Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Whenever Gloria showed up, trouble wasn't too far.

Robby barely looked up as she came to the computer he was typing a chart on. He half wondered if he ignored her, that Gloria would just go away on her own. Like one of those people with the donation bells outside of Walmart. If he acted like she didn't exist, he wouldn't have to deal with her.

“Robby.” Dana stepped up next to Robby, putting herself between Gloria and him. He knew that his lack of reaction was driving Gloria up the walls, which was why Dana was stepping in. “I know you don't want to hear about whatever she needs to say, but it's important. It's about the new kids showing up tomorrow.”

This caught Robby's attention. Four kids were getting transferred to the pitt in the morning and he knew almost next to nothing about them so far other than their academic standings. He was going to read up on them after he got out of work, but Gloria didn't seem too keen on that as Robby met her eyes. She looked worried, but it was in a much softer way than she normally looked when something worried her.

“It's important.” Gloria simply said.

“Fine.” Robby stood up fully. He glanced around the ER and saw that for two seconds everything wasn't burning. He shouldn't count his blessings, but it would be enough time for him to get this over with.

Robby followed Gloria and Dana until they were behind the closed door of an empty examination room. It wasn't one that got used much, but instead one that typically had these types of things going down. Robby put his hands on his hips as Gloria cleared her throat.

“Have you looked at any of the personal information of your four students yet?” Gloria asked.

“No.” Robby shrugged his shoulders before doing a small head shake. “I don't need to until tonight.”

“Well, I'm going to fill you two in since you are going to be their highest leadership.” Gloria pulled a piece of paper out from the folder she was holding. She passed it to Robby, who squinted at it as Dana moved to stand next to him so she could read it.

The paper was a personal file. It didn't have a picture attached to it, but instead a description of what the kid looked like. Robby frowned at it as he looked over the information. The kid seemed pretty normal and didn’t have any red flags.

“This is Dennis Whitaker's file. He shows the highest potential grade wise, but-” Gloria started to explain, but Dana cut her off.

“He's an omega.” Dana's voice was light as she spoke, looking up. “And unmated.”

“With nobody associated with him in Pittsburgh.” Gloria didn't seem too upset at being cut off.

Robby read over the file and confirmed that was correct. The kid’s family was living in Nebraska and he didn't list any friends or anyone else on his file. He was completely alone in a notoriously busy city.

“Shit. Is he being supplied with patches and suppressants?” Robby looked up to Gloria.

“As the law says, yes. His school started to provide them to him the second he went into any medical classes. The hospital is the sole provider until further notice.” Gloria nodded and Robby felt some of the tension leave his shoulders. “His previous attendings made sure he got them routinely.”

An omega being in a medical practice wasn't common. It was even more uncommon for them to be outside of family medicine, gynecology, or pediatrics. If it wasn't for sexist practitioners, it was omegas simply not wanting to risk their lives in other fields. It became standard practice for the school and medical institute to provide free support to protect them five years ago. It took backlash and a string of violent attacks to bring the change. This student was one of the first few that he had seen try emergency medicine in nine years.

“We also have decided to keep his secondary gender private for his safety. He will pass as a beta so there is no added risk of an attack on top of the current risk factor. Nobody will be able to tell anyways with the patches, so it would only be that nobody talked about it.” Gloria continued. “He accepted it very quickly. He said he'd rather be here and everyone not know than losing his chance.”

“Who all will know?” Dana asked, her hand finding Robby's forearm. Robby didn't know whether it was to comfort her or himself from the worry that was seeping into them.

“So far outside of HR, just the other attendings, the guards, and you.” Gloria answered honestly. “The less people know the better.”

Robby felt uneasy. It wasn't the fact that an omega was working in his ER. He knew many omegas and they were some of the hardest working doctors and nurses he ever interacted with. It was the fact that it was being kept a secret and the kid's first experience in an ER will be one of the most fast paced ones in the area, which could quickly reveal the secret if shit hit the fan.

“I'll keep an eye on him.” Robby slowly nodded and handed the page back. “You already know how I get with the students, so it won't be anything new.”

“Our mother hen.” Dana said in a sing-song voice and a small laugh. She patted his shoulder as he didn't react.

She wasn't wrong. Robby knew that he was more protective towards the student doctors. He already felt like the ER was his to protect, but the student doctors always felt more raw. Like a fresh wound that stung when you poked it. He was the one looking over them and it was his duty to make sure they learned and grew to their best. He wouldn't let someone ruin that or hurt anyone under his care.

“Oh, we know.” Gloria raised an eyebrow and her mouth twitched into a smile for a second. “Try to not hover too much. He won't break.”

Robby rolled his eyes at Gloria. She meant well in that comment, but it was still to rile him up. Dana was a long time friend and coworker who he cared about deeply so it didn't irritate him as much. Both of the women were betas, so he didn't know if they understood how it felt to watch someone under his care get hurt or die. They didn’t know what it would feel like to him if something happened.

“Come on.” Dana squeezed his arm, leading him back out towards the door.

–

“Hey, Whitaker.” Robby called out before the scrawny kid could get pulled away by one of the residents.

Whitaker turned around, blinking owlishly at Robby. He looked different from what Robby had thought last night. Whitaker was rather lanky, but still had the muscle of someone who lived on a farm. He looked like someone dropped him in water and left him to dry on the sidewalk, which could be attributed to his big eyes and even bigger bags underneath them. It was rather endearing.

“Yes, Dr. Robby?” Whitaker clutched his notebook in front of his stomach as he stepped over.

“Come here for a second.” Robby motioned towards that same empty exam room that he was pulled into yesterday.

Whitaker followed Robby into the room, keeping an eye on Robby as he closed the door. Robby could see him fidgeting nervously, his eyes were now flickering around. Robby realized he probably thought he was getting in trouble, so he relaxed his shoulders and let out a small sigh. He needed to adjust how he came off to the new students - Javadi was also rather skittish as if the other shoe would fall.

“You're not in trouble. I just wanted to talk to you about something.” Robby let his arms drop to his side so he looked less intimidating.

“Oh! Okay.” Whitaker visibly relaxed and gave a small smile.

“Gloria told me about how we are presenting you as a beta and that you don't have anyone here.” Robby started and watched Whitaker closely as he spoke. The smile on the student’s face slowly faded. “You're under my watch and it's my duty to make sure all of you are okay. If you need anything, let me know. It can be rough being out in the world on your own, especially when you have to pretend to be something you're not.”

Whitaker blinked at Robby, his mouth parting slightly as he processed it. He didn't look embarrassed, more shocked at the words being openly said.

“I…” Whitaker started to speak, then coughed and looked down. “Thank you, sir. It has been a bit hard leaving my family.”

“I understand.” Robby nodded and put a hand on Whitaker's shoulder. Whitaker looked up at Robby with big and sad eyes that made his heart hurt. “Leaving your family is hard and so is being alone. But me and Dana are here to help.”

Whitaker gave a small smile at that. It made Robby feel slightly better seeing him not deflated.

