Free I’ll Be There by Samantha Chase Page A

a great session,” he said.
    â€œThat’s wonderful. How do you think he’s doing?” she asked, concern lacing her tone.
    â€œI think he still has a long way to go but if he continues on the path we mapped out today, he’ll start seeing a big improvement relatively soon.”
    Gabriella’s eyes went wide. “Really? How can you be so sure?”
    â€œI’ve been doing this for a long time, so I can say that a lot of a patient’s recovery has to do with their attitude. Zach and I actually spent a large part of our time today just talking and getting to know one another. I know his expectations and he knows mine. Now we’re free to get started.”
    She almost started to cry with relief—and surprise—and had to wipe away an errant tear. “So…so how is this going to work? How often will you be here? Is there anything I can do to help?”
    â€œTwice a day to start with. Zach requested I come first thing in the morning, so the session shouldn’t interfere with your work schedule. Then I’ll come back later in the afternoon when you’re getting ready to head out. This way each of us can focus on the part we’re here for.”
    â€œI…I just can’t believe he’s really agreed to this. Everyone has been hoping and praying he’d engage but…” She couldn’t help but let the bubble of excitement come out in the form of a giggle. “You’re like some sort of miracle worker!”
    â€œWell…don’t go getting all excited yet. I think we’re off to a good start but you need to be prepared for good days and bad days. There may be times you show up here after we’ve done a session and he’s going to be too exhausted to work, or I may need to come earlier in the afternoon and interrupt your work day. Are you okay with that?”
    â€œPlease, whatever it takes to make sure Zach recovers and is happy again, I’m on board with it. You just need to let me know if there’s anything I can do to assist you.”
    â€œJust…be patient with him,” Alex said and then excused himself to put his equipment in his car.
    Gabriella was positively giddy. But as happy as she was, she knew she needed to tone it down once Zach came into the room. She didn’t want to overwhelm him or offer him the opportunity to argue with her about being nosy over his time with Alex. She walked into the kitchen and poured herself a glass of water and placed one for Zach on the coffee table.
    When she turned around, Alex was right behind her. “Oh! I didn’t hear you come back in,” she said, her hand over her heart.
    â€œSorry,” he said as he reached into his pocket and pulled out his business card. “Here’s my number. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to call me.”
    â€œThank you.” She took the card from him but didn’t have a pocket to put it in. “I appreciate you giving me the option. I want to make sure I’m helping in any way I can.”
    â€œZach’s lucky to have you.” He smiled at her.
    â€œIsn’t this cozy,” Zach said as he walked into the room slowly, aided by his crutches. “I believe you’re being paid to work here, Gabriella, not stand there and flirt with my therapist.”
    â€œZach…seriously, man…” Alex interrupted.
    â€œIt’s okay,” Gabriella said and smiled at Alex. “Thank you for your time.” She turned and walked over to her purse, put his business card away, and busied herself until she heard the front door close. Slowly counting to ten, she waited before turning around and facing Zach as if he hadn’t just insulted her in front of Alex. “Which would you like to look at first—the video of the office space or the rest of the contracts for legal?”
    Zach stared at her as he made his way over to the couch, but once he was settled he