The Past, page 28
“I’m sorry, Paige, but you’re hurt bad. Let me help you up. I want to see what happened to you.”
She dropped the gun. Josh grabbed her by her good arm and lifted her to her feet. He took her into the bathroom, closed the seat, and sat her on the toilet. He flipped the light switch on and examined her wrist.
“This is not good. We need to get you to a hospital.”
“Get a towel and wrap it tight. The police. We need to call them. God, that sounds weird. Normally, I’m the police.” She felt woozy.
He pulled her to her feet and took care with her wrist. His hand never left hers as his other took his phone out and punched 911. He asked for an ambulance and reported the dead body.
“Let’s go outside and wait. We can’t disturb the crime scene.” She pointed toward the door. Her hand still shook, and she couldn’t seem to stop.
He helped her stand and kept his arm around her shoulder while he guided her through the trashed room. Tony’s Escalade was parked nearby so he seated her inside. She began to shiver.
“I don’t like this. You need treatment for shock, and your bleeding still hasn’t stopped.” Josh stood beside the open car door and rubbed her shoulder.
After Vern and Trin arrived several minutes later, Josh walked over to meet them. Her mind in a fog, she watched. They talked and nodded several times.
Trin moved in her direction. “We lost communication with you. Somehow, your bugs got taken out when he drove off so quickly. Damn it, Paige.”
She attempted to lift her lips into a smile but couldn’t force them. “I’m still in one piece. Better than last . . . time.”
“Don’t remind me. At least I didn’t need to revive you.” Trin looked down at the blood pooling in her lap.
“Son of a bitch,” he yelled at Josh.
She couldn’t distinguish words, only noise. Her vision blurred. Her head drooped. She felt herself fall.
Josh climbed into the front. The FBI agent dragged her into the back seat. The Escalade peeled out from the parking lot.
“I’ve found where she’s bleeding the worst. I’ll continue to keep pressure on it, but you’d better hurry. She’s already turned white,” Trin said.
He stomped the pedal to the floor. Tires screamed under the strain as he took a corner on two wheels, but Paige remained passed out.
“Is she still alive?” he asked.
“I’ve got a faint pulse.” Trin kept his finger close to her carotid.
“If she doesn’t live, I’m gonna take your hide for this. How could you not protect her?” He remained mad at himself because he failed her. Those damned teens slowed him down.
“I don’t know how she lost both trackers we put on her. Who could figure? How did you find her when we couldn’t?”
“Some follow their targets better than others.” He absolutely didn’t want to go there, so he said nothing more.
He pulled under the portico of an emergency room and crammed the gearshift into park. He grabbed the handle and opened the back door to help Trin with Paige. He carried her through the door, back into the emergency stalls, and straight to a doctor. “You’ve got to get blood into her now, before she bleeds to death. Her wrist has a compound fracture.”
The doctor nodded toward a bed. He laid her down while Trin walked back to the admittance area. He rolled Paige onto her stomach and pulled the top down over her shoulder. He had a quick problem to fix.
Before the doctor returned, he took his knife from his cargo pants pocket and cut a tiny slit near the chip’s edge on her back. With the blade’s dull side, he pushed the tracking device from under her skin and put both in his leg pocket. He lifted the peasant blouse to cover his handiwork and swiftly turned her body face up.
A second later the doctor returned with nurses who scurried around Paige.
After Trin settled with admittance, he and Josh both paced in the small waiting area.
“She better make it. You don’t know Hank, but he’ll make our lives a living hell if she doesn’t. Surely, they can get a transfusion into her in time.” He chewed his bottom lip as he moved again. He stared over at Josh. “How the hell did you find her when we couldn’t?”
Josh shrugged. “Better tracker I guess.”
He didn’t like the idea that Josh did anything better, but his envy came from his own attraction to Paige. He could see the way Josh hovered over her. The concern on the actor’s face struck him as far more than friendly. They both desired the same detective from Tulsa. Who wouldn’t be drawn to her? She had everything a man could want.
