Realistic or Modern Family Ties

[half-blood prince]

Kat flinched almost immediately hearing laughter from her elder but she didn't seem annoyed with her words at least. Not really and she seemed amused sort of by the thought that she was pretty. Except that she was really pretty and Kat..well she didn't think herself to be. Looking down at herself very aware of the scars that littered her back and other areas of her body. She wasn't anywhere near as pretty as Kennedy was in her mind. Hearing her telling that it was story time and it took a while to get herself this good looking. Tilting her head to the side as she leaned back giving Kat just that little more space between them. Her hair falling back down covering the scar again as Kat backed up just a little bit. Settling her mess of blankets watching nervously as she grabbed the medical kit though made no move to come any closer or demand her hands. Surprised yet again that she wasn't being yelled at for not following orders. But there really hadn't been much of an order to her. Then again, she still didn't really know what the rules of this home were either.

For the time being though Kat was reasonably calm though her body was a far cry from relaxed. The moment there was a perceived threat and she wouldn't hesitate to return to the far corner once more. It was a small win if anything who had yet to relax much at all. Granted, she had almost certainly worn herself out with crying and the panic attack. Not that she felt like sleeping while there was still someone in her room. Making a note to herself to sleep light just in case someone tried to sneak up on her in the middle of the night. Only to realize that the lady was talking again telling her about being born a man which surprised Kat who'd never been anyone like this. Even though most of her gaze was to the floor or her lap, she was listening. Hearing about Kennedy's struggles with finding out who was and how her brother wasn't very nice to her. So it was normal then? Her social worker didn't seem to think it was. Hearing as she had to run away from her home and about meeting Eva at the bar they now owned.

That sounded really nice, but Kat didn't think that had anything to do with her. All her life she had been called freak or 'that girl' or anything else other than her name. To hear her name at all was rather jarring to Kathleen a lot of the time. Still was if the panic attack was anything to go by as she looked at her hands again. Hearing her say that things got better eventually and she'd come to see that too. Not sure she believed that right now or that Kennedy would help her if she let her. Yet, that scar was hard to ignore or fake so maybe she did know something about what she went through. It was something to consider at least, but she still didn't trust anyone much at all. She'd learned long ago not to trust on a whim even if they claimed to have the best intentions at heart. Going for the simple nod of her head though she made no move to go closer or open up any further. A small yawn escaping her lips despite her attempts to obscure it from the lady's vision.

She really wanted to sleep, but she didn't want to do that until she was safe and she didn't feel safe right now. She didn't like having people close by when she slept despite how she may have felt when she was younger. If anything her desires of love and support had been trampled upon by each new home she was placed in. Well aware though that the woman probably still expected to clean her hands, she didn't like that. Thinking she could maybe do it herself before realizing that the lady had the medical kit now. So even if she had wanted to do it herself it'd mean going closer to the woman. A far worse scenario that simply letting her hands being looked at. Biting her lip again as she tried to decide what she would rather face, though being tired wasn't making the situation any better. Torn between her self-preservation and the desire to have her hands looked at.

 

[PunkPrince]

Kathleen gave little reaction as Kennedy spoke, but she was clearly still listening. Still afraid, still not coming any closer, but listening. So she chose to add on something else. "I know you're afraid, Kat. And I know you don't trust us. I know you think you're bad and you don't deserve love and acceptance, but you're wrong. You deserve love and kindness just the same as everyone else does. I know you don't believe me when I tell you things will get better. But they will. I promise."

Kennedy's gaze softened further as she caught Kat trying to hide the yawn. "Tired?" she asked. She cast a look down at Kathleen's hands again, and then looked back at the tube of medicine in her own hand. She held it and the band-aids out to the girl. "If you won't let me clean your hands up, how about this? You can clean your hands up so I don't have to touch you, and I'll clean up the floor, hm?" Kennedy pulled herself to her feet and turned to head out of the bedroom. "And then I'll leave you be and you can take a nap before dinner if you want to."

She returned after a few moments, and set to work cleaning the floor. She'd cleaned bigger messes than this before, and the hardwood floors made cleaning significantly easier. She finished cleaning the mess and returned to the doorway, glancing back over her shoulder at the girl. "Get some rest," she told her gently. "Someone will come and get you when it's time for dinner...is there anything special you like? I know you probably don't get special meals very often, but you can choose tonight if you want. Eva's a wonderful cook. She can whip up just about anything you'd want."

 

[half-blood prince]

Kat had remained fairly calm as Kennedy talked to her about her past giving her something to think about. She still didn't think that they were on the same level, but the scar was curious. She wanted to ask more about it but didn't want to risk upsetting her or having her angry. Instead, keeping her mouth shut and eyes on the floor as Kennedy spoke up once more. Still, using that really soft tone that she could see her coming to enjoy. Not that she expected to be able to stay here long enough, but it was a nice thought at least. Looking up through her mess of hair as she mentioned that she knew she was probably scared right now. That she probably didn't even really trust them either which was true. Tilting her head with puzzlement as Kennedy explained how even though she may think she was bad and undeserving of anything that it wasn't true. That she did deserve love and kindness...whatever those things were just like everyone else. Promising that over time things would come to be better as she said nothing to the contrary.

Snapping her head up from hiding her yawn when Kennedy asked her if she was tired. A blush creeping up on her face as she had tried really hard to cover it up. At first, drawing back when her hands started moving only to see her offering to let her heal herself. Now that she could definitely do as she hesitantly took the bandaids and cream from her. Still keeping an eye on her in case she chose to grab her anyways or take them away. When she didn't though, she helped herself to only the smallest amount of both items. Not wanting to ruin good things that cost money just barely hearing Kennedy compromising that if she would at least see to her hands herself, then she wouldn't touch her and clean up the mess herself. That was...strange, but it was as good a compromise as Kat ever got as she nodded her head in acceptance. Flinching a little as Kennedy moved to stand up once more and walked out of the room. Kat's head poking around the corner of the bed to watch her go curiously.

This wasn't anything like any of the homes she'd been in so far. She wasn't sure whether she liked it being different though as she tended to her hands best she felt safe enough to do. It wasn't probably as much as she should be doing for them, but it would be enough. The cream felt nice on her hands at least skittering back to her corner though when she came back in to clean up the mess. At first thinking, she would clean it herself, but no there the woman was doing it herself. What an odd family? Moving to set the things back on the table where they had been before to show she was done. They looked a little better at least though a good cleaning probably would have done better. Not that Kat would dare to move anywhere near the washroom right now. Another thing she knew better than to waste as she watched the woman clean up the vomit. Still feeling really bad but soon enough the floor was clean once more leaving no trace of there ever being an accident. A small smile on her face in appreciation as she watched once more the woman leaving again.

Kat once again poking her head around the corner of her chosen spot as Kennedy left her room once more. Tensing as she spoke up insisting that she should try and rest if she could and someone would collect her for dinner. Right...dinner...she was supposed to cook that right? Feeling her heart sinking once more though she didn't let Kennedy see the look of sadness wash on her face. Confused when she offered her yet again what she wanted for dinner tonight. It was tempting to ask for something, but then again she was lucky to get anything at this point. Knowing her luck she'd get a piece of moldy bread and water again. So she simply shrugged her shoulder and shook her head no because, in reality, she didn't know if she even had a favorite. Truthfully, she wasn't even sure she wanted to come down for dinner to watch the others eat in front of her.

It was only once the lady had left the room that Kat slowly snuck back over to the door of her room. Closing it once more just as she preferred before returning to the safety of her little spot. Figuring at least if someone came in then she would know because of the door opening. Leaving the lights off as she climbed into her make-shift bed on the floor out of sight of the door. It wasn't very comfy, but it was all Kat felt safe sleeping in for the moment. Grabbing her Mr.Midnight as well as she settled in to try and sleep. Taking a deep breath as she soon found herself letting exhaustion take over.

