ODDS OF LOVE - SEASON 14

Episode 30

As Richard , Nigel and a too quiet Lewis entered the lobby of the elegant Moss Center in Bethesda ,  which still looked like a too fancy hotel resort to them , they were almost instantly greeted by a very familiar face.

Reverend Lynn Lawton , who was the head of the therapeutic department of the nursing and rehabilitation center as well as a family friend ; she also was Richard's brother and brother in law's therapist , smiled with calm support at them all especially Lewis. Lewis refused to meet her eyes or anyone's as he stood in the lobby looking extremely uncomfortable.

" Hello ," she said softly. " Welcome to the Moss Center. I'm so glad we were able to find a space for you, Lewis, dear. "

Lewis didn't respond. He just kept looking down at the marble floor in silence. Richard touched his son on the shoulder and replied," Lewis, Reverend Lynn is talking to you, son. "

Nigel bit his lip and went to sit down on a nearby overstuffed sofa by the elevators , watching his husband and stepson with growing worry building in his body.

Lynn looked at Richard and then his young son with compassion shining on her slightly lined dark brown skin. " It's okay, Richard. I'm sure this is all a little overwhelming for Lewis here. Being out of the hospital and into a new very different environment. It can be a little emotionally traumatic. " She shifted her gaze back to Richard, saying," I'm hoping though Lewis won't be here long but long enough to work out whatever is troubling his mind and spirit so much. We're not going to rush things though. I know you are very familiar with the center through your brother's stay here as well as DuBuis but this will be a little different. Lewis is here for therapy which he will have twice a day Monday to Friday with myself. He will also participate in an once a day support group with a few other young people like himself we have here. He can use his laptop for remote schooling and class assignments but otherwise the device will be kept in the director's office. As will his cell phone. "

Nigel saw alarm growing within his husband's eyes and he asked," But he can still call us? His friends ? And we can call him? While he is here? "

Lynn glanced at Nigel with a smile. "Certainly, dear. We just want him concentrating more on finding solutions for whatever troubles him more than the devices and social media and all that. Of course he has a phone in his room he can use. I can definitely give you both the direct number to his room before you leave. He will have a very nice roommate. It's a young boy close to his own age who is here for occupational therapy and a little speech therapy due to an accident. His name is Jamal and he's seventeen. "

Lewis whispered," So I can't leave? "

Lynn said ," You can when you are ready and strong enough to go back home. But let's try not to rush things. " She turned back to Richard. " Richard. And , Nigel. I also think you all should consider participating with Lewis in family support therapy. The entire immediate family actually since he will definitely need the support and love of you all. Perhaps even with his mother if she can make it? I believe Nigel told the social worker she has returned to the area ? At least once a week. "

Richard responded," Of course we will. "

Nigel agreed mightily," Definitely. We will do anything to have him well again. He's our son after all. "

" Excellent," Lynn said with a smile. " Now let's go get you checked in and I'll show you all Lewis' room while he is with us. Don't look so worried, all of you , it won't be nearly as long as you think. I sense a tremendous strength in our young Lewis here. "