“I can help do small things to stabilize you and don't hesitate to ask. In the past, I've worked with omegas in your situation and it's one of the ways they kept afloat. You won't be alone.” Robby smiled down at Whitaker.

“Thank you.” Whitaker’s voice was quiet as he repeated it.

“Don't mention it.” Robby patted his shoulder before using that hand to direct them out of the room.

–

Trinity didn’t know what possessed her to offer Dennis the extra room in her small apartment. She couldn’t tell if it was because he looked so helpless and worried or if it was because the two had spent over ten hours in hell together.

Dennis was one of the many coworkers in the pitt that she had felt drawn to. He was rather nice and could take her teasing without too much drawback. She knew the drawback didn’t come because he lacked self confidence, but she also could tell he enjoyed the back and forth after the third hour. Trinity quickly came to respect him after he continuously tried to keep his patient alive. Something in the way that Dennis kept trying and had so much faith made her realize how much stronger he was compared to the rest of them.

Trinity actually thinks that it is because after that, he had the strength to fight back at her teasing. It takes a lot of effort to blame yourself for death and then pick a fight.

Trinity watched as Robby hovered over Dennis on their second shift. She watched closely as Robby nudged Dennis slightly with his hand to take the pen from his hand and write in Dennis’s notebook. Trinity found it a little odd how Dennis was the only person that Robby didn’t seem to care about touching outside of Abbot, Dana, and Collins. Sure, he would take things from the others and he would pat people on the shoulder. But Robby openly would put his hand on Dennis’s shoulder before turning around and keeping his hands behind his back for everyone else.

Maybe besides Langdon. But Trinity noticed that Robby would just push Langdon out of the way. She blamed it on having to keep Langdon in his place. Trinity definitely didn’t like Langdon, especially after she figured out he was stealing medicine on her first day. She kept it to herself because she didn’t want to mess up his life just yet. He was a dick who drove her up the wall with every interaction, but in the end he had a wife and kid. She simply just mentioned it to Garcia, who shut her down, and filed it away with evidence cataloged.

Trinity watched as Robby patted Dennis’s head before walking away. She took this opportunity to maneuver around the desk and walk over to her new roommate. She stood directly next to him and invaded his space by peering in close at his notes. She could clearly see that it was just notes on a procedure she had watched Dennis make earlier for the first time, but she wanted to mess with him anyways.

“How’s Robby playing favorites going? He wrote something down.” Trinity tapped her finger onto Robby’s much better handwriting on the paper. She nudged her shoulder into Dennis’s also for emphasis. “Can’t believe that hardass is playing favorites in the first place. He likes you more than Langdon likes Mel.”

“Langdon practically adopted her within an hour.” Dennis snorted and batted her hand away. “Dr. Robby isn’t playing favorites. He just is being helpful.”

“Suuuure.” Trinity drew out the words before tilting her head and looking around the ER. Her eyes fell on a teenager whose nose was non-stop gushing blood in the entrance. “Fun has arrived, so I’m going to split.”

Dennis didn’t look up, he just snorted as Trinity didn’t wait to hear his response before leaving him.

–

Trinity watched as Dennis moved around her tortie cat, who was named Addie, with ease. He was carrying a bundle of laundry that looked bigger than what Trinity knew he owned. She peered at him as he disappeared into his bedroom quietly.

Over the last week, Trinity had noticed that Dennis had a few odd habits and quirks. He liked to hole up in his room after a longer day while on the more bad days he would linger in the living room. He also tended to scoop up Addie and bury his face in her fur as they watched TV, almost as if it would bring him more comfort. There had been two times where one of her shirts would get mixed in with his laundry and she wouldn’t get it back automatically - hell, she’s sure that he still has something of hers.

Trinity had also noticed the absolute lack of scent.

Betas tended to have very mild scents since their anatomy gave them smaller hormone glands. It wasn’t uncommon knowledge that betas only wore scent patches to work if they needed one, so at work it wasn’t noticeable at all that Dennis didn’t have a scent. Sure, the other betas had a very small scent to them and you could still smell the alphas through their own patches, but Dennis didn’t have one at all. Not at work. Not at home.

It worried Trinity. She should be aware of what he smelled like through hormones because they were roommates and he could smell hers. She could be reading the room wrong and he could genuinely be uncomfortable with her and didn’t trust her. A small part of her even wondered if he was one of the very rare cases where someone doesn’t present until they’re way into their 20’s. She would have known if he was, though. The other students have all talked about when it happened and he was actually the first to find out of the four of them and his brothers. She knew he had presented, so the fact that she couldn’t smell him was something that was making her worried.

Trinity rummaged through the cabinet under the sink before she huffed in annoyance. She forgot to buy more toilet paper and she had just used the last of the roll to clean up Addie’s hairball.

“Fucking great.” Trinity grit out as she stood up.

Trinity kicked the cabinet door shut before she walked out of her bathroom. She slid on her shoes that sat next to her bed and tapped the toes to make sure they would slip on correctly. Grabbing her car keys, Trinity walked out into the living room. She quickly saw Dennis laying on the couch with Addie on his stomach as he looked at his phone. Dennis glanced up at the sight of her and he frowned.

“Where are you going? It’s almost eight.” Dennis motioned to the window that peered into the night sky.

“I ran out of toilet paper. Addie hacked up a fat one so I used the rest on it.” Trinity shrugged. “Thought I’d run out and get some more before the stores close. We have work tomorrow and God knows when we will actually get out.”

“Just go get some from my bathroom.” Dennis shrugged and went back to his phone. “It's under the sink.”

“You sure?” Trinity felt somewhat bad. Dennis still didn’t have much money and she didn’t want to use his stuff up.

“It’s not a big deal.” Dennis shrugged.

“Thanks.” Trinity gave a grin. “I can’t wait to see all of the lovely cleaners you keep hidden from me.”

“Not that you’ll use them.” Dennis shot back as she passed by him.

Trinity rolled her eyes as she walked into Dennis’s bedroom. It was rather clean, besides his bed. The blankets were all piled up in a bunch and she could see a few pieces of clothing stuck in it. There was a mix of smells, all which she could tell were not Dennis. She ignored the smell and went into the small bathroom. She knelt down and opened the cabinet, peering inside. There were in fact cleaners that weren’t in the common area of the house. Dennis had claimed that some of them she wasn’t allowed to use so he hid them there. It was rather funny to her, but she let him do it. Trinity moved them over so she could reach the toilet paper tucked right behind them. She reached for one of the rolls but paused at the small box that was now revealed from behind the bottle.

Slowly, Trinity lifted up the small white box and turned it so she could read the side. Automatically, she recognized the brand as a popular omega heat and scent suppressant patch brand. Her finger lightly pushed up the box’s already open lid to see that there were some missing. She let the lid fall back down as she glanced and out into the bedroom. The pile of clothing and blankets amongst the clean room made sense now. It made his lack of scent feel like an obvious red flag. Dennis was an omega who was passing as a beta.

