Adrian thought his heart had stopped when he realised that Randy was injured. He managed to count a hundred heartheats before he was satisfied that, yes, his heart was working fine, and that he was just worried about his friend. Of course, by that time both Natalie and Stottlemyer had rushed off to see Randy and he was left standing alone.
He had started walking in the same direction, counting each step, when Natalie came rushing back around the corner and grabbed his arm. "Come on Mr Monk," she said impatiently.
"I'm coming," Adrian said, and deftly stepped away from her enough that her grip slackened. He stared at his arm for a second, before deciding that it would be okay for now. He didn't need to change into another jacket yet. "So where is he?"
"They put him upstairs in one of the rooms," she explained, hurrying off again. He followed slowly behind her. "In here," she said, and pushed open the door.
Adrian walked in and was surprised when his heartbeat quickened when he saw Randy lying on the bed, unmoving. Stottlemyer was sitting beside the bed, looking grave. "Is he...?" he began.
"He'll be fine," Natalie said. "He did break a few bones, but nothing series. The doctor said he should rest up for a few days. He won't be able to make it to the wedding." She looked pensive. "I'll need another date."
Adrian took a few steps towards the bed. He still couldn't figure out his own reaction. Why was he still so worried after Natalie told him it would be fine?
Suddenly, Randy groaned and Stottlemyer immediately sat bolt upright and grabed his hand. "You're safe now," he said gruffly. "Monk and Natalie are here. You'll be alright. You just have a few broken bones."
Natalie hurried over. "I was so worried." She looked pointedly towards Adrian. "So was Mr Monk."
Adrian frowned. But he was worried. That was surprising to him. The only time he had been more worried was when he had gotten that fatal phone call about Trudy. He shook his head slightly. That train of thought was obviously ridiculous. It couldn't be true. He looked up and examined the room closely.
"How about I straighten that blanket for you?" Adrian offered. "Then everybody can be happier."
