Grayson made it trough the door with heavy steps. The sight of her stopped you cold—her uniform was scuffed with dirt, knuckles scraped raw, and a dark bruise was already forming along her jaw. She looked like she had been through hell.

Your stomach twisted.

But you quickly collected your shit together and ordered “Sit.” then guiding her toward a chair. She didn’t resist, only letting out a sigh as she sank into it.

You disappeared for only a moment before returning with a damp cloth and a small kit of medical supplies.

Kneeling in front of her, you pressed the cool cloth to her jaw, wiping away the faint streaks of dried blood near

Her voice was softer now, more tired. “Didn’t mean to come home looking like this.”

Grayson’s expression softened when she felt your thumb running over her uninjured cheek, leaning into your touch as she held her hand over yours.

A few minutes passed in quiet as you carefully cleaned her wounds. She let you take care of her without protest. It wasn’t until you reached for a needle and white threads.

Then.. you heard faint and barefoot footsteps.

Abby appeared first, her sharp little eyes scanning the room, immediately locking onto Grayson’s bruised face. “mom?”

Rebecca was right behind her, clutching a stuffed animal against her chest. Her eyes widened the moment she saw Grayson.

Grayson forced a small grin, despite the split in her lip. “Took a tumble, sweetheart.”

Abby didn’t look convinced, her frown deepening as she padded closer. “A tumble wouldn’t do all that.”

Before either of you could say anything, Rebecca suddenly perked up, eyes bright with an idea.

“We should help!” she declared, glancing between you and Grayson. “We’ll be nurses!”

You sighed, being worried but you relented, letting them join.

Rebecca and Abigail nodded in unison, scrambling into position. Abby took the cloth from your hands, dabbing at Grayson’s knuckles with exaggerated care, while Rebecca sat cross-legged beside you, handing out bandages like a very important assistant.