I love you. Forever.

Chapter 30: Come Back to Me

Ben’s POV

“She stabbed her attacker, Jay. My baby doll is fierce. She put up one hell of a fight from what the Police and dad’s investigation team have put together. They also believe there were two attackers due to there being 3 different types of blood at the scene. One being Becs. But damn Jordan. These crime scene photos are f*****g with my head. Dad received copies.” I tell Jordan over the phone. Dad had called to ask him to contact me after punching a hole in my bedroom wall when we got back from the ER. My anger is hard to control with each hour that passes.

“Holy s**t, Ben. I’m sorry this is happening. Rebecca will come out of this. She’s a tough girl.” Jordan tried to encourage. “You are okay?” He asked knowing the answer. “No, I’m not okay at all. I want to kill those bastards.” I breathed heavily into the phone feeling myself getting riled up again. “Ben, go work it off at the gym. Uncle Matt said his guys are on it. Your only job is to be there for your girl. She needs you. And I know you need her. If you do something dangerous and dumb like going after her attackers, you’re only hurting her and yourself. Please little cousin let the police and your dad handle this. I’m begging you on Rebecca’s behalf. I know how you can get. Control yourself. I will be there in a few days as soon as I tie up some loose ends here.” Jordan pleads with me. I don’t want to listen but I know I have too. He’s right.

“f**k, Jordan. I’m losing my s**t here. I can’t lose her.” I sigh heavily. “Ben, you’re not losing her. She is still here. You have to have faith that she will wake up and recover. This is scary f*****g s**t but you got to stay strong, man. Dad and Carrie send their best and wish her well. They started a prayer chain at their church. There are many people in her corner Ben. Now get rest and go to the gym before you see her. You need to work your s**t out and remain calm around her. I will be there soon.” Jordan encouraged. “Thanks brother. I will. See you soon.” I said before ending the call and dad walked into my room.

“The vet just called. They suggest that Maya gets surgery to repair her broken leg. They could just put a cast on and change it regularly but chances of her healing properly is 50/50.” Dad explained. “Have them do the surgery and I’ll pay for the bill.” I said laying down on my bed feeling a headache come on. “Its okay Ben, your mom already paid for the surgery over the phone.” Dad spoke softly. “Get some rest. I will call the school to tell them you won’t be there tomorrow and explain the situation.” He added. “Thanks dad.” I said quietly. He turned the light off and shut the door. I lay there staring at the ceiling most of the night.

Sleep finally comes as the sun rises and a dream over takes me.

“Come on Benny, catch me if you can.” I see Becs run across a field of wildflowers in her white linen dress. Her gorgeous red curls bouncing all over the place. That beautiful smile shining brightly. Her giggles filling the air. “Just wait until I catch you baby doll.” I call out. I run trying to catch up but she zigs when I zag. But I finally catch her as we gently fall and roll around in the flowers together. “I gotcha sweetness.” I hover over her as she smiles. “You have to help me Benny. I’m lost.” She says seriously. “You’re not lost Baby doll. You’re in my arms.” I coo in her ear. “Help me Benny. Only you can.” She whispers. I lift my face from her ear to look at her. Her beautiful flawless face slowly morphs into the bloodied and bruised face I saw last night.

I wake up in a cold sweat. “What the hell.” I whispered to myself.

…

I hit the gym hard.  I work out my anger and frustration on the punching bag. Each hit and each kick intensifies. All I see is red. I go hard for an hour straight until I could barely stand. I sit in the locker room until I regain some energy before meeting my parents back home to get ready to go to the hospital. This is going to have to be a daily routine, I already feel it.

“How is she today?” I ask the nurse as we walked into her ICU room. “The doctor will be in soon for rounds. He will update you.” She said kindly. “Can she have another blanket? This isn’t enough. Becs gets cold easily.” I ask sternly. The nurse nods and excuses herself.

I pull up the chair to her right side. I gently kiss her forehead before sitting and wrapping my hand around hers. “Good morning baby doll. We are all here to see you.” I say softly feeling the tears buildup in my eyes. The anger has subsided so the tears emerge. The longer I look at her the more tears that fall from my eyes. I feel my mom hug my neck and kiss my head as my dad rests his hand on my shoulder. No words are spoken as they allow me to shed my tears. I haven’t cried in front of my parents since I was a kid. The nurse quietly comes back in a few minutes later and I stand to help her cover my girl in another layer of blankets. These hospital blankets suck. I will bring her a warmer one from home. “Oh, your hand.” The nurse noticed my busted up knuckles from punching my wall. “It’s fine.” I say curtly adverting my attention to the doctor walking in. It’s an older doctor this time around. 

