A Dozen Deadly Roses by Kathy Bennett Read Free Book Online Page B

her shirt pocket and rubbed the scarlet stain over her mouth.  “You’re just damn lucky they both survived,” she said, pressing the lid on the make-up and returning the plastic cylinder to her pocket.  “I’ve got enough of the story to brief the Captain.  I’ll interview Mac later.”
    The lieutenant glanced into the trauma room where the medical team worked on Mac.  “You know, I always wondered what might have developed between us if Mac hadn’t been married.”  A smile bowed her lips.  “I’ll see you back at the station.”
    Jade fumed as Callie sashayed down the hall.  She’s got some nerve saying I was afraid to go in the flood control channel.  At least I didn’t jump into bed with anyone and everyone I thought would further my career.  That bimbo has no street time other than her probation, and now she’s calling me a coward.  I’d like to kick her ass from here to Sunday .  But Jade realized the priority was the little boy and Mac; not the fact Callie Lasko was an abrasive jerk.
    “Hey, partner, is that you I hear out there?”
    Jade looked toward the bed.  The medical staff was finishing up with Mac and leaving to carry out other duties.  She stepped into Mac’s line of sight, surprised he recognized her voice.  Her heart pounded.  She hated he had that effect on her.
    “How are you feeling?  What did the doctors say?”
    He started to shrug, then winced in obvious pain.  “Nothing broken, but I’m kind of beat up from my water ride.  How’s the kid?”
    Jade shook her head.  “Last I heard they were taking him for some x-rays.  His parents are with him.  I think he’s going to be okay, thanks to you.”
    Mac waved his hand in the air.  “I did what anybody else would have done - except maybe that tight-assed lieutenant.  How in the hell did Callie Lasko get promoted to lieutenant with that attitude?”
    “Oh, you heard her.”
    “How could I not?  That witch must have a block of ice in her chest instead of a heart.  She would have let that little boy drown, all because it’s against the rules to try and save him.”  Mac sat up and dangled his bare legs over the side of the bed.  “That’s what I mean when I gripe that officers are afraid to do their jobs.”
    Jade nodded and sighed.  “I know what you mean and you are right.  But, I’m going to have to make a negative entry on your daily evaluation.”
    Mac started to speak but Jade held up her hand.
    “Any other violations of department policies or procedures will also be documented.  I’m sorry, but I have to.”
    “What is it with you women?  You sound just like her.”
    Jade didn’t react to his frustration, because she was frustrated with the situation as well.
    “Mac, I’m just trying to do my job.  I have no choice.  Lasko’s never liked me and technically she’s right.  I have to report any violation of department rules or policy.  If I don’t, I’m subject to a complaint.  And you can bet Lasko will be right there ready to draw up the paperwork.”
    “What a crock this is.”  His scowl was as dark as the storm clouds outside.  “Now I know why the department can’t find anybody to hire.  The LAPD is run by morons.”
    Jade shook her head.  “They may be morons, but they’re just trying to show the public the police are not afraid to discipline their own.  You’re just getting a taste of how public perception and the media have changed the Department.”
    Just then a nurse came in with some painkillers and paperwork for Mac to take back to the station.
    “How’s the little boy?” he asked.
    The nurse smiled. “He’s very lucky.  He’s banged up just like you.  He’ll be bruised and sore, but in a few days he’ll be out playing as if nothing ever happened.  God bless you, Officer.”  The nurse shook Mac’s hand while Jade held back tears of feeling inadequate.
    While Mac put on a spare set of doctor’s scrubs, Jade called the station to be sure they’d