Chapter 56

(Mikey P.O.V.)

I am a father! I can't believe it! I am holding this little bundle of life in my arms and I still have to blink to make sure this is not a dream. My son looks up at me with his big hazel eyes. My eyes. Its so wierd. I feel like I am looking at my eyes. He smiles up at me and I smile back. The nurses told us that babies don't usually smile when they are that young, but he did.

The doctors recommended Alicia and the baby to stay in the hospital for another month so the baby can develop properly. He was two months early so he is still very fragile. He needs to be in an incubator, placed on oxygen, and still needs to be fed intravenously. When he starts gaining some weight and can be fed through his mouth, that will be a good sign that he can go home. Alicia will most likely be able to go home before then, but she really wants to stay with him.

Its eleven at night, and outside its still snowing a lot, even though its still January. Wow, January, our baby was supposed to be due around March 11. He was born on January 9. The nurse came in a little bit ago to put him in an incubator which is next to Alicia's bed. I am glad he can be here with us and not in the NICU. The doctors decided that it was actually better for him to be in here with us. I look at pictures on my Sidekick and I go to the wedding photos from last September. It seems so long ago that Alicia and I got married. It was a beautiful wedding and we spent a wonderful honeymoon at the Bahamas after. So much has happened since then.

"Honey?" Alicia asks me softly as she starts to sit up in her bed.

"Hey, how are you feeling?" I ask.

"I am doing much better, still pretty tired but better, we didn't give our son a name yet, I've been thinking for some time, what about you?"

I realized that yea we didn't give him a name yet, he was born a few hours ago and Alicia was so exhausted that we didn't come to it.

"Uh, well, I've always thought Riley is a nice name"

Alicia smiled at me, "I've been thinking the same! Riley Michael Way."

I look down at her, "Michael for a middle name?"

"Yes! Of course! Your name needs to be in his name." She smiles.

I smile back and kiss her. Thats when we hear Riley start to cry. He is in his incubator next to the bed. I go over to him and dont know what to do because I can't hold him. Alicia presses the 'call nurse' button and soon enough a nurse comes in.

"Whats going on?" She asks. She goes over to Alicia but then Alicia points to me and Riley.

"I am okay, our baby is crying."

The nurse goes over to Riley and takes him out. She pats his back and checks him.

"Whats wrong with him?" I ask her.

"He is breathing very shallowly, I will ask the doctor if we can increase his oxygen."

I sigh, "Really? Will he be okay? What if he got asthma from me?" I start to panic.

"No, don't worry dear, he is premature and this happens when babies are early, we won't know if he has asthma until later in his life. If he does have it, please don't blame yourself."

I nod and try not to cry. How can I not blame myself? She's right though, I shouldn't worry about that now.

She puts Riley back in the incubator and goes to get the doctor. The doctor agrees to give him more oxygen and tells us everything is fine. His lungs are just not fully developed yet.

Its early February now and Riley and Alicia are able to go home. I am taking my little family home and I know that the guys have a surprise party in store at the apartment. Soon Alicia and I will have to get our own place. Right now I still live with Frank and honestly I dont think he wants to be awakened every night by Riley. Its just time for us to have our own place. Alicia is next to me in the passenger seat and is holding Riley who is all bundled up since it is pretty cold outside. He is much healthier now and is almost up to a normal weight, but is still pretty small for his age. I mean in reality he shouldn't even be born yet. The doctors said he will most likely be small for his age, and have some complications such as asthma and allergies. I pretty much expect it, I mean I have it pretty bad and since he is premature and all. I just hope he will be much healthier than me. Its funny, I really pretty much stopped smoking. I guess it just hit me that I really shouldn't and since Riley is here now I will not dare smoke anymore. It was just a stupid phase I went through. I guess just stress.

I pull up onto our street in West New York and up to the apartment. I get out and go around to open the door for Alicia. I help her up, since she is still pretty weak and walk her to the door. Once inside the apartment, everything is dark and quiet and I really hope the guys wont make a huge racket to surprise her and Riley, because Riley is still very young and is asleep.

The lights suddenly turn on and the band whispers 'Surprise!' There is a huge sign that says Welcome Riley and Welcome back Alicia. Alicia starts laughing and everyone comes up to see Riley. He wakes up and looks at everyone surprised and doesn't cry, thank goodness. We all have a good time and later everyone leaves except for Frank who goes off to his room. Alicia and I head to my room and put Riley in his crib Gerard got for us. We kiss him goodnight and go to bed, smiling at each other. The first of many nights to come as a family.

Chapter 55

(Mikey's P.O.V.)

"Just push Alicia, push!" I heard the nurse say to Alicia. She is halfway through the birth of our child and she is sweating up a storm and crying. She must be in a lot of pain. I try to keep a strong face for her, showing her that I am there for her. It gives her hope, you know, like she isn't being left alone. I hold her hand to comfort her and she is squeezing it soo hard! Jeez! She is strong!

She looks up to my eyes, "Mikey! Mikey! Oh it hurts!"

I swallow hard and grab her hand with my other arm as well, "Dont worry honey, its almost over, just look at me and push, push, thats it!"

"Alright, we're crowning!" The Doctor says.

I kind of didn't know what he meant by that so I take a little peek down there and yea, I turn away. Too much for my male eyes to handle.

I turn back to Alicia and smile. "Wow honey, you are stronger than any man I ever knew and when you say men dont know pain, you were so right, haha!" I start to laugh nervously and Alicia starts to panic because I basically directed her focus to the pain. She starts yelling and crying harder and I start to shake and the room gets all fuzzy. Before I know it I hit the hard cold ground and everything goes black.

(Frank P.O.V.)

"Thats it! I can't take it anymore! I've been waiting long enough for that stupid baby to come! The baby obviously doesn't want to come right now, so I can't wait for it! I am leaving, I need candy!" I get all fidgety and start to leave the room. Ray gets up and stops me though and puts me back in my seat by the collar of my shirt.

"What the hell man? Can't you have any courtesy for Mikey and Alicia? When you are having a baby, they would wait for you!" He glares at me and his fro looks as if its coming to life.

I back away, "Geez man, first of all, I will never have a baby, my wife will! Second, why would they care? I will leave and come back! Third! Get your fro outta my face! Its scaring the shit outta me!"

Ray rolls his eyes, "You idiot! It better! Just sit there and if you move, I will knock you down flat!"

"You would!"

"Shut it!"

