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Chapter Text

"Let's schedule another CT scan now that we have her back. We need to determine the cause of that code." Guy mentioned  waiting for Jac to make her way downstairs.  "Serena, you should try something." Dom mentioned this as Bernie was being taken away. Serena gave a confirming nod. "Now!" Dom raised his eyebrows. Serena let out a heavy sigh and made her way to the cafeteria, feeling a tinge of sadness. Meanwhile, Bernie was occupied with something in CT.

(hospital cafeteria) 

Serena picked up a serving of French fries. Usually, she would opt for a salad, but in that moment, Serena found solace in indulging in a plate of fries. While she was enjoying her meal, someone quietly placed their tray next to hers. "Serena," a familiar voice said. Serena glanced upwards, momentarily taken aback as she struggled to swallow the fries in her mouth.
"Marcus?" 
"Charlotte called," he whispered gently. Serena casually grabbed another handful from her plate and dipped the fries into ketchup. "I didn't come here to argue. I simply wanted to... I don't know... to see her and my daughter. I just wished it was under better circumstances." He remarked as he savored a bite of his gammon and cheese sandwich. There was a brief pause as Serena collected her thoughts. "it's not looking good Marcus. She experienced a coding episode last night and is currently relying on a breathing machine for support." She struggled to hold back tears as she spoke to the man who was married to Bernie, her voice filled with emotion. Marcus playfully draped his arm around Serena."she's going to make it. It's Bernie, for goodness sake. She's the most stubborn woman we both married." Serena gazed up at him, her tear wiped away as laughter escaped her lips."Stubborn is an understatement," she emphasized."How is Jayson handling everything?" He asked. "His routine has been disrupted. He and Bernie used to enjoy working on cars together after their shift. However, since the accident, he has developed a fear of cars and prefers to avoid them. As a result, anyone accompanying him will have to do a lot of walking." she tried to joke but it was all true. "I can imagine that it's quite challenging." He seemed unsure of what else to express.
"Yes, it is," she retorted.
"How about I check with Charlotte if she can stay with her mother while you take some time for yourself?" Marcus proposed. "Feel free to take a nap or shower, whatever you need." 
"I don't see any reason why not, as there isn't much for me to do around here." Serena spoke softly. 

(Bernie's recovery room)

Charlotte walked into her mother's room and discovered that it was vacant. She observed the machine as it caused her mother's chest to rise and fall. She remained on her feet for a while, hesitant to sit down. She believed, for some inexplicable reason, that sitting down would cause her mother even more pain. Such thinking, of course, is unfounded, so she eventually took a seat. After her brother's passing, Charlotte contemplated pursuing a career in medicine. However, observing her mother's achievements in life, it became clear that her mother valued individuality and making choices based on personal desires rather than following the crowd. She had a deep desire to pursue art or explore the world. While she was in Bangladesh, she received a phone call about Cameron that left her feeling incredibly down. The 10-hour flight back was filled with a sense of sadness and heaviness. She gently took hold of her mother's hand. "Mom, please wake up. We all need you - Serena, Jayson, and I. I can't bear the thought of attending another funeral." She wept. 

After Serena changed her clothes, showered, and took a quick nap, she was determined to accomplish her goal. She entered Hanson's office and found him seated at his desk. "How may I assist you, Mrs. Campbell?" Henrik asked. "I believe that Mr. Asher should be terminated." Serena stated with confidence.
"I'm making progress, Serena. Would you like me to submit a formal report to HR and take legal action against him?" Henrik asked. "I do," Serena replied.
"Alright. The report has already been submitted. I assumed you would be interested in doing so. Regarding the lawsuit. I recommend seeking the assistance of a reputable attorney and forwarding the necessary documents to them." Henrik said. "Thank you. so is he fired?" she said.
"Not at the moment. Approval from HR is required. Hopefully they will reach a decision tonight. Henrik responded. Serena let out an exasperated sigh.
"Thank you," she said graciously before departing the room and making her way back to Bernie's recovery room.

