clouds.” Doc was leaning over me now inspecting my leg and ankle with that look only doctors get. That look that makes me nervous. I don’t like doctors and I am quickly not liking this one.
“It was an accident,” Ozias whispered looking at the floor. He was obviously humiliated and worried. The crease between is eyebrows returned and his lips were tight. I had to restrain from reaching my hand out to comfort him. My pain, as bad as it was, was numbing compared to my need to comfort this man, this total stranger. I couldn’t explain my need to make him feel better. I just knew I needed to.
“It was an accident,” I said and squared my shoulders. Both men looked at me then puzzled by my response. Ozias’ and my eyes connected and an understanding passed between us. He looked slightly relieved but the crease was still there.
“Look, Miss…Ozias, what is her name?” Doc was hovering over me but looking over his shoulder at Ozias. Ozias then went still and a look of guilt washed over his face, I assume, because he hadn’t asked my name. In all fairness I hadn’t asked his either and honestly, we were both preoccupied with the ridiculous situation to even think to ask.
Suddenly, I was angry. This doctor, whoever he was, definitely has an attitude and for some reason does not respect Ozias at all. I didn’t like being talked about like I wasn’t right there. He can ask me what happened and what my name is!
“Excuse me, Sir” I said in my most domineering Southern woman voice. “I feel that since I’m the one hurt and because Ozias and I just met 30 minutes ago, it seems only polite that you address these questions to me.” He and Ozias both jerked their heads in my direction so I continued. “Personally, I don’t care for your bedside manner. I appreciate you coming to check on me but I might fare better taking my chances at the ER tonight. If you could kindly tell me where the nearest one is I won’t take up another minute of your precious time.” I crossed my arms and held my chin up for emphasis.
Ozias stared at me in disbelief. Obviously no one spoke to Doc this way as even Doc had a shocked look on his face and was momentarily speechless. But then he surprised me and a smile broke out on his face and he actually laughed out loud. Loud enough to turn Mark’s and a few tenants’ attention to us.
“There’s no need for the southern belle attitude. I’m trying to help you, ok? There’s no need for you to go to the hospital, at least not tonight. You wouldn’t be seen until the early morning hours and from what I can tell, you’re not from here, and seem to be alone. That’s not the best idea for a girl like yourself to be alone.”
Southern belle attitude? Girl like me? What?! He was a condescending SOB and he hasn’t seen fiery yet! I was about to give him fiery when Ozias spoke.
“Dad, please. This is all my fault. Can you just look at her injuries and ascertain whether or not her ankle is broken or just sprained? Please, I’m sure she’s in pain and tired of being on a couch in the lobby. Just help her.” He looked at me apologetically. I nodded slightly to indicate I appreciated his standing up for me. And quite honestly, I was in pain and I was tired.
Doc sighed. “Well, what’s your name Miss?”
“Um, Adira. Adira Elizabeth McLeod.” As soon as I said my full name I was embarrassed. Maybe it was my Southern upbringing but I felt the need to tell them, mainly Ozias, my full name. Could I possibly be flirting at a time like this? Geez, I need my head examined more than my ankle at this point. Did I think by giving him my full name he would be able to find me later? I don’t know, but now I’m more embarrassed and I feel my cheeks flush.
“ Adira” I swear Ozias just whispered my name. We looked at each other then and a shudder passed through me.
Doc, completely oblivious to the connection between Ozias and me, starts to question me again. “So, Ms. McLeod, where