“I see the nurse’s station.”
Reaching the counter, Carlita let Elvira do the talking. “We’re here to see Sonny Skidz. The front desk told us he was in room 8212.”
“He is.”
“Thanks.” Elvira and Carlita turned to go.
The woman stopped them. “He’s only allowed two visitors at a time. You’ll have to wait your turn.”
“He has someone in his room?”
“He’s a very popular person.” The clerk directed the women to empty chairs in the waiting room and promised to let them know when it was their turn.
“I should use the restroom.” Carlita pivoted. “Too much coffee and tea during the party.”
“I think I saw a sign for it down the hall.”
“Thanks.” She strolled past the nurse’s station, making her way in the general direction Elvira had indicated. She somehow got turned around and ended up in a wing of patient’s rooms.
She stopped a hospital worker, who told her how to find the nearest restroom, tucked away in the corner, only steps from where she and Elvira were told to wait.
Backtracking, she walked past Elvira.
“Where are you going?”
“To the bathroom. It’s down here and around the corner.”
“So, you didn’t go?”
“No. I’ve been wandering around and finally had to ask someone.”
The desk clerk stepped over. “Mr. Skidz is ready for his next visitors.”
“I have to…”
“It can wait.” Elvira grasped Carlita’s arm and propelled her forward. “I don’t want to miss our turn. We won’t be long.”
The woman stopped in front of an open door. “This is his room. He has more visitors, so I suggest you limit your visit to fifteen minutes.”
“Thanks.” Elvira marched into the hospital room while Carlita trailed behind.
As they drew closer, she noticed a pale Sonny lying in the bed, an IV tube hooked up to his arm.
“Hey, Sonny.” Elvira gave him a friendly wave. “You’re looking much better.”
“Thanks.” The man offered Carlita a hesitant smile. “Hello.”
“You remember Carlita.” Elvira nudged her forward. “She’s the owner of Ravello’s.”
“I’m sorry about what happened,” Carlita apologized. “Thank goodness a paramedic was on hand and able to help figure out what was wrong.”
“One minute I’m fine, chowing down on fettuccine and breadsticks.” Sonny made a diving motion with his hands. “The next I’m on the bathroom floor puking my guts out.”
“But you’re recovering,” Elvira insisted.
“I thought I was, but I’m feeling nauseous again, like I did when I first got sick.” Sonny reached for the large fountain drink sitting on his bedside stand, the kind purchased from convenience stores. “I’m also feeling a little woozy. My friend brought a drink. Hopefully, it’s not spiked with booze.”
“Spiking your drink would be a terrible trick to play on you.” Carlita noticed the clear container was almost empty. “I’m sure you’re dehydrated.”
