Being careful not to overwhelm Poppy, everyone entered the room one at a time. Branch went to Poppy's side while his brothers maintained some distance along with Viva. The sight of the monitors overwhelmed the others at first, but when they saw Poppy was awake, there was more relief in their eyes. It encouraged them to come closer and give her a hug.
Dr. Plum cleared her throat. "Poppy dear, I discussed our plan with everyone. I think you will be happy to hear it."
Poppy nodded. "Ok."
Branch took Poppy's hand. "I'm going to take care of you. You'll stay at my bunker where it's quiet."
"No Branch. I can't ask you to do that."
"You're not asking, I want to help you get better. And Bruce will stay nearby just in case."
"What about the village?"
"We got it for you sis!" Viva exclaimed.
"And we know you don't want them to make a big fuss over you, so we'll let everyone know to give you some space." Peppy added.
"I know we're not too familiar with everyone's needs, but you've got a great group of friends who can help us too." Floyd said.
"But you guys have families, another land to look after, and…lives of your own. You shouldn't have to do this because I couldn't handle my stress." Poppy replied.
Before Poppy could object further, Floyd offered his input. "This is what families do. We pick up the pieces for the ones we care about. You've taken care of Branch for us all these years, let us return the favor for you."
"What he said, Poppy seed." JD emphasized.
Poppy thought she could cry right now. "Thank you guys…so much."
"You let us know if Branch gives you any problems." Clay teased.
Branch rolled his eyes, but couldn't stay mad for long when he saw Poppy give a chuckle. It was the brightest he'd seen her eyes all day. They talked a little bit more before Poppy requested some rest before leaving the medical pod.
"Wait…Branch. Can you stay?" Poppy asked.
He smiled. "Of course I will."
"And don't you worry about us sis! We got you covered!" Viva remarked.
"I'll be at your bunker later, Branch," shouted Bruce.
"Ok, Bruce. Floyd can show you where it is," Branch responded.
Peppy kissed Poppy's forehead. "Get some rest sweetheart." He turned to Branch. "Thank you, Branch." He winked before he left the two of them alone.
Dr. Plum set up another bag of fluids for Poppy to last another hour and instructed they could leave after it was done. Poppy closed her eyes and drifted off to sleep. Branch sat in the chair beside the bed, then everything started to set in. He thought about what he was going to do. He had an hour to come up with a plan. The first thing he started to think about was Poppy would be staying with him for a week, they had never stayed in a space with each other for that long before. Even though Poppy would be resting most of the time, he worried if it would be overwhelming for both of them.
Then another thought entered his brain, he had never taken care of anyone before. Poppy was going to be relying on him for daily tasks. He could handle feeding her and making sure she had enough to drink, but how was he going to clean her, assist her with the bathroom, and dress her? This was a whole new level of intimacy they had not come across yet. Now he understood why Bruce wanted to be nearby, Branch was glad that he didn't shut down the idea completely. Before his brain could intrude with more doubt, he assured himself that he was doing the right thing. He would deal with these feelings as they happened. The important priority was Poppy's health. He looked over at her, she looked exhausted. He never saw his girlfriend in such a state. His heart couldn't take this sight, but he had to stay strong for her. He walked over to her and ruffled her hair.
"Don't you worry about anything, Poppy. I will take good care of you." He kissed her forehead, he couldn't tell if he saw a hint of a smile, but her face looked more relaxed.
When the fluids finished up, Poppy woke up in time for Dr. Plum to disconnect her IV. Dr. Plum went through some final instructions before letting the two trolls go. Poppy refused to be taken out in a wheelchair, but reluctantly agreed when Branch reminded her of the walk to his bunker. They couldn't use their hair or fly with a critter bug since that was too strenuous and Poppy wouldn't make the whole walk on her own.
"I just don't want everyone to-"
"I know. It'll be ok though."
They braced themselves when they walked out of the medical pod. To their relief, they couldn't see or hear anyone. After some distance, they saw why. Viva and Clay were leading some game with the trolls keeping them distracted. In the distance, Viva spotted them and shared a wink implying that things were under control.
"I think Viva can keep them entertained for hours since she has the same energy level as you."
"That's what I'm hoping for."
At last they made it to the bunker. Once they made it down, Branch decided to not do his usual perimeter check. He wanted to get Poppy settled first. He pushed her towards his room and made sure the brakes of the wheelchair were on.
