Page 68 of From the Embers

“Well, Mr. Banks, you’re one lucky man. You have three broken ribs, suffice to say please stop trying to get out of bed and let us do our jobs.” She looks at me sternly and I swallow. She’s probably a few years older than my mom, and feisty. Unfortunately for her, I’m used to feisty women in my life.

“You have some concerning burns that we’ll continue to treat,” she goes on, “as well as some bruising around the abdomen, but I’m happy to report there are no internal injuries. Thanks to the quick thinking of your team administering oxygen at the scene, removing any carbon monoxide, prevented any further damage. Your lungs are clear with no signs of toxins. Oh, and you have some anxious people outside wanting to see you.”

“The girl?” I start, but she cuts me off.

“Is doing well. She suffered smoke inhalation and we’re treating that as we speak. She’s breathing on her own, so that’s a good sign. Her bloodwork showed no signs of any unwanted toxins. You got to her before it was too late. You’re a hero.”

“I don’t know about that, but thanks, Doc, that’s great news,” I say, trying to peer over her shoulder. “I’m glad she’s okay.”

“We usually say family only, but I can see these two are persistent.” She gives me a slight roll of her eyes. “Five minutes, then the nurse has to change the bandages.”

“Got it, thanks, Doc. I really appreciate it.”

She nods, taking her leave and two seconds later Adelaide and Daryl come rushing through the door. Adi stops in her tracks, her eyes widening when she sees me, her hands move up to cover her mouth as she gasps.

Daryl puts a steady hand on her back, moving her forward as he gives me a devilish smile. “Didn’t have to set yourself on fire to get me to come home, old boy,” he says.

I grin. “Funny fucker.”

He reaches one arm out to give me a careful, one-armed hug, his other arm still holding onto Adi. She looks as white as a sheet.

“Adi?” I whisper as we both look at her. “Are you okay?”

“W-what are all those tubes?” she stammers.

“They’re just monitoring my heart, and I’ve got oxygen at the ready. The doc says I’m gonna be fine. My team got me out in the nick of time.”

“Adi saw some of the footage on the way over,” Daryl goes on. “That was fucking insane, bro.”

I’m still staring at Adi who hasn’t come near me yet. I get Daryl’s in the room, but still. “Tell me about it,” I say, but I don’t look at him. “Adi?”

She lifts her gaze. “I’m so sorry, D.”

“Do I get a hug?”

She glances at Daryl and he rolls his eyes.

“She told me,” he sighs. “So while I’m gonna need some time to get used to you two love birds, I’m okay with it.” I high-five him gingerly, but then he adds, “You hurt her and I’ll have your balls in a sling.”

I blink. “Understood.” I reach for Adi’s hand. “But we’re not going anywhere.”

She slides her hand into mine and I pull her closer. “All those bandages…” she whispers.

“I suffered some burns, but they’ll heal. My ribs weren’t so lucky, but I’ve been complaining about needing a vacation.”

Daryl snickers.

Adi doesn’t laugh. She’s treating me like I’m made of glass. “I’m fine,” I tell her.

“The guys said you went back in to rescue a little g-girl?” she stammers.

“Yep. I pulled her out from under a bed, she was already unconscious. She’s a redhead, like you.”

Tears well in her eyes and then she practically throws her arms around my neck. “Oh shit, Denver, I’m sorry!”

I hold onto her tighter, kissing her hair. “Don’t be sorry. Just talk to me, okay? Like what we said.”

“Why don’t I give you two a minute?” Daryl offers.