It wasn’t a big deal on its own. Things like this happen all the time. The world was still stuck in ancient ways in certain industries and the medical field was definitely one that had its roots nestled deep into the dirt. What worried her more was that he had been homeless and without a support system. Trinity didn’t even think she would be able to last on her own without at least one person to rely on. Her parents were an hour away and she could visit them whenever she wanted, so she wasn’t put in a bad situation. Plus, she had Addie to keep her company.

Trinity slowly put the box back and instead grabbed the roll of toilet paper. She closed the cabinet and kneeled there for a moment. She cursed underneath her breath before getting up and leaving Dennis’s room. He was still on the couch and Trinity could see Dennis look up at her as she walked over to the couch.

“Did you find the chemicals you oh so dreamed of seeing?” Dennis poked at her, but she didn’t give a clapback. She nervously gripped the roll and he quickly noticed it, which made Trinity worry about how she smelt suddenly. “You okay?”

“Uhm..” Trinity hated moments of weakness she felt. She didn’t know how to act because she never had to do this before. “I’m sorry… I found your patches and I just wanted to let you know that if you need anything, I’m here. And I won’t tell anyone.”

Dennis and Trinity stared at each other for a moment before Dennis let out a tired sigh. He looked miserable for a moment and Trinity hated it. She really hoped he wasn’t uncomfortable with her. He couldn’t afford to leave and she didn’t feel right thinking about him going back to sleeping on the eighth floor where he could get in trouble.

“Thanks.” Dennis looked away for a moment then looked back at her. “It's been rough. Not having anyone makes me feel sick. Spending my whole life with my family and then suddenly being alone feels like I’ve been stripped of anything to comfort me.”

“I totally get it.” Trinity nodded awkwardly. “I can uh… help though. You know, how friends will comfort each other and be close. I miss it a lot and I can tell you would need it.”

“That would be nice.” Dennis sat up, with little meows of complaints from Addie. He pet her as an apology. “I may have stolen a shirt for my room.”

“I noticed. I wasn’t going to say anything.” Trinity shrugged and her normal demeanor bled back into her. “Want to watch a movie?”

“As long as it isn’t horror.” Dennis gave a small smile and made room for Trinity, who immediately dropped onto the space next to him.

“Loser, those are the best.” Trinity scoffed with a smile and leaned into him. “What about a comedic horror? Like Shawn of The Dead.”

“I don’t know what that is.” Dennis admitted and Trinity looked offended.

“Really?” When Dennis nodded, she rolled her eyes. “Makes sense for a Huckleberry.”

Dennis didn’t gripe back and let her pull up the movie onto the screen. The two leaned into one another as the movie played. The two talked throughout the movie, laughing at the idiocy of the movie. Eventually, the two fell asleep as the movie continued on without them. Trinity only woke back up when Addie stepped on her stomach a little too hard. Her hands flew up on instinct to pick Addie up and hold her to her chest. Trinity blinked away the blurriness and turned to see Dennis resting his head on her shoulder. He looked at peace for the first time ever. She caught herself smiling as she watched him. Trinity knew that she had finally found someone she could finally find a family in. It made her feel happy that it was her turn to be happy.

–

“You did it again.” Langdon snapped as he turned to face Trinity.

“He was going to die! Would you rather that?” Trinity motioned towards the door and where the patient she had just saved was. She knew she did something stupid and didn’t ask, but none of the residents or Robby were around to help. It was a life or death situation.

“I would rather you not step out of line!” Langdon motioned towards Trinity, the air around them starting to tense. His words hit Trinity like a hot iron being pressed into her skin. Her back had a horrid tingle run up her spine and it went straight into her teeth.

“What line, Langdon? You weren’t even around! You ran off with Mel!” Trinity hissed at him and balled her fists. Anger was pulsing through her and she could smell the burning acid scent coming from Langdon intense at each word. “It’s nice knowing that you would rather that father was going to die.”

“Oh fucking hell.” Langdon spat back out. “You just want to feel all big and fit into a title you barely have.”

Trinity heard the door behind her open then automatically close. The small bit of fresh air did nothing to settle the smell of anger in the room. It instead felt like fire meeting oxygen.

“That’s what you do best. Have you forgotten how many times you have fucked up while I’ve been here? Go back to med school if you need an intern to help you with a basic technique.” Trinity tilted her head up and Langdon jolted forward.

“Why you-” Langdon was cut off before he could finish a step.

“HEY!” The sound of Robby’s voice cut through the room and suddenly the attendant was in between them.

Trinity turned to look at Robby, who looked pissed. She could smell the anger coming off as a sour gas fueled fire when he typically smelled like a warm fireplace. It made Trinity almost gag but she tried to keep her composure as she noticed that other people were there. Javadi was standing in the open door as Dennis had just walked up behind her. They looked worried with a dash of fear at the sight in front of them. It automatically stomped out the fire in Trinity’s chest.

“What the hell?” Robby’s voice caught her attention and Trinity looked back at him. “You two better explain yourselves.”

“She stepped out of line and risked a patient dying. Again.” Langdon ground the words out.

“All of the residents and you were busy! He was dying!” Trinity tried to defend herself. “It wasn’t even anything risky this time. He just doesn’t like how I made a decision without him breathing down my neck.”

Langdon jolted again in reaction, but Robby grabbed his shoulder. The two looked at Robby as he closed his eyes and took a deep breath. The older man opened his eyes and looked between Trinity and Langdon. Trinity felt shame crawl up her back as she realized how this was coming off.

“I’m sorry.” Trinity grit out, accepting defeat.

“No, you’re okay.” Robby shook his head and then looked at Langdon. “Dr. Langdon shouldn’t have started a fight over this.”

“What?” Langdon started to complain but Trinity could see how hard Robby was now gripping his shoulder. Trinity knew it hurt.

“She may have acted on her own, but you are out of line.” Robby drove the point home by enunciating his words. “Go take a break.”

Langdon looked ready to argue, but gave in and turned to walk off. The group of four watched him leave and a silence took over. Robby sighed before waving his hand in the air. Trinity glanced back at the other two students and noticed they were opening the door more so it could air out.

“You two made this place smell like a fire hazard.” Robby griped and Trinity snorted. Robby looked at her and softened visibly. “Are you okay?”

“Oh…” Trinity wasn’t expecting that. “Yeah. He was just pissing me off.”

“He does that.” Robby nodded then looked at the other two students. He seemingly debated on something before looking back to Trinity. “You and Whitaker go ahead and check on chairs. You two haven’t done that in a bit.”

“Yes, sir.” Trinity nodded and she numbly moved to Dennis.

Javadi moved silently and watched as Trinity grabbed onto Dennis’s hand so she could drag him away. Dennis went easily and didn’t complain as they walked through the ER. It was silent for a minute before Dennis spoke up.

“Are you really okay?” Dennis asked.

“Yeah. He’s just a dick. Wanting control and to hold it over my head.” Trinity huffed.

Dennis simply hummed before he bumped his shoulder into Trinity’s. She smiled and bumped him back, appreciating the small motion. It did make her feel better to be close to Dennis and know that they were both okay. They needed to be okay for each other.