"Do you want to change into new clothes while you still have a little energy?"
"Sure, if you just help me get over to your bed."
Branch helped her stand up from the chair and guided her over to the bed. She was a little shaky when she stood up so he was relieved they had used the wheelchair to get here. Once he sat her on the bed, he went into his drawers to find her something to wear.
"Do you want to wear a pair of pajamas so you're comfortable?"
"Sure, maybe a nightgown will be easier."
He handed her one of her blue ones and left the room while she changed. Once she gave the ok for him to come back in, he took her clothes and put it in his hamper. Then he helped her get settled in the bed.
"Do you want some water? Are these blankets comfortable enough for you?"
"I'm ok for now and the blankets feel nice."
"Do you want to rest for a while?"
"Yes please."
"Ok. I'll come back and check on you a little bit, but please shout if you need me. I'll set my bunker safety settings on high just in case of intruders."
She chuckled and they shared a small kiss before she settled in his bed. He tucked her in with the blankets and fluffed the pillows. No sooner as she settled in, she closed her eyes again and Branch left the room leaving the door open ajar. After he did his perimeter check, he tidied up his bunker. It was the only way to occupy his mind. He knew Poppy wouldn't be hungry yet, but he figured he could start on her dinner. He got to work on his grandma's rutabaga ginger bark soup recipe, very easy on the stomach but still filling as she always said. He hadn't made it in so long, he only made it when he felt sick. Sometimes it helped him on his grey days when he had no appetite. Eating it felt like he was wrapped up in his grandma's embrace. He remembered the first time she ever made it for him.
***Flashback***
Branch was 4 years old, a few years since his brothers left. Branch had been very moody to the point where he put himself in a timeout in his bedroom. He remembered feeling terrible about how he talked to his grandma who was only trying to help. The truth was Branch was really missing his brothers on that day and didn't know how to process his emotions. He hid himself under the covers in his bed shamefully, he didn't want to sing, play, or anything. He heard the door open and remained still, hoping if he stayed like that then his grandma wouldn't find him.
"Branch?" His grandma called out.
Rosiepuff saw the lump in Branch's bed and smiled softly. She sat at the edge of Branch's bed and pulled the covers off of him. He didn't look at her, but Rosiepuff wasn't fazed. Raising 4 other grandsons she remembered each time when they went through something like this, but she knew Branch was taking his emotions to heart.
"There's my butterfly." She ruffled his hair. "That was a nasty slam I heard, is there something you want to talk about?"
Branch shook his head.
She rubbed his back. "That's ok. You don't have to talk about it right now. I wanted to see if you were hungry, you hardly touched your breakfast this morning."
Branch only shrugged his shoulders. Once again, not being fazed Rosiepuff offered him a gentle smile. She went and retrieved a bowl from the kitchen and set it down on his nightstand table.
"Sometimes when one is feeling sad, mad, or sick, they don't feel like eating. This right here can help. Your brothers used to love when I made this for them." She patted his back. "I'll be out there whenever you are feeling better."
Once she left the room, Branch could smell the soup and now felt tempted. He sat up a little and took a closer look. His grandma always made good food and he was starting to feel a little hungry. He took a few bites and it was like magic. The ginger and rutabaga flavor was bursting in his mouth, it was so warm and soothing. The warmth traveled through his body as he continued to take more bites. He didn't finish the whole thing, but he felt so much better. He found his strength to leave his room and find his grandma. He found her sitting in the living room knitting. Once Rosiepuff looked over at him he fidgeted with his fingers before he spoke.
"I'm sorry grandma. I didn't mean to get mad at you earlier. I just really miss my brothers today."
She smiled and patted the other side of the couch for him to sit, which he did. "It's ok baby, I know how you feel. I miss them too, but I know this is hard on you."
"Grandma, will they ever come home?"
"I don't know butterfly. I hope they will, but they are grown and can make their own decisions. One thing is for sure though, I will always be here for you."
"I'll never leave you either Grandma."
They hugged each other for a long time. Though Branch still missed his brothers deep in his heart, his grandma always knew what to do to make him feel better. She had been there to comfort him through nightmares, kiss his boo-boos when he hurt himself, and always played his favorite games whenever he wanted. His favorite thing to do was to sing for her, his falsetto always made his grandma feel so proud. The voice of an angel she always told him.
