Chapter 39: One by One
The hospital waiting area buzzed softly with vending machines and muffled announcements, but the gym members sat in a respectful silence, watching the door Jake had disappeared behind.
When Jake finally stepped out, his eyes were red, but he smiled faintly.
Alex was the first to rise and walk over. Without a word, he placed a firm hand on Jake's shoulder.
"You don't need to worry about the gym. Take your time here… we've got it covered."
Jake opened his mouth to respond, but Alex beat him to it.
"And if anything's eating you inside," Alex said gently, "tell me, alright? I may not be the softest guy around… but I listen."
Jake laughed weakly, nodding as they briefly hugged.
A few of the other gym members stood and clapped Jake lightly on the back or gave a word of encouragement.
"Hang in there, bro."
"You've got us behind you."
"He'll be proud of the man you've become."
One by one, they left, their presence like a quiet show of solidarity. Alex gave Jake a final nod before turning to leave with them.
"Call me when you're ready," he said.
Then it was just Alya and Lisa left standing there.
Alya stepped forward slightly, her lips parting to speak—but she paused when she saw Lisa already walking toward Jake.
Lisa's approach was quiet, familiar.
Jake looked up and met her eyes.
"Hey," she said softly, stopping just in front of him. "I'm glad we're… not awkward anymore."
Jake blinked, then laughed through his nose.
"Yeah," he said. "It's been a long time since it felt this easy."
Lisa grinned. "I meant what I said earlier. Let us hold you too, Jake. You don't have to walk everything alone."
They exchanged a look—one filled with shared pain, history, and growth.
From a few steps back, Alya watched quietly. Her fingers fidgeted at her side. She had come hoping to lift Jake's spirits, maybe even share a moment—but seeing Lisa with him now, something in her heart tugged.
She smiled softly anyway, then turned away.
Jake didn't notice. His eyes were still on Lisa, their laughter soft against the sterile hospital lights.
Outside, the evening wind began to pick up.