Part 4

The Day of the Surgery

The day of the surgery arrived. His parents, Richard and Linda Caldwell, came to the hospital with Mark. They walked into Ethan's room with calm, composed expressions, masking their internal turmoil. Ethan could see the worry in their eyes but appreciated their effort to stay strong for him.

"How are you feeling, son?" Richard asked, his voice steady.

"I've been better," Ethan admitted, managing a small smile. "But I'm ready for this. I need to try."

Linda squeezed his hand gently. "We're here for you, Ethan. We'll get through it with you."

Ethan nodded, grateful for their support. "Thanks, Mom. Dad."

Mark pulled up a chair next to Ethan's bed, his expression serious. "Are you sure about this, Ethan?"

Ethan took a deep breath. "Yes, Mark. I have to try. I can't just give up on my leg."

Mark nodded, though his concern was evident. "I understand, brother. Just get better."

Ethan hesitated for a moment before speaking again. "There's something else, Mark. Do you remember Ivy? I asked you to hire her as Henry's paralegal's assistant. Can you… look out for her for me," Ethan sighed.

Mark's eyes narrowed slightly. "Ivy, yeah? why?"

Ethan shrugged. "She's smart, dedicated, and I care about her. Please don't tell her about my surgery."

Mark's protective instincts kicked in. "Are you seeing her?"

Ethan sighed, "No, not now at least. Not in my condition."

Mark nodded, but his mind was already working. He decided to ask Jason, their trusted investigator, to look into Ivy discreetly.

Not long after, Ethan was wheeled into the operating room, his heart pounding with a mix of fear and determination. Dr. Lewis, the lead surgeon, offered a reassuring smile. "We'll take good care of you, Mr. Caldwell. This will take some time, but we'll do everything we can."

Ethan nodded, trying to steady his breathing. "Thank you, Dr. Lewis."

As the anesthesia took effect, Ethan's thoughts drifted to Ivy. He hoped she wouldn't worry too much, but he knew that was wishful thinking.

In the operating room, Dr. Lewis and his team worked meticulously for 4.5 hours, performing the complex procedure, placing external fixators, and making every effort to save Ethan's leg.

Outside, Ethan's parents and Mark waited anxiously, their composure slipping as the hours dragged on.

Suspicion and Determination

At the office, Ivy couldn't shake the feeling that something was wrong. Mark, Cheryl, Ethan's driver, and even Ethan's father were all conspicuously missing. All of Ethan's meetings had been postponed indefinitely.

Ivy texted Jack, hoping for some answers. "Jack, is everything okay with Ethan?"

To her surprise, there was no response. Jack was usually quick to reply, especially when it concerned Ethan.

By 3 PM, Ivy's anxiety had reached its peak. She couldn't concentrate on her work and decided she needed to find out what was happening. Grabbing her coat, she left the office and headed to the hospital.

When she arrived, she spotted Jack at a vending machine in the lobby. She hurried over, her heart pounding. "Jack, is something wrong with Ethan? Why didn't you respond to my text?"

Jack looked up; his expression serious but calm. "Ivy, Ethan is undergoing surgery. It's a complicated procedure, but Dr. Lewis is handling it. Everything is under control. You should go back to the office. I'll keep you updated."

Ivy felt a wave of relief mixed with frustration. "Why didn't anyone tell me? I was worried sick."

"Ethan didn't want you to worry," Jack explained gently. "He's determined to get through this, and he didn't want to distract you from your work and studies."

Before Ivy could respond, she noticed Mark observing them from afar. His gaze was intense, and she felt a sudden unease.

Protective Instincts

Mark watched Ivy and Jack's interaction from a distance, his protective instincts on high alert. Despite Ethan's success as a lawyer and his resilience, Mark still saw him as his little brother, the same brother he had almost lost to bone cancer years ago.

When Ethan was 16 years old, he had been diagnosed with bone cancer. The family had endured a harrowing battle, and the cancer had remained in remission for nearly 18 years before resurfacing six months ago. The memory of that time still haunted Mark, fueling his determination to protect Ethan at all costs.

