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“Have you tried to speak with the doctor about bringing her home and getting the therapy done from here? We have a fully equipped gym and work out area onsite. It would help us all to be working from the same compound.”
“I might. I don’t want to get her hopes up. I’ll keep you updated. Can you get Mom or Aria to give my house a once over, make sure everything is accessible in case Shay gets home soon?”
“Of course. You know they’ll do anything to help. I’m gonna go, but if I hear anything, I’ll let you know.”
“Thanks, bro.”
I hang up the cell and sit back to watch Shay. I’m interested in everything she does. I don’t want to miss a thing.
I think it will take a long time before we have the old Shay back, but each day, I see a glimmer of that Shay shining through. I can only imagine the pain and heartache she’s suffered, but I can promise her I’ll protect her every minute of the day from this day forward.
“She’s determined.”
I look up and see Shay’s doctor walking toward me. He takes a seat at my side and looks as enamored by Shay as I am.
“She’s always had that fighting spirit. Try being her boss and putting up with her stubborn ass.” I laugh and shake my head. “I ran a full team of soldiers, but she was the only one who would give me hell.”
“I can imagine.” He laughs with me.
“I’m glad I’ve got you on your own without Shay in earshot.”
“Uh-oh. I don’t like the sound of this.” He sits up and crosses his arms over his chest. “What’s up?”
“What are the chances of us getting Shay home? Her therapy can continue there. I have a full gym on site. I’m thinking getting her away from here might see a quicker recovery. She’s told me many times that the room she’s in is like the room she was held in. That can’t be good for the mind, right?”
He rolls his eyes and smiles. “I’ve been waiting for this question.”
“And…?” I push.
“And, technically, she isn’t getting any medication that she can’t take at home. Her physiotherapy and occupational therapy can be continued at home. However, do you really think she’s ready for that? I really want her to speak to someone, but she refuses flat out.”
My back stiffens because I’m not sure if the doctor has witnessed or heard Shay say something that has made him say that.
“I’ve lost count of how many times she’s asked to go home,” I say,
He nods. “Will she accept help? Mentally, I think it would do her good to speak with a psychologist. Again, it can be done at home, but are you ready for the responsibility, Clay?”
“I was born ready. I’m not saying I’ll force her to talk to someone, but we have plenty of counsellors that work with us. Maybe a brief introduction by chance.” I raise my eyebrows. “She’ll feel more at ease talking to someone she gets to know. You don’t need to worry about me. I’m ready for whatever is thrown our way.”
“It won’t be easy. You’re the closest one to Shay. You’ll feel the brunt of every tantrum, outburst, and hateful word.”
I sigh. I know what the doc is trying to do. He’s trying to put me off letting Shay come home, but I’m fully aware of what we’re going to face.
“I know. I’m aware. I’m more than capable of dealing with Shay. Besides, her family is at my house as well. She’ll have more freedom.”
“Speak to her and see what she wants to do. If you both want this, I’ll discharge her into your care. Therapy will be continued daily, yes?”
“Absolutely. My brother is also a fitness instructor. He’ll step in when he can.” I feel the biggest smile spread over my face. I can’t hide my excitement. You’d think I’d won the lottery. “Thanks, Doc. I can’t thank you enough for everything you’ve done for Shay. In a week, the difference is unreal.”
“People with a good support network heal and get along better. I did the medical work, but you guys have helped her regain her confidence, and that has helped her get where she is today. The hard work begins now.”
I’ve felt helpless since Shay has been in the hospital, but listening to everything the doctor just said makes sense. If Shay was stuck in some army-base hospital away from her family, she wouldn’t be as strong. I’ve witnessed that first-hand with my soldiers.
“Come and find me when you’re ready.”
“Thanks, Doc.”
