you didn't want to let the work pile overwhelm you, but it was hard not to when it seemed to grow faster than you could chip away at it. of course, you tried to hide it from ellie — she already had enough on her plate, and the last thing you wanted was to add your stress to hers.
still, when you came through the door after your class, you weren't really yourself. more like a shell, stretched too thin and running on empty. ellie noticed right away — the way your shoulders sagged, the way you didn't bother to kick your shoes off, the way your greeting came out flat and monotone.
"c'mere," ellie murmured, guiding you gently toward the kitchen table. you let her, far too tired to protest once you sank into the chair. she crouched in front of you, her hands sure and steady as she tugged at your laces, slipping your shoes off one by one. the simple act made your throat tighten, a lump rising that you couldn't swallow down. ellie's care was too sweet.
"don't worry, baby," she whispered, her voice as soft as silk. "gonna make you some tea." she rose from her kneeling position and leaned forward, pressing her warm lips to your forehead. all you could do was let your eyes flutter shut and allow the warmth of her kiss to spread through you.
she moved quickly, filling a pot with water before setting it on the stove, the metal clattering against the burner. you watched her, your own body unable to move from sheer exhaustion. it was strangely comforting just to see her operate.
soon the air grew foggy with steam, bubbles knocking against the pot's sides in a steady chorus. ellie slipped your favorite tea bags into the pot.
"thank you," you murmured, your voice quieter than you expected. it felt like you should've already thanked her for going out of her way for you, so you did it now. she let out a soft chuckle as she poured the steaming tea into your favorite mug. "for taking care of my baby? don't thank me." her voice grew closer until she was right in front of you, setting the drink down.
your eyes lingered on her face for a moment before dropping to the mug. you willed yourself to move, to reach for it, but your body wouldn't listen. a sigh slipped from your lips.
"too hot?" she asked, concern thick in her tone.
"no, no," you reassured quickly. "i'm just.. so tired." the words came out like an apology, as if it was unreasonable to admit it. ellie's lips curved, not quite a smile, but something soft and understanding. she stood again and grabbed a spoon. "i've got you," she said simply.
then she dipped the spoon into the mug, scooping up a small swirl of tea. she lifted it carefully, blowing across the surface until the steam faded. when she finally raised it to your lips, you leaned forward just enough, letting the warmth slide over your tongue.
you couldn't thank the universe enough for sending you the most patient and gentle girlfriend. ellie always reminded you that there wasn't a need to carry the weight of the world alone, because she was always there to aid you. always.
