Taking a Shower
Monday
Lois got up early, there was a lot to do today.
She first went to check little John, she changed his diaper and gave him his bottle. Then, with John in her arms, she went to make breakfast for her and Jonathan.
She was finishing preparing breakfast when Jonathan, who had already bathed and dressed, appeared in the kitchen.
- Good morning Lois
— Good morning
- You got up early today - said Jonathan, who was used to getting up very early to tend to the farm.
- Yes... There are many things to do...
- Yes... If you want, I can go get some boxes at the corner store to start packing some things.
- Oh, yes... It would be great - Lois said - I'll go later to a bigger store to see if I can bring more boxes
- Great - said Jonathan - I can stay with John today if you want
- Oh really?
- Yes, no problem... - Jonathan said - just let me go for those boxes so I can pack during the day
- Great... I'll go take a shower while you finish your breakfast - Lois said, standing up - when you're done you can leave John in the room... I won't take long
Clark was woken up today by his bladder, apparently the last pee before going to bed had been too early
- Mom? Are you awake? - Clark asked, he didn't want to have to wake up his mom, but if he called one of the nurses she would wake up anyway.
- Are you okay honey? Something happens?
- I'm fine... It's just that I need to go to the bathroom...
- Oh, I'll call one of the nurses.
Just a minute later, Martha returned with Anne.
- Good morning Mr Kent
- Good morning Anne... - Clark answered, moving the sheets that covered his legs and practicing what he learned yesterday to be able to sit by himself - could you help me go to the bathroom?
- Sure! - said Anne very happy, it always made her happy that her patients begin to recover, and in this case Mr Kent did it at great speed
Anne moved the wheelchair to the bed, and with Martha's help, Clark was safely seated in it. Clark moved the wheelchair to the bathroom
- Can you do it alone or do you need help? - asked Anne, before Clark closed the door.
- I can do it... - Clark replied.
Last night he had managed to do it a couple of times by himself, it had taken a few minutes and a lot of effort on his part, but he had done it.
- Okay, but don't latch the door - said Anne - just as a precaution
- Okay... - Clark said, closing the door. Now that he thought about it, Anne was right, it was better not to latch it, since even though he had managed to transfer himself a couple of times, he had also been on the verge of falling a couple of times too
To Clark's relief he was able to transfer to the toilet with no problem, and just a few minutes later he was out of the bathroom. Martha and Anne were waiting for him, to help him back to bed.
- Do I really have to go back to bed? - Clark asked.
- I'm afraid so, but don't get discouraged Mr. Kent, Dr. Klein and the others will be coming soon - said Anne, while with the help of Martha they put Clark back in bed - for now I'll bring you breakfast
- Thank you
- How are you feeling today honey? - Martha asked when Anne left the room.
- Better than yesterday... The pain has decreased a lot - Clark answered - did you sleep well?
- Yes honey, don't worry - Martha replied - I'll go get something to eat, I'll be right back
- Okay...
- I got a few boxes - Jonathan said as he entered the house - I think we can start with the packaging
- Oh, great... Thanks Jonathan - said Lois, while she finished putting on her shoes - I'm going to the bank...
- Ok... Will you come back for lunch?
- I don't think so, after the bank I have to continue doing several other things... - Lois answered, taking her purse and folder with all the necessary papers - are you sure you'll be okay?
- Of course, don't worry about us.
- Thank you Jonathan... I'll bring more boxes and at night we'll pack - Lois said, approaching John - bye honey, be good to grandpa
Shortly after breakfast Dr. Klein entered the room.
- Good morning Clark, how are you feeling today?
- Good... The pain has continued to decrease.
- Excellent! - replied Dr. Klein - have any other of your superpowers come back?
- No, nothing at the moment...
- I see... - said Dr. Klein - in a few minutes Sean and Kelly will come to do more exercises, and you can go out and get some sun
- Brilliant
- Yesterday with everything that happened we did not put the UV lamps on, but I think that after the morning therapies you could put them on to help speed up your recovery
- Oh great
- Ah, before I forget... I already have the papers that Lois asked me to fill out, in case you talk to her to let her know
- Oh ok...
- Very well Clark today we will practice some exercises that will help you with some of the things that you will see today with Kelly - Sean said before starting the therapy session
- Oh ok...
- For now we will continue practicing in the bed, but soon we will do the exercises in the gym - Sean said - so we can do all kinds of exercises
- Oh... great - Clark replied, not quite sure what he meant by that.
- The first thing we will see today will be to raise the hip... - explained Sean - for that we will adjust the bed so that it is completely horizontal... You stay seated for now
- Okay...
Sean grabbed the remote from the bed and began to lower the headboard.
Clark for his part was sitting with his legs stretched out in front of him on the bed.
- This movement will help you a lot for when you have to dress yourself - Kelly explained
- Given the nature of your injury, you should still have control of the hip and be able to move it without problem - Sean said - ... But it is also possible that due to the recentness of the injury and the operation, it will be a little difficult at first.. So don't be discouraged if that happens
- Okay...
- First I want you to lie down slowly... - Sean said - ... That, very good...
- Does your back hurt when you are lying down? - asked Dr. Klein, since it was the first time that Clark was completely lying down, until now the bed had always been semi inclined
- Bit...
- Okay... We'll do some repetitions, but if you feel it's too much we'll stop - Sean said.
- Okay...
- Okay, now I want you to try to lift your pelvis a few centimeters... Without the help of your hands - Sean explained.
- Imagine that you are putting on your pants and you have to finish raising them - Kelly said - to get up that last stretch you must raise your hips and give one last pull
- I understand... - Clark said, taking a breath to try the exercise
- Brilliant! Try to hold the position for two seconds... - Sean said - Rest...
- How's the pain Clark? - asked Dr. Klein
- Fine... I can go on a little more.
- You did pretty well - Sean told him - Try to hold for two seconds again...
Clark managed to get the drill right the next three tries, although it required quite a bit of effort on his part. The area of the injury was still tender and the pain gradually increased with each attempt.
- We'll do one last try, but this time with your legs dangling over the side of the bed - Sean said.
- As you probably do when you get dressed - Kelly added.
- Okay...
- So, first try to sit down... - Sean told him
Getting to sit up after being fully reclined was more difficult than doing it with the bed semi tilted, but Clark managed to do it.
- Good, now put your legs over the side of the bed... - Sean said - ... And now lie down again...
- Very good, honey - Martha told her, seeing how her son was progressing every minute.
