A Private Hospital - London

[itsananomaly]

Another couple of days had passed since Cutter and Connor had been brought in, they were mostly confined to their beds but since they were both in that much pain they were mostly fine with that arrangement. Even though Connor was starting to get a lot more agitated with his neck brace. It did help that they were able to stay together in the one bed, even being hooked up to all the different wires that they were and they were also comforted by having Captain Becker nearby, they were really starting to grow attached to him, even in the short amount of time that he’d been assigned to them. [part thirteen. CW for medical trauma and injury. Pre played as always with the amazing anomaly_research_nerd . NFB for distance but OOC Welcome!]

Becker(thearcfamily)	It was hard to believe it had been five days since they had rushed through the doors of the hospital, not knowing if Cutter and Connor would survive the day. It was hard to believe that much time had passed. His body believed it though, and it was getting quite good at reminding him just how much time it had been since he had had a proper night's sleep. And in a rare moment of semi-relaxation, Becker was sitting on the couch in the room, his gear sitting beside him his eyes still scanning the room and on alert from his spot by the beds. He turned his head towards the door when he heard voices outside and he started to rise to his feet as the door opened.
Lester(thearcfamily)	A few moments later Lester appeared with Jenny in tow, he looked over to the beds and then back at Becker, "anything new to report Captain?" he asked softly.
Becker(thearcfamily)	"A couple nightmares overnight but nothing more than usual," Becker said with a glance back to the bed. "Connor's having a really hard time with the brace at this point I think" he added softly.
Jenny(thearcfamily)	"Maybe we should start looking into having the counsellor come in and see them," Jenny said softly as she looked over the bed, "I know they're not going to like that, especially Nick but it might help for the nightmares, to start talking about them,"
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester nodded, "I'll talk to the staff - see about making arrangements for their first sessions, today if possible," he remarked as he looked from Cutter and Connor back to Becker, "I do have some good news though, at least in regards to Connor's neck brace,"
Becker(thearcfamily)	"Any good news will be welcomed I'm sure," Becker said with a small smile, finding himself relieved to hear that there was something good coming down the line for them at last. "Cutter's been stirring a little, want to wake him or let him go for a little longer?"
Jenny(thearcfamily)	"I think we can have him sleep a little longer," Jenny said softly, "it wouldn't be a bad idea for him to get as much sleep as possible," she added as she looked over at where Cutter was curled up on the bed with Connor.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester nodded, "how about Connor?" he asked Becker, "is Connor still sleeping, I think he'll be rather thrilled to hear the news that I've got to tell him,"
Becker(thearcfamily)	"Hnnnn... I'm awake..." came the muffled voice from the bed that still sounded more asleep than awake. "You guys are loud..." Connor said groggily. "How's a guy supposed to sleep huh?" Becker looked at Jenny and Lester and smiled as he stood and made his way to the bed. "Hey sorry there Connor," he said softly. "Think you and Cutter might like this though. Lester's got some good news for ya."
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter had been trying to sleep as long as possible but he felt Connor stir beside him and then there were voices in the room, so he slowly opened his eyes blearily, “what’s … what’s going on?” he asked, trying to sit up as much as he possibly could.
Lester(thearcfamily)	"I've been talking to your specialists and they've very pleased with your latest results and they've asked me to tell you the good news," Lester began and then Cutter interrupted. "We can go home?" he said a little hopefully and Lester sighed. "No ... it's not that type of good news," he said rather softly, "but Connor ... Connor can have his neck brace removed now," he looked over at Connor with a soft smile.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor lay there for a minute, his brain churning and trying to process that. He could swear he felt his brain start to overheat at the waves of emotions he felt at that realization. "You... You mean... I- I really can take it off?" Getting a nod and smile from Becker was all he needed and Connor was suddenly quite awake and trying to sit up in the bed.
Lester(thearcfamily)	"You still have to be careful though Connor," Lester said softly as he was instantly round Connor's side to try and help him, "they will still have to monitor you but they're satisfied that there's no permanent nerve and spinal damage," he added, "we can take it off right now, we don't need to wait for the doctors to come in," he said gently.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"R-right... I... I will" Connor said softly. The last thing he wanted was for Lester to change his mind about letting him do this. "I... I'll be careful. Promise," he said looking at Lester, trying to let him know he meant it. He'd do anything the man told him to do almost. He just wanted the damn brace off!
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester carefully began to remove the brace, trying not to cause further pain as he did. At least he had kept up to date with his first aid knowledge and he was able to do this himself rather than wait for a doctor to come round and do it. A few more moments later and then the neck brace was off, "there you are Connor," he said and there was a genuine smile there from Lester, "and the specialists are confident that you won't have to go back in the brace either after this," he assured him.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor sat stone still as Lester worked and even once the brace was off, he almost wondered if he was dreaming all this. Slowly he lifted his hand and ran his fingers against his neck. Even the pain that was there was so much better than being stuck in the brace. He slowly tried to move his head a little, wincing slightly at the stiff, aching pain. But there was only one thing he was focused on and that was the man there beside him. Sowly Connor turned, actually turned his head, and looked at Cutter He just sat there for a moment, hardly able to believe what was happening as tears began to well up in his eyes. "Nick..." he whispered softly and then the next thing he knew he was throwing his arms around his boyfriend, pulling him close, holding him, properly... for the first time in what felt like an eternity. "Oh Nick..." he said as the tears started to fall uncontrolled and he clung to him like he was never going to let him go.
