Chapter Text
Ace laughed, turning the music a bit up, singing with the song they all loved. He had just been at the movies with Sanji, Biggie, Deuce, and Kent. Thatch was supposed to join, but couldn't after all, making so Biggie could join. They had all watched the new Avengers movie, which was awesome! He was the only one who had a driving license, getting it 3 weeks ago when he turned 16. Being born on the first of January had its perks now and then. He had a sort of new car, just 3 years old, Pops being awesome and helping him buy it since he had done so well at school lately. He had offered to drive his friends home, but they said it was too much of a hassle, and they were all, except for him, going to sleep over at Deuce’s place. Ace could have joined, but it was a school night and Pops wanted him home by 10. It was a rule that Ace got and didn't argue with much, except in the weekends at times. He still had an hour to get home, so he had some time.
It was dark out, the sun going down early, and a bit of bad weather. While yes, Ace liked to go fast at times, he knew to not test his luck and did his best to drive safe- something his friends at times mocked him for- but Ace had his fun now and then. He didn't need to always speed. He had already gotten off road once, thankfully not damaging the car. It was after that that he had started to drive with a bit more respect. But, then again, he was still a child.
As the song ended, he turned to find a new one, turning the wheel on the CD-player while he looked at the road. When a car came towards him, Ace turned his headlights off to the weaker one, to not blind the other. But, the other didn't, making Ace need to take his hand away from the CD-player and shield his eyes a bit to still see the road. He could hear his friend judging the other, laughing that he was stupid and such- just normal fun. Ace made sure to keep an eye on the road, keeping in his lane and sure he still had control, needing to look a bit down and to the side, not able to look upwards to the road because of the blinding lights.
But, suddenly all of the others got quiet, before he heard Deuce yell for him to move, making Ace look up. The other car was in his lane, heading at way over the speed limit straight at him. Ace froze, having no idea what to do and just starting to move the wheel to get away. When they collided, Ace felt it going in slow motion- the entire car turning and he was sure they tumbled, things in the car flying around, then everything turned black.
Ace felt his eyes open, hearing shouting from everywhere, hearing sounds of things clicking, feeling himself stuck and not able to move. His eyes opened he saw he was upside down, feeling groggy, hearing Biggie screaming Kent’s name, making Ace trying to look up- down rather- to the mirror and seeing it was broken. But, he could see half of Kent’s face, which was bloodied, eyes open and empty, a bloodied hand he saw, most likely Biggie’s, trying to shake Kent. “W-w- what… ha…” Ace tried to speak, but felt he couldn't. He felt his sight going dark again, faintly hearing Biggie screaming his name, before it all went black again, sounds just disappearing, hearing the sound of an ambulance far away. Ace didn't know what had happened.
---x---
Whitebeard sat and turned the TV to the news, the clock turning 10. He knew Ace should be back by now, but he usually gave him a bit time to get home before got either mad or worried. Marco, however, who sat beside him, was already having a restless leg, looking at the clock a bit annoyed.
Marco was the oldest of his children, and therefore the most grown up and taking a lot of responsibility on to be stern, something he wasn't the best at. He gave a small nudge to Marco. “Don't worry, son. He will be here soon. Probably driving the others home.” Marco gave an annoyed sigh at it. The rest of his family was scattered around the house, not many of them liking to watch the news, which they always watched. The youngest, Haruta, Namur, and Curiel, were in bed, having a set bedtime at 8. The rest didn't have a bedtime, Vista, Fossa, Izou, Rakuyo, Ace, and Thatch only having times when they weren't allowed to be outside of the home, or be loud. They were all above 15, and therefore had less rules like that. But, Marco still wasn't above giving them house arrest, which Whitebeard found funny. He felt it was just yesterday when Marco was just a child and he gave Marco house arrest. They grew up way too fast.
As the news started, they did the regular preview of what would be said; A young woman complaining about her bosses, a famous person doing something normal which the news loved to blow up, a train stop, planes not able to fly because of the bad weather more south, and a bad car accident. Whitebeard felt himself do a small frown when the car crash was not too far away from them, maybe half an hour. He hoped it wasn't too bad. As the news anker, a miss Perona, started to speak about the planes being grounded, his phone rang. That was a bit weird, not many called this late. He was about to drag the green circle to answer, when the news about the car crash started, making him just stare at the screen.
It was Ace’s car. He knew that car from miles away. Marco seemed to get this too, and the news mentioned they didn't know how all the parts were, being too early to say. Whitebeard looked down at the phone, seeing the number starting with 2211, something he knew was a number at the hospital, Curiel sometimes helping out there with muscle. He sent a look at Marco before he answered, the man seeming worried himself.
“Edward Newgate,” He answered with, hoping his mind and gut was wrong. “Hello Mister Newgate, this is Robin from White Bay Memorial hospital, I’m sorry to say one of your children, an Ace D Portgas, has been in a car accident.” Whitebeard felt himself close his eyes, hoping for everything but this. Marco also seemed to get this too, going closer to the phone so he could hear the conversation. “How is he?” The nurse or doctor gave a sigh. “Not good, he has just been rushed into surgery, it was a front to front collision. He is stable, there is no concern of him dying at the moment, but he has bad injuries. I suggest you should come down here so I can give a better update. We’re at building 9, 3rd floor.” Whitebeard said he would come at once, before hanging up. “I’ll tell Curiel to watch the kids.” Whitebeard nodded, already knowing he would join. As all the kids said, Marco was a mother hen.
They didn't tell Curiel what had happened, just that they needed to leave. In the car, he could hear Marco muttering he had told Ace to be careful when he drove, making him give a sigh too. He knew Ace could be careless, but this didn't sound like him. When they got to the hospital, they were sent to a room to wait, before the door opened and a doctor came in. “Hello, I’m Doctor Robin, I spoke with you on the phone.” Both of them nodded and introduced themselves, before the doctor asked them all to sit and she sat down herself.
“We’re not sure of all the conditions, but a CCTV camera on the side, and a note, shows Mr Portgas got into a head to head collision with a young man with suicidal intentions, and swerved into Mr Portgas’ lane 20 miles over the speed limit, and hit your son’s car, which was a bit under the speed limit that was 40. Mr Portgas did try and get out of the way, but wasn't able to in such short time. The car tumbled at least 4 times, before coming to stop upside down when it hit a sign, the roadrail slowing them down, but causing the left side of the car be dented at the back. Mr Portgas does have severe injuries- broken bones, a collapsed lung, fractures. He is being treated in a surgery now, to stabilize him more, and then he will be here for a few days, before we want to transfer him to Whiskey’s Memorial Hospital, as they can deal with these injuries and rehabilitation better. But, we do believe he will be completely fine, it will just take some time.” It was a relief to know Ace was stable and would be fine. And before he could speak, the doctor continued.