–

It had been two weeks since PittFest and the med students’ first day there. All four of the students looked like they were expecting something bad to happen again, but they were all moving through it. It made Robby feel proud to see them all try their best after witnessing the worst.

Robby smiled slightly as he watched Santos help Garcia with a broken ankle. The two got along well, which is all that Robby could hope for when it came to Santos. She was a hot headed alpha who was also having a bad time getting along with Langdon and Javadi. The girl had a sense of justice and one hell of a moral compass that she hid underneath. She was a younger spitting image of Langdon, who also had the same issues. Hell, it was a miracle that Mel and Langdon got along in the first place. Mel didn't seem to care about any gender status or people's facades. It was a godsend that she was a beta. She only seemed to see the good in people, which meant she liked Langdon and Santos for their asshole alpha bullshit.

“Dr. Robby.” Whitaker was suddenly next to Robby, making the older man look away from the other doctors. He was standing closer to Robby than normal, which was automatically picked up. The student looked tired and way too stressed.

“What’d you got there?” Robby put a hand on Whitaker’s back, between the shoulder blades, and took the clipboard with his free hand. Whitaker didn't bat an eye, but visibly relaxed.

“A patient who is in pain and severely dehydrated.” Whitaker pointed at the chart. “I was thinking IV fluids and once he's better he can get something for the pain?”

“That'll be correct.” Robby let Whitaker take the clipboard back and patted where his hand sat. “Good job.”

“Thanks.” Whitaker gave a smile and only stepped away once Robby took his hand away.

Dana slid up on the other side of the counter and smiled at Whitaker as he rejoined Mohan and the patient. There was an approving look on her face before she looked up to Robby.

“Glad you picked up on that. He seems to be having a rough day.” Dana paused then nudged Robby’s arm with her elbow. “You should hover over him later and make him feel better.”

“I can try.” Robby wasn't opposed to it. He had been sticking closer to Javadi today because she had some rough patients and then he had to stick around Santos for a while to correct a mistaken diagnosis. It had been a rough day for everyone and he was doing his best to make sure the students were all okay. “I'll make sure he's doing okay in a bit. Mohan seems to be keeping him company today.”

“That girl can always sniff out the ones having a bad day.” Dana shook her head, laughing as she turned away. “She should have gone into psych.”

“Hey, it makes her better with patient satisfaction. She also has been seeing more patients since I got onto her. She is great here.” Robby felt the need to defend Mohan. He might be hard on her, but he truly saw her as one of the star residents.

“Mmmmhm.” Dana hummed before walking off.

Robby sighed as he turned to look back around the ER. His eyes locked with Santos’s eyes and her eyebrows creased. It was as if she was trying to dissect him. Garcia said something and Santos snapped back to paying attention.

Robby couldn't help but frown at the nonverbal interaction. Whatever it was, it felt off.

–

“Have you noticed anything weird with how Robby interacts with Whitaker?” Trinity asks quietly as she works next to Mohan on a patient.

Mohan, clearly caught off guard, looked up to Trinity. Her eyebrows were drawn and her face looked flabbergasted.

“What?” Trinity hissed under her breath as Mohan glanced around.

“You can’t just say that about an attending.” Mohan’s voice was way too low. “I’ve already shut down someone else earlier from saying something about them.”

“Wait, what?” Trinity frowned and felt something ugly bubble up in her chest. “What are people saying?”

“You’re the one who just asked about them!” Mohan shot back. “You live with Whitaker.”

“Yeah, but I stay out of his shit. He is kinda guarded about some things if you haven’t caught on.” Trinity made a pointed look. Mohan didn’t know about him being an omega, but she did know that he didn’t like talking about certain things.

“Fine.” Mohan gave in and leaned in. “Apparently people have noticed that Robby tends to hover around Whitaker when the kid is having a bad day. He also is more willing to touch him when comforting or praising. He’s obviously favoring but it’s confusing people.”

“It confuses me.” Trinity tried to speak through wanting to demand who is talking about it. This wasn’t good. “I just have a feeling that we’re missing something.”

“There is something, but I don’t think it is anything bad. Rumor has it that they’re just friendly outside of work. You know how you al….”

Mohan trailed off as she caught what she was saying. Trinity understood what she meant. The way that alphas liked to be closer to people they cared about and can be overprotective. The whole ER knew that’s why Robby hovered over the four new students. It was just Dennis that was a vast difference.

“Yeah.” Trinity nodded and the conversation dropped in favor of a new topic.

–

“Did you know that McKay and Mateo are actually just good friends and not fucking?” Trinity asked as she walked backwards next to Dennis, who was pushing the shopping cart.

“Why would you even think that?” Dennis made a face as he looked at Trinity.

“Everyone knows they’re really close. He hands out with her son! Her ex is hella jealous of him.” Trinity rolled her eyes and motioned with a hand like it was obvious. She didn’t understand why he wasn’t understanding it. She knew he was a bumpkin, but this was a bit too obvious.

“So… guys and girls can’t be friends?” Dennis raised an eyebrow before looking down at himself then back at Trinity. “I have some really bad news, Trin.”

“No, they can. You know what I mean.” Trinity turned back around to walk normally and shoved her hands into her jacket pocket. It felt weird to not have her stethoscope around her neck so her pockets were the next best place. “I just learned that they met in their first year of med school and her kid was around when they studied.”

“Huh.” Dennis didn’t seem too phased. “That’s cool actually. Makes sense.”

“Wow. You really don’t get how relationships are supposed to be like, do you?” Trinity raised her eyebrows. This guy was either way too naive or just assumed the best.

“I just don’t read into things much, I think.” Dennis just shrugs and grabs something from their list and puts it into the cart. “I’m not in on the whole betting thing.”

“Oh, so you’re not interested in what people say about you and Dr. Robby?” It slipped out before Trinity could stop it. She almost regretted it in the way that Dennis looked like she slapped him.

“What?” Dennis asked quickly.

“People are noticing him treating you differently. I noticed how close and touchy he is also.” Trinity admitted. “Rumors are saying you two are just close outside of work and he’s just being a mother hen attendant. I was just worried that there is more to it.”

“Oh..” Dennis’s mouth formed into a straight line.

“I’ll tell people to stop talking about it. I know Dana will also squash it if she hears about it.” Trinity reassures him.

“Thanks, Trin.” Dennis smiles sadly at her.

–

The second that Dennis and Trinity get home, they put the groceries away.

It takes them ten minutes at most to shuffle around each other and get things in their place. It was almost as methodical as them inside of a procedure and working as one. The two looked rather pleased as they kicked their shoes off and walked to the couch. Trinity sat down first, half sprawling across the couch. Dennis sat next to her, but then sprawled out in front of her. She wrapped her arms around him and sighed as they finally were off their feet for the first time in 12 hours.

Dennis reached for the TV remote and turned it on. The TV came alive to show some episode of Charmed. He shrugged and dropped the controller back onto the coffee table. Trinity wrapped her arms around him and settled into watching TV from over Dennis’s head. She enjoyed these moments and could finally relax with the warmth of one of her closest friends.

