My Short Short for the Day

What kind of day would today be? Al thought. He didn't have long to wait. He walked right into a wall and promptly knocked himself unconscious. The team worked quickly, bundling Al up into a sheet and stuffing him inside an unmarked, black van. The driver left swiftly but with control enough not to let the tires squeal. People continued on their way without so much as a glance in Al's direction.
 
Slowly Al woke up. He felt groggy and his tongue felt like the size of a slab of beef. Mmm. A steak sounded so good right now. With that thought, Al's mind cleared and he tried to sit up. He couldn't move so he quickly looked to see what was restraining him. His eyes widened as he saw the strange, green leathery skin. What was it? Was something covering his arms? Maybe some strange blanket. Then he looked around the room. It was bright and white. Almost like a hospital room, but the smell was all wrong. There was an accident. He remembered he ran into something. Hit his head or something. He couldn't remember what happened. Where was he?

“Hey! Anyone here?” His voice croaked. He tried to swallow but his throat was so dry he couldn't muster up any saliva to moisten it.

The door opened and an older gentleman walked in. He was dressed like a doctor so Al immediately felt reassured.

“How are you feeling?” The doctor had a kind voice.

“I...I don't know. I feel kind of funny.” Al said. His voice still had a croaky sound to it but at least he recognized it this time.

“That's to be expected Al.” The doctor touched the green leathery fabric.

“What sort of blanket is that? Strange looking.” Al said.

“Oh, it's not a blanket Al. You've had quite an ordeal. I think it's best you get some rest.” The doctor pulled out a needle and filled it with some liquid.

“Wait, no. What's going on?” Al's heart started to race.

“It's ok Al. Everything will be fine.” The doctor injected the fluid into Al's arm.

Al started to feel dizzy and his eyes grew heavy. “No. Please, what is happening?”

Al passed out while the doctor watched. A nurse entered and took her place next to the doctor.

“Keep a close eye on Al. He may not be happy when he wakes up.” The doctor patted the green leathery arm gently before leaving.

The nurse took a seat by the back wall to watch over the patient.

Al slept.