- Very good, now try to raise your hip and hold for two seconds
- Ok... - Clark answered, before trying again. This time it had been a little more difficult, since apparently the weight of the legs that dangled over the side of the bed made the exercise more difficult.
- Very good Clark! - Sean told him - ... We'll leave it there for now, I don't want to overload the area of the injury
- Ok... - Clark answered sitting down.
- How is the pain? - asked Dr. Klein worried, he didn't want Clark to overdo it and end up hurting himself
- Well... If I'm sitting down it almost doesn't hurt...
- Well, remember not to overexert yourself... If you feel it is better to stop, you just have to tell us - Dr. Klein told him
- I know... Thank you Dr. Klein - Clark replied
Clark understood Dr. Klein's concern, and frankly shared it. Thanks to his powers, he had never caught a cold, broken a bone or had an illness, let alone found himself in a situation similar to this, so he has never had to rest or "take it easy"... He was used to his body just did whatever he asked of it. The few times he had faced kryptonite or had no powers, it had been for a short time and he had only felt "human", like when he was unable to using his powers... But now everything was different, he had already lying on that bed for a week, and even though his body was recovering quite quickly, he still had to take it easy... Let's just say that his patience was slowly running out, and he was worried that by being impatient he might push his body more than necessary and only make things worse
- What do you think if we try something new - Kelly said - ... I suppose you would like to take a shower
- Oh, yes... Please.
Clark hadn't wanted bliss this bad in a long time. During this week Anne and Julie had been helping him with various aspects of his personal hygiene. They had brought a sink over for him so he could brush his teeth or shaved him while he was still lying on his side, and had given him a few sponge baths, so he wasn't really dirty, but nothing beats a nice hot shower.
Sean and Kelly moved Clark into the wheelchair so they could head to the bathroom.
- Were you able to come to the bathroom by yourself? - Kelly asked.
- Yes... I think I've been here three or four times already.
- Marvelous! - Kelly said entering the bathroom - Well, as you can see, this bathroom does not have a tub, and the shower does not have any obstacles on the floor, which allows the wheelchair to move freely
- Yes... - Clark replied.
- Before we go any further... How did your house hunt go the other day? - Kelly asked.
- Oh, Lois found a very good one... In fact, now he must be doing the paperwork at the bank - Clark answered - although it wasn't any of the ones we reviewed that day
- I see... And the bathroom, do you know if it has a tub or a shower? Do you know if the shower is freely accessible like this one or does it have a small edge so that the water does not escape? - Kelly asked
- Oh... Ehmm - Clark replied, not quite sure of the answer.
- We have the photos Jimmy brought - said Martha - I'll bring them
Martha went back into the room to get the photos, then handed them over to Kelly.
- Thanks - Kelly said - ... Really a very good choice... - she added while looking at all the photos - Oh, here is the bathroom... It has a shower, but it has a small cement edge to retain the water, and the shower door track also goes through there...
- That's too bad? - Martha asked.
- No, it simply requires a different approach from Clark - Kelly answered - let me explain... In the event that the bathroom has a bathtub, so that Clark could shower alone, he would need a shower board and a holding bar . This table is supported on the edges of the tub, so that the person is sitting on the tub
- Oh... I see - Clark said, trying to imagine what Kelly was saying to him.
- In case of having a shower with free access like the one in this bathroom, people can get as close as possible to a shower chair that is inside the shower - Kelly said - if it is not the case, like in the shower in the new house, you will simply have to bring the wheelchair as close as possible to the shower chair, and leaning on the grab bars to make a transfer
- Oh... - Clark said, looking at the shower chair.
The chair Kelly was showing him was a wide chair, with a plastic back and armrests. The seat was plastic and had holes so that water could drain freely. Its legs were made of stainless steel, and at the tips they had rubber bands so that it would not slip.
- Or eventually do a bathroom remodel - Sean added.
- Well, from what I see in the photos, the shower already has a hand shower, so if they do any remodeling, they just have to take care of the rail and add some grab bars
- Ok... I'll talk about it with Lois - Clark said.
- For the moment let's practice with this shower - said Kelly - the transfer is very similar to the transfer to the toilet or the bed, but you must be very careful that the shower chair does not move... Sometimes the same soap or the water left on the shower floor make the chair move when you try to sit down... And that can be very dangerous
- Oh I understand...
- That's why you should lean more on the bars than on the chair itself - Kelly said - if you look closely, this shower has two grab bars that allow you to get in and out safely, and lean to reach the water faucets and the hand shower, which as you can see has a second support below so that you can reach it
- Oh... I see - Clark said, looking carefully at the shower and everything that Kelly was showing him.
- Do you want to try? - Kelly asked.
- Yeah, sure - Clark said, the sooner he got it, the sooner he could shower.
- Excellent, then first position the chair... In this case it is with the small wheels a little inside the shower, but in the house you should try to get as close as possible - Kelly said
- Okay...
- We put on the brakes, and you lean forward a bit... - Kelly said, as she helped Clark - ...Now before we do the transfer, you must confirm that the shower chair is stable and doesn't move.
- Ok... No, it doesn't move - Clark said, checking that the chair is safe.
- ... Hold on to that bar and with the other hand on the wheelchair... And with a single push up try to sit down... Remember to let yourself fall gently into the chair, so that it does not move
- Okay...
- Excellent, now make yourself comfortable... - Kelly told him - well... Try to reach the water faucets or the hand shower
Clark stretched a little so he could pretend to turn on the water and grab the hand shower so he could shower.
- It is too uncomfortable? - asked Dr. Klein
Since the bathroom was spacious, Dr. Klein, Sean, Kelly, Martha and Clark were in it... A little tight, but everyone wanted to be present
- Uhm... No...
- Over time you will get used to this new way of showering - Kelly told him with a smile - ... Some people like to have a head shower in addition to the hand shower, to make it easier to wash their hair...
- We could see what suits you best, and discuss it with Lois to make some remodeling in the new bathroom - Martha told her - in any case, we will have to install the bars, we can take advantage and leave the bathroom as comfortable as possible for you
- Yeah... It's not a bad idea to have both - Clark said.
- After showering I recommend that you put a towel on the seat of the wheelchair, and with another towel you dry off as much as possible while you are in the shower chair - Kelly told him
- Oh I understand
- Once you are back in the chair you can cover yourself with the towel again, and go to the room to dress more calmly
- Ok... - Clark said, as he made the transfer to sit back in the wheelchair.
- If you want, you could take a shower later - said Dr. Klein - but someone must accompany you, just as a precaution so you don't fall
- Oh ok ..
