Sunday Morning After
Carter gripped the knotted sock with the mutt-dog hanging on the end of it.
"Yep,?he puffed. "It's a lazy dog-danglin' afternoon."
Abby grimaced at him.
"John, stop torturing the dog."
Carter let go of the sock, consequently letting go of the stray dog.
"I'm not torturing him. He likes it. Doncha, boy?"
Carter pet the dog and it licked its lips. It only wanted love.
Susan retrieved another chart.
"Whose dog is that, anyway?"
Carter looked up from the dog.
"I don't know. It followed Kowalski. She thinks it only wants a cool place to sit."
Susan rolled her eyes.
"Oh God! She's collecting pets now?! It seemed like yesterday she was gathering interesting cases for our approval. Is she trying to win the Nobel Prize for Effort or something?"
Abby laughed.
"No, she's trying for teacher's pet."
"Tell, she's doing a good job," Susan rejoined. She's like a puppy dog."
Abby thought about it.
"No, she's more like one of those Siberian huskies with bright blue eyes."
When Abby turned around, she saw that Ceila had heard her. The girl hugged a chart to her body and grimaced at her.
"First of all, earshot. Second of all, I would rather be a husky than a Skye terrier."
With that, she picked up a red ball and Abby chased it.
Abby was furious.
"You knew I would chase that ball!"
But Carter knew that he should never have let them take the quiz, "what kind of dog are you?"
Just then, a trauma rolled in.
The paramedic rattled the bullet.
"MVA, driver with LOC and facial laceration. Cardiac and respiratory functions steady and no other injuries apparent."
"I'm fine," the driver called out. "It's just a bump."
Carter called to Ceila.
"Kowalski, put the chart away. You'e needed here."
Ceila put her chart away and went to attend to the trauma.
Carter, Abby and Ceila wheeled the patient into trauma room one.
"Kowalski, I need chem seven, ABG and CT. Can you handle that?"
Ceila marked the instructions on a new chart.
"Yes."
Abby took the driver's blood pressure.
"40/60."
"A little odd," Carter noted. Sir, do you know where you are?"
"I'm in a hospital," the driver exhaustedly explained. "I was driving down Taylor and the lights were flashing and I guess I lost control of my car."
Ceila's brow furrowed.
"Were you drinking? Any drugs?" Carter asked.
"No," the driver responded. "I took an aspirin two days ago. Does that count?"
Carter shook his head.
Ceila whispered to Carter.
"The lights on that street don't flash. Could he be prone to epilepsy?"
Carter thought for a second.
"Maybe. It could even be the glare of the sun."
He now turned to the driver.
"Sir, do you have epilepsy?" Carter asked.
The driver thought for a second.
"I don't think so."
"Were you out in the sun too long? Are you dehydrated?" Abby asked.
"No. I was driving from my house to the library. I had a lemonade before I left," he explained.
Carter nodded once more.
"Let me see if anything shows up on the CT. I also want to run an EEG." He pressed gently against the man's face. "Sir, we're going to check if you have any other injuries. Is there anyone you would like us to call?"
"My wife should be from dropping the kids off at swim practice," he said.
Carter nodded to Ceila.
"Sir, what's your name?"
The driver seemed perplexed for a moment.
"Ah! My name! Sorry, everything's happening so fast. My name is Carl, Carl Linwood. I do siding. Do you need siding?"
Ceila shook her head.
"No, but if I do, I'll let you know.?
Ceila left the trauma room and made the arrangements.
Abby started to dress the abrasion on Carl's face.
"Mr. Linwood, we're going to run some tests. If everything checks out, you'll be able to barbecue by suppertime," Carter assured him.
Carl huffed.
"I hope so. I really just want to let my wife know where I am."
Abby smiled at him.
"Student Nurse Kowalski will take care of that for you."
Abby went aside to get some more dressings. Carter joined her.
"Are you free tonight?"
Abby avoided his eyes.
"Um... I can't. Susan's taking me to the...4-H Club. Some tropical BBQ."
Carter rolled his eyes.
"If you're going to lie to me, Abby, at least make it plausible. You'e not even trying any more."
Abby still didn't look at him.
"I'm not lying."
Abby returned to treating Carl.
Carter only looked at her, lost.
**
Ceila spoke with purpose on the phone.
"Yes, Mrs. Linwood. He's conscious. Well, his apparent injuries aren't bad- just a bump and a cut but we're running a few tests to make sure. No, I think your insurance company will cover it. Alright, Mrs. Linwood. Just try get down. Okay.?
Ceila put down the receiver. Luka walked by. Ceila immediately retrieved her chart and ran to him.
"Dr. Kovac!?
Luka swivelled his head to her.
"I have this amazing case!?Ceila proclaimed. "You see, a young woman came in with heat stroke and she told me she keeps cool in a meat locker...?
He shook his head.
"Uh, no, Student Nurse Kowalski.?
Ceila became downcast.
"Well, um...?
Luka shook his head again.
"No. Perhaps you should try not to present cases that are...how do you say in English?....Boring.?
Ceila's eyes became glassy.
"Okay.?
Luka did not want to see her cry.
"Student Nurse Kowalski, there are some intriguing cases in pediatric orthopedics.?
Ceila's eyes brightened.
"There are?! I am so there!?
But Luka stopped her before she could run away.
"You can't go anywhere. Not until your shift is over.?
Ceila could hardly contain her enthusiasm nor could Luka hold her still.
"You give me a weekend and I'll have a case report of the most interesting trauma...?
Luka tried to silence her.
"You know, I want you to speak to me only in Croatian.?
A look of bewilderment touched Ceila's face.
"I can't speak Croatian.?
Luka smiled in an unfamiliar sinister way.
"Really??
Just then Carter exited the trauma room. Ceila excused herself from Luka and went to report to Carter.
