Dougal sighed with relief as an 18-year-old male neighbor actually helped Dougal to the hospital by car. The 18-year-old seemed to have a friendly vibe in his character all the time. His face even showed the utter friendliness. Since that young adult was being so nice to Dougal that he decided that talk would be the great gift for his possibly new friend. 

     "Hello. I'm very grateful that you decided to help me even when my yelling got too overbearing to tolerate." 

     "Nah kid, it's all good. Say, how rude of me! I didn't even introduce myself. My name is Rick Mann Flickerson. What's yours?" 

     "Mine's Dougal Ray Abbott. It's nice to meet you at such an unfortunate moment. I hope my situation didn't scar you." 

     "No, it didn't at all. I'm only observing your health, young man. You look unnaturally pale and skinny to bone. I hope your family makes it to the end. Being an adoptive child is the worst way to go for a 12-year-old like you." Rick said. 

     "Wait Rick, how do you know I'm 12?" Dougal stammered. 

     "Your family is the loudest in our apartment, believe it or not. At least at nighttime you guys are respectful. Not that you guys aren't, but..." 

     "Don't worry, I understand, Rick." Dougal assured as finally the car made it to the safety of the front doors of the hospital. 

     "Is this the right one?" Rick asked."Let me check and see if it is. Wait here. I will try and not take too long. If I find them and the nurses allow me to stay with them and my parents, then you won't have to stay here." Dougal explained. 

     "Alright. I'll be waiting." Rick nodded as Dougal went out of the car, waved to his new friend a possible goodbye, and proceeded on into the bright white depths of the building. 

*****