He repositioned himself and began kneading the tender area between her neck and shoulders.
“That feels so good. You have the magic touch.” She felt like a happy bear who had just scratched a bothersome itch by rubbing its back against a tree and was now ready to have a long hibernation.
“You have so many knots back there. It’s no wonder your back is always bothering you.”
She blinked lazily. “I should have you massage me before every practice. Your hands are so much better than a foam roller.” She yawned. Her eyes were growing heavy, and her breathing was evening out.
“If you ask, I’d be happy to. But for now, bed. Is your room down the hall? I’ll carry you if you can’t walk.”
But Frankie didn’t respond. She was already mostly asleep. Charlie grabbed the nearest blanket, kissed the top of her head, and draped it over her. She didn’t stir.
As he turned the light off, she barely heard him whisper, “Sweet dreams, fair princess.”
CHAPTER 22
“Hello, Ms. Tomlinson; this is Dr. Rudd. How are you doing?”
Frankie dropped her keys on the kitchen island and held her phone to her ear with her shoulder. “I’m doing well. Thanks for asking. Is everything all right with my father?” It had been two days since he had been admitted to the hospital, and she was eager for another update.
“He’s doing just fine now, but I thought I’d phone you to let you know that during the night, he experienced a slight fever. I’d initially planned to release him tomorrow, but I’d like him to stay in our care a little longer.”
“Oh.” Frankie’s voice dropped. “Okay.”
“There was one other topic I’d like to discuss if you have a moment.”
She walked over to the couch and sat down. “I have time.”
“Great. It involves Mr. Tomlinson’s home care.”
“Oh, sure.”
“Based on my evaluation of him this morning, I’m projecting that he’ll be released to you sometime later this week. Once home, you can expect that he’ll spend the majority of the first few weeks on bed rest and will require extra assistance with everyday tasks such as bathing. Are you with me so far?”
“Yes.”
“Good. For my records, I just needed you to go ahead and confirm with me that you’ll be able to provide the necessary level of care for your father. Or that you’re planning to hire a visiting nurse.”
She wouldn’t let anything stand in the way of her dad’s care. They couldn’t afford a nurse, but she could make sure she was there around the clock to do what needed to be done.
“Everything’s been taken care of.”
“Fantastic, I’ll make a note in his chart.”
After she got off the phone with the doctor, Frankie sent a text to Charlie.
Frankie: I won’t be coming to the rink today.
Charlie: No problem. Take all the time you need.
Frankie: *thumbs-up emoji*
Charlie:Is there any update on your dad?
Frankie:The doctor said he’s on the road to recovery.
Charlie:That’s good news!
Frankie: Yes, it is.
