Gretchen felt compelled to clarify. “Caleb is wonderful, but he’s always making noise.”

“How has he adjusted to all this?”

“He’s been great,” Jax said. She twirled her keyring around her finger. “He’s only had two meltdowns, which is a personal best for him. He understands just enough to not add stress to Gretchen’s situation.”

“That’s very good to hear.” Dr. Melendez typed for a minute before regarding Gretchen again. “Have you been taking your seizure medication?”

She gave a thumbs-up. “Every morning with breakfast like clockwork.”

“I hate to ask, but have you remembered anything new since the last time we spoke?”

Gretchen shook her head. She was afraid to speak, knowing how quickly she could get angry when talking about her lost memories.

“Do you think she will?” Jax said.

Dr. Melendez sat back in her chair. The leather made no noise. “There’s no way of knowing. Ideally, she would’ve regained some by now since it’s been a month and her brain is healing well, but sometimes you do, sometimes you don’t.”

Gretchen already knew the truth of her situation, and she had heard enough at this point. She was ready for a subject change. “When can I go back to work?”

“Of course,” Jax said.

“What?” she said to Jax. “Those bills and that kid you mentioned earlier still aren’t cheap. My medical leave will be up soon, and I looked into disability, but it’s a joke.” She looked back to Dr. Melendez. “I just need to know if I’ll be back at work before any assistance will kick in.”

Dr. Melendez steepled her fingers and looked between them. “Your progress is great, and I think you’re ready for a few changes. First, you don’t need around-the-clock care, but I don’t want you alone overnight just yet. Not just because you’re still adjusting, but because you’re caring for a child.”

Gretchen nodded eagerly, already feeling more positive. “Okay, that makes sense.”

“No driving until your six-month mark, I’m firm on that. Give yourself one more week before you return to work. Amnesia is tough to deal with, and while you may be growing comfortable with your home life, work will be a new challenge for you. Take one more week, and then I’ll clear you for part-time. Can you agree to that?”

Gretchen knew her eyes were wide with excitement. “I can.”

“Great. If you have any questions or concerns, give me a call. Otherwise, Gretchen, you’re doing great. You should be very happy with your progress.”

“I am. Thank you for everything.” She stood and shook Dr. Melendez’s hand firmly.

“I want to see you back in four weeks. You can schedule that with the receptionist on the way out. Take care.”

Gretchen had a new spring in her step as she left the office. Normalcy was one week away. When she got to the elevator, she noticed Jax had stopped about fifteen feet away and seemed annoyed.

“Shit,” Jax said, searching the pockets of her jacket and jeans. “I left my keys in her office.”