Mandy could tell right away this guy wasn’t here for friendly reasons, so she didn’t bother to fake a smile. Her voice was cool and flat. “Yep, it’s a free clinic. No charge at all. So, what kind of problem did you come for?”
As she spoke, Mandy gave him a quick once-over and cracked a little smile.
Wilson bristled. “What’s with that look?”
Mandy didn’t miss a beat. “Aren’t you here to see a doctor? My look is just part of the job—observation, questioning, listening, and touch. I’m checking your face for signs of any hidden illnesses. If there’s something going on, you should really get it treated early.”
Wilson was caught off guard. Why did it sound like she was low-key insulting him?
He scowled, his tone even sharper. “You’re the one who’s sick!”
Mandy shot back, “Watch your mouth, classmate. Take a look around—this is a free clinic. If you’re not sick, why are you here? Reminiscing? Do we even know each other?”
Wilson couldn’t get a word in. This girl was quick.
He turned his glare on Josefina, sitting quietly nearby.
But before he could say anything, Josefina spoke up, “You haven’t been eating well lately, can’t sleep, your mouth is dry, and you’re all wound up.”
Wilson stared at her, stunned. How did she know that?
He quickly tried to save face. “You must have just noticed the redness in my eyes.”
Josefina shook her head. “That’s not all. When you talked, Mandy frowned—your breath isn’t great, and your tongue looks pretty coated and uneven.”
Wilson went silent, his face burning.
Mandy added, “You have no idea how hard it is for me not to say something. Seriously, if you’re not feeling well, you should get checked. Staying healthy is good for you—and everyone around you.”


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