"The labs aren't back yet and Neurology is backed up.?
Carter rubbed the back of his neck.
"Okay, let me know the minute his labs pop up.?
Ceila nodded and returned to attend to Carl.
"Mr. Linwood, I phoned your wife. She's driving down.?
Carl nodded.
"I hope she doesn't kill me. The front end of the car is smashed in.?
Ceila rolled her eyes.
"I've done much worse.?
Abby seemed wickedly impressed.
"Don't offer me a ride. Anywhere. Ever.?
"Wear a seatbelt and nobody gets hurt,?Ceila piped.
"I'll wear a helmet and goggles for good measure,?Abby added.
"That would be a good idea,?Ceila nodded.
"I'm gonna restock the dressings,?Abby said as she removed her gloves. "Please keep an eye on our patient patient.?
Abby exited the trauma room and caught up with Susan.
"Hey! Are we still on for tonight??
Susan was hesitant for a moment and then nodded.
"Yes, of course! I just thought you were spending the night with Carter.?
Abby shook her head as she re-supplied herself with gauze.
"No. What gave you that idea??
"I just thought...?Susan started off. "See ya later!?
Abby concurred.
**
Luka finished the last of his charts.
"No distractions and all my work is done!?he exhaled.
Kerry caught his sigh of relief.
"Let me guess- Student Nurse Kowalski.?
Luka nodded.
"Always with the questions and the case studies.?
Kerry groaned.
"Oh! I know! I once thought it was a thrill to have cases presented to me. You know- student enthusiasm. But she is like some kind of nonstop generator!?
"I found a way around it, though,?Luka pointed out in a self-satisfied way. "I have her speak only in Croatian. She doesn't speak a word apparently.?
Kerry laughed.
"I'd like to enjoy your silence but I have Q and A's to fill out.?
Luka smiled and let Kerry find an even quieter place to work.
**
Ceila monitored Carl's condition.
"How long am I going to be here??
Ceila marked down Carl's vitals.
"Until we know you're okay.?
She replaced the cap on her pen.
"Do you mind if I ask you a few questions??
Carl shrugged.
"Shoot!?
Ceila rested her hands on the side bars of the gurney.
"What did you see when you were driving??
Carl's brow furrowed.
"What do you mean? I saw a lot of things.?
"When you arrived, you said you saw the lights on Taylor blink.?
"Yeah.?
"Those lights don't blink.?
"But they were blinking,?Carl maintained.
"They don't blink,?Ceila insisted.
"Are you saying I made this up??
"No. I'm just suggesting that...?
Ceila stopped. She had Carl shut his eyes.
"Think. Remember the time before your accident.?
Carl thought hard.
"I saw a car ahead of me. I yielded. Kids walking down the street. A hotdog vendor. Streetlights.?
"What about the streetlights??
"They were flashing at me and then...nothing.?
Carl opened his eyes and Ceila opened her's.
"They weren't supposed to flash, Mr. Linwood.?
Carl started to drool.
"Mr. Linwood??
His hands twitched. His jaws clenched and then he throttled back and forth.
Ceila poked her head out of the trauma room door.
"Dr. Carter!?
Carter ran to the trauma room. He saw Ceila trying to hold the now seizing Carl still.
"What happened??
"He started seizing! He needs atavin.?
Carter pulled on some gloves.
"He doesn't need atavin at all!?
Carter filled a syringe and pushed the contents into Carl's IV. Carl stopped shaking.
"Now, I want this man to get an EEG. Don't let Neurology talk back to you. Then, I want to see you.?
Ceila gripped the bars of Carl's gurney and prepared to take him to the Neurology ward.
**
Ceila returned from transporting Carl to Neurology. Carter waited for her with taut jaws and crossed arms.
"I don't know what you're taught in nursing school but here you are a nurse! Moreover, you are a student nurse! You do not make diagnoses or perform procedures which require a medical degree!?
Ceila steadied herself.
"I didn't push anything nor did I do anything outside the bounds of my duties as a student nurse. I asked the patient about his accident and then he seized. I thought he needed atavin.?
Carter wouldn't hear of it.
"You do not push atavin! You're a student nurse! You change IVs and suture cuts!?
The chords in Ceila's neck stood out as she was ready to raise her voice. Just then, Luka came in.
"Neurology tried to page you, Carter. Your patient has status epilepticus.?
Carter shot Ceila a quick burning look.
"Good thing you didn't push the atavin.?
Ceila was solid to herself.
"I knew he was epileptic.?
Luka was confused.
"What's going on??
"Student Nurse Kowalski has expressed a desire to push a drug not recommended for status epilepticus.?
Luka's eyes were clear.
"Student Nurse Kowalski, define status epilepticus.?
Ceila crossed her arms.
"Status epilepticus is a term used to describe any continuing type of seizures. Generalized convulsive status epilepticus is the abnormal electrical activity involving all areas of the cortex. Seizures may last five or thirty minutes. Such conditions usually preclude a history of epilepsy.?
Luka nodded.
"Do you know if he had epilepsy?
She did not look at him.
"I was waiting for the EEG.?
"I see, and what is the best course of treatment??
Ceila did not answer.
"You don't know, do you??he asked.
She still did not answer.
"Dilantin is the drug most often used,?Luka answered for her. "You cannot push any drug as you are not a physician, nor can you proceed with a course of treatment without undergoing tests.?
Ceila seemed chagrined from Luka's gentle admonishment than from Carter's more stern approach.
"The patient's wife is waiting in chairs,?Luka said. "Take her to see her husband. Tell her Dr. Carter will see her shortly.?
Without looking at him, Ceila nodded to Luka and went to attend to Mrs. Linwood.
Luka now turned his attention to Carter.
"How bad is the damage??
Carter rubbed the back of his neck.
"I stopped her before she could do anything...?
