Loungin with Louie!
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Deseos del Corazon

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This story is copyrighted to the author. Do not use, re-print, or copy without prior permission from the author. For entertainment purposes only. Special thank you to Miss Dani for her awesome  cover design!

Suzanne had been in the neighborhood doing community work for a local homeless shelter when she came across Ed Browns Garage. Her gas gauge was turning red and, knowing she would never make it back home with little gas she had left, she pulled in the garage and sounded her horn as requested at the sign near the entrance of the garage.

"Hello, I am in need of some gas."

Ed stood beside her car, wiped his hands and yelled for Chico.

"Chico, could you fill the tank for this young lady?"

Chico yelled from the back room. "Yeah hold on Miss I'll be right there. Sorry miss", Chico said, as he hurried over. "I didn't mean to make you wait." Suzanne looked up as he spoke to her. She saw his dear sweet eyes.

"Thank you, but I'm in no hurry. Go ahead and take your time." Chico mesmerized her with his black hair and brown eyes and what a cute smile. "M'm, m'm", she said quietly. "He's just too cute to be a mechanic."

Chico leaned over to wipe her windshield. "Pardon me Miss, did you say something?"

Chico caught her off guard. "You're a very good mechanic."

"Why thank you, miss," Chico said with a smile.

"Whew, that was close" Suzanne thought.

"My name is Chico Rodriguez. I'm Ed Brown's assistant. Nice to meet you."

Suzanne reached over and shook Chico's hand. "Nice to meet you too Chico, my name is Suzanne."

"Are you in town for business or vacation?" Chico asked as he checked under the hood.

"I'm here for business then I'll be taking a few days off to do some sight seeing around L.A."

"Really, huh? I'd be more than happy to show you around the area if you like?" Chico eagerly awaited her answer.

"That will be terrific Chico. I don't want you to get in trouble with your boss over the there."

Chico looked over by Ed. "Ed? Ed won't mind. I'm sure he'll be able to handle it. If it gets a little crazy, I'll have my friend Mando help him out."

Ed walked over to Chico. " Mando?" Ed yelled.

"Yeah Ed , you remember Mando , don't you?"

Ed shook his finger at Chico, "You mean that little Puerto Rican that told everyone I was unfair when you went on strike?"

Chico tossed a few rags on the bench. "Yeah Ed."

Ed raised his head in disbelief . "Just when you get rid of one another one shows up!"

"So Ed, is it ok that I can have a few days off?''

" Yeah, yeah Chico take a few days off. Take the whole week off I don't care."

Chico followed Ed to the office. "Listen Ed If you don't want me to just say so."

Ed thinks about it as he goes back to the car and shuts the hood. "Go ahead Chico, you and Suzanne have a great time!"

"Thanks Ed your the greatest" Chico said as he sat in the drivers seat.

"Thank you Mr. Brown, you're a very kind man." Suzanne said as Chico backed the car out of the garage.

Suzanne was thinking how cute Chico looked in his ratty jeans and tee shirt. As we drove through parts of L.A. and East L.A., Chico talked about what his plans were for the future. Suzanne did the same. "How about we stop here and pick up some Mexican food. I'd love to cook dinner for you, Suzanne."

"Ah Chico, that would be terrific but please let me help you with the cooking. I insist."

"No, no Suzanne, let me prepare it for you in honor of welcoming you here in East LA."

By the time we came back the lights were out. Ed had closed for the evening. "Ed and a good friend of ours, Louie, went out for the evening. So we'll pretty much be alone tonight." Chico said with a wink.

Chico, still being the gentleman, started preparing the dinner.

"Whose van is that Chico?"

Chico went to the van and opened the back doors. "It's my van, this is where I sleep. Here, let me help you in."

"Hey this nice," Suzanne said. "My compliments to the decorator."

Chico bowed to her. "Why, thank you, my dear".

Chico and Suzanne talked about life and relationships. She looked deep in Chico's eyes. "Chico I , I think I'm attracted to you. I mean, I think I'm falling in love with you."

Chico was quiet for a few minutes. He brushed his head with his hand.

"Oh Chico, I'm sorry I startled you, I shouldn't said anything about you so soon."

Chico turned to her and held her hand. "No Suzanne, you didn't startle me. I was afraid to mention it to you too, thinking it was to soon also."

Suzanne reached over to hug Chico. " Oh Chico, I am so relieved to know we have the same feelings for each other." Chico and Suzanne embraced, hugging each other for quite a while.

Chico spoke to her in Puerto Rican, "Mera mami, linda, oyeee!" Chico took hold of her hand and led her to the other side of him. "I'm so glad we met" Chico whispered in her ear. From there on things inside the van got a little heated up. A while later Suzanne heard something rumbling.

"Oh no the garage door!" she said very quietly. Chico on the other hand was to busy to know that Ed and Louie had just come back.

Suddenly Louie shouted, smiling from ear to ear, "Hey, look Ed, there must be an earthquake happening in Chico's van, 'cause I never seen it rock like that before."

Ed freaked. "What earth quake!" Ed frantically climbed the stairs and opens the roof flap. "What are you doing in my van!"

Chico got up , sticking his head out of the roof. "It's my van now remember, I bought it off of you."

Ed scratched his head. "Oh yeah, Still what are you doing in there any way? Get outta my garage!"

Chico eagerly showed him a deck of cards. "We are playing cards Ed, see?"

"Looks like strip poker to me " Louie said with a grin.

Suzanne got out of the van and spoke to Ed. "He's been quite a gentleman to me this evening, Ed. Here, let's go into the office and let me pour you a drink." She gave Ed a shot of whiskey that was hidden in a mock set of books. "Please Ed, Chico has been very good to me since we've met. I know he would never harm me." After a couple more shots Ed seemed to settle down a bit. "Please don't fire Chico, he's a great person."

"Ok, Ok, I won't fire Chico " Ed said. "I want to apologize for scaring you in the van. I hadn't planned on catching you two in the act," Ed said blushing. "Please have a full tank of gas on the house."

Chico whacked Ed on the arm, "Ed, you owe her more than a free fill up." Chico had mentioned to her how Ed had been a father figure to him since he's worked with Ed. Suzanne gave Ed a hug and a kiss on the cheek. Ed began to blush.

"I'm going to miss you, Suzanne" Ed said sadly. Suzanne gave Chico her forwarding address and phone number. She hugged Chico and kissed him for a long time.

"Chico, I will get in touch with you as soon as I get back in town. Then I will be with you and never leave you." As Suzanne put the car in reverse and pulled out of the driveway, she said to him, "Adios, Mi Amante Boruica."

A cool breeze came through the skies. Suzanne arrived at the ramp heading to East Los Angeles. The days seemed long and empty without Chico.

