Franklin peered through the taxi windshield as it drove up the long entryway to the hospital. Around him loomed a huge building shaped like a squared U. The main section lay directly ahead, with a wing running down each side of the road. In front of the main entrance was a circular drive for dropping off and picking up passengers.
The purchase Franklin had made sat in a box on the seat beside him. Best way to carry it, he figured. Not likely anyone would question what was inside.
As the taxi neared the circular section, Franklin spotted a crowd of people near the main hospital door. His eyes narrowed. He saw reporters, cameramen, and lots of fans. Some carried signs that said “Get well soon, Rayne.”
He pressed back against the seat. Not good. He didn’t want his face picked up on some camera.
The driver clucked his tongue. “It’s that rock singer. You know the one?”
“Yeah.” Franklin kept his voice even. “Drive around the circle and go back down a ways.”
“Whatever you say, sir.” The cabbie did as he was asked, then pulled over. “This okay?”
“Fine.” Franklin took out his wallet and paid the man. “Keep the change.” He lifted the box off the seat and got out.
As the taxi drove off, Franklin turned back to survey the scene in front of the hospital. He’d have to find another way in. He looked around, gauging the buildings.
Franklin spied a door and started toward it, then halted. Just getting inside wasn’t good enough. Nobody at the information desk was going to give him the room number for Rayne O’Connor.
Sticking his tongue beneath his upper lip, he gazed at the main entrance once more. Somebody in that crowd might have inside information. Someone with a relative who worked in the hospital …
His focus moved to the TV cameras. For the moment none of them were running.
He did have a second option. It was the main reason he’d bought a cell phone in the first place.
Maybe he’d use it. Maybe not.
Raising his chin, Franklin set out down the long stretch of pavement to join the crowd of Rayne O’Connor fans.