A few minutes later, Hope heard Nicholas and Mrs. Talbot walking together back up the hallway. She wasn't purposely trying to overhear, but she couldn't help but notice how gentle and caring Dr. Howard sounded as he spoke to the pregnant woman. Mrs. Talbot's worries seemed eased by the time they reached the small waiting area. He bid her goodbye and turned to Hope who smiled at the young mother as she headed toward the door.
"Well, that's the last one," Nicholas proclaimed as Mrs. Talbot stepped out onto the walkway. "Would you like to come on back now." Hope gestured at the old woman, too caught up in her work to notice. Doc mouthed back, "She can wait."
Deciding he knew best, Hope rose and followed him to the back room. "This is where the excitement happens," he said, gesturing at the patient table and the cabinets full of supplies. "I can do all sorts of procedures here."