Page 22 of Platinum Pressure

“What do you mean?” I tried to act like I didn’t know what she meant.

“Part of my job is to observe my patients. I am trained to pick up on any changes—both mentally and physically. As he gave you a breakdown of the recovery, I could see the light dim from your eyes. Why?”

My shoulders lifted and fell in defeat. I contemplated whether to let her in or lie.

“I am a safe space, Platinum. Yes, I am here because of a payment, but I care genuinely. You don’t have to let me in, but I am here.”

I licked my lips. “It’s the same shit, for real. I don’t want to sound like a broken record, you know?”

She nodded. “I get you, but I don’t care how many times something bothers you. You can repeat yourself as many times as you need to.”

“It’s just the timeline. A month has passed me by already, and the real recovery won’t even start for at least another week or two. I’m . . . I’m defeated. I thought this shit would be easier, but I can’t even wash my ass without help to and from the bathroom. Grown-ass man sitting on a shower seat makes me feel emasculated. I feel . . . I don’t know how to describe it other than shit. Man . . .”

“I know you want to get out on the field as soon as possible, and your current reality makes your desire feel like an unachievable task, but I promise there is no greater timing than God’s. Don’t rush. Enjoy the rest. Enjoy the journey as you relearn your body and ways to become stronger. No one is saying you must quit, retire, or give up the sport you love, especially the coaches who check on your progress every day. All we’re saying is to be gentle to your body as you heal.”

Her tone was the perfect remedy to push away the darkness. I appreciated the fact she continued to reassure me through my rollercoaster of emotions.

I nodded. “Okay.”

“Don’t count yourself out just yet, Platinum. Keep faith. I’m going to meet you in the middle as long as you do the same.”

“I’ll do my best. I’m too tired to do anything else for real. I’m exhausted.”

Meadow chuckled. “Understood. Get you some rest. Call or text me if you need anything. I’ll be in the poolroom.”

“A’ight. Thank you for everything, Meadow.”

“It’s really my pleasure.”

She gave my pillows one more fluff, checked to make sure I had water, my medication, and my phone plugged in before she made her way down the hall. Before she got too far, she turned on her heels and made her way back to me.

“I almost forgot. Do not get up in the middle of the night, or any time really, to go to the bathroom on your own. I don’t care what time it is. I will come and help you. I do not want you putting too much pressure on your leg. Understood?”

“Yeah, yeah.”

“I’m serious.”

“Yes, ma’am. I got you.”

“Great. Enjoy your rest.”

“I’ll try my best.”

Once again, her body retreated down the hall. The day had worn me out because sleep wrapped around me faster than I anticipated.

Three weeks later

With my toothbrush in one hand and my phone in the other, I caught up in the family chat as I prepared for the morning shift with Platinum. He’d been in a funk since he came home after the surgery. The first checkup had set us back a week. The surgeon noted more swelling and inflammation than there should have been, so he prescribed more meds and bedrest. The second week’s checkup had gone a lot smoother with the right amount of healing. The doctor cleared Platinum for light walking and exercises. After this week’s checkup, he took the stitches out and approved him for the strength building, which we would start today. He would need another week on crutches before he could ditch them for just the brace, though.

La Familia

Mommy:

I miss my girls. When can we have a family day? Daddy will pay.

Daddy:

I will?