- Let's go back to the room - Kelly said - I know you know how to dress, but from now on you'll have to make some changes... It might be a little frustrating at first, since it takes you a little longer than before... But will not be a big change anyway
- Okay..
- What you should keep in mind is that since you no longer have feeling in your legs, you should especially take care of your feet - explained Dr. Klein - make sure that socks or shoes are not too tight, or that your feet are not too cold
- Oh I understand
- What do you think if we leave this here for now, so you have time to shower and change clothes - said Dr. Klein, looking at Clark who (like several days ago) was in his pajamas - and later we go outside?, So you can enjoy the outdoors a bit, and Kelly can teach you other things
- Oh... Great - said Clark, who was excited to be able to shower, but not so excited about having to do it with someone there.
- Do you want me to call Anne? - asked Dr Klein - or perhaps...
Dr. Klein interrupted what he was saying as someone had entered the room
- Lois, it's good to see you - Dr. Klein said when he saw her come in - I have the papers you asked for.
- Oh, great, thanks Dr. Klein - Lois said, approaching Clark to give him a kiss - Hello honey, how is everything today?... Hello Martha
- Hello... Fine... Kelly was teaching me everything related to the shower - Clark replied
- Oh, excellent - Lois replied, she knew how much Clark wanted to be able to take a shower.
- In fact, Lois, I'd like to talk to you and Clark about a few things about the bathroom in the new house - Kelly said.
- In fact, I also wanted to talk about that... - Lois said
- Oh really? - Clark asked.
- That's right... I wanted to look for a handyman to be able to install the bars in the bathrooms of the house or do some adaptation in the kitchen - Lois replied - but I wanted to consult with you first, to know exactly what we need
- Well, while you talk, I'll continue with my work... - said Dr. Klein - I'll come back later
- I'm retiring too - said Sean, see you later
- Lois, I'll leave the papers with Anne - Dr. Klein said before leaving the room.
- OK, thanks a lot
- Okay, let's see those pictures - Kelly said.
Martha and Lois sat on the small sofa where they spent the night, while Kelly sat in a chair. The three of them together with Clark began to analyze the photos in order to define the arrangements that should be made.
First they checked the ones in the two bathrooms in the house. The first bathroom they checked was the one in the bedroom that would be theirs, it was spacious so the chair could fit without any problems, and it was the one with the shower with the small obstacle on the floor
- Ideally, this obstacle would not be there, and that the rail for the door would be installed in such a way that it would not affect the passage of the wheelchair - Kelly explained - and also it is necessary to pay attention that the inclination of the shower towards the drainage is indicated, since if the water escapes and the whole bathroom gets wet it could be very slippery and dangerous
- I understand... - Lois answered, writing down her instructions in her notebook. She would have to ask the handyman if it is possible to do that job
- It is also important to install the grab bars, ones in the toilet and others in the shower - Kelly said - ... If you want I can draw you on the photo how and where they should be installed
- Oh, that would be wonderful - Lois said.
- Then we'll take Clark's measurements, so they're up to him - Kelly said.
- For what? - Martha asked.
- It is important that they are not too high or too low so that the movements are as fluid and efficient as possible - explained Kelly
- Oh, I understand - Clark said - oh, and we will have to buy a shower chair like the one here
- Ok, I add it to the list - said Lois
- And if it is possible, it would be ideal to remove the pedestal of the sink, so that Clark can access it without problems - Kelly added
- Ok - Lois said, writing it down in her notebook
The second bathroom was a bit smaller and have a tub, but the chair fit easily, so in theory Clark could use that bathroom too if he wanted to.
- I don't know if you are going to want to adapt this bathroom as well or not - Kelly said - or if you will only adapt the main one
- I don't know... What do you think? - Clark said - maybe it's not necessary...
- We could put some bars for the toilet - Lois said - in case I'm occupying ours and you need to go to the bathroom
- Believe me, I can wait for you to come out - Clark said with a smile - besides, the bars would take up a lot of space in the bathroom, and I really don't think it's that necessary
- But what if your bathroom breaks down? - asked Martha - what would you do then?
- Maybe you could leave it as it is for now - Kelly said - ... There is always the possibility of doing it later if it is necessary
- She's right... - said Lois - let's see the kitchen then
The kitchen was spacious, very similar to the one in the current house. With cabinets on both sides and a small table in one corner
- Do you like to cook Clark? Kelly asked.
- Yes, quite a lot
- Actually, he's in charge of cooking - Lois clarified.
- Well, in that case, some changes will have to be made, to allow Clark to cook more comfortably - Kelly said.
-Yes, we had thought about changing the kitchen for a countertop and putting the oven in another place - said Lois - and maybe taking out some of the lower cabinets so that he can use the counter
- Yes, they are good ideas - Kelly said - but also consider the dishwasher, and make sure that when you remove cabinets there is still enough space to store the most important things
- What are you talking about? - Clark asked.
- Well, you will no longer reach the highest shelves, so all the essentials for cooking and what you use daily should be within your reach - Kelly explained - on the high shelves you should store things that are not used so often
- Oh... - Clark said, he hadn't thought of that.
- In any case, there are long pick up helping reach sticks, which will allow you to pick up things from the ground or from high places without problems - Kelly said - but it's much easier if you have what you use the most at hand
- I understand - Lois said, noting tweezers on her list.
- Tomorrow we will practice with it - Kelly told Clark - I guess you didn't know them
- No ...
- Don't worry, they are not difficult to use, they just require practice
- Okay...
- Well, from what I see in the photos there are no more adaptations to make - Kelly said, standing up - ... See you later Clark
- Oh, sure... Thanks for the help Kelly - Clark said
- Ah, before I go... I wanted to talk about something very important - Kelly said - now that Clark is beginning to resume his routine, it's very normal that you want to help him...
- Yes, of course - answered Martha and Lois
- But it is very important that you remember to respect Clark's independence - Kelly said - let him do things by himself... Don't just do things for him, always ask if he needs help or not
- Oh sure
- And Clark, I know you want to go back to doing the things you did before - Kelly said - but it's important to take your time, and not rush things... And if you need help with something, ask for it... Don't let your pride play against you
- Ok... I understand... - Clark answered - thanks Kelly
As soon as Kelly left the room, Clark turned to look at Lois.
- How was your morning?
- Fine, I went to the bank - Lois replied - everything is in order with the credit... As soon as the owner has the contract ready we can sign it, and if we're lucky the move could be this weekend
- So soon? Clark asked.
