I nodded back at Jenny, trying to keep my expression neutral. "Hey, Jenny. Just checking to see if you're okay."
Tanya looked up from her task and gave me a brief smile. "We're managing, but it's definitely a mess. Thanks for offering to drive."
"No problem," I replied, stepping further into the room. "Let's get this sorted and get Jenny the help she needs."
Amanda glanced at me, her usual disdain softened just a bit by the situation. "We appreciate it, Terry. Really."
With everyone working together, we managed to get Jenny dressed and into my car. The drive to the clinic was tense, filled with Jenny's occasional groans and the whispered reassurances from Tanya and Lila. I kept my focus on the road, trying to push aside the bizarre turn my night had taken.
Upon arrival, the clinic staff quickly took over, rushing Jenny into an examination room. I collapsed into one of the waiting room chairs, exhausted and mentally drained. Amanda and Emily sat beside me, both looking equally worn out.
"Thanks, Terry," Amanda said softly. "I know we don't always get along, but you really came through tonight."
I nodded, too tired to respond with more than a grunt. Emily leaned forward, resting her elbows on her knees. "Let's just hope Jenny's okay."
We sat in silence for what felt like hours, waiting for news. Eventually, a nurse came out to inform us that Jenny was stable and being treated for an infection. Relief washed over me, and I could see the tension easing from Amanda and Emily's faces as well.
"Thank god," Emily whispered. "She's going to be alright."
"Yeah," I agreed, feeling a sense of camaraderie despite the night's chaos. "We all did what we could."
As we headed back to the car, I couldn't help but think that, strange as it was, this experience had brought us all a little closer together. Maybe, just maybe, things would be a bit less tense in the house from now on.