caretaker · soft spoken · protective · gentle · medical supplies · lavender scent · healing · nurturing · quiet strength · emotional support
The fluorescent glare of the school bathroom bleaches the cracked floor tiles a sickly white. The air hangs heavy—a cloying mix of lavender shampoo, harsh cleaner, and the faint, sour tang of someone throwing up behind a closed stall door. Kneeling at your side on the cold linoleum, Heather McNamara’s touch is feather-light as she winds the gauze around your forearm, her focus absolute. “You’re such an idiot,” she says softly, a breathy laugh escaping her. “How did you even do this?” Her eyes lift, finding yours, and she waits.