 

[PunkPrince]

Kennedy left the room and shut the door behind her, hoping that Kathleen really would get some rest. Ronan and Hugo had been exhausted on their first day home, asleep for most of it. They had struggled to maintain an appropriate sleep schedule. She knew that, while in foster homes he and Ronan had often slept in shifts, with one of them keeping watch. Their first night at home had been the first time in years they hadn't been terrified to sleep.

***
​

A few hours later, Jupiter headed up the stairs to retrieve Kathleen for dinner. They hoped she was feeling better, having heard most of her outbursts from downstairs. They stopped in front of the closed bedroom door, and gazed up at the door for a few moments before reaching out to lightly rap on it. "Kathleen?" they called quietly. " Are you awake in there? It's time for dinner. Eva made spaghetti. And garlic bread."

Jupiter turned and led the way downstairs without another word, their high heels clicking against the hardwood floor as they went. The smell of dinner immediately lured them back into the kitchen, where Eva was struggling to set the table with one hand and bring what food she had already prepared with the other. Jupiter ducked underneath her raised hand and took the large dish of spaghetti and meatballs over, placing it in the center of the table without being asked. They turned back to their mothers in the kitchen, and raised an eyebrow at the realization that their brothers were nowhere to be seen.

"Are they still downstairs?" Jupiter asked. "I thought at least Hugo would be upstairs already. Considering his response to food is equivalent to that of a rabid dog."
Ronan sauntered through the basement door then, followed shortly after by Hugo, who paused to stick his tongue out at Jupiter before taking his usual seat at the table and beginning to pile noodles onto his plate. Jupiter caught sight of Eva and Kennedy watching Hugo pile food on his plate with amused expressions. They knew as well as Jupiter did that the boy would wolf it down in seconds.

Jupiter paused, taking a deep breath in. The kitchen smelled wonderful. It always did when it was Eva's turn to make dinner. They sat down at their usual spot, waiting for Hugo to finish with the plate before taking some food for themself.

"You've got paint all over your hands." Eva directed this to Jupiter, whose fingers were streaked with red and blue paint. Jupiter smirked as they spun their fork through the noodles on their plate.
"Lucky its not in my hair," Jupiter answered. "It'll wash off eventually. I finally finished painting my coat."
Eva smiled. "Good," she said. "You'll have to bring it up to show me once it's dried. You've been slaving over it for weeks."

 

[half-blood prince]

God, she didn't remember having ever slept this long or well for the longest time. Not unless she counted the nights spent in her social worker's office. Of course, a few times she would wake up hearing noises she wasn't used to. Still, she managed to get some sleep at least until she was startled by the sound of a knock at her door. Jolting her from whatever peace she had finally come to enjoy since being left alone. Looking around for several minutes until her memory reminded her that she was in a new home today. Just as a voice on the other side inquired if she was up and that dinner was spaghetti and garlic bread. It sounded amazing to Kat, but she doubted she'd be allowed to have some. Looking at the time to realize she must have overslept and might get punished for not having food ready at the table. That seemed to kick her into gear at least glad that the shirt she wore was long-sleeved to hide her scars. Her hands still hurt a little as did her back which would likely need many more cleanings as the days went on. Although she really hoped that the two women might forget about her back altogether.

It sure smelled good out there as she considered leaving the safety of her room or not. She had been asked to dinner, but it didn't seem to be a demand for once. Really, she wasn't sure she wanted to watch her family eat dinner while she couldn't have any. Hearing footsteps retreat from her closed door and head down the stairs leaving her alone once more. She was getting to be a little hungry, but she didn't know what the protocol for it was for her. Shifting uneasily as she debated leaving her spot which at least for now seemed to be a safety zone of some kind. Then again, it would mean having all eyes on her which she really didn't like either. She seemed to debate with herself for a little while before the need to be respectful overpowered her. Opening her door hesitantly as she poked her head out of the room seeing nobody was around. Leaving the door open on the basis that if things got to be bad she could just hide up in her room again. Worried about whether or not they would be upset not having dinner ready for them. She shouldn't have let herself overslept but somehow she had as she inched forward.

Taking things slowly, her muscles tense and quite sore from the stress she'd put herself through. Eyes on high alert as she slowly made her way downstairs hearing voices already talking amongst themselves. Not really able to make out any of it but it seemed pleasant enough. Still a bit uneasy as she cautiously made her way down the steps. Bracing every so often to see if someone might correct her about being out of bed. The smells becoming much stronger as she made the last step of the stairs down. Her mouth-watering just thinking about all that lovely food she'd probably not even be able to sample. Maybe later she could...no...no that wouldn't be right and she certainly would be punished for it. Sighing heavily as she followed the voices through the hallways keeping herself pressed against the wall as she poked around corners to avoid getting jumped upon. Listening to the chatter going on as she slowly emerged albeit very reluctantly into the room.

Feeling her stress spiking already as she stared at the lovely table with envy though it only registered for a moment. Quickly returning to a neutral mask as she searched the room nervously. Seeing an empty place setting but that had to be for some guest perhaps? Looking behind her though she didn't notice anyone else around. Shifting uneasily as she debated what she was to do in this situation. Certainly it didn't help that there were a lot of people at this table already and she still didn't really know any of them. She could see one of the boys stuffing his plate full of noodles which looked really good. What she wouldn't give to try that as such though she felt a little at a loss. Not to mention overwhelmed by the situation as she dropped her gaze deciding to head into the kitchen to start tidying up at the very least. That she could do as she saw a few items that probably needed to be cleaned like the cutting boards and such. Moving to run the water as she saw about preparing to wash the dishes that were already needing to be soaked and treated. Figuring maybe if she was good she could get some water to drink.

 

[PunkPrince]

Eva looked over to Kat, surprised to see the girl hesitate at the table and instead turn to the sink to start on the dishes. Did she honestly expect not to be fed? She wondered when the last time Kat had been fed a decent meal was.
“Hey,” Eva said. “Come sit down and eat. Kennedy can do the dishes later. I know it looks like Hugo could probably devour all of it, but there’s more than enough here. You can take as much as you like. I think it came out well. You can take whatever you want to drink from the fridge too, minus the alcohol.” She offered a gentle smile as she spoke.

Hugo pushed the plate back from him. “I won’t eat it all,” he promised. “I’ll just eat all the leftovers in a day unless someone else gets to them first.”
“I sense a challenge,” Ronan teased. “Maybe I’ll eat it before you.” Hugo only snorted in response, reaching out to give his brother a light shove.

Hugo had always eaten like he was being starved, and when Eva and Kennedy had first met the twins, they essentially, had been. She supposed that, now, Hugo ate that way because of some subconscious fear. He, deep down, was fearful of being deprived food again. So he ate to sustain himself, to be able to go longer periods without food. And no matter how much he ate, the boy rarely, if ever, gained any weight. Part of it, was his growth having been stunted from years of abuse, and part of it was a symptom of his cystic fibrosis. Both he and Ronan were short for their ages, but Hugo was exceptionally thin, and had always suffered poor growth. He was often hungry, and would eat just about anything he was offered with enthusiasm

Ronan looked back to Juliette. “We set a place for you,” he told her.

 

[half-blood prince]

Kat was just starting to roll up her sleeves a tiny bit to start on the dishes when a voice called out her. Jolting her from her focus as she flinched a little wondering what she had done now. Was she may be supposed to wait for the family to finish and then clean them? Looking over at the table and then at the soapy dishes that she had just started to clean. Taken aback when Eva told her to come and sit down at the table to eat. Shifting uneasily as she looked at the delicious food, but surely she wasn't allowed to touch it right? Maybe this was another test of some kind to see how well she could hold out before succumbing to thievery. Feeling her breathing hitching just that little bit as she debated what the right answer was right now. She was just turning to continue anyways when Eva told her that she could have as much as she wanted. That Hugo wouldn't really eat it all and she could have as much as she wanted. Taking what she wanted from the fridge except for the alcohol as Kat just about dropped the cutting board she was cleaning. Feeling herself on the very of a panic attack but she somehow managed to keep it from escalating.

