Disclaimer: I don’t own anything aside from the plot. Characters are created by the brilliant Shonda Rhimes. Grey’s Anatomy – JAPRIL A/U. Tell me what you think! Cheers!

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“She could've gotten angry and made me feel like a guilty child

but I realize that never was her style. I wanted her to hurt me and not treat me

like a friend, I wanted her to say that there'd be someday, I'll come crawling to my

knees to ask her back again but she acted like a lady till the end.”

oOo

April’s Discharge Day:

“Good Morning Dr. Kepner” The nurse greeted the doctor-patient politely.

April smiled brightly; “Good Morning Amber, are you here to take this awful IV lines off me?” she asked.

Amber smiled as she walked towards the bed; “As a matter of fact I am.”

“I would’ve taken it off myself to save you time but I’m quite sure I’ll never hear the end of it” April teased.

“You bet” Amber quipped.

April dangled her legs at the side of the bed to give the nurse easier access; she then grabbed her pillow and placed her hand on top of it. “Have at it” she said.

Amber placed her supplies at the bed side and began working on the lines; “I haven’t seen Dr. Grey yet but I’m quite sure she’ll be here soon to discharge you.”

April nodded; “I can’t wait to get out of here. I love this hospital don’t get me wrong but I prefer working here rather than staying here as a patient.”

Amber chuckled; “I hear you” she replied as she carefully pulls out the needle from the surgeon’s back hand. She then pressed a clean cotton ball on it and secured it with a surgical tape; “There you go.”

April began clenching and unclenching her hands; “That feels good, I wanted to do that since Tuesday.”

Amber gathered her supplies and smiled at her; “Well, I’ll leave you to it. Take care Dr. Kepner and I hope to see you wearing your lab coat rather than the ghastly patient gown” she said.

April laughed; “Thank you for taking good care of me Amber, I’ll see you soon!” she said cheerily.

Amber nodded before turning around and leaving her room.

oOo

Alex stepped inside the Attendings’ Lounge with a yawn; he sleepily walked towards the couch and plopped down almost instantly.

“Why are you so sleepy?” Cristina asked before biting her apple.

Alex yawned again and began rubbing his eyes; “Overslept.”

“Sleeping away your broken heart?” Cristina teased.

“Go to hell!” Alex hissed.

Cristina chuckled; she then moved towards the couch and sat beside her friend. “Have you seen Mer? I’ve been looking for her but I can’t seem to find her.”

Alex leaned his head back and closed his eyes; “Maybe she’s in Kepner’s room, she’s discharging her today.”

Cristina bit into her apple again and nodded; “Oh yeah, I forgot.”

Alex opened his eyes and turned his head sideways; “You owe me 50 bucks, pay up.”

“Why?”

Alex smirked; “Kepner’s being discharged today and Mcpretty hasn’t grown balls yet, so I win your 50 bucks.”

Cristina rolled her eyes; “The day is not over yet evil spawn, I still have until 12 midnight.”

Alex scoffed; he then stood up and stretched his arms upwards. “Whatever. I’m pretty sure I’ll win this because looks like Mer forgot about our bet, it must be the anaesthesia.”

“What’d you mean?”

Alex turned his head towards the other surgeon and braised his hands on his hips; “I walked in on them talking about a guy that Kepner wants to jump as soon as she get discharged from this hospital and Mer is encouraging her, hell, I think she’s even giving her pointers!”

Cristina narrowed her eyes; “Are you sure about what you heard? It’s Kepner we’re talking about right? You’re not psyching me out or anything?”

Alex made a face; “I’m 100% sure, it disturbed me too, you know. Apparently, Kepner left this dude named Jack hanging on her couch when she had to rush here.”

“Get outta here!”

“I’m not kidding. Go ask Mer once you see her and I’m pretty sure she’ll tell you the details” Alex said.

Cristina shot up from her perch and smiled widely; “I’ll do just that” she said.

oOo

April was just slipping on her flats when her door opened; she lifted her eyes from the floor and smiled. “Hey Cristina!”

Cristina stepped inside the room, leaving the door ajar; “Hey Apes, ready to go home?” she asked.

“Yep” April chirped.

Cristina stuffed her hands inside her lab coat pockets; “Did Mer sign you discharge papers?”

April shook her head as she sat on her bed; “Nope, I haven’t seen her yet.”

“I think she’s running late today, I haven’t seen her yet.”

“Maybe”

“Are you excited to go? Anyone in particular waiting for you at home?”

April raised her brow; “I am excited but you are aware that my family is in Moline and I’m alone in my apartment, right?”

Cristina smiled like a Cheshire Cat; “Uhuh...”

April studied the Cardio Surgeon’s face and almost instantly it hit her; “No. No. No!” she said in horror.

Cristina nodded; “Yes. Yes. Yes.”

April’s face instantly flushes into beet red as she let herself fall back first on her bed; “I’m going to murder Meredith Grey!” she groaned.

Cristina walked towards the bed and plopped down; “Come on Apes, spill. Who’s this guy named Jack?” she asked curiously.

April closed her eyes and covered her face with her hands; “Argh!!!!!!”

Cristina laughed.

April took a deep calming breath and pulled her hand away; she then turned her head sideways and glared at her friend. “It’s Alex right? He told you? Who else did he tell?” she asked.

Cristina instantly stopped laughing as her eyes widen in shock; “So it’s true! You’re planning on screwing this Jack fellow as soon as you leave this place! Alex was telling the truth!” she said.

April narrowed her eyes before sitting up; “I. AM. NOT. SCREWING. JACK. AS. SOON. AS. I’M. DISCHARGED” she replied, enunciating every word.

“Well, technically you can’t because you have to wait at least two weeks to have your incision healed before you start having sex again.” Cristina said astutely.

“I’M NOT HAVING SEX WITH JACK BECAUSE JACK IS NOT EVEN A PERSON! JACK IS JACK DANIEL’s FOR GOODNESS SAKE! IT’S A FREAKING WHISKEY!” April shrilled before closing her eyes and taking a deep calming breath.

Cristina narrowed her eyes at the other surgeon suspiciously; “But Alex told me that Jack is hanging out on your couch, waiting for you?”

“It is! I left it there because I had to go here. I planned on binging on alcohol while watching those flicks I rented” April clarified.

“Oh.”

April opened her eyes and turned towards Cristina; “Who else did Alex tell? Should I expect the whole hospital knowing?” she asked exasperatedly.

Cristina cleared her throat and sat straighter; “Err—I don’t think so because he just arrived and looks like I’m the first person he saw.”

April stood up from the bed and fixed her shirt; “Where is he? I need to straighten it out before it turns into a nasty rumour.”

Cristina hopped off of the bed; “Nope, you stay here and wait for Mer, you don’t want to miss her. I’ll go find the evil spawn” she said.

April braised her hands on her hips; “Are you sure?” she asked.

Cristina nodded; “I know where to find him, just stay here” she said before trotting out of the room.

oOo

Alex was tying his scrub pants when the door to the Lounge opened; he quickly snatched his lab coat from his locker and snapped it close.

Jackson rounded the corner and began walking distractedly towards the Ped’s Attending direction.

Alex slipped his coat on and slung his stethoscope around his neck; “Hey man” he drawled.

“Oh hey, you’re early.”

Alex crossed his arms on top of his chest; “How’s your night?” he asked.

Jackson stood right in front of his own locker and pulled it open; he deposited his bag inside and began tugging off his jacket. “It was alright, it was a long reconstruction”

“Did you—“

“Alex you blabbering idiot where are you? I don’t owe you 50 bucks yet because Kepner is not having sex with Jack!”

Jackson froze.

Alex’s eyes widen as he quickly turned towards the voice.

Cristina rounded the corner with a huge smile on her face; she didn’t seem to notice Jackson standing behind his locker’s door so she continued with her speech. “I haven’t lost yet so you won’t get a single dime from me!”

Alex opened his mouth to tell Cristina that the Plastics Attending is with them but he was not able to do so when the other surgeon spoke.

“Who is Jack?”

Cristina’s eyes widen in shock; she took another step and saw Jackson staring at her blankly. She tried to open her mouth to explain but no words came out of her mouth.

Jackson turned his eyes towards the other surgeon in the room; “What is she talking about?” he asked.

Alex studied Jackson’s face and swallowed hard; he was about to respond but Jackson already turned on his heels and stormed out of the room.

Cristina cringed and turned her gaze towards Alex; “Do you think he’s going where I think he’s going?” she asked.

Alex groaned as he rubbed his face with his palms; “We just set off the bomb and it’s about to explode.”

oOo

April was reading her book peacefully when her door was slammed opened; she tore her eyes away from it and was surprised to see her best friend standing inside her room. “Jackson?”

Jackson slammed the door shut and stared at her directly; “Who the hell is Jack? Are you screwing him?” he asked darkly.

April’s eyes widen in shock; she hastily snapped her book close and placed it on her bed side. “What are you talking about?”

Jackson glared at her and began pacing angrily; “What the hell are you thinking? Didn’t you understand what I said to you? I specifically told you that we still need to talk about us and you’re already planning on ditching me for another man! You haven’t even heard my side yet!” he hissed.

April opened her mouth to respond but the seething surgeon cut her off.

“And Mass Gen? You’re planning on jumping to their boat without even telling me? I had to hear it from Yang for fuck’s sake! Yang!”

April felt her anger explode and before she knows it she’s standing right in front of Jackson; “SHUT UP! SHUT THE FUCK UP!” she yelled.

Jackson halted in his pace and met April’s livid eyes.

Tears pool in April’s eyes as she clenches her fists tightly; “How dare you? How dare you barge into my room screaming at me when you’re the one who refuses to talk in the first place! How could you accuse me of sleeping around when you’re the one who slept with an intern not even a week after you dumped me?” she spat as tears trek down her cheeks.

Jackson opened his mouth to speak but April cut him off.

“I TOLD YOU I WANTED YOU BUT YOU SAID NOTHING! I STOOD THERE LIKE AN IDIOT AND WAITED FOR YOU TO SAY SOMETHING BUT YOU JUST STARED AT ME LIKE YOU DIDN’T EVEN KNOW WHAT I WAS TALKING ABOUT!” April yelled. “YOU’RE THROWING A FIT BECAUSE I DIDN’T TELL YOU ABOUT MASS GEN, THAT YOU HAD TO HEAR IT FROM CRISTINA? YOU’RE NOT EVEN GONNA ASK ME WHY I’M EVEN CONSIDERING IT? YOU’RE NOT EVEN A TAD CURIOUS WHY I’M LEAVING THIS HOSPITAL THAT TREATS ME LIKE FAMILY? WELL LET ME TELL YOU SINCE WE’RE ALREADY ON IT, I’M LEAVING THIS DAMN PLACE BECAUSE OF YOU. I’M LEAVING BECAUSE I DON’T THINK I CAN STAND WORKING WITH YOU, BECAUSE I DONT HAVE A FUCKING SWITCH THAT I CAN EASILY FLICK THAT WILL MAKE ME REVERT TO BEING YOUR ASEXUAL BEST FRIEND AND WATCH YOU RIDE OFF TO THE SUNSET WITH FREAKING EDWARDS!”

Jackson eyes widen in shock, clearly stunned with his best friend’s honesty and cussing.

April wiped her cheeks wearily before taking a deep calming breath; “You told me you want your old best friend back so I’m giving you what you want. I’m choosing to leave because I need to be away from you so I can condition myself to be what you need me to be” she admitted. “I know you’re thinking that I’m abandoning our friendship but I’m not...You’ll always be my best friend Jackson and I’ll always be your person but in order for me to move pass this hurt and go through with our friendship, I need time.”

Jackson licked his lips and cleared his throat; “Stephanie and I are---“

“You don’t have to explain your relationship with Edwards to me Jackson, it’s crystal clear” April said. She then forced out a little smile and sniffed; “You mentioned something about Jack awhile ago and I wanted to clear that up. I’m not sleeping around and definitely not with Jack because he’s not a person, its Jack Daniel’s, the whiskey. Meredith and I were talking about alcohol when Alex overheard us and Mer thought it was funny to screw with Alex’s head.”

Jackson instantly felt relief upon hearing April’s words but he mentally cursed himself for his stupidity.

April took a step back and sat down on her bed; “Now that everything’s cleared up I think you should leave. I’m tired and I want to rest before Mer arrives.”

Jackson stuffed his hands inside his pocket nervously and tried his best to meet April’s eyes; “I’m--I’m sorry I screamed at you and accused you of those things. I was just so pissed and hurt that I didn’t even think before I opened my mouth.”

April smiled wryly; “I already expected the explosion.”

Jackson averted his gaze and stared at his shoes, clearly embarrassed about his initial outburst; “I—there are things that you said that I need to clarify. I—I still haven’t told you why I was not able to answer that night and I want a chance to explain myself and fix this...” he pleaded as he revert his gaze back to April.

April bit her bottom lip as she studies her best friend’s anxious face.

“Please tell me you’ll give me another chance to talk...”

April sighed; “Fine. We’ll talk about this again but only after my boards” she said.

Jackson sighed in relief; “I’m fine with it, whatever you want I’m fine with it” he replied.

April nodded; “Since that’s settled, can you please leave now? I want to rest” she said.

“O-of course, I have work too...”

“Okay. Bye” April said before leaning back on her pillows and closing her eyes.

Jackson retraced his steps and pulled the door open; he threw April one last look before stepping out, closing the door behind him.

April opened her eyes after hearing her door closing; she then let out a bone weary sigh and closed her eyes again.

oOo

Meredith pushed the door open to their Lounge and quickly stepped inside; she trotted towards the lockers but halted her steps when she saw her two old friends sitting on the bench quietly. “What are you two doing here? Don’t you have rounds?”

Alex’s head snapped towards the general surgeon’s direction and scowled; “You should’ve corrected me last night when I thought that Jack was a real dude.”

Meredith furrowed her brows; “I was about to but then you disappeared on me even before I had the chance to.”

Alex stood up from his perch and shook his head; “It’s not cool Mer.”

Meredith turned her gaze towards Cristina; “What did you guys do?” she asked.

“Err---“

Meredith dropped her bag on the floor and narrowed her eyes; “Cristina!”

Cristina cringed; “Look---we didn’t mean it. Alex and I were talking earlier and he mentioned something about a Jack fellow that April can’t wait to see so I went to her room to tease her.”

“And?” Meredith asked.

“And then Yang found out that Jack is actually a drink and told me” Alex replied.

Meredith moved her eyes towards Alex; “Did you tell anyone else aside from Cristina?”

Alex threw Meredith an indignant look; “Of course not! I don’t spread rumours!”

Meredith let out a sigh of relief; “Good. I was worried, April will definitely murder me if it gets around the hospital” she replied. She grabbed her bag from the floor and began walking towards her own locker.

Alex crossed his arms on top of his chest and glared at Cristina; urging the Cardio surgeon to tell their friend the whole story.

Cristina shook her head.

Alex narrowed his eyes at the Cardio surgeon and turned towards Meredith; “I didn’t tell anyone but Yang here might’ve” he said.

Meredith paused; she then turned her face towards Cristina with a surprised look on her face.

Cristina threw Alex a dark look before meeting Meredith’s eyes; “I didn’t mean to tell anyone. I thought it’s just me and evil spawn because it’s still early and I haven’t seen anyone yet. So when I came here I pretty much announced to the whole room that April is not having sex with Jack” she explained.

“Oh god! Who heard you?” Meredith asked.

Cristina cringed; “Err---Avery...”

