The Never Ending Call

Title: The Never Ending Call 15/?
Author: Kim Riley a.k.a. MYSTIC
Disclaimer: The characters belong to the producers of Emergency. Also, the character Mike Stoker is in no relation to the real one. Since they are no longer using them I’ve decided to take our boys out of the ‘closet’ and let them play and be happy. Enjoy.
Summary: What should have been a simple response to an emergency turns into what will seem a never ending nightmare.
Warnings: This is an Au story, also language, violence, abuse, attempted rape (I will not be graphic), and death (though not of E characters)
Rating: NC-17 (see warnings and m/m sex)
Pairing: John/Roy (Emergency fandom)
Archived: at (or will be archived at) http://www.geocities.com/mysticmcknight/KimRstorylist.html
If you want to archive it, please do, just let me know.
Feedback: Please! Mysticmcknight@hotmail.com

"The Never Ending Call"

"Anything," Argentine asked as he saw Roy come up to get some air. He had promised safe passage, and since his boat could not travel the shallower river that lead to Mexico City, he and several of his crew traveled with the doctor and his team, while the rest of his men, under Meir, remained behind. Unknown to Roy and Johnny, Meir was given strict orders…take out Chavez. The crew was more than happy with those orders, as Johnny had quickly become one of them. Of the two and half days journey, they only had half a day left, and though the doctor had treated Johnny's welts and previous grace to the temple, said Johnny was find physically, he barely stirred. He'd wake, ask to go home and then go back to sleep. Roy had to bully him, push him, to eat or drink and even then it was little.

"No," Roy sighed in frustration. "He's still withdrawn…I don't know what to do or say…" Roy leaned his elbows on the ships railing and then placed his face in his hands. "I hate feeling this helpless…I just want to do something …anything…"

Argentine had been giving this matter some thought and had an idea, "anything?"

Roy looked up at the man that had in his own way adopted Johnny as his, with suspicion, but no fear. "What did you have in mind?"

"I have an idea…it's a long shot, but…since lies would be bad, it would be best to keep it real…" Argentine pulled out a cigar. "It would mean taking a risk."

"I just said I'd do anything for him, you know that was not a figure of speech."

"Very well, follow me." Argentine said, leading Roy farther forward on the boat.


**********

"Johnny, Mihijo," Argentine called out firmly, physically shaking the man. Seeing Johnny's sluggish eyes open he continued, "Roy has been injured, we need your help."

It was slow, as the mind tried to process what was being said, "What?"

"I said, 'Roy' has been hurt, he needs you," Argentine said firmly, his eyes serious, "Now!" It took great willpower not to smile as he noticed the sudden life spark in Johnny's dark eyes "Come," he ordered, tossing Johnny some clothes and helped him get dressed, though minimally. He then stormed out the door, onalf alf looking over his shoulder knowing Johnny would follow.

The Colonel led Johnny up a level into the kitchen area where Roy was sitting with a dish towel on his arm. He stepped aside…or Johnny would have knocked him over as he ran passed. The smile came easily this time; Johnny was once more among the living. It was at the price of a scare…but one both he and Roy could live with. Roy had to be hurt…faking it would have caused trust issues. It made sense that a cut in the kitchen could happen. It would take time for Johnny to recall that there was a doctor on board, but that was okay; he was up and about.

"Roy," Johnny exclaimed with great concern and moved to take a look at the cut. It wasn't too deep, but would need to be cleaned and perhaps a stitch or two. He looked around and didn't have to ask, as Rico offered him the first aid kit. "What happened?"

Roy couldn't help but smile, regardless of the pain of the cut; Johnny was up and his eyes sparked with life. They still seemed a bit dull, compared to before, but Roy now had hope that his love would bounce back after all. "Oh, just being stupid," he replied, for he would not mention, now, if ever, that it was staged. It was Argentine that banked that Johnny's love for Roy would push him out of bed and Roy agreed…and it worked. "I'm just glad you’re here to take care of it," he whispered softly.

"Why wouldn't I be," Johnny replied, shaking his head. Once the area cleaned up and bandaged, Johnny had a chance to look around. "Roy…where are we?" He didn't recall this place.

"Johnny, what's the last thing you remember," Roy asked concern for his love. He'd seen this too in Nam', full denial of the incident, but it never fully stayed away.