“He was not alone in the car, and the other in the front passenger seat, a Deuce Morrows, has sustained similar injuries and is being treated at a different floor. Two in the back, a Sanji Blackleg and Biggie Smith, has less injuries, just a few broken bones and small wounds, and concussions, thankfully.” The doctor gave a sigh. “The last one, a Kent Forest, unfortunately died, being pronounced dead at the scene. From what Mr Smith have said, there is a chance Mr Portgas saw this, but might not be aware of it as he quickly passed out again. All guardians have been called and informed. The surgery Mr Portgas is in will soon be over, and he will be transferred here to recover. I would suggest you stay here for support. I am sorry to say you can’t get any sick days from us to your work as he is 16, not a full minor.” Whitebeard nodded, going to stay here as long as he could. He could, thankfully, have others step in for his work as CEO for a short time, same with Marco, making it easier for them here. He did speak with Marco and asked him to stay here for the night, so he could go home and explain to the others what had happened and fix a few things so they could stay here for a bit, before he returned to the hospital. It was fine by Marco, who was clearly worried himself.
Whitebeard just hoped things would go fine for them, that Ace would recover well.
---x---
Marco sat in an empty room, getting a bed to sit in from a nurse, being told that since they had a chance to be here, they could stay in the same room, which made him glad. He knew that it usually wasn't allowed, having an own hospital hotel. He was just thankful for that, but then again, they had names most knew, and knew they had a lot of influence. They did say Ace was just out of surgery, and would be sent to this room when they were sure he was stable after the surgery, something that was normal, he was told, and nothing to worry about. He did send a message to Pops, saying that, wanting to keep the man updated too. He was just really worried, but from what the nurses said, Ace was doing fine, and would be here soon. he would be glad to just see Ace, to know he was well, as the nurses said.
After 20 minutes, the door opened and a nurse came in, giving a smile and saying Ace was here now, him seeing a bed being pushed in behind her by a different nurse. But, when he saw Ace, he felt his worry spike. He looked awful. Ace had bad bruising all over his face and arms, clearly a swollen lip and a lot of bandages, his left arm even in a cast and different equipment hooked up. His right leg had metal bars out from it, the nurse calling it an external fixation. Ace looked to still be asleep as the bed was put in place, and as it was, Marco moved to lay his arm on his right arm, just worried, the other moving some of the hair out of his face. One nurse started putting the equipment up and connecting things, while the other spoke to him. “He most likely won’t wake up for a bit, but he is doing fine and is stable. The door will be a bit open, so if anything happens you can shout- which you most likely will not need to- and if you think anything is wrong, have any questions, or he shows signs of waking up, drag in the red rope and we will come. Aside from that, any questions?”
Marco tried to think, before he couldn't come up with any specific one. “He- I mean, how is he?” The nurse offered a smile. “I know it looks bad, but he is fine and will be fine. He will have some pain when waking up, but we are doing our best to reduce it. As you probably guess, don't put any pressure on his left arm as it is broken, same with his legs. When he wakes up, just be calm. This is a shock to him too.” Marco nodded to it and dragged a chair to the bed, moving to carefully hold Ace’s hand, hoping he would wake up and be fine.
The nurses then left him alone, Marco just sitting and stroking Ace’s hand and face, wanting him to wake up. After half an hour, the door opened to show Pops, who most likely had informed all the older kids, the younger ones probably still asleep. The man blinked as he saw Ace in the bed, looking worried as he made his way over, a hand going to Ace’s cheek. “He looks horrible.” Marco gave a sigh, explaining what the nurses had said, that it looked worse than what it was and that he would wake soon, hopefully. And, if they had any questions or worries, or when Ace woke up, to pull the alarm rope they had. Pops did nod at it and said he would leave to speak a bit to the nurses and hopefully doctors. Marco did get he might not get all the information, seeing as he was just a brother, Pops was the father, the legal guardian. When Pops came back 10 minutes later, he explained that Ace didn't have any injuries to his spine or neck, which was the most important, meaning he would most likely not get any lasting damage. He didn't have to bad internal damage, just the collapsed lung was the worst, but it would be fine. The bones would hopefully heal well, and when he was more stable, he would be transferred to the other hospital, needing to be more stable to make the two hour trip. But, he wasn't fatally injured.
Marco felt glad it looked good, and hoped everything would be fine. Ace was a fighter, so it hopefully would go fine. It was calm after that, the sounds being small things he and Pops spoke about and the calm and steady beeping from the equipment Ace was hooked up with. It was late, so it was generally silent at the hospital too, them sometimes hearing the small beeping from other patients calling for help.
When the clock passed midnight, being about 10 minutes past, Marco felt the hand he held tightened, looking to see Ace clutching his hand and looking to have a somewhat painful look. Ace was waking up. Pops seemed to realise too, dragning on the small rope, making a sound being heard in the hallway, Marco moving himself closer to Ace’s head, a and caressing his head. “Ace, hey, you can wake up now. Both me and Pops is here, yoi.” Ace’s face made some more grimacing, before eyes slowly opened a small bit, before Ace closed them, giving something that sounded like a sob. Pops moved his hand to Ace’s cheek. “Don't worry, son, it will be fine, you're fine.” It didn't seem to help much as the next sound was a loud sob, Ace’s breath hitching and speeding up, tears starting to fall from his eyes, trying to move his arms, making Marco try and carefully hold it down, so Ace didn't hurt it more. “Calm down, son. You're okay.” Tried Pops again, to no avail.
The door then opened and a nurse was there, taking what she saw in and yelled something to another nurse, before coming inside and pushing past him to touch Ace’s chest carefully. “Ace, you're fine. You had an accident and are in a hospital. Your brother and father are here. Just breathe slowly.” Ace opened his eyes at the woman, but his breath continued to hitch and speed up, eyes starting to look around as sobs and painful sounds was heard, Ace trying to move, the nurse carefully restraining him and telling to stay calm. Another nurse then came in and had a syringe, quickly injecting the contents into the Iv Ace was connected to, before doing the same with a second syringe. After that, it wasn't long before Ace slowly managed to take deeper breaths, calming down and looking around slowly. The nurse who had come first said it was a normal reaction waking up, before she moved her hand a bit on Ace's chest again, before moving it to his arm. “Hello Ace, I’m nurse Vivi. Can you tell me your name?” Ace tried to open his mouth, to speak, but didn't seem he could. “Is your throat dry?” Ace managed a small nod, before the nurse got a glass and straw from a table, offering it to Ace who carefully drank it, before the nurse asked the same question again.
