Jack's Nurse

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Carly Carmine hurriedly tied the last knot on Jack Atlas's bandages, her brow furrowed in concern. "There, that should hold. You really should be more careful, Jack," she scolded gently, trying to mask her worry with a smile.

Jack shrugged nonchalantly, his expression wincing slightly as he tested the movement of his newly bandaged right arm. "It was just a stupid purse snatcher. Nothing I couldn't handle."

"You say that every time," Carly teased lightly, her fingers lingering on the bandages before pulling away. "You need to let yourself heal properly."

As Carly busied herself in the tiny kitchen of her cozy apartment, Jack sank into the couch with a sigh. "Thanks for patching me up, Carly," he said sincerely, his voice softer than usual. "I appreciate it."

Carly's heart fluttered at his gratitude, her cheeks coloring slightly. "It's the least I could do. You've saved my skin more times than I can count," she replied with a small smile, though inside, her thoughts raced. Jack Atlas, in her apartment, thanking her—was this real?

As Carly prepared lunch, her mind wandered to scenarios she'd never dare admit aloud—Jack and her, sharing meals like this every day, in a place that felt like home. She shook her head, trying to focus on the present. Meanwhile, Jack reclined on the couch, his mind on the task at hand—surviving Carly's cooking. 

Jack sat at Carly's small dining table, staring dubiously at the meal she had prepared. His right arm was securely bandaged, making it impossible for him to use it effectively. Carly watched with amusement as Jack awkwardly attempted to cut his food with his left hand.

"This is hopeless," Jack muttered, his frustration evident.

Carly chuckled softly, leaning over to offer some guidance. "Here, let me show you." She gently took the knife and fork from Jack's grasp, demonstrating how to hold them in his left hand. "It's all about finding the right angle."

Jack watched intently as Carly demonstrated, his expression a mix of amusement and admiration. "I never thought eating could be so challenging," he admitted with a crooked grin.

Carly winked playfully. "Consider it a new skill you're mastering."

With Carly's patient guidance, Jack slowly began to get the hang of it. He managed a few bites with relative success, though some food still ended up on the table rather than in his mouth.

Carly laughed at his attempts, her laughter infectious. "You're doing great, Jack. It's all about practice."

Jack chuckled along with her, enjoying the light-hearted moment despite his injury. "Thanks, Carly. For not only patching me up but also teaching me how to eat again."

Carly smiled warmly, a twinkle in her eye. "Anytime, Jack. Just don't make a mess of my table."

They continued their meal, Jack improving with each bite and Carly providing playful encouragement and occasional assistance. The atmosphere was relaxed and comfortable, a rare moment of peace amid their chaotic lives.

Over lunch, they talked about the day's events—Jack's run-in with the purse snatcher, Carly's latest articles for the newspaper. Carly hung on every word Jack said, her admiration evident in her eyes. Jack, oblivious to Carly's internal fantasies, found himself enjoying the simple meal and the rare moment of peace. However, Jack's phone suddenly rang with Crow Hogan's urgent tone. Carly, who was bustling around the apartment, overheard bits of the conversation and her worry escalated.

Crow's voice grew more insistent as he explained the seriousness of Jack's injury and the necessity of seeking proper medical attention. Carly's concern for Jack bubbled over, and she marched over to Jack with determination.

"Give me that phone," Carly demanded theatrically, snatching it from Jack's hand. She brought the phone to her ear, her expression fierce.

"Crow Hogan, you better take care of him. Don't let him brush this off!" Carly's voice rang with protective fervor, her concern palpable even through the phone.

Jack watched with amusement and gratitude at Carly's sudden assertiveness. He exchanged a knowing glance with her, silently acknowledging her care.

After a few moments of heated discussion, Carly finally relented, handing the phone back to Jack with a huff. "Promise me you'll listen to him," she pleaded, her eyes searching Jack's for reassurance.

Jack nodded solemnly, understanding the seriousness of the situation. "I promise, Carly. I'll go to the hospital."

Carly sighed with relief, her shoulders relaxing slightly. "Good. Don't make me come after you."

Jack chuckled softly, touched by Carly's display of concern. "I won't. Thank you, Carly, for looking out for me."

Carly's cheeks flushed slightly, a mixture of embarrassment and affection. "You're welcome, Jack," she replied softly, a genuine smile spreading across her face.

Before leaving, Jack turned to Carly with a sincere smile. "Thank you, Carly. For everything."

Carly's heart skipped a beat at his words, her cheeks flushing pink. "You're welcome, Jack," she managed to say, her voice barely above a whisper.

As Jack left Carly's apartment, Carly collapsed onto her floor, imaginary steam bellowing from her ears and overwhelmed with a rush of emotions. Jack had thanked her. He had been in her apartment, sharing a meal she made. It felt like a dream—one she never wanted to end.

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