The Payne father and son did not leave that evening and simply made do at the hospital.
They did not bring up their relationship with Zoe Bell proactively, and neither did William Hale, who had a painful night with her legs causing her to sleep poorly.
The following day, she woke up when the doctor came for rounds.
"Feeling uncomfortable?" Peter Lewis came in person.
"It's bearable." Zoe knew this was a necessary phase in the recovery of her wounds and always hated to worry others.
Peter removed the fixed brace, checked her wounds, and said, "The wound is healing well. Later, I'll have a nurse treat the area and apply a cast. Then William can carry you in a wheelchair to move around a bit."
"Staying cooped up in the room can also drive you insane."
"But don't put any pressure on the operated leg, and contact me immediately if you feel any discomfort."
"Thank you, Grandpa Lewis." William thanked him.
