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"As Dr. Thomason explained, the redundant skin and soft tissue fat were removed to minimize the bone-to-skin distance, the muscle groups are rearranged to serve a functional purpose in operating the leg, and the soft tissue facial layer is reorganized around the stem. The bone residuum is reshaped, and the bone canal is prepared."
"What does that mean, exactly?" Russell asked. "The bone canal is prepared."
"A specialized instrument is used in this. The internal component of the implant is press-fitted into the bone canal with it, securing early stability and future bone ingrowth. Finally, the stump is refashioned cosmetically, and the wound is closed in layers.
"It will take six to eight weeks after his surgery for osseointegration. Then he moves into the second stage."
"That's when they attach the prosthesis?"
"No, first, an adapter is connected to the internal stem, which is integrated with the bone. The fitting of the lower prosthesis will happen a few days later, and that's when the rehab and gait training begins."
"And that takes how long?"
"It depends on the patient. Everyone progresses at their own pace. A lot of it depends on how motivated the patient is."
Russell nodded. "So, realistically, he could be here for three months?"
"Yes. Three to three-and-a-half is realistic."
"Thank you," Russell said and looked at Naomie. "I'm going to step outside and call Mama so she can let the rest of the family know the surgery went well."
"Okay, if Dr. Thomason arrives before you return, I'll text."
"Thanks." Russell stood, leaned over to kiss Naomie, and left the room.
She watched him leave and then noticed Georgie watching her. "What?"
"I know we haven't seen much of one another over the years, a weekend or week here and there, holidays at the farm, but in all the time I've known you, I've never seen you like this."
"Like what?"
"In love."
Naomie smiled. "Well, that's because I've never been like this. Let's talk about you. Mama says she met your fiancé, and he's handsome and brilliant, but the two of you haven't set a date."
"No, not yet."
"Do I detect a note of uncertainty?"
"No. I mean, I don't think so. Or hell, maybe I am—a little. I—I care, I mean I care— I mean we get along good, but sometimes he's---I don't know quite how to put it. Possessive, domineering?"
"I can't imagine that working well with someone as fiercely independent as you."
"We're trying to make it work."
"But you're not going to set a date until you feel it's where you want to be?"
"Exactly."
"Good. Don't settle, Georgie. Not ever. You've always gone for the gold, worked like a mad woman to get there, and have done it on your own, so keep that spirit, and if he turns out not to be the one, then part as friends if you can and go find the man who is the one."
"Is that what happened with you and Mr. Walker? How did you meet, anyway?"
"That's a tale best told over adult beverages in a place where we don't have to worry about driving, so what do you say? We have a girl's night after Riggs is stable, Russ heads home, and I need a break from the lab."
Georgie laughed. "In other words, you want me to come drag you out after you've been there long enough to get the glassy-eyed, lank-hair, girl-you-need-a-shower thing happening?"
"Pretty much, yeah."
