The Empty Land (A Hunter Kincaid Novel)

Connie said, “Thank you.”

***

Two hours later they moved Raymond into a room. Connie stayed in the room with him, sleeping in the reclining chair. Hunter stayed in the waiting room and dozed sitting up.

At ten-thirty the next morning, Connie came into the waiting room and motioned for Hunter. “He’s awake. He’s asking for you.”

Hunter entered the room and felt a shock when she looked at her friend. His skin had a gray undertone, and his eyes were dark-ringed. It looked like he’d lost thirty pounds, and she knew that wasn’t possible, but that is the way he appeared.

Raymond said in a hoarse voice, “Quit gawking, I’m fine.”

“Right as the mail,” Hunter said, using one of the Doc Holliday quotes from the old Tombstone movie that Raymond liked.

“You bet.”

“You feel up to talking?”

“A little, I’m kind of tired, though.”

“Well, duh.”

Raymond chuckled and said, “Don’t make me laugh, it hurts.”

“Don’t say goofy stuff, then.”

Connie bristled, “Don’t talk to him like that.”

Hunter said, “I’m kidding, Connie. I thought it might do him good.”

“He is a sick man, and he almost died. He needs to be quiet and not upset by arguing and dirty comments.”

Here we go again, Hunter thought, but she controlled herself. “I didn’t mean any harm. I’ll be more careful.”

Connie wasn’t through, “I’m here to take care of him. I’m his wife.” She didn’t say, not you, but it was clear what she meant.

Hunter was tired, and her patience gone. She started to say something, but with a huge effort held it in.

Raymond said, “Connie, give me and Hunter some private time.” Connie’s lips thinned, but she left the room. He said to Hunter, “I could tell your fuse is a little short today, and I didn’t want you to shoot her.”

“Ahh, you know how it is between us.”

“I do. But she’s scared to death right now.”

“I know, and that makes her extra protective of you, which is a good thing.”

“Thanks for understanding.”

“Sure.”

Now, let me tell you something I remember.”

“Is this for a report?”

“No. This is for you.”

“I’m listening.”

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