Gerard comes up, "Please stop it you guys! At least do it for me, since I see what you're doing! Frankie please, put your fists down, Ray, thats not helping, I... what the fuck? Mikey!" Gerard runs off mid sentence to Mikey who is being dragged out by two male nurses or doctors, I couldn't tell. He seems to be out cold, I wonder what happened. Now I feel all shitty for being stupid and rude. I get up from my seat and I follow Ray and Gerard to Mikey while Bob slowly gets up confused. He was asleep.

"What happened?" Gerard asks the nurses or doctors, like I said, I couldn't tell.

"Well, it happens a lot, usually the husbands faint when they see whats going on to their wife's, you know um, area." He looks up at Gerard and Gerard stares back and then it clicks to him.

"Oh! Geez! Poor Mikey! Here, I'll take him. Thanks!" Gerard takes Mikey by the arm pits and then Ray comes up and helps him drag Mikey to the seats.

I just stare at the whole scenario.

5:34 am. 5:35am. 5:36 am. AHH, time is going by so slowly! What could be going on with Alicia? Is the baby and is she okay? Mikey is still out, we are actually in a room now so he can be in a bed. He probably fell asleep while passed out if thats even possible. Gerard has his head in his hands sitting in a chair next to Mikey's bed. Ray is sleeping in another chair with his mouth wide open and Bob is staring out the window. Outside its slowly getting brighter and I can tell that its snowing a lot. Then all of a sudden, the door opens and a doctor comes in.

"Hi, is he awake yet?" He asks.

Gerard lifts up his head and looks at the doctor, "No, is there something wrong with him?"

"Oh no, he is just fine, just exhausted, I just wanted to congratulate him. His son was just born and his wife is doing just fine. She wants to see him."

Gerard's face brightens up, "Really! A son! Wow! Um, Mikey, Mikey" He lightly pushes Mikey and slowly Mikey's eyes flutter open.

"What? Huh? Wait! What the hell happened? ALICIA!" Mikey throughs a fit and kicks off the covers and starts to get up.

Gerard stops him and calms him down.

"Its okay Mikey. She is fine. You just passed out thats all. We can all go see her now. You of all people. You have a son! He was just born." Gerard hugs Mikey. Mikey looks stunned. Gerard has to turn him around and guide him out the door, following the doctor to the recovery room where Alicia is. We all follow.

Finally we are showed into Alicia's room and she is sitting upright in bed holding a tiny baby and she is the most beautiful image I have ever seen. Mikey slowly goes towards her and sits down on the bed and looks at the tiny baby. The two look at each other for like five minutes and then the baby smiles and Mikey then kisses Alicia. I feel a tear rolling down my cheek from happiness but I quickly wipe it away because I never cry.

A Tale of Two Melodies

Chapter 54

(Mikey P.O.V.)

I enter Alicia’s room after the doctor lets me know that I can go in. Alicia looks pale, tired and is fast asleep. I go sit on her bed and kiss her gently on the cheek. Her eyelashes flutter open and when she notices me over her, her lips pull into a smile.

“Mikey!”

“Hey honey, how are you feeling?”

“Tired, but much better.”

“That’s great! I was so worried about you.”

“It was scary, but the baby is okay? Right?”

“Yes, the doctor told me that the baby is okay but that he will need to come soon, because the umbilical cord is around his neck.”

“Oh no! Now! But its 3 months early! Wait, he? A boy?”

I forgot that Alicia didn’t know the sex of the baby yet, and that we wanted it to be a surprise. The doctor just blurted it out to me when he was explaining the situation to me, but I was more concerned for the baby’s health.

“Yes, sorry honey, but the doctor told me, I shouldn’t of told you, I know you wanted it to be a surpise.”

“No, no, if you know I want to know too.” She cups my chin in the palm of her hand and tears fall out of her eyes.

“He will be beautiful, I bet he will look just like his father.”

I smile and lean in and give her a deep kiss. Outside, a light November snow starts to fall and I know, I just know that everything will be alright. My little family will be just fine.

(Gerard P.O.V.)

“Its gonna be alright Mikey” I take Mikey’s arm and try to get him to the waiting room with me and the guys. Alicia’s is being put into the delivery because the baby needs to come now or his health might get in even more danger. Alicia’s life is at stake as well, with all the added stress that this is causing her fragile body. Mikey looks shaken as he departs his wife. The doctors begin to push her bed to the delivery room and Mikey gives Alicia one last kiss and she looks up at him crying.

“Mikey! I am scared!”

“Don’t be, I am right here.”

Alicia grabs the doctors hand, “Wait, can he come in? Isn’t that allowed?”

The doctor looks at the nurses with him and they all nod, “Yes, it is fine, but only him. He is the father right?”

Alicia nods.

“Alright then, we just need you to wear a gown and mask.”

Mikey nods and follows, he turns to me and I give him a hug.

“I love you.” I whisper to him and he disappears with the love of his life through the swinging doors.

(Frank P.O.V.)

It feels like its been forever. We are all waiting in the boring hospital waiting room awaiting the news of the baby. I start getting fidgety as the time goes on. Its been like 4 hours now. I know it takes awhile, but still, I am so impatient. Ray notices me fidgetting.
“Just be patient little man.” He says to me.

“How can I be patient? You know me! I am the most hyper person ever and I need to do something! NOW!” I get up from my chair and start pacing. People in the room start staring.

Ray sighs, grabs my arm and yanks me back down.

“Settle down! For Alicia and Mikey! They will be super proud if they hear you didn’t make a fuss while waiting. They might even get you something.”

I think about this for a minute and stay quiet. I know its babyish, but Alicia always gets me cool stuff. Hehe.

(Mikey P.O.V.)

"Mikey!!!!!!! OWWW!!!"

"Its gonna be okay Alicia, dont worry, just hang in there!" I say to Alicia as we drive to the hospital. Its 4 in the morning and I was awaken by Alicia screaming in our bed. Apparently, she is having major contractions so I thought this a big sign to take her to the hospital. The only thing is, that she is 7 months in now. Its like 2 months to early. I hope the baby doens't want to come now, because it would be premature then. I turn to her as I run a red light. I mean, its four in the morning and there is barely anyone on the road. Even if I get caught by a cop, the situation is pretty obvious. My sidekick starts vibrating and I reach for it.

"Hello?"

"Mikey! How is Alicia? Where are you?" Gerard asks as I turn into the ER drop off.

"She is hanging in there, but is in obvious pain. Gerard, I think the baby is coming!" My voice cracks a little and Gerard hears my worry because he sighs.

"Mikey, dont worry about that now, just focus on the present. Alicia. She needs to get better and if it means the baby needs to come out, then that is what needs to happen."

