It Was For The Best - Part 2

Hey, what a great surprise! It's an update! :D

I think it will be heart-wrenching when Irina & Jack are going to talk about their feelings. :o_O:

Thanks for the PM and don't forget to update again soon please.
 
Hey, what a great surprise! It's an update! :D
Yes it is, and I can hardly believe it myself. :LOL:

I think it will be heart-wrenching when Irina & Jack are going to talk about their feelings. :o_O:
I haven't really given that much thought into what they'll say to each other, so I don't know how heart-wrenching it'll be - hope I won't dissappoint when they'll have that conversation.

Thanks for the PM and don't forget to update again soon please.
My pleasure. I can't promise you when I'll update again. Hopefully it'll be soon, but I'm not making any promises.

Thank you nicewoman. :smiley:
 
Next chapter is here. Thank you all so much for reading and commenting. It means so much. :smiley:

Chapter 30
The next morning the triplets walked into Jack’s room. They greeted him good morning and a few seconds later Irina came into the room.

“Morning, Jack.”

“Morning.”

“How did you sleep?”

“Just fine.”

“You didn’t have any problems from sitting up yesterday?”

“No, none at all.”

“That’s good.”

“How did you sleep?”

“Just fine too.”

“Good.”

“I sent a text message to Sydney and Nadia last night to let them know that you’ll be on the phone tonight. I got a message back from Sydney. Nadia, Eric, Becky, David, and Katya will be at Sydney’s tonight. Sergei, Will, Rachel, and T.J. are staying with Sydney and Michael, so they’ll be there too.” Jack nodded.

“It’s going to be good talking to them.”

“Yeah, they’re certainly looking forward to hearing from you.”

“I’m looking forward to hearing from them too.”

“And just think, daddy, soon we’ll be able to go home and see everyone again.” Jack smiled at Caitie.

“Yes, you’re absolutely right.” He smiled at Ethan and Maddie too, and then looked at Irina. “Could you go and get the nurse, and tell her I’d like to sit up?”

“Don’t you think, it’s best, you wait until the nurse comes to see you? Or better yet the doctor?”

“No, I really want to sit up now. The doctor said I should help set the pace for my recovery as long as I didn’t overdue it. I know better than anyone what my body can take, and I’m tired of lying down. So would you please get the nurse?” Irina nodded slightly.

“Of course.” She left and Jack looked at the triplets.

“So, what’s on the agenda for today?”

“Mommy suggested we go to the playground.”

“And that we could also do a bit of shopping.”

Jack sighed inwardly at the thought of spending more hours alone, but he smiled at the triplets. He knew that it was important for them and Irina to be outside and to feel free after spending so much time locked up.

“It sounds like you have a busy day planned. I’ll be looking forward to hearing all about it.”

“We’ll be looking forward to telling you about it.”

They continued talking and a few minutes later Irina returned with a nurse.

“Good morning all.” Jack and the triplets greeted the nurse. “How are you feeling today, Mr. Bristow?”

“Better than yesterday.”

“Any discomfort from sitting up yesterday?”

“No, none at all.”

“That’s really good to hear. Two other nurses will be along in a minute to help, and after we’ve helped you to sit up, I’ll get you your breakfast.”

“Well in that case we should eat too.” The triplets looked at Irina and nodded. Jack looked at Irina.

“Are you leaving right after you’ve eaten, or are you coming back here before you leave?” She looked at him a little oddly. “The triplets said you’re going sightseeing and shopping.”

“Oh. Well, we’ll be back to brush our teeth. But other than that I think we’ll leave right after.” Jack nodded.

“Okay.”

The two other nurses entered. Irina looked at them greeting them with a nod and a smile, and then looked back at Jack.

“Time for us to leave.” She looked at the triplets. “Come on, sweethearts.” She started walking towards the door. The triplets followed her, and waved at Jack before going out the door. He waved at them, and Irina looked at him before going out the door. “See you in a little while.” He nodded.

“Yeah. Enjoy breakfast.”

“You too.” She left and Jack waited until the nurses had left to sigh.

When Irina and the triplets returned a while later Jack was done with breakfast.

“Hi daddy.”

“Hi. Are you all set to leave?”

“Yes, we are. We just came to say goodbye.”

“Can we bring you back anything?” Jack smiled.

“Thank you for the offer, but I don’t really know what that should be.”

“Well if you think of something give us a call.” Ethan took Jack’s phone from the table and placed it on the bed next to Jack’s hand. Jack couldn’t help but laugh a little.

“Thank you very much. I will.” He reached out and stroked Ethan on the top of his head.

Irina held her breath when she saw Jack move his hand. She’d seen the improvements he was making daily, but she was still worried that he’d overdue it and get worse. She needed some fresh air to help her get her mind off of things, and knew that getting out of the hospital would also allow Jack to get some rest. She walked closer to the triplets and placed a hand on Ethan’s shoulder.

“Are you all ready to go?” They nodded.

“Yes, mommy.”

“Good, then let’s leave so that daddy can get some rest.”

“Okay.” The triplets looked at Jack. “See you later, daddy.”

“We’ll bring you back something.” Jack smiled.

“I look forward to see what you get. Have a nice time.”

“We will. Bye, daddy.”

“See you later, Jack.” Irina smiled a little and he smiled back a little.

“Yeah, see you later. Bye.”

When they’d left, Jack sighed. He looked around the room, and didn’t know how to pass the time. He thought about asking for something to read, but also didn’t want to use the call button. He didn’t want the nurses to come rushing to the room if they thought that he was in pain, just to find out that all he wanted was something to read in. He was also not the type to yell out to them. So he sighed and looked up into the ceiling waiting for when one of the nurses would come and check on him.

While he waited, he was left with his thoughts. Most of his thoughts went to Kashmir and the DVDs they’d watched. The images of Cuvee raping Irina over and over, and how he’d forced her to give him blowjobs plagued his mind. He closed his eyes shut and took a couple of deep breaths trying to get those images out of his head. But no matter how hard he tried he couldn’t get the images off his mind.

His thoughts then went to the time in Kashmir when Cuvee and Sloane were about to put him through the same kind of torture that Geiger put him through years ago. He couldn’t believe that Irina told them to put her through that torture, or do whatever they wanted to do to her so that he would be left alone. He knew that she’d do anything for him, but he would never want her to sacrifice herself like that, though he’d do the same for her. He couldn’t believe that she’d asked them to rape her, when she’d been raped so much in the past, and since they’d watched that on the DVDs.

He remembered how pale she’d looked the first time they’d watched one of the DVDs, and how she’d only gotten paler with each DVD they’d watched. He also remembered the empty look in her eyes and still wondered what seeing herself, like that had done to her. He still wondered if he should ask her about it, but also knew that it was painful for her to talk about, and therefore he knew it would be best to give her, her space, and let her come to him when she was ready to talk.

He was glad he’d killed Cuvee before he had a chance to rape Irina again. But even if Cuvee had raped her, he knew it wouldn’t change the way he felt about her. He would still love her as much as he’d done before. Though, he feared what it would’ve done to Irina, and also feared what all of Cuvee’s groping had done to her. In a way she seemed fine to him, but he also believed that she was probably bottling up her feelings. This only made him want to talk to her even more, but again he knew that she might not be ready to talk, and that’s why he wanted her to come to him.

Intimacy of any kind was something he didn’t want to force on her either. He wanted to kiss her, caress her cheek, or simply hold her hand, but he also feared that touching her even the slightest could make things worse and make her even more afraid of intimacy, and he didn’t want to make her uncomfortable, or pressure her into doing something she wasn’t ready to do yet.

A few tears escaped his eyes. He wiped them away and shook his head trying to make the images go away. Taking another deep breath he tried to think of happier times. He thought of Christmas at the cabin, and with everything that entailed like building a snowman, reading a story in front of the fireplace, decorating the tree, and dancing with Irina in the snow. He smiled at the memories, and continued to think of happier times the best he could.

Nearly two hours after Irina and the triplets had left a nurse came to his room. He requested for something to read in, and she came back with newspapers, magazines and books. The reading helped get his mind off of Kashmir even more, but every now and then as he read, Kashmir would creep into his mind again.

It was late in the afternoon when Irina and the triplets came back to the hospital. The triplets walked into his room first and he smiled at them and laughed a little at all the bags they were carrying.

“Hi, daddy.”

“Hi sweethearts. I see you did quite a bit of shopping.”

“Yes, we did. Do you want to see what we got?”

“Yes, I’d love to.”

“We got you a couple of new shirts.”

“We hope you’ll like them.” He smiled at them.

“I’m sure I’ll love them.”

They showed him everything they bought, and just like he’d said, he loved the shirts they’d bought for him. Other than the shirts for him, they’d bought some new coloring books, a few toys, and some clothes for themselves. They also showed him what Irina had bought for herself. That included a few shirts, a skirt, and a perfume.

When Irina walked in they were going through some of the brochures that they’d taken from the places they’d visited. She bit her bottom lip thinking he was overdoing it, but smiled a little when everyone looked at her.

“Hi.”

“Hi.”

“Hi, mommy. We’re showing daddy the places we visited today.”

“It seems like you visited some nice places, and I’ve heard you had a great time.” Irina nodded at Jack.

“Yeah, we certainly did, and the places we visited were quite nice.” He nodded.

“I’m glad.” She nodded again, and then looked at the triplets.

“Why don’t you take all the stuff we bought into our room?”

“Okay, mommy.” The triplets gathered all the things and left the room. Irina noticed all the books, magazines, and newspapers lying around.

“Have you been reading?”

“Yes.”

“Do you think that’s such a good idea? You should really take it easy, and not rush your recovery.”

“What else is there for me to do?”

“No, I know, but still. Don’t overdue it.”

“I’ll hardly overdue it and it won’t interfere with my recovery. It’s just reading.”

“Yes, but you should be resting.”

“I am resting. If the doctor didn’t think it was a good idea, he would’ve told me. When he examined me today, he said I was doing better than yesterday, and he was impressed by my progress.”

“Yes, I know, I just talked to him.” Jack got a little annoyed.

“Well, then trust what the doctor’s telling you, and trust me when I tell you that I’m fine, and that I know how much my body can take and that I would never overdue it.”

“Okay, okay. No need to get worked up over it.” They stayed silent until the triplets returned a few moments later. Jack smiled at them.

“How about you tell me more about your time out?”

“Okay, daddy.”

They talked about their time out until it was time for dinner. Irina and the triplets went to the cafeteria to eat, while Jack was left alone in his room. When he was done eating, he picked up the book he’d been reading in the afternoon, and was still reading when they came back a while later.

“Hi, daddy. How was dinner?” Jack laughed a little.

“I’ve had better.” The triplets laughed a little too.

“Soon you’ll be able to come home and have a home cooked meal.”

“Yeah, I look forward to that.”

“We look forward to that too, and to going home.”

“We’ll be able to do that soon. As you know the doctor says I’m doing better with every passing day, so we should probably be able to leave in a week or so.”

“That’s really good news.”

“Yeah, I think so too.”

“Since it’ll be a while before we’re going to call home, do you want to play cards with us, daddy?”

“I’d love to.”

Irina bit her bottom lip again, not thinking it was a good idea to let Jack join in the card game. But she also didn’t want to argue with him again, remembering what happened earlier, and knowing that, that definitely wasn’t good for his recovery. Maddie looked at Irina.

“Mommy, you’re playing too, right?” Irina smiled at her.

“Of course.”

They pulled up chairs around Jack’s bed and played cards until it was time to call home. Irina dialed the number, put the speaker on, and put the phone down on the bed so that everyone could talk.

“Hi guys.” Jack smiled at hearing Sydney’s voice.

“Hi sweetheart.”

“HI GRANDPA.” Jack laughed when all the grandchildren yelled out to him at the same time.

“Hello to you too, sweethearts.”

“WE’VE MISSED YOU.”

“Why don’t you talk to grandpa one at a time?” They heard Sydney addressing the children before she got back on the phone with them again. “Sorry about that, dad.” Jack chuckled.

“It’s okay.”

“Hi grandpa. How are you? This is Isabelle by the way.” He chuckled again.

“Yeah, I can hear that. I’m getting better every day, and I’ve missed you too. I’ve missed all of you.”

“Hi grandpa. Oh, yeah. HI GRANDMA, CAITIE, MADDIE, AND ETHAN.” They all laughed at Becky.

“HI GRANDMA, CAITIE, MADDIE, AND ETHAN.” They laughed at Isabelle and Sarah too, when they shouted into the phone.

“Hi sweethearts.”

“Hi.” The triplets greeted everyone simultaneously.

“Grandpa?”

“Yes, Becky.”

“When are you all coming home?”

“It’ll be a little while yet. But probably in a week or so.”

“I wish you’d all come home sooner.”

“Yeah, we’d wish that too.”

“Hang on, grandpa. Sarah wants to talk to you.” Jack smiled.

“Okay.”

“Hi grandpa.”

“Hi sweetheart.”

“I don’t really have a question for you. I just wanted to say hi.” Jack chuckled again.

“Hi yourself.”

“I have something I need to tell grandpa.”

“Grandpa, Isabelle wants to talk to you again.”


“Okay, put her on.”

“Grandpa, uncle Kendall, uncle Marshall, aunt, Carrie, Mitchell, Matt, Chloe, Gracie, uncle Marcus, Stephen, Robin, and Hayden says hi too. They couldn’t be here tonight.”

“Thank you. Say hi to them from me the next time you see them.”

“I will. Daddy, aunt Nadia, uncle Eric, uncle Sergei, Katya, uncle Will, and aunt Rachel are here. Do you want to talk to any of them?”

“Yeah, I’d like that.”

“Okay, hang on.”

They spent a little more than an hour and a half talking to everyone at home. When they hung up Irina looked at the triplets.

“Time for bed.” She looked at Jack. “I’m guessing you’re tired too.” He nodded.

“Yeah, a bit.”

“I’ll go and get the nurse, and then go make our beds ready. I’ll be back later.”

“Okay.” She left and the triplets spent a few minutes saying goodnight to Jack. After they’d left Irina returned to the room a few minutes later.

“The nurse will be here in a few minutes.”

“Okay, thanks.”

“Sure.” They were silent for a few seconds not really knowing what to say to each other.

“It was nice talking to everyone again.”

“Yes, absolutely. I mean, I know I’ve talked to them before. But when I talked to them that first time after not talking to them for so long, it was really great. So I can only imagine it was the same for you.” He nodded.

“Yeah, most definitely.” They were silent for a few more seconds. Irina tugged a loose strand of hair behind her ear and looked at Jack.

“Well, I should let you get your rest. Goodnight Jack.”

“Goodnight.” She turned to leave, but only took a few steps before Jack called out to her. “Irina?” She turned around.

“Yes, Jack.”

He looked at her and wanted to ask her how she was doing. He wanted them to talk about what happened, but also realized that he wouldn’t push her, when it seemed to him that she clearly wasn’t ready. The last thing he wanted to do was push her further away.

“How are the triplets? I mean, they seem fine, but still.”

“I’ve talked to them about what they went through. Sydney and Nadia have too. They were scared, but were not tortured, though they were blindfolded and tied up for most of the time, which is of course horrible enough.” He nodded. “However, they were given food and water, and allowed trips to the bathroom, where they had a chance to wash up a bit too. But I think that being around the two of us have helped them a lot. You know how they were in Russia when you came there and how they were for a while after we moved to L.A.”

“Yeah, I remember.”

“We’re their safety net, and as long as they’re with us, they’re at ease.”

“We should probably still talk to them about what happened. I think it’ll do them good to talk about it again, and also with me hearing about it and being there.”

“Of course.”

“Maybe we could talk about it tomorrow after lunch? I think the sooner we talk to them the better. And if we talk to them after lunch they’ll have time to go outside and get some fresh air and get their minds off of it.”

“Yeah, I think that’s better rather than wait until just before bedtime.”

“Exactly. So we have a deal then? Tomorrow after lunch we’ll talk to the triplets about their time being captured?”

“Yes.”

“You’re okay with that?” She smiled a little

“Yes, I’m fine with that.”

Jack didn’t believe she was completely fine with it. He hoped the triplets wouldn’t ask them any questions that they, or especially Irina, weren’t ready to answer. He himself also didn’t want to be the reason for the conversation to go into a direction Irina wasn’t ready for. But he also believed that they should both talk to the triplets about what happened to them and their feelings, as soon as possible. He promised himself that the conversation tomorrow would be about the triplets and not about Irina and him. He nodded.

“Okay.”

“Anything else?” He shook his head.

“No that was it.”

“Okay. Goodnight.”

“Goodnight.” She left and Jack sighed and waited for the nurses to come into the room, so that he could get some sleep.

The next morning when the triplets walked out of Jack’s room to go to the cafeteria for breakfast, Irina stayed behind for a few seconds. She and Jack agreed that she would take the triplets outside for a walk after breakfast and tell them that she and Jack would be talking to them after lunch about their time in Kashmir. That way they’d be prepared.

