Chapter 22: To Be Patient

"What are you doing here?" Robin asked with a puzzled look on her face.

"I took the job," Steven answered.

"I will be treated by ... you!"

"Do you mind that?"

"Of course, not. I am just surprised to see you here. What happened to the guard?"

"He will live. Don't worry about him."

"Good. My ankle is broken ... and I think my knee is broken too."

"Try not to think about that! I know what must be done. By the way, how much did you drink?"

"I should not be anaesthetized," Robin answered.

Steven nodded. A nurse brought the pictures, and he looked at them."

"Let me see!" Robin demanded.

"No. I am the doctor, you are the patient."

"OK!" she said reluctantly.

Another nurse came in and prepared to assist.

"How are you, Annie?"

"I'm fine, Dr. Mellors," said the nurse and blushed.

Steven examined Robin's swollen ankle, then gently slipped his hand under her heel and nodded toward the nurse. She took a firm hold on her knee. As he placed the palm of his left hand under her sole, Steven tightened his grip and started to pull. Robin's eyes widened and welled with tears.

"Scream if you want to, it helps!" Steven said calmly.

As if on cue, Robin started to scream with pain.

"It's over. It's almost over. Just a second, Robin!"

Steven stopped pulling. Robin took a deep breath and moaned. Her chin was trembling uncontrollably. Annie pulled the stocking off her right leg.

"Press her thigh down!" Steven said to the nurse as he turned his attention to Robin's dislocated knee.

Seizing her left leg above the ankle, he tugged.

"Ooooooh! Don't do that! Please, stop!" Robin cried.

Steven tugged again and saw the joint restoring its natural position.

"That's it, Robin. You are a brave doctor," Steven said and smiled.

"Thank you!" Robin muttered, sniffing.