Page 59 of Trapped

“Easy for you to say,” I muttered, fiddling with the hem of my sweater. “You’re not the one being poked and prodded.”

“It’s for your own good. I want you healthy.”

The door opened, and Dr. Moretti entered, clipboard in hand. He greeted us with a polite nod.

“Delilah,” he began, glancing at the notes. “I’ve reviewed your bloodwork and some of the preliminary tests.”

My stomach twisted. “And?”

Dr. Moretti looked at me, then at Santino, before settling his gaze back on me. “Your liver enzymes are elevated, which is typical for someone who’s been drinking heavily. There’s no immediate damage, but it’s a warning sign. Your body’s under a lot of stress, and we must address this before it becomes a serious issue.”

The doctor’s expression darkened. “Detoxing can be dangerous. We need to manage it to avoid withdrawal symptoms. We’ll gradually reduce your intake over the next few days. It’s safer than stopping abruptly, which can cause seizures.”

A shiver ran through me at the thought.

“We’ll monitor you closely,” he assured me. “I’ll prescribe medications to help.”

Santino’s hand found mine, his grip warm.

“Hydration will be key. Drink plenty of water, and avoid caffeine and sugar, which can make the withdrawal worse. Eat balanced meals. Your body will need the nutrients to recover.”

I nodded. I’d gone through this before. “And what about… when I feel like I need a drink?”

The doctor’s gaze was sympathetic. “That’s a normal part of recovery. When cravings hit, find something to distract yourself. Go for a walk, call someone, engage in an activity that keeps your mind off it.”

Santino squeezed my hand. “I’ll help you through this.”

Dr. Moretti gave him an approving nod. “Support is crucial.”

I’d never had someone like Santino in my corner. Maybe I could get through it without falling apart.

Dr. Moretti smiled gently. “You’re taking the first step towards a healthier life. It’s not easy, but it’s worth it. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out.”

After a few more instructions and a prescription for medication, Dr. Moretti left the room, leaving Santino and me alone.

I looked down, my fingers twisting in my lap. “I’ve tried to quit before. It never sticks.”

He reached out, lifting my chin so I met his gaze. His eyes were a storm of emotion. “This time will be different.”

“What makes you so sure?”

His thumb brushed over my lower lip, sending a thrill through me. “Because you have me.”

My heart pounded. “But why do you care so much?”

“I need you healthy. Not just for you. For us.”

“Us?”

“Yes. I’ve got plans for us, and they don’t include you drowning in a bottle.”

“A future together?” I asked.

He smiled. “One step at a time. First, you need to take care of yourself.”

My breathing hitched, imagining the future he envisioned. One filled with stability, commitment, and…a baby. My pulse raced. I’d never let anyone get close enough to want that with me, but Santino was different. He made me feel things I didn’t know I was capable of feeling.

I swallowed hard. “I don’t know if I can.”

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