Of course not, Jack said. He kept his own voice low and calm, trying his best to keep the situation from getting out of hand. But it gives us more than enough reason to at least approach you to ask a series of questions. You can understand that, right?

Pauline Vicks jaw was clenching and her eyes were starting to fill with tears. She did not blink as she stared them both down. She nodded slowly and with each nod of her head, Rachel saw more and more of the pain slipping away. All that was left was hatred. Rachel could almost feel it coming off of the woman in waves. She stood a little straighter in response, not sure what to expect.

The personal hell I went through for more than fifteen years has nothing to do with your case or the workings of whatever madman youre after. The fact that you would even assume that I would have anything to do with it just because of personal pain is not only insulting, but so far beyond the realm of professionalism that it disgusts me.

If you think were enjoying this, youre sorely mistaken, Rachel said. Based on countless case studies and research, people with severe trauma are far more likely to

It was then that Pauline Vick snapped. When it happened, it did so in a way that made Rachel think it had been a long time comingthat she and Jack just happened to be the one final push shed needed. More than that, it made it just a bit easier to imagine this very same woman killing someone in a blind rage.

Pauline kicked at Jack and said: Dont you dare talk to me about trauma! Her foot glanced off of his shin and her volume got louder with each word. By the time she said trauma, she was screaming. Ive lived under this shadow for far too long and now to have it thrown in my face while Im at work? Are you fucking crazy?

Pauline swiped her hand out and forward in a fit of fury. She slapped at Jacks chest, though not in any real threatening way. Jack stepped back, raising his hands to show Pauline that he was not going to retaliate, that he meant her no harm.

Dr. Vick, please was all Rachel was able to get out. When she realized that the next blow was going to be a side-swing fist directly to Jacks face, she moved instinctively. She was not able to block the blow completely, but she did catch Dr. Vicks right forearm as it struck Jacks chest.

Rachel applied just a bit of pressure and stepped forward She looked behind them and saw that at least five employees had stopped to see what was happening. Behind Vick, two people had come to peek their heads out of the doctors lounge.