Ace took a breath, still trying to calm down it looked like. “ A-Ace. ” The nurse nodded. “Good, do you know where you are?” Ace looked a bit around. “ H-hos-hospital..?” The nurse nodded. “Good. Do you feel any pain now?” Ace paused for a second, before managing to speak. “ A-arm. ” The nurse nodded. “Just try and keep the arm still. We can give something to help in an hour. For now, I guess you want a bit of time with your family?” Ace looked at him and Pops, before his eyes welled up with tears as he looked at Pops, making the man doing his best to give a small careful hug to Ace, giving small words of comfort, telling it would be okay. Marco had a hand stroking Ace’s arm carefully, looking to the nurse when she spoke. “I’m right outside, call if you need anything. This is also normal.” Marco nodded, giving a small thanks to her, before she left.
As the nurse left, he looked at the other two, hearing Ace trying to speak, giving out a stuttered apology, which Pops just hushed, telling he had nothing to be sorry for. After a minute, Marco heard Ace manage to get some coherent words out. “ I- the car- I didn't me-mean to.” That had Pops shake his head, speaking in a serious manner. “Don't apologize or even think about that. The car is nothing compared to you. I can always get a new car, but I can never get a new you, son.” Ace game what he believed to be a small nod, not seeming to have much strength, which he thought to be normal, or he hoped. Ace managed to calm down after another minute, looking tired and scared, turning to look at him, making Marco move his hand to Ace’s arm and stroke it a bit, offering a comforting look. “It will be fine, yoi. You have nothing to be afraid of, we don't care about the car, we just care about you.” Ace gave a small nod to it, trying to move his right hand Marco had held, to what seemed to dry his tears, but was unable too. He was probably still weak from the surgery and the drugs he got might not help it. “Here, son, let me.” Said Pops, movin to dry his tears away. “How do you feel?” Ace gave a small breath. “ I don't know… My arm hurts a bit… I don't feel the rest… I feel… weak…”
Both he and Pops gave a comforting look at that, Pops moving some hair out of Ace’s hair again. “You were in an accident and needed a surgery. You need to relax and get better.” Ace’s eyes looked down at himself, Ace getting a confused and scared look. “ H-how… how bad..?” Pops gave a small breath. “You have some broken bones, most in your legs and left arm, which they have done their best to fix, and you're medicated to not feel the pain. The doctors believe you will have no lasting damage, okay? Does you arm hurt bad?” Ace looked around a bit, seeing all the machines he was hooked up to, some making noises now and then. “ My arm… throbs...“ Ace looked down at his left arm. “ ...I can’t move my arm… or legs…” Ace looked a bit panicked at that, making Marco speak up. “You're fine, you are medicated to not feel pain. Why don't we get a nurse in to look at you? Maybe that will help?” Ace gave a small nod, making Marco pull the small red rope again, and it didn't take long for the nurse to comeback, most likely not going far as she said.
The nurse came in and gave a smile to Ace, moving her hand to his good one. “Let’s say hi properly. I’m Vivi.” Ace didn't react much, looking at the nurse. “ Hi… I’m… Ace.. ” The nurse nodded. “Good to meet you Ace. Does anything else than your arm hurt?” Ace gave a small shake of his head. “ ...no… but I can’t… feel… arm or legs…” The nurse nodded, giving a comforting smile. “I can imagine that being a bit scary. But, that is because of this machine.” The nurse pointed to a small thing on the wall, that made a noise now and then. “It is an epidural, which numbs your legs completely, so you're not in pain. Here is also a button,” The nurse got a small cord from the machine with a button at the end. “If you feel pain starting to get in your legs, you just press this, and it will give a bit more to numb it. You can press it as often as you want, it will not give anything close to an overdose, so don't be afraid to do it.” Ace gave a small sound to it, the nurse putting the button close to his right hand. “Your arm, left one, have a similar thing in it, called a blockade, which numbs your arm in the same way. We will refill it in an hour, we can’t give more now. If the pain is really bad, I can give something else.” Ace blinked once, before looking at his arm. “ Doesn't hurt… too bad…” The nurse nodded, seeming okay with that answer.
The nurse then moved to the end of the bed, before asking Ace if he had seen his legs yet, which Ace said no too, looking unsure why the nurse asked. “You have something called an external fixation on your right leg. It looks scary, but it is not, okay? I just need to check your legs.” Ace gave a small half scared “okay”, before the nurse moved the covers up, making his feet visible. One could see the covers were held up at the right leg, but it could be explained away by a pillow. Ace’s breath did hitch when he saw it, looking scared at his legs, especially as he saw the metal bars and all the bruising and such.
The nurse gave a comforting look to Ace. “This is what it looks like, nothing here is wrong, okay? Nothing to be scared about. I am now going to touch your toes, and ask if you feel it, to see how seadeted your legs are, okay?” Ace gave a small okay, Marco moving to hold his hand. Ace did answer as the nurse touched his toes, not feeling the touch in all of them, but the nurse wasn't worried, making Ace seem to calm a bit down.
The nurse put the covers back over his legs, before giving a smile. “Everything is fine, and now, you just need to relax. You will be a bit drowsy because of the medication, so you will feel a bit out of strength and drowsy.” Ace nodded to it, and the nurse gave a smile to both him and Pops too, before she left. After that, it wasn't long before Ace just fell asleep, seeming tired. When Ace was asleep, Marco mved a hand to his head, stroking his head as he moved some hair away. “This all must be scary for him.” Pops nodded, giving a sigh. “i can imagine. He is so young still, he shouldn't be here. But, we need to make the best of it, he is going to be okay.” That was true, Ace would be fine.
It was mostly silent after that, both him and Pops being awake in case Ace woke up again. When the clock was a bit past 1am, the door opened and the nurse came back in, speaking in a somewhat hushed tone. “You're awake still. I’m just going to put a refill on the blockade in his arm.” Both of them nodded, and Pops moved a bit away so the nurse could get to a small thing that looked like an IV from his arm, taking a small cork off, before injecting 4 syringes. When she was done, she gave a smile to them. “I just spoke to a doctor on night watch, since young Ace still had pain in his arm, so the dosage is a small bit higher. He might lose a bit more feeling in it, but it is normal.” Both of them nodded, giving a thanks, before the nurse told to just pull the rope if they needed anything too, as in coffee, food, or anything like that. Marco did take the offer for a coffee up, the nurse getting one before she left, letting them sit in silence, watching Ace sleep, glad he was fine, or as fine as he could be.
Marco went and laid a bit down in the bed when the clock closed in on 3, feeling tired, Pops telling him to go sleep a bit, and Marco didn't see the harm in that. He needed to be able to help Ace tomorrow, not be tired. He was sure Ace would be fine, and hoped everything would go fine too.
