Thanks to everyone..you guys are the best…

and K…thanks for your help. you have the most wonderful heart I have ever known.

Now for everyone’s favorite words…grab whatever & enjoy.


Chapter 21

Irwin stood there in shock. He didnt know what to say. He looked across to Dana and realized that he never truly knew his daughter. Finally, a single word came from his mouth.

Hi.

Danas head never hung. She never looked away from her dad once Holli had blown her cover. She just stared, hoping against hope that he would say something, anything and he did and she smiled her sheepish Dana smile.

Holli went about her business, checking monitors, taking temperatures, butting in. So wheres that lovely girl that was with you last night?

Dana swallowed hard. She is out in the waiting room with my brother.

Excuse me. Irwin brushed past Dana out the door.

Everything ok?

Yeah my dad is just going through a lot right now. Dana didnt dare tell Holli the whole story. Ill be back in a bit. I need to talk to him.

With that, Dana turned and tried to catch her dad. She saw the entrance doors close as she reached the button that opened them. Once she had escaped their confinement, there he stood, back against the wall, head in his hand.

Dad? Dana approached with caution. She didnt know what he was thinking or what he may do. Are you ok?

As she reached out her hand to try and comfort him, Irwin flinched away from the touch. His eyes turned to her and she could see the torment he was going through, the tears in his eyes.

No Dana I am not ok. My wife is laying in there hooked up to machines andand Irwin was trying to think of how to say what he was feeling.

Dana finished his thought for him, And your daughter just told you she is a *****.

With that last word, a single tear escaped Irwins right eye.

Dad, this is killing me more than you know. You guys have always been there for me no matter what. And now, I feel lost because you have shut me out. Dana took a step closer. I know that this is not the time or place for this conversation, but please know, my lifestyle has nothing to do with you or mom, it has to do with me and the way I feel. I never wanted to hurt you, that is why I waited until the very last possible second to tell you. I love you daddy.

With that Dana wrapped her arms around Irwin and gave him a hug. It was ok that he didnt return it, she knew that he would come around and be able to take his little girl in his arms again one day. As she let go, she turned and began to walk to the waiting area. As her eyes began to look away from the floor, she saw Howie and Lara standing in the doorway.

Are you ok baby? Lara greeted her with outstretched, welcoming arms.

Dana didnt hesitate to take Lara up on her offer of a hug. Ill be fine. She whispered into Laras neck. The tears that had formed in Danas eyes, now wet Laras neck.

I turned around and you were gone. Did something happen?

Yeah, it did. I dont know what, but something did. Dana lifted her head and now looked into the beautiful blue eyes before her. I just hope that he can look past all this one day and see what a wonderful person you are and why I love you so much.

The hug became tighter, as both now buried their faces in the others neck.

I love you too Dana.

Howie went to see if his father was ok, he knew Dana had Lara to take care of her. As he approached his dad, he saw him look up. Howie saw shock and amazement come over his face as Irwin looked through him and down the hall. Howie looked over his shoulder to see his sister and her lover in their embrace.

Dad, you ok? Howie placed his hand on Irwins arm.

Huh? The touch seemed to snap Irwin out of his own little world. What?

I asked if you were ok. Me and Lara saw you two talking. Is everything ok?

I dont know. I just dont know. Irwin looked down at his son and then back to Dana and Lara. I dont know anything anymore. With that, Irwin walked away from his son and towards two people he didnt understand.

Umm, excuse me.

Both Dana and Lara jumped at the interruption. Dana quickly wiped the tears that stained her face and just looked at her father, her left never leaving Laras waist.

May I speak with you?

Ill leave you two Lara didnt get to finish her sentence.

No, I need to speak to the both of you. Irwin now looked at Lara.

A feeling of dread came over the both of them. Neither Dana nor Lara knew what to expect. Was he going to ask them not to come around him anymore. Was he going to tell them that he thought their lifestyle was wrong and would never agree with it. What?

