Chapter 14

“I know it’s hard but it’s important that you don’t fight us right now. We’re just trying to help you. You’re in a really difficult situation being in a new territory with leadership you don’t know or understand. I get it. I really do. Is there anything we can do that will help you relax?”

“Xanax.”

“You take a sedative when in the hospital?”

I nod slowly as I attempt to reach for the mask.

“Let me put the mask on you. I promise it will help you.”

I shake my head trying to get away as he brings it close again. He lets go of my hand as my wheezing worsens from the stress, gently placing it on the back of my head while finally placing the mask on my face.

“Just breathe Cole. I won’t strap it to you yet but you need to breathe.”

I try to fight but he moves with me, keeping the mask gentle on my face allowing me the time I need to accept it. “Angela, do we have any Ativan here or is it only at General?”

“I stock the half milligram dose here. How much?”

“Let’s start with two pills.