Page 9 of Stables

Maggie’s eyebrows raise. “Ready for me to call Wade? Or are you going to be a white knight?” A smile tugs at the corner of her mouth.

My mustache twitches. “I can only do so much.” It wouldn’t be the first time in my life I’ve taken justice into my own hands.

But those skeletons are best left in a closet. I don’t want any more.

Although…getting the chance to seek revenge on Charlotte’s behalf sounds appealing.

Charlotte. She’s beautiful beneath the bruises.

Fuck.

“I’ve called radiology. Can Libby come in to stay with her afterwards?” Maggie is an expert at changing subjects, which I appreciate.

“That’s fine. We’re empty besides her. Guess it was the friend who ran him off? That girl deserves an award.” Would it be strange if I offered cash?

Probably highly inappropriate, but I’m tempted.

Maggie snorts. “You don’t know Libby. That’s tame for her. I’m surprised she didn’t spray his ass with buckshot.” She turns away with a snicker and starts tapping on the screen of her tablet.

I should do my charting too, while Charlotte is in x-ray.

Why do I keep thinking of her by her name? It’s always been a bed number.

Easier to keep track.

It’s less personal.

When I push the door to my office closed, I lean back in my chair and rub my palms over my face with a groan.

I can’t save the world.

Mason had the right idea when Lori and Sophia were taken. He eliminated the problem.

Well. He and Ford swore it was an “accident.”

Of course it was.

I like to think I’d have done the same. Remembering the fear in Sophia’s eyes after they were rescued keeps me up at night.

My niece and sister-in-law were both threatened and kidnapped. Meanwhile, I sat in Helena with Sawyer playing administrator on a contract bid.

What kind of man does that?

It’s like I have an itch under my skin.

So, I’m going to do something.

Dragging out my phone, I pull up Sheriff Wade Rowland.

“Dix? How’s it going?” Wade answers before it rings.

There are perks to all growing up in a small town.

“Wade? I think I need you to come down and take a statement. I have a D.V. patient.”

With big blue eyes and hair the color of mesquite.

Charlotte.