Meredith swore colourfully.

Alex winced; “We didn’t mean to tell him, Yang clearly didn’t see him standing behind his locker so she’s not at fault too. I tried to explain but he left even before I got the chance to open my mouth” he explained.

Cristina nodded in agreement; “He left even before we got the chance to clarify things and we think he went to Kepner’s room...”

Meredith eyed her friends before letting out a defeated sigh; she then moved towards the bench and sat herself down. “April’s gonna kill me.”

Alex sighed and shifted towards the bench; he sat down beside Meredith and turned his head sideways. “The talk that those two should have is long overdue, we pretty much sped it up a bit. Look at the brighter side, at least we’re able to haul Avery’s ass to Kepner’s room”

Meredith turned her head to meet the Ped’s Attending eyes; “Do you think there would be shouting?” she asked.

Cristina snorted; “Avery is whiny and the way he looked at Alex and I, I’m sure as hell there would be shouting.”

Alex snickered.

Meredith groaned.

oOo

Stephanie was just coming out of the intern’s locker room when she spotted her beau walking along the hallway; she wanted to turn around and just pretend that she didn’t see him but she can’t. She knows that the end is near and she already had ample time to condition herself in the last couple of days so she might as well confront him now and get it over with, she’d rather break up with him rather than the other way around anyway. So, having that in mind she squared her shoulders and raised her chin as she saunters towards his direction.

Jackson’s eyes were glued to the floor as he walks aimlessly along the hallway; he was still reeling from April’s words so he didn’t seem to recognize the person who’s walking towards him. When he was about to hit her, he side stepped and continued on his way; not noticing that it was Stephanie.

Stephanie gritted her teeth when Jackson passed her by like she was invisible; she quickly turned around and pulled his arm forcefully. “Jackson!”

Jackson was yanked out of his stupor when he felt his arm being pulled; he furrowed his brows and turned his head to see who the culprit is.

“We need to talk” Stephanie said stiffly.

Jackson’s face relaxed when he recognized who’s standing before him; “Hey, I didn’t see you there,” he said.

Stephanie pulled her hand away and cleared her throat; “We need to talk. Do you have time?” she asked.

Jackson slipped his hands inside his pockets and nodded; “Yeah I have a couple of minutes before my shift starts. So what’s up?” he asked.

Stephanie took a deep breath before biting the bullet; “Do you love me?” she asked bluntly.

Jackson’s eyes widen in shock; clearly he didn’t see this one coming. “First April and now this! Is it pick-a-fight-with-Jackson day today?” he thought to himself. After a moment, he opened his mouth to speak but no words seem to escape his lips.

Stephanie fought her impulse to hit him and just raised her chin defiantly; “It’s not rocket science Jackson, it’s either yes or no. So, do you love me?” she asked.

Jackson averted his gaze and lowered his eyes to the floor; he took a deep breath before meeting the intern’s eyes again. “I’m sorry...I—I tried but---“ he was not able to finish his sentence because Stephanie’s palm connected with his cheek.

Stephanie took a step back and glared at Jackson; “You deserved that.”

Jackson lifted his hand on his stinging cheek and met Stephanie’s eyes; “I know.”

Stephanie let out a deep breath before speaking again; “I guess it’s over then” she said.

Jackson threw her a rueful look before sighing; “I’m sorry, I’m a bastard and I don’t deserve you. I don’t know how to say this without incriminating me more but I tried Steph...I really tried” he said. He then paused and licked his lips; “You’re a wonderful person, you’re sweet, you’re kind, you’re smart and extremely gorgeous---“

“But you’re in love with someone else” Stephanie finished the sentence for him. She then puffed out a breath and crossed her arms on top of her chest; “Does she know?” she asked.

Jackson stiffened like a deer caught in headlights.

Stephanie rolled her eyes; “Does Dr. Kepner know that you’re in love with her? Did you tell her?” she asked.

“How did you---who told you?” Jackson stuttered.

Stephanie pursed her lips; “It doesn’t matter who told me or how I knew. I just want to know if you already grew balls and told the woman you’re pining for that you’re actually in love with her.”

Jackson cringed; “Err—I don’t think it’s appropriate to talk to you about this---“

Stephanie narrowed her eyes at him before she began hitting him with her lab coat; “Stringing me along is inappropriate! Not telling me that you’re still in love with someone while sleeping with me is inappropriate! Now I’m asking you to be honest with me for the first time and you’re telling me that it’s inappropriate?”

Jackson shielded his face with his arms; “Stop hitting me Steph, geez!” he yelped.

Stephanie pulled her lab coat away; “Did you tell her?”

“I’m only telling you this because you’re acting full crazy on me” Jackson paused. He then cleared his throat and stood straighter; “No I haven’t told her and I’m still thinking if I should.”

Stephanie threw him a disappointed look; “I never pegged you to be coward but that’s exactly what you are now.”

“I’m not a coward!”

Stephanie flung her lab coat on her shoulder; “What you just told me is pure cowardice and Dr. Kepner deserves better than that, we both deserve better” she said before walking away.

Jackson stood rooted on the ground.

oOo

Meredith was standing outside April’s door for 15 minutes now; she wanted to bail and just let someone else discharge the red headed surgeon but nobody seems to want to do the honours. She leaned back on the nurses’ station and bowed her head; she closed her eyes and began counting 1 to 10, trying to calm her nerves.

“What are you doing?”

Meredith’s eyes snapped open upon hearing the familiar voice; slowly, she raised her head and saw April’s head peeking from her door. “H—hi Apes, good morning, I was just about to enter your room.”

April rolled her eyes and pulled the door wider; “No you’re not. I’ve been watching you for 15 minutes now and I have feeling that if I didn’t open my door, you would’ve bailed on me” she said.

Meredith threw her friend a sheepish look before walking towards the room.

April shook her head before she moving towards her bed; she hopped up and sat sideways, facing the general surgeon.

“Err---I have your discharge papers here and I already signed them. All we need is your signature then you’re good to go” Meredith said.

April crossed her arms on top of her chest and raised her brow; “Anything else?”

Meredith shifted towards the over-bed table and placed the folder on top it; she then stuffed her hands inside her lab coat pocket’s and began rocking on her heels nervously. “I—I’m sorry Apes--I didn’t think that the joke I played on Alex will get out of hand...”

“Uhuuhhh...”

Meredith fidgeted with her pockets, trying her best not to squirm under April’s inquisitive gaze; “We—we didn’t mean any harm. Alex and Cristina didn’t intend to let Jackson know, he overheard them talking and Jackson left even before they were to correct what he heard...” she explained.

April was enjoying making Meredith Grey squirm but she feels that the general surgeon had enough torture for one day so she relented; “Are you really sorry?” she asked.

Meredith nodded her head automatically; “I really am” she said with sincerity.

“Apology accepted” 

“Are you sure? Because I can totally understand if you won’t, I mean, we did screw up—“

“Meredith, please shut up” April said.

Meredith snapped her mouth shut.

April eyed her friend before smiling; “It’s okay, I’m not mad at you or Alex nor Cristina. It’s fine.”

Meredith threw her a confused look.

April braised her palms on her side and began dangling her feet; “I admit, it pissed me off at first because I was caught off guard but then I realized that without you guys meddling Jackson wouldn’t have talked to me” she said.

A look of understanding dawned on Meredith’s face; “So how did it go? Did he shout like how you expected? Was he livid?” she asked.

April scoffed; “He’s beyond livid and he shouted alright.”

Meredith winced; “I’m sorry...”

April waived her hand dismissively; “It’s okay, I kinda expected that from him anyway. At least I get to shout at him too and it felt good, really good” she said.

Meredith walked towards the bed and sat beside April; she then braised her hands on her knees and turned her face sideways. “You shouted? Really?”

April chuckled; “I was surprised at myself too, I didn’t know I had it in me. I guess I just exploded and told him everything I wouldn’t have told him normally, it was liberating” she said.

Meredith smiled.

“We’re not done talking yet, he told me that there are things that he still needs to clarify and he still wants to explain why he was not able to answer me that night.”

“Well, you deserve to know...” Meredith replied.

April pursed her lips; “I don’t understand why he’s insisting to explain himself, I mean, I’m pretty much giving him a free pass and any average guy would just grab it run for the hills.”

Meredith chuckled; “Jackson is not your average guy, he’s too pretty to be average” she joked.

April laughed; “He’s too pretty for his own good” she replied.

“But seriously Apes, hear him out. Who knows, maybe he’ll surprise you”

April smiled; “I already told him that I’ll talk to him after my boards so he’ll definitely get his chance but I doubt he’ll sing a different tune Mer so don’t keep your hopes up” she joked.

Meredith smile mischievously before hopping off the bed; “We’ll see. Now you better sign this discharge papers so you can go your merry way.”

April grinned widely; “Let me at it!” she said enthusiastically.

oOo

Owen was gowning up when his wife came walking towards him; “Hey” he greeted.

Cristina stood beside him and grabbed herself a gown; “I was paged 911, what do we have?” she asked.

Owen laced his gown and turned towards Cristina; “Incoming Trauma, multiple GSW on the patient’s chest.”

Cristina smirked and turned her back towards Owen; “Lace me up, nothing beats a good surgery to start my day” she said.

Owen chuckles as he laces his wife’s gown; “I knew you’d say that” he said.

Cristina winked; “Come on husband, let’s start our day right” she said before walking towards the E.R. doors.

Owen smiled as he shook his head.

oOo

Alex was standing along the coffee cart when he saw Meredith and April exiting the elevator; he quickly paid for his coffee and sauntered towards them.

“Are you sure you’re gonna be okay?” Meredith asked.

April rolled her eyes as she drags her bright pink suitcase behind her; “I will be fine Mer, don’t worry about me.”

“Why is she not sitting on a wheel chair like any other normal patient?” Alex asked.

April paused and turned towards the other surgeon, smiling; “Because I’m not a normal patient Alex, I’m a doctor here. And besides, I can walk perfectly fine” she chirped.

Alex shook his head at the Trauma surgeon’s stubbornness; “You ready to go home then?”

“Yep”

Meredith stopped beside April and stuffed her hands inside her lab coat pockets; “You already know the rules so I won’t bore you with it but if you need anything and I mean anything at all, don’t hesitate to call, okay?” she said.

April turned to Meredith and smiled; “I will.”

“Why are you on your feet?”

The trio turned around and saw Derek walking towards them; the Neurosurgeon stopped beside his wife and smiled at his former student.

“I insisted to walk so I can stretch my legs a bit, I’ve been chained to the bed far too long” April explained.

Derek smiled; “Stubborn as always, well, take it easy and we’ll see you soon.”

April smiled at Derek; “I will.”

“How will you get home? Did you already call for a cab?” Alex asked.

April wheeled her suitcase right in front of her and cleared her throat; “Err—yeah, of course. I’m just going to wait for it, yeah---so you guys can go back to work now and I’ll see you next week” she stuttered.

Alex narrowed his eyes at April before turning towards the couple; “She’s lying” he said bluntly.

April threw Alex an indignant look; “I—I’m not lying!” she shrilled.

Alex crossed his arms on top of his chest and raised his brow; “You get shrilly and stutter-y when you lie Kepner.”

April felt her cheeks flush as she tries to think for a rebuttal.

Meredith threw a suspicious look at her patient; “I’ll wait until your cab arrives.”

“B—but you have surgeries to attend to, patients to save. I don’t want you to waste time waiting with me, I---“

Derek chuckles as he turned towards the Ped’s Attending; “She is a terrible liar.”

April’s eyes widen; “Dr. Shepherd! I---I’m not lying!” she shrilled.

Alex smirked to Derek; “See? Shrilly and stutter-y” he pointed out.

Derek was about to respond but his pager went off; he quickly pulled it out of his pocket and read the message. “Torres paged me for a consult” he said. He turned towards April and smiled; “Take a cab like a good patient” he said. He then turned towards his wife and planted a soft peck on her lips; “Stay with her until the cab arrives and call me as soon as your done so we can take Bailey for his shots” he said.

“But you have a consult, we can wait” Meredith said.

Derek planted another kiss on Meredith’s lips; “It’s not a patient consult, so can call me” he repeated before turning on his heel.

April let out a defeated sigh; “I basically live 15 minutes away from the hospital so I don’t see why I can’t drive, it’s not like I’ll be lifting my car or something” she said petulantly.

Meredith braised her hands on her hips; “It’s in the rules Apes, no driving for at least 2 weeks.”

Alex snorted; “You’re the only one among us whose stickler for rules and you just happen to choose not to obey them now, really?”

April groaned; “But my car has been stuck here for like a week and I---“

Alex shushed her and shoved his hand towards April, palm face up.

April stared at Alex’ hand confusedly; “Uhh—what are you doing?”

“I’m asking you to dance to the damn prom that’s what I’m doing, geez! Just give me your stupid keys and I’ll take your car to your apartment!” Alex barked.

“I---“

“Awwww....” Meredith teased.

“Shut up Mer!” Alex hissed. He then wiggled is hand impatiently and glared at April; “Well? I don’t have all day so give it to me!”

April fumbled with her pockets and hastily fished out her keys; she handed it to Alex and smiled shyly. “Err---thank you for doing this—you really don’t have too but---“

Alex rolled his eyes as he snatches the keys from April’s hand; “Whatever! Don’t mention it” he said before turning around and walking away.

April bemusedly watched the other surgeon leave.

Meredith chuckles as she pulls her phone from her pocket; “Now that’s settled, let me call a cab for you because I know you didn’t” she said cheerily.

April made a face.

oOo

“You can start your reconstruction right after Shepherd and I take the tumour out” Callie said.

Jackson nodded; “Sound’s great” he said.

“You paged?” Derek asked as he stepped into the room.

Callie turned towards the door and smiled; “Yeah, we just need a quick run over on our treatment plan for Mason Anderson. Avery and I already discussed his part so it’s just you and me” she said.

“Okay” Derek replied. He then walked towards the large touch screen panel and began navigating it with his fingers.

“Like what we’ve discussed, we’ll do the frontal approach to dissect the tumour. I will cut the frontal portion of the skull and—“

Derek’s phone began ringing loudly cutting off the Orthopaedic Surgeon mid speech; “I’m so sorry, excuse me” he said apologetically.

Callie paused; “Go ahead.”

“Hey, that was fast—Uhuh—He did? I’m pretty sure she wasn’t happy about it—really? Well it’s for her own good—Uhuh---I’ll come find you once I’m done here—okay---bye” Derek pocketed his phone. He then turned towards Callie and smiled; “Sorry about that, it was Mer. We’re supposed to take Bailey to Ped’s to get his shots but she got held off by Kepner’s stubbornness” he explained.

Jackson tore his eyes away from his tab and began listening intently to Derek.

Callie chuckled; “What did Kepner do this time?” she asked.

Derek stuffed his hands inside his lab coat pocket; “Well, she opted to walk instead of being wheeled like any other normal patient and oh, she wants drive herself home and---”

“Did Mer let her? She can’t drive for at least 2 weeks” Jackson interrupted, his brows furrowing.

Derek turned towards Jackson and raised his brow; “Of course not, that was the hold off. Apparently she had a nefarious plan of making my wife think that she’s riding a taxi. Good thing Karev was able to read her reactions so he was able to call her bluff, by the way, April is not a very good liar” he finished with a cringe.

Jackson looked pensive; “She’s shrilly and stutter-y, she sucks at lying” he said.

Callie shook her head in amusement; “Classic Kepner, just as stubborn as the day she got admitted” she said.