(Back in Bernie's room)

"Hey, how is she?" Serena asked as she approached and took a seat beside Charlotte.
"According to the doctor, there have been no significant changes. The scans did not reveal any apparent cause for the coding, suggesting that it occurred without any specific reason."  Charlotte responded. "I apologies for the inconvenience caused. I should have been present to prevent you from hearing that." Serena exclaimed, wrapping Charlotte in a warm and affectionate hug. "So the CT scan clear?" Serena asked. "It was." There is no evidence of any re-bleeding in the brain or heart. Everything appears to be in order; all that remains is for her to awaken and see what the damage is." Ric entered the room. Serena didn't need to ask. She was already aware of the speech, motor, and memory complications. and it terrified her beyond belief. Would she be able to care for Bernie if she had a disability? She managed with Jayson, despite the challenges, and wouldn't trade it for anything. Is she capable of meeting the needs of the both of them?

Dom, typically composed, was starting to unravel. He felt a deep sense of fear, worried about the possibility of losing yet another one of his friends. As soon as he spotted the neurosurgeon strolling down the hallway, he eagerly approached. "You jerk!" he shouted, delivering a punch to Asher's face.
"Hey!" Asher exclaimed, his hand pressed against his cheek.
"You deserve it. you disregarded a CT order for one of our highly skilled surgeons at this hospital. her family our waiting for her to wake up, but of course you have no regard for that do you." Dom shouted without any concern for the onlookers. "Serena is in pieces because the love of her life is dependent on a breathing machine, and your response is "i'm sorry". you need to be fired if not even sued. Dom felt a sense of unease. He walked away with frustration evident in his stride, and smoothly entered an exam room. He walked back and forth across the room. Unaware of the tears cascading down his cheeks. He swiftly regained his composure and left the room to carry on with his day. 

Chapter Text

After a few days, Bernie's condition showed slight improvement, but she remained unconscious. It has been over a week since the seizure, and it is concerning that Bernie has not woken up yet. As Dom stepped into Bernie's room, he noticed that she was alone. He let out a sigh of relief. He approached the bed and gently grasped her hand. "Bernie,listen to me. I've visited the rooftop quite frequently this week, and it's become rather dull without my friend. After Arthur, I vowed to never subject myself to another funeral. Serena needs you, a lot of people need you." He stated. "you need to wake up , because if you don't i will kick your ass." He made a light-hearted remark. Just as Dom was about to leave, he suddenly detected a subtle shift beneath his hand. At first, he questioned whether it was just his imagination playing tricks on him. But then, to his surprise, it happened again. With a sudden intake of breath, he quickly pressed the call button. The doctors and Serena hurried down the corridors to Bernie's room, bracing themselves for the worst.
"What's happening?" Ric asked.
"I believe she is starting to regain consciousness." Dom said, maintaining his grip on Bernie's hand. 
"Really?" Serena asked, her voice filled with hope and a hint of unease. Dom nodded, releasing Bernie's hand, and gracefully stepped aside to make way for Serena. Dr. Ash quickly arrived and performed a thorough neurological assessment, which yielded positive results. 

Serena gently took hold of Bernie's hand and spoke softly. 
"Bern, feel free to proceed at your own pace. Absolutely, you nailed it.
She sensed a subtle shift and instinctively tightened her grip on Bernie's hand. Hopefully she will be fully awake by the end of the day. Allow her some time. Asher stated. Serena sat next to Bernie and engaged in a lively conversation with her. "I love you so much," she repeated repeatedly. "Take as much time as you need." Serena mentioned that, despite her strong desire to gaze into the captivating eyes she had fallen for. 

(Staff Room)

"any progress?" Dom asked as Serena entered the room. "Just a few occasional hand twitches." Serena said. 
"Auntie Serena?" "Jayson asked.
Serena glanced over and noticed Jayson comfortably seated on the staff room sofa. She grinned at her nephew dressed in a suit.
"Nice suit. What's the occasion?" she asked confused. "Bernie is waking up!" he exclaimed with excitement.
Charlotte approaches Serena. "Apologies, but he insisted on being here when he heard us talking over the phone." Charlotte offered her apologies.
Serena shook her head and embraced her tightly.
"How has he been?" she said.
Charlotte watched as Jayson eagerly dug into his plate of fish and chips, seemingly oblivious to their conversation. "The initial nights were a bit challenging for him, but he managed to soothe himself by watching TV. I had plans to accompany him into town to buy tea when you called." Charlotte contributed.
"I'm at a loss for words to express my gratitude. It has been incredibly helpful". She embraced Charlotte tightly, pulling her into a warm hug.