- The sooner we move, the better... - Lois replied - ... So we'll have everything ready when you're discharged
- Lois is right honey - said Martha - I know you would like to participate in the move, but the best thing is that when you can go home, you don't have problems moving around
- Yes... You're right.
- So you already have permission to take a shower? - Lois asked, trying to cheer Clark up.
- Yes, but not alone
- What are you talking about? - Lois asked.
- Dr. Klein prefers that someone come in with me, as a precaution... So that I don't fall or something like that - Clark explained -... It's a little more complicated than going to the WC... And it can be slippery... .
- Oh... - Lois said - Do you want me to come in with you?
- Do you have time? Shouldn't you go do some other paperwork?
- I'll always have time for you Clark - Lois told him, standing up to go and kiss him - and it's just a shower, how long can it take?
- Thank you - Clark told her with a smile.
- Give me a few minutes to go to the car - Lois said - I brought a change of clothes for Martha, and also one for you
- You're the best
- I know... I'll be right back
- In fact dear, why don't I go? Your help Clark in the meanwhile - said Martha
- Oh, ok... Thanks - said Lois - let's go then
Clark entered the bathroom followed by Lois, who closed the door behind her.
- Well honey you will have to explain to me what I should do, because I arrived after the explanation - Lois said
- I need to get undressed first... And then move the chair closer to the shower chair... - Clark said
- Ok... - Lois said, remembering what Kelly told her a few minutes ago, she added - and what do you need me to help you with?
- I don't know yet... - Clark replied, somewhat unsure what he should do first.
- Relax, let's go by part and you tell me if you need help with something, ok?
- Okay...
- Let's start with your clothes... - said Lois - start to undress yourself, and leave the clothes on top of the WC
- Okay... - Clark said.
Clark started with the glasses, which he passed to Lois for safekeeping. Then he continued with the socks, lifting one leg and then the other with his hands. Next it was the turn of the pajama pants, this was a little more difficult, since as he had to do when he wanted to go to the WC, he had to lower his pants while he was still sitting, therefore he had to do it little by little, and go lowering the pants with one hand on one side and then on the other
Lois looked amazed at how Clark moved, definitely dropping his pants like this was not something comfortable, but Clark apparently had already got the rhythm of the thing.
Clark then took off his pajama top, leaving him only in his boxers.
Lois looked carefully at Clark, it's been several days since she could look at her husband like this.
- I like the view - said Lois with a knowing smile
- Lois... - Clark answered a little embarrassed.
Lois walked over to Clark and sat on his lap to give him a passionate kiss.
- I've missed you so much - Lois said between kisses.
- And I to you - Clark said kissing her back.
The passionate kiss was starting to get more and more intense when someone knocked on the door.
- Lois? - Martha said on the other side of the door - I have Clark's clothes
- Oh, I'll be right over there - Lois said, standing up and going to the door, opening it just enough for her to fit the clothes - thank you Martha
- You're welcome honey
Lois closed the door again, and she turned to look at her handsome husband.
- Maybe we should concentrate on the shower - Lois said.
- Yes... Maybe - Clark answered, turning the wheelchair a little to get closer to the shower
As Clark turned the wheelchair, Lois was able to see Clark's back...which she hadn't seen since the morning of the attack.
- Oh... they haven't disappeared
- What thing? - Clark asked.
- The scars... - Lois replied, approaching Clark, and gently caressing the thin lines that covered her husband's skin - ... They are thin and look like old scars... But I thought they would disappear as usual
- Oh... Me too - Clark answered surprised. Not that he had had many injuries in his life, but he had never had a scar.
- ...Maybe the liquid Kryptonite has something to do with it - Lois said.
- Yes maybe
- So what's next? - Lois asked.
- I have to transfer to the shower chair - Clark said - ... And you have to be careful in case I slipped or something...
- Okay...
Clark pulled the chair closer, just as he had done earlier, set the brakes, and began the transfer. Just like he did a few minutes ago, he managed to do it without help.
Next, Clark took the brakes off the wheelchair, so he could move it back a bit, and thus be able to close the shower doors.
- You are ok like that? Do you have soap and shampoo at hand? - Lois asked as soon as Clark closed the shower door.
- Eh... Yes, everything is here - answered Clark
- Ok, I'll be here .. just let me know if you need anything - Lois told him
- How is the water? - Lois asked after a few minutes in which Clark hadn't said a word.
- Great... I missed taking a shower - Clark said.
- Are you ready?
- Yes ... I'm ready - Clark said, as he turned off the water.
Clark opened the shower door, and grabbed the towel that was hanging on the side of the shower.
Drying off while sitting down was quite different from what he was used to, especially since he couldn't wrap the towel around his waist as usual. However, Clark tried to dry and cover himself up as best he could.
- Oh... I forgot the second towel - Clark said, as soon as he remembered what Kelly had told him.
- Second towel?
- I have to put a towel on the seat of the wheelchair, to avoid getting it wet... - Clark said - but I forgot... Could you pass me another towel?
- Sure - Lois said, taking a towel from the shelf over the WC - I'll give it to you or do I put it there?
- Ehm... Let me see if I can stretch myself enough to do it.
- Okay - Lois replied, passing the towel to Clark.
Clark took the towel and folded it in 4, then stretched a bit so he could take the wheelchair and bring it as close as possible. As Clark stretched out, he was careful to hold on to one of the bars so he wouldn't lose his balance. Once the wheelchair was close, Clark was able to put the towel on the seat with no problem.
- Good, now you transfer back, right? - Lois asked.
- Yes... - Clark said, adjusting the towel around his waist as best as possible before transferring to the wheelchair.
Clark settled in the shower chair, put one hand on the grab bar, and the other on the wheelchair, ready to perform the push up... But just as he tried to do the push up, the hand that was on the bar slipped and the wheelchair moved backwards a bit. Clark had forgotten to check some very important things: the grab bar was wet, and he had forgotten to put the brakes on the wheelchair.
- Clark! - Lois said scared, getting up to prevent Clark from falling to the ground.
Clark for his part, when he felt that the wheelchair had moved, had tried to regain his balance by holding on to the grab bar more strongly. Clark's efforts prevented him from falling completely to the ground, and with Lois' help, he was able to sit up again.
- Are you OK? - Lois asked worriedly - did you hurt yourself?
- I'm fine... - Clark replied, still somewhat scared, he didn't feel like ending up on the bathroom floor, possibly falling on his back - I forgot to put the brakes on the wheelchair...