Luka interrupted him.
"Whoa-whoa! Wait a minute! You yelled at her because she wanted to push atavin? I thought she did.?
Carter shook his head.
"No, I said she wanted to. It's very dangerous...?
Luka cut him off.
"She didn't actually push any drug, did she??
"No,?Carter admitted.
Luka placed his hands on his hips.
"Then why did you scream at her??
"Luka, she's jumping the gun.?
"This is a teaching hospital,?Luka said firmly. "She learns. You teach.?
Carter wouldn't let him get away with it.
"This goes on her record.?
"You put that on her record, I will put on your record your inability to properly monitor student medical staff and failure to follow orders from present attendings,?Luka spat back.
Carter huffed.
"Don't go over my head on this one, Luka.?
Luka was resolute.
"Don't fuck with me on this one, Dr. Carter.?
Luka stormed out of the trauma room leaving Carter with a stern warning.
**
Ceila was where Luka thought she would be- waiting dejectedly in the Neurology ward while Mrs. Linwood talked to Mr. Linwood.
"You aren't going to cry, are you??
Ceila shot him an angry look. Luka learned then to back away.
"I read the case notes,?he said. "You were right about the epileptic seizures.?
Ceila stared straight ahead of her.
"Am I going to get the Nixon treatment??
Luka looked lost.
"I have no idea what that means but it can't be taken off the chart and I've spoken to Dr. Carter. You haven't done anything wrong so he cannot punish you.?
Ceila now looked at him.
"So my career isn't over before it begins??
He locked his jaw.
"It can be.?
Luka leaned on the wall next to her.
"You have to promise me not to be the doctor, at least not until you are one.?
Ceila was puzzled.
"I'm studying to be a nurse. Why do you think I should be a doctor??
Luka shrugged.
"You look like one. And you might like a nice parking space.?
Ceila giggled and blushed at the same time.
Luka smiled broadly.
"You look good when you laugh.?
He wanted to take it back. The thought of it was too much.
Ceila bowed her head so that he couldn't see her blush.
Luka gulped.
"I have to get back to the ER.?
Ceila smiled gently.
"You still have to teach me Croatian.?
He remembered.
"Oh...yes...?
Ceila started to walk with him.
"Tell me some basic words.?
They walked back together.
"Like what??
"Body parts,?Ceila asked.
Luka pointed to each part and enunciated the word.
"The head-glava; the heart-srce; the hand-ruka; the eye-oka.?
"Like in Polish,?Ceila pointed out.
Luka shook his head.
"No.?
"It does sound the same,?Ceila insisted. "It does! We're all Slavs underneath, Dr. Luka.?
Luka laughed.
"Maybe. I guess. What else??
"Like,?she said softly.
"Voljeti.?
"I, you, he..?
"Ja, ti, on.?
"To be.?
"Biti.?
Luka turned to Ceila.
"We should take this in stages. There are variants and many sounds you must master.?
"I speak some Polish,?she offered.
Luka shook his head.
"Not the same.?
They entered the elevator.
"I think so,?Ceila said in a small voice.
**
Abby saw that Ceila was in a better mood after coming down from Neurology. She wondered if Luka had anything to do with that. He always had something encouraging to say.
"Hey!?
Ceila swivelled her head to Abby.
"You alright??
Ceila nodded.
"Yeah, fine.?
Abby shrugged a little.
"Don't let John- Dr. Carter- rattle you. He's really a nice guy and he's a good doctor.?
Ceila was not convinced.
"Really? Maybe you should go out with him then. I'm sure there are no rules against that.?
Abby wondered why Ceila didn't see what she thought was the obvious.
"I do.?
She only gave a suspicious smile.
"It doesn't look like it.?
"Well, we don't....?Abby fumbled. "Um...Hey! Susan and I were going out and if you would like to come with us, you can. You won't be able to drink but you can eat the appetizers.?
Ceila frowned.
"I miss my country's drinking age.?
Jerry motioned Ceila over to the telephone.
"Yeah? No! Great! Thanks, Chuan!?
Ceila hung up the telephone and raised her arms as in victory.
"Thai wedding!?
The whole place was alight in jubilation.
"Someone you know is getting married??Susan asked.
"No,?Ceila shook her head. "I live above a swanky-ass Thai restaurant. The only time I get to have a party is when the restaurant is hosting a wedding. It's loud and colourful and it's a great opportunity to kill brain cells, seeing as I'm not using them to study. It would be too loud.?
She turned to Abby.
"Sorry. I won't be able to eat the food you don't want. Maybe some other time.?
She spun around to expectant party-goers.
"Who wants to come??
Jerry raised his hand.
"Me! Where is this place??
"Half a block from Navy Pier.?
Jerry's brow furrowed.
"That isn't The Vanilla Flower, is it? The scene of the Headless Pad Thai Cook??
Ceila grinned.
"And how! My coffee table is right where they found the torso!?
"Cool!?Malik breathed.
"Come!?Ceila invited. "I'm off in half an hour. I have lots to prepare. Be there at eight.?
Ceila fled into the lounge.
Jerry and Malik were excited. Susan remained.
"Be afraid. Be very, very afraid.?
"No way!?Jerry exclaimed. "Canadian beer, loud music, and a chance to rifle through Kowalski's underwear drawer.?
Susan was disgusted.
"That is gross!?
Jerry's voice took on an ominous tone.
"She must have gotten that place for next to nothing. Finding a place in Chicago can be murder.?
Susan rolled her eyes.
**
When Luka took his break, he noticed that Ceila was doing some paperwork. Kerry had her take numerous case notes and Ceila was happy to oblige her. She took pride in noting down every detail.
She lifted her head and politely smiled. Luka noticed a change in hue for her.
He sat next to her and drank coffee as he reviewed his own charts.