They gathered in Bernie's room that night. Serena sat close to Bernie, holding his hand, while Charlotte settled into the worn chair in the corner. Jayson claimed the sofa bed, which Serena had decided not to sleep on since she was here. At around 2 am, Bernie gently shifted her arm and placed it across her chest.
"I don't believe it will take much time." "Ric," Serena exclaimed, startled by his sudden appearance.
"Finally." Serena playfully whispered so as not to disturb the other two's sleeping. At 4 in the morning, Serena had drifted off to sleep, her head tilted to the side on the edge of Bernie's bed, their hands still intertwined.Bernie let out a frustrated sigh. Serena's head jerked upwards. Bernie's eyes were shut, yet she could sense the subtle movement beneath her closed eyelids. 

Chapter Text

Bernie's entire body ached. Her head, in particular. She gently opened her eyes and surveyed her surroundings. "Hi." Serena said watching the love of her life finally wake from her coma.
Bernie attempted a smile, but her expression faltered as she became aware of the tube inserted into her throat. Bernie, using her proficient hand, started to grasp at the tube, but Serena tenderly removed her hand and held it in her own, comforting  but restraining Bernie. "Don't worry, love. Donna will remove the tube for you. Just try to remain calm, alright?" Serena said gently  caressing her cheek.
"Alright, Mr. Wolfe, I would like you to cough forcefully on the count of three." Donna explained as she expertly unstrapped the support straps and confidently grasped the bottom of the tube where it begins. "One, two, three, cough." Donna instructed.
Bernie let out a raspy cough as Donna pulled, causing Bernie to gasp and cough as she felt the tube go up and out her throat. "That's perfect, you're doing great." Serena softly murmured while gently caressing the back of Bernie's hand. Bernie winced in discomfort as she attempted to bring her uninjured hand to her head. "Mrs. Wolfe, I understand that this situation may be overwhelming and difficult for you, but it is important for you to say something." Dr. Ash stated.
She slowly turned her head towards him and narrowed her eyes.
"o- o.uc..h," she stammered sarcastically. 
Serena smiled same old same old Bernie even after being hit by a van she though to herself kissing Bernie on the top of her head. 
It came as no surprise to the doctors that Bernie would soon fall back asleep, but this time not into a coma. 
"Why is she sleeping again?" Jayson returned to the room with Charlotte after receiving Serena's permission. Serena was hesitant to let them both witness Bernie's condition as he was being taken off the breathing machines. "Her brain is still healing from a seizure she had, Jayson, but she's doing fine. This time, she's just dreaming. Why don't you accompany Charlotte home and see if she's available tomorrow? You are welcome to come and visit her,Do you mind?" Serena turned and asked of Charlotte. "Sure, that's fine. Just give me a call if anything happens yer." 
Serena nodded. Charlotte approached her slumbering mother and gently pressed a kiss against her cheek. With heartfelt affection, she whispered words of love before departing with Jayson, who bid farewell to those around them with a friendly wave. "We will need to perform another CT and Neuro assessment once she wakes up." Ric said smiling as he left the two of them alone. Serena slept well tat night feeling relieved and at ease, knowing that her wife was alive.