"I miss him dearly, " she said as she flipped through the radio dial. Love songs playing on the radio made her miss him more then ever. "I wonder if he's working today?" She pulled over to the nearest payphone. "I just have to hear his voice again." It had been a long couple of months since she and Chico saw each other. Phones were wonderful but too expensive. Grabbing some change she came across a note Chico left her the day they last saw each other.

"I will love you forever, Chico!'

"Ah, I will be with you soon mi amante boricua" she whispered. She waited as the phone continued to ring. "God, I hope everything is ok. Something must be wrong." She pretty much floored it from there on, holding her breath she would not get pulled over by the cops.

As Suzanne got closer to town, it started to downpour. It got dark real fast as night approached. She pulled in by Ed's garage door. Ed was closed for the evening. She ran to the door, pounding hoping someone would hear her through the heavy rain.

"Suzanne," Mando shouted. "Come in, come in. Here dry off in the rest room."

"Where's Chico?" she wondered. "Mando, I haven't been the same since I left. Is Chico... ok?"

"Suzanne, please sit down." Mando had her sit in Ed's office.

"What's wrong? Mando? Please tell me." She had a bad feeling come upon her.

Mando knelt beside her. "Chico hasn't been the same since you left. He became very sad and depressed. He knew someday sooner or later you two would see each other." Mando tried desperately to calm her down. "Chico left to be with his father in Puerto Rico. His father wanted him to work in his business."

She looked away. "So he isn't coming back?" She wept.

"Yes, Chico will be here at the end of the month!" Mando said with a smile.

"That will be in a few days!" we both said together.

"Suzanne, Chico was struggling so much he had been visiting Reverend Bemis regarding his sadness for losing you, and for him to at least keep his faith together."

She became more upset. "It's all my fault. I shouldn't have left." Mando put his hand on hers.

"Believe me Suzanne, it's not your fault. Chico had been going through some rough times with his father. Chico felt he had to be there with him." Mando reached over and hugged and comforted her thinking " Hmm, what would make Chico want to leave because of Suzy? Just having her in my arms would please me."

Mando finally calmed her down. Suddenly Ed came from a pick up. Ed ran into the office when he heard her crying.

"Suzanne " Ed happily said. Suzanne got up and hugged Ed.

"Ed, I've missed everyone."

Ed took off his hat. "I'm so happy to see you again." The phone started to ring. "Excuse me, Suzanne. Ed's Garage."

Chico was on the line. "Hey Ed!"

"Chico?!" Suzanne looked on. Ed talked to Chico for a few minutes. "Hey Chico, Suzy's here. She's missing you and thought something bad had happen to you. Here, Suzanne. Chico would like to talk to you." Ed handed the phone to Suzanne and left the office.

"Chico," Suzanne cried with excitement.

"Suzanne, I have spoken to my father so much about you. He knows you are all I think about. Suz, I have something I wish to ask you, I can't wait to I get home."

"Chico, go on" Suzanne said.

"Suzanne, my father wishes to meet you. Suzanne, will you marry me?" Chico said with a hint of fear.

"Yes, oh yes Chico! I would be more then happy too."

"Suz, my father has given us his blessing and has accepted the fact that I enjoy working with Ed more than tending to his business."

"I can't wait till I arrive at the airport. I have something for you from my father."

"Oh Chico, everyone has been so kind to me. Mando has been quite the gentlemen lately." Suzanne seemed much happier after hearing Chico's voice.

"Really?" Chico said. "Is he still here?"

"Yes, hold on. I'll go get him."

Mando picked up the phone. "Hey Chico!" Mando sound excited.

"Hey Mando thanks for taking care of Suzy for me. She sounded like a wreck."

"Man, you have no idea". Mando said. "Hey, how about I make it up to you? Name it."

"Hey Chico bring me back a case of Madalia and we'll call it even."

"You got it !" said Chico.

The day arrived. Chico's flight was scheduled at 11:00am. Ed, Louie, Mando and Suzanne waited patiently for his plane to land.

"Look!" they all shouted as his plane pulled in the gate. Suddenly a flood of people started coming through the door. "Where's Chico? Has anyone seen Chico yet?" they all said one after the other.

"I see him!" Suzanne shouted. Suzanne ran to greet him.

They embraced one another. "I love you Suzanne!" Chico said with a smile.

Ed, Louie, and Mando hugged Chico and welcomed him back. "It's great to have you back." Ed said cheerfully.

"Yeah Chico, It hasn't been the same with out you! Welcome back!" Louie said as he tugged on Chico's shoulder.

"Hey Amigo! Cervaesa, Cervaesa!" Mando cheered with excitement.

"Yeah Mando. I haven't forgotten. It's in my suit case" Chico whispered. They were happy Chico was back for good.

"Mando," Chico said quietly, "Thank you so much for your understanding of my leaving and taking care of Suzy for me. I hope she wasn't too much trouble when she realized I left."

Mando held his shoulder and said. "She's a very sweet girl. Chico, if it came to the point of you never returning back. I'm sure I would have had her by now. I'd have to admit Chico, her sadness had an effect on me." Chico looked at Mando with a smile and concern. "We both missed you Chico, you've been like a brother to me. Suz became very vulnerable and almost had me. Suzanne realized how much she loved you, Chico, to go that far. You've got to understand Chico, your absence was hard on everyone."

Chico looked very sorry and almost wanted to cry. "Mando, I am so sorry I put everyone in so much hell" said Chico.

"Hey Chico, It's over, we are very happy you returned. We love you. Now where's my cervaesa! Man I could use a cold one."

"Ok, ok when we get home and unpack we'll get together and drink, just us guys," Chico said.

Everyone got Chico's bags unpacked. Chico said good night to Ed and Louie. " Good night, Chico," Suzanne said. "Good night, my sweet heart," Chico said as he kissed her.

Later that night Chico and Mando caught up on what had happened with them while they were apart. "I'm so sorry I've caused so much pain with everyone here."

"Chico, it was a rough time since you've been gone. Suzanne was insisting it was her fault things happened the way they did. She looked sad and pitiful," Mando said sadly. "I mean it was hard not to make a move on her," Mando said fearfully. "I hugged her and comforted her when she was crying all the time. Chico I came very close to seducing her." Mando hid his face thinking Chico was going to slug him. " Chico," Mando said

"I am over her now."

"Oh God, what have I done." Chico cried. His tears swelling in his eyes. "Mando, just for the record I'm not in any means disappointed in you," Chico said as he cried. "She had every right to except your invitation of sexual desire. I was a fool for leaving her and everyone who loved me."

The morning came, and Chico rose from a restless night. He had tossed and turned thinking about Suzanne and everyone who loved him. "I've got to call Reverend Bemis and speak to him," he said quietly. Chico went to the office and dialed Reverend Bemis." Reverend Bemis, this Chico Rodriguez."

"Chico, my son, God has answered my prayers!" Reverend Bemis said with great joy.