Silence. Only the scratching of pens on paper.
Ceila went over her notes. She tore a piece of paper from her notebook and wrote something for Luka. He looked at the note once and paused. He wrote a reply and sent it back to her. She did not look directly at him but he could see the sheen in her pale blue eyes.
She rose from the table, hugging the note to her body.
**
Eight o'clock had rolled around. Luka prepared to leave. The ER was emptying out.
"This place is becoming abandoned,?he related to Susan.
"Yeah, everybody's going to Kowalski's for some wholesome Thai wedding fun. Are you going??
He didn't look directly at her and shook his head.
"No. I am going straight home.?
He waved a quick good bye and walked out the door.
Abby emerged from the lounge and skipped to Susan.
"Are you ready??
Susan looked pained.
"I can't. I promised I'd cover part of the shift for Chen. Some emergency at home or something.?
Abby nodded slightly.
"Well, it would be a shame to waste the reservations. So...?
Susan opened her mouth to speak but before she could say anything Abby was out the door. Chen would arrive in only ten minutes.
**
It was hard not to notice Ceila's flat. The balcony above the Vanilla Flower was alive with party-goers and festooned with bright red and fuschia garlands. The restaurant below exuded an exuberance only a wedding could give off. The entire place was just one big happy party.
Luka climbed the stairs to Ceila's flat and knocked on the door. He knew he wouldn't be able to stay. The noise and the bright lights and the decorated papier-m?he elephants made him feel uncomfortable. He was never much of a party-goer. At least not that he remembered.
Ceila pulled the door open.
"Dr. Luka!?
She looked different from when she was at work. Her long black hair fell to her shoulders in clumsy tousles. She wore a red shirt which sported the tattoos on her well-muscled arms and a navel piercing.
He looked embarrassed as he did smitten.
"I didn't realize you had friends over.?
Ceila rolled her eyes.
"Oh stop being such a Weaver and get in here!?
She dragged him into her flat.
"Do you love this place or what? My dad's a cop. This place was a crime scene so I got it for a song! Can you imagine?!?
Ceila handed Luka a beer as he looked around.
"I wanted to talk to you...?
Ceila shuffled some nacho chips in front him.
"Dude, relax.?
But Luka opened his mouth as he would speak. A garland was placed around his neck.
"Hey! Dr. Kovac!?
Jerry and Malik, each with beers in their hands, waved to him. Luka waved back feebly. He wanted to talk to Ceila but she was engaged in conversation with someone else.
"Dr. Luka, you're not drinking,?Ceila grinned and motioned to his untouched bottle. "You can waste food but you can't waste beer! Drink-drink!?
Luka put the bottle to his lips and eased into oblivion.
**
Luka shot up. He was on a couch he scarcely remembered was Ceila's. His mouth was dry and his head felt as though it was in a vice. There was still evidence of a wild party he scarcely remembered all over the place. Broken garlands, empty beer bottles, quarter empty bowls of snacks, moved retro furniture. The mess almost overshadowed evidence of Ceila's life. Pictures of children with black curly hair, a woman with long black hair, mountains, trees, a huge maple leaf.
"You're awake. Hurry- you'll be late for Mass.?
Luka swivelled his pain-filled head to Ceila. She had her hair tied up and wore a tasteful skirt.
"Mass??
She helped Luka to his feet.
"Come on. I have an extra toothbrush. You can wash up here.?
Luka staggered to the bathroom. He looked like he had been drinking all night when, in fact, he had. He pulled at his jacket.
"I don't know if this is mine.?
Ceila didn't hear him as she put toothpaste on a toothbrush and laid out a washcloth.
"You've got to hurry or we'll be late.?
He started to brush his teeth. He spat into the sink.
"Did anything happen??
Ceila scrubbed his face with the washcloth.
"I don't know. Did you have a tattoo when you came in??
Luka's eyes bugged open. He tried to remove his jacket but Ceila grabbed him before he could investigate further.
"We've got to go!?she insisted and pulled him to church.
**
The Cross of Christ beamed at him from the altar.
Luka had tried going back to Mass. Sometimes he succeeded, other times failed and other times simply missed Mass altogether.
But Ceila was insistent. Why it should matter to her if he went or not did not occur to him right away. She stood and sat and knelt intently as she was supposed to. She finished praying and motioned Luka to get up from the pew.
"Polish language Mass will begin in half an hour and I know how you feel about linguistic variants.?
His head was still woozy as he offered an explanation.
"I was referring to...?
Luka stopped. His eyes became glassy as he held her in his gaze.
"I don't think we are supposed to...be here...together....?
Ceila only answered his uncertainty with a concise response.
"We went to church, Dr. Kovac. I don't know anything more proper than that.?
"Ceila!?
A wiry blondish man walked down to her pew and embraced her.
"How are ya, my girl?!?
Ceila grinned.
"Daddy, this Dr. Kovac. I told you about him. He joined me for Mass today.?
Luka felt instantly uncomfortable, as he did at the party. Ceila's father did not perceive the awkwardness. He simply grabbed Luka's hand and shook it firmly.
"Bardzo dobry! It's so good that someone who is almost like us not only teaches but goes to Mass!?
Luka did not understand.
"Almost like us??
He playfully punched Luka's arm.
"Ya know, a Slav!?
Luka finally nodded.
"Ah, yes.?
Ceila's wicked grin softened to a slight smile.
"Will you join us for pancakes??
The hue in Luka's face changed.
"I can't. My friend....?
"Oh,?she sighed. "I'll see later then, Dr. Kovac. You can help me go over intubations with the fibreoptic scope.?
Luka nodded uneasily.
"Yes, it's important you go over that...?
He nodded a curt good-bye and staggered out of the church.
Ceila's father looked on the lanky man.
"Nice enough guy.?
Ceila smiled confidently.
