"You're assuming I would take this to a physician. They would put me on bed rest for weeks I could not afford to lose. I just need one week, no work, and ice." She should take longer and she knew it, but that was time lost. Technique left to rust and she can't fall behind. As it stood she held Marie back enough. Anything more would be unacceptable.

She pulled her feet up and curled her arms around her knees. Set her chin on top and blinked down at him, tired. "I've endured worse."

Something she'll say more often in the future.

"There are standards and expectations. I can't just...leave them. They're my blood, they're all I have. What else should I do?"