“Good morning,” I replied, forcing a polite smile.
“I just need to prep your IV before the surgical team comes in.”
She stepped closer to the bed, her eyes darting nervously toward Melissa. She kept shifting her weight from foot to foot.
“Take your time,” Melissa said cheerfully. “I’m going to step out to text my mom a quick update.”
“Don’t go too far,” I called out.
“Just right outside the door, sweetie,” Melissa promised. “I will be right back.”
As soon as Melissa’s heels clicked down the hallway, Clara’s demeanor shifted entirely. Her hands began to tremble violently as she reached for my IV line.
“Are you okay?” I asked, noticing her pale, sweating face.
Clara froze. She swallowed hard, her eyes wide with absolute panic. She glanced nervously toward the open doorway, checking to see if anyone was watching.
Then, she leaned down until her face was inches from my ear.
“Don’t trust your wife,” she whispered.
My heart slammed against my ribs. I stared at her in utter shock.
“What?” I gasped. “What are you talking about?”
“Please,” Clara whispered frantically. “Just listen to me.”
“Listen to what?” I demanded, my voice rising. “What did she do?”
