Read Online Emergency: Parents Needed by Jessica Matthews - Free Book Online Page A

“Sure, but that’s something we always do,” she pointed out tactfully. She didn’t mention that this unwritten rule had caused friction between the two of them in the first place. Joe had watched her a bit too closely and found fault with everything she’d done while she’d become defensive and suspicious, but that was in the past and she hoped they’d turned a new page.
    “I know, but if he looks like he’s not able to function, let me know.”
    “OK,” she said cautiously, surprised that the captain, who normally frowned on telling tales on coworkers, was apparently breaking his own rule.
    “As you’re aware, he’s under a lot of stress right now,” he continued. “I would have given him the day off, not to mention rushed through an emergency paternity leave, but…” he shook his head “…with so many people on medical waivers and one person gone for arson training, I’m in dire straits.”
    “So he said.” Joe had relayed his conversation with Keller yesterday and although he hadn’t expressed his relief about being needed on duty, Maggie sensed that he was pleased to be back on familiar ground. Yet, while it was less than ideal for both Breanna’s and Joe’s adjustment, Maggie understood the captain’s position. In her opinion, though, this was a no-win situation for everyone.
    “I know he’s going through a rough patch with this baby,” he continued. “A man who can count his hours of sleep on one hand over the last seventy-two hours isn’t functioning at peak efficiency. I’m counting on you to be extra-vigilant.”
    “I will.”
    “And if you see something…”
    “I’ll tell you,” she promised, although she wondered what he’d do if she did catch Joe making a mistake. Would he send Joe home? Talk to him? Demand that Maggie act as the senior paramedic for every case?
    However, worrying over the captain’s decision on a nonevent was pointless. The patients were her concern and they would remain so, regardless of Joe’s personal issues.
    As she turned away, Keller stopped her. “Oh, and, Maggie?” She paused. “Joe told me what you’re doing to help him out.”
    “He did? I’m surprised.”
    “In fact, he called you a godsend.” Keller’s serious expression suddenly became jovial. “Quite a change in a few days.”
    “Yeah, well, if it weren’t for your lecture, I wouldn’t have gotten embroiled in his family problems in the first place,” she said wryly. “But I want you to know I’m only doing this because he’s my partner. And he’s helpless around kids. I couldn’t leave him to muddle through on his own.”
    She’d wanted to. Still did, in fact, but she’d agreed to help him and that was that.
    “I know this isn’t easy for you,” he began.
    “You can say that again,” she said fervently.
    “Does he know about Arthur and the boys?”
    “He’s heard the basics.”
    His eyebrows furrowed slightly. “As glad as I am to have you two working together like a team instead of sniping at each other, I also don’t want you to crash and burn like you did last time.”
    After Arthur had left town with Zach and Tyler, she’d done her best to carry on as if her world hadn’t fallen apart. She’d been reasonably certain she’d hidden the worst from the guys at the station but apparently she’d been wrong. Those nights when she’d roamed the dark hallways because she couldn’t sleep, those times when she’d stiffened as someone mentioned their kids’ antics or recited a funny story, those mornings when she’d got up with her eyes weary and bloodshot instead of bright and sparkly, obviously hadn’t gone unnoticed.
    “I won’t,” she promised. “The situations are totally different. Helping him with Breanna is like helping my brothers with their kids. Good old Aunt Maggie to the rescue.”
    He nodded, seemingly satisfied by her answer. “I’m glad to hear it. Meanwhile, if there’s anything the rest of us can do for Joe, let me know.”
    “I