Page 28 of Absolution

A photo of The New River Gorge Bridge in West Virginia, my understanding is people base jump off it, so I put it on my bucket list immediately. Nothing wrong with thrills and chills from time to time.

Between the colors on the cover and the phrase, my mind races back to the feisty redhead and the way she completely blew me off. I don't think anything like it has ever happened in my life.

"Well, at least in the last two years." I glance at Doc, "Don't look at me like that, I'm hit on all the time." I slide the pieces around, linking them as I do. Doc's right, I have to forget about Scarlet, but I have a sinking feeling that's going to be near impossible.

Some days, all I can think of is the idea of being normal, or maybe I hope I can be one day. Then again, what does normal mean anyway? Either way, it doesn't take long to be reminded of why I will probably never have that in my life.

Doc catches my eye. "I know, it's time to head out, but first, a shower." I set another piece in and kick my ass in gear for the day.

Doc chills on the bed while I grab some clothes. Now and then, she flashes those puppy eyes at me, and I melt. Dogs are resilient, but Doc is my girl, and I'm worried.

"We could... call the vet, ask her if we should protect your foot more?" I pace at the foot of the bed while Doc lounges, keeping a close eye on me. "Ya know, just to double-check. Completely and totally about you."

I take out my phone as I walk over to grab her card. I dial the number and freeze. Doc's ears shoot up, staring at me. "What the hell do I say?"

"Coastal Veterinarian Clinic, this is Mary. How may I direct your call?"

"Yes, I need to speak to the doctor, please. She treated my Golden over the weekend, and I have some questions." I wince, hitting myself in the head for sounding like an idiot.

"Who did you see?"

"Ahhh, Doctor Morgan."

"Hold, please."

That's all? Surely, she'll need to call me back, or I'll have to leave a message. Okay, now I have an idea. Leave her a message and make it vague. That way, she'll have to call you back, and you have time to figure out your game plan.

And then, this happens.

"Doctor Scarlet here, how may I help you?"

I stare at Doc, panicked, and slack-jawed. Think of something, damn it! Just say words. Insert them here. "Hi, Doctor. It's Creed. Hatcher. Creed Hatcher with Doc. My Doc, not you doc."

"Alrighty. Is she doing okay?"

I run my hand through my hair, utterly embarrassed to ask my question now. "Yeah, I mean, she's sore but seems to be doing well."

"Is she in any pain or bleeding?" Dear Heavenly Father, she sounds like she just woke up. Like, that sexy rough sound first thing in the morning. I bet her hair would be a wild mess. "Hello?"

"Oh, yeah. No, nothing like that. I was wondering if maybe, I should put a sock over her bandage, so there's no chance it'll get dirty? Ya know, for extra protection." Way to go dickhead! You sound like a horny teenager.

"You could... if she'll wear one. Just be sure she doesn't chew on it or tear her covering or incisions."

I nod, trying to think of something else. "Good deal, sounds like what we'll do."

"Wonderful," she pauses, "is there anything else I can do for you... umm, help you with?"

"Naw, I think that's all we needed."

"Well, you have our number if you need us, or you can call your local veterinarian's office." Shit!

I pound my forehead, feeling completely seen. "I tried calling them first, they hadn't opened yet."

"Wow! How surprising, but you're welcome to call us at any time, we offer after hour care too." She's the utmost professional, and I'm stalking her like an asshole. I don't have a snowball's chance in hell with this woman. End it, Creed. End it now before you really make a fool out of yourself.

"Yeah, okay. Will do. Thanks again, Doctor Morgan."

"Please, call me Scarlet." My heart hammers against my chest as my pulse reacts to the thought of her touch. I'm in trouble, she could be my kryptonite, and as everyone knows, I'm no hero.