I protested, feet digging into the linoleum floor. “Just stop for a second and let me explain.” My old Converse sneakers streaked across the surface, followed closely by an annoying squeal that reverberated throughout the all-too-silent E.R. The sole nurse at the entrance looked up from her perch—spared me no more than a single glance before turning her attention back toward the screen in front of her. “All I ask is for five minutes.” Another yank and the cop walking me in stumbled a bit. “Cut it out,” he spat out from between clenched teeth, his hard brown eyes daring me to make another uncooperative move. His hand on my arm tightened, finger nails dug in, and I winced at the force he used to push me forward. Asshole. “Officer Anderson, I ask that you reconsider.” Taking in a deep breath, I let it out slowly before turning to look up at him from beneath my long lashes. “This isn’t necessary and you know it.
