The pair smile and shake hands before the doctor slips out the doorway, shutting the door behind him, and leaving the two alone in silence.
INT. HALLWAY, ST. NICHOLAS HOSPITAL - CONTINUOUS
The doctor HURRIEDLY walks down the hallway, back through the path he came from. He shakes his head sideways, with pity.
DOCTOR (re: Chioma)
Poor girl.
BACK TO:
INT. ROOM 7, WING C, ST. NICHOLAS HOSPITAL - SAME TIME
Growing tension fills the room as Femi and Chioma stares long and hard at each other.
CHIOMA (inquires very calmly)
You said you will answer any question I have... So where’s Uche?
Femi walks closer to the bed, and responds almost in a whisper.
FEMI
I’m so sorry.
CHIOMA
It’s alright.
FEMI (surprised)
It’s alright?
CHIOMA
You held my hand to comfort me.
It’s okay. I understand.
Femi’s face crosses from SURPRISED to AGITATED.
FEMI
No, I’m not apologizing for holding your hand.
Chioma’s face is quickly baked with wrinkles.
FEMI (CONT’D)
Of course I’m apologizing for that too...
(stutters)
But, but, but.. I’m also apologizing because Uche didn’t make it alive.