Chapter 8
Myles didn't move far from Tara side while Doc Johnson completed his examination. Gripping her hand, he felt her squeeze several times as the doctor checked her collarbone and ribs. He knew the probing had to hurt her, but other than clutching his hand tightly, she made no comment.
"Well, young lady, I would say that you were pretty lucky." Doc closed his bag, standing up. "It appears your collarbone is the only break, your ribs are just bruised and you have a concussion. Everything else seems to be just fine, but you're going to be very uncomfortable for a while," he concluded.
"Annie, you did well with that sling," Doc called to the kitchen where Annie sat with Deputy Webster, Craig, Hank, and Danni.
"Thanks Doc," Annie replied as she entered the room followed by the others.
"I'm recommending plenty of rest," Doc explained. Looking at Myles, he warned, "She shouldn't try to do too much on her own just yet, so keep an eye on her."
"You can be assured that I will," Myles pledged, glancing down at the young woman on the couch. "Thank you, Doctor."
"Your welcome," Doc Johnson shook his offered hand. "Are you ready, Deputy? I have some more patients I need to see," he added, moving towards the door.
"Of course, Doc," the deputy replied, following him. "Nice to meet you, Mr. Leland. I'm sure I'll be back by before you leave," he assured them, eyeing Myles suspiciously. Then with a mock salute to the others, he was gone.
Myles could have sworn he heard a palatable sigh of relief when the two men left. His eyes shifted around to the others as his reservations began to grow. Tara tugging on his hand brought him out of his reverie.
Kneeling down beside her, Myles brushed her hair back from her forehead with his free hand. Searching her face, he could see that the doctor's prodding had taken a lot out of her.
"Why don't you rest for a little bit?" Myles suggested, his hands gentle as he helped her get more comfortable. Tucking the blanket around her shoulders, he traced her features with his eyes almost as if it was his first time seeing her. Shaking his head slightly, he was shocked when he suddenly felt the urge to kiss her.
Blinking quickly, he pulled his hand from her grasp and stood up. With an unsteady breath, he watched her close her eyes succumbing to the fatigue that had set in. What's wrong with you, Leland? he admonished himself silently. This is Tara. Get a grip!