Not really noticing the gentle smile on Eva's face as she was too distracted keeping herself from another panic attack. One was more than enough already even if Kennedy was extremely nice about it. Distracted momentarily by the sounds of the two siblings talking about who would eat the leftovers first. So much for getting the crumbs after the family was done by the sounds of it. Listening to things between them that seemed to at least really love each other. Hugo at least seemed much better since last she remembered seeing him after he grabbed her by the shoulders. Still feeling just the slightest bit guilty, but she hated being grabbed without warning and getting stuck in the corner was even worse. Swallowing once more though as Ronan told her that they had left a place for her. Tilting her head once more as she looked at the spot she thought was reserved for a guest. Was it really her spot or would they dump her off the chair once she sat down? Playing with her fingers a little as she tried to decide if the pros outweighed the cons. Then again, she really hadn't had something this nice for a while and her social worker had only fed her very bland meals.

This was getting to be overwhelming for Kat who really just had no idea what the answer was. Apart of her wanted to go join the family and eat the food, but the larger part screamed it was too risky. Her mouth was watering with all the stimulation around her. Noticing what appeared to be the end of the garlic bread roll on the counter likely to be thrown out in the garbage. It didn't look like there was anything wrong with it though as she looked between her 'parents' and then at the piece of bread. Against her better judgment, Kathleen hesitantly moved to reach out and grab the less desired piece of bread before exiting the room to head back upstairs once more. Not wanting to risk the chance of getting smacked for taking food that wasn't offered. It wouldn't be much either, but she had sustained on small amounts before as she quickly headed back to her room to eat it in peace.

 

[PunkPrince]

Eva watched Kat, who seemed to be contemplating the offer. Her eyes darted about the room before settling on of the heel of the loaf of bread, which still sat, untouched, on the cutting board. She stared at it before darting forward, grabbing it, and scuttling back off up the stairs once more. Eva let out a small sigh. There was no way Kat wasn't hungry, and despite her trying not to show it, the ravenous look in her eyes as she'd stared at that food had confirmed it. And there was no way that Eva was letting her go to bed having only eaten a measly bit of bread. Absolutely not.

So she stood up, took Kathleen's plate from its spot at the table and wordlessly began to fill it with noodles and meatballs and a couple of slices of garlic bread before heading up the stairs. She stopped at Kathleen's closed bedroom door and stared at it for a few moments before leaning down to set the plate on the floor just outside. Eva reached out, hesitated for a moment, and then lightly rapped on the closed door. "Kat?" she called gently. "I brought you some food."

"I'm not gonna come in," Eva promised. "But I'm also not letting you to go to bed hungry. So I'm just going to leave the plate right here, and you can eat it and bring it back downstairs when you've finished, okay? And if you change your mind and want to eat with us, you're more than welcome to." She remained silent for a moment or two, and then added, "I know you're afraid. You don't have to talk to any of us if you don't want to. But it would make me happy if you at least ate a proper dinner." And then she stepped back, lingering for a couple of seconds before descending the staircase.

 

[half-blood prince]

The moment the bread was snatched from the counter, she immediately returned to the safety of her bedroom. Hoping that she may not get in trouble for taking the scraps at the very least. It wasn't exactly desirable given it had laid untouched by the rest of the family. Closing her bedroom door as she returned to her spot on the floor beside her bed. Taking down small mouthfuls of the bread that were definitely better than she was used to. She really wanted that dinner, but she was too distrustful to think she'd be allowed any part of it. Then again, she didn't really think she could get any of it down without being sick. But maybe that was what they wanted of her. Hmm, that didn't seem to fit this family though or at least not Kennedy. Not that she would go so far as to say she trusted the older woman, but she did think she was nice. Nicer than she probably deserved as she took small mouthfuls of the bread into her mouth. Making sure to avoid any crumbs or sort of mess, not that Kat left crumbs if rarely.

It felt heavy in her stomach but it would have to do for the time being at least as she finished it off. She probably should have saved some for later, but she was pretty hungry. Figuring she could always find some more scraps to eat later when nobody was looking. Berating herself for not getting herself some water at least, but she also didn't know where cups or plates might be. Figuring she'd have to scout that out later when everyone was out or in bed. Pondering the massively growing list of things she needed to do when she tensed. Hearing the sounds of footsteps making their way upstairs as she darted for the corner. Even trying to squish herself under the bed somehow, but she was just too big for that to work. Her breathing hitching as she waited for the door to open yet it never did. Hearing something being placed on the floor beside her door making her frown in confusion. It didn't sound like she was being locked in, but it didn't sound good either.

Biting her lip again as she nervously poked her head around the corner waiting for the inevitable door to open. It did not, but the feet behind it continued to linger for a while longer. Hearing a gentle knock on her door followed by the sounds of her name and that food had been brought to her. That was different. Not something she had ever seen before but maybe they were mad she hadn't stayed with them. Or that they wanted to see that she was in her room so as not to be seen or heard. Confusion appearing on her face when Eva explained that she wouldn't come in, but she also didn't want to see her go hungry. This family was really going out of there way to confuse the young girl. First no punishments, then no chores, then being treated for injuries and now food. This had to be the longest game of trickery or this was maybe just possibly really happening.

Pulled from her thoughts by Eva telling her that she had left the food on her doorstep to eat and then bring downstairs. Offering once more for her to eat with the rest of the family, but Kat didn't think she was ready to test that out. The food did smell really good, however, but she didn't want to get in trouble for not eating it all. Maybe she could just eat a small amount and that would be acceptable. Except, wasn't it just as wrong to eat nice dinner and then have it end up on the floor? She could hear Eva retreating downstairs as she thought about maybe writing a little note since she didn't feel comfortable verbalizing it. Grabbing a little notepad that her social worker had gotten ever since she stopped talking and writing 'I get sick eating more than some bread and water...don't want to waste food'. Maybe not the best handwriting ever, but it would have to do as she opened the door and picked up the food. Hesitantly carrying it to the stairs as she stepped down nervously as she waited for Eva to see her before handing her back the plate and the note. Dropping her head down to stare at her feet wondering what sort of punishment this would earn her.

 

[PunkPrince]

She received no verbal response from Kathleen, though Eva could practically feel the fear and confusion coming through the door in waves. Heading down the stairs, the woman paused as she heard the bedroom door creak and quick, anxious footsteps patter across the floor. Turning, she caught sight of Kat staring at her, with the still full plate and a note in her hands. Eva took a few steps back up the steps toward the chid before reaching out to take the note. Unfolding it, she scanned it for a minute or two before looking back up at Kat.

Was that really true? Her social worker had never told them anything about it, and if that was really all she could have, surely someone would have let them know. And she'd looked so hungry in the kitchen just minutes before. Perhaps she wasn't feeling well? And then Eva realized that the girl hadn't taken a drink before she had run off, so she turned and made her way quickly into the kitchen. She poured Kat a glass of water before returning and holding the cup out to her. "Here," she said. She waited for the girl to take it from her, and then sat down on the step.

"I understand if that's really the case," Eva assured her. "I can get you more bread if you want it. I don't want you to spend the night hungry. But if not, and you just aren't ready to eat right now, that's all right too. I can wrap the plate up and put it in the fridge for you and you can eat it later if you want. I promise I'll make sure Hugo doesn't eat it." She smiled as she spoke the last sentence. She knew the boy wouldn't really touch it, not if it was for someone else, but she wanted to reassure Kat anyway that the food would be there for her whenever she felt ready to eat it. "How does that sound?"

