Chapter 30
“Doctor, how is he?” Sophia and Xavier anxiously asked after the examination.
Nathaniel’s doctor was a middle–aged man with graying hair but sharp, confident eyes. His deep, authoritative voice carried a natural reassurance when he spoke.
“The surgery was very successful. The spinal injury recovery will depend on time and rehabilitation, but we need to monitor for potential infections from the internal injuries caused by the accident…”
Xavier let his mother and Riley stay with Nathaniel while he pulled the doctor aside. Once outside with the door closed, he asked the question weighing on everyone’s mind: “His legs–is there any chance of recovery?”
The doctor didn’t answer immediately. After a thoughtful pause, he said, “Yes, there’s definitely a possibility. His basic neurological reflexes are still present, which is encouraging, but we’ll need to see how his recovery progresses.”
“However,” the doctor continued just as Xavier felt relief washing over him, “it’s unlikely he’ll regain full function. Even with extensive rehabilitation, his mobility may be permanently limited compared to before.”
Xavier’s brow furrowed again, but he sighed and nodded. At least his brother was alive.
“Thank you. We’ll help him through this adjustment.”
The doctor nodded and walked away. Xavier hesitated outside the door, dreading going back in. His brother had always been proud and fiercely independent. How would he handle potentially facing life with a disability?
Taking a deep breath, Xavier pushed open the door. Difficult as it was, Nathaniel needed to know. He trusted his brother’s strength.
After gently explaining what the doctor had said, everyone was surprised by Nathaniel’s reaction. He simply smiled faintly and indicated he understood.
Concerned he might be giving up, Xavier tried to encourage him. “Don’t lose hope, Nathaniel. With proper treatment, you’ll at least be able to walk again.”
Sophia joined in, “Your brother’s right, honey. If you keep fighting, you’ll get better.”
“Mom… Xavier…” Nathaniel’s voice was barely audible, but despite speaking slowly, he was determined to express himself. “I’m… not… giving up. I’m just.., grateful… to still be… here with you.”
His eyes moved to Riley’s hand holding his, and he added softly, “And… with… Riley.”
When he had pushed Riley out of the way, Nathaniel had believed that if his life ended there, it would have been worth it. Perhaps that was why he’d been given this second chance–for this moment.
In his previous life, he’d owed Riley too much–debts he could never repay. If saving her was all he accomplished this time around, he could be at peace.
But miraculously, he was still alive. He could still see his Riley, feel her love. He already felt blessed beyond measure–how could he ask the universe for more?
Besides, in that other lifetime, Riley had lost both legs and still found the strength to stay by his side. It was only later, after
1 M… Wo’ro Stuck in This Toxic Rebirth Loop
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Chapter 30
his own terrible mistakes, that he lost her forever…
So now, just being alive to be with Riley—even if he couldn’t fully recover–was already a gift from the universe. Of course he would work hard at his treatment and rehabilitation, all to be the best partner he could be for her.
Looking at the three worried faces around him, Nathaniel said nothing more. Time would heal him, and time would show them his determination.
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