and Todd left quietly.
“Sarah, you shouldn’t have told her until the doctor was there.” Todd told her.
“She has the right to know.”
“The last thing she needs right now is this. Damn it, Sarah. The doctor says that there’s no way she’ll be able to carry the baby to term. Don’t you understand? Her emotional state is not well, this is going to put her over the edge. Go home to the safety of your new husband and leave Annie to me. I will take care of her.” Todd stated.
“Like you took care of your wife and child?” Sarah spat and left before Todd could say anything more. Todd loved his sister dearly, but sometimes he could just ring her neck. Todd composed himself before going into Johnny’s room. He saw Johnny trying to get dressed.
“Whoa there partner. What the hell do you think you’re doing?” he said as he went to his friend’s side.
“Getting out of this bed.
“Not for the next day or two. You just went through some pretty major surgery pal. You lost alot of blood.”
“Gotta take care of Annie.”
“She’s not going anywhere for awhile and she’s pretty heavily guarded.”
“Don’t argue with me Todd.”
“Don’t you argue with me, John. You will be much better to her healthy then weak and gimpy. You’re as white as a sheet. Back into bed with ya.” Todd ordered.
“I want to see her.”
“Not right now. She needs some time alone. Maybe this afternoon.”
“What’s wrong?”
“The tests haven’t come back yet. Has Cap been in yet?”
“Yup. So has the FBI and many doctors and my dad flew in from Seattle. Mad that he had to hear about this on the news from his satelite dish.”
“Where is he now?”
“My apartment, getting some things. He’ll be back later. He wants to see Annie too.”
“I’ll see what I can do.”
“They came there to kill her, you know.” Johnny said out of the blue.
“What do you mean.”
“They wanted to know where she was. They wanted the disks and the one guy wanted Annie. He wanted to rape her and kill her. I could see it in his eyes.”
“Don’t ever tell her that.”
“I don’t plan on it. I just needed to tell you. You’re my best friend. I need you to understand me.”
“I do, but John, she just found out that Derrick wasn’t who she thought he was. Her emotions are so strung right now...she can’t handle anything more.”
“There’s something you’re not telling me.”
“It’s not my place to tell you about it. Listen, there was a letter for you in the safe. It’s from Derrick. Read it when you’re alone.” The door to Johnny’s room swung open as Annie came into the room. Johnny shoved the letter under his pillow.
“Anastasia!” she startled both men.
“I had to see for myself how Johnny was doing. Todd, please, don’t start.”
“How’d you elude the nurses? They are under strict orders that you are not to be on your feet. And the guards?”
“I’ll never divulge my secrets.” Annie said. She sat down on Johnny’s bed. “You’re really okay?” she asked him.
“Won’t be running any marathons during the next few weeks, but I’ll be okay.”
“How about your chest?”
“It’s bruised, but it’ll heal.”
“I was so worried about you.”
“That’s over now. It’s all over now.”
“Annie, I really think...”
“You know what Todd, right now, I don’t care what anyone else thinks. Could you just go find something better to do than lecture me and Johnny? I love you, but go away.” she said glaring at her brother.
“Listen to me. You are restricted to bed rest. I’m taking you back to your room.” Todd said and scooped his sister up.
“Screw you Todd.”
“You can be mad at me from your bed.”
“Todd, don’t do this.” Johnny said.
“John, stay out of this. I’ll fill you in when I come back.” Todd insisted. He took his sister back to her room.
“Thank god! We were just about to call in more police!” Dr. Cummings said as he saw Todd come down the hall with Annie.
“She wanted to see John, so I took her to see him.” Todd said, he looked at the guards on duty.
“How did you get past the guards?”
“I’ll never tell.” Annie said.
“Well, let’s go talk about what I’ve found out. Okay?” Dr. Cummings said. He opened the door to her room for her.
