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Dr. Evans arched her eyebrow high. “You don’t seem too excited. Are you worried because of your injuries?”
“I’m excited about the wedding, but I’m anxious to get out of here.” She forced her lips into an upward curve.
“Well, in that case, you should be in a really good mood now. We’ll send someone up with a wheelchair when you’re ready to go. You’re not allowed to walk out of here.”
“I don’t know how much rest you’re going to get with the boys in the apartment. They’re going to be so excited you’re staying with us.” Anne was already calling to make arrangements for a ride home.
“I think I’d be fine on my own,” she muttered.
“We’re going to do everything they say so you don’t risk any setbacks,” Anne reasoned.
“I’m sorry, Mom. You’re right, but I’m used to being independent.”
“Well, you might as well get used to losing your independence. I guess you’ll be married in a month, unless you’ve decided to back out of it.” She paused, and the air felt thick with emotion. “You don’t have to go through with it if you’re not ready.”
“No. I’m ready to get married. I’m not changing my mind.”
“Well, I have to agree with Dr. Evans. You don’t seem very enthusiastic.”
“It’s because I don’t like being an invalid.”
“Are you sure that’s all?”
“That’s all. I promise.”
Three quick raps sounded on the door and Olivia appeared. “Hey! I hear you’re getting out today.”
“Yep,” said Charlie. “Just got my walking papers.”
“I’m going to check on the car.” Anne slipped out the door.
“Stay in bed for now. I’ll pack up your things for you.” Olivia emptied the closet, placing the clothes in her bag. “Why aren’t you wearing an engagement ring yet?”
“I hadn’t even thought about it.”
“Well, he’s already got a whopper he made me wear when we talked to the ad litem. I’m surprised he hasn’t tried to give it to you yet.”
She didn’t really want to wear the ring he bought for Olivia, but she wouldn’t complain. Why worry about a ring if your husband doesn’t love you. “He’s been really busy since we got back. I’m sure he hasn’t thought about it.”
“Well, what are you getting him for Christmas?”
“I have no idea. I’ve been stuck in this prison, and I haven’t had time to do any Christmas shopping.” Charlie felt panicky as she considered the daunting task.
“Well, I’m going to take you shopping tomorrow... In a wheelchair.”
“I’m not going shopping in a wheelchair.”
“You know good and well you won’t be able to go any other way, and there are only two days before Christmas. You don’t have time to order online.”
“Ugh! I hate shopping. And I hate shopping in crowds. And I’m going to hate being stared at in a wheelchair.”
“Lucky for you, you’re going shopping with me. Because I love shopping. And I love shopping in crowds at Christmas. And I’m going to look so hot no one will even notice you in the wheelchair.”
Charlie chortled. “Ow! Stop making me laugh—it hurts!”
“It’s about time you got out of this grumpy mood. A few broken bones, a busted aorta, and a lost spleen, and you get all crabby and petulant.”
“Don’t forget the hole in my lungs. But that’s not it. The problem is I didn’t get to finish my ski trip.” She chuckled. “And I’m not kidding about that. I’m really mad I only got half a day on my board.”
