Page 39 of Mistaken Intention

“In which case, I’m not only very disappointed, but I’m sorry to have to admit, I’m not sure I have one.”

“You do. You even have a memory. We just have to find ways of triggering it.”

“I’ll take your word for that.”

She turns, perching on the edge of the mattress, and reaches over for the box she brought in earlier. I’d forgotten all about that, and I watch as she pulls out a large book, which she holds out in front of her.

“I’m gonna show you some pictures and I want you to tell me what you think they are. If you don’t know, just say so, and we’ll move on.”

“Okay.”

She opens the book, turning it around, and flips the page. I study it for just a second and look up at her. “It’s a cat.”

She smiles. “And the next one.”

She turns the page again. “An elephant.”

“Good…” She moves on… and on, and I identify everything she shows me with no difficulty at all.

As she closes the book, I shake my head. “I don’t understand. Why can I recall what all those things are, but I don’t know who I am?”

“Because the brain works in mysterious ways. Don’t be downhearted. The fact that you recognized everything in the book is a good sign… so cheer up.”

“I’ll cheer up when I can take a shower. I feel awful.”

She tilts her head, which is just as cute as the last time she did it. “Who says you can’t take a shower?”

“Me. I’m so dizzy.”

“I know, but I can help you if you want.”

She’s blushing again, even as she’s speaking. “Is that allowed?”

“Of course it is, if it’s what you need. I’m here to look after you.”

“Well… I guess you’ve seen it all before.”

“You’d be amazed. In this line of work, we see just about everything.”

“I’m not sure whether to feel relieved or scared.”

She shakes her head, smiling. “Just sit there, and I’ll be back in a minute.”

She puts the book away and gets to her feet, going over to the door and letting herself out without another word. Onceshe’s gone, I glance out the window, staring down at the cars in the parking lot. I wonder for a moment if I can drive, but I can’t remember, and before my mind drifts off into that tortured void, I close my eyes and think of Josie instead. It’s a safer place to be…

“Are you ready?” Josie’s voice startles me and I open my eyes. She’s back in the room and I stare across at her, unable to stop myself from smiling. Is she going to do that to me every time she comes into the room?

I hope so.

“Ready for what?”

“You said you wanted a shower.”

“Did I?”

“Yes.”

I don’t remember that, but I can’t see any reason she’d make it up, and she’s carrying a towel, so I guess it must be true.

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