Chico spoke quietly," Reverend Bemis, I have had a wonderful time since I returned. Yet I feel a sense of deep sadness." Chico tried to hide his feelings.

"Chico, my son, please ask God for forgiveness. HE will grant you peace. He will lift up your burden." Chico wiped the tears from his eyes. "Yes, I will ask God forgiveness. Then I will see Ed, Louie, Mando, and Suzanne. I will ask for their forgiveness also."

Chico called everyone and asked them to meet at the garage around 5:00pm. Everyone showed up as Chico requested. "Everyone please sit down." Chico paced the floor. "Please, I have something I must say. It has given me heartache regarding my sudden absence. I am so sorry I caused everyone so much pain." Chico was shaking as tears came down his face.

Suzanne came to hug him. "God has reasons for his actions," Suzanne whispered in his ear. "He will never leave us."

As the weeks came and went, everyone became closer and spent more time with each other. Ed helped Chico turn the tire room into an apartment for Chico and Suzanne. Ed respected their privacy and was happy that they were still near enough to be together while he and Chico worked together.

Everything seemed to be going well. Ed's business was thriving. Chico and Suzanne were happier then ever. Chico's best bud Mando offered to help him out more at the garage. Ed couldn't have been happier.

"Hey Chico", Mando whispered to him. "What's up with Ed? He's normally not this happy when there's so many Beaners around?"

Chico got hold of his arm and took him aside. "Ever since I came back he's a whole new person."

"Really," said Mando. "Not that gringo!"

"Really Mando, it's true!" Chico said seriously. "Hey listen Mando can you cover for me. I have to go across town and pick up Suzy at the Hope House."

"Hey Chico, I know where that is. How about if I pick her up for you? I have to go to that side of town anyway."

"Well", said Chico, "I do have to finish up here. I had promised her I'd pick her up before dark."

Mando put his arm around Chico " I don't have a problem with it Chico. I'd be more than happy to spare you some time." Chico then gave Mando directions to the Hope House, a local homeless shelter where Suzanne worked.

Suzanne had just finished her rounds when she heard what she thought sounded like Mando's low rider. Suzanne looked out her window. "Hey, sure enough," she thought. "Chico and Mando got here just in time!"

Mando knocked on Suzanne's door. "Hey Suzy, ready to go?" Mando said with a big smile.

"Yes Mando, very much so. Where's Chico? He had planned on picking me up."

Mando opened the passenger to his car. "Chico got behind on his schedule. I offered to pick you up that way he would be able to finish tonight."

"Well Mando that was really sweet of you," I said as I kissed him on the cheek.

"Ah Suz, anything to help out a good friend."

"Hey Mando you souped up your low rider. I love it!"

Mando started the car and pulled out. "It sure is a nice evening tonight." Mando said with a big grin.

Yes, it sure is," Suzanne said as she rolled her window down. The cool night air felt good on her face as Mando cruised towards East Los Angeles.

Mando took a good look at Suzanne as she leaned against the half open window. Mando scoped every inch of her seductively. "Suzy, remember when you were so upset and I offered my shoulder to cry on?"

Suzanne leaned over closer to Mando. "Yes Mando, I remember very well."

"Suz, every time you came to me for comfort, I really enjoyed having you in my arms. I mean it really felt good."

Suzanne turned to Mando and put her hand on his. "Mando, you been very supportive during my sadness when Chico left. Thank you."

Mando got irritated. "Suz, I don't think you understand. I am having strong feelings for you. I know you love Chico and he loves you dearly. Damn it!" Mando said as he slammed his hand against the steering wheel. "Suz, I am falling in love with you."

Suzanne looked shocked. "Mando, I admit when I was sad and worried about Chico, I really enjoyed your company."

Mando stormed out of the car and started to pace back an forth. "Suzy, please don't tell Chico I told you about how I feel about you." He leaned over to Suzanne and kissed her passionately. Suzanne was so confused she started to cry. "You know Suz, I did tell Chico that if he had never came back I would have already had you." Mando was hysterical.

"Oh my God. Mando, I almost felt the same way. Yet I had some hope that Chico would return."

Mando jogged over to Suzanne's side of the car. "Damn it, Suzanne, there's more to your life than Chico and I want to be a part of it." Mando hopped back on the car and kissed Suzanne passionately again, this time fondling her. He couldn't get enough of her.

"I was afraid of this," Suzanne cried.

Mando leaned over to her and hugged her. "Suzy, I'm so sorry."

Suzanne finally settled down. "Mando, I think we better get going," Suzanne said as she wiped the tears from her eyes. "Chico is probably worried sick about me now. Seeing as we are running late."

Mando started his car and took off back to the garage.

Mando and Suzanne had finally arrived at Ed's garage. It was past midnight. The light was still on. "Oh please get me through this," Suzanne said to herself as Mando into the garage.

"Hey, is everything ok?" Chico asked. Suzanne just couldn't face what was going to happen. "Suzanne," Chico hugged her, "you look tired." Chico said with concern.

"You don't know the half of it," Suzanne said sadly. "Chico, we need to talk."

Chico led Suzanne into the van. They sat in the passenger seat. "Chico, there's something I think you should know."

Chico sat silently, his eyes fixed on Suzanne. "Yes, Suzanne? What is it?"

Suzanne leaned over closer to him. "Chico when you left, I became very vulnerable. Mando was there for my comfort when you were gone. I had no where else to turn."

"I know, Suzy. Mando told me the night I returned back for Puerto Rico."

Suzanne had a sense of fear come upon her. " Chico, did he tell you that we almost had..."

"Yes, Suzanne, he told me everything." Chico opened the van door and let himself and Suzy out as Mando was entering the storeroom.

"Chico there's something you need to know why I was late tonight."

Chico was cleaning some tools. "I was wondering what had happen to you guys. Why, what's wrong?"

Suzanne started to cry. "Mando took a different way home and pulled over by the Hills. He stopped the car and got emotional with me."

Chico stopped what he was doing and looked at her. "Go on," Chico said.

Suzanne went on about how Mando was feeling about her when Chico went to Puerto Rico, and how emotional she got. Chico looked at her with concern. "Chico, he told me he loved me and when I came to him for comfort during your absence, he enjoyed it."

Chico sat down. "Are you sure he wasn't being polite about it?" Chico tried to find any excuse not to blame Mando of anything.

"Chico, he kissed me and touched me at the Hills on the way home! He's very much in love with me," cried Suzanne.

Chico looked confused. "Please Suzanne stay here, I want to go find Mando and straighten this whole thing out!"Chico went on a manhunt for Mando after finding out he had kissed and touched Suzanne. Chico cornered Louie. "Louie, Louie!" he shouted, "Have you seen Mando? I need to find him."

Louie put the can down he was dumping.

"Mando has been after Suzanne. I need to find him," Chico said while pacing back forth.

