Zombies 6

Reality Comes Crashing Down

"Are you saying I'm paralyzed?"

Dr. McCoy nodded. "I'm sorry Zed, but after observing your current ability it appears the damage you sustained is permanent. However, I will make arrangements for you to begin physical therapy. You've been in a coma for six months, it will be good for you to strengthen your muscles and learn to function with your new limitations."

Zed sunk back against his pillow, deflating at the doctor's words. Being paralyzed changed everything. His football career was over, he'd have to learn to function without his legs, and worst of all, he wouldn't be able to be the father he wanted to be to his child. His world was completely turned upside down and he didn't know how to turn it around.

Zed sighed and looked up at the doctor. "Alright, that sounds good."

Dr. McCoy nodded. "Very well, I'll go make the arrangements and we'll leave you two to talk. I know you have a lot of catching up to do."

"Yeah." Zed agreed quietly as he struggled to keep his voice from cracking.

Dr. McCoy and the nurse left the room, the door shutting with a soft click behind them. Silence engulfed the room once more. But this time, Addison didn't let it linger.

"We need to talk."

Zed nodded, avoiding her gaze. "I know."

Addison gave his hand a gentle squeeze. "I've been thinking about baby names. I was hoping you could help me choose one. I've narrowed it down to just two names. The two names I've been thinking about a----"

"Addison." Zed's quiet voice cut her off. "I don't want to discuss this right now."

Addison frowned. "Zed, I'm eight months pregnant. There isn't much time left to discuss it. Plus, I've been waiting six months to be able to have this conversation with you. Can't I at least tell you the names I'm considering?"

Zed closed his eyes and laid back. "I'm tired Addison. We'll figure it out, but right now I just want to rest."

Tears pooled in Addison's eyes, a sign her pregnancy hormones were taking charge. "But Zed----"

"I said not now Addison!" Zed snapped angrily. "Just leave me alone!"

Addison recoiled at his tone, tears streaming down her cheeks as she backed away from the bed. She had waited six months for this moment, but this was not how she imagined it.

"Fine." Addison choked out. "I'm leaving. I hope you're happy."

Zed didn't even bother to open his eyes. Instead, he listened as Addison's footsteps moved away from his bedside then the hospital room door creaked open then slammed shut, leaving him alone.

💔

Addison sobbed as she hurried down the hallway towards the main entrance of the hospital. She knew Zed had just woken up and been given a lot of information to process, but why couldn't he just talk to her?

Addison pushed her way out the front doors only to slam into someone on the other side. She stumbled back, but a strong arm caught her before she could fall.

"Woah, Addison? Are you okay? What's wrong?"

Zevon's calm, fatherly voice filled her ears and she looked up to meet his gaze.

"Z-Zed." Addison choked out.

Zevon's face fell, fearing the worst. "Has something happened? Is he okay?"

Addison sniffled as she tried to wipe away her tears. "I tried to talk to him but he yelled at me and told me to leave. I don't understand why he got so angry with me."