Second Chances

by Aaron Brinker

  Chaun sighed as he lowered his gaze to the floor between them. His expression darkened. “We were fighting when the accident happened. You know how I hardly ever stuck up for myself during the relationship?” Jake nodded. “Well, I let her have it that night. I didn’t hit her, but the look on her face the seconds before the accident happened…” He looked back at Jake. His brow raised. “I may as well have. I was ruthless with my choice of words that night.” His right hand balled into a fist, and he enclosed it with his left. “Hell, I wasn’t even thinking of what I was saying.”

  Jake’s hand stopped messing with the chair arm. He looked up and sat forward slightly. “What did you say to her?”

  Chaun’s eyes glazed over with a distant stare. “To sum it up I told her she was making my life a living hell, and that I was going to file for divorce. I was so sick of the mistreatment and feeling like I was not important to her.”

  Jake’s voice rose and sounded almost defensive. “I know she never treated you well, but no one would deserve that. She was eight months pregnant with your baby.” Jake’s face started to turn red. “So your last memory of her is practically seeing her heart breaking?”

  Chaun silently nodded. “I had said it out of anger, but it’s a lesson I will carry until my dying day.” Chaun looked down at the floor. “From now on, my words will be chosen carefully before I say them. I don’t want to hurt anyone the way I hurt Kat that night. Like I told you, the guilt is overwhelming at times.” He returned his gaze back to Jake. His eyes were stern, and his face began to redden. Chaun’s voice began to rise in decibel to match Jake’s. “I loved her, even though I wasn’t happy. I was so sick of her being so demanding of me all the time. She couldn’t even ask me if she wanted something. You saw that before we left that night.”

  Jake’s tone calmed. “What are you talking about?”

  Chaun’s tone didn’t lower completely. “She told me to go get her coat and start the car. It wasn’t, ‘Chaun can you please get my coat for me and start the car?’ No, it was, ‘Chaun, get my coat and go start the car.’ I wasn’t even able to finish my conversation. She rudely interrupted the conversation to demand what she wanted.”

  Jake nodded as he looked slightly to his left. “I remember hearing her say that.”

  “For the most part, our entire relationship was like that. She would demand, and I would do it. I hardly stuck up for myself.” He looked down at the cast on his foot, “Leave it to me to stick up for myself at the worst possible time.”

  Jake shook his head. “Chaun, there was no way for you to know what the outcome of that trip was going to be. That’s why they call it an accident. Do you think everyday people go out knowing if they’re going to wreck? The only exceptions are daredevils, stuntmen, and demolition derby contestants.”

  Chaun smirked, “Yeah, that’s true. If I had any idea how events were to unfold, I would have at least sat in the car a couple more minutes before backing out of the driveway.”

  “I know you would have.” Jake stood, reached out, and grabbed Chaun’s shoulder. “I’m here for you if you need me. I might not be able to show up in person, but all you have to do is call.”

  Chaun nodded, and his tone lowered. “Have you been by to see mom and dad yet?”

  Jake shook his head. He grinned. “No, and if I know mom and dad, they will kick my ass if I don’t. I’ll, at least, give them a call on my way home. I’m going to head out for now. You get better bub, and I’ll come by and see you after you get home.”

  Chaun nodded and smiled. “I will. Drive safe.” Jake leaned over and hugged Chaun again.

  “Will do” As Jake walked out of the room he said, “Take care.”

  *

  The evening had been quiet. Dave had cooked dinner for Michelle and himself. They fed and spent time with Sam. Time passed like it usually had since they brought Sam home. Their routine never changed much. As usual, they took Sam upstairs to lay her down for the night. Dave gently placed her in her crib and turned on the mobile above her crib. It played a lullaby as it quietly moved through its revolutions. Dave and Michelle never had a problem with Sam. On the rarity that she started fussing it was usually only for a few minutes. She slept through most of the night, only typically waking once or twice. Within a few moments, she was sleeping peacefully.

