It wasn’t everyday a note happened across Saoirse’s desk reading ‘Urgent- Eliza Taylor here’, her secretary just casually set it down but it arose such panic in the 29 year old she dropped her pin to the desk. Fearing the worst she looked up towards her exiting secretary. “Let her in.” calling out, politely directing her with urgency. It must be something of grave importance for the fellow actress to travel all the way here. Saoirse’s production company offices were a very far cry from Los Angeles, situated on the banks of Nashville’s well known river, in a redone old industrial building. Pictures of her twins boys whow ere now two and three quarters and Roman decorated the whole modern chic room.
Her heart leaping the second the blonde forced open her office door, the sound bringing her to action. “Is everything alright?” Deep concern in her eyes as Saoirse’s mouth sadly dropped already. She came around her desk, cutting a direct path to meet Eliza more informally, once the distance between them was seized, hands reaching to the other woman’s forearms attempting to be of early comfort.
Natalia stared at the cigarette box in her hand. She was in shock. Not that it was new for her to see one of those. Far from it. She and Charlie were smoking after all. But she had found this certain box in the pocket of her stepson’s jacket. She was doing the laundry and wanted to wash it and scanned all the pockets. Like she always did. She certainly didn’t expect THAT. Archie was thirteen. How did the boy end up smoking? Nat was suddenly nervous, not sure how to react now. She knew little Archie for so long now and the boy was such a sweet kid. And she loved him from the bottom of her heart. But lately he had changed a little. Probably because puberty did its best to confuse the hell out of the poor boy. She sighed, because she knew, that they should talk about it. But before she’d barge right into Archie’s room, she’d talk to Charlie.
She searched for her husband, nearly falling over him and their little girl Anastasia in the living room. They’ve built a fort with blankets and pillows and were hiding, probably reading a book together. Even though she was still worried about Archie, she chuckled when she saw the whole chaos. Their daughter loved to hide from everything and everyone. The little girl sure had inherited a lot of her parents’ character traits.
Natalia still struggled with being famous, even though she had been part of the industry for quite a while now. Stranger Things had been a total hit and she practically was famous overnight. After Stranger Things had ended, she always took her time with deciding on her new projects. She wanted to challenge herself with new roles, wanted to learn new things and most importantly, she always tried to be part of projects that were very dear to her heart. Those weren’t always the big roles in cinema hits, but she was happy with her live now.
“I think Mommy found our fort” she heard her daughter whisper. Nat laughed. “Yes, darling, I’ve found you and Mommy needs Daddy real quick to tell him something. Could you tell him, that, sweety?” The girl was silent for a second, thinking about her mother's proposal. “Daddy, I think you should go talk to Mommy. She said she needs you.” Nat heard her whisper again. “Can I have some chocolate later?” Anastasia asked louder now. “Yes, sweetheart.” Nat answered a smile playing on her lips. She looked at Charlie who left the fort shortly after that. She pointed to the door with a nod of her head, to show him that she wanted to talk in the kitchen, away from their daughter’s ears. When they reached the kitchen, she gave him a quick kiss. “Sorry to interrupt your play date.” she said chuckling softly. With a sigh she handed him the cigarette box. Nat grimaced. “I just found these in Archie’s pockets, babe. I think we should talk to him, but I didn’t want to do it alone.” @so-charlie
Saoirse Ronan, it wasn’t just some cute name of a actress giggled at in Oscar nominations anymore. It was a star on the Hollywood walk of fame; it was a name now associated with a powerhouse and formidable boss-lady. These were things she previously showed glimpses of herself in wanting, hints of the greater portrait her future could be, now everyone saw the whole damn picture, leaving them to both adore and fear her ambition only once realized now actualized.
Everyone expected marriage would slow her down, that her goals and dreams would often be set aside to just be the wife of a professional hockey player. Maybe even some people were selfishly hoping for it. They didn’t count on the fact that kind of normalcy, of simplicity; though painstakingly beautiful at times, would bore her to tears if it was all she had. It was undeniable that there was always that fire within her, sometimes it dimmed to embers and sometimes it burned brighter than the brightest star. She needed things complex, to keep striving for something greater, she needed the kind of challenge both her family life /and/ her career could bring her, what they both called of her. Saoirse had no doubt become one of the most devoted of wives, just like she had been in being a fiancé and girlfriend, but marriage only served to intensify her professional desires. This was especially the case once Roman’s team won the Stanley cup. She was for certain there was no reason they couldn’t have everything and there was nothing holding her back from unapologetically grabbing it now.
In the next few short years since they wed, she would finally receive an Oscar; ok maybe two, on the performances everyone least expected her too; and she would finally take that move behind the camera with her company to reach her directorial debut. With small children she had to now cut out time in the summer to shoot films, opting to bring them and Roman with her here, to the beauty of Ireland. There was just something so beautiful in watching her two small twin boys play in the picturesque fields of her homeland while they were shooting. When a break happened upon them, it was something that could almost draw a tear from her. Though there was a single tear on her cheek she was, undeniably glowing from how happy she was now.
Never one to forget the ones who were there from the beginning and stayed loyal, unashamedly she had cast Gigi in this movie, rather seen to it she was chosen by the casting director. Gigi deserved this bigger break; she had fought long and hard for as many years as Saoirse had and yet the public’s eyes didn’t fall on her like they should. Saoirse, with all her ability was going to make that change with her sheer willpower. And Gigi’s talent. The story she’d be help telling was right up Saoirse’s alley, specially since Greta helped write it; it was an eloquently beautiful story of a struggling large Irish family told with undeniable humor and love. Dressed in a loose sparkling thread tshirt and the wornest of jeans Saoirse stood there behind the camera, perhaps the spot she was always meant to stand in with playback headphones around her neck, hanging onto ever word the actors were now spouting, their fifth refilming of this scene. “Cut” she got to call out and with her words movement as it had been ceased, the perfect moment played out before her had been captured onto film. There was a great power in being the person who decided when that would happen, how the scene would play out, a power she responsibly wielded. Saoirse cracking through the once stern expression she had watching, a full smile taken onto her lips in pure joy in what she was doing. In the next flash of a eye, watching as Gigi unwinded and got out of character from their last scene of the day. “Hey, how are you?” she called out to check mentally where her friend was; even if the film was lighthearted she knew the demands that could still mentally be placed on a actor were at times somewhat heavy and challenging, and she cared about Gigi so deeply she would go out of her way at a time like this to ask.
Who: Niam
When: Future AU
Description: Niall having difficulties with their son
TW: abuse, disorder.
Niall: Niall knew that Nathan was going to be a hassle ever since they noticed his ADHD, when he was diagnosed he was hoping they could manage to have it under control, but it was hard and Niall was afraid he was doing something wrong. Lately he has been dealing with Nathan differently than usual, mostly because the kid somehow been extra rebellious with him, not listening at all. As usual they took turns putting the kids to bed. Amy was old enough to go on her own so Liam took Jenny tonight and Niall Nathan. "You need to go to bed, final order Nathan, you know you will get grumpy if you don´t get your sleep" he said with a irritated voice after already an hour running after him "everyone is asleep but you, me and daddy and you need to go to bed NOW" he said loud and clear to him "otherwise I would have to close the door and I know you don´t like that, but you have to listen" just as he was about to get up he felt Nathans punch him , something he done before, but Niall thought it was a one time thing since it wasn´t anything he done to Liam. "you do not hit me again do you hear me?" he said angry , but he was emotional, he could handle the words, but this. "i´ve had enough, go to bed, i don´t want to hear a word from you" he said as he got up and trned the light of for the millionth time closing the door behind him so it was just open a bit. He sighed looking down not realizing Liam stood there
Liam: Liam spent most time with the family now, he took time off work and needed to be there for them as much as he could, he worked with Niall to get through handling Nathan, it seemed to be getting harder everyday just trying different ways to see which worked, it was exhausting so early nights in bed happened a lot. Liam took Jenny up to bed whilst Niall took Nathan. He laid with Jenny for a little reading her a story until she fell asleep onto him, he snuck out quietly knowing she didnt wake easy once she was sleeping, putting on her night light he checked before he walked out. He heard shouting knowing Niall was having a hard time again with Nathan, it wasn't as bad with him but when it came to Niall it seemed to be worse. Liam stood near the door trying to listen and see what going on. He saw Niall coming out the room, knowing he was upset "Whats happened...." he spoke softly
Niall: Nathan was still screaming in the backround, Niall keeping his head down looking up slightly as Liam talked " he hit me again..."
