It had been over an hour since she messaged Aaron back. That was probably enough time to message him again. 

Kassie Harris: What are you working on today?

She hit send as Mel’s name was called. The nurse gave them a curious glance before leading them to the back. She took Mel’s vitals before leaving them in a room with a paper-thin gown and some privacy. 

“You want me to stay with you?” Kassie checked as Mel undressed and folded her clothes up neatly. 

“Like you have somewhere better to be.” She slipped the gown on and stood before Kassie, motioning to her open back so Kassie could tie it. 

The next hour was stressful. Kassie could see the toll it was taking on Mel. The Dr. was a pleasant older lady, but it didn’t make the physical exam any easier. There was no sign of trauma, but Mel shared that she was sure the sex was unprotected. The Dr. wasn't that concerned about pregnancy since Mel’s birth control implant was effective at preventing it, but Mel insisted on taking an emergency contraception. After blood tests and swabs, all that was left was to go home and wait for the results. 

Mel seemed lighter on the way back to Kassie’s house. Her posture wasn’t as rigid as it was. She was relaxed in the passenger seat, singing along with the music. After a couple of songs,  Mel reached across and held Kassie’s hand. She gave it a firm squeeze. 

“I love you, Kass.”

Kassie squeezed back. “ I love you too, Mel.”

****

Mel was in a much better headspace the next morning. She even got up and did a quick jog followed by some yoga. Kassie didn’t join her for the run but did stretch with her after. While Mel was out running, Kassie got her beads out and started working on a friendship bracelet for Derek. 

She was actively ignoring Aaron's silence. When the sun came up, she planned on writing him a good morning message. In the meantime, she focused on making Derek an obnoxious bracelet. She picked out small pink and purple beads with a glimmer. She used irradiance letter beads to spell D + K, with heart beads beside each of their initials. It was childish and gaudy. It was perfect.