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“I understand, but—”
“She lives in Temecula!”Crap-on-a-pumpkin-stick!There he goes again, butting in, dobbing me in.
I turn my head and scowl at Tucker. “How do you know I live in Temecula?” Did he go through my wallet? If he did, then he would know my name is not Hamlet. Also, shame on him if he invaded my privacy.
“Keanu told Shamus downstairs, who then whispered in my ear earlier.” He one-shoulder shrugs. “Sorry, not sorry.” Oh, he is enjoying my embarrassment.
I look at Shamus.
The sexy Scotsman points to Tucker. “What he said. Sorry, not sorry. We’re just looking out for ye, lass.”
“No buts,” Doc says gently. “A two-hour drive is out of the question. I want you to stay with a friend tonight and get another form of transport to Temecula with you as the passenger if you do not allow Tucker to drive you.”
A swift change of topic is necessary. “Thank you for your medical assistance, Dr. Sullivan. What do I owe you? I have cash on me when I can gain access to my wallet and keys. I have more in my car if I need it.”
“It’s all on the house… unless you get in your car and drive, then I will bill you exorbitantly,” he warns me with a no-nonsense glare.
“Thank you again. I’ll figure something out.” A cab will cost a fortune, and my car will get stuck here. I could call my cousin—
My thoughts get interrupted by the good doctor. “Remember everything I told you, but to be safe, I have written a list of things to watch out for and to take Ibuprofen. Have somebody stay with you tonight. Any more dizziness, persistent headaches, or nausea,pleasesee a doctor.”
“I understand.” There’s not much else he can do for an egg on my forehead and tender bruising. We did everything right before his arrival for my scalded skin. Now it just has to heal by itself.
“Right, well, my job appears to be done here, time to move on to collecting my lunch order and my next patient.” He leans closer and whispers, “Have a good day, Ophelia.” I had quietly explained how Keanu had made up the nickname while the doctor was attending to me, and I didn’t stop the charade. He thought it was amusing.
“Thank you and sorry for interrupting your lunch break.”
“No apologies necessary.” He pats my knee gently before standing.
“Here you go, Doc.” Keanu arrives and hands over his lunch order. “Thanks for getting here so fast.”
“You’re welcome. It’s been a while since I had a call-out from one of you. I was beginning to wonder if the crew had all outgrown needing me. You are all due for a barbecue invitation to my house soon. Betty and I will organize something.”
“Look forward to it, Doc.”
He gives Keanu a fatherly pat on the shoulder, then shakes hands with him, followed by a nod for Tucker and Shamus before walking off with his order.
Keanu grins at Tucker. “I’ll see you later tonight.” Then he looks at me. “Be a good poppet and let Tucker drive you home. I would, but I’ve got my duties here. When you’re in town again, drop by and see us.” He hands me a business card for Limbitless Tees, which I examine. “You and I can catch up on the gossip of ‘When Harry Met Sally.’” He looks pointedly between Tucker and me. “Also, I am feeling inspired to create a T-shirt for you. It is a small token for how sorry we are you got hurt today, so don’t forget me.”
“It might be a while, but I won’t forget. Thank you, new friend.”
“Feel better soon.” He gives me a two-hand wave and backs out of the apartment.
The minute the door to the apartment closes, I get swooped up into Tucker’s arms.
“Whoa there! I’m no damsel in distress.” I talk through my teeth. “Put me down. We have already played this record. I’m perfectly capable of walking out of here. Thank you.” I close my eyes and start counting:One, two—
“Nope!”
My eyes fly open. “What do you mean,nope?”
“Not so fast, Spitfire. What day is it today?”
I grumble under my breath, “I’ve been through this already with the doctor. We’ve checked my reflexes and memory. I’m not confused. I know where I am.”
“I’m waiting.”
“Friday.”
