Page 19 of Deep Down

“You remember?” Alex pulled out his file and pen, watching him expectantly.

“Yes. I was doing my weekly training with Darren. We have always done some light workouts together, but when I got mugged, I asked Darren to teach me more things to defend myself. We started by Darren coming up behind me and me trying to get out of his hold. Once he taught me how to do a couple, I asked him to show me a headlock. He wasn’t sure initially. I think he thought I’d freak out. But I insisted. I was trying to get out of it, and we tripped. All I remember after that is a pain in my head and then nothing until I came to here.”

Craig had thought he’d done a good job of recreating the imagery for the story. He didn’t want Darren getting in trouble for something which wasn’t Darren’s fault.

Alex stared at him with a slightly narrowed gaze, and Craig held it, determined for him to see the truth—or what he’d said was the truth—in his. Eventually, Alex nodded.

“Okay.” He watched as Alex clenched his jaw. “Can you explain all the other injuries you have or the injuries I’m sure you have suffered from prior to those from last week? Because I highly doubt if those were the first set of injuries you’ve received from him.” There was a bite to his tone, his voice having got louder as the words rolled off his tongue.

“Look, I’ve told you time and time again, I am not being abused. Lay off! What does it take to get it through to you? God, you’re like a dog with a bloody bone!” Craig huffed.

Alex’s eyebrows were in his hairline, and his mouth was open.

Gloria came bustling through the door. “What is going on in here? I can hear you all the way to the nurses’ station. And if I can, the other patients can! Dr Wick, kindly leave Mr Talbot to rest. You’re needed elsewhere.” She concentrated on Craig. “And you need to calm yourself; otherwise, your blood pressure will make sure you won’t be leaving the hospital tomorrow either.” Her gaze pierced his.

Craig nodded.

Alex swung around to leave, but before he went through the door, he paused. “I’m sorry. Yet again. Get some rest.”

Visiting hours came and went with no sign of Darren. A nurse came in later and explained a message had been left saying Darren had not been able to get in but would be there first thing in the morning. He puzzled over what had kept Darren away but was left with his thoughts to keep him company once more. And the ringing echoes of Alex’s words.