No Strings Attached novel (Clara and Ian) novel Chapter 347

Ryker clenched the doctor's wrist with a grip that betrayed his desperation. He knew getting to a hospital was out of the question in these conditions. Even the camp's rescue team wouldn't fare much better.

He slowly released the doctor. In a low, gravelly voice, he said, "Go ahead. Do it."

The doctor pulled out her surgical tools and set to work on Ian's wound.

"Hemostat!"

"Forceps."

"Sutures."

"Gauze."

Ryker stood by, effectively her assistant.

The doctor seemed barely in her twenties, yet her surgical technique was smooth and professional, which took Ryker somewhat by surprise.

An hour later, the bullet was removed from Ian, and the wound stitched up. Only then did the doctor straighten up, wiping the beads of sweat from her forehead. She said, "He needs complete rest for at least three days. He's got organ damage; no food allowed for now."

Ryker murmured an acknowledgment, then added a simple "thanks."

The doctor offered a slight smile. "Thanks for what? It's my job. Besides, he got hurt saving those kids. We're on the same side here, fighting for the same cause."

Ryker's dark gaze met hers as he handed her a bottle of water, asking, "How long have you been here?"

"About six months. It's pretty much been like this every day."

"Why would a young woman like yourself choose to be a Doctors Without Borders physician here? Aren't you scared of dying in such a place?"

She smiled faintly. "Healing the sick and injured is my calling. It's the same anywhere, but the need is greater here."

Twisting off the cap, she took a long drink, the untouched sweat still glistening on her complexion.