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I chuckled at him. Now that he had the love of his life by his side, Leo wanted all of us to be happy as well. Happy men were loyal men. “Were you able to get Willow some clothing?”
“I think so. She’s a similar height to Hazel.”
“She is but she’s too skinny. They were starving her. Her skin is bruised and injured, so long as it’s soft clothing.”
“How about a couple of sweatshirts and leggings? Hazel swears they are the most comfortable clothing ever made. You know, Hazel is particularly fond of my sweatshirts. I just happened to grab one or two of yours.”
I smirked at my cousin. “Just happened huh? Well, it’s a good thing chance was on my side because that is perfect. Thank you.”
“I’ll let you help her order personal items.”
“With all of her injuries, loose-fitting clothing is best for a time, at least until she is in less pain. Here are some pain meds and her antibiotics. When she ripped out the IV, she bruised up the vein. Her other arm is too bruised. I could put it in her arm but I was concerned she would feel restrained and I didn’t want to trigger another episode.” Dr. Leonides was a good man. I knew he’d continue to take great care of my angel.
“Will the pills be strong enough?” I asked as I looked down at the pill bottles he handed me.
He nodded as he explained, “She had nearly twenty-four hours of antibiotics via the IV. They’ll be fine. Call me if you need me.”
“Thank you, doc.”
“I’ll see you out, doctor. Dante come to see me when you can,” Leo ordered as he placed a pile of clothes on the bed.
I nodded as I decided to check on Willow. Approaching the door quietly, I smiled to myself as I heard her softly humming to herself. She felt safe and relaxed. The joy filling my soul was immeasurable.
“Dante?” Her small voice tentatively called out.
Hurrying back to the bathroom door, I asked, without opening it, “Hey, amore, did you need anything?”
“I-I need your help, please?”
“Can I come in?” I asked. I knew that continually putting the power and control in her hands would add to the feeling of safety.
“Yes.”
Opening the door and making sure to only look at her face. “How can I help you, angel?”
“Umm… I can’t wash my back. I don’t know what to use on my hair.” I watched as she held a long piece of hair in front of her face. It looked almost red in color. I couldn’t wait to see the beautiful color hiding under all that dirt and grime.
Getting down to my knees, I picked up the loofah and put some soap on it while she leaned forward, and wrapped her arms around her knees, her eyes always watching me. “How does the rest of your skin feel?” I asked her softly.
“So good. I washed it three times in the shower.”
As I gently started to wash the dirt and grime off her back, I froze when I felt her lean her head on my arm that I used as support against the tub. I looked down and saw that her eyes were closed as she relaxed. I continued washing her back with a smile on my face.
“Dante?”
“Yes, amore?”
“I’m sorry to be such a burden.”
“Willow, you aren’t a bother to me or to anyone. I just want you to feel safe. You are so special to me already, and when I see you smile or feel you relax with me, you bring so much joy to my heart.” I took a chance and placed a soft kiss on her forehead. The happy sigh she released made me smile.
“Now, your back is looking all pink and shiny. Do you want me to help with your hair?”
She nodded without opening her eyes.
“Leo brought some soft clean clothes for you to wear. They’ll be gentle on your skin and be clean.”
She opened her eyes. “Thank you,” she whispered softly.