Becker(thearcfamily)	Becker had been standing a bit off to the side, watching but still out of the way. This was their special moment, a big victory for this team, but especially Connor. He watched his reaction with a soft smile, that turned into a worried frown as he finally got a look at the extent of the damage done. They knew he had had some pretty bad burns and injuries but that first day, it was hard to tell what was what they were in such bad shape. But now, the extent of the burns, the worst on the back and side of his neck, there was nothing hiding the burns that would inevitably scar to some degree. Becker stood still and silent, the anger he felt towards Helen, someone he had never even met but loathed more with every day he spent guarding these two, that anger only grew as he watched Connor break down in Cutter's arms.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter didn't care about the pain in his ribs or hands as he threw his arms around Connor in as tight a hug as he could manage and for a while it looked like he would never be able to get this close to Connor again. That Helen could have done even worse than what she already had. He started sobbing - he didn't care that Lester, Jenny and Becker could see him cry and then his eyes took in that scarring and he sobbed even harder - the guilt and anger at what Helen had done threatening to overwhelm him. "I'm so sorry," he finally gasped out, "I'm so so sorry,"
Jenny(thearcfamily)	Jenny watched the scene unfold, tears building in her eyes as she watched Connor and Nick break down, she knew that their official reunion was going to be an emotional one but nothing could have prepared her for this. And nothing could have prepared her for all those burns around Connor's neck and she felt a surge of anger at Helen, wishing she had done more to be able to stop her when they had been held prisoner at the Menagerie.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester closed his eyes as he watched Nick and Connor, fighting a lump in his throat as he tried to keep some semblance of emotional detachment but he was finding it hard to do that, especially once he had taken a good look at Connor's burns on his neck and the agony that he would be in. He very discreetly went to wipe the tears that had started to build up in his eyes, he would deny that they were tears ... it was just very dusty in the room, he would have talk to someone about getting it cleaned.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Eventually, Connor pulled back when he heard the sobbing apologies from Cutter. He looked at him, tears still running freely. He gently took Cutter's face in his good hand a gently wiped away some of the tears with his thumb. "Nick... you have nothing to be sorry about..." he said softly. "I love you, Nick... so much." And not caring who was in the room and watching, Connor leaned over and kissed Nick, keeping his hand on the side of his face, as he continued the kiss for as long as his aching body would let him.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter sniffed and trembled when Connor wiped some of the tears with his thumb, "I love you too Connor," he whispered, a few sobs escaping, "I will always love you," and then he leaned just as passionately into the kiss, he did feel his hands start to hurt from moving them so much but he didn't care, he was with Connor now and that was all that mattered.
Becker(thearcfamily)	Becker watched the scene for a moment, noting Jenny's and Lester's reactions silently. There might have been a certain twinge in his stomach that was vaguely family.... but when had the last time been that he had felt it? Becker wasn't even sure he knew anymore. Clearing his throat softly, he put a hand on Lester's shoulder briefly and gave a small nod before he spoke. "I'll be outside at my post, Sir," he said simply, giving Lester the change to give him any other instructions before he left to give the team a little more privacy.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester startled for a moment at the touch of Becker's hand on his shoulder but he nodded, turning to look at Becker and blinking back those last few stubborn tears, "yes, very good thank you - that ... that's good, I ...." he wasn't entirely sure what he was saying at that point but hopefully Becker would understand. "I'll expect your usual check in, in a few hours?"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor had finally had to break the kiss, the pain in his chest and neck too much as he leaned against Cutter, holding him gently, still not willing to let go of him just yet. Over Cutter's shoulder, Connor watched Becker leave, the door closing behind him and he just sat there, appreciating the feeling of Cutter's body against his. "Are... are you ok... Nick?" he asked softly, his body screaming at him to move, to lay back down, but he didn't want to be the one to let go.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter nodded, fighting back a spasm of pain in his hands, “I’m … I’m fine,” he managed, not wanting to stop - now that he had Connor in his arms he didn’t want to let go … he didn’t want to be a part again, “I …” the tears began to build in his eyes again and he let out a sob, “I … I missed this, I've missed us,” he said quietly, if only he wasn’t in so much pain than it would be even better but considering the circumstances, he wanted to be able to hold onto Connor for as long as he could. "Are ... are you okay Connor?" he asked gently.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor tried to answer, but the pain was stealing away his ability to speak just then. He nodded against Cutter's shoulder and felt himself shiver. He knew he needed to lay down, his body felt like it was on fire and every breath was sending pain shooting through his body. But he couldn't let go. He didn't want to let go.
Jenny(thearcfamily)	Jenny was watching Nick and Connor and then noticed that neither seemed to be willing to let the other go and that she should have really come to expect this, how hard it would be for them to let go after being apart for so long and not being able to be properly close with each other. "Okay Nick, Connor ... I think it might be time to lie back down in the bed okay? You're both going to still be with each other ... you're just both in a lot of pain, you need to take things slow okay?" she said softly as she approached them, "Connor ... do you think you can let go of Nick for me?"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor was partly aware that Jenny was talking. Her voice sounded farther away than it should have and his ears were ringing a bit too, just then. But there was one phrase that cut through it all with a clarity that hit him like ice water. "Let go of Nick." The panic Connor felt at that made him tremble as he tried to cling to Cutter even more tightly. He shook his head, the pain that was sent through him making him dizzy. "No... not letting go! No... Helen... not letting him go... no!" Connor said as he buried his face into Cutter's shoulder, trembling with fear and pain.
Jenny(thearcfamily)	Jenny's heart broke, and she winced when Connor called her Helen, "Oh Connor ... I promise, you will be right next to Nick," she said gently, "please, we don't want you to hurt yourself or Nick," She noticed how tight Connor was clinging to Nick and she let out a soft sob, "Please Connor," she turned to look back at Lester, who was watching with concern and had stepped forward to help if Jenny needed it.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter meanwhile was clinging as close to Connor as he could ... he was ignoring how much pain he was in right then, how much his ribs were throbbing when Connor leaned against him but he didn't want Connor to go either, he wouldn't let Connor be taken and hearing Connor be so frightened, only made him cling more tightly. "No ... don't ... don't take Connor," he pleaded softly.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester could see how rapidly the situation was getting out of control with Connor not willing to let go of Cutter and Cutter not willing for Connor to move, "please ...Connor ... I need you to let go of Nick ... can you do that for me, it's me James ...James Lester," he didn't know why he felt necessary to add his surname right then but he knew he and Connor were not generally on a first name basis, "I promise you Helen is not here, you're safe from her,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor blinked slightly at hearing Lester use his first name. He lifted his head slowly and looked from Lester to Jenny and then back to Lester. No Helen. She wasn't there. "N-Nick stays... right?" he said, a sob catching in his throat as he slowly started to loosen his grip on Cutter, the pain finally breaking through and overcoming the panic.
Lester(thearcfamily)	"Nick will be staying," Lester nodded softly, "he's not going anywhere, you'll still be in the same bed, I promise Connor ... I just need you to let go of Nick ... just for a little while, can you do that for me Connor?"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor bit his lip and nodded though it still took a minute before he lowered his arms from around Cutter. Slowly he lowered his hands till they were in his lap and he sat there a pained sob escaping him as he trembled softly, staring down at his hands.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester gently placed a hand on Connor's shoulder, "good, I know this is hard Connor but what you're doing this is good progress, you're going to get through this," he glanced over at Jenny and Cutter, "we're going to get you through this okay?"
