Chapter 39: Morning Care.

The morning sun cast a gentle glow over the farm as Eli carefully checked Ava’s stitches. Despite her attempts at humor, he could see the pain in her eyes as she tried not to flinch.

"Why won’t you wear the sling?" he asked, raising an eyebrow even though he knew the answer.

Ava grinned, a spark of defiance in her gaze. "I'm here to relax, not look like a walking injury report."

Eli chuckled, shaking his head. Just then, his mother, Martha, entered with a tray of freshly brewed tea. She paused, her gaze softening as she took in Ava’s bruised and bandaged form. She let out a warm, knowing sigh.

“Well, this tea alone won’t do the trick,” she murmured, placing the tray on the table before calling over her shoulder, “James! Get the herbs!”

Ava, a little embarrassed, looked at Eli. “Is she alright?”

Eli smiled, amused. “Oh, she’s fine. But once she’s decided to take care of you, there’s no stopping her.”

Ava let out a soft laugh, one that was part gratitude, part surprise. “Your family’s… lovely, Eli. You can tell they’re proud of you.”

Just then, Martha returned, offering Ava a cup of herbal tea infused with her special blend. “Here you go, dear,” she said, a motherly warmth in her gaze. “This will help with the healing.”

With a grateful nod, Ava took a sip, savoring the earthy taste. Afterward, she made her way to the garden, settling into a wicker chair nestled among the wildflowers. She tilted her face toward the sun, letting its warmth ease her aching muscles and dull the persistent throb of her injuries. The peacefulness of the farm wrapped around her, quieting her thoughts.

Inside, Eli and Martha watched from the kitchen window, a gentle smile on each of their faces. Martha leaned her head on her son’s shoulder, her gaze soft as she took in the sight of Ava relaxing in the sunlight.

“She’s got a good heart,” Martha said quietly. “And I can see why you’re drawn to her, Eli. But… make sure she knows how you feel.”

Eli gave a shy smile, his cheeks turning slightly pink. “I’m not exactly subtle, Mum,” he said, glancing at her.

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“Oh, you’re more like your father than you know,” she said with a gentle laugh. “Just make sure she hears it, okay?”

Eli’s gaze returned to Ava, his eyes filled with affection and a hint of hope. “Yeah. I will.”

Outside, young Emily approached Ava, her small steps tentative as she clutched a sketchbook to her chest. “Ava, can I ask you something?”

Ava looked over and smiled, patting the seat beside her. “Of course, Emily. What’s on your mind?”

Emily settled in next to her, swinging her legs as she glanced up shyly. “How did you get so brave? I’m scared of lots of things, but you… you don’t seem scared of anything.”

Ava’s face softened as she thought about the question. “Emily, everyone gets scared. Even me. Being brave isn’t about not being scared—it’s about doing what needs to be done, even if you’re scared.”

Emily’s eyes grew wide. “So… you get scared too?”

Ava nodded. “Yes. But having people I care about, like Eli, helps me push through.”

Emily leaned against Ava, comforted. “I want to be brave like you someday.”

Ava smiled and gently wrapped an arm around her. “You’re already brave, Emily. Bravery comes in all shapes and sizes.”

Emily hesitated, glancing at Ava’s bruises. “What happened to you, Ava? Did you fight a monster?”

Ava chuckled. “Not quite a monster, but close. Sometimes I get hurt when I’m protecting others.”

Emily reached out and gently touched one of the bandages. “I think you’re the bravest person I know.”

Inside, Martha and Eli exchanged a smile, touched by the scene. Martha whispered to Eli, “See, she’s more than what she does. You chose well, son.”

Eli’s eyes glistened slightly as he nodded, taking in the sight of Ava, battered but gentle, comforting his little sister.

A moment later, Eli and his mother came out to join them in the garden. As they walked over, Martha brought a warm blanket, draping it over Ava’s shoulders with a motherly touch.

Emily, still leaning against Ava, looked up at her eagerly. “Can you tell me a story, Ava? One of your adventures?”

Ava’s face brightened, her eyes twinkling with amusement. “Alright, how about the time Talon and I had to sneak into a bandit camp?”

Emily gasped in delight, her eyes wide. “Yes, please!”

As Ava recounted the tale, the intensity of the mission, the close calls, and the wild escape, her voice grew animated, painting vivid pictures of the adventure. Eli and Martha listened, their smiles growing as they saw Ava come alive, sharing pieces of herself without hesitation.

As the story wound down, Ava’s strength began to fade. Eli noticed her eyelids drooping and leaned over, speaking softly. “How about a nap, Ava?”

Ava nodded, a sleepy smile tugging at her lips. “Yeah, that sounds good.”

Martha returned with another blanket, tucking it around her shoulders. Emily snuggled close, resting her head on Ava’s arm. “Thank you for the story,” she whispered, her own eyes drifting closed.

“Anytime, little one,” Ava murmured, her gaze warm as she watched Emily drift off.

As Ava’s own eyes began to close, Eli and Martha shared a quiet moment, their gaze lingering on Ava. This unexpected moment of calm and connection with Eli’s family felt grounding, a peace she didn’t often let herself find. With the warmth of family and friendship surrounding her, Ava finally allowed herself to let go, drifting into a peaceful sleep.