- Uff... You scared me - said Lois relieved - don't do it again, please
- Believe me .. from now on I will not forget it
Lois moved the wheelchair closer, this time making sure the brakes would stay on, while Clark dried the grab bar with the towel. It was time for a second try
This time Clark was able to transfer to the wheelchair without major problems, although the towel that he had around his waist ended up on the floor.
- Don't worry honey - Lois said picking up the towel and passing it to Clark to cover himself - you'll get the hang of it, it's just a matter of practice
- Yes I hope so
- Do you prefer to dress here or in the room? - Lois asked.
- Here... - Clark answered, taking the underpants to start dressing - at least the main thing
- I agree - Lois said, going to kiss Clark - no one else has the right to look at you... Only me
- Mmmm - Clark said between kisses - Lois... You know that I only have eyes for you... And that I would love to continue with this... But...
- But? - Lois said, as she continued to kiss Clark.
- You have to go... - Clark said, trying to focus on what he was trying to say, and not on Lois and her wonderful kisses - ...and Dr. Klein will be back soon...
- I know... You're right - Lois said, giving him one last kiss - but as soon as they discharge you, you'll be all mine, mister.
- Yes ma'am - answered Clark with a flirtatious smile
- Haha, you'd better get dressed... - Lois told him, bringing the rest of his clothes to him.
- How was the shower honey? - Martha asked when Clark and Lois came out of the bathroom.
- Good, very good indeed.
- Excellent! Do you have any problems transferring from one place to another?
- Ehm... No - said Clark, who seeing the incredulous look of his mother added - I forgot to put the brakes on the wheelchair when trying to get out, but nothing happened...
Martha, somewhat worried, looked at Lois in search of more information.
- Don't worry, Martha, it was a small mistake... Nothing bad happened and it definitely won't happen again.
- Oh, okay - Martha said more calmly - and was it too difficult to get dressed in the bathroom?
- Not so difficult... - Clark said - But not very comfortable... I think next time I'll come to get dressed in the room.
StarLabs usually did not receive patients, only from time to time for some kind of experiment, so they only had a couple of rooms with everything necessary to receive them. But the rooms did not have their own bathroom, they shared a bathroom and it was in the corridor, which is why Clark had decided to get dressed there.
- I'm sure next time it will be easier - said Martha with a smile
- I'm sorry honey, I'd like to stay a while longer, but I have to go now - Lois said, leaving Clark's pajamas on the bed.
- I know honey, don't worry - Clark said.
- I'll call you later to tell you how everything is going with the house - Lois said, taking her bag and approaching Clark to kiss him goodbye.
- You want to go for a walk outside for a while - Martha said as Lois left the room.
- Oh, yes... Please - Clark said animatedly - I just have to finish getting dressed first. Do you know where my sneakers are?
- Yes, here they are - Martha said, handing him the sneakers that she had brought from Lois's car.
Lois had brought comfortable clothes for Clark, a pair of pants and a sports shirt, and his sneakers.
Lois, before leaving StarLabs, went to look for the documents that Dr. Klein had had to fill out, and then she went to her next stop, the Daily Planet.
- Lois! - Jimmy said very happy when he saw her enter the newsroom.
Hearing Jimmy, everyone present, including Perry, turned their heads to see the newcomer.
Jimmy and Perry came over to say hello to Lois.
- Lois, honey... How are you? How's Clark doing? - Perry asked, putting his arm around Lois's shoulders and discreetly leading her to his office. He didn't want the whole newsroom listening in on the conversation and then gossiping around.
- Fine... I actually came from there - Lois said, walking into Perry's office. Jimmy walked in after her and closed the door.
- Were they able to take the exams that were pending? - Perry asked.
- Yes... Dr. Klein was able to confirm his diagnosis - Lois replied.
- And which one is it? - Jimmy asked.
- Paraplegia due to complete section of the spinal cord - answered Lois
- So it's permanent? - Perry asked.
- Yeah...
- Oh honey... I'm so sorry - Perry replied.
- How is CK? - Jimmy asked.
- Well... Adapting little by little - answered Lois - he goes quite well with what the physiatrist and the occupational therapist have taught him
- That's good - Perry said - do you know when they will discharge him? Or when he will be able to return to work?
- No... Dr. Klein hasn't told us anything about it yet.
- In that case we will have time to make the necessary adaptations so that Clark can be comfortable here - Perry said - I want you to tell me what we should improve
- Thanks Perry - answered Lois - first I'll go to leave these papers with human resources, and then we can talk about that
- Sure, no problem - answered Perry - and you, when will you return?
- I don't know yet... - answered Lois - at the moment I'm just worried about Clark and the new house...
- Are you going to buy the one we saw the other day? - asked Jimmy excitedly.
- Yes, this morning I went to the bank to sign the loan... I just need to sign the contract with the current owner of the house... - Lois replied - ... I hope we can move over the weekend
- If you need help, just let me know - Jimmy said.
- Thanks Jimmy - answered Lois with a smile - do you know of a handyman who can help me with the repairs that I have to do in the new house?
- Yes... The one that made some arrangements for us in my house - Perry said, approaching his desk to look for the presentation card - his name is George, tell him you're calling on my behalf
- Thanks Perry - Lois said, writing down the handyman's contact information - I'll go to human resources, I'll be right back
As soon as Lois left the office, Jimmy looked at Perry and said
- Poor CK...
- Yeah... But Clark is strong... He will be able to cope with this... - Perry said - and we must be there to support him and Lois
- Of course, chief.
Clark and Martha had been enjoying the sun and the fresh air for a long time, walking through the gardens of the laboratory. The gardens weren't particularly pretty, but for Clark everything was better than him being locked up and in bed.
After walking around the gardens, Martha had sat down on a bench, and Clark had positioned the wheelchair next to her. The conversation between the two had been very pleasant, and Clark had managed to maneuver the chair without difficulty without realizing it.
- Enjoying the sun? - said Dr. Klein as he approached them
- Yes... much better than being indoors in bed - Clark replied
- How do you feel? Pain or discomfort from being in the wheelchair for so long? - asked Dr. Klein, looking at his watch. Clark had already been in the gardens for almost 40 minutes.
- No... Almost nothing, in fact I feel very good - answered Clark animated
- Excellent - answered Dr. Klein - apparently the sun is already beginning to take effect
- That's good - Martha added relieved, she didn't like to see her son in so much pain
- That's right, it's a very good sign - said Dr. Klein - I already installed a couple of UV lamps in your room
- Thanks - Clark said.