Jack spent the time reading but also worrying about how the conversation would go. He didn’t want to make the triplets uncomfortable, but he needed to hear for himself how they were doing. He didn’t think that they would hide how they felt, if they were still very shook up about being captured. But he also wouldn’t put it passed them to be more worried about Irina and himself than their own wellbeing, which is why he thought it’d be best that he and Irina talked to them together.

During the time Jack was waiting for Irina and the triplets, he was also examined by the doctor, who told him he was making further progress in his recovery. Jack then asked that he, Irina, and the triplets be left alone when his lunch tray had been taken away. The doctor had agreed to that, and had told Jack that he’d let the nurses know not to come to his room until Irina had told them that they could come back in.

When Jack’s lunch tray had been taken away, he picked up the book he’d been reading to pass the time until Irina and the triplets came back. A lot of time passed and he figured that the reason for that was that either Irina or the triplets were a bit nervous about the conversation.

The second they walked into his room he put the book down and looked up at them smiling.

“Hi.”

“Hi, daddy.”

“How are you feeling, daddy?”

“I feel fine, thank you. The doctor examined me awhile ago, and he said that I was doing better and was impressed with my recovery.”

“That’s great news, daddy.”

“Yeah, I think so too. Now what about you? How are you doing?”

“We’re fine.”

“Mommy told you what we’d be talking about?” They all nodded. “How do you feel about talking about it again?” They all shrugged.

“We’d rather not.”

“We’d rather put it behind us.”

“But we also know it might be good for us if we talk about it again.”

“Yeah, mommy and I think that’ll be best for you. But if you at any time feel uncomfortable and don’t want to continue, let us know and we’ll stop talking about it. Okay?”

“Yes, daddy.” He smiled at them.

“Good. Pull the chairs over here, and let’s start out slowly from the beginning.”

Irina and the triplets pulled the chairs up next to Jack’s bed and all sat on the same side. When they were seated the triplets looked at each other for a few seconds, and then Ethan started talking.

“Well, we were out for recess and playing with our friends. Then suddenly out of nowhere two vans came, racing into the school yard. We were too surprised to move, and before we knew it, they grabbed us and took us with them.”

“When we got in the van, we were drugged, and we can’t really tell you anything about our trip to where we were held captured. We each woke up from time to time, but were drugged again.”

“When we then finally woke up completely, we were tied up and blindfolded, and we started crying out for you and mommy. We got more and more scared when no one came, but we also tried to stay as calm as we could by talking to each other.”

The triplets stayed silent for a little while and all looked down in the floor. Both Jack and Irina looked at them a little concerned. Neither of them wanted to push the triplets into going on, so they stayed silent too. After another few moments of silence had passed, Irina stroked Caitie on the back. Caitie looked up at her, and Maddie and Ethan looked up too. Maddie looked at Jack and he felt reassured that he could push her, a little into talking again. He smiled at her.

“Then what happened?”

“After a while the door opened and two people walked in. Then they walked over to us and removed our blindfolds.”

“One of them was taller than the other, but they were both rather old. They had an evil look on their faces and that scared us even more.”

“They started talking about how we’d never see you two again, or anyone else we knew. Then the short guy said that he’d be our new daddy, and that we would come to learn that mommy abandoned us. They said they’d brainwash us into believing that, and that there was nothing anyone could do to prevent that.”

“That only scared us even more, and we started crying and calling out for you even harder. They started laughing at us, and continued to laugh for a little while. Then they blindfolded us again and they left.”

“Some time later the short guy came back with a few guards to bring us food and water. We were skeptical about eating and drinking anything he brought us, but he ate a piece of carrot to prove to us that it wasn’t poisoned or drugged, so we decided to go ahead and eat. The water bottles hadn’t been opened, so we decided that, that probably wasn’t poisoned or drugged either.” Jack smiled at them.

“You did the right thing.” They smiled back at him a little, and also smiled at Irina, who also smiled at them.

“Yes, you did.” They nodded and Maddie went on.

“The guards then tied us differently so that we could eat. Then they left, but the short guy stayed with us for a little while.”

“He said that he was an old friend of yours, and that he also knew Sydney and Nadia. He said that you had betrayed him, which was why he wanted to get back at you by taking us. He also said you didn’t deserve us and that he’d do a better job at raising us than you did.”

“After talking to us for a while, he left so we could finish our food, and told us that if we needed to go to the restroom we should just call out because there were guards right outside the door.”

“We were left alone for a while, and when he came back and asked us if we needed to use the restroom, we decided to agree to that because we really needed to go. We were taken to the restroom one by one, but he didn’t really say much to any of us. When we were all back again, we were blindfolded and tied up the same way as before we ate.”

“After that the same thing happened day after day. However, he was the only one, out of the two men, who came to see us. He’d usually be there when we ate. Though, the last few days we were there, he wasn’t there for that many of the meals. He didn’t say much to us because we didn’t talk to him, but he did say that it wouldn’t be long before we were brainwashed and to him becoming our daddy.”

“When we weren’t eating, we’d be tied up and blindfolded and left alone. The only time we’d be free was when we went to the restroom. He allowed us to wash up a bit too.”

“Did he ever hit you or hurt you in any other way? Did the guards?”

“No, daddy. The only thing, which hurt, was him telling us, he’d be our new daddy, and that we’d never see you and mommy again, or anyone else from home.”

“Did anything else happen?”

“No. We got more and more scared that we’d never see you again, and it was hard to believe that we would. But then Nadia and Eric came, and we knew that we’d be alright and that we’d see you again.”

“Though, the first few days here in the hospital we didn’t really know what would happen to you, and we were scared that we’d lose you.” Ethan then smiled at his father. “But then we realized that you’d be just fine even if the doctor didn’t think so, and that helped us feel better and better each day.”

Jack looked at Ethan puzzled and looked at Maddie and Caitie the same way. He then looked at Irina, who looked just as puzzled as him. She caught his eyes and shrugged, not knowing either what Ethan was referring to. Jack then looked back at Ethan and just decided to smile.

“I’m glad.” Maddie looked from one parent to the other.

“Was that short guy really your friend?” Jack and Irina looked at each other, and Jack gave her a nod indicating he’d answer.

“He was once. Or at least he was my friend. But he did some bad things, and I realized a long time ago that he was never really my friend to begin with, or at least not after mommy and I got married. Friends don’t hurt each other the way he hurt mommy and me.”

“What about that other guy?” Caitie looked at her mother. “That one time he was with us he said that he was a close friend of yours, and that he knew you really, really well.” Irina swallowed and Jack could see that she was uncomfortable with the mention of Cuvee. Irina shook her head and looked at Caitie.

“I knew him, but he was never my friend. Never.” She gave Caitie a little smile. “You don’t ever have to worry about him anymore. He will never be a problem again.” She looked at Maddie and Ethan too, and all three nodded. Irina avoided eye contact with Jack.

“What about the short guy? What happened to him?” Jack took a deep breath, hoping the answer wouldn’t scare them or upset them.

“Unfortunately, he got away.” Both Jack and Irina saw a glimpse of fear in the triplets’ eyes. “He was injured before he got away, and in the same place he’d been injured before, so there’s a good chance that he’ll never be able to hurt anyone again. When we go home, we’ll make sure that you’re well protected wherever you go. Please don’t let him scare you, because we’ll make sure that he can’t get to you again. Okay?” Jack gave the triplets a reassuring smile, and they felt more at ease.

“Okay, daddy.” They looked at Irina too, and felt more at ease when she also gave them a reassuring smile.

“Good. Did anything else happen that you’d like to talk about?” They shook their heads.

“No that was all that happened while we were there.”

“So how do you feel now that you’ve had some time to keep it at bay?”

“We feel a lot better.”

“How could we not feel better when we’re with you and mommy?” They smiled at their parents and they smiled back at the triplets. “We know that we’re safe with you and mommy, and that we have nothing to be afraid of when we’re with you.”

“That’s why we also haven’t thought much about what happened. Well, we don’t really want to think about it, but we can put it passed us somewhat fast because we’re safe now and we’re around you and mommy.”

Jack and Irina smiled at them again, and also looked at each other and for the first time since Jack woke up they gave each other a bigger smile than they’d done before. But it only lasted for a few seconds as Irina looked at the triplets again. Jack sighed inwardly thinking she was still uncomfortable with the mention of especially Cuvee, so he too focused his attention on the triplets again.

“What about at night? Do you have any nightmares about what happened?” The triplets shook their heads.

“No, no nightmares.”

“Since we came to the hospital we’ve been near you and mommy when we’ve slept, so that’s been enough to make us sleep soundly and it still is.”

Jack looked at Caitie a little oddly not knowing what she meant by sleeping near him too. He wrote it off as her meaning that his room was not that far from the room they slept in and smiled at her.

“We’re very glad to hear that. But if you do have any problems or if there’s anything you’d like to talk about, you come and tell us. We don’t want you to have problems later on because you held something back now or didn’t talk about it enough.”

“And if you feel you can’t talk to us about it for some reason, please talk to someone else about it. Talk to Sydney or Nadia or anyone.” The triplets nodded.

“We will.”

Jack looked at Irina wondering if she had been referring to herself. He wondered if she’d talk to someone else instead of talking to him. He hoped that she’d talk to him, but also still didn’t want to push her into talking. Deciding not to think more about it now, he turned his attention back to the triplets.

“So how do you feel right now after having just talked about everything?” The triplets shrugged.

“We feel okay. We talked to you about it and that’s better than talking to some psychiatrist.”

“It’s better to talk to someone you know rather than talk to a stranger.”

“Do we have to talk to a psychiatrist at home?”

Jack and Irina looked at each other and without discussing it they knew that the triplets would be fine and didn’t need to talk to a professional about what happened. They nodded at each other and then looked back at the triplets. Irina shook her head.

“No, you don’t have to talk to anyone when we get home if you don’t want to. You seem to be doing very well, and daddy and I are very happy about that. But like we said, if you want to talk about it again, you come and talk to us.”

“We will, mommy.”

“Do you want to talk more about it now?”

“No, we’ve said everything there is to say about it.”

“Okay. Thank you very much for telling us about it, and for also telling me. We know it can’t be easy to talk about and relive, so we really appreciate you talking about it.” Maddie smiled at him.

“You’re welcome, daddy.” He smiled back at Maddie and motioned for her to come to him and give him a hug.

“Come here, sweetheart.” She got up from her seat and put her arms around Jack’s neck allowing him to hug her back as much as he could, and positioning herself so that she wouldn’t hurt his stitches. He kissed her cheek, and then looked at her smiling. “I love you.” She smiled back.

“I love you too, daddy.”

When Jack hugged Maddie, Irina bit her bottom lip. She was afraid that he was pushing himself too far, and that it could cause him to have a set back. To take her eyes off of it she motioned for Caitie to give her a hug. She gave her the same treatment that Jack was giving Maddie. Ethan and Caitie also got the same treatment from their father that Maddie did, and Maddie and Ethan got the same treatment from their mother that Caitie did.

Irina looked around at the triplets when she’d hugged and kissed Ethan.

“So do you three want to go out for a walk to get your mind off of everything?” They shook their heads simultaneously.

“No, we’d rather stay here and play cards with daddy or a board game.” Ethan looked at Jack.

“If that’s alright with you, daddy?” Jack smiled at the triplets.

“Yes, it most certainly is alright with me.”

“Is it alright with you too, mommy?” Irina could use the fresh air to get her mind off of things, but her main focus was on the triplets and not herself. She nodded and smiled.

“Of course it is.”

“Great. What should we play?”

“We should probably play cards.” Irina looked at Jack. “Jack, don’t you think that’ll be easier?”

Jack thought it would be alright to place a board game on the bed, so that Irina and the triplets could sit on both sides of him. But he also didn’t want to argue with Irina in front of the triplets. He nodded.

“Yeah, it’ll probably be easier with the cards. That way I won’t accidentally knock over some of the pieces on the board.” The triplets laughed, Jack chuckled, while Irina merely smiled a little.

“Okay. I’ll get the cards.” Ethan got up from his seat and got the cards from the table, while Irina and Caitie went to sit on the other side of Jack.

They played card for the rest of the afternoon, but also talked. At dinnertime Irina and the triplets went to the cafeteria to eat. Jack felt lonely eating by himself, but found comfort in knowing that the triplets were doing great with everything they’d been put through and with everything that had happened to them.

When Irina and the triplets came back to Jack’s room they continued playing cards and talking. Later in the evening they called home to Sydney and Nadia, and talked to everyone, who were staying at their houses.

After the last phone conversation ended Irina got her and the triplets’ bedroom ready for bed while the triplets said goodnight to Jack. When the triplets left Jack’s room, Irina came in to say goodnight to him a few seconds later.

“I just talked to the nurse, and they’ll be in here in a minute.”

“Okay. Thanks.” After a few seconds of silence Jack continued talking. “The triplets really seem to be doing fine.” Irina nodded.

“Yeah, they do.” She smiled a little. “Our little troopers.” Jack smiled too.

“Yeah they certainly are.”

He wanted to say that he was glad they hadn’t been hurt by Cuvee and hadn’t had much contact with him, but he thought that the mention of Cuvee might upset Irina, and he didn’t want to do that. He had managed to not let the conversation in the afternoon be much about Cuvee, and was happy about that, and happy that the triplets hadn’t asked more about him than they did. He didn’t have time to think more about what to add as Irina started talking again.

“And since they’re doing so fine now, I’m sure that, that won’t change. They might start to feel a bit uncomfortable when they have to go back to school, but that’s a long time away, so they don’t need to think about that at the moment.” Jack nodded.

“Yeah, I think you’re right.”

The door opened and three nurses stepped in.

“Oh Mrs. Bristow, we didn’t know you were still in here. If you’re not done yet, we can leave and come back in a couple of minutes.” Irina shook her head.

“No, we’re done.” She turned to look at Jack. “Right, Jack?” He wanted her to stay longer just so that he could be with her. But he thought that she might be uncomfortable, so he decided not to ask her to stay. He nodded.

“Yeah, sure.” Irina smiled a little at him.

“Goodnight.”

“Goodnight.”

Irina left his room and the nurses helped Jack lay down. After they left Jack went to sleep feeling lonely, but also happy that the triplet were doing fine.

TBC
 
Oh it is so heartbreaking to see them this way :( Not touching each other will make everything worse..I want Jack to get well very soon, and be healthy so that Irina can touch him again.
 
Oh it is so heartbreaking to see them this way :(
Yes, it really is heartbreaking.
Not touching each other will make everything worse..
Yes, it would definitely be best if they'd start to touch each other and talk to each other, and not touching will make things worse.
I want Jack to get well very soon, and be healthy so that Irina can touch him again.
Jack's getting better with each passing day, and although Irina can see that, she still thinks that touching him could be damaging - but it's all in her head. She can't even get passed it even though she sees the triplets touching Jack. They'll eventually get back to normal, but it's going to take a long time before that happens - a really long time.

Thank you Sydney Derevko Bristow. :smiley:
 
I think that Irina and Jack need to have a serious talk. haha I know that it is really hard form them right now, but hopefully they will talk about it, especially since they know that the kids are going to be okay.

texasalias
 
I think that Irina and Jack need to have a serious talk. haha
They definitely need to have that.
I know that it is really hard form them right now, but hopefully they will talk about it, especially since they know that the kids are going to be okay.

texasalias
Yes, it is hard to talk about, but mostly for Irina. However, they will talk about what happened eventually, though that won't happen for a long time.

Thank you texasalias. :smiley:
 
Update, update, update please :excl:
I can't update when I don't have a chapter to post. :D I've been a bit busy lately. I've also watched soccer matches, because the European Championship is on at the moment, and also other stuff have gotten in the way of my writing. I have written a little bit on the next chapter, but not very much. I can't promise you when the next update will be, but I'll work on it. Thank you. :smiley:
 
No need to really go into detail of why I haven't updated in so long. Same old story really - I've been stuck, not had the energy, had other things to do, figuring out what to do with my life, been on vacation - blah blah blah. But the board has also been down for me for quite a while. However, the important thing is that the next update is here. It's not much and it's not really exciting, but it's a new chapter.

Thank you all for reading and commenting. It means a lot to me. Hope you enjoy the chapter. Happy reading.

Chapter 31
The next day started out as the previous. Irina and the triplets came to Jack’s room to say good morning and then went to the cafeteria to eat. His food came to his room shortly after they left, and when they were done eating in the cafeteria, they came to his room to tell him they were going out and would be back some time in the afternoon.

Jack started reading a book after Irina and the triplets left, and he continued reading until his lunch came.

When his lunch tray had been taken away the doctor came in as the nurse left.

“Hello Mr. Bristow.”

“Hi doctor.”

“How are you feeling today?”

“I feel better every day.”

“That’s good to hear. I’m here to give you your daily examination.”

“Do your business.” The doctor chuckled a little and started his examination.

When the doctor was done examining Jack, he looked at him.

“Everything looks really good. How do you feel about getting out of bed today and trying to walk a bit around?” Jack looked at the doctor a little surprised.

“Seriously?”