Chapter Text

“I’m glad you let me come over!” Mel grinned as she took her shoes off.

Trinity shrugged as she moved around Dennis to get to the kitchen. The two had invited Mel over because she was one of the only younger doctors that they both could stand to be alone with for more than an hour. They liked the company and felt like it would be a great night to have her over. Dennis also looked more restless, so it would benefit them all to have Mel come visit.

Trinity offhand wondered if his heat was coming soon. It isn’t like he would actually have to ride it out. His suppressants were professional grade and would practically remove them unless he wanted them. Trinity herself had never dealt with a heat before - her ruts were more like a beta’s period but less painful. She wondered offhandedly if she would need to invest in deodorizers soon.

“Of course.” Dennis offered Mel a smile. “We like you, so it’s only natural for us to hang out outside of work.”

“Or for us to invite you over to kill you and dump your body in the woods.” Trinity says with dry sarcasm. She was digging out an extra cup she knew was somewhere in the cabinets. Typically they only used two cups and two mugs because they didn’t have people over. No need to waste money on something they don’t need.

That might change, though.

“I don’t think Dennis has it in him to do that. But, I think he would help you so you do not go to jail.” Mel hummed in amusement as she followed Dennis into the living room. Trinity snorted in response.

“Hey, I’m more capable than her. I have butchered many animals before. Farm boy, remember?” Dennis motioned to himself and Trinity caught the sight as she pulled out the hidden cup. She squinted at him, which he noticed. “Don’t look at me like that. I doubt you would be able to muck a stall or wrangle a newborn calf that still has blood all over it.”

“Why would you need to wrangle a calf…?” Mel asked slowly, confused.

“You don’t want to know.” Dennis looked grim as he said it. Trinity made a mental note to ask him about it later.

“I will take your word for it.” Mel nodded and accepted the answer easily.

Trinity poured the odd mixture of different fruit juices and spices that Dennis kept in the fridge into the cups. She brought the cups into the living room and sat them down on the coffee table before collapsing onto the couch next to Dennis. Mel was in the small recliner they kept just for this kind of situation.

“Thank you! What is this?” Mel asked as she took a sip from the cup closest to her. “It’s good.”

“Oh, uh. My mom used to make it for me when I was a teenager. I wasn’t feeling good a lot and it helped.” Dennis shrugged. “She said she learned it from one of the farmhand girls who worked with us during the summer.”

“That’s cool! It reminds me of old medicinal practices. Some studies show that certain concoctions of spices can be a good substitute for some illnesses. Pseudoscience is still science in the end.” Mel looked rather impressed. “She probably came from a family who was more prominently omegas historically. They tended to use these than beta or alpha prominent families.”

Dennis looked slightly uncomfortable and Mel seemed to notice.

“Sorry.” Mel looked down for a moment before looking back up. “Not saying anything about you or your family. It's just a cool fact.”

“No, it’s fine. She was. I kind of miss her sometimes. She married young then mated and moved away.” Dennis explained. “I lost contact after that because she never looked back.”

“Mated at a young age? The marriage I can see.” Trinity questioned as she took her own sip. The drink was fruity with a fire to it. It was oddly good and she could tell why Dennis liked it.

“Yeah. Her family was pissed with her. It was why she left. It was taboo unless you were pregnant or planning to be at the age she was.” Dennis sighed as if the memory was tiring him. “Nebraska is weird.”

“You can say that again.” Trinity raised her cup as if to toast and took another sip.

The conversation shifted into a more comfortable topic after that. It felt nice to be able to sit and talk without the constant beeping of monitors and blood sticking to her gloves. It felt normal to have Mel in her house surprisingly. Almost natural. Trinity didn’t realize how much she had actually connected to Mel. Trauma bonding had started it and now Trinity was too deep in caring about her loser coworkers.

They weren’t losers. They were just awkward.

The conversation was interrupted by a crash from Trinity’s bedroom and Addie bolting out of it. Trinity cursed and put her cup down before rushing away. When she stopped in her bedroom she saw that her jewelry box had been knocked over; all of the contents scattered on the floor.

“Addie.” Trinity groaned as she kneeled in front of the mess.

As much as she loved Addie, she swore that cat was out to get her at the worst time. Trinity had to focus on steady breaths as she picked up each piece one by one. She needed to relax so she wouldn’t make the other two awkward. The last thing she needed was for Mel to not be comfortable around her anymore. She already had one doctor who hated her guts and possibly something brewing with another. She didn’t need a third one to make her job worse. It truly didn’t take Trinity too long to pick up the pieces, though. She could feel her irritation melt away as she picked up the final piece. She stood up and placed the box back onto her dresser, but more flat against the back.

Trinity turned and walked towards the door of her room. The soft lull of the conversation became more clear as she moved to stand in the door. She paused as she could understand the conversation and see them. Mel was holding her cup gently in her lap, both hands grasping it softly as they sat over her lap. Dennis didn’t look too far off, his eyes looking down at his own drink.

“I wanted to ask you something without her here.” Mel started softly. Trinity guessed they hadn’t noticed her yet. “Is that okay?”

“Yeah.” Dennis nodded and looked up to her with a smile. “I don’t mind.”

“Okay. Cool.” Mel nodded and took a small breath. “Dennis, I noticed a few things lately. Are you an omega passing as a beta? Not that I’m accusing you of anything. I just tend to pick things up more than others.”

Dennis looked shocked, almost more than he did when Trinity asked. He didn’t look upset, though.

“Is it that obvious?” Dennis squeezed his cup slightly.

“Oh! No, I promise you aren’t.” Mel shook her head quickly. “I just noticed how Dr. Robby and Dana interact with you and how you handle patients. You’re more personable with the patients than the rest of us, even some of the softer girls. You also have habits that are more particularly omega. And this drink.”

Mel lifted up her cup slightly and Dennis slowly nodded.

“Yeah. I am.” Dennis confirmed. Trinity walked out at this moment and Dennis glanced up at her as she joined them. Mel was slower to look up, but she gave a smile and a wave.

“It makes sense now for you two to be close also. I do not see guys warming up to you as quickly as he did.” Mel seemed to realize what she said and backtracked. “Not in a mean way!”

“Nah, you’re totally right.” Mel crinkled her eyebrows and smiled with a wave as she sat down next to Dennis. “I don’t typically find myself around guys anyways. They’re not really my type of company.”

“That makes sense for you.” Mel nodded in agreement. She then turned back to Dennis. “What’s up with Dana and Dr. Robby, by the way? We have been noticing how hands on they are with you.”

“See!” Trinity motions towards Mel. “Fucking weird, man. I mainly noticed Robby, though. That guy doesn’t seem to really like touching people unless he has to.”

“I think he is being respectable and doing his job.” Mel shrugged at that.

“It’s his job to make sure we’re all okay. I respect him a lot for it.” Dennis brought his cup to his face to hide behind it. “Him and Dana know. They help to keep me feeling regulated, just like Trinity.”