---x---
Whitebeard gave a sigh, watching Ace sleep, looking to be as comfortable as he could. He was just glad Ace was alive and didn't have any lasting damage or more serious ones. He knew his son had some terrible wounds and broken bones, but it would heal well. When Marco had fallen asleep, he had moved to the side Marco had sat on, so he could hold Ace’s hand, not allowed to put any pressure on the other one. He had explained to Curiel, Fossa, Izou, and Thatch what had happened, that Ace had been in an accident and was at the hospital, the reason both he and Marco wasn't at home and wouldn't be for a small while, leaving Curiel, Izou, and Fossa in charge of the younger ones. He did tell they maybe could visit later, when Ace felt better, but wasn't sure if Ace wanted it, or that he looked as bad as he did. He thought he just had some broken bones, not to the extent he had.
When the clock passed 7, the door opened to reveal a new nurse, who had orange hair. “Hello, I’m the nurse who’ll be with you for the day, I’m Nami.” Whitebeard gave a smile and shook her hand as he introduced himself. The nurse put more refill on the blockade, as well as checking the epidural, writing some things down as she looked at other things and did a quick check on Ace, before looking at him. “Did he wake any more during the night? Or have seemed to be in pain?” Whitebeard shook his head. “No, only the one time around midnight.” The nurse nodded, writing it down. “That’s fine, just to know if he had any pain or such. He looks to be fine, I can’t see anything concerning, and he will hopefully be a bit awake today, but don't push him if he don't. All of this is making him tired and feel exhausted, his body is doing its best to heal, and the medication also make him drowsy.” Whitebeard gave a nod at it, having expected that. The nurse offered food and drinks, him agreeing to a coffee, before the nurse said to not be afraid to call for her, and if Ace woke up and seemed fine, not in pain, they didn't need to stress with calling her as she would check in now and then. It was good to be updated on what to do, and he did hope his son would be a bit awake today.
Marco woke up around 8, him telling nothing had happened, Ace just sleeping and getting a refill to the thing in his arm, the blockade thing. Marco thought it was good Ace hadn't woken up, he did need rest.
Nothing much happened, the nurse propping her head in at times, but never staying, just making sure they were fine. When the clock was close to 10, a doctor came and did a quick look at Ace, telling it looked good and they would know more in a day or two, hoping to be able to send him to the next hospital tomorrow if Ace felt like it. It was good to know his son was fine, but Whitebeard did ask a bit on his recovery and what to expect, which was as he had thought, that it was going to take time and a lot of rest at the start, but that it didn't look like Ace would have any issues. The collapsed lung looked to be healing well and the equipment to it, which helped inflate the lung again, would be taken off later today on the way things looked. It was good to know things were going well.
It was when the clock was closing in on half past 11 when he heard Ace taking a startled breath, seeming to wake up, breath hitching. It had him move to hold Ace’s hand, stroking it. “It’s okay Ace, son, you're okay. Just breathe.” Ace managed to open his eyes and look at him. “ ...Dad..?” He nodded, smiling and moving a hand to his son’s head. “Yes, I’m here. Are you in pain?” Ace took a breath, a small sound being let out as Ace looked groggy. “ My legs… a bit…” Whitebeard nodded, and decided to try what the nurse had said yesterday and pushed the small button, making the tiny machine work more. He didn't know it would work so quickly. It wasn't more than a minute later, when Ace said it already felt better, seeming a bit more awake than yesterday, able to speak more coherent in a way. “How do you feel, son?” Ace moved to look at him. “ Tired… But, not the bad way. ” That was good to hear, and Ace turned his eyes to the left when Marco moved a hand to his arm carefully. “ You're still here too..? What about work?” Marco shook his head. “Of course i'm here still, yoi. You are more important than work. I want to be here with you.” It had Ace give a smile. He knew all of his children were fond of Marco, as he often stepped up to help whenever he could, being the one in charge when he was gone. He was stern, but he was fair.
They didn't speak much, wanting Ace to relax, and none of them asked about the accident, wanting Ace to relax. Ace seemed to be glad to be around them, seeming to be relaxed. But, when the clock was a bit past 12, there was a knock at the door and the nurse peaked inside, before smiling as she stepped inside. “Hello Ace, good to see you awake. I’m Nami, the nurse who’ll be here today. Are you feeling okay?” Ace gave a small smile to the woman. “ I feel okay, tired… sort of numb. ” The nurse gave a smile. “That is expected, and much better than you being in pain. Now, I am going to give a small refill to the blockade in your arm.” Ace gave a small nod, letting the nurse work, and when she was finished she gave a sigh. “I also bring some other ones with me, that’s waiting out on the hall, but they want to speak to you if you feel up to it. Do you?” Whitebeard wonder who it could be, knowingit wasn't one of his children as they were at school and work. “ Yes. Why do they need to speak to me? And who?” Managed Ace to get out, sounding confused himself.
The nurse sighed again, looking at Ace. “It’s the police, and I will be here too, as well as your family if you want, and if you want them to leave, just say so and I will fix that.” Ace looked more confused at that, even a bit scared, telling he wanted them here. The nurse then opened the door and 2 police officers came into the room, having a notepad with them. “Hello Ace, we’re sorry to interrupt. I’m officer Chase Smoker, and this is Jinbei Waters, we just have a couple questions.” Ace looked at the two officers scaredly. “ Hav- am I- have I done anything wrong? ” The second officer, Jinbei, quickly shook his head. “No no, nothing like that. You are in no trouble at all. We’re just here to ask what you remember from the accident if you feel up to tell. We want as much as we can for a final report. No matter what you say, or what you did, we know you didn't cause the accident. You are safe.”
That made sense in Whitebeard’s mind, and he knew Jinbei, having had him over now and then as he worked with Fossa, who also was a police officer. Ace looked less scared at that, giving a small nod. “ O-okay… what do you want to know?” Jinbei gave a smile. “Just what you saw, from the start, okay? If you don't remember, or scared to tell, you don't need to.” Ace gave a small nod, seeming to think for a couple seconds, Whitebeard giving a small squeeze with his hand, as a small comfort, before Ace started speaking.
“ I was driving from the movies, to let the others off… Then this car came… it had its full light on and I was a bit blinded and couldn't see too far, but I had control of the car! I knew I was right on the road! ” Whitebeard got Ace was nervous about saying anything wrong, but he knew his son had control, the officers not worried about that and didn't pay much attention to it, telling it was fine, he did right. Ace then took a breath before he continued. “ Then… I think Deuce yelled for me to move… and when I looked up, the car was heading right for me… then nothing… I maybe… I think… I woke up, I was stuck upside down I think… i heard Biggie yell…” Whitebeard saw Ace’s face getting more confused and scared. “I looked back and saw… saw… ” Ace’s face looked more horrified as his breath hitched, speeding up, sounding to almost be hyperventilating, making the nurse move closer. “ I… he… Kent! Kent! he… he was…. dead….oh my god… he was…. oh my god oh my god” Ace started hyperventilating more, tears going down his face as he choked on nothing at times, muttering the same over and over, trying to move his hand to his chest, making the nurse move to Ace’s side. “It’s okay, it’s over, just relax.” The nurse said as she took a needge out and injected te content into a iv looking thing on Ace’s chest, the two officers taking a step back, the effect of the medication was fast, and Ace’s eyes started closing as the muttering got lower, breathing evening out, and then Ace was asleep.
