...and this is the pranks I get?
By Bea Cook
Pushing the contraption into its case, The Phantom carefully added the pie. Laughing a mischievous laugh, he then closed the door. "This will get him," he said, rubbing his hands together.
****
Walking into the locker room Johnny couldn't stop smiling. Seeing Johnny so happy, Roy knew just what was going through his mind.
"Okay, Johnny...what's her name?" Roy asked, as he finished dressing.
Opening his locker, Johnny smiled even wider. "Jo. We had a..."
"A date," Roy finished for him. "Must have been some date to have you smiling like that."
"Oh it was, Roy. It was incredible!" Johnny was now waving his hands in the air, while dressing. "We went to a great park. It had everything: carousel horses; ice cream stands... Roy, it even had a play house!"
Roy was now smiling like the cat that ate the canary. "Johnny, you never cease to amaze me. You'll do anything to impress a girl."
Shutting his locker, Johnny smiled widely. "Well, Roy, all I can say is..." Before he could continue the tones sounded.
"Squad 51, person trapped in a tree house. 4376 West Alameda. Time out 8:20."
"Squad 51, KMG365," Cap said into the mic.
As they were pulling out, a menacing voice could be heard low...."The Phantom waits.."
Pulling up to the address, the mother ran to the squad. "Please hurry! He's stuck in the tree house and can't get down!"
"What's your sons' name, ma'am," Roy asked, quickly walking to the tree.
"Paul," she said, upset. "Please help him!"
"Don't you worry, Mrs....Mrs...." Johnny paused, waiting for her name.
"Walker, Emily Walker."
"Mrs.Walker, you just calm down now. We'll get him down," Johnny patted her shoulder for reassurance. "How old is Paul?"
"He's fourteen."
Walking up to Roy, Johnny looked once more up at the tree. "I'll go up and see what's wrong."
"Okay, you just be careful," Roy cautioned. "Yell if you need the equipment."
"I will," Johnny said, just starting to climb.
When he got to the top, he went through the tiny door and looked around. He saw Paul struggling; trying to get his foot out of a hole in the floor.
"Hello, Paul, my name is Johnny," he said, kneeling next to Paul. "What seems to be the trouble?"
"I can't get my foot out of this hole," Paul said, pointing down to his foot. "I was putting in another window on this wall and my foot went through the floor."
"Okay, does your foot hurt you any?" Johnny asked, gently probing his ankle.
"No, not really. I just can't get it out!" Paul was getting more aggravated by the minute.
"Now, just relax. Let me see if I can get it loose any." Johnny began to gently tug at Paul's foot. "Doesn't look like it's gonna budge." Johnny stood and went to the window. "Hey, Roy, I think I need a saw up here."
"Okay," Roy called up to him.
Paul's eyes bugged out of his head. "A SAW!" he screamed. "You..you can't cut this floor. Do you know how long it took me to get this done!?"
"I'm sorry," Johnny said, with much sadness. "That is the only way we can get you out of there."
As Roy handed Johnny the saw, Paul tried to get his foot out more. "Maybe, if I just.."
Johnny began cutting the floor. With each pass, Paul grew more upset. "This will take forever to fix," Paul complained.
Johnny put down the saw and tried to pull Paul's foot out once more. With a gentle tug, his foot came free.
"Thanks! That feels much better," Paul said happily. "I just wish you didn't have to cut up my floor."
"I'm sorry about that," Johnny said, helping Paul up. "Lets see if you can walk on it."
Paul began to walk back and forth. "Nope, no pain. Do I have to go down now?" Paul asked, a little disappointed. "I need to fix this hole now, so I can get back to the window."
Johnny began to smile. "No, just be careful okay? No more falling through floors."
"Thank you again, Johnny." Paul quickly turned around and began fixing the hole in the floor.
Climbing down, Johnny and Roy joined Paul's very nervous mother. "He's okay," Roy said, smiling. "He didn't want to come down; he wanted to fix the floor."
"Oh, thank goodness he's okay!" Emily sighed. "You see, the tree house is a surprise for his sister. It's her birthday in a few days."
"Well, that is a very nice thing for him to do," Johnny said, glancing up to the tree once more.
Mrs. Walker smiled proudly. "Yes, he's a good boy. Would you gentleman like some lemonade before you go?"
"No, thank you, ma'am," Roy said, shaking his head. "We really should be getting back to the station now."