Chapter Text

Bernie woke up the following morning feeling considerable discomfort. As she awoke, her gaze fell upon Serena, peacefully slumbering. She let out a pained groan as she attempted to rouse her wife for assistance. 
"Mom?" Charlotte woke up from her sleep and walked over. "Are you alright?" Charlotte asked
"Hur..ts" she murmured, her voice filled with pain, as tears welled up in her eyes. "Serena?" Charlotte softly called, gently nudging Serena.
Upon waking up suddenly, Serena called for Guy, who had returned from Seattle. 
"Bernie How are you feeling?" he asked as he entered her room a few minutes later. " he..ad h..u..rts." Bernie spoke with a deliberate pace, as if she was carefully processing her own words. 
"Given the head injury and being struck by a moving van, it's not surprising. I will provide you with some pain medication. However, before doing so, I will now proceed to examine your pupils, if that's alright with you." Bernie gave a nod and winced as the intense light hit his eyes. The guy nodded and smiled, with both of his pupils reacting. "all good, could you please track the movement of my fingers?" he asked.
Bernie gradually grasped the task at hand. 
"Great job! Now, I'm going to give you three words to remember. Pay close attention because I'll be asking you to recite them back to me later. Are you ready?" he asked giving her the words dog, spoon and car. Bernie nodded and repeated those three words in her mind. "Bernie we are going to check your incisions now." While lifting Bernie's garment to check the wound, Ric commented. A minute later, he saw no problems. "i want x-rays done on your leg and hand and a CT i think Guy want another head CT so we will do that in the afternoon." Ric said. "wh...at..hap..pend?" Bernie asks. 
"you don't remember?" Serena worriedly queried. "Th..e last th..ing I rem..ember is you do..ing ro...unds a few days go." Bernie spoke slowly. Serena sighed in relief that her memory was okay. "umm Guy was at a conference in Seattle, so Dr.Asher took over. he was supposed to do a morning CT, but he didn't." Serena said, clearly seething with anger."now your scans thankfully came back clean, but you had a seizure that we don't know the cause of yet." Serena added.
"you've been unconscious for a week and a few days." Ric remarked, removing gloves. "wo..ah am..i..o.kay?." Bernie digested the facts. Serena gazed up to her physicians, who nodded. "you're okay." Serena kissed Bernie's lips to confirm. 
"Cha...rlotte, Jaso....n?" Sleepy Bernie inquired.  "there all good, their with Fletch." Serena stated. Bernie grinned. "my...sp..each?" Bernie questioned, struggling to stay awake. "for what the scans and tests say it's postictal from your seizure and hopefully with time your speech will return to normal now i can see your tired so i will let you rest." Ric said. 

(CT room)

Later that afternoon, Ric, Guy, and Sasha wheeled a sleeping Bernie to the CT room for her last scan.  "Her leg and hand seem OK, so I'll cast them for two more weeks. Her wrist and led pins will hurt and require extensive PT." Sasha said looking at Bernie's X-rays waiting for the CT results to show up. They leaned in to observe Bernie's brain pictures after the computers beeped. "Her brain seems OK. I notice nothing worrying. No bleeding. her neuro test was clear." Guy said while reviewing the scans. 

After three hours, Serena returned to Bernie's room, looking refreshed and content. A smile spread across her face as she noticed Bernie was awake. "Hello!" Serena gently pressed her lips against Bernie's forehead, expressing her affection in a tender gesture. "Hi," Bernie replied with a smile. "How are you doing?" Serena inquired, gently taking hold of Bernie's hand. "Dr..ug..ged." Bernie chuckled softly, mindful of his chest discomfort. "Oh, is that so?" Serena gently asked as she lovingly kissed Bernie's forehead once more. "I... lo.ve... yo.u..." Bernie said. "I feel the same way about you." Serena responded. 
"Y..ou ar..e the lo..ve of my li..fe," Bernie exclaimed joyfully, gazing up at the ceiling. "Bernie, i love you too" Serena happily repeated her words and eagerly joined Bernie on the bed, leaning in close as Bernie rested her head on Serena's shoulder. Serena embraced Bernie, pulling her in tightly. "Rest, Bernie. I'm not leaving. Also the effects of those drugs will start to take the full effect soon." Serena reassured. Bernie let out a contented sigh as she snuggled her face into the embrace of her partner's neck and shoulder. 