“It’s been six days since you woke up and you’re making a great and speedy recovery. You’re progressing every single day, so I see no reason why you shouldn’t get out of bed and start walking around. But with your medical record I know that you’re no stranger to sever injuries, so I’m sure your body have learned to heal faster over the years, and that, that’s the reason why you’re doing so good with every passing day.”

“Yeah, my body’s been put through a bit of this and a bit of that over the years.”

“But you’re also very healthy and very fit, so that also helps with your recovery too.” Jack nodded. “So, are you ready to walk around?”

“Yes, absolutely.”

“Good. I’ll just get a couple of nurses to help me.”

“I’ll be here.” Both Jack and the doctor laughed a little, and a few minutes later the doctor returned with two nurses and a pair of crutches, which the doctor put on a nearby chair.

“Okay, what we’re going to do is just rub your legs a little to get the circulation going and then after gently take hold of your legs and swing them over the side of the bed. If you at any moment start to feel uncomfortable or if you’re in too much pain, let us know and we’ll stop. Alright?”

“Yes.”

“Good. Here we go.” He removed the covers and he along with one of the nurses rubbed Jack’s legs. A few seconds later they stopped. “That should do it.” He looked at Jack. “Are you ready?”

“Ready as I’ll ever be.”

The nurses stood on each side of the bed and took hold of Jack underneath his arms. The doctor took hold of Jack’s legs, and together they helped him sit with his legs over the bed. Jack winced a little in pain.

“Are you alright Mr. Bristow?”

“Yes, I’m fine.”

“Okay, let me just check your stitches.” The doctor examined the stitches and looked at Jack. “Everything is fine. Are you ready to go on?”

“Yes.”

“Good.” The nurse, who had been on the opposite side of the doctor and the other nurse, came around the bed and stood on the same side as them. “We’ll help you to stand up and then give you the crutches. The reason why we’re given you crutches instead of a walker is that it’s better for you to walk upright rather than being hunched over the walker.”

“Okay.”

“Okay here we go.”

The nurses took hold of Jack under his arms again while the doctor stood in front of him ready to hold him steady if that would be the case. The minute Jack stood upright and the doctor saw that he was fine, he handed Jack the crutches. The nurses kept a hold of him and let him get adjusted to them.

The doctor looked at him, and Jack nodded.

“I’m good.”

“Okay. We’ll let go of you and give you some room, so that you can take a few steps whenever you’re ready.” Jack nodded and the doctor and nurses stepped away from him.

Jack took a couple of breaths before taking his first step. He stood still for a few seconds after that but then proceeded to take a few more steps and then a few more steps. He looked at the doctor when he ended up in front of him.

“How far am I allowed to walk?” The doctor smiled.

“Well, you seem to be doing very well, so I would say that it’s up to you.”

“In that case I’d like to get out of the room and walk around in the halls.”

“If you feel you’re up to it, then by all means do it. But don’t overdue it. If you at any moment feel it’s too much, you should stop walking.” Jack nodded.

“I will.”

“Good. The nurses will go with you and make sure that you’re alright. That way if you start to feel pain they’ll be right by your side to help.” Jack nodded again.

“That’s fine.” The doctor nodded and smiled.

“Have fun walking. I’ll come and find you later to see how you are.”

“Okay.” The doctor opened the door and let Jack walk out first. The nurses followed him and then the doctor left the room.

A couple of hours later Irina and the triplets came back and walked into Jack’s room. They were surprised to see he wasn’t there and Irina immediately got alarmed. Maddie turned around and looked at her mother.

“Where’s daddy?” Irina was still staring at the empty bed.

“I don’t know sweetheart, I don’t know.” She looked at the triplets. “Would you be alright here while I go and find out where daddy is?” They nodded and smiled.

“Sure mommy.” She smiled back.

“Okay. I’ll hurry.” Caitie smiled.

“Take your time.” Irina smiled at them again before leaving the room.

When Irina was out in the hall she spotted one of the nurses sitting at the desk and walked up to her.

“Excuse me, but do you know where my husband is?” The nurse smiled at her.

“He’s out walking around.” Irina looked at the nurse incredulously.

“He’s what?”

“The doctor examined your husband and thought that your husband was well enough to try walking. Your husband agreed.” Irina got a little angry.

“My husband only woke up from his coma six days ago. He can’t possibly be well enough to walk around so soon. He shouldn’t be pushed into doing something he’s not ready to do.”

“Mrs. Bristow, I understand your concern, bu..” Irina got angrier and cut the nurse off.

“Oh you understand? Do you really? Has your husband been shot in the chest and nearly died?” Irina looked at the nurse for a few seconds. “Well, has he?” The nurse smiled politely.

“No, Mrs. Bristow.”

“Then you can’t possibly understand.”

“No, I realize I can’t. But the doctor knows what’s best for your husband, and he decided that the best thing for your husband was to walk around if your husband was up for it, which he was.”

“The doctor also thought that my husband was going to die. He’s a quack and knows nothing.” The nurse nodded.

“Yes, the doctor was proven wrong and everyone is only happy about that. But that also only shows how strong your husband is. He’s already improved a lot in the days he’s been awake, and I’m sure your husband would’ve told the doctor if he wasn’t up for walking around.”

“Don’t be so sure of that.”

“Of course you know your husband best, but with what he went through, I’m sure he wouldn’t endanger his health.” The nurse waited to see if Irina would respond, but when she didn’t, see continued. “Two nurses have been by your husband’s side at all times in case he needed help. But he’s managed just fine walking around. He’s used crutches the entire time, and has also rested from time to time.”

“Two nurses have been by his side?” The nurse nodded.

“Yes.”

Irina was disappointed that Jack hadn’t waited to walk around until she and the triplets came back. She wanted to have gone with him. She was jealous at the same time that two nurses had been by his side all that time. Irina sighed and spoke calmly to the nurse.

“Could you find my husband and tell him that we’re back and waiting in his room?” The nurse smiled.

“Yes, certainly.” Irina smiled back a little.

“Thank you.”

“Don’t mention it.” Irina nodded and went back to Jack’s room.

“Did you find daddy?” She smiled at them.

“Daddy’s apparently doing so good that the doctor thought he was strong enough to walk around. I didn’t find him but told one of the nurses to find him and tell him we’re back. He should be here soon.”

“That’s great that daddy’s walking.”

“Hopefully that means we can all go home soon.”

“We’ll see. There’s still a long way from walking a bit around to being released from the hospital.”

“But it’s still a good sign that he’s already out of bed and walking.” Irina smiled at her son.

“Yes, it is.”

A short while later Jack entered the room with the two nurses. He smiled at everyone. The triplets smiled widely at him, but Irina only gave him a weak smile.

“Hi guys.”

“Hi daddy.”

“It’s great that you’re out of bed and that you’re walking.”

“It certainly feels great. How was your day?”

“It was very nice.”

“I can’t wait to hear about it.”

“Jack maybe you should rest. You’ve been walking around for a long time, so you need to get back into bed and rest.” One of the nurses smiled at Irina.

“Actually Mr. Bristow has been doing very well and has incredible strength and stamina. He’s also rested plenty, so he doesn’t need to be in bed to rest. He can sit down if he wants to.”

The nurse and everyone else looked at Jack and smiled with the exception of Irina. Irina, on the other hand, gave the nurse her death glare, but quickly changed her facial expression when the nurse looked back at Irina. She nodded.

“I see.”

“Well in that case I’d like to sit down on one of the couches.” The nurse nodded.

“That sounds like a good idea. We’ll help you sit down.”

Jack walked towards the couches followed by the nurses. He gave one of the crutches to one of the nurses and while still holding on to the other crutch the nurses helped him to sit down. He looked at them and smiled a little.

“Thank you.”

“No problem Mr. Bristow. Just let us know when you want to get up again and we’ll come and help you.”

“I will.” The nurse with the crutch took the other crutch from Jack and put them against the wall. The nurses then left and the triplets sat down on the couches too. Maddie sat next to Jack while Caitie and Ethan sat down on the other couch opposite them. Jack smiled at them. “So, tell me about your day.”

As the triplets started talking about their day Irina looked at Jack still worried that he was overdoing things, but sat down on the same couch as Caitie and Ethan and joined the conversation.

Two hours later Irina looked at her watch, and then at the triplets.

“Well, I don’t know about you three, but I’m starting to get hungry.” She looked at Jack. “I’m sure you’re getting hungry too.”

“Yeah, now that you mention it.”

“That settles it then. We’ll head off to the cafeteria now and let one of the nurses know that you’re ready for your dinner.”

“Actually, I thought I could go with you. Since I’ve already been up and walking I see no point in why I couldn’t go with you to the cafeteria.”

“Jack, I don’t think that’s a good idea. Yes, you’ve been up and walking, but that’s also why you should rest. You shouldn’t overdue it.”

“I’m not.”

“Still Jack, I think you should stay here.”

“Well, I don’t.” He was getting a little annoyed with Irina. “I’m perfectly aware of how much my body can handle, and I know it won’t be a problem to go to the cafeteria and have dinner sitting up at a table.” She started to get a little annoyed with him too.

“You shouldn’t go anywhere without talking to the doctor first.”

“Then get the doctor.” Jack noticed the triplets looking from one parent to the other. Irina noticed too, and Jack spoke calmer. “Please.” Irina nodded.

“Okay.” Irina got up and left the room while Jack smiled at the triplets and they continued talking until Irina got back a minute later. “The doctor will be here shortly.” Jack nodded and they continued talking until the doctor arrived a few minutes later.

“Hello everyone. I heard you needed to talk to me, Mr. Bristow.”

“Yes. I just wanted to know if it’ll be alright if I had dinner in the cafeteria with my family?”

“Yes, if you think you’re up for it, I see no problem with that.” Jack nodded.

“I feel just fine, so I doubt I’ll have any problems.” The doctor smiled.

“That’s good to hear. Just make sure to get help if you feel any discomfort.”

“I will.”

“I’ll get a couple of nurses to help you, and have them, walk with you to the cafeteria.” Jack nodded and the doctor left.

A few minutes later three nurses entered the room. They gave Jack one of the crutches to hold on to while at the same time two nurses helped him up by holding onto an arm of his each. The third nurse stood in front of him to help in case he should fall over. When he was steady on his feet she went to get the other crutch and handed it to him.

“Are you in any pain, Mr. Bristow?”

“No, it went better getting up this time.”

“That’s good.”

“Are you ready to leave then?”

“Yes.”

“Okay. If the rest of you are ready to leave too, we can go to the cafeteria.” Irina nodded slightly at the nurse.

“Yes, we’re ready to leave.” The nurse smiled at Irina and the triplets and then looked at Jack.

“After you, Mr. Bristow.”

The walk to the cafeteria went just fine, though Irina was constantly worried about Jack. The triplets on the other hand complimented him on his recovery and how well he was doing. Dinner was a bit of a quiet affair, though the triplets talked a lot and Jack and Irina took part in the conversation. After dinner Jack and Irina had a cup of coffee and then all five of them walked around the halls for a little while much to Irina’s concern that Jack was overdoing it. Though she didn’t let her concerns be heard.

When they got back to Jack’s room they called home. They called Sydney’s house first and then Nadia’s. After hanging up with Nadia it was time for the triplets to go to bed, and Irina went to make the waiting room ready for sleep while the triplets said goodnight to Jack. When the triplets left the room Irina entered with three nurses. She said a quick goodnight to him and left the room before he even had a chance to get into bed.

The nurses helped him get ready for bed and then helped him lie down. When they left and turned off the lights Jack was happy about his own progress, but sad about his situation with Irina. And once again his thoughts went to Kashmir and the horror they went through.

A couple of hours later at APO, Sydney, Nadia, Vaughn, Eric, Dixon, Kendall, Marshall, Carrie, Katya, and Rachel were all sitting in the meeting room. Sydney, Nadia, Vaughn, Eric, Carrie, Katya, and Rachel had all agreed to come to APO for a little while to do some work.

Sydney’s phone rang and she looked at the number. Not recognizing it she answered it anyway.

“Hello?”

“Hello Sydney, it’s Julian. I promise you, I’ll forget all about your number, but I just wanted to call and hear how things went.”

“Hang on, Sark. I’m just going to put you on speakers, so that everyone else can listen.” Everyone looked surprised at Sydney by the mention of Sark’s name.

“It’s Sark?” Sydney nodded. “What does he want?”

“He just wants to know if everything went alright.” Sydney turned to look at Marshall. “Marshall, could you hook my phone up to the speakers?”

“Sure Syd.” He took her phone and a few moments later he nodded. “Go ahead.”

“Sark, you’re on speakers now.”

“Hello. As I told Sydney, I won’t be bothering any of you again, but I just wanted to check in and hear how everything went.” When there was no reaction from anyone, Sark went on. “So how did everything go? Did you get Jack, Irina, and the triplets out safely? Did you get Sloane and Cuvee?”

Everyone looked around at each other to see who should answer Sark. Finally Dixon decided to answer him.

“We rescued the triplets without any problems, but Sloane apparently noticed us coming and got away with a few guards. Marshall did shoot him in the same knee where he was injured in Mongolia, so hopefully that’ll cause him problems in the future.” They heard Sark sigh on the other end.

“I’m sorry you weren’t able to get Sloane. But good for Marshall that he shot him. I’m very happy to hear that. And I’m also very happy to hear that the triplets got out alright. But what about Jack, Irina, and Cuvee?” Dixon continued.

“We got Cuvee. Or rather Jack got Cuvee. Cuvee was going to rape Irina and had set everything up and was ready. But luckily Jack was able to get free from his restrains. Unfortunately he wasn’t strong enough to fight off Cuvee and Cuvee shot Jack in the chest.”

“What? Is Jack alright? I mean, I know you said Jack got Cuvee, but he was shot.”

“Cuvee didn’t kill Jack, and while Cuvee was busy getting ready to hurt Irina, Jack had enough strength to get Cuvee’s gun that was lying on the floor. He killed Cuvee before he could hurt Irina.” Sark sighed in relief.

“I’m so happy to hear that. So Jack and Irina are alright now?”

“Yes, they’re alright, though we thought we were going to lose Jack at one point. Jack is also still in the hospital and he’ll be staying there for a little while yet, though he’s making excellent progress every day.”

“That’s really great news. Thank you for telling me. And once again I’m sorry for all the pain I’ve caused all of you. Well, I’ll let you be and not bother you again. I really only wanted to know if everything turned out alright.”

“Sark, wait a minute.”

“Yes?”

“Your help in us getting to Jack, Irina, and the triplets has been passed on to our superiors. You’re still on the most wanted list, but have been placed further down the list. Because of your help we won’t be hunting for you anymore provided that you don’t fall back into your hold habits.”

There was silence at the other end of the line, and when Sark spoke again it was clear to everyone that he was clearly touched.

“You have no idea what this means to me. Thank you. Thank you so much. I definitely don’t deserve it, but it means more to me than you’ll ever know. And you can be sure that I’ll never turn back to my hold ways.”

“That’s good to hear. You’re most likely still wanted in a bunch of other countries around the world, so you should still watch your back. And you should also watch out for Sloane.”

“I will. Thank you again. Thank you.” When no one said anything else, Sark thought it was best to finish the conversation. “I should hang up and let you get back to whatever you were doing. Take care. Bye.”

“Bye Sark.”

When Sark hung up the phone they all looked around each other silently appreciative that Sark had bothered calling to ask how things had turned out. After staying silent for a few moments they returned to work.

The next morning in India the triplets walked into Jack’s room as usual.

“Good morning, daddy.” He smiled at the sound of their voices.

“Good morning, sweethearts.”

“How are you feeling?”

“I feel pretty good. Better than yesterday.”

“That’s great, daddy.”

“Yeah, I think so too. Where’s mommy?”

“She’s just tidying up in the waiting room. She’ll be here soon.”
“Okay. Could one of you get the nurses?”

“Sure, daddy. I’ll do it.” Maddie left and the other three talked until Maddie returned with three nurses.

“Good morning everyone. What can we do for you Mr. Bristow?”

“I’d like to sit up.” The nurses nodded and walked over to him.

“Any discomfort during the night?”

“No. I’m sore, but that’s it. I actually feel pretty good.”

“That’s good. Well, if you’re feeling that good what do you say, to joining your family for breakfast in the cafeteria?”

The triplets smiled excited to hear that, and Jack was happy about it too. He nodded.

“I think we would all like that.”

“Okay then. Let’s help you out of bed and get you a little cleaned up in the bathroom.”

They got him out of bed and gave him the crutches, so that he could walk to the bathroom in his room on his own.

While Jack was in the bathroom the triplets sat on his bed, and a minute after Jack had gone to the bathroom, Irina walked into the room. She was surprised to see that Jack was not in bed at this early hour.

“Where’s daddy?”

“He’s in the bathroom.”

“The nurses are helping him get ready, so that he can come to the cafeteria and have breakfast with us.”

Irina stared a little at the triplets and then turned her eyes towards the bathroom door and stared at that. Her first thought was that she didn’t like that Jack was up so early or up at all as she thought that he was overdoing it.