"Okay. Thank you, again."
"You're welcome." Waving, they walked back to the squad and put the equipment away.
Going to the drivers side of the squad, Roy began to think. "Hey Johnny," he called out.
"Yeah?"
"Remember that book you keep saying you're going to write?"
As Johnny sat down in the squad, he was confused. Finally he remembered. "Oh, the one about how kids get themselves into trouble?"
"Yeah, that book," Roy said, closing his door.
"Yeah, I remember that book. What about it?"
Roy shook his head. "Don't forget that little experience when you write it."
Nodding in agreement, Johnny began to laugh. "Oh, I won't, Pally. I won't."
Pulling away from the curb, Roy began to laugh with him. "Just don't forget us little people that help you. Okay, Junior?"
"Okay, you've got a deal."
****
The rest of the shift was normal. The station responded to some trash fires. Johnny and Roy helped a woman with twins get their heads out of her stair banister, and even brought a new life into the world. Finally, in what seemed like forever, they had some quiet time.
Walking into the kitchen, Johnny saw Marco, Roy, Mike and Cap all sitting at the table. Getting some coffee, Johnny joined them. "Why all the long faces?" Johnny asked, sipping his coffee.
"We were just saying how it's been quiet for the past three hours," Marco said putting his hands up to his face.
"That's what's wrong?" Johnny asked, unsure of what he was hearing. "I would think that would be good news. Means we just might have a slow night."
"Oh, we don't mean the runs, Johnny," Roy said, slowly. "We're talking about The Phantom. He's too quiet, lately."
"Yeah. Last shift I didn't think I would ever be dry again!" Mike complained.
"Oh, yeah...now that you mention it...you're right," Johnny was suddenly worried. "Where is 'ole Chester B. anyway?"
"He went to the store. It's his night to cook," the Cap answered for all of them.
Just then, Chet walked into the kitchen holding several bags of food. "So, is anyone going to help me with these bags, or would you like to eat off the floor?"
"Well, with your cooking Chet, we might be better off," Johnny said, smiling.
"Oh, very funny, Gage," Chet replied, setting the bags on the counter. "You just wait till you taste what I'm going to make. You'll change your mind." Taking the food out of the bags, Chet decided it was time for The Phantom to make his appearance.
"Hey, Johnny....you wanna hand me a bowl from the cupboard?"
"Here we go...."
"Sure, Chet." Johnny went to the cupboard and opened the door, unsuspecting what was about to happen.
"This is it...."
Johnny didn't even have time to blink before the pie hit him square in the face; all he had time for was a short scream. "AAAAHHHH!!!"
"Got him!!...."
Filling went everywhere. Surprised by the pie, Johnny quickly backpedaled; slipping and spinning as he did. Unknowing of where things were, Johnny hit his head on the corner of the table and went limp.
"Johnny!" Roy screamed. Running to his now-fallen partner, Roy immediately checked Johnny's head. He had a cut right above his right eyebrow. Checking Johnny's pupils, Roy shook his head.
"I need my equipment from the squad," Roy said, looking up.
"I'll get it," Marco replied, running from the room.
As Marco ran for the equipment, Cap called for an ambulance. "LA this is Station 51. We have a still alarm at the station. Man down; request an ambulance."
"Station 51, 10-4. Ambulance has been dispatched. Time out 16:24."
"Roy, is Johnny alright?," Chet asked, shocked by what just happened.
"Right now I don't know, Chet," Roy said, stiffly.
"Well, can I help any?" Chet asked, taking the equipment from Marco and setting it next to Roy.
Roy, realizing Chet did not want to hurt Johnny, sighed slowly. "Sure, Chet. You can hold this bandage while I call Rampart."
Now smiling a little, Chet bent down to hold the bandage over Johnny's head. "Johnny, if you can hear me, I'm sorry."
"I'm sure he knows, Chet," Roy said, picking up the receiver of the Biophone. "Rampart, this is Rescue 51, do you read?"
"Go ahead, 51, we read you," Dr. Brackett responded.
"Rampart, we have a male, age 29. He struck his head on a table and is now unconscious."
"51, what are his vitals?"
"Rampart, vitals are, BP 120/80; pupils are equal and responsive; respiration is 20. Rampart, patient also has a laceration on his forehead."
"51, put a pressure bandage on his head and transport as soon as possible," Brackett ordered.
"10-4, Rampart."
