Ms. Kennard? I hear a mans voice and look up. Hes standing in front of me with a sympathetic expression on his face that is reflected in his strong, piercing, blue eyes. His dark hair is neatly trimmed and he has a pen resting behind his ear. His tailored white coat extends to just below his knees and on his chest is embroidered his name, John Anderson, MD. He extends his hand to shake mine. Im Dr. Anderson. Ive been treating Ms. Porter since the ambulance brought her in.

I want to see her, I tell him. I NEED to see heror at least her body. I have to tell her goodbye and that I love hereven though her soul may no longer be there.

Thats not possible at the moment Ms. Kennard. His sympathetic voice somehow turns evil in my head. Is he denying me the right to see her? My anger is growing once again, pushing my pain and fear aside.

I speak forcefully, and why is it not possible? The hand already on my back begins movingrubbingsoothing.

They probably have procedures they have to follow. Right Doc? Kits voice calms the bubbling anger.

Uh, begins the doctor. He looks around, stopping his gaze on a nearby doorway. Why dont we step in here? Ill fill you in on all the details. His arm is extended, gesturing toward the room. As I stand up, using Kits support to steady myself, I look around and notice Alice, Dana, and Shane all nearbytears in everyones eyes. I walk into the room and face the exam table. I place my hands on it leaning on themmy palms are flat against the cold vinyl fabric. I hear the door close as feet shuffle in. Ms. Kennard, he begins, I saw you looking at the tracking board. By your reaction, I assume you know what GSW means.

GSW? Dana voices her confusion.

Gun shot wound, Dane, Shane explains. Are you telling us that Bette was shot? Her question is directed at Dr. Anderson.

Yes, he answers. Now, the reason you cant see her right now is because shes not here anymore.

I know, I turn to face him. That nurse crossed her name offshes dead isnt she? Thats why you havent asked for consent, isnt it? You dont need my consent anymore.

To Be Cintinued

*Avoidance of plagiarism has been drilled into me for years so I have to acknowledge that I did indeed steal this line from The L Word episode 11 Looking Back.