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Title: Unspoken
Author: Chaps1870
Pairing: Rodney/Carson Sheppard Friendship
Rating: R for language
Summary: After finding out about Rodney and Carson’s relationship, John’s friendship with Rodney is threatened.
Disclaimer: They belong to someone else, I’ll return them when I’m done….maybe. No infringement of copyright is intended.
Chapter 21
Ford leapt up and moved to the door, “Hey, how about some food and water if you’re going to keep us in here?” He couldn’t see anyone, but he was sure someone was outside their cells going through the gear that had been piled in a heap before they’d been incarcerated. More scuffling and Ford could see a shadow on the opposite wall, moving closer. Standing on his toes, the high window made it difficult to see out, but he recognized their visitor. “McKay! Where’s Major Sheppard? Can you get us out of here?”
“He’s around the corner,” Rodney said, his voice tired. Ford didn’t like that the doctor was in charge of their escape, it meant the Major was too injured to do it. It wouldn’t do to dwell on it at the moment and seeing the C-4 in the doctor’s hand, ordered everyone away from the door as he watched him work.
“I hope you know what you’re doing.”
“I hope you were a good teacher,” muttered Rodney.
Ford smiled proudly, “I trust ya, McKay. Let me know when you’re ready.”
Rodney nodded and reached for the door, locating the locking mechanism with his fingers. There was probably a panel just like the one they dismantled earlier to get free of their own cell but without someone to guide him, he had to resort to a cruder method.
Tearing off a chunk of C-4, Mckay worked it between the door lock and the jam, hoping he was close enough to do some damage. Reaching into his pocket, he extracted the detonator and wedged it into the C-4. Taking the remote from the other pocket, his hands shook as he informed Ford to get down. Backing away until he felt the corner of the building, he slipped behind it for cover. A deep breath later he pushed the button and heard the muffled explosion from the hallway. It rocked him, sending another shock wave through his already splitting head. He staggered as he pushed away from the wall and rounding the corner, ran into both Teyla and Ford.
He handed off the remaining C-4 to Ford, “You’re in charge I need to help the major.”
Teyla asked, “Where is he? Is he hurt?”
Ford handed the C-4 to Stackhouse as he waited on McKay’s answer, “Blow the other door.”
“He’s around the corner. I think his ribs are broke and he…can’t walk.”
“What do you mean he can’t walk?” Ford asked, unbelieving.
Rodney leaned harder into the wall as Ford’s voice pierced his ears and made him wince. Teyla grabbed for him, but he brushed her off, groping for the wall and turning the corner. They followed, concerned not only for Major Sheppard but McKay as well. There was no recrimination or sarcasm in his voice, only a profound weariness. Even more alarming was his total disregard for how badly he obviously felt as he determinedly made his way back to Sheppard.
Ford slipped around him and hurried to his commanding officer. He was sitting with his back to the wall, one hand balancing a canteen in his lap and while the other held a half eaten powerbar, that McKay had rushed back to him before blowing the door. Approaching Major Sheppard, he didn’t stir and Ford squatted in front of him, speaking softly to awaken him.
Teyla stayed with Rodney, her concern growing at the blank look in his eyes and the tightness of his features. As he got closer to Ford, his steps became cautious and he poked a foot forward before making each step. She noticed his hand then, the one that never left the wall and realization struck. Reaching out, she took his elbow and spoke gently, “Let me help you.”
Rodney was too tired to argue and he let her guide him. His whole body trembled under her touch and her concern mounted. Settling him next to the Major, she pulled off her jacket and bunched it up. “I think you should lie down, Doctor.”
Shaking his head, Rodney refused, “No…need to get out of here.”
Sheppard was coming around slowly, gasping when he drew too deep a breath, “Rodney?”
“He’s right here, sir,” answered Ford.
Turning to McKay, he dropped a hand on the scientists arm and said proudly, “Good job, Rodney.”
Rodney’s eyes were drifting shut as he tilted toward the major, his head falling on John’s shoulder. Ford reached out to move him but was waved off. “Let him be.”
Looking at Teyla, Sheppard wheezed, “Get the first aid kit and see if you can clean his head wound. It’s pretty nasty.” He tried for a deep breath and bit back a cough. His eyes clenched tight, he was barely able to whisper through the pain in his chest, “He needs food and water.”