  After Sam had gone to sleep, they went about their regular routine: changing into their pajamas, brushing teeth, and taking meds. They both stayed up for a little while reading before going to sleep. About an hour and a half later, after both had just gone to sleep, a voice could be heard from the baby monitor. “Michelle, wake up. Michelle.” The intensity of the voice rose. “Michelle. Michelle!”

  Michelle raised her head from her pillow still half asleep, “What do you want?”

  Dave mumbled, “I didn’t say anything.”

  Michelle’s head sank back into her pillow, “I must have been dreaming.” The next second, at the sound of a door slamming in the house, both sat straight up in bed. “What was that?”

  “I don’t know. It almost sounded like a door slamming.” Then the sound repeated. They looked at each other. “It sounded like it came from…” The panic of realization was immeasurable. Their faces were agape with a wide-eyed expression of mirrored terror. Both said at the same instant. “Sam’s room.” They scrambled out of bed and ran to the nursery. When they arrived, they realized that Sam was not breathing. Michelle ran to call 911. Dave picked up Sam and began rescue breathing. He noticed the room had gotten icy and the air thick and heavy.

  Dave continued the rescue breathing until the paramedics arrived. They took Sam and Michelle in the ambulance, as Dave followed in the Navigator. The paramedics got Sam breathing again before they reached the hospital.

  The Dr. began running tests to see what had caused her to stop breathing. As the Dr. walked out of the room, Dave stood and began to pace. His tone was a mixing pot of emotions. Some of which Michelle sensed, due to her feeling the same, worry, terror, uncertainty, shock, and confusion. “That was really weird. Did you ask me what I wanted before the doors started slamming?”

  “Yeah, I thought you had been calling my name.”

  “No, I was sound asleep until you rolled over and started asking me questions. He sat back down and looked at Michelle. His eyes were wide, mouth slightly open. I think whoever was in the car with us on the way home from Ft. Wayne has become a guardian angel for Sam. I think that’s who started slamming the door to her room.”

  Michelle’s mouth dropped open, and her face lengthened with revelation. “I believe you 're right. We would have never known until it was too late.” She hugged Dave. Her hug was like a vice.

  Dave wrapped his arms around her, looked down, and softened his voice. “No, we wouldn’t have. Luckily someone is watching over Sam. I’m not sure if Angel is the right word, but it is definitely a guardian something. I don’t think we should tell Chaun about this just yet. At least not until he’s home from the hospital. It would just cause him to worry and want to rush coming home.”

  Her grip finally eased, she released Dave, leaned back, and made eye contact. “I think you’re right. He tends to worry a lot, especially when it involves family.”

  Dave nodded and placed his hand on hers. “Hopefully this is just a one-time incident.”

  A little while later the Dr. returned to the room. Dave and Michelle stood. Both wide-eyed with hopeful curiosity. “Well, it seems she is perfectly fine. I think, this may have just been a freak occurrence.”

  Dave’s shoulders relaxed as he let out a deep sigh. “So, she’s okay?”

  The Dr. smiled, “I don’t see anything wrong with the test results. She is healthy, and all her numbers are fine.”

  Dave said, “Thank you, Dr.”

  “You’re welcome. The nurse will be in shortly to have you sign the release paperwork.” Dave nodded to let the Dr. know he understood.

  11

  Chaun woke to the sound of footsteps entering his room.
When he opened his eyes, he saw Dr. Smith standing next to his bed. “Chaun?”

  Chaun pushed himself up higher on the bed. “Good morning Dr. Smith. What’s up?”

  “Not much, just came in to tell you the good news.”

  He sighed, expecting it would be more x rays, blood work, or therapy. “And what news might that be?”

  The Doctor smiled, “Since you’ve done well over the last week with bearing weight on your leg, I’ve decided that you are ready to head home.”

  Chaun’s face furrowed slightly. “You’re not messing with me are you?”

  Dr. Smith laughed. “Not this time. You should be able to leave as soon as you sign your paperwork and your parents come to pick you up.”

  Chaun’s entire face lifted and lit up with excitement. “Thank you so much, Dr. Smith. Are there any restrictions?”

