51. Memories
At lunchtime the doctors allowed Bjorn to visit Larson. Larson was sitting upright in his bed supported by pillows. The head bandage had a red spot on the back of his head. Larson was eating cake.
- Hi, said Larson. I didn’t know you were in Pattaya.
- I didn’t know you were in a hospital.
- Shit happens, said Larson. I don’t know how I got here. The last thing I remember was strolling along the beach promenade, feeling great. Then I was in this hospital with a doctor telling me to close my eyes and put my finger on my nose tip.
- Could you do that?
- No.
Larson handed Bjorn a piece of cake on a plate.
- Apple cake. Have some. My mouth is too dry to chew. They deny me water. They say if I drink water it will swell my head.
- So you don’t know what happened? asked Bjorn.
- Well, I think a gang attacked me. It must have been half a dozen of them. I fought hard but was outnumbered. I am a fighter. I didn’t give up easily. You know how I am.
- Yes, said Bjorn. I know how you are. In any case your brain concussion is from falling backwards onto the concrete pavement with your head first.
- Unprovoked violence, said Larson. What is the world coming to?
- The police found your wallet on the beach, said Bjorn. There was no money it but your porn club membership card was still there. Your credit cards were gone. I have taken the liberty of having them blocked.
- How do you know my account numbers? asked Larson.
- I don’t. But I know your name and your birthday and which bank you use. I called Sweden. Your cards are blocked.
- That was kind of you, Bjorn.
Bjorn sighed quietly. He knew he was not supposed to upset the patient in any way. But he had something he wanted to say.
- Listen old warrior, said Bjorn. When this is over can you do me a favour?
- Of course, said Larson. Anything you want, dear.
- Go back, said Bjorn.
- Sure. I kept my room. Lek is waiting for me.
- Not back to Bangkok. Back to Sweden.
- No no no, said Larson. That’s not necessary. I will be fine. I still have two weeks left of my holiday.
- It is not for your sake, said Bjorn. It is for my sake. I am tired of rescuing you. Thailand is too much for you. I think you should go home.
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