"Yes, your're right. I just pulled in to the ER. Where are you guys?" I ask him as I stop the car and get out of the car. I run to the Alicia's side of the car.

"We are like 5 minutes away. Just take care of her and we will meet you."

"Okay. Bye."

I hang up and open the door and pick up a hysterical Alicia. She has her hands on her belly and is crying immensly. Her face shows much pain, so that only makes me go faster into the ER.

"HELP PLEASE!! She needs a doctor!" I yell as I enter carrying her.

A bunch of nurses come over and some bring a rolling bed. They help me put her on the bed.

"Whats going on sir?" A woman asks.

"She is having pain or contractions. It started in the middle of the night."

"How far along is she?"

"7 months."

"Okay we will take care of her."

They start to take her away and she grabs my hand and looks at me nervously. "Mikey?"

"Its okay honey, they will help you, I will be right here okay?"

"I love you!"

"I love you too!"

She lets go of my hand and disappears behind double swinging doors.

I push my hands through my hair and take a breath. One of the nurses comes up to me and gives me some paper work on her medical history and all that. I sit down and look around the room. There are people here and there some look pretty bad and some have mild injuries. There are also a lot of babies. Then there is this family, two little boys and their parents probably. The whole scene is familiar to me. The younger looking boy is obviously having a bad asthma attack. He can't catch his breath at all and is crying in the mean time, well at least trying to cry. He is in the lap of his mother and his father looks stressed filling out the strenous paperwork. The older looking boy now and then gives the little boy a puff from an inhaler. He is very mature looking for his age, probably around 8. The younger boy looks like 5. The older boy very carefully administers the medicine to the little boy by telling him to pace himself and to exhale and inhale and all that. It reminds me exactly like a situation I was in when I was little. Gerard did the same thing to me. He has always been there for me. Speaking of Gerard, I turn around and he is sitting right next to me and looking at the same scene I am. He smiles at me.

"Looks familiar huh?" He asks.

"Yea, you remember?"

"How could I not. It was one of the scariest moments of my life."

"Why can't they take him to the ICU? He's suffocating."

"I dont know, maybe they are so full you know? Not enough doctors, too many patients. I mean it does look pretty full now."

"Yea, you're right." I couldn't help but feel bad for the kid. His fingernails started turning blue, a big sign of a severe attack. I sigh.

"I can't take this! He needs to be helped!" I get up and go over to them.

Gerard looks suprised and turned to the guys as they came in through the front doors.

I kneel down to the kid and looked at the family.

"I have an epi-pen. I am sure it will help him."

The mother and father both looked at me but the older of the boys kept helping the younger boy pace himself. I noticed that the younger boys eyes start to roll back. He's passing out.

"Oh! No English! Uh, help him you can?" The mother asks.

Shit, they dont speak English. No wonder no one is helping him.

"I will be back." I tell them. I go over to the nurse's desk.

"Excuse me, but why isn't that young boy in the ICU? He's passing out!"

The nurse looks up at me, "They have not finished the paper work yet."

"What the hell!!!!??? Neither have I? He is dying!"

The nurse gives me a disgruntled look, "Look, when he got here, he was having a mild attack okay! There was no room for him! There still isn't any room for him!"

In shock at her words I go to my bag, get my epi-pen and go back over to the boy. I take off the cap and administer to him through his leg. Immediately after a few seconds, the kid's eyes open up again and he takes a wheezy breath. His mom starts crying and hugs him. The father keeps thanking me and also hugs the boy. The older looking boy looks straight at me and whispers thank you and closes his eyes as I notice tears coming out them.

I sigh and smile, "This should help for a few minutes, at least until he can go in to the ICU."

They smiled at me probably not knowing what I said, then I realize them speaking French to each other. FRENCH!! I call Gerard over.
"Gerard they speak French! You know a little French! Can you tell them that he should be fine for a few minutes now because of the epi-pen.?"

Gerard smiles at me, "I'll try." He starts speaking to them as my name is called.

"Mr. Way?"

My heart stops as I realize why I am here in the first place. The whole asthma attack scene I guess was an outlet to help me cope with Alicia's condition.

I go over.

"Yes?"

"Your wife is stable now and is no longer having conditions, but the baby has to be delivered soon."

"What? Really?"

"Yes, the baby is in distress because the umbilical cord is wrapped around his neck."

"HIS neck?"

"Yes, oh, you didn't know the sex of the baby?"

"No, we wanted it to be a surprise."

"Ohh, I am so sorry, but yes, he needs to be delivered soon."

I blink several times as I get it all in. A boy! A baby boy! Distress? Umbilical cord wrapped around his neck!! Born soon!!! I feel my own lungs start to close up as I face whats to come.

Chapter 52

(Mikey P.O.V.)

What the hell happened? Wait? I am at home? In my bed? Hmm, the last thing I remember was smoking outside the airport. Oh yea, smoking. My stupid habit. Yea, thats when Gerard got so pissed. Thats when he knocked me out cold. The first time ever in our lives this happened. I mean, yea, we fight and we used to fight physically a lot when we were younger, but never have we seriously injured or knocked out each other before. I guess I deserved it though. I mean, here I am still smoking after all the times I said that I will stop. Its terrible. I hate it and I am really stuck now. I want to quit before the baby comes. And thats like a few months from now. I really need to think this through and seriously.

I slowly get up and I get a whiplash feeling through my head.

"Geez, ow!" I rub where I was punched. Right above my right eye on my forehead. Thats when I notice that my glasses are broken.

"Shit! Not again! How many times am I gonna get these broken?!" I get up without them and risk the blurriness. I walk over to the door with my hands in front. I am not that blind that I cant see a thing, but when I dont have my glasses on, I cant see things 5 feet in front of me, so its kind of annoying. I am really thinking of getting some laser surgery someday. That way, I dont have to worry about this anymore.

I open the door and go out into the hallway that leads out into our living room. I see 5 blurry figures around the room so I figure everyone is over.  I make my way over and sit next to Alicia. She gives me a hug.

"Hey sweety, how are you?"

"Okay, its just my glasses are broken. Heh, again."

Alicia sighs and gives me another hug, "Ohh, honey, its okay, we will get another and better for your."

I smiled at her sweetness, "As long as its Ray Ban, but until then I will wear my Chanel ones, by the way where are they?"

"Um, I think they are in the bathroom linen closet. Dont ask me why they are there."

I laugh, "Um, the cats stole it?"

