He dialed the number from memory. It was picked up on the third ring.

"Yes?" No name, no identification. None was needed. You didn't call it by accident. Well, that's not entirely true. There was a story, a rumor, that it had happened once. A finger slips, an eight is entered instead of a five and well…

"I'm calling in that favor."

"Mr. Rippner. Surprised to hear from you after so long. Especially after that last…mishap. My, my. How have you been?"

He would not be baited.

"I'm going to give you an address. There's been a situation that is beyond my abilities."

"Ah. I see. Off the books, shall we say?"

"That's why I'm calling in what you owe me, yes."

The man chuckled. He could well imagine that the higher ups were not to know about this "situation". Rippner wasn't the golden boy anymore. It was a wonder he was even still around to place this call.

He must have been silent a moment to long because Jackson asked, "That won't be a problem, I trust."

Another chuckle. "No, my friend, not a problem. What is it that you need?"

"Whatever you need to treat a suspected fracture in the leg. Mostly likely the femur. Maybe multiple. I would suggest…"

"Bringing the portable x-ray, yes Mr. Rippner, I am aware of what to bring. Anything else?"

"I've stitched up various lacerations, but I'm concerned she has a grade three concussion and –"

"She?"

Fuck. "Yes, the patient is female. There also may be damaged to –"

"Oh, my dear boy. What have you gotten in to?" There was humor in his voice. This was too much, and it was all he could not to laugh.

Jackson was fast losing his patience. "I'm glad you find this so amusing."

The man snorted. He really couldn't help it. This was great.

"I can't tell you how much fun I'm already having and I haven't even met your lovely female patient yet."

You need him. You need him. Do not threaten. Do NOT threaten. "When can I expect your arrival?"

"Well, my boy, I believe I fit you into my schedule. I will be there in the morning."

"That's not –"

"Yes. It is." The humor was gone. He was unmovable. One did not dictate to him or demand, and Mr. Rippner was seriously close to that line.

Jackson paused, realizing. "Of course. I was just trying to make sure you understood the situation."

"Trust me. I understand, but I believe she will hold on for another twelve hours. I will see you tomorrow."

Jackson spoke through his teeth and looked towards the bedroom located upstairs. "Yes, sir."

"And Jackson?"

"Hm?"

"After this? We are even."