But a Moment's Respite
By SMYGO4EVA
The air felt heavy, and Barbara knew she could not continue, not long for today.
She sat still, exhaustion seeping in, the soot billowing from her, but not much longer.
Her hands held the old, makeshift bandages; she found herself unable to dispose of them, not yet.
It was her fault; she couldn't let the others see her like this, not even in front of Barbie. She got hurt, all because of her.
This could not happen again, no, it would not. She had to be a beacon, to be strong, and to be the best, all for the Shadows House.
She would not dare to return in such disarray, and she would stand upright.
"Barbara?" A familiar voice broke her out of her train of thought. Barbara lifted her head slowly, seeing Maryrose in front of her.
"Barbara, are you alright?" Maryrose asked, a concerned tone in her voice.
Barbara winced at the tone; Maryrose was usually so unwavering, so spry and straightforward. It was as if nothing could get to her.
"I don't feel so good." Barbara replied, unable to stop herself, and her head lowered, gaze cast down.
Maryrose sat next to her, leaving a small space between them.
"I understand, I know how that feeling, even more than I care to admit." Maryrose replied, her voice now solemn, and warm like candlelight.
Barbara nodded.
Maryrose tuned her head to regard the other Shadow, her hand between the two of them. "I hope that you know what I'm here for you, you and Barbie. The same goes for Rosemary, we're here for you. Just remember that."
Barbara nodded once again, one of her hands moving, slowly, gently. She then placed it on top of Maryrose's.
"Yes, I will."
Barbara felt the strength she had leave her, so she placed her head on Maryrose's shoulder.
The makeshift bandages fell out of her other hand, floating to the ground.