Lets go in here. Everyone seems to have gone in to see their family and the waiting room is pretty much empty. Irwin extended his arm, allowing the ladies in before him. He had always been a gentleman, no matter what was going on.

He was right. There was only one person left in there and she was asleep in one of the loungers. The only other thing left in there was the food that Dana and Lara had brought.

Lara and I brought some dinner for you and Howie. We didnt know if you had eaten or not. Dana thought he may take it as some sort of peace offering.

Im not hungry right now. But thank you. Irwin motioned for the women before him to sit down, Please.

As they sat down, their hands instinctively found each other. Irwin noticed this, it reminded of how he would take hold of Sharons hand as they sat down without even thinking.

I need to say something. Lumps formed in everyones throat. I have seen some things earlier and have been made to think about some decisions that I have made. The words became thicker in his throat as he began to get more personal. I saw you two this morning in the room.

Dana and Lara looked at each other, wondering what he had seen. Their eyes searched the others for any possible answer.

I saw how you supported my daughter this morning, His attention now on Lara, and I have just seen it again out in the hall. Irwin took a deep breath and looked to the ceiling as if he was asking for help. I dont agree with this, his attention now back to the both of them, I dont know if I ever will.

Dad Dana wanted to say something.

Please let me finish.

Dana felt 10 years old again, being admonished for interrupting a conversation between her father and someone else.

What I was going to say is that I know that you two care a great deal for one another. It shows all too brightly. I saw it this morning in the room, in the hall out there and just a second ago when you sat down, when you hands reached for the others and found it almost immediately like you knew right where it was.

Tears began to form in the two womens eyes as they glanced towards one another. They both knew that he was right. It was instinct that made them reach for one another, whether it be for a hug or just to hold one anothers hand.

What I really want to say is when that young man told me that he would pray that I forgive you for whatever you had done Dana, I realized that you hadnt done anything. I had. I know that you think that I hate you, that I want nothing to do with you anymore. Well, that is not true. I dont hate you, you are my daughter. Irwin sat on the other side of Dana and took her other hand. I just dont understand your choice and I dont know if I ever will. Irwin took another deep long breath before continuing. Right now I know that we need to come together to give your mother strength.

Mixed tears fell down Danas face. She didnt know what the future would hold for her and her dad, but right now, he seemed to be offering her an olive branch. For the first time, she let go of Laras hand and hugged her dad, this time, it was reciprocated. They both began to let out their feelings as they held each other for the first time since that fateful day that Dana came out to her family.

Dana didnt want to push her luck. So she didnt say anything about what her father had just said. She just hoped that one day he would truly understand that it isnt the gender of the person that you love, it is their heart and soul.

As they let each other go, Irwin looked over to Lara. You do care for her dont you?

Yes sir. A twinkle formed in Laras eyes as she moved her eyes towards Danas, More than I ever thought possible. A smile spread across both their faces as Dana and Lara looked into each others eyes. From the first moment I saw her, I knew that she was a wonderful person and that she had to have a wonderful family.

The moment the three were sharing was broken up by the doctor.

Im sorry to interrupt you all, but I thought you would like to know that we are going to go on and try to bring your wife out of the induced coma. Irwin stood as the doctor continued. We are hoping that she will wake up by this time tomorrow. All of her vitals have been improving and there doesnt seem to be anymore bleeding on her brain.

Thats wonderful news. Irwin shook the doctors hand.

Well I will leave you to your dinner. It smells wonderful and I will see you tomorrow. I should be here the whole day, or at least in the hospital. I want to be around to keep a close eye on this. The doctor let go of Irwins hand and left the waiting area as Howie was coming back in.

Whats going on, is mom ok? Howie sounded worried.

Yes, the doctor said they were going to start to bring her out of the coma. She is doing good. Irwin put a reassuring hand on Howies shoulder.

SssheewI thought something was wrong.

No, everything is going to be ok. Dana shot her brother a look, telling him that even their talk had been somewhat positive.

Well, how about we eat this food before it gets any colder. Irwin had a renewed sense of calm about him.