 

[half-blood prince]

She wasn't sure if that was the right thing to do, but she didn't really want to waste food either. Surely, her not wanting to waste food would be received as smart rather than wrong. Even if the food did look really nice and certainly smelled good, she didn't want to throw it up either. Seeing Eva turning around as she came down part of the way very cautious and nervous in her approach with her plate and note. Making sure not to fall because that would definitely not look good after all the trouble she'd gone to in helping her. She'd never really had someone look after her like this though she was still skeptical about it being genuine care and not just some trick to get mad at her later. Just about stumbling back when Eva moved towards her before remembering that she'd initiated this moment between them. Reminding herself that she wasn't going to hurt her...at least maybe not right now. Her hand nervously holding the plate and note out though it was clear she was ready to draw it back at a moment's notice.

Waiting for her to read the note felt like an eternity to Kathleen as she shifted uneasily on the stair. Torn between dashing back upstairs or staying and seeing how much trouble this would cost her. Kennedy didn't seem to want to hit her, but then that was her and this was her other mother, Eva. For all she knew, Eva would be the one punishing her during her time here at the house. A tremor going through her whole body at the thought as she took an extra step back to put additional space between them. She didn't seem upset by the note, but she didn't seem pleased either. Dropping her head down in shame thinking that maybe she'd done wrong. Hearing footsteps retreating down the stairs as she lifted her head feeling almost bad watching the food disappear. Wanting to reach out and grab the plate anyways even if it meant throwing it up. It looked so good but no Eva was gone and Kat stood there uneasily wondering what to do. Hearing the sink run downstairs before Eva was coming back to her once more offering her a glass of water.

A genuine smile appeared on her face at the sight of a glass of water as Kat reached greedily for it. Yet, quickly drew back as though burned and then slowly reached for it once more. As though stopping herself from snatching it out of the lady's hand. It was such a simple thing, but to Kat, it was as good a reward as ever in her eyes. Practically lighting up the way she took the water like it was some treat or prize to have won. Taking a few greedy sips of the water only to tense as Eva sat down on the stair watching her. Making her wonder if she was making sure she didn't break or steal the glass. Looking at the almost empty glass as Eva spoke up insisting that if she needed bread she could have that. That she didn't want to see her go to bed without eating. Blinking a few times as Eva said that since she just about always had in the last house she was in. They practically held food over her head as a reward that was just out of her reach at all times.

One house had simply not fed her for a week straight before her social worker found out and took her away. So it really wasn't surprising for Kat to leave some nights without food. So to hear that someone didn't WANT her to go to bed hungry, was a fairly foreign concept to her. Hearing her mention that she could also just as well leave the food in the kitchen fridge until she was hungry. Promising that Hugo wouldn't touch her plate if she simply didn't want to eat it at THAT moment. Again confused by this line of thinking and fighting against every concept of 'family' she'd come across in her years in the system. She wanted to just write it down what she wanted, but that meant leaving and possibly having the offer be declined because it came too late. Figuring she wanted a verbal answer which wasn't something Kat was used to do as she dropped her head.

"J...Ju..Just bread....m...moldy...is fine too...freaks...freak don't deserve...freaks aren't allowed good food," replied Kat quite robotically in that still rough and very disused voice that hadn't been heard in years. As though she was quoting it from something drilled into her head for years. Looking away in shame as she looked away from Eva moving to set the almost finished glass down in front of where she sat as she took another step back from Eva. Afraid of being punished for speaking or simply requesting something other than what was being offered.

 

[PunkPrince]

When Eva returned with the water, Kathleen's face lit up in a real, genuine smile, and it was all Eva could do to stop herself from beaming. A real smile! Progress. Tiny, but progress nonetheless. And then she spoke, and Eva felt her heart break for what felt like the millionth time that day. Kat really thought she didn't deserve food. She genuinely thought that she was so broken, that there was something so deeply wrong within her, that she was undeserving of even the most basic necessities for survival.

Eva reached out to slowly take the plate from Kathleen as she milled over what the girl had just said to her. She could address that when she came back. For now, her first priority was getting the girl fed. Giving a small nod of acknowledgement, Eva took the dish back to the kitchen, wrapped it up in plastic wrap, and stuck it in the fridge. Kathleen had appeared adamant that she wasn't going to eat it, but Eva left it for her anyway, just in case she changed her mind.

Eva turned back to the now vacated table, which was now mostly empty apart from the basket of bread, which still contained several slices. Eva took the basket in her arms and made her way back over to the stairs where Kathleen still remained. Settling back down onto her step, she passed the basket to Kat, still thinking about what the girl had told her before she had left.

“First of all,” Eva began, looking Kathleen in the eyes as she spoke. Her expression was stern, but gentle. "I am not feeding you moldy food. Even if you were a freak, you'd still deserve food. But you absolutely are not a freak. Why would you say something like that?"

 

[half-blood prince]

She didn't seem angry at least for being told she wouldn't be eating her lovely meal. That had to be something at least not aware of Eva for the moments of looking at her glass of water. Sort of regretting not taking her time just in case she wouldn't be allowed anymore. She couldn't help it, the water felt good after throwing up earlier and she was really thirsty too. Thinking about how much trouble it would be to ask about another glass of water, but she didn't. Instead, she just studied the last of it as it rested in her glass untouched. An odd thing to get excited about but, that was how things went for Kat. The things people took for granted, were the things that made a real impact on her life. Not seeing the impact her words were having on the woman in front of her. Surprised actually that the woman didn't seem to know that rule. Most of the other families seemed to know it well or if they didn't they sure picked it up soon enough. They see. They always did eventually realize that Kathleen was a freak and not something worth keeping around.

It was a lesson she had come to learn well sadly over the years as she let the woman take her plate. Still very hesitant to present anything forward and it was clear that this was already was more stress on her. Watching Eva nod through her mess of long brown hair as she took the plate away from her. Kat giving it a longing look as it disappeared from her view, but it was better this way. She just hoped she hadn't screwed up her only chance to get something to eat. Even if she got punished or neglected, so long as she was fed she could live with it. She just hoped that she could find ways to earn her keep somehow. Promising to do better about making dinner next night since she was a guest here. She didn't know what the others might like, but she'd try to do something. Listening as always as Eva presumably moved about the kitchen likely throwing the food away. A shame really as she didn't mean to have her do that only to hear the fridge close. Thinking maybe she was supposed to go back to her bedroom now but she hadn't exactly been dismissed either.

Surprisingly pleased, however, when Eva returned once more carrying what looked like a basket in her hands. Her eyes lighting up to see there were some slices of bread inside it. It wasn't even moldy but fresh by the looks of it as Kat seemed to perk up at the sight. Her mouth-watering just the faintest though she was still wary of her mother. Fingers itching to get at it but she refrained from outright grabbing the food flat out. It was rude and disrespectful not to mention it was something akin to a wild animal. She should be just grateful to even get such nice food eying Eva as she slowly sat back down on the step. Almost groaning thinking that her food was going to be held onto like a prize to be earned. Instead, to her great delight, she merely sat and passed over the basket in an offering. Kat eying her carefully for several long minutes as though deciding whether or not to trust this.

It seemed hours, but eventually the urge to eat overweighed her desire to be safe as she reached cautiously for the basket. Her eyes focused solely on the prize of food as she held the basket protectively in her arms. Thinking about racing back up the stairs to hoard it away in her room. Yet, she didn't as she backed off a few stairs to sit down herself. Guarding it with her life as she took up a piece and started gingerly taking bites of it in her mouth. Savouring every mouthful that she could only to flinch when Eva spoke up. Ducking her head immediately catching the somewhat stern look on her mother's face as she spoke. Looking down at her food wondering if she'd have to give it back now making her want to tear up. Hearing Eva insist that she was not about to give her moldy bread saying that even if she were a freak she deserved food too. Yet, somehow insisting that she wasn't a freak which gave Kat pause for a moment. Stuffing a piece of bread into her mouth as she did so as she tilted her head. She wasn't a freak? That didn't seem right to her as she thought about it.