"Can we play gin rummy?" Branch asked shyly.
Rosiepuff was surprised. "Really? You want to play?"
"Yeah! But I'm not gonna let you win this time!"
"Is that so? Well we'll see who wins the money today!"
***End of Flashback***
A single tear escaped from Branch when the memory faded. He was happy to share this recipe with Poppy, he knew it would make her feel better as it had for him many times. He wished his grandma could have seen the day where the brothers reunited. While he stirred the soup on the stove, he heard a knock. That must be Bruce. He confirmed it through the telescope and opened the trap door. This was Bruce's first time in the bunker so it took some time for his eyes to adjust to the dark and take in all the supplies down there.
"Wow, you really are prepared."
"Thanks. Um..make yourself at home. Can I get you something?"
"No, I'm alright. Can I help you with anything?"
"No, I was just making…Grandma's soup."
"Really? You have her recipe?"
"Yeah…she told me before she…"
Bruce nodded. "I still remember how I'd feel everytime I ate it. She was really something wasn't she?"
"She was. I miss her everyday."
"It's too bad I didn't have the recipe, it would've helped my kids when they were sick."
"I can give it to you, it's no problem. I know grandma would want you guys to have it too."
"Thanks Branch. How's Poppy doing?"
"She's resting now. Hopefully she'll have some strength to eat a little later."
"How are you holding up?"
"I'm alright. Just trying to stay positive."
"You're doing the right thing. Poppy is lucky to have you. I promise I'll stay out of your way unless you need me. Speaking of which, where should I put my stuff?"
"You can set it in the living room over there. Are you sure your wife is ok with you being away?"
"Oh yeah, I told Brandi what happened. She loves Poppy and knew you would need some support."
"I'm sorry again for snapping at you guys earlier. This is all just so…"
"Overwhelming? I know."
"You said earlier that I would need someone who's been through this. What did you mean by that?"
"When Brandi was pregnant with our first two kids, she got really sick. She had to be on bedrest and couldn't do much for herself. Being her caretaker was hard, not only because of our size difference, but because I loved her and it was hard to see her in pain. The feeling of helplessness."
"I'm sorry Bruce, that must have been hard. You went through it alone?"
"Many people offered to help, but I was stubborn and wanted to do it on my own. That's why I didn't want you to make the same mistake. I know you're fully capable, but it can be an emotionally draining process."
"Well thank you for thinking of me. I'm still new to all of this so I guess I don't know any better. Um…how are your kids doing?"
"Growing up too fast. Sometimes me and Brandi think of having another one."
Before Branch could answer, he heard Poppy calling him. His fight or flight system kicked in and he hurried over. Bruce took over stirring the soup on the stove. Branch didn't realize how much he rushed until he felt himself gasping for air. Finally he reached his door and opened it, he turned on his lamp to see Poppy better. She looked like she was struggling to sit up so he went over to her and helped her.
"I heard you calling, is everything ok?"
"Yes. Um…I need to use the bathroom."
"Oh. Um…sure. I-uh-here."
Both of them were trying to hide how flustered they felt, but they both knew that this was awkward. He helped Poppy stand up, she was still very shaky. Better to be safe, he carried her to his bathroom. He thought his heart would jump out of his chest with what the next steps were going to be. He set Poppy down on the toilet and felt himself turning purple.
"Do you need any help with uh…"
"No! No…I can handle that part on my own."
"Ok, I'll wait out here and help you back to bed whenever you're done here."
"Ok."
Wow. Branch knew this was going to be awkward helping her with everyday living, but what on earth was he going to do when she would be weaker tomorrow and unable to do it for herself. One thing at a time he reminded himself. He knew Poppy was probably feeling awkward about this too and the last thing he wanted to add to her discomfort.
"Branch. I'm ready." Poppy called out.
Branch went back into his bathroom and made sure to keep his face neutral. Shoving the awkwardness deep down. "Do you want to try and walk or for me to carry you?"
"Um…I can try to walk."
Branch helped her off the toilet and allowed her to steady herself. She moved very slowly, grabbing tightly of his arms. He helped her wash her hands at the sink before they went back to his bedroom. Poppy lost her balance for a second, but Branch's reflexes acted fast and he caught her. From there he carried her back to the bed.
"Are you ok?" Branch asked tenderly.
"Yeah, it just scared me. I'll never take walking for granted again."