The nurse looked at the two officers. “That's your cue to leave, bye. You got enough. He needs rest.” The two officers nodded, Jinbei giving an apologetic look at him, before they left, not saying anything more. As they were gone, the nurse looked at the equipment and pushed a few buttons here and there, before she looked at him and Marco, Marco stroking Ace’s head and him holding his hand. “I was told by Doctor Robin that he might have seen one of his friends deceased, which can be traumatizing. I was sceptic in letting them in, but they had orders too. We have sent for a psychiatrist, which is mandatory in accidents like this, but she couldn't make it earlier, as we have one specialist in this and Whiskey’s memorial hospital to share. She would have been here, but she will instead meet you there tomorrow as another accident unfortunately happened.”
Whitebeard nodded. “It’s okay, we get it. But, this is normal? A normal reaction? Will he be fine?” The nurse gave a sigh. “Yes, this is a normal reaction, and I hope he will be fine when he wakes again, he might be stressed and have another panic attack as he remembers this. That’s not a sure thing, as he might be more relaxed then, I hope. But, call me when he wakes up again. Just in case. We want to be carefull, just in case. This is normal procedure.” Whitebeard felt a beath leave him, glad this was normal, that they had seen this before. He was worried this wasn't a normal thing, but the nurse had seemed prepared. “Thank you, Nurse Nami, for all the help.” The nurse smiled. “Just Nami will do, really. And, he will be asleep for a bit now, but not for too long I hope, maybe a few hours, which is normal.” Whitebeard nodded. “Thank you, Nami.” The nurse smiled, then she left.
As the door closed, Whitebeard gave a breath, moving a hand to Marco’s shoulder, who looked bothered by this. He knew this was hard, to see one family member injured like this and having a panic attack. Marco gave a small smile, hand at his face, sort of pinching the bridge of his nose. “Ace will be fine, son. He is a fighter.” Marco nodded, giving a somewhat shaky breath as he moved his hand away, having a bit of blank eyes. Marco might be the oldest of his children, being 29, but he was still young. Whitebeard was also really glad when he had stayed longer at home to help with the kids, it was a huge help, and he knew Marco would never leave the hospital, he wanted to be with Ace, just as he did too. Marco took another breath and looked better, moving to sit back in his chair, bringing his phone out, most likely to try and gather himself, maybe sending updates to the other older ones.
Whitebeard sat more back in the chair himself, still having a hand on Ace’s, figuring he could check his phone too, seeing a bunch of messages from his children and friends, and other he worked with. He used a bit of time to reply, telling Ace was stable and awake, but would be transferred to a different hospital tomorrow. Whitebeard knew Marco would join then, and he was glad for that. It made it easier to always have one with Ace, when one of them went for a break, buy something, sleep, or just stuff like that. He was also sure the other kids would visit when they could, but he wanted to wait a bit more, to when Ace felt better. From what he had been told, he would need another surgery at the other hospital, them having some other and better equipment to deal with Ace’s leg and arm.
Whitebeard was sure Ace would be fine. It would just take a bit of time. Ace was a fighter and he would be fine.
---x---
Marco gave a breath, sitting and reading some papers over in his chair, Ace still asleep. Pops had left a bit ago to get some rest, them also having a room at the hotel. Marco knew the man would like to be here, but he needed rest to do that, and from what the nurse had said, Ace would be asleep for a while. Marco really hoped Ace would be fine. The panic attack looked horrible, Ace realizing Kent had died. Marco knew Kent to some extent; he was a good kid. Marco just hoped his parents had it fine too, that all of the ones in this had it fine. They hadn't heard anything from the other 3 boys, or parents. But, then again, they all had their own injuries too.
When the clock passed 4, the nurse from the night, Vivi, came and refilled the blockade in his arm, telling she heard what had happened during the day, the nurse telling Ace might wake up in not too long, and to call for her when he did, just in case. Marco did agree it better to be safe now, to keep Ace from working himself up. He was sure that would be bad. He did contemplate to send a message to Pops, that Ace might be awake soon, but decided against it. The man needed a break himself to be the best for Ace now. When Ace woke up, he would send a message to Pops on how Ace was when he knew. Marco also got some fruit and a cup of coffee from the nurse, the nurse also placing a cup of water in the room with a straw, for when Ace woke up. It was important for Ace to drink.
As the nurse left, Marco moved his chair a bit closer to the bed, sitting on the left side, keeping the right one open for the nurse when she came to check things. It was silent after that, and when the clock was around 5, he turned to look at Ace when he heard him speaking, looking to his right. “ ...dad…?” Marco saw Ace had his eyes opened, looking to be tired. Marco first moved to pull the small rope, before he moved his hand to Ace’s head, making Ace look at him, eyes half closed. “ ...Marco..? Where’s… dad…? ” Marco gave a smile, stroking Ace’s head. “He needed some rest, I can call him if you’d like?” Ace gave a small shake of his head. “ ...no, it’s fine… I’m glad… you're here… ” Marco gave a smile, moving some hair from his face. “How do you feel? Are you in pain, yoi?” Ace shook his head a small bit. “ No…” That was good and Marco looked up when the door opened and the nurse came in, Ace slowly looking over too. “Hi, Ace. How do you feel?” Ace blinked once, before he spoke. “ ...tired… but okay..” The nurse nodded. “I’m going to ask a tough question, okay? Do you remember what happened? With the officers?”
Ace gave a small nod, his eyes going a bit blank. “ ...yes… Kent… he… died…” The nurse nodded, moving a hand to Ace’s hand, giving a comforting look. “I know that must be hard, but it is not your fault.” Marco gave a nod to that too, having his arm on Ace’s shoulder as comfort. “ ...I know… I just… he didn't… shouldn't have… died… ” The nurse nodded. “I agree, and it is sad. But, we can’t always choose this, and you are allowed to be sad about it.” The nurse then let out a breath. “We also need to transfer you, and we have ordered an ambulance for tomorrow, which will take you to another hospital, where they can operate on your leg. They have more experience with this than us, so we can’t do the surgery here. Just a couple hours drive, okay? Your father and brother will be right behind you.” Ace gave a small nod. “ Can’t… can’t they ride with me?” Vivi shook her head. “I’m sorry, but no. We need the two seats in the ambulance for ambulance workers. You need to be kept stabilized and pain free. A couple hours is very long if your arm or legs hurts.” That made sense and Ace nodded, making Marco agree with it. He and Pops could drive after.
