The doctor took her through the doors to the emergency treatment area and led her into one of the treatment rooms. She nearly passed out when she saw Patrick. He was lying on the bed, his left leg in a cast from his ankle to his thigh. He sported a soft cast on his left wrist, stitches on one cheek, and scrapes on his forehead. His eyes were closed, and his face was lined with pain. But he was the most beautiful sight she'd ever seen.

She moved over to stand beside the bed. ...