“Thank you,” he responds before ending the call with Dr. Tilly. As instructed, he makes an immediate second call to arrange for an appointment through the surgery for the afternoon. Fortunately, a cancellation lands him a slot.

He waits until close to the appointment time to enter the building, and sits until he is called to see her. As he walks back, he tries not to favor his right leg too much, but it is noticeable.

“...thanks again for agreeing to see me.”