There’s a release of pressure, both good and bad, as the bandages unravel from his chest. He feels like he can breathe a little easier, but not everything is set and sturdy yet and he immediately misses the support. He cradles himself slightly with his left arm, right still holding onto the tub for support.

He can’t quite meet Raju’s eye, looking at the corner of the bathroom molding, the angle of the cabinets, the discolored tiling. He doesn’t want to tell him, ‘you already see me as a burden, I’d hate for you to see me as pathetic’, so he mulls over his answer.

“Hanging onto my last ounce of dignity, I suppose. I thought I could manage, but when it became apparent I couldn’t…you’ve already done so much for me, Raju.”