“Oh, that makes sense.” Mel took it at face value as Dennis took another sip. Trinity wasn’t as convinced.

“I don’t know. It just doesn’t feel right to me.” Trinity sighed. “There’s gotta be a better way to help than manhandling your student.”

“Gross. Don’t say it like that.” Dennis scoffed and leaned to put his cup down. “If that’s manhandling then you do way worse stuff to me.”

“That is gross!” Trinity pushes his shoulder in retaliation as Mel lets out a small cackle.

“I can’t believe I have been missing out on this.” Mel seemed way too amused. “Oh, wait.”

Dennis and Trinity paused to watch Mel take off her jacket. It was one that they hadn’t seen in the few she normally brought. Mel held it out and smiled.

“Here. For nesting.” Mel explained as she held it in the air.

Dennis reached out and took it from her. He put it in his lap and his smile grew as he looked down and then back up to Mel. Trinity couldn’t hide her smile that had formed on her own face. It was rather sweet of Mel to do that.

“Thanks. I appreciate it.” Dennis nodded.

“Of course.” Mel nodded back.

After a moment of silence, Trinity snorted and the other two looked at her.

“That is so sweet, I’m gagging. Truly a sight.” Trinity smirked and clapped her hands. “Want to drink wine and watch shitty movies now?”

“Yes!” Mel looked like she was ready to jump straight into it.

“Great.” Trinity pushed herself back up, grabbing her own drink. She downed it in one motion before she turned to walk off to the kitchen again.

–

Trinity laughed as Dennis made a face after he took his shot.

The two had a rather rough week and decided they deserved to get some greasy food and drinks. It was pretty late, so the two had decided on getting burgers at this one joint next to PTMC before hopping two blocks down to this bar down the road. It was a pretty shitty and cheap bar, one that they always got patients from, but they heavily handed their drinks and the bartenders were always nice if you weren't an ass to them.

Dennis gagged as he put his shot glass back on the counter and leaned heavily into Trinity. Trinity could smell the light scent of fresh bread and oats coming off of Dennis, a sweet undertone peaking through as the gag turned into a laugh. Dennis had taken to not wear his scent patches around her if they weren't going to be at work for a day or two. It was endearing and rather pleasant since he had such a light scent to begin with.

“Dude, it's vodka.” Trinity laughed as she slung an arm around Dennis’s shoulder and pulled him in close. “You're acting like you haven't taken shots before. I know you have!”

“It was mint flavored!” Dennis complained but laughed anyway. “You know mint flavored stuff sucks!”

Dennis was right. Trinity knew that any alcohol that was mint flavored tended to taste bad. It's actually why she chose it. She knew that Dennis had picked up party tricks in his undergrad years to win money from bets, which always ended up being alcohol based. The guy also barely gagged or got truly grossed out.

“Exactly why I chose it!” Trinity swayed them back and forth, showing her drunken state.

“You're the worst.” Dennis groaned before he shoved his hand into his pocket. After a moment he pulled out money, which was just enough to cover their tab and a tip. “We need to get going.”

Trinity boo’d Dennis but didn't complain as the bartender quickly took the money and made a shooing motion. The two got up, holding onto one another as they staggered to the door. They were giggling the whole time as they made their way onto the street and passed by amused pedestrians.

“How much do you think it'd take for us to get Mohan to come out with us?” Trinity asked Dennis as they made their way down the road. “Javadi isn't old enough and Mel doesn't seem like the type to be comfortable… but we could still try.”

“She would love it. I don't think Mel would go the first time. Maybe the second.” Dennis nodded and Trinity could see him scan their surroundings. “Isn't Javadi turning 21 soon?”

“She is, but we still can't bring her out yet.” Trinity leaned her wait into him for a moment. “Not risking her career for a drink, Huckleberry.”

“I know, I know.” Dennis shook his head with a small laugh.

The two walked in silence for two minutes before someone yelled out from behind them. They stopped and Trinity's eyes narrowed as a man jogged up to them. He was grinning as he waved.

“Finally got you to notice me!” The man stopped a few feet away. “Could I get your number?”

It was definitely not clear who he was talking to.

“No thanks.” Trinity shook her head. “Not interested.”

The man scoffed before looking at Dennis.

“And you?”

“Flattered, but no thanks.” Dennis gave a small smile.

“C'mon. Not even for a fun time? I know a place we can go!” The man insisted and Trinity rolled her eyes.

“Dude, we said no.” Dennis said, sounding slightly more sober than before. Trinity glanced over as she felt him straighten up. She could smell him souring slightly; just faint enough that the man wouldn't be able to pick it up.

“Let the chick speak for herself, fruitcake.” The man scoffed at Dennis before looking back to Trinity. “C'mon hun. Stop smelling like you don't want to be social.”

“Oh shut up. We said no nicely.” Trinity told the man. “Just man up and take the L. We just wanna get home.”

The man made a face at that. His eyes flickered between the two and Trinity guessed he came to some sort of conclusion.

“Are you two some weird asses or something?” The man asked.

“Or something.” Dennis responded in a dead tone.

“You think you're funny?” The man narrowed his eyes.

“Weren't you literally trying to just solicit a fuck?” Trinity snorted and Dennis shook slightly, holding in laughter.

“Man. Fuck you two.” The man seemed irritated by the turn of events. “Beta cuck and his fuckass alpha girlfriend.”

“Takes one to know one, I guess.” Dennis grumbled it as he tried to pull Trinity, who was now starting to get a little too irritated at the man, along.

“The fuck that mean?” The man stepped towards them. Trinity tensed up in Dennis’s hold.

“Exactly what I meant. Piss off.” Dennis’s voice had a sharp edge.

The man cursed and quickened his pace, raising his fist. Dennis practically dropped Trinity, sending her onto her ass, as he swung on the man. Trinity hissed in pain as her tailbone felt like it was shocked the second she hit the concrete. She pressed her eyes shut as grunts and growls joined the sound of a tussle.

Trinity opened her eyes to see Dennis and the man throwing punches. Something jumped in her stomach before forming a pit as she watched Dennis take a punch straight to the nose with a sharp crack. Dennis didn't seem too phased as he swung again at the man.

Anger filled Trinity in a way she hadn't felt in years. She pushed herself up and sprinted into the fight, pushing Dennis out of the way before ramming her shoulder straight into the man’s chest. Another shot of pain went through her shoulder as the man stumbled back.

“Ah, fuck.” Dennis gasped out behind her as she raised her fists.

The man stabilized himself before jumping to fight Trinity text. She dodged a punch before swinging her fist straight into the man's neck. He let out a strained noise, grabbing his throat in the process. He stumbled back, eyes wide, before gritting his teeth and kicking at Trinity. She got caught by his boot and fell again, this time her head hitting the concrete.

Trinity made a strangled yell as her head split with pain. She could hear the man fall to the ground with similar noises of pain as people started to yell around them. A pair of hands practically yanked Trinity off the ground and onto her feet. She swayed before the hands stabilized her. She blinked to see Dennis’s blood smeared face in front of her.

“We gotta go.” Dennis looked oddly sober now. “C'mon.”

