I Will Walk

"There was a blizzard that night," Mrs. Gao said. "Anyone would've struggled to drive in that weather, not to mention a seventeen-year-old boy who just got his license two weeks ago."

Lawrence's hands balled into fists.

"Lawrence," said Mrs. Gao, placing a hand on his shoulder. "I believe that one's body cannot truly heal unless one's mind is healed. To heal your mind, you must understand that you were not the one responsible for Annie's death."

Annie. Lawrence saw her dark hair, her bright eyes, and that beautiful wide smile. Unexpected tears sprang to his eyes, making him blink several times.

There was a knock at the door. Mrs. Gao rose and answered it, speaking briefly before returning to Lawrence's side.

"Your physical therapist is here," said Mrs. Gao, hesitating. "I've heard that you haven't been...cooperating with your therapist. I just want to remind you that if you do not begin your rehab soon, you may lose all function in your legs."

Lawrence continued to stare at an imaginary spot on the wall. Mrs. Gao sighed and patted him on the arm before exiting the room. A moment later, Dr. Thompson entered.

Dr. Thompson, contrary to the norm, sat in silence. After what seemed like an eternity, he spoke.

"What did you like most about her?"

Lawrence blinked. Dr. Thompson never spoke to him about Annie. It was always muscles this, muscles that.

"Well?"

"...her smile," Lawrence whispered.

"I can see why," said Dr. Thompson.

Lawrence turned to see Dr. Thompson holding a picture of Annie in his hands. A lump formed in Lawrence's throat and he looked away.

"I wonder what she liked most about you," said Dr. Thompson.

Lawrence was silent.

"I'm no psychic, but I am certain that Annie wouldn't like to see you lying in a bed feeling sorry for yourself while your legs die on you."

"What do you want from me?" Lawrence snapped. 

"I want Annie to be happy," said Dr. Lawrence. 

Something in Lawrence shattered. "She'll never be happy!" he shouted, voice breaking. "I lied! I was drinking at a party that night! I'm the one who killed her!"

Dr. Thompson was still. Then he rose, face black with rage and hand ready to strike. Lawrence closed his eyes. This is what I deserve.

But the blow never came.

"The thing my daughter liked about you most was your determination," said Dr. Thompson, voice wavering.

Daughter?

Lawrence watched, frozen, as Dr. Thompson tucked the picture into a pocket and wiped at his eyes. Before he exited, he turned back to Lawrence.

"Annie would want you to walk again. Show me the determination that impressed my daughter."

The door closed.

What would make Annie happy? Lawrence looked up at the sky. If I could say I loved her, I should know the answer better than anyone.

With that, Lawrence tightened his jaw and grabbed the edge of the bed with all his might, swiveling until his feet rested on the ground.

I will walk.