Helpless

Invasion of Privacy

I was glad Johnny decided to go back to work. Tim and the rest of the crew had been extremely understanding of the situation. And they allowed Johnny to take time off for me. Though it was greatly appreciated, it had been time for Johnny to return and finish shooting. They were due to wrap up in a couple of days anyway. And then Johnny would have downtime to rest.

"I think I want to go out for a walk," I said, getting up from the couch. I was careful not to hurt my ribs. The doctor had instructed that I should walk and get fresh air so that the healing process would be faster.

"Are you sure?" Lin-Manuel asked. "Maybe we can just walk around in the backyard."

"No," I shook my head. "I think walking around the neighborhood will be good for me. I need the change of scenery."

"Alright," Lin-Manuel sighed. Occasionally, I noticed that he was glued to his cell phone. I knew Johnny and him had developed a close friendship since the incident. I also suspected that Lin-Manuel was probably updating Johnny on everything I did. Though it was flattering, it was also kind of annoying. Having both Johnny and Lin-Manuel follow me like a shadow, was not always fun.

We walked out of the house and began to walk slowly around the neighborhood. It was a beautiful, breezy, sunny day. In the low 70's. A typical Southern California day. I opted to wear a cap so that my bruises wouldn't be as visible. Not that anyone noticed that I was walking around. Everyone was probably at work or off doing something. And besides, my neighborhood was a gated community. I felt completely safe.

"At least Johnny is back at work," Vanessa smiled. "I swear that if it was up to him, he probably would have quit and stayed home with you."

"Don't say that" I said. "Because I know you're probably right. And that doesn't make me feel good."

"Why?" She asked. "I think that's cute. He worships you. That man lives for you. He is so in love with you."

"I know," I gave her a weak smile.

"What's the matter?" she asked.

"It's just that," I almost hesitated. "I love him just as much. But I have this nagging feeling. Almost as if I feel guilty that he has placed his life on hold for me."

"He hasn't placed his life on hold at all," Vanessa frowned.

"Vanessa is right," Lin-Manuel joined in the conversation. "He's doing what any loving partner would do. Be there for them. Care for them. Love them. And wait until they heal so that they can continue with their lives. Together."

I nodded. Lin-Manuel was always right.

"I guess I just felt guilty," I shrugged. "But you're right. And now I feel bad that both you and him annoy the crap out of me."

"Wait, why?" Lin-Manuel frowned.

"Because I know you're updating Johnny on my every move," I smiled. "Don't even try to hide it. I've seen how you two are all bros suddenly."

"I mean," Lin-Manuel smirked. "Have you seen him? He is a very good-looking man. I'm just saying if Vanessa and I weren't married..."

Vanessa elbowed him on his stomach and we both laughed as Lin-Manuel mocked being in pain.

"Don't start, husband," Vanessa laughed. "Or you'll be sleeping in Puerto Rico by the time we fly back."

I was so happy to have them with me in this crucial time in my life. I felt very lucky that I had family and friends that continued to check up on me. And that made sure I was safe. As we were about to turn back to walk back home, we heard a clicking sound.