“Annie, I told your brother last night that you are pregnant and the tests confirm that.”
“Impossible. I’m sterile, the cancer saw to that.”
“I’ve got your chart here from your ob/gyn and it stats that in her notes she never mentioned that there was a chance that you could get pregnant because it was very unlikely that you would. Our concern now is all this stress. The babies aren’t doing well.”
“Babies?” Annie asked.
“We believe you’re having twins...please, let me finish. You’re weight is down 10 pounds from your visit to her in March. We need to get your weight up and the stress in tact so that you and the babies will survive. Do you understand me?”
“I can’t sit around in bed all day. I just can’t.”
“We’ve decided that that’s not what matters. You need to eat good, balanced meals and take the vitamins.”
“What about the seizure that I was told I had last night?”
“Well, Dr. Evans wants to do an amnio to see if it affected the babies in any way. She’s on her way in from the Hamptons and should be here around lunchtime. We’re really concerned about you and everything that’s happened.”
“There’s a chance that I could carry these babies to term then?”
“Better than what I saw last night, but we have to get you on track now. Now, I don’t know exactly how you got out of here, but no more stunts.”
“Okay, no more stunts, but do I have to stay here?”
“Just until Dr. Evans says you can go.”
“Thanks, Dr. Cummings.”
“You’re welcome. I have to attend to rounds. If you have any more questions, please have me paged.”
“We will.” Todd said. He waited until the doctor left before asking his sister why she didn’t explode.
“Because, there’s no point. It there’s a chance that I can carry these babies to term, it might be the only chance I get and I’m going to take it.”
“Can I ask what helped make this decision?”
“Do you remember the day after Jamie was born. You and Katie had been trying for several years to have kids. I had just had my last chemo treatment. You brought the baby to the doorway of my hospital room and you said `although we’ve had several miscarriages, this is worth it’. You were so happy about the baby that you glowed. That baby was wanted more than anything and although his life was so short, you were able to cherish those years you had with him. Derrick won’t get that chance, but I can’t not just wither away. I’m pregnant by a pure miracle, you know that as well as I do. You have to help me, okay?”
“How?”
“Move back home. Close the case and move back home. I want my children to know their uncle and for you to know them. Life is too short.”
“I don’t know.”
“I bought mom and dad’s house. You can fix it up.”
“What about you?”
“I’m not very good with a hammer.”
“I am close to closing the case.”
“Then do it.”
“I need some time to think about it, okay?”
“Sure”
“Listen, is it okay if I go talk to Johnny? He’s worried about you.”
“Alright...” their conversation was cut short by Derrick’s brother who came into the room.
“Annie, you okay?” he asked right away.
“Chris, you made it home okay. Have you seen your parents?”
“No, I came straight here. Mom said there was a shooting at your apartment and that Derrick was actually an FBI agent. What’s going on?”
“Long story, Chris. I’m not ready to tell just yet. You should call your parents. Let them know you’re here.”
“Are you sure you’re okay?” Chris asked.
“I’m okay. I promise. Ask Todd.” She said.
“Todd?”
“She’ll be fine.”
“Well then, I should go home and see mom and dad. Is it okay if I come by later.”
“You better and your parents too. I think I’ll be here for another day or so.” Annie said.
“Okay. Bye Todd” Chris said after he gave Annie a hug.
“See ya. Now, Annie...you haven’t had breakfast yet and it’s nearly 10:30.”
“I’m hungry too.”
“I’ll go see what’s holding up your tray.”
“Thanks. I’m going to call the office and let Kathy know what’s going on.”
“What do you mean?”
“I’m just going to let her know that I’m okay. That the stress just got to me.”
“Oh...okay. I’ll be right back.” Todd left the room.

