Page 5 of Code Trauma

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Holly found the emergency department short-staffed, so no one minded that she wanted to care for her friend.

In room six, she checked the IV bag hanging on the pole. “Almost empty, Mr. Carson,” she told the man in the bed. “I’ll have to get another one.” That normally wasn’t part of her job, but she didn’t mind. The walk would allow her a few moments to think about the threats she’d received and what else she needed to do about them.

He nodded. “It’s really good of you to come see me. I know you’re busy.”

“Aw, what kind of friend would I be if I didn’t check in on my favorite drummer?”

He chuckled, but it was a weak sound. She squeezed his hand. “Get some rest. We need to get you well and back up on the stage at church.”

“Indeed we do. Thank you, my dear.”

“Of course.”

He closed his eyes, and she said a heartfelt prayer for God to touch him and heal him.

“Holly, I didn’t realize you’d be down here today.”

Holly whirled to see the doctor she always did her best to avoid. Garrett Mann. Unfortunately, avoiding people in the emergency room was basically impossible, and he’d caught up with her. “Yep. The place is super short-staffed, and I told Nick I didn’t mind helping out.” Nick, the head doctor of the ER.

“Well, it’s good to see you.” He winked at her like they shared a secret. They didn’t. “How’s your patient?” he asked. “I think I’ve treated him before. Seizures, right?”

“Right. He’s doing fine right now. He was a bit dehydrated in addition to the laceration on his forehead. We’re waiting on a room to open up to monitor him for any more seizures. If that’ll be all, Dr. Mann, I’ve got to head to base.” She patted Mr. Carson’s hand and turned to make her escape.

Garrett stepped in front of her, blocking her way. “It’s Garrett, not Dr. Mann. It’s good of you to help out. Things can get a little overwhelming. The extra pair of hands is always welcome.”

“Not a problem.”

She started to head to the next room, but he stopped her once more with a hand on her arm. “What’s the rush?”

Holly shot him a tight smile and shrugged him off. “He’s not the only patient,Doctor. I need to replace this IV bag then head to base.” The base for the medical flight team was located in one of the wings of the hospital.

“That’s what nurses are for.”

She barely refrained from rolling her eyes. “Iama nurse, remember? Anyway, I’m here to help, so that’s what I plan to do.”

“What about lunch later?”

“I already have lunch plans.” At least it was true.

“Why doesn’t that surprise me?”

The tone in his voice sent shivers up her spine. Was he the one who’d sent the threatening notes telling her she needed to leave? But why pursue her if he wanted her gone? Or did he think she’d come running to him for help?

Ha. Not likely.

She stepped past him, and this time he didn’t stop her.

Once out of the room, she let out the breath she’d been holding and aimed herself toward the supply closet.

Another nurse greeted her with a smile. “Hi, Holly, no emergency flights today?”

“Hi Rachel.” Rachel Vickers, a respiratory therapist who was often in the ER. She didn’t seem to have a problem with Dr. Mann’s attentions—even went out of her way to flirt with the man. Rumor had it that they’d dated for a while. So why didn’t he leave Holly alone and focus on someone who’d welcome his advances? She realized that Rachel was staring at her, waiting for a response. “Oh, sorry. I’m a little scattered today, but no flights yet. Headed to base shortly.” Holly shook off the creepy sensation the doctor always left her with and smiled at the pretty woman.

Rachel frowned. “Tough patient?”

“Tough doctor,” Holly muttered.

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