Page 19 of Take Me to the Valley

“I will be here. Just call me, and we can set up a video call,” Cody says, walking back in.

They give me an awkward hug and leave as Rick and the nurse walk in.

“I called the Chief so he could let the guys know you are up. He's been processing a ton of paperwork and getting Calvin booked,” Rick says.

“Did you guys catch him?” I ask.

“Yep. Calvin was being held until we found out how you did to see what his official charges would be. I’m sure he will be happy to have his charges dropped from murder to assault of a police officer on top of all the drug charges,” Rick says.

“I'm glad you got him,” I say.

“Well, I'm heading out. I have a ton of paperwork too. Calista, you got the Chief's number. Keep him updated, yeah?” Rick says.

“I will,” she says, hugging Rick.

“Okay, pause the shop talk. How are we feeling Detective?” The nurse asks after taking my vitals.

“Like I’ve been shot.”

“Well, you are due for more pain meds, so I will go get those. Did they tell you about your injuries?” she asks.

“No,” I say with a slight cough being as my throat is so dry.

I don't even have to ask Calista if she has the water there because the straw is already to my lips.

“Well, you were lucky. Even though you were shot, it missed any major veins. You did have quite a bit of blood loss. After you were rushed into surgery, they removed the bullet and repaired your shoulder. It will take some time to heal and then some physical therapy, but you are expected to make a good recovery. We will know more once the swelling is down. Also, you have a sprained wrist and a sprained ankle, lots of bruises, and a mild concussion. You have a long road ahead of you,” she finishes.

“How long will I be here?”

“A few days, most likely. We want to make sure you are healing and that there are no adverse effects from the concussion. When you are released, you won't be able to be on your own. For the first few weeks, you will need help because you can’t use crutches, and you can't walk on your leg.”

Great, I can't even think about making those arrangements considering how much my head hurts right now.

The nurse leaves, and Calista comes back to my side, taking my hand again.

“Calista can stay with you when you get out,” Cody says.

“What?” The thought of Calista in my place sets my head spinning.

“She is experienced at things this. Skye likes her, so that's not a problem. You know she will love having another female around.Even better, Calista knows what to watch for, so the chances they will let you out earlier are higher,” Cody says.

“I'm happy to do it. The distillery can wait,” Calista says.

“I don't want to be a burden.”

“You aren't. You are family and this is what family does,” Cody says.

I just nod as the nurse comes back in and gives me a dose of what I assume are pain meds through the IV.

“I’m going to go to your place, get a bag together for Skye, and check on my brothers. I will be back tomorrow. Let me know if you want me to bring you anything,” Calista says.

“Make sure to grab Skye's unicorn stuffie. She can't sleep without it. Though she will try hard to convince you that she needs to wear a fancy dress to school. She doesn't. Jeans are fine,” I say.

“We got this. This isn't our first rodeo with her. She will be fine, I promise,” Cody says before turning to Calista. “Can you stay a little longer? I have a few calls to make.”

“No problem, take your time,” she says.

“You sure? Do you need anything?” Cody asks.

---