"We treated Teresa…I was getting us some food…" he shook his head; he paled.

Roy grabbed Johnny and had him sit on the table next to him, "Its okay, Johnny. It's over. Were on a boat to Mexico City, we'll be there in an hour, and then off to the American Embassy and home…"

"No…" Johnny said softly.

"No, what," Roy asked, concern filling him again.

"No, I can't go home," Johnny replied, his eyes once again looking dull, and a bit distant.

"Why not?"

"Because Roy, I murdered two people…" Johnny began.

"You did no such thing," Argentine growled. "You protected yourself and those women and children. They would have killed them all had you not stopped them, Mihijo. I know you will never believe it, but you saved their lives and yours," he added firmly. "Besides, there are no bodies and no evidence, it is all gone," he added as he moved up to the young man that snuck into his heart. "Go home, Mihijo. Go home and live freely. This is what you need to do, yes?"

Johnny looked at Argentine with pained eyes, "I wish my own father was as understanding as you are," he half laughed half sobbed. He then wiped his eyes, he would not cry. He then looked at the three men around him, mostly at Argentine and Roy and shook his head yes, "home does sound good." He then looked at the strange man that was more of a father in the three weeks he'd known him than his own estranged father had been all his life. "I will miss you," he stated honestly.

"As I, Mihijo, but…we can write," he said offering a piece of paper. "I have your address already…your license was quiet helpful," he joked…partly. He had checked out both Roy and Johnny's wallets and items in the beginning; he was an accomplished pickpocket; having started early on the streets of his village. He was just kind enough to put them back…intact…mostly, a few dollars short, but intact none the less.

"Okay," Johnny grinned, "But no shop talk…get it?"

Roy and Carlos laughed, for it was good seeing the light return in Johnny's eyes, though still fighting for full brightness. Plus, it wouldn't be a good idea'wr'write' about Argentine and his crew's exploits…no not a good idea at all. "Agreed, no shop talk from me, from you it is well. Now, get ready, you leave soon," he ordered and watched Johnny leave and then turned to Roy. "He's not over it, just taking his first steps…yes?" He wanted to see if Roy knew what was happening.

"I know, andll bll be there," he promised. "Now I better go see the doc before we depart."

"Might be a good idea," Argentine replied, lighting up a cigar; today was a good day.

"Hey, what's keeping you, Pally," Johnny called out, having backtracked. "Come on…we're going home!"

********

"Can you tell us anything about the people who brought you here," Agent Williams asked, as he sat at a table, looking at the two men he had been assigned to locate, having shown up on the Embassy steps safe…and mostly sound. The dark haired one looked like he had gone through a hell, though both men looked like they went through a war zone.

"Not really," Johnny replied as easily as he could. "Can we go now? We haven't had a decent shower in ages," he grumbled. He knew he and Roy would be asked about what happened, but this felt like the third degree. They had shared what they knew of the men who robbed the bank. They didn't mention about Tony and Marco being dead or the rest of the information Carlos gathered. He had decided it would be best to send it 'anonymously' so not to be tied to either him or Roy. They mentioned people who helped then, but skimmed over names, using first names of the crew, but never a hint to Argentine.

"We'd also like to call back home and let them know we're okay," Roy jumped in, sounding more annoyed and protective of his partner; he was. Johnny didn't need this and neither did he. They didn't know where the diamonds or the money was, so why question them about it. He was also annoyed that Johnny refused to give the key up and wouldn't explain why. This was also not what he expected when he got to the embassy; he expected compassion and a bed and bath, not an interrogation.

Agent Williams gestured for them to hold on a moment and then left the room, and entered the room next door where Agent Keller of the FBI stood watching. "Well?"

"They're hiding something, that's for sure, but I don't think they have a clue about the stolen money or diamonds nor do I think they were involved in any manner than is obvious."

"What do you think they're hiding," Williams asked, looking at the two men via the two way mirror. He could see Roy soothingly rubbing Johnny's shoulder and eyeing the mirror; he knew they were in here.

"Don't know, but Roy is extremely protective of his partner. By some of truisruises and the dull look in his eyes, John Gage had it rough…perhaps…" he sighed. "They don't want us to know what happened in detail to him," Keller stated and looked at Williams, seeing if he understood.