Mark approached Jack after Ivy left. "Isn't that Ivy, Jack?"

"Yes," Jack replied. "Ethan didn't want her to know about the surgery. I think he cares about her deeply, but he doesn't want her to worry."

Mark's eyes narrowed. "I've asked Jason to look into her. I need to be sure she's not after Ethan's money or fame."

Jack sighed. "Mark, I get it. You're protective. But Ivy seems genuine. Ethan sees something in her."

Mark nodded, but his suspicions remained. "I just need to be sure. For Ethan's sake."

Post-Surgery Ordeal

Ethan was wheeled out of surgery, unconscious and fragile. Dr. Lewis briefed the family, his tone somber but professional. "The next 48 hours will be the hardest. We are making sure the pain management is at the most optimum level, but it won't eliminate the pain fully. Jack, I'll need you to help reposition Ethan every 3-4 hours to ensure blood flow and to prevent bedsores."

Linda couldn't help but cry. The memory of seeing Ethan in pain 18 years ago came back with a vengeance. Richard put a comforting arm around her, his own eyes glistening with unshed tears.

"Thank you, Dr. Lewis," Richard said, his voice thick with emotion. "We'll do everything we can to support him."

Dr. Lewis nodded. "I know you will. He's a fighter."

At 7pm, Mark was called into the office for an urgent case, had reluctantly left the hospital. As he walked through the firm, he noticed Ivy was still at her desk, focused on her work despite the late hour.

"Ivy, are you okay?" Mark asked, his voice gentle.

Ivy nodded, wiping her tears. "I'm just worried about Mr. Caldwell. I feel so helpless."

Mark studied her for a moment before speaking. "Ethan's a proud man. It's hard for him to let people see him vulnerable."

Ivy looked up; her eyes filled with determination. "I really care about Mr. Caldwell, Mr. Caldwell."

Leaving Ivy at her desk, Mark nodded and said, "Just give him time. He needs to heal, and he needs to come to terms with everything."

Back at the hospital, as evening turned to night, Ethan lay unconscious, his body wracked with pain even under the influence of heavy medication. Around 9 PM, he finally stirred awake. "Arrgh..." Ethan screamed, both in pain and frustration.

Jack rushed to his side, trying his best to reposition Ethan to give him a little relief. Linda, unable to bear the sight, called the nurse in tears. A mother's helplessness in seeing her child in pain was heart-wrenching.

The nurses came promptly, adding more doses of painkillers to his IV. Linda couldn't hold herself together and decided to sit outside his room. Richard joined her, and they hugged each other, seeking comfort.

Throughout the night, Ethan screamed in pain on and off. His agony pierced the hearts of everyone present. It was almost 7 AM when Ethan finally succumbed to exhaustion and fell asleep. Mark who had arranged for another companion to relieve Jack of his duties, finally able to leave allowing him and his parents to go home and rest.

By 3 PM, Jack returned to find Ethan drenched in sweat, the pain having returned with a vengeance. Ethan moaned as Jack tried to reposition him, trying to find some measure of comfort.

As Jack worked to ease Ethan's suffering, Ivy entered the room. Ethan's eyes widened in panic, unable to speak. His voice was hoarse, tears streaming down his face as he begged, "Ivy, please... leave."

Ivy froze, unsure of how to react. Jack, his voice low but firm, spoke calmly, "Ivy, you need to leave. Now."

Filled with compassion and helplessness, Ivy turned and left the room, sobbing outside his door. She felt torn between wanting to be there for Ethan and respecting his wishes to maintain his dignity.

The following days were a blur of pain and slow recovery. Ethan's condition improved incrementally, his moments of agony gradually lessening. Jack and the medical team continued their vigilant care, ensuring Ethan's comfort as much as possible.

A week had passed since Ethan's surgery. Jason had reported to Mark about Ivy, detailing her hardworking background and dedication to supporting her family. Although Jason found nothing suspicious, he admitted that he couldn't assess Ivy's true feelings towards Ethan. Mark accepted that only time would reveal her true intentions.