Everyone laughed. I mean, I really always wanted a cat, or more so, cats. And one thats named Bunny, heh, I dont why. Alicia doesn't really know if its okay if we have cats, because my asthma, but I keep telling her that I dont think animals, mostly cats bother me and that if we can at least try it. If it wont work, I am sure Frank will take care of it.

"I am glad you're feeling better, Mikey." Frank says as he gives me as he sips his coffee.

"Do you want some, oh wait, why should I even ask, of course you do." Ray asks.

I laugh and I notice Gerard staring at me. He seems very sad and distressed. I get up and motion him to follow me. We go over to the hallway away from everyone else and he starts to break down.

"I am so sorry." He puts his head in his hands.

Then I hug him.

Chapter 51

(Frank P.O.V.)

"Where the hell did Gerard go?" I asked the guys as I looked around the baggage claim area. The guys shrugged and started for the exit. I followed them and noticed them staring at something outside. Once I got out, I saw Gerard and Mikey fighting very intensly like I have never seen them fight before. I, also stopped and stared, not knowing what to do.

"Do you guys know what this is all about?" I asked.

"Well, it seems to be about Mikey's smoking habit. I guess Gee finally confronted him about it." Ray said.

I sighed. Man, oh man. This isn't good. I mean its good if Gerard talks to him about the problem, but from what I see, it isn't actually talking that he is doing, but yelling. Mikey has a very distresssed look on his face and looks like he is about to cry. He throws down his cigarette that he must of just lighted moments ago, because it is still new looking. He turns around and starts to walk away from Gerard but Gerard grabs him by the back of his hair. Mikey yelps in surprise. Then Gee knocks him out! My heart leaps to my throat as Mikey's eyes roll to the back of his head and he slowly falls down to the ground in slow motion. His head hits the dirty cement with a small crack and I wince at the nasty sound.

"GERARD!" Bob yells and runs towards the scene.

"What the hell?" Ray yells and also makes his way over. He kneels down next to Mikey's limp body and lifts his head from the ground.

"Whythe hell would you do this to him?" Ray looks up at Gee's horrified face.

Gerard just stares down at Mikey and runs away. He runs to a taxi and gets in. The taxi speeds away.

Now, what the fuck was that about? I go over to Bob and Ray and look down at Mikey.

"Is he okay?" I ask. Ray feels the back of Mikey's head and thankfully there is no blood. He is breathing rapidly but not as bad as it could usually get.

"I think so. Just knocked out cold for a bit."

"Hey guys! Wait up" Alicia runs towards us then she stops at the sight of Mikey unconcious on the floor.

"OMG! What happened? Mikey?" She gets on the floor and hugs him and starts to cry.

"What happened? Tell me!!"

I sighed, "Well, apparently Mikey and Gerard got in a huge fight, and Gerard knocked him out cold."

Alicia made a face and hugged Mikey. "What the fuck is Gerard's problem, how could he knock him out? He never did that before. I know sometimes the two of them fight, but Gerard never phyically hurt Mikey!"

"I know, its wierd, he's just been stressed out because Mikey is still smoking. I mean, did you talk to him about it?"

Alicia cradled Mikey's head in her lap as she sat the concrete floor, "Well, yes I did, he promised me he would quit by the time the baby comes."

I raised my eyebrows, "Really? Well did you tell Gerard that?"

"No, not yet, he just told me a few minutes ago."

"Well you should tell him, so he doesn't feel like he has to take care of it, I mean its good that he does, but he really needs to relax before he gets hurt himself. And, of course before he hurts Mikey again."

Alicia nodded. Ray began to help lift Mikey off the floor with the help of Bob.

"Lets get him home in a warm bed." Ray says and I help them all lift Mikey up.

About an hour and a half later, we are all settled in Mikey's and Alicia's new apartment. We put Mikey in his bed to sleep it off. He started to talk in his sleep and sometimes cry, which I thought it was wierd, but I guess he is going to wake up soon. Alicia made us all coffee, which by the way, I have to mention is the best coffee ever. I guess she just needed to really learnd to make good coffee because living with Mikey and all, she probably has to make a lot. Ray and Bob are playing Guitar Hero and Alicia is sitting on a love seat staring into space with a steaming cup of coffee in her hands. Poor Alicia, so much has been going on with her and Mikey lately. She must be so tired and stressed out, with the baby coming and all. Alicia rubbed her belly absentmindedly. She does that often. I hope she is alright. Her belly is now like a little soccer ball. I am really excited for the baby to arrive. About a few months now. My phone buzzes.

"Hello?"

"Hey, its Gee, um, I just want to know if Mikey is okay."

I give a look to everyone and mouth, 'Its Gerard' They all stop what they are doing.

"Um, hey Gee, well, I think he's alright, still out of it, but in his bed now. What happened?"

I hear Gerard sigh on the other end of the line, "I dont know, I just got really pissed off."

"Well I can see that."

"Um, where are you guys?"

"At Mike's place.

"Oh."

"Do you want to come by?"

"I would like to, but probably Alicia doesn't want me to, and Mike when he gets up."

I look at Alicia, "He wants to come over, is that alright"

She nods.

"Well, Alicia says its fine, and you will have to apologize to Mikey anyways. So, come on over."

"Okay, I am on my way."

Chapter 50

(Gerard P.O.V.)

We finally arrive to the Newark International Airport in New Jersey and we are all just ready to pass out. The flight wasn't so bad but I couldn't keep getting Mikey's situation out of my head. I was trying to figure out a way to solve this issue but I just didn't know what to do because we've been down this road before. Well now Alicia and Mikey have their own place in West New York, a small apartment facing the city on the Jersey side, so its gonna be harder to talk to him about it. I am sure Alicia will do her part as well.

"Yo Gee, you ready to go?" Ray asks me as we get our bags at the baggage claim.

I snap out of my thoughts and laugh, "Ohh, heh, yea."

I look over at Alicia and Mikey and they are involved in some funny conversation because they are both laughing very hard. Mikey kisses Alicia and whispers something in her ear and then walks outside. I follow him to a bench outside. He pulls out a cigarette and lights it. He seems to have a hard time lighting the cigarette.

"Need help with that light?" Mikey looks up startled with huge eyes behind his thick framed glasses.

"Oh, GEE! You scared me!"

"Why would I scare you, should I not be here or something?"

Mikey looks around and sighs, "Uh, no, not at all. Of course you can sit here. Whats your problem?"

He finally lights the cigarette and inhales a drag.

"Um, maybe my problem is that you are SMOKING?"

Mikey inhales another drag and rolls his eyes at me and looks at the traffic of taxis and hotel shuttles in front of him.

