Chapter 10 - THE CHOICE THAT COULD KILL HIM
Gabriel's rehabilitation was painful.
Some days he could stand with assistance.
Other days, the weakness returned.
He hated depending on anyone.
Especially me.
One afternoon, he tried to walk without his therapist.
His knees buckled.
I caught his arm.
“Gabriel!”
He fell against the bed.
His face twisted with frustration.
“Get away from me.”
I stepped back.
He slammed his fist against the mattress.
“I used to run ten miles.”
I said nothing.
“I used to fight men twice my size.”
His voice broke.
“And now I can't cross a room.”
I sat beside him.
“Gabriel.”
He looked away.
“Don't pity me.”
“I don't.”
He laughed bitterly.
“Then what do you feel?”
I considered the question.
Then answered honestly.
“Angry.”
He turned.
“At me?”
“At what happened to you.”
His expression softened.
I continued.
“And at the people who made you believe needing help means you're weak.”
For a long moment, he stared.
Then whispered:
“I'm scared.”
My heart tightened.
I took his hand.
“I know.”
May you like
He closed his eyes.
And for the first time, Gabriel Moretti let someone see him afraid.