"I think so, too.?
Carter gripped the knotted sock with the mutt-dog hanging on the end of it.
"Yep,?he puffed. "It's a lazy dog-danglin' afternoon."
Abby grimaced at him.
"John, stop torturing the dog."
Carter let go of the sock, consequently letting go of the stray dog.
"I'm not torturing him. He likes it. Doncha, boy?"
Carter pet the dog and it licked its lips. It only wanted love.
Susan retrieved another chart.
"Whose dog is that, anyway?"
Carter looked up from the dog.
"I don't know. It followed Kowalski. She thinks it only wants a cool place to sit."
Susan rolled her eyes.
"Oh God! She's collecting pets now?! It seemed like yesterday she was gathering interesting cases for our approval. Is she trying to win the Nobel Prize for Effort or something?"
Abby laughed.
"No, she's trying for teacher's pet."
"Tell, she's doing a good job," Susan rejoined. She's like a puppy dog."
Abby thought about it.
"No, she's more like one of those Siberian huskies with bright blue eyes."
When Abby turned around, she saw that Ceila had heard her. The girl hugged a chart to her body and grimaced at her.
"First of all, earshot. Second of all, I would rather be a husky than a Skye terrier."
With that, she picked up a red ball and Abby chased it.
Abby was furious.
"You knew I would chase that ball!"
But Carter knew that he should never have let them take the quiz, "what kind of dog are you?"
Just then, a trauma rolled in.
The paramedic rattled the bullet.
"MVA, driver with LOC and facial laceration. Cardiac and respiratory functions steady and no other injuries apparent."
"I'm fine," the driver called out. "It's just a bump."
Carter called to Ceila.
"Kowalski, put the chart away. You'e needed here."
Ceila put her chart away and went to attend to the trauma.
Carter, Abby and Ceila wheeled the patient into trauma room one.
"Kowalski, I need chem seven, ABG and CT. Can you handle that?"
Ceila marked the instructions on a new chart.
"Yes."
Abby took the driver's blood pressure.
"40/60."
"A little odd," Carter noted. Sir, do you know where you are?"
"I'm in a hospital," the driver exhaustedly explained. "I was driving down Taylor and the lights were flashing and I guess I lost control of my car."
Ceila's brow furrowed.
"Were you drinking? Any drugs?" Carter asked.
"No," the driver responded. "I took an aspirin two days ago. Does that count?"
Carter shook his head.
Ceila whispered to Carter.
"The lights on that street don't flash. Could he be prone to epilepsy?"
Carter thought for a second.
"Maybe. It could even be the glare of the sun."
He now turned to the driver.
"Sir, do you have epilepsy?" Carter asked.
The driver thought for a second.
"I don't think so."
"Were you out in the sun too long? Are you dehydrated?" Abby asked.
"No. I was driving from my house to the library. I had a lemonade before I left," he explained.
Carter nodded once more.
"Let me see if anything shows up on the CT. I also want to run an EEG." He pressed gently against the man's face. "Sir, we're going to check if you have any other injuries. Is there anyone you would like us to call?"
"My wife should be from dropping the kids off at swim practice," he said.
Carter nodded to Ceila.
"Sir, what's your name?"
The driver seemed perplexed for a moment.
"Ah! My name! Sorry, everything's happening so fast. My name is Carl, Carl Linwood. I do siding. Do you need siding?"
Ceila shook her head.
"No, but if I do, I'll let you know.?
Ceila left the trauma room and made the arrangements.
Abby started to dress the abrasion on Carl's face.
"Mr. Linwood, we're going to run some tests. If everything checks out, you'll be able to barbecue by suppertime," Carter assured him.
Carl huffed.
"I hope so. I really just want to let my wife know where I am."
Abby smiled at him.
"Student Nurse Kowalski will take care of that for you."
Abby went aside to get some more dressings. Carter joined her.
"Are you free tonight?"
Abby avoided his eyes.
"Um... I can't. Susan's taking me to the...4-H Club. Some tropical BBQ."
Carter rolled his eyes.
"If you're going to lie to me, Abby, at least make it plausible. You'e not even trying any more."
Abby still didn't look at him.
"I'm not lying."
Abby returned to treating Carl.
Carter only looked at her, lost.
**
Ceila spoke with purpose on the phone.
"Yes, Mrs. Linwood. He's conscious. Well, his apparent injuries aren't bad- just a bump and a cut but we're running a few tests to make sure. No, I think your insurance company will cover it. Alright, Mrs. Linwood. Just try get down. Okay.?
Ceila put down the receiver. Luka walked by. Ceila immediately retrieved her chart and ran to him.
"Dr. Kovac!?
Luka swivelled his head to her.
"I have this amazing case!?Ceila proclaimed. "You see, a young woman came in with heat stroke and she told me she keeps cool in a meat locker...?
He shook his head.
"Uh, no, Student Nurse Kowalski.?
Ceila became downcast.
"Well, um...?
Luka shook his head again.
"No. Perhaps you should try not to present cases that are...how do you say in English?....Boring.?
Ceila's eyes became glassy.
"Okay.?
Luka did not want to see her cry.
"Student Nurse Kowalski, there are some intriguing cases in pediatric orthopedics.?
Ceila's eyes brightened.
"There are?! I am so there!?
But Luka stopped her before she could run away.
"You can't go anywhere. Not until your shift is over.?
Ceila could hardly contain her enthusiasm nor could Luka hold her still.
"You give me a weekend and I'll have a case report of the most interesting trauma...?
Luka tried to silence her.
"You know, I want you to speak to me only in Croatian.?
A look of bewilderment touched Ceila's face.
"I can't speak Croatian.?
Luka smiled in an unfamiliar sinister way.
"Really??
Just then Carter exited the trauma room. Ceila excused herself from Luka and went to report to Carter.
