Page 81 of Rejection and Redeemed

“Okay, but just know, if you want to go back to work, I’ll understand and no, that’s not me wanting to get rid of you. You told me how much you like being a nurse. I can imagine you bringing a smile to everyone’s face.”

Fran was touched and, moving the food trays out the way, took Jacob’s hand. “I do what I can.”

“I wonder if our decorating tastes will be the same,” Jacob commented, switching topics.

Fran grinned. “We can have fun finding out.”

“Excuse me, Fran, Jacob,” James said from the bathroom doorway. “The grab rails are installed as is the stool. It’s secured to the wall, so when not needed can be put up. I’ve left it down for you and cleared everything up.”

“Thanks, James,” Fran said.

“Yes, thank you,” Jacob added.

“Feel better soon,” James said, before leaving the room.

“It’s been nearly an hour, do you want to try the shower? I’ll help you walk there,” Fran offered.

“Please,” Jacob said.

“Okay, stay here a bit and I’ll make sure everything is ready for you,” Fran said, jumping up. He walked into the bathroom and a few moments later came out and went into the wardrobe.

Jacob watched him walk out with a clean pair of Jacobs PJs. Fran took his PJs to the bathroom, then came out, smiling.

“The shower is fully stocked, towels are ready and your clean PJs are on the hook. Let’s get you out of the bed and into the bathroom.”

Jacob threw off the bed covers, moved to the edge of the bed, and stood, wobbling a bit but staying upright. “I’m standing and it doesn’t hurt.”

“Now try walking,” Joe said, coming into the room, carrying a walker.

“I might try without the walker,” Jacob said, full of confidence.

“Just know that when you fall on your face, I’m laughing my head off,” Joe told him.

“I’m not falling cause Fran is going to help me,” Jacob said, looking at Fran.

Fran fake sighed. “Fine, I’ll help you.”

“Seriously, Jake, do you want me to walk the other side of you?” Joe offered.

“Let’s see how I get on first with Fran helping me.”

Fran wrapped an arm around Jacob’s waist. “Ready?”

“Yep.” They started walking. “Have I told you how much I’ve missed having a shower?”

“Maybe,” Fran said, helping Jacob across the room.

Jacob stopped by the bathroom door and leant on the door frame, breathing heavily.

“You okay?” Fran asked softly.

Joe rushed to his side. “What can I do?”

“Nothing, thanks. That was a long exhausting walk.”

“Look, there are about five paces to the toilet. Sit on the lid and have a rest before having a shower,” Joe suggested, looking into the bathroom.

“Yeah, let’s do that.”