Heath Bowers

"I got it." I said and lifted my shirt off as carefully as I could and threw it in the fireplace, no use in keeping it now anyway.

I got a bowl of water and warmed it up and got a couple of rags then went back to where he was sitting. I wet one of the rags and started to carefully dab at his cuts and bruises, cleaning the blood off him.

I sighed when I winced a little "Thanks...I didn't mean to sound like a jerk. It's just been a rough day...obviously."

"Yeah, tell me about it." I shook my head. "I can't believe I was so... fucking blind."

"Come on, now. You can't blame yourself for it."

"Oh I don't blame myself for what happened. I just blame myself for not seeing it. He's been so... distant lately. And he's been gone more than normal. I just thought he was working. Stupid huh."

I shook my head "No. I didn't suspect anything either but I guess I should have. The signs were all there."

"I just feel so stupid. I just... I just figured we'd always be together. God I was so wrong."

"I wouldn't worry too much. You're a nice girl, you'll get your happily ever after."

"Not so sure I want that anymore. I've... I've kind of been through enough. I think I'm just better off alone."

"You'll change your mind with time...I know you've had it rough."

"And what makes you think I'll change my mind?"

"Because you're too young to be alone forever."

I shrugged. "I'd rather grow old alone than ever be hurt again." I said and put the rag down. "Let me tape up your ribs and you should be all set."

I nodded as she got some tape she'd found and started wrapping me up "Thanks for helping me."

"You're welcome. I couldn't just leave you. You were all but passed out on the floor."

"I would have gotten up eventually but thanks again."

"Just because you're a guy doesn't mean it's not okay to get help sometimes. And you're welcome, again. I should get home," I said and got up to put the stuff away.

"Here, I'll get all of that. You should get home before it gets any later." I said and moved to get the stuff and put it away. It took a moment but I managed it.

"Will you stop? I've got this. You sit there and rest. And if anyone's out there and tries to get me, I have a gun. I'll be fine."

"Alright, you win." I said and watched her put it all away "Can I get the door for you? Or are you going to be stubborn over that too?" I teased.

"Sit." I smiled at him. "I can open the door for myself Heath, it's not gonna bite me. Thank you for the offer though."

"You're welcome. Try to have a good night, Chelsea."

"I don't see that happening, but I'll try. You should do the same. Good night Heath," I said and left.