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter trembled, "Connor ..." he said softly, tears brimming his eyes as Connor let go, he wished his hands weren't bandaged so he could reach over to take Connor's hand, "I'm still here, I'm not going anywhere," he let out a sob.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor closed his eyes and took in a ragged breath. He felt dizzy, even though he was sitting still there on the bed. "I.... I... " he said softly. "I need to lie down... "
Cutter(itsananomaly)	"Connor?" Cutter didn't like the sound of that at all, he had to remember to breathe, he tried to sit up to look over at Connor "Connor ... wha ... what's wrong?" he said softly, "Connor?"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	It took a minute before Connor was able to say anything. "It hurts... feel... dizzy." He might have overdone it just a bit.
Jenny(thearcfamily)	"Oh Connor," Jenny said gently and she went to the side of the bed where there was a jug of water and filled a glass of water, "I think you need to rest a little while, here do you think you can drink some of this water for me?" she asked as she went to his side and held the cup up so he could see what it was.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor opened his eyes enough to see what Jenny had and slowly reached out for the glass. Hands trembling slightly, he lifted the glass and took a few small sips. "S-sorry..." he muttered as he stopped and handed the glass back to Jenny.
Jenny(thearcfamily)	"Shhh..." Jenny said softly, brushing Connor's hair back gently, "you don't have anything to apologise for Connor, this is all going to take time but like James said we'll all get through this, I promise,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor nodded slowly, giving a weak smile to Jenny. He then turned and looked at Cutter, seeing the concerned look on his face. "Nick..." he said softly, not knowing what to say as he slowly tried to lay back and get into as comfortable a position as possible.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	"Are you ... are you okay now?" Cutter asked, the worry still evident as he looked over at Connor, he trembled, "are ... you ... its ... you scared me so much," he said in a a voice barely above a whisper.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"I'm sorry Nick..." Connor whispered. "I'm fine. I'm fine, Nick... I promise..." Connor reached his good hand out and reached out towards Cutter. "I... are you... you..." his voice tailed off, hating how worried and upset Cutter looked and knowing it was because of him.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter nodded, "I'm ... I'll be fine, I ... I ..." he reached out a bandaged hand towards Connor's good one, "I ...I ..." his voice trailed off, "I'm sorry," he said softly, "that I ...if I ... " he closed his eyes for a moment, "if I upset you ...I ... I didn't mean for you to get hurt even more,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Sh-h-h it's... it wasn't you Nick..." Connor said softly "You could never hurt me.... not intentionally. Connor shifted as close to Cutter as he could, keeping his hand on Cutter's. "I love you Nick... I wouldn't... wouldn't be able to do this... without you..."
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter trembled as he tried to move in a little closer but he wanted to be careful about not freaking Connor out again, "I love you too Connor, I ... I need you here, I ... I can't do this without you," he said softly.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester watched Nick and Connor as they both seemed to settle and calm down, "right I think that's our cue to leave Jenny," he said softly as he looked over at her and then back to Nick and Connor, "I won't be back until the evening but Jenny will be here throughout the day and of course Captain Becker will be here, he will pass on any reports to me if there's something you need," he told him.
Jenny(thearcfamily)	Jenny gave them both a soft smile and then a gentle kiss on the forehead each before she stepped back, "I won't be far if you do need me," she promised then and looked back at Lester.
Lester(thearcfamily)	"I'm not going to kiss them," Lester insisted with a shake of his head but there was a small smile as he said it, "right Jenny, shall we take out leave?" he smoothed a non existent crease out of his suit and a nod to each, "I'll see you this evening," and then he and Jenny left the room leaving Connor and Nick alone.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter watched Jenny and Lester leave as he settled back into bed, trying to stay as close to Connor as he could and he curled up next him, "I love you Connor," he whispered again.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor watched Jenny and Lester leave. Once they were alone again he shifted as close as he could to Nick. Reaching out his good hand, Connor found the closest patch of skin he could reach, his fingers gently rubbing Cutter's arm. "I love you Nick," he whispered softly as he closed his eyes and tried to relax, eventually drifting off to sleep.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	It had been several hours since the brace had come off and while he was feeling a lot calmer than before, the adrenaline finally gone from his body, Connor still felt a bit off. The panic was gone, but in its wake was a nervous energy he didn't know what to do with. So after some time trying to get comfortable and failing, Connor sat up in the bed and swung his legs over the side. He looked down at the floor and sighed. He had been on his feet all of three times, maybe, since he had ended up in that bed. And he was beginning to undertsand the stir-crazy feeling Cutter had been dealing with the last few days.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter looked over at Connor, “at least it’s not just me getting restless,” he said softly as he looked over at Connor, “I wish we were able to get up and move more,”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"I just wish things would stop hurting so much" Connor said with a sigh as he shifted slightly, wincing at the pain in his neck. "I'm tired of being stuck in bed... I mean not that I don't like being next to you" he said with a small smile. "But... I can't stay laying anymore." And Connor might have shifted just then just enough for his feet to hit the ground.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter returned the tiny smile, "even though I feel like I should warn you that Captain Becker will stop you escaping, if you try to leave," he added, "trust me, escaping doesn't work,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"At this point...I think I'd be fine with just seeing the room from a different perspective than the bed" Connor said with a weak laugh, cutting it off as his ribs reminded him how bruised they still were. "I mean they got to let us out sometime.. right... might as well practice a little?" No Connor that was not how any of this works!
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter gave a small laugh at that, "I mean I don't know how physiotherapy really works but I think its a bit more involved than that," he said gently, "but I know the feeling, I'd love to see something different ... maybe even outside? Do you think they'd wheel us outside for a while if we asked?"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Couldn't hurt to ask. Becker couldn't accuse us of trying to escape if we asked for permission first," Connor said with a small grin. Then he shifted his attention back to the floor, and then taking a deep breath, tried to stand up. He managed to make it to his feet without screaming at the pain that shot through his legs and back as his weight shifted to something that had become totally unfamiliar by that point. Connor bit his lip and steadied himself and then took a tentative step, wincing at the pain, surprised at just unfamiliar something a simple as walking had become in 2 week's time. "I... I'm good... I got this..." he said, as much to reassure himself as Cutter. "I can do...." The words were cut off as the door opened and Abby walked in and stared. "Oh... ummm... hey Abby..."
