Page 82 of Rookie Days

“She’s fine,” Ellie confirmed. “But another doctor has been attacked.”

Quinn’s expression turned ferocious.

“Attacked?” she prompted. “Is she still alive?”

“She is, though badly hurt apparently. Janet said she thinks her colleague was ambushed in front of her apartment building this morning.”

“Close to her home and in broad daylight.” Quinn sneered aggressively. “If that’s our guy again, he’s stepping it up.”

“Getting careless.” Ellie hit her fist into the palm of her own hand. “And that’s how we’ll get him. I’m going to the hospital, see if I can speak to the survivor. Coming, Lieutenant?”

“Let’s go,” Quinn approved.

???

Janet did not get emotional on the job. Not ever. Period. She was sometimes criticized for her straightforward manner, and what some perceived as a general lack of empathy. It was true that she never thought twice about putting someone firmly in their place, or letting them know when their performance was sub-standard, as with the young anesthesiologist. But a majority were grateful and eager for her feedback. Naturally gifted, and a born hustler as well, Janet stood heads and shoulders above the rest when it came to skills and performance. Many aspired to train under her, even if they knew that it would be the medical equivalent of Navy Seal training. Few were allowed to see behind the layers of attitude that she projected, or they would be surprised. Janet cared. Deeply, and painfully sometimes, about her patients and colleagues. She just happened to know the price of uncontrolled feelings and emotions, and conducted herself accordingly. Now, briefly alone with her latest charge, a colleague that she both liked and respected, she took her limp hand in hers.

“Don’t give up, okay, darling?” She whispered close to her ear. “I’m here, Susan. I’m with you. Rest now and gather your strength. You’re going to be okay; I promise.”

She squeezed her fingers and allowed herself to deeply feel the words she’d just spoken. Janet developed strong bonds with her patients. She was connected and committed to them. She also believed that they could feel her emotions on some level, so she beamed a lot of love and affection toward the unconscious Dr Elliott.

“Other women are depending on you to come back, Susan,” she murmured. “Come back and tell us who did this to you, and I promise my friends will catch the bastard.”

“Dr Fox?” Janet looked up to find a female security officer at the door. “Did you want me?”

“Yes, thank you, Officer Miller. I want you to please stay in here with Dr Elliott. Allow no one in with her except for me and Nurse Edwards.”

“Yes, doctor.”

“Let me know if any visitors show up.”

“You got it.”

As the tall and fit-looking guard positioned herself squarely in front of the door, Janet made her way to the central nurses’ station. Dreaming of a cup of black coffee and a fresh blueberry muffin to go with it. Why not? For sure, she’d earned herself an extra shot of caffeine and carbs this morning. Though it would delay her on her quest for a reward, the sight of Quinn and Ellie standing together at the desk was welcome, and even more of a mood booster.

“Well, well,” Janet declared, smiling in satisfaction. “If this isn’t Lewiston’s finest, come to brighten my day. Good morning, officers.”

chapter 27

The two cops turned as one. Quinn, with her Cross-Fit physique, surfer-blond hair, and intense blue eyes. Ellie, who was leaner, rangier, though just as intense in demeanor. Janet did not miss a flash of heat in her liquid grey eyes when they locked onto hers. Instantly, she felt her thighs turn to water. Unbelievable… And so good, too... Ellie had that look about her. Reassuring with a hint of lethal. It was the air of a woman who would fight for you, and give her all to protect you. Janet had made it clear to her that she could take care of herself. Though it was true, it did not stop her appreciating Ellie’s warrior vibe. It was beyond alluring. What a fantastic specimen of a woman. And she’s all mine... Janet licked her lips at the thought. Ellie grinned in reaction.

“Okay,” Quinn grunted. “When you two are done with the amorous staring, perhaps you could give us an update on the situation, Dr Fox.”

“Drop the attitude, Lieutenant Wesley, and I’ll be delighted to do so,” Janet answered with a smirk. Quickly though, she led them to an empty waiting room and out of earshot. “It’s Dr Elliot. ER surgeon, and a good friend of mine.”

“I’m really sorry.” Ellie gently touched her arm.

“Thanks, babe.” Janet nodded gratefully and also accepted the cup of water that Quinn got her from a dispenser. It was her friend’s way of saying the same thing, she knew. “Susan was attacked in front of her building. Hit from behind when she was walking to her car, and dragged into the bushes.”

“That’s his MO,” Ellie stated, and now she sounded like a cop. Like a hunter, sharp and intent. “The victim told you this? Sorry – Your friend?”

“Yes.” Janet flashed a brief smile at the instant correction. It was nice of Ellie. “She was barely conscious when the ambulance brought her in, but—”

“I need to talk to her, Jan.”

“I know, but I’m afraid you can’t.”

“Why not?“

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