“Your blood pressure is a little high, but after what you just went through, I’d be surprised if it wasn’t.” Jeremy released the cuff from my arm.
“Yes.” I was sure my pressure would return to normal once I got some water, food, and rest. My knee ached a bit, but that was to be expected. I’d ice it and take some ibuprofen when I got back to Royce’s home.
“If you’re ready, I’m the one taking you into Dallas,” Jeremy said.
“Dallas?” I frowned.
“To the hospital.” Jeremy smiled at my muddled expression.
“Oh.” I shook my head weakly. “I don’t want to go to the hospital. I… I’m fine. I want to go home.”
“I’d feel better if you got checked out in Dallas.” Jeremy frowned. “You could have internal injuries.”
I sighed. “I understand your concern, but I can take care of myself. I don’t believe I’m bleeding internally. Nothing is broken. I’m simply bruised, dehydrated, and exhausted.”
Looking skeptical, Jeremy said, “Still, you should probably have an examination.”
I grimaced. “I appreciate your concern, and I’d say the same thing in your position. Truly though, all I want is to be home right now. If I think something is wrong, I’ll go straight to the hospital. I promise.”
Jeremy gritted his teeth. “You sure about that?”
“Absolutely. I… I just need to be somewhere quiet and warm.”
Sighing, Jeremy said, “I don’t agree with your decision, but I understand it.”
“Thanks. I promise I’ll keep an eye on my pressure.” I wiped my filthy face, staring at my muddy hand. “I just need a shower, food, and sleep. I’m sure of it.”
Jeremy didn’t look convinced, but he did look resigned. “How about I give you a ride into Rainy Dale?”
“Oh…” I met Royce’s concerned gaze. I felt needy and didn’t want to let him out of my sight. “I don’t want to go alone though.”
Royce’s gaze flickered. “Uh, there’s no need for you to drive Dr. Thornton to Rainy Dale. I can do it.”
Jeremy frowned. “You sure?”
“Yeah.” Royce gave him a grateful smile. “I appreciate the offer, Jeremy. But I think I’d like to stick close to Max for now.”
“I get it.” Jeremy gave me one last concerned glance. “Well, how about I drive you two back to the house? I assume that’s where your truck is, Sheriff?”
“That it is.” Royce nodded. “You sure it’s no trouble?”
“None at all.” Jeremy smiled. “Meet me at my truck when you’re ready to go. It’s that red Ford over there.”
“Will do,” Royce said.
Jeremy moved away, toting his medical bag with him toward the truck.
“Can you stand?” Royce asked, getting to his feet.
“Well…” I wiggled my legs. They felt stronger now, and I figured with a little help, I could walk to the truck. I held out my hands to Royce. “With some help, I believe so.”
He smiled and grabbed my hands. Then he gently helped me up, slipping his arms around me. “I’ve got you.”
With my weight on them, my legs were weak and shaky but able to support me. I could still feel the cuff River had put around my ankle. Shuddering, I pressed my face into Royce’s chest, seeking comfort. His heart raced beneath my ear, and his arms were strong. Protective.
“That was the longest, most frustrating night of my life, Max,” Royce rumbled.
“It was horrific,” I whispered, soaking up his body heat. “But I knew you’d come.” I didn’t bother adding I’d feared it would be too late by the time he found me. He’d suffered enough, and he didn’t need to know I’d all but given up.
