"Abby, I don't know about this."
"What? I'll be fine, you'll see."
I ran an agitated hand back through my damp hair, watching her tidy up. She made a few trips back and forth to the bathroom, emptying the basin and bucket she'd used in washing my hair.
"You worry too much," Abby called from inside the bathroom.
"Aye, I do," I retorted. "Seems at least one of us has to."
"Hey, you started this," she reminded as she emerged. "Here, I'll take those."
I handed her the towel and shampoo bottle. Then I caught her gently by the elbow, making her pause.
"I'm serious,milseán." I moved my hand to her cheek. "I don't want to see you hurt. "
"I'm going to be fine," she said, putting her hand over mine with a smile. "I'll be careful, I promise. But we have to at least try."
I let my han