- Obviously it is difficult to explain to others why you need a UV lamp - said Dr Klein - so you must be careful when using them
- Oh ok
- They turn on and off with a remote control that I leave on the nightstand, so you can turn them off as soon as someone enters the room
- I understand...
- It's almost time for lunch - said Dr. Klein - the best thing would be for you to come in so you can lie down for a while, and after lunch you can go back out if you want
- Oh... - Clark answered somewhat disappointed.
- After lunch you will have a therapy session with Sean in the gym... - explained Dr Klein - I don't want you to overload your back before that
- Okay I understand
- We'll go right in Dr. Klein - said Martha
- Excellent - Dr. Klein said before turning around and heading into the laboratory.
- Are you okay honey? - Martha asked somewhat worried when she noticed that Clark's mood had changed.
- Yes mom... Let's go - Clark answered, beginning to move his wheelchair towards the entrance - we can go to the cafeteria.first to find something for you
- What a good idea honey.
Lois was walking towards the elevators so she could go back to the newsroom with Perry and Jimmy. She was coming out of the human resources office where she had delivered all the documents signed by Dr. Klein, and had gotten a few days off so she could do the move. After a conversation with the manager, she had also got an agreement... From next week on she should return to work, but only part time, this will give her the possibility to support Clark until he can return to work
- Lois?
- Oh, hello Henderson - Lois greeted the detective - What are you doing here? Something happened?
- Perry told me you were down here - Henderson replied - I need to talk to you ..
- Oh... - Lois replied, assuming what the detective wanted to talk about... She had managed to evade the press and the police for a week, but she knew she couldn't do it forever.
- How have you been? How's Clark doing?
- Fine...As well as he could after what happened - Lois said, - ...Clark won't walk again...
- Oh, Lois... I'm so sorry.
- Thanks Bill - said Lois - what about the robbers? Do you have any clues?
- We haven't caught them yet, I'm sorry - Bill apologized - but we have a few leads that we are following...
- I assume you need my statement - Lois said.
- Yes... Perry and the others present have already given theirs, but for a trial we will need everyone's statement, including you and Clark - Henderson explained - I also have to talk to Dr. Klein
- I know... - Lois replied - ... And the leads that you are following are good? Do you think you will catch them soon?
- I hope so... - answered Bill -... Possibly we would have already caught them if Superman was on Earth and could have helped us... Don't you know when he will return?
- Ehm... No... he didn't say when...
- What a pity... - answered Henderson - ... Can we go somewhere to talk? I have to do other things later
- Oh, sure... Let's go to one of the meeting rooms upstairs - Lois said, approaching to call the elevator - are you going to see Clark today?
- I don't know... If I have time today, yes... Otherwise I'll go tomorrow
- How are you feeling Clark? - asked Dr. Klein upon entering his room after lunch - didn't your back suffer after the exercises and the morning stroll?
- No... The pain hasn't increased - Clark answered from the bed
- Excellent - answered Dr. Klein - I see that you turned on the UV lamps... Have you felt that they help with anything?
- Yes... Not as much as the sun, but they do help - Clark replied
- Marvelous! - replied Dr. Klein happily - in a few minutes Kelly will come to teach you some things and then Sean will take you to the gym for some exercises
- Okay
Sure enough, a few minutes later Kelly walked into the room, ready to teach Clark something new.
- Hello Clark... How was that shower? - Kelly asked - did everything go well?
- Yes, all good... thank you, I enjoyed it a lot
- That's good - Kelly replied - they told me that you had also gone out to get some fresh air
- Yes, I can't stand being locked up here anymore
- Well, in that case you will be pleased to know that what we will practice now is outside in the street
- On the street?
- That's right... we'll practice how you can move on the sidewalk and how to cross streets
- Oh ok . - Clark answered somewhat restless.
Clark wanted to keep practicing and improving so he could go home as soon as possible, but going outside was a new level of acceptance of his new condition. Although he had been contemplating this scenario for days, Clark had clung tightly to the small possibility that his powers could solve everything that had happened. Yesterday's confirmation had brought him back to reality, but it was still all very recent and he was still processing his feelings about it.
- Are you okay honey? - Martha asked when she noticed Clark's face.
- Yeah ...
- If you don't feel comfortable going outside, we can leave this for later and practice something else - suggested Kelly, who apparently had also noticed Clark's concern.
- No... It's okay... - Clark answered. He would have to do it sooner or later, and it was best to start doing it as soon as possible, so he would have more time to feel comfortable.
- Excellent - Kelly answered, bringing the wheelchair closer to the bed - let's go then
- I have to go Perry - said Lois - thanks for lunch guys, but I have to do several things before going home to pack
- Don't worry dear, we understand - Perry said
- Let me know when you already have a date for the move, so I can go help you - Jimmy said - and if you need help packing I can help with that too
- Thank you Jimmy - Lois said with a smile - if I manage to get more cardboard boxes I would really appreciate your help for tomorrow
- Of course I do - answered Jimmy - I'll see if I can bring boxes too
- Thank you Jimmy, you are the best
- I know - Jimmy said with a cheeky smile
After talking with Henderson, Lois had gone to lunch with Perry and Jimmy. During lunch they had talked about various things, especially what had happened and Clark's future, and Lois had told Perry what improvements could be done on the newsroom.
Returning to the daily planet after lunch, Lois had called George, the handyman Perry had recommended. He had said that he could make the remodalations without problem.
She then looked for a truck for the move. After several calls she had managed to get one at a good price.
Ready with the truck and the handyman contacted, she only needed to finalize the signing of the contract to be able to know when the move would be. Everything was going well, and now it was time to go home to start packing.
- I'll see you in a few days - Lois said, taking her bag and heading to the elevator.
Clark was steering his wheelchair towards the entrance of StarLabs so he could go outside, when Dr. Klein and Sean joined the group.
The street where the lab was located was not very busy, cars passed by from time to time and pedestrians were mainly residents of the sector
- We will practice in the street that faces the side of the lab - Kelly said, when they were already approaching the entrance - it is a dead end street, so it will allow us to practice calmly
- Oh... Okay - Clark said.
Martha put her hand on her son's shoulder to show her support, she knew he was making a great effort.
- Well, most of the sidewalks in the city are in very good condition and will be easy to navigate... but as you may have noticed before, not all of them are like that - Kelly said once they were on the street - some sidewalk are bumpy and has some holes
- Ahm, yes.. I've noticed - Clark said, as he moved his chair to keep up with Kelly's pace.
