PART TWO

"I can't believe this is happening" Lita said as she rode back to the hotel with Matt and Jeff in the rental car. She spoke the words so softly, she didn't think Matt had heard her.

"Hey now, you heard the Doctor" he said, gently squeezing her hand. "You just need to rest and take it easy for a week." Matt was riding in the back seat with Lita while Jeff drove them towards the hotel. "Before you know it, you'll be back to your old self in no time"

"That's right, sweetie", Jeff said, glancing at Lita in the rear view mirror, then locking eyes with Matt. "We need you back 100. Team Extreme is a three-man team. Well, two guys and a gorgeous redhead anyway."

Lita smiled at Jeff's comment. He was happy to see her smile again.

Matt and Jeff had talked to Dr. Patton privately back at the hospital while Dr. Patton's aids prepared Lita's release papers. He had agreed to send her home to rest provided someone was with her to serve as caretaker. Lita's recovery now relied on how much rest she got, and he surmised she wouldn't be content stuck in the hospital. Both young men had assured him that taking her home to rest would not be a problem. A phone call to Vince secured them the time off they needed to be with Lita. Jeff had to promise Vince though that one of them would be available to do Smackdown, should the need arise. Vince had told him not to worry and to take good care of Lita. He
would call should he need them.

Jeff turned into the hotel parking lot, found a spot up front, and shut the engine off. Jumping out of the car, he opened Lita's door.

"Wait here, I'll go see if they have a wheelchair," he said, turning to head inside.

"No way" Lita replied. "Jeff, I'm blind, not lame. I can make it if you guys lead the way."

"You sure?" Matt asked.

"Yes. I will not let this beat me. I am perfectly capable of walking into a hotel". Lita said, pulling herself up out of the backseat. She winced in pain as her ribs were jostled in the movement. Matt's arms were around her waist in a flash.

"You are amazing," he said simply. He knew better than to try to carry her weight any more than she would let him. Lita was the most determined woman he had ever met.

"Thanks" Lita hesitantly took a step away from the car. Her ribs ached, but she figured that was the least of her worries right now.

"Go ahead with her Matt" Jeff said. I'll get our bags and be right up. Jeff headed around the back of the car.

How strange it was to think about each step forward. Not knowing what obstacles would be in the way. She felt helpless and angry with herself at the same time. But she was determined to put on a positive front for Matt and Jeff. She wouldn't show weakness. She
had to appear strong, even though she was far from it. But with Matt's arm securely around her waist, and his verbal coaching, Lita made her way into the hotel and up to her room.

to be continued................