The Switch—hctiwS ehT

Kimberley stood in line at the cafeteria, glancing at the sandwiches, when a voice startled her. “Hello there, we meet again.” She turned to find Richard standing next to her, juggling a cup of steaming hot coffee, trying not to burn himself. She smiled in response. “Oh. Hi.” He watched to see which sandwich she was going to select. He finally coached her. “The egg salad or ham sandwiches are the best.” He then waited to see if she was going to take his advice. Kimberley chose the ham sandwich and moved along the line. Reaching the cash register, she reached into her pocket to pull out a five-dollar bill. Richard stepped ahead of her and spoke to the cashier. “She’s with me.” Kimberley objected, “Thank you, Dr. Jackson, but I’m capable of paying for my own food.” He leaned close to her and whispered, “I insist.” Kimberley nodded. “On second thought, I will let you pay for it. After all, the only reason I’m buying it is the food in this hospital is so awful. My friend is starving.” Richard laughed. “Hospitals aren’t supposed to be known for their good food. Besides, if they were, our patients would never leave.” He then asked, “Oh by the way, how’s your friend?” Kimberley responded, “Hungry.” Richard got brave and asked, “Will you join me for coffee?” “I really should get this sandwich to my friend.” He conceded. “Great, then I’ll go with you and finally meet her.” Kimberley froze and quickly added, “On second thought, Doctor, I’d love to have coffee with you.” Smiling, Richard backtracked to pick up a cup of coffee for her. They found an empty table and sat down. Kimberley was unsure of how to start their conversation. Knowing she had to be clever, she inquired, “So Dr. Jackson, how long have you been working at the hospital?” Richard studied her. “Please, call me Richard. I’ve been here for just over a year.” Kimberley nodded and blew on her cup of coffee before taking a sip. Richard confessed, “I’ve got to admit that I’ve seen you several times at the pool.” Kimberley relaxed a bit. “I swim there almost every day of the week—that is, when I’ve got time.” “And what is it that you do when you aren’t swimming?” Kimberley was very proud of her new job. “I’m an elementary school teacher. Kindergarten to be more specific.” Richard leaned forward in interest and asked, “So you live locally?” Kimberley was afraid to reveal too much about herself so answered cautiously. “I’ve lived here most of my life.” “So you weren’t born here?” Kimberley wanted to be in control of the conversation. “No, I was born in Vancouver but moved here when I was a child.” Richard rested both elbows on the table, wrinkled his eyebrows, and then asked, “Tell me about yourself.” Kimberley searched his face and then smiled. “Why the interest, Doctor?” “First name’s Richard.” “Sorry, I forgot. So why the interest, Richard?” He smiled before answering. “I’d just like to know a little about the girl that I’m going to ask out for dinner.” Kimberley almost choked on her coffee. “You’re assuming that if you ask me, I’ll accept.” Richard replied with confidence. “Why wouldn’t you?”