Strangers

Back home

2 months later

The moment she stepped through the door of her apartment, a rush of conflicting emotions engulfed her. Relief and anticipation mingled with anxiety and uncertainty, creating a whirlwind of thoughts that swirled in her mind.

The scent of familiarity greeted her, wrapping around her like a comforting blanket. It was a mixture of home-cooked meals, the faint fragrance of her favorite candle, and the subtle hint of her daughter's perfume. Each scent whispered tales of the life she had temporarily left behind, reminding her of the moments she had yearned for during her time in the hospital.

Jenny sat quietly on the couch, engrossed in a book. Her eyes lifted as Taylor entered the room, a mixture of excitement and relief shining in her gaze. It was a look that mirrored Taylor's own emotions, a shared sense of gratitude for being reunited once again

They locked eyes, a silent understanding passing between them, but neither spoke of the depths of their feelings.

"Hey Mom," Jenny said, her voice filled with a mix of joy and concern. "Welcome back"

Taylor offered a gentle smile in response, her heart swelling with affection for her daughter. She walked towards Jenny, closing the distance between them, and lightly embraced her. The hug was brief yet meaningful, a moment of connection that conveyed the unspoken love they shared.

"Finally home, huh?" Taylor replied, her voice laced with a gentle tone. She chose to downplay the challenges she had faced during her time in the hospital, focusing on maintaining a sense of normalcy. It was as if she wanted to believe that everything was exactly as it was before, as if the scars and the struggles could be left behind with the hospital walls.

Abigail stood nearby, wearing a soft smile that radiated her happiness at Taylor's return. She had been a pillar of support throughout Taylor's journey, offering a steady presence and unwavering dedication to their family. Taylor acknowledged her with a nod, silently expressing her gratitude for Abigail's unwavering loyalty.

"It's good to see you again," Abigail said, her voice warm and genuine. "Jenny and I have been hustling and cooking up something nice for dinner, so hurry up."

Taylor's smile widened at the mention of dinner, a small spark of anticipation igniting within her. It had been a while since she had enjoyed a home-cooked meal, and the thought of sharing this simple pleasure with her loved ones brought a sense of warmth to her weary soul.

"Give me twenty minutes to change, and I'd love to try everything," Taylor replied, a playful glint in her eyes. "I'm hungry as a wolf. And yes, Abigail, don't even think about leaving. We're all having dinner together tonight."

Abigail laughed, the sound filling the room with a sense of lightness. It was a sound that Taylor cherished, a reminder of the camaraderie and bond they had formed over the years.

~~~~~~~~~

After the dinner when Jenny retreated to her room, Taylor found herself in the kitchen, reaching for a bottle of wine.

She hesitated for a moment, her usual restraint warring with the desire to let go, even if just for a little while. Today had been such a day, a day that warranted a small indulgence.

Blonde poured the white wine into two glasses, the liquid cascading with a graceful ease. As she held one glass out to Abigail, she couldn't help but notice the slight tremor in her own hand. It was a physical reminder of the scars that still lingered, of the trauma that had shaped her.

"Thank you," Abigail smiled, accepting the glass with gratitude.

"Would you like some ice?" Taylor asked, her voice tinged with a touch of self-consciousness.