Thirty Six

After the doctor had certified me fit to go home, I was discharged

from the hospital and was beyond grateful to finally be leaving the sterile and antiseptic environment behind. The endless beeping of machines and the smell of disinfectant had left me feeling nauseous.

Leo took my arm, helping me down the stairs and out of the hospital. "I'm so happy you're coming home," he said, his voice filled with excitement. "I missed you so much."

We walked out of the hospital and into the bright sun and Leo's car. I noticed that Leo was not as comfortable as he was acting. He kept scratching his head and seemed to be preoccupied with something.

"What's wrong?" I asked him, concern creeping into my voice.

Leo took a deep breath before he responded. "I don't think your cousin Arielle should be staying with us," he said, a worried look in his eyes. "My brother has his eyes on her and I don't think it's safe for her to be around him."

"What are you suggesting?" I asked him.

"She has to go back,"