It took a little while, but Maya finally got used to using the crutches. Of course, every once in a while there was a fall, but Riley or Cory was always there to catch her. Once they got the clear that Maya could leave, the three of them went back to the Matthews' apartment. It was pretty late, so Maya decided just to stay over.

Riley helped Maya to her room and into her pajamas.

Maya sat down on the edge of Riley's bed, while Riley leaned the crutches against the wall.

Riley walked back over to her and asked, "Can I check your bruises again?"

Maya sighed. "Riley..."

Riley quickly replied, "I know I'm not a doctor but I'm worried about you. I'm just want to make sure you're okay."

Maya's face softened and she obliged.

Riley was once again looking at Maya's bruises. Riley did the same thing that she did before; lightly brushing her hand over them.

Maya wasn't flinching as hard, but it did still hurt.

This time, however, Riley also did something else. She kissed the palm of her hand and placed it over one of Maya bruises.

If at all possible, Maya felt less pain.

Riley did the same thing to her other bruise, and Maya felt no pain at all. Riley then fully stood up and kissed her brow.

Maya was stunned. It was as if Riley had a magic touch.

As if Riley read her mind, she giggled, "What can I say, kisses always make me feel better. I figured I would try it on you."

Maya's just smiled and wrapped her arms around her neck, hugging her.

Riley smiled and hugged her back. She then sat next to her and asked, "Are you tired, Maya? You look tired."

Maya nodded. "I am really tired. she then paused, kissed her cheek, and continued, "But you don't have to worry about me, Riles."

Riley laughed. "That's my job, Maya, I care about you. Anyways, let's go to sleep."

Maya smiled warmly and nodded again.

Riley helped Maya lay down without hurting herself any more than she already has.

As soon as they were in a comfortable position, Maya cuddled into Riley.

Riley did the same and held her close.

"I'm still so sorry about earlier," Maya whispered in her ear.

Riley ran her fingers through Maya's hair. "You don't need to be sorry. Even as best friends we can't always get along twenty-four seven." She moved her hand until it rested on Maya's cheek, then continued, "I still love you, and that's all that matters."

Maya could feel her eyes start to water. Being loved was such an amazing feeling.

Riley noticed Maya was trying not to cry, so she whispered, "it's ok to cry, Peaches."

That's all it took for Maya to just let go all of the tears she kept in when she first got kicked. She cried into Riley's neck whilst Riley rubbed her back soothingly. After what seemed like a long time, Maya's crying turned to hiccups so Riley pulled back a little so that they could be face to face. Maya looked into Riley's eyes intently.

Riley looked back; wondering if she should say anything. She finally said, "we should go to sleep Maya, it's been a long day."

Maya nodded and pulled Riley closer to press a soft kiss to her forehead.

Riley returned the kiss and also pressed one to Maya's forehead. They fell asleep in each other's arms. They finally felt safe.