"Hey," Charlotte greeted as she entered the room. "Shh," Serena whispered, gently placing a finger to her lips. "Oh, my apologies!" Charlotte exclaimed. "how is mom?"Charlotte asked not know what else to talk about. "She's good. The results of her scans were normal and showed no abnormalities. The guy insists on keeping her in for at least another week, while Sasha is adamant about keeping the casts on for at least another two weeks." Serena explained. 
"That's excellent." Charlotte said gracefully settled into a chair. Serena was just about to speak when Bernie began whimpering in her sleep. "Bernie, wake up." Serena softly murmured into her ear. Bernie let out a louder whimper and began to shift restlessly. 
"Berenice." Wake up, you're just having a nightmare. It's okay."  Serena said a little louder. Bernie's eyes snapped open as she surveyed her surroundings, wincing at the discomfort caused by her movements. "Hey, hey, it's alright. I'm here, Charlotte is here. You're safe." Serena gently placed Bernie's head back onto the pillow, tenderly brushing her sweaty hair away from her face. Bernie's tears began to flow gently as she clutched her gown, feeling the pain emanating from within. Serena gently massaged her shoulder. "I'm here." Serena repeated as Bernie's sobs subsided and her breathing returned to a peaceful rhythm. Charlotte witnessed her mother more than once in a distressing dream, recalling the sounds of anguish emanating from her parents room whenever Bernie returned to the country during her childhood. Charlotte had underestimated the level of intensity, not only for herself as a spectator, but also for her mother who was experiencing the nightmares. "Are you alright?" Serena observed the slight change in Charlotte's face as she casually adjusted her neck. Charlotte affirmed and disagreed. "Yeah, I'm alright. I just underestimated how challenging it can be for mum at times." 
Serena moved her chair closer to Charlotte's and embraced her with a warm hug. 
"It's alright, this is the first one she's had in a while. However, it is still difficult to watch, and I find it challenging to cope with when it occurs." Serena confessed. "Has she received therapy since her return over the past two months?" Charlotte asked.
Serena arched an eyebrow. "What do you think?" 
Charlotte was well aware of the answer, while her mother remained clueless. "where's Jason by the way?" Serena chimed in. "He's incessantly pestering Henrik and Fletch about cars in the boss's office." Charlotte whispered with a soft chuckle, careful not to disturb Bernie's sleep, as she chatted with Serena. 

Chapter Text

Bernie awoke to a throbbing headache, accompanied by aching in her leg and a sharp pain in her chest where her sternum had been fractured. Her sudden cry startled Serena awake. "What is it?" Serena she said.
"Pain," Bernie whimpered, tears welling up in her eyes. Serena effortlessly retrieved her chart and quickly perused it to determine the timing of her most recent dosage. 
"I understand that it may be painful, but you will be able to receive another dose once the rounds begin. It will only be a few minutes. i'm sorry babe" Serena gently held Bernie's hand, noticing the soft sound of Bernie's whimper. Sasha, Jac, and Guy all entered her room one by one.
"Is she alright?" Ric asked.
"She is currently experiencing discomfort as her pain medication has worn off and she requires a refill." Serene described the scene as she gazed down at her spouse.  "Bernie Could you please sit up? Ric asked in a gentle tone.
"No.ooo." Bernie wept as she attempted to draw nearer to Serena. Serena Knew Bernie's  pain was severe, judging by the way she was speaking to Ric. She cried even harder, her gaze fixed on the ceiling tiles above. Serena made every effort to provide comfort. "Bernie, we will provide you with additional pain medication. However, it is necessary for us to conduct an examination before administering it." Jac said feeling unease when the cries continued.
Bernie glanced at Serena with a perplexed expression, as if she was struggling to comprehend Jac's words. Serena leaned in and pronounced her words more slowly.
"Bernie they need you to sit up a bit and examine you before they give you medication for the pain." Serena said. Bernie gave a small nod while Serena carefully positioned herself on the edge of the bed, providing support to Bernie's back as she helped them sit up. "thank you Bernie. now we're just gonna do a few more tests and check ups to make sure nothing apart from the obvious is causing this amount of pain." Guy said worried if there was some neurological reason for the amount of pain Bernie was in. Everything was going smoothly until it was Jac's turn to inspect her heart and the incision on her chest."Bernie. I need to palpate once more. It might cause some discomfort, but we'll make sure to administer the necessary medication to help you feel better, alright?" Jac said. Bernie nodded and reclined with Serena's assistance. Jac delicately lifted Bernie's gown and placed her hand gently on her sternum. Bernie's breath hitched as she wriggled uncomfortably beneath Jac's touch. Bernie attempted to pry Jac's hand from her body, but the pain overwhelmed her, and she instinctively held her breath, causing her monitors to beep. Serena attentively observed the monitor while Bernie's concern grew. Without hesitation, she gently placed an oxygen mask over Bernie's face. "Bernie love take a nice deep breath for us." Serena asked as Jac completed her examination. Bernie acknowledge the increasing intensity of the discomfort in her chest sh ignored Serena. In a state of panic, she attempted to sit up, struggling to catch her breath as it became increasingly difficult and accompanied by wheezing. Jac observed the monitor as it gradually ascended. "Alright, let's administer her the medication." Bernie, please take a deep breath. We will be administering some medication to help you." Jac leaned over Bernie and spoke with a slightly raised voice. Morven prepared the medication and gently removed any bubbles from the syringe before administering it through Bernie's cannula. After a brief struggle, Bernie finally managed to take a breath, feeling a wave of relief as oxygen filled their lungs.
"Alright, take a nice and gentle breath, my love." Serena said gently brushing a strand of hair away from Bernie's face, her gaze fixed on her deep, tear-filled eyes. to see Bernie struggle to breath like that broke Serena's heart. she hated seeing the love of her life in that much pain that it caused her to hold her breath that long. weather it was a paper cut or being hit by a van Serena never liked when Bernie was in pain. "Alright, the medication has been received." Morven said looking her bosses monitor going down soon after giving the pain medication. it wasn't long before the drugs took full effect and Bernie's eyes closed as she slept.

