[Sadrain]

December 5th, Chicago. Base.

Elek's head was full with thoughts, about Amante, his attacker, and what was going between him, Ryan and Alice. It was something he wanted to read, or ask directly, but it would be far too incorrect in countless ways. So, he just paced around the house, sometimes stopping to do few things, but mostly walked. It did not help to think, Elek knew that, but it worked out the excessive energy. Not in enough amount, though. Finally, the man went out, behind the building and began working on the punching bag.

December 6th, Chicago. Base.

The doctor was surprised to find Ryan really ready for his first serious physical therapy. The man had expressed wish for that last night, but the doctor hadn't taken it seriously, because it was quite soon after the operation and recovery from nearly death bed. But, he found it better to not oppose Ryan, who nearly shined in determination. He looked fine and nearly cheerful, although he had spent most of the night, walking around the room and trying to work with his left arm. The medicine, food and good sleep had done good job and it felt very good to be walking again. Indeed, he had been too lenient with the doctors and nurses, who told him to stay in the wheelchair for a while more.

Ryan was taken to another room for the physical therapy. The nurse was very sweet and nice, and although he didn't need encouraging, it was pleasant. The pain had moved down to his wrist and hand now, signalizing that the bone changing was nearing its completion. The shoulder was stiff and did not want to obey his thought often, fingers didn't bend well enough, but it was all just a passing problem. Though of punching Amante certainly gave him strength and determination.

After few hours of workout, he washed, changed in fresh clothes and stopped by Alice's room. Much to his displeasure, Amante was there. So, he just bid them greeting and left. Not too long after, he was chatting it up casually with the nurse from physical therapy. She had dark eyes, that sparkled with good humor, and for a change, the woman laughed at his jokes. He was not jealous, or so Ryan tried to tell him self, so, why not spend time with other people? He was not item Alice owned, that he was tied to her bedside. Nor the other way around, as she clearly showed.

Ryan didn't want to own Alice, though. He just wanted to belong somewhere. Alice had given him that feeling for a while, but she had her own life, which was natural. He could not stay by her side like a watchdog forever. He had to find a place of his own within this base, make new goals and plans. Maybe Alice soon would not have time for him at all, soon.