It was cold and dreary outside, with a gray driving rain that depressed the spirits. Her day had begun at six o’clock in the morning, and it was filled with constant problems. The hospital seemed to be full of gomers, all complaining at once. The nurses were surly and careless. They drew blood from the wrong patients, lost X-rays that were urgently needed, and snapped at the patients. In addition, there was a staff shortage because of a flu epidemic. It was that kind of day. The only bright spot was the telephone call from Jason Curtis. “Hello,” he said cheerily. “Just thought I’d check in and see how all our patients are doing.” “They’re surviving.” “Any chance of our having lunch?” Paige laughed. “What’s lunch? If I’m lucky, I’ll be able to grab a stale sandwich about four o’clock this afternoon. It’s pretty hectic around here.” “All right. I won’t keep you. May I call you again?” “All right.” No harm in that. “Bye.” Paige worked until midnight without a moment to rest, and when she was finally relieved, she was almost too tired to move.
