He asked one thing of me in exchange for the secret.

“Don’t investigate anyone.

Don’t play the spy,” he said.

“Just keep my progress to yourself.”

Only three people knew the full truth of it: his physical therapist, Justin; his physician; and his corporate attorney.

And the progress was not a straight line — some days he could flex the foot and lift the toes, and some days the nerves went quiet and gave him nothing at all.

He still could not stand or walk without being fully supported.