[ he frowns, looking vaguely guilty. ]

Sorry about that. I didn't mean to startle you. It's just... You know, if someone is at risk of losing their hand, someone is bound to come running.

[ he remembers when he met elize — she was just as petrified as strangers. he offers her what he hopes is a reassuring smile. ]

But I understand. There's no need to apologize. This sort of thing doesn't happen every day, after all.

[ a brief pause. ]

Do you mind if I take a quick look before I take off, though? I'm a doctor, so... I just want to make sure, you know, it isn't too irritated.