Cutter(itsananomaly)	“That’s true,” Cutter smiled as he tried to start sitting up as well, “it’s not escaping if we're asking permission to leave, are you sure you're okay do you need me to help you?” because that was definitely a great idea Cutter, both of you out of bed - that wasn't asking for trouble at all. Then he looked over as Abby entered the room. “Connor,” Abby looked at him, staring at him as she took in that, “why are you out of bed?”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Oh I was... ummm... I-I.... " Connor looked at Abby, that look in her eyes... and he knew he had to choose those next words carefully. Angry Abby could be scary Abby oftentimes. "I was just about to get back in bed" he said slowly as he deliberately made a show of moving back toward the bed. "That's what I thought" Abby said simply, but there was still a concerned look on her face.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter chose that moment to carefully slide back down in bed to make it look like that he had not been planning to get out of bed or do anything stupid like that. “I saw that Cutter,” Abby glared over at him, “I suppose he got the idea from you?” Cutter tried to look innocent but Abby really did terrify him and he looked sheepish, “I didn’t exactly give him the idea - I’ve only tried to escape once,” he protested.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"It's just really hard Abby" Connor said softly, head down a little. "Being stuck in bed, it sucks. I know we have to get better... but its hard. Im tired of sitting here watching my hair grow farther and farther into my eyes!" he said with a smaller exasperated laugh as he pushed the hair, that had really gotten longer than it had been in quite some time, out of his eyes.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter self consciously began to run his fingers through his hair, he knew that his own hair was also looking a mess right then. "I know this is hard," Abby said softly, "but this is all to help you feel better, to help you with your recovery, you'll be home before you know it," and then she paused before she held up a small kit and opened it, revealing a hair care kit that included scissors, "well I can actually help you with your hair problem at least, I figured you both could use a good trim, so I'm going to give you both a haircut," she said proudly.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	A small smile actually spread across Connor's face just then. Abby at times did her own hair so she definitely was good with a pair of scissors. "Aww Abbs... you'd do that?" Connor asked, feeling surprisingly touched by that. "Course. I know it's a small thing but if it can help you both... then of course I want to help" Abby said with a smile as she reached out and gently ruffled Connor's hair slightly, making it stick up some. "Besides, cant have the two of you starting to look like cavemen on me."
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter did manage a small laugh at that but winced at the pain that hit his ribs, “we would prefer to not end up looking like cavemen,” he agreed, “thank you Abby, this is a big help,” he said gently. “You’re welcome, now who wants to go first?” she asked as she got everything set up. “Connor do you want to go first?” he looked over at him.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Sure why not," Connor said with a small grin. "Alright," Abby said when she was ready and had the chair all set up. "Now, both of you... let me do most of this alright?" she said as she moved to stang in front of Connor to help him get up and make it the few steps to where the chair was. Connor nodded and slowly stood, letting Abby support him and get him situated. "See? Much easier" she said with a satisfied nod once Connor was seated and she soon got to work.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter watched Abby work on Connor’s hair, marvelling at how quickly she worked through his hair. He normally did his own hair cutting, preferring to keep it styled short with minimal fuss but he realised with a pang that he was probably never going to be able to properly cut his hair again and would need to make other arrangements if he wanted to keep his hair short. He ran his hand through his hair again, this time feeling the weight of those casts on his head as this was another thing that he would no longer be able to do.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	It really was impressive how fast Abby could work. In what felt like no time at all, she was giving Connor a pat on the shoulder. "So, how's it feel now?" she asked with a grin when she was finished. "Feels so much better, thanks Abby," Connor said after running a hand through the now much shorter hair and then pulling Abby in for a quick hug. "Alright Cutter. You ready for your turn?" she asked with a gentle smile.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter nodded, taking a deep breath as he began to get back up in a sitting position, wincing slightly at the effort that took. “I’m ready,” he said and Abby extended her hand for him to take and he took it, it took a while for them to make it over to the stool but they got set up and it wasn’t long before Abby was carefully cutting his hair. “There we are,” she smiled warmly, “how does that feel?” “Really good, thank you Abby,” Cutter smiled gratefully, it was nice to be able to have shorter hair again. Abby smiled and ran her hand carefully through his hair, “you’re welcome,”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Looks good too" Connor offered with a smile as he watched Abby help Cutter up and shifted on the bed so he had an easier time sitting down. He gave the hair an admiring look and leaned over and placed a soft kiss on Cutter's forehead as he gently stroked the now familiarly short hair gently. "Thank you, Abby," he said again, giving her a smile. "This.... it means... a lot. Thank you." "Anytime" Abby said with a smile as stood there and there then leaned over and placed a soft kiss on the top of each of their heads.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter smiled as he was helped back into the bed and got comfortable, smiling as Connor ran his fingers through his hair and then when Abby gently kissed his forehead. “Thank you Abby,” he said again, “this …this really helped us, we both appreciate this,”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor gave a soft smile as he sat beside Cutter, his arm wrapped lightly around him as he looked back at Abby and nodded in agreement. "Glad I could help" Abby said simply as she started to pack things up. "Looking, and feeling, more like yourselves is a big thing. I'm glad I could do this for you both." Once she was packed up she gave them both another smile. "I have to go for a bit. Connor and I are running some upgrades to the detector back at the ARC. But we'll stop by for a visit later when we are done, alright?" Connor nodded and gave a small wave as he watched Abby leave, leaning his head over against Cutter's shoulder and closing his eyes, a yawn escaping despite his best effort to hold it back. Damn, that little bit of walking had really worn him out...
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter said goodbye to Abby as she left and snuggled close to Connor, it really was remarkable how much of a difference a haircut could make and he was starting to feel tired again. He yawned when Connor did and got as comfortable as he could, “this feels really nice,” he said, he was now half asleep and it wouldn’t take much for him to drift off again.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Very very nice..." Connor agreed with a sleepy smile. It was no time at all till Connor was dozing off, snuggled up as close as he could get to Cutter. And for once sleep at least started off deep and restful, feeling Cutter there besides him, his breathing lulling him to sleep. "I love you Nick" he whispered softly as he finally drifted off.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter had drifted in and out sleep since this morning and now that it was night, he found he couldn’t sleep at all and was wide awake. He tried to fall back asleep, he remained curled up next to Connor and tried to drift off but he just couldn’t. Finally he had to get up, he needed to get out of bed and do something, he didn’t want to lie there anymore. All he could think about was seeing Connor’s neck … all those burns … the constant reminder of what Helen had done to him. Seeing Connor freak out the way he did when Jenny had tried to let him go this morning when they had properly hugged for the first time … this was his fault, Connor was in this state because of him and he couldn’t sleep … those images kept replaying in his mind and he needed to do something, anything. He carefully got into a sitting position, disconnected the few wires that were still attached to him and slowly stood up. He bit back a howl of pain as his feet touched the floor, he was still finding it difficult to walk on his feet even after nearly a week. He took a deep breath and hobbled to the middle of the room, he wasn’t sure what he was going to do … he was in a lot of pain standing up but at least he could feel something this way … he started trying to pace the room and then this time he couldn’t help, he let out a cry of pain and a sob.
