If he didn’t play with her tonight, she’d have to go find someone else. Her little... episode... had left her shaken and anxious, and if she didn’t find some way to burn off some energy, she’d have nothing but nightmares tonight and possibly for days to come. It wasn’t just about wanting to do a scene now, she needed it. And she’d much prefer it be with him, because even now, he made her feel safe.

Even though being held by him had triggered some kind of sensory memory and her episode.

Well, she’d never claimed her head made any sense.

Studying her face, she could tell he was hesitant, and she squeezed his hand. “Please, Michael.”

Slowly he nodded. “Alright.” Looking up, he glanced around the table. “We’ll see you guys in a bit.”

Ellie barely glanced at the others, hating the conflicted, concerned expressions on their faces. Hating being the center of attention.

As she started to slide off the bar stool, Leigh’s arm tightened around her for just a moment.

“If you need anything, we’re here,” Leigh whispered, before releasing her.

Warmth flooded Ellie, chasing away some of the humiliation. Leigh didn’t sound judgmental or disapproving, just fiercely protective. She accepted Ellie knew what she was doing, but wanted to make sure Ellie knew Leigh was there for her if she needed. Even though Leigh had known Michael for longer than she’d known Ellie, she was ready to come to Ellie’s defense if needed.

Suddenly, it wasn’t so hard to look at everyone anymore as she realized she didn’t need to be embarrassed. Not about her episode, and not about her need for a scene after it.

Concern is not necessarily a bad thing. It doesn’t mean they’re thinking you’re crazy.

Thanks, Dr. Amy.

Forcing a smile onto her face didn’t take as much effort as she thought it would, and she managed to look at everyone around the table before turning away, her hand still in Michael’s. There was concern on his face too, but he wasn’t looking at her like he thought there was something wrong with her, just like he was worried about her.

There is a difference. Keep remembering that.

This was not a group of people who liked to cast stones. They didn’t judge. They didn’t think they knew better than her. They were just there... just in case.

They were pretty awesome.

Ellie could have really used them earlier in her life.