Disclaimer: Operations and Madeline belong to LFN Productions, Warner Bros., and USA Network. No infringement is intended.
In Need
by Keri
He stared at her for a long while, not speaking. She looked to be near tears.
He wanted to bridge the space between them, to take her into his arms and kiss her hair and tell her everything would be all right, that he was there if she needed him.
But Madeline would never need him. No, she was stronger than that, more independent. He wanted to tell her that being strong also meant knowing when to ask for help. But he couldn't. Sadly, he turned to leave.
"Paul?" came her fragile voice. He stopped. "Please stay. I need you..."