I took out my long-forgotten professional books and started a study plan.
Time flew by as I immersed myself in my work, thoroughly enjoying it.
I didn't even notice when Chandler returned.
"Yasmine?"
I looked up, realizing he was in the room.
"You're back?"
I rubbed my eyes. After not reading for so long, they felt uncomfortable from such engrossed studying.
"Why didn't you answer the phone?"
His words contained a hint of questioning and suppressed anger.
I didn't understand. I just didn't answer the phone. He used to ignore my calls and messages constantly.
"I was busy, I guess I didn't hear it."
This was the excuse he had given me countless times, now returned unchanged.
I propped myself up with one leg, finding my phone buried under books - several missed calls.
Only then did he seem to notice something amiss.
"Your leg..."
I glanced at my right leg with the steel plate, not wanting to elaborate.
"I've already finished the surgery. It's not a problem."
A trace of guilt flashed across Chandler's face, and he awkwardly stepped forward to help me.
I had already grabbed the cane from the table, avoiding his hand as I headed for the door.