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Abbie awoke briefly only to feel her body moving quickly. She couldn’t understand what was happening around her. She opened her eyes to see white tiles passing along the ceiling. She tried to lift her hands to slow down the ride because it was making her sick. Without warning she started to throw up again. She heard people murmuring around her before she blacked out again. She fell into a peaceful daze she didn’t want to wake up from. Her mind was at ease and her body was finally at rest.
“Thank you, Doctor.” A man said quickly.
Abbie enjoyed her time of peace and quiet until she heard people speaking around her. She couldn’t place the voices, or the names used. Her mind was mellow mush. She heard people walking and speaking. She wondered what was happening around her. She wanted to sleep but everyone was bothering her by talking. She sat up in the bed wide eyed to yell at everyone.
“Will you please shut up!? I am trying to sleep here!” Abbie yelled. She noticed her father standing wide eyed nearby with someone. Abbie only saw the tall person’s back since it was turned to her. Her father seemed to be in a trance for a moment.
“Abbie! You are awake?!” Her father chimed.
“Yes, I am, no thanks to you. Can’t you talk somewhere else. I am trying to sleep here.” Abbie replied rudely. She was cranky.
“Abbie... You are in the hospital...”
“So? That gives me an excuse to sleep. Doesn’t it?” Abbie answered, closing her eyes.
“Abbie, you were in a coma. You’ve been out for a month.”
“WHAT!?” Abbie screamed, her eyes flying open with fear and disbelief.
“Calm down, Honey.” Her father replied softly.
“What the hell happened to me?” Abbie yelled. Suddenly the tall person turned around. The slightly muscular man was Charlie, the florist. “What is he doing here?” Abbie asked, crossing her arms defensively. She felt like her mind was going crazy with thoughts.
“Abbie. This is Charlie. He saved your life...” Her father uttered.
“I know who he is! He’s the florist who gave me the orange lilies sitting on my kitchen counter.” Abbie replied, bitterly.
“Actually, those are dead now. I brought you flowers often. I hope you like them... I have been checking on you since they brought you here.” Charlie claimed with a gently smile.
Abbie looked around the room to see orange lilies surrounding her bed, filling the starch space. She felt emotional and confused at the same time. Her mind started racing with new thoughts and feelings she hadn’t experienced before. Abbie started to shake with panic.
“Abbie, calm down.” Her father chimed.
“What happened to me, Dad?” Abbie cried.
“Ricky. I told you not to see him again. He drugged you. He was going to rape you. The police are searching for him.”
Abbie started crying although she hated crying in front of people. Considering the circumstances, she didn’t care. She let tears flow down her face. Her father came to her bed side to give her tissues and hold her hand. She quickly pulled her hand away. Abbie figured her father was putting on a show since Charlie was in the room. Abbie blew her nose then tried to calm down. Her head was getting fuzzy again.
“What did the doctor say? How is my body? Can I still fight?”
“Abbie, one thing at a time. The doctor said they still need to monitor you and run more tests. We aren’t sure if you can fight anymore...” Her father uttered, weakly.
“No. No! No no no.” Abbie cried harder, shaking her head rapidly.
“It’s going to be okay.” Her father uttered.
“No, it’s not! Fighting is my life! That’s all I have, Dad.”
“I’m sorry, Abbie.” Her dad sighed. “We don’t know for sure.”
“So, there is a chance I can fully recover?” Abbie asked.
“We don’t know. Abbie, right now we are just happy you are awake. Charlie, can you please go tell the nurse she is awake.”
“Yes, Sir.” Charlie uttered with a nod. He looked really concerned or scared. Abbie couldn’t place him or his emotions.
“Dad, why is he even here?” Abbie asked with a snort after Charlie left.
“He saved your life. He fought off Ricky the best he could until passersby called the police. Ricky kicked your rib cage and shoved you really hard causing your head to hit the pavement. There was blood flowing everywhere. The police showed up as fast as they could with an ambulance to save your life. Charlie stayed by your side the whole time. The least you could do is be kind to him for helping you and saving your life.” Her father urged in protest.