Liam: "what? where did he hit you?" he worried about Niall so much, and was mad at their little boy for acting out that way, it is something he shouldnt be doing "has he hurt you?" he bit his lip looking to the room a moment
Niall: "he just punched at me, it´s fine" he shook his head obviously not fine " i don´t know why he hates me so much"
Liam: "Ni its not fine, doesnt matter if he punched at you or done anything, he shouldn't be" it was obvious that liam was mad the way he was acting out and what eh had done. "he wont hate you, why dont you go lay yourself in bed, and ill talk to him"
Niall: Niall nodded just walking into the bedroom placing himself down on the bed on his side looking at the wall
Liam: Liam made sure Niall was okay before he walked into Nathans room "Do you think its clever hitting your dad? you do not do that to anyone, why do you do that to him?" he spoke in a harsh tone "Now get laid down, be quiet and get to sleep, if you dont you are not going anywhere, you will be staying in this house, and i dont care if you kick and scream, thats final" he spoke angry to him wanting him to listen to him. "we do everything for you and this is what you do to us, especially your dad? he looks after you and is always there, you need to learn" he frowned still mad as he was tucking him in.
Niall: Niall tried to keep his thoughts intact not wanting to end up crying. He blamed himself for not knowing how to properly deal with him when he had his meltdowns and he knew Nathan probably understood that he didn´t and maybe that was why he gave him a hard time.
Liam: Liam spent a bit of time in his room, shouting and trying to calm him, and eventually he managed, making sure nathan was settled and went to sleep. He left the door open slightly as he always liked and made way to the bedroom looking stressed out. He started getting undressed for bed looking to Niall before walking over and kneeling in front of him. "babe..." he restd his hand onto his thigh, rubbing softly to comfrt him a little
Niall: he looked down to liam swallowing " i´m fine.. "
Liam: "I've been with you long enough to know when you are not fine, and i know you aren't Ni..." he hung his head down onto his knee
Niall: "i´ll be fine then" he swallowed laying down on his back " I don´t know what to do Liam, I can´t handle him"
Liam: Liam got up climbing into bed beside him "we need to figure out something... maybe we will have to take him to a professional or have someone come out to help him.... and to help us..."
Niall: he nodded" we have to, not only for him, but for us, I feel like everything i do is wrong, he keeps hitting me, i´m being beaten by my own child"
Liam: "your not doing anything wrong, its just hes acting out because you raise your voice more and he knows how to get to you, i told him off for it, and said stuff to him when he finally calmed, but we do need someone, he might learn from someone he isnt close too"
Niall: he nodded moving cuddling up to him " i´m so happy Amy is old enough to understand that he need more attention, i´m just hoping we give her and Jenny enough attention as well"
Liam: Liam wrapped his arms around him kissing him softly on his head "I dont think we have a problem with amy on that, i know she gets tired of the way he is acting too because she just goes to her room but she knows how hard it is. Jenny shes been getting clingy a lot more, she keeps following around nd wanting to play, we need a family day out, if nathan can behave"
Niall: "maybe we need someone to take him for a day in the week so we can focus on jenny and amy, think it might be good for him too"
Liam: "We could ask my mum or yours, he might like to see them for the day, he hasnt for a while"
Niall: he nodded " imean like one day each week"
Liam: "The y might do that.... they might like to see him more if we explain too..."
Niall: he leaned and kissed him "i don´t think i would go throughtthis without you, im so glad i can come to you for a cuddle whenever things are hard, " he giggled "i´m 33 and still loves cuddling"
Liam: He kissed him softly smiling as he looked to him, cuddling him close to his side. "you can always come to me, i love giving you cuddles, it just is the most relaxing thing, and im always here for you through anything" he laughed softly "Your always a big softie"
Niall: he smiled kissing his neck " i love you so much"
Liam: He tipped his neck a little leaning to him "I love you more than anything"
Niall: he ran his hand up his chest "its weird how our love has stuck for so long, I was thinking the other day about you know when we were having a kid and the mother decided rto keep it and the whole amy almost drowning, we managed to get trough that , we still love each othwr
Liam: Liam looked to him just relaxing as he was stroking up his chest, listening to everything he was saying. "because no matter what happens, love is stronger than anything else, and pushes us through all the bad things what happen because we know we got each other, im never going to stop loving you" he kissed him softly
Niall: he kept kissing his deepeing the kis
Liam: He kept his lips to his kissing him deep and filling it full of feeling how he felt for him, turning himself to move closer to him as they kissed
Niall: he kept kissing him wrapping his leg over his pressing himself towards him
Liam: Liam tangled his leg to his pressing as much as he could to him, not leaving any space between them, lettin ghis tongue slip into the kiss
Title: Too Much Action, Too Much Fear
Character(s): Danielle Panabaker and Grant Gustin @theflashgrant
Setting: Los Angeles, October 2026 - April 2027
Universe: sssfuture, v; you’re enough
Content Rating: PG - 13
Triggers: Mentions of hospitalization and injuries
Summary: Grant gets the role of a lifetime, starring in his first blockbuster action movie. However, things go bad during a stunt and circumstances happen that makes both Danielle and Grant nervous.
Grant was filming an action movie in Los Angeles and it was a dream come true. He hadn't gotten to do much stunt work since The Flash and getting to film in LA always made Grant happy because that meant he could still go home to his family every night and help out Danielle with the kids. Things were going great so far, starting his second day and getting to get right into some stunt work. He practically begged to let the producers allow him to do the stunts on his own, having the faith and confidence that he would be able to handle it. He had gone through the scene twice before preparing to really give it his all for the final cut. Unfortunately for Grant, things took a turn for the worse and he lost his footing, causing him to fall off the roof that was about ten feet high. Hitting a car before hitting the ground made Grant lose consciousness immediately and everything went black.
Danielle had a deal with her husband. If one of them were to book a project, the other would stay home and watch the children. Usually, they'd switch on and off, but since Harry was only a few months old, Danielle wanted to stay home further and watch the kids. This time, Grant would be filming in the Los Angeles area, which was something that the brunette was thankful for. It was always nice to have her family home with her and the kids loved it even more when Grant would be able to be at home with them. The movie was something she couldn't quite catch on--an action movie no doubt--and she was happy that Grant was happy to go to work every morning. Right now, she was getting her children ready for school, making breakfast and diving right at the home phone when it started ringing. "Hello", she let out and wondered just who would call her so early in the morning; but that wonder quickly settled into worry. It was one of the producers calling to let her know that Grant had gotten hurt while doing a stunt and it was serious--so serious that production had to halt and send him to the hospital. "Where is he", she started to speak and both of her children's heads perked up at the worry to her tone. Hearing the hospital name, she replied with saying that she'd be right there. "We're not going to school today", Danielle started out, trying to be as calm as ever. "Mom", Alison said slowly, and she knew that she wasn't calm at all. "Just get your brothers and get in the car, Alison. We're not going to school today." Several minutes later and calming breaths, Danielle had managed to get the rest of her family to the hospital in one piece, holding Harry in her arms while Alison held onto Matty's hand. "Hi, I'm looking for a patient. His name is Thomas Gustin." Hearing the room number, she said her thanks and sprinted for it, her children following her. "Mom, what's wrong with Dad", Alison let out, putting the pieces together and Matty whined. "Daddy's in here?!" She didn't know how to answer her children at this point, but hoped that everything was going to be okay.