Ivy texted Jack, asking if she could visit Ethan. To her surprise, Ethan agreed. She went back to her dorm and cooked some chicken soup for him, hopeful about their meeting that night.

A Warm Reunion

When Ivy arrived at the hospital, Jack had just finished repositioning Ethan. Despite wincing in pain, Ethan looked much better and smiled genuinely when Ivy walked in.

"Ethan," Ivy said softly, her eyes bright with relief.

Ethan's expression softened. "Ivy, I'm sorry for pushing you away."

Ivy shook her head, her voice gentle. "You don't need to apologize for anything, Ethan."

She prepared the soup she had made, and Ethan smiled, feeling a warmth he hadn't felt in a long time. Although he knew he couldn't stomach much, he tried not to disappoint Ivy. They chatted about office gossip, sharing laughs and lightening the heavy atmosphere.

As they talked, Ivy couldn't help but glance at Ethan's leg, fully casted with external fixators sticking out. She gently touched it, as if wanting to erase his pain. Ethan's heart melted at her touch.

"Ivy, you need to go home. It's late," Ethan said softly. "Jack, please get Rob to take her home."

Ivy responded, "I prefer to go home by myself."

But Ethan was firm. "I won't let you go alone."

Reluctantly, Ivy agreed and left with Rob. Alone with Jack, Ethan confided, "I care deeply about Ivy, but I don't want to drag her into the uncertainty of my future. I don't know if I'll survive this cancer."

Jack placed a reassuring hand on Ethan's shoulder. "Take one day at a time, Ethan. She's here for you now, and that's what matters."

With Jack's comforting words, Ethan finally fell asleep after a long week of difficulties. The pain was still there, but the visit from Ivy and the support from Jack and his family gave him a sense of peace he hadn't felt in a while.

The following days saw slow but steady progress in Ethan's recovery. Ivy continued to visit, each time bringing a bit of comfort and normalcy to his otherwise painful routine. Their conversations ranged from mundane office matters to deeper, more personal topics, gradually rebuilding the bond between them.

Mark, having accepted Ivy's presence in Ethan's life, began to see the positive impact she had on his brother. He remained watchful but more accepting, understanding that Ethan needed all the support he could get.

Removing the Cast

Ethan sat in the hospital, feeling a mix of anticipation and anxiety. Today, his cast would be removed, marking a significant milestone in his recovery. Linda, his mother sat beside him, offering silent support.

"Are you nervous?" she asked softly.

"A little," Ethan admitted. "But I'm ready to get this thing off and start moving again."

Dr. Lewis entered the room, his presence reassuring. "Morning, Ethan. Are you ready?"

Ethan nodded, trying to steady his nerves. "As ready as I'll ever be."

The process of removing the cast was quick but uncomfortable. As the cast came off, Ethan saw his leg for the first time in weeks. It looked thinner and paler than he remembered, the muscles visibly atrophied.

"We'll start with gentle movements and work our way up," Dr. Lewis explained. "The physiotherapy will be challenging, but it's essential for your recovery."

With his cast off, Ethan felt a surge of determination to get back to work. Despite his physical limitations, he needed to feel useful again. His family, though concerned, supported his decision.

On his first day back at the office, Ethan had his tailor modify his pants to accommodate his cast and external fixator. He wheeled himself through the familiar halls, feeling a mix of determination and nostalgia. His colleagues greeted him warmly, their respect for his strength and resolve evident in their smiles and encouraging words.

"Ethan, it's good to have you back," Mark said, clapping him on the shoulder. "Just take it easy, alright?"

"I will," Ethan promised, though he knew he might not keep it. He saw Ivy from a distance and nodded at her. Despite his warmth towards her, he often remained distant and cold, especially when the pain or frustration from his recovery overwhelmed him.

