Chapter 30-Wednesday, 7:23PM

Herb woke up with a start. The fog was gone. The pain somewhat diminished. He opened his eyes and shouted, “Get me a doctor! Now!”

Seconds later, Dr. Sparga appeared. “What is it?” the physician asked.

“I’m ready to leave,” Herb said tersely. “My pain is gone. I need to get to work.”

“Chief,” the doctor began. “I don’t think that would be wise in your condition.”

“My condition?” Herb shouted. “I’m fine. I’ll sign whatever papers I have to sign. Release you of all liability. Whatever it takes. I’m leaving.”

“But sir,” Sparga interjected.

“Don’t but sir me,” Herb growled. “Get the paperwork and get me out of here. I’ve got work to do.”

The fury in Herb’s eyes sent the doctor scurrying. Minutes later, he was back with a half dozen forms. “You understand that you are being released against my better judgment,” Sparga said as Herb scribbled on the fourth dotted line.

“I understand very clearly,” Herb snapped. “I also understand that there are killers on the loose and I’ve got to stop them before they strike again.”

The chief slapped the pen down on the clipboard. All six forms signed. “Now, were are my clothes?”

“They’re in the closet,” the doctor said. “Along with your phone. The fire department found it while cleaning up the scene. They dropped it by about fifteen minutes ago.”

“Thanks, doc,” Herb said. “I’m sorry I’ve been such a bad patient. Maybe next time I can stay for awhile.”

With that Herb turned and walked out the door. He was a bit shaky on his feet, but he’d make it.