The knock came just after Ernie had set the kettle to boiling. "Just a minute!" he shouted out, making certain all was safe before moving to check the peephole. He bit his bottom lip upon seeing who it was, knowing this may likely be a healing call. Putting on his best bedside manner, he opened up the door and offered Zacharias a welcoming smile.
"Hey there! Welcome to Ernie's Palace where the special of the day is Earl Grey tea. I've got the kettle going if you'd like a cup."