Page 59 of Knocked Up by Mr. Grump Lawyer

“He just needs a lot of rest, plenty of fluids, limit in screen time…” the doctor continued to describe the things we had to do to take care of Robert at home.

Robert listened attentively, nodding as he did and mentally taking notes.

“Can I see him now?” Robert asked once the doctor was done with the instructions and the prescribed medication.

“Yes, sure, Mr. Jefferson,” the doctor answered.

He led us to where Riley was lying down on a hospital bed. He’d already been transferred to a private suite, as Robert had requested earlier. Money certainly wasn’t an issue.

“Riley, son!” Robert exclaimed upon seeing the young boy looking weak and dazed. He wasn’t as white as before and was now wide awake. “How are you feeling?”

I hung back, simply watching them and thinking of my father and how we’ve bonded so much since my mom passed away. I smiled a little, confident that Riley wasn’t in the danger zone anymore and knowing that this little incident would most likely lead to a much better father-son relationship.

“I’m fine, Dad,” Riley answered in a frail voice. “Don’t worry… I’m…strong…”

“I’m sure you are,” Robert replied, chuckling. I was so relieved to hear and see him relaxing.

“I have a headache… but the… doctor… said it’s normal…” Riley explained.

Robert nodded. “Yes, you can stay here another night so they can monitor you for another 24 hours. I only want what’s best for you, son. You had me so worried!”

Riley seemed to grin. “That’s something new.”

Robert actually laughed. “You’re right. And only you can do that to me, definitely.”

My heart soared as I watched the relaxed banter between them, already seeing how this would bring them closer.

“I’m glad you’re one tough guy,” Robert said, ruffling his son’s hair.

“Because I take after you, Dad.”

Robert then hugged his son for a short while. It was such a sweet, touching moment that I couldn’t help crying a little.

Riley eventually noticed me. “Kayla!” he exclaimed, his voice still quite scratchy and faint. “You’re here.”

“Of course,” I said with a smile, approaching the kid and giving him a quick hug. “I was there too at the bake sale.”

“Yes, I got your gift,” Riley answered. “Thank you so much. I appreciate it, and I can’t wait to use it!”

Robert glanced at me in surprise; then he smiled at both of us.

“I’m sure you’ll whip up some amazing baked goodies while you’re healing at home,” I told him.

“Am I allowed to bake?” he inquired, suddenly looking anxious.

“Yes, I think so,” Robert said. “It’s not screen time and it’s not a rigorous activity. I can even help out.”

“Really?”

“Yes, really.”

Riley smiled widely and patted his dad’s hand. “Thanks so much, Dad. That would be awesome, especially since we can’t go biking or running yet.”

“Yeah, that’s right,” Robert said. “And you can’t play sports yet.”

Riley didn’t seem to be bothered by that. He was looking forward to baking with his father. Then he suddenly turned to me, his face lighting up. “Can you join us, Kayla? You should teach Dad to bake!”

“Oh,” I said, caught in surprise. Robert and I exchanged awkward glances.

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