Once in his office, Ethan felt a sense of familiarity that he had missed. The chaos and bustle of the firm were a welcome distraction from his physical struggles. He quickly slipped back into his role, the adrenaline of work providing a temporary relief from the pain.

"Cheryl, please get me an updated schedule for the week," Ethan began, barking orders. He was a natural in his realm—efficient and confident.

Cheryl walked in with a tablet, ready to bring him up to speed. "Here you go, Ethan. We have a new client meeting on Wednesday, and the deposition for the Peterson case has been moved to Friday. Also, there's a conference call with the board of directors tomorrow at 10 AM."

Ethan nodded, absorbing the information. "Good. I also need the latest updates on the Harrison case. How is our prep for that going?"

Cheryl hesitated for a moment. "The Harrison case... There's been a bit of a complication. The opposing counsel has filed a motion to dismiss based on a new piece of evidence they claim undermines our client's position."

Ethan's eyes narrowed. "What evidence?"

Cheryl handed him a folder. "It's an email chain they claim shows our client was aware of the environmental violations but chose to ignore them."

Ethan scanned the documents quickly, his mind racing. "This doesn't look good, but it's not insurmountable. We'll need to counter this with a thorough analysis of our client's decision-making process and establish a timeline that shows compliance efforts. I'll need Henry and Ivy to start working on this immediately."

"Understood," Cheryl said, making a note. "I'll inform them right away."

Ethan leaned back in his chair, the initial excitement of being back at work now mingling with the challenges ahead. He saw Ivy walk past his office and motioned for her to come in.

"Ivy, we have a situation with the Harrison case," Ethan began. "Cheryl will brief you and Henry on the details, but I need you to start dissecting this new evidence. Look for any inconsistencies or context that can work in our favor."

Ivy nodded, her expression serious. "I'll get on it right away."

As Ivy left, Ethan turned his attention back to Cheryl. "Make sure the team knows I need regular updates on this. We can't afford any missteps."

Cheryl nodded. "Got it, Ethan. And welcome back. We've missed your leadership around here."

Ethan managed a small smile. "Thanks, Cheryl. It's good to be back, even if it's just for a bit of normalcy."

At 12:30, Ethan left the office for his lunch and therapy session with Jack at his penthouse. These sessions were crucial for his recovery, but they were also grueling. Jack, a seasoned physiotherapist, pushed Ethan just enough to encourage progress without causing undue pain.

"Let's start with some gentle stretches," Jack instructed. "Remember, slow and steady."

Ethan gritted his teeth, focusing on the exercises. Each movement was a struggle, but he was determined to regain his strength. Jack supported him, correcting his form and encouraging him through the pain.

"Arrgh… I can't, Jack… stop, stop, stop!" Ethan begged in pain, his voice strained.

"I'm sorry, Ethan, but you're doing great. Easy... easy," Jack said, his tone firm but supportive.

Ethan nodded but said nothing, sweat pouring down his face. The pain was intense, but he knew that pushing through it was the only way to recover.

"Let's move on to the leg lifts," Jack continued. "We'll do three sets of ten."

Ethan lay back, trying to steady his breathing. Jack had to lift Ethan's leg for him, as Ethan couldn't do it on his own. Even with Jack's help, the pain was excruciating.

"Good job, Ethan," Jack encouraged. "Just two more sets."

Ethan grunted in response, focusing on enduring the pain. Each lift felt like it was tearing through his leg, but he pushed through, driven by sheer willpower. Jack's steady presence and firm guidance helped him stay on track.

After the session, Ethan was exhausted but felt a sense of accomplishment. He knew these sessions were essential, even if they were painful.

Jack handed Ethan his medication. "Take these, they'll help with the pain and inflammation."

Ethan took the pills gratefully, swallowing them with a sip of water. Jack then helped him clean up and get his suit back on, making sure he was comfortable and presentable for his afternoon meeting.

"Alright, let's get you back to the office," Jack said, wheeling Ethan towards the door.

