Page 45 of Red, White, and Ewe

"A few hours. They want to make sure the bullet didn't graze any tendons." She pointed to the waiting area. "If you will all have a seat, the doctor will come out and see you when he's finished."

Cinnamon sank onto the cushioned chair. The wall lined with vacant chairs Shane, Scarlet, and Grady all occupied. The television played a comedy, the sound barely turned up. Photos of flowers and babies covered the white walls, as if trying to bring joy to those waiting for news.

Kaleb's injuries weren't life threatening, the nurse assured them, yet Cinnamon still wrung her hands in her lap. If only they hadn't gone into the coffee shop. He wouldn't be having surgery this very moment. Guilt penetrated through her fear.

"I'm so sorry, you guys."

"What for?" Shane asked, leaning around Scarlet. "You didn't shoot Kaleb."

"I suggested we get coffee before going back to the farm." Moisture burned behind Cinnamon's eyelids. "If we hadn't, he'd be fine."

"If you hadn't, who knows what would’ve happened to the people in the shop or how much money Mayson would've lost?" Grady countered, patting her hand. "None of this is your fault."

"Thank you." Cinnamon exhaled a long breath. "I suppose that's true."

"It is true." Scarlet grasped Cinnamon's hand. "We're glad no one else got hurt. I'm sure Kaleb is, too. He didn't have to go barreling into the office, but if he didn't, who knows how long they would’ve been held hostage?"

"I still can't believe this happened in Winter Springs." Cinnamon ran her hand through her hair. "I overheard the officers say the men were just passing through town and needed money. They were going to hit the bank but thought it'd be easier to rob a coffee shop."

"They both had guns?" Grady's brow knitted together.

"Yeah." Cinnamon shifted on the chair, releasing Scarlet's hand. "I don't know anything else about that, though. I should've asked more questions."

"You had enoughgoingon." Shane shook his head. "Don't beat yourself up."

"Thanks." Cinnamon leaned her head against the wall and closed her eyes. They'd prayed before they left for the hospital, but she kept an open dialogue with God. Guide the doctor's hands. Remove the bullet. Heal him quickly and be with Mayson and all those who have suffered because of the actions of these men, Lord.

Voices forced Cinnamon's eyes open. Harper, Noel, and Amy entered the room, concern written on their faces.

"Any news?" Harper took the empty seat across from them.

Scarlet filled them in while Cinnamon continued to pray.

"Do youguysmind if I pray?" Noel glanced around the room. At their encouragement, they all bowed their heads as Noel's voice filled the air.

Peace settled over Cinnamon, as if the Lord Himself descended and held them all in His hands.

Chapter Seventeen

A beep sounded in the distance. Kaleb groaned and tried to stretch. A searing pain shot through his arm. He winced and pried open his eyes.

The most beautiful sight greeted him. Cinnamon hunched over the side of his bed, her arms cradling her head. Long lashes swept across her rosy cheeks. Blond hair pulled back in a ponytail revealed her long and slender neck.

A throat cleared on the other side of the bed. Kaleb turned his head. Grady sat in thechair,his hair mussed. Lines creased his forehead.

"Mornin'." Grady whispered and stretched his legs out in front of him.

"Water," Kaleb croaked.

Grady stood and poured a cup. The cool liquid ran down Kaleb’s parched throat. "How're you feeling?"

"Like I've been shot." Kaleb moved and winced. "How long have you been here?"

"Since your surgery." Grady sat back down. "You gave us all a scare."

"Why?" Kaleb shifted, careful not to move his arm.

"The doctor said your heart stopped during surgery." Grady's forehead creased once more. "They were able to revive you and run some tests. Apparently, it was a fluke, but they want you to see the doctor in three months for a stress test."

---