"WHY THE HELL ARE YOU ROLLING YOUR EYES AT ME!!!" I yell at him very pissed off.

Mikey gets up and starts walking away.

This really pisses me off. I walk after him and pull him back by his hair. He yelps and drops the cigarette on the floor.

"What the hell Gerard? What is your fucking problem? Why do you always have to baby me?"

"My fucking problem is that you are smoking again Mikey, after you said that you are over the problem. Do you not get it Mikey that smoking can kill you?"

"Well smoking doesn't always kill Gerard, you smoke remember!"

"Um, yea thats true, but you are ASTHMATIC MIKEY!!!"

Mikey gives me the glare again, "See, you are babying me again! I know that I am fucking asthmatic. I am the one suffering everyday, not you. Its my choice that I want to smoke okay? I like it and I dont care. Its not affecting me anymore."

I sigh, "Mikey, can you not even hear your own wheezing? I can hear it a mile away!"

Mikey takes out another cigarette and lights it, he inhales a wheezy drag and coughs out the smoke.

"Whatever." Is all he says.

For some reason, at this moment I get sooo angry with him that I do something that I would have never ever done before in my life.

I knock him out.

Chapter 49

(Mikey P.O.V.)

"Mikey? Its time to get up." I open my eyes slowly and see the blurry silhouette of Alicia. I groan and turn over pulling the covers over me. She sighs and tugs the covers off of me.

I yelp in surprise, "Alicia!" She laughs. I search blindly for my glasses and she puts them in my hand.

"There you go you little mole."

"Hey! I am no mole!"

"Yes you are, but you are cute that way." Alicia grabs my cheeks and talks to me like if I was 4. I sigh. I look at the bedside clock and it reads 5 am. Geez. Way, way to early for me. I slowly get up and put a baggy, wrinkled t-shirt on. I walk over to the door and open it slowly, hence the loud creaking from the old door. I make my way out of the room and towards the bathroom. Of course someone is in there. Darn it. I really have to pee! I lean against the wall next to the bathroom and slowly slide down from the old carpet slipping on the hardwood floor. I make my way upright again and tap my feet in annoyance. I bet its Frank in there. He always takes forever in there. Its like he has to change a tampon or something. I knock on the door.

"Yea? Just a minute!" Of course, its Frank.

"Frank hurry up man! I have to take a leak!"

He opens the door and gives me a glare while whiping his mouth.

"You okay man? Did you just throw up?"

Frank looks at his feet. "Yea, I just didn't feel good. But I am better now."

I raise my eyebrows, "Okay." I make my way inside the bathroom and shut the door behind me. After doing my business, I turn on the shower and step inside. The warm water soothes my back and I take the time to relax before our hectic trip home.

(Gerard P.O.V.)

"Good morning honey." I whisper to Colette. She yawns and smiles while she stretches her arms out. I give her a morning kiss and she hugs me tightly.

"I love you Gerard! I am so happy! When did you plan all this?"

"Well, I've been thinking about it for a while now. I just thought you would like the way I did it. Did you?"

"Oh yes! I will most definently never forget last night."

I smile at her and get up. "Well, I guess I better get ready for the trip home." Colette looks saddened by this and looks at her feet as she pulls them up to her chest.

"Oh, come on sugar, dont worry, we will be together again soon." She nods and doesn't look up.

I go over to her and kiss her on the cheek and wipe a tear away from her cheek.

"Dont worry. I promise." She smiles slightly and I make my way to the bathroom. When I get there I hear the shower running, so I decide to get some coffee until whoever is in the bathroom is done.

(Ray P.O.V.)

I notice Gerard coming into the kitchen with strange look on his face. I pour myself some more coffee.

"Would you like some coffee Gee? Why am I asking, of course you do. I made a lot, since Mikey is gonna drink some. Whats wrong?"

Gerard sits at the table and grabs the coffee mug I give him.

"Whats wrong?" I ask again.

Gerard pauses for a moment and then looks up at me. "Well two things are bothering me right now."

"Really? What is it?"

"Well, first, I am really apprehensive to leave Colette here. She is really depressed about it and I want her to know that it will be alright, but I just dont know how to let her know that. Second, Mikey is still smoking. He has been doing it secretly, but Alicia told me.In the middle of the night I could hear that his breathing was so bad, even from Colette's room. I went over there and thats when Alicia came out in tears not knowing what to do. She told me that she knew he is still smoking."

I sighed, "Whoa, well thats a shit load. heh."

Gerard runs his hands through his hair, "Yea tell me about it. I dont know what to do! Sometimes I just want to strangle his stupid, skinny ass!"

"You don't mean that."
"Well he is killing himself! Is he that fucking stupid?"

I paused, "Uh, maybe? hah, no! Of course not! He is just addicted to it, just like you and I am. Its just worse for him because of his asthma, but maybe its not that bad. I mean, he seemed to be fine lately, I didn't notice him having any major problems."

"Yea, same here, thats what makes me so damn mad! Its like, I didn't even notice! Mikey is slowly killing himself, I hope unintentionally, but I didn't even notice!"

I get up from my chair to grab some more coffee and sigh, "Hmm, well lets keep a closer eye on him now. I am sure its nothing big but we will be careful."

Gerard nods as he takes a sip from his coffee.

"Now, about Colette, just go with the flow. You both love each other, so don't worry about it. Just let her get things settled here and then she will come to NJ. Does she want to live in NJ?"

"Yes, she really does. I just think she is afraid that we will lose each other's commitment and love while we are apart."

"Well then, this is a good test to see how much you truly love each other. Its no big deal Gerard. I can totally see you guys married and expecting a few months from now in a nice house in NJ."

Gerard smiles, "Thanks man, thanks so much."

"Anytime."

(Frank P.O.V.)

Damn! I can't believe Mikey noticed me throwing up. I mean its not like I am bulimic or anything. I just really dont feel well. Ever since I had mono in high school, I've been sick a lot. I don't like it when people notice though. I don't know how Mikey can stand when everyone huddles him when he is sick. It would drive me nuts. So, that is why, when I get a damn stomach virus or something, I don't like it when someone notices. I am the type of guy who doesn't like people babying me. And, come to face it, when you get sick, people baby you. I guess that is just the way human nature works.

After dressing and finishing my packing for the trip I smell the all too familiar scent of tobacco. Hmm, what I would do for a smoke right now.

The smell is coming from outside the window of the room I am in. I take a peek outside and I see Mikey down in the back yard smoking.

SMOKING?!

"Yo! Mikes! What you doing?" I yell down at him. He looks up startled and puts his hand over his heart from the scare and then curses.

