Epilogue
Three days after the events on the beach, Bruce was released from the hospital. Trudy met him in the waiting area. A raven-haired nurse’s aide pushed him in a wheelchair. He appeared embarrassed at having to ride. Hospital rules, the nurse told him when he signed the release papers.
Trudy ran up and wrapped her arms around him, making his face flush crimson.
“Trudy, it’s okay. I’m fine,” he said.
She stepped back and stood beaming at him with her arms crossed. “I’m so glad you’re all right.”
Bruce used both hands to push himself out the wheelchair. He wobbled for a moment, then, once his equilibrium returned, he walked toward the door. His habitual bouncy pace was slower than usual, not surprising given the injury to his leg.
Trudy walked with him to the parking lot. She bea
