Chapter 37

“Well take the blanket and recycle it,” Frost said. “And we can dry the clothes for you?”

“Thanks.”

“Certainly.” Frost dashed away and Zunella resumed her inspection. “We’ll need to do something for your knee and feet in addition to our routine examination and questions. If you don’t mind to come with me over to one of our exam chairs?” She gestured toward the heavily-enforced seats nearby.

“Um,” Eddie said, hesitating.

“You’re in good hands,” Kaeva said, as reassuringly as he could manage. “So I’ll be on my way, then.”

Eddie whirled to face Kaeva. “You’re leaving?” If Kaeva didn’t know better, he’d say Eddie seemed upset by the idea.

“Well, I’d thought—” Kaeva began.

“Mr. Downs,” Zunella intervened. “I have word that you are to stay through the proceedings and escort Mr. Florence to the Community Center where he’ll have his formal interview with the council and receive his sponsor.”

“I’m not sure that’s the best idea.”