MILITARY BASE
Miguel sat on the edge of the hospital bed, his fingers drumming a steady rhythm on the side rail.
The sterile room felt like a prison, and the ever-so-calm doctor standing across from him with a clipboard in hand wasn’t helping.
“You’re in very good shape, Miguel,” the doctor began with a reassuring smile. “If everything continues as it has, I’m confident you can be discharged in a couple of days.”
Miguel’s frown deepened. “A couple of days? Again? I've heard that before,” he said, irritation in his voice. “Doc, I can’t stay here that long. I’m fine. Look at me—I can walk, I can eat. I can spar right now if you want proof.”
The doctor chuckled softly but didn’t back down. “I understand your frustration, Miguel, but it’s not just about how you feel right now. Recovery