Becker(thearcfamily)	Becker had been standing guard outside the door. He had convinced Jenny to finally go home and get some proper sleep. He had delivered the most recent report to Lester and wasn't expecting him for another couple hours. Things had been fairly quiet that afternoon and evening so far. So, Becker was a little surprised to see Cutter up and out of bed at that hour. "Cutter, you alright?" he asked, the concern evident on his face as he walked over quickly.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter startled as Becker approached and he flinched a bit, "I ... I'm ... I'm fine," he trembled as the pain kept throbbing, "I ... I wasn't trying to escape this time," he said softly. It was really hurting to stand now, his started shaking as he tried to stay upright.
Becker(thearcfamily)	"Well that's good. Looks like you can be taught," Becker said with a small grin. He then took in Cutter's pained expression and glanced back over to the bed. "Too restless to sleep" he said more than asked.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter managed a sheepish smile at that, "I can learn sometimes," he said with a laugh and then winced at the pain in his ribs. He followed Becker's gaze over to the bed, "I ... I can't sleep," he admitted, "I keep seeing ..." he hesitated, he wasn't used to discussing his own personal feelings except with Connor, "I can't stop thinking about what she did to him ... and I ...she only hurt him to get to me," he trembled. "I'm the reason he's in here with me ..."
Becker(thearcfamily)	Becker watched him for a moment and sighed softly. He had seen this countless times before in the field- survivor's guilt or some variation of it. He gave Cutter a small smile and nodded towards the couch. "How about a compromise? Not the bed, but get you off your feet for a bit?" He asked, starting to move to help Cutter if he would let him. He wasn't going to address the rest of all that until he knew Cutter wasn't going to pass out on him again.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter hesitated but eventually he nodded, “okay,” he said softly and reluctantly let Becker help him over towards the couch - he was really in a lot of pain standing on his feet and the couch was a good compromise he had to admit it. As he hobbled over to the couch, he let out a cry of pain at the pressure on his feet and had to bend over, tears springing to his eyes as he couldn't move any more.
Becker(thearcfamily)	Becker was right there and before Cutter had a chance to try and protest he had an arm around him as gently as he could and helped him the last few steps to the couch. "Easy does it. Almost there" he said as they made their way across the room."No passing out on me this time."
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter let out a groan at the moment but he was in that much agony he was grateful for Becker's help as they got closer to the couch, "I don't think Co-Connor would like it if I passed out again," he admitted, trembling against Becker as they walked across the room. "I guess I didn't think this part through," he added sheepishly, "I only wanted to get out of the bed," Most of Cutter's problems would be solved if he actually took the time to stop and think things through.
Becker(thearcfamily)	"Pretty sure the entire team might have something to say about that," Becker said with a smile as he shifted to take more of Cutter's weight and help him that last little bit. "And as far as thinking clearly... You have been on quite a nice mix of pain meds. I'm surprised you and Connor have both been as lucid as you have. I was pretty messed up last time I had to be on a cocktail of pain meds like that."
Cutter(itsananomaly)	“Oh that sounds like quite a story,” Cutter tilted his head slightly up from where he was leaning against Becker, there was a few more steps and then he finally started to sink into the couch.
Becker(thearcfamily)	Becker was more carrying Cutter than anything by that point and gently helped him sit down on the couch, moving the pillows around as he did. "Alright, better than standing in the middle of the room right?" he said as he grabbed one of the bottles of water from the mini-fridge on the other side of the couch and handed it to Cutter. Once he was convinced Cutter was as comfortable as he could be, he sat down himself and then gave him a small grin. "Guess I owe you a story now huh? Reward for making it here without passing out."
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter nodded sheepishly as he settled into the couch, “it is much better than standing up thank you,” he accepted the bottle of water gratefully and took a mouthful, “a story would be nice,” he said with a small grin as he got comfortable, “especially since I didn’t pass out or try to escape this time,” he added.
Becker(thearcfamily)	Becker smiled as he sat down and leaned back to get a little comfortable himself. "So, story. I... I don't know how much Lester has told you about my background and all. But I spent a good number of years in special ops, so saw a good bit of action in that time." Becker paused here and gave a small smirk as he looked over at Cutter. "Nothing like your anomalies and all from what I have been told, though. But still enough to get pretty banged up. Worst was the leg" he said leaning over and patting his right leg.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	“Lester hasn’t said much at all about the work you did, I figured you just had to be really good to be hired by Lester,” Cutter admitted, tilting his head slightly as he looked at Becker’s leg, “what happened?” he asked softly, as he then down at the bandage on his own leg where Helen had stabbed him.
Becker(thearcfamily)	"Shrapnel from an AV mine while out on a mission. Was pretty bad," Becker said slowly. "They thought I'd lose the use of the leg completely by the time all the surgeries were done. As it was it took almost a month before I could walk again." Becker paused and gave a small dry laugh as he subconsciously rubbed the calf muscle like he was working out a cramp. "Tell ya those meds were really nice."
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter winced at that, “how do you even manage to recover from something like that?” he asked softly, “I … I know that Connor and I … we’re going to be in for a long recovery, that’s what everyone keeps telling us but I don’t … I don’t want to have to keep relying on the medication either …. If I can’t rely on my own mind…I mean you've seen first hand that I don't make good decisions when I can't think logically ...” he hesitated, biting his lip and he fell silent, “she wanted to take everything from me … to break me … I’m afraid that she succeeded,” wow the couch was suddenly really fascinating all of a sudden.