He was too old for her, but Josh wasn’t a good choice either. He chased skirts and lived in Hollywood. He’d be damned if he’d move over and let him have her. Besides, something seemed off about the guy. Better tracker, my ass.
Paige opened her eyes. A strange man gazed down at her. He wore a white lab coat. His name tag read Dr. Pierce. They’d gotten her to the hospital in time. Goose bumps climbed up her arms, and cold settled into her bones.
“You may experience symptoms of shock. Do you feel chilly? We can add another blanket.”
She nodded. Her mouth tasted cottony. She didn’t think she could speak.
“We stopped the bleeding. You needed several units of blood, but we fixed the problem. In the morning, we’ll go in and rebuild your wrist. I’ve called an expert. He works on our professional athletes here. He’s the best.” He spread another white blanket over her.
She nodded again.
“I’ll let your friends in. They’re pacing out there in the waiting room.” He grinned.
She gave a lopsided smile, and the doctor turned to leave.
She saw Josh first because he hurried into the room. Trin arrived behind him.
“Are you okay?” they both said in unison.
Finally, she moved her mouth to speak, but it came out like a croak. “Yes.”
“You don’t sound good. Should I get the doctor back?” Trin looked hesitant before he moved several steps closer to her.
“My mouth’s dry is all.” Her teeth began to chatter.
“Do you feel any better?” Josh asked.
“I’m cold, but okay. The shock, I think. A fancy doc will fix my arm in the morning.”
“What do you know about him? We want only the best,” Josh said.
“He’s supposed to work on the best professional athletes here. Doc didn’t give his name.”
“I’ll check him out,” Trin said as his phone rang. He gave several clipped responses and glanced back at her. “The police want to talk to you, but I headed them off. Tomorrow’s soon enough.”
“You’ll find the guy’s confession on a recorder in the purse I carried. Ben McCall didn’t kill anyone.”
Trin nodded and got up to walk out the door.
“I’m so sorry. I never dreamed you’d get hurt this bad.” Josh took her good hand in his. He leaned in close and searched her eyes.
“Hey, I’ve been through worse. I’ll survive.”
“If I’d protected you better—”
“If you’d protected me better? What do you mean? Trin and Buck had my back, not you.” For the first, time she questioned how he’d found her in the motel.
Ben stepped out of the Men’s Central Jail, onto Bauchet Street, and squinted in the blinding sunshine. His eyes adjusted to the dazzling light slowly after two weeks inside the dank hellhole behind him. He’d feared he would never see sunlight again and still couldn’t believe Paige had managed to free him. He could never repay her for his freedom, but there was nothing he wouldn’t do for her now. All she had to do was ask.
His whole attitude lifted once Caroline honked the horn of a nearby black Escalade. She’d come to get him. He hadn’t known if she would, but Paige needed to skin his hide for the way he wanted Caroline. He should step away from the gorgeous redhead, but he didn’t think he could.
The warm sun comforted his back after two weeks inside. When he opened the door, he noticed her shy smile. She looked like perfection to his eyes. He didn’t get this goofy often—like never.
He needed to pull it together, or she would run for the hills. In that instant, he knew he didn’t want her to run. He wanted a future with this woman. To make a family with this beautiful creature seemed as right as his next breath. He’d never thought he’d get a chance with anyone who mattered like she did.
He wanted to make a bargain with God to not take her away. Mostly, he figured his mother still prayed for him, or he’d never have met Caroline. The issue with Paige still loomed. She would be pissed at him, and he owed her so much for what she’d done.
“Where are we headed?” He couldn’t keep the smile from his lips.
“I’ll let you choose. I expected your release yesterday. What took them so long?”
“In jail, the wheels of justice don’t move at all, especially in reverse. I’m just glad to be out. I knew Paige was the only one who could help me. I need to thank her.”
