Connection | 18+

Chapter Nine

   I nodded, absorbing the information, my expression impassive.

   "Additionally," the doctor continues, "she's sustained a few minor contusions and abrasions—nothing requiring stitches. We’ll be monitoring her for the next 24 hours, but as of now, there’s no indication of internal bleeding or other complications."

   The doctor pauses, as though giving both of us time to process everything. “We’ll provide her with pain medication and instructions for rest. I suggest avoiding any strenuous activities for at least six weeks to ensure proper healing of the rib. Do you have any questions?"

   I look towards Olivia and when she doesn't say anything, I ask, "Does she have a concussion?"

   The doctor checks his clipboard once before looking back at me, "We've checked but there are no signs of concussion but the symptoms will likely appear after a few hours. You don't have to worry just make sure that she rests and if she feels any pain, contact the hospital."

   I nod and think of what I might need to do. I look up at the doctor as he continues, "We've dressed the small cuts and wounds she had because of the glass, you'll have to change the dressing every day to keep them from any infections."

   Before I can respond to the doctor’s update, Olivia shifts slightly on the bed, wincing but then tries to mask the discomfort.

   The doctor continues, “With a rib fracture, it’s common to experience severe pain, especially when breathing deeply, coughing, or making sudden movements. It’s crucial that—”

   “I don’t feel any pain,” Olivia interrupts, her voice flat, almost dismissive.

   The doctor pauses mid-sentence, his gaze flicking to Olivia, clearly not expecting such a bold claim. He steps closer, his brows knitting together in slight concern before he nods. “For a few hours that is. Until the effect of the drugs comes down. It's likely that you still feel a little pain but don't mistake it to be you being better. You still have to be careful and follow the guidelines." He looks at Olivia like he knows that it will be difficult for her to do so.

   I lean forward, my voice firm but calm. "She'll follow the instructions." My eyes lock with Olivia's, a silent command.

   Before she can respond, the door swings open again, and Josh strides in, his expression full of urgency. He’s pale, wearing scrubs, and his gaze immediately lands on me.

   “Ethan,” Josh’s voice is calm, but the concern is unmistakable. “I came as soon as I heard you were here.”

   I glance at him, my posture stiffening. Who the hell told him I was here? Even though I'm in a completely different department.

   “Not me,” I respond, nodding toward Olivia. “She’s the patient.”

   Josh’s face relaxes a bit, but his gaze sharpens as he takes in the room and Olivia’s state. He steps toward the doctor, his professional tone slipping back into place as he reads the clipboard.

   The doctor, briefly informs Josh of her condition before turning back to me "We’ll be doing a more thorough evaluation once the pain subsides, but the fracture should heal without issue as long as she follows the instructions."

   I nod, thanking the doctor, the nurse trailing behind him as he leaves the room, leaving the three of us alone.

   Josh steps closer, giving me a quick smile.

   “Would it be possible for her to stay here for a couple of days?” I ask, hoping to buy Olivia some time.

   “But I don’t want—” Olivia starts, but I cut her off with a stern look. She isn’t in any position to make demands right now. Staying here is the only way the police might go easy on her.