Becker(thearcfamily)	Becker sat silently for a minute. He knew this thought process well.... he had been there a few years ago himself. "It's definitely a process," Becker said slowly. "Small steps, sometimes it will be two steps forward and one back. But that's... that's to be expected." Becker glanced at Cutter, giving him a small encouraging smile. "You have a good team here behind you. And if what I have seen so far is any indication... I think it's safe to say Helen hasn't totally shattered you. Broken a little, maybe... but broken things can be fixed and mended... it's just the process that can be the challenge at times," he said softly.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter closed his eyes as he took that in, “they’re a good team,” he agreed softly and took a moment to compose his thoughts before he opened his eyes again, taking a moment to look over at Connor and then back to Becker, “it’s …I’m not good at …well … talking,” he admitted, “and waiting,” he added after a moment, “it’s … it’s not that she did all that to me, she did it to Connor as well and … I … I knew when we got together that I was putting a target on his back, that she would go after him to get to me … Helen,” he winced a bit at saying her name, “she doesn’t handle rejection well and I … “ his voice trailed off, “she nearly killed him, I … I thought…” he said quietly, “she … she told me that …that Stephen killed him,” he stopped, “I never … I never would have helped her …” his thoughts were too jumbled and confused now and some part of him realised how bad that made him look …that he had willingly helped Helen, he was pretty sure that that meant that he had committed treason himself but he was in too much pain to focus on that just now. He trembled and took another drink of water from the bottle.
Becker(thearcfamily)	"I know it sounds like a passing comment to say this, but..." Becker said slowly after watching Cutter for a moment after that. " You can only hold the blame for things that are actually your fault. Carrying the blame and responsibility of others... of things beyond your control... it will eat you up inside." Becker shifted and leaned over on his knees, looking down at his hands. "Lord knows I spent enough time trying to carry it myself. The guilt over the men I couldn't save... the guilt that I had survived... the shame of not being able to fulfill my duty as a solider... and... the fear of not being able to be a man anymore because of the injury..." Becker lifted his head and looked at Cutter. "It's not easy... but if you find your reason.. then nothing can stop you."
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter trembled, “I …how did you manage to get through? To find your reason?” he asked softly, “it’s only been 5 days and …” he took a deep breath, “I don’t know how to push through, to be there for Connor as well when …I ….” His voice trailed off and hesitated, wrestling with the secret that he had been keeping to himself the entire time. He knew that no one would probably bring it up or it would be a while but it was definitely something that had been weighing on him since he had made that decision to take Connor and find Rex. “It …it was my fault though … why we got captured to begin with …I …Lester told us to stay put while he and his men went to find Leek, I …I took Connor with me to find Rex, I thought we could find him before the others noticed we were gone … “ he closed his eyes and a sob escaped before he could stop it, “this was all my fault,”
Becker(thearcfamily)	"My one thing, at first, was getting out of the hospital and back on the front line. And when that was no longer an option, I had to find something else." Becker looked at Cutter and gave a small smile. "And right now, my one thing is this assignment, this team, you and Connor." And then Becker had to consider the rest of that for a moment before he continued, trying to keep his tone gentle. "And did you have Connor at gunpoint when you left? Im pretty sure he followed of his volition right?" Becker said slowly, watching Cutter closely. "Connor is responsible for his own actions. Shared blame, maybe. Shared responsibility, sure. But you can't take it all on yourself, Cutter. You left to go get Rex, Connor followed, and things went sideways." Becker reached out and put a hand on Cutter's shoulder lightly, taking care to try and avoid the burns he knew were there. "You cant blame yourself fully any more than a commanding officer can blame himself for taking a detour and running into a land mine trap. Some things... are on us.... some are on others.... and some are things that were going to happen anyways. I'm not going to sit here and lie and pretend it was easy. I won’t tell you that you and Connor are going to breeze through it. But what I can tell you is, carrying more than what is yours to carry makes the entire process harder." Yes, there was a good bit of personal experience taking behind that last bit.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	“He …no, I didn’t force him to come with me,” Cutter said quietly, “I …it’s …” his voice trailed off as he tried to process his thoughts, he wasn’t used to this at all but now that he had started it was like he couldn’t stop. “I …I don’t know how I’ll be able to go back in the field after this,” he admitted quietly, “I …I …I - I …” he took a deep breath, “I don’t …how could anyone trust me to lead after this?”
Becker(thearcfamily)	"It will take time. Just like all of this will," Becker said as gently as he could, remembering all too well what it felt like to be wrestling wth those thoughts and whispered fears. "Even the best leaders make mistakes. We're human. But I bet you will find that this team of yours, that they will be behind you... whatever that future looks like." Becker watched Cutter for a moment before continuing. "If you had told me back when I was laying in a hospital bed, feeling like I was dying and worried I might lose my leg and never walk again... if you had told me when I was laying there in the worst pain I have ever known... if you had said I would be here now, working with this team, dealing with anomalies and everything.... I would have said you were the on high on pain meds." Becker gave Cutter a small understanding nod. "I know it's hard and looks and feels impossible. But there's always something worth fighting for. And I know you will find yours."
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter nodded, staring down at the water bottle in his hands, as he tried to process his thoughts. “I felt the same when I first moved to Fandom,” he said softly, “if you’d told me that I would be dating another version of Connor and teaching high school students…” he shook his head, “I thought Fandom was going to be quiet and boring, after dealing with anomalies…” “I’m …I’m glad Lester hired you,” he said after a few moments of silence past between them, “and I’m …um sorry for kicking you in the stomach when you rescued us,” he added a bit sheepishly.
Becker(thearcfamily)	"Ah you do remember," Becker said with a smirk and a small laugh. "I wasn't going to bring it up if you didn't remember. And I guess I'll forgive you" he said with a laugh. "And I'm glad Lester brought me onboard. It has definitely been an interesting first week, I will give you guys that much." "So, on to less depressing topics," Becker said after a moment or two, knowing how easy it could be to get caught up in that spinning thought process and find it hard to pull out when needed. "Jenny said you used to teach at a university before you joined the ARC team? Pretty sure I've never seen "Anomalies 101" listed on a class register before... so I am assuming there is quite a story there about how you got involved in all this?"
Cutter(itsananomaly)	“Yeah some of that is a little fuzzy to be honest but I um do remember kicking you to try and get away,” Cutter looked embarrassed and then he laughed at the rest of what Becker was saying, “you don’t know the half it …one of my students Connor …um my Connor,” he clarified, “came up to me and …Stephen,” he went a little quiet there but he gained his composure, “telling us about this wild theory that monsters had been spotted in the Forest of Dean and ….” he hesitated again, “that was where um …Helen had disappeared eight years earlier,” “ I didn’t …I mean I suppose that’s why they say hindsight’s a wonderful thing if I knew then what trying to find Helen would do …” he shook his head, “long story short we ended up in the Forest of Dean, met Abby who was there investigating Rex and we ended up discovering the anomalies …we got recruited by a woman called Claudia Brown, had to sign the Official Secrets Act and everything,” Cutter said with a soft smile as he recalled the day that changed everything.