"You mean raped," Williams asked, seeing if that was the case.

"Something happened, that's for sure and the withdrawn look, and a few other injuries, along with Roy's over protectiveness, does suggest it."

"Man," Williams swore. After a long moment, "I don't think you'll get your guys today and I think these two…should be sent home."

"I tend to agree with you," Keller nodded. "I suggest a single large room with double beds, I doubt DeSoto will allow Gage to be alone that long…do you?"

"Not likely, not if it's what you say," Williams agreed. "I'll also arrange for them to call the states…"

"Monitored of course," Keller replied, still watching the two men. He knew something was up between them and would find out sooner or later. But for now, he could afford to be compassionate. Roy DeSoto and John Gage were his only real link to catching the scum that robbed the bank and killed two men; kidnapping these men too.

"Of course," Williams agreed and left to make arrangements and then let the two paramedics know.

"By the way, you owe me ten bucks…the arrived via Manzanillo, just like that Paramedic kid said," Keller grinned, and then beamed with delight as he collected his money; today was shaping up to be a good day.

************

It was near dinner time and Mike was cooking his fried chicken; he couldn't bring himself to make spaghetti as it reminded him and the guys of Roy and Johnny, being it was what he had served on the day they were taken. That had been almost three weeks ago, and except for the one phone call to Rampart there had been no word. Mike was glad that the department was looking out for their wayward sheep, even if they were not present to know it. Roy's last check was sent to Joann and an official from the department went with her to the bank so it could be cashed. As for Johnny and his bills, Mike did what he could. He hated digging through Johnny's things, but was pleased, though amazed, that Johnny was very organized in this matter. Most of the business understood the situation and said they would defer payment and see that no interest or late charges given until it was either paid or… Mike shook his head, he would keep faith that his friends would return safely. Johnny's landlord however was another matter all together; the guy was a big jerk! He wanted his rent or Johnny had to move out and his stuff confiscated; he'd been ripped off before, and didn't care when the department contacted him directly…he wanted his rent. Mike was ready to take up a collection, but the Chief and the Captain went to bat with the financial department and in no time a check was made out to the landlord, not just for the months rent, but the next two. Payments would come out of Gage's salary, for they were sure it was only a matter of time he'd be back.

Mike was pleased and didn't think Johnny would mind, after all it kept a roof over his head, but he didn't doubt that if needed, he'd have gotten the money. He was sure of one thing however, once Johnny was back and settled he'd have to push the guy to find a better location and a better landlord.

"Dinner," he shouted, finishing up the last touched, and making sure the stove was off and the hot oil safely put aside. He watched as the guys shuffled in, and suppressed a sigh at seeing Brice and Newman, who were temporarily assigned to A-shift until Johnny and Roy's return. They were okay, Newman a lot like Roy and Brice…well, he was okay. He walked over to the table and placed down the chicken when the main phone rang, "I'll get it," he told everyone, watching the men grab up his cooking with zeal. He kept an extra piece for himself…just in case.

"Station 51, Fire Fighter Mike Stoker speaking," Mike answered the phone.

"Mike, its Johnny."

Mike stood straighter, his face reflecting the shock and joy at hearing his friend's voice. "JOHNNY," he shouted with excitement and turned to the others. "It's Johnny!" Suddenly he was surrounded by the fellows.

"Where is he, is he alright," Hank demanded.

"Is Roy okay," Marco asked.

"When is he coming back," Chet questioned.

"Hold on I can't hear him," Mike growled and then turned back to the voice on the phone. "I'm sorry, Johnny, can you repeat that, I didn't hear it…had some yapping in my ear."

The sound of a soft chuckle filtered back over the line, as Mike held the phone outward so everyone could hear. "Tell the guys that Roy and I are fine. We're at the Embassy in Mexico City. They say we should be back in LA tomorrow or the next day, but are not saying which airport, something about reporters."

"You and Roy's story made headline news," Chet shouted out.

"Well, dealing with the press is the last thing either of us wants," Johnny replied sounding tired. "So you know, Roy is on another phone with Joann now, so all you have to do is call anyone else you think might be interested…but please, not the press, Chet."

Chet was worried, Johnny didn't sound like himself; he sounded worn and weary and wondered what happened. "No problem, Johnny."

