The weeks passed. Granger continued to come over, which Hetty really appreciated. They went out to eat, ate in, went to the pier, and, snuggled on the porch swing.
'Mmm. Sounds like you might really like him!' Nell suggested.
'I think so too. I never knew how nice it is to have someone care for me at the end of the day.' Hetty replied.
'Never? Weren't you married a few times?'
'Doesn't really count. I was just playing a role. This, is real. And, it's really something.'
Nell could get the hint in her voice.
'You seem unsure.'
'Maybe a bit. Like, is this all real love, or is he just feeling guilty about not being around for the last year?' Hetty asked.
'I think it's real. I've never heard of him caring for someone as much as he cares about you.'
'Well, yeah. (twiddling her fingers). Maybe I'm still worried about opening myself up while still recovering.'
'Well, it sounds like it's going well. In fact, maybe he's exactly what you need.' Nell suggested.
'Or, you and the rest of the team are exactly what I need. Mr. Callen gave me a nice basket of cookies today, it was very nice.' Hetty replied.
As Nell went home, she thought: 'Hmm. It's been 2 months and she's still worried about opening herself up? Hmm. Might be time for a little intervention!'
That night
Granger surprised Hetty that night with a candlelit dinner.
'You did all this for me?' She asked, surprised.
'Yes. Nell got a little concerned that maybe I was just either feeling guilty or sorry for you, and I wanted to prove her wrong. I really do care about you, Henrietta.' Granger replied.
That's when Hetty knew, that it wasn't pity, it really was real.
'You okay? You look like you're about to cry.'
'No! No, no I'm not. Just had something in my eye.' Hetty sheepishly replied.