Becker(thearcfamily)	Becker smiled - it was good to see Cutter smile, even just for a little, and that laugh, however small and brief, was a huge relief too. "Well whatever it was that brought you all together, you all are one of the closest knit teams I have ever seen or worked with," Becker said with a small smile of his own. "Any man would be lucky to say that this team had their backs. I'm actually a little jealous," Becker said, thinking like a man who assumed Lester only needed a dedicated body guard given the current situation.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter smiled softly, at that, “I am…really lucky, this team …they’re my family,” he tilted his head, “and from where I’m standing …” he hesitated , glancing down at his bandaged feet, “er - sitting …you’re already part of this team Captain Becker,” he told him softly, “it’s …thank you, for being here for us …the team …getting Connor and I out”
Becker(thearcfamily)	Becker looked at Cutter a minute, that strangely familiar flutter kicking up again for some reason. "Appreciate that mate," he said with a soft smile. "I'd be lying if... I said at first it wasn't just a mission. But this... this team... all of you... even the stuffed shirt Lester... you guys do grow on a person." At least a person as insane and crazy as the rest of you all.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	“We do grow on you, there is a system to the chaos, if you can believe that,” Cutter smiled warmly at that, “I never thought that I could be part of something this, a family …but I don’t know where I’d be without this team … without Connor,” Well he had a fair idea of where he’d be but he was trying to not think about that, “this is … being part of this is incredible, and we’re lucky to you have you on board Captain,”
Becker(thearcfamily)	He had to smile warmly at that, "The right team does make all the difference in the world" Becker nodded in agreement. "And I'm glad to have a small role to play in all of this." He looked at Cutter and gave a genuine smile that shifted into a slight smirk as he continued. "And just Becker is fine, at least... until we get back out in the field."
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter returned the smile, “Becker it is then,” he said warmly, “and I think it’s safe to say that your role will become a lot larger, I’m pretty confident that it won’t stay small for long,”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor had woken up as Becker was leaving that evening. He had sort of heard muffled bits of the conversation at the edge of his sleep, but it wasn't until Cutter was back in the bed and he heard the click of the door close that he finally started to walk up and move. He had no idea what time it was... but in a hospital, things like time meant nothing. "Hey you" he said with a small grin as he started to move, attempting to stretch a little and almost immediately regretting it. "You been up long?"
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter gave a small smile, “I couldn’t sleep,” he admitted softly, “I …I tried to get up to walk around the room,” he looked a little sheepish, “Becker found me,”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Oh Nick.... " Connor said with a concerned and somewhat exasperated look as he sat up. "You didn't hurt yourself.... again, did you?"
Cutter(itsananomaly)	“No…” Cutter started to protest and then hesitated, “um …I had trouble walking to the couch, Becker helped me over, but I’m fine really, I just …um…I needed to get out of bed,” he said softly.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"I can understand that..." Connor said softly, giving his stubborn impossible boyfriend a small smile. "Just... be careful. Maybe wake me up at least so I can keep an eye on you, or call Becker in or something?" Connor reached over and gently ran a hand down Cutter's face. "I... I just don't want you to... to hurt yourself."
Cutter(itsananomaly)	“I’m sorry,” Cutter said softly, “I’ll, I’ll try to be careful,” he said as he leaned in closer to Connor, “I didn’t want to disturb you …I …I just want to be able to move and I …I don’t …” his voice trailed as he stared down at the bed, “I just wish I could do things for myself again,” he admitted.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"You will Nick... it... it's just going to take time... for us both" Connor said softly, leaning in closer. "And there's one thing you already do... very very well.. all on your own." Connor closed the distance and kissed Cutter softly and then smiled softly. "You and you alone... can make all this," he said with a wave at the room "more tolerable. And you do that all on your own," Connor said as he leaned in and resumed the kiss.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter did smile at that as he leaned in to the kiss, "and you make this more tolerable for me as... I'm glad we're able to stay together," he tried not to think about how it would have been if Lester hadn't been able to get them the same room to stay in. He resumed the kiss, focusing just on Connor and kissing him and not about the hospital bed or the room or their injuries. He just wanted to focus on something normal right then and kissing Connor was very normal and something he very much enjoyed so was happy to keep that kiss going as long as possible.
Lester(thearcfamily)	And that was the moment that Lester finally made it to the hospital, after a long shift at the ARC and dealing with more civil servants than he cared to admit but he still had to clean up the fallout from what had happened and that was taking a lot of time and meetings and there were many more meetings and discussions that he would have to have, which he wasn't looking forward to. He did make a stop on the way, stopping by the place he liked to take his kids for milkshakes when he was able to take them to the city and he put a lot of thought into the flavours he picked for Connor and Nick. He knew that this would probably be a lot for them and they might not be able to finish them but he thought this would be a good start for them, to help easing them into eating again. And honestly after the last couple of weeks he knew that a milkshake would be a nice treat for them. He got to their room and Becker helped open the door for him, giving him a smile when he saw the milkshakes and then Lester stepped inside and stopped when he saw Connor and Nick were kissing on the bed. "Oh," he shifted slightly, staring at the two milkshakes in his hands and trying to look anywhere but the bed.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor had heard the door click open but it took a couple seconds for that to really register with his brain, distracted as he was. He broke the kiss and turned towards the door, his cheeks immediately going a bit red. "Ah.. ummmm.... Lester..." Connor said awkwardly.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter blinked a bit when Connor broke the kiss and was a bit confused when he looked towards the door, "oh," he echoed Lester and he shifted a bit awkwardly, "um ..." he could feel his own cheeks start to rise and his bit his lip. "Um ..." he said again as he tried to think of something else to say.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester shifted just as awkwardly, "right I'm going to pretend that I did not see that," he finally remarked, really wishing that his hands were free so he could bury his face in his hands or something where he could try and block out the image of Nick and Connor and how enthusiastic they'd been with their kissing. "I have something for the two of you,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor sat up and looked over at Lester, trying to just push right past that awkwardness. "Something other than the amazing gift of your presence?" Connor said with a grin, in a very thinly veiled attempt to shift the mood.
