Jax’s heart sank. “I’m sorry, but I really can’t stay. They need me in the office today. I’ll be back with Caleb later, if you’re feeling up to it.”

Gretchen was writing again already. She handed Jax the pad.

I’m living this day all over again, and I want it to stop.

She read the words slowly and twice. How was that possible? “Dr. Melendez said the side effects of the coma and your injuries could make you feel disoriented. I’m sure that’s it. You’re getting better and stronger by the minute. I’m sure it’ll wear off soon. I’ll get the pad and some pens, and I’ll even stop and get some more flowers.” Jax looked around the room at the many bouquets already lining the walls. “Maybe something different.”

“Cactus.”

Jax turned back to Gretchen’s voice and started laughing, but that laughter died when she noticed how hard Gretchen was now crying. She panicked. “I’ll get you a cactus. I promise.”

Gretchen pressed her hand to her mouth and shook her head. She pointed to the door and said, “Doctor.”

Jax peered at the empty doorway over her shoulder. “You want me to get the doctor?”

“I’m happy I heard some laughter coming from here,” Dr. Melendez said as she entered the room. “And some tears. Is everything okay?”

Gretchen wiped her face and nodded.

Dr. Melendez looked between them. “Good morning, Jax.”

“Good morning, Doc.”

“Today will be a busy, tiring, and eventful day for Gretchen.” Jax perked up. Dr. Melendez directed her next words to Gretchen. “I’m pleased with your progress in the last thirty-six hours. You’re out of the ICU, following conversations, and your personality appears to be consistent with how everyone knows you.”

Jax wanted to mention Gretchen’s odd notes but decided to address the bigger concerns at the moment. “But she doesn’t remember a thing.”

Amanda rushed into the room with a coffee and a foil-wrapped sandwich in hand. “Did I miss anything?”

“No, I was just about to list today’s itinerary. First, I’d like to get Gretchen up and moving,” Dr. Melendez said, turning back to Gretchen. “Any little bit. I’d like to see if there’s been any more physical damage, and I’d also like to avoid any muscle atrophy.”

“I’m fine,” Gretchen said in a harsh whisper. She pulled back the covers and started to slide out of the bed. Her grip on the bed’s railing slipped and Dr. Melendez rushed to her rescue.

“Whoa, now.” Dr. Melendez lifted Gretchen’s leg back up onto the bed. “Let’s wait for a nurse and the physical therapist. They’ll get here in about an hour.”