Contents
Chapter 61
Overview
On her final rehab day, Charly prepares for cranioplasty with a polymethyl methacrylate implant and plans to return home afterward. She secures nearly $3 million to fund care, receives encouragement from Dr. Greenberg and staff, and, despite Jamie’s absence, gets flowers and a supportive note that renew her hope.
Summary
Six and a half months after the shooting, Charly spends her last day in rehab, anxious about tomorrow’s transfer for a cranioplasty to close her skull defect with polymethyl methacrylate. Staff and her mother celebrate with cupcakes, and even Valerie offers unexpected warmth.
Charly outlines the immediate plan: a short acute hospital stay after surgery and then discharge home. With a lawyer recommended earlier by Bridget, she and her mother locate close to three million dollars in offshore accounts, enough to fund home care and give her space to recover. She is relieved Clark never accessed the money.
Charly thinks about Jamie’s earlier confession of love and her decision to turn him down, assuming he will move on. She admits lingering feelings but prioritizes her recovery and uncertainty about future relationships.
Dr. Greenberg visits to reassure her, explaining that restoring a skull will relieve constant atmospheric pressure on her brain and might aid recovery. He jokes about future hair transplants, and they part on a hopeful note.
Before leaving, Dr. Greenberg delivers a flower basket. Charly discovers Jamie’s handwritten card wishing her luck and saying he can’t wait to see her hair, ending the day with renewed hope despite her fear.
Who Appears
- Charly McKennaProtagonist; ends rehab, prepares for cranioplasty, secures funds for home care, reflects on Jamie and future.
- Dr. GreenbergRehab physician; reassures Charly about surgery, explains benefits, shares lighthearted farewell.
- JamieFriend and protector; absent but sends flowers and a supportive card about her hair.
- Charly’s motherBrings cupcakes, contacts lawyer, helps secure funds to support Charly’s return home.
- ValerieRehab staff member; offers a hug and encouragement on Charly’s last day.