Page 66 of Doctor Second Chance

I'm thrilled at the thought. This time feels different than last time. We are going into this with our eyes and hearts wide open. And I'm ready and looking forward to discussing what we are doing.

2:49 pm

I sit in the visitor’s chair, surveying the small mountain of items I've somehow accumulated over the past two weeks. It's funny how quickly a hospital room can start to fill up with things people send or bring to a patient—some of this stuff. I don’t even know where it came from. I arrived with the clothes on my back, and somehow, I have this pile of stuff that might require several bags.

The nurse bustles in, arms laden with plastic bags. "Here you go, honey. These should help you pack everything up. Once you have it ready, we will bring a cart to take it all down to the lobby."

"Thanks," I smile, grateful for her kindness.

As I start sorting through my belongings, I can't help but feel a mixture of excitement and nervousness. I'm finally getting out of here—for the second time. But instead of heading home to Florida, I'm going to Shep's house. I guess I could consider it bittersweet.

I carefully fold the cozy pajamas Izzy brought me, tucking them into one of the bags. Next, I come to the stack of magazines my mom left to keep me entertained.

I pause as I pick up the fluffy throw blanket from the end of the bed. According to my mom, Shep had brought it from his house when I was in a coma. She said he insisted the hospital blankets were too scratchy. The gesture touches me tremendously because he did it when he couldn’t even get kudos for this thoughtfulness. He did it because he is genuinely thoughtful.

As I continue packing, my mind wanders to our conversation earlier. Shep's offer to have me stay with him feels different this time—more intentional, more loaded with possibility. We’d agreed to have a real talk about what we’re doing and expectations. Part of me is terrified, but a bigger part is ready to see if there is something real there.

I glance at the clock, wondering how much longer this will take. Shep left hours ago to relieve Cason and get Opie, knowing the discharge process would take a while. I'm grateful for the time to gather my thoughts and my belongings.

The nurse pops her head back in. "Almost ready, dear? The doctor should be by soon with your final paperwork."

Chez Fonfon

2007 11th Ave S

5:02 pm

I can't help but smile as I slide into the booth across from Shep and Opie. The little burger joint is bustling with early dinner crowds, the air thick with the aroma of sizzling patties and crispy fries.

"So, this is the famous Chez Fon Fon burger I've been hearing about?" I ask, picking up the menu.

Shep grins. "Best in Birmingham. Right, buddy?" He nudges Opie, who's coloring intently on his kids' menu.

"Uh-huh," Opie nods, not looking up from his masterpiece. "Can I get a milkshake, Dad?"

"Sure thing, champ. What do you say we all get milkshakes?" Shep winks at me.

I laugh. "I'm game. After weeks of hospital food, I'm ready for some real indulgence."

As we place our orders, I can't help but notice how surprisingly at ease I feel with them. Shep's gentle way with Opie, the easy banter between father and son—it's all unexpectedly charming.

There's a warmth to their interaction that tugs at something deep inside me, a longing I've never had before. I find myself smiling more than I have in weeks, caught up in their playful dynamic.

It's strange how comfortable this feels, like slipping into a favorite sweater I'd forgotten I owned. I have to remind myself not to get too swept up in the moment, but it's hard when Shep's eyes crinkle with laughter, and Opie's face lights up with each silly joke his dad tells.

Our food arrives, and I bite into my burger with a satisfied moan. "Oh my god, this is amazing. Y'all were right."

Shep chuckles. "Told you. Hey, Opie, show Elle your burger-eating technique."

Opie grins, picking up his mini burger with both hands and taking a comically enormous bite. I burst out laughing, and even Shep can't contain his amusement.

As we eat, Opie regales us with tales from his Children's Museum adventures with Cason earlier in the day. Shep listens attentively, asking questions and offering encouragement. I am quickly drawn into their world, laughing at Opie's jokes and marveling at Shep's patience.

8:17 pm

I take a sip of my cabernet, savoring the rich flavor as I gaze at Elle across the small table. The pool shimmers in the twilight, reflecting the clear sky above. A cool breeze rustles through the trees, a welcome respite from the usual Alabama heat.

I turned on my Sonos speakers and have beach music playing lightly in the background. We both loved listening to the old tunes from the shag era back in college. It was one of the odd indulgences we shared.

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