Ford stood, “Teyla, can you see to it?” When she nodded he added, “ I’ll be right back, sir.” Leaving without explanation, he went to find Stackhouse. The men were already gearing up and he spoke to them, “Sergeant, take Williams and go to the gate. Tell Doctor Weir we need two pilots and a med team.”
Listening, Doctor Zelenka stepped forward almost hesitantly, “Lieutenant, I think you should tell them to hurry. We discussed the natives and think they are nocturnal.”
Frowning, Ford questioned, “Nocturnal?”
Radek nodded, “It means they come out at night. I believe that is why we have not seen them all day.”
“Shit,” exclaimed Ford. He turned to Stackhouse, “Double time it, Sergeant.”
“Yes, sir.” Stackhouse grabbed Williams and the two men took off running. Ford turned to the two remaining soldiers, “Set up a perimeter and keep your eyes open.” He looked at the scientists that lingered near the gear, grabbing what was theirs. “Get your gear and move back towards the building. It’ll be safer there.”
Teyla was rummaging through her pack for the first aid kit and powerbars as Dvorsky grabbed for his bag. Finding it already open, he commented sharply, “Where are my powerbars?” He stood up indignantly. “McKay took them. We sit around starving all day and he’s stealing powerbars to feed his face.”
About to lunge at the man, Teyla was shocked when Zelenka brought his elbow up and took out the scientist in a clean back stroke. He pushed up his glasses and reached for the downed man, “Am so sorry. Did not see you.” Looking up at Teyla he feigned innocence, “Was accident. He was going down, I was coming up. Very unfortunate.”
Smiling crookedly, Teyla raised an eyebrow, “I see that. Could you hand me the canteen, Doctor?”
Radek looked around and found a canteen. Handing it to her he asked, “How is Doctor McKay and Major Sheppard?”
She shook her head, “I do not know what they have been through, but the Major is suffering from broken ribs and Doctor McKay says he cannot walk.”
“And Rodney? He did not look so good.”
“He is trying to hide it, but I think he is blind and suffers from a concussion.”
Radek paled. Noting the first aid kit in her hand he gestured to it and asked, “Can I help?”
Teyla nodded, “If you could find a few more powerbars and some more water, I would be most appreciative.”
“Yes, yes, I can do that.” He reached for his own pack and pulled out a couple of bars. His canteen was nearly empty, so he approached Corporal Burns. “May I have your water for the Major and Doctor McKay?”
The young soldier removed it from his belt, “Sure, Doc.”
Muro obviously had missed the point of the earlier conversation and complained about the limited amount of water and how it wasn’t fair that McKay… Teyla was standing close enough that the scientist was on the ground with a stick in his throat before he had a chance to finish his tirade.
“If it were not for Doctor McKay you would still be in that cell. Personally, if you were of my people I would leave you to die on this planet along with your friend. Neither of you would survive long on your own. All you care about are yourselves and one day you will find that you are truly alone and no one will care. As for Doctor McKay, he has earned my respect as well as Lieutenant Ford’s and Major Sheppard’s. You have earned nothing but my contempt for the petty little man that you are.” She pressed the stick into his throat and glared at him sharply, “You and your friend would do well to stay out of my way.”
The man gasped as the stick was released and he scurried away. Radek joined her as she walked away. He asked politely as he looked over his shoulder still in awe, “You could show me stick thing, yes?”
Teyla turned to him and smiled, a small chuckle escaping, “I fear what such a weapon would be like in your hands, Doctor.”
“And this is wrong, how?” quipped Radek. Rounding the corner, his smile faded and his steps quickened, “We should hurry.”
A half hour later, Rodney’s head wound was clean and neatly wrapped and Teyla had convinced him to lie down. They tried to get him to eat, but it only made him sick. Major Sheppard’s ribs were tightly bound and he was given Tylenol to help some with pain. He was sleeping but it was restless. Doctor Beckett had assessed the situation over the radio and wouldn’t allow morphine, afraid it would further inhibit his breathing. He didn’t want Rodney to fall asleep, but it was getting harder and harder to keep him awake as more time passed.
Zelenka paced nervously between the two patients and the corner of the building as he scanned the sky for a jumper. “They should be here soon, yes?”
Teyla answered patiently, “I’m sure they will get here as soon as possible.”
One arm across his chest, the scientist chewed absently on his finger. “It will be dark soon.”
Ford piped up from his spot at the corner, his eyes never leaving the nearby forest, “Don’t worry, Doc, we still got a couple hours of daylight.”