While Annie and Todd were talking to Dr. Cummings, John opened the letter from Derrick....

Hi, John, if you’re reading this letter then something terrible has happened to me. You made me a promise when we first met and again earlier tonight about Annie. Please, please take care of her. I know you’re in love with her and that you cherish your friendship with her. Please give her time to grieve. Never leave her side. She’s going to need you now that she knows the truth about me. Encourage her to continue on. She is truly, truly a gem and I am so sorry that my life has been cut short. Take care of her and have a happy life with her. You both deserve it. Thank you for being my friend and confidant, even if, subconsciously, you didn’t want me and Annie together. Also keep an eye on Sarah...she’s just as special as her sister.  God bless and take care...Derrick Masters.

“Kath...it’s me.”
“Hi, Annie. How are you?”
“I’m okay. So’s Johnny. What’s going on?”
“Tammy’s headed your way. She just called in. Doug and Jenn are worried about you, nats. Like me.”
“I trust you’re keeping them in line?”
“Yeah, boss lady. So what’s going on?”
“I don’t want to tell you over the phone. Can you get Betsy or Karyn to cover for you?”
“Sure.”
“Cool, come to my room here at the hospital and bring my mail too. I’m going to be in until tomorrow probably and I think seeing you will help this afternoon go by quickly.”
“I’ll be there soon then.”
“Thanks, Kath. You’re terrific.” Annie said as she hung up the phone.

“Before you eat anything, I want to do the amnio, okay?” Dr. Evans said as she came in with Todd.
“Sure.”
“Okay, how are you otherwise?”
“Honestly?”
“I’ll leave you two alone.” Todd said.
“Thanks, Todd.” Annie said, she waited until he left to continue; “I was really shocked when Dr. Cummings told me I was pregnant, but now I’m praying that I can actually carry to term and deliver. I’m also concerned that maybe I can’t, you know?”
“I understand. Let me go get the orderly to bring you to my office and we’ll do the amnio. I do want to keep you until tomorrow so that we can monitor you and and the babies and so we can plan how to go about the next few months. I want for you to have the joy of this pregnancy and the babies and I’m going to do everything in my power to see that it happens, but I will need your help. Okay?”
“I agree. Totally. Thanks for coming right away.”
“You’re my favorite patient, next to your sister.”
“She’ll be glad to hear that.”
“Alright. I’ll see you in a few.”
“You bet.”

“How’d the amnio go?” Todd asked when Annie was wheeled back into her room two hours later.
“It was okay. Where’d you go off to?”
“I had a few phone calls to make. I have to go back, sis. I’m going to close the case and I’ll be back. I’ll have to miss the funeral for Derrick.”
“That’s okay. All that matters now is that you get this done so you can come back home.”
“Sarah will be by later and Ryan Torres’ wife, Marissa is also going to stop by. She offered to help out after Johnny and Ryan explained everything to her today. Be nice to her. She’s alot like you.” Todd said.
“I swear. Thanks for coming home and being here for me. Try not to be long, okay?”
“I’ll do my best. Take care of Johnny, okay?”
“What do you mean?”
“I didn’t want to tell you this, but I think in a way, it’ll help you understand why he’s been so protective of you.”
“He’s in love with me.”
“How do you know?”
“Derrick told me right before he left for Tokyo about it. He and Johnny were becoming friends and Johnny told him that if it weren’t for the fact that I was happy with Derrick, he would’ve told me how he felt a while ago.”
“Does he know you know?”
“I don’t think so. And I try not to encourage him. But I’m sorta glad he’s near me. Ya know?”
“I know. And I don’t think he’s gonna declare his love for you any time soon. Just be careful, I can’t keep an eye on him until I get back.”
“Gotcha. You’d better go.”
“Listen to your doctors and let Sarah help you okay. Oh, and give Brad a chance.”
“You’re the one who needs to give him a chance. Now go.” Annie was going to miss her brother, but she knew she’d see him again.

“Johnny, I’m going back to close the case. Get better so you can protect Annie. Okay?”
“Todd, I’ll do my best. Come back soon. This town isn’t the same without you.” Johnny said as they hugged.
“Yeah, right. Did you read the letter?” Todd laughed. Ryan Torres entered the room as Todd was leaving. Johnny nodded.
“Hey, Ryan. Keep this guy in line, got it?” Todd said.
“Like that’ll happen.” Ryan laughed, “What’s up with Todd?” Ryan asked his partner.
“He’s going back to finish his case. What’s up?”
“Just served a warrant on the bank to get into Derrick’s security box. This company’s going down big time.”
“Life?”
“Without parole.”
“Annie will be glad.”
“How is she?”
“Doing better. Todd asked that we keep an eye on her.”
“Marissa’s going to stop by and see her a little later. I understand that one of her artists’ is coming bye?”
“Yeah, Tammy is one of her best friends. Don’t worry, no needed extra security. Tammy’s really good at disguises.”
“Yes, I am...” Tammy said as she came into Johnny’s room.
“Oh my. Who are you today?” Johnny teased as she sashayed over to see him.
“That’s Theresa Matthews to you buddy.” Tammy was dressed as a cowgirl, hat and all with a blonde wig.
“See Ryan, told ya.”
“You’re Detective Torres. Nice to meet you.”
“Same here. I’ll go make sure you’re on Annie’s visitor list as Theresa Matthews. Excuse me.”
“Is he always so stiff?”
“He’s just really focused on this case involving Annie, Tamm. Don’t worry about it.”
“Heard you were shot. You okay?”
“I’ll be okay. Go see Annie, she could use you’re support right now. Todd just went back to finish a case and since I’m still here in bed...”
“Don’t worry. I’m going. I’ll see you later.” she told him.
“Thanks for coming.”
“Sure.”