As they made their way back, Ethan felt a mix of exhaustion and determination. The therapy was tough, but he was committed to his recovery. Returning to the office, he was ready to tackle the next challenge.

Back at the office, Ethan prepared for his 3:30 PM meeting with a new client. This meeting was crucial, as it involved a potential multi-million-dollar lawsuit in a copyright infringement case. Despite his physical struggles, Ethan's mind was sharp, and he was eager to prove himself once again.

Cheryl met him at the door. "The client is waiting in the conference room, Ethan. Everything is set."

"Thanks, Cheryl," Ethan replied, wheeling himself towards the conference room.

As he entered, the room fell silent. The client's team looked up, impressed by Ethan's presence and determination despite his obvious physical challenges.

"Good afternoon," Ethan began, his voice strong and confident. "Let's get started."

Despite the pain and fatigue from his therapy session, Ethan's focus was unwavering. He navigated the complexities of the case with precision, earning the client's trust and respect.

After the meeting, Ethan felt a sense of satisfaction. It was a small victory, but one that reinforced his determination to keep pushing forward.

Removing the External Fixators

Several weeks after the cast removal, the day arrived to remove the external fixators. Ethan sat in the hospital once more, feeling a mixture of anxiety and relief.

Dr. Lewis entered the room, his presence as reassuring as ever. "Morning, Ethan. Are you ready to take the next step in your recovery?"

Ethan nodded, his determination evident. "Let's do this."

The medical team prepped the area, ensuring everything was sterile. The local anesthesia took effect, numbing the area around the fixators. Dr. Lewis worked methodically, carefully unscrewing and removing each pin and rod. Ethan felt pressure and slight discomfort but no pain.

Once the fixators were removed, the pin sites were cleaned and dressed. Dr. Lewis applied a soft cast to protect Ethan's leg, emphasizing the importance of continuing his physiotherapy.

With the fixators removed, Ethan's physiotherapy sessions intensified. Jack increased the intensity of the exercises, pushing Ethan to his limits.

"Let's add some weight-bearing exercises," Jack said one afternoon. "This will help strengthen your leg muscles."

Ethan gritted his teeth, pushing himself through the pain. "I can handle it," he replied, determination in his eyes.

Jack watched him closely, ready to step in if necessary. "You're doing great, Ethan. Just remember to listen to your body."

As Ethan's physical condition improved, the reality of his upcoming chemotherapy sessions loomed over him. Dr. Lewis had informed him that as soon as he was strong enough, he would need to start the chemotherapy treatments to ensure the cancer was completely eradicated.

Ethan dreaded the thought but knew it was necessary. He confided in Jack about his fears.

"I'm not looking forward to this," Ethan admitted one evening. "But I know it has to be done."

Ethan's chemotherapy sessions began, marking a new and challenging phase in his recovery. The treatments were grueling, leaving him physically drained and emotionally strained. Missing office days because of the side effects only added to his frustration.

After a particularly rough session, Ethan returned to his penthouse, feeling weak and nauseous. The pain and exhaustion were overwhelming, and he struggled to contain his anger.

Jack, always supportive, tried to help. "Ethan, you need to rest. Pushing yourself too hard will only make it worse."

"I know, Jack!" Ethan snapped, his frustration boiling over. "But I can't just sit here and do nothing. I need to work, to feel useful."

His maid, who brought him some tea, was met with a sharp retort. "I don't want any tea! Just leave me alone!"

Rob, his driver, offered to run some errands for him, only to be dismissed harshly. "I don't need anything, Rob. Stop bothering me."

Even Mark, who tried to provide some brotherly support, faced Ethan's wrath. "Mark, I don't need your pity. Just let me handle this my way."

Despite his harsh words, those around him remained compassionate and understanding. They knew the chemo was taking a toll on him, and they chose to support him silently, giving him the space he needed.

One night, Ivy came to the penthouse, concerned about Ethan. She found him in the bathroom, vomiting violently. Ignoring his repeated demands for her to leave, she sat beside him, stroking his back gently.