"The labs aren't back yet and Neurology is backed up.?
Carter rubbed the back of his neck.
"Okay, let me know the minute his labs pop up.?
Ceila nodded and returned to attend to Carl.
"Mr. Linwood, I phoned your wife. She's driving down.?
Carl nodded.
"I hope she doesn't kill me. The front end of the car is smashed in.?
Ceila rolled her eyes.
"I've done much worse.?
Abby seemed wickedly impressed.
"Don't offer me a ride. Anywhere. Ever.?
"Wear a seatbelt and nobody gets hurt,?Ceila piped.
"I'll wear a helmet and goggles for good measure,?Abby added.
"That would be a good idea,?Ceila nodded.
"I'm gonna restock the dressings,?Abby said as she removed her gloves. "Please keep an eye on our patient patient.?
Abby exited the trauma room and caught up with Susan.
"Hey! Are we still on for tonight??
Susan was hesitant for a moment and then nodded.
"Yes, of course! I just thought you were spending the night with Carter.?
Abby shook her head as she re-supplied herself with gauze.
"No. What gave you that idea??
"I just thought...?Susan started off. "See ya later!?
Abby concurred.
**
Luka finished the last of his charts.
"No distractions and all my work is done!?he exhaled.
Kerry caught his sigh of relief.
"Let me guess- Student Nurse Kowalski.?
Luka nodded.
"Always with the questions and the case studies.?
Kerry groaned.
"Oh! I know! I once thought it was a thrill to have cases presented to me. You know- student enthusiasm. But she is like some kind of nonstop generator!?
"I found a way around it, though,?Luka pointed out in a self-satisfied way. "I have her speak only in Croatian. She doesn't speak a word apparently.?
Kerry laughed.
"I'd like to enjoy your silence but I have Q and A's to fill out.?
Luka smiled and let Kerry find an even quieter place to work.
**
Ceila monitored Carl's condition.
"How long am I going to be here??
Ceila marked down Carl's vitals.
"Until we know you're okay.?
She replaced the cap on her pen.
"Do you mind if I ask you a few questions??
Carl shrugged.
"Shoot!?
Ceila rested her hands on the side bars of the gurney.
"What did you see when you were driving??
Carl's brow furrowed.
"What do you mean? I saw a lot of things.?
"When you arrived, you said you saw the lights on Taylor blink.?
"Yeah.?
"Those lights don't blink.?
"But they were blinking,?Carl maintained.
"They don't blink,?Ceila insisted.
"Are you saying I made this up??
"No. I'm just suggesting that...?
Ceila stopped. She had Carl shut his eyes.
"Think. Remember the time before your accident.?
Carl thought hard.
"I saw a car ahead of me. I yielded. Kids walking down the street. A hotdog vendor. Streetlights.?
"What about the streetlights??
"They were flashing at me and then...nothing.?
Carl opened his eyes and Ceila opened her's.
"They weren't supposed to flash, Mr. Linwood.?
Carl started to drool.
"Mr. Linwood??
His hands twitched. His jaws clenched and then he throttled back and forth.
Ceila poked her head out of the trauma room door.
"Dr. Carter!?
Carter ran to the trauma room. He saw Ceila trying to hold the now seizing Carl still.
"What happened??
"He started seizing! He needs atavin.?
Carter pulled on some gloves.
"He doesn't need atavin at all!?
Carter filled a syringe and pushed the contents into Carl's IV. Carl stopped shaking.
"Now, I want this man to get an EEG. Don't let Neurology talk back to you. Then, I want to see you.?
Ceila gripped the bars of Carl's gurney and prepared to take him to the Neurology ward.
**
Ceila returned from transporting Carl to Neurology. Carter waited for her with taut jaws and crossed arms.
"I don't know what you're taught in nursing school but here you are a nurse! Moreover, you are a student nurse! You do not make diagnoses or perform procedures which require a medical degree!?
Ceila steadied herself.
"I didn't push anything nor did I do anything outside the bounds of my duties as a student nurse. I asked the patient about his accident and then he seized. I thought he needed atavin.?
Carter wouldn't hear of it.
"You do not push atavin! You're a student nurse! You change IVs and suture cuts!?
The chords in Ceila's neck stood out as she was ready to raise her voice. Just then, Luka came in.
"Neurology tried to page you, Carter. Your patient has status epilepticus.?
Carter shot Ceila a quick burning look.
"Good thing you didn't push the atavin.?
Ceila was solid to herself.
"I knew he was epileptic.?
Luka was confused.
"What's going on??
"Student Nurse Kowalski has expressed a desire to push a drug not recommended for status epilepticus.?
Luka's eyes were clear.
"Student Nurse Kowalski, define status epilepticus.?
Ceila crossed her arms.
"Status epilepticus is a term used to describe any continuing type of seizures. Generalized convulsive status epilepticus is the abnormal electrical activity involving all areas of the cortex. Seizures may last five or thirty minutes. Such conditions usually preclude a history of epilepsy.?
Luka nodded.
"Do you know if he had epilepsy?
She did not look at him.
"I was waiting for the EEG.?
"I see, and what is the best course of treatment??
Ceila did not answer.
"You don't know, do you??he asked.
She still did not answer.
"Dilantin is the drug most often used,?Luka answered for her. "You cannot push any drug as you are not a physician, nor can you proceed with a course of treatment without undergoing tests.?
Ceila seemed chagrined from Luka's gentle admonishment than from Carter's more stern approach.
"The patient's wife is waiting in chairs,?Luka said. "Take her to see her husband. Tell her Dr. Carter will see her shortly.?
Without looking at him, Ceila nodded to Luka and went to attend to Mrs. Linwood.
Luka now turned his attention to Carter.
"How bad is the damage??
Carter rubbed the back of his neck.
"I stopped her before she could do anything...?
