?Easy. Here, hold on to me,? said Ariadne. ?Wow, I can?t believe
how fast you?re healing. But still, you should lie down for a bit
longer.?
She tried to get her to lie back, but Helen stayed perched on the
edge of the bed and took a few breaths.
?I kinda can?t,? she replied, looking up at Ariadne sheepishly.
?Bathroom, huh? Okay,? she titter
ed nervously. ?I?ll carry you.
Just don?t pee on me.?
Helen laughed gratefully. Ariadne was making an embarrassing
situation as humorous as possible so Helen would feel more comfortable.
It was something Claire would have done. Helen was still
embarrassed, but with a few jokes and little bit of tact, they both
made it through.
?Is it all right if I check and see how you?re healing?? Ariadne
asked politely when Helen was settled back in the bed. ?It would
mean that I would have to lay my hands on you, and I want to
make sure you?re okay with that.?
?You just watched me pee,? Helen responded with an embarrassed
laugh. ?So, yeah, I?m okay with a checkup. But wait?is it going
to hurt??
?Not at all. I?m just going to take a peek, not grow cells. That?s
what really hurts you. If it?s any consolation, it?s no picnic for me,
either. So exhausting,? Ariadne said with a smile as she pushed
Helen, making her lie down.
?Okay,? Helen said uncertainly. She rested against the pillows
and waited for the pain that she suspected was soon to follow, despite
Ariadne?s optimistic denial.
100/395
Ariadne put her hands on Helen?s ribs and concentrated. Helen