Putting the phone down, Roy reached into the supply box and got the tape. "Okay, Chet.. just hold that bandage while I tape it."
Walking back into the kitchen the Cap looked mad. "Kelly, I want to see you in my office as soon as you're done helping Roy."
"Okay, Cap," Chet replied, going slightly white.
As the ambulance backed up to the station, Chet walked into Cap's office. "Uh, you wanted to see me, Cap?"
"Yes, I did," Cap replied, turning in his chair. "Close the door and sit down."
Chet did as he was ordered. Sitting in the chair, he was still visibly upset.
Cap stood and began pacing the room. "I didn't mind your pranks before, but now someone's been injured."
Chet could only nod.
Taking a deep breath, Cap walked over to Chet and put his hand on his shoulder. "I know you didn't mean to hurt John, Pal."
"No I didn't. I was just playing a joke."
Cap nodded. "You're right, but this time it backfired. I think you should stop the jokes for awhile."
Chet now stood and walked over to the window, watching them put Johnny into the ambulance. "You don't have to worry about that Cap," Chet said, softly. "The Phantom has just retired."
****
On the way to the hospital, Johnny began to regain consciousness. "Roy, turn off the sirens. I have a splitting headache."
"Take it easy, Johnny," Roy soothed. "That was some spill you took."
"What happened?" Johnny asked, confused.
"What's the last thing you remember?" Roy asked, as he rechecked Johnny's pupils.
"The last thing I remember is a pie, then everything gets fuzzy from there."
"Well, Johnny," Roy began, sitting back. "That was The Phantom paying you a visit."
Johnny put his hands to his head and moaned. Feeling the bandage, he pulled them away with disgust. "The Phantom strikes again," Johnny muttered.
"Well, if it's any consolation to you, Chet felt terrible about it. He really didn't want you to get hurt." Roy glanced out the window and saw the hospital getting closer. "Okay, Johnny, we're almost there."
Johnny just nodded his head.
As the ambulance backed up to the doors, Dr. Brackett met it outside. Seeing who it was, he looked confused. "I was wondering why I didn't see the squad. What happened?"
"Johnny was the unfortunate victim of The Phantom," Roy informed him, as he helped bring Johnny inside.
Dixie met the gurney in the hallway. "Room One," she said, pointing to the open door. As Johnny was being wheeled in, Dixie put her hand out to stop Roy. "What happened?"
Roy shook his head. "I'll explain later."
As Roy walked into the room, Dr. Brackett was just beginning his examination on Johnny. "Nurse, I want a full skull series," Brackett ordered.
The nurse nodded her head. "Yes, doctor." Walking to the phone, she ordered the tests that Brackett requested.
"Doc, when can I go home?" Johnny asked, sleepily.
Brackett smiled. "Well, Johnny, we will have the pleasure of seeing you all night tonight."
Johnny sat up, immediately wishing he didn't. "You mean I have to stay here?!" he shrieked.
Brackett placed his hand on Johnny's shoulder. "Johnny, you of all people know the rules." Guiding him back onto the mattress, Brackett looked up to see the x-ray attendant coming through the door. "I want a full series done."
As Brackett and Roy left the room, they could hear an audible groan, followed by a low growl. "Chet, when I get my hands on you..!"
Roy smiled as Brackett closed the door. "He's going to be okay, right doc?"
"Yes, Roy, he'll be fine." Glancing back at the door, Brackett continued. "Now if my staff can live with him for the next 24 hours, he'll be able to leave tomorrow."
"That's good to hear," Roy sighed.
Soon after the attendant left the room, Dixie joined Johnny inside. "How are you feeling?" she asked, smiling slightly.
Johnny rolled his eyes. "I could be better."
Dixie tried not to giggle, but lost the battle. "Uh, what exactly happened to you?"
"Chet, that's what happened to me!" Johnny began wringing his hands together. "The next time I see him I'm..."
"Now, come on, Johnny," Roy's voice filtered through the room. "You know he didn't do it on purpose."
Johnny spun his head to see where Roy was. "Roy, I don't care. The fact is that I'm here...and he's not!"
Roy walked over and put a comforting hand on Johnny's shoulder. "Just calm down. You'll look back at this and laugh one day."
"Not before I have a reason to smile," Johnny replied slowly.
Brackett walked into the room and found three pair of eyes staring at him. "Okay, before I say anything, what exactly hit you Johnny?"
"A pie, why?"