Her second thought was that she didn’t like that he was in the bathroom with three nurses. One would’ve been bad enough, but three were much worse. She knew that she couldn’t compare them to Blondie and the Bimbos. These nurses probably didn’t have a thing for Jack, but she didn’t like other women touching him. But seeing as he was not fully recovered she didn’t like anyone touching him at all, thinking it could make his recovery slower.

She stopped staring at the door when it opened. Jack walked out first and when she saw him she smiled a little.

“Morning.” He smiled back the same way.

“Morning.”

“I hear you’re coming with us to have breakfast.”

“That’s right.”

“Do you really think that’s a good idea? It’s early in the day and I don’t think you should be walking around this soon.”

He started to get a little irritated, not wanting to have this discussion again. But after seeing the expression on the triplets’ faces yesterday he decided to remain calm.

“Yes, I think it is a good idea. I feel well enough to do it and I’m not tired from yesterday or in any real pain. I walked around plenty yesterday and also sat up eating at a table, so I can do that today too.”

“You should get the doctor’s opinion first.”

“I got the doctor’s opinion yesterday, and since I’m feeling better and have no complications from yesterday, I see no reason why I shouldn’t be able to go to the cafeteria without the doctor’s opinion. The nurses said it would be alright.” The nurses nodded.

“Mrs. Bristow, it would really be alright for him to go with you to the cafeteria.” Irina looked at them.

“I would just really like to get the doctor’s opinion on this.”

“We can understand that, but we assure you that we’re more than qualified to determine that it’s alright for Mr. Bristow to join you in the cafeteria. The doctor would tell you the same thing.”

Irina didn’t feel like arguing with the nurses in front of the triplets. She didn’t want to argue with Jack either thinking that it wouldn’t be good for his recovery. She’d also seen the look the triplets had given her and Jack yesterday, which was also the reason she didn’t want to argue with him.

“Fine.”

“We’ll go with you to the cafeteria and make sure Mr. Bristow is alright and then get him settled.” Irina nodded.

“Good.”

Jack looked at Irina and then at the triplets. He smiled at them.

“Let’s go eat.”

The walk to the cafeteria went well and so did breakfast. When they were done eating Irina looked around at the triplets.

“So, what do the three of you want to do today?” They looked at each other and then Ethan looked at his mother.

“We want to stay here and spend the day with daddy. Now that he can sit at a table, we can play a board game.” Caitie looked at Jack.

“Of course if you’re up for it, daddy?” He smiled at her.

“I most certainly am.” He smiled at Ethan and Maddie too, who smiled back at him, but when he looked at Irina he could tell she didn’t like the idea.

“Jack, I don’t think it’s a good idea. You need to rest.” He shook his head slightly.

“No, what I need is to get my body back to normal. Sitting up and walking around the halls will help with that.”

“But Ja..”

“You can be there when the doctor examines me if you’d like, and he’ll tell you the exact same thing that I just did.”

“You walked around a lot yesterday and also sat up a lot too. You need to take it easy.”

“I am taking it easy.” Jack could feel his irritation starting to build, but calmed down when he looked at the triplets. He took a deep breath. “We will play board games and cards at the table here and walk around. In between we’ll sit down on couches and relax. If I feel the need to lie down, I will.” Irina sighed, and nodded but didn’t like the idea.

“Very well.”

The day went as Jack had said it would. After breakfast he asked for the doctor, so that he could get his examination out of the way, and so that Irina could hear for herself that he was well enough to sit at the table and walk around. The day then went by with playing cards and board games, walking, and relaxing on couches watching movies.

They had lunch and dinner in the cafeteria too, and after playing a board game and taking a walk after dinner, they watched a movie and some TV before walking back to Jack’s room to call home.

When Irina walked out of Jack’s room to get the waiting room ready for sleep, three nurses walked in, to help Jack lie down. They left the room before Irina walked back in. As Irina walked back in the room she saw first Maddie kissing Jack goodnight followed by Ethan and Caitie. Irina bit her bottom lip hoping Jack wasn’t put through too much pressure. She walked further into the room as the triplets left and a few seconds of silence followed between her and Jack.

“It’s good to hear that things are going well at home. The grandkids seem to be doing very well.” Irina smiled a little at him.

“Yeah, they sound very happy.”

“It’s nice hearing from everyone else too.”

“Yes absolutely.” A few moments of silence followed. “Well, I should let you sleep.”

He wanted to tell her to stay, but didn’t want to push her into doing so. Instead he nodded.

“Okay.”

“Goodnight.”

“Goodnight.”

Irina turned off the lights and left his room. Jack sighed heavily and closed his eyes hoping that he would fall asleep quickly.

TBC
 
HURRAY! we're back,
Yeah, it's great. :smiley:
AND a new chapter! way to go for a monday!!! :smiley:
I'm glad to hear it. :smiley: The next chapter is written. I post my story on two other boards, so I continued to post there when this board was down. Don't know if I'm able to post the next chapter in a new post now that I'm posting a reply, but I'll probably be able to post the next chapter tomorrow.

Thank you !r!nab. :smiley:
 
Next chapter is here - hope you enjoy it. Thank you for reading and commenting - it means a lot. :smiley:

Chapter 32
The next day went much the same way as the previous day had gone. Jack had breakfast with Irina and the triplets in the cafeteria and after they played a board game. When Jack was examined by the doctor, Irina and the triplets went for a walk outside to get some fresh air.

When they came back from their walk, Jack met up with them and they walked around the halls for a little while before eating lunch in the cafeteria. Until dinnertime they spent the time playing cards, playing board games, watching TV and movies, and walking around.

After dinner they walked around and after the triplets colored, while Jack and Irina each read a book, and looked at the triplets’ drawings from time to time, commenting on how nice they looked.

When it was time for bed nothing changed from the previous night. The triplets said goodnight to Jack first, and after Irina said a quick goodnight while keeping her distance. He sighed when she left the room thinking that what happened in Kashmir was still too traumatizing for her.

The next morning after just finishing breakfast the doctor walked over to their table.

“Good morning, everyone.”

“Good morning, doctor.”

“How are you feeling today, Mr. Bristow?”

“I feel really good. I can feel that I get better day by day, and I’m not so sore anymore.”

“That’s really good to hear. Your examinations certainly also show that you’re healing very well.”

“Since I’m doing so well, I was wondering when I could go home?”

Irina was a bit afraid of hearing the doctor’s answer. She didn’t know if the doctor would discharge Jack sooner than what was good for him just because he was doing well so soon.

The doctor smiled at Jack.

“I can understand you’re anxious to get home, as you all must be. But I’d like to keep you here for a while longer. You still need to use the crutches for a while yet and you also need to be able to get up on your own. And I’d love it if you practically only use a cane when you leave here. Your wounds are healing nicely, but I also need for them to be a little more healed before I’m discharging you.” Jack nodded and Irina felt relieved.

“Any idea how long I’ll be here?”

“Hopefully less than a week. Around half a week I’d assume with the progress you’ve been making.” Jack stared a little at the doctor.

“Half a week?” The doctor nodded at Jack. “You made it sound like I’d be here for weeks.” The doctor let out a laugh.

“Sorry about that. But no, if you continue to recover as well as you’ve done so far, then I’m discharging you in a couple of days. Of course as we’ve talked about, you’ll have to stay at a hospital for a little while when you get back. Just so they can monitor your recovery for a little while and so that you can walk around without the use of crutches.” Jack smiled and so did the triplets.

“That’s really great news, daddy.” Maddie got on her knees on her chair and leaned in and gave Jack a kiss on the cheek. He smiled at her.

“I think so too.” He looked around at Ethan and Caitie too, who smiled just as widely at him as Maddie did, but when he looked at Irina she only gave him a little smile. She nodded.

“Yes, Jack that’s great news.” His smile faded and he nodded.

He started to get worried that she was not looking forward to going home and get things back to normal. That being home where they were more together than they’d been here for most of the time he’d been awake would be too much intimacy too soon. To him it started to make sense with the way she’d been behaving. He shook the thought from his mind thinking he was probably imagining things. Going home would most likely be what she needed and what they needed. When she was home in her normal surroundings, she’d probably be more comfortable and open up. He didn’t have time to think more about it as the doctor started talking again.

“Mr. Bristow, if you’re not too busy I’d like to give you your examination now.” Jack shook his head.

“No, we might as well get it out of the way now.”

“Okay good. I’d also like to have you do some exercises and that might take a while. No more than an hour though. An hour and a half tops.” Jack looked around at Irina and the triplets. Irina nodded.

“We can go for a walk around town in the mean time.” She looked at the triplets. “Would you like to do that?” They all nodded.

“That way we can get a birthday present for uncle Kendall.” Irina smiled at Ethan.

“I think he’d like that.”

“We should probably still keep it a secret even though it’s his birthday today.” Irina nodded.

“Yeah, no point in spoiling the surprise.”

“Do you think it’ll be okay with Sydney and Nadia if we call him first?” The triplets looked between their parents and Jack and Irina smiled at them.

“Yes, I think they’ll be just fine with that.”

“Well, since we know what we’ll be doing, we might as well get going.”

“I’ll just get some nurses to help me.” The doctor left and Irina stood up. When she did so did the triplets. Irina looked at Jack.

“Where should we meet up with you when we get back?”

“What about here?” She nodded. “An hour and a half from now?”

He hoped she would agree to that. He didn’t feel like being alone for too long, but he also didn’t know if she’d stay out longer from the hospital now that she had the opportunity. He was relieved when she nodded.

“Sure.”

“Okay. Have a good time.”

“You too, daddy.” He smiled at Ethan and each of the triplets gave him a kiss on the cheek. Jack noticed that Irina looked away when they did that.

“Bye, daddy.”

“Bye, guys.”

Jack’s examination and exercises went well and after he sat by the table in the cafeteria reading a book while waiting for Irina and the triplets to return.

When they returned, they showed Jack what they had bought for Kendall, and they stayed at the table talking about their trip and Jack’s examination until lunchtime.

After lunch the day went by as the previous one, and in the evening they went back to Jack’s room to call Kendall.

“Kendall.”

“Hi uncle Kendall. Happy birthday.”

“Hi kids.” Kendall’s happiness of hearing the triplets was evident in his voice. “Thank you.”

“Hi Kendall. Happy birthday.”

“Happy birthday.”

“Thank you. How are you all doing?”

“We’re doing fine, and daddy’s doing better every day.”

“That’s great to hear, and it’s great for you, Jack.”

“Thanks Kendall.”

“Any idea when you can come home?”

“The doctor told me today that I’ll probably be discharged in a couple of days.”

“Jack, that’s great news.”

“Yeah, it is. Though, I’ll still have to spend some time in a hospital at home, as you know.”

“But still, it’s better being in a hospital at home rather than being in a hospital in another country.” Jack let out a small laugh.

“You’ve got a point.”

“How will you be celebrating your birthday, uncle Kendall? Are you going to have a party?” Kendall laughed a little at Maddie’s question.

“Well, I won’t be having a party at my place, because I’ll be working until late in the afternoon. But Sydney offered to invite everyone for dinner at her place so we could celebrate, and I took her up on her offer. Will, Rachel, and T.J. are also leaving tomorrow, so it’s also going to be a goodbye party for them.”

“That’s nice, uncle Kendall.”

“We bought you a present today.”

“You guys didn’t have to do that.”

“We wanted to.”

“Well, thank you. So? What did you get me?”

“We’re not telling you that.”

“No, you have to wait until you open it when we get home.” Kendall let out a laugh.

“Okay then. I’ll be looking forward to seeing what you got for me.”

They kept talking to Kendall for a while longer, and after hanging up they called Sydney and Nadia. When they were done with that, they went to bed and once again there was no difference between Jack and Irina.

At APO Kendall arrived for work at the same time as Dixon. An hour later Sydney, Nadia, Vaughn, Eric, Marshall, Carrie, Katya, and Rachel joined them. They all walked into the meeting room where Kendall and Dixon were sitting.

“Happy birthday, Kendall.”

Sydney, Nadia, Carrie, and Rachel walked over to him and gave him each a hug. He smiled at them.

“Thank you.” Katya looked at him.

“Well, it’s easy to see that you’re a year older.” He rolled his eyes at her and she smirked at him. “Happy birthday.”

“Thanks.” Vaughn and Eric walked up to him and handed him a present.

“Here. We bought you a little something extra.” Kendall looked at them a little puzzled but took the present.

“Why didn’t you wait until tonight to give me this?” They smiled.

“We just thought that now would be better.” He smiled back.

“Well, thank you.”

“Open it.” Kendall nodded and sat down while everyone else also took a seat around the table.

He opened the present, gaped a little when he saw what they’d gotten him, and then glared at Vaughn and Eric while he held up the book he’d been given.

“Sex for Dummies?” Sydney and Nadia gaped while everyone else laughed.

After a few seconds of laughing Vaughn and Eric finally got their laughter under control to answer him.

“Don’t pay too much attention to the title. It’s not like we think you’re a dummy or anything like that.” Eric nodded agreeing with Vaughn.

“No, not at all. We just thought that you could use a little help in the love department.” Kendall still glared at them.

“And what makes you think I need any help in that department?”

“Oh come on. You haven’t had a date since Irina’s birthday.”

“At least not that we know of.”

“Right. So, we just figured you could use a little help.”

“Well, I don’t need any help, thank you very much. And for your information my date had no complaints at all.” Both Vaughn and Eric leaned forward in their chairs.

“That sounds intriguing. Care to share?”

“Absolutely not. Now if you’ve had your fun, can we get back to work?”

“Sure.”

“Thank you.”

“Just one more thing.” Kendall groaned.

“What?”

“Are you still seeing the woman you were on a date with on Irina’s birthday? And if you are, is she coming tonight?” Kendall glared even more at Eric.

“I’m not going to answer your first question, because it’s none of your business. And it’s a no to your second question.”

“Interesting. Now from the way you answered Eric’s last question are we to assume that you’re still seeing the woman?” Kendall glared at Vaughn.

“Like I said, it’s none of your business. Now get back to work.” Both Vaughn and Eric laughed.

“Fine, fine. We’ll get back to work.”

“Good.” Kendall got up from his seat, took the book with him and left the meeting room leaving most of the others laughing.

Late in the afternoon Kendall showed up at Sydney and Vaughn’s house for dinner. Sergei opened the door with all of the kids with the exception of Nicholas, David, and T.J.

“Hi Kendall. Happy birthday.” Kendall received a hug from Sergei.

“Thanks.”

“HAPPY BIRTHDAY, UNCLE KENDALL.” Kendall laughed at all the kids simultaneously wishing him a happy birthday.

“Thank you guys.” All the kids then hugged him all at the same time, and after he got individual hugs from everyone. Sergei looked at Kendall.

“Everyone is in the living room.” Kendall nodded and followed him and all the kids in there.

Dinner went well and so did the rest of the evening. They talked and had fun and to Kendall’s great surprise Katya didn’t throw any remarks at him and hadn’t thrown any remarks at him since the one she threw at him at the office.

Later in the evening Isabelle, Sarah, Nicholas, and T.J. had been put to bed, while the rest of the kids had fallen asleep as well with the exception of Robin and Stephen. The rest of the kids were lying down in another room while Stephen and Robin were watching TV in a different room.

The party was about to break up and Kendall went to the kitchen with some of the mugs. He found Katya drinking a glass of water. When he put the mugs down he looked at her.

“You’ve been really quiet tonight. Actually, you’ve been quiet all day since this morning at the office.” She looked at him and spoke calmly.

“Haven’t I a right to be?” He nodded.

“Yes of course. But usually you throw remarks at me, and you haven’t done that since that one you threw at me this morning at the office. Is it part of my birthday present that you haven’t thrown any remarks at me other than that one?” He had a grin on his face, but she remained neutral.

“No, not really.”

“Then why haven’t you thrown remarks at me?”

“I haven’t felt like it.” He looked at her concerned.

“Katya, are you alright?” She rolled her eyes annoyed by his question.

“Yes, I’m perfectly fine.” He rolled his eyes frustrated by her answer.

“Well, excuse me for asking. It’s unusual for you not to throw remarks at me, so I was just worried that there was something wrong with you.” She gave him an angry look.

“There’s no need for you to worry about me. I’m fine.” She sighed. “I’m going to check to see if Sergei is ready to leave.” She walked passed him.

“Thank you for my present.” She stopped. He’d spoken calmly and she turned around. “I really like the shirt. I love the material and the color is great. And the book is by one of my favorite authors, so I know I’m going to love that. It’s very considerate of you to give me such a present. Thank you.” He smiled at her but she just shrugged.

“No, big deal. You needed a present, so I bought one.” He was a little surprised by her reaction.

“But still you put a lot of thought into that present and I really appreciate that.” She rolled her eyes and shook her head.

“Whatever.” He gaped a little and she turned around. “I’m going to find Sergei now. Enjoy the rest of your birthday.” With that she left the kitchen. Kendall shook his.

“Yeah, thanks.”

“Thanks for what?” He turned and saw Sydney walking into the kitchen. He shook his head.