“Maybe I should have died since I can’t fight ever again.”
“You won’t with that attitude. Just be nice, okay? That kid took shifts with me to ensure someone was here to see you wake up. He offered and continued coming against my objections. He really cares about you Abbie. I don’t know what happened with you two, but he was here the whole time. We were about to switch shifts when you woke up...” Her father replied.
“I’m not used to someone caring about me.”
“That hurt, but you are right. I didn’t do a good job. I’m really sorry, Abbie. For everything. I begged God you would live so I could tell you how sorry I am. I really messed you up, for that I am sorry. I took all my rage and pain out on you. That wasn’t right.”
“You don’t say. Thank you for the apology.”
“I hope you can forgive me one day...”
Abbie watched her father start to cry in front of her. He was genuinely showing emotions she never saw him show before. He was scaring her with each passing moment. Abbie begrudgingly opened her arms for her father to embrace her limp body. Her father quickly accepted the invitation and started to sob into her shoulder.
She held her father close while he cried his heart out. She didn’t know how to deal with the new level of affection. Her mind was screaming while her heart erupted with joy. She slightly enjoyed the love flooding the room after her father’s admission. He seemed genuine.
Abbie observed Charlie watching from the doorway. He looked pained as if he heard everything. He suddenly walked away. Abbie wondered where Charlie was going. For someone that never left my side, he sure disappeared fast. Abbie thought to herself. Her father pulled away suddenly.
“I was so scared I would never be able to talk to you again. Abbie, even if you can’t fight again, you’re alive!” Her father cried.
“It’s my worst fear coming alive.”
“I know. I had to go through it too.”
“How did you do it?”
“I didn’t handle it well... as you witnessed. I felt like my life was over. I had my career but the woman I loved was gone. I was left with a child I hadn’t spent much time with. I didn’t know how to raise you or balance my career and time with you. I wasn’t a good father from the beginning. I tried but my efforts seemed futile.”
Abbie stared ahead silently, pondering her father’s words. She felt like her world was crashing around her. She wished she had followed her gut instinct to not meet Ricky.
Abbie yawned again as the nurse finally came into the room. She checked her vitals then asked about her pain level. She was used to pain, so she could handle the pain in her side. Unfortunately, her father knew about her high pain tolerance, so he asked the nurse to minister medication against Abbie’s wishes.
“Abbie, this isn’t just a bruise from a fight. Your whole side is wrapped with bandages because that piece of garbage caused three broken ribs after he kicked you. One rib punctured your lung. It’s okay to take medication to numb the pain.” Her father uttered after the nurse left the room once again.
“How long will it take for my ribs to heal?” Abbie asked.
“They are pretty close to being healed actually. They think within another month you should be good to go. We have to get you out of the bed soon to fully know your condition.”
Abbie nodded quickly. The nurse returned with a large clear bag full of liquid. She put the bag on the stand next to Abbie’s bed. She plugged the bag into Abbie’s IV drip then left the room. Abbie’s pain started to go away immediately. She started to flutter back to sleep from the new liquid flowing through her veins.
“I’m tired.” Abbie whispered.
“It’s okay. Just rest, Abbie.”
Abbie drifted off to sleep again. She blurred out all the noise around her. Over time she felt herself waking up again. She heard the tv playing quietly in the distance. She heard one of her favorite cartoons running on the tv. She opened her eyes slowly to see the closing pig claiming the episode was over. The theme song played before a commercial started playing.
Abbie shifted slightly in her bed. She thought her father turned on her favorite show to help her sleep. The old cartoons were her kryptonite growing up. She would stare at the tv all day until her father yelled at her and hit her to do her chores. She smiled to herself as the bunny started to trick the hunter.