Chico found Ed. "Ed, have you seen Mando?"

"He's on a run. He should be back short back shortly."

Chico sat at the workbench emotionally drained from what had been happening to him. "Ed, I'm going to the van to think for a while. Please, if Mando comes back, I would like to talk to him".

Ed turned to him and put his hand on Chico's shoulder. "I'll let him know Chico. You go rest for a bit".

Silently, the door slowly crept open. Mando silently eased his way in the garage. Mando kept walking backward, trying not to wake anyone up. When Mando turned around there was Chico standing there, arms folded. Waiting for him with fire in his eyes.

"Oh my god!"

Chico got right up in his face. "You pendajo!" shouted Chico.

"What are you talking about, Chico?" Mando said with fear.

"You know what you did to Suzy. You kissed her! You, you touched her and told her you loved her!"

"Chico, let me explain" pleaded Mando. " I'm sorry I took advantage of her during her sadness. I thought, we all thought you were not coming back!" Mando said. "I felt I had to comfort her when you split to Puerto Rico!"

Chico kept gripping his belt to keep him from slugging Mando. "Mando, you know I still love her. She is all I think about."

Suzanne arrived at the garage, running to hug Chico. Mando looked on.

"Chico, I missed you please hold me," Suzanne said. Chico was hugging her and whispered "I love you" in her ear. Mando came in between and pulled them apart.

"What are you doing Mando?" said Chico.

"Please Suzanne, I must be with you. You are all I think about," Mando pleaded with her. Chico looked at him like he'd seen a ghost. He couldn't believe what he was hearing.

"What? Mando, get over it!"

Mando tugged on Suzanne. "I can't, I won't.

"Mando we have known each for so long, I don't want to ruin our friendship." Chico took Mando aside and told him how much Suzanne has been good to him and how he would be lost with out her. Ed stopped Mando and told him how Chico had changed since Chico and Suzanne first met.

"Mando you're a good employee and a decent person," Ed looked very serious at Mando. "Chico has shown more respect to all since their relationship first blossomed, Mando. Please, I hate to see what would happen to Chico if he lost her."

Mando waved his finger at Ed. "Listen Ed, I know if I try harder she will come to me instead of Chico. When she was hurting, I enjoyed having her in my arms. She held me for quite a while. I know she has feelings for me, but won't admit it. Suzanne!" Mando yelled.

"Leave her out of this, Mando" Chico screamed. Suzanne hung out by the garage door.

"Suzanne, who do you love more ME or Chico?"

Suzanne went between them. "Listen, you two are fighting because of me. You two have been friends for a very long time. Please, please." she pleaded. "Don't ruin your friendship because of me." Suzanne went to Ed. "Ed, I have been thinking, I think I should just get out of here and never return. I have caused so much strain on everyone since I've been here."

"Suzanne," Ed replied. "Please don't go we'll miss you. I'll miss you. Please if you want I'll have a heart to heart talk with Mando and Chico. Something is bound to change after that. I really think Mando knows how much you and Chico mean to each other. I just hope nothing tragic happens because of it."

Chico and Mando had an understanding about each of their relationships concerning Suzanne. Chico and Suzanne's love grew stronger as they were together more. Ed was feeling much better now that Chico and Suzanne's relationship was back to normal, or so he thought.

"Amigo, amigo," yelled Mando as he arrived for work early today.

"Good morning Mando," Ed said as he slammed down a shot of whiskey. "Chico , I need you to come and check some paper work," Ed said eagerly.

"Ok, ok Ed. I'll be right there." Chico went into the office and double-checked the papers. "Ed, thanks for being there for me and letting me stay here still after what we all went through lately." Ed sat down on his desk and took hold of Chico's arm.

"You know Chico, I remember when you rode your bike here. A young chubby Chicano. Now you've grown into a responsible young adult." Ed scratched his mustache. "If only I can say that about Mando."

"Why Ed?' asked Chico.

"Well, Chico, I think he's troubled about something. He seems very distant. Chico, are you sure he's over Suzanne?" Chico stopped repairing.

"Yes, Ed. Mando gave me his word."

"Ok, ok Chico. Still I'd keep my eye my on him," Ed said seriously.

"Ed, he told me himself he has changed. If it means that much to you, I'll keep an eye on him". Chico reassured Ed.

The thunderous sound of Mando's low rider entered the garage. " Hey Muchacho!" yells Mando.

Chico walked over to Mando. "Hey, hey, your back early that's great!"

"Thanks Chico I had a good run."

Ed yelled out from his office. "Hey, Chico, someone called about a delivery guy's truck breaking down. He can't make it over here. Can you go across town and pick up those mufflers for me? "

"Ok Ed, I'll leave in a few," Chico said anxiously.

Mando and Ed worked on some inventory till way after closing time. A horn sounded coming in from the driveway. "Hello everyone," Suzanne said happily.

"Hello Suzy" Chico said. "I'm feeling good about us. I love you and will always cherish you forever," he whispered in her ear.

Suzanne leaned by his ear and said "I will always love you Chico. Chico, I've had a rough few days. Do you mind if I turn in early?"

Chico hugged her tightly. "Not at all Suzy. You look tired. Please go rest. I will see you later". Chico kissed Suzanne's forehead and wished her goodnight. Chico tucked her in bed then left for the mufflers.

"Mando", Ed said with a yawn, " I'm going to hit the hay myself."

"Ok, Ed, have a good night." Mando kept himself busy by cleaning up the garage. Later in the evening the phone rang. "Ed Browns Garage" Mando said tiredly.

"Mando , that guy never showed up with the mufflers."

" Damn" said Mando. "The guy just called and said he'd be there in a few hours."

Chico didn't know it but Mando had this all planned so he could finally be alone with Suzanne. "Ah," said Mando with a curious grin. "Knowing Chico, he won't be home for hours. He'll get tired and pull over and nap for a few hours. I think I'll visit Suzy!" Mando quietly opened the door creeping inside so he wouldn't wake her. Looking into the bedroom, he saw Suzanne sleeping soundly. "Ah, this is my chance to really have my Suzanne," Mando whispered. Mando carefully undressed leaving only the hair on his back. He carefully eased his way in bed. "Oh my god!" Mando said quietly. "We are together at last!"

"Suzanne," Mando whispers.

Suzanne, still exhausted, said, "Chico, you're back."

Mando put his finger over her mouth. "Shhh" whispered Mando. He started to kiss her and caress her.

"Chico, I have missed you!" Suzanne barely said.

"Shhh", whispers Mando. He started to seduce her without her knowing it was Mando instead of Chico.

"Oh Chico, Oh Chico!"

Mando was enjoying this. "Yes, I have finally got her," he said in his mind.

Chico finally arrived back from the long drive back. He walked by the bedroom and heard noise coming from there. Suddenly the bedroom door slammed open.