Trinity let Dennis pull her along, tripping over each other as her head pounded. The street and store lights blurred around them with every step and Trinity kept hissing at the pain all over her body. She's never actually been in a fight before. Not a physical one where she was filled with short lived anger. She was used to yelling.

“Are you okay?” Trinity asked as she peered at Dennis. Blood was still coming out of his clearly broken nose. “That looks like it hurts.”

“I think it's fractured.” Dennis responded. She could hear his voice sound off. “I guess Dana and I will have something in common.”

“Oooh they're going to be so mad at us.” Trinity groaned as she realized their bosses are going to rip them a new one.

“Well, get ready because we're about to get some of it now.” Dennis spoke quietly.

Trinity blinked and focused her eyes to see that they were stumbling up to the ambulance entrance of the PTMC. Her stomach dropped slightly as her mind automatically went to how Dennis had a light scent around him now.

“Dennis-” Trinity started but Dennis squeezed her arm as if to silence her as they stumbled into the sliding doors.

“Holy shit.” Trinity heard a yell before she saw Ellis running up to them. “Someone grab Dr. Abbot!”

Trinity flinched at the noise and the bright lights as Ellis stopped in front of the two. Some of the nurses were running over, putting gloves onto their hands and ready to help.

“Are you two okay?” Ellis asked as she carefully put her hand on Dennis’s face.

“Peachy!” Trinity grinned with sarcasm at Ellis, which got her a look. “We got into a fight. Expect a very pissed just in bad shape guy coming in soon.”

“Great.” Ellis looked back to Dennis, her eyebrows furrowing as she inspected him.

“What the hell?”

Trinity turned her head to see Abbot running up to them. The nurses who were trying to hover and help moved out of the way for him. Abbot carefully pulled Trinity away from Dennis, which made her fear spike into an ugly feeling. Abbot paused for a moment, looking between the two before keeping her next to Dennis but still in his hold.

“Let's get you two into one of the rooms.” Abbot spoke carefully.

Ellis and Abbot brought the two to the room where Trinity remembered they kept that David kid in. They had put some more medical equipment in it since and used it as an extra place to put patients, or hurt practitioners. Trinity and Dennis were sat on the bed together and the two leaned into one another. Abbot closed the curtain in the window before moving back in front of Dennis.

“Want to tell me what happened?” Abbot frowned as he went to work on Dennis.

Trinity tensed and her hand quickly moved to put on Dennis’s arm at the sight. Fear went through her once again, her brain not making sense as she worried about Dennis being in more pain. Abbot glanced down at the hand before looking back up to Trinity. The two stared at each other before guilt settled into Trinity and she took her hand back. Ellis moved in front of her, catching Trinity's attention again.

“A guy picked a fight with us on the way back from the bar.” Dennis responded as Abbot inspected him. Dennis hissed in pain for a moment before continuing. “He was a real work. But at least we probably hurt him more.”

“Well…” Ellis trailed off and Trinity saw her glance at Abbot. “That's good at least.”

“You should have seen Whitaker, though.” Trinity grinned as she tried to not flinch at the pain in her shoulder as Ellis touched it. “He was hitting pretty hard.”

“Had to fight a few deer back home. Nasty assholes.” Dennis grumbled in response.

“And you didn't call for help or the police?” Abbot questioned. Trinity could practically taste in the air how worried and stressed Abbot was hiding.

“Nah. We were down the street. Knew our favorites would help us.” Trinity shrugged her good shoulder.

“Oh great. How reassuring.” Abbot gave a short and sarcastic laugh. “That's comforting.”

Ellis cleared her throat and Trinity looked up at her. Trinity could feel the discomfort and distress coming off of Ellis, even if it was mild. Trinity’s senses felt like they were cranked up as she could feel Dennis flinch next to her.

“What?” Trinity narrowed her eyes at Ellis.

“You two live together, I'm guessing?” Ellis asked. It felt like a deflection as Ellis’s hands took hold of Trinity's shoulder.

“Yeah. Since we both started working together.” Trinity nodded in response.

“You two are one of the oldest duos I wouldn't have guessed to exist in the Pitt.” Ellis offered a smile.

“Yeah. With Huck-” Trinity was cut off through a shooting pain in her shoulder from Ellis relocating her elbow. “Shit!”

“Well. That's out of the way. We can get you a CT without it hurting more.” Ellis patted Trinity's good shoulder.

Trinity groaned and leaned into Dennis, her head lightly knocking into his. Dennis’s hand found hers and she felt reassured by the touch. If it was anybody else, she would rush them to get one. But Trinity doesn't want to go get a scan when she knew she had a concussion.

“Do we have to?” Trinity peered up at Abbot, hoping he would give in and back her up.

“Yes.” Abbot gave a sarcastic looking smile. “Sadly, even drunk student doctors have to be examined like everyone else.”

“You suck.” Trinity grumbled and closed her eyes.

“Yeah? Well, you won't be saying that when you come back clear and you could have been unchecked with internal bleeding.” Abbot spoke and Trinity could smell his glee.

Trinity just grumbled as Dennis squeezed her hand. She just wanted to get pain meds, Dennis checked, and go to bed.

–

Robby stepped into the ED with a tight lipped frown on his face.

There were police officers standing next to one of the patients, who had bruises on his face. It was never a good omen to see police hanging around and it was an even worse omen to see his doctors and nurses nervously or angrily glancing at the guy. Robby thinks that being called in two hours early so Jack could take someone home was making his mood worse.

The doctors and nurses all glanced at him as he walked towards the nurse's station, where Ellis was typing something on the computer. Robby saw her pause before looking up with an unimpressed look. She seemed like she was examining him; gauging how the interaction would go. A sigh slipped out of Robby as he stopped in front of her.

“Where’s Dr. Abbot?” Robby asked and glanced around.

Ellis glanced towards a different area of the ED and Robby followed her look. The extra room, which locks from the outside, had its light off and the curtains were half drawn. Normally the lights were on with the door open, so the fact it looked like that with the door closed was a sign that something was going on. Robby looked back to Ellis, who was looking at him again.

“What’s with that room?” Robby pointed towards the room before he started to walk towards it.

“I think we should find Dr. Abbot first.” Ellis spoke up and jogged to catch up with Robby.

“And why is that, Dr. Ellis?” Robby didn’t look at her as he moved around a nurse.

“I think he would be better to tell you.” Ellis looked between the window and Robby. “Trust me, Robby.”

“Dr. Ellis,” Robby stopped and turned to Ellis, who halted next to him. Irritation licked up Robby’s back as their eyes met. “How about you go find Dr. Abbot and he can meet me over here, then?”

Ellis pursed her lips and nodded. Robby watched as Ellis turned and walked through the ED and towards one of the curtains. Robby turned back around and approached the window. When he stopped in front of it, he peered into the dark window. As his eyes adjusted he could start to see two people who were clearly younger than him laying on the single hospital bed. Robby blinked and leaned in closer, squinting to see the details.

