Chapter 7 - The Hallway Accusation
At the hospital, Jessica received treatment for minor bruising.
Rachel had three cracked ribs, a fractured ankle, and internal bleeding that doctors believed was stable.
The emergency department was overcrowded.
Nurses placed Rachel in a wheelchair while they prepared imaging.
Jessica began crying near the admissions desk.
But her tears quickly became anger.
“You ruined everything.”
Rachel stared at her.
“I saved your life.”
“You pushed me in front of everyone.”
“An SUV was coming at you.”
“Because of you.”
Linda moved between them.
“This is not the time.”
Jessica pointed at Rachel’s tactical vest, which paramedics had found beneath the torn dress.
“What kind of person wears that to her sister’s wedding?”
“The kind who knew your husband’s family might try to kill someone.”
Richard stepped forward.
“Enough.”
Rachel looked at him.
“Your company has been supplying Meridian.”
He went pale.
Evan appeared behind Jessica.
“That is the delusion I warned you about.”
The senior police officer asked Rachel to surrender the drive visible beneath the torn vest.
She refused.
He reached for it.
Rachel’s medical monitor began dropping.
A nurse called for assistance.
Jessica continued shouting.
“Look at her. She wants everyone watching.”
Rachel’s vision blurred.
She realized the internal injury might be worse than expected.
If she lost consciousness, the drive would be taken.
If Meridian obtained it, dozens of undercover agents would be exposed.
Rachel reached for the hidden emergency beacon.
The monitor emitted one long tone.
She slammed her palm against the device.
May you like
Black Echo activated.
And the emergency-room doors exploded open.
