Draped in cameras, Liz makes her way toward Natasha’s room. She’s reaching for the door when it opens and Boris steps out. He looks beat but smiles when he sees it’s Liz.
She asks, “Is everything OK?”
“Tired. The doc’s giving her an examination.”
“Mmm. I hate hospitals myself.”
“I think they’re probably gonna let her go. You could have waited and taken the pictures back at the Res.”
Liz shakes her head while effortlessly performing a practiced shoulder roll to reposition the bags hanging there.
“Oh no, it’s much better to do it here, Bo. The light will be better for one, but nothing beats an institutional setting for an insurance claim. I imagine it’ll help just as much in criminal court.”
“That sounds so cynical, Liz.”
Liz laughs. “I am cynical. But think it through. By the time they catch the guy and bring him to court her cuts and bruises will probably be gone. Because Natasha was knocked out she can’t even tell a horrifying story on the stand. The pictures I take will probably go the farthest in convicting the guy.”
Boris is looking at her. “How do you know all this stuff?”
“I was making a living off newspaper and insurance photos before I decided to go back to school.”
“I didn’t know that. I thought you were our age.”
Liz laughs. “I’m only a couple years older. Close enough.”
The door opens behind them and the doctor emerges. She looks at Liz and nods. “You’d better get in there fast if you want pictures because I’m releasing her.”
Liz and Boris go in to find Natasha throwing some clothes in a bag. “Woo hoo! They’re letting me out of here!”
“Wait. I have to take pictures first.”
“We can do it later! The doc says I’m gonna be fine, other than being stiff and sore. Nothing’s wrong medically except a lot of bruising. No concussion, nothing broken.”
“That’s great.” nods Bo, “But let Liz take the pictures here. She’s been holding out on us, She’s already a professional. Insurance companies have paid her to take pictures.”
“No way!” squeals Natasha. Why didn’t you say something?”
“I’m just here to learn like everybody else.” Liz stammers, suddenly uncomfortable, not wanting to stand out.
“Just let her take the pictures Nat. Liz knows what she’s doing. Tell you what, I’ll go round up some transport while you pose for her.”
“All right already! Just go, Bo,” urges Natasha as she starts untying her robe. Boris looks like he’d like nothing better than to stay, but he turns and heads out.