  The Doctor shook his head. “Not really. I’ve called and talked to your parents, and they’ve bought a wheelchair for you to use for the next couple weeks. I want you to take it easy and don’t overdo it.” Chaun nodded to let the Dr. know he was listening. “Definitely work on building strength in that leg, but if it gets to the point, it hurts more than stiffness or soreness stop.”

  Letting the Doctor’s words sink in, Chaun nodded once more. “Gotcha, take it easy and don’t overdo it. I won’t have a problem with that. How soon before I get the other cast off?”

  “It shouldn’t be too much longer. We had to put a few pins in your bones due to where the breaks in your ankle were located. Your family Dr. can keep an eye on it. You should be able to remove it in a couple weeks or so. My guess would be at the outside two months as long as you take it easy and don’t go trying to run any marathons or anything.” He started laughing.

  Chaun smirked. “Thanks, Doc.”

  He smiled, “Not a problem. Any other questions?”

  Chaun shook his head. “Nope, I’m good. Thanks again for everything.”

  “You’re welcome.” Dr. Smith turned and left the room.

  Denise entered the room a few minutes after the Dr. had finished speaking with Chaun. She was all smiles. She handed him a handful of papers. “Here are your release papers. All they need is your signature.”

  Chaun took the papers and pen. “Thank you.”

  Denise nodded, “You’re welcome. I also called your parents to tell them the news. Your mom and Sam are on their way to pick you up.”

  He signed the papers and returned them to Denise. “I really can’t wait to be home.”

  She gave the papers a quick look through to make sure everything was in order. She nodded, looked into Chaun’s eyes, and smiled. “I’ll bet. Most people take for granted being able to get up and move around, let alone go anywhere.”

  Chaun nodded then looked down. “That’s true. I am going to miss having someone other than my parents to talk to.” He returned his gaze to Denise. His face was sad.

  “You’ll do fine. I’m sure you have people to call if you need to.”

  Chaun maintained eye contact while shaking his head. “Actually, I don’t, most of the friends we hung out with were Kats. My busy work schedule kept me from having too much of a personal life.”

  “Do you think your work schedule was the cause of how she treated you?”

  “Treated me?” His brow subtly furrowed as he contemplated the answer. “No…added to the ill treatment, yes.”

  Denise looked down, “I didn’t mean to offend you.”

  Chaun looked at her apologetically, “I wasn’t offended. You just made me realize one of my shortcomings. All I can do is learn from it.”

  Her face lifted. She placed her hand on his shoulder. “Do you need any help packing up?”

  “If you’re not too busy. Granted, there isn’t much to pack up.” Chaun gave a slight laugh.

  “That reminds me, your mom wanted me to let you know, she is bringing clothes for you to change into.” Chaun started laughing and before too long was in stitches. “What’s so funny?”

  Chaun calmed himself just enough to speak audibly. “So…am I to gather the staff prefers me not to leave in the nude?”

  Denise started laughing, “That would be a sight. I can almost guarantee they won’t prefer you leaving in the nude.” Her laugh slowly subsided. “I’ll help you get everything ready to go. I’m going to go and get this paperwork squared away, and then I’ll be right back.

  *

  An hour later Michelle walked into Chaun’s hospital room pushing Sam in a stroller. “Is that a car seat that turns into a stroller?” Chaun’s mouth hung open.

  Michelle smiled and nodded, “Yeah, I really wish they would have had these when you were her age. It would have made our lives a lot easier. How are you feeling?” She walked over and gave him a hug.

  “Really good. Do you have my clothes?”

  She pulled a pair of jeans, socks, a black t-shirt, boxer briefs, and tennis shoes from a bag. “Here you go. That’s what took me so long to get here. I had to stop by and pick these up for you.”

  “Thanks, Mom. Can you give me a few minutes while I change? I’ll holler if I need anything.” Michelle nodded her head and turned to leave the room. “Thanks again, Mom.” She closed the door behind her. Chaun found it surprisingly difficult to change. After putting the t-shirt on and the boxer briefs, he called his mom in to help him with the jeans.