- Over time, when you already have better control with the wheelchair, you will be able to move around without major problems - Kelly said - what we will practice now is how to cross the streets
- Ok... But I don't think it's that difficult - Clark said
- When at the corner the sidewalk has a small ramp to go down to the street, it is not - said Sean
- But there are corners that don't have that little ramp - added Dr. Klein
- Oh... - said Clark, who had just reached the corner, and as Dr. Klein had mentioned, the sidewalk didn't have the small ramp - and how do I cross then?
- If you try to go down front fitst, you will lose your balance and fall face-first to the ground - Sean told him - the safest way is to go down backwards, in reverse
- That's right, when going down in reverse the rear wheels go down first and then the small front wheels - Kelly explained - and as Sean said this will help prevent you from falling to the ground
- The ideal thing is to prevent you from falling to the ground to often in this or other situations, but it will probably happen to you more than once - said Sean, who, seeing the horror on Martha's face, added - the front wheels tend to get stuck in small cracks or holes... And if you don't manage to react in time you will end up on the ground...
- In other words, I can "trip" while in a wheelchair - Clark said
- Yep - Sean replied
- Great ..
- Later we'll see how to get back on the chair if you fall... - Sean told him - ... But we'll leave it for another day
- Well, let's start with today stuff, going up and down the street... - Kelly said - we already talked about the safest way to go down is on your back, although probably in a few more months, when you already have good control from the wheelchair you can learn to go down front fitst whiteout falling, but we won't see it yet... now let's see how to go back up...
- Ok - Clark answered, paying attention
- To go up it is done from the front, first raising the small wheels and resting the rear wheels on the curb, to then give a little impulse and raise the rear wheels - Kelly said - do you understand?
- I think so...
- Don't worry, we'll practice it now - Kelly said - first we'll do it with someone help... First Sean will help you, and then it will be Martha's turn
- Okay...
- Very good Martha, the rear wheels are now lowered, now you need to slowly lets the front wheels touch the ground - Kelly said to Martha, while she guide her during the exercise of going down to the street - excellent!
- Well done mom - Clark congratulates her
- Now let's go back up the sidewalk so that Clark can try it - Kelly said - Very well Martha, the first thing is to lift the front wheels, for that you must step on the pedal that is in the back and maintain Clark's weight ... very good
- Oh! - said Martha trying to keep the wheelchair raised
- Now approach the sidewalk until the rear wheels meet the curb... and now slowly lower the small wheels so that they rest on the sidewalk... - Kelly said, guiding Martha again - now you just have to give a little push to get the rear wheels up
- I did it! - said Martha happily
- That's was great! Very well done Martha - Kelly congratulate her - now it's your turn Clark - Kelly said - don't worry, we'll be here to prevent you from falling
- Okay...
- Well... To go down you must do it slowly... Or you could lose your balance and fall on your back - Kelly explained - ... Don't worry, Sean will be behind you just in case
- Okay...
Clark managed to go down to the street without falling in the process, but with some alarming moments. Getting back up the trail wasn't as easy, especially the part of having to lift the front wheels, so Kelly, Sean, and Dr. Klein decided it was best to do it with help for now. They assured him that it was just a matter of time, practice and having better control of his body and the wheelchair. At the moment the best thing was that someone would help Clark in case he found himself with a path without the mini ramp, but with time it would not be such a big problem.
- That was very good Clark, how are you feeling? Any pain? - asked Dr. Klein.
- I feel fine... I don't think the pain has increased - Clark answered, somewhat disappointed that he couldn't perform the exercises as he would have wanted.
- That's good - replied Dr. Klein, who was already very good at reading Clark's body language, and had noticed his change in mood - we'd better come back so you can lie down for a while before continuing with Sean's exercises, I don't want us to over demand your body
- Oh ok...
Lois was at the supermarket trying to get cardboard boxes when her cell phone rang.
- Hello?
- Hello, this is Mr. Jenkins.
- Hello!
- I was calling to tell you that my lawyer has the contract ready, in case you wants to come and review it
- Oh really? Would be wonderful
- In fact, if you wants, we could sign today and so he could start with all the legal procedures with the bank first thing in the morning.
- Oh! That would be great
- I know you need the house as soon as possible...
- Thank you Mr Jenkins, I'll be there in a few minutes.
- OK see you...
- Are you feeling well honey? - Martha asked.
Clark was back in his room, lying on his bed, enjoying the UV lamps. Kelly and Sean had retired for the time being, and were only accompanied by Dr. Klein
- Yeah... I'm fine
- Clark, I know you're a little disappointed with the last exercises - said Dr. Klein - but keep in mind that you've only been using the wheelchair for a couple of days...
- I know...
- This normally requires several weeks, or months, of practice in some cases - clarified Dr. Klein
- Besides, your powers haven't come back yet - Martha added - you must have a little patience, dear.
- I know... - Clark replied, closing his eyes and covering them with his forearm.
- Clark? - asked Dr. Klein
- I'm fine... Just a headache
- In that case we'll let you rest for a few minutes - said Dr. Klein - I wish I could give you something for the pain, but we know it wouldn't work...
- I know... Thanks anyway - Clark replied.
- I'll leave the UV lamps on, maybe that can help you - said Dr Klein - we'll come back to take you to Sean... If you still feel like it
- Ok... Thanks - Clark replied, without opening his eyes.
- I'll go for a coffee honey - said Martha, leaving the room with Dr. Klein
- He will be fine... He just needs time - Dr. Klein said to Martha after closing the door behind them.
- I know... Thank you Dr. Klein
- Put his signature there... And there... -said Mr. Jenkins' lawyer to Lois - and that's it
- Great! - Lois said
- First thing tomorrow morning I will start all the paperwork - said the lawyer, ordering all the papers that Lois and Mr. Jenkins had just signed - and if all goes well, by afternoon the house will be legally yours
- And by Wednesday morning the house will be vacated so you can start with the remodeling - added Dr. Jenkins
- So soon? - Lois asked in surprise.
- I know that you need to do those renovations... So the sooner, the better - he answered - besides, there isn't much left in the house, only the necessary furniture to be able to show the house to the public, the rest is already in my current house
- Oh thank you very much! - replied Lois standing up - in that case I'll go pack
- Honey, are you awake? How do you feel? - Martha asked as she re-entered Clark's room. It had already been about an hour
- A little better... - Clark answered, opening his eyes - oh... Maybe that's why my head hurt
- Why? What's going on?
- My x-ray vision came back..
- What good news honey! I'll go tell Dr. Klein - said Martha, approaching the door
Martha was about to grab the door handle when the door was opened by Dr. Klein.
