Hank couldn’t move as the nurse worked. Bandaging first her arm, then her neck. The woman he’d hit made no sound. Her chestnut-colored hair lay over a place where they’d shaved her head to put stitches in.

This quiet view of her hurt him deep inside. He’d been the cause of her pain. He had to help her.

He’d done this to the lady, and yet she’d taken the blame last night. She’d told the sheriff she’d stepped out without looking. She was stronger than he was, even when he’d been riding bulls and working the oil fields.

Hank would take care of her. Not because she needed him, but because he needed to. Penance, maybe, for all the wrongs he had done.

Slowly he slipped into the room and watched everything the nurse did. The way she secured the sling. How she checked the brace on her leg. How she touched Millie lightly to balance her for even the smallest movement.

As the nurse worked, she talked to him as if giving a demonstration.

He moved closer, learning as he watched. Her hospital gown came loose and slipped, barely covering her breasts. He didn’t miss the bruises along her collarbone.

The nurse spoke softly to Millie, but her gaze met Hank’s eyes. “There will be more bruising, dear. Deep bruises coming up. It looks like your left side took most of the impact. Make sure you take all the meds for a few days and talk to the doc before you go off painkillers. Keep all wounds clean and dry. Don’t push yourself. Let your friend help you.”

“I don’t want painkillers,” the librarian said. “Only over-the-counter.”

He couldn’t see Millie’s face, but she sounded determined.

“All right,” the nurse answered. “But you’re going to hurt all over.”

“I can take the pain,” she answered as she pulled up her gown with her right hand.

Hank moved forward and tied the gown behind her neck. “I’m here to help,” he said almost against her ear, as he lightly placed his hand on her right shoulder. “You’ll have to tell me how.”

She turned and looked at him, showing no surprise that he came back. Her eyes were clearer this morning, but the left side of her face was bruised. “I’m glad you came. Promise not to boss me, Mr. Norton. I’ll take the help when I must, but I want to manage if I can.”

“I promise.” He grinned. The lady had strength in her that surprised him.

He thought of all the promises he’d broken over the years, but he wouldn’t break this one. “I’ll stay with you for as long as you need me.”

“Thank you.” Her hand touched his fingers still resting on her shoulder. “I’ll heal fast.”