"You'll get your strength back in no time." He tucked her back in the covers. "I'm making some soup, are you hungry?"
"Maybe in a little bit. I am thirsty though."
"Ok, I'll bring you some water. Do you want me to keep the lamp on for you?"
"Sure, just not too bright."
"Ok." He adjusted the brightness before he left the room.
He walked back in the kitchen, he couldn't help but give a small chuckle seeing his brother continuously stirring the soup. "You know you don't have to keep stirring, you gotta let it simmer."
"Oh, right."
Branch retrieved a glass of water and made his way back to his room. He sat at the edge of the bed once more. "Do you need some help or do you want to try?"
"I'll try." She took the glass from him and her hands started shaking. Branch reached out to help, but she insisted she could do it. She took a few sips, but not without making a mess on herself. Feeling frustrated she slammed the glass down on the bedside table. This didn't go unnoticed by Branch.
"Hey, it's ok-"
"No it isn't! You heard what Dr. Plum said! This is the most strength I'm going to have and I can't even drink a glass of water!"
"Poppy."
"Then you're gonna have to do everything. I'm going to be such a burden to you, I can't even walk without worrying you!"
Branch cradled her chin. "Poppy, look at me. Don't say such things. You are not a burden to me. I love you and would lift the world on my shoulders to help you feel better. I know you want your strength back, but like Dr. Plum said you're going to feel worse before you feel better. I know you're feeling frustrated and it's ok to feel that way. You've taken care of me so many times, let me do this for you, ok?"
She nodded. "Ok."
He kissed her forehead in response. "Do you want some more water?"
"No, but there is something else you can do."
"Anything."
"Will you take my hair out of my ponytail so it doesn't turn into a tangled mess?
"Of course, do you want me to brush it too?"
She nodded and he got up to find her brush. He sat back on the bed again and turned her towards him in a comfortable position. He gently took out her scrunchie and was overwhelmed by how wonderful her hair smelled. He ran his fingers through her hair to make sure there were no knots. Once confirmed, he ran the brush through her hair. It ran so smoothly, it was so satisfying to him. He stole a look at Poppy who had her eyes closed and a small smile appeared on her face. She was enjoying this, as was he. Hair brushing was an intimate act between trolls since their hair was very sensitive. Running the brush a few more times and seeing no tangles, Branch sat Poppy up back against his pillow. He was stuck in a gaze of the sight of her free flowing hair until her voice snapped him out of it.
"That felt very nice."
"I'm glad. Do you feel comfortable?"
"I do."
"Do you want to try some soup when it's ready?"
"Yeah, I'm feeling a little hungry now."
"Ok. I'll go check on it."
"Oh and Branch. Thank you for putting up with me."
"Oh Poppifer, I should be thanking you for putting up with me. I know I worry a lot sometimes."
"Nonsense. It just means you care."
He smirked. Even with herself not being 100%, she could always offer some playful banter. He kissed her forehead again and went back to the kitchen.
"Everything ok in there?" Bruce asked.
"Yeah. All good." He stirred the soup and tried a sip. It had been a long time since he made it and all the flavors bursted just like he had when he tried it for the first time.
"Would you mind if I tried it?" Bruce asked.
Branch handed him the spoon and Bruce took a sip for himself and his eyes widened.
"Wow, this tastes like, wow I…I gotta sit down."
"Like grandma used to make huh?"
"It's like she's still here."
"I know. I really would like to try more of her recipes, but I'm afraid it wouldn't taste the same."
"If you can do justice to her soup, I can only imagine her cookies and berry tarts."
"Those were amazing."
"Before you and Floyd were born, the three of us would always sneak into the kitchen after bedtime to sneak more cookies. She always caught us and ended up making them fresh for us even in the middle of the night. It was really something."
"Maybe I'll try to make it sometime. I think the soup's ready, I'm going to take some to Poppy."
"That will definitely make her feel better! Would you mind if I take a look around your bunker? I won't snoop in your stuff."
"Sure, just be mindful of the traps."
As Bruce showed himself around, Branch took some soup to Poppy.
"Mmm…that smells good."
A small smile appeared on Branch's face. "My grandma made this for me whenever I wasn't feeling well. I hope it'll help you too."
She smiled back. "I'm sure it will."
"Do you want me to hold the bowl while you feed yourself?"
"Um..I'm afraid I'll spill on myself again."
