Chapter 78
Alexander's POV
I felt choked after hearing Maisie's statement about being frequently beaten by her father. Now I understood that the wounds covering almost her entire body were a result of that.
While I was still lying in the hospital, images of her life continued to haunt my mind. What was it like to be Maisie, the wife I loved, yet also a victim of unimaginable violence?
The pain she experienced now became a part of my life. Every thought of her past stirred up mixed feelings—anger, sadness, and deep empathy. I wanted to protect her, but at the same time, I felt powerless.
In the silence of the hospital room, I kept reflecting on how I could be her support, helping to heal wounds that were not only visible on the surface but also perhaps hidden deep within her heart.
From now on, I would protect Maisie from anyone. I didn’t care who it was; I would never allow anyone to hurt her.
This determination burned within me. Each wound Maisie suffered was a reminder of how vital my role was. I was committed to being her shield, to provide the sense of security she may have never felt before.
There would be no more fear haunting her life. I wanted to be the place where she could feel loved and valued without pain or trauma. With every step forward, I would fight to protect her happiness, ensuring that no one could disturb her peace.
This was a promise I made for myself and for her, for a better future filled with love and protection.
I winced slightly as the surgeon changed the dressing covering my surgical wound. The pain was still present, but something hurt even more when I saw Maisie's reaction.
Meanwhile, Maisie gripped my arm tightly, her eyes filled with worry and sadness. As the surgical scar gradually became visible to her, I could feel the tension between us.
I knew that this scar was not just physical; it was a symbol of the struggles we had to face together. As she looked at the wound, I wanted to give her strength, assuring her that I would be okay.
Every second in that room felt heavy, but I was determined to show that even with the wound, there was also hope and love that would strengthen us to keep moving forward.
The wound had already healed perfectly.
“Does it hurt, sir?” Maisie asked softly, grimacing.
I smiled faintly, shaking my head. Even though the pain was still there, I didn’t want to worry her.
Maisie's gaze was full of anxiety, but I tried to signal that everything would be alright. In my heart, I was determined to recover quickly so that I could live better.
Her presence by my side gave me strength, and I wanted to show her that even with wounds, there was hope for a brighter future.
The surgeon pressed around the wound, ensuring no blood or pus was coming from the incision.
Each careful touch made me tense, but I knew it was all for my good. In the silence of the room, the sounds of medical instruments and the doctor's breathing reminded me of the focus and precision needed in the healing process.
Maisie stayed by my side, her eyes fixed on the doctor's actions. I could sense her pain, and that made me more determined to recover. Every second felt important, and I wanted to make sure that all this effort was not in vain. When the doctor finished, relief washed over me, even though a long journey still lay ahead to fully heal.
“Okay, the wound is safe. In one or two weeks, you should be able to resume normal activities, except for heavy exercise,” the doctor explained.
Maisie sighed in relief, her expression seemingly lifting a burden that had been haunting her thoughts. I could feel a calmness returning to the room.
The doctor's words offered new hope, and I felt my spirit beginning to recover. With Maisie's support, I knew I was not alone in this process.
We exchanged glances, and in that moment, we shared gratitude for this good news. Although the journey ahead was still long, we were ready to face it together.
“What exercises can I do for now, Doc?” I asked.
“Light exercises, like walking, gentle stretching for the neck and shoulders, are fine. Other than that, it's best to avoid for now,” the doctor replied.
Hearing that made me feel a bit relieved. Walking and stretching weren't too strenuous, and I knew it could help me stay active without pushing myself too hard.
Maisie smiled, as if sensing the burden beginning to lift. We both knew that even though this step was small, it was the beginning of a better recovery.
With a calmer heart, I was determined to follow the doctor's advice and give myself the time to heal completely.
“How long?” I asked.
“We’ll see in two weeks, okay? With a wound like this, it shouldn’t take more than two weeks to get back to normal,” the doctor responded.
I nodded in understanding. Hope began to grow within me. Two weeks felt like a short time, but it was also enough to prepare myself.
Maisie looked at me with full support, as if saying we would get through this together. With every passing second, I became more convinced that a better future was within reach.
We would face the next two weeks with enthusiasm, focusing on recovery, and enjoying every small step towards normalcy.
The doctor explained some small details for caring for my wound at home, as I was allowed to go home today. There were no signs of infection, and the healing progress of my abdominal wound was very good.
He provided instructions on how to keep the wound clean and when to change the bandage. Each explanation was given clearly, and I took notes carefully, trying to ensure that no steps were overlooked.
Maisie listened attentively, ready to help me with the care process. A sense of gratitude flowed through me; I felt fortunate to be going home in stable condition.
With renewed spirit, I prepared to return home, hoping to soon resume a normal life.
The surgeon bid farewell after Maisie and I nodded in understanding. Just as the door to the hospital room closed behind the doctor and nurse, someone knocked from outside.
“Dad, it’s Neo.”
Neo's voice jolted our attention. I felt relieved to see his familiar face. He had always been a source of encouragement and support, especially in difficult times like this.