Page 2 of Dark Consequences
I look up and see Dr. Rodriguez approaching. The man gives me the creeps. And that’s putting it mildly. It’s my first rotation serving with him and hopefully my last. Something in the way he looks at me sets every warning bell off in my head. And I’m not alone. Several of the nurses and other female staff share the same opinion.
His eyes roam over my covered body, and I tighten my cardigan anyway as if the thin fabric will somehow shield me from his lecherous gaze.
“How can I help you, Dr. Rodriguez? Did I forget to fill out a chart or something?”
He holds up a bottle of what I can only assume is alcohol of some kind. Alcohol isn’t exactly forbidden since it’s a favorite way for many team members to deal with the stress of the job, but I’ve never been a fan of the hard stuff. I’m a wine and spirits kind of gal.
“A little nightcap?”
“Not tonight, but thank you for the offer.” I hate having to be polite, but he’s technically my boss, and like I said, I need the job.
He sighs like my rejection hurt him, and I can’t find the energy to really care if I did. I’m exhausted, and if I can’t soak in a tub, then I just want to take my sweaty shower and pass out beneath my mosquito net.
“I heard about the guy and the kid whose parents were killed,” he says. “Sounds like a tough day. Are you sure you don’t want one little shot? It’ll take the edge off and help you sleep.”
I lean forward and rest my elbows on the wood railing, swallowing my groan of annoyance. Glancing around, I search for anyone who might help get me out of this awkward situation, but dinner is still being served, so this side of the base is empty.
“Come on. Just one shot?” Dr. Rodriguez pushes again.
“I’m really tired and just want to get ready for bed. Next time, swear.”
“Please?” He pouts. “I promise to leave you alone afterward. Look. It’s just, I had a bad day too and could use the company.”
I take a deep breath and blow it out hard. Fine. A shot would help take the edge of the day off, and if it will at least make the man shut up and go away, I’ll do the damn shot.
“Okay, just one, and then you really need to go find Dr. Cole or someone else to drink with. Deal?” I tell him and then turn away as he grabs two plastic cups to pour the alcohol into.
He holds one out to me, and the powerful smell of whiskey invades my nose. He clinks his cup against mine, like there’s anything cheerful to celebrate in this war-torn country. In a hurry to get this over with, I toss back my glass and wince as the bitter taste slides down my throat. It’s almost nauseating, but I manage.
“Thank you, Dr. Rodri—”
“Call me Joe.”
I blink hard, my eyes suddenly tired from the day. I’ve always been a bit of a lightweight, but one shot is a little odd. When was the last time I had a drink, anyway? Back in Chicago? Or at Sarah’s birthday party? That was months ago. No. It was the week before I came to Columbia. Right?
“Dr. Rodriguez, I think I’m going to call it a night.”
“Joe, please.”
I try to tell him it’s not professional, but my face feels heavy. I take a step back and stumble.
“Whoa, my dear! Careful now.” He rushes forward and wraps his arm around my waist, pulling me flush to his chest. I try to push back against him, but my arms won’t work.
“Wha-what’s-what’s going on?”
Dr. Rodriguez brushes my light hair from my face, and there are two of him in my vision now. “You’ve been teasing me ever since you arrived.”
No, I haven’t. I’ve barely said more than six words to the man outside of a case.
“And well, I’m done waiting for you to make the first move.”
He leans forward. Black rushes from the corner of my eyes. I try to resist its overwhelming force, but it's relentless, weighing me down, and I've never felt so helpless.
I’m trained to save lives…but who will save me?
1
Raphael