Two days later, David gritted his teeth. The stubborn woman claimed her injuries had healed enough and was determined to go to work today. Intending to keep his promise of supporting her, he opened the passenger door and helped Jennie into his department-issued vehicle. He’d drop Zoey off at school and Jennie at the hospital.
He slid into the driver’s seat. “Oh, I almost forgot.” He handed Zoey a brand-new cell phone. “Since your phone is monitored, the guys pitched in and got you a new one with a new number. I’ve added your contacts too.”
Zoey squealed from the backseat. “Awesome! Thank you so much!”
“You’re welcome, munchkin.”
Jennie’s jaw dropped. “You didn’t need to do that.”
“I know. But she needs to be able to have private conversations with you without the department reading everything you talk about.”
He shifted to face Zoey. “I’ve added my number and Brandon’s to your contact list. Please don’t hesitate to call us if you need to.”
Zoey nodded and smiled while she explored her new device.
“That’s really sweet.” Jennie’s eyes filled with tears. “Please thank everyone for us.”
“Will do.” He gave Jennie Zoey’s new number, and she added it to her phone. “Now, how about getting you ladies to school and work?” He turned the key and pulled away from the house.
After depositing Zoey at school, he drove to the hospital. “Are you sure you’re ready for this?”
“Of course I am. It’s only a few scrapes and a few stitches. I’m perfectly capable of doing my job.”
“I know you’re capable…” He clamped his mouth shut. No need to make the woman mad. He parked in front of the hospital’s employee entrance. “I’ll pick you up after work. Have a good day, and if you need anything, call.”
“I will. Thanks.” She stepped from the car, closed the door, and waved.
David’s stomach churned as he watched Jennie walk up the sidewalk and disappear into the building.
Why had a storm cloud of dread suddenly surrounded him?
***
The familiar Iodoform odor tickled Jennie’s nose. How a disinfectant smell could be so soothing, she’d never know. Running a hand over her blue scrubs, she checked in and joinedher fellow coworkers for their informational meeting before starting her shift.
“Feeling okay, Jennie?” Tiffany rested her hand on Jennie’s shoulder.
“Been better, but I’m good.”
“Good. I hated hearing what had happened to you.” Tiffany leaned in. “Did they catch the guy?”
Jennie sighed. “Not yet.”
“I hope they do soon.”
“Me too.”
A request for help came from the ward clerk so she and Tiff veered to the left and headed for bay two.
Five hours later, Jennie finally had the opportunity to grab a bite to eat. She slipped into the staff room to retrieve her wallet.
Hands wrapped around her throat and squeezed.
She gasped for air, but none came. Clawing at the man’s fingers, she wiggled and fought to get away. The hot rancid breath on her cheek made her gag.
“Stop fighting me. You know you deserve this.” Her attacker tightened his grip even more.
Spots flickered on the edge of her vision. If she didn’t do something soon, she’d be dead and no one would know until her coworkers found her body later in the day. She summoned her last bit of strength and kicked out connecting with a metal shelf.
