Zoe and I have been sitting in a parking lot waiting for a text message. The orthodontist office told us to text a certain number when we arrived and await further instructions. So I did and we waited. I received a response from a different number asking if Zoe or anyone in our household had any Covid-19 symptoms. I said no.

Meanwhile two other masked teenagers appeared in distant spots around the parking lot. One of them was pacing back and forth. The other was with her mom, although parents were told to stay in their cars.

We waited some more. I glanced at my phone every few seconds. I also took the opportunity to pump up our leaky tire with our handy dandy air compressor, because why not.

Finally they texted that they were ready for Zoe. I sent her inside. By then the other teenagers had disappeared inside as well. Maybe even the rogue mom.

I am sitting in the parking lot, alone, serenaded by the sound of trucks and construction and traffic. It’s chillier than I expected. Although I never especially relished going into the orthodontist’s office with Zoe, I always did because that’s what expected and because she wanted me to be there. Usually they have the parents sitting in a chair at the foot of the exam chair where the patient sits. I guess I’m there for moral support. But not today. Also usually I’m there for fresh baked cookies, but I don’t think they’re handing those out anymore.

All this waiting and messaging seems like some sort of spy game. But less exciting. And more disquieting.

Addendum

While Zoe was in the orthodontist’s office I walked over to the Safeway that’s in the same parking lot to get her some lactaid pills. While in Safeway I realized I had to use the bathroom. I did not think that would be safe and I decided I would wait until I got home. By the time I walked back over to the orthodontist’s office I realized I could not wait until I got home. The door to the office was locked, as they were admitting patients one at a time. I texted the number I had used earlier to gain Zoe entrance, asking if I could please use their restroom. I texted again that I was a little desperate. No response. Zoe texted me to relay the amount they were charging on my debit card. I asked Zoe to ask them if I could use the bathroom. Zoe said, “I don’t think that’s allowed.” I told her it was an emergency. Fortunately at that moment one of the technicians opened the door to let another patient escape, and said “Did you need to use the restroom? Go ahead back.” I sprinted past her to the bathroom.

Frankly I am amazed that this hasn’t happened before now, during two months of quarantine. All I have to say is, whew.