Bernie woke up an hour later, feeling much improved compared to earlier in the day. "Hi!" she exclaimed with a cheerful smile, her gaze fixed on Serena. "Oh, I see someone has finally decided to wake up," Serena remarked with a playful smile. "how are you feeling?" she added. "I f...eel gr...eat." Bernie described rolling er eyes up slightly. Serene couldn't help but chuckle as she observed her wife.
"Am I floating?" Bernie remarked, gazing out the window of the room.
Serena couldn't help but stifle her laughter, her hand instinctively rising to cover her mouth. 
As Bernie heard the laughter, she lazily turned her head towards her wife, who appeared to be looking confused. "Why are you laughing?" Bernie asked.
"Your high honey." "Serena said," Serena stated. 
"I am not.I fe..el gre..at. Bernie exclaimed! 
"I'm really excited to share this story with others." Sernea quipped with a touch of humour. "Um... no!" Bernie was adamant.
"Okay, my apologies," Serena said, raising her hands in a defensive gesture. 
"Thank you." Bernie let out a small chuckle as a faint smile graced her lips. Her eyes began to droop shut once more, but she made an effort to resist it. "Don't worry, Bernie. Take some time to rest and recharge. I'll be right here for you." Serena offered reassurance. Bernie nodded slowly and allowed herself to drift back to sleep. 

While Bernie was sleeping, Serena went to find Charlotte and Jason in her office. "How is mum doing?" Charlotte asked. 
"She's okay. Would you like to go see her? Serena asked of both of them.
"Yes!" Jason exclaimed, leaping up from the cosy couch. Charlotte silently agreed as they strolled through the hallways.

"Bernie," Serena murmured, gently caressing her forehead. She stirred, gradually opening her eyes. "Hi," she softly murmured. 
"I have brought a few visitors for you." Serena gracefully stepped aside, uttering. 
"Hi, mom," Charlotte said with a smile. Bernie turned her head to the side upon hearing that voice and smiled. 
"Is Aunit Bernie still unwell?" Jason interrupted.
"a..bit..Jason..yer." Bernie admited. Jason approached with a bouquet of flowers and a heartfelt card that he and Charlotte had thoughtfully chosen prior to their visit to the hospital. He glanced at the cast on Bernie's arm, feeling unsure of how to proceed. "give it to Seren..a she can..open it for me." Bernie offered reassurance. Jason paused momentarily but handed it over to Serena after a few seconds. Serena revealed the contents of the card to Bernie, allowing him to see the message within. "Thank you, Jason. I really appreciate it, and the flowers are absolutely beautiful." Bernie said feeling very loved.

