I am sorry I can't help you

I am busy with one of my patients.

Behind the privacy curtain the other (awake and slightly demented) patient wants something.

I stand next to his bed and say: "Look, I am wearing gloves and the plastic apron since I am busy washing your neighbour. But when I am finished, I will be there for you, alright?"

"Alright" he answers, while I vanish behind the privacy curtain again.

"And I am sorry I can't help you over there." he adds.

I smile a little bit.