**Her Rise 356: Comfort**
1
Athena methodically stored away her equipment, the rhythmic clatter of her tools echoing softly in the sterile room. As she finished, a nurse approached her with a knowing look. “Dr. Hall, you just treated a patient. You need to fill out a treatment form.”
“Okay, got it,” Athena replied, her voice steady but her mind already elsewhere.
She had intended to seek out Zaden and Teri, her heart eager to reconnect with them after the stressful day. However, duty called, and she knew she had to complete the necessary paperwork first. The protocols of the hospital were etched into her mind, and she wouldn’t dare bypass them.
Settling down at the computer, Athena began typing, her fingers dancing across the keys as she documented Teri’s injuries, the treatments she had administered, and the medications prescribed. Each detail was crucial, and she focused intently, ensuring everything was accurate.
Then, her eyes caught the blood type listed on the screen.
B?
Teri shares the same blood type as me? What a strange twist of fate! A warm smile crept across Athena’s face as she pondered the significance of this coincidence. Perhaps that was why she felt such an innate connection to Teri, as if they were bonded by more than just circumstance. Maybe it was because they were “kind of the same.”
Lost in her thoughts, Athena found herself grinning at the screen, the world around her fading momentarily. With a renewed sense of purpose, she hastily wrapped up the paperwork, her heart fluttering at the thought of reuniting with Zaden and Teri.
Upon exiting the office, she made her way toward Zaden’s location. As she approached, she caught sight of the homeroom teacher, visibly distressed, expressing apologies and assuring everyone that a thorough investigation into the incident would take place.
Teri was nearby, happily playing with a group of other children, their laughter ringing out like music. Parents stood around, their expressions a mix of concern and relief, watching the scene unfold.
It certainly appeared to be an accident, yet the nagging doubt lingered—was there something more sinister at play? The only way to ensure the safety of the children was to investigate thoroughly.
Zaden’s gaze met hers, and he walked over, his face a mixture of relief and worry. “How’s Teri doing?” Athena inquired, her voice filled with warmth.
“She’s okay. She said Mommy’s stitches didn’t hurt at all,” Zaden replied, a hint of pride in his tone.
Athena couldn’t suppress her smile. Teri truly was a little angel, resilient and brave beyond her years.
Zaden’s expression shifted slightly, revealing his underlying concern. “Teri’s going to stay home to recover. But the cut is on her head. I’m not sure how to manage the aftercare. What should we do?”
Athena immediately grasped the implication behind his words.
1/3
A smirk tugged at her lips as she thought, Nice try! You’re cleverly trying to get me to come home and take care of her. Using Teri as your excuse, huh?
But could she honestly say no?
Of course not!
With a resigned sigh, she replied, “Okay, I’ll move back in today and take good care of Teri.”
All her previous reservations melted away, leaving only the desire to help.

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