Page 81 of Doctor Second Chance

She holds up her hand. "Yes, I've been downgraded. Now I can velcro on and off this neat-o splint," she says, directing it to Opie to show him. "No more wrapping it over and over with that bandage.

Elle stands, wrapping an arm around my waist. "How'd it go?" she asks quietly.

I nod, not wanting to get into details with Opie right there. "We'll talk later. But, in a few words, it went well."

"Elle, will you help me build it?" Opie asks, bouncing on his toes.

"Of course, buddy! I'd love to," she replies enthusiastically.

As we walk to baggage claim, Opie chatters away. "I'm gonna make it for my mom so she can fly back to Birmingham!"

My throat tightens, but Elle smoothly responds, "That's such a thoughtful idea, Opie. I'm sure she'll love it."

Elle squeezes my hand, and I'm grateful for her presence. Having her here, supporting us without overstepping, means more than I can express.

I watch Elle and Opie interact as we collect our bags and head to the car. She listens intently as he describes every detail of the spaceship, asking questions and showing genuine interest. It strikes me how naturally they relate.

7:12 pm

I close Opie's bedroom door quietly, my heart at peace with our trip and the fact that he's finally asleep. The trip to Houston was emotionally draining for both of us, but especially for my little guy. I pause in the hallway, taking a deep breath to center myself before heading downstairs.

As I step onto the patio, I see Elle sitting there, two glasses of wine on the table. The sight of her waiting for me, ready to offer comfort and support, nearly brings me to tears.

"Hey," I say softly, sinking into the sofa beside her.

Elle slides a glass of red wine towards me. "I thought you might need this."

I take a sip, savoring the rich flavor. "You have no idea how much I need this. Thank you."

We sit in comfortable silence for a moment, and the cool evening air is a welcome respite after the Houston heat. Elle reaches over and takes my hand, her thumb tracing soothing circles on my skin.

"How are you holding up?" she asks gently, breaking the silence.

I exhale slowly, trying to gather my thoughts. “You know, I’m doing okay. There were several moments I dreaded, but honestly, it went better than I anticipated. And I’m so grateful to you for helping me come to the decision to take him. That was the right call, and I’m so glad he got to see his mom."

Elle nods, her eyes full of empathy. "You're doing an amazing job, Shep. Opie's lucky to have you as his dad."

Her words warm me, and I squeeze her hand in gratitude. "I'm lucky to have you here," I admit. "I don't know how I'd handle all this without you."

Elle leans in, resting her head on my shoulder. "I'm here for as long as you need me."

We sit there, sipping our wine and watching the stars come out. Elle's presence is a balm to my frayed nerves, and I find myself relaxing for the first time in days.

TWENTY-SIX

Elle

Monday, July 29

UAB Hospital

9:16 am

I sit nervously on the exam table, my heart racing as Dr. Hampton walks in. He's holding my scans, and I try to read his expression, searching for any hint of what he's about to tell me.

"Well, Elle," he says with a smile, "I've got great news. Your scans look amazing."

I let myself breathe. "Really?"

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