She moved slightly to adjust in the bed. She didn’t feel comfortable and needed to get off her butt. She felt like her butt was sore past stiff. She tried to wiggle and adjust when Charlie suddenly appeared next to her. She jumped out of her skin at his close contact. She threw her hands up in protest to protect herself.
“It’s okay. Calm down. I’m not going to hurt you. I just wanted to make sure you were okay since you were moving a lot.” He claimed. “Do you want me to call a nurse or do something to help?”
“Yes please. I need someone to move me out of this position.” Abbie answered. She tried her best to be kind like her father told her. “I feel like my butt isn’t even attached to my body anymore.”
Charlie chuckled then hit the call button on the side of the bed. The nurse immediately answered. Charlie asked for the nurse to shift Abbie in her bed because she was uncomfortable.
Abbie rolled her eyes at the kindness in Charlie’s tone. He seemed to be a different breed of New Yorker. Abigail would have yelled bitterly at the woman without asking please. Charlie was really kind and compassionate with people. The nurse replied quickly in a soft and sweet tone. Abbie waited in awkward silence for the nurse to enter her room. It was difficult since she hated silence. Charlie cleared his throat to talk, but the nurse walked in.
The nurse was different from the woman who brought the pain reliever bag earlier. Abbie wondered how long she was out. The curtains were open unlike the last time her eyes were open. The night stars sparkled through the window.
The nurse quickly adjusted Abbie’s position in the bed by using pillows to create a fortress to support her on her good side. The nurse ensured she was comfortable while obviously flirting with Charlie. Abbie distracted herself by looking out the window. Charlie seemed oblivious to the woman’s attention and flirtatious attitude. Abbie rolled her eyes again then confirmed she felt better. She asked about food because she was getting hungry. The woman gave Abbie a menu then told her what she could have. Abbie decided to eat eggs with toast like she normally did for breakfast after a good run. She missed running.
Abbie pushed back the tears burning her eyes. The nurse winked at Charlie then left the room to put in Abbie’s food order. Abbie focused on the tv because she didn’t want to talk with Charlie. She wasn’t used to being nice. Unlike him, she didn’t ooze kindness and compassion. She was happy for the distracting old cartoons she grew up watching and enjoying. She knew she needed to talk to Charlie eventually since she could cut the tension in the room with a knife.
“Thank you... for getting the nurse and rescuing me.” Abbie uttered. “And the flowers, hospital stays, and kindness.” She felt like barfing from the new sweetness filling her voice.
“You’re welcome. I told you everyone deserves to be cared for.” Charlie uttered quickly then smiled down at Abbie easily.
“How do you do that?”
“What?”
“Ooze genuine kindness.”
“I don’t know. It just comes naturally...” He shrugged with another bright smile.
“You are different from any other New Yorker I’ve met.”
“Maybe that’s a good thing...” Charlie winked, reminding Abbie of the encounter with the nurse. Bile entered her mouth, although she didn’t understand why. She wasn’t the type to get jealous, especially over a man she didn’t like.
“Are you going to get the nurse’s number?”
“Why would I do that?” Charlie questioned, sounding really confused.
“You have got to be kidding me... She totally flirted with you.”
“I didn’t notice.” Charlie sighed, sounding bored with the discussion.
“You must be clueless. She was practically throwing herself at you... How did you not notice?” Abbie laughed.
“I wasn’t looking at her... I was paying attention to you the whole time. I’m not interested in the nurse, Abbie.” Charlie replied.
Abbie felt herself sober after her little fit of laughter. She looked up into Charlie’s eyes. He was being really kind and considerate, meanwhile she felt sick and scared. She didn’t know how to respond to him. She didn’t know what she wanted or what her future was going to hold. She decided to push away the topic. She didn’t do relationships or mushy moments.
“So, you like old cartoons too?” Abbie asked, trying to change the subject.
“Yeah. I grew up watching them with my mom.” Charlie said.
“Ah. That’s nice.”
“I’m sorry you might not be able to fight again. I didn’t do a very good job of defending you against that guy.” Charlie looked away.