The nurse stayed a bit more to take Ace’s vitals, before she left. When she was gone, Marco moved a hand to Ace’s shoulder. “Do you want me to call Pops, yoi? He can come back.” Ace seemed to think for a second, before speaking. “ H-how long since he left?” Marco looked over at the clock. “Around 3 hours, yoi.” That had Ace slowly shake his head. “ No, he can sleep… You're here, so I’m fine.” Marco nodded, glad Ace felt that. “Okay. Let me just send him a message about tomorrow, so he knows you’ll be transferred.” Ace just nodded at it, before moving to rest against his pillow, eyes closing. Ace was still tired, and would probably be for a while. Marco just hoped things would go fine, and the transfer would be pain free for Ace.
---x---
Whitebeard moved and stroked Ace’s cheek carefully. “We will meet you at the hospital okay? We will be there when you get there.” Ace gave anod at him and he moved away from the bed, making so the nurses and ambulance personnel could get Ace into the new bed, dragging it by the bed sheet Ace laid on, Ace seeming to be in a bit of pain as it did, but it calm down fast thankfully. He gave a last smile to Ace as he left with Marco, going to his car to drive after the ambulance, getting the ambulance number to follow, so they got the right one.
He was sure things would be fine at the other hospital, so Ace could get more help from others who could help. He could see Marco was worried too, but knew it would be fine, Ace would get through this.
---x---
Ace gave a breath, glad the nurse, Vivi, was with him as that walked to the ambulance. The nurse did chat with him, which felt nice. The nurse did ask if he was scared of elevators, which he wasn't, the nurse glad for that, telling many were, which made this ride hard as they needed to head down 3 floors. He liked the small talk, making him feel better. The ambulance people seemed nice to, being glad Marco and Pops could drive with them in their car, so they could be with him when he arrived at the other hospital.
When they got down on the first floor and they headed through a couple doors, he saw they were going to what seemed like a garage, seeing it had a couple ambulances there, one ready and on for him it looked like as it was on and doors open. But, as he saw the ambulance and heard its engine, Ace felt a weird feeling coming over him, feeling his breath speeding up. As they got closer to the ambulance, they slowed down, Ace hearing the nurse talking to him, but he couldn't her what, he could just hear the sound of the ambulance… to the truck… to his… car… being upside down… Ace felt his hands shake, not able to breathe as he could just feel himself trapped, hearing car sounds, shouting… hearing yelling…. seeing… Kent’s… blank empty eyes… Ace couldn't breathe, he could just hear the noise of yelling and cars and nothing… Ace tried to breathe, but couldn't, feeling… he didn't know, but he didn't like it.
Then everything slowly went dark, feeling he could breathe, glad to not see or hear that again.
---x---
Whitebeard sat in his car, wondering why the ambulance haven't come out yet, not seeing any ambulances actually. It didn't take this long usually, did it? Marco seemed worried himself, but Whitebeard tried to keep his spirit up, that they just said goodbye. When his phone did rang, and he saw the number to the hospital, he felt his spirit fall. It couldn't be good that they called. “Newgate,” He answered with as usual, hoping they would just say they were a bit late. He heard a sigh, before the nurse from before started speaking. “Hi, it’s nurse Vivi. I’m sorry to call, Mr Newgate, but.” A sigh again. “Ace had a bad panic attack as we got to the ambulance, we can’t transport him like that. The psychiatrist have been called and are on her way. Ace is back in his room again and I would suggest you two get back, so we can speak.” Whitebeard gave a breath, telling they would be right up, before he hung up, parking the car again as he spoke with Marco.
“Ace had a panic attack, they couldn't transfer him. The nurse want us up to speak.” He hoped they would tell why this happened. Ace had seemed fine when they left. Marco seemed worried too, not liking this. When they got back up to the room, the nurs met them, fixing a couple machines, Ace in the regular bed again, asleep. The nurse sighed. “I will just fix this again, then I will get a doctor, he wants a word. Ace is sedated, so he won’t wake for a bit.” Both of them nodded, sitting down in the chairs again, Whitebeard moving a hand to Ace’s hand, the other wiping away what seemed to be tear marks on the raven haired child. The nurse then left, before a doctor came in, having dark hair and looked to be in his late thirties maybe.
“Mr Newgate, I’m sorry to say we can’t transport Ace as he is now, we can’t have him panicked on the trip, as well as we need him awake in case anything happens, as he can tell what he feels. Specialist psychiatrist Andrea Amber is on her way here.” Whitebeard gave a nod. “Okay. Why did this happen? He seemed fine.” The doctor gave a breath. “We have a feeling he might have Post Traumatic Stress Disorder from the accident, or PTSD as it’s commonly known as. It can happen after traumatic accidents like this.” Whitebeard felt himself frown. “PTSD? But, isn't that something war veterans get?” The doctor nodded. “They are the ones who often get it, but PTSD can happen to anyone that has been in a traumatic experience. We often see it after fires in homes and car accidents like this. Most unfortunately don't know this, that one can get it from not being in the war. It is a hard and tough diagnosis to deal with. But, Doctor Amber is the best in dealing with this. I would suggest to wait for her as she can explain more.” Whitebeard nodded. “Thank you for the update, Doctor. But, do you think Ace will be fine?”
The doctor nodded. “PTSD is treatable and many does live with it, they learn to handle it. It does seem it is connected to being in a car, which is normal after accidents like this, so there is a chance he never will drive again, but many do recover nicely. We do hope to get him good enough so we can transport him, as we can't operate his right leg here, and that is our first goal. The psychiatrist will work a lot with you, and again, she is our best.” Whitebeard nodded, and the doctor left, leaving him to stroke Ace’s hair, seeing Marco looking worried as he looked at him. “How did this happen, yoi? He seemed fine.” Whitebeard gave a sigh. “It was a bad crash, and as we know, he saw one of his best friends die in it. That must be hard. I suggest we best wait for the psychiatrist, as she can probably inform us better. For now, I just hope he wakes up okay.” Marco nodded at that, agreeing.
Ace was still a fighter, and they would get over this.
