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And that would put hi killed

“Hey”

Sloane nearly jumped out of her skin as Derek appeared in the bedroom doorway

“Hi” She went for honest; lying would be pointless and stupid He’d already seen her reaction at the sound of his voice “You scared the hell out of me”

“Why? I live here—for now” Crossing over, Derek poured two glasses of the Chianti they had yet to drink, and offered her one “Here You look like you could use this”

“You’re right I could” Sloane took the proffered glass Her first sip was ht hand treoblet to her left

Derek’s sharp gaze took in the enuine concern in his voice

“A grueling OT session thisto the occupational therapy she still religiously, and rigorously, endured

The Hospital for Special Surgery at New York Weill Cornell Medical Center was the best, and so were Dr Charles Houghton, her surgeon, and Constance Griggs, her hand therapist

“Connie’s deterht hand first,” Sloane added wryly “Then again, she’s always been an optimist”

“Maybe you’re ready”

A dubious shake of her head “My dexterity’s still not where it needs to be Sure, I can fire my weapon now It would be pretty sad if I couldn’t, since I’”

“That’s a huge step for soo”

“Fine I’ve ress But er finger’s still weak I’ myself as hard as I can, and then some But I’m just not there”

“You will be”