Disclaimer: I don't own anyone but Kali.

Rubbing sleep from my eyes I stumble into the kitchen and turn on the coffee maker. I had woken up in Abby's bed with a note beside me from her saying to come to the ER if I got bored. But right now my priority was getting caffeine into my system. I drum my fingers on the counter then twirl a few times and stretch. As I drop into the splits, the buzzer goes off (yes our coffee maker has a buzzer. We're that addicted.) I jump up and pour a cup, add lots of sugar then take a cautious sip. Mmm! Wandering to the front door I open and grab the newspaper and bring it back to the kitchen.

For the next half-hour or so I relax at the table, which is in front of the kitchen window, and sip my coffee. Finally I head for a quick shower, pull on the basic summer outfit (a tank top and twirly skirt over my bikini,) pull my hair up into a ponytail and search for some flip-flops that match my outfit. (I have a pair in every colour.)

Walking down the street I eye everyone suspiciously and stay tensed. But the sun is warm and I can't help but relax and loosen up. Digging around in my purse I pull out a tiny sample bottle that I keep filled with sunscreen and rub some on my nose, cheeks, and shoulders as I walk.

On the El it's scorching with all the people and I feel dizzy. But the ride is short and it's nice once I'm walking the streets again. County looms in front of me and I shudder fiercely as I glance at the Jumbo Mart. Hurrying through the ambulance bay, I brush past Ray and Susan.

"Kali hey!" Ray stammers, eyes wide.

"Hi Ray, Susan," I give a slight nod and soft smile.

Susan tentatively opens her arms and I step in and give a warm hug.

START RAY'S POV

I watch as Susan wraps Kali into her arms and caresses through the teen's hair. The silky, caramel hair that drives me wild. I look at the 14-year-old that is clutching at Susan and fight the constant temptation. She's too young Ray, I firmly tell myself. But she looks older, another voice persists. She's been through a very traumatic event, be the caring older brother figure like Carter, I yell inside my head.

With that, I pull Kali from Susan, lift her and hug at the same time, then settle her on the ground with a smile.

"Your okay," I assure.

She nods and gives a brave smile.

END RAY'S POV

I walk away from Susan and Ray and into the ER. The staff looks at me the way Susan and Ray did, but quickly snap out of it and send smiles in my direction. I guess Kerry lectured them.

I walk down the halls and peek into rooms to find Abby and/or Carter. After 15 minutes of searching I admit defeat and go to the lounge.

Wow! Found them!

THE END!

Watch for my next story; "Attracted"

PREVIEW

Walking down the halls at County, I feel comfortable and safe. But not too comfortable because things at home have been tense. Abby's been anxious and when I go to Carter's, he's hardly there. Ray passes me and gives a grin and a wink. I've also noticed that Dr. Barnette has been watching me lately. As much as I tell myself not to, I do encourage it a bit, when he winks, I give him a dazzling smile back. Or when we're close, I brush against him. Why? I don't exactly know. He's 24, just 10 years older than me. Not bad when you think of it like that.

Pushing into the gross bathroom, I wet my hair a bit (stupid humidity!) and apply some lip-gloss. Abby comes out of the stall looking frazzled.

"What's wrong?" I move towards her.

"Nothing, I'm fine, ready to go?" she smiles.

"Sure, but what's that," I point to something white sticking out of her purse.

"Old receipt," she mumbles, hastily tucking the white stripe deeper into her purse.