Annie was sleeping when Tammy had stopped in to see her. Tammy left a note on the nightstand for her saying she’d stop by later.  

Later that day...

“Annie, Sarah and I found the perfect place for you. Ryan and the Captain are going over it now to make it safe and we’ll know this afternoon if you can live in it.” Marissa Torres said as she and Sarah came into the room.
You know, when Todd told me that we knew each other I totally forgot that Katie said that you had married a cop.” Annie said with a smile.
“That’s okay. I’m hardly ever home and since I work in the city right now, we never really get a chance to get together. Anyway, I took some time off to help Sarah, Johnny, and Ryan, get you settled somewhere safe. Ryan really likes you, he says that he can understand why you’re so successful. I’ve missed you.”
“Ditto Riss...” Annie said. “Sarah...where you been all day?”
“Packing the apartment. Besides, I wanted to give you some time to get use to...”
“Being pregnant?”
“Yeah.”
“It’s okay. Dr. Evans has already been in and we took more tests and had an amnio. So far, so good.”
“Todd tell you he and I had a fight after we left you to go check on Johnny?”
“Don’t sweat it. He’s already forgotten it. So, tell me about this place?” Marissa and Sarah told Annie about the house they found while Johnny was learning how to use crutches...the hard way.
“John, there’s no way you’re going to be able to use these things.” Ryan laughed as he watched Johnny try to maneuver the crutches.
“I refuse to stay in this place another day and the only way they’ll let me out is if I can function on my own.”
“What about doctor approval? You just had surgery, you lost a lot of blood.” Ryan continued.
“There’ve been no complications from the surgery or blood loss.” Johnny said as he fell back onto the bed.
“Bullshit. You’re still weak, John. You’re not going anywhere just yet.” Ryan said as he grabbed the crutches from John.
“What are you going to do? Stop me?”
“I can take you, partner, if I have to.” Ryan stated. John was 6 inches taller and 50 pounds heavier than Ryan.
“I don’t want to be here.”
“Do you think I like having my partner in here? Believe me, I don’t, but please, don’t rush to get out of here.”
“Man, there are three thugs out there who broke into Annie’s apartment, killed a cop, shot me and wanted to kill Annie. I’m a sitting duck in here...”
“Who’s no good to the force if you don’t take this injury seriously.” Dr. Morrow said as he entered the room.
“Hiya, doc.”
“John, the x-rays don’t show any damage to the bone in your leg. You’re rib cage is bruised as well as your right lung from the slug that was found in your vest. Even if I let you out of this hospital right now, I can’t permit you to go back to work.” Dr. Morrow stated matter of factly.
“I don’t like hospitals, doc. I’m sorry. I’m worried about Annie Dennison.”
“Well, if the swelling is down in your leg tomorrow, I might let you out of here. To ease your worries about Ms. Dennison, I’ll get a wheelchair for you to use. No arguments.”
“Thanks.”
“There ya go. Now you can pester her in person.” Ryan said after the doctor left.
“So, what kind of slug came out of my leg and the vest?”
“Forensics is still working on that. You murmured something about an AK47 in the ambulance when you were talking to the paramedics. Do you remember that?”
“No...no I don’t. Musta been the IV they gave me.” John said.
“We should know more by tomorrow. Cap and I have to go look at a house Marissa and Sarah found for Annie. Want me to sneak in some contraband?”
“Chocolate.” John asked.
“Alright. It’s done. Be back in an hour or two.”

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