"What the fuck man? You scared the shit out of me! You could of give me a nice morning attack!"

"Uh, well smoking will do that. Why the hell are you smoking?"

Mikey put the cigarette out with his foot and coughed out some smoke.

"I am smoking because I want to."

"Okay then!" I yell back at him sarcastically. Geez, what is his problem? I thought he got over the whole smoking problem. I better go down and tell Gerard. I hull my bag down the stairs and drop it next to the other luggage. I head to the kitchen where it seems that everyone is, except Mikey, Alicia, and Francois, who is probably sleeping.

"Hey Gerard, can I speak to you?" I ask Gerard who is just staring at his coffee mug with Colette next to him, also looking out of it.

He glances at me, "Uh, yea, what is it Frankie?"

"Well, I saw Mikey smoking outside? Did you know this?"

Gerard sighs, "Yes I know, I will talk with him."

"Okay." I leave the it there, not wanting to aggravate Gerard. He looks pretty upset and if he gets mad, well we are in for a ride.

(Alicia P.O.V.)

Finally. I finish packing. Most of it is all Mikey's stuff. I try to zip his bag shut and am confronted with his all too familiar BO.

Ugg! That smells! I will most definently wash these when we get home.

The baby kicks. 

"Whoa honey, you seem to be pretty excited huh? Yup, we are going home to good old Jersey. Its funny, I didn't know about you when we were in Jersey. I can't wait for you to come! I.."

"Hey honey." Mikey interrupts.

I look up embarrased, "Oh hi! Um, yea, I finished the packing, including yours, you lazy bum!" I kick him playfully in the shins. He yelps and starts laughing and comes to tackle me. I scream and try to go under the bed from him, but he catches my leg and starts making out with it.

"Mikey! Stop it!" I laugh uncontrollably.

Mikey stops and looks at me and rubs my tummy. He puts his ears to my tummy and starts talking. "Hey there little guy? You bet you will be a badass bassist! With the parents of two really awesome bass players! Yes you will be! Yes you will!"

I laugh, "Mikey, dont cuss in front of the baby. I dont want him having a foul mouth. Mikey looks up at me and smiles. He coughs and gets up. He starts to cough uncontrollably.

"You okay honey?" I ask scared. He takes out his inhaler, shakes it and then takes a puff. He closes his eyes and smiles.

"Just fine. I guess some dust got in my lungs from the floor."

I sigh and nod. "Honey we really need to talk."

(Bob P.O.V.)

"Alright guys, lets get going!" I say to everyone, once our bags are all in the taxi. Make that two taxis. Everyone makes their way outside. Colette's family comes outside to say bye. Delphine, Colette's mother is holding a sleepy Francois and Adrian, her father, is talking to the taxi drivers. Frank and Ray get into one taxi and Mikey and Alicia get into another. Gerard is still at the doorway with Colette. They embrace and I really feel sorry. It must be hard for them to depart. Colette cries a little but then smiles and Gerard makes his way over to the car with Mikey in it. I smile at Colette and then head into the other taxi with Ray and Frank. After waving and saying goodbye, we depart for the airport of Paris.

Chapter 48

(Gerard P.O.V.)

Its been a week since Mikey and Alicia were in the hospital. We found out Alicia is actually two months pregnant. We still dont know the sex of the baby yet. Frank said it would be fun to leave it as a surprise, but Mikey and Alicia want to prepare a room for the baby in their apartment. I suggested to them to paint the room white and black, with music notes persay, because I've heard that contrasting colors like those are good for the baby's development. Of course Alicia liked it, but Mikey was still with the blue or pink idea. I don't know, I'll just let them decide. And how awesome is that that they are getting married? Its terrific! They are planning the wedding for September, after Mikey's birthday.

I finish packing the things I need for the concert, which is tonight and watch Colette silently as she cleans her room and puts laundry together. She is so beautiful. I hope maybe one day we can get married, and perhaps have a kid together. She notices me staring and smiles embarrased.

"What are you looking at silly?" She asks.

"Oh nothing, you are so beautiful you know that?"

She blushes and throws my clean laundry at me.

"Hey! Now I have to fold them!" I complain.

"Yes you do! I am not your servant!" She says playfully. I laugh and start folding my clothes.

(Alicia P.O.V.)

I help Mikey get ready for the show and I am still not convinced that he is okay to perform. He is still wheezing constantly. Its low and quiet but its definently there.

"But, what if you have another attack on stage, like last time?"

Mikey sighes, "I'll be fine Alicia. Really! If I start feeling bad, I'll just walk off the stage and rest a bit."

I nodded in defeat as he continued stuffing his suitcase.

"You don't have to pack that yet."

"I know, I just want to be prepared. Since we leave tomorrow. Geez, it never closes!!!" He leaned on top of the suitcase and zipped it shut with the help of his added body weight. I laughed at the familiar scene. He always packs like this.

"Its because you don't pack right honey." I say as I kiss his neck.

Mikey sighs, "Yea, you're right. Maybe you can teach me to pack nicely one day." He says as he places his hands around my waist. I feel blood rush to my face at his soft touch. We bring our lips together and kiss softly. We look deep into each others eyes and Mikey whispers, "We are going to be parents!"

(Frank P.O.V.)

We are now at the venue for our Paris show. It took us about an hour and a half to get here but we were all happy just to relax during the ride. I feel a littel clammy now, I probably got sick from all this stress. But wow, Colette really saved the day, didn't she.

"Yo Frank? You want to go over the solos?" Ray asks.

"Yea sure, be right there. Just need to get my guitar together."

"Kk!" Ray goes out of the dressing room.

I notice Mikey comes in and plugs in his nebulizer and sits on the couch.

"You alright?"

He looks up at me and nods.

"Yes, I just dont want an attack during the show."

"Yea, that wouldn't be good."

Mikey's eyes go wide at the thought. Alicia comes in then and sits next to Mikey. She hugs him while he inhales the neb mist.

I get my guitar and follow Ray to the stage to warm up.

Once I get to just outside the stage I notice that Ray didn't go out.

"Whats up?"

Ray turns to me, "Well, we already have an audience building up so we should just warm up in the dressing room."

"Yea, okay."

We make our way back to the dressing room and I can faintly hear people chanting MCR, MCR.

(Colette P.O.V.)

I make my way around the huge crowds of people gathering in the arena. I try to make my way backstage and push my way through the mosh pit of the hall.

"Excusez moi." I keep repeating. Everyone is soooo excited and I couldn't be more proud of the boys. They really have become one of the best bands in the world. When I get to the backstage door, I show my VIP pass, which is very cool by the way, and go into the dressing room.