"OH MY GOD !" Chico screamed.

"What? What the ....... Mando! Get off me!" Suzanne yelled. Suzanne pulled away and fell to the ground crying thinking she was with Mando instead of Chico.

"I could hear Suzanne yell my name while you tried to have sex with her. You had her thinking it was me!" Chico was furious.

"Chico, I called your name and he never said it wasn't you. I was exhausted. I had no idea it was Mando."

Chico paced the floor and grabbed Mando. "Mando, your a dead man!" Chico said.

"Shut up, shut up Chico. I was able to screw Suzy without you knowing it ! I am very happy to admit she enjoyed herself!"

Chico looked like he was going to kill Mando. " Get outta here before I kill you!" Chico slugged Mando in the jaw. "You Bendajo!"

Mando grabbed his clothes and took off running. "Suzy, my God are you ok?" Chico hugged her to comfort her.

"I have never been so scared in my life. I had no idea Mando planned this. I had no clue he was after me again, honest."

Chico held her close. "I know Suzy we all thought he would change. Still Suzanne" Chico had her sit down in the van. "I need to know something." Chico looked straight in her eyes. "Do you have feelings for Mando?"

"Chico, I'm..."

" Suzanne, tell me please. Do you?"

" No, Chico, I almost fell in love with him while you were gone. His warmth and comforting as he hugged me made me feel safer at one time."

Chico held her chin. Listen Suzanne, I love you, but I think I'm going to have to do something about Mando."

As the morning approached, Mando drove by the back end of the garage so no one knew he was around.

"Ed, I'll be back in a bit. I'm getting us some breakfast."

"That will be great Chico, thanks. Hurry back."

"I better get going! " Chico bent down to get the morning paper. As he got up he felt something cold against his back. "My money is in my back pocket man."

"I don't want your money!"

Chico turned slowly. "Mando?"

Mando waved the gun in his face. "Why did you have to ruin it for me and Suzanne? She hates me now because you interrupted our love making! Man, Chico that was suppose to be our moment together."

"You're sick, Mando. Suzanne and I are in love! When are you going to realize that?" Mando got up in Chico's face. "There's only one person for her and it's me! I will see about that!"

"Now, how are you going to do that?"

"I'm going to kill you."

"Mando, you can't be serious! Killing me isn't your answer!"

" Shut up! Shut up!" Mando shouted.

Chico tried to calm Mando down. "Hey I knew you were loco but not that loco!"

"Hey, what's all the commotion about?" Suzanne as she headed in Chico's direction.

"Mando, what are you doing? Put that gun down! Let's talk this over."

"NO, I won't. I'm going to kill Chico so you and I can be together."

"Mando, please don't," Suzanne cried. "Please I love Chico!"

Chico went from behind Mando and grabbed him. They both wrestled to get the gun off each other's hands.

" Chico, Oh my god! Look out!"

"Gimme that gun Mando" Chico tried desperately to remove it from him.

"Not on your life Chico!" Mando struggled.

* Smack* Chico slugged Mando. Mando turned over. His gun went off. Chico lay still from the force of the gunshot. Mando rolled off Chico.

"Crap that pendajo is still alive!" Mando said angrily.

Chico turned over looked at Mando then Suzanne. "What the..... Suzanne! Suzanne was lying in a pool of blood. "Suzanne!" Chico cried as he ran to her. "Mando, how could you do this! OH MY GOD!"

"Suzy, please don't die. God, don't let her die!" they both shouted.

Mando leaned over Suzanne. "Oh damn, I never meant it to happen this way."

"You killed her Mando!" Chico cried.

"Wait Chico, she's still breathing!" Mando said. Mando held his head in his hands. "I never meant to hurt her, the gun accidentally went off!"

Soon the sounds of sirens were coming closer and louder. Ed ran out to see what the commotion was all about.

"Oh dear God" Ed said tearfully. The paramedics carried Suzanne into the ambulance. Chico followed them inside. Suzanne drifted in and out of consciousness. Suzanne struggled to talk. "Mi Amante Burouca."

Chico leaned over and kissed her. "Shhhh. you need to keep your strength." Chico grabbed her hand and stroked it slightly. "Suzanne, I love you. We will be together forever! Mando is going to jail for attempted murder."

"Chico, I love you dearly. Please tell Ed I love him too." Suzanne closed her eyes and tilted her head.

Chico cried and kissed her good bye. "Good bye my sweet Suzanne. You will always be in my heart."

 

Chapter 2

As the ambulance drove Chico and Suzanne away from Ed's garage, Chico kept rubbing Suzanne's forehead and kissed it as they were rushed to the hospital.

"Why, Suzanne? Why did you have to leave me so soon?" Chico whispered as tears streamed down his face.

A paramedic grabbed some equipment and began to perform CPR on Suzanne. Chico leaned back, still hoping for some small miracle. The monitor showed no sign of life.

Chico, confused about the day's events, began to pray silently.

"God, I know I'm asking for miracle. Please find it in your heart to save Suzanne. I know the gun went off by accident. The cops took Mando away thinking it was him. I've known Mando for a long time. I just don't think he really would of wanted to shoot me or Suzanne."

Chico had a horrifying thought come over him.

"For all I know I could of caused that gun to go off."

Chico's mind raced with confusion.

Suddenly Chico heard one of the paramedics call the other one over.

"She has a pulse!" the paramedics announced. "She's becoming conscious, I'm checking her vital signs." The paramedics increased her fluid in her IV.

Chico looked stunned. "What? She 's alive!? Is she going to make it? " Chico with tears in his eyes, leaned over to Suzanne to get a closer look.

Suzanne's face was covered with an oxygen mask, tubes leading to her nose and mouth along with lines of wires strapped on her to check her heart rate.

"Barely, sir," said the attendant. "She'll need to be operated on to remove the bullet lodged in her lower abdomen."

"She 's a fighter, she'll survive." Chico, excited about her possibly coming back to life, smiled as he held Suzanne's hand to kiss it gently.

The ambulance pulled into the hospital emergency entrance. The paramedics hurried Suzanne in the emergency room as doctors and surgeons waited from hearing the report.

Chico began to follow them into the hospital. The hospital was busy with emergency victims. People scurried everywhere. Chico quickly followed the paramedics as they made their way through the emergency room.

"Is this the shooting victim?" the nurse asked as they wheeled Suzanne on by.

"Yes, she has a wound on her lower abdomen," said the paramedic.

"Take her to Emergency Section 3. The operating room is getting prepped for her surgery," the nurse informed them.

Chico continued to follow them, trying not to be in the way. Chico was in shock to see her in this state. "God, I hope she pulls through this." Chico hurried with them as fast as he could till he got grabbed from behind.

"I'm sorry but you'll have to wait here," said the head nurse.

