Page 25 of Playing the Game
“Why?”
“It’s strong, and sometimes they taper it down so patients have an easier time waking up. It can help determine if he has other issues we’re unaware of right now.”
“So he won’t wake up because of his pain medication?”
“He could still wake up. It might just take a while on the amount he’s receiving, but they’ll wait to determine if changing the dose is necessary. Right now, his comfort is more important.”
I nod, acknowledging her answer. “Is talking to him harmful to him?”
“No. I’m sure it consoles him on some level.”
I run my palm over his cheek as she completes her task. She leaves the room, and I take his hand in mine.
I kiss it and inhale, trying to memorize everything about him. “The nurse said you probably need the rest, but I’d loveto see your baby blues soon, so don’t take too long, okay? I miss you too much.”
His monitors remain the same. My chest squeezes, fearing I’ll never get to look into his eyes again.
I place his hand back on the bed. “What story should I tell you next?”
There’s a knock on the open door. “Hey there. Is it okay if I join you?”
I turn toward the opening where Melanie stands. “Of course. I’m sure Jami would love it if you came in and gave him some of your charm.”
“You know he would.”
I show her a gentle smile.
She hands me Jami’s phone. “You left this in the waiting room last night. I thought you might want it.”
“Thanks.” I take it from her. “I’ve got to figure out how to get a hold of his staff. They’re probably wondering about him.”
“We’ll figure something out together.”
“Okay. I appreciate that. I’m having a hard time knowing what to do.”
“Try not to put so much pressure on yourself.”
“How do I do that?”
She shrugs and pulls up a chair next to me.
She looks at Jami. “Hey, big guy. It’s time you open your eyes. You know why? Because we have your phone, and I’ve figured out your passcode. I’ll give you until noon, but if you stay asleep even a second over, I will open it and read all your messages.”
I almost laugh, but then I realize she could be serious. “Is that true?”
She winks. “Every last word.”
We wait for a reaction, but Jami remains still.
Mel sighs, leans over, and hugs me. I let her hold me for a full minute so I don’t fall apart. Her comfort gives me much-needed warmth.
She pulls away. “What’s the word?”
“They said he could wake up at any time. He’s on a powerful painkiller, so it may take a while. If it takes too long, they’ll adjust the medication, but they say he’s doing better than they expected. It’s a waiting game at this point.”
“That’s great news, Dori.” She glances over her shoulder. “I couldn’t help but notice the two guys waiting outside his room. Are they security people?”
“Yeah. Hunter got permission from the hospital to station his own guys out there.” Guilt tightens around my heart. “Mel, this is all my fault.”
