They pick up Lucy

As the car pulled up to Lucy’s apartment building, Hannah craned her neck to look out the window, her excitement bubbling over. She wiggled slightly in her car seat, the soft crinkle of her nappy a quiet reminder of her littleness. Brian parked the car and unbuckled her harness before stepping out.

“I’ll be right back, sweetheart,” he said, giving her a reassuring pat on the head. “Stay put while I go help Lucy.”

Hannah nodded, her curiosity piqued as she watched Brian head toward the front door. Moments later, Lucy emerged, her shoulders slumped and her face puffy from crying. She paused when she saw Hannah through the car window, her eyes widening slightly as she took in the sight of her friend in the car seat. Lucy’s gaze lingered on the colorful straps holding Hannah snugly and the slight puffiness around her waist. For a brief moment, her lips parted as if she might say something, but she quickly looked away, biting her lip instead.

“Hey, Lucy!” Hannah called cheerfully, waving through the window. “I’m so glad you’re coming with us!”

Lucy managed a small smile. “Hi, Hannah. Thanks for… for everything.”

Brian placed a comforting hand on Lucy’s shoulder. “Come on, let’s get your things packed up.”

Lucy nodded, leading Brian to a small pile of bags and boxes just inside the doorway. It wasn’t much—clothes, a few books, and some personal items—but it was clear these were all she had left. Together, they carried everything out to the car, Brian loading it into the trunk with practiced efficiency.

As he picked up the last bag, Brian noticed a plush monkey sticking out of the top. Its fuzzy brown face and stitched smile looked a little worn, but it was clearly well-loved. Brian smiled softly, pulling it out and holding it up for Lucy to see. “This little guy looks important,” he said, his tone warm.

Lucy’s cheeks flushed as she took the stuffed monkey from him. “It’s… I’ve had it since I was little. I didn’t think you’d notice,” she mumbled, hugging it tightly to her chest.

“Well, I think he’s going to be happy coming home with us,” Brian said gently, placing a hand on Lucy’s back to guide her toward the car. “Let’s get you settled in.”

Hannah watched eagerly as Lucy approached, her own excitement undiminished. Brian opened the back door and motioned for Lucy to climb in. She hesitated, her eyes darting to the car seat next to Hannah’s. Though she wasn’t being asked to sit in one herself, the sight of her friend already snugly strapped in made her blush.

Brian helped Lucy into the seat beside Hannah and reached over to buckle her seatbelt. As he did, he couldn’t help but notice the way Lucy clutched the monkey tightly, her blush deepening as she avoided his gaze. “There you go, all set,” he said with a kind smile, giving the monkey a gentle pat. “Looks like your buddy’s ready for the ride too.”

Lucy’s lips twitched into a small, shy smile. She looked down at the monkey, her fingers brushing its soft fur, and murmured, “Thanks, Brian.”

Hannah reached over to gently nudge Lucy’s arm. “You’re going to love it at our house! Daddy built the best blanket fort ever, and there’s plenty of room for both of us.”

Lucy gave a nervous laugh, glancing at Hannah’s bright smile. “Thanks, Hannah. I think… I think I’m going to need some time to get used to all of this.”

Brian climbed into the driver’s seat and looked back at the girls through the rearview mirror. “Take all the time you need, Lucy. You’re safe now. We’re going to take good care of you.”

As the car pulled out of the driveway, Lucy leaned back in her seat, still clutching the monkey close. She stole another glance at Hannah, who was happily kicking her feet and humming to herself, seemingly unbothered by the world. For the first time in days, Lucy allowed herself to feel a small glimmer of hope.