Before Brackett could finish, Roy filled in the blanks. "The pie hit him first, then Johnny hit the table."
Brackett nodded. "Now, this makes sense." Walking to Johnny, he continued, "Well, Johnny, you have a slight concussion and I'd like to keep you overnight for observation."
"Okay," Johnny sighed. "When can I go back to work?"
Giving his best sympathetic smile, Brackett answered, "Two days."
"TWO DAYS! For just a bump on the head?"
"I'd like to make sure your head is better before you go back," Brackett responded.
Glancing to Dixie, Brackett smiled. "Lets get him to his room."
Walking to the corner, Dixie produced a wheelchair. "Your chariot awaits."
"Yippee," Johnny scowled as he sat in the chair.
****
As Roy walked back into the station, he was greeted by the other fellows . "How's Johnny doing?" they all asked at once.
"He's fine," Roy smiled. "He'll be staying overnight, and then he just has to take it easy for the next two days."
Loud sighs filtered through the kitchen, followed by smiles.
Chet walked over to Roy. "Roy, is Johnny upset with me?"
"Well, Chet," Roy began, "you did hit him with that pie. Yes, he was upset."
Chet gave a sour look. "I didn't mean to hurt him, Roy."
Roy placed his hands on Chet's shoulder. "I know that, Chet; I'm sure Johnny knows that. Just give him time."
Chet nodded, "Yeah, well, he has all the time in the world." Shaking his head, Chet left the kitchen.
Roy walked over to Cap. "What was that all about?" he asked, confused.
"Well, Chet has retired The Phantom," Cap answered.
Roy glanced over to the doors. "That might be a good thing. Maybe now we'll have some peace and quiet."
Cap began to walk to his office. "You could be right, Roy...or not." Pausing at the door, Cap gave Roy some news he didn't want to hear. "Oh Roy, before I forget...I found out who your replacement is."
Roy wasn't sure he wanted to know. Based on Cap's reaction, he could pretty much guess. "Uh, don't tell me...Brice, right?"
"Yup," Cap smiled, and continued walking to his office.
Roy turned and looked at the door where Chet had just exited. He didn't have to say anything. The look on his face said it all.
****
Roy was happy that he had the next two days off; Brice was driving him up the wall. First they went on a late-night run that involved an hysterical woman. Brice lectured her on how, if she didn't get upset, they wouldn't have to be called. Now it was the run they were going to. Roy just knew this one was not going to go well at all.
Pulling up to a nicely decorated house, they saw nothing. As they exited the squad, they walked to the garage and saw a woman in her mid thirties. Her hand was stuck inside the engine, and she was pulling frantically at her wrist.
Approaching her, Roy could see she was visibly upset. "Well, what seems to be the trouble here?" he asked.
She continued to tug at her hand. "I can't get my hand from this engine," she grunted.
Brice looked down at her arm. "Well, we'll get you out," he stated, seriously. "That's why we're here."
She looked up, surprised at his honesty. "Well, you don't think I'm going to stay here do you?!"
"Oh, no ma'am," Roy interrupted Brice, before he could say something.
Brice began to check her hand. "Are you in any pain?"
"Well, my hand is beginning to hurt," she replied, not moving it anymore.
Looking down once more, Brice could see that her sleeve was holding her wrist against the fan belt. Reaching down, he tried to move it. When she yelled out in pain, he stopped.
"Sorry," Brice apologized. "I had to do that to see if I could get it out."
She just smiled a weak smile.
As Brice was trying to figure a way of getting her out, Roy went to get a splint. Walking back, he saw Brice just removing her hand from its pinned position.
"Does your hand hurt anymore?" Roy asked, setting down the splint.
"Yes, it's beginning to hurt more now," she answered.
"Well, it looks like a fracture. DeSoto, you splint it, while I call Rampart."
"A fracture!" she shrieked. "That can't be! I'm a receptionist! That's my only income!"
Roy gave a comforting smile. "Well, we don't know that for sure. They'll find that out with the x-rays." Slowly he began to splint her wrist, as Brice called it in.
"Rampart, this is squad 51..do you read?" Brice began.
"We read you 51, go ahead," Dr. Early responded.
"Rampart, we have a female with a fractured wrist. Hold for vitals."
As Roy got the vitals, Brice repeated them to doctor Early.
"51, splint the wrist and transport," Dr. Early ordered.