Abbie could see his genuine shame over his physical weakness. She understood the feeling. “I hope I can fight again. I will cross the bridge when I have to and it’s okay... I’m honestly surprised you were able to stop Ricky at all. He was really angry and a lot bigger than you. I see you have been bulking up. You have more muscle compared to the last time we saw each other.”
Abbie felt a flush of embarrassment hit her cheeks. She didn’t mean to make the situation awkward. She hoped Charlie didn’t think she was checking him out or anything. She just noticed his body had changed from the scrawny geek she had seen before.
“I started hitting the gym after the horrendous accident. I wanted to be able to defend myself and another person if needed. I like to be prepared for anything. The guy is still on the run, so if he were to show up here, I would want to be able to defend you.”
“I’m not helpless but thank you.”
“Abbie, if you haven’t noticed you are helpless. You couldn’t even rotate your body...”
“I am not weak! I used to be able to knock someone out with one punch in the ring. I can’t be that weak after a month...”
“I know. I looked up videos of you fighting... Your name fits. Piper the Viper. I can’t believe how fast you could knock them out.”
“Thank you. It’s a talent I developed after years of experience and learning.”
“I heard what your dad said... about taking things out on you.”
“Yeah, I saw that. You left pretty abruptly.”
“It was the changing of the guard anyways. I needed to get food after sitting with you most of the night and day.”
“Don’t you have a job at the florist shop?”
“I own the floral shop. My mom gave it to me after she retired to join a mission’s team in Uganda.”
“Ah... That’s why you can be here more often than my dad.”
“Yeah. I didn’t want you to wake up without someone nearby.”
“Sounds personal to you.”
“Kind of. My dad died when I was young. He was hit in a car accident. I remembered seeing him in the hospital all the time. My mom said if you care about someone, you visit them especially when it really matters. My dad passed away after a blood clot hit his heart. Mom had peace because she enjoyed time with him before he died. I learned a lot from that. Since I saw you get hurt and I wanted to get to know you before the incident, I figured visiting you in the hospital was good. I wanted to show you that I care about you with actions instead of just flowers again.”
“Wow... I’m really sorry to hear about your dad.” Abbie answered, not knowing what to say.
“Thank you. It was a long time ago... What about you?”
“What do you mean?”
“I met you dad... Where is your mom?”
“I would like to think she is dead. She abandoned us when I was five years old. That is why my dad said what he did.”
“Oh... I am really sorry. I didn’t mean to pry.” Charlie answered.
“It’s okay. It was a long time ago.”
“Some wounds take a long time to heal though...”
“What is that supposed to mean?” Abbie answered, bitterly.
“I didn’t mean it like that. I was just making a comment to add to the conversation.”
“Okay...” Abbie eyed Charlie down.
Suddenly a staff member arrived with Abbie’s food. Abbie was excited to eat. She was sadly disappointed because she didn’t like the food as much as her personal home cooking. She ate regardless because she was starving. She made a face through most of the ordeal although she fought to keep her composure. She finished her food then pushed away the plate in disgust. She felt like she was going to throw everything back up.
“You didn’t like your meal very much, did you?” Charlie asked with a laugh.
“Why do you say that?” Abbie retorted.
“I watched your face. I nearly laughed when I saw your face pucker after eating the first bite of your eggs.” Charlie laughed.
“You got me. It was horrible. Like eating rubber. My cooking is way better.” Abbie uttered. She quickly regretted her comment.
“You like to cook?”
“Yes.”
“What do you like to make?”
“All kinds of stuff...” Abbie answered. She started watching the tv because she needed another distraction. Her throat hurt from the sudden talking session. She had one last question she wanted to ask Charlie though. “Charlie, what are you doing?”
“Watching TV...”
“No. I mean here. I get it, you care, but you don’t know me.”
“I want to get to know you though.”
“I can’t understand why. My life is a mess. I’m boring and I have a laundry list of issues men don’t want to deal with.”
