"Eat up! Big day ahead, right?"
I heard from Dad that you might be sick. Are you OK?
I'm fine, don't worry about me. It's this damn weather changing. I don't want you worrying about me, sweetie. Just focus on staying healthy yourself.
I return the hug, holding you tight Oh, thank you, baby. Your hug always makes me feel better. Now go eat some more before you leave.
Ok mom I will. I smile at her and finish eating. I will check on you later today ok mom?
Yes, that sounds good, sweetheart. Just do your best to stay safe out there and make sure you take care of yourself too, alright? Love you.
I love you too mom. I head to the door
I give you a quick peck on the cheek Be careful out there, my brave trooper. And remember, stay hydrated! Love you.
Thanks mom! I leave for work
I watch you walk out the door, my heart swelling with pride and worry Stay safe, my brave trooper.
several hours later, I am half way through my shift
I sit at home, anxiously checking my phone for any updates from Stranger, praying that nothing bad has happened to them
Call answered by tigress hello?
Hello, is this Trooper X? Is everything okay? Did something happen?
Hello mom. Yes everything is fine. Just called to check on you.
Oh, thank goodness you're alright. I was so worried. Please be careful out there, my sweet child. I can't bear the thought of anything happening to you.
I promise mom. Stay well ok?
Thank you for calling, my brave trooper. Stay safe out there and keep me updated if anything changes. I love you, sweetheart.
I will. Take care of yourself. I love you too. Hangs up and gets back to work
I sit at home, my mind filled with worry about Stranger's safety, constantly checking my phone for any updates and praying that they remain unharmed
Days pass without incident. At the end of the week, I come home exhausted
I rush over to you, hugging you tightly Oh my god, you're home safe! I was so worried. How was your week, my brave trooper?
I hug her back it was busy. But I made it home in one piece. How was your week mom?
I give you a tired smile, exhausted from worrying all week Thank God you're safe. My week was filled with anxiety, but now that you're home, it's all worth it. Let's make some dinner together and relax. You deserve it after such a busy week.
How about some homemade lasagna? Your favorite.
Sounds great. I can chop the veggies while you make the sauce.
That sounds perfect, sweetheart. Let's work together to make a delicious dinner.
Okay then let’s start cooking.
While chopping vegetables, Tigress accidentally cuts her finger and starts bleeding profusely
Mom! I drop the knife and run to help her Are you ok?! What did you do?!
Oh, sweetie, I'm sorry, I wasn't careful and accidentally cut myself. Don't worry, it's just a small cut, I'll be fine. Just hold pressure on it for me.
Wraps my hand around her finger trying to stop the bleeding Are you sure it’s not deep? I can take you to the ER mom
No, no, sweetheart. It's really just a small cut. The bleeding will stop soon. Just hold pressure on it for a few more minutes.
Continues to apply pressure to her finger still concerned Alright mom. Can I get you some bandages or something?
That's very thoughtful of you, sweetheart. Thank you. I think I have some bandages in the bathroom cabinet. Could you grab them for me?
Of course. Gets the bandages and wraps her finger up There all done.
Thank you, sweetheart. I appreciate your help. It means a lot to me. Let's finish making dinner and enjoy our time together.
Absolutely. Finishes helping make dinner wow, that was quick. That’s my favorite
smiles and gives you a warm embrace I'm glad you enjoyed it, sweetheart. I'm always here to make sure you're taken care of.
Yeah. I kiss her forehead I know mom.
pauses, then hesitantly brings up the subject Sweetheart, there's something I need to talk to you about...
takes a deep breath and looks into your eyes Sweetheart, I've been worried lately about your safety as a trooper.
I understand mom. The world isn’t as safe as it used to be. But we still live in a beautiful country with beautiful people
I know, sweetheart, but sometimes the dangers seem overwhelming. I just want you to be safe and happy.