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I wish I could pull away and run to my room, but I can’t do a simple task like that right now. Harvey must sense my uneasiness because the next thing I know, I’m being swept up into his arms, and we’re heading for the exit, Asher hot on our heels.
“Where are we going? You can’t lift me like this, I have a wheelchair.”
“I won’t hurt you, Evelyn.”
“It’s not that. It’s unprofessional for a doctor to be carrying a patient around like this. What will people think?” I get worked up about protocols and rules, obviously coming from a highly professional background, it’s ingrained in us from a young age.
“It’ll be fine. I’m only taking you to your room, and then I’ll get someone to come back and check on you.”
I relax a little, which causes my muscles to scream at me.
Not more than three steps from my room, Josey rounds the corner of the hall and stops dead in her tracks.
“Shit, Eve, what happened?” she asks worriedly.
“It’s a long story. I’d rather tell you tomorrow if you don’t mind.” I really can’t talk to anyone right now. Being caught in Harvey’s arms is mortifying enough.
“Okay then. Make sure to message me if you need anything. Good evening, Mr. Fort. Good to see you picking up the slack around here.” She winks at me then carries on her way.
“I’m sorry about her. She loves a good pun or any joke for that matter.”
“Trust me, Evelyn, I know. Josey’s my niece.” Harvey drops that bomb as I’m gently lowered on my bed. “Josey does rehab here while she lives with me in the farmhouse.”
“I didn’t know,” I say quietly. How did I not know that? I truly believed her when she told me all of those things. “Why are you telling me about your personal life?” I ask.
“I like you, Evelyn, and so does Josey. I won’t hide that from you. I find you fascinating, and for Asher to take a shine to you, I already know you’re special; besides, teenagers like to talk. Listen, if you don’t want me to work with you, I won’t stop Asher from helping you. I see the way you work together. You have a special bond I don’t—I can’t destroy.”
“I appreciate that. Really. And I’m sorry for earlier. I was out of line. Thank you for helping me today. Asher’s not the only one who gave me hope.” I spy a glow on his features, regardless of how hard he’s trying to suppress it.
“No worries at all, Evelyn. I’ll be seeing you.” With a firm nod and quick movements, he’s through the door and gone from my room.
When I started today, I didn’t think it’d be at all theatrical. First Asher, then Josey, along with her new guy, Harvey taking over my session, then the very same man publicizing Josey is his niece. If I were only lucky enough to make this into a dance production.
Chapter Seven
Evelyn
Last night I slept the best I have since the accident. After working extra hard yesterday I was absolutely exhausted, but as an added bonus, I have this morning off; that means no physiotherapy for me until after lunch.
I was given my wheelchair back after Harvey left me in my room. Mrs. M was able to see me before her shift finished, which also meant she came back after clocking out so we could talk. She also brought Mrs. Daily with her, who is another of my physios. I needed that. Someone to vent to who’d understand. Not having my parents close and their lack of affection, alongside my friends ghosting me, I’m grateful for their time.
Sitting in the wheelchair this morning alleviates all the aches and pains. I never thought I’d give in to the pain, but it’s a whole different kind of pain from the different ways I used to push myself.
I miss dancing. That’s another ache altogether. That hurts my heart, my soul and my self-esteem. Until I can dance again, I don’t think I’ll ever be as happy.
I push my woes to the side and focus on the now.
Josey settles herself beside me. Being none the wiser to my dilemma, I keep my emotions in check, hiding the hurt of her lying to me.
“Where’s Tag?” I haven’t seen her with Tag for a few days now. “Is he snuggled up at home with Asher?” I use that as an opener for what I really want to say, hoping she’ll get the hint.
Josey goes to answer me then closes her mouth before looking in the distance, ignoring me altogether.
“I know.”
Those two words are all it takes for Josey to nod in understanding, but even then, she doesn’t outright answer me, diverting the subject completely.
“What are you doing back in your wheelchair? Weren’t you graduating that yesterday?” Josey asks, cautious of her words. I appease her by answering. I don’t want to be mad, but she needs to know this wasn’t fair.
