Chapter 37 Summary
Tony arrived at City View Medical Center in Austin shortly after 6:30 p.m., eager to see Steven and finally get answers. Before visiting, he stopped at the nurses’ station, introduced himself, and asked what to expect. The nurse explained that Steven’s wrists and ankles had been broken and were now in casts, though his vital signs were stable. The primary concern, she said, was his emotional trauma.
Prepared for the worst, Tony entered Steven’s room and found his friend pale but awake, encased in plaster and struggling to accept what had happened. Tony tried to lighten the mood with a gentle joke, but Steven’s relief at seeing him brought tears instead. Their conversation quickly turned to the attack. Steven couldn’t identify who had assaulted him or why, and Tony promised to ensure that those responsible faced justice.
Steven apologized for not calling anyone, explaining that with both hands in casts, even that was impossible. Tony reassured him that it wasn’t his fault and offered to contact his parents on his behalf. Steven tells Tony he’ll wait until he feels stronger to speak with them directly, fearing his emotions would only upset them further.
Before leaving, Tony suggested that Steven stay with him in Newport once he was discharged, offering a comfortable place to recover and assist with the ongoing work related to their conference. Steven was hesitant, worried about imposing, but Tony dismissed the concern and proposed that, if Steven preferred, he could arrange in-home care instead.
Their conversation then shifted to Steven’s fear of going back to his apartment. Tony promised to help him find a new place and take care of all the arrangements, including the move, before Steven was released. When asked how much he should tell Steven’s parents, Tony agreed to soften the news enough to reassure them without causing unnecessary worry.
Before leaving, Tony arranged for a television to help Steven pass the time, left his contact information with the nurses, and promised to come back in the morning. As he patted Steven’s shoulder and said goodnight, the moment carried a quiet resolve, Tony’s determination to find out who had done this to his friend, and Steven’s gratitude for knowing he wouldn’t face recovery alone.