Luka interrupted him.
"Whoa-whoa! Wait a minute! You yelled at her because she wanted to push atavin? I thought she did.?
Carter shook his head.
"No, I said she wanted to. It's very dangerous...?
Luka cut him off.
"She didn't actually push any drug, did she??
"No,?Carter admitted.
Luka placed his hands on his hips.
"Then why did you scream at her??
"Luka, she's jumping the gun.?
"This is a teaching hospital,?Luka said firmly. "She learns. You teach.?
Carter wouldn't let him get away with it.
"This goes on her record.?
"You put that on her record, I will put on your record your inability to properly monitor student medical staff and failure to follow orders from present attendings,?Luka spat back.
Carter huffed.
"Don't go over my head on this one, Luka.?
Luka was resolute.
"Don't fuck with me on this one, Dr. Carter.?
Luka stormed out of the trauma room leaving Carter with a stern warning.
**
Ceila was where Luka thought she would be- waiting dejectedly in the Neurology ward while Mrs. Linwood talked to Mr. Linwood.
"You aren't going to cry, are you??
Ceila shot him an angry look. Luka learned then to back away.
"I read the case notes,?he said. "You were right about the epileptic seizures.?
Ceila stared straight ahead of her.
"Am I going to get the Nixon treatment??
Luka looked lost.
"I have no idea what that means but it can't be taken off the chart and I've spoken to Dr. Carter. You haven't done anything wrong so he cannot punish you.?
Ceila now looked at him.
"So my career isn't over before it begins??
He locked his jaw.
"It can be.?
Luka leaned on the wall next to her.
"You have to promise me not to be the doctor, at least not until you are one.?
Ceila was puzzled.
"I'm studying to be a nurse. Why do you think I should be a doctor??
Luka shrugged.
"You look like one. And you might like a nice parking space.?
Ceila giggled and blushed at the same time.
Luka smiled broadly.
"You look good when you laugh.?
He wanted to take it back. The thought of it was too much.
Ceila bowed her head so that he couldn't see her blush.
Luka gulped.
"I have to get back to the ER.?
Ceila smiled gently.
"You still have to teach me Croatian.?
He remembered.
"Oh...yes...?
Ceila started to walk with him.
"Tell me some basic words.?
They walked back together.
"Like what??
"Body parts,?Ceila asked.
Luka pointed to each part and enunciated the word.
"The head-glava; the heart-srce; the hand-ruka; the eye-oka.?
"Like in Polish,?Ceila pointed out.
Luka shook his head.
"No.?
"It does sound the same,?Ceila insisted. "It does! We're all Slavs underneath, Dr. Luka.?
Luka laughed.
"Maybe. I guess. What else??
"Like,?she said softly.
"Voljeti.?
"I, you, he..?
"Ja, ti, on.?
"To be.?
"Biti.?
Luka turned to Ceila.
"We should take this in stages. There are variants and many sounds you must master.?
"I speak some Polish,?she offered.
Luka shook his head.
"Not the same.?
They entered the elevator.
"I think so,?Ceila said in a small voice.
**
Abby saw that Ceila was in a better mood after coming down from Neurology. She wondered if Luka had anything to do with that. He always had something encouraging to say.
"Hey!?
Ceila swivelled her head to Abby.
"You alright??
Ceila nodded.
"Yeah, fine.?
Abby shrugged a little.
"Don't let John- Dr. Carter- rattle you. He's really a nice guy and he's a good doctor.?
Ceila was not convinced.
"Really? Maybe you should go out with him then. I'm sure there are no rules against that.?
Abby wondered why Ceila didn't see what she thought was the obvious.
"I do.?
She only gave a suspicious smile.
"It doesn't look like it.?
"Well, we don't....?Abby fumbled. "Um...Hey! Susan and I were going out and if you would like to come with us, you can. You won't be able to drink but you can eat the appetizers.?
Ceila frowned.
"I miss my country's drinking age.?
Jerry motioned Ceila over to the telephone.
"Yeah? No! Great! Thanks, Chuan!?
Ceila hung up the telephone and raised her arms as in victory.
"Thai wedding!?
The whole place was alight in jubilation.
"Someone you know is getting married??Susan asked.
"No,?Ceila shook her head. "I live above a swanky-ass Thai restaurant. The only time I get to have a party is when the restaurant is hosting a wedding. It's loud and colourful and it's a great opportunity to kill brain cells, seeing as I'm not using them to study. It would be too loud.?
She turned to Abby.
"Sorry. I won't be able to eat the food you don't want. Maybe some other time.?
She spun around to expectant party-goers.
"Who wants to come??
Jerry raised his hand.
"Me! Where is this place??
"Half a block from Navy Pier.?
Jerry's brow furrowed.
"That isn't The Vanilla Flower, is it? The scene of the Headless Pad Thai Cook??
Ceila grinned.
"And how! My coffee table is right where they found the torso!?
"Cool!?Malik breathed.
"Come!?Ceila invited. "I'm off in half an hour. I have lots to prepare. Be there at eight.?
Ceila fled into the lounge.
Jerry and Malik were excited. Susan remained.
"Be afraid. Be very, very afraid.?
"No way!?Jerry exclaimed. "Canadian beer, loud music, and a chance to rifle through Kowalski's underwear drawer.?
Susan was disgusted.
"That is gross!?
Jerry's voice took on an ominous tone.
"She must have gotten that place for next to nothing. Finding a place in Chicago can be murder.?
Susan rolled her eyes.
**
When Luka took his break, he noticed that Ceila was doing some paperwork. Kerry had her take numerous case notes and Ceila was happy to oblige her. She took pride in noting down every detail.
She lifted her head and politely smiled. Luka noticed a change in hue for her.
He sat next to her and drank coffee as he reviewed his own charts.
Silence. Only the scratching of pens on paper.
