Page 66 of Shadow Redemption
Trace chuckled. “I think you’ll slip a ring on her finger as fast as you can find a jewelry store.”
“That would be my first choice, but I don’t want to scare her. Agreeing to date me is a huge step.” But, man, he wanted his ring on her finger to declare her off limits to the rest of the men on the planet.
“Don’t push her too fast. She needs to heal.”
Ben tore his gaze from the door to look at his friend. “No need for the warning. I know what she went through.”
Surprise widened Trace’s eyes. “She told you?”
“Enough for me to put the pieces together. Like I said, she’s mine. I’m content with that. We’ll move forward on our own timetable.”
The exam room door opened and a man in a white coat with a stethoscope draped around his neck walked out. He pulled up short when he saw Ben and Trace. He frowned. “You are here for Mrs. Slocum?”
Glad that she’d remembered her cover name, Ben nodded. “I’m Ruth’s husband, Ben. How is she?”
“I’m Dr. Garcia. Mrs. Slocum is very lucky that you had epinephrine. She will be fine. I want to admit her for observation until tomorrow. I will release her in the morning if all goes well.”
Relief weakened Ben’s knees. Thank God. “Will she have long-term repercussions?”
Garcia shook his head. “She’ll fully recover. Be vigilant about her food allergy and keep epinephrine handy. You need two doses with you at all times. Something may go wrong while you try to administer the first dose, or you may be far enough from medical help that a second dose will be necessary.”
He’d have to get another dose from Sam. Shadow’s medic had packed several doses in her mike bag in case there was a problem. “We’ll have what we need by the time we leave tomorrow.”
“Good. She’ll be moved to a room soon. Her body has been through a trauma. She needs as much rest as possible.”
“I’m staying with her. I don’t care what your hospital policy is.”
The doctor smiled. “I understand. I’ll make sure you receive no trouble from the medical staff.”
“Clear my friends, too. One of them will sit outside the door at all times.”
Garcia’s eyebrows rose. “Why? She’s safe here.”
“Ruth has a stalker and the allergic reaction may be linked. I won’t take chances with her life.”
“No one will protest as long as corridor access is clear.”
“Thanks. I want to see Ruth.”
“Of course. The orderly will soon take your wife to her room.”
“Thank you, Dr. Garcia.”
With a nod, the physician strode to the next exam room and walked inside.
Trace clapped Ben on the shoulder. “I’ll keep watch.”
He walked into the exam room. Ruth lay on a bed clad in a hospital gown with an identification band around her wrist. Even though a blanket was draped over her, she was shivering. “Ruth.” Ben wrapped his hand around hers.
She opened her eyes and smiled. “Hi.”
“How do you feel?”
“Jittery from the epinephrine, but I can breathe. When can I leave?”
“You’re a guest of the hospital until tomorrow morning. The doctor wants to make sure you don’t have complications.”
Her smile faded. “I’m staying overnight?” Dismay filled her voice.