Chapter Text

After a week had gone by, Bernie found himself still confined to the hospital, much to his frustration. She was experiencing an improvement in her condition, although she still had some pain, which was to be anticipated. However, the intensity of her headache, as well as the discomfort in her leg and hand, had subsided. Despite the lingering pain in her chest, she felt prepared to return home. 
"Wolfe! Are you set to have those casts removed?" Sasha asked with great enthusiasm. Serena gently clasps her hand and offers a warm smile. "Yes, absolutely!" Bernie exclaimed.
"Let's start by freeing your hand, shall we?" He said.
Serena maintained her grip on Bernie's uninjured hand as the saw smoothly cut through the cast. "alright?" Sasha asked. Bernie nodded approvingly as Sasha skillfully removed the cast, eliciting a sigh of relief from Bernie. "How does that feel?" He asked. Bernie casually flexed her arm and effortlessly moved her fingers. "It's grate." Bernie let out a surprised breath. 
"Great." ready for that leg?" Sasha asked. Bernie nodded once more. 
"It's going to have a strong and imposing appearance. We had to insert pins in a similar manner as your wrist, but dealing with your leg was more challenging due to the severity of the fracture. As a result, there is a significant scar running along the underside of your calf." Sasha warned. With a decisive motion, he sliced through the cast and removed it, the sound of cracking plaster filling the air. "Ugh!" Bernie let out a sigh of discomfort as she noticed a sudden chill around her leg. Her gaze shifted downward, revealing the scar that Sasha had mentioned. The color of her calf was a beautiful blend of blackish purple with blue edges, accentuated by a striking reddish pink line down the middle. "Now, in order to ensure proper protection, you will have a leg brace on. Once we thoroughly clean it, we can determine whether crutches or a wheelchair would be more suitable for the initial weeks." Sasha explained as his pager went off. "well duty calls i'll see you in an hour or so to get you up and walking hopefully on that leg of yours." He said smiling as he left the room. Bernie squirmed on the bed, emitting a low groan. "Are you alright?" Serena asked in a gentle tone. "I'm fine!" Bernie remarked that Serena gave her a familiar look of skepticism. "I'm feeling fine, just a bit uncomfortable, but overall I'm doing well." Bernie elaborated. Serena agreed with a nod and gracefully settled onto the bed next to her. "do I tell you i love you?" Bernie stated.
"All the time, do i say how much i love you." Serena asked in response. Bernie grinned and settled peacefully next to Serena. "You definitely go beyond just telling." Bernie said, a smile playing on her lips.

Bernie was abruptly awakened by a gentle pinch on her nose. Something that she was very familiar with, but hasn't occurred in years. Bernie struggled to open her eyes and was greeted by the sight of the familiar blond hair. "Hello, mom!" Charlotte leaned over and gently kissed her cheek. Bernie glanced around the room, sensing the absence of Serena beside her.  "Mom, it's perfectly fine. I suggested that she go get a coffee." Charlotte explained. "And just to let you know, Jason is currently asleep in your office, with Fletch keeping an eye on him from time to time," she added. Bernie smiled and extended her hand towards her daughter. She sat in silence for a moment, marveling at how her little girl had grown up. Charlotte gently caressed the back of her hand. "How are you feeling?" Charlotte asked. "Quite good My chest is feeling a bit uncomfortable, but it's improving. I can't wait to go home." Bernie responded. 
"Excellent." Charlotte said with a smile. "Where is Serena?" Bernie inquired once more.
Charlotte glanced at her mother, feeling a mix of confusion and concern. It seemed like they had just discussed this matter moments ago. Charlotte was just about to speak when Serena entered the room, gracefully carrying two steaming cups of coffee. "Right here!" Serena exclaimed giving her step daughter a cup. Charlotte paused briefly, glancing at her mother before shifting her gaze towards Serena. "Thank you," she said, pausing to take a sip and catch her breath as the drink was slightly too hot.
"Where is mine?" Bernie joked. Serena let out a dismissive sound and arched an eyebrow at her wife. "No way, honey! Even when you're stuck in the hospital, you'd be bouncing off the walls and ceiling." Serena chuckled. "I did manage to bring this," Serena said, pulling out a container of chips from her bag. Bernie smiled, enjoying a welcome change from the bland hospital food she had been limited to since waking up from her coma. Serena effortlessly rolled the table closer to Bernie, skillfully positioning the chip in the center. "Here you go" Serena said casually helped herself to a chip, prompting Bernie to playfully feign surprise before returning her smile. Bernie delicately picked up a handful of chips, her hand trembling slightly as she brought it to her mouth. "Oh, salty!" she exclaimed, pleasantly surprised as she took a bite. but not disappointed she loved her salt a bit to much.