A/N: I know this update took forever! Turns out when you actually try to write, you can get some writing done. I'm trying shorter chapters, so I'm gonna see how this works. Thanks for reading!


Gene tried to sit patiently as Bella fluffed his pillows, commanding himself to stop twitching. Bella had adopted a removed demeanor (at best) since their touch the other day, and Gene knew the only way to gain back her trust was to give her time and space.

But Gene had had enough time and space dancing in that godforsaken studio.

"B-Bella?" He stuttered, eyelashes fluttering nervously. He glanced through them up at the nurse.

"Yes?" She remained distant.

"I was just wondering – " Gene quickly scanned the room for any trivial excuse to talk to her, his eyes settling on his empty tray. "Could I bother you for another cup of Jello?"

"I'll be right back." Bella glided out of the room. Gene was left to curse himself for speaking too soon, for pushing for too much. He mentally berated himself, smacking his numb legs.

Bella reentered, carrying the treat and a spoon and silently placing them in Gene's outstretched hands. He noted how she was careful not to touch any part of him.

"Thank you, Bella."

"You're welcome." She took a deep breath and sat down on the edge of the bed, a little smile forming along her lips.

"What is it?" Gene wished he could touch her, encourage her to open up to him. He mirrored her, smiling himself.

Bella tucked a loose hair behind her ear. "My mother, she used to love Jello. Sometimes, when I couldn't fall asleep, she'd let me sit in my father's armchair with her and share hers." Bella smirked. "I remember, one time I spilled some in the corner, and it dyed my father's chair red. He was so angry with me. But it was worth it," she ended, eyes crinkling as she recalled the memory.

Gene held out his own cup of Jello. "Would you like some of mine?"

Bella shook her head. "No, you need your strength." She gave him a thankful smile, the first he'd seen since their first meeting. "But thank you for offering."

"Of course. It's the least I can do," he added, gesturing to his room to indicate his appreciation for her hard work.

"Yes, well…" Bella trailed off and settled for a nod of understanding. She stood up, brushing dust off the bedside table before moving for the door. She paused at the entrance. "Have a good day."

Gene gave a small grin in reply, watching as she exited. It wasn't a huge step. But it was something. And right now, he would take it.


"How are you doing today, Mr. Casey?"

Gene could hardly believe his ears. For once, Bella had initiated conversation instead of him. He scrambled to formulate a sentence, noticing her strange look as he sat there in silence and came up with a reply.

"Wonderful, Bella, just wonderful," he beamed. Then he remembered. "Just a second," he indicated, holding up a finger. He twisted to reach behind his pillow. After a few seconds of searching, he produced the item. "Here. I saved it for you. I don't have an armchair, and I'm not your mother, but I figured you could spill some on my blanket if you'd like."

Bella grinned and gingerly accepted the Jello cup. "Why, thank you, Mr. Casey. This was very thoughtful of you."

"You're welcome" Gene was going to take advantage of every bone Bella threw him. He paused, trying to choose from dozens of questions bouncing around in his mind. "Tell me about yourself. I want to know more about you."

"There's not much to tell," Bella replied. Gene watched as she carefully peeled back the lid, licking it and her lips to catch every last bit of the snack. She sighed. "My father lives far away, and my mother passed away long ago. There's not much to do in this town, what with all the men away at war." She shrugged. "I'm the best nurse here, so I work as many hours as possible."

"I wouldn't doubt it for a second," Gene smirked. He watched as she scraped the bottom of the cup with its miniature spoon. "What do you like to do for pleasure?"

"For pleasure? I like to talk. Doesn't even have to be about anything specific, I'll just go on and on for hours."

"I could stand to listen to you for a good while," Gene agreed, nodding.

Bella's cheeks reddened but she made no further comment.

"Nurse Jenkins!" A voice called from the hallway in search of the nurse.

Bella jumped off the bed, quickly tossing the empty Jello cup into the trashcan. "I'd better go."

"Yes, you'd better." Gene had to consciously focus on not frowning. "But I'll see you later on, correct?"

Bella simply nodded and started towards the voice calling her. She smiled wide as she exited. "Enjoy your lunch, Gene."

"Thank you, Bella." He couldn't prevent a grin from stretching across his face, pumping his fist in victory.

Gene might not be able to move his legs, but in his heart, he was dancing for joy.