“I’m not like most men though.”
“No, you’re not. You are really kind and caring. No offense but I am not used to that. It kind of makes me nauseous.”
“I’m sorry you haven’t experienced the kindness you deserve.”
Charlie didn’t look offended or hurt. He smiled at her from his chair nearby. He had moved the chair to sit next to her bedside after her food arrived. Abbie remained silent. She didn’t know how to respond to Charlie’s comment. He was right, she wasn’t used to kindness or genuine words. Her life revolved around rough and tough situations and attitudes. She tried to figure out what to say.
“Charlie, what are you planning?” Abbie asked quickly, trying to figure Charlie out.
“I’m planning on watching my favorite cartoons then sleeping in this chair like usual. Why? Do you need something?”
“Charlie, I’m awake now. I thanked you for your heroism and kindness. I don’t understand why you are still here... Don’t you have a life? I didn’t mean for that to sound so harsh. I’m trying to be nice, but I’m not used to nice. I don’t do nice. I typically get my point across with my fists or cutting words.” Abbie put her hand up to her face to calm down. She tried to approach the situation kindly like her father wanted. She felt defeated from the short conversation.
“I’m sorry... I didn’t know you didn’t want me here anymore.”
“I just don’t understand it. It’s nice to have company but I’m a loner. I’m used to being alone all the time.”
“I understand... I just wanted to enjoy time with you. Since we have been enjoying time together the past month.”
“I was in a coma.”
“Yeah, so.... We listened to cartoons.”
“You didn’t do anything to me... While I slept... Did you?”
“NO! I am not that kind of guy. I am genuine and kind through and through. I would never take advantage of you. That’s sick.”
“Good to know.” Abbie whispered.
“I don’t understand why he attacked you.”
“He and I used to be friends. I was a street fighter before I went pro... Ricky would set up fights for me then take the bets. I didn’t realize he was skimping me money by taking sixty percent... I confronted him which seemed to fix our working relationship until my dad took me out of street fighting. Ricky and I dated momentarily. He wanted to have sex with me, and I told him no. He hit me in the face and held me down. I got away. He showed up at my fight two weeks later. He hit me in front of my dad. My dad told him to never come around me again. After five years, he reached out. I was dumb enough to accept an invite to lunch... He... He drugged me and hauled me out of the bathroom after I threw up. I don’t remember much else after that.”
“That’s horrible. I’m sorry you had to experience all that. I can’t see myself ever hitting a woman much less abusing them like that.”
“You would be surprised, Charlie. I have been in a lot of fights with men. I got beat up pretty bad, but I won every time.”
“You are tough as nails. I understand why you hate being called weak... I didn’t mean to call you helpless.”
“You’re just afraid I’m going to take a swing at you.” Abbie laughed to soothe the mood.
“No. I don’t think you would do that to me.”
“I won’t as long as you don’t provoke me.”
“Is that a warning? Am I talking too much?”
“A little bit...”
“Oh. Sorry.” Charlie looked down at his lap with a sad face of embarrassment.
“I’m just not used to it. Okay? It’s nice to talk to you. I don’t typically talk to anyone about my life. I thought about getting a counselor. I don’t trust anyone though...”
“Why don’t you trust people?” Abbie gave Charlie a look. Charlie immediately apologized. “I’m sorry. Was that too deep or personal?”
“Charlie, who are you?” Abbie asked.
“I am Charles Douglas Eammon the Third. I am a florist and business owner. In my free time I like to read, kayak, swim, take long walks in the park, and enjoy life. I also enjoy deep, impactful conversations with beautiful ladies.” Charlie winked then laughed.
“I was not expecting that... Okay, then...” Abbie replied. “I would tell you about my trust issues and all about me, but I’m afraid you will run.” Then again maybe I do want to make him run... Abbie thought to herself.
“No pressure. You don’t have to open up to me.” Charlie answered kindly.
“You are easy to talk to. I will give you that.”
