Bentley managed not to jump - quite a feat - but at this point it was true; the hardest part was over. Even the doctor had tension that was gradually easing. He tied off the bandages, beginning to wrap the wound in a protective casing.

"Just about done here," he announced.

"I'll give you a heavy sedative for the trip back, James," Cambria said, smiling. "Knock you right out."

"Oh, shut up," he responded, light in voice, humoring Cambria now that everything was winding down. "I'll give you a heavy sedative. My fist."

Cambria laughed, patting his friend on the shoulder.