They all sat down and began to eat. They ate in silence, going over what had happened. Dana hadnt felt this good since her mother had told her that she still loved her. She just hoped that she would again get to tell her mother those same words.

The night dragged on as visiting hours would end and then begin again. Dana was sleeping off and on in the chair next to Laras, while Lara read magazine after magazine. The tv that was provided to pass the time of all the visitors stayed on one channel. Everyone there was tired and bored.

Baby, Lara tried to gently rouse Dana, Dana.

Hmmm Dana gently nuzzled further into Laras shoulder.

Why dont we go see your mom again and then go to The Planet or just straight home. You need to get out of here and get some more rest.

Dana raised her sleepy head from its resting spot. I dont know if I can leave her.

Baby, I dont want you to get down and sick. Laras hand cupped Danas face. You need to be well for not only your mom, but for everything that is coming up.

Ok. Lets go see her one more time tonight. But can we get here early tomorrow?

We can do anything you want to do. Lara smiled at Dana.

Wait a minute. I havent even thought about you. You havent gone to work in how many days?

Dont worry about that. I told them I had a family emergency that needed my full attention and one of the other sous chefs is going to cover me for as long as I need.
Lara, you cant

Dana, stop. You are my family and that means that I am going to be right beside you through thisno matter how long it takes. Laras hand moved from Danas cheek to the nape of her neck, her thumb caressing her cheek.

But Lara, your job is important to you. You love to cook, you love your job. Dana looked into Laras eyes. I dont want you to loose your job over this.

Youre right, I do love my job. I love to be able to serve the public and I love to cook. But I love you more. A small kiss was placed on Danas lips. Being a sous chef is a big part of my life, but you ARE my life. Laras thumb caressed Danas bottom lip. Now, lets go see your mom.

Danas right hand mimicked Laras and pulled her into a kiss, not one of passion like they had shared earlier, but one of appreciation.

Lets go. And can we stop by The Planet on the way home, I have missed seeing everyone.

I thought you would like to do that. I already called Alice while you were sleeping. A crooked grin emerged on Laras face.

You always think of everything. Dana placed a quick kiss upon the soft sensual lips before her, Lets go tell mom good night.

As they walked into the darkened room, they saw Howie and Irwin standing by the bed, each holding one of Sharons hands. Irwin was telling Sharon that the doctors were going to bring her back to him tomorrow. Howie was just smiling.

Hi, we just wanted to say good night to mom.

Irwin turned around to see the lovers hand in hand. I have a favor to ask you when you get done.

Sure, no problem.

Now this is what I like to see, the whole family gathered together. Holli always had a knack for walking in just at the right time.

Dana turned towards her and smiled, Hi Holli. We just came in to tell mom good night, we wont be but a second.

Dont worry about it. As long as slim over there gets outta my way so I can get the readings off of those machines, ya know the ones with all the numbers and lights. Holli pointed towards Howie and smiled.

Well anyways, Dana made her way to the bed and bent over the railing to give her mom a kiss on the forehead. Good night mom, well be back in the morning. Dana turned towards her dad, What did you want to ask me?

Could Howie stay with you tonight? I want to stay here tonight. Irwin wanted to be near Sharon just in case.

Sure he can. Lara answered for Dana. That way I can torment him for eating half of my dinner tonight too. Lara got a devilish grin on her face.

Dad, I can stay here Howie didnt want to be tortured tonight.

Noyou need to get some rest and I dont want to be worrying about you out in the waiting room or running around the hospital all night.

Come on little brother, Ill protect you from big, bad Lara. Dana began to chuckle.

Ha Ha..youre so funny Dana. Howie walked past his sister. See ya in the morning dad.

Good night you all. Irwin looked at Dana, and thanks.

Youre welcome. Bye Holli.

Oh, bye. See you all tomorrow.

With that the three left Irwin alone with Sharon and Holli. Howie went ahead to get the elevator as Dana and Lara slowly walked behind.

You know we are seriously going to have to torture him tonight. The grin returned to Laras face as well as a gleam in her eye.