“Nothing, I was just talking to Katya.”

“Did you fight?” He shook his head.

“No, we didn’t, but I was being nice and she didn’t really care about that.”

“Well, at least she hasn’t thrown any remarks at you all evening. That’s always something.” He smiled at her.

“Yeah that’s always something.” He walked over to her and hugged her. “Thank you for a very nice birthday.”

“It was my pleasure.” They smiled at each other.

“I should be getting home. It’s getting late.”

“Everyone else is out in the hall waiting to leave too.” He nodded and together they went out into the hall.

Out in the hall Kendall once again thanked everyone for the presents he’d received and said goodbye to everyone, giving each of them a hug with the exception of Katya and Chase. Kendall knew that Chase had apologized and that, that no doubt would lead to a better relationship between her and Irina and between her and everyone else, but he still didn’t think that she was on hugging terms with anyone, and he didn’t feel comfortable giving her a hug yet.

Katya was already ready to leave and was standing by the door. Though they weren’t on hugging terms either and never even shook hands, he thought it was best to leave her alone given her behavior in the kitchen. Instead he concentrated on the others and gave Rachel a hug, who was next in line.

“I hope you had a nice birthday.”

“I certainly had. It’s too bad you have to go back home, but I guess that was inevitable.” She smiled at him.

“Yes, nothing we can do about that. Will has to get back to work. He’s done all the research he can here for his next story, but he’s needed back at the office. And since Jack, Irina, and the triplets are alright there’s really nothing more for me to do here.”

“You also have T.J.’s first birthday coming up, so I’m sure you want to be home to celebrate that and have your families there.”

“Yeah, we’d like that, though we consider you all family too. But I think we’ll be back again as soon as we can to visit Jack, Irina, and the triplets.”

“They’ll certainly like that. Take care and get home safely.”

“We will. You take care too.” They smiled at each other and Kendall moved on to say goodbye to Will. They hugged.

“Bye Will. It was good having you here.”

“I’m glad I could be here. Thank you for the present for T.J.”

“Don’t mention it. Get back home safely.”

“We’ll make sure of it. Talk to you soon.”

“Absolutely. Bye Will.”

“Bye.”

When Kendall had said his goodbyes, he went to the living room and picked up his present and went back out into the hall and left at the same time as everyone else.

An hour later in India Jack, Irina, and the triplets were sitting in the cafeteria having just finished lunch when the doctor walked over to their table.

“Hello everyone.”

“Hello doctor.”

“How are you feeling today, Mr. Bristow? Better than yesterday?” Jack nodded.

“Yes, I am.”

“From what the nurses told me, you still need their help getting out of bed and to sit down.”

“Yes, though I can definitely feel I get stronger and I think I should be able to get up on my own soon.”

“That’s good to hear and it’s actually what I came to talk to you about. I thought that you could practice getting in and out of bed on your own, and sitting down in a chair on your own and getting up again.” Jack was happy, but Irina got worried.

“I’d like to do that.” Irina looked at the doctor.

“Are you sure that’s such a good idea? He’s only been out of bed for a little while, and I don’t think he’s ready to try getting in and out of bed on his own or sitting down in a chair and getting up again.”

Jack was irritated by Irina’s question and wanted to say something, but also didn’t want to say anything in front of the triplets. He was also irritated that she was addressing the doctor and not him. The doctor smiled at her.

“Yes, I’m absolutely sure it’s a good idea. It would be best if Mr. Bristow was able to get in and out of bed on his own as well as sitting down in a chair and getting up on his own before being discharged.”

“He only got out of bed a few days ago. It’s too soon for him to try to do this on his own.”

“Mrs. Bristow, I assure you it’s not. If it gets to be too much for Mr. Bristow, we’ll stop. You can be sure that I won’t make him overdue it, and Mr. Bristow will tell me if he needs to rest.”

“Yes, I will.” Irina looked at Jack and could hear that he was slightly agitated. Knowing she couldn’t stop Jack, she reluctantly nodded.

“Okay.”

“It might take a while depending on how much Mr. Bristow can handle. You’re welcome to join us, if you’d like?”

She would always want to be by Jack’s side no matter what, but Irina knew she wouldn’t be able to stand to see Jack in pain, and she knew that he’d at least be in a little pain. She also knew that she wouldn’t be able to just sit still somewhere around the hospital waiting for the exercises to be over with. She knew she’d be worrying sick about Jack no matter where she was, but she figured that getting out of the hospital for a while might help a little. She looked at the triplets.

“How about the four of us go out while daddy does his exercises?”

Jack was disappointed that she didn’t want to stay with him, which only made him believe even more that she was still too traumatized about Kashmir.

The triplets looked at each other and then Caitie looked at Jack.

“Would that be alright with you, daddy?” Even though he would’ve liked them to stay, he wasn’t going to force Irina to do so, if she didn’t want to. Instead he gave Caitie a reassuring smile.

“Of course, sweetheart. There’s nothing for you to do other than watch me do my exercises, and that might be a bit boring for you. Besides, I’m a big boy, so I’ll be alright.” He looked at Ethan and Maddie and gave them a reassuring smile too. Ethan looked at Irina.

“Sure mommy, we can go out.”

“Well, since everyone is onboard with that, we might as well get going now.” The triplets nodded and Maddie looked at Jack.

“Will you call us when you’re done with your exercises, so that we can get back to you?” He smiled at her.

“Yes, sweetheart.” The triplets smiled at him and got up from their seats when Irina got up from hers. She looked at him.

“Don’t overdue it, Jack.”

“I won’t.” She could hear that he was slightly agitated again, and nodded. “Have fun.”

“We will.”

The triplets each gave him a kiss before they and Irina left. Jack looked at the doctor.

“Let’s get started on those exercises.”

Jack’s exercises had gone alright. He’d had trouble from time to time and had rested and was sure that he’d probably still need help getting up and down from sitting down and help in getting to bed for the remainder of the day. But overall he was making progress and both he and the doctor were happy about that.

He’d done exercises for two hours and had called Irina to let her and the triplets know he was done. She’d told him they were in the middle of getting an ice cream, and that they’d return, when they’d eaten it. He told her, he’d be waiting in the living area, and that’s where they found him reading a book when they returned.

The triplets walked up to him and gave him each a kiss.

“Hi daddy. How did your exercises go?” He smiled at them.

“They went fine.”

“Did you have any trouble?” He looked at Maddie and nodded.

“A little from time to time, but I’m making progress. I’ll need help for the rest of the day still because my body needs to rest, but I’m making progress.”

“That’s great, daddy.”

“Yeah, I think so too. How was your time out?”

“It was very nice.”

“We went to the playground. It was fun.” Jack laughed a little.

“Yeah, I can imagine. How was the ice cream?”

“Delicious. Ice cream is always delicious, daddy.” He laughed more at that remark.

“Right. I guess I really didn’t need to ask about that. So what do you want to do now?” He looked at Irina.

“Since you had trouble with your exercises it would be best if you rested in your bed for a while.” Jack got agitated again, but took a deep breath to calm himself before answering Irina.

“No, I don’t need to rest. I’ve rested plenty in between doing the exercises, so I don’t need to rest now. And like I’ve just said, I’ll also be getting help getting up and sitting down for the rest of the day as well as getting help in getting to bed.”

“But Jack, you need to rest.” She shook her head. “I’m getting a couple of nurses.”

“I said no.” His voice was now agitated and a little louder. He also gave her a look that made no room for arguments.

She looked at him and they just looked at each other for a few seconds without anyone saying anything.

The triplets looked at each other and then looked from one parent to another feeling a little nervous about the situation. Finally Ethan broke the silence.

“Can we watch a movie?” Jack gave Irina one last look indicating he meant business, and then turned to his son smiling at him.

“Of course, sweetheart.” He then looked at Irina again and spoke calmer, but his facial expression remained the same a little. “Could you put one on?” She nodded after a few seconds.

“Of course.”

The spent the rest of the day mainly watching TV, movies, and the triplets also colored without Jack and Irina saying much to each other. The triplets did most of the talking and talked eagerly about their day, and didn’t pay more attention to what had happened between their parents when they’d gotten home from their time out.

When bedtime came around, the triplets said goodnight to Jack first while Irina got the waiting room ready. By the time she went to say goodnight to him he was already in bed, ready to sleep. They said a brief goodnight to each other, and when Irina left Jack sighed heavily letting go of his frustrations.

The following day went much the same as the previous day. Jack did the same exercises as the day before and Irina and the triplets went for a walk around town in the meantime. In the afternoon they came back and walked around the halls in the hospital and also used the time watching TV and playing board games and cards. After dinner they did the same and when Irina said goodnight to Jack as the last one, they once again only said a brief goodnight to each other. The only thing that was different from the previous day was that Jack and Irina hadn’t argued.

The next day the doctor walked into Jack’s room with two nurses. Jack had asked someone to get nurses to help him sit up and Maddie had gone to get them. Irina, Caitie, and Ethan were in his room too.

“Good morning, Mr. Bristow.”

“Good morning, doctor. I’d like to get up now.”

“So what’s stopping you?” Jack looked at the doctor a little surprised. “You’ve done great the last two days and the nurses can’t help you forever. I think it’s time you try getting up on your own in the morning. Don’t you?” Jack smiled and nodded.

“Yes, I think you’re right.”

Irina wanted to protest, but thought for the sake of the triplets that it was best not to argue with Jack. Instead she bit her bottom lip fearing that he would hurt his recovery in trying to get up on his own.

“Give it a try whenever you’re ready. We’ll be right here in case you need help.” Jack nodded and Irina and the triplets took a few steps back, so that the doctor and nurses would have easy access to Jack in case he needed help.

Jack took a couple of deep breaths preparing and steadying himself. When he felt ready he took hold of the bed on both sides with his hands and slowly started to pull himself up. He winced a little, but not much.

Irina saw that he was in pain and wanted nothing more than to rush to his side and make him lie back down. But she remained in place and she was relieved when he finally sat up.

Jack looked around at everyone and smiled. The triplets started to clap.

“Good job, daddy.” Jack let out a small laugh.

“Thanks.”

“You’ve been able to sit up on your own, Mr. Bristow, and now you just have to get out of bed too.” Jack nodded and took a couple of deep breaths before continuing.

He slowly moved his leg over the side of the bed. When he’d done that, he reached for the crutches that had been placed within his reach the night before. After getting them, he took another breath before trying to stand up.

Irina held her breath fearing that he might fall down, but she breathed a silent sigh of relief, when he got up without falling down.

Jack looked around and shrugged.

“Piece of cake.” Everyone but Irina laughed.

“If you say so, Mr. Bristow. Now I’d like you to take a few steps, so I can see if you do that as well as getting out of bed.” Jack nodded and walked towards the triplets as easily as he’d walked the last couple of days. “Very good, Mr. Bristow. You think you can manage to go to the bathroom on your own too?”

“I won’t know unless I give it a try.” The doctor moved out of the way and let Jack go to the bathroom.

Jack walked out a couple of minutes later.

“How did it go?”

“It went well.”

“I doubt you’re able to put on a pair of pants on your own just yet.” Jack shook his head.

“No, I don’t think so.”

“Okay, we’ll help you with that. What about putting on a robe? Try that.”

Jack walked over to the door where his robe was hanging. Irina wanted to protest again, thinking that it wouldn’t be good for him trying to do that on his own because it would mean that he would only be leaning on one crutch, while getting it and putting it on. But she was relieved when Jack was able to get it on without any help. Still she was afraid with everything that he’d done that he was draining himself of his strength. Strength she believed he needed to get better and not use up trying to get out of bed on his own.

The triplets, on the other hand, were excited about Jack’s progress.

“Daddy, you’re doing great.” He smiled at them.

“Thank you.” The doctor walked over to Jack.

“Let me just check your stitches to see how things look.” After a quick examination the doctor smiled at Jack. “Everything looks great. Let’s see how you do with sitting down.” Jack walked over to one of the chairs. Again he took a breath before slowly sitting down. He managed that too and the doctor smiled. “Amazing progress, Mr. Bristow. Try to get up.” Jack managed that too. “Well done. Let’s put some pants on you while you’re standing and then you and your family can be off to the cafeteria for breakfast.”

One of the nurses grabbed Jack’s sweatpants and helped him put them on. While the nurse did that, Irina looked away not wanting to see another woman helping her husband get dressed. When the nurse had put the pants on him, and put his slippers in front of him so that he could put them on, Jack looked at the doctor after putting on his slippers.

“Is there anything else I should do?” The doctor shook his head.

“No, not at the moment. We’ll walk down with you to the cafeteria to make sure that you can sit down on your own there too. Later we’ll do some more exercises, so that you can get even more used to getting by on your own.” Jack nodded.

“Okay. Well, if there’s nothing else then I think we should go to the cafeteria. I’m starving.” The doctor laughed.

“Well, let’s not stand in the way of your hunger. After you.” Jack walked out first followed by everyone else.

Jack continued getting better at sitting down and getting up throughout the day. While he went through his exercises and a longer examination, Irina and the triplets went to town. When they got back the triplets told Jack about their day, and Jack told them that he’d shaved himself for the first time. Though she didn’t led on, Irina was happy to hear that none of the nurses had done it.

The rest of the afternoon went by as the previous day and later they all sat down to dinner in the cafeteria. When they were done eating the doctor walked up to them. Jack nodded.

“Evening, doctor.”

“Good evening, everyone.” The rest of them nodded at the doctor. “Mr. Bristow, given how well you’ve been doing all day, I’ve decided to discharge you the day after tomorrow.” Both Jack and Irina gaped. Jack gaped because he was surprised whereas Irina gaped because she thought it was too soon for him to be discharged.

“Seriously?” The doctor nodded at Jack.

“Yes, I’m serious. As I told you a few days ago, I had thoughts about discharging you in a few days if you continued to do well, and you most certainly have.”

“It’s too soon.” Everyone looked at Irina, and Jack could feel he started to get agitated again. “You also said the other day that you’d prefer if he walked out of here only using a cane, and he isn’t. He’s not even close to only using a cane.”

“He might not be using a cane yet, Mrs. Bristow, but I assure you that your husband is well enough to be discharged. I wouldn’t make this decision if I wasn’t absolutely sure.” Irina nodded slightly.

“I do realize that, but I still think it’s too soon.”

“Again I can only say that it’s not too soon. As you know your husband will spend some time in a hospital at home before he’s allowed to be completely discharged.” Irina looked at Jack and she received an agitated look. She nodded and sighed.

“Fine.”

“I’ll need to talk to the doctor, who’ll be in charge of you when you get home, so that I can pass on your chart. But since I assume that no one is up yet in the US, I can get the information tomorrow morning on when to make contact. You should also make arrangements for your trip home, so that I can pass on any instructions to the crew onboard in case you need help onboard.” Jack nodded.

“I’ll make sure you get it.”

“Thank you. Well, I won’t take up anymore of your time. I just came to pass on the happy news.”

“Thank you.” The doctor left and Jack looked at the triplets, who were smiling from ear to ear.

“We’re finally going home.”

“That’s really great news, daddy.”

“It’ll be great seeing everyone again.”

“Yeah, I think so too.” He looked at Irina and she nodded.

“Yes, it’ll be good to come home.” He nodded back and was calmer than before.

When they called home in the evening everyone was thrilled to hear that Jack, Irina, and the triplets were coming home. After talking with the family at home, Jack got on the phone with Dixon and arranged for a plane to pick them up. The doctor had an hour earlier told them at what time they’d be leaving, so that they could make the exact plans for their departure.

After talking to Dixon, Jack got in touch with Dr. Peter Blake, who would be in charge of Jack during his stay in hospital. When that call ended, Ethan went to get a couple of nurses, who would make sure that Jack was alright getting in bed on his own. When Ethan left, so did Irina to make the waiting room ready for sleep.

Jack managed getting ready for bed on his own and only needed the nurses to help him take off his pants. When they’d done that, they left and the triplets said goodnight. As they walked out, Irina walked in. They looked at each other for a little while without saying anything.

“Well, I should let you get your rest.”

“Alright.”

“Goodnight, Jack.”

“Goodnight.” Jack sighed when she left, but was happy that they were all going home soon.

The next day Jack got out of bed on his own, though two nurses were present in his room. They helped him to get his pants on, but other than that he managed on his own.

When Jack had to do his exercises, Maddie suggested that the others stayed at the hospital and packed their things. Irina had agreed to that.

After Jack was done with his exercises they played board games and walked around until dinnertime. During dinner the triplets talked about being excited to go home and seeing everyone again, whom they’d missed a lot. Both Jack and Irina smiled at them, and Irina knew that even though she still thought Jack was being discharged too early, it would be best for the triplets to go home.

The spent the time until they called home playing board games. When it was their time to say goodnight to each other, Jack and Irina once again kept it brief.

The next morning Jack woke up feeling happy about finally going home. He hoped he wouldn’t have to spend too much time in hospital at home, but at least he’d be home, so he could deal with the stay in hospital. He decided he’d had enough of lying in bed, so he got up before anyone came to his room.