---x---
When the next day came, it was nurse Nami that was the day nurse for them, the woman saying the psychiatrist was here and would come by soon. Ace was still asleep, having had a half difficult night with pain, but seemed to sleep well now. When the clock was 9, there was a knock on the door, before a woman came inside with a smile to them, closing the door carefully when she saw Ace asleep. “Hi, I’m doctor Andrea Amber, psychiatrist. Just call me Andrea please. How is Ace doing?” Whitebeard gave a breath. “He seem fine now. He was awake a lot during the night because of pain.” Andrea nodded. “It can happen, and he looks calm now. Do you want to speak here or somewhere else?” Whitebeard didn't need to think to answer that. “Here. I want to be close to my son.” Andrea nodded. “I understand. I needed to ask. First; do you have any questions?” Whitebeard had many, but one was more important than the others. “Do he have PTSD?” Andrea sighed, before she nodded. “It seems so. From what I read, he panicked both when he thought about the incident, and when he was close to a car, an ambulance. It fits with being PTSD. I don't know what he reacted on with the car, if it was the sound of th engine, the thought of being in a car, or the sight of it. It’s one of those three that is the main factor, or a bit of everyone. Many who gets PTSD from a car accident get better. Some may never be able to sit in a car, some drive again. I don't know which young Ace will be in, but we will work with it, and start with small steps. PTSD is something that is gained through traumatic experiences, and can happen with any kind of trauma, but car crashes is normal, same with fires. It is often accompanied with memories and flashbacks to the moment of the trauma- the crash- and we want to lessen that burden and flashes. Nightmares are common with PTSD, but as long as he is sedated, the dreams become less, so he can relax more.” That made sense and the woman seemed knowledgeable.
Whitebeard took a breath. “What do you think, Andrea?” The woman hummed. “I think he can and will get better. He might not be able to drive, but young victims often are able to sit in a car. We will start slow, and with that, I mean with pictures of cars. Please don't show him any without me as I need to see his reactions to be able to help. We use many small things, like pictures, toy cars, videos, and sound. Try and keep away from the topic, unless Ace brings it up himself. He can react without you speaking of it as his mind can bring it up in thought, which can be normal if something triggers a memory and many experience a fight or flight reaction- the panic attacks. If you see any signs of him panicking- breathing hard, eyes rolling, sweating- call a nurse. Better to be safe than sorry. Any more questions?” The doctor managed to answer many question he had with what she said, but he still had a few. “Is this normal? I've never heard about getting PTSD like this. And how long will he be here? Can we stay the entire time?” Andrea nodded. “This is unfortunately more common than you think. But as I said, it’s highly treatable and we will do our best. Ace still needs a couple surgeries, so you will be here for a bit, maybe a couple to 3 weeks. We hope to transfer him next week if possible. If not, we will call in the surgeons to come here. He can’t have the bars in his leg in for too long. And yes, you can stay here the entire time. We can only have one bed here because of rules, so one of you can sleep here, and you still have a room at the hotel. I will also be back in a bit as I need to speak with the nurses and doctors, to get the story better. Just call if you need anything, okay?” Whitebeard nodded, before the doctor left. It was good Ace would get better, and Whitebeard hoped Ace would be able to drive again; he really loved it. But if not, it was fine too.
---x---
Ace was up more the next two days, but was only awake for an hour or two, before falling asleep. He slept better at night, but still woke a couple times. They hadn't done any tries with the PTSD, Andrea having said she wanted Ace to be more awake first and feel better physically, which gave sense. Ace hadn't wanted to speak about it, but had at times needed some help calm down, Whitebeard sure it was because Ace was thinking about the accident. The other kids hadn't visited yet, as Ace still looked banged up, and they didn't want to worry the other kids. Right now, Ace was asleep and Marco had just gotten a call from someone, and it looked to be business based on his look. A few calls would happen as they weren't at work, but he hoped it would be as little as possible, for them and Ace.
Whitebeard looked at Marco when he hung up the phone with a sigh. “What was that about, son?” Marco gave a breath, moving his phone to his pocket as he moved a hand to his face, pinching his nose bridge. “It was Blenheim, yoi. The meeting we’re supposed to have tomorrow has been pushed to next month, or in two months. The meeting about generators and power supply from Daisuke’s Power Bank company.” Whitebeard gave an internal sigh. “I see. But, we couldn't join it either way, son.” Marco nodded. “I know, yoi. But, we really need that deal.” His son was right, but they couldn't leave Ace for a business deal right now, when he might have PTSD. Whitebeard was still a bit in denial, but hoped it was just something that could be fixed quickly. “I know, Marco. But, we need to be able to have the meeting, we need to be in our right minds.” They did as this was a deal they needed, and he knew Marco would understand that. His oldest son nodded. “Yeah, you're right. I still don't like it, yoi.” Whitebeard nodded. “I understand that. Was it Blenheim who postponed the meeting?” Marco shook his head. “No. It was them. They didn't give a reason, just said it was because of personal reasons.” That might be in their favor, as it wasn't their fault the meeting was postponed, Whitebeard knowing being able to keep meeting dates set, and this was planned months ago. “It will go fine, son. No matter what, I am most worried for Ace and as long as he heals, I don't really care about the other things.” While yes, it was a deal they needed, they could do without it too. They would find other deals with times.
---x---
The next day, Ace was awake for 5 hours straight, Andrea using that time to speak with Ace. “We need to do small steps, Ace. So, I think we will start with pictures. Does that sound okay? Or do you feel it is to soon?” Ace had nodded at it, saying he could try. Whitebeard did see the syringe in Andrea’s pocket, so she was ready in case Ace had a panic attack, which was good. As Ace said he could handle it, Andrea carefully brought up a paper that was folded, holding it in her arms. “This is a picture of a blue car, a small convertible. You unfold it when you feel ready, okay?” Ace nodded and took the folded paper, before taking a deep breath as he opened it. Whitebeard did move his hand to Ace’s good leg, holding it there for comfort. Ace didn't seem to react much as he looked at it, his eyes looking around on the car, before looking up at Andrea. “I feel okay, I think. It’s a nice car.” Andrea nodded. “It is. Can you tell me about it? What do you see?” Ace looked back at the picture. “It’s a blue convertible, as you said. Looks to have 5 seats and 5 doors… It’s a dark blue and it probably… probably makes lots of… sound… and….” Ace didn't continue as he took a breath, Whitebeard seeing tears in his eyes as he looked the image over. Whitebeard really hoped he wouldn't react to it, but it seemed he did. Andrea moved and took the picture away, before folding it again. “Good, you did good, okay. Just relax now, we’ll try more later.” Ace nodded, and Andrea frowned for a couple seconds as she was thinking, before she moved the syringe out. “I will just give you a little something to help calm down. And you should just relax, you're safe here.” Ace nodded, seeming glad about it, to get some help calm down. After it was injected into his Iv, it wasn't long before Ace was asleep, Andrea still in the room.
As Ace was asleep, Andrea looked at him and Marco. “I think most of the issues he has is with the sound of a car, which is second most common, after actually being in a car. He might have that too, but for now, I know sound is a factor. You should relax too, and maybe we’ll do another test tomorrow, he seem better today.” Ace did, he was at least awake for much longer and able to speak clearly. Andrea then left, and Whitebeard hoped Ace would get better.
