"Who's next?" My question hung in the air as the waiting room fell silent.
For a moment, no one moved. Then, like a dam breaking, people rushed forward. An elderly man with a trembling hand. A young woman supporting her limping father. A mother with twin boys covered in angry rashes.
"Please, one at a time," I said, raising my hands.
Dr. Cobbett stepped in, his initial shock replaced by practical authority. "Everyone, please return to your seats. We'll establish an orderly process."
As the crowd reluctantly backed away, Dr. Davenport finally found his voice.
"This is absurd! One lucky guess with a simple fever doesn't prove anything." His face had turned an unhealthy shade of red. "I've spent decades building my reputation in this hospital!"
