Chapter 14

On shift at the ER, Gigi confronts a hostile patient, Gus Johnson, who demands more oxycodone despite having reached his limit. After Everett Carlson re-evaluates Gus, he orders a small IV morphine dose, which quickly relieves the pain. The rapid relief, contrasted with oxycodone’s failure, makes Everett and Gigi question whether tolerance, dosing error, or possible drug-seeking behavior is at play.

Discussing it later at the café, Gigi cautiously shares the anonymous case, but Jess immediately recognizes Gus and defends him, noting Gus’s ranch work and character. Gigi remains uneasy, connecting the odd reaction to Jess’s ongoing investigation into local prescription drug distribution.

Wes Drummond abruptly intrudes on their booth, jittery and contrite. He admits calling someone named Lissy and, under Jess’s pressure to come clean, mutters that “he” is closing in—someone smart, obsessed with power, and intent on controlling the town. Before naming the person, Wes panics and leaves, heightening the sense of an unseen mastermind behind the drug surge.

After dinner, Gigi visits Jess’s bare, spotless house, but Jess insists on returning to the farmhouse, eager to be with her there. Their night becomes intensely physical and unrestrained without Rowen home, reinforcing their emotional connection and signaling a deepening commitment despite the growing external threat.