- Oh, Dr. Klein! Come in, Clark has something to tell you - Martha said as she closed the door behind him.
- So? What's wrong Clark?
- My x-ray vision is back
- Oh really? That's very good! - said Dr. Klein, taking out his notebook to take notes about it - and do you think it is 100% back or is it coming back little by little?
- Mmm I think little by little, but quite fast - Clark answered, trying to see through the wall.
- Very good! - answered Dr Klein - and your other ocular powers? Has anything else come back?
- No... nothing else
- Ok... It's an advance... - Dr Klein said writing down the last thing in his notebook - apparently the lamps are helping
- I hope so
- Well, do you feel like doing some exercises with Sean? - asked Dr. Klein.
- Yeah, let's go
The truth is that Clark wasn't feeling particularly encouraged about it, but he was making an effort to stay optimistic and focused on getting better soon... So he could get back to his daily routine as soon as possible.
- I'm back! - said Lois as she entered her house, with several cardboard boxes under her arm - I'm sorry for the delay Jonathan
- Oh, don't worry - Jonathan said as he appeared from the kitchen - how did it go?
- Excellent! I already signed the contract for the house... And on Wednesday the handyman will be able to go to remodel the bathroom and kitchen
- So soon?
- Yeah! If we hurry up with the packing we can make the move on the weekend - Lois said excitedly - I still don't know when Clark will be discharged, but the sooner we make the move we will have more time to prepare the house for Clark
- You're right - answered Jonathan - also from Wednesday on we could start carrying some boxes in your car
- It's true... - Lois said - how did John behave?
- Very good as always...
- I'll go see him and I'll came back downstairs to help with the boxes - said Lois, seeing how much Jonathan had done during the day - thanks for taking care of him and for all this
- There's nothing to be thankful for... - Jonathan said - although I think we would finish faster with Martha's help... She's very good at it
- Oh... But Clark would have to stay alone...
- I could stay with him tonight - Jonathan said - Martha has spent many nights sleeping on that sofa
- It's true... - Lois said - I'll see John and then I'll call them
Dr Klein leads Clark and Martha through the corridors of StarLabs to a room that had been converted into a physical therapy gym. There were mats, balls and exercise machines
- Well Clark, I know the last few exercises weren't that easy... - Sean said - ... But as we explained, that's mainly because you still don't have a good handle on the wheelchair.
- Yeah...
- And that is achieved only with practice, time, patience and exercise - said Sean -... Moving the chair requires a lot of muscular effort, so first we must exercise your muscles
- Okay...
Over the next 45 min, Sean had Clark perform various exercises, primarily to strengthen the muscles in his arms and back.
Clark had big muscles, but his super strength hasn't returned yet, so it took him a lot of effort to perform the exercises Sean asked of him.
- Tired?
- Yes... - answered Clark, who was sitting on one of the exercise machines. Yo be honest his bicep was already beginning to hurt
- You were very good Clark - said Sean - we will leave it here and we will resume tomorrow
- Ok... - Clark replied, transferring back to the wheelchair.
Just as they come back to Clark's room, the phone on the nightstand began to ring. Martha hastened to answer
- Hello?
- Martha! I finally find you, I have called several times
- Oh, sorry dear, but we weren't in the room... - Martha said - Clark was in the gym with Sean
- Oh... And how was the afternoon?
- Fine... Do you want to talk to Clark?
- Yes, thanks Martha.
- Hi Lois - Clark said, pressing the lo/speaker button on the phone.
- Hello honey, how was the rest of your day?
- Well... - answered Clark, not very enthusiastic - and yours?
- First I went to the Daily Planet, where I met Henderson... they haven't caught the assailants yet, but he said they're following a lead... So they need your statement to be able to press charges
- Oh... Ok, although I don't remember much...
- I told him that... but you know how judges are... It wouldn't be good if they were released for "lack of evidence"
- Yes you're right ...
- After that I met with Mr. Jenkins... I already signed the house contract!... And from Wednesday on it will be unoccupied
- Oh, how fast... - Clark said.
- Yes... With Jonathan we already started to pack some things... But he thinks we need Martha's help
- Oh, yeah... Mom's really good at that - Clark replied, looking at his mother with a smile.
- I was calling to see if Martha could come home to help me...
- Of course, dear - Martha said
- Thanks... Jonathan is going to stay with you then.
- That's not necessary - Clark said.
- What thing?
- Dad don't need to come...
- Oh, of course, Clark... I don't want you to be left alone.
- Honey... - Marths said.
- I can stay alone for a few nights without problem Lois - Clark replied - besides that sofa must not be comfortable mom...
- But Clark
- Anne and Julie will be here... I'll be fine...
- You're sure? - Lois asked.
- Yes... And you don't need to be here all day with me - Clark said - I know there's a lot to do...
- Clark...
- Okay... But we'll visit you every day - Lois said.
- I'll be looking forward to seeing you - Clark replied.
- I'll get ready to go out then - Martha said, gathering her things to go home.
- Clark, has Dr. Klein told you abything about when he will discharge you? - Lois asked.
- No... We haven't talked about that...
- Oh... Ok... - Lois said - my idea is to be able to move on Saturday...
- I'll tell him... - Clark said.
- I have to go... John woke up - Lois said, while the baby's crying was heard in the background - Jonathan took care of him all day, it's my turn...
- Ok... See you tomorrow then - Clark said
- Of course, honey - Lois said before hanging up.
- Are you sure you'll be fine by yourself? - Martha told him
- Yes mom, don't worry... - Clark said - they'll bring dinner soon... I won't move from this bed until tomorrow... And if I need to go to the bathroom I can call Anne or Julie
- Even so, I don't like the idea of leaving you alone - Martha answered anguished
- I'll be fine... You have to go help Lois and dad.
- It's okay... But I don't want you to overexert yourself with the exercises, take it easy... ok?
- I will mom
As soon as Martha left the room, Clark began to doubt his decision... Would it really be a good idea to stay alone? He knew that he could ask Anne and Julie for help if necessary, but being alone meant having a lot of time to think... And that could end in all his pessimistic thoughts coming to light... Clark honestly didn't want that, In fact, he was a little afraid of that scenario... He was afraid that the negative thoughts would overwhelm him and he would lose the desire to continue practicing to return to his routine...
- Maybe it's not such a bad idea to talk to a psychologist...-he said to himself, before turning on the TV to be able to be distracted by it
.
WretchedHandsSJS : until Sunday morning, Clark's invulnerability still hasn't returned…so either Julie or Anne would help him shave. from now on he will have to wait until his heat vision returns