I catch Gee putting on his pants and stuffing his boxers into them.

"Oh, Gee, hehee, do you need some help?"

Gee turns around white in the face, most likey from some added make-up and embarrasment. "Oh, haha! I got it! But can you help with my make-up? I don't know where the make-up person is."

"Sure, I'd love to."

I pull up a chair next to his by the big mirrors and he gives me his make-up box. I open it and take out black eyeliner.

"So, you already put on the powder right?"

He nods and starts smoothing it out while looking in the mirror. I take out a red eyeliner also and black eye shawdow.

"Okay, let me put the black eyeliner on first."

He sits and faces me and I hold the left side of his face with my left hand and apply the liner on his eyes.

"Look up." I say. He looks up and starts to get all teary.

"Aww, you have sensitive eyes."

"No, I dont!"

"Okay, geez."

He keeps blinking which makes it really difficult for me to apply the liner on straight.

"GEE! STOP BLINKING OR YOU WILL LOOK LIKE YOU HAVE TWO BLACK EYES!!!!"

Gee sighed and held them open. When I finally got a result, I added red to the edge of the black. After that, I dabbed black powder on his lids and underneath his eyes.

"Okay, you now officially look dead."

Gee looked in the mirror and smiled.

"Great, thanks. You're awesome."

I smiled. He then started to fix his hair and I helped by styling it with his favorite BED HEAD TIGI hairspray. (the stuff rocks btw!)

I looked at his final appearance. "You are one hot guy!"

He lauged and started kissing me.

"Hon! All your powder is coming off!" I fixed his face and we held hands and sat, waiting for the call to go on stage. Gee started warming up his voice. I watched Alicia and Mikey. Alicia took Mikey's neb away and started putting it away in its box. Mikey pushed his hands through his hair and did some breathing exercises I taught him. It helps relieved Francois when his asthma acts up. I smiled as he did them. Wow, he actually listened to me. He then went over to the mirror and turned on his hair straightener and started applying eyeliner to his bottom lids. Frank came over and started coloring his face the usual way he does it for shows. Bob and Ray are chatting by the door awaiting the stage manager. Mikey starts straightening his hair flat to his face. I wonder why he does that. He looks good with fluffy hair too. (Dontcha think?)

I am really excited for their marriage and baby. I am also a bit jealous. I would love to be married and have kids with Gee. But I don't know if he feels the same way. Alicia is actually starting to show a little bit. Its really cute. Just a tiny bump. She's constantly holding her tummy and I wonder if its because it hurts or because of the baby. I have to ask. She has had her fair share of morning sickness and pretty soon the first tri-mester will be over. The baby will be due in March and after talking the other night with her, we figured out she became pregnant in June, the time the band was in New York and when I met Gee. It is late August now and basically the summer is over and after this show, the guys and Alicia are going back to New Jersey. I have to stay though. Whcih is really killing me. I have some things to do here for a bit, but hopefully I can come to NJ soon. I dont know how long I can stay away from Gee. But does he feel the same about me?"

(Gerard P.O.V.)

"Alright guys, ready?" The stage manager asks. We all get up and make our way to the stage. I notice Mikey putting his inhaler in his pocket. Good, that should last him. I really think he should be fine though, I hope. Once on the stage, the crowd go wild. Alicia and Colette are on the side of the stage watching. I blow a kiss to Colette and she catches it and puts it to her heart. Alicia giggles and whispers something to Colette. Hmm, I wonder what.

"How you guys doing?" I yell at the top of my lungs to the Parisian crowd.

They scream back and a mosh starts forming in the pit.

"Commet ca va Paris? (How are you Paris?)

Some of the crowd yells back something like 'We love you Gerard Way' among other things.

"Une belle femme qui est d'ici m'a enseigné un français et je voudrais lui demander quelque chose." (A beautiful woman who is from here has taught me some French and I would like to ask her something.)

The crowd went wild and started babbling in French which I couldn't comprehend. I have been practicing this line for weeks, and thats pretty much the most I know. I turn to Colette and I wave for her to come out. She looks at me and then at Alicia who has her hands over her mouth. Most likely, Colette told her what I said. Colette makes her way onstage and and I hold both of her hands and kneel. Colette starts to get teary eyed and smiles down at me. She puts one hand over her mouth as I say, "Allez faire vous vous marier avec moi, ma belle Colette?" (Will you marry me, my beautiful Colette?) Colette starts to cry and says, "Oui!" (Yes) and the whole crowd goes nuts. I pick Colette up into a hug and the band starts playing "Here comes the Bride"  which kinda surprised me, because I didn't tell them that they needed to. heh! I put Colette down and she walked off stage with her hand lifted up so Alicia could see the diamond ring I placed on her hand. SOOO CUTE!!!!!!!!!

Chapter 47

(Gerard P.O.V.)

Well, its now close to noon at La Rochelle hospital. I have to meet that asshole by midnight at the same factory. What could he possibly want? He wants to get even? Its so dumb! Well, I have to meet him or I don't know what will happen. I am so glad we got Mikey and Alicia out of that nasty situation. As we all eat the lunch Colette and I brought into the room I look at my little brother. He has matured so much. I can tell he was scared, but he showed many signs of bravery and maturity that I didn't see him exhibit before. He smiles at something Frank is telling him as he eats his turkey sandwich. His face is all bruised and there are remnants of nasty cuts he recieved from being held hostage. His right eye is black and swollen. It is closed and probably will be for a while. His right cheek has a big gash that had to be stiched up. We all hope it wont leave any scars. His left side of his mouth is also cut and swollen. His nose is also broken so right when we arrived here, the paramedic had to crack it in place. Poor Mikey was in soo much distress, the added pain caused him to faint. His nose is in a little white cast now. The doctors told me that his asthma was pretty bad. He stopped breathing twice during the time he was taken away by the doctors to the ICU because his airways were completely closed. The doctors managed to get them open again and since then he has and seems to be fine. He needs more neb treatments than usual but he should make a good recovery. I make my way over to him where Frank and Colette are and sit by his side.

"How ya doing?" I ask.

"I am doing okay I guess. I feel dizzy and tired buy my chest isn't as tight as it was earlier."

"Thats good. You're probably dizzy because of all the meds. Why dont you and Alicia get some rest. We can leave you two alone for awhile."

Mikey thought for a second and agreed. After everyone was all finished with lunch, we left Mikey and Alicia to rest. The nurses came back in to give Mikey another treatment and to check both his and Alicia's vitals.

