Nirvana Effect

31



“Hello, Diane. I have returned,” Edward told the receptionist. She was watering a plant in the waiting area.

“My name is actually Duiyon,” she replied, setting down the watering pitcher.

“Well, hello Duiyon.” He pronounced it correctly, much to her delight. “Is the doctor in?”

Duiyon covered her mouth, troubled. “Oh, she just left.”

“When?”

“Less than a minute ago. I haven’t even had time to lock up.”

“Is there a back door she leaves out of?” he asked hurriedly.

“In the second exam room.” Of course. That’s where Callista was pointing. “If you hurry you might catch her.”

Edward started to leave but Duiyon kept talking. “She seemed to be wondering why it took you so long to come back. She was troubled.”

We have a lot of catching up to do. “Thank you,” he said as he rushed past her to the back door. She grabbed his wrist and jerked him back.

“Priest,” she said, shoving her face in front of his. She was surprisingly strong. “…or whatever you are…do not break her heart. She’s already had her heart broken. There is nothing left to break.” Edward’s mouth opened but there was nothing to say.

“Hurry!” she said. She pushed him onward.