"10-4, Rampart...splint and transport," Brice repeated.
****
Pulling out of the hospital, Roy began to think of the girl they had just helped. "You know, I don't think she needed to know her wrist was fractured before we got to the hospital," Roy stated to Brice.
Brice just stared straight ahead. "Well, it was broken, correct?"
"Yes, it was..but that's not the point," Roy began impatiently. "There was no cause to tell her before we knew for sure."
"Well, I felt she had the right to know, so I guess we don't have anything more to discuss," Brice stated crisply.
Roy gripped the wheel harder. "A few more hours." He thought to himself.
****
Johnny walked to his locker, and began to dress. Just as he was finishing, he was joined by Roy.
"Morning Johnny, how are you feeling?" Roy asked, concerned.
Johnny turned and smiled at Roy. "Just fine, Roy. How's Chet?"
"Oh, he's still a little nervous over what you're going to do," Roy admitted.
"What I'm going to do?" Johnny pointed at himself. "What would I do?"
"That's what he's wondering," Roy said. "Come on, we have to charge the equipment before we get a run."
After they charged the equipment, Roy and Johnny joined the rest of the guys in the kitchen for coffee. "Morning!" Johnny called out cheerfully.
"Morning, Johnny," everyone said at once.
Chet slowly approached Johnny, a small smile on his face. "Good to have you back, pal."
"Thank you, Chet. It's good to be back," Johnny took his cup, and walked to the table to sit down.
"Look, Johnny, about what happened..." Chet began.
"Chet, I'm not mad," Johnny interrupted. "I know that nothing was done intentionally."
"I know," Chet sighed. "I just wanted to let you know that The Phantom will never harm you again." With that said, Chet walked from the kitchen.
"Chet.." Johnny called out, but Chet didn't return.
Turning to Roy, Johnny gave a confused look. "What was that all about?"
"Chet retired The Phantom," Roy filled in the blanks for him.
Johnny just shook his head.
****
Three weeks had passed and life at the station was tense. None of the guys seemed the same. As Johnny entered the vehicle bay, he found a familiar site; everyone getting ready for the day. Only this time, the mood was different.
"Morning everyone!" Johnny yelled out.
"Morning," they all mumbled.
"What's wrong with everyone?" Johnny complained. Silence was his reply.
Looking over his shoulder, Johnny could see Cap sitting in his office. "I'm going to find out what's going on," he mumbled to himself.
Approaching the room, Johnny knocked.
"Come in Johnny," Cap said, looking up.
"Cap, what is going on?" Johnny questioned. "I haven't seen things this stressful since we had our last inspection!"
Cap put his pen down and sat back in his chair. "Well, moral has been a bit off since The Phantom left."
"So I've noticed," Johnny stated. "You know, I never thought I'd hear myself say this...we need The Phantom back. I'm going to talk to Chet."
As he said that, he walked from the office in search of Chet. Johnny found him in the locker room sitting in front of his locker.
"Chet, you and I need to talk," Johnny said, shutting the door behind him.
"Look, I was just shining my shoes....see!?" Chet held his shoes up for proof. "Whatever happened, I didn't do it!"
"I didn't say you did anything," Johnny quickly pointed out. "I want to talk to you about The Phantom."
Chet stood. "Look, I told you....The Phantom is gone for good."
"Chet, can't you see that without some relief, this job is beginning to get to the guys?" Johnny pointed out the door for emphasis.
"No, I'm sorry. He stays gone!" Throwing his shoes into his locker, Chet stormed from the room. Johnny followed closely behind.
"Chet, will you listen to me please!?" Johnny pleaded.
Chet spun to face Johnny. "What do you want....another accident!"
Chet began to walk away, but Johnny put his hand on his shoulder stopping him. "Look, that was a mistake. It wasn't meant to happen," Johnny's voice was now softer. "I didn't realize till now how The Phantom helped out around here."
"Well, I guess we'll have to learn to live without him," Chet took Johnny's hand and dropped it from his shoulder.
"Chet, you're being...." Before he could continue, the tones sounded.
"Station 51, house fire...102 West Ramapo Road....1-0-2 West Ramapo Road...Time out...10:30."
"Station 51, KMG365," Cap said into the mic, before running to the engine.
****
Pulling up to the address, the house was partially engulfed in flames. Black smoke could be seen coming out of the top windows. Mike brought the engine to a stop, and jumped out to ready the lines. Surveying the situation, Cap began his orders.
