Alex had a good night's sleep. Maybe too good.
When he woke up, it was already lunchtime. He didn't know how long Emily stayed with him last night, but it was long. They did a few more things that the two of them clearly enjoyed.
Just like the usual days, Claire was in his room.
Claire was really nice to take care of him, despite also having to juggle between her responsibilities in their own home. He really salutes her effort in ensuring that every one of them was taken care of.
"Claire, where is Richard? Did he leave for work again?" Alex questioned with curiosity lingering in his voice as Claire arrived alone in the morning.
"Yes. Your uncle had a business meeting for a week. He asked me to take extra care of you." Claire sweetly smiled as she fixed the mess in Alex's room.
She didn't know why but there was a stack of tissue in the trash bin. She remembered that she had cleared the trash the day before, before going home, so she was really confused.
"Did something happen yesterday night?" Claire can't help but voice out her curiosity.
"What do you mean?" Alex frowned as he looked at her cluelessly.
"Did you drop something on the ground, Sweetie? Because there's a lot of tissue in the trashcan."
"Oh…" Alex was startled by the sudden question. He chuckled, "Oh, it was nothing… I just dropped the water on the ground so a nurse kindly helped me out…" he answered confidently, despite lying.
He was always an honest person, so he was surprised by himself that he could lie this easily.
"I see. You should be careful next time, then." Claire sighed. She was really worried since Alex was still bedridden.
"I will," Alex nodded.
Before Claire could respond, there was a gentle knock on the door.
Knock. Knock.
"Come in," Claire called out.
The door swung open to reveal Dr. Reynolds, the man who had been overseeing Alex's treatment since the accident. He entered with a clipboard in hand and a warm smile on his face.
He was followed by a few nurses on his back.
"Good afternoon, Alex. Mrs. Adams." Dr. Reynolds greeted them both, his voice was calm and professional.
"Good afternoon, doctor," Claire replied. Her eyes were brimming with hope. She wished that there was some good news for today.
Dr. Reynolds glanced at Alex and nodded approvingly.
"I have some good news for you, Alex. Your recovery is progressing even better than we anticipated."
"Really?" Alex's eyes widened with excitement. He was really happy to hear about that.
"Yes. Your vitals are stable, your wounds are healing nicely, and you've shown good mobility in your arms and upper body. Now we just need to work on your lower body. I believe you'll be ready to be discharged in two days."
A rush of relief and joy washed over Alex. He could finally go home. Despite being comfortable in the hospital, he had gotten bored over the days. He wished to see a different view, so this was a good chance for it.
"Thank you, doctor." Alex uttered.
"That's amazing, doctor! Thank you!" Claire, who was on the side was beaming with joy. Her heart swelled. Her happiness couldn't be explained.
"I can't thank you enough, Dr. Reynolds. We've been looking forward to this." Claire's shoulders visibly relaxed, her smile matching her son's.
"I'm glad to be the bearer of good news." Dr. Reynolds chuckled at their reaction. However, in a split second he became serious once again.
"But, as you know, the recovery process isn't over. While your upper body is doing well, your legs still need some work. To ensure a full recovery, and as what I have said the last time I met you, Alex would have to go through physical therapy."
"Yes, doctor. I remember that." Claire quickly nodded.
Dr. Reynolds flipped through his clipboard and handed Claire a list of names.
"These are some of the best physical therapists I can recommend. They specialize in injury rehabilitation and will guide Alex through exercises to regain strength and mobility in his legs."
"I see…" Claire took the list, her eyes scanning the names with a thoughtful expression.
"How often will he need to attend therapy?"
"Given the nature of Alex's injuries, I recommend starting with sessions two to three times a week. This frequency allows for close monitoring and adjustments to his therapy as needed. I recommend that each session should only last between 45 to 60 minutes," Dr. Reynolds explained thoroughly.
Alex listened intently, his expression determined.
"So, if I work hard with the therapist, I'll get better faster, right?" He badly wanted to walk again.
"Exactly," Dr. Reynolds nodded approvingly. "Remember that consistency is crucial in this. And aside from the therapy sessions, you'll have exercises to do at home, even just simple ones. These daily exercises will complement the work done during your sessions."
"We'll make sure Alex follows the program properly." Claire nodded. She was already reading the list filled with different names.
"You have a supportive family, Alex. With dedication and their help, you'll make a full recovery." Dr. Reynolds smiled, his eyes were filled with encouragement.
"I'll do everything I can. Thank you, Dr. Reynolds." Alex met the doctor's gaze, his resolve was stronger than ever.
"You're welcome, Alex. I'll have the nurses prepare your discharge papers and instructions for you to follow at home. And remember, take it one step at a time. Recovery isn't a race."
"Yes, doctor."
Dr. Reynolds gave them one last nod before leaving the room. As the door closed, Alex and Claire exchanged relieved smiles.
"Two days…" Alex whispered. "I'm finally going home." He breathed in relief.
"Yes, you are." Claire's eyes glistened with tears of joy. "And we'll do everything we can to help you get better, Sweetie."
Alex felt a surge of motivation. Going home was the first step. Now, all he had to do was work hard, trust the process, and push himself to get back on his feet.
[Ding!]
[New Mission Alert!]
[Mission: It's Not Yet the Time to Partways!]
[Objective: Exchange contact with Emily.]
[Reward: +5% Recovery Boost & Improves relationship with Emily by +3 ]