Derek laughed; “Exactly. But don’t you worry, Karev confiscated her car keys and Mer shoved her into a cab so she’ll be alright.”

Jackson let out a sigh of relief; “That’s good to hear” he replied.

Derek gazed amusedly at the Plastics Attending’s relieved face before turning towards Callie; “Okay Torres, back to what you were saying.”

Jackson moved his eyes back to his tab, ignoring the medical chatter between the other two surgeons.

oOo

After one week:

“As you all know, Dr. Kepner will be back to work today so she’ll be managing the pit again. However, she will only do consults, minor non surgical procedures and administrative work since she’s still recovering from her recent surgery. She will not be allowed inside an O.R. just yet so we would still need some extra set of hands just in case a Trauma comes along. I already assigned Edwards and Ross under her service so I only need one first year Attending that can work alongside with them, so, who wants to volunteer?” Owen asked while eyeing Meredith.

“As much as I want to, I can’t. I’m doing a complete spleenectomy and bowel resection to one of my patients. I already pushed it once so I can no longer cancel it” Meredith explained.

Owen turned his gaze towards his wife; “Dr. Yang?”

Cristina shook her head; “I have a Micro-valve replacement and two angiograms today, I’m swamped” she replied.

Owen turned towards Alex; “Karev?”

“No can do Chief, I can’t babysit today. The second batches of my African kids are arriving in a couple of hours so I need to prep” Alex replied.

Owen sighed and turned towards his last available first year Attending; “Avery?”

Jackson let out a defeated sigh before tearing his eyes away from his tab; “Do I have a choice?”

Owen eyed the other surgeon; “Of course you do” he replied. He then turned his eyes towards the other first year Attendings; “I know you’re all very busy today but I can’t just let Kepner alone in the pit without at least one of you with her because I’m pretty sure she’ll go full crazy and dive right in without thinking of herself. It’s her first day back and she needs all the help she can get so if you have time to spare, try to lend a hand” he said before smiling weakly.  

 Alex leaned back on his chair and sighed; “Fine—I’ll babysit her until—“

“I’ll do it” Jackson said, cutting his friend off mid-sentence.

Owen turned his gaze towards Jackson; “Are you sure?” he asked.

Jackson stood up from his chair and grabbed his tab from the table; “I can cancel all my elective procedures for the day and push them tomorrow. Is she already at the pit?” he asked.

“Yes she is” Owen replied.

Jackson pushed away from the table; “Can I go now? I need to inform my patients” he asked.

Owen nodded.

Jackson hastily turned on his back and began walking away; once he reached the door, he pulled it open and stepped out of the room.

Cristina leaned towards Meredith; “Want another wager?” she whispered.

Meredith smiled; “Let’s talk about it outside.”

“Aren’t you two tired of losing money?” Alex asked.

“Shut up!” Meredith and Cristina said in unison.

Alex rolled his eyes.

oOo

“So...you’re under Kepner’s service today? Are you cool with that?” Jo stared at her friend worriedly.

Stephanie slung her stethoscope around her neck and plucked her lab coat from her locker; “Yeah, why?” she asked.

Jo leaned back on her locker and crossed her arms on top her chest; “I mean, she’s the reason why you and Dr. Pretty eyes broke up...” she said.

Stephanie shrugged her lab coat on and stared at the other intern; “It’s not her fault Jo, she didn’t do anything.”

“But—“

“But nothing, okay?” Stephanie said sternly. She then took a deep breath and stuffed her hand inside her pockets; “She did not seduce him or stole him away from me. He was not mine to begin with and I already accepted that. Dr. Kepner did not do anything mean to me, she’s nice and she actually takes time to teach not like the other Attendings’, so I don’t have a problem working with her” she said.

Jo puffed out a breath and squared her shoulders; “Okay...” she replied.

Stephanie smiled at her friend; “Don’t worry about me, I’ll be fine. I’ll see you at lunch, okay?” she said.

Jo nodded; “See you” she replied.

oOo

“Today’s your lucky day Dr. Ross because you’ll definitely get your hands dirty” April said brightly.

Shane walked towards his mentor and smiled; “I’m looking forward to it. It’s nice to have you back as a doctor, Dr. Kepner” he said.

April giggled; “It’s nice to have you back as my intern rather than my doctor, Dr. Ross”

Shane chuckles as he rubs his palm together; “You mentioned something about getting my hands dirty, lump’s and bump’s day?” he asked.

“Nope”

Shane paused and threw his mentor a confused look; “Then what are we doing today?” he asked.

April smiled widely; “Today you’ll get your chance to assist first hand in an incoming Trauma, that means, you’ll be able to access the Trauma Rooms and possibly scrub in an actual surgery”

Shane’s eyes widen in surprise; “R—really?”

April nodded; “Are you excited?” she asked.

“Hell yeah!” Shane replied ecstatically.

April chuckled; she then moved towards the nurses’ station and plucked her tab. She tapped her finger on the screen and read the schedule that was posted; “Do you know where Dr. Edwards is? She’s also under my service today.”

“Present!”

April tore her eyes from the tab and turned to her right; she then placed her tab on top of the desk and smiled brightly. “Dr. Edwards, it’s nice of you to join us”

Stephanie stood beside Shane and smiled at their perky Attending; “It’s nice to have you back Dr. Kepner”

April nodded and stuffed her hands inside her pockets; “I’m glad to be back as well. Like what I already told Dr. Ross awhile ago, you’ll definitely get your hands dirty today because you’ll get your chance to assist first hand in an incoming Trauma, that means, you’ll be able to access the Trauma Rooms and possibly scrub in an actual surgery” she said.

Stephanie’s eyes widen; “R—really?”

“Really.”

“That’s awesome!” Stephanie exclaimed.

April smiled enviously at her interns excitement; “I know. I’d cut my arm if I can just perform one surgery today. It’s been so long since I last operated and I think I’m having a surgical withdrawal” she groaned.

“If you cut your arm then we would have to re-attach it and then you’ll have to go through a hell lot of P.T which will keep you away from surgeries much longer, so I vote keeping your arm today.”

April squeaked and quickly spun on her heels; she felt her heart beat wildly when she saw Jackson standing right in front of her. “Don’t sneak on peoples back! It’s rude!” she snapped.

Jackson chuckled; “I’m glad your back” he said.

April let out a small smile; “Thanks, I’m glad to be back as a doctor”.

Jackson shook his head as he shrugs on his lab coat.

April watched Jackson put his lab coat on and narrowed her eyes at the Plastics Attending with suspicion; “What are you doing here? Don’t you have surgeries today?”

Jackson stuffed his hands inside his pocket and smiled sheepishly; “It was all cancelled, I’m your other Attending for today, didn’t Hunt tell you?”

“Oh.” April gasped in surprise.

Jackson eyed her with caution; "Is it alright?”

April cleared her throat before nodding; “Of course it’s alright” she replied. She then gestures towards her two quiet interns; “Well you’re lucky because we have Dr. Edwards and Dr. Ross under our service today” she said with a small smile.

Jackson mentally swore; he didn’t notice the two intern’s standing close to them because he was so focused on what April was saying, well, he was focused on April, period. “Hey guys” he greeted.

“G--good morning Dr. Avery” Shane stuttered.

Jackson nodded towards Shane before moving his eyes to his ex; “Good Morning” he awkwardly greeted.

Stephanie met his eyes; “Good morning Dr. Avery” she said politely.

April watched the interaction between her best friend and his lover and she instantly felt confused; she turned her gaze towards Stephanie and forced out the most appeasing smile she can muster. “Err--you guys don’t have to act so---professional around me because I know what you guys are” she said. She then leaned forward and tried her best to whisper; “its weirder hearing you two address each other so formally.”

Stephanie opened her mouth to respond but was cut off by the nurse sitting at her station. “Dr. Kepner, incoming Trauma in 5 minutes. MVC patients and two ambulances are on its way”

April’s eyes widen; “Okay” she replied to the nurse. She then turned towards her interns and smiled eagerly; “It’s now your time to shine, Edwards and Ross, gown up and wait for the ambulance at the entrance” she ordered.

“I’m on it!” Shane replied before hastily walking away.

Stephanie grinned widely as she follows Ross.

Jackson also turned on his heel to gown up when he felt a tug on his arm; he paused and slowly turned his head. “Yes?”

April pulled her hand away and stared at him directly; “I meant what I said Jackson, you don’t have to act differently with Edwards, it’s really okay” she said.

Jackson took a deep breath before answering; “She broke up with me that’s why we’re being professional”

April’s eyes widen in shock; she opened her mouth to speak but when no words came out she closed it again.

Jackson smiled at her weakly; “Don’t worry about it, it was going to end soon anyway, she just sped up the process I guess.”

April cleared her throat; “Are--are you alright?” she asked.

“I am.”

April studied his face and bit her bottom lip; “I’m sorry that it didn’t work out for you two...” she whispered.

Jackson was about to respond but was cut off when he saw Ross pushing the gurney frantically towards Trauma Room 1; he cringed as he watches the intern flounder and panic. “I think I should check that” he said while gesturing towards Ross.

April moved her gaze towards the room that Jackson is pointing at; after a couple of seconds of watching she fell into fits of giggles. “You should, I think he’s about ready to collapse even before he gets to touch the patient.”

“He’s your guy, huh?” Jackson teased before rushing towards the room.

April guffawed; “He still is!” she yelled.

“Dr. Kepner I need your help here please!”

April’s head snapped towards the hysterical voice and saw her other intern on top of the moving gurney performing chest compressions on the bloodied patient; she quickly ran towards them and began steering it towards Trauma Room 2. “Page Dr. Hunt, Dr. Yang and Dr. Bailey now!” she yelled.

oOo

April stepped out of Trauma Room 2 with a wince; she closed the door behind her and gently placed her hand on her slightly sore abdomen. She took a deep calming breath before she started hobbling towards the nurses’ station; once she reached the desk, she leaned her arms on top of it and closed her eyes.

“Kepner!”

April cringed before opening her eyes and turning around; “Yes Chief?”

Owen stood directly behind her with his hands braised on his hips; “What did I tell you earlier?” he asked sternly.

“Err—that I only do consult’s, admin works, minor non surgical procedures and I should take it easy?” April replied.

Owen narrowed his eyes at his student; “Exactly. So why did you try to haul the patient sideways?”

April swallowed hard; “I---I did what I had to do Chief, I had to turn him to side so Dr. Edwards can—“

“I know but the patient is twice your size! You could’ve asked the Paramedic guy who happens to be there with you to turn him instead of doing it yourself. You know that you can’t lift heavy stuff yet and I made it very clear that I only allowed you back inside this pit because you agreed to my rules.”

April lowered her eyes to floor, feeling completely chastised.

Owen let out a sigh upon seeing his student’s downcast demeanour; “I’m not mad because you disobeyed me, I’m mad because I’m looking out for you but you’re not looking after yourself.”

April lifted her gaze and offered a small smile; “I’m sorry...”

“I know you miss handling this stuff because you’ve been out of commission for quite some time but I don’t want you compromising yourself just because you miss it” Owen explained. He then stood straighter and crossed his arms on top of his chest; “I know the lifting stuff is from adrenalin rush, now be honest, does your incision hurt?” he asked while eyeing her inquisitively.

April made a face; “Kinda...” she replied.

Owen shook his head as he chuckles; “I noticed you walking funny when you left the room that’s why I followed you. Well, take a breather for 30 minutes, I can handle the pit for the moment” he said.

“But—“

Owen narrowed his eyes; “No buts. The Chief is ordering you, so scoot!”

April pursed her lips; “Fine. I’ll be back in 30” she relented.

Owen smirked; “Good girl” he said.

April rolled her eyes.

oOo

“The bleeding inside her abdomen is too much, I need to get in there to find the source“ Dr. Bailey said.

Jackson turned his head towards the intern; “Ross, book O.R. 2 now” he barked.

“Right away Dr. Avery” Shane replied.

Jackson turned towards Miranda; “Her nose bridge is completely shattered but I can definitely fix it, the burn on her legs is superficial so it can wait.”

“I’ll page you once I’m done” Miranda replied.

“O.R. 2 is being prepped and it should be ready by the time you go there” Shane said.

Jackson faced Ross; “You will scrub in with Dr. Bailey but as soon as you’re done, page me.”

“I will Dr. Avery. Thank you” Shane replied.

Miranda pulled the side railing of gurney and began pushing it; “Move people!” she barked.

oOo

April was drinking water when she saw Alex and Meredith coming towards her direction; she swallowed a mouthful before screwing the bottle cap on. “Hey”

“Hey Apes!” Meredith greeted before pulling a chair and plopping down.

Alex moved towards the other chair and just braised his hand on it; “I thought you’re handling the pit?”

“I was but Chief Hunt kicked me out and put me into a 30 minute time out” April pouted.

“You’ve only been there for an hour and you already manage to get your ass kicked? Wow! You must be super annoying that even Hunt can’t stand you” Alex teased.

April smiled sarcastically at Alex; “You’re an ass”

Alex chuckled.

“So why were you thrown out?” Meredith asked curiously.

April pursed her lips; “There was an incoming Trauma and Edwards was panicking, we had to turn the patient to his side and I sort off hauled him so Edwards can work on him” she replied.

Alex raised his brow; “How big was your patient?” he asked.

April made a face; “His not that big...”

Alex snickered and turned towards Meredith; “Meaning, his twice her size” he concluded.

“April!” Meredith said chastisingly.

April huffed; “I’m fine! It didn’t hurt as much” she said defiantly.

“You deserve to have your butt kicked. Where the hell is Avery? He’s supposed to babysit you the whole day? Don’t tell me he chickened out after he valiantly volunteered” Alex asked with a frown.

April’s eyes widen; “He volunteered?” she asked.

Meredith nodded; “He did. Alex offered since he’s kids aren’t here yet but Jackson stepped in” she replied with a smile.

April leaned back on her chair, clearly in a daze.

Alex smirked; “Don’t drop your panties yet Kepner, he’s still with Edwards” he teased.

“Stop being so crass Alex!” Meredith said.

April ignored Alex’s crude comments and just stared at the water bottle on top of the table.

Alex just shrugged his shoulders; “Just saying” he said.

Meredith rolled her eyes.

oOo

Jackson pulled the door open to Trauma Room 1 and stepped outside the hallway; he furrowed his brows and began walking towards the nurses’ station. “Chief?”

Owen tore his eyes away from the Electronic Patient Tracker screen and stared at the other Attending; “Has your patient been moved to O.R. 2?” he asked.

Jackson nodded; “Yes, Dr. Bailey has her.”

“Good” Owen replied before moving his eyes towards the tab in his hands; he tapped at it couple of times, updating the large screen right in front of them.

“Where’s April? She’s the one who’s supposed to be updating that.”

Owen placed the tab on top of the desk and turned his gaze towards Jackson; “I put her into time out” he replied.

Jackson raised his brow; “Why?” he asked.

Owen leaned on the desk; “Because she’s walking funny and I think her incision hurts”

Jackson shoved his hands inside his pocket and frowned; “Is she alright? I mean I just left her here a couple of minutes ago and she seemed fine”

“That’s before she hauled a 200 lbs man to his side” Owen replied.

Jackson’s eyes widen in disbelief; “She what?” he asked.

Owen rolled his eyes; “She was trying to help Edwards and didn’t thought of the Paramedic with them. You know how Kepner gets when Trauma comes” he explained.

“Where is she then? Is she okay?”

“I put her on time out so she can rest for a bit, I’m guessing she’s in the cafeteria brooding” Owen replied.

