“I won’t be alone,” I finally tell Dr. Royce.
“Good. The discharge team will bring the paperwork and pain meds soon. You’re free to leave after. Take the pills when needed. Trust me, you don’t want to spend your first night home without the help. And try not to be a hero taking risks, Seaborn.” His voice holds a flicker of dry humor at the end.
I huff out a breath. “Tell that to every coach I’ve ever had.”
“Recovery isn’t a game you win by pushing harder. It’s one you get through by pacing yourself and taking it easy day by day.”
The idea of going home, even for a night, sounds like both freedom and fear wrapped up in the same package. I miss my bed, but haven’t walked through the front door since my world shattered on the ice.
Dr. Royce’s footsteps draw closer. “This place isn’t meant to be permanent, Teddy. You’ve done the work and are ready to leave.” He pauses, his voice softening with warmth. “Let’s shake on that.”
I extend my hand into the space between us, a little uncertain, until his firm grip closes around mine. “Thank you, Dr. Royce, for all you have done.”
“No thanks needed.”
He leaves a moment later. The thought of calling Ivy here tugs at the edges of my mind. She must have a million things to do before she leaves for Japan, but I want her there when I go home. Not just because I need help. I want her to see my place and the version of my life I’m trying to piece back together.
“Hey Siri, text Ivy,” I mutter. The voice prompt beeps, and I let the words spill.
Teddy
Discharge papers are in. Royce says I get one night at home before rehab. They won’t let me go alone. Will you come with me?
Ivy
Of course I will. You don’t even have to ask. Today’s my last shift.
What time do I need to be there?
Relief crashes through me so fast it’s dizzying. She said yes without hesitation.
Teddy
Around six. I’ll ask about transportation, so you don’t have to drive us
Ivy
Sounds good. Anything else?
Teddy
Just…I’m so grateful to have you in my life. It means a lot
Ivy
Always, Theodore
A small smile tugs at my mouth. One word, and I feel ready to go home.
The cab rolls to a stop, and Ivy’s hand lands on my shaking knee. “We’re here.”
Here.The word sinks in slowly, not quite processing right away. Not until my boot meets the pavement and the sounds around me come into focus. It’s all wrong, the citysounds. Another door clicks shut, followed by the faint swish of the revolving door.Mybuilding. The place I’ve called home since the day Jasper told me he was moving in with Vivian.
Letting out a shaky breath, I straighten my spine. Ivy walks around to my side and gently rests her hand on the bend of my arm. “You ready?” she asks.
I nod, and my hand tightens slightly around the handle of my white cane. I’ve been learning to use it at the hospital, but it still feels unfamiliar. We take a few steps together toward the entrance, and the doorman speaks.
“Mr. Seaborn. Welcome home.”
