Page 82 of Unrest
“Hello,” I said. He didn’t respond, so I went on, getting my stethoscope and equipment ready. “I’m Amber Tate. Paramedic. Army brat.”
He gave a small nod, his shoulders hunched. I took all of his vitals. Then I checked his fingers and toes. A couple had begun to blister.
“This is a good sign,” I told him. “They’re healing, but they’ll look worse before they look better. Just keep them really clean.” I made a bag with sterile bandages and a cleaning solution for him to take with him. “Come see me or Captain Ward any time if you need something.”
“Thanks,” he said quietly.
Top led Michael King from the room, and I couldn’t help but feel sad for the man. The darkness surrounding him was thick. I didn’t want to know what demons he was battling; I just hoped he was strong enough to beat them.
I went down the hall to Texas Harry’s room. He was sitting up in the bed with his monstrous calves hanging down, arm dutifully held up by a sling. His face was the picture of boredom and annoyance as he eyeballed me.
“Get me outta here, Mama Tate.”
I smiled. “Let me see what I can do.”
I took all of his vitals and was happy about how well everything looked.
“I think I can safely discharge you, if you promise to take it easy on that shoulder and arm.”
“Yep.” He quickly hopped down, wincing.
“I mean it, Harris. I will kick your ass if you reinjure it.”
He saluted me with his good arm.
“Want another dose of painkiller?” I asked him, feeling generous since the run had replenished our stock.
“Nah.” He ran a hand down his beard. “Save it for the pansy asses.”
I rolled my eyes and he grinned before strolling out.
I stripped the sheets from his bed and was walking down the hall when First Sergeant stepped out of a room and halted in front of me.
“What are you smiling about, Tate?”
Had I been smiling? His gaze was humored.
“I guess I’m having a good day?”
“Well, it suits you.” He gave an approving nod and moved on.
And this time when I made my way to the laundry room at the end of the hall, I embraced the small smile on my lips, fully aware of its presence, and grateful that there was anything to be happy about.