Jackson smiled wryly; “I have a feeling that she’s not liking that one bit”

Owen chuckled; “She didn’t” he replied.

Jackson just shook his head.

Owen cleared his throat and crossed his arms on top of his chest; “Her boards are coming up, do you know if she’s having difficulties in reviewing? I was a little hesitant to allow her back because she might not have ample time to review but you know how hard headed she can get.”

Jackson met Owen’s eyes directly; “She’ll pass it this time” he said with conviction.

“She’ll definitely crush them this year” Owen replied.

Jackson smiled; “She will.”

oOo

Alex pulled a chair and sat down; he then leaned back and crossed his legs. “Your boards are coming up, you still reviewing?” he asked.

April uncapped her bottle and took a swig before answering; “Don’t remind me. I’ve been reviewing like crazy since last month.”

Meredith smiled; “Don’t worry about it too much, you’ll pass.”

Alex smirked; “We’ll even throw you a party and you can dance on top of the sofa like last year” he teased.

April felt her cheeks flush with embarrassment; “Oh god. Please don’t bring that up”

Meredith laughed; “You were quite wasted that night” she said.

April groaned and buried her face into her palms.

“There’s nothing to be ashamed about, you had a shitty day. Pissed drunk Kepner trumps sulky Kepner, it’s a win-win for us” Alex said.

Meredith laughed harder.

April pulled her face away from her hands and scowled at Alex; “You’re being a douche” she snapped.

Alex shrugged his shoulders; “I do what I can”

Meredith shook her head; “If you still need help with reviewing we can help you, right Alex?” she said before turning her eyes towards the Ped’s Attending.

Alex bobbed his head in agreement; “Yeah”

“Really?”

Meredith nodded; “Of course. I still have the flash cards we used last year, I’m pretty sure those cases will still be used this year.”

April smiled widely; “Are you guys serious? I mean, I wouldn’t want to bother you or anything—“

“Throwing questions and making you squirm is much more fun than watching you flounder alone, believe me” Alex said.

April pursed her lips while thinking.

“Come on Apes, that was a no brainer question. We would love to help, I bet even Cristina will be thrilled to grill you with her questions” Meredith said.

April smiled; “Fine.”

Alex grinned as he rubs his palms together; “When can the grilling start?” he asked excitedly.

April laughed nervously; “Err---it’s up to you guys, really...”

“I can’t today, I don’t have the cards and I’m swamped with procedures today” Meredith replied.

Alex grinned even wider; “I can start today, my African kids aren’t here yet” he said.

“Oh? Don’t you have procedures lined up today?” April asked.

Alex shook his head; “Nope, it was cancelled because of my African kids” he replied.

April puffed out a breath and moved her eyes towards her wrist watch; “If that’s the case then we can start but I need to head towards the pit, my 30 minutes time out is already finish” she said while standing up.

Alex shot up from his perch and began rotating his shoulders; “Lead the way” he said.

April rolled her eyes; she then turned towards the other surgeon and smiled. “Well we better go. I’ll see you later Mer and again thank you!” she said.

Meredith waived her hand dismissively; “Stop thanking me Apes. Go now and let Alex torture you, scoot!”

April plucked her water bottle from the table and spun on her heels; “Come on Karev!” she said.

Alex smirked at his oldest friend; “I will enjoy this. See you later Mer!” he said cheerily.

oOo

Jackson was charting on the nurses’ station when he felt someone standing behind him.

“Dr. Avery?”

Jackson paused and turned; “Yes?” he asked.

“Chief Hunt asked me to tell you that he forgot to update the board, the patient in Trauma Room 2 has already been moved to O.R. 3 and Dr. Yang is currently operating” Stephanie said.

Jackson furrowed his brows and turned his gaze towards the electronic board; “Yeah, looks like he didn’t” he said. He then plucked the tab beside the charts and began tapping at its screen; after a couple of seconds, the board blinked and the information was updated. “There you go”

Stephanie eyed the board and nodded; “I’ll tell Chief Hunt” she said before turning on her heels.

“Steph---”

Stephanie paused; she then turned her head and threw her ex beau a questioning look.

Jackson stared at her for a couple of seconds before speaking; “I know our situation now is awkward and I just want to apologize for that. April needed help on her first week back so Hunt asked me to co-pilot the pit today” he explained.

Stephanie met his gaze and let out a small smile; “You don’t have to explain, it’s okay, we’re cool.”

Jackson let out a sigh of relief before smiling; “Thank you for understanding” he replied.

“Is there anything else?” Stephanie asked.

Jackson shook his head; “No, that’s it” he replied.

Stephanie nodded before walking away.

Jackson shifted and placed the tab back on top of the desk; he plucks the pen and continued with his charting.

“We really don’t have to do this now, you know. We can like start tomorrow, it’s not like I’ll be hiding or something”

Jackson paused and turned his head sideways when he heard a familiar voice.

“Come on Apes! Why wait for tomorrow when we can get it on now!” Alex said loudly.

Jackson raised his brow as he watches the two bantering surgeons move towards his direction.

April pursed her lips; “You only want to torture me!”

Alex rolled his eyes; “I’m not torturing you, I’m actually helping you!”

April ignored his statement and stopped right in front of Jackson; “Hey” she greeted weakly.

“You okay?” Jackson asked.

“I will be, if you can get rid of Alex” April replied.

“Hey!”

Jackson peered behind April’s back; “Hey man, what’s up?”

Alex stood behind the Trauma Surgeon and leaned on the nurses’ station; “Kepner is being a pain in the ass.”

“I’m not!” April said indignantly.

Jackson also leaned sideways on the desk and stared at April; “Hunt told me you hauled a 200 lbs man and you’re walking funny, are you really okay?” he asked.

April huffed; “I’m okay! And that’s not the reason why Karev is harassing me!”

“Oh.”

Alex peeked from April’s back; “I’m helping her review for her boards” he supplied.

“You’re annoying me and you just want to torture me for your own amusement.”

Jackson furrowed his brows; “Do you need help in reviewing?” he asked.

Alex scoffed but didn’t say anything.

April turned to face Jackson and sighed; “I’m sort of confident with what I know but I’m not sure if that would be enough to help me pass my boards”’ she admitted.

“You will crush the boards this year Apes, we’re only offering help because we want to keep you on your toes and not because we think you’re gonna fail”

April turned her head sideways and threw Alex a smile; “Thank you, that was sweet of you” she replied.

“Whatever” Alex replied.

Jackson cleared his throat; “I can also help, I mean, since we’ll be working together the whole day, I can throw a question or two” he offered.

April turned her gaze back towards Jackson; “Really?” she asked.

Jackson smiled; “You’re really asking me that?” he teased.

April chuckled; “I’m just making sure, I mean, I don’t want to impose or anything”

Jackson rolled his eyes; “As if.”

Alex eyed the couple with interest before standing straight; he then shoved his hands inside his pockets and grinned like a Cheshire cat. “You know what, why don’t you guys quiz each other. I forgot, I still have a consult.”

“What? But you were just bugging me a while ago---“ April said as she turns around to face the Ped’s Attending.

Alex waives his hand dismissively as he saunters away; “Yeah, yeah. I forgot, get over it. Have Avery review you, I’ll see you later!” he said.

“But I don’t have any questions yet!” Jackson hollered.

“Not my problem Avery, use that pretty head of yours!” Alex replied before exiting the pit.

April puffed out air before turning towards the nurses’ station; “I can’t understand that man, he’s so weird” she said.

Jackson shook his head; “He’s an enigma, don’t even try” he replied. He then turned his eyes towards April as he shoves his hands inside his pockets; “Can you give me like 30 minutes? I still need to wrack my brain for board worthy questions” he said.

“You don’t really have to do this Jackson, you know” April said.

Jackson frowned; “But I want too. Don’t you want my help?”

April bit her bottom lip; “Of course I want your help, I need all the help I can get but it’s just that I don’t want to burden you more, I mean, you already have a lot in your plate like this hospital, your patients and err—your personal life” she babbled.

Jackson’s face softened; “You will never be a burden to me April and you should know that by now. Those things that you mentioned can wait; it’s not like the hospital will crumble if I take my eyes away from it. My patients won’t die if I throw a question or two at you and my personal life is—err—not existent at the moment so I have time, don’t worry about it” he explained.

April stared at him for a few seconds before smiling; “I appreciate this, thank you” she said with sincerity.

Jackson smiled back; “You are very much welcome. So, can you give me 30 minutes to think about questions that will boggle your mind?” he asked.

April laughed; “You’re on Jackman” she replied.

Jackson smirked.

oOo

Alex walked towards O.R. 1 and pushed the door open; he stepped into the room and held a mask in front of his mouth. “I’m down for 100 bucks and I’m changing my wager.”

“I need more suction here Wilson” Meredith instructed her intern. She then lifted her gaze and stared at her friend; “Huh? What changed your mind? What will it be then?” she asked.

“Nothing. I just want to pump it up a bit. I say he’ll grow balls and explode before the Mass Gen ship sails” Alex said.

Meredith laughed; “You’re awful Alex, did you tell Cristina?”

“Nope but I will. How many days did she bet on this time?” Alex asked curiously.

Meredith lowered her gaze back to the open cavity; “I think she’s down with 1 week” she replied.

Alex scoffed; “1 week? Pathetic. She’s pretty much throwing money at us, how about you?” he asked.

“After the boards” Meredith replied.

“Not bad Mer, not bad”

Meredith chuckled; “No heckling or meddling Alex, those are the rules”

“Whatever Mer, see you later!” Alex said before turning around and leaving.

“More suction Wilson” Meredith said.

oOo

April’s Boards: First day (Monday):

The week passed by like a breeze and the day that April is dreading has come. Today is the day she’ll leave for her boards and the red headed Trauma Surgeon is beyond nervous.

“Put away those freaking cards or I’ll burn them right in front of you!” Alex snapped.

April tore her eyes away from her flash cards and took a step back; “Stop being an ass Alex!” she replied.

Alex crossed his arms on top of his chest; “We’ve already quizzed you enough, if you don’t stop studying you might have a mental block or something”

“Oh god!” April gasped in horror.

Meredith slapped Alex’s back; “Not helping Alex,” she scolded.

Cristina chuckles as she stares at April; “Evil spawn is right you know...it does happen. So, be a good girl and stop studying”

April stared at the Cardio Surgeon for a few seconds before following the advice; she stacked the cards neatly in her hands and slipped it inside her jean’s back pocket.

“You’ll do good Apes, stop panicking and kick their asses!” Meredith said encouragingly.

April smiled weakly; “I’ll try...” she replied.

“Hey”

April turned around and saw Jackson walking towards her; “Hey...” she replied.

Jackson stood right in front of her and smiled; “You ready to crush them?” he asked.

“Yeah...I guess?” April replied while chuckling nervously. 

Jackson studied his best friend’s face and narrowed his eyes; he took one step forward and gently braised both hands on her shoulders. “You’ll be fine and you’ll do great. There’s nothing they can ask you that you will not be able answer. So, don’t panic and just calm it down” he soothed.

April stared at Jackson’s eyes; “But—“

Jackson shook his head; “There’s no buts’. You will do this and you will pass, after 12 midnight tomorrow you will be a board certified surgeon.”

April bit her bottom lip as she digests her person’s words; after a couple of seconds she took a deep breath and nodded. “You’re right, I can do this. I am soldier.”

Jackson pulled his hands and smiled; “I still don’t get that” he said.

April laughed.

“Hey Avery, why don’t you lend Kepner your binky, you know, for good luck?” Alex teased.

Meredith and Cristina snickered.

Jackson turned his gaze towards Alex and flipped him a finger; “Go to hell”

Alex laughed.

April wheeled her pink luggage right in front of her legs and cleared her throat; “Err---guys?” she said, garnering the four surgeon’s attention. She swallowed hard before speaking; “I just want to thank you all for helping me review last week. You guys had been awesome and I’ll try my very best not to disappoint you.”

“Awww...Kepner is being sentimental” Cristina teased good naturedly.

“You’re too neurotic not to pass Apes, I’m sure you’ll have your interviewers by the balls, just try not to annoy them and you’ll do fine” Alex said with a smile. 

“You’re an awesome surgeon Apes and I’m sure they’ll see that, so break a leg and make us proud” Meredith said.

“You’re a brilliant surgeon and you’ll do just fine” Jackson said. He then took a step back and threw her a loop-sided smile; “And oh, please refrain from engaging in bar room brawl, you need to have a good night sleep after all” he said while winking.

April’s eyes widen in disbelief; “You did not just say that!” she shrilled.

Alex and Cristina smirked while Meredith stared at the bantering couple with interest; “That’s what you’ve been up to while I was dying from stomach flu?”

“Yes” – “No” April and Jackson replied in unison. April then took a step forward and began hitting Jackson with her hand; “You’re an ass! What happened between me and you?”

Jackson chuckles as he deflects April’s hands.

“Kepner!”

April paused mid hit and turned towards her right; “Chief!”

Owen walked towards his first year Attendings’ and raised his brow in amusement; “Are you hitting Avery to alleviate your stress?”

April cheeks flushes as she meets her mentor’s inquisitive gaze; “I—Err—He’s being an ass!”

Owen shoved his hands inside his lab coat pockets; “Are you ready?” he asked.

April nodded; “I am” she replied.

Owen grinned; “Perfect. Now, remember to relax and try not to panic so much. Remember you are a soldier and every day we fight fiercer battles in the pit and that’s way harder than the situational crap that they’ll be throwing at you. Keep your chin up and be the surgeon you’re meant to be.”

“Oh, that’s where the soldier thing came from” Jackson murmured to himself.

April rolled her shoulders and took a deep breath; “I am a soldier and I’m gonna crush them, got it Chief!” she said.

Owen chuckled; “Get your ass in that bus, you can’t crush them if you’re still standing here” he instructed.

April grasped her luggage’s handle and squared her shoulders; she then turned towards her friends and smiled widely. “Wish me luck guys! I’ll see you on Wednesday!” she said before scurrying towards the bus.

“Good luck!” Owen and Jackson hollered in unison.

“Don’t annoy them Kepner! Good luck!” Alex yelled.

“Break a leg!” Cristina said.

“Make us proud!” Meredith piped in.

April climbed on the bus and walked towards her seat; she settled herself near the window and waived to her friends.

The five remaining surgeon’s watched the bus move and drive out of the hospital’s drive way. Owen was the first to speak; “She’ll do fine, she’s ready.”

Jackson shoved his hands inside his pockets and smiled; “She is”

Meredith looped her arm with Alex’s and Cristina’s; “Come on guys, let’s have coffee” she said.

oOo

April’s Boards: Second day (Tuesday):

April was drinking club soda on the bar when she heard her name being called; she turned to her right and smiled when she recognized who’s walking towards her.

“April baby, you made it!”

“I did, it’s nice finally seeing you Dr. Avery” April replied.

Catherine pulled the Trauma surgeon into a tight hug; after a few seconds she pulled away and cupped April’s face into her palms. “What did I tell you about calling me Catherine?” she chided.

April cringed; “I’m sorry, I always forget” she replied.

Catherine rolled her eyes at her response before tilting April’s face side to side; “You look good baby, much better than the last time I saw you. How are you?” she asked as she pulls her hands away.

April smiled; “I’m good”

Catherine pulled the chair next to the red head and sat herself down. “How was your first two sessions?” she asked with a smile.

April chuckled nervously; “It was not what I expected but I feel good about my answers.”

