Page 7 of Blitzing Emily

She pulled Emily’s clothing off a hanger in a concealed closet. Brandon ducked behind the sports page once more, but Emily gave him a glare that could melt steel.

“Don’t look,” she said.

“Oh, I’m not,” but it was all he could do not to laugh.

Brandon had known a lot of women since he was old enough to notice. He loved them, and they loved him back. It was as certain in his life as the sunrise each morning. At the same time, Emily was an odd combination of vulnerability and drill sergeant. He wasn’t sure what to think of her.

The nurse was getting in on the act, too: “No funny business. She needs rest.”

Brandon was a little stunned. Here he was doing his Boy Scout good deed for the day, but it still didn’t vouch for either his character or his upbringing. Then again, his mama would be doubled over with laughter right now.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about, ma’am.” He arched one brow.

“Don’t start with me.” Cheryl wagged one finger in his general direction, and indicated the wheelchair by the door. “Let’s go for a little ride, Emily. Mr. McKenna, please get your vehicle.”

Brandon sprinted down the hallway and vanished through the double doors leading to the waiting room. Get in Emily’s car, get on the road, and he could call his date for the evening from the cab he’d be leaving Emily’s place in.

Emily waited on the sidewalk with the nurse.

“Thank you, Cheryl.” Brandon extended his hand to her. “I’ll take it from here.”

“Youwilldrive safely on the way home,” Cheryl said.

“My mama must have called you.” He took Emily’s elbow as he led her to her car. “Come on, sugar. Let’s go.”

“INEED SOMEdirections to your place,” Brandon said.

Emily was fiddling with her phone, and frowning a little.

“Oh, you can just drop me off—”

“There will be no ‘dropping off.’” His voice was stern. “You’re doing exactly what Cheryl and the doctor told us. You have to go straight to bed. Let’s get you there.”

“I can’t figure out why you are doing this. Yeah, I fell down, but it wasn’t like you did it. I’m not mad at you. Plus, you have other pla—”

“Give me the address.”

“I’m on Alder Crest Road in Redmond Ridge. My townhouse is the first one on the corner.” Emily had the phone up to her ear. “Simone, it’s Emily Hamilton.” She listened intently for a few moments. “Not a good time?” He heard a peal of laughter. “Have a great evening with him. I’ll talk to you tomorrow.”

Emily punched the “end” button, and appeared to be thinking. She dialed her phone once more.

“Janey, it’s Emily. Hey, are you busy right now?” She was nodding like Janey was in the car with them. “I understand. Happy Valentine’s Day. I’ll see you soon.” She disconnected her call, and glanced over at Brandon.

“Remember that conversation we had about how everyone you know has plans tonight?” He gave her what he hoped was a sympathetic smile. “It might be a pretty tall order to find someone available.”

Brandon listened while Emily made call after call.

“I’m screwed. Actually, I’m the only one who’s not, according to everyone who’s actually answering their phone.” Her phone rang; Brandon had to smile at the excitement in her voice. “Tristan. How are you doing?”

Brandon couldn’t hear how Tristan was doing, but he heard Emily’s sharp intake of breath.

“Oh, no. I really need your help. I had an accident, and I can’t be left alone tonight. No, no. I’m okay, I just ... Is there any way that you and Jason could possibly come over? I know it’s a huge imposition.” She listened for a moment, said, “Don’t worry about it. I’ll call my mom and dad. You two have a great evening.”

Emily sagged against the passenger seat. So, Tristanwasn’ther boyfriend.

“Tristan said that unless I wanted to witness him performing acts on Jason that are illegal in thirty-seven states, it probably was not going to happen tonight.” She let out a sigh, and intoned, “It’s time to call my parents.”

“Sounds like a rugged phone call, sugar.”

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