The news was encouraging. Not only was Zachary not deteriorating, but he seemed to be a little stronger. The doctors would try removing him from the ventilator in the morning and encouraged Leo and Julian not to visit until that had been done. “I don’t understand,” Julian said. “It’s because it’s a little distressing for the patient and those watching,” Leo said. “It’s all normal, I assure you.” Julian didn’t want to get to the point where this kind of thing was normal. “How long are you going to stay?” he asked. “As long as Zachary needs me—though I may have to have some things sent to me from my home, and buy some more clothes. I packed in something of a hurry.” For the first time, Julian dared to think about what came next. Zachary had a broken leg, among many other injuries. He’d be on crutches at the very least—but that apartment of his wasn’t in a very disabled friendly building. And what about Leo? Would he live there too? Would Zachary need a nurse?
