Alden had completed various check-ups and was now awaiting the doctor’s decision. Hannah sat beside Alden, looking at the x-ray results shown by the doctor.
“You should have started therapy right after the accident, sir,” the doctor said.
Hannah’s unease grew; the doctor’s opening remarks sounded skeptical. However, she held herself back, not daring to speak.
“It will be very difficult to heal you; it will take a very long time. We can’t even guarantee that you will walk normally again,” the doctor continued.
Hannah felt Alden’s grip tighten. Although his face looked calm, his eyes showed deep disappointment.
“So, what are the odds, doc?” Alden asked.
“Only twenty or thirty percent. But, if you still want to undergo therapy, we will do our best.”
Hearing the doctor’s response, Alden just gave a brief nod.
“No, I won’t do any therapy. Thank you for your time, doctor,” Alden concluded.
He immediately wheeled himself out, leaving Hannah stunned in the room. She quickly stood up and bid farewell to the doctor before hurrying to catch up with Alden, who was already moving down the corridor.
“Alden,” Hannah called out.
“Please, Hannah. I just want to be alone right now.”
Hannah didn’t push, keeping her distance and letting Alden go. She knew he must be feeling incredibly sad and disappointed. Alden had high hopes, and receiving harsh reality made it even more painful.
Hannah didn’t mind if Alden couldn’t walk for the rest of his life, but she couldn’t predict what Alden would feel in the future.
She held all of Alden’s medical records in her hands.
Is there really no hope left?
Hannah didn’t want to force Alden because she feared he would push back and distance himself again.
So, what should she do now?
*
Hannah walked into Bernard’s office and saw Oscar working intently at his desk. The young man immediately stood up and nodded politely.
“Is Mr. Gulfman in the office?” Hannah asked.
“Yes, ma’am.”
Hannah opened the door and saw Bernard behind his desk, looking at his computer screen. When he saw Hannah come in, he immediately shifted his attention and stood up with a wide smile.
“Hello, Hannah,” Bernard greeted. “How did it go at the hospital?”
Hannah shook her head, her face looking grim. “The doctor said the chances are slim. Alden doesn’t want to continue therapy or anything. He must think it’s pointless.”
Bernard was shocked. “No other options? Or a second opinion?”
“I don’t think Alden would waste time seeing another doctor. It’s the most advanced hospital in Summerhill.”
“But you haven’t tried another doctor?”
Hannah shook her head again.
Bernard sighed quietly, clearly shaken by the news. Especially for Alden, who had to experience it. However, trying another doctor wouldn’t hurt.
“Have you considered going to another city? Or abroad?” Bernard asked.
“There hasn’t been a chance. I don’t want to ruin my husband’s mood by forcing him to visit another hospital, Bernard.” Hannah took a deep breath. “I don’t want him to feel pressured. Seeing him earlier made me want to cry.”
“I know an orthopedic doctor out of town.”
Hannah didn’t respond immediately; she just looked at Alden’s medical records she was holding. She wasn’t even sure why she brought them.
“Want to try going there?” Bernard offered.
“I don’t think Alden would agree. I don’t think so.”
“You can go, and I’ll take you. Just to see if they can handle it or not. At least bring the medical records and test results. You don’t need to bring the patient or redo the tests there,” Bernard explained in detail.
Hannah showed the results in her hand. “I brought them. But, I’m afraid to give these to Alden.”
“How about we go there tomorrow?”
“What should I tell Alden? He will surely refuse, even if I go, he won’t allow it.”
“Find a reason, Hannah. After all, this is for Alden’s good, right?”
Hannah was unsure about lying to Alden, especially since his condition wasn’t stable. But Alden would never allow it if she told the truth. Who knows, Bernard’s recommended doctor might provide a better answer.
Hannah had to step forward and find out herself.
She nodded. “Alright.”
“I’ll tell Susan or Oscar to postpone tomorrow’s meeting. Don’t worry, we’re doing this for Mr. Harrison. Hopefully, we’ll get a satisfying answer, Hannah.”
“Thank you, Bernard. I owe you a lot.”
Hannah left Bernard’s office.
Throughout her workday, she couldn’t settle her mind. Perhaps she should talk to Alden, even if not the whole story. At least she would know his reaction.
…
After work, Hannah searched for Alden at home. He wasn’t in his study, the dining room, the living room, or even their bedroom. She went to their room and was puzzled as Edward wasn’t home either. Opening the bedroom door, she was shocked to see Alden curled up on the bed.
“Alden? Honey?” Hannah called out.
Alden opened his eyes and looked at Hannah with sadness. Hannah immediately approached him, hugging him tightly. Alden’s face was red, his nose seemed stuffy, and his eyes were swollen. He had been crying.
“I feel like a failure,” Alden whispered.
“Wait, a failure at what? You are the most amazing man I’ve ever known. Don’t say that.”
Alden weakly shook his head. “I don’t want to go to any more doctors, Hannah. It’s enough. I accept all my failures and shortcomings. But this time, I just want to let it all out.”
Hannah nodded, gently stroking her husband’s back. “It’s okay…”
“You don’t mind if I’m like this for the rest of my life?”
Alden looked into Hannah’s eyes, seeking the most honest answer because he felt insecure. He feared Hannah would get bored and leave him. He didn’t want to be hurt twice.
“I’ve already told you, I accept you as you are. But if there’s another chance that you could-”
“No,” Alden interrupted. “I don’t want to go to the hospital or see dozens or hundreds of doctors.”
“Alright, we won’t seek opinions from other doctors.”