What They Didn't Tell Us

Chapter 4 HIM

"Do I really have to go in there? The last time we saw each other she scratched me half to death" I say worried about my own health if I enter the room.

"Don't you want to help people?" Ryder asked curiously.

"Of course but-" I object.

"No buts. Help her." Ryder said, putting emphasis on 'her'.

Jeez. I guess he makes a point. Though, I am a little weary.

I look at the door and back at Ryder who gives me an impatient look. I take a deep breath and turn the cold door knob that rotates with a click. I push the metal door and walk into the gloomy room.

I reach to the left with my arm as I enter and switch on the lights. I look down and patient number 654719 is staring up at me from the floor. I notice tears in her dark brown eyes as she moves some of her hair behind her ear. She seems scared and alert, yet unsure.

I step forward and raise my hands slightly showing my empty palms.

I need to show her that I'm not a threat. I still think of the cold and scared words she yelled at me when we first met... And how hard she scratched me. I hope that was just adrenaline and not her actual strength. If it was, and I get on her bad side, I'm screwed.

"Hi. I'm your nurse..." should I give her my name? Maybe my last name? Nurse Miller... No thanks.

"You can call me Chrys," I continue, unsure.

"Who sent you." She says sternly.

Shivers creep down my spine. Just be normal. Yeah, that'll work.

"The hospital officials. I'm here to check on how you are doing," I say with a voice crack. Not as normal as I hoped.

"Oh, I'm doing just fine. It's not like I was just kidnapped, saw my best friend get shot right in front of me, got separated from my only living friend, and am trapped in a room going hungry. I am all good, nurse. Thank you for checking in." She said with a tense, sarcastic voice that rippled through me and made me shiver, once more.

I stand there not knowing what to say. What the hell happened. What if she is some kind of outlaw? What other reason is there for her story? Why would they bring her here? This room gives me the creeps. I felt trapped as soon as I walked in. She has been here for hours.

The awkwardness is straining. The silence seemed like forever.

I have an idea.

"Well, if you are hungry, I can get you something to eat." I caught the flinch of surprise that appeared on her face and called that a victory.

I smile.

"I'll be right back," I say.

I turn and walk back to the entrance of the small metal prison. They should really renovate this hospital.

I shoot her another quick grin and close the door on my way out.

I take my keys out and put one in the lock, and turn the key.

Doctor Phillips showed me the break room when I first got here. I think I remember the way. I really need to get the hang of this hospital quickly.

Especially its patients.

Criminal or not.

I take a left, passing the area with the red sofa and the yellow table. I look at the pale white wall and notice a sign that says "donut and pizza day" and points in the direction of the breakroom.