The Arrangement

38

As Maya's recovery progressed, her daily routine began to include regular sessions with her physical therapist, Rachel, in the home gym that Carina had set up with all the necessary equipment. Rachel, who had been instrumental in Maya's hospital therapy, continued to provide her services at home, adapting exercises to Maya's increasing strength and mobility.

In the home gym, Rachel guided Maya through various exercises designed to rebuild her strength and endurance. "Let's start with some light stretching," Rachel would say, handing Maya a resistance band. They focused on gentle stretches that targeted Maya's arms and legs, carefully monitoring her response to ensure no undue strain on her healing bones.

"Good, Maya. Now, let's try some low-impact leg exercises," Rachel would instruct, adjusting the settings on a stationary bike. Maya, though sometimes frustrated with the slow pace, understood the importance of these sessions. With each pedal, she could feel her muscles strengthening, a tangible sign of her progress.

Carina often watched these sessions, her presence a silent pillar of support. She would bring water, offer encouragement, or simply sit and work on her laptop, staying close to Maya.

Outside of the physical therapy sessions, Maya gradually resumed her professional responsibilities. Her home office became a sanctuary where she could focus on work. Equipped with an ergonomic chair and desk setup that allowed her to work comfortably without straining her injuries, Maya began to tackle her workload with renewed vigor.

She spent hours reviewing contracts, responding to emails, and participating in virtual meetings. Carina had adjusted Maya's schedule to allow for regular breaks to rest or move around, following Rachel's advice to avoid prolonged sitting, which could hamper Maya's recovery.

"Remember, balance is key," Rachel would remind her. "Work is important, but your health is the priority."

One afternoon, after a particularly long video conference, Maya wheeled her chair back and stretched, feeling the pull in her shoulders. Carina walked in at that moment, holding a tray with a light lunch.

"How's the mogul of the house doing?" Carina teased gently, setting the tray down.

Maya smiled, grateful for the interruption. "Better, now that you're here. This meeting almost lasted longer than my therapy session."

Carina sat down across from her, concern flickering in her eyes. "You're not overdoing it, are you? We can always adjust your schedule."

Maya shook her head, reaching for Carina's hand. "No, I'm managing. It actually feels good to get back into the swing of things. Makes me feel more like myself."

"That's good to hear," Carina replied, squeezing her hand. "Just remember, I'm here whenever you need a break—or just need me."

As they ate, they discussed both Maya's progress and the latest updates from Carina's projects. These moments not only brought them closer but also helped Maya feel connected to her professional life without losing sight of her recovery goals.

After a particularly challenging day at the office, Carina returned home feeling worn out and frustrated. Her projects were hitting unexpected snags, and meetings had been tense and unproductive. She hoped home would be her sanctuary, but as she walked in and saw Maya laughing with Rachel during a therapy session, a surprising pang of jealousy and isolation hit her.

Carina stood quietly by the door, watching them for a moment. It was irrational, she knew, to feel jealous of the bond Maya had developed with her therapist, but emotions ran high after a long day. She felt sidelined, even though she was the one who had always encouraged Maya's recovery and independence.