Chapter Text
Both Michael and Peter were moving around with a purpose, getting medical care for those who needed it. Peter has Jo x-rayed and waits on her results, then tells her she has no breaks or fractures so she’s cleared for check out. He instructs her on for home care and asks Michael to wheel her out. Jo returns Peter’s jacket back to him that he had thrown over her and thanks him for the small gesture. Peter then leaves to go do something else.
As Michael wheels Jo out to where the others have been waiting; he clears his throat before he begins to speak, “Uh, since the building looks to be unlivable for a bit, why don’t you stay at the beach house?”
Jo turns her head to look at him and Michael quickly gives an explanation that she would accept.
“It’s not safe to go back there, right now. Unstable infrastructure or something. Look, I know I’m the last person you would want to be around, but at least I can offer a safe place until you can go back home.”
Jo opens her mouth to form an answer, but Michael quickly interrupts again, “I would like to apologize. Well, for uh, the whole mess over your baby and how that blew up.” Michael winces at what he just said, while Jo continues to patiently listen to him as they move down the hospital corridor.
“Sorry, wrong choice of words. I mean, I didn’t realize just how crazy Kimberly was and I got sucked into it. Kimberly won’t hurt any of us since she’s in the psych ward now. So how about it? Just for the night?” Michael gives his best charming smile.
Jo carefully shrugs. “I can handle one night under the same roof, Michael. And thanks for the apology; I know it’s not easy for you to say it,” she replies and returns a smile.
Michael is enlightened with another idea. “Hey, about I ask Amanda and some of the others to come too? That way it will be less awkward.” Jo nods in agreement as they both continue down to where Amanda, Sydney and others are waiting. Michael notices the disappointed look on Peter’s face after he had said something to Amanda.
“What was that about?” asks Michael.
“Amanda just turned down free room and board,” Sydney explains, surprised at Amanda’s negative response towards Peter.
Amanda rolls her eyes. “Please, Sydney. Nothing in this world is free. When are you going to learn that?”
Michael quickly glances down at Jo. “Well, I’ve invited Jo to spend the night at the beach house and you’re both welcome to join us.” Jo nods along.
Amanda looks at him then abruptly turns away. “Forget it!” She says.
“Amanda, come on…” Jo cajoles her.
Sydney looks back at Amanda, drops her magazine and stands up and answers, “We’ve got him outnumbered.” She starts to walk out with Michael and Jo.
Amanda sighs and gets up to catch up with them. “Just one thing: keep your hands to yourself!
Michael acts offended. “Oh believe me. That’s the last thing on my mind-especially with any of you!”
Together they all walk toward the parking lot, not talking a whole lot.