You have beautiful eyes. I can see so much love and kindness in them. They tell a story, too. Youve had a rough life. Taylor was apparently quite intuitive.

You can see all that, just by looking in my eyes?

Yeah.

***

Tina had gone back to bed. But as she was lying down , her movement woke Bette.

Oh, Im sorry. I had to use the bathroom. Go back to bed. Tina felt bad for interrupting her sleep. She knew how hard Bette was working at the CAC, and she also knew that Bette tended to keep her emotions close to herself.

Its okay, T. I was dreaming about you.

You were, were you? Tina blushed. What about me?

I dreamed that we were back together, Bette was still half asleep, and we were so happy. You, me and the kids. We were all at the beach, smiling and laughing and playing. It was the best dream Ive ever had.

Tina let a small tear fall from her face. A few more eased their way out after. That sounds perfect.

Bette smiled, her eyes still closed. Im going to go back to sleep now, so I can finish the dream.

Tina tucked herself under the covers. Ok. Goodnight.

***

Mary started to cry. Shane knew that it would happen. She handed her a box of Kleenex.

I know it must be incredibly hard for you, Mary. I couldnt even begin to imagine how I would deal with this situation myself. But I want to help. In any way possible. Youll let me help her, wont you?

Mary wiped her face. Of course. Youre the only one here. Youre the only one that cares.

Shane took a Kleenex for herself. Im not the only one. You care, and so does my friend Jenny. In fact, Jennys the one who took Case in. If it wasnt for her, I would have never met Case, and God knows where shed be right now.

Shed be dead, thats what shed be. And itd be all my fault.

No, it wouldnt. You made a mistake, Mary. We all do. But you have to let it go, you have to move on and make things right.

I know. I would like to meet this Jenny. I have to thank her for saving my child.

Shes out right now, but Ill make sure to call her first thing tomorrow and ask her to come by the hospital so you two can meet. Youre going to love her, I promise.

***

Can I sleep here tonight? Taylor asked.

Yes, you can stay. Whats wrong? Jenny saw something change in Taylors expression, it made her look worried, and very sad.

I dont want to go home – ever.

Why not?

Because my parents are going through a divorce, and all they do is fight. I cant stand it anymore. Every night I fall asleep to the sound of their screams and insults. I like it here, with you. Its so peaceful.

Hey – Jenny gathered Taylor into her arms. Taylor was starting to cry, but was trying to hide it. She sniffed, hoping it wouldnt show, but Jenny knew she was hurting. You can stay here as long as you want, okay?

Thank you Jenny. For everything.

Taylor rested her head on Jennys shoulder. They both closed their eyes. Sleep came easily.