Erin Walker inhaled sharply as she slid the last pedal on the recumbent bike at Portland General's cardiac rehab gym. The hum of other patients working treadmills and rowing machines filled the room, punctuated by Beep—Beep—Beep from heart monitors. She steadied her breathing and glanced at the digital display: **20 minutes completed, heart rate 110 bpm.** Not bad for day three.
“Looking strong, Erin," called a familiar voice. She turned to see Ben Carter, in his firefighter gear but off-duty, leaning against the wall with a bottle of water in hand.
Erin dismounted and wiped her forehead. “Couldn't do it without your encouragement."
Ben grinned. “I'd be worried if you weren't."
Erin's lips curved. “I'm trying to be a model patient."
Ben held up a finger. “No 'trying.' *Be* a model pat
