Page 6 of Code Trauma

“Sorry?”

Holly forced a smile. “Nothing. You look like you’ve been running. Are you okay?”

“Just late and trying to catch up.”

“Are you here to work with Mr. Lyles?”

“I am.”

“He was sleeping when I checked in on him earlier, so poke gently.”

Rachel laughed. “He can resemble a bear, can’t he?” Mr. Lyles was a “frequent flyer.” He had chronic asthma and didn’t always take his meds like he was supposed to. He also didn’t like breathing treatments. Rachel nodded to the room. “Is that Dr. Mann?”

“Yes, it sure is.”

“Oh good, I have a question for him.” Rachel stepped around her. “See you later, Holly. Hello, Dr. Mann ...” Rachel’s voice faded as the door shut behind her.

Holly sighed and headed for the supply room, only to be stopped by Raina Price, the paramedic who was often on the chopper with her and Penny. “Raina, what’s up?”

“I was looking for you.”

“Well, you found me. I’m headed to get an IV bag. Walk with me?”

“Sure.” She started down the hall once more. Raina fell into step beside her. “Isn’t that something nurses do?”

Holly cut her friend a sideways glance, and Raina grinned at her. “Sorry, I heard some of the exchange between you and Dr. Mann.”

“He’s a piece of work.”

“I avoid him.”

“You’re not the only one. And besides, Iama nurse.”

Raina stuck her hands in her jacket pockets. “Penny said something was going on with you. You okay?”

“I’m fine.” And she was fine with Penny sharing with Raina. They were closer than sisters. When one hurt or was in trouble, the others came to the rescue. Or at least tried to. “Just some weird notes. Threatening notes, actually.”

“What do they say?”

“Stuff like I don’t belong here and if I know what’s good for me, I’ll leave. Nothing like someone wants to kill me, but someone definitely doesn’t want me around.”

“When did all that start?”

“A couple of weeks ago.”

“But you’ve been here for ages. Why start wanting you to leave now?”

“Who knows? I’ve reported it to the sheriff and hospital security, so I’m not sure what else I can do.”

“Tell Holt? Andy?”

“Like I told Penny. Not yet.”

They arrived at the supply closet door, and Raina checked her watch. “I’ve got to go clock in. Are you going to be all right?”

“I’ll be fine.”

“Okay, I’ll see you when you come down to base.”

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