Catherine chuckled; “They changed the format a little bit this year so I’m pretty sure you were surprised but that’s good to hear, I’m sure you’ll ace it this year baby.”

“I sure hope so, I don’t know what I’ll do if I flunk it again.”

Catherine leaned forward and squeezed the young surgeon’s hand comfortingly; “You will pass it so don’t think about that silly possibility” she said.

April squeezed back; “Thank you” she said sincerely.

Catherine smiled back before hopping off her chair; she then straightened her dress and fixed her coat. “Well, I better go baby. As much as I want to catch up with you I can’t, they may change the game a bit but they decided to keep the stupid rules.”

April laughed; “Something’s are meant to be the same” she said.

“I know. What time is your plane leaving?”

“9 P.M. but my shuttle leaves at 5:30”

Catherine pursed her lips while in thought; “Do you really have to be in that shuttle?” she asked.

“Err—not really, it’s easier than getting a cab”

Catherine smirked; “Let’s have an early dinner to celebrate your boards then I’ll take you to the Airport”

“But I haven’t passed yet and I’m sure that you have better things to do and I---“

“Oh hush! You will pass this damn boards baby and I’m not taking no for an answer. So, just text me after your last session then we’ll go from there, okay?”

April let out a defeated sigh before smiling; “Okay, I’ll see you later” she said.

Catherine leaned forward and patted April’s cheek fondly; “I’ll see you later baby and good luck!” she said before walking away.

April watched Jackson’s mother saunter away before turning towards the bar again; she grasped her glass with her hands and sighed. “You can do this, you are a soldier” she said to herself.

oOo

“How do you think is Kepner doing?” Alex asked the three surgeons sitting around the table inside the cafeteria.

“I’m hoping that she’s not having a meltdown” Cristina replied. She then turned towards Jackson as she bites her carrot stick; “Did she give you an update or something?” she asked.

Jackson stopped pushing the food on his plate and turned his gaze towards Cristina; “Nope, not a single text from her” he replied.

Meredith, noticing Jackson’s sulky mood decided to lighten up the conversation; “I’m sure April is just busy and she’s doing fine” she offered while throwing Alex a look.

Alex, understanding Mer’s look just nodded in agreement; “Yeah, we all how long those stupid sessions can get” he appeased.

Cristina perceived what her two friends were doing so she decided to cut the Plastics Attending a slack; she cleared her throat and moved her gaze towards Alex. “So, have you decided if you’ll be going?”

Alex pursed his lips as he leans back on his chair; “Robbins won’t back off, she’s been hounding me for weeks and threatened to pull me out of her cases if I don’t go” he complained.

Meredith chuckled; “She can be pushy if she wants to”

Alex rolled his eyes; “I’m not a push over”

Cristina smirked; “You definitely not a push over evil spawn but its Robbins we’re talking about here” she jibbed.

Alex scrunched his face with distaste; “I should’ve been in that damn plane”

Meredith rolled her eyes; “And that will make a huge difference” she said sarcastically.

Alex eyed his old friend and sighed; “I’m sorry, I’m being an ass” he said.

Jackson cleared his throat; “Are you going Yang?” he asked.

Cristina puffed out a breath; “I want---there are factors to consider” she corrected herself while eyeing Meredith.

Meredith averted her gaze and began prodding the chicken on her plate.

“You’re in an impasse then,” Jackson said with a sigh.

Cristina nodded; “I guess”

Alex leaned forward and braised his elbows on top of the table; “Does it have to be a year? I mean, 6 months can do the trick. It’s not as if Mass Gen is practicing a different kind of medicine”

“Well, Mass Gen wants, Mass Gen gets apparently” Jackson said bitterly.

Alex frowned; “I don’t get the hype with that hospital. We also have an impressive roster of doctors here, that exchange program is full of crap” he said.

Jackson nodded in agreement; “I’m with you man” he replied.

Cristina rolled her eyes while Meredith continues prodding her food.

oOo

Jackson was doing routine post op with one his patients when his phone rang; he turned towards his intern as he pulls it out of his pocket. “Make sure to update his charts before you leave, I have to get this” he said.

“Will do, Dr. Avery” Shane replied.

Jackson nodded before stepping out of the patient’s room; he tapped on the screen and moved it to his ears. “Hey Mom,”

“Hi baby, how are you?”

“I’m in the middle of my post ops, what do you want?” Jackson asked bluntly.

“I’m sorry to disturb you baby, I just wanted to call to tell you that I’m having dinner with April”

Jackson frowned; he then walked towards the nearest supply closet and shut himself in. “Why are you having dinner with April? Are you hovering over her? Leave her be for goodness sake, she’s taking her boards and she doesn’t need any distraction or meddling!”

“Oh hush! I’m not meddling or anything. I’ll just take her to dinner to celebrate her boards and nothing more.”

Jackson felt his body relax; he then leaned back on the closed door and cleared his throat. “Do you have any idea how she’s doing?” he asked.

“Well, I haven’t heard anything from my colleagues about a failing surgeon from SGMW so I think all is well. She’ll pass baby, don’t worry about it”

Jackson sighed; “I’m just worried about her, she was so nervous when she left and she hasn’t called or texted any of us” he replied.

“They changed the format of the sessions this year so April doesn’t have much time to spare. But I’m sure once her last session is over, you’ll hear from her”

“Oh okay, how is she by the way?” Jackson asked.

“I saw her at the bar just a couple of hours ago, she looks great and relaxed”

Jackson furrowed his brows; “What do you mean at the bar? Is she drinking alcohol? She can’t drink alcohol yet, is she alone?” he asked simultaneously.

“Calm down son, she was not drinking alcohol, just club soda. And I’m pretty sure April knows that she can’t drink alcohol yet”

“Who is she drinking with?”

“She was drinking alone when I found her, what’s with these questions?”

Jackson let out a relieved sigh; “Err—nothing. So, are you having dinner?” he asked changing the topic.

“Yes we are. I offered to take her to the Airport after so she doesn’t have to ride that hideous shuttle your hospital rented.”

Jackson chuckled; “The shuttle is not hideous, you’re over-reacting again.”

“It’s hideous! Why on earth would you choose a yellow school bus to drive your doctors from the Airport to the hotel? I taught you better than that!”

Jackson shook his head in amusement; “It’s cost efficient and the Airport is what, 15 minutes away from the hotel. I’m sure our doctors would prefer us to spend the extra budget on something worthwhile rather than throwing it into frivolous things.”

“I still hate that bus! It’s so awful!”

Jackson laughed; “You’re not riding it, so give it a rest” he snickered.

“Fine but I’m not letting my future daughter in law ride such a cheap ride just because my son is being stingy!”

Jackson’s laughter died upon hearing his mother’s words; he tried to open his mouth to speak but no word seems to come out of his lips.

“It was nice talking to you baby, I’ll see you soon, I love you!”

Jackson’s jaw slackened upon hearing the familiar click of a call being disconnected; he felt blood rush to his cheeks as he digests what his mother just implied. He slowly pulled the phone away from his ear and stared at its screen; “Did she just hang up on me? What the fuck?” he said in disbelief.

“Whoa! Calm it down Avery”

Jackson’s head snapped sideways and stared at the room’s new occupant; “How long have you been there?”

Callie pulled a couple of cast materials before answering; “Long enough to hear you yell at your phone” she replied.

Jackson narrowed his eyes; “So you just got here?” he asked, suspicion clearly evident in his voice.

Callie rolled her eyes; “I’m not eavesdropping if that’s what you’re thinking. But let me give you a piece of advice here, if you want to have a private conversation with someone on the phone, just hit the rooftop, you’ll get more privacy there.”

Jackson shoved his phone inside his lab coat pocket and nodded; “I’ll keep that in mind, thank you” he replied.

Callie nodded; “No problem” she said before turning on her heels and leaving the room. 

oOo

April entered her suite with a large smile pasted on her face; she just finished her last session and she felt positive about it. She trotted towards her bed and plopped down; “It’s done, I’m finally done!” she said happily. She then turned towards her side and shifted closer to the side table; she pulled the drawer open and fished out her phone. She unlocked the screen and began browsing through her phonebook; her finger paused at a familiar number and almost instantly her heart started beating erratically. She bit her bottom lip while contemplating but before she was able to decide, her phone vibrated, signalling an incoming text. She shook her head to clear her thoughts before tapping on the screen again; she clicked on the messaging app and felt her breath hitch when she read the message.

“Hey, I just want to check how you’re doing. I hope you rocked the boards just like how we planned. Don’t freak out, I know you’ll pass. Let me know if you need anything. –Jackman”

April stared at the screen and read the message multiple times; she then took a deep calming breath before she tapped on the name and hitting the call button. She shifted the phone to her ear and waited for the call to connect; the line gave out a familiar ringing sound as she bit her bottom lip harder.

“Hey”

April felt her heart skip a beat upon hearing the familiar voice; she cleared her throat before speaking. “Hey”

“Everything okay?”

April moved her other hand to the comforter and began straightening the creases; “Yep, I just called to tell you that my last session is finished” she replied.

“That’s good. How are you? You feeling okay?”

April felt a little smile slip to her lips; “I’m great, it was great.”

“You were great I’m sure. What time will you be flying out?”

“My flight leaves at 9 P.M” April replied. She then stilled her other hand upon remembering her earlier conversation with the renowned Urologist; “Oh, I just saw your Mom earlier and she asked me to dinner.”

“I know, she called me a couple of hours ago to let me know. You don’t have to though, I can call her up and make excuses for you.”

April chuckled; “Yeah, as if she’ll listen to you. She pretty much didn’t give me a chance to think about it, she offered me a ride to the Airport, how can I say no to that.”

“You don’t need a ride, you have shuttle services.”

April huffed; “I can’t believe you hired a yellow school bus to drive us around town. Our shuttle services last year looks much better, are you being stingy now?”

“Is it that awful?”

April giggled; “It’s horrible! Did you even see it?”

“Err---through pictures?”

“Don’t trust the pictures next time, their deceiving” April replied, laughter still evident from her voice.

“My mom was not over reacting then, she gave me an earful when she called me. She even told me that she taught me better than that and I’m being stingy”

April just laughed.

“It was not my decision alone, it was Hunt who overlooked the transportation, he just made me sign.”

April stifled her laughter and cleared her throat; “Well, you should tell Hunt that it was a horrible idea. I’ll even take a picture and show it to him when I get back tomorrow” she said.

“Do that.”

“Well I have to cut this short, I still need to prepare my things.”

“Okay, I’ll talk to you later.”

“Okay, bye Jackman!” April chirped.

“Don’t freak out okay? You’ll pass”

April smiled; “I won’t and I’ll call you if I fail so you can freak out with me” she joked.

“You’re not gonna fail, have a little faith in yourself. And do call me once the results are in, so we can celebrate.”

April bit her bottom lip; “You might be sleeping by the time I see the results”

“Nope, I’m on call tonight.”

“Oh okay. Alright, I’ll call you either way.”

“Have fun and don’t let my mother have her way with you too much, okay?”

April chuckled; “I can handle your mom Jackman and Catherine is not that bad”

“Say’s you.”

April rolled her eyes; “Whatever. I’ll talk to you later, bye!”

“Bye”

April pulled the phone away from her ear and disconnected the line; she let out a huge smile before collapsing on her bed.

oOo

“You seem to be in a good mood, what gives?” Cristina asked as she saunters inside the Attendings’ Lounge.

Jackson leaned back on the couch and smiled; “I just spoke with April and she just told me that her last session was over and she’s feeling positive about it.”

Cristina walked toward the ref and pulled it open; she leaned forward and plucked a bottle of grape juice. “That’s good to hear, what time is her flight?”

“9 P.M.” Jackson replied.

Cristina uncapped her bottle and turned her eyes towards the wall clock; “Looks like she’ll be waiting for a long time, she still has 5 hours to spare”

Jackson stood up from the couch and gathered his lab coat from the coffee table; “She’ll have dinner with my mother, I’m pretty sure that’ll take care of her idle time” he replied.

Cristina eyed the Plastic Surgeon with interest before taking a sip of her drink.

Jackson turned towards Cristina and saw her eyeing him; “What?” he asked.

“Does Kepner hang out with your Mom a lot?”

Jackson narrowed his eyes; “Yeah, why?” he asked.

Cristina shrugged her shoulders; “Nothing, just curious” she replied.

Jackson eyed the Cardio Attending intently before deciding that it’s not worth talking about; he shrugged on his lab coat and began walking towards the door. “See you later Yang” he said before stepping out.

Cristina watched the door closed before smiling widely; “Momma Avery will definitely pump up this wager”

oOo

April existed the elevator and made her way to the lobby; she wheeled her luggage behind her as tries to search for one of her colleagues. She stopped right in front of the receptions area and leaned forward; “Hi, I just want to know if Dr. Avery already checked out.”

The receptionist lifted her gaze from the computer and smiled the Trauma Surgeon; “I’ll go ahead and check for you, just one moment please” she said politely.

“Thank you” April replied. She then turned her gaze towards the sitting area, trying to spot a familiar face.

“Ma’am, Dr. Avery has not checked out yet but she should any minute now.”

April turned her gaze back at the receptionist and smiled; “Thank you” she replied.

“Dr. Kepner? The shuttle is already loading luggage’s’”

April turned towards her right and saw one of her colleagues; “Hi Dr. Anderson, you’re just the person I want to see” she said cheerily.

Dr. Anderson raised his brow and stared at his colleague; “Err---why?” he asked.

“I’m not riding the shuttle to the Airport, I’ve got dinner with someone before we fly out. I need you to take off my name from the list” April explained.

Dr. Anderson furrowed his brows; “But the protocol says that all surgeons should ride the bus” he said.

“It’s okay, I already spoke with Dr. Avery about this and he gave me a go signal” April replied.

“Oh.”

April smiled shyly; “I’m sorry to cause you inconvenience but I really can’t bail on this one, I would if I could” she said apologetically.

Dr. Anderson waived his hand dismissively; “It’s okay, just be sure to check in 3 hours before the flight.”

April nodded; “I will. Thank you!” she chirped.

Dr. Anderson smiled; “I’ll see you then, have a good dinner” he said before walking away.

“Will do, be safe!” April hollered.

Dr. Anderson didn’t turn around but waived his hand.

April then turned towards the receptionist again; “Err—excuse me?”

The receptionist turned towards her again; “Is there anything else Ma’am?”

April wheeled her luggage right in front of the desk; “I’m really sorry to ask you this but can you watch my luggage for just 5 minutes? I really need to go to our bus to do something and it would only slow me down if I wheel this along with me” she said.

The receptionist smiled as she stood up from her chair; “No problem Ma’am. Let me just get it from there and I’ll keep it for you until you come back.”

April smiled widely; “You are a life saver” she replied.

The receptionist shifted away from her desk and met April at the side; she grabbed the handle away from April and wheeled it towards her chair. “There you go” she said.

“Thank you! I’ll be back in 5 minutes” April said as she made a bee line towards the exit.

oOo

Catherine Avery sauntered towards the reception desk and dangled her keys with her fingers; “Hi there, I’m checking out” she said.

The receptionist turned her gaze and smiled; she accepted the keys and turned her gaze towards her computer. “Ah, here we are. Dr. Catherine Avery?”

“The one and only” Catherine replied.

The receptionist punched a couple of keys from the keyboard before lifting her gaze again; “All done. Thank you for staying in our hotel, I hope we made it worth your while”

Catherine chuckled; “It was a fun stay dear. Oh, would you happen to know if Dr. Kepner already checked out?” she asked.

