“I’ll see you tomorrow, Mr. Hollins.”
“See you then.”
Just like every other day.
Me and Troy.
I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Chapter Two
SUTTON
“That’s it, let it out.”
“But what if it gets stuck?”
“It won’t. I promise.”
The kid, who’s no older than five, lurches over the side of the bed and pukes again. The retching noise doesn’t even faze me at this point.
Even if it splatters onto my scrubs.
His mother looks horrified. “I am so sorry.”
I smile back at her. “It’s okay. I have a six-year-old at home. Not the worst thing that’s happened to me.”
“I feel silly even bringing him in. It’s just, he won’t stop puking.” She’s twisting her hands in her lap, sitting in the chair right next to her son.
“You did the right thing. We’ll make sure he’s as good as new in no time.”
“My tummy feels empty now,” he moans.
“That’s good.”
Grabbing the IV bag that someone else failed to get going, I start a line with ease—something I’ve perfected over the years working in the ER. No child wants to be poked and prodded unnecessarily when they already are inthe hospital.
“The doctor should be in soon. If you need anything, press the call button and I’ll be back to check on him.”
“Thank you.”
I’m out the door, making my rounds on my patients. Thankfully, the worst of it today has been an upset stomach and a broken leg from jumping out of a treehouse. There’s nothing worse than when kids come in banged up and broken from the people meant to protect them.
Those are the days I hate my job.
Today is not one of those days. All that stands between me and getting off is a little over a half hour. Being on my feet for twelve hours is never easy. It’s even harder when all I want is to be at home with my baby girl.
“Linda, can you cover for me? I need to get cleaned up.”
“Sure thing, Sutton.” Our charge nurse smiles at me from where she’s helping one of our newest nursing students.
“Thanks.”
After heading for the break room, I drop onto the couch, needing a minute to myself. I throw my arm over my eyes, blocking out the harsh overhead lights.
“Eww, you smell.”
I peek one eye open, staring at my best friend, Jameson.
