******
"Oh, sorry," a young man in blue scrubs came out of the room just as she was about to enter with Clay's snacks.
"That's all right," she smiled at him, as she pulled the curtain and saw that Clay was still lying down, his hand over his eyes. "Clay, are you all right?"
"Yes, I'm fine. These damn lights are giving me a fit though."
She looked around her and flipped one of the switches and the overhead fluorescent light went out, and she walked over to him. The nurse could just turn it back on when it was needed, she figured.
"I brought you some cheese crackers, and a soda." She set her cane against her chair and went to him. He pulled himself up on his elbows and eyed her. "What did he do - the tech? Do you want me to raise you up a bit?"
"Yes, that would be great." Clay took the crackers, and opened the package, popping one in his mouth. "Umm...Thank you. I needed this. He gave me all the shots, and I can tell they're working already."
"You're welcome." Mattie turned the crank at the foot of the bed. "How's that?"
"Good. Now I'll have a much better view of the doctor sewing me up," he laughed as he popped open the soda can and took a swig. "Sorry, I've never been good at being on this end of things."
They turned as another technician in scrubs came into the room.
"Mr. Adamore?" At Clay's less than enthusiastic nod, the young man continued. "I'm here to get you ready for your stitches."
"All right, I'll be in the waiting room." Mattie kissed him softly. "Send someone for me when you're done."
"Thank you, Mattie." Clay handed her the empty wrapper and soda can.
She grabbed her cane and tossed the items in the trash can, smiling at the young technician as she passed him.
"Be gentle with him, please?"
The young man nodded, seeming to find that request humorous. "He won't feel a thing." He turned toward Clay and flipped on the overhead fluorescent light.