Comfort

Con immediately gets to his feet, feeling completely helpless. He squats down next to Rosetta, putting an arm around her shoulder, knowing he’s awkward at this kind of thing. “It’s okay, Rosetta…it’s going to be okay… she’ll be alright…”

Mick suddenly appears in the door, skidding to a halt as he sees Con and Rosetta. His face is grim and tight, proving Austin had just spoken to him.

Con looks up and stands, letting Mick take his place. They exchange no words as Con backs off, leaving the two alone. He takes a deep breath as he steps down off the porch, and stuffs his hands in his pockets. Dear Katie…how could something like this have happened to such a sweet girl? It wasn’t fair.

Mick reaches down and pulls Rosetta up out of her chair, drawing her into his strong arms. “Shhh, shh.” He rocks her back and forth, rubbing her back. “It’ll be okay.”



All of Jason’s emotions scream at him as he watches Katie. His heart feels as if it’s being torn from his chest, and it takes all he has not to allow his tears to come back. It was his turn to be the support – he had to be…for her.

“Hey, hey, Katie, shh…” He puts a hand gently on her shoulder to keep her rested on the bed without trying to rise. “It’s going to be alright. You just need to rest right now and not think about anything else, okay?” He bites his lip, forcing another smile to reassure her. “We’re going to take this one step at a time…the future isn’t written yet. You don’t worry about me or anyone else right now….you just focus on what you need, and you need to rest.” Her question of who would want her now cuts him deeply. Suddenly he realizes that if given the chance, he would gladly take her place. He stares her in the eye, a soft sternness forming. “You’re a fighter, Katie, remember that. No matter what happens, no matter if this is permanent or not…you will get through this, and there is a future for you.” He grits his teeth. “And don’t you ever think someone wouldn’t want you, Katie.”


Cindy’s eyes widen just a little. “Mmm…nice restaurant….dressing up…wine…what’s the occasion?” Her eyes twinkle with mischief before she lowers them to her menu again.