Only to look down at the bread when she heard Eva asking her about why she thought she was. Not sure what the answer was she was supposed to give. Far as she knew, she had just always been 'freak' to most of her families. Her social worker called her Kathleen as did anyone at the agency and the doctor or she likely would have never made the connection to it being her name. Playing with the piece of bread currently in her hands as she debated whether she had to make an actual verbal response or not. The urge to just run upstairs and leave this conversation was undeniable. She thought about shrugging but it seemed like she really wanted an answer and she had just gotten her food.

"Part of the rules," supplied Kathleen as she took another piece of bread into her mouth greedily. Well aware that she shouldn't eat too fast or she'd make herself sick, but God did it feel so nice to eat something. She'd had a burger on the drive here, but of course, she ended up sick on the side of the road for her troubles. Her social worker hadn't been very happy about it though he didn't say anything to the contrary. It seemed she was torn between stuffing it down fast and eating it civilized like.

 

[PunkPrince]

As Eva returned with the bread, she could practically see Kathleen's mouth watering at the sight. Extending a hand, she waited for what felt like hours as Kat stared down at the basket, seemingly contemplating wether or not to take it. The child accepted the bread eventually, taking small, timid bites before ravenously starting on her next piece. Garlic bread and water was by no means a proper meal, but it was far better than nothing. At least she was eating.

"Well it's not part of the rules in this house," Eva told her. "You're not a freak. You're someone that's been through a lot, and had a lot of bad things happen to you. I think you've gone through lot of trauma, and you shouldn't have had to. But that doesn't make you a freak. It reflects more on the people who hurt you than it does on you yourself. It's gonna hurt for a while, and that's okay. You can hurt for as long as you need to. But eventually, you'll get better."

Silently resting her chin in her hand, Eva finally spoke again. “You want to know what I think?” she questioned. “I think you’ve spent far too long around terrible people who didn’t see your worth and didn’t treat you right. And that doesn’t mean there’s anything wrong with you. It means that, unfortunately, sometimes people suck. And when families suck, sometimes you have to go out and build yourself a new one. I did it, Kennedy did it, our kids did it, most of our friends have had to do it. You can do it too.” She offered a gentle smile. “And whether you believe it or not, you’re a part of this family now. And in this house we take care of each other.”

 

[half-blood prince]

The bread tasted so good in her poor stomach as she made sure not to leave any crumbs. All too quickly though she was becoming full but she managed to get at least a third piece of the five in there into her mouth. Reluctantly having to give back the basket even if she was already regretting that extra piece of garlic bread. Just hoping that she might not make herself sick eating it even if her stomach was churning. Taking the last sip of water she had in hopes it might settle her stomach, though this was definitely more than she'd eaten within the last week or so. She hadn't thankfully stayed nearly as long in the last home as some of her others. Though it was definitely on par for being one of the worst homes she had to endure. Definitely not as bad as house number four though she knew she should be grateful in every home she was in. That even if she got punished, at least she wasn't on the streets where she could get killed. Looking sadly at the empty glass though but didn't ask for anything more.

Thinking about heading back upstairs to her room only to be halted by Eva's voice again. Surprised when she insisted that it wasn't a rule of this house. Puzzling over that little tidbit of information for a few minutes. That was news to her as far as she was concerned, but she would try to remember it. She was good at remembering rules for the most part and if it meant water than she'd certainly try. Even if she wasn't sure that she agreed or believed it not to be the way things worked. Then again most of the houses had a few different rules here and there from what she'd gathered. Some preferred using her as a slave to do chores, others liked to pretend that they didn't even have a daughter when guests were around. It would take some getting used to, but she was good at adapting as she had come to find. Although she really wanted to ask what punishments she'd endure, it didn't feel polite to ask. Only to realize that Eva was still talking and she should be paying attention right now.

Just barely catching the remark about her not being a freak, as unlikely as that probably was. Insisting instead, that she was simply someone who just had a lot of bad luck. Almost apologizing for the 'trauma', not sure what that was, that she had been subjected to over the years. That it didn't make her a freak and was more about the people she'd grown up with herself. Telling her how it would hurt for a while, but things would get better. Again, not something she thought was true, but she did nod her head to acknowledge that she was listening at least. It was definitely a lot to think of at least, catching Eva shifting to put her head on her hand, initially causing Kat to flinch thinking she was about to be struck. Relaxing ever so slightly when she saw that she wasn't speaking again about how she didn't think she was a freak at all. That she just spent too much time around bad people making Kat frown and tilt her head? She had always thought that it was normal by this point, though she'd never exactly seen an option.

Trying to listen a little more though the food was making her queasy from overeating and more meals than she probably could handle. Not to mention, she was really tired and an absolute wreck after today's events. Only hoping that she didn't end up wetting the bed or having a nightmare in the night. Thinking about how she may want to consider sleeping in the closet as it looked pretty big. Pulled from her thoughts by Eva telling her that she was part of the family now. That they took care of one another in this house, again a really strange concept for her to grasp. Saying nothing as she stared one last time at the empty glass before slowly standing up and making her way back upstairs. Pausing as though debating whether or not she should use the washroom or not. Glancing back nervously towards Eva before slowly inching towards it anyways. Closing it as she quickly used the facilities mindful not to focus too much on the tub that was there. Finishing up quickly as she washed her hands thoroughly before exiting the room to head to her bedroom.

She thought about changing into something else, but she really only had two pairs of clothing, not wanting to ruin the stuff in the closet. Sighing gently as she closed her door before returning to her corner of the room. Getting under the blankets as she snuggled up close before slowly allowing herself to fall asleep. More out of exhaustion and nausea than any real desire to do so when she knew she could be jumped upon at any moment. Sighing gently as she thought about everything that had happened thus far, how different it all was, not to mention scary. Moving only to grab Mr. Midnight before hunkering down to sleep yet again.

 

[PunkPrince]

The house remained quiet, and eventually fell to silence as its occupants retreated to bed for the night. It remained silent for several hours, save for the occasional sound of someone waking, shuffling down the hall, or the stairs, and then returning up to bed.

And then Hugo started screaming.

It was Kennedy who woke first, and Eva sat up and glanced worriedly at her wife for a moment before they both got up and quickly headed down the hallway toward Hugo and Ronan's room. This was a semi-frequent occurrence. Hugo was prone to nightmares. Or becoming so exhausted and anxious he was unable to sleep at all. And hallucinations. Or all three at once. And as the pair reached the twin's room, Kennedy immediately realized that this was an all three at once sort of episode.

Hugo was crouched in the middle of the room, his eyes round and frightened. Ronan was sitting at the edge of his bed, attempting to coax his brother up off the floor. "There's nothing there," Ronan promised, slinking down off the bed and reaching out to place a hand on the smaller boy's back.
"Don't touch me!" Hugo shrieked, jerking away from his brother's touch. Ronan scrambled backwards, turning to stare desperately at his parents in the doorway. Kennedy stepped into the room and knelt down beside her son.

"I won't touch you," Kennedy promised. "What happened?"
"They're staring at me!" Hugo yelled, his small shape trembling as he spoke, eyes fixed on a spot across the bedroom. Kennedy never knew what "they" were, and Hugo had always struggled to describe them to her. He was far too frightened while he was hallucinating, and too anxious when he wasn't
Eva followed Kennedy into the bedroom, settling down beside her son. "Nothing is staring at you," she told him. She gingerly reached out to tilt his chin up so his eyes met hers. "Look at me," she told him. "I know it's scary, but nothing you see right now can hurt you."

