Carter's Choice
A blizzard descends on Chicago. A heroic security guard, shot when he interrupted a rape, cannot be saved. Paramedic Powell brings the rape victim to the e.r. Police capture the critically injured serial rapist. Carter and the staff reluctantly save him. Del Amico is angered by Carter's treatment of the rapist.
To Weaver's chagrin, the hospital board votes to negotiate with Synergix for an emergency department management contract. Weaver accuses Ellis of dating her to help get the contract. But she is mistaken. He withdraws the proposal. After the weapons incident, Weaver finally allows Jerry to return to the day shift.
Cynthia informs Greene that her landlord wants her to sign a six-month lease. She hints that she'd like to move in with Greene and becomes very upset when he prefers helping with her rent. Meanwhile, Carla wants to return to work and place Reese in the hospital day care. But Benton is opposed to any outside care for their son. He meets Carla's new boyfriend, Roger McGrath (VICTOR WILLIAMS). And Corday suggests a liaison with Benton. He agrees to a game of darts--but nothing more.
Ross sees Hathaway comfort Powell and believes she is publicly humiliating him. Hathaway reminds him of all his past indiscretions and confesses she needs a little time. Eventually Ross tells her that he'll give her all the time she requires.
A mentally challenged pregnant clinic patient, Mary (LILY KNIGHT), and her husband, Robert (DAVID PAUL SOMMER), walk into the e.r. She's in labor. After the delivery, her sister tells Hathaway to contact a social worker and have the baby taken away from Mary and Robert because they are incapable of raising a newborn. Hathaway disagrees but contacts the social worker, who concurs with Hathaway. The baby stays with its parents.