“Yes, you do. So do we go there or somewhere else first? It’s your choice.”
“How about a picnic on the beach? I know a private one we can use.” He wiggled his eyebrows.
“Sounds good. I haven’t been to the ocean this trip.”
“We’ll stop and buy sandwiches and sun screen on the way.”
“You really know how to treat a lady.”
“If we go anywhere public, cameras will follow. I’m surprised they didn’t show up here.”
“I think Josh called and threatened the authorities if they leaked your release information. He’s still miffed they arrested you in the first place.”
“Where is he? I thought he’d come with you.”
“He hasn’t left her side once since she proved your innocence.”
“He always did take responsibility seriously.” He nodded.
“I’m not sure that’s the only reason. I think he might care for Paige. She’s hard to read so who knows if she likes him or not.”
“We’re talking about Josh. I’ve never seen him get serious about any chick.”
“Wait a minute. Paige is much more than a chick. She risked her life for you.”
“I didn’t mean it that way. I’m just surprised you’d think Josh would feel serious about her. I means she’s beautiful, but it’s Buzzkill we’re discussing.”
“You can see for yourself when we get there. I’m sure he’ll still be by her side.”
His phone rang.
“Okay. I’ll pay close attention. This should get interesting.” He answered his mobile.
“I hear you’re a free man, and I’m damned glad of it.”
“Tony Strete, as I live and breathe. I haven’t heard your voice in too long. How’s the movie business?”
“This one’s fine. How in the hell is the one I’m partners on? Do we still make our release date? No, seriously, I’m glad you’re out.”
“Me too. My life took a scary turn for a while. How much longer until you come home?”
“If problems don’t come up, about a month and a half. We’ll finish stateside.”
“The release date might get pushed back. No one’s touched our project since this murder situation arose, but we’ll celebrate my homecoming with steaks and beer once you get here. Josh and I will grab a head start before then, I’m sure. You know what I mean.”
“Yeah, I can’t trust you two with anything. What are you up to?”
“I left the jail minutes ago. We’re on our way to see Josh and Paige Stone. You remember her from our adventure in Tulsa.”
“I never met her, but I know who you’re talking about. Why isn’t Josh with you?”
“Paige got hurt killing the bad guy. Josh stayed with her. Caroline says he’s smitten.”
“So who’s Caroline?”
“Paige’s friend, and now my friend. She came and picked me up. ”
“Is that a nice way to say you’re screwing her?”
“God, no. She’s not like that.”
“Now you’ve got me worried. Don’t tell me she’s got you by the balls?”
“Why would you say that?”
“Your response. She’s not like what? I think you’re in real trouble. Shit. I leave you two alone for several weeks and look what happens. Don’t find any extra girlfriends for me. I’m immune to the female crap. I can see after I get home, I need to talk sense into you both.”
“Say whatever you want. There’s nothing wrong with me.”
“We’ll see. I’ve gotta run. They’re ready for my next scene. I’ll talk to you in a few.”
He disconnected.
“Is your friend okay?” Caroline asked
“Sure.” He ran his hand through his hair and grabbed the back of his neck.
“You do that a lot.”
“What? Oh, run my hand through my hair? A habit, I guess. You want to stop at a supermarket to pack our own picnic? Or I can call a little shop and have them put together something fancy for us. Champagne. Caviar. Brie. Whatever you want, you name it.”
“I’m more of a DIY girl than a diva. Let’s go shopping together. I had my fill of fancy growing up.”
“You did, did you? I can’t wait any longer. How about you fancy this.” He reached for her and kissed her cheek. She grabbed his face with both hands and brought her lips to his.
Paige hovered at the edge of sleep. But when Curtis Sampson entered her room, her eyes popped open, fully awake. What did he want?
“I know you’re surprised to see me. I gave you a hard time. Sorry.” He fiddled with his jacket like he didn’t know what to do with his hands.