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester's lips twitched in a smirk, "come now I don't think anything could top that," he remarked, trying to sound casual as he did, "but I think these might be pretty close," he offered up the milkshakes, "I thought you might like to try eating something and while I know this isn't standard hospital procedure, I think after the last couple of weeks, trying a milkshake would be better than some of the hospital food," he told him as he came closer.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter looked surprised at that and his eyes widened at the thought of having something normal like a milkshake, he looked over at Connor and then back at Lester, "you brought us milkshakes?" he couldn't think of what else to say.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor's expression pretty much, mirrored Cutter's as he looked at Lester and tilted his head slightly and gave Lester a slightly questioning look. "You finally get tired enough to try and drug us?" he asked with a small laugh, but still reaching out for the milkshake Lester was holding out to him.
Lester(thearcfamily)	It was taking all of Lester's resolve to not roll his eyes at that, "I would not be that subtle," he remarked as he handed the milkshake to Connor, "and I believe the correct word you're looking for is thank you," he said a bit pointedly as he handed the other milkshake to Cutter.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter actually did smile at that, staring down at his milkshake that he carefully put on his tray table. "Thank you," he told Lester and then took a sip and his eyes widened at the flavour, which was pineapple mango ... it took him a moment to get used to the taste, it had been so long since he had had something really sweet. He looked up at Lester, "how did you know that I liked pineapple mango?"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Thanks Lester" Connor said with a sincere smile and small nod as he shifted slightly and took a small sip of his, his curiosity piqued once he heard what flavor Cutter had gotten. "You... how..." Connor stared at the cup in his hand and then to Lester. "Peanut butter and chocolate? How did you know? Have you like.... got every little detail written in those files you never let us see?"
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester sighed, "congratulations you've found out that I can read minds," he said dryly but his lips did twitch slightly as he tried to not laugh at that, "and I used it to buy you milkshakes where I knew you would like very specific flavours," He paused, "I've worked with the two of your for the past two years or a version of you as it may be Connor ... I like to think I have some pretty strong observational skills, which as you know is rather necessary in my line of work,"
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter smiled softly at that as he took another slow drink of milkshake, "this is really, really incredible," he said with a smile, "I think it's the best milkshake that I've ever had," Admittedly he'd also barely been fed in the last two weeks and before that he'd been forced to eat dog food, so the bar was fairly low in that regard but Cutter was happy to have something different to have and it had been quite a while since he'd had a pineapple mango milkshake.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"This... this is amazing" Connor said taking a slow sip, savoring that taste he has almost forgotten after the last few weeks. It might actually be enough to finally remove the memory of what that dog food had tasted like. "Thanks Lester.. this... you...." he didn't quite have the words to express exactly what he was feeling. "If I wasn't stuck in this bed I'd give you hug right now that is how amazing this thing tastes!"
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester looked slightly horrified at the idea of Connor coming over to hug him, "that ...er won't be necessary, I assure you Connor. The store does make a good milkshake, and they do have my kids tick of approval so ..." his voice trailed off a bit awkwardly as he wasn't sure what to say ... this was definitely out of his comfort zone, "but I am glad you're both enjoying them,"
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter took a moment to enjoy another slow sip and savour everything, he didn't think anything could ever taste so good, "it's ... this was ... thank you James," he said softly, calling Lester by his name for the second time in a couple of weeks, which was probably some kind of record, "this ... this is definitely something that we both needed, something different after spending the last few days here,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor nodded as he took another drink, probably a bigger one than he should have because a few seconds later he put it down on the tray table and put his hand to his head. "Ow...ow...ow...." he winced for a minute, opened one eye, and saw the concerned look on Cutter's face. "Brain freeze..." get groaned as he rubbed his head against the stabbing pain.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter was still concerned and was watching Connor , "Connor?" he said gently, "Connor are you okay? Is there anything I can do?" Was there anything you could do for brain freeze? Cutter wasn't actually sure but he still felt bad watching Connor rubbing his head.
Lester(thearcfamily)	"I really should have seen this coming," Lester sighed at that, "and that's why you need to drink these slowly, otherwise I'm going to have to have rather angry meetings with the doctors and nurses about why I brought you these shakes and I would rather we avoid that for the time being,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"No... no.... I'm ok, it's fine... it's getting better..." Connor said slowly lowering his hand and giving a sheepish shrug to Lester. "Means it's really good at least right?" And it definitely was a far cry from what he had had as far as actual food went lately. So Lester really shouldn't have expected self-control to be the first thing to spring into Connor's mind. "But really... thanks Lester.. this... this was really swell of ya and all."
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester did actually smile softly at that, "you're welcome," he said gently, shifting a bit since this was still rather awkward for him, "I'm sure as you start to eat more, we'll be able to bring in different foods for you," he paused, "no one should have to deal with hospital food,"
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter gave a smile and took another slow sip of milkshake, careful to not get brain freeze, "that would be really nice thank you," he said, "I think ... I think they did say they were planning on starting us eating solids in the next couple of days," Which he was not really looking forward to trying at all but he knew that in order to leave the hospital they had to start eating on their own and it was going to be something they'd have to work towards.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor felt his stomach flip slightly at the thought of trying to eat anything substantial or solid. Maybe it was the sweet coldness that his stomach was unfamiliar with. Or it might have been the fear and uncertainty that eating anything resembling real food brought on. Connor was going to pretend it was the first, when he knew all too well it was one hundred percent the second. "Yeah, this is a nice step towards that," Connor said, pushing those thoughts and fears down the best that he could. "Never would have had Lester sneaking in milkshakes on my list of things that would happen today," he added with a small laugh.
Lester(thearcfamily)	"I've requested that when you do start eating solids that I want to be present when you do," he said softly to try and assure them that they wouldn't have to do this alone ... he had a feeling that he knew what kind of tactics Helen had employed as she tried to break Connor and Nick and if his suspicions were correct then it was going to be a lot for them to try and eat solids for the first time. Then he paused at the last bit Connor was saying, "And I do have my moments believe it or not," Lester said with a slight smile as he nodded towards the milkshakes, "I'm full of surprises,"
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter did smile softly at that, trying not to think about eating solids and focus on taking a careful sip of his milkshake, "that you certainly are James," Cutter said with a small smile, "and thank you again for all of this, for ... " he looked over at Connor and then at the private hospital room that they were staying in, "for everything,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Aye... thanks Lester," Connor said sincerely, all joking and deflecting gone just then. "I don't want to think about what it would be like if... if you weren't pulling all these strings for us."