Chapter 5
Two days later, Diego's fever broke, and he was prepared for his bumpy ride home. He was still to weak to sit up on his own, so they made sure he was securely held still with long strips of strong cloth around his waist, chest, legs, and feet.
Hernandez sent Felipe to get Mendoza and a few lancers. "They can help carry the litter down to the wagon." He explained when he saw the questioning look on the teens face.
Victoria and Alejandro stayed with Diego. A few minutes later, the litter was ready and with the lancers help, Diego was carefully carried down to the wagon. Victoria climbed up into the back of the wagon and kept Diego company. Felipe took the reins and Hernandez sat on the other side of Diego.
"Let's take it slow Felipe." The doctor called up to the teen. Alejandro rode his horse close by; keeping an eye open for any trouble.
The trip to the De La Vega hacienda took a while, they wanted to make sure Diego wasn't jostled around too much. He was carefully carried inside and put into his own bed.
"Diego." Hernandez tried to wake Diego as he checked his temperature and vitals.
"Hmmm," Diego slowly groaned and turned his head to look at the doctor.
"You're home, do you have much pain?" Hernandez asked with concern.
"My head hurts a little," Diego paused to swallow the dry lump in his throat and continued, "and my shoulder is burning slightly." His eyes searched for Victoria as he spoke.
"I have something to help with the pain, and your temperature is normal, but it could spike again. Please rest, and can I give you some advice?" The doctor asked with a calming smile.
Diego could only nod his head slowly before sleep over powered his tired body. Hernandez shook his head and chucked to himself.
"How is he doctor?" Alejandro asked for the doorway of Diego's bedroom.
"He needs to rest for the next few weeks. His fever is gone, but we still need to keep a close eye on his wound. It may become infected if it's not well cared for." Hernandez replied with a careful smile. "I know how he can be when he starts to feel better. He pushes his limits and only makes his injury worse." The doctor realized he had said something he shouldn't have when he noticed the confused expression on Alejandro's worried face.
"What do you mean doctor? Has my son been shot before?" Alejandro grew even more worried and eyed his still son.
"No, but do you remember when he fell off of his horse?" Hernandez quickly recalled the time when Diego went after his father after a disagreement.
"Yes, I recall that day. He was in bed for several days with a headache and dizziness. He tried to do too much before he was strong enough, and fell ill with a stomach bug." Alejandro recalled.
"He does tend to rush his recoveries, and this time we need to make sure he rests enough, or he might lose some movement in his left arm if the wound doesn't heal properly." Hernandez warned Alejandro.
"We will make sure he gets enough rest. I have a plan even the Fox himself couldn't fool." Alejandro smiled inwardly, and looked at Diego carefully.
"I hope your plan works. I need to get back to the pueblo. That poor farmers funeral is tomorrow, and his family isn't dealing with his death well." Hernandez said sadly. His heart ached for that now fatherless family.
"I want to help them with supplies and food until they get back on their feet." Alejandro volunteered his help.
"That would be most appreciated Alejandro. I will let them know when I get back to the pueblo." The good doctor thanked Diego's father for his kindness.
"I will see you tomorrow after the funeral. I need to put fresh bandage's on Diego's wound and make sure he has enough pain medicine to last the rest of the week." The doctor walked to the front door and started to leave.
"Thankyou for helping my Son. You are a true blessing." Alejandro waved at the doctor and closed the door slowly. Making sure Hernandez was safely on his way before going back to Diego's room.
He stopped in the doorway when he noticed Victoria by his son's bedside. Diego was awake and talking to her about something private. Alejandro decided it was best to leave them alone, and went to his own bedroom to rest.