8

Stella took a number at the hospital and lined up. She described her symptoms to the doctor when it was her time.

The physician gave her a peculiar look. "Have you been sleepy lately?"

She gave a nod.

"Did you feel nauseous when you're brushing your teeth in the morning?"

Stella gave another nod.

"And do you occasionally have the urgency to urinate?"

Stella was a little confused by this question. She paused to consider, then nodded once more. "Does this have anything to do with my illness?"

With a helpless expression on her face, the doctor asked again, "How long has it been since your menstrual period?"

When Stella heard that, she calculated, "A little over a month..." She didn't realize what the doctor was getting at until she said those words. Her expression gradually softened to one of comprehension.

The physician grinned. "I take it you've engaged in sexual activity lately? You need to focus more on your physical well-being. I refuse to write a prescription for you. To b