Several of the department’s staff were off work, sick with colds and various forms of flu. It was a strong strain of bug which had hit the hospital hard this year and her department wasn’t the only one suffering. Meetings had been cancelled, clinics were bursting at the seams and yet the hospital seemed to be operating with almost a skeleton staff. After seeing thirty patients, she quickly spoke to the clinic sister before heading off to the cafeteria. ‘Where are you going?’ a deep voice said from behind her. Jennifer spun around, feeling almost guilty at leaving the clinic but it would only be for a few minutes. ‘Jasper! You startled me.’ He fell into step beside her. ‘Coffee?’ he asked, his steps as eager as her own. ‘Most definitely. It’s just so busy that I need a little pick-me-up. My energy reserves are low and we still have half a clinic to get through. How about you?’ ‘Same. Although I did promise Louise I’d bring her back a coffee as well.’ She smiled.