Robby could see better now, which meant he could see it was Santos and Whitaker laying together. Robby frowned as he watched. They were asleep and clearly something had happened. They were in their outside clothing and Santos’s arm was wrapped in something. Robby could sense Jack before he walked up.

“Robby.” Jack spoke softly as he put a hand on Robby’s shoulder. “I thought you were supposed to stay at the nurse’s station.”

“When something was clearly wrong?” Robby turned to look at Jack, who was now smiling at him.

“You never were one for surprises.” Jack hummed and patted Robby’s shoulder.

“What happened?” Robby dismissed that comment and turned to look at the two students sleeping behind the glass.

“They were out last night and someone picked a fight with them.” Jack shrugged nonchalantly. Robby could tell Jack was pretty upset about the situation. He smelt like stale water versus his fresh smell that Robby couldn’t describe. “Santos had a dislocated shoulder, a bruised tailbone, and a concussion. Whitaker has a broken nose and a lot of bruising.”

“And you didn't call me, why?” Robby turned to frown at his life long friend.

“You sleep like shit as it is and I don't want you stinking up the ED with your fuss.” Jack rolled his eyes as he responded. “Besides. Their injuries aren't bad and they will be okay.”

“Still-” Robyn pushed but Jack cut him off with a pointed look.

“Michael. They're okay and they got the guy who picked a fight.” Jack stressed each word as he spoke. “I'm going to take them back to their apartment and that'll be that.”

Robby and Jack stared at each other for a long second. Robby knew that Jack had a good reason to not call him until now. He knew the two were okay, he could see them curled up together six feet away from him. It was the fact that the incident happened in the first place that was making Robby upset.

“They caught the guy?” Robby asked.

“He's the guy with the police with him.” Jack motioned to the angry looking patient. “And don't you go over there causing problems.”

“Fine.” Robby turned back to look at the two students.

Santos’s eyes were fluttering open as he focused on them. She squinted at the ceiling for a moment before she looked at Robby and Jack. Robby stared back at her as if they were in some makeshift standoff. Santos was the first to look away before she turned her head back into Whitaker's shoulder.

“Did you know they lived together?” Jack asked quietly, as if Santos would hear them.

“No. But I know they're friends.” Robby responded. It made sense.

“Found it out after they came stumbling in.” Jack patted Robby on the shoulder before walking to the door. “You should get to work. I have these two kids to get home.”

Robby didn't respond as Jack walked into the dark room without turning on the lights. Santos opened her eyes again and he could see her peering at them. She gave a weak smile before turning back to Whitaker and closing her eyes again.

“Are you sure?” Robby turned to look at Jack.

“Dude. Get to work. They will be okay.” Jack sighed softly as he started to look across the ED. “Nothing bad is gonna happen.”

“Okay.” Robby slowly nodded before turning and sparing a glance at the two med students.

Robby took a deep breath as he walked away, trying to stop himself from turning around. He glanced over at the police officers and he felt a slight pull at his chest. It was a bitter angry feeling knowing that behind the curtain they stood in front of was the man who attacked his med students. Robby shook his head and kept walking towards the nurse’s station.

–

“Oh my god, you’re okay.”

Trinity braced herself as she heard Mel rush up. The contact never came, but Trinity knew the sentiment was there as she turned to see Mel stop next to her and Dennis. Dennis gave a small smile in response to Mel.

“It takes a lot more than a hit or two to take us down.” Trinity grinned at Mel as she shrugged. It had only been a few hours and Trinity was still in pain.

“You guys shouldn’t be here. “Javadi frowned as she looked between Trinity and Dennis. “Robby is going to be upset.”

“Chill, Crash. The old man will live.” Trinity brushed off the younger girl’s worries.

“It’ll be okay, Victoria.” Dennis offered Javadi an awkward smile. “I’m sure it won’t be too bad.”

Javadi didn’t look too sure. In fact, the poor girl looked even more stressed. Trinity couldn’t blame her in all honesty, Robby was going to be pissed to see the two up and walking around the ED. Abbot had already given them a lecture about resting that Trinity nor Dennis planned to listen to. Who could blame them? They weren’t the type to stay still for too long - it was one of the things that let them thrive in the ED.

“Fine, but if Robby cracks down on you, don’t say I didn’t warn you.” Javadi mumbled it and Trinity rolled her eyes.

“Well, if it counts I’m happy you two are okay and here!” Mel beamed and Trinity flashed her a genuine smile.

“Thanks.” Trinity bumped her elbow into Mel’s arm. “Now, what spicy patients do we have today?”

“Well-”

Mel started to list off the different patients and Trinity only half listened. She watched as patients and other doctors moved around the ED. She was categorizing the different patients in her head - the more fun ones going towards the top of her list - as she watched Langdon walked out of the one guarded bay. Langdon locked eyes with her and Trinity kept a neutral face. That was the bay where the asshole that attacked Dennis and her was. Good to know the bane of her existence at work was assigned to him.

“Oh! Dr. Langdon!” Mel beamed once Langdon was close enough. He had made his way over.

“Dr. King.” Langdon offered a smile before looking at Dennis and Trinity, frowning. “You two shouldn’t be here.”

“Yet, here we are.” Trinity shrugged nonchalantly.

“We’re not badly hurt. No reason to stay home.” Dennis shrugged, echoing Trinity’s sentiment.

Langdon looked at Dennis and frowned. He reached a hand out and put it onto Dennis’s shoulder carefully. Trinity watched closely as Langdon held onto Dennis’s shoulder. It made Trinity feel sick to watch.

“Hey, don’t tire yourself out, okay? Your health is just as important as everyone else’s. If this was one of us, you’d be telling us to go home.” Langdon looked Dennis in the eyes, leaning in slightly to be at eye level.

“I’m fine.” Dennis shrugged and looked away. Dennis looked uncomfortable and stiff.

“Are you sure?” Langdon pressed.

Something ugly bubbled up in Trinity. The way that Langdon was holding onto Dennis’s shoulder and leaning in made it feel too close and personal. Trinity wanted to push Langdon away and she could feel herself metaphorically puff up. Mel was glancing between the two as Dennis looked more and more uncomfortable.

“What were you doing in asshat’s med bay? Trinity cut in suddenly, her voice sharp.

Langdon’s eyes snapped up and his hand dropped.

“My job.” Langdon straightened up and squared his shoulders. “Which, you shouldn’t be doing but here you are. So you should get to it before Robby sends you home.”

“Whatever.” Trinity grabbed onto Dennis’s arm and started to pull him away. “Let’s go see what’s up with that sprained ankle.”

“Okay.” Dennis didn’t push back as Trinity pulled him away. He returned Mel’s goodbye wave as they walked off.

After they got close to where the sprained ankle should be, Trinity let go. She took a deep breath.

“Uhg.” Trinity shook her head before looking at Dennis. “I don’t understand why people can stand him.”

“He’s not that bad.” Dennis shrugged.

“Sure. Yeah.” Trinity looked away and bit her lip for a moment. “Whatever. Let’s get this shift over.

Trinity pushed open the curtain and stepped inside.