Ceila went over her notes. She tore a piece of paper from her notebook and wrote something for Luka. He looked at the note once and paused. He wrote a reply and sent it back to her. She did not look directly at him but he could see the sheen in her pale blue eyes.
She rose from the table, hugging the note to her body.
**
Eight o'clock had rolled around. Luka prepared to leave. The ER was emptying out.
"This place is becoming abandoned,?he related to Susan.
"Yeah, everybody's going to Kowalski's for some wholesome Thai wedding fun. Are you going??
He didn't look directly at her and shook his head.
"No. I am going straight home.?
He waved a quick good bye and walked out the door.
Abby emerged from the lounge and skipped to Susan.
"Are you ready??
Susan looked pained.
"I can't. I promised I'd cover part of the shift for Chen. Some emergency at home or something.?
Abby nodded slightly.
"Well, it would be a shame to waste the reservations. So...?
Susan opened her mouth to speak but before she could say anything Abby was out the door. Chen would arrive in only ten minutes.
**
It was hard not to notice Ceila's flat. The balcony above the Vanilla Flower was alive with party-goers and festooned with bright red and fuschia garlands. The restaurant below exuded an exuberance only a wedding could give off. The entire place was just one big happy party.
Luka climbed the stairs to Ceila's flat and knocked on the door. He knew he wouldn't be able to stay. The noise and the bright lights and the decorated papier-m?he elephants made him feel uncomfortable. He was never much of a party-goer. At least not that he remembered.
Ceila pulled the door open.
"Dr. Luka!?
She looked different from when she was at work. Her long black hair fell to her shoulders in clumsy tousles. She wore a red shirt which sported the tattoos on her well-muscled arms and a navel piercing.
He looked embarrassed as he did smitten.
"I didn't realize you had friends over.?
Ceila rolled her eyes.
"Oh stop being such a Weaver and get in here!?
She dragged him into her flat.
"Do you love this place or what? My dad's a cop. This place was a crime scene so I got it for a song! Can you imagine?!?
Ceila handed Luka a beer as he looked around.
"I wanted to talk to you...?
Ceila shuffled some nacho chips in front him.
"Dude, relax.?
But Luka opened his mouth as he would speak. A garland was placed around his neck.
"Hey! Dr. Kovac!?
Jerry and Malik, each with beers in their hands, waved to him. Luka waved back feebly. He wanted to talk to Ceila but she was engaged in conversation with someone else.
"Dr. Luka, you're not drinking,?Ceila grinned and motioned to his untouched bottle. "You can waste food but you can't waste beer! Drink-drink!?
Luka put the bottle to his lips and eased into oblivion.
**
Luka shot up. He was on a couch he scarcely remembered was Ceila's. His mouth was dry and his head felt as though it was in a vice. There was still evidence of a wild party he scarcely remembered all over the place. Broken garlands, empty beer bottles, quarter empty bowls of snacks, moved retro furniture. The mess almost overshadowed evidence of Ceila's life. Pictures of children with black curly hair, a woman with long black hair, mountains, trees, a huge maple leaf.
"You're awake. Hurry- you'll be late for Mass.?
Luka swivelled his pain-filled head to Ceila. She had her hair tied up and wore a tasteful skirt.
"Mass??
She helped Luka to his feet.
"Come on. I have an extra toothbrush. You can wash up here.?
Luka staggered to the bathroom. He looked like he had been drinking all night when, in fact, he had. He pulled at his jacket.
"I don't know if this is mine.?
Ceila didn't hear him as she put toothpaste on a toothbrush and laid out a washcloth.
"You've got to hurry or we'll be late.?
He started to brush his teeth. He spat into the sink.
"Did anything happen??
Ceila scrubbed his face with the washcloth.
"I don't know. Did you have a tattoo when you came in??
Luka's eyes bugged open. He tried to remove his jacket but Ceila grabbed him before he could investigate further.
"We've got to go!?she insisted and pulled him to church.
**
The Cross of Christ beamed at him from the altar.
Luka had tried going back to Mass. Sometimes he succeeded, other times failed and other times simply missed Mass altogether.
But Ceila was insistent. Why it should matter to her if he went or not did not occur to him right away. She stood and sat and knelt intently as she was supposed to. She finished praying and motioned Luka to get up from the pew.
"Polish language Mass will begin in half an hour and I know how you feel about linguistic variants.?
His head was still woozy as he offered an explanation.
"I was referring to...?
Luka stopped. His eyes became glassy as he held her in his gaze.
"I don't think we are supposed to...be here...together....?
Ceila only answered his uncertainty with a concise response.
"We went to church, Dr. Kovac. I don't know anything more proper than that.?
"Ceila!?
A wiry blondish man walked down to her pew and embraced her.
"How are ya, my girl?!?
Ceila grinned.
"Daddy, this Dr. Kovac. I told you about him. He joined me for Mass today.?
Luka felt instantly uncomfortable, as he did at the party. Ceila's father did not perceive the awkwardness. He simply grabbed Luka's hand and shook it firmly.
"Bardzo dobry! It's so good that someone who is almost like us not only teaches but goes to Mass!?
Luka did not understand.
"Almost like us??
He playfully punched Luka's arm.
"Ya know, a Slav!?
Luka finally nodded.
"Ah, yes.?
Ceila's wicked grin softened to a slight smile.
"Will you join us for pancakes??
The hue in Luka's face changed.
"I can't. My friend....?
"Oh,?she sighed. "I'll see later then, Dr. Kovac. You can help me go over intubations with the fibreoptic scope.?
Luka nodded uneasily.
"Yes, it's important you go over that...?
He nodded a curt good-bye and staggered out of the church.
Ceila's father looked on the lanky man.
"Nice enough guy.?
Ceila smiled confidently.
"I think so, too.?