Grant was still unconscious when arriving at the hospital. He was immediately brought to a room in the extensive care unit and he was bleeding from his head, cuts and bruises all over his body. When Danielle asked for where Grant was, the lady at the front desk spoke. "He's in the extensive care unit on the third floor, you can get more information there," she said. Everything on the extensive care unit floor was incredible hectic and nerve wracking, knowing that if you were on that floor it was a possible life or death situation. Since Grant hadn't been awake since hitting the ground, his injuries were incredibly serious and the doctors were doing what they could to try and figure out what was wrong and where to go from there. One of the nurses came out to Danielle and the kids who were in the waiting room, ready to give them some information. "I hate to tell you this, but it's not good. Grant is unconscious and hasn't woken up at all since we got him here. He has several injuries but we're worried about his head and legs the most. He's going to need surgery and it's going to take a few hours so you might want to take a seat and get comfortable, call who you need to."
Danielle reached the end of the line at this point, hearing the nurses give her Grant's updates. None of this was looking good and all of the words had managed to scare her children more so than anything. Matty was clinging onto her legs for dear life and Alison was just hiding behind her as she spoke. How was it possible that in a matter of hours, her life could be changed forever? She had only just spoke to Grant early that morning, saying her wishes for a good morning and wished him luck when he went to set. Now, he was holding on for life. Danielle nodded and was offered a pen, signing the consent forms to treat and do surgery, and sat down. "Mommy, I'm scared", Matty spoke out now and Danielle wrapped her free arm around her son. The brunette was in a daze, wanting to be strong for her children, but also wanting to just break down. Alison was already leaning face into her arm and silently crying, feeling the shirt that she was wearing dampen in that area. How she wished things would be different. How she wished she was stronger for her children. How she wished she'd be able to call someone--anyone--in order to help her with everything. After a few minutes, she calmed herself down and just went down the list. She started with Grant's parents and then hers, his siblings and then hers. She had to keep this quiet and underwraps; but at least her sister had come to the hospital so far to stay with her and help with the children.
Grant had been in surgery for about three hours, needing stitches in three different spots of his body. There was a big, deep cut on the side of his forehead, a gash on his leg and one on his torso. It was crucial that he didn't lose a lot of blood but unfortunately with all the cuts, he did so anyway. He hadn't woken up at all during the surgery which was good and also bad, still not conscious after the impact of hitting the ground. Once the surgery was finished, the main doctor made his way out to talk to the waiting room now full of family members as well as Danielle and the kids. "Grant needed stitches in three different areas and he lost a lot of blood. Unfortunately he still hasn't woken up or regained consciousness and he's currently in a coma," the doctor said quietly. "A few of you can go in there a little bit at a time. He could most likely hear you and we're hoping that within time, he'll wake up. We don't know how long it'll be but just keep your fingers crossed."
Danielle listened to the doctor that had come out and spoke to her, hands wringing at this point. The kids were distracted with their cousins, so glad that they were all able to come to her aid. She had been holding herself together with the thought of actually getting to see her husband after he came out of surgery, but it was just awful now that he was in a coma. There was a slight chance now that everything would be going downhill and she didn't know how to handle it. Never would she thought that she'd be in this position. Never would she thought that this was even at all a possibility. "Danielle", a voice managed to bring her out of her thoughts. It was Tom, holding onto a baby Harry and bounding him in his arms, and she turned towards her father in law in order to hear him speak. "You go first. We can watch the kids." Danielle nodded, showing a small smile of thanks, and followed the doctor into the room at this point. She was instructed to clean her hands and take the necessary precautions while entering intensive care; but that didn't prepare her to see what was in front of her. The heart monitor was beeping rhythmically and Grant was hooked up to so many things. Bandages were everywhere upon his frame, and scratches and cuts were stitched together. "Baby", she finally breathed out and took his hand gently. The breath was shaky, uneven, and now silent tears were falling. The man that she loved had been hurt and she was so afraid of losing him. "Tommy, you promised you'd come home to me", she continued on to speak, though now her voice had been cracking due to her crying. "You got to make good on your promise and come home to me. Everyone's here and they need you. The kids need you. I need you. You can't leave." There was a pause now in her words, wanting to calm down but there was no calming down at the sight in front of her. "I love you so much", Danielle continued. "And isn't that enough? That love can heal and--I don't know. I know I can't do any of this without you. I know I can't." Maybe squeezing his hand wasn't the best idea, but it was the only thing that Danielle could do right now to feel connected to her husband. After a few minutes, the adults took turns coming in and out of the room; but Danielle stayed. She stayed rooted in her spot, not talking, not eating, and just held onto Grant's hand. Sometimes she'd cry, sometimes she'd just stare, but she didn't dare move from her spot at all.
Grant was still in a coma for the rest of the night, barely hearing different voices when people came into the room. Early morning came and there wasn't any progress when it came to Grant. The doctor's were in there almost every hour to check in on him and see if there was anything they could do but it was out of their hands until Grant woke up on his own. All they suggested was talking to him and making him realize that they were present and trying their best to interact with them. It was the only thing they could do to help and hope that Grant heard and fought back to wake up. That morning, Grant faintly heard his wife pleading with him to come back to him, having a feeling it was something she was doing all night long. It sounded so familiar and echoed in his head and this time it was enough to bring him back. Slowly opening his eyes for the first time since falling on set the day before, Grant cleared his throat and tried to speak but everything was dizzy and he felt pain coming from all areas.
Danielle didn't get any sleep the night prior. Everyone kept coming in and out of the room in order to visit with Grant and talk to him, but there was no movement what so ever. The only sound that registered from Grant was the heart monitor that beeped in the room. He was doing fine. He just needed to wake up. The kids were scared, as kids were, and she had to hold onto Matty all night until Donna took his sleeping form and the rest of the children home. Alison was holding on strong, but she could tell that her daughter had cried for so much. Danielle didn't leave Grant's side, as Tina and Tom were there with her as well, and she didn't break contact with her husband either. Every single time that she could, she pleaded for her husband to wake up, whispering them just so that he could hear. Even when Tom and Tina were asleep, she wasn't. She just placed her head near her Grant's and whisper into his ear, pleading with him to open his eyes and to come back for them. It wasn't until early morning that there was movement and Danielle's frame jolted. "Baby", she spoke out as Grant opened his eyes. Hers were red, haggard, but at least Grant would be okay. "Tommy. Oh my God. My Tommy", she continued to sob out, bringing her head into the crook of his neck, bending since she was standing. Tom and Tina were already right beside her, Tom yelling out for a nurse or a doctor to tell them that Grant was awake.
Grant blinked a few times and cleared his throat but his throat was too dry to do anything. He let out a groan because of the pain and he was glad that his father was trying to get a doctor in there, needing some kind of medicine. "Water?" He choked out, looking around in hopes that he could get some. Soon enough his mother gave him a glass and helped him take a few sips before he started coughing. "What happened? How long was I out for?" He asked once he was able to speak. Grant's head was pounding and he looked down to see a cast on his leg, meaning that it had to be broken. All he could remember was filming his movie and now he was sitting in a hospital bed, realizing that his dream of being in an action movie was probably now over. Staring at Danielle, he frowned out how upset he looked and he reached out to grab her hand, giving it a gentle squeeze, not having much of his strength back yet.
