Chapter 14

Kevin flew out of his chair when the doctor walked into the small waiting room. AJ was next to him within seconds.

"Are they okay!?" Kevin asked, his tone reaching panicked.

"I'm Dr. Baker." He said, ignoring Kevin's question. "And I'm sorry to tell you I only have information on Mr. Dorough."

The news didn't seem to phase the boys. They nodded, eager for any good news on their friends.

"Alright." he continued. "Mr. Dorough will be fine. The bullet hit his shoulder leaving all vital organ untouched. He's awake and requesting reassurance on Mr. Littrell's condition. The only problem is Mr. Littrell is still in OR. I have no idea of his condition. Do you want me to tell Mr. Dorough or would you like to?"

AJ stepped up to the doctor and looked him right in the eye.

"We'll tell him." He whispered. "Please take us to him."

The doctor nodded slowly. Turning, he motioned for the boys to follow him. AJ took a deep breath before following after him.

*~*~*~

Howie smiled when he saw AJ, Kevin, and Nick file into his hospital room. It was the best feeling in the world, to be able to see them again. His eyes fell on AJ and he remembered the last time he had seen him. He shudder, which sent pain coursing through his shoulder.

"AJ." He rasped. "You're okay? I can't forget how you looked last time I saw you."

It was AJ's turn to shiver. He gave Howie an apologetic smile.

I'm fine." He reassured him. "I'm just on meds for the rest of my life."

Howie frowned. He looked at Kevin who nodded. AJ offered Howie a sincere smile. It faded when he saw the sadness in Howie's eyes.

"How's Brian?" He asked.

Kevin walked up to his bedside. He sat on it's edge and patted Howie's leg.

"We don't know yet." He told him. "He's still in OR. But don't worry, he'll be fine."

Memories came flooding back to Howie. He cringed as Randy's angry voice echoed in his head.

'Goodbye Backstreet'

Howie's thoughts were shattered by a soft knock on the door. A doctor entered and glanced at the boys. His face was set in a grim lines. He sighed deeply before speaking.

"I have news on Mr. Littrell."