“Good morning everyone.” The doctor said politely. “I’m Dr. Mason Carte. I will be overseeing Miss Sampson’s care while she is in the ICU. Are you family?” He asked with a pleasant smile. I like this doctor. He is a gentle and compassionate soul. You can just tell from his aura. “We are friends with Rebecca’s mother. Our son is her boyfriend.” Dad spoke up shaking the doctor’s hand. “Oh yes, Lily Wright. We still have not been able to get into contact with Dr. Wright. But we will keep trying.” He assured. Just then the principal of our school knocked. I almost forgot dad called the school earlier this morning. “May I come in?” Mr. Kline asked. “Sure, I am just making my rounds and update everyone on Miss Sampson’s status. You are?” The doctor responded with another smile. “I am Ken Kline. I’m their Principal.” He answered referring to Becs and me. “Oh yes, come in.” The doctor stepped aside. As soon as Mr. Kline entered and laid his eyes on Becs’ small body his face dropped. “Oh God.” He said shocked covering his mouth. He wasn’t expecting what he saw. “I didn’t know she was…” He trailed off losing his words. “Its okay Ken. I didn’t give you all the details. She was attacked in her home during an apparent robbery. But this brave little girl fought back.” Dad said softly while lightly gliding his fingers in her hair in a fatherly way. “She made it to our house before she collapsed. We found her unconscious on our porch. All we could figure  was that she was in shock and ended up walking to our house in the rain storm.” Dad explained. Mr. Kline stood there in shock before looking over at me. My eyes were still red and watery. All he did was gently pat my back never saying anything. “This poor girl can’t catch a break.” The principal sighed warily. “She is a tough one. Her vitals are strong and her breathing is a lot better today. The brain bleed is slowly healing. I am hoping if she continues to improve to possibly reverse the medically induced coma and wake her up within the next 12-24 hours. Once she is awake, we will do further testing and check for any deficiencies.” Dr. Carte explained.

“Deficiencies?” I asked weakly. My voice cracked for the first time since I hit puberty. “Brain injuries are a tricky bunch. Best case scenario a patient wakes up and regains all faculties. With Rebecca being so young and healthy; her chances of recovery are high. But the other side of the coin is that her motor skills, speech, and mental capacity could be affected. We won’t know what side of the coin she in on until we reverse her coma. Continue to talk to her and hold her hand. If she responds to anyone it would be a loved one.” Dr. Carte clarified. My heart hurts. “Again, she is responding well. She is strong willed if her hair color has anything to do with.” The doctor chuckled softly. “I can tell you first hand that this young lady is.” Mr. Kline spoke up. “She’s just as fierce as she is compassionate.” I say in agreement to the principal. The doctor smiles at us before he moves on to the next patient.

“Well, Mr. Wilder. I will send Matthew Smith home with your schoolwork. I know you are ahead in your classes anyways. Please keep me updated with her status.” Mr. Kline said. Mom and dad walked with him out to the hall to give me time alone with my girl.

 “I’m here, no matter what, Becs.” I say softly caressing her uninjured cheek. “Come back to me baby. You’re my world.”

That evening, Matt stopped by with my schoolwork as his parents waited outside talking to my parents. “How is she?” Matt asked. He looked defeated seeing Becs in this condition. “The doctor said she is strong and is healing. He will try to wake her up tomorrow.” I said tiredly. “That’s good.” Matt said with a small smile. You could tell he’s been crying too. His eyes are red and puffy. “I brought a book to read to her if that’s okay.” Matt perked up showing me the book. “Yes, please. The doctor said that kind of thing is good for her.” I said trying to force a smile. Matt sat on the other side of the bed and began reading Charlottes Webb, the book he read to her when they were younger. Now that put a genuine smile on my face. Both of our parents slipped in quietly as Matt read to her for an hour. He used different voices for each character and brought the story alive putting smiles on all of our faces. This kid is truly the best of all of us.

…

Its been 24 hours. Today is the day they hope to wake my world up. And I am on edge. Jordan came in late last night to be there for me. I barely slept. The 2 hours I did sleep, I had the same dream again of Becs’ asking for help. It felt so real when she was in my arms during the dream only to wake up completely alone. I felt so empty. I head downstairs to find mom cooking breakfast. She has cried on and off since finding Becs.

“Oh Ben, why are you up this early?” Mom said startled when I sat at the island bar. She quickly tried to hide her tears.  “Can’t sleep. If I do, I dream and it f***s with my head.” I sigh rubbing my face with my hands. I see my mom shutter at my language but she doesn’t chastise me, letting it slide. “I’m sorry my precious boy. We all just need to stay positive. Our sweet Rebecca will wake up.” Mom comforted. “I know mom. Its just that this whole situation is messed up. Has dad received any  more information about the attackers?” I ask hoping that he got more news since last night.

