Frostbitten

Chapter 5

Once the door finally closes I flop my head down on the pillow and stare at the ceiling until my eyes start to droop and I fall back asleep.

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I wake up to sunlight streaming through the window. It takes me a moment to remember where I am and what happened to me It still feels like a faraway dream that's slowly fading. I try to move and feel a sharp pain in my side. I groan and reach for the call button for the nurse. I press it a few times and wait for someone to come.

After a few minutes, Nurse Lyn comes in with a smile on her face. "Good morning, Rose. How are you feeling today?"

"I'm in pain," I groan.

She chuckled and checks the machines and my bandages before giving me a shot to ease the pain. "You'll feel better soon. You'll be discharged today."

"Really?" I ask, surprised.

"Yes, really. Dr. Johnson said you're doing well and can go home. We just need to give you some instructions and you'll be on your way."

I smile, feeling relieved that I can finally leave this place. I thank her and wait for the doctor to come in. When he does, he gives me detailed instructions on how to take care of my wounds and what medication to take. He also warns me to be careful and to come back if I experience any more pain or symptoms.

After the doctor leaves, I start to pack my things. As I'm packing, I notice that the flowers Nicolas brought me are still on the bedside table. I smile, grateful for his thoughtfulness. 

Just then, my phone beeps with a new message from Nicolas. 

Nic
Hey, Rose! How are you feeling this morning? Can I come see you before you leave the hospital? 

I hesitate for a moment, unsure if I want to see him after what happened. But then I remember how much he helped me and how much I owe him. Plus, I can't deny that I want to see him again. 

Rose
Yeah, that would be nice. Thank you for everything, Nicolas. 

Nic
Of course! I'm glad you're ok

I finish packing my stuff and I'm now just waiting for Nic to arrive. After a few minutes, Nicolas enters the room with a large smile on his face. "Hey, Rose!" he exclaims, walking over to my bed. "How are you feeling?" 

"I'm doing okay," I reply, smiling back at him. "Thanks to you." 

Nicolas chuckles and takes a seat in the chair next to my bed. "No problem. I'm just glad you're okay." 

We sit in silence for a few moments before Nicolas speaks up again. "So, how was it? Being in the hospital, I mean." 

"It wasn't great," I admit, shrugging my shoulders. "But the nurses were nice and the doctor said I can go home today, so that's good." 

"That's great news," Nicolas says, his smile widening. "So, do you need any help packing up your things?" 

I shake my head, gesturing to the packed bag on the floor. "I'm all set, actually"

Nicolas nods and stands up. "Alright, well let me help you get out of this place and back home."  

I smile gratefully and start to get up, wincing at the pain in my side. Nicolas immediately rushes over to help me and steadies me as I stand. Together, we make our way out of the hospital room and towards the exit.  

As we walk down the hallway, I can't help but feel a sense of comfort and safety with Nicolas by my side. Despite everything that had happened, I knew that I could trust him and rely on him if anything else were to happen.