Danielle watched as Tina grabbed water for Grant and he took it eagerly. The brunette was rendered motionless, not knowing what to do or what to say, but all she could do was just watch everything that happened. Her eyes still showed fear, but there was that bit of relief that had been shown. Grant was awake, finally awake, and she couldn't believe it. Nurses and doctors came into ask questions, but she didn't say much. Instead, she just stayed by Grant's side and towards his head, holding onto his hand and pressing her lips to his forehead. It was the only way she could begin to show her relief, her happiness, and her amazing gratitude for everyone involved. Quietly now, she listened to the doctors explain all that happened. Since Grant was in a small coma, there would be some memory loss that would be common, and she'd just have to answer all of the questions that she saw fit. "You've gone through pretty extensive surgery", her mother in law told Grant and her both, she nodding to agree. "We're going to want to keep you in the hospital for a little bit longer; but if you have any questions or want something else for the pain, tell us. It seems as though the morphine pack there is almost empty. We'll grab you another one", the doctor told them all before he left. "You scared all of us", Danielle whispered out and laid her forehead against' her husband's gently. "But you're back to us and you're safe and okay. Thank goodness. I don't know what I would do without you."
Grant pursed his lips when the doctor said that he had to stay a little while in the hospital. He had a feeling he would have to considering he felt like he couldn't even move and had a lot of injuries that had to heal first at least somewhat. Grant thanked the doctor when he said he was going to get him more medicine, needing it desperately. Staring at his wife and family, Grant didn't even know what to say, knowing they must have been so worried while he was out of it. "I'll be okay. You can't get rid of me that easily," he whispered before coughing which caused a pain in his torso. When the doctor came back, Grant watched as the nurse followed and began putting some medicine in his IV. "So Grant, you have a minor concussion, a gash on your head that needed five stitches, some bruised ribs, seven stitches in your side, a broken leg, twelve stitches in your calf and some minor cuts. You're lucky to be alive, Mr. Gustin. Lets just say you'll be needing several weeks, maybe even months to heal."
Danielle jolted back a bit when Grant started coughing, realizing it must have been an effect that had happened while he was in the hospital. To make matters worse, the IV for his medication had gone down and there was nothing that she could do about it. All that could happen for the brunette was just her inwardly thanking everything and everyone that had managed to come help her and have Grant stay in her well wishes. At this point, there was nothing to be had and nothing to be done. Once the nurses came in, Danielle let out a sigh because that meant that Grant would be getting his medication, but the doctor came back in and said everything that had managed to happen to Grant and saying that he might not be fully healed until months later. “Okay, thank you”, the brunette said now, not wanting what the doctor said to worry her husband. The only thing he should be focusing on would be resting and healing to make sure that he was back in tip top shape. They had enough money coming in any way from residuals that they could continue to live comfortably. “Do you need anything”, Danielle started out again, whispering her words and brushing a finger along the hand that she was holding onto. “I’ll do whatever you want.”
Grant didn't realize just how badly his injuries were and how many he had. He vaguely remembered falling off the roof while filming his movie and to think he had gotten cut so many times on the way down freaked him out. How was he supposed to live like this for weeks, months even? He had kids to raise with his wife and if he was stuck in bed all day, he knew that would also effect him emotionally and mentally as well. Trying not to freak out about it, Grant cleared his throat and looked at Danielle as she spoke. "I need to see the kids. I'm sure they're freaking out," he mumbled, squeezing his eyes tightly. "I just want to tell them that I'm okay. And then...I don't know," he said quietly, looking down at his hands. "I was so scared, baby. You're still my little boy, you always will be and I thought I lost you," his mom said as she took Danielle's spot once she went to get the kids. "It's okay, Mom. I'm oaky. I promise. But I'm also scared to live life this for a while," he whispered shakily, leaning his head against hers.
Danielle didn’t want to leave Grant’s side, but knew that she was going to have to in order to get the kids here to the hospital. For the first time in twenty-four hours, the brunette had left the room that her husband was in and picked up her cell phone from her pocket. She dialed the number to the house, knowing that her parents were probably around to pick up and sighed when her mother actually did. “Mama”, Danielle whispered out. Her mother, bless her heart, was still as freewheeling and caring as much as she could be at her age. Donna’s voice triggered Danielle’s own tears, falling to sit down in the waiting room outside of intensive care so that she’d have someplace to sit. “Mama, can you bring the kids”, Danielle continued to speak out through her tears and suddenly Donna was absolutely screaming. “Don’t tell me my son in law is dead”, her mother screamed into the phone and Danielle quickly squashed that notion. “No Mama, Grant’s awake! He wants to see the kids.” About a minute later, she heard a click in her phone, meaning the call was ended or either dropped. Either way, the kids would be here. Sure enough, the Panabakers entered the waiting room along with the little Gustins, Matty immediately running into Danielle’s arms and clinging tight. “Danielle. Have you eaten anything yet?” Danielle shook her head and ushered the kids into the room where Grant would be. “I’m not hungry”, she started out, mumbling her words. Truth be told, she hadn’t remembered the last time she had food in her system either. “Daddy”, Alison was the first one to speak when the kids entered the room, rushing over towards them. Harry would be with Tom now, and Matty in his grandmother’s lap. “Daddy”, Alison spoke out again. “Are you okay?”
Grant got comfort from his mother while Danielle was getting the kids, sighing shakily as he really took the time to process what was going on. "I can't believe this happened. All I wanted to do was film my first action movie and it nearly got me killed. I have a family and it's just...so scary to think about," he whispered. "I know honey, I know. It pains me that you got this badly hurt but just think that you're here and eventually you'll be one hundred percent again. That's what matters and you have all the support in the world until you get there," Tina said and Grant smiled softly. "Thanks Mom, I love you," he whispered, closing his eyes as he rested his head on his shoulder. Suddenly he heard familiar voices outside of his room and smiled slightly as the kids and Danielle came in. "Hey sweetheart," he whispered as Alison got close to him. "Yeah, I'll be okay," he smiled softly. "Daddy you have so many marks on you," Matty said before frowning. "I do, don't I? That's okay though, they'll go away eventually."
Danielle made sure that her children would agitate their father while he was resting, but she couldn’t dare to break away from them at this point. Surrounding Grant would be his whole family, his mother and father, his children, and herself. Maybe it was too many people for that small room, but Danielle wouldn’t budge. That was the first and last time she’d leave Grant’s side unless absolutely necessary and there was no matter of life and death for her. For now, she just relaxed into letting Matty and Grant talk, laying a hand on Alison’s shoulder when she got her answer quested. She was more than satisfied with it, knowing that her father would be okay had eased her worries so much more and Danielle had become visibly relaxed as such. “Can I sign your cast, Daddy”, her daughter spoke out, already with a sharpie marker from her pocket. “I wanna color on it”, Matty quickly added on and Danielle brought out a hand to make a deal with her children. “How about we let Daddy rest for a little bit before we start drawing on him”, she spoke out, letting out a soft laugh afterwards and Alison put away her marker.
Grant smiled softly when Alison asked if she could sign his cast. He hadn't really thought about it but he figured that the kids would get a kick out of drawing on it and if it made them happy, he wasn't going to say no. He was glad however when Danielle told them to let him rest first, feeling exhausted and not up for much more company anymore. "We'll let you get some rest, sweetie. I'll let everybody know you're okay," Tina said before kissing the top of his head gently, Grant nodding and waving to his father who left the room with the kids. Now it was just him and Danielle and he got a good look at her, realizing how exhausted and worn down she looked. He knew she probably was a wreck while he was out but now that he was alert and okay, Grant wanted to make sure she was okay. "You need to get some rest, D. Why don't you go home and take a shower and get some sleep in bed. There's no sense sitting here if I'm just going to sleep. Don't make me call your mom," he said, teasing slightly to lighten the mood.
