*Six Months Later*
"Hmm," I took another glance at my patient's chart, "Just in for a routine check-up, Ms. Parker?"
"That's right, Dr. Jackson," She said, smiling.
"Should be in and out no problem," I said, returning the smile and putting on my gloves.
"How's everything been with the kids? It's been a while since I've seen you." I said, taking a glance into her ears.
I like to create conversations with my patients, just to make them more comfortable, and it makes them more likely to tell me the truth about a lot of their cases. You'd be surprised how many don't.
"They've been good! Kiara just started middle school and Marcus just started his freshman year. They grow up so fast!" She laughed lightly.
"It's funny how time flies, that's for sure." I laughed along, "Alright, time to check your eyes, look directly into the light for me, Ms. Parker."
As I pulled away, she began to speak, "You know Dr. Jackson, you remind me of my third husband."
"Oh, really? How many times have you been married?" I asked, finishing up her chart as the appointment was coming to an end.
"Two." She said coyly.
I chuckled to myself, "Mrs. Parker, that might've been the best line I've ever heard from a patient."
"Eh, well, the older you get, the bolder you get." She said, shrugging her shoulders.
She was a sweet older woman. She had adopted two kids, both of which were 10 and 13 when she took them in, and was pushing 66. It was always a delight to see her.
"Well, you are in tip-top shape, Ms. Parker. I'll see you soon, but hopefully, in six months for your next check-up." I joked, walking her back out into the lobby.
"You have a good one, Dr. J, thank you!" She laughed, waving goodbye.
I yawned walking back into my office, today was a good day, but a long one.
I sat down at my desk and began doing some charts as most of my coworkers had already gone home, leaving me with peace and quiet.
After about an hour of nothing but typing and filling out results, my phone began to ring.
I answered happily, "Well, hello, Chris, to what do I owe this pleasure?"
"Uhh.. is that doctor-speak for I'm excited to go to this party tonight?" He asked, laughing.
"Oh, your work party, I forgot." I said.
"Come on, man! It'll be fun, we get to dress up in suits and ties, and maybe meet a few ladies."
I could see his smirk from across town, "Well, that is an intriguing reason. I'll be there."
"Can't wait to see you man, I'll send you the address." He said.
"Alright, thank you," I said.
We both bid our goodbyes as I began to logout of my computer and gather my things.
About six months ago, I met my best friend Chris after my first session of therapy. I walked into a small restaurant and he was sitting behind me where he was all alone too. We began making small talk and realized we had so much in common, and from that point on, we were the best of friends.
The past 6 months have been extremely emotional for me, what a shocker. But, I have made a significant amount of progress. I've been able to reconnect with my brothers, make new connections with other people and ladies, and finally begin to find peace with everything that happened with Maria. Plus, I found a new and better clinic to work at.
