Chapter Eight
“Sir, I can return to duty tonight. I’m not in that much pain. I’ll manage.”
Aden crossed his arms and leaned against the doorframe. He admired the lieutenant’s determination, but a concussion was not to be treated as frivolous.
“As much as I need you, I can’t permit that,” he said. “You’d only be a detriment. Besides, without a proper medic on board, I can’t take risks with my crew. You’re too important to this mission.”
Tatton offered a weak smile. “Thank you, sir.”
The lieutenant’s earlier refusal of Ceteroll crossed Aden’s mind. “I’m sure the substitute pain medication isn’t as effective, either. Rare that a man refuses Ceteroll.”
Adjusting his shoulder, Tatton glanced away. “Sir, I’ve never used it and I never want to use it.”
“Why?”
“Because I’ve seen what it ca
