Never been so happy for that.
MILLER
I’m saving thatfor later.
ME
I need to get back to the girls. Love you, Mills.
MILLER
Love you too, Gabbadoodledoo.
“How’s Chase?” Taylor asks leaning her head on my shoulder.
“Mills said he broke down a bit when he got there but that’s he’s fine now. I hate putting him through this.”
“You’re not putting him through anything. You didn’t cause this. It happens. We’re here because we love you and want to be there to support you no matter what,” Taylor assures me. As someone who never wants to be a burden, this is a new feeling for me. Letting people support me and be there for me. Sharing my troubles and letting them sit with me in the hard times. It’s not something I’m used to. In the past I’ve white-knuckled my way through and hoped for the best. That’s not how it should be. We’re a family. We lean on each other. I’d do the same for them so it’s time I listen when they say they’ve got me.
“Thank you for being here. I love you girls.”
“We love you too.”
“Love you big, G. Should we get some ice on that boob or what?” Taylor leans back and looks down at my breast, breaking the tension as only she can. The rest of the night passes in shared laughter and I know no matter what happens, I’ll be okay with them by my side.
If I thought the pain was bad last night after the numbness wore off, it’s nothing for how it feels today. Chase all but demanded I sleep in this morning to recover from the stress of yesterday, but I finally convinced him to let me move downstairs where I’m currently snuggled under my oversized fleece blanket and propped up by the pillows.
PRESTON
How are you feeling today, Gabs?
ME
I’m feeling horribly.
MILLER
What’s wrong?
ME
Tired, it hurts, headache, garbage.
IVORY
Better or worse than last night?
TAYLOR
Is it still bleeding?
ME
A little. It hurts so bad.
CHASE
She’s bruised and sore but otherwise okay.