  After he had dressed, Denise brought in a wheelchair to escort him to the doors. His mom pushed the stroller alongside the wheelchair while they were on their way down to the first floor. Chaun held Sam’s hand most of the way between his thumb and forefinger. As they got onto the elevator, Denise asked Michelle, “How’s Mr. Hutchins?”

  She smiled and rolled her eyes jokingly. “He’s good, been driving me nuts though the last few weeks.”

  Denise looked concerned, “Why’s that?”

  “He has been anxiously awaiting Chaun’s release. They were always very close while Chaun was growing up. At times they were inseparable. Dave was one of Chaun’s closest friends growing up. Most of that was due to moving around so much with Dave being in the Army.”

  Denise raised her head slightly. “I see. Does Chaun have anyone outside of the family to talk to if he gets bored?”

  “He has a couple people, but most of his friends work during the week.” Unbeknownst to Chaun Michelle handed Denise a piece of paper containing her phone number and e-mail address. The elevator toned, and the metal door pulled back to reveal the floor they needed. They stepped off and walked towards the door. Michelle walked outside to pull the car up to the doors.

  Denise said, “You know I tend to like a lot of my patients. No more than on a professional level of course. You I’m going to miss. I know some of the other girls are as well. Most of the people we deal with on a daily basis give us a little bit of hope. You, on the other hand, have impacted our lives. I hope you find peace and know that you deserve it.” She placed her hand on his shoulder.

  He put his hand on top of hers, “Thanks, Denise.”

  Michelle pulled the car up in front of the doors. As she got out and started walking through the parting doors, Denise said to Chaun. “I guess this is good-bye.”

  “For now at least. I’d say that goodbyes aren’t forever, but I know better. I hope we meet again someday. You helped me through a lot in the last few weeks. My day always seemed brighter on days you were working.” His expression was somber with thoughtful reflection. His voice was soft.

  Denise blushed slightly. Michelle came in, and they pushed Sam and Chaun towards the doors to get them both in the car. As Michelle was getting Sam placed in the car, Denise was helping Chaun into the passenger seat. “Remember what the Dr. said, Take it easy and don’t overdo it.”

  He smiled reflectively, “I will. You take care of yourself.”

  She nodded and then closed the door. Michelle waved to Denise as she started easing the car forward.

  12

  It was not until they were South of Ft. Wayne
that Michelle finally began speaking. Chaun spent most of that time staring off into space and enjoyed seeing something outside of hospital walls. “I have to admit, your father is excited to have you coming home.”

  With a light-hearted tone, he said, “Him? I’ve been going nuts staring at those hospital walls.” Chaun looked at Michelle and grinned. He turned and looked out of his window again. He watched as they passed barren branches. He began to wish that he woke up a month later. Chaun longed for spring. He figured the chance to see new life would bury his guilt and the cold feelings of what happened the night of the accident. His mind drifted.

  He sat in a coffee shop sipping his cup of coffee and studying for class. A woman at the table next to him kept looking his direction. Chaun looked up and smiled at the woman. She returned his smile. He looked back down and began to study again. The woman got up and walked over without his noticing. While he read, he noticed the bottom hem of shorts and tan legs just beyond the table’s edge. He raised his head to find that the young lady had walked over to his table. She was in her early twenties. “Is this seat taken?”

  Chaun gestured to the open seat across from him, “Not at all.”

  She smiled and sat down. “I’m Katrina.”

  Chaun smiled and wondered if she was a hallucination. No one that beautiful had ever approached him. “Nice to meet you, Katrina, I’m Chaun.”

  “I’ve always liked the name Chaun. S-E-A-N?” She looked down at his textbook. “What are you studying?”

  “No. C-H-A-U-N. The Scottsboro trials that took place in the 1930’s.” Her face portrayed cluelessness. “It was a trial where nine African-American teenagers were wrongfully accused and tried for the rape of two white women.”

  She looked back up at him. Her face looked as if she was questioning his sanity. “Are you reading up on this for fun or for class?”

  He smiled and was barely able to keep from laughing. He dog-eared the page and closed the book. “Class, even though it is an interesting subject. Not the rape part of it, but the process afterward and the story. I am a history major.”