"But I must be with her..." Chico pointed in the direction Suzanne was being taken as the nurse gripped Chico's arm and pulled him away from the emergency operating room door.

"I'm sorry, I can't let you in there, You'll have to wait here," the nurse said sternly. "Please sit down. Someone will be with you shortly".

Another nurse came to comfort Chico. "Please be patient sir, the doctors are doing all they can right now. Waiting is the hardest part. You will be informed of her condition as soon as possible," the nurse said as she guided Chico to the waiting room.

Chico sat on the chair, hunched over. His arms rested on his knees as his hands covered his face to hide his tears.

Chico cringed at the thought of losing her again. Chico folded his hands, looked up and stared as thoughts of Suzanne raced his mind. Chico continued to cry silently. He began to reminisce about their time together. Quietly he heard background music that reminded him more of her.

"...Nobody else could ever know, the part of me that can't let go.

And I would give anything I own, give up my life, my heart , my home.

I would give everything I own. Just to have you back again.

.... Is there someone you know, your loving them so,

But taking them all for granted. You may lose them one day,

Someone takes them away and they don't hear the words you long to say..."

Chico began to shiver from the thought. As he heard a popular song reminding of there love for each other. "Why?" Chico thought. As he covered his face with his hands.

"Chico, Chico!" Ed and Louie arrived to find Chico at the waiting room.

Chico rubbed his eyes as if hoping it were a dream, and slowly looked up.

"Oh God, I'm so glad youre here!" Chico cried as he got up and hugged Louie and Ed. Chico's face buried in each of Ed and Louie's shoulder.

"Son, how is she?" Louie asked as he gripped Chico's arm.

"She's alive. Barely. They were able to revive her in the ambulance," Chico said as he wiped his eyes.

Ed came and sat next to Chico and handed him a cup of coffee. "Here, Chico."

"Thanks Ed, Louie. I just can't believe this in happening." Chico looked at Ed.

"I know Chico. I heard the gun shot and as I ran to see what the commotion was all about, I saw her lying still. What happened any way?" Ed was concerned.

"Ed, Mando was basically trying to scare me by threatening to kill me. I don't think Mando really wanted to shoot me. We've been so close, we're like family," Chico cried.

"You know Chico, love can do a lot of things to people. I realized how obsessed he was with her the night before the shooting. Mando got angry with me and told me he would do anything to have her," Ed said as he watched the TV monitor.

" Hey, they're saying something about it on the news.... Listen!" Louie pointed to the TV.

"Breaking News... A Shooting occurred in East Los Angeles this morning. The shooting took place at a local garage owned by an Edward Brown. Police are investigating the crime scene. No word yet on the conation of the victim. Police have a suspect in custody. No charges have been formally made as of yet..."

Chico and Ed stared at the television as the news showed a picture of Mando after he was arrested.

"God, Mando looks terrible. He looks upset," Ed said as he shook his head in disbelief.

Chico angrily got from his chair and stood directly in front of Ed pointing to the TV.

"WOULDN"T YOU!" Chico angrily said as he paced back and forth.

"What?" Ed looked up at Chico.

"Ed, how would you feel if you were all of sudden arrested for attempted murder?" Chico gripped his head and flopped back into the chair across from Ed.

"Ed, as I was riding in the ambulance I kept thinking, I might of accidentally done the shooting, I mean, it all happened so fast Ed"

Chico held on to the arms of the chair tightly to keep from throwing a fit of rage.

"Mando and I were wrestling with each other. I was trying to keep him from shooting. All I know that there were times when that gun was in our faces. I remember our hands together on that pistol. I was trying to grip it off of him, as he was trying to aim at me and shoot Suddenly we heard the gun go off. I don't know about Mando. But I didn't see or hear Suzanne come out side."

Chico was frantically shaking. "Oh God, what if I shot her? I'd never forgive myself." Chico covered his face in shame.

"Listen to yourself Chico. You're not making any sense. What ever happened out there was an accident, regardless if you or Mando did it."

"Some how Mando being locked up at the cop shop, Ed. Doesn't seem like an accident to me."

"According to the cops, they've already locked him up and thrown away the key. Maybe I better go down to the cop shop and tell them it was an accident. Especially if it was my fault. What if they end sending Mando to prison? I'd never forgive myself for that!"

Chico got up and paced the waiting room floor.

"Not now Chico. If Mando finds out your there, he'll be furious! Wait till the morning," Ed tried to explain to Chico.

Quietly and slowly a doctor approached Ed, Louie and Chico.

" Who here is a relation to a Suzanne..."

" I am Doc. We are or were engaged to be married." Chico hurried over to the Doctor.

" Son, are you Chico Rodriguez?" The Doctor asked.

"Yes, why?" Chico worried.

"These are her personal items. I thought you might want to keep them." The Doctor handed Chico Suzanne's handbag.

"How is she Doc?" Chico said as he accepted Suzanne's bag.

"She is in intensive care. The surgery went well. She is drifting in and out of consciousness right now, however Chico, there is something you should know. Please sit down."

"What 's wrong Doc? Is she going to be alright?" Chico said as the Doctor guided Chico to the sofa.

"Chico, there's a very strong possibility Suzanne may never be able to conceive or carry a child due to the bullet wound."

Ed, saddened, put his hand on Chico's shoulder, and rubbed Chico's back to comfort him.

"Suz had always talked about having children. We joked around, naming our baby Ed or Edina if it was a girl. She was always fond of you, Ed." Chico wiped the tears from his eyes.

"Now Chico, don't talk like it will never happen. There's always a possibility Suzanne still might be able to conceive or you can even adopt a child," Louie said as he sat next to Chico.

Chico opened Suzanne's bag, took out her wallet and opened it. Chico found the picture taken of the him, Suzanne and Mando together.

"I remember when this was taken. We all seemed to be happy together," Chico said as he showed it to Ed and Louie.

"That was taken after she came back. Shortly after I arrived back from Puerto Rico," Chico said.

"I'm surprised you and Mando still remained friends after what he did to you two," Louie said.

"Yeah, well I thought Mando changed. Then I caught him in my bed with her!" Chico became angry.

"How do you think he could of pull it off pretending to be you, Chico?" Louie asked.

"God only knows Louie. She was very exhausted I know that for a fact. Anyone could of climbed into bed with her and she wouldn't of known it. She was out like a light according to Mando."

"Chico, what's done is done, you can't change the past," Ed said.

The doctor was reading Suzanne's chart.

"Can I see her doc?'" Chico asked.

"Yes, but make it brief. She needs her rest. And Chico please...Don't say anything to her about the injury. That will devastate her and she could go into shock and possible cardiac arrest"

Chico, fearing what could happen, started to make his way into ICU.

As Chico entered ICU, he saw all the equipment around Suzanne's bed.

Chico nervous about her condition sat next to Suzanne and brushed her hair back.

