Page 48 of Second Chances

“According to the prescription I made out for you last time, you should have enough for another two weeks. I don’t think you’ll need any more after that, but again, if you’re unsure, then call the office.”

No.

I do a quick mental calculation of how many I have left. There certainly isn’t sufficient for two weeks. I think I’ve only got enough for two days maximum. But I’ve been taking more than the prescribed amount, so I can’t really argue against him.

My heart starts beating rapidly, wondering what I’ll do.

I’ll be left in too much pain.

I won’t be able to exercise.

I’ll continue getting fat.

I won’t be able to dance.

That can’t happen.

“Can I take over the counter painkillers if I have a bad day?”

Ryan tries to take my hand, but I know my palm is sweaty with anxiety, so I pull it away from him.

“Of course, you can. Just refer to the manufacturer’s instructions.”

“Thank you.”

“Honestly, you are doing amazingly. It was a nasty injury, and you’ve recovered exceptionally well.”

“I know. I think I’m just nervous. My boss won’t let me return to work until I get the all clear from you.”

“Well you certainly have that. Go back to work. Dance, invite me to come and see one of the shows.”

“I will do.” My heart feels a little lighter with the doctors confidence in me. I stand, and both Ryan and Doctor Phillips do the same.

“Hopefully this will be the last time I see you in my office, but please, if you are worried about anything, don’t hesitate to contact me.”

“Of course.”

Both Ryan and I shake the doctor’s hand and leave the room.

Ryan wraps his arms around my waist and pulls me in for a kiss when we get outside.

“Congratulations, babe. You want to go and celebrate?”

My head is too full of worry about how I can get some more painkillers to think about celebrating.

If I don’t get them, I’ve no idea what I’ll do.

I’ll be in so much pain. I can’t bear that. The ones you can buy over the counter are no use. They’ll not stop the pain enough to allow me to continue exercising.

I remember that a father of one of the girls at the dance school is a drug dealer. He was arrested once for selling prescription medicines. I need to get his contact details.

“Do you mind if we go via the school? I want to tell them all the good news.”

“Of course. Anything for you, I’m so proud of the way you’ve handled all this. I know it wasn’t easy on you, but you’ve done really well, and now life is getting back to normal.” Ryan pulls me in for a warm embrace, and a guilt starts to settle deep within me because as he’s giving me praise all I can think about is getting something to take away the pain in my leg…by any means possible.

Chapter Twenty-Two

Ryan

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