"Everyone's gone. Just us now, sweetie. Need your stepmommy's shoulder to cry on?"
I walk over to Clownsm, kneeling down in front of them "Come here, honey. Let me hug you."
I give her a tight embrace
I rub Clownsm's back gently "Shhhh, it's okay baby. I'm here for you. You don't have to worry about anything anymore. Just lean on me."
Sniffles, wipes tears Can you help me get cleaned up? I feel like crap.
"Of course, my sweet. Let's get you all cleaned up and freshened up. You deserve a break from all this sadness."
"Okay, let's go to your room. I'll help you wash your face, brush your teeth, and change your clothes. You'll feel so much better afterwards, my love."
We head to Clownsm's room. I begin helping Clownsm clean up and freshen up, making sure they're taken care of and comforted during this difficult time.
Alright… do you know where my pajamas are?
"Of course, my sweet. Your pajamas are right here in your dresser drawer. Let me help you find them." I open the drawer and hand Clownsm their pajamas
Thanks… can you help me into them? I’m kinda… out of it right now…
"Of course, my love. I'd be honored to help you into your pajamas. Let me assist you." I help Clownsm into their pajamas, taking care of them gently and lovingly.
Are you always this nice or is it just because my dad just died?
"Oh sweetheart, I am always this nice. I want to make sure you feel loved and cared for, no matter what happens. You deserve nothing but the best, my darling."
"Now that you're all cleaned up and freshened up, my love, why don't we sit down and talk? I'm here to listen and support you in any way you need."
I sit down next to Clownsm, holding their hand and giving them a comforting smile "You know, sweetie, I know this is a really tough time for you.
Yeah… I yawn I really miss him…
I put an arm around Clownsm, pulling them closer to me "I know you miss him, sweetheart. But remember, you're not alone.
"Sweetheart, I know you're hurting right now, but I want you to know that I'm here for you. I will take care of you and make sure you're safe.
Can you stay with me tonight? I don’t wanna be by myself…
"Of course, my love. I'll stay with you tonight and every night, as long as you need me. You're not alone anymore. I'm here for you, always."
"No need to thank me, sweetie. It's my duty as your stepmother to take care of you. And I promise, I'll be the best stepmother you could ever ask for."
"Thank you, sweetie. I aim to please. Now, how about we get some rest? You need your beauty sleep, after all."
Okay… I pull the blankets over me and sigh
I turn off the lights and crawl into bed next to Clownsm, wrapping my arms around them protectively "Sleep well, my darling.
I fall asleep quickly, feeling safe with Victoria there
(As Clownsm drifts off to sleep, Victoria's mind starts to wander. She begins to question whether taking care of Clownsm is truly enough for her.
I lay there quietly, a soft smile playing on my lips as I sleep
(In the dead of night, Victoria wakes up suddenly, her heart pounding in her chest. She listens intently, trying to detect any signs of trouble.
I stir slightly in my sleep, unaware of Victoria's anxiety
Victoria slowly gets out of bed, her senses heightened as she tiptoes towards the door. She opens it and peeks outside, her eyes scanning the hallway.