The receptionist smiled; “Let me check that for you.”

“Thank you”

“Yes Ma’am, Dr. Kepner already checked out 5 minutes ago” The receptionist said. She then scrunched her face, trying to remember something, after a couple of seconds a look of understanding dawned on her face. “Err---Ma’am, is Dr. Kepner a red head? I mean, does she have long auburn hair and she’s petite?”

Catherine nodded; “Yes, that’s her, why?” she asked.

“She’s been here a couple of minutes ago, looking for you. She just stepped out because she told me that she need to run a quick errand but she’ll be back in 5 minutes, she actually left her luggage with me” The receptionist said while gesturing towards the bright pink luggage beside her.

“Oh, I see, I guess I’ll just wait for her here then” Catherine said.

The receptionist nodded; “Okay” she replied.

“Dr. Avery! I’m so sorry you had to wait for me, did you wait long?” April said as she approached her best friend’s mother.

Catherine turned around and fixed the red head with a stern gaze; “Dr. Avery? Really April? How many times do I have to tell you to call me Catherine?” she chided.

April felt her cheeks flush as she moved closer; “I’m sorry I always forget” she said.

Catherine rolled her eyes; “I think the anaesthesia they used on you muddled your memory a bit” she teased.

April wrinkled her nose; “I think so too”

“Where have you been baby? The receptionist told me you had to run a errand”

April grinned; “I took a picture of our bus” she replied.

Catherine’s face morphed into a look of distaste; “Why do you need a picture of that hideous bus?” she asked.

April giggled; “I had to show Jackson what it really looks like. He told me a while ago that the picture on the brochure doesn’t look bad so I had to take one for myself to prove us right” she said.

“Did Jackson call you?” Catherine asked with a sly smirk painted on her lips.

April chuckled nervously as she quickly averted her gaze; “Err—I called him a while ago because he texted me, no biggie, we just talked for like 5 minutes” she babbled.

“Okay dear, if you say so. Now, are you ready to have dinner?”

April moved her gaze back to Catherine and nodded; “Yep, I’m starving” she replied.

Catherine chuckled; “I bet you are, you’re too skinny. Now, grab your luggage and follow me to the car” she said.

oOo

“Dr. Avery?”

Jackson tore his eyes away from his tab and turned towards the door; “Yes, Ross?”

“I already did all your post ops and updated the charts. Is there anything else you need me to do?” Shane asked nervously.

Jackson took a peek at the wall clock near the door before turning his gaze back to his intern; “No, that would be it. You can go home now and thank you” he said.

Shane nodded; “Alright Sir, have a good night” he said before stepping out.

Jackson watched his inter scurry away from the room before moving his eyes back to his tab; he was about to continue with his scheduling when he heard a faint knock on the door.

“You going home or you’re on call tonight?”

Jackson turned towards the door again and made a face; “Unfortunately I’m on call tonight, how about you?”

Alex leaned on the door frame and crossed his arms on top of his chest; “I’m on call, AGAIN, fourth time this week. Robbins is killing me” he huffed.

Jackson chuckled; “Mass Gen crap?” he asked.

Alex frowned; “Mass Gen sucks!” he said.

Jackson leaned back on his chair while shaking his head; “April called me a couple of hours ago” he said.

“Oh really? Is she having an epic meltdown?” Alex asked.

Jackson smiled; “Nope, she’s quite confident this time” he replied.

Alex smiled; “Good to hear. What time will she be flying back?”

“9 P.M”

Alex nodded; “Don’t worry, she’ll pass” he assured.

Jackson nodded; “She will,” he replied.

oOo

“So tell me baby, what’s new with you?” Catherine asked as she sipped her martini.

April placed her fork down and swallowed; “Nothing much really. Chief Hunt is still barring me from surgeries so it’s admin work for me for now” she replied.

Catherine nodded in approval; “Well, you can’t run yourself ragged yet. You shouldn’t be working yet, you know.”

April made a face; “I’m fine, my incision is healing well. I can do minor surgical procedures but Chief Hunt banned me from the Trauma Rooms” she complained.

Catherine chuckled; “I’m sure you can, but sometimes we have to rest our body well to properly heal” she then paused. “What on earth did you do that got you banned?” she asked with interest.

April pursed her lips; “He’s over reacting, it’s not as if I bled to death or something”

Catherine raised her brow, urging the young surgeon to tell her more.

April saw Catherine’s inquisitive look so she continued; “It was stupid but I sort of hauled a 200 lbs man to his side. But it was an emergency! And Dr. Edwards was panicking and she can’t turn the patient to his side so I had to step in. I mean, I can’t let the man died just because my intern can’t do what needs to be done” she explained.

Catherine shook her head; “Oh sweetie, you know you can’t lift heavy things yet. Hunt made the right call then, you’ve earned it” she said.

April pouted; “I know, it’s just hard not to rush into these things, I mean, I’m a Trauma Surgeon after all.”

Catherine smiled; “And you are brilliant with what you do but you have to take it slow” she said.

April nodded; “Thank you and I’ll keep that in mind” she said.

Catherine then took a sip of her drink; “I heard Mass Gen is doing an exchange program and some birdy told me that you’re a prospective candidate...” she trailed off.

“Oh” April gasped, she was caught completely off guard.

Catherine eyed the young surgeon; “Are you going then?” she asked.

April swallowed hard before sitting straighter; “Err—I haven’t decided yet, I mean, I haven’t passed my boards yet” she replied.

“You will pass your board’s baby, that’s why I’m asking. Now tell Momma Avery, do you plan on going?”

April bit her bottom lip; “I want to but there are factors to consider...”

Catherine leaned back on her chair; “Is my son a factor?” she asked bluntly.

April’s eyes widen in shock while her mouth slackened.

Catherine noticing the young surgeon’s comical expression chuckled; “Well, it just makes sense. He is your best friend and it’s Mass Gen, I’m quite sure he threw a fit upon hearing it.”

April closed her mouth and swallowed hard; “Did you know about this?” she asked.

Catherine clasped her hands together and shifted it under her chin; “I know this would come as a surprise because I always seem to meddle but I didn’t, I was just informed after Dr. Kurt made the call.”

“Oh”

Catherine wrinkled her nose; “Let me guess, Jackson thought it was my idea?” she asked.

April cleared her throat, clearly uncomfortable with the conversation. She took a deep breath before nodding; “He did...”

Catherine let out a defeated sigh; “He always seems to think of the worst of me” she said.

April’s face softened; “He does not, he’s just being petulant about it but we already talked and he doesn’t blame you.”

“Really?”

April smiled; “Yep, he may still bitch about it though,” she said thoughtfully.

Catherine chuckled; “I can deal with his whining he’s always been a whinny baby” she said.

April laughed; “Don’t let him hear you say that.”

Catherine laughed.

oOo

“Hey Shane!” Jo greeted.

“Hey” Shane replied as he walks towards the Locker Area. He stopped right in front of his cubby and pulled it open; “You done for the night?” he asked.

Jo lifted her legs on top of the bench and yawned; “Yep, how about you?”

“Yep, Dr. Avery seems to be in a good mood so he sent me home” Shane replied.

Jo scrunched her face; “Is he ever in a good mood?”

Shane chuckled as he pulls his scrubs top off; “Believe it or not, he is”

“Good for you then”

Shane pulled his shirt on before turning towards Jo; “Have you seen Steph? I feel like I haven’t seen her since last week” he said.

Jo braised her hands behind her and tried her best to recline without falling off the bench; “She’s been around, running along Bailey’s service” she replied.

Shane nodded; “That explains” he said.

“Did you know?”

Shane raised his brow; “Did I know what?”

“That Steph and Dr. Pretty eyes broke up?”

Shane’s eyes widen in shock; “They what?”

Jo nodded solemnly; “Steph broke up with him last week because Dr. Pretty eyes weren’t able to answer when she asked him if he’s in love with her” she explained.

“Oh”

“He’s such a douche! I know he’s our Attending and he practically owns the hospital but he’s still an asshole!”

Shane crossed his arms on top of his chest; “It’s not that I’m siding with Dr. Pretty eyes or anything but Stephanie had it coming. I mean, everyone knows that he’s not serious and it’s just about casual sex and all...”

Jo bit her lip; “I know but our girl got attached, I already told her multiple times that she’s not that type of girl. I mean, Heather and Leah can do casual but not her, she’s stubborn and she’s too caught up with those pretty hypnotizing eyes” she said.

Shane chuckled; “What’s with the eyes, all the women here are practically drooling over it” he said.

Jo smirked; “It’s pretty, it’s a cross between blue and green and it changes depending on his mood apparently.”

Shane raised his brow; “And you’re not caught up with it?”

Jo laughed; “Nope, he’s too much of a douche to change my mind”

Shane laughed; “Yeah and Dr. Karev is not” he said.

Jo’s laughter automatically died down upon hearing the Ped’s Attending name; she then frowned and sat straight. “Don’t go there” she said.

Shane rolled his eyes; “Whatever. I’m heading to Joe’s want to come?” he asked.

Jo stood up from her perch and moved towards her own cubby; “Yeah, I guess.”

oOo

“We’re here!” Catherine announced happily.

April wheeled her luggage right in front of her knees and braised her hands on the handle; “Yep, time to go home” she chirped.

Catherine smiled; “You excited?” she asked.

April nodded; “I am, I miss my bed and I can’t wait to take a bath” she replied.

Catherine chuckled; she then moved towards the younger surgeon and pulled her into a tight hug. “It was nice seeing you baby”

April removed her hands away from her luggage and hugged the old surgeon back; “It was nice seeing you too, thank you for the wonderful dinner” she whispered.

Catherine pulled away and gently placed her hand on April’s cheek; “Don’t worry too much about your boards, I’m sure you passed and thank you for spending time with an old woman” she said.

April smiled fondly; “You’re not an old woman and it’s always fun spending time with you” she said sincerely.

Catherine smiled widely before pinching April’s cheek; “You’re so sweet, you take care of yourself and take care of my baby for me” she said.

April’s smile faltered; “Err—I’ll try my best” she replied.

“Go, you have to check in now” Catherine said.

April nodded; “Okay, have a safe flight and I’ll see you soon!” she said.

“Have a safe flight baby! See you soon, give my baby boy my kisses!” Catherine said while waiving.

April choked before letting out an awkward waive; “Bye!” she said before she spun on her heels.

Catherine watched the young surgeon’s reaction before bursting into fits of giggles; “Oh dear, you are so easy to wind up” she said while shaking her head.

oOo

Alex was eating chips on top of the E.R. bed when Jackson walked in; “I can’t get any decent food here. I want pizza” he said.

Jackson moved towards the bed and plopped down beside his friend; he snatched the bag from Alex’s hand and shoved his hand inside.

“Hey!”

Jackson ignored Alex’s protest and grasped a handful; he then stuffed the chips into his mouth and started chewing with vigour.

Alex snatched the chips bag from the other Attending and shoved his own hand inside; “Get your own”

Jackson braised his hands behind him as he reclines on his back; “I’m too tired to walk and I want pizza too” he said.

Alex’s face brightened when an idea hit him; “We can get the interns buy us food, where are they?” he asked as he scans the room.

Jackson yawned; “I sent mine home, use yours.”

Alex made a face; “I sent mine home too” he replied.

Jackson sighed; “Great! Now we’ll both die of starvation because we’re too lazy to get our ass moving” he said.

Alex laughed.

“What are you guys yapping about?”

Jackson moved his head sideways and saw Cristina standing a couple of beds away from them; “We’re hungry but we’re too lazy to move” he said wryly.

Cristina rolled her eyes as she walks towards her friend’s; “Get your intern’s to get you food then” she suggested.

Alex scoffed; “We would’ve but we already sent them home”

Cristina plopped down at the foot of the bed and crossed her arms on top of her chest; “That’s smart” she jibed.

Jackson rolled his eyes; “You’re on call too?” he asked.

Cristina sighed; “My patient just coded a couple of hours ago so I opted to stay” she replied.

Alex nodded; “Good call” he said.

The E.R. doors burst open as a flock of doctors sauntered in; Cristina stared at the commotion before turning her gaze towards Jackson. “What’s going on?” she asked.

Jackson eyed the scurrying doctors and yawned; “Board takers just arrived” he replied.

Cristina hopped off the bed and grinned; “Then why are we just sitting there? Let’s go find Kepner!” she said excitedly.

Jackson shook his head; “She’s not in that bus”

Alex moved head sideways and stared at his friend confusedly; “What do you mean Kepner’s not there?” he asked.

Jackson yawned again; “She texted me a couple of minutes ago telling me that she’ll head home to rest, the flight exhausted her apparently.”

Cristina scoffed; “She just wants to check her results alone!”

Alex snickered; “Or she just doesn’t want us to witness her crazies”

Jackson shook his head as he stood up; “She’s just tired guys, cut her some slack” he said before walking away.

Cristina crossed her arms on top of her chest as she studies the retreating surgeon with interest; “Mer, told me that you changed you bet, what gives?”

Alex smirked; “Nothing, I just want a little challenge is all” he replied.

Cristina narrowed her eyes at the Ped’s Attending; “You know something, spill it!”

Alex stood up from his perch and began walking away; “I don’t know anything, you’re crazy!” he replied.

Cristina huffed; “I’ll eventually find out Alex so you better tell me now!” she demanded.

Alex chuckled as he waives his hand; “No heckling Yang! Mer’s rules, not mine!”

oOo

April arrived at her apartment an hour ago but she just can’t seem to relax; she’s been pacing for 30 minutes now and she knows that it’s pathetic. Her phone buzzed five minutes ago signalling an incoming message but she just can’t make herself read it. She shook her head while rolling her shoulders; she then jumped a couple of times before walking towards her breakfast bar. “Come on Kepner, suck it up! It’s either you pass or you go home to Ohio and start working for Tastee Freez!” she said loudly. She then shifted closer and plucked the phone with her shaking hands; slowly, she unlocked the screen and felt her face pale when she saw that it’s her board results. She closed her eyes tightly before taking a deep calming breath; she then opened her eyes and tapped on the screen. She read each word with full focus and scrolled down at a snail pace; once she reached the last few sentences she felt her breath hitch in her throat. “Oh god!” she gasped. Her eyes widen as a large smiled crept towards her lips; she hugged the phone to her chest as she jumps up and down. “I passed! I freaking passed!” she yelled triumphantly. After a couple of second’s she pulled the phone away from her chest and started browsing through her phonebook excitedly; she searched for Jackson’s number and pressed the call button without thinking twice.

Jackson was dozing off in his chair when his phone vibrated; he wrinkled his nose and pulled the offending device from his pocket. He didn’t bother to check whose calling before moving it to his ear; “Hello” he greeted groggily.

“I PASSED JACKMAN! I FREAKING PASSED!!!”

Jackson’s eyes widen when he heard April’s familiar voice; he struggled to sit up but it was too late to realize that he had his feet on top of the table so before he can respond to her squeals of joy he toppled over.

April paused when she heard a loud thump on the other line; “Jackson?” she called out.

Jackson floundered on the floor before he was able to find his bearings; he grasped the table with his other hand and pushed himself up. “Err—sorry about that. Congratulations!”

“What happened to you?” April asked worriedly.

Jackson cringed when he touched his left shoulder; “Ouch” he yelped, forgetting that he’s not on mute.

“Jackson??? Are you alright?”

Jackson cleared his throat before sitting down on his chair; “Yeah, just had a fall there, bad shoulder, but I’m okay” he said.

