I released Charles’ hand and got out of the way while John made his preparations. He unhooked the two drips and helped Charles swivel around and hang his feet off the bed before sticking the crutches under Charles’ arms, and saying, “Okay, this will be the same drill as before, but this time I want you to actually get through the door and out into the corridor before we turn around.”
Charles groaned in pain when he stood up, and John admonished him, “Hey, man, take it easy and don’t put any more weight on that leg than you can stand. Okay?”
With John’s help, Charles shuffled his way to the door, through it, and out of sight for a moment before returning. He was trembling and sweating, and his face was a mask of pain. John helped him back into the bed and reconnected the drips. Charles pu
