Everything spelt class, from the scenery to the building itself. Corbin was also
awestruck. There was a lot to feed one's eyes on. A wave of nostalgia hit me as memories of running around this estate flooded my mind.
“Good morning. You must be the nurse and doctor from the hospital… Mr. Brown has been expecting you. Come with me, please.” A young man who I assumed to be the housekeeper said, ushering us in.
“Thank you.”
We followed him in silence; Corbin, still taking in the beauty of the Brown home, while I on the other hand was already marking my time until I could leave.
Kevin and his sister were already waiting for us in the living room. Once we were before Kevin, the housekeeper excused himself and got about his other engagements.
“Good morning, I'm Kevin’s sister, Lexie.” She introduced herself to me and Corbin with a handshake, giggling like a three-year-old girl that was given her favorite toy.
She needed no introduction; I still remembered her face.
“Hi, Licia Michaels.” I responded, forcing a smile. I hadn’t as much as met Kevin’s gaze, and I wasn’t planning on saying anything to him, except when necessary or at least when spoken to.
“Corbin Henshaw, your physiotherapist.” He delightedly introduced himself to Kevin, who wore a cute smile. “I am a huge fan.”
I tried not to roll my eyes at that statement.
“Licia, Dr. Henshaw, thanks for coming. You guys are welcome. Please make yourselves comfortable.”
I wanted to tell him not to act like we were buddies. He addressed Corbin properly but was less formal with me. But I swallowed my words. It was too soon for drama.
Dr. Shepherd had brought us up to speed on his condition and treatment so far, but we had to go over a few details with Kevin. Not just for formality, but so we could all be on the same page.
“Mr. Brown, we are expected to report by 9 o’clock every morning and take our leave in the evening, say 4 pm, unless the need suggests otherwise.”
I could see the hurt in his eyes by my formality, but I was hurting as well, so who cared?
“Okay.”
“Sir, I would also like to check out the equipment in your gym, so I can decide on the ones to make arrangements for.”
“That wouldn’t be a problem at all. This way, please.”
Kevin led Corbin through a door just behind the stairs. I wondered what new machines were in the gym. It was one of Kevin's favorite places to be twelve years ago. He liked to show off his muscles and how many pull-ups he could do. And I liked to ogle at how his sweaty muscles moved as he exercised.
Lexie then shuffled close to where I sat, startling me.
“Oh, I'm so sorry. I didn’t mean to do that.” She apologized. I could see the sincerity in her eyes.
I smiled reassuringly, “It’s fine.” It was a good thing she distracted me from my thoughts. I had no business dwelling on those memories.
I could sense her struggle in trying to break the awkward silence. My guts told me she might try to bring up my relationship with her brother, so I quickly found an escape.
“Why don’t you give me a tour of the house?” I requested, hoping the plan would work.
She responded elatedly, “Sure. I would love to.”
“Right after you, then.”
Certainly!
Chapter Four
Kevin
