At Last....

It's a cold day in New York. The kind of cold that makes you hate yourself for being a smoker. "Emma" is doing better, but not making the kind of progress I was hoping for. After making sure she was settled, and getting her daily newspaper, I went out into the cold air of Carmel to have my a quick cigarette. As I stood there shivering, wondering why I haven't tried "the patch", I heard a man ask me for a light. I turned around, my eyes opened wide. Damn, I'd been caught off guard. Yes, it was Bobby. I smiled at him and handed him my lighter. Thank goodness it was cold, at least I could pass my trembling off due to the cold.

I was honestly glad to see him. I told him of the concerns I had about his mother's care. I recommended a new doctor her, one I have great confidence in- I know he truly cares for his patients, and with him, she'll have a chance at a better life. I could tell how tired he was. His eyes were dark and glazed. I reassured him that I would take care of her. I won't let anything happen, not as long as I'm here. I want him to be able to sleep at night. He needs to know, that he's not at fault.

As we both finished our cigarettes, I told him he couldn't tell anyone what we'd discussed- that I could lose my job for the information I've shared. He knew. He knew I conveyed what I did because I genuinely care about his mother's well-being. She was delighted when he and I walked into her room together. That's the first time I've seen her smile like that in weeks. I went over to make sure she was comfortable, and then told her I'd be at my station if she needed me. Of course, she wanted me to stay and visit with Bobby. As much as I honestly wanted to, I wanted to make sure he had the private time with his mother that he needed. I told her Bobby and I had already talked, and it was her time. He thanked me again for everything. I smiled and told him "anytime". He's a good man, "Emma" raised a true gentleman.