Page 7 of In Death, Love Survives
“What do you think about him?” Ryan asks.
I scan the prisoner and locate his identification number. As I flip through my files, I easily find the person in question.
“I think he may need my help.”
“But he hasn’t listed any mental health concerns, correct?”
“That’s correct.”
“Did you go through all the new prisoner files?”
“I did. Of course I focused on the thirteen who listed needing help first.”
“Good, but this one?”
“The pattern of break-ins and related crimes on his record indicates that maybe he’s been overlooked.”
“I think a one-on-one session with you may be worth a try then.”
“Me too. I’ll make a note of your agreement to that. Thank you.”
Scribbling the note down on the file, I close it back up and continue to watch the final processing.
“Almost time for us to head on back,” I say.
“Almost. There’s one prisoner in particular I’m hoping to see before we leave.”
“Isn’t he the last one?”
“No. Time to see the star of the show.”
My eyebrows furrow together as I think back to the transfer list we received.
“Star of the show?” I ask, confused.
“I bet this is him coming,” Ryan whispers.
I glance around the room to see other staff members also with us. Ryan most likely doesn’t want them to know this upcoming prisoner has his attention.
“What makes this one stand out?”
“You’ll see.”
The door to the room we’re watching slowly opens, and in steps a man unlike anyone I’ve ever laid eyes on before.
My mouth parts and eyes widen as I drink in his undeniable presence. This man is broad, with thick muscles pulsing through his jumpsuit. The way his tan skin complements his shaggy, brown hair makes heat start to stir below my stomach.
I swallow thickly, as the feelings I’m getting are entirely inappropriate, making my cheeks start to flame in embarrassment.
I’m a professional.
A doctor.
I can’t let this man with striking green eyes and a chiseled jaw impact me like this. It’s been far too long since anything resembling desire has bubbled within.
Desire. That’s exactly what I feel as this man easily saunters into the room and waits for instruction.
He turns his head toward the mirror and stares. Almost as if he knows I’m on the other side of it, his eyes snap right to mine. It’s impossible for him to know that it’s me watching through it.
