Here's Lily (16 page)

“This one's okay?” the paramedic called to her.

“I don't think so,” Lily called back. “He says his stomach hurts. And his eyes look funny and his lips are blue and he's falling asleep.”

The paramedic's steps got faster, and he already had his little flashlight out when he got to them.

“Hey, fella,” he said to Thomas as he shined the light in his eyes.

“His name's Thomas,” Lily said.

“Stretcher over here!” the paramedic called out. “We're gonna have to take you to the hospital, Thomas,” he said.

“Mommy!” Thomas said.

“Mommy's going too, only she's getting a different ride. You'll see her when you get there.”

“You come with me.”

Thomas was looking right at Lily, his eyes trying hard to stay focused.

“Is this your sister?” the paramedic said.

“I didn't even know him until just now,” Lily said.

The paramedic gave a grim grin. “He sure likes you.” He went on doing things to Thomas as he talked. “Thanks for staying here with him. The other driver told us he thought the little guy was all right.” He grunted softly. “'Course, he has a reason to want him to be all right.”

Thomas whimpered, and Lily leaned down over him. “You will be okay, Thomas,” she said.

“Sure, he will. All right, fella. We're gonna put you on this stretcher and give you a wild ride. How would you like that?”

Thomas's face puckered weakly. “I want her to take me.”