"I don't want to sound ungrateful, for I know how worried you guys must have been, but…no parties…we just…" the heavy sigh was deep and loud, "We just need some time, if that's okay?"

"Sure, John, no worried," Mike replied. "I've been looking after you place, all is well so don't sweat the small stuff."

"Thanks Mike. I…" there was a long pause, "I'm sure everything will be fine, though it might be awhile before we return to work…"

"You okay, Johnny, you sound…stressed," Marco asked, and could see that everyone had picked up on it.

"Just tired," Johnny lied. "I going to grab a shower; hadn't had one in a while," he said, attempting to lighten the conversation, "and take advantage of this bed. Thanks again for everything, just know Roy and I are 'fine' and we'll be home real soon, okay?"

"Okay," most of the men replied.

"Can you let us know when you’re back in the city," Hank asked, wanting like the rest to be 'sure' Johnny and Roy were fine, with his own eyes.

"Like I said, tomorrow of the next day, not sure yet, but if I can, I'll call," Johnny replied, "I'd better go, don't want to dirty the sheets," he joked. "We'll be home soon, bye. Oh…tell Brice…he was right. Bye."

"Bye," most of them said, but the line had already disconnected. Mike hung up the phone. "Was it me or something was not right," Mike asked his fellow co-workers.

"And what did he mean about Brice being right," Chet asked, looking at the annoying man he had to tolerate this past three weeks.

"You are right, Mike. Johnny did not sound right…exhausted and worn. I do not think they had an easy time of it," Marco nodded.

"Well, they'll be home soon," Hank grinned. "I'm sure a few days off, they'll be okay. Come on, dinner is getting cold."

"I'm going to call Rampart," Brice announced moving to he phone. "They notified us when Roy called, it is the least we can do is tell them that they'll be home soon."

"No problem, pal, you can use my office," Hank replied taking his seat, feeling a lot better knowing Roy and Johnny were safe and soon to be back where they belonged. "Let's dig in," he suggested, for he knew meals didn't always stay uninterrupted…and ten minutes later, he was proven right.

*****
**

Johnny hung up the phone and sat there for a minute. It felt…weird talking to the guys again. He got up and headed to the bathroom and noticed in other room Roy was just sitting by the phone staring. "You okay," he asked, moving passed the bathroom to stand by his lover.

"Just trying to figure out what to say," Roy replied, reaching up and grabbing his lover gently and pulling him into his lap and hugged him.

"Hello works for an opener," Johnny teased lightly. His humor came in spurts, and it was not as bright as before, but it was still there, as Johnny was trying to make his way out of the darkness that still lingered within.

Roy sighed and smiled, he loved this man so much. "Smart ass," he teased and kissed his love tenderly. "What are you going to do while I'm on the phone," he asked, while carding his fingers through his love's dark hair.

"Shower and bed, I'm kind of beat," Johnny replied, snuggling into Roy's arms. "The guys were on, so I got to talk to them. I asked them not to throw us a party…well, not right way," he yawned. "Mike's been looking after my stuff…kept it short."

Roy was still worried about Johnny, it was only this afternoon that he had come out of his shell and was concerned that he might go back in. He didn't want that too happen, but was unsure what to do. He did know that it would be a good idea of both of them got counseling, as this was not a walk in the park. He was even sure the department would pay for it. "You better get in there before you fall asleep here," Roy kissed Johnny's temple, noting the now tiny stitches where the bullet from the plan had hit him. The doctor said it would leave less of a scar if he did it, and Johnny was too out of it to mind. "Just be careful of your stitches, okay?"

"Yes, mom," Johnny teased lightly and got up and made his way to the bathroom and listened as he got the shower ready. He could hear Roy dial out and give his number, then silence.

"Jo, it's me…Roy."

Johnny remained just out of sight, but the need to listen was strong for some reason.

"I'm fine…honest. Jo – please don’t cry – I'm fine…"

Johnny realized that on second thought he 'didn't' want to hear this and went into the bathroom, closed the door and got into the shower. He let the water run over him, but he found no comfort in it. It had been a nice dream, but a dream none the less. Roy would return to his family and Johnny...he didn't know what he would return too. He suddenly felt beyond tired as he slid down the wall and sat in the shower trying to make sense of his world or what was left of it.

****End of Part fifteen****