“Not yet, little cousin.” Jordan said walking into the kitchen groggily. “Wow you look like shit.” He added looking at me up and down. “Gee, thanks Jay.” I snort.

“You’re way to tense Ben. Come on, let’s spar in your basement instead of going to the gym before breakfast. Then pull yourself together. I don’t think seeing your haggard mug would do Rebecca any good.” Jordan offered patting me on the shoulder. I just nod and follow him to the basement. Dad and I are slowly making it into a gym. Luckily we have sparring equipment and some mats already.

We’ve been at it for 45 minutes now. “Come on Ben, lay everything out on the mat. I can take it.” Jordan encourages as I make my move. I leave out a chesty growl as I attack actually taking Jordan to the ground. “Feel better?” He asks as we both try to catch out breaths. I just nod trying to control my breathing. “I really hate that you two do this.” Mom said watching us from the steps with dad. “Come and eat before either one of you gets hurt.” She said sternly. “Oh Marie, they know what they’re doing.” Dad chuckles softly. “That was a good move Ben. Wonder who taught you that.” Dad said proudly knowing full well that was his move he taught the both of us. “Don’t encourage them Matthew.” Mom pouted. He just smiles as the turn to go back upstairs.

“Ben, she will be okay.” Jordan said quietly as he got up and offered me a hand up. “I know Jay. I just wish I could take away all her pain. I would trade places with her in an instant.” I admit willingly. “I know you would little cousin. Let’s go eat and wake up your girl.” Jordan said before heading up the steps with me on his heels.

We all ate breakfast quickly and went our separate ways to get ready. All eager to get to the hospital. I just hate waiting for visiting hours to roll around. Especially since the ICU is more restrictive than the rest of the hospital.

…

“I’ll wait outside, you three head in.” Jordan said not wanting to crowd the room. He gave me a quick hug for encouragement before we walked in. Dr. Carte and the anesthesiologist were already in there getting ready to wake Becs up. “Good morning everyone. We are still prepping for the reversal. You have a minutes to visit before I’ll have you wait in the hall.” He smiled. “Can I stay?” I ask hoping he allows it. “I need to be here for every step of the way.” They doctors look at each other and nod. “Of course, but you will need to stand back. Be aware, she may wake up right away or she may not. She will still intubated until them.” Dr. Carte explained. “I understand.” I state right before I lean in and kiss her forehead and gently squeeze her hand before I back up into the corner. Mom and dad stepped out with Jordan to wait.

“Okay, Miss Sampson let’s get you awake.” Dr. Carte said as the anesthesiologist started the reversal.

…

Two long ass days and she’s still not awake. Mom and dad went with Jordan to get lunch. I refuse to leave her side. Matt has come in the last two evenings to read to her. And still no word from her mom or that bastard, Tim. I haven’t slept really and I’m haunted by the same dream when I do sleep.

“Rebecca Everly Sampson. You got to wake up my love. I miss your voice. I miss you.” I said raising her hand to my lips. “Maya’s surgery went well and now she’s healing. Its your turn baby doll.” I plead softly. I kiss her cheek and then her forehead and gently play with her curls with my fingers. “Open your beautiful hazel eyes for me, sweetness.” Just as I call her sweetness, my hopes were fulfilled. Her eyes fluttered opened. My heart skipped a beat. There was a moment of complete calmness before her eyes focused and she looked around disoriented. She started groaning and messing with the tube in her mouth until I gently took her hands. “Baby doll, its okay.” I coo trying to calm her down. “Jordan, go get the doctor. She’s awake.” I call out. Jordan was just outside talking on his phone. “You got it.” He called back happily. Tears were streaming down her cheeks. “Hey Becs. The doctor is coming. Just relax for me.” I say softly still holding her hands. She’s squeezing my hands tight. She’s scared. She meets my eyes but all I see is complete confusion. “Miss Sampson, glad you decided to join us.” Dr. Carte said with smile. A nurse and Jordan walked in behind him. He quickly looks over her vitals before prepping to extubate Becs. “Okay Rebecca, we are going to get that annoying tube out.” He said cheerfully. He explained what he was going to do and what he needed Becs to do during this process. “Okay, the nurse will help you sit up.” The Doctor nodded at me to step away, but my girl refused to let go of my hand as more tears flowed on her part. “Okay, Its okay Rebecca. He will stay right beside you.” He reassured. “Ben, help her sit up and support her back. The nurse will be right beside to assist in any way and she also has the oxygen ready. I nod and then look at Becs giving her my classic smile and a wink. “You got this my love. Ready?” She nods letting the doctor know to proceed. I see Jordan turning is head away from the corner of my eye. He never did well with type of stuff.