Shortly after he’d gotten up the triplets walked in and were happy that he was already up. Caitie went and got a nurse, and before Irina entered the room Jack had already his pants on and ready to leave for the cafeteria. Irina was not happy that he’d gotten up without anyone in the room, but she kept quiet about it.

They only stayed at the hospital for a few hours before it was time to leave. Jack had one last examination and the doctor was very pleased with the results. When the car that would take them to the airport was packed, they said goodbye to the doctor and the staff.

“Don’t get me wrong Mr. Bristow, but even though you’ve been a great patient, I’m happy to see you leave.” Jack laughed.

“I’m happy about leaving too.”

“Take care and I wish you all the best.” He looked at Irina and the triplets. “I wish all of you all the best.” Irina nodded.

“Thank you.”

They said one last goodbye to everyone before getting in the car and leaving.

When they got to the airport and the luggage had been brought onboard, they all took one last look around before boarding the plane. Jack then looked at them.

“Let’s go home.”

TBC
 
Yehoooooo, he is finally released from the hospital :D but I guess new problems await them at home..I am sure Irina will refuse to sleep by him till he gets well and Jack will be sad.
 
Yehoooooo, he is finally released from the hospital :D
Yes, he is or at least the hospital in India. He'll have to spend a little bit of time in the hospital at home.
but I guess new problems await them at home..
Yes, things won't get back to normal anytime soon.
I am sure Irina will refuse to sleep by him till he gets well and Jack will be sad.
Time will tell if that happens.

Thank you Sydney Derevko Bristow. :smiley:
 
Where are you? Your last post was at the beginning of october and it is almost february :eek:hmy: I know you were busy with christmas holiday and all but please we are out here waiting for you to update. Please come back to us Mette!
 
Where are you? Your last post was at the beginning of october and it is almost february :eek:hmy: I know you were busy with christmas holiday and all but please we are out here waiting for you to update. Please come back to us Mette!
I'm so sorry that I've been away from this board for so long. I still haven't completed the next chapter yet, but I think I'm close to having it finished. I'll see if I can't hurry up, but I'm not making any promises.

I hope people are still interested in the story, but I'll understand if no one wants to read it anymore.

Take care and enjoy your day.

Sincerely, Mette.
 
It Was For The Best - Part 2.

I can't believe it, but I'm finally updating. Sorry it took so long. I'll try to get the next chapter to you faster than this one, but as usual I can't really make any promises.

Chapter 33
Jack, Irina, and the triplets arrived home in the afternoon. Sydney, Nadia, Peter and two agents were waiting for them at the airstrip. The triplets ran out of the plane first, and right over to Sydney and Nadia, who were waiting for them with open arms. After hugs and kisses had been passed around they looked at each other.

“It’s so great to see you again, and it’s great to have you home.”

“Yeah, and we’ve missed you.”

“We’ve missed you too.”

“Yes, very much, and it’s really great to be home.” Sydney and Nadia smiled at their siblings and pulled them all in for another hug.

“We love you.”

“We love you too.” Nadia looked up and saw Irina walking towards them.

“Hi mom.” Irina first hugged and kissed Nadia and then Sydney.

“Hi sweethearts.”

“Where’s dad?”

“Right here.”

They all looked towards the plane, and saw Jack walking off the plane with a pair of crutches to help him. Two medics had been onboard the plane when it went to India to pick up Jack, Irina, and the triplets. One had walked out of the plane before Jack to help from the front in case something happened, and the other waited behind Jack to help from behind in case something went wrong.

Jack had no trouble getting off the plane and he walked closer to everyone without any trouble either. Sydney and Nadia gaped at seeing their father up and walking again and of how well he was doing. He chuckled when he saw their reaction.

“You ain’t seen nothing yet.” He took the crutch he was holding in his right hand over in his left hand. While leaning on both crutches with his left arm, he held out his right arm. “Tadaa.” He chuckled again as they hadn’t changed their facial expressions. “Well? Are you going to give me a hug or not?”

Irina was worried about Jack’s health. Firstly, because he had one arm free and secondly, because he wanted Sydney and Nadia to hug him. She was worried that he’d be subjected to too much pressure to his wounds that still needed to heal a good amount.

Nadia stopped gaping and instead smiled and walked up to her father giving him a hug that put no pressure to his wounds. Irina breathed out a silent sigh of relief.

“Hi dad. It’s so great to have you home.” She gave him a kiss on the cheek, and he gave her one in return.

“Hi sweetheart. It’s great to be home.” Sydney then walked up to him and gave him the same kind of hug too.

“Hi dad. We’ve missed you.” She gave him a kiss on the cheek too and he did the same to her.

“Hi sweetheart. I’ve missed you too.”

While Sydney greeted Jack, Peter greeted Irina and the triplets before walking over to Jack. He reached out his hand and Jack shook it.

“Good to have you back, Jack.”

“Thanks.”

“Now, get back to using both crutches. Doctor’s orders.” Jack rolled his eyes but did as he was told, and Irina was happy about that. Jack took a look around, and then looked at Sydney and Nadia.

“Where is everybody?”

“Peter thought it’d be best to get you settled into the hospital first.” Jack rolled his eyes at Peter. Peter shook his head amused.

“Roll your eyes all you want, Jack, but it’s been a long flight, and I wasn’t sure if you’d be up for seeing so many at once.”

“I feel fine enough.”

“That may very well be, but you’re my patient now. I know you’ve done amazingly so far with your recovery, but I also want you to rest a bit before seeing so many people at a time.” Jack sighed. “Don’t worry, Jack. We’ll get you settled into a bed and then you’ll rest for about half an hour before we’re bringing the rest of your family and friends to the hospital. Everyone here is more than welcome to stay with you during that time.” Jack sighed while Irina was glad that Peter had told Jack to rest in bed.

“Dad, everyone is looking forward to seeing all of you too, and just like you, they can’t wait either. But they know you have to follow the doctor’s orders.”

“And it’ll only be for half an hour. That time will pass in no time.” Jack smiled at Sydney and Nadia.

“I guess I can manage that.”

“Yes, and the sooner we get you to the hospital, the sooner you can see them. Agent Thomson and agent Philips will bring your luggage to the cars.”

The two agents, who’d been driving the two vans that would be driving everyone to the hospital, stepped forward. They nodded and smiled at Jack and Irina.

“Sir, ma’am, it’s good to have you home again.” Agent Thomson looked at the triplets too. “It’s good to have all of you home again.”

“Thank you. It’s good to be home.”

“Thank you.”

“Well, let’s get the luggage, so we can get you to the hospital.” The agents walked towards the plane and Peter looked at the two medics.

“Why don’t you give them a hand? That way we can get out of here faster.” They nodded.

“Certainly.” Peter looked at Jack.

“Do you need to sit down?” Jack shook his head.

“No, after sitting down for so many hours without being able to walk around much, I need to stretch my body.”

“Okay that’s fine.” Jack smirked at Peter.

“So, am I allowed to walk around or will that go against doctor’s orders?” Peter chuckled at Jack’s question and so did everyone else, with the exception of Irina, who merely smiled a little.

“No, you can walk as much as you feel you can handle.”

“Thank you.” Jack looked around at everyone. “Anyone care to join me for a little walk?”

“Absolutely dad.”

“There’s nothing we’d rather do.”

They walked around talking. They mostly talked about how all the kids were excited about Jack, Irina, and the triplets being home, and ten minutes later the cars were packed and they walked back to them.

Sydney looked between her parents.

“So who goes with whom?” Irina looked at her.

“You and Nadia can go with your father, Peter, and the two medics. The triplets and I can go in the other car.” Sydney and Nadia nodded and Sydney looked at the triplets.

“Would that be alright with you?” The triplets smiled and nodded.

“Yes absolutely.” She looked at Jack.

“Dad?” He smiled and nodded at her.

“Of course, sweetheart.”

“Then we should get to the hospital so you can get settled into your bed. The sooner you do that, the sooner you get to see everyone else.” Jack smiled and nodded before they all got into the cars and went to the hospital.

When they arrived at the hospital and everyone had gotten out agent Thomson looked at Irina.

“We’re going to drop off your luggage at your house. Your sister and cousin said it would be alright, and they’re at the house at the moment.” Irina nodded and smiled.

“Thank you.”

“Do you need any of the luggage?”

“I packed a bag with some of Jack things, he might need. I’ll just get it.” She got the bag and looked at the agents. “You can just leave everything in the hall, and tell my sister and cousin that I’ll put everything away myself.”

“Yes, ma’am.”

“Thank you.”

The agents left and everyone else went inside to get Jack settled into his bed.

After getting Jack settled in, Peter left the room while everyone else stayed and talked. Thirty minutes later Peter returned. Jack gave him an un-amused glare.

“I’ve been in my bed now for thirty minutes, and the rest of my family and friends aren’t here yet. You said I would only have to rest for thirty minutes and then I could see them. If they’d been contacted fifteen minutes ago they could’ve been here by now, and I would still have rested for thirty minutes by the time they got here.” Peter looked at him amused.

“Well hello to you too, Jack.” Jack rolled his eyes.

“You left here thirty minutes ago, so I hardly think we need to say hello to each other again.”

“Someone’s a little grumpy.”

“Only because you promised that I’d only have to stay in bed for thirty minutes before I could see the rest of my family and friends.”

Sydney, Nadia, and the triplets tried to hide the grins on their faces from seeing how their father was reacting. When Sydney had her grin somewhat under control, she gave Jack’s arm a gentle squeeze and smirked at him.

“Dad, remember what you promised Nadia and me before we left India?”

He gave her an un-amused glare when he saw the look on her face. When he saw the look on Nadia and the triplets’ faces, he gave them an un-amused glare too. Nadia looked at Sydney.

“From the look on his face, I’d say he does, Syd.” Nadia looked at her father. “Dad, the same thing applies here. You do as you’re told by the doctors and nurses, no matter how many times they tell you. Promise us you’ll do that.”

“I made that promise to you in India.”

“Yes, but that was then and this is now. With the way you’re acting, I think it’s best if you make us that promise again.” Jack rolled his eyes.

“You’re treating me like a child.”

“That’s only because you’re acting a bit like a child at the moment.” He rolled his eyes again.

“But also because we only want what’s best for you.” He looked at Sydney and Nadia again, and smiled lovingly at them when he saw that they smiled lovingly at him.

“Okay, okay. I promise I’ll do everything I’m told by the doctors and nurses.” He looked at the triplets and smiled lovingly back at them too before looking at Peter. “Can the rest of my family and friends be contacted now? I think we’ve all waited long enough.” Peter nodded.

“Sure go ahead.” Jack looked between Sydney and Nadia.

“You heard the man. Start calling everyone.” Everyone laughed at that with the exception of Irina, who merely smiled a little.

Sydney and Nadia started calling everyone, and Peter left. When all the phone calls had been made, everyone started talking again.

Twenty minutes later there was a knock on the door.

“Come in.”

Vaughn stuck his head in and smiled.

“Can we come in?” Everyone in the room smiled broadly.

“Yes, absolutely.”

Vaughn walked in carrying Nicholas. Eric walked in after him carrying David. He was followed by Isabelle, Sarah, Becky, Katya, and Sergei.

“Grandma!”

“Uncle Sergei!”

“Aunt Katya!”

Isabelle, Sarah, and Becky went straight to Irina, who was waiting for them with open arms. Ethan, Caitie, and Maddie went straight to Katya and Sergei, who were waiting for them with open arms, and Vaughn and Eric walked up to Jack’s bed so that he could say hello to his grandsons. Jack smiled.

“Hi boys. I’ve missed you.” Eric smiled.

“We’ve missed you too, Jack.” Jack gave him an un-amused glare.

“I was talking to my grandsons.”

Vaughn chuckled and then looked at Eric smiling at him.

“It seems like he’s his old self again.” Eric smiled nodded and both he and Vaughn chuckled when Jack smirked at them.

When Jack was saying hello to his grandsons, Irina was hugging her granddaughters, and Katya and Sergei took turns hugging the triplets. Katya and Sergei hugged the triplets tighter than usual, but Irina noticed that Katya hugged them even tighter than Sergei did.

Katya gave the triplets an extra kiss and hug, and that didn’t go by unnoticed by Irina either. Katya looked at the triplets and smiled at them.

“It’s so great to finally have you home again. We’ve missed you terribly.”

“We’ve missed you too, aunt Katya.”

“We’ve missed you too, uncle Sergei.” Sergei smiled at them.

“I’ve missed you too. So much.” He gave them another hug and kiss too.

“We’ve missed you, grandma. We were afraid we’d never see you again.” Irina kissed Isabelle’s cheek.

“We’ve missed you too. And you don’t need to be afraid anymore. We’re all safe now.”

“We’re really happy about that.” Irina gave Becky a kiss on the cheek too.

“So are all of us.” She gave Sarah a kiss on the cheek too, and then engulfed them all in a tight hug.

“Hey, can I get a hug too?”

Irina, Isabelle, Sarah, and Becky looked at Jack, and while Isabelle, Sarah, and Becky were happy about hugging Jack again, Irina was worried that it would be too much for him. But she also didn’t think it was good for anyone if she objected.

“Of course, grandpa.”

Irina let go of her granddaughters and they walked over to Jack. Sydney and Nadia walked closer up to Jack’s bed. Nadia looked at her daughter and nieces.

“You have to be careful when you hug grandpa. He still needs to recover a great deal, so you can’t hug him too tightly.”

Isabelle, Sarah, and Becky all looked a little afraid to hug Jack out of fear that they would hurt him. Jack saw this and leaned a little forward in his bed smiling at them.

“You don’t have to be afraid of hurting me, because you won’t.” He could tell that they weren’t completely convinced. “Tell you what, if you all take your turn sitting on the bed right next to me, I’ll lean forward even more so that you can put your arms around my neck. I’ll then put my arms around you and control the pressure of the hug. How does that sound?”

The girls weren’t quite convinced yet.

“Are you sure we won’t hurt you, grandpa?”

“Yes Sarah, I’m absolutely sure you won’t hurt me. Getting a hug and a kiss from you three will help me feel better and help me heal faster.” That made them smile and nod.

“Okay.”

Irina watched as Isabelle was the first to put her arms around Jack. She held her breath afraid that it might hurt him, but her thoughts were soon interrupted as she felt a hand on her shoulder. She turned around and found Katya smiling at her.

“It’s good to have you home again.” Irina returned the smile.

“It’s good to be home again.” They hugged and exchanged kisses on the cheeks.

“You have been missed.” Katya took Irina’s face in her hands and spoke quietly. “How are you?” Irina nodded, smiled a little and spoke quietly too.

“It’s over, so we’re fine. And we’re home now, so that helps.” Katya eyed her for a moment but then nodded once.

“Okay.” They hugged again until Sergei interrupted them.

“Can I get a hug now?” They released each other and Irina smiled at Sergei.

“Absolutely.” They hugged and kissed each other on the cheeks like Irina and Katya had done.

“It’s so good to have you all home again. You’ve all been missed greatly.” They looked at each other.

“We’ve missed all of you too.”

“I love you.”

“I love you too, Sergei.”

While Irina was hugging Katya and Sergei, the triplets walked over to Vaughn and Eric to get hugs from them, and to see their nephews again, and when Isabelle, Sarah, and Becky were done hugging Jack, the triplets hugged their nieces, while Irina held her grandsons.
Katya walked up to Jack’s bed. She smiled at him.

“Good to have you back, Jack. Though, I never for a minute thought that you wouldn’t come home.” He smiled back at her.

“Thanks, Katya. I trust things have gone well at APO now that you’ve been around longer.” She smirked.

“Of course. I’ve been the perfect angel.” Jack laughed at that.

“Somehow, I doubt it.” She shrugged while still smiling.

“Maybe not an angel, but still my charming self.” He smirked at her now.

“Now that I can believe.” Sergei joined Katya.

“It’s great to have you all home, Jack.” He gave Jack’s shoulder a squeeze and then leaned in and gave him a quick hug.

“Thanks. It’s good to see you all again.”

After a few minutes of more hugging, kissing, and talking Caitie looked at Vaughn and Eric.

“Where’s everyone else?”

“They’ll be here a little later. They all thought we should be the first ones to welcome you home, and some of them had work, to finish.” She nodded.

“Okay.”

After another few minutes passed Vaughn, Sergei, and Eric went out to get chairs for everyone, and when they got back they all talked about what had been going on with the people at home, about the triplets’ and Irina’s experiences in India while Jack recovered, and about Jack’s recovery.

An hour later there was another knock on the door.

“Come in.”

Dixon popped his head in and smiled when he saw everyone, and when he saw Jack awake.

“Is this a good time for a visit?” Jack smiled back.

“It’s a perfect time for a visit.”

Dixon walked in followed by Chase, Stephen, Robin, Marshall, Carrie, Mitchell, Matthew, Chloe, and Gracie.

The triplets went to hug all the kids, while Carrie met Irina halfway and they hugged. Dixon walked up to Jack’s bed and shook his hand.

