Blood had started to coagulate and become sticky. Karen coughed, and a large pool of dark blood trickled out.The two paramedics eyed each other, reali...zing their patient was in serious condition. Karen looked from one to the other. “It’s serious, isn’t it? I was a nurse at Memorial. Please help my baby! I can’t lose our baby!” She begged, grabbing Jim by the jacket sleeve.They managed to squeeze the stretcher into the bathroom and lifted Karen onto it, then the family followed her out to the. God, I haven't cooked for a group in forever. Hope I can remember how."Carol said, "We will help you, of course. You only have to do the planning and serious work. We can do the shopping and other details." She then giggled, "Of course, if you invite Mike, it will be his first experience." I cooked enough meals in France that I think he knows I know which end of the frying pan to use. I just hope he doesn't hold my friends and family against me."Carol was fidgeting. "Derrick, I need to talk to. Not constricting, just firm like a lover’s hug.Her mind swirled with wonderment, ablaze with ardent admiration for anything this ocean had to offer.Was this happening? Was this another mind-fuck? Was this what had earlier slammed into the hull?“What do you want?” she spoke out softly, not expecting an answer.Her breathing was shallow, in short, rapid breaths. Her head spun behind following the serpentine appendages to where they traipsed over the sides of the boat, one port, one starboard like. “That’s so impressive,” Grace found herself saying, “how you took on a wounded guy half your size with his hands tied.”“Get used to it kid,” growled Boris, “this place was made to deal with ragheads. See how we deal with smart mouths too.”“Boris,” Xenia finally appeared from round the side of the jeep. She didn’t sound surprised, or even disappointed; just limiting. Boris let go of Mo and Grace helped him up and put her arm round him. He stood there, dazed.She looked around. On the right were.