Page 34 of Harry

“How is she?”

“Not well. She looks like she is on the verge of disappearing. I have to go.” He hung up and turned off the stove. He made the tea, before searching for the contact. A glance at the clock told him that it was almost nine, but he did not give a damn.

He called the number and waited for it to be connected. It took a few minutes which had him stamping his foot impatiently. “Dr. Reed?” He asked tersely when the woman answered.

“My name is Harry McGibbon. You might recognize Janelle’s number. I am her…,” he floundered a little bit as he wondered what the appropriate term was. “She is my girlfriend and she’s not doing so well. She was violently ill a few minutes before and she’s – her pulse is a little weak. I’m assuming you make house calls.”

“Harry McGibbon?”

“Yes.” He clipped.

“The Harry McGibbon?” He stopped in the middle of adding honey and felt his impatience increasing.

“Does it matter a hell of a lot? Can you come or not?”

“Yes, sir. Of course. I apologize. I will be right there.”

“Good.” He hung up and placing the steaming tea on a tray, made his way out of the room and upstairs.

She was still sleeping, and he knew he had to get her up.

Placing the tray onto the side table, he sat on the edge of the bed and shook her gently.

“Hey baby.” Her eyes flickered open.

“Bobby. My Bobby. You’re here.”

“Yes. I called the doctor, and she is on her way. I want you to drink this. I made tea.” He tugged her into his arms and was alarmed at how hot she was.

“Here baby. Careful, it’s hot.”

She was so weak. He had to hold the cup for her, but he was gratified to see that she was taking sips.

“Good. That’s good. Take more sweetheart.” He held the cup when she pushed it aside. And kept it up until she had finished the cup.

“How do you feel?”

“Hungry.” She whispered, leaning back against his chest. “How comes you’re here?”

“I just wanted to check in on my girl. Is that a problem?” He smoothed the tendrils of hairs clinging to her moist forehead.

“Are you…?” She shook her head. “Never mind.”

Tucking her fingers beneath her chin, he forced her to look at him. “I am bloody sorry. I have been an ass, and I cannot expect you to forgive me…,” her phone which he had put in his pocket beeped just then.

“That’s the doctor.” Kissing her on the forehead, he put her back on the pillows.

“Dr. Reed?”

“Yes.”

“How…?”

The woman was about the same age as him and Janelle and she stared at him as if he was the second coming. She was sleek and had obviously slapped on makeup for the visit. Her thick blonde hair was brushed back from her face and her green eyes were alive with interest.

“Dr. Reed.” His voice was terse and clipped, making it clear that it was just business. “Thanks for coming at such short notice. Let me take your jacket.” He slung it carelessly on the coat tree just inside the hallway.

“It’s my pleasure. I had no idea that you are the father.”

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