Fear Thy Neighbor (72)
“I don’t have to stay in the hospital?” Surprised that the extent of her injuries wasn’t that bad, she was also relieved she could return to Val’s or her own place. She planned to find out who did this to her, and she was going to make them pay.
“Nope, though your wrists and ankles are a mess, nothing was broken, no ligaments torn.”
“How lucky am I?” Ali said sarcastically, offering a half smile to her friend.
“Very. Today’s supposed to be my day off, but Louise called in sick. I’m glad I was there.”
“I hope I didn’t cause trouble for you, with your job and all.”
“Not at all. I called our part-timer,” Tammy said. “He’s glad for the extra hours.”
“I’m glad I didn’t cause any more problems.” Changing the topic, Ali asked, “How’s Peaches and her kitties?”
“Growing and eating everything in sight. The little critters keep me on my toes,” Tammy told her. “Thanks to you,” she added.
Had it only been a few days since Ali had found the kittens, then rented a hotel where the owner drugged their guests? It sounded like something out of a horror movie. If she told her story to a stranger, would they even believe her? Probably not.
The doctor entered her room, a smile on his face. “Look at you, wide awake now,” he said as he removed a penlight from his pocket. “Just want to check a couple things; then we can let you out of here.” He shined the light in each of her eyes, returning the light to his pocket when he finished. “You have some external injuries time will take care of, but I want you to ice your shoulder, get your prescription filled, and rest. Keep your wounds clean. You can use an over-the-counter cream, but I’m going to give you an antibiotic, too, just to be on the safe side. I don’t want those wounds to become infected.”
She’d heard this before. “I’ll be fine,” she told the doctor.
“Then I’ll let the nurse finish up. She’s bringing a set of scrubs and slippers for you. Wasn’t much left of your nightgown when you arrived.”
Alison felt her cheeks redden. “Thanks.”
“Feel better, Alison,” the doctor said, handing her his card. “I have a private practice, if you feel you need a follow-up. Just call the office.” He stepped out into the hall, then poked his head back into the room. “Should I contact the police?”
“No! This is . . .” Unsure how to explain her injuries, she opted for: “Clumsiness, and too much to drink. I’ll call your office if I need to.”
The doctor nodded.
“Thank you,” Ali said, glad she didn’t have to stay the night. She hated hospitals. “For the clothes, and all,” she said before the doctor stepped out of the room.
“I can lend you some clothes, if you need them,” Tammy offered.
“I have plenty of clothes; they’re in the suitcase in my Jeep. But thanks. The scrubs will be okay for a while. Would you mind giving me a lift to the island?”
“I was planning on it, kid. We’re friends now, and friends help each other,” Tammy said.
A true Southern girl, Ali thought. “Sounds good,” she replied.
Ten minutes later, she was in Tammy’s Honda with the windows down, the midday heat even more miserable, since Tammy had no working air-conditioning. “Sorry about the air,” she said.
“It’s fine; I need fresh air,” Ali told her. She debated reporting her kidnapping to the local police. She guessed quite a few knew about the insanity taking place on the island. Maybe some of the police were even involved with the sick cult she’d witnessed. It was difficult for her to accept that there were people who took great pleasure in hurting a human being. She’d had her share of horrific experiences, but this . . . cult had to top the list. Why her? She hadn’t even moved into the cottage. For the umpteenth time, she questioned her decision. Enticed by the beach and the price of the cottage, she’d allowed her dream to override her common sense.
“I plan on getting a new car next year. Didn’t want to spend the money on a new air conditioner. I’m used to the heat,” Tammy said. “Been here my entire life. Heck, my parents didn’t have central air until I was a teenager. I have their place now, though I don’t use the air. Try to keep the electricity costs down.”
Ali smiled. It sounded like her new friend hadn’t lived a life of luxury. She certainly could relate to that. “It’s not a necessity.” Food and shelter had always been her main priorities.
When they reached Matlacha Pass, the bridge was open. A trawler at a very slow speed took a few minutes to cross. When the bridge closed, Tammy eased over the wooden slats, then accelerated, heading toward the gulf.
“I can’t believe this danged bridge is still working,” Tammy said. “You’d think someone woulda modernized it by now. Been this way as long as I can remember.”
“That’s what I’ve heard. Quaint, but I’m not too fond of it,” Ali told Tammy. “My Jeep is in the public lot. You can drop me off there, and I’ll get my things.” Pausing, she remembered her purse and keys were at Val’s. Had Val already left for Orlando to pick up Renée? If so, Ali would just wait on her deck until they returned.
“I ain’t dropping you off and leaving, kid. You’re gonna need some help until your shoulder is better.”