We all took a cab home and just hung out at Colette's until it got dark. I stayed up late waiting to leave. The plan was for me to go ahead with Frank, Ray and Bob behind me, once we arrive. I had to basically force Colette to stay home with her family.

"Honey, I will be okay, I promise."

I told her while running my hands through her silky, long dark hair.

She sniffled a sob and just nodded.

"Its just not fair! Why? Why do all these stupid and bad things have to happen to you guys?"

I sighed, "Well I guess it comes with being in a band thats well-known, you know? I mean we get many fans but I am sure we have people who dont like us too, like the guys who took Alicia and Mikey."

"Yes, I know, but it shouldn't have to go like this. We could call the police?"

"No honey, they might suspect that and who knows what they would do."

"Okay, just be careful. I will be waiting up for you."

We kissed each other lightly and she sat down on the couch. Frank, Ray and Bob came out of the kitchen with Adrian and Delphine, who held a sleepy Francois. She went up the stairs to put him to bed.

"Well if you guys aren't back by the morning, I will get help okay?" Adrian said.

"Thanks sir, but dont worry, we will be back."

He smiled back and gave me his car keys.

"Do you know the way?"

"Yes, I do, I remember."

"Alright, be careful."

With that we all got in the car and left. I could just make out a crying Colette in the window as Bob pulled out of her driveway.

(Frank P.O.V.)

It is ten minutes before midnight when we arrive at the fish factory. Bob parks in a tree covered area just a little walk from the factory, so we can stay hidden. He turns off the engine. Gerard makes his way out of the car and Ray puts a hand on his shoulder.

"Wait Gee, when should we go in after you?" he asks.

Gerard pauses, "uh, how about after fifteen minutes. Just make your presence unknown until you need to."

We all nod and he gets out of the car, puts his hands in his pockets and his jacket hood over his head as it starts to rain. He darts inside and I truly admire his courage.

(Gerard P.O.V.)

I make my way over to the rusty, old door of the factory and when I get there I open the door and step inside. Inside its very dark but I can hear voices and I see a small light coming from the other room. I hate this place. It smells, its dirty and Alicia and Mikey were kept hostages here. Not to mention its the hideout for these idiots.

"Well well, I thought you wouldn't show." The one I came to meet said.

"Lets just get this over with." As the group came into view I made my way into the dimly lit room heavy with cigarette smoke.

"Dont be too hasty now Mr. Way. We have important business to conduct."

"Oh? And what may that be?"

The man stood up and made his way closer to me. He looked deep into my eyes and I could smell a faint scent of alcohol on his breath.

"Your life, for a contract for us."

I froze. Was he serious? I mean, he couldn't do that. Thats a threat!

"You must clearly be out of your mind!" I yelled.

He laughed, "Yes, I must be. So whats the decision Way?" One of the gand members took out a gun and smirked. I didn't know what to do. I can't give them a contract! Only a record company can do that.

"What can I do? I can't give you a contract, you know that."

The man cocked his head to the side, "Well under the circumstances, I think you can."

I couldn't breathe, what does he want me to do?

"Okay, just tell me what to do." I sighed.

"Great, I am glad you're cooperating. Now all you need to do is sign this form."

He took out a piece of paper and a pen. I took it from him and read the words. My eyes stopped at a particular sentence.

'Mr. Gerard Arthur Way has agreed to give the lead singer of The Firestarters his lead position and My Chemical Romance's position in the music industry, therefore causing the retirement of My Chemical Romance.'

"WHAT? Thats not giving you a contract! Thats giving you my LIFE!!!!"

The man laughed, "Exactly, thats exactly what you did to me three years ago when my band was about to get the label, but instead you did. Don't you remember? Or are you too thickheaded to remember something like that?"

I looked at the floor and tried to remember who the hell this guy was, then it hit me.

"Cody Watson. You're Cody Watson and you were in the band The Firestarters."

                          (Flashback)

"Alright now Mr. Way, I am pleased to say that we will give you and My Chemical Romance a record label. You were running up against The Firestarters but we feel that My Chemical Romance is a better recipient for the label."

I can't believe what I was hearing. The director of a record company just gave My Chemical Romance a record label. I turned around to face the guys. They all looked at me apprehensively and I gave them a thumbs up. Then they all started to jumping up and down and cheering. I then saw them, the other band who were also about to get the label, but instead we got it. I could imagine how they felt. One of the guys came up to me.

"Thanks for taking my life away. You will pay, I promise you."

I was just a little confused by this as he walked away. The director put his hand on my shoulder and sighed.

"They are really a good band, its just he kind of used his illness as an excuse for us to give him a label."

I looked at the director.

"Illness?"

"Yes, he has leukemia and should only have about a year or so left."

I paused.

"Oh, thats terrible."

"Yes, it really is, but I encouraged him not to be in a band with his time. He needs to be with his family, in my opinion."

"Yes, I agree."

"Well congratz again!"

                    (END)

"I thought you were dying?"

"Hmm, I assume that excuse for a director told you huh? Well apparently I didn't, didn't I? Now sign the damn paper and give me back what is mine."

His friend with the gun came closer and pointed it at me. I hesitated and fell to my knees to sign the paper on the floor. Just when I was about to sign it I heard a voice.

"Hold it right there!"

Colette. She was standing in front of a confussed Frank, Bob, and Ray with a gun in her hand, pointing it at Cody.

"COLETTE!!" I yelled.

She didn't avert her gaze and just kept her gun pointed at Cody.

"Now, now cherie, we don't want anyone getting hurt now do we?"

Colette looked at the guy who had his gun pointed at me and stared at him. The guy looked back at her and readied his gun to shoot at a seconds chance. I swallowed hard and took a deep breath. I silently prayed and before I opened my eyes, I heard a loud bang. I quickly opened my eyes and saw the guy pointing the gun at me fall in pain as a bullet grazed his leg. I ran over to Colette who was shaking all over. The police came rushing in and hand-cuffed Cody and his crew. I tore the paper in my hand and hugged Colette.

"Thank you! You saved me! I don't know if I would be here without you!" I started to cry and my knees buckled as I hugged her.

Once in the car again we decide to check up on Mikey and Alicia again since its eight in the morning and they should be able to go home. Apparently, Colette called the police at six am and rode over with them. She is now with us with her head on my shoulder. Ray pulls into the hospital parking lot and we go inside.

Once inside, we are happy to see Mikey and Alicia fully dressed and ready to go. They both still look very tired but all together much better. Mikey comes over to me and hugs me tightly.

"Thank God you're okay! Thank God!"