***
Dr. Chopra inspected the incision site, her expression one of concentration. “Hmm. Impressive.”
“What’s good?” I asked, curious.
She gently pressed the suture line with her gloved fingers, applying just enough pressure to assess the healing process. “The site looks completely healed, no sign of infection. And the CT scan shows no sign of a recurring clot. That’s certainly a good one.”
Relief flooded through me. “So, does that mean I’m in the clear?”
“On my end, you definitely are. Just keep up with your diet and exercise regimen. We need to keep your heart functioning optimally.”
“That’s amazing,” I said, sitting up a little straighter. Her joy mirrored my own—there was something reassuring about seeing a doctor genuinely happy for a patient’s progress.
Dr. Lukeman entered the room, followed by three residents who seemed new to the hospital, judging by their wide-eyed expressions and awkward movements. “Sorry I’m late. I had to finish up a lecture.”
“It’s fine,” Dr. Chopra replied, stepping aside to give him space.
“Kevin, I need you to do a little range of motion exercise. Are you ready?”
“Yes, Doc.”
For the next thirty minutes, he put me through a series of exercises, checking every detail of my recovery. Finally, he nodded, satisfied. “Mr. Brown, how often do you feel the bouts of pain?”
I thought for a moment. “At first, it was almost daily, but now… maybe twice a week, and they only last a few seconds before subsiding.”
“Good. We’ll adjust your prescription. Take your pain meds only when necessary—about twice a week, based on what you’ve told me. And keep up with the range of motion exercises to prevent muscle atrophy.”
“What’s that?” I asked.
One of the residents, a red-haired young man with a freckled face, explained in a monotone voice,
“Muscle atrophy occurs when muscles aren’t used, causing them to waste and potentially degenerate. In your case, overstraining the muscles during recovery can lead to micro-tears in the fibers, resulting in inflammation and damage.”
I nodded, swallowing the guilt that came with the knowledge that I’d been pushing my limits more than I should have. “Okay, I get it. So, no more crutches?”
“You can resume using your cane. No need for crutches anymore, but be careful not to put too much weight on the leg.”
I sighed in relief. “Better.”
“That’s all for now. Just make sure to report for your next appointment so we can keep track of your recovery,” Dr. Chopra added with a smile.
“Will do. Thanks, Doc.”
Leaving the consultation room, I headed to the lounge to find Lexie. Much to my surprise, I found her deep in conversation with some guy who looked a bit too enamored for my liking.
“Lex, let’s leave,” I called out, my tone firmer than intended.
Lexie barely glanced at me. “Just a few minutes, Kev.”
“Now!” I growled, shooting daggers at the guy, who didn’t even acknowledge me. Infuriating.
Lexie finally stood, turning to the guy with a smile. “I’ll call you later. Don’t mind my brother—he’s not always like this.”
The guy grinned. “I get it. I’ll be waiting for your call, Lexie. Bye.”
“Bye, Justin,” she said, waving as she joined me. I fumed silently as we walked away.
“There’s nothing to get worked up about, Kev. He’s just a guy from school. We happened to meet here, so we got talking while he waited to see the doctors,” Lexie explained, clearly amused by my overprotective nature.