“Why did you fall? What on earth are you doing?” April asked.

Jackson chuckled; “I was actually dozing off when you called and I guess I was startled” he said.

April chuckled; “I’m sorry! I just had to call you to let you know! I freaking passed!” she said happily.

Jackson smiled; “I asked you to call. Wow, you finally have you what you want, I’m happy for you” he said sincerely.

“I don’t have to work for Tastee Freez!”

Jackson rolled his eyes; “Why would you work there? You’re still a doctor, board passer or not” he said.

April chortled; “My pride can only take so much” she quipped.

Jackson laughed.

April’s laughter died down after a couple of seconds.

“April?”

“I’m still here”

Jackson leaned back on his chair; “Why are you so quiet all of a sudden?” he asked.

April cleared her throat; “Flunking my boards the first time wasn’t your fault, it was all me...”

Jackson sighed; “Come on, it was my fault I—“

“Stop right there” April interrupted. “Whatever happened that night was not premeditated; I know I acted like full crazy on you after but let me be clear about it, I don’t regret it and I’ll never regret it...”

“April---“

“No, I’m not saying this because I already passed this time; I’m saying it now because it’s the truth. It was unfair of me to put all the blame on you when I’m the one who messed up. Come on Jackman, you weren’t the one answering their questions, it was me. So, whatever happened inside the exam room, it was all me and it has nothing to do about you”

Jackson took a deep breath.

April chuckled; “Don’t sound so dejected, be happy with me, it’s a happy time after all.”

Jackson smiled; “Fine. Happy times now, so we’ll be happy” he agreed.

April smiled; “I’m so hyped up I don’t think I can sleep, do you need extra hands there?”

Jackson chuckled; “No we don’t. You should rest and come in bright and early tomorrow” he said.

April pursed her lips; “Are you sure? I mean, I’m not sleepy and all”

“Nope, stay there and rest. Celebrate; you just passed your board’s you don’t need to work.”

“I can bring pizza?”

Jackson groaned; “And you just have to say that!”

April laughed; “I’ll be there in 30 and I’ll bring pizza. Round the big happy dysfunctional family up, whoever is on call” she chirped.

“There’s no stopping you, right?”

“I can throw a cup of Cafe Mocha”

Jackson groaned again; “Fine. But you’re not working, we’ll eat then you go home” he relented.

“Who else is on call?” April asked happily.

“Karev and Yang”

“Okay, I’ll just call the pizza place and have it delivered there, see you in a bit” April said.

“Drive safely, see you” Jackson said.

“Bye!” April chirped before disconnecting the line.

oOo

“Karev!”

Alex turned his head sideways and stared at Jackson; “What?” he asked with a scowl.

Jackson smiled widely; “April passed!” he announced.

Alex’s face softened as a smile slowly edged up his lips; “I told you she will crush it!” he said while patting the other surgeon’s shoulder.

Jackson winced.

Alex furrowed his brows; “What’s wrong? Does your shoulder hurt?” he asked.

Jackson rolled his left shoulder and began rubbing it with his other arm; “Yeah, it’s a little bit sore” he replied.

“You should have Torres check that” Alex said.

Jackson nodded; “I will” he replied. He then lowered his other hand and shoved it inside his pocket; “She’s on her way here, she’s bringing pizza, you still hungry?”

Alex moved his eyes towards the wall clock before raising his brow; “It’s half passed 1 A.M.” he said.

Jackson smiled; “Apparently she’s so happy so she can’t sleep, she wants to celebrate with us” he replied.

Alex smiled; “I can imagine”

“Hey guys!”

Jackson’s head snapped towards the perky voice; “There she is” he said with a large grin.

April skipped towards her friends and gently placed coffee cups on top of the nurses’ station; “Here you go!” she chirped.

“I just heard, congratulations Kepner!” Alex said before pulling the Trauma Surgeon into a very uncharacteristic hug.

April chuckled as she patted the Ped’s Surgeon’s back; “Thank you! I wouldn’t have made it if it weren’t for you guys!” she gushed.

Alex rolled his eyes as he pulls away; “Whatever” he replied.

April chortled; “I bought you guys coffee, where is Yang? Is the pizza here already?” she asked.

Jackson leaned towards the desk and began sorting the coffee; “We haven’t paged her yet and nope, pizza is not here” he replied.

Alex leaned forward and grabbed the phone from the cradle; “I’ll page her” he offered.

“Do you guys know if anyone is on call aside from you three?” April asked.

Jackson shook his head; “Nope, Grey went home with Shepherd and I saw Torres leave with Robbins, so it’s just us three” he replied.

“How about the interns?” April asked.

“We sent them home, they’re pretty much pathetic during night shifts” Alex replied as he put the phone back on the cradle.

“Dr. Kepner, please proceed to the main lobby, Thank you!”

Alex frowned; “Did you just get paged?” he asked confusedly.

April nodded; “Yep, pizza is here! I’ll go ahead and get that, you stay here and wait for Cristina” she said before trotting away.

Jackson nodded as he takes a sip of his coffee.

Alex grabbed a cup from the desk and took a sip; “Only Kepner will have a pizza guy page her” he said.

Jackson chuckled; “Well, you know her” he replied.

Alex snickered; “Kepner and her crazies!”

Jackson rolled his eyes.

After a couple of seconds of companionable silence, the door to the E.R. burst open as Cristina strolled in. She made her way towards the nurses’ station and stood before her friends. “Is it me or the P.A. system just paged Kepner?” she asked.

Alex took a sip of his latte before replying; “It’s Kepner, she’s here. She wants to celebrate with us and she had the pizza guy page her” he supplied.

Cristina smiled widely; “She passed?” she asked.

“She did” Jackson replied.

“Alright Kepner!” Cristina said.

Jackson plucked a cup from the desk and handed it Cristina; “She bought you coffee too” he said.

Cristina’s eyes widen; “Did you guys drag her all the way here to buy you coffee?” she asked aghast.

 Jackson shook his head; “Nope, I told her to stay at home but she insisted that she’s all hyped up and cannot sleep.”

Cristina accepted the cup and smiled; “I love hyped up Kepner” she said.

The E.R. doors slammed opened as April stepped in; she had a huge box of pizza in her hands accompanied by a big smile on her face. “I hope you guys are hungry” she chirped.

oOo

The next day:

“Before we wrap up this meeting let us clap our hands to our new board certified first year Attending, Dr. April Kepner” Owen said proudly as he began to clap. 

The room erupted with thunderous sounds of clapping and whistling.

April felt her cheeks flush as her colleagues greeted her; “Thank you guys” she said shyly.

Derek shifted closer and patted April on the back; “You deserve it Kepner, congratulations!” he said jovially.

Meredith followed his husband’s lead and stood up from her chair; she moved towards the Trauma Surgeon and pulled her into a hug; “You made it! Congrats!” she said.

April laughed as she returned the hug; “Thank you Mer, I wouldn’t have done it without you guys!”

Meredith pulled away and patted April’s hand; “Oh hush, it’s all you”

April grinned widely.

Owen smiled proudly before clearing his throat; “Now settle down guys, this meeting is adjourned!” he said.

The other Attendings’ stood up from their chairs and exited the room one by one; April gathered her stuff from the table and pushed away from the table.

“Kepner, I need to talk to you for a minute” Owen said.

“Oh” April said. She then leaned back on her chair and stared at her mentor expectantly.

Owen sat down on his chair and clasped his hands on top of the table; “How are you feeling?” he asked.

April smiled; “Awesome”

Owen chuckled; “You did good Kepner, I’m so proud of you” he said.

“Thank you Chief”

Owen leaned back on his chair; “Now that you’re already a board certified surgeon, there are things that we need to talk about.”

April nodded; “I’m aware”

“So, have you already thought about Mass Gen?”

April cringed; “Err—I’m still thinking about it...”

Owen crossed his arms on top of his chest; “I don’t want to rush you but I need your answer before the week ends” he said.

April puffed out air before nodding; “And an answer you shall receive” she replied.

Owen smiled; “Since we already got that out the way, you may go” he dismissed.

April pushed away from the table and stood up; she gathered her stuff in her arms before shifting away from the table. “Err---Chief?”

“Yes?”

“Am I allowed the Trauma Room?” April asked.

Owen smiled; “Yes you’re allowed but no lifting and you’re still barred from the O.R.” he reminded her.

April smiled widely; “Thank you Chief!” she chirped before spinning on her heel and exiting the room.

Owen watched his student leave before shaking his head in amusement.

oOo

“Have you heard? Dr. Kepner passed her boards!” Shane said excitedly.

Leah rolled her eyes; “The whole hospital knows Ross, what are you so excited about? She’s still “The Dud”” she replied.

Shane made a face; “She is not “The Dud”, you haven’t been under her service yet so you clearly don’t know what you’re saying” he said.

“Kepner can be bad ass Leah, you should see her in action” Heather said.

Leah slung her stethoscope around her neck; “Whatever” she said before leaving.

“What crawled up her ass and died?” Shane asked.

“She’s under Medusa’s service today, that’s why” Heather replied.

“Oh” Shane replied.

Heather finished lacing her sneakers so she stood up from the bench; she grabbed her lab coat from her locker and shrugged it on. “Who do you have today?”

Shane closed his locker door and turned to face the other intern; “I’m still under Avery” he replied.

Heather wrinkled her nose; “Good luck with that” she said.

Shane chuckled; “He’s in a better mood lately so, my Avery Trauma is not triggered yet. Who do you have?” he asked.

“I’m under Yang” Heather replied.

Shane nodded; “Okay, I’ll see you later!” he said before turning around.

“Bye!” Heather replied.

oOo

April was updating the Electronic Board when she noticed Jackson stepping inside the pit; she placed her tab on top of the desk and waived her hand enthusiastically; “Jackson!”

Jackson paused and turned his head sideways; “Hey” he grunted.

April studied the Plastic Attending’s posture and narrowed her eyes; “What’s wrong?” she asked.

Jackson walked sluggishly towards April and stood right in front of her; “I’m not feeling that good” he admitted.

April gently placed her hand on his forehead; “You’re hot” she observed.

Jackson smiled shrewdly; “Why thank you Dr. Kepner, I appreciate your candour” he replied.

April laughed sarcastically as she pulled her hand away; “Very funny Dr. Avery”

Jackson just shook his head, amusement evident on his face.

 April furrowed her brows in concern; “If you’re not feeling well then why didn’t you call in sick?”

“I wanted to but I can’t afford to miss a day. I have tons of paper work waiting for my signature” he Jackson replied glumly.

“Did you try delegating?”

Jackson sighed; “I can’t, those papers need my signature specifically. I hate my life” he said.

April smiled ruefully; “I feel bad for you Jackman” she said.

Jackson chuckled; “I feel bad for myself” he replied. He then adjusted his laptop bag strap on his shoulder but cringed when it hit a sore spot.

April noticed his reaction so she moved closer; she lifted her hand and experimental pinched his left shoulder.

Jackson yelped; “April! What the hell--!”

April narrowed her eyes as she pulled her hand away; “It’s your shoulder” she said.

Jackson frowned; “Huh?”

April crossed her arms on top of her chest; “You’re running a fever because of your shoulder. You should go to Torres and have that checked” she said.

“I will have it checked”

April raised her brow; “I mean, now.”

Jackson shook his head; “I can’t. I need to drop by Hunt’s office so I can give him the—“

April rolled her eyes before wrapping her hand on his other arm; she then began tugging him towards an empty exam room.

“What are you doing?” Jackson asked confusedly.

April pushed the door open and began pushing him towards the exam bed.

Jackson’s eyes widen in shock; “April, what are you doing? I can’t do this now, I mean we can’t here—“

April gently shoved him into the bed; “Get your head out of the gutter, I’m paging Torres so she can examine you now” she chastised.

“Oh”

April threw him a wry look; “Really Jackson? Here? After everything we’ve been through?” she asked.

Jackson averted his gaze as his cheek’s started to flush.

April saw his reaction and she can’t help but giggle; “Don’t look so abashed, I didn’t tell you what I was doing” she said.

Jackson bit his bottom lip; “I’m sorry...”

“You know what will make me feel better?”

Jackson moved his eyes and met her gaze; “What?”

April smiled; “Stay here like a good boy and wait for Torres” she said.

Jackson eyed her for a couple of seconds before nodding; “Fine, send her in” he relented.

April beamed; “Good boy!” she said. She then spun on her heels and walked towards the door; “Don’t even think about leaving Jackman, I will sic Alex on you and it won’t be pretty” she said before exiting the room.

“Fine.”

April laughed as she closed the door behind her.

oOo

“When did you have the fall again?” Callie asked as she examines Jackson’s shoulder.

“Last night” Jackson replied.

Callie lifted Jackson’s left arm but stopped when the she heard the man grunt in pain; “Did you slip or something?” she asked.

Jackson cleared his throat; “I fell off a chair, I was sleeping, I was startled and when I turned to my side I flipped and met the floor. My left shoulder took the brunt of my weight I guess”

Callie chuckled; “That’s why we have on call rooms Jackson, it’s not just for sex, it’s for sleeping too” she said.

Jackson winced again; “I know, I was stupid” he replied.

Callie put her hand on his shoulder and began prodding it gently; “It’s sore and there is some bruising. The impact of your fall may have triggered your most recent injury, hence, you’re fever. I can set you up with some pain meds but you will have to lay off of surgery for a while.”

Jackson opened his mouth to protest but Callie didn’t let him; “I already told you before Jackson but I’m repeating it now. You shouldn’t have been allowed surgery only a week after your accident; your shoulder was put into so much stress when you started operating again that’s why it didn’t heal correctly. You will do as I say or you’ll end up with a crippled shoulder and you’re not even 90”

Jackson closed his eyes as he took a defeated breath; “How long?” he asked.

Callie pulled her hand away; “Two weeks” she said.

“But I have patients that—“

“No arguing. Two weeks. We have other Attending’s here, use them” Callie snapped.

“But—“

Callie shushed him with her pointer finger; “Nu-uh! I don’t want to hear it!”

Jackson closed his mouth.

Callie moved towards the supply cabinet and began pulling on the drawers.

“What are you doing?”

“I’m looking for an arm sling” Callie replied.

Jackson stood up from his perch; “I don’t need an arm sling! I’m fine!” he argued.

Callie pulled the next drawer and smile; “There you are!” she said enthusiastically. She then turned towards the exam bed and glared at her stubborn patient; “Sit. Down. Now.”

Jackson huffed before following the Orthopaedic Surgeon instructions.

“You will be wearing this sling every damn day. I’m not asking you to wear it just because I want to; you’re wearing it because it will limit your shoulder movement that will help in healing. You already know the drill, you can’t work out, you can’t force your shoulder and you can’t have sex, capiche?”

“It’s not as if I’m having any action lately” Jackson mumbled irritably.

Callie raised her brow; “Edwards is holding off sex?”

Jackson glared at Callie; “It’s not that it’s any of your business but Edwards and I are no longer together.”

Callie’s eyes widen in surprise; “Since when?” she asked.

“A couple of weeks ago” Jackson grunted.

Callie stared at Jackson with remorse; “I’m sorry to hear about that...” she said sincerely.

Jackson sighed; “We had it coming so it’s alright” he replied.

Callie nodded; “Something are just not meant to be”

Jackson nodded; “Yeah”

oOo

Meredith was walking along the hallway when she saw Jackson stepping out of the exam room; she gingerly walked towards the other surgeon and narrowed her eyes when she saw that his arm is in a sling. “What happened to you?”