Suzanne stirred as she felt Chico's hand on her cheek. Suzanne slowly opened her eyes, focusing on the hand that embraced her.

As Suzanne's eyes focused on Chico, she began to cry. "Chico..."

"Shhh, please, Suzanne you need your strength." Chico held her hand and kissed it.

"I remember you and Mando were wrestling on the ground then the gun went off."

"Listen, Suzanne, I believe Mando didn't really want to kill me. The cops have Mando in jail for attempted murder. Somewhere in my heart, it's telling me that Mando never really wanted to kill me. Just scare me," Chico said as he gripped the bed railing.

"Have you seen him?" Suzanne asked.

"No Suz, just in the continuos coverage of Mando's arrest on the news though. They've been airing that all day. I'm going to stop by the jail tomorrow. I want to be here with you today and spend the night with you". Chico took hold of Suzanne's hand and kissed it, gently rubbing his face against it.

Suzanne could feel Chico's warm skin and side burns rub against her hand. Suzanne, felt a bit of comfort from that. Chico worried about what was happening to Mando.

"Chico, I 'm worried what if they try to put him in ...prison?" Suzanne couldn't bear the thought of Mando being in prison.

"That's why I want to go to the cop shop and tell my side of the story."

"Chico, aren't you afraid they might check out your record, knowing your past history and all?" Suzanne shrugged.

"Yeah Suz, that's why I want come to them, before they decide to come to me," Chico said, leaning over to Suzanne.

" I guarantee Chico, Mando isn't going to happy to see you. I can't imagine how he is going to be? I remember how angry he was after he confessed he loved me the night he drove me home. He couldn't understand that I still loved you, Chico."

Suzanne grabbed the bed sheets and pulled them up over her neck.

"That Chico, was frightening enough." Suzanne was worried for Chico.

"Shhh, you're not supposed to get all worked up Suz. If the doctors find out you're this way, they won't let me in to see you anymore."

Chico pulled up a chair next to her and spent the night with Suzanne at the hospital.

______________________________________________________

Early the next day, Chico woke up and left for the garage to change clothes and headed over to the jail.

Chico arrived by the garage entrance. The entrance was blocked off still from the crime scene.

Chico stood there in disbelief.

"Why Suzanne? Why here? Ed's business is gonna go down the tubes because of this."

Chico dreaded the thought, as he closed his eyes, of almost losing her, and the possibility of Ed's business failing.

Chico hustled to get a quick shower and a change of clothes. Chico grabbed the paper that was by the door as he headed out. Mando's picture was on the front page. He tucked the paper in the door and headed for the jail where Mando was held.

As Chico headed towards the county jail, reporters were swarming the entrance.

"Are all these reporters here to cover Mando's arrest?" Chico thought as he made his way to the door.

"Hey! " said a reporter quickly heading towards Chico. "You work for that old man don't you?"

"What?" Chico questioned as he tried to open the door to go in.

The reporter stuck his foot to keep the door from opening farther.

"You're that kid who works for that Edward Brown fella, who owns that garage where the shooting took place. Right?" said the reporter.

"Please, I don't want to get involved," Chico said, trying to pry open the door.

"Sure you are. We seen a photo Mando had in his wallet of the three of you."

The reporter showed Chico the photo.

"How did you get this photo? "Chico asked as he glanced at the familiar picture the reporter shoved in Chico's face.

"We reporters have ways of getting information, Mr. Rodriguez," the reporter said.

"Yeah so, what do you want?" Chico continued to try to pry the door open.

"I just want to ask a couple of questions. How 'bout it?" said the reporter.

"Will you leave me alone then?" Chico pleaded, as he gave up trying to open the door.

"Yeah, sure," said the reporter.

" It was reported that Mando was having an affair with your fiancée. Suzanne wouldn't abide to Mando's desires. Is that true?" The reporter shoved the mini recorder in Chico's face as a cameraman filmed them

Chico, angry at what he heard from the reporter, pushed him away and slugged him. The reporter rose up from the fall from Chico's fist.

"I can't believe you, there is a woman in the hospital dying and you have the gal to ask about some affair that happened?" Chico was furious.

"Well Mr. Rodriguez, isn't that why the shooting occurred?" said the reporter as the cameraman followed him.

Chico became enraged and shoved the reporter out of his way as he made his way to the jail.

"What's the matter Chico, can't handle the truth?" The reporter snapped as he adjusted his suit.

Chico turned around and headed toward the reporter as the cameraman was behind him. Chico couldn't control his anger any more and began to slug the reporter. Chico held the reporter against him, chest to chest, looked angrily at him, and tossed him to the ground.

Chico, disgusted, walked eagerly to the jail to calm down before seeing Mando.

"Don't worry, I'll get him on his way out of the jail." The reporter headed to the van and waited.

Chico headed towards the lock up area. A guard cornered Chico. "Where are you going kid?" said the officer.

"I'm going to visit someone I know who is in jail." Chico headed towards the holding area.

Another cop spotted Chico and cornered him. "Where are you going?"

"I'm going to visit someone who is in the jail cell," said Chico. The cop showed Chico where to go. "Thanks", Chico said, "but I know where it is. I've had my share of sleepovers here." Chico continued to head off to where Mando was held.

Chico found the guard that supervised the area where Mando was.

"Excuse me, I'm here to visit Mando" Chico was escorted to a special room where Chico and Mando would meet.

Another officer headed towards Mando's cell. Mando sat on his cot staring at the wall. His hands clenched tightly to the mattress.

"MANDO!" Yelled a security guard as he made his way towards his cell. "You have a visitor!"

The security guard opened up Mando's cell and handcuffed him. Mando was shackled at his feet also.

Mando, who had only spoken to reporters since the shooting, asked, "Who wants to see me? I'm tired of talking to reporters. They never tell the truth!"

The guard escort Mando to the room where they were supposed to meet. Mando walking slowly, lowered his head and looked toward the ground as he made his way to the room.

Chico was waiting anxiously. Suddenly the lock in the door opened. A guard and Mando wandered in.

Chico couldn't believe what he saw. Mando hadn't shaved and looked helpless in handcuffs. Mando, still with his head down, got help to be seated in the chair assigned to him.

"I can't believe I'm seeing this." Chico, showing sympathy, was shocked to see Mando in handcuffs and shackles.

Mando, fearing who would want to see him, closed his eyes, raised his head and wiped the sweat from his brow. Mando then opened his eyes.

Mando was shocked to see Chico.

"What are you doing here!" Mando couldn't believe Chico was here to visit him.

"They think I shot her Chico!" Mando rose up off his chair and swung his handcuffed hands upward out of anger.

"I just don't believe I killed her! I had no intentions to kill her. Chico I admit I was pissed off at you for loving her..." Mando yelled.

Mando slammed his fists against the table where Chico sat. Chico quickly arose up from the table. "God, I can't believe this happening to me!"