Danielle said her goodbyes to her babies when they left the room with their grandparents. Now it was just Danielle and Grant in one room and like she had done so earlier, she wasn’t leaving. Even when Grant said she looked haphazard from the events, she meant to tease and cross her arms, letting out a teasing huff. “Call my mom then”, she challenged him, sticking out her tongue and trying to make the mood just as light as he did. However, she knew she had to take care of herself as well and stood up, pressing her lips to her husband’s forehead. “Promise me you’ll do whatever it takes to get home”, she whispered out to him and said her goodbyes for the evening. When time came, it was great to have Grant back at home. All of the children had started to help out more around the house and they were so happy to have their dad back and around the house in any way. There were a few things that had to be changed, of course. While Grant was in the hospital, she called for construction of their Los Angeles home, building an elevator that would take them from the hallway that connected the kitchen to the living room upstairs to the loft area where the kids generally played with their toys. It didn’t take long and they were helping him with every day to day chores—just like how with Danielle handing Grant a bag to wrap around his casts. “Baby”, Danielle started to speak out to her husband now, grabbing his attention and holding out her hands. “Are you ready for your shower?”
Grant was trying to adjust to life at home with a broken leg and several other injuries. It was hard and frustrating, not being able to really move around but he was grateful for the elevator they had gotten put into their home so that it would make it easier for Grant to get from floor to floor. He didn't expect it but Danielle insisted and he knew better than to argue with her. The kids had been such a big help and while he was proud of him, he also felt slightly guilty for not being able to do what he was supposed to which resulted in the kids doing more than ever before. He was snapped out of his thoughts when Danielle came into the bedroom with some bags to wrap around his cast and Grant nodded slowly. "Yeah," he replied quietly. He was a little nervous how this was going to happen and felt stupid that he needed Danielle's help but that's just how things were. Grabbing his crutches, Grant made his way into the bathroom and let out a soft sigh, waiting for Danielle to help him take off his clothes.
Danielle followed her husband into the en suite bathroom that they had in their bedroom and made sure to do things as planned. Of course there had been added features that were in the bathroom already that she had to modify. The little bench where they managed to keep their shampoos and soaps had been moved to a rack in the corner and the nozzle would now be removable. It would be good for the both of them, considering that Danielle could easily remove the head of the shower and bring it down with the water running so that she’d be able to get everything. Even Grant would be able to sit in the bench if need be. “Under normal circumstances, I’d actually join you in the shower”, the brunette teased her husband, trying to lighten the mood as she tugged off his shirt. Grant being home had done a number on everyone, but she could see that he was being aloof and quiet more so than ever. Once his shirt was off, she didn’t waste time and ran her fingers along his chest, looking at some of the scars that hadn’t healed yet. “They don’t hurt as much anymore, do they”, Danielle asked of her husband before bringing her hands down to the pants that he had been wearing and further undressing him.
Grant simply smiled softly when Danielle said normally she would join him in the shower. It was sadly the last thing on his mind in his condition and knew it would still be a long time before they could even think about being intimate like that again and that upset him. He knew how much he and Danielle both took comfort in being physically intimate and connected in that way and to think they'd be without it for a while really freaked him out. When she helped him with his shirt, Grant pursed his lips and stared at her as she stared at the cuts that were still on his chest. "Not as much," he replied quietly, standing up slightly so that Danielle could get his pants and boxers off. Once he was naked, Grant sat back down on the small bench they now had in their shower and waited for the water to get turned on. "Make sure it's not cold," he told his wife before smiling slightly.
Danielle turned on water as fast as she could so that she wouldn’t keep her husband waiting for long. The water pressure on the new nozzle had been great and she smiled at Grant when he did the same. “I promise”, Danielle said as she made sure that the pressure was perfect and the temperature was the same. Once it was, it was just enough now in order for her to give to him so that he’d be able to spray him down with everything. It was a weird notion, having to shower her husband like this, but it was something that she had to do and she was going to make sure she was thorough. “Here’s the nozzle for you to hold”, she started out now, handing Grant the shower nozzle to hold while she reached out for the shampoo. “And please don’t spray me while I get your hair.” There it was again, Danielle trying to keep the energy light as she started on washing Grant’s hair for him. her fingers were massaging gently, but also careful to avoid any of the stitches that were there because it was still healing. “Tell me if I’m hurting you”, she also reminded him, wanting to make sure he was comfortable as he possibly could.
sadfdsa lost
Danielle finished up washing her husband rather quickly now that he said he was getting almost cold, wanting to work quickly so he wouldn't get sick. After all of that was done, she managed to grab a towel and handed it over towards him, letting him dry off as best as she could while she started to herself. She didn't get every part of her body wet, but the brunette's shirt was soaked and she might as well had gotten in another shower before she'd be able to pick up the kids from school. Getting dressed was another obstacle in Grant's healing process so far, but she was definitely more than willing to help him out. Picking out a shirt for him, she opened the neck and placed it over her head and allowed his arms to go into the sockets. "Do you want sweatpants today", she asked of her husband while opening the drawer where his boxers would lay and turned her attention over to him. Hazel eyes showed no malice, but rather warmth and the smile that was upon her lips radiated happiness. "Are you okay", she asked of him now, eyebrows furrowing. "You aren't cold, are you?"
Grant sat there and just stared blankly at Danielle as she moved around the room, picking out clothes for him and trying to get things together. When she asked if he wanted sweatpants today, Grant nodded, knowing it didn't really matter what he wore because he wouldn't be living the house. He hadn't left the house at all since getting discharged from the hospital and it was driving him crazy. Barely being able to leave his bed was even worse and he just felt insignificant and that he couldn't do anything. When she put a shirt on him, Grant pursed his lips and shook his head when she asked if he was cold. "I'm fine," he said quietly, helping her as best as he could so that she could put his boxers and sweatpants on but he couldn't move much. He took the bags off his leg so that they were off his cast and now that he was dressed, Grant just sat there. "Guess I'll just get some rest," he mumbled, leaning back against the bed carefully.
Danielle sighed and finished up what she needed to do, listening to her husband go on and say that he was fine. She knew the tone, but didn't want to say much about it since she didn't want to make a genuinely big scene about it. Instead, she managed to change her own shirt with one of his and sat down beside him once he was dressed. She had a little bit of time before going to pick up the kids and it was not an opportunity to pass up if she got a chance to rest easy at this point. Harry's baby snores could be heard through the baby monitor and she could see him through the web cam they placed in his room and into the little monitor that she kept at her bedside. "You're going to be okay", she said as she leaned over and pressed her lips to the top of Grant's head. "That's all you can do is rest easy and everyone will be here and home to help you out before you know it. Just try and get your strength back, alright?" And sure enough, not a second later, Harry was already fussing about in his room and she bolted up to leave for her nursery.
Grant just looked at his wife when she said he was going to be okay. He knew that but it was going to take a while and that was the problem and what made things difficult. Nodding when she spoke, Grant watched as she left the room and that's when he closed his eyes to try and get some sleep. Most of his days had been like that and it really affected Grant emotionally and mentally. He felt miserable and helpless and motionless and like he wasn't even living life, just going through the motions. He was tired of feeling this way, tired of Danielle having to do everything with the kids while he just sat there. Her having to feed him, bathe him and just take care of him was incredibly frustrating for Grant, wanting to be able to do that for his wife. Tired of feeling this way, Grant decided to take matters into his own hands. He didn't know what Danielle was doing but she must have been busy cleaning and he was hungry, so he made his way down into the kitchen using the elevator. Once he was down there, Grant used his crutches to get around, attempting to get a bowl of cereal for himself. Even if it was mid afternoon, it was the easiest thing to do. Taking the milk out first, Grant then reached for a bowl which made him groan, eventually getting it on the counter. The tough part was going to be the box of cereal, even higher than the bowls cabinet. Using his crutch to try and get it down, Grant lost his balance and the cereal box fell on his head and he fell to the floor. "Daddy!" He suddenly heard as Matty came running into the kitchen. When he saw that Grant was on the floor, he immediately ran upstairs, figuring he was going to get Danielle which made Grant feel even worse.
