[Ah, you knew it was too good to be true]

"Well, I'm all done," Nurse Dave remarked as he gathered up his things. "Someone'll be along in a bit to take care of you."

"Thanks, Dave," Chris said absently. His fingers were stroking Joe's hand. He wasn't paying much attention. Steve was, and he caught the wry smile the nurse had.

"So what happened?" Steve asked. He'd pulled out a notebook and pen. "Why'd you get carved up?"

Something flared inside Chris. He was feeling suddenly very protective. Joe had been hurt, when he wasn't there to protect him. He was there now, and nothing else was going to hurt Joe, not if he could help it.

"Steve," Chris snapped. "Not now."

"Yes now," Steve shot back. "You know the drill. Just 'cause you're jumping the victim doesn't mean we put this off."

"It can wait, dammit."

"It's okay, Chris," Joe said. He gave Chris a gentle smile and squeezed his hand. "My shoulder's numb, and I'd rather get this over with."

"Are you sure?" Chris asked. He was worried about Joe. Going over the details of crimes was tough, especially attacks like this. They'd had more than one person break down trying. Joe had already gone through enough.

"Boy, are you whipped," Steve remarked. He sounded amused.

"f**K you," Chris shot back.

"Not my job, man," Steve said.

"Can we just get this over with?" Joe grumbled. He was tired and achy, and feeling shook up. He wanted to get his things, go home, and curl up on the couch. Even if the couch was damned uncomfortable. It'd be worth it.

"I don't think