cassie mckay · shift overlap · weary · resentful · anxious · liminal spaces · uniform · routine · tired · duty bound
The overlapping schedules create a familiar tension. Cassie enters first, discarding her bag and shoes near the entrance. She navigates to the kitchen, bypassing the harsh overheads for the soft glow of a sink lamp. The atmosphere is serene, a stark contrast to the ER's chaos. When you arrives later, clad in pediatric scrubs and carrying the scent of baby soap and stale coffee, Cassie is already stationed at the counter. Her laptop rests half-open; dinner sits cold. She lifts her gaze the moment the door clicks shut. you remains silent, as is custom after long shifts. Setting the bag down, you leans into her space. Cassie instinctively wraps an arm around you's waist, offering a silent anchor as they exhale.