"You need a bib. I'm kidding, I'll help you eat. It's not terribly hot, but be careful."
He stirred it around and held the spoon out to Poppy, she sipped it slowly. Her eyes widened as she fully tasted it.
"Wow…that is amazing."
"I'm glad you like it."
"Well? I'd like some more please."
Branch laughed and fed her some more. "I'm not kidding, it's the best soup I've ever had. It tastes like a warm hug."
"Just as grandma intended."
To Branch's surprise, Poppy ate the whole thing. She laid back on the pillow feeling satisfied. He made him happy to see her like that. He helped her drink a few more sips of water.
"Um Branch, I need to use the bathroom again."
"Ok." He lifted her out of the bed and helped her just like before. This time around he could tell the both of them felt less awkward with this. He knew they'd still have some awkward moments this week, but he would try his best to not overthink it too much. As he settled her back in, he felt this time went a lot smoother than earlier.
"Are you going to eat something soon?" Poppy asked.
"Maybe in a little while. Not entirely too hungry."
"How will you get your strength to take care of me if you don't eat?" She teased.
"I don't need food for that."
"You know what I really want? Your eggplant parmigiana."
"I'll make that and anything else you want when you're feeling better."
"I'm holding you to that."
"I know you will. I'll let you rest some more. Do you need anything else?"
Poppy shook her head. "You can just leave the lamp on and I'll shout if I need you."
"Sounds like a plan."
Branch left the room and found Bruce in the living room and decided to go over and join him.
"Oh hey Branch. I hope you don't mind, I wrapped up the soup and put it in the fridge for you."
"I don't mind, thank you. Did you enjoy your self guided tour?
"Yeah, very impressive. If the apocalypse comes, I know where I'm going."
"It's pretty resourceful."
"Do you think you and Poppy will live here?"
"Live here?"
"If the two of you decided to live together, would you live in the bunker or her pod?"
"I don't know. We haven't talked about that yet. It would be hard to leave this place though. I tried to live in a pod, but I couldn't even bring myself to blow up the bunker."
"I get it. You called this place home the last 20 years. It would be hard if I had to leave Vacay island."
"How did you end up finding it anyways?"
"The same way you did. I saw the sunset in a magazine and I found it."
"I'm happy you found your place Bruce. I know you're a lot happier."
"Well I'm actually happier now that my brothers are back in my life. My kids will get to grow up with their uncles. Maybe some cousins soon?"
Branch started to blush. "Whoa whoa, pump the brakes!"
Bruce laughed. "No pressure, but compared to the rest of our brothers I think you'll be next."
"Ok, ok another subject please. Do you want a sandwich for dinner?"
"I can make us some sandwiches. I insist."
"But you don't know what I have or know where anything in my kitchen is."
"I can navigate, take a load off and relax."
Branch sighed. "Fine."
When his brother had been gone awhile, Branch smelled something grilling and worried Bruce was going to burn his bunker down. Luckily Bruce returned a few moments later, looking proud of his creation.
"Tada!"
"What is it?"
"Grilled cheese with tomato slices."
"Grilled cheese?"
"Nature's best comfort food! You've never had one?"
"No."
"You're going to love it!
Branch took a bite and had to admit it was really good. Probably not his first choice of food, but it was very delicious. He continued to eat as Bruce went on about how his kids loved his grilled cheese and since they were picky eaters it was the only thing they wanted. Sometimes they would even pick out the tomatoes. Branch nodded along while Bruce kept on with his tangent.
"I tell you Branch it's the little things in life."
"Yeah. I agree. I'm going to check on Poppy, then I think I'm going to turn in. It's been a long day."
"Alright. Would you mind if I use your bathroom and freshen up?"
"Sure, it's right down there."
Branch headed back to his bedroom. Poppy was turned on her side now, breathing softly. He debated if he should wake her or not, in the end he decided to leave her at peace. He covered her up snuggly with the blankets and kissed her cheek before turning off the lamp. Back in the living room, Branch pulled the couch out and put on the proper sheets and blankets on it. He grabbed some extra pillows from his closet and set them down there. He grabbed his sleeping bag as well and set it in the middle of the floor. Branch looked up to see Bruce coming back.
"I made up the couch for you."
"Don't be silly, I can sleep in the chair. You can have your couch."
"Bruce, I insist. I can just sleep in my sleeping bag, that chair isn't comfortable."