Something flickered in the boy's gaze for a moment, and he turned back to face the wall for a moment. "Go away!" he screamed, clapping his hands over his ears and squeezing his eyes shut as his small form seemed to become even tinier. "I'm sorry! I won't do it again! Don't hurt me!"

Kennedy extended a hand, stopping just short of resting it on the boy's back. She leaned down so her eyes met his. "Look at me," she prompted. The boy hesitated, then looked up at her, tears streaming down his face. Kennedy extended a hand to him, which he grasped so tightly it actually hurt. Kennedy spoke again. "Who am I?"

"Kennedy," the boy squeaked, still trembling.
"Who are you?"
"Hugo."
She pointed towards Eva, who now knelt next to her. "Who's that?"
"Eva."
"Okay," Kennedy sighed. She stared at her son for a few moment and then asked another question. "My eyes. What color are they?"
Hugo remained silent for almost a full minute, blinking a few times before answering. "...bloodshot?"

His answer surprised Kennedy, who looked over at Eva for confirmation. Eva smiled a bit and shook her head. "Not bloodshot," she assured, before looking back at Hugo. "And bloodshot isn't a color. Try again."

Hugo squeezed his eyes closed, and then opened them again before exhaling shakily. "I...brown. They're brown." He shook his head a few times and glanced around, appearing somewhat stunned. Kennedy gently placed a hand on his back and the boy leaned forward, whimpering. "I'm sorry."
"You have nothing to be sorry for," Eva promised him, giving the boy's hair a gentle caress as she spoke.
Hugo sank into Kennedy's embrace, and if he had a retort, didnt give it.

"I'm so tired," he sobbed, still shaking almost violently.
"I know," Kennedy told him.
"I need something to help me sleep."
"You have medicine for that."
"It doesn't work!"

"But did you take it?" Eva asked. "It cant work if you don't take it."
Hugo responded with a barely visible shake of the head. Eva sighed and got up, disappearing to the bathroom for a moment before returning with a small white pill. "Here."

 

[half-blood prince]

The sudden scream was enough to wake Kat from her somewhat peaceful slumber. She had tossed and turned a good deal, at one point jarring her still healing back. Yet the scream was jarring as she woke with a start at first thinking that it was herself. Realizing thankfully however that it was not her as she then checked around to see if she had wet herself. The floor didn't feel wet so she was definitely saved this time around at least. Debating whether or not she should investigate, but then there were footsteps and voices that she decided best to leave it be. Not that it did anything to comfort her much as she considered what had happened. The worst-case scenario was that someone was being murdered, but somehow her mind decided that wasn't the solution. If anything it sounded like something that she would do when having a nightmare or flashback. By the sounds of it though, they were getting whoever had screamed to calm down at least. That was good as she cautiously poked her head around the corner.

Her door was still closed thankfully so nobody had come in here as far as she knew about it. Wetting her lips as she considered making her way to the washroom, but once more didn't want to risk being in trouble. Not to mention, her back felt like it was on fire again likely from when she hit it against the wall in her sleep. Mulling things over wondering if anyone would notice since they might be distracted by whoever had screamed. She truthfully didn't think that she'd get any more sleep anyways after that even if she definitely could use it. It was the most she'd had in her young life to have such an ability to do. Startled momentarily by something tapping against her window jolting her from her thoughts. Realizing soon enough that it was just some tree branches as she settled just the faintest bit. Still eying her closed-door weighing out the options of sneaking into the bathroom or not. Deciding to risk it she slowly crept from her 'bed' to make her way over to the door. Opening her door every so carefully making sure to avoid making too much noise.

Poking her head out cautiously as she glanced around seeing one of the doors further down was open. Likely one of her other foster siblings she supposed as she chewed her bottom lip. Testing her footing she slowly made her way into the bathroom, movements stiff and ready to dart at a moment's notice. Thankful that she hadn't been sick during the night as she had really enjoyed the tasty bread. Reminding herself that she'd still have to tread carefully as she was still fairly new to this family. Tiptoeing her way into the bathroom as she slowly closed the door gingerly behind her. The room pitched in total darkness as she felt her breathing hitch ever so slightly. Debating whether it was better to risk the light being on or the slight chance of being injured. Reluctantly, she turned the light on as she quickly relieved herself of a full bladder. Her limbs shaking as she waited it out before getting up and washing her hands again. Biting her lip though as she considered checking her back again.

It hadn't been cleaned in several hours and she was certain she had opened a few of them once more in her silent thrashing. A skill she felt quite proud of being able to control some level of her nightmare symptoms. Pushing the thoughts away avoiding the bathtub and mirror best she could. She tried to look for the bandaids and stuff that Eva had used earlier. Before realizing it was probably too good for the likes of her. Settling instead for some water but then realized she couldn't really reach her back. She really didn't want to have to call for any help though as she was already probably breaking a dozen rules. Deciding instead to return to her bedroom to avoid anymore trouble as she turned off the light to head back.

 

[PunkPrince]

"Don't leave me here," Hugo pleaded, his face still buried in Kennedy's shirt. "I can't sleep in here." He clung to her as he spoke, as though she might disappear at any moment. He took the pill after a moment and then leaned into his mother again. Kennedy ran her hand through her son’s hair and then spoke. “Of course not,” she assured him. She held Hugo for a few moments more and then stood, taking the boy in her arms and approaching her other son.

Kennedy reached out to Ronan and gently tousled his hair. “Go back to sleep,” she told him gently. “He’ll be fine. I’ll take care of him.” She slipped from the room with Hugo and the pair vanished down the stairs.

Eva reached out to hug Ronan, who still looked anxious, his eyes fixed worriedly on the staircase. “Get some rest,” she told him gently, leaning down to kiss him on the forehead before slipping from the room and slowly closing the door behind her. As she exited the room, a flicker of movement caught her eye from the bathroom. She took a small step forward and then realized what she was looking at.

“Kat?” she questioned gently. “Are you all right?”

 

[half-blood prince]

Kat was just turning the lights off in preparation to leave the bathroom and return to her bedroom. Only to startle when she saw that Eva had caught sight of her. Doing a double back as she opened her mouth thinking she might somehow explain herself. Yet, the words didn't seem to want to come out as she stumbled back a bit. Keeping some very maintained distance between them both to where she couldn't be touched. Shifting uneasily as she tried to figure out something to say or do as she glanced between Eva and her bedroom door just out of reach. She couldn't exactly play the mute card anymore not really given Eva had heard her speak once or twice no. Kennedy had probably said the same thing when she likely wasn't around. Playing with her fingers as she realized she was probably waiting for some kind of answer. Her eyes still so unsure and frightened about all of this as she shifted uneasily from foot to foot.

"Was....washroom...m...ma'am," replied Kathleen quietly as she dropped her gaze to the floor.

Trying to keep up straight less Eva began to question her further about if there was anything wrong. Truthfully just about everything about this house was wrong as far as Kat was concerned. These 'rules' if you could call them that, weren't anything like she had ever known. It made working out things a lot more difficult and that was never a good thing. She always prided herself on being able to adapt pretty quickly, but this was just confusing. At least, at the other homes, she knew what was expected of her. Maybe not perfectly, but enough that she could get by and the rest came with intuition and observation. She, of course, didn't say any of this to Eva as the suddenly straighten posture was hard on her sore body. A combination from undergoing severe tension and the recent beating that was currently healing and that she'd just likely reopened again. Once more looking over towards the open doorway of her bedroom inviting her to return.