Danielle had a routine that was needed throughout the day that she could do and basically stuck to it. On the weekends, her children would be home and they would need entertainment. After entertainment would be clean up time. Usually entertainment would be a group creative activity that she did and today of all days, the two oldest had decided paper crafting. The loft was usually their creative space and paper crafting was fun enough that the both of them could enjoy. Matty had decided to paint his pictures and Alison draw hers, but when Matty got paint all over him, paint usually got all over everything else. She was desperately trying to clean off the paint on the chairs that the children sat in while they did their activities upstairs, but was met with a frantic Matty yelling for her. "Matty", she breathed out and tried ot get her son to calm down. "Mama, Daddy fell and I don't know if he's going to be okay or get up. Come quick, come quick", her son started to speak. Ever since Grant's accident, Matty had started watching over his father like a hawk, going everywhere that Grant went just so that he'd be able to help him. Even Max was barking up a storm when she came down to the kitchen, Barry running around and trying to alert everyone while Krypto just stared at what was happening. Alison also ran down as well to see Grant sitting downstairs with cereal all over him, and Danielle had to let out a sigh since nothing too major happened. "Are you okay", Danielle asked of Grant and held out her hands for him to grab to stand up. Alison had ended up reaching for the crutches so that she could give them to him once everyone was balanced on their feet and Matty tried rounding up the dogs as best as he could in the kitchen. "Baby, you should have called me to get you food if you wanted something to eat."
Grant heard everyone coming down the stairs while he was on the floor and while he wished he could just get up on his own, he knew he needed the help. Slowly sitting up slightly, Grant took Danielle's hands and tried his best to get up, not wanting to put pressure on his broken leg. Taking the crutches from his daughter, Grant pursed his lips and got out of the way, seeing the dogs starting to come to eat the cereal that ended up spilling on the floor. "I wanted to get it myself," he muttered. "You can't, Daddy. You're hurt," Matty said and it just made him feel even worse, even if he knew his son didn't mean to do that. "I know Matty," he replied, sitting on the kitchen stool and rubbing his face with his hands. Grant was so tired of this and not even being able to get himself something to eat yet was just a painful reminder that he still had a long way to go with his recovery.
Danielle pulled up Grant as slowly as she could and made her way to help him sit on the stool. Alison was already there and holding out the crutches and Matty had already gone to reprimand his father about being careful. She made a shushing noise at Matty when he was done and brought herself to her knees to get to his level. "You want to be a big help to Mama", she asked of her son and pointed to where the dogs were currently eating the cereal. "If you want to get the dogs out and go play in the backyard with them while Mama in here cleans up everything", she said and Matty's eyes lit up, corralling all of the dogs together and made the way out to the backyard. "Alison, would you mind going upstairs and checking up on Harry for me then", Danielle turned to her daughter afterwards, giving them a wary eye but gathered what was happening. Danielle wanted to talk to Grant alone about this and she could honestly tell that her husband was hurting. She just needed to make sure that she could help him through this. "Talk to me", the brunette said once they were alone, cupping his face gently and brushing her thumbs against his cheeks. "What's going on in that head of yours? It's just us. You and me, right here."
Grant was grateful when Danielle started giving the kids something to do so that it was just the two of them in the kitchen. He knew this couldn't go on and he had to talk to Danielle about how he felt. It was hard enough to do to her directly and he definitely didn't want his kids seeing how upset he was and how much it was affecting him. When she asked him to talk to her about what was happening, that was all it took for Grant to start tearing up, feeling her cup his face and brush his cheeks with her thumbs. "I just hate this. I feel so helpless and useless. Like I don't even matter. I can't make a difference. I can't help you or the kids. You have to do everything for me. Do you have any idea how that feels? It makes me feel ridiculous and it shouldn't be happening. Things shouldn't be like this and it's not fair," he whispered as tears rolled down his cheeks. "I don't know what to do but I'm tired of feeling like this and it sucks."
Danielle 's heart ached for Grant with every single word her managed to let out. She hadn't even realized just how closed up he might have felt with being at home constantly with everyone done for him. It was like there wasn't much to be done to begin with; but she could really just see how he must have felt. "It's not. It's really not", the brunette started to speak, brushing away the tears that had managed to fall on his cheeks so that they'd dry up. "All I wanted was for you to be comfortable and help you heal. I just didn't realize that you were feeling like you weren't needed. Honey, you are so needed in the house. We all just love you so much and we didn't want to see you hurt again." She tried to explain the situation as best as she could, but she didn't know if that was going to be the best route for this. "I don't know how to help you with this, Baby. Do you want more physical therapy sessions to get you back on your feet?" It was the only thing she could think of, but honestly, this was out of her element. It had been so long since they had gone through this and to have it rush back in full force had been tricky to handle. "Baby", Danielle cooed out again. "Tell me what you want and I'll see what I can do. I just want you to be happy while you're trying to heal up."
Grant knew there wasn't much Danielle could do about the situation but he just needed to talk to her about it and let her in. When she said he was needed, Grant let out a sob and shook his head. "Not right now. I can't even do anything right now," he breathed out, wiping his eyes with the back of his hand quickly. He listened as she said she didn't know how to help him with this and Grant didn't know the answers either. Maybe more physical therapy sessions was a good idea because it could speed up the process but he also knew that his body was going to heal at its own pace anyway so there was a chance it wouldn't even matter. "I don't know," he whispered hopelessly. "I don't know what to do and I know you don't either and it's just an awful feeling," he whispered before sniffling. "I don't know how to be happy when I can barely leave the bedroom," he sighed, tugging at his hair in frustration.
Danielle shook her head at her husband. "Then leave the bedroom", she said now, wanting to make sure that she was heard. "Play with the kids, go outside into the backyard. No one's stopping you", she continued on. Of course she'd be there and willing to help him out in every single way, but there was a part of her that was scared that he'd be hurt again like now. Everything was always a catch-22 and she literally had no idea on how to get them both over it. "Do you want to do things to break up your routine?" Maybe it was a long shot for her to actually just say anything, but she didn't want to make it seem like she didn't care. She cared so much about his happiness and all she wanted to do was to make sure of everything. Her hands went out to his now, taking down his hand and then lacing her fingers with his. "Baby, you and I are a team. We've always been a team and we're always going to be a team. So I want you to tell me when you're frustrated or angry. I want you to tell me all of this. When it happens so we can talk it out."
Grant sighed and shook his head. "It's not that simple, Danielle. How am I supposed to play with them when I can't even walk?" He said. "No one's stopping me but I can't even make my own food and when I tried to, you just told me that I should've asked you. Like I'm incapable of doing anything on my own," he snapped. Rubbing his face with his hands, Grant knew that Danielle was just trying to help but he felt so frustrated with his condition and he knew that until he was healed, nothing would truly get better. "I know which is why I told you now but still," he mumbled, pursing his lips. "I think I'm just going to get some sleep. My head is just not in a good place and I can't be around the kids right now," he said quietly. Even if he could make his way to the backyard to just watch Matty running around with the dogs, it would probably make him feel worse that he couldn't be running around with them. Grant got off the stool and grabbed his crutches, making his way towards the elevator to get back to the bedroom.
