Deep in the Woods (Undergoing Construction)

Chapter 22

"Are you suppose to keep it elevated?" Derek asked.

"I don't know..." I shrugged.

"Maybe you should." He suggested.

"Worth a shot," I lifted my leg onto the table, and put the icebag back on it.

"Does it feel better?" Derek looked over at my red ankle.

"I just moved it. Give me some time." I huffed.

"I don't know how your body works," he defended himself.

I rolled my eyes at him and didn't respond.

He sat to my right, looking over my shoulder to my swollen ankle. Our shoulders were touching, and I would bet he did that intentionally. We sat there not talking, but it wasn't awkward.

"How about now?" He asked five minutes later.

"You're so annoying!" I complained.

"Sorry for caring about you," he chuckled.

"Yes, I think it feels better." I sighed.

"Told you it would," he smirked.

"I'm going back to gym," I announced.

I slid off the table and almost toppled over. I reached out and grabbed the sturdy metal to catch myself.

I heard Derek's soft laugh as he hopped off too.

I put the back of ice into the sink, and hobbled towards the door.

"Here," Derek said and ran forward to open the door. Once we were both through, he shut it and came over to support my weight.

Slowly but surely, we made our way towards the gym.

"This would be quicker if you would let me carry you," he sighed.

"Maybe," I shrugged.

"So can I?" He raised an eyebrow.

"Nope," I said.

"Why?" He complained.

"Slow and steady wins the race," I countered.

"Please?" He asked again.

"No Derek, I'm fine with walking thank-you very much!" I said.

"I was only asking to be polite..." And with that, he swept me off my feet and into his arms.

"Derek!" I groaned.

"Yeah Babe?" He said innocently.

"I don't enjoy this. And don't call me that!" I frowned.

He chuckled in response, but didn't put me down.

"I feel like a little kid," I whined again.

"You can call me Daddy," he winked.

"Derek! You're gross!" I hit his shoulder, which only made him laugh harder.

***

When we reached the gym, Derek finally put me down. His arm was still around me, but at least I was on my own two feet.

"Derek?" Mr. Walkins said as we walked in together.

"Sir," Derek nodded respectfully. He didn't stop walking, and led me to the indoor bleachers.

"Thank-you for bringing her back, but you can leave now." The teacher said.

"Sorry Sir, but I can't," Derek shook his head lightly.