"Kelly, Lopez, get a two and a half to the west side of the building. Gage, DeSoto, go inside and see if anyone is in there."
Nodding their heads in agreement, they all scrambled into action. Johnny and Roy carefully walked to the front door, and began to put their air masks on. Feeling for heat, Roy waited to open the door.
"Ready?" he called over his shoulder.
Johnny nodded, "Ready! Let's go!"
Entering the house, they could see it was empty; only a few boxes could be seen. "Let's check it out, just in case," Roy said to Johnny.
"Okay."
Walking through the house, they found that, indeed, it was empty. As they walked out, they joined Cap who was helping with the line.
"Cap, the house was empty," Roy informed him. "All we saw were boxes."
Cap looked to the sky. "Great...either they were moving in, or out."
"I didn't see any signs pulling up," Johnny offered.
"Moving in then," Cap turned and patted Chet on the shoulder. "Chet, you and Roy go to the other side of the house and get another line going. Johnny, you stay and help Marco."
"Okay, Cap," Chet agreed, handing the hose to Johnny.
They quickly had the blaze under control. Satisfied, Cap called it in. "LA, fire under control. Station 51 out one hour."
"10-4, 51," a voice confirmed.
"Okay, let's check for hot spots," Cap ordered. "Chet, you and Johnny go upstairs. Roy, you, Marco and I will stay down here."
"Okay Cap," all agreed at once.
Walking around the upstairs, Johnny checked for hot spots. Stepping onto an unstable part of the floor, he cautioned Chet. "Chet, stay towards the wall. This floor seems weak in the middle."
"Alright, Joh...." Chet couldn't continue; he fell through.
When Johnny heard the crackle of the falling floor, he spun quickly. "CHET!" Pulling out his H.T., he informed Cap of what happened. "Cap, Chet fell through the floor. Are you near his location?"
"No, but we will be!" Cap replied. "LA, we have a fireman down at this location. Respond an ambulance."
"10-4, 51. Ambulance has been dispatched."
Running for the stairs, Johnny quickly joined the rest. What they saw shocked them all. Chet was buried beneath a pile of rubble; all you could see were his feet. Quickly they began to dig.
"Chet, can you hear me?" Johnny called out.
A weak cough could be heard, followed by a low growl. "Yeah, I hear you....get me out of here!"
Finally, they had him unburied. Johnny carefully picked Chet up and carried him outside. Setting him down in the grass, he helped to remove his turnout coat. "Are you okay?" Johnny asked impatiently. "Are you hurt anywhere?"
Chet nodded. "Yeah, I'm fine. My head hurts, is all."
"Well, you just lay down so we can get your vitals," Roy said, pushing Chet down on the grass.
Johnny picked up the Biophone. "Rampart, this is squad 51, do you read?"
"Go ahead 51," Dr. Brackett responded.
"Rampart, we have a fireman injured," Johnny began. "He has small cuts and abrasions; no lacerations. Hold for vitals."
"Go ahead when ready, 51."
"Johnny, pulse is 100; B.P. is 120/80; respiration's are 14," Roy announced.
Johnny repeated the vitals and waited for a response. "51, transport as soon as possible," Brackett ordered.
"10-4, Rampart. Ambulance is arriving at scene now," Johnny stated, setting the Biophone down.
****
As Johnny helped wheel Chet through the door, Roy followed. They pushed him into room one and walked over to the nurse's station. Dixie joined them soon after.
"What's this I hear; The Phantom has been retired?" she asked, innocently.
"That's what he says," Johnny said, walking to pour himself some coffee.
Roy reached out and took the cup that Johnny had just poured. "He felt so bad about Johnny, that he stopped."
Johnny scowled. "Yeah, and life around the station hasn't been the same since."
As they were talking, they were joined by Dr. Brackett. "Johnny, some of your luck must have rubbed off on him. All he got out of that fall was a bump on the head and some cuts."
Johnny smiled. "Then he's okay!"
"He's fine," Brackett smiled. "I'm releasing him with orders to go home for the day."
"That's great!" Roy exclaimed. "Johnny, lets get back to the station and let everyone know."
"Right behind you, Roy," Johnny said, happily. "See you guys later!"
As Roy and Johnny walked out of view, Dixie began giggling. "When are those two going to admit they don't hate one another?"
"Dixie, that is the biggest mystery of them all," Brackett joked.