“Thank you. I hear that a lot.”
“I bet.” Abbie whispered.
“I heard that.” Charlie laughed.
“How are you so flamboyant and kind? Have you lived in New York all your life?” Abbie asked.
“No. My mom moved us her a couple years after my dad died.”
“I see. That’s why.”
“What do you mean?”
“You are too kind and chatty to be a true New Yorker.”
“Some New Yorkers are really nice though...”
“Not the ones I’ve met.” Abbie replied, wide eyed.
“Oof, that many? I guess I’m a breath of fresh air then.”
“That’s one way to put it...” Abbie sighed.
“Abbie, do you want me to leave? Because I can if I’m making you uncomfortable.”
“No... It’s okay. I kind of like the company. Just don’t get used to it. I’m a cynical grouch who isn’t typically kind to others.”
“Good to know. Promise me you will let me know if I get to be too much. I know I’m not what you’re used to.”
“I promise. I don’t typically hold back.”
“I’ve noticed. At least I always know what I’m getting.” Charlie laughed again.
“I guess so... I don’t share everything about me though.”
“Why not?”
“Because if I always said what I thought nobody would stay.”
“I think I would.”
“Charlie, you don’t even know me. You have no idea what I am capable of. Before the incident I could have taken you out easily.”
“Well, I’m the one who wanted to take you out... for dinner that is.” Charlie laughed. “You never called me.”
“Yeah... I know.”
“Why didn’t you?”
“You ask questions like a three-year-old. Why, Why, Why? I didn’t call you because I wasn’t interested. I didn’t want a relationship...”
“Ever? Why?... Sorry.”
“Because I’ve been hurt countless times by my dad and other men. I don’t trust anyone with my heart so what’s the point of dating? Also, my main focus was my career as a pro boxer. I didn’t want to waste time with a man. I couldn’t give any man what they wanted from me.”
“What did they want from you?”
“To sleep with me.”
“Oh...” Charlie answered, wide eyed.
“Yeah. I wasn’t willing to sleep with them because I didn’t want to accidentally get pregnant and end my career. That’s what happened to my dad. He met my mom, had me, then his life blew up... I wonder what would have happened if he hadn’t been with my mom...”
“Well, you wouldn’t be here. So, I’m glad he had you. And from what I heard and saw, he is glad you are here too.”
“I doubt that. I ruined his life. That’s all he ever told me.”
“Abbie, today he was crying. Have you ever seen him do that?”
“No...”
“It’s because he was worried about you and didn’t want you to die. If he didn’t love or care about you, then he wouldn’t have even been here... He may be tough, but he does care about you.”
“You are so good with people. I don’t get it.”
“Practice. I’ve been working in my mother’s floral shop since I was a kid. I fell in love with the flowers and their effect on people. People could be having the worst day, but a flower cheered them up. I loved the way people changed from the kind gesture.”
“Is that why you sent me the lilies?”
“I wanted you to be happy and feel cared for... I also wanted to see you again and ask you out. I wasn’t expecting to see you running that one day. I’m sorry for almost hitting you with the van. I was just so mesmerized by you. You looked peaceful, like you had no care in the world. I’ve never seen anyone look like that while running... You didn’t look very happy when I saw you the first time. It was nice to see you calm and relaxed for once.”
“I really liked my lilies by the way. My mom used to fill our apartment with lilies before she left. Orange is my favorite color.”
“I’m happy you liked them. We only had orange lilies in stock that week. I waited for them to come in because the cream ones were being used for a wedding. It just worked out that way.”
“I wondered how you knew I liked orange.”
“Maybe it was a setup by God.”
“Are you a Christian or something?” Abbie made a face at Charlie’s comment.
“Yeah. My mom raised me in the church. We were always in church or talking about Jesus. I rebelled a little when I turned sixteen. I quickly recovered and got right with God. What about you? Do you believe in God?” Charlie questioned, his eyes full of wonder and curiosity.
