The first day at Alex’s apartment passed quietly. I changed his bandage carefully in the evening. He winced a little but thanked me every time. I kept my distance and he respected it. By night I was tired but I felt I was doing the right thing.
I was in the kitchen making tea when I heard Alex on the phone in the living room. His voice was low but I could still hear him clearly.
“Yes, doctor,” he said. “The pain is coming back stronger at night. I can hardly move when I try to turn. It is worse than they said it would be. I do not want to complain but I need to know if this is normal.”
He paused, listening. “No, I do not have anyone here full time yet. Elena is helping but… I do not want to burden her. I will manage. Thank you.”
He hung up. I stood there holding the tea, guilt hitting
