FIRE 

By Tessa Harvey

    The paramedic was concerned about the infant's breathing. It was stabilising, but he was watching for signs of seizure. Alcohol is poisonous to a baby.
    But the adult male was also concerning him. He had been murmuring and complaining but was now mumbling incoherently. Glancing at the senior constable, he was pleased to note the officer was on high alert. 
    "Looks like a wee bit storm brewing," he said cheerily. "Canna have that noo." The accent was a little difficult but the other man patted his handcuffs in an unobstrusive way. 
    He had underestimated the child's father. "None of that," he stated, firmly. "I saw you. I can behave." The other man ignored this statement. The paramedic kept monitoring the infant. He was worried.
    They drew near to the hospital and he radioed ahead. "Urgent. Very sick infant. Please standby. Alcohol poisoning."

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