Chapter 133: True and False Love, Part 1

"Oh my." Cutter's hand froze in midair. "Egad." He swerved his face away, his wide gaze landing on Isabel. "Oh my." He cast a quick glance over his shoulder then turned around again, his face a deep scarlet.

"Now will you allow me to do it?" Isabel gave him a lopsided smile.

Cutter took a step toward the wall. He bent over, bracing his hands on his knees, and seemed to be having trouble breathing.

Sidestepping him, Isabel covered Hann with the other half of her waistcoat. "If you're going to be sick, please leave," she teased, but instantly her smile faded as her foot slipped on a puddle of bloodso much blood. "Cutter, tell me what to do." Her voice quavered.

Cutter's breathing settled, and he stood. "He's a womanall this time."

"Doctor?"

"Yes, … uh, wash himher. Wash away the blood and grime as best you can. I'll get the bandages." He knelt and dug in his satchel while Isabel removed the rest of Hann's coat and shirt and eased the sponge over her skin.