"Mando I know in my heart you didn't do it. It was an accident. I'm sure of it..." Chico pleaded.

Chico looked straight at Mando and said, "For all I know Mando, I could of caused the gun to go off!"

"Well tell that to the authorities then!" Mando said.

"You know Chico, I express my feelings towards what happened and all they do is threaten to put me in a padded cell". Mando said, carefully pacing the floor.

"There is no justice for an innocent man Chico!" Mando was agitated.

"Mando, Suzanne is recovering from her gun shot wound," Chico said.

"What? I thought she died. Chico. I watched her, we both watched her die. Chico," Mando said tearfully as he rested his hands on the table. "It's a miracle Suzanne is alive".

"The paramedics revived her in the ambulance and the surgery following went well, Mando. Except..." Chico sat down on the chair.

"Except what Chico?" Mando asked.

"There's a good possibility she may never be able to conceive or carry child, Mando," Chico said as he rested his arms on the table, his hands over his eyes to keep from getting upset.

"You mean she lost the baby?" Mando said.

"What? What baby?" Chico moved his hands to view Mando.

"Chico, she was feeling ill the night before the shooting. She mentioned to me that she might be pregnant," Mando said.

"Mando, I swear I had to idea," Chico was stunned.

"When she told me she might be pregnant she was worried that you were going to freak thinking it was mine and not yours, Chico," Mando worried.

"Now we may never know who the father is if she loses the baby, Chico," Mando said.

"Believe me Chico, Suzanne wasn't trying to hide it from you. She wanted to wait to see about some sort of test to see who the father was," Mando said as he settled down.

"Oh God, she has no idea what is about to happen to her. She always wanted us to have a child together Mando," Chico said.

"I gotta get over to the hospital Mando. I have to find a way to tell her before she finds out any other way."

"I understand Chico, please let me know how Suzanne is doing. Take it easy brother," Mando, looking stunned over Suzanne's survival, was escorted back to his cell as Chico left the room.

 

Chico left Mando and headed out of the County Jail. Chico, spotting the reporters, had to find an alternative route back to the hospital.

"God, I hope I can make it in time to tell her." Chico headed towards the hospital.

Later, Chico arrived back at the hospital. Ed and a few doctors where discussing something.

"Ed, " Chico tapped on Ed's shoulder. "Excuse me. I just came back from seeing Mando, doctor. He says there's a good chance that Suzanne might be pregnant," Chico eagerly said.

"Yes, Chico, the doctors and I were discussing that as you came in. With Suzanne's condition we needed another authorization to take the test," Ed expressed to Chico.

"We need to run tests on her to see if she is ok. Although I must warn you after what she's been through, she may not carry through her full pregnancy if she is pregnant. That is if her tests are positive and she is healthy enough to carry full term. She will need to be bed rest till the baby is born."

"How soon can we find out if she is Doc?" Chico asked.

"We are waiting for the results as we speak Chico, it's just a matter of time now," the doctor said.

Chico, Louie and Ed, waited patiently for the test results.

"Chico, Chico Rodriguez?" said another doctor as he walked in the waiting room.

"Yes, Yes!" Chico got up and headed toward to doctor.

"I must speak with you regarding Suzanne's condition," the doctor said.

Ed and Louie were at the other side of the room.

"Ah Chico, Ed and I are going to take a walk to the cafeteria. We'll be back. We'll leave you two alone," Louie said.

"Louie, wait, Ed please stay here. You are just as much a part of this as anyone. Plus I could use your support right now," Chico asked.

Louie and Ed came over to Chico and comforted him as the doctor was going to inform Chico.

"Doc, I want you to meet my good friends Ed Brown and Louie Wilson." Chico introduced them to the other doctor.

"Well Chico, we have some good news regarding Suzanne. Her wound will heal nicely. Should be up and around out of the hospital in a week or so." The doctor flipped Suzanne's chart.

"However, I'm concerned about her abdomen with the bullet wound. There's a possibility of it affecting the baby".

"So she is pregnant!" Chico got out of his chair with mixed emotions.

"Sorry Doc I had no Idea that she was pregnant until I spoke with Mando," Chico was shocked with reality thought about what lied ahead.

"Mando was right," Chico said as he thought about what to do.

"Mando? The guy that has been on the news, Mando?" The doctor said.

"Yeah, Doc, although, Mando and I discussed about who the father was."

"Chico, I need your word that you will not have Suzanne get all worked up over your situation regarding the relationship with you three. I need everyone close to her to help her get through her pregnancy. She's in very frail condition to be worrying who is the father of her child, right now. I'll need all of you to help calm her down till the baby is ok. Keep her occupied so Suzanne won't constantly worry about who the baby's father is."

Suddenly a uniformed officer approached Chico, and Ed.

"Chico Rodriguez, Edward Brown?" Asked the officer.

"You have been summoned to appear in court. Here are you documents." The officer handed Chico and Ed their documents.

"What's this all about? Chico asked.

"Yeah," said Ed.

"Read the paper."

"I don't believe this?" Chico continued to read the document. "They want me to appear in court to testify against Mando!'

"Isn't this a bit soon sir?" Ed asked.

"This is a very high profile case, Mr. Brown," the officer said.

"The District Attorney has requested and authorized to have Mando's trial moved up. It's scheduled to start sometime in the beginning of next month. You will be informed when and where it will take place."

"Still that seems so close," Ed said.

"Yeah Ed, but maybe that will be good for Mando," Chico said as they compared documents to each other.

Chico brushed his hair back, "I'm going to check on Suzanne."

Chico walked into the ICU Ward. Chico walked by Suzanne's bed and pulled the curtain open, only to find Suzanne agitated, tossing and turning.

"Chico! Chico !" Suzanne whispered, as she continued to toss and turn.

Chico hurried over and hugged Suzanne.

Suzanne raised herself up and hugged Chico tightly.

Chico continued to hug and calm Suzanne down.

Suzanne, dazed, "Chico, you're ok!"

"Yes, I'm ok." Chico continued to hug Suzanne, gently rubbing her back.

"Chico, I had a bad dream that you got shot. Thank God you're alright!"

Suzanne's fears were eased as Chico continued to comfort her. "Suz, I'm alright."

Chico brushed her hair back and kissed her forehead. Chico carefully sat by Suzanne on her bed.

"Suz, I want you to calm down. Everything is going to be ok. Think of our future together, Suz." Chico gripped her hands and kissed them. Chico leaned towards her and kissed her.

Suzanne, holding Chico's hand, rubbed it gently. "Chico, there's something I have to tell you".

"Chico, there's a possibility I might be pregnant." Suzanne feared how Chico s reaction would be, knowing that Chico knew of Mando's successful attempt to have her.

"Suz, I 'm aware of that. I went to the county jail this morning