31. Emilio #3
“I think it is best for Javi to go first, so that he can get back to work. I’ll stay behind and give the operational update.” Doc’s open fretting is enough to raise everyone’s eyebrows. The fact Javi doesn’t respond to it at all is disturbing on so many levels.
“Very well.” Javi is subdued as he takes over, and it’s like looking at someone I don’t even know.
He’s wearing the face of Javi, but his emotions are completely different.
“First, let me say that everyone seems to be making solid progress.
The only two people who remain in the hospital wing, for my field, are Roman and Hollis.
I do not believe it will take much longer before both are discharged fully.
“We do feel it’s time to start working on interpersonal relationships. All the therapists agree with that. I’ll have a list to give you later with the suggestions.”
He doesn’t look up from whatever paperwork he’s holding in front of him. The blankness… Fuck. Is there an option to check him into a hospital bed?
“Alright,” I say gently, and then decide to test him a bit, to see if I can at least trigger some interest. “By chance, can you make us a list of potential targets?”
“What do you mean?” he asks, a flicker of something in his eyes.
Biting my lip, I exchange a glance with Carter, and at his go-ahead, I explain, “We need PAs. For the Voices, and for the technology department, including Leandro. However, finding people willing to work for the mafia…”
He lets out a laugh that startles us all, but my heart rejoices at it. Sure, it’s an evil laugh, but that’s completely acceptable.
“Oh, this is going to be good. Yes, I’ll get started on that now. I believe we’ll need to screen for certain…skillsets. Problematic personalities can be helpful…” he mutters as he gets up and leaves without saying a word, or being excused.
Jude’s lips purse as his eyes follow Javi out, and I silently wish the Voice good luck. At least, he’ll deal with it. Hopefully.
“I trust I don’t need to point out the obvious?” Doc’s dry voice makes me wince.
Sighing, I hesitate before asking, “How bad is it?”
“Enough that Sarah and I are keeping a close eye on him. I don’t want to lose him, but he’s on edge. I don’t think he’s sleeping properly. His cousin-in-law does not want to interact with him, and while he doesn’t seem to be a fan of Daniel’s, he appears to feel obligated due to Ely.”
“I could visit and take care of the situation?” I offer hopefully, needing a way to let out my frustration anyway.
Doc seems to consider it seriously before Jude steps in with a firm, “I’ll take care of Javi.”
Annoyance crosses Doc’s face, but he doesn’t argue with the Voice.
I’m fairly certain that next time Jude needs the good drugs, they aren’t going to be provided, though.
“Very well. Otherwise, everything is going well. Jayden reports that Ignacio is almost ready to be discharged from physical therapy, although I think he’ll stay on for training in general.
Cristian, as you know, is recovering. I’m assisting with the therapists at the moment as well, due to Javi’s current slight instability. ”
I wince, saying, “How are we doing on filling open positions?”
Doc's scowl pretty much says it all, and I quickly shut up as he answers, “Considering I don’t have time to spend finding the replacements and checking all the credentials?”
“Make time,” Carter states firmly. “I don’t want our people to suffer burnout. We’re done with that. Do not make me call in Soren to handle the situation.”
“Oh, am I allowed to call in Keegan when I have an issue with you then?” he snipes back, but Carter doesn’t rise to the bait.
I have to give it to Carter, he knows how to handle a brat. The flat stare is enough to make Doc roll his eyes and give up. Even as he flicks away Carter’s words, he nods an acknowledgment.
“Fine. I’ll see myself out now, as I have things to do as well.”
With that, he leaves, and I take my first deep breath. Fuck, it’s been a long day. All I want is to curl up somewhere with some chocolate…and maybe more coffee.
“Alright, we’ll schedule a family meeting for later, but definitely not today. I believe we all have things to do,” Carter says with a finality that makes me think he’s also at the end of his patience. Perhaps, this will convince him we shouldn’t schedule long meetings in the future…
We all give our agreement, and I note with interest that Jude is the first one out the room, only hesitating long enough to kiss Tennant and Roman before leaving. I wonder if Antonio can find out what happens next with Javi and report back to me.
Carter and Keegan leave together, likely to find Marcus and Cole. Roman hesitates, but decides to go visit his dad. I opt to walk with him, but then decide I should check in with Anderson, if he has time. Fuck knows I could use some help processing…
At this point, I even miss Master’s nursery. That, and the playroom. I desperately need to be put on my knees. Maybe Anderson can help me figure out how to ask, as I’ve never been in this position. Fucking feelings. They should go to hell…