"You're not staying in your room?"
"No, Poppy is asleep and I didn't want to wake her. She needs some good rest."
Bruce nodded. "Alright, but if you feel uncomfortable, I don't mind sleeping on the floor."
"It'll be fine."
After getting settled in, the brothers said goodnight to one another before turning off the light. Branch managed to get some good sleep without his worries keeping him awake. The next morning however was not so welcoming. When Branch woke up to check on Poppy, he was horrified by the sight. Poppy had been curled up in a fetal position almost as if she was in pain. Branch tried to get her to tell him what was wrong, but she couldn't get her words out. She was too weak. What upset him the most was the grimace on her face, he couldn't tell if she was in pain, dizzy, or needed something. She was not able to tell him. He didn't know what to do, should he take her back to Dr. Plums? Should he get her Dad? All he knew was he needed to get out of the room to collect his thoughts.
"Branch, what's wrong?" Bruce asked.
"She-I don't know what's wrong. She looks like she's in pain, but she can't tell me. It seems like it hurts too much to speak."
"Dr. Plum said this would happen."
"I don't know what to do, she looks so uncomfortable and I don't think anything I do will help. Please Bruce tell me what to do."
"You know what to do, Branch. You don't need me. Seeing her like this is clouding your thoughts, but don't let it doubt your abilities. It's the storm before the sunrise."
"But it's so-"
"I know, heart shattering. But you're going to be the one who makes her well again. I know this is hard, but you're going to get through this. Right now though, she needs you."
It was exactly what Branch needed to hear before going back into the room. The grimace on her face had not left, but Branch wasn't as frightened this time. He stroked her back to try and calm her and it seemed to do the trick. Her grimace lowered, but she still looked uncomfortable. He put one of the pillows underneath her bottom and faced her the other way, almost instantly relief appeared on her face. Then it made sense, she had been too weak to turn herself on her other side. He could kick himself for that, but instead he made a mental reminder to turn her every few hours. He let her lay comfortably for a little while before he sat her up for her to have a drink of water. Though they were very weak sips, at least it was something in her system. Poppy closed her eyes again and drifted off. He breathed a sigh of relief that she was comfortable for the time being.
A few hours later, he turned her on her other side and put another pillow under her back. From his experience lying in the bed for a long period of time made the body sore, so he wanted to ease the tension off of her. Later, he made her a troll berry banana smoothie and she was able to gulp down a few sips with his help. She shook her head when he asked if she wanted her hair brushed, to use the bathroom, or change her clothes. She did agree to a few more sips of the smoothie and some music to be left on so that way she was not in total silence. She had one more request.
"Stay." She said weakly.
He did just that. He got under the covers, but didn't fully cuddle her. He stroked her back and arm to let her know that he was right there. He readjusted the pillows when he felt her squirm around in discomfort. He got up and changed the station if she didn't like the song playing. One of the things he found that helped Poppy remain at ease was telling her stories about his early childhood days. He left out his grey days and instead focused on his happier times such as when he and his brothers played hide and seek and they would cheat everytime, how Floyd always comforted Branch when he had a bad dream, going by the river and throwing stones to see how far they could go.
By the time the afternoon rolled around, Branch felt he had this down. When Poppy would wake up, he would turn her on her other side, adjust the pillow, help her take a few sips of water and the smoothie. When she drifted off, he would leave the room for about 20 min to give himself a break and come back until she awoke again. By then, Poppy had been able to mutter a few words and communicate a little better than this morning much to Branch's relief. The last thing she wanted to do was get up, but Branch insisted she at least sit up for a little bit to prevent herself from getting stiff. Branch helped her sit on the edge of the bed and assisted with a range of motion exercises with her arms to help get her blood flowing. After that, Poppy was agreeable to have her hair brushed. Her hair was a little knottier than yesterday, so it took a little longer this time. Even if Poppy couldn't fully express it, her face looked like she was very grateful.
"Are you sure you don't want to get washed up or change clothes?" Branch asked.
She shook her head again. "No. I don't want you to see me…"
She didn't have to finish her thought for him to understand. She was in no position to offer help to him with undressing, so it would all be on him. It put her in a vulnerable spot. Both blushed a little at the comment and there was a short awkward silence.
"That's ok. I would feel the same way, but I want you to know if you change your mind I would never cross any boundary. I would not look at you like that without your permission."
