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The lab tech stared at her with a bored expression. “We don’t do that here.”
“What do you mean, you don’t do that here? I need it tested and you’re a lab.”
The tech rolled her eyes. “I’m sorry, but we only have certain tests. If you know what you want to test for, I might be able to look into it for you, but otherwise, you’d be better off sending it out to whoever oversees your testing at the station.”
Bella scowled. Of course, the woman was right. The test was only to ease her own state of mind. Still, she glowered at the woman. “Forget it.” Marching off toward the reception desk, she demanded, “I’m here for Grant Shaw. He came in by ambulance less than ten minutes ago.”
The woman stared at her computer screen, clicked her mouse a few times, then clacked on the keyboard. “He’s in emergency room number nine.” She glanced at Bella over the rims of her glasses. “Is he in trouble? Should I put a note on here that he might be dangerous?”
“What? No! I’m here to make sure he’s okay.” Bella shook her head. What was wrong with people? What happened to giving people the benefit of the doubt?
When she reached the room, all she could hear was the persistent beep of the machines. His heart rate appeared normal. His breathing was okay. But he had completely passed out.
Stepping quietly, she moved forward and stood by his side. Bella placed her hand over his, comforted that he didn’t feel clammy or too hot to the touch. Hopefully whatever tox screens the doctor had ordered would give them the answers they needed.
Grant moaned in his sleep, but that was all the reaction she could get from him.
Her phone buzzed in her pocket. When she pulled it out, all she saw was a message from Eli. He needed to speak to her urgently.
Well, lucky for him, she had a few words she wanted to say as well.
* * *
Bella swung the patrol car door shut and marched toward the house. Eli emerged, hurrying down the steps with Bo at his heels.
“I’m glad you’re here. Grant’s?—”
She held up a hand, glancing around. She wasn’t surprised to find that several cowboys had emerged from where they were working. “Do you have somewhere more private we can speak?”
Eli nodded, motioning toward the house.
“Alone?” Bella gave a pointed look toward Bo, who didn’t look pleased in the slightest.
Once again, Eli nodded. “That’s fine.”
They made it to his office, and he shut the door behind them.
“We found Grant’s truck abandoned?—”
“He’s in the hospital.”
Eli’s mouth hung open.
“I’m not sure what’s going on, but someone is definitely targeting him.”
“You can’t be sure—” Eli argued, but she stopped him.
“Nothing is certain. But I’m not going to rule out the possibility. I’m only here to let you know he won’t be returning to work for another day or so—the doctors might hold him overnight.”
“Whatever he needs,” Eli said. He seemed lost in thought, his eyes dropping to the floor.
“I was thinking I’d take Nick to the hospital since I’m on my way there. Do you know if he’s still at school?”
Eli glanced up at her. “I believe his grandmother picked him up when we heard about the truck being found.”
“Oh, okay. Do you know where he is?”
“If I had to guess?” Eli shoved his hands into his pockets. “I’d say the staffers’ kitchen. That’s where he usually does his homework if Grant isn’t around.”