Danielle let out a sigh. She was utterly powerless in this notion and wanted nothing more than to just help her husband get over it. Seeing Grant walk away from her wasn’t anything good either, her heart aching for what was to happen. If anything, she was more than just saddened at the notion of not being able to help. A week went by with the same routine. Danielle would get up and get the kids going to school before coming back and helping with Grant any way. The physical therapist would come over to the house or she’d have to drive Grant to the actual gym, but things were just the same. If anything, the only thing that managed to change was her dinner plans. Finishing up what she cooked, the brunette let the kids set the table before coming upstairs. Having the elevator installed for Grant was a great perk and she used it when she needed to get up and down the floors in a pinch. “Honey”, she started out and knocked on their bedroom door to get his attention. “Dinner’s ready. You wanna come downstairs and eat with us?”
Grant had been trying his best to be in better spirits but it was still proving to be difficult. Doing his physical therapy would help a little bit, though it usually left him sore and uncomfortable afterwards. Grant knew it was all to help in the long run and at least the therapist said he was making steady progress. After finishing up physical therapy that day, Grant had gotten a call from his agent and heard the worst news possible. With his recovery and the length of time it would take, they had told Grant that they were going to have to get someone else to play his role. They hadn't gotten too far with production and while they were trying to hold out for him, they couldn't any longer. "Thanks," he mumbled to his agent before hanging up the phone and tossing it on the floor. He laid on his side and stared blankly at the wall lost in his own thoughts until he heard Danielle enter the room. When she asked him if he wanted to eat with them, Grant shook his head. "Not hungry," he replied quietly, staying in his position.
Danielle knew that something was up and chalked it to regular stress of his injury. She didn’t see the phone on the floor until she started walking towards him. “What’s wrong”, the brunette started out, holding out her hand and picking up the phone in the process. “What happened?” Sitting down on the bed now, half of her seat in the bed and the other half just braced herself onto the floor so that she’d be able to sit. Her eyes scanned his frame, seeing him stare blankly at the wall and not even bothering to look at her. “Baby, I can easily bring food up here if you don’t want to eat. But you got to talk to me. What’s going on? What’s the matter?” Maybe it was a lost cause to beg for him to talk to her or maybe it wasn’t, but Danielle was going to make it known that she would be here for Grant no matter what happened. “What can I do to make this better?”
Grant sighed when Danielle asked him what was wrong. He saw her grab his phone and now he knew he had to tell her what had happened and what phone call got him so angry. It's not that he wanted to keep things from his wife but it was getting depressing just telling her negative things, first his feelings and how helpless he felt and now that he wouldn't get to do this role he had worked so hard for. "My agent called me to tell me that they can't wait for me to heal. They have to get someone else to take my place. All those dreams of being in an action movie are over I guess," he mumbled, shaking his head. He was now incredibly discouraged and now it felt like things were just getting worse and worse. "I worked so hard to get that role, you know how hard I worked and now it feels like it was for nothing," he sighed, running a hand through his hair. "This is ruining my life," he whispered shakily. "I can't do anything I want, anything at all really until I heal and it fucking sucks."
Danielle listened on to the news that Grant had given her. Of course it stunk that to have that happened to her husband. Grant had worked so hard to get to where he had been now for the role of a lifetime, one of his dreams of actually doing all of this again after being away from The Flash for so long; but there was just literally nothing they could do. It was out of their hands and into the producers and the movie company actually calling for it, and her heart ached for her husband. Maybe it was a blessing in disguise, having been out of commission now; but to hear that his life was ruined was just something she wasn’t going to tolerate. “Honey”, she started out firm, cupping his face with her hands to demand his attention. The brunette brought her head down now as well, nose a hair away from each other, and said her words firm. “Your life is not ruined. You worked hard to get the role. You got the role. You got hurt during the role”, she started out, and then licked at her lips in order to continue. “You get hurt. You fall down. And you get back up again. The only thing stopping you from doing what you want is yourself. So it hurts, but you’re trying to get better and the only thing trying is doing. So get up and stop this negative thinking and just do.” She ended her speech with a peck to his lips, showing him just a bit of affection before letting go of his face.
Grant listened as Danielle said that his life wasn't ruined. He knew she was right but it still felt that way, even if it was temporary. Right now he felt like he couldn't live life the way he wanted to and that frustrated and upset him more than anything. He wasn't able to play with his kids or do things with his life and he just hated the way this incident had changed his attitude and really effected his everyday life. Nodding as she spoke, Grant ran a hand through his hair and sighed. "I know, you're right. But it's harder than you're making it seem. You don't know what it's like and you're not in my shoes. I can't even wear shoes," he scoffed, shaking his head as he looked at the cast on his leg. "I'm doing my best to get better and I work hard at physical therapy but it doesn't mean that everything is so easy. I still can't play football with Matty or take Alison out for ice cream or go on a date with you. You don't know how much it sucks not being able to do what I want to do or live my life how I want."
Danielle dropped her hands so that Grant could continue with his actions, setting herself down in defeat. He was right when he said she didn't know what he was going through. She wasn't ever in his position in her life and even though she had goaded him to talk about his feelings and what was going on with his health, she wouldn't ever be able to relate. However, that didn't mean that she couldn't learn and try to help. That didn't mean that she just had to sit idly by and watch him go through life like this. "You're right, I don't know", the brunette started to speak, whispering her words. Was it hopeless to get through her husband when he was in one of these moods? Not really, but stress was a big indicator and a harsh thing to have by anyone's side. "I don't know what it's like to be bedridden and I know I would absolutely hate it too; but there are other things you can do in the meantime. There are other things that you can do too. It doesn't have to be football with Matty. Did you know that he asked if you could paint with him the other day? And have you tried any of the ice cream that Alison made? Just because you're used to doing things with your kids one way, doesn't mean there isn't another way." But she paused her words. Maybe she was pushing just a little too much and maybe she was just doing it because she loved and cared for him and hated seeing him like this; but there had to be a better way to deal. There had to be a better way to deal with it. "I love you", Danielle whispered out at this point, laying a hand on his cast. "And it's going to be hard and it's going to hurt, but it's also going to give you a better payoff in the future."
Grant didn't realize that his kids had been asking for him to do things with him that he could actually do. It made him feel guilty but also made him realize that he could do some things, even if it wasn't what he had originally thought or normally did with them. Painting with Matty was something he could definitely do and he didn't even know Alison was making ice cream now. "I feel like I'm missing so much up here in our room. I don't want to miss things anymore," he whispered, staring into her eyes. It was still going to be hard but he wanted to fix things and be able to do stuff, even if it was little by little. "Thank you. For always supporting me and helping me and talking sense into me. I love you so much and I'm so lucky to have such an incredible wife," he whispered, leaning in to kiss her gently. "I'm ready to make some changes," he said. And Grant did just that. He started doing little by little with his kids and was able to slightly contribute to things which made his mood better. He continued working hard in physical therapy and was happy to hear that he was making a lot of progress and would get his cast off soon. The day he got his cast off and was able to walk on his two feet, even if it wasn't normally yet had been a great day. Grant continued progressing and even if he had some of his scars still as well as bruises, he was glad to be able to get back to some of his everyday life activities.
Danielle let out a sigh of relief and leapt forward into her husband's arms. She had finally began to see a glimmer of him coming back to her, a little sparkle of happiness, and that was something that she wanted to nurture and cherish and help grow. "I love you and I want what's best for you", Danielle whispered into Grant's shoulder, her words muffled and mumbled. Just little things here and there would be able to get him back on his feet and she was going to make sure that all of it would be ready for him to do. "The kids are going to be so happy", she continued to speak out before breaking the hug that she stole from him to return the kiss. It was just gentle and something that lasted for a moment, but it was one of the most glorious things that had managed to happen to her. It was a glimmer of a chance of something new and soon they would be on their way to a road of recovery. Grant's leg had almost healed and he got his cast off, which Danielle was most excited about. Progress had been the name of the game and soon, all of the children had done some progress along with him--even baby Harry who managed to take his first steps ran to Grant one day while Danielle had inadvertently picked up a phone call from Grant's phone by mistake. "Okay", Danielle spoke out and hung up the phone before going back to her family, watching as Harry took his first few steps again near his father. "I'm sorry", she cooed out to the both of them. "But I picked up your phone by mistake and your agent called. He said he wanted to talk to you about declining a job."
