Page 133 of Stables

Helping her down from her seat, I lead her past the admitting desk, nodding at Erin who watches us wide eyed.

Dr. Melvin is standing at the counter, flipping through a chart when she spots me. “Doctor McCullough? What happened?” She gestures to Maggie with a fast wave. “Get them into trauma one and two.”

“Gunshot wounds. I’m pretty sure mine is a through and through. Check her first.” I help Char climb onto the gurney.

“Doctor McCullough, can you sit over here?” Maggie points to the stretcher a few feet away.

“Nope. I’m not moving.” My toe snags one of the rolling stools and I drop onto it, still holding Char’s hand.

Maggie smiles. “No problem, doc.”

It doesn’t take long getting fully checked. They even did a confirmation blood test on Char’s pregnancy.

We’re waiting on our x-ray results to come back when my phone dings.

I glance at the picture, and can’t hide my grin when I hand it to Char.

“Oh my god! He found Whiskey!” She vibrates on the bed in excitement. “I can’t believe it, I thought she was gone for sure!” Her tearful giggle is music to my ears.

Before I pocket my cell, I take another look at Blue and Wade standing on either side of the strawberry roan, both holding their thumbs up in celebration.

Damn, I’m lucky to have friends like them.

“Dixon? Do you think I could ask Libby if she can go to Vegas? I don’t think Paisley would handle us both being gone for that long, but maybe Libby would…you know…watch her so we could have some time to ourselves?” Her thumb moves over mine.

The bandage over her eye makes me want to promise the moon. “Anything you want. She can be a witness.”

Hell, I’ll ask Blue and Wade.

I would see if Mason wants to go, but after watching Lori run in and out of the bathroom for the last few weeks, I doubt either of them want to travel.

It used to boggle me how Mason acted with either of his wives. He’d always be quick to put their needs before his own.

I get it now.

I owe him an apology.

“Blue said he’d go. Wade can’t make it, but offered to let Blue borrow his shotgun for the ceremony.” My stitches in my shoulder pull when I lean up to kiss her.

“Why would Blue need that?” Her brows furrow before they raise. “Ohh. Funny guy.” She smirks, shaking her head as she looks back at her phone. “Libby said she’s game.” Her cheeks flush pink. “Amongst other things.”

Dr. Martin swings the curtain open. “Doctor McCullough, you know I have to report all gunshot wounds?”

“Yep, go ahead and let Wade know. He’s already aware of the situation.” When I stand, I have to lean against Char’s stretcher to let the light headedness pass.

I might have to take it easy for a day or two.

“Well, you’re both clear to go then. Congratulations.” Dr. Martin smiles broadly. “One thing, the HCG levels were quite high for the gestational length you indicated.” She winks before turning on her heel.

My stomach drops and my hands get sweaty.

Unbelievable.

Using my good hand, I cup Char’s jaw into a hard kiss, grinning at her confused look.

“What does that mean?” Her tone is full of concern.

Leading her from the ER, I hold the exit for her to step through. “We need to schedule an ultrasound. That result means there’s a chance of multiples.”

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