Jackson closed the door behind him before turning towards Meredith; “Torres ordered me to use this damn thing. I can’t use my arm for two weeks and I’m pissed” he said.

Meredith stared at Jackson with concern; “What happened? Did you have an accident?”

Jackson let out a defeated sigh; “I fell off a chair and I landed on my bad shoulder, now it hurts like a bitch and I have a fever” he grunted.

“You fell off a chair?”

Jackson glared; “I did just say that right?”

Meredith wrinkled her nose; “What were you doing?” she asked.

“I was sleeping and then April called and told me that she passed her boards, I was startled so I fell off the damn chair!”  

Meredith burst out laughing.

Jackson narrowed his eyes; “It’s not funny Grey!” he snapped.

Meredith bit her bottom lip to stifle her giggles; “I’m—I’m sorry”

Jackson pursed his lips; “Whatever!” he said before turning on his heels.

“Jackson—wait!”

Jackson waived his hand dismissively; “I have work to do, find me when you can stop laughing at my plight!” he said bitterly.

Meredith giggled; “I’m sorry!” she hollered.

Jackson ignored her feeble attempts to talk; he rounded the corner and disappeared from view.

Meredith shook her head.

oOo

“I just heard the news, congratulations seems to be in order”

April tore her eyes away from her charts and turned towards her right; she let out a bright smile when she saw her favourite intern. “Hey Ross, thank you!” she beamed.

Shane smiled at his mentor; “So, how does it feel?” he asked.

“It feels really good! It’s as if I won the lottery or something” April gushed.

Shane chuckled.

April smiled contentedly; “I haven’t been this happy in a long time, I miss it” she admitted.

“You deserve it, you’ve worked hard for it” Shane said.

April let out a deep breath before nodding; “You’re right. So, what brought you here? Are you under my service today?” she asked.

Shane made a face; “As much as I want to be under your service today, I can’t. I’m actually under Dr. Avery’s service. Have you seen him by the way? I’ve been looking for him for over an hour now.”

April furrowed her brows; “I left him with Dr. Torres over an hour ago, he’s running a fever because of his bad shoulder. He should be around here somewhere, did you check the board rooms or the Burn Clinic?” she asked.

Shane nodded; “I did, but he’s not there” he replied.

April moved her hand towards her pocket and pulled out her phone; “That’s weird but let me call him to check if he went home or something” she offered.

“That would be great Dr. Kepner, thank you”

April smiled; “If you were any other intern I would’ve let you flounder” she teased.

Shane puffed out his chest and smiled smugly; “But I’m your favourite.”

April rolled her eyes; she then unlocked her keypad and navigated through her phonebook. Once Jackson’s number appeared, she tapped on the “call” button and shifted the phone to her ear. After a couple of rings, she heard her best friend’s irritable voice; “Hey, I was just calling to check where you are—Oh, okay—Nope, Ross is looking for you—I’ll send him there then—okay—bye!” She winced as she pulled the phone away from her ear; “He’s in Chief Hunt’s office and he’s not in a very good mood I’m afraid” she said.

Shane took a deep breath and squared his shoulders; “I can do this, I’ll go there right now.”

April threw the intern a sympathetic look; “He’s not feeling well so don’t take it personally if he snaps at you.”

Shane nodded; “Okay, I’ll see you later Dr. Kepner. Thank you for helping me and congratulations again” he said with a nervous smile.

April nodded; “You’re welcome and thank you too. Go now” she said.

Shane spun on his heels and made a bee line towards the E.R. doors.

oOo

Owen wearily stared at Jackson as he paces inside his office; “My hands are tied Avery, I can’t do anything about it.”

Jackson paused and turned his head towards Owen; “You’re the Chief of Surgery, of course you can do something about this!”

“Look, I’m not doing this to be difficult but Torres is right, I shouldn’t have cleared you for surgery on your first week back.”

“But I’m fine! It only hurts now because I had that stupid fall!” Jackson huffed.

Owen crossed his arms on top of his chest; “That’s the reason why we’re barring you from surgery, because your shoulder hurts.”

“But for two weeks? I don’t think that’s right! I have patients lining up for me and I can’t just tell them that I can’t do the surgery I promised because my stupid shoulder hurts!”

“Your patients will understand”

Jackson stared at Owen for a couple of seconds, but when he didn’t see any type of compromise from the older surgeon’s face, he let out a defeated sigh. “If I can’t do surgery then what am I suppose to do here? Are you banning me from the hospital as well?”

Owen shook his head; “Of course not. You can still do consults and admin works” he replied.

“Great. More stupid paper works for me.” Jackson said with sarcasm.

Owen sighed exasperatedly; “I know the situation sucks right now but we cannot do anything but to deal. If you don’t want to do the paper works I can talk to your Mother and ask her to step in, in behalf of the Foundation for the mean time.”

Jackson closed his eyes and sighed; “As much as I don’t want to have my Mother in the same state as I am, I think that’s a good idea. I don’t think I can deal with the paper works right now.”

Owen let out a small smile; “Done.”

Jackson opened his eyes; “I know I’m hard to deal with but thank you for understanding” he said.

Owen nodded; “You are welcome, is there anything else?” he asked.

“The exchange program...do you have final roster?”

“No, there are still some Attendings’ who hasn’t responded yet” Owen replied.

Jackson swallowed hard; “Did--did April give her answer yet?” he asked.

Owen raised his brow; “No she hasn’t, did she mention something to you?”

Jackson shook his head before sighing; “We don’t talk about it.”

“I see.”

Jackson slipped his hand inside his lab coat pocket and cleared his throat; “Well I better go. I still need to fix my schedule” he said.

Owen nodded; “Alright, I’ll inform you once I hear from your Mother” he said.

Jackson nodded; he then turned on his heel and walked towards the door.

oOo

“I think we’re losing the wager, AGAIN” Meredith said as she sits across Cristina.

Cristina grabbed her coffee and took a sip; “I already lost, it’s between you and Alex now” she replied dryly.

Meredith wrinkled her nose in distaste; “I don’t think someone will win this stupid bet” she said.

Cristina chuckled; “Today’s your last day right?” she asked.

Meredith pursed her lips; “Yep and he’s not making any moves, he’s like a dead fish floating inside a filthy aquarium. I think we should change his name from McPretty to McDeadOhPoorFish.”

“You’re awful Mer,” Cristina replied.

Meredith leaned back on her chair and crossed her arms on top of her chest; “But it’s true! Everybody who has eyes can see that he’s into her, why can’t he just man up and tell her! Watching him make googly eyes at April is sickening.”

“Maybe he’s really a Eunuch, he castrated himself after deflowering Kepner” Cristina suggested.

Meredith raised her brow; “And you call me awful?”

“Pay up, you guys owe me 200 bucks!” Alex said happily as he sat down beside Cristina.

Cristina huffed; “You haven’t won yet evil spawn, I don’t see McDeadOhPoorFish exploding yet and the Mass Gen ship hasn’t sailed yet.”

Alex made a face; “Who the hell is McDeadOhPoorFish? It’s freaking mouthful!” he asked confusedly.

“It’s Jackson’s new name. We don’t call him McPretty anymore because he’s acting like a dead fish now” Meredith explained.

“You guys are awful!”

Cristina cackled; “It’s true! Don’t tell me it’s not frustrating you?” she challenged.

Alex leaned back on his chair and placed his hands at the back of his head; “It’s annoying to see them both floundering” he acquiesced.

“Ha!” Meredith huffed.

Cristina leaned forward and braised her elbows on top of the table; “Do you guys want to know what I found out?” she whispered.

Meredith leaned forward; “What?” she asked quietly.

Cristina turned her head sideways; “Evil spawn, come closer” she instructed.

Alex rolled his eyes before obliging; “What?” he asked.

Cristina smirked; “Owen told me that McDeadOhPoorFish is currently banned from surgery for two weeks and Momma Avery will be stepping in his shoes for the mean time.”

Alex smiled cheekily; “Kiss your 100 bucks goodbye ladies” he said.

Meredith frowned; “I didn’t thought that he’s injuries are that severe, I mean, he just fell off a chair.”

“It’s not that severe but Torres told Owen that if McDeadOhPoorFish won’t rest his shoulder, it might cause permanent damage.”

“It makes sense, I mean, that dude was back to performing long tedious surgeries a week after his accident” Alex said.

Cristina nodded in agreement; “And the fall didn’t help either” she said.

Meredith puffed out air; “Now I feel worse, I made fun of him a couple of minutes ago” she said.

Alex chuckled; “What did you do?” he asked.

“I laughed at him when he told me that he fell off a chair and he’s wearing an arm sling” Meredith replied.

Cristina whistled; “Dark and twisty Mer, dark and twisty” she said.

Meredith groaned.

oOo

Jackson was clearing up his surgical schedule on his tab when he heard a knock on the door; “Come in” he said.

The door slowly opened as his intern peeked in; “Dr. Avery?” Shane said nervously.

“Are you finished with your rounds?” Jackson asked as he moved his eyes towards Shane.

Shane pushed the door wider and stepped inside the conference room; “Yes sir, all charts had been updated as well” he replied earnestly.

Jackson nodded in approval; “Good, thank you. You can go now, you’re off my service” he said.

Shane’s eyes widen in shock; “Did—did I do something wrong Dr. Avery?” he panicked.

Jackson rolled his eyes; “No. I just don’t need an intern now and for the next 2 weeks because all my surgeries are cancelled, so scoot, find another Attending to bother” he said.

“Oh okay” Shane gasped. He then nodded and hastily stepped out of the room, quietly closing the door behind him.

Jackson turned his eyes back towards his tab and began tapping on the screen again; he was about to hit save when his phone vibrated on top of the desk. He leaned forward and grabbed his phone; he groaned out loudly when he saw his mother’s name blinking on the screen. “Mom” he said dryly.

 “Jackson baby, are you alright? I just received a call from Dr. Hunt and he told me that you’re banned from surgeries and I have to fly there to take over for you. What happened?” Catherine asked worriedly.

Jackson rolled his eyes; “I’m fine Mom” he replied.

“Tell me what happened? Have you been into another accident again?”

“I just fell off a chair and landed on my bad shoulder, I’m good” Jackson replied.

“You hurt your left shoulder again? What in world were you doing?” Catherine asked aghast.

Jackson leaned back on his chair; “I was sleeping on a chair when April called me on my phone to tell me that she passed her boards, I was startled so I fell off.”

“That’s wonderful!” Catherine exclaimed happily. 

Jackson frowned; “You’re son just got banned from surgery for two weeks Mom, It’s not wonderful” he snapped irritably.

“I’m not talking about you dear, don’t get all crabby on me.”

“Oh, sorry” Jackson said abashedly.

“You should be proud of April, she’s come a long way” Catherine said.

Jackson let out a small smile; “Yeah, she has.”

“Well, I just called to check if you’re doing alright” Catherine explained. She then paused before speaking again; “Dr. Hunt told me that you wanted me to go there to take over for two weeks, is that true?” she asked warily.

“It’s true, I don’t think I can deal with paper works right now, I simply don’t have the patience.”

“Oh baby...”

Jackson let out a defeated sigh; “I’m just a little bit worn out lately so your help will be greatly appreciated” he admitted.

“Fine, I’ll fly out first thing tomorrow” Catherine replied.

Jackson smiled; “Thanks Mom”

“I think you should go home and rest, Dr. Hunt also mentioned that you’re running a fever. You can’t do consults when your brain is muddled sweetheart, so just be a good boy and go home” Catherine said.

“I think I’ll do that, I’m a little light headed” Jackson acquiesced.

“Don’t drive, just take a cab. Okay?”

Jackson rolled his eyes; “Yes mother” he replied.

“Alright baby, I’ll see you soon! Give April my congratulations, okay?”

“Will do. Call me once your plane has landed, have a safe flight and thank you for doing this in such a short notice” Jackson said sincerely.

“Oh hush, it’s nothing. Bye baby, I love you!” Catherine said.

“Bye Mom, love you too” Jackson replied. He then pulled the phone away from his ear and disconnected the call. He then stood up and slipped his phone inside his jean’s back pocket; he plucked the tab from the table and walked towards the door. “I might as well go home now” he mumbled to himself.

oOo

“What do we have here Kepner?” Owen asked as he enters the room.

“We have a hit and run case here Chief; patient has massive abdominal and head injuries, pupils are dilated but not responsive. I already paged Dr. Shepherd and Dr. Bailey and they’re on their way I hope” April replied as she navigates the transducer around the patient’s abdomen. “His bleeding internally Chief, we have to move him to the O.R” she added.

Owen walked towards the phone and pulled it off from its cradle; “Book O.R. 1 now and page Shepherd, Bailey and Yang” he said. He then placed the phone back and walked towards the bed; “You’re off this case Kepner, I have it” he said.

“But Chief---“

“No, we already talked about this. You’re not cleared yet so just do what I say, I got this” Owen said sternly.

April pursed her lips as she takes her gloves off; “Fine” she huffed before walking towards the door. She pushed it open and stepped out of the room; she made her way towards the nurses’ station and grabbed her tab. She unlocked it with a swipe of her finger and began updating the information; “First day of being a board certified surgeon and this is what I do, I should just work for Tastee Freez at least I’ll get my hands dirty!” she mumbled irritably.

“Hey if you work there, give me a free sundae, okay?”

April rolled her eyes; “You’re a surgeon Alex, I’m sure you can afford a measly sundae” she quipped.

Alex shrugged his shoulders; “Why would I pay for it when you can throw it for free” he replied.

“I’ll definitely throw one at you”

Alex laughed; “Feisty.”

April placed her tab on the desk and sighed; “Seriously, this is insane. It’s been two weeks already and nothing” she complained.

Alex moved towards the vacant chair right in front of the desk and sat down; he reclined on his back and raised his feet on top of the desk. “Don’t rush it, you don’t want to end up like Avery.”

April furrowed her brows; “Whatever happened to him by the way? I left him with Torres an hour ago.”

“He’s banned from surgery for two weeks and his Momma will be flying over to take over his position as board member” Alex said. He then paused and crossed his arms on top of his chest; “And oh, Torres gave him an arm sling” he added thoughtfully.

“I didn’t know it’s that bad” April replied.

Alex snickered; “It’s not supposed to be that bad but he pushed his luck and now he’s suffering the consequences of his hard headedness.”

April pursed her lips; “I don’t even want to see him right now, I’m pretty sure he’s ticked off.”

Alex peered behind April’s back before pulling his feet away from the desk; he hastily stood up from his perch and smirked at the oblivious red head. “You don’t have a choice because McTickedOff is walking towards us and he doesn’t look happy. I’ll see you later Kepner, bye!” he said before scampering away.

April’s eyes widen as she watches her friend leave; “Alex you coward come back here!” she yelled in panic.

“What’s going on here?” Jackson asked with furrowed brows.

April slowly turned around and smiled warily; “H-hey”. She then moved her eyes towards the arm sling; “Are you okay?” she asked with worry.

Jackson stopped right in front of April and nodded curtly; “Yeah, I’m going home.”

“Okay, but will you be able to drive?” April asked with concern.

“Nope, I called for a cab and it’s already outside waiting. I just dropped by to say goodbye and if you see Hunt, please tell him that I already went home.”

April nodded; “Okay, I will tell him. Take care” she said.

Jackson nodded; “Will do. See you tomorrow.”

April smiled; “Bye” she said.

Jackson turned on his heels and began walking towards the exit.

April titled her head sideways and watched the other surgeon leave; “Wow, no bitch fit, this is new” she said amusedly.