Grant was sitting on the floor with Harry, grinning from ear to ear as his six month son started taking his first steps. He was so proud of him and Danielle was nowhere to be found and couldn't see it happening again. Luckily they were both there for it the first time it happened but now Harry was slowly taking more steps and he wanted his wife to see it. "Good job buddy! Daddy's so proud of you," he said, tickling Harry's stomach which made him giggle. "Babe! Harry is taking steps again!" He said happily as he heard her coming down the stairs. When she had said she answered his phone by mistake and that she talked to his agent about a job he declined, Grant pursed his lips and looked down at Harry's shoes. Ever since falling and hurting himself badly, Grant had been afraid to take on another role and it wasn't something he liked talking about. "Uh yeah...I just didn't think it was for me. It happens," he shrugged.
Danielle nodded her head when Grant started explaining why he declined the offer for the role. He hadn't gone back to do another role in a movie or television after the accident happened and she didn't know if it was because he was still healing or because something else had managed to happen. At this point, she wanted to ask him about it, but Harry's first little baby steps had been so cute and so precious that she couldn't just not focus on that. Holding out her arms for her child, she wanted to see if he'd take a few steps, but he ended up going over towards Grant again. That had made her smile, but that also gave her the chance to talk to Grant about this. "What kind of movie was it? Was it a romantic comedy? Another little indie? Or was it one of those big blockbuster action ones", she started out, trying to goad out information from her husband at this point.
Grant smiled as Harry made some small steps towards him each time Grant put him close to him. It was adorable and even when he would lose his balance, Harry would laugh hysterically and it made Grant grin even more. When Danielle started asking him what kind of movie it was, Grant started internally panicking, having flashbacks to how much the action movie he signed on for really damaged him and ended up putting him out of commission for a while. Swallowing hard, Grant cleared his throat and pulled Harry into his lap, mainly for comfort for himself before looking at his wife. "It was an action one I guess, yeah. I dunno, just didn't seem like it was for me," he shrugged, bouncing Harry in his lap. "I think Harry's hungry, I'm gonna feed him," he said quietly, picking up his son and heading into the kitchen to change the subject.
Danielle let out a sigh. Now she realized what was going on and she wasn't sure how she would be able to approach this. Everything that had managed to happen to Grant would be scary and terrifying to anyone; but letting fear hinder a dream wouldn't be right at all. She followed Grant into the kitchen and raised an eyebrow when he said he had to feed Harry. She wasn't going to object to it, but that didn't mean that she couldn't talk about it either. "Baby", she started out again at this point, trying to catch his attention. The brunette sat on one of the stools near the island in order to get comfortable and watch her husband. "Why didn't it seem like it was for you? The writer and director apparently asked for you personally", she started out again, this time adding that notion into it. "I don't want to seem like I'm pushing to go to work, but you're all healed up and you're clear to do anything you want. So why not?" Okay, so maybe just asking outright might not have been the best bet, but she prided herself on her relationship with Grant to be open and mindful of each other's feelings and intuitions. "Talk to me. What's going on? Why did you really say no to the agent?"
Grant grabbed a jar of mashed peas from the cabinet and took a spoon so that he could start feeding Harry, sitting on a stool and keeping his son in his lap. When Danielle followed him, Grant pursed his lips, realizing he wasn't going to get off the hook that easily. He knew that the producers really wanted him for this role and it meant a lot to him and he really wanted to do it. But after everything that happened, Grant was hesitating and just didn't know what to do so he said no. "Yeah I know but..." He trailed off before shrugging. "I don't know. I guess I'm just afraid. I got really hurt the last time and almost died, Danielle. What if that happens again? I probably won't get so lucky this time. And honestly I thought you'd probably be the one telling me not to. Aren't you afraid of what might happen to me?" He asked while staring at her. "I just don't want to let anyone down or screw anything up or ruin things again," he mumbled as he put some food in Harry's mouth.
Danielle let out a noise when Grant asked if Danielle was afraid. "Of course I am", she started out, truth and passion in her words. "I never wanted to feel like how I felt that night in the hospital again. My world broke apart and I didn't know what to do. It was like everything came to a halt and I didn't know how to breathe." That night in the hospital had been one of the worst that she ever managed to have, but that didn't mean that she wasn't going to let that fear hinder her. Hearing Grant say that he didn't want to let anyone down had been one of the most endearing things she heard that day, but it was still so sad to hear him self deprecating. "You're afraid that you're going to get hurt again", she started out, recalling what he had managed to tell her. "I don't want you hurt. I don't know what I would do if you were; but I also don't want you living life with regrets. What ifs. I don't want you living life with fear ruling you and your actions." Danielle did bring out a hand to cup his cheek, giving him a soft smile in the process. "I will support you in every decision you want to go; but do it only if your heart feels like it's right. You're stronger than you let on. You're stronger than you believe that you are. I know it. Those producers and writers know it. And now's your chance to show the world that you can get back on your feet--but that's ultimately up to you."
Grant listened as Danielle spoke, putting the spoon down so that he could focus on her. When she explained how she felt the night he got hurt, Grant nodded and stared at his hands. It was a tough situation for both of them and that's why he didn't want to go through it again or risk it happening again. He was afraid and even if it had been six months it was still pretty fresh in his mind and he wasn't sure how to handle that. He understood where Danielle was coming from, knowing if he didn't take this first step then he would always be afraid and miss out on so many opportunities. It was still his dream to be in an action movie and getting this chance again seemed pretty perfect, especially since the producers and people behind the movie wanted him in particular. "Thank you. I think you have enough faith in me for the both of us and I really appreciate it. You're right. I can't just keep declining roles. Maybe a part of me will always be a little worried or not ready but I can't let that part win. I want to keep doing what I love doing and this is the first step. I'll call my agent back and hopefully it's not too late."
Danielle smiled with each word that Grant managed to speak out, something that was amazing for her to hear. He was right. There were things that were going to set him back, but if he pushed forward and followed on his dreams, he could overcome them. Maybe he’d have to take his time in doing so, but at least they’d be able to get to it. Hearing him go on about not letting the fear win had been uplifting, such a great joy to have and everything about the notion had been so perfect. “I don’t think it will be, baby. They’re really set on having you in the movie. I think it’s a great opportunity to have—as long as you’re careful and you let your double handle the things that you don’t feel up to it.” Danielle’s tone of voice had been full of amazement and wonder and she too leaned forward to press her lips to his in order to show her happiness for it. “And we’ll be there every step of the way—including this little guy who took his first steps today, oh my goodness. Didn’t even crawl. Just took off running to his daddy, huh?” She started tickling Harry’s little belly at this point, trying to goad laughter from him too, but for the first time in a while she finally felt like they were back to normal.
Grant smiled softly and nodded. "I really hope so," he said, knowing this was an opportunity he should take instead of letting it pass. He knew that he had a stunt double who could do the things he wasn't comfortable with but Grant felt like the whole part of doing an action movie was getting to do that fun action stuff. "Thank you," he whispered, smiling as she mentioned Harry taking his first steps. "I know, it's amazing. He's getting closer and closer to becoming the best tap dancer ever," he teased, running a hand through his son's hair gently. Kissing the top of his head, Grant handed Harry over to Danielle and stood up. "I'm going to call my agent and see what happens. Wish me luck," he said, leaning in to kiss her gently. Things were finally turning around for Grant and even more so when he had found out he got the role back, excited to get this new chance at doing what he missed out on at first.