Katie's sobs didn't ease, even as Nick held her close, his hand stroking her back in gentle circles. He crouched lower to help Georgia to her feet, steadying her carefully. Just as he reached for his pocket to offer her a handkerchief, the unexpected happened.
"Come inside," the woman's voice rang out, firm yet filled with concern. "You'd better wash that wound with water before it gets infected. I'd feel guilty as hell if it got worse just because I turned you away."
Katie's tears came harder at that, her little voice breaking with panic. "Will my aunt die? WAAAH!"
The woman's face contorted, as though she was fighting to keep a straight expression, her laughter threatening to break free. Georgia and Nick weren't immune either—the corners of their lips twitched despite the situation.
The woman gently patted Katie's back. "No, sweetheart, your aunt won't die. It's just a scratch. Yes, it's bleeding, but it's not deep. By tomorrow, the blood will be gone like magic."
