(Kiefer POV)
When I saw her, my heart clenched. jayjay was on the ground, trembling, her fingers pressed against the blood on her head.
Her trauma had returned, and this time, it was more dangerous than ever. The sight of blood was like a storm in her mind—chaotic, violent, impossible to reach.
I couldn't let anyone else near her. Not Percy, not Angelo, not even Section E. Only I could approach her… carefully, slowly.
"Jayjay… it's me," I whispered, moving closer, voice trembling with my own fear.
She flinched violently at my approach. "Stay… stay away!" she cried, hands flailing.
I stopped, letting her breathe, my chest tight. "I'm not going anywhere," I said softly, kneeling beside her, my hand hovering near hers. "You're safe. Just… let me help you."
Tears streaked her face. "I… I can't…"
I bit back my own pain, whispering, "I know… but I'll protect you. Always."
Slowly, she let me guide her to a nearby bench. Her trembling hands clutched mine as I held her close, murmuring reassurances.
Soon, an ambulance arrived. I stayed by her side as the paramedics carefully moved her onto the stretcher. Her small hand found mine instinctively.
In the hospital, they cleaned her wound, covering it carefully. I stayed by her side, whispering softly, brushing hair from her face, ensuring she knew she wasn't alone.
Her trauma was triggered, yes—but in that moment, she wasn't alone. I was there. And I wouldn't let her face it without me.