Rylee paced nervously outside the infirmary, afraid to go inside. Percy and Annabeth watched her calmly until Annabeth gently said,
"It's not your fault."
"But it is I didn't stop her she travelled across the country twice in a row and now she's sick and what if- what if-" she broke off into hysterical sobs. Percy shot an alarmed look at Annabeth and stood up. Rylee shuffled to him slowly and allowed her brother to wrap his long arms around her.
"Rylee Mae Jackson, you listen to me," he murmured. "It is not your fault. Makynna was nervous and jumpy. You tried to stop her. She's just like Nico, won't listen to anyone." Rylee absorbed the words, her head laying on Percy's chest placidly. She heard Annabeth stand up and felt a brief, comforting touch on her arm before Annabeth walked into the other room. Percy released Rylee, but kept an arm around her shoulders supportingly.
"Do you want to go visit her?" Rylee nodded, lifting her chin boldly.
"Atta girl," Percy said fondly. They walked together past the doorframe and the first thing Rylee saw was Austin's face. Set with determination, Rylee could see by the tightness around his mouth and eyes that he was upset. Her heart sank so low she thought it would hit the floor. Swallowing her fear, Rylee turned her gaze to Makynna. Kayla, one of Makynna's closest friends and Austin's older sister, was laying a damp cloth on her forehead.
Makynna's eyes opened.
"Ry?" She whispered. Rylee nodded. Makynna's grey eyes were clouded and distant, but her hand reached out for Rylee. Rylee took Makynna's hand gently and laid it back down, squeezing it once tightly in reassurance.
"Rest," Austin murmured softly as he took Makynna's pulse, jotting down notes. Glancing up, his piercing green eyes met Rylee's clear blue ones.
"You too. Nico's been worried sick. He's driving us insane." Rylee nodded slightly and glanced back down at her friend. Kayla saw her gaze and stood up.
"I'll walk you to the door," she said softly. Taking Rylee by the arm, she steered her out. When they'd left earshot, Kayla said,
"She's gonna be just fine. Don't worry. I promise I will tell you how she's doing at every meal until she's up again. Austin's already said he won't leave her side. Okay?" Rylee nodded before impulsively throwing her arms around Kayla. Although surprised, Kayla hugged her back.
"Thank you," Rylee murmured. Kayla patted her back gently as she replied,
"You're welcome."