Theo’s clinic had put chairs in the corridor, then taken half of them out again so walking frames could pass. Kellan stepped around the remaining row carrying a box of donated dressings and found his brother arguing with a volunteer about a timetable.
“The appointment ends at noon,” Theo said. “That doesn’t mean the patient can stand at the stop at noon.”
The volunteer pointed to a transport column. “That’s the collection slot we have.”
“Then put waiting assistance beside it. Don’t mark it solved.”
Kellan set the box where the clinic assistant directed. He had expected to find Theo resting after the hospital operation. His brother sat with his leg supported, water within reach and the clinic’s occupational adviser beside him. A small timer on the table had nearly reached its mark.
The adviser closed the folder before Theo could open another page. “Break.”
Theo grimaced and obeyed. Kellan found himself deprived of the speech he had brought through the door.
“You heard that?” Theo asked.