In the next instant, two jumpers uncloaked right over their heads. One took up position while the other landed a short distance from building. As soon as it landed, the rear hatch opened and a full medical team appeared. Carson wasted no time exiting and his harried look marked his concern. Setting his gear down, he tended to Major Sheppard while Dr. Mills looked after McKay. It took all his concentration and professionalism to keep his focus on the Major and allow Rodney’s care to someone else.
When Dr. Mills couldn’t wake Rodney, Carson’s heart beat frantically and all his attention was suddenly fixated on his lover. He responded immediately, nudging the other doctor out of the way. They traded patients and after several attempts to wake Rodney with no response, he raised his voice in alarm, shouting orders to his people, “Get them both on stretchers and in the jumper. We’re leaving now!” It was well synchronized chaos as both men were prepped and ready to go in under five minutes.
Standing behind the group, Ford and Teyla looked on anxiously as both men were loaded on the jumper. . Ford followed them and spoke quickly to Doctor Beckett. “Don’t wait for us, Doc. We’ll be right behind you as soon as we load up.”
Nodding, Carson settled between both patients and began issuing orders even as the hatch was closing. Teyla, Ford and Zelenka watched the jumper take off and head for the gate before moving to load the second jumper. It would be a tight fit with men and equipment, but no one and nothing was left behind. They wouldn’t be returning to the planet.
*********
It was several hours later before Carson finally exited the infirmary to the waiting group. Teyla, Ford, Zelenka and Doctor Weir all stood up as he approached. He looked tired, and there was no mistaking the despair he was feeling. Elizabeth asked carefully, “How are they doing?”
Carson rubbed his brow and crossed his arms as he spoke to them, “Major Sheppard has three broken ribs as well as some rather serious bruising to his ribs and back.”
Teyla questioned him, “And his legs?”
“There was some nerve damage but Doctor Mills thinks he’ll be fine once the swelling goes down. He’s responding to touch so that’s a good sign.”
They all dreaded the next question, but it had to be asked. Elizabeth spoke up, “How is Rodney?”
Carson shook his head, his eyes bright. He paused a moment to gather himself and took a deep breath, letting it out slowly before he answered. “He’s suffered a severe concussion. We found some swelling but we’re hopeful we caught it in time and that medication keeps it under control. Otherwise we’ll have to do surgery to relieve the pressure.” He stopped and rubbed his eyes, “We are monitoring him closely for any changes.”
Elizabeth asked worriedly, “Is he going to be alright?”
“He’s in a coma. There is nothing we can do but what we are doing and hope it’s enough. Head wounds are never easy and complications are always possible.” It hurt Carson to say it out loud and he couldn’t make himself say anything about the long term possibilities. He couldn’t get the image of Rodney lying so still and pale out of his head.
They stared in shock, before Ford asked, “Did the major say what happened, Doc?”
“Not much. The natives used some sort of electrical shock on them. They both have numerous burns. Major Sheppard said that they were in some sort of underground city and it took a couple hours just to find their way out. They made it close to where you were and took a fall. Apparently they both were out for some time. Rodney managed to drag the Major to where you were and you know the rest.”
Teyla frowned, “What about Doctor McKay’s eyes?”
“We’re hoping that when the swelling goes down and he’s had time to recover that he’ll be able to see again.” Shifting on tired feet, Carson noted their concern and he hated to see them so worried. “I need to get back, but I thought you’d want to know. I’ll let you in to see Major Sheppard for a few moments and then I want him to rest. They were both exhausted and dehydrated. They’re both going to be here for some time so you’ll have plenty of time to visit, once they’ve rested.”
“Thank you, Doctor.” Teyla said.
“Aye, come on in then. You can see John.” Carson said, opening the doors and pointing to where Major Sheppard lay sleeping, “Try not to wake him. I’ll be with Rodney if you need me.”
Carson left them, going to Rodney’s bedside to check his vitals and assure himself that he was still there. Receiving word earlier that Rodney and John had been injured was alarming in and of itself. To see his lover lying so still when he’d arrived on the planet was terrifying, even worse when he wouldn’t wake up. He’d done all he could as a doctor and now it was a just a matter of waiting and hoping Rodney would wake up soon.
Carson sat on the edge of the bed, mindful of the tubes and wires and gently took Rodney’s hand in his own. He couldn’t stop the tears that gathered in his eyes and he muttered tenderly, “Don’t give up now, luv. You’ve made it this far for them. Keep fighting for me.”
