Chapter 4: The First Step
The rehabilitation center smelled of mint and clean linens. Maya sat on the edge of the parallel bars, looking terrified at the shiny hardwood floor.
""We go at your pace, Maya,"" said Sarah, a physical therapist with a warm, encouraging smile.
Arthur sat on a low bench at the end of the bars, holding out his open hands. ""Just focus on me, kiddo. One inch at a time.""
Maya took a deep breath. She placed her hands on the cold metal bars and pushed. Her legs wobbled violently, her muscles screaming against years of disuse.
""It hurts,"" she whimpered, tears forming in her eyes.
May you like
""I know it does,"" Arthur said softly. ""But this hurt means your body is waking up. It means you’re winning.""
Maya bit her lip, fixed her gaze on her uncle, and dragged her right foot forward two inches. It wasn't a graceful step, but it was real.
