“There’s not much I can do beyond cleaning it up and giving you a non-stick bandage.”
“Thanks.”
I nodded. “I’ll be right back.”
“Thanks, Doc. I mean Madi.”
I shivered at the familiarity in his tone.
“You’re welcome.”
Outside the closed door, I took a calming breath. I had a nagging feeling Paul was intentionally hurting himself so he could come here, but accusing him felt dirty, so I shoved it down until I could talk to Carol.
Maybe he’s just clumsy.
Regardless of why he was here, I had a responsibility to treat him. And I’d do it with respect and compassion.
As I wound the non-stick bandage around his hand, I reminded Paul to clean and re-wrap the wound daily.
“Guess I’m lucky. The burns aren’t as bad as I thought.”
“I guess you are.”
“Hey, I heard about the fire.” My shoulders tensed. “What happened?”
Not wanting to open that can of worms, I played down the incident. “Looks like some kids got careless. It was no big deal.”
“I’m glad. Fire can be dangerous.” He lifted his hand as evidence. “I would know.”
“Thank you. Remember to keep the wound clean and change the dressing daily.”
“Will do.” He hopped off the exam table. “Hey, any chance you’re free tonight? I feel like I owe you a beer or something for putting up with me.” He tried to sound casual, but I could see the determination in his eyes.
“You don’t owe me anything.” Remembering Matt rescuing me at the bar, I added, “I have a date tonight.”
Paul didn’t need to know it wasn’t true.
“Maybe another night.”
Keeping my voice firm, I said, “I don’t date patients, remember?”
“It wouldn’t be a date. Just friends having a drink.”
Dude doesn’t give up easy.
“Paul, please stop asking. I’ll draw up your care instructions while Alice checks you out.”
After Paul left, I asked Alice, “Can you add a note to Mr. Bunson’s file that he can only see Dr. Greenfield?”
“Sure thing. He ask you out again?”
“He did. Maybe he’ll get the hint if I’m not available to treat him.”
“Done.”
“Thank you.” I sighed. I thought I’d finished dealing with guys like Paul when I left the Navy.Guess not. “Who’s next?”
When it was time for lunch, I warmed up the chili my mom had made for Jack, Meg, and me.
