The Bond Between Us (Anastasia and Herman)

Cynthia had finally made up her mind. She swallowed her pride and called a cab to Southridge Estates.

Southridge Estates.

After several sessions of physical therapy, Tavon's stiffness had eased up a lot. With Salma's help, he could even manage a few steps on his own.

This progress was a delightful surprise, a beacon of hope.

It was the weekend, and Pattie was also at Southridge Estates. James had prepared a therapeutic bath for Tavon, brewing the medicinal concoction before easing him into the large soaking tub, much like a sauna. Salma watched as steam rose from Tavon's head and asked, "Dr. James, why is there steam coming off him?"

Pattie was equally fascinated. "It's like light yellow smoke. It's almost like he's turning into an angel."

Ah, the whimsical world of children's TV shows.

James explained, "The steam is the heat penetrating the body, carrying the medicine with it, and expelling the toxins and dampness from within."

Salma gasped, "Toxins? Dr. James, are you saying Tavon has been poisoned?"

James chuckled. "Salma, by 'toxins,' I don't mean poison in the usual sense. Everyone has toxins in their body. The root cause of Tavon's stroke was circulatory blockages, brain damage, the central nervous system..." James's medical jargon went over Salma's head, but Pattie listened intently, full of admiration for the doctor who could heal and save lives.

Salma offered a nervous laugh. "Whatever you say, Dr. James. How long before he can walk or speak on his own?"

"After another session, his speech should improve," James replied, glancing at the darkening sky. "Looks like rain. I need to bring in the herbs." When it came to his medical supplies, James trusted no one else. They could easily be mishandled or mixed up.

In medicine, James was meticulous.

When James stepped out, Pattie followed. "Uncle James, let me help."

James smiled. "Thanks, Pattie, but I've got it. You should go inside."

But Pattie was determined. "Uncle James, I want to learn medicine, to heal and save people like you."

James had never taken an apprentice before.

The study of medicine was dry and arduous, and James figured Pattie's interest was just a passing curiosity. He continued with his task, offering no promises.

"Uncle James, I'm serious," Pattie insisted, gripping his arm. "I want to study medicine and be as amazing as you."

"If you start studying medicine, Herman might have my head. He's expecting you to learn the family business."

As James finished his sentence, Herman's voice came from behind. "If Pattie wants to learn medicine and you think she's got the knack, I'd be thrilled for you to take her under your wing."

Herman and Anastasia had returned together. James glanced at them and said, "I've never taken an apprentice before."

"There's a first time for everything," Anastasia said earnestly. "Dr. James, do you think Pattie has a natural talent for medicine? When she sets her mind to something, she sticks with it. She won't give up easily. We hope you'll give her a chance."

James, faced with their united front, hesitated. "Medicine depends on innate talent, and it's a long, hard road."noveldrama

Pattie looked up at him. "You never stop learning-that's what my dad always says. I'm not afraid of hard work."

Herman added sincerely, "James, for Pattie's dedication, please take her on. Set your terms, and we'll agree to them."

James laughed. "Herman, you've really cornered me here. Once you're on this ship, there's no getting off. But dedication isn't enough for medicine. You need talent, and without it, all the study in the world won't do. Pattie, if you really want to be my apprentice, learn all the herbs in this garden-their names, their properties. I'll quiz you in ten days. Pass, and you're my apprentice. Fail, and well, that's unfortunate."

Pattie replied with a confident smile, "Uncle James, you don't need to wait ten days. You can quiz me now. I've already learned all the herbs."

Her claim surprised not only James but also Herman and Anastasia.

Anastasia asked, "Pattie, there are over twenty different herbs here. Do you truly know them all and their effects?"