He then helped me walk back out to the room where I was presented with a walking frame, replete with a rest seat. The therapist explained to me how to...move with the frame and assigned me a brisk (hah!) walk around the square loop of corridor outside my room after each meal for the next few days. It took me thirty-five minutes with seven rest breaks the first time, but by the third day I was down to fifteen minutes with only one break. My joints were still stiff, but hurt less as the days went. I’m so silly, I should have knocked, I —‘ She was floundering and humiliated, and I realized the only words that could save the moment had to be humorous. ‘Hell Nicola, I’ve ordered coffee and Room Service sends up you instead. What’s this joint coming to?’ I cracked. ‘The coffee machine’s in that overblown butler’s pantry. I need a double long black, and you’d better get something for yourself while you’re at it.’ I smiled at her. ‘I know it’s your first executive retreat — but how many. In a few moments, the door will open again. I think Mike has just got theprocedure done, now he needs to work on the virtual reality software."Steve then grabbed the crystal, the door closed, and I licked my lips inanticipation. This would be the last time this MAU is used. The 48 hourperiod is almost up.After Steve exited the MAU, he shook his head. "Nothing happened." Of course not silly, it's still in development." I replied. "Now howabout we start making some lefse?" Yes, let's get started.. He was standing at attention. Quick learner, I thought."At ease," I commanded. He shifted his eyes to look at me but kept his head straight."I don't know what that is," he said."What did you say?" I was in his face again, watching him shake in fright."I don't know what that is, Sir," he said. I demonstrated how to spread your feet, lock your hands behind your back and to relax as much as possible, staying alert for the next order. "Attention, double-time, march," I commanded and we took off.