Author: Chaps1870
Pairing: Rodney/Carson Sheppard Friendship
Rating: R for language
Summary: After finding out about Rodney and Carson’s relationship, John’s friendship with Rodney is threatened.
Disclaimer: They belong to someone else, I’ll return them when I’m done….maybe. No infringement of copyright is intended.
Chapter 21
Ford leapt up and moved to the door, “Hey, how about some food and water if you’re going to keep us in here?” He couldn’t see anyone, but he was sure someone was outside their cells going through the gear that had been piled in a heap before they’d been incarcerated. More scuffling and Ford could see a shadow on the opposite wall, moving closer. Standing on his toes, the high window made it difficult to see out, but he recognized their visitor. “McKay! Where’s Major Sheppard? Can you get us out of here?”
“He’s around the corner,” Rodney said, his voice tired. Ford didn’t like that the doctor was in charge of their escape, it meant the Major was too injured to do it. It wouldn’t do to dwell on it at the moment and seeing the C-4 in the doctor’s hand, ordered everyone away from the door as he watched him work.
“I hope you know what you’re doing.”
“I hope you were a good teacher,” muttered Rodney.
Ford smiled proudly, “I trust ya, McKay. Let me know when you’re ready.”
Rodney nodded and reached for the door, locating the locking mechanism with his fingers. There was probably a panel just like the one they dismantled earlier to get free of their own cell but without someone to guide him, he had to resort to a cruder method.
Tearing off a chunk of C-4, Mckay worked it between the door lock and the jam, hoping he was close enough to do some damage. Reaching into his pocket, he extracted the detonator and wedged it into the C-4. Taking the remote from the other pocket, his hands shook as he informed Ford to get down. Backing away until he felt the corner of the building, he slipped behind it for cover. A deep breath later he pushed the button and heard the muffled explosion from the hallway. It rocked him, sending another shock wave through his already splitting head. He staggered as he pushed away from the wall and rounding the corner, ran into both Teyla and Ford.
He handed off the remaining C-4 to Ford, “You’re in charge I need to help the major.”
Teyla asked, “Where is he? Is he hurt?”
Ford handed the C-4 to Stackhouse as he waited on McKay’s answer, “Blow the other door.”
“He’s around the corner. I think his ribs are broke and he…can’t walk.”
“What do you mean he can’t walk?” Ford asked, unbelieving.
Rodney leaned harder into the wall as Ford’s voice pierced his ears and made him wince. Teyla grabbed for him, but he brushed her off, groping for the wall and turning the corner. They followed, concerned not only for Major Sheppard but McKay as well. There was no recrimination or sarcasm in his voice, only a profound weariness. Even more alarming was his total disregard for how badly he obviously felt as he determinedly made his way back to Sheppard.
Ford slipped around him and hurried to his commanding officer. He was sitting with his back to the wall, one hand balancing a canteen in his lap and while the other held a half eaten powerbar, that McKay had rushed back to him before blowing the door. Approaching Major Sheppard, he didn’t stir and Ford squatted in front of him, speaking softly to awaken him.
Teyla stayed with Rodney, her concern growing at the blank look in his eyes and the tightness of his features. As he got closer to Ford, his steps became cautious and he poked a foot forward before making each step. She noticed his hand then, the one that never left the wall and realization struck. Reaching out, she took his elbow and spoke gently, “Let me help you.”
Rodney was too tired to argue and he let her guide him. His whole body trembled under her touch and her concern mounted. Settling him next to the Major, she pulled off her jacket and bunched it up. “I think you should lie down, Doctor.”
Shaking his head, Rodney refused, “No…need to get out of here.”
Sheppard was coming around slowly, gasping when he drew too deep a breath, “Rodney?”
“He’s right here, sir,” answered Ford.
Turning to McKay, he dropped a hand on the scientists arm and said proudly, “Good job, Rodney.”
Rodney’s eyes were drifting shut as he tilted toward the major, his head falling on John’s shoulder. Ford reached out to move him but was waved off. “Let him be.”
Looking at Teyla, Sheppard wheezed, “Get the first aid kit and see if you can clean his head wound. It’s pretty nasty.” He tried for a deep breath and bit back a cough. His eyes clenched tight, he was barely able to whisper through the pain in his chest, “He needs food and water.”
