So High School | T. Swift x OC

fourteen

And now we leave the honeymoon phase

Eliot walked into the physical therapy centre with a noticeable spring in his step. The centre, a modern facility filled with state-of-the-art equipment and staffed by friendly professionals, had become a familiar place over the past few months. It was here that he had spent countless hours working to regain his strength and mobility after the injury that had sidelined him.

Today, as he entered the therapy room, he was greeted by the usual chorus of cheerful hellos from the staff. His physical therapist, Rachel, was waiting for him by the parallel bars, her clipboard in hand and a warm smile on her face.

"Morning, Eliot! Ready for another round?" she asked, her eyes twinkling with the kind of enthusiasm that could only come from someone who genuinely loved their job.

"Always," Eliot replied with a grin, making his way over to her. He had grown to admire Rachel's dedication and upbeat attitude. She had been instrumental in his recovery, pushing him when he needed it and offering encouragement when he felt like giving up.

They started with the usual warm-up exercises, stretching and loosening up his muscles. As they moved through the routine, Eliot couldn't help but joke around, his natural charisma shining through even in the midst of what could be a gruelling process.

"You know, Rachel," he began, his tone playful, "I could have sued the player that fractured my ankle for all she's worth. My legs are worth $50 million each, you know. And my feet? $80 million each. She would've been in debt for lifetimes."

Rachel laughed, shaking her head. "I don't doubt it, Eliot. You and your priceless limbs."

Eliot winked. "That's right. Just got to keep these million-dollar assets in top shape."

Rachel rolled her eyes good-naturedly. "You're one of the only people who are so happy during physio. Most folks are usually dragging their feet, but not you."

Eliot shrugged, his smile widening. "What can I say? I've got a lot to be happy about. Great career, amazing girlfriend, supportive family. Even this injury has its silver linings."

They moved on to the more intense part of the session, with Eliot doing various strengthening exercises. As he pushed himself, Rachel kept up a steady stream of encouragement and conversation, asking about his latest adventures and how he was feeling about his progress.

"I heard you're getting close to being back on the field," she said as Eliot worked through a series of lunges.

"That's the plan," Eliot replied, not missing a beat. "Doctor said I might be ready by mid-March. But I suppose you get the last word. I just can't wait to be out there again, feeling the rush of the game."

Rachel nodded approvingly. "You've worked hard for it. I have no doubt you'll be back stronger than ever."

As they continued, Eliot couldn't help but think about how far he had come. The initial shock of the injury, the frustration of being sidelined, the endless hours of rehab—it had all been worth it. And through it all, he had maintained his optimism, finding joy in the little victories and the support of those around him.

When they finished the session, Rachel gave him a high-five. "Great job today, Eliot. You're making fantastic progress."

"Thanks, Rachel. Couldn't have done it without you," he replied sincerely. He meant it; her guidance had been invaluable.

As he left the therapy centre, Eliot felt a surge of pride and determination. He knew there was still a long road ahead, but he was ready for it. Life had thrown him a curveball, but he had caught it with both hands, turning what could have been a devastating setback into a testament to his resilience.