Jennifer Burke stared at the two people in front of her. She doubted they had been listening to a word she said. The pretty, red-cheeked nurse glanced across at the tall, skinny man beside her – a doctor, Jennifer presumed, judging by the stethoscope dangling around his neck. What are they waiting for? she asked herself. Can’t they see I need help?

Who do you think you are, they said?

With your shoes and your grand designs.

With your opinions and indulged femininity.

I watch him.

His pale and blemished skin,

Sporadically sprouting hairs on his beautiful face.