Thunder Moon (Nightcreature 8)

“What are you doing here?” I demanded, even though his stethoscope made it fairly obvious.

“Pronouncing her,” he said. “Now she can go directly to the funeral home instead of making a detour to the hospital.”

I scowled at the boys. “What did I tell you?”

“But he’s a doctor,” Blondie said.

“I’m the sheriff. What I say wins.” I cast Walker a quick glance, but he was still messing with Ms. G. “The jury’s still out on if he’s really a doctor.”

That made him glance up, but instead of being angry or even annoyed, he appeared amused. “Oh, I’m a doctor all right.”

“I’m just supposed to take your word for it?”

“Sheriff, I’m sure you’ve checked my credentials, or had one of your underlings do it. If you don’t have my info yet, you will soon. If I’m lying, you’ll arrest me. Since I’ve got better things to do than sit in a cell, believe me when I say I have a medical license and I know how to use it.”

“Just because you were certified as a doctor in Oklahoma doesn’t make you one here.”

“I’m a doctor everywhere, regardless of if I’m licensed in that particular state or not.”

I narrowed my eyes. “You’re not licensed?”

“I didn’t say that.”

I’d had enough. Not only was the scent of him reminding me of the kiss we’d shared, but it also made me want to kiss him all over again.

“You two go play cell phone.” I jerked my thumb toward the door, and the kids left.

I had a shoulder mike, which would raise Cal quickly, but what I had to ask him I didn’t want everyone else to hear, so I yanked my own cell phone off my belt, and seconds later my deputy answered.

“I don’t suppose you checked those credentials yet?” I asked.

“Of course.”

“And?”

“Top of his class at both places.”

“His license to practice in Georgia?”

“Funny you should ask.”

I scowled at Walker, but he didn’t appear concerned.

“He’s got one.”

“Why would that be funny?”

“His application was scooted through damn quick. He must have friends in high places.”

“Terrific,” I muttered.

“Why are you so interested in his license and credentials?”

“He’s running around town pronouncing people. Wanted to make sure he was legal before I let him sign any death certificates.”

“Who’s dead?”

“Ms. G.”