A Hard Pill to Swallow

As a pharmacist, I counsel patients on their new medications. One day, I was informing a woman about the side effects of her prescription, specifically drowsiness. “You won’t be able to work or drive while you’re taking this,” I told her. “Do you have any questions?” Her little boy, who had been quietly standing next to her, raised his hand. “Can she still cook?” he asked. “Of course she can,” I replied. His mother explained ruefully, “He was hoping you’d say no.” —Lita Hernandez

Manchaca, texas