****
As Roy backed the squad into the vehicle bay, Johnny thought out loud. "Roy, I think we should do something to get The Phantom back."
Roy put the squad into park and gave a puzzled look. "Johnny, do you realize what your saying?" He still couldn't believe his ears. Johnny was the target of most of The Phantom's jokes.
Johnny gave a winning smile. "Roy, I know what I'm doing....trust me."
"Well, just don't come running to me when you get the rebound," Roy said, matter-of-factly.
As Roy and Johnny entered the kitchen, Johnny talked more about his plans. ".....it's gotta work!"
Roy gave a glance over his shoulder, before greeting his worried colleagues. "Chet is fine. Doc Brackett sent him home for the day."
"That's great!" Cap exclaimed, clapping his hands together.
Johnny chose that moment to tell everyone his plan. "Guys, I'd like to bring The Phantom back." Looking to Roy, he continued. "I'd like to perform some pranks on Chet...to bring him out of his shell."
Instead of getting a response, Johnny got the stares of unbelieving eyes. Finally, Marco spoke up. "Johnny, that's crazy!"
Johnny shook his head quickly. "No, listen...hasn't anyone noticed the mood of the station lately?"
"Well," began Mike, "things have been calmer around here."
"Yeah, too calm," Marco spoke up. "Johnny...I hate to admit this but...I think you're right. We need The Phantom back."
Getting everyone's approval, Johnny began his plan.
****
Chet came back feeling rested, but not better; he was still upset over what had happened with Johnny. As he entered the locker room, he was greeted by Marco.
"Morning Chet!" Marco called out.
Chet opened his locker and smiled at Marco. "Morning, Marco." Chet prepared to put his things into his locker but found it empty instead. Just as he was about to ask Marco what happened the tones sounded.
"Engine 51, trash fire....."
As the engine pulled out, Johnny walked quickly to the locker room. Going to his locker, he pulled out a plastic bag. Smiling widely, he emptied the bag's contents onto the bench. This should do the trick, Johnny thought to himself. Whistling low, Johnny began to fill Chet's locker.
****
As the engine backed into the vehicle bay, Chet noticed the squad missing. I wonder how long they've been gone? he thought. Jumping down from the engine, Chet went to fill his locker. Marco trailed behind. Opening his locker once more, he discovered it full again.
"Marco," Chet called over his shoulder. "Could you come here for a minute please?"
Marco walked over to Chet, fighting a smile. "What's wrong, Chet?"
"First my locker was empty," Chet pulled out one of his shirts and continued. "Now it's full again."
"Chet, I think you're losing it," Marco smiled. "Come on...lets go get some coffee."
"I'll...I'll be right there, pal," Chet stammered, waving over his shoulder.
As Marco left the room, he walked past Johnny. Giving him a "high five," he walked into the kitchen waiting for part two of Johnny's plan.
As Chet walked into the kitchen, he still had a look of confusion on his face. "Morning everyone," he mumbled.
"Morning, Chet," all cheerfully said.
Going to the cupboard, Chet paused before opening the door.
"What's the matter, Chet?" Johnny asked.
"Oh, nothing." Chet did not turn; instead, he slowly opened the door. When nothing came out, Chet breathed a sigh of relief. Pouring his coffee, Chet's hands began to shake; just the thought of Johnny's revenge made him nervous.
Johnny slowly walked up to Chet and placed his hand on his shoulder. "Chet, what's wrong with you this morning?"
Chet jumped, spilling his coffee on his shirt. "AAHHHH!" Jumping back, he dropped his cup, shattering it on the floor.
"What is with you this morning?" Johnny asked, taking Chet's arm before he began to clean the mess up. "Go change. We'll clean this up."
"Thanks, Johnny," Chet quickly walked from the room.
The rest of the guys soon joined Johnny in cleaning up the mess.
"What is with him?" Mike questioned. "I've never seen him so jumpy."
Johnny began to answer, when Chet came back into the room. "Guys, strange things have been happening today. I can't figure it out."
Standing from gathering the glass pieces, Johnny gave a slight smile. "Chet, what are you talking about?"
Chet sat down at the table and put his fist under his chin. "Well...when I came in this morning, my locker was empty." Chet glanced up and looked for a reaction. Not getting one, he continued. "We went on that run; came back..and now it's full."
Roy walked to Chet and put his hand on Chet's shoulder. "You must have filled it and forgotten that you did."