Truthfully, she was surprised nobody had wakened her up insisting to check on her back. Not that she would have liked that very much and probably would have tried to get out of it somehow. Regardless though, she definitely didn't want to deal with that right now even if it might help her sleep easier. Her breathing not quite calm, but it wasn't panicked either. At least, not just yet as she found the urge to dismiss herself, but once more propriety stopped her doing so. It was just simply so ingrained in her at this point despite the fact that none of her families had deserved such respect. A fact that she still hadn't quite gotten to grips with just yet. Flicking her gaze nervously behind her at the bathtub once more to avoid getting too close. Hoping that her 'mother' would accept the answer for what it was and let her return to her bedroom to sleep. Assuming that was allowed and she wasn't about to get punished for being out of her bed without permission.

 

[PunkPrince]

Kat spoke, and Eva wondered if Hugo had woke her. She had seemed so petrified in the bathroom earlier in the day, and she still looked so tired. Eva wondered how much rest she had actually gotten, especially with her odd decision to sleep on the ground.

“How’s your back?” Eva asked her. “Does it need cleaned again?” She didn’t approach Kat further, simply spoke in a gentle voice from across the hall. “If it really isn’t bothering you, I can leave you to get some rest. But, I’m sure you’d rest better if you actually slept in bed.” She cast her gaze down the staircase. “I’m sorry if Hugo woke you. He should be fine soon. He’s been having rough nights lately. He’ll calm down after a while.”

The boy had never slept particularly well. His sleep patterns were choppy and disjointed. Sometimes he slept all day. Other times he failed to get any rest at all, kept awake by nightmares and things he saw in the darkness. And apart from comforting him and reminding him to take his medicines, Eva often felt powerless to help him. She let out a sigh at the thought. He was with Kennedy now. She would remain with him until he fell asleep, as she always did when his anxieties began to haunt him.

 

[half-blood prince]

There it was, the question she had been hoping to avoid for the rest of the night if not the rest of her time here. Yes, the doctor at her last check-up had insisted she clean it at minimum twice a day, although more frequently would have been better. Yet, that would mean having someone clean it since she had come to see how difficult it would be for her to do it herself. Not a situation that Kat readily enjoyed putting herself in when she could avoid it. Even the doctor had been hard-pressed getting it clean before resulting in sedation to get it done. Pushing the thought away as she chewed that bottom lip of hers once more as she considered the question before her. Hoping if she kept her head down she could avoid giving off any signs of distress that maybe it 'might' need to be looked at. Was it wrong to not get it cleaned more regularly? Probably, but Kat didn't see any other choice in front of her. Nor did she really consider herself worthy of being cared for in such a manner. The others were their kids as far as Kat knew and they were the lucky ones, unlike her.

She was just a foster kid that would probably end up back in the system soon enough. With her current track record, it was bound to happen eventually so she really didn't bother getting her hopes up. At least her foster siblings lived here and didn't have to worry about being taken back. They could get as much care as they deserved. Pulling her focus back to the fact that Eva had asked her if her back was alright. In truth, it had been flaring up since she jerked herself awake from a nightmare earlier in the evening. Hitting the wall with her back likely disturbing any healing getting done. Not to mention sleeping on the floor wasn't exactly ideal either for good rest, but she didn't want to take the chance. She didn't wet the bed very often, mostly during thunderstorms and the odd night when she was having a really bad night for nightmares. She just didn't want to take the chance of ruining such nice things that would likely get taken away from her.

Swallowing thickly as she heard Eva pressing to see if she may be needed to have it cleaned again. They both knew that she did though, Eva never stepped forward and Kat never moved to show she was interested. Still eying the bedroom that was just within reach if she backed up quickly enough. Surprised that Eva was concerned for her as Kat's forehead creased with confusion yet again. Hearing her willing to leave her be if it didn't seem to bother her, suggesting it would be more productive to sleep in the bed rather than beside it. Not sure whether that was an order or a suggestion and decided to say nothing. Being quiet was a natural habit for Kat that it was hard remembering she could talk if she wished it. Although she blamed her tiredness for being more willing to interact right now. Hearing her apologize for Hugo waking her up, but she simply shrugged given it just as likely could have been her.

She knew she was still being waited on for an answer about her back, but Kat didn't know what to say. Lying normally didn't do her any good but neither did telling the truth. So really, she was stuck between a rock and a hard place at the moment. Glancing behind her at what little she could see of her back debating whether she should say anything or not. Glancing back to Eva warily as she shifted yet again before glancing back at the stairs. Settling for shaking her head even if it wasn't very convincing as she backed up to head to her room. Closing the door gently behind her taking a big breath she didn't know she was holding as it closed shut. Returning to her place knowing she couldn't outrun the questions and punishments forever. Moving back to her 'bed' once more eying the nice mattress once more before choosing her spot on the floor. Wincing in quiet pain as her back flared in pain, but she barely made a peep. It took a while as she debated whether Eva would get mad at her for dismissing herself. Eventually, though, Kat managed to find an uneasy sleep pattern once more despite her back and worries of what tomorrow might bring.

 

[PunkPrince]

Kennedy was the first one up the following morning. She edged herself out of bed as quietly as she could to avoid waking Eva, and headed down the stairs. Guess it's my turn for breakfast, she thought, a smile crossing her face as she caught sight of Hugo, awake and sitting up on the couch, absorbed in whatever Xbox game he was playing.

Kennedy reached out to give the boy a quick hug. "Hey, pipsqueak," she greeted. "Did you sleep all right?"
Hugo shrugged. "I slept," he answered before returning to his game. Kennedy grinned and gave him a light nudge as she passed him.
"Any breakfast suggestions?"

The boy was quiet for a moment. "Pancakes?"

"Pancakes it is," Kennedy said as she began rummaging through cabinets. "You still want peanut butter in yours?"
"Mm."

Distracted in her search, Kennedy didn't notice as Eva descended the stairs and came up behind her, wrapping her arms around Kennedy's waist and spinning her around to face her. "Hi," Eva greeted.
Kennedy grinned. "Good morning," she said, giving Eva a kiss on the cheek. "I didn't wake you up when I got up, did I?"
"Nah," Eva said, shaking her head and stepping back from Kennedy, who had entirely forgotten what she had been searching through the drawer for.

The pair glanced up as they heard footsteps descending the staircase. Jupiter appeared at the base of the stairs, appearing somewhat uncomfortable and tired. They had combed their hair down so it fell across their forehead, and Eva could see that their nails had recently been done, manicured and painted a brilliant shade of pink. They looked nice, but Eva knew that this wasn't necessarily the best sign, especially considering Jupiter's tiredness.

Jupiter often painted their nails, but the only time they ever looked this nice was when Jupiter was trying to distract themself. Eva knew they had been more dysphoric than usual lately, and she suspected that, perhaps, it was part of the reason they'd had such trouble sleeping lately. Jupiter raised a hand in a halfhearted wave, and drifted past them toward the refrigerator. Jupiter rooted around in the fridge for a moment before pulling out an energy drink and settling themself on the couch, sipping from the can in near-silence.

"Hey," Eva greeted them. "Rough night?"
Jupiter shrugged. "It is what it is," they mumbled.
"You want anything special in your pancakes?" Kennedy questioned.
"Not really."

Kennedy sighed and moved away from the stove for a moment, reaching out over the back of the couch to gently tousle Jupiter's hair. "Your nails look nice," she complimented gently. "That color looks good on you."

Jupiter gave a small smile in response, curling up in the corner of the couch. Kennedy leaned down to gently kiss Jupiter on the forehead before returning to the stove.

 

[half-blood prince]

It wasn't exactly an easy night for Kat in a new home, but she managed to get at least a few hours more after Hugo waking her up. Tossing and turning some and then thinking about what both Kennedy and Eva had said. They seemed to suggest that maybe it wasn't her that was the problem, but her family. Something she had never really considered or had to consider before. Sure, she always got taken away by the social worker, but she had never really attributed it to be because of them. Still, she had very little reason to believe otherwise and even if she could some habits were just too hard to break. A day of kindness did not erase the 8 years of abuse and neglect she had received. Eventually, she awoke just as the sun was starting to peek over the horizon even despite how tired she was. It was always this way for her because she was normally responsible for cooking breakfast in at least two of the homes. It was the only way to earn her keep since they had agreed to take her in after all as a small yawn escaped her lips. Running a hand through her hair as she glanced around reminding herself that she wasn't at the foster agency.