Ford stood, “Teyla, can you see to it?” When she nodded he added, “ I’ll be right back, sir.” Leaving without explanation, he went to find Stackhouse. The men were already gearing up and he spoke to them, “Sergeant, take Williams and go to the gate. Tell Doctor Weir we need two pilots and a med team.”
Listening, Doctor Zelenka stepped forward almost hesitantly, “Lieutenant, I think you should tell them to hurry. We discussed the natives and think they are nocturnal.”
Frowning, Ford questioned, “Nocturnal?”
Radek nodded, “It means they come out at night. I believe that is why we have not seen them all day.”
“Shit,” exclaimed Ford. He turned to Stackhouse, “Double time it, Sergeant.”
“Yes, sir.” Stackhouse grabbed Williams and the two men took off running. Ford turned to the two remaining soldiers, “Set up a perimeter and keep your eyes open.” He looked at the scientists that lingered near the gear, grabbing what was theirs. “Get your gear and move back towards the building. It’ll be safer there.”
Teyla was rummaging through her pack for the first aid kit and powerbars as Dvorsky grabbed for his bag. Finding it already open, he commented sharply, “Where are my powerbars?” He stood up indignantly. “McKay took them. We sit around starving all day and he’s stealing powerbars to feed his face.”
About to lunge at the man, Teyla was shocked when Zelenka brought his elbow up and took out the scientist in a clean back stroke. He pushed up his glasses and reached for the downed man, “Am so sorry. Did not see you.” Looking up at Teyla he feigned innocence, “Was accident. He was going down, I was coming up. Very unfortunate.”
Smiling crookedly, Teyla raised an eyebrow, “I see that. Could you hand me the canteen, Doctor?”
Radek looked around and found a canteen. Handing it to her he asked, “How is Doctor McKay and Major Sheppard?”
She shook her head, “I do not know what they have been through, but the Major is suffering from broken ribs and Doctor McKay says he cannot walk.”
“And Rodney? He did not look so good.”
“He is trying to hide it, but I think he is blind and suffers from a concussion.”
Radek paled. Noting the first aid kit in her hand he gestured to it and asked, “Can I help?”
Teyla nodded, “If you could find a few more powerbars and some more water, I would be most appreciative.”
“Yes, yes, I can do that.” He reached for his own pack and pulled out a couple of bars. His canteen was nearly empty, so he approached Corporal Burns. “May I have your water for the Major and Doctor McKay?”
The young soldier removed it from his belt, “Sure, Doc.”
Muro obviously had missed the point of the earlier conversation and complained about the limited amount of water and how it wasn’t fair that McKay… Teyla was standing close enough that the scientist was on the ground with a stick in his throat before he had a chance to finish his tirade.
“If it were not for Doctor McKay you would still be in that cell. Personally, if you were of my people I would leave you to die on this planet along with your friend. Neither of you would survive long on your own. All you care about are yourselves and one day you will find that you are truly alone and no one will care. As for Doctor McKay, he has earned my respect as well as Lieutenant Ford’s and Major Sheppard’s. You have earned nothing but my contempt for the petty little man that you are.” She pressed the stick into his throat and glared at him sharply, “You and your friend would do well to stay out of my way.”
The man gasped as the stick was released and he scurried away. Radek joined her as she walked away. He asked politely as he looked over his shoulder still in awe, “You could show me stick thing, yes?”
Teyla turned to him and smiled, a small chuckle escaping, “I fear what such a weapon would be like in your hands, Doctor.”
“And this is wrong, how?” quipped Radek. Rounding the corner, his smile faded and his steps quickened, “We should hurry.”
A half hour later, Rodney’s head wound was clean and neatly wrapped and Teyla had convinced him to lie down. They tried to get him to eat, but it only made him sick. Major Sheppard’s ribs were tightly bound and he was given Tylenol to help some with pain. He was sleeping but it was restless. Doctor Beckett had assessed the situation over the radio and wouldn’t allow morphine, afraid it would further inhibit his breathing. He didn’t want Rodney to fall asleep, but it was getting harder and harder to keep him awake as more time passed.
Zelenka paced nervously between the two patients and the corner of the building as he scanned the sky for a jumper. “They should be here soon, yes?”
Teyla answered patiently, “I’m sure they will get here as soon as possible.”
One arm across his chest, the scientist chewed absently on his finger. “It will be dark soon.”
Ford piped up from his spot at the corner, his eyes never leaving the nearby forest, “Don’t worry, Doc, we still got a couple hours of daylight.”
