Page 11 of One Sultry Summer

I gave her the prescription. “Have this antibiotic filled at your pharmacy and take it once daily for ten days.”

“Thank you.”

“Remember, even if you feel better, continue to take the medication until it’s gone. You may want to take it after eating a meal, to avoid an upset stomach.”

“Okay.” I opened the door, and the patient followed me to the receptionist, where I had her make a follow-up appointment in seven to ten days, or sooner if the problem persisted.

The main door whooshed open, bringing thestale air from the outdoors into the office. I turned to see paramedics enter, wheeling an ambulance stretcher. I had them follow me, and out of the corner of my eye, I saw Mrs. Johnson was right behind them. My mother stood at the door; her face visibly shaken as she waited for more information about Mr. Johnson.

My mother is the pillar of the community. Her hair, once the color of brown sugar, is now showing signs of gray at her temples. My daughter steps out from behind her and grasps her hand. My heart aches seeing her beautiful, yet sad face.

I continued down the hallway where we opened the door to the examination room. The paramedics are efficient in their jobs and display kindness as they move Clay to the stretcher. His eyes meet mine, and he gives me a nod, a small way of telling me thank you and I’ll see you soon. He’s wheeled out to the waiting ambulance.

“I’m sorry I had to bring Emily, but there wasno time to leave her with anyone else.”

“Mom, it’s fine.”

“If you don’t mind, I’m gonna take Nancy to the hospital and wait with her.”

“Thanks, Mom. I know she’ll be well cared for and don’t worry about Emily. I’m wrapping up for the day.”

She squeezes Emily’s hand. “I know I promised to make chocolate chip cookies with you, but I need to be with my friend.”

Her eyes reflect understanding. “We can make cookies anytime. Be with your friend, Nana.”

“Bye, sweetheart.”

“Bye, Nana.”

Together, we watch my mother open her car door for Mrs. Johnson, then gets in herself. They drive off down the road and out of sight. “Come on sweetie. I have some charts I need to finish documenting.”

I open the door to my office and Emily runs and takes a seat on my couch. The same oneI've slept on while working late nights. She sits quietly playing with her doll. I sit at my desk and note my last two patients. The time slips away from me and before I know it, Emily has fallen asleep.

I feel guilty getting carried away with my work. I can’t say the patient charting couldn’t have waited. I placed the files in the middle of the desk. Quietly, I removed my stethoscope and lab coat and placed them on the edge of the desk.

With the gentle placement of my feet, I walk over to Emily and her doll, scooping them into my arms.

“Daddy?”

“Shh. Go back to sleep pumpkin. We’re going home.” She closed her eyes, and I kissed her forehead. As I walk into the lobby, the nurses and staff have all left for the day.

“Dr. Woods?” I glance to my left. Nurse McDermott takes a step closer and sees Emily. Her voice softens. “I wanted to apologize aboutearlier.”

“Don’t give it a second thought.” I pushed the door open, and she held it, allowing me to exit. She leaves as well and locks the door. Her footsteps echo close behind. Before reaching my truck, I unlock it with my key fob. I place Emily in her car seat and buckle her up. When I close the door, nurse McDermott is standing a few feet away.

“I’m sorry Wyatt.”

“Nurse McDermott….”

“You’re never going to see me as anything more than your coworker, are you?”

I shake my head. “I don’t think so. I don’t have feelings other than friendship for you.”

“Is it because you’re still mourning your wife?”

My eyebrows furrow. “Please leave my wife out of this,” I said with a sharp tongue. “I suggest you say goodnight and stay out of my personal business.” I opened the door to the truck cab and sat inside, looking at my lap, trying to calmdown. She had definitely crossed the line. When I looked up, she was finally walking away towards her car.

As I drove home, I wondered if I had misled her in any way. I don’t think so. I’ve never given her any indication that we’re more than coworkers. This encounter makes me feel uncomfortable. I think it might hinder my ability to collaborate with her effectively at work. Why did she mention my wife? I don’t openly discuss Lauren, and I certainly don’t share anything about my nonexistent love life. They only see and hear about the fixups that everyone is trying to do.

---