Page 84 of Doctor Neighbor

I glance around the room, taking in the sight of the machines monitoring Maddie so closely. The nurses have been incredible, always there with a reassuring word or a quick smile. But nothing compares to the thought of Maddie finally going home.

“We’ll need to come back for regular check-ups,” I say, trying to keep my voice steady. “But going home is a huge step. You’ve been so strong, Maddie. We’re all so proud of you.”

Cole stands and wraps her arms around me, resting her head on my shoulder. “Thank you, Buster. For everything. We couldn’t have done this without you.”

I hug her back, feeling the weight of the past few weeks lift slightly. “We did this together. And Maddie’s the real hero here.”

As we all sit together, I can’t help but feel awe at how far we’ve come. Maddie’s road to recovery is still long, but seeing her smile and knowing she’s on the path to healing makes every moment worth it.

We spend the rest of the afternoon talking and planning for the day we can take Maddie home. The fear isn’t gone, but it’s no longer overshadowing everything. There’s hope now; with that hope, we can face whatever comes next.

Friday, October 4

11:52 am

I walk beside Cole as she pushes Maddie's wheelchair through the front door of their condo. My heart swells with a mix of emotions—relief, joy, and a touch of anxiety. We're not entirely out of the woods yet, but seeing Maddie's bright smile as we enter fills me with hope.

"Welcome home, princess!" I say, ruffling her hair gently.

The living room is adorned with colorful balloons and streamers. A huge banner stretches across the far wall, reading "Welcome Home Maddie!" in sparkly letters. Liesle and Anna rush forward, enveloping Maddie in careful hugs.

"Look what we did for you!" Anna exclaims, pointing proudly at the decorations.

Maddie's eyes light up. "It's so pretty! Thank you!"

I catch Cole's eye, and we share a moment of silent gratitude. The past few weeks have been a rollercoaster, but seeing Maddie's joy at being home makes it all worth it.

"Let's get you settled in your room," Cole says, wheeling Maddie down the hallway.

I follow, carrying the bags of medical supplies and medications we'll need for her ongoing care. Liesle has transformed Maddie's bedroom into a cozy sanctuary. Fresh flowers sit on the nightstand, and her favorite stuffed animals are arranged on the bed.

As we help Maddie get comfortable, I can't help but marvel at how far we've come. From that terrifying day in the ER to now, it's been a journey I never expected to take. But looking at Maddie, I know I'd do it all again in a heartbeat.

"How are you feeling, sweetheart?" I ask, sitting on the edge of her bed.

Maddie yawns. “I feel good. I’m happy to be home."

Cole brushes a strand of hair from Maddie's forehead. "Why don't you and Anna find a movie to watch?” Liesle bought her a TV and set it up in her room so she could continue to rest there. The two girls snuggle up in the bed as Liesle sets them up with Frozen.

Cole and I step out.

I turn to Cole, my heart full of admiration for her strength and resilience over these past weeks. "I'm going to head out and let you two get settled," I say softly. "You should catch up with Liesle, too. I know she's been dying to have some real sister time with you."

Cole nods, her eyes brimming with gratitude. I can see the exhaustion etched on her face, but there's a new lightness there, too. The relief of finally being home is palpable.

"Remember," I continue, "I'm just across the hall if you need anything. Day or night, it doesn't matter. Don't hesitate to call or come over, okay?"

She nods again, and I lean in to gently kiss her forehead. The scent of her shampoo, familiar and comforting, fills my senses.

"Cole," I say, my voice thick with emotion, "I want you to know how incredibly proud I am of you. How you've handled all of this... you're an amazing mom. Maddie is so lucky to have you."

I see tears well up in her eyes, and she pulls me into a tight hug. For a moment, we stand there, holding each other. All the fear, hope, and love of the past weeks seems to flow between us.

As we pull apart, I give her hand a final squeeze. "Get some rest," I say. "I'll check in later."

TWENTY-EIGHT

Cole

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