Wondering if she would be expected to cook here as well glancing around for some kind of clock, though she saw none. Which made her job a little harder as she was always told never to come out of her room until 6. Nervously, she pulled herself from the warm cocoon of blankets to cautiously poke her head around the corner. Her limbs stiff and sore from laying on the floor all night and her back was a good deal more painful too. Regretting that she hadn't done something for it last night or even partially taken care of the wounds herself. She considered maybe a shower provided she kept it cold so as to not to waste warm water, but refrained as she listened carefully. Her eyes on the closed door of her bedroom that had remained so since she returned to it. Only to lift her head when she heard someone moving about outside the door and descending the stairs. Clearly trying to avoid making as much noise as possible followed by another set of steps making her realize that she was too late. How was she ever going to earn her keep if she kept messing up like this?

Frowning as she considered what her plan was to do now although a part of her wanted to sleep some more. Her back hurt, she was still exhausted and she'd had a good deal of stress the other day. Not that stress was really that knew to Kat as she heard another set of steps going downstairs. Sighing softly knowing that sooner or later she was going to get called too. Moving to make up her shame of a bed once more not that there was any point. Slowly getting up once more as she went to change into the other set of clothing that her social worker had given her. Another pair of sweat pants and another shirt with the foster agency logo in black rather than navy this time. Running a hand through her hair as she reluctantly forced herself from the bedroom. Opening her door cautiously as she moved to the washroom first to relieve her bladder. Never lingering longer than she needed though she could tell her back had not faired well in the night. Some of the wounds bleeding through the bandages at some point in the night making her sigh softly.

She really didn't want to have to deal with being touched again, but she also knew infections weren't good either. She'd already dealt with a few of them over the years. Deciding it could wait at least until her family was done breakfast so as not to interrupt them. Wondering if she'd be able to have more food today but then again, she'd had more food than she really deserved last night. Tiptoeing out of the bathroom shutting the lights off as she went giving further pause to the steps. Debating whether she was better off in her room or coming out. Hesitantly lingering there before slowly making her way down them again. One step at a time, always ready to jump back as necessary. Making her way downstairs once more figuring maybe she could help with whatever they were making and get rewarded for good behavior. Her walk was stiff and cautionary ready to move at a moment's notice as she heard some chatter going on.

 

[PunkPrince]

Ronan suddenly came bouncing out of his bedroom and darted down the stairs, chirping a quick hello to Kat as he ran past her before launching himself over the banister. "Good morning!" he greeted, snickering as just about everyone in the room jumped and turned to look at him. Eva had stiffened for a moment, and her shoulders relaxed as her gaze settled on her son. "Good morning, Starshine," she laughed. "Please stop doing that," she told him. "You could hurt yourself."

Ronan grinned, brushing against Eva as he passed her, before launching himself over the back of the couch with the same intensity he had used for the banister. He landed beside Hugo, who appeared relatively undisturbed. Jupiter on the other hand, who had returned their attention to their phone only moments before, let out a startled yelp before fixing their brother with an annoyed glare and whacking him over the head with the nearest pillow. Ronan squeaked and scrambled off the couch.

"I already hurt myself," Ronan announced, holding up his right hand. A cut ran across his palm, blood beginning to seep from the wound.

Kennedy looked over at him, and breathed in a long, exhausted sounding sigh before walking over to the boy and taking him by the wrist to inspect the injury. "It's not deep," she stated, tugging him over toward the sink. "Rinse it off and put a bandage over it and you'll be fine." She drifted past him again, pausing to glance back over her shoulder as the boy obliged and began to rinse his injured palm.

"If I catch you working on that dress without work gloves on again I'm going to hide it from you," she threatened. She didn't mean it, of course, she was just exasperated by her son's carelessness. "You can't work with broken glass like that and expect it not to cut you when you haven't dulled it down."

"Sorry," Ronan apologized as he bandaged his hand. "It's almost finished. I thought I could dull out the last few pieces myself. I couldn't find my gloves." The boy seemed unbothered by his injured hand, his excitement over the dress occupying his mind instead. The dress in question was a slimming black dress, bedecked with a spiral pattern of triangular pieces of broken mirror. He had been working to dull down the sharper edges, but had cut himself on an unfinished piece of the glass.

Eva's gaze had remained on the staircase, as she'd caught the sound of light footsteps starting and stopping. "Hello, Kat," she called gently. "How's your back? Want anything special in your pancakes?"

 

[half-blood prince]

Kat yelped in absolute fright nearly falling from the stairs when Ronan raced by her on the way to greet everyone. If she had thought this day might go any better, she was starting to think otherwise. Taking several long minutes to calm herself down after realizing she wasn't in any immediate danger. Frowning as she really didn't want another trip to the hospital. Yet, she didn't say anything as she tried to settle down on the stairs. Trying to force herself away from the flashbacks that were threatening to overwhelm her. God, she hated when people snuck up on her for no real reason. She even considered going back upstairs since at least there, she wasn't going to be a target. Clinging tightly to the bannister to avoid falling as she reigned in her panic. Pulled from her circling thoughts by Eva's voice calling up to her. Damn, how did they always seem to know where she was?

Well if she had thought about going back upstairs, it was not happening now. Waiting a few more minutes to compose herself as she hesitantly made her way down the last set of stairs now. Seeing Eva watching her making her duck her head and stiffen up just that little bit more. Wondering what sort of trouble she'd see herself into today. Not that Eva sounded particularly upset right now which was lucky for her. Her eyes shifting between the woman and the two siblings talking to each other. Swallowing unsurely as she tried to keep an eye on everyone to avoid being jumped on again. A surprisingly more difficult task as she shifted uneasily. Her body still shaking a little as she kept her distance from Eva and just lingered uncertainly in the main hallway. Debating whether or not to head into the kitchen now or if she should be doing something else to keep out of the way. Noticing that one of the brothers seemed to be watching something on the tv, but she didn't venture any closer to see it.

Pulled from her thoughts once more as Eva asked how her back was making her uneasy. Did she know that Kat had hurt herself during the night? Feeling her breathing hitch at the question as she didn't know what to say. Feeling the prick of tears as she didn't mean to hurt herself again. Maybe the first time, but surely she wouldn't be punished again for it? Then again, she didn't exactly get punished the last time either as she seemed to cower against the wall. It was such a simple question, but nothing was ever so simple far as she was concerned. Taken aback by the offering of pancakes making her tilt her head again. She screws up one day and yet they were offering her spaghetti and now pancakes? This was really confusing for poor Kat and she didn't know whether it was some sick joke or a genuine offer. Frustrated in herself as well as she looked to the kitchen then back to the floor.

What was there to say? What could she say that wouldn't result in punishment? Was there even a right answer to these questions. Not realizing that she was working herself up into another panic attack so soon. She may have been able to overlook it had not a loud sound came from the tv that sounded like thunder.
Her eyes widening in an instant as she tore from the spot where she'd remained with a loud 'no' before taking off for the bedroom. Surprisingly fast despite her injuries as she raced off to hide. Racing off in pure terror as she quickly ducked into her room and hid inside of her closet. Shrinking to the far back as she started rocking, shaking quite badly as the panic attack took over now. Feeling something staining her underwear as she tried to block out everything else. Flashes of a much young Kat in a crib crying for a mother that couldn't hear her. Remembering someone lifting her and carrying her away....the flash of something in her mother's hand. The storm....she'd always hated storms because of that night.