Alex’s hand was itching to give Sheila’s round face a little pinch.

“You’re supposed to have your dressing changed today, Mr. York. Has it been done?” Sheila asked.

Alex replied, “Yes. This morning. I didn’t know you were on the night shift and was wondering why you weren’t doing the ward rounds yet.”

Sheila smiled. “I am indeed on the night shift. Your wounds have mostly recovered. You can be discharged if you want to.”

“I can’t leave if I haven’t fully recovered. If I return home, my elders will know that I was injured in a car accident. My grandmother is old. I don’t want her to be worried about me.”

Alex explained why he remained hospitalized.

“I also kept it a secret from my parents. Only my brothers are in the know. Everyone’s helping me to hide the accident from our parents.”

Alex looked toward his hands, which were still wrapped in gauze. “Although my injuries are mostly healed, it still hurts when I type or write. Even if I were to be discharged, I wouldn’t be able t