Chapter 56
It was early evening when they heard the noise from upstairs, like a thud. The nurse had driven to Epsom to get some supplies as Frank, Maria, and Marcus drank tea in the room below.
“He’s awake?” asked Maria to no one in particular. Frank and Marcus were already standing up. When they reached the room, John was reaching from his bed as he tried to stretch for a mug that had fallen off his table and onto the floor.
“Hey,” said Maria. “How are you doing, John?” She instantly leaned over and picked up the mug with one hand and gently pushed back his arm. He slumped back onto the bed in relief and gave Maria a faint smile.
The others came in and gathered around the bed, pulling up chairs, Marcus nearest to him on the far side of the bed and Frank at the end.
“How are you feeli