You are so bad. Dana just gave Lara a toothy smile.

Yeah, but that is what you love about me. Lara swung Dana around in front of her and gave her a kiss.

God you two, cant you wait until you get home?

Why so you can listen at the door again? Lara broke the kiss and had her forehead on Danas.

The elevator doors opened and they all got in. Hey, How.

Yeah?

We are going to stop off at The Planet before we get home.

The Planet? What is that? Howie didnt know about the coffee shop that all of Danas friends hung out at.

It is a place that some of us go to hang out and have coffee.

You mean where you and your ***** friends hangout.

No, you little butt. Dana hated that word. It is where everyone hangs out.

Lara just sat in the passenger seat and laughed. You two are too much.

Thank you. It came at Lara in stereo.

All three were laughing hysterically. The ride to The Planet seemed way too short. Time passed at a fast pace for the first time in weeks.

As they entered, Dana went in first, dragging Lara by the hand right behind. Then came Howie. Once Alice saw him, she couldnt resist. Hey twerp. How ya doin?

Still have a boyfriend? Howie fell right in with Alice.

No, why?

Im fine and stuck with the two horny toads over herewant some company?

You over 18 yet?

Not yet, but what is a year and a half?

About 5 to 10.

All the women began to laugh. You guys suck. Howie took a seat next to Alice.

Marina sauntered up to the table. And how are we tonight?

Tired, but good. Dana looked over to Lara, Ive had a good keeper

I imagine you have. And who is this? Marina noticed the young man hitting on Alice.

Howie stood straight up and shook Marinas hand. My name is Howie and you are the most beautiful woman I have ever seen.

Everyone at the table started to laugh as Marina grinned at the teenage hitting on her now.

How, Alice was getting a little too much pleasure out of this, you would have a better chance with me. She already has a girlfriend.

Damn is everyone *****? Howie was getting shot down all over the place.

No I dont Alice, she left for Virginia. Marina seductively smiled at Howie, who began to quake as she leaned in to whisper in his ear, You are cute. Marina pulled back to see a blood red face in front of her. But Alice is right, you are a little too young. She let go of his hand and turned to go get everyones usual.

The door opened and Shane came strode in. Hey Dane, whats up? She sat down in Howies chair before he realized what was happening.

His eyes were glued to the exotic form that just got him all hot and bothered. He finally snapped out of it when he sat down on Shanes lap. Oh *****.

Howie, you are such a dork. Dana loved everyone picking on her brother.

Shut up. Howie got up off of Shanes lap and went around to the other side of Alice to sit down.

Nothing much is going on. Dana finally answered Shanes question. They have begun to bring mom out of the coma. They said they hope she will be awake sometime tomorrow.

Thats great.

So she is doing better? Alice put her elbow on the table to rest her head in her hand.

The doctor said she is.

The doctor said what? Marina had returned to the table with everyones drink and a soda for Howie. How is your mother?

She is better, they are trying to bring her out of the coma. Dana didnt mind repeating that news.

How wonderful.

The next hour was spent having small talk and bantering back and forth. Of course, Howie tried to flirt with everyone.

Well, we need to get going. I want to get to the hospital early tomorrow. Dana was getting tired, but she would never admit it.

Yeah, we need to get the dorky kid home to get some rest too. Lara pointed towards Howie as he was trying to hit on Alice one more time.

DorkyI got your dorky.

Yeah well, keep your dorky to yourselfactually, lets see the dorky, we all need a good laugh. Alice loved it, she never got to pick on her brother like this.

You want me, you know it. Howie just smiled as he got up to go.

Hugs and goodbyes were exchanged between everyone. As they reached the car, Dana hugged Lara hard and tight.

What was that for?

Thank you. You know what I need before I do. Dana leaned in for a kiss as the car horn sounded.

Oh, sorry. Did I interrupt?

You are one dead kid. Dana placed a quick kiss on Laras lips as Lara slid into her seat. She made her way around to the drivers side and started the car. Now, lets go home.

Danas heart was full again. Full of love, full of hope.