But I’m Glad It’s You

A lone silhouette approaches in the flickering lamplight, a petite, feminine form, skirts flowing in the breeze and high heels echoing across the cobblestone street — click-clack, click-clack. I step out of the shadows into her path. “Oh, my!” she gasps, clutching her hands over her heart. Her eyes widen with recognition, and I recognize her. 

“Good doctor, you startled me near to death,” she says, her voice trembling with what I sense is a mix of fear and relief. “But I’m glad it’s you and not some fellow with nefarious intent. What are you doing out so late in the evening, sir?” 

“I might ask the same of you,” I reply. “It is not safe for a young lady to be out alone on such a dark night as this. Is Mr. Welton not at home tonight?”  

“He has taken ill with a terrible croup, and I am on my way to the apothecary to seek a remedy — some elixir or tincture for his relief. I did not want to walk alone without an escort, but I had little choice, and I must return quickly.” 

“I understand,” I say. “How may I be of service to you?”

“Most kind sir, I would feel more safe if you could accompany me to the apothecary and back home again. She lowers her eyes for a moment, as though debating whether to ask, then continues: “And if it be no great inconvenience doctor, may you consider examining my husband yourself to verify his condition?”

“My highest pleasure, young lady, and a prudent request. There are indeed many unsavory characters roaming the night, and I promise to take good care of you.” I give her a reassuring smile in the dim light. “And yes, I can examine your husband to provide a prognosis of his ailment when we return to your home.”

“Thank you, Doctor, I would like that very much,” she says, returning my smile. “We must make haste, as my husband eagerly awaits my return.” I crook my arm; she tucks her arm into mine, and I walk with her into the shadows of the night. 

I promised to take care of her, and I will — in a way she will least expect. As she will soon learn, she will not make it back to her husband tonight. Because tonight, I am not Dr. Jekyll. I am Mr. Hyde.