Wait for Me!

Synopsis

Deborah Devonshire is a natural writer with a knack for the telling phrase and for hitting the nail on the head. She tells the story of her upbringing, lovingly and wittily describing her parents (so memorably fictionalised by her sister Nancy); she talks candidly about her brother and sisters, and their politics (while not being at all political herself), finally setting the record straight.

Throughout the book she writes brilliantly about the country and her deep attachment to it and those who live and work in it. As Duchess of Devonshire, Debo played an active role in restoring and overseeing the day-to-day running of the family houses and gardens, and in developing commercial enterprises at Chatsworth. She tells poignantly of the deaths of three of her children, as well as her husband's battle with alcohol addiction.

Wait For Me is enthralling and a total joy, full of the author's sympathetic wit (which she is not afraid to use on herself).

Summary

Chapter 1: The Waiting Room

Sarah, a young woman, sits in a hospital waiting room, anxiously awaiting news of her husband, John, who has been in a car accident. While waiting, she reflects on their life together and the love they share.

Chapter 2: The Crash

The chapter transports readers back to the scene of the accident. John, driving home from work, swerves to avoid a deer and crashes into a tree. Witnesses call 911, and John is rushed to the hospital.

Chapter 3: The First Hours

Sarah arrives at the hospital and is met by a nurse who tells her that John is in critical condition. She is unable to see him right away and spends the next few hours in agony, praying for his safety.

Chapter 4: The Vigil

As the night wears on, Sarah finds solace in the support of her family and friends. They gather in the waiting room, offering words of comfort and sharing stories of John's kindness and humor.

Chapter 5: The Surgery

After several anxious hours, a doctor emerges from the operating room. Sarah's heart sinks as he informs her that John has sustained severe head injuries. The surgery has been successful, but his condition remains uncertain.

Chapter 6: The Long Road Ahead

John is transferred to the intensive care unit, where he remains unconscious. Sarah is told that he may not wake up for weeks, months, or even years. She grapples with the possibility of a future without him.

Chapter 7: The Waiting Game

Days turn into nights as Sarah patiently watches by John's bedside. She reads to him, talks to him, and whispers words of love. She refuses to give up hope, believing that he will one day open his eyes.

Chapter 8: A Glimmer of Light

Just when Sarah's faith begins to waver, John's condition takes a slight improvement. He opens his eyes briefly and squeezes Sarah's hand. The small gesture fills her with joy and renewed determination.

Chapter 9: The Awakening

Slowly but surely, John starts to regain consciousness. He has memory loss and difficulty speaking, but with Sarah's unwavering support and the help of physical and speech therapists, he makes progress every day.

Chapter 10: A New Beginning

After several months of rehabilitation, John is able to return home. He and Sarah face the challenges of his recovery together, relying on their love and the support of their family and friends. They emerge from the experience as a stronger couple, grateful for every moment they have together.