Ian stayed with Kieran and the two teams’ leadership until well after midnight. They compiled lists of every employee at the blood bank, the MRI office, and the portable MRI office—and the phone logs from the chief medical officer.
Tate rubbed his eyes and yawned. “Dr. Vera Liukin is the chief of radiology. Mobile MRI is co-owned by University Hospital and Vera Vasova. How likely is it that there would be two Veras?”
“Here it is. Vasova is Liukin’s maiden name.” Mike frowned.
“Like we asked with Maddox, why would she do this? Her financials are pristine,” Martin said.
“Let’s put together some false intel to see if she bites. Mike, call tech. Put them on Liukin’s trail—friends, relatives, acquaintances. Then go home. Martin, you need to get off your feet. Tate, Kieran, go home to your wives. We’re too tired right now. We’ll make unnecessary mistakes,” Ian said, nodding at Martin.
Chapter Thirty-Four
Ian tiptoed into Cassie’s room where Jamie sat writing a note in her chart. “She’s out cold. Sophie and Rachel kept her busy, but you were missed. After the burial, she had another session with Stephanie. Tuck reported good progress in her rehab, but it's coming with a price. We’re concerned—she lost another pound. When Hunt comes in, he’s going to reorder the feeding tube. She needs more calories and protein. She isn't able to get enough down without getting sick—two thousand calories are a lot for a small adult. I’ll leave you be, but give me a shout if you need anything.”
Ian washed his hands and leaned down, letting his lips caress hers. He promised himself he would only stay a little while, not wanting to disturb her. He never heard Jamie return after falling asleep beside her, his fingers intertwined with hers.
* * *
At dawn, Cassie awakened from a peaceful sleep and looked over to see Ian, wearing sweats, working on his laptop in the recliner. “Hi. When did you get here?” She swung her legs over the side and took slow, cautious steps toward him. Her eyes dilated when she saw the small bit of white bandage visible below his sleeve. “Ian, my God, you’re hurt.” She moved faster, losing her balance. “What happened?”
His computer clattered to the floor. “I've got you." He whisked her into his lap. "I’m fine. Just a scratch.”
Cassie exposed the bandage, her questioning eyes penetrating his soul.
“Sweetheart, I’m fine.” He kissed the tip of her nose. When she gave him an eyebrow raise, he laughed. “Sorry, Cassie. I grew up with the Lillian Chase brow. You don’t stand a chance.”
Cassie pouted and nestled her body into his. “We saw each other for a few short minutes yesterday, but I missed you. I’m glad you’re back.”
“If this is how I’m greeted, then I should go away more often.”
Cassie placed a soft kiss against his throat. “Please don’t.” She was working hard to stay in the moment. “Can we talk?”
“About anything you want.”
“Thank you for bringing William home.”
Ian caressed her cheek, and she turned to kiss his palm.
“When we got back, your dad took me for a walk. Well, he walked and talked, and I rolled and talked. I talked some more things out with Stephanie and made some decisions.” She made full eye contact with him. “I understand I can’t stay in the cocoon I built. It’s very lonely. I’m afraid and need to go slow, but I would like to take a chance on starting a relationship with you. I mean, if you’re still interested.”
When Ian kissed her, she was tentative, filled with fear and promise. “Cassie, I’m more than interested.”
Her heart pounded in her chest. “I’m sorry, Ian. You’re so caring. Please bear with me. I’m all over the place. My mind is playing tricks. The things I told you about me—they’re so ugly.”
Ian interrupted her by placing two fingers against her lips. “I meant every word, Cassiopeia Ellis—Cassie Modine—I love you.”
Cassie didn’t understand why, but she wanted the chance. His kisses started like feathers tickling her. Deepening the intensity, he showed her his love without words. This time, Cassie let herself feel desire, melting her body into his.
“You’re going to get stronger, and we’ll take one step at a time. As slow as you need.” Ian pulled her tighter. “How about we get you dressed and have some delicious breakfast? I’ve got an in with Pete and Tuck. I bet you can have some gelato too.” He scooped her up and plopped her on the bed. “I can help you change if you want.”
Cassie giggled. “Ask Aunt Rachel or your mom, please?”
* * *
They sat together at the patio table with the navy and white striped umbrella protecting Cassie from the sun. She fingered Ian’s bandage. “I can’t stay here forever. Everyone is in danger because of me. Please tell me no one was killed.”
“Only one of the bad guys.” Ian’s hand formed a vise around hers. “Now listen—you will stay here until you are well.”Forever—if I have my way.“You’re safe here.”
“I’m not comfortable having people fight my battles. I know you want to help me. Stephanie helped me see that my experiences from the past are tainting my present. This is new to me.” Her nose crinkled. “Ian.”
