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Rage made Ash growl. He leaned closer, tucking Georgia against his chest. “You’re a doctor. That’s your job.”
He checked his tablet. “My job finished... oh, it’s not officially finished. But I’m having a half day. I deserve it.”
“Get back on the clock, you jerk.”
The guy frowned. “How do I know you’re even going to pay me?”
“I’ll pay you by not slamming my fist down your throat and yanking out your intestines.”
His eyes widened, and his hand reached under the table. “Are you threatening me?”
“Hey now, what’s going on here?”
Ash turned toward a tall, striking blonde human hurrying over, concern on her face. “Doctor McKenna, you’re in no fit state to treat this patient,” the woman said.
“And I was just telling this fine Apexian that exact same thing. The unit’s closed. We all need a break.” He glanced at Ash. “I’m sure your friend will hold over until the morning. And if not...” He spread out his hands.
Ash bared his teeth and snarled.
The woman pressed a hand to Georgia’s forehead, and a frown marred her face. “I’m not so sure she will. And it looks like you’ve both been in a fight.”
“Yeah, something like that. Can you help her?” Ash focused on the woman. There had to be someone around here who gave a damn. “Our medical supplies were destroyed.”
Doctor McKenna laughed. “You’re having a shitty day. Dying girlfriend and no meds.”
“Ignore him,” the woman said. “Most days, he doesn’t even know what planet he’s on.”
“Don’t do it,” Doctor McKenna said. “If you open the doors, you’ll get every drunk idiot stumbling in, wanting a cure for their lonely hearts and empty pockets.”
The woman shook her head at him before smiling at Ash. “I’m Sybil Braxford. I assist Doctor McKenna with his outpatient work. Follow me. I’ll see what I can do for your friend. What’s her name?”
“Sucker,” Doctor McKenna said.
“Try not to drown in your beer,” she said. “This way.”
“Thanks. And her name’s Georgia.” Ash raced along behind Sybil as she strode out of the bar, rounded the corner, and headed to the large parking lot at the back. She unlocked the door on a huge wheeled vehicle and stepped inside.
Ash hurried in after her.
“Put Georgia on the bed,” Sybil said. “I’ll run the scan over her and see the results. Did I hear you say it could be poison?”
He nodded. “We met some unusual creatures on Sysal. Georgia only got a scratch on her hand, but it won’t heal.”
“Let’s see what the scan tells me. And stay out of my way. I work better when I’m not being crowded.” Sybil shot him a stern look, and Ash backed up, despite wanting to cling to Georgia and promise her everything would be fine.
“How’s our patient?” Doctor McKenna stumbled into the vehicle, a glass of beer in one hand.
“You keep out of my way, too. You’re no good to anyone in that state.” Sybil didn’t look up as she scanned Georgia. “Get your butt in the chair and pump yourself with some DMH to clear the effects of that alcohol. And stay quiet, or I’ll set this fine looking Apexian on you.”
Doctor McKenna gave her a clumsy salute. “I love a bossy woman.” He slammed into a chair and sorted through various vials sitting beside him.
Ash ignored the drunk doctor, his focus on Georgia. He’d never felt so powerless. He’d do anything to keep her safe, but right now, there was nothing he could do. He had to wait, hope Georgia would make a full recovery, and plot revenge on the aliens who’d risked his woman’s life.
