The Sleeper

[Hyacinth]

Blake looks tired.

Not the tired of needing a bit more sleep or just waking up, but the bone tired of several nights without true rest mixed with heartache.

"Cindy," she smiles as she recognizes me, her whole face brightening with relief, "Oh thank the goddess you are here!"

And then she starts to cry.

Rushing forward, I pull her into my arms. She holds me back, squeezing. I fight not to start crying myself, but fail as a tear rolls down my cheek. I am so happy to see her safe but upset seeing her so weak. Her pregnancy was already taxing her body, and now with whatever happened to her while I was gone, she is stuck in this bed for the remainder of it.

I know it wasn't my fault that I was forced to leave, but it doesn't keep me from feeling like a terrible doctor and an even worse friend. Her husband should have been fleeing with her and their pup, not coming back to save me and mine.

And yet she doesn't show the smallest sign of anger or jealousy. The only emotions