Poppy nodded. "Brush… teeth."
"Yours or mine?" He chuckled.
"Me." She clarified.
He found her pink toothbrush in his bathroom and applied a good amount of her peppermint toothpaste. He grabbed an empty cup and a towel to place around her neck. She opened her mouth as wide as she could, to distract themselves from the awkwardness Branch sang a song. A short funny one about rain which Poppy found amusing. Once he felt he brushed enough, he had her sip and spit in the cup. Poppy turned a little pink spitting in front of him. How disgusted he must be, she thought. My breath and body probably smell bad, I'm so disgusting.
Branch wasn't thinking that at all. If she had smelled bad, Branch wasn't fazed. He went to put her toothbrush back and came back with a warm washcloth. He gently washed her face with it, both of them had butterflies with this motion. The warmness of the cloth made Poppy feel good, it wasn't a nice warm shower but she didn't feel as gross. He applied some moisturizer to her lips and face when he was done with the cloth. It was the first time this morning that she actually felt comfortable and it was all because of his caring nature.
"Thank you." Poppy muttered.
"You're welcome, my love."
Poppy felt a little more refreshed and felt some strength to sit at the edge some more. Although she'd never admit to Branch, she did feel a lot better doing so. However, they encountered another flustering obstacle when he assisted her to the bathroom. When she wasn't able to bring her underwear down on her own, she gave him permission to help her, but insisted she could handle wiping herself. Branch kept to his word from earlier and closed his eyes when doing so and did not touch any part of her body. After that, Branch didn't feel comfortable leaving her in the bathroom alone given how weak she was. He stayed as far away as he could and turned away from her. He hummed out loud to ease the tension. When she called him, he closed his eyes again and pulled her underwear back up.
By the evening, Poppy felt 50% better than this morning. She was able to turn herself a little, but still required some help. She found herself having more of an appetite, so she ate about a quarter of Branch's soup. He still had to help her eat, but she didn't feel as flustered this time. She found it cute that he was doing this. Even when he was grey, Poppy remembered him always showing a hint of a caring nature, but to see this with his heart in it 100% was making her heart soar. How would she have done this without him? She reflected about their bathroom encounter today and she was glad that he had his eyes closed because her face burned so much. Branch didn't show any sign of discomfort which was relieving to her. She hoped she would have some strength back tomorrow because she really did want to get herself clean. However, she wasn't going to be able to do it on her own though. She knew Branch would never take advantage of her in that situation, but they hadn't explored each other like that yet. They were both smart, so there had to be some way around it without feeling completely exposed. When the nightfall came, Branch came back in to tuck her into the bed and adjust her pillows. She took another few sips of water. She pointed out a few places where she felt stiff and sore and Branch did not hesitate to massage the areas or lay a warm cloth on it. Not too long after, sleepiness started to overtake her.
"Love you, Branch." She whispered.
"I love you too, Poppy."
He stood up to leave, but seeing this Poppy stopped him. "Please Branch. Stay."
Branch did the same as before when he laid with her. He resisted the urge to cuddle, he didn't want her to get overwhelmed. She seemed more at ease with him by her side. Every few hours still, he would rotate her on to her different side to prevent soreness. It didn't wake her which relieved him. He had to admit he was pretty exhausted himself from today, but he wouldn't have traded it for anything. He would give up sleep in a heartbeat to keep Poppy comfortable. He was ready for what tomorrow would bring, obstacles and all. No matter how awkward it was, Branch loved taking care of Poppy.
Happy Holidays everyone! I'm sorry this took awhile, work was so busy this week. Hope everyone enjoyed this long chapter, once the creative juices get flowing it's hard to stop! Once again, this part became longer than expected, so part 3 will be next! I have some time off work, so hopefully I can get it up faster! I hope this made you guys feel awkward and uncomfortable as Poppy and Branch were feeling! If it did, then I did my job. Helping your partner with these things is not all cupcakes and rainbows, so these two are no expectation. What a first for our couple! Of course I had to add some Rosiepuff, I'm glad they didn't completely cast her aside, but I wish we got to see more! I don't remember where the nickname Butterfly came from, maybe from one of the tv shows? Either way I think it suits Branch! Expect to see more intimate moments with Poppy and Branch in Part 3 since I believe they'll start to get more comfortable with each other ;) stay tuned!
~Ash