“Good to have you back home, Jack. And it’s great that you’re doing so well.” Jack returned the smile.

“Thanks, Marcus. It’s great to finally be home.”

“Hopefully you’ll be able to get out of this hospital and completely home soon.” Jack nodded.

“Yeah, I’m counting on that.”

When Carrie had hugged Irina, Marshall didn’t hesitate to hug her, and the huge smile on his face couldn’t be denied.

“It’s really great to have you back. We’ve missed you.” Irina smiled broadly at him.

“We’ve missed all of you too.”

Marshall looked passed Irina’s shoulder over to Jack and watched Carrie greeting him. Jack caught Marshall looking at him and when he did, Marshall immediately started waving his hand at him.

“Hi Jack.” Everyone couldn’t help but laugh at Marshall overexcited outburst. Even Irina laughed a little. Jack smiled back at him.

“Hi Marshall.” Marshall walked over to Jack’s bed and looked at him a little nervously.

“Would it be alright to give you a hug? I mean, I don’t want to hurt you or anything.” Jack let out a little laugh.

“That would be alright. Just as long as you don’t hug too tightly.”

“I won’t.”

Irina couldn’t stand to see Marshall hug Jack so she turned away from him and instead greeted Chase. Chase reached her hand out to her and smiled at her.

“It’s good to have you home again, Irina.” Irina smiled back.

“Thank you. It’s good to be back.”

While Jack hugged Marshall he noticed Irina shaking hands with Chase and how they were smiling at each other. It surprised him since he thought that nothing had changed between them nor did he know that Chase had been in India. It further surprised him seeing Chase smile when Dixon walked over to Irina and hugged her. However, he didn’t have time to think about it any further as Robin, Stephen, Mitchell, Matthew, Chloe, and Gracie walked up to him to say hi.

“It’s great to have you home again, Irina.” Irina returned Dixon’s smile.

“Thank you, Marcus. It’s great to finally be home.”

“The way Jack’s looking it seems it won’t be long until he’s completely home.” Irina gave a small smile to keep up appearances.

“We’ll see. It all depends on what Peter says.”

“Well from the looks of it I think he’ll let Jack go home soon.” Irina just kept on giving Dixon a small smile and was soon interrupted by Robin, Stephen, Mitchell, Matthew, Chloe, and Gracie, who all came to greet her.

Dixon went to join Carrie and Marshall in welcoming the triplets home, and Chase walked up to greet Jack. She smiled sincerely at him.

“Hello Jack.” Jack nodded and smiled a little.

“Hello.”

“You almost look like you’re ready to return to work. You’ve certainly made a remarkable recovery.” He looked at her a little oddly, but then nodded.

“I do feel better every day, so hopefully it won’t be long before I’m back at work. Though I’m sure my doctor will have something to say about that.” Chase let out a small laugh which surprised Jack, though he didn’t let it show enough for Chase to notice.

“There’s no need to rush your recovery. Take all the time you need.” She shook her head in amazement. “It really is remarkable how fast you’ve recovered considering the state I saw you in last.” Jack gave her a confused look.

“What do you mean? The last time you saw me was here in L.A.” Chase looked at Jack a little surprised.

“Didn’t anyone tell you I was in India?” Jack shook his head.

“No.” She spoke quietly so that the kids wouldn’t hear.

“I went on the mission to oversee things in India, and I stayed for a few days after you were brought to the hospital.”

“I didn’t know that.” She shrugged and smiled.

“My part in the mission wasn’t as important as everyone else’s, and you’ve all had more important things to think about. I’m sure that Irina and your children also had better things to talk about after you woke up than me being in India.” Jack nodded and smiled a little.

“Yeah, I guess that must be why they didn’t mention anything.”

Jack was still curious as to why Irina hadn’t mentioned anything and especially since she and Chase seemed to get along better than they’d ever done. But he wasn’t going to ask Chase about her relationship with Irina now, nor was he going to ask Irina or anyone else about it right now. His thoughts were broken by Maddie’s question to Dixon.

“Where’s uncle Kendall?”

“He still had some work to do, but he promised he’d be here as soon as he could.”

“Okay.”

Everyone continued talking and forty minutes later there was another knock on the door.

“Come in.”

Kendall popped his head in and smiled.

“I gather by the large crowd here that I don’t have to ask if this is a good time to visit.” Jack smiled back at Kendall.

“No, you don’t need to ask about that.” Kendall nodded and walked in. Within a second the triplets ran over to him all speaking simultaneously.

“Uncle Kendall!” He engulfed all three of them in a big tight hug.

“It’s so great to see you again. I’ve missed you.”

Katya watched as Kendall and the triplets hugged each other. A small smile spread across her lips which didn’t go by unnoticed by Irina.

“We’ve missed you too, uncle Kendall.” He smiled at them and gave them another hug.

“It’s great to have you home.” He let go of them and looked up at Irina and smiled. “It’s great to have all of you home.” He looked at Jack again and smiled at him too. They both returned the smile.

“It’s great to see you too, Kendall.” He let go of the triplets and walked over to Irina and gave her a hug.

“Welcome home.”

“Thank you.”

“You’ve all been missed.”

“We’ve missed all of you too.” They looked at each other smiling one more time before Kendall walked over to Jack.

“Well, well look at you. You look great, Jack.”

“Thank you. I feel great too. Or at least I feel better with each passing day.”

“Do you feel good enough to get a hug?” Jack chuckled a little.

“Yes, I do.” Kendall chuckled too and gave Jack a small hug.

“Welcome home.”

“Thank you.” He motioned for Dixon to join them, and when he did Jack spoke to both of them quietly. “I trust everything at APO has been running smoothly as always. But is there anything I need to know about? What’s been going on?”

“No, everything is just fine.”

“You just concentrate on getting better.” Jack gave them both an un-amused glare.

“I’m not that bad off that I can’t be told what’s going on at APO. I’m still the Director.” Kendall and Dixon looked at each other and smirked.

“I don’t know about you, Marcus, but his Bristow-boss-attitude seems to be perfectly fine as always.” Dixon nodded.

“Yeah, I agree with you.” Jack rolled his eyes at them.

“And your lack of humor seems to be missing as always.” Both Kendall and Dixon laughed at that.

“Jack, we know you don’t like being sick, but it’s rea..”

“I’m not sick.” Kendall and Dixon laughed again at Jack’s attitude. Dixon looked at Jack again and nodded.

“Okay, so you’re not sick. But you’re not exactly in top shape either.” Dixon ignored the slight glare Jack was giving him. “We just want you to take it easy, so that you can recover completely.”

“I can still do that perfectly well while still knowing what’s going on at APO.” Kendall thought he’d give it a try and nodded at Jack.

“Yes, we know that. You’re quite good at multitasking.” Kendall grinned, but his joke only earned him a slight glare from Jack. “I see my humor hasn’t improved on you in the last few seconds.” Jack smirked and all three laughed. “How about you just rest for the day and enjoy everyone’s company, and then tomorrow Marcus and I will tell you about APO when the three of us are alone?” Jack looked between the two of them and nodded.

“I think I can agree to that.” They all laughed a little more.

“We’re glad you agree.”

Everyone continued talking and thirty minutes later Peter walked into Jack’s room.

“How’s the patient?” Jack rolled his eyes at Peter. Vaughn looked at Peter and smirked.

“Does that answer your question?” Peter laughed and nodded before walking up to Jack’s bed. Jack gave him a slight glare.

“Don’t even think about asking me how I’m doing.” Peter laughed and shook his head.

“I wouldn’t dream of it. I actually just came to ask about dinner.” He looked around at everyone else. “Are you all planning on staying to have dinner with Jack?” Everyone looked around at each other. Sydney looked at Peter.

“I know that we’d like to stay.” Nadia nodded.

“So would we.” Peter nodded and then looked around at the rest of them.

“What about the rest of you.”

Dixon looked at his children, who smiled at him indicating that they’d like to stay. He didn’t bother to look at Chase before answering. Irina noticed him doing that, and noticed that Chase didn’t object to not being asked or even being given the time of day.

“If it’s no trouble, we’d like to stay.” Peter shook his head.

“It’s no trouble at all. I just wanted to know, so that I could tell the kitchen staff how many to make dinner for.” Kendall smiled at Peter.

“That’s very kind of you. Thank you.” Everyone else nodded agreeing with Kendall.

“You’re very welcome. So how many of the rest of you are staying?”

The rest of them each said they’d be staying and Peter nodded. Before leaving he told them that he’d be back when dinner was ready.

Forty-five minutes later Peter came back. He was about to speak but Jack cut him off before he even had a chance to say anything.

“Do not ask me how I’m doing.” Everyone laughed at that except for Irina.

Peter crossed his arm across his chest and arched an eyebrow at Jack while smirking.

“I just came to tell you that dinner is ready.” Jack smirked back shrugging.

“Well, you never know.” Everyone laughed again, but still Irina didn’t.

“Fair enough, Jack. Now get out of bed if you want to eat.”

Irina wanted to protest. She didn’t want Jack to get out of bed on his own after the long flight. But she figured it wasn’t a good thing to argue with him, and especially not in front of everyone. Instead she focused on Nicholas, who she was holding.

Jack got out of the bed easily, and got ready to head down to dinner. When he was done he looked at Peter and smirked.

“Now will you stop asking me how I’m doing?” Peter smirked back and then shook his head.

“No.” Jack sighed, and Peter let out a laugh. “It’s for your own good, Jack. I’m your doctor and it’s my job to get you well enough, so that you can go home.” Jack was about to open his mouth to tell Peter he was fine, but Peter stopped him knowing of Jack’s intention. “And that will only happen if you’re completely honest with me, and if you quit the attitude.” Jack pouted slightly and Eric laughed out loud at that.

“Poor Jack being told off by the big, mean doctor.” Jack glared at Eric, which he didn’t notice, because he was laughing too hard.

Ethan walked over to Eric and lightly tucked on Eric’s sleeve. When he had Eric’s attention, he smirked at him.

“I’d be careful if I was you. You need to keep in mind that you’re still married to his daughter and that he’s your boss. He can make your life miserable.”

Eric stopped laughing but everyone else laughed even more than they’d done at Eric’s comment. Even Irina smiled. He swallowed hard and then looked from Ethan to Jack and saw that father and son had matching smirks plastered on their faces. He pointed his finger from one to the other but then shook his head and then pointed the finger at Ethan again.

“You’re beginning to be more and more like your father every day.” Ethan crossed his arms across his chest and kept smirking.

“You’re making it sound like that’s a bad thing. Do you think it’s a bad thing that I’m like my father?” Eric’s jaw dropped while everyone laughed harder at that.

Nadia walked up to her husband and placed a hand on his shoulder.

“Honey, I’d think long and hard before you give my brother an answer.” Eric turned his head to look at his wife.

“Don’t take your brother’s side in this. You’re supposed to be on my side.” Now Nadia crossed her arms across her chest and smirked at Eric.

“You know perfectly well what you got yourself into when we got married.” He gaped at her while everyone laughed even more.

Vaughn walked up to Eric laughing and padded him on the back.

“Seems like you got yourself into a lot of trouble.” He kept laughing and then looked at Ethan. “I for one think it’s wonderful that you’re just like your dad.” He smiled at Ethan and then looked at Jack smiling at him too.

Without looking at each other, Jack and Ethan answered Vaughn simultaneously.

“Smartass.” Now it was Vaughn’s turn to gape while Eric laughed along with everyone else.

“Hey, I was being honest.” Sydney walked up to Vaughn and placed a hand on his shoulder.

“You have to admit that you had it coming.” He was about to protest but then nodded.

“Yeah, I guess you’re right.” He looked between Jack and Ethan. “But I still meant it.” They both smirked at him and then Jack turned his attention to Eric.

“I believe you still owe my son an answer.” Eric rolled his eyes.

“Oh come on.” He looked around at everyone, but seeing as he couldn’t get out of it he looked at Ethan again. “No, I don’t think it’s a bad thing.” He smirked back at Ethan. “Though, you could lighten up on some of your similarities.” Ethan shrugged and everyone laughed. Eric then smiled sincerely. “But you’re a perfect combination of both your mom and your dad.” Ethan smiled at that. Vaughn nodded and looked at Sydney, Nadia, Maddie, and Caitie.

“And so are your sisters.” Everyone else smiled and Ethan looked at Jack.

“Can you accept that answer, daddy.” Jack smiled at his son, and then smirked.

“I can for now.” Ethan smirked back.

“My thoughts exactly.” They both smirked looking at Vaughn and Eric, and while they groaned everyone laughed, though Irina smiled slightly like she’d done the entire time.

After Peter finished laughing he looked around at everyone.

“How about you all go down to dinner now?”

Peter took them to a conference room where dinner had been set up, so that they could have some privacy. Everyone took a seat around the table and Katya and Kendall ended up sitting next to each other but didn’t object. It wasn’t until Kendall poured Katya some water in her water glass while she got some food that she objected. She gave him an annoyed look with her tone matching her facial expression.

“Did I ask you to give me some water?” He rolled his eyes while putting the water bottle down after pouring himself some water.

He looked at her and gave her an annoyed look matching her own.

“No, you didn’t ask me to do that. But since you always have water with your meals, I just assumed that you wanted some now, too.”

“Don’t assume anything.” He rolled his eyes at her again. “What am I supposed to do now? We can’t trade glasses since you also have water in yours.” He shook his head.

“Oh for crying out loud.” He took her glass and drank all the water. When he was done he put it back down. “There. Water’s all gone. Happy now?”

She gaped at him and then gave him an even more annoyed look.

“You drank my water.”

“You said you didn’t want it.”

“I never said that.” He rolled his eyes again.

“Well, you said we couldn’t trade glasses because I had water in my glass, too. How am I supposed to know that it meant you still wanted the water? Everyone else here would think that it meant you didn’t want the water.”

“You drank from my glass.”

“Oh grow up. I’m not sick, so it’s not like you’re going to catch anything.”

She kept giving him an annoyed look, but he went back to getting himself some food. She gave up looking at him and then poured herself some water. When Kendall noticed that, he rolled his eyes at her and shook his head. Everyone else, who had tried their best not to laugh during Katya and Kendall’s argument, rolled their eyes too.

When Katya was done she picked up her glass to take a sip from her water, and at the same time Kendall did the same with his glass. Katya didn’t notice that she put her lips on the exact same spot where Kendall’s lips had been. But Caitie noticed and started to grin.

“Aunt Katya, your lips are on the same spot where uncle Kendall’s lips were. That’s almost like you’re kissing.”

That comment made both Katya and Kendall spit out their water while everyone laughed. Katya shook her head while wiping her mouth and then looked at Caitie.

“It most certainly is not like we’re kissing. That’s a ridiculous thing to say.”

“Come on, aunt Katya. Even you have to admit that it’s funny.” Katya shook her head at Maddie.

“I don’t see that there’s anything remotely funny about it. Now can we eat and not speak of this again?” Everyone shrugged and resumed eating while Katya turned her glass around, so that the same thing wouldn’t happen again.

From the corner of his eye Kendall watched what she did with her glass but didn’t comment on it. He kept looking at her from the corner of his eye for a few seconds while eating, but when there was no further reaction from her, he turned his attention completely back on his food, and joined the conversation that Marshall started.

During dinner everyone talked, but it was mostly the children, who controlled the conversation. After dinner they all moved into another room with armchairs and couches, so that they could sit more comfortably.

Hours after dinner, Sydney looked around at her children. Nicholas was asleep, Sarah was just about to sleep, and Isabelle also had to fight to keep her eyes open.

“Okay, I think it’s time we got you home. It’s way passed your bedtime anyway.” Carrie looked around at her own children.

“Yeah, Marshall, I think we should get the kids home, too.” He nodded and Nadia looked at Eric after looking at their children.

“I think we should do the same.”

Isabelle gave her mom a puppy dog look.

“Can’t we stay for a little while longer with grandpa and grandma?” Sydney smiled at her.

“You can barely keep your eyes open. If we stayed you’d only be falling asleep within the next few minutes. But we’ll be back tomorrow to visit grandpa, and I know that grandma will be here too.”

Jack kept up appearances on the outside, but on the inside he wasn’t so sure if Irina wanted to come back the next day. He knew she would, but he thought that spending too much alone time with him, even with the triplets there, would prove to be too much intimacy too soon. He looked at Irina to see if he could see any indication that she’d be uncomfortable, but when he saw none he turned his attention to Isabelle.

“You should listen to your mother, sweetheart. You can come and visit me tomorrow for as long as you want.” Isabelle smiled at that.

“Okay grandpa.”

Dixon looked at his children.

“We should leave too. I need to be at the office early to make a phone call to London.” They nodded and went to say goodbye to Jack.

Vaughn looked at Katya, Sergei, and Kendall.

“Are you leaving too?”

“No, Katya and I are staying for a while yet.” Kendall nodded.

“So am I.” Katya looked at Kendall.

“You’re staying?” He looked at Katya.

“Yes. Why, is that a problem?”

“I just thought you also had work to do tomorrow.”