“Well, I prayed when I was a kid for my mom to come back. That didn’t work. She taught me about Jesus, but it didn’t really stick. I prayed the day Ricky was about to rape me. I begged God to save me. I guess He did... or rather you did for Him.”
“Yeah, I guess that worked out. So, you aren’t living for Jesus?”
“Nope... Definitely not... Are you going to try to convert me now?”
“I might say a couple things because of my beliefs, but I won’t pressure you. If you want to know more, just ask.”
“Okay... Is it a deal breaker if I’m not a Christian?”
“Kind of. I have hope for you though. I think you will choose God eventually.”
“And if I don’t?”
“Well, you already said you don’t want a relationship. I will probably let you go if you don’t want Jesus. I want to be equally yoked with someone.”
“What’s that? You make it sound like a cow plow situation.”
“Ha-ha. No. In the Bible it says to marry or be with someone that you are equally yoked to. Equals in the relationship and life. You don’t outweigh each other, and you don’t take over the other person. You are just equals in Christ and marriage.”
“So, you want to get married one day?”
“Yeah. When I meet the right girl.”
“Do you want kids one day too?”
“Yeah. Do you?”
“I don’t know. I always thought I didn’t want a spouse or a family since I was too focused on boxing... If I can’t fight anymore then I might be more open to it. I would have to think about it.”
Charlie nodded then turned toward the illuminated tv. “It’s getting late. Are you tired?”
“Nope. I’m wide awake... How long was I out?” Abbie asked, scratching her head.
“Um... I think five or six hours. I’m not sure because I wasn’t here. How’s your pain level?”
“Good.”
“Are you lying to me?”
“Why do you ask?”
“Because I saw your face twitch. Your dad told me about your pain tolerance and refusal for medication.” Charlie offered.
“Ugh. Fine. Yes, I am feeling a little pain. I just don’t like how sleepy the medicine makes me. I like to be in control of my bodily functions.”
“That makes sense. But you need to rest and heal up. The medicine helps you to get back to regular life.”
“I swear you are in the wrong profession. You should have become a psychologist or something.”
“Thank you... I think.” Charlie said. He stood quickly then hit the nurse call button. The nurse asked how she could help. Charlie asked for pain medication to be administered right away. The nurse claimed she would be down right away. Charlie sat back down in his chair with a yawn.
“Are you tired?”
“Yeah. I’m normally asleep by now.”
“Oh... I’m sorry for keeping you awake.”
“It’s okay. I like talking to you. Thank you for opening up to me... I know it wasn’t easy for you to talk with me.”
“You’re welcome. I figured the least I could do was be nice, considering you risked your life for me...” Abbie replied.
“It was worth it.” Charlie smiled.
Abbie felt a slight smile come to her lips. The nurse suddenly emerged from the doorway. She carried another bag of medicine in her hands. She smiled at Charlie then did her job. She checked Abbie’s vitals and machines to ensure she was all set for the night. She seemed to want to talk to Charlie. He remained glued to the tv. Another round of old cartoons started playing along the screen. The nurse left quickly. Abbie wanted to laugh at nurse’s reaction.
Abbie started to squirm in the bed. She could feel herself getting woozy. She tried to stay awake as long as she could. Charlie looked over at her. She was surprised to see him reach out to grab her hand. She didn’t pull back like usual because peace flooded from him into her body. She felt bubbly and warm from his touch. She couldn’t understand what came over her. It was the same reaction she had from him rubbing her back. She had never experienced a warm reaction after being touched in any way.
“Your dad or I will be here when you wake up. Good night.” Charlie whispered. He suddenly kissed her hand then smiled again.
Abbie was taken aback by the sweet and chivalrous act. She was about to comment but her mouth felt like jelly. She blinked fast while Charlie continued to hold her hand. The pain in her body subsided and was replaced by slumber. She passed out immediately while Charlie held her hand. Peace and warmth overtook her body in a new way. She experienced the best sleep of her life because she felt safe and protected.