The tube is out and Becs had a coughing fit before they got the oxygen mask on her. Once she laid back down and relaxed she let go of my hand. I stepped back as the doctor examined her again as she continued taking in the oxygen with deep breaths. She is still looking around in confusion. She seems lost for some reason. “Everything looks good physically. Are you in any pain?” Dr. Carte asks. “A little.” Her voice was so small and hoarse. “Can you tell me where?” The doctor asked. “Head, side and throat.” She answered. “That’s all normal. We will get some pain meds to help. You had a head injury as well as a few broken ribs. The sore throat is normal after having a tube in.” He explained calmly. My heart is so happy, I feel Jordan holding my shoulder. But Becs still looks lost. I see her eyes wonder the room looking at each of us; the doctor, the nurse, Jordan and then lingering on me for a few moments. “I..I..don’t know…”She trailed off as tears escaped her eyes again. The doctor looked at her. “What don’t you know.” Dr. Carte asked for clarification. “Anyone.” She whispered. A sharp pain pierced my heart. “Oh my God.” I whisper to myself. Jordan heard me and squeezed my shoulder that his hand was still resting on. Dr. Carte expression never changed. He still looked pleasant and calm. “Can you tell me your name?” He asks with a kind smile. She shook her head and said “No.” f**k.

“That’s okay. How about the town you’re from?” He asked another question. She shook her head no. This can’t be happening. “No problem, how about the month?” Dr. Carte smiled not looking rattled at all. I’m losing my s**t. Its taking everything I have to remain calm. “No.” She said starting to cry. I slowly walk towards her again and take her hand. “Its okay sweetheart. You’re name is Rebecca.” I coo softly. “Rebecca, Just relax. Everything is normal. We need to step outside for a minute. Okay? We will be right back. The nurse is right here.” The doctor smiled. Meanwhile, I’m trying not to vomit. “I’ll stay with her too.” Jordan whispered and I nodded. I stepped out finding my parents waiting outside for the update. “First off, her vitals look good. We will do another follow up MRI and CT Scan. Now as your son just witnessed, Rebecca seems to have amnesia. She doesn’t remember anything including her name.” He started to explain until my mom burst out into tears. My dad’s faced dropped and I’m just in the twilight zone. “Most cases its only temporary. She needs time and for everyone to be patient with her. She should regain most of her memories. But it is likely she won’t remember the attack since it was traumatic. But that might be for the best. We will do further testing. Be calm around her. She will get agitated easily. I would only have a visitor or 2 at a time. She made it through the hard part. Now we all just need to support her.” He said giving us all a reassuring smile.

…

Meanwhile in the ICU room:

Jordan’s POV

God she looks awful. No wonder Ben was reacting the way he was. I really can’t blame him. Who the hell could hurt this sweet little girl. My heart f*****g broke for her and Ben when she said she didn’t remember anything. I felt Ben’s body drain when she said she didn’t know anyone in the room. f**k that had to hurt him. I can only imagine how she’s feeling. Probably so alone and lost in a haze. What a f*****g messed up life this girl has endured so far.

The nurse was checking Rebecca’s bandages and cleaning her facial wounds. She waved me closer to her. I sat beside her as she took my hand. “Are you my family?” She asked looking up at me. I feel my heart twist painfully. “I’m not, Rebecca. I’m a friend.” I say softly. God I am not good in these situations. “Where’s the boy?” She asked. The boy? Oh she must mean Ben. “Ben is right outside talking to the doctor.” I answered. “Want me to get him?” I ask with a smile. “Ben.” She whispered to herself before nodding at me. She let go of my hand so I could get him.

“Hey Ben, she’s asking for the boy.” I grin at him. She has to feel some sort of connection to him.

…

Ben’s POV

 I smile back at Jordan after hearing that. God please help her remember me. “Go to her Ben, we will continue here.” Dad said as we were still talking to the doctor. Jordan stayed with them giving us privacy. I walk in and sat next to her bed taking her hand. The nurse was just finishing her wound care. Becs looks exhausted. “You’re the boy from my dream.” She said softly. Her voice still raspy. “What was your dream?” I ask searching her eyes. “We were somewhere with a lot of flowers and you said you would help me.” She explained tiredly. Holy s**t! Did we have the same dream???

“Yes, I will help with whatever you need baby doll.” I say as I caress her cheek. She closed her eyes and melted into my touch. God I hope and pray she remembers. She opens her eyes again but they are heavy. “Go to sleep baby. I will be right here when you wake up. Rest your eyes.” I say softly as I see her nod lightly. “I feel safe with you.” She whispers as she drifts to sleep.