"No Roy, I didn't...I couldn't have...we...." Chet couldn't continue. The tones sounded, breaking his sentence.
"Station 51...."
****
The rest of the day, the guys continued to pull pranks on Chet: hiding his pen and then producing it without his knowledge; emptying his coffee cup before he could have a chance of drinking it. Cap even pulled a prank by making Chet think the washroom was dirty when it was spotless. Finally, Johnny thought Chet suffered enough. He pulled him aside and talked to him.
"Chet, these things that have been happening," Johnny began. "It was us that were doing it."
Chet gave Johnny a disbelieving look. "Johnny, you're nuts! I know it wasn't you guys that did that stuff! I must be losing it!"
"No, Chet, look....this morning when your locker was empty. I filled it when you got that run," Johnny's voice began to rise. "Did you think it filled itself?"
"Johnny, you mean to tell me..." Chet glanced around at the crowd of fellow firefighters that began to creep up. Lowering his voice, he continued. "...You mean to tell me this whole miserable day was you guys?"
Johnny looked to the floor. "Yes, but we did it for your own good."
"My own good?!" Chet became furious. "What gives you the right to do that to me!?"
"Chet," Roy spoke up. "We just wanted to help you get over hurting Johnny....to bring The Phantom back."
Chet spun to face Roy and the rest. "Oh!..so you thought that by fooling me, that it would help?"
"Yeah," they all mumbled together.
Chet didn't answer; he just stormed off into the bunk house.
Johnny joined the rest of the guys, with a look of sorrow on his face. "Roy, do you think we helped him any?"
"I don't know, Johnny. I guess we'll know in time."
****
Things seemed to be going smoother around the station. Everyone was joking back and forth once again. Chet seemed better, the runs they went on were all uneventful, and the mood was back to its original tone. Finally, after a busy day, they all got a full night sleep. The following morning the test tones went off.
"Stations 51; 34; Battalion 14...these are test tones...Time 7:00."
"Station 51, KMG365," Cap said sleepily into the mic.
Walking from his bunk, Cap could see that everyone was up. Together they walked to the kitchen. After breakfast and coffee, they got everything ready for the next shift. While Chet and Marco did the dishes, Roy showered. Soon after he was done, Johnny walked into the washroom to do the same.
"So, Chet, what are your plans for the next two days?" Roy inquired.
"Oh, I think I'll just stay at home," Chet replied with a sly smile.
"Chet, you're up to something," Marco accused.
"Who, me?" Chet pointed to himself and smiled wider, all the while walking slowly to the door.
Roy glanced to Marco and followed Chet. "What are you up to Chet?"
Chet put his finger to his lips. "SHHHH. I have to..."
"AAAAAHHHH!!!!"
Chet clapped his hands together and ran for the washroom. Roy and Marco followed close behind. What they saw when they got inside made them all laugh hysterically. There was Johnny, standing in front of the mirror; a look of horror splayed across his face.
"CHET...WHAT...DID...YOU...DO?!?" Johnny's hands were now on his head, covering his hair, which was now a nice shade of blue.
Roy walked into the shower and retrieved the bottle of shampoo. Glancing inside, he saw the remains of the blue dye that had caused Johnny's different hair color. "Well, Johnny," Roy began; trying not to laugh, "..you asked for The Phantom; I guess you got him."
Walking to Johnny, Chet tried to stop his laughing. "I thought over what you said to me after we went on that last run the other day. I guess I agreed with what you said."
Johnny slowly turned and glared at Chet. "Why...my...hair?"
"The Phantom never releases his secrets," Chet replied. Slowly he walked out of the washroom; whistling as he left.
"Roy," Johnny sighed, "when I get an idea in my head..."
"Yeah," Roy grunted.
"Stop me before I say it."
I want to give a special thank you to Jo. Thank you for not letting me give up on this story! You're the best! :~)
"...and this is the pranks I get" ©1999 Bea Cook. "Emergency!" and its characters © Mark VII Productions, Inc. All rights reserved. No infringement of any copyrights or trademarks is intended or should be inferred. This is a work of fiction, and any similarity to actual persons or events is purely coincidental.
NOTICE: The layout and graphics on this page are the property of Two Chickies Fan Fiction. They may NOT be used on any other fan fiction site and any such use consitutes HTML theft. We urge you not to support any site that engages in such tactics, and to report any such usage to Marcia or Tangee.