The medical consultation concluded late into the night. By the time all the orphanage children received treatment, the doctors were utterly exhausted. Roxanne, too, ached all over, but the thought of the childrenโs improved health filled her with gladness. Those with serious conditions had been sent to the hospital. Throughout the ordeal, sheโd almost forgotten her initial purpose; the children were her sole focus.
As the doctors emerged from the cubicles, the children, lined up in the courtyard and led by the orphanage director, bowed in unison, "Thank you, doctors!" The doctors were taken aback. This was their first free medical consultation for orphans, their first encounter with such heartfelt gratitude. They were deeply moved; some even wept.
Roxanne, too, felt tears welling. She clenched her fists, fighting back emotion. Then, caressing the head of the girl nearest her, she said, "Take good care of the younger ones. If you need help, ask the director to contact me."
The girl nodded fervently, reluctant to let Roxanne go. Roxanne felt the same, but the thought of Archie and Benny waiting at home propelled her forward.
Jack delivered a concluding speech and offered reminders to the children before officially ending the consultation. As the doctors prepared to leave, Jack turned and bowed solemnly. "This consultation has been a great success, thanks to each and every one of you. You are outstanding doctors, and I hope you continue to excel. Goodbye, and I hope to see you all again."
The cooperation had been pleasant. His humility further enhanced the doctors' positive impression of the Damaris family, eliciting smiles in return. Soon, the doctors departed, leaving the Damaris family to clean up.
Just as Roxanne was about to leave, Jack called, "Dr. Jarvis."
Roxanne stopped and turned. Larry, walking beside her and close to Jack, also stopped.
Jack smiled at Roxanne and apologized, "After reflection, I feel I must apologize."
Roxanne frowned, confused. The day had been lovely; she couldn't understand his apology.
"When we met this morning, I doubted your skills," Jack explained seriously. "But after a day of working together, you've changed my perception. You are a truly outstanding doctor. I apologize for doubting you."
Roxanne laughed. "It's fine. I didn't realize you had doubts." In fact, she'd been mentally commending the Damaris family for their children's excellent upbringingโa testament to their ability to conceal their true feelings.
Jack smiled, understanding her lightheartedness. After a moment, he extended his hand. "I hope we can work together again in the future."
Roxanne shook his hand, responding earnestly, "I look forward to it."