“I don’t understand, you said vagina and—”
The woman smiled. “I like to keep Uma on her toes.”
“Ah. Make her uncomfortable, you mean?” Ms. Lloyd gave a little shrug, and George nodded. People did the strangest things for a little attention. “Okay. Is it bumpy?”
A sniff. “Yes.”
“All right. It’s probably not something you contracted from…anyone. Why don’t I take a look at it, and I’ll prescribe you something if you need it.”
Another sniff before the woman rose and pulled off a pair of dark polyester trousers circa 1978.
A quick look confirmed what she’d already assumed.
“It’s a fungal infection, Ms. Lloyd. We’ll get you set up with a cream to apply, and that should be—”
“Did I get it from him?”
“Ah…not necessarily, but it does sometimes occur. I would recommend treating both of you at once. I also would recommend more…breathable fabrics, if possible, this time of year in particular. Cotton underwear and cotton pants would be best. Would you like me to include a prescription for your, ah…partner?”
“He’ll get his own.”
“Fair enough. Is there someone who can pick it up for you?”
Ms. Lloyd gave her a duh look before answering. “Uma, of course. Don’t call it in—just give it to her, will you?”
“Certainly.”
“What do I owe you?”
“Nothing,” said George. She’d seen the state of the house outside. This wasn’t a rich woman, and there was no point charging her for what had turned out to be a pretty routine, if somewhat atypical, visit.
After taking her leave, she headed back over to Uma’s house, scrip in hand.
“Knock knock,” she called in through the front screen door.
“Come in! We’re in the back.”
George walked inside, loving this house, so similar to hers, only bigger, and in much better shape.
In the kitchen, she found Uma and Ive sitting at the table, looking at…oh, crap. A book of baby names.
“Oh, wow. Are you guys…?”
Uma smiled, bright and happy-looking. “Yes! We’re having a baby!”
“My goodness, that’s wonderful!” George said, meaning it. Really meaning it, because she couldn’t imagine a more deserving couple. A more loving pair.
“We just found out, and Ive drove all the way into C’ville to buy this book.”
“Yeah, didn’t want the Blackwood gossips spreadin’ the news.”
George smiled, hard. “Any ideas so far?”
“Oh, no. I mean. I’m only nine weeks along, so…”
“Don’t know if it’s a boy or a girl yet, but I’m hopin’ for twins,” said Ive in his slow voice, and the sweet, happy look on his face made George want to cry. With joy, she was pretty sure. With joy.
* * *
