Unexpected Love

18. Feelings

It had been a week since court- lucy had been neglecting herself- despite angela's protests. She had been refusing to eat, drink, shower, change clothing and taking her insulin. She hadn't been going to work. Angela was getting more and more worried.

Angela stepped into Lucy's dimly lit bedroom, her heart heavy with worry. The air was stale, carrying the scent of days-old neglect. Lucy lay curled up on her bed, her eyes vacant and distant.

"Lucy," Angela began hesitantly, "are you coming to work today?" The silence stretched on, punctuated only by Lucy's shallow breaths.

Finally, she shook her head slightly, her gaze never leaving the wall in front of her. Angela's stomach twisted at the sight of her usually vibrant partner so broken and defeated.

She sat down carefully on the edge of the bed, her mind racing with thoughts of how to help Lucy. She knew luce needed space to process everything, but she couldn't stand seeing her like this.

"Lucy," she said softly, reaching out to touch her shoulder, "you know I'm here for you, right? Whatever you need, whenever you need it."

Lucy's only response was a small, noncommittal noise. Angela sighed internally, knowing this wasn't going to be easy. But she wouldn't give up on her - not now, not ever.

Angela's heart ached as she watched Lucy's world crumble around her. She knew luce needed a spark, something to reignite the fire that once burned bright within her.

Gathering her courage, Angela gently slid her arms under Lucy's waist and lifted her onto her lap, holding her close. Lucy's body felt fragile, her spirit seemingly fractured beyond repair.

Angela looked deep into Lucy's numb, brown eyes, willing her to see the truth. "Lucy," she said with conviction, "you can't give up now. You won in court, remember? Chris can't hurt you anymore. It's time to start living again."

Her words hung in the air, heavy with emotion. Lucy's eyes welled up with unshed tears, a flicker of understanding crossing her face.

She leaned into Angela's embrace, seeking comfort in the warmth and strength she offered. Angela could feel Lucy's resolve slowly returning, like a delicate flower pushing through concrete. She held her tighter, silently promising to be there for her every step of the way.

Determined to help Lucy regain control of her life, Angela carefully lifted her from the bed, cradling her in her arms. Lucy's head rested against her shoulder, her body limp with exhaustion.

Angela carried her into the bathroom, setting her down on the cool marble countertop with care. She reached into the closet, pulling out a set of fresh silk pajamas.

The soft fabric felt like a caress against her fingertips, and she hoped it would bring some small comfort to her friend. With practiced efficiency, Angela filled the bathtub with steaming water, adding a generous amount of lavender bath salts.

She wanted to create a soothing environment for Lucy, hoping it would help ease some of her pain.

The gentle sound of water cascading from the tap and the calming scent of lavender filled the room as Angela helped Lucy undress, making sure to keep her gaze respectful and supportive.

Once the tub was full, she guided Lucy towards it, helping her in before stepping back to give her some space. "Take your time," she said softly, placing the pajamas on a nearby towel rack.