Page 52 of Secret

Demarco eyed the doctor suspiciously. Trish fluffed the pillow behind him.

"Yeah, I know... I've heard them all. Fava beans. Chianti. If it makes you feel better, just call me Phil."

"Dr. Phil?" said Demarco. "That does not make me feel better."

This made Trish laugh as if she were acknowledging a deeper truth to the statement than Demarco was aware of.

Dr. Lexter was oblivious, had already moved on to his primary message: "We're going to eat something today. Nothing fancy. Some Jell-O... chicken broth—"

"Lamb?"

"Not quite—" Lexter continued, still unmindful. "But don't you worry... you'll be eating meat again soon. I promise."

"How do you feel, D?" Jack asked.

"OK. Less groggy." He gave Trish the side-eye.

"We had to induce coma a few times between procedures. It helps you heal faster when you're out. You've also been on pain medication... a plethora of antibiotics too... but you're clear of any infection so far. No peritonitis, or septic subsidiaries. You'll probably have to walk with a cane for a while."

"Jesus Christ," said Demarco.

"You got shot in the gut, Mr. Alford. It's a messy business."

"Ha, ha."

"Are you hungry?"

Demarco pursed his lips for a moment, contemplating. "Yeah. I am."

"Good. Visiting hours have been extended as well. We'll monitor you for a few more days and then you should be going home."

"How long have I been here?"

"Almost two weeks."

Demarco just stared.

"We'll leave you gentlemen alone."

As they departed, Trish turned back. "I'll have a tray here soon, Mr. Alford."

"You can call me Demarco. And thank you, Trish. I have a feeling you know me pretty well by now."

"You're welcome. It's good to have you back," she said with a smile, then pointed at the bed. "If you need anything use the button on that thingamajiggy."

She closed the door behind her.

Demarco looked to Jack, dazed.

"I know," Jack said, nodding. "It's a lot to take in."

"My head's spinning... so many questions... Insurance? A cane?!"

"Relax. You don't need to think about any of that now. First things first—you have to heal."

"And Alec... he needs to know."

"He does. I called him. I had to break into your phone. I hope that's OK."