"Ethan, I'm not going anywhere," Ivy said softly, her touch comforting. "I'm here for you."

Ethan wanted to push her away, to shield her from his vulnerability, but he was too weak. Her presence, though initially frustrating, soon became a source of comfort.

After what felt like an eternity, Ethan finally stopped vomiting. Ivy helped him back to bed, her movements gentle and caring.

"Let me help you," she said softly as she tried to lift his leg back onto the bed. As she did, Ethan winced in pain, his face contorted with discomfort. The sight scared Ivy, her heart racing with worry.

"I'm sorry, Ethan," she whispered, her voice trembling. "I didn't mean to hurt you."

Ethan took a deep breath, trying to compose himself. "It's okay, Ivy. It's not your fault. This... this is just part of the process."

Her eyes filled with concern, Ivy gently placed his leg down, making sure he was as comfortable as possible. "I'm here for you, Ethan. We'll get through this together."

Ethan nodded, grateful for her support despite the pain. "Thank you," he mumbled, too exhausted to resist any longer.

The days following were a blur of chemo sessions, pain, and brief moments of respite. Each time Ethan felt like giving up, Ivy's presence reminded him why he needed to keep fighting.

One evening, as Ivy studied beside his bed, Ethan looked at her with silent admiration. She was a beacon of hope in his darkest moments, her unwavering support giving him the strength to endure.

"Ivy," he said softly, breaking the silence.

She looked up from her book, her eyes filled with concern. "Yes, Ethan?"

"Thank you for being here," he said, his voice filled with genuine gratitude.

Ivy smiled, her eyes warm. "You're welcome, Ethan. I'll always be here for you."

As the chemotherapy sessions continued, Ethan began to notice the inevitable side effects. His strength waned, nausea became a constant companion, and worst of all, his hair started to fall out. Each strand that came away in his hand was a stark reminder of the battle he was fighting.

One morning, Ethan stood in front of the mirror, staring at the thinning patches on his scalp. He ran a hand over his head, feeling the uneven texture. The sight made his heart sink, but he clenched his jaw, refusing to show any emotion.

Ivy found him there, his expression a mix of frustration and stoicism. She stepped closer, placing a gentle hand on his shoulder. "Ethan, it's okay. This is just part of the process."

He turned to her, his eyes hard but filled with an underlying pain.

She shook her head, her eyes filled with compassion. "You're still strong, Ethan. You're fighting, and that's what really matters."

Ethan sighed, the weight of his struggle pressing down on him. "Just help me fix this."

Ivy wheeled Ethan to the bathroom. She took out a pair of clippers and turned them on, the soft buzz filling the room. Ethan's eyes closed, his breath steady but filled with trepidation.

"I'll make this quick," Ivy promised, her voice soothing. She began to shave his head, each stroke deliberate and careful. As the hair fell away, Ivy's touch remained steady and comforting.

Ethan felt the cool air on his bare scalp, the sensation foreign and unsettling. But Ivy's presence grounded him, her hands gentle and reassuring. She worked with patience and care, making sure he was as comfortable as possible.

When she finished, she stepped back to look at him. Ethan opened his eyes and glanced at his reflection. The man staring back at him was different, but he also saw strength and resilience.

Ivy knelt beside him, her eyes meeting his. "You're still Mr. Caldwell, Senior Partner of Caldwell and Caldwell. Strong, determined, and capable."

Ethan reached out and took her hand, squeezing it gently. "Thanks, Ivy. That'll do."

Back at the office, his colleagues noticed the change but treated him with the same respect and admiration. Ethan appreciated their support, knowing that their acceptance helped bolster his confidence.

One afternoon, Ivy found Ethan in his office, reviewing case files. She smiled as she saw him, his focus unwavering despite everything he was going through.

"How are you feeling today?" she asked, sitting across from him.

Ethan looked up, a small smile on his lips. "Better. Stronger, even."

Ivy's eyes softened. "Happy to hear that Mr. Caldwell."

He nodded, appreciating her efforts. "I know. Thanks."