“Okay.”
“I hope you can let my brusque manner pass this once. I felt certain we had the right guy. Our witness lived next door to McCall for years. Who could figure she’d give the wrong identification. Then they found his prints at a double murder site. So we believed we’d found our perp.”
“I understand. I talked to her. She was completely convinced, but we didn’t know then the real killer favored his brother so much. To tell you the truth, I thought Ben did it in the beginning.”
“I’m sorry you got hurt. Someone said you almost died from blood loss.”
“That’s what I’m told, but I’m fine except my wrist.”
“Will it heal okay? What do the doctors say?”
“They don’t know for sure, but they’re encouraged.”
“I hope everything works out. I wanted to check and make sure you’re on the mend.”
“Thank you.” She couldn’t think of another appropriate response, but at least he attempted to apologize.
The door opened and Josh walked through.
“I went to three different floors to get you this Pepsi.” He saw Curtis and gave her a questioning look.
“Samson, this is Josh Stuart. I’m not sure you two ever met.” She glanced at Josh. “He’s the detective who worked on Ben’s case.”
Josh’s expression didn’t appear friendly, but he shook the outstretched hand.
“I need to leave. Take care and have a safe trip home.” Curtis hurried from the room.
“You didn’t need to scare him off.” She grinned at Josh’s harsh expression.
“What did he want?”
“He made an effort to apologize, I think.”
“Big of him, I guess. How’s your arm?”
“It aches, but I won’t take those narcotics the doctor prescribed. Two ibuprofen will do, and don’t let the nurses catch you.”
“Are you sure? It’s a nasty break. I’ve never seen so much bone stick out before.” Josh got a small bottle from his pants pocket and shook two tablets into his palm.
“Compared to the dead prostitutes, it’s nothing. Believe me. Did they let Ben out yet?”
“He called while I was running down your soda. Caroline picked him up a few minutes ago.”
“You left them alone together? He has designs on her. She’s good people. What were you thinking?” She swallowed the pills and chased them with water.
“That they’re two adults who can do what they want?”
“That’s hardly the point. Why didn’t you go get him? You’re such good friends and all.”
“I couldn’t leave you here alone. Besides, they planned it and didn’t ask me.”
Before she could answer, Ben and Caroline walked in.
“Are your ears burning? We were talking about you.” She took her first drink from the cold can.
“Good words I hope,” Caroline said
“Mine were, I assure you.” Josh walked over to grab Ben in a quick hug.
“Sure. Leave me with my foot in my mouth. How long you been out?” Her gaze moved to Ben.
“Long enough to drive here. We plan to picnic by the ocean eventually, but I couldn’t wait to thank you for your help. I also wanted to ask about this guy everyone thinks is my half-brother.” Ben directed the question to her.
“Remember, I asked you about one? I figured with the witness so sure, the perp must look a lot like you. He did, but younger.”
“You met him?”
“Yes. When he struggled with me. But he tried to kill Josh, and I had to shoot him. I’m sorry, but he wouldn’t stop. I think your father messed his head up real bad.”
“Wouldn’t surprise me. If I’d known about him, I would have paid the old man to let me take him. I wish I’d helped him somehow.”
“You can’t fix what you didn’t know existed.” Caroline put her hand on his shoulder.
“True, but I still feel frustrated another person took abuse from my ass—I’m sorry, Caroline. My mouth still hasn’t been retrained.” Ben glanced back at her. “Will you be alright? My guard said you nearly died.”
“Not like the last time. I’ll heal.” She observed Ben and Caroline holding hands. “Now, Mister McCall, what are your intentions concerning my good friend? I see you didn’t take my advice.”
“Yeah, what are your intentions concerning me?” Caroline’s voice teased, but her eyes searched his.
“I planned to take your advice.” Ben nodded at her and pointed at the redhead. “But I’m certain I can’t live without Caroline. I’m hopeful she feels the same way.”