When the next day came, Ace seemed even better as he looked more awake. He was still tired, but more awake. The nurses was still in a lot to make sure Ace wasn't in pain, both with his arm and his legs. Andrea hadn't been in yet, but she was probably not far away. Whitebeard was watching Ace smiling in bed, as he watched a video with Marco on Marco’s phone, seeming to enjoy it. He had thought Ace would be more bored, or more vocal about being bored, but he hadn't said much. It might be since he was tired still, but was more awake and managed to move his left leg more, but still needed a lot of pain relief still, which made him drowsy. Ace did even make comments on the video, a podcast weird news thing, Whitebeard never got things like that, but, Ace seemed to really enjoy it, the reason Marco got it up to show Ace a new episode was out. As the episode looked to be close to an end, there was a knock at the door, Nami opening and giving a smile. “Ace, there is a couple guys here that wants to visit you.” Whitebeard could see Ace frowning, Whitebeard hoping it wasn't those cops again, Ace didn't need more of them. The nurse gave a smile as she moved the door more open, making even him smile a bit at the two he saw.
“Ace!” Both Deuce and Biggie yelled, Deuce in a wheelchair, his left leg out as it had the same kind of external fixation on his leg. Aside from that, he had bandages here and there, bad bruises around, his nose and left eye still swollen and blue. Biggie only had his right arm in a cast and a couple bandages here and there, not seeming to bad, using his good hand to push the wheelchair Deuce was in.
Ace gave a smile at the two, really lighting up. “Biggie! Deuce! You're here too?” Both of them nodded, Deuce speaking before Biggie. “Yeah. We just didn't know you were too! Andrea told us you were here and here we are! Or, I just met Biggie now too and we just needed to see you.” Ace smiled. “What about Sanji?” Biggie snorted. “You know how his father is. He got a private hospital plane home, he got the same as me, so he could leave since Zeff is… well… himself, you know.” Ace laughed at that, making Whitebeard smile. he hadn't heard Ace laugh yet, it was the most wonderful sound he could hear now. The two came more into the room, Marco moving away so they could get closer to Ace. “How are you?” Asked Ace, looking at his friends, who just looked happy to see each other. Biggie answer first, giving a small shrug. “I’m fine. They just want to keep me since I got a bad concussion and to be sure my arm heals well.” Deuce gave a small chuckle at that, looking at Ace. “I’m more in your boat, we got the same leg! They are going to operate on it again in 5 days. It needs to heal a bit for some reason. Small sprain in my arm, a concussion, and bunch of bruises. I was just yesterday let out in this chair, I just needed to do something. You?”
Ace gave a small smile. “Lot of broken bones. My leg need another surgery too, I don't know when though…” The two other quickly got Ace to smile, who frowned a bit at the end. “Nah, they will when they can. It’s not that bad to have this metal thing. Better with the epidural thing for the pain. They tried a different thing at the start, blockade thing, didn't work on my leg and hurt like a bitch- sorry Mr Newgate- so they changed it. They said it work on arms better, and I got an epidural. That works wonders!” Whitebeard just shrugged at the swear, going to let it go since they were here for now. Ace gave a nod and smile, moving his right arm to his left one. “Yeah. I have one of those here. I can’t move or feel my arm.” The two boys looked impressed at that. “Nice. Good to know it works at that part. I’m happy with my epidural, cuz this really hurt, but my doctor said it would be better after the surgery, since the metal will be gone.” That had Ace light up, most likely glad to know it would be better.
When Biggie brought up his phone, telling he had something he wanted to show, Whitebeard stood up, looking at Ace. “Why don't we give you three some time alone? We’re just outside.” Ace gave a nod and smile, really looking much better and in higher spirits. When they got out on the hall, closing the door, he and Marco saw Andrea out there, smiling at them. “I guessed a visit from them would help.” Whitebeard nodded. “Yeah, he seemed to just light up and be so much better.” The woman nodded. “He’s in a tough spot, to see his friends and to see his not alone, can help a lot.”The woman then gave a sigh. “I also spoke to Biggie’s mother, she took me to the side. In 4 days, they are going to have the funeral to Kent Forest. I’m trying to get him released for a day, hoping he is well enough to be in a wheelchair as Deuce. But, I don't know what you think about it, I do think it could be good for him to join, I know the others are going.” Whitebeard thought for a second. “I’m not sure. I would like to speak with Ace about it first.” Andrea nodded. “I get that, and I would like the same, to see his reaction. If he seems to be up to it, we can do it before the other two leaves? So, he can see he won’t be alone.” That sounded like a good idea and he nodded, Andrea telling she would be back in half an hour, knowing the two boys wouldn't leave for a while; they had really looked forward to seeing Ace.
Whitebeard and Marco moved to the tv room close by, just sitting and enjoying a cup of coffee as Ace had fun. Whitebeard had seen Nami once, and she had given him a smile with a thumbs up, probably been checking in on Ace, and things were fine. But, half an hour later, Whitebeard looked over to the door when he heard a continuous long and loud beeping sound. When he saw the clock were the patient's room was listed, Ace’s room was beeping in a bright red, which had him worried. But when he saw multiple nurses run past the tv room, Whitebeard stood up as he had a feeling it was for Ace’s room. When he and Marco got out in the hallways, their thoughts was proved right as the door to Ace’s room was open, Deuce and Biggie in the hallway too, both looking shocked and worried. When the two saw them, Biggie was the first to speak. “I- I don't know what happened. We were just speaking and he suddenly just couldn't breathe. I panicked and pressed the red button.” Ace had had a panic attack again it seemed like, and it ad shaken the other two boys. Before Whitebeard could respond to it, Vivi came up to them, closing the door to Ace’s room behind her. “Ace is okay. Just a panic attack.” She then looked at the two kids. “Why don't you head back to your room, Ace can’t have more visitors today. Andrea can explain what happened, okay?” The two boys nodded, before they went on, giving a goodbye to them, Biggie helping push Deuce’s wheelchair.
As the two boys were gone, Vivi looked at them. “Ace will be fine. He just need to relax, and then you can come back in. They might have gotten on the topic about the crash, or just seeing them made him relive it. Andrea will speak with him later. Ace will be fine.” That was good to know. “What was the loud beep? Everyone looked to be running.” Vivi sighed. “They pushed the crash button, as in heart stop, as they panicked. Just sounded worse than it was.” That was also good to know, it had looked really bad. When they were let into Ace’s room again, Ace was asleep, and Nami, who was still in the room, said he would be for a while, and to just call when he woke up. Whitebeard would, and hoped things would be better, that Ace would be fine, that he didn't have more panic attacks, it looked so horrible for Ace.
But for now, they could only hope for the best.