In the next instant, two jumpers uncloaked right over their heads. One took up position while the other landed a short distance from building. As soon as it landed, the rear hatch opened and a full medical team appeared. Carson wasted no time exiting and his harried look marked his concern. Setting his gear down, he tended to Major Sheppard while Dr. Mills looked after McKay. It took all his concentration and professionalism to keep his focus on the Major and allow Rodney’s care to someone else.
When Dr. Mills couldn’t wake Rodney, Carson’s heart beat frantically and all his attention was suddenly fixated on his lover. He responded immediately, nudging the other doctor out of the way. They traded patients and after several attempts to wake Rodney with no response, he raised his voice in alarm, shouting orders to his people, “Get them both on stretchers and in the jumper. We’re leaving now!” It was well synchronized chaos as both men were prepped and ready to go in under five minutes.
Standing behind the group, Ford and Teyla looked on anxiously as both men were loaded on the jumper. . Ford followed them and spoke quickly to Doctor Beckett. “Don’t wait for us, Doc. We’ll be right behind you as soon as we load up.”
Nodding, Carson settled between both patients and began issuing orders even as the hatch was closing. Teyla, Ford and Zelenka watched the jumper take off and head for the gate before moving to load the second jumper. It would be a tight fit with men and equipment, but no one and nothing was left behind. They wouldn’t be returning to the planet.
*********
It was several hours later before Carson finally exited the infirmary to the waiting group. Teyla, Ford, Zelenka and Doctor Weir all stood up as he approached. He looked tired, and there was no mistaking the despair he was feeling. Elizabeth asked carefully, “How are they doing?”
Carson rubbed his brow and crossed his arms as he spoke to them, “Major Sheppard has three broken ribs as well as some rather serious bruising to his ribs and back.”
Teyla questioned him, “And his legs?”
“There was some nerve damage but Doctor Mills thinks he’ll be fine once the swelling goes down. He’s responding to touch so that’s a good sign.”
They all dreaded the next question, but it had to be asked. Elizabeth spoke up, “How is Rodney?”
Carson shook his head, his eyes bright. He paused a moment to gather himself and took a deep breath, letting it out slowly before he answered. “He’s suffered a severe concussion. We found some swelling but we’re hopeful we caught it in time and that medication keeps it under control. Otherwise we’ll have to do surgery to relieve the pressure.” He stopped and rubbed his eyes, “We are monitoring him closely for any changes.”
Elizabeth asked worriedly, “Is he going to be alright?”
“He’s in a coma. There is nothing we can do but what we are doing and hope it’s enough. Head wounds are never easy and complications are always possible.” It hurt Carson to say it out loud and he couldn’t make himself say anything about the long term possibilities. He couldn’t get the image of Rodney lying so still and pale out of his head.
They stared in shock, before Ford asked, “Did the major say what happened, Doc?”
“Not much. The natives used some sort of electrical shock on them. They both have numerous burns. Major Sheppard said that they were in some sort of underground city and it took a couple hours just to find their way out. They made it close to where you were and took a fall. Apparently they both were out for some time. Rodney managed to drag the Major to where you were and you know the rest.”
Teyla frowned, “What about Doctor McKay’s eyes?”
“We’re hoping that when the swelling goes down and he’s had time to recover that he’ll be able to see again.” Shifting on tired feet, Carson noted their concern and he hated to see them so worried. “I need to get back, but I thought you’d want to know. I’ll let you in to see Major Sheppard for a few moments and then I want him to rest. They were both exhausted and dehydrated. They’re both going to be here for some time so you’ll have plenty of time to visit, once they’ve rested.”
“Thank you, Doctor.” Teyla said.
“Aye, come on in then. You can see John.” Carson said, opening the doors and pointing to where Major Sheppard lay sleeping, “Try not to wake him. I’ll be with Rodney if you need me.”
Carson left them, going to Rodney’s bedside to check his vitals and assure himself that he was still there. Receiving word earlier that Rodney and John had been injured was alarming in and of itself. To see his lover lying so still when he’d arrived on the planet was terrifying, even worse when he wouldn’t wake up. He’d done all he could as a doctor and now it was a just a matter of waiting and hoping Rodney would wake up soon.
Carson sat on the edge of the bed, mindful of the tubes and wires and gently took Rodney’s hand in his own. He couldn’t stop the tears that gathered in his eyes and he muttered tenderly, “Don’t give up now, luv. You’ve made it this far for them. Keep fighting for me.”