Page 29 of Amnesia

“I pulled Amnesia out of the lake,” he explained. He didn’t seem surprised at all the hospital staff would be talking about him.

I thought it was rude.

And slightly amusing. He definitely was a guy worth mentioning.

“It’s nice to meet you,” the doctor said formally. “I’m sorry to interrupt. However, I have an appointment with Amnesia.”

“We can do it later,” I said, in no hurry to see Eddie leave.

“My schedule is full today, and given the earlier events, I think we should talk.”

I opened my mouth to argue, suddenly ready to do just that.

“It’s okay, Am. I have to get to work anyway. The place can’t open without me.” His eyes met mine, his lips offering a reassuring smile.

I pleaded with my stare for him to not to leave me here.

His body language changed from relaxed and soothing to nearly formidable. Turning his back, he spoke to the doctor. “Can you give us a minute? I’d like to say bye.”

The doctor seemed mildly surprised, but she inclined her head. “I’ll be just outside,” she stated before the door latched behind her.

I fell back against the pillows.

Eddie sat on the edge of the chair again, positioning himself toward me. Lifting his eyebrows, he asked, “How long do you think it will take her to get tired of waiting?”

I laughed. “Two seconds.”

Eddie snickered.

“I thought you were leaving.”

His reply was so simple. “You want me to stay.”

A feeling of selfishness came over me. “I do.” I admitted. “But I know you can’t.”

“If it’s what you want, it will happen.”

I tilted my head, a chunk of hair hitting my chin. “Didn’t you say the store wouldn’t open without you?”

“I do have the key.” His voice was entirely ornery.

I giggled. “Go to work, Eddie.”

“What about you, Am?” he asked, searching my face with his stare.

“I’ll be fine,” I said, but I must not have been too convincing, because he called me out.

“Liar.”

“I just… They don’t believe me.”

Eddie thought about my words, sat forward, and held out his hand for mine. I surrendered almost immediately. His touch made me feel connected to something. To someone. “Do you believe someone tried to kill you last night?”

I didn’t even have to think about it. “I really do.”

“Then don’t let them change your mind.”

“Eddie?” I whispered.

---