“I do, but not as early as Marcus, so I’m allowed to stay out longer.” She gave him an annoyed glance that made him roll his eyes. “I’m not staying for several hours, if that’s what you’re worried about. I’m sure I’ll be leaving before you do.”

“I have better things to do with my time than worry about how long you’re staying here.” They kept glaring a bit at each other and Vaughn shook his head.

“I’m sorry I ever asked if you were staying. If you’ll excuse me, I think I’ll just say goodnight to Jack, Irina, and the triplets.” Sergei shook his head at Katya and Kendall and wished he was Vaughn at that moment.

Sydney had just said goodbye to her father and was about to say goodbye to her mother as well.

“Bye mom.”

“I’m coming with you down to the cars to say goodbye. I could use the fresh air.” She looked at the triplets. “What do you three say to going with me to get a mouthful of fresh air?” They nodded and she smiled at them. “Good.” Sydney nodded.

“Okay. I’ll just get Nicholas, and by the looks of things everyone else is ready to leave too.” Irina nodded and then looked around at Jack, Katya, Sergei, and Kendall.

“See you in a little while.” They all nodded and after a few more goodbyes the four of them were the only ones left in the room.

After having said goodbye to everyone, Irina and the triplets stayed outside for a few more minutes but then headed back inside. On the elevator ride up to their father, aunt, and uncles Maddie looked at her mother.

“Are we sleeping here tonight, mommy?” Irina shook her head and then looked around at the triplets.

“No, we’re going home. All our stuff is there, and our things, we had in India, are now also at home. Besides, it’ll do us all good to sleep in our own beds and start getting back to normal.”

“But what about daddy? Won’t he be lonely?” Irina smiled at Caitie.

“He’s a big boy, so he’ll be just fine. Sleeping at home won’t be any different from our sleeping arrangement in India after daddy woke up. It’ll just take us a little longer to get to his room when we’re sleeping at home.”

Irina knew that by sleeping at home, she wouldn’t have to see Jack getting out of bed in the morning, and she wouldn’t do anything that might cause his recovery to go the wrong way. She knew that the triplets would want to be near Jack, but she didn’t want to leave any room for discussion. And she knew she wasn’t lying to the triplets when she said that the sleeping arrangements now wouldn’t be different from the ones in India. She was glad to see that they all nodded and that they didn’t seem to be too sad about it.

“But we’re coming to see daddy tomorrow, right?” She nodded and smiled at Ethan.

“Of course, sweetheart. But we’ll also be going out once in a while to get things back to normal. Your father will need his rest anyway, so we can go out when he’s doing that.”

“But the last couple of days in India, he didn’t need to rest so much. Do you really think he’ll need to rest much now, and especially since he’s doing better every day?”

“It was a long flight home, so I know he’ll need his rest for the first few days. And if he gets plenty of rest, he’ll heal faster.” The triplets nodded and shrugged slightly. “Besides, you three need to get back to your normal routines. The sooner we put what happened behind us properly, the sooner it will all just seem like a horrible nightmare that we won’t remember so well.” Deep in the back of her mind, she knew she was trying to convince herself more of that than she was trying to convince the triplets. But she didn’t let it show. “I’m sure you’d like to go to the playground, the carrousel, and the zoo.” They nodded a bit more now and smiled.

“Yes mommy. You’re right.”

“I’m glad you agree.”

They arrived back at the floor the others were on and a few moments later, they joined them.

A little over an hour later Kendall looked at his watch.

“I hate to leave, but I should get home.” Katya smirked at him.

“Does the princess need to get her beauty sleep?” He rolled his eyes at her.

“Yeah, yeah whatever.” He got up and walked over to Jack, who stood up. “It’s great having you home again, Jack.” Jack returned the hug he got.

“Thank you. It’s great to be home.” Kendall moved onto Irina and was about to hug her goodbye too.

“Actually, I think we should be leaving too. It’s getting late and it was a long flight.” She looked at the triplets. “I don’t know about you three, but I’m pretty tired.”

Kendall nodded and went over to say goodbye to Sergei, who had just gotten back from the restroom. Jack looked at Irina a bit surprised.

“You’re leaving? I mean, you’re staying at home tonight?” Irina looked back at him.

“Yes. I think it’s best for the triplets that they get back to normal and back to their normal routines. They also need to get a proper night’s sleep and they can best get that in their own beds.”

Jack nodded. He had hoped Irina and the triplets would’ve stayed at the hospital, but he also knew that what Irina said made sense, so he guessed he shouldn’t really have been that surprised. However, he’d hoped that they would at least be the very last ones to leave. He didn’t really think he had any other choice but to agree.

“Yes, you’re right.”

Sergei walked back towards the rest of them and looked at Irina.

“Kendall just told me that you’re leaving too.” She nodded and he then looked at Katya. “I guess that means that we might as well leave too.” Katya nodded but then Sergei looked at Jack. “Unless, of course, you’d like us to stay?”

Jack was tempted to take Sergei up on his offer, because he didn’t feel like going to bed just yet, and especially because he didn’t want to be alone. However, more importantly he wanted Irina and the triplets to stay, but wouldn’t ask her to do that if she wasn’t comfortable around him. If he asked her to stay he felt that he’d be forcing her to do so, and he’d never want to force her to do anything. She’d been forced to do enough horrible and uncomfortable things in her life, and he would not be the one adding to that list. His mind went to Kashmir and the DVDs they’d watched there, but he shook his head to get rid of those images while also shaking his head at Sergei’s question.

“No, it’s fine. It’s been a long day, so I probably need my rest more than I realize.” Irina was happy to hear that and looked around at everyone.

“I have a few things I need to talk with the night nurse on duty about, so you can all say your goodnights while I’m gone and I’ll meet you by the cars.” Before anyone could say anything Irina had left.

Irina got back twenty minutes later. It had taken her a little while to find the nurse, who’d be in charge of Jack, but she hadn’t exactly hurried either. She didn’t want anyone around when she said goodnight to Jack. Having people possibly ask questions about her behavior was something she was not up for. That’s also why she had told everyone that she’d meet them by the cars and then left in a hurry.

She was glad to see Jack alone outside the room they’d been sitting in. She approached him slowly not wanting to make any sudden or fast moves that could endanger him.

“That took you a bit of time.”

“I had trouble finding the nurse.”

“Oh.”

There were a few moments of awkward silence.

“So, has everyone gone down?” He nodded.

“Yeah, they’re all waiting for you by the cars like you told them to.”

“Okay. Well, then I guess I shouldn’t keep them waiting any longer.”

“Yeah, I guess you shouldn’t keep them waiting. What time will you be here tomorrow?” She shrugged.

“I haven’t talked it over with the kids, but like I said they need to get back to their normal routines. That means that they also need to do some of the things they normally do like going to the playground, the carrousel and stuff like that.”

Jack wanted to beg her to come and be with him as early as possible, but also knew that she was right about the triplets. Even though they were managing just fine and were happy after everything they’d been through, he knew that they also needed to get back to doing things they did before the kidnapping in order for them to get completely passed and move on from what happened.

“Does that mean you won’t be here until some time in the afternoon?” Irina shrugged.

“I really don’t know. It depends on what we decide to do. But you shouldn’t expect us for breakfast. I think they need to have that at home for their first morning back.” Jack nodded reluctantly but didn’t let it show.

“Okay. I guess I’ll see you when I see you.”

“Yes.” Another few awkward moments of silence passed. “Well goodnight, Jack.”

“Goodnight Irina.” Irina walked away quickly and Jack waited until the elevator doors had closed before walking back to his room.

A few minutes later Katya heard Irina approaching and turned to look at her.

“I trust everything went as it should.” Irina smiled at her sister.

“Yes absolutely.” When she reached everyone, she looked at Sergei and Kendall. “I just realized I don’t have a car, so I’m assuming we can catch a ride with one of you.” Kendall nodded.

“You can catch a ride with me. With Katya driving with Sergei my car is the only one that has seatbelts for everyone.” He looked between Katya and Sergei. “That is if that’s alright with you?” They both nodded. “Okay. I assume I’ll be seeing the two of you tomorrow or in the coming days.” Katya was about to open her mouth, but he put a hand up stopping her. “Let me rephrase that.” He looked at Sergei. “I assume that I’ll be seeing you tomorrow or in the coming days.” He then looked at Katya. “I won’t assume anything with you.” She smirked at him.

“Well, I guess the old saying is wrong, because you can actually teach an old dog new tricks.” He rolled his eyes at her and looked at Irina.

“I’ll wait for you in the car.” She nodded and turned her attention to Katya when she spoke to her.

“I’ve been staying with Sergei while you’ve been gone and all my stuff is there. But if you don’t want to be alone tonight, I can go to Sergei’s and get my things and he can drop me off at your place. Or we can both stay with you, if you’d like.” Irina shook her head.

“No, there’s no need for you to go to Sergei’s and then drive over to my place. Besides, I’m fine. And I’m tired, so I’ll just be going straight to bed anyway.” Katya eyed her.

“Are you sure?” Irina smiled back at her.

“Yes, I’m absolutely sure.” Katya nodded but wasn’t sure she was completely convinced. However, she, more than anyone, knew not to push for the truth.

“Okay. Call me if you need anything and I’ll be right there.”

“Thank you for the offer. I’ll keep it in mind, but I know I won’t be needing it.” Katya nodded her understanding and they hugged goodbye.

When they were done Sergei, who’d been hugging the triplets goodbye, hugged Irina, and Katya hugged the triplets. When Irina was done she got into Kendall’s car and let the triplets have a few moments alone with Katya and Sergei.

“I hope you don’t mind, but when I heard you’d be staying at home I got in touch with a team of agents. They’re going to be keeping a lookout for any dangers outside your house. I know your alarm system is first class, and that you’re more than capable of defending yourself, but I just want to give you some extra protection in case of anything. I talked it over with Jack and he agreed. Besides, the agents won’t be noticeable.” Irina smiled at him.

“Thank you. I appreciate that. I think it’ll be good for the triplets to know that they’re completely safe and well protected.”

She couldn’t help but feel a bit relieved herself. She wasn’t really scared of possible dangers lurking around, and didn’t think that anything would happen if there were no agents looking out for them. But since Jack wasn’t in the house with them, she was glad to know that agents were posted outside her house.

She was about to ask about what was going on between Dixon and Chase, but didn’t get the chance since the triplets got in the car.

Kendall looked at them and when they were all buckled up, he smiled.

“Let’s get you home.”

When Irina saw her house again, she almost started to cry. Just a few weeks ago, she thought she’d never see this place again. However, she bit her lower lip and prevented her tears from falling and instead got out of the car along with everyone else and acted completely normal.

“Thank you for driving us home.” Kendall shook his head smiling at her.

“Don’t mention it. Is there anything I can do for you? I can stay if you want me to?” She smiled at him.

“Thank you, but that won’t be necessary. We’ll be perfectly fine.”

“Okay. But don’t hesitate to call me if you need anything. It doesn’t matter if it’s in the middle of the night. You just call me if there’s anything I can do for you.”

“Thank you. I’ll remember that.” They hugged goodbye and Kendall gave the triplets a big hug goodbye.

“I’ll see you three tomorrow. Goodnight.”

“Goodnight, uncle Kendall.”

“See you tomorrow.”

“And sleep tight.” He laughed at that.

“You too. Bye.” He got in his car and Irina and the triplets watched him leave until they couldn’t see him anymore.

Irina looked at the triplets.

“Well, here we are. Home sweet home.”

They went inside and ended up walking around for a bit downstairs in silence taking in the familiar surroundings. It felt good to be able to do that since just a few weeks ago all four of them thought they’d never see their home again. They ended up in the kitchen and Maddie saw a note on the refrigerator.

“It’s from Sydney and Nadia.” Irina took the note and read. As she read it, she smiled.

“It seems your sisters went grocery shopping and got us a few of the essentials.” She opened the refrigerator. “Do you want something to drink before going to bed?”

“I wouldn’t mind having a glass of orange juice, if there is any?” Irina smiled at Caitie.

“There’s plenty.”

“I’d also like some orange juice then.”

“Me too.”

“And I’ll have some as well, so four glasses of orange juice coming right up.”

They drank their juice mostly in silence, but it didn’t take them long to finish anyway. When Maddie had finished hers, she looked at her mother.

“Mommy, Caitie, Ethan, and I would like to sleep in the same bed tonight, if that’s alright?” Irina smiled lovingly at her children.

“Of course that’s alright.” Then she got a little concerned. “Are the three of you more scared and worried than you’re letting on?” All three shook their heads and answered simultaneously and reassuringly.

“No.” Maddie took the lead.

“No mommy, we’re not scared, worried, or anything like that. We’ve just been used to sleeping together for a long time now and it’s comforting. We won’t continue with that forever, but we’d just like to do it for a little while longer. At least until daddy gets home.” Irina smiled lovingly at them again and nodded.

“That’s understandable. But as long as you’re alright and it’s not because you’re covering up some deeper fear.” She looked at each of them for a few seconds to see if she could tell if they were being honest about their wellbeing.

“We’re alright, mommy. Honestly.” Irina nodded seeing that they were telling her the truth.

“I’m glad. The three of you are also welcome to snuggle with me.” The triplets eyed her.

“Are you scared or worried about something, mommy? Do you need us to snuggle with you?” Irina finished the last of her juice before answering Ethan.

“No sweetheart. I’m a big girl and I’m fine. I just wanted to let you know that if you wanted to snuggle that it would be alright with me.” The triplets nodded thinking that their mother was fine like she said.

“Okay.”

“How about we go to bed? I don’t think anyone put fresh sheets on the bed, so that’ll also take a while, which is why we might as well head upstairs now.” The triplets nodded.

“Good idea. But now that the three of us are sharing a bed, you only need to put fresh sheets on two beds instead of four beds.” Irina let out a small chuckle.

“Right you are. You go on up and I’ll just finish things down here.” They nodded and left the kitchen.

After putting away the glasses and taking one quick look around the house to make sure that everything was locked, Irina checked the alarm system twice. She thought she could wait until the next day to take the suitcases they brought home from India upstairs, and went up without them.

When she got upstairs she saw the triplets walking to the bathroom.

“We’re staying in my room, mommy.” Irina nodded at Caitie.

“Okay sweetheart. I’ll just go and put fresh sheets on your bed, then.” She went and did that, and then waited for the triplets to return. When they did and were under the covers Irina engulfed them in a tight hug. “I love you.” She gave each of them a kiss and looked at them in the eyes, smiling.

“I love you too, mommy.”

“I love you too, mommy.”

“And I love you too, mommy.”

“Now, if you at any time during the night want to talk to me about anything or just want to snuggle with me, you just come and wake me up. Okay?” All three nodded and answered simultaneously.

“Yes mommy.” She smiled at them.

“Good.” She gave them one more kiss before getting up to leave. “Goodnight sweethearts.” Again they answered her simultaneously.

“Goodnight mommy.” She turned off the lights and headed back to her own bedroom.

When she was inside her own bedroom, she closed the door and just stood there for a few moments without moving. She didn’t bother to turn on the lights and decided that she didn’t want to bother changing the sheets either. Knowing the way to the bathroom by heart, she didn’t bother turning on the lights and she didn’t turn on the lights in the bathroom either.

After leaving the bathroom she decided that she’d just sleep in the shirt that she’d last slept in and that she knew would be under the covers. She stripped out of her clothes and reached for her nightshirt as she pulled the covers away. But she could feel that she’d ended up getting Jack’s shirt instead. She put it up to her nose and took in the scent. There was only a faint smell of Jack’s scent left on the shirt, and she knew she should really put on a fresh shirt since it had been more than a month since he’d slept in it. But she didn’t care.

She didn’t care about clean sheets or a clean nightshirt. All she cared about was that they were finally completely home. And that’s when it once again hit her of how she could’ve lost everything, and she lost control of her emotions and started sobbing. She put the nightshirt on, got under the covers, and rolled onto Jack’s side of the bed and sobbed into his pillow. Like so many other nights in her life before this one, she cried herself to sleep.

TBC
 
That was a really great chapter.
Thank you very much. :blush: I'm glad that people are still reading since I haven't posted in such a long time. :smiley:
What is the deal with Irina?
The deal with Irina is the same as since Jack woke up. She's afraid to get close to him, because she thinks that she'll hurt him and endanger his recovery. She almost lost him, and although the doctor in India told her that Jack would be fine and that she can see that with her own eyes, she won't risk doing anything that, in her mind, can make her lose him. She doesn't want to be away from him, but at the same time she can't bring herself to watch him go through workouts that'll make him get stronger, because she fears that it'll only cause him pain, and she can't stand to see Jack in pain. She can't even stand to see him doing things on his own like getting out of bed, because she still feels it's too early for him to do that on his own. Though, she has nothing to be afraid of, she can't shake that feeling and it'll take a long time before she does and before they talk about what they went through.
Can't wait for more.

texasalias
I'm glad to hear it - thank you. I'll try not to wait a year before I update again. :LOL:

Thank you, texasalias. :smiley:
 
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