“It’s procedure. I’ve got a corpse—and four deaths to close.”
“I’ll take you, after you’ve been to the health center.”
“I’m not going to the health center.”
“Yes, you are.”
Peabody rapped on the door, opened it. “Excuse me, the MTs are here. They need to be cleared through security.”
“I’ll take care of it. Have them meet us in Dr. Ott’s office, would you, Peabody? They can examine Eve there before I take her in for full treatment.”
“I said I’m not going in for a treatment.”
“I heard you.” He pressed a control on his desk. “Clear the medics through, please. Peabody, are you carrying restraints?”
“They’re standard issue.”
“I wonder if you might loan them to me so I can restrain your lieutenant until I deliver her to the nearest medical facility.”
“Just try it, pal, and see who needs a doctor.”
Peabody gnawed manfully on the inside of her cheek. A smirk at the moment wouldn’t please her lieutenant. “I sympathize with your problem, Roarke, but am unable to comply. I need the job.”
“Never mind, Peabody.” He scooped an arm around Eve’s waist, taking her weight as she limped toward the door. “I’m sure I can find a substitute.”
“I’ve got a report to file, work to finish. I’ve got a dead body to transport.” Eve scowled at him as he called for the elevator. “I don’t have time for an exam.”
“I heard you,” he repeated and simply picked her up bodily and carried her into the elevator. “Peabody, tell those MTs to come armed. She’s liable to make a run for it.”
“Put me down, you idiot. I’m not going.” She was laughing as the doors closed on them.
• • •