It was about noon when Doc Hart returned. She came in the door and looked around. "Oh, The old man decided that you wouldn't melt into oblivion if he left your side."
I had to laugh because I knew that very likely was what he was thinking.
She looked around a bit more then. "It's kinda slow in here."
I could tell She wanted to say more, but she didn't.
"Yeah." I said, There was nothing to it but to agree. After all It was the truth. "Pretty much like this all the time. Sometimes I can make a sale. I honestly don't know why Ambrose keeps it going. Or how he continues to pay me… But I know we are so grateful for each other."
As I was speaking, Doc Hart had moved over to the register, and I followed her. She opened her bag and pulled out a small amber vile, and handed it to me.
"There must be some reason." She said, adding. "This is your medicine. It will help to prevent infection and help with the pain."
I nodded, taking it from her, with a quiet thank you.
"Anna…" She said looking me in the eyes suddenly. "Do you mind if I ask… What exactly happened?... Are you in trouble?... Do you need help?...."
I placed the bottle gently on the counter before looking away from her, making myself busy behind the register again.
"I know it looks like I am dealing with something bad right now. But I promise I am okay. I can manage. You and Ambrose don't need to worry about me so. Okay?"
She didn't say anything else. But gave me a look that told me she was still very concerned.
"Two drops on the affected area, as needed for pain." She said clearly changing the subject now. She closed up her bag once more and started for the door. "If you experience any side effects, or have any questions, you know where to find me."
I nod. "Thank you June. If I need anything I'll be in touch."
She lingered a moment longer before leaving through the front door.
I sighed, and went to the back, standing in front of the mirror over the sink. I turned my head to the side making it easier for the medication to land on the wound… Instead of everywhere else. I applied the medication to my wound. And… Wished everyone wouldn't worry about me so… But. Maybe it's my fault for giving them a reason to worry.
Night came quickly, and before I knew it, it was time for me to go home. All I wanted all day long was to go home. After finishing my sweeping, I put all my equipment away for the day. Well.. Mostly. The rest I would take care of in the morning. I locked the front doors behind me, took a deep breath, closed my eyes, held my breath for a moment or so longer, before letting it go and slowly opening my eyes, looking up toward the moon.
This walk home… The moon was beautiful and full… Peace… For the first time since morning I felt true peace. I felt I could breath.
I always enjoyed my walks home. Tonight was even more pleasant than I expected. Despite the unnatural way things went. The peace and silence of a mostly empty town, except for the saloon. Lots of noise can be heard coming from those batwing doors, noise that I knew nothing about, as momma always told me to stay away. "Those places aren't meant for properladies." She would always say.
The peace and quiet of the night elsewhere however, was healing.... The light from the moon, radiating into my skin, healing the cells of my body... Was relaxing. I knew that, if nothing else, I was going to sleep well tonight.