After the call ended, Savannah stood in the hallway, staring at the closed door. The promise echoed in her head. Do not enter. Do not touch. Do not let anyone in.
Then she imagined a helpless man alone, unable to move, unable to call for help, waiting in soiled sheets and discomfort.
Her heart made the decision before her mind did.
She opened the door.
A sharp smell of unclean linen and antiseptic hit her first. The dim lamp revealed Richard lying in bed, eyes wide, breathing shallowly. His blanket was tangled. His skin was pale and clammy. He looked terrified.
Savannah rushed to his side. “Oh my God. Mr. Keller. I am here.”
His eyes locked onto hers, pleading.
She swallowed hard. “I know I promised not to come in. But no one deserves to be left like this.”
She gathered fresh towels, warm water, and clean clothes. Her hands trembled as she worked, but she moved gently, speaking softly so he would not feel ashamed.
“You are safe,” she whispered. “I will take care of you.”
When she reached to remove his shirt so she could clean his back, her fingers froze.