The call I won't make

The shoulder clicked twice on the way to the gym. Just two small clicks. That was enough.

I did not go in. I turned around and drove to the Grampians instead. I know that is dumb. I know it.

I walked for four hours. My hands stayed in my pockets. The wildflowers were out. I did not take a photo. I just walked.

A woman stopped and asked me where the campground was. I walked her to the turnoff. I kept my right arm down. She did not ask why.

I drove home with the window down. The counter still had those four pieces of paper on it. Dr. Reyes's number is